Amissah-Arthur’s wife's outburst: The inside story

The circumstances surrounding the alleged maltreatment of former Vice-President Paa Kwesi Bekoe Amissah-Arthur when he was in office are beginning to unravel.

The glaring hypocrisy, which was being displayed in the form of tributes, appeared to have irked Matilda, the wife of former Vice President, during his final funeral rites at the Accra International Conference Centre last Friday.

She clearly could not take it any longer when she decided to let everything off her chest by launching an unprecedented vitriolic attack on her husband’s ‘detractors,’ leaving Ghanaians to wonder what might have gone wrong.

“Over the last few weeks, I have been amazed at the number of people who have come to show us love and I asked myself is this Ghana? Are all these people in Ghana? Because the maligning, the lies, the treachery, the wickedness, the deliberately (sic) changing things so that they could look better than others, the mischievousness… I ask myself is this Ghana? I ask myself is this my own husband that people have come to pay tribute to?”

Intended Target

Mrs. Amissah-Arthur’s attack, according to insiders, was directed particularly at some elements in the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), who did everything to frustrate him when he served as vice-president.
It has emerged that a mere presidential staffer ordered the former Vice-President to return the presidential jet on which he had travelled for official assignment outside the country.

The said staffer, who was recently in the news for attacking a high-profile traditional leader, was said to have undermined Mr Amissah-Arthur while in office.

No courtesy

At certain points, Mr Amissah-Arthur, the head of the economic management team, would attend a programme, especially in financial sector, and in the course of the programme, he would be asked to leave the scene because President Mahama was also attending the same programme.

Also without any courtesies, he would be asked to attend a programme only when the sitting President’s handlers felt he should.

“They just tossed him about as if he was a nobody but he never uttered a word,” one of his aides told DAILY GUIDE.

Hijacked Itinerary

His itinerary as vice-president was hijacked by a very powerful presidential staffer who is noted for his gross disrespect not only to NDC’s political opponents but also top appointees who served under President Mahama.

Abuja Incident

Recently, when discussing the legacy of the former Vice- President, a journalist, who was attached to Mr. Amissah-Arthur’s office, remarked that “Amissah-Arthur was so humble that on one occasion when he used the presidential jet to fly to Abuja on official assignment, Stan had the audacity to call the Vice-President on phone and insultingly told him to return the Presidential Jet. Amissah-Arthur did not talk, he simple called us the press men and told us that we have to return to Accra.”


Amissah-Arthur Loyalists

Since his demise, Mr. Amissah-Arthur’s loyalists have been firing from all cylinders, trying to draw the public’s attention to the fact that their boss was maltreated whilst in office.

For instance, one of the ladies, who worked directly in his office, has been firing on social media platform, Facebook, describing some NDC elements as hypocrites who attended the funeral to shed crocodile tears.

Princess Law, believed to be one of Mr. Amissah-Arthur’s officers and called Lawrencia Wurah in several posts on Facebook, labeled her party’s leadership as hypocrites who only exhibited their ‘love and affection’ for Mr. Amissah-Arthur only after he had passed away.

“God is watching us all. Fear enemies within. Hypocrites!”she posted last Friday, and added “acting like they once cared. Hypocrites!”

She said: “When he was alive you never posted any of his activities. He is gone and you are posting his images on your walls. Enemies within. Hypocrites!”

“The enemies within are more dangerous than those outside your political party. Hypocrites!”

Baba Kamara

A former National Security Advisor under the previous Mahama-led NDC administration, Baba Kamara, who until Mr. Amissah-Arthur’s untimely demise was believed to be backing the ex-Vice-President to contest former John Mahama in order to lead the NDC as flag bearer in 2020, touted his leadership qualities.

“I will remember him for his personal decency and integrity, his deep commitment to public service, and his passionate belief in the vast potential and bright future of Ghanaians. He was a man who was several things to several people. He was incorruptible!”


JJ’s Observation

Even former President Jerry John Rawlings’ tribute pointed to the fact that Mr. Amissah-Arthur had a very difficult time during the tenure of former President Mahama.

“Despite the complex challenges he encountered as Vice- President, he nevertheless was a man whose demeanour won him deserving respect and admiration. Paa Kwesi may have been an unsung hero, but he paid his full dues to Ghana with love and commitment,” Rawlings said on Page 56 of the beautifully prepared 136-page brochure.
No Respect

In the run-up to the crucial 2016 general elections, which the NDC was defeated by then opposition NPP in an unprecedented fashion, there were campaign posters of President Mahama and his wife Lordina at the background scattered all over the country, especially in the Brong Ahafo Region.

Interestingly, it was Mr. Amissah-Arthur and not the former First Lady, who was partnering Mr. Mahama for the election on December 7, 2016, and the late Vice-President was relegated to the background in favour of the President’s wife, with no cash to support his campaign programmes.

The NDC’s disrespect for Mr. Amissah-Arthur was clear, as even on the day he was being buried, the leadership of the party okayed constituency elections to be held in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region, among others.

Supreme Court dismisses application to stop Akufo-Addo from appointing new EC boss

Newly appointed EC Chair Mrs. Jean Mensa

The Supreme Court has dismissed an interlocutory application that sought to stop the President from appointing a new Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC).

The applicant, Fafali Nyonator, filed the application after marching to the court with a case that the removal of former EC Chairperson, Mrs Charlotte Osei, was unlawful.

According to her, the Chief Justice committee that recommended the removal of Mrs Osei violated the 1992 Constitution.

She, therefore, wanted the court to halt the President from appointing a new EC Chair until the final determination of the substantive case.

The applicant particularly wanted the court to stop the President from going ahead with the process that would confirm the appointment of Mrs Jean Mensa as the new EC Chair.

But in a ruling today(Tuesday), a seven member panel of the Supreme Court unanimously dismissed the interlocutory application.

Let’s back Amidu against corruption - Rawlings

Jerry John Rawlings

Former President Jerry John Rawlings has reaffirmed his confidence in Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu to fight corruption in the country.

He said the Special Prosecutor’s unquestionable high level of integrity makes him the right choice to fight the canker, if not uproot it completely.

Rawlings, also referred to as Torgbui Nutifafa Fiaga, bemoaned high-level corruption in the previous administration and suggested that all and sundry must back Amidu to succeed in the campaign.

Speaking at the 60th Anniversary of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church Choir (Hadzihaga) of the Rev. Paul Wiegrabe Parish at Nima in Accra on Sunday, the statesman pointed out that his quest for a nationalistic and patriotic behaviour in Ghanaians remains unchanged.

According to him, that could be achieved when there is a concerted effort to fight the canker and make development of the people and the country a priority.

He said, “Amidu is a solid man of integrity. If we will all support him, he will succeed and make Ghana a better place for us all.”

The event also saw the presentation of a special photograph and citation to the former president by the church for his contributions to the development of Ghana.

He said, “I think they saw what I have done and decided to honour me; it’s a well deserved honour. I thank them for the recognition.”

The former president said some religious leaders (pastors) are doing well in the fight against corruption. He urged those sitting on the fence to join the crusade and drum home the message to the congregants.

JJ Message

When the NDC – the party he founded – was mulling over the appointment of Mr. Amidu in the initial stages, the former president congratulated President Akufo-Addo on rising above ‘partisanship’ to appoint ‘Citizen Vigilante’, who he described as ‘fearless’ and highly principled.”

In a statement during the appointment of Mr. Amidu as Special Prosecutor, Mr Rawlings expressed optimism that the anti-corruption crusader would deliver to expectation.

“Mr Amidu has proven to be a fearless anti-corruption crusader whose pursuit of truth and justice has won him national admiration,” adding “the president couldn’t have made a better choice.”

He asked for prayers and support from Ghanaians for Mr. Amidu, saying “I call on all Ghanaians to offer the appointee the required support and information in pursuit of what will undoubtedly be a challenging role.”

Freed pregnant prisoner gets furnished house, stocked shop, and more

A heavily pregnant, Ama Nima at the Kumasi Female Prison can now afford to smile after she was not only released from prison but has been given a means of living.

Her sad story has become a joyful one as the NGO which discovered her plight has bought for her, an apartment and a fully stocked provision shop.

According to Ibrahim Oppong Kwarteng who runs Crime Check TV and the NGO “She had been brought in a day earlier. When I asked her what had brought her there, she told me amid sobs that the judge who convicted her asked her to pay a fine of GHC 1200 or in default serve five years in prison for biting the hand of a family member in a fight. As someone who earns GHC 120 a month for working on a refuse dump site, she couldn’t raise the money, so had to go to prison in her state, leaving her two kids at home. But the question is – Did she deliberately bite the hand of her accuser? Ama says she was rather pushed down by her accuser and her children, and mercilessly beaten for daring to ask her why she had beaten her little son."

In the process, she bit her hand to free herself from the pain she was going through. Sadly the judge who sentenced her did not allow her to narrate her side of the story. At times I wonder whether some of our judges have the milk of human kindness in them. You jail a poor innocent girl without asking for her side of the story and expect her to deliver the unborn baby in prison? Sad!!!!! We at Crime Check Foundation will do all we can to have Ama Nima released from Prison”

Later he posted another development saying, “After we shared the story of Ama Nima from Kumasi Central Prison three weeks ago, many were those who expressed disgust. The thought of being sentenced to five years in prison because she couldn’t pay a court fine, after being beaten by other family members was difficult to grasp. But God works in mysterious ways! After her release from prison, I asked Ama what she wanted to do for a living. She said with 500 cedis, she could do a lot. Little did she know we at Crime Check Foundation had other plans for her."

He revealed that, "Through the donations we received from some good Samaritans, we rented a flat in Accra for Ama and her two children and moved them in. She was so surprised she wept all day. A dustbin attendant now moves into a plush accommodation paid in advance of four years. But the biggest surprise was on its way! This afternoon we showed Ama her big provisions shop and gave her a sum of seven thousand Ghana cedis. Your guess is as good as mine! It was tears and tears and tears of Joy! To all those who helped change the circumstances of poor Ama Anima, may the Almighty God richly bless you. Watch the full video next week Sunday with full acknowledgement of all those who helped. From our Crime Check Team, we thank you all!!!”

Newspaper Headlines: July 31st, 2018. Tuesday

Daily Graphic:

* Working but starving - Informal jobs pay GH¢150 monthly

* 2 Varsity students sentenced to death by hanging

* @MTNGhana Share Offer closes today

* SIC wins overall insurance award

Chronicle:

* MP, MCE at each other's throats

* Bongo Chief fumes over limit to childbirth

* Nkoranza South MCE denies assaulting NPP constituency secretary

* Put National Security in check - Traders petition

Disregard the propaganda - Bagbin

Mr Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, Second Deputy of Speaker has called on the public to disregard a story suggesting that he has managed to woo Mr Julius Debrah, a former Chief of staff under former President John Dramani Mahama to his side.

“On Thursday, July 26, 2018, Mr Bagbin led a campaign team for 2020 to visit and commiserate with the family of his good brother and friend Mr Julius Debrah (former Chief of Staff), over the demise of Mr Debrah’s mother.”

A News release from his campaign secretariat and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra on Monday said those flying stories were not the true reflection of what transpired when he met Mr Debrah.

He said during the visit, healthy pleasantries were shared between him and Mr Julius Debrah, but nowhere was it mentioned nor indicated in any form that Mr Julius Debrah was joining the A.S.K. Bagbin 2020 team.

“As such, A.S.K. Bagbin for 2020 is by this release communicating to the general public that all publications or communications purporting that Mr Debrah has dumped Mahama for Bagbin should be disregarded since such a thing never happened at the Thursday meeting.”

The statement said Mr Bagbin cherished and highly respected the relationship that existed between him and Mr Debrah and hoped the other publications would not affect their relationship.

Man, 25, caught having sex with a cow; Cow owner demands GHC3,500 as compensation

A 25-year-old man, Kofi Sarpong, has been caught sleeping with a cow at Sefwi in the Western region. The owner of the cow is demanding for GHC1,500 in return of his animal and also a compensation of GHC2,000 making a total of GHc3, 500.

According to the owner, he cannot take back the cow after Kofi Sarpong sexually abused it.

Rainbow Radio’s Sir Joe reported on Nyankonton Mu Nsem that, the 25-year-old man was caught in the act having sex with the cow on his father’s cocoa farm.

Sir Joe indicated that after the suspect was caught, he took to his heels leaving behind his trousers and shirt.

To serve as an evidence, the owner of cow took them to the chief’s palace where the case is currently being trialled.

SOURCE
GHANAWEB

Osu chiefs name outgone U.S. Ambassador 'Nii Nortey Jackson’

The Osu Traditional Council, led by Paramount Chief of Osu, Nii Okwei Kinka Dowuona VI, on Wednesday, 25 July 2018, conferred the name ‘Nii Nortey Jackson’ on the outgone U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Robert P. Jackson.

The chiefs visited the American diplomat at the U.S. embassy in Accra to bid him farewell.

Mr Jackson thanked them for their support throughout his time in Ghana and for their effort in bringing development to their people.

On Friday, 27 July, his last day as Ambassador, Mr Jackson was presented with a Distinguished Honour Award by the U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, “for his sustained distinguished honour service and leadership in mentoring a new generation of foreign service leaders and successfully advancing U.S. interests around the world with excellence and diplomatic acumen.”

The award was presented to him by USAID-Ghana Mission Director, Sharon Cromer. He was also presented with a flag of the United States by the Marine Corps.

Mr Jackson retired from active service at the end of last week after a three-year duty tour of Ghana and 37 years of service to the United States.

SOURCE: GHANAWEB

Double track system confusing to stakeholders – Minority MP

The ranking member on the Education Committee of Parliament, Peter Notsu Kotoe has advised government, particularly the education ministry to consider a broader stakeholder consultation before it goes ahead with the implementation of the double track system.

“If you want to introduce something, you must engage stakeholders, so they can understand it very well, and make a useful contribution so that in the end you are involving them in the evolution of the system and they will be able to know,” he said.

He told host of Anopa Kasapa, Kwaku Owusu Adjei on Kasapa FM, that although the policy might be the best solution to absorb the overwhelming numbers into the various public senior high schools, the policy could hit a snag if proper consultation is not done.

“This thing needs a careful study and analysis, we must engage the stakeholders, especially those who are going to implement the policy, so that they understand it very well, and make a useful contribution,” he said.

He, however, revealed that the Education Committee of Parliament was not consulted on the double track system.

“The committee was not consulted, until Monday when we requested to have the minister in a meeting, where we asked him to come and brief the committee, on the working of the double track system”, he added.

Government has announced that it is set to roll out a double Tracking System which will be similar to the semester mode of learning applicable in the universities at the SHS level.

The objectives of the Double-track School Calendar are to create room to accommodate increase in enrolment, reduce class sizes, increase contact hours and to increase the number of holidays.

Parliament ‘frees’ Kennedy Agyapong

Parliament could not take a decision on the fate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who had been cited in an alleged contemptuous statement against the House.

Mr. Kennedy Agyapong was said to have described Parliament as a ‘cheap’ and ‘useless’ Institution.

Appearing before the committee on July 23, the Assin Central MP completely denied that he used ‘useless’ to describe Parliament but admitted that he used the word ‘cheap’ to describe the Institution.

The Assin Central MP unreservedly apologised to MPs and the Institution when he appeared before the committee for using the word ‘cheap’ to describe the Parliament of Ghana.

He said he used the word because he was highly provoked by one Kwabena Nsenkyire, the First Ashanti Regional Vice Chairman of the NPP who had earlier denigrated him (Ken Agyapong) by telling him that he (Agyapong) does not deserve to be called an honourable Member of Parliament and continued to rain other invective on him after he had vowed to expose investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

He said he was expecting Parliament to ‘punish’ Kwabena Nsenkyire for denigrating him.

The Privileges Committee of Parliament was split in its recommendations to either suspend or reprimand the Assin Central MP after hearing the alleged contemptuous case against him.

The committee’s report was advertised on the Order Paper on Friday, July 27, and Saturday, July 28, for the plenary to debate and take a final decision on the matter but on both occasions the report was not discussed, let alone a final decision taken on it.

On Saturday, the final day of the second meeting when Parliament rose for recess, there was no sign that the report would be adopted and a final decision taken; hence Parliament rose without any final decision taken on Ken Agyapong’s case.

It is not clear whether the matter has been deferred to the next meeting or not but when Parliament eventually rose without the matter being discussed some MPs were seen shaking hands and sharing jokes with the Assin Central MP.

The Privileges Committee had recommended for the suspension or reprimand of the Assin Central MP even though he had apologised to the MPs.

“The committee noted the apology rendered by the MP and therefore did not consider expulsion as a sanction to be imposed. The committee was however in favour of either a reprimand or a suspension,” the Privileges Committee chaired by the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei-Owusu, had recommended to the plenary but a final decision could not be taken by the plenary before Parliament rose on Saturday.

I've not dumped Mahama - Julius Debrah denies endorsing Bagbin

Mr Julius Debrah

Former Chief of Staff Mr Julius Debrah has denied endorsing Mr Alban Bagbin’s candidature for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearership race.

Reports over the weekend suggested that Mr Debrah, who was appointed by former president John Dramani Mahama as his Chief of Staff had switched camp to support the Nadowli-Kaleo lawmaker against his former boss.

But in a rejoinder, Mr Debrah asked members of the NDC to ignore such reports describing it as “false”.

He said: “My attention has been drawn to news reports of my supposed endorsement of Mr Alban Bagbin to lead our great party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“Let me state emphatically that, I, Julius Debrah, have at no time, either privately or publicly made any statements to suggest my support or endorsement of Mr Bagbin.

“It is unfortunate that a last-minute request by Mr Bagbin after the one-week commemoration of my late mother to visit will be deliberately twisted for seeming political gain. He was warmly received just like all other dignitaries who came to mourn with my family.

“The news reports are false, and I wish to humbly urge all members and well-wishers of the NDC who have called expressing concern and surprise to kindly ignore the said reports.”
SOURCE
GHANAWEB

Bagbin Is a great leader- Julius Debrah

Mr Julius Debrah, former Chief of Staff under former President Mahama has described Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, as a man of exceptional leadership qualities.

“Mr Alban Bagbin is a great leader; he is a man who seldom talks, but when he does, he speaks the unpalatable truth,” the former Chief of Staff said when Mr Bagbin visited him on Thursday to commiserate with him on the death of his mother few weeks ago.

The former Chief of Staff praised Mr Bagbin, who is a leading flagbearer hopeful of the NDC, as a man who belongs among the greats.

Madam Kate Pokua passed on the 15th of July at the age of 73 after battling a short illness and her passing has since invoked an outpouring of condolences to the former Chief of Staff.

Mr Bagbin, who went there to mourn with him as tradition demands, was warmly received together with an entourage that included; Mr Joseph Naabu Bipoba, the MP for Yunyoo, and Mr Raymond Kuudaah, General Manager of Mr Bagbin’s Flagbearership campaign Secretariat.

Other notables were; Mr Emmanuel Wilson, Communication Director for Bagbin’s Campaign team and Mr Stephen Ashitey Adjei, alias Moshake, a delegate and executive member of the Tema East branch of the NDC.

Mr Julius Debrah, who led his family to receive Mr Bagbin and his team said he regarded the respected MP for Nadowli-Kaleo as an elder brother and a long time source of inspiration.

“I consulted him a lot when I was Chief of Staff, because he is like an elder brother to me. This is the man who encouraged me a lot when I was in the Eastern region, rallied a lot of support for me and pushed for my elevation within the party,” Mr. Debrah said.

Easteren regional police command arrest two suspected armed robbers

The Eastern regional Police Command have arrested two armed robbers who blocked a section of the road at Kwahu-Tafo to rob residents plying that stretch. Confirming the arrest of the suspects, the Eastern regional Police PRO, DSP Ebenezer Tetteh said the two suspects, Ibrahim Sambo, aged 31, and Sulleyman Sambo, aged 21, were all armed with single-barrel guns. He said: “On July 28th at about 10.30 am, the Kwahu Mpraeso Police patrol team had information that armed robbers had blocked a section of the Kwahu Tafo -Kwahu Pitiku motor road and were robbing drivers and passengers commuting that section of the road. Police quickly responded and met three Fulani men armed with single barrel shotguns.” “Upon seeing the police they took to their heels into the bush, the police patrol team pursued them and arrested suspect Ibrahim Sambo aged 31 and also retrieved one single barrel shotgun from him.” “Again at about 10:55 pm, suspect Sullemana Sambo aged 21, one of the two robbery suspects who escaped through the bush, was arrested with the help of the townfolks of Kwahu -Pitiku. Suspects have been detained and the exhibit retained. Efforts are being made to apprehend the third suspect who is on the run.”

SOURCE: Written by  Rashid Obodai Provencal@rainbowradioonline.com

9 health benefits of eating watermelon.

Top 9 Health Benefits of Eating Watermelon

Watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit that's also good for you. It contains only 46 calories per cup, but is high in vitamin C, vitamin A and many healthy plant compounds.
Here are the top 9 health benefits of eating watermelon.

1. Helps You Hydrate

Drinking water is an important way to keep your body hydrated.
However, eating foods that have a high water content can also help.
Interestingly, watermelon is 92% water (1).
A high water content is one of the reasons that fruits and vegetables help you feel full. The combination of water and fiber means you're eating a good volume of food without a lot of calories.

2. Contains Nutrients and Beneficial Plant Compounds

As far as fruits go, watermelon is one of the lowest in calories — only 46 calories per cup. That's lower than even "low-sugar" fruits such as berries (2).
A cup (154 grams) of watermelon has many other nutrients as well, including these vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin C: 21% of the RDI
• Vitamin A: 18% of the RDI
• Potassium: 5% of the RDI
• Magnesium: 4% of the RDI
• Vitamins B1, B5 and B6: 3% of the RDI

Watermelon is also high in carotenoids, including beta-carotene and lycopene. Plus, it has citrulline, an important amino acid.
Here's an overview of watermelon's most important antioxidants:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage from free radicals.

Carotenoids

Carotenoids are a class of plant compounds that includes alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A.

Lycopene

Lycopene is a type of carotenoid that doesn't change into vitamin A. This potent antioxidant gives a red color to plant foods such as tomatoes and watermelon, and is linked to many health benefits.

Cucurbitacin E

Cucurbitacin E is a plant compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Bitter melon, a relative of watermelon, contains even more cucurbitacin E.

3. Contains Compounds That May Help Prevent Cancer

Researchers have studied lycopene and other individual plant compounds in watermelon for their anti-cancer effects.
Although lycopene intake is linked to a lower risk of some types of cancer, the results are mixed. The strongest link so far seems to be between lycopene and cancers of the digestive system (1).
Lycopene appears to reduce cancer risk by lowering insulin-like growth factor (IGF), a protein involved in cell division. High IGF levels are linked to cancer (3).
In addition, cucurbitacin E has been investigated for its ability to inhibit tumor growth (4, 5).

4. May Improve Heart Health

Heart disease is the number one cause of death worldwide (6).
Lifestyle factors, including diet, may lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Several nutrients in watermelon have specific benefits for heart health.
Studies suggest that lycopene may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It can also help prevent oxidative damage to cholesterol (1).
According to studies in obese postmenopausal women and Finnish men, lycopene may also help reduce the stiffness and thickness of artery walls (7, 8).
Watermelon also contains citrulline, an amino acid that may increase nitric oxide levels in the body. Nitric oxide helps your blood vessels expand, which lowers blood pressure (9).
Other vitamins and minerals in watermelon are also good for your heart. These include vitamins A, B6, C, magnesium and potassium (1).

5. May Lower Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Inflammation is a key driver of many chronic diseases.
Watermelon may help lower inflammation and oxidative damage, since it's rich in the anti-inflammatory antioxidants lycopene and vitamin C (1).
In a 2015 study, lab rats were fed watermelon powder to supplement an unhealthy diet. Compared with the control group, they developed lower levels of C-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation) and less oxidative stress (10).
In an earlier study, humans were given lycopene-rich tomato juice with added vitamin C. Overall, their markers of inflammation went down and antioxidants went up. Watermelon has both lycopene and vitamin C (11).
As an antioxidant, lycopene may also benefit brain health. For example, it may help delay the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease (12).

6. May Help Prevent Macular Degeneration

Found in several parts of the eye, lycopene helps protect against oxidative damage and inflammation.
It may also help prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This is a common eye problem that can cause blindness in older adults (1).
Lycopene's role as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound may help prevent AMD from developing and getting worse.

7. May Help Relieve Muscle Soreness

Citrulline, an amino acid in watermelon, may reduce muscle soreness.
Interestingly, watermelon juice appears to enhance the bio-availability of citrulline.
One small study gave athletes plain watermelon juice, watermelon juice mixed with citrulline or a citrulline drink. Both watermelon drinks led to less muscle soreness and quicker heart rate recovery, compared to citrulline on its own (13).
The researchers also conducted a test-tube experiment, investigating the absorption of citrulline. Their findings suggest that citrulline absorption is most effective when it's consumed as a component of watermelon juice.
Other research has also looked at citrulline's potential to improve exercise endurance and performance. So far, citrulline doesn't seem to improve exercise performance in the amounts studied, but it's still an area of research interest (14).

8. Is Good for Skin and Hair

Two vitamins in watermelon — A and C — are important for skin and hair health.
Vitamin C helps your body make collagen, a protein that keeps your skin supple and your hair strong.
Vitamin A is also important for healthy skin since it helps create and repair skin cells. Without enough vitamin A, your skin can look dry and flaky.
Both lycopene and beta-carotene may also help protect your skin from sunburn (15).

9. Can Help Improve Digestion

Watermelon contains lots of water and a small amount of fiber — both of which are important for healthy digestion.
Fiber can provide bulk for your stool, while water helps keep your digestive tract moving efficiently.
Eating water-rich and fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, including watermelon, can be very helpful for promoting normal bowel movements.

SOURCE www.healthline.com

Watermelon: Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Despite popular belief that watermelon is made up of only water and sugar, watermelon is actually considered a nutrient dense food, a food that provides a high amount of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for a low amount of calories.   Watermelons have become synonymous with summer and picnics, and for good reason. Their refreshing quality and sweet taste help to combat the heat and also provide a guilt-free, low maintenance dessert for kids and adults alike to enjoy.   Along with cantaloupe and honeydew, watermelons are a member of the botanical family Cucurbitaceae. There are five common types of watermelon: seeded, seedless, mini (also known as personal), yellow and orange.   Possible health benefits of watermelon Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like watermelon decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality, diabetes, heart disease and promotes a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, overall lower weight.   Watermelon Along with cantaloupe and honeydew, watermelons are a member of the botanical family Cucurbitaceae. Asthma prevention: The risks for developing asthma are lower in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is vitamin C, found in many fruits and vegetables including watermelon.   Blood pressure: A study published by the American Journal of Hypertension found that watermelon extract supplementation reduced ankle blood pressure, brachial blood pressure and carotid wave reflection in obese middle-aged adults with prehypertension or stage 1 hypertension and that watermelon extract improved arterial function.   Diets rich in lycopene may help protect against heart disease.   Cancer: As an excellent source of the strong antioxidant vitamin C as well as other antioxidants, watermelon can help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer. Lycopene intake has been linked with a decreased risk of prostate cancer prevention in several studies.   Digestion and regularity: Watermelon, because of its water and fiber content, helps to prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract.   Hydration: Made up of 92% water and full of important electrolytes, watermelon is a great snack to have on hand during the hot summer months to prevent dehydration.   Inflammation: Choline is a very important and versatile nutrient in watermelon that aids our bodies in sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, assists in the absorption of fat and reduces chronic inflammation.   Muscle soreness: Watermelon and watermelon juice have been shown to reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery time following exercise in athletes. Researchers believe this is likely do to the amino acid L-citrulline contained in watermelon.   Skin: Watermelon is also great for your skin because it contains vitamin A, a nutrient required for sebum production that keeps hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair.   Adequate intake of vitamin C (one cup of watermelon provides 21% of daily needs) is also needed for the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin and hair. Watermelon also contributes to overall hydration, which is vital for having healthy looking skin and hair.   On the next page we look at the nutritional breakdown of watermelon, how to incorporate more watermelon into your diet and any possible health risks of consuming watermelon.   Nutritional breakdown of watermelon One cup of diced watermelon (152 grams) contains 43 calories, 0 grams of fat, 2 milligrams of sodium, 11 grams of carbohydrate (including 9 grams of sugar) and 1 gram of fiber. One cup of watermelon will provide 17% of vitamin A, 21% of vitamin C, 2% of iron and 1% of calcium needs for the day. Watermelon also contains thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, choline, lycopene and betaine. According to the National Watermelon Promotion Board, watermelon contains more lycopene than any other fruit or vegetable.   Despite being a great source of the above nutrients, watermelon is made up of 92% water. How to incorporate more watermelon into your dietWatermelon and feta salad Jazz up a boring salad by adding watermelon or add to a few ice cubes in a blender for a cold refreshing treat! Look for a watermelon that is firm, heavy and symmetrical without soft spots or bruising.   Place diced watermelon and a few ice cubes in a blender for a cold refreshing treat that's perfect for rehydrating after exercise or a day in the sun. Visit the National Watermelon Board's recipe site for even more fun, inventive ideas on how to incorporate more watermelon into your diet. Potential health risks of consuming watermelon It is the total diet or overall eating pattern that is most important in disease prevention and achieving good health. It is better to eat a diet with variety than to concentrate on individual foods as the key to good health.    

River volta: Five children drown in boat accident

Five children have lost their lives after a boat accident on the Volta River, Sunday.   The Ghana Navy is at the scene coordinating rescue efforts.   The boat was  carrying passengers from Nantwekope to Yeji hit a tree stump in the middle of the journey and capsized. There were about 60 passengers on board during the tragedy, according to rescuers. The passengers were travelling to Yeji with their foodstuff to trade between Sunday and Tuesday.   The body of the deceased have been deposited at the morgue.  

SOURCE: rainbowradioonline.com

Lack of sanctions increasing corruption in public sector

Chairman for the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Hon. Kweku Agyemang Manu says the lack of sanctions against public sector workers cited for various financial crimes has worsened the situation. The Member of Parliament (MP) for Dormaa Central, said embezzlement at the various public sectors in the country is reoccurring because persons cited for these crimes are not prosecuted and until government shows the political will, the situation will still persist. The legislator in an interview with Kwame Tutu said, the problem the country faces today is not because we do not have laws to deal with persons cited for the offences but lack of political will of government in power to crack the whip. Hon. Kweku Agyemang Manu posited that, government has failed in retrieving monies from some persons cited for various financial crimes which affirms its unwillingness to prove to Ghanaians that, it abhors corruption. According to him, President Mahama's commitment towards the fight against corruption is nothing to write home about and has deepened our woes. He noted, Ghana needs a leader with the commitment of sanctioning or prosecuting people cited for corruption. ''Our laws are working but we need an extra ordinary leader with the commitment of fighting corruption head on. We have politicians but it is not every politician or leader who fight corruption and until we get a firm leader, we will still encounter financial crimes in public sector,'' Hon. Agyemang Manu told Kwame Tutu on Rainbow Radio. His comments follows some revelations in the Auditors General's report for the 2011, 2012 and 2013 financial year at the various public sectors. PAC has ordered one MB Alhassan, a civil servant to return a 4X4 Nissan Patrol vehicle belonging to the Local Government Service Secretariat which is still in his possession after his service. Mr. Alhassan was assigned the vehicle for official use when he was transferred to the Secretariat four years ago but took it away for his personal use after leaving office. According to Mr. Alhassan the vehicle is grounded at a fitting shop in Tamale but he's being ordered to repair and return the vehicle with immediate effect. PAC has ordered him to pay the Secretariat for denying them the use of the vehicle over the past four years. The committee also ordered the arrest of one Mr. Sarfo a former regional accountant the Central Regional Birth and Death Registry to account for an amount of GHC 54, 44-being revenue collected on behalf of the registry in 2013. The Public Works Department of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly failed to provide receipts covering an amount of GHC 1,059,659 in respect of building permits and penalties. Officials are to appear before the committee on Monday to prove that the receipts are available or be ordered to refund the money to the state.      

SOURCE http: rainbowradioonline.com

Government to meet Ghana Medical Association over strike

The Ministry of Health is expected to meet the leadership of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) over a planned strike.

Public Relations Officer of the ministry, Robert Cudjoe, said on Monday, 30 July that an emergency meeting has been scheduled for either the same day or Tuesday, to deal with the doctors’ issues.

The doctors threatened an indefinite strike, effective Monday, 6 August 2018, until a list of their demands are met by government.

All doctors in the public sector will withdraw their outpatient services until August 19 and heighten the industrial action by withdrawing emergency services from 20 August until 27 August when they declare a full-blown strike if their demands are still not met.

The GMA arrived at this decision at their 4th National Executive Council meeting held at Jirapa in the Upper West Region from 27 – 28 July 2018.

According to the GMA, the issue of doctors having suffered reduced pensions following their migration onto the single spine pay policy; and non-payment of conversion differences, is still outstanding since December 2011, in spite of the NLC’s compulsory arbitration award which binds both parties and subsequent directive from the NLC to government to correct same.

The GMA also accused government of not fully implementing their condition of service document signed in October 2015.

The Association also bemoaned the “inequitable distribution of critical healthcare staff which has resulted in most deprived communities not receiving the desired standard of care.”

They are calling on government to consider the incentive packages recommended by the GMA at its Annual General Conference held in Tamale in November 2010.

Mr Cudjoe told Chief Jerry Forson on Ghana Yensom that the government has received the concerns of the doctors, adding that: “Government won’t sit down unconcerned for the strike to start, and, so, today or tomorrow we are going to hold a crunch meeting with the leadership of the GMA to discuss the issues with them.

“Already, the Minister of Health has assured that the cost of the post-graduate training for doctors will be borne by the government, and, so, some actions are being taken on their demands.”

4 robbery suspects arrested in Dome

Two suspected armed robbers and two others suspected to be their accomplices have been arrested by personnel of the Madina Divisional Police Command.

Suspects Frederick Brown and Issah Dramani are in police custody assisting in the investigation while suspect Awudu and another ex-convict, whose name is yet to be established, are on the run.

Richard Otuah and Baah Stephen, who have been accused by one of the victims as accomplices, have also been detained by the police for questioning.

At about 2 am yesterday, Jerry Apea of Dome Pillar Two arrived home in the company of Abigail Antwi in a Navara pick-up truck, and while alighting from the vehicle, three young men armed with pistols attacked them.

The armed young men took GH?12,000 from Jerry Apea, his Nokia 6 phone and the car key, and also collected two phones from Abigail Antwi.

The robbers then escorted the victims to their room and further took a laptop, five wrist watches and GH?3,000.

The robbers attempted driving away the Navara pick-up truck but ran into a taxi which had just arrived with Elizabeth Tsedu and Mary Tsedu on board.

The robbers, therefore, turned on the occupants of the taxi. They robbed the two ladies of their two phones each and handbags.

They also seized the taxi from the driver, Kwasi Anane, and attempted to drive away the car, but abandoned the plan and went away with the key.

The victims reported the incident to the police.

Jerry Apea, one of the victims, accused his co-tenants – Richard Otuah and Baah Stephen – as accomplices because, he claimed, the two gentlemen were in their room at the time of the time robbery but rather pulled down their curtains when the robbery was in progress.

Later, with the assistance of a tracking device on the iPhone of Elizabeth Tsedu, one of the victims, police traced the stolen items to Dome, near the public toilet.

Suspects Frederick Brown and Issah Dramani were arrested in a wooden structure.

Two iPhones belonging to victims Elizabeth and Mary Tsedu were retrieved.

Also found were the laptop and two wrist watches of victim Jerry Apea.

One of the suspects, who was later identified as Awudu, was seen moving away on a motorbike upon sighting the police.

Another suspect, believed to be an ex-convict, whose name the police are yet to establish, is also on the run.
 COPIED FROM www.ghanaweb.com

Citi FM, OccupyGhana petition Nana Addo over ‘health crisis’

Citi FM and OccupyGhana have petitioned President Nana Akufo-Addo to demand the operationalization of all newly built but abandoned healthcare facilities.

The petitioners are also pushing for a comprehensive Emergency Response System (ERS) in Ghana.

The two petitioners contend that the matters at hand have “reached a crisis point.” “The matters now require drastic measures, one of which is our request herein that the President takes urgent steps to operationalise the facilities and institute the ERS throughout Ghana.”

They urged the president to “put in place and publish a clear roadmap with timelines for addressing the matters.”

The work of the Citi Breakfast Show is highlighted for its advocacy and tracking of abandoned healthcare facilities.

This has revealed that “although an amount of $1 billion has been committed to various facilities, some that are completed are not in use while others have either been abandoned or fallen behind the scheduled date of completion with no remedial actions being taken.”

It is the conviction of the petitioners that the facilities, when operationalised, will “reduce pressure on the existing tertiary and regional referral facilities and add about a 4000-bed capacity to the existing nationwide figure of about 20,000 beds.”

The University of Ghana Medical Centre, the first phase of which was recently opened, was among newly built healthcare facilities that was sitting idle over 18 months after it was commisioned, because of a spat between the government and the University of Ghana over who should manage the facility.

The 1,000-bed maternity & paediatric block at KATH that has been abandoned for over four decades, the Police Hospital in Accra and the KNUST Teaching Hospital are some of the projects noted in the petition, that have been abandoned.

The no-beds syndrome has left healthcare providers with no option but to treat emergency cases on the floor or chairs in some cases.

This is after the death of 70-year-old man who was turned away by seven hospitals over a lack of beds prompted the Ghana Health Service to direct that emergency cases be treated regardless of the medical logistics.

The petition also includes an 11 point plan for a comprehensive emergency service system that includes the provision of an adequate number of ambulances for the population, improved support to the National Health Insurance Scheme, the establishment of an ERS Command Centre and the provision of more community hospitals.

The petitioners maintain that “poor health care is a gross violation of the inherent right of the people to good healthcare.”

“We believe that the President has a sacred duty to ensure that the right thing is done. That is why we are calling for a direct action by the President to ensure that these matters are addressed by, first, ensuring that all identified facilities are operationalised forthwith, and second, instituting a workable plan for emergency healthcare in Ghana.”

Give us evidence to probe exam leakage – Parliament to Law students

The Chairman of the Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee of Parliament Ben Abdallah has urged angry law students to provide evidence of the alleged exam leakage to his committee in order for them to probe their claims.

Some students of the Ghana School of Law are upset over an alleged leakage of their exams after the supposed questions together with answers and marking scheme were seen on social media hours before the exams. The students say the development suggests that some of their colleagues had access to the exams papers before they started writing the paper.

Spokesperson for the irate law students Yaa Opoku told Francis Abban on the Morning Starr Monday that the Independent Examination Body (IEB) of the General Legal Council must be dissolved over the issue.

“We are very angry, extremely angry. As students, we are on various platforms and questions kept flying onto the platforms. We got to the exam hall and the questions dropped just as was shown to us. It was shocking. The questions just didn’t drop, they dropped with answers and marking schemes. Our major concern is with the IEB. Over the years, they have proven to be incompetent and for that matter, the Board should be dissolved,” she lamented.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Abdallah said his colleagues were equally concerned when issue came to their attention.

“The issue of the leakage came to our attention after the students wrote the exams. We all passed comments on this because exams are to be fair. We will need evidence to pursue this case. Listening to Yaa Opoku the students had access to the questions, answers and marking schemes. As far as I am concerned, this issue remains an allegation until proven otherwise”.

We don’t take delight in strikes – Ghana Medical Association

Dr Frank Serebour, Vice-President of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), has said doctors do not take pleasure in using strikes as a bargaining tool.

According to him, although they are aware of the adverse effects of their industrial action, they have no option than to resort to same since government has failed to listen to their concerns.

Doctors in the country have threatened an indefinite strike, effective Monday, 6 August 2018, until a list of their demands are met by government.

All doctors in the public sector will withdraw their outpatient services until August 19 and heighten the industrial action by withdrawing emergency services from 20 August until 27 August when they declare a full-blown strike if their demands are still not met.

The GMA arrived at this decision at their 4th National Executive Council meeting held at Jirapa in the Upper West Region from 27 – 28 July 2018.

According to the GMA, the issue of doctors having suffered reduced pensions following their migration onto the single spine pay policy; and non-payment of conversion differences, is still outstanding since December 2011, in spite of the NLC’s compulsory arbitration award which binds both parties and subsequent directive from the NLC to government to correct same.

The GMA also accused government of not fully implementing their condition of service document signed in October 2015.

The Association also bemoaned the “inequitable distribution of critical healthcare staff which has resulted in most deprived communities not receiving the desired standard of care.”

They are calling on government to consider the incentive packages recommended by the GMA at its Annual General Conference held in Tamale in November 2010.

Speaking on Ghana Yensom hosted by Chief Jerry Forson on Accra 100.5FM on Monday, 30 July, Dr Serebuor said: “It is not as if we take delight in fighting for a better condition of service, we don’t take delight in strike at all but the situation demands that we do this to achieve our purpose.”

He added: “We don’t sit and say we are just thinking about ourselves, we think of Ghanaians and at the same time we also think about ourselves, we are also workers who are entitled to certain benefits.”

COPIED FROM 
www.ghanaweb.com 

News making the headlines in the newsapapers, July 30th, 2018

 Daily Graphic

• Catholic Bishops fight corruption

• Victims of human trafficking get state shelter

• Prez allays fears about double intake

• 16-page Greater Works supplement inside

• UMB averts cyber attack

• Parliament approves $2bn barter deal with China

Daily Guide

• Bettty defends Woyome GHC51m fraud

• MPs approve $2bn Chinese deal for roads, railways

• Law school exams leaked

• UMB cyber attack

Samira Bawumia lands new ambassadorial role

The Second Lady of Ghana has been handed an ambassadorial position by the World Habitat Ambassadors Foundation (WHAF) and she dazzled in a very beautiful dress as the honor was conferred on her to mark the occasion.

In a post on Instagram to announce the honor, the Second Lady posted pictures of herself and captioned them, “I am honored to be named the World Habitat Humanitarian Ambassador and to be awarded for Global Excellence in Leadership, Humanitarian and Philanthropic activities in Africa and Investiture by World Habitat Ambassadors Foundation (WHAF)”, she revealed.

“The World Habitat Ambassadors Foundation (WHAF) is an NGO committed to working towards sustainable development goals and core values in dedication to achieving urban development.

Thank you to the WHAF for the award and the Ghana High Commission in Abuja for hosting the presentation of the award”, she continued.

Samira Bawumia who has been admired for her way of dressing once again did not disappoint when she had to be conferred with her new ambassadorial role.

Samira Bawumia has over the period showed her high fashion sense and has ‘slayed’ in her outfit any time she had to make a public appearance.

Speaking in an interview on Accra-based Starr FM to commemorate the According to the Second Lady, the businesses of her dressmakers had seen a remarkable boom and invariably, it has made their lives comfortable by creating more jobs for them.

She said the dressmaking industry was booming because of the many talents who made dresses for her that got others talking whenever she stepped out.




I am honoured to be named the World Habitat Humanitarian Ambassador and to be awarded for Global Excellence in Leadership, Humanitarian and Philanthropic activities in Africa and Investiture by World Habitat Ambassadors Foundation (WHAF). The World Habitat Ambassadors Foundation (WHAF) is an NGO committed to working towards sustainable development goals and core values in dedication to achieving urban development. Thank you to the WHAF for the award and the Ghana High Commission in Abuja for hosting the presentation of the award.

NEWS MAKING HEADLINES IN THE NEWSPAPERS

Stories making headlines on the front pages in the major newspapers include:

Daily Graphic:

- Truck runs into traders* 1 killed, 6 injured

- Ghanaians mourn Former Vice-President

Publisher:

- As Amissah-Arthur goes home..Asiedu Nketia weeps

- Truck runs over traders at Ashaiman

Weekend Today:

- Actress Zynell Zuh stuns in new birthday photos

- Taipei and Accra to host WTCA confabs

Chronicle:

- Palm wine you drink could be dangerous!

- Ghana mourns Amissah-Arthur

- Funny names of villages excite MPs

Daily Guide:

- ‘Wicked’ cop caged for assaulting a woman

- Truck kills girl in Ashaiman