GQWAVES.com

In a recent press briefing, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, made a compelling case for Ghanaians to reconsider the necessity of holding a passport. With the effective implementation of the National Identification system, the minister highlighted that passports have been dethroned as the primary source of identification for Ghanaians.

The minister’s address to journalists underscored the sufficiency of the National ID for both identification and travel into Ghana, urging those without an immediate need for a passport, especially those who find the cost prohibitive, to abstain from applying. This call comes amidst concerns that government subsidies on passport applications may be unsustainable and could potentially degrade the quality of service provided to citizens.

In light of the government’s fiscal prudence, the Ministry has announced an adjustment in passport fees, effective from April 1, 2024. The revised fees are set at GHS800 for an expedited 48-page passport and GHS700 for a 32-page document, in accordance with the 2023 fees and charges regulations, L.I.2481.

The minister reassured the public that these adjustments are not intended to impose financial burdens but are a necessary response to economic realities. She also stated the ministry’s readiness to cooperate with any parliamentary review of the fee structure, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its decision-making processes.

As Ghana navigates the complexities of identity management and fiscal responsibility, the minister’s declarations mark a significant shift in policy and public expectation, placing the National Identification system at the forefront of the country’s identity verification framework.

It is common knowledge that Obuasi West remains a safe seat for the New Patriotic Party since 1996 as the party has comfortably maintained the seat after winning back to back elections.

In Ghana, the informal sector constitute about 85 per cent of the country’s workforce yet some seem miserable in their old age because of the lack of financial stability.

AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi Mine following a needs assessment conducted on local SMEs, which results showed that majority of local SMEs needed sensitization and capacity enhancement in national regulatory requirements around VAT (value added tax), SSNIT payments on behalf of their employees and themselves, and income tax payments, decided to team up with SSNIT to organize a two day training and capacity building for them in Obuasi.

The training according to the Community Relations Manager of AngloGold Ashanti Edmond Oduro Agyei involved more than 400 small and medium-sized enterprises in Obuasi. The participants were taken through modules like Making sound business investments, planning a sound capital structure, Recognition of Business Opportunities, Commercialising a Concept, and initiating a business venture, among other topics.

Facilitators for the capacity building workshop were drawn from various reputable organizations such as the Ghana Revenue Authority, Ghana Enterprises Agency, SSNIT, Agric Development Bank, and Absa Bank Ghana who provided valuable insights and guidance to the participants throughout the workshop. 

The Community Relations Manager emphasized the need for business owners to invest in their future and that of their employees. He said “by investing in the future of their workforce, SMEs are not only ensuring a safety net for individuals but also strengthening Ghana’s overall social security system. 

He said it was refreshing to note that after the workshop, more than 300 SMEs had  joined the SSNIT Informal Pension scheme. He said this demonstrates their dedication to building a sustainable and supportive work environment, helping to achieve the goal of AGA’s 10-Year SEDP of contributing to resilient and socio-economically self-sustaining communities in Obuasi,” 

SSNIT’s SELF EMPLOYED ENROLMENT DRIVE

According to the Obuasi Manager of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust ( SSNIT) Monica Awuku, they collaborated with AngloGold Ashanti to roll out the training program as a means to reach out to players in the informal sector.

He said the workshop provided opportunity for SSNIT to introduce the Self-employed Enrolment Drive (SEED). The  initiative is aimed at encouraging self-employed persons to sign up onto the SSNIT scheme in order to access the benefits once they were qualified.

After the workshop, more than 300 business owners joined the scheme. This she said was commendable expressing the need for others to join to have a secured future.

Meanwhile participants of the workshop lauded AngloGold Ashanti and SSNIT for the training program. They intimated that the workshop will impact positively on their businesses.

Gabriel Nsiah ASARE, the Obuasi District chairman of the Ghana Tailors and Dressmakers Association said the various modules taught at the workshop were what they needed to improve their businesses. 

He however appealed to AngloGold Ashanti to contract the Association to sew uniforms for the company. ” We need AngloGold Ashanti to engage us to sew their uniforms for them. This will enable them see the real benefits and impacts of these workshops”.

Catholic Voices GH, a renowned choral group in Ghana but based in Obuasi recently concluded its highly anticipated 3rd edition of the Lent to Easter Concert at St. Thomas Cathedral in Obuasi on Sunday 24^th March, 2024. 

The program captivated audiences with its profound exploration of the significance of Easter in today’s world. Catholic Voices GH inspired and captivated the audience with their musical prowess. Their dedication to spreading the message of Easter’s relevance through choral music to the world remains a beacon of hope and enlightenment for all.

The Lent to Easter Concert, proved to be a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and spiritually enriched. The event served as a platform to reflect on the profound meaning of Easter and its relevance to contemporary society.

Distinguished guests, including the Catholic Diocesan Bishop of Obuasi, Most Rev. John Yaw Afoakwah, and numerous priests from the Obuasi Diocese, graced the event.

Hon. Faustilove Appiah Kannin, the NDC Obuasi West parliamentary candidate, commended the choirs for their exceptional performances, with a special mention for Catholic Voice GH. In her brief Easter statement, she lauded the group’s dedication and urged the youth to continue engaging in meaningful activities within God’s vineyard.

Joseph Owusu-Addo, the Executive Director of Catholic Voices GH, emphasized the importance of religious activities through choral music. He called upon all stakeholders in the Creative Arts department and churches to organize such events during festive seasons, rather than limiting celebrations to ordinary social events held annually.

 The Executive Director emphasized that events like the Lent to Easter Concert provided a unique opportunity for individuals to deepen their spiritual connection and foster a greater understanding of religious traditions.

Members of the audience were interviewed after the program, and their responses reflected the immense joy and satisfaction they experienced throughout the evening. Many attendees commended Catholic Voices GH for their exceptional contribution to the event, acknowledging the group’s dedication and talent.

Additionally, the other invited choirs received well-deserved accolades for their beautiful performances, which added diversity and depth to the concert. The seamless coordination among the choirs showcased the collaborative spirit and the collective commitment to musical excellence.

Reverend Father Dominic Baffuor Akowuah, one of the esteemed guests present at the event, expressed his admiration for the choirs’ spirited performances. He highlighted the energy, passion, and devotion displayed throughout the concert, commending the choirs for their exceptional musicality.