UCS Facility Management, a wing of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), has embarked on its maiden community volunteer clean-up exercise in the East Legon enclave in Accra.
The exercise, which forms part of the ” Adopt a Street” campaign by Zoomlion Ghana Limited, another subsidiary of JGC, aims to promote a clean environment and healthy living.
Speaking to the media, the Managing Director for UCS Facility Management, Yaa Dansua Ampofo, noted that the exercise was part of a bigger initiative to offer volunteerism to the communities in which they operate.
“As a corporate entity, our responsibility goes beyond the balance sheets and the boardroom but also contributing to a cleaner, greener environment,” she said.
The clean-up exercise involved weeding, sweeping, and painting of the median of American House-Bawaledhie Street and the intersection of the traffic light.
She encouraged other organisations to embrace the “Adopt a Street” campaign for the cleanliness of the country, noting that such activities are a medium to serve the communities and humanity.
The exercise, which started at 7 a.m., on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, received great applause from the areas that were cleaned.
Residents expressed satisfaction and urged other corporate bodies to emulate this gesture of UCS Facility Management.
A resident, Nicholas, emphasised that environmental cleanliness is everyone’s responsibility and encouraged the public to take advantage of the Zoomlion “Adopt a Street” strategy to accelerate the clean environment that Ghanaians are hoping for.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Government of Ghana have reached a staff-level agreement on the fourth review of Ghana’s 36-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme. The agreement, once approved by the IMF Executive Board, will unlock the release of US$370 million in funding support to Ghana.
This brings the total disbursement under the program to approximately US$2.36 billion since its approval in May 2023.
The agreement follows a two-week mission by an IMF team led by Stéphane Roudet, Mission Chief for Ghana, who met with key government officials and stakeholders between April 2 and April 15, 2025, in Accra.
According to a statement issued at the end of the mission, Ghana experienced stronger-than-expected economic growth in 2024, driven by robust activity in the mining and construction sectors. The country also recorded a significant improvement in its external sector, supported by increased exports — particularly gold — and higher remittance inflows, leading to strong accumulation of international reserves.
However, program performance deteriorated sharply towards the end of 2024. Fiscal data indicated slippages in the run-up to the general elections, including a large build-up of government payables. Inflation also rose above the program’s target, and delays were recorded in implementing key reforms in fiscal management, the financial sector, and energy policy.
To correct these slippages, the new administration has introduced bold measures, including the passage of a strong 2025 budget targeting a primary surplus of 1.5% of GDP. A comprehensive audit of accumulated payables is underway, and public financial management reforms have been launched to tighten spending and improve fiscal discipline.
The IMF noted that the Bank of Ghana has increased its policy rate and is reviewing its liquidity operations to curb inflation, which is expected to decline under tighter monetary and fiscal policies.
Engagements also focused on strengthening social protection programs to support the most vulnerable Ghanaians amid economic adjustments. The IMF team acknowledged Ghana’s commitment to enhancing governance, transparency, and reforming the management of state-owned enterprises, particularly in the cocoa, gold, and energy sectors.
On energy, the resumption of quarterly electricity tariff adjustments and structural reforms is expected to reduce sector shortfalls and prevent the accumulation of new arrears.
Ghana is also progressing with its public debt restructuring program. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the G20 Common Framework has been signed by all members of Ghana’s Official Creditor Committee. The next step is the conclusion of bilateral agreements and ongoing discussions with commercial creditors to secure a comprehensive and sustainable debt treatment.
The IMF team expressed gratitude to Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Maxwell Opoku-Afari, and other stakeholders for their cooperation and constructive engagement during the mission.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com| IMF Communications Department
The Geater Accra Regional Director of Operations of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kofi Antwi, popularly known as Governor, has called on the current administration to maintain the name “Planting for Food and Jobs” rather than rebranding it as “Feed Ghana.”
Speaking on Atinka TV’s political and development show Ghana Nie, hosted by Ama Gyenfa Ofosu-Darkwa, Governor argued that the essence of the program remains unchanged and that the rebranding is an attempt to downplay the achievements of the previous government.
According to him, from 2017 to 2024, the government invested about 2 billion cedis in the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, which played a pivotal role in revitalizing Ghana’s agriculture sector and creating thousands of jobs.
“They’ve only changed the name. The project is still the same. In fact, they’ve allocated about 1.5 billion for the same initiative in the 2025 budget,” – he stated.
Governor urged the current administration to credit former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for launching and successfully implementing the initiative. He insisted that the change in name does nothing to alter the structure of the program or its objectives.
Touching on the now-resurrected Feed Ghana program, he revealed that the concept was originally developed by himself and the current NPP Communications Director, Richard Ahiagba, before it was shelved due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative, he explained, was aimed at promoting Ghanaian cuisine by opening restaurants that offered local meals at affordable prices, as low as 5 cedis per plate.
“Feed Ghana was to create a sustainable market for farmers at the consumption end. The objective was to boost demand for local farm produce through restaurant chains,” – he added.
Mr. Antwi credited the previous government for laying strong foundations that made farming attractive to many Ghanaians, including celebrities like John Dumelo, who ventured into agriculture.
He concluded that instead of erasing the legacy of the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, the current government should retain the name and allow the Feed Ghana project to exist as a separate component aimed at addressing local food consumption.
“Let Planting for Food and Jobs remain. Let Feed Ghana focus on food services. That’s how we create a full cycle—from farm to table.”
Nana Akonnor Bekai Ababio V displaying cheers in his palanquin
Akwamufie came alive with pomp, pageantry, and spiritual symbolism on April 10, 2025, as Nana Akonnor Bekai Ababio V, Known in his private life as Aaron Kwabena Packeys, A seasoned Chartered Accountant and a Consummate Business Leader, was officially coronated as Osomanyawa — the Chief Administrator and second-in-command of Akwamu State — bringing an end to a 13-year vacancy of one of the kingdom’s most powerful traditional positions.
The ceremony, held at the Bogyawe Palace in the Eastern Region’s Asuogyaman District, was rich in cultural heritage. Nana Bekai, who also serves as Ayokohene, Mankrado of Akwamuman, and Guantoahene of Akwamu, swore the traditional oath of allegiance to His Royal Majesty Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III, promising to uphold the values, unity, and transformation agenda of the Akwamu Traditional Area.
Nana Akonnor Bekai Ababio V exchanging pleasantries with Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III
In a rare and historic moment, both the Akwamuhene and Nana Bekai were adorned in the sacred 400-year-old “Mahony” cloth — a lion skin and cowrie-laden regalia historically used by Akwamu royalty as spiritual protection in times of war. Oral tradition holds that the Mahony cloth can only be destroyed by a sacred stone, and it is exclusively reserved for the Akwamuhene and Osomanyawa.
As part of the rituals, the revered “Afua” sword — symbol of the Omanhene’s authority — was laid down and ceremonially stepped on three times by the Akwamuhene before it was handed to Nana Bekai. This act signified the formal transfer of power and authority, empowering him to lead the divisional chiefs and represent the Akwamuhene when necessary.
Nana Akonnor Bekai Ababio V matching with his entourage to the rich rhythm of the Atumpan and Fontomfrom
Traditional drums such as Atumpan and Fontomfrom echoed through the palace as Nana Bekai led the Akwamuhene to the dance floor, raising the Fontomfrom high — a symbolic gesture of loyalty, respect, and service.
Observers described the moment as “deeply symbolic,” emphasizing that “this is not just tradition, it is a spiritual expression of loyalty, honesty, obedience, and reverence.”
Nana Bekai’s return, described as coming “home from a 13-year journey to the ancestors,” has reignited hope and enthusiasm among the Akwamu people. He is expected to work closely with Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III, who has reigned since 2011, to usher in a new era under the “Akwamu Arising” vision — focused on unity, heritage preservation, and development.
The Bogyawe Palace, not only the official seat of the Akwamuhene but also a cultural attraction, continues to stand as a proud symbol of Akwamu heritage and resilience.
Broadcast and online journalist, Asare-Bediako Addo has stated that the growing indiscipline on social media is a clear reflection of the state of Ghanaian society.
Speaking on Atinka TV’s social issues program Efie Asetena, hosted by Odehyie Naana, Asare-Bediako argued that “a bad society will never produce good people,” and the behaviors displayed online mirror the moral challenges within homes and communities.
He pointed to poor parenting as a major contributing factor, stressing that many young people today lack proper guidance—something that is evident in their online conduct.
According to him, the youth dominate social media spaces, and their actions there are often shaped by their upbringing.
“Social media is a mixed blessing,” he said. “It has the power to make or unmake. While it has helped many individuals and businesses grow, its misuse also highlights deeper issues in society.”
He called for responsible use of digital platforms and urged parents, educators, and community leaders to instill better values in children to prepare them for the digital world.
Asare-Bediako’s remarks serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to address the root causes of social media misconduct—starting with the home.
He believes that by promoting positive values offline, society can begin to see more responsible behavior online.
His message: if we want a better social media space, we must first build a better society.
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has called on the government to immediately increase the producer price of cocoa to safeguard the industry and protect the livelihoods of Ghanaian farmers.
Addressing the media in Kumasi, Ranking Member on Agriculture and MP for Offinso South, Hon. Dr. Isaac Yaw Opoku, expressed disappointment over recent conflicting statements from COCOBOD regarding cocoa price adjustments for the 2025/2026 season.
According to him, a letter dated April 8, 2025, and signed by Dr. James Kofi Kutsoati, Acting Deputy Chief Executive (Operations) of COCOBOD, cited two reasons why the producer price could not be increased. However, a follow-up release from COCOBOD’s Public Affairs Department the next day gave an entirely different explanation.
“This inconsistency only confirms one thing—that the NDC government and COCOBOD have no intention of increasing the cocoa producer price for the upcoming season,” Dr. Opoku said.
He warned that Ghana’s cocoa industry is at risk, especially following Côte d’Ivoire’s recent 22.24% increase in cocoa prices—from 1,800 CFA to 2,200 CFA per kilogram. The price disparity, he noted, will likely encourage smuggling across the borders, further hurting Ghana’s economy.
“The time for excuses and blame is over. What is needed now is urgent and decisive action to match or exceed the cocoa prices offered in Côte d’Ivoire. This is not just an economic concern—it is a matter of national security and agricultural survival,” Dr. Opoku stated.
The Minority Caucus has therefore urged the government to act swiftly to address the issue, warning that failure to respond adequately will result in irreversible damage to the cocoa sector and betrayal of the nation’s hardworking farmers.
Ahafo Regional Minister, Hon. Charity Gardiner, has assured residents and traditional leaders that the government will soon complete the Tepa–Goaso main road and other major road projects in the region.
She made the announcement after touring ongoing road construction works in the region with the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza.
Speaking to journalists during the inspection, Hon. Gardiner reiterated the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure across Ahafo, emphasizing that the Tepa–Goaso route remains a top priority.
The visit was part of efforts to assess the progress of key projects aimed at boosting connectivity and economic activity in the region.
Tensions are rising within the Tema Metropolitan Assembly as some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), identified as non-indigenes, staged a protest on Monday evening over alleged attempts to block the appointment of a non-indigene as the next Mayor of Tema.
Clad in red armbands and party paraphernalia, the demonstrators gathered at the forecourt of the Assembly to voice their anger over what they described as “discriminatory and divisive” efforts by some local traditional leaders and opinion leaders to oppose the rumored appointment of Ebi Bright, the NDC’s 2024 parliamentary candidate for Tema Central, and Kempes Ofosuware, the current Tema East Constituency Chairman.
Leading the protest was Ibrahim M.A. Mandeya, Chairman of the Site 20 Down Branch of the NDC, who described the resistance against the possible appointments of Ebi Bright or Kempes Ofosuware as unfair and an affront to the values of inclusion and unity within the party.
> “We have supported this party for years and contributed to its growth in Tema. It is unacceptable for anyone to say non-indigenes cannot lead. Leadership should be based on competence, not ethnicity,” Mr. Mandeya said.
Joining him was Fuseini Salisu, Chairman of the NDC Paradise Branch, who argued that the city had seen little progress under the leadership of successive indigenous mayors.
> “Indigenous leadership has not transformed Tema. It’s time a competent non-indigene is given the chance to serve. We are all Ghanaians,” he stated.
The protest comes on the heels of a press conference held by a group of Tema indigenes who warned of “dire consequences” if President John Mahama appoints Ebi Bright or any non-indigene to the mayoral position.
This latest protest highlights growing internal divisions within the NDC in the Tema East constituency. The party has been grappling with disputes in recent weeks, including controversies surrounding the formation of a new Landing Beach Premix Committee.
As the debate over who becomes the next Mayor of Tema intensifies, political observers say the party’s national leadership may need to step in to avert further fractures ahead of the 2028 general elections.
MTN Ghana has launched a major initiative dubbed “MTN SME Accelerate” to drive the growth and sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country.
The initiative, themed “Business Done Smarter, Faster, and Better,” marks a strategic shift from a one-month campaign to a year-long program focused on empowering SMEs with digital tools, resources, and access to market opportunities.
Speaking at the launch, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s economic development through entrepreneurship.
He added that, MTN is committed to equipping them with the right tools and resources to thrive in today’s digital economy.
The Chief Enterprise Business Officer of MTN Ghana, Angela Mensah-Poku, highlighted challenges facing SMEs such as limited digitization, inadequate access to credit, and capacity constraints.
She noted that the year-long format is intended to provide more impactful and sustained engagement.
A key highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the “MTN Adwumapa Bundle”, a specialized package tailored for women-led SMEs. The bundle offers enhanced connectivity and access to platforms such as SME fairs and pop-up shops to promote visibility and market access.
CEO of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Ms. Margaret Ansei, expressed her agency’s readiness to collaborate with MTN in deepening the role of technology in SME operations.
The SME Accelerate initiative will include nationwide capacity-building sessions, expanded market activations, and leadership training—particularly targeting women in business. It will climax in December with the SME GrowAfrica Awards (SMEGA Awards), which will recognize outstanding SMEs based on performance and innovation.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Bulgarian Consul to Ghana, H.E. Nico van Staalduinen; Ambassador of Malta to Ghana, H.E. Jean Claude Galea Mallia; Her Royal Majesty Nana Esi Ninsin VIII, Queen Mother of Ekumfi; and Dr. Joe Tackie, Board Chair of SME GrowAfrica and AfCFTA.
With SME Accelerate, MTN Ghana is positioning itself as a key enabler of enterprise development in Ghana, helping local businesses build resilience and scale for long-term success.
There was a time — not too long ago — when Ghana’s urban centers were drowning in their own waste. Open drains choked with filth, rivers reeked of untreated effluent, and every heavy rain came with the threat of cholera.
Children carried refuse to unmanaged dumpsites, barefoot and unaware of the danger. Sanitation workers were mocked, underpaid, and invisible in the eyes of society. But change did come. And that change had a name: Zoomlion Ghana limited
The situation before (Landfill site)
With little fanfare but enormous resolve, Jospong Group with its subsidiary Zoomlion, took on the challenge that others wouldn’t. Over the past two decades, it has single-handedly led the transformation of Ghana’s sanitation landscape. From Accra to Tamale, Takoradi to Kumasi, 36 waste treatment plants now stand as quiet testaments to what focused investment and unwavering commitment can achieve.
These include faecal sludge treatment plants, material recovery facilities, composting centers, and modern landfill sites — infrastructure that didn’t exist at this scale or sophistication before Jospong entered the scene.
This wasn’t just about infrastructure.
It was about restoring dignity to sanitation work, previously seen as a last resort. Through innovations like tricycles for last-mile collection, thousands of young people across the country have been empowered to become sanitation entrepreneurs.
What was once dirty work is now a source of pride, income, and identity. Over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs have been created across the sanitation value chain — not just sweepers and drivers, but engineers, lab technicians, plant operators, and logistics professionals. Yet, despite this unparalleled impact, Jospong finds itself at the center of public frustration.
After: Engineered Landfill site (Kpone)
To some Ghanaians, in recent times Zoomlion is seen as the face of poor waste collection — but few realize that the company is owed over GHS 1.6 billion by the government, a debt that has accumulated over two years. This enormous unpaid bill has crippled operations, stalled logistics, and delayed wages for thousands of sanitation workers. Trucks sit idle, fuel runs out, and services suffer — not from incompetence, but from insolvency caused by unpaid dues.
Meanwhile, Jospong has taken enormous risks by continuing to invest in infrastructure through loans — a bold move in a high-risk economic environment where interest rates soar and government payments delay. The Group has been forced to stretch itself thin, balancing its vision for a cleaner Ghana with the realities of financial pressure and public misunderstanding.
Is it fair, then, to label the company a villain?
This is the organization that turned sanitation into a national employment engine, that gave Ghana its first-ever structured waste treatment ecosystem, that helped stem cholera outbreaks and restored safety to water bodies once used as open sewers. No other company on the continent has constructed as many treatment plants in such a short span of time. No other private actor has stepped up when public systems failed.
After : Sewerage Systems
The question must then be asked — what would Ghana’s sanitation landscape look like today without Jospong? Certainly not what it is now. Communities that once bore the burden of indiscriminate dumping now boast modern treatment facilities that safeguard public health and protect the environment. In many areas, waste is no longer a hazard but a resource — turned into compost to boost agriculture, recycled into materials, or treated safely to prevent disease.
Yes, the system still faces challenges. Waste collection remains uneven in some areas, and the financial model underpinning it is clearly unsustainable without regular government support. But to place the blame solely on the company that has done more than any other to fix the problem is to ignore the bigger picture — a picture painted in both achievement and adversity. Jospong Group may not perfect. No company undertaking such a massive social task in a low-income country could be.
But villain? No.
If anything, Jospong is the unsung hero of Ghana’s sanitation revolution — underappreciated, overburdened, and yet still standing. Still fighting. Still serving. It’s time Ghanaians remembered the journey — from dumpsites to dignity — and acknowledged the group that made it possible.
