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OMCP Set for Launch as Government Deploys 6,000+ Laptops Nationwide

Najat Adamu
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OMCP Set for Launch as Government Deploys 6,000+ Laptops Nationwide

Source: Mavis Fantevi

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, says government is set to roll out the first phase of the One Million Coders Program (OMCP) by the end of April or May 1, following what he described as “eight weeks of intense work.”

Addressing a press conference at the Ministry’s conference room on April 10,2026, the Minister expressed confidence in the timeline, stating, “We’re confident that by the end of April or 1st May, this initiative will kick off.”

He revealed that “130 learning centres all over the country” have been established, each to be equipped with “50 laptops,” forming part of an initial distribution of “6,000+ laptops out of the 20,000+.”

According to him, “we’ll be rolling out this first phase in 12 universities,” marking a major step toward expanding digital access and training for young people.

On the application process, he disclosed challenges with fraudulent entries, saying, “we had almost 40,000 fake applications.” To address this, the Ministry is undertaking “integration with the” National Identification Authority (NIA) to improve verification.

He further announced that “sometime next week, we’ll officially reopen the portals,” giving applicants another opportunity under stricter checks.

The OMCP is part of government’s broader efforts to build digital capacity and position Ghana’s youth for opportunities in the global tech space.

NRSA Clarifies ‘Voxy Cars’ Status, Says Vehicles Are Illegal but Not Banned

Najat Adamu
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NRSA Clarifies ‘Voxy Cars’ Status, Says Vehicles Are Illegal but Not Banned

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has clarified its position on the use of “Voxy Cars” in Ghana, stating that while their operations are considered illegal, they have not been officially banned.

Speaking on Ghana Nie on Atinka TV, the Head of Corporate Affairs at the NRSA, Simbiat Wiredu, explained the Authority’s stance.

“We only said their existence [Voxy Cars] in the country is illegal; we have not stated categorically that it is banned,” she said.

Her comments come amid growing public discussion and confusion over the status of such vehicles, with many motorists’ seeking clarity on whether they are permitted on Ghana’s roads.

The NRSA’s clarification suggests that while the vehicles may not meet regulatory requirements for operation, there has been no formal nationwide prohibition issued against them.

Top Ghanaian artistes rally behind Okyeame Kwame for OK@50 concert

Ebenezer Madugu
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Top Ghanaian artistes rally behind Okyeame Kwame for OK@50 concert

Ghanaian rap icon Okyeame Kwame is marking his milestone 50th birthday on April 17 with a grand celebration, culminating in a special live show on April 18 at the +233 Lounge.

Dubbed OK@50, the event is already generating excitement, with a lineup of top-tier artistes confirming their support for the legendary performer.

Leading the list are some of Ghana’s finest A-list acts, including Sista Afia, Adina Thembi, Amerado, KiDi, Kwame Eugene, Abiana, Abochi, Afriyie Wutah, Akwaboah, and Flowking Stone, all set to grace the occasion in honor of the “Rap Doctor.”

Beyond the star-studded lineup, the celebration is also a moment of reflection, as several of the artistes have shared personal stories highlighting Okyeame Kwame’s impact on their journeys.

Kuami Eugene, for instance, spoke about the rapper’s remarkable discipline and attention to detail, revealing that Okyeame Kwame keeps a written record of every song he has ever recorded. According to him, the celebrated artiste once left behind a book filled with his raps during a visit, an indication of his dedication to his craft.

Adina also described Okyeame Kwame as family, noting that he has played a guiding role in her career since her early days in the music industry.

For Amerado, the bond is deeply personal. He recalled that upon arriving in Accra to pursue music, Okyeame Kwame was one of the first people he visited. The rap icon went on to support him with a feature on his song “Kyereme,” a gesture Amerado says helped shape his path.

Sista Afia, on her part, praised Okyeame Kwame as a believer in people, someone who consistently lifts others up and has been instrumental in her own growth.

The OK@50 celebration is not just about music and nostalgia. It is a night of “50 Songs for 50 Years of Love,” and also carries a strong philanthropic focus.

Proceeds from the show will go toward building a pediatric emergency center at the Manhyia Hospital, reinforcing Okyeame Kwame’s long-standing commitment to social impact.

As anticipation builds, the event promises to be a night of music, memories and meaningful giving, celebrating not just a career, but a legacy that continues to inspire generations.

Story by Charles Akrofi

Black Stars Coach to Be Named Soon, Ghana Can Still Win World Cup – Sports Minister Kofi Adams

Najat Adamu
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Black Stars Coach to Be Named Soon, Ghana Can Still Win World Cup – Sports Minister Kofi Adams

Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has assured the public that a new head coach for the Black Stars will be announced imminently.

Speaking on the ongoing search, the Minister indicated that the appointment process is nearing completion. “If by this weekend we don’t announce the coach, then by Monday at the latest we should be able to present our new Black Stars coach,” he stated.

Despite concerns about the current squad, Mr. Adams expressed confidence in the team’s potential, insisting that Ghana still has the quality to compete at the highest level.

“We may not have the best of players that we had in some time past, based on them playing together for some time. But we still have what it takes for us to go very, very far—maybe possibly even win the World Cup,” he added.

His remarks come amid heightened expectations from fans eager to see a new direction for the Ghana national football team as they prepare for upcoming international competitions.

EOCO Declares Council of State Member Wanted Over Alleged Gold Fraud

Najat Adamu
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EOCO Declares Council of State Member Wanted Over Alleged Gold Fraud

The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has declared Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple a fugitive, as investigations intensify into alleged gold fraud involving his company.
In a news release issued on Thursday, EOCO stated that it is currently handling three separate petitions against Dr Kwamigah-Atokple and his firm, SESI-EDEM Company Ltd., all relating to suspected fraudulent gold dealings.

Investigations and Allegations
According to EOCO, the petitions point to a consistent pattern of alleged fraud. The Office noted that the suspect, a current member of the Council of State, has been given multiple opportunities since November 2025 to cooperate with the investigation but has failed to do so.

EOCO further alleged that attempts are being made to obstruct justice through political, traditional, and media channels.

The Office also referenced the suspect’s past association with Nana Appiah Mensah, also known as NAM1, and Menzgold Ltd, both previously linked to high-profile financial controversies in Ghana.

Fugitive Status and Manhunt
EOCO stated that Dr Kwamigah-Atokple is currently on the run and is believed to be hiding within the Volta Region.

The agency’s Surveillance and Asset Recovery Unit has been deployed to locate and apprehend him.
“NO ONE is above the law,” EOCO emphasised, assuring the public that the suspect will be brought to justice.

Public Appeal
The Office is calling on members of the public with information on the suspect’s whereabouts to report to the nearest EOCO office.

EOCO also dismissed what it described as misleading public statements surrounding the case, reiterating that its investigations are being conducted within the confines of the law and its mandate.
The statement follows recent comments attributed to the Volta Regional House of Chiefs regarding the matter.

Qualcomm Selects 10 Startups for 2026 Make in Africa Program

Ebenezer Madugu
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Qualcomm Selects 10 Startups for 2026 Make in Africa Program

Qualcomm Incorporated has announced the selection of 10 African startups for the 2026 edition of its Make in Africa Mentorship Program, aimed at strengthening the continent’s deep-technology ecosystem.

Chosen from more than 1,200 applications across 45 countries, the startups are developing solutions in sectors including agriculture, smart infrastructure, electric mobility and assistive technology. Participants will receive mentorship, engineering support and training in advanced technologies such as Edge AI, IoT and machine learning.

Each startup will also qualify for a $5,000 stipend upon completing the program, while one will receive additional funding from Qualcomm for Good’s Social Impact Fund.

The initiative, part of the Qualcomm Africa Innovation Platform, also offers access to hardware tools from Arduino and intellectual property training through L2Pro Africa.

According to Qualcomm, the program reflects growing innovation and technical sophistication among African startups, with solutions increasingly leveraging emerging technologies such as AI and 5G.

The African Telecommunications Union is partnering the initiative for the fourth consecutive year.

For more information about Qualcomm Make in Africa, please visit: https://www.qualcomm.com/company/locations/africa/qualcomm-make-in-africa

Atinkaonlne.com

Govt Rolls Out Emergency Measures to Cut Fuel Prices, Ease Transport Costs

Najat Adamu
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Govt Rolls Out Emergency Measures to Cut Fuel Prices, Ease Transport Costs

Source: Mavis Fantevi

The Government of Ghana has unveiled a set of urgent interventions aimed at reducing fuel prices and easing the financial burden on citizens, following an emergency Cabinet meeting held on Thursday, April 9,2026, by President John Dramani Mahama, amid mounting economic pressures and instability in global oil markets.

The measures, which focus on fuel pricing, public transport, and government spending, are intended to offer short-term relief while broader economic challenges persist.

Temporary Fuel Price Reduction

As part of the plan, Cabinet has directed the Ministers responsible for Finance and Energy to ensure a reduction in fuel prices in the upcoming pricing window. This will be driven by the temporary suspension of selected taxes and margins within the fuel pricing structure.

The intervention is expected to last for an initial period of four weeks, with authorities indicating that the policy could be reviewed depending on global crude oil trends and developments in the Middle East.

Details on the specific taxes to be waived are anticipated to be announced alongside the next pricing adjustments.

More Buses, Lower Fares

To address rising transport costs, the Minister for Transport has been instructed to fast-track the rollout of 100 newly procured Metro Mass Transit buses. The buses will be deployed along busy routes to maximize impact and improve accessibility for commuters.

Government says the buses will operate at fares lower than those charged by private transport operators, offering a more affordable option for the commuting public.

Crackdown on Government Spending

In a parallel move to demonstrate fiscal discipline, Cabinet has reinforced an existing directive requiring all Ministers and senior government officials to forgo fuel allocations and related allowances.

The decision is aimed at cutting down public expenditure and ensuring that government officials also bear part of the economic strain.

A government spokesperson noted that the interventions are designed to provide immediate relief to Ghanaians grappling with the rising cost of living.

The announcement comes at a time when public frustration over high fuel prices and transport fares continues to grow, with many hoping the measures will bring tangible relief in the coming weeks.

System risks in ghana’s petroleum sector: billions at stake, oversight under question

Najat Adamu
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System risks in ghana’s petroleum sector: billions at stake, oversight under question

Source: Maxwell Mensah, TMG Research and Investigative Desk

Ghana’s petroleum sector is facing mounting systemic risks that could have long-term consequences for revenue stability, energy security, and public accountability.

An analysis by the TMG Research and Investigative Desk, based on findings from the 2025 Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC) report, reveals a troubling pattern, rising debts, unaccounted funds, and underperforming national investments.

  1. GOVERNMENT OWES $50 MILLION TO TULLOW

One of the most immediate financial risks is government’s outstanding debt of approximately $50 million to Tullow Ghana, tied specifically to development costs in the TEN oil field.

This debt, coupled with broader arrears in gas payments, raises concerns about:

  • Ghana’s credibility with international oil partners
  • Future investment flows into the upstream petroleum sector
  • The operational sustainability of existing oil fields

With TEN already underperforming and experiencing no drilling activity in 2025, the debt burden further complicates efforts to revive production.

  1. $561 MILLION UNACCOUNTED FOR BY GNPC SUBSIDIARY

Even more alarming is the failure of GNPC’s subsidiary, Explorco, to account for $561.6 million in petroleum revenue between 2022 and 2024.

Despite repeated calls for reconciliation and transparency, the funds have not been properly accounted for or deposited into the Petroleum Holding Fund.

This raises critical accountability questions:

  • Where exactly is the money?
  • Why has enforcement been weak?
  • What systems exist to prevent revenue leakages at this scale?

For a country reliant on oil revenue to fund development, such lapses undermine public trust and fiscal discipline.

  1. $620 MILLION GAS SECTOR DEBT — A HIDDEN ENERGY THREAT

Ghana’s gas sector is also under strain.

The Ghana National Gas Limited Company (GNGLC) currently owes over $620 million to GNPC, a liability that experts warn could destabilize the entire energy value chain.

This debt has wider implications:

  • It weakens the financial position of state energy institutions
  • It threatens consistent gas supply for power generation
  • It increases the risk of reverting to expensive fuel imports

In simple terms, this is not just a balance sheet issue, it is a national energy security risk.

  1. OIL FUNDS UNDERPERFORMING — JUST 1% RETURNS

Ghana’s sovereign petroleum funds, designed to safeguard wealth for the future, are delivering minimal returns.

Since inception, the funds have generated approximately 1% annual returns, far below global benchmarks for sovereign wealth funds.

This raises strategic concerns:

  • Are investment decisions too conservative or poorly structured?
  • Is Ghana maximizing value from its petroleum savings?
  • What reforms are needed to improve fund performance?

At a time when oil revenues are declining, the efficiency of these funds becomes even more critical.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: A MANAGEMENT PROBLEM

Individually, each of these issues is concerning. But collectively, they point to a deeper structural challenge — inefficiencies in governance and oversight of petroleum resources.

  • Debts are rising
  • Revenues are leaking
  • Investments are underperforming

And ultimately, the burden falls on national development.

CONCLUSION

Ghana’s petroleum sector is no longer just about production levels or global oil prices.

The real challenge lies in how effectively the country manages its petroleum wealth.

Without stronger accountability, improved financial discipline, and strategic reforms, these systemic risks could erode the very benefits oil was meant to deliver.

Politics, High Costs Crushing Ghanaian Businesses – Weija Gbawe MP Sounds Alarm

Ebenezer Madugu
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Politics, High Costs Crushing Ghanaian Businesses – Weija Gbawe MP Sounds Alarm

Ghana’s private sector is under siege, from political interference to rising costs and policy missteps, that is according to the Minority in Parliament, which is warning that the country risks losing its indigenous business base if urgent reforms are not considered.

Speaking at the Kwahu Business Forum 2026, Second Deputy Minority Whip, Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, passionately stressed the current condition of the business community in Ghana stating that “the system is not just challenging businesses, it is working against them, we cannot preach entrepreneurship while the system makes capital structurally inaccessible,” he declared.

At the center of the Minority’s concern is what they described as the growing politicization of business in Ghana.

According to the caucus, businesses are increasingly being judged based on perceived political alignment, a situation they say is distorting competition and discouraging innovation.

“The success of a business should never depend on which political regime is in power,” Hon. Shaib stressed.

Beyond politics, the Minority painted a grim picture of a business environment weighed down by structural challenges.

From limited access to financing to high operational costs, many businesses are being squeezed from all sides.

•          60–80% of small businesses fail within five years

•          High lending rates and strict collateral requirements block access to credit

•          Energy costs are forcing manufacturers to cut production

“The manufacturer is being squeezed from both ends, costs that government will not reduce, and import competition it cannot match.”

Adding to the pressure is what businesses describe as a stacked tax regime, where multiple levies including VAT, NHIL, and GETFund are applied simultaneously on the same transactions.

The Minority also accused government of sidelining industry players in decision-making, describing a pattern where policies are introduced without meaningful consultation.

“Policy is conceived, drafted and announced, and industry is invited afterwards and told that constitutes consultation.”

This, they argue, has led to poorly designed policies, such as the controversial AI-driven customs assessment system at the ports leaving businesses with inflated charges and little room to appeal.

Despite being in opposition, the caucus has outlined a series of measures aimed at reversing the trend, including:

•          Mandatory stakeholder consultation before major policies

•          Review of taxes and utility tariffs

•          Reforms to improve SME access to financing

•          Greater parliamentary oversight of business-related systems

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com| Prince Kwame Kudogah

Ashanti Regional Minister Introduces Incentive to Curb Indiscriminate Dumping

Najat Adamu
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0
Ashanti Regional Minister Introduces Incentive to Curb Indiscriminate Dumping

Source: Ebenezer De-Gaulle

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, has announced a new policy aimed at addressing persistent sanitation challenges in the region by rewarding citizens who report acts of indiscriminate waste disposal.

Under the directive, 50 per cent of fines collected from offenders will be distributed to individuals who provide credible information leading to their arrest. The initiative is designed to encourage public participation and foster a sense of shared responsibility in maintaining cleanliness.

Dr. Amoakohene said the measure is expected to serve as a deterrent while motivating residents to remain vigilant and actively support sanitation efforts.

However, he emphasized that the policy alone may not be sufficient to resolve the region’s sanitation problems, noting that a broader, coordinated approach involving citizens, local authorities, and enforcement agencies is required.

The minister highlighted the critical role of the City Metro Guards, stressing the need to clearly define and strengthen their responsibilities in enforcing sanitation by-laws. According to him, the guards are expected to monitor public spaces, prevent illegal dumping, apprehend offenders, and educate the public on proper waste disposal practices.

He added that with adequate training, equipment, and institutional support, Metro Guards can significantly improve sanitation, particularly in high-traffic areas such as the Central Business District.

Dr. Amoakohene expressed optimism that combining citizen reporting with a proactive enforcement system will enhance compliance and help reduce indiscriminate dumping across the region.

He noted that the success of the initiative will depend on sustained commitment, effective enforcement, and cooperation among all stakeholders.

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