Accra, Ghana-Security at the Weija constituency in Greater Accra was beefed up in this presidential run-off to ensure maximum protection for voters and electoral materials.
The constituency, the largest in the region has over the years been considered as a conflict prone area. The security beef up was therefore as a result of the general complaint that characterized the December 7, general election.
As of 0618 hours,at New-life polling centre with polling station number C013204B, there was a long queue including stones to represent some persons.
The centre had polling agents for the two contesting political parties.
Mr Philip Yawson, Presiding Officer said that about 1,566 registered voters were expected to cast their vote, but the centre has recorded 30 transfers.
However, he said, the checklist (containing the names of all voters in station) and the list for special voters were absent.
At the New Gbawe D/A primary school around 0705 hours, only 14 people had cast their votes.
Mr Jerry Anku, Presiding Officer said all voting materials were set and 1,981 voters were expected to cast their ballot.
The Gbawe Presbyterian polling centre with number CO13213, had also recorded 100 voters as of 0722 when reporters arrived there.
Mr Daniel Offei, Presiding Officer said about 2,091 are expected to vote.
At the Amicin Video centre, 68 had cast their ballot as of 0742 hours.
Mr Ajavon Gabriel, Presiding Officer said 1,292 people were expected to vote at the centre with polling number CO13211.
At 0814, at the Mallam Old Presbyterian polling centre, 198 voters had exercised their franchise.
Evans Adu, Presiding Officer who gave the centre number as CO13203 said 1,823 electorates are to vote.
The Rehabilitation poling centre at Weija had also recorded 214 votes out of 1,365 voters in the register as at 0840 hours when I got there,.
Presiding officer, Mr Johnson Ford Appiah Fordjour said that the voting was proceeding well and there had not been any special occurrence.
He envisaged that the turnout was likely to be higher than the December 7 polls.
Some Christians from the Winners Chapel, Ghana, Christian Worship centre and the Jesus House International Ministry did not relent on worshipping their Maker during the early hours of the day to enable them cast their votes.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Voting in Presidential Election Runoff begins
Accra, Ghana-Voting started throughout Ghana at 0700 hours, Sunday, to elect the third President of the Fourth Republic with long queues of voters waiting patiently to cast their votes. Polling officially ends at 1700 hours. All voters in queues before 1700 hours would be allowed to vote. The security details at the polling centres are expected to join the end of the queues when it is 1700hours to ensure that nobody joins it after the close of the polls.Counting would start at the polling centres after the last voter has cast his or her vote. The first results are expected late on Sunday night or early Monday morning. The Electoral Commission expects the result to be declared within 48 hours.Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC), in an interview said voting procedures remained the same. "The voting pattern is transparent and at each point of the voting process there is an identifiable glaring system, which would make it impossible for any one to cheat. "The result of any polling station where the number of votes cast would exceed the number of registered voters and those who have lawfully transferred their votes would be cancelled.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Let us continue to pray for a peaceful run-off-Minister
Accra, Ghana - Reverend Oduro Awisi, the New Achimota District Minister of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana on Sunday called on Ghanaians to continue to pray for a peaceful run-off on December 28.
He noted that it is God who appoints a leader adding, "We need not fight and insult any individual or a party just because we want a leader".
Speaking at the district’s first session of thanksgiving service, Rev. Oduro urged Ghanaians and eligible voters in particular to abide by the electoral rules in order not to mar the process.
"Both the NDC and the NPP presidential candidates are Ghanaians, and any one who virtually wins the run-off should be accepted and supported to lead the nation in its development agenda," he added.
Rev Oduro said the progress of the nation demanded that all the citizenry irrespective of their political affiliation had contributed their quota to the development process, adding; "leaders without our support can not ensure any effective work".
He commended the Electoral Commission for the work done so far and urged it to continue in that regard to sustain the peace the nation was enjoying.
He noted that it is God who appoints a leader adding, "We need not fight and insult any individual or a party just because we want a leader".
Speaking at the district’s first session of thanksgiving service, Rev. Oduro urged Ghanaians and eligible voters in particular to abide by the electoral rules in order not to mar the process.
"Both the NDC and the NPP presidential candidates are Ghanaians, and any one who virtually wins the run-off should be accepted and supported to lead the nation in its development agenda," he added.
Rev Oduro said the progress of the nation demanded that all the citizenry irrespective of their political affiliation had contributed their quota to the development process, adding; "leaders without our support can not ensure any effective work".
He commended the Electoral Commission for the work done so far and urged it to continue in that regard to sustain the peace the nation was enjoying.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Ghana sets for run-off
Accra, Ghana-Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, on Wednesday announced the results of the 2008 Presidential election declaring that there will be a run-off on December 28 between Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Prof. John Evans Atta Mills of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
He said this was because none of the eight candidates who contested Sunday’s election won more than 50 per cent of the votes to be declared winner.
Giving details of the votes, he said Nana Akufo-Addo had 4,159,439 votes representing 49.13 per cent while Prof. John Evans Atta-Mills of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) obtained 4,056,634 representing 47.92 per cent.
The People’s National Convention (PNC) represented by Dr Edward Mahama had 73,494 representing 0.87 per cent; Emmanuel Ansah Antwi of the Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) had 27,889 representing 0.33 per cent and Thomas Ward-Brew of the Democratic Popular Party (DPP) had 8,653 representing 0.10 per cent.
Others are the Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) had 113,494 representing 1.34 per cent; Mr Kwabena Adjei of the Reformed Patriotic Democrats (RPD) had 6,889 representing 0.08 per cent while Mr Kwesi Amoafo Yeboah, the independent candidate chalked 19,342 votes representing 0.23 per cent.
Dr Afari Gyan pointed out that the results announced excluded that of Akwatia Constituency in the Eastern region explaining that some ballot boxes where taken away from the voting premises during the exercise.
He said total valid votes were 8,465,834 while the total votes cast were 8,671,272 out of which 205,438 representing 2.4 per cent were rejected.
He said 12,472,758 people registered for the polls. Voter turn out was 69.52 per cent.
He said this was because none of the eight candidates who contested Sunday’s election won more than 50 per cent of the votes to be declared winner.
Giving details of the votes, he said Nana Akufo-Addo had 4,159,439 votes representing 49.13 per cent while Prof. John Evans Atta-Mills of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) obtained 4,056,634 representing 47.92 per cent.
The People’s National Convention (PNC) represented by Dr Edward Mahama had 73,494 representing 0.87 per cent; Emmanuel Ansah Antwi of the Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) had 27,889 representing 0.33 per cent and Thomas Ward-Brew of the Democratic Popular Party (DPP) had 8,653 representing 0.10 per cent.
Others are the Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) had 113,494 representing 1.34 per cent; Mr Kwabena Adjei of the Reformed Patriotic Democrats (RPD) had 6,889 representing 0.08 per cent while Mr Kwesi Amoafo Yeboah, the independent candidate chalked 19,342 votes representing 0.23 per cent.
Dr Afari Gyan pointed out that the results announced excluded that of Akwatia Constituency in the Eastern region explaining that some ballot boxes where taken away from the voting premises during the exercise.
He said total valid votes were 8,465,834 while the total votes cast were 8,671,272 out of which 205,438 representing 2.4 per cent were rejected.
He said 12,472,758 people registered for the polls. Voter turn out was 69.52 per cent.
AVRL to retrieve arrears
Accra, Ghana – The management of Aqua Vitens Rand Limited, (AVRL) said it had embarked on a massive mobilisation exercise, to retrieve all arrears owed the company.
“Customers are informed that, the company will not leave any stone unturned to enable it realise its set objectives”.
A statement signed by Stanley Mantey, Communications Manager said customers who had not yet paid their bills for months are to pay to avoid any disconnection or prosecution.
It said there were also packages all who divulge information on unscrupulous citizens who indulge in malpractices like illegal connection, by passes, self reconnection and the use of in-line suction pumps.
The statement said the AVRL, had established a call centre and introduced a Toll Free number 0800 40 000 for customers to report all malpractices against the company and to make enquiries and complaints.
GNA
“Customers are informed that, the company will not leave any stone unturned to enable it realise its set objectives”.
A statement signed by Stanley Mantey, Communications Manager said customers who had not yet paid their bills for months are to pay to avoid any disconnection or prosecution.
It said there were also packages all who divulge information on unscrupulous citizens who indulge in malpractices like illegal connection, by passes, self reconnection and the use of in-line suction pumps.
The statement said the AVRL, had established a call centre and introduced a Toll Free number 0800 40 000 for customers to report all malpractices against the company and to make enquiries and complaints.
GNA
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Christian Council commends Ghanaians on peaceful elections
Accra, Ghana - The Christian Council of Ghana on Tuesday commended the Electoral Commission and all Ghanaians as well as development partners for their contributions towards a peaceful general election.
"Our observers reported a peaceful conduct of the election in most of the polling stations. It is important to also state that some stations did not have security, nevertheless, the process was smooth with no incidence of violence".
Rev Dr Fred Deegbe, General Secretary of the Council in a statement signed to the GNA asked Ghanaians to wait for the declaration of the results by the EC adding, “we wish to appeal to the political parties to refrain from holding press conferences on unauthenticated results while issuing threats to the electoral commission".
He mentioned some activities undertaken by the council to promote peaceful elections as a week-long fasting and prayer session, production of video clip on peace, training of 300 observers, and a presidential forum among others.
Dr Deegbe also acknowledged the contributions of other civil society organization in drumming hope the message of a peaceful.
The council said although the EC and NCCE embarked on voter education, there were few problems associated with voter registration, exhibition, cleaning of register, transfer and proxy arrangement were encountered. “Our observers noticed a few irregularities such as unsealed ballot boxes, and giving both the presidential and the parliamentary ballot papers at the same time. There were instances where presiding
"Our observers reported a peaceful conduct of the election in most of the polling stations. It is important to also state that some stations did not have security, nevertheless, the process was smooth with no incidence of violence".
Rev Dr Fred Deegbe, General Secretary of the Council in a statement signed to the GNA asked Ghanaians to wait for the declaration of the results by the EC adding, “we wish to appeal to the political parties to refrain from holding press conferences on unauthenticated results while issuing threats to the electoral commission".
He mentioned some activities undertaken by the council to promote peaceful elections as a week-long fasting and prayer session, production of video clip on peace, training of 300 observers, and a presidential forum among others.
Dr Deegbe also acknowledged the contributions of other civil society organization in drumming hope the message of a peaceful.
The council said although the EC and NCCE embarked on voter education, there were few problems associated with voter registration, exhibition, cleaning of register, transfer and proxy arrangement were encountered. “Our observers noticed a few irregularities such as unsealed ballot boxes, and giving both the presidential and the parliamentary ballot papers at the same time. There were instances where presiding
Independent candidate wins in asante-bekwai
Accra-Ghana- Mr Joe Osei-Owusu, the Independent Parliamentary Candidate polled 34,700 votes to unseat the incumbent NPP, Mr Ignatius Kofi Poku Adusei who had 8,560 votes in the parliamentary elections for the Asante-Bekwai Constituency.The Bekwai Constituency was considered as one of the flashpoints following series of clashes between the supporters of the independent candidate and the NPP candidate.Mr Osei-Owusu lost by one vote to Mr Poku Adusei after he garnered 69 votes as against 70 by the latter in the Bekwai NPP primary, a situation which sparked wide spread controversy and series of confrontations among their supporters.Political analysts had projected a keen contest between the two candidates and it was no wonder that the area was one of the closely monitored constituencies in this year's elections. As the results of the voting trickled in, supporters of Mr Osei-Owusu, popularly known as 'Joe Wise', who were joyous, besieged some principal streets in the constituency and chanted songs amidst brass band music."I am overwhelmed with joy and do not know what to do at this moment," an elated Campaign Team Manager of the newly-elected MP, Mr Patrick Adu-Gyamfi told the Ghana News Agency at Bekwai. He thanked God for the victory and commended the numerous supporters for not letting Mr Osei-Owusu down.Mr Adu-Gyamfi attributed their massive victory to the comprehensive and good campaign messages delivered by the independent candidate during his campaign tour, stressing that the newly-elected MP would deliver on his promises now that he had been given the nod. Meanwhile, the Bekwai Constituency was calm with people going about their normal activities at the time of filing this report.
Presidential results to be made public soon
The Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, on Monday gave the assurance that the results of the presidential election would be made public soon.The EC chairman, who is the Returning Officer of the presidential election, said in a statement in Accra that this would be done after they were received and authenticated at the EC headquarters.“It is premature at this time for anybody to be talking about delay in releasing results or about a winner of the election.“I sincerely hope that politicians, journalists and commentators will make mature and informed statements in relation to the election results.”Dr Afari-Gyan said in this regard, he considered it to be unprincipled for any person to regard the same action to be imprudent when it is done by someone else; but alright when it is done by himself or herself.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Weija constituency needs security beef-up
The Weija Constituency in the Greater Accra Region on Sunday witnessed low security presence at most of the polling stations visited by the Ghana News Agency.
While few of the stations: Mallam Old Presbyterian polling station, TB Zongo, New Life "A" and "B", Presbyterian Church, Gbewa had immigration officers in charge of security, places like, Ablekuma Anglican School, Omankope among others lacked any form of security.
Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, Member of Parliament for the area who cast her vote at exactly 7:20 hours at Presbyterian Church, Gbewa expressed worry at the security situation, "a large constituency such as this, needed maximum security to ensure orderliness".
Meanwhile a scuffle ensued between the MP and the NDC party agent who wanted to prevent the incumbent from voting due to a transfer of vote system, which according to the party agent did not allow the MP to vote for the Parliamentary.
There was also late voting at Akwasa No. 1 and Ayigbe Town due to the delay of voting materials. The officer in charge who pleaded anonymity said the station needed to organize an emergency recruitment to make up for most of the polling station attendants who failed to turn up.
The atmosphere at most of the stations visited were however peaceful. At 0615, when the GNA got to the Mallam Old Presbyterian church with polling station No C013203, there was a long queue of voters ready to exercise their civic responsibility.
Party agents for the NPP, the NDC and the CPP were already in attendance.
Mr Philip Yawson, Presiding Officer told the GNA that all voting materials were ready for a smooth take-off. Ms Berikesu Alima, an 18 year old expressed her excitement for the opportunity to vote for the first time.
Ms Dina Ocansey, who got to the station at 12 midnight said she wanted to save herself the stress of queuing for a long period.
The situation was not different at the Gbewa Presbyterian church where only 39 people had cast their vote at about 0715 although 2116 registered voters were expected to vote.
Mr Daniel Danquah-Offei, Presiding Officer who gave the polling station number as C013213, promised a smooth electoral process.
The Amazing Video Centre with polling number C3211 also in the constituency had registered 59 voters at about 0740 when the GNA visited. Exercising the civic duty however, did not stop the Light House and the Church of Christ in the constituency from worshiping their maker.
While few of the stations: Mallam Old Presbyterian polling station, TB Zongo, New Life "A" and "B", Presbyterian Church, Gbewa had immigration officers in charge of security, places like, Ablekuma Anglican School, Omankope among others lacked any form of security.
Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, Member of Parliament for the area who cast her vote at exactly 7:20 hours at Presbyterian Church, Gbewa expressed worry at the security situation, "a large constituency such as this, needed maximum security to ensure orderliness".
Meanwhile a scuffle ensued between the MP and the NDC party agent who wanted to prevent the incumbent from voting due to a transfer of vote system, which according to the party agent did not allow the MP to vote for the Parliamentary.
There was also late voting at Akwasa No. 1 and Ayigbe Town due to the delay of voting materials. The officer in charge who pleaded anonymity said the station needed to organize an emergency recruitment to make up for most of the polling station attendants who failed to turn up.
The atmosphere at most of the stations visited were however peaceful. At 0615, when the GNA got to the Mallam Old Presbyterian church with polling station No C013203, there was a long queue of voters ready to exercise their civic responsibility.
Party agents for the NPP, the NDC and the CPP were already in attendance.
Mr Philip Yawson, Presiding Officer told the GNA that all voting materials were ready for a smooth take-off. Ms Berikesu Alima, an 18 year old expressed her excitement for the opportunity to vote for the first time.
Ms Dina Ocansey, who got to the station at 12 midnight said she wanted to save herself the stress of queuing for a long period.
The situation was not different at the Gbewa Presbyterian church where only 39 people had cast their vote at about 0715 although 2116 registered voters were expected to vote.
Mr Daniel Danquah-Offei, Presiding Officer who gave the polling station number as C013213, promised a smooth electoral process.
The Amazing Video Centre with polling number C3211 also in the constituency had registered 59 voters at about 0740 when the GNA visited. Exercising the civic duty however, did not stop the Light House and the Church of Christ in the constituency from worshiping their maker.
Accept election results in good fate
Rev Dr Lawrenec Tetteh, President of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach on Sunday said irrespective of the outcome of the election results, losers must learn to accept defeat and put their weights behind the winner.
"I want to remind voters, the candidates for parliamentary seats and particularly the contestants to the presidency that Ghana is bigger than any of them. Their attitude therefore should be the preservation of the sanctity and sovereignty of the nation".
Rev Dr Tetteh in a goodwill message also congratulated Ghanaians for their sense of maturity, patience and tolerance through out the electioneering campaign adding, "I wish you well and the blessings of God as you go to the polls on Sunday to cast your votes".
He lauded the presidential aspirants for the respect and dignified manner in which they had conducted themselves and prayed that the same would prevail after the declaration of results. "In any event, there is no winner or loser but Ghana ".
Rev Dr Tetteh called on Ghanaians to be mindful of Ghana’s modest achievements which had received international recognition.
"We need therefore to preserve and improve upon the image that we have built for ourselves as a very peaceful and tolerant nation, especially when we have become torchbearers in a continent that is beset with all kinds of political, economic and social problems.", he added.
Rev Dr Tetteh called on ministers of the gospel and all religious persuasions to continue to pray and intercede for the nation during and after elections.
They must educate their members to appreciate the fact that kings are enthroned by God and therefore welcome whoever emerged as a winner".
"I want to remind voters, the candidates for parliamentary seats and particularly the contestants to the presidency that Ghana is bigger than any of them. Their attitude therefore should be the preservation of the sanctity and sovereignty of the nation".
Rev Dr Tetteh in a goodwill message also congratulated Ghanaians for their sense of maturity, patience and tolerance through out the electioneering campaign adding, "I wish you well and the blessings of God as you go to the polls on Sunday to cast your votes".
He lauded the presidential aspirants for the respect and dignified manner in which they had conducted themselves and prayed that the same would prevail after the declaration of results. "In any event, there is no winner or loser but Ghana ".
Rev Dr Tetteh called on Ghanaians to be mindful of Ghana’s modest achievements which had received international recognition.
"We need therefore to preserve and improve upon the image that we have built for ourselves as a very peaceful and tolerant nation, especially when we have become torchbearers in a continent that is beset with all kinds of political, economic and social problems.", he added.
Rev Dr Tetteh called on ministers of the gospel and all religious persuasions to continue to pray and intercede for the nation during and after elections.
They must educate their members to appreciate the fact that kings are enthroned by God and therefore welcome whoever emerged as a winner".
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
three districts get potable water
Aveyime (V/R), Ghana– In line with meeting government’s Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy and the Millennium Development Goals, it had provided an 11 million dollar water supply system for three district in the North Tongu District of the Volta Region.
The three District Water Supply projects which would serve the potable water need of 108 communities with a population of 120,000 was co-funded by the Danish International Development Agency and the Department for International Development.
Shiekh IC Quaye, Greater Accra Regional Minister who commissioned the project said government wanted to find lasting solutions to the water problems in the area, “accordingly, feasibility studies started in 2002 under the small towns’ water scheme for surface water.”
“This project brings to an end the suffering of our people who have suffered the severe lack of potable water over the years” he said.
Sheikh Quaye noted that government was committed to reducing poverty and improving the health and living conditions of people through the provision of water and sanitation facilities especially in the rural communities.
He urged all households to take advantage of the project, “construct appropriate household places of convenience and avoid poor environmental practices which will take away the benefits of safe water supply”.
Dr Philips Gyau-Boakye, Chief Executive Officer, Community Water and Sanitation Agency said it was the single largest rural water supply project facilitated by the agency since 1998.
He said it was conceived out of the difficult hydro-geological conditions in the Accra Plains.
Dr Gyau-Boakye noted that to ensure sustainability, the project would be under the management of the Water and Sanitation Development Board through a private operator and urged beneficiaries to take good care of the system.
Mr Minta Aboagye, Director Water Resources of the Sector Ministry urged the communities to pay service charges on time.
Mr Lars Moller Larsen, Councellor, Royal Danish Embassy said water and sanitation underpinned other targets of the MDGs adding, improved access to safe water supply can also increase economic well-being at the households level”.
“The ultimate goal of our joint efforts here is to enable poor people to lead healthier lives through improved management of water resources”.
The three district water project consists: an intake structure, treatment plant, pump house, clear water well, reservoirs and transmission and distribution networks.
The three District Water Supply projects which would serve the potable water need of 108 communities with a population of 120,000 was co-funded by the Danish International Development Agency and the Department for International Development.
Shiekh IC Quaye, Greater Accra Regional Minister who commissioned the project said government wanted to find lasting solutions to the water problems in the area, “accordingly, feasibility studies started in 2002 under the small towns’ water scheme for surface water.”
“This project brings to an end the suffering of our people who have suffered the severe lack of potable water over the years” he said.
Sheikh Quaye noted that government was committed to reducing poverty and improving the health and living conditions of people through the provision of water and sanitation facilities especially in the rural communities.
He urged all households to take advantage of the project, “construct appropriate household places of convenience and avoid poor environmental practices which will take away the benefits of safe water supply”.
Dr Philips Gyau-Boakye, Chief Executive Officer, Community Water and Sanitation Agency said it was the single largest rural water supply project facilitated by the agency since 1998.
He said it was conceived out of the difficult hydro-geological conditions in the Accra Plains.
Dr Gyau-Boakye noted that to ensure sustainability, the project would be under the management of the Water and Sanitation Development Board through a private operator and urged beneficiaries to take good care of the system.
Mr Minta Aboagye, Director Water Resources of the Sector Ministry urged the communities to pay service charges on time.
Mr Lars Moller Larsen, Councellor, Royal Danish Embassy said water and sanitation underpinned other targets of the MDGs adding, improved access to safe water supply can also increase economic well-being at the households level”.
“The ultimate goal of our joint efforts here is to enable poor people to lead healthier lives through improved management of water resources”.
The three district water project consists: an intake structure, treatment plant, pump house, clear water well, reservoirs and transmission and distribution networks.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Police will not carry weapons
Accra, Ghana – The Ghana Police Service on Saturday stated that security personnel policing Polling Stations on Election Day – December 7 would not handle weapons at the duty post.
However, special Rapid Operation Team would patrol the metropolis especially identified flash-points across the country to deal with any eventualities, Superintendent Francis Aryee, Special Operations Assistant National Police headquarters stated at a day’s training seminar for Journalists at the Ghana News Agency
The seminar sponsored by MTN leading mobile communication operator in the country was on the theme: “The Role of GNA in Enhancing the Credibility of Election 2008” was attended by regional, district and head office staff and management.
Other topics discussed includes; “Dos and Don’ts at Polling Station,” “Interaction with Security at Polling Station,” “Operating Within the Confines of the Law,” “Techniques of Election Reporting,” “Effective Ways of Sending Report From Rural Area,” and “Content of a GNA Story on Polling Day”.
Superintendent Aryee said the officers at the Polling Station would be equipped with communication gargets to enable the send distress calls for assistance; stressing: “Security Personnel are ready to play effective and professional policing duties before, during and after the elections to ensure that Ghana remains united.
“We will not accept any food, money or any other form of provision outside the police rationing for the day. We are there to protect electoral material, officials, the voter and the general public,” he said.
Mr Baldwin Freeman, Principal Electoral Officer, Electoral Commission of Ghana said eligible voters were supposed to dip their index finger into the indelible ink as against ticking by an electoral officer which would make it more visible to avoid multiple registration.
He said all the political parties at a meeting with the EC agreed to the use of either the right or left index finger by the electorate as a mark of identification, “The current change was to make the ink more visible to check unscrupulous individuals who might want to tamper with electoral processes.”
Mr Freeman also called on journalist covering the elections to be circumspective and cooperate with election officials to ensure smooth running of the process.
Nana Apau Dua, General Manager, GNA said the agency reminded journalists of the agency’s core value: speed, accuracy and fairness.
He said the agency would not countenance ‘careless’ mistakes on the part of reporters and urged them to remain neutral in their reportage adding, “do not be carried away by emotions or any other thing to do otherwise”.
Nana Dua also called on regional and district managers of the agency to endeavour to send stories on time.
Mr Boadi Boakye-Dankwa, Supervising Chief Editor, GNA noted that the agency was a world-class medium and therefore needed to meet both local and international expectation especially on election coverage. Mr Mawusi Afele, News Editor, GNA cautioned journalists, “do not pretend to know everything, please cross-check your information especially on allegations of conflicts and speculations”.
However, special Rapid Operation Team would patrol the metropolis especially identified flash-points across the country to deal with any eventualities, Superintendent Francis Aryee, Special Operations Assistant National Police headquarters stated at a day’s training seminar for Journalists at the Ghana News Agency
The seminar sponsored by MTN leading mobile communication operator in the country was on the theme: “The Role of GNA in Enhancing the Credibility of Election 2008” was attended by regional, district and head office staff and management.
Other topics discussed includes; “Dos and Don’ts at Polling Station,” “Interaction with Security at Polling Station,” “Operating Within the Confines of the Law,” “Techniques of Election Reporting,” “Effective Ways of Sending Report From Rural Area,” and “Content of a GNA Story on Polling Day”.
Superintendent Aryee said the officers at the Polling Station would be equipped with communication gargets to enable the send distress calls for assistance; stressing: “Security Personnel are ready to play effective and professional policing duties before, during and after the elections to ensure that Ghana remains united.
“We will not accept any food, money or any other form of provision outside the police rationing for the day. We are there to protect electoral material, officials, the voter and the general public,” he said.
Mr Baldwin Freeman, Principal Electoral Officer, Electoral Commission of Ghana said eligible voters were supposed to dip their index finger into the indelible ink as against ticking by an electoral officer which would make it more visible to avoid multiple registration.
He said all the political parties at a meeting with the EC agreed to the use of either the right or left index finger by the electorate as a mark of identification, “The current change was to make the ink more visible to check unscrupulous individuals who might want to tamper with electoral processes.”
Mr Freeman also called on journalist covering the elections to be circumspective and cooperate with election officials to ensure smooth running of the process.
Nana Apau Dua, General Manager, GNA said the agency reminded journalists of the agency’s core value: speed, accuracy and fairness.
He said the agency would not countenance ‘careless’ mistakes on the part of reporters and urged them to remain neutral in their reportage adding, “do not be carried away by emotions or any other thing to do otherwise”.
Nana Dua also called on regional and district managers of the agency to endeavour to send stories on time.
Mr Boadi Boakye-Dankwa, Supervising Chief Editor, GNA noted that the agency was a world-class medium and therefore needed to meet both local and international expectation especially on election coverage. Mr Mawusi Afele, News Editor, GNA cautioned journalists, “do not pretend to know everything, please cross-check your information especially on allegations of conflicts and speculations”.
In-coming government urged to adress issues
Accra, Accra, Ghana - Various non-governmental and civil society organisations on Friday tasked heads of political parties to address the numerous problems bordering on health, education and water and sanitation when given the mandate in this year's presidential elections. At a forum organised by the Integrated Social Development Centre (ISODEC) to engage the representatives of the four major political parties on these essential services, the organisations called for more access to essential services as enshrined in local and international agreements.The forum was on the theme; "Universal Provisioning - Keep Essential Services out of General Agreements in Trade Services and Economic Partnership Agreements."Ms. Hannah Tetteh, Director of Communications, National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Mr Charles Enninful, member of the Manifesto Planning Committee, Convention People's Party (CPP), who deliberated on the issues, spoke about the plans put forward by their respective parties to improve upon the lives of the people.The NDC noted that investing in people as stipulated in their manifesto meant the provision of health care facilities and upgrading of some health institutions such as Tamale and Effia-Nkwanta hospitals, ensuring one time premium on the National Health Insurance and paying more attention to Traditional Medicine Practice. The CPP re-stated that their "150 days" fast track agenda was to clean-up the country.On water, the CPP pledged to bring on board all stakeholders to ensure effective water delivery system while the NDC suggested a water policy to ensure effective management."We believe water should be managed by government," the NDC said and proposed a water fund to cater for the needs of consumers. The CPP said it would ensure an education settlement process where schooling would be free, continuous and compulsory and the establishment of a Science and Technology Ministry. The NDC said provision of teachers' accommodation, higher salaries and access to training were high on the agenda of the party with regard to education.Mrs. Rosemond Kumah, Coordinator, ISODEC, said the group would continue to lobby government to take its responsibility of making available such services to it citizenry. She said the move was also to impress on government to come out with pro-poor national budgets and provide needed resources to cater for the gaps in their provision. Mrs Kumah said the provision of social services like education, health, housing, water and sanitation among others would enhance social protection and economic growth
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Endow children with ICT Skills-Education Minister
Accra, Ghana -Professor dominic Fobih, Minister of Education on Thursday noted need for school children to be endowed with skills especially in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in order for them to march up with their contemporaries on the other side of the globe.
He said with the current trend of modernity, quality education to produce professionals and scholars for the country's development required all necessary infrastructure to ensure holistic development.
Prof Fobih said this when he commisssioned a GHC 48, 500 computer science laboratory for the Kwashieman Cluster of Shchools to enhance the ICT cacpabilities of the pupils.
The project was the brain-child of Mr Kwamena Bartels, Member of Parliament, Ablekuma North Constitutency and would serve the ICT need of the 28 schools within the cluster.
He said government was committed to strengthen the education sector through various reforms and initiatives, "The every child to a lap top programme is now on pilot basis and would be extended to cover the entire country in no time".
Mr Kwamena Bartels, MP for the area said the project demonstrated his commitment to ensure the development of education in the constitutency.The MP also provided 5,000 pieces of school uniforms at a cost of GHC 28, 350 to needy but brilliant students.
He mentioned some of the development projects undertaken in the constitutency as electrifictaion, health and sanitation, construction and rehabilitation of roads and drainage and human resource development.
Mr Bartels noted that to make education accessible, dual desk have been provided for the school while some selected ones were benefiting from the school feeding programme.
He said with the current trend of modernity, quality education to produce professionals and scholars for the country's development required all necessary infrastructure to ensure holistic development.
Prof Fobih said this when he commisssioned a GHC 48, 500 computer science laboratory for the Kwashieman Cluster of Shchools to enhance the ICT cacpabilities of the pupils.
The project was the brain-child of Mr Kwamena Bartels, Member of Parliament, Ablekuma North Constitutency and would serve the ICT need of the 28 schools within the cluster.
He said government was committed to strengthen the education sector through various reforms and initiatives, "The every child to a lap top programme is now on pilot basis and would be extended to cover the entire country in no time".
Mr Kwamena Bartels, MP for the area said the project demonstrated his commitment to ensure the development of education in the constitutency.The MP also provided 5,000 pieces of school uniforms at a cost of GHC 28, 350 to needy but brilliant students.
He mentioned some of the development projects undertaken in the constitutency as electrifictaion, health and sanitation, construction and rehabilitation of roads and drainage and human resource development.
Mr Bartels noted that to make education accessible, dual desk have been provided for the school while some selected ones were benefiting from the school feeding programme.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Take children's education serious
Accra, Ghana - Parents have been advised not to underestimate the importance of quality education for their children during their formative years.
“The role played by pre-school education in shaping the formative years of the child, especially in developing their capabilities and helping them to overcome initial educational challenges is very crucial”.
Nii Okaija Dinsey, Metro Director of Education said at the launch of the 40th anniversary of the Ghana Education Service Model Nursery School under the theme: Building the Foundation Blocks for the Next Generation’.
He noted that children needed to be adequately prepared to develop specific sets of moral and academic skills and abilities at the pre-school level before they graduated to the basic school.
Nii Dinsey said: “Research has shown that children who participate in high quality, model pre-school programmes are more advanced in key areas of development such as language, literacy and reasoning skills”.
He said government recognized the crucial role played by pre-school, “It is against this background that it has decided to make kindergarten education part of the universal, free and compulsory basic education structure as indicated in the Education Reform”.
Nii Dinsey said some modalities for the realization of the objectives included the supply of text books, syllabi and other logistics to schools and the expansion of kindergarten facilities at the district assemblies.
Mrs Alberta Appietu-Ankrah, Headmistress of the school said the school had adopted improved teaching and learning methods coupled with modern infrastructure to ensure effective academic exercise.
She announced that quiz competition and seminars would be held as part of the activities to mark the 40 years anniversary celebration.
The GES Model School was established in 1969 to serve as a demonstration facility for the training of pre-school teachers.
“The role played by pre-school education in shaping the formative years of the child, especially in developing their capabilities and helping them to overcome initial educational challenges is very crucial”.
Nii Okaija Dinsey, Metro Director of Education said at the launch of the 40th anniversary of the Ghana Education Service Model Nursery School under the theme: Building the Foundation Blocks for the Next Generation’.
He noted that children needed to be adequately prepared to develop specific sets of moral and academic skills and abilities at the pre-school level before they graduated to the basic school.
Nii Dinsey said: “Research has shown that children who participate in high quality, model pre-school programmes are more advanced in key areas of development such as language, literacy and reasoning skills”.
He said government recognized the crucial role played by pre-school, “It is against this background that it has decided to make kindergarten education part of the universal, free and compulsory basic education structure as indicated in the Education Reform”.
Nii Dinsey said some modalities for the realization of the objectives included the supply of text books, syllabi and other logistics to schools and the expansion of kindergarten facilities at the district assemblies.
Mrs Alberta Appietu-Ankrah, Headmistress of the school said the school had adopted improved teaching and learning methods coupled with modern infrastructure to ensure effective academic exercise.
She announced that quiz competition and seminars would be held as part of the activities to mark the 40 years anniversary celebration.
The GES Model School was established in 1969 to serve as a demonstration facility for the training of pre-school teachers.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Ghana goes to peace camp
Accra, Ghana- A 10-member team would leave the country on November 22 to represent Ghana in the Second International Generation for Peace Camp in Amman, Jordan. The programme sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme together with Edikanfo Progressive Foundation, an NGO, would also bring together other delegates from Uganda, Sudan, Lebanon and Palestine, among others, to be trained in designing peace proposals as well as implementing them in their home countries. Mr. Patrick Arthur, Director of Communications, Edikanfo Foundation, said the team would use a series of sporting sessions, seminars, workshops, debates and role-playing to cover lessons in conflict management, leadership and project management. "These young leaders will create a global grassroots network of peace advocates and foster a more peaceful world," he added. Mr Arthur said systems and processes had also been put in place to support youth leaders to implement various projects. "Back home in Ghana, the youth will implement various projects aimed at bringing peace in conflict-prone regions in Ghana
Develop indigenous engineering capacity-Ing Akwaboah
Accra, Ghana– Mr Frederick Akwaboah, President, Ghana Institution of Engineers on Friday called for the development of indigenous engineering and technology capacity to enable Ghana to compete effectively in the global economic environment.
He said while science and engineering had contributed to the high quality of life in the developed countries, the role of engineering in developing countries was often not understood.
Mr Akwaboah who made the call when he delivered the 39th Presidential Address of the institution, said capacity building and technical expertise was therefore the key to enhancing the country’s ability to becoming economically self-sufficient.
“Ghana and other developing countries are to lift themselves out of poverty by adopting scientific and engineering approaches to accelerate socio-economic growth”, he said.
Mr Akwaboah said national development entailed the provision of the necessary social and physical facilities towards the realisation of the talents of the individual and the enhancement of the nation.
“Two areas that can likely lead to the desired economic growth and self-sufficiency in developing countries are the utilisation of advanced technologies and education that leads skilful manpower”
Mr Akwaboah relating Ghana to Asia noted that economic development in that continent was mostly attributed to their efforts to enhance the education of their indigenous engineers and technology graduates.
He said the role engineers in poverty reduction could not be under-emphasized adding, capabilities in engineering determine the ability to provide clean water, good health care, adequate infrastructure and safe foods.
On the oil exploration, he said Ghana should learn from the experiences of other countries.
“Engineers need to play a major role in the environmental issues of oil drilling to save the environment from degradation.
Training should aim at developing local competency to complement foreign personnel”.
Mr Akwaboah said such a base of qualified engineers and technologists would facilitate the infusion of foreign capital through aid funds and grow local business.
Engineering practice in Ghana however faces challenges such as the lack of protection of indigenous firms, self-worth, teamwork, slow growth of the construction industry and inadequate support and protection from government and other regulatory bodies.
Mr Akwaboah called for the passage of the engineering bill to enable the council to properly regulate and control the practice in the country.
He said while science and engineering had contributed to the high quality of life in the developed countries, the role of engineering in developing countries was often not understood.
Mr Akwaboah who made the call when he delivered the 39th Presidential Address of the institution, said capacity building and technical expertise was therefore the key to enhancing the country’s ability to becoming economically self-sufficient.
“Ghana and other developing countries are to lift themselves out of poverty by adopting scientific and engineering approaches to accelerate socio-economic growth”, he said.
Mr Akwaboah said national development entailed the provision of the necessary social and physical facilities towards the realisation of the talents of the individual and the enhancement of the nation.
“Two areas that can likely lead to the desired economic growth and self-sufficiency in developing countries are the utilisation of advanced technologies and education that leads skilful manpower”
Mr Akwaboah relating Ghana to Asia noted that economic development in that continent was mostly attributed to their efforts to enhance the education of their indigenous engineers and technology graduates.
He said the role engineers in poverty reduction could not be under-emphasized adding, capabilities in engineering determine the ability to provide clean water, good health care, adequate infrastructure and safe foods.
On the oil exploration, he said Ghana should learn from the experiences of other countries.
“Engineers need to play a major role in the environmental issues of oil drilling to save the environment from degradation.
Training should aim at developing local competency to complement foreign personnel”.
Mr Akwaboah said such a base of qualified engineers and technologists would facilitate the infusion of foreign capital through aid funds and grow local business.
Engineering practice in Ghana however faces challenges such as the lack of protection of indigenous firms, self-worth, teamwork, slow growth of the construction industry and inadequate support and protection from government and other regulatory bodies.
Mr Akwaboah called for the passage of the engineering bill to enable the council to properly regulate and control the practice in the country.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Let ensure quality justice system
Justice Georgina Theodora Wood, Chief Justice, on Tuesday underscored the need for the public to offer fair and constructive criticisms that would improve qualitative justice and the rule of law.
This, she said, would help boost public confidence in the Judiciary.
Mrs. Justice Wood made the call at the launch of a 180-page publication
“Manual on Election Adjudication in Ghana”, which was published with funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Constitutional provisions impose on the Electoral Commission and the Judiciary the onerous task to ensure that conflicts and disputes arising out of election results are amicably settled.
The CJ said, it was for this reason that the launch of the Election Manual had been timely, adding, “It is one of the important initiatives demonstrating our commitment to the rule of law and the speedy and fair adjudication of all electoral related disputes.”
She said the Manual, which was easy to read and digest, was not meant for only lawyers and judges, but for civil society as well.
“Arming ourselves with information and thereby gaining a fair appreciation of the litigation procedures will work to every stakeholder’s advantage.”
She pointed out that the collective will and effort of all Ghanaians, genuinely working together towards transparent and credible elections was absolutely essential to the success of the upcoming elections.
Mrs Justice Wood made reference to the recent election related upheavals in Kenya at the beginning of this year, and in Zimbabwe in the middle of the year.
For this reason, she gave the assurance that the Judiciary was fully prepared to handle, in an expeditious, fair and effective manner, election disputes that might inevitably end up at the courts, as a result of grievances with the electoral process.
“I thought the competent disposal of cases could be achieved through a number of interventions, including the production of an easy-to-read, concise handbook on election dispute adjudication which should serve as a helpful guide to judges, lawyers and other stakeholders to facilitate their effective participation in the process, hence the launch of this manual.”
The CJ intimated that in a week’s time, all Court of Appeal and High Court judges, as well as Registrars, private bailiffs processing companies and other key court staff would attend a two-day intensive training programme on election dispute adjudication.
This, she said, would help boost public confidence in the Judiciary.
Mrs. Justice Wood made the call at the launch of a 180-page publication
“Manual on Election Adjudication in Ghana”, which was published with funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Constitutional provisions impose on the Electoral Commission and the Judiciary the onerous task to ensure that conflicts and disputes arising out of election results are amicably settled.
The CJ said, it was for this reason that the launch of the Election Manual had been timely, adding, “It is one of the important initiatives demonstrating our commitment to the rule of law and the speedy and fair adjudication of all electoral related disputes.”
She said the Manual, which was easy to read and digest, was not meant for only lawyers and judges, but for civil society as well.
“Arming ourselves with information and thereby gaining a fair appreciation of the litigation procedures will work to every stakeholder’s advantage.”
She pointed out that the collective will and effort of all Ghanaians, genuinely working together towards transparent and credible elections was absolutely essential to the success of the upcoming elections.
Mrs Justice Wood made reference to the recent election related upheavals in Kenya at the beginning of this year, and in Zimbabwe in the middle of the year.
For this reason, she gave the assurance that the Judiciary was fully prepared to handle, in an expeditious, fair and effective manner, election disputes that might inevitably end up at the courts, as a result of grievances with the electoral process.
“I thought the competent disposal of cases could be achieved through a number of interventions, including the production of an easy-to-read, concise handbook on election dispute adjudication which should serve as a helpful guide to judges, lawyers and other stakeholders to facilitate their effective participation in the process, hence the launch of this manual.”
The CJ intimated that in a week’s time, all Court of Appeal and High Court judges, as well as Registrars, private bailiffs processing companies and other key court staff would attend a two-day intensive training programme on election dispute adjudication.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Train relevant manpower to achieve golden age of business
Accra, Ghana-Dr Augustine Quashigah, Head of the Social Studies Department, University of Education, Winneba on Saturday said achieving the golden age of business required the training of relevant manpower to develop the country’s economy.
He therefore urged institutions and government to channel more resources and facilities into business related training schools to churn out products that would help realized the dream.
Dr Quashigah said this at the launching of the seventieth anniversary of the Keta Business Senior High School, which was on the theme: ’70 years of Quality Education, Prospects, Challenges and the Way Forward’.
He called on the students to eschew laziness, indiscipline; examination mal-practices and rather become studious in the pursuit of their academic goals for a better future.
Mr Winfred Frealar Kwamivi, National President of the Old Students Association said quality education was the foundation for shaping every individual, “However quality education comes with its challenges ranging from infrastructure development and learning resources and Ketabusco is no exception”.
He noted that the school was faced with numerous challenges that were tampering teaching and learning in the school, “this long hall and the wooden structure has been our cherished mother which accommodated us over the years”.
Mr Kwamivi said despite the challenges, the school had become the centre of attraction in industry, business organizations and tertiary institutions, “this is due to the can do spirited irrespective of the lack of infrastructure”.
He urged the old students to come on board and assist the students in the provision of infrastructure for the school, “Let us re-brand our school and give the future generation a hope”.
Mr Augustine Akpakli, Headmaster of the school said though the school was the second oldest in the Volta region, it lacked adequate facilities and infrastructure that ensured quality education.
He noted that presently the school lacked a library block, typing pool, home economics block, dormitories, science laboratory, and staff bungalows adding, “The administration block which was started more than 10 years ago is still not completed”. Mr Akpakli the achievement of the school with its limited facilities should inspire all stakeholders to continue to strive hard to improve upon the facilities in the school, “The school indeed needs urgent attention”.
He therefore urged institutions and government to channel more resources and facilities into business related training schools to churn out products that would help realized the dream.
Dr Quashigah said this at the launching of the seventieth anniversary of the Keta Business Senior High School, which was on the theme: ’70 years of Quality Education, Prospects, Challenges and the Way Forward’.
He called on the students to eschew laziness, indiscipline; examination mal-practices and rather become studious in the pursuit of their academic goals for a better future.
Mr Winfred Frealar Kwamivi, National President of the Old Students Association said quality education was the foundation for shaping every individual, “However quality education comes with its challenges ranging from infrastructure development and learning resources and Ketabusco is no exception”.
He noted that the school was faced with numerous challenges that were tampering teaching and learning in the school, “this long hall and the wooden structure has been our cherished mother which accommodated us over the years”.
Mr Kwamivi said despite the challenges, the school had become the centre of attraction in industry, business organizations and tertiary institutions, “this is due to the can do spirited irrespective of the lack of infrastructure”.
He urged the old students to come on board and assist the students in the provision of infrastructure for the school, “Let us re-brand our school and give the future generation a hope”.
Mr Augustine Akpakli, Headmaster of the school said though the school was the second oldest in the Volta region, it lacked adequate facilities and infrastructure that ensured quality education.
He noted that presently the school lacked a library block, typing pool, home economics block, dormitories, science laboratory, and staff bungalows adding, “The administration block which was started more than 10 years ago is still not completed”. Mr Akpakli the achievement of the school with its limited facilities should inspire all stakeholders to continue to strive hard to improve upon the facilities in the school, “The school indeed needs urgent attention”.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
make regenerative health a subject in schools
Major Courage Quashigah (Rtd), Minister for Health on Tuesday said regenerative health education should be prominent in school syllabus to educate Ghanaians and promote a healthy lifestyle.
He noted that promoting healthy living and dieting had the potential to eliminate most of the communicable and non-communicable diseases which had burdened the country's health sector.
Major Quashigah made the call at the opening of a five-day national conference for senior nurse managers on the theme: “Regenerative Health and the Nurse Manager”.
The participants would discuss issues affecting nursing administration and ethics and introduced to other new management concepts, health policies and develop action plans for dissemination.
Major Quashigah said regenerative health and nutrition programme was initiated to change lifestyles, prevent ill-health and promote a healthy individual, adding, "this would increase work output, economic growth, reduce poverty and help achieve the Millennium Development Goals".
He said, "Nurses needed to be empowered with adequate knowledge and skills on the programme for their personal benefit and impart the knowledge to their clientele".
"We are to serve as change agents in our communities after the conference. We must experience a change in our health which would inspire those we come in contact with to adopt the regenerative health and nutrition lifestyle".
Mrs May Osae-Addae, Chief Nursing Officer of Ministry of Health, said a recent survey revealed that there was inadequate information on the programme among senior nurses, therefore the conference would provide a deeper understanding to ensure effective implementation at the regional level.
She noted that the conference would also develop strategies to ensure growth and development of nursing in the country.
Topics to be discussed would include regenerative health and nutrition, customer care, national health vision, NHIS and the nurse/midwifery manager, code of conduct and effect of staff attitude and interpersonal relations in service delivery.
He noted that promoting healthy living and dieting had the potential to eliminate most of the communicable and non-communicable diseases which had burdened the country's health sector.
Major Quashigah made the call at the opening of a five-day national conference for senior nurse managers on the theme: “Regenerative Health and the Nurse Manager”.
The participants would discuss issues affecting nursing administration and ethics and introduced to other new management concepts, health policies and develop action plans for dissemination.
Major Quashigah said regenerative health and nutrition programme was initiated to change lifestyles, prevent ill-health and promote a healthy individual, adding, "this would increase work output, economic growth, reduce poverty and help achieve the Millennium Development Goals".
He said, "Nurses needed to be empowered with adequate knowledge and skills on the programme for their personal benefit and impart the knowledge to their clientele".
"We are to serve as change agents in our communities after the conference. We must experience a change in our health which would inspire those we come in contact with to adopt the regenerative health and nutrition lifestyle".
Mrs May Osae-Addae, Chief Nursing Officer of Ministry of Health, said a recent survey revealed that there was inadequate information on the programme among senior nurses, therefore the conference would provide a deeper understanding to ensure effective implementation at the regional level.
She noted that the conference would also develop strategies to ensure growth and development of nursing in the country.
Topics to be discussed would include regenerative health and nutrition, customer care, national health vision, NHIS and the nurse/midwifery manager, code of conduct and effect of staff attitude and interpersonal relations in service delivery.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
communities benefits from potable water supply
Aqua Vitens Rand Ltd. (AVRL) is spending over GhC1.04 million (700,000 euros) to provide water to nearly 50,000 people in seven deprived communities, under a corporate social responsibility project known as “Water 4 Life.”
“Water 4 Life” is financed through voluntary contributions from customers of Vitens of the Netherlands, one of AVRL’S two shareholders.
AVRL manages the funds in Ghana for projects independently of its management contract with Ghana Water Company.
The beneficiary communities include Teshie Old Town in Accra and Nsuatre in the Brong-Ahafo region where a total of 12,500 people previously without regular access to affordable and potable water, now receive it.
The Nsuatre facility comprises the development and mechanisation of a borehole, electricity extension, a 25,000-gallon steel storage tank and a network of transmission lines. The Nsuatre facility is valued at 85,000 euros. It will serve 5,000 people, and is due to be commissioned in November.
A similar facility worth twice as much has also been approved for Tuobodom to supply water to 13,000 people who are underserved.
Additionally, 11 villages in the Central Region are being connected to new pipelines that will serve almost 14,000 people.
A further 6,500 people in Bawku and Zaare in Upper East will receive potable water through special water kiosks whose construction is near completion. Two water kiosks with associated civil works serving 2,500 people has already been completed at Navrongo at a cost of 100,000 euros.
““Water 4 Life” is very important to AVRL and Vitens,” according to Andrew Barber, Managing Director of AVRL. “It demonstrates the keen interest of Vitens to go beyond its contract obligations to improve access to water for deprived communities in Ghana.”
“Water 4 Life” is financed through voluntary contributions from customers of Vitens of the Netherlands, one of AVRL’S two shareholders.
AVRL manages the funds in Ghana for projects independently of its management contract with Ghana Water Company.
The beneficiary communities include Teshie Old Town in Accra and Nsuatre in the Brong-Ahafo region where a total of 12,500 people previously without regular access to affordable and potable water, now receive it.
The Nsuatre facility comprises the development and mechanisation of a borehole, electricity extension, a 25,000-gallon steel storage tank and a network of transmission lines. The Nsuatre facility is valued at 85,000 euros. It will serve 5,000 people, and is due to be commissioned in November.
A similar facility worth twice as much has also been approved for Tuobodom to supply water to 13,000 people who are underserved.
Additionally, 11 villages in the Central Region are being connected to new pipelines that will serve almost 14,000 people.
A further 6,500 people in Bawku and Zaare in Upper East will receive potable water through special water kiosks whose construction is near completion. Two water kiosks with associated civil works serving 2,500 people has already been completed at Navrongo at a cost of 100,000 euros.
““Water 4 Life” is very important to AVRL and Vitens,” according to Andrew Barber, Managing Director of AVRL. “It demonstrates the keen interest of Vitens to go beyond its contract obligations to improve access to water for deprived communities in Ghana.”
Aqua Vitens establishes call centre
Aqua Vitens Rand Ltd. (AVRL), acting for and on behalf of Ghana Water Company Ltd. (GCL) as the Operator, has established an internet-based Call Centre which will receive customer complaints and enquiries from all over the country.
“Customers can now call 0800 40000 from any Ghana Telecom or One Touch phone to our call centre without paying for the call, because it’s toll free,” Mrs. Edith Boachie, Call Centre Manageress said.
“We’re making efforts to include other networks as well, and so this is the starting point,” she said.
The establishment of the call centre is part of AVRL’s new efforts at improving customer care. “No matter how brilliant our engineers are, if we fail to take good care of our customers, then we would have failed in our purpose,” said Andrew Barber, Managing Director of AVRL.
“The company is investing in training customer care staff and improving customer care facilities throughout the country, because the customer ought to be at the centre of all our activities,” Mr. Barber said.
The Call Centre works through trained Front Office Agents at AVRL’s head office in Accra, who receive customers’ calls. If the Agent cannot assist the customer directly, the complaint or enquiry is forwarded to a Back Office Agent in the concerned region to investigate and respond.
“Every enquiry as well as the time it takes to respond is all logged. This enables us to keep track of the complaints and ensure that it doesn’t take us more than 48 hours to get back to the customer. It also enables us to profile the enquiries so that our efforts can go exactly where they’re required,” Mrs. Boachie said.
“Customers can now call 0800 40000 from any Ghana Telecom or One Touch phone to our call centre without paying for the call, because it’s toll free,” Mrs. Edith Boachie, Call Centre Manageress said.
“We’re making efforts to include other networks as well, and so this is the starting point,” she said.
The establishment of the call centre is part of AVRL’s new efforts at improving customer care. “No matter how brilliant our engineers are, if we fail to take good care of our customers, then we would have failed in our purpose,” said Andrew Barber, Managing Director of AVRL.
“The company is investing in training customer care staff and improving customer care facilities throughout the country, because the customer ought to be at the centre of all our activities,” Mr. Barber said.
The Call Centre works through trained Front Office Agents at AVRL’s head office in Accra, who receive customers’ calls. If the Agent cannot assist the customer directly, the complaint or enquiry is forwarded to a Back Office Agent in the concerned region to investigate and respond.
“Every enquiry as well as the time it takes to respond is all logged. This enables us to keep track of the complaints and ensure that it doesn’t take us more than 48 hours to get back to the customer. It also enables us to profile the enquiries so that our efforts can go exactly where they’re required,” Mrs. Boachie said.
Friday, October 31, 2008
poverty stilla problem in rural areas
Accra, Ghana - Mr. Ernest Debrah, Minister of Food and Agriculture, on Thursday said though human resource development and capacity building programme had led to increased food supplies and crop yields, poverty still remained a major problem among rural population.He said the challenge was for stakeholders to develop strategies that more clearly addressed the needs of the poor and ensured that they benefited.Mr. Debrah said this at the launch of the first Edikanfo Progressive Foundation/Communicating America Education Programme (EPF/CAEP) National Agriculture Human Resource Development and Exchange Programme, a collaborative programme between the ministry and Edikanfo Foundations, an NGO to expose Ghanaian farmers to international best practices. He said the pov erty reduction strategy recognized agriculture as a sector with the greatest potential to reduce poverty. "We recognise the fact that poverty reduction will only be achieved through appropriate actions - a combination of activities to increase production and productivity."Mr Debrah said the youth in modern agriculture programme was also to provide gainful employment for the unemployed and underemployed particularly those in the rural areas. He noted other challenges facing the sector as finance and mechanisation. "My ministry is pursuing vigorous policies to enhance farmers' access to timely mechanised services." Mr Debrah urged young farmers, agriculture students and ministry to take advantage of the opportunities that the programme offered to develop themselves.Mr Patrick Kwabena Arthur, Coordinator, EPF said developing effective strategies to unlock the potential of Ghanaian agriculture was crucial to achieve the country's growth and poverty reduction goals. He said the foundation had supported development interventions through advocacy, education and training, among others. Mr Arthur said the exchange programme would offer Ghanaian farmers valuable experience in specified areas, improve communication skills to ensure personal growth and development.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Committee institute punishment against students
Eastern Ghana – The Committee set up to investigate an alleged sexual scandal that rocked Osino Presbyterian Senior High School in the Eastern Region has recommended outright withdrawal or suspension of all offenders.
The committee also recommended the abolition of the title “Chief Boarding Officer” as well as the “school mother and father relationship” and also fencing of the school compound.
These were contained in a report presented to Mr Daniel Dugan, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Women and Children’s Affairs, when he visited the school in the company of the Director, Department of Children, Mr Peter Eduful and an Officer of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit to assess the situation.
The findings discovered a general breakdown of discipline. It also found out that the alleged rape of a female student was false as stated by a doctor’s report.
It also came out that the channel of communication was not working properly, and that there was gross abuse of “school father and mother relationship” and too many outlets to the school.
Mr Dugan condemned the spate of indiscipline that is creeping into schools and called on students to take their academic work serious.
He said negative peer influence was a destructive force that must not be condoned, saying, “Study hard, aim high and let the sky be your limit”.
Mr Eduful said government was committed to creating the enabling environment to ensure that education for all was achieved.
Mr Kwadwo Akyeampong-Sakyi, Headmaster of the School, expressed his disappointment about the manner the media carried the story.
“In fact the school has over the past two weeks been under constant harassment from the media.”
He said copies of the report would be forwarded to the Ghana Education Service and other authorities concerned.
Mr Akyeampong-Sakyi said the school with a population of 1,200 lacked basic school amenities such as dormitory blocks and science laboratory.
The committee also recommended the abolition of the title “Chief Boarding Officer” as well as the “school mother and father relationship” and also fencing of the school compound.
These were contained in a report presented to Mr Daniel Dugan, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Women and Children’s Affairs, when he visited the school in the company of the Director, Department of Children, Mr Peter Eduful and an Officer of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit to assess the situation.
The findings discovered a general breakdown of discipline. It also found out that the alleged rape of a female student was false as stated by a doctor’s report.
It also came out that the channel of communication was not working properly, and that there was gross abuse of “school father and mother relationship” and too many outlets to the school.
Mr Dugan condemned the spate of indiscipline that is creeping into schools and called on students to take their academic work serious.
He said negative peer influence was a destructive force that must not be condoned, saying, “Study hard, aim high and let the sky be your limit”.
Mr Eduful said government was committed to creating the enabling environment to ensure that education for all was achieved.
Mr Kwadwo Akyeampong-Sakyi, Headmaster of the School, expressed his disappointment about the manner the media carried the story.
“In fact the school has over the past two weeks been under constant harassment from the media.”
He said copies of the report would be forwarded to the Ghana Education Service and other authorities concerned.
Mr Akyeampong-Sakyi said the school with a population of 1,200 lacked basic school amenities such as dormitory blocks and science laboratory.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Assemblies urged to be innovative
Accra, Ghana – Mr. Eric Oduro Osae, senior lecturer at the Institute of Local Government Studies, on Monday urged assembly members to devise innovative means of generating internal resources, to fund development activities in their localities.
He said the District Assembly concept gave so much power to assembly members to be able to raise revenue to meet the development aspirations of their electoral areas and also to pay their personal emoluments.
Speaking at a workshop organised by the Foundation for Female Photojournalists, Mr Osae noted that the inability of assembly members to familiarize themselves with the guidelines of the district assemblies had caused their problems.
The workshop sponsored by Right And Voice Initiative on the theme: "Ghana must Compensate Assembly Members, a Call for Civil Society Support" was to advocate for an effective local governance system.
He said Article 250 of the constitution stated that the emolument of presiding members and other assembly members should be determined and paid out of the assembly's own resources.
Mr Osae also called for the modification of the guidelines on the District Assemblies’ Common Fund (DACF) to enable the assembly to have some percentage.
"There should be a constituency fund allocated to parliamentarians and the DACF allocated solely to the assemblies.”
He noted that the neglect of members through the absence of a substantive remuneration package, logistical problems and inadequate sitting allowances created a room for laxity, lack of commitment and inefficiencies.
Ms Mardey Ofoe, Executive Director, FFP, called for implementation of the 50 per cent retention for the substructures in the metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies, capacity building and regular sensitisation of the public on the local government systems.
"There will be no meaningful governance, if local government is weak," he added.
He said the District Assembly concept gave so much power to assembly members to be able to raise revenue to meet the development aspirations of their electoral areas and also to pay their personal emoluments.
Speaking at a workshop organised by the Foundation for Female Photojournalists, Mr Osae noted that the inability of assembly members to familiarize themselves with the guidelines of the district assemblies had caused their problems.
The workshop sponsored by Right And Voice Initiative on the theme: "Ghana must Compensate Assembly Members, a Call for Civil Society Support" was to advocate for an effective local governance system.
He said Article 250 of the constitution stated that the emolument of presiding members and other assembly members should be determined and paid out of the assembly's own resources.
Mr Osae also called for the modification of the guidelines on the District Assemblies’ Common Fund (DACF) to enable the assembly to have some percentage.
"There should be a constituency fund allocated to parliamentarians and the DACF allocated solely to the assemblies.”
He noted that the neglect of members through the absence of a substantive remuneration package, logistical problems and inadequate sitting allowances created a room for laxity, lack of commitment and inefficiencies.
Ms Mardey Ofoe, Executive Director, FFP, called for implementation of the 50 per cent retention for the substructures in the metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies, capacity building and regular sensitisation of the public on the local government systems.
"There will be no meaningful governance, if local government is weak," he added.
Friday, October 24, 2008
More than 2,000 people perished in road accidents last year
Accra, Ghana– Available statistics indicate that 2,043 people perished in road accidents in 2007 compared to 1,858 people who died in 2006.
The increase was due to indiscipline on the part of drivers.
"Our roads have become slaughterhouses where we are butchered in great numbers. We all know that most of these accidents could be prevented with little effort, discipline and respect for other road users," Mr Kofi Asamoah, General Secretary, Ghana Trades Union Congress(GTUC) said in Accra on Tuesday.
He was speaking at the 2008 International Road Transport Action Week to mark this year's Federation of Transport Unions (FTU) celebrations.
FTU action week, which runs from October 13-19 is on the theme: “Organizing Globally, Building Union Power, Eradicating the Carnage on our Roads, Addressing the Undue Delays at our Frontiers, Correcting the Indiscipline on our Roads, Minimizing HIV/AIDS among road Transport workers.”
Placards bearing messages such as “Drivers, respect the right of other road users”, “Fatigue Kills”, “Drivers, observe your mandatory rest stops,” and “HIV/AIDS has no known cure, do not contract it” were used to create awareness on the need to ensure road safety.
Mr Asamoah noted that between January and June 2007, 744 people were killed and 4,904 sustained various degrees of injuries from road accidents.
"A more detailed analysis of the road accidents statistics shows that 42 per cent of persons killed annually were pedestrians. Over 60 per cent are in the economically active age group of 18-55 years and 70 per cent are men.”
He said the statistics showed that speeding was the major cause of road accidents, accounting for over 50 per cent of reported cases.
A significant number of accidents (16 per cent) occurs on Fridays and Sundays while April and December also register the highest occurrences.
"A critical look at the causes of these accidents show that they were primarily due to the responsibility of drivers, impatience, gross disregard for human life, wrong parking, over speeding, drunk-driving, overloading and poor state of vehicles," Mr Asamoah added.
He therefore called on all transport unions to organise themselves well, bring on board floating drivers and standardize their working conditions to prevent reckless practices.
Mr Emmanuel Mensah, Coordinating Secretary, FTU, called on government to expedite discussions on a national transport policy to regulate activities in the sector.
He cautioned against negative attitude of drivers saying most of these negative behaviours by the bad nuts in the driving profession, often caused a huge loss in investments made by transport companies, owners and individuals.
Mildred
The increase was due to indiscipline on the part of drivers.
"Our roads have become slaughterhouses where we are butchered in great numbers. We all know that most of these accidents could be prevented with little effort, discipline and respect for other road users," Mr Kofi Asamoah, General Secretary, Ghana Trades Union Congress(GTUC) said in Accra on Tuesday.
He was speaking at the 2008 International Road Transport Action Week to mark this year's Federation of Transport Unions (FTU) celebrations.
FTU action week, which runs from October 13-19 is on the theme: “Organizing Globally, Building Union Power, Eradicating the Carnage on our Roads, Addressing the Undue Delays at our Frontiers, Correcting the Indiscipline on our Roads, Minimizing HIV/AIDS among road Transport workers.”
Placards bearing messages such as “Drivers, respect the right of other road users”, “Fatigue Kills”, “Drivers, observe your mandatory rest stops,” and “HIV/AIDS has no known cure, do not contract it” were used to create awareness on the need to ensure road safety.
Mr Asamoah noted that between January and June 2007, 744 people were killed and 4,904 sustained various degrees of injuries from road accidents.
"A more detailed analysis of the road accidents statistics shows that 42 per cent of persons killed annually were pedestrians. Over 60 per cent are in the economically active age group of 18-55 years and 70 per cent are men.”
He said the statistics showed that speeding was the major cause of road accidents, accounting for over 50 per cent of reported cases.
A significant number of accidents (16 per cent) occurs on Fridays and Sundays while April and December also register the highest occurrences.
"A critical look at the causes of these accidents show that they were primarily due to the responsibility of drivers, impatience, gross disregard for human life, wrong parking, over speeding, drunk-driving, overloading and poor state of vehicles," Mr Asamoah added.
He therefore called on all transport unions to organise themselves well, bring on board floating drivers and standardize their working conditions to prevent reckless practices.
Mr Emmanuel Mensah, Coordinating Secretary, FTU, called on government to expedite discussions on a national transport policy to regulate activities in the sector.
He cautioned against negative attitude of drivers saying most of these negative behaviours by the bad nuts in the driving profession, often caused a huge loss in investments made by transport companies, owners and individuals.
Mildred
Ghana to have a petroleum Institute
Ghana to have a Petroleum Institute
Accra, Ghana- Mr Felix Owusu-Adjapong, Minister of Energy on Friday identified unskilled labour and the absence of a credible certification for assessing the existing manpower as a major challenge to the petroleum industry.
“It is therefore encouraging that we have all met here to deliberate on the issue and to formally announce the propose Petroleum Technology Institute, Ghana (PTIG) as a credible institution to address this most critical challenge”, he added.
Mr Owusu-Adjapong was speaking at the forum organised to sensitise the public on the need for Ghana to own a school in that direction. It was under the theme: Building the Knowledge gap Between Education and the Petroleum Industry.
The propose school to kick-off by 2010 in the Western Region would be a centre of excellence in integrated oil and gas engineering and sustainable energy studies and serve as a natural manpower and adaptive research and technology development resource centre in Ghana and West Africa as a whole.
He said government was committed to ensuring that the policy on local content development and utilization was duly pursued to ensure that Ghanaians were adequately trained to acquire relevant competencies.
Mr Owusu-Adjapong said the task of human capital development was a challenged for all stakeholders in the economy, “I therefore urge you to adopt an integrated private-public partnership approach in training and development for the oil and gas industry.
The PTIG is a brainchild of a Nigerian business group in Consultation with the Ghana National Petroleum Council and the ministry of Energy.
When it becomes fully operational, the PTIG would offer postgraduate programmes in petroleum and Well Engineering, Pipeline, Sub-sea and Riser engineering, renewable Energy, Information and Refinery Technology.
Osahene Katakyei Busumakura 111, Takoradi Omanhene said the region was poised to support the project to make it a reality.
mildred
Accra, Ghana- Mr Felix Owusu-Adjapong, Minister of Energy on Friday identified unskilled labour and the absence of a credible certification for assessing the existing manpower as a major challenge to the petroleum industry.
“It is therefore encouraging that we have all met here to deliberate on the issue and to formally announce the propose Petroleum Technology Institute, Ghana (PTIG) as a credible institution to address this most critical challenge”, he added.
Mr Owusu-Adjapong was speaking at the forum organised to sensitise the public on the need for Ghana to own a school in that direction. It was under the theme: Building the Knowledge gap Between Education and the Petroleum Industry.
The propose school to kick-off by 2010 in the Western Region would be a centre of excellence in integrated oil and gas engineering and sustainable energy studies and serve as a natural manpower and adaptive research and technology development resource centre in Ghana and West Africa as a whole.
He said government was committed to ensuring that the policy on local content development and utilization was duly pursued to ensure that Ghanaians were adequately trained to acquire relevant competencies.
Mr Owusu-Adjapong said the task of human capital development was a challenged for all stakeholders in the economy, “I therefore urge you to adopt an integrated private-public partnership approach in training and development for the oil and gas industry.
The PTIG is a brainchild of a Nigerian business group in Consultation with the Ghana National Petroleum Council and the ministry of Energy.
When it becomes fully operational, the PTIG would offer postgraduate programmes in petroleum and Well Engineering, Pipeline, Sub-sea and Riser engineering, renewable Energy, Information and Refinery Technology.
Osahene Katakyei Busumakura 111, Takoradi Omanhene said the region was poised to support the project to make it a reality.
mildred
Weija Treatment to be shutdown
Accra, Ghana - The Ghana Water Company, is to shutdown the Weija Treatment Plant tomorrow Tuesday October 14, for a day to undertake industrial works to facilitate increase water supply.
The 24-hour shutdown would mark the final shutdown of the plant in the recent times to also enable engineers at the dam site to connect newly constructed filters to existing ones.
Mr Roland Sandher, Project Engineer, Ballast Construction, contractors of the East-West Interconnection and Weija Water Treatment Plant Extension, said two new filters had been constructed to complement the already existing ones.
He said the project, expected to be completed by the end of the year, would provide an additional 15 million gallons of water production a day. This would increase daily production of water at the plant from 40 million gallons of water a day to 55 million gallons.
Mr Sandler said the capacity of the dam had been increased to mitigate the impact of water shortage that had hit some parts of Accra over the years.
Mildred
The 24-hour shutdown would mark the final shutdown of the plant in the recent times to also enable engineers at the dam site to connect newly constructed filters to existing ones.
Mr Roland Sandher, Project Engineer, Ballast Construction, contractors of the East-West Interconnection and Weija Water Treatment Plant Extension, said two new filters had been constructed to complement the already existing ones.
He said the project, expected to be completed by the end of the year, would provide an additional 15 million gallons of water production a day. This would increase daily production of water at the plant from 40 million gallons of water a day to 55 million gallons.
Mr Sandler said the capacity of the dam had been increased to mitigate the impact of water shortage that had hit some parts of Accra over the years.
Mildred
Civil Servants attend workshop on records management
Accra, Ghana- Mr Joe Issachar, Head of the Civil Service, on Monday called for constant upgrading of knowledge and skills by the personnel of the Service in order to meet national and global demands.
He said promotion of professional standards was required in all sectors of the Service to ensure improved productivity.
Mr Issachar made the call at the opening of a two-week Records Management workshop organised by his office with sponsorship from the Commonwealth Secretariat for middle level civil servants.
About 50 participants from the Ministries, Departments and Agencies are expected to be trained on record types and Cycle; classification systems, physical protection and security and record centre procedures.
He noted that records management formed an important component of the service's day-to-day activities saying "it is the records that you keep which help the politician to make policies and other developmental decisions".
Mr Issachar said the Service would computerize all data and therefore charged the participants to utilize the knowledge that would be acquired.
Mr Alex Kwaning, a representative of Commonwealth Secretariat, said though efficient record management was critical to the country's development, it had been relegated to the background.
He said the secretariat would continue to train practitioners, especially in electronic records management, as a management tool needed for specific duties in the service.
Mildred
20 Oct. 08
He said promotion of professional standards was required in all sectors of the Service to ensure improved productivity.
Mr Issachar made the call at the opening of a two-week Records Management workshop organised by his office with sponsorship from the Commonwealth Secretariat for middle level civil servants.
About 50 participants from the Ministries, Departments and Agencies are expected to be trained on record types and Cycle; classification systems, physical protection and security and record centre procedures.
He noted that records management formed an important component of the service's day-to-day activities saying "it is the records that you keep which help the politician to make policies and other developmental decisions".
Mr Issachar said the Service would computerize all data and therefore charged the participants to utilize the knowledge that would be acquired.
Mr Alex Kwaning, a representative of Commonwealth Secretariat, said though efficient record management was critical to the country's development, it had been relegated to the background.
He said the secretariat would continue to train practitioners, especially in electronic records management, as a management tool needed for specific duties in the service.
Mildred
20 Oct. 08
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