a:3:{s:4:"time";i:1778266460;s:3:"ttl";i:600;s:4:"data";a:15:{i:0;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"285";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:76:"Ibrahim Mahama’s Engineers & Planners Secures $205 Million Financing Boost";s:4:"slug";s:70:"ibrahim-mahamas-engineers-planners-secures-205-million-financing-boost";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";s:249:"Engineers & Planners, led by Ibrahim Mahama, has secured a $205 million financing package arranged by Stanbic Bank Ghana and Standard Bank of South Africa. The funding will support the company’s expansion and operations in Ghana’s mining sector.";s:7:"content";s:1564:"<p>Ghanaian-owned mining and construction firm Engineers &amp; Planners Company Limited (E&amp;P) has secured a significant US$205 million financing package to strengthen its operations and expand its footprint in the extractive sector.</p>
<p>The deal was arranged by Stanbic Bank Ghana in partnership with Standard Bank, marking one of the notable private-sector financing arrangements in Ghana’s mining services industry in recent times.</p>
<p>E&amp;P is led by Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama, whose company has grown into one of the country’s largest indigenous mining and construction service providers. The new funding is expected to support fleet expansion, equipment acquisition, and ongoing mining contracts, reinforcing the company’s capacity to deliver large-scale projects.</p>
<p>Industry watchers say the financing package signals continued investor confidence in Ghana’s mining sector, particularly in homegrown firms with proven operational track records. It also reflects the role of local and regional financial institutions in backing major infrastructure and extractive industry projects.</p>
<p>While full details of the financing structure have not been publicly disclosed, analysts note that such capital injections are critical for heavy-equipment-intensive operations like mining services, where upfront investment costs are substantial.</p>
<p>The development further positions Engineers &amp; Planners as a key player in Ghana’s mining value chain, with the potential to deepen local participation in the sector.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"390";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"4";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"4";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";N;s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-03-04 09:18:08";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202603/image_870x580_69a7f849cf135.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202603/image_870x_69a7f849d9ae3.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202603/image_694x532_69a7f849e367b.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202603/image_430x256_69a7f849e9c9b.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202603/image_140x98_69a7f849ed17a.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Mary Adofo";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"mary-adofo";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:1;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"246";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:91:"GRA Rejects Spare Parts Traders’ Price Hike Claims, Says New VAT System Will Reduce Costs";s:4:"slug";s:87:"gra-rejects-spare-parts-traders-price-hike-claims-says-new-vat-system-will-reduce-costs";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";s:188:"Ghana Revenue Authority GRA Ghana VAT Act 1151 New VAT System Abossey Okai Traders Spare Parts Dealers Input VAT Tax Reform Ghana Ghana Business News Price Increase Debate Tax Policy Ghana";s:7:"summary";s:309:"The Ghana Revenue Authority has dismissed concerns by spare parts traders that the new VAT regime under Act 1151 will cause price hikes. In a February 10 press release, the GRA said the fears stem from a misunderstanding of input VAT and insisted the new system will reduce costs for businesses and consumers.";s:7:"content";s:2089:"<p>The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has strongly pushed back against concerns raised by spare parts dealers over the country’s new Value Added Tax (VAT) regime, insisting that the changes will not lead to price increases as feared.</p>
<p>In a press release dated February 10, 2026, the GRA described the concerns by the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Traders Association as a “fundamental misunderstanding” of how the new VAT system under Act 1151 works.</p>
<p>The traders had earlier warned that the implementation of the new VAT structure could result in higher prices, market distortion, and an unfair tax burden on their businesses. However, the GRA says those claims are inaccurate.</p>
<p>According to the Authority, the new VAT system is designed to make tax administration more transparent and efficient, while ultimately reducing the cost burden on businesses and consumers.</p>
<p>At the centre of the disagreement is the issue of input VAT — the tax businesses pay on goods and services they purchase. Under the revised system, businesses are allowed to claim input VAT as a credit against the VAT they collect from customers. This means traders can offset the tax they pay on imports and supplies, preventing double taxation.</p>
<p>The GRA explained that this mechanism ensures that taxes are charged only on the value added at each stage of the supply chain, rather than being repeatedly applied. As a result, the Authority argues that the new system should lower overall costs instead of increasing them.</p>
<p>The statement also emphasized that the GRA remains open to dialogue and engagement with stakeholders to clarify concerns and ensure smooth implementation.</p>
<p>The Authority urged spare parts dealers and other business groups to seek clarification where necessary, assuring them that the reform is aimed at strengthening compliance while protecting both businesses and consumers.</p>
<p>As discussions continue, attention will now turn to how effectively the new VAT framework is understood and implemented within Ghana’s business community.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"330";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"2";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"4";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";N;s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";s:19:"2026-03-02 12:10:52";s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-02-11 11:31:31";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202602/image_870x580_698c677d6f7a3.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202602/image_870x_698c677d7b51c.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202602/image_694x532_698c677d838df.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202602/image_430x256_698c677d888ab.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202602/image_140x98_698c677d8b676.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Mary Adofo";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"mary-adofo";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:2;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"239";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:88:"Cocoa Farmers’ Arrears: Cocobod Attributes Delays to Legacy Contract Buyers’ Retreat";s:4:"slug";s:81:"cocoa-farmers-arrears-cocobod-attributes-delays-to-legacy-contract-buyers-retreat";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";N;s:7:"content";s:1368:"<p>The Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod) has explained that delays in payments to cocoa farmers are largely due to the retreat of buyers tied to legacy contracts, a situation the board says has disrupted the usual flow of funds.</p>
<p>Cocobod noted that some international and local cocoa purchasers under previous contractual agreements have reduced their engagement or pulled back from commitments, leaving the board to manage outstanding payments to farmers. These arrears, Cocobod says, are not the result of mismanagement but rather structural challenges inherited from earlier arrangements.</p>
<p>The board emphasized that it is working diligently to settle farmers’ payments as quickly as possible while exploring mechanisms to prevent similar delays in the future. Officials also highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening contract enforcement and ensuring smoother transactions between buyers and cocoa producers.</p>
<p>Farmers, meanwhile, have expressed frustration over the delays, with some calling on both the government and Cocobod to expedite arrears payments to sustain livelihoods and support ongoing cocoa production.</p>
<p>Cocobod’s statement underscores the complex dynamics in Ghana’s cocoa industry, where historical contract structures continue to influence current financial flows, despite reforms and modernization efforts.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"318";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"1";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"4";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";N;s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";s:19:"2026-02-09 11:47:13";s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-02-09 11:07:15";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202602/image_870x580_6989c00e3d23d.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202602/image_870x_6989c00e4d893.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202602/image_694x532_6989c00e5a902.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202602/image_430x256_6989c00e63690.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202602/image_140x98_6989c00e6a0f1.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Mary Adofo";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"mary-adofo";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:3;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"210";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:39:"Bank of Ghana Cuts Policy Rate to 15.5%";s:4:"slug";s:37:"bank-of-ghana-cuts-policy-rate-to-155";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";s:101:"The Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee has cut the policy rate by 250 basis points to 15.5%.";s:7:"content";s:941:"<p></p>
<p>The Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has reduced the policy rate from 18% to 15.5%, marking a 250 basis point cut at its first meeting of the year.</p>
<p>The Committee said the decision reflects improving macroeconomic conditions, including slowing inflation and steady economic growth. The move is aimed at encouraging borrowing and investment, translating recent economic stability into broader growth.</p>
<p>Dr Johnson Asiama, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, emphasised that the rate adjustment is part of ongoing efforts to support businesses and households while maintaining overall financial stability. Analysts see this as a continuation of the central bank’s strategy to ease monetary conditions following earlier reductions in 2025.</p>
<p>This latest cut underscores the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to balancing inflation control with economic growth as the country navigates the year ahead.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"288";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"0";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"3";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";s:48:"Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama";s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-28 15:25:55";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_697a29b17b057.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_697a29b18d730.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_697a29b19ee93.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_697a29b1a929f.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_697a29b1b4c8a.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:12:"Hilda Appiah";s:11:"author_slug";s:12:"hilda-appiah";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:4;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"203";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:79:"Ghana Cuts Public Debt by GH¢100bn as Debt-to-GDP Ratio Falls Sharply to 44.5%";s:4:"slug";s:75:"ghana-cuts-public-debt-by-gh100bn-as-debt-to-gdp-ratio-falls-sharply-to-445";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";s:134:"Ghana public debt, debt-to-GDP ratio Ghana, Bank of Ghana data, fiscal consolidation Ghana, inflation Ghana 2025, monetary policy rate";s:7:"summary";s:266:"Ghana has reduced its public debt by nearly GH¢100 billion, with the debt-to-GDP ratio falling sharply to 44.5% by November 2025. Strong fiscal discipline, improved revenue mobilisation, lower inflation, and easing interest rates have contributed to the turnaround.";s:7:"content";s:3684:"<p>Ghana’s public debt position has improved significantly over the past year, with the country cutting its total debt stock by nearly GH¢100 billion and recording a sharp decline in its debt-to-GDP ratio, according to the latest data from the Bank of Ghana (BoG).</p>
<p>The Summary of Economic and Financial Data, released on January 27, 2026, shows that Ghana’s total public debt stood at GH¢644.6 billion in November 2025, equivalent to 44.5 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This represents a dramatic improvement from the 63.1 per cent of GDP recorded in November 2024, translating into a reduction of about 18 percentage points within twelve months.</p>
<p>In nominal terms, the debt stock declined from GH¢742.5 billion over the same period, underscoring the scale of the fiscal adjustment.</p>
<p>Debt composition shows broad-based moderation</p>
<p>A breakdown of the figures indicates that external debt was pegged at US$29.3 billion (GH¢319.2 billion), accounting for 22.5 per cent of GDP, while domestic debt stood at GH¢311.0 billion, representing 22.0 per cent of GDP.</p>
<p>The data points to a broad-based moderation across both domestic and external components, marking a departure from the elevated debt levels recorded in previous years.</p>
<p>Fiscal tightening drives improvement</p>
<p>The BoG attributed the sharp contraction in the debt-to-GDP ratio to a combination of robust nominal GDP growth and pronounced fiscal consolidation.</p>
<p>Government revenue mobilisation strengthened considerably, with Total Revenue and Grants reaching 13.4 per cent of GDP by November 2025, largely driven by Domestic Revenue, which accounted for 13.3 per cent of GDP.</p>
<p>At the same time, expenditure restraint played a critical role. Total expenditure was contained at 13.9 per cent of GDP, down sharply from 16.6 per cent in November 2024.</p>
<p>This discipline resulted in a positive Primary Balance (cash basis) of 1.9 per cent of GDP, indicating the government’s ability to meet interest obligations while reducing its reliance on new borrowing. Consequently, the overall fiscal deficit on a cash basis narrowed substantially to -1.4 per cent of GDP, compared with -5.2 per cent a year earlier.</p>
<p>Inflation plunges, interest rates ease</p>
<p>The fiscal recalibration coincided with a notable disinflationary trend. Year-on-year inflation for all consumer prices fell sharply to 5.4 per cent in December 2025, down from 23.8 per cent in December 2024.</p>
<p>In response to the improving price environment, the Bank of Ghana aggressively eased monetary policy, cutting the Monetary Policy Rate from 27.0 per cent at the end of 2024 to 18.0 per cent by December 2025.</p>
<p>The policy easing filtered through to the broader economy, with the average lending rate declining from 30.25 per cent to 20.45 per cent over the same period.</p>
<p>Implications for businesses and growth</p>
<p>While capital expenditure remains subdued at 0.9 per cent of GDP, limiting short-term public infrastructure opportunities, the broader macroeconomic environment is gradually shifting in favour of the private sector.</p>
<p>Reduced government borrowing is easing the crowding-out effect in the financial system, potentially freeing up credit for businesses. Private sector credit growth, though still modest in real terms, turned positive in the latter half of 2025, signalling early signs of improved financial intermediation.</p>
<p>Analysts note that if fiscal discipline is sustained alongside targeted investment, the improved debt dynamics could lay a more stable foundation for private-sector-led growth in the medium term.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"281";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"1";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"4";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";N;s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-28 12:12:01";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_6979fca399b9f.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_6979fca3d8874.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_6979fca440e7e.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_6979fca47ff74.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_6979fca4c0c69.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Mary Adofo";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"mary-adofo";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:5;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"202";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:91:"24-Hour Secretariat, ATRI Engage Nkwanta North Chiefs Over Proposed Palm Plantation Project";s:4:"slug";s:90:"24-hour-secretariat-atri-engage-nkwanta-north-chiefs-over-proposed-palm-plantation-project";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";s:142:"Nkwanta North palm plantation, 24-Hour Secretariat, ATRI Ghana, agricultural development Ghana, palm plantation project, community development";s:7:"summary";s:273:"The 24-Hour Secretariat and ATRI have engaged chiefs in the Nkwanta North District on a proposed palm plantation project aimed at boosting agriculture, creating jobs, and improving local infrastructure. Traditional authorities have pledged their support for the initiative.";s:7:"content";s:2326:"<p>A delegation from the 24-Hour Secretariat, together with Indian representatives of ATRI, an organisation based in Ghana, has visited the Nkwanta North District to engage traditional authorities on a proposed large-scale palm plantation project aimed at boosting local development.</p>
<p>The delegation met with chiefs and elders of the area to formally communicate government support for the initiative and outline plans for establishing the plantation within the district. The engagement formed part of early consultations to ensure community involvement and long-term sustainability of the project.</p>
<p>Boosting agriculture and local industry</p>
<p>The proposed palm plantation is expected to promote agricultural development and industrial growth at the community level, while supporting Ghana’s broader agenda of value addition and job creation.</p>
<p>Speaking during the engagement, Joe Onyame and Konja Samuel, lead members of the delegation, said the project is projected to create employment opportunities, stimulate local economic activity, and contribute to the provision of electricity and other essential social amenities in beneficiary communities.</p>
<p>They explained that involving traditional leaders at the initial stages of planning was critical to ensuring local ownership, smooth implementation, and sustained benefits for residents of the district.</p>
<p>Traditional authorities pledge support</p>
<p>The Paramount Chief of the Kpassa Traditional Area, Ubor Konja Thasun VI, welcomed the delegation and expressed the community’s full support for the initiative.</p>
<p>He assured the team of the readiness and commitment of traditional authorities and residents to cooperate with government and project partners to ensure the successful execution of the plantation project.</p>
<p>According to him, initiatives that combine agriculture with industrial development hold significant potential to transform rural economies and improve livelihoods.</p>
<p>Continued stakeholder engagement</p>
<p>The delegation is expected to continue consultations with key stakeholders as preparations for the project advance. Officials say the goal is to ensure that the palm plantation delivers lasting economic and social benefits to the people of Nkwanta North and surrounding communities.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"280";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"2";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"4";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";N;s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-28 12:09:50";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_6979fa3badea9.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_6979fa3bbc939.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_6979fa3bcc68c.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_6979fa3bd44ab.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_6979fa3bd8871.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Mary Adofo";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"mary-adofo";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:6;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"172";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:72:"Sankofa Innovation Summit empowers women-led SMEs to scale up businesses";s:4:"slug";s:72:"sankofa-innovation-summit-empowers-women-led-smes-to-scale-up-businesses";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";s:253:"The Sankofa Innovation Summit in Accra brought together women entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and investors to explore strategies for business growth, innovation, and market expansion, highlighting the vital role of women-led SMEs in Ghana’s economy.";s:7:"content";s:1604:"<p></p>
<p>Women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Ghana have been encouraged to embrace innovation, strategic partnerships, and market-driven solutions following the successful hosting of the Sankofa Innovation Summit in Accra.</p>
<p>The summit, organised by Duafe Organisation in partnership with SB Incubator, brought together women entrepreneurs, business executives, investors, and ecosystem players for a day of knowledge sharing and practical engagement aimed at strengthening business growth and sustainability.</p>
<p>Held at the Stanbic Incubator at Silver Star Tower, Airport City, the event created a platform for women business owners from diverse sectors to interact directly with industry leaders and gain insights into scaling operations in a competitive economic environment.</p>
<p>Key discussions focused on innovation, digital transformation, access to markets, funding opportunities, and the importance of building strategic collaborations to enhance business resilience. Participants also explored ways to position their enterprises for long-term growth while adapting to changing market demands.</p>
<p>Organisers noted that the summit was designed not only to inspire but to provide actionable tools and connections that would help women entrepreneurs overcome structural barriers and unlock new opportunities.</p>
<p>By fostering collaboration between emerging SMEs and established industry stakeholders, the Sankofa Innovation Summit reinforced the critical role women-led businesses play in Ghana’s economic development and job creation efforts.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"242";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"0";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"3";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";N;s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-22 17:28:38";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_69725c81bffe2.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_69725c81cbd8f.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_69725c81d764d.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_69725c81df5ca.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_69725c81e4684.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:12:"Hilda Appiah";s:11:"author_slug";s:12:"hilda-appiah";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:7;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"158";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:98:"GH¢107m EXIM loans recovered; questionable deals referred to security agencies – Trade Minister";s:4:"slug";s:91:"gh107m-exim-loans-recovered-questionable-deals-referred-to-security-agencies-trade-minister";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";s:118:"Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare has announced the recovery of GH¢107 million in defaulted loans from EXIM Bank.";s:7:"content";s:1524:"<p>The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, says the government has recovered GH¢107 million in defaulted loans issued by the Ghana Export-Import Bank (EXIM) as part of measures to strengthen accountability and discipline in public financing.</p>
<p>She disclosed this while addressing the public at the Government Accountability Series, noting that the recoveries followed a review of the bank’s loan portfolio and enforcement of stricter credit management procedures.</p>
<p>According to the Minister, the reforms have already begun to yield results, explaining that in 2025 alone, GH¢304 million was disbursed by EXIM Bank under more rigorous conditions to ensure beneficiaries demonstrate clear repayment capacity and economic value.</p>
<p>Mrs Ofosu-Adjare further revealed that several loan agreements deemed questionable have been referred to relevant security agencies for investigation. She explained that these cases involve irregular documentation, unexplained approvals and concerns over how the funds were utilised.</p>
<p>She stressed that public funds must not be treated as personal entitlements, adding that the government will pursue both administrative and legal options to recover monies and hold persons found culpable accountable.</p>
<p>The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to sanitising public financial institutions and ensuring that state-backed loans support productive ventures that contribute meaningfully to national development.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"223";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"0";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"3";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";s:70:"Minister of Trade,  Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare";s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";s:19:"2026-01-22 01:20:16";s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-21 15:44:34";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_6970f3104093d.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_6970f3104a8f8.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_6970f310548ae.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_6970f3105b24a.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_6970f3105e638.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:12:"Hilda Appiah";s:11:"author_slug";s:12:"hilda-appiah";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:8;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"153";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:80:"Ghana Gold Board Signs Landmark Refining Agreement to Boost Local Value Addition";s:4:"slug";s:80:"ghana-gold-board-signs-landmark-refining-agreement-to-boost-local-value-addition";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";s:116:"Ghana Gold Board, GOLDBOD, Gold Coast Refinery, Sammy Gyamfi, gold refining Ghana, value addition, ASM formalisation";s:7:"summary";s:241:"The Ghana Gold Board has signed a historic agreement with Gold Coast Refinery Company Limited to refine gold locally, aiming to boost value addition, create jobs, improve export integrity, and retain more revenue within the Ghanaian economy.";s:7:"content";s:1933:"<p>The Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD) has signed a Gold Refining Agreement with Gold Coast Refinery Company Limited, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to deepen local value addition and strengthen the gold value chain.</p>
<p>Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of GOLDBOD, Sammy Gyamfi, described the agreement as the first local gold refining partnership between the Government of Ghana and a Ghanaian-owned refinery. He noted that the deal represents a strategic shift towards refining gold domestically rather than exporting raw gold for processing abroad.</p>
<p>According to Mr. Gyamfi, the agreement is expected to retain millions of dollars in refining charges within the local economy while generating direct and indirect employment through round-the-clock refinery operations. He added that the initiative would boost tax revenues, reduce losses arising from gold undervaluation and purity discrepancies, and ensure a reliable supply of refined gold and silver for local jewellers.</p>
<p>The GOLDBOD CEO further explained that the agreement positions Ghana to achieve London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) certification, enhance the credibility of gold exports, and strengthen the formalisation and traceability of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) activities.</p>
<p>In a related development, the Head of Media Relations at GOLDBOD, Prince Kwame Minkah, disclosed that following a routine working visit to the Gold Coast Refinery, Mr. Gyamfi has called on government to invest in restoring the facility to optimal operational capacity.</p>
<p>Mr. Gyamfi noted that as the largest gold refinery in West Africa, the Gold Coast Refinery is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in refining Ghana’s gold locally for export, thereby reducing the high costs associated with overseas processing and increasing overall national returns from the precious mineral.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"210";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"0";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"4";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";N;s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-20 18:40:40";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_696fcb55e3042.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_696fcb560eea0.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_696fcb562cea9.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_696fcb565273d.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_696fcb566c5d7.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Mary Adofo";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"mary-adofo";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:9;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"118";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:97:"Mahama Administration Clears $1.47bn Energy Debt, Restores World Bank Guarantee Within First Year";s:4:"slug";s:94:"mahama-administration-clears-147bn-energy-debt-restores-world-bank-guarantee-within-first-year";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";N;s:7:"content";s:2709:"<p></p>
<p> The Mahama administration has paid a total of US$1.47 billion to clear outstanding debts in Ghana’s energy sector, successfully restoring the World Bank Partial Risk Guarantee (PRG) within its first year in office.</p>
<p>According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance on Monday, the decisive intervention has eased severe financial pressures that once threatened the stability of the country’s energy sector and wider economy.</p>
<p>When President John Dramani Mahama assumed office in January 2025, the energy sector was on the brink of collapse after years of persistent non-payment to gas suppliers serving the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) field. As a result, the World Bank’s US$500 million PRG, established in 2015 under the previous NDC government to support the Sankofa Gas Project, had been completely exhausted.</p>
<p>The guarantee was designed to assure timely payments to project partners, including ENI and Vitol. However, its depletion due to payment shortfalls had raised serious concerns about Ghana’s credibility among international investors.</p>
<p>The Finance Ministry noted that in a major show of fiscal discipline, the government fully repaid US$597.15 million, including interest, by December 31, 2025, to restore the World Bank guarantee. The move has reaffirmed Ghana’s standing as a reliable partner on the global stage.</p>
<p>Between January and December 2025, the government also settled outstanding gas invoices owed to ENI and Vitol, amounting to approximately US$480 million, thereby fully covering Ghana’s obligations under the Sankofa Gas Project.</p>
<p>The statement further disclosed that adequate budgetary provisions have now been secured to ensure timely payments going forward. Engagements with upstream partners, such as Tullow Oil and Jubilee Field operators, have resulted in a comprehensive roadmap guaranteeing full payment for all gas supplied.</p>
<p>These measures, the government stated, are designed to support reliable nationwide electricity generation, promote industrial growth, and reduce dependence on expensive liquid fuels. Increased gas production has already been recorded as Ghana accelerates efforts to scale up domestic gas supply.</p>
<p>As part of broader reforms in the energy sector, the Mahama administration has also renegotiated all Independent Power Producer (IPP) agreements to secure better value for money. In 2025 alone, the government paid approximately US$393 million in legacy IPP debts.</p>
<p>The Ministry of Finance emphasised that the reset of the energy sector reflects the administration’s commitment to sound financial management and long-term economic stability.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"150";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"1";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"3";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";s:36:"A release by the Ministry of Finance";s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";s:19:"2026-01-13 16:03:02";s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-13 15:07:18";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_69665f0eaf38b.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_69665f0ec7702.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_69665f0ed3b6f.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_69665f0eda0cf.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_69665f0ede49c.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:12:"Hilda Appiah";s:11:"author_slug";s:12:"hilda-appiah";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:10;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:3:"116";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:93:"Cedi Gains Should Reflect on Spare Parts Prices – Trade Minister Tells Abossey Okai Dealers";s:4:"slug";s:89:"cedi-gains-should-reflect-on-spare-parts-prices-trade-minister-tells-abossey-okai-dealers";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";N;s:7:"content";s:1583:"<p></p>
<p>The Minister for Trade and Industry has urged spare parts dealers at Abossey Okai to further reduce prices in response to the continued strengthening of the Ghanaian cedi, stressing that consumers must feel the impact of recent currency gains.</p>
<p>Addressing traders in the automotive hub, the Minister noted that while spare part prices have shown signs of easing, the current exchange rate environment provides room for even deeper reductions. She emphasised that fair pricing is essential to restoring public confidence and ensuring that market trends reflect real economic conditions.</p>
<p>The Minister also encouraged vehicle owners to purchase spare parts directly from authorised dealers rather than relying on intermediaries. According to her, the presence of middlemen in the supply chain often leads to unnecessary mark-ups, which undermine the benefits of lower import costs and distort pricing, even when market conditions have improved.</p>
<p>As part of government’s broader push to enhance efficiency within the automotive spare parts sector, she assured dealers—particularly those dealing in Sprinter bus components—that their concerns would be addressed through continued engagement with relevant stakeholders. The aim, she said, is to promote transparency, eliminate artificial price inflation, and ensure fairness across the entire spare parts value chain.</p>
<p>The call forms part of ongoing efforts to align local prices with macroeconomic improvements and ensure that the benefits of currency stability reach ordinary consumers.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"148";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"1";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"4";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";s:14:"Trade minister";s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-13 08:47:55";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_696603ec16907.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_696603ec20e61.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_696603ec2a664.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_696603ec30850.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_696603ec33e7d.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Mary Adofo";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"mary-adofo";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:11;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:2:"69";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:79:"Asantehene Urges Bank of Ghana to Lower Interest Rates to Boost Economic Growth";s:4:"slug";s:79:"asantehene-urges-bank-of-ghana-to-lower-interest-rates-to-boost-economic-growth";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";s:3:"BOG";s:7:"summary";s:330:"The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, urged the Bank of Ghana to lower interest rates to boost economic growth and encourage private-sector investment. He emphasized the importance of a stable currency and prudent monetary policy. He also described the New Bank Square as a symbol of national confidence and institutional renewal.";s:7:"content";s:1202:"<p>The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on the Bank of Ghana to chart a path toward lower interest rates as a means of stimulating business growth and encouraging private-sector investment.</p>
<p>Speaking during his first visit to the Bank of Ghana’s new office in Accra on Wednesday, Otumfuo noted that while recent stability in the foreign exchange market is encouraging, the broader economy cannot fully recover if high borrowing costs continue to constrain industry and job creation.</p>
<p>The Asantehene emphasized that a stable currency and prudent monetary policy, including effective interest rate management, are critical to sustainable economic growth.</p>
<p>He also urged political leaders to support the Bank of Ghana, enabling it to carry out its mandate independently and professionally.</p>
<p>Describing the New Bank Square as a “monument to national confidence and institutional renewal,” Otumfuo said the facility should inspire higher professionalism and efficiency among central bank staff.</p>
<p>He added that the new headquarters symbolizes the resilience of the Bank of Ghana and its readiness to confront complex monetary and financial challenges.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:3:"100";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"2";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"4";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";s:10:"Asantehene";s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-08 08:52:16";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_695f6f38eef2d.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_695f6f3906c1f.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_695f6f3910b93.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_695f6f3917176.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_695f6f391b3cc.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Mary Adofo";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"mary-adofo";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:12;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:2:"55";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:63:"GoldBod Recorded No Losses in 2025 — GHS960m Revenue Declared";s:4:"slug";s:59:"goldbod-recorded-no-losses-in-2025-ghs960m-revenue-declared";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";N;s:7:"content";s:1877:"<p></p>
<p>The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has dismissed claims that the institution recorded losses in 2025, stating that the board ended the year with revenues exceeding GHS960 million.</p>
<p>Speaking in response to public commentary surrounding the Gold-for-Reserves programme, Mr Gyamfi described reports of a US$214 million loss as inaccurate and misleading. He explained that GoldBod’s unaudited management accounts show strong financial performance, with total operational expenditure kept below GHS120 million throughout the year.</p>
<p>According to him, GoldBod, as a public entity, reports surpluses rather than profits, and based on available figures, the board is projected to post a surplus ranging between GHS 700 million and GHS 800 million for the 2025 financial year.</p>
<p>Mr Gyamfi further rejected suggestions that any alleged losses had been shifted onto the Bank of Ghana's books, describing such claims as illogical. He clarified that the Gold-for-Reserves programme is a central bank initiative introduced in 2022 and has always been accounted for within the Bank of Ghana’s financial records, not GoldBod’s.</p>
<p>Established in April 2025, GoldBod, he noted, inherited weak systems and outdated structures, which required significant institutional reforms, including the creation of new departments, policies, and operational frameworks. Despite these challenges, the board was still able to record strong financial results within its first year of operation.</p>
<p>Mr Gyamfi disclosed that external audits are currently ongoing, with the Auditor-General expected to finalise the process by the end of the first quarter of 2026. He assured the public that the audited financial statements would be made available once the process is completed to ensure transparency and accountability.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:2:"83";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"3";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"3";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";s:61:"Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi";s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";s:19:"2026-01-03 17:04:06";s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2026-01-03 16:54:26";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202601/image_870x580_6959434c81f9c.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202601/image_870x_6959434c8f5a5.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202601/image_694x532_6959434c9953d.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202601/image_430x256_6959434c9f4b8.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202601/image_140x98_6959434ca321b.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:12:"Hilda Appiah";s:11:"author_slug";s:12:"hilda-appiah";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:13;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:2:"28";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:81:"Minority raises concerns over Bawa Rock’s sole Licence under the GoldBod Scheme";s:4:"slug";s:78:"minority-raises-concerns-over-bawa-rocks-sole-licence-under-the-goldbod-scheme";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";N;s:7:"summary";N;s:7:"content";s:1555:"<p></p>
<p>The Minority in Parliament has questioned the decision to grant Bawa Rock Company Limited a sole licence to aggregate gold purchases under the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) arrangement.</p>
<p>According to the Minority, the move raises concerns about transparency, competition and fairness in the gold trading sector, particularly at a time when the country is seeking to stabilise its economy.</p>
<p>Addressing the media, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, described the arrangement as a monopoly that departs from previous systems which allowed multiple licensed aggregators to operate.</p>
<p>He questioned the criteria used in selecting Bawa Rock as the only licensed aggregator and called for clarity on the company’s ownership structure and the process that led to the approval.</p>
<p>The Minority argues that concentrating such a critical role in the hands of a single private company could negatively affect pricing, accountability and confidence in the GoldBod initiative.</p>
<p>The concerns come amid ongoing debate over the performance of Ghana’s gold-related programmes, following reports suggesting significant financial losses under earlier gold purchasing arrangements involving the Bank of Ghana.</p>
<p>While GoldBod has dismissed claims of losses and insists it is operating profitably, the Minority is demanding greater transparency and parliamentary oversight to safeguard public interest and ensure the scheme delivers its intended economic benefits.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:2:"49";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"0";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"3";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";s:89:"The ranking member of Parliament's economy and development committee Kojo Oppong  Nkrumah";s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";N;s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2025-12-29 16:06:26";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202512/image_870x580_6952a65ca4370.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202512/image_870x_6952a65cb8960.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202512/image_694x532_6952a65cc9bec.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202512/image_430x256_6952a65cd6151.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202512/image_140x98_6952a65cdfd57.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:12:"Hilda Appiah";s:11:"author_slug";s:12:"hilda-appiah";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}i:14;O:8:"stdClass":45:{s:2:"id";s:1:"7";s:7:"lang_id";s:1:"1";s:5:"title";s:79:"Ghana’s International Reserves Projected to Reach $13 Billion in 2025 – BoG";s:4:"slug";s:48:"ghana-international-reserves-13-billion-2025-bog";s:10:"title_hash";N;s:8:"keywords";s:145:"Ghana international reserves, Bank of Ghana, BoG 2025 outlook, Ghana economy, foreign reserves Ghana, cedi stability, Ghana macroeconomic reforms";s:7:"summary";s:196:"Ghana’s gross international reserves are projected to reach $13 billion by the end of 2025, according to the Bank of Ghana, reflecting improved exports, remittances, and macroeconomic stability.";s:7:"content";s:2029:"<p data-start="1123" data-end="1343">Ghana’s gross international reserves are projected to reach <strong data-start="1183" data-end="1217">$13 billion by the end of 2025</strong>, the <strong data-start="1223" data-end="1246">Bank of Ghana (BoG)</strong> has announced, signalling continued recovery and strengthening of the country’s external sector.</p>
<p data-start="1345" data-end="1685">According to the central bank, the projected growth in reserves will be supported by improved export earnings, increased remittance inflows, prudent foreign exchange management, and sustained fiscal and monetary policy coordination. These developments form part of broader efforts to restore macroeconomic stability and investor confidence.</p>
<p data-start="1687" data-end="2006">The BoG explained that the anticipated reserve build-up would enhance Ghana’s ability to absorb external shocks, stabilise the exchange rate, and meet external payment obligations. Stronger reserves are also expected to improve the country’s balance of payments position and support overall financial sector resilience.</p>
<p data-start="2008" data-end="2322">Key contributors to the positive outlook include growth in gold, cocoa, and oil exports, alongside expanding non-traditional exports. The central bank also cited ongoing debt restructuring initiatives and programme support from international partners as critical factors easing pressure on foreign exchange demand.</p>
<p data-start="2324" data-end="2583">Economic analysts believe that achieving the $13 billion reserve target would represent a major milestone for Ghana’s economic recovery, though they stress the need for continued fiscal discipline, export diversification, and consistent policy implementation.</p>
<p data-start="2585" data-end="2802">The Bank of Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining price stability and safeguarding the economy, noting that building adequate international reserves remains a core pillar of long-term economic sustainability.</p>";s:11:"category_id";s:2:"10";s:8:"image_id";s:1:"9";s:12:"optional_url";N;s:9:"pageviews";s:1:"6";s:13:"comment_count";s:1:"0";s:9:"need_auth";s:1:"0";s:12:"slider_order";s:1:"1";s:14:"featured_order";s:1:"1";s:12:"is_scheduled";s:1:"0";s:10:"visibility";s:1:"1";s:17:"show_right_column";s:1:"1";s:9:"post_type";s:7:"article";s:10:"video_path";N;s:13:"video_storage";s:5:"local";s:9:"image_url";N;s:9:"video_url";N;s:16:"video_embed_code";N;s:7:"user_id";s:1:"1";s:6:"status";s:1:"1";s:7:"feed_id";N;s:8:"post_url";N;s:13:"show_post_url";s:1:"0";s:17:"image_description";N;s:17:"show_item_numbers";s:1:"0";s:14:"is_poll_public";s:1:"1";s:15:"link_list_style";s:156:"a:3:{i:1;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:2;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}i:3;a:2:{s:5:"style";s:4:"none";s:6:"status";i:0;}}";s:11:"recipe_info";N;s:9:"post_data";N;s:10:"updated_at";s:19:"2025-12-26 19:10:11";s:10:"created_at";s:19:"2025-12-26 18:49:42";s:10:"image_data";s:337:"img_bg::uploads/images/202512/image_870x580_694ed84560c14.jpg||img_df::uploads/images/202512/image_870x_694ed84568812.jpg||img_sl::uploads/images/202512/image_694x532_694ed8456ecc6.jpg||img_md::uploads/images/202512/image_430x256_694ed84571ede.jpg||img_sm::uploads/images/202512/image_140x98_694ed845733b1.jpg||img_mi::jpg||img_st::local";s:13:"category_name";s:7:"Economy";s:13:"category_slug";s:7:"Economy";s:14:"category_color";s:7:"#691b9a";s:15:"author_username";s:10:"Xgent_News";s:11:"author_slug";s:10:"xgent_news";s:15:"lang_short_form";s:2:"en";}}}