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Opinion: The case for urgently reviving Intercity STC Coaches

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For over a century, the State Transport Company has stood as a pillar of Ghana’s public transport system, a symbol of reliability, safety, and national connectivity. From its humble beginnings in 1909 as a colonial government transport department to its formal establishment on March 9, 1965, through Legislative Instrument 414, the State Transport Corporation (STC) has played a critical role in moving people, goods, and opportunities across the country. Its transformation into Intercity STC Coaches Limited in 2003 marked a renewed vision of modernity and efficiency.

Yet today, this once-proud institution is steadily deteriorating, struggling under the weight of neglect, outdated infrastructure, and dwindling operational capacity. Ironically, even in its weakened state, STC remains arguably the most organized and dependable intercity transport service in Ghana. This paradox underscores both its resilience and the urgent need for intervention.

Across the country, STC terminals tell a troubling story. Fleets are aging, many buses are either grounded or operating under suboptimal conditions, and passenger confidence is gradually eroding. Even more concerning is the state of the company’s workshops, facilities that were once the backbone of maintenance and operational excellence. These workshops, strategically located across major terminals, possess immense potential. However, years of underinvestment have left them in decline, with obsolete tools and machinery that can no longer meet modern transport demands.

This neglect is not merely an institutional failure; it is a national concern. Efficient public transportation is a critical driver of economic growth, social mobility, and regional integration. STC’s decline therefore reflects a broader systemic challenge within Ghana’s public sector infrastructure management.

Despite these challenges, STC continues to stand out. Compared to many private transport operators, it maintains relatively higher safety standards, structured ticketing systems, and a level of professionalism that remains unmatched. This is precisely why its survival, and revival, must be treated as a national priority.

The path forward is clear. The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Transport, must take immediate and decisive action to refurbish and modernize STC. This includes retooling its workshops with state-of-the-art diagnostic and repair equipment, procuring new fleets of fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly buses, and investing in digital systems for ticketing and fleet management.

Equally important is comprehensive institutional reform to strengthen management efficiency, enhance accountability, and foster innovation. Public-private partnerships should also be explored to inject capital, technical expertise, and operational best practices into the company.

This is a direct appeal to the Honourable Minister for Transport and His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana: the time to act is now. Allowing STC to collapse would not only erase a significant part of Ghana’s transport history but also deepen the challenges faced by ordinary citizens who rely on affordable and safe intercity travel.

Reviving STC is not just about restoring buses and workshops, it is about restoring confidence in public institutions, preserving a national legacy, and ensuring that future generations inherit a transport system that works.

The tools for transformation already exist within STC. Its nationwide presence, experienced workforce, and established infrastructure provide a strong foundation. What is needed is political will, strategic investment, and a renewed commitment to excellence.

Ghana cannot afford to watch one of its most iconic state enterprises decline. The rescue of Intercity STC Coaches Limited must begin now.

Source: Honourable Elias Ayinbila Apasiya, Assembly Member for Sumbrungu Azorebisi Electoral Area – Bolgatanga Municipality, Upper East Region, Ghana

“File your returns by April 30” – GRA intensifies public education

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The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is intensifying public education as part of activities marking this year’s Tax and Good Governance Month, aimed at improving compliance among taxpayers.

The Head of Compliance at the Bolgatanga Taxpayer Service Centre, Kwabena Nti Dankwah, said in an interview on A1 Radio that the annual initiative, observed every April, focuses on educating individuals and businesses on their tax obligations, particularly the need to file annual returns.

He said the Income Tax Act, 2015 (Act 896) requires all persons who earn income, including individuals, companies, and other entities, to file tax returns.

“If you receive income, you are required to file a return. That is why GRA dedicates April each year to educate and encourage taxpayers to comply,” he said.

Mr. Nti Dankwah explained that individuals must file their returns within four months after the end of the financial year, which runs from January to December, making April 30 the deadline.

Companies, he said, are also required to file within four months after the end of their respective accounting periods.

He noted that the law allows taxpayers to apply for an extension if they are unable to meet the deadline, particularly where accounting processes are delayed.

“Even with the deadline, the law provides an opportunity to request an extension. Upon request, additional time may be granted,” he said.

Mr. Nti Dankwah added that the GRA has transitioned to a fully digital system, enabling taxpayers to file returns and make payments online through the Taxpayer Service Portal.

He said the platform has simplified the process, making it more accessible and convenient for users nationwide.

He urged all eligible taxpayers to take advantage of the education campaign and file their returns before the deadline to avoid penalties.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga

“We are facing transmission problems, not dumsor” – NDC

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A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communications team in the Upper East Region, Yussif Abdul Kadir, has rejected claims that Ghana is experiencing a return of “dumsor,” attributing the current power outages to technical challenges within the transmission system.

Speaking on A1 Radio, he acknowledged ongoing difficulties in the energy sector but insisted the situation differs from previous crises, which were largely driven by inadequate generation capacity.

He said past interventions, including investments in thermal plants, helped expand electricity generation beyond demand.

“It is unfortunate that anytime we come into office, we are confronted with challenges. But the good thing is that we face them head-on and resolve them,” he said.

Mr. Abdul Kadir noted that electricity demand will continue to rise, stressing the need for sustained investment in supply.

He credited former President John Dramani Mahama with taking steps during his first term to boost generation capacity through projects such as Karpower and Ameri.

According to him, the current outages are not due to generation shortfalls but challenges within the transmission network.

“Now, we are confronted with another problem, which is ageing transmission lines and transformers,” he said.

He explained that faults in high-capacity transformers and transmission infrastructure at substations can disrupt power supply across multiple areas, as these systems are responsible for distributing electricity from generation sources to consumers.

His comments come amid calls from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the government to publish a load-shedding timetable following intermittent outages linked to a recent fire at the GRIDCo substation in Akosombo.

While acknowledging the inconvenience caused, Mr. Abdul Kadir expressed confidence that the situation will improve as efforts are made to stabilise the transmission network.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga

“Dumsor is back” – NPP’s Sanusi demands load-shedding timetable

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A member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communications team in the Upper East Region, Alhaji Issah Sanusi, has joined calls for the government to publish a load-shedding timetable as parts of the country continue to experience intermittent power supply.

Speaking in an interview on A1 Radio, he argued that the current situation reflects a return of “dumsor,” insisting that outages are widespread and not limited to isolated areas. He maintained that even regions with minimal industrial activity are being affected, suggesting the problem is national in scope.

His comments follow recent disruptions in electricity supply linked to a fire outbreak at the GRIDCo substation at Akosombo, raising concerns about the stability of the national grid.

According to him, the government’s reluctance to acknowledge the situation and provide a timetable is making it difficult for individuals and businesses to plan their activities. He stressed that a clear schedule would help mitigate the impact of the outages.

“Provide us with timetables similar to dumsor schedules so that we can plan our lives. It is simple. If I know that tomorrow I will not have power, then I can prepare myself. But this approach of denying the situation does not help. They can help us by providing a timetable,” he said.

He also questioned why the country is facing such challenges despite existing financial measures in the energy sector. He pointed to revenue generated from fuel-related levies, arguing that such resources should have helped prevent the current situation.

“If you sit down and do the calculations, we should not be experiencing dumsor. Between January and December, the country consumed about 17 billion litres of fuel, and on each litre, we are paying one cedi,” he said.

Alhaji Sanusi attributed the power challenges to broader issues within the energy sector, including liquidity constraints and generation shortfalls.

“Why should we face a challenge like this? It is about cash flow, liquidity, and generation problems,” he said.

He urged authorities to be transparent about the situation and take practical steps to address it, rather than downplaying the extent of the problem.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga

Assembly member support Yarigabisi JHS BECE candidates

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The Assembly Member for the Yarigabisi Electoral Area, Adamu Apasinure, has donated mathematical sets to Yarigabisi Junior High School to support students preparing for this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

The donation is aimed at improving students’ learning and equipping them with the tools needed to perform well in their examinations.

A total of 23 students, made up of 16 girls and seven boys, are registered to sit for the BECE this year.

Mr. Apasinure said the support was necessary to ensure that candidates have access to essential learning materials, particularly for mathematics, which requires precision and appropriate tools.

The items included compasses, protractors, rulers, and other instruments used in geometry and related tasks.

Receiving the items on behalf of the school, Headmaster Azupo Clement urged the candidates to take their studies seriously.

“Your today will determine your tomorrow. Marry your books today, and you will shine tomorrow,” he said.

He expressed appreciation to the assembly member, noting that such interventions boost the morale of both students and teachers.

Mr. Apasinure, known for his commitment to education and community development, encouraged the students to make good use of the materials and remain focused on their studies to achieve success in the BECE.

He added that community support plays a key role in improving educational outcomes and preparing students for the future.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Joseph Napoleon Anaaya | Bolgatanga

“My wings cover everyone” – Tongraan

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The Paramount Chief of the Talensi Traditional Area, Tongraan Kugbilsong Nanlebegtang, has reaffirmed his commitment to serving all people irrespective of their political affiliations, stressing that his role as a traditional ruler transcends partisan lines.

The chief, known in private life as Robert Nachinab Doameng Mosore, made the remarks when the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, paid a courtesy call on him at his palace in Tongo.

Tongraan Nanlebegtang, who previously served as Member of Parliament for the Talensi Constituency on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party, abdicated his parliamentary seat in 2015 following his enskinment, in line with Article 276 (1) of the 1992 Constitution, which bars chiefs from engaging in active party politics. His resignation paved the way for a by-election won by Benson Tongo Baba of the NDC.

Addressing his guests, the paramount chief emphasized that his current position requires neutrality and inclusiveness.

“My wings cover everyone from left to right, forward and backwards,” he said. “As you have said, I want those of you who knew me before and now to understand that I now cover all of you, all the politicians.”

He noted that his interactions with political leaders are guided by his responsibility to promote unity and development rather than partisan interests.

“When John came here, I blessed him. When Mahamudu came here, I blessed him. Why? Because these are all our children. “Anyone of them who holds the mantle is holding it for all of us and indeed for the whole of Ghana,” he stated.

The chief further called on political actors in the Upper East Region, particularly within the Talensi Constituency, to put aside their differences and work together in the interest of development.

“I would like to call on all party members, both the NPP and the NDC, in this region and in this constituency to unite as a people. Because we need development and peace. It is development and peace that we need,” he urged.

Tongraan Nanlebegtang cautioned the youth against misunderstanding politics as a platform for confrontation.

“Some of the young ones think that party politicking is fighting. It is not so. It is not about strength; it is about what you can do,” he added.

He also expressed optimism about ongoing development projects in the area, citing improvements in road infrastructure, including work on the Sheaga Junction to Pelungu stretch.

The paramount chief appealed to Johnson Asiedu Nketia to use his influence to ensure the Upper East Region receives its fair share of national development.

“You are my very good friend. You owe it to us as a region to ensure that we get a very big chunk of the cake so that we shall also see development in this area,” he said.

Reiterating his stance, Tongraan Nanlebegtang assured that his palace remains open to all, regardless of political background, as he continues to champion peace, unity, and progress in the Talensi Traditional Area.

A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah

NDC Chairman credits party branch executives for 2024 election victory

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The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has commended branch executives and grassroots members for their role in securing the party’s victory in the 2024 general elections.

He made the remarks during a two-day “Thank You Tour” of the Upper East Region, part of a nationwide engagement aimed at expressing appreciation to voters and accounting for the government’s stewardship following the election.

Addressing party members, Mr. Asiedu Nketia said the success of the campaign was largely due to the efforts of grassroots operatives who worked across communities to canvass support.

“During the campaign, we worked together. I saw how many of you, particularly the branch executives, moved from village to village, town to town, house to house, to canvass votes,” he said.

He added that many contributors to the victory often go unrecognized.

“We cannot identify you individually, but I know there were people whose job was to hoist the flags and face the odds. We want to thank them very much. Others were in the offices planning the entire election strategy. They organised rallies and went everywhere to make our campaign very impressive. We are grateful to them,” he said.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia also praised the party’s candidates, describing their contributions as key to reducing internal divisions during the campaign period.

“You are very good candidates because you cannot win elections without good candidates. In earlier campaigns, there were divisions, but this time they were largely reduced,” he said.

He urged members to maintain unity going forward.

“I want to urge you to remain united. Ignore your differences and focus on building the party. Even if you have not won previously, history will remember your efforts and contributions,” he added.

The first day of the tour took Mr. Asiedu Nketia to Talensi, Nabdam, Bongo, and Bolgatanga East constituencies. He was accompanied by national executives, Members of Parliament, District Chief Executives, the Upper East Regional Minister, and regional and constituency executives.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Bolgatanga

Kotintaabig chief presses NDC for development after 26 years of electoral support

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The Chief of Kotintaabig, Naab Bileehsong La’anwont Namoog, has called on the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) to deliver significant development to the Nabdam District, citing the area’s consistent electoral support for the party over the past 26 years.

The chief, who serves under the Sekoti Traditional Council, made the appeal during a visit by NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah as part of his nationwide Thank You Tour.

“Nabdam has supported the NDC for almost 26 years. But what we are getting is not what we are expecting,” Naab Bileehsong said.

He demanded development projects across key sectors, including roads, health, education, agriculture, and employment, stressing that the constituency expects tangible returns for its electoral support.

“I believe in Hon. Nketiah to take this position. You are a grassroots leader. I admire you from afar,” he said.

The chief added that he had expected the Thank You Tour to come with concrete development interventions for the district.

“I am happy to announce that we have the Agenda 111 hospital, but it has been abandoned. It was one of the promises made during the campaign,” he said.

Highlighting the health challenges in the area, he noted that residents urgently need improved healthcare facilities.

“Our people are mostly farmers, and when they fall sick, access to healthcare becomes a challenge. So we trust you, grassroots leader. The needs of our people are greater,” he added.

Mr. Asiedu Nketiah’s Thank You Tour is aimed at expressing appreciation to voters and engaging communities following the NDC’s return to power.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Nabdam

Agenda 111 hospital to be completed soon – Asiedu Nketiah assures Nabdam residents

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The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has announced that ongoing Agenda 111 hospital project will soon be completed and operationalised as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in the Nabdam Constituency in the Upper East Region.

He made the remarks during a thank-you tour of the constituency, where he engaged chiefs, party supporters, and residents as part of his broader visit to the Upper East Region.

Mr. Asiedu Nketiah acknowledged delays in the previous government’s flagship Agenda 111 project but assured residents that the facilities, once completed, will significantly improve access to healthcare.

He said the initiative, which involves the construction of 111 district hospitals nationwide, is expected to expand healthcare infrastructure and reduce pressure on existing health facilities.

“These hospitals will soon be completed and fully operational, and Nabdam Constituency will benefit immensely once they become functional,” he said.

He added that the operationalisation of the facilities will improve access to quality healthcare, reduce travel distances for medical care, and ultimately save lives.

Mr. Asiedu Nketiah also expressed appreciation to residents of Nabdam for their continued support for the NDC and encouraged them to remain patient as government works to complete ongoing projects.

He was accompanied by national, regional, constituency, and branch executives of the party during the one-day tour, which also took him to Talensi, Bongo, and Bolgatanga East constituencies.

The visit formed part of his broader engagement with traditional leaders and party supporters across the region to strengthen unity and assess development needs at the grassroots level.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Joseph Napoleon Anaaya | Bolgatanga

“Those who say four cows is expensive for bride price are not serious” – Akobulgozotipelba

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A former Assembly Member for the Bugsonga Electoral Area and cultural enthusiast from Sirigu in the Upper East Region, Ayeoh-Duko Akobulgozotipelba, has sparked fresh debate after dismissing claims that bride price demands, particularly those involving cattle, are excessive and discourage marriage.

Speaking on the Love Affairs programme on A1 Radio, Mr. Akobulgozotipelba described critics of traditional bride price systems as “not serious,” insisting that such arguments ignore the deeper cultural and social meaning behind the practice.

His comments follow a viral social media controversy in which a young woman from the Builsa area described local bride price customs as “cheap,” triggering widespread discussion across the Upper East Region and beyond.

Mr. Akobulgozotipelba, however, shifted the focus to communities where cattle form a central part of bride price, explaining that the practice is rooted in appreciation rather than transaction.

“When a family raises a daughter, feeding her, caring for her, and guiding her into adulthood, and she eventually marries into another family, there must be a form of appreciation,” he said.

According to him, items such as cows, sheep, or goats are not arbitrary demands but symbolic gestures acknowledging the effort invested in raising the woman.

He further revealed that in some traditions, marriage is formally communicated not only to the living but also to ancestors. This is done through a symbolic “file,” or report sent through family elders to the bride’s lineage, signifying her transition into another family.

“That moment marks the end of her status as a single woman. She now belongs to a family, a community, and a territory,” he explained.

Contrary to perceptions of rigidity, Mr. Akobulgozotipelba emphasized that bride price payments, whether two, three, or four cows, are often not required as a lump sum.

“It is not compulsory to gather everything in one day,” he noted. “Some people take years. Others even marry and live peacefully without completing it immediately.”

He added that variations exist across communities, with some families accepting fewer animals or allowing delayed payments.

In his most controversial remarks, Mr. Akobulgozotipelba attributed complaints about high bride price to personal attitudes rather than systemic issues.

“These are people who are not ready for responsibility. They are lazy, greedy, and unwilling to build a future,” he said.

He argued that the same individuals who complain about paying bride price often spend heavily on alcohol, social events, and modern weddings.

“How much is a wedding? How much is a bottle of beer? People spend far more on those things, yet complain about cows meant to honour a family,” he added.

Mr. Akobulgozotipelba also highlighted a lesser-discussed aspect of bride price, its role in supporting the bride’s family structure.

He explained that cattle received can help the bride’s brothers or relatives secure marriages of their own, creating a cycle of mutual support within extended families.

“It helps fill the vacuum. The family that has ‘lost’ a daughter gains resources to build again,” he said.

The ongoing debate reflects broader tensions between tradition and modernity, particularly among younger generations navigating economic realities and evolving social norms.

While some continue to advocate for reforms or reductions in bride price, Mr. Akobulgozotipelba maintains that the issue is overstated.

“To compare the value of a lifelong partner to a few cows and call it expensive, that, to me, is not a serious argument,” he concluded.

A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Samuel Adagom | Bolgatanga

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