His Royal Highness, Ubor Bowan John Mateer Sakojim IV, The Paramount Chief for Saboba Traditional Area, has called for peace to prevail in Zogbie, Mion District, Northern Region of Ghana following the resent reported eruption of violence in the said community.
He has also called on all Dagombas and Konkonbas to at this difficult times, treat the most unfortunate incident as localized and isolated and never as war between the two ethnic groups.
“It is with deep regret that I, Ubor Bowan John Mateer Sakojim IV, Paramount Chief of the Saboba Traditional Area, address the recent clashes between Dagombas and Konkombas in the farming community of Zogbie, in the Mion District of the Northern Region of Ghana.
“These clashes, which took place on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, over a parcel of land, have unfortunately led to the loss of precious human lives.
“It is crucial that the youth refrain from making inflammatory comments that have the potential to escalate the situation. Furthermore, I urge everyone to refrain from posting falsehoods and unverified information on social media, as these actions can only serve to worsen the conflict.
‘Adherence to the rule of law is essential during these trying times. The Northern Region requires a peaceful and stable environment to foster development. I implore the security services detailed to restore peace to act with firmness and fairness towards all individuals involved.
“A thorough investigation must be conducted to bring the perpetrators of these acts to justice. I also call upon the chiefs and opinion leaders within the affected areas to take active steps to initiate dialogue between the feuding factions.
“Open communication and understanding are key to achieving lasting peace in our communities. Dagombas and Konkombas must not view each other as enemies. Instead, we must unite to combat our common adversaries: poverty and underdevelopment. By working together, we can build a better future for our people”
These were contained in a Press Release issued at the Palace of the Paramount Chief in Saboba,Thursday.
In its 0fficial statement issued and signed by its Director of Communications earlier in Tamale, Wednesday, the Dagbon Youth Association (DAYA) on its part had also observed with sadness, a rising tension in the Mion Traditional Area.
“We understand the tensions are due to a land dispute between Konkombas and Mion Palace. This has fast become a Konkomba-Dagomba issue according to social media commentators.
“Unconfirmed report, the statement noted, has it that this has resulted in loss of lives and injuries from both Konkombas and Dagombas. There has however been a deployment of heavy security from REGSEC to contain the situation.
“DAYA wishes to urge everyone living around the area as well as travelers along Sang-Yendi stretch of the Tamale-Yendi Road to be circumspect but remain calm and cooperate with the security personnel.
“We also wish to caution social media commentators to avoid discussing the issue and calling for social media war between Dagombas and Konkombas” the statement added.
This article presents the celebration of Fire Festival in the three main Gbewaa Kingdoms in Northern Ghana. Fire Festival is an annual festival for the people of the Gbewaa Kingdoms. It’s celebrated on the 9th day of the month of fire “Bugum Goli”. The lunar month of Fire Festival “Bugum Goli”, is the first month and beginning of a new year, just like January which is the first month of a new year.
The article will also discuss the prospects and tourism potentials for the celebration of Fire Festival, if it’s well packaged and marketed. In recent times, the way Fire Festival is being celebrated mostly by the youth, sends wrong signals to the people outside the three main Gbewaa Kingdoms. As such, people have negative perception about the celebration of the Fire Festival. This article is to educate readers on the significance of the Fire Festival.
The Genesis and Evolution of the Fire Festival.
The Fire Festival it is believed is the first Festival for the People of Dagbon (Modern Dagbon, Nanung & Mamprugu). The aboriginal Dagbamba are believed to be descendants of prophet Noah.
Fire Festival is a custom emanated from Noah’s time in commemoration of the day the Ark of Noah “rested on Mount Ararat and the people in the Ark came and made fires7”. Tamakloe also, considers the fire festival of the Dagbamba as a custom emanated from Noah’s time in commemoration of the day the Ark of Noah “rested on Mount Ararat and the people in the Ark came and made fires7”. Dagbamba tradition attributes the significance of the fire festival to Prophet Noah; they assign different reasons for the festival.
According to the tradition, when Prophet Noah was about to set out with his Ark, one of his sons got missing. A search for him was commenced. The search continued until night when the son was not yet found. Searching lights were lighted to look for him.
The significance of the Fire Festival therefore is to commemorate the search for Prophet Noah’s son. Whatever the reason, the tradition agrees that the Fire Festival relates to Prophet Noah and the Great Flood.
Furthermore, the lunar month for the Fire Festival “Bugum Goli” is the beginning of the year in the three sister Kingdoms: Dagbon, Mamprugu and Nanung.
The same month “Muharam” is the beginning of the year in Arabia. New Year resolutions are made during the festival and also pray to God for protection, guidance, and prosperity. As part of the celebration, they cut bits and pieces of cooked food and put the same short on dividing walls in their homes.
These pieces of cooked food are supposed to be food for their ancestors and deceased family members. They believed that the spirit of their ancestors visits them on this important day. As such, they have to serve them with food and meat. Every poor home in Dagbon will slaughter fowls for this important day.
The Dagomba, like the Arabs, have twelve lunar months in a year. Even though the names of their months differ, their year begins with the same month. They also end the year with the same month. The number of days in their months is equal. A month is either thirty or twenty-nine days.
The Celebration of Fire Festival.
Fire festival is celebrated on the 9th day of the month “Bugum Goli”. Sacrifices are performed at individual homes in the evening. The meat is then used to prepare meals in the evening. Bunch of grasses are tied for the celebration.
The Overlords of Dagbon, Mamprugu and Nanung will by tradition, formally inform their chief Imams as he and his team of other Muslim clerics have an important role to play in the festival.
The festival is observed at night. The Overlords will light the fire to mark the beginning of the celebration. Until the Overlords light the fire before any other person could do so.
The Overlords and all participants will be in their War Regalia. They also exhibit their weapons and dancing to the tune of War drums and singing of War and other traditional songs. They walk from the east to the west where the remains of Grass bunches are thrown away and branches of herbs are cut by all participants.
Participants move with the branches of the herbs first to the chief’s palace for fortification. They will then continue to the Chief Imam’s house for same fortification.
It is believed that the participants are directly fortified as the spiritual concoction touches their bodies. The herbs are sent to the individual homes which they boiled and used to bath children and the weak who could not participate, to be fortified. The fortification is for protection against any calamities in the new year.
It’s important to note that before the advent of Islam, traditionalists used to prepare herbal concoctions for fortification of the auras or bioenergetic bodies of the celebrants against any evil or against the adverse effects of any impending calamity. With the advent of Islam in the Gbewaa Kingdoms, the Chief Imams have since assumed this role giving an Islamic touch to the preparation of spiritual concoction for the fortification.
On the 10th day of the month “Bugum Goli” the Chief Imam and other clerics engage in private and employing Islamic methods of divination, are able to forecast, foretell or prophesy events that would unfold in the new year.
If some aspects of the forecast happen to do with any impending calamity that could negatively impact members of the community, they also prescribe what sacrifices are there to be made either by heads of the individual families, the Kings or their paramount chiefs in order to seek divine interventions so as to avert its societal impact.
Citizens in the Gbewaa Kingdoms are expected to adhere to the precautions and prescriptions associated with the esoteric induced forecasting made by the Chief Imam and his team of other Muslim clerics vested in the Islamic mystical sciences . This mark the end of the Fire Festival.
Socio-Economic and Spiritual Benefits of the Fire Festival.
Participants or celebrants gets fortified at least for a year through the bathing of the spiritual/herbal concoction.
Celebrants excise their bodies through drumming, dancing, and walking for some few kilometers.
Celebrants are able to socialize with others and make new friends during the celebration.
Youth gatherings, such as Jams and other traditional dances are also held after the celebration.
Food vendors and other entrepreneurs such as butchers, provision shops, local poultry sellers among others record high sales during the festive season.
Special prayers and sacrifices are also observed for protection and prevention of calamities/disaster that may strike
the kingdoms.
In conclusion, the Fire Festival, if it is well packaged and promoted,as an annual cultural tourism event could attract tourists and possibly investments that could inure to the socio-economic development benefit of the Gbewaa Kingdoms.
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, July 2, 2024/ — In the oil and gas industry, local content refers to the development of local industries, workforce and resources to support the operations of international oil companies (IOC) within a country. For Namibia, fostering ‘Namibian Content’ can significantly enhance economic growth, social development and technological advancement.
Leveraging Local Content to Drive Economic Growth
Local content policies can be a catalyst for economic growth by ensuring that a significant portion of the industry’s value chain is retained within the country. By promoting the use of local goods, services and labor, these policies can create a myriad of job opportunities for Namibians. This not only fosters employment but also stimulates the development of ancillary industries, such as manufacturing, logistics and services, which support the oil and gas sector.
Local content also contributes to the diversification of Namibia’s economy. By developing industries related to the oil and gas sector, the country can reduce its reliance on oil revenues and build a more resilient economy.
Additionally, local content promotes the development of skills and the transfer of knowledge to the local workforce. By involving Namibians in various aspects of the oil and gas industry, from exploration to production, they gain valuable expertise and experience.
Such policies also promote increased local participation and ownership in the oil and gas industry, while driving various social development through mandated investments in community infrastructure, education, healthcare and other social programs, thereby improving the quality of life for Namibians. Meanwhile, local content policies can also spur technological advancement and innovation.
When local firms are part of the industry’s supply chain, they are often required to meet international standards, which drives them to improve their technologies and processes. This can lead to a broader technological base in Namibia, benefiting other sectors of the economy as well.
Successfully Implementing Local Content
Successfully implementing local content policies requires various proactive measures. These include capacity building and investing in developing a skilled local workforce and capable local companies; streamlining regulatory processes to enhance compliance and boost investor confidence; and addressing bureaucratic challenges to ensure smoother operations for both international and local companies.
Additionally, providing financial incentives and investment opportunities that empower local firms; adapting to market dynamics to encourage local companies to embrace the global nature of the oil and gas industry; and ensuring high quality and standards across the market.
Continuous improvement and training programs can also help local products and services achieve the high standards required, boosting their reputation and competitiveness on the global stage. By concentrating on these key areas, local content policies can be successfully implemented, leading to sustainable growth, innovation and a thriving local industry.
Lessons Learnt from Global Partners
Lessons learnt from resource-rich nations across the world can strengthen Namibia’s local content implementation. Norway, for example, provides a prime example of how local content can lead to substantial skills development. The country’s local content regulations required IOCs to partner with Norwegian firms and train local employees.
As a result, Norway developed a highly skilled workforce and a robust oil services industry, which now competes globally. The country has consistently maintained a high employment rate within the oil and gas sector, with approximately 250,000 jobs supported by the industry.
In Angola, local content regulations have contributed to social development through initiatives like the Angolanization policy, which prioritizes hiring and training local citizens. The oil companies operating in Angola are required to invest in community projects, leading to improved healthcare facilities, schools and infrastructure in oil- producing regions.
For example, investments in the health sector have led to the construction of over 100 health centers in the country. In Brazil, the implementation of local content requirements led to the growth of the domestic shipbuilding industry, creating over 30,000 jobs and reducing the country’s dependency on foreign vessels.
Similarly, in Ghana, local content policies in the oil sector have resulted in increased employment, with over 7,000 direct jobs created since the inception of the policies, and the establishment of new businesses to service the industry.
Additionally, Nigeria’s local content law has significantly increased local participation in the oil and gas industry. The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has overseen the growth of indigenous oil companies and service providers, ensuring that a significant portion of the industry’s value is retained within Nigeria. The NCDMB’s efforts have resulted in an increase in local participation from 5% to over 30% in the past decade.
Meanwhile, Malaysia’s approach to local content has facilitated economic diversification. The country’s Petronas-led initiatives ensured that local companies were integrated into the oil and gas supply chain, leading to the growth of Malaysia’s engineering and construction sectors. Today, these sectors contribute significantly to the national economy, with the oil and gas industry supporting over 200,000 jobs.
Qatar has also implemented local content policies to ensure that its citizens benefit from the country’s substantial oil and gas wealth. The country’s Qatarization policy aims to increase the number of Qatari nationals employed in the energy sector to 50%.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has also seen success with its local content initiatives. The In-Country Value (ICV) program, launched by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, aims to support local businesses and create jobs for UAE nationals. The ICV program has driven over $20 billion back into the UAE economy and created thousands of jobs for Emiratis.
As such, the benefits of local content in Namibia’s oil and gas sector are manifold. By focusing on economic growth, skills development, economic diversification, increased local participation, social development and technological advancement, Namibia can ensure that its oil and gas resources are a blessing for its population of three million.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
ACCRA, Ghana, May 9, 2024/ — With Africa losing US$4 billion annually to cybercrime, the aggressors of the digital realm are gaining the upper hand. GITEX AFRICA 2024 (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent’s largest tech and startup exhibition, taking place from 29-31 May in Marrakech, Morocco, provides a platform for leaders and executives of Africa’s tech ecosystem to share insights on cybersecurity’s crucial role in Africa’s digital economy.
Cybersecurity Threats Accompany Digital Transformation
As Ghana’s digital economy continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with an ever-increasing reliance on digital infrastructure, so too does the inevitable exposure to cybersecurity and data protection threats.
Acknowledging the paramount importance of cybersecurity and its role in protecting sensitive information, preserving trust, and contributing to the resilience of digital infrastructure, Ghana is proactively and strategically working to enhance its cyber resilience.
This strategic insight has resulted in the Global Cybersecurity Index ranking Ghana third amongst countries on the continent in terms of its commitment to cybersecurity.
Topics under discussion at the GITEX Africa Cybersecurity Forum include the role of high data costs in security vulnerability, Africa’s shortage of cybersecurity professionals, and the impact of poor security measures. Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director General of Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority, will share his insights on how Ghana is tackling these challenges.
A Proactive Approach to Safeguarding Digital Infrastructure
As early as 2015, the Ghanaian government developed the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy, reflecting the maturity of the country’s approach. In the following years, recognizing the importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding the country’s 24 million internet users (https://apo-opa.co/3JSm8sr#prId=302858),
Ghana has implemented a number of key steps, including enacting the Cybersecurity Act 2020, which provides for the protection of critical information infrastructure, the prosecution of cybercrimes, and the protection of children online.
This Act is a significant step towards creating a safer cyber environment in Ghana, and has resulted in the establishment of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) (https://apo-opa.co/4buq3r9#prId=302858), which regulates and promotes cybersecurity in the country.
Building capacity and creating public awareness, ongoing research and development, and international cooperation are key elements of Ghana’s cybersecurity strategy. This includes developing a skilled workforce of cybersecurity professionals, and educating the public about the importance of cybersecurity and how they can mitigate it. This takes the form of workshops, seminars, and media campaigns.
Universities and research institutions in Ghana are also focusing on cybersecurity research to foster innovation and develop solutions to cyber threats. In addition, collaborations with other countries, international organizations, and private sector entities all contribute to the country’s cyber resilience.
As Ghana continues to strengthen its cybersecurity framework, its potential as a destination for partners and investors looking for a reliable and safe digital landscape grows, positioning the country as a hub for technological advancement in Africa.
Powering Ghana’s digital future
The tens of thousands of attendees from 130-plus countries to GITEX Africa can look forward to hearing more insights on Ghana’s advancements in digital health from Darlington Akogo, Co-founder and CEO of minoHealth AI Labs, who is among more than 20 leading tech speakers from Ghana.
The nation’s giant strides in AI diffusion and tech-driven urban development will also come to the fore when Hon. Elizabeth Sackey, Mayor of Accra Metropolitan Assembly takes the stage at the GITEX Africa Digital Summit.
Rocky Dawuni, Musician, Singer-song Writer, and UN Goodwill Ambassador for the Environment for Africa, is another headline Ghanaian speaker, while the country’s vibrant start-up scene will be ably represented by some of the country’s premier award-winning start-ups, including Trotro Tractor, Winner of the KIC Agritech Challenge.
Today we bring you the Part Two and final on the efforts of two change agents at re-designing the Togo, rural Built Environment for sustainability. An initiative that was to get full buy-in of Nor “Wester Rotary Grant,US.
Dignity Toilets are zero water usage and are climate smart for that matter. The dwindling water stock levels of aquatic or fresh water systems the result of climate change impact, continue to raise concerns globally and more so, in African rural communities that tend to be the most hard hit.
Leveraging innovation and research driven technological solutions would therefore be highly crucial in re-designing the African Rural Built Environment for sustainability.
Now for the rest of the story, read on
Reaching out to Rotary Club
“By the time we had done eight (8) we had the system down and could duplicate the design consistently. That is when I approached my Rotary Club and asked them to take on the project. They agreed” Doc Reiss recounts
Kathi Jellicoe Pressley, Nor ’Wester Rotary Grant, US, Writer, recounts the humble beginning of the Dignity toilet project in Togo by Tao and Doc Reiss before the Rotary take-over
“Toilet No1 gifted to a friend in Zogbedgi, a poor rural village in Southern Togo, Africa.Neighbours sign up to have one built for their families in 2015. In 2016 eighty (8) toilets for twenty-four (24) waiting families was financed through donations.
Moving the Project Forward by Rotary
In chronological order, Kathi presents the role of Rotary in the Dignity Toilets Togo project since its takeover of the project in 2017 up till date.
“In 2017 Nor ‘Wester Rotary Club hires local men and train them to build eco-san toilet. Dignity Toilet Togo, established as an NGO by the crew to help Rotary get grants leading to the construction of fifteen (15) toilets and twenty-three Dignity Toilets(DTs).
Initial constructional Stage of a Dignity Toilet in Klobatem,rural Southern TogoStage TwoDignity Toilet is ready with Tao and Doc Reiss in a Pose with BeneficiariesSandrine Plathey,member of the Video Team,New World TV,France,offering a voluntary helping hand
“In 2018 thirty (30) toilets and 53 DTs were constructed through Nor ‘Wester District grants, private and club donations. Nearby Klobathem added to the service area.
“2019, recorded forty-five (45) toilets and ninety-eight (98 DTs) as word continued to spread and building continued, and the outcome was, 700 people no longer “visit the bushes” Area eight (8) global grant also approved.
“In 2020 project work impaired due to COVID-19 impact via border closure, doctor shortage and no work to provide for families. Nonetheless, six (6) Toilets and one hundred and four (104) DTs were added.
“In 2021 sixteen (16) Toilets and one hundred and twenty-two (122) DTs were added while Doc Reiss moves to Ghana and funds donated from Nor ‘Wester. Nor ‘Wester Rotary and six (6) Districts Clubs create new model for global grants. Global Grant received and ultimately cancelled due to failure of Host Club to follow the terms of the MOU.
“In 2023 fourteen (14) Toilets/one hundred and thirty-six (136) DTs added as Nor ‘Wester Rotary receives District grants. One thousand, one hundred (1,100) people were impacted including two male crew members and one (1) woman for education on how to utilize and manage the toilet. Women and children tend to be the most impacted under living conditions lacking toilet facilities.
“In 2023, twenty-eight (28) Toilets and one hundred and sixty-four (164) DTs were added. Area 8 global grant approved, Lomé Racine signs MOU, two crew salaried completed and Quality Program Fertilizer Test done
“As of April,2024 forty-four (44) toilets were added totaling one hundred and eighty (180) DTs positively impacting the lives of one thousand four hundred and ninety-eight (1,498 people
“Eight (8) DTs is currently in process with two crews salaried-an assistant for the Director of Dignity Toilets Togo, Taouvik and one (1) woman for education.
Three (3) professionals, carpenter, Ironworker and plumber on contract” Kathi wraps up her project progress report in a chronological order.
Global Grant Input
“We have a global grant now because of the combined efforts of the clubs in our area and are building at a rate of 8 a month. Much as I would like to take credit for the global grant and the upsurge in building, that has been Kathi” Doc Reiss appreciates Kathi of Nor” Wester Rotary Club.
The Urine Fertilizer Dimension of DTs
Doc Reiss further appreciates the takeover of Rotary with Kathi in charge. “It is under her direction that things have blossomed. A while back I learned that it was possible to take urine and turn it into fertilizer. I sent Tao to Malawi to learn how to do it from a fellow named Goodfellow Phiri.
“Goodfellow has a business that started with five 200 liter tanks. He now has 100. he taught Tao. No one has ever built for the families before. We are truly grassroots.
“People usually show up, do something with their own people and leave. One day Tao told me, “The difference between you and those guys is that they do something for the village. You do something with the village.”
“We never meant to start as a project. We just did what we needed to do to make things work and in the process created a unique project. Now I want to marry the DT (Dignity Toilet) project to fertilizer production” Doc Reiss intimated.
The Urine for Fertilizer Dimension of DTs
“We have had test fields prove successful. We are stockpiling the urine and will soon be selling it to local farmers to help them rebuild their soils at a rate about 40% cheaper than commercial fertilizer.
“Once we have the system up and running we will take the profits from the fertilizer and use it to offset the cost of future toilets which will give us more fertilizer which will give us more toilets.
Creating a Self-Financing System for DTs
“By putting the two together we will create a self-financing toilet project that can be transplanted to anywhere in rural Africa and start rebuilding the soils for a better future and healthier families.
Multiple Benefits of DTs
“One toilet reduces ground water pollution, lowers cholera and other diseases, and provides safety for women and children. and it gives dignity to the family.
“Also women no longer have to wait until dusk for modesty sake which lowers the number of urinary tract infections. Now when a guest needs to go to the bathroom during a visit they do not have to go find a field.
Going Green with DTs,the Economics
“I must confess it is because of Daniel and Agent Konte that I started looking into going green. If you contact anyone I am telling you about and you say you were talking to me about toilets they will know exactly what is going on.
“And by going green we will be able to add another potential funding source (making bricks and blocks) as well as make the toilets more affordable to more families. It also gives us the chance to hire more people” Doc notes with great satisfaction.
Taouvik Boukari, the Director of Dignity Toilets, Togo, on his part, presents the social-economic and, environmental impact of the dignity toilets in the project catchment area in Togo.
Social Impact of DTs in Rural Togo
Taouvik, Dignity Toilet Project Director, Togo says, for the people of the village, kegue ZOGBEDJI, the social impact is that, DTs, has changed many things-no smell, no poop everywhere like before, and the village has become clean. The people like it so much, and more people come to stay in the village
Health Impact
“With regards to the health impact, clean area brings more good health, no much mosquitos like before, no much sickness, people have better life, good health, no more defecations everywhere,
Environmental Impact
“Environmental impact wise, toilets protect environment no offensive odours, save water wastage as DT don’t need water, clean, DT protect the environment too
Economic Impact
“On the economic, impact people will save money from evacuations of their local toilets, because DT is ecology toilet, and they will make more money in using fertilizer which DT gives them.
Rural Community Beneficiaries Response
“The rural community never stop thanking us for this big opportunity we bring, and changed many people lives; we are like heroes in the community
Ongoing Projects
“Now we are building 178th toiles in three villages, Zogbedji, Klobatem and
Yayirakome” Taouvik further updates.
The Way Forward
On future plans of Dignity Toilets Togo, Tao had this to say, “In the future we are thinking to training more people have more crew, give jobs to more people and develop urine fertilizer. We collect urine from DTs and sell to make money and use that more pay people and do new toilets to continue helping communities”
DTs for Ghana
Doc. Reiss also discloses that Ghana is next after Togo for replication of the Dignity Toilet, Togo project and that he is sourcing a UN grant funding for that .In Ghana, he says, he knows of a village with 300 families needing toilet facilities. Another area in Northern Ghana he disclosed need 9,000 toilets.
Real estate investment in Ghana has become an increasingly attractive option for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and tap into the country’s promising real estate industry, the country with a stable political environment, a young and rapidly urbanizing population, and rising incomes, Ghana’s real estate sector presents exciting opportunities in all categories of real estate, the residential, commercial, and industrial properties. This is a series brought to you by the Africa Continental Engineering & Construction Network Ltd (www.acecnltd.com) that seeks to provide asystematic exposition on the real estate investment opportunities in Africa. Today’s article is part one (1) and we shall be examining five (5) fundamental factors (indices) that positions Ghana strategically, as the most preferred destination for real estate investment in Africa. The Ghanaian political environment, rate of urbanization, middle class growth, Ghana as the African hub for tertiary education and most importantly, Ghana’s housing deficit.
Purpose
The purpose is to help potential investors make informed decisions in the event they so wish to venture into the African real estate market, for that matter the Ghanaian market. Now, take a seat, grab a glass of chilled drinks and come along with us as we run you down a data driven analysis on the prospects of real estate investment in Ghana.
1.Ghana’s Political Environment
First and foremost is the Ghanaian political environment, since the adoption of the 1992 constitution, Ghana have enjoyed political stability and have become a global center of attraction and a case study for many African nations and beyond. It is therefore not by chance that the Global Peace Index (2022) ranked Ghana as the 2nd most peaceful country in Sub-Saharan Africa among 46 others, top six (6) most peaceful countries in Africa and the 40th most peaceful country in the world out of 163. This guarantees security at all levels and gives confidence to the investor community that every dollar worth of investment within the shores of Ghana is secured regardless of which political party is in government. The supremacy of the constitution and the rule of law ensured the checks and balances among the arms of government. The Police Service, the Army, the National Security and all other state institutions mandated to keep democratic balance and political stability have always worked in synchrony, thereby placing Ghana ahead of its peers in Africa to emerge as the most preferred African state for both local and foreign direct investment, of which real estate investment is not an exception.
2.Ghana’s Housing Deficit
In addition to the stable political environment, the Ghana Housing Deficit presents a profound real estate investment opportunity. According to the Ghana Statistical Service (2022), Ghana’s housing deficit stood at a staggering rate of 1.8 million. This has made the provision of more affordable housing options for urban dwellers a big challenge for the Ghanaian government.
State Intervention
The state has over the years undertaken a few housing projects and policy interventions in attempt to bridge the gap, however, this was quite unsuccessful as the deficit continue to grow with time. Efforts have been made by private individuals which contributes but little to closing the gap, leaving the few private institutional developers a huge housing supply gap to meet.
Private Developer’s Input
GREDA (Ghana Real Estate Developers Association) appears to be the only beacon of hope if the housing supply will ever meet the demand. But for potential investors to appreciate where the investment jackpot lies within the property supply landscape in Ghana, we would like to run you through a brief but empirical analysis.
Property Development Mix
There are currently about one hundred and forty (140) private real estate developers in good standing in Ghana according to GREDA real estate journal (2023). The 140 have various specialties within the sector, that is to say it is not all of them that are into residential property development.
Analysis
However, for the purpose of this analysis, we shall assume that all of them develop residential properties.
What this implies essentially is that, each developer will have to develop approximately thirteen thousand (13,000) housing units, though not feasible, within the year to be able to bridge the 1.8million gap. This shows how huge the real estate investment opportunity is, in Ghana that cannot be compared to any other destination in Africa.
3.Increasing Urbanization Rate
Moreover, another index worth mentioning is Ghana’s increasing rate of urbanization, according to Urban Land Institute, London (2018), urbanization leads to high demand for housing in urban centers thereby putting pressure on residential properties and consequentially leading to high rates of rent in the urban centers across the world.
It was against this backdrop that we decided to explore the rate of urbanization in Ghana and its impact on real estate investment opportunities. Ghana’s increasing rate of urbanization is another index that gives prospects to real estate investment particularly in Ghana’s urban centers across the country
A recent observation made by our outfit, the Africa Continental Engineering & Construction Network (ACECN) on some selected African countries points to the fact that Ghana has the highest rate of urbanization, (ACECN, 2024).
This again positions Ghana as the most preferred destination for real estate investment in Africa. The figure below is the graphical representation of the rates of urbanization with Ghana topping the list with 58.62% in 2022.
4.Growing Middle Class
Also, the ever-growing middle class is another crucial index worth considering, Africa is developing faster than it was in the 20th century, it is therefore not a surprise to see many economic indicators assuming positive resilience across the African continent.
Ghana have had its share of this rapid development over the years. In 2013, the African Development Bank (AfDB) published that about 46% of Ghanaians are now classified as middle class compared to a continent-wide average of 34.3%.
Eleven years down the line, this may have grown above 50% except the gains eroded by the two-year COVID-19 pandemic. It is also interesting to know that majority of these middle class live and work in the cities particularly the national capital, Accra.
This has put a lot of pressure on residential facilities in Accra leading to the prohibitive rental prices recorded consistently over the period. This again demonstrates how huge and promising the prospects of real estate investment are, in Ghana using the capital city in particular as a destination
Besides, Ghana’s sudden transformation into Africa’s Hub for Tertiary Education also contributes significantly to the sector investment opportunities. According to the National Council for Tertiary Education (2016) Ghana has positioned itself as one of the major providers of quality higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa.
For the past decade, Ghana has enacted policies, which have indicated to the global community, the strong intention to enhance the competitiveness of our tertiary education system. For this reason, the quota-based admission policy for foreign students was lifted in both private and public institutions.
This opened the floodgate to students and faculty of countries within Sub-Saharan Africa including Nigeria, Cameroon, Guinea, Gabon, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Congo Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Togo, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Zambia, Gambia, Rwanda and some East and southern African Countries.
This trend has skyrocketed the housing demand in the cities making property investment in Ghana exceptionally profitable. The trend gave birth to AirBnB which has gained its popularity in recent times, a term given to short term rentals for private residential facilities often targeted at consultants, business men, students, diplomats’ expatriates et cetera. AirBnB within the city of Accra is one of the rewarding property investment portfolios currently.
5.Rapid Population Growth
Last but not least, Ghana’s rapid population growth is another index that drives housing demand significantly.
The current population in 2024 stood at 35million approximately and is projected to reach 39million by 2030 as against a projected housing deficit of 4.2million by same year. Mention is not made yet of the black race around the world who are tracing their root back home and many settlings in and naturalizing in Ghana because of the political stability the country has enjoyed since independence.
This exodus of the black race to Ghana as their home was motivated by a conscious state policy dubbed, “the year of return” in 2019. Ever since, many interventions such as “beyond the return” and some other state programs aimed at supporting these diasporas assimilate into the Ghanaian system seamlessly.
That notwithstanding, several measures have also been put in place as an incentive to enable more returnees including citizens of fellow African countries migrating to Ghana to naturalize. Taking Nigeria for instance, about 77,000 Nigerians live and work in Ghana as reported by Statista (2021) and all these needs descent accommodation around the cities making property investment in Ghana more profitable than ever.
In conclusion, all indices points to the fact that Ghana tops the list and remains the most profitable destination for real estate investment in Africa. Subscribe and follow the Global African Times Magazine for part two (2) and subsequent articles in the series.
ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, April 8, 2024/ — The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org), through its Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund (YEI MDTF) (https://apo-opa.co/3J81Cnx), has approved a $999,000 grant to support an initiative to foster green jobs for women, youth and people with disabilities.
The Strengthening Women, Youth and People with Disabilities’ Micro-Entrepreneurship for Green Jobs (https://apo-opa.co/3U9MFqb) in Natural Resources (MicroGREEN) project aims to foster inclusive economic growth by providing up to 500 green job opportunities and business development services to marginalized groups in Ghana and Senegal.
The target reach group includes women, youth and people with disabilities/special needs, engaged in managing natural resource sectors such as agroforestry, fisheries and biodiversity.
The MicroGreen project, to be implemented over two years, will empower with entrepreneurship capacities and business skills at least 1,000 youth aged 15-35 years with female youth-led (60%) , people with disabilities/special needs ( 10%) and other youth (30%) in both countries.
By focusing on capacity building and utilizing value chain-based SME development models, the project endeavors to enhance employment creation, ensure the sustainability of micro-enterprises, and integrate beneficiaries into the economic systems.
Implemented by Invest in Africa (www.InvestinAfrica.com), a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering African SME growth and creating prosperous economies across the continent, the MicroGREEN project will leverage its expertise in market access, skills development, and access to finance to drive sustainable business growth and job creation in Ghana and Senegal.
The African Development Bank founded the Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund in 2017 to promote innovation and entrepreneurship as well as to create durable and sustainable jobs for youth on the continent. The trust fund provides grants to support the Bank’s Jobs for Youth in Africa Strategy (https://apo-opa.co/43RFw2b) programs and initiatives. The Jobs for Youth in Africa Strategy aims to create 25 million jobs and equip 50 million youth with employable and entrepreneurial skills by 2025.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Media contact:
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Communication and External Relations Department
Email: media@afdb.org
Technical Contact:
Salimata SOUMARE
Senior Natural Resources Governance Officer
African Natural Resources Management and Investment Centre
Email: s.soumare@afdb.org
ACCRA, Ghana, March 25, 2024/ — MEST Africa (www.Meltwater.org), a leading Pan-African tech entrepreneurship training program, seed fund, and incubator, proudly announces Koa Academy (www.KoaAcademy.com) as the grand prize winner of the 2023 MEST Africa Challenge (MAC), securing a $50,000 equity investment after a competitive pitch battle among Africa’s brightest tech innovators.
In a thrilling showcase of ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit, Koa Academy from South Africa stood out at the MEST Africa Challenge finale in Accra, Ghana, surpassing contenders from across the continent. This coveted startup competition, known for identifying and nurturing tech talent, saw Koa Academy clinch the top spot with its groundbreaking solution, poised to transform the Edtech industry.
The competition drew applications from hundreds of early-stage tech startups, rigorously assessed on criteria such as innovation, scalability, and team strength. Finalists from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa and Kenya competed in the grand finale, demonstrating their unique solutions and business models to a panel of esteemed judges, including investors and industry experts.
Koa Academy, Winner of the 2023 MEST Africa Challenge and a South African innovator in online education, offers dynamic and interactive courses for grades 4-12. With a focus on engagement and accessibility, it champions digital learning, making quality education available to anyone, anywhere, and transforming the educational landscape in South Africa.
The startup impressed the judges at the MAC Finale showcasing significant market potential, revenue growth, and social impact. “Winning the MEST Africa Challenge has been an amazing experience for the Koa Academy team. It highlights the hard work and dedication that everyone has put into growing Koa.
This recognition is not just an award; it’s a testament to the passion and perseverance that drives us every day. Amidst the challenges, this journey has brought us closer to others across the continent, forging relationships and connections that fuel our mission even further.
We are reminded that we’re not alone in this endeavor and are incredibly grateful for the support and learning opportunities this challenge has presented,” said Lauren Anderson, Co-founder and CEO, Koa Academy, expressing gratitude and optimism for the future of tech startups in Africa.
Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor at MEST Africa congratulated the winner and finalists for their exceptional achievements and resilience. The event also highlighted the support of Absa Bank Ghana for contributing to the challenge’s success.
The MEST Africa Challenge continues to be a pivotal platform for emerging tech startups in Africa, offering funding, visibility, and support to innovate and scale. Koa Academy’s victory underscores the vibrant potential within Africa’s tech ecosystem, promising a brighter future for the continent’s digital landscape.
The subsea cable landing service providers have remotely identified the approximate locations of the damage and have made preparations to dispatch repair vessels to the location for physical assessment and restoration.
Based on that, the subsea cable landing service providers have indicated an estimated time frame of a minimum of five (5) weeks for full service restoration from the time the vessels are dispatched to the various locations.
This was disclosed in a Press Release issued in Accra,Saturday,by the National Communications Authority(NCA) following the Authority’s meting with all four (4) subsea cable landing service providers (ACE, MainOne, SAT-3 and WACS); and the three (3) mobile network operators (AT, MTN and Telecel).
The meeting,the Release said, was attended by the top management of the said subsea cable landing service providers and the mobile network operators operators to receive updates and to discuss the way forward.
The Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and subsea cable landing service providers,the Release added,continue to work with their international partners in the sub-region to progressively add more capacity for data services as it becomes available.
“The NCA recognizes the impact the disruptions have had on economic, academic and social activities and assures the public of its commitment to continue collaborating with relevant stakeholders. We expect some improvement in data services in the coming days while the operators work around the clock to restore full connectivity.
The NCA the release said,”encourages MNOs, Internet Service Providers, and all other providers to actively participate in the operations of the Ghana Internet Exchange (GIX) in order to ensure an efficient local content delivery and a seamless Internet traffic exchange locally”,adding,”New developments will be communicated when available”.
Daniel Kontie, the General Manager, Sales and Marketing of Ghana’s Construction industry giant, the Adom Group, has resigned his position.
This was disclosed by Engr. Samuel Worwui, the CEO of GM Bamboo Eco-City Ltd in Accra, Saturday.
The resignation of Mr. Kontie who also doubles as the CEO/Chief Administrator of Africa’s biggest Construction Industry Professionals Network, the Africa Continental Engineering & Construction Network(ACECN), Egnr. Worwui said, is to, enable him dedicate more time to serve the wider construction industry in order to rapidly transition the Conventional Construction Industry into a Low-Carbon Pathways – Sustainable Built Environment Industry
Sir Daniel’s Vision was clearly captured in his address during last year’s maiden “African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit” (ACEACFMS 2023) hosted by ACECN in Partnership with the GM Bamboo Eco-City Ltd and numerous other public and private sectors partners and sponsors.
His Vision is to find Critical, Vital, Lasting and Innovative Solutions to the Chronic Problems/Challenges/Deficits in The Built Environment Industry.
This was the driving force behind his establishment of the Robust ACECEN WhatsApp group Platform including other Businesses, Partnerships and Collaborations for the transitioning of the conventional construction industry into the Sustainable Built Environment Industry.
The main agenda of the ACECN Platform is to transition the conventional built environment into a Low-Carbon pathway – net zero carbon – “Sustainable built Environment industry”.
Flashback
Sir Daniels never minced words during last year’s maiden “African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit” (ACEACFMS 2023) hosted by ACECN in collaboration with the GM Bamboo Eco-City Ltd and numerous other public and private sectors partners and sponsors.
Declaring the ACEACFMS 2023 as event to to be held annually as it came to a close, Sir Daniels had also earlier in his welcome address, underscored the important need for placing The African Built Environment in a position to transition from the current brown construction techniques to Green building technologies.
“Like it or not, the reality is that, new trends are transforming the way the industry operates, from the design phase to the actual construction process, particularly at this time that the whole planet faces eminent dangers of climate change by virtue of our old industrial actions and inactions that has brought us to this global climate emergency situation.
“Africans have always argued that Africa’s contribution to the current climate change catastrophe is insignificant compared to the West, that is true, however, what we fail to appreciate is that the problem was significantly created by the West but the solution lies in the hands of Africa and this is another 21st century industrial revolution for Africa to take advantage of” Sir Daniels had also intimated.
Real estate investment in Ghana has become an increasingly attractive option for investors looking to diversify their portfolios and tap into the country’s promising real estate industry, the country with a stable political environment, a young and rapidly urbanizing population, and rising incomes, Ghana’s real estate sector presents exciting opportunities in all categories of real estate, the residential, commercial, and industrial properties. This is a series brought to you by the Africa Continental Engineering & Construction Network Ltd (
