Govt. disappointed over CPI score

Tuesday, December 6, 2011
By Edmund Mingle
The government says recent slip by Ghana in the Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) will not break its resolve in fighting corruption.
Rather, it will encourage the government to redouble its efforts tackling the menace in the Ghanaian society.
“As a government, we believe we have done a lot to deserve a better score,” Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, deputy Minister of Information told the Times in Accra yesterday.
He said although the government expected an improved score over that of the previous year, it would nevertheless consider the new score as a source of motivation to ensure that all sectors fought corruption with the same zeal as the Executive.

The 2011 Index report indicated Ghana, from a list of 183 countries, slipped to 69 in 2011 having scored 3.9points, from its 62nd position with 4.1points in 2010.
The deputy Minister said it was unfortunate that the perception of corruption was high for this year, saying the government was actively playing its part it the fight against the menace by instituting the appropriate measures to plugs the loopholes for corruption.
He cited President Mills’ exemplary leadership and unparalleled credibility as an open, incorruptible person, his open governance style, as well as his insistence on accountability by his appointees as key indicators of the success of the government’s efforts.

In addition, he pointed out other measures adopted by the government which he believed should have attracted a better score for the country.
These, he said, included government’s signing onto the Extractive Industry Transparency Index (EITI), the regular public declaration of proceeds from the oil and gas, the sending of the he Right to Information Bill to Parliament, the installation of new scanners at the airport to check the drug menace, strengthened the Economic and Organised Crimes Office, collaboration with the media, in addition to implementation of reforms in the revenue collection agencies, and the security services to fight corruption.
“We are implemented all these measure within these three years, and we know we deserved better,” he said.
According to him, the government would do well to regain its 4.1 score, which is Ghana’s best ever CPI score.
“We are encouraged by our historical performance of 4.1, and we resolve to even pass that mark,” he stressed.
In the latest report, the CPI scored 183 countries and territories from 0 (highly corrupt) to 10 (very clean), based on perceived levels of public sector corruption, using data from 17 surveys that look at factors such as enforcement of anti¬corruption laws, access to information, and conflicts of interest.

Botswana, which is ranked 32 globally with a score of 6.1 out of 10, was adjudged Africa's cleanest nation. Cape Verde, Mauritius and Rwanda followed suit, with ranks of 41, 46 and 49 with scores of 5.5, 5.1 and 5.0 respectively.
New Zealand is ranked the least corrupt nation on earth, with a score of 9.5. The Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Finland and Norway followed suit, with scores of 9.4, 9.4 and 9.3 out of a clean score of 10 respectively.
END

Canadian Parliament praises Ghana

From Edmund Mingle, Ottawa, Canada.
The Parliament of Canada has praised Ghana for its impressive socio-economic growth in recent years and especially the progress of democracy in Ghana, indicating that Ghana is a country worth emulating.
The Canadian legislature also commended the government for its commitment to ensure that the upcoming general elections was free, fair and transparent, saying that was vital in consolidating the gains made in the pursuit of democracy and good governance.
Renel Andreychuk, Chairperson of the Canadian-African Parliamentary Association, at meeting between Canadian Senators and President Mills at Parliament House in Ottawa as part of his visit to Canada, said the Senate was impressed about the tremendous progress being made by Ghana.
According to her the Senate, and particularly the Canadian-African Parliamentary Association, the progress of Ghana was being followed with keen, applauding her improved democratic credentials.
President Mills, addressing the senators, President affirmed his commitment to ensure that the gains made in the area of democracy were built on and protected.
He thanked the government of Canada for its continuous support, describing that country as a “reliable and genuine development partner.”
Explaining some of the objectives of a number of economic policy to the members of the Senate, President Mills noted that although the country has an emerging oil industry, “we do not want to rely on oil revenue.”
Instead, he said the focus was on advancing the agriculture sector which has a huge potential for sustainable socio-economic growth.
He also noted that the nation’s drive infrastructure development, which is a major pillar in the government better Ghana agenda, was in high gear, and therefore called for more support in that regard.
“It’s our determination to ensure free and fair elections,” he told the legislators.
“We do not want to fall into the trap which other countries could not avoid,” he said, adding that one of the ways of protecting the rights of citizens toward enriching democratic rule was to conduct credible elections.
Inviting them to monitor the elections, President Mills said the government was prepared to fully resource the Electoral Commission to perform the task satisfactorily, and called for the cooperation of all partners.
Canada is a model that all of us would want to emulate
“At a time when others were not prepared to help us, Canada gave us a helping hand,” he told the Senators, and stressed his administration’s preparedness to continue to partner Canada for the mutual benefit of both nations.
As part of the visit, President Mills called on the Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper where they held closed door discussions with the aim of further consolidating the ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Harper, was very happy about the enhanced cooperation between the two countries, and assured Ghana of Canada’s partnership towards achieving Ghana development objectives.
The Prime Minister also lauded the opening of refurbished Ghana Mission in Ottawa, indicating that it would help increasing interaction between the people of the two countries.
From there, President Mills opened the refurbished Ghana Mission building in Ottawa, amidst excitement among Ghanaians in that country.
He opening of the refurbished building, which was purchased by Ghana comes in the wake of the need for a permanent building to facilitate the trade and immigration activities between Ghana and Canada.
The building, which was acquired by Ghana after independence, deteriorated over the year due to poor maintenance.
Opening the building, President Mills thanked all who contributed to the reopening of the facility, and saying it should be considered milestone in government’s objective of advancing trade and cooperation between Ghana and Canada.
END

President moves against foreign interference

From Edmund Mingle, Ottawa, Canada.
President John Evans Atta Mills has initiated a campaign against foreign interference in African affairs, calling for a more united Africa to wade of such interference which is adversely affecting the continent.
The increasing trend of interference by foreign super powers in Africa, he said, has increasingly become detrimental to the progress of the continent, indicating that Africans need to be bold in stopping the trend.
“We must take bold steps forward to be able to break away from the influence and frequent intrusion of those super powers,” he told members of the African Diplomatic Corps in Canada, during an interaction with them in Ottawa on Friday, as part of his official visit to Canada.
Deploring the foreign intrusion which he said has rather worsened situations in Africa because the developed countries always pursued their interest instead of the interest of Africa, he blamed the situation on Africa because it is not united.
“Some countries still believe our countries in Africa should dance to their tunes. Unfortunately some of us also find it very difficult to break the umbilical cords that link us to those countries. But we must take bold steps forward to be able to do this.
“We as African leaders have to sit down to find out what we have done wrong,” he said, reminding the continent that “if you allow others to dictate to you and you allow others to take your destiny in their hands, you will have no control over how they will direct you.”
According to President Mills, who recently called the bluff of the British Prime Minister to withhold aid to nations that don’t approve of homosexuality, insisting that Britain can’t dictate to Ghana, said the cause of disunity in Africa was that over the years African nations have pursued different agenda, “and have tended to look at problems facing us as problems facing individual nations rather that the continent.”
“We should owe allegiance to only Africa and not to any other power or super power,” he said, stressing the is need for Africa to be united
In his view, the commonality of interest among African nations, should make the continent strongly united, reminding African leaders that do the outside forces would always pursued their own interests.
“What is happening in Africa is not pleasant and palatable and something that we can be proud of. Now it not even a matter of they talking to us, but they are directing us in a way that will suit their interests and not ours,” he stressed.
Citing the Libya crisis as an example of foreign interference, he noted that “there are developments on the continent where others outside have decided what to do in other parts of Africa.”
The answer in addressing the situation, he said, lied in African leaders coming together to forge ahead.
“The way forward is for all of us to get together and talk to one another,” he noted African nations have for far too long listened to others outside.
According to him, many African nations have fallen victims to the machination of the outside forces, citing the situation in Libya in which the western powers disrespected the African Union’s decision to resolve the crisis amicably, and rather used violence to oust the government.
“We felt that as a Union that there should be cease fire because negotiations were ongoing for the two sides to come together to have the crisis resolved, but regrettably, that stance was ignored,” he stated.
“If anything happens in Libya, are they going to come to the AU for advice to solve it?” he asked, saying “this is not the best.”
He called for more interaction and peer review among African nations and their leaders citing the African Peer Review Mechanism, as very helpful in correcting negative situations on the continent.
“We don’t want a situation where outside powers would come and do peer review for us, because they do not understand our situation,” he said, explaining that in such situations where outside powers does peer review, based on their interest, the situation rather worsens.
As Africans, he said “we have our own ideals and unique characteristics, and however much others may love us, they can never understand the African psyche.”
The President was however glad that “Africa is waking up from a long sleep,” indicating that many of the continent’s leaders have recognized the need for a paradigm shift in leadership.
Expressing worry about the state of the continent, President Mills noted that there was no justification for Africa to remain poor in spite of her abundant resources.
Ironically, he said other nations who are held out as prosperous, have continuously benefited from Africans resources, whilst Africa rather keep matching backwards.
He reminded his colleague leaders ensure the growth of democracy in their countries for enhanced good governance, indicating that once they have chosen the path of democracy, “you have to be bound by the rules that govern democracy.”
The President urged the Ambassadors and others around leaders African leaders to present the truth to them to so that leaders get the true picture of situations so as to take the appropriate measures in the interest of their people.
The ambassadors in their response were full of praise for the President, describing him as a transformation leader.
“We are proud to have such a visionary leader, and we need more of your kind in Africa for the growth of the continent,” said Juliette Bonkoungou, Dean of the African Diplomat Corps in Canada, and Ambassador of Burkina Faso to Canada.
END

President wants national action against floods

By Edmund Mingle
President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday has called for a national collective effort to deal with the perennial flood disasters that affect the country, saying “it is time we tackle the flood menace.”

“We should all work together to comprehensively solve this problem in a non-partisan manner,” he said.
Speaking to residents at Dome during a visit to some of the flood devastated areas in the capital, President Mills said it was time the nation took measures to address the factors, particularly the human factor, that cause the floods.

According to him, the nation has drawn enough lessons from the adverse effects of the flood disasters, and it was time for action.

He bemoaned the situation where political meanings are read into actions by city authorities to prevent such flooding situations, such as the demolition of structures in water ways, indicating that that attitude must change.

“We need to address this problem as a nation,” he said, reminding Ghanaians that until the anti-flooding measures were implemented, flood disasters will keep recurring year after year.

Consequently, the President directed the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to take drastic measures to address the situation, which he described as “unacceptable.”

“This must not be allowed to continue,” he stressed, as he sympathized with the affected residents.

He also charged the city authorities to mobilize resources to as a matter of urgency appropriate drains for the water bodies in the flood prone areas of the city, and asked ensure that all hindrances to the free flow water bodies were removed.


He said it was regrettable that developers continue to violate building regulations and build in water ways thereby preventing the flow of water leading to floods that affect other innocent residents.

He also expressed sympathies with the families of those killed by the flood waters, and charged the city authorities and the NADMO to provide adequate relief to the victims.

President Mills also assured all affected residents of government urgent assistance to alleviate their plight, and urged them to remain calm.

As part of rounds, President Mills visited the Odawna Bridge at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle, Alajo, Dome Pillar Two and Dome Crossing where he witnessed the devastation caused by the floods resulting from Tuesday night’s heavy downpour.

Parts of buildings in water ways, bridges and portions of roads, were found to have been washed away by the floods, which claimed five lives, and displaced hundreds of households and workers, with vehicles still submerged in the flood.

Kofi Portuphy, National Coordinator of NADMO, conducting the President around, said 12 rescue teams consisting of the AMA, Fire Service, Military and NADMO were helping with rescue and relief efforts in the affected areas.


He said the displaced residents were being identified for the necessary relief items to be provided as a short term measure.

“We are also ensuring that all residents are safe,” he told newsmen.
He confirmed the death of four, indicating that his outfit was yet to ascertain the veracity of reports of additional deaths.
END

NO WAY FOR GAYS....president calls Cameron's bluff

Thursday November 3, 2011

By Edmund Mingle
President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday declared that homosexuality will never be legalized in Ghana under his watch, calling off the bluff of the British government which plans to withdraw aid to developing countries that have not legalized homosexuality.

He said the Britain cannot dictate to Ghana to legalise such a destructive practice, stressing that Ghana would not accept aid with conditions that can destroy the social fibre of the nation.

“No one can deny Prime Minister Cameroon his right to make policies, take initiatives or make statements that reflect societal norms and ideals.

“But he does not have the right to direct other sovereign nations as to what they should do especially where their societal norms and ideals are different from those that exist in the Prime Minister Cameron’s society,” President Mills said during an interaction with the Presidential Press Corps at the Castle in Accra.

“I, as President of this nation, will never initiate or support any attempts to legalize homosexuality in Ghana, he said in response to a question about Ghana’s position on the British Prime Minister’s statement that his country would no more give aid to aid beneficiary countries that were against homosexuality.

Mr. Cameron, who made the statements in an interview with the BBC on the sidelines of the Commonwealth meeting at Perth, Australia, also demanded that aid beneficiary nations “adhere to proper human rights” by reforming their legislation to accept homosexuality.

But President Mills, in what is his first public statement on homosexuality, noted that as a government “we will abide by the principles enshrined in our Constitution which is supreme.”

Whilst acknowledging all the financial assistance and aid offered the development partners, he said “we will not accept any aid with strings attached, if that aid will not inure to our interest, or the utilization of that aid would rather worsen our plight as a nation, or destroy the very society that we want to use the money to improve.”

President Mills, who address a wide range of issues, noted that the government was focused on developing the nation, and would not be allowed to be distracted from the implementation of the better Ghana agenda.

On why he was absent from the Commonwealth meeting, he said he had to stay home to attend to pressing national issues such as the doctors strike, the preparation of the nation budget and flood disaster.

He was of the view that it was worthwhile staying back to help in resolving the challenges, and thanked the Vice President for representing the nation and making tremendous contributions discussions at the summit.

Giving an update on government’s commitment to provide funds to enable the Accra Metropolitan Assembly to construct storm drains as a measure to address the perennial floods that affect the capital, President Mills said he has held a series of meetings with stakeholders on the matter, adding that the funds would be available soon.

Touching on politics and the recent statements by the NPP flag bearer that he would win the next year’s elections “at all cost” using all means, President Mills bemoaned the beating of war drums by the opposition.

“We shouldn’t take Ghanaians for granted. Ghanaians want peace,” he said, and reiterated his commitment to ensure that the elections were conducted in a free and fair manner to ensure that the outcome of the impending polls were very credible.

On the recent happenings of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), President Mills urged all parties to put their differences aside and work together to promote the GOC for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

“The GOC has had too many problems,” and expressed delight that the problems have been resolved, with the holding its congress.

He congratulated the members of the new leadership on their election, and new leadership to cooperate with all stakeholders.

President Mills, who expressed appreciation to the presidential press corps for their dedication, support and cooperation, also gave indications of taking his leave, after a very busy year.

“At the moment we are working on the budget, and once we see our way clear, I can take a little rest,” he said.
END

Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire, UNHCR sign pact for return of Ivorian refugees

Friday, October 7, 2011

By Edmund Mingle
Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire yesterday renewed their friendship as Ivorian President, Alassane Ouattara, expressed immense gratitude for the support his country is enjoying from Ghana towards peace building and development.

Presidents John Evans Atta Mills and Quattara, after bilateral discussions at the Castle in Accra as part of the Ivorian leader’s one day official visit to Ghana, lauded the gains made from the relations between the two nations and further advance their already flourishing partnership.

Apart from aiming to boost the ties between the two nations, the visit is to demonstrate Cote d’Ivoire’s gratitude to Ghana for the significant role it played in resolving of the political crisis that hit Cote d’Ivoire early this year.

Among other things, the visit was in furtherance of the shared commitment to good neigbourliness, between the Ghana and Cote Cote d’Ivoire, and also provided the opportunity for the leaders to review their political, security and economic relations for improvement.

President Ouattara, who was full of praise for Ghana, said his government acknowledges the need to fully cooperate with Ghana addressing outstanding issues such as the repatriation of Ivorians who took refuge in Ghana during the crisis.

“We are highly appreciative of your support,” he said at a luncheon at the Castle in his honour, after the bilateral talks which culminated in the signing a tripartite agreement between Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire and the United Nations High Commission for Refuees (UNHCR).

The tripartite agreement was reached following the conclusion by the two leaders of the need for the refugees to return home voluntarily to help in the rebuilding of their country.

Signed by Alhaji Mohammed Mumuni, Daniel Kablan Duncan, Foreign Ministers of Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire respectively, and Sharon Cooper, UNHCR Country Director, the agreement involves the arrangements for the voluntary repatriation of about 18,000 Ivorian refugees back home.

Commending President Mills for his contribution in solving the crisis in Cote d’Ivoire, President Quattara said; “You are indeed a peace maker.”

He thanked President Mills for the “wise counsel” to all the parties in the political impasse, and also thanked Ghana for accommodating the more than 18,000 Ivorians who sought refuge in Ghana.

“We trust that we will continue to enjoy your assistance as we rebuild our country,” he said at the luncheon which was attended by Ministers, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, the Chief Justice, Security Chiefs and leaders of the various political parties.
President Ouattara, who earlier laid a wreath at the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in honour of Ghana’s first President, said he was happy to be in Ghana, indicating that Ivorians hold Ghana in high esteem.

You have demonstrated that you are a reliable friend and neigbour,” he said, as he responded to the toast proposed by President Mills.

President Mills, proposing the toast, was glad peace had returned to Cote d’Ivoire, saying “what affect you affects us.”

“We have a lot in common, and we will do all we can to support you to promote peace and the growth of democracy in Cote d’Ivoire,” he said.

He also commended the President Ouattara for the progress being made in the implementation of the road map to peace and development in that country, and expressed optimism that the development efforts would be successful to ensure that that country regained its position in the commity of nations.

“You can count on our support,” he told the Ivorian leader.

A joint communiqué issued at the end of the visit, said the leaders also discussed the issue of the common maritime boundary between the countries heightened by the oil discovery in Ghana, and expressed their satisfaction with the progress sofar made in negotiations regarding the delimitation of the boundary.

“They reaffirmed their shared disposition to continue working towards achieving an amicable and mutually acceptable conclusion on the deliberations,” it said.

The two sides, it said, accordingly agreed to reconvene the next Joint Border Delimitation Consultative Meeting in Abidjan next month.

Responding to questions from journalists at the airport before departure, President Ouattara, assured ex-combatants who are among the refugees in Ghana, of their safety when they return home.

President Mills, for his part, warned the refugees of lawlessness, saying an abuse of Ghana’s laws would not be tolerated.

He also warned that “we will not allow anybody to use our territory to destabilize Cote d’Ivoire,” and urged the Ivorian ex-combatants in Ghana to accept the olive branch being offered by President Quattara and return home.
END

ECG improves operations

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

By Edmund Mingle

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) says the recent investment injected into its operations is paying off, as its transmission systems records impressive improvement.

According to the company, the injection of new equipment, improvement in its network transmission system and the re-orientation of the staff, have helped to drastically reduce the power outages across the country.

In addition, the company continues to improve its revenue generation, with the distribution of some 580,000 prepaid meters in Accra and Cape Coast, while plans are advanced to extend the distribution of the prepaid meters to other urban areas.

“We are going all out to sustain and improve on the gains made in our operations,” Anthony Gyampo, acting Managing Director of ECG told journalist during an interaction in Accra.

He although the company has achieved success in its operations recently, it was aware that there was more room for improvement, and was therefore taking the necessary measures to provide more satisfactory services to all customers.

At the moment, he said most of the revenue generated by the company, which remains the best power distributor in the West Africa, was being re-invested into its operations, saying “we want to give our customers value for their money.”

He said as a result of the recent investment, new transmission lines and more transformers have been installed to ensure that the transformers are able to accommodate the load on them.

Currently, he said the company was on the verge of extending its new Loss Reduction and Network Improvement System, which was successfully piloted in Teshie in Accra, to other parts of the country.

The system, which is part of the short to medium term plan, ensures that fewer customers are hooked to a power transformer so as for effectively management of the load.

For the medium to long term plan for the management effective management of load so as eradicate power outages caused by faulty transformers, Mr. Gyampo noted that the company was moving towards the secondary automation which involved the installation of a scada system to automatically distribute the load from a faulty transformer to others in good condition.

“This will prevent the power loss to customers on that faulty transformer,” he explained.

In addition, he said the management was in the process of upgrading monitoring systems in their stations to quickly detect faults on transformers and transmission lines around the country.

He noted that they were focusing more on the network transmission improvement, because about 80 per cent of outages were due to faulty transformer which do not take much time to repair, indicating that it would make the response time highly rapid.

The company generated its revenue from government funds, loans and tariffs, but according the Mr. Gyampo, the revenue from tariffs was being adversely affected by illegal power connections.

“Some people have made it their duty to steal power for their businesses, but we continue to step up the fight against illegal connections,” he said.

Touching on measures to address the menace, he said the company was introducing systems to make it more difficult for people to steal electric power.

Among the measure, he said the electric meters have been made in way that it cannot be tampered with, while others are put in lockable enclosures.

Apart from these, he said the company has enhanced its public education against illegal connection, adding that they have instituted award scheme to reward informants who provide tip off to the company about illegal connections.

On debt owed the company, he explained that the company was resorting to various measure, including legal actions, to have debts paid by defaulting customers.

Mr. Gyampo commended the staff, particularly the engineers, for the contribution, which have helped to improve the fortunes of the company, assuring them management would continue provide enhanced remuneration.

“A lot of work has gone into improving our operations, and credit goes to the engineers,” he stressed, and also thanked the government and partners for the continuous support.
END

President Jonathan receives doctorate degree from GIMPA......and calls for responsible governance

By Edmund Mingle
Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan at the weekend accepted an honorary law doctorate degree from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), as he called on African governments to live up to their responsibilities.

“Today, in this rapidly globalizing world, we in this region must use the State as an agent of change, development and progress,” he said.

He expressed the need for the governments to transform the State to be positively receptive to the yearnings of their people for integration, commerce and free movement of goods and services.

“Indeed the State must unleash the creative genius of our people, and their unbounded energy and industry that in the past centuries, gave rise to the Trans Saharan Trade and sustained our people for generations,” he said.

In his keynote address at a special Golden Jubilee Congregation of GIMPA in Accra where the award was conferred on him, as part of his two-day official visit to Ghana, President Jonathan, said the days when states dictated to their people, especially in the areas of commerce and industry, was over.

“We have a clear duty to ensure that about 230 million of our brothers and sisters in our sub-region live in harmony, peace, and security, and to pursue their trade and vocations without undue hindrance imposed by State and their agencies,” he reminded the governments in West Africa.

The Nigeria leader congratulated GIMPA on its 50th anniversary, and its contribution towards providing quality human resource for public administration in Ghana and other African countries.

He called on African governments to investment more in human resource training institutions like GIMPA, indicating that without the right competences and expertise, national development objectives cannot be achieved.

“The economic challenges that we wish to overcome, and the social transformation that we aim to achieve in our countries, cannot be address if we do not imbibe the ethos of professionalism and expertise in management and public administration,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to GIMPA for the honour, and urged the Institute to continue to cooperate and partners similar institutions across the continent to enhance the quality of human resource for the transformation of public institutions.

A citation accompanying the award described the Nigeria leader as “an icon of exemplary leadership in Africa.”

It also described him as “an astute politician, outstanding public servant, distinguished scholar, patron of peace and a true statesman” who served with distinction as Vice President before being elected as President of Nigeria.

The citation traced his achievements from his days in school, through his time as a university lecturer, his venture into politics and to his assumption of office as leader of Nigeria, saying with a tenacity, wisdom and integrity, “you have lit every path you have treaded, and made a difference in the lives of many people.”

President Mills, who also grace the celebration, congratulated his counterpart for the achievement, and hoped that it would inspire others in the region to aspire offer selfless service to their nations.

He also congratulated GIMPA for the milestone achievement, and gave assurance of government’s continued support to enable it to build on the gains made in the past 50 years of existence.
END

Ghana, Nigeria resolve to improve ties

Monday, October 10, 2011

By Edmund Mingle
Ghana and Nigeria have resolved to in their friendship with the hope of advancing their economic cooperation for the benefit of their people.

Presidents John Evans Atta Mills, and his Nigerian counterpart, President Goodluck Jonathan, who was in Ghana over the weekend, agreed that although the longstanding political, cultural, and social collaboration between the two were flourishing, the economic cooperation needed more improvement.

In that regard, they agreed at the end of talks to institute the necessary measures to remove all barriers to effective trade between Ghana and Nigeria.

At a pre-departure news conference on Saturday at the end of the two-day State visit of the Nigeria leader, the two Presidents expressed optimism that the commitment of their governments towards their promotion of the political and cultural relations, would continue to permeate the economic cooperation between the two West Africa nations, both of whom play leadership roles on the continent.

Presidents Mills and Jonathan also expressed the resolve of their governments to work together towards improving the integration of the West Africa, bearing in mind that the actions of the two countries affect the progress of the sub-region.

Ghana, President Mills said, was fully committed to the relations with Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, stressing that cooperation with the country’s neighbours, was a priority to the government.
“We have the right commitment to regional cooperation,” he said, adding that Ghana was aware of its responsibility as a leader in Africa, to continue to promote regional integration and quality trade.
“There is more we can achieve through cooperation and partnership with countries like Nigeria,” he said.
He believes the common development challenges that face Ghana and Nigeria are not insurmountable, and therefore, called for the right co-operation and collaboration between the two countries so that they will be able to overcome these Challenges with a common solutions.

For his part, President John, who is the chairman of ECOWAS, also gave assurance of his government’s preparedness to increase trade with Ghana, and also promote regional economic integration.

“You can’t talk about trade when you can’t move goods from Accra to Lagos freely,” he said, deploring the slow pace of integration of the sub-region.

Luckily, he said all the West African States are politically stable, which provides an impetus for economic growth that would help in promoting the progress of the sub-regional economic through increased regional trade.


President Jonathan, who was honoured with an honorary law doctorate degree by the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration on Saturday, commended Ghana for the impressive democratic and economic performance, as well as its contribution to the progress of the continent over the years.

He said apart from Ghana blazing the trail for the emancipation of Africa from colonialism, Ghana continues to show clear political leadership for the rest of the continent to emulate.

Earlier at a State Banquet held in his honour, President Jonathan was sure that effective cooperation between Ghana and Nigeria would greatly contribute to strengthening ECOWAS.

He also urged both Ghanaian and Nigerian investors to take advantage of the flourishing ties between the two nations, and explore the business opportunities in Ghana and Nigeria.

“This is because our efforts to attract foreign investors will not yield much if we do not invest locally,” he said.

Similarly, President Mills, proposing the toast at the banquet, called for more partnership between the people of the two nations for the proper investments.

He said Ghanaians and Nigerians have to work together in the common good of the two nations, since Ghana and Nigeria abound with high caliber of expertise in various fields.

President Mills congratulated his guest on his election as the President of Nigeria, saying it was “a demonstration of the determination of African countries to embrace and entrench democracy and rule of law.”

Also former university don, President Mills commended President Jonathan, who shared a similar background, for transcending academia into politics successfully, saying “academia cannot be left out of politics entirely.”

To contribute to the sustenance of democracy in Africa, President Mills reiterated his resolve to ensure that Ghana's 2012 election was free, fair and transparent.

“This is because the country has a standard to maintain, and to send the right signal to the rest of world that Africa is changing for the better,” he said.

END

Keep off Ghana---Prez warns drug barons

Saturday, September 24, 2011

By Edmund Mingle

President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday sounded of note of warning to drug barons across the globe that Ghana is out of bounds for their illicit drug trade, as the nation’s the security apparatus is on red alert.

Addressing the 66th United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA, President Mills noted that Ghana was intensifying her efforts to check the menace in spite of the gains made in the fighting drug trafficking in Ghana in recent years.

“My administration remains relentlessly committed to vigorously fighting the narcotics menace.

“We will continue to make Ghana an unattractive destination for the drug barons and their assigns,” he told the General Assembly made up of world leaders.

He was of the conviction that Ghana must be free from drugs as a measure to ring-fence the future of our youth, citing the destructive effects of illicit drugs on society.

“Indeed, the world must be made an unattractive place for the illicit drug trade,” he stressed in his address, which is his second to the Assembly.

Briefing the Assembly of the government’s development initiatives, he said as his administration continue to invest heavily in the youth by expanding education and skills training opportunities, efforts would be made to protect the youth against destructive practices such as drug trafficking and use.

He cited the increase in provision of free school uniforms, free text books, and the elimination of over 1,000 schools under trees within the last two years, saying “we are confident that the right foundation is being built for take-off.”

“Ghana’s oil and gas find also gives us greater opportunity to create the necessary environment for sustainable job creating avenues to comprehensively beat down youth unemployment numbers,” he added.

Ghana, he said, was implementing a youth policy that is situating young men and women in the center of nation building, indicating that Ghana highly recognizes and appreciates the contributions of its youth in the development of our democracy and nation.

The government, he noted, believed that the adoption of the UN political declaration urging states to develop comprehensive policies and action plans to give more meaning to youth development, was commendable, especially in this International Year of the Youth.

Touching on other pertinent national and global issues such as conflict prevention, climate
change, gender development and human security, President Mills reiterated his administration’s
commitment to ensure a free and transparent general election in Ghana next year.

“Ghana’s democratic credentials stand tall and we intend to maintain the standards we have achieved,” he said, noting that the Electoral Commission was being resourced adequately to successfully conduct the elections in a free, fair and transparent manner to safeguard the rights of the citizenry.

He invited the international community keep an eye on Ghana’s 2010 election, as it did it 2008, saying the interest of the international community in Ghana was a source of encouragement for Ghana to conduct the elections peacefully.

According to him, the government had taken measures to strengthen the rule of law by enacting appropriate legislation to promote accountability and good governance, protect human rights, ensure the independence and integrity of the judiciary, free and fair elections, and the freedom of the media, all in an effort to maintain Ghana as a free and peaceful society.

On the international front, President Mills lauding the various initiatives being pursued by the UN to ensure a better world, and reaffirmed Ghana’s fullest commitment to the ideals of the UN and advocated the mustering of the necessary political will that would allow the UN to function more effectively and efficiently.

Ghana, he said, recognized the accomplishment of the UN in taking on complex peacekeeping and security dimensions that require long-term planning and strategic reforms to enable the global body effectively deal with peace-building challenges around the world.

In that regard, he said Ghana re-affirms her support for the on¬going reform agenda being undertaken by the UN in consultation with the Troop and Police Contributing Countries (TCCs and PCCs).

“We do, however, emphasize the importance of regular tripartite consultations between the Security Council, the Secretariat, and TCCs to ensure the successful execution of mandates in the respective peacekeeping operation areas,” he said.

“As one of the top contributors of troops and police personnel to UN peacekeeping operations, Ghana remains unwavering in its commitment to the ideals and objectives of the United Nations.

“Accordingly, I wish to assure you that as long as financial, material and human capacity exist at the national level, Ghana will continue to provide personnel and resources in support of UN peacekeeping and peace-building efforts,” he said.

In that direction, President Mills stressed the need to equitably share the burden and costs to the UN for policing conflict zones around the globe.

Ghana, he noted, fully supports the attainment of an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), and expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the ATT Preparatory Committee meetings held early this year, saying the ATT was indispensable step in preventing the flow of conventional arms to destinations to threat the security of nations.

“For developing countries such as Ghana, the illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) and other conventional weaponry continues to pose a threat to our national security and socio-economic and political stability, given the former's close linkage to terrorism, organized crime, drugs and human trafficking, among others,” he said.

On gender issues, President Mills said it was critical for countries, as members of the global community, to break the gender stereotypes which are root causes of the myriad of gender inequality challenges currently facing most countries.

He informed the Assembly that Ghana remained focused in addressing gender imbalances and misconceptions as well as improving the living conditions of its women and girls, bearing in mind that solving the gender issue would ultimately ensure the attainment of the majority of the Millennium Development Goals.

On the occasion of the high-level meeting to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Durban Declaration Plan of Action for the fight against all forms of discrimination, he said Ghana recognized the progress achieved in that area and the opportunity given Member States to strengthen and renew political commitment in the prevention and fight against racism and racial discrimination in all its forms.

“We remain confident that the effective implementation of the outcome document will ensure the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, including victims of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance in all societies.

Touching on the complex issue of climate change, President Mills called for urgent and concerted action to maximize the opportunities climate change presents.

He was of the view that with the right investment in infrastructure, institutions and technology by both the international community and individual nations, “we can unleash the potential of agriculture, harness the multiple benefits of water resources, expand access to modern energy, step up the fight against diseases and conserve tropical forest.”

In addition, he said as climate change negotiations in Durban, South Africa, draws closer, there was a need for increased political commitment, strong leadership and a high sense of flexibility to support climate change mitigation initiatives.

He also lauded the progress made on the design of the institutions of adaptations such as the Green Climate Fund, and hoped that the sources of funding would be determined in time to so as for the Fund to achieve its objectives.
END

PBC Diversifies operations

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

By Edmund Mingle
After winning the top spot as the best performing company in Ghana, Produce Buying Company (PBC) the largest cocoa purchaser, has shifted its operations into a higher gear to build on that historic feat.
According to the management, the feat, which is a result of comprehensive reforms introduced in the operations of the company after experiencing huge losses in 2004 and 2006, serves as a huge boost for the firm to vigorously pursue its expansion drive.
Springing from the 34th position in 2009, to clinch the top spot in the Ghana Club 100 for 2010, the management of says it not surprised at the achievement, because a lot of work was done to improve the fortunes of the company.
“We saw it coming,” George Kwadjo Boateng, Deputy Managing Director (Operations) of PBC, told the Times in Accra, indicating that the investments and the efforts of the entire staff have paid off.
According to him, the improved fortunes of the company which gave it the best records to win the award, was a culmination of a multi-purpose strategy adopted by the management for achieve maximum profitability from the firm’s operations.
He explained that after the losses in between 2004 and 2006, management development measures to motivate staff and demand higher performance, promptly pay cocoa farmers and provide incentives them to win more customer loyalty, investment more in cocoa purchases, improve the primary and secondary channels of cocoa evacuation and acquire modern equipment from operations, as well as invest in other areas of the agriculture sector.
As a result, he noted that the company begun witnessing increases in its profit base from 2007 where it was able to pay off its debts, invested some GHc 21million into its haulage operations for efficient evacuation of the cocoa from the farming areas to the ports.
In addition, he said the company was able to increase its market share from about 30 per cent to the current 38 per cent, and aims at further increasing it to about 43 per cent in the 2012/2013 cocoa season.
“We know we can achieve this and even more,” he said, adding that the right measures are in place.
Touching on the company’s investment for expansion, he said PBC has ventured into the production of shea butter.
The establishment of a the company’s subsidiary, called PBC Shea Limited at Buipe in the Northern Region, is almost complete, to process shea nuts into shea butter for export.

It is investing about 10 million dollars to establish the plant, expected to begin operation before the end of this year, with an initial target of processing 40,000 tonnes of nuts into 15,000 tonnes of butter.
In addition, the company is investing in the establishment modern car parks in Tema.

The move forms part of the company's medium-term strategy aimed at diversifying its operations to generate more resources to support its operations.
PBC gained a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of GHc19. 256million in the 2009 2010 financial year, representing a 35 percent jump in earnings, compared to GHc7.176 million for the
previous financial year.
Similarly, the company’s turnover for cocoa operations jumped from GHc430 million in the previous year to the current GHc 622.66 million.
Ultimately, Mr. Boateng, noted that the measures would enable the company to further increase its fortunes, and retain the top spot on the Ghana Club 100 for 2011.
“We are expecting this recognition as Ghana’s most prestigious company to facilitate the process towards enhancing our investment fortunes.
“It is the aim of management and board to move beyond these attainments and establish even better standards for the company,” he said.

UN lauds Ghana's disaster risk reduction plan

Thursday, September 8, 2011

By Edmund Mingle

The United Nations has commended Ghana for developing a National Disaster Risk Reduction Action Plan, which seeks to drastically reduce the impact of disasters, saying disaster prevention is critical for development.

According to the UN, it was laudable the action plan was set for implementation to prevent and also to cushion the nation against disasters when they strike.
Mrs. Ruby Sandhu-Rojon, UN Resident Coordinator gave the commendation when she called on President John Evans Atta Mills at the Castle yesterday.

Ghana, through the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), completed the National Disaster Risk Reduction Action Plan, in accordance to the UN’s recommendation to countries to develop strategies reduce the risk of disasters.

Mrs. Sandhu-Rojon, assured government of the UN’s support to fully implement the action plan which shows ways to protect infrastructure, farms lands, educational and health institutions against disasters, particularly floods and fire.

She encouraged the government to build on the partnership with other stakeholders in the area of disaster prevention, saying reducing the risk of disaster is a shared responsibility.
“We need to build a resilient nation to withstand disasters,” she said.

Mrs. Sandhu-Rojon, who was at the Castle to solicit the President’s commitment for the implementation of the plan, also invited the President Mills to the commemoration on World Disaster Risk Reduction Day in October.

President Mills, responding, thanked the UN system in Ghana for the continuous assistance, and expressed appreciation for the cooperation with NADMO which has culminated in the completion of the action plan.

“We are glad Ghana is among the leaders in the development of the action plan,” he said.

According to President Mills, many of the disasters that occur in Ghana were preventable, and affirmed his administration’s commitment to prevent and effectively manage disasters.

Kofi Portuphy, National Coordinator of NADMO, who accompanied the UN Resident Coordinator to the Castle, the action plan would enable his outfit to effectively eradicate factors to fuel disasters in the various sectors of the country.

Six envoys present credentials to President

Friday, September 9, 2011

By Edmund Mingle

President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday received Letters of Credence from six new foreign envoys to Ghana, with a call on them to work hard to boost the economic relations between Ghana and the respective countries.

He said there was need to take advantage of the gains made in the flourishing diplomatic relations to for more economic cooperation between Ghana and their nations.

Receiving the Credentials from the ambassadors separately at the Castle, Osu in Accra, President Mills said Ghana was fully committed to cooperate in areas that would accrue mutual benefits to Ghana and its partners, and urged the new envoys to help in promoting quality partnership between Ghana and their home countries.

The new Ambassadors are Maheyub Buyema Mahafu from Sahrawi, Ms. Sharon Bar-Li from Israel, Mrs. Irene Vida Gala from Brazil, Mekprayoonthong from Thailand, Carsten Nilaus Pedersen from Denmark and Mrs. Maria Susana Pataro from Argentina.

President assured the envoys of his administration’s support and cooperation to enable them to deliver, saying “we want to raise our relations to a higher pedestal.”

Reiterating his call for more south-south cooperation, he said “there is the need to combine our strengths for the benefit of our people.”

He thanked the countries like Denmark, Thailand and Brazil for the continuous cooperation and assistance offered Ghana in the areas of agriculture and health, and assured the governments of Sahrawi, Argentina and Israel of more trade from Ghana.

President Mills urged the envoys to feel at home and promote economic diplomacy since barriers to trade have to be removed to ensure economic growth.

He conveyed best wishes to the governments of the new ambassadors, and reaffirmed that Ghana would continue to provide the congenial atmosphere for investments from those countries to strive.
On the political front, President Mills gave the assurance that Ghana would continue to protect its peace and promote democracy and the rule of law, and assured other countries of support in enhancing their democracies and good governance.

The Ambassadors, in their responses, expressed appreciation to President Mills for accepting them to serve in Ghana, and promised build on the gains made in the relations between Ghana and their respective nations.

Ambassador Mahafu of Sahrawi said he was honoured to be representing his country in Ghana, indicating that Ghana remains an inspiration to Sahrawi in its forward march for stronger democracy and economic development.

He commended Ghana for the democratic and economic progress, and expressed optimism that Sahrawi would enjoy the support of Ghana and other nations to able to advance its national development.

Mrs. Bar-Li of Israel, for her part, thanked Ghana for the cooperation with Israeli investors currently operating in Ghana, believed that there was more for improvement for the ties between the two countries.

“We are here to consolidate our friendship,” she said.

Mrs. Gala of Brazil, was optimistic that she would receive the need support and cooperation from the government to enable her to give off her best in carrying out the critical mission of further developing the ties between Ghana and Brazil.

“Brazil is proud to be associated with Ghana in the efforts to eradicate poverty and enhance development,” she said, adding that “the areas of cooperation are as many as the number of common development challenges facing Ghana and Brazil.”

For his part, Mekprayoonthong of Thailand, promised to enhance the economic, social and cultural collaboration between the two nations especially in expanding cooperation in the areas of agro-processing, fish farming and infrastructure development.

Similarly, Ambassador Pedersen of Denmark, lauded the excellent relations between Ghana and Denmark, and assured Ghana of more development support from his that country.

Mrs. Pataro of Argentina, for her part, said “we are fully committed to work with all public and private sector institutions in Ghana in enhancing our bilateral ties, and we are thankful for your kind support in allowing us to achieve this goal.”

According to her, Argentina shared with Ghana concerns on major global challenges such as food security, climate change, terrorism, peace and security, indicating that Brazil was determined to continue to continue to partner Ghana to address challenges that adversely affect the welfare of the citizenry.
END

Forestry Commission steps up fight against chainsaw operators

From Edmund Mingle, Akim Oda.

The Forestry Commission is getting tough on illegal felling of trees, as it prepares to establish a Prosecution Unit to handle offences relating to the preservation of the nation’s forests.

The unit, when operational would ensure that the cases are properly prosecuted in the Court to secure severe punishments for the offenders.

It is part of the Commission’s medium to long term strategy to effectively fight illegal felling of trees, popularly known as illegal chainsaw operations, which is a major contributing factor in the fast depletion of the country’s forest cover.

Samuel Afari Dartey, Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, who disclosed the formation of the Unit to newsmen during his inspection of some plantations at Akim Oda in the Eastern region, explained that the setting up of the unit has become imperative since it would ensure that people with the requisite knowledge about forestry laws and issues handled such cases in Court.

He cited instances where offenders have been able to get away with the crimes, or handed meager fines by the Courts due to poor prosecution.

He was hopeful that the unit would start operation by the end of the year, indicating that “we are awaiting the approval from the Attorney General’s Department.”

In addition to the setting up of the Prosecution Unit, Mr. Dartey said the Commission has also been engaging the Judiciary on the need for more deterrent punishments for forestry offences.

According to him many of illegal chainsaw operators find the illegal timber business lucrative because the fines for such offences were not deterrent enough, and therefore, do not provide any disincentive.

As part of the inspection tour, Mr. Dartey, accompanied by other senior officials of the Commission, visited the Commission’s 118 hectare timber plantation at Essan Epam near Akim Oda, number of forest reserves, as well as privately owned timber plantations in the Eastern region.

He also visited a number of wood processing factors in the region where he discussed ways of maximizing the nation’s timber resources to fetch more revenue.

Andy Osei Okrah, Human Resource Director of the Commission, assured the staff of continuous support to enhance their capacity, indicating that the Commission would soon roll out comprehensive training programmes for them.

In addition, he said motors bikes have been procured for distribution to the guards to enhance their mobility in protecting the forests, while efforts were being made to improve their remuneration package.

The Forestry Commission of Ghana is responsible for the regulation of utilization of forest and wildlife resources, the conservation and management of those resources and the coordination of policies related to them.

The Commission embodies the various public bodies and agencies that implement the functions of protection, management, the regulation of forest and wildlife resources.

Ghana realised some 10.3million euros from the export of 31,663 cubic metres of wood products in June 2011, showing a decrease from the previous year’s revenue of 12.7 million euros gained from the 34,858 cubic metres of wood products.

END

President re-affirms support for GAF

Friday, September 2, 2011
By Edmund Mingle
President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday re-assured the Ghana Armed Forces of the government’s commitment to support them to be able to perform creditably to fulfil their constitutional mandate in the best interest of the nation.
He said the government has made important beginning in resourcing the GAF, and was determined to ensure that all plans were fully implemented to have the Forces adequately resourced
President Mills gave the assurance when he commissioned 105 new officers into the GAF at the Ghana Military Academy in Accra.
Justifying the relevance of the support being advanced to enhance the capacity of the Forces, he said explained that with the nation’s emerging oil industry, there was a need for the Navy and the Airforce to be adequately equipped to effectively protect the nation’s territorial waters.
Without the requisite support, he acknowledged that the Forces would not be able to achieve much.
To reciprocate the support being offered, President Mills reminded the members of the GAF to deliver to justify the increased investment in that sector.
He commended the GAF for the immense contribution they continue to make towards nation building, and urged the Officers to guide their subordinates to develop themselves in their chosen field.
President Mills, who reviewed the parade of the graduands, congratulated the new officers for the achievement, but reminded them of the responsibilities and challenges ahead.
He urged them to be obedient and disciplined, and protect the integrity of the GAF which is one of the best in world.
In addition, the President encouraged them to keep the integrity and reputation they had built during the course, adding they would have to work extra hard to maintain the virtues of military discipline, since they would be the future leaders of the Ghana Armed Forces.
President Mills also urged the new officers to help in enhancing the relations between the military and civilians since the civilians are vital stakeholders.
As part of the colourful event, President Mills gave prizes to distinguished new officers, with The Sword of Honour, awarded to the Best All Round Officer Cadet in the Regular Career Course 51, going to Senior Under Officer Kwame Owusu-Gyimah.
Out of the 105 new officers 71 are for the Ghana Army, 22 for the Navy and 12 for the Air Force.
In a message, the Commandant of the School, Real Admiral M. M. Tahiru, urged the new officers to remain loyal to the State and the people of Ghana at all times.
He also advised the new officers to improve on the knowledge and skills acquired and enhance their personal development aside their military career development.
END

Ghana and Botswana enhances friendly ties

Thursday, August 18, 2011

By Edmund Mingle
The governments of Ghana and Botswana yesterday agreed to re-activate their Joint Commission for Cooperation to advance economic partnership between the two nations.
The move was among a number of decisions taken during talks between President John Evans Atta Mills and Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, President of Botswana, at the Castle in Accra.
President Khama was in Ghana yesterday for a day’s State visit that aimed at strengthening Botswana’s ties with Ghana.
After discussing a wide range of bilateral issues, both Presidents affirmed their commitment to contribute to increased trade and partnership between both countries, which have been adjudged at among the fastest growing economies in the world.
They both agreed that there was a lot their nations could do together, and believe the reactivation of the Commission would create the necessary platform for a more beneficial economic cooperation.
Addressing journalist after their meeting which focused on collaboration in the areas of trade, agriculture, education, democracy and health service delivery, the two leaders gave the assurance their they would not allow the geographical gap between their nations to hinder effective economic cooperation.
President Mills noted that Ghana and Botswana had common development challenges, and that it was critical that they worked together to find common solutions.
“Our friendship should inure to the benefit of our people,” he said.
Reiterating his call for more intra-Africa trade, President Mills noted that Africa has enough resources which “we should work together to explore to the benefit of our people.”
Describing their discussions as a” useful one,” President Mills expressed appreciation for the visit by his counterpart, saying “we cherish our friendship with your country.”
President Khama, for his part, thanked Ghana for accepting to collaborate more with his country, and expressed his government’s commitment to the bilateral relationship.
He lauded Ghana’s economic and democratic progress, saying Botswana continued to draw lessons from Ghana.
President Kham expressed appreciation for the warm reception, and invited President Mill for a visit to his country.
Botswana was about three years ago adjudged the best fastest growing economy in Africa, and Ghana was recently adjudged the fastest growing economy in the world.
Botswana, with a population of about two million people, is one of Africa's most stable countries, and the continent's longest continuous multi-party democracy. It is relatively free of corruption and has a good human rights record.
It is also the world's largest producer of diamonds and that trade has transformed it into a middle-income nation.
END

Lonrho partners Ghana for oil services port project

Thursday, August 18, 2011

By Edmund Mingle
The government and Lonrho Plc, a multi-national firm have initiated a partnership move which is expected to lead to the construction of an oil services port to provide services to vessels that participate in the nation’s emerging oil industry.

The port is deemed to be critical to the industry since its availability would ensure that oil vessels that visit Ghana’s Jubilee fields secured efficient and timely maintenance services so as to avoid accidents.

In that regard, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on Tuesday between the government and Lonrho for a feasibility study for the project.

Alhaji Collins Dauda, Minister for Transport signed for the government, while Geoffrey White, Chief Executive of Lonrho initialled for his firm which has a vast experience in building of such ports to offer support services in the oil industry.

After the feasibility study which will to take about a year, the two parties would be expected to enter either a public-private partnership or joint venture agreement for the construction of the port.

The government would be required to provide the land area while Lonrho would handle the financial arrangements for the proposed project that would be situated close to the Jubilee field.

“This oil service port is vital for the effective operations in the country’s oil industry,” the Minister said, adding that the port would be dedicated solely to oil vessels.

“This will surely add value to the oil industry,” he stressed. For Lonrho, Mr. White is optimistic that the intended project, which he described as a one-stop-shop for shipyard services, would help the oil industry to contribute more towards advancing the national economy.

“Lonrho's strategy of investing in infrastructure can assist regional development, while adding shareholder value,” he said.

The firm, he said would draw strength from the its experience in other oil producing countries, particularly Equatorial Guinea where it built one of the largest oil service ports in the world, to execute the project in Ghana.

Built by Lonrho Plc, the Luba Freeport in Equatorial Guinea is a logistics centre for the burgeoning oil and gas industries in the Gulf of Guinea. It is a natural deepwater port situated in a large secluded bay providing depths of up to 45 metres on the southern side of Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea.

The Luba port is a joint venture between Government (37 per cent) and Lonrho Plc (63 per cent) and managed by Lonrho. Significantly, Luba is surrounded by open land, and that allows it to have room for expansion, in contrast to most African ports which are seriously congested, “city locked” and have no further land available to cope with the expanding African oil market.

END

Ghana Consolidated Diamonds bounces back

Thursday August, 18, 2011
By Edmund Mingle
The Management of the Great Consolidated Diamonds Ghana Limited (GCDGL) the company that won the bid to take over the affairs of Ghana Consolidated Diamonds (GCD) Limited at Akwatia in the Eastern region, says it is to deliver on its promise of revamping the company for the benefit of the nation.
According to the management, it is adequately prepared to operationalize its multi-dimensional strategy to revive the fortunes of the company which was once the main economic pillar in the region.
“We are ready for the task”, the management said.
GCDGL, will on August 23, officially commence mining operations after winning the take-over bid in which over 18 mining firms contested. GCD went under in 2007, leaving over 800 workers jobless.
The planned revival of the nation's only large scale diamond mine, it is in government’s ambition to revamp the diamond industry to contribute to the nation’s economic growth and advancement.
Describing the bidding for the collapsed company as a challenging venture, the management indicated in a statement, however noted that the outcome demonstrates the government’s confidence in Ghanaian firms to deliver when given the opportunity.
“We will endeavour to deliver on the trust imposed in us to justify the support being given to local firms to participate in the mining industry,” it said.
Apart from the main operations, he said the company has developed a comprehensive plan to ensure that sustainable employment was provided for the host communities.
Like many West African countries, Ghana has diamond resources, but it has yet to become a major producer. In 2009 the country produced 376,371 carats of rough diamonds with a total value of just under $7 million, representing a major decline in diamond production volumes in the country.
The traditional leaders of Akwatia and its surrounding areas have welcomed the new company, describing the commencement of operations as a lease of life for the area.
In a joint statement, the chiefs hoped the restart of operations of the mine would help in saving the local economy from total collapse.
“Ever since Ghana Consolidated Diamond (GCD) Limited closed down its operation in August, leading to the severance of almost a thousand workers, who, while in employment, kept the small town of Akwatia alive and functional the township of Akwatia is steadily and gradually becoming a ghost town hanging on critical life support in need of an urgent new lease of life.
“It is our prayer that the youth and people of Akwatia and the entire country will take advantage of the commencement of the operations of GCDGL to offers the opportunity related; direct and indirect services in other to contribute to socio economic development of the communities in particular and the country in general
END

Eckankar holds international seminar in Ghana

Monday, August 1, 2011.

By Edmund Mingle

Eckankar Ghana, is set to hold its international seminar in Accra in which more than 6000 members from across the globe are expected to attend.

Described as a soul searching gathering, the prestigious event, slated for August 5 to 7, has the theme, “waking up to the call of soul.”

It’s the biggest event on the Calender of Eckankar, the religion of light and sound which are the manifestations of the voice of God.

The rotational event among Eckankar member countries in Africa, and held in Ghana every eight years, provides the platform to share knowledge towards experiencing the love of God.

Held annually, the topics for the seminar are aimed at rejuvenating belief in the religion and helping participants to face the challenges of life more confidently.
Dr. Samuel Dufu, Regional Representative of the Spiritual Head of Eckankar, briefing journalists on the upcoming event, said they have prepared adequately for the international seminar.

He said the new 6000 capacity Temple is ready while other facilities such as accommodation have been arranged for to ensure the success of the event.

He said apart from Eckankar members, “all others are invited to come and listen to the speakers and experience the love of God.”

On the benefits of the seminar, he explained that the speakers would aid the participants to find keys to happier life and to strengthen their spiritual consciousness with God.

Touching on the perception that Eckankar is a form of occult, Dr. Dufu said that perception was very unfortunate because Eckankar is just like any church in Ghana.
“We are not occult,” he said, adding that “we believe in God as the Almighty and creator of the earth and giver of life.”

The only difference is that Eckankar is a religion of light and sound which are manifestation of God’s voice that guides his people through life.

Eckanker, he said teaches people to have an interrogative mind about life to enable them to discover who they really are so as to aspire to higher creativity.

“We help you to unlock your true potential with the spiritual laws of life,” he said, adding that through spiritual consciousness, one can hear and rely on the voice of God for guidance in life.

He challenged all those who have negative perception about the church to visit them and verify the claims for themselves.

“we stand for the truth, and the truth is the link that connect are religions,” he stressed.

Ga Mantse opens defence

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

From Edmund Mingle, Dodowa.

Dr Joe Blankson has opened his defence in the longstanding Ga Paramount Stool dispute pending before the Judicial Committee of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs at Dodowa in which a number of people are challenging his purported installation as Ga Mantse.

On Friday, when the committee resumed hearing, the first defence witness Nii Kwei Ashalley Agbafiotse from Bortianor told the panel that Dr Blankson was rightly nominated and installed as Ga Mantse.

Willie Amarfio, lead counsel for Dr Blankson who led the witness in evidence announced that he was the only one they intended “to bring the matter to a close.”

According to Nii Ashalley, who spoke through an interpreter, there are only three ruling houses in Ga Mashie, namely; Tackie Kome We, Amugi We and Teiko Tsuru We.

Explaining the process for the installation of a Ga Mantse, Nii Ashalley said his traditional cloth; representing the mantle of his authority is sent to the ruling house whose turn it is to ascend the throne.

He said the head of that family is informed by the stool elders about the passing away of the Ga Mantse and requested to nominate a candidate from that house to replace him.

In the case of Dr Blankson, he said he was chosen by the head of Teiko Tsuru We, because the family of his predecessor, Nii Amugi, sent the cloth to Teiko Tsuru We after his death in December, 2004.

Witness said when Dr Blankson was nominated by his family head, two others, whose names he did not mention, also announced the claim to the stool.

Therefore, he said a vetting committee, of which he was a member, was set up to select one person among the three claimants.

After the vetting process, Dr Blankson was declared as the most qualified for the position.

Nii Ashalley said he could not recall the contests of the committee’s report nor the exact date for its work because it happened five years ago.

He could also not identify a document showed to him by Mr Amarfio, which is said to be a copy of the committee’s report, saying he is illiterate.

Touching on the authority of Nii Owula Kpakpa Blofonyo, Asare Akwashongtse and Ga State Akwashong Mantse, (Chief Warrior), who filed the main suit against Dr Blankson Nii Ashalley said the office of the Akwashong Mantse, does not exist.

He said the office was abolished since the colonial era and, therefore, Nii Blofonyo had no capacity to sue.

He agreed to a suggestion by counsel that because the office of Akwashongtse is not recognised, there was no need for him to be involved in the installation of Dr Blankson.

The four petitions before the committee challenging the nomination and installation of Dr Blankson as the Ga Mantse have been consolidated into a single suit.

Nii Owula Blofonyo filed the petition on April 4, 2006, against Dr Blankson seeking a declaration that his purported installation as Ga Mantse in March 2006 is contrary to Ga custom, and therefore, be null and void.

Joined in that suit are; Nii Akropong III, Head of Teiko Tsuru We and Nuumo Tette, Ga Wulomo (Chief Priest), now deceased.

Mills wins landside

Monday, July 11, 2011

From Edmund Mingle, Sunyani.

With a landslide victory, President John Evans Atta Mills at the weekend obtained the mandate of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) in his bid for a second term in office, promising to help in solving the problems that threaten the progress of the party.

He won the party’s presidential primaries at the party’s Special National Delegates Congress in Sunyani, by 2,771 votes representing 96.9 per cent of to beat his only contender in the historic contest, Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings who had only 90 votes, representing 3.1 per cent.

The win at the peaceful congress makes President Mills the second presidential candidate to be elected for the 2012 elections, after the opposition New Patriotic Party chose its flagbearer last year.

Although massive win demonstrated the enormous support he enjoys among rank and file the party, as against the weaned loyalty for the former President Rawlings and his wife, President Mills said the victory is for the entire party.

“This victory is not for any person. It’s for all of us,” he told the Congress in his victory speech.

According to him, the contest for the flagbearship of the party has helped in revealing the issues that need to be addressed to ensure the progress of the party.

President Mills congratulated Mrs. Rawlings, for putting up “such a good fight which has helped us to come to terms with the issues confronting us,” saying “it is important for us to understand each other.”

“Let us leave here a united party. There should be no bickering, no name calling, no divisive tendencies,” he told the Congress which had the theme, “Unity in diversity for a better Ghana.”

Acknowledging that the real battle was for a win in the general elections, President Mills called for unity of purpose, and promised that he would do his part to ensure that progress of the NDC.

He thanked the delegates for the massive support, pledging that he reciprocate by working hard deliver on the party’s promises to Ghanaians so as to justify the party’s request for its retention in power.

“Your support cannot be taken for granted,” he said.

After the declaration of the results, a rather calm Mrs. Rawlings, demonstrated political maturity when she shook the hands of President Mills to congratulated him, after which his husband and Founder of the Party, former President Rawlings, who strongly supported his wife for the contest, also congratulated the victor, amidst loud cheers from delegates.

As expected, the Coronation Park where the event was held went into frenzy after the results were declared, as the rank and file of the party celebrated the victory, and the success of the congress.