Environment Agency: Rising sea levels will wash away 7,000 UK homes

Some 7,000 homes around the UK will be swept away by the sea over the next century because it will be too expensive build sea defences, according to a report from the Environment Agency.

The research, contained in an unpublished agency report seen by The Guardian newspaper, also predicts that more than 800 buildings will be lost during in the next 20 years.

Chris Blunkell, a coastal community campaigner, told The Guardian that the government should learn from the “overwhelming” impact of last year’s storms. 

“Last winter’s storms saw the eastern seaboard overwhelmed,” he said. “If government won’t defend all people living on the coast, then it must make sure that they can move elsewhere, and that means compensating them for their loss. It’s wrong that the costs of climate change should be borne by the most vulnerable.”

Earlier this month, seven homes were badly damaged as the biggest tidal surge in 60 years hit the Norfolk coast. Three properties fell into the sea at the village of Hemsby and four more were seriously undermined.

Ray Mooney, who was inside his home as the storm hit, told the BBC: “I heard a crash and the whole back part of the floor caved in. Everything went down.”

He said he was assessing the damage but expected the property to be either demolished or washed out to sea. “This is my only asset,” he said. “That’s it, I haven’t got anything else. I had just done the house up to sell but now I have nothing. I’m homeless.”

Blunkell contrasted the sea defences for London with the rest of the country. He said: “During last year’s tidal surge, the biggest since 1953, some people on the east coast were evacuated from their homes and given a biscuit in the church hall. Yet Londoners could sleep easy protected by the Thames Barrier. A biscuit for some and a barrier for others is unjust, and such injustice will grow with rising sea levels.”

The population of London is protected by Treasury rules that say any coastal defence work must save £8 for every pound spent. This means that built-up areas with valuable houses are more likely to benefit from what public spending there is on sea defences. 

At present there is no compensation scheme for people who lose their homes to the sea. 

According to the report, the county most at risk from sea surges was Cornwall; more than 70 homes are expected to be swept away.

Bodies Found In AirAsia Missing Plane Search

At least 40 bodies and wreckage including a plane door and oxygen tanks have been recovered in the search for missing AirAsia Flight QZ8501.

The bodies - which were not wearing life jackets - have been brought on board a navy ship, said Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Director SB Supriyadi. 

Local television broadcast pictures of the bodies floating in the sea.

"The warship Bung Tomo has retrieved 40 bodies and the number is growing. They are very busy now," said a navy spokesman.

They were found in the Java Sea about six miles (10km) from where the plane last communicated with air traffic control.

Search chief SB Supriyadi also said an air force Hercules had "found an object described as a shadow at the bottom of the sea in the form of a plane".

Objects spotted earlier  have also been confirmed as wreckage from the plane and some have been taken away by helicopter for testing.

AirAsia boss Tony Fernandes said he was rushing to the scene and wrote on Twitter: "My heart is filled with sadness for all the families involved in QZ 8501.

"On behalf of AirAsia my condolences to all. Words cannot express how sorry I am."

The Airbus A320-200 disappeared from radar on Sunday morning, on its way from Surabaya in Indonesia to Singapore.

There were 162 people on board, including one British man, Hull-born Chi Man Choi, and his two-year-old daughter.

The aircraft's last request - to climb higher to avoid a storm - was turned down.

Minutes later it fell off the radar without giving any distress call.

Geoffrey Thomas, editor of AirlineRatings.com, told Sky News: "We have a radar plot which shows the plane actually climbing through 36,300ft - it wasn't given permission to do that.

"It also shows that its speed had decayed by 134mph and dropped dramatically to a level where it couldn't sustain flight."

Some 30 ships and 21 aircraft from South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia and Indonesia have been involved in searching 10,000 nautical miles of ocean.

Source: Sky News

ECG Energy Saving Tips

1. Use low energy compact fluorescent lamps as replacements for traditional incandescent lamps.

2. Install low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators to reduce water usage and its associated energy for heating.

3. Ensure that hot water cylinders and hot water pipes are well insulated.

4. Ensure that thermostats for appliances are effective and set at moderate levels.

5. Use energy saving settings on refrigerators/freezers, air conditioners, dishwashers, clothes washers, and clothes dryers

6. Reduce air conditioning costs by
a) Cleaning or replacing the filter once a month
b) Sealing air leaks through the doorways, window, wall cracks etc.
c) Planting shade trees and shrubs around the house especially on the west side

7. Replace ageing inefficient appliances, especially when they need major repairs, with the most energy-efficient models

Follow on Twitter @Quabynah 

CAF writes to Ghana to host AFCON 2015

The government of Ghana has confirmed the receipt of a letter from the Confederation of African football to be on standby to host the next African Cup of Nations.

Youth and Sports Minister Mahama Ayariga told Citi News in an exclusive interview that the football governing body saw Ghana as one country with a potential to quickly host the showpiece.

But first, he dropped a strong hint that Morocco will not host the event. "It is only today that I'm hearing of the formal refusal of Morocco to budge on the issue of the date which means that Caf would definitely need to look at an alternate venue."

Based on that, Caf started quickly contacting nations they see fit to step in. "Caf wrote to us a few days ago actually and indicated that Morocco had given strong indications that they will pull out if Caf did not change the date.

"And Caf also indicated that it was firm on those dates but they will meet the Moroccan authorities and take a decision at that meeting. "But in the meantime they are writing to a number of countries that they think have the capacity to be an alternative venue… in the event of Morocco actually pulling out," the minister told Citi Prime News on Thursday.

The minister confirmed the Caf letter came through the Ghana Football Association, and it also said that other countries were being considered.

What will make Ghana host it?

Morocco requested Caf to postpone the tournament which was set for January next year, due to the Ebola epidemic, which Caf has turned a blind eye to.

Ayariga says should Ghana choose to host, there would be two key considerations. "I have been looking at the two key issues involved. One, the cost of hosting it and secondly, the very health issues that is making Morocco to renege on the commitment they made to Caf."

Sources say that such an emergency hosting will cost Ghana about $10 million. But Ghanaians have been voicing immense displeasure at the very prospect of taking the next Afcon, which many see as a poisoned chalice.

Why is Ghana even thinking of Afcon?

Ayariga told Citi Sports' Gary Al-Smith that Ghana's government are sensitive to fears about the country's readiness and will leave nothing to chance. "That is why we are evaluating the request. Guinea is a country that has a problem with Ebola. Morocco hosted Ghana to play Guinea in Casablanca. Guinea came to Ghana and played here yesterday.

"Sierra Leone is a country is a country that has a problem with Ebola and they were also in Cameroon. And so I think that we need to look at it in terms of the health issues and in terms of the financial implications too."

Earlier reports also said that South African Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan is set to meet with the Caf boss Issa Hayatou to discuss a way forward as South Africa is set to replace the North African giants.

Source:supersports

A Review of Television Awards Ghana

TELEVISION AWARDS GHANA FESTIVAL is designed to engage all relevant stakeholders in television broadcasting and set to conduct structured annual awards for deserving television stations, programs, production crew and individuals in the industry. The Project also gives television viewers nationwide an opportunity to interface with their favourite TV Stations and Programs.

The project is being held in partnership with various industry stakeholders including the Ministry of Communications, National Communications Authority, the National Media Commission, Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association among others to establish clear guidelines for Ghana's migration from analog broadcasting to digital terrestrial transmission (DTT). This platform will also serve as an exciting medium to promote approved and trending industry information from the regulatory bodies for the consumption of the general public.

The project implementation strategy for the awards festival captures key inputs of both analog and digital television networks broadcasting in Ghana by enforcing the board directive that television stations shall appoint two members each to serve on the Faculty which decides ultimately on nominations and awards. This exciting platform also creates a healthy interface with the general public as "4 Popular Award Categories" shall be exclusively voted for by television viewers nationwide with The Faculty deciding on the "30 Outstanding Industry and Primetime Award Categories" approved by The Board through a technical peer review electoral college

Review :

The awards show,which was the first of its kind was held at the National Theatre on 10th of October 2014 .MC for the night was a former housemate of Big Brother Africa fame, assisted by a lady. It was beamed live on several television networks across the country. The stage and lighting was not extraordinary

Due to broadcasting time constraints, the nominees who where were earlier on being displayed on the giant screen ,had to be stopped. The MC's assistant, took over the responsibility of mentioning the names of nominees.

Several awards were given, interestingly, almost all the awards had the prefix 'Outstanding' this or that. The repetitive mentioning of 'outstanding' by the Mc started to make the event boring.
There were some musical interludes including a culture dance

The MC, who is also known to be a stand up comedian, occasionally dropped one or two jokes which most of the audience didn't get it, only a few laughed. At times he himself tells them not to worry if they didn't get the joke. Some of the jokes were what are described as 'expensive jokes' , of which he had to make it clear at the of the event its all for fun , nothing personal. He seemed to be 'talking too much' ,which once again he acknowledged.

Some of the award winners took the opportunity to advertise for free their upcoming show. One musician who performed also took the same step to advertise. That was quite opportunistic to do that on tv , wondering if they would be given an invoice to pay for that advert. 
During the tail end of the event, one could not hear the names of the nominees. The award presenters just mentions the winners.

The last award which was the ultimate was a little marred by the person who presented it. In her bid to be 'funny' ,ended up screaming  for the MC's assistant to mention the nominees. The request was never met, was a little embarrassing for that to happen on live tv.

On the whole, the event would be rated 5/10 , just average. Since this is the foremost event, they would be pardoned a little although there is more room for improvement. Lessons would be learnt by the organisers to make the next one better. They were also racing against time because GTv stops transmission at 1am, one could see the way the MC was trying his best to speed up the event. The event actually ended at 1:04 am.

We hope this awards scheme has come to stay and would see a better one next time around

Follow on Twitter @Quabynah

Electricity And Water Tariffs Go Up 9 (Last Time Was July 2014)

The Public Utilities and Regulatory Commission has reviewed upwards, electricity and water tariffs. The cost of electricity has gone up by 6.54 percent while that of water has been increased by 4.54 percent. The Ghana Water Company will, however, not be able to charge the new rates until certain challenges are fixed. The PURC says the marginal increases have been necessitated by the shift to crude oil for generation of power occasioned by erratic gas supply from Nigeria. Public Affairs Director of the PURC, Nana Yaa Gyantuah, said the Commission recognised that electricity consumers, for instance, are spending money on alternative sources of energy anyway, which costs them more. The last time the PURC adjusted utility tariffs was July this year. Electricity tariffs went up by 6.1 percent while water tariffs were increased by 12 percent. Ghanaians are currently enduring, they have been for more than a year now, power and water rationing. Many have expressed frustrations about the development, but the managers of the power systems say there is little they can do under the circumstances. These increases in tariffs are set to annoy many.

Fuel prices could go up soon

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has asked government to strongly consider scrapping subsidies on energy and petroleum products in order to contain the country's ballooning budget deficit.

The recommendation proffered after an IMF team led by Joël Toujas-Bernaté concluded its preliminary discussions with government on a possible intervention by the Bretton-Wood institution, could lead to an increase in energy and fuel prices.

Already, Senyo Hossi, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors- the lobbyist arm of bulk oil dealers- has asked Ghanaians to brace themselves for the fallout of an IMF programme that will eliminate subsidies on fuel products.

Since the year began, prices of petroleum products have been adjusted upwards by four times, which sums up to about 40 percent as a result of the slide in the currency, which has fuelled inflationary pressures.

However, the IMF has observed that due to the untargeted nature of the subsidies, it will be prudent for government to do away with the subsidies through what it called a "front-loaded fiscal consolidation."

Mr. Toujas-Bernaté said: "A more ambitious and front-loaded fiscal consolidation is needed to help place public debt on a sustainable path, and to allow monetary policy to be more effective in bringing down inflation, including by strictly limiting budget deficit financing by the Bank of Ghana.

"Front-loaded adjustment should be realized through reductions in Ghana's comparatively high public sector wage costs, the elimination of costly and untargeted subsidies for energy and petroleum products, and a better prioritization of capital spending."

Ghana's government reintroduced fuel subsidies in April this year, without announcing the action, and since then spent several hundreds of dollars in extra payments.

Ghana, which is a major exporter of oil, gold and cocoa is now struggling with a persistent budget deficit and rising public debt.

According to the Bank of Ghana, as at the second week of September this year, government's total revenue and grants was GH¢13.3 billion as against its expenditure of GH¢19.3 billion.

At the same time, total public sector debt was 55.4 percent of GDP.

Mr. Toujas-Bernaté said there will be further talks on a possible program that could be supported by the IMF will continue at the annual general meetings of the World Bank and IMF in Washington DC in October.

FIFA Presidents

It seems the 'Fifa President' position is one that when you start, you dont want to leave.
Here are a list of the previous FIFA presidents.
-Robert Guerin- France, 1904-06
-Daniel Burley Woolfall- England, 1906-18
-Jules Rimet - France ,1921-54
-Rodolphe Seeldrayers -Belgium, 1954-55
-Arthur Drewry - England, 1955-61
-Stanley Rous - England ,1961-74
-Joao Havelange - Brazil ,1974-98
-Sepp Blatter - Switzerland ,1998-present

Teaching In Local Languages in Ghana

The Education Minister of Ghana has asked heads and teachers of basic schools to desist from the use of the English language as the sole medium of instruction in the classrooms.

Sounds logical, since when concepts are explained in a language you properly understand, your chances of grasping it are very higher compared to the vice versa

My #OddQuestion is,  what local language can be added to the English for instruction since a typical class would not have all the students speaking one local language? Or students speaking same local language are now going to be grouped so that the teacher can use both English and local languages?

 

There are about 9 govt sponsored languages in Ghana (see below)

 

1.   AKAN (Ashanti, Fante, Akuapem, Akyem, Kwahu) (Written Twi)

2.   DAGAARE / WAALE Spoken in Upper Western Region (UWR)

3.   DANGBE                            "        Greater Accra.(G/A)          

4.   DAGBANE                          "         Northern Region (NR)

5.   EWE                                   "        Volta Region (VR)

6.   GA                                      "         Greater Accra Region (G/A)

7.   GONJA                                "         Northern Region (NR)

8.   KASEM                               "         Upper Eastern Region (UER)

9.   NZEMA                                "         Western Region (WR)

 

There are also over 20 non-govt sponsored local languages.

 

Assuming the nine (9) languages above are to be used, does it mean there would be 9 teachers for each class level? Example, Class 1   AKAN, DAGAARE / WAALE , DANGBE,

DAGBANE,EWE,GA,GONJA ,  KASEM , NZEMA , since its possible to have all these languages spoken by students at one class level

It’s a good thought; maybe the ministry should come together with the school heads on how this 'instruction' would be implemented with the students not feeling segregated. 

to be continued ....

Teaching In Local Languages in Ghana

The Education Minister of Ghana has asked heads and teachers of basic schools to desist from the use of the English language as the sole medium of instruction in the classrooms.

Sounds logical, since when concepts are explained in a language you properly understand, your chances of grasping it are very higher compared to the vice versa

My #OddQuestion is,  what local language can be added to the English for instruction since a typical class would not have all the students speaking one local language? Or students speaking same local language are now going to be grouped so that the teacher can use both English and local languages?

 

There are about 9 govt sponsored languages in Ghana (see below)

 

1.   AKAN (Ashanti, Fante, Akuapem, Akyem, Kwahu) (Written Twi)

2.   DAGAARE / WAALE Spoken in Upper Western Region (UWR)

3.   DANGBE                            "        Greater Accra.(G/A)          

4.   DAGBANE                          "         Northern Region (NR)

5.   EWE                                   "        Volta Region (VR)

6.   GA                                      "         Greater Accra Region (G/A)

7.   GONJA                                "         Northern Region (NR)

8.   KASEM                               "         Upper Eastern Region (UER)

9.   NZEMA                                "         Western Region (WR)

 

There are also over 20 non-govt sponsored local languages.

 

Assuming the nine (9) languages above are to be used, does it mean there would be 9 teachers for each class level? Example, Class 1   AKAN, DAGAARE / WAALE , DANGBE,

DAGBANE,EWE,GA,GONJA ,  KASEM , NZEMA , since its possible to have all these languages spoken by students at one class level

It’s a good thought; maybe the ministry should come together with the school heads on how this 'instruction' would be implemented with the students not feeling segregated. 

to be continued ....

Positive Path Forward

Acting with arrogance toward others does not add any positive value to your life. Being spiteful does not bring you any lasting sense of fulfillment.

It is completely understandable to be frustrated and angered by the words and actions of others. Yet the answer is not to add to the existing negativity with more negativity of your own.

Imagine taking the high road. Imagine putting your energy into positive pursuits instead of into negative reactions.

Your life is too precious to spend even a few moments of it consumed with hatred or arrogance or other kinds of negativity. For the sake of your own well being, turn your attention toward the good and beneficial things you can think and do.

Take the time to consider what adds value to your life and your world, and what takes that value away. Then commit yourself to living in such a way that adds more value.

Each moment is filled with countless possibilities, so choose the very best ones. Instead of getting mired in negativity, lift yourself higher by taking the most positive path forward.

Keep the goal in sight

When the goal is in sight, you're much more highly motivated to work toward it. So no matter how far away the goal is, keep it in sight and keep moving enthusiastically toward it.

When you can see that you're making progress, you are naturally encouraged to make more progress. So as you move forward, remind yourself how far you've come, and keep on going.

Nothing can take the place of a clear and meaningful purpose. So give yourself the energy to achieve by knowing exactly where you wish to go and why you want to get there.

Feel the achievement and the rewards that come with it as you work steadily toward it. Keep your vision focused on the goal as you move ever closer to that goal.

Effort becomes effortless and energy becomes far more abundant when you see the objective getting closer and closer. Make use of the power of your dream to make that dream come true.

Get the goal in sight and keep it there as you enjoy your own effective effort to move forward. Keep the goal in sight, no matter what, and achievement is yours.

Follow @Quabynah

Ebola Prevention Tips

1. Wash your hands regularly, both front and back up to your elbow.

2. Use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol as often as possible when water is not available.

3. Do NOT eat any kind of wild game or bush meat, most especially bats, monkeys, gorillas, forest antelope and porcupines.

4. Watch where you eat and don't eat meat unless you're sure of the source.

5. Whatever animal products you consume should be cooked thoroughly.

6. Avoid sharing clothes with strangers.

7. Watch out for symptoms of Ebola around your neighbourhood.

8. Avoid areas where an outbreak has been reported.

9. Report any unauthorized movement of corpses in your area especially those brought in from abroad.

10. Don't touch or go near anyone who has been confirmed to have Ebola and if you absolutely must, then wear protective gear.

Arm yourself with adequate information about Ebola and avoid spreading rumours that will cause fear and panic. Information is key and knowledge is power. Protect Yourself.

Ashaiman GCB burgled

A branch of the Ghana Commercial bank (GCB) at Ashaiman was last Thursday raided by some unidentified armed robbers, who entered the bank through the roof.

Nobody has been apprehended in connection with the incident.

The suspects were said to have entered the bank, near the main Ashaiman lorry terminal through the roof, but preliminary investigations revealed that no money was stolen.

Owing to the situation, management of the bank has suspended operations until Monday to enable the bank officials to access the situation and carry out some maintenance work.

Sources at the bank told DAILY GUIDE that the incident occurred at midnight.

According to reports, the suspects scaled the fence wall and climb the bank's mast, which was situated behind the building, to gain access to the roof of the building.

They removed the roof of the building, which is made up of concrete slabs.

The suspects, according to reports, entered the strong room where the chunk of money was kept after the day.

They could not break the safe and escaped after ransacking the banking hall.

Superintendent William Daah, Divisional Crime Officer in Ashaiman, when contacted by DAILY GUIDE, confirmed the break-in and explained that police had commenced investigations into the matter to arrest the perpetrators of the crime.

According to him, preliminary investigations revealed that no money was stolen, but the police have asked officials of the financial institution to conduct further checks in the building

U20 Fifa WWC : Ghana vs Korea DPR

Korea DPR have put one foot in the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup with a Ri Un-Sim-inspired 3-0 win over Ghana in Toronto. The North Korean No10 scored twice to cap a fine performance that could yet see her team through to the last eight by the end of the night if Canada fail to beat Finland.

Opening-day victories had left both teams knowing that another win would all but secure their place in the knockout phase and, from the offset, Korea DPR always looked more likely to secure it. Indeed, it took them just six minutes to take the lead, and the goal was all down the improvisation of Ri.

Right-back Song Kyong-Hui had done well with a positive overlapping run and cross, but the ball arrived at an awkward height for the team's talisman. Undeterred, Ri simply adjusted her body, stooping low on the six-yard line to direct a a delicate header in off the far post.

An unusual early substitution followed, with the referee picking up a knee injury and making way for her fourth official, but the pattern of the game remained unaltered. Ghana could have found themselves further behind, in fact, had it not been for keeper Victoria Agyei saving well with her legs on two occasions, first from Ri Hyang-Sim and then from Song.

Ri remained the North Koreans' most likely source of a goal though, and with 66 minutes played she came within millimetres of doubling hers and her team's tally. Rising to meet another cross from the right, she again sent a header towards goal only to see the ball rebound off he underside of the crossbar and be scrambled to safety.

The Korea DPR star would not be denied, though, and with 12 minutes remaining she got her second goal, glancing into the empty net after nipping in ahead of Agyei to meet an outswinging free-kick from Jon So-Yon. And there was still time for the North Koreans to add a little sparkle to the scoreline.

The opportunity to do so arrived in stoppage time when Agyei missed the ball with a wild attempted clearance and caught Ri Kyong-Hang on the neck. A penalty was the inevitable the consequence, and though Agyei guessed right, Jo Son-Yon's spot kick was accurate and powerful enough to leave her with no chance of keeping it out.

Ghanaian Fans Granted Asylum In Brazil

The Ghanaian fans seeking asylum in Brazil after the 2014 World Cup have been granted an initial one-year stay in the country.

The over 200 Ghanaian supporters applied for asylum in Brazil under the reported pretext of a religious conflict in the West African state after Ghana's first round exit from the World Cup.

Ghana's Sports Ministry is yet to get a response from the findings expected to be made through investigations to be carried out by the Ghanaian embassy in Brazil.

The asylum seekers have however been granted an initial one-year permit by Brazilian authorities to stay and work in their country.

Some of the supporters have even filtered into neighboring countries such as Argentina and Ecuador with others making their way north to the USA.

"We didn't tell Brazilian authorities that there was conflict in Ghana and for that they should grant us asylum," one of the granted asylum seekers Hamidu Ahmed told Asempa FM.

"Each and every one of us came here with his own reason which is definitely not a conflict situation.

"We have received our papers and some of us have already started working. Some of us work in industries and others work in the construction sector.

"Some have however left into neighboring Argentina, Ecuador and the likes. Others are also traveling by road to the USA."

Work On It

Stop taking refuge in the promise of quick fixes or the familiarity of worn-out excuses. Make the effort, do the work, and fulfill your best possibilities.

Even if you can't get it perfect, work on it. Even if you can't get it all done right away, work on it.

Work on it with commitment and persistence. You know you're capable of creating new, worthwhile, meaningful value, so do what you know you can do.

This day is a unique opportunity that you'll only get once. Work on it, and lock in the value of that opportunity while you can.

Don't sacrifice the chance to make a lasting difference for a little fleeting, momentary pleasure. Persist, focus, do the work and enjoy the far greater pleasure of a job well done.

Life will get even better when you work on it. Use the powerful opportunity of this day to do just that.

Follow me on Twitter @Quabynah

Ghana Turns To IMF For Help

Ghana will turn to the International Monetary Fund for help after the west African country's currency plunged roughly 40 per cent this year against the dollar, making the cedi the worst performing currency in the world in 2014.

The opening of conversations with the IMF about a rescue is a volte-face for John Mahama, Ghana's president, who has long insisted his country would resolve the economic crisis using homegrown solutions.

Ghana is the second sub-Saharan African country to turn to the IMF for help so far this year, after Zambia announced in June it was seeking talks with the Washington-based multilateral body.

Seth Terkper, Ghana's finance minister, said Mr Mahama had "directed to open discussion with the IMF" to support Ghana's growth programme. Speaking to the FT, Mr Terkper said the most immediate concern was to "to stabilise the cedi and reduce the [fiscal] deficit".

The Ghanian currency has plunged to 3.7 cedi per US dollar, down from 1.9 in January 2013, beating even the war-ravaged Ukrainian hryvnia and the Syrian pound.

Nearly three years after the start of oil production, which was meant to further strengthen the country's fiscal position, the public purse is looking empty. Ghana is battling a double-digit fiscal deficit after a 75 per cent increase in public salaries over two years. Inflation is rising rapidly as the cedi plunges.

Ghana ran a fiscal deficit equal to 10.1 per cent of gross domestic product in 2013. The government has promised to lower the deficit to 8.5 per cent this year, but observers believe it would struggled to reduce it below 10 per cent.

In its annual review of the Ghanaian economy, the IMF in May warned that under current policies, the fiscal deficit would stay at about 10.2 per cent this year and 9.3 per cent in 2015, far below the official target.

"We would like to have a complementary plan with the World Bank and the African Development Bank [on top of the IMF programme] to achieve our objective to become an upper middle-income economy," Mr Terkper said.

The Ghanaian request of a bail out is likely to shake some investors, as Ghana was seen as a model of economic and political development in the continent. In 2007, Ghana become the first country in sub Saharan Africa – with the exception of South Africa – to tap the sovereign bond market, raising $750m through a 10-year bond.

The country has this year repeatedly postponed a return to the hard currency sovereign bond market. But Mr Terkper said that Ghana was still planning to issue a $1bn, 10-year bond in the next few weeks. "The market will take a better view of our policies when we are talking with IMF. Hopefully, the market and development partners will have more confidence," he said.

The financial concerns have put pressure on the government of President Mahama, which stands accused by the opposition of mishandling the economy. Mahama's party, the National Democratic Congress, introduced a new public sector salary structure in 2010 designed to motivate workers and improve service delivery. The government's wage bill consumes roughly 70 per cent of the country's tax revenue.
 

Forbes on Ghana

"Ghana has the world's largest manmade lake and the 1-gigawatt Aksombo Hydroelectric Plant, built to supply electricity to Africa's largest aluminum smelter. But the smelter has been idle since 2009, a casualty of low aluminum prices and persistent electricity shortages that have forced the government to divert the power elsewhere.

Ghana is a typical example of the world's worst-managed economies: It's a country that shouldn't be poor, but it is. The West African nation's gross domestic product per capita fell 9% last year to $621, ranking it 154th out of 184 countries tracked by the International Monetary Fund, below resource-impoverished Haiti. With a $3 billion trade deficit last year and $4.9 billion in external debt, Ghana is struggling to pay its bills even as it sits on some of the world's biggest reserves of gold and bauxite, as well as considerable amounts of offshore oil, which is being developed by Anadarko Petroleum and others.

"Ghana's problems are mostly homegrown," said Peter Allum, the IMF's mission chief to Ghana, in February. Forbes ranks Ghana ninth on our list of the world's worst economies."

Consider Letting It Go

If you're filled with resentment or frustration, you're wasting your precious time and energy. The more quickly you can let the bad stuff go, the more quickly you can move on to the good stuff.

People and events will regularly cause delays, inconveniences, expenses, disappointments and worse in your life. Don't add to the damages by letting those things keep you down.

When people have wronged you or events have sidetracked you, you have plenty of great reasons for complaints and excuses. But complaints and excuses don't provide anything of value to your life.

Although whatever has happened to you may be highly unfair, wrong and inconsiderate, consider letting it go. For your own sake, consider letting it go.

Instead of giving others the power to get you down, give yourself the power to move forward. Instead of being content to collect those complaints and excuses, enjoy the freedom and satisfaction of making life positive and fulfilling no matter what.

Make the choice to live with joy, intention and purpose rather than with anger and resentment. Free yourself from the world's negativity by choosing to look ahead, to live ahead, and to get ahead.

Follow Me on Twitter @Quabynah

KNUST : Fire guts sections of Unity Hall

Fire Wednesday gutted portions of the sixth floor of the eight-storey Unity Hall at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi. Ten rooms and their contents were burnt to ashes. The cause of the fire is not yet known. The ingenuity and professionalism of officials of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) prevented the inferno from the spreading to other portions of the building. Students are on vacation but the portions of the floor, including the gutted rooms were being occupied by guests from Kuapaa Kooko Limited, a farmer group that was going to hold a three-day annual general meeting on the campus

Govt Agrees to Privatize ECG

Government has undertaken to privatize the Electricity Corporation of Ghana (ECG) as part of a condition to access the second compact of the Millennium Challenge Account worth over $500 million.

It has also undertaken to adjust electricity tariffs every quarter as condition precedent for the disbursement of the fund.

These were contained in a Memorandum dated July 16 2014 and signed by Dr Ahmed Moustapha in which "The President has granted Executive Approval for the Second Compact of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) operated by the Millennium Development Authority (MiDA) of an amount of Five Hundred and Thirty-Five Million, Five Hundred and Sixty-Five Thousand United States Dollars (US$535,565,000.00) from the United States of America (USA) to be laid before Parliament."

The memorandum, a copy of which was intercepted by Myjoyonline.com, was approved by Parliament on the final day of its sittings before it rose on July 18, 2014.

The second compact of the MCC has "the ECG Financial and Operational Turnaround Project" as one of six major projects to be undertaken with the fund.

As part of conditions for the funds to be released for the execution of the ECG Turnaround project, there must be;

"Evidence of the Government's intent to proceed with an Acceptable ECG Private Sector Participation (PSP) Transaction, in a form and substance acceptable to MCC."

It must also show "evidence of approval and implementation of quarterly tariff adjustments in accordance with formula that became effective prior to the initial CIF Disbursement," the memorandum stated.

Under the current dispensation ECG is a limited liability company wholly owned by the government of Ghana and operating under the Ministry of Energy but with the approval of this memorandum first by the president and now by Parliament that status will change.

It is not clear yet in what form or substance the private sector intervention in the electricity sector would take.

But even before the policy would be rolled out, Head of Communications of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP), Nii Armah Akomfrah said his party would resist any form of privatisation of the sector.

He said the penchant by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) led governments to sell off state assets is unacceptable.

On Joy FM's Newsfile programme, the government critic said his party would mobilise the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and other pressure groups to kick against the policy approved by Parliament.

Ebola Virus: What Should Know

The Ebola Virus is spreading rapidly across West Africa and has caused over 600 deaths since the first reported case in February.


1) Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever, is a severe, often fatal illness in humans.



2) EVD outbreaks have a case fatality rate of up to 90% meaning9 out of 10 people who contract the disease are likely to die

3) The virus is transmitted to people from wild animals and spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission.

4) Ebola can be contracted through direct contact (through broken skin or mucous membranes) with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people including semen and vaginal fluid.

5) Contact with the corpse of a diseased person can also lead to infection with the virus.

6) The symptoms of Ebola include fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat.

7) The incubation period, that is, the time interval from infection with the virus to onset of symptoms, is 2 to 21 days

8) Suspicious wild life aka Bush meat should be avoided as much as possible and animal products to be consumed should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

9) Regular hand washing is advisable to avoid picking up germs. Use soap and water, or alcohol-based hand rubs containing at least 60 percent alcohol

10) Be aware. Get as much information as you can about Ebola. Protect yourself and your family. Prevention is better than cure.

Good Things You Deserve

Living richly isn't just for someone else. You deserve a life that's filled with richness and joy, and you deserve to be the person who makes it happen.

Good fortune isn't just for someone else. You deserve to have good fortune, and you deserve the experience of creating that good fortune with your attitude and your efforts.

You deserve to have a lucky break. So get busy and do what it takes to give yourself one.

Let today be the day you stop waiting for something good to come along. Get up, get going, and make something good, valuable and meaningful out of what you already have.

Go ahead and give yourself all the good things you deserve. Feel how great it feels to be positive, focused, helpful, compassionate, caring, productive and joyful.

You deserve the best in life precisely because you're fully capable of making it happen. Your opportunity to live richly is here and now, so put it to outstanding use without another moment's delay.

GAME Locked:Workers on Strike

Hundreds of shoppers who turned up at the Game shop at the Accra Mall were left stranded due to a declared strike by the workers.

The workers are protesting management's failure to increase their salaries in the last 14 months.

Speaking to Citi News, the Vice Chairman of the Accra Mall Workers Union, which is also affiliated to the Ghana Federation of Labour, Nana Ofori, described management's attitude towards the workers as "inhuman."

He accused management of Game of only increasing the salaries of top management by 10 percent while neglecting the lower ranks.

"We currently have all the staff outside and the main aim is to show our displeasure towards management for not appreciating our hard work over a period of 14 months…"

"While management has received 10 percent increment last year from July, we have not gotten anything up till now," he said.

Mr. Ofori stated that efforts to engage management in a negotiation had proved futile.

"We are trying to engage the manager in a negotiation, which he is unwilling to talk about."

He therefore stated that workers would continue with their demonstration until people know the reality on the ground.

"We have our own problems and fortunately or unfortunately it has happened on a day that Organised Labour is demonstrating and showing its displeasure towards government. Tomorrow we are continuing. As to when it is going to end, I am not in the position to say that," he stated.
 



 

Earth tremor causes panic in parts of Accra

An earth tremor hit parts of Accra on Thursday night with residents of Bortianor and neighbouring communities confirming they felt the earth move.

The Earth tremor which occurred around 8pm lasted for about six seconds.

 Residents said though the earth tremor  is not new, last night's  vibrations were  of a higher magnitude.

Meanwhile the Chief Executive Officer of Development Geo-Information Service (DeGEOSERV), Prof. Emmanuel Amamoo-Otchere is cautioning residents in the affected areas to either relocate or take steps to protect their buildings against earth tremors.

He explained that even though the situation may not be frightening currently, the magnitude could increase and cause major destruction to life and properties in earthquake prone zones.

Records indicate that in 1615,  earthquakes occurred in Ghana with magnitude greater than 6.0 on the Richter Scale.

The last three major earthquakes occurred in Ghana in 1862, 1906 and 1939. The 1862 Accra earthquake with a magnitude 6.5 on the Richter Scale killed three people and caused considerable damage.

The Osu Castle was destroyed. The effects of this earthquake were felt in Togo and in Benin. Two magnitude 4.6 and 4.9 seismic events occurred in Accra in 1871 and 1872.

The epicenter of the 1906 earthquake was near Ho collapsing buildings and causing severe damage.

The June 1939 magnitude 6.5 earthquake was the most destructive in Ghana's history causing $67.3 million damage.

This seismic event lasted about thirty seconds and killed seventeen people and injured about one hundred and forty. Its intensity centered on James Town.

If the same force quake hits Accra today, the consequences will be unimaginable.

Between 1964 and 1997 various minor tremors shook Ghana. The effects of two tremors that occurred in 1997 were felt in all the regions.

 

By: Raymond Acquah/citifmonline.com/Ghana

  

 

 

 

 

Libyan Government to enhance security as 90% of planes at international airport are destroyed

90 percent of the planes parked at the Libyan Tripoli international airport, including a commercial plane are among the facilities hit by Sunday clashes around the Libyan international airport. This is according to Government spokesman Ahmed Lamine, who on Tuesday this week, added that the government was considering bringing in international help to boost security.

A control tower is also said to have been hit by attackers, who now include rival militias fighting to secure the transport hub. According to reports, Stability and Security Force militia group was targeting to seize the airport from control of Zintan rebel group from northwestern Libya. The latter has controlled the facility since Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi was ousted in 2011.

Several Grad rockets are said to have landed on the airport facilities. The airport has since been closed.

Amidst poor security situation in Libya, the Libyan Arab Airlines said the crew of a damaged plane owned by Afriqiyah Airlines, its sister carrier, will now be operating from Misrata after its transfer from the international airport. International flights will be managed from the Misrata airpor

See The Bright Future

What has happened before has brought you to where you are. Yet the past has no control over where you can go from here.

Your past history does not create your future. The choices you make right now are what create the substance of that future.

Learn from your mistakes, but do not agonize over them. There is nothing you can do to change the fact that they happened, yet there is much you can do to move positively beyond them.

When you dwell on the past it holds you prisoner. When you let it go, that allows you to go anywhere you now choose.

People change, circumstances change, and you can change too. With each moment comes the opportunity to shake off the old assumptions and limitations, to give new purpose and meaning to life.

Give new energy, new effort, new commitment and determination to this day that you have the good fortune to be living. See the bright future that can be, and you will make it so.

Via Greatday

Businesses dey Ghana ooo

Positive Difference

Just because conditions are extremely challenging, doesn't mean you have to be negative about them. You have an opportunity to make a positive difference, and the best way to do that is to be the positive difference.

Let your attitude be based on the best possibilities, rather than dictated by the worst problems. When things are not they way you'd like them to be, then be completely different than the way things are.

Take it upon yourself to be the positive difference. Focus your energy on forging your way forward, and make the choice to take everything else in stride.

Be the difference, see a better world, and work to bring that better world to life. Be the difference, and make the positive difference that you're here to make.

Follow Me on Twitter @Quabynah

How World Cup Money Will Be Distrubuted: Germany To Get $35m

To the victors go the spoils and 1 percent of FIFA's 2014 World Cup revenue.

After Germany defeated Argentina in extra time of the final of the World Cup, not only did it get to hoist an 18-carat trophy, but it also hauled off a cool $35 million.

It’s fitting that the largest prize in World Cup history was distributed in the most expensive World Cup in history. Spain, winner of the 2010 World Cup, received $30 million.

That money is the only thing Germany gets to keep (except for bragging rights) since the expensive trophy stays with FIFA and teams are given a cheaper replica.

Argentina received $25 million as the runner-up, which is up from $24 million in 2010. The Netherlands earned $20 million for finishing third and Brazil earned $18 million for fourth place.

The United States earned $9 million for making it to the Round of 16. That money will go to each country’s soccer federation and it is at the discretion of each nation how to dole out the winnings.

That prize money is in addition to the $1.5 million each nation was given prior to the tournament for training, travel and other expenses. FIFA also has a pool $70 million to pay to the various clubs that employ the 736 club players in the tournament, which works out to $2,800 per player per day that the player was in the World Cup.

Here’s a look at the prize money distribution for the 2014 FIFA World Cup:

Group Stage (16 eliminated teams): $8 million each
Round of 16 (eight losers): $9 million each
Quarterfinals (four losers): $14 million each
Fourth place: $18 million
Third place:: $20 million
Runner-up: $24 million
Winner: $35 million

If it sounds like a lot of money is being dished out for the five-week tournament, it pales in comparison to what FIFA stands to make, which could be upwards of $4.5 billion thanks to broadcasting revenue, licensing, sponsorships and hospitality.

It’s also just a drop in the bucket for players such as Lionel Messi, who just inked a deal with Barcelona for more than $50 million per year.

It’s unclear how much Brazil, the host country, will take away in addition to its prize money, but it won’t be nearly as much as FIFA’s windfall and won’t come close to covering the estimated $14 billion in costs to build and renovate 12 stadiums, upgrade the country's infrastructure and pay for security.

And there’s probably not enough money in the world to make the country feel better about its last two games, which the Brazilians lost by a combined 10-1.

Follow on Twitter @Quabynah

Ghana: Transport fares up by 15%

Transport operators have announced a 15% increment in fares with effect from Monday July 14.

The new fare announced on Saturday, was reached after consultations between the Transport Ministry and the transport operators represented by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC).

A joint statement to that effect was issued by the General Secretaries of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), Stephen K. Okudzeto and Alhaji Aliu Baba respectively.

The releases noted the new transport fares cover intra-city (Trotro), inter-city (Long Distance) as well as Taxi Cabs.
 

World Cup 2014: Brazil vs Germany

World Cup 2014: Brazil vs Germany:

Quotes from Ghana soccer fans on social media
Bebeto, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Kaka, Cafu, Romario, Captain Dunga and of course Pele are all like WTF IS GWANZON!!!

Please no additional time...it's way past the Brazillian bedtime...:-(

REQUEST TIME.....Pls call the German coach to request a goal for your love ones

Can they stop the match already before the Germans spell #AppearanceFee with goals???

Pls pls pls. Enough with the disgrace. ..aaahhhba.
Brazil Animguase33333 Parrrrrt 1 annnnnnd 2

I remember Germany won by 8 goals to nil in 2006 against Saudi Arabia....... Part 2 in da makingggg

Ooooooh Brazil what a shock

I can't believe my eyes ,7 paaa eeiii Brazil
I said it. B.R.A.Z.U.C.A. correctly spelt by the German Machine. Spelling  100% complete. NEYMAR JR spelling in progress..... 43% complete.

FIFA pls stop d game b4 Germany score10 wai,ooooooo,ghana do wel paaa 2 play draw wit Germany.

Respect to Coach Akwasi Appiah. The Germans didn't find it easy with the Blackstars.

We whipped Saudi Arabia 8-0 in 2002, lets see if we can equal or break that record . Haha
And some dreamers said this team were favorites to win the world cup. Anokwa

#OddThoughts : Black Stars Money Transfer to Ghana

#OddThoughts : Black Stars Money Transfer to Ghana .

I've heard stories of the Ghana Black  Stars having issues with regards to bringing back the USD currency to Ghana , which was flown to them days ago in Brazil from Ghana .

After insisting on having the money in cash (which didn't make sense),taking it out of Brazil is their headache now.

Option 1 : each person should find  people among the fans and GFA officials and give them $10k each so that they bring it to Ghana for them .heard lots of fans and GFA officials ( was not there so cant confirm) were there.

Option 2: they should give the money to the Ghana ambassador ,not the entertainers , so that it is transferred later to them since they have little time to open individual accounts (transferring the appearance fee into banks accounts is  what should have been done in the first place,not physical cash)

Option 3: give some of the money to a charity in Brazil , then bring $10k

Option 4: Pay the tax required and bring the money. They can still chill in Ghana with $83k left , the exchange rates will favour them.

Option 5: blow $90k of the cash on high class fashion,then come back with $10k

Watch out for more options

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@Quabynah

World Cup 2014: Muntari, Boateng sacked from Ghana camp

Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah has expelled midfielders Sulley Muntari and Kevin-Prince Boateng from the Black Stars camp ahead of their must-win game against Portugal on Thursday. The two were said to have fought two days ago during training and after Appiah intervened it ensued in altercation between him and the Schalke midfielder. Muntari is also reported to have slapped a Black Stars management committee member Moses Parker during a crisis meeting over the unpaid appearance fee. The decision to banish the duo from camp was arrived at in a management meeting on Thursday at the team’s hotel. The two have since left the team’s hotel and will not be part of the World Cup campaign should Ghana progress to the knockout stage. Ghana have dominated the headlines over the past 24 hours as issue of appearance fee row hit camp ahead of their trip to Brasilia to face Portugal. Source : goal.com

World Cup 2014: Government's $3m Cash Arrive In Brasilia For Black Stars' Players

The much awaited $3 million cash appearance fee meant for the Black Stars players has safely arrived in the Brazilian city of Brasilia where the Black Stars are scheduled to play Portugal in their last group G game, Ghanasportsonline can confirm. The $3 million cash arrived in a presidential jet at around 9pm Brazilian time (12pm GMT) The government’s action was necessitated by a player revolt over the non-payment of their appearance fees ahead of the team’s departure for Brasilia. It took a timely presidential intervention for the players to eventually agree to board the team’s bus to the airport for Brasilia. The arrival of the money is a delivery of the President’s promise to the playing body Deputy sports Minister Joseph Yamin earlier denied rumours that the monies were not available and that had led to the delay. “The money was mobilised but a chartered flight to take the money to Brazil is what has delayed the money up until now.” The deputy Minister said

Source: Ghanasportsonline.com

Musculoskeletal Pain Affects Young Musicians.

Students who play musical instruments may be more likely to experience musculoskeletal problems than their peers. Neck pain (60.4%), wrist pain (44.4%), upper back pain (41.7%), and lower back pain (38.2%) were the most common musculoskeletal complaints among a group of 225 adolescent musicians. Because the probability of developing pain symptoms increases with each additional year a student plays, the authors of the study recommend preventative treatments to protect young musicians' necks, wrists, and backs. 
Medical Problems of Performing Artists, June 2014

Electricity And Water Tariffs Go Up 12 And 6.1 %

The Public Utilities and Regulatory Commission has increased water and electricity tariffs for the third quarter of the year. The move, which according to the Commission was in line with the automatic adjustment formula, will see a 12 per cent increase in electricity and 6.1 per cent in water for the next quarter beginning July 2014. The PURC had initially proposed a 31 per cent increase in electricity and 14 per cent in water but the commissioners after meeting Wednesday morning on the proposal decided to review it downward same as what was increased for the second quarter. The tariffs went up 12 per cent for electricity and 6.1 per cent for water at the beginning of the second quarter in April 2014. Under the automatic adjustment formula the commissioners have the option to exercise the decision variable which empowers them to maintain the prevailing tariff or review it. The commissioners after their meeting Wednesday in Accra therefore decided to review the proposed increment downward to the same level as what was increased in the second quarter. Earlier the Director of Public Affairs, Nana Yaa Jantuah, had asked consumers to expect an increment beginning July 2014.

Source: Daily Graphic

Reasons to succeed

Surround yourself with reminders of the reasons you have chosen to do the work you do. Keep the thoughts of those reasons foremost in your mind.

Achievement never happens for its own sake. Achievement is built when there are solid, meaningful reasons behind it.

The only enduring impediment to success is the lack of a reason for that success. Connect with a good reason, keep that connection strong, and you will find your way through whatever challenges you encounter.

When you have a reason, you have a stake in the outcome. When you have a reason, you're able to summon the discipline, commitment, persistence and creativity necessary to get the job done.

The best motivation is not to be found in some sophisticated secret technique or procedure. The best motivation is to constantly keep yourself in contact with your reasons.

Give yourself plenty of reasons to succeed. And you most assuredly will.

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@Quabynah

Ghana FA president Kwesi Nyantakyi to sue Daily Telegraph

Ghana Football Association president Kwesi Nyantakyi is to sue the Daily Telegraph newspaper over its claim he agreed for the national team to play in matches others were preparing to fix.

The allegations came after a joint undercover investigation by the paper and Channel 4 programme Dispatches.

Nyantakyi told BBC World Service "the contents of the publication are not wholly true".

The GFA has also called in the police to investigate the allegations.

Nyantakyi told BBC Sport he has sent a seven-page response to both parties and is also considering taking legal action against the Channel 4 show.

The undercover investigation identified two people, one a licensed agent of world governing body Fifa and the other a Ghana club official, who allegedly said they could fix friendly matches involving the national side, who are currently involved in the World Cup.

None of the claims involve matches at the World Cup. The report claimed that Nyantakyi had agreed for Ghana to play in two proposed matches after the World Cup.

"I have not agreed to any match-fixing deal involving the GFA," he said.

"I was given a draft contract which I indicated to their agent that I hadn't read and I also had some issues with it and so it will be premature for anybody to say the GFA is at fault."

When news of the investigation first broke on Sunday, the GFA issued a statement saying it had called in the police to investigate two people for misrepresentation.

A statement from the GFA said: "The Ghana Football Association has requested the Ghana Police Service to investigate two persons for misrepresenting the GFA with an attempt to defraud.

"The two were also allegedly filmed claiming that they would bribe GFA officials to ensure that the contract is signed.

"We wish to state that the GFA did not sign the contract as we waited for the response from the legal committee and that the two gentlemen did not make such corrupt offers to the GFA or its officials.

"We wish to assure the public that we will not tolerate such misrepresentations and we will seek strong sanctions against such individuals if such claims are found to be true."

The GFA added the matter had been reported to Fifa and the Confederation of African Football.

Ghana have drawn with Germany and lost to the United States so far at the World Cup but could still qualify from Group G if they beat Portugal on 26 June.