Category: Industry

Accra: The Vice President and Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, says Ghana needs a new paradigm in natural resource contracts to ensure the nation maximises the benefits of her natural resources.

He said successive governments had often come under criticism for the type of agreements they entered into with external interests for the exploitation of Ghana’s natural resources.

In an address in Accra on Wednesday to outline his vision if he became the president of Ghana, Dr Bawumia provided measures, including value addition and Ghanaian ownership of the natural resources, to streamline the sector and ensure it brought Ghanaians the maximum benefits.

‘As president, I will usher Ghana into a golden age for the maximisation of the benefits from our natural resources like gold, lithium, bauxite, and so on.’

‘The key to doing this is value addition and Ghanaian ownership. We need a new paradigm in natural resource contracts,’ the NPP Flagbearer said.

Some of the key policies his govern
ment intended to implement are formalised, regularised and regulated environmentally sustainable small-scale mining.

‘About one million people are engaged in small-scale mining. Our goal would be to help grow small-scale mining companies into large-scale companies with capacity building and assisting them to access financing to acquire equipment.’

‘We can create many millionaires in the small-scale mining industry if we support them,’ he said.

‘My government will support the Minerals Commission and key stakeholders to formalise the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector with the objective of ensuring that the activities of the entire value chain are sustainably and responsibly done so that most of the gold produced by this sector can be sold to the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and be eligible to be part of the gold reserves of the Central Bank.’

In line with this vision, Dr Bawumia said his government would license all miners doing responsible mining and that district mining committees, including chie
fs, would provide initial temporary licenses to miners.

‘As long as miners mine within the limits of their licenses, for example, no mining in the river or water bodies, there will no longer be any seizure or burning of excavators.’

The event was on the theme: ‘Ghana’s Next Chapter: Selfless Leadership and Bold Solutions for the Future,’ which enabled the NPP Flagbearer to outline his vision and direction for the nation.

Mrs Rebecca Akufo-Addo, the First Lady, Wife of Vice President Hajia Samira Bawumia, former President John Agyekum Kufuor, former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Mike Aaron Oquaye, and Mrs Osei Frema-Opare, the Chief of Staff were in attendance.

The others include the National Chairman of the NPP, Stephen Ayensu Ntim, Mr Justin Kodua Frempong, General Secretary of the Party, former presidential aspirants, ministers of State, members of Parliament, Party Executives, Council of Elders of the Party, and the diplomatic community.

The Kofi Ohene Konadu Auditorium of the University of Profess
ional Studies, Accra (UPSA) where the forum was held, was filled to capacity with enthusiastic party supporters and sympathizers having to find space outside the auditorium.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Accra: Management of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has urged the public to disregard a false publication on GRA’s auctioning of COCOBOD’s chemicals and fertilizers.

The article alleged that Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) was unable to pay import duties on some agrochemicals, fertilizers and implements to be used in the enhancement of cocoa farming and this led the GRA to auction these items, resulting in dire implications to the cocoa season.

The GRA Management said the article was disingenuous and misleading and sought to draw conclusions not founded on facts.

It said the facts were that in April and May 2023, some agrochemicals and other items were imported into the country by COCOBOD.

These items overstayed at the State Warehouse and as a result were sent to the Uncleared Cargo List (UCL).

The statement said the items were gazetted as the law demanded.

However, because the agro products are essential commodities needed for effective running of the operations of COCOBOD, they were not allocated to a
different entity.

It said as such, although the containers were under UCL, GRA carefully considered the request from COCOBOD and the key role it played in the economy of Ghana and restored the items to them.

The statement said COCOBOD had, therefore, paid the required duties on the agrochemicals and no agroproduct of COCOBOD had been auctioned.

It further stated that GRA recognized the contribution of COCOBOD to the development of the country and would not carry out any action that was detrimental to its operations while at the same time ensuring that the Tax laws were applied fairly.

The management of GRA assured the public that they were committed to their mandate of revenue mobilization with integrity, fairness, and professionalism.

GRA urged media houses to verify any such information before publication.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Kpone: The Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Assembly (KKMA) has cut the sod for the construction of an ultra-modern market facility at Kpone in the Greater Region to boost trading activities in the municipality.

Mr Samuel Okoe Amanquah, the Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), explained that the existing market did not befit the area’s status, hence his administration’s resolve to reconstruct the facility into a modern trading centre.

The existing market had just a few sheds, shops and containers, therefore, was unable to supply all the needs of the residents, he said, and that thieves also continued to take advantage of the unprotected space to steal from traders.

He said the new edifice, when completed, would contain 120 lockable shops on the ground and first floors, 64 sheds at the centre of the market, a banking facility, and a pharmacy to create an enabling environment for trading.

Again, the eroded grounds of the lorry station adjacent to the market would be paved, with sheds created and office
s made available for the transport operators as well as washrooms for commuters.

The MCE indicated that logistics needed for the work to start had been made available, saying: ‘Now that we have approval from the Government who has voted GHS10 million for the construction of the new market’.

Construction works were estimated to take a maximum of 12 months, with the contractor assuring the Assembly of his resolve to complete it ahead of schedule within eight months.

Mr Joseph Akuerteh Tettey, the Member of Parliament for Kpone-Katamanso, pleaded with the contractor to stay within schedule and hand over the completed project, for effective trading to commence.

Ms Christina Teiko Ablade Kpobe, the Market Queen, commended the MCE for his effort, which would provide more spaces for traders to occupy.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Accra: Mr Joseph Boahen Aidoo, the Chief Executive of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), says over 500,000 hectares of Cocoa farms in Ghana have been lost to the Cocoa Swollen Shoot Viral Disease (CSSVD).

He said this was posing a major threat to the country’s cocoa production.

Mr Aidoo said measures have been put in place and continue to be implemented to address the issue.

The CEO made this known during a panel discussion at a partnership meeting of the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) in Amsterdam, where he shed light on the multifaceted challenges confronting cocoa production in Ghana.

Mr Aidoo, in addition to CSSVD, highlighted the detrimental impacts of illegal mining and climate change, which further exacerbate the decline in cocoa productivity and pose a great threat to the livelihoods of cocoa farmers.

‘The unregulated mining industry is causing deforestation, soil degradation, and water pollution, all of which are negatively affecting the growth of cocoa trees,’ he said.

He said coupled with this menace
was climate change which was having a devastating effect on cocoa trees, which are highly sensitive to temperature and weather patterns.

Mr Aidoo said the rise in temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and prolonged droughts were affecting tree growth and reducing their output.

He said to address the CSSVD challenge, COCOBOD instituted the Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme in 2018 to halt the spread of the disease, restore unproductive farms and ultimately improve the livelihood of cocoa farmers.

The rehabilitation programme involves identifying diseased farms, cutting down affected trees, replanting with disease-resistant cocoa varieties, compensating affected farmers, and promoting good agricultural practices.

The CEO stressed the importance of securing sustainable incomes for cocoa farmers, underscoring the Living Income Differential and the recent significant hikes in Ghana’s Producer Price for cocoa farmers as crucial advancements in this regard.

He said there was the need for a collective commitment ac
ross the industry to prioritize the sustainable incomes of cocoa farmers, backed by concrete action to ensure its realisation.

Mr Yves Brahima Koné, the Director General of Conseil du Café Cacao, urged the industry to show immediate commitment to addressing the issue, emphasizing that failure to do so could result in the industry succumbing to these challenges.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Delta has been recognised by Fortune witha ranking of eleventh on its Top 50 Most Admired Companies list.

Delta’s strong management and commitment to providing elevated experiences and premium products also placed it number one out of the eight airlines on Fortune’s list.

‘For 11 years in a row, the Delta team has earned a prominent spot on Fortune’s ranking of Most Admired Companies,’ said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. ‘This recognition is incredibly well deserved for the world’s greatest team who keeps soaring no matter what challenges they encounter on a daily basis.’

According to a press release issued Monday to the Ghana News Agency, Kingdom Concepts Consult in Accra, Delta scored 6.57 overall in the rankings; the next-highest score for a U.S. airline was 4.89.

‘To maintain an elevated level of operational excellence, Delta people propel the industry forward with the relentless focus on raising the bar at every stage of the travel journey,’ the release said. ‘Delivering safe and reliable service for our cus
tomers is what continuously promotes a culture of strong trust and performance. Our people are the reason that Delta is the most awarded airline in the industry.’

This past year, Delta scaled its investments to enhance the premium experience both in the air and on the ground. The airline is carrying out its industry-leading commitment to bringing fast, free Delta Sync Wi-Fi presented by T-Mobile to its entire global fleet and is introducing Delta Sync seatback, making seatback screens feel more like smart TVs.

Delta also launched multiple Delta Sky Clubs and oversaw major renovations and expansions at hubs, including JFK and LGA, LAX and SLC.

‘Delta has well proven its dominance in the industry with multiple recognitions, including Top U.S. Airline by Wall Street Journal, Cirium’s Platinum Award for high timeliness and operational excellence, and placing No. 1 in the Business Travel Magazine survey for the thirteenth year in a row, ‘ the release said.

Fortune collaborated with Korn Ferry on this survey of
corporate reputations. The publication began with about 1,500 candidates: the 1,000 largest U.S. companies ranked by revenue, along with non-U.S. companies in Fortune’s Global 500 database that have revenues of $10 billion or more. The assortment was narrowed to the highest-revenue companies in each industry, a total of 660 in 29 countries. The top-rated companies were picked from that pool of 660; the executives who voted work at the companies in that group.

To determine the best-regarded companies in 52 industries, Korn Ferry asked executives, directors, and analysts to rate enterprises in their own industry on nine criteria, from investment value and quality of management and products to social responsibility and ability to attract talent.

A company’s score must rank in the top half of its industry survey to be listed.

To select the top 50, Korn Ferry asked 3,720 executives, directors and securities analysts who had responded to the industry surveys to select the 10 companies they admired most.

They ch
ose from a list made up of the companies that ranked in the top 25% in last year’s surveys, plus those that finished in the top 20% of their industry. Anyone could vote for any company in any industry.

Source: Ghana News Agency

In an era of globalisation, the convergence of diverse cultures is increasingly evident across various facets of society. One intriguing intersection lies at the nexus of live casino gaming and Ghanaian hospitality.

This article investigates the dynamic fusion of these two seemingly disparate elements, exploring how they intertwine to create a unique and enriching experience for enthusiasts and visitors alike, using Betway live casino games as a relevant exemplar.

Live Casino Gaming: A Global Phenomenon

Live casino gaming has emerged as a global phenomenon, transcending geographical boundaries to captivate audiences worldwide; with the advent of advanced technology, players can now enjoy the thrill of Betway live casino games from the comfort of home or on the go.

The ‘live’ aspect adds an immersive dimension, permitting participants to interact with real dealers and other players in real time, thereby replicating the ambience of a physical casino.

Ghanaian Hospitality: A Cultural Gem

Ghana, known for
its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, exudes a distinct charm leaving a lasting impression on visitors. The country’s ethos of hospitality, rooted in the concept of ‘Akwaaba’ (meaning ‘welcome’ in the Akan language), permeates every aspect of daily life.

From vibrant festivals to heartfelt gestures of kindness, Ghanaian hospitality embodies inclusivity, generosity and a sense of community. Within this context, Betway has pioneered the establishment of live casino games in Ghana, seamlessly blending cutting-edge gaming technology with the warmth of Ghanaian hospitality.

The Fusion of Gaming and Hospitality

The convergence of Betway live casino games and Ghanaian hospitality offers a compelling synergy, creating a unique and immersive experience for participants. At the heart of this fusion lies the concept of entertainment as a universal language that transcends cultural barriers; whether one is a seasoned gambler or a novice enthusiast, the allure of immersive gameplay coupled with warm Ghanaian
hospitality adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

Central to the success of this fusion is a deep appreciation for cultural sensitivity and inclusivity: game developers and casino operators recognise the importance of incorporating elements of Ghanaian culture respectfully and authentically into the gaming environment.

This entails meticulous attention to detail, from the design aesthetics to the choice of music and imagery, confirming players feel welcomed and valued regardless of their cultural background.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

Beyond the realm of entertainment, the intersection of Betway live casino games and Ghanaian hospitality also fosters opportunities for community engagement and social responsibility. Casinos often collaborate with local initiatives and charitable organisations to give back to the communities they operate in; whether through donations, sponsorships, or volunteer efforts, these partnerships embody the spi
rit of Ubuntu – ‘I am because we are’ – and contribute to the socio-economic development of Ghana.

Cultural Exchange and Mutual Understanding

Moreover, the fusion of gaming and hospitality catalyses cultural exchange and mutual understanding; as players from diverse backgrounds come together to enjoy shared experiences, they gain insights into Ghanaian culture and values. Likewise, Ghanaians are exposed to different perspectives and customs, fostering a spirit of openness and tolerance. In this way, Betway live casino games transcend their recreational function to become a conduit for fostering global citizenship and cultural appreciation.

Future Prospects and Challenges

Looking ahead, the intersection of Betway live casino games and Ghanaian hospitality holds immense potential for further growth and innovation; as technology continues to advance, developers are exploring new avenues to enhance the immersive nature of the gaming experience while staying true to the principles of cultural authenticity and
inclusivity.

However, challenges such as regulatory frameworks, ethical considerations and socio-cultural sensitivities must be navigated thoughtfully to ensure that the fusion remains harmonious and sustainable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the convergence of live casino gaming and Ghanaian hospitality represents a fascinating synthesis of tradition and modernity, culture and entertainment. Through this dynamic fusion, participants are dually entertained and enriched by the shared experience of cultural exchange and mutual respect. As bridges are built between diverse communities, the world becomes a smaller, more interconnected place where the spirit of hospitality knows no bounds.

Source: Ghana News Agency