Okudzeto Ablakwa Pays Medical Bills for 85 Patients Amid Rising Healthcare Cost Concerns

Najat Adamu
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Okudzeto Ablakwa Pays Medical Bills for 85 Patients Amid Rising Healthcare Cost Concerns

Source: Mavis Fantevi

Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has settled the medical bills of 85 patients across several health facilities in his constituency, in an intervention that comes at a time of growing concern over the cost of healthcare in Ghana.

The gesture, announced during the Easter period, targeted patients on admission who were unable to fully cover their treatment expenses.

According to the MP, the beneficiaries were receiving care at Battor Catholic Hospital, St. Anne’s Polyclinic in Tagadzi, Juapong Health Centre, VRA Hospital in Akosombo, Fodzoku Health Centre, Mafi Dedukope Health Centre, Mafi Adidome Health Centre, and Podoe Health Centre.

“In the spirit of Easter, I have paid the full medical bills of all 85 beloved North Tongu constituents on admission in the following hospitals,” he stated in a social media post.

The intervention highlights the financial pressure many Ghanaians continue to face in accessing healthcare, despite the presence of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Patients often encounter additional costs such as laboratory tests, medications, and other services not fully covered by insurance, leaving many to rely on personal funds or external support.

Health policy analysts have repeatedly raised concerns about out-of-pocket payments, which remain a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for low-income households. In some cases, patients are unable to leave health facilities after treatment due to unpaid bills.

Mr. Ablakwa’s move underscores the role of individual and community-level support systems in bridging gaps within the healthcare system, especially during periods when economic pressures are high.

He also wished the beneficiaries a speedy recovery and expressed hope that continued attention will be given to improving healthcare affordability across the country.

President Mahama Heads to France for One Health Summit and Talks With Macron

Najat Adamu
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President Mahama Heads to France for One Health Summit and Talks With Macron

President John Dramani Mahama has departed for an official visit to France, where he is expected to participate in the 2026 One Health Summit and hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron.

The visit, undertaken at the invitation of President Macron, will see the Ghanaian leader first attend the global summit in Lyon, before proceeding to Paris for high-level diplomatic engagements at the Élysée Palace.

Focus on Global Health and Cooperation

President Mahama is scheduled to co-chair the high-level segment of the summit alongside President Macron. The gathering will bring together world leaders, health ministers, and global experts to deliberate on issues such as global health systems, sustainable food production, and coordinated responses to emerging health challenges.

As part of his participation, President Mahama will deliver two keynote addresses. The first will take place during discussions on global health architecture, co-chaired by President Macron and Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO). The session is expected to focus on reforms to global health systems and the adoption of a political declaration to strengthen international cooperation.

His second address will open the summit’s high-level segment for heads of state, where he will outline Ghana’s position and commitments on global health security.

Bilateral Talks in Paris

Following the summit, President Mahama will travel to Paris on April 8 for bilateral discussions with President Macron. The talks are expected to focus on strengthening diplomatic, economic, and development cooperation between Ghana and France.

Delegation

The President is accompanied by Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health, along with senior officials from the Presidency.

The visit underscores Ghana’s active role in global health diplomacy and its continued engagement with international partners on key development priorities.

Sachet Water Prices Remain Unchanged as Government Intervenes

Najat Adamu
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Sachet Water Prices Remain Unchanged as Government Intervenes

Source: Mavis Fantevi

The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has announced that the price of sachet water will remain unchanged, following the suspension of a planned price increase by industry players.

In a press release issued on Monday April 6, the Ministry commended the Ghana Plastic Manufacturers Association (GPMA) and the National Association of Sachet and Packaged Water Producers (NASPAWAP) for halting the adjustment, which was scheduled to take effect the same day.

According to the Ministry, the decision reflects a shared commitment to protecting consumers and maintaining stability in the market. It assured the public that sachet water, a widely consumed commodity across the country, will continue to be sold at its current price.

The Ministry further disclosed that it will hold an urgent meeting with leadership of GPMA and NASPAWAP on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, to address challenges confronting the sector.

“The Ministry, hereby, assures the public that the price of sachet water will not increase today. Consumers can continue to purchase sachet water at the current price.” the release stated.

Authorities say they remain committed to working closely with industry stakeholders to resolve issues swiftly and ensure price stability in the market.

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

Ebenezer Madugu
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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

Ebenezer Madugu
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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

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

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.

GCTU Partners with CELLTEL to Accelerate Digital Transformation in Higher Education

Najat Adamu
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GCTU Partners with CELLTEL to Accelerate Digital Transformation in Higher Education

Source: Yaw Preko

Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) has taken a major step toward advancing digital transformation in higher education through a strategic partnership with CELLTEL Network.

The university recently hosted a high-level delegation from CELLTEL for a pivotal engagement aimed at redefining technology-driven education in Ghana. The meeting, chaired by senior university leadership including the Acting Vice-Chancellor, brought together key stakeholders from academia and industry to explore collaboration in innovation, policy, and capacity development.

GCTU Partners with CELLTEL to Accelerate Digital Transformation in Higher Education

Leading the CELLTEL delegation, Chairman Prince Kofi Kludjeson delivered a presentation outlining the evolution of Ghana’s ICT landscape and his role in shaping key policies and institutions. He stressed the need for Ghana and Africa to transition from traditional economic models to a digitally driven knowledge economy.

Drawing on decades of global experience, Dr Kludjeson highlighted education as the foundation for sustainable development. While acknowledging progress in expanding access, he noted persistent gaps in aligning academic training with industry needs, particularly in emerging technologies.

A key focus of the discussions was the concept of “talent-based, technology-enabled education.” CELLTEL outlined plans to equip students with practical digital skills, integrate professional certifications with academic programmes, expand digital infrastructure such as campus-wide internet access, and introduce smart classrooms powered by modern learning technologies.

GCTU Partners with CELLTEL to Accelerate Digital Transformation in Higher Education

The delegation also revealed ongoing initiatives, including significant investments in educational technology, distribution of digital devices to students, and partnerships designed to foster innovation ecosystems across Africa.

Participants emphasised positioning GCTU as a leading hub for digital transformation not only in Ghana but across West Africa. The university was encouraged to spearhead smart campus initiatives, support national digital policies, and produce globally competitive graduates equipped for the evolving job market.

The meeting further highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia, government, and the private sector in tackling youth unemployment and bridging the digital divide. With millions of young people entering the workforce annually, stakeholders agreed that scalable, tech-driven solutions are essential.

As part of the next steps, CELLTEL proposed the formation of a joint working committee to identify priority areas and develop practical implementation strategies tailored to the university’s needs.

The engagement marks a significant milestone in transforming Ghana’s educational ecosystem, reinforcing GCTU’s commitment to innovation and positioning it as a key player in shaping Africa’s digital future.

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

Ebenezer Madugu
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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

Ebenezer Madugu
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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.

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Prophet Nakoa Nazareth
Prophet Nakoa Nazareth
Prophet Nakoa Nazareth

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

Najat Adamu
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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.

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