Business24 Newspaper 12 June 23

By Eugene Davis

Tax regime overburdening mining sector -Chamber of Mines

By Eugene Davis

The Ghana Chamber of Mines is asking government to develop policies and programmes which seek to improve businesses’ performance rather than “squeezing everything” out of them through taxes and levies.

According to the President of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Mr. Joshua Mortoti, the mining sector is being hit with so much taxes to the point that it could shut down some operations and also put new investments on hold, if the tax regime is not reconsidered.

Presenting his report at the 95TH Annual General Meeting of the Chamber in Accra on Friday, he stated the industry is willing to share alternative ideas that will bene t both parties because the growth of the economy will impact positively on all businesses.

“Despite being the backbone of our economic recovery programmes, I can say that the mining industry has been the most taxed industry in recent times. Notwithstanding these pressures, our industry provides great opportunities for sustainable national development. We believe that one of the surest

ways of achieving this is through industrial linkages. We, therefore, urge the Ministries of Trade and Industry and Lands and Natural Resources to synchronize policies to help achieve this objective of local input manufacturing.”

Mr. Mortoti, indicated that imposition of taxes including the Growth and Sustainability Levy (GSL) Levy endangers the continuous operations of some mines and risks curtailing the expected cash ows associated with the impost.

“Such an outcome would not only hurt the state’s revenue objectives but also threaten the security of employment, businesses of mining support service rms, as well as mining rms’ continued investment in their host communities.”

Others such as Ex-Re nery Price, Energy Debt Recovery Levy, Price Stabilisation and Recovery Levy, Income Tax, Ring Fencing, Exclusion of Consumables from the Mining List.

They also called for the adoption of a sliding scale royalty regime based on the price of minerals which they reckon enhances predictability in the

scal regime and accommodates the volatile mood swings of the minerals market, especially the price of gold, the mineral most mined in Ghana.

The Chamber also proposed to government to retain the existing practice where mining companies have binding retention agreements based on their forex requirements. Apart from disrupting the commercial arrangements between the mines and their suppliers, a variation in the mineral revenue retention regime will also saddle them with additional transaction costs and potential delays.

They also urged government to expedite action on the Western Railway Line since it has the inherent potential to generate revenue to pay back the initial investment cost.

CEO of the Chamber, Dr. Sulemanu Koney reiterated his call on the need to step up security in the mining areas, which he says was deteriorating.

He noted that as the chamber continue to pursue its goal of positioning Ghana as the mining support services hub in West Africa as well as promote sustainable and responsible mining in the country, “the

quest is threatened by the worsening security situation in the mining industry. Our members are under attack on two fronts: scal as well as physical.”

On the scal front, he explained that the lack of predictability and the constant tweaking of the scal regime, even for companies with Development and Investment Agreements which freeze their scal terms, is a worry for investors. These same investors have their in-country assets under siege by illegal miners who invade concessions and destroy properties with impunity and mostly without consequences.

Lands Minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor in a speech read on his behalf maintained that they are working “hand in hand” with the chamber regarding the scal and physical fronts to bring some stability to the industry.

He also added that the ministry has been working on developing and implementing e ective collaborative approaches to combating illegal mining together with its related negative impacts. “These are aimed at promoting transformation, growth and development whiles ensuring that all stakeholders derive sustainable bene ts from the country’s miner-

al wealth.”

Gold Production inches up

Meanwhile, the country’s gold output increased from 2.8 million ounces in 2021 to 3.7 million ounces in 2022 due to concurrent growth in the output of both large and small-scale sectors, the chamber announced at the AGM. This translates into a 32 percent increase in production in the gold sub-sector. The large-scale gold sub-sector recorded its highest output in the country’s history in 2022.

This according to the address by Mr. Mortoti was necessitated by a combination of fresh

output and expansion of production at existing large-scale mines drove the large-scale sector’s contribution to national gold output from 2.7 million ounces in 2021 to 3.1 million ounces in 2022, representing an increment of 13 percent.

The planned gold production of the Chamber’s producing members would approach 3.2 million ounces at the end of 2023. This projected growth in production would be driven by a broad-based increase in output. Overall, the country’s gold output is projected to range between 3.3 to 3.5 million ounces in 2023.

Deforestation continues to hurt the environment -Speaker

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has bemoaned activities of deforestation which has taken its toll on the country’s forest cover and asked stakeholders, including the rank and le to rethink their attitude towards the environment.

Ghana has witnessed a signicant decline in forest cover over the years. Once blessed with a vast expanse of thriving rainforests, the country now ranks among the tropical nations with the highest percentage of deforestation.

According to Mr. Bagbin, alarming statistics speak for

themselves: from a staggering 8.2 million hectares in 1900, our forest cover has dwindled to a mere 1.6 million hectares. This distressing trend highlights the environmental degradation caused by various factors, including informal small-scale gold mining and uncontrolled tree felling without the commensurate reforestation e orts.

In an address to mark this year’s Tree Planting Exercise at Parliament House, he said “The goal of halting deforestation and restoring our forests, as outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, will be unattainable if we persist in our current attitude

By Eugene Davis

toward the forest cover, we have. This is precisely why initiatives like Green Ghana Day are of paramount importance in our national agenda.”

He also made an impassioned appeal to Ghanaians who participated in this year’s Green Ghana Day to be custodians of the saplings they planted in order to ensure that the objectives of the exercise are attained.

“I encourage all who participated in today's exercise to be the custodians of the saplings they planted. Visit them and nurture them regularly as they grow into majestic symbols of hope, resilience, and sustainable development. Through our collective e orts, we can ensure that Ghana achieves the purpose of the Green Ghana Day exercise, and secure a greener and brighter future for generations to come.”

To him, the theme for this year's Green Ghana Day, "Our Forests, Our Health," underscores how critical it is to preserve the forests and vegetation for the well-being of humanity. In the previous Green Ghana Day event, parliament planted 400 trees. For this year, it plans to add 300 more trees, bringing the total

to 700.

On the existence of the previous trees planted, “I have been informed that about 80 percent of the trees planted survived. I believe we can do better by increasing the survival rate.” he noted.

Green Ghana Day, Mr.Bagbin stated symbolizes an investment in the country’s collective future, for which reason he urged all Ghanaians to actively participate in the exercise, “Planting trees is not merely an ecological gesture; it is a profound act of love and responsibility toward our nation and health.”

The Acting Regional Manager, Forestry Commission, George Agbenowoshi disclosed that 850,000 di erent species of trees would be planted in the Greater Accra region.

Mr.Ebenezer Ahuma Djietror, Deputy Clerk at Parliament commended government for the initiative and pledged the legislature’s commitment to the move, as well as stressing that it represents a ght against climate change.

SIGA Management pays courtesy call on Asantehene

As part of its plans to engage key stakeholders to gather support for its activities and Entities, the Director-General and senior management of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), have paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace.

The purpose of the visit was to o cially introduce SIGA to the Asantehene and also update him on it's activities so far. The visit also o ered them an opportunity to have discussions on areas in which SIGA can collaborate with the Palace for mutual bene ts.

Speaking at the meeting, Ambassador Edward Boateng thanked the Asantehene for the advice he gave him when he was initially appointed Director-General of SIGA. He stated that the advice had proved very valuable and has guided him well in the discharge of his duties to date.

Ambassador Boateng also took the opportunity to update the Asantehene on the key achievements of SIGA such as negotiating performance contacts with the Speci ed Entities to ensure that they operate pro tably and adhere to good governance practices, and collaborating with other government organisations such as the Controller and Accountant General, Public Services Commission, Auditor-General to mention a few to support the Speci ed Entities.

The Asantehene on his part welcomed the delegation and stated that the work that SIGA is mandated to do was quite crucial to the development of the country as the State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) provide a lot of development to Ghanaians. He also stated that for SIGA to be e ective in its mandate, it needed to be fully empowered. He charged Government to resource and empower SIGA to be able to raise fund-

ing for SOEs as well as review their annual budgets and operational plans. He said, “SIGA must work hard to make these SOEs pro table and eventually weaned them o government support.”

Ambassador Boateng thanked the Asantehene for the warm reception and his pledge to support the work of SIGA and promised to periodically update the Asantehene on the status of progress, request his advice and support when needed.

Members of the delegation included Ambassador Edward Boateng, Director-General,

Franklin Asafo Adjei, Board Member, Madam Hollistar Duah-Yentumi, General Manager, Operations, Madam Alexandra Totoe General Manager Finance and Administration, Mr. Kwame Agyemang-Budu. Senior Technical Advisor, Energy Sector, Stephen Asiedu, Head of Division, Corporate A airs, Mr. Alex Agambila. Ag. HOD, Finance, Godfred Sowah Khartey, Manager, Director-General Secretariat, Mr. Musa Frimpong Manager, Governance Risk and Compliance, Araba Pratt. Assistant Manager Corporate A airs.

FBNBank supports Green Ghana Project

FBNBank Ghana has made a donation to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in support of this year’s Green Ghana Project at a short ceremony which formed part of a tree planting activity undertaken under the auspices of Rotary District 9102 at Pantang Hospital in the La Nkwatanang Municipality in the Greater Accra Region.

The Green Ghana Project is an initiative of the Government of Ghana which started in 2021 with a day set aside, dubbed, ‘Green Ghana Day’, to create awareness across the country on the need for collective action towards the restoration of the country’s lost forest cover. The government is targeting to plant some 10 million trees this year. Some bene ts of Green Ghana

include inculcating the values of planting and nurturing trees, enhancing livelihoods to rural communities through engagement in the production of seeds, creating national awareness of the necessity of collective action towards the restoration of degraded landscape in the country and above all mitigate climate change.

FBNBank’s contribution of Twenty Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS20,000) was made in line with the Bank’s Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability (CR&S) agenda which has the environment as one of its pillars.

Making the presentation, Mr. Victor Yaw Asante, the Managing Director of FBNBank and the Rotary District 9102 Gover-

nor said, “conserving the environment is a responsibility that must be headed by all to secure a sustainable future for Ghana. To that we remain focused on putting our customers and communities rst. This, we have sought to do through the rich value and excellence of what the Bank contributes to the relationship with its stakeholders as a whole, particularly the customers.”

The cheque was received on behalf of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources by the Honourable Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Benito Owusu-Bio who expressed his gratitude to FBNBank for their kind gesture and also commended the Bank for demonstrating leadership in support-

ing government’s e ort in the Green Ghana campaign. He also urged Ghanaians to get involved in the national “Let’s Go Tree Planting” initiative which would see the government leading the charge to plant over 10 million trees.

Ghana has been losing its green cover at an alarming rate over the past decade and this has called for serious action on the part of all to arrest the deforestation. According to Global Forest Watch in their report, Ghana Deforestation Rates & Statistics, “In 2010, Ghana had 7.00Mha of natural forest, extending over 30 percent of its land area. In 2021, it lost 101kha of natural forest, equivalent to 62.9Mt of CO2 emissions”. Ghana has some estimated 6.6 million hectares of

forest, made up of 1.2 million hectares of closed forest and 5.4 million hectares of open forest. These have, however, come under threat, largely, from activities such as illegal mining and illegal logging.

FBNBank has in its 27 years of operating in Ghana remained focused on putting its customers and communities rst. This, it has sought to do through the rich value and excellence of what the Bank contributes to the relationship

with its stakeholders as a whole, particularly customers.

FBNBank Ghana is a member of the First Bank of Nigeria Limited Group which is renowned for its great customer service and general stakeholder engagement garnered over its 128 years of operation.

FBNBank has 23 branches and three service centres across the country with almost 500 sta . FBNBank o ers universal banking services to individuals and businesses in Ghana.

Otumfuor applauds Vodafone Ghana's unwavering commitment to Asanteman

Manhyia Palace. The visit was aimed at communicating Vodafone Ghana’s continued sponsorship of the Asantehene Open Golf Tournament, a commitment they have upheld for seven successive years since 2017. She also announced the celebration of the 2023 Vodafone Ashanti Month, which is an annual celebration.

relationship with Otumfuor Osei Tutu II and the people of Asanteman, while also fostering sustainable development in the region.

The Asantehene, Otumfuor Osei Tutu II, has lauded Vodafone Ghana for its unwavering commitment and substantial contributions towards the progress of the Ashanti Region.

Otumfuor Osei Tutu II highlighted Vodafone Ghana's steadfast support for the Asantehene Open Golf Championship, even amidst

challenging economic times. He also recognised the company's crucial initiatives that have signicantly impacted the region, particularly in the realms of education and healthcare.

This commendation was made during a visit by Vodafone Ghana’s senior management team, led by CEO Patricia Obo-Nai, to the

Otumfuor Osei Tutu II expressed his gratitude to Vodafone for spearheading sustainable development initiatives in the Ashanti region through job creation, building digital economy as well as enhancing the health and education sectors. He encouraged Vodafone to continue its commendable e orts.

In response, Patricia Obo-Nai thanked Otumfuor and reafrmed Vodafone Ghana’s dedication to Asanteman. She emphasised that their support for the golf tournament and other initiatives are geared towards fortifying Vodafone’s

“As part of our Ashanti Month celebrations, we aim to give back to our customers and the community. So, we urge individuals and businesses to leverage all the opportunities we o er during Ashanti Month and beyond," she said.

The month-long celebration will include the launch of an ICT hub in the Ashanti Regional Library, a collaborative e ort with the Ghana Library Authority. Moreover, Vodafone Ghana will revive several initiatives aimed at enhancing long-term health and sustainability outcomes. These include Healthfest, a free health screening initiative; Homecoming, an initiative to settle bills for insolvent hospital patients; and free ultrasound for pregnant women in Pipie in the Bosomtwe district.

Absa Bank donates blood to boost Ghana's reserves

Absa Bank Ghana has taken a signi cant step in supporting Ghana's National Blood Service.

Responding to the Service's urgent appeal to bolster blood reserves, Absa bank has generously contributed 150 pints of blood to the country's blood bank.

The demand for blood in Ghana consistently exceeds its available supply, making blood donation a vital aspect

of healthcare delivery.

Under the inspiring banner of "Spread Love. Donate Blood," Absa's dedicated Citizenship team successfully mobilized a substantial number of employees, local students, and volunteers at their Accra Head O ce to participate in the donation drive.

Stringent safety protocols were strictly enforced to ensure the well-being of all donors and volunteers

Hon. Benito Owusu Bio, Deputy Minister of Lands & Natural Resources (left) receiving the donation from Mr. Victor Yaw Asante, FBNBank Ghana MD/CEO (right)

throughout the event.

Priscilla Yeboah, Head of Citizenship at Absa Bank, expressed her delight, stating "We are thrilled to have made a meaningful contri-

bution to the call for increased blood donations to bene t Ghana's healthcare system. As a responsible corporate citizen, we recognize the importance of collaboration and partnerships in strengthening our

healthcare infrastructure to positively impact and transform lives. This is just the beginning of an enduring collaboration between Absa Bank and the National Blood Service."

To ensure the safety and eligibility of donors, only individuals aged 18 and above, weighing at least 50kg, and in good health were allowed to participate.

Cling Events Ghana adjudged Best Business in Interior and Exterior Decor

A leading Ghanaian-owned events management and interior decor rm, Cling Events Ghana, has been adjudged the Best Business in Interior and Exterior Decor in Ghana.

Cling Events Ghana won the coveted award at the ninth edition of the Business Executive Excellence Award 2023.

This year’s Business Executive Excellence Award ceremony was held recently at the Marriott Hotel in Accra. The ceremony was attended by captains of industry. Picking up the prestigious award on behalf of her company, was Nana Akua Aku o, the Chief Executive O cer (CEO) of Cling Events Ghana.

Ms. Aku o dedicated the award to the sta of Cling Events Ghana, whose hard work and dedication

to service, she said, has contributed to the company's success over the year.

She observed that Cling Events shall at all times remain committed to providing excellent service to its clients, saying Cling Events Ghana takes pride in delighting all its clients and doing business in a more responsible and trustworthy manner.

About Cling Events Ghana

Cling Events Ghana is a company that o ers event planning and designing to both private and corporate entities.

The company o ers wedding planning, designing, decor, Rentals, Birthday parties, Anniversaries, Floral bouquets, Hamper, photo shoots, Wedding stylists, Gift delivery, corporate events, Floral arrangements, Interior

design, Branding, Events training courses and Souvenirs.

Working in partnership with its clients, Cling Events Ghana shares its advice and experience so a client’s event planning experience

is inspired and stress-free.

Cling Events Ghana and its CEO believe the journey towards a client’s beautiful event day should be exciting and exhilarating without facing each decision alone.

The Giving Capsules: End the pity party, prioritize your mental health

people worldwide. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29 year-olds. We can only drop the self-pity party when we have increase knowledge and understanding of mental health issues as this will support reduce stigma and discrimination, help people seek help when needed, support others who are struggling, and promote well-being for everyone. So I ask you. How are you doing today?

Happy New Month and how are you today? The response of many in recent times to the question has been; “we are managing”. Are you also managing or you are ne! It is said that, healing takes time, and asking for help is a courageous step, same way self-care is how you take your power back. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. That is why, it's okay to not be okay as long as you are not giving up. "Your disorder or situation does not de ne you.

Your strength and courage

does." – Unknown

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health problems and disorders are common and a ect people of all ages, genders, cultures, and backgrounds. Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, a ecting more than 264 million people. Anxiety disorders a ect more than 284 million people worldwide. Dementia a ects about 50 million people worldwide. Substance use disorders a ect about 271 million

Let’s have a conversation on mental health and why it’s important to prioritize our mental health.

According to the World Health Organization, Mental Health is the state of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It in uences how we think, feel, and act. It also a ects how we cope with stress, relate to others, and make choices and as such mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood to adulthood. It can change over time, depending on various factors such as life events, biological factors, economic hardship or environmental factors.

It is worth noting that economic hardship and mental health are closely linked, as nancial stress can a ect people's emotional and psychological well-being. According to researchgate, these are ways that economic hardship can impact mental health. Economic hardship can cause or worsen mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and suicidal behavior and addiction. This is because economic hardship can create feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, shame, guilt, anger, and fear. It can also reduce people's access to basic needs, social support, health care, and coping resources.

Mental health problems can on the other hand also cause or worsen economic hardship, as they can impair people's functioning, productivity, and income. This is because mental health problems can a ect people's motivation, concentration, decision-making, communication, and interpersonal skills. They can also increase people's absenteeism, disability,

and health care costs. And here is the tricky one, economic hardship and mental health problems can create a vicious cycle that is hard to break. People who experience economic hardship are more likely to develop mental health problems, and people who have mental health problems are more likely to face economic hardship. This can lead to chronic stress, poor coping, and reduced quality of life.

According to the W.H.O mental illnesses are common health conditions that a ect how people think, feel, or behave. They can cause distress and impair functioning in di erent aspects of life but can be treated with di erent methods, such as medication, psychotherapy, counseling, or self-help strategies. The type and duration of treatment may vary depending on the person and the condition. For self- help strategies let’s learn to prioritize our mental health. Prioritizing your mental health is a great way to improve your well-being and happiness. Here are some tips that may help you do that:

1. What are the things that causes you stress. Identify your stressors and focus on the most important ones. Try to eliminate or reduce the sources of stress that are not essential or benecial for you

2. Set boundaries with people or situations that negatively a ect your mental health. Learn to say no to things that you don't want to do or that make you feel worse.

3. Challenge your negative self-talk and replace it with more positive and realistic thoughts. Don't believe everything you think and look for evidence that contradicts your negative assumptions.

4. Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Eat well, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and avoid alcohol or drugs that can worsen your mood. Be a thinker and not a drinker.

5. Practice mindfulness and meditation to calm your mind and body. Mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the present moment, without judging them.

6. Seek social support from people who care about you and understand you. Talk to your friends, family, or other trusted people about how you feel and what you need. You can also join online or o ine communities that share your interests or experiences. This is very important, don’t just talk to anyone. It should be people you trust can provide you support. As some

people may make you worse o by broadcasting your challenges instead of being con dential.

7. Reach out to a professional if you feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or suicidal. Therapy can help you explore your emotions, cope with your challenges, and receive appropriate treatment. You can also call a helpline or crisis center if you need immediate help.

8. Go at your own pace and don't compare yourself to others. Everyone has their own journey and challenges, and there is no need to rush or pressure yourself. Do what feels right for you and celebrate your progress. Your mental health knowledge is important for many reasons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the World Health Organization provides us with some guidance. Mental health knowledge can help you understand yourself and others better. It can help you recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health problems, and seek help when needed. It can also help you support your friends, family, or colleagues who may be struggling with their mental health. It can help you reduce stigma and discrimination. Stigma is the negative attitude or judgment that people have towards mental health issues or people who have them. Discrimination is the unfair treatment or exclusion of people based on their mental health status. Stigma and discrimination can prevent people from seeking help, accessing services, or enjoying their rights.

Mental health knowledge can help you promote well-being and resilience. Well-being is the state of feeling good and functioning well in di erent aspects of life. Resilience is the ability to cope with stress and adversity. Mental health knowledge can help you learn and practice skills and strategies that can enhance your well-being and resilience, such as self-care, mindfulness, positive thinking, problem-solving, and coping.

There are also mental health dangers being the risks and harms associated with mental health problems and disorders. Impaired functioning in di erent aspects of life, such as work, education, social relationships, and daily activities. Increased morbidity and mortality from physical health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and infectious diseases. Increased risk of suicide, self-harm, violence, and substance abuse. Reduced quality of life and well-being, as well as increased su ering and distress. Stigma and discrimination that can limit access to opportunities, rights, and services.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health problems and disorders are

common and a ect people of all ages, genders, cultures, and backgrounds. These statistics show the magnitude and impact of mental health dangers on individuals and societies. They also highlight the need for more awareness, prevention, treatment, and care for mental health issues. Some global statistics on mental health dangers are: Mental health problems and disorders account for 13% of the global burden of disease, measured in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, a ecting more than 264 million people. Anxiety disorders a ect more than 284 million people worldwide. Bipolar disorder a ects about 45 million people worldwide. Schizophrenia a ects about 20 million people worldwide. Dementia a ects about 50 million people worldwide. Substance use disorders a ect about 271 million people worldwide. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29 year-olds, and claims more than 700,000 lives every year. Look consider some statistics looking at the African and Ghanaian dimension of the issues as well. Mental health issues are a serious concern in Africa, as they a ect millions of people and have signi cant impacts on their well-being, productivity, and human rights. Mental health in Africa - the Lancet Global Health and researchgate discussing mental health in Africa as well as the World Health Organization looking at reversing suicide, mental health crisis in Africa shares these issues of concern. Locally in Ghana, the mental health issues a ect many people and have signi cant impacts on their well-being, productivity, and human rights. These thematic areas discusses the African and Ghanaian causes;

• Prevalence and burden of mental disorders: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 116 million people in Africa su er from a mental disorder, up from 53 million in 1990. Mental disorders account for 11% of the risk factors associated with suicide in Africa. The common mental disorders in Africa include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and dementia.

In Ghana, about 13% of Ghanaians su er from a mental disorder, of which 3% su er from a severe mental disorder and 10% su er from a moderate to mild mental disorder. Mental disorders are a leading cause of years lived with disability in Ghana, behind iron-de cient anaemia. Among

patients seeking treatment for mental health issues, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and mood disorders are the top three diagnoses, although a huge percentage of people receive no speci c diagnosis.

• Treatment gap and barriers to care: Despite the high prevalence and burden of mental disorders, only a small fraction of Africans with mental health conditions receive adequate treatment and support from health facilities. This means that there is a huge treatment gap for mental health in Africa, which varies from 75% to 85% depending on the disorder. Some of the barriers to accessing care include lack of awareness, stigma, discrimination, and cost, and distance, shortage of trained sta , inadequate infrastructure, and insu cient funding. In Ghana, despite the high prevalence and burden of mental disorders, only about 2% of Ghanaians with mental health conditions receive psychiatric treatment and support from health facilities. This means that there is a huge treatment gap of 98% for mental health in Ghana.

• Human rights violations and abuses: Many people with mental disorders in Africa and Ghana face human rights violations and abuses, such as neglect, abandonment, physical restraint, chaining, beating, and starvation, denial of medical care, forced medication, involuntary admission, and sexual violence. These abuses often occur in psychiatric hospitals, prayer camps, traditional healing centers, or within families and communities. People with mental disorders also face discrimination and exclusion in education, employment, housing, and social services.

• Policy and legal framework: Many African countries have national mental health policies and laws that aim to promote and protect the rights of people with mental disorders, and to provide accessible, a ordable, and quality mental health care for all. However, these policies and laws have not been fully implemented or enforced due to various challenges such as lack of resources, coordination, monitoring, evaluation, and advocacy. These are some of the major mental health issues of concern in Africa. They require urgent attention and action from all stakeholders, including the governments, health sector, civil society, media, academia, and international partners.

• Ghana has a national

mental health policy (2012) and a mental health act (2012) that aim to promote and protect the rights of people with mental disorders, and to provide accessible, a ordable, and quality mental health care for all. However, these policies and laws have not been fully implemented or enforced due to various challenges such as lack of resources, coordination, monitoring, evaluation, and advocacy.

It is perfectly okay to feel sad, angry, annoyed, frustrated, scared, or anxious. Having feelings doesn't make you a negative person. It makes you human. So please drop the pity party, snap out of it and let’s create some hope for ourselves together. You are not your thoughts. You are the observer of your thoughts. Let the only meaningful journey be the actual journey within. Turn on your light and nd happiness

again even in the darkest time and prioritize your mental health.

Baptista is a Hybrid Professional and the Executive Director of ProHumane Afrique International. ProHumane is a charitable, development & think thank organization working with communities & individuals to create sustainable solutions to trans-

form communities through diverse pro-poor initiatives. Pro-poor initiatives are initiatives that help to alleviate poverty. Baptista is a realist, a able, simple and humane. You can reach her via e-mail on prohumaneafrique@gmail.com and follow this conversation on all our social media sites: Linked-In/ Twitter/ Facebook/ Instagram: ProHumane Afrique International. Call or WhatsApp: +233(0)262213313. Hashtag: #behumane #thegivingcapsules #prohumaneafriqueint #fowc

Pernod Ricard Ghana’s planting of 10000 trees begins at Moree

In line with its e orts to preserve the environment and ecosystems, Pernod Ricard Ghana, a subsidiary of the Pernod Ricard group, a leading producer of wines and spirits, in collaboration with Green Republic Project has targeted to plant 10,000 trees over the month of June.

The project was launched in Moree, in the Central Region, on June 5th, to mark World Environmental Day. To begin the tree-planting project, Pernod Ricard Ghana planted 1500 trees in Moree out of the 10,000 targeted trees.

Speaking at the project launch, Eunice Osei-Tutu, the Sustainability and Responsibility Manager, Penord Ricard Ghana, said the initiative is part of the Company’s commitment to nurture every terroir and its biodiversity for today and generations to come.

"In this month of June, which also marks the Green Ghana Day, we are planting 10,000 trees across the country, and we chose World Environmental Day as the day to launch this project at Moree. This project falls under one of the four pillars of Pernod Ricard’s 2030 Sustainability and Responsibility Roadmap dubbed ‘Nurturing

Terroirs’. Under this pillar, we take action to nurture nature, the environment and biodiversity. This is because at Pernod Ricard, all our products depend on a ourishing ecosystem. Even beyond that, as human beings, we need nature to thrive. So, we are here to contribute our quota to the environment so that this planet will continue to be sustainable for us and our children".

"To sustain these trees, we have partnered with the Green Republic Project who will ensure the trees continue to grow … Last year, in June, we restored a previously mined area at Kyebi in the Eastern Region where we planted 2,400 trees. This year, we are starting in the Central Region, and we will continue in the Northern Region", she noted.

Nana Yaw Osei Darkwa, Convener of the Green Republic Project, said the project is in line with its campaign to plant 20 million trees in the country over a 10-year period.

"Green Republic is a youth social movement that seeks to sustain the environment. As a result, we also focus on trees because, without them, humans cannot live.

We have a commitment to plant

20 million trees in the next 10 years and so we have collaborated with Pernod Ricard to plant trees at Moree. And as part of the Green Republic Project, we have the responsibility to ensure these trees survive".

On his part, Nana Obokese Ampah, Regent of Moree and Apagyahene of Asebu State in the Central Region, said he was elated to have Pernod Ricard Ghana and Green Republic plant trees in Moree.

"We had a very devasting incidence at Moree a few weeks ago where tidal waves destroyed

many homes, and I understand it was as a result of climate issues, so we are glad Pernod Ricard Ghana and Green Republic are here to not just plant trees but to also educate people on tree planting. I believe their presence here has encouraged the people of Moree to see the need to plant more trees".

He also admonished all Corporate Ghana, good citizens of Moree, and Ghanaians to come on board to plant trees on the shores of Moree and educate people to stop sand mining and exhibit good environmental practices.

CIDAN INVESTMENTS LIMITED

WEEKLY MARKET REVIEW FOR WEEK ENDING

June 2, 2023

CIDAN INVESTMENTS LIMITED

WEEKLY MARKET REVIEW FOR WEEK ENDING

June 2, 2023

CIDAN INVESTMENTS LIMITED

WEEKLY MARKET REVIEW FOR WEEK ENDING June 2, 2023

Samsung Bespoke Life 2023 puts the spotlight on technologies, sustainability

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. marks the beginning of a new chapter for home appliances at Bespoke Life 2023, the company’s third annual showcase of the latest updates to its Bespoke line-up.

“Bespoke Life embodies Samsung’s commitment to making our homes and future more sustainable by reimagining the appliances we rely on every day,” said Jong-Hee (JH) Han, Vice Chairman, CEO, and Head of the DX (Device eXperience) Division at Samsung Electronics. “By introducing new and creative ways for users to ‘Bespoke’ their life, our latest products, and solutions empower anyone to enjoy a more sustainable, connected, and stylish lifestyle.”

Sustainable Life – Technologies That Make a Positive Impact

Samsung’s Bespoke Life concept was born out of the belief that home appliances are key to creating a more sustainable tomorrow. Accordingly, this year’s Bespoke event highlights Samsung’s e orts to further reduce carbon emissions across the entire product lifecycle.

From sourcing and production to distribution, usage, and recycling, Samsung is redesigning each stage of the product lifecycle to help reduce energy usage and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Examples of the company’s e orts to recycle more resources include operating a closed-loop recycling centre, incorporating bioplastic material from waste oil into Bespoke refrigerators’ storage baskets, and expanding its use of recycled shing nets.

In addition to promoting reductions in carbon emissions and energy usage, Samsung continues to take an active role in tackling microplastic pollution. After developing a laundry cycle that reduces micro ber discharge by up to 54%, Samsung and Patagonia have teamed up once again to launch the Less Micro ber™ Filter. The Less Micro ber™ Filter is capable of capturing up to 98% of microbers shed during laundry cycles. When used to wash two kilograms of laundry four times a week, the lter can help reduce up to 132 grams of microplastic discharge

per person per year — an amount equivalent to approximately eight 500ml plastic bottles. The Less Micro ber™ Filter is now available in Korea and the U.K. and will roll out to other countries in Q3 of this year.

Connected Life – Paving the Way for Hyper-Connected Homes

To “Bespoke” one’s life is to optimise devices in ways that streamline and empower your routine. By strengthening connectivity across the line-up and expanding AI to more product categories, Samsung is paving the way for a new era of hyper-connected homes.

Combining Samsung’s latest SmartThings enhancements and AI technology, Bespoke products o er a seamlessly automated home experience — one in which devices learn users’ usage patterns and provide personalised automation based on their smart home con guration and lifestyle. To make it easy for consumers to enjoy those experiences, Samsung has announced that it is integrating Wi-Fi support into all new Bespoke appliances and will make

connectivity a standard in all Samsung appliance line-ups in the coming years.

Stylish Life – Taking Personalised Design to the Next Level

The three million Bespoke refrigerators that have been sold worldwide since the line-up’s launch underline consumers’ resounding interest in appliances that o er more options and functionality than the old standards. Today, this rethinking of what appliances should o er users continues to de ne Bespoke design — a design approach that grows more dynamic and distinct each time it expands to a new product category.

As of this year, the Bespoke line-up now includes a total of 15 product categories available to consumers in 52 countries. Each expansion of the line-up presents an opportunity to cater to more lifestyles and needs.

The Bespoke 4-Door Flex™ is available for purchase in the colours Glam Pink and Glam White with Lavender in Samsung authorized retail stores now.