Author: johnmahama

The recent move by the U.S. administration to consider visa restrictions on Ghana—alongside 24 other African nations—raises concerns regarding bilateral relations, economic stability, and mobility for Ghanaian citizens. While the stated rationale includes visa overstay concerns, unreliable civil documentation, and lack of cooperation with U.S. immigration enforcement, this development demands a proactive and strategic approach from Ghana’s leadership.This article explores the possible implications of the proposed restrictions, assesses Ghana’s vulnerabilities, and outlines policy recommendations to mitigate risks while safeguarding Ghana’s global mobility and economic interests.Potential Implications for Ghana1. Economic DisruptionsThe U.S. is one of Ghana’s largest trade and investment partners,…

File photo of a black cat A compelling tale from Asante history reveals the enigmatic escape of Nana Owusu Sekyere Panin, a former Mamponghene known for his mystical powers, as documented by scholars Robert S. Rattray and Ivor Wilks. According to written and oral accounts, Nana Owusu Sekyere Panin, described as possessing supernatural abilities, exhibited significant insubordination toward Asantehene Osei Kwame, feeling untouchable due to his mystical prowess. This defiance prompted the Asantehene to incite rebellion among Gyamase, Afidwase, and Edwera against their overlord, the Mamponghene. In response, Osei Kwame dispatched the renowned Ankaasehene Yaw-Amoa Ponko to lead warriors against…

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin says the government’s indefinite suspension of the controversial Energy Sector Levy, aka ‘Dumsor Levy’, is proof of deep hypocrisy, confusion, and incompetence on the part of the Mahama-led administration. He described the U-turn as a “shameful retreat” and said it completely exposes the NDC’s “intellectual dishonesty.” “Just months ago, they were shouting from every rooftop that our administration was using COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war as excuses. Now they are in power and using the Middle East crisis to justify crude oil volatility? That is the height of hypocrisy,” he stated. The Effutu MP slammed what…

The Damang Gold Mine, located in Ghana’s Western Region, has long been a strategic asset in the nation’s gold mining sector. However, beyond its economic significance, Damang has become the center of legal disputes and political maneuvering, particularly in relation to Engineers and Planners (E&P), a Ghanaian-owned company, and its mineral concessions. The latest threats of legal action from the NPP micro minority, led by Annor Dompreh, mirror past disputes where Ghanaian companies found themselves at odds with state regulatory decisions that favored foreign firms, notably Chinese entities.The intersection of legal precedents, economic interests, and political motivations in Ghana’s mining…

play videoA bird’s eye view shows the majestic Assin Kushea Palace surrounded by lush greenery Ghana is home to what is regarded the largest palace in the sub-region of West Africa. Located in a community not so popular, except for this palace that sits on a 7.4 acres of land, and for the fact that Assin Kushea – the town, is the cleanest place in Ghana. Nana Prah Agyensaim VI, the Paramount Chief of the Owirenkyi Traditional Area, where it is located, knew one thing from the moment he ascended the throne: he could not match up to other paramountcies,…

The Minority in Parliament says the government’s sudden suspension of the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy, known as the Dumsor Levy, is a clear sign of “trial-and-error governance.” Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, in a statement on Saturday, June 14, described the indefinite postponement of the fuel tax as “chaotic” and “hypocritical.” He said the government’s actions expose a fundamental lack of planning and consultation. “This eleventh-hour U-turn shows that the law was passed without proper engagement. It’s a complete embarrassment,” the Effutu MP said. The Ghana Revenue Authority had announced a delay in implementing the levy, which was…

To:His Excellency John Dramani MahamaPresident of the Republic of GhanaOffice of the President, AccraCC: Minister for Roads & Highways Minister for Defense Minister for Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation Parliament of Ghana Policy and Development Think Tanks Media Houses Your Excellency, the Time for Action is Now Ghana stands at a critical juncture—our road infrastructure deficit is stalling national productivity, regional trade, and economic mobility. Despite billions in annual budget allocations, the challenge persists. The failure of private road contractors to deliver in high-risk terrains highlights an undeniable truth: Ghana needs a specialized, strategic intervention that is cost-effective, results-driven, and…

John Dramani Mahama is the President of Ghana President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to end the persistent power cuts in parts of the North East Region, assuring residents that his government will stabilize electricity supply as part of a broader energy reform agenda.Speaking at a durbar of chiefs and people during his ‘Thank You Tour’ of the region on Saturday, Mahama emphasized the urgent need to address power challenges affecting homes, schools, and small businesses.“We cannot industrialise without electricity. We cannot learn, we cannot work or innovate in the dark,” he said.“I’m aware of the persistent power fluctuations in…

As the world honours fathers on Father’s Day this Sunday, it’s also worth reflecting on stories from men who, for reasons beyond their control, were denied the chance to become fathers.These reflections are not merely drawn from abstract surveys, but from real-life experiences shared by men within the “brotherhood” circles and on various social media platforms — stories I have personally monitored and compiled over time. From heartbreak to frustration, these men reveal a side of the fatherhood conversation that is rarely acknowledged. Here is a compelling look at ten kinds of women who, knowingly or unknowingly, contributed to this…

Wisdom Aditse, Head of the Tema Metropolitan Environmental Health Department, has cautioned the public against purchasing and consuming food exposed to contamination. Mr Aditse urged residents to be more vigilant about where and how their food is prepared and sold, noting that many food vendors continue to disregard basic hygiene standards, putting the health of consumers at risk. He offered the advice during a sensitisation programme for stakeholders on the Mpox, and cholera outbreaks organised by the Tema Metro Health Directorate.  He explained that while some food vendors try to maintain hygiene, a significant number fail to follow the rules and regulations…