Economy

In a striking development, Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the temporary closure of the country’s embassy in the United States. This drastic measure stems from an ongoing investigation concerning serious allegations of visa fraud. The troubling revelations came to light following a meticulous audit that uncovered a sophisticated fraudulent operation purportedly orchestrated by a locally recruited staff member in collaboration with accomplices over a span of five years. Imagine the…

Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has returned to Ghana after a two-month medical treatment abroad. Her unexpected health issue, surfacing just months after her inauguration alongside President John Mahama, raised considerable speculation about her condition and resilience. The warm welcome she received upon her arrival at the airport was unmistakable. President Mahama was there to greet her, flanked by a cadre of government officials. This reception mirrored the affection and respect she commands across the nation.…

The World Food Programme (WFP) has issued an urgent warning regarding the escalating food insecurity in the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and its neighboring countries. As 2024 unfolds, the consequences of heightened violence are becoming increasingly dire. The long-standing conflict has dramatically intensified this year, with M23 rebels capturing key cities such as Goma in North Kivu and Bukavu in South Kivu. These developments have not only exacerbated the humanitarian crisis but have also…

As ECOWAS approaches its golden anniversary, a pressing question looms large: Do the people of West Africa still believe in an organization that was once the bedrock of regional identity and cooperation? In an era where diplomatic ties are being tested, the emergence of the Alliance of Sahel States—comprised of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—stands out. This coalition, dominated by military regimes, poses not merely a provocative challenge but a seismic shift in the regional landscape. Sahel researcher Komlan Avoulete,…

The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo recently made headlines, casting a decisive vote that stripped former President Joseph Kabila of his honorific immunity. This significant move comes amidst serious accusations linking him to the M23 rebel group, which, backed by Rwanda, has been implicated in territorial conflicts in the country’s mineral-rich eastern regions. In an outcome reflecting a clear majority, 88 senators supported the motion, while a mere five stood in opposition and three abstained. This overwhelming…

The Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) have urgently appealed to lawmakers for increased funding to tackle the ongoing mpox outbreak. Currently, four active cases have been confirmed. This request emerged during a recent public hearing, where the House of Representatives invited health officials to shed light on the troubling resurgence of the disease. Dugbeh Chris Nyan, the head of NPHIL, emphasized the critical need for resources to enhance the institute's operations and…

At the recent 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, an impressive coalition of world leaders and philanthropic organizations came together, collectively pledging over $170 million to bolster the efforts of the World Health Organization (WHO). These contributions are not merely funds; they signify a commitment to global health at a time when it is desperately needed. This financial injection aligns with WHO's ongoing Investment Round, which supports its 14th General Programme of Work. This ambitious initiative aims to save…

During a significant meeting at the White House, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa addressed the contentious narrative of alleged white genocide in his country. This encounter with U.S. President Donald Trump was more than just an exchange of pleasantries; it represented a pivotal moment in reshaping diplomatic relations between South Africa and the United States. Trump, showcasing video clips featuring South African opposition leaders using provocative slogans, attempted to bolster his claims. Yet, Ramaphosa was…

In a striking revelation, a recent report from ActionAid—the international development agency—illuminates the grim reality of healthcare in Liberia. It starkly highlights that a staggering 97 percent of health workers earn salaries insufficient to meet even the most basic living expenses. Titled "The Human Cost of Public Sector Cuts in Africa," this report extends its scrutiny beyond Liberia, analyzing the healthcare challenges faced by five additional African nations. Imagine dedicating your life to healing others, only…

Enoch Godongwana, the Minister of Finance, made a notable reappearance in Parliament today, seeking to present the revised 2025 Budget Review after several prior attempts. This return to the legislative arena was not just routine; it carried the weight of expectation and anticipation. What led to this repeat moment? One might wonder. The atmosphere was charged as he approached the lectern. Legislators, many of whom had been following the fiscal discussions closely, perched on the edges of their seats. Godongwana’s task was…