Author: Daniel Sasu

  • Australia Appoints Veteran Diplomat Keara Shaw as New High Commissioner to Ghana

    Australia Appoints Veteran Diplomat Keara Shaw as New High Commissioner to Ghana

    Canberra/Accra – Australia has named seasoned career diplomat Keara Shaw as its next High Commissioner to Ghana, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and expanding cooperation with one of West Africa’s fastest-growing economies.

    The appointment places Ms. Shaw at the forefront of Australia’s diplomatic engagement with Ghana, where she will lead efforts to deepen collaboration in trade, investment, education, mining, security, and regional development.

    Announcing the appointment, Australian authorities described Ms. Shaw as an accomplished diplomat with extensive experience in international relations and foreign policy. She is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing Australia’s strategic interests while fostering stronger people-to-people and government-to-government partnerships with Ghana.

    As High Commissioner, Ms. Shaw will work closely with Ghanaian officials, the business community, and international partners to promote economic opportunities, enhance bilateral cooperation, and strengthen Australia’s presence in West Africa.

    Her appointment comes at a time when relations between Australia and Ghana continue to expand, particularly in the mining sector, where Australian companies remain among the leading foreign investors. Both nations also share interests in sustainable development, governance, education, and regional security.

    Ms. Shaw succeeds the outgoing Australian High Commissioner and is expected to assume her new diplomatic post in Accra in the coming months.

    The appointment underscores Australia’s continued confidence in Ghana as a key partner in Africa and reflects Canberra’s commitment to building stronger diplomatic and economic relations across the continent.

  • “Exorbitant Fees for Distance Learning Are Unsustainable” — Parliamentary Education Committee Raises Alarm Over Rising Costs

    “Exorbitant Fees for Distance Learning Are Unsustainable” — Parliamentary Education Committee Raises Alarm Over Rising Costs

    The Parliamentary Select Committee on Education has expressed serious concern over what it describes as exorbitant fees being charged for distance education programmes, warning that the trend could undermine access to higher learning for thousands of students across the country.

    During deliberations, members of the committee cautioned that the growing cost burden is making tertiary education increasingly unaffordable, particularly for working-class students who depend on flexible learning systems.

    Lawmakers argued that distance education—originally designed to widen access and reduce financial pressure—now appears to be drifting away from its core purpose due to escalating fees imposed by some institutions.

    The committee urged education stakeholders and regulatory bodies to step in and ensure that pricing structures remain fair, transparent, and aligned with national goals for inclusive education.

    Some members reportedly stressed that if the trend continues unchecked, it could defeat government efforts to expand access through digital and distance learning platforms.

    The issue is expected to be further examined in upcoming engagements between the committee, university administrators, and education regulators as pressure mounts for reforms in the sector.

  • DRAMATIC LASHIBI SHOOTOUT: Mobile Money Vendor Fatally Shoots Armed Robber, GH¢140,000 Recovered

    DRAMATIC LASHIBI SHOOTOUT: Mobile Money Vendor Fatally Shoots Armed Robber, GH¢140,000 Recovered

    A dramatic armed robbery attempt in Lashibi ended in a deadly shootout after a mobile money vendor reportedly fatally shot one of the suspected robbers and helped recover GH¢140,000, according to the Police.

    Police said the incident unfolded when armed suspects attempted to rob the mobile money vendor of a substantial amount of cash. During the confrontation, the vendor allegedly fought back, resulting in one of the suspected robbers being shot and killed.

    Following the incident, officers recovered GH¢140,000, believed to be the money targeted during the robbery, and launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack. Authorities are also working to identify and apprehend any accomplices who may have fled the scene.

    The Police have commended the swift response of officers and urged the public to remain vigilant, encouraging anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward as efforts continue to bring all those involved to justice.

  • “Don’t Blame Degrees—Blame the Economy!” Kwaku Asare Fires Back at Adutwum Over Ghana’s Graduate Unemployment Crisis

    “Don’t Blame Degrees—Blame the Economy!” Kwaku Asare Fires Back at Adutwum Over Ghana’s Graduate Unemployment Crisis

    Accra, Ghana – Renowned legal scholar and social commentator Kwaku Asare has delivered a stinging response to former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, insisting that academic degrees are not the problem behind Ghana’s growing unemployment crisis.

    Reacting to comments suggesting that university degrees may no longer guarantee employment, Asare argued that the real issue lies with an economy that continues to produce graduates without creating enough jobs to absorb them.

    According to him, blaming degrees for graduate unemployment is both misleading and unfair. Instead, he says policymakers should focus on fixing the country’s weak economic structure, which has failed to generate sustainable employment opportunities for the thousands of graduates leaving universities every year.

    “Don’t blame degrees—blame the economy that fails to absorb graduates,” Asare stressed, emphasizing that education remains a valuable investment when supported by a thriving economy capable of creating meaningful jobs.

    His remarks have reignited the national debate over unemployment, with many Ghanaians questioning whether the country’s economic policies are keeping pace with the increasing number of graduates entering the labour market.

    The exchange comes amid growing public concern over youth unemployment, underemployment, and the widening gap between higher education and available job opportunities. Analysts argue that while educational reforms are important, they must be matched with industrial growth, entrepreneurship support, and private-sector expansion to ensure graduates can transition successfully into the workforce.

    As discussions intensify, Asare’s message has struck a chord with many, shifting the spotlight from the value of university degrees to the broader challenge of building an economy capable of turning academic achievement into real employment.

  • Inferno at Tema Free Zones: Massive Fire Tears Through Melcom Warehouse, Sparks Panic

    Inferno at Tema Free Zones: Massive Fire Tears Through Melcom Warehouse, Sparks Panic

    A devastating fire ripped through a Melcom warehouse at the Tema Free Zones enclave, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and triggering an emergency response from firefighters. The dramatic blaze, which engulfed sections of the warehouse, raised fears of significant property losses as emergency crews battled to bring the flames under control.

    Witnesses described chaotic scenes as the fire spread rapidly through the facility, with workers and nearby businesses looking on anxiously while firefighters raced against time to contain the inferno and prevent it from reaching surrounding structures.

    Fortunately, despite the intensity of the blaze, no injuries or fatalities were reported. All personnel on site were safely accounted for, providing a measure of relief amid the destruction.

    The cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigations are expected to determine what sparked the incident. Authorities are also assessing the extent of the damage, with early indications suggesting substantial losses to goods stored inside the warehouse.

    The incident has reignited concerns over fire safety and emergency preparedness within industrial and commercial facilities at the Tema Free Zones, one of Ghana’s key manufacturing and logistics hubs.

    Officials have urged the public to avoid speculation as investigators work to establish the exact cause of the fire. More details are expected to emerge as the assessment continues.

  • Flood Fear Grips Greater Accra as Interior Ministry Issues Urgent Alert Ahead of Heavy Monday Downpour

    Flood Fear Grips Greater Accra as Interior Ministry Issues Urgent Alert Ahead of Heavy Monday Downpour

    Accra, Ghana – Residents of the Greater Accra Region have been placed on high alert after the Ministry of the Interior issued an urgent flood warning following forecasts by the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) predicting widespread rainfall across the region on Monday.

    The alert comes amid growing concerns over the potential for flash floods in flood-prone communities, with authorities urging the public to exercise extreme caution as the expected heavy rains could trigger dangerous flooding, disrupt transportation, and threaten lives and property.

    According to GMet, significant rainfall is expected to affect large parts of Greater Accra throughout Monday, raising the risk of overflowing drains, waterlogged roads, and severe traffic congestion during peak hours.

    The Interior Ministry has advised residents living in low-lying and flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, monitor weather updates, and be prepared to move to safer locations if conditions worsen. Motorists have also been cautioned against driving through flooded roads, while pedestrians are urged to avoid crossing fast-moving floodwaters.

    Emergency response agencies have been placed on standby to respond swiftly to any incidents arising from the anticipated rains, as government officials continue to monitor the evolving weather situation.

    The Ministry further appealed to the public to cooperate with safety directives and report emergencies promptly, stressing that preparedness and public vigilance are essential to minimizing the impact of any flooding.

    With memories of previous devastating floods still fresh, many residents are hoping the forecasted rains will not lead to another disaster as authorities race to ensure public safety across the capital.

  • “How Can You Expect People to Produce?” — Former Minister Adutwum Blasts GH₵2,000 Salaries, Sparks National Debate

    “How Can You Expect People to Produce?” — Former Minister Adutwum Blasts GH₵2,000 Salaries, Sparks National Debate

    A bold statement by former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum has ignited fresh conversations about low wages and productivity in Ghana.

    Speaking on the challenges facing the country’s workforce, Dr. Adutwum questioned how employers can realistically expect high levels of productivity while paying workers as little as GH₵2,000 per month.

    “You want people to produce for what market when you’re paying them GH₵2,000?” he asked, suggesting that inadequate salaries make it difficult for employees to stay motivated, meet their basic needs, and perform at their full potential.

    His remarks have quickly gained traction on social media, with many Ghanaians agreeing that the rising cost of living has made such salaries increasingly insufficient. Others argue that businesses are also struggling with economic pressures, making higher wages difficult to sustain.

    The comments have reignited the long-standing debate over fair pay, inflation, and the balance between employee welfare and business survival. Many observers believe the discussion highlights the urgent need for policies that improve workers’ purchasing power while supporting economic growth.

    As the debate intensifies, Dr. Adutwum’s remarks continue to resonate with workers across the country who say meaningful productivity must begin with meaningful compensation.

  • GOVERNMENT CLEARS MASSIVE $700 MILLION EUROBOND DEBT IN MAJOR FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH

    GOVERNMENT CLEARS MASSIVE $700 MILLION EUROBOND DEBT IN MAJOR FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH

    The government has successfully settled a staggering $700 million Eurobond debt, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to restore economic stability and strengthen investor confidence.

    The payment represents one of the country’s major external debt obligations and underscores the government’s commitment to honoring its international financial commitments despite ongoing economic challenges. Analysts say the move could improve the nation’s credit outlook, enhance its reputation in global financial markets, and pave the way for renewed investor interest.

    Officials describe the settlement as a crucial step in the broader debt management and economic recovery strategy, aimed at reducing financial pressures while creating a more stable foundation for long-term growth. The successful repayment is also expected to support ongoing negotiations with international financial partners and reinforce confidence in the country’s fiscal reforms.

    As the government continues implementing measures to stabilize the economy, the settlement of the $700 million Eurobond debt stands out as a landmark achievement with potentially far-reaching implications for the country’s financial future.

  • BEVERLY AFAGLO FUNERAL MOVED TO STATE HOUSE FORECOURT — ARRANGEMENTS SHIFT AS FINAL RITES DRAW NATIONAL ATTENTION

    BEVERLY AFAGLO FUNERAL MOVED TO STATE HOUSE FORECOURT — ARRANGEMENTS SHIFT AS FINAL RITES DRAW NATIONAL ATTENTION

    Accra — Funeral arrangements for Ghanaian actress Beverly Afaglo have reportedly been relocated to the forecourt of the State House, marking an unusual and high-profile setting for the final rites of the celebrated entertainer.

    The change in venue has sparked widespread attention, with mourners and industry colleagues expected to gather at the new location to pay their last respects to the late screen star.

    The relocation to the forecourt of the State House (Accra) underscores the national interest surrounding the passing of the actress, who was widely known for her contributions to Ghana’s film and entertainment industry.

    Beverly Afaglo, a prominent figure in the Ghanaian movie scene, built a reputation through her roles in film and television, earning admiration from fans and colleagues across the country.

    Organizers say the revised arrangement is intended to accommodate the anticipated large turnout and ensure a dignified and well-coordinated ceremony for family, friends, and the creative arts community.

    Tributes continue to pour in from the entertainment industry, with many describing her as a talented performer whose work left a lasting imprint on Ghanaian cinema.

    As preparations continue, the funeral is expected to draw significant public and media attention, reflecting her influence and legacy within the creative arts space.

  • “‘We Stand With You’ — MUSIGA Mourns Flood Victims, Calls for Urgent National Support”

    “‘We Stand With You’ — MUSIGA Mourns Flood Victims, Calls for Urgent National Support”

    The Musicians Union of Ghana has extended heartfelt condolences to victims of the recent devastating floods, urging the public and stakeholders to support ongoing relief efforts aimed at helping affected communities recover.

    In a statement, the union expressed sorrow over the loss of lives, displacement of families, and destruction of property caused by the heavy rains that have battered parts of the country.

    MUSIGA emphasized the need for unity in times of national crisis, calling on musicians, industry players, corporate bodies, and citizens to contribute in any way possible to support relief interventions.

    The association noted that artists often play a key role in national healing and solidarity, encouraging members of the creative industry to use their platforms to raise awareness and mobilize assistance for victims.

    The statement also highlighted the importance of long-term solutions to Ghana’s recurring flooding challenges, including improved infrastructure and stronger environmental management systems.

    As relief efforts continue, MUSIGA’s appeal adds to growing calls for collective action to support displaced families and rebuild affected communities.