All posts by Piesie Okrah

IGP pledges full investigation into alleged assault on Ibrahim Mahama

The Ghana Police Service has met renowned Ghanaian visual artist Ibrahim Mahama over an assault on him by police officers in Tamale.

The meeting which was called by the IGP, Christian Tetteh Yohonu, sought to help the Service investigate the issue.

The Police , alongside members of the Police Management Board, as part of ongoing efforts to address the incident, which reportedly occurred on March 21,  has assured the public of a thorough investigation into the claims.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, the Director-General of Public Affairs of the Police, DCOP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the IGP was committed to handling the matter.

She noted that the IGP had personally engaged Mr. Mahama, listened to his acount and reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to uncovering the truth.

“Following the incident in Tamale on the 21st of March, the Inspector General of Police extended an invitation to Mr Ibrahim Mahama. Today he came with a delegation to meet with the IGP and members of the Police Management Board,” she said.

DCOP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, addressing the Press

“The IGP listened to his side of the story, and he assured him that investigations will continue so we get to the bottom of this matter,” she added while noting that the Police Service had already initiated inquiries shortly after the incident came to the attention of the IGP.

“As soon as it came to the IGP’s attention, he directed the Police Professional Standards Bureau to commence an investigation, and we assured the public that both the criminal investigation and the professional conduct investigation would go on side by side,” she said.

She disclosed that significant progress had already been made at the regional level and officers have taken statements from Mr Mahama and his team, visited the scene of the alleged incident, and also checked on him at his residence.

Providing further updates, she said the IGP has now escalated the matter to ensure a more comprehensive probe.

“He has directed that the CID Headquarters to take over the investigation. He has also directed the Director-General of the Police Professional Standards Bureau to expedite action,” she stated.

“Our assurance to Mr Ibrahim Mahama is that the police are willing to work with him throughout the investigation process so we get to the end of this,” she said, adding an assurance of a “thorough investigation”.

She also revealed that Mr Mahama acknowledged his past relationship with the Police Service during the meeting.

“He recounted to the police how much the police have been useful to him in his business… and that he has been a friend of the police,” she noted, describing the incident as unfortunate.

 

Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Minister Condemns Alleged Assault on Ibrahim Mahama, calls for justice

The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has strongly condemned the reported assault on businessman and art patron Ibrahim Mahama, describing the incident as “totally unacceptable” and symptomatic of a troubling pattern of abuse.

In a public message addressed to Mr. Mahama, the Minister expressed “deep concern and regret” over the incident and conveyed solidarity on behalf of the Ministry and herself.

She emphasized Mr. Mahama’s significant contributions to Ghana’s creative sector, particularly through Red Clay Studio, noting that his work has elevated contemporary Ghanaian art and strengthened the country’s global cultural presence.

The Minister disclosed that she has engaged the Minister for the Interior, who assured her that the Inspector-General of Police has initiated investigations into the matter.

She stressed the need for accountability, stating that incidents that undermine personal dignity and safety must be treated with the utmost seriousness in a country that upholds justice and the rule of law.

Speaking in an interview on Citi Prime News, Hon. Gomashie revealed that she reached out directly to Mr. Mahama after learning of the incident through a colleague.

According to her, Mr. Mahama recounted his ordeal, after which she sought his consent to escalate the matter to the appropriate authorities.

She expressed dissatisfaction with recurring reports of alleged misconduct by security personnel, warning that failure to address such issues decisively could erode public trust.

“This is one too many,” she said, adding that while citizens may express frustrations with security agencies, it does not justify abuse.

She questioned the persistence of such incidents, citing past cases where alleged perpetrators were not held accountable. “Who is going to be next?” she asked, underscoring the urgency of systemic reform.

The Minister further highlighted Mr. Mahama’s standing as a respected figure with no known record of misconduct, noting that he had recently been honoured for his contributions to Ghana.

She argued that if such treatment could be meted out to a person of his stature, ordinary citizens might be even more vulnerable.

Beyond calling for investigations, the Minister assured that the Ministry is providing support to Mr. Mahama as he may require, adding that he has been offered assistance throughout his recovery and any subsequent pursuit of justice.

“We are a phone call away,” she said, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to the well-being of stakeholders within the creative ecosystem.

While cautioning against prejudging the outcome of investigations, the Minister noted that the visible evidence of harm has already evoked widespread public sympathy.

She called on the police to conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry and to ensure that any wrongdoing is duly punished.

The Ministry has also extended its concern to the broader public, reiterating its stance against abuse and its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all Ghanaians.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

Gov’t dismisses ‘sole sourcing’ claims, defends Big Push as lawful and transparent

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza, has firmly rejected claims that the government’s flagship Big Push Infrastructure Programme is driven by sole sourcing, describing such assertions as “mischievous” and inconsistent with the facts presented to Parliament.

Delivering an update to the House on Tuesday, the Minister stated unequivocally that all contracts under the Big Push programme have been awarded in strict compliance with the Public Procurement Act and its regulations. He stressed that procurement processes remain transparent, with full contractual details publicly accessible on the Ministry’s website.

The Minister revealed that contrary to claims of widespread sole sourcing, only 44 percent of major contracts, including those under the Big Push, were awarded through sole sourcing, while over 400 contracts have been procured through open competitive tendering. “It is therefore misleading for any right thinking person to conclude that the Ministry only relies on sole sourcing,” he told Parliament.

He explained that given the scale and urgency of addressing Ghana’s deteriorated road network, a mix of procurement methods was deliberately adopted within the bounds of the law to accelerate delivery and prevent cost escalations. According to him, strict adherence to lengthy procurement processes would have significantly delayed critical projects and worsened economic hardship.

The Minister further clarified that 23 major road projects worth GHS 14.88 billion, originally awarded under the previous administration but abandoned due to lack of funding, were incorporated into the Big Push programme and given new financing. These include key national projects such as the Suame Interchange, Ofankor Nsawam Road, and the Adenta Dodowa Road. He noted that many of these projects would have remained stalled without the expedited approach adopted under the programme.

On the structure of the programme, the Minister disclosed that the Big Push focuses on 12 major economic corridors, broken into 54 lots to enhance competition and speed up execution. Currently, over 2,000 kilometres of roads across all 16 regions are undergoing reconstruction or upgrading.

Addressing concerns about value for money, the Minister outlined multiple safeguards instituted by the government. These include in house survey, design, and costing by state agencies, saving billions of cedis, followed by independent value for money assessments of contractor proposals. He added that stricter monitoring systems have been implemented to ensure payments are tied strictly to work completed.

“We have established a system where no contractor will be paid without delivering measurable work,” he stated, adding that collaboration with the Ghana Institution of Surveyors is underway to strengthen independent cost verification capacity.

The Minister also dismissed criticisms based on simplistic “cost per kilometre” comparisons, noting that such analyses ignore variations in project scope, engineering complexity, and associated infrastructure such as interchanges and bridges.

He further emphasized that the Big Push programme operates under continuous parliamentary oversight, with regular questioning, committee engagements, and independent validation of project costs by professional bodies.

Hon. Agbodza contrasted the current approach with the previous administration, stating that many projects inherited in 2024 lacked commitment authorisation and were not subjected to competitive procurement processes, contributing to arrears exceeding GHS 40 billion. He disclosed that government has since paid over GHS 11 billion to clear part of these debts, the largest arrears settlement in recent history.

Reaffirming government’s position, the Minister declared: “There is no abuse of sole sourcing. It is the exception, not the norm. No procurement law has been breached, and there is no scandal.”

He urged Parliament and the public to support the programme, warning against attempts to undermine what he described as a transformative national intervention aimed at improving roads, reducing transport costs, creating jobs, and boosting economic activity across all regions.

“The Big Push is delivering the infrastructure Ghanaians demanded,” he said. “We must not allow misinformation to derail it.”

President Mahama to receive double honorary awards in US

His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, will be honored with the International Statesperson Award by the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia during a landmark visit on March 27, 2026.

This comes after US-based Lincoln University announced that it will confer an honourary doctorate on Mr Mahama next week.

It means President Mahama will receive two honours within the same week.

World Affairs Council Award

The award, the organization’s highest honor, recognizes global leaders whose work advances democracy, peace, and international cooperation.

The event, hosted in partnership with the U.S.-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, will take place at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring a special luncheon and award presentation.

The International Statesperson Award, first presented in 1973, has previously recognized prominent figures including Mikhail Gorbachev, Tony Blair, Bono, and Anwar Sadat.

The accolade celebrates leaders who have made a lasting impact on world affairs.

“President Mahama is deeply deserving of this recognition as a leader who has shaped the world for the better,” said Lauren Swartz, President & CEO of the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia.

The award highlights Philadelphia’s longstanding role in international engagement and underscores the city’s connections to global leaders.

President Mahama, who expressed gratitude for the honor, said, “I accept it on behalf of the people of Ghana and reaffirm our nation’s commitment to democratic values, international cooperation, and partnerships that advance peace and shared prosperity.”

Throughout his career, President Mahama has championed democratic governance, regional stability, and global engagement.

His influence extends across West Africa through his involvement with ECOWAS and other regional initiatives.

Domestically, he made history by becoming the first Ghanaian president to be elected to a non-consecutive second term in December 2024.

Philadelphia’s ties with Ghana are multifaceted. Ghana is a major West African economy and trade partner, accounting for an estimated $2.5 billion in U.S. goods trade in 2025, with exports growing over 32%.

Cultural and educational exchanges further strengthen the relationship, including trips by the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale and students from the Global Leadership Academy to Ghana.

Philadelphia is also home to a vibrant Ghanaian diaspora, and the Ghanaian national soccer team is set to compete in the city during the FIFA World Cup 26.

The recognition reflects both President Mahama’s international leadership and the growing economic, cultural, and educational partnerships between Ghana and the United States.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

Cape Coast MCE unveils vision to boost tourism under 8-year development plan

The Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) for Cape Coast, George Justice Arthur, has unveiled an ambitious vision to transform the historic city into a leading destination for tourism and investment.

He announced this during a Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly forum and fundraising event held at the Lancaster Hotel in support of the Cape Coast Eight-Year Development Plan (2026–2033).

Mr. Arthur reaffirmed his commitment to driving sustainable growth and repositioning Cape Coast as a vibrant economic and cultural hub.

Highlighting the city’s rich historical heritage and strategic significance, he noted its strong potential to attract both local and international visitors.

The development plan will focus on improving infrastructure, preserving and promoting key heritage sites, and creating an enabling environment for private sector investment.

These initiatives are expected to boost tourism, generate employment, and enhance the overall socio-economic development of the metropolis.

“Cape Coast remains one of Ghana’s most important tourism centres, and we must take deliberate steps to maximize its potential,” he stated.

The MCE assured residents that his administration would prioritize transparency and accountability in the use of funds, ensuring development financing produces tangible and meaningful outcomes for the people.

The event featured contributions from distinguished personalities who underscored the importance of the initiative.

Special guest Charlotte Osei, a Ghanaian lawyer and former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, emphasized the need for a renewed sense of ownership among residents.

She described Cape Coast as the “mother city of modern Ghana” and the “city of firsts,” urging stakeholders to work collectively towards a more prosperous future.

The Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North, Hon. Dr. Kwamena Minta Nyarko, highlighted the city’s strong educational foundation.

He noted that Cape Coast hosts some of Ghana’s most prestigious secondary schools and leading tertiary institutions, particularly the University of Cape Coast, which can drive innovation, research, and human capital development essential to the city’s transformation agenda.

Veteran lawyer Nana Ato Dadzie also called on city authorities to strategically harness Cape Coast’s human capital.

He stressed the importance of leveraging the talents and potential of students and graduates from the city’s renowned institutions to support development efforts, noting that investing in youth is critical for sustaining long-term growth and ensuring the success of the development plan.

The Cape Coast Eight-Year Development Plan is designed as a comprehensive roadmap to guide the city’s transformation, positioning it as a premier cultural, educational, and tourism destination in Ghana and the broader West African sub-region.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

Our evacuation operation in Israel has been a success – Okudzeto Ablakwa.

We have safely evacuated all Ghanaians who requested assistance from the Government of Ghana, bringing them back home from Israel.

The evacuation also included some diplomatic staff from Ghana’s Embassy in Tel Aviv, while the Government has decided to leave behind a few critical personnel to provide necessary consular support.

We extend our appreciation to the Israeli and Egyptian authorities for their cooperation.

We warmly welcome our compatriots who arrived in Ghana a few hours ago.

The Mahama Administration will continue its safe evacuation efforts, prioritizing the welfare of all Ghanaians.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

The National Identification Authority issues guidelines for user agencies on the security, storage, and retention of personal information

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has issued new guidelines on the security, storage, and retention of personal information obtained from the National Identity Register (NIR), effective Thursday, 19th March 2026.

The guidelines are issued under Sections 59 and 61 of the National Identity Register Act, 2008 (Act 750), as amended by the National Identity Register (Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act 950).

They mandate the NIA to provide guidance to user agencies on the secure storage, retention, and disposal of personal information from the NIR, and to prescribe retention periods for personal information used for administrative purposes.

The guidelines aim to secure and responsibly manage personal information, limit risks of unauthorized access or misuse, and ensure compliance with Ghanaian law and international data protection standards.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

Lincoln University to confer honorary Doctorate on President Mahama

Lincoln University has announced that it will confer an Honorary Doctorate on H.E John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana.

The US institution described President Mahama as an African Union Champion for advancing justice and reparations.

Mr Mahama will receive an honorary doctorate on March 26, 2026 in honor of   his exceptional contributions to public service, democratic governance, peaceful international and African relations, and global advocacy for justice, equality, and education.

The conferral highlights the shared mission between President Mahama and Lincoln University: expanding access to education, promoting social justice, and inspiring servant leadership across national borders.

“Lincoln University is deeply honored to welcome President John Dramani Mahama and to bestow upon him an honorary degree in recognition of his distinguished leadership,” said Dr. Brenda A. Allen, Lincoln University president.

She added that the event underscores the enduring global legacy of alumnus Kwame Nkrumah, whose vision for Ghana’s independence helped shape modern Africa, linking Lincoln University’s historic mission with Ghana’s ongoing development.

Ahead of the ceremony, President Mahama will address the United Nations General Assembly, where he is expected to present a landmark resolution seeking global recognition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade as the gravest crime against humanity.

Introduced to the African Union and UN in 2025, the resolution has been hailed by African leaders as a pivotal step in the global reparatory justice campaign.

Associate Professor Gnaka Lagoke, Chair of Lincoln’s Pan-Africana Studies Department, described the honorary doctorate as a “powerful symbol” of President Mahama carrying forward Kwame Nkrumah’s mandate, coinciding with a peak moment in his international advocacy for reparations.

President Mahama’s leadership record includes transformative infrastructure projects across Ghana, investments in education, health, ports, aviation, ICT, and oil and gas sectors, alongside initiatives to advance gender equality.

Under his administration, Ghana achieved gender parity in basic education and appointed women to key leadership roles, including the nation’s first female Vice President.

A recipient of multiple honorary doctorates worldwide—including from Ekiti State University, University of Aberdeen, and Lyon Business School—President Mahama continues to be recognized as a global role model in leadership and public service.

Aligned with his visit, Lincoln University’s Black Freedom Conference will host a screening of ‘The Eyes of Ghana,’ a documentary executive produced by Barack and Michelle Obama, highlighting the 1950s–60s liberation movement in Ghana through the lens of Christian Tsui Hesse, Kwame Nkrumah’s personal cinematographer.

Members of the press seeking coverage of the March 26 ceremony are requested to contact Athena Griffith-Howard at agriffithhoward@lincoln.edu by March 19, 2026.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

“The Immigration Formulae” book launched in Accra

Wonder Victor Kutor Esq. has officially launched his new book titled The Immigration Formulae.

The book aims to provide answers, information, and guidance for both prospective immigrants and non-immigrants worldwide, helping readers understand how immigration processes work in practice.

It simplifies a complex immigration system, turning it into a navigable roadmap.

“The author has incorporated practical materials that help readers understand how immigration actually works in practice. What makes this book even more special is that it is written by a Ghanaian who understands our aspirations and the practical realities many of our people face when navigating foreign immigration systems,” said Mr. Edward Yaw Udzu, President of the Ghana Publishers Association, during his speech at the launch.

The launch event was held at the Ghana Shippers Authority on 13th March 2026. Dignitaries in attendance included Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP for Damongo; Malik Basintale, CEO of the Youth Employment Agency; board members of the Volta River Authority; legal practitioners from the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions; traditional rulers from the Anlo State; students from tertiary institutions; and other invited guests.

The author, Wonder Victor Kutor, explained that his interest in immigration began in 2009 during his Senior High School education at Tema Methodist Day Senior High School (MEDAS), when he represented his school at the Model United Nations conference.

He added that his personal experiences traveling abroad for studies, as well as observing the lack of accessible resources on immigration law, inspired him to write the book.

As part of his recommendations, Kutor appealed for the introduction of a course such as Basic Introduction to Immigration Principles as part of the curriculum at law schools.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Ambassador to Togo praised the book as a valuable resource for all immigrants.

He commended the author for sharing his insights on immigration and urged him to make the book available on Amazon for wider accessibility.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

State-Owned Media: Vice President stresses critical role, urges innovation

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has emphasized the critical role of state-owned media in promoting transparency, accountability, and public understanding of government policies.

She made the remarks during an engagement with the Minister of Government Communications and heads of state-owned media agencies at Jubilee House in Accra.

The Vice President urged news agencies under the Office of Government Communications to prioritize accuracy and maintain high standards of credibility in their reporting.

She cautioned state media outlets against publishing distorted information, stressing the need to deliver content that is factual, balanced, and free from misinformation.

Madam Vice President also highlighted the importance of providing reliable and trustworthy news, noting that public confidence in state institutions largely depends on the integrity of the information they disseminate.

She encouraged agencies to adopt innovative approaches to storytelling, explaining that evolving audience demands require media organizations to remain dynamic and competitive.

“But at least if you give the public different ways to understand a particular topic, I think you also have a unique way of raising your profile. I know you are already doing a good job. We are always looking at ways in which you can improve,” she said.

“So again, I want to thank all of you for the work you are doing. I encourage you to do more. Know that we are here to support you in achieving more, not just for yourselves or your agencies, but for our beloved country, Ghana.”

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

President Mahama begins nationwide projects inspection tour

President John Dramani Mahama is embarking on a nationwide projects inspection tour starting Wednesday, 18th March 2026.

The tour, which begins in the Bono Region, will give the President the opportunity to engage directly with chiefs and residents, gathering firsthand feedback on his policy interventions.

Under the theme “Resetting Ghana Tour,” the President will visit Dormaa Ahenkro to break ground for the construction of a 24-Hour Economy Model Market. He will then inspect work on the Jinijini–Sampa Road before concluding the first day with a review of ongoing construction on the Sunyani Outer Ring Road.

On the second day in the region, the President will hold a community engagement session with chiefs and residents to receive direct feedback on government initiatives.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com

Ghana gas launches ladies’ association to promote gender inclusion in the energy sector

The Ghana National Gas Company has launched the Ghana Gas Ladies Association as part of activities marking International Women’s Day, reaffirming its commitment to empowering women and promoting gender inclusion within the country’s energy sector.

The stakeholder engagement event, held on March 11, 2026, brought together high-level dignitaries, industry leaders, and female students to celebrate the achievements of women and inspire the next generation to pursue careers in science, technology, and energy-related fields.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana National Gas Company, Judith Adjobah Blay, described the launch of the association as a major milestone for the organisation.

She noted that the initiative is aimed at strengthening female participation and professional excellence within the company while advancing gender inclusion across the broader energy industry.

“Today, I am filled with pride and excitement as we mark this significant milestone in our journey at Ghana Gas,” she said.

“Our mission is to support the professional growth, well-being, and leadership readiness of women at Ghana Gas through structured programmes, mentorship, advocacy, and collaboration that align with our organisational goals.”

According to her, the association will focus on enhancing leadership and professional development, promoting mentorship, and fostering a strong sense of community among female staff.

Delivering a speech on behalf of the Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, called for stronger collaboration among women’s associations within the energy sector to address the unique challenges women face in technical fields.

She emphasised that while the sector has traditionally been male-dominated, women must continue to push for opportunities while institutions create supportive environments that enable them to thrive.

“I am hopeful that the various ladies’ associations within the energy sector will continue to collaborate and support one another,” she said.

“We may not necessarily merge into one association, but given the relatively small number of women in the energy space, our collective efforts can create more opportunities for women to advance and develop their leadership potential.”

She also highlighted the need to address structural challenges that women in technical and industrial sectors continue to face.

“These challenges include access to specialised equipment and training opportunities, workplace safety concerns, and persistent stereotypes that sometimes discourage women from pursuing careers in science and engineering,” she noted.

According to her, institutions must continue to evolve to become more gender-sensitive and inclusive.

“The ladies’ associations within the sector, including the Ghana Gas Ladies Association, must take a firm lead in addressing these issues through deliberate and sustained action,” she added.

The ceremony attracted a prestigious lineup of government officials and industry leaders, signalling strong political commitment to gender inclusion within the energy sector.

Dignitaries present included Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture and Member of Parliament for Shama; Richard Gyan-Mensah, Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition; and Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff, representing Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.

Queen Mothers from the Greater Accra Region and Central Region, Ghana were also present. In addition, selected female students from various senior high schools in Accra were invited to attend the event to expose them to career opportunities within the STEM and energy sectors.

The launch also received strong solidarity messages from established female-led groups within the energy industry.

Among them were the Petroleum Ladies Association (PELA), the Electricity Company of Ghana Power Queens Club, as well as representatives from the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).

The groups emphasised that the creation of the Ghana Gas Ladies Association represents more than an achievement for a single organisation.

According to them, the initiative is a significant boost for gender inclusion across the entire energy value chain in Ghana.

 

Source: myxyzonline.com