Africa | Elections Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example Chinedu Bruce Dec 14, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Nigerian President Bola Tinubu ABUJA — On Sunday, President Bola Tinubu encouraged West African leaders to take inspiration from Ghana’s peaceful elections as a demonstration of democracy and unity. Speaking at the 66th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS in Abuja, Tinubu praised Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo and the Ghanaian people for their successful recent elections. He called it a model for the region. Tinubu said:“I urge all of us in the region to learn from this good democratic practice and prioritise our country’s national unity to ensure political stability of the region so that this manner of peaceful transition becomes the culture of democracy not only in West Africa but also in the entire Africa continent.” Referring to Ghana’s elections on December 7, 2024, Tinubu highlighted the peaceful conduct of the polls. He noted that Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, a key candidate, and his party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accepted the results and congratulated the President-elect, John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), even before the official announcement. “This gesture, as it happened in Nigeria in 2015, demonstrates political maturity and respect for the will of the people of Ghana,” Tinubu said. Tinubu also commended Nana Akufo-Addo for his leadership in ECOWAS, calling him a dedicated Pan-Africanist. He congratulated Senegal for its successful parliamentary elections and Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayokor Botchwey, on her new role as Secretary General of the Commonwealth. Reflecting on his first term as ECOWAS Chair, Tinubu outlined key achievements, including progress in regional integration, economic growth, conflict resolution, and counterterrorism. He highlighted the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS), the Common External Tariff (CET), and regional infrastructure projects like the West African Gas Pipeline, the West Africa Power Pool, and modernized border posts. These efforts, Tinubu said, have improved regional trade and connectivity. He added:“Furthermore, our efforts in stabilising our region through peacekeeping missions currently in the Gambia and Guinea Bissau, as well as previous operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone, have demonstrated our capacity to act decisively in the face of adversity.” Tinubu also mentioned the ECOWAS Regional Action Plan on the Fight Against Terrorism, which provides a framework for countering extremism and boosting security. As ECOWAS approaches its 50th anniversary in 2025, Tinubu urged member states to renew their commitment to economic integration, peace, and prosperity. He said:“As a regional community, we must maintain our fundamental responsibility: to protect our citizens and create an enabling environment where they can prosper. As leaders, we know that security is not a luxury but a necessity. Equally, enhancing the living standards of our people is not an aspiration but an obligation.” Related Posts President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . DR.Congo PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward .

Africa Culture Italy Discover why some people celebrate Christmas on January 7th louis Buyisiwe Dec 15, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Orthodox traditions and unique 7th chrismass festivities in Ethiopia. Did you know not everyone celebrates Christmas on December 25th,for many people, especially in countries like Russia, Ethiopia, and Serbia, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. But why? The difference in dates comes from the use of two calendars. Most people follow the Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. However, some Orthodox Christians use the Julian calendar, created by Julius Caesar in 46 BC. Over time, the Julian calendar fell out of sync with the sun, creating a 13-day difference. When the Gregorian calendar was adopted, Western Christian churches fixed Christmas on December 25th. However, Orthodox Christians in countries like Russia, Ethiopia, Ukraine, and Serbia kept using the Julian calendar. For them, December 25th on the Julian calendar equals January 7th on the Gregorian calendar. Who celebrates Christmas on January 7th? Orthodox Christians are the main groups who celebrate on January 7th. Countries like Russia, Ethiopia, Ukraine, Serbia, and parts of Greece have festive traditions on this day. In Ethiopia, this day is called Ganna and includes church services and family gatherings. In Russia, it begins with a religious service and ends with a big feast. Orthodox communities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East also mark this date to honor the birth of Jesus Christ. How is it celebrated? Christmas on January 7th is a deeply spiritual event. Many people fast before the day to prepare themselves. Celebrations start with long church services filled with hymns and prayers. Families then come together for meals, exchange gifts, and enjoy time together. No matter the date, Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Jesus and the spirit of unity and love. Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example DR.Congo PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward Top News Related Posts President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo

Africa | International Politics Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies Bahati shalom Dec 13, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link President william ruto duringthe KDF pass-out parade in uasin Gishu county on may 15, 2024 President William Ruto has shed light on a two-month engagement with Kenya’s military leadership, inspired by guidance from former President Uhuru Kenyatta. During the Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary celebration held at the Kenya Navy Base in Mtongwe, Mombasa, on December 14, Ruto disclosed that Uhuru gave him crucial advice before leaving office. According to Ruto, the advice focused on enhancing the country’s security agencies, including the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), by upgrading their capabilities. “For resources that become available, modernise our security agencies,” Ruto quoted Uhuru as saying. Ruto explained that he had spent the past two months consulting with senior military leaders, including Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya, to explore ways to strengthen the military. The president emphasised that modernisation would ensure that the KDF remains ready to handle security threats swiftly and effectively. “Our country’s progress depends on peace, security, and stability. Without these, all our efforts as a nation would be at risk,” Ruto said. He commended the sacrifices and contributions of former military officers, recognising their role in shaping the KDF’s current achievements. "I honour your dedication, bravery, and sacrifice, which form the bedrock of our success today. The Kenyan nation thanks you for your patriotic service," he remarked. Ruto urged KDF personnel to maintain professionalism, integrity, and excellence as they carry out their duties. In his speech, the president expressed optimism about Kenya’s economic recovery, noting that the government had made progress in addressing key challenges. He pointed to the stabilisation of the Kenyan shilling, lower inflation rates, and reduced prices of essential goods as signs of improvement. “Development going forward is going to be anchored on peace, security, and stability,” he concluded. Related Posts PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya DR.Congo PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations .

Africa Geopolitics DR.Congo PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists Bahati shalom Dec 15, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link PRESS RELEASE Postponement of the December 15 Summit: Rwanda’s New Condition Derails the Peace Process Kinshasa, December 15, 2024 – The Democratic Republic of the Congo takes note of the failure to hold the tripartite summit convened by Angolan mediation on Sunday, December 15, 2024, as part of the Luanda Peace Process. The purpose of the summit was to adopt the agreement previously prepared and negotiated by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, and Rwanda. During the ministerial meeting held on Saturday, December 14, Rwanda introduced a last-minute condition prior to the signing of the agreement: the requirement for direct dialogue between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the terrorist group M23. This constitutes a deliberate obstruction and a major setback to the efforts undertaken to successfully conclude the Luanda Process, initiated by the African Union and supported by the United Nations Security Council since July 2022. By introducing this last-minute condition, contrary to previous discussions, Rwanda once again demonstrates its unconditional support for the M23, a terrorist group implicated in serious human rights violations and destabilizing activities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This irresponsible stance endangers peace and jeopardizes the major progress achieved, notably the signing of an operational plan allowing, on the one hand, the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese territory and, on the other hand, the disarmament and neutralization of the FDLR. The Democratic Republic of Congo condemns this new bad faith maneuver, which once again reveals Rwanda’s lack of genuine willingness to commit to a sincere peace process. This behavior not only harms regional stability but also constitutes a violation of principles agreed upon in the framework of international and regional initiatives. While saluting the crucial role of His Excellency President João Lourenço in mediation efforts, the Democratic Republic of Congo calls on the international community to consider the consequences of this failure and to act firmly in response to Rwanda’s attitude. The Democratic Republic of Congo reaffirms its commitment to continuing efforts to restore a just and lasting peace in the Great Lakes through the Luanda process. Kinshasa, December 15, 2024 The Presidency of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Related Posts PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya DR.Congo PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations .

Africa Economy Kenya Fuel prices drop as EPRA reduces super petrol by Sh4.37, diesel by Sh3, and kerosene by Sh3, bringing relief to Kenyan motorists Bahati shalom Dec 14, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Fuel prices have dropped following the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority Fuel prices have dropped following the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). The cost of super petrol has gone down by Sh4.37, while diesel and kerosene prices have decreased by Sh3 each. In Nairobi, the new prices are Sh176.29 per litre for super petrol, Sh165.06 per litre for diesel, and Sh148.39 per litre for kerosene. In Mombasa, super petrol will now cost Sh173.05 per litre, diesel Sh161.82 per litre, and kerosene Sh145.15 per litre. Nakuru residents will pay Sh175.51 per litre for super petrol, Sh164.63 per litre for diesel, and Sh148.01 per litre for kerosene. EPRA’s statement, released on Saturday, December 14, explained that the updated prices include a 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) as outlined in the Finance Act 2023, along with adjustments under the Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020 and the inflation-linked excise duty updates per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020. “The average landed cost of imported Super Petrol decreased by 4.46% from US$641.14 per cubic metre in October 2024 to US$612.53 per cubic metre in November 2024,” the statement said. These new prices will apply starting tomorrow and remain in place until January 14, 2025. Notably, EPRA made no adjustments to fuel prices in November, following its October review. DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies Top News Related Posts North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies . Kenya

Africa | Domestic Politics Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations Bahati shalom Dec 14, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link President William Ruto attended the Kenya Navy's 60th anniversary at the Mtongwe Naval Base in Mombasa on December 14, 2024 The Kenya Navy, established on December 12, 1964, a year after Kenya gained independence, marked its 60th anniversary with colorful celebrations on December 14, 2024, at the Mtongwe naval base in Mombasa. President William Ruto joined the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) for this significant event, accompanied by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Chief of Defence Forces Charles Kahariri. During the ceremony, President Ruto honored fallen Kenya Navy officers by laying a wreath. He also inspected a guard of honor mounted by Kenya Navy officers. The Kenya Navy, as one of the three branches of the KDF, plays a vital role in protecting the country's maritime boundaries. The anniversary celebrated the service's achievements and its contributions to national defense and maritime security. Ruto's presence highlighted the importance of the Kenya Navy’s role in ensuring the safety of Kenya’s waters. Related Posts North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies . Kenya DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies .

Africa Politics Ghana EC invalidates parliamentary results in Dome Kwabenya, Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, and Tema Central Agyeman Joshua Dec 14, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The Electoral Commission (EC) has said the parliamentary results for four areas are not valid The Electoral Commission (EC) has said the parliamentary results for four areas—Dome Kwabenya, Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, and Tema Central—are not valid. This happened because the voting did not follow the correct rules. The EC's Deputy Chairperson, Samuel Tettey, spoke about this on Friday, December 13, 2024. He explained that out of 12 areas needing a recount, only three—Suhum, Akwatia, and Fanteakwa North—have been sorted out successfully. The recount for other places, like Ahafo Ano South West, Ahafo Ano North, Obuasi East, and Techiman South, has not yet been done. He said, “It is important to note that the re-collation in the following constituencies, namely Dome Kwabenya, Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, and Tema Central, did not follow the laid-down processes as enshrined in CI 127, despite police presence at the collation centres to facilitate the re-collation.” Tettey also explained that in these four places, party members disrupted the process and forced EC workers to announce results for their candidates. This goes against the rules in CI 127. He added that EC workers were under pressure and could not follow the right steps. Because of this, the results in these four areas are illegal and cannot be accepted. DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies Top News Related Posts North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies . Kenya

Africa Politics Nigeria INEC debunks rumors of Chairman Mahmood Yakubu's death, confirming he is alive Bahati shalom Dec 14, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed rumors about the death of its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, urging the public to ignore the false reports. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, issued a statement on Saturday clarifying that Professor Yakubu is alive and in good health. The rumors, which claimed the Chairman had passed away in a London hospital, first surfaced on social media on December 9, 2024. “We hereby appeal to the public to disregard the rumour. Prof. Yakubu is alive, hale and hearty. In fact, he has not travelled to London in the last two years," the statement said. To further disprove the claims, Oyekanmi highlighted Yakubu’s recent activities, including attending an interactive meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on December 11 and chairing a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners on December 12. Both events were widely reported and covered by the media. The statement also reminded the public of a similar false story about Yakubu’s death circulated in 2021. "Three years later, they are spreading the same rumour again," Oyekanmi noted, cautioning against the spread of such misinformation due to its potential harm to individuals and society. INEC reassured Nigerians that the Commission remains committed to its responsibilities, despite these distractions. DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies Top News Related Posts North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies . Kenya

Africa War in DRC DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero Mbeki edmond Dec 14, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Second Lieutenant Mbuyi Kalonji Reagan announced that the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and their allies, the Wazalendo, have neutralized more than fifteen M23/RDF rebels in the Lubero territory (North Kivu). This operation was a response to clashes reported on Thursday in the Bamate chiefdom. "On the second day of our response to attacks by the M23/RDF terrorists, more than fifteen of their elements were neutralized in the agglomeration of Luofu, a town located in the southern part of the Lubero territory," he declared. Je Suis Wazalendo" Patriotic Mug - Unite for the DRC Buy Now In addition to eliminating these rebels, the loyalist army recovered various war materials from the enemy. "Several AK-47 rifles, PKM machine guns, mortars, and other military equipment belonging to the attackers were recovered by the national army," he added. The spokesperson for the Front Nord operational sector emphasized that the enemy forces "could not withstand the firepower of the FARDC-Wazalendo coalition," highlighting the effectiveness of their coordinated response. Related Posts North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies . Kenya DR.Congo North Kivu: Army neutralizes more than 15 Rwandan M23 terrorists in Lubero . DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies .

Africa Politics DR.Congo Belgium found guilty of war crimes against the Congolese Serge Kabongo Dec 14, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link King Leopold II and evidence of atrocities in the Congo Free State, where Congolese people were brutally punished, including having their hands severed. Brussels’ Appeal Court has ruled that Belgium committed serious crimes during the colonial era by abducting mixed-race children from their African mothers. This case was brought forward by five women who were taken from their families in the Democratic Republic of Congo (then Belgian Congo) between 1948 and 1953. The court overturned a 2021 lower court decision that had sided with the state. It ordered Belgium to pay €50,000 to each of the five women as compensation for the trauma they suffered. Je Suis Wazalendo" Patriotic Mug - Unite for the DRC Buy Now These abductions were part of the colonial government’s racial segregation policies, which banned marriages between White and Black people. Between 1948 and 1962, an estimated 15,000 mixed-race children were forcibly taken from their mothers. Many were placed in Catholic orphanages or sent to Belgium for adoption. These children faced abuse, discrimination, and a loss of identity. Their names were often changed, cutting them off from their roots and culture. This policy was one of many brutal practices under Belgium’s colonial rule in Congo, which lasted from 1885 to 1960. This ruling is a step toward acknowledging the lasting harm caused by colonialism and giving justice to its victims. South Africa Malema’s EFF Gears Up for New Leadership DR.Congo The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward Kenya Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies Top News Related Posts Malema’s EFF Gears Up for New Leadership . South Africa The Luanda Process: Challenges and the Path Forward . DR.Congo Ruto Joins Kenya Navy's 60th Anniversary Celebrations . Kenya President Ruto reveals advice from Uhuru to modernize Kenya’s security agencies . Kenya

Africa Culture Ghana John Mahama's new term offers a chance to transform Ghana’s tourism Agyeman Joshua Dec 14, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link John Dramani Mahama has a renewed opportunity to lead transformational change Ghana’s tourism sector holds immense potential for economic growth and cultural promotion, yet it demands decisive action and strategic planning. With a clear victory—garnering over 56% of votes and a two-thirds majority in Parliament—John Dramani Mahama has a renewed opportunity to lead transformational change. As he takes office on January 7, 2025, tourism must become a priority, aiming for 2.5 million annual visitors and fostering a national tourism-driven mindset. Here are six strategic pillars Mahama’s administration should focus on to position Ghana as a premier tourism destination: 1. Combat Galamsey to Revive Ecotourism Illegal mining, or galamsey, has damaged Ghana’s environment, polluting rivers and destroying wildlife habitats. To attract eco-conscious travelers, Mahama must enforce strict anti-galamsey laws and rehabilitate affected areas. Iconic sites like Mole National Park, Kakum Canopy Walkway, and Volta Region’s waterfalls need protection to secure sustainable income for local communities. 2. Establish a National Carrier and Aviation Hub Tourism thrives on accessibility, and Ghana needs a strong national airline to transform Kotoka International Airport into West Africa’s leading aviation hub. Drawing lessons from Togo’s Lomé hub, Mahama can connect Ghana to global markets through investments in airport infrastructure and regional airline partnerships. 3. Simplify Ghana’s Visa Process A streamlined visa regime is essential to boost Ghana’s appeal. Inspired by nations like Rwanda and Seychelles, Mahama could implement electronic travel authorizations (ETA) and abolish visa requirements for most countries. Non-ECOWAS travelers could pay a small ETA fee, making Ghana more welcoming while generating revenue. 4. Position Ghana as a MICE Hub The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector can diversify Ghana’s economy. Building a world-class convention center and marketing Ghana to international organizations such as the African Union and United Nations would make the country a go-to destination for global events. 5. Empower Communities Through Tourism For sustainable tourism, local communities must play an active role. Initiatives like cooperative management of heritage sites, community-based tourism projects, and fair revenue-sharing systems can encourage preservation and cultural promotion while enriching the visitor experience. 6. Leverage the ‘Year of Return’ Legacy The Year of Return connected Ghana to the African diaspora, creating cultural and economic benefits. Mahama should expand these programs beyond December, promoting Ghana as a year-round destination for diaspora engagement through festivals, heritage sites, and cultural experiences. A Bright Future for Ghana’s Tourism Tourism can reshape Ghana’s economy, create jobs, and enhance its global image. By tackling environmental challenges, investing in infrastructure, reforming visa policies, empowering communities, and building on the Year of Return, Mahama’s administration can elevate Ghana into Africa’s tourism elite. The next four years are a golden opportunity for Ghana’s tourism renaissance—let the journey begin. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana

Africa Politics Ghana Volta Region rallies for peace ahead of Ghana's 2024 elections Agyeman Joshua Dec 2, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link This event aimed to ensure peaceful elections and safeguard Ghana’s democratic reputation The Volta Region has intensified efforts to promote peace ahead of Ghana’s December 7, 2024, elections. On Saturday, the Volta Regional Peace Council, working with political parties, government institutions, and civil society groups, organized a peace walk through Ho’s streets. This event aimed to ensure peaceful elections and safeguard Ghana’s democratic reputation. Special voting begins on December 2, prompting nationwide appeals for calm and order. Rev. Seth Mawutor, Chairman of the Peace Council, urged politicians to uphold democratic principles and avoid violence. “You don’t have to fight to serve this country. Use your thumbprint. Let’s ensure peace prevails,” he said. He also cautioned youths against being manipulated to cause unrest. The Volta Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Alfa Anas Hamidu, echoed these sentiments, calling on Zongo youths to reject violence. “As Muslims, we should promote peace,” he stressed. Among participants was Mr. Mawulorm Klutse, Independent Parliamentary Candidate for Ho Central, who appealed for peaceful elections and acceptance of results. “I encourage every political party to accept the outcome of the election results,” he said. The event concluded at Ho Jubilee Park with fitness exercises led by the 66 Artillery Regiment, reinforcing the spirit of unity and peace. DR.Congo Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe Kenya Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects Ghana Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team Top News Related Posts Eleventh day of fighting south of Lubero, the FARDC chases Rwandan M23 terrorists from Matembe . DR.Congo Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections . Kenya President Ruto urges Kenyans to embrace factual criticism, defend progress on development projects . Kenya Julius Debrah, Doe Adjaho, and Others: Mahama's Transition Dream Team . Ghana