Author: johnmahama

Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to the sacred city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, to fulfil a mandatory religious duty as a capable Muslim. It must be carried out at least once in a Muslim’s lifetime as an adult who is physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey, and of supporting one’s family during your absence from home. It is the fifth pillar of Islam.The Holy Quran mentions the Hajj pilgrimage in several places, including, Surah Al-Hajj Ayat 27 (22:27 Quran). “Call ‘all’ people to the pilgrimage. They will come to you on foot and on every lean…

A common vaginal condition known as bacterial vaginosis (BV) may actually be a sexually transmitted infection (STI), according to researchers. The NHS currently says BV is caused by “a change in the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina and is not an STI”, even though it can be triggered by sex. However, a study claims BV – which affects nearly a third of women worldwide and can lead to infertility, premature births and newborn deaths – is spread during intercourse and fits the definition of an STI. The Australian trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found treating sexual…

In a world where resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice define true leadership, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan stands tall as an emblem of hope, strength, and inspiration. As the world marks International Women’s Day, today being March 8, 2025, it is only fitting to celebrate her as the Star Girl of the year, an honor that recognizes her indelible contributions to Nigerian politics, human rights activism, and the tireless pursuit of justice.Aptly described, Natasha is unarguably a trailblazer in law and activism. Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Born into a multicultural background with a Nigerian father…

Ketu North MP Edem Agbana Ketu North MP Edem Agbana has praised President John Dramani Mahama for not only presenting the true state of the economy but also outlining bold plans to address the country’s challenges.Speaking in Parliament, Agbana criticized the ruling government for failing to acknowledge the policy measures Mahama proposed.“President Mahama did not only give us the picture of the economy that he inherited, but he was also generous to the good people of Ghana by providing a comprehensive plan to address the challenges he encountered,” he stated.He particularly emphasized Mahama’s plan to improve governance, stating that under…

Dogs that are constantly hungry and prone to being overweight share a common bit of biology with some obesity-prone humans. This is what UK scientists have discovered – identifying a genetic source of many labradors’ – and some people’s – tendency to overeat. Researchers found that changes in a particular gene, one of the building blocks of biological code that produces the blueprint for how our bodies work, alters the chemical signals that tell our brains we’ve had enough to eat. The scientists say their findings, published in the journal Science, reveal something “powerful” about the biology of obesity risk. “By…

In recent days, Nigeria has been gripped by the allegations of sexual harassment surrounding the controversy between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. While the political and legal dimensions of this matter continue to unfold, it is disturbing to witness attempts by some individuals to paint this issue as a matter of God’s will or divine orchestration. This is nothing short of a travesty of truth and justice. Frankly put, there is no godliness in this saga, and no amount of religious misinterpretation should be used to excuse, justify, or cover up the evil that is sexual harassment.Whenever…

The Sunyani Technical University (STU) has officially matriculated 4,222 students at a colourful ceremony at the University’s main auditorium. This figure represents 62.3% of prospective students who were issued admission letters by the University.This year’s enrolment figure shows an increase of 25.6% over last year’s figure of 3,362.Out of the total enrolment, 2,756, representing 65.3%, are males, whilst 1,466, representing 34.7%, are females.Addressing the 29th matriculation of the University, the Vice-Chancellor, Ing. Prof. Kwadwo Adinkrah-Appiah explained that 111, representing 2.6%, enrolled in Graduate (Master’s) degree programmes; 3,681, representing 87.2%, enrolled in Bachelor’s degree (BTech/BSc.) programmes; and 430, representing 10.2%, enrolled…

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ato Forson interacting with some market women ahead of budget presentation Ahead of the 2025 Budget presentation on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has met with market women, including head porters, also known as “kayayei,” and other vendors in Makola Market, to hear about their expectations and concerns.Dr. Forson recognized the vital role these traders play in maintaining Ghana’s economy and described the encounter as a privilege.“It was a privilege to interact with these hardworking Ghanaians who break their backs daily to support our economy.“Friends, We Just concluded an insightful engagement…

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced the government’s intention to upgrade the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, commonly known as Ridge Hospital, into a Teaching Hospital. According to him, this initiative forms part of a broader strategy to enhance Ghana’s healthcare system and expand medical training opportunities. Speaking on JoyNews TV, Mr Akandoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to establishing at least one regional hospital in all sixteen regions. Additionally, he stressed the importance of refurbishing existing healthcare facilities to ensure their continued efficiency and effectiveness in delivering quality medical services. “We are also looking at upgrading some of…

Stakeholders in the digital financial eco-system are expecting the Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Atto Forson to outline strategies to improve already existing regulatory work by the Bank of Ghana to safeguard digital transactions. They believe this will serve as an assurance to investment protection and attract more investors into the industry. Speaking to Joy Business on expectations of the 2025 Budget and Economic Policy of government, Director of Strategy and Chief of Staff at Yellow Card, Gillian Darko said this will demonstrate government’s intention to improve operations of the sector. The Finance Minister is expected to present the 2025 Budget…