GHANAIAN NEWS - MAY 2021

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Inauguration ceremony of the New Ghana Union of Canada (GUC) held in Toronto By: Emmanuel Ayiku, Toronto, Ontario

The Virtual event was held on May 24th and hosted by Ms. Grace Ataa, the V.P of Equisoft.

Grace welcomed the guest and thanked them for attending the inauguration ceremony. She then gave a brief introduction and explained the purpose of the gathering.

The Ghana Union of Canada aims to establish a unified voice for Canada’s Ghanaian community. Started out of a need to have a voice at the federal level, the GUC is committed to working with all Ghanaian communities across Canada and representing them both federally and provincially.

Sarah Awuah

Hon. Judy Sgro, MP

Oseadeyor Nana Kwarteng Amanin

Dr. Ama DeGraft Johnson

Grace said the inauguration is not about one person, one thought or one action. It is about the evolution of our collective action as a Ghanaian community, one voice, in Canada.

Delivering the Keynote speech, Nii Tawiah Okurajah Koney, the Founder and Director of the Afrika Diaspora History Library said, he was honoured to be a part of the historic initiative. Following up,

Grace Ata

Nii Tawiah Okurajah Koney Prof. Paul Banahene Adjei

Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremateng

Koney said that Canada’s Ghana Union is “one the Obonu (Talking drums) of Ghana will never stop people and one voice.” Koney explained how the beating in our hearts and our souls until the mission initiative’s objective is important, expressing how is accomplished. cont’d on pg. 43

Jordin Oppong of Broookview Middle School features in TDSB Anti-Black Racism Campaign in Toronto its schools and in institutions across Canada.

According to Karen Murray, the Centrally Assigned Principal of the newly established TDSB Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement, the Center, “has a variety of ways in which we will be engaging- anything from student wellbeing connected to family, advocacy for parents.” And that the centre will work to make Black students feel a sense of belonging and give them the proper tools for success.

Karen Murray was speaking at the launching of the initiative in Toronto during the week at which Jordin Oppong among other High School students were featured.

Oppong who is presently a student in

By Joe Kingsley Eyiah, Toronto

Jordin Oppong,14, is being featured prominently in a recent initiative launched by the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) to combat anti-Black racism and to promote Black Students Excellence (BSSE) in Toronto. The TDSB is the largest school board in the whole of Canada. It is the most multicultural municipality of the country.

Jordin Oppong who is a Ghanaian Canadian attends the Broookview Middle School in Jane/Finch area which is one of the most challenging neighbourhoods of Toronto.

The TDSB has released extensive data over the years admitting antiBlack racism is deeply entrenched in

Jordin Oppong

the Grade 8 core class of Mr. Eyiah, a Ghanaian Canadian teacher, grew up in the Jane and Finch area of Toronto.

She likes her neighbourhood, but feels her community is stigmatized. She is a hardworking student, very respectful and eloquent in advocating for herself and other students in her school.

Speaking to the press during the launching of this new initiative by TDSB in Toronto, Jordin Oppong said there is a stereotype that Black people don’t excel “when they come here, places like here.”

The young Ghanaian Canadian girl has dreams of being on the big screen one day. “I will like to be in TV shows,” Oppong said. “And go on to movies, that will be really exciting.”

We wish Jordin Oppong the best and God’s blessings in all her endeavours.

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EDITORIAL KEEPING YOU IN TOUCH WITH NEWS FROM HOME AND LOCAL COMMUNITY ISSUES

EDITORIAL Publisher / Editor Emmanuel Ayiku Contributing Editor Joe Kingsley Eyiah Director of Operations Comfort Ayiku Community Reporter Jonathan Annobil

The Ghanaian News Publishes news and comments from the Community, serves Ghanaians across Canada with good source of information is committed to give good community Journalism The Ghanaian News is published in Canada by The Ghanaian News Corporation Editorial Office 1111 Albion Road, Suite 103 Etobicoke, Ont. M9V 1A9 Tel:(416) 916-3700 Advertising Fax (416) 916-6701 Website: www.ghanaiannews.ca E-mail: cayiku@gmail.com info@ghanaiannews.ca $1:00 per copy Subscription costs $66.00 for one year. including postage U.S. and foreign subscriptions costs US$120 per year.

Letters to the Editor We encourage your feedback and value your comments. Please feel free to write to us. keep letters to a maximum of 200 words, include your full name, Telephone # and mailing address with all correspondence.

Address your letters to the Editor The Ghanaian News 1111Albion Rd., Suite 103 Etobicoke, Ont., M9V 1A9 Tel: 416-916-3700 or Fax: 416-916-6701 or e-mail us at info@ghanaiannews.ca

Articles appearing in various columns of the Ghanaian News are intended to generate civil and informed public discussions.

You do not have to agree with opinions expressed by the writers.

That should encourage you to write to express your own views.

This is the way we generate lively and civil discussions in the community. Rejoinders are not forums for personal insults and we want readers to adhere to these principles.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage

Summer 2021: Celebrating the Second Ghana-Canada day With COVID-19 Restrictions It is most likely that for the second time ever, Canada’s National Day, July 1st, which also happens to be Ghana’s Republic Day will be observed this year without the usual festive outdooring activities and celebrations.

This has been one very important day on the calendar of Canada, and on the calendar of Ghanaian Community members across Canada which many look forward to.

On this occasion every year, Canadian residents of all stripes gather in parks and public places across the country to celebrate Canada Day, the day (in 1867) that Canada became the Confederation it is today as Canada.

By some coincidence, this day has, until recently in Ghana, been observed as Ghana’s “Republic Day”.

This was the day Ghana’s first Prime Minister Kwame Nkrumah declared Ghana as a Republic free from the last vestiges of British colonial control. It was the day when the British Monarch ceased to be the Head of State of Ghana and the first Prime Minister, Kwame Nkrumah, assumed the reins of power as the first President of the First Republic of Ghana. That day is no more celebrated in Ghana as Republic Day. Those public holidays in Ghana have been reconfigured and re-aligned with other events.

In Canada however, the Ghanaian communities across the country still cherish this day…the only day in the year that Canadians of Ghana origin and their Canadian counterparts can join hands to enjoy social activities, tinged with political undertones, together.

The day has also been filled, always, with lots of fun activities: games, authentic Ghanaian cuisine and fireworks that all go deep into the night.

This year will be different. Over the past three months, outdoor activities involving large gathering of persons are banned because of the fear of potential public spread of the raging global pandemic called COVID-19.

It is just a few weeks to the day but it does not look like these public celebrations will take place this year.

It is not possible that restrictions on public gathering and celebrations may have been lifted in full by July 1st to enable the treasured celebrations to happen. It will be a strange and an unusual Canada day celebration, and for our community, a Canada-Ghana Day without the massive public gatherings in the Parks across the country.

Much as it is an unfortunate situation, we wish to caution our community members that the COVID-19 threat is real and we advice those who are still not vaccinated should go for it.. We should continue to observe all measures and regulations put in place by public officials and health experts. These include refraining from more than fifty people gathering for a celebration or whatever activity. The situation is still fluid. Please enjoy yourself in whatever ways you can, at home, and NOT in groups.

“Happy” Ghana-Canada Day! Please stay safe and well.

Communique - Federal Unbrella Association Working Group May 20th, 2021 Greetings Head of Missions and Community Members, It has come to the attention of the elected Presidents of the underlisted Ghanaian Canadian Associations (informally referred to hereinafter as AGAPIC (Alliance of Ghanaian Canadian Association Presidents in Canada)) that a private Non-profit Organization, by virtue of its name, Ghana Union of Canada (GUC) creates the perception that it represents the interest of all Ghanaians in Canada.

While we applaud such an initiative and even welcome more of such groups to promote the collective well-being of our community members, we wish to clarify and state on behalf of our Associations, that we are NOT part of this private non-profit organization in any official capacity. Neither does this organization speak for our Associations. Registration records can be retrieved for verification.

AGAPIC is a collective of elected leaders of registered GhanaianCanadian Associations across Canada, who are currently working on formalizing this unique collective to create an official channel for engaging with the Governments of Canada and Ghana on issues and policies to promote the well-being of our communities across Canada.

With this background in mind, as AGAPIC, we wish to emphasize once again that this private organization is independent of our collective, and we respect their rights as enshrined in the laws of Canada to operate as they deem fit.

We wish them well, and look forward to collaborating with any organization that is aligned with our mission and vision, as we work towards recalibrating AGAPIC to a formal federal body.

On behalf of AGAPIC, we the working committee here undersign as follows: 1. Dr. Charles Odame-Ankrah, member (President – GCAC -Calgary) 2. Emmanuel Duodu, member (President – GCAO -Toronto) 3. Claudette Opoku-Acheampong, member (GCAFM – Fort McMurray) 4. Dr. Anderson Assuah member (GUM – Manitoba) 5. Robert Bismark Otoo – (GCO – Ottawa) 6. Dr. Quist Adade (GCABC – British Columbia) 7. Jonathan Mpere (GAL – Lethbridge)

Mad Faustina Adwoa Dentaa Nyanin passes away

The Late Faustina Adwoa Dentaa Nyanin The sadden death of Madam Faustina Adwoa Dentaa of Toronto is announced. She was 61 years old. She passed away on Saturday 15th May 2021 at the Hamilton General Hospital. She is survived by husband Nana Kwame Gyamfi of New York, USA and 2 children MC Douglas and Marcus.

She was a parishioner of St. Andrews Roman Catholic Church Etobicoke (Ghanaian congregation) and a member of the Christian Mothers Association of St. Andrews. The one week celebration has already been held in Ghana.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later. She will be dearly missed. May her soul rest in peace.

The Ghanaian News May 2021 7

5 major events that have made Akufo-Addo’s government unpopular in its second term • The second term of President Akufo-Addo has witnessed several protests from citizens who are not satisfied with how the affairs of the state are being handled

Osafo-Maafo accusing them of contracting Kroll Associates in 2017 to recover assets from identified wrongdoers; investigate allegations of wrongdoing among others. They are said to have paid the company an amount of US$1 million (equivalent of GH¢4,890,000), yet there was no evidence of work done.

• Candidate Akufo-Addo had promised to among other things fight corruption, galamsey when given the nod but some say he is doing otherwise

Following what has been termed by many as a ‘premature retirement’, some section of Ghanaians believe that government deliberately pursued Domelovo and ousted him from office after he exposed corrupt deeds in government.

• The latest protest against the government that has gained momentum is the #FixTheCountry campaign, a move to get the government to deliver on its promise Nana Akufo Addo, President of Ghana After months of campaigning amid COVID-19, Ghanaian voters gave President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo a second term in office in December 2020 but nearly 130 days into the four-year tenure, the government has been plagued with what has been described as ‘abject hardships.’

Like the Israelites who cried to Moses that it would have been better to perish in Pharaoh’s Egypt than to die in the wilderness, it has gotten to a point where ‘the high cost of living’ has driven large sections of Ghanaians to regret their decision of maintaining the government in office.

It has been said by critical citizens that the New Patriotic Party, NPP, government has been characterized by broken promises, gross conflicts of interest, economic hardships, non-accountability, among other un-democratic norms.

These events have somewhat triggered the measure and comparison of progress between the then John Dramani Mahama-led administration and the current Akufo-Addo government.

With that being said, GhanaWeb has compiled a list of the top incidents that have made Akufo-Addo government unpopular in its second term.

Dumsor It seems consumers of electricity across the country who have been grappling with prolonged and intensified power outages over the past few months have become fed up.

Although the incessant ‘dumsor’ challenges have been attributed to transmission and distribution challenges, the government has been accused of deliberately destroying the legacy of former President John Dramani Mahama whom according to some Ghanaians left behind a stable energy sector.

FixtTheCountry protest It has gotten to a point where the Electricity Company of Ghana has published a load management timetable to manage what has been termed a ‘temporary load shedding’, an explanation many find unconvincing.

Culture of silence After Sam Jonah’s speech which triggered a national debate on the culture of silence in the coutry, a wide section of Ghanaians including the opposition National Democratic Congress, NDC and others have decried what they term as the return of a ‘culture of silence’ under President Nana AkufoAddo.

They have described as astonishing how a large number of individuals and civil society organizations that used to speak up against social ills have all gone mute under President Nana Akufo-Addo despite the rising cases of corruption, killing and torturing of journalists, and worsening economic downturn in the Ghanaian society.

According to them, the attacks directed at people who share views that do not favour the sitting government have necessitated ‘the silence’ in recent times.

Auditor General’s retirement

The #FixTheCountry campaign which started on social media commenced abruptly against economic hardships in Ghana.

With the main aim of holding politicians to account, angry young citizens who are of the view that the change they voted for has not materialized, took to social media to vent their spleen on the Akufo-Addo led government.

Protesters nationwide cited inconsistent power supply, lack of water in some parts of Ghana and the damage to our water bodies because of galamsey activities, economic hardship and other good governance and accountability demands as the drive of their campaign.

Galamsey The small-scale illegal mining practice that has left the country’s land and water resources destroyed, has been of great concern to Ghanaians in recent times.

With many accusing government of doing little to resolve the situation, others believe that the future of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government will heavily depend on their success with the current fight against galamsey.

President Akufo-Addo have been accused of forcibly retiring former Auditor-General, Daniel Domelovo, to cover up certain corrupt deals.

It can be recalled that some ‘big men’ from the ruling New Patriotic were indicted in the ‘galamsey’ business which is allegedly destroying the natural environment all in the name of finding gold.

Domelovo was retired by President Akufo-Addo almost two years after an Auditor General’s findings in 2019 accused the government of paying a private firm, Kroll and Associates US$1 million for no work done.

This was displayed in a viral video days after some 500 excavators seized by the Operation Vanguard team were reported missing.

Domelevo during his tenure indicted the Ministry of Finance and the Senior Minister, Mr. Yaw

It is in this light that Ghanaians have mounted pressure on government to find all means possible to combat ‘galamsey’ which has intensified in recent times. Source: www.ghanaweb.com

COVID-19: Ghana to be selected as manufacturing hub for vaccines in Africa

By Nii Larte Lartey

Ghana stands tall in the selection of African countries for the possible manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccines, the European Union (EU) has said.

Vice President of the EU, Valdis Dombrovskis, made the disclosure during President Akufo-Addo’s twoday working visit to Brussels in Belgium.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Jubilee House on Friday, May 21, 2021.

“At the meeting with the Vice President of the European Commission, Valdis Dombrovskis, the European Commission indicated the selection of Ghana as a possible manufacturing hub for COVID-19 vaccines in Africa,” the statement added.

The expected selection of the West-African country follows the initiatives already taken by the government of Ghana towards the domestic manufacturing of vaccines.

Former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng was named to be Chairman of the committee.

Two task force teams from the EU and Ghana will meet shortly to discuss modalities towards the realization of the initiative.

“I want to reiterate my determination that we should manufacture vaccines here in Ghana. To this end, a committee has been established under the chairmanship of the former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, the world-renowned scientist, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, which is formulating a concrete plan of action towards vaccine development and manufacturing,” said the President.

It was stated that the move if successful could get support from the European Investment Bank (EIB).

President, Akufo-Addo during his 24th COVID-19 address to the nation announced that the government has established a committee to formulate a concrete plan for vaccine development and manufacturing in Ghana.

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‘We want to get to stage one:’ Ontario premier floats idea of entering reopening plan ahead of schedule Premier Doug Ford says that he is “hopeful” that the province can enter the first stage of its reopening plan ahead of schedule but is waiting for the “green light” from Ontario’s top public health official.

Ontario has set June 14 as its target date for beginning the first stage of a three-stage reopening plan that is benchmarked to vaccination rates.

But during a press conference to announce that schools will remain closed for inperson learning until the fall, Ford said that his government has “put forward” a request to chief Medical Officer of Health Williams that could see the first stage begin sooner than initially thought.

The second stage would then begin at least including case counts and hospitalization 21 days later and would represent a broader data. reopening of the economy that will allow personal service business to operate, as well A senior government source told CTV News as outdoor amusement and water parks.

Toronto earlier on Wednesday that the Ford government is waiting to see whether there It would also permit outdoor gatherings of was any increase in COVID-19 transmission up to 25 people and small indoor gatherings following the Victoria Day weekend before of up to five people. making any decision on reopening early.

Premier Doug Ford had stood at 1,622 just one week ago.

A spokesperson for the premier’s office later clarified to CP24 that the request is simply to determine whether it would be possible to enter stage one prior to June 14 and doesn’t have a specific date attached to it.

“As we see the numbers come down and they are dropping rapidly we have put forward to Dr. Williams and the medical team the option of opening up earlier based on a cautious approach,” Ford said. “The framework will not change so what you are allowed to do will not change; that will stay consistent. But we want to get to stage one, everyone wants to get to stage one.”

News of the potential change in timeline comes as the province continues to see a decline in COVID-19 case counts.

On Wednesday, the rolling seven-day average of new cases dropped below 1,000 for the first time since early November. It

Once it begins, the first stage of the province’s reopening plan will allow non-essential retailers to open at 15 per cent capacity while permitting bars and restaurants to serve customers on their patios, among other things.

“If we are able to open up a few days earlier based on Dr. Williams advice then we get to go to stage two before July 1. I think that would be fabulous,” Ford said in explaining his thinking. “Again, based on the numbers and based on being cautious.

There is no one that wants this province to open up sooner than I do but I want to do it cautiously.”

The Ford government has said that it will not begin the first phase of its reopening plan until two weeks after 60 per cent of Ontario adults have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, a milestone that it will reach by the end of the week.

But there are also other public health indicators that are being considered,

The source also said that the government has not yet reached out to the business sector but would aim to provide businesses with advance notice if it does decide to begin stage one ahead of schedule.

“I think they (the province) have demonstrated a pragmatism and I think they know there are businesses that are hanging on but their fingernails right now that have just made it through this period and that even a week will make a difference to them,” Toronto Mayor John Tory told CP24 on Wednesday morning when asked about the prospect of an earlier reopening. “So yes there are all kinds of discussions going on about the desirability of opening as soon as possible and I think if the thresholds are met they might be at their cabinet meeting when that time comes saying ‘yeah we can do it now’ as opposed to some other date that has already been set.”

It should be noted that Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams has said that he wouldn’t personally support lifting restrictions until daily case counts are in the 550 to 600 range, a threshold which the province has not yet reached but has gotten closer to in recent days.

Nonetheless, there are increasing calls to reopen some businesses now, including from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business which released an open letter on Tuesday urging Ford to revise Ontario’s reopening dates so they are “in line with other provinces.”

Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Issac Bogoch, a member of the province’s vaccine task force, also took to Twitter on Wednesday to question why patios are closed “in the first place,” given what we know about the relatively “negligible” risk of COVID-19 transmission outdoors.

But at Queen’s Park, NDP Leader Andrea Horwath struck a different tone as she pleaded with Ford to “listen to what the experts have to say” and not to rush into lifting restrictions because it is politically popular.

“I think the government is making decisions based on polling and it is irresponsible and shameful frankly,” she said. “They really do need to step up here and not vary from a commitment to listen to what the experts advise. Otherwise we are going to end up exactly where we have ended up now which is another wave Doug Ford walked us into.”

CTV News Toronto’s Colin D’Mello

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The Ghanaian News May 2021

FOCUS Let’s Say No to Hybrid Learning!

By Joe Kingsley Eyiah, OCT, Brookview Middle School, Toronto-Canada

and the future of public education in Ontario, and it is vital that our employer hears directly from you.”

“Our members and the public education system are under direct attack from the Ford Government and the urgent threat that hybrid learning presents to our working conditions, and students’ learning conditions, is something that we have not faced in many years.”~ETT According to Nelson Mandela of blessed memory, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” I couldn’t agree with him the more!

The world over, each country has developed an education system that ensures the best for all of its children.

Canada is no exception. However, in Canada, each province/territory has the right to create education laws and set conditions for access to education. This makes the provincial governments responsible for providing education to meet the needs of their children. More often than not conservative governments have sacrificed public education on the altar of privatization. It is only by the vigilance and advocacy of other stakeholders in education such as teachers, parents and concerned workers’ unions that public education has survived attempts by governments ‘to put it on sale for the rich and affluent in the society at the detriment of their ordinary and vulnerable children.’

The story here is not different from the Ford government’s treatment of

What Is Hybrid Learning?: A hybrid approach to course delivery combines face-to-face classroom instruction with online activities. This approach reduces the amount of seat time in a traditional face-to-face course and moves more of the course delivery online.

public education in the province of Ontario in Canada.

The Elementary Teachers of Toronto (ETT), the largest union of teachers in Canada who work with most immigrant families in the country is asking parents and all good willing people in the province to say no to the hybrid learning the Ford government through the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) wants to bring to our classroom next school year. The the teachers’ union has made public the following strong statement: “Having successfully kept hybrid learning at bay this school year, ETT has learned that the TDSB has opened the door to hybrid learning in our classrooms for the 2021/2022 school year. This will have a tremendously negative impact on student learning, teacher workload,

In brief, hybrid learning is good for children whose parents will have the resources and means to support them during the virtual learning time. Teachers in inperson classrooms will have to pay teaching attention to part of their students who are learning online at the same time.

Children in the neighbourhoods of

Toronto will not benefit from hybrid learning.

The Ford government doe not want to spend enough money to support public education in the province.

And the Toronto municipality which houses many immigrant children is being denied a fair cake of the education budget.

We are at a critical moment, and we need concerned parents in Ontario to join forces with ETT to speak out to force the TDSB to reverse course on this issue.

Let’s express our concerns about hybrid learning to our elected representatives (school Board Trustees and Members of the Provincial Parliament). Let’s say NO to hybrid learning!

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The Ghanaian News May 2021 11

Culture of Silence or Culture of Noise?

By Edmund Agbeko, Toronto, ON

In recent weeks, I have heard and read about some people trying to insinuate that the culture of silence has returned or is returning to Ghana. The greatest argument they are making is that, when a Journalist or a supposed opponent makes a post or expresses a view and it is not pleasant, a supposed social media commentator will take the person to A few weeks ago, Mr. Sam Jonah – a former CEO of AngloGold Ashanti the cleaners.

– muddied the waters when he How can Journalists and others have suggested there was a semblance of the freedom to express themselves a return to the ‘culture of silence’ in on topical national issues and Ghana. In my opinion, this assertion alleged social media commentators sounded somewhat controversial cannot have the right to also express as it bore the semblance of themselves? Freedom of expression ‘doublethink.’ Doublethink in political does not exist for only Journalist alone. communications discourse means For some, claims of assumed attack ‘the ability to hold two completely dogs to descend on Journalists or other contradictory beliefs at the same time alleged opponents who expresses and believe they are true’. The issue dissenting views in itself is evidence at stake is whether Mr. Sam Jonah that there is rather a profound culture believed what he was saying, viewed of loud noise in Ghana or if you want against our recent political history. freedom of expression.

Ironically, Mr. Sam Jonah was never The claim that Ghana is returning to an ‘silenced’ – as he freely expressed alleged Culture of Silence is in my view his views regarding the economy and a loud exaggeration meant to achieve other political and social issues in a political effect. Some people want an interaction with members of the to be the only ones doing the talking. Rotary Club of Ghana. The question is, Any dissenting voice means ‘Culture how could someone claiming there is of Silence’. If one feels maligned or ‘culture of silence’ be freely expressing abused by anybody, be it an ‘attack’ himself on the same platform he claims on a Journalist or any other person does not exist? In fact, one political and there is harm or defamation, you analyst recently described the freedom take either civil or criminal action on Ghana’s airwaves and social media against the offender rather than throw as ‘verbal terrorism’. allegations of phantom culture of In his view, The President of the silence about.

Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-

Addo, says there is no culture of silence prevailing in the country under his administration, and there exists a vibrant media. According to President Akufo-Addo, “I find it ironic that the Presidency of a man who has been and continues to be the most vilified political figure of his generation can be accused of presiding over a ‘culture of silence’. There is no midnight knock on the door in Ghana for authors of dissenting views, nor will there be during my presidency.”

Arguably, the current media landscape is too vibrant for any individual or group of people to conclude that there is a culture of silence in Ghana.

Whereas formerly we had only the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, which provided radio and TV news at restricted times, currently there are more than 600 Commercial, rural and community radio stations spread across the country. Television stations have also witnessed steady growth to more than 200 across the country.

Media and culture of silence

Moreover, it is well-recognized that the Internet and new media have opened greater avenues for the current media industry. The massive spread of mobile phones, along with other portable devices and digital technologies, in Ghana is transforming patterns of media consumption and political communication and participation.

These new media are enabling an unprecedented increase in the number of young and old, rich and poor to interact with friends and duty-bearers.

The ‘culture of silence’ does not only connote fear of individuals to freely express their opinions; it significantly impedes the freedom and independence of media to investigate and publish credible news and information without fear of libel and security attacks.

Whether the media lack freedom and independence in the current dispensation to warrant the assertion that Ghana is receding to the culture of silence is debatable.

Honestly, the era when the military, police and revolutionary cadres beat up journalists and confiscated their equipment, and bombed media houses with human excreta, are no more. Experience has shown that any attempt by a government to introduced censorship or a culture of silence often starts with attacks on the media, which is the fourth estate of the realm.

Is that the case currently in Ghana?

Are the media censored in Ghana?

Do journalists operate under fear and trepidation? Your answers are as good a mine.

The debate So, is the ‘culture of silence’ real – as Sam Jonah and others would like Ghanaians to believe? The politicians may be trying to score their points, but evidence does not support the assertion that there is a culture of silence in Ghana. As indicated earlier, if Mr. Jonah could speak his mind in the manner he did and walk away free, there can’t be a culture of silence. Of course, in a democratic dispensation people have the right of response to whatever we say; and that should not be labelled as a culture of silence.

Canada Cell: 416-825-5885 USA Cell 1-917-306-0073Tel: 1-914-652-7191 Ghana Cell: +233244-672052 Tel: +233332195630 Web: www.saharaherbals.com Email: atosahara@yahoo.com

In a country wherein Lawyer and Citizen vigilante Mr. Martin Amidu can publish several epistles which criticise government policy, there can’t be culture of silence. Let’s be reminded that under the current democratic arrangement, no one has a monopoly over what constitutes ‘truth’. The fact that the criminal libel law has been repealed and the Freedom of Information Law has been passed buttress my point that the culture of silence in its literal form does not exist in Ghana. These legislative interventions were meant to enable the media to be more critical in demanding transparency and accountability from duty-bearers. Nonetheless, the laws of defamation are still active; so, if you make any false allegations against anyone, you can be sued for defamation.

Media landscape

While it is true that social media spaces such as Twitter and Facebook have become platforms for the exchange of information and debates, the question may be whether such debates lead to consensus or rather amplify our differences. That said, it is argued that real democracy manifests in individuals’ ability and competence to engage with one another. However, the bottom line is not whether citizens are discussing issues or not; what concern us is what is being said and how.

We live in a country where people can create ‘fake websites’ to circulate ‘fake news’ about political and business opponents without fear. How can such people now claim there is culture of silence?

With Twitter having described Ghana as “a supporter of free speech, online freedom, and the Open Internet”, as some of the reasons for setting up shop in Ghana, the President noted that these same qualities possessed by Ghana also influenced the decision by the Federation of African Journalists to announce the holding of its annual conference in Ghana, because of the country’s attachment to a culture and practice of free media.

Speaking at the University of Cape Coast, on Saturday, 29th May 2021, at a ceremony held to confer an honorary doctorate degree on him, President Akufo-Addo noted that he has, all his life, been a firm believer in constitutional government. This, he explained, has been based on freedom of association, freedom of speech, freedom of the media, the separation of powers with an independent Judiciary, the rule of law, a strong and dynamic Parliament, and a private sector that unleashes the energies of the people to prosper.

What, President Akufo-Addo believes, may be lacking sorely in the Ghanaian society today, is the need to listen to each other more, emphasising that “knowledge has never been a gift granted exclusively to one group. We must listen, and hear each other more.”

12

The Ghanaian News May 2021

Cinema operators in Ghana to heave a sigh of relief over lift of ban on cinemas

BY Joyceline Natally Cudjoe, Accra, GH

After a year Ghana’s movie industry was hit heavily by the imposition of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions, the industry and its stakeholders will soon heave a sigh of relief following the government’s announcement to open cinemas of the country.

The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in his 25th televised address to the nation on measures taken by the government to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 disclosed that the Ghana Health Service (GHS), and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), were working to announce the modalities for the re-opening of cinemas.

He said the protocols were critical to ensuring the safety of patrons and all involved in the industry.

President Akufo-Addo stated that the operators of cinemas would have to comply fully with the agreed modalities and protocols before the industry would be reopened.

“In a move towards the reopening of cinemas and theatres, the government has engaged cinema owners and operators on a set of protocols and guidelines that need to be put in place and implemented by all operators before the eventual re-opening. In the coming weeks, the GHS and the Ghana Tourism Authority will be announcing these protocols and mandatory

By Kweku Asante, Accra, GH

An Accra High Court has ordered Achimota School to admit two Rastafarian students it denied admission over their refusal to cut their dreadlocks.

The Human Rights Division of the High Court presided over Justice Gifty Agyei Addo ruled that the fundamental human rights of two students cannot be limited by the rules in question.

modalities, and work with the operators on a set of directives that will ensure the health and safety of all patrons and staff in all the facilities involved, ” he said.

Tyron Iras Marhguy and Oheneba Kwaku Nkrabea sued the school’s Board of Governors, the Minister of Education, Ghana Education Service and the Attorney General to enforce their fundamental Human Rights.

President Akufo-Addo assured filmmakers that their call on the government to consider reopening cinemas in the wake of the COVID19-induced restrictions, was under consideration.

During the media launch of the Presidential Film Pitch Series in Accra on Wednesday, April 28, 2021, President AkufoAddo promised filmmakers that they would soon hear from the COVID-19 taskforce on means of opening the cinemas.

Achimota School ordered to admit Rastafarian students

Jackie Appiah, Artress

Gyasi on October 28, 2020, they explained that the move would enable the film industry to “kickstart its process of recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic in line with many “I want to proclaim on a other sectors.” matter of great concern, that the opening of cinemas is According to them, a similar under constant review by the plea was made to the Ministry COVID-19 taskforce. And on August 4, 2020, but did not hopefully, you’ll hear from the receive any response. taskforce soon,” he said.

They also stated in the letter ‘Open the cinemas’ campaign that they have “carefully evaluated the potential spread In October 2020, the National of the virus at our cinemas” Film Authority – Action and a risk assessment done Group (NFA-AG), a pressure showed that such facilities group largely made up of were safe for reopening. movie industry stakeholder associations and guilds, The group proposed an called on the government to online booking system that immediately take action to would allow the cinemas and lift restrictions on cinemas in filmmakers to easily track Ghana. and trace their customers, taking into consideration Presenting the petition to the measures outlined by the Presidency through the then cinema operators and Minister of Tourism, Arts the data submitted to the and Culture, Barbara Oteng Ghana Tourism Board for consideration.

The applicants asked the court to “declare that the failure and or refusal of the 1st Respondent (Achimota School Board of Governors) to admit or enroll the Applicant on the basis of his Rastafarian religious inclination, beliefs and culture characterized by his keeping of Rasta is a violation of his fundamental human rights and freedoms guaranteed under the 1992 constitution particularly Articles 12(1), 23, 21(1)(b)(c)”.

The two students also wanted “an order directed at [Achimota School] to immediately admit or enrol the applicant to continue with his education unhindered.”

The applicants also sought compensation for the “inconvenience, embarrassment, waste of time, and violation of his fundamental human rights and freedoms”.

Over two months ago, Achimota School refused to admit two students with dreadlocks Tyron Iras Marhguy and Oheneba Kwaku Nkrabea due to their refusal to cut their dreadlocks.

The two students were posted to Achimota School by the Computerised School Placement System but the school authorities claimed it is against the rules of the school to admit students with dreadlocks.

The school came under intense criticism over this decision with some describing the decision as backward. The Ghana National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) supported the decision of the school.

The Ghana Education Service (GES) subsequently ordered Achimota School to admit the students but later made a U-turn on its stance.

In the heat of the social media debate, Tyron Marhguy went to seek admission at his second choice of school, Saint John’s Grammar but was again refused admission because of his dreadlocks.

The dreams of the two Rastafarian students to attend Achimota School lies in the hands of Justice Gifty Agyei Addo who will deliver her judgment.

However, journalists have been ejected from the courtroom.

Joy FM

Gomoa Akyempim Omanhen facing distoolment charges from his kingmakers Traditional leadership has played and will always play a significant role in the development of communities and people in Ghana.

Nevertheless, there has never been a surer way to spark a heated discussion than to raise the issue of Chieftancy challenges and the role of Chieftain in the country before and after independence.

Before Ghana’s independence, the British smartly used chiefs as custodians of the land to practise their indirect colonial rule. After independence, the State took a lot of power from them and Kwame Nkrumah, the first President changed the narrative rather harshly to the chagrin of many traditional

people. and water bodies selfishly in our collective interest.

Today, as much as the relevance of traditional leadership is Recently, the revered King of unquestionable, the character, Asante, His Majesty Osei Tutu attitude and conduct of many II bemoaned the involvement chiefs and queen mothers have of chiefs in the galamsey brought the aged institution challenge facing the nation. of Chieftancy to disrepute in Many young people, the most many traditional areas causing popular of them on social young people to now speak media, Twene Jonas, thereafter anyhow about and to chiefs who exhaled the frustrations were once revered and adored. of younger generations to the annoyance of some Of course, it is not untrue that conservatives who adore what some chiefs were beneficiaries they consider respect for the of the slave trade and the aged no matter what they did. atrocities that the slave masters and colonialists But, should kingmakers, visited on our ancestors. It is communities and people also true that, today, many allow their chiefs and queen chiefs are involved in the sale mothers to rule at their of lands to galamsey operators collective expense? Should who are destroying our land leaders

and

their

they give them blank cheques to trade their collective destinies without question?

It is obvious the answer to from the Elders and Kingmakers of Gomoa Akyempim Traditional Area is “Hell No!” They have raised serious charges against their Omanhen, Obirifo Ahunakor Ahor Ankobea II and demanding that he be distoooled immediately.

On Wednesday, 26 May at Apam, Obaatanpa Ama Eduwa I, Paramount Queenmother of the about 152 - community Gomoa Akyempim Traditional Area and various elders and kingmakers including the prominent chiefs of Apam,

Gomoa Ojobi among others called on the Traditional Council to distool him for going against their customs and for engaging in activities which, are inimical to the development of their people.

Earlier, they had sent a petition outlining various charges against the Omanhen and requesting his appearance before the Gomoa Akyempim Traditional Council to respond to them which, he declined requesting them to take their petition to the Central Regional House of Chiefs or to court.

As the traditional area boils, many young people are rising to cont’d on pg. 35

The Ghanaian News May 2021 13

Poor policies, not drivers, are to blame for Ghana’s road transport miseries

SIKAMAN-JOHNSON ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICE

By Festival Godwin Boateng - The Conversation Authorities in Ghana frequently blame drivers for the country’s road transport problems and poor safety record. For instance, in parliament recently, the country’s Roads and Highways Minister cited driver indiscipline as the cause of accidents. His predecessor made similar claims , as have presidential committees , parliamentarians ; former presidents and the National Roads Safety Authority .

is heavily linked to unemployment and lack of labor protections in the commercial passenger transport sector.

These claims often end up forming the basis of public policy. For instance, based on a presidential committee report claiming that: “Indiscipline is the main contributory factor to the increasing incidents of road traffic crashes” in Ghana, the government approved a colossal 1 billion Ghana Cedis ($175 million) to tackle driving behaviour through road surveillance, sensitisation and public education.

These two problems create room for car owners to exploit the many young people who seek employment in the commercial passenger transport sector as drivers. The result is the drivers sign onto exploitative contracts with vehicle owners, which they fulfil by being hyper-competitive, aggressive and reckless on the roads.

The Ghanaian authorities have good cause to be concerned. Today, road trauma is among the top 10 causes of deaths in Ghana. One report suggests that about $230 million is spent annually on emergency and trauma care from motor accidents alone.

And it’s true that driver factors such as recklessness, unruliness, indiscretion, inattentiveness and poor judgement are important for understanding road transport problems. But there is more to it. A deeper understanding of Ghanaian drivers’ roles in road transport miseries lies in the policy choices that shaped the country’s transport sector into its present form.

My study of measures to deal with road accidents in Ghana suggests that blaming drivers deflects attention from inappropriate policies. Identifying the wrong cause of the problem means that it can’t be fixed comprehensively.

Road transport problems in Ghana Successive governments in Ghana have failed to invest meaningfully in rail and public bus transport and other infrastructure (such as bicycle lanes).

One study shows, for instance, that rail has only a total of 1,300 km and only 46% of the lines were operational in 2007. The government has recently made revamping Ghana’s railway network a priority though .

The lack of other means of transport in the country has forced the majority of Ghanaians to rely on imported cars, either as owners or as passengers. One recent study suggests that the vehicle/ population ratio in Ghana has been growing steadily and was about 70 vehicles per 1,000 population in 2015.

The problem is that these cars are usually old and, therefore, prone to malfunctioning and crashes.

This is even more so for commercial passenger vehicles, which are also often operated recklessly – a problem which

The point here is that the rates of youth unemployment (12%) and underemployment (50%) are dangerously high in Ghana. There are also limited labor rights protections in the commercial passenger transport sector.

The retention of the imperial town planning laws that separate home from work is another problem. This land-use pattern and system of town planning is problematic as it compels more travelling and traffic to the cities where businesses, jobs, services and trade are concentrated. The result is heavy traffic congestion – “go slow”, as it’s known – which, in places like Accra, could hold drivers and passengers on the road for as long as 3-4 hours to travel a few kilometres.

By delaying drivers for extended periods, gridlocks cause fatigue and thus undermine safety. Commercial passenger drivers held up in traffic for long periods are likely to drive more aggressively or dangerously to make up for lost time or potential revenue.

This is all the more likely given that car owners often impose hefty daily returns on them.

A recent study has confirmed that traffic congestion contributes to over speeding in Ghana. One driver confirmed this as follows: Driving from Accra to Kumasi should take about 4 hours but because of the traffic you can be on the road for 6 hours. … You can be in traffic alone for three hours and when you finally move through you want to speed to cover the time you spent in the traffic especially when the road is “good”.

This may partly explain the occurrence of more road injuries and deaths on the “best” of Ghana’s roads – the highways .

As the evidence considered shows, Ghanaian authorities’ insistence on bad driver attitudes as the main cause of road transport problems in the country hides more than it reveals. It fails to take into adequate account the broader context of the problems.

Towards safe and sustainable road transport in Ghana cont’d on pg. 14

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The Ghanaian News May 2021

IMMIGRATION AND SOCIAL ISSUES By: James A. Kwaateng, B.A. (Hons), LLB (Hons)

Revisiting Impact of Criminality on Immigration and Citizenship Applications This issue is being revisited because of the general increase in people’s involvement in criminality and the resultant negative impact on their immigration and citizenship applications. Persons who submit applications to Citizenship and Immigration Canada – be it an application for citizenship, permanent residence, visitor visa, student permit, work permit or to seek refuge - must be aware that their criminal history could be a principal determinant of the success of their applications.

Generally, a person with a criminal conviction or a very bad criminal record will not be admitted into Canada, not even as a visitor. However, if a prescribed period has passed after the person has completed his sentence or committed the offence and the person was not convicted of a subsequent offence during that time, they may be deemed to have been rehabilitated.

If you were convicted of, or committed, a criminal offence outside Canada, you may be presumed rehabilitated if 10 years have passed after completing the sentence imposed upon you or after committing the offence, if the offence is one that would, in Canada, be an indictable offence punishable by a maximum term of imprisonment of less than 10 years. If the offence is one that would, in Canada, be prosecuted summarily and if you were convicted of two or more such offences, then that period is 5 years after the sentence imposed was served or was to be served.

Almost the same conditions apply to offences committed in Canada. Don’t overlook the fact that the emphasis is not only on conviction, but also on commission, of an offence.

outside Canada if a period of five years or more has elapsed since the sponsor’s completion of the sentence imposed and the sponsor has demonstrated that he or she has been rehabilitated, or if a pardon has been granted and has not ceased to have effect or has not been revoked.

Immigration Regulation 133(1) outlines eligibility requirements of a person who intends to sponsor a person to Canada. Among other things, the sponsor should not be subject to a removal order and should not be detained in any penitentiary, jail, reformatory or prison. From the day on which the sponsorship application was filed up to the day a decision is rendered on the application, there should be no evidence that the sponsor has been convicted under the criminal code of; an offence of a sexual nature, or an attempt or a threat to commit such an offence, against any person or has been convicted of an indictable offence involving the use of violence and punishable by a maximum term of imprisonment of at least 10 years, or has been convicted of an offence that results in bodily harm as defined in section 2 of the Criminal Code or has made an attempt or threatened to commit such an offence against any family member.

Immigration Regulation 133(2) however indicates that a sponsorship application may not be refused on the basis of a conviction in Canada or

Poor policies, not drivers, are to blame for Ghana’s road transport miseries cont’d from pg. 13

passenger transport sector.

Scapegoating drivers allows authorities to turn public and media outrage against drivers and avoid responsibility for fixing these problems with better approaches.

• Re-imagining town planning to make work and shopping as close to homes as possible.

Offending drivers are subject to hefty fines and prison sentences and sometimes personal harm . But as I have shown elsewhere , such interventions can do only so much.

The current scientific foundation of road safety research and practice shows that creative thinking and policy re-imagining beyond the traditional focus on road users, vehicles and and the road environment could be more effective to make roads safer.

In Ghana, such thinking could include: • Providing well-organised public transport.

• Addressing youth unemployment and labor exploitation (especially driver exploitation) in the commercial

• Investing in non-motorised transport systems (like bicycle lanes and walkways) to reduce reliance on cars.

These interventions and others, at a wider societal level, would do more to improve road transport experience than the present public policy of declaring “wars” on so-called undisciplined drivers.

Festival Godwin Boateng does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

By Festival Godwin Boateng, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Centre for Sustainable Urban Development, The Earth Institute, Columbia University

A permanent resident with a bad criminal record is likely to be ineligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.

Persons who have been convicted of an indictable offence in Canada or an offence under the Citizenship Act in the four years immediately preceding the application or who have been convicted outside Canada of an offence that is determined to be equivalent to an indictable offence in Canada are prohibited from applying for Canadian citizenship.

Applicants on parole or on probation or serving a term of imprisonment in Canada or outside Canada are ineligible to apply for citizenship. Persons charged with, on trial for, or involved in an appeal for an offence under the Citizenship Act, or an indictable offence in or outside Canada are also

ineligible to apply for citizenship. Also on the list of exclusion are persons being investigated for, charged with, on trial for, or involved in an appeal for or have been convicted of, a war crime or a crime against humanity.

Persons who have been convicted of terrorism, high treason, treason, or spying offences while they were permanent residents or those who have served as members of an armed force of a country or organized armed group and that country or group engaged in armed conflict with Canada while they were permanent residents are barred from applying for citizenship.

Criminality in Immigration and citizenship context is a complex area. Seek professional advice if you reasonably believe criminality could be an issue in your application.

James A. Kwaateng is an Immigration Law practitioner with offices located at 168A Oakdale Road, Suite 4, Toronto, Ontario. For thorough discussion of your immigration and related social and legal issues, contact him at telephone number (416) 743-2758 for an appointment.

AstraZeneca recipients in Ontario may get 2nd shot of same vaccine, Pfizer or Moderna

Ontario says people who have received the first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine will have three options for their second dose starting on Friday.

Under the province’s new guidance released this morning, AstraZeneca recipients can have the second dose of the same vaccine or receive a dose of Pfizer or Moderna.

These second dose options will be provided at the recommended 12-week interval.

The Ministry of Health says AstraZeneca recipients who would like their second dose of that vaccine can book an appointment with the pharmacy or primary care provider that administered the first shot.

It says AstraZeneca recipients who are opting for a Moderna or Pfizer shot can book an appointment for their second shot at a participating pharmacy where those vaccines are administered.

Ontario’s top doctor says it’s critical that people who received the AstraZeneca vaccine for their first dose receive a second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

The Canadian Press.

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The Ghanaian News May 2021 15

African Development Bank Group supports risk-based supervision for capital markets The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Ghana on June 3, 2021 launched a $400,000 project to strengthen the development of Ghanaian capital markets. This follows the signing of a grant agreement to develop a risk-based supervisory solution for the local capital market.

The grant, from the African Development Bank’s Capital

Markets Development Trust Fund (https://bit.ly/3g54brx), will finance the provision of technical assistance and capacity building for the SEC, the markets regulator, and the Ghana Stock Exchange.

and streamlining of policy and regulatory frameworks for pooled funds, and support the broadening of market instruments through the introduction of products such as asset-backed securities.

The project will enhance the SEC’s institutional capacity and readiness to transition from a compliance-based to a riskbased supervision approach for the securities market. It will also enable the development

At the launch event, Daniel Ogbarmey Tetteh, DirectorGeneral of the SEC, commended the African Development Bank for supporting the development of a risk-based solution, which is expected to bolster the

Commission’s capacity to fulfill its mandate.

The objectives of the project align with the priorities of the Bank’s Country Strategy for Ghana, which envisages measures to stimulate capital market development and unlock financial resources that will advance Ghana’s industrialization, the private sector and infrastructure development.

“The collaboration with the

Securities and Exchange Commission to promote an enabling regulatory and supervisory environment with diversified financial market products and instruments is timely. This support demonstrates the Bank’s desire for a deepened and broadened financial system – a driver of investment and economic growth in Ghana,” said Ahmed Attout, Manager of the Bank’s Capital Markets Development Division.

The project will benefit capital market participants in Ghana, including securities issuers and investors. It will also help broaden available products and structures for savings and investment.

Mr. Ekow Afedzie, Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange, expressed his appreciation to the Bank and noted that this project has come at an opportune time when the stock market is introducing new products to deepen the market and improve liquidity. “Thus, the introduction of the new products will boost investor confidence and achieve the ultimate goal of making the Ghana Stock Exchange a preferred investment destination in the sub-region,” Mr Afedzie said.

The Securities and Exchange Commission will cooperate closely with the Ghana Stock Exchange and other market stakeholders to implement the project.

APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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The Ghanaian News May 2021

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The Ghanaian News May 2021 19

“Why Do You Lie?” “CAN MAN OF G-D LIE?” “No nation, no human being can stand for long on a foundation of untruth and lies.” Pat Robertson.

From: Stephen A.Quaye, Toronto-Canada.

A colleague journalist in Ghana has told me, “Comrade, I have stopped interviewing self-acclaimed men of G-d because of something which is eating into Ghanaian moral fabric.”

He revealed this to me just last week when I tried to team up with him to do an exclusive story to inform and educate people about moral decadence and the need for people to avoid it in order not to be punished.

I wanted him to collect information from one of my key sources through interview and he declined stating, “You can never change the lying tongue of some of these self-acclaimed pastors, bishops, prophets, seers and apostles.

“But you can change how you feel and react to them. Once you learn to change your emotions about their situations, you begin to see a lot more options. If you are honest with a situation you will realize that your happiness Clergy is always more important than their behavior anyways. I have been advising against these self-acclaimed men of G-d and would like to share with you too” he explained his position on the phone.

IS LYING CRIMINAL IN CANADA? OMG! Some government officials, traditional leaders, teachers, lawyers, Here I am studying the documents to find out whether the self-acclaimed man parliamentarians, doctors, officers and men in uniform are lying. Some of G-d lied in anyway in disinformation and if so is it criminal in Canada to politicians and some journalists are lying so some pastors are now telling lie and what punishment would have been handed him. pathological lies everywhere, my friend added.

As clearly defined by Toronto Defense Lawyers on their website, it is a crime No wonder when former president of the United States of America [U.S.A] Mr. in Canada to lie to the police and/or the court “[sic.] To a congregation”. It Donald Trump was called out for lying about the threat of the coronavirus, went on to say that if someone is caught misleading or lying to the police or he got testy on that day when the journalist asked him that question. the Court or” [sic] to a congregation”, it may result in them being charged with a criminal offence.

An ABC News White House correspondent Jonathan Karl, asked the often fact challenged former president a direct question about a disconnection.

Like former president Donald Trump, OMG! Telling lies through his teeth, who the paper tray leads to?

“Why did you lie to the American people? And why should we trust what you have to say now?” Karl asked. The former president immediately tore “ONE DOUBLE DOUBLE, TOO TROUBLE TROUBLE.” into Karl, “That’s a terrible question and the phraseology,” Trump replied. ………………….STAY TUNED FOR NEXT EDITION EEEEE BOBO Jonathan Karl’s question did not please Trump, but many social media BA!!!!........................ bloggers and users said they appreciated it as there were proof that the former president lied and people died.

WHAT IS A LIE? Wikipedia define a lie as an assertion that is believed to be false, typically used with a purpose of deceiving someone, government or organization where the practice of communicating lies is termed lying, and the person who spread it is a liar.

Reports from findings of research has it that lies may serve a variety of instrumental, interpersonal, or psychological functions for the individuals who use them. Generally, the term “lie” carries a negative connotation, and depending on the context a person who communicates a lie may be subject to social, legal, religious, or criminal sanctions.

The book of life [Holy Bible] defines lying as to practice deceit, falsehood, and treachery either by word or action. Explaining, it is the exact opposite of the truth, as the sanctity of truth is fundamental in biblical teaching since it is based on the nature and character of God. Reference: Numbers 23:19, 1 Samuel 15:29, Romans 3:4, Titus 1:2, and Hebrews 6:18. Therefore, to despise truth is to despise God, and the scriptures treat this topic with profound seriousness.

TYPES OF LIES It would surprise readers to know that further findings from research has established 32 different statements and acts as forms of lies which are big lie, black lie, blue lie, bluff, bullshit, cover up, defamation, exaggeration and fake news.

House for Sale in Ghana Large Property for Sale Prampram Completed up to roofing level.

10 minutes’ drive to the sea side Just About 45 minutes’ drive from Accra 6 Bedrooms (with 2 in the Artic), all rooms self-contained 2 Living rooms, 1 LargeKitchen, 1 Dining area, Storage Area and Powder room.

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Other lies include, fib, fraud, gray lie, half-truth, honest lie, jocose lies , lie to children, lying by commission, lying in trade, memory hole, minimization, mutual deceit and noble lies.

The rest are pathological lie, perjury, polite lie, puffery, red lie, forked tongue, and weasel word, and white lie, barefaced, bald-faced or boldfaced lies.

CAN MAN OF G-D LIE? Take it easy! I could feel your tongue wagging “wragum wragum” to mention names of some self-acclaimed men of G-d, whose lies are causing loss of lives and damage to properties reported by Ghanaian Media every day.

Personally, I know one of them who can lie through his teeth and won’t be apprehended. OMG! That person can lie and if you are sitting on 10,000 dollars you will hand it over to him just like that.

The self-acclaimed man of G-d [whose identity I am keeping for security reasons and studying his documents], swore to his congregation of doing one honest thing, but ended up doing the wrong thing that has made some of his members to describe him as a “pathological liar?”

Please contact: WhatsUp #: (233) 55-398-4455 In Canada: 204-951-8044

20

The Ghanaian News May 2021

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The Ghanaian News May 2021 21

CLASSIFIED Classic Videos/Photos * Weddings *Birthdays *Christenings *Portraits

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22

The Ghanaian News May 2021

African Caribbean Groceries Inc 63 Dundas West, Mississauga, Ont

Tel: 905-281-9515 Business Hours

Monday - Wednesday - 10:00am - 8:00pm Thursday - Friday - 10:00am - 9:00pm Saturday - 9:30am - 6:30pm Sunday - 12:30pm - 5:30pm

63 Dundas West of Hurontario

Kaf African Caribbean Market

PROMOTING

Tel: 905-855-3595

TALK CALL GHANAIAN

LOCATION:

NEWS

2642 Liruma Rd, #2A, Mississauga, Ont., 401 or 403 to South on Erin Mills Pkwy,

416-916-3700

New Kantamanto Market WHOLESALE AND RETAIL MOVED TO A NEW LOCATION Opposite CEEKTEX Specializing In African and Caribbean Food & Hair Products

Open 7 Days A Week * Amane * Palm Oil * Atadwe * Adwene * Zomi Oil *Werewere * Fufu * Fish * Momone * Alata Samina * Rice * Fresh Yam * Nkuto * Garden Eggs * Goat Meat * Apem * Koobi * Shito * Kenkey * Geisha * Kpako * Gari * Kokonte * Asanka

Twins Sister Tel: 416-235-1470 Cell: 647-448-3241

Tel: 416-745-5928

Email. new.kantamantomarket@gmail.com

5010 Steeles Ave. W., Unit 2B, Etobicoke (Steeles/Kipling)

266 Eddystone Ave, North York, Ont. M3N 1H7

Xpress Tropical Foods & Meat

UNCLE SETH TROPICAL FOODS Specializing in African, Caribbean, Asian & Canadian Foods

African and Caribbean Grocery Store

*WHITE RICE

*ACCRA KENKEY WHITE CORN MEAL

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Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Mon-Sat. 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sun.

For All Your Family Grocery Needs

BUSINESS.

MONEY TRANSFER THROUGH MONEYGRAM

We Carry All Your Tropical Grocery Items

We are open 7 Days a week.

Sundays from 12 noon to 6:00 pm

IS OUR

We are wholesalers and distributors of smoke fish

Exit West on Dundas, 2nd light left Liruma Road, Behind Mr. Lube

* Fresh Ghana Yam (Pona) * Palm Oil * Titus Sardine * Exeter Corned Beef * Accra Kenkey * Akwaabi * Fresh Garden Eggs * Red Snapper And much more at discount prices

BUSINESS

We specialize in African, Caribbean Groceries: *Gari Pounded *Yam *Vegetable Salad *Fufu *Potato Starch *Stock Fish *Salted Fish *Smoked Fish *Cerelac *Rice *Bournvita *Milo *Corned Beef *Phone Cards *Cosmetics *Goat meat and many more

Mississauga, Ontario

Central Market

YOUR

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OUR BEAUTY AND HAIR PRODUCTS One of the Largest Selection

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2069 Lawrence Ave. E. Scarborough, Ont.

We are open Monday - Friday: 9 am to 8 pm Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.

Tel: 416-249-7007 1712 Jane Street, Toronto (Jane/Lawrence)

The Ghanaian News May 2021 23

M A K O L A Tropical Foods THE SUPERMARKET IN THE HEART OF ACCRA-GHANA IS NOW HERE IN THE HEART OF TORONTO BEST PRICES IN TOWN

QUALITY FOODS

fresh yam * plantain * cocoyam * adwene* koobi * abodoi * egusi * gari * konkonte * goat meat * fufu * kenkey * snails * herrings *sugar bread etc. etc.

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Quality Zome * Yams (Pona) * Gari * Konkonte * Goat Meat * Adwene * Maggi Cubes * Prekese Tel:

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Email: ben@the-wire.com

1148 Albion Road. Etobicoke, Ont. (at Islington)

Mercies African Supermarket We Specialize in African Caribbean Groceries & much more...

* Red Snapper * Adwene * Mackerel * Goat Meat * Palm Oil * Creams & Lotions * Egusi * Braids Open 7 Days * Fresh Ghana Yams * Gels * King Fish Steak A Week Business Hours Monday - WEDNESDAY - 10 am - 8:00 pm THURSDAY - SATURDAY - 10 Am - 8:30 pm SUNDAYS - 12:30 PM - 5 PM

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Call Us First The Ghanaian News

* African Yam * Chicken * Box of Mackerel * Burnt Goat * Red Mullet * Ram Goat Meat * Carnation Milk * Black Soap

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Cosmetics

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Tel: 416-286-0516

24

The Ghanaian News May 2021

New African King Meat Shop Under New Management

Lowest Price Guaranteed Specializing in African, Caribbean and Asian Wholesale deal on Yam, Gari, Kokonte and more • • • • •

Burnt Goat Fresh Goat Ox Tail Cow Tripe Smoke Fish

• • • • • •

Ghana Yam Maggi Seasoning cubes Trofai Palm Cream, Palmnut Cream, Ghana Fresh Palm Oil and Coconut Oil Veggies

Business Hours Monday to Friday 10 am - 8:30 pm Saturdays 9 am to 8 pm Sundays 2 pm - 6 pm

Consumer Hotline: 647-344-0988 2223 Jane Street (opposite Chalkfarm) Toronto

GOLDEN GATES RESTAURANT Best African Cuisine * Dine in - Take out Catering

10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. - Monday to Sunday

Tel: 416-745-1394 2428 Islington Ave., Unit 104 Toronto Ontario, M9W 3X8

Afro Continental Bar & Grill We Serve All Kinds Of African Continental Dishes * Fried Yam with Tilapia or Red Snapper * Fried Plantain with Beans * Waakye (Rice & Beans) with Assorted meat * Banku with Okro or Peanut Soup * Dieho (TZ) * Konkonte * Jollof Rice * Fufu with Peanut Soup or Light Soup

BUSINESS HOURS MONDAY TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

- - - - - - -

CLOSED 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PM 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PM 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PM 11:00 PM TO 10:00 PM 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PM 12:00 PM TO 9:00 PM

Call Kwame or Adwoa @ 416-519-6740 849 Albion Road (Albion/Islington)

The Ghanaian News May 2021 25

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The Ghanaian News May 2021

A Product of GHANA

Available at most African-Canadian Grocery Stores.

For Wholesale Distributions call 416-749-1542 In Ghana call 0244-376-747 / 0244-176-206

The Ghanaian News May 2021 27

ROSHABET GUEST HOUSE (Bretuo Ba House) ASSIN FOSO Near Immigration Academy, Dompim Road On your next visit to the Assin District in the Central Region, Ghana Stay at the Cozy

ROSHABET GUEST HOUSE One hour drive to Cape Coast & Elmina 90 minutes drive to Kakum Forest Tourist Site

Tel: (233) 54 305 6581 (233)50 408 1356 (233) 54 034 0463

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Original Yamoransah kenkey We cater: Fanti Kenkey, white Kenkey, accra Kenkey, Banku, fried Fish, shito etc.

Wholesale and Retail purchases. Call:647-718-2120 and 905-956-2771

28

The Ghanaian News May 2021

Immigrating, Settling and Intergrating into Canadian Society through a Unified Voice Dr. Ama DeGraft Johnson a retired Medical Doctor was one of the speakers at the just launched Ghana Union of Canada.

countries in the world. It’s estimated population of about 40 million, is almost the same as Ghana’s population and Ghana is nowhere near the size of Canada.

Below is her full speech:

3) Canada’s economy ranks 10th in the world and its booming

Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. It’s an honour and privilege to be participating in this forum among some very distinguished guests.

4) It has good education system K-12 as well as

Today, I am going to talk briefly about Immigration.

I will be focusing my attention on why we immigrate and why we choose Canada and some of the experiences we encounter using my story as an example. I am sure most of you share similar experiences.

I would like to thank the organization of Ghana Union of Canada for inviting me.

After listening to Sarah’s passionate address, it will be a shame for us to sit idly by. Let us all come on board and make GUC a great and impactful force for the 21st century for all the Ghanaian communities across Canada.

5) Some of the best universities in the world which are affordable but not for many immigrants.

6) There is Universal health care system but there may be issues around access for some people.

7) Canada has great social assistance programs but unfortunately this has been abused by many immigrants.

8) There are lots of business opportunities for entrepreneurs.

9) Overall crime rate is low.

10) However, the winters can be harsh and severe, I came in October 1973 not expecting the weather to be cold as it was, I was under dressed and unprepared for Dr. Ama DeGraft Johnson the way the wind aggressively blew up my skirt. I was cold First, I would like to acknowledge the land that hosts us and pay tribute to its 11) Cost of living is expensive compared to Ghana. original owners- The first Nations, The Metis and the Innuits. Especially the territories of Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee.Their stewardship and protection 12) Flights back home can also be constraining of the land, water, and air for centuries have allowed us to make Canada our new home. We will be forever grateful to them.

13) You will encounter racism in many forms. Racism is not always overt. It’s often subtle. It can show up as micro-aggression which (Anishinaabe and the Haudenosaunee) can manifest in behaviors and assumptions that people will have about your capabilities, experience and intelligence.

According to Statistic Canada,there are 85,000 Ghanaians in Canada.More than 14) Systemic racism can be found ineducation ,Justice, childcare and 20,000 live in Toronto and Metropolitan area. The rest in Vancouver, Calgary, social services and sometimes in housing.

Ottawa, Hamilton, Montreal, Quebec City.

This is something you have to learn to navigate as a newcomer. I As part of a Study by Mensah and el, records also show that Ghanaians started wasn’t ready for it, but I had to learn real quick. arriving here in Canada in 1960.

In my experience, I came to Canada because my partner was already in Toronto In 1960,100 people immigratedfrom Ghana to Canada. These were Scholarship and I also wanted to further my education. He wanted to experience a new world students and professionals in education, health and social work. outside Ghana, and with a little encouragement from his cousin he chose Canada.

He arrived in the late sixties. I was already a Physician in Ghana.

The numbers began to increase and there were several hundreds of Ghanaians in the country by 1970. I don’t know if the 1970 Multiculturalism act by Pierre Before I arrived in Canada, I inquired from the CPSO ( College of Physician and Trudeau contributed to this.

Surgeons of Ontario) about the necessary requirements for working as a physician in Ontario. On their recommendation I wrote the ECFMG( Education Council for Our numbers continued to increase with the arrival of somePolitical dissidents Foreign Medical Graduates) exams in Ghana. This exam was offered twice a year in 1976 after the Canadian Govt incorporated the UN convention definition of in Ghana June and December by the Americans. Canadians did not have their own refugee into the Canada Immigration Act. exams till much later. it still took me two years after arriving in Canada to find a hospitalwhich will accept me to start my internship all over again. The reason Between 1980—1990 immigration rates from Ghana averaged about 345 per was that CPSO had a list of countries they considered as Commonwealth and had year. reciprocal agreement with them. If you came from one of these countries, your academic credentials were viewed more favourably. Ghana was not one of them.

We reached our Peakimmigrationin 1992 with 2,464 immigrants and since then As a result, I could not join the matching program even though I had passed the our numbers have declined. required exams.

Our immigration numbers are quite low compared to other countries, averaging at best about 1500 per year This among other questions is what the GUC hopes to address.

Why do we immigrate?

There are many reasons:

1) Politics - Political opponents and dissidents need a safe and hasslefree environment to speak their mind without the fear of persecution and sometimes death. Just imagine getting killed for disagreeing with someone,a political opponent. , or having a different opinion .This was very common during the Rawlings Regime,and to some extent even today.

2) Economics - We all need a secure environment where we can make a living, grow our families without unnecessary hardship. There are many people out of universities and colleges in Ghana without jobs or possibility of securing one very soon. This desperation sends people out the country.

3) Family Reunification -Moving to a different country and culture is not without its problems. It can be very,very,lonely.No one wants to be alone,so we try and encourage other family members to join us,under the Canadian Family reunification program. And anyone who has gone through the process knows how difficult this can be, because of our Immigration laws.

Canadianinstitutions and professional bodies do not accept degrees from most developing countries. You have to write countless exams or retrain. These exams are very costly and this makes it harder for skilled established professionals wanting to relocate.

It is estimated that it takes an average of 12yrs after immigration to achieve the same standard of living as your Canadians counterpart. I lost 4yrs coming to Canada by doing over the same things I had completed in Ghana.

After finishing my internship in 1976 I was not accepted into the Pediatric program.

That was my preferred specialty. I was denied the opportunity because they still questioned the validity of my medical education in Ghana. I was devastated.

Staying at home, waiting for some kind of a break to get back to work was not an option. I decided tolook at other specialties.The Dept of anesthesia, at McMaster University had vacancies. I applied and was accepted. I had two weeks to move from Toronto to Hamilton. I had a toddler. You can imagine my anxieties. I had nowhere to live. I moved into one of the Residency for the students on campus at McMaster University whilst we search for permanent accommodation.

My husband’s cousin agreed to babysit my toddler for the summer so I could concentrate on my studies. Eventually we found a place close to the University and moved in.

4) Wars, Deadly Ethnic conflicts and Natural disasters are among some of the reasons why someone might want to come to Canada.

During my entire 4 yrs(1976-1980 )of Residency at McMaster University Medical Center, there were only two Black female doctors, Dr Cheryl Marshall from Guyana In Internal Medicine and myself in Anesthesia. You have no idea the many racial slurs , comments and sexism we faced. Every time we fought back we were told we were too sensitive.One of my colleaguesoften said offensive things like, “we didn’t know we let people like you into this country, and when I confronted him, He ‘ll say its’ a joke. I knew better he meant it.

5) People also move because of religious persecution and discrimination due to their gender and sexual orientation (LGBTQ people).

Sexism and racism were rampant, however for me to succeed in my career, I had to face it head on.

SO why do we choose Canada:

After my residency in Anesthesia, I became a certified Anesthesiologist and a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians in Canada. I practiced at Hamilton Health Sciences Centre network which includes Hamilton General Hospital, Juravinski Hospital and McMaster Medical Centre. HGH was my base, and I was the only Black femaledoctor across the organization.I was also the only female in my dept working alongside 17 men. cont’d on pg. 35

1) Safety is a big concern, and Canada compared to other countries is relatively safe, inclusive and secure.Many people from all over the world thrive here without any problems and that includes Ghanaians.

2) Given the size of this country, Canada is one of the least populated

The Ghanaian News May 2021 29

30

The Ghanaian News May 2021

Ghanaian Women Prayer & Fasting Conference held virtually on Victoria’s Day 24th May 2021

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto, ON

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the Ghanaian Women Prayer & Fasting Conference to hold its first meeting of the year via zooms. The impact of the pandemic necessitated the conference to organize intensive intercessory prayers for the community, Canada and the world as a whole.

It was held on Monday May 24th, 2021 (Victoria Holiday in Canada).

The spirits of the women were not dampened as they converged online to intercede intensively for divine intervention. Mama Comfort Ayiku, who was the moderator, opened the program by reading Psalm 34:1-3 and dwelt on verse 3. She stated after welcoming all that it was exactly 19 years ago that the prayer and fasting conference was started and that it was imperative that they came together to praise God. Mrs. Jennifer Owusu was then called upon to lead the praise and worship segment. She then asked all to be grateful to the Lord and open their mouths to thank the Lord. She added that it was by God’s grace that we were all still alive. Mrs. Owusu used Psalms in the segment, specifically Psalm 104 verse 33. She reiterated that as she is still alive during this pandemic, she will with all her heart praise and worship the Lord and that the good Lord creates a clean heart within us all.

She urged the Holy Spirit to descend on the participants as it happened during Day of Pentecost with the Apostles and believers.

Picture of the women’s prayer Group at the 15th anniversary 2017 Mrs. Comfort Ayiku, as the moderator said categorically that the day was a day of prayer, a day of intensive intercessory prayer. She then invited Rev Eleanor Adu-Anane to lead the final segment of prayers. She started with a reading from 1st Timothy 2: 1-3 that we pray for all. She urged for prayers for our children, the youth that the lord extricate those that are drifting away from Satan. Also that they be endowed with wisdom for them to achieve greater laurels for our community especially those studying in schools, colleges and universities.

The subsequent prayers were for our community to succeed, good health and for those mourning to be comforted and consoled. Also marriages that are faltering during the pandemic to

stabilize be it monetary problems, misunderstanding or unemployment.

That the good Lord change things for the better. She continued that frontline and essential workers be protected and blessed because of the service God has called them to provide. Prayers were also offered for churches and pastors as the strain of the financial burdens of the closure churches were having an impact on them. Rev. Eleanor urged special prayers for congregants to be strengthened to be faithful to Him the Lord by revealing Himself to the believers. Also those who have backslidden during the pandemic to be renewed and strengthened.

Prayers were also offered for Canada, Ghana, USA, India and all leaders

Interview with Pastor Winnie Manu with her new business

By Emmanuel Ayiku, Toronto, ON

Pastor Winnie Manu is the General Overseer and Founder of Evangelistic Ministries in Brampton, Ontario. When COVID-19 arrived, like most of the churches, Evangelistic Ministries switched to online services. And like other churches, this has resulted in low attendant affecting the church’s finances. However, Pastor Winnie did not sit ideal as her ministry lost money. Instead, she started a home base business called Winnie’s Super Centre, producing Kenkey and Pastries.

“There are three types of Kenkey that we produce.

Accra Kenkey, Fanti Kemkey and White Kenkey (Nsiho). With that we do also Fry Fish, Shito to go with the Kenkey” said Pastor Winnie.

The Kenkey business started in November and is located at 30 Intermodal in Brampton. According to Pastor Winnie, the business currently supplies Rev. Mrs. Winnie Manu Kenkey to 14 stores. Pastor Winnie says she is also training staff to run the business so she can Pie, Vegi Pie, Sweet Buns, Chip chin, Sugar and focus on the church again.

Sugar-free chin and Cake.” Pastor Winnie said.

Since Church activities have slowed down, According to the pastor, lots of people have been income, donation, tithes have also slowed down, affected by the COVID 19 Pandemic; therefore, but expenses have not. “With this business, I’m she wants to bless the community by selling to able to survive, and I’m grateful to God for them at a special price. “I’m being creative in giving me this idea. In addition to the Kenkey, a different way, and in Stormy times, you don’t we do Pastries such as Bofrot, meat pie, Fish have to sit down and complain and grumble. “

of the world to use the fear of the Lord to govern to bring about peace, tranquility and stability. Pregnant mothers to deliver safely, those seeking children to have their wishes come to fruition, and the upsurge of murders to flatten in Ghana. Peace to prevail in our communities was uplifted to the Lord and finally the pandemic to be flattened for us to have our normal lives back.

Widows and widowers as well as orphans were also prayed for. Lastly the good Lord to make it possible for the next meeting in October to be in person meeting instead of zoom.

Apostle Dennis Awuku of Bethel Prayer ministry International offered the closing prayer.

PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS. SO LET’S TALK CALL GHANAIAN NEWS 416-916-3700

The Ghanaian News May 2021 31

In Canada call: 416-844-9161

32

The Ghanaian News May 2021

Exclusive Interview with Sarah Awuah a Founding Member of Ghana Union of Canada (GUC) By: Emmanuel Ayiku, Publisher of the Ghanaian News

Since the creation of the Ghana Union of Canada (GUC) the newly registered federal organization supposed to be the mouth piece of Ghanaian Canadians across Canada there have been some misunderstanding within the community of its integrity.

The Ghanaian News had a special interview with Sarah Awuah, one of the founding members of Ghana Union of Canada.

If anybody has any comment we’ll be ready to publish it.

Below is the interview:

2020 shortly after the 2nd evacuation exercise.

I provided him written documentation of the idea and consistently sought his feedback and involvement in advancing that idea between August - December 2020. His response was, “I’m overwhelmed with issues of Toronto, I cannot take on a national task”. Hence I reached out to other provinces to share the idea and gather support.

Ghanaian News (GN) Greetings Sarah, In the first place can you tell us a little bit abour yourself ?

Sarah Awuah: I am Economist & Certified Project Portfolio Management Professional; married to Mr. Gideon Awuah with 3 children – Kobby 18, Audrey-Ann 15, Adelina 7; lives in Ajax Ontario.

GN: What motivated you to create GUC and when?

Sarah Awuah: Here are only a few at the top of my head: i.

The non-existence of the voice that speaks to issues impacting Canada’s Ghanaian Community at the federal level in Canada.

ii.

inherent biases in immigration policies as it relates to Ghanaians either living in Canada or intents to migrate to Canada.

iii.

disparate access to settlement services open to new immigrant families/individuals from Ghana not because the Canadian Government discriminates against them rather due to unique dynamics of access to information and willingness to seeks settlement information in Ghanaian communities across Canada.

iv.

Level of integration of Ghanaians into Canada’s socio-economic and political landscape and how they share in the wealth, beauty and opportunities Canada has for its citizens. This is happening amidst an excellent intellectual capital of naturalised citizens & inability of Canadian-born of Ghanaian heritage to rub shoulders with their peers in the areas of employment, identity acceptance and capacity building.

v.

Ideology of I, Me and Myself syndrome, incompetence in the face of abundant resources, and sadly, indifference to the plight of fellow Ghanaians in Canada

GN: Our understanding is that you are the Secretary of the Ghanaian Canadian Association of Ontario (GCAO), you were privy to some information of GCAO and you used that to register GUC which they deem it as a conflict of interest.

Sarah Awuah: That assertion is a “Bold Lie, unethical and should not come from any GCAO executive”. Here are a few reasons: i.

Although I was elected as 2nd Secretary in GCAO, I was never and is currently not in possession of any artifact of that position.

A written communicate sent to GCAO executive and Chair of Board of Advisors to confirm the date, time and location of having preview to such information was not returned. I will greatly appreciate GCAO executives to public declare such.

ii.

I was neither part of the team that incorporated GCAO, nor did requested those that did so to train me on how to incorporate an organization in Canada, nor took the structure, bylaws, constitution.

iii.

GCAO is for Ghanaians in Greater Toronto Area and does not even speaks for entire province of Ontario because there are independent Ghanaian associations across Ontario that GCAO’s scope of activities, leadership, constitution does not applies to.

This not me (Sarah A saying it), but is the truth.

iv.

GUC’s scope of operation, mission, vision, etc is and will never be in conflict with GCAO in as much as both entities are seeking the common good of Ghanaians in Canada and in Toronto.

v.

Care has been taken to ensure GUC does not duplicate activities of any local Ghanaian association; and no association is currently undertaken any of the activities GUC has mandated to serve the Ghanaian community at the federal level.

GN: As an executive member of the GCAO why didn’t you try to effect a change within the GCAO but opted to form another organization?

Sarah Awuah: That’s a lie. The current president of GCAO (Mr. Emmanuel Duodu) is the first person I shared the idea with in July

There are emails, text messages, WhatsApp chats that were exchanges between him and I. Follow-up meeting with selected GCAO executive & board members in December 2020; January 2021meeting with GCAO executive team, involvement of Acting Head Missions of Ghana High Commission, involvement of other presidents of Ghanaian association in Calgary, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, Hamilton etc etc. in both audio & video exist and will be made available publicly in due time.

It’s an irony to hear the same person who said, I cannot champion and or be involved in the establishment of federal Ghana Union is now saying otherwise and also in the process of establishing a similar organization with same mission as GUC by consulting community groups one.

Impressive! Wouldn’t that energy be used towards the very idea that he boycott?

There is also the narrative that, I was a GCAO executive and left to start GUC. That is a bold Lie. I have and will not resigned from my role until a new GCAO executive is elected. Mr. Duodu, the president removed me from GCAO communication (WhatsApp, email etc), yet was ok to invite me to a Town Hall on May 23, 2021, a day to GUC’s inauguration for a smear, character assassination and sexist campaign against me; and urging segments of the Ghanaian communities to boycott GUC. GUC Strong!

GN: How are you going to sustain continuous support of association members across Canada?

Sarah Awuah: i. GUC will continue to reach out to the Ghanaian community from coast-to-coast for support and active involvement. ii. GUC has the support of Canada Federal Government in its establishment and continual existence much as it is doing so for all other ethnic groups in Canada, and GUC’s leadership will continue to partner with Canada’s Federal Government and other territorial governments for all of its programs.

GN: How are you going to measure the effectiveness of this endeavour?

Sarah Awuah: GUC’s effectiveness will be mirrored to and measure within: i.

Canada’s non-profit Act as per Corporations Canada, Canada Revenue Agency and other territorial bodies legislations etc. ii.

Quality of our programs and impact on the lives of individuals and Ghanaian communities that we serve.

GN: When you say GUC is the Voice of Ghanaians in Canada, what do you mean?

Sarah Awuah: Ghana Union of Canada represents Canada’s Ghanaian Community before the people and government of Canada. Our focus is on policyoriented issues and their impacts, Our Clients, all individuals of Ghanaian heritage living in Canada, and Our Key Partner, Government of Canada.

GUC’s open call to Ghanaians from coast-to-coast is: Do not buy into and/or perpetuate the misinformation about GUC and/or its founder, let’s come together, harness our individual talents, intellectual capabilities, join our silo voices into a single & unified voice and endeavour to share in the wealth, the beauty and tremendous opportunities Canada has for its citizens regardless of where you came from.

GN: Thank you for talking to us

The Ghanaian News May 2021 33

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Immigrating, Settling and Intergrating into Canadian Society through a Unified Voice

cont’d from pg. 28

to be eligible for your Canadian citizenship. Once you become a citizen you can enjoy all the benefitsof being a Canadian. Canadian Citizenship also protects you Eventhough I was a certified Anesthesiologist, I still faced a lot of opposition and from being deported to your Country of birth if you are convicted of a serious rude comments not only from patients ,some nursing staff but also some of my crime. colleagues who were all menof course.

Being a Permanent Resident comes with responsibilities. We must obey the laws It’s well known that Black professionals like me have to work twice as hard to get of the country, pay our taxes and be responsible members of society. half the recognition we deserve.

Those of us with children, should be willing to volunteer in school activities, You know men in powerful positions tend to be threatened by competent women and participate in community drives to help our youth. Monitor the activities capable of doing the same work. In society, we raise men to be strong and provide of your kids and their friends and be willing to mentor them. Be a member PTA and that often becomes a man’s identity. So, when a woman poses a threat to and learn about the school system and the issues that affectyour children.Coming that identity by being able to perform the same workand even better, men have from Ghana, we had a different approach to education and I was not aware that in a tendency to react negatively as if your mere competence is an attack on their Canada, they divide the students into different streams. Make sure you choose a masculinity. My focus was to be the best I could be and I was. finally gained stream that will enable your child to have a post-secondary education. the respect of the patients, the OR nurses , Surgeons and other colleagues. No Get involved in your new environment. Learn to integrate and navigate the one doubted the ability of the Doctor trained in Ghana., a woman none the less. system to your advantage. Isolation does not help it only leads to depression.

Some of my surgical colleagues will request my services dealing with difficult Don’t only hang around your Ghanaian friends and family. Venture out and make cases because they knew they could depend on my skills to keep the patient alive. new friends. for15yrs before they hired two other femaleanesthesiologists.

I also gained a reputation as a singing anesthesiologist, because I would engage One of the core objectives of GUC is to: my patients by talking and singing to them to relax them before giving them the • Function as a Resource Hub to strengthen communication and activities anesthesia. A lot of people appreciated, But few didn’t. between and among the provinces, local associations, cultural groups, professional bodies and individuals in Ghanaian communities across I rose to the rank of an Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Canada.

Anesthesia and had the opportunity to teach and mentor many residents.

I was still the only Black female Anesthesiologist in the Academic Dept until Be willing to use all the resources you have at your disposal. The library offers an my retirement after more than three decades in 2015. I continued to work in an array of information that can help you. endoscopy clinic till I finally retired from active service in 2018.

Set your goals and work towards it. If you need to change careers, make sure you find something that is in high demand, and do a co-op program. That will As a new immigrant it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities: ensure you getting a job at the end of your training. Always look at the talents If you are here legally, you can apply for your PR card, if you here illegally and interest of your children and guide them to make the right choices. Keep e.g., overstaying your visa and want to become a Permanent Resident, you may them grounded and teach them coping skills. Make them proud of their heritage need the help of an immigration lawyer to help you go through the immigration by your example. system. I would be cautious working with the so-called immigration consultant, because many of them are scammers trying to take advantage of people in dire There will be lots of frustrations and obstacles along the way, but each conquered situation. If you are looking to work with an immigration consultant, make sure obstacle makes you stronger and better. they are officially regulated.

My parting reflections: As a permanent resident you can live, work and study anywhere in Canada 1) Always remember you are an ambassador at your workplace.

You are protected under the Canadian law and charter of Right but you cannot 2) How you behave and interact with people have a lasting impact vote or run for political position or work in High level security job until you become a Canadian Citizen.The good news is in Canada it only takes three years 3) Respect everyone

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Thank you.

Gomoa Akyempim Omanhen facing distoolment charges from his kingmakers cont’d from pg. 12 join in the protest against the Omanhen because, to them, instead of seeking development for his people or helping the communities acquire meaningful development, he is rather engaging in conflicts-breeding and fraudulent activities that are setting the area back.

Even though the Omanhen, as expected, has responded in a press conference at Gomoa Assin that all the charges levelled against him are not true, it is

obvious he has sadly lost his legitimacy, kingmakers and people already.

As the traditional process to distool him continues, all other chiefs and queen mothers must take serious lessons from his predicaments and quickly come to the inevitable realisation that their constituents are not sitting silent anymore. Many young people are beginning to question the status quo.

Columnist: Raymond Ablorh

PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS. SO LET’S TALK CALL GHANAIAN NEWS 416-916-3700

36

The Ghanaian News May 2021

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The Ghanaian News May 2021 37

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The Ghanaian News May 2021

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The Ghanaian News May 2021 39

Ghana’s new rental scheme won’t fix the real problema housing shortage We believe in the free flow of information Ghana’s government has announced a loan scheme to help tenants pay the hefty advance rent (often covering two years) to private landlords. Advance rent is also prevalent in several other African countries.

Scholars have highlighted several problems this advance rent payment poses to renters. They include psychological distress over difficulty in raising the funds, and forgoing basic necessities such as food, healthcare and leisure in order to save for the advance rent. Evidence so far suggests that it is the period over which tenants have to pay the advance rent that is the problem.

It is not the rent charged that is the problem but the period over which it is multiplied to arrive at the advance rent. This also suggests that the problem is largely a housing supply problem.

Ahead of the December 2020 presidential election, the issue of affordable housing was on the agenda of the two major parties – the New Patriotic Party and the National Democratic Congress. On 12 March the reelected government announced details of its scheme. The scheme is available to those in formal employment with identifiable and regular income.

Renters in Ghana are at the mercy of landlords. Remi Kahane/Wikimedia Commons

divisive social norm. Our research highlighted how Ghana’s rental problem exacerbates inequality. This is because some tenants are able to draw upon relatives living abroad, friends, or employers to help them pay their loan. The majority end up impoverishing themselves just As a team of international housing academics, we to remain in the rental sector. agree with the Ghanaian government that tenants need assistance, but our research concludes that Reduced labour mobility the approach needs to be vastly different to what government has announced. The National Rental Young people on low incomes are especially Assistance Scheme will only further legitimise vulnerable. They have little choice but to accept and prolong the demand for advance rent, an these punitive terms. As a consequence, they become saddled with enormous debts. The two illegal practice. year deposit is not a property bond. Unlike a rent deposit or bond in more regulated markets, the A financial burden tenant does not get back this lump sum. It is two Ghana’s rental system is broken. Our research has years’ worth of rent paid upfront. This means the over time scrutinised the practice of demanding lump sum the tenant pays freezes the payment of a two-year deposit. Its impact is felt most acutely rent for two years. in Ghana’s informal rental sector, which makes up 80% of the country’s housing stock.

We found that first-time renters had to save their monthly incomes for a little over nine months The research is based on an original survey of and regular renters for a period of seven months tenants in the informal sector in Dansoman, a in order to take up the tenancy. municipal capital in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. It started as a neighbourhood of state- Our research revealed that this system has an owned estates for public sector workers in impact on young people’s labour mobility in Accra. It is located close to the trading hubs Ghana. This is significant considering that 21.3% of Kaneshie and Agbogbloshie and Kwame and 22.5% of the unemployed population in Nkrumah Circle, making it a preferred residential Ghana respectively live in the Greater location for the informal sector. The social Accra and Ashanti Region where most jobs are composition of Dansoman is a blend of low, concentrated. The general housing deficit in the middle and high income groups. country and the potential lock-in effect of the rent advance system make it difficult for tenants By our estimates, no more than one in five tenants to easily move to where jobs are, even within big paying the two-year advance rent will be eligible cities. to receive support from the government’s advance rent assistance scheme. Rather than resolving the Proponents of the rental sector say that it gives issue, the government’s new scheme is in danger tenants flexibility to manage personal budgets, of legitimising an illegal practice that won’t fix allowing them to have mobility as they search Ghana’s housing crisis. for work. But the burden of finding two years’ rent in advance results in regular tenants, in The Ghana Rent Act of 1963 (as amended) states particular, remaining in their properties for that a deposit of six months is the maximum around 10 years. This suggests that tenants are that a landlord can request from a tenant. This anything but mobile. national rental assistance scheme will embolden landlords to keep charging the two-year advance A two-fold challenge rent which is illegal in terms of the Rent Act. Ghana has a two-fold housing challenge. In the The Ghanaian government presents the rental absence of a functioning insurance scheme for assistance scheme as a way of assisting tenants landlords, they pass risk on to tenants. There is struggling to pay the advance rent. In reality also inadequate provision of affordable housing it’s a scheme that is danger of entrenching a in Ghana. So, demand outstrips supply and

landlords can sk for, and receive, two years’ rent in advance.

The new scheme is only available to people with regular income in both formal and informal employment. Loans will be offered when employment is with a formally registered company and a salary is involved. This risks exacerbating inequality. Many will not be eligible as they make ends meet in the informal employment sector where their income streams are not typically viewed as regular. This is despite the fact that in some cases regularity can be established for informal sector employees. It could also lead to exploitation of those receiving the loans, as employers could abuse the fact that continued residence in their homes is dependent on continued employment.

A way forward Ghana needs an overhaul of its broken rental sector. Rather than a national scheme to help private landlords mitigate risk, there should be a push to work with district assemblies and chiefs who play a critical role in local governance and development. For example, chiefs are the custodians of valuable land that could be released to create low cost housing schemes.

Government can support this bottom-up approach to the housing problem by empowering District Assemblies to make housing provision a key part of their mandate while exploring innovative models to access land and finance housing development. We believe it is by increasing the supply of rental housing that the monopoly power of private landlords who charge longer periods of advance rent can be broken.

Authors Nicky Morrison Professor of Planning, Western Sydney University Emmanuel Kofi Gavu Lecturer, Land Economy, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Lewis Abedi Asante Lecturer, Kumasi Technical University Richmond Juvenile Ehwi Research Associate, University of Cambridge

40

The Ghanaian News May 2021

The Ghanaian News May 2021 41

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FOOD AND RECIPES Compiled by Nana Ama, Toronto, ON

Garden Egg Stew Garden egg stew is a popular Ghanaian dish featuring African eggplant, or garden egg as its main ingredient. Although the eggplant is a fruit, it is prepared as a vegetable in this stew, combined with tomatoes, onions, peppers, palm oil, dried fish or shrimp, and seasonings such as ginger and nutmeg.

The stew is often served for lunch or dinner, accompanied by boiled plantains.

Ingredients 10 large Garden Eggs 1-2 large fresh Tilapia, each cut into 3 pieces5-6 large Tomatoes 2 scotch bonnet pepper and a handful of kpakpo shito. You can use other peppers 2 Large Onions 3/4 cup Palm Oil Salt to taste

Direction 1.

Season the tilapia with salt and spices for half an hour to an hour in the fridge

2.

Fry the chopped onions in palm oil for 5 minutes

3.

Cut off the stalks of the garden eggs and slice each into two

4.

Boil the garden eggs for 10-15 minutes on high heat in a pot until they become transparent and the outer layer begins to peel off

5.

Add the blended tomatoes and peppers to the pot of frying onions (stew) and continue to stir regularly for about 10-15 minutes

6.

Add salt to taste

7.

Remove the outer layer of the garden eggs (optional)

8.

Mash the garden eggs into a rough paste

9.

Add the mashed garden eggs to the stew

10.

Add the fresh tilapia to the stew

11.

Leave the stew to simmer on low to medium heat stirring occasionally for another 15-20 minutes

12.

Add boiled eggs to garnish (optional)

13.

Garden egg stew can be served with yam and or boiled plantain

Tatale The best way to describe Tatale to our English speaking readers is that it is similar to pancakes in its preparation but, made primarily with mashed over ripe plantain.

Tatale are delicious small spicy plantain patties that are also called the “golden pancakes of Ghana”. They are generally served with bambara beans.

Ingredients • • • • • • • •

2 yellow plantains (very ripe) ½ cup corn flour (fine corn meal) 1 onion , chopped 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger 1 small lemon (freshly squeezed) ½ teaspoon red pepper powder ½ pinch salt Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions 1.

Slice the plantains, place in a large bowl and immediately sprinkle with lemon juice.

2.

With a fork, mash the plantains and add the onion and ginger.

3.

Add the corn flour, chilli and salt and mix well with a wooden spoon.

4.

In a deep skillet, heat a large amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.

5.

Maintain the temperature of the oil around 340 F (175 C) during frying.

6.

Form balls the size of a ping pong ball, flatten them slightly and fry on both sides until they are golden brown.

7.

Serve immediately.

The Ghanaian News May 2021 43

Inauguration ceremony of the New Ghana Union of Canada (GUC) held in Toronto cont’d from pg. 1

“Our nation is at the crossroads, and we need dedicated and selfless Ghanaians to rise up and work together to return Ghana to her former glory.”

Koney went on to say, “your presence here today serves as a reminder of how we are inextricably woven together as a single Tapestry, therefore when you mess with one thread of the tapestry, you messed with the collective whole; this is the very philosophical symbolism of our Ghanaian Kente Cloth. Our love for one another as Ghanaians is entrenched in the most powerful statement ever made by an African president – ‘The independence of Ghana is meaningless unless it is linked with the total liberation of Africa in the spirit of UBUNTU.’ In essence, I am who I am because of who you are.

This is the spirit of Oman Ghana, the eagle of Africa and the warrior king.”

In his speech, Oseadeyor Nana Kwateng Amanin of Montreal Traditional Council, who was the chairman for the inauguration made a passionate plea to all Ghanaian Canadians to support the new Ghana Union of Canada to succeed. He said “Today, we have a new birth of the Ghana Union of Canada. This association embraces all Ghanaians living in Canada from Inuvik in NWT to Windsor in Ontario and Victoria in B.C. to St John’s in NFLD. I am making this passionate appeal to all Ghanaians from Coast to Coast to embrace this idea of a Ghana Union in Canada so that we could have our voice heard as people when confronted with challenges. Our unity is our strength. We can only confront our common purpose when we come together. There is a saying that goes “living a good life is making healthy choices”. The same goes to achieving our purpose is to come together as one people. That is the only way we can be heard. Individually, we have made some progress but, collectively we have very little to show to our children and grandchildren”.

Hon. Judy Sgro, MP Humber RiverBlack Creek sent her message via a pre-recorded video. Hon. Judy Sgro began her message by congratulating the GUC on its inauguration on behalf of herself, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and all her liberal caucus members. In her words, “I have nothing more than excitement to see the Ghanaian community continue to move forward.” She also expressed looking forward to working with the GUC, seeing how they meet their objectives, understanding their desires in order to ascertain how she can help to advance all the issues that will help the Ghanaians in Canada.

There were other speakers at the event who also added their voices to congratulate the birth of the new Union and they are.

Dr. Ama DeGraft Johnson, (Her speech is published in its entirety on page 28 in this issue) Paul Banahene Adjei, Professor at Newfoundland &

On MPs double salary allegations: Parliamentary privilege should not be a haven from the law “No heart, no conscience, no empathy – guys, why haven’t you gone into politics?” says a cartoon of Dorothy chatting to the tin man, the scarecrow, andthe lion.

Labrador, Dr. Kwadwo Kyerenateng of Ottawa, and God knows Hope Kumasah of Manitoba.

It is nearly two years since the news spiralled through that some Members of Parliament have allegedly grabbed double salaries,and nothing meaningful has been done towards bringing the suspects to book. How unfair?

Mrs. Sarah Awuah, the founding member of the Ghana Union of Canada explain the need for this new organization by presenting the overview and the objective of GUC

It would thus appear that the alleged suspects are hiding behind the dowdy and largely unjust parliamentary privileges and concessions.

She started with reference to our numbers in Canada, she said. .

According to Statistics Canada, there are approximately 85,000 people of Ghanaian heritage living in Canada.

This number is not trivial, and it is ever-growing. Over the years, many Ghanaian Associations have filled the need for a community forum via associations and groups at the provincial and city levels. Therefore these associations are to be commended for their role in the Ghanaian community here in Canada.

But is this enough? There have been many attempts by prominent members of Ghanaian Heritage in Canada to create an organization such as the Ghana Union of Canada (GUC) in the previous years, but we could not do so due to various reasons, including distance and communication challenges.

With the advent of Covid-19 and its attendant problems, we all experienced increased networking and communication opportunities facilitated through technology. Thus, something that may have seemed elusive was no longer an unattainable goal or something on the roadmap.

It isworthmentioning that much as the parliamentarians privileges and concessions are grounded in the Constitution of Ghana, it would be somewhat fallacious forany person or group of persons to contend that the parliamentarians immunity from arrest and issue of summons without the Speaker of Parliament’s priorknowledge and permission is not archaic in the fight against corruption in the 21st century.

Even though it seems controversial, some optimists prefer to argue forcefully in favour of the parliamentary privilege. But I, for one, belong to the schools of thought that vehemently contend that the parliamentary privilege is outmoded and must therefore be expunged and tossed into dustbin accordingly.

After all, we are all equal before the law. Yes, no one is above the law, so why must a section of the society have some kind of immunity in the justicedelivery?

Much as the controversial concession was inserted in the constitution so as to remedy needless obstructions and to allow the parliamentarians to go abouttheir duties seamlessly, the provision somehow gives a section of the population an unfettered freedom.

Indeed, we acknowledge wholeheartedly that our representatives in parliament are undertaking very important role in the nation building. But the allimportantquestion we should be asking is: is their role more important than that of a farmer, a teacher, a doctor among others?

Interestingly, the proponents of the antiquated provision contend that without the immunity, the parliamentarians may be prevented from theirimportant duties through suppositious civil and criminal law suits.

Well, such a notion is not out of place. However, my bone of contention is that the parliamentarians are not the only relevant actors in the nationbuilding who require special protection in their line of duty.

For argument sake, if the law can excuse a suspected parliamentarian from arrest on his/her way to work, whilst at work or on his/her way back from work, Birthed out of a need to have a voice at the law might as well make room for the equally important contributors such as the federal level, the GUC executives farmers, teachers, doctors among others. believed it was the right time to gather persons of Ghanaian Heritage in Why must we allow a section of the population to perpetrate criminalities and Canada to reconsider the idea, backed then hide behind the law? with action.

The parliamentary privilege was never intended to help parliamentarians Furthermore she explained that, GUC escape the criminal law, but it was rather inserted inthe constitution to give is a Federally registered Not-For-Profit parliamentarians immunity against needless civil suits for defamation whilst Organization and their mandate is to undertaking their parliamentary duties. represent the voices of all Ghanaian heritage persons across the breadth and It is important to note that the provision was taken from the British width of Canada at the Federal Level. parliamentary privilege and transposed and given meaning in our constitution.

She said being federally focused means, GUC will endeavour to work hand- The crucial question then is: do the originators of the controversial provision in-hand with the existing Ghanaian still find it prudent and expedient?

Associations in the Communities, Provinces and Territories representing Interestingly, a few years ago, three Labour MPs in the United Kingdom Ghanaian communities to ensure our were charged with false accounting over their parliamentary expenses claims. voice is heard at the Federal Level. However,they deny the offences and tried to avoid a criminal trial by invoking The GUC structure is very similar to the 1689 Bill of Rights which gives oxygen to parliamentary privilege. that of other cultural groups such as the Ukrainians and Chinese, and it has Suffice it to stress that the parliamentary privilege stops MPs and peers been proven to be a successful model. cont’d on pg. 50 To be clear, the existing Ghanaian Associations are not accountable to the GUC, and neither is the GUC accountable to the current bodies. GUC will fill the gap, where there is any, and work hand in hand with the Ghanaian Associations to influence policies at the Federal Level.

Finally she invited all readers to visit GUC website (www.ghanaunion. ca) for factual information about the organization.

There were about 200 participant login during the launching.

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

44

The Ghanaian News May 2021

PLACES OF WORSHIP DIRECTORY

Ghana Methodist Churches in Canada ( SOCIETIES UNDER THE GHANA METHODIST CONFERENCE) The Superintendents Minister-In-Charge invites

you to worship with us

Toronto Society Place of Worship: 69 Milvan Drive, North York, Ont. (Finch Av./Milvan)

416-743-4555 (Office) 905-216-2323 (Residence) Day and Time of Worship:

Very Rev. Joseph Owusu Atuahene Minister-in-charge

Edmonton Methodist

Sunday: Bible Class Meeting:

10:00 a.m. - 10.30 a.m.

Church Service:

10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Jericho Hour Prayer Meeting 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Wednesday Mid-day Prayer - 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Friday: Bible Teaching/Prayer Meeting 8:00 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.

Saturday Organizational Meeting: 6.30 p.m. - 9.30 p.m.

Sunday Brampton Prayer Meeting

8:00 p.m.

587-336-1223

Redemption Methodist Church

Ottawa Methodist 613-823-2291

Vancouver Methodist 416-833-1615

Location: 955 Wilson Ave., Unit 12, North York, ON Weekly Service Schedule: Monday 7 pm - 8 pm Online Bible Study: Thursday 7 pm - 8:30 pm, Prayer Meeting Friday 7:30 pm - 9 pm

Divine Service, Sundays 10 am - 12:30 pm Contacts: Agnes Donkor - 647-881-4808, Felicia Owusu - 647-533-1093, Grace Kubi - 647-608-5373

In Montreal at: Place of Worship: 6870 Rue de Terreborne, Montreal, Que, H4B 1C5

Day and Time of Worship Sunday Divine Service: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Friday Prayer Meetings: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Contact: Rev. Joshua C. Doughan - 514-542-0871

Hamilton Society Stoney Creek United Church (Chapel) 1 King Street West, Stoney Creek, Hamilton Contact: 289-244-5914, 289-700-6815, 289-698-1388

Very Reverend Albert K. Appiah, BETHANY METHODIST CHURCH-BRAMPTON PLACE OF WORSHIP1A KNIGHTSBRIGE ROAD (Senior’s Lounge) Sunday Divine Service 2PM-5PM Online Prayer Meeting Fridays at 8PM -9PM 416-800-4317 Code # 9632581 Contact: Robert Frans (289-541-5579) Felix Gyimah (289-931-8443)

SERVICES ARE CONDUCTED FOLLOWING THE TRADITIONAL GHANA METHODIST LITURGY. PLEASE COME AND JOIN US. WE HAVE A PLACE FOR YOU. GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU

FOOD FOR LIFE

Bringing the Gospel to our Community

The Ghanaian News May 2021 45

by Rev. Isaac DeGraft Takyi

THE CHRISTIAN AND COVID-19: “LOVE IS GENEROUS-UNDERSTANDING MONEY AND WEALTH” “Panic not, fear not, worry not, blame not, complain not, condemn not and criticize not, BUT Trust God, Have Faith, Be Hygienic, stay home, socially distance, Mask Up, pray always, love people, worship God, reach out and Serve society” Isaac De-Graft Takyi “Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune.” Jim Rohn.

Let us talk about money and wealth this month not the way that you think it is: • Questions about money • Church and money • Jews and money • Paul and money • Jesus and money PURPOSE Is to encourage us to know that God wants us as His children, blessed with godly wisdom, great health, and abundant wealth so we can build his Kingdom on earth. To ensure that His will is done on earth as it is in heaven.

IMAGINATIVE QUESTIONS Answer them for yourself in the best possible way: 1. What is your financial situation right now?

2. Do you believe that God want you to be rich, healthy, wise, and wealthy?

3. What is money to you as a child of God? 4. Do you know how to earn money? What does this even mean?

5. Do you know how to make money work for you?

6. Do you know how to make money work without you?

7. Do you believe that God need His children to be businessmen and women?

8. How will it feel like to be financially free? No credit card debt, No car loans, No mortgages, No Student loan? When money is not a problem to you?

9. What difference can you make in your life, family, church, country, and community if you are financially free?

CHURCH AND MONEY Most people are taught in Canada and the church on how to “earn” and “save” money, but most people are not taught how to “make”, “create money” or “live off of” their money. What do you think?

Four questions about money we should always be asking: • How do you earn money?

• How do you make money work for you?

• How do you make money work without you?

• How do you make sense of making money to make a difference in the world?

In 1975, Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade and Loren Cunningham, founder of Youth with a Mission (YWAM), developed a God-given, world-changing strategy. Their mandate: Bring Godly change to a nation by reaching its seven spheres, or mountains, of societal influence.

They concluded that in order to truly transform any nation with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, these seven facets of society must be reached: Religion, Family, Education, Government, Media, Arts & Entertainment and Business.1 In which of these facets of society are you called to influence?

THE JEWS AND MONEY Let us learn from the Jews when it comes to money and wealth.

Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’ 18 You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

17

Deuteronomy 8:17-18 In his article “Judaism, Markets and Capitalism: separating myths from Reality,” by Corrine and Robert M. Sauer, clarifies the Jewish Economics Theory or concept of riches and wealth in Six foundations based on the Old Testament: What is the Jewish mindset and view of money?

As Christians most of take a fearful approach to riches and wealth 1. Participation in the creative process In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 6:1 that we are co-laborers together with God. God has His part to play, and we have our part to play. God’s part is grace, while our part is faith. God gives Adam a Garden and tells him to cultivate it. God promises Israel a land and expect them to go and possess it.

2. Protection of private property This foundation says that it is important to have property or, in other words, to become an owner.

The idea here is that, when you own something, you have the opportunity to become a steward of that which you own.

3. The accumulation of wealth as virtue In Jewish Economic theory, they believe that accumulating of wealth is a good thing and a godly thing. The Jewish mindset sees being able to steward and mange wealth as being “holy in the earth” but in the western mindset, most people do not see it that way.

4. Caring for the needy This was a command God gave his children. Caring for the needy. Always give aid in times of crisis. How can you give if you do not have? But always remember this cliché when it comes to charity: Instead of giving somebody a fish so they can eat the fish, teach them how to fish. This way, they will always have food to eat. Make the needy and poor, self sufficient.

5. Limited Government This has to do with governments and the tax structure than anything. The Jews believe there should be government, but it should be limited to allow people freedom to live and engage in enterprise.

6. Work is worship. -“Tikkun Olam” The sixth Jewish mindset is that they consider work to be the same as worship. There is an understanding of a marketplace, kingdom sound in the earth. God has bigger plans and bigger purpose. He wants to see His people empowered so that we can see His kingdom come to earth as it is in heaven.

Source: Money Mastery by Billy Epperhart.

PAUL ON MONEY 1 Timothy 6:17-18 passage reads: “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who

richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.”

cont’d on pg. 48

46

The Ghanaian News May 2021

Disciples Revival Church Healing & Deliverance Centre Rev. Dr. & Rev (Mrs) Charles Mantey Founders/Senior Pastors

416-614-7771 Email:

info@disciplesrevivalchurch.org www.disciplesrevivalchurch.org

SUNDAY SERVICE - Morning - 10:00 am Mid-Week Service Wed: Bible Study & Prayer: 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Friday: Youth Service 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Friday: Adult Intercessory Prayer - 7:00 - 9:00 pm For deliverance & healing, come to Disciples, a Church that caters to your needs Do visit our website and sign up for the Pastor's monthly newsletter

www.disciplesrevivalchurch.org

30 Gordon Mackay Rd, North York, ON, M9N 2V6

The Ghanaian News May 2021 47

CHRIST REDEEMER CHURCH

Pastor-in-charge: Pastor Eric Amoah Tel: (416) 748-1242 Cell: (416) 300-9970 Church Services Sunday Service: Bible Study: 10 a.m.-11a.m.

Worship Service: 11a.m. - 1p.m.

Wednesday: Bible Study 6:30p.m.-7:30p.m.

Pastor Eric Amoah Friday Night Prayer: 8p.m.-10p.m.

Location: 14 Haas Rd. , #100, Etobicoke, ON, M9W 3A2

EVANGEL ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH 314 Rexdale Blvd. Etobicoke, Ont. M9W 1R6 Tel: 416-242-7950 Fax: 416-242-8573 Church Activities

Sunday School:

Church Service:

Sunday Evening: Pastor in Charge

Wednesday Bible Studies: Rev. Milton Offei

Friday Prayer Meeting:

Transformation Centre Assembly of God Church, Mississauga Join us on Sundays for Worship at: Venue: 161 Lakeshore Road W, Mississauga, ON

Time: 10:30am—1:30pm

I AM ALPHA & OMEGA MINISTRY INT'L We invite you to worship with us Church Service: Sunday Worship: 10.00a.m. - 12.30 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Studies: 6.00p.m. - 7.30 p.m.

Friday Prayer Meeting: 7.00p.m. - 9.00 p.m.

JESUS Loves You

Contact: Rev. Isaac K. Bonful Tel: 289-814-5482 Email: transformcentreag@yahoo.ca Website: www. transformationcentreag.ca

Invites you all to come worship with us Venue: 95 Eddystone Ave unit 4 North York, ON Time of worship: Sunday:10am - 1pm Wednesday bible studies 7pm - 9pm Friday Prayer / Deliverance 7pm - 9pm

Pastor Joseph Nash Sarfo Founder & Pastor-in-charge

The thief cometh not , but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.11.l am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. Amen.

John 10 :10-11

Tel: 416 667-9763 cell 647 500-4415 / 647 718-4819 / 416 300-4258 Email:pastorjsarfo@gmail.com I encourage you to join us in worship regardless of your situation the power of God is available to make you whole

Bishop John Mensah

NEW LOCATION 100 Penn Drive, Unit #6, North York, Ont.

Tel: 416-419-6671

Be transformed by the renewing of your mind… “Rom.12:2a

Good Shepherd Prayer Ministry

10a.m. -11:00a.m.

11a.m. - 1:30p.m.

7p.m. - 8:30p.m.

7p.m. - 8:30p.m.

7p.m. - 9:00p.m.

Bethel Prayer Ministry Int'l Do you desire to experience the power and the presence of God demonstrated in your life?

Do you want to experience the marvelous work of God's grace in your life?

Then, Bethel Prayer Ministry International would like to invite you to visit their church where the word of God is preached powerfully to release the power of God in your life.

Pastor Dennis Awuku COME AND YOU WILL BE BLESSED Senior Pastor

Contact:

Cell. 416-400-8211 Church 416-642-0390 Worship Hours: Sunday Service: 9am - 1pm Tuesday 9am - 2 pm Consultation Wednesday: 7pm - 9p.m.

Friday: 9pm - 12 pm Saturday (Prayer Warriors) 6pm - 8pm Location: 52 Carrier Drive, Unit 12, (Albion/Hwy 27)

Etobicoke, Ont., M9w 5S5

48

The Ghanaian News May 2021

The Apostolic Church Int'l.

The Apostolic Church International (Toronto Assembly) is a Branch of The Apostolic Church in Ghana

The Christian and COVID-19: “Love is GenerousUnderstanding Money and Wealth” cont’d from pg. 45 When your season of money and material wealth arrives, if it has not already, Paul, the Apostle in 1 Timothy 6:17-18 passage is telling us to do the following four things: •

Do not become arrogant. Work hard and become successful in life but do not think of yourself as better than others because of your material wealth. In Deuteronomy 8:18 Moses reminds us, “But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth.”

•

Do not put your hope in your wealth. Proverbs 23:5 says, “Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.” A good job or business and its steady earnings can be here today and gone tomorrow.

•

Be rich in good deeds. A good deed is a free and voluntary act of service toward another person. Doing good deeds for others is the fruit of your salvation in Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:10 tells us: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.”

Apostle Nii Aryee (Area Supt. Canada-Wide)

Meeting Schedule Sunday (Worship) Wednesday Teaching Service Friday Prayers Friday: Monthly All Night Service Saturday : Movements -

- - - -

10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

10:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

•

Be generous and willing to share. Generous people are synergistic. They build organizations and contribute to the success of others. Think about it: who wants to do business with someone who only takes?

JESUS AND MONEY Jesus spoke more on money than most of the topics we can think about lets just stay in Matthew 13 and the Good Samaritan story: He told many stories in the form of parables, such as this one:“Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seeds.

24 Here is another story Jesus told: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a farmer who planted good seed in his field.

3

Field Superintendent contact: 416-454-6141 (cell) 905-913-2037 (Res)

Here is another illustration Jesus used: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. 32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches.”

31

168 Rexdale Blvd., Etobicoke, Ontario, M9W 1P6 Church Office 416-740-1979 Field Secretary: Pastor Cyril Williams - 416-875-9616

THE APOSTLES' CONTINUATION CHURCH INTERNATIONAL (CANADA)

Jesus also used this illustration: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough.”

33

44 “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field.

“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. 46 When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!

45

47 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind.

Luke 10:30-35

Jesus replied with a story: “A Jewish man was traveling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.

30

“By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. 32 A Temple assistant[a] walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.

31

“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. 34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. 35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins,[b] telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’

Why didn’t the priest and the temple assistant help the guy out? Why do you think the Samaritan was able to do what he did?

33

North American Headquarters: 10 Belfield Road Toronto, Ont., M9W 1G1 Tel: 416-247-6629 Fax: 416-247-5308 Apostle Charles Anokye-Manu

Website: www.apostlescontinuation.org

SERVICE TIMES:

Worship Service Bible Studies Service All Night Service Deliverance

- Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday 9:00 p.m.

- Friday 9:30 p.m.

- Saturday 4:00 p.m.

Worship With Us At These Branches In Canada

Toronto

10 Belfield Road Tel: 416-247-6629 Scarborough Assembly 63 Howden Rd., Unit 'F' Scarborough, ON, M1R 3C7 Tel 647-850- 0142 Fax 416-945- 9445

Montreal Assembly 378 Cremazie East Montreal, Quebec, H2P 1E5 Tel: 514-271-9083 Pastor-In-Charge: John Arhin

Contact: Res: 450-687-4916 Cell: 514-654-6178

No one will remember the Good Samaritan if he had good intentions only, he had money as well.

Margaret Thatcher For Wisdom, Health and wealth: 9 Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.[a] 10 Your kingdom come, your will be done,[b] on earth as it is in heaven.11 Give us this day our daily bread,[c] 12 and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.[d]14 For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you,Matthew 6:9-14 (ESV)

Rhema Power of Grace Chapel Int'l

Invites all Christians, Non-Christians and members of the community to join us worship the Great Jehovah

Place of Worship:

350 Deerhide Cres, North York, ON Rev. Bishop Joe Bonnah

Days And Time of Worship Sunday Divine Worship Twi Service - 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Multicultural Service - 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Wednesday - Midweek Service Friday - All Night Service

Founder &Pastor-in-charge

-

8p.m. - 10p.m.

10p.m. - 1a.m.

Contact Lines: 416-321-2796 (Pastor's Res) 416-747-9225 (Church) Cell: 647-921-2414

The Ghanaian News May 2021 49

Glory Pentecostal Ministry of Toronto Pastor-in-charge: Rev. Rockson Owusu Atwima - 416-708-7742

Invites all Christians and Non-Christians to join us to worship the Almighty God WORSHIP SCHEDULE Sunday Regular Service 11:00 am to 1:30 pm Tuesday Prayer and Healing Service 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Friday Prayer Night 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm

PLACE OF WORSHIP 230 Eddystone Ave., #207, North York, Ont. M3N 1H7 We are more tan our conquerors Romans 8:37

"Come and see the manifestation and the power of the Holy Spirit at work"

Praise Temple of Christ International Lighthouse Assembly of God Church THEME FOR YEAR 2020:

Snr. Pastor: Apostle Osei-Bonsu 336 Gary Ray Drive @ Signet Worship Schedule

“PRAYER AND THE WORD” Acts 6:4 SUNDAY SERVICES: 10:00 am-1:30 pm Ghanaian Service Pastor-in-charge:

WEEKDAY SERVICES: Rev. Boniface Keelson Wednesday - Bible Studies 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Friday - Holy Ghost Service 7:00 pm -9:00 pm

Sunday Worship - 10 am - 12:30 pm Wednesday - Bible Study - 7 pm - 9 pm Friday - Prayer Meeting - 8 pm - 10 pm Second and last Friday of each month All Night Prayer Meeting 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Apostle Osei Bonsu

42 Steinway Blvd. Unit 1&2

LOCATION:

(Hwy 27/Steeles) Toronto, Ontario, M9W 6Y6

Tel: 416-740-1200 Fax: 416-740-6435 Email:

lighthouseagtoronto.org

lighthouseag@outlook.com

Ghanaian Presbyterian Church of Montreal

Minister: Rev. Stephen Azundem Services: Tel (office): 450-314-0871 Sunday 10:00AM – 1:00PM Tel (Cell): 514 660 2422 Divine Worship Service Res: 514-542-4142 Wednesday 7:00PM – 9:00PM Teaching Service (Bible Study) Friday 7:00PM – 9:00PM – Prayer Service

3000 Boul St-rose Laval, Quebec, H7R 1T6

Immanuel Assembly of God Church, Scarborough

Rev. Douglas O. Ansah Pastor-in-charge

Sunday School: 9:30am -10:30am Church Service: 10:30am - 12 noon

LOCATION Don Montgomery Community Centre 2467 Eglinton Ave. E. Scarborough, Ont., (Kennedy/Eglinton Subway Station) For more info contact:

647-880-4216

Email: immanuelscarborough@gmail.com Website: immanuelaog.ca.

Pastor Appiah Jacob

For information call: 905-840-7387, 647-208-1093 416-209-9136, 647-710-2573

50

The Ghanaian News May 2021

Sarah Efumwaa Obeng

8 Simple Ways To Bump Up Your Motivation Hello, again, my friend. I hope you are doing well and living with an attitude of gratitude! Even if you’re not following the news, you have definitely heard of the numbers that the global pandemic has brought about in terms of deaths.

If you are still here and can move and have your being, it is disastrous to live with an attitude of complaints instead of an attitude of gratitude. Be grateful and thankful for who you are and what you have!

Meanwhile, regardless of what’s going on in our world right now, life still goes on if you are still in this life. People are living their dreams and living their purpose. Are you? If you are not yet, it is not too late to redeem the time and start doing something meaningful or more meaningful with this precious life we all have been given.

the more challenging it is to keep our motivation at high levels. In such times, we all need to do out best and keep going. However, we also need practical ways to power or growth and motivation engine. Here are eight practically simple ways to super charge our motivation.

Constantly remember your reason for starting or your purpose. There is a reason we start the projects or ventures or undertakings that we start. Why did you start pursuing the dream or goal in the first place? What is the big purpose that motivated you to embark on the journey? Maybe it is more time with the family. Or for a better future for the family. Or a better future for yourself.

Or more money. Or more time with God. To keep us motivated, we must as often as we can, remember the reason for which we started that dream or goal and project to help us going.

However, when we start doing something great or great things, it is Focus on the things we can control. inevitable we will encounter obstacles It is obvious, it is not everything we or hurdles. The more hurdles we face, have control over. The more you focus

on things out of your control, the less motivated you will feel. When we focus on things, we have control over, we can easily and quickly change our situations for the better. One day at a time and tomorrow has its own trouble and will take care of itself. Let us not waste time and energy on things that are beyond us and out of our control such as other people’s attitude and natural situations.

Act first. Feel later. Sometimes we simply do not feel like doing things; or going to work; or eating healthy; or doing the correct or right thing we KNOW we must do. One of the best ways to get you motivated is to simply take that good action you know you should take and keep your attention off feeling or not feeling. If it is exercising to lose that weight, go for even that ten-minute walk. If it is reading a book, simply read for five minutes. It is common for motivation to follow action, so stop waiting for motivation before you take action. Once you take

the first step or a few steps, you will feel motivated to keep going.

Break your big goals into smaller goals. Depending on your ability to focus, it might be necessary to break up the goal into smaller chunks that last between two weeks to 8 weeks.

This way your brain can experience success and logically see a positive long-term outcome. This will also curb procrastination, because as humans, we tend to procrastinate if the path looks look long and challenging. So try breaking bigger goals into smaller, more manageable ones.

Remember, at the end of the day, no one is going to be doing your life for you. The life you are holding in your hands is yours! Live it and God is with you to help you and support you.

Second part of this piece to follow in next article! Thank you.

On MPs double salary allegations: cont’d from pg. 43 from being sued for defamation. So how on earth then would the MPs try to invokeparliamentary privilege in criminal prosecutions under the Theft Act? Clearly, they were seeking to hide behind the parliamentary privilege, which in my view, was an abuse of the privilege.

But despite their earlierrefuge in the parliamentary privilege, the judge found them guilty and sentenced them into prison. Their sentences ranged from 18 months to 12 months.

It isworth emphasising that the modern understanding of parliamentary privilege relates to immunity from litigation for words spoken in theHouse of Commons. And more so it has a wider historical meaning, encapsulated in the evolution of British constitution which can be open to legal interpretation.

The origins of parliamentary privilege The parliamentary privilege can be traced back to the English Civil War when Parliament was fighting for the right to self-governance and independencefrom the monarchy. However, it was not until 1689 when the Bill of Rights established the rights of parliament after the so-called Glorious Revolutionthat it became enshrined in law.

Take, for example, Article 9 of the Bill of Rights states that “the freedom of speech and debates or proceedings in parliament ought not to be impeachedor questioned in any court or place out of Parliament”.

Back then, the law was subject to the whims and caprices of the King. Suffice it to state that it was the interference from the sovereign that Parliamentsought to rid itself. Parliament held MPs to account by its own strict laws which ran side by side with the criminal and civil courts. Needless to stress that back then, the rule of parliament was absolute.

Take, for example, since 1979, not less than 10 MPs have been sent to prison, usually for not paying fines incurred when they were conducting politicalprotests in Northern Ireland.

However, parliamentary privilege still grants MPs immunity from being arrested on civil matters within the grounds of the Palace of Westminster.

A few years ago, the MP, Damian Green, was arrested by the London Metropolitan Police at his constituency home on suspicion of “aiding and abetting misconductin public office” and “conspiring to commit misconduct in a public office”.

However, after the MP Damian’s arrest in December 2008, the Speaker of Parliament back then, Michael Martin, explained his actions to the Commons, tellingMPs that parliamentary privilege has never prevented the operation of the criminal law.

He alluded to the Joint Committee on Parliamentary Privilege which in its report in 1999, said that the precincts of the House are not and should not be”a haven from the law (Source: independent.co.uk).”

We should, however, not lose sight of the fact that in most jurisdictions, the laws are administered equitably. Indeed, everyone could face the laws without any recourse to their status in society.

Take, for example, a few years ago, the Pakistani Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, was forced to resign following his disqualification from office by thecountry’s top court.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan dismissed Mr Sharif after a damning corruption probe into his family wealth.

Are the rules of parliamentary privilege changed?

The investigative panel claimed his family was unable to account for its vast wealth, leading to the court to order a criminal investigation (guardian.co.uk, 28/07/2017).

Apparently, the twilight of the monarchy allowed Parliament to surrender some of its jurisdiction to the courts. Consequently, MPs accused of criminaloffences are no longer dealt with by the authorities of the House of Commons and instead face the full force of the law.

In sum, the parliamentary privilege is archaic and inequitable. So let us do away with it. Let us amend or expunge the seemingly irrational provision and replace it with innovative and expedient law.

K. Badu, UK. k.badu2011@gmail.com

The Ghanaian News May 2021 51

Lifestyle

This column is devoted to answering your questions on health and discusions of diseases which are common among the African Canadians.

Herbal supplements: What to know before you buy Herbal supplements aren’t right for everyone. Get the facts before you buy.

•

Dr David Y Twum-Barima Echinacea to prevent colds. Ginkgo to improve memory. Flaxseed to lower cholesterol. The list of herbal remedies goes on and on.

Herbal supplements, sometimes called botanicals, aren’t new. Plants have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. However, herbal supplements haven’t been subjected to the same scientific scrutiny and aren’t as strictly regulated as medications. For example, makers of herbal supplements don’t have to get approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before putting their products on the market.

Yet some herbal supplements — including products labeled as “natural” — have drug-like effects that can be dangerous. So it’s important to do your homework and investigate potential benefits and side effects of herbal supplements before you buy. And be sure to talk with your doctor, especially if you take medications, have chronic health problems, or are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Are herbal supplements safe?

•

Herbal supplements are regulated by Health Canada as drugs or as foods.

They fall under a category called dietary supplements. The rules for dietary supplements are as follows: •

Manufacturers don’t have to seek Health Canada approval before putting dietary supplements on the market. In addition, companies can claim that products address a nutrient deficiency, support health or are linked to body functions — if they have supporting research and they include a disclaimer that Health Canada hasn’t evaluated the claim.

Manufacturers must follow good manufacturing practices to ensure that supplements are processed consistently and meet quality standards.

These regulations are intended to keep the wrong ingredients and contaminants, such as pesticides and lead, out of supplements, as well as make sure that the right ingredients are included in appropriate amounts.

Once a dietary supplement is on the market , Health Canada is responsible for monitoring its safety. If Health Canada finds a product to be unsafe, it can take action against the manufacturer or distributor or both, and may issue a warning or require that the product be removed from the market.

These regulations provide assurance that herbal supplements meet certain quality standards and that Health Canada can intervene to remove dangerous products from the market.

The rules do not, however, guarantee that herbal supplements are safe for anyone to use. Because many supplements contain active ingredients that have strong effects in the body, these products can pose unexpected risks. For example, taking a combination of herbal supplements or using supplements together with prescribed medications could lead to harmful, even life-threatening results.

For this reason, it’s important to talk with your doctor before using herbal supplements.

supplement: •

Contact the manufacturer. If you have questions about a specific product, call the manufacturer or distributor.

Ask to talk with someone who can answer questions, such as what data the company has to substantiate its products’ claims.

Who shouldn’t supplements?

If you don’t understand something on an herbal supplement’s label, ask your pharmacist or the distributor for an explanation. If you are not sure check with your doctor.

How do you know if herbal supplements’ claims are true?

Manufacturers of herbal supplements are responsible for ensuring that the claims they make about their products aren’t false or misleading and that they’re backed up by adequate evidence.

So be a smart consumer and do a little homework. Don’t just rely on a product’s marketing. Look for objective, research-based information to evaluate a product’s claims. To get reliable information about a particular

use

herbal

If you have health issues, it’s essential that you talk with your doctor before trying herbal supplements. In fact, in some high-risk situations, your doctor will likely recommend that you avoid herbal supplements altogether.

It’s especially important that you talk to your doctor before using herbal supplements if: •

You’re taking prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Some herbs can cause serious side effects when mixed with prescription and OTC drugs, such as aspirin, blood thinners , blood pressure or diabetes medications. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible interactions.

•

Pregnant or breast-feeding women should avoid herbal preparations at all costs.

Medications that may be safe for you as an adult may be harmful to your fetus or your breast-feeding infant. As a general rule, don’t take any medications — prescription, OTC or herbal — when you’re pregnant or breast-feeding unless your doctor approves.

•

People who are undergoing or have recently had surgery should avoid herbal preparations .

Many herbal supplements can affect the success of surgery. Some may decrease the effectiveness of anesthetics or cause dangerous complications, such as bleeding or high blood pressure. Tell your doctor about any herbs you’re taking or considering taking as soon as you know you need surgery.

How do you know what’s in an herbal supplement?

Health Canada requires that the following information be included on the labels of all herbal supplements: The name of the herbal supplement, the name and address of manufacturer or distributor; a complete list of ingredients — either in the Supplement Facts panel or listed beneath it; serving size, amount and active ingredient

Ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Even if they don’t know about a specific supplement, they may be able to point you to the latest medical guidance about its uses and risks.

As a rule of thumb, do not mix herbal medicines with prescription medications or medications that you buy over the counter. Be ware of herbal medications that claim to “Cure” different diseases. Remember, in life there are no short cuts and easy/quick fixes may lead to trouble.

52

The Ghanaian News May 2021

Around the World Sports Scene Chelsea beat Pep Guardiola’s Man City to win Champions League

with Jonathan Baah Annobil

Ghana rules ECOWAS 21km Marathon Ghana won the 21km marathon events at ECOWAS Athletics Championships Kaduna 2021.

Top runners, William Amponsah and Juliana Sakat Lariba won the men’s and women’s 21km marathon events respectively at the ECOWAS Athletics Championships in Kaduna, Nigeria.

Amponsah, from Agona Swedru and an old student of Swedru School of Business won the men’s 21 km half marathon in 1hour: 05:09 seconds while Sakat Juliana Lariba won the women’s 21 km half marathon in 1hour: 21:40.

Chelsea lift Champions League trophy Chelsea won the Champions League for the second time as a Kai Havertz goal secured a tense 1-0 victory over Manchester City in Saturday’s final in Porto, shattering Pep Guardiola’s dream of lifting the trophy for the third time, a decade on from his last triumph.

Havertz rounded Ederson to score three minutes before halftime at the Estadio do Dragao and the Chelsea players ran to the far end of the pitch to celebrate with the German.

Coach Thomas Tuchel, full of energy on the touchline just like his opposite number, punched the air in celebration, and later jumped with joy on the pitch after Chelsea held on for victory in the second half as City lost distraught skipper Kevin De Bruyne to injury.

The London club may have finished fourth in the Premier League, a huge 19 points behind the champions City, but this, remarkably, was their third win over Guardiola’s side in six weeks.

After winning the overall 2021 GNPC Ghana’s Fastest Human two weeks ago, Sarfo Ansah from the Ghana’s Fastest Human camp was sent to Nigeria by the Ghana Athletics Association to compete They shattered City’s hopes of a in their National championships this domestic treble when they triumphed past weekend. in the FA Cup semifinals in April and Suffice to say he blew everyone away then delayed their title celebrations there winning the Gold medal and run with victory in Manchester. a credible 10.24 seconds in a rainy weather. The championship was held Now, in a final watched by a limited crowd of just over 14 000 fans who created a raucous atmosphere, they have denied City the first Champions League crown they and Guardiola so crave.

Samuel Ekow Amoasi Appiah/ Modern GHANA

Ghana-born Brit Joshua Buatsi handed Frenchman Daniel Blenda Dos Santos a brutal round 4 KO to extend his unbeaten run to win the World Boxing Association (WBA) International Light Heavy Title.

In a post-fight interview, Joshua said “Most importantly, I want to thank God for the victory.”

“Secondly, I do hope he’s [Daniel Dos Santos] okay.”

He continued giving a hint of another fight as soon as possible

in Kaduna, Nigeria.

Sarfo Ansah won the double at the ECOWAS Athletics Championships He won the 200m gold in a time of 21.33 after grabbing the 100m gold.

“Bravo to him” says Reks Brobbey.

Sammy Heywood Okine/ Ghana Olympic Committee

Ghana to host 2021 African Goalball Championships

Joshua Buatsi wins WBA International Light Heavy Title

Joshua Buatsi (14-0, 12KOs) proved too strong for the Frenchman who was before the night unbeaten after 14 pro fights.

Sarfo Ansah shines in Nigeria

The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) Goalball has announced that Cape Coast, Ghana, will stage the 2021 African Championships from 6-10 December.

Since the first edition of the competition in 2016, it has been staged once in Algeria and twice in Egypt. This year will therefore be the first time that the Championships head to Ghana, and will also see the debut of the countries’ men’s and women’s teams.

Kari Raisanen, Chair of the IBSA Goalball Committee, said: “We believe the African Championships will be a fantastic end to this historic year, offering the chance to attract new interest to the sport in the region following the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

“Africa is a continent in which we have seen growth over the past decade, and we want to not only keep supporting teams to improve but also encourage new nations to start. As goalball celebrates its 75th birthday in 2021, we will be doing just that.

“We are confident that the Local Organising Committee, the Ghana Blind Sports Association, will organise a great competition that reflects the importance of the time it is being held.”

“We’ll be turnaround.”

back

[soon],

quick

Eric Kissi, President of the Ghana Blind Sports Association, said: “Ghana is committed to giving our utmost best in hosting a befitting Championship that The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) will make Ghana and all of Africa proud. All visiting countries are assured of and Friends of Boxing congratulate peaceful and successful Championships.”

Joshua Buatsi on becoming the New WBA International Light Heavyweight Around seven men’s and five women’s teams are expected to compete at the University of Cape Coast Sports Complex. champion.

Sammy Heywood ModernGhana sports

Okine/ At the last African Championships in Port Said, Egypt, in 2020, the Algerian men’s and women’s teams both took gold to secure their place at the Paralympics.

Cape Coast 2021 will be a qualifier for the 2022 IBSA Goalball World Championships in Hangzhou China, from 6-18 July. The top three teams in each gender will secure their tickets.

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

In 2021 IBSA Goalball is celebrating 75 years since it was invented by Austrian Hans Lorenzen and German Sepp Reindle in 1946. It is widely known as the original team sport for athletes with visual impairments.

To mark the occasion, activities will include the first World Goalball Day. The sport will also deliver a series of online sessions to spread awareness and knowledge of the game.

Philip Otuo/ Modern Ghana Sports

The Ghanaian News May 2021 53

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