The West African Mining and Power Exhibition (WAMPEX) will return to Accra from May 28-30, 2025, marking its 18th edition with significant changes to its format and organization.
The event, now transitioning to an annual schedule, will be jointly hosted by dmg events, the Ghana Chamber of Mines, and Event Partners International (EPI) at the Accra International Conference Centre and Grand Arena.
Industry leaders anticipate this year’s exhibition to be the largest yet, with more than 200 exhibitors from 10 countries and over 5,000 attendees expected. The expanded partnership reflects growing regional interest in mining and energy solutions, particularly as Ghana maintains its position as West Africa’s leading gold producer and an emerging hub for mineral exploration.
“This annual platform will connect technology providers with mining and power professionals across the region,” said Joshua Low, Vice President at dmg events. The conference program will address critical industry themes including sustainable small-scale mining practices and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations in resource extraction.
New for 2025, an Innovation Zone will showcase cutting-edge technologies aimed at improving operational efficiency and cost reduction. The event builds on Ghana’s reputation for mineral development, with the country’s stable investment climate and progressive mining policies attracting sustained foreign interest.
As the longest-running mining and power exhibition in West Africa, WAMPEX continues to serve as a key meeting point for industry stakeholders. The transition to an annual format underscores the sector’s rapid evolution and the increasing importance of regional collaboration in addressing both technical challenges and sustainability imperatives.
A coalition of farmers, researchers and activists has launched a continental campaign to redirect financial support from industrial agriculture toward traditional farming methods.
The movement emerged from a Nairobi conference organized by the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa, where participants outlined strategies to challenge current investment patterns in African food systems.
Development finance institutions and private equity firms currently channel most agricultural funding toward large-scale industrial projects, according to forum participants. They cited data showing less than 3% of European Union agricultural funding to UN agencies supported agroecology initiatives between 2016 and 2018. Critics argue these financial flows promote chemical-dependent monocultures while marginalizing smallholder farmers who produce most of Africa’s food.
The Nairobi meeting highlighted several concerns about current agricultural financing. Participants noted that 76 percent of pesticides used in Kenya are classified as highly hazardous, with many banned in developed countries. Proposed trade agreements could further consolidate corporate control over seeds through intellectual property rules, potentially undermining traditional seed sharing practices.
Several African nations have begun implementing alternatives. Senegal, Mali and The Gambia have introduced policies supporting organic inputs and indigenous farming knowledge. Conference attendees pointed to these examples as models for broader transformation, calling for African-led financial mechanisms to reduce reliance on external funding sources.
The alliance plans to intensify pressure on development banks and agribusiness investors through targeted campaigns. Their strategy includes legal challenges to hazardous pesticides, expanded farmer training programs, and advocacy for national policies that allocate at least 30 percent of agricultural budgets to sustainable practices.
This growing movement reflects deeper questions about Africa’s agricultural development path. As climate change disrupts food production, proponents argue agroecology offers both environmental benefits and economic resilience for small-scale producers. The debate extends beyond farming techniques to fundamental questions about who controls Africa’s food systems and for whose benefit.
The Nairobi conference has laid groundwork for sustained advocacy, with plans for regional dialogues and policy engagement across the continent. While significant financial and political obstacles remain, the gathering marked an important step in organizing resistance to current agricultural investment trends. The coming years will test whether this coalition can meaningfully redirect resources toward more sustainable food production models.
The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) extended its 2025 gains on Tuesday as Scancom PLC (MTN Ghana) propelled trading activity, lifting the benchmark index to 6,455.96 points.
The 21.33-point advance marked a 0.33% daily gain, maintaining the exchange’s strong year-to-date performance of 32.06% growth.
MTN Ghana dominated proceedings with 12.1 million shares changing hands, accounting for 99% of the day’s GH¢40.2 million turnover. The telecom heavyweight edged up 0.6% to close at GH¢3.32, contributing significantly to the GH¢260 million expansion in overall market capitalization. While the financial stocks index held steady at 3,162.31, select equities including Ecobank Transnational and Cal Bank saw modest activity without price movement.
Market analysts attribute the sustained bullish sentiment to improving macroeconomic indicators and strong corporate earnings, particularly in the telecom sector. “MTN’s liquidity and consistent performance make it a bellwether for institutional investors,” noted an Accra-based equity trader. The rally comes amid stable inflation and currency trends that have boosted confidence in Ghanaian assets.
The exchange’s performance contrasts with recent bearish trends across some African markets, positioning Ghana as a regional outlier. With MTN driving nearly all volume, observers suggest the market’s breadth remains narrow, requiring stronger participation across sectors to sustain momentum. Investors will watch whether upcoming corporate earnings and government debt restructuring progress can broaden market activity beyond the current telecom-led rally.
This trading session reinforces the GSE’s recovery narrative after pandemic-era setbacks, though analysts caution that sustained growth depends on continued fiscal discipline and private sector expansion. The exchange’s resilience offers encouragement for upcoming IPOs and secondary offerings seeking to capitalize on renewed investor appetite.
An eighteen (18) year old former student of the Abor Senior High School (ABORSCO) at Abor in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region, has been adjudged Miss Dzita 2025 at a colourful and keenly contested beauty pageant dubbed, ‘Miss Dzita 2025’ held at the Dzita ‘Meet Me There’ event grounds over the weekend.
Miss Rose Akpene Hagbah emerged the overall winner in the well-attended and patronized event after beating nine (9) other contestants in the race, graced by hundreds of patrons and citizens of the area, including the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the area, Hon. Sandra Seyram Kpedor.
The event, organized by the Dzita Development Association (DDA) through its youth wing, the New Generation Action Forum (NEGAF) for Development, formed part of activities to mark this year’s Homecoming Festival of the citizens of Dzita.
It was also used to showcase the rich cultural values, customs, and traditions of the chiefs and people of the Anlo State of the Volta Region. It was under the theme, ‘Celebrating Unity, Embracing Diversity’.
Assembly Member For Dzita, Hon. Dr. David Normanyo (Right), Decorating The 1st Runner-Up
The participants, aged between eighteen (18) and twenty-five (25) years, were either students or seamstresses drawn from Dzita and Dzita-Agbledomi. All of them sewed most of the costumes used on stage themselves.
The ten (10) beauty queen contestants included Erica Seyram Deynu, 19, Angela Gbologah, 18, Heartwill Akorfa Gadikor, 21, and Grace Wopemenya, 19. The others were Rose Akpene Hagbah, 18, Emelia Atadika, 23 and Perfect Akpeko Ahiamo, 19. The rest were Sandra Atatsi Atsugah, 19, and Gloria Afetsi, 25.
Apart from individually introducing them to the charged gathering at the event, the contestants also displayed some free dance skills in addition to performing one or two traditional cultural dance forms to the admiration of all and sundry. They also engaged the crowd with their special talents’ display as well as future projects after which the three judges namely, Ms. Diana Edinam Agbanator, Mr. Reuben Yao Sakpaku and Ms. Jacqueline Dzifa Gana, subjected them to questions after speaking on their stands and views on topical issues such as illegal mining, sexual harassment, homosexuality, teenage pregnancy, illicit drug trafficking and drug abuse among the youth, environmental cleanliness and personal hygiene as well as unemployment and disrespect for the elderly in the society.
Earlier in her welcome address at the event, a spokesperson for NEGAF and one of the two female judges, Ms. Diana Edinam Agbanator, noted that the Dzita Beauty Pageant initiative underscored NEGAF’s proactive approach to addressing the educational needs of Dzita and fostering the culture of reading and lifelong learning.
She called for further support from all stakeholders and the citizens of Dzita to enable the organizers to sustain the gains so far made.
At the end of the more than six (6) hour contest, eighteen (18) year old Rose Akpene Hagbah snatched the coveted Miss Dzita 2025 title crown, taking home a Hair dryer as her prize. She was decorated by the outgoing Miss Dzita Queen.
The 1st Runner-Up award, being a Sewing Machine, went to Perfect Akpeko Ahiamo. She was decorated by the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the area, Hon. Sandra Seyram Kpedor, with the 2nd Runner-Up prize going to Erica Seyram Deynu, who went home with a Blender. The Assembly Member (AM) for the Dzita Electoral Area, Hon. David Normanyo, decorated her with the award.
Each of the seven (7) other contestants received an amount of Two Hundred Ghana Cedis (Ghc200.00) as part of their award. The Most Eloquent as well as the Most Confident awards also went to Rose Akpene Hagbah and Perfect Akpeko Ahiamo, respectively.
Speaking to our newsteam after being declared the winner, Ms. Rose Hagbah thanked God and the organizers for the opportunity to unearth their talents. She described the competition as tedious and challenging, adding that in spite of that, she still had the vim and courage to persevere to the end.
Ms. Hagbah used the opportunity to motivate her peers not only to show interest in these activities but also to challenge themselves to unearth their God-given talents.
She was grateful to the organizers and all stakeholders for the support and hoped that the platform would expose them to greater opportunities in the coming years.
One of the two Masters of Ceremony at the event, Mr. John Love Marcus Mawudzro, told our newsteam in an interview that Ms. Hagbah Rose distinguished herself throughout the competition, adding that he was not surprised Rose emerged victorious at the end of the contest. Mr. Mawudzro expressed the hope that the pageant and other activities for the homecoming would go a long way to further unite the people of Dzita, for the community’s development efforts to be realized.
Mr. Eddie Kusi Ankomah, CEO of the ERATA Group of Companies and Chairman of the Chamber of Automobile Dealers Ghana, has expressed optimism over the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi, describing it as a “miracle” for the nation’s economy.
In an exclusive interview, Mr. Ankomah commended President John Dramani Mahama and his administration for what he described as effective economic management that has led to the cedi’s rebound against the US dollar. According to him, the stronger cedi is already positively impacting the vehicle import and sales industry.
“With the cedi appreciating, consumer confidence is rising. People are more willing to buy, and that will naturally lead to an increase in car sales,” he noted. “If this trend continues, Ghana could emerge as one of the most attractive economies in Africa.”
Mr. Ankomah revealed that ERATA Motors has already adjusted its pricing strategy in response to the improved exchange rate. “As the dollar began to fall, we reduced our prices and began pricing in cedis. Initially, we were cautious about pricing in local currency due to the fear of sudden dollar hikes. But now, with some stability, we are confident,” he said.
He advised other business operators to consider converting their cedis into dollars when rates are favorable, as this can support continued price reductions and economic stability. He emphasized that this approach can help businesses keep prices down, ultimately benefiting consumers.
“The current drop in the dollar means businesses can sell their existing stock and still get foreign exchange, but at a more competitive rate,” he added. “If all businesspeople adopt this principle, we can prevent further economic decline.”
Mr. Ankomah also praised the President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), urging industry players to align with GUTA’s guidance to help stabilize the economy and promote consumer spending.
Describing the currency appreciation as unprecedented in Ghana’s change of government ,Mr. Ankomah said, “This is the first time in our history that a change in government has led to a stronger cedi. It’s truly the greatest miracle in Ghana’s economic history.”
He concluded by highlighting that while the vehicle import sector still has expectations from government, the current appreciation of the cedi is already a major step forward. “We understand there are challenges, but the government’s efforts are beginning to bear fruit, and the direction they’re taking is promising,” he said.
The newly appointed Acting CEO of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, has engaged Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene in discussions aimed at resolving critical operational challenges facing Ghana’s second-largest referral hospital.
During the introductory meeting, Dr. Baidoo highlighted KATH’s dual role as both a regional healthcare provider and a tertiary care center serving northern Ghana. He identified three priority areas requiring urgent intervention: infrastructure modernization, medical equipment upgrades, and staff accommodation solutions. A pressing concern involves senior medical personnel displaced by the ongoing Danyame redevelopment project, with the hospital administration seeking government assistance to secure nearby housing for quick emergency response.
Regional Minister Amoakohene acknowledged KATH’s strategic importance in Ghana’s healthcare ecosystem, commending the hospital’s contributions to medical education and specialist care. He revealed that two upcoming facilities the Sewua Regional Hospital and Afari Military Hospital are being prioritized for completion to decongest KATH’s overburdened emergency department.
“The government recognizes the strain on KATH’s resources,” Amoakohene stated. “We’re exploring both immediate interventions and long-term solutions to sustain quality care delivery.”
The hospital delegation presented updates on ongoing capital projects while outlining additional support needs, particularly in diagnostic equipment and staff retention programs. This engagement forms part of KATH’s broader strategy to strengthen partnerships with regional stakeholders amid growing patient volumes and infrastructure constraints.
Healthcare analysts note that resolving these challenges could significantly improve referral care for nearly 12 million Ghanaians across the middle and northern belts. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to influence resource allocation decisions in upcoming regional health sector planning sessions.
Defense Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah has delivered a strong caution to illegal miners, warning against any return to destructive mining activities in Ghana’s forest reserves and water bodies.
In a social media statement, the minister emphasized that the Ghana Armed Forces remain fully deployed and prepared to take decisive action against violators.
“A word to the wise is enough—do not return to the forest reserves and water bodies for galamsey,” Boamah stated. “Let us work together to protect Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.”
The warning comes as part of ongoing government efforts to combat illegal small-scale mining, which has caused severe environmental damage across the country. The minister highlighted the armed forces’ dual role in both national defense and environmental protection, urging citizens to emulate the patriotism demonstrated by military personnel.
Authorities have recently intensified operations against illegal mining, with joint military-police task forces conducting regular patrols and equipment seizures in affected regions. Environmental experts warn that continued degradation of water sources and forests could have long-term consequences for water security, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
The minister’s statement reinforces President Mahama’s administration’s commitment to environmental protection, even as it faces pressure from unemployment and economic challenges that drive some toward illegal mining. Observers note that sustainable solutions must balance enforcement with alternative livelihoods for affected communities.
With the rainy season approaching, concerns persist about the potential for increased pollution runoff from abandoned mining sites into critical water sources. The government maintains that its zero-tolerance policy will remain in effect, with security forces authorized to arrest and prosecute offenders.
The Ghanaian cedi has strengthened against the US dollar and other major currencies, trading at GH¢12.8964 to the dollar in the latest Bank of Ghana exchange rate bulletin.
This marks a notable recovery from recent pressures, signaling improved market confidence in the local currency.
At Tuesday’s official rates, the pound sterling traded at GH¢17.0401 while the euro exchanged at GH¢14.3411. The narrowing spread between buying and selling rates suggests reduced speculative activity in the foreign exchange market, according to financial analysts.
The cedi’s rebound follows several months of volatility, with its stabilization attributed to multiple factors. The Bank of Ghana’s monetary policy tightening, combined with recent inflows from international financial institutions and cocoa sector financing, has bolstered foreign exchange reserves. Market observers also credit the central bank’s proactive interventions in the forex market for helping to steady the currency.
“The current trend reflects both improved liquidity conditions and growing confidence in Ghana’s economic recovery path,” noted a financial analyst in Accra. “The more stable exchange rate should help moderate import costs and support the disinflation process.”
The currency’s performance comes as Ghana prepares for its mid-year budget review, with policymakers balancing fiscal consolidation targets against growth objectives. The Bank of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining exchange rate stability through continued market monitoring and appropriate policy measures.
While the cedi’s appreciation provides temporary relief, economists caution that sustained stability will depend on maintaining fiscal discipline, boosting export earnings, and managing external debt obligations. The coming months will test whether the current positive trend reflects a fundamental strengthening or temporary market adjustments.
British oil explorer Tullow Oil has agreed to sell its entire Gabonese portfolio to Gabon Oil Company for $300 million, marking a strategic shift toward core West African operations.
The transaction, expected to close by mid-2025 pending regulatory approvals, will transfer all assets of Tullow Oil Gabon S.A., including producing fields with 36 million barrels of reserves and current output of 10,000 barrels per day.
The divestment forms part of Tullow’s broader portfolio optimization strategy, prioritizing high-margin, operator-controlled assets in key markets like Ghana. Interim CEO Richard Miller emphasized the transaction’s role in strengthening the company’s financial position, with proceeds earmarked for debt reduction. While the sale will eliminate $119 million in annual earnings from Gabonese operations, management anticipates improved balance sheet flexibility will support future growth initiatives.
Industry analysts note the move reflects ongoing consolidation trends among independent oil firms facing dual pressures of decarbonization and financial constraints. Tullow’s retained focus on West African deepwater assets, particularly its operated Jubilee and TEN fields offshore Ghana, aligns with its technical expertise and regional partnerships.
The transaction requires no shareholder approval despite qualifying as a Class 1 transaction under UK listing rules. Legal and financial advisory teams from Norton Rose Fulbright and Peel Hunt LLP facilitated the agreement. Upon completion, Tullow will classify Gabon operations as discontinued in its financial reporting, with future strategy centered on debt management and selective investment in core assets.
This restructuring comes as mid-sized E&P companies navigate volatile energy markets, where capital discipline and operational focus increasingly determine competitiveness. Tullow’s calculated retreat from non-core assets may provide a template for peers balancing transition pressures with near-term hydrocarbon economics. The deal’s successful execution will test Gabon’s capacity to manage maturing oilfields amid its own energy sector reforms.
Commercial transport unions across Ghana will halt operations on Monday, May 19, in protest of what they describe as the government’s failure to enforce road traffic regulations.
The strike action, organized by major transport groups including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Concerned Drivers Association, follows years of frustration over unaddressed safety hazards caused by roadside trading.
At the core of the dispute is Sub-regulation 117 of the Road Traffic Regulations Act, which explicitly bans commercial activities on roads, pavements, and near traffic infrastructure. Union leaders argue that while authorities strictly enforce traffic rules against drivers, they consistently ignore widespread violations by street vendors occupying critical transport corridors.
“The law is clear but remains unenforced,” said Samuel Amoah, GPRTU Deputy PRO, during a press briefing. “Our members face daily hazards from congested roads while traders operate with impunity.” The unions emphasize they don’t oppose legitimate trading but demand equal enforcement of regulations that affect road safety.
The impending strike threatens to paralyze public transportation nationwide unless authorities intervene. Commuters are advised to make alternative arrangements, with unions vowing to keep vehicles parked until substantive action is taken. Road safety experts note that unresolved congestion issues could compound existing challenges in Ghana’s transport sector, where accidents claim thousands of lives annually.
This industrial action highlights growing tensions between regulatory enforcement and urban informality, a balancing act facing many developing economies. While street vending provides livelihoods for thousands, its unchecked expansion into transport zones creates preventable risks for all road users. The coming days will test whether stakeholders can find solutions that reconcile economic informality with critical safety standards.
