Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Kwabeng
TWO employees of Xtra Gold, a gold mining company operating at Kwabeng in the Eastern Region, have been arrested for severely assaulting one Alhaji Mustapha, a local businessman, last Sunday.
The suspects, Emmanuel Kandanumba and Dick Keli Agbenku, both aged 34, have been placed in police custody at Kwabeng pending further investigations and prosecution.
According to the victim, at about 10 a.m. that fateful day, he was on the way to his farm at Kwabeng and on the outskirts of the town, he realised that workers of Xtra Gold had piled up sand almost in the middle of the road so he parked his private vehicle off the road to give way to oncoming vehicles.
He said he then questioned the workers why they should heap the sand on the road to make it almost impossible for vehicles to pass and also destroy the road.
Alhaji Mustapha Boateng stated that his question infuriated the workers, and suddenly, Agbenku hit him on the head with a stick, which sent him to the ground after which Kandanumba and many others he could not identify, joined the two to beat him up mercilessly.
He said he was rescued by onlookers after which he lodged a complaint with the Kwabeng police for the arrest of the two suspects.
A medical report confirmed the assault.
When contacted, the Kwabeng police did not give further details but only said the suspects were in their custody while investigations were going on after which they would be arraigned.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
WEST AKYEM RETRIEVES INCANDESCENT BULBS (Page 28)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Asamankese
AN exercise to retrieve and destroy incandescent electric bulbs in the West Akyem District of the Eastern Region has begun at Asamankese with the destruction of 1,750 of those bulbs.
Under the exercise, which was conducted under the personal supervision of the District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr Kwabena Sintim-Aboagye, energy-saving electric bulbs were given out freely in exchange for the incandescent bulbs in a number of communities.
According to the DCE, the rationale behind the exercise was to ensure that only energy-saving bulbs were used in the district to help conserve energy, especially at this time of the year when the level of water in the Akosombo Dam continued to fall.
Mr Sintim-Aboagye, who said the exercise would cover all parts of the district, appealed to the people to co-operate for its successful implementation.
In another development, the staff of the West Akyem District Assembly, with the support of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, a private waste management company, has engaged in an exercise to clear Asamankese, the district capital, of filth.
The exercise, which was also led by the DCE and the District Employment Co-ordinator, Mr Daniel Ankoma Nti, witnessed the clearing of choked gutters and sweeping of other areas in the town, especially the market area.
Speaking after the exercise, Mr Sintim-Aboagye said it would be conducted periodically to make the town clean to attract foreign visitors, especially those currently in the country for the Ghana 2008 soccer fiesta, because of its proximity to Accra and also to befit its status as an emerging municipality.
The DCE expressed his appreciation to President J.A. Kufuor for upgrading the district into a municipality and gave the assurance that the assembly would do its best to ensure that the area become one of the cleanest municipalities in the country.
AN exercise to retrieve and destroy incandescent electric bulbs in the West Akyem District of the Eastern Region has begun at Asamankese with the destruction of 1,750 of those bulbs.
Under the exercise, which was conducted under the personal supervision of the District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr Kwabena Sintim-Aboagye, energy-saving electric bulbs were given out freely in exchange for the incandescent bulbs in a number of communities.
According to the DCE, the rationale behind the exercise was to ensure that only energy-saving bulbs were used in the district to help conserve energy, especially at this time of the year when the level of water in the Akosombo Dam continued to fall.
Mr Sintim-Aboagye, who said the exercise would cover all parts of the district, appealed to the people to co-operate for its successful implementation.
In another development, the staff of the West Akyem District Assembly, with the support of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, a private waste management company, has engaged in an exercise to clear Asamankese, the district capital, of filth.
The exercise, which was also led by the DCE and the District Employment Co-ordinator, Mr Daniel Ankoma Nti, witnessed the clearing of choked gutters and sweeping of other areas in the town, especially the market area.
Speaking after the exercise, Mr Sintim-Aboagye said it would be conducted periodically to make the town clean to attract foreign visitors, especially those currently in the country for the Ghana 2008 soccer fiesta, because of its proximity to Accra and also to befit its status as an emerging municipality.
The DCE expressed his appreciation to President J.A. Kufuor for upgrading the district into a municipality and gave the assurance that the assembly would do its best to ensure that the area become one of the cleanest municipalities in the country.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
FAMILY OF 5 DIE IN ACCIDENT (Page 21)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Asuboi near Suhum
TRAGEDY struck a bereaved family on Sunday night when an articulated truck fell on their private saloon car and crushed all five
of them to death at Mankrong, near Suhum in the Eastern Region.
The five siblings, made up of three men and two women, were returning to Accra from a family meeting, after concluding arrangements for the burial and funeral of their late father.
A family member of the deceased, Mr Kwabena Acheampong, who rushed to the scene, told the Daily Graphic that the five were natives of Nkwatia-Kwahu and were heading for Accra after the meeting where they firmed up the plans to bury their father this weekend.
At the time of going to press, their bodies were being conveyed to the morgue at the Suhum Government Hospital.
They all died on the spot when the Opel Vectra with registration number GR 3036 V, on which they were travelling, was run over by the articulated truck, a Benz, with double foreign registration numbers IIJ1880 BF AND IIJJ3534 BF. Both the truck and the private car were moving in the same direction.
The car was crushed under the articulated truck and the victims were trapped under it for many hours.
It took the combined effort of some foreign travellers and policemen from the Suhum Police Station almost 13 hours to retrieve the bodies from the wreckage. During the rescue operation, the driver of the articulated truck abandoned his vehicle and fled the accident scene.
The victims were identified as Lawrence Kom, Kwame Anum, Attah, Yaa Koranmaa and Akosua Oforiwa.
Chief Inspector A. Koranteng from the Suhum MTTU, who led the task force, told the Daily Graphic at the scene of the accident that the articulated truck, loaded with chippings of broken bottles, was travelling from Kumasi to Accra.
He said at Mankrong, near Suhum, while descending a hill, the truck bumped into four vehicles and finally fell on the Opel Vectra saloon car being occupied by the victims, killing all of them instantly.
TRAGEDY struck a bereaved family on Sunday night when an articulated truck fell on their private saloon car and crushed all five
of them to death at Mankrong, near Suhum in the Eastern Region.
The five siblings, made up of three men and two women, were returning to Accra from a family meeting, after concluding arrangements for the burial and funeral of their late father.
A family member of the deceased, Mr Kwabena Acheampong, who rushed to the scene, told the Daily Graphic that the five were natives of Nkwatia-Kwahu and were heading for Accra after the meeting where they firmed up the plans to bury their father this weekend.
At the time of going to press, their bodies were being conveyed to the morgue at the Suhum Government Hospital.
They all died on the spot when the Opel Vectra with registration number GR 3036 V, on which they were travelling, was run over by the articulated truck, a Benz, with double foreign registration numbers IIJ1880 BF AND IIJJ3534 BF. Both the truck and the private car were moving in the same direction.
The car was crushed under the articulated truck and the victims were trapped under it for many hours.
It took the combined effort of some foreign travellers and policemen from the Suhum Police Station almost 13 hours to retrieve the bodies from the wreckage. During the rescue operation, the driver of the articulated truck abandoned his vehicle and fled the accident scene.
The victims were identified as Lawrence Kom, Kwame Anum, Attah, Yaa Koranmaa and Akosua Oforiwa.
Chief Inspector A. Koranteng from the Suhum MTTU, who led the task force, told the Daily Graphic at the scene of the accident that the articulated truck, loaded with chippings of broken bottles, was travelling from Kumasi to Accra.
He said at Mankrong, near Suhum, while descending a hill, the truck bumped into four vehicles and finally fell on the Opel Vectra saloon car being occupied by the victims, killing all of them instantly.
Monday, January 28, 2008
REMOVE UPPER MANYA NPP EXECUTIVE ...Say some polling station chairmen (Page 17)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Koforidua
SOME of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) polling station chairmen in the Upper Manya Constituency in the Eastern Region have called for the removal of the entire executive of the party in the constituency.
They accused the executive, under the chairmanship of Mr Joe Sam, of corruption, incompetence, lack of transparency, selfishness and gross disrespect for the entire membership of the party in the constituency.
This was contained in a letter addressed to the Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP and copied to other stakeholders such as the National Chairman of the party, the Eastern Regional Representative on the Council of State, the Eastern Regional Minister, the District Chief Executive of Manya Krobo, the Presiding Member of the Manya Krobo Assembly and the party's parliamentary candidate for the Upper Manya Constituency.
According to the letter, they stated that if the executive members, especially Mr Joe, Sam were not removed from office, there was no way the party could win the constituency seat in the up-coming December elections.
They accused Mr Sam of usurping the role of the other executive members and running a one-man show by keeping the party's assets and logistics such as a truck, motor cycles and bicycles in his house instead of the party's office.
The polling station chairmen further alleged that Mr Sam manipulated the selection of delegates to the December NPP congress by replacing some of the delegates with people of his choice, adding that such an action had not gone down well with some members of the party in the constituency.
They said the situation was so bad to the extent that only members of the executive could contribute to discussion of issues affecting the party in the constituency, which, according to them, had undermined the democratic tenets of the party.
The polling station chairmen, who stated that the continued stay in office of the executive could result in the loss of the constituency seat for the fourth time running, therefore called for their immediate replacement to enable the party to win the seat, which had, for a long time, been occupied by the National Democratic Congress(NDC).
Mr Sam, for his part, denied all the allegations levelled against him and explained that the group calling for his removal was led by Messrs Forster Nartey, Moses Tetteh and George Gli.
According to him, Nartey and Tetteh contested for the position of constituency chairman, while Gli contested for the position of vice- chairman and they all lost the elections and had therefore become aggrieved.
SOME of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) polling station chairmen in the Upper Manya Constituency in the Eastern Region have called for the removal of the entire executive of the party in the constituency.
They accused the executive, under the chairmanship of Mr Joe Sam, of corruption, incompetence, lack of transparency, selfishness and gross disrespect for the entire membership of the party in the constituency.
This was contained in a letter addressed to the Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP and copied to other stakeholders such as the National Chairman of the party, the Eastern Regional Representative on the Council of State, the Eastern Regional Minister, the District Chief Executive of Manya Krobo, the Presiding Member of the Manya Krobo Assembly and the party's parliamentary candidate for the Upper Manya Constituency.
According to the letter, they stated that if the executive members, especially Mr Joe, Sam were not removed from office, there was no way the party could win the constituency seat in the up-coming December elections.
They accused Mr Sam of usurping the role of the other executive members and running a one-man show by keeping the party's assets and logistics such as a truck, motor cycles and bicycles in his house instead of the party's office.
The polling station chairmen further alleged that Mr Sam manipulated the selection of delegates to the December NPP congress by replacing some of the delegates with people of his choice, adding that such an action had not gone down well with some members of the party in the constituency.
They said the situation was so bad to the extent that only members of the executive could contribute to discussion of issues affecting the party in the constituency, which, according to them, had undermined the democratic tenets of the party.
The polling station chairmen, who stated that the continued stay in office of the executive could result in the loss of the constituency seat for the fourth time running, therefore called for their immediate replacement to enable the party to win the seat, which had, for a long time, been occupied by the National Democratic Congress(NDC).
Mr Sam, for his part, denied all the allegations levelled against him and explained that the group calling for his removal was led by Messrs Forster Nartey, Moses Tetteh and George Gli.
According to him, Nartey and Tetteh contested for the position of constituency chairman, while Gli contested for the position of vice- chairman and they all lost the elections and had therefore become aggrieved.
Friday, January 25, 2008
CPP TO PROVIDE JOBS — NDUOM (Page 17)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Koforidua
THE flag bearer of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom, has stated that the CPP would come up with a
policy that would provide jobs for the teeming jobless people.
He therefore called for support to enable the party to win this year’s general election.
Dr Nduom made the statement when he addressed drivers and passengers at Koforidua last Monday.
Dr Nduom, who was accompanied by Mr Felix Amoah, a one-time Eastern Regional Minister and other executive of the CPP, was in the Eastern Regional Capital to formally introduce himself to the people and solicit their support.
He said the CPP had identified unemployment as one of the main problems facing the nation and that the party would institute policies that would support the private sector to employ people of working age, adding that would go a long way to reduce poverty in the country.
“Formerly it was the state which was employing people but now things have changed and it is the private sector which is performing that function, so the CPP will give the necessary financial support to the private sector to deliver the goods”, Dr Nduom stated, to thunderous applause.
Dr Nduom was mobbed by the traders at the Central Market and assured them that it was time for them to vote for the CPP since they had already tried the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), adding that the CPP was the best party to bring progress to the nation.
Earlier, Dr Nduom stated at a press briefing that the CPP had mapped out a strategy that would enable it to win this year’s elections, adding that the party was now composed mainly of young people with dynamic leaders capable of leading the party to power.
With regard to his relationship with others who contested the flagbearership with him but lost, he said all of them had been supportive and were going round to spread the “good message” of the party to win the elections.
THE flag bearer of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom, has stated that the CPP would come up with a
policy that would provide jobs for the teeming jobless people.
He therefore called for support to enable the party to win this year’s general election.
Dr Nduom made the statement when he addressed drivers and passengers at Koforidua last Monday.
Dr Nduom, who was accompanied by Mr Felix Amoah, a one-time Eastern Regional Minister and other executive of the CPP, was in the Eastern Regional Capital to formally introduce himself to the people and solicit their support.
He said the CPP had identified unemployment as one of the main problems facing the nation and that the party would institute policies that would support the private sector to employ people of working age, adding that would go a long way to reduce poverty in the country.
“Formerly it was the state which was employing people but now things have changed and it is the private sector which is performing that function, so the CPP will give the necessary financial support to the private sector to deliver the goods”, Dr Nduom stated, to thunderous applause.
Dr Nduom was mobbed by the traders at the Central Market and assured them that it was time for them to vote for the CPP since they had already tried the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), adding that the CPP was the best party to bring progress to the nation.
Earlier, Dr Nduom stated at a press briefing that the CPP had mapped out a strategy that would enable it to win this year’s elections, adding that the party was now composed mainly of young people with dynamic leaders capable of leading the party to power.
With regard to his relationship with others who contested the flagbearership with him but lost, he said all of them had been supportive and were going round to spread the “good message” of the party to win the elections.
ENSURE ELECTIONS COME OFF PEACEFULLY — HUGHES (Page 17)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Koforidua
THE Speaker of Parliament, Mr Ebenezer Begyina Sekyi Hughes, has stated that since this year’s presidential and parliamentary elections would test Ghana’s democracy, it was the responsibility of the people to ensure that the event comes off peacefully.
This, he said, would preserve the peace the country was enjoying for a very long time.
The Speaker made the remark when he addressed participants of a parliamentary outreach programme in Koforidua during which parliamentary processes were explained to the participants, who in turn, asked questions on a wide range of issues.
The gathering brought together a cross-section of the society from the region as well as such dignitaries as the Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin, the Second Deputy Speaker, Alhaji Malik Alhaassan, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Afram Asiedu, some Members of Parliament from both sides of the political divide as well as district chief executives from the region.
The Speaker said over a decade ago, when Ghanaians embraced democracy as their chosen path of governance, the country had ‘tottered’, but progressively held on to advance as evidenced by the peaceful and democratic manner of political transition in 2000 and the subsequent elections in 2004.
Mr Sekyi Hughes said although Ghanaians should be commended for the political maturity they had exhibited so far by preserving peace in the country, they must not be complacent, but should rather assist the state structures to deliver during the polls.
“This year is an election year as it promises to test our steadfastness once more, and we all owe it a duty to stand for democracy, exercise our franchise and assist the structures of state to deliver.
“We are all one people with a common destiny, but probably differ in the mode that things should be done; Ghana is our nation and we must help to keep the peace for our generation and generations unborn,” Mr Sekyi Hughes stated.
The Speaker, who explained the works of Parliament to the participants, said the august House had its own problems, and added that as a way of solving the problems and strengthening its institutional capacity to perform its functions, an enhanced strategic plan, which was developed, had already been implemented.
In his welcoming address, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Afram Asiedu, said the programme was a clear manifestation of government’s commitment to the policy of grass roots participation in decision making to enhance good governance.
The regional minister, who also told the gathering about the numerous tourist attractions in the region such as the Aburi Gardens, Boti Falls, Umbrella Rock and the Big Tree, was of the view that participants would acquaint themselves with the proceedings in Parliament after the event.
Madam Katherin Meissner,the Resident Director of Friedrich Ebert Foundation, which supported the programme, gave the assurance that the foundation would continue to do so to promote democracy in the country.
She, however, asked the electorate not to be tempted to vote for someone that might bring immediate but non-sustainable benefits to them in their constituencies, but should rather vote for those capable and trustworthy to represent them and cater for their interest in Parliament.
THE Speaker of Parliament, Mr Ebenezer Begyina Sekyi Hughes, has stated that since this year’s presidential and parliamentary elections would test Ghana’s democracy, it was the responsibility of the people to ensure that the event comes off peacefully.
This, he said, would preserve the peace the country was enjoying for a very long time.
The Speaker made the remark when he addressed participants of a parliamentary outreach programme in Koforidua during which parliamentary processes were explained to the participants, who in turn, asked questions on a wide range of issues.
The gathering brought together a cross-section of the society from the region as well as such dignitaries as the Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin, the Second Deputy Speaker, Alhaji Malik Alhaassan, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Afram Asiedu, some Members of Parliament from both sides of the political divide as well as district chief executives from the region.
The Speaker said over a decade ago, when Ghanaians embraced democracy as their chosen path of governance, the country had ‘tottered’, but progressively held on to advance as evidenced by the peaceful and democratic manner of political transition in 2000 and the subsequent elections in 2004.
Mr Sekyi Hughes said although Ghanaians should be commended for the political maturity they had exhibited so far by preserving peace in the country, they must not be complacent, but should rather assist the state structures to deliver during the polls.
“This year is an election year as it promises to test our steadfastness once more, and we all owe it a duty to stand for democracy, exercise our franchise and assist the structures of state to deliver.
“We are all one people with a common destiny, but probably differ in the mode that things should be done; Ghana is our nation and we must help to keep the peace for our generation and generations unborn,” Mr Sekyi Hughes stated.
The Speaker, who explained the works of Parliament to the participants, said the august House had its own problems, and added that as a way of solving the problems and strengthening its institutional capacity to perform its functions, an enhanced strategic plan, which was developed, had already been implemented.
In his welcoming address, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Afram Asiedu, said the programme was a clear manifestation of government’s commitment to the policy of grass roots participation in decision making to enhance good governance.
The regional minister, who also told the gathering about the numerous tourist attractions in the region such as the Aburi Gardens, Boti Falls, Umbrella Rock and the Big Tree, was of the view that participants would acquaint themselves with the proceedings in Parliament after the event.
Madam Katherin Meissner,the Resident Director of Friedrich Ebert Foundation, which supported the programme, gave the assurance that the foundation would continue to do so to promote democracy in the country.
She, however, asked the electorate not to be tempted to vote for someone that might bring immediate but non-sustainable benefits to them in their constituencies, but should rather vote for those capable and trustworthy to represent them and cater for their interest in Parliament.
AMOABENG DONATES TV SETS TO 28 NPP CONSTITUENCIES (Page 16)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Koforidua
THE EASTERN Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Yaw Gyekye Amoabeng, has donated colour television sets to each of the 28 constituency offices in the region.
He also gave additional three sets of the television to three past regional chairmen of the party, including Nana Adi Ankamah, the immediate past Regional Chairman.
According to Mr Amoabeng, the donations, made recently at Koforidua, were to boost the morale of the staff of the offices and also to serve as a token reward for the past regional chairmen who, he said, had played significant roles that had tremendously improved the fortunes of the party in the region.
He told the regional executive and staff of the offices to help improve the fortunes of the party to maintain its position as the most formidable political party, not only in the region but the country as a whole.
“These are only token gifts to you and the offices and I hope you will continue to do your best to improve the lot of the party to make it a formidable force to win this year’s elections and continue with its programme of improving the living standard of the people”, Mr Amoabeng stated.
Nana Adi , on behalf of his colleagues, expressed appreciation to the regional chairman and said they all would do their best to enable the party win this year’s elections.
THE EASTERN Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Yaw Gyekye Amoabeng, has donated colour television sets to each of the 28 constituency offices in the region.
He also gave additional three sets of the television to three past regional chairmen of the party, including Nana Adi Ankamah, the immediate past Regional Chairman.
According to Mr Amoabeng, the donations, made recently at Koforidua, were to boost the morale of the staff of the offices and also to serve as a token reward for the past regional chairmen who, he said, had played significant roles that had tremendously improved the fortunes of the party in the region.
He told the regional executive and staff of the offices to help improve the fortunes of the party to maintain its position as the most formidable political party, not only in the region but the country as a whole.
“These are only token gifts to you and the offices and I hope you will continue to do your best to improve the lot of the party to make it a formidable force to win this year’s elections and continue with its programme of improving the living standard of the people”, Mr Amoabeng stated.
Nana Adi , on behalf of his colleagues, expressed appreciation to the regional chairman and said they all would do their best to enable the party win this year’s elections.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
KONOR OF MANYA GRATEFUL OF PREZ (Page 14)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Somanya
THE Konor of Manya Krobo, Nene Sakite, has expressed his people’s appreciation to President J.A. Kufuor for honouring his promise to create a new district, Upper Manya, out of the vast Manya Krobo District.
Nene Sakite expressed the appreciation at a grand durbar organised by the Manya Krobo District Assembly at Asesewa at the weekend, to formally announce the creation of the new district.
According to Nene Sakite, the creation of the new district would accelerate the development of the Manya Krobo area to make it possible for the people to have a fair share of the national cake.
Giving the history of the area, the Konor stated that Manya Krobo, which in the colonial era was a booming cocoa-producing area and also producing food crops and oil palm with big markets at Asesewa, Agormanya and Sekesua, had had as many as 60 of its villages ceded to its neighbouring districts of Yilo Krobo, Fanteakwa and Asuogyaman.
He said such a move had adversely affected Manya Krobo culturally, socially and economically. He appealed to the government to bring back such villages to where they belonged to make it possible for the area to have additional representation in parliament.
Nene Sakite was hopeful that the new district would be provided with the necessary amenities that would make it function effectively.
The Deputy Minister of Local Government, Rural Development and Environment, Alhaji Awudu Yirimia, said the district which would soon be inaugurated, would be provided with the necessary facilities to operate.
The Deputy Minister who said the government was doing its best to provide social amenities in the area, added that all the numerous projects that had either been completed or were being executed were from government initiatives and funding.
Alhaji Yirimia also gave the assurance that the government was looking into the ceding of Manya Krobo villages to its adjoining districts to see how best to resolve the issue.
THE Konor of Manya Krobo, Nene Sakite, has expressed his people’s appreciation to President J.A. Kufuor for honouring his promise to create a new district, Upper Manya, out of the vast Manya Krobo District.
Nene Sakite expressed the appreciation at a grand durbar organised by the Manya Krobo District Assembly at Asesewa at the weekend, to formally announce the creation of the new district.
According to Nene Sakite, the creation of the new district would accelerate the development of the Manya Krobo area to make it possible for the people to have a fair share of the national cake.
Giving the history of the area, the Konor stated that Manya Krobo, which in the colonial era was a booming cocoa-producing area and also producing food crops and oil palm with big markets at Asesewa, Agormanya and Sekesua, had had as many as 60 of its villages ceded to its neighbouring districts of Yilo Krobo, Fanteakwa and Asuogyaman.
He said such a move had adversely affected Manya Krobo culturally, socially and economically. He appealed to the government to bring back such villages to where they belonged to make it possible for the area to have additional representation in parliament.
Nene Sakite was hopeful that the new district would be provided with the necessary amenities that would make it function effectively.
The Deputy Minister of Local Government, Rural Development and Environment, Alhaji Awudu Yirimia, said the district which would soon be inaugurated, would be provided with the necessary facilities to operate.
The Deputy Minister who said the government was doing its best to provide social amenities in the area, added that all the numerous projects that had either been completed or were being executed were from government initiatives and funding.
Alhaji Yirimia also gave the assurance that the government was looking into the ceding of Manya Krobo villages to its adjoining districts to see how best to resolve the issue.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
KADE HOSPITAL SENSITISES TBAs, NURSING MOTHERS ... (Page 20)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Koforidua
IN line with its programme of reducing maternal deaths and infant mortality in the Kwaebibirem District, the Kade Government Hospital has organised a programme to sensitise the public to the issue of maternal deaths and infant mortality.
It brought together, traditional birth attendants (TBAs), expectant women, nursing mothers, chiefs and opinion leaders drawn from all parts of the district, especially villages and hamlets situated far away from health centres.
The participants, who were schooled on the various ways of preventing maternal deaths and infant mortality by doctors and nurses, in turn narrated the difficulties they encountered in saving the lives of women and newly born babies.
Addressing the participants, the Kwaebibirem District Director of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr Patrick Amo Mensah, expressed concern about the issue in the area which recorded 27 maternal mortalities in 2005, out of which 12 were caused by abortions.
He said the following year, 14 people also died from abortion-related cases and four from anaemia, while in 20007, 16 deaths were recorded, two of which were caused by abortion and six by severe anaemia cases during pregnancy.
Dr Amo Mensah stated that in order to reverse the trend, his outfit had to organise the programme to educate the public on the problem, especially on the need for pregnant women to register with the district mutual health insurance scheme (DMHIS) which currently had only 114 members.
He also expressed concern about the ages of pregnant women in the area, which ranged from as low as 18 to as high as 40, and asked relatives to send cases involving pregnant women and infants to the clinics on time.
While advising the TBAs to refer medical cases beyond their control to the hospital on time, he also appealed to pregnant women to attend antenatal care regularly with their husbands, and also sleep in insecticide treated nets.
The district director of the GHS implored nursing mothers to breastfeed their newly born babies exclusively for six months and also send them for weighing and immunisation regularly.
The Eastern Regional Director of the GHS, Dr Ebenezer Appiah Denkyira, gave an overview of the maternal and infant deaths situation in the region, stressing that many of them could be prevented if the victims were sent to the hospital on time.
He, therefore, appealed to the communities to ensure that such cases were not delayed at home, only to be sent to the hospital at the eleventh hour and in hopeless situations.
IN line with its programme of reducing maternal deaths and infant mortality in the Kwaebibirem District, the Kade Government Hospital has organised a programme to sensitise the public to the issue of maternal deaths and infant mortality.
It brought together, traditional birth attendants (TBAs), expectant women, nursing mothers, chiefs and opinion leaders drawn from all parts of the district, especially villages and hamlets situated far away from health centres.
The participants, who were schooled on the various ways of preventing maternal deaths and infant mortality by doctors and nurses, in turn narrated the difficulties they encountered in saving the lives of women and newly born babies.
Addressing the participants, the Kwaebibirem District Director of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr Patrick Amo Mensah, expressed concern about the issue in the area which recorded 27 maternal mortalities in 2005, out of which 12 were caused by abortions.
He said the following year, 14 people also died from abortion-related cases and four from anaemia, while in 20007, 16 deaths were recorded, two of which were caused by abortion and six by severe anaemia cases during pregnancy.
Dr Amo Mensah stated that in order to reverse the trend, his outfit had to organise the programme to educate the public on the problem, especially on the need for pregnant women to register with the district mutual health insurance scheme (DMHIS) which currently had only 114 members.
He also expressed concern about the ages of pregnant women in the area, which ranged from as low as 18 to as high as 40, and asked relatives to send cases involving pregnant women and infants to the clinics on time.
While advising the TBAs to refer medical cases beyond their control to the hospital on time, he also appealed to pregnant women to attend antenatal care regularly with their husbands, and also sleep in insecticide treated nets.
The district director of the GHS implored nursing mothers to breastfeed their newly born babies exclusively for six months and also send them for weighing and immunisation regularly.
The Eastern Regional Director of the GHS, Dr Ebenezer Appiah Denkyira, gave an overview of the maternal and infant deaths situation in the region, stressing that many of them could be prevented if the victims were sent to the hospital on time.
He, therefore, appealed to the communities to ensure that such cases were not delayed at home, only to be sent to the hospital at the eleventh hour and in hopeless situations.
FIGHTING HIV/AIDS IN EASTERN REGION ...(Page 20)
Story; A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Koforidua
IN the early 1980s, HIV/AIDS, one of the most dreadful diseases, started having its toll throughout the world.
Ever since, deaths related to that dreadful disease have been on the increase throughout the country, particularly in the Eastern Region.
The most disturbing aspect of the pandemic is that it has brought in its wake a number of orphans, some of whom have been infected with the disease, which currently has no cure, although medical researchers are doing their best to find a panacea to the pandemic.
The stigma associated with the disease of which the victims keep on growing lean each passing day before finally going to eternity, has resulted in some family members disowning some of the infected persons who are at times driven out from their homes.
To help curb its spread in the country, the Ministry of Health first set up an HIV/AIDS centre (Fevers Unit) at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, in Accra, the country's premier health facility. It later established other centres at the St Martins Hospital and the Atua Government Hospital, both in the Manya Krobo District in the Eastern Region, where specially trained medical personnel and paramedics have been posted to deal with the problem.
Due to the strategic positions of the St Martins and the Atua Government hospitals, situated near the intersection of three regions, Volta, the Greater Accra and the Eastern, numerous victims of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, particularly those from the Asuogyaman, Yilo Krobo, Manya Krobo, New Juaben and the Fanteakwa districts, all in the Eastern Region, as well as Dangbe West in Greater Accra Region, throng these two health facilities for counselling, testing and treatment.
Considering the suffering of the victims and the negative impact of the pandemic on society, the Konor of Manya Krobo, Nene Sakite II in collaboration with Life and Hope, a local non-governmental organisation (NGO), decided to come out with a number of initiatives to support the government’s intervention to deal with the pandemic.
The initiative entails the mobilisation of the queens of Manya Krobo in 1999 to take care of the domestic and educational needs of the orphans of victims, as well as vulnerable children, with the Konor as father of such children. The Ghana AIDS Commission and other organisations provided the financial support.
The queens, with Mannye Natenkie as the leader, are also helping in the training of the youth, especially girls, in vocational skills to generate income for their sustenance so that they do not rely on men to put their life at risk of contracting the HIV virus.
Nene Sakite, who was instrumental in roping in Family Health International, an NGO, to assist, in especially the provision of antiretroviral drugs, has also established a school, the Institute of Professional Counselling, at Odumase Krobo, which is staffed with Kenyan experts to offer a month’s course in psychological counselling to students after which the products would go to the communities to educate the people on all aspects of the pandemic.
The school, working in collaboration with Life and Hope Foundation and the Kenyan Institute of Professional Counselling, has just graduated its first batch of students. It is expected to be upgraded to a tertiary educational institution to offer a two-year Higher National Diploma programme in psychological counselling.
Addressing the maiden graduation ceremony, Nene Sakite asked the graduands to live up to expectation.
He said although funds were required for the success of the programme, more depended on ideas, leadership and appropriate strategies for which he was prepared to offer.
According to Nene Sakite, after all the interventions, he realised that there had been a missing link, lack of attitudinal and behavioural change by the people, so he decided to set up the school to train psychological counsellors to address the situation.
He expressed the hope that such an initiative would produce more counsellors for the communities.
The Director for Policy, Research, Monitoring and Evaluation of the Ghana AIDS Commission, Dr Sylvia Anie-Akwetey, stressed the need for proper counselling of HIV/AID patients and commended Nene Sakite for his initiatives.
For his part, the Executive Director of the Kenya Institute of Professional Counselling, Mr Joseph Ndungu, who led the team of Kenyan experts to the school, asked chiefs in the area to play active roles in HIV/AIDS eradication programmes.
A graduand, Mr Benjamin Boanu, said he had learnt new methods of counselling, and gave the assurance that he would spread the HIV/AIDS prevention, management and care and support message in the communities.
IN the early 1980s, HIV/AIDS, one of the most dreadful diseases, started having its toll throughout the world.
Ever since, deaths related to that dreadful disease have been on the increase throughout the country, particularly in the Eastern Region.
The most disturbing aspect of the pandemic is that it has brought in its wake a number of orphans, some of whom have been infected with the disease, which currently has no cure, although medical researchers are doing their best to find a panacea to the pandemic.
The stigma associated with the disease of which the victims keep on growing lean each passing day before finally going to eternity, has resulted in some family members disowning some of the infected persons who are at times driven out from their homes.
To help curb its spread in the country, the Ministry of Health first set up an HIV/AIDS centre (Fevers Unit) at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, in Accra, the country's premier health facility. It later established other centres at the St Martins Hospital and the Atua Government Hospital, both in the Manya Krobo District in the Eastern Region, where specially trained medical personnel and paramedics have been posted to deal with the problem.
Due to the strategic positions of the St Martins and the Atua Government hospitals, situated near the intersection of three regions, Volta, the Greater Accra and the Eastern, numerous victims of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, particularly those from the Asuogyaman, Yilo Krobo, Manya Krobo, New Juaben and the Fanteakwa districts, all in the Eastern Region, as well as Dangbe West in Greater Accra Region, throng these two health facilities for counselling, testing and treatment.
Considering the suffering of the victims and the negative impact of the pandemic on society, the Konor of Manya Krobo, Nene Sakite II in collaboration with Life and Hope, a local non-governmental organisation (NGO), decided to come out with a number of initiatives to support the government’s intervention to deal with the pandemic.
The initiative entails the mobilisation of the queens of Manya Krobo in 1999 to take care of the domestic and educational needs of the orphans of victims, as well as vulnerable children, with the Konor as father of such children. The Ghana AIDS Commission and other organisations provided the financial support.
The queens, with Mannye Natenkie as the leader, are also helping in the training of the youth, especially girls, in vocational skills to generate income for their sustenance so that they do not rely on men to put their life at risk of contracting the HIV virus.
Nene Sakite, who was instrumental in roping in Family Health International, an NGO, to assist, in especially the provision of antiretroviral drugs, has also established a school, the Institute of Professional Counselling, at Odumase Krobo, which is staffed with Kenyan experts to offer a month’s course in psychological counselling to students after which the products would go to the communities to educate the people on all aspects of the pandemic.
The school, working in collaboration with Life and Hope Foundation and the Kenyan Institute of Professional Counselling, has just graduated its first batch of students. It is expected to be upgraded to a tertiary educational institution to offer a two-year Higher National Diploma programme in psychological counselling.
Addressing the maiden graduation ceremony, Nene Sakite asked the graduands to live up to expectation.
He said although funds were required for the success of the programme, more depended on ideas, leadership and appropriate strategies for which he was prepared to offer.
According to Nene Sakite, after all the interventions, he realised that there had been a missing link, lack of attitudinal and behavioural change by the people, so he decided to set up the school to train psychological counsellors to address the situation.
He expressed the hope that such an initiative would produce more counsellors for the communities.
The Director for Policy, Research, Monitoring and Evaluation of the Ghana AIDS Commission, Dr Sylvia Anie-Akwetey, stressed the need for proper counselling of HIV/AID patients and commended Nene Sakite for his initiatives.
For his part, the Executive Director of the Kenya Institute of Professional Counselling, Mr Joseph Ndungu, who led the team of Kenyan experts to the school, asked chiefs in the area to play active roles in HIV/AIDS eradication programmes.
A graduand, Mr Benjamin Boanu, said he had learnt new methods of counselling, and gave the assurance that he would spread the HIV/AIDS prevention, management and care and support message in the communities.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
DON'T PLUNGE COUNTRY INTO TURMOIL ..Nana Hinaku urges political activists (Page 17)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Abiriw
THE Chief of Abiriw in the Akuapem North District of the Eastern Region, Nana Kwame Hinaku, has made a passionate appeal to activists of political parties not to do anything that would plunge the country into turmoil as they campaigned for this year’s elections.
This, he said, would ensure peaceful elections to sustain the country’s democracy and the accelerated growth of the economy.
Nana Hinaku made the appeal when he addressed a grand durbar of chiefs and people of Abiriw to mark their Eba (Ohum) Festival at Abiriw on Saturday, during which a new post office building was inaugurated.
The event, held on the theme “Culture, an effective Tool for Tourism Community Development”, was attended by a number of dignitaries such as a former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, Mr Dan Botwe; the Minister of Communications, Dr Aggrey Ntim; the Deputy Minister for Tourism and Diasporan Relations, Mr Kofi Osei Ameyaw; the Deputy Eastern Regional Minister and Mr Ofosu Asamoah; the MP for the area, Mr B. D. K. Adu
The Abiriwhene expressed appreciation to the government for providing a number of social amenities for the town and its surrounding villages and appealed for the rehabilitation of their streets and waterfall. He also asked the district assemblies to help develop tourist facilities in their respective areas.
He also praised the government for its educational initiatives such as the Capitation Grant and free meals at basic schools.
Mr Osei-Ameyaw, for his part, gave the assurance that the government would continue to promote tourism which would in turn make it possible to employ more people.
Dr Aggrey Ntim stated that the government was rehabilitating old post offices throughout the country and putting up new ones to improve communication in the country.
THE Chief of Abiriw in the Akuapem North District of the Eastern Region, Nana Kwame Hinaku, has made a passionate appeal to activists of political parties not to do anything that would plunge the country into turmoil as they campaigned for this year’s elections.
This, he said, would ensure peaceful elections to sustain the country’s democracy and the accelerated growth of the economy.
Nana Hinaku made the appeal when he addressed a grand durbar of chiefs and people of Abiriw to mark their Eba (Ohum) Festival at Abiriw on Saturday, during which a new post office building was inaugurated.
The event, held on the theme “Culture, an effective Tool for Tourism Community Development”, was attended by a number of dignitaries such as a former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, Mr Dan Botwe; the Minister of Communications, Dr Aggrey Ntim; the Deputy Minister for Tourism and Diasporan Relations, Mr Kofi Osei Ameyaw; the Deputy Eastern Regional Minister and Mr Ofosu Asamoah; the MP for the area, Mr B. D. K. Adu
The Abiriwhene expressed appreciation to the government for providing a number of social amenities for the town and its surrounding villages and appealed for the rehabilitation of their streets and waterfall. He also asked the district assemblies to help develop tourist facilities in their respective areas.
He also praised the government for its educational initiatives such as the Capitation Grant and free meals at basic schools.
Mr Osei-Ameyaw, for his part, gave the assurance that the government would continue to promote tourism which would in turn make it possible to employ more people.
Dr Aggrey Ntim stated that the government was rehabilitating old post offices throughout the country and putting up new ones to improve communication in the country.
Monday, January 21, 2008
AGYEPONG CALLS FOR MORE SUPPORT FOR APRM (Page 38)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Akropong-Akuapem
THE Chairman of the National Governing Council of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), Professor S.K. Agyepong, has called for support for the implementation of the APRM in the country.
This, he said, would bring development to the country and improve the lot of the people.
Prof. Agyepong made the call at the inauguration of a nine-member committee for the implementation of the APRM at Akropong-Akuapem at the weekend.
Present at the ceremony were all nine members of the Governing Council and a delegation from Benin led by Liassasie Serafin, who is in charge of that country’s APRM implementation, which was in the country to acquaint itself with Ghana’s implementation of the APRM.
He said since the government had decided to accede to the APRM, which, he noted, was to ensure good governance for the development of the country, such a bold and good initiative should be supported by all for its successful implementation.
“It is not only the government which should implement the APRM but the people as well, since they have to see to the implementation of democracy, business promotion, provision of social amenities and sharing of the national cake.
He said since the APRM initiative was to correct the imbalance of development between developed and developing countries, 27 African countries had so far embraced the concept, adding that Ghana’s high rate of development would be further accelerated with the concept to ensure that social amenities that made life worth living would be made available to the people.
Mr Serafin said the implementation of the APRM in Benin was on course and that the visit to Ghana would enable Benin to learn from Ghana’s experience, since Ghana was the first country in Africa to submit itself to the APRM.
THE Chairman of the National Governing Council of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), Professor S.K. Agyepong, has called for support for the implementation of the APRM in the country.
This, he said, would bring development to the country and improve the lot of the people.
Prof. Agyepong made the call at the inauguration of a nine-member committee for the implementation of the APRM at Akropong-Akuapem at the weekend.
Present at the ceremony were all nine members of the Governing Council and a delegation from Benin led by Liassasie Serafin, who is in charge of that country’s APRM implementation, which was in the country to acquaint itself with Ghana’s implementation of the APRM.
He said since the government had decided to accede to the APRM, which, he noted, was to ensure good governance for the development of the country, such a bold and good initiative should be supported by all for its successful implementation.
“It is not only the government which should implement the APRM but the people as well, since they have to see to the implementation of democracy, business promotion, provision of social amenities and sharing of the national cake.
He said since the APRM initiative was to correct the imbalance of development between developed and developing countries, 27 African countries had so far embraced the concept, adding that Ghana’s high rate of development would be further accelerated with the concept to ensure that social amenities that made life worth living would be made available to the people.
Mr Serafin said the implementation of the APRM in Benin was on course and that the visit to Ghana would enable Benin to learn from Ghana’s experience, since Ghana was the first country in Africa to submit itself to the APRM.
Friday, January 18, 2008
SPEAKER URGES GHANAIANS TO ENSURE PEACEFUL ELECTIONS (PAGE 15)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Koforidua
THE Speaker of Parliament, Mr Ebenezer Begyina Sekyi Hughes, has stated that since this year’s presidential and parliamentary elections will test Ghana’s democracy, it is the responsibility of the people to ensure that the event takes place peacefully.
This, he said, would preserve the peace the country had beenenjoying for a very long time.
The Speaker said this when he addressed participants of parliamentary outreach programme in Koforidua last Tuesday, , during which parliamentary processes were explained to the participants who in turn asked questions on a wide range of issues.
The gathering brought together a cross-section of the society from the region as well as such dignitaries as the Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin, the Second Deputy Speaker, Alhaji Malik Alhassan, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Affram Asiedu, some Members of Parliament from both sides of the political divide, as well as district chief executives from the region.
The Speaker said for over a decade that Ghanaians had embraced democracy, the country had struggled but had progressively held on to advance as evidenced in the peaceful and democratic manner of political transition in 2000 and the subsequent elections in 2004.
Mr Sakyi Hughes said although Ghanaians should be commended for the political maturity they had exhibited so far, they must not be complacent but should assist the institutional structures of the state to deliver during the polls.
“This year is an election year as it promises to test our steadfastness once more, and we all owe it a duty to stand for democracy, exercise our franchise and assist the structures of state to deliver.
“We are all one people with a common destiny, but probably differ in the mode that things should be done; Ghana is our nation and we must help to keep the peace for our generation and generations unborn,” Mr Sekyi Hughes stated
The Speaker, who explained the works of Parliament to the participants, said the august body had its own problems and said as a way of solving the problems and strengthening its institutional capacity to perform its functions, an enhanced strategic plan, which was developed had been implemented.
The Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin, explained that the traditional role of the opposition in Parliament was to serve as voice for the voiceless, an alternative to the ruling government, and lately a critical partner in nation building.
In performing such functions, he said, the opposition had the responsibility to be fair in criticising government policies.
Mr Bagbin said the opposition must also promote alternative policies that would advance progress in the country.
According to him, if Ghana’s democracy should be preserved as a viable mode of governance, the opposition must perform its role fearlessly and that could be done only if it was recognised, accorded rights and enabled to act responsibly.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Affram Asiedu, said the programme was a clear manifestation of government’s commitment to the policy of grass roots participation in decision making to enhance good governance.
THE Speaker of Parliament, Mr Ebenezer Begyina Sekyi Hughes, has stated that since this year’s presidential and parliamentary elections will test Ghana’s democracy, it is the responsibility of the people to ensure that the event takes place peacefully.
This, he said, would preserve the peace the country had beenenjoying for a very long time.
The Speaker said this when he addressed participants of parliamentary outreach programme in Koforidua last Tuesday, , during which parliamentary processes were explained to the participants who in turn asked questions on a wide range of issues.
The gathering brought together a cross-section of the society from the region as well as such dignitaries as the Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin, the Second Deputy Speaker, Alhaji Malik Alhassan, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Affram Asiedu, some Members of Parliament from both sides of the political divide, as well as district chief executives from the region.
The Speaker said for over a decade that Ghanaians had embraced democracy, the country had struggled but had progressively held on to advance as evidenced in the peaceful and democratic manner of political transition in 2000 and the subsequent elections in 2004.
Mr Sakyi Hughes said although Ghanaians should be commended for the political maturity they had exhibited so far, they must not be complacent but should assist the institutional structures of the state to deliver during the polls.
“This year is an election year as it promises to test our steadfastness once more, and we all owe it a duty to stand for democracy, exercise our franchise and assist the structures of state to deliver.
“We are all one people with a common destiny, but probably differ in the mode that things should be done; Ghana is our nation and we must help to keep the peace for our generation and generations unborn,” Mr Sekyi Hughes stated
The Speaker, who explained the works of Parliament to the participants, said the august body had its own problems and said as a way of solving the problems and strengthening its institutional capacity to perform its functions, an enhanced strategic plan, which was developed had been implemented.
The Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin, explained that the traditional role of the opposition in Parliament was to serve as voice for the voiceless, an alternative to the ruling government, and lately a critical partner in nation building.
In performing such functions, he said, the opposition had the responsibility to be fair in criticising government policies.
Mr Bagbin said the opposition must also promote alternative policies that would advance progress in the country.
According to him, if Ghana’s democracy should be preserved as a viable mode of governance, the opposition must perform its role fearlessly and that could be done only if it was recognised, accorded rights and enabled to act responsibly.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Affram Asiedu, said the programme was a clear manifestation of government’s commitment to the policy of grass roots participation in decision making to enhance good governance.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
YILO DISTRICT ASSEMBLY EXCEEDS TARGET (PAGE 15)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Somanya
THE Yilo District Assembly in the Eastern Region last year mobilised internally generated revenue totalling GH¢146,738.00.
The figure is in excess of seven per cent of GH¢136,520.50 targeted for the period.
The District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr Joseph Adu Tawiah, who announced this at the assembly’s meeting at Somanya, attributed such a remarkable achievement to stringent measures instituted, and commended the revenue collectors for a good work done.
He, however, said the figure, together with the GH¢951,563.73 which the assembly received as grants, made up of the District Assemblies Common Fund, HIPC, MPs Fund as well as wages and salaries which constituted 73 per cent of what was expected, was inadequate for the numerous projects and programmes being undertaken in the district.
He, therefore, indicated that the assembly would have to do more to increase its internally generated revenue base, and also secure additional funds from other development partners to supplement interventions from DANIDA, the European Union and the Community-Based Rural Development Project in executing such projects and programmes.
According to Mr Adu Tawiah, last year a number of projects were successfully carried out mostly in the villages and cottages, and mentioned some of them as boreholes drilled at Opersika, Aboa Osuboninya, Nsutapong Sokwenya, Nsutapong Klong, Nyuabeng Twepease while Wurampong Dornor, Sikabeng, Samlesi Aplesu, Brukum Salosi and Brukum Agavenya were also provided with hand-dug wells.
THE Yilo District Assembly in the Eastern Region last year mobilised internally generated revenue totalling GH¢146,738.00.
The figure is in excess of seven per cent of GH¢136,520.50 targeted for the period.
The District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr Joseph Adu Tawiah, who announced this at the assembly’s meeting at Somanya, attributed such a remarkable achievement to stringent measures instituted, and commended the revenue collectors for a good work done.
He, however, said the figure, together with the GH¢951,563.73 which the assembly received as grants, made up of the District Assemblies Common Fund, HIPC, MPs Fund as well as wages and salaries which constituted 73 per cent of what was expected, was inadequate for the numerous projects and programmes being undertaken in the district.
He, therefore, indicated that the assembly would have to do more to increase its internally generated revenue base, and also secure additional funds from other development partners to supplement interventions from DANIDA, the European Union and the Community-Based Rural Development Project in executing such projects and programmes.
According to Mr Adu Tawiah, last year a number of projects were successfully carried out mostly in the villages and cottages, and mentioned some of them as boreholes drilled at Opersika, Aboa Osuboninya, Nsutapong Sokwenya, Nsutapong Klong, Nyuabeng Twepease while Wurampong Dornor, Sikabeng, Samlesi Aplesu, Brukum Salosi and Brukum Agavenya were also provided with hand-dug wells.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
AKUFO-ADDO GRATEFUL TO ASPIRANTS (Page 15)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Kyebi
THE flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has expressed his appreciation to all the party's presidential aspirants who contested with him for their co-operation after his election to lead the party.
He said with such co-operation and support, the party would remain steadfast and strong to win this year's elections.
Nana Akufo-Addo who made these remarks at a thanksgiving service at the Presbyterian Church, Kyebi, his paternal home town on January 6 also addressed a durbar organised by Okyeman during which he thanked the people for their support and formally announced his election as the flag bearer of the NPP.
The NPP flag bearer who was accompanied by his wife, Rebecca, and seven of the party's unsuccessful presidential aspirants, namely, Messrs Alan Kyerematen, Yaw Osafo-Maafo, Felix Owusu- Agyepong, Hackman Owusu- Adjapong, Dr Addo Kufuor, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku and Professor Mike Oquaye said such co-operation had further strengthened the party to convincingly win this year's presidential and parliamentary elections.
He said since the NPP was fully entrenched in democracy, he was not surprised that those who contested with him for the ultimate but were not successful should throw their weight behind him, adding that it was such a spirit of togetherness that had for years held the party together, making it one of the well organised political organisations in Africa.
"The NPP is a democratic institution so I am not surprised that those who competed with me are co-operating with me and giving me all the support and encouragement to win the presidency and the elections in general", he said.
Nana Akufo-Addo who expressed his deepest appreciation to the party's presidential aspirants for their co-operation and support also asked the rank and file of the party to unite to enable the NPP to emerge victorious at the forthcoming general elections.
He thanked the congregation for the spiritual support accorded him and asked for God's guidance and blessing to enable him to execute the tasks ahead of him.
In a sermon, the Principal of the College of Education, Kyebi, Rev E.Y. Omenako, asked for God's intervention for a peaceful election that will ensure that both the victor and the losers would accept the results.
This, he said would ensure peace and sustain the country's fledgling democracy.
Basing his sermon on Matthew Chapter 2 verses 1-12, and on the theme "Be a Wise Person", he said as the country was preparing for the elections it was necessary for all to be wise and eschew negative tendencies that would bring hatred.
Later at the durbar, Nana Akufo-Addo told the gathering that he was not for any specific tribe but Ghana, adding that Ghanaians were one people fighting for the common good.
Welcoming Nana Akufo-Addo to the durbar, the Denkumhene of Akyem Abuakwa who is also the Begorohene, Osabarima Awua Kotoko, advised Nana Akufo-Addo to fight for all Ghanaians but not for a specific tribe.
The Okyenhene Osagyehene Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin traced the lineage of Nana Akufo-Addo which, according to him, had royal blood and leadership skills and expressed the hope that he would be able to properly administer the country to create a society that would see to the need of all irrespective of class, religion or tribe.
He advised Nana Akufo-Addo that since politics was a game of numbers, he should try his best to unite the party and the nation, adding that it was the only way he would be successful.
The Okyenhene who described Kyebi as the "Mecca of Ghana's ... founders of that tradition, especially the late Dr J.B. Danquah and William Ofori Attah, popularly known as Paa Willie, both of whom had been buried at Kyebi and Paa Grant” for the part they played in preserving democracy in the country.
THE flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has expressed his appreciation to all the party's presidential aspirants who contested with him for their co-operation after his election to lead the party.
He said with such co-operation and support, the party would remain steadfast and strong to win this year's elections.
Nana Akufo-Addo who made these remarks at a thanksgiving service at the Presbyterian Church, Kyebi, his paternal home town on January 6 also addressed a durbar organised by Okyeman during which he thanked the people for their support and formally announced his election as the flag bearer of the NPP.
The NPP flag bearer who was accompanied by his wife, Rebecca, and seven of the party's unsuccessful presidential aspirants, namely, Messrs Alan Kyerematen, Yaw Osafo-Maafo, Felix Owusu- Agyepong, Hackman Owusu- Adjapong, Dr Addo Kufuor, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku and Professor Mike Oquaye said such co-operation had further strengthened the party to convincingly win this year's presidential and parliamentary elections.
He said since the NPP was fully entrenched in democracy, he was not surprised that those who contested with him for the ultimate but were not successful should throw their weight behind him, adding that it was such a spirit of togetherness that had for years held the party together, making it one of the well organised political organisations in Africa.
"The NPP is a democratic institution so I am not surprised that those who competed with me are co-operating with me and giving me all the support and encouragement to win the presidency and the elections in general", he said.
Nana Akufo-Addo who expressed his deepest appreciation to the party's presidential aspirants for their co-operation and support also asked the rank and file of the party to unite to enable the NPP to emerge victorious at the forthcoming general elections.
He thanked the congregation for the spiritual support accorded him and asked for God's guidance and blessing to enable him to execute the tasks ahead of him.
In a sermon, the Principal of the College of Education, Kyebi, Rev E.Y. Omenako, asked for God's intervention for a peaceful election that will ensure that both the victor and the losers would accept the results.
This, he said would ensure peace and sustain the country's fledgling democracy.
Basing his sermon on Matthew Chapter 2 verses 1-12, and on the theme "Be a Wise Person", he said as the country was preparing for the elections it was necessary for all to be wise and eschew negative tendencies that would bring hatred.
Later at the durbar, Nana Akufo-Addo told the gathering that he was not for any specific tribe but Ghana, adding that Ghanaians were one people fighting for the common good.
Welcoming Nana Akufo-Addo to the durbar, the Denkumhene of Akyem Abuakwa who is also the Begorohene, Osabarima Awua Kotoko, advised Nana Akufo-Addo to fight for all Ghanaians but not for a specific tribe.
The Okyenhene Osagyehene Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin traced the lineage of Nana Akufo-Addo which, according to him, had royal blood and leadership skills and expressed the hope that he would be able to properly administer the country to create a society that would see to the need of all irrespective of class, religion or tribe.
He advised Nana Akufo-Addo that since politics was a game of numbers, he should try his best to unite the party and the nation, adding that it was the only way he would be successful.
The Okyenhene who described Kyebi as the "Mecca of Ghana's ... founders of that tradition, especially the late Dr J.B. Danquah and William Ofori Attah, popularly known as Paa Willie, both of whom had been buried at Kyebi and Paa Grant” for the part they played in preserving democracy in the country.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
UNITE TO ACHIEVE GOAL — AKUFO-ADDO (Page 17)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Akropong-Akuapem
THE flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, has stated that although the party will definitely win this year's elections because of the able manner it has administered the country, there is the need for the party to unite to achieve that goal.
He said the Kufuor administration had done marvellously well and now that he had been elected to lead the party to the elections, he would do his best to unite the rank and file of the party for a convincing victory at the polls.
He therefore stressed the need for Ghanaians to see each other as one people so that they would not do anything that would impact negatively on the polls.
Nana Akufo-Addo made the remarks when he paid a courtesy call on the Okuapehene, Oseadeoyo Addo Dankwa III, at his palace at Akropong-Akuapem on Saturday.
The NPP flag bearer who was at Akropong, his father's hometown, to thank the Okuapehene and Okuapeman for the support accorded him prior to the December 22 NPP congress also attended a church service at the local Christ Presbyterian Church to thank God for his guidance and spiritual support, where he was presented with a Holy Bible to guide him in his deliberations. He was made an honorary member of the church.
He also visited his ancestral home and laid a wreath at the tomb of his father, the late Edward Akufo-Addo, and his mother, Adeline Akufo-Addo.
Nana Akufo-Addo was accompanied to the town by his wife, Rebecca, Mr Yaw Osafo-Maafo, Professor Mike Oquaye and Mr Dan Botwe, all NPP Presidential aspirants who lost to Nana Akufo-Addo,as well as Nana Ohene Ntow, General Secretary of the NPP, Mr Yaw Gyekye Amoabeng, Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP, some deputy ministers and MPs and some district chief executives from the Eastern Region.
According to Nana Akufo-Addo, Ghana had now become Africa's beacon for democracy and good governance, and that Ghanaians should see themselves as one people so that they would not do anything that would impact negatively on the December general elections.
"Ghana has become the beacon of democracy and good governance and we should see ourselves as one people as we go to the polls in December so that we do not do anything that would make us enemies", Nana Akufo-Addo stated, to an applause.
The NPP Presidential hopeful, who asked for God's guidance, steadfastness and the spirit of tolerance to be able to administer the country when elected President, thanked the Okuapehene for his guidance and support.
He also appealed to Oseadeoyo Addo Dankwa and all traditional rulers to continue with their efforts in maintaining peace in the country.
The Okuapehene traced the ancestry of Nana Akufo-Addo and said he was born a statesman since his great-great grandfather, the late Nana Addo Dankwa was Okuapehene and his father, the late Edward Akufo-Addo, was a president.
THE flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, has stated that although the party will definitely win this year's elections because of the able manner it has administered the country, there is the need for the party to unite to achieve that goal.
He said the Kufuor administration had done marvellously well and now that he had been elected to lead the party to the elections, he would do his best to unite the rank and file of the party for a convincing victory at the polls.
He therefore stressed the need for Ghanaians to see each other as one people so that they would not do anything that would impact negatively on the polls.
Nana Akufo-Addo made the remarks when he paid a courtesy call on the Okuapehene, Oseadeoyo Addo Dankwa III, at his palace at Akropong-Akuapem on Saturday.
The NPP flag bearer who was at Akropong, his father's hometown, to thank the Okuapehene and Okuapeman for the support accorded him prior to the December 22 NPP congress also attended a church service at the local Christ Presbyterian Church to thank God for his guidance and spiritual support, where he was presented with a Holy Bible to guide him in his deliberations. He was made an honorary member of the church.
He also visited his ancestral home and laid a wreath at the tomb of his father, the late Edward Akufo-Addo, and his mother, Adeline Akufo-Addo.
Nana Akufo-Addo was accompanied to the town by his wife, Rebecca, Mr Yaw Osafo-Maafo, Professor Mike Oquaye and Mr Dan Botwe, all NPP Presidential aspirants who lost to Nana Akufo-Addo,as well as Nana Ohene Ntow, General Secretary of the NPP, Mr Yaw Gyekye Amoabeng, Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP, some deputy ministers and MPs and some district chief executives from the Eastern Region.
According to Nana Akufo-Addo, Ghana had now become Africa's beacon for democracy and good governance, and that Ghanaians should see themselves as one people so that they would not do anything that would impact negatively on the December general elections.
"Ghana has become the beacon of democracy and good governance and we should see ourselves as one people as we go to the polls in December so that we do not do anything that would make us enemies", Nana Akufo-Addo stated, to an applause.
The NPP Presidential hopeful, who asked for God's guidance, steadfastness and the spirit of tolerance to be able to administer the country when elected President, thanked the Okuapehene for his guidance and support.
He also appealed to Oseadeoyo Addo Dankwa and all traditional rulers to continue with their efforts in maintaining peace in the country.
The Okuapehene traced the ancestry of Nana Akufo-Addo and said he was born a statesman since his great-great grandfather, the late Nana Addo Dankwa was Okuapehene and his father, the late Edward Akufo-Addo, was a president.
Friday, January 4, 2008
PRESBY UNIVERSITY ADMITS 68 (Page 17)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Akropong-Akuapem
THE Akuapem campus of the Presbyterian University College (PUC) has held its first matriculation to admit 68 students.
The students, made up of 43 males and 25 females, would be pursuing programmes in Rural and Community Development, Environmental and Natural Resources Management and Business Economics.
The ceremony was attended by a number of dignitaries, including Osahene Ofei Kwasi Agyeman, Krontihene of Akuapem, the District Chief Executive for Akuapem North, Mr Adu Aboagye and top clergymen of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG).
Addressing the gathering, the Principal, Professor Kofi Sraku-Lartey, said the PUC, which was established in 2004 with campuses at Kwahu and Asante Akyem, had planned to set up a department of languages at the Akuapem campus to admit students for French, English and Akan programmes.
He said the aim of the university was to produce leaders with creative and innovative skills to meet the challenges of the country.
He expressed the PUC’s gratitude to the PCG, other organisations and individuals for their support to the university.
Osahene Offei Agyeman told the students that since tertiary education was gradually becoming the basic requirement in Ghana, they should take their studies seriously to come out successfully.
He appealed to traditional rulers and civil society to support the university, since it would bring a lot of benefits to the area.
The Chairman of the Akuapem Presbytery, Rt Rev J.O.Y. Mantey, said the Akuapem campus would not only produce professionals imbued with Christian principles but would also transform Akuapem to be “Ghana’s Oxford”.
He gave the assurance that the PCG would continue to support the university.
In a speech read on his behalf, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Afram Asiedu, said the Kufuor Administration, since taking office about seven years ago, had allocated huge sums of money to the educational sector, which has been reformed through a number of interventions such as the Capitation Grant and free meals at the basic level.
He said since the government alone could not meet the educational requirements of the country, it had empowered the private sector to be actively involved in that respect and praised the PCG for building a number of schools in the country.
THE Akuapem campus of the Presbyterian University College (PUC) has held its first matriculation to admit 68 students.
The students, made up of 43 males and 25 females, would be pursuing programmes in Rural and Community Development, Environmental and Natural Resources Management and Business Economics.
The ceremony was attended by a number of dignitaries, including Osahene Ofei Kwasi Agyeman, Krontihene of Akuapem, the District Chief Executive for Akuapem North, Mr Adu Aboagye and top clergymen of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG).
Addressing the gathering, the Principal, Professor Kofi Sraku-Lartey, said the PUC, which was established in 2004 with campuses at Kwahu and Asante Akyem, had planned to set up a department of languages at the Akuapem campus to admit students for French, English and Akan programmes.
He said the aim of the university was to produce leaders with creative and innovative skills to meet the challenges of the country.
He expressed the PUC’s gratitude to the PCG, other organisations and individuals for their support to the university.
Osahene Offei Agyeman told the students that since tertiary education was gradually becoming the basic requirement in Ghana, they should take their studies seriously to come out successfully.
He appealed to traditional rulers and civil society to support the university, since it would bring a lot of benefits to the area.
The Chairman of the Akuapem Presbytery, Rt Rev J.O.Y. Mantey, said the Akuapem campus would not only produce professionals imbued with Christian principles but would also transform Akuapem to be “Ghana’s Oxford”.
He gave the assurance that the PCG would continue to support the university.
In a speech read on his behalf, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Afram Asiedu, said the Kufuor Administration, since taking office about seven years ago, had allocated huge sums of money to the educational sector, which has been reformed through a number of interventions such as the Capitation Grant and free meals at the basic level.
He said since the government alone could not meet the educational requirements of the country, it had empowered the private sector to be actively involved in that respect and praised the PCG for building a number of schools in the country.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
RALLY BEHIND AKUFO-ADDO ...Says Asamoah (Page 17)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Kade
THE New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Kade in the Eastern Region, Mr Ofosu Asamoah, has asked the rank and file of the party to solidly rally behind Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, the party’s flag bearer, to enable the party to win this year’s presidential and parliamentary elections.
He said although Nana Akufo-Addo had all the qualities of a leader to be elected as president of Ghana, that would only be possible if he was accorded the necessary support.
Mr Ofosu Asamoah, who is also the Deputy Eastern Regional Minister, made the call at an end-of-year get-together he organised for the rank and file of the NPP in the Kade Constituency at Kade on New Year’s eve.
He said the NPP had made significant gains in all sectors of the economy and needed a leader such as Nana Akufo-Addo to lead it to victory to enable an NPP Presidential candidate to take over from an NPP sitting President, adding that with Nana Akufo-Addo, the NPP would emerge victorious to take over from President J.A. Kufuor.
He, therefore, asked the rank and file to unite and strategise for a resounding victory at the December polls.
“The NPP has made a significant breakthrough in all sectors; a drastic fall in the inflation making the cedi to be at par with the dollar, health insurance which is making it possible for the poor to access quality health care, Capitation Grant and School Feeding Programme that have increased enrolment at the basic level and numerous government initiatives which are improving the standard of living of the people,” Mr Ofosu Asamoah stated.
“The people have seen these initiatives and programmes and will definitely support the NPP and Nana Akufo-Addo but there is the need for the rank and file of the party to put aside all their differences and strategise for a resounding victory in December,” Mr Ofosu Asamoah stated.
The Chief of Asuom, Nana Ofosuhene Appenteng also called for support for Nana Akufo-Addo and the party to win the December elections.
THE New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Kade in the Eastern Region, Mr Ofosu Asamoah, has asked the rank and file of the party to solidly rally behind Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, the party’s flag bearer, to enable the party to win this year’s presidential and parliamentary elections.
He said although Nana Akufo-Addo had all the qualities of a leader to be elected as president of Ghana, that would only be possible if he was accorded the necessary support.
Mr Ofosu Asamoah, who is also the Deputy Eastern Regional Minister, made the call at an end-of-year get-together he organised for the rank and file of the NPP in the Kade Constituency at Kade on New Year’s eve.
He said the NPP had made significant gains in all sectors of the economy and needed a leader such as Nana Akufo-Addo to lead it to victory to enable an NPP Presidential candidate to take over from an NPP sitting President, adding that with Nana Akufo-Addo, the NPP would emerge victorious to take over from President J.A. Kufuor.
He, therefore, asked the rank and file to unite and strategise for a resounding victory at the December polls.
“The NPP has made a significant breakthrough in all sectors; a drastic fall in the inflation making the cedi to be at par with the dollar, health insurance which is making it possible for the poor to access quality health care, Capitation Grant and School Feeding Programme that have increased enrolment at the basic level and numerous government initiatives which are improving the standard of living of the people,” Mr Ofosu Asamoah stated.
“The people have seen these initiatives and programmes and will definitely support the NPP and Nana Akufo-Addo but there is the need for the rank and file of the party to put aside all their differences and strategise for a resounding victory in December,” Mr Ofosu Asamoah stated.
The Chief of Asuom, Nana Ofosuhene Appenteng also called for support for Nana Akufo-Addo and the party to win the December elections.
ATIWA DISTRICT ADJUDGED THE BEST (Page 38)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Kwabeng
THE Atiwa District of the Eastern Region has been adjudged the best in the implementation and execution of European Union (EU) funded projects in the region.
The District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr Kwasi Osei Agyepong, made this known at the assembly’s meeting at Kwabeng at the weekend
He said the judicious manner in which GH¢74,556.58 given out by the EU for the construction of a number of social amenities was utilised had won the confidence of the donors and expressed the hope that the EU would provide additional funding for other social amenities in the area.
That, he said, would further improve the living standards of the people in the area.
“We received GH¢74,556.58 from the EU to construct schools, a warehouse and modern places of convenience at Akropong, Adasawase, Mampong, Kwabeng, Enyiresi and Kadewase and I am happy to inform you that the judicious manner in which the fund is being used for the implementation of the projects has placed the district first among the 17 districts in that respect in this year’s assessment,” he said.
He, therefore, called for support from the assembly members for the speedy execution of projects in their electoral areas to justify funding for more projects.
With regard to the district’s health insurance scheme, he stated that so far 44,575 people, constituting 46 per cent of the district’s population, had registered, out of which 98 per cent were accessing health care.
The DCE, who also stated that the Ghana AIDS Commission had released GH¢8,000 to the assembly to help curb the spread of HIV/AIDS, indicated that centres for voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) had been set up at Kwabeng, the district capital, and four other towns in the area and appealed to the people to go for testing to know their health status.
On revenue generation, Mr Agyepong stated that the assembly collected GH¢967,994.22 in 2007, as against a projected figure of GH¢972,541.17, while GH¢468,934.00 was received as its share of the District Assemblies Common Fund.
On education, he said with the introduction of the Capitation Grant, enrolment in basic schools had soared but the performance of pupils in the BECE had been poor. He attributed the poor performance to a number of factors, including the inability of parents to control their children, most of whom attended video shows and other social activities in the night, at the expense of their studies.
In view of that, Mr Agyepong said the assembly had passed a bye-law banning children from video centres and other social gatherings in the night.
On agriculture, he said the government, through the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, had assisted 125 farmers in the area, while tree and oil palm nurseries had been established at Bomaa to manage degraded lands in the Atiwa Forest Range.
The assembly, he said, was also taking steps to develop the area’s tourism potential.
Earlier, the Presiding Member, Mr Akwasi Amoako Attah, had expressed his displeasure at the payment of mobilisation funds to contractors, which exceeded the stipulated 15 per cent of the contract sum, and the lackadaisical attitude of staff of the assembly, warning them that anybody who would not perform to expectation would be severely dealt with.
THE Atiwa District of the Eastern Region has been adjudged the best in the implementation and execution of European Union (EU) funded projects in the region.
The District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr Kwasi Osei Agyepong, made this known at the assembly’s meeting at Kwabeng at the weekend
He said the judicious manner in which GH¢74,556.58 given out by the EU for the construction of a number of social amenities was utilised had won the confidence of the donors and expressed the hope that the EU would provide additional funding for other social amenities in the area.
That, he said, would further improve the living standards of the people in the area.
“We received GH¢74,556.58 from the EU to construct schools, a warehouse and modern places of convenience at Akropong, Adasawase, Mampong, Kwabeng, Enyiresi and Kadewase and I am happy to inform you that the judicious manner in which the fund is being used for the implementation of the projects has placed the district first among the 17 districts in that respect in this year’s assessment,” he said.
He, therefore, called for support from the assembly members for the speedy execution of projects in their electoral areas to justify funding for more projects.
With regard to the district’s health insurance scheme, he stated that so far 44,575 people, constituting 46 per cent of the district’s population, had registered, out of which 98 per cent were accessing health care.
The DCE, who also stated that the Ghana AIDS Commission had released GH¢8,000 to the assembly to help curb the spread of HIV/AIDS, indicated that centres for voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) had been set up at Kwabeng, the district capital, and four other towns in the area and appealed to the people to go for testing to know their health status.
On revenue generation, Mr Agyepong stated that the assembly collected GH¢967,994.22 in 2007, as against a projected figure of GH¢972,541.17, while GH¢468,934.00 was received as its share of the District Assemblies Common Fund.
On education, he said with the introduction of the Capitation Grant, enrolment in basic schools had soared but the performance of pupils in the BECE had been poor. He attributed the poor performance to a number of factors, including the inability of parents to control their children, most of whom attended video shows and other social activities in the night, at the expense of their studies.
In view of that, Mr Agyepong said the assembly had passed a bye-law banning children from video centres and other social gatherings in the night.
On agriculture, he said the government, through the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, had assisted 125 farmers in the area, while tree and oil palm nurseries had been established at Bomaa to manage degraded lands in the Atiwa Forest Range.
The assembly, he said, was also taking steps to develop the area’s tourism potential.
Earlier, the Presiding Member, Mr Akwasi Amoako Attah, had expressed his displeasure at the payment of mobilisation funds to contractors, which exceeded the stipulated 15 per cent of the contract sum, and the lackadaisical attitude of staff of the assembly, warning them that anybody who would not perform to expectation would be severely dealt with.
KWABENG COURT TO START SITTING (Page 44)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Kwabeng
THE Kwabeng Magistrate Court in the Atiwa District in the Eastern Region which ceased functioning about 30 years ago will start sitting from this month.
Also, a new building will be constructed at nearby Anyinam to replace the old and dilapidated court building there.
The Chief Justice, Mrs Justice Theodora Georgina Wood, made these known when she visited the area yesterday.
The Chief Justice, who was accompanied by Mr Justice Stephen Allan Brobbey, a Supreme Court judge, was in the area for first-hand information on the dilapidated court building and to see how best to address the infrastructural problems of the judiciary in the area.
She said the decision to resume court sittings at Kwabeng and put up a new court building at Anyinam was to bring justice to the doorstep of the people and also help speed up the adjudication of cases in the area.
The Chief Justice stated that steps were being taken for people in every part of the country to have access to justice, adding that a number of judges and magistrates would soon be posted to courts which were without substantive judges.
She urged the people to use the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) process to deal with minor cases to allow the courts to deal with the more serious ones.
She called on the staff of the Judicial Service to be diligent, punctual and eschew negative tendencies that would bring the service into disrepute.
She also appealed to parents to send their children, especially girls, to school so that they could grow up as responsible citizens.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atiwa, Mr Kwasi Osei Agyepong, gave the assurance that the assembly would collaborate with the Judicial Service to put up structures that would facilitate the work of the judiciary in the area.
He commended the Chief Justice for achieving such an enviable position by dint of hard work, selflessness and commitment.
The Chief of Abekoase, Barima Akroma Acheampong, who chaired the meeting, expressed the people’s gratitude to the Chief Justice for personally going to the area to help address the problems facing the delivery of justice there.
THE Kwabeng Magistrate Court in the Atiwa District in the Eastern Region which ceased functioning about 30 years ago will start sitting from this month.
Also, a new building will be constructed at nearby Anyinam to replace the old and dilapidated court building there.
The Chief Justice, Mrs Justice Theodora Georgina Wood, made these known when she visited the area yesterday.
The Chief Justice, who was accompanied by Mr Justice Stephen Allan Brobbey, a Supreme Court judge, was in the area for first-hand information on the dilapidated court building and to see how best to address the infrastructural problems of the judiciary in the area.
She said the decision to resume court sittings at Kwabeng and put up a new court building at Anyinam was to bring justice to the doorstep of the people and also help speed up the adjudication of cases in the area.
The Chief Justice stated that steps were being taken for people in every part of the country to have access to justice, adding that a number of judges and magistrates would soon be posted to courts which were without substantive judges.
She urged the people to use the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) process to deal with minor cases to allow the courts to deal with the more serious ones.
She called on the staff of the Judicial Service to be diligent, punctual and eschew negative tendencies that would bring the service into disrepute.
She also appealed to parents to send their children, especially girls, to school so that they could grow up as responsible citizens.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atiwa, Mr Kwasi Osei Agyepong, gave the assurance that the assembly would collaborate with the Judicial Service to put up structures that would facilitate the work of the judiciary in the area.
He commended the Chief Justice for achieving such an enviable position by dint of hard work, selflessness and commitment.
The Chief of Abekoase, Barima Akroma Acheampong, who chaired the meeting, expressed the people’s gratitude to the Chief Justice for personally going to the area to help address the problems facing the delivery of justice there.
YEBOAH WINS TAFO OPE N GOLF (Page 47)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Tafo
A 22-YEAR-OLD man, Kofi Yeboah from the Tafo Golf Club, last Saturday put up a spectacular performance to win the 2007 Unique Trust Financial Services-sponsored Tafo Open championship when he beat 62 golfers drawn from various golf clubs in the country.
The triumphant Yeboah initially tied with Osei Kobina from the Royal Gulf Club, Kumasi, who came second. They both had 140 points apiece but Yeboah carried the day after the sudden death rule was applied.
Sai Godwin from the Achimota Golf Club came third with 141 points on count back while Amalie Ernest of the Tafo Golf Club took the fourth position with 141 points.
In the handicap division, Samuel Franklin Essuman from Takoradi scored 139 net on countback to take the trophy, while Felix Quarshie from Tafo had 139 net for the second position, leaving E.T. Mensah from Tema who had a net of 140 to take the third position.
The ladies scratch division registered an upset when little known Mishida Mensah from the Royal Golf Club, Kumasi, scored 170 to take the ultimate prize.
She beat Grace Afriyie of Tema who had 178 gross, countback, to take the second position, and veteran and reigning champion, Mona Captan of Achimota, who scored 178 gross on countback to take the third place.
In the ladies handicap division, Felicity Gyeabour from the Royal Golf Club came first with 153 net, followed by Florence Etwi-Barimah from Tema who scored 156 to take the second position, while Betty Richard of Royal Golf Club registered 161 net for the third position.
The Chief Executive Officer of Unique Trust Financial Services, Prince Kofi Amoabeng, donated GH¢ 5,000 (¢50 million) for the promotion of golf and urged people to take interest in it.
He congratulated all those who took part in the competition.
A 22-YEAR-OLD man, Kofi Yeboah from the Tafo Golf Club, last Saturday put up a spectacular performance to win the 2007 Unique Trust Financial Services-sponsored Tafo Open championship when he beat 62 golfers drawn from various golf clubs in the country.
The triumphant Yeboah initially tied with Osei Kobina from the Royal Gulf Club, Kumasi, who came second. They both had 140 points apiece but Yeboah carried the day after the sudden death rule was applied.
Sai Godwin from the Achimota Golf Club came third with 141 points on count back while Amalie Ernest of the Tafo Golf Club took the fourth position with 141 points.
In the handicap division, Samuel Franklin Essuman from Takoradi scored 139 net on countback to take the trophy, while Felix Quarshie from Tafo had 139 net for the second position, leaving E.T. Mensah from Tema who had a net of 140 to take the third position.
The ladies scratch division registered an upset when little known Mishida Mensah from the Royal Golf Club, Kumasi, scored 170 to take the ultimate prize.
She beat Grace Afriyie of Tema who had 178 gross, countback, to take the second position, and veteran and reigning champion, Mona Captan of Achimota, who scored 178 gross on countback to take the third place.
In the ladies handicap division, Felicity Gyeabour from the Royal Golf Club came first with 153 net, followed by Florence Etwi-Barimah from Tema who scored 156 to take the second position, while Betty Richard of Royal Golf Club registered 161 net for the third position.
The Chief Executive Officer of Unique Trust Financial Services, Prince Kofi Amoabeng, donated GH¢ 5,000 (¢50 million) for the promotion of golf and urged people to take interest in it.
He congratulated all those who took part in the competition.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
'LEADERS OF POLITICAL PARTIES MUST BE CIRCUMSPECT' (Page 13)
From A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Adukrom
THE Okeremanhene, Osudumgya Otutu Kono II, has made a passionate appeal to leaders of political parties to be circumspect in their electioneering campaign in order to sustain the prevailing peace in the country.
This, he said, would help remove all doubts about whichever party wins next year’s general election to make the results acceptable by all.
Nana Otutu Kono, who is also the chief of Adukrom, made the appeal when he addressed a colourful durbar at Adukrom on Saturday to celebrate the Odwira Festival of the chiefs and people of Okere.
The event, with the theme “Ghana @ 50: Ensuring Quality Education and Development in Adukrom, was attended by all the chiefs of Okere and dignitaries including the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr Joe Ghartey, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr Freddie Blay, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Asiedu Afram, the MP for Okere, Mr B.D.K. Adu, and the District Chief Executive for Akuapem North, Mr Edward Adu Aboagye.
According to the Okeremanhene, now that some of the political parties had elected their flag bearers, it was the responsibility of the flag bearers to be circumspect in their electioneering campaigns and deliberations in order not to offend others so that the country would continue to enjoy the prevailing peace.
“Most of the political parties have elected their flagbearers and the electioneering campaign will soon start so it will be in the interest of the country for the political leaders to go about their electioneering campaigns in a civilised manner to make the results of the elections acceptable by all.”
Osumdugya Otutu Kono, who praised the government for providing a number of infrastructural amenities in the area such as schools, however called for more of such facilities such as street lights for Adukrom, boreholes for the villages, setting up of a court and the upgrading of the Nifa Senior High School to a model school.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Afram Asiedu, said the government was committed to human resource development of the the country and that was why it had focused on quality education with the provision of infrastructure, furniture and books and the introduction of special initiatives such as the Capitation Grant and the School Feeding Programme and asked parents to take advantage of such initiatives to enrol their children in school.
He also said the government was promoting private sector development to accelerate socio-economic development and called on community leaders and the district assembly to mobilise resources to develop the Aasenema Waterfall and other tourist attractions in the area to attract tourists.
The Regional Minister, who told the gathering that his outfit would see how best to address the problems in the area, also gave the assurance that steps were being taken to resolve the boundary dispute between Okereman and Yilo Krobo.
Mr Joe Ghartey, who was the guest speaker, gave detailed account of the successes so far chalked up by the government, which, according to him, included drastic fall in inflation which had given value to the cedi, and deepened democracy that had raised the image of the country on the international scene and called for support for the government to enable it to continue with its good works.
Earlier, Mr B.D.K. Adu had helped provide a number of social amenities in the area and paid the health insurance premium for 1,500 old people in the area said he had set up an education fund with seed money of GH¢3,000 to cater for the educational needs of students of poor parentage.
THE Okeremanhene, Osudumgya Otutu Kono II, has made a passionate appeal to leaders of political parties to be circumspect in their electioneering campaign in order to sustain the prevailing peace in the country.
This, he said, would help remove all doubts about whichever party wins next year’s general election to make the results acceptable by all.
Nana Otutu Kono, who is also the chief of Adukrom, made the appeal when he addressed a colourful durbar at Adukrom on Saturday to celebrate the Odwira Festival of the chiefs and people of Okere.
The event, with the theme “Ghana @ 50: Ensuring Quality Education and Development in Adukrom, was attended by all the chiefs of Okere and dignitaries including the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr Joe Ghartey, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr Freddie Blay, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Asiedu Afram, the MP for Okere, Mr B.D.K. Adu, and the District Chief Executive for Akuapem North, Mr Edward Adu Aboagye.
According to the Okeremanhene, now that some of the political parties had elected their flag bearers, it was the responsibility of the flag bearers to be circumspect in their electioneering campaigns and deliberations in order not to offend others so that the country would continue to enjoy the prevailing peace.
“Most of the political parties have elected their flagbearers and the electioneering campaign will soon start so it will be in the interest of the country for the political leaders to go about their electioneering campaigns in a civilised manner to make the results of the elections acceptable by all.”
Osumdugya Otutu Kono, who praised the government for providing a number of infrastructural amenities in the area such as schools, however called for more of such facilities such as street lights for Adukrom, boreholes for the villages, setting up of a court and the upgrading of the Nifa Senior High School to a model school.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Kwadwo Afram Asiedu, said the government was committed to human resource development of the the country and that was why it had focused on quality education with the provision of infrastructure, furniture and books and the introduction of special initiatives such as the Capitation Grant and the School Feeding Programme and asked parents to take advantage of such initiatives to enrol their children in school.
He also said the government was promoting private sector development to accelerate socio-economic development and called on community leaders and the district assembly to mobilise resources to develop the Aasenema Waterfall and other tourist attractions in the area to attract tourists.
The Regional Minister, who told the gathering that his outfit would see how best to address the problems in the area, also gave the assurance that steps were being taken to resolve the boundary dispute between Okereman and Yilo Krobo.
Mr Joe Ghartey, who was the guest speaker, gave detailed account of the successes so far chalked up by the government, which, according to him, included drastic fall in inflation which had given value to the cedi, and deepened democracy that had raised the image of the country on the international scene and called for support for the government to enable it to continue with its good works.
Earlier, Mr B.D.K. Adu had helped provide a number of social amenities in the area and paid the health insurance premium for 1,500 old people in the area said he had set up an education fund with seed money of GH¢3,000 to cater for the educational needs of students of poor parentage.
GOVT 'LL DEVELOP KWAHU NORTH ROADS (Back Page)
Story: A. Kofoya-Tetteh, Donkorkrom
THE Minister of State in charge of Transportation, Mr Godfrey Bayon, has assured people in the Kwahu North District (formerly Afram Plains) that the government would not relent in the district’s road rehabilitation programme to improve transportation in the area.
This, he said, would not only make it possible for farmers in the area to market their produce but would open up the place for both local and foreign investors.
Mr Bayon gave the assurance when he inspected work on a number of roads being rehabilitated or constructed in the district.
Some of the roads were the ¢7.7 billion Ekye Amanfrom-Amankwakrom Road being funded by the Road Fund, the ¢3.5 billion Tease-Anlo Faase Adrom road, the ¢2.7 billion Abotanso-Kofiyina-Apesika road and the Kwamepong Nkwanta-Mamekrobo road, all being funded by the European Union through the Government of Ghana initiative.
“We cannot sit down while roads in such an important agricultural area deteriorate and the people suffer and this is why we are rehabilitating them to improve their living standards,” Mr Bayon stated.
At Donkorkrom, the district capital, the minister was happy about the work on the streets, which were being tarred for the first time, and expressed the hope that completion of work would uplift the image of the town.
Mr Bayon expressed the government’s gratitude to the European Union for its assistance for the projects.
The Eastern Regional Engineer of the Ghana Highway Authority, Mr Bernard Badu, who conducted the minister round the various projects, said the district had 588 kilometres of roads out of which 57.7 kilometres, constituting 10 per cent had been tarred, adding that those not tarred were periodically rehabilitated at least twice a year to make them motorable at all times.
The District Chief Executive for the area, Mr Solomon Fordjour, said considering the rate at which construction works were going on, the district would soon have most of its roads in good shape.
THE Minister of State in charge of Transportation, Mr Godfrey Bayon, has assured people in the Kwahu North District (formerly Afram Plains) that the government would not relent in the district’s road rehabilitation programme to improve transportation in the area.
This, he said, would not only make it possible for farmers in the area to market their produce but would open up the place for both local and foreign investors.
Mr Bayon gave the assurance when he inspected work on a number of roads being rehabilitated or constructed in the district.
Some of the roads were the ¢7.7 billion Ekye Amanfrom-Amankwakrom Road being funded by the Road Fund, the ¢3.5 billion Tease-Anlo Faase Adrom road, the ¢2.7 billion Abotanso-Kofiyina-Apesika road and the Kwamepong Nkwanta-Mamekrobo road, all being funded by the European Union through the Government of Ghana initiative.
“We cannot sit down while roads in such an important agricultural area deteriorate and the people suffer and this is why we are rehabilitating them to improve their living standards,” Mr Bayon stated.
At Donkorkrom, the district capital, the minister was happy about the work on the streets, which were being tarred for the first time, and expressed the hope that completion of work would uplift the image of the town.
Mr Bayon expressed the government’s gratitude to the European Union for its assistance for the projects.
The Eastern Regional Engineer of the Ghana Highway Authority, Mr Bernard Badu, who conducted the minister round the various projects, said the district had 588 kilometres of roads out of which 57.7 kilometres, constituting 10 per cent had been tarred, adding that those not tarred were periodically rehabilitated at least twice a year to make them motorable at all times.
The District Chief Executive for the area, Mr Solomon Fordjour, said considering the rate at which construction works were going on, the district would soon have most of its roads in good shape.
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