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“suspicious flight” claims must be properly investigated – UN Office on Drugs

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Office on Drugs

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) says it is closely monitoring developments as Ghanaian authorities proceed with investigations into claims made by Ghana’s Minority MPs alleging that two aircraft suspected of transporting cocaine and cash used Ghana as a transit point for organized crime.

Even before National Security and other relevant agencies officially conclude investigations ordered by President John Mahama, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications has dismissed the claims made by Assin South MP, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, regarding alleged drug trafficking and money laundering involving the two aircraft.

In an explainer posted on social media, Felix Kwakye Ofosu described Mr. Fordjour’s allegations as baseless, accusing him of engaging in deliberate disinformation to undermine public confidence in the government.

However, speaking exclusively to Joy News’ Blessed Sogah, the Regional Adviser for Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Financing of Terrorism, and Anti-Corruption at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Kodjo Attisso, indicated that the allegations must be thoroughly investigated. He also expressed UNODC’s willingness to work with President Mahama on his declared zero-tolerance policy for organized crime.

“Any allegation of such a case should be properly investigated and prosecuted. And then we do believe also in the work of law enforcement and the judiciary. At this stage. We can just support and hope that they will come up with concrete results. But since it’s, you know, in the investigative stage, we cannot say much, but we are just following the case.” Kodjo Attisso stated.

n the meantime, the UN official commended the efforts of Ghanaian authorities in fighting corruption and organized crime, while welcoming the high-level statement by President John Mahama, which he posted on his Facebook wall, declaring zero tolerance for organized crime.

“So any kind of crime should be combated and we are happy, we are grateful that the President of Ghana has that direction. We know the harm of organized crime groups in our society. So the more we fight them, we make Ghana safer and secure,” he added.

Ghana|Myjoyonline.com

TPTI Marks 8th Graduation with Call to Excellence in Pharmaceutical Care

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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TPTI

The Tobinco Pharmaceuticals Training Institute (TPTI) has held its 8th graduation ceremony with a strong call to graduates to pursue continuous excellence and become transformational players in Ghana’s healthcare system.

Held at the SIKA Hall of the Tobinco Media Group in Accra, the event saw 119 students receive certificates in six-month and one-year Medicine Counter Assistant (MCA) programmes. The ceremony, themed “Unlocking Potentials and Pursuing Excellence,” was a tribute to academic grit, professional discipline, and the power of accessible healthcare training.

TPTI

The Director of TPTI, Rev. Joseph Ahiable, opened the event with a reflection on the founding vision of the institute, which was born out of the foresight of Executive Group Chairman of the Tobinco Group of Companies, Elder Dr. Samuel Amo Tobbin

“This institution emerged during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a clear mandate to provide affordable and high-quality training for those passionate about health delivery,” – Rev. Ahiable said.

“Today, we are proud to release another cohort of capable hands into Ghana’s health ecosystem.”

He underscored the Institute’s growing reputation for excellence and hinted at plans to expand its reach across all regions in Ghana.

TPTI

The Resident Minister of the PIWC- Accra, Apostle Kingsley Addai, who delivered the keynote address, offered a compelling message on the relationship between education and personal transformation.

“You are the custodians of untapped potential,” he told graduates. “Education is the key that unlocks it—and your journey through TPTI has placed you on the path to greatness.”

TPTI

He lauded the school’s focus on practical, accessible training, calling it a model worthy of emulation across tertiary education institutions in Ghana.

ALSO READ: Atinka FM holds 10th Anniversary thanksgiving service 

One of the most anticipated moments of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding graduates.

Ms. Abigail Adzigbli, a registered midwife and graduate of Koforidua SHS, was named Best Student for Batch 12. A working mother and caregiver, her academic achievement was hailed as a testament to resilience and dedication.

TPTI
Ms. Abigail Adzigbli, Receiving the Best Student for Batch 12.

Ghana Armed Forces officer and graduate of Cape Coast Technical University, Mr. Mensah Sekyi, was honoured for his leadership and coordination as Assistant Course Representative for Batch 13 Weekend Class.

TPTI
Mr. Mensah Sekyi, receiving the honor for his leadership and coordination.

Mr. Benjamin Kobina Okyere, a recent Aburaman SHS graduate, was named Overall Best Student. Widely respected among peers for his leadership, Benjamin’s consistent support for classmates through study sessions and academic guidance made him a standout.

TPTI
Mr. Benjamin Kobina Okyere receiving the Overall Best Student prize.

Ms. Angela Parker-London, a graduate of Accra Wesley Girls’ High School and social media influencer, received a special award for her role in marketing the school. Her engaging TikTok content is credited with drawing hundreds of prospective students to the programme.

Beyond the certificates and accolades, the event underscored a larger ambition: to shape a new generation of pharmaceutical support professionals equipped with both technical skills and a mindset for service.

“Excellence is not a destination; it’s a lifelong pursuit,” Rev. Ahiable reminded the graduates. “Let your work reflect the values of this institution—discipline, compassion, and integrity.”

As TPTI continues to position itself as a leader in Ghana’s health education space, its graduates leave not just with qualifications, but with a renewed sense of purpose—ready to serve, ready to lead, and ready to impact lives.

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Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Ntim Fordjour Fires Back At Kwakye Ofosu, says He is a Truthful Pastor

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Ntim Fordjour

The Ranking Member of the Defense and Interior Committee in Parliament, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has vehemently denied claims made by Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, over his allegations of suspicious aircraft landing at Kotoka International Airport.

Speaking on Atinka 104.7 FM’s morning show with Ekow Budu Sam, the Assin South MP declared, “I am a pastor, and I don’t lie. I have not been invited by any security agency as Kwakye Ofosu claimed. I challenge him to produce a single letter indicating I was invited.”

Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, described the minister’s comments as “pure lies” and an attempt to shield the government from accountability after he raised red flags about the presence of aircraft allegedly involved in drug trafficking and money laundering in Ghana.

According to him, after President John Mahama directed those investigations be conducted into the matter, he personally wrote to the relevant agencies proposing a joint meeting to fast-track the process. However, he claims those efforts were deliberately blocked.

“They are still covering up after I exposed them. I was looking forward to engaging them, but they backed out. What were they afraid of?” – he questioned.

ALSO READ: Gov’t Dismisses Ntim Fordjour’sClaims on ‘Suspicious Aircraft’ at Kotoka 

Rev. Fordjour further said he was pleased that the government has now admitted that the aircraft did arrive in Ghana and even confirmed the number of days they spent in the country.

“Ofosu’s explanations don’t make sense. How can a plane traveling from Spain to Angola  skip all the countries along the route and suddenly land in Ghana? He even said the crew fell sick—so which hospital did they go to? The answers are not adding up.”

He also disputed the minister’s claim that one of the aircrafts had proper permits. “Is Ghana the place where permits are given for flights that are headed to the EU? That explanation doesn’t hold,” he added.

Rev. Fordjour criticized Kwakye Ofosu for turning a national security concern into political banter, saying: “He’s just doing politics. We expect the National Security apparatus to handle this matter independently. They must also come out and update the public on the unresolved Sapeiman issue.”

The back-and-forth between the two officials follows recent reports about two aircraft—an Antonov cargo plane and an air ambulance—whose landings in Ghana raised concerns about possible illicit activities. While the government insists the flights were legitimate and fully cleared, Rev. Ntim Fordjour continues to call for transparency and independent investigations.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Suspicious Flights at Kotoka: All You Must Know

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Suspicious Flights
  1. Allegations by MP 

Rev. Ntim Fordjour, also MP for Assin South, claimed that two aircraft were involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.

2. Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed allegations made by Rev. John Ntim Fordjour regarding suspicious aircraft landings at Kotoka International Airport.

3. President Mahama’s Response 

The President directed security agencies to investigate the matter and invited Fordjour to provide evidence—but he reportedly failed to cooperate.

4. Fordjour Shifts Position 

   According to the Minister, Fordjour now claims he spoke on behalf of a parliamentary committee, not in his personal capacity, and refuses to assist investigators.

5. Details of Aircraft 1 – Antonov An-12B (CVK7037)

 Date of Arrival: March 12, 2025 

Purpose: Technical stop en route from Luanda to the EU 

Cargo: Oil drilling equipment and lubricant oil 

Reason for Stop: Ghana has certified scanning facilities required by EU regulations, which Angola lacks 

   Incident: Aircraft developed engine blade fault and oil leakage 

   Action Taken: Replacement aircraft (CV7007) sent to evacuate cargo 

  Inspection Result: No contraband or illegal items found

6. Details of Aircraft 2 – AirMed Hawker 800XP (N823AM)

 Date of Arrival: March 20, 2025 

  Operator: AirMed International (air ambulance service) 

   Route: From Spain via Angola 

 Purpose: Technical stop for refueling and crew rest 

 Incident: Developed tyre fault on landing 

 Resolution: Spare parts flown in, aircraft fixed and departed on March 25 

 Inspection Result: Cleared of any illegal activity

7. Government’s position

 Claims by Rev. Fordjour are false, misleading, and politically motivated. 

 No evidence of drug or money laundering found. 

  Urges public to be cautious of disinformation from opposition groups

8. Warning Against Political Misinformation 

 The Minister condemns attempts to mislead the public under the guise of legislative oversight and calls for responsible political conduct.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Fire Destroys Shops at Tema Community One Market

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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A fire outbreak at the Tema Community One Market in the early hours of Thursday, April 3, has destroyed several shops, leaving traders counting their losses.

The incident, which occurred behind the ABSA Bank on Mangoase Lane, affected eight shops, with three completely razed by the flames. Firefighters from the Tema Metro and Industrial Area Fire Stations responded swiftly after receiving a distress call at 2:34 a.m., according to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

ALSO READ: Gov’t Dismisses Ntim Fordjour’sClaims on ‘Suspicious Aircraft’ at Kotoka 

The GNFS teams managed to bring the blaze under control within an hour, preventing it from spreading further. Over 100 adjoining shops were saved from destruction due to the timely intervention.

No injuries or casualties were recorded. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigations are currently underway.

Authorities are urging market traders and the public to strictly observe fire safety protocols to avoid future disasters.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Philip Azu

Gov’t Dismisses Ntim Fordjour’sClaims on ‘Suspicious Aircraft’ at Kotoka 

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Ntim Fordjour

The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed allegations made by Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee, regarding the alleged landing of suspicious aircraft at Kotoka International Airport. 

Fordjour had called for an urgent briefing on the cargo carried by two aircraft—AirMed Flight N823AM and Cavok Air Antonov An-12B—which he claimed were transporting cocaine and cash into the country.

His allegations prompted President John Dramani Mahama to order an investigation into the matter. 

Addressing the issue on Thursday, April 3, Minister Ofosu accused Fordjour of deliberately spreading falsehoods.

He stated that after being invited to assist in investigations, the MP distanced himself from his claims, saying they were not his personal views but those of the committee he represented. 

“He now claims that the views he expressed were not his personal opinions but those of the committee, and for that reason, he is unable to cooperate with security agencies,” Ofosu stated. 

The Minister further criticized Fordjour’s actions, arguing that his statements were baseless and intended to create public distrust in the government. He insisted that the facts contradicted Fordjour’s claims and accused him of attempting to mislead the public. 

The government has assured Ghanaians that thorough investigations are ongoing to clarify the matter and maintain national security.

Ghana|Atinkaonline

PanAfrica-Ghana President Calls for Mindset Shift in Creative Industry

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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PanAfrica-Ghana

President of PanAfrica-Ghana, Ras Caleb Appiah-Levi has urged Ghanaians to change their mindset towards the creative industry, emphasizing that a shift in perspective is necessary for the industry’s growth and success.

 “To me, there’s no hope in our creative arts industry unless we change our mindset and approach,” he said.

Appiah-Levi, a musician and Pan Africanist, believes that a good Pan Africanist should prioritize their country’s betterment and love their nation as themselves. He cited Dr. Kwame Nkrumah as an exemplary Pan Africanist.

In a recent conversation on Atinka TV’s Entertainment Lounge show with the host (Odeefour Diasapapa), Appiah-Levi shared his vision for the PanAfrican movement, which includes music and the arts as a driving force for development. He also discussed his trip to Ethiopia, where he presented the “MUSIC FOR DEVELOPMENT” project to the African Union Commission (AUC) and secured endorsement for the “HEALING AFRICA TOUR (HAT)” project.

PanAfrica-Ghana

The trip allowed Ras Caleb Appiah-Levi to make a presentation to the leadership of the African Union Commission (AUC) and have an in-depth discussion with the Chairman, His Excellency Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, and his team.

 He also sought to launch a proposed “GIVE YOUR HEART TO AFRICA CONSOLIDATED RELIEF FUND (GYHTACRF)” in an event dubbed “AFRICA FAMILY REUNION JAM BENEFIT CONCERTS (AFREJABEC)”.

The project’s first activity, the “2ND PAN AFRICAN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND FAIR 2025,” will take place in seven regions in Ghana from July 25 to August 3, 2025, featuring participants from over 40 countries.

Appiah-Levi concluded by advising musicians to prioritize helping the needy and having the people at heart, as they are the ones who have contributed to their success.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Shirley Irene Thompson

Ghanaian author, Kobina Ansah, writes children’s book for son’s birthday

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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Kobina_Ansah

Renowned Ghanaian author and playwright, Kobina Ansah, has written a children’s book for his son’s first birthday, opting for a meaningful and lasting gift over a traditional birthday party.

In an interview on Atinka Radio’s Dot 2 Dot show, Ansah shared his inspiration for writing the book to the host Odeefour Diasapapa.

He cited his father’s influence, who encouraged him to read and write from a young age. Ansah’s passion for storytelling led him to become a writer and extend his skills to stage play.

The book, titled “Animuonyam Ansah The Bully Stopper,” addresses the issue of bullying among children, teens, and young adults. Ansah emphasized that the book is not just for his child but for every child out there.

He also noted that, his decision to write a children’s book has been met with enthusiasm, with both kids and parents praising the book and thanking him for addressing a critical issue.

Ansah also highlighted the importance of theatre in Ghanaian society. “Theatre is a place where minds are changed, and it serves as therapy for many. It relieves people of stress and kills depression. We cannot underestimate the impact of theatre on Ghana.”

He also expressed his excitement about the growing interest in theatre.

“Times are changing, and I’m glad theatre is getting attention. My plays have been recording huge patronage, and that is very encouraging.”

As a playwright, Ansah is committed to tackling social issues through his plays.

“I write plays that touch on social issues, tackling pertinent and relatable issues common to all Ghanaians. I believe in resetting the mindset of Ghanaians through storytelling on stage.”

Ansah started his writing journey in 2015, despite being a teacher, writing has always been his passion.

“It’s been a decade, and I’ve held the interest of theatre fans with plays like In The Pants of A Woman, Once Upon A Riddle, The Boy Called A Girl, and Emergency Wedding, among others.”

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Shirley Irene Thompson

MTN Ghana Launches Y’ello Ladies Network to Empower Female Employees 

By
Ebenezer Madugu
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MTN Ghana

MTN Ghana has launched the Y’ello Ladies Network, an all-female employee group aimed at promoting career development, leadership, and empowerment within the organisation.

The initiative underscores MTN’s commitment to gender equality and fostering a supportive environment for women. 

Speaking at the launch, the CEO of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, highlighted the importance of increasing female representation in the corporate sector. He stated that companies with at least 30% female leadership perform better in dynamic business environments.

He encouraged members to use the platform not only for self-development but also to make a positive impact on society. 

MTN Ghana

Chief Finance Officer of MTN Ghana, Antoinette Kwofie, described the network as a vital step in advancing women’s leadership. She noted that it will provide mentorship, coaching, and networking opportunities to enhance career growth and increase the visibility of women in the workplace. The network is built on four key pillars: empowerment, inspiration, guidance, and coaching. 

ALSO READ: A Decade of Luxury: Kempinski Launches 10-years Anniversary Celebrations

Presidential Advisor Joyce Bawah Mogtari, who was the special guest, emphasised the power of networking in career advancement.

She urged women to be intentional about building strong professional connections, stating that true success comes from creating opportunities for others.

MTN Ghana

Other notable speakers, including Janet Sunkwa-Mills, Dzigbordi Dosoo, and Taaka Awori, echoed similar sentiments, stressing self-development, mentorship, and confidence as key to success. 

The launch event brought together MTN executives, female employees, and leaders of various women’s associations, reinforcing MTN Ghana’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.

The Y’ello Ladies Network is expected to serve as a sustainable platform for empowering women and fostering professional excellence within the company. 

MTN Ghana

MTN Ghana, a subsidiary of the MTN Group, remains committed to digital innovation and gender equality, aligning with its Ambition 2025 strategy to lead Africa’s digital transformation.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Nana Owoahene Acheampong

A Decade of Luxury: Kempinski Launches 10-years Anniversary Celebrations

By
Ebenezer Madugu
-
Kempinski

For ten years, Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra has stood as a beacon of luxury, elegance, and world-class hospitality in Ghana’s capital.

This milestone was marked with a grand media launch, setting the stage for months of celebration to honor the hotel’s impact on Ghana’s tourism, business, and hospitality industries. 

Since opening its doors in 2015, Kempinski has redefined luxury in Accra, welcoming global dignitaries, business executives, and leisure travelers seeking an unparalleled experience.

At the heart of its success is an unwavering commitment to excellence—an ethos that has not only earned the hotel numerous awards but also cemented its place as a leader in Ghana’s hospitality landscape. 

Speaking at the event, the hotel’s General Manager reflected on Kempinski’s journey, from its ambitious beginnings to its status today as the preferred destination for luxury and business travelers.

“Ten years ago, we set out to create something extraordinary—a space that blends the warmth of Ghanaian hospitality with the sophistication of world-class service. Today, we can proudly say we have achieved that and more,” – he stated. 

Kempinski

Beyond offering a five-star experience, Kempinski has played a pivotal role in Ghana’s economic growth. The hotel has provided employment opportunities, supported local businesses, and engaged in impactful corporate social responsibility initiatives, including its BE Health program, which has improved healthcare access in local communities. 

The 10th-anniversary celebrations will include a series of events highlighting the hotel’s core pillars—its people, its guests, and its community. Among the planned activities is the unveiling of a new gourmet and bar experience, further elevating its reputation as a culinary hotspot.

Kempinski

The celebrations will culminate in a grand gala in November, honoring the dedicated staff and loyal guests who have been part of the journey. 

As Kempinski Gold Coast City Accra embarks on its next decade, it remains committed to pushing the boundaries of hospitality, embracing innovation, and positioning Ghana as a premier destination for luxury tourism. 

Kempinski
The Minister, Hon. Dzifa Gomashie with the General Manager of Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra, with Hanno Barkhoff

Ten years down, a future of endless possibilities ahead—Kempinski is just getting started.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

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