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Check FAQAbout Francisca
Francisca Kakra Forson is a distinguished Ghanaian freelance journalist with a robust career in both local and international media. She has contributed to prominent news outlets such as TRT World, CBC News, AFP, VOA (Africa) News, France 24, and West Africa Democracy Radio in Dakar, Senegal. Forson's reporting has delved into critical issues including gender equality, political violence, elections, and economic challenges in Ghana and the West African region. Her work has shed light on the experiences of influential Ghanaian women, the nation's security concerns, and the socio-economic implications of presidential and parliamentary elections. Before embarking on her freelance journey, Forson developed her journalistic prowess at Joynews, Ghana's leading English news media organization, and served as the Acting News Editor at Metro TV Ghana, where she was instrumental in reinvigorating the Metronews brand. She has a track record of producing and anchoring major radio and news bulletins, as well as hosting current affairs and legal TV shows. In addition to her journalism, Forson is a skilled PR consultant and has provided her expertise to organizations such as the Institute for Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) and USAID. She also played a significant role as Corporate Affairs Manager at the Ghana Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors. Forson's academic credentials include a Master of Communications and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Ghana, as well as a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of London. Her commitment to social issues is reflected in her involvement with UNICEF's campaigns and her participation in the Queen's Young Leaders project in 2016, where she promoted public education on civic rights. Her reporting continues to underscore her dedication to democracy, education, and gender equality, while her media presence and PR work highlight her multifaceted expertise in shaping public discourse and policy.
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Witnessing Progress in Education and Inclusion in Ghana's Schools
The article recounts the author's visit to Alama Basic School in Sandema, Upper East Region of Ghana, alongside UNICEF. The author, Francisca Kakra Forson, was impressed by the students' reading abilities, particularly highlighting Elizabeth, a primary 3 pupil, and Andrew, a child with cerebral palsy. The article addresses the concerning statistic that 70% of primary 3 children in Ghana can read and write, and the additional challenges faced by children with disabilities. The author praises the efforts of USAID and UNICEF in improving access to education and teacher training to support children with disabilities and enhance reading skills. The progress is gradual but noticeable, and the author expresses hope that such interventions will expand nationwide.
Women, Competency And Sexism
The article discusses the impact of women in leadership roles, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It references a statement by former US President Barack Obama praising women's leadership. The article highlights the effective policies and communication of female leaders in Taiwan, Belgium, New Zealand, and Germany during the pandemic. It also mentions the potential for Ghana to elect its first female vice-president, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyeman, if the National Democratic Congress wins the 2020 elections. The article addresses the misogynistic backlash against female politicians in Ghana and the broader issue of gender inequality in leadership positions worldwide. It argues that despite evidence suggesting women's leadership styles are beneficial, societal stereotypes and patriarchal structures continue to hinder women's advancement in leadership roles.
Shame on men, but shame on women more for silence on this so-called liberation – Francisca Kakra Forson writes
The article critiques the negative consequences of the 'Me Too' movement and modern feminism, particularly focusing on the issue of women using their sexuality for gain on social media platforms, which the author refers to as a toxic culture. The author argues that the liberation movement should not condone sexually immoral conduct and material, as it sends the wrong message to younger generations. The article questions the role models of the current era, pointing out the dangers of aspiring to be like figures such as Kim Kardashian, who are famous for their sexualized public personas. The author calls for a balance between freedom and responsibility, suggesting that the current trajectory of women's liberation may be misguided and could lead to the normalization of pornography and hyper-sexualization.
APEATE EXPLOSION IN GHANA’S WESTERN REGION. Scores killed and many others injured after a truck carrying mining explosives crashed a motorcycle that crossed it. Francisca Kakra Forson reports live from the capital Accra.
2 Canadian women kidnapped in Ghana are rescued safely. Freelance journalist Francisca Kakra Forson reports from the capital Accra. Read the full story: https://t.co/16aM5Zgo5R?amp=1
Ghana Launches Free High School Education
Ghana has launched a free education program for secondary high school (SHS) students, fulfilling a major campaign promise of President Nana Akufo-Addo. The program aims to remove financial barriers to education, covering tuition, textbooks, meals, uniforms, and other expenses, with an estimated cost of $100 million in its first year. The initiative has been met with enthusiasm from parents and students, but private schools are concerned about the impact on their enrollment and are calling for the policy to include them. Education Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh has addressed concerns about the potential strain on public schools and the quality of education, assuring that the government has planned for the influx of students and will continue a separate World Bank-funded project to improve learning outcomes.
Nigerian Millionaire Says 'Africapitalism' a Solution to Africa’s Joblessness
The article discusses the challenge of rising youth unemployment in Africa, where the growth in the number of young people is outstripping the availability of jobs, leading to potential exploitation and other negative outcomes. Nigerian entrepreneur Tony Elumelu proposes 'africapitalism' as a solution, where the private sector takes the lead in driving growth and development. The president of Coca-Cola for Central, East and West Africa, Kelvin Balogun, notes the high percentage of graduates unable to find jobs. The International Labor Organization and World Bank reports highlight the severity of the issue, particularly in Ghana. Elumelu emphasizes the need for partnerships and trust within the private sector to tackle unemployment. The article also shares the concerns of students at the University of Ghana about their future job prospects, with some considering further education as an alternative to immediate employment.
High Expectations as Ghana's President Akufo-Addo Takes Office
Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo has been inaugurated amid high expectations from the citizens to address the country's economic challenges. During the ceremony at Black Star Square, Akufo-Addo promised to create wealth, restore happiness, and leverage education and technology for development. He emphasized the role of a vibrant private sector in driving growth and creating jobs. Ghanaians expressed their hopes for job creation, economic improvement, and lower education costs. The outgoing president, John Mahama, was criticized for corruption, and Akufo-Addo pledged to protect public funds and fight corruption. However, Akufo-Addo faced criticism for allegedly plagiarizing parts of a speech by former U.S. President George W. Bush, for which an apology was issued by the presidency's communication director.
Ghana Prepares for Presidential Inauguration Amidst Reflections on Election Defeat
Ghana is preparing for the inauguration of its new president and the swearing-in of parliament members, marking a peaceful transition of power and a significant moment for its democracy. The National Democratic Congress (NDC), the former ruling party, is reflecting on its defeat after losing the presidency and parliamentary majority. The 2016 elections resulted in the incumbent, John Mahama, losing to Nana Akufo-Addo by a significant margin. Political analyst Bossman Asare attributes the NDC's loss to government performance issues, voter sophistication, and overconfidence. The NDC's reliance on rural voters was also questioned. The article draws parallels between the NDC's defeat and the People's Democratic Party's loss in Nigeria, noting similar issues such as economic hardship and corruption. The NPP and President-elect Akufo-Addo are now expected to deliver results to the voters.
GHANA- DUMPING DOCUMENTARY - CHEAP CHICKEN IMPORTS INTO GHANA
GHANA ELECTION 2016
Ghana to Welcome Nana Akufo-Addo as New President
Nana Akufo-Addo is set to become the new president of Ghana after winning the recent election. His political career has been long and deeply rooted in Ghana's history, with his family being significantly involved in the country's independence. Akufo-Addo's campaign focused on economic reform, aiming to transition from a raw material economy to one that adds industrial value. He has a history of political involvement, including opposing one-party military rule, organizing against government policies, and serving in various political roles such as attorney general and foreign minister. Akufo-Addo has previously run for president, and this year he won with 54 percent of the vote. He will be inaugurated on January 7.
Ghana Set to Elect President, Parliament
Ghana is gearing up for presidential and parliamentary elections set to take place on Wednesday. The streets of Accra are filled with campaign materials, mainly from the ruling NDC party and the main opposition NPP. President John Drahami Mahama, who took office after the death of John Atta Mills in 2012, is running for a full term against opposition leader Nana Akufo-Addo. Citizens like Kwasi Nantwi and Frank Boamah express their desire for change, citing economic challenges as a primary concern. However, another resident, Bright Coker, supports Mahama, fearing that a change in government could jeopardize ongoing policies and infrastructure. The voting process is scheduled from 0700 to 1700 UTC, with results expected within 72 hours after the polls close.
Ghana Electoral Commission Assures Problem-free Second Round of Special Voting
Ghana's electoral commission has scheduled a second special early voting period for Sunday after numerous citizens, including security forces, electoral officers, and journalists, encountered issues on Thursday. Many were unable to vote because their names were missing from the voter registry. Journalist Ebenezer Afanyi Dadzie, for instance, was directed to vote in a different region despite prior verification. The commission attributes the problem to application errors and voters going to incorrect constituencies. Constitutional lawyer Nana Asante Bediatuo expressed concerns over potential multiple voting if the commission does not clarify its registration system. The commission plans to prevent double voting by sharing a list of those who have already voted with all political parties.
Ghana Police Tighten Security for Elections
Ghana is facing security concerns due to violent clashes between supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ahead of the presidential and parliamentary elections on December 7. A survey by the Center for Democratic Governance indicated that a majority of Ghanaians expect violence during the elections. Incidents of violence have been reported, including one involving NPP candidate Nii Lante Bannerman. International bodies such as the United States, European Union, and Britain have condemned the violence, while the NDC has accused them of bias. The Ghana Police Service has announced a security plan for the elections, including a one-month amnesty for illegal weapons. The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center estimates there are about 1 million unregistered firearms in Ghana.
Ghana Election Could Hinge on Economy
Ghana is approaching its presidential and parliamentary elections with the economy being a central issue. The country has faced economic challenges such as high inflation, rising public debt, and persistent power cuts. Despite being one of the fastest-growing economies in 2010 due to new offshore oilfields, the economy has since struggled, affecting businesses and jobs. The opposition New Patriotic Party, led by Nana Akuffo Addo, is promising economic management reforms, while the ruling National Democratic Congress and President John Dramani Mahama defend their record, citing recent investments in the power sector and a reduction in the budget deficit. However, economist Robert Darko Osei expresses skepticism about the government's optimistic outlook, especially with election-related spending and recent pay increases for nurses.
Ghana Opens Valves at Second Offshore Oil Field
Ghana's President John Mahama inaugurated the country's second offshore oil field amidst less enthusiasm compared to the first in 2010. Despite exceeding $2 billion in oil revenues, Ghana faces economic challenges with high inflation, soaring public debt, and crippling power shortages. The new oil project, known as TEN, is expected to produce 23,000 barrels a day. The Minister of Petroleum, Emmanuel Buah, anticipates job creation, while the global oil price drop has led to layoffs by Tullow Ghana. Concerns have been raised about the use of FPSOs after issues at the Jubilee field. Kofi Bentil of IMANI Ghana criticized the government's management of oil revenues and suggested dedicating them to infrastructure to combat corruption and mismanagement.
WE ARE ALL MAD!!! [road carnage] We are all mad people on Ghana’s roads; driving, walking, commuting or policing. You are, and so am I. Please don’t get defensive or start pointing fingers at others. I bet you’re wondering, what is this mad woman babbling about? lol. Well I am talking about a topic which is too often ignored in Ghana, by the media, public health officers, road contractors, engineers, law enforcers, presidents… ignored by Ghanaians.
WHY WE HATE THE GHANAIAN WOMAN A number of boys (in breach of the law) publicly broadcast a sex video to shame one actor in the video- the woman who engaged in consensual sex with a man who MAY have recorded her without her knowledge. Shall we name, shame and prosecute these psychopaths whose place is not a higher learning & thinking institution! #punishrevengeporn Shall we not trivialize the serious gender issue ingrained in this patriarchal society.
WHY GHANAIANS ARE FOR BREXIT. It’s not my first time in Europe but certainly my first time in England and Oh boy! What a coincidence! I’m here at a time when United Kingdom is deciding on whether to stay or leave the European Union. I am in London at the invitation of the Queen as a member of the International leadership pogram-ILP UK to learn more about British politics and culture.
Leaked Memo Says Ghana Terror Threat 'Real'
The article reports on a leaked security document in Ghana which indicates that Ghana and Togo may be the next targets of al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the group responsible for recent terror attacks in West Africa. The document, which was addressed to Ghana’s immigration service, calls for increased border surveillance and profiling of individuals from Mali, Niger, and Libya. Ghanaian President John Mahama addressed the nation, urging calm and detailing the preparedness of special forces. The leak of the document has been criticized, and the head of the West African Center for Counter Terrorism, Mutharu Muqthar Mumuni, emphasized the need for vigilance without violating human rights. The article highlights the expansion of AQIM's operations beyond North Africa and parts of the Sahel region.
Ghana’s Central Bank Chief Resigns Amid Economic Criticism
Henry Kofi Wampah, the governor of Ghana's central bank, has resigned from his position four months before the end of his term, amidst criticism of the country's economic struggles. Appointed in 2012, Wampah faced challenges such as a fiscal deficit, high inflation, a devaluing currency, and increasing debt. Ghanaian economist Felix Asante emphasized the need for the new governor to control government spending. Despite being a major producer of gold, cocoa, and recently oil, Ghana's economy has seen little improvement in living standards for its citizens. Inflation remains a significant issue, affecting local businesses and the purchasing power of the populace. The president of Ghana will appoint a new governor, while Wampah's first deputy, Millison Narh, serves as the interim head.
Ghana on High Alert After Ivory Coast Terror Attack
Following a deadly terror attack in Ivory Coast, Ghana's government has issued a high alert for potential terrorist threats within the country. National security chiefs have reported credible intelligence of a threat and have met with President John Mahama to discuss preparedness. The government has urged citizens to be vigilant and report suspicious activities. This alert comes after recent attacks by al-Qaida militants in regional capitals and a beach resort in West Africa. The public's reaction is mixed, with some expressing concern over porous borders and the need for proactive measures, while others remain unconcerned until an incident occurs. The UK and the US military have advised caution for their citizens and personnel in Ghana.
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