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Africa Aims to Become “Rule Maker” in Global Digital Space

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April 14, 2026

Africa Aims to Become “Rule Maker” in Global Digital Space

Source: Abigail Kessewaa

Delegates from across Africa gathered in Accra for a major telecommunications meeting aimed at shaping the continent’s digital future and strengthening its position ahead of WTSA-28.
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‎Speaking at the opening on Monday April 6, 2026, the Minister for Communication, Samuel Nartey George, said the need for Africa to take a leading role in global digital policies, stating that the continent must move from being “rule takers” to “rule makers.”
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‎The Minister highlighted the growing impact of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and 5G, noting that while they present opportunities, they also come with challenges that require strong and unified standards.
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‎He explained that such standards are essential to ensure secure, reliable, and inclusive digital services across countries.
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‎According to him, Africa must increase its participation in global standard setting by building capacity, strengthening collaboration, and encouraging knowledge sharing among professionals.
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‎He also pointed to progress made at the previous WTSA meeting, where Africa presented several joint proposals, many of which were adopted, covering areas such as artificial intelligence and strategic digital planning.
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‎The meeting in Accra is expected to help African countries develop a common position that reflects the continent’s needs while aligning with global standards.

Kasoa Gets Ultra-Modern DVLA Centre to Curb ‘Goro Boys’ Activities

Najat Adamu

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April 14, 2026

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Kasoa Gets Ultra-Modern DVLA Centre to Curb ‘Goro Boys’ Activities

Residents of Kasoa in the Awutu Senya East Municipality are set to benefit from improved driver and vehicle licensing services following the commissioning of a new ultra-modern centre by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).

The facility, established in collaboration with the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, aims to eliminate the activities of middlemen—commonly referred to as “goro boys”—who often exploit motorists seeking DVLA services.

Speaking during the commissioning, the Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Services, Foster Akwesi Asante, stated that the initiative is part of efforts to decentralise DVLA operations and make services more accessible.

He explained that the new centre will significantly reduce the need for residents to travel long distances to access essential services such as vehicle registration and document renewals.

According to him, the inconvenience previously faced by motorists contributed to the rise of fraudulent intermediaries, adding that the new facility will streamline operations and help eliminate such practices.

Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Phyllis Naa Koryoo Okunor, urged drivers in Kasoa and surrounding communities to take full advantage of the centre and avoid engaging unauthorised agents.

She also announced that Kasoa has been assigned its own vehicle registration prefix, “KS,” describing it as a major milestone for the rapidly growing municipality.

The commissioning of the new DVLA centre is expected to improve service delivery, enhance efficiency, and protect motorists from exploitation.

‘Sack 24-Hour Politicians’ – Asiedu Nketia Warns NDC Executives

Najat Adamu

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April 14, 2026

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‘Sack 24-Hour Politicians’ – Asiedu Nketia Warns NDC Executives

The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has cautioned party executives against accommodating individuals who frequently switch political allegiance.

Speaking during his Thank You tour in the Asawase Constituency in the Ashanti Region, Mr Asiedu Nketia criticised what he described as “24-hour politicians”—individuals who alternate between major political parties such as the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He warned that such individuals often exhibit double standards, claiming they spend “12 hours in one party” before moving to another, and therefore cannot be trusted.

According to him, tolerating such behaviour could undermine party unity and credibility.

At the same event, Nana Osei Gyebi II, Otumfuo’s Akotorsuhene, appealed to the government to extend more development projects to the community. He also urged the NDC leadership to reward loyal party members with employment opportunities.

Responding to these concerns, the Member of Parliament for Asawase, Mubarak Muntaka, acknowledged the community’s demands for additional development projects, while highlighting the NDC’s contributions to the constituency’s growth.

Carlos Queiroz appointed Black Stars Coach for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Ebenezer Madugu

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April 13, 2026

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Carlos Queiroz appointed Black Stars Coach for 2026 FIFA World Cup

The Ghana Football Association has appointed Carlos Queiroz as the new head coach of Ghana’s senior national team, the Black Stars.

The experienced former Real Madrid, Manchester United, Portugal, and Iran coach is expected to lead Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Queiroz brings a strong World Cup pedigree to the role. He previously helped South Africa qualify for the 2002 tournament, guided Portugal to the knockout stage in 2010, and led Iran at both the 2014 and 2018 editions.

He has also managed national teams and clubs across Egypt, Oman, Japan, and Qatar.

He is expected to begin work immediately, focusing on preparations for the global tournament, which kicks off on June 11, 2026.

Ghana will open its group-stage campaign against Panama on June 17, 2026, in Toronto, before taking on England and Croatia in the remaining Group matches.

UTAG Demands Removal of GTEC Leadership Within 14 Days

Najat Adamu

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April 13, 2026

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UTAG Demands Removal of GTEC Leadership Within 14 Days

Source: Ebenezer De-Gaulle

The University Teachers’ Association of Ghana (UTAG) has asked President John Dramani Mahama to relieve the Director-General of GTEC and his deputies to restore confidence in the tertiary education sector and reset its regulatory posture.

At a news conference in Accra, UTAG claimed that the manner in which GTEC handled accreditation issues at the University of Cape Coast and other tertiary institutions amounts to clear regulatory overreach and a coercive administrative posture.

UTAG said it will not tolerate this and therefore believes a new GTEC leadership is urgently needed to correct the many wrongs it says have affected the university teaching and learning environment.

The President of UTAG, Prof Vera Fiador, who addressed the media, also took the opportunity to highlight other concerns, including the imposition of prior approval requirements over appointments, post-retirement engagements, and internal administrative positions that fall within the authority of universities.

UTAG said Prof Abdulai Jinapor and his deputies are disrespecting the rules of engagement in the management and execution of accreditation, promotion and appointments within the university space, and must be removed to pave the way for proper procedural actions across universities.

Cashew Sector Set for Boost as Ghana Moves to Curb Raw Exports

Ebenezer Madugu

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April 13, 2026

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Cashew Sector Set for Boost as Ghana Moves to Curb Raw Exports

Ghana’s cashew industry has long been dominated by the export of raw nuts, with much of the value-added taking place outside the country.

While farmers across Bono, Bono East and Ahafo produce in large quantities, limited local processing has meant fewer jobs and reduced earnings for the economy.

A new agreement between the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and Sentuo Group Limited is set to change that narrative.

At the heart of the deal is the establishment of a modern cashew processing plant at Sampa.

According to the Agric Minister, Eric Opoku, the company will also purchase raw cashew nuts directly from farmers – an intervention expected to improve market access and stabilise prices.

The move signals a shift from exporting raw cashew to processing locally, allowing Ghana to retain more value within the sector. Processing involves shelling, grading and packaging – activities that create jobs and stimulate related industries such as transport and logistics.

Chairman of the company, Xu Ningquan, says the group is committed to manufacturing and job creation, aligning with Ghana’s industrialization drive.

The agreement also includes plans to establish 30 farmer centres nationwide to support production and ensure a steady supply of raw materials.

If fully implemented, the initiative could transform the cashew value chain – boosting farmer incomes, creating employment, and reducing Ghana’s dependence on raw exports.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Government Signs MoU with Sentuo Group to Boost Agric Value Chain

Ebenezer Madugu

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April 13, 2026

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Government Signs MoU with Sentuo Group to Boost Agric Value Chain

The Ministry of Food and Agriculture has signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Sentuo Group Limited aimed at strengthening Ghana’s agricultural value chain and creating jobs.

The agreements, signed in Accra, cover the establishment of a modern cashew processing plant, a fertilizer production facility, and farmer support centres across the country.

Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, disclosed that the first MoU will see the construction of a modern cashew processing plant at Sampa in the Bono Region. According to him, the project will enable the company to purchase raw cashew nuts directly from farmers, improving market access and boosting incomes.

He added that a second agreement focuses on the completion of a fertilizer factory in Ghana, with assurances from the company to expedite work on the project.

“In the third MoU, they will also set up 30 farmer centres across the country to support agricultural production,” the Minister noted.

Chairman of Sentuo Group Limited, Xu Ningquan, expressed satisfaction with the partnership, describing it as a step in the right direction.

He indicated that the company is committed to supporting Ghana’s industrialisation drive, particularly under the government’s 24-hour economy agenda.

“We are happy to sign these MoUs. The 24-hour economy is a good thing, and we are much into manufacturing. We will provide jobs. I can do it. We have refined oil, and how much more fertilizer,” he stated.

The agreements are expected to enhance agro-processing, improve input supply, and create employment opportunities within the agricultural sector.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Kwahu Easter 2026 Records Low Crime, Improved Sanitation – Officials Commend Public

Najat Adamu

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April 13, 2026

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Kwahu Easter 2026 Records Low Crime, Improved Sanitation – Officials Commend Public

The 2026 Kwahu Easter celebrations have been hailed as peaceful and well-organised, with authorities reporting a significant drop in crime and notable improvements in sanitation.

According to Eastern North Regional Police Commander, George Ankomah (DCOP), this year’s event recorded fewer crime incidents compared to previous editions.

He attributed the success to heightened police visibility, effective security planning, and strong cooperation from both residents and visitors. DCOP Ankomah commended the public for their orderly conduct throughout the festivities.

However, he urged continued vigilance, encouraging the public to support the police by reporting suspicious individuals and activities to help sustain security in Kwahu and surrounding communities.

Meanwhile, Municipal Environmental Officer Welbeck Kobina Dzidza also praised residents and visitors for maintaining a high level of cleanliness during the celebrations.

He noted that with support from the Kwahu South Municipal Assembly, effective waste management systems were implemented, resulting in a cleaner environment throughout the Easter period.

Mr Dzidza further encouraged the public to maintain proper sanitation practices beyond the festivities to preserve the gains achieved.

US Court Clears Extradition of Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Attionu to Ghana

Najat Adamu

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April 13, 2026

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US Court Clears Extradition of Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Attionu to Ghana

Source: Ebenezer De-Gaulle

A United States court has approved the extradition of former Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) Chief Executive Officer, Sedina Christine Tamakloe Attionu, to Ghana to face multiple criminal charges related to financial misconduct.

The ruling, delivered by the United States District Court for the District of Nevada on April 9, 2026, follows a request by the Government of Ghana seeking Attionu’s return to serve her sentence after being convicted in absentia.

According to court documents, she was found guilty by a Ghanaian court on dozens of counts, including stealing, conspiracy to steal, willfully causing financial loss to the state, causing loss to public property, and money laundering.

The charges stem from her tenure as CEO of Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) between 2013 and 2017.

Prosecutors allege that Sedina Attionu, together with former MASLOC Operations Manager Daniel Axim, orchestrated several schemes that led to the misappropriation of more than GH₵25.6 million (approximately $6 million).

The funds were reportedly diverted through fraudulent loan disbursements, inflated procurement deals, and misuse of public resources intended for development and disaster relief.

Among the key allegations, the court cited evidence that Tamakloe retained large sums of MASLOC funds meant for microfinance investments, failed to implement approved nationwide programmes despite withdrawing millions of cedis, and diverted disaster relief funds intended for victims of the Kantamanto Market fire.

The US court determined that the offences were covered under existing extradition agreements between the United States and Ghana, including provisions under international anti-corruption frameworks.

It also ruled that there was sufficient evidence to establish probable cause, noting that Attionu’s conviction in Ghana further strengthened the case for extradition.

“The evidence before this Court is sufficient to justify the fugitive’s arrest and committal for trial had the alleged offenses occurred in the United States,” the ruling stated.

Sedina, who was arrested in Nevada in January 2026, will remain in US custody pending a final decision by the US Secretary of State on her surrender to Ghanaian authorities.

Extradition proceedings in the United States typically involve both judicial and executive processes, with the court certifying eligibility before the final diplomatic decision is made.

The case marks a significant step in Ghana’s efforts to pursue accountability in high-profile corruption cases involving public officials.

UK Considers Adopting EU Trade Rules Through New Law

Najat Adamu

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April 13, 2026

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UK Considers Adopting EU Trade Rules Through New Law

Source: Ebenezer De-Gaulle

BBC report earlier this morning says the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, is preparing a new law that could allow the UK to follow certain rules from the European Union, EU without going through the usual full parliamentary voting process.
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‎The proposed legislation is aimed at bringing the UK closer to European standards, especially in areas like food safety and agricultural regulations. Government sources say the move is designed to make trade smoother and reduce extra costs that businesses have faced since.
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‎According to a source from the ruling, the changes could help lower business expenses and remove what they describe as unnecessary paperwork that has increased the cost of everyday goods, including food.
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‎However, the plan has triggered strong reactions from opposition groups. Members of the Conservative Party and Reform UK have criticized the proposal, arguing that it reduces the role of Parliament in decision-making.
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‎At the center of the debate is the idea of “dynamic alignment.” This would mean that when the EU introduces new regulations, the UK could adopt them more quickly through a process called secondary legislation. This process usually allows limited debate and cannot easily be changed by lawmakers.
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‎Critics, including Conservative politician, argue that such a system would weaken parliamentary oversight, effectively allowing decisions made in Brussels to influence UK laws with minimal scrutiny.
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‎Meanwhile, leader of Reform UK, has strongly opposed the proposal, calling it an indirect attempt to bring the UK back under EU control. On the other hand, the Liberal Democrats supports closer ties with Europe but insists that democratic processes must be protected.
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‎The UK government has defended the plan, stating that Parliament will still review the bill and any agreements made with the EU. Officials also argue that the changes could unlock a major food and drink trade deal worth billions of pounds annually, benefiting farmers and businesses.
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‎Although the Labour government has ruled out rejoining the EU’s single market, this new approach could still see the UK adopt selected European rules as part of future agreements.
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‎Further discussions between the UK and EU are expected later this year at a planned summit, where leaders hope to build on previous agreements covering trade, energy, and security.
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‎Prime Minister Starmer has indicated that the upcoming talks will aim for more ambitious cooperation, signaling a possible shift toward a closer UK-EU relationship while maintaining national control.

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