Kofi Ahovi

 Madam Deborah Sesime Adzoa Kufe was a retired teacher, church leader, community organiser, and devoted mother to many. She passed away after a long and meaningful life of service to God, family, and society. She was born on April 2, 1934, at Abutia-Kloe in the Volta Region to Presbyter B. K. Alifo, also known as Togbe Gbede, and Madam Monica Abra Nyagbenu, both natives of Abutia-Kloe. From early childhood, Madam Kufe was cherished by both her paternal and maternal families, a reflection of her warm spirit and the close kinship ties within her extended family. At barely two years old, she was taken to Sokode-Bagble by her paternal aunt, Gladys Afa Alifo, who raised her as her own daughter alongside her husband, Teacher Dzah. Following the dissolution of her aunt’s marriage, she later lived with her uncle, the goldsmith Kofi Dake, also known as Gbede Kofi, and his wife Yawonor at Likpe-Mate. In 1941, she returned to Abutia-Kloe to be with her ailing mother. Sadly, not long after her...

  By Kwame Mensah, Freelance Journalist   For decades, stories from Ashaiman, one of Ghana’s fastest growing urban communities, have mostly been told through national headlines that focus on crime, congestion, or political moments. While these reports capture certain realities, they often miss the everyday life, civic efforts, and cultural identity of the community.   A shift in community focused journalism is beginning to change that narrative. At the center of this change is Ashaiman.com, a local digital newsroom created to tell Ashaiman’s stories with accuracy, balance, and consistency.   Filling the Local News Gap   Like many urban areas in Ghana, Ashaiman experiences rapid growth but limited local media attention. National outlets often report only when major incidents occur, leaving gaps in coverage of sanitation issues, small businesses, youth initiatives, arts and culture, local governance, and community events.   Ashaiman.com was established to add...

 Accra came alive with colour, flavour and culture as the Maggi Waakye Summit once again brought together food lovers from across the country to celebrate Ghana’s most popular indigenous dish. Held on December 26, 2025, at the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park, the festival delivered a rich blend of food, music, art, games and community spirit, living up to its reputation as the biggest waakye festival in Ghana. The Waakye Festival is an annual event that brings people together to patronise waakye from different vendors while connecting and bonding over Ghana’s most popular meal. Over the years, it has grown into a major cultural and culinary gathering that celebrates not only food, but also community, identity and shared experiences. This year’s event attracted over 10,000 food lovers and featured more than 70 vendors, firmly placing waakye at the centre of Ghana’s culinary pride. From steaming bowls of perfectly prepared rice and beans to richly seasoned waakye stew and shito, patr...

  The National Road Safety Authority has announced that beginning 2026, vehicle owners will be required to remove broken-down vehicles from intercity roads and highways within 30 minutes to one hour. The directive follows concerns raised by road users over the dangers posed by parked or broken-down vehicles and trucks, which have been identified as a major cause of road crashes. Speaking in an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show on Tuesday, December 30, the Executive Director of the Authority, Abraham Amaliba, explained that the recently passed Road Traffic Amendment Bill contains provisions mandating vehicle owners to tow broken-down vehicles off the road within a specified time frame or face legal consequences. The stationary vehicles are also a cause of accidents, and the new law has also provided that coming next year, every vehicle owner must subscribe to a towing company, which means that once your car breaks down, you have 30 minutes, if it is in the city centre, to call a ...

  In a significant boost to the local economy, the Ghana cedi is entering the final days of 2025 on its strongest footing in 10 years. The currency has defied traditional seasonal trends of end-of-year depreciation, marking a dramatic turnaround that is providing much-needed relief to the nation’s private sector. For decades, the final quarter in Ghana has typically been characterised by a "forex squeeze" as importers scramble for dollars to stock shelves for the festive season. However, 2025 has seen a reversal of this pattern. Market data reveals that the local currency has not only held its ground but has actively clawed back value against major global benchmarks. The Numbers: A Comparative Triumph The scale of the cedi’s recovery is most evident when compared to the turbulent close of the previous year. Last week, the interbank market opened with the dollar at GHȼ11.50, the pound at GHȼ15.36, and the Euro at GHȼ13.47. By the start of this final week of December, those rat...

  The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has confirmed that it will begin the implementation of the value added tax reforms from 1st January 2026. This follows the passage and subsequent presidential assent given to the VAT Bill 2025. This development marks a significant overhaul to simplify the country’s tax system, consolidate laws, abolish the COVID-19 Levy, and improve compliance through digitisation in revenue administration. The law is also aiming for greater fairness and economic growth as the country makes progress to enhance domestic tax mobilization. The reform is part of the recommendations from the International Monetary Fund to reduce bureaucracies in tax collection. Key changes include unifying the flat-rate system, reducing effective rates, allowing deduction of GETFund/NHIL as input tax, and boosting revenue efficiency. This will also include the deployment of digital channels like the E-VAT for accurate collection. Speaking to Journalists on the new VAT, Commissioner fo...

  Six commercial drivers were arrested on Wednesday evening when the Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, led a taskforce operation to check drivers charging unapproved transport fares and enforce compliance with approved rates across parts of the metropolis. The operation, which began around 5:30 p.m., moved from the COCOBOD section of the Kwame Nkrumah Avenue in Accra’s Central Business District through to the Farisco traffic light, where passenger activity was intense due to peak-hour traffic and the high volume of commuters boarding vehicles to destinations including Kaneshie, Awoshie, Kasoa and Lapaz. During the exercise, the Mayor and the team walked through heavy traffic, stopping trotros and other commercial vehicles to enquire from drivers how much they were charging and cross-checking the figures with passengers onboard to confirm whether the fares matched the approved rates. The checks, according to the taskforce, revealed mixed compliance, with some drivers char...

  By Efo Small, a Steward of the Environment History remembers the Transatlantic Slave Trade as one of humanity’s darkest chapters. Between the 16th and 19th centuries, Africa was violently drained of millions of its people, shipped across oceans in chains, and reduced to a source of forced labour for foreign prosperity. The consequences were catastrophic: depopulation, broken societies, arrested development, and intergenerational trauma. Yet today, in Ghana - is living through another form of devastation. It does not come in chains or ships, but in excavators, mercury, and poisoned rivers. It is called ' galamsey' . And uncomfortable as it may sound, the long-term damage from galamsey may rival - or even surpass - the destruction of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. External Exploitation vs. Self-Inflicted Destruction The Transatlantic Slave Trade was driven primarily by external demand . European powers created the market, financed the ships, and controlled the global system. Af...

 ​ The recent statement by the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Tong Defa, regarding the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) has sparked public conversation in some sections of the media. While the Ambassador's concern is noted, it has become clear that his message of collaboration was largely taken out of context, overshadowed by a narrative that focuses disproportionately on nationality rather than the complexity of the crime itself. It is essential to acknowledge that ‘galamsey’ is a multifaceted issue involving a wide array of stakeholders, including both local and foreign actors. ​Deconstructing the Narrative ​Ghana's efforts to combat ‘galamsey’ are often hindered by the involvement of various nationals, yet the focus on Chinese citizens has remained singularly prominent. Speaking recently at a training workshop for editors and senior journalists, Ambassador Tong Defa observed that only a tiny segment of the Chinese population in Ghana is actually involved in illegal...

 The Ghana Chamber of Mines is urging the government to reconsider its position on the proposed royalty increase for the mining sector. Dr. Ken Ashigbey, CEO of the Chamber, says the industry is not opposed to the sliding scale, but is concerned about the timing and context of the proposal. Speaking in an interview after a media engagement in Accra, Dr. Ashigbey explained that the Chamber has had initial discussions with the government, including the Finance Minister, but more engagement is needed to find a mutually beneficial solution. We are not averse to the sliding scale, the challenge is at what point you're putting the sliding scale, and the context in which you are putting us," he said. A sliding scale tax is a type of tax system where the tax rate increases or decreases in line with the value or profitability of a particular activity, such as mining. In the context of the mining industry, a sliding scale tax would mean that the tax rate would be adjusted based on the p...

  International lawyer Evans Yaw Nyamekye has emphasized the importance of investing in Ghana's real estate sector in a safe and responsible manner. Speaking at the 3rd Ghana Property and Lifestyle Expo, he noted that Ghana is recognized for its stability, secureness, and safety of investments, but stressed the need for due diligence before investing. All over the globe, I focus on real estate in a safe, sensible way, because housing is key to what develops any nation," Nyamekye said, praising the organizers, Anna and Victoria Agyekum, for promoting Ghana's real estate sector. He encouraged stakeholders to leverage the platform to invest in Ghana's real estate, saying, "Every one need to embrace the skills and the expertise provided by the property expo." Nyamekye also highlighted the importance of a trusted platform, saying, "When you're investing in real estate, it's always important. It's quite helpful to have a platform that is trusted, r...

The Ghana Property and Expo has highlighted Ghana as a prime investment destination, with co-founders Anna and Victoria Agyekum noting growing interest from investors. We're growing with the audience, and people are interested in Ghana, people are interested in investing, and the undercurrent question is how to do so safely to ensure the investment is successful," Ann Agyekum said.  To make investments more accessible, the Agyekums called for government initiatives to support private sector developers in providing affordable housing units. "There's always an issue with affordability, the government needs to come up with more initiatives and strategies especially with working with the private sector," Victoria Agyekum said. They also highlighted the need for tax incentives to help developers with land acquisitions, making it possible for them to build more cheaply and pass on the benefits to customers.   AJ Akua Johnson, brand ambassador for the Ghana Property and...

  Ghana's public debt stock has risen sharply, increasing by over GH¢70 billion in just three months, driven by the cedi's significant depreciation against the US dollar in the third quarter of 2025. According to latest Bank of Ghana data, the total public debt has now reached GH¢684.6 billion, with projections indicating it could exceed GH¢700 billion by year-end if the cedi's struggles continue. The cedi's 24% loss in value against the US dollar in Q3 has largely fuelled this debt increase, undoing some of the gains made in Q2 when it appreciated by over 40%. This recent depreciation has wiped out some of the debt reduction achieved through prudent management and appreciation earlier in the year. Earlier in the year, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson had reported a significant improvement in Ghana's debt profile, citing prudent debt management and exchange rate appreciation, with debt declining from GH¢726.7 billion in December 2024 to GH¢613 billion by June...

Ghanaians can look forward to a merrier Christmas with cheaper fuel prices on the horizon. According to Gabriel Kumi, Board Chairman of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), global petroleum prices are falling, and consumers are set to benefit from mid-December. Speaking on PM Express Business Edition, Kumi said, "Fortunately, Ghanaians are going to have a very good Christmas in terms of petroleum prices, because already the indication is that the price of finished petroleum products is going down." He provided specific decreases in prices, noting that diesel has seen a 10% decrease, petrol has dropped by 6%, and LPG has also seen a 1-1.5% decrease. The only major condition for these reductions to reflect in pump prices is the stability of the Ghanaian cedi. If the cedi is held in check, then we can be sure that on the 16th of December, prices of petroleum products will generally go down," Kumi said. He explained that this drop will take the country throu...

  The Customs Brokers Association of Ghana (CUBAG) has renewed its commitment to professional excellence, technology-driven operations and strategic partnerships to support sustainable trade growth, following its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Koforidua. The AGM, which attracted customs brokers, regulators, traditional authorities and private sector partners, was held under the theme “Empowering Progress: CUBAG’s Commitment to People, Technology and Partnerships for Sustainable Growth.” Addressing the gathering, President of CUBAG, Nana Fredua Ofori-Atta, described the meeting as a significant milestone, marking the association’s third consecutive AGM and reflecting steady institutional progress for the 33-year-old professional body. He highlighted key achievements over the year under review, including enhanced member welfare, strengthened advocacy and expanded training programmes aimed at improving professionalism within the customs brokerage industry. As customs broker...

 The Vice President of Colombia, H.E. Francia Elena Márquez Mina, on Friday, 12th December 2025, led a high-level business delegation to the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) as part of efforts to explore investment opportunities and deepen bilateral trade relations between Colombia and Ghana. The delegation was received on behalf of the Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority by the Director of Port of Tema, . Tebon Zumah, along with management officials of GPHA. The visit aimed at identifying areas of mutual business interest while strengthening economic and commercial ties between the two countries. Vice President Márquez Mina underscored the critical role ports play in national economic development, stressing the need for stronger collaboration between ports in Colombia and Ghana to drive growth and shared prosperity. She noted that Colombia is pursuing a vision to reconnect with the world through strategic trade partnerships, adding that Ghana holds ...

 Maggi, in partnership with popular food brand Aduane Pa, on Saturday, December 13, 2025, hosted a colourful edition of the Maggi Fufu Party in the Park at Ghud Park in Accra, bringing together lovers of Ghanaian food, culture, and music. The event, which ran from the afternoon into the evening, was designed as a grand appreciation gesture to loyal Maggi consumers while celebrating Ghana’s rich culinary heritage. Speaking at the event, Deborah Kwabla, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager for Nestlé Ghana, said the inspiration behind the Fufu Party was to express gratitude to consumers who have supported the Maggi brand over the years. The inspiration for the Fufu Party that we are all experiencing this afternoon into the evening is basically to say thank you to our cherished consumers. Maggi has a close association with many Ghanaian cuisines, and today we are here with our partner, Aduane Pa, to bring the Maggi experience to life,” she said. She added that the vibra...

 MTN Ghana Foundation has officially inaugurated the Vegetable Center of Excellence, an investment exceeding GHC3 million, at the University of Ghana’s School of Agriculture. The facility, which was handed over prior to the national farmers' day celebration, will be managed by the agronomic solutions provider Defarmercist. It aims to equip students of the School of Agriculture and other Ghanaian youth with practical agricultural skills that will empower them to pursue careers in agriculture. The program will also provide students with practical skills in crop management, irrigation systems, and sustainable farming methods. Additionally, it will extend opportunities to unemployed youth and smallholder farmers seeking to expand their farms and enterprises. The solar-powered facility features three greenhouse structures, a fully equipped training and conference room, and administrative offices, along with boreholes and water reservoirs to ensure a sustainable and consistent water supp...

 For years, Newmont’s presence in Ghana has been defined not only by responsible mining, but by a deliberate effort to invest in people. From life-saving health interventions to transformative educational opportunities, the company’s community-focused initiatives continue to draw national recognition. In recent months, several reputable institutions have highlighted Newmont’s long-term commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable groups, affirming the company’s role as a strategic partner in Ghana’s social development agenda. Newmont’s sustained investment in uplifting individuals and communities, particularly the most vulnerable, has been acknowledged and affirmed by key partners. The latest of such recognitions came from the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), which highlighted Newmont’s long-standing support for hepatitis B vaccinations. Acknowledging the high prevalence and rapid spread of Hepatitis B in Ghana – and the urgent need for intervention to pr...

 The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, has declared Zoomlion Ghana Limited and its parent, Jospong Group, an indispensable partner to the nation, stating that modern governance and environmental health are inseparable from the Group's work. Speaking at the Jospong Annual Thanksgiving Service 2025, on Friday, December 12, at its Group head office at Ashaley Botwe-Nmai Djorn the Minister provided a sweeping endorsement of the conglomerate’s integral role in national infrastructure. As a nation, we cannot discuss environmental sanitation, waste management, public health, the green economy or modern local governance without acknowledging the remarkable contribution of the Jospong Group,” Hon. Ibrahim stated emphatically. He detailed the extent of the partnership, revealing that “through Zoomlion Ghana Limited and its sister companies, Jospong has become an indispensable partner to the 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblie...

  President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Michael Edem Akafia The President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Mr. Michael Edem Akafia, has called on government to urgently pass a Minerals Revenue Management Act to ensure greater transparency, accountability, and sustainable use of Ghana’s mineral wealth. He made the appeal during the 11th Ghana Mining Industry Awards (GMIA) held last Friday at the Movenpick Hotel in Accra. Addressing a distinguished audience of policymakers, diplomats, mining executives, and industry stakeholders, Mr. Akafia said the time had come for Ghana to adopt a structured framework similar to what exists for petroleum revenue. According to him, such legislation would strengthen public confidence in the management of mining proceeds and secure long-term benefits for both present and future generations. A Minerals Revenue Management Act will deepen transparency, improve accountability and ensure that mineral revenues are used more efficiently and equitably,” he ...

  The Ghana Chamber of Mines has expressed profound appreciation to the Government of Ghana for scrapping Value Added Tax (VAT) on exploration activities, an intervention the industry describes as timely, strategic, and essential for sustaining the country’s long-term mineral potential. The announcement was made during the 11th Ghana Mining Industry Awards (GMIA) held at the Movenpick Hotel, where Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, hailed the policy decision as a bold commitment to strengthening Ghana’s competitiveness as a mining investment destination. Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Ashigbey emphasised that the removal of VAT on exploration in the 2026 Budget is more than an administrative change; it represents a transformative incentive that will stimulate new exploration, de-risk investments, and help replenish the nation’s mineral reserves. This intervention is not just an administrative adjustment; it is a bold commitment to attracting new inves...

  Michael Edem Akafia, President of the Chamber The Ghana Chamber of Mines has renewed its call for stable and predictable mining policies, emphasising that long-term investment and sustainable industry growth depend heavily on policy consistency. The appeal was made during the 11th Ghana Mining Industry Awards (GMIA) held at the Movenpick Hotel in Accra. In his address, Mr. Michael Edem Akafia, President of the Chamber, underscored that Ghana stands at a critical point in its mining journey, one marked by global competition, heightened societal expectations, and the need for investor confidence. He noted that fluctuating regulatory frameworks, particularly in fiscal regimes, pose significant risks to mining companies whose investments span decades. Mining investments are capital-intensive, high-risk, and multi-decade in nature,” he stated, urging government to prioritise a consistent, transparent and balanced policy environment that supports both national interest and business gro...