2 Million Volta Residents Get Insecticide Nets to Fight Malaria

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May 7, 2025

BY: Daniel Orlando | VoltaOnline

The National Peace Council (NPC) of Ghana has announced the unanimous election of Most Rev. Emmanuel Fianu, SVD, Catholic Bishop of Ho Diocese and Vice President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference (GCBC), as its new Chairman.

Bishop Fianu, who first joined the Peace Council Board in November 2020 as the GCBC representative, brings a wealth of experience in spiritual leadership and conflict resolution to the role. His appointment marks a significant boost in the NPC’s mission to foster peace, unity, and national cohesion across the country.

The NPC congratulated Bishop Fianu on his election, expressing deep trust and confidence in his leadership, wisdom, and commitment to peace. The Council looks forward to a tenure marked by unity, dialogue, and national cohesion under his leadership.

During the inauguration of the reconstituted 13-member Board, President John Mahama charged them to build trust, proactively identify and address conflicts to prevent escalation.

Other members of the new NPC board include: Rt. Rev. Dr. Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe; Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye; Bishop Dr. Victor Osei; Alhaji Maulvi Mohammed Bin Salih; Sheik Salman Mohammed Alhassan; Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu; Numo Blafo Akotia Omaɛtu III; Ms. Linda Teye; Dr. Abubakar Umar Alhassan; Georgette Francois; Susan Aryeetey; and Nana Effah-Apenteng

The National Peace Council is a statutory institution established to facilitate cooperation among stakeholders in peacebuilding, promote conflict resolution, and build sustainable peace.

NHIA to Inject GHC10 Billion into Healthcare in 2025 – Dr. Djokoto

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May 7, 2025

BY: Daniel Orlando | VoltaOnline

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is expected to receive a projected GHC10 billion this year, following a renewed government commitment to uncap the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL).

According to Dr. Kwesi Senanu Djokoto, Deputy Chief Executive (Operations) of the NHIA, the funding will significantly strengthen the Authority’s ability to reimburse health facilities on time.

Speaking as a panel member on TV3’s Health Forum, Dr. Djokoto emphasized the growing financial responsibility of the NHIA, noting that a significant portion of funding for many health facilities across Ghana now comes from NHIA reimbursements.

He stressed the importance of adopting more realistic tariffs for healthcare services, arguing that appropriate pricing is critical to ensuring both quality care for patients and sustainability for healthcare providers.

“Our reimbursement must reflect the actual cost of services. We need to pay realistic tariffs if we are to support our facilities effectively and ensure long-term viability,” Dr. Djokoto stated.

The discussion forms part of broader conversations on transforming Ghana’s healthcare sector through improved financing, infrastructure, and policy reforms.

GJA-Volta/Oti Honours Stakeholders at Press Freedom Day Get-together

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May 5, 2025

BY: Lambert Coffie | VoltaOnline

The Volta/Oti Regional Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) celebrated World Press Freedom Day 2025 with a Get-together at the Press Centre in Ho on Saturday, May 3, 2025.

The event celebrated media practitioners and honoured key stakeholders for their consistent support to the association and media development in the region.

The honourees included Mr. Dela Gadzanku, Regional Chairman of the Association of Ghana Industries (Eastern/Volta/Oti); Mr. Gershon Adeklo, CEO of Loggu Motors; Mr. Christian Hokey, CEO of Doelyne Agro Ent. Ltd; Mama Atrato II, Queenmother of Ho Dome; and the Electricity Company of Ghana – Volta Region.

Special recognition was also given to former GJA Regional Chairman, Mr. A.B. Kafui Kanyi for his instrumental role in establishing the Press Centre Project, Media Village Initiative, and Regional awards.

Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu, a veteran journalist and GJA member, received a congratulatory citation for his elevation to office.

GJA Regional Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Agbaxode lauded the honourees’ contributions to the association’s progress and called on others to support press freedom and development. He advocated for improved working conditions for journalists, citing low remuneration and minimal welfare support, while commending media owners for their resilience despite financial challenges. He also appealed for support to complete the regional Press Centre.

On his part, the Regional Minister assured of his commitment to a stronger media-government partnership. As a journalist himself, he pledged his support for GJA activities, as he announced a GH₵ 10,000 donation towards the Press Centre’s completion.

Speaking on the theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” Mrs. Maria Kwami Gwira, former Director of Public Affairs at UHAS, emphasized the importance of ethical journalism in the AI era, urging media practitioners to harness technology responsibly while safeguarding press freedom and professional integrity.

The ceremony, chaired by Capt. (Rtd) George Nfodzo, a former DCE and MP for Ho, was also graced by the Municipal and District Chief Executives from Ho, Ho West, and Akatsi North, who pledged support for the Press Centre project.

Zongo Chiefs in Western Region Pledge Support for Regional Minister

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May 2, 2025

BY: Dawda Mohammed Kakale, Takoradi

The Western Region Heads of Zongo Chiefs have paid a courtesy call on the Western Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Nelson, to formally congratulate him on his appointment by President John Dramani Mahama.

The delegation, led by the President of the association, Sarki Ahmed Usman Maiwada Masala II, expressed their commitment to supporting the Minister’s leadership and the broader vision of President Mahama for the Western Region. In his remarks, Sarki Maiwada, who is the Zongo Chief of Takoradi, stated that the Zongo Chiefs are ready to work collaboratively with the Regional Minister to help drive peace, unity, and development in their communities.

He thanked President Mahama for fulfilling some of the promises made to Ghanaians, particularly to the Zongo communities, and pledged their commitment to maintaining peace and curbing the rising menace of drug abuse among Zongo youth. “On our part as Zongo Chiefs, we will ensure that peace prevails to foster development in the region. We are also determined to help address drug abuse, which is endangering the lives of many of our young people,” he stated.

Siedu Hussieni Sako, the Organizer of the Western Region Heads of Zongo Chiefs and Zongo Chief of Wassa Damang, added his voice to the discussion, highlighting the issue of unemployment among youth in Zongo communities. He urged the government to ensure that employment opportunities are extended to the large number of unemployed graduates and skilled youth in Zongo areas, emphasizing the need for fairness and inclusion.

In response, Hon. Joseph Nelson expressed his gratitude to the Zongo Chiefs for their visit and support. He reiterated the strong and historic relationship between the government and the Zongo leadership, assuring them of the government’s commitment to their welfare. He noted that the NDC government, under the leadership of President Mahama, had delivered on all of its 120-day promises, including the reduction of Hajj charges and the declaration of an additional public holiday for Eid al-Fitr.

The Regional Minister also emphasized the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, particularly road construction, as a means to open up communities and enhance regional development. “I welcome all positive suggestions and initiatives that will help advance the development of the Western Region, including the Zongo communities,” the Minister said.

The delegation included Zongo Chiefs from various parts of the region, such as Jomoro, Axim Assiama, Wassa Akyempim, Damang, Oppong Valley, Takoradi, Effiakuma, Aboadze, Wassa Akropong, Tarkwa Tamso, Bogoso, and several other towns across the Western Region.

Parliamentary Health C’tee Visits Ho Teaching Hospital, Pledges Support

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April 27, 2025

BY: Daniel Orlando | VoltaOnline

A delegation from the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health has paid a working visit to the Ho Teaching Hospital, reaffirming their commitment to improving healthcare delivery in the country.

Led by Dr. Thomas Anabah, MP for Garu, the team interacted with staff and patients while inspecting various projects undertaken by the hospital using internally generated funds (IGF).

These projects include the newly commissioned Family Health Centre, a CT Scan building, a 24-hour Pharmacy Complex, additional consulting rooms for Psychological Medicine, and a Dialysis Unit. The delegation also inspected the ongoing expansion works for the Accident and Emergency Unit, courtesy of the MTN Foundation.

The team expressed satisfaction with the hospital’s use of IGF, commending the management and staff for their dedication to providing quality healthcare services. However, Dr. John Tampuori, CEO of the Ho Teaching Hospital, highlighted the hospital’s challenges, including growing patient load, overcrowding, and rising mortality rates.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Tampuori emphasized the hospital’s commitment to becoming a leading medical hub in Ghana and appealed to the parliamentarians to advocate for a stronger tertiary policy for teaching hospitals and medical tourism.

In response, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health pledged to support the retooling of public health facilities across Ghana.

Hon. Charles Agbeve, MP for Agotime-Ziope, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the 500-bed facility expansion at the hospital, which will enhance healthcare delivery and promote medical tourism.

The delegation included Hon. Thomas Anabah (Garu), Hon. Akwasi Acquah (Akyem Oda), Hon. Charles Agbeve (Agotime-Ziope), Hon. Prince Arhin (Mfantseman), Hon. Alex Hottordze (Central Tongu), Hon. Mohammed Abdul-Khaliq (Nanton), and Hon. Kwame Gakpey (Keta).

CAGD Holds Annual Conference in Ho, Highlights Public Financial Mgt. Reforms

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April 25, 2025

BY: Daniel Orlando | VoltaOnline

The Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) held its 2025 Annual Conference at Ho Technical University, bringing together stakeholders to discuss enhancing public financial management excellence.

The conference, themed “Enhancing Public Financial Management Excellence,” provided a platform for the Department to highlight its commitment to transparency and accountability in public financial management.

In his address, the Controller and Accountant-General, Mr. Kwasi Agyei, reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to enhancing public financial transparency and accountability through the full implementation of the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS). He underscored the Department’s significant progress in modernizing Ghana’s financial reporting systems, which has improved the quality and scope of reporting in traditional areas such as Revenue, Expenditure, Assets, and Liabilities (REAL).

Mr. Agyei also emphasized the importance of integrity, transparency, and professionalism in public financial management as a foundation for sustainable national development. He acknowledged the Department’s responsibility in safeguarding Ghana’s public finances, especially in the face of rising expenditures and global economic uncertainties.

On his part, the Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Thomas Ampem Nyarko, unveiled bold public financial management reforms aimed at strengthening fiscal discipline and promoting efficient resource use. The reforms include the amendment of the Public Financial Management Act and the Procurement Act to align with international best practices, improve efficiency in public spending, and close loopholes that have enabled mismanagement of funds.

He noted that, a new fiscal compliance framework will also be operationalized to introduce stricter monitoring and reporting mechanisms, while, the government will undertake a comprehensive audit of existing financial commitments and arrears to establish the true extent of public liabilities and ensure accurate fiscal planning.

The government, the Deputy Minister stated, will also enhance oversight of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and public investment projects, involving tighter scrutiny of project implementation and performance. Furthermore, Technology-Driven Solutions will be implemented to improve accountability and fiscal efficiency, including the full integration of the Ghana Electronic Procurement System (GHANEPS) with the Ghana Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS).

The conference provided an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on the importance of sound public financial management in promoting sustainable national development.

South Tongu MP Hosts Investment Forum to Market Area’s Potentials

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April 23, 2025

BY: VoltaOnline NewsDesk

Hon. Maxwell Kwame Lukutor, Member of Parliament for South Tongu, has launched a bold initiative to transform the district into a hub for sustainable development.

At the South Tongu Business and Investment Forum, held at the Shekinah Royal City in Sogakofe, he unveiled ambitious plans to harness local and global partnerships under the theme “Harnessing Local and Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development in South Tongu.”

Addressing stakeholders, Hon. Lukutor outlined South Tongu’s potential, emphasizing its fertile agricultural lands, natural resources, strategic location, and rich cultural heritage. He called for decisive action and collective commitment to unlock the district’s promise, declaring, “South Tongu is ready for business and partnerships that can drive sustainable development.”

The forum served as a platform for exploring investment opportunities across key sectors, including tourism, agriculture, education, manufacturing, healthcare, and the digital economy.

Participants learned about plans to develop eco-tourism along the Volta River, expand agro-processing industries, establish vocational training centers, create industrial parks, upgrade healthcare facilities, and promote e-commerce platforms.

One of the event’s highlights was Hon. Lukutor’s announcement of a modern stadium facility for South Tongu, to be built under a public-private partnership (PPP) with The Oxygen Group Capital.

The stadium is expected to boost sports development, nurture local talent, and enhance the district’s profile.

Hon. Lukutor appealed to government agencies, private investors, local entrepreneurs, and the diaspora to join forces in driving South Tongu’s development agenda.

The forum concluded with optimism as stakeholders committed to partnerships that would shape the district’s future.

Source: Togbe Dzablu, Dela Radio

Ho Diocese to hold Requiem Masses for Pope Francis on April 24

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April 23, 2025

BY: VoltaOnline NewsDesk

The Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu, SVD, Catholic Bishop of Ho Diocese, has directed all parishes within the Diocese to organize Requiem Masses for the repose of the soul of the late Holy Father, Pope Francis.

This announcement follows the sad news of the Pope’s passing on Monday, April 21, 2025.

Acknowledging the Pope’s humility and commitment to the Church, Most Rev. Fianu noted that these Masses should be scheduled at a convenient time before Saturday, April 26, 2025, to allow the faithful to participate fully.

In special arrangements for the Ho and Hohoe townships, a central Requiem Mass has been planned as follows:

Ho: Sacred Heart Cathedral, Ho-Bankoe, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 6:30 PM.
Hohoe: St. Augustine Catholic Church, Hohoe, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 6:30 PM.

Pope Francis, remembered for his life of simplicity and faithfulness to the Church, will be laid to rest at a funeral Mass in Rome on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Stephen Adom Unanimously Endorsed as Ho MCE

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April 8, 2025

BY: Lambert Coffie | VoltaOnline

Members of the Ho Municipal Assembly in an extraordinary show of unity, have unanimously endorsed Mr. Stephen Adom as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE). This follows his nomination by President John Dramani Mahama.

At a special sitting held on Monday, April 7, 2025, the 43-member assembly—comprising 29 elected and 14 appointed members—gave their full backing to the nominee, delivering 100% approval. Presiding Member Mawunyo Agbe steered the session, which marked the end of uncertainties over the nominee’s confirmation.

The atmosphere at the Municipal Assembly Hall was electric, with traditional and religious leaders, dignitaries, and NDC party stalwarts in attendance. Among the prominent figures present were Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu, NDC Regional Chairman Mawutor Agbavitor, Ho Central MP Edem Kpotosu, and former MDCEs.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Adom expressed heartfelt appreciation to the assembly members for the trust reposed in him. He pledged to work tirelessly to foster development in the municipality, outlining a bold vision that includes improving agriculture,commerce and education.

Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu congratulated the assembly for their unity and urged them to support the new MCE in addressing pressing challenges such as infrastructure gaps. He reiterated the significance of Ho as a regional capital and the need for collaborative efforts to drive transformation.

The unanimous endorsement is seen as a positive signal for the future of Ho Municipality, with stakeholders hopeful that this milestone will pave the way for progress and prosperity.

Prosper Kumi Confirmed as Hohoe MCE, Promises Inclusive Development

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April 6, 2025

BY: Daniel Orlando|VoltaOnline

Prosper Kumi has been confirmed as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Hohoe Municipality after securing a unanimous endorsement from all 25 Assembly Members, comprising 17 elected members and 8 government appointees.

The Friday, April 4 confirmation process was peaceful and well-coordinated, and highlighted the Assembly’s strong confidence in Mr. Kumi’s leadership.

Speaking at his confirmation ceremony in Hohoe, Mr. Kumi expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support. He pledged to lead the municipality into a new era of prosperity, inclusivity, and sustainable development. His development agenda focuses on key areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, job creation, and industrialization.

Among his plans are enhancing road networks, expanding water supply systems, and completing the Hohoe campus of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS).

Mr. Kumi promised a leadership style rooted in transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, stressing that every citizen would have a voice in decision-making processes. “I stand before you with humility and gratitude as I accept this noble responsibility,” he stated.

The Member of Parliament for Hohoe Constituency, Mr. Thomas Worlanyo Tsekpo, lauded Mr. Kumi’s confirmation, describing it as a show of unity and support for development. He assured equitable development across all electoral areas and reiterated his commitment to completing the Fodome UHAS campus and improving road networks.

Volta Regional Minister James Gunu emphasized that Mr. Kumi’s confirmation marks a renewed focus on development for the region. He expressed optimism about Hohoe attaining Metropolitan status and assured timely payment of Assembly Members’ allowances to ensure smooth governance.

Mr. Gunu noted that the confirmation symbolises progress and commitment to uplifting the municipality.