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Enforce policies to protect water bodies- Amb. Samuel Owusu to Govt

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The United Nations (UN) Eminent Peace Ambassador to Ghana, Dr Samuel Ben Owusu has called on the Government to enforce policies that would help protect water bodies in the country.

He observed that numerous water bodies in Ghana have been polluted by human activities such as galamsey, the disposal of refuse, the construction of structures in waterways, and the obstruction of waterways.

The above, he noticed, has become a threat to Ghana’s water, expressing worry that if care is not taken, Ghana may import water or buy water at a very high price in future.

The UN Peace Ambassador gave the warning after his return from the United Nations Global Water Sustainable Conference held in New York.

The United Nations Global Water Sustainable Conference was a three-day event held from March 22nd to March 24th, 2023 in New York

It was aimed at reaffirming the international agreed water-related goals and targets including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Amb. Dr Samuel Owusu represented the West African Mission of the International Association of World Peace Advocate and Ghana respectively.

Read Also: Amb. Samuel Owusu calls on UN to help Ghana achieve sustainable developed water systems

Right when he returned to Ghana, he spoke with the media at the Kotoka International Airport where he expressed worry over the matter.

He observed that most politicians were behind illegal mining directly or indirectly.

For those who engage in activities that pollute water, bodies he warned them to put a stop to it, stating that they will also be affected in future

Meanwhile, as the General Overseer of The Pottersville Church International, Covenant Christian Leadership College, Dr Samuel Ben Owusu said he was going to use his platform to educate the public on the need to protect water in the country.

He also said he would assist the government with ideas and the knowledge gained on innovations at the conference in order to promote a sustainable developed water system in the country.

Watch video below:

Ghana| Atinkaonline.com| Porcia Oforiwaa Ofori

Buduburam: Over 1000 residents evicted following court order

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Over a thousand residents of Sun City, a suburb of Buduburam in the Central Region, have been rendered homeless by a litigant in a land dispute.

The residents complained that they were not given sufficient time to vacate the area.

The residents were evicted from their homes by the litigant identified as SNBB under the supervision of a task force and the police. It was such an emotional spectacle.

The affected individuals’ personal possessions were removed from their rooms and locked with new padlocks provided by the plaintiff.

The litigant claims to have prevailed in court against the area’s property owners .

Some stranded residents shared their frustrations with Atinka News.

The DCE for Gomoa East, Hon Solomon Darko Quarm expressed worry and disappointment over the manner of eviction.

He, however, admonished stranded victims to go back to their houses until the right procedure is followed.

Ghana| Atinkaonline.com| Samuel Nyamekye Junior

We can’t cook with GHC0.97 anymore – Sch. Feeding caterers tell Gov’t


Caterers of the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) want urgent increment in the feeding grant, insisting that the amount being allocated by the Government to prepare daily nutritious meals for pupils is woefully insignificant.


According to them, the GHC1.00 is not enough to purchase food items on the market to prepare quality meals and serve in the right quantity for the children, most of whom come to school on empty stomach.


They disclosed that an amount of GHC0.03 is even deducted from source as tax component from each of the GHC1.00 paid to them [caterers].
This implies that the caterers do not receive exactly the GHC1.00, but GHC0.97 per child per day.


Some of the caterers in the Bono East Region complained bitterly to some officials of the Ghana School Feeding Programme and the World Food Programme who had come to the region for a weeklong joint monitoring to assess the performance of the caterers and the impact of the school feeding programme.


The distraught caterers even though appreciated the Government for the introduction of the school feeding programme and the great impact it is making in the lives of millions of Ghanaian children in the deprived schools, they disclosed how it is sometimes inconveniencing most of them.


“We have tried so much to be quiet over the years hoping that something will be done to increase the feeding grant to at least GHC2.00 or GhC2.50 so that we can meet the cost of food items on the market but to no avail. We are crying and crying but nobody seems to hear us out. Prices of items are being increased almost every day, and so the President must know that we cannot go to the market with the same GHc1.00”.


The caterers asserted that a bag of beans which was sold between GhC250.00 and GhC300.00 last year, now sells between GhC800.00 and GhC950.00. A bowl of gari has also moved from GhC6.00 to GhC25.00, a maxi bag of local rice moved from GhC200.00 to GhC450.00 and prices of cooking oil, meat, fish and vegetables have also gone up astronomically especially in the last 6 months.


They indicated that, even though it is a policy direction for all the caterers to patronize locally produced foodstuffs from the local farmers, almost all the caterers prefer the imported foods because they are far cheaper.


The caterers said that some of them are still managing to cook for the school children because the imported food suppliers are always willing to supply food and other items like tin tomatoes, cooking oil and canned fish to them on credit, unlike the local farmers.


They also raised serious concern about the long delay in the payment of their arrears by the government, which they indicated, put them under unnecessary pressure.

“We are supposed to pre-finance the cooking for just one term and receive payment the following term. But for a long time now, the government always fails to pay us on time; and most at times we do not receive our payment in full. Sometimes instead of 66 cooking days’ arrears, the government can decide to pay us 20, 25 or 30 days and we will have to struggle for a long time before we will receive the remaining payments. And because we have to pay our cooks and suppliers at all cost, we always have to go and borrow from different sources, which put us in an uncomfortable situation”.

In reaction to the concerns raised by the caterers, the GSFP National Coordinator Mrs. Gertrude Quashigah appealed to the caterers to calm down and exercise restraint, noting that everything is being done towards the upwards adjustment of the feeding grant.


She said management of GSFP has been engaging the government for a while now on the issue. According to her, the GSFP has submitted a compelling proposal to the government through the supervisory ministry for an upward adjustment of the feeding grant.


Mrs. Quashigah further revealed that between GHC2.00 and GHC3.00 has been proposed taken into account the prevailing economic trend in the country. She expressed optimism that government would respond positively to the proposal.
She recalled that in 2018 government accepted GSFP’s proposal and increased the feeding grant from GHp.80 to GHC1.00. She therefore assured the caterers and Ghanaians in general that government is genuinely committed to the sustainability of the programme.

Akufo-Addo grants presidential pardon to Abuga Pele over ill-health

The former Member of Parliament for Chiana/Paga, Abuga Pele, has received a presidential pardon.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo granted the presidential pardon to him on grounds of ill-health.

It is reported that last month, Abuga Pele was taken ill at the Nsawam Maximum Security Prison, from where he was transferred to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital.

He was admitted at the High Dependency Unit (HDU) of the hospital but has since been discharged, the report said.

Abuga Pele, who was an MP for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) was sentenced to a six-year imprisonment by an Accra High Court in 2018.

The court found him guilty of causing financial loss to the state while serving as the National Coordinator of the defunct Ghana Youth Employment and Entrepreneurial Development Agency (GYEEDA).

Source: ghanaweb

Improving child protection: Echoing Hills Village rebrands to Blissful children’s home

Echoing Hill Village is a residential home that provides care and support for vulnerable children, including those who are missing, abandoned, or orphaned.

 The home has been in existence for the past 30 years, offering a safe haven and hope to many children in need.

Through the Missing Persons program on Atinka TV, some of these children have been successfully reunited with their families, restoring joy and hope to many distressed households.

Blissful children's home

In a bid to further strengthen the protection and well-being of the children, the home, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Tema-Sunshine, has rebranded from Echoing Hills Village to Blissful Children’s Home.

This rebranding reflects a renewed vision, stronger collaboration, and a deeper commitment to creating greater opportunities for the care, protection, and overall development of the children.

Blissful children's home

During the ceremony, Serwah Owiah, the Projects and Programs Manager for Echoing Hills Village now known as Blissful Children’s Home, stood before the gathering and reflected on the organization’s journey. She spoke thoughtfully about how far they had come, recalling the many experiences that had shaped their path over the years.

As she addressed the audience, she explained that those experiences had not only tested them but had also transformed their vision. Through their work, their understanding of the children’s needs had deepened, and with that understanding came a stronger commitment to build an environment that is more inclusive, more loving, and truly empowering for every child they serve.

Serwah emphasized that this growth called for change. She shared that to fully embrace this evolved vision, the organization needed a renewed and refreshed approach one that would open the door to new opportunities and endless possibilities.

With a sense of hope and determination in her voice, she concluded by affirming that this moment marked the beginning of something new. It was not just a name change, but a bold step into a new chapter—one filled with purpose, promise, and a brighter future for the children.

Blissful children's home

The Charter President of the Rotary Club of Tema-Sunshine, Mr. Cosme, expressed his excitement during the ceremony as the club officially handed over a newly completed dining hall to Echoing Hills Village, now known as Blissful Children’s Home. He described the moment as an opportunity to “unleash the magic of Rotary” within the community, marking a meaningful milestone in their service.

He explained that the project was undertaken to support children with developmental challenges and other vulnerable groups by providing improved access to essential health support and a more hygienic environment.

Blissful children's home

Mr. Cosme also took a moment to express his deep gratitude to God for His continuous guidance and provision. He further commended members of the club for their generosity and commitment, noting that their contributions had made a significant impact on the success of the initiative.

During the ceremony, the new dining hall was opened, which will serve as a place for these vulnerable children to eat.

Ghana|Stinkaonline.com|Mavis Acheampong

Improving Child Protection: Echoing Hills Village rebrands to Blissful children’s home

Child protection is an important part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 16, which focuses on keeping children safe from harm.

For over 30 years, Echoing Hills Village has cared for vulnerable children, including those who are missing, abandoned, or orphaned. Through the “Missing Children” program hosted by Sandra Nana Adwoa Annan on Atinka TV, some children have been reunited with their families, bringing hope to many homes.

To improve care and better protect children, the home has rebranded as Blissful Children’s Home in partnership with the Rotary Club of Tema-Sunshine. This change reflects a new vision to create a safer, more loving, and supportive environment for every child.

At the launch, the Programs Manager, Serwah Owiah, explained that their experiences over the years have helped them better understand children’s needs. She said the rebranding is not just a name change, but a fresh start to do more for the children and give them a brighter future.

The Rotary Club also donated a new dining hall to the home. This will provide a clean and safe place for children to eat, improving their health and well-being.

Overall, the changes at Blissful Children’s Home show how teamwork and community support can help protect children and give them a better life.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

Mahama Hosts Mnangagwa, Calls for Stronger Intra-African Trade and Sustainable Mining Cooperation

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President John Dramani Mahama has received President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe at Peduase Lodge, where he emphasised the urgent need to boost intra-African trade, investment, and cooperation.

The meeting sought to strengthen bilateral relations between Ghana and Zimbabwe and advance economic collaboration across Africa.

He highlighted the importance of increasing trade within the continent for economic growth and sustainable development, calling on African nations to reduce trade barriers and implement policies that encourage investment.

In addition, President Mahama emphasised the need for Ghana and Zimbabwe to cooperate to advance ethical and sustainable mining methods, pointing out that both nations are endowed with abundant natural resources.

According to him, cooperation in the mining industry will guarantee that natural resources are appropriately handled for the benefit of the populace while preserving the environment.

President Mnangagwa reiterated Zimbabwe’s commitment to developing trade and investment relations with Ghana and other African nations while expressing gratitude for the kind reception.

It is anticipated that the involvement will strengthen diplomatic ties and assist current African regional integration initiatives.

Twifo Akutuase: Community Calls For Action On Clean Water And Quality Education To Meet SDGs

The chief of Twifo Akutuase, Nana Kojo Botwey I, has made a strong appeal to government and stakeholders to urgently address critical challenges affecting access to clean water and quality education in the community, in line with global development goals.

Speaking on the situation, Nana Botwey I highlighted that the lack of potable drinking water continues to threaten the health and well-being of residents. Although the community demonstrated commitment to SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by mobilizing resources to construct a mechanized borehole at a cost of approximately 270,000 Ghana cedis, he stressed that more sustainable and government-supported water systems are needed to ensure safe and reliable access for all.

On education, the chief noted that Twifo Akutuase faces a shortage of qualified teachers and inadequate school infrastructure, which undermines progress toward SDG 4 (Quality Education). In an effort to bridge the gap, the community has taken the initiative to hire six local teachers, placing a heavy financial burden on residents. However, this intervention alone is not sufficient to guarantee inclusive and equitable quality education for children in the area.

Nana Botwey I also raised concern about a deteriorating and dangerous bridge, which affects safe access to school and other essential services, further hindering development efforts.

He therefore called on Hon. Theophilus T.D. Vondee, Member of Parliament for the Twifo Atti-Morkwa Constituency, as well as other government officials and stakeholders, to support the community with improved water infrastructure, deployment of trained teachers, and better educational facilities.

Community members echoed the chief’s concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for interventions that align with national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals. They also appealed to the Deputy CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Daakyehene Akwesi Ankerah, and other partners to assist in addressing these challenges.

The PTA Chairman, Mr. Kofi Pentle, reiterated that despite efforts by school authorities and the community, little progress has been made, and the situation continues to affect teaching and learning outcomes.

The people of Twifo Akutuase remain hopeful that with coordinated support, the community can achieve improved access to clean water and quality education, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for all.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Sandra Nana Adwoa Annan

Prophet Nakoa Nazareth Express Gratitude to Ga Mantse for Distinguished Honour

‎ Leader of the Spiritual and Prophets Churches Council and also Founder of Israel King of Jews Church,  Prophet Nakoa Nazareth Jamson Ansah has expressed deep appreciation to Ga Mantse Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru Nii II for crowning him as Nii Ayi Ladzelc of the Onmrako Adine family.

The honouring took place at the Ga Traditional Council on Monday, March 30, 2026, after the honour , he expressed his sincere appreciation to Ga Mantse for honouring him in such a way.

‎He further pledged his solidarity to stand with the people to ensure their prosperity, he added that people say lots of negative things about the Ga community but it looks otherwise.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

BECE Candidates Will Choose Schools After Results Under New System

Source: Nana Achiaa Aboagye

Ghana’s Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced a significant overhaul of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) placement system, introducing a new policy that will allow candidates to choose their preferred senior high schools only after their results are released.

According to the Minister, the reform is designed to promote a more informed and merit-based selection process. “This policy will ensure a more informed and merit-based selection process,” he stated, explaining that students will now make choices based on their actual performance rather than predictions.

The move comes in response to persistent concerns surrounding the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS), which has been criticised over issues of transparency and fairness.

Highlighting the broader objective of the reform, Mr. Iddrisu noted that the directive is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen discipline, integrity, and accountability within the education system.

He also issued a warning regarding examination eligibility, stressing that only final-year students will be permitted to sit for the BECE. “Any parent or guardian who permits such action will face legal consequences,” he cautioned.

Additionally, the Minister revealed that a portion of placement slots will be reserved for alumni, though further details on the implementation are yet to be provided.

Conclusion
The Ministry of Education says the new measures form part of a wider reform agenda aimed at improving discipline, efficiency, transparency, and fairness across Ghana’s education sector.

Authorities believe the initiatives will enhance access to quality education, ease classroom congestion, and provide better support for students—particularly in underserved communities—ultimately helping to build a more skilled and competitive workforce for national development.

Three Years On, Tongu Flood Victims Still Wait as Chief Pleads for Help

Togbe Komla Sakpiti V rarely raises his voice in public, but these days the weight pressing on the Bakpa Awadiwoekome stool is hard to hide. Since the Akosombo Dam spillage of September–October 2023 swamped communities across the Tongu enclave, families in his jurisdiction have been living in tents or squatting with relatives, waiting for a resettlement promise that has yet to materialise.

The disaster displaced tens of thousands in North, Central and South Tongu, submerging homes, farms and clinics. In the months that followed, governments announced committees and funds — a panel was set up under the previous administration, dissolved after the 2024 transition, then revived by the new NDC government. But nearly three years later, residents say they have heard nothing concrete.

“We don’t know whether to rebuild or keep waiting,” one elder in Awadiwoekome told neighbours at a recent community meeting. Togbe Sakpiti V, whose people still fetch water from unsafe sources and sleep under leaking tarpaulins, is now fielding daily pressure from youth groups and mothers who want answers.

Three Years On Tongu Flood Victims Still Wait as Chief Pleads for Help

Official records show that a resettlement plan was launched in 2024 with GH¢200 million committed for 2,803 houses in Tongu, and officials spoke of 115 units being built and later of 2,225 homes in phases. Yet visits to Degorme, Aveyime and nearby islands find hundreds — pregnant women, children, fishermen who lost nets and canoes — still in classroom shelters and tents, without clinics or livelihood support. Absence of a clear timetable and transparent register of beneficiaries has deepened frustration.

For Togbe Sakpiti V, the human toll is what matters: a community reluctant to trust official calendars, families divided between camps and host households, and young people drifting away. “The chief is not against government,” a local teacher explained, “but he is asked every week: what do we tell our children?”

As rainy seasons return and VRA warns of future controlled spills, Togbe Sakpiti V is appealing for one thing he says would calm tempers — a public update, names on a list, and work crews on actual sites in Bakpa Awadiwoekome, not just press statements. For now, life remains in limbo: nights under canvas, days borrowing cooking space from relatives, and a chief balancing custom with a growing demand for action.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Christopher Pappoe

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Hans Sarpei Urges Patience Amid Otto Addo Exit; Says World Cup Qualification Should Take Priority

Former Ghana international Hans Sarpei has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding the future of Black Stars head coach Otto Addo, urging patience despite recent disappointment at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking on the matter, Sarpei acknowledged the team’s underwhelming AFCON campaign but emphasized that Ghana’s World Cup qualification ambitions should take priority.

“AFCON was disappointing, yes, but World Cup qualification is what truly matters at this stage. He should be allowed to finish what he started,” Sarpei stated.

The former defender also drew comparisons with Ghana’s memorable 2010 World Cup squad, highlighting key differences between that era and the current team.

“The success in 2010 was built on chemistry, confidence, and experience. This is a completely different era with its own challenges,” he added.

Sarpei’s comments come amid growing calls for the dismissal of Otto Addo, as pressure mounts on the Ghana Football Association to make a decision on the coach’s future.

Mahama Hosts Mnangagwa at State Banquet, Celebrates Ghana–Zimbabwe Ties

Source: Mavis Fantevi

President John Dramani Mahama has hosted Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa at a State Banquet held in his honour as part of the ongoing three-day State Visit to Ghana.

The event which took place on Wednesday April 1, 2026, marked by displays of cultural exchange and diplomatic goodwill, highlighted the deep historical and political ties between the two nations.

Addressing guests at the banquet, President Mahama underscored the long-standing relationship between Ghana and Zimbabwe, tracing it back to the era of Africa’s liberation struggles.

He noted that the bond between the two countries “predates formal diplomacy” and was shaped by the vision and leadership of pan-African icons such as Kwame Nkrumah and the late Robert Mugabe.

He emphasized that the shared ideals of freedom, dignity, and unity remain central to both nations, describing the occasion as “not merely ceremonial; it is a celebration of a relationship shaped by history, enriched by shared experiences, and sustained by genuine human connections.”

President Mnangagwa, in his remarks, reflected on Ghana’s pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, expressing deep appreciation for the support received during that period.

“Most of my colleagues received training here in Ghana for the armed liberation of Zimbabwe. We are forever grateful to Ghana,” he said.

He added that the visit offers renewed prospects for strengthening economic collaboration, particularly through business-to-business engagements, noting that the State Visit reaffirms the enduring partnership between the two countries.

The banquet also featured an exchange of symbolic gifts.

President Mnangagwa was presented with traditional Ghanaian textiles, including fugu and kente, while he in turn gifted President Mahama a crocodile skin bag and a unique artefact, signifying the cultural richness and mutual respect shared by both nations.

The State Banquet concluded with a renewed commitment by Ghana and Zimbabwe to deepen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, and sustainable development, reinforcing a partnership rooted in history, trust, and shared aspirations.