The Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH) has officially handed over a designated site to MTN Ghana Foundation for the commencement of expansion works on the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Centre.
The project, which was initially announced in 2024 with a planned start date of June 2024, is now set to begin after the site handover.
The expansion works, estimated to cost GHC30 million, will add 42 more beds to the existing 22-bed facility, an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), an elevator, and modern medical equipment to the hospital.
Speaking during the site handover ceremony, Dr. John Tampuori, Chief Executive Officer of Ho Teaching Hospital, expressed his gratitude to MTN Ghana Foundation for their support. He noted that, the expansion will address the increasing demand for emergency care, as the hospital’s current Accident and Emergency Department operates with only 22 beds, often overstretched due to high patient numbers.
Dr. Tampore (in suit) interacting with the MTN Ghana Foundation team
Madam Rhoderlyn Entsua-Mensah, Manager of Sustainability at MTN Ghana, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to supporting critical healthcare infrastructure in Ghana. “We are proud to partner with Ho Teaching Hospital to expand their Accident and Emergency Centre, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the community,” she said.
The construction firm, Build-Haap Gh. Limited, is expected to commence work on February 3, 2025 and complete it within eight months.
From the moment, Adam and Eve became aware of their vulnerability in the stories of Genesis 3:7, the need for privacy became an inherent part of human existence.
Their act of covering themselves with leaves was the beginning of human’s journey to protect not only their physical bodies but also their spiritual and emotional well-being. Privacy, in its essence, became a shield against exposure or threats and a boundary to preserve person’s dignity. This need for protection became even more pronounced after World War II, culminating in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948, which recognized privacy as a fundamental human right.
In today’s interconnected world, the concept of privacy has expanded into a new realm called the digital world where our lives are increasingly reflected in a digital form. This digital form is what many referred to as DATA. This data is more than just numbers and text; it is a reflection of our identities, behaviors, preferences, and relationships. From online shopping habits and social media interactions to health records and financial transactions, our thoughts, habits and identities are generated and stored daily for various use.
Data indeed is a digital reflection of ourselves .The use of these data may be malicious or helpful. Therefore, the need to safeguard our digital privacy is not just a technical challenge but also a fundamental human necessity. The beauty of our new world is that nearly every scroll, click, swipe, and transaction generates data, personal information that become valuable assets for making lives easier not just for businesses and governments, but for individuals as well.
Data has become a catalyst for innovation, convenience, and progress. It empowers us to make informed decisions, connect with others, and access services that were once unimaginable.However, when data falls into the wrong hands, it becomes a destructive tool.Individuals, organizations, face risks of Identity theft, financial fraud, reputational damage, just to mention a few. This is why it has become important to protect DATA.
Just as Adam and Eve covered themselves to shield their physical vulnerability, we are now compelled to cover our digital selves with ‘materials’ such as encryption, passwords, and privacy protocols. As Data Protection and Privacy Week 2025 kicks off this week, the call to safeguard personal information is getting louder than ever.This year’s Data Protection and Privacy Week 2025, themed “Protecting Privacy, Empowering People”, is a rallying cry for individuals, organizations, and governments to take collective action in securing data and empowering individuals to take control of their digital lives.
Governments around the world are stepping up to address these challenges through robust data protection laws. The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the United States’ California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and Ghana’s Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843) are leading examples of frameworks designed to safeguard personal information.
In Ghana, the Data Protection Commission has been leading various campaigns to educate citizens on their rights and responsibilities as far as data protection and privacy is concerned. The Data Protection Commission (DPC) is the Regulatory body in Ghana responsible for enforcing compliance and investigating breaches. Organizations are encouraged to adhere to their data processing rules and protocols.
As a Certified Data Protection Practitioner, I have come to the understanding that Data protection is built on four tenets of Transparency, Consent, Accountability and Purposefulness. To understand how these tenets work to ensure a safe ecosystem for our data, we must be familiar with terms such as Data Subject, Data Processor and Data Controller. While the Data Subject is the individual whose information is collected, the Data Controller is the one who determines how the data should be used. For example, a bank, as a Data Controller, can collect customer information to open an account or give a loan facility.
A Data Processor on the other hand is an entity or individual that processes personal data on behalf of the data controller. Thus they are instructed by Data Controllers on how the data should be used. Example, a cloud storage provider such as google, Amazon that hosts customer data for a business takes instructions from the Controller.
In respecting the tenets of Data Protection, Data Processors and Controllers hold the responsibility of ensuring that they clearly explain to their Data Subjects and Regulator how data is collected and used.
The Data Controller must ensure they receive Consent of Data Subjects before collecting or gathering their data. By ensuring Transparency data must be processed lawfully, fairly and in a transparent manner.
Data Controllers and Processors should be held accountable for breaches in the course of managing people’s data. Only the data necessary for specific purposes should be collected to ensure purposefulness. It should not be that a data collected from a Patient in a hospital should be in the hands of an insurance company!
Unauthorized sharing of such data especially with third parties like insurance companies without the patient’s explicit consent violates data protection principles and can lead to serious ethical and legal consequences. Above all people have the right to access, correct, or delete their data. This is what I would call the golden rule that puts power back into the hands of the data subject and hold organizations accountable for how they handle data.
Businesses, healthcare providers, and financial institutions any entity that collects and processes people’s data have a critical role to play as gatekeepers’ of our personal information. To meet this responsibility, organizations must invest in technical safeguards such as Encryption, firewalls, and other cybersecurity measures to prevent breaches. And as individuals we have the responsibility to decide who we provide certain vital information about ourselves to and why.
We need to know how to protect ourselves especially online. We have to void sharing sensitive information on unsecured platforms; we need use strong passwords and change them regularly. We need to regularly check and update privacy settings on social media and other platforms and report any suspicious activities on our platforms.
Data protection should not be seen as just a law, but it should be a way of life; a culture we must all adopt with collective efforts of safeguarding ourselves.
As Data Protection and Privacy Week 2025 unfolds, the message is clear: Your data is your power. By protecting it, we not only safeguard our identities but also pave the way for a safer, more trustworthy digital future.
The writer is a Communications Specialist and Data Protection Practitioner. You can reach him for further comments by Call/WhatsApp +233 241145874 or via email: kingnobert2@gmail.com LinkedIn: Kingnobert Akpablie
The American fast food franchise, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), has reportedly shut down its operations in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, just three years after it commenced operations in December 2021.
A notice posted at the premises, located at the Allied Oil Fuel station close to the Ho Central Market, claimed the company was “relocating to serve customers better”, but without stating the new location.
However, sources close to the matter revealed to VoltaOnline that the company had indeed folded up in town with the reason being low patronage and unsustainable operational costs.
The notice on the premises. (C) Facebook/Prince Amevi
VoltaOnline gathered local workers were notified earlier in the week before the closure and were given the option to relocate to a new branch in Techiman.
On Friday, January 24, a company truck arrived at the premises to move equipment and logistics, a source stated, marking the end of KFC’s operations in Ho.
The shutdown has sparked speculation among observers, with some attributing it to the entry of ChickenmanPizzaman, a similar business that opened two branches in Ho a few months ago.
Prior to its closure, the KFC branch in Ho faced financial difficulties, including a power disconnection by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in March 2023 over an unpaid debt of about GH¢68,000.
The Ghana Navy has taken a giant leap in its quest to enhance maritime security in the country with the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Full Bridge Simulation Centre at the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) at Nutekpor.
The simulation centre, named after the first female officer in the Royal Danish Navy, Lil-May Didriksen, is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a 270-degree Full Mission Bridge Simulator, three 120-degree Part-task Simulators, instructor stations, and briefing rooms.
The centre was co-funded by the Ghana Government, which contributed GHc5 million, and the Royal Danish Government, which provided USD 1.37 million for the advanced technology.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Monday, January 27, Ms. Marietta Agyeiwaa Brew (Esq), Legal Counsel to the President of Ghana, described the facility as a “game-changer” in the fight against maritime crime. “This facility symbolizes the shared commitment of Ghana and Denmark to secure the Gulf of Guinea and support Ghana’s blue economy,” she said.
The centre is expected to enhance the skills of seafarers in ship handling, decision-making, and navigation safety, and will also provide opportunities for joint training across civilian and military agencies.
Vice Admiral Isaah Adam Yakubu, Chief of Naval Staff, emphasized the importance of the centre in advancing maritime education and regional security.
“The Simulation Centre is not just a milestone for the Ghana Navy but a resource for the entire maritime community in Ghana, the ECOWAS Sub-region and beyond which will enhance the skills of seafarers in ship handling, decision-making and contributing to improving the safety of navigation, ensuring that our waters are safer and more secure for all,” he said.
The Ghana Navy’s collaboration with Denmark has contributed significantly to reducing piracy incidents by 60% on the Gulf of Guinea, the Navy Chief stated, adding that, the Danish Government has also established the “Ship-in-a-Box” facility and a state-of-the-art swimming pool to support diving operations.
Commodore Bo Overgaard, Deputy Chief of the Royal Danish Navy, reaffirmed Denmark’s commitment to strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. “This centre reflects the trust and collaboration between Denmark and Ghana, and the Danish government remains committed to supporting Ghana’s efforts to combat piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime challenges,” he said.
The ceremony was graced officers from the Naval Headquarters and the Naval Training Command.
Dr. Stanley Nelvis Glate, a former National Democratic Congress (NDC) Constituency Secretary for Ho Central, has withdrawn from the selection process for the next Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Ho Municipal Assembly.
Dr. Glate, who was among 24 applicants vying for the position, cited personal reasons for his decision to step down in a withdrawal letter addressed to the General Secretary of the NDC.
The letter was also copied to the Volta Regional Chairman and Secretary of the party.
Dr. Glate expressed his deep appreciation to the NDC for considering his application and providing him with the platform to contribute to the party’s mission of fostering good governance and national development.
Despite stepping down from the MCE race, Dr. Glate reaffirmed his commitment to the NDC, pledging his continued support for the party’s efforts to promote development in the Ho Municipality and beyond.
The remaining 23 contenders include six women. Notable contenders include Mr. Mawunyo Agbe, the constituency vice chairman and Presiding Member of the Municipal Assembly, and Mr. Franklin Gedzia, the Constituency Chairman, as well Cyril Fiator, the Constituency Secretary.
The vetting of the applicants is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 27, 2025.
Bellow is the list of the 23 contenders;
Mawunyo Agbe, Kasu Richard Delali Kofi, Ivy Emefa Adiko, Atsinah Richard Azorko, Sylvia Afi Sowatey,Geoffrey Nkrumah-Gatsey, Selasie Priscilla Coffie, Sitsofe Kofi Kataku, Stephen Adom, Tsevi Jackson Kwaku, Awuma Frank Yao, Daniel Kodjo Agboka Dzegede, Joycelyn Akorfa Ochlich, Franklin Kofi Gedzia, Margaret Akua Dzogbewu, Martha M. Gato-Lagble, Divine Ferg Afedo, Manfred Nuku-Dei, Joseph Emil Amevor, Geli James Mensa Kwami,Edem Kodzo Gadzanku,Cyril Fiator, & Lt (GN) Tony Anyawoe (Rtd)
The Home Group of Companies, popularly known as ‘Afe Lotto’, has been honoured with the esteemed Corporate Award at the 49th Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Awards.
The glamorous ceremony, attended by Ghana’s Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang, representing the President, was held at the Accra International Conference Center (AICC) on Friday, January 24, 2025.
The event celebrated individual excellence in sports and recognized outstanding contributions to sports development in Ghana.
Home Group of Companies, a leading conglomerate with subsidiary companies including Home Stars Football Club, Home Transport Services, Home Farms, Home Engineering, and Afe Lotto, was recognized for its tireless support of sports development in the Volta Region.
The award was received on behalf of the Chief Executive officer of the company, Mr. Joe Justus Atsivor by the Club Administrator of Home Stars FC, Mr. Emil Yaw Atando.
KGL & Access Bank were also honoured in the same category
The company’s contributions include generous support for Division One League clubs, sponsorship of Volta Regional football leagues, consistent assistance with travel expenses for regional athletic teams, and significant contributions to the renovation of the Ho Sports Stadium.
Afe Lotto is also the main sponsor of Division One League side, Home Stars Football Club, currently competing in the Division One League in Zone 3.KGL and Access Bank were also honoured in the same category.
The SWAG Awards is an annual event that acknowledges excellence in sports and recognizes contributions to Ghana’s sports development.This year’s theme was “Gold and Glory: A Call for Change in National Orientation and Investment in Sports.”
Notably, Afe Lotto was one of the many sponsors of the 49th SWAG.
President John Dramani Mahama has assured the people of the Volta Region that his administration will prioritize their development needs, declaring that “your days of neglect are over”.
Speaking at a grand durbar held at the Ho Jubilee Park on Friday, during his ‘Thank You’ tour, President Mahama outlined several key projects aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the region. He announced plans to reconstruct the Ho-Denu Road, complete the Have-Hohoe, Dodo Pepesu-Nkwanta Road, and Kpasa-Nkwanta stretch of the Eastern corridor road.
President Mahama addressing the gathering (C) Facebook/Asogli state
President Mahama also revealed plans to reintroduce commercial flights to the Ho Airport, establish a pilot training school at the facility, and redevelop the abandoned Regional Youth Resource Centre at Adaklu-Tsriefe. Additionally, he announced plans to expand the Kpeve and Adidome water treatment plants, which will improve access to clean water for the local communities.
The President further stated that the Keta Port and the Sea Defence project remain high on the development agenda, and expressed gratitude to the Traditional Authorities in the Region for their guidance and pledged closer collaboration. “Our objective to reset Ghana begins in the Volta Region. Together, we will ensure every Ghanaian feels included in national affairs,” he said.
The Agbogbomefia of Asogli, Togbe Afede XIV, praised President Mahama, describing his return to power as a beacon of hope for Ghanaians. Togbe Afede XIV also thanked the President for appointing a new Regional Minister who has shown genuine interest in serving the people, a departure from the previous Regional Minister.
Togbe Afede flanked by Mama Akua Deh, Paramount Queenmother of Asogli
The event was graced by several stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders, party supporters, and cultural troupes, who added colour and excitement to the occasion.
President Mahama was accompanied by a delegation of prominent figures from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), including Parliamentarians, Ministers, and senior government and party functionaries.
President Mahama in a tet-a-tet with the Volta Regional-Designate, Hon. James Gunu
The Volta Development Forum (VDF) has congratulated the illustrious sons and daughters of the Volta Region appointed to serve in President John Dramani Mahama’s government.
In a statement signed by Dr. Prince Kofi Kludjeson, President of the VDF, the Forum expressed its delight at the appointment of Hon. James Gunu, Hon. Prosper Bani, Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza, Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, Hon. Dzifa Gomashie, Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, Afetsi Awoonor, Stan Xoese Dogbe, Wisdom Deku, and Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle.
The VDF described the appointments as a testament to the confidence reposed in the appointees by President Mahama, and a recognition of their expertise and dedication to public service.
Dr. Kludjeson said the VDF was committed to working closely with the appointees to champion development interventions in the Volta Region and beyond, and to support the government’s efforts to promote socio-economic development and improve the lives of Ghanaians.
The VDF President also expressed the hope that the appointees would use their positions to promote the development of the Volta Region, and to address the challenges facing the region.
The statement concluded by wishing the appointees well in their endeavours to help President Mahama “reset Ghana”, and to promote the development of the country.
President John Dramani Mahama will today, January 24, visit the Volta Region as part of his nationwide thank you tour.
A statement signed by Sorkpa Kafui Agbleze, Volta Regional Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), said the visit was to express gratitude to the people of the region for their overwhelming support in the 2024 presidential election.
The President would attend a thanksgiving event at the Ho Jubilee Park at 12:00 noon, where he would be welcomed with a grand durbar of chiefs, queen mothers, opinion leaders and other key stakeholders.
The statement invited all party members, supporters and residents of the Volta Region to join in welcoming the President, adding that they should wear white attire as a symbol of unity and appreciation.
The visit comes on the heels of recent acts of vandalism at the Ho Central NDC party office by some disgruntled party supporters over the non-inclusion of Ho Central in the President’s Ministerial appointments.
The Asogli State Council has condemned the recent destruction and burning of office equipment at the Ho Central Constituency Office of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a statement signed by Mr. Stephen Tetteh, Secretary of the Asogli State Council, the Council expressed deep concern about the vandalism, which was allegedly carried out by some disgruntled party supporters.
The Council urged the supporters to refrain from any acts that may compromise the peace and unity of the party, and to support President John Dramani Mahama’s efforts to achieve his vision of resetting Ghana.
The statement also emphasized the importance of dialogue and due process in addressing grievances, and called on the party leadership to engage constructively with members and foster inclusiveness.
The Asogli State Council appealed to the general public to maintain peace and harmony, and to focus on the collective good of all Ghanaians.
