Kwadwo Dickson

Stop disrespecting creative arts – Dzifa Gomashie slams Habib Iddrisu

The Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts,  Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has condemned remarks made by Member of Parliament for the Tolon constituency, Habib Iddrisu, during the vetting of Deputy Minister-designate for Agriculture, John Dumelo.

At the vetting held on February 25, 2025, Habib admonished John Dumelo, the Deputy Minister Designate for Food and Agriculture, not to treat his new job as the movie industry.

“You are not in your movie industry, try to be as serious as you can,” he said.

The comment has since drawn widespread condemnation from creative arts stakeholders, highlighting the industry’s longstanding struggle for respect and recognition.

Speaking at the launch of Heritage Month, organized by Citi FM and Channel One TV, Dzifa Gomashie expressed her frustration over the repeated disregard for the creative arts sector in political discourse.

“It’s not the first time my space is being disrespected – we need to value it and appreciate it! It’s part of who we are,” she stated, emphasizing the significance of the arts in Ghana’s cultural and economic identity.

Meanwhile, a press statement signed by Richard Yaw Boateng, National President of Film Directors Guild of Ghana (FDGG) also expressed outrage and disappointment over the comment, describing it as “reckless” and “unfortunate.”

Fire guts dormitory at Sakafia Islamic School

A raging fire has destroyed a dormitory block at Sakafia Islamic Basic School in Sawaba, Asokore Mampong Municipality, Ashanti Region, leaving students in shock and despair.

The fire, which broke out around 2 a.m. on February 28, 2025, started in one of the rooms, causing panic among the students. Fortunately, the housemaster acted swiftly, ensuring that all students were safely evacuated. No casualties were reported.

Firefighters arrived late but managed to prevent the flames from spreading to other parts of the school. Speaking to Citi News, on Friday, February 28, Senior Housemaster of Sakafia Islamic School, Umar Ibrahim recounted the situation stating, “The fire started around 2 a.m. when we were all asleep. I sleep in a separate room, while the students stay in a six-room dormitory. The children woke me up, and by then, most of them were still asleep. The senior housemistress and I had to quickly wake them up and help them escape the fire.”

The cause of the fire is yet to be revealed

‘Marriage is between a man and a woman’ – Mahama on anti-LGBTQ Bill

President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his unwavering support for the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, firmly asserting that only two genders—male and female—exist.

Speaking to the clergy in Accra on Friday, February 28, 2025, the President reaffirmed his commitment to what he described as the core principles of Ghanaian society.

“I believe in the principles and values that only two genders exist—man and woman. And that marriage is between a man and a woman,” Mahama declared, receiving nods of approval from religious leaders in attendance.

He further disclosed that consultations were ongoing with the Speaker of Parliament to reintroduce the Proper Family Values Bill, which seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities in the country.

“It is my hope that the consultation will lead to a renewed Proper Family Values Bill,” he stated.

The bill, which prohibits the promotion, advocacy, and funding of LGBTQ+ activities, was passed by the eighth Parliament but did not receive presidential assent under the previous administration of Nana Akufo-Addo. Economic Recovery and National Development

Beyond addressing social and moral concerns, President Mahama also outlined his administration’s commitment to tackling Ghana’s economic challenges. He emphasized a clear plan to restore financial stability, create jobs, and ensure economic resilience.

“Our immediate priority is to stabilize the economy and restore confidence in Ghana. We will stabilize our currency, bring down interest rates, reduce inflation, cut the deficit, and improve our financial standing,” he assured.

Mahama also highlighted the importance of agriculture in achieving economic self-sufficiency, stating that his government was focused on strengthening the sector.

“A nation that cannot feed itself cannot prosper. That is why we are making aggressive interventions in the agricultural sector. By modernizing farming techniques, investing in agro-processing, and supporting our farmers, we will lay a solid foundation for a prosperous future,” he added.

‘Blue Book’ launched to strengthen corporate insolvency and restructuring

In a bid to equip Ghanaian businesses with essential legal knowledge for navigating corporate growth and financial uncertainty, the book Companies, Corporate Insolvency and Restructuring in Ghana: The Law and Practice (Volume 1) has been officially launched.

Authored by Ace Anan Akomah et al., the book—also known as the Blue Book—serves as a comprehensive guide for businesses, legal practitioners, and policymakers, offering critical insights into corporate insolvency and restructuring.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, Her Ladyship Afia Serwaa Asare Botwe, Justice of the Court of Appeal, emphasized the crucial role of legal frameworks in ensuring economic stability.

“We are being given a transformative tool for Ghana’s legal and corporate landscape. The Book: ‘Companies, Corporate Insolvency and Restructuring in Ghana: The Law and Practice’ is more than a scholarly text. It is a practitioner’s lifeline, a compass offering clarity in the face of modern commercial demands.
My view is that this book is indispensable for every lawyer, judge and business leader,” she said. For her part, the President of the Ghana Bar Association, Afua Ghartey commended the authors and encouraged lawyers to create a niche for themselves.

“The times are upon us globally, where specialization is a must and practicing in ones area of expertise should be satisfying and rewarding .This will make the Bar competitive and attractive,” she quipped.

Gracing the night as the Chairman for the launch was astute legal practitioner Prof. Nana SKB Asante , Omanhene of Asante Asokore who urged investors to take particular interest in the book as they establish their presence in Ghana.

The book was edited by the esteemed Editor and legal luminary, Justice Professor S K Date-Bah alongside Ace Anan Akomah who was the Associate editor.

The other chapter authors are Professor AK Fiadjoe, Professor P Bondzi-Simpson, Felix Ntrakwah, Felix Addo, Jemima Oware, Domtie Sarpong and Felix Awuah.

Mahama working to permanently end dumsor – Gyan-Mensah

Deputy Energy Minister-Designate, Richard Gyan Mensah, has reassured Ghanaians of President John Mahama’s administration’s commitment to working tirelessly to end the country’s energy sector crisis.

Speaking to Channel One News in the aftermath of the President’s State of the Nation Address, Richard Gyan-Mensah accused the minority in Parliament of deliberately scheming to see President Mahama fail in his quest to end the frequent intermittent power outages, popularly referred to as ‘dumsor.’

He assured that, having visited the energy ministry following his nomination as Deputy Energy Minister, he is confident in the major plans being put in place to fix the power sector crisis.

“[President John Mahama] gave a picture of what he came to meet and provided assurances of what he is going to do in terms of resetting the country.

“I heard my colleagues make some remarks, especially regarding the issue of dumsor. This is what I perceive: there was a deliberate plan by the NPP to ensure that President Mahama fails when he came to power.

“I am assuring the people of Ghana that there is so much good work the new NDC administration is going to do for the people of Ghana.”

“This is the fifth State of the Nation Address I have witnessed, and I can boldly say it is the best one ever delivered since I became a Member of Parliament. The President was very straight to the point.

Richard Gyan Mensah, who is also a second-term Member of Parliament for Gomoa West, described the President’s State of the Nation Address as the best he has witnessed in Parliament.

Richard Gyan Mensah was recently nominated by President John Mahama as deputy energy minister. On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, he successfully underwent vetting and is now awaiting swearing-in.

2025 Super Zonals: Adisadel College sprints to victory in 4x100m Boys Heat 2

The 33rd Central Region Schools & Colleges Sports Association Athletics Super-Zonal Championship kicked off with a blaze of excitement on Day 1, February 27, 2025, as the boys’ 4x100m relay Heat 2 delivered a heart-pounding spectacle.

Under the bright morning sun at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium, Adisadel College emerged victorious, edging out fierce competitors St. Augustine’s College and Boa Amponsem Senior High School in a race that had spectators on the edge of their seats. The Super-Zonal Championships, a cornerstone of youth athletics in the Central Region, bring together the most talented student-athletes from schools and colleges across the area.

This year’s event promises to be one of the most competitive yet, and Heat 2 of the boys’ 4x100m relay set the tone with an electrifying display of speed, teamwork, and determination.

As the starting gun fired, the athletes exploded off the blocks, their strides synchronized in a flurry of motion. Adisadel College, known for its rich history in athletics, took an early lead with a seamless baton exchange between their first and second runners.

The team’s anchor, a lanky senior whose powerful strides ate up the track, crossed the finish line first, clocking an unofficial time that hinted at a potential record-breaking performance later in the finals.

Hot on their heels was St. Augustine’s College, a perennial powerhouse in Central Region sports. Their runners showcased impeccable coordination, with their third-leg sprinter gaining ground before handing off to an anchor who pushed valiantly to secure second place.

The crowd roared as St. Augustine’s made a late surge, but they couldn’t quite catch Adisadel’s lead.

Boa Amponsem Senior High School rounded out the top three, delivering a commendable effort that kept them in contention throughout the race.

Their team, though less heralded than their rivals, demonstrated grit and potential, earning applause for a strong showing against two of the region’s giants.

Post-race, the Adisadel camp was buzzing with excitement.

“We’ve been training hard for this moment,” said their coach, Kwesi Mensah, wiping sweat from his brow.

“The boys executed the plan perfectly—speed off the blocks and clean handoffs. This is just the beginning for us.” The team’s anchor, 17-year-old Kofi Ansah, added, “We knew St. Augustine’s would come strong, but we stayed focused. It feels amazing to take the win.”

St. Augustine’s, while disappointed to settle for second, remained optimistic. “It’s a long competition,” remarked their captain, James Ofori. “This was just the heats.

We’ll regroup and bring our best in the finals.

” The rivalry between Adisadel and St. Augustine’s, steeped in decades of athletic tradition, promises more fireworks as the Super-Zonal progresses.

Boa Amponsem’s coach, Madam Esther Nyarko, praised her team’s effort.

“We’re the underdogs here, but third place in this heat shows we belong. The boys ran with heart, and we’re aiming to surprise everyone before this is over.”

Joseph Andoh Kwofie powers Mfantsipim to 4x200m glory, declares himself Central Region’s Fastest

The 2025 Central Region Schools & Colleges Sports Association Super-Zonal Championships erupted into a frenzy of cheers and excitement on February 27 as Mfantsipim School’s boys’ 4x200m relay team clinched a stunning victory in the final race.

Leading the charge was none other than sprint sensation Joseph Andoh Kwofie, whose electrifying performance not only secured the win for the Kotokraba boys but also cemented his reputation as a rising star in Ghanaian athletics.

The race, held at the vibrant Cape Coast Sports Stadium, was a showcase of speed and teamwork, but it was Kwofie’s anchor leg that stole the spotlight.

As the baton hit his hand, the crowd erupted, sensing something special was about to unfold. With his trademark explosive strides, Kwofie surged ahead, pulling away from the competition with a ferocity that left no doubt about the outcome.

Crossing the finish line, he capped the triumph with a bold celebration, channeling Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic “SIUUUU” leap, much to the delight of the roaring spectators.

Mfantsipim’s victory in the 4x200m final was a testament to their depth and discipline, but Kwofie’s contribution was the undeniable highlight.

The team’s seamless baton exchanges and relentless pace set the tone, but it was Kwofie’s closing sprint that sealed the deal, leaving rivals from schools like St. Augustine’s College and Adisadel College in the dust. Post-race, the charismatic sprinter didn’t hold back, declaring,

“There’s no one in Central Region who is faster than me.” The statement, dripping with confidence, sent a ripple of excitement through the stands and sparked chatter among fans and foes alike. Kwofie’s dominance at the 2025 Super Zonals is hardly a surprise to those who’ve followed his meteoric rise.

Already the holder of the Central Region’s 100m and 200m records—clocking a blistering 10.02 seconds and 20.8 seconds, respectively—the Mfantsipim star has been rewriting the record books since his first year. Earlier in the day, he breezed to victory in the 200m final with a time of 21.31 seconds, further solidifying his claim as the region’s premier sprinter.

His performance in the 4x200m only added to the legend, proving he’s not just a solo act but a team player who thrives under pressure.

The Kotokraba boys’ triumph was a collective effort, with Kwofie quick to praise his teammates. “We’ve been working hard together,” he said, catching his breath after the race.

“The handoffs were perfect, and everyone gave their all. I just had to finish what they started.” Coach Kwame Appiah, beaming with pride, hailed the team’s chemistry, noting, “Joseph is our spark, but this win belongs to all of them. They ran like champions.”

For Mfantsipim, a school with a storied athletic tradition, the 4x200m win is another feather in their cap as they aim to dominate the Super-Zonals leaderboard.

West Ham beat Leicester at London Stadium; deepen Foxes relegation woes

West Ham followed up their impressive victory over Arsenal with a win against Leicester to increase the pressure on Ruud van Nistelrooy and his relegation-threatened side.

Tomas Soucek celebrated his 30th birthday with the opening goal in the first half, firing in a loose ball after Mohammed Kudus’ shot was denied.

The hosts then put the game beyond the struggling Foxes just before the break when Jarrod Bowen’s shot from a tight angle deflected in off Leicester defender Jannik Vestergaard, after Jamie Vardy’s header from a corner had hit the woodwork for the visitors.

The Foxes, who were looking to close the gap to safety to two points with a win, had made a positive start as Wilfred Ndidi saw a second-minute effort saved.

But the Hammers’ opener proved a real blow and they struggled to create pretty much anything of note after that. The defeat leaves Van Nistelrooy’s side second-bottom of the Premier League and five points from safety. West Ham, meanwhile, are 15th, with their back-to-back wins putting them level on points with Tottenham and Manchester United, comfortably clear of trouble.

President Mahama is interested in enhancing SESSA Games- Sports Minister

Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, says that President John Dramani Mahama is very much interested in enhancing the SESSA (Security Services Sports Association Athletics) Games.

The historic competition brings together top athletes from Ghana’s security services to compete across multiple sports disciplines and has served as a major hub for national athletes.

The Sports Minister said this in his speech delivered when the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Female Hockey Team paid him a visit after winning the 2025 Africa for Club Championship for the second year in a row.

Earlier in his speech, Kofi Adams, praised President Mahama for restructuring the Sports Ministry before adding that,

“The President is very much interested in us bringing back grass root sports and by so doing enhancing our SESSA Games and to encourage as many of the organizations to take cue and copy from what GRA has done so we will give much more opportunities to the younger ones.”

Abeka Lapaz: Motorists to face traffic disruption on N1 road on Saturday

The Department of Urban Roads has announced a temporary traffic disruption on the Abeka Lapaz section of the N1 (Tetteh Quarshie-Mallam Road) to facilitate the construction of a pedestrian footbridge.

The construction work is scheduled from Saturday, March 1, to Monday, March 3, 2025, between 10:00 PM and 3:00 am each night.

During these hours, one-half of the carriageway will be partially closed to allow contractor M/S Janson Bridging International BV to position a crane and lift the bridge’s bow into place.

In a statement, the department urged motorists to follow traffic management signs placed along the route and assured that officers from the Motor Traffic and Transport Division (MTTD) would be stationed at key points to assist with traffic flow.

The public is advised to exercise patience, as the project aims to enhance road safety along the N1 corridor, particularly for pedestrians.

The department apologized for any inconvenience caused and reaffirmed its commitment to improving infrastructure for safer road usage.

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