Journalists Tasked to Be Gender-Sensitive in Reporting on Female Politicians

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November 23, 2023

BY: Shallom Abla Lumor | Voltaonlinegh.com |

Ms. Shamima Muslim, the convenor of the Alliance for Women in Media Africa (AWMA), has urged Ghanaian reporters to adopt a gender-sensitive approach when covering female political aspirants.

According to Ms. Muslim, female candidates often encounter negativity influenced by cultural and religious factors during their political campaigns. Therefore, journalists bear the responsibility of instilling hope by choosing appropriate language and highlighting the strengths of these aspirants in their reporting.

She emphasized, “We must recognize that any female aspirant taking on the challenge of political elections has courageously stepped into a domain dominated by men. Consequently, the media should support these women by focusing on their strengths and political messages, steering clear of toxic narratives about female leadership.”

Ms. Muslim made these remarks at a recently concluded training workshops organized for journalists and selected female political aspirants gearing up for district-level elections on December 19th, 2023.

The workshop, themed “Enhancing Inclusive Participation in Local Governance in Ghana Through Capacity-building for Journalists and Female Political Aspirants,” was organized by AWMA with funding support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI). Its primary focus was to equip female aspirants with communication skills and sensitize media practitioners to report in a gender-sensitive manner.

During the training, female aspirants received practical guidance on presenting themselves and their campaign messages effectively to the media and voters alike. Journalists were also encouraged to maximize media visibility for these female aspirants to aid them in reaching their target audience.

The training sessions were conducted in three regions of Ghana: Greater Accra, Ashanti Region, and the Northern Regions. Ten female aspirants were carefully selected from each region to benefit from this capacity-building initiative.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Ho: Tragic Accident Claims Lives of Nursing Mother, Baby, and 8 Others

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Volta Online

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November 22, 2023

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BY: Lambert Coffie|Voltaonlinegh.com|
In yet another tragic incident at the foot of the Galenkui mountain in Ho (OLA Top), the Volta Regional capital, a nursing mother and her baby, along with eight other passengers, lost their lives on Tuesday afternoon.

The victims were on board a mini Benz bus with registration number GR 1645 W, descending into town when the vehicle’s brakes failed, leading to a collision with an oncoming garbage collection truck owned by Zoomlion.

The impact of the collision was so severe that it forced the heavy-duty truck off the road, leaving the mini-bus mangled beyond description. Additionally, some livestock on top of the mini-bus also perished in the accident.

The mangled mini-bus. Photo (C) Graphic Online

Eyewitnesses informed Volta Online that personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service spent about 30 minutes extricating the trapped truck driver, while the bodies of the victims were scattered on the road.

Personnel of the Ambulance Service, swiftly transported the deceased and other yet-to-be-identified injured victims to the Ho Teaching Hospital.

This tragic incident adds to a series of accidents that have occurred in recent weeks along the same stretch of road. Fortunately, the previous incidents did not result in any fatalities.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

OTI: Curfew Imposed in Nkwanta Township Following Deadly Ethnic Tensions

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Volta Online

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November 22, 2023

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BY: News Desk | Voltaonlinegh.com |

The Minister of the Interior Mr. Ambrose Dery, has imposed a curfew on the Nkwanta township and its environs in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region. The curfew as per an executive instrument, is effective, Tuesday, November 21, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 6:00 am each day.

The decision comes in response to recent reported ethnic tensions in the area, resulting in the tragic death of eight individuals due to sporadic shooting at the local market on Monday. Several others, including a police officer, have sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the St. Joseph Catholic Hospital in the district capital. Some houses have also be reported burnt in the process.

The minister in a statement called upon the chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, youth, and residents of the area to exercise restraint in the face of the challenges confronting them. He urged them to utilize established mechanisms for conflict resolution and dispute settlement.

In addition, the ministry placed a ban on all individuals in the municipality and its surroundings from carrying arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons in the area. It warned anyone found with offensive weapons will be subject to arrest and prosecution.

Meanwhile, there is heavy deployment of security personnel in the town to maintain law and order, while, some residents are reported have flee the area, as a result of the tension.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

GJA/US Embassy Peaceful Election Reporting Workshop Held in Ho

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Volta Online

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November 17, 2023

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BY: Daniel Orlando | voltaonlinegh.com |
The Ghana Journalists Association in collaboration with the US Embassy in Ghana, has organised a day’s training workshop for selected media practitioners within the Volta and Oti Regions.

The workshop, formed part of a nine-month project aimed at promoting peaceful media platforms ahead of the 2024 elections. It also served as a platform for learning and information sharing among journalists.

The US Embassy-funded project will empower journalists and related agencies, such as political parties and security services, to contribute to violence-free and credible polls across the country.

In an address read by the General Secretary of the Association, Kofi Yeboah, on behalf of the President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, gratitude was expressed to the U.S. Embassy Ghana for their continuous support of the media fraternity.

Mr. Dwumfour acknowledged the pivotal role of the media as the fourth estate in the upcoming elections and safeguarding the country’s democracy.

The GJA president described the project as one that will equip Ghanaian journalists to uphold the journalistic tenets of Press Freedom and freedom of expression while promoting professionalism.

The training, include conflict management, accurate reporting, fact-checking, peace-sensitive reporting, and election coverage, will enable journalists to produce self-initiated projects, such as news reports and impactful stories, towards credible elections.

Emmanuel Agbaxode, Chairman for GJA Volta/Oti, mentioned in his address that the training will afford practitioners in the region the opportunity to focus on fostering peaceful election discourse.

Mr. Agbaxode noted that Ghana boasts a commendable record in holding and managing elections but added that there is always room for improvement to enhance contributions to national stability and development.

“In the evolving media landscape, your roles as watchdogs, educators, informers, and advocates for what is right are more critical than ever. With the influx of social media, we must navigate the challenges it presents, using these platforms responsibly to uphold the integrity of our profession.”

He urged all media practitioners to leverage communication channels for positive impact and not succumb to normalizing media abuse but champion the right use of media freedom, making misuse unattractive, awkward, and taboo.

Rebecca Ekpe, the Public Relations Officer of GJA and the Project Lead, stated that the project will offer journalists the opportunity to contribute to violence-free and credible polls in Ghana before, during, and after the elections in 2024.

According to the Project Lead, journalists and on-air personalities, especially from local language-speaking stations, will be identified and trained to engage in peaceful discourse that will help GJA promote long-term learning for media practitioners, upholding freedom of expression and credible polls. It will also encourage the sharing of information among journalists and election-related entities to better inform the work of the Electoral Commission of Ghana.

The training workshop is the first in series since its launch in Accra and is expected to be carried out around the country.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com|

Kpando SHS Launches Infrastructure Fund; First Sky Group Chairman Donates GHC1 Million Seed Fund

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Volta Online

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November 14, 2023

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Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com|

The Executive Chairman of First Sky Group, Eric Seddy Kutortse, has launched an Infrastructure Endowment Fund for Kpando Senior High School during the 70th-anniversary durbar of the school over the weekend.

Mr. Kutortse, an old student of the school, said the endowment fund would help to address the numerous infrastructural challenges facing the institution.

Highlighting that contributions from former students and corporate entities would result in a significant expansion of infrastructure, Mr. Kutortse expressed confidence that this development would attract and retain high-quality tutors, and ultimately contribute to the attainment of desired educational standards.

Mr. Eric Kutortse, was the Guest Speaker at the Anniversary Durbar

To kickstart the initiative, Mr. Kutortse generously donated GHS 1,000,000 as seed funding and proposed a quarterly contribution of GHS 100 from former students. He envisioned that this ongoing support would accumulate over GHc 40 million within five years, to support the school’s landmark infrastructure projects for its Diamond Jubilee anniversary.

The school’s Headmaster, Mr. Charles Evans Apreku, shared in his address that the current student population stands at 3,210. He acknowledged the school’s outstanding performance in the recent West Africa Examination Council and attributed the increased demand for admission to the institution, placing strain on their existing facilities.

Mr. Apreku appealed to the government to prioritize the provision of adequate infrastructure to create a conducive environment for teaching and learning. He stressed the importance of meeting the challenges posed by the growing demand for admission.

Representing the Education Minister, Dr. Eric Nkansah, the Director-General of Ghana Education Service, commended the school’s management for producing outstanding students. Dr. Nkansah assured continued government support for quality education, citing ongoing efforts to enhance science laboratories and establish STEM schools across the country.

The 70th-anniversary grand durbar was chaired by the Paramount Chief of Akpini traditional area, Okpekpewuokpe Togbe Dagadu IV, and brought together alumni from various backgrounds for a weekend-long celebration at the school. The event showcased the strong sense of community among past students, highlighting their commitment to the school’s legacy and future success.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Fodome Traditional Area Donates GHS25,000 to Flood Victims’ Disaster Relief Fund

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Volta Online

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November 13, 2023

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BY: News Desk | voltaonlinegh.com|

The Chiefs and people of Fodome Traditional Area in the Hohoe Municipality have extended support to flood victims of the lower Volta basin through the newly established Volta Region House of Chiefs Disaster Relief Fund, responding to the flood devastation.

A delegation from the area, led by Togbe Diabo XIV, a divisional chief of Fodome Hloma, with support from Togbe Kottoh IV, Mankralo of Fodome Woe, and Mama Dzigbordzi Koto IV, Divisional Queen of Fodome Woe, presented a cheque for GHS25,000 to the President of the Regional House of Chiefs, Togbe Tepre Hodo in Ho last Thursday, towards the relief efforts of the house.

According to Togbe Diabo, the disaster was of a grave concern to the people of Fodome, hence, viewed the regional house initiative as a means to collectively aid those impacted.

“We want to assure our fellow citizens in the flood-affected areas that we stand with them and will offer support whenever the opportunity arises.”

Togbe Tepre Hodo, President of the Regional House of Chiefs, who received the donation, conveyed profound appreciation to the chiefs and people of Fodome Traditional area, as well as their paramount chief, Togbe Gbodegbleme Akpatsa II, for their generous contribution.

He noted, “they have indeed set the example with their contribution to the disaster fund.”

Togbe Tepre Hodo revealed that the fund, established a few weeks ago, had accumulated close to GHS100,000, and commended all contributors, including the Volta Regional Minister and “countless other donors.”

“It’s very impressive, but we can do better. We are looking forward to making a meaningful donation to the victims by Christmas.”

The Volta Region House of Chiefs established the relief fund a few days after the flooding and is collaborating with GBC Volta Star Radio in Ho and Radio Gold in Accra to promote the fund.

An account, “Volta Region House of Chiefs Disaster Relief Fund” – 5011180003678, GCB Ho Main Branch, has been designated for contributions.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Edem Gets Ambassadorial Role Ahead of Volta Fair 2023

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Volta Online

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November 13, 2023

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BY: News Desk | Voltaonlinegh.com |

Renowned musician Edem Go-Get’em, known in real life as Denning Edem Hotor, has been officially unveiled as the Brand Ambassador for the Volta Trade and Investment Fair. This prestigious appointment places Edem among other distinguished personalities such as Citi FM/TV’s Bernard Avle, Emefa Apawu, and Mama Owusu-Aboagye from the Multimedia Group, Kafui Dey from the State Broadcaster, GBC, Seyram Amakpa-Azasu, Technical Advisor for Diaspora Engagement at GIZ Ghana, and Ivy Prosper, the Social Media Manager of Beyond the Return Secretariat.

The Brand Ambassador will promote all activities of the Volta Trade and Investment Fair and the region on all platforms, including social and traditional media.

A press release from the organisers copied Volta Online stated that, over the years, Edem has tirelessly worked to promote the Volta Region, earning himself a special place in the hearts of the local community. With his deep commitment to the region, he has undertaken numerous initiatives that have furthered the region’s interests and development.

Expressing his excitement at becoming a Volta Brand Ambassador, Edem has eagerly embraced the responsibility to generate enthusiasm and interest in the upcoming Volta Trade and Investment Fair. He warmly invites both the global audience and his devoted fans to join him at the Ho Sports Stadium from November 26 to December 10, where they can immerse themselves in the charm of the Volta Region, enjoy its hospitality, and experience its unique offerings, both in culture and commerce. In his own words, “Come to Volta Fair 2023, Visit Volta, Experience Volta, Taste Volta.”

Mr. Dela Gadzanku, Chairman of the Association of Ghana Industries for the Eastern, Volta, and Oti regions, commended Edem’s exceptional bond with his home region. He emphasized that Edem’s unwavering love and commitment to the Volta Region make him an invaluable asset as a Volta Brand Ambassador. Mr. Gadzanku encouraged Edem to leverage his international reach to promote the region and attract investments to unlock its vast untapped potential.

The Volta Trade and Investment Fair, organized by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) in collaboration with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council and the Ghana Tourism Authority, is a biennial event dedicated to promoting businesses across Ghana and the broader African continent.

This year’s Fair is under the theme ‘Leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area for Economic Development’.

Alongside the exhibition of products and services, the fair will feature a diverse array of activities, including seminars and entertainment events. These include the Women Summit, Youth Summit, Sports Development Summit, and a Workshop on Horticulture and Horticulture Export. Other exciting events include the Regional Farmers Day, Kente Festival, Beer Festival, Miss Volta Fair 2023, a food court, and a musical concert.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

GIPC Holds Sensitisation Forum for Volta Businesses

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Volta Online

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November 12, 2023

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BY: Lambert Coffie | voltaonlinegh.com|

The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) has organized a one-day sensitization forum in the Volta Region, targeting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and various stakeholders.

The event, which brought together key government and private entities, including the Regional Coordinating Council, Ghana Export Promotion Authority, Ghana Enterprises Agency, EXIM bank, and Municipal and District Assemblies, was aimed at enlightening participants about the GIPC’s role and how leverage its support systems within Ghana’s investment landscape.

Madam Evelyn Nyarko, the Director of Investor Services at GIPC, highlighted essential aspects of GIPC’s functions during the forum. She encouraged businesses to register and make use of GIPC’s service offerings. She assured businesses in the region of the Centre’s commitment to assisting them in navigating the business landscape and addressing potential challenges.

She also underscored the significance of processing and profiling businesses, emphasizing that this step would enable them to attract support from financial institutions.

Madam Nyarko further disclosed that, a total of 55 companies with over 100 million dollars worth of investment were registered in the region since 1994. She however, expressed concern about the underrepresentation of region’s hospitality and tourism industry in the GIPC’s database and urged businesses in the sector to capitalize on GIPC offerings for Ghanaian-owned businesses, ensuring their sustained prosperity.

Mr. Augustus Awity, Chief Director of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, who represented the Regional Minister, urged Municipal and District Assemblies (MDAs) to capitalize on business development projects.

These projects, he suggested, could be packaged by the GIPC as Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives to drive the region’s development.
He also called for coordination and commitment among all stakeholders and agencies to harmonize the design and preparation of development plans for the region and the country at large.

As part of the Regional Sensitization Tour, the GIPC team also visited some indigenous enterprises in the region to gather first hand information on their operations.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Volta Region Commemorates 78th Remembrance Day with Solemnity and Honour

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Volta Online

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November 12, 2023

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BY: Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com |

The atmosphere of Jubilee Park in the Volta Region was filled with great solemnity as the city hosted the regional commemoration of the 78th Remembrance Day of the Second World War.

Remembrance Day falls on 11th November each year to remember those who sacrificed their lives in World War 1 and 2 for the peace Ghana is enjoying today as a country.

In 1918, the Armistice that ended World War 1 became effective at 11 am on 11th November when the guns fell silent on the Western Front in France and Belgium, signifying the end of four years of hostilities. The day was called Armistice Day.

The day was commemorated with a solemn service and parade under the command of Ft. Lt. Adwoa Kwateman Kwateng of the 66 Artillery Regiment.

The parade consisted of 300 men drawn from the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, Ghana National Fire Service, the Ghana Prisons Service, Ghana Immigration Service, and some members of the Veteran Association of Ghana (VAG).

The event included Christian, Muslim, and traditional prayers, wreath-laying, reading of Binyon verses, blowing of the siren, and sounding of the Last Post at exactly 11:00 hours.

There were also three gun salutes and two minutes of silence in honour of fallen heroes. The Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, laid the first wreath on behalf of the president and the people of Ghana. The Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training School, Commodore Bright Atiayao, laid the second wreath on behalf of the security services in the Region.

Togbe Teprey Hodo, President of Volta Region House of Chiefs laid a wreath on behalf of the Chiefs and people of the region whiles Ex WOI Amegbor laid on behalf of the Veteran Association of Ghana.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com

Shippers Authority Sensitised Police in Volta on Transit Trade

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Volta Online

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November 9, 2023

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BY: Daniel Orlando | Voltaonlinegh.com |

Police officers in the Volta Region underwent specialized training on transit trade, organized by the Ghana Shippers’ Authority in a day-long sensitization workshop held in Ho on Thursday, November 9, 2023.

The initiative, according to the authority, is a vital component of ongoing efforts to elevate the professionalism of law enforcement officers, aimed to amplify transit trade activities on the nation’s trade routes.

During the workshop, Ms. Benonita Bismarck, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, in a speech delivered in her behalf, underscored the significance of such training for police officers. She emphasised the objective of promoting and facilitating transit trade, and its positive impact on the economy and socio-economic development.

Highlighting the evolution of Transit Trade as a substantial aspect of Ghana’s seaborne trade, Ms. Benonita stressed the potential for increased figures if police officers engage with transit truck drivers more professionally. The quantifiable services provided by various operators in transit trade contribute over Ghc408 million cedis to the national economy.

Commending the continuous collaboration between the Ghana Shippers’ Authority and the Ghana Police Service in securing the nation’s transit corridors, Ms. Benonita urged deployed police officers to ensure professionalism in their interactions with truck drivers, aiming to minimize delays and avoid harassments that contribute to increased shipment costs.

Fred Asiedu-Dartey, Head of Freight and Logistics at the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, expressed concerns about the impact of numerous police checkpoints on transit trade. While essential for ensuring safety, these checkpoints often result in undue stops, leading to alleged monetary extortion and negatively affecting the success of transit trade along Ghana’s transit corridor.

Addressing these challenges becomes crucial for making Ghana more competitive in the sub-region, Mr. Asiedu-Dartey stated and urged police officers deployed along the corridors to act as ambassadors of transit trade, recognizing its role as a significant source of revenue for national development.

Among participants were personnel of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Regional Police Command, who are mandated to ensure safety, law and order on the roads.

Source: www.voltaonlinegh.com