Deloitte has partnered with the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers to host the first Africa Automotive Forum, aiming to explore the potential of Africa's automotive industry. The virtual forum will discuss enabling government policy, regional value chains, and driving affordability and mobility solutions. Key speakers include Ghana's Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, and industry experts from organizations like Nissan, BOSCH, and Toyota. The forum seeks to address challenges and opportunities in Africa's automotive sector, with a focus on legislative support, economic benefits, and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

The article discusses the perception of indiscipline in Ghana, arguing that it is not a trait unique to Ghanaians but a global issue exacerbated by poor leadership and weak systems. The author emphasizes that discipline is taught and should be instilled from a young age through a national approach. The article criticizes Ghanaian leadership for failing to enforce laws and create robust systems, instead blaming citizens for the country's problems. The recent partial lockdown in Ghana due to COVID-19 is used as an example of leadership failure, highlighting the struggles of the underprivileged and the lack of government support for them. The writer suggests that indiscipline could be a source of revenue if fines were enforced properly. The pandemic is seen as an opportunity for Ghana to reassess and improve its governance, health system, and economy.

Kwabena Bobbie Ansah, host of 'The Citizen Show' on Accra FM, was arrested by individuals believed to be National Security operatives after his radio program. The arrest may be linked to a Facebook post criticizing the judiciary and the Chief Justice. Ansah is the third journalist arrested recently, following Oheneba Boamah Bennie of Power FM and Captain Smart of Onua TV. Mensah Thompson of ASEPA was also granted bail after being charged with publishing false news. These incidents have raised concerns about a potential culture of silence versus the need for responsible journalism in Ghana.

Dzifa Attivor, former Ghanaian Minister of Transport, passed away at 65. She served as Minister until her resignation in 2015 over a bus re-branding controversy. Attivor had a diverse career, including roles at the Bank of Ghana and founding an NGO. She was a member of the National Democratic Congress and held various political positions, including Deputy Minister for Transport. She also chaired the ECOWAS Medical Village project, aimed at establishing a hospital complex in West Africa.

Reverend Isaac Owusu Bempah, a controversial preacher and Head Pastor of the Glorious Word Power Ministries International, was hospitalized at the Police Hospital in Accra after being remanded for a week by a Circuit Court. He faces charges including offensive conduct, threat of death, and assault of public officers. The court's decision allows the police more time for investigation. The arrest followed the creation and circulation of videos containing threats and the brandishing of a weapon. Two other suspects are still at large, while injured police personnel have received medical treatment.

Two organizers and one artist of the 'Chale Wote' street art festival in Accra were arrested by the Accra Central Police during the virtual event at Ussher Fort. The police allegedly caused damage and disrupted vendors. The reason for the arrests remains unclear, with suspicions of political interference. The festival, which was shifted to a virtual format due to COVID-19, continued amidst these disruptions.

President Akufo-Addo of Ghana has appointed Commissioner of Police George Akuffo Dampare as the acting Inspector General of Police, starting August 1, 2021. The current IGP, James Oppong-Boanuh, will proceed on terminal leave from the same date. Dampare, known for his professionalism and integrity, could become the youngest IGP in the 4th Republic if confirmed. He has a distinguished career in the Ghana Police Service and was honored by the Ghana Journalists Association in 2018 for his excellent public service.

George Kojo Nenyi Andah, former MP for Awutu Senya West and Deputy Communications Minister, has been installed as the acting Akyempim Odefey of the Senya Beraku Traditional Area. The installation ceremony took place on June 8, 2021. Andah, who has a notable background in marketing and leadership, was nominated by the Royal Akyempim Family House and has expressed his commitment to positively influence the Senya Beraku community. He has previously been recognized for his contributions to MTN Ghana's Mobile Money service and has held significant roles in other telecommunications companies before entering politics.

The strike by the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and other regions has been called off following a meeting with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health. The strike began due to the hospital's decision to keep two medical specialists in key positions at the Laboratory Services Directorate. Despite an injunction order from the National Labour Commission, the strike continued until the recent resolution. The Ghana Medical Association opposed the lab scientists' actions and demanded the reinstatement of laboratory physicians.

LEDing Medical Laboratory, an accredited COVID-19 testing center in Ghana, refutes allegations of issuing a fake negative COVID-19 test report for a traveler. The laboratory's Public Relations Officer, Dr. Maame Fua Antwi-Gyamfi, clarified that the fake report did not originate from their facility, highlighting security features on their certificates to verify authenticity. The laboratory is collaborating with state agencies and the Ghana Police Service to investigate the fraud. The public is urged to avoid engaging in fraudulent activities related to COVID-19 testing.

Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu, emphasized the importance of the Free Senior High School (SHS) program, urging Ghanaians to utilize it for their children's education. He dismissed claims that the program is politically motivated, asserting its value for Ghana's future. Afenyo-Markin also inaugurated a library in Atekyedo, encouraging the community to use it to gain knowledge. The library was named after Nana Amponsah the First, and the community expressed gratitude for the project.

DIONS Entrepreneurship Ecosystem has started enrolling 1,600 young e-commerce entrepreneurs across Ghana for its 2020/2021 cohort. Each month, 100 individuals will be selected for practical support, including equity funding and start-up capital of $1,000. The program, launching on August 31, 2020, will also waive subscription and membership fees until participants earn a four-figure income from their businesses.

SafeCare has launched the SafeCare4Covid app to aid healthcare providers in managing Covid-19 patients safely and effectively. The app, developed with WHO guidelines, allows self-assessment of safety protocols compliance and identifies gaps in facility preparedness. It is free and globally accessible, aiming to reduce infection risks while maintaining health services. PharmAccess, supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and partners like MSDforMothers and Achmea Foundation, have facilitated the app's development. SafeCare has conducted nearly 6000 quality assessments in sub-Saharan Africa.

Deputy MASLOC CEO Hajia Abibata Shanni Mahama Zakariah refutes allegations of using state funds for political campaigning and vote-buying, asserting that she is not a custodian of state money and could not have used public funds for her campaign. She criticizes Corruption Watch for publishing what she claims are baseless accusations and emphasizes that the loan disbursements followed standard procedures. She also clarifies that the beneficiaries of the loans were not chosen on political grounds and denies any conflict of interest or abuse of office.

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has experienced a 95% revenue loss due to the COVID-19 induced ban on international passenger travel. Director-General Simon Allotey highlighted the severe financial impact, including pay cuts and halted recruitment. Despite some revenue from cargo and specialized flights, it is insufficient to cover expenses. The GCAA has implemented a 50% salary cut arrangement with the workers' union, promising refunds when the situation normalizes. Future measures being discussed by the International Civil Aviation Organization include issuing COVID-19 passes and mandatory quarantines, which may discourage travel due to increased costs.

The African Coalition in Solidarity with the People of Uganda has condemned the arrest and alleged torture of Ugandan MP Zaake Francis Butebi by Uganda's police and security forces. Butebi, a coordinator for Bobi Wine's People Power movement, was detained for distributing food during the COVID-19 lockdown, an act President Museveni has declared could be charged as attempted murder. The Coalition, along with local activists and presidential hopeful Bobi Wine, demands Butebi's release and criticizes the government's selective food distribution and lack of transparency. The statement is supported by various organizations, including Ghana's Economic Fighters League and the National Union of Ghana Students.

Citi TV in Ghana is launching a COVID-19 awareness campaign using mobile vans to educate communities in Accra starting April 9, 2020. The initiative, led by Managing Director Samuel Attah-Mensah, aims to complement government efforts in public health education. Ghana's COVID-19 cases stand at 313 with six deaths and three recoveries. The campaign addresses gaps in public understanding of health protocols and aims to prevent non-compliance with social distancing and lockdown measures. The government is conducting mass testing, and the President has extended the border closure by two weeks.

Citi TV, in partnership with waste management firm Zoomlion, is undertaking a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative to fumigate selected university campuses in the Greater Accra Region. This effort aims to ensure the campuses are safe and clean for use when academic activities resume. The initiative is in response to the President's call for support in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. The beneficiary institutions include the University of Ghana, University of Professional Studies, Central University, and Pentecost University. Ghana's current COVID-19 case count stands at 313, with six deaths and three recoveries. The government has implemented a partial lockdown and extended border closures to curb the virus's spread.

Bright Appiah, Executive Director of Child Rights International, praised President Akufo-Addo's social protection programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable and frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Appiah highlighted the President's commitment to the welfare of these groups and urged state agencies, the private sector, and NGOs to fully implement and support these initiatives.

The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) donated various protective equipment to the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) to aid in combating the spread of COVID-19. The donation included items such as Veronica buckets, hand sanitizers, and face masks. The Director General of GMA, Thomas Kofi Alonsi, emphasized the importance of supporting transport unions due to their role in moving people across the country. The donation was well-received by GPRTU's National Chairman, Kwame Kumah, who called for more contributions from other organizations and individuals. Ghana has recorded 195 confirmed COVID-19 cases and is under lockdown in major cities like Accra and Kumasi.

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) anticipates a 15% reduction in fuel prices by March 15, following a significant drop in global crude prices and the stability of the cedi. The NPA's CEO, Hassan Tampuli, emphasized the need for due process and criticized premature calls for immediate price reductions. The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have called for price cuts to reflect global trends. The article also highlights the government's efforts to manage the petroleum sector and reduce taxes, crediting President Nana Akufo-Addo's administration for its prudent policies. The global oil price slump is attributed to Saudi Arabia's price war with Russia amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Unilever Ghana Limited, in partnership with One-On-One Foundation, has launched the sixth season of the Schools’ Sanitation Inspection Tour in Accra. The initiative, supported by Unilever's brands like VIM, Rexona, Key Brilliant, and Domestos, aims to improve sanitation and hygiene in Ghanaian schools. The project aligns with Unilever’s Sustainable Living Plan and will cover 26 senior high schools over 26 weeks. The initiative has received praise from local leaders, including the Member of Parliament for Techiman South, Henry Yeboah.

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Cynthia Mamle Morrison, urges traditional rulers to work with the Ghana Police Service to address crimes like defilement, rape, and human trafficking. She emphasizes the importance of reporting such cases to the police rather than handling them traditionally. The minister also highlights government social intervention programs and expresses concern over the rise of sports betting among youth. District Chief Executive Isaac Akomaning Asamoah encourages participation in the upcoming Ghana card registration to aid in national development.

Siemens has signed a €250 million Memorandum of Understanding with Ghana's GRIDCo to enhance the country's energy infrastructure. The agreement aims to upgrade Ghana's transmission infrastructure, improve grid capacity, and support power exports to neighboring countries. Siemens will also contribute to vocational training and education in engineering disciplines. The partnership is part of Ghana's broader strategy to drive economic and social transformation under President Nana Akufo-Addo's leadership.

Nana Kwame Bediako, CEO of Wonda World Properties, has filed a case at the High Court to place an injunction on the AfroNation concert, claiming ownership of the land designated for the event. He denies attempting to sabotage the concert, emphasizing his goal is to ensure respect for African property rights. Despite attempts to resolve the issue amicably, the AfroNation organizers did not officially notify him or agree to his proposal for mutual endorsement. The concert, part of Ghana's Year of Return events, is scheduled to feature prominent African artists.

The Coalition of NGOs Against MINING ATEWA (CONAMA) has challenged the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation's (GIADEC) claims that bauxite mining in Atewa Forest will not harm the environment. CONAMA argues that GIADEC's figures on bauxite reserves are misleading and that mining will cause irreversible damage to the forest's biodiversity and water sources. The coalition also criticizes GIADEC's stakeholder engagement strategy and transparency, calling for the Atewa Forest to be excluded from the bauxite development plan. The article highlights the potential negative impacts on local communities and the environment, questioning the economic benefits promised by GIADEC.

The UN’s Economic and Social Council has appointed Israel and Ghana to co-chair its Science, Technology and Innovation forum, marking Ghana as the first African nation to hold this position. The two countries will lead discussions and activities focusing on advancing women in science, agricultural technologies, and environmental innovation. This appointment highlights the ongoing collaboration between Israel and Ghana in various sectors, including agriculture, health, and cyber security. The Israeli Innovation Authority will support start-up collaborations between the two nations, and the Embassy of Israel in Ghana is actively involved in developing the innovation ecosystem through various initiatives and partnerships.

Rev. Steve Mensah, General Overseer of the Charismatic Evangelistic Ministry in Accra, Ghana, has launched the 'Ability Village' project to support persons living with disabilities. The village, to be built on a 2,000-acre land in Ningo, will provide free or subsidized medical care, education, vocational training, and housing. The project, estimated at $85 million, was praised by the Chairman of the Ghana National Council for Persons Living with Disability, Mr. Yaw Debrah, and supported by various dignitaries including former President John Mahama. The initiative builds on the church's 'Day of Help' program and aims to create a modern community for persons with disabilities.

The article discusses the evolution of mobile networks from 2G to the upcoming 5G, emphasizing the benefits and transformative potential of 5G technology. It highlights the HUAWEI Mate 20 X (5G) as a leading device capable of operating on both Non-standalone (NSA) and Standalone (SA) 5G networks. The phone's features, such as its dual-chipset design with Kirin 980 and Balong 5000 for high-speed connectivity, large OLED FHD+ display, long-lasting battery with TUV Rheinland certification, and HUAWEI SuperCool technology, are presented as reasons why it should be the first choice for consumers interested in 5G smartphones.

The Chamber of Independent Power Producers and Bulk Consumers (CIPDIB) warns of imminent power outages if the Power Distribution Services (PDS) does not settle its substantial debt to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) within seven days. CIPDIB urges the government and the Millennium Development Authority (MiDA) to ensure PDS adheres to best business practices and respects Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). The statement highlights the financial strain on IPPs, which could lead to plant shutdowns and job losses, and calls for depoliticization and transparency in the power sector.

China's Ambassador to Ghana, Shi Ting Wang, expressed strong support for Ghana's One District One Factory (1D1F) industrialization policy, highlighting significant Chinese investments in the manufacturing sector, such as KEDA Ceramics. During President Akufo-Addo's visit to the Twyford Ceramics Factory, the Ambassador praised the policy and committed to encouraging more Chinese investments. The factory, which sources over 95% of its raw materials locally, is expected to significantly contribute to Ghana's economy by creating jobs and generating tax revenue.

Independent Power Producers (IPPs) in Ghana, under the Chamber of Independent Power Producers, Distributors and Bulk Consumers (CIPDIB), have reversed their decision to shut down their plants due to non-payment of debts by the Power Distribution Services (PDS) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The IPPs had threatened to shut down their plants if the $700 million debt was not paid within two weeks. Following media attention and stakeholder engagement, ECG has made some payments, and further commitments have been made to structure future payments. CIPDIB appreciates the efforts of all stakeholders, including the government, industry players, and the media, in resolving this critical issue and calls for continued engagement to ensure stable power supply in Ghana.

Lawal Tamimu, the District Chief Executive for Sawla-Tuna-Kalba, is upset over a forged letter that falsely announced a visit by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The letter, which was not on official letterhead and contained a signature not matching Tamimu's, was circulated on social media and discussed in traditional media. Tamimu, who was away in Tamale at the time, has referred the matter to the police for investigation. Some residents have called for his dismissal, while others support him and condemn the forgery as criminal.

Professor Felix Nikoi Hammond, Chairman of the Governing Council of Dominion University College, commends the Ghanaian government for the free SHS policy but criticizes the current funding disbursement model. He proposes a Per Student Budgetary Allocation (PSBA) model to give students more freedom in choosing schools, whether state or private, thereby fostering competition and improving educational quality. The article highlights the potential benefits of this model in enhancing school choice and quality.

The May 9 Foundation commemorated the 18th anniversary of the Accra Sports Stadium disaster with Ramadan prayers and donations at the Kumasi Central Mosque. Herbert Mensah, former Chairman of Asante Kotoko, led the event, honoring the 126 football fans who died in the 2001 stampede. The event included donations from sponsors like Gino, Sunda International, and Interplast. Mensah praised the Islamic and traditional leaders of Kumasi for their respect towards the victims. Despite the tragedy, no police or football officials have been held accountable for the disaster.

The Embassy of Israel celebrated six decades of Israel-Ghana relations with a series of cultural and educational events, including a major classical music concert featuring Israeli and Ghanaian musicians. The celebration highlighted the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations, with key figures expressing optimism about future cooperation in various sectors. Workshops on classical music and women empowerment were also significant parts of the event, aiming to foster cultural exchange and support for aspiring women leaders.

Residents of Glefe in the Greater Accra Region praised the Amlalo Charity Foundation for providing food and clothing to over 2,000 people during the 'Operation feed 2000+ Reloaded' event. The initiative, supported by various companies and volunteers, included meals, drinks, clothing, and entertainment for children. The foundation, led by Ing. Bernard Lemawu, aims to continue its philanthropic efforts inspired by Lemawu's grandmother, Henrietta Adjoa Amlalo Lamptey.

Ghana's medical drone delivery project, which supplies essential drugs and blood to health facilities, has been commended for its impact on healthcare delivery, especially in remote areas. Alhaji Umar Farouk Aliu Mahama praised the project at the 9th Annual Oxford Africa Conference, highlighting its significance in providing universal access to life-saving medicines. He also acknowledged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's support in achieving these milestones. The article also touches on Farouk Aliu Mahama's background and previous engagements, including his speech at the UK Parliament during Black History Month.

The Western Regional Head of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Emmanuel Narh, has been summoned to the national headquarters following his controversial comments about not issuing licenses to Rastafarians due to alleged drug abuse. The DVLA CEO, Kwasi Agyeman Busia, apologized for Narh's remarks, emphasizing that the DVLA does not discriminate based on religion. The Rastafarian Council of Ghana has demanded Narh's removal and may petition the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) if no action is taken. The DVLA plans to use this incident to reinforce non-discriminatory practices among its staff.

The International Federation for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, in collaboration with Medlab Ghana Ltd, Synlab, and the University of Ghana, supported by Sysmex and BD, completed research to establish context-based reference intervals for clinical test results. Led by Emeritus Professor Kiyoshi Ichihara, the research involved five African countries and aims to provide more accurate diagnosis and treatment by considering local factors. The project, which began in 2012, has culminated in published papers recommending global standards for setting reference intervals. Key figures from the University of Ghana and Medlab Ghana expressed optimism about the adoption of the research results.

Hafiz Tijani, the Ashanti Regional correspondent for Citi FM and Citi TV, has been shortlisted for the maiden Ashanti Media Awards by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA). The awards aim to honor journalists in the Ashanti Region, with Tijani entering in the Environmental Sanitation and Hygiene and Agriculture categories. The event, scheduled for May 31, 2019, will recognize excellence in various journalistic fields. The GJA received 99 entries from 11 media houses, and the awards committee, chaired by Johnson Gyampo, praised the high standards of the submissions. The awards also highlighted the need for greater female participation.

Sanford World Clinics has introduced a 24-hour maternity service in Ghana to combat maternal and neonatal deaths due to inadequate healthcare access. The tragic story of Marriama, who died along with her baby due to the lack of available maternity services, underscores the urgency of this initiative. Dr. Benjamin Taylor, President of Sanford World Clinics, emphasized the importance of extending essential health services to Ghanaians. Sanford has also achieved level 4 SafeCare accreditation, indicating a commitment to international healthcare standards. The partnership with PharmAccess and the Ghana Health Service is expected to yield positive results, with the La Nkantanan Municipal Assembly expressing optimism about reaching zero maternal mortality.

Umaru Sanda Amadu recounts his experiences traveling through the United States as part of the Edward Murrow project under the US Department of State's International Visitors Leadership Program. He reflects on the diversity and complexity of American society, drawing parallels to a dish of 'waakye' and the animated movie 'Zootopia'. Sanda shares his observations on American infrastructure, culture, and the volunteerism spirit. He also discusses the challenges and benefits of Ghana's development, comparing it to the US. The article highlights the importance of unity and growth despite differences, and the author's hope for Ghana to achieve similar progress.

Global Media Alliance (GMA) won the Best Agency in Internal Communications at the Golden World Awards organized by the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) in Barcelona. The award recognized GMA's innovative #YVENGERS campaign, which engaged over 4,000 young Ghanaians on Twitter and strengthened team bonds within the company. CEO Ernest Boateng and YFM Programmes Manager Eddy Blay expressed pride and dedicated the award to their staff and audience. The IPRA Golden World Awards honor excellence in Public Relations globally.

Global Media Alliance (GMA) won the Best Agency in Internal Communications at the Golden World Awards organized by the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) in Barcelona. The award recognized GMA's innovative #YVENGERS campaign through its subsidiary YFM, which engaged over 4,000 young Ghanaians on social media. CEO Ernest Boateng and Programmes Manager Eddy Blay expressed pride and dedicated the award to their staff and audience. The IPRA Golden World Awards celebrate excellence in Public Relations globally.

The article narrates Umaru Sanda's 10-day journey through the northern regions of Ghana, highlighting the stark contrast between the perceived and actual conditions of these areas. Sanda's travel reveals significant underdevelopment, poor infrastructure, and the daily struggles of the local populace. The narrative underscores the challenges faced by these communities, including inadequate transportation, healthcare, and basic amenities, while critiquing the government's role in addressing these issues. The journey also touches on cultural experiences and the resilience of the people in these deprived regions.

Isco scored three goals in Spain's 6-1 victory over Argentina in a friendly match, highlighting Spain's strength as they remain unbeaten in 18 games under coach Julen Lopetegui. Despite the absence of Lionel Messi due to injury, Argentina's defense struggled, with Jorge Sampaoli needing to address their vulnerabilities. Spain's performance, including contributions from Diego Costa, Thiago Alcantara, and Iago Aspas, positions them as a serious contender for the upcoming World Cup, while Argentina faces challenges in preparation.

Former South African President Jacob Zuma is set to face prosecution for 16 charges of corruption, including fraud, racketeering, and money laundering, as confirmed by Chief Prosecutor Shaun Abrahams. The charges are linked to a 30 billion rand arms deal from the late 1990s. French arms supplier Thales will also face charges. Zuma, who denies the allegations, was forced to resign by the ANC following multiple no-confidence votes. The trial is expected to be lengthy, with Zuma known for his tenacity in legal battles. The Guptas and Zuma deny any wrongdoing related to separate allegations of exploiting state contracts.

UK-based Ghanaian broadcaster and music minister Daniel Dadson has released his third worship song titled 'Wonderful God' on Valentine's Day as a gift to lovers of spirit-filled music. The song, recorded live, celebrates the greatness of God. Dadson, with a background in music since 1995 and radio since 1998, has served in various music groups and choirs in Ghana and the UK. He holds a degree in Media and Communications and has released two previous tracks. 'Wonderful God' was produced in collaboration with KODA at KODED Studios in Takoradi after Dadson was inspired during a flight from London to Ghana. The song is available in digital stores worldwide.

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has called on the media to exercise restraint in investigative and anti-corruption reporting, emphasizing adherence to ethical values and the GJA code of Ethics. This appeal follows allegations against the Jospong Group, which denied claims of inflating contract costs. The GJA highlighted the potential reputational and economic harm of unverified reports and urged journalists to avoid media trials, focusing instead on fairness, balance, and accuracy.