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Galamsey undermining education in Talensi, says District Director

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The District Director of Education for Talensi, Christiana Ayinezoya Azure, has raised serious concerns about the increasing number of school dropouts and poor academic performance in the area, attributing much of the challenge to the growing lure of illegal mining activities (galamsey) among school-age children.

According to Madam Azure, many students registered for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) are failing to attend classes regularly, with some disappearing entirely after registration. In certain cases, school authorities have had to bar students from taking the exams due to chronic absenteeism.

“There have been instances where heads of basic schools have stopped children from writing the exams because they failed to attend classes after being registered,” she explained. This trend, she said, has become a major setback for education in the district.

Speaking during an interview on A1 Radio, she noted that parents are struggling to maintain control over their children, many of whom are turning to galamsey operations for quick financial gain. These children—often as young as 13—now earn their own income and have become financially independent, making it difficult for parents to enforce discipline or prioritize education. The allure of instant rewards continues to draw more children, particularly boys, away from the classroom and into mining pits, with some even flaunting their newfound wealth at home.

“They should reconsider the fact that the mining resources are just for today, but we are looking at the future,” she warned. “Those we are able to convince may think about it and return to school, but over time, they may lure many more to join them.”

The situation is even more dire for young girls, who are often lured to mining sites where they are camped—and in many cases—end up pregnant. Most of these girls are in Junior High School (JHS), between the ages of 13 and 16. While a re-entry policy exists to allow pregnant students to return to school, reintegration often requires extensive support from community leaders, schools, families, and even the girls’ partners.

“Because of our re-entry policy, we encourage them to come back to school with the pregnancy and still go through. Last year, for example, we had up to seven girls writing the BECE while pregnant,” she stated.

Despite these challenges, the district has seen some progress in BECE performance, though the results remain discouraging. Madam Azure noted that when she assumed office, the pass rate stood at 26 percent. This has since improved to 46 percent, but she insists the figure is still far from satisfactory, especially given the support from local authorities, including the District Chief Executive, the District Assembly, and Members of Parliament.

“For the past three years, I have never been able to clock 50 percent for the district. Even though we are making steady progress—I inherited 26 percent and moved to 46—it’s still not encouraging. I can’t imagine a district like this, where you have able teachers and strong support for education from the DCE, the District Assembly, and the MPs, yet we cannot reach 50 percent in BECE performance. That is worrying,” she lamented.

She emphasized that efforts are ongoing to reverse the negative trend. She has been engaging parents on the importance of playing active roles in their children’s education and has encouraged headteachers to revive Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to foster stronger collaboration between schools and families.

“Education cannot be the sole responsibility of the government. Everyone who matters should contribute,” she stressed. “And I believe that what the district, through the Assembly, is doing—with the support of the DCE and the MP—we are making steady progress. I know that with every opportunity we get to sensitize children, parents, and stakeholders, we will see positive change.”

“I expect stakeholders—like the Assembly—to enact and enforce by-laws that set an age limit for children working in the mining pits. I know such laws exist; it’s just a matter of gazetting and enforcing them,” she added.

She also emphasized the need for collective responsibility in addressing the educational crisis, urging all stakeholders to take an active role in shaping a better future for children. Part of this strategy includes working with the District Assembly to implement and enforce by-laws that restrict minors from engaging in mining activities.

According to Madam Azure, with increased sensitization and greater community involvement, there is hope that more children will return to school and prioritize education over temporary economic gains. She remains optimistic that with the combined efforts of government, community leaders, schools, and families, Talensi—and Ghana as a whole—can achieve better educational outcomes and secure a brighter future for its youth.

“Everybody should come on board to ensure that our future leaders are well educated and supported in whatever way necessary to make education a better, more admirable path—so they can become responsible, useful citizens for Mother Ghana,” she concluded.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

Talensi GES Director raises alarm over declining discipline among young people

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The District Director of Education for Talensi, Christiana Ayinezoya Azure, has expressed deep concern over what she describes as a growing crisis in child upbringing and discipline within the Talensi District and across the country.

Speaking during an interview on A1 Radio, Madam Azure highlighted the increasing difficulty parents face in controlling their children, attributing the situation to broader systemic and societal issues. She noted that the traditional values of respect and discipline among the youth appear to be eroding, with many children showing little regard for authority or elders—a stark contrast to previous generations.

A significant factor contributing to the problem, she observed, is the rise in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey. According to her, some children now engage in these activities and earn their own money, making them financially independent of their parents at a very young age. This financial autonomy undermines parental authority, as some children are now able to provide for themselves and even flaunt their earnings at home.

Many parents, particularly those from low-income households, reportedly feel powerless in the face of this shift. Unable to meet their children’s material needs, they often surrender control, allowing the youth to act as they please. The result is a growing generation that is not only difficult to guide but also increasingly disengaged from education and formal upbringing.

“Some parents have complained that controlling their wards has become an issue because, growing up, they depended on their parents for basic needs. But these days, the children go to the mining pit to do the galamsey. They have their own pocket money, and when you tell them that if they don’t go to school, there will be no food for them, they’ll go and eat better food—like Indomie and whatnot—and bring it home to show off. So, in a way, parents are finding it difficult to control their children because of the galamsey activities,” she said.

Madam Azure believes that without urgent intervention, the current trend could lead to long-term societal challenges, especially in communities where galamsey is prevalent. She urged parents across the country to deeply reflect on the root causes of these changes in behavior.

“It’s something that I think, nationally, we need to look at—how to raise our children again—because it appears we have gone astray in terms of discipline or something like that. But something is wrong with the system, I think,” she concluded.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

World Vision Ghana launches BORDER project to strengthen resilience, stability in Northern Ghana

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World Vision Ghana (WVG), in collaboration with RACED Ghana and with funding support from the PATRIP Foundation, has officially launched the BORDER Project—an ambitious initiative designed to build resilience and promote peace in some of the most vulnerable communities along Ghana’s northern frontier. The initiative is a timely response to the growing socio-economic and environmental challenges facing the Upper East and Upper West regions.

The BORDER Project specifically targets communities in the Sissala West, Binduri, and Bawku West districts, including Zini, Fielmo, Issakatinga, Bansi, and Tarikom, as well as the Zini and Tarikom Refugee Camps. These communities are increasingly under pressure due to worsening climate shocks, food insecurity, deteriorating access to clean water and healthcare, and the influx of refugees fleeing conflict in neighboring Burkina Faso.

Speaking at the launch, officials emphasized the need for a comprehensive, community-led response to the multiple challenges threatening both stability and development in the area. The BORDER Project aims to directly benefit 19,219 individuals—13,454 Ghanaians and 5,765 Burkinabe refugees—and is expected to indirectly impact an additional 33,657 people.

The project will implement a suite of integrated interventions, including the provision and rehabilitation of solar-powered water systems, the construction of eco-friendly biofill sanitation facilities in homes, schools, and healthcare centers, and the refurbishment of healthcare facilities with a focus on maternal and child health.

It will also establish drip irrigation systems to promote year-round farming, while training farmers in climate-smart agricultural practices. Additional components include promoting sustainable land use through the creation of Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs) and strengthening the capacities of traditional leaders, local authorities, and security personnel in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

A key element of the initiative is the enhancement of early warning systems and community preparedness to effectively respond to crises, thereby boosting the overall resilience of communities affected by both environmental and conflict-driven shocks.

The objectives of the BORDER Project are to enhance resilience to climate and conflict-related disruptions, improve access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and food security, promote peaceful coexistence between host communities and refugees, and foster environmental sustainability.

Expected outcomes include increased availability of clean water, improved sanitation and healthcare access, enhanced food security and economic prospects for vulnerable groups, and stronger local governance and peacebuilding mechanisms. The project also aims to protect the environment through sustainable land management and reforestation efforts.

The BORDER Project is aligned with Ghana’s National Development Plan 2030 and supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also contributes to the broader Gulf of Guinea Joint Response Plan, underscoring its regional importance.

A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah

Bongo District NHIA Manager killed and set ablaze in vehicle

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The Upper East Region is in mourning and shock following the gruesome murder and burning of Mahamadu Seidu Akugri, the Bongo District Manager of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), whose charred body was discovered in a torched vehicle at Nangodi in the Nabdam District.

According to sources, the incident occurred on the evening of Monday, May 19, between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m., as Mr. Akugri was returning home from Bolgatanga, the regional capital. Unknown assailants reportedly ambushed him, shot him, and set his car ablaze, incinerating his body beyond recognition. The savage nature of the killing has sent waves of fear and outrage across the region.

In a strong statement of condemnation, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central and Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, called the act “dastardly” and extended his condolences to the family of the deceased.

“I hereby condemn, in no uncertain terms, the shooting, killing and burning of the body of Mahamadu Seidu Akugri… My heartfelt condolences to the family of my late comrade,” said the MP.

He further urged the law enforcement agencies to swiftly investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators to justice. “I urge all to remain calm and focus on the ongoing efforts led by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to bring a lasting solution to the Bawku situation,” Ayariga added, making reference to broader regional security concerns.

Police have yet to issue an official statement on the motives or suspects behind the killing. However, security has since been heightened in the area, and investigations are said to be underway.

The late Seidu Akugri was a well-regarded public servant, known for his dedication to health insurance delivery in the Bongo District. His death is a devastating blow not only to his family and colleagues but to the NHIA in Bongo and the region as a whole.

A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|Bolgatanga

Next great digital developer can and must come from Africa – MTN CEO

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The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has made a passionate call for the support and nurturing of digital innovation in Africa, stating that the next big breakthrough in the digital world “can and must come from Africa.”

Speaking at the MTN Editors and Stakeholders Forum held in Tamale, Mr. Blewett emphasized the urgent need to equip African youth with cutting-edge digital skills to compete on the global tech stage. The forum brought together journalists and media stakeholders from the Northern, Savannah, Upper West, North East, and Upper East regions.

“There’s no reason why the next Instagram, Facebook, or major digital platform can’t originate from here,” he stated. “We always import digital innovations—why not export them instead?”

Mr. Blewett mentioned MTN’s ongoing initiatives aimed at driving digital inclusion, such as the MTN Skills Academy, which focuses on training young Africans in coding, web development, data analytics, and more. He also reiterated MTN’s pioneering role in Ghana’s One Million Coder Project, in partnership with the Ministry of Communications, to build AI and coding proficiency among the country’s youth.

“These initiatives aren’t just about skills development. They’re about rewriting the story of Africa’s place in the digital future,” Blewett added.

In addition to its digital training efforts, MTN has launched a year-long SME empowerment initiative. A key feature of this program is the MTN Adwumapa package, specially tailored for women-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This initiative provides access to networking platforms, capacity-building opportunities, and markets—empowering female entrepreneurs in both the formal and informal sectors.

“SMEs are the lifeblood of Ghana’s economy,” Mr. Blewett noted. “When you walk just outside this hotel, you’ll see the backbone of the economy in action. That’s why MTN is committed to supporting SMEs with the tools they need to thrive.”

The MTN Editors and Stakeholders Forum served as a platform to deepen relationships with the media and engage stakeholders on the company’s strategic vision for digital and economic transformation in Ghana.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|Tamale

“We will listen” – MTN says as it strengthens stakeholder collaboration for social impact

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MTN Ghana is reinforcing its commitment to inclusive community development with the rollout of new shared facilities, capacity-building initiatives, and an open-door approach to project proposals from across the country.

Speaking at the 2025 Stakeholder and Editors’ Forum in Tamale, Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, emphasized that the company’s social impact initiatives are central to its corporate values and long-term vision.

“We believe that as an organization, we have an obligation not only to perform well in business but also to give back to the community,” Ms. Wiafe stated. “Some of these engagements, capacity-building efforts, and everything that we do for the media and for others are ways of giving back to the people who have given us so much.”

MTN is currently developing multi-use facilities in partnership with universities and other institutions across Ghana. These facilities, once operational, will be accessible to various groups, including members of the media and development partners, Ms. Wiafe stated.

She noted that one of the guiding principles behind these projects is inclusivity—ensuring that individuals beyond MTN’s immediate ecosystem can benefit from the infrastructure.

“Some of you will have the opportunity to use these facilities,” she said, “but one of the conditions we’re putting forward is that they must also be made available to others. That’s the kind of inclusive development we envision.”

To ensure its interventions are responsive and impactful, MTN Ghana is welcoming feedback from stakeholders on pressing community needs.

Addressing concerns from participants at the forum regarding the MTN Foundation and other charitable initiatives, Ms. Wiafe explained that while not every proposal can be implemented, the company assesses all submissions and prioritizes those aligned with its social impact goals.

“We will listen,” she assured. “We can’t guarantee that every suggestion will be acted on, but we want to know where the needs are so we can ensure our projects address the realities on the ground.”

She added that project selection follows a structured review process, and proposals are already being received from across the country. The goal, she stressed, is to ensure that MTN’s investments in community development make a meaningful difference.

Ms. Wiafe concluded by expressing appreciation to stakeholders for their active participation and partnership. “It’s been so engaging. We are happy with what we’ve seen and the information shared. From the bottom of our hearts, we say thank you. MTN—everywhere you go, we love you and are always there for you.”

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga

 

MTN Ghana to invest up to $240 million in 2025 to expand network, internet services

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MTN Ghana is accelerating the expansion of its infrastructure and internet services in response to the rising demand for reliable connectivity in Ghanaian homes, CEO Stephen Blewett announced at the 2025 Stakeholders and Editors Forum in Tamale.

According to Blewett, households across the country are increasingly relying on internet connectivity for daily activities. In response, MTN has tailored its Fiber to the Home (FTTH) solutions to meet these growing needs, offering high-speed, low-latency internet and flexible data plans to suit different budgets.

“These fiber services provide more than just speed — they deliver stability and reduce pressure on our mobile networks,” said Blewett. “By rolling out fiber in major hubs, we’re not only improving fixed internet access but also freeing up mobile capacity, enhancing the overall user experience.”

The FTTH initiative, part of MTN’s broader digital agenda, aims to bridge the digital divide and empower individuals, businesses, and communities across Ghana.

Blewett revealed that MTN Ghana has invested over $1 billion in its network infrastructure over the past five years, with $240 million already committed for 2025. The company is considering increasing this to $300 million by year-end.

“The secret to running a successful network is simple — you must keep spending,” he emphasized. “The moment you stop investing is when the challenges begin.”

So far, MTN has deployed over 5,000 network sites nationwide, with 87.5% of all data traffic now running on advanced 4G technology, ensuring faster and more stable connections.

To future-proof its services, MTN is enhancing 4G capacity and investing heavily in its fiber backbone — the transmission network linking base stations to the core system. In 2025, the company is relocating approximately 130 kilometers of fiber infrastructure to improve resilience and performance.

However, Blewett noted one ongoing challenge: fiber cuts. “It’s an industry-wide issue, and one that continues to affect service reliability,” he said, urging greater awareness and cooperation in protecting digital infrastructure.

With its continued capital investment and focus on digital inclusion, MTN Ghana is positioning itself to power the country’s digital transformation and support long-term economic growth.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga

Africa can lead next tech revolution – MTN CEO

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The next big digital revolution should not come from Silicon Valley, Beijing, or Europe — it must come from Africa. Stephen Blewett, CEO of MTN Ghana, made this bold statement at the 2025 Stakeholders and Editors Forum held in Tamale, where he laid out a compelling vision for the continent’s digital future, driven by its youthful population and growing tech ambition.

In his address, Mr. Blewett said: “The next great development in the digital world can and must come from Africa. There’s absolutely every opportunity for that to happen.” He emphasized that the continent’s vibrant, youthful, and entrepreneurial population holds the key to building globally competitive tech solutions — if only they are empowered with the right tools, skills, and opportunities.

“Sometimes I believe we in Africa don’t understand how much potential we actually have,” he said. “We have young people who know how to be entrepreneurial, who are hungry for more. So we need to empower them to be able to do that.”

Mr. Blewett underscored MTN’s commitment to driving this empowerment through strategic investments in digital innovation, with a vision to ensure that every African thrives in a modern, connected world.

According to him, digital empowerment is crucial — not just as a business priority, but as a social imperative for unlocking Africa’s full potential.

Driving Digital Inclusion

Beyond providing connectivity, MTN is focused on delivering enhanced digital services directly to users. A case in point is the MyMTN app, which has recently been upgraded to feature personalized voice navigation aimed at improving accessibility for differently-abled users.

“We want to touch every Ghanaian hand,” Mr. Blewett emphasized, reflecting the company’s inclusive digital strategy.

He also highlighted MTN’s long-term commitment to digital skills development, notably through the MTN Skills Academy, which equips young Africans with practical skills in coding, web development, and data analytics.

MTN was the first private sector partner to sign onto the Ministry of Communication’s One Million Coders Project — an initiative to train one million young Ghanaians in coding and AI capabilities. “That’s what the coding project is about — giving people the opportunities and the skills,” Mr. Blewett stated.

Africa Rising: A Digital Future

Mr. Blewett challenged stakeholders to rethink Africa’s place in the global digital economy.

“Why do we always have to get everything that comes from somewhere else? Why can’t the next Instagram, Facebook — whatever you want to think about — come from here?” he asked. His comments reflect a growing movement across the continent to redefine Africa’s digital identity — not as passive consumers of innovation, but as creators and leaders in global technology development.

The forum in Tamale brought together media professionals, government stakeholders, and industry leaders to reflect on digital transformation efforts and explore how public-private partnerships can support inclusive technology growth in Ghana and across Africa.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga

MTN reaffirms commitment to open dialogue, expansion in northern Ghana

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MTN Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering open dialogue with the media while expanding its business footprint across the country. This assurance was made by Nii Adotey Mingle, General Manager for MTN’s Northern Business District, at the 2025 MTN Stakeholders and Editors Forum held in Tamale.

The high-level engagement brought together media professionals and stakeholders from four of the five northern regions, in a bid to deepen collaboration and encourage transparent communication between the telecom giant and its key partners.

Speaking at the forum, Mr. Mingle emphasized MTN’s belief in the power of open and meaningful dialogue, describing the media as a critical partner in the company’s journey.

“At MTN, we are constantly committed to building stronger relationships with the media fraternity and encouraging open dialogue, transparency, and collaboration,” he stated. “As key partners in our journey, your role in informing and shaping public discourse is invaluable, and today’s engagement shows how much we value that partnership.”

He further noted that MTN’s presence in the Northern Region reflects its strategic focus on inclusivity and development, highlighting the region’s rich culture, innovation, and potential. Mr. Mingle underscored that MTN’s vision of delivering a modern connected life extends to ensuring communities are not only connected digitally but also empowered through information and engagement.

“This session is designed to not only update you on our progress and plans but also to hear from you. Your feedback, questions, and insights help us improve, innovate, and respond to the needs of our customers and stakeholders more effectively,” he added.

As part of its commitment to digital transformation, Mr. Mingle shared that MTN continues to invest heavily in network infrastructure, digital platforms, and community development across the Northern sector and beyond.

“We are in a rapidly evolving digital era, and as a tech-driven business, MTN is continually investing in our network, in digital platforms, and in the communities we serve,” he said. “But we know that the real impact happens when we work together—and when we engage meaningfully with the people and institutions that tell our stories.”

He noted that the company’s CEO was also present at the forum—marking his first visit to the Northern Region—further reinforcing the importance of the north in MTN’s strategic plans.

Mr. Mingle concluded by encouraging continuous collaboration between MTN and the media to help shape a brighter, digitally connected future for Ghana.

“Today is not just about sharing updates. It’s about strengthening our relationship with you, our media partners, and exploring ways to collaborate in building a brighter digital future.”

The 2025 MTN Stakeholders and Editors Forum in Tamale forms part of MTN Ghana’s broader initiative to engage with its stakeholders across the country and align its operations with the evolving needs of its customers and partners.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga

GJA opens nominations for 2025 National and Regional Executive positions

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The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has officially opened nominations for its 2025 National and Regional Executive Elections.

The nomination period, which began on Friday, May 16, 2025, will run until Friday, May 30, 2025. The announcement marks a significant moment in the association’s democratic calendar as members prepare to elect a new leadership to steer the affairs of the association for the next term.

In a statement released by the GJA Elections Committee, eligible members across the country were encouraged to submit their nominations and contest for leadership positions at both the national and regional levels.

The committee emphasized the importance of passionate and competent individuals stepping forward to contribute to the advancement of journalism in Ghana. The Elections Committee is tasked with organizing, conducting, and supervising the entire electoral process, with technical assistance from the Electoral Commission of Ghana. The nationwide elections are scheduled to be held on Monday, June 30, 2025.

At the national level, positions available for contest include the offices of President, Vice President, General Secretary, Organising Secretary, Treasurer, and Public Affairs Officer.

For regional elections, members will contest for the positions of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer. Aspiring candidates are required to obtain nomination forms, which are accessible through a secure online link upon proof of payment into the designated GJA account held at the National Investment Bank Limited, Osu Branch. The account is registered under the name Ghana Journalists Association, and the account number is 1112037799401.

To successfully complete the nomination process, candidates must pay a non-refundable nomination fee. For national-level contests, the fee is set at GH¢5,000 for the presidency and GH¢3,000 for all other positions.

At the regional level, the fee is GH¢1,500 for the position of Chairperson, while the fee for all other roles is GH¢1,000. Completed forms must be submitted along with a recent bust-size photograph featuring a red background.

As part of the election process, all nominees will undergo a vetting process to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. National candidates will be vetted in person at the Ghana International Press Centre in Accra from Tuesday, June 3 to Thursday, June 5, 2025. Regional candidates will be vetted virtually within the same timeframe. The results of the vetting exercise will be published on Friday, June 6.

The committee also announced other important dates leading up to the elections. The official election calendar will be issued on Monday, May 19, while the voters register is expected to be published by Friday, May 30. Balloting for positions will take place on Monday, June 9, immediately followed by the start of the official campaign period, which will end on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

Chair of the Elections Committee, Peter Martey Agbeko, assured members of the GJA that the committee is putting in place all necessary measures to ensure that the election process is credible, free, and transparent. He expressed confidence in the cooperation of all stakeholders and reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to upholding the democratic principles and values that the GJA stands for.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Bolgatanga

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