OBONU News Room

18/07/2025

GJA-Tema Chairman Pledges Open-Door Leadership

The newly elected Chairman of the Tema Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Michael Dewornu, has pledged to adopt an open-door leadership style that promotes unity and collective progress within the association.

Speaking to Obonu News in Tema, Mr. Dewornu expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him, describing his new role as both a humbling and privileged opportunity to lead a group of distinguished intellectuals in the media fraternity.

“I am deeply humbled and privileged to lead this noble association – the GJA in the Tema Region. I do not take this responsibility for granted,” he said.

Mr. Dewornu emphasized the need for continuous learning and collaboration, stating, “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other. That is why I am calling on every member to bring their expertise to bear on our collective growth. We must move as one destination.”

He called for the unwavering support of all journalists in the region to help him succeed in his new role, adding that an inclusive and progressive GJA-Tema remains his topmost priority.

The newly installed chairman concluded with a call to action: “Continuous learning is a must. Thank you all, and I seek your support as we work together to advance journalism in the Tema region.”

17/07/2025

17/07/2025

Ghana Losing Mangrove Forests at Alarming Rate – Hen Mpoano Project Manager Warns

Project Manager of Hen Mpoano, Justice Mensah, has raised serious concern over the rapid depletion of mangrove forests in Ghana’s coastal regions, particularly in areas prone to tidal waves. According to him, the country's mangrove cover is shrinking at an alarming rate, threatening both ecological stability and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Mr. Mensah made the remarks during a day-long workshop held in Cape Coast to socialise a report on Ghana’s Mangroves. Discussions focused on the importance, vulnerability, and sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems. The event was organized by Hen Mpoano for the Journalists for Responsible Fisheries and Environment with support from the Norwegian Government through the Sustainable Oceans Project.

Mangroves in Ghana, though often overlooked, are vital yet increasingly vulnerable. The country is home to four dominant salt-tolerant mangrove species that provide numerous ecological and economic benefits. These include protection against coastal erosion and flooding, carbon sequestration, and support for local biodiversity.

Economically, mangroves are deeply integrated into coastal livelihoods—especially in communities such as Ada and Anlo—where they are widely harvested for fuelwood used in fish-smoking. Experts, including Dr. Reddy, emphasized how this reliance on mangrove wood connects to broader sectors like energy and petroleum due to its high heat yield and market value.

However, the unsustainable harvesting practices, coupled with limited conservation initiatives, are pushing these ecosystems to the brink. Mr. Mensah warned that if urgent measures are not taken to protect and restore mangroves, the country risks losing one of its most effective natural barriers against climate impacts such as tidal waves and flooding.

Participants at the workshop called for strengthened policy enforcement, public education, and community-based conservation initiatives to safeguard Ghana’s mangrove heritage.

17/07/2025

DAWHENYA RICE FARMERS CRY FOR HELP AS COST OF FARM INPUTS

At a time when the Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, is urging Ghanaians to patronize locally produced rice, rice farmers at the Dawhenya Irrigation Project site in the Ningo-Prampram District say they are struggling to stay afloat due to the high cost of farm machinery and inputs.

The farmers, who play a crucial role in the country's rice production efforts, say the increasing prices of tractors, combined harvesters, and other essential agricultural inputs are hampering their productivity and threatening Ghana’s food security.

Speaking to GBC-Obonu News during a visit to the Dawhenya Rice Irrigation site, a young rice farmer, Oko Martey, expressed deep concern over what he describes as a lack of adequate support from authorities.

“We appreciate the government’s campaign encouraging Ghanaians to eat made-in-Ghana rice, but it must go beyond slogans. We need action. The prices of machinery are beyond our reach, and without them, our work is nearly impossible,” Mr. Martey lamented.

He called on the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, to intervene by providing timely information, affordable machinery, and access to resources that will enable them to produce rice efficiently and sustainably.

Mr. Martey emphasized that protecting farmers at Dawhenya and other irrigation sites is critical to safeguarding the country’s food security.

The Dawhenya Rice Irrigation Project is one of the key rice-producing hubs in the Greater Accra Region and has been instrumental in boosting local rice supply. However, challenges such as high input costs, land encroachment, and inadequate policy implementation continue to threaten its full potential.

Farmers are therefore appealing to government and relevant stakeholders to address their concerns urgently to sustain Ghana’s rice self-sufficiency agenda.

17/07/2025

OSP Charges Mustapha Hamid and Other NPA Officials Over GHC280 Million Extortion and Money Laundering Scheme

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has formally pressed charges against the Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, along with several high-ranking officials of the Authority, in connection with an alleged GHC280 million extortion and money laundering scheme.

In a press release issued by the OSP on Wednesday, the accused are alleged to have masterminded a wide-reaching criminal network within the downstream petroleum sector, extorting funds from petroleum marketing companies and laundering the proceeds through a complex web of corporate and individual accounts.

According to the Special Prosecutor, the charges follow months of investigations involving surveillance, financial audits, and testimonies from whistleblowers and affected businesses. The investigations reportedly uncovered unauthorized levies, coercive payment demands, and suspicious transactions that violated both the Anti-Money Laundering Act and provisions of Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act.

“The scheme appears to have been carefully coordinated to enrich a select group of officials within the NPA, at the expense of transparency and the interests of the petroleum sector,” the OSP stated.

Dr. Hamid and the implicated staff face a range of charges, including conspiracy to commit crime, extortion, abuse of public office, and money laundering. If found guilty, they could face lengthy prison sentences and asset forfeitures.

Meanwhile, civil society groups and anti-corruption campaigners have lauded the OSP’s bold action, calling for swift prosecution and systemic reforms within the NPA.

As of press time, the NPA has not issued an official statement. However, sources close to the Authority suggest emergency meetings are underway to assess the potential fallout of the scandal.

The accused are expected to appear before the High Court (Criminal Division) in Accra later this week.

17/07/2025

President Mahama Takes 'Thank You Tour' to Ashanti Region, Reiterates Commitment to Inclusive Development

Former President and Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has extended his nationwide ‘Thank You Tour’ to the Ashanti Region, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the people for their unwavering support in the 2024 general elections.

Addressing enthusiastic supporters, traditional leaders, and party faithful in Kumasi, President Mahama thanked the region for its growing trust in the NDC and reaffirmed his dedication to national unity, development, and accountability.

"The Ashanti Region holds a special place in our national journey. Your support and engagement give meaning to the democratic process, and I am here to say a big thank you,” he said.

Mr. Mahama used the opportunity to highlight his vision for an inclusive and prosperous Ghana, promising to prioritize job creation, infrastructure expansion, and anti-corruption efforts should he be given the mandate again.

He also called on party supporters to remain united and vigilant as the NDC prepares for the task of governance, emphasizing the need for peace and collaboration across political lines.

During his tour, President Mahama paid courtesy calls on prominent chiefs, including the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to seek counsel and blessing. He was accompanied by key members of the NDC leadership, including National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and General Secretary Fifi Kwetey.

The Ashanti Region leg of the tour is part of Mr. Mahama’s broader outreach effort to thank Ghanaians across all sixteen regions for their support during the 2024 elections and to re-engage citizens on the party’s policy direction ahead of the 2028 polls.

17/07/2025

Dawhenya Rice Farmers Decry Land Encroachment Amidst Government’s Rice Import Substitution Agenda

Dawhenya, Greater Accra Region – As the Government of Ghana intensifies efforts to reduce rice importation and promote local production through import substitution strategies, rice farmers at the Dawhenya Irrigation Project in the Ningo-Prampram District are raising red flags over growing threats to their livelihoods.

The farmers say rapid encroachment on their farmlands by individuals and real estate developers is severely affecting rice production at the once-thriving irrigation site.

Speaking to GBC-Obonu News during a visit to the fields, the Head of Channel “C” farm area, Mr. Gabriel Paditey, expressed deep frustration over what he described as a persistent struggle against land grabbers.

“We are already burdened by high costs of farm inputs like fertilizers and other essentials. Now we also have to fight to protect the very land we cultivate. How can we help feed the country when our farms are being taken away?” Mr. Paditey lamented.

He noted that despite being within an officially designated irrigation zone, large portions of the farmland have been lost to encroachment in recent years, with no firm intervention from the appropriate authorities.

The Obonu News team visited the site during the screening period—a key phase of the farming cycle—where several farmers could be seen attending to their rice paddies under increasingly challenging conditions.

The rice farmers are therefore calling on the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, as well as the Lands Commission and District authorities, to take urgent steps to halt the encroachment and protect the Dawhenya Irrigation Scheme, which plays a critical role in national food security.

They warn that failure to act swiftly will derail Ghana’s goal of reducing dependence on imported rice and achieving self-sufficiency in local rice production.

17/07/2025

Fishers at Old Ningo Decry Scarcity of Premix Fuel Despite Automated Filling Station

Old Ningo, Greater Accra Region – Artisanal fishers at the Old Ningo Canoe Landing Beach have raised concerns over the persistent shortage and erratic supply of premix fuel, despite the construction of an automated premix fuel filling station at the site two years ago.

Speaking to GBC-Obonu News during a visit to the landing beach basin, Chief Fisherman Nene Nartey expressed deep frustration over what he described as poor handling of premix fuel distribution by authorities.

According to him, since the commissioning of the automated station, fishers have only received two consignments of premix fuel, with the last supply arriving about four months ago. He said the shortage is hampering fishing activities, forcing many fishers to resort to unsafe and expensive alternatives.

“After the announcement by the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Madam Emelia Arthur, that artisanal fishers are exempt from the closed fishing season, premix fuel has become more expensive and scarce. We now have to mix regular vehicle fuel with oil or travel as far as Ashaiman to buy from 'goro boys' at exorbitant prices,” Nene Nartey lamented.

He warned that these practices are not only dangerous but also affect the quality of fishing expeditions, putting the livelihoods of hundreds of fishers at risk.

The Chief Fisherman appealed to the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture and the National Premix Fuel Secretariat to review the current distribution system and ensure consistent supply to all landing beaches, especially those with existing infrastructure like Old Ningo.

“We cannot continue to operate this way. If the premix station is there, why is fuel not being delivered?” he questioned.

The artisanal fishing community, which plays a crucial role in the nation’s food security and employment, hopes the authorities will act swiftly to address the issue.

17/07/2025

TEMA GJA Chairman Michael Dewornu Meets London Mayor to Explore Opportunities for Journalists

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has reiterated his city's commitment to strengthening partnerships with Africa, particularly in education, innovation, and the creative industries, during a high-level engagement at the University of Ghana as part of his ongoing five-day African tour.

Addressing students, academics, and selected media professionals at the event, Mayor Khan emphasized the importance of cross-continental collaboration and the vital role international students and professionals play in shaping London’s economic and cultural future.

Among the invited Ghanaian media figures was Michael Dewornu, a correspondent with the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBCNEWS) and Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Tema Branch. Mr. Dewornu used the occasion to engage the London Mayor on ways to revitalize the sister city relationship between Tema and London, originally established in 1999, to create new opportunities for journalists and young professionals.

Highlighting the shared position of both cities along the Greenwich Meridian at zero degrees longitude, Mr. Dewornu noted the symbolic and historical significance of this alignment. He proposed that the connection be used as a foundation for renewed cooperation in media development, including exchange programmes, training opportunities, and scholarships for Ghanaian journalists — particularly those based in Tema.

> “Mr. Mayor, Tema and London share a unique geographical and historic tie. I believe it is time we deepen that relationship practically, especially in education and professional development for journalists,” Mr. Dewornu stated. “Exchanges, partnerships with London-based media institutions, and opportunities for African journalists to experience the UK’s media culture would significantly strengthen democratic communication across our borders.”

Mr. Dewornu’s participation follows a recent sponsored visit to Imperial College London, where he joined other Ghanaian journalists in a science and innovation reporting programme funded by the UK Embassy in Ghana. The initiative enabled participants to interact with leading UK institutions and foster collaboration in science communication and media excellence. Mr. Dewornu described the experience as “transformative” and timely in shaping future international media partnerships.

In his keynote address, Mayor Khan stressed the value of maintaining international openness, noting that international students bring over £60 billion in benefits to the UK economy. He warned against policies that discourage global engagement and underscored London's continued openness to talent and ideas from across the world.

> “Their contribution to our education system, innovation, and community life cannot be overstated,” Mayor Khan said, citing recent data from his office.

He also expressed keen interest in strengthening city-to-city partnerships with African urban centers such as Tema, focusing on youth development, cultural exchange, and sustainable growth.

Mr. Dewornu later described his engagement with the Mayor as a “fruitful opportunity” to elevate Tema's profile internationally and advocate for practical media development support. He added that the Tema GJA branch would soon present strategic proposals to the UK High Commission in Ghana and other partners to pursue the ideas discussed.

The London Mayor’s visit to Ghana forms part of a broader UK initiative to bolster ties with African nations through cooperation in climate action, youth empowerment, trade, and the creative economy.

17/07/2025

President Mahama Pledges Action and Accountability During Western North Thank You Tour

President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his government’s commitment to delivering transparent, humble, and people-centered leadership as he continues his national thank-you tour following his victory in the 2024 general elections.

Addressing a durbar of chiefs and residents in Sefwi Wiawso, the regional capital, President Mahama expressed heartfelt gratitude for the trust and support reposed in him and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) by the people of the Western North Region.

“By the faith you have placed in my leadership and that of the NDC, you have given us the responsibility to serve you, and we shall do so with humility, transparency, and commitment,” the President said, adding, “And I pledge to you that we shall not disappoint you.”

The President stressed that his administration is determined to reset Ghana’s development agenda—not through mere rhetoric, but with tangible actions aimed at improving lives and ensuring inclusive growth.

“We will fight poverty, we will reduce inequality, we will restore accountability, and we will build a country that works for everyone, not just a few people,” he declared.

President Mahama also used the occasion to acknowledge the unwavering support and patience of traditional authorities and residents across the region.

“To the Chiefs and people of the Western North Region, I thank you for your unwavering support, your patience, and your hope,” he said.

Calling for unity and cooperation, the President urged all Ghanaians to join hands in building a prosperous and just society.

“Together, let us build a new Ghana. A Ghana of fairness, a Ghana of jobs, justice, and shared prosperity,” he emphasized.

President Mahama ended his remarks with a patriotic appeal:
“May God bless our beloved nation, Ghana, and make our nation great and strong.”

The Western North Region stop is part of a nationwide tour by the President to thank Ghanaians for their electoral support and to outline his policy direction as his administration begins a new term in off

17/07/2025

Energy Minister Decries Neglect of Tema Oil Refinery; Debt Hits $570 Million

The Minister for Energy, John Abdulai Jinapor, has raised alarm over the deteriorating state of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), revealing that the facility has seen no significant improvement in recent years, leaving it virtually non-operational.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series media briefing in Accra, the Minister said the refinery has been "left to rot" under years of neglect, with its debt stock ballooning to alarming levels.

"As of December 2024, the debt stock of the Tema Oil Refinery stood at $570 million. When the previous administration took office, the debt was $350 million, meaning nearly $200 million in fresh debt has been added under the watch of that government," Mr. Jinapor stated.

He further revealed that the refinery has not published its audited financial accounts since 2019—an issue the current administration is working to rectify. "We have since engaged auditors to conduct a full audit and submit their findings to SIGA and the government for appropriate action," he disclosed.

In an effort to restore operations, Mr. Jinapor announced that a turnaround maintenance team has been commissioned under the leadership of the new management, with a focus on reviving the refinery and bringing it back on stream.

"The new management, under the leadership of His Excellency President Mahama, is relying on internally generated funds (IGF) to kick-start the refinery's operations," he said.

The Minister expressed optimism that with a committed leadership and financial discipline, TOR can regain its relevance in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector. He encouraged the current management to “give of their best” in revitalizing the country's only oil refinery.

The Tema Oil Refinery, once a critical pillar in Ghana’s energy landscape, has in recent years struggled with underinvestment, mismanagement, and operational setbacks.