Contributor

“Growing up in Africa and working across the continent my career I have come to the conclusion that the only way to effectively solve the myriad of challenges facing Africa is for those at the forefront of bringing about those changes to transform themselves first,” he stated.

Dr. Dodoo, who is also a Senior Strategy Advisor to governments, UN and multilateral institutions was speaking in an interview with Global Award-Winning Management Consultant, Executive Coach, Author, and Speaker Modesta Mahiga on her 360 Leadership Podcast.

Dr. Dodoo thinks current and prospective African leaders need the to have right mindset, competencies, skills, philosophies, and personal values to couch their vision, if they were to effectively addresses the challenges of the continent.

He explained that Africa is a very multi-dimensional continent with several cultures, religions, systems and structures, but many people don’t take the time to understand the continent and it’s dynamics before choosing to take leadership positions on the continent.

According to him the philosophy of the Africans, their indigenous systems and structures in terms of how things are done on the continent are all things that need to be properly unravelled through anthropological studies to serve as a resource for anyone who desires to be at the forefront of Africa’s transformation.

"Anyone seeking to lead in any African country - whether in politics, business or within the socio-economic space with a vision to help transform Africa must first transform themselves and rethink their approach to dealing with the peoples, systems and structures.

”You can’t give what you don’t have - that is the philosophy I am driving right now,” said Dr. Dodoo, who is also a renowned voice on youth leadership, influence and self transformation for effective governance.

Dr. Dodoo further stated that several Africans with the benefit of western education who are seeking leadership roles in Africa tend to think they wield some superior knowledge and skills that makes them better placed than the people on the continent to lead the transformation of the continent, but that notion is wrong.

According to him, having travelled across and worked in at least 36 African countries on the ticket of the UN and other multilateral institution as adviser on human development and consultant to several presidents, he can tell that Africa has very talented and intelligent people, except that the systems, structures and cultures are vast and varied and those are nuisances that anyone seeking to lead the transformation of the continent cannot ignore.

He believes Africa is poised to be at the forefront of global transformation in the 22nd Century, but that will take leaders who are willing to transform themselves, beginning with an introspective look at their own personal inspiration, purpose, and values and how those are linked to their desire to lead African states.

"Anyone seeking to lead the transformation of Africa first needs to ask himself what inspires them, what is their purpose in life and what are the lenses (values) through which the view the world. If those three elements are more selfish than for the greater good then you have no business going into leadership in Africa," he said.

Dr. Dodoo argued that majority of people in politics on the African continent got in either by chance or by accident because a family member or friend was in there and offered them an opportunity to also get in and gain some personal benefit, and that is why the problems of Africa are still not being solved.

He however believes there are still a few people in politics who are driven by a genuine desire to transform the continent and those are his focus to work together with them to get Africa into the position where it can lead the world to glory in the 22nd century.

The elephant and lion analogy

Dr. Dodoo told a mythical story from his late dad, about why the elephant is the biggest animal in the jungle but the lion is the king of the jungle. He said the elephant was seen by all jungle dwellers as problematic because its movement and loud trumpeting sounds usually scared everyone, destroyed plants and made everyone uncomfortable.

The animals and plants therefore met and decided the elephant was a problem that needed to be removed in the interest of everyone. So, they made the lion king and the lion decided that the elephant would serve a better purpose dead than alive. It should be killed and eaten instead of being allowed to move around and scare everyone.

"That is why when there is a big problem at hand in meetings, we often describe it as the 'elephant in the room'. In other words, we need to remove the elephants in leadership positions on the African continent before we can really have peace and the conducive atmosphere to bring transformation," he said. "The elephant in the room in this case refers to those in leadership for selfish interest rather than for the greater good of the continent."

Ghanaian-born African Human Development Expert, Dr. Ishmael Nii Amanor Dodoo has said that anyone who has the desire to play any leadership role in the transformation of Africa must first transform themselves.

Africa needs self-transformed leaders - Dr. Ishmael Dodoo

Following the judgement, in which Justice Baah caused a stir which his description of Anas’ methods as ‘investigative terrorism’, the justice has received significant public backlash, not just from Anas and his allies but the general public.

However, Amidu delivered a stunning defence of the judgement by Justice Baah, along with a brutal takedown of Anas Aremeyaw’s methods, explaining exactly why the court found issues with his case and threw it out.

Amidu’s defence of Justice Baah, despite receiving criticism, was fair, reasoned and legally sound. An experienced lawyer, Amidu grounded his piece in legal precedent, the rule of law, justice, equity and respect for our institutions.

An opinion such as that can be attacked but certainly not impeached.

Amidu’s Point-by-Point Breakdown

Famous all over Ghana for his lengthy writeups reacting to trending issues, Martin Amidu did not disappoint in his reaction to the Anas Aremeyaw Anas case.

He went through the judgment step by step, providing a legal defence of each part of the judgement and why it passes muster.

First, Amidu made clear that whilst there are portions of the judgement one might disagree with - himself included - that in no way, shape or form, empowers one to run down the judgement in the manner Anas and cohorts have done.

“While one may disagree with the judgment or aspects of the judgment of the learned trial judge in the case, no rational person learned in the law can fault the trial judge for the transparent and accountable manner he went about stating the facts, the issues, the burden of proof and other methodological procedure that enabled him to arrive at his evaluation of the evidence and the conclusions upon his appreciation and understanding of the evidence that unfolded before him at the trial,”Amidu wrote.

Following the judgement, Anas is quoted to have said: “My team of lawyers and I have carefully studied the judgement delivered by the court and we are unanimous that the judge made an overreach and descended into the arena and made a criminal pronouncement about me as if I was standing a criminal trial.”

Amidu said despite having the right of appeal, Anas chose to impugn the judgement, a move the former OSP described as a ‘scurrilous abuse of the court’.

Amidu wrote: “The right of appeal is exercisable by both parties up to the Supreme Court provided they guide against abusing the process of the court with spurious actions and appeals. But a losing party or his cohorts who impute partiality or impropriety to the judge or court commit the offence of scandalizing the trial judge, the court, and the administration of justice as an institution and are in contempt of Court whether or not the losing party subsequently files an appeal against the judgment. The decision of Supreme Court in the case of REPUBLIC v MENSA-BONSU &amp; OTHERS, EX PARTE ATTORNEY-GENERAL [1995- 96] 1 GLR 377 governs the situation.

“...The impression that by performing his judicial functions in exercise of the judicial power guaranteed under the 1992 Constitution the trial judge had descended into the arena of conflict is an attack on the independence and impartiality of the judge and constitutes a scurrilous abuse of the court,” Amidu pointed out.

Amidu as always, quotes legal precedence to sustain his point, and little argument can be have over that. There is also something to be said for maintaining integrity in our institutions which he also mentioned.

Amidu laid out a case against multiple anti-corruption agencies in Ghana who have turned their mandate into businesses. Namechecking among others CDD-Ghana, Amidu took down reactions of such agencies to the judgement as based on their misunderstanding of the value of proper investigative journalism and not ‘investigative journalism for hire’ which they freely propagate.

“...Investigatory and prosecutorial ethics…is the foundation of constitutionalism, democracy and the rule of law that upholds the dignity of the citizen from covert state and private unlicensed investigatory overreach for the preservation of the right to be presumed innocent and the right against self-incrimination,” Amidu wrote.

In essence, investigative journalism must be done the right way, with respect to the rights of every individual guaranteed under the constitution. Amidu guards against glorifying the hiring of journalists with political targets to achieve political outcomes.

It is this same warning Justice Baah gave in railing against Anas and his team plotting to entrap President Akufo-Addo and the Ivorian Premier, evidence of which Kennedy Agyapong presented in court. It is in reaction to that line of actions the judge applied the label ‘investigative terrorism’ - which whilst sensational, is essentially referring to the same concerns Amidu raised.

As Justice Baah noted, plotting to take down the sitting leaders of two sovereign nations cannot be justified by any reasons advanced by Anas. If his practice has been weaponised to such levels, it can be justifiably described as ‘investigative terrorism’.

To wit: “The President and the Prime Minister who plaintiff and his team targeted are the leaders of their nations. They embody the soul and spirit of the nations. …., A pre-emptily, unjustified attacks on their credibility, unprovoked by any credible suspicion of a specific act of corruption engaged in or about to be engaged in by them, such as drawing them into a trap so as to be caught in a contrived corruption set up…means the plaintiff through his investigative antics can cause the removal of a president, and thereby upend the mandate given to him at the elections. That is not investigative journalism. It is investigative terrorism.”

“It is an exercise of indirect political power under the cloak of journalism. The serious aspect is that political, enemies of a president who could not stand him at an election, may hire the plaintiff to entrap him to undermine his presidency. Enemies of a state can also hire him just to destroy the political hierarchy,” Justice Baah stated.

It is instructive to note in breaking down the former Special Prosecutor’s write-up to clarify he essentially gave no opinion on the judge’s interpretation of the facts presented before him, but rather clarifying that a judge has a right to make a ruling and an aggrieved party has a right of appeal.

Indeed, Amidu clearly states: “I hold no brief for his (Justice Baah’s) appreciation of the facts, the evidence and conclusions on the law. But he is empowered by the 1992 Constitution to perform his judicial functions and exercise the judicial power entrusted to him as a superior court judge. The appellate process is clearly provided for in the Constitution and laws of Ghana to ensure the rule of law and not the rule of public opinion for the attainment of raw abusive political power.”

Unless being purposefully dishonest, one cannot see Amidu’s stance as anything more than what it is - a lifelong legal professional defending the rights of the judiciary against sustained political attacks.

Amidu was right as always, and if his decades long career in the public spotlight has taught us anything - it is that he was fair and considerate in his response, as he always has been - even in the face of immense political pressure. Amidu has always been his own man and his legal brilliance has never been questioned. There is no reason to imply that has changed.

By: Godwin Nii Armah

Former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Special prosecutor and experienced Ghanaian legal brain, Martin Amidu, sparked a firestorm last week following the release of his reaction to the judgement in the Anas Aremeyaw Anas defamation case against Kennedy Agyapong.

Opinion: In defence of Martin Amidu’s ‘Fair and Reasoned’ assessment of Justice Baah’s Anas judgement

It is a tremendous honour to stand before you all today, at this yearly gathering that has come to mean so much to me. My time at St Augustine’s is one I remember with warmth and pride, and coming back here reminds me of why this place looms so large in my mind, as I look out at my fellow alumni in this audience, distinguished men and women who have brought pride and honour to this institution.

On my desk I keep a few mementos, personal items that inspire me in my work. Among photos of my family and artifacts from my father there is a St Augustine’s plaque, in pride of place, as a reminder of where I hail from and what proud legacy I have to live up to.

As happy an occasion this is, we come together at a difficult time in our nation’s history. We are in the midst of an economic crisis, social unrest and a fundamental lack of faith in the future from the very generation we depend on to build it. It may seem like an odd time to speak about success, but I firmly believe it is not just the right but a crucial time to do so.

It is often said that our leaders must serve as example for our behaviour, that nothing can truly change until they do, but I beg to differ. We must be the change we want to see in our country and each one of us must assume the leadership we seek because if we don’t, success and sustainable development will remain just out of our reach.

Ghana has long suffered with revenue mobilization, despite its abundance of God’s bounty, and though efforts have been made on both political sides, we’ve found ourselves repeatedly seeking relief for the same problems. Our nation needs a new deal, a new path forward, and as an entrepreneur in learning I firmly believe that the path to prosperity is spelled entrepreneurship, as it is what has shaped our world and continues to do so.

Entrepreneurship is something we often pay lip service to, claiming to want our youth to engage in, but we don’t necessarily realize its value until disaster hits. The pandemic not only showed us the true importance of national ingenuity and self reliance but it also democratized the use of technology for the very basic things of life, such as bill payments, food delivery and online education. Suddenly, there was no time for long-winded committee meetings and political debate – we needed new solutions, brave ideas and out-of-the-box thinking.

Fellow apsunians, it is high time for us to invest in shaping these young minds that are on the cusp of adulthood. We need to embrace design thinking in our knowledge dispensing protocols, we need to encourage opinion thinking and individualism, we desperately need to develop tomorrows Zeepay's, Glico, Vanguard, Star Assurance and the many local companies that employ young people and contribute to GDP.

Such change requires commitment from all sides, be they political, civil society or the general public, all bonding together to provide the youth of today with the tools to become the leaders of tomorrow. There are many things that need to go into that toolbox - from startup hubs to mentorship programs, tax incentives for aspiring businesses and easy and safe access to necessary government services – but I would like us today to focus on the less obvious necessities.

I stand before you all today as the founder and CEO of ZeePay, but I didn’t just find myself in that position. My road to success was paved with trial-and-error, disappointment and downright failure, and that is the story of any entrepreneur worth his or her salt.

Fostering a nation of entrepreneurs does not merely require us to build the aforementioned infrastructure to enable financial growth but it also requires us to change the way we measure success in ourselves and how we model it to others.

In this country, we put a high value on social validation, which is a fancy way of saying that we like to show off. The cars, the clothes, the parties, the lifestyle, it is all broadcast throughout our communities and the message is that the destination – not the journey - is what matters and that things equal accomplishment.

That kind of societal culture is poison to the entrepreneurial mind, as it tells him or her that it I better to have US$500 today than US$5000 tomorrow and that success is immediate and lavish, which I can tell you from personal experience is simply not true. Success grows, it doesn’t explode, it is birthed through pain and patience, as anything else which is truly worthwhile.

So how do we change the mindset of our youth, and thereby the fate of our nation? We do so by not just telling our success stories, but also actively sharing the tales of our failures, to normalize the journey of growth and encourage young entrepreneurs to stick it out, to keep going, to try and fail so they may learn and succeed.

My fellow students, I used to sell pineapple juice out of a cart on the street. It was my first business venture and I spent all my waking hours in the sun and dust, many days living off nothing but my own merchandise. I started a diaper business that went bust, a local fabric line that didn’t take off, I fell down and got up again and again until I found my footing. I’m not successful now despite these experiences, I am successful now because of these experiences, and the stories of the journey is just as important for the future graduates of this room to hear as the stories of my destination.

As I look across this room today, I see many successful men and women, fellow alumni who have distinguished careers and flourishing businesses. I will ask of you today to join me in mentorship of those around us who are just starting out, those still roaming these halls and mapping their futures between classes. I ask of you, my peers, to tell them about your journey, about the non starters, the bumps in the road and the failures on the way to success. Let us teach the younger generation what success really is, how it is achieved and the role of perseverance in greatness.

By mentoring our young the right way we will build this country, right our wrongs and instill a Ghanaian dream in our young that is no longer to leave this country but to lead this country, each individual taking responsibility for the future of mother Ghana.

In that vein of responsibility, I would like to use this platform to commit to the establishment of an innovation center on campus and a contribution of GH¢1million to an endowment fund purposely targeted at innovation as part of curricula to develop the beautiful minds that will shape tomorrow. Along with that commitment also comes a promise of an open door to any of you who seek council and mentorship, a humble offer to pay forward the lessons I have learned along the way.

I thank you all for the sincere honor bestowed upon me today, and I extend a special thank you to the 98-year group - congratulations for your tenacity and drive to make this day a success, you are a credit to our great alma mater. Let’s all continue to enjoy this weekend and to take the precious opportunities given here to learn from and with each other. Until we meet again - Ayeeko!

This is a speech delivered by Andrew Takyi-Appiah, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Zeepay at the 93rd-anniversary celebration and Speech and Prize Giving Day of St. Augustine’s College in Cape Coast.

As we have gathered here today under the theme ‘Supporting the foundation that shapes future generations’ I need not remind you that our great school has shaped our fathers before us and will do same for our aspiring young ones seated amidst us today.

Supporting the foundation that shapes future generations - Andrew Takyi-Appiah speaks at St. Augustine’s College

Despite significant progress made in recent years, women continue to face various forms of discrimination and inequalities in all areas of life, including education, employment, and access to resources.

Technology, however, has the potential to advance gender equality in society by providing new opportunities and tools for women to overcome social and economic barriers.

This can be achieved through the following:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Online educational programs: Technology can provide access to educational programs and resources that empower girls and women to learn skills that will help them succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields. Online learning platforms, webinars, and virtual mentorship programs can be especially useful for women who live in rural areas and have limited access to educational opportunities.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Digital financial services: Many women in Ghana lack access to traditional banking services, which limits their ability to participate fully in the economy. By using mobile banking, e-wallets, and other digital financial services, women can have greater control over their finances, access loans, and start their own businesses.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Online marketplaces: Technology can provide women with a platform to sell their products and services online, which can help them expand their customer base and increase their revenue. Online marketplaces can also provide opportunities for women entrepreneurs to network and collaborate with other business owners.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Social media campaigns: Social media platforms can be used to raise awareness about gender inequality issues and promote positive change. For example, social media campaigns can educate the public about the importance of gender equality, highlight success stories of women in various fields, and create a supportive community for women to share their experiences and challenges.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Telemedicine: Technology can provide women with access to healthcare services, especially for those who live in remote areas where healthcare facilities are scarce. Telemedicine services can provide remote consultations, diagnosis, and treatment, which can help women to address their healthcare needs without the need for traveling long distances.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Remote work opportunities: Technology can provide women with flexible work arrangements, which can help them balance work and family responsibilities. By working remotely, women can also access job opportunities that were previously unavailable to them due to geographic barriers or traditional gender roles.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Artificial intelligence (AI): AI can be used to reduce gender bias in various industries, such as hiring, education, and healthcare. By removing human bias from decision-making processes, AI can help to create a more equitable society where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

In conclusion, while gender inequality remains a challenge worldwide, technology provides a powerful tool for advancing gender equality by offering new opportunities and tools for women to overcome social and economic barriers.

Through online educational programs, digital financial services, online marketplaces, social media campaigns, telemedicine, remote work opportunities, and artificial intelligence, women can access resources and opportunities that were previously unavailable to them. Personally, to harness the potential of technology, we can work towards creating a more equitable society where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed regardless of their gender.

The author, Rita Boateng is Customer Experience and Marketing Executive at Old Mutual Ghana.

Gender equality is a fundamental human right, yet it is still a challenge in many parts of the world.

Thoughts on how technology can advance gender equality within society

Mining activities, particularly those related to gold and other precious metals, often involve the use of heavy machinery, which consumes large amounts of energy and generates significant carbon emissions.

As a result, the mining sector in West Africa has faced criticism from environmentalists, local communities, and international organizations concerned about the impact of mining activities on the environment and people's health.

In recent years, however, the mining sector in West Africa has begun to explore the use of carbon credits as a way to address its environmental impact and improve its sustainability. Carbon credits are a way for companies to offset their carbon emissions by investing in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

These projects can include renewable energy, forest conservation, and energy efficiency initiatives. In the mining sector, carbon credits could be used to support projects that reduce emissions from mining activities or offset the emissions that cannot be eliminated.

One potential benefit of using carbon credits in the mining sector is that it could help improve the sector's sustainability. By demonstrating a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mining companies could counter some of the negative perceptions associated with their activities. This could help build public trust and support for the sector, particularly among communities affected by mining activities.

In addition to improving the sector's sustainability, the use of carbon credits could provide a new revenue stream for mining companies. Carbon credits are tradable commodities that can be bought and sold on carbon markets, and the price of carbon credits can vary depending on supply and demand. By investing in projects and METSO Outotec products that reduce emissions or offset their carbon footprint, mining companies could generate carbon credits that they could sell to other companies or investors. METSO Outotec as a key provider of the technology or solutions for processing the minerals needed for the energy transition have an essential role to play in supporting our customers in their sustainability efforts by developing minerals and metals processing practices that have a lower impact on the environment.

This includes the development of energy-efficient equipment, fostering the use of renewable energy sources, recycling and reusing materials as well as reducing waste and emissions. In addition, the industry must focus on responsible water management, minimizing water waste and reducing the intake of fresh water. Not forgetting the utmost license to operate: safety, which is the highest priority for our customers.

However, the use of carbon credits in the mining sector is not without its challenges. For example, determining the baseline for carbon emissions from mining activities can be complex, and monitoring emissions reductions can be difficult. Additionally, there is a risk that carbon credits could be used as a greenwashing tool, with mining companies using them to offset their emissions without making meaningful efforts to reduce them.

Despite these challenges, the use of carbon credits in the mining sector is gaining momentum in West Africa. For example, in Ghana, AngloGold Ashanti, one of the largest gold mining companies in the world, announced in 2020 that it had secured a $5 million credit facility to support carbon offset projects in the country. The company plans to use the funds to support a range of projects, including reforestation and energy efficiency initiatives.

In neighboring Côte d'Ivoire, the government is taking steps to promote the use of carbon credits in the mining sector. In 2019, the government signed an agreement with the World Bank to develop a carbon credit facility to support sustainable mining practices in the country. The facility is expected to provide financing for mining companies to implement projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve environmental sustainability.

The use of carbon credits in the mining sector in West Africa has the potential to improve the sector's sustainability and provide a new revenue stream while helping to address the environmental impact of mining activities. However, it is important that the use of carbon credits is implemented transparently and with a genuine commitment to reducing emissions. By doing so, mining companies in West Africa could demonstrate that they are responsible environmental stewards committed to sustainable development.

By: Enoch Kusi-Yeboah (Vice President, West Africa) - MetsoOutotec

Mr. Kusi Yeboah the author of the article

The mining sector in West Africa has long been associated with environmental degradation, particularly in relation to carbon emissions.

Sustainability and effects of carbon credit to mining sector in West Africa

Undoubtedly, the action of the state tax collector has created some level of uncertainty around Ghana’s tax laws and how they are interpreted and applied. Giving impetus to this assertion is the fact that the companies in question have been complying with the state’s tax laws based on their contractual understanding over decades during which period the GRA has had no cause to flag them for any violations.

If today they are being cited for not honouring their back taxes, the question that jumps to mind is whether the GRA is now looking backward to reinterpret Ghana’s tax laws in terms of how they are applied; which will then show clearly that the way the tax body has gone about the issue is one-sided.

There is also the issue of fairness in this whole back-tax fracas if one was to question the scope and nature of the audit process. It appears the demands are being made on only the big multinationals with the wherewithal to cough out the several millions of dollars that the GRA is seeking to retrieve. In any case, one would have expected that the rule is applied to all taxpayers, be it the multinationals or local companies.

It must be said that this tax misunderstanding does not augur well for investments looking into the short-term because having certainty about a country’s tax laws and how they are applied are key criteria that investors consider in pushing their capital into an economy.&nbsp;

How Tullow’s international arbitration call could impact Ghana’s IMF bailout

While MTN's tax assessments have been withdrawn after the apparent displeasure that was voiced by a South African government official, Tullow has filed for international arbitration in London. The process of international arbitration of tax disputes as in the case of Tullow against GRA can be lengthy and expensive.

However, it will be a process that is certainly anchored in law. In fact, it is within Tullow’s rights to protect its interests in the way it has chosen to go but isn’t there a better way that doesn’t injure Ghana’s investor attractiveness?

Ghanaians should also be concerned about the possible harm that this arbitration could cause to Ghana’s quest to secure its US$3billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund.

The impact of international arbitration to Ghana’s investor image is something we shall all wait to see unfolding but is it a risk worth taking when we are at the door of the IMF seeking for a bailout?

It must be emphasized that there might be a geopolitical twist to this whole misunderstanding considering the influence that multinational firms hold over their governments. In fact, no government will want to see its multinational firm being treated badly in foreign countries which then does not rule out the geopolitical ramifications of the expected prolonged arbitration process on Ghana’s bailout negotiations with the IMF.

For instance, nobody gets an IMF programme without the push or vote of the United States, which is the largest shareholder of the fund. Ghana finds itself in a dire economic situation that requires it to pull some geopolitical strings to fast-track the approval of the bailout programme in an extraordinarily short period of time.

Given this context, any action that posts an unfavourable geopolitical narrative about Ghana could in a way affect how smoothly those strings are pulled for the deal to be approved.

The need for a multi-stakeholder resolution to serve mutual interests

Admittedly, there has been much debate about the fact that the state is not getting the desired tax revenue from its most lucrative sectors, especially the extractives and telecoms, but the GRA’s tax demands from the foreign firms over the past few weeks have left many wondering whether they are legitimate claims or acts of a desperate taxman.

Ideally, if the state tax collector wants to reinterpret and apply the tax laws on big companies to secure the right levels of taxes for the government then it will have to come out clearly to engage these private businesses on the way forward.

There is the need for an inclusive engagement between the GRA, the respective sector ministries—Finance, Energy and Communications, and the affected companies to find a mutually beneficial solution to the back-tax conundrum.

Investment goes to places where there is certainty about rules and regulations, including tax rules, and it is therefore advisable for government and its investment promotion agencies—the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, the Ghana Free Zones Authority and other who are charged with the business of attracting investment inflows into Ghana should get involved in finding a multi-stakeholder resolution to the ongoing tax disputes.

By: Patrick Paintsil

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has drawn global attention to Ghana’s tax laws and whether investors can trust its interpretation and application with its ongoing fracas with four multinational companies regarding their back-tax obligations.

The tax fracas, Tullow’s march to the ICC and Ghana’s IMF deal

Overall, this has created a need for organizations and leaders within the space to consistently reiterate their commitments, as well as demonstrate their initiatives geared towards building trust, ensuring user fund transparency, and fostering user safety.

However, it is important to note that while the events from last year have permeated a sense of short-term distrust, the overwhelmingly undeniable truth is that crypto is here to stay - a testament to the innumerable applications of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, especially in terms of improving financial inclusion and its simplification of borderless payment transactions.

Moving ahead with user fund transparency

Perhaps, the most worrisome question on the minds of crypto users and investors is “Will my money be safe?” This inclination is entirely expected for a plethora of reasons. To avert the feelings of fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD),&nbsp;there is an undeniable need for reassurances that guarantee crypto users and investors the protection and financial security they require.

For one, user funds must never be mismanaged and all measures must be maintained to keep user funds secure. Exchanges should follow three very simple rules: hold user assets in custody 1:1, never trade against your users, and don’t take on debt.

The cryptocurrency industry needs to prioritize user protection and allocate resources accordingly, focusing on ensuring security and maintaining transparency. To achieve this, many exchanges have taken the initiative by publicly sharing wallet addresses and reserve proofs, as well as creating recovery funds.

Proof of reserves is considered one of the most effective methods of increasing the transparency of user funds in cryptocurrency exchanges. Users have the right to verify the safekeeping of their assets held in a centralized exchange’s custody and the presence and nature of reserve assets on an exchange provide insights into the platform's operation; one of such reserves is Binance’s proof-of-reserves.

Additionally, education must be prioritized as users need to better understand the different crypto offerings on the market – so they can distinguish which ways are safe to enter and what actually makes certain crypto offerings trustworthy and reputable.

All exchanges must dedicate resources to provide their users with sufficient knowledge about their products, services, and the broader industry. Materials should clearly explain the risks associated to enable users to make informed choices. These efforts will continue to help rebuild trust within the industry and support future innovation.

Regulatory compliance is key

The importance of adhering to regulatory standards in establishing stability, credibility, and confidence in cryptocurrencies is often overlooked by some as they believe it hinders the underlying innovation that drives the crypto industry.

However, smart regulation is beneficial to the safe custody of cryptocurrency and crypto providers must further shoulder the responsibility by engaging in open and ongoing communication about the structure of their products and the regulations that govern them. Like seatbelts in a car, a more regulated crypto market provides greater protections for everyday users.

Another key lesson from the past year is that regulation can play a crucial role in the revival, long-term success, and broader acceptance of cryptocurrencies, particularly in growing markets. By providing safety and peace of mind for users and conferring legitimacy, regulation can help restore the industry's image and renew consumers' trust in cryptocurrencies. After all, institutional interest will follow where regulation goes, further proving the value and legitimacy of the crypto industry.

To conclude, given the rapidly changing nature of the crypto industry and its protocols, it is imperative for the industry to collaborate and establish standards for the quality of security measures for exchanges and projects. Collaborating with law enforcement is crucial in order to support investigations and retrieve stolen funds. In addition, developing better incubation programs to equip new projects with adequate security measures is essential.&nbsp;

By: Nadeem ANJARWALLA

For the cryptocurrency industry, 2022 was a year of immense upheavals, causing governments, consumers, and other associated stakeholders to question the debated topics of trust, credibility, and user protection in the cryptocurrency industry.

A more open and accountable future – the role of regulation and transparency in the blockchain industry

Jamos Parsa announced on his Instagram page (Jenab.Parsa) about providing aid to the people affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

He has stated that he converted all the money from his music platforms into the heating equipment, clothes and food and sent it to the earthquake-stricken people of Turkey and Syria on February 14, 2023.

In his last interview, Jamous asked all the celebrities and famous people not to withhold their humanitarian aid so that with each other's help we can free the people of the affected areas from this bad crisis.

He further added: "The current situation is very difficult for the people of these areas and the authorities should organize these areas as soon as possible, because many people are still trapped under the rubble."

Jamos Parsa, who was born on April 3, 1996, started his musical career at the age of 17.

Jamos Parsa, Iranian musician, has helped earthquake-stricken people of Turkey

Members of the club embarked on a 7.5 kilometre walk at the Achimota School Oval to create awareness about the value of education and particularly, to raise funds targeted at building a Kindergarten Classroom and a library Block for the Otano Bethel Presbyterian Basic School.

The leadership of the club observed that whereas the Otano Community, an urban rural settlement located right in the middle of the affluent East Legon suburb of Accra, pupils of kindergarten 1 (KG1) at&nbsp;the Otano Bethel Presbyterian Basic School&nbsp;do not have a classroom of their own and classes are held on a corridor of a JHS classroom about 500 meters away from the Primary School Compound.

The Club also observed that the 455 pupils and students of the Primary and JHS streams of the school did not have the benefit of a library facility, as a&nbsp;container which supposedly serves that purpose is a small mobile unit located outside the corridor and has no books.

At a brief ceremony which followed the walk, Club members had the opportunity of interacting with school authorities, stakeholders from within in the Otano community, and officials of the Adentan Municipal Assembly and the Ghana Education Service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We strongly believe that this is the project that will make school going and learning attractive and enjoyable for young children of school going age in this community,” said Rotarian Debbie Mangortey, the Club’s President-elect.

The President-elect said Rotary members throughout the world take action to make communities better. They contribute their time, energy, and passion to carry out meaningful and sustainable projects that promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, help mothers and children, support education, grow local economies and protect the environment.

The District Governor-elect, Dave Osei-Amankwah urged to members of the Crosswalkers, (a group of old Achimota School alumnus, who routinely walk on weekends and who participated in the&nbsp;Rotary Club&nbsp;walk), to join forces with Rotary to give back to a needy community ‘if they have the passion to use their expertise and resources to serve humanity’.

Rotarian Betty Blankson appealed to well-meaning individuals, corporate entities and non-governmental organisations who are touched or motivated to support the course being charted for the Otano Community to feel free to approach the club through&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rotaryclubofaccraspeakmasters@gmail.com">rotaryclubofaccraspeakmasters@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or Betty Blankson on 0244313660 for proposals on how to collaborate with Rotary and be part of the Project.

Present at the ceremony were Madam Vivian Owusu, Head teacher of the school, Madam Charlotte Asare Nyarko, Deputy Director of GES in charge of Monitoring and Supervision, and the Rev. Emmanuel Sowah, the Presiding Elder of the Bethel Presbytarian Church, Otano.

In the course of its two years of its existence, the Rotary Club of Accra-SpeakMasters has reached out to various communities in and around Accra&nbsp;&nbsp;with a variety of services, the most recent of which are the donation of 130 menstrual cups to students and teachers of the St. Peter’s Catholic Basic School in Englesie Amanfrom; Donation of a Polytank to the JoyKol Ophanage in Gomoa Fete; a collaboration with the Rotary Alumini, to donate books, bags, lunch boxes, stationery to children at the Gomoa Kakraba Ophanage and Collaboration with other Rotary and Lion Clubs to execute the Amedzope Health Screening and blood donation Project.

The Rotary Club of Accra-SpeakMasters last week, organised a walk to kick start a campaign to raise funds to support the development of basic education and literacy in the Otano community in the Adentan Municipality in Accra.

Rotary Club of Accra-SpeakMasters walks to upgrade school facilities in Otano community

You have since participated in all political activities representing the NDC at all levels.

It all began in the Kassalingo Community in Mirigu of the Upper East Region of Ghana.&nbsp;You started as a party agent, PRO and slightly missed the position of Chairmanship at the Constituency level in 2014.

We knew you would have been a good Chairman but maybe God had just asked you to wait for the ultimate time which is now.

Since that election, you have become a household name in the Constituency and the Region particularly among the NDC family. You have turned down proposals by constituents for you to put yourself up for the parliamentary primaries for obvious reasons.

You have earned many accolades to your name; unifier, humble, affable, peaceful, friendly, team leader, people centered, passionate, compassionate and development oriented they say you are.

You're truly a unifier and reconciliatory in nature. Once you tried in 2014 and weren't successful, you put it behind you and worked hard for the party in various capacities at various levels. You supported all NDC candidates in cash, material and human skills over the years. You have consistently dedicated your time, shredded energy and committed your rather scarce resources to work for the party in all subsequent elections.

Little wonder therefore that, a delegate had this to say about you. "people and the NDC party are the reason why Abirigo is not so rich". This may sound as a comic relief and qualifies as a funny meme. Yet that is the level people know your selfless sacrifices to humankind.

Holy scripture also captures it in a manner so unequivocal when it stated, “service to mankind is service to God”. I guess it’s time to serve God to the service to mankind.

Another delegate said, "As for Hon. Abirigo, he can give his last one cedi to people and go hungry". This is how well you are known for, because when you worked as Public Relations Officer for the Kassena-Nankana Mutual Health Insurance Scheme as the key publicity and registration officer, they said you spent all your money registering for the aged and the needy for the over four years.

You have persisted in caring for people and the NDC party over the years and they have good records of you in their hearts.

You have shown consistency and drive to lead the NDC in the Constituency all this while and this is your time. The calls for you to lead your party, in the constituency, is now resoundingly louder. But unlike the calls to Pontious Pilate that sounded “CRUCIFY HIM! CRUCIFY HIM!!’ Yours is sounding “CROWN HIM! CROWN HIM!!.. It echoes from the East, to the West and to the North and south, echoes with a resounding and unanimous magnitude. It resonates through the vicissitudes of time sending signals into the ears of innocent children, the youth, women, the aged, able and the disable of our constituency.

For it is written that, ‘’I the Lord have spoken! and you must remember that, the tide in the affairs of man is not static’’. It moves. Also, remember what happened to Jonah may repeat itself when you try to run away from these calls. And do not be afraid. Just like it happened to Moses, I have good news for you:&nbsp;

Selflessness and peaceful

From the East to the West, delegates have concluded that you deserve their votes.&nbsp;They talk about your selflessness and crave for peace, unity and development in the constituency.

&nbsp;Your contributions, efforts and commitments to see a lasting peace particularly in the Doba- Kandiga area specifically is highly commendable. Delegates have the firm belief that you would be a developmental Member of Parliament and therefore, you deserve the votes this time around.

You have proven beyond reasonable doubt you are a team player and relate well with every community and section in the constituency without being discriminatory against people due to their political or community belongingness.

The name Abirigo resonates in every nook and cranny of the constituency. In Chiana, Nakong, Kayoro,&nbsp;Paga, Nakolo, Navio, Sirigu,&nbsp;Kandiga and many others, the name Abirigo is a household name. A young man met us for the first time in Accra and this was what he said “ohh so this is the popular Abirigo?”.

In many occasions, you have worked with constituents in the East, West and North for your party the NDC. The delegates remember every bit of your sacrifices for your party.

They see how you easily relate with them. They see your positive party working relationships and they are determined to reward your leadership should you put yourself up.

Your humility and respect to all manner of persons.

Your humility and respect towards for both young and old is widely talked about and delegates really appreciate your strong spirit and sense of humility.

In fairness, you have no match in this race to lead the party in Chiana-Paga Constituency. The delegates have been communicating that the race is between Hon. Abirigo and all the rest put together. Yes that is what they about you.

Abirigo brings fresh, firm, decisive, trustworthy and reliable leadership.

Grassroots party membership are yearning for your strong and top notch leadership to reinvigorate party activities in the constituency.

Your courage and strong leadership and your likeability identity is required to ensure the party’s victory of 2024 in the constituency.

The delegates are waiting to endorse you in May 13, 2023.

Given the dynamics of the constituency, you come as a universal and unique person that attracts more votes for party come 2024 because you speak both Kasem and Gurene fluently.

The Peoples' Project

Everyone is already talking about the Peoples' Project that you intend to unveil. They have no doubt that Project when implemented will create employment for the youth in the constituency and uplift them out of poverty as it is focused on the people.

Delegates are anxiously waiting to endorse the Peoples' Project come May 13, 2023.&nbsp;Delegates are delighted to know you are leading in the race to become the Member of Parliament for the Paga-Chiana Constituency for their interest and they believe what you have done on your own you can do greater things when you become their MP.

Indeed, Hon Abirigo THIS IS YOUR TIME, I HEAR THE VOICE OF THE LORD CALL YOUR NAME TO STEP FORWARD FOR IT IS YOUR TIME.

It is not debatable. All other candidates are just trying. But your is a call to divine duty. “Go ye therefore and subdue the votes and commit ye therefore to the service of the people”. It’s well with you.

Your name, Atayure is no mere coincidence. You have the name indeed. You have the greatest of name. Go make the numbers.

The writer, David Adumbire, is a researcher, PhD Candidate at University of Ghana, (UG)

In 1992, you began your political career when your late uncle Joe Kanchi signed a membership card of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for you under the ebony tree in Mirigu-Gonum.

Chiana-Paga constituents believe Francis Abirigo is biblical Moses of the constituency

In the airy Cape Coast stadium, the atmosphere was filled not just with celebratory songs and sweet melodies by the Ghana Supporters Union, but with a sense of calm, a sense of assurance that even if the ship hit a spiky rock, the team wouldn’t drown, but instead rise up to the occasion.

At times, Milovan Rajevac patrolled his sideline like a Maths teacher who was keenly invigilating a class test. Pacing slowly to and fro in that mannered, controlled way. As if to say he was enthusiastically counting every step. As if to say his every step on the touchline would impact the game one way or the other.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FULL-TIME at the Cape Coast Stadium 🏟 Ghana 🇬🇭 3-1 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe ⚽️ 5&#39; <a href="https://twitter.com/KudusMohammedGH?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KudusMohammedGH</a>, 65&#39; <a href="https://twitter.com/Thomaspartey22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Thomaspartey22</a> &amp; 86&#39; <a href="https://twitter.com/AyewAndre?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AyewAndre</a> / 49&#39; Knowledge Musona (pk)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BringBackTheLove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BringBackTheLove</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackStars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackStars</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WCQ2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WCQ2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/KoI93ZJKh0">pic.twitter.com/KoI93ZJKh0</a>&mdash; 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) <a href="https://twitter.com/GhanaBlackstars/status/1446897298211020801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After 11 long years away, the man who put Ghana on the cusp of making the semis of the 2010 World Cup, was back at it again. Trying to resurrect a Black Stars whose soul and spirit had long been crucified. Milovan Rajevac, surprisingly, still doesn’t communicate in English, but if there were misgivings about his capacity to revive an ailing Black Stars, then this game dispelled all doubts, what’s more this game gave us a glimpse of what the senior men’s national team are capable of.

And so in the presence of merely 4,000 highly eager spectators, the Black Stars came out to dance, came out to enjoy themselves as though whatever it was that was at stake, it only mattered little. And that what they truly cared about was to produce a great spectacle and dance to the great tunes and then feast.

As the team spilled out from the changing room and into the dully lit 4pm sunshine to blurt out the national anthem, every trace of uneasiness and uncertainty seeped silently out from within the echoey stadium and into the vast, misty, blue sky. And yet, right after Musona Knowledge had converted his penalty just four minutes after the restart to cancel out Mohammed Kudus’s early opener, this thing called uneasiness had returned and reappeared.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tactical Masterclass 👌 🇬🇭 3-1 🇿🇼<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BringBackTheLove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BringBackTheLove</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackStars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackStars</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WCQ2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WCQ2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/y9ynTbqBlE">pic.twitter.com/y9ynTbqBlE</a>&mdash; 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) <a href="https://twitter.com/GhanaBlackstars/status/1446941071578214406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Optimism had suddenly been replaced with uncertainty. Every faulty pass from the Black Stars began to draw a frown, a groan, a sense that it might be all too costly. So, when the clock ticked to 66, Arsenal’s Thomas Party conjured his own piece of magic. Weaving through the Zimbabwe defence and slotting, with aplomb, the ball into the far corner.

2-1 it was, cheers to life! If Partey’s goal was symbolic of how crucial he has become for the Black Stars, Mohammed Kudus’s early goal in the first half, was also emblematic of how, he, too, has become a sort of backbone for this team. His goal was pure artistry. Playing a delicious one-two with Jordan Ayew, who for much of this game cut a forlorn figure upfront, before drilling it past the Zimbabwe shot-stopper.

Here, in this very game, Kudus demonstrated his pure quality: his subtle and simple touches, the way he caressed the ball, his wily movements and ruthless conviction. It appeared, for much of this brilliant game, that the Black Stars were indeed enjoying themselves. Kamaldeen Sulemana, who was stationed on the left flank, tortured the Zimbwabwe defence with his tricks and pace. Fatawu Issahaku, the 17-year-old gem of RTU, deployed on the right side of attack, showed all who came to watch, his potential for greatness.

Jojo Wollacott, making his debut for the Black Stars, was a calm presence in goal, barking orders and gesticulating at the defence every now and then. He made an impressive save in the second half. But for giving away a penalty, Djiku’s partnership with Jonathan Mensah at the heart of defence was without blemish, was irreproachable. Baba Rahman was a constant menace down that left side of Ghana’s setup where he’s given the free rein to zip upfront and wreak havoc. His pin-point crosses offered the Black Stars an alternative way of attacking.

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