News Desk || Cecilia Dapaah's Resignation: Akufo-Addo expected to appoint a new Sanitation Minister
Get the latest scoop on Ghana's Mid-Morning news and stay informed about the latest events and happenings in and around the country covering a wide range of topics, including current affairs, news updates, and other important matters.
#NewsDesk
#MyJoyOnline
https://www.myjoyonline.com/ghana-news/
Subscribe for more videos just like this:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChd1DEecCRlxaa0-hvPACCw/
Follow us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joy997fm
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Joy997FM
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3J2l57
Click this for more news:
https://www.myjoyonline.com/
#NewsDesk
#MyJoyOnline
https://www.myjoyonline.com/ghana-news/
Subscribe for more videos just like this:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChd1DEecCRlxaa0-hvPACCw/
Follow us on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joy997fm
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Joy997FM
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3J2l57
Click this for more news:
https://www.myjoyonline.com/
Transcript
00:00 Hello, good morning. Welcome to join you. That's great coming to you live from my studios in cook. I'm gonna be coming up this morning
00:05 Your integrity will be established. That's according to President echo for ado as he accepts sanitation ministers
00:12 resignation or probe into those comments by the
00:17 President and also find out whether Cecilia that passed the resignation exonerates her from any wrongdoing
00:25 Also this morning beginning August all babies born in Ghana would be issued with Ghana card numbers as well as their birth certificate
00:32 identification numbers
00:35 The work has been completed in the test
00:38 And the full test was done yesterday and I'm happy to say that the first baby
00:43 Well, I've got a card number was issued yesterday
00:46 We have more as he announces that the first Ghana card for baby has been issued
00:53 Last
00:55 Farmers in Kare and Gogo and the talents a district of the Upper East region are calling on government to all
01:03 Contractors back to fix their one village one down
01:07 My name is I should bring him or coming to you live also on Facebook YouTube Instagram and Twitter
01:14 Joining us on TV. My personal handle is a banana. I shall please stay for details
01:20 You
01:22 President echo fordo is expected to appoint a new sanitation minister as a
01:46 replacement for Cecilia banana power this follows the resignation of the latter hours when news broke that her house held a
01:54 Stolen cash worth over 1 million dollars, which she had stashed in her ability
01:59 residents in his acceptance comments to the former sanitation minister the president said he believes the integrity of the
02:07 Madame Cecilia da pa will be established
02:10 Well anti-corruption campaigners have since described the comments as feeding into the perception that the president is a clearing agent for his
02:18 appointees perceived to be engaged in corrupt act
02:22 Particularly at a time when the public servant is in question is yet to face an illegal institution or body for investigations
02:29 In addition Cecilia da pa has resigned and has assured her preparedness to reveal herself for any public inquiry
02:37 Here on news a desk will ask that's just put the matter to rest
02:41 What extent that's the president's comment influence in your future probe into the saga professor?
02:48 But for Jim and Rhea is former UN advisor on governance. He joins us with more proof
02:54 I'm grateful for your time. Let me first find out from you. That's her resignation put the matter to rest
03:06 He booked all kinds of sentiments
03:09 regarding the way our
03:12 service have been managed over the years by
03:14 government and this particular case
03:17 I think is the final opportunity my humble view for government for the present particular
03:24 To highlight the need for public officers. We could have the best
03:30 conduct on their in office and I think
03:33 The resignation is the right thing the minister took the right step and I personally like the idea and
03:41 commend her for
03:42 offering to cooperate
03:44 With agencies that may be investigating this particular case
03:48 so I think we have a long way to go for her to establish her credibility to regain her integrity and
03:55 Then that's who put the matter to rest on children. But this is our concluded. I don't think
04:02 This is putting it to rest at all
04:04 Of the president's comments that he believes that her integrity will be proven
04:12 I think that's a bit premature again my humble
04:17 Because you see when a case is under investigation. I thought things should be beside the cost
04:24 proceeding with the
04:27 complaint of the loss of the money I
04:29 think
04:31 These are cases where if I were the president I'll be a little bit more careful
04:35 The president was right in commending her for the job. She's done for the government and for the nation as a whole
04:41 Because truly Madam Cecilia the power has been a worthy public servant
04:48 There's no doubt at all in my mind
04:50 But when a case of this nature
04:53 emerges
04:54 Is important for the processes to take place before we jump to conclusion?
04:59 That is why I was even caution all the public commentators to be able to take second
05:05 Because look there's no evidence so far that it's a stolen money
05:10 There's no evidence so far that it is a laundered money. We don't have any evidence
05:15 All we know is that he sent some people to the police
05:20 Stealing her money. Of course, is there is the amount of the money that is causing this kind of public uproar?
05:28 The ones nothing has been established. We should not condemn them
05:31 I think what we need to do is to ensure that the proper
05:36 investigation processes take place for
05:39 I think you should be interested because there could be an angle of this money being laundered. I'm not saying it is
05:47 But it raises a question the office of special prosecutor might be interested because again raises issues of corruption
05:54 Even Shrek may be interested because he could raise the case of administrative injustice
06:00 In terms of how things are done and I'm not making this point to say he's serious not at all
06:06 But just for her to regain her integrity
06:09 If these processes take place she will be able to regain that
06:13 That's why I think it was pretty much the president make a conclusive statement that he's confident that
06:21 Integrity will be restored. We haven't gone through the process yet. And that for me was a little bit unfortunate
06:26 Sorry and will people be right if they say the president is a clearing agent for his appointees who
06:37 Suspected to be corrupt
06:41 Frankly, I don't know about that. People can make their own comments. I will not make that comment
06:46 but what I can say is that the president seems to be consistent in
06:53 Apparently denied any wrongdoing of his appointees that seems to be consistent
06:59 Because for me this will have been a wonderful opportunity to some talk
07:04 By taking a certain son while commanding her for a great services to the nation
07:09 It will be opportunity for the president to reiterate
07:14 His position on this whole notion of corruption and he really know nothing the ladies
07:20 It's not at all. We don't know that
07:22 But for the president not to take that not be not be to be a little bit more aggressive in
07:28 Making a bold statement on the need for public officials to conduct the first work
07:34 I think he misses the boat on that. All right, so as I say
07:40 It's not that madam the past look this woman has worked for many years
07:44 I knew that personally and before he got into this government. He ran a business
07:49 He has no understanding. So so business person, but the whole idea of a public official keeping that amount in the house
07:58 What is causing this black?
08:00 Maybe in the end when the proper processes are done
08:04 You will emerge victorious in terms of finding
08:09 Nothing against it and I think that what those of them who know her
08:12 grateful
08:14 None the less if it is found out that he breached certain rules and all then functions might be imposed
08:20 Is if your leader you got to vote in taking certain decisions that reinforce a kind of image you want to present your people
08:28 That's why I think people are saying is a is a is a clearing house
08:33 I don't believe so, but I can say that he's been very consistent in not damning any appointee who?
08:40 Allegedly may have committed some kind of offense and that's what my problem
08:44 Picture then that's her conduct and that of the president paint as far as good governance is concerned
08:52 You see if you take this country the present conditions of the country into account
09:00 How some people have lost their their money investing in government on?
09:05 How the economy is kind of grounding down and people?
09:11 experience
09:14 Evening I'll be very careful about these things about money is usage and it's poor
09:22 Okay, because the reason why people are acting and I believe many may believe that the plan is a very
09:30 Decent human I know as I keep saying so probably is a matter of indiscretion on her part and her husband's part
09:38 Well, so that money
09:40 in the house
09:43 probably
09:44 Confident the banking system is dropping so people want to hold their money
09:48 Now comes of possible reasons in fact one can easily agree that traditionally and I know he's a from
09:55 Alexandria people like to keep money, you know, but
09:59 naturally
10:00 When your public official your behavior might be distinctively
10:04 Different from a private person if a certain private businessman had ten million dollars in the house
10:10 He stole it and he came out. I don't think the offer will be as great as having a right
10:16 Okay, and I think that's where our public officials are missing. They are different from me
10:23 They forget that even if your public official and you a millionaire before becoming a public official
10:29 Immediately take the oath to serve the nation
10:32 Everything changes. That's why you remember one doctor Christine. Don't decided to get into public office
10:39 He had now publicly that he was divorcing from his business
10:44 So that of you know, Iota of a conflict of interest
10:49 That is the way to do so rich people can go to government by certain measures are taking to separate your new role from your own
10:56 role, so I guess the point I'm making is that
10:59 even if the
11:02 Madame to see the other path money is legitimate. He had it, you know before you get into government
11:08 The fact is that his present position
11:14 Expected healthy behavior in terms of how he's managing his own
11:19 Prof. Balfour Jim and I'm grateful for your time his former UN adviser on governance meanwhile MP for Tamale central
11:27 Ibrahim Muttala Mohammed says president a coup father's comments seeking to clear former sanitation minister
11:32 Cecilia the parties unfortunate and does not signal a true effort at fighting corruption
11:38 President a coup father in accepting the resignation of minister indicated
11:43 Strong confidence in the minister that she will be exonerated of any wrongdoing
11:48 Speaking to join us by Muttala Mohammed. I give that the president was already seeking to clear the minister even before an
11:56 Investigation let's get more from parliamentary affairs
11:59 Correspondent quick was fancy was joined as quick. Um, it's a lot more
12:03 I'm at is concerned that so many more ministers may be holding money in their homes
12:08 In fact, he has very strong words
12:13 President who we accuse of being a clergy gent
12:16 He says the president should wait for proper investigation to happen into these allegations that have been made against the minister
12:22 in fact
12:23 He says that despite the minister's allegation or claims that their consistencies in the reports that have been put out so far
12:30 The minister has not proven any contrary figures to this effect
12:34 He says that it is the belief of the minority that the president is only seeking to do what he normally do
12:40 When there's corruption allegation against his ministers to clear them
12:43 He's also a legend for instance that if you see the amount of money involved that has been said to have been stolen from Madame
12:50 Cecilia the path it will mean that more ministers are even holding more cash because this are money they gain from corrupt or illicit
12:56 Proceedings for which reason they cannot lodge in the bank
12:59 He says that contrary to the government's claim and almost always calling on Ghanaians to actually not caught the foreign currency
13:07 Especially the dollar his understanding is that a lot more ministers are doing so and in fact
13:12 He says that a public accounts committee must take some keen interest in this and looking
13:16 Well, Cocoa Sanchez a parliamentary affairs correspondent quick if you can hear me
13:23 We know that a public accounts committee is sitting this morning has this issue come up and what else?
13:29 Can you report from there?
13:32 Well
13:36 Well, Quentin, we know that the public accounts committee sitting has this issue come up
13:41 So the the ministers ministry suspected look
13:46 Right, so this
13:53 It's a terrible connection with a network definitely there's more we'll be bringing you from Parliament
14:01 In our subsequent bulletins move on to other stories some Irish youth of a soccer
14:05 I remember in Kwanzaa have vandalized a Sawasse police station following the alleged killing of a young man by police
14:12 Sunday evening that youth claimed 32 year olds
14:16 Eliha Talifu who was arrested in a police swoop in the area was manhandled by the police leading to his death
14:23 Love louver blades of windows and benches at that station were destroyed
14:29 By the youth who pelted stones and other materials at the station and our gymna joins us with details
14:36 and now
14:39 What more can you tell us about the attack?
14:41 By the youth on the police station in a Sawasse
14:45 Now now hot more can you report from a Sawasse
14:55 Yes, I saw so information that we got last night is that a youth
15:02 professional group then youth from the Akrama community visited the police station to protect
15:10 the alleged killing of their colleague by the police according to them the colleague was arrested in a police swoop at
15:18 a square mom phone and we understand that the
15:23 Youth group are claiming that the police will handle the young man leading to his demise
15:28 so yesterday they went to the police pelter stones at the police station and
15:32 Watch access into the police station and it took intervention of a police patrol team
15:38 To get to the station and ensure that calm is restored
15:42 We learned that some of the policemen who were in the police station could were able to run
15:50 Save themselves from attack being attacked by these young men
15:54 Then yesterday we tried to get access to the police and get their side of the story
16:00 but unfortunately and the
16:02 Officers that we were able to establish contact with said they cannot talk
16:08 They'll write a report send it to the police in the car
16:11 That's the headquarters for them to issue a statement on what is happening
16:15 so they are unable to tell us their side of the story, but
16:20 We know that calm has been restored the person who has been who died from
16:25 Alleged police manhandling was the body was deposited at the confederacy in hospital this morning
16:34 we've been able to establish contact with some family members of the deceased and
16:38 We learned that they are trying to get the body of the deceased for barrier since they are Muslims
16:45 Immediately something like of this nature happens. They try to
16:48 Within a certain possible time find a barrier place for the deceased though police
16:55 from our
16:57 Investigation have commenced their investigation into the matter and in due time
17:01 We're expecting that police will issue a press statement and explaining
17:06 What went down at the Aswan police station?
17:10 And our gym and with that update from us our say we have our eyes on this matter
17:15 Definitely will bring you more as and when we get updates from there now beginning August all babies born in Ghana will be issued with
17:22 Ghana card numbers as well as their best certificate identification numbers. That's a revelation by Vice President. Dr
17:29 Bala Mia this follows the completion of the integration of the database of the Ghana Health Service that bets and debts
17:37 Registry and the National Identification Authority leading to the first baby in Ghana being issued with a Ghana card number
17:45 Speaking at the 75th speech and prize-giving day of the Ghana National College in Cape Coast
17:50 Dr. Bala Mia revealed that nearly 90% of the population now have their tax
17:56 Identification numbers and the nation is on course in digitalizing the economy
18:02 Speaking at the 75th anniversary of the school the vice president
18:06 Indicated that government was working deeply to ensure that all facets of the Ghana economy in
18:13 Digitalized he says Ghana's economic transformation is in a strictly linked with
18:19 digitalization of the economy
18:22 When we came into office only 4% of the population had tax identification
18:27 numbers we said make the Ghana card the tax identification number and now we have 85% of the population with tax
18:35 identification numbers
18:37 I'm very happy to announce here and I think this is the first time because it just happened yesterday
18:45 We wanted to make sure we will be able to issue
18:49 Ghana card numbers to children and young people
18:53 We will be able to issue Ghana card numbers to children when they are born
18:58 Right and we have therefore integrated the databases of the National Identification Authority
19:08 With the births and deaths registry and the Ghana Health Service
19:13 The work has been completed and the test the full test was done yesterday
19:19 And I'm happy to say that the first baby with a Ghana card number was issued yesterday
19:25 So you are entering into a world from next month
19:28 From next month all babies born in Ghana once they take them to weigh in
19:35 They will be issued the Ghana card number and also
19:39 Because of they will also get the birth certificate
19:43 Certificate
19:44 [No audio]
20:13 [Music]
20:26 Let's get down to the rest of our stories
20:28 The Social Security and National Insurance Trust NIT says it will urgently review its investments to assure maximum productivity
20:36 Members of the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament have been questioning leadership of the Trust on some of the investment decisions they make
20:44 Which have not yielded profits to pay contributors
20:47 Speaking to journalists, Director General of SNIC Dr. John Ufuri-Tenkran explained that the Trust is currently reviewing its investment portfolio
20:56 And will always channel its resources where it can get maximum gains
21:01 As our minister said, it's about time we look at some of the economic, clearly targeted investments that have been made in the past
21:13 And have a policy that makes sure that we enter into investments which are going to give a return to the Trust
21:27 So we took that, we've taken that on board and I'm sure that over time the portfolio will be streamlined
21:35 So that we don't have any of these so-called socially targeted investments that have a tendency not to perform
21:45 We've made significant progress from where we were the last time we appeared
21:51 A lot of these investments that need a bit of restructuring and cleanup, we've made a lot of progress
22:00 We actually accept the admonition from the chairman that the funds that come to us are pensioners' contributory funds
22:12 Where people are hoping that they get put into good use so that it will be ready to pay their pensions
22:18 And we've taken that in good order and that is exactly what we are committed to do and we are going to do that
22:27 Dr. Tamekwun also revealed that government's domestic debt exchange program has not affected the Trust in any way
22:35 That will prevent it from honouring its obligations to pensioners
22:39 With respect to the DDEP, let me address that first
22:43 I think the good news there for pension funds, not only for SNIT, but for pension funds in general
22:49 Is that the government exempted us, so for those of us who hold government bonds
22:59 We haven't suffered any losses in respect of haircuts or anything like that
23:06 Yes, SNIT as part of our investments, we do invest in other companies who are exposed to the DDEP
23:19 Especially the banks, so that is an indirect effect there
23:24 But it is not something that is material that would prevent us from honouring our obligations
23:33 We are committed to making sure that we are making good investments
23:36 And I think I want to assure contributors and pensioners that
23:42 As much as one cannot predict what the investment landscape is going to be like
23:49 We make sure that we are putting the necessary checks and balances in place to manage our risk
23:56 And to make sure that on a risk-adjusted basis we post good returns for the contributor
24:03 In the Upper East Region, Farmouth, Kariu and Gurugu in the Talense district are calling on government
24:10 To haul contractors back to fix their One Village One Dam
24:13 They say the dams are too important to be abandoned in their current state
24:18 They want the basing of the dams deepened, their embankment walls firmed up
24:23 And the area of the dam widened
24:26 Jojo Kodna has more in the Joy News Hotline documentary "Testy Dams"
24:31 We are not happy, we can't farm, our land is just bare
24:43 We would have been farming during Christmas
24:46 You must repair the dam for us
24:49 We had no idea the dam would be constructed like this
24:58 We thought they would do a good job
25:00 We farm on this land we gave away for the dam
25:03 And we are excited because we hope it will help us
25:06 They came here to help us by constructing the dam
25:09 So that we can farm all year round and make money
25:12 But the dam dries up so fast, you will not even recognize the site as a dam
25:17 I planted in the first year and the water dried up
25:20 So my plants died
25:23 The farmers say they will not count it as a loss
25:27 If the government brings back contractors to reconstruct the dam
25:31 Some pledged to support the government to cling to power
25:35 If the dams are properly constructed
25:38 I pray the contractor comes back to the site to construct it the way we want
25:45 If our dams are well constructed, we will support you always
25:52 We are waiting for the rain before we plant
25:59 Without rain, we can't plant
26:02 Where is the water that we will use to farm during the dry season?
26:06 This part of the story is called "Waiting for Rain"
26:13 The One Village One Dam policy was meant to put an end to rain fed agriculture
26:20 The government hoped that just as people in Burkina Faso farmed all year round
26:26 And even exported tomatoes to Ghana
26:29 People in the northern region would be able to do the same
26:33 Unfortunately, the people of Gorogo farm only during the rainy season
26:39 It is the main reason why the assemblyman for Gorogo, Roland Basama
26:45 Is refusing to call the project a dam
26:48 And his reason is
26:50 Actually, we don't call this one a dam
26:54 This is a dugout
26:56 The closure of the Bwipoit Sher Nat factory in the Savannah region is said to be affecting share business
27:03 In the area where the product known as the Northern Cocoa is largely farmed
27:07 The 10 million dollar factory joint venture between the produce buying company Limited
27:13 And Mercedes-Lambert, LDS, McReynards, Equipmentos, Industries Limited of Brazil
27:19 Was established to process Sher Nats into Sher butter, Sher oil among others for export to Brazil
27:25 But the factory has been closed for the past four years
27:28 Pushing a lot of people into the market
27:31 And it's affecting their livelihood
27:37 The factory now outgrown with weeds
27:42 Was once a vibrant site with boom with activities
27:47 The place is now very quiet
27:51 With only the sound of chirping birds and the movement of animals
27:57 The only visible human you will see at the factory is the security guard
28:02 Who is to ensure the machines are protected
28:07 The factory is now a residential area
28:17 And the factory is now a residential area
28:22 The factory that once bought Sher from the people in the area
28:29 Now sits in the bushes idling
28:32 The assembly man for old Bwipoit electoral area, Esuwene Williams said
28:38 Sher they picked the previous years are sitting uncollected
28:43 Making the people poorer each day
28:46 When PVC was in progress
28:49 There's nothing like coming to me for support
28:53 My people were getting what they wanted
28:56 Because their duty is to pick and they will come and buy
29:02 Money, food, everything was just in abundance
29:08 Now you get to my village and see
29:12 People picked up since last year
29:16 No one, step there to pick them
29:19 The five regions of the north which are largely known as the poor regions of Ghana
29:25 The factory was to turn things around considering the global demand for Sher butter
29:32 But that hope is dashed
29:35 Yakubu Fatima who picked Sher said
29:38 They are forced to sell at very low prices
29:42 Or you may have to process it for home consumption
29:46 With the stress that you go through
29:48 The only benefit is when you use it to make Sher butter for the family
29:54 But if you want to sell it
29:56 Your profit is just marginal
29:59 What they do is they just come and buy at cheap prices
30:05 Madam Idisa Aramata buys Sher from the villages and resells
30:12 She said in the past Sher was presented to the factory and take her money instantly
30:19 But currently she has to travel several kilometers to Tamale and even sell it at cheaper prices
30:31 In the past when I go around the villages and buy
30:35 I go to the factory and they pay me instantly
30:40 But now I have to travel to the Tamale market and sell
30:45 And the buyers will buy it at very cheap prices
30:49 At the Yabuabu market
30:52 Sher not sellers want government to pay more attention to the produce
30:57 Because of its important value around the globe
31:01 The prices have gone down completely
31:04 And yet there is such struggle in getting the nuts
31:08 Now the value of the Sher is even more than the cocoa
31:12 With Sher nuts you can get oil, use it for soup, pomeade, making of chocolate among others
31:21 Therefore these uses are many yet the price has gone down completely
31:27 Therefore we are calling on government to intervene
31:31 The closure of the factory is not only affecting people working in the Sher value chain
31:38 But also the youth of Bupe who were largely employed at the factory
31:43 Abdullahi Baki, assemblyman for the Bupe electoral area
31:48 Wants government to intervene
31:51 And to revive the company so that the youth in the Savannah region will get something to do
31:59 Because government made a pledge of giving every district a factory
32:05 And fortunately we already have an existing factory in Yabuabu constituency
32:12 So if the government were even to give another factory it was going to be a plus
32:18 For the millions of people in the Sher value chain
32:22 What they are asking is that government pay attention and revamp the factory
32:27 To create jobs and income for the teeming unemployed youth in the area
32:32 For Joy News, Martina Bugrit reporting
32:38 Joy News Impact Makers Award winner for the Bono region, Jefferson Kwethiagbochoro
32:43 Says the future of the country depends on how children are empowered
32:47 To identify the prospect in the life choices they make
32:50 Speaking during a child empowerment program for selected basic school students in Sunyay
32:56 Organized by the Friends of Health Association, Ms. Agbochoro said
33:00 The project would help build the confidence of the children
33:04 To sustain the development of the nation, precious Samevo has more
33:08 The future of every nation depends on the choices of the younger generation
33:13 Your future is in your own hands, you can protect that future, you can hold that future by studying very hard
33:21 Friends of Health Association, FOHA, led by Joy News Impact Makers Award winner for the Bono region
33:27 Jefferson Kwethiagbochoro is helping to change the narrative
33:31 By engaging basic school students in the Sunyay municipality
33:35 To build their confidence in identifying prospects in their life choices
33:39 Students from the Norbert Educational Complex at Yauima
33:43 And Assemblies of God schools in Sunyay were exposed to the causes and effects
33:48 Of drug abuse and teenage pregnancies, mentorship, career guidance and menstrual hygiene education among others
33:54 We are telling them to ensure that they do not become victims of teenage pregnancies
33:59 Victims of drug abuse, they do not become victims of child marriage
34:03 And when we have these young ones going to school, it means that they are going to become productive
34:09 They are going to work and their dependency ratio or unemployment rate by extension in years to come is going to reduce
34:15 So I was motivating and empowering them that it's possible, the future is full of possibility
34:21 And they just have to stay focused until they get there to make greater impact in their generation
34:26 Some of the teachers said the empowerment drive deserved commendations
34:31 I would like to acknowledge him for his boldness
34:34 Also his know-how about how children should position themselves in doing things
34:40 Ghana is turning into a country where youths find themselves in a situation whereby they don't know what to do
34:49 For him to take upon himself to organize such a thing
34:54 I think he should be applauded even more than this
34:57 For her hopes to empower over 2,000 children, a project Mr. Gbutro said requires the support of stakeholders
35:04 To help children make the right choices today to impact their future and the country tomorrow
35:10 We need to go to the hinterland, the hard to reach areas
35:14 And then we need transport to carry volunteers there
35:17 And then we also need some menstrual packs
35:20 We also need some items to motivate the kids
35:23 So definitely we are calling on all these stakeholders
35:26 The media, Joy News is applauded for that, for what it is doing
35:32 In making sure that these impact stories are heard across the country and beyond the borders of Ghana
35:37 The future of the country depends on these young ones we are reaching out to
35:40 Because the product of what we are seeing now will determine the sustainability of the country
35:48 In terms of our development
35:50 So we believe that if we can equip these young ones, if we can motivate and encourage them
35:56 That is the future of our nation
35:58 Some of the students had this to say
36:00 It's good for them to continue to empower the students
36:03 We should make sure that we don't get addicted to drugs
36:06 And we should learn and study hard so that we can help our country, Ghana
36:11 When you are a lady you have to be careful
36:14 And be careful of men who are dangerous
36:17 So that you don't get pregnant, isolated teenagers
36:20 Precious, Semevo, Joy News, Sunyaye
36:23 Auto mechanics in Ghana have been engaging in poor handling of used engine oil
36:30 Properly called dirty oil, which contains heavy metals
36:35 Improper disposal of used engine oil can lead to heavy metals
36:39 Finding their way into soil, surface water and groundwater
36:43 Scientists fear exposure to dirty oil poses long term risk to their health
36:49 Lab of Msc Debra has been exploring this topic
36:53 At a section of the Swabian magazine in the Ashanti region of Ghana
36:58 Known as Abawawuth
37:00 Auto mechanic Clement Zuma drains used engine oil
37:08 With the oil at a brim, Clement can't move it without getting his fingers soiled
37:14 The oil is responsible for his stained palms
37:19 Clement, who came here a decade ago, has been eating with these hands
37:24 Sometimes washed, sometimes left to chaperone his meals
37:35 Doug Christopher would like to don long sleeves to work
37:39 To limit skin contact with both dirt and oil
37:42 He hasn't been spared the discomfort of dirty oil on his skin
37:46 I don't like dirty oil. I don't like it.
37:49 I don't like it.
37:51 I don't like it.
37:53 I don't like it.
37:55 I don't like it.
37:57 I don't like it.
37:59 I don't like it.
38:01 I don't like it.
38:03 Engine oil is a type of lubricant used in old mobiles
38:09 To reduce friction, heat and wear among mechanical parts that are in contact
38:15 These oils are chiefly petroleum based
38:19 Or synthetic oils with some additives for improved performance
38:24 As a result of its continuous use, the oils become contaminated
38:29 And therefore must be replaced with fresh engine oil
38:33 As the used engine oil is no longer functional
38:37 Waste oil has been found to contain lead, zinc, arsenic, chromium, cadmium and sulphur
38:44 These metals have been found to be harmful to the body
38:48 The major organs can be in serious danger when exposed to these metals
38:54 Professor Fred Wodu is with the Duke University
38:58 First, it can cause cancer.
39:00 Two, it can cause hypertension.
39:02 Three, it can cause miscarriages in pregnant women.
39:07 Four, it causes a rate of dysfunction in men
39:11 And it's very potent in that aspect
39:14 That is scientifically proven that it can cause rate of dysfunction
39:20 And two, it also causes diminished learning abilities in children
39:27 Improper disposal of waste can lead to heavy metals finding their way
39:32 Into soil, surface water and ground water
39:36 Unfortunately, pouring used oil on the ground is commonplace
39:42 A practice fought to strengthen the soil
40:02 As part of efforts to identify and address some public health concerns in Africa
40:07 The civil engineering department of Duke University in the United States of America
40:12 Have partnered the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Ghana
40:16 To understand these practices in order to help the auto mechanics at SWAME magazine to deal with them
40:22 Professor Fred Wodu, who is leading the team, has previously researched the presence of these heavy metals
40:29 In the blood of the auto mechanics, where heavy levels of these metals were detected
40:34 Duke University has a very good program, what we call the Bios connection
40:39 Where they allow people to do research in various areas
40:42 So I did have a grant from Bios connection
40:45 And I came down to look at the heavy metal level contents in the auto mechanics
40:51 So we took their finger nails, toe nails and hair
40:58 And we analyzed for these metals
41:00 And we did find out that, depending on the number of years you work as a mechanic
41:06 You have higher metals in your system
41:09 So those at smaller years of working here have lower metal levels
41:15 And those with higher years of working, like over 12 years, have very high levels of metals in them
41:22 So that was where the whole thing started, that we thought that the metals had a lot to do with the retention in their system
41:33 In addition, we also measured the blood pressure and realized that the higher the metal level content in your system
41:39 The higher the blood pressure measurement
41:41 So that prompted us to come and do more of health education for the mechanics
41:47 The students are happy with the interaction with the auto mechanics
41:51 And one thing that I've noticed is that I think a lot of them have actually known to some extent
41:58 That there are some problems that can be caused by the motor oil and not wearing protective equipment
42:03 But I feel like we're going one step further and helping them further understand
42:07 The effects that can be caused by this motor oil and the heavy metals
42:10 For example, I think a lot of them don't know about exactly all of the problems that can be caused
42:16 Such as cancer and liver damage
42:18 We also live on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter
42:21 Let's take a break and we'll return to "This Business"
42:23 Hi, good morning, welcome to "This Business"
42:45 My name is Darrell Kwau
42:47 The electricity company of Ghana, in a bid to guarantee a robust and reliable power distribution network
42:52 Is expected to train over 3,000 certified electrical contractors who work for the company
42:58 The training, which currently focuses on effective earthen systems
43:02 Also has other modules targeted at equipping these contractors to ensure safe distribution
43:08 Director of ECG Training School, internal engineer Ahinogoswe Fiji
43:12 Speaking with Joy Business, the training is crucial
43:15 Here's more
43:17 Considered crucial in ensuring safety around any electrical installation or gadgets
43:21 The earthen cores by the electricity company of Ghana ECG
43:25 Is expected to introduce these contractors who have been training batches
43:28 To the latest technology and know-how in designing and construction of a reliable distribution network
43:34 According to Director of ECG Training School internal engineer Ahinogoswe Fiji
43:39 By ensuring safety, workers of ECG and contractors do not end up in the same situation
43:44 Killing themselves, damaging equipment or causing any distraction
43:49 He says this type of training could be organized once a year
43:53 But there are others done every two or three years and refreshes as and when it becomes necessary
43:58 It's very critical because they are part of our workforce
44:02 Most of our work is executed by third party contractors
44:07 And if they have to deliver to our standards
44:10 They have to be trained on what the best practice and what the standards are
44:15 So giving them a trainee will give the assurance that they do a good job
44:19 And that will ensure that our network also works properly
44:24 If they are not trained, we'll give them work
44:27 They do work that will not meet our standards
44:30 And that will impact on our network
44:33 So basically, giving them the competencies that we needed
44:38 To ensure that they deliver to requirements
44:41 Lill's facilitator and general manager of ECG's Energy Consulting and Telco Business Directorate
44:47 Dr. George Edufo says the modular program aims to train the contractors
44:51 To deliver effective power distribution systems for ECG
44:54 Dr. Edufo explains that there is system earthen down to protect the power system
44:58 And equipment earthen to protect gadgets used in homes
45:02 If the earthen is not there and you happen to be in contact with a gadget
45:07 It can be electrocuted, so earthen is very key
45:10 Now what we are doing here is to equip them with the necessary skills
45:13 To install a very effective earthen
45:16 I'll give you an example
45:18 If you visit an electrical installation
45:21 And then the installation is not properly earthen
45:24 In the event of faults, if you happen to be within the premises
45:28 You can be killed from what we call a step voltage
45:33 Now the Korea International Cooperation Agency says it will invest 9 million dollars
45:37 To support the Ghanaian economy
45:39 The agency says it is targeting various sectors
45:42 That will have direct impact on livelihoods
45:44 As well as contribute largely to economic growth
45:47 According to Senior Deputy Country Director Oh Seon-min
45:50 His company is looking at expanding the Greek and educational sectors
45:54 He spoke to Joy Business at the Korea Knowledge Sharing Seminar at the University of Ghana
46:00 Until early 1970s, Korea and Ghana had a similar economy and GDP per capita
46:11 For now, Ghana's GDP per capita is 2,300 US dollars
46:17 Korea is about 35,000 US dollars
46:21 So we try to find a reason
46:26 And how we leverage the Koreans' experience to Ghana
46:31 By sharing our partnership
46:34 Our partnership, the Republic of Korea
46:38 The government of Republic of Korea
46:41 Through the Korea International Cooperation Agency, KOICA
46:44 We made an agreement last year with the University of Ghana
46:49 So we will conduct the 9 million US dollars in the next five years
46:56 So today is a very remarkable day for launching our new start
47:02 With the whole University of Ghana, faculty and then the students
47:07 There are several components we will support
47:11 So first of all, we are supporting the Republic of Ghana
47:18 The government
47:19 So we will spend the equipment
47:22 The ICT equipment, about 1.5 million US dollars
47:29 And about 4.5 million US dollars
47:32 We will spend for the construction
47:36 For the 2,500 square meter building
47:40 And then 2.2 million US dollars
47:43 We will spend for the startup incubation program
47:47 Alright, and that's it for business
47:49 The news continues after this break
47:51 Please stay tuned
48:15 Welcome back to the rest of our story
48:17 Small people are resorting to trekking
48:19 As the Agunamkwan-Tatakwade highway has become impassable
48:23 The road which has deteriorated over the years
48:26 Without proper maintenance
48:27 Is causing long trailers to break down frequently on it
48:31 Resulting in the build-up of huge vehicular traffic on that stretch
48:36 My colleague Samuel Kodjoe-Breeze is monitoring things for us there
48:40 He joins us via Zoom with some live updates
48:43 Kodjoe-Breeze, how dangerous and deteriorated is this stretch?
48:51 Well, Aisha, I think it's beyond description
48:55 The road has really deteriorated to the point that
48:59 It would take a massive construction to get the road back on track
49:04 And all back to the state where the vehicles would have a smooth drive on it
49:10 Now as we speak, there are two portions of this road that have been blocked
49:15 And it takes some smart driving for smaller cars to bypass it
49:19 Because two long trailer vehicles have locked up a stretch in Merritt
49:24 On that stretch when you are getting to Apoma
49:27 When you are able to cross it, there are also two long trailer vehicles
49:32 That have also blocked the road as they were scheduled
49:35 So when you cross this one, you get to a schedule and you are not able to pass
49:39 I've met people who say they've got things closed to where they want to get to Agbunaba
49:43 Because they are not able to cross the huge traffic they have to attend in Kakrade
49:48 Now I'm here with one man who has been walking from Kakrade to this point
49:52 He says he's going to Apoma Chief. How are you sir?
49:55 I'm fantastic
49:56 Why did you choose to walk?
49:58 Because the road is blocked
50:03 That's why I've walked from Kakrade to Apoma
50:05 How many minutes have you been walking?
50:07 30 minutes now
50:09 Well, he has to resort to trekking
50:14 And I've seen a lot of people who are walking as well
50:17 Because if you don't walk, you'll be stuck in traffic
50:20 Some say they've been stuck in traffic for two hours
50:23 Some say they've been stuck in traffic for an hour
50:27 And everybody and his or her story, it's quite a hectic situation here
50:32 If you want to move from Kakrade to Agbunaba
50:35 It may take you no less than four hours for you to cross
50:38 Because of the way the traffic is
50:41 I've had people tell me they had to walk from Bokro to Apoma
50:47 Which is about, it would take you no less than one hour and thirty minutes walking to get there
50:53 But that's how the situation is
50:55 If you don't walk, it will be difficult for you to cross with your vehicle
50:58 So we are asking for the government to take a real look at this
51:03 Day in, day out, there are huge mineral resources that are hauled on this road
51:09 And they cannot fathom why such an important road is left to deteriorate
51:14 To the level where vehicles that have to park on it get stuck in traffic for hours
51:21 Losing man hours
51:22 One businessman called me this morning and said his workers, as at 10am, had not gotten to the office
51:28 So just imagine the hours they are losing in traffic
51:33 Samuel, could you please, on that stretch, bring us updates on how deteriorated that stretch has become
51:42 And that's how we wrap up the bulletin this morning
51:45 My name is Aisha Ibrahim, you can log on to myjournalline.com
51:49 Over there you will find stories and updates of all the developing stories
51:54 One of them, NCA Kickstarters Digital Audio Broadcasting Trial in Akwa and Kumasi in August
52:01 You will find a number of the stories, top stories on myjournalline.com
52:08 My name is Aisha Ibrahim, see you again at 12
52:11 [Music]