Author: Vincent Amedzake

A recent study conducted by Ghanaian researchers Noel Nutsugah, Mavis Essandoh, Paulina Kuranchie, and Eva Kuupuolo has brought to light the transformative impact of social media on police-citizen engagement within the Ghana Police Service (GPS). The study, grounded in the constructionist paradigm and utilizing interviews with the GPS Public Affairs Unit, delves into how social media platforms have revolutionized the way the GPS interacts with the public. One of the key findings of the study is the significant improvement in media relations facilitated by social media. In the past, the GPS relied on traditional media channels to disseminate information, leading…

Sugary beverage consumption is on the rise in Ghana, particularly among younger age groups and urban populations, according to a new study by researchers Josephine N. Nartey, Victor Obilie-Mante, and the non-profit organization Censura GHANA. This increasing trend is contributing to a surge in health issues such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and dental problems. The researchers report that sugary drinks, which are packed with calories but lack essential nutrients, are leading to significant health problems. Their study highlights a clear link between the consumption of these beverages and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Ghana, noting…

Youth unemployment is one of Ghana’s most pressing socio-economic challenges. With a significant proportion of the population under the age of 30, the issue of joblessness among the youth not only threatens individual livelihoods but also poses a risk to the country’s economic stability and social cohesion. This feature article delves into the root causes of youth unemployment in Ghana, the impact on society, and potential strategies to address this critical issue. Ghana’s youthful demographic represents both a tremendous opportunity and a daunting challenge. On one hand, the energy, creativity, and potential of young people can drive innovation and economic…

Ghana’s health care system has seen significant advancements in recent decades, improving key health indicators such as infant mortality rates and life expectancy. Despite these improvements, the system continues to grapple with numerous challenges that hinder the provision of comprehensive, equitable, and quality health care for all Ghanaians. This feature article explores the current state of Ghana’s health care system, the pressing issues that need attention, and the potential solutions to ensure the health and safety of the population. At the heart of Ghana’s health care system is a mix of public and private providers, with the government playing a…

Mount Afadja, more commonly known as Mount Afadjato, stands proudly as Ghana’s highest peak at an elevation of 885 meters (2,904 feet). Located in the lush Volta Region, near the border with Togo, Mount Afadja is a beacon of natural splendor and cultural heritage, drawing adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. The journey to Mount Afadja begins with a scenic drive through the Volta Region’s rolling hills and vibrant landscapes. As you approach the mountain, the anticipation builds, and the beauty of the surrounding forests sets the stage for the adventure ahead. The trail to the summit, though challenging, is well-maintained…

The e-HAPPY project is poised to revolutionize the agricultural sector, empowering youth with cutting-edge skills and expertise to drive growth, productivity, and prosperity. Marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s agricultural transformation, the e-HAPPY project successfully launched its inaugural welcome and orientation meeting for its pioneering cohort of e-Agri-preneurs and Coding and Front-End Developers (COFED) training under the Harnessing Agricultural Prosperity and Productivity for Youth (HAPPY) Program. The e-HAPPY project is being implemented in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and Agri-Impact Limited, and hosted by the KNUST E-Learning Centre and i-School Consult. In his welcome address, Prof. Nana Ewusi-Mensah, e-HAPPY Project…

Kenya’s leading business school, Strathmore University and AGRA inked a partnership dubbed Strathmore Agri-Food Innovation Center (SAFIC), whose aim is to catalyze the transformation of food systems in Africa. SAFIC is committed to co-designing evidence-based interventions that foster sustainable agricultural growth and innovation. This commitment extends to supporting actors in the agri-food system, including the national government, county government, private sector, and development partners. Unlocking agriculture’s full potential requires innovative, data-driven solutions and increased private sector involvement. Addressing the participants, Strathmore’s Prof Wagura Ndiritu, Associate Professor and Director, Strathmore Agri-Food Innovation Center, said the launch of SAFIC seeks to enhance…

Ghana’s “Planting for Food and Jobs” (PFJ) initiative, launched in 2017, aims to revolutionize the agricultural sector by increasing food production, creating jobs, and reducing food imports. This flagship program of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) targets smallholder farmers by providing them with subsidized inputs such as seeds and fertilizers, as well as technical support and market linkages. Given the current economic challenges facing Ghana, it is crucial to assess the progress of the PFJ initiative and identify immediate actions to enhance its effectiveness. Economic Context Ghana’s economy is experiencing significant challenges characterized by high inflation, rising public…

Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo is the current Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, a prestigious position she assumed in October 2021. She is the first female to hold this esteemed role, marking a significant milestone in the university’s history. Her appointment is a testament to her extensive academic and administrative experience, as well as her dedication to higher education and research. Professor Amfo holds a B.A. in French and Linguistics from the University of Ghana, an MPhil in Linguistics from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and a PhD in Linguistics from the same institution. Her academic journey…

Professor Eric Yirenkyi Danquah is a distinguished Professor of Plant Genetics at the Department of Crop Science, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana. With a rich academic and research background, Professor Danquah has made significant contributions to agricultural science and education in Africa and beyond. His work has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards and honors, including the University of Ghana Distinguished Award for Meritorious Service in 2013, the Global Confederation of Higher Education Associations for Agriculture and Life Sciences (GCHERA) World Agriculture Prize in 2018, the UG Meritorious Award for Outstanding Services in 2021, and the…