31-05-2011
A 42 - member Interdisciplinary Committee of the NDC had been officially inaugurated in the Upper East Region to instill discipline within the rank and file of the party. This involves selected regional disciplinary committee members of the party. The inaugural ceremony led by the Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo brought together top party executives drawn from the various constituencies across the region. Mr. Woyongo in a brief remark described the move as necessary since it would help in ensuring sanity and discipline among party faithfuls, especially in the round up to the upcoming primary to elect its flag bearer to lead the party come 2012. He drew members’ attention to the recent political struggle in the NDC describing it as a ‘storm in a tea cup. The unfortunate trend, he emphasized serves as a demonstration of the party’s democratic principles. He moreover said the party despite its internal political struggle would come out stronger and more united after the primary to reaffirm ‘the democratic credentials and supremacy of the NDC. He therefore urged party executives to alley all fears on the matter but rather explore healthy avenues to attract more people into the party particularly, those belonging to the other political divides to ensure victory in the upcoming general elections. Mr. Woyongo further challenged them to remain united and committed to the ideals and principles of the party in achieving their desired objectives. According to him the establishment and composition of the disciplinary committee members represented by 3 selected executive members each from the constituency level, would help address the petty internal wrangling pertaining in the party and expressed the hope that members would be up to the task of instilling discipline within the party. He also charged party members to resolve to pursue the right channels in their quest to seeking redress instead of resorting to turmoil and agitations at the least provocation. The Regional Secretary of the party, Donatus Akamugre for his part, said the formation of the committee can be guaranteed under chapter (7) of the party’s constitution which he noted is different from the ‘Special Complains Committee’ enshrined under chapter (6) article (38) of the same constitution. He expressed total confidence in the committee members and encouraged them to exercise their mandate with fairness and objectivity to attain the confidence repose in them. Mr. Akamugre also seized the opportunity to caution party members against unnecessary violent behaviours, stating that any member found engaging in acts of indiscipline would be made to face appropriate sanctions as stipulated in article (40) clause (9) of the constitution. Reacting to questions from the media, Mr Akamugre said any member found culpable irrespective of his position and influence in the party is liable to disciplinary actions including sanctioning, expulsion, fines and suspension among others. He therefore charged party members to ensure discipline at all times. The 42-members executives were later sworn into office to begin their official duties.
GBC END IA/
Monday, 30 May 2011
Sunday, 29 May 2011
Residents of Nandom offered free medical Care
29-05-2011
Residents of the Nandom Traditional area have been offered free medical care as part of their Annual Health Outreach Programme organized by the Nandom Youth Forum, a non-profit organization based in the Upper West Region. This initiative forms part of efforts aimed at alleviating the deplorable medical situation in the community and also reach out to the poor and the aged who are most at times denied medical attention due to their poverty situation. This year’s health outreach was the eighth in the series to be organized in the community. During such events, medical practitioners who are natives of Nandom but resident in different locations of the country are brought on board to assist in providing free medical screening and treatment to the people. A team of five health professionals led by the Medical Superintendent of the Bimbilla Hospital, Dr Alex Ire, handled cases in Malaria, High Blood Pressure, Hepatitis B and other ailments to over 900 people. In the course of the exercise, some minor and major surgeries were performed by the doctors. Dr. Juventus Ziem, a Lecturer at the University for Development Studies Medical School in Tamale, Dr Mohammed Bukari and Dr. Nana Kwame Boa-Antwi both Senior House Officers of the Tamale Teaching Hospital and Dr. Susan Dontwi, a House Officer of the same hospital were among the few doctors that took part in the exercise. And for the very first time, three (3) of the House Doctors who do not hail from the area volunteered their services free of charge. It was also the first time a female Doctor participated in the programme. Dr. J. Ziem in an interview with Radio Ghana indicated that the idea of bringing doctors who do not hail from the area was to expose them to the Nandom hospital to assist in providing quality health care to the people. This, he said could generate their interest towards working in the area. Dr Ziem said though Nandom produces many qualified doctors, majority of them have refuse to stay back and offer their services to the people and attributed the unfortunate development to family pressures, financial and lack of adequate medical equipments among other challenges. According to him, exposing more doctors to the improved health facilities at the hospital, and the hospitable and social nature of the people is to encourage them to opt to work in the Nandom hospital. Members of the forum later paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of the Nandom Traditional area, Naa Puo-ure Puobe Chiir at his palace. Naa Puobe Chirr in his brief remark commended the team for the kind gesture and assured them of his unflinching support in their quest to improving the health status of the people.. Mr. Vitus Ninfaakng who spoke on behalf of the forum noted that his outfit is not only concerned with the health welfare of the people, but were also working at providing support for education and the agricultural activities in the area. He said in line with their set objective, the forum last year donated some reading and learning materials to most second cycle schools in the district. Mr. Ninfaakng therefore thanked relevant stakeholders including the Interior Minister,, Dr. Benjamin Kumbuor, Eximguaranty Company, Ghana, the Ghana Medical Stores, and the Pharmacy Council other individuals for their continues support over the years.
Residents of the Nandom Traditional area have been offered free medical care as part of their Annual Health Outreach Programme organized by the Nandom Youth Forum, a non-profit organization based in the Upper West Region. This initiative forms part of efforts aimed at alleviating the deplorable medical situation in the community and also reach out to the poor and the aged who are most at times denied medical attention due to their poverty situation. This year’s health outreach was the eighth in the series to be organized in the community. During such events, medical practitioners who are natives of Nandom but resident in different locations of the country are brought on board to assist in providing free medical screening and treatment to the people. A team of five health professionals led by the Medical Superintendent of the Bimbilla Hospital, Dr Alex Ire, handled cases in Malaria, High Blood Pressure, Hepatitis B and other ailments to over 900 people. In the course of the exercise, some minor and major surgeries were performed by the doctors. Dr. Juventus Ziem, a Lecturer at the University for Development Studies Medical School in Tamale, Dr Mohammed Bukari and Dr. Nana Kwame Boa-Antwi both Senior House Officers of the Tamale Teaching Hospital and Dr. Susan Dontwi, a House Officer of the same hospital were among the few doctors that took part in the exercise. And for the very first time, three (3) of the House Doctors who do not hail from the area volunteered their services free of charge. It was also the first time a female Doctor participated in the programme. Dr. J. Ziem in an interview with Radio Ghana indicated that the idea of bringing doctors who do not hail from the area was to expose them to the Nandom hospital to assist in providing quality health care to the people. This, he said could generate their interest towards working in the area. Dr Ziem said though Nandom produces many qualified doctors, majority of them have refuse to stay back and offer their services to the people and attributed the unfortunate development to family pressures, financial and lack of adequate medical equipments among other challenges. According to him, exposing more doctors to the improved health facilities at the hospital, and the hospitable and social nature of the people is to encourage them to opt to work in the Nandom hospital. Members of the forum later paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of the Nandom Traditional area, Naa Puo-ure Puobe Chiir at his palace. Naa Puobe Chirr in his brief remark commended the team for the kind gesture and assured them of his unflinching support in their quest to improving the health status of the people.. Mr. Vitus Ninfaakng who spoke on behalf of the forum noted that his outfit is not only concerned with the health welfare of the people, but were also working at providing support for education and the agricultural activities in the area. He said in line with their set objective, the forum last year donated some reading and learning materials to most second cycle schools in the district. Mr. Ninfaakng therefore thanked relevant stakeholders including the Interior Minister,, Dr. Benjamin Kumbuor, Eximguaranty Company, Ghana, the Ghana Medical Stores, and the Pharmacy Council other individuals for their continues support over the years.
Stakeholders Workshop on 3-Dimensional Mapping held at Bolgatanga
29-05-2011
Narration: A Regional Stakeholder’s Workshop aimed at ensuring food security and empowerment of the disadvantaged has taken place in the Upper East Regional capital, Bolgatanga. The workshop dubbed: ‘Participatory 3-Dimensional Mapping is expected to serve as an effective tool for active participation and effective collaboration among development agencies and beneficiary communities in the country, particularly the three regions of the north to achieving the desired results. Relevant stakeholders including Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) as well as representatives from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) and the Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) among other reputable NGOs, attended the one day function. Isaac Asare was at the meeting and has filed this report for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN AT
END CUE AT
ANCR V/O
Report
The 3-Dimensional Mapping Model is an innovative technology practiced in most Asian countries. it is used as a powerful communication tool that captures the vast complex landscape resources into an incredible, concise and solid terrain model, understandable to the learned and unlearned. The model, thus serves as an effective communication tool that enables government and communities identify their positions in the country’s landscape for the purpose of resource management. The model which is also aimed at addressing issues of climate change, food security, disaster management, people’s empowerment and intellectual property rights, had proven to support agriculture and collaborative planning and research among others. With the concept of this innovative model, communities particularly, the disadvantaged, would be empowered to be able to take control of their own lives as it gives a fair understanding as to how best resources and the environment could be managed sustainably. Moreover, its integration with weather forecasting and social crop calendar concept developed by MOFA will therefore be a powerful tool to ensure food security and relatively, empower the underprivileged in the region. The Participatory 3-Dimensional Modeling workshop was therefore organized for relevant stakeholders with the view to fostering active participation and effective collaboration among development agencies and beneficiary communities in the region to help achieve the desired goals. A resource person from the VSO, Ernest Dwamena, in a brief presentation challenged stakeholders to take advantage of the new model to improve upon their livelihood. He said with the aid of the model, high collaboration of institutions could be enhanced whilst the majority will have a fair idea about the weather terrain, soil texture and characteristics and as well know the expected amount of rainfall to receive in a year. Community members will also be able to identify whether they are living in disaster or flood prone areas. The model, he further noted, will help empower communities to collaborate and coordinate activities with external organizations that enter their territories to ensure total development. The Regional Director of MOFA, Mr. Emmanuel Eledi expressed the hope that the new dimension will assist in lessening the perennial flooding situation experienced in Northern Ghana and subsequently enhance food security in the country. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo for his part said the innovative technology will impact on the lives of the disadvantaged only if all stakeholders adapt to its use consistently. He therefore appealed to the implementing agencies to work towards its sustainability. Mr. Woyongo also charged the various MDCEs to prioritize the construction of 3D maps and use it as a tool for encouraging participation in the development process. Stakeholders in the course of the workshop were introduced to the 3-Dimensional Model Map designed to represent the country’s entire landscape.
END
Narration: A Regional Stakeholder’s Workshop aimed at ensuring food security and empowerment of the disadvantaged has taken place in the Upper East Regional capital, Bolgatanga. The workshop dubbed: ‘Participatory 3-Dimensional Mapping is expected to serve as an effective tool for active participation and effective collaboration among development agencies and beneficiary communities in the country, particularly the three regions of the north to achieving the desired results. Relevant stakeholders including Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) as well as representatives from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) and the Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) among other reputable NGOs, attended the one day function. Isaac Asare was at the meeting and has filed this report for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN AT
END CUE AT
ANCR V/O
Report
The 3-Dimensional Mapping Model is an innovative technology practiced in most Asian countries. it is used as a powerful communication tool that captures the vast complex landscape resources into an incredible, concise and solid terrain model, understandable to the learned and unlearned. The model, thus serves as an effective communication tool that enables government and communities identify their positions in the country’s landscape for the purpose of resource management. The model which is also aimed at addressing issues of climate change, food security, disaster management, people’s empowerment and intellectual property rights, had proven to support agriculture and collaborative planning and research among others. With the concept of this innovative model, communities particularly, the disadvantaged, would be empowered to be able to take control of their own lives as it gives a fair understanding as to how best resources and the environment could be managed sustainably. Moreover, its integration with weather forecasting and social crop calendar concept developed by MOFA will therefore be a powerful tool to ensure food security and relatively, empower the underprivileged in the region. The Participatory 3-Dimensional Modeling workshop was therefore organized for relevant stakeholders with the view to fostering active participation and effective collaboration among development agencies and beneficiary communities in the region to help achieve the desired goals. A resource person from the VSO, Ernest Dwamena, in a brief presentation challenged stakeholders to take advantage of the new model to improve upon their livelihood. He said with the aid of the model, high collaboration of institutions could be enhanced whilst the majority will have a fair idea about the weather terrain, soil texture and characteristics and as well know the expected amount of rainfall to receive in a year. Community members will also be able to identify whether they are living in disaster or flood prone areas. The model, he further noted, will help empower communities to collaborate and coordinate activities with external organizations that enter their territories to ensure total development. The Regional Director of MOFA, Mr. Emmanuel Eledi expressed the hope that the new dimension will assist in lessening the perennial flooding situation experienced in Northern Ghana and subsequently enhance food security in the country. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo for his part said the innovative technology will impact on the lives of the disadvantaged only if all stakeholders adapt to its use consistently. He therefore appealed to the implementing agencies to work towards its sustainability. Mr. Woyongo also charged the various MDCEs to prioritize the construction of 3D maps and use it as a tool for encouraging participation in the development process. Stakeholders in the course of the workshop were introduced to the 3-Dimensional Model Map designed to represent the country’s entire landscape.
END
Saturday, 28 May 2011
Regulatory bodies challenged to halt the importation and sale of unapproved malaria drug
28-05-20111 s
Narration: The Food and Drugs Board among other regulatory bodies have been entreated to be extra vigilant in ensuring that unapproved malaria drugs are not produced nor imported into the country. The Deputy Upper East Regional Minister, Lucy Awuni who made the call at Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region said the use of such unapproved malaria drugs by consumers poses a serious health challenge to health service delivery in the country since they are costly and ineffective medicines for simple malaria treatment. Mrs. Awuni, who was speaking at the Regional launch of the affordable medicines facility for Malaria, also recommended the use of Artemisinin–based Combination Therapies (ACTs) as the first line treatment for uncomplicated malaria. Isaac Asare has the rest of the story for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
Malaria still remains one of the leading causes of deaths in the country accounting for over 38 percent of total Out-Patient Departments (OPDs) in public health institutions. It is also the leading cause of workdays lost and school absenteeism among others. The diseases since its discovery has been at the top of the agenda of the Ministry of Health , the Ghana Health Services and other development partners since it has caused the death of many particularly pregnant women and children under five years. In the Upper East Region 53.3 percent of the OPD cases at both public and private health facilities were due to malaria and its related cases in 2010. It also constitute 41.4 percent of the total admission in health facilities in the region thus calling for immediate interventions to curb the menace before it assumes an alarming proportion. A number of initiatives as part of efforts to combat the disease has been implemented and integrated into the various communities across the country. Notably among them is the Roll Back Malaria Initiative, which is a malaria control strategy based on the principle of early recognition of the disease and prompt treatment using appropriate and effective anti-malaria drugs. The regional launch of the affordable medicines facility for malaria on the theme: “ACTs Affordable and Quality Medicines for Malaria” was organized to draw the attention of the public on the usage of ACTs as the first line treatment for uncomplicated malaria as compared to the conventional way of treating the disease with mono-therapies such as ‘chroloquine’ among other ineffective drugs. Addressing participants including chiefs, departmental heads, health professional s and representatives from the health Ministry, the Deputy Upper Regional Minister, Lucy Awuni, recommended the use of ACTs in the treatment of malaria. The drugs, she noted are a combination of Artesunate and Amodiaquine, which also comes in two forms, namely, Artemether Lumefantrine and Dihydroartemisinin Piperaquine. These effective malaria drugs, she further said, are being introduced into the country to eliminate the ineffective mono-therapies in the system since they are of better quality and above all affordable for public use. Mrs. Awuni, moreover drew the attention of the public not to buy the drugs above the approved price of Gh¢1.50 pesewas. She said about 1.7 doses of the ACTs have arrived in Ghana and can be purchased in all pharmacy and chemical shops throughout the country. Mrs. Awuni later charged the various regulatory bodies to halt the sale and importation of all unapproved malaria drugs into the country.. The Deputy Upper East Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. James Akpablie, touched on the preventive methods of treating malaria through the proper use of bed nets and the adoption of good sanitary practices and called on the public to focus on the prevention of malaria rather than spending time and money to fight the disease. He also encouraged the general public to stick to the use of the ACTs since they stand as the preferred and approved drug for treating uncomplicated malaria. Dr Akpablie in his later submission urged the public to properly monitor and ensure that the prices and use of these drugs with green leave logo are not abused.
END
Narration: The Food and Drugs Board among other regulatory bodies have been entreated to be extra vigilant in ensuring that unapproved malaria drugs are not produced nor imported into the country. The Deputy Upper East Regional Minister, Lucy Awuni who made the call at Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region said the use of such unapproved malaria drugs by consumers poses a serious health challenge to health service delivery in the country since they are costly and ineffective medicines for simple malaria treatment. Mrs. Awuni, who was speaking at the Regional launch of the affordable medicines facility for Malaria, also recommended the use of Artemisinin–based Combination Therapies (ACTs) as the first line treatment for uncomplicated malaria. Isaac Asare has the rest of the story for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
Malaria still remains one of the leading causes of deaths in the country accounting for over 38 percent of total Out-Patient Departments (OPDs) in public health institutions. It is also the leading cause of workdays lost and school absenteeism among others. The diseases since its discovery has been at the top of the agenda of the Ministry of Health , the Ghana Health Services and other development partners since it has caused the death of many particularly pregnant women and children under five years. In the Upper East Region 53.3 percent of the OPD cases at both public and private health facilities were due to malaria and its related cases in 2010. It also constitute 41.4 percent of the total admission in health facilities in the region thus calling for immediate interventions to curb the menace before it assumes an alarming proportion. A number of initiatives as part of efforts to combat the disease has been implemented and integrated into the various communities across the country. Notably among them is the Roll Back Malaria Initiative, which is a malaria control strategy based on the principle of early recognition of the disease and prompt treatment using appropriate and effective anti-malaria drugs. The regional launch of the affordable medicines facility for malaria on the theme: “ACTs Affordable and Quality Medicines for Malaria” was organized to draw the attention of the public on the usage of ACTs as the first line treatment for uncomplicated malaria as compared to the conventional way of treating the disease with mono-therapies such as ‘chroloquine’ among other ineffective drugs. Addressing participants including chiefs, departmental heads, health professional s and representatives from the health Ministry, the Deputy Upper Regional Minister, Lucy Awuni, recommended the use of ACTs in the treatment of malaria. The drugs, she noted are a combination of Artesunate and Amodiaquine, which also comes in two forms, namely, Artemether Lumefantrine and Dihydroartemisinin Piperaquine. These effective malaria drugs, she further said, are being introduced into the country to eliminate the ineffective mono-therapies in the system since they are of better quality and above all affordable for public use. Mrs. Awuni, moreover drew the attention of the public not to buy the drugs above the approved price of Gh¢1.50 pesewas. She said about 1.7 doses of the ACTs have arrived in Ghana and can be purchased in all pharmacy and chemical shops throughout the country. Mrs. Awuni later charged the various regulatory bodies to halt the sale and importation of all unapproved malaria drugs into the country.. The Deputy Upper East Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. James Akpablie, touched on the preventive methods of treating malaria through the proper use of bed nets and the adoption of good sanitary practices and called on the public to focus on the prevention of malaria rather than spending time and money to fight the disease. He also encouraged the general public to stick to the use of the ACTs since they stand as the preferred and approved drug for treating uncomplicated malaria. Dr Akpablie in his later submission urged the public to properly monitor and ensure that the prices and use of these drugs with green leave logo are not abused.
END
Rainstorm causes extensive damage to properties in Upper East
27-05-2011
Narration: Three recent rainstorms that swept through parts of the Upper East Region are said to have caused severe havoc to properties running into several millions of Ghana Cedis. A substantial amount of 2.9 million Ghana Cedis is therefore needed for rehabilitation. The said amount came to light after the Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo in the company of the acting Regional Director of Education, NADMO and officials of the Regional Architectural Engineering Limited (AESL), had gone round to asses the extent of damage caused by the rainstorms. A detailed report by the team was therefore submitted to the Upper East Regional Minister for onward submission to the Ministry of Education and NADMO head office in Accra for assistance. Here is report by Isaac Asare
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
The recent rainstorms are said to have caused extensive damage to schools and private houses in the affected areas across the region. Though no death was recorded, most of the communities in all the nine districts across the region were reported to have been severely hit by the rainstorms as most of the roofs of affected houses were ripped off while a quite number of high tension poles were affected, thereby disrupting the flow of electricity to most parts of the region. In all, 3,639 houses and 123 schools in the region were greatly affected by the rainstorm, which according to authorities could be described as one of the worst disasters recorded in the region after the devastating floods experienced in 2007. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo at a press briefing in Bolgatanga, indicated that some victims living in the affected areas have sought refuge with friends and relatives looking for assistance from government agencies and individuals whilst others have migrated down south to seek greener pastures as a result of their predicaments. According to Mr. Woyongo, a passionate appeal has been made to the Ministry of Education to that effect, noting that the ministry as part of its contribution to addressing the problem has pledged to assist the region with an amount of 1.5 million Ghana Cedis to rehabilitate the affected schools and private properties. The Ministry, he further indicated, are seeking additional funds elsewhere to assist in that regard. Mr. Woyongo however called on all individuals and well meaning Ghanaians to come to the aid of the affected victims so as to sustain their livelihood. He implored the assistance of other stakeholders to contribute in bringing relief to affected victims by providing them with temporal sheds and roofing materials to re-roof their houses. Mr. Woyongo also appealed to heads of first and second cycle institutions to take the issue of afforestation seriously to help avert such calamities. This, Mr. Woyongo explained is vital in building a strong defence against rainstorms. He moreover stressed on the urgent for residents to reinforce and build parapet around their roofs to withstand stormy eventualities. The Media as part of their contribution also bemoaned the haphazard way at which buildings are put up with impunity and without proper assessment and supervision by the Town and country planning officials. This they lamented had contributed to indiscipline from the public as houses are erected even on waterways. They however challenged officials of the Town and Country Planning Authority to exercise their duties with professionalism taking into account the implications of indiscriminate erection of unapproved structures. The DCEs on the other hand were also charged to take oversight responsibility over activities performed by officials of the Town and Country planning and importantly call them to order to answer questions on things that are not done right. The media also tasked the various DCEs to explore the possibility of providing quality seedlings for plantation.
END
Narration: Three recent rainstorms that swept through parts of the Upper East Region are said to have caused severe havoc to properties running into several millions of Ghana Cedis. A substantial amount of 2.9 million Ghana Cedis is therefore needed for rehabilitation. The said amount came to light after the Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo in the company of the acting Regional Director of Education, NADMO and officials of the Regional Architectural Engineering Limited (AESL), had gone round to asses the extent of damage caused by the rainstorms. A detailed report by the team was therefore submitted to the Upper East Regional Minister for onward submission to the Ministry of Education and NADMO head office in Accra for assistance. Here is report by Isaac Asare
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
The recent rainstorms are said to have caused extensive damage to schools and private houses in the affected areas across the region. Though no death was recorded, most of the communities in all the nine districts across the region were reported to have been severely hit by the rainstorms as most of the roofs of affected houses were ripped off while a quite number of high tension poles were affected, thereby disrupting the flow of electricity to most parts of the region. In all, 3,639 houses and 123 schools in the region were greatly affected by the rainstorm, which according to authorities could be described as one of the worst disasters recorded in the region after the devastating floods experienced in 2007. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo at a press briefing in Bolgatanga, indicated that some victims living in the affected areas have sought refuge with friends and relatives looking for assistance from government agencies and individuals whilst others have migrated down south to seek greener pastures as a result of their predicaments. According to Mr. Woyongo, a passionate appeal has been made to the Ministry of Education to that effect, noting that the ministry as part of its contribution to addressing the problem has pledged to assist the region with an amount of 1.5 million Ghana Cedis to rehabilitate the affected schools and private properties. The Ministry, he further indicated, are seeking additional funds elsewhere to assist in that regard. Mr. Woyongo however called on all individuals and well meaning Ghanaians to come to the aid of the affected victims so as to sustain their livelihood. He implored the assistance of other stakeholders to contribute in bringing relief to affected victims by providing them with temporal sheds and roofing materials to re-roof their houses. Mr. Woyongo also appealed to heads of first and second cycle institutions to take the issue of afforestation seriously to help avert such calamities. This, Mr. Woyongo explained is vital in building a strong defence against rainstorms. He moreover stressed on the urgent for residents to reinforce and build parapet around their roofs to withstand stormy eventualities. The Media as part of their contribution also bemoaned the haphazard way at which buildings are put up with impunity and without proper assessment and supervision by the Town and country planning officials. This they lamented had contributed to indiscipline from the public as houses are erected even on waterways. They however challenged officials of the Town and Country Planning Authority to exercise their duties with professionalism taking into account the implications of indiscriminate erection of unapproved structures. The DCEs on the other hand were also charged to take oversight responsibility over activities performed by officials of the Town and Country planning and importantly call them to order to answer questions on things that are not done right. The media also tasked the various DCEs to explore the possibility of providing quality seedlings for plantation.
END
Thursday, 26 May 2011
prioritize the enskinment of queenmothers in Northern Ghana-Chiefs urged
26-05-2011
The Upper East Director of the National Commission for Civic Education, Peter Mensah has said it is appropriate for the chieftaincy institution to admit queenmothers into the various administrative structures including traditional councils and regional and National house of chiefs. This, he said, will help to complement the role of Chiefs in operating the institutions at these levels. This he said is in tune with Article 277 of the Constitution which places both chiefs and queenmothers in the same status of recognition. The Regional Director of the NCCE however noted that the Northern, Upper East and West Regions might not have queenmothers representation in the various Chieftaincy institutions even if the idea is accepted because not all traditional areas have adopted the queenmother idea. Mr. Peter Mensah was speaking at an advocacy meeting with traditional rulers from selected traditional areas across the Upper East Region. Women in the Northern, Upper East and West Regions despite being equally endowed with natural talents and abilities as their male counterparts for some time now have not been given the opportunity to prove their capabilities in most areas of development. Even though women constitutes over 51 percent of the country’s population coupled with the fact that their endowments are needed to complement those of men to produce balance development of society, there were least spoken off in the Northern sector. Culture has been noted as one of the main reasons contributing to their inability to be seen in the spot light. However the universal adoption and institutionalization of the queenmother dimension of chieftaincy in the three regions of the Northern sector was a welcome development for women because it was expected to be a stepping stone for women involvement in decision making. Even though widely accepted in the northern sector, some traditional areas in the Upper East Region are failing to accept and encourage the institution by according it legitimacy and recognition, hence their failure to enskinned queenmothers in their various areas of jurisdiction. The Paramount Chief of the Bongo Traditional area, Naba Salifu Alemyarum in an interview with Radio Ghana explained that the Chieftaincy institution in the Upper East Region is weighing the implication of this new development on the lives of the people. Naba Alemyarum said even though some traditional areas like Bongo and Bawku have enskined queenmothers, the cultural landscape in the region is undergoing a transformation which needs not to be rushed. He therefore challenged the few queenmothers who have been enskined to let their contributions manifest in society. This, he said, will help to fast track the implementation of the idea in some traditional areas. Touching on the theme: Transforming the Chieftaincy Institution in the North- the Queenmother Dimension”, Mr. Mensah indicated that women’s legitimate representation on the chieftaincy structure as a form of affirmative action can be a critical mechanism for effective and more progressive traditional governance. He therefore called for the formal institutionalization of queenmothership within the chieftaincy tradition in the Northern sector.
The Upper East Director of the National Commission for Civic Education, Peter Mensah has said it is appropriate for the chieftaincy institution to admit queenmothers into the various administrative structures including traditional councils and regional and National house of chiefs. This, he said, will help to complement the role of Chiefs in operating the institutions at these levels. This he said is in tune with Article 277 of the Constitution which places both chiefs and queenmothers in the same status of recognition. The Regional Director of the NCCE however noted that the Northern, Upper East and West Regions might not have queenmothers representation in the various Chieftaincy institutions even if the idea is accepted because not all traditional areas have adopted the queenmother idea. Mr. Peter Mensah was speaking at an advocacy meeting with traditional rulers from selected traditional areas across the Upper East Region. Women in the Northern, Upper East and West Regions despite being equally endowed with natural talents and abilities as their male counterparts for some time now have not been given the opportunity to prove their capabilities in most areas of development. Even though women constitutes over 51 percent of the country’s population coupled with the fact that their endowments are needed to complement those of men to produce balance development of society, there were least spoken off in the Northern sector. Culture has been noted as one of the main reasons contributing to their inability to be seen in the spot light. However the universal adoption and institutionalization of the queenmother dimension of chieftaincy in the three regions of the Northern sector was a welcome development for women because it was expected to be a stepping stone for women involvement in decision making. Even though widely accepted in the northern sector, some traditional areas in the Upper East Region are failing to accept and encourage the institution by according it legitimacy and recognition, hence their failure to enskinned queenmothers in their various areas of jurisdiction. The Paramount Chief of the Bongo Traditional area, Naba Salifu Alemyarum in an interview with Radio Ghana explained that the Chieftaincy institution in the Upper East Region is weighing the implication of this new development on the lives of the people. Naba Alemyarum said even though some traditional areas like Bongo and Bawku have enskined queenmothers, the cultural landscape in the region is undergoing a transformation which needs not to be rushed. He therefore challenged the few queenmothers who have been enskined to let their contributions manifest in society. This, he said, will help to fast track the implementation of the idea in some traditional areas. Touching on the theme: Transforming the Chieftaincy Institution in the North- the Queenmother Dimension”, Mr. Mensah indicated that women’s legitimate representation on the chieftaincy structure as a form of affirmative action can be a critical mechanism for effective and more progressive traditional governance. He therefore called for the formal institutionalization of queenmothership within the chieftaincy tradition in the Northern sector.
Government donates Vehicles and motorbikes to Health Centers and Training Institutions in the Upper East
24-05-2011
The Upper East Regional Health Directorate has taken delivery of a number of vehicles and buses to be distributed to the various health centers and training institutions in the region. The gesture which is being spearheaded by the government under the Ministry of Health include 17 brand new pick up and three 30-seater buses including an old bus that has been rebranded to help increase outreach services in the region. A number of motorbikes will as well be distributed to some health personnel manning the various sub districts at the community level. At a brief presentation ceremony held at the premises of the Regional health Directorate, the Upper East Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. John Koku Awoonor-Williams charged the beneficiary institutions and health facilities to put the vehicles to good use, since most of them are on hire purchase, and more importantly, ensure their lifespan through regular check and maintenance. He expressed the hope that the donation of the vehicles which are being insured comprehensively will enhance service delivery, output and indicators so that they can justify such investment. Failure in achieving the expected results will mean that the health sector of the region is not up to task, and that there is no justification to complain that the region lack the resources to deliver. Dr. Awoonor-Williams also cautioned beneficiary driver to use the vehicles for its intended purposes since they are not meant for luxury. According to him, the greatest impact of the gesture is to facilitate the movement of health personnel in the course of their duty so that they can have easy access to vaccines and other logistics. This, he noted, will improve their outreach and referral system and moreover improve upon practical training of beneficiary health institutions. The Principal of the Bolgatanga Nursing Training School, Mr. Mark Mumin who received the vehicles on behalf of the beneficiaries described the gesture as a useful one and thanked the government for heeding to their incessant call. The gesture, he further said is another step in making health service workers mobile. Morbidity, he indicated is critical, hence the need for more of such gestures to contribute in the fight against maternal and infant mortality in the region. Mr. Mumin also emphasized that the provision of the vehicles will ensure total promptness in attending to emergencies and work as well as supervision at all times. He seized the opportunity to advised beneficiaries to ensure regular maintenance of the vehicles so that they can benefit from more of such donations. Rev. Fr. Roge Akologo from the Catholic cathedral parish, Bolgatanga, later administered his benediction to officially inaugurate the gesture.
GBC END IA
The Upper East Regional Health Directorate has taken delivery of a number of vehicles and buses to be distributed to the various health centers and training institutions in the region. The gesture which is being spearheaded by the government under the Ministry of Health include 17 brand new pick up and three 30-seater buses including an old bus that has been rebranded to help increase outreach services in the region. A number of motorbikes will as well be distributed to some health personnel manning the various sub districts at the community level. At a brief presentation ceremony held at the premises of the Regional health Directorate, the Upper East Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. John Koku Awoonor-Williams charged the beneficiary institutions and health facilities to put the vehicles to good use, since most of them are on hire purchase, and more importantly, ensure their lifespan through regular check and maintenance. He expressed the hope that the donation of the vehicles which are being insured comprehensively will enhance service delivery, output and indicators so that they can justify such investment. Failure in achieving the expected results will mean that the health sector of the region is not up to task, and that there is no justification to complain that the region lack the resources to deliver. Dr. Awoonor-Williams also cautioned beneficiary driver to use the vehicles for its intended purposes since they are not meant for luxury. According to him, the greatest impact of the gesture is to facilitate the movement of health personnel in the course of their duty so that they can have easy access to vaccines and other logistics. This, he noted, will improve their outreach and referral system and moreover improve upon practical training of beneficiary health institutions. The Principal of the Bolgatanga Nursing Training School, Mr. Mark Mumin who received the vehicles on behalf of the beneficiaries described the gesture as a useful one and thanked the government for heeding to their incessant call. The gesture, he further said is another step in making health service workers mobile. Morbidity, he indicated is critical, hence the need for more of such gestures to contribute in the fight against maternal and infant mortality in the region. Mr. Mumin also emphasized that the provision of the vehicles will ensure total promptness in attending to emergencies and work as well as supervision at all times. He seized the opportunity to advised beneficiaries to ensure regular maintenance of the vehicles so that they can benefit from more of such donations. Rev. Fr. Roge Akologo from the Catholic cathedral parish, Bolgatanga, later administered his benediction to officially inaugurate the gesture.
GBC END IA
Audit Service announce plans to embark on Modernization Initiatives
24-05-2011
Narration: In a bid to keep the country’s Audit Service abreast with modern business trends, management and board have resolved to revitalize and re-engineer the service through a number of initiatives born out of the modernization project between the service and the National Audit Office-UK to help achieve its vision of becoming one of the leading supreme Audit Institutions in the world. This is to facilitate their activities in delivering professional, excellent and cost effective auditing services in the country. This was made known by the Director-General Audit Service, Richard Quartey at an interactive durbar held with staff of the service at Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region. This was his first maiden visit to the region since his assumption of office. Isaac Asare was at the durbar and has the rest of the story for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN AT
END CUE AT
ANCR V/O
Report
The Auditor General’s, visit forms part of his 3-day working tour of the three northern regions to familiarize and acquaint himself with staff of the service in the said regions and to have first hand information on issues and problems relating to the execution of their mandate in order to take the needed high level decisions in providing the best solutions to their challenges and also create the right working environment for improved productivity in the Audit Service. He was accompanied by the new board of directors of the service among other top management staff from Accra. The Auditor General and his high profile delegation first paid a courtesy call on the Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo at his office to inform him about their presence in the region and as well discuss relevant issues relating to their core mandate. Mr. Woyongo in his brief remark commended the service for their enormous contribution in ensuring probity and accountability in both the private and the public sector. Their visit, he noted, will serve as a morale booster to staff in the region since they are saddled with numerous constraints. Mr. Woyongo therefore challenged the leadership of the audit service to step up their effort in keeping offices and department on their toes so that the country’s finances would not be misappropriated by selfish individuals of high places. The Deputy Regional Minister, Mrs. Lucy Awuni also charged management of the service to help train staff of various institutions on modalities of ensuring sanity in their finances. She gave an account of the recent Public Account Committee sitting, which to her, was one of the embarrassing moment in the history of the country’s financial management, to the effect that most financial heads of institutions were seen to be lacking prudent financial management and skills to operate. At a staff durbar, the Auditor General, Mr. Quartey said the service would soon experience total transformation in its service delivery and outlined moves to revitalize the service through modernization initiatives, which includes the Performance Management and Appraisal Framework (PMAF) and the Resource Management System (RMS). These initiatives, he stated, are geared towards the achievement of the service and charged staff to contribute their quota towards its realization since it is an avenue for them to deliver on their mandate. Mr. Quartey also expressed management’s determination to solving the infrastructural challenges of staff in the region and admonished personnel to desist from all corrupt practices as management will deal decisively with anyone found implicated or caught in any act of corruption. The Board Chairman of the Service, Mr. John Chinogo, on his part said the service among other interventions is working towards obtaining a slot in the oil and gas exploration and urged staff to take advantage of that opportunity to ensure accountability at all sectors of the economy. The Acting Regional Auditor, Mr. Sule Saaka was grateful for the visit and expressed the hope that their numerous constraints put before the board would receive the needed attention they deserve. The board later proceeded to Bawku to inspect an abandoned project belonging to the service and also payed a courtesy call on the Bawku Naba, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka, at his palace. The tour ended with an interaction with the MCE for Bawku, Musa Abdullai, and the executive committee members of the assembly to deliberate on measures to ensure the speedy completion of the abandoned project which has existed for the past 30 years.
END
Narration: In a bid to keep the country’s Audit Service abreast with modern business trends, management and board have resolved to revitalize and re-engineer the service through a number of initiatives born out of the modernization project between the service and the National Audit Office-UK to help achieve its vision of becoming one of the leading supreme Audit Institutions in the world. This is to facilitate their activities in delivering professional, excellent and cost effective auditing services in the country. This was made known by the Director-General Audit Service, Richard Quartey at an interactive durbar held with staff of the service at Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region. This was his first maiden visit to the region since his assumption of office. Isaac Asare was at the durbar and has the rest of the story for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN AT
END CUE AT
ANCR V/O
Report
The Auditor General’s, visit forms part of his 3-day working tour of the three northern regions to familiarize and acquaint himself with staff of the service in the said regions and to have first hand information on issues and problems relating to the execution of their mandate in order to take the needed high level decisions in providing the best solutions to their challenges and also create the right working environment for improved productivity in the Audit Service. He was accompanied by the new board of directors of the service among other top management staff from Accra. The Auditor General and his high profile delegation first paid a courtesy call on the Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo at his office to inform him about their presence in the region and as well discuss relevant issues relating to their core mandate. Mr. Woyongo in his brief remark commended the service for their enormous contribution in ensuring probity and accountability in both the private and the public sector. Their visit, he noted, will serve as a morale booster to staff in the region since they are saddled with numerous constraints. Mr. Woyongo therefore challenged the leadership of the audit service to step up their effort in keeping offices and department on their toes so that the country’s finances would not be misappropriated by selfish individuals of high places. The Deputy Regional Minister, Mrs. Lucy Awuni also charged management of the service to help train staff of various institutions on modalities of ensuring sanity in their finances. She gave an account of the recent Public Account Committee sitting, which to her, was one of the embarrassing moment in the history of the country’s financial management, to the effect that most financial heads of institutions were seen to be lacking prudent financial management and skills to operate. At a staff durbar, the Auditor General, Mr. Quartey said the service would soon experience total transformation in its service delivery and outlined moves to revitalize the service through modernization initiatives, which includes the Performance Management and Appraisal Framework (PMAF) and the Resource Management System (RMS). These initiatives, he stated, are geared towards the achievement of the service and charged staff to contribute their quota towards its realization since it is an avenue for them to deliver on their mandate. Mr. Quartey also expressed management’s determination to solving the infrastructural challenges of staff in the region and admonished personnel to desist from all corrupt practices as management will deal decisively with anyone found implicated or caught in any act of corruption. The Board Chairman of the Service, Mr. John Chinogo, on his part said the service among other interventions is working towards obtaining a slot in the oil and gas exploration and urged staff to take advantage of that opportunity to ensure accountability at all sectors of the economy. The Acting Regional Auditor, Mr. Sule Saaka was grateful for the visit and expressed the hope that their numerous constraints put before the board would receive the needed attention they deserve. The board later proceeded to Bawku to inspect an abandoned project belonging to the service and also payed a courtesy call on the Bawku Naba, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka, at his palace. The tour ended with an interaction with the MCE for Bawku, Musa Abdullai, and the executive committee members of the assembly to deliberate on measures to ensure the speedy completion of the abandoned project which has existed for the past 30 years.
END
Sunday, 22 May 2011
Government challenged to promote the growth of local Industries in Northern Ghana
22-05-2011
The Northern Patriots in Research and Advocacy (NORPRA), a youth advocacy group based in the Upper East Region is calling on the Mills led administration to as a matter of urgency create equal working opportunities for local businesses countrywide so as to give practical meaning to the country’s decentralization programme. According to them, local firms and industries, particularly those in northern Ghana are left to collapse due to lack of funds and support from government and relevant stakeholders. The group is therefore demanding explanation from the government as to why local firms in Northern Ghana are consistently marginalized in the award of contracts though they posses the requisite skills, capacity, competence and expertise as their counterparts in other regions. NORPRA made particular reference to the award of contract given to a Kumasi based furniture industry, Yaw Kokroko Enterprise to construct and distribute student beds to all second cycle institutions in the Upper East at the total neglect of local artisans who have the same requisite personnel and skills to do the job. Such discrimination they noted, tends to discourage local expertise to perform creditably, since they are denied the opportunity to exhibit their potentials. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga, the President of NORPRA, Bismark Adongo Yorogo said government’s failure to ward certain contracts to equally qualified businesses in deprived areas of the country has contributed in deepening the unemployment situation among the youth and has also become a push factor for out-migration to towns and cities in search for non-existing jobs. The situation, he further said has exacerbated the already existing problem of streetism and its associate problems among the northern youth and challenged government to take a second look at the problem and tackle it with all the seriousness it deserves. Mr. Ayorogo explained that until conscious efforts are made by government to create equal opportunities for businesses, the better Ghana agenda of 'Stimulating Growth for Development and job creation’ as captured in the 2011 budget statement, will be a mirage. He therefore called on government to help extend its support for local businesses in order to create opportunities at the local level. He also charged government to assist in providing storage facilities for schools in the region since his recent visit to the school revealed sadly that there were no storage facilities to store the beds which were yet to be assembled by the contractor. The beds, he lamented, are received and stored in the open at the mercy of the weather waiting for an undefined time for dormitories to be constructed. Mr. Adongo Ayorogo therefore called for the support of all stakeholders in the education sector of the region to help complement government’s effort in providing suitable storage facilities for such deprived schools to enhance effective teaching and learning at all times.
GBC END IA/
The Northern Patriots in Research and Advocacy (NORPRA), a youth advocacy group based in the Upper East Region is calling on the Mills led administration to as a matter of urgency create equal working opportunities for local businesses countrywide so as to give practical meaning to the country’s decentralization programme. According to them, local firms and industries, particularly those in northern Ghana are left to collapse due to lack of funds and support from government and relevant stakeholders. The group is therefore demanding explanation from the government as to why local firms in Northern Ghana are consistently marginalized in the award of contracts though they posses the requisite skills, capacity, competence and expertise as their counterparts in other regions. NORPRA made particular reference to the award of contract given to a Kumasi based furniture industry, Yaw Kokroko Enterprise to construct and distribute student beds to all second cycle institutions in the Upper East at the total neglect of local artisans who have the same requisite personnel and skills to do the job. Such discrimination they noted, tends to discourage local expertise to perform creditably, since they are denied the opportunity to exhibit their potentials. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga, the President of NORPRA, Bismark Adongo Yorogo said government’s failure to ward certain contracts to equally qualified businesses in deprived areas of the country has contributed in deepening the unemployment situation among the youth and has also become a push factor for out-migration to towns and cities in search for non-existing jobs. The situation, he further said has exacerbated the already existing problem of streetism and its associate problems among the northern youth and challenged government to take a second look at the problem and tackle it with all the seriousness it deserves. Mr. Ayorogo explained that until conscious efforts are made by government to create equal opportunities for businesses, the better Ghana agenda of 'Stimulating Growth for Development and job creation’ as captured in the 2011 budget statement, will be a mirage. He therefore called on government to help extend its support for local businesses in order to create opportunities at the local level. He also charged government to assist in providing storage facilities for schools in the region since his recent visit to the school revealed sadly that there were no storage facilities to store the beds which were yet to be assembled by the contractor. The beds, he lamented, are received and stored in the open at the mercy of the weather waiting for an undefined time for dormitories to be constructed. Mr. Adongo Ayorogo therefore called for the support of all stakeholders in the education sector of the region to help complement government’s effort in providing suitable storage facilities for such deprived schools to enhance effective teaching and learning at all times.
GBC END IA/
Saturday, 21 May 2011
'Be mindful of actions and Utterances': TEIN Members Charged
21-05-2011
Narration: The Bolgatanga Polytechnic branch of the Tertiary Education Institutions Network (TEIN) has held its swearing in of its new executives at Bolgatanga with a call on NDC party members to be mindful of actions and utterances that have the tendency of creating disunity among the rank and file of the party but rather create healthy avenues to attract more people into the party particularly those belonging to the other political divides. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who made the call was on the strong conviction that the NDC party was capable of retaining its Presidential seat, come 2012 only if members adhere to the lay down rules and procedures enshrined in the party’s constitution. Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN AT
END CUE AT
ANCR V/O
Report
Mr. Woyogo said the NDC as a social democratic party, believes in ideals and principals that serves the interest of the majority of the people instead of individual interest, hence the need for party faithfuls to desist from the use of foul languages against their political opponents. Mr. Woyongo said the use of misguided and derogatory statements made by social commentators on radio as well as other medium have the power to inflame passion and worse of it all cause mayhem and violent behaviours. He however seized the opportunity to advice all political parties to be civil and decorous in their utterances in order not to spark of violence since we all aiming at a common goal. Mr. Woyongo who was also particularly concerned about the current happenings in the NDC party, described the situation as a ‘storm in a tea cup’ stressing that the party despite its internal political struggle and wrangling, would come out stronger and more united after the primary to reaffirm ‘ the democratic credential s and supremacy of the NDC”. To him the NDC has come along way and poised to retain power in spite of all challenges. According to Mr. Woyongo the number of developmental projects springing up in the country particularly those taken place in second cycle and tertiary institutions is an ample indication that they are on their way to victory. Mr. Woyongo described such developmental projects as unprecedented in the history of the country, emphasizing that such developments are in partial fulfillment to their campaign promises made to Ghanaians and that more are yet to be done. He outlined a number of developmental projects earmarked for construction in the region and the country in general and called on TEIN members to use their power to reach out to more people so as to ensure massive victory come 2012. He also entreated the new executives to rise up to their responsibilities and face the challenges ahead. The Regional Youth Organiser, Robert Yel-Oni, on his part acknowledged the invaluable contribution of TEIN and urged its members not to be worried about the current developments of the party but rather give priority attention to what they can still contribute to ensure that the party delivers on its mandate. He said with the maturity of the leadership of the party they are poised to overcome all obstacles faced by the party. He however urged members of the TEIN to embark on their membership drive to win more members to their fold. The Outgoing President of TEIN, Nantomah Fuseini, commended the regional youth wing of the party for their level of commitment and selflessness since no youth group in the region had been blamed for taken to the streets to indulge in violent demonstrations to register their grievances. He therefore cautioned party members to remain committed and importantly stick to the ideals of the party for total development. A 10-member newly elected TEIN executives were later sworn into office. Moreover, a fund raising and a symbolic handing over ceremony also took place. Mr. Woyongo during the fund raising donated 5,000 Ghana Cedis to support the activities of TEIN. Other dignitaries including the Kassena-Nankana District Chief Executive, Emmanuel Andema, and the DCE for Talensi-Nabdam, Mrs. Vivian Anarfo who were also present to grace the occasion, as well gave their widows mite in support of TEIN.
Narration: The Bolgatanga Polytechnic branch of the Tertiary Education Institutions Network (TEIN) has held its swearing in of its new executives at Bolgatanga with a call on NDC party members to be mindful of actions and utterances that have the tendency of creating disunity among the rank and file of the party but rather create healthy avenues to attract more people into the party particularly those belonging to the other political divides. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who made the call was on the strong conviction that the NDC party was capable of retaining its Presidential seat, come 2012 only if members adhere to the lay down rules and procedures enshrined in the party’s constitution. Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN AT
END CUE AT
ANCR V/O
Report
Mr. Woyogo said the NDC as a social democratic party, believes in ideals and principals that serves the interest of the majority of the people instead of individual interest, hence the need for party faithfuls to desist from the use of foul languages against their political opponents. Mr. Woyongo said the use of misguided and derogatory statements made by social commentators on radio as well as other medium have the power to inflame passion and worse of it all cause mayhem and violent behaviours. He however seized the opportunity to advice all political parties to be civil and decorous in their utterances in order not to spark of violence since we all aiming at a common goal. Mr. Woyongo who was also particularly concerned about the current happenings in the NDC party, described the situation as a ‘storm in a tea cup’ stressing that the party despite its internal political struggle and wrangling, would come out stronger and more united after the primary to reaffirm ‘ the democratic credential s and supremacy of the NDC”. To him the NDC has come along way and poised to retain power in spite of all challenges. According to Mr. Woyongo the number of developmental projects springing up in the country particularly those taken place in second cycle and tertiary institutions is an ample indication that they are on their way to victory. Mr. Woyongo described such developmental projects as unprecedented in the history of the country, emphasizing that such developments are in partial fulfillment to their campaign promises made to Ghanaians and that more are yet to be done. He outlined a number of developmental projects earmarked for construction in the region and the country in general and called on TEIN members to use their power to reach out to more people so as to ensure massive victory come 2012. He also entreated the new executives to rise up to their responsibilities and face the challenges ahead. The Regional Youth Organiser, Robert Yel-Oni, on his part acknowledged the invaluable contribution of TEIN and urged its members not to be worried about the current developments of the party but rather give priority attention to what they can still contribute to ensure that the party delivers on its mandate. He said with the maturity of the leadership of the party they are poised to overcome all obstacles faced by the party. He however urged members of the TEIN to embark on their membership drive to win more members to their fold. The Outgoing President of TEIN, Nantomah Fuseini, commended the regional youth wing of the party for their level of commitment and selflessness since no youth group in the region had been blamed for taken to the streets to indulge in violent demonstrations to register their grievances. He therefore cautioned party members to remain committed and importantly stick to the ideals of the party for total development. A 10-member newly elected TEIN executives were later sworn into office. Moreover, a fund raising and a symbolic handing over ceremony also took place. Mr. Woyongo during the fund raising donated 5,000 Ghana Cedis to support the activities of TEIN. Other dignitaries including the Kassena-Nankana District Chief Executive, Emmanuel Andema, and the DCE for Talensi-Nabdam, Mrs. Vivian Anarfo who were also present to grace the occasion, as well gave their widows mite in support of TEIN.
Jealous Woman Remanded For Attempted Murder and Assault
21-05-2011
The Bolgatanga Magistrate Court Presided over by her Worship, Vivian Yamusah has remanded a 31 year old woman for attempting to poison two of her children. The accused, Vida Abugre is said to be married with the complainant, Roland Atampure, aged 33 and a trader at Sumbrugu- Kolgo, a village near Bolgatanga. The two are married with two children aged 10 and 3 respectively. According to the Regional Police Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector, Thomas Agbanyo, the marriage of the two started turning sour as there were accusations and counter accusations, compelling the woman to leave her matrimonial home on April, 4, 2011. The husband on the other side refused to let the children go with her as demanded by the accused. Interestingly, the accused later resurfaced, returning to the house with a diabolic mind. Chief Inspector Agbanyo said the accused during the funeral of the father-in-law, ordered the elder son to buy a poisonous substance from a nearby store. The elder son on arrival gave the substance to the mother who quickly mixed it with water in a cup and persisted that the children take it. Sensing danger, the elder son took to his heels but the accused then held the younger one trying to force the drink on him. The accused husband then appeared at the scene when he heard the child screaming in the room by forcing the trapped door opened. The accused then wanted to throw the poisonous substance away but was retrieved by the husband for evidence. The complainant in an attempt to rescue the younger child was subjected to physical assault and received a bite in his left armpit and another on his left rib. The accused, Vida Abugre was therefore arrested by personnel of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit of the police and charged for attempted murder and assault. The accused according to Chief Inspector Agbanyo would be put before the high court for prosecution.
GBC END IA/
The Bolgatanga Magistrate Court Presided over by her Worship, Vivian Yamusah has remanded a 31 year old woman for attempting to poison two of her children. The accused, Vida Abugre is said to be married with the complainant, Roland Atampure, aged 33 and a trader at Sumbrugu- Kolgo, a village near Bolgatanga. The two are married with two children aged 10 and 3 respectively. According to the Regional Police Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector, Thomas Agbanyo, the marriage of the two started turning sour as there were accusations and counter accusations, compelling the woman to leave her matrimonial home on April, 4, 2011. The husband on the other side refused to let the children go with her as demanded by the accused. Interestingly, the accused later resurfaced, returning to the house with a diabolic mind. Chief Inspector Agbanyo said the accused during the funeral of the father-in-law, ordered the elder son to buy a poisonous substance from a nearby store. The elder son on arrival gave the substance to the mother who quickly mixed it with water in a cup and persisted that the children take it. Sensing danger, the elder son took to his heels but the accused then held the younger one trying to force the drink on him. The accused husband then appeared at the scene when he heard the child screaming in the room by forcing the trapped door opened. The accused then wanted to throw the poisonous substance away but was retrieved by the husband for evidence. The complainant in an attempt to rescue the younger child was subjected to physical assault and received a bite in his left armpit and another on his left rib. The accused, Vida Abugre was therefore arrested by personnel of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit of the police and charged for attempted murder and assault. The accused according to Chief Inspector Agbanyo would be put before the high court for prosecution.
GBC END IA/
Baby thief busted by Bolgatanga Police
20-05-2011
A 37 year old tomato trader alleged to have been involved in the stealing of babies has been busted by the Bolgatanga Police upon a tip off by an informant. The accused, Martha Abangre who is presently in police custody, is said to have stolen three children of which the latest is a 3 month old baby girl brought from Kumasi. She would be arraigned before court and prosecuted if found guilty of all charges leveled against her. Narrating the incident to Radio Ghana, the Regional Police Commander, ACP Bright Oduro said the accused was picked from her hide out based on reliable information that she had in her custody a month old baby girl, which according to sources was not her biological child. In addition, a 9 year old girl who is alleged to have been with the accused all her life was also discovered, though casual observation by competent gynecologist had proven beyond all reasonable doubt that she was barren. Report reaching the police also indicated that another baby she stole three years ago died in her custody six months after staying with her. According to ACP Bright Oduro the accused when interrogated denied all allegations levelled against her claiming that she delivered the 1 month old baby during her recent stay in neighbouring Burkina Faso, whilst the 9 year old girl was given to her by a friend who currently resides in the United States, on grounds that the friend did not want her white lover to find out about the baby. To her, she has no evil intention about the girl as she has stayed with her since infancy. Upon intensive interrogation Abangre confessed that she bought the little child at 350 Ghana Cedis from a friend in Kumasi after complaining to her, her inability to bring forth a child, adding that her actions were as a result of social pressure of her incapability of having a baby. Disclosing her side of the story to the press, the accused indicated that she was declared medically unfit to give birth after loosing her pregnancy at the age of 18. Her womb, she stated, was removed as a result of the lost pregnancy. She then became a victim of stigmatization and intimidation from friends and relatives, thus subjecting her to public ridicule. Due to her problem, her former husband, Mr. Asakia Adongo, accused her wrongly and divorced her at the time she needed care and attention. The situation, she further said compelled her to sought alternative means of having a baby all by herself. According to her she has no ritual intention behind her actions and pleaded for fair judgment when arraigned before court. ACP Oduro in his last remark said the accused though had admitted finally to the charges levelled against her, shall still face severe punishment to serve as deterrent o others as the region is still grappling with the problem of child migration and trafficking among other abuses on children. The police, he emphasized would continue to expose such criminal activities from the society and therefore urged the public to assist in that regard. He reiterated that all information leading to the arrest of such criminals will be greatly appreciated with reward packages.
GBC END IA/
A 37 year old tomato trader alleged to have been involved in the stealing of babies has been busted by the Bolgatanga Police upon a tip off by an informant. The accused, Martha Abangre who is presently in police custody, is said to have stolen three children of which the latest is a 3 month old baby girl brought from Kumasi. She would be arraigned before court and prosecuted if found guilty of all charges leveled against her. Narrating the incident to Radio Ghana, the Regional Police Commander, ACP Bright Oduro said the accused was picked from her hide out based on reliable information that she had in her custody a month old baby girl, which according to sources was not her biological child. In addition, a 9 year old girl who is alleged to have been with the accused all her life was also discovered, though casual observation by competent gynecologist had proven beyond all reasonable doubt that she was barren. Report reaching the police also indicated that another baby she stole three years ago died in her custody six months after staying with her. According to ACP Bright Oduro the accused when interrogated denied all allegations levelled against her claiming that she delivered the 1 month old baby during her recent stay in neighbouring Burkina Faso, whilst the 9 year old girl was given to her by a friend who currently resides in the United States, on grounds that the friend did not want her white lover to find out about the baby. To her, she has no evil intention about the girl as she has stayed with her since infancy. Upon intensive interrogation Abangre confessed that she bought the little child at 350 Ghana Cedis from a friend in Kumasi after complaining to her, her inability to bring forth a child, adding that her actions were as a result of social pressure of her incapability of having a baby. Disclosing her side of the story to the press, the accused indicated that she was declared medically unfit to give birth after loosing her pregnancy at the age of 18. Her womb, she stated, was removed as a result of the lost pregnancy. She then became a victim of stigmatization and intimidation from friends and relatives, thus subjecting her to public ridicule. Due to her problem, her former husband, Mr. Asakia Adongo, accused her wrongly and divorced her at the time she needed care and attention. The situation, she further said compelled her to sought alternative means of having a baby all by herself. According to her she has no ritual intention behind her actions and pleaded for fair judgment when arraigned before court. ACP Oduro in his last remark said the accused though had admitted finally to the charges levelled against her, shall still face severe punishment to serve as deterrent o others as the region is still grappling with the problem of child migration and trafficking among other abuses on children. The police, he emphasized would continue to expose such criminal activities from the society and therefore urged the public to assist in that regard. He reiterated that all information leading to the arrest of such criminals will be greatly appreciated with reward packages.
GBC END IA/
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
‘Put an End to Bribery and Corruption’: Security Agencies Charged
18-05-2011
18-05-2011
Narration: Cote d’Ivoire has been identified as the worst performance in terms of controls, bribes and delays followed by Mali and Senegal as compared to other neighbouring countries. Ghana, on the other hand has for the past two years, achieved the lowest level of average bribes, decreasing its bribery activities from 40 Ghana Cedis per trip in 2008 to 20 Ghana Cedis per trip in 2009. This came to light at a stakeholder’s advocacy workshop on transport facilitation on Tema-Paga Corridor held at the Upper East Regional Capital, Bolgatanga. The Transport Director for the West Africa Trade Hub, Niels Rasmussen, who made the disclosure, said road harassment on interstates corridors across the West Africa costs states tens of thousands of US dollars a month obstructing the path to sustainable economic growth. Isaac Asare has the rest of the story for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
The USAID sponsored programme which was under the theme: “ Challenges facing Transport and Trade on Tema-Paga corridor” brought on board various stakeholders in the transport industry. Notably among them were officials from the Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority, Ghana Shippers Council as well as security agencies and shipping experts from neighbouring Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. It was among other interventions, aimed at addressing the numerous challenges affecting the activities of the various border posts and, moreover, ensuring the promotion of trade between Ghana and its neighbouring countries, particularly landlocked areas like Burkina Faso and Mali. The issue of bribery and corruption coupled with unnecessary delays and highway checkpoints on the countries roads and border posts which took the centre stage at the meeting received widespread criticisms as most participants condemned the illegalities experienced on the roads. Mr. Rasmussen in a presentation made mention of numerous corrupt practices on the country’s trade barriers, describing them as unacceptable. He was particularly concerned about the long delays some unscrupulous officials imposed on truck drivers, stressing that, such negative practices tend to affect bilateral trade between Ghana and the other ECOWAS member states. Ghana alone he noted has about 45 active checkpoints between Tema and Paga with 34 police checkpoints and 11 custom checkpoints. Moreover, 80 percent of the bribes are paid in half of the checkpoints with half of the delays occurring at the Paga area and 10 percent near Kumasi. According to him the Paga border checkpoints has the highest bribery allegations with officials demanding higher than expected. Mr. Rasmussen, who is also a USAID contractor therefore cautioned custom officials manning the various checkpoints to desist from such acts in order to facilitate and make trade competitive within the sub-region. He also charged the security agencies to do their best in tackling the menace. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo seized the opportunity to advice security agencies manning the various checkpoints to refrain from bribery and corruption and ensure safety and security on the roads since the country is at risk of losing millions of dollars in trade annually so that the economy can continue to grow and create opportunities for the citizenry. He commended Ghana for its remarkable achievements and encouraged officials to end all corrupt practices to earn more laurels. To him Ghana will, continue to be a leading country in many road transport aspects, including axle load regulations, governance and infrastructure if measures are taken to reduce the delays and bribery practices meted on local and foreign drivers. Officials from the Ports and Harbour Authority, CEPS and the police among others later took participants through their activities, challenges as well as the way forward in achieving economic growth through enhanced trade.
END
18-05-2011
Narration: Cote d’Ivoire has been identified as the worst performance in terms of controls, bribes and delays followed by Mali and Senegal as compared to other neighbouring countries. Ghana, on the other hand has for the past two years, achieved the lowest level of average bribes, decreasing its bribery activities from 40 Ghana Cedis per trip in 2008 to 20 Ghana Cedis per trip in 2009. This came to light at a stakeholder’s advocacy workshop on transport facilitation on Tema-Paga Corridor held at the Upper East Regional Capital, Bolgatanga. The Transport Director for the West Africa Trade Hub, Niels Rasmussen, who made the disclosure, said road harassment on interstates corridors across the West Africa costs states tens of thousands of US dollars a month obstructing the path to sustainable economic growth. Isaac Asare has the rest of the story for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
The USAID sponsored programme which was under the theme: “ Challenges facing Transport and Trade on Tema-Paga corridor” brought on board various stakeholders in the transport industry. Notably among them were officials from the Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority, Ghana Shippers Council as well as security agencies and shipping experts from neighbouring Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. It was among other interventions, aimed at addressing the numerous challenges affecting the activities of the various border posts and, moreover, ensuring the promotion of trade between Ghana and its neighbouring countries, particularly landlocked areas like Burkina Faso and Mali. The issue of bribery and corruption coupled with unnecessary delays and highway checkpoints on the countries roads and border posts which took the centre stage at the meeting received widespread criticisms as most participants condemned the illegalities experienced on the roads. Mr. Rasmussen in a presentation made mention of numerous corrupt practices on the country’s trade barriers, describing them as unacceptable. He was particularly concerned about the long delays some unscrupulous officials imposed on truck drivers, stressing that, such negative practices tend to affect bilateral trade between Ghana and the other ECOWAS member states. Ghana alone he noted has about 45 active checkpoints between Tema and Paga with 34 police checkpoints and 11 custom checkpoints. Moreover, 80 percent of the bribes are paid in half of the checkpoints with half of the delays occurring at the Paga area and 10 percent near Kumasi. According to him the Paga border checkpoints has the highest bribery allegations with officials demanding higher than expected. Mr. Rasmussen, who is also a USAID contractor therefore cautioned custom officials manning the various checkpoints to desist from such acts in order to facilitate and make trade competitive within the sub-region. He also charged the security agencies to do their best in tackling the menace. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo seized the opportunity to advice security agencies manning the various checkpoints to refrain from bribery and corruption and ensure safety and security on the roads since the country is at risk of losing millions of dollars in trade annually so that the economy can continue to grow and create opportunities for the citizenry. He commended Ghana for its remarkable achievements and encouraged officials to end all corrupt practices to earn more laurels. To him Ghana will, continue to be a leading country in many road transport aspects, including axle load regulations, governance and infrastructure if measures are taken to reduce the delays and bribery practices meted on local and foreign drivers. Officials from the Ports and Harbour Authority, CEPS and the police among others later took participants through their activities, challenges as well as the way forward in achieving economic growth through enhanced trade.
END
NYEP in Kassena-Nankana on course
17-05-2011
The performance of the National Youth Employment Programme (NYEP) in the Kassena-Nankana District of the Upper East Region is said to be having positive impact on the residents in the area as it has contributed in reducing crime and unemployment rate in the district particularly, the youth. The District Coordinator of the NYEP, Karim Mumin who disclosed this to Radio Ghana at Navrongo said the programme has so far engaged more than 50 percent of the youth in the area involving persons with disability. The programme has reiterated has become vibrant since it is currently undergoing massive restructuring to engage more unemployed youth to add up to the existing ones. It is also building the capacity of individuals and beneficiaries to make them productive in their areas of interest. To this effect, 150 young ladies resident in the district are currently undergoing training in the hairdressing model of the programme, whilst 57 of the women engaged in the dressmaking model have passed out and are due for graduation. According to Mr. Mumin, the programme since its inception in the district has so far engaged 350 people under the teaching model with 192 engaged as health extension workers. Additionally, 16 Community Protection Assistance and 10 Prison Service Assistance have also benefited under the programme. The programme he further indicated has benefited a whole lot of individuals including unemployed graduates who are being denied the opportunity to exhibit their academic potentials. Interestingly, the Trade and Vocation model under the programme is currently partnering with the Asongtaba Cottage Industry to provide vocational training to illiterates so as to build their individual capacities. The sector in view of this has employed expertise to offer training to the beneficiaries whilst they are being paid for their services. Mr. Munin said efforts are also being made to introduce new models to fill the loopholes in the programme. He added that the 57 persons with disability engaged under the programme will continue to receive massive support in the form of training so that at the end they will have something to live on. Mr. Mumin mentioned funding as one of their major challenges and expressed the hope that government will ensure the sustainability of the programme by providing the needed funding to augment their activities. He therefore urged all to lend their support for the programme and also take advantage of it to improve their livelihood.
GBC END IA/
The performance of the National Youth Employment Programme (NYEP) in the Kassena-Nankana District of the Upper East Region is said to be having positive impact on the residents in the area as it has contributed in reducing crime and unemployment rate in the district particularly, the youth. The District Coordinator of the NYEP, Karim Mumin who disclosed this to Radio Ghana at Navrongo said the programme has so far engaged more than 50 percent of the youth in the area involving persons with disability. The programme has reiterated has become vibrant since it is currently undergoing massive restructuring to engage more unemployed youth to add up to the existing ones. It is also building the capacity of individuals and beneficiaries to make them productive in their areas of interest. To this effect, 150 young ladies resident in the district are currently undergoing training in the hairdressing model of the programme, whilst 57 of the women engaged in the dressmaking model have passed out and are due for graduation. According to Mr. Mumin, the programme since its inception in the district has so far engaged 350 people under the teaching model with 192 engaged as health extension workers. Additionally, 16 Community Protection Assistance and 10 Prison Service Assistance have also benefited under the programme. The programme he further indicated has benefited a whole lot of individuals including unemployed graduates who are being denied the opportunity to exhibit their academic potentials. Interestingly, the Trade and Vocation model under the programme is currently partnering with the Asongtaba Cottage Industry to provide vocational training to illiterates so as to build their individual capacities. The sector in view of this has employed expertise to offer training to the beneficiaries whilst they are being paid for their services. Mr. Munin said efforts are also being made to introduce new models to fill the loopholes in the programme. He added that the 57 persons with disability engaged under the programme will continue to receive massive support in the form of training so that at the end they will have something to live on. Mr. Mumin mentioned funding as one of their major challenges and expressed the hope that government will ensure the sustainability of the programme by providing the needed funding to augment their activities. He therefore urged all to lend their support for the programme and also take advantage of it to improve their livelihood.
GBC END IA/
Need to Support Child Right Clubs
15-05-2011
The Country Director of Afrikids, a non -governmental organization working in the area of child rights and protection, Nicholas Kumah, has stressed the importance of establishing Child Right clubs (CRCs) in schools. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga, Mr. Kuma said the existing clubs formed in beneficiary school are making tremendous impact on the promotion of the rights of children in the schools where the clubs operate. This, he explained, is evident in the improving relationship between teachers and pupils in schools where CRCs are active and also the difference in academic performance of pupils belonging to CRCs and those who do not belong to the clubs. Mr. Kumah, noted that the clubs form as a platform for developing future leaders as their activities involves debates, quizzes, cultural display as well as essay writing competitions among other educational activities. The formation of the clubs coupled with their activities feed into developing their skills and potentials to take up leadership positions in the future since they serve as agents of change in their communities. He mentioned the Kassena-Nankana East District as one of the major areas that is benefiting tremendously from the creation of the CRCs especially towards the spirit child phenomenon and called on other districts of the Upper East Region to take a cue from that outstanding achievement. In the area of HIV and AIDS awareness, Mr. Kumah said much had been achieved in educating the public on the need to take precautionary measures in curbing the menace, which he indicated has become a worldwide health challenge. He disclosed that the formation of CRCs have been a supporting factor in the operations of Afrikids over the years since they have been able to ensure more enrolment in schools where the activities of CRCs are vigorous, notably the Talensi-Nabdam district where more children have been redrawn from taking part in small scale mining activities in the area to attend school. Mr. Kuma further expressed Afrikids continuous support in fostering unity among school children as they believe in a common goal and work towards its realization. He, however charged all and sundry to commit themselves to the activities of the CRCs and support them in whatever way possible to ensure their sustainability.
GBC END IA/
The Country Director of Afrikids, a non -governmental organization working in the area of child rights and protection, Nicholas Kumah, has stressed the importance of establishing Child Right clubs (CRCs) in schools. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga, Mr. Kuma said the existing clubs formed in beneficiary school are making tremendous impact on the promotion of the rights of children in the schools where the clubs operate. This, he explained, is evident in the improving relationship between teachers and pupils in schools where CRCs are active and also the difference in academic performance of pupils belonging to CRCs and those who do not belong to the clubs. Mr. Kumah, noted that the clubs form as a platform for developing future leaders as their activities involves debates, quizzes, cultural display as well as essay writing competitions among other educational activities. The formation of the clubs coupled with their activities feed into developing their skills and potentials to take up leadership positions in the future since they serve as agents of change in their communities. He mentioned the Kassena-Nankana East District as one of the major areas that is benefiting tremendously from the creation of the CRCs especially towards the spirit child phenomenon and called on other districts of the Upper East Region to take a cue from that outstanding achievement. In the area of HIV and AIDS awareness, Mr. Kumah said much had been achieved in educating the public on the need to take precautionary measures in curbing the menace, which he indicated has become a worldwide health challenge. He disclosed that the formation of CRCs have been a supporting factor in the operations of Afrikids over the years since they have been able to ensure more enrolment in schools where the activities of CRCs are vigorous, notably the Talensi-Nabdam district where more children have been redrawn from taking part in small scale mining activities in the area to attend school. Mr. Kuma further expressed Afrikids continuous support in fostering unity among school children as they believe in a common goal and work towards its realization. He, however charged all and sundry to commit themselves to the activities of the CRCs and support them in whatever way possible to ensure their sustainability.
GBC END IA/
Call for attitudinal change towards the physically challenged
14-05-2011
A Physically challenged person resident in Bawku, Christopher Ali, has advocated for attitudinal change towards the physically challenged in society. He said the present way of catering for the category of people particularly the mentally challenged raises a lot of concern since they are always look down upon, thereby putting them under public ridicule. He was however not happy about the way people with disability are treated explaining that their neglect by society affects their livelihood and comes with dire consequences. Mr. Ali expressed these sentiments in an interview with Radio Ghana at Mirigu in the Kassena-Nankana East District of the Upper East Region. According to him, terminologies use on persons with disability tend to put them under public ridicule, stressing that most persons living with disabilities do not like the term "handicap" because of a belief that it originally meant someone who could not work and went begging with their cap in hand. Moreover, the term "disabled persons" might be misinterpreted to imply that the ability of the individual to function as a person has been disabled. He described such words as unacceptable since persons with disabilities are capable of exhibiting their God given talents if they are accorded the available opportunities given to persons without any form of impairment. Mr. Ali disclosed that Persons with disabilities suffer from discrimination based on society's prejudice and ignorance. The situation, he lamented, makes them poor and vulnerable in society. In addition, they often do not enjoy the same opportunities as other people because of the lack of access to essential services such as health care. He said even though the International human rights law stipulates that every person has the right of equality before law, the right to non discrimination, the right to equal opportunity, and the right to independent living among others, their plight are continuously ignored and abused in society. He therefore stressed the need for a multi faceted approach towards taking care of persons with disabilities in the country. Mr. Ali later used the opportunity to appeal to the various municipal and district assemblies to make available the 2 percent disability fund allocated to persons with disabilities to help ensure their total survival. He also urged them to extend the gesture for the upkeep of the mentally challenged to improve their condition. The public were also challenged to give attention and support to persons with disabilities to make them feel part of the society.
GBC END IA/
A Physically challenged person resident in Bawku, Christopher Ali, has advocated for attitudinal change towards the physically challenged in society. He said the present way of catering for the category of people particularly the mentally challenged raises a lot of concern since they are always look down upon, thereby putting them under public ridicule. He was however not happy about the way people with disability are treated explaining that their neglect by society affects their livelihood and comes with dire consequences. Mr. Ali expressed these sentiments in an interview with Radio Ghana at Mirigu in the Kassena-Nankana East District of the Upper East Region. According to him, terminologies use on persons with disability tend to put them under public ridicule, stressing that most persons living with disabilities do not like the term "handicap" because of a belief that it originally meant someone who could not work and went begging with their cap in hand. Moreover, the term "disabled persons" might be misinterpreted to imply that the ability of the individual to function as a person has been disabled. He described such words as unacceptable since persons with disabilities are capable of exhibiting their God given talents if they are accorded the available opportunities given to persons without any form of impairment. Mr. Ali disclosed that Persons with disabilities suffer from discrimination based on society's prejudice and ignorance. The situation, he lamented, makes them poor and vulnerable in society. In addition, they often do not enjoy the same opportunities as other people because of the lack of access to essential services such as health care. He said even though the International human rights law stipulates that every person has the right of equality before law, the right to non discrimination, the right to equal opportunity, and the right to independent living among others, their plight are continuously ignored and abused in society. He therefore stressed the need for a multi faceted approach towards taking care of persons with disabilities in the country. Mr. Ali later used the opportunity to appeal to the various municipal and district assemblies to make available the 2 percent disability fund allocated to persons with disabilities to help ensure their total survival. He also urged them to extend the gesture for the upkeep of the mentally challenged to improve their condition. The public were also challenged to give attention and support to persons with disabilities to make them feel part of the society.
GBC END IA/
Traditional Authorities encouraged to help promote ‘social inclusion’ in society
12-05-2011
Narration: Traditional authorities resident in the three regions of the north have been challenged to join hands in shaping the negative public perception of children born with various forms of disabilities. This will help promote a socially inclusive society, where all people particularly, persons with disability will feel valued and respected with their basic needs met, so that they can live in dignity. The Upper East Programme’s Coordinator for the Prevention of Childhood Disability, Marjolein Meande Baltussen, made the appeal at a Community sensitization programme held for the chiefs and people of Mirigu, a farming community in the Kassena-Nankana East District of the Upper East Region. Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN AT
END CUE AT
ANCR V/O
Report
The community durbar which focused on the prevention of childhood disability brought together dignitaries from Niger as well as a team from the Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon. It was jointly organized by the Presbyterian Community Based Rehabilitation Programme (CBR) and Afrikids Ghana, a non governmental organization, working in the promotion and rights of children in deprived communities of the country. Madam Baltussen in a brief presentation laid particular emphasis on the need to prevent childhood disabilities since 75 percent cases of childhood disabilities could be avoided through proper medication and early detection. She also advocated for the need to give care and attention to children with disabilities and not consider them as ‘spirit children’. Such children she noted can be nurtured to become who they are rather than subjecting them to all kinds of maltreatment. Mrs. Baltussen, however, called for total collaboration in eradicating childhood disability in the communities stressing that, men has a major role in achieving the set objective particularly in the area of early detection. She made a passionate appeal to the people, most especially, pregnant women to take much of the local foods during pregnancy since it can help ensure safe delivery. The Country Director of Afrikids, Mr. Nicholas Kumah on his part charged the people to respect the rights of children in society. He was particularly concerned about the way children’s rights are abused with impunity and called for an end to such social injustices. Touching on the importance of Child Rights Clubs (CRCs)in schools, Mr. Kuma said the establishment of the clubs has been a supporting factor over the years, thereby contributing immensely towards HIV and AIDS awareness creation as well as the fight against the ‘spirit child’ phenomenon. According to him, the establishments of the clubs have impacted positively in schools as it has contributed in improving relationship between teachers and pupils, thereby enhancing the academic performance of pupils belonging to the clubs. Mr. Kuma therefore appealed to all to commit themselves to the activities of the CRCs and support them in whatever way possible to run their activities. A CBR Programmes Coordinator from Sandema, Maxwell Akandem advocated for the need to treat persons with disability with respect and dignity and not subject them to abuses and public ridicule, since negative attitudes towards such persons rather worsened their plight, thus making them feel excluded from the society. Mr. Christopher Ali, who shared with participants his life time experience as a physically challenged person, seized the opportunity to educate the people on the need to treat physically challenged persons with respect and dignity since disability is not a barrier to progress. He later demonstrated his academic skills to the admiration of the participants to prove that disability is not inability. Mr. Ali further charged the people to give care and attention to children with disability to make them feel part of the society and moreover, help unearth their inherent talents and abilities.
END
Narration: Traditional authorities resident in the three regions of the north have been challenged to join hands in shaping the negative public perception of children born with various forms of disabilities. This will help promote a socially inclusive society, where all people particularly, persons with disability will feel valued and respected with their basic needs met, so that they can live in dignity. The Upper East Programme’s Coordinator for the Prevention of Childhood Disability, Marjolein Meande Baltussen, made the appeal at a Community sensitization programme held for the chiefs and people of Mirigu, a farming community in the Kassena-Nankana East District of the Upper East Region. Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN AT
END CUE AT
ANCR V/O
Report
The community durbar which focused on the prevention of childhood disability brought together dignitaries from Niger as well as a team from the Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon. It was jointly organized by the Presbyterian Community Based Rehabilitation Programme (CBR) and Afrikids Ghana, a non governmental organization, working in the promotion and rights of children in deprived communities of the country. Madam Baltussen in a brief presentation laid particular emphasis on the need to prevent childhood disabilities since 75 percent cases of childhood disabilities could be avoided through proper medication and early detection. She also advocated for the need to give care and attention to children with disabilities and not consider them as ‘spirit children’. Such children she noted can be nurtured to become who they are rather than subjecting them to all kinds of maltreatment. Mrs. Baltussen, however, called for total collaboration in eradicating childhood disability in the communities stressing that, men has a major role in achieving the set objective particularly in the area of early detection. She made a passionate appeal to the people, most especially, pregnant women to take much of the local foods during pregnancy since it can help ensure safe delivery. The Country Director of Afrikids, Mr. Nicholas Kumah on his part charged the people to respect the rights of children in society. He was particularly concerned about the way children’s rights are abused with impunity and called for an end to such social injustices. Touching on the importance of Child Rights Clubs (CRCs)in schools, Mr. Kuma said the establishment of the clubs has been a supporting factor over the years, thereby contributing immensely towards HIV and AIDS awareness creation as well as the fight against the ‘spirit child’ phenomenon. According to him, the establishments of the clubs have impacted positively in schools as it has contributed in improving relationship between teachers and pupils, thereby enhancing the academic performance of pupils belonging to the clubs. Mr. Kuma therefore appealed to all to commit themselves to the activities of the CRCs and support them in whatever way possible to run their activities. A CBR Programmes Coordinator from Sandema, Maxwell Akandem advocated for the need to treat persons with disability with respect and dignity and not subject them to abuses and public ridicule, since negative attitudes towards such persons rather worsened their plight, thus making them feel excluded from the society. Mr. Christopher Ali, who shared with participants his life time experience as a physically challenged person, seized the opportunity to educate the people on the need to treat physically challenged persons with respect and dignity since disability is not a barrier to progress. He later demonstrated his academic skills to the admiration of the participants to prove that disability is not inability. Mr. Ali further charged the people to give care and attention to children with disability to make them feel part of the society and moreover, help unearth their inherent talents and abilities.
END
Sunday, 15 May 2011
Lateness and absenteeism identified as barriers to quality education delivery in Upper East
13-05-2011
Narration: Loss of contract hours through lateness and absenteeism had been identified as some of the challenges affecting quality education delivery in the Upper East Region, particularly the Talensi-Nabdam District. Moreover, factors including poor supervision on the part of circuit supervisors and poor lesson planning and delivery as well as poor teaching methodologies are also being blamed for the poor academic performance among pupils in the region. This unfortunate development came to light at the 2010 Education Conference held at Tongo for stakeholders in the educational sector of the region. The Talensi-Nabdam District Director of Education, Francis Ayaba, who made the disclosure in a presentation of school performance review data, made relevant recommendations aimed at addressing the challenges. This year’s conference centered on the theme: Improving participation in Education Delivery and Accountability: tasks of stakeholders. Isaac Asare has more for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
The 2010 Education Conference which is being held under a Programme dubbed:”Tackling Education Needs inclusively” (TENI), has Link Community Development, Ghana (LCD), an International NGO and the Talensi-Nabdam District Directorate of Education as the main collaborators with the Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) and Comic Relief representing as the key sponsors supporting the conference. The occasion which brought together relevant stakeholders in the education sector including chiefs and opinion leaders was geared at providing a platform for the sharing and learning of best practices among stakeholders to improve upon the quality of education in the region. It was also organized to create a platform for the district, schools, communities and stakeholders to brainstorm openly on matters affecting the performance of schools and to discuss on the way forward in addressing the problems. The Talensi-Nabdam District Director of Education, Mr Ayaba, bemoaned the increasing low level of academic performance in the area and blamed teachers, parents and supervisors for contributing to the challenge. Available statistics he revealed indicates that schools in the district since 2006 have performed poorly in the BECE particularly in the area of English and Mathematics. He said in the 2010 BECE exams, only 4 students out of the total number of candidates in the district, obtained aggregate 6-12 as against 11 recorded in 2006. According to him performance of student has declined tremendously thereby putting intense pressure on the directorate to address the menace. Mr. Ayaba however called on stakeholders to assist his outfit in that regard. The Deputy Regional Minister, Mrs. Lucy Awuni who represented as the special guest of honour for the occasion commended the implementers of the programme for their effort in complementing government’s vision of ensuring quality for all. Government, she indicated is on course in addressing most of the county’s educational challenges, hence the provision of school infrastructure and the distribution of free school uniforms and textbooks to most deprived schools across the country. The extension of government’s school feeding programme coupled with the increased capitation grant, she added are all necessary interventions aimed at ensuring quality education and high school enrolment, particularly the girl child. Government, she further stated is seriously embarking on transforming all “schools under trees” into bricks and mortar classroom blocks to provide congenial learning environment for effective teaching and learning. Mrs. Awuni said government recognizes the invaluable role played private sector in education and would therefore continue to encourage public private partnership in education delivery as it would undoubtedly ensure that all stakeholders are brought on board to guaranteeing the future of the children in the country. The country Director of LCD, Dr. Kennedy Quagrain and the Deputy Director of the GES, Mr. Charles Tsegah, during their presentations, charged parents and relevant stakeholders in the educational sector to contribute their quota in raising the standard of education in the district since it is the panacea for development.
Narration: Loss of contract hours through lateness and absenteeism had been identified as some of the challenges affecting quality education delivery in the Upper East Region, particularly the Talensi-Nabdam District. Moreover, factors including poor supervision on the part of circuit supervisors and poor lesson planning and delivery as well as poor teaching methodologies are also being blamed for the poor academic performance among pupils in the region. This unfortunate development came to light at the 2010 Education Conference held at Tongo for stakeholders in the educational sector of the region. The Talensi-Nabdam District Director of Education, Francis Ayaba, who made the disclosure in a presentation of school performance review data, made relevant recommendations aimed at addressing the challenges. This year’s conference centered on the theme: Improving participation in Education Delivery and Accountability: tasks of stakeholders. Isaac Asare has more for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
The 2010 Education Conference which is being held under a Programme dubbed:”Tackling Education Needs inclusively” (TENI), has Link Community Development, Ghana (LCD), an International NGO and the Talensi-Nabdam District Directorate of Education as the main collaborators with the Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) and Comic Relief representing as the key sponsors supporting the conference. The occasion which brought together relevant stakeholders in the education sector including chiefs and opinion leaders was geared at providing a platform for the sharing and learning of best practices among stakeholders to improve upon the quality of education in the region. It was also organized to create a platform for the district, schools, communities and stakeholders to brainstorm openly on matters affecting the performance of schools and to discuss on the way forward in addressing the problems. The Talensi-Nabdam District Director of Education, Mr Ayaba, bemoaned the increasing low level of academic performance in the area and blamed teachers, parents and supervisors for contributing to the challenge. Available statistics he revealed indicates that schools in the district since 2006 have performed poorly in the BECE particularly in the area of English and Mathematics. He said in the 2010 BECE exams, only 4 students out of the total number of candidates in the district, obtained aggregate 6-12 as against 11 recorded in 2006. According to him performance of student has declined tremendously thereby putting intense pressure on the directorate to address the menace. Mr. Ayaba however called on stakeholders to assist his outfit in that regard. The Deputy Regional Minister, Mrs. Lucy Awuni who represented as the special guest of honour for the occasion commended the implementers of the programme for their effort in complementing government’s vision of ensuring quality for all. Government, she indicated is on course in addressing most of the county’s educational challenges, hence the provision of school infrastructure and the distribution of free school uniforms and textbooks to most deprived schools across the country. The extension of government’s school feeding programme coupled with the increased capitation grant, she added are all necessary interventions aimed at ensuring quality education and high school enrolment, particularly the girl child. Government, she further stated is seriously embarking on transforming all “schools under trees” into bricks and mortar classroom blocks to provide congenial learning environment for effective teaching and learning. Mrs. Awuni said government recognizes the invaluable role played private sector in education and would therefore continue to encourage public private partnership in education delivery as it would undoubtedly ensure that all stakeholders are brought on board to guaranteeing the future of the children in the country. The country Director of LCD, Dr. Kennedy Quagrain and the Deputy Director of the GES, Mr. Charles Tsegah, during their presentations, charged parents and relevant stakeholders in the educational sector to contribute their quota in raising the standard of education in the district since it is the panacea for development.
Rural Banks encouraged to adapt to sound financial management
The Bolgatanga Branch Manager of ARB Apex Bank, Reuben Adamtey has charged the various Rural Banks to put in place prudent financial management and decisions in their day-to-day operations in order to stay in business. According to him, the banking environment is becoming more and more competitive, hence the need for rural banks to come up with innovative products, render quality service to their prospective customers and moreover, put in place measures to ensure that unscrupulous people do not defraud the bank ,especially in the handling of current codeline cheque clearing. Internal control mechanisms, he indicated should also be strengthened to help sustain the banks. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Bawku, Mr. Adamtey said though the establishment of rural banks has contributed in shaping the lives of the citizenry, particularly the rural poor, the sector is still faced with numerous challenges including poor financial intermediation, weak management and staff capacity as well as low capitalization among others . This unfortunate trend, he noted, contributed to lack of public confidence in rural banks, thus compelling the Bank of Ghana to close as many as 23 distressed rural banks across the country. The closure of the banks he disclosed led to the creation of the ARB Apex Bank, which then became the mini central bank for the rural banks. Mr. Adamtey was of the view that the establishment of the ARB Apex Bank has done so much for the survival of rural banks in areas of products development, training cheque clearing, specie supply and performance monitoring. ARB Apex Bank, Mr. Adamtey added offers key services to rural banks and has created a unique opportunities for individuals, particularly rural banks to access loans to extend and improve upon their activities. He therefore called on the rural banks not to hesitate to call on ARB Apex Bank offices in times of difficulties and clarifications since their door is always opened to their valued stakeholders. Touching on loan default, Mr. Adamtey reminded defaulters to ensure prompt payment of loans to enable the bank grant loan to other prospective borrowers. He also entreated the banks to ensure that loans are well appraised, monitored and evaluated to avoid the high rates of defaults. Beneficiary communities, he emphasized should also reciprocate the kind gesture of the rural banks by continuously conducting business with them for the purpose of sustainability.
GBC END IA/
GBC END IA/
Sunday, 8 May 2011
Financial Institutions urged to lower their interest rates
09-05-2011
Narration: Financial institutions across the country have been encouraged to as a matter of expediency lower their interest rates for lending to promote business activities so as to create jobs for the unemployed. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who made the appeal at the 18th Annual General Meeting of the Bawku East Small Scale Farmers Association (BESSFA) rural bank, said considering the significant reduction in the rate of inflation countrywide, conscious efforts must also be made to attract more peasant farmers gain access to loan facilities to expand their activities. The occasion which brought together chiefs and relevant stakeholders in the banking industry of the region, was marked with the official inauguration of the Bawku branch of BESSFA rural bank Limited at Bawku in the Upper East Region. Correspondent Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
Provided with a licensed to operate the business of Banking by the Bank of Ghana (BOG) under Act 339 of 1970, BESSFA Rural Bank came into being with an initial capital 37.50 Ghana Cedis made up of 12.50 Ghana Cedis BOG preference shares and 25 .00 Ghana Cedis ordinary shares. This law was aimed at creating banks to serve populations which would otherwise be cut from financial services. In accordance with the banking law, BESSFA was afforded the opportunity to operate within a radius of 20 miles and can now boast of 1,708 relevant shareholders and 527,015 total shareholder’s funds including stated capital of 150,286 Ghana Cedis as stipulated in the 2008 financial reports. Saddled with numerous financial and managerial difficulties, most rural banks including BESSFA lost their credibility, thereby compelling the BOG to close as many as 23 distressed Rural Banks. This was due to lack of public confidence in Rural Banks. In addressing the weaknesses, the ARB Apex Bank owned by the rural banks was therefore instituted with the aim to strengthen the capacities of the rural banks individually and as a sub-sector in the financial services industry. ARB began its banking business in July, 2002 after being granted a banking license in 2001. At the official commissioning of the Bawku Agency of BESSFA Rural Bank Limited, the Chairman Board of Directors of BESSFA, Mr. Solomon Atiiga said the bank since its establishment had lived up to its social corporate responsibilities by supporting various community projects and initiatives among other social functions, notably the best farmers award scheme. He said despite the level of achievements, the performance of the bank has dwindled and had been greatly affected by the Bawku conflict that created general insecurity as most business activities were almost grounded to a halt. The intense situation that led to the ban on motor bike riding in 2010 also had a rippling effect on the monitoring aspect of the bank in their effort to retrieving loans from their defaulters. Growth in deposit on the other hand recorded some gains with the Bawku Agency achieving little above expectation. The Banks total level of deposit in 2010 was highly appreciable as it recorded a 16.7 percent increase of 4,783,592 as against 2009 figure of 3,801,879. Mr. Atiiga disclosed that any gains within the communities they operate particularly Garu will be surely retained and appealed to all to open account at the bank to enable them share the benefits. Mr. Atiiga bemoaned the huge financial debt owed by loan defaulters and appealed to all beneficiaries of loans and overdraft to do their possible best by paying all their outstanding loans and overdrafts to ensure the sustainability of the bank. Mr. Attiga also threatened legal action against defaulters who fail to honour their loan obligations. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who facilitated the commissioning of the new project, appealed to financial institutions to as a matter of expediency lower their interest rates for lending to promote business activities so as to create jobs for the unemployed youth considering the significant reduction in the base rate of inflation in the country. He also encouraged small holder farmers and business entities to take advantage of the bank to expand their businesses. Mr. Woyongo accompanied by the General Manager of BESSFA, Solomon Awini, and other board of directors later cut sod to officially inaugurate the new edifice estimated at the cost of 413,709 Ghana Cedis .
END
Narration: Financial institutions across the country have been encouraged to as a matter of expediency lower their interest rates for lending to promote business activities so as to create jobs for the unemployed. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who made the appeal at the 18th Annual General Meeting of the Bawku East Small Scale Farmers Association (BESSFA) rural bank, said considering the significant reduction in the rate of inflation countrywide, conscious efforts must also be made to attract more peasant farmers gain access to loan facilities to expand their activities. The occasion which brought together chiefs and relevant stakeholders in the banking industry of the region, was marked with the official inauguration of the Bawku branch of BESSFA rural bank Limited at Bawku in the Upper East Region. Correspondent Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
Report
Provided with a licensed to operate the business of Banking by the Bank of Ghana (BOG) under Act 339 of 1970, BESSFA Rural Bank came into being with an initial capital 37.50 Ghana Cedis made up of 12.50 Ghana Cedis BOG preference shares and 25 .00 Ghana Cedis ordinary shares. This law was aimed at creating banks to serve populations which would otherwise be cut from financial services. In accordance with the banking law, BESSFA was afforded the opportunity to operate within a radius of 20 miles and can now boast of 1,708 relevant shareholders and 527,015 total shareholder’s funds including stated capital of 150,286 Ghana Cedis as stipulated in the 2008 financial reports. Saddled with numerous financial and managerial difficulties, most rural banks including BESSFA lost their credibility, thereby compelling the BOG to close as many as 23 distressed Rural Banks. This was due to lack of public confidence in Rural Banks. In addressing the weaknesses, the ARB Apex Bank owned by the rural banks was therefore instituted with the aim to strengthen the capacities of the rural banks individually and as a sub-sector in the financial services industry. ARB began its banking business in July, 2002 after being granted a banking license in 2001. At the official commissioning of the Bawku Agency of BESSFA Rural Bank Limited, the Chairman Board of Directors of BESSFA, Mr. Solomon Atiiga said the bank since its establishment had lived up to its social corporate responsibilities by supporting various community projects and initiatives among other social functions, notably the best farmers award scheme. He said despite the level of achievements, the performance of the bank has dwindled and had been greatly affected by the Bawku conflict that created general insecurity as most business activities were almost grounded to a halt. The intense situation that led to the ban on motor bike riding in 2010 also had a rippling effect on the monitoring aspect of the bank in their effort to retrieving loans from their defaulters. Growth in deposit on the other hand recorded some gains with the Bawku Agency achieving little above expectation. The Banks total level of deposit in 2010 was highly appreciable as it recorded a 16.7 percent increase of 4,783,592 as against 2009 figure of 3,801,879. Mr. Atiiga disclosed that any gains within the communities they operate particularly Garu will be surely retained and appealed to all to open account at the bank to enable them share the benefits. Mr. Atiiga bemoaned the huge financial debt owed by loan defaulters and appealed to all beneficiaries of loans and overdraft to do their possible best by paying all their outstanding loans and overdrafts to ensure the sustainability of the bank. Mr. Attiga also threatened legal action against defaulters who fail to honour their loan obligations. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who facilitated the commissioning of the new project, appealed to financial institutions to as a matter of expediency lower their interest rates for lending to promote business activities so as to create jobs for the unemployed youth considering the significant reduction in the base rate of inflation in the country. He also encouraged small holder farmers and business entities to take advantage of the bank to expand their businesses. Mr. Woyongo accompanied by the General Manager of BESSFA, Solomon Awini, and other board of directors later cut sod to officially inaugurate the new edifice estimated at the cost of 413,709 Ghana Cedis .
END
Friday, 6 May 2011
Methodist Bishop advises congregation on the relevance of teamwork
06-04-2011
Narration: Christians across the country have been encouraged to let their lifestyle and attitude in life, ministry and service teach the world a new meaning of team work, team-spirit and commitment in whatever God graciously put them in charge. This will help them overcome all unforeseen challenges and also win all contests with honours. The Methodist Bishop of Northern Ghana Diocese, Rt. Rev Emmanuel MacLord Afriyie, made the call at the occasion of the official opening of the 50th annual synod of the northern Ghana Diocese held at the Bolgatanga Ebenezer Methodist Chapel on the theme: “Connexionality : working together as a team-the place of commitment’. Correspondent Isaac Asare attended the ceremony and has filed this report for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
The 50th annual synod dubbed “the Golden Jubilee synod’ of the Northern Ghana Diocese of the Methodist Church of Ghana brought together members from the various religious denominations including heads of churches and Islamic leaders among other functionaries. The historical occassion with focus on team-spirit and team work happens to be the third of the series of synods held within the Northern sector. Addressing the congregation, The Methodist Bishop of Northern Ghana Diocese, Rt. Rev Emmanuel MacLord Afriyie, laid much emphasis on the need for Christians as Christ followers to work together as a team towards achieving a common vision and goals. According to him the essence of team work and team spirit which he defines as the feeling of pride and loyalty or commitment that exists among members of a team to succeed should be exemplified in all fields of endeavours. This, he noted, must be marked by a feeling of unity and oneness ahead of all personal or sectional interests and glory. Rt. Rev Afriyie declared territorialism and individualism as two unhealthy tendencies that must not be entertained in the churches since they breed selfishness and also have the tendency of creating serious rivalry and divisions in the church as experienced in the first century church of Corinth. He therefore entreated the congregation to consider the connexionality of the Methodist church by exhibiting decent lifestyles worthy of emulation. He moreover cautioned Christians to discourage and eschew the spirit of territorialism, individualism and above all partisanship, but rather appreciate how the pooling and sharing of all talents skills, and other resources could strengthen connexionality for better and greater achievements. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo in a speech read on his behalf, acknowledged the significant contribution of churches as well as their complimentary role in the nation’s developmental agenda and urged the churches on to continue with such inevitable roles in their common strive to push the developmental agenda of the nation on a high pedestal. He commended the Methodist church for spearheading various developmental projects in some parts of the region and encourage them to continue to assist the effort of government in that regard. Mr. Woyongo seized the opportunity to caution the general public on indiscriminate littering of the environment with polythene bags since it remains a major challenge bedeviling the region and the country in general. He also encouraged religious bodies to pray for peace to prevail in conflict prone areas within the sub-region especially neigbouring Cote d’Ivoire.
--END--
Narration: Christians across the country have been encouraged to let their lifestyle and attitude in life, ministry and service teach the world a new meaning of team work, team-spirit and commitment in whatever God graciously put them in charge. This will help them overcome all unforeseen challenges and also win all contests with honours. The Methodist Bishop of Northern Ghana Diocese, Rt. Rev Emmanuel MacLord Afriyie, made the call at the occasion of the official opening of the 50th annual synod of the northern Ghana Diocese held at the Bolgatanga Ebenezer Methodist Chapel on the theme: “Connexionality : working together as a team-the place of commitment’. Correspondent Isaac Asare attended the ceremony and has filed this report for Radio Ghana.
CUE IN
END CUE
ANCR V/O
The 50th annual synod dubbed “the Golden Jubilee synod’ of the Northern Ghana Diocese of the Methodist Church of Ghana brought together members from the various religious denominations including heads of churches and Islamic leaders among other functionaries. The historical occassion with focus on team-spirit and team work happens to be the third of the series of synods held within the Northern sector. Addressing the congregation, The Methodist Bishop of Northern Ghana Diocese, Rt. Rev Emmanuel MacLord Afriyie, laid much emphasis on the need for Christians as Christ followers to work together as a team towards achieving a common vision and goals. According to him the essence of team work and team spirit which he defines as the feeling of pride and loyalty or commitment that exists among members of a team to succeed should be exemplified in all fields of endeavours. This, he noted, must be marked by a feeling of unity and oneness ahead of all personal or sectional interests and glory. Rt. Rev Afriyie declared territorialism and individualism as two unhealthy tendencies that must not be entertained in the churches since they breed selfishness and also have the tendency of creating serious rivalry and divisions in the church as experienced in the first century church of Corinth. He therefore entreated the congregation to consider the connexionality of the Methodist church by exhibiting decent lifestyles worthy of emulation. He moreover cautioned Christians to discourage and eschew the spirit of territorialism, individualism and above all partisanship, but rather appreciate how the pooling and sharing of all talents skills, and other resources could strengthen connexionality for better and greater achievements. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo in a speech read on his behalf, acknowledged the significant contribution of churches as well as their complimentary role in the nation’s developmental agenda and urged the churches on to continue with such inevitable roles in their common strive to push the developmental agenda of the nation on a high pedestal. He commended the Methodist church for spearheading various developmental projects in some parts of the region and encourage them to continue to assist the effort of government in that regard. Mr. Woyongo seized the opportunity to caution the general public on indiscriminate littering of the environment with polythene bags since it remains a major challenge bedeviling the region and the country in general. He also encouraged religious bodies to pray for peace to prevail in conflict prone areas within the sub-region especially neigbouring Cote d’Ivoire.
--END--
Thursday, 5 May 2011
ISODEC donates to the poor and needy students
The Integrated Social Development Centre (ISODEC), through the Ambassador Girls Scholarship Programme (AGSP) has donated food and learning aids to 400 poor and needy students in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region. The school items valued at the cost of 110,000 Ghana Cedis include school uniforms, foot wares, English, Mathematics and Science text books, exercise books, pens, pencils, mathematical sets and maxi bag of maize among others. At a ceremony held at Bongo, a policy analyst and the Regional Manager of ISODEC, Jonathan Adabere Atia disclosed to Radio Ghana that the presentation of the items forms part of measures aimed at improving the quality of education in deprived communities of the region and the country as a whole. The Ambassador Girls Scholarship Programme he noted seeks to improve retention and transition of girls who for the reason of poverty and lack of support have drop out of school to help in farming among other household activities. The programme further seeks to address the financial and material barriers to girl’s education. Mr. Adabere Atia noted the programme since its inception 7 years ago, now provides educational assistance to both boys and girls, and explained that his outfit realizing the educational difficulties some boys goes through, thought it imperative to provide them with such an equal opportunity to keep them in school. He mentioned lack of information and confidence as some of the major challenges affecting students in the region. This, he emphasized, contributes to student’s failure to complete their education particularly the girls. On the way forward, Mr. Adabere Atia disclosed that scholars are given mentoring by some selected trained teachers to educate them on the need to take their studies seriously no matter the circumstance. Parents on the other hand are sensitized on the urgent need to provide their wards with the necessary educational materials to enhance academic performance and also avoid school drop out. He expressed the programme’s determination to extend the gesture to other deprived areas of the region and beyond. He said the programme has so far assisted poor and needy students in the Garu-Tempane and Bawku Municipality of the region. Steps, he added, are being taken to storm the West Mamprusi area of Northern Region to provide poor and needy students with such educational materials. He therefore mentioned resource constraint as a major challenge saddling the programme and expressed the hope that stakeholders in the educational sector will assist in that regard. The Bongo District Chief Executive, Akugre Tia urged parents to make the education of their wards their major priority since it is the panacea for accelerated development and the greatest asset they can bequeath their wards. Some of the beneficiaries, Atum Jennifer and Akola Gilbert later in an interview, expressed their profound gratitude to ISODEC an the sponsors of the AGSP for bringing smiles on their faces at a time when they lost all hope was lost with regards to their education. They however prayed for continues assistance since their parents are handicapped in terms of finances.
GBC END IA/
GBC END IA/
Sunday, 1 May 2011
Give Health a priority concern
A legal practitioner and an aspiring candidate of the People’s National Convention (PNC) for the Bolgatanga Constituency, Rockson Akugre has challenged the media not to concentrate on political reportage but rather make conscious effort in educating the public on issues of national interest particularly in the area of health and education. speaking to Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga, Mr. Akugre noted that malaria still remains the leading cause of illness and the primary cause of morbidity and mortality, accounting for over three million outpatient visits to public facilities annually. this unfortunate development he lamented s was made known when Ghana joined the rest of the world to mark world malaria day to which he added that the Bolgatanga Constituency was not isolated from the statistics. He therefore suggested that the local government authorities should not only make available but also enforce the use of insecticide treated mosquito nets to strengthen the preventive aspect whilst curative measures should be put in place as a complement. The aspiring candidate of the People’s National Convention for the Bolgatanga Constituency suggested that efforts at achieving the Millennium Development Goals would suffer stultification if measures aimed at eradicating some diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS are not given the necessary attention. Mr. Rockson Akugre therefore advised that in the area of HIV/AIDS, the campaign by health professional on the health challenges of the pandemic should be intensified and efforts directed at behavioral change of the human race should be incouraged. He added that the value for life should also be encouraged by religious organizations.
GBC END /IA
GBC END /IA
Regional May Day Parade at Bolgatanga Ends in Grand Style
01-05-2011
At Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region, the occasion of this years’ May Day Parade was celebrated with pump and pageantry as various public sector workers joyously marched in a procession through the principal street of the municipality. Workers after the route march later converged at the foregrounds of the Regional Trades Union Congress office with some holding banners and placards with inscriptions that reads “ We need more jobs”, “No sweet talking, let the Single Spine materialize”, and “ help restore irregularities on Single Spine” among others.They were clad in their various colourful labour T shirts and caps. This year’s celebration on the theme: ‘Decent work for Sustainable Economic Development saw some deserving workers claiming awards of various kinds. Some took home table top fridges, 21 inch colour television sets and certificates whilst the overall best worker, Madam Agnes Sugro, a 45 year old store keeper at the Garu-Tempane District Assembly took home a brand new laptop and a certificate for her outstanding performance exhibited in the course of her duty. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo in an address declared government’s determination in ensuring better condition of workers particularly those in the public sector. He described the theme for this year’s celebration as timely since government has declared the year as an action one. Mr. Woyongo implored workers to work delinquently and honestly to merit whatever enumeration that comes with it and bemoaned poor attitude towards work, which he said, sometimes resort to embezzlement, and corruption thereby having negative impact on productivity and consequently poor remuneration to workers. He further challenged all Ghanaian workers to do retrospection on attitudes towards work and resolve to change such habits for the betterment of the economy. Mr. Woyongo however entreated workers to exercise restraint on the irregularities associated with the Single Spine pay policy since all steps are being taken to address the abnormalities. He pleaded with the leadership of organized labour to always exhaust all the possible avenues in redressing their grievances rather than taking to the streets at the least resort. He also seized the opportunity to educate the public on the need to adapt to better sanitary practices, particularly the indiscriminate littering of the environment. The Regional Secretary of the Ghana Trades Union Congress, Mr Augustine Adongo Apambilla on his part charged government to do all it can to better workers salary since the outcome of mapping of public sector workers onto the SSSS clearly shows that the level of pay in the public sector is still nothing to write home about hence, the need to improve upon it. Mr. Apambilla urged workers to continue to contribute towards the fortunes of the economy through hard work and dedication. Various solidarity messages were read to herald the day’s celebration.
GBC END IA/
At Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region, the occasion of this years’ May Day Parade was celebrated with pump and pageantry as various public sector workers joyously marched in a procession through the principal street of the municipality. Workers after the route march later converged at the foregrounds of the Regional Trades Union Congress office with some holding banners and placards with inscriptions that reads “ We need more jobs”, “No sweet talking, let the Single Spine materialize”, and “ help restore irregularities on Single Spine” among others.They were clad in their various colourful labour T shirts and caps. This year’s celebration on the theme: ‘Decent work for Sustainable Economic Development saw some deserving workers claiming awards of various kinds. Some took home table top fridges, 21 inch colour television sets and certificates whilst the overall best worker, Madam Agnes Sugro, a 45 year old store keeper at the Garu-Tempane District Assembly took home a brand new laptop and a certificate for her outstanding performance exhibited in the course of her duty. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo in an address declared government’s determination in ensuring better condition of workers particularly those in the public sector. He described the theme for this year’s celebration as timely since government has declared the year as an action one. Mr. Woyongo implored workers to work delinquently and honestly to merit whatever enumeration that comes with it and bemoaned poor attitude towards work, which he said, sometimes resort to embezzlement, and corruption thereby having negative impact on productivity and consequently poor remuneration to workers. He further challenged all Ghanaian workers to do retrospection on attitudes towards work and resolve to change such habits for the betterment of the economy. Mr. Woyongo however entreated workers to exercise restraint on the irregularities associated with the Single Spine pay policy since all steps are being taken to address the abnormalities. He pleaded with the leadership of organized labour to always exhaust all the possible avenues in redressing their grievances rather than taking to the streets at the least resort. He also seized the opportunity to educate the public on the need to adapt to better sanitary practices, particularly the indiscriminate littering of the environment. The Regional Secretary of the Ghana Trades Union Congress, Mr Augustine Adongo Apambilla on his part charged government to do all it can to better workers salary since the outcome of mapping of public sector workers onto the SSSS clearly shows that the level of pay in the public sector is still nothing to write home about hence, the need to improve upon it. Mr. Apambilla urged workers to continue to contribute towards the fortunes of the economy through hard work and dedication. Various solidarity messages were read to herald the day’s celebration.
GBC END IA/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)