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Author: Dave Shelton

  • Thomas Partey Crowned 2025 Ghana Footballer of the Year

    Thomas Partey Crowned 2025 Ghana Footballer of the Year

    Thomas Partey wins 2025 Ghana Footballer of the Year for the second time, after impressive performances for Arsenal.

    Image courtesy: Ghanasoccernet

    The elites of Ghanaian football gathered at the Accra International Conference Centre on June 14, 2025, to celebrate excellence at the 2025 Ghana Football Awards. Thomas Partey was crowned the 2025 Ghana Footballer of the Year, marking his second win after first claiming the award in 2019.

    Partey’s impressive performances for Arsenal, featuring in 35 Premier League games and scoring 5 crucial goals, solidified his selection over formidable contenders Antoine Semenyo and Iñaki Williams. Beyond his on-field brilliance, Partey was also recognized with the prestigious Football for Good Award, celebrating his profound philanthropic impact.

    Partey’s Philanthropic Efforts

    Partey shared the Football for Good Award with Brighton & Hove Albion defender Tariq Lamptey. Partey’s “Partey Foundation” initiatives have funded the construction of three new astroturfs in deprived communities and provided scholarships to over 100 young athletes. Lamptey was lauded for his consistent support for youth development programs in Accra, including recent donations of sports equipment valued at GHC 500,000.

    Other Winners

    Home-based Footballer of the Year: Razak Simpson (Nations FC), who also won Goal of the Year for his sensational 40-yard screamer against Hearts of Oak that went viral, garnering over 1 million views online. Simpson’s exceptional performances led Nations FC to a commendable 3rd place finish in the league.

    Ghana Premier League Goal King: Stephen Amankona (Berekum Chelsea) with 18 goals in 28 appearances, marking his most prolific season to date.

    Women’s Premier League Goal Queen: Mary Amponsah (Ampem Darkoa Ladies) with 25 goals in 20 matches, shattering the league’s previous scoring record set in 2022.

    Female Footballer of the Year: Doris Boaduwaa for her crucial contributions to the Black Queens’ AFCON qualifiers, scoring 4 goals, and her dominant performances for Ampem Darkoa Ladies, registering 15 assists in the domestic league.

    Men’s Team of the Year: Bibiani Gold Stars, who made history by clinching their first-ever Ghana Premier League title with a remarkable 72 points. Their ascent since their top-flight promotion in 2021 has been nothing short of phenomenal.

    Women’s Coach of the Year: Abu Kassim (Police Ladies), who guided Police Ladies to an unbeaten record en route to securing the Women’s Premier League title. Their star player, Mary Berko, was also recognized as the Home-based Female Footballer of the Year.

    Men’s Coach of the Year: Kwesi Appiah for his inspiring leadership of the Sudan national team, which saw them secure a historic qualification for the 2025 AFCON, defying expectations by securing their spot with a game to spare.

    CEO of the Year: John Peter Amewu (Hohoe United) for his visionary leadership that transformed his club into a financially stable and community-focused entity, attracting significant local investment.

    Most Vibrant Club on Social Media: Medeama SC, boasting the highest engagement rates among Ghanaian clubs on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, with an average of 500,000 weekly interactions.

    Best African International: Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain) following a phenomenal season where he clinched the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, and was a key player in PSG’s Champions League semi-final run, contributing 7 goals and 10 assists from defence.

    Special Fan Award: Francis Yaw Frimpong-Pooley (posthumous) for his unwavering passion for Asante Kotoko, serving as an inspiration to fans nationwide.

    The evening concluded on a high note, celebrating not just individual prowess but the collective vibrancy and growing stature of Ghanaian football.

  • 19 Arrested in Central Region for Illicit Drugs and Robbery

    19 Arrested in Central Region for Illicit Drugs and Robbery

    The Central East Regional Police command Police nab 19 suspects in Central Region drug bust and robbery crackdown.

    The Central East Regional Police command has arrested 19 suspects in connection with illicit drug trade and robbery activities within the Kasoa Dominase enclave and the Onion market in the Central Region.

    The operation, which took place on June 12, 2025, led to the arrest of Abubakari Ibrahim, Mohammed Awal, Shafiu Salisu, Hamza Amadu, Ali Adamu, Balhani Fuseini, Jamal Haruna, Zakari Abdulai, Abdul Aziz, Bera Kalidu, Moro Baki, Anthony Lucky, Razak Yussif, Sumani Issah, Sulley Mohammed, Abdul Salifu, Eliasu Bukari, Kamelo Muuk, and Osmanu Amadu.

    Exhibits retrieved during the operation include substances suspected to be Indian hemp, as well as controlled pharmaceutical drugs such as Tramadol and Red.

    All 19 suspects are currently in police custody, assisting with the investigation and will be put before court in due course.

    The Regional command commends personnel who embarked on the operation and encourages them not to relent in their efforts as far as crime combat is concerned.

    The Central East Regional Police Command entreats the public to provide relevant information to assist in its continued efforts to clamp down on the menace of illicit drug trade, substance abuse, and robbery activities in the communities in order to help maintain a safer environment.

  • GES Extends School Selection Deadline to June 25, 2025: A Detailed Update

    GES Extends School Selection Deadline to June 25, 2025: A Detailed Update

    The Ghana Education Service has extended the 2025 school selection deadline to June 25, 2025, giving students more time to choose their senior high schools.

    The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially extended the deadline for the 2025 school selection process to Wednesday, June 25, 2025. This extension gives final-year Junior High School (JHS) students more time to complete their Senior High School (SHS) selections, following the inclusion of private SHSs in the selection system.

    The decision comes as part of a broader policy shift by the government to include private SHSs in the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme starting from the 2026/2027 academic year. This initiative aims to improve access to secondary education and reduce overcrowding in public schools. By incorporating private SHSs into the Free SHS programme, the government hopes to alleviate infrastructure pressure on public schools and provide students with more educational options.

    In a circular issued on June 13, 2025, the GES directed Regional Directors of Education to communicate the new deadline to Metro, Municipal, and District Directors, and subsequently to all JHS final-year students through their school heads. The extension allows students additional time to make informed choices about their educational future.

    The GES has urged students to consult with teachers, parents, and guardians before finalizing their school selections. Existing guidelines and procedures remain unchanged, except for the updated school list that features selected private SHSs. A supplementary register containing the newly added private SHSs has been provided to aid students in their selection process.

    The inclusion of private schools in the Free SHS policy marks a significant development in Ghana’s education landscape. It is expected to ease infrastructure pressure on public schools and offer students more options. By providing a broader range of educational opportunities, the government aims to enhance the overall quality of education and ensure that more students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed.

    The extension of the school selection deadline gives students the necessary time to navigate the changes in the selection process. With the inclusion of private SHSs in the Free SHS programme, students now have more options to consider. The GES is committed to ensuring that the selection process is smooth and transparent. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the extended deadline to make well-informed decisions about their educational future.

  • The Evolution of Love and Marriage: A Transactional Perspective

    The Evolution of Love and Marriage: A Transactional Perspective

    Historically, love and marriage have always had transactional roots… Even today, many relationships still follow a ‘you do for me, I do for you’ model—just modernized.

    Image courtesy: onthetable (Facebook)

    Historically, love and marriage have always had transactional roots. From arranged unions and dowries to the postwar provider-homemaker dynamic, relationships were rarely just about love. Even today, many relationships still follow a “you do for me, I do for you” model—just modernized. Whether it’s emotional labour for financial security or lifestyle for loyalty, we may be more transparent now, but are we really doing anything new? Is love ever truly unconditional—or just a different kind of deal?

    A Shift in Dynamics

    As societal norms evolve, the nature of these transactions may change, but the underlying principle remains. In modern relationships, the exchange might look different, with both partners contributing in various ways. However, the question remains: are we truly breaking free from the transactional model, or are we just redefining the terms of the deal?

    The Complexity of Human Relationships

    Human relationships are complex and multifaceted, involving emotional, financial, and social exchanges. While some relationships may be built on mutual love and respect, others may involve more pragmatic considerations. The lines between love and transaction can become blurred, making it challenging to distinguish between genuine affection and calculated exchange.

    Ghana’s Own Story

    In Ghana, traditional relationships often involve a mix of love, family expectations, and financial responsibilities. The concept of “bride price” or “dowry” is still practiced in many cultures, highlighting the transactional aspect of marriage. While love and commitment are essential, the financial aspect plays a significant role in solidifying the union.

    The Role of Technology

    Technology has also changed the way we approach relationships, with dating apps and social media platforms creating new opportunities for connection and exchange. However, these platforms can also perpetuate transactional dynamics, with individuals seeking validation, attention, or material benefits.

    A Universal Question

    As we navigate the complexities of love and relationships, we must ask ourselves: can love ever be truly unconditional? Or are we just negotiating different terms in our modern relationships? The answer may lie in understanding that love and relationships are multifaceted, involving emotional, financial, and social exchanges.

    The Importance of Communication

    Effective communication is key to building strong, healthy relationships. By openly discussing our needs, expectations, and boundaries, we can work towards creating more balanced and fulfilling partnerships. This requires a willingness to listen, compromise, and adapt to changing circumstances.

    Conclusion

    Ultimately, the transactional nature of love and relationships is a nuanced issue, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. By acknowledging the complexities and evolving nature of relationships, we can work towards building stronger, more meaningful connections with others. Whether love is conditional or unconditional, the most important thing is to cultivate relationships that bring joy, support, and fulfillment to our lives.

  • Austria and Ghana Strengthen Ties for Gender Equality and Social Protection

    Austria and Ghana Strengthen Ties for Gender Equality and Social Protection

    Ghana and Austria strengthen ties to advance gender equality, child protection, and social protection through collaborative efforts.

    The Austrian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Jürgen Heissel, has paid a courtesy visit to the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, to explore potential areas of collaboration in advancing gender equality and social protection. The meeting aimed to discuss critical issues affecting vulnerable populations and identify opportunities for knowledge exchange and partnership.

    The discussions focused on several key areas, including child rights and protection, domestic violence and gender-based violence, cybersecurity and its impact on vulnerable groups, promotion of positive masculinity, importance of gender-responsive data for policymaking, and integration of gender and child-related concerns into national development planning.

    The Minister highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing work on a Legislative Instrument to support the implementation of the Affirmative Action Act, aiming to increase representation and equal opportunities for women in leadership and governance, both in the formal and informal sectors. Dr. Lartey also shared recent initiatives, including the launch of a daycare center to support working mothers and the revised National Gender Policy, which seeks to foster an inclusive and equitable society.

    Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in support of shared goals around gender equality, child protection, and empowering vulnerable populations. The Minister emphasized the Ministry’s cross-cutting role and its openness to building strong partnerships with both local and international stakeholders. The meeting underscores the importance of collaboration in advancing gender equality and social protection in Ghana.

  • Ghana’s Telecom Sector Set for Transformation: Minister Outlines Plans

    Ghana’s Telecom Sector Set for Transformation: Minister Outlines Plans

    Ghana’s telecom sector to see transformation through engagement-led leadership, with focus on improving network quality, reducing data prices, and increasing investment.

    The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has pledged to adopt an engagement-led leadership style to revitalize Ghana’s telecommunications sector. Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, Mr. George emphasized the importance of involving all stakeholders in decision-making processes to benefit the entire ecosystem.

    The Minister stressed the need for healthy and sustainable competition in the sector, which he believes will lead to better services and price reductions in the long term. To improve network quality, Mr. George has mandated all Mobile Network Operators to make critical investments in their networks over the next quarter. The regulator will conduct a rigorous quality-of-service assessment in the final quarter of the year, with defaulting operators facing sanctions.

    Effective July 1, 2025, all data bundles will experience a 10% increase. Specific bundle upgrades include Airtel Tigo’s 400 GHC bundle increasing from 195 GB to 236 GB, Telecel’s 400 GHC bundle increasing from 190 GB to 250 GB, and MTN implementing a 15% increase across all its data bundles and restoring the 399 GHC bundle from 92.88 GB to 214 GB.

    The Minister acknowledged the financial strain this may impose on network operators but expressed optimism about the positive outcomes for consumers. Mr. George is also working to rationalize tax components that contribute to the high cost of data, aiming to reduce the 39% tax burden on data prices.

    The Minister expressed gratitude to the CEOs of the three major telecom companies for their commitment to invest approximately $1.2 million in network enhancements by the end of the year. The National Communications Authority (NCA) has established a reliable billing verification system to prevent arbitrary price changes.

    Mr. George reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Ghana, stating, “I will serve you with heart, with sweat, and with blood.” With these initiatives, the Minister aims to transform the telecom sector, improve services, and make data more affordable for Ghanaians.

  • 24-Hour Economy Policy: Tema and Takoradi Ports to Operate Round-the-Clock- Prez. Mahama

    24-Hour Economy Policy: Tema and Takoradi Ports to Operate Round-the-Clock- Prez. Mahama

    Ghana’s Tema and Takoradi ports will begin 24-hour operations on July 1, 2025, to boost productivity and exports under the new 24-hour economy policy.

    The government is set to launch the national 24-hour economy initiative on July 1, 2025, and as part of this effort, Tema and Takoradi ports will begin operating round-the-clock. President John Dramani Mahama made the announcement during the Ghana Horticulture Expo on June 11, 2025.

    The President highlighted the importance of logistics and exports in Ghana’s economic transformation, stating, “We are implementing a game-changing strategy, the 24-hour economy, to unlock Ghana’s production potential across all sectors.” He added that the policy aims to boost productivity and revenue generation by promoting continuous economic activity, particularly in sectors like agribusiness and exports.

    The initiative is expected to benefit the horticulture industry significantly, enabling the swift movement of perishable goods like pineapples, vegetables, and herbs from farms to international markets. “This policy will provide the framework for continued production, processing, and logistics in horticulture,” President Mahama explained. “It allows perishable goods to move swiftly from the field to international shelves, thereby minimising losses and maximising value.”

    To operationalise the 24-hour services at the ports, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Agri-business, and the Ministry of Transport are working closely with key agencies, including the Ghana Revenue Authority, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, and the Ghana Shippers’ Council, he further disclosed.

  • “Remain Calm, Focused, and Malpractice-Free” – Minister’s Message to BECE Candidates

    “Remain Calm, Focused, and Malpractice-Free” – Minister’s Message to BECE Candidates

    Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu Sends Heartfelt Message to Candidates urging them to remain calm and avoid any form examination malpractices.

    As the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) commences today, June 11, 2025, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has extended a heartfelt message to the 603,328 candidates across the country. The exams will run until June 17, 2025.

    In a special wish, Mr. Iddrisu urged candidates to remain calm, focused, and determined, emphasizing the importance of avoiding any form of examination malpractice. “A heartfelt encouragement to all of them and a reminder that they should remain calm, focused, and determined, and avoid all forms of examination malpractice,” he said.

    The Minister advised candidates to treat the exam as a normal test of memory and knowledge, leveraging the skills and confidence they’ve acquired over the years. “They should just consider it as a normal test of memory. They have been studying over the years because of this day, and they only need to put their knowledge, skill, and the confidence they have acquired to the test,” he added.

    On behalf of the President and the people of Ghana, Mr. Iddrisu wished the candidates good luck and best wishes. “On behalf of the president, and on my own behalf as well as the people of Ghana, I want to wish them good luck and best wishes,” he said.

    The Minister described the BECE as a major milestone in the academic journey of the candidates, highlighting the importance of this examination in shaping their future. “Today is a significant milestone in the academic journey of these youngsters,” he noted.

    Mr. Iddrisu encourages candidates to believe in their abilities, stay focused, and approach the exams with confidence.

    This year’s BECE registration has swelled to 603,328 candidates nationwide, representing one of the largest groups of examinees in recent history.

  • Ghana’s President Mahama Implements Cost-Saving Measure: DSTV and Satellite TV Ban at Jubilee House

    Ghana’s President Mahama Implements Cost-Saving Measure: DSTV and Satellite TV Ban at Jubilee House

    President John Mahama has directed a ban on DSTV and other satellite TV subscriptions at the Jubilee House, citing cost-saving measures. Only local TV stations will be accessible.

    In a significant move to reduce non-essential public spending and promote fiscal responsibility, President John Mahama has directed a ban on DSTV and other satellite TV subscriptions at the Jubilee House. The Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye, confirmed that no office at the presidency is currently allowed to subscribe to pay-TV services.

    Details of the Ban

    The ban, already in effect at the presidency, is expected to be extended to all government agencies. In an interview with Evans Mensah on JoyNews, Felix Owusu Kwakye stated the move will help save significant costs and promote modesty in governance. Government offices will be limited to local TV stations only. “If you come to this house, there’s no office in this house that is allowed to subscribe to DSTV or any satellite television,” Mr. Kwakye said.

    Rationale Behind the Decision

    The government believes that this move will help eliminate unnecessary expenses and promote fiscal discipline. By cutting back on non-essential spending, the administration aims to make governance more efficient and transparent. “When you computed the cost, it was significant money,” Mr. Kwakye added.

    Future Plans

    More cost-cutting measures are expected soon as part of the administration’s efforts to make governance more efficient and transparent. Mr. Kwakye emphasized President Mahama’s commitment to making savings for the Ghanaian people and demonstrating modesty in governance. “This is a man deeply committed to making savings for the Ghanaian people. Governance necessarily involves taking tough decisions… but the citizenry must see corresponding levels of modesty on the part of government officials—and that’s what President Mahama is committed to doing,” he said.

    Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility

    The President’s directive underscores his administration’s commitment to prudent financial management and transparency. By eliminating unnecessary expenses, the government aims to ensure that taxpayer money is used effectively and efficiently. This move is part of a broader strategy to promote fiscal discipline and responsible spending across government institutions.

    Impact on Government Agencies

    The ban on DSTV and satellite TV subscriptions is expected to have a significant impact on government agencies. By limiting access to local TV stations only, government offices will no longer be able to subscribe to pay-TV services. This move will help reduce costs and promote fiscal responsibility across government institutions.

  • Broken Heart Syndrome Kills Men at Twice the Rate of Women

    Broken Heart Syndrome Kills Men at Twice the Rate of Women

    Men die from broken heart syndrome at twice the rate of women, with an 11% mortality rate compared to 5.5% for women.

    Image courtesy: Facebook, Science Explorist.

    Men are dying from broken heart syndrome, a condition triggered by extreme physical or emotional stress, at more than twice the rate of women, according to a University of Arizona study. This alarming trend highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of the condition, also known as takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

    While women are more likely to develop broken heart syndrome, men have a significantly higher mortality rate, with approximately 11% dying from the condition compared to 5.5% of women. The study suggests that men often develop the condition after physical stress, such as surgery or infection, which may contribute to the higher mortality rate.

    Broken heart syndrome can be triggered by a range of factors, including emotional events like the loss of a loved one or a breakup, physical stress like serious illness, and sudden shocks like a car accident or extreme fear. In rare cases, even positive stress, such as winning the lottery or a surprise party, can trigger the condition.

    The symptoms of broken heart syndrome can be similar to those of a heart attack, making prompt diagnosis and treatment crucial. Early recognition and intervention can help reduce the risk of complications, including heart failure, stroke, and irregular heartbeat.

    Raising awareness about broken heart syndrome and its triggers is crucial to preventing unnecessary deaths and complications, especially among men, who are disproportionately affected by this condition. Early recognition and education can help save lives.

    http://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.124.037219

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