Mahama to host Zimbabwe’s Mnangagwa for three-day state visit

Najat Adamu
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Mahama to host Zimbabwe’s Mnangagwa for three-day state visit

Source: Ebenezer De-Gaulle

President John Dramani Mahama is set to host Zimbabwean leader Emmerson Mnangagwa for a three-day state visit to Ghana beginning April 1, 2026, as both nations seek to deepen bilateral ties across key sectors.

According to a statement from the Presidency Communications Office on Tuesday March 31, President Emerson Mnangagwa will arrive at the Kotoka International Airport at 3:00 PM, where he will be received with full military honours, including a guard of honour and a 21-gun salute.

A state banquet will be hosted later in the evening by President Mahama in honour of his guest, highlighting the longstanding diplomatic relations between Ghana and Zimbabwe.

The highlight of the visit will be bilateral talks at the Peduase Lodge, preceded by a private meeting between the two leaders.

Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening cooperation in trade, tourism, health, agriculture, sanitation, anti-corruption efforts and tackling unemployment.

The visit will also see the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding aimed at advancing mutual interests between the two countries.

As part of his itinerary, President Mnangagwa will tour the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre and the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant to receive briefings on Ghana’s progress in healthcare delivery and waste management technologies.

He will also pay homage at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, where he is expected to lay a wreath at the mausoleum of Ghana’s founding president.

President Mnangagwa will depart Ghana on April 3 following a farewell ceremony at the Jubilee Lounge.

Mahama Orders Review of Fourth Estate Report on ‘Big Push’ Contracts

Najat Adamu
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Mahama Orders Review of Fourth Estate Report on ‘Big Push’ Contracts

President John Dramani Mahama has instructed his office to acquire the complete report from the investigative source. The Fourth Estate after its exposé on contracts associated with procurement procedures under the government’s major infrastructure initiative, Big Push.

In response to the media outlet’s serialised reports, which it portrayed as an investigation into what it called a “Ministry of Sole-Sourcing,” the President decided during a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Jubilee House on Monday, March 30.

While noting that only portions of the investigation had been publicly circulated, the President emphasised the need for a thorough and objective assessment.

“Although we have seen snippets of the investigation from the media, I have instructed my office to obtain the full detailed report from the Fourth Estate and to conduct a study of the various allegations presented in the report,” he stated.

President Mahama reiterated the importance of transparency and competitive procurement practices in public projects.

“We would all agree that open, transparent tenders are always preferable for achieving competitive pricing and value for money,” he added.

The move signals the government’s intention to thoroughly examine the allegations, amid growing public interest in accountability and procurement processes related to major national infrastructure projects.

GFA Parts Ways with Black Stars Coach Otto Addo Ahead of World Cup

Najat Adamu
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GFA Parts Ways with Black Stars Coach Otto Addo Ahead of World Cup

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially relieved Otto Addo of his duties as head coach of the Black Stars, just three months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The decision, announced in a statement on March 31, 2026, follows Ghana’s 2-1 defeat to Germany at the MHP Arena Stuttgart—a result that marked the team’s fourth consecutive loss and intensified concerns over its recent performance.

In a statement shared on its official platforms, the GFA confirmed the immediate termination of the coach’s appointment.

“The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has parted ways with the Head Coach of the senior men’s national team (Black Stars), Otto Addo, effective immediately,” the statement read.

The Association expressed appreciation for his service to the national team.

“The Association wishes to thank Otto Addo sincerely for his contribution to the team and wishes him the best of luck in his future endeavours,” it added.

The GFA also indicated that a new technical direction for the Black Stars will be announced in due course.

“The Ghana Football Association will communicate the new technical direction of the Black Stars in due course.”

The decision has sparked mixed reactions among fans. While some supported the move as necessary, others questioned the timing, especially with the World Cup approaching.

One supporter defended the coach, arguing that recent matches were intended for tactical experimentation rather than results.

“Otto Addo is not going anywhere! Ghanaians should grow up—these are friendly matches. The goal is not to win but to try different strategies,” the fan stated.

Others, however, praised the GFA’s action, describing it as bold, while some expressed concern over the timing of the announcement.

The development marks a significant shift for the Black Stars as preparations continue for the upcoming World Cup.

Closing the Skills Gap Amid Rising Unemployment in Ghana: The Chance For Children Way

Ebenezer Madugu
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Closing the Skills Gap Amid Rising Unemployment in Ghana: The Chance For Children Way

Unemployment in Ghana continues to rise, leaving many young people searching for jobs that seem out of reach.

Yet, experts say the problem is not just a lack of jobs – but a gap between what employers need and what job seekers offer.

Speaking to Atinka TV’s Ebenezer Madugu at the launch of a Maintenance Course by Chance for Children, industry leaders stressed the need for practical skills and the right attitude.

The Head of HR at HPW Fresh and Dry, Helena Gyebiwaa Lamptey, explained that classroom knowledge alone is not enough. “Attitude and skills are very important,” she said. According to her, many companies are ready to hire, but struggle to find workers who are disciplined, reliable, and skilled. She praised the program for helping young people become job-ready.

Lord Holali Bobbie, Head of Education at Chance for Children, revealed that youth unemployment stands at about 22 percent. Many of those affected are street-connected youth, with a large number lacking access to decent jobs. To address this, the organization offers free training in carpentry, plumbing, and other technical fields.

He added that the program also teaches important work habits such as punctuality and responsibility.

“Young people want jobs, but we must ask if they are ready for work,” – he said.

Nana Osei Bafi, Director of Programs and Operations, noted that about 4,500 youth were trained in 2025, with a target of over 5,000 in 2026.

The initiative shows that bridging the gap between skills and opportunity could be key to reducing unemployment in Ghana.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Dr. Bawumia Expresses Sympathy After Accra Newtown Building Collapse

Ebenezer Madugu
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Dr. Bawumia Expresses Sympathy After Accra Newtown Building Collapse

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP 2028 Flagbearer, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic building collapse that occurred this afternoon in Accra Newtown. The building, reportedly a place of Christian worship, left several people trapped and others injured.

In a post on his social media accounts, Dr. Bawumia wrote, “I have received with sadness news of the tragic building collapse in Accra Newtown this afternoon. May the lives lost painfully rest in peace, and my deepest sympathy goes to the families. I pray that all trapped are brought out safely, and the injured recover swiftly. I also commend the rescue teams for their efforts to save lives.”

Rescue teams and emergency personnel rushed to the scene immediately and continue to work tirelessly to evacuate those trapped under the debris.

Authorities have appealed to the public to stay clear of the area to allow rescue operations to proceed unhindered.

The cause of the collapse has not yet been officially confirmed, with investigations expected to begin soon.

IET-GH calls for thorough probe into Accra New Town building collapse

Ebenezer Madugu
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IET-GH calls for thorough probe into Accra New Town building collapse

The Institution of Engineering and Technology Ghana (IET-GH) has expressed deep concern over the collapse of a four-storey building under construction in the Ayawaso Central Municipality, calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.


In a statement issued on March 30, the President of the Institution, Engr. Wonder S. Davor, noted that preliminary engineering assessments point to several potential factors that may have contributed to the structural failure.


The statement highlighted that such collapses are often linked to poor structural design, substandard construction practices, the use of inferior materials, and weaknesses in foundational support systems. Particular concern was raised about the integrity of load-bearing elements, especially columns at the ground level, which are critical to the stability of multi-storey buildings.


However, IET-GH emphasised that these are preliminary observations, stressing that the exact cause can only be determined through a detailed and independent technical investigation.


“The exact cause of the collapse can only be established through a comprehensive and independent technical investigation… led by Civil or Structural Engineers,” the statement noted.


The Institution also issued recommendations for key stakeholders in the construction sector. Contractors have been urged to strictly adhere to approved building plans, ensure high-quality materials, and avoid unsafe shortcuts driven by profit motives.

Engineers and consultants were advised to maintain professional diligence, supervise construction properly, and uphold ethical standards to protect public safety.

Accra New Town Collapse: NALAG President Calls for Review of Abandoned Public Projects

Ebenezer Madugu
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Accra New Town Collapse: NALAG President Calls for Review of Abandoned Public Projects

The President of the National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana, Alfred Asiedu Adjei, has called on authorities to review the status of abandoned public projects and improve inspection systems following a deadly building collapse.

The incident happened at Accra New Town, where an abandoned structure gave way, reportedly killing some people and leaving others seriously injured.

In a Facebook post, Mr. Adjei said the tragedy highlights the dangers of neglected buildings in communities. He explained that the structure, believed to have been started around 2012 as a public project, had been left incomplete and open for years. It was reportedly used by different groups, raising safety concerns.

He questioned whether authorities were aware of the risks posed by the building and, if so, why no action was taken to secure, complete, or demolish it. If they were not aware, he said it raises serious concerns about monitoring and oversight.

Mr. Adjei urged key institutions, including the Ayawaso Central Municipal Assembly and the Ministry of Works and Housing, to explain the condition of abandoned projects and outline steps to prevent similar incidents.

He stressed the need for proactive governance, regular inspections, and strict enforcement of safety rules to protect lives.

He also expressed sympathy to the victims and their families, calling for urgent action to ensure such tragedies do not happen again.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

GES Directs Pupils to Stay Away from Accra Newtown School After Building Collapse

Najat Adamu
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0
GES Directs Pupils to Stay Away from Accra Newtown School After Building Collapse

Following the collapse of an adjacent building that resulted in three fatalities and twenty injuries, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued an order for pupils to avoid the Accra Newtown Experimental D/A School.

The directive follows a security briefing at the school, as authorities assess the safety of the structures within the premises.

Director-General of GES, Ernest Kofi Davis, indicated that an emergency meeting will be convened to determine the next course of action.

He stressed that students should not return to the school until a comprehensive safety evaluation has been completed.

“We are going to work with the regional and national teams, including the estate department, to ensure that the remaining structures are safe for use. If they are not, we will advise students to avoid those areas,” he told Citi FM.

The incident has raised concerns about structural safety in school environments, with authorities expected to take further steps to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Empowering Market Women Through “Dwadifoɔ Nsano”

Najat Adamu
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0
Empowering Market Women Through “Dwadifoɔ Nsano”

Source: Edward Dawson

The launch of “Dwadifoɔ Nsano” marks more than just the introduction of a new cooking show—it represents a powerful opportunity to uplift and empower market women across Ghana.

As the backbone of the country’s food distribution system, market women play a critical role in ensuring that fresh and essential ingredients reach households daily. By focusing on traditional Ghanaian meals and indigenous ingredients, “Dwadifoɔ Nsano” is set to significantly increase demand for the very products these women sell.

One of the most immediate benefits of the show will be the boost in patronage. As viewers are inspired to prepare local dishes featured on the program, they will naturally turn to local markets to source fresh produce, spices, and staples. This surge in demand has the potential to increase daily sales and improve the overall livelihoods of market women.

Beyond economic gains, the show also provides visibility and recognition. For years, market women have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, often without acknowledgment. “Dwadifoɔ Nsano” brings their contribution to the forefront, highlighting their importance in preserving Ghana’s food culture and sustaining communities.

The program also promotes the use of indigenous ingredients, helping to shift attention away from imported goods and back to locally sourced products. This not only strengthens the local economy but also reinforces the cultural identity tied to Ghanaian cuisine—an identity that market women help maintain.

In addition, the increased interest in local cooking could open doors for business growth opportunities. Market women may benefit from bulk purchases, partnerships with food vendors, and even opportunities to expand their businesses as demand rises.

Importantly, “Dwadifoɔ Nsano” also serves as an inspiration for the younger generation. By showcasing the value and impact of local markets, it encourages young people to view trading as a viable and respectable profession.

In essence, “Dwadifoɔ Nsano” is more than entertainment—it is a platform for empowerment. Through its celebration of Ghanaian food and culture, the show stands to transform the lives of market women, giving them not only increased income but also the recognition and respect they truly deserve.

Tobinco Wins Top Honours at West Africa Healthcare Excellence Awards

Ebenezer Madugu
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0
Tobinco Wins Top Honours at West Africa Healthcare Excellence Awards

The Executive Chairman of the Tobinco Group of Companies, Elder Samuel Nana Amo Tobbin, has been named as Outstanding Healthcare CEO of the Year at the 9th Ghana–West Africa Healthcare Excellence Awards.

Tobinco Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TPL) was also won Outstanding Pharmaceutical Company of the Year.

The double award highlights Tobinco’s growing impact in both Ghana and across West Africa.

Ghana–West Africa Healthcare Excellence Awards.

The recognition serves as motivation for the company to continue improving healthcare delivery and setting an example for others in the industry.

Tobinco Pharmaceutical Company Limited has in recent years expanded its operations, aiming to provide more comprehensive healthcare solutions.

Speaking after the event, Managing Director Christopher Mensah expressed pride in the achievement. He said the awards reflect the company’s progress beyond just pharmaceuticals into a broader healthcare space.

“We cherish this award so much because it covers our work not only in Ghana but across West Africa,” he said. “Winning Outstanding Pharmaceutical Company of the Year and having our CEO honoured shows how far we have come.”

The latest awards are seen as a major milestone in its journey to become a leading healthcare provider in the region.

Ghana–West Africa Healthcare Excellence Awards.

The Ghana–West Africa Healthcare Excellence Awards celebrate individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the healthcare sector. Tobinco’s recognition underscores its role in shaping the future of healthcare in West Africa.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

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