'TFS' Twenty-twenty Vision

Ubiquitously long pall over the nation

By Anonymous

I have been sick, and I had to take an extended mental health break during the holiday season. I believe the doctor diagnosed my malady as TFS, more commonly known as Trump Fatigue Syndrome. The symptoms include bleary-eyed, exasperation, rising blood pressure, and irritability. I had to stop the insanity and ban myself from watching the news and political shows.

For better, but mainly worse, the Trump presidency casts a ubiquitously long pall over the nation. The man will not give us a well-earned break. The threat of war with Iran spoiled my revelry on the eve of a new year. Furthermore, he was still virtue active across all TV and social media platforms. He whined incessantly about the unfairness of the impeachment hoax and the usual cavalcade of lies and hyperbole.

People; TFS is real, and with the just-completed Senate hearings, I'm experiencing a relapse. We are waiting in vain for common sense, and truth to prevail; however, I fear we are heading for a constitutional train wreck. With Mitch McConnell pulling the strings of this craven caucus our wait for profiles, in courage and patriotism will be a long one.

Gun rights activists and white supremacists march in harmony in Richmond, Virginia, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day no less a word from our President.

Environmental laws that safeguard our air, water, and wetlands are being gutted.

Trump is the Pied Piper of climate change skepticism, blithely leading us into the abyss as Australia burns and Koalas run for their lives.

So depressing. My friends, the only cure for TFS is going to be at the ballot box in November. The road may be long. People may have to overcome foreign intervention, voter suppression, and perhaps even intimidation. The burden of preserving should not be taken lightly, defy TFS, and fight to end our long national nightmare.

International Monetary Fund (IMF)

Bio’s Government Wins Back IMF Confidence

By Sylvester Samba

A delegation from the IMF led by First Deputy Managing Director, Dr. David Lipton, had meetings with the President of Sierra Leone Julius Maada Bio, where the IMF Chief confirmed the Fund is pleased in support of the country. The two met at State House, in the capital Freetown, on Tuesday 28th January 2020. The visit served as a renewed partnership with the IMF.

Addressing the Director and his delegation, President Bio said his government worked very hard to restore a strong relationship with the IMF. The government had worked extremely hard to fight corruption, which was one of the main obstacles to development.

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President Julius Maada Bio, First Deputy Managing Director, Dr. David Lipton, and delegates

The main thrust of our economic management has been fiscal consolidation. Mobilize enough revenue and also manage our expenditure. President Bio noted that his government had chosen Human Capital Development, which included providing free quality education, health service, and agriculture, as the thrust of its development process.

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President Julius Maada Bio, and Dr. David Lipton

In response, Dr. Lipton expressed appreciation to the government for the hospitality accorded him and his delegation, adding that they had a shared perspective with the government on the situation in the country. He said that his meetings with school pupils in the country showed their eagerness to learn, saying that that was an indication of Sierra Leone`s tremendous potentials. Dr. Lipton indicated, his delegation was in the country to help offer advice and guidance and to also help the government in its fiscal consolidation as part of their partnership with the government. Adding that they were impressed with the government`s focus on human capacity building.

Dr. David Lipton assumed the position of First Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on September 1st, 2011. On March 28th, 2016, Dr. Lipton was reappointed for a second five-year term, beginning September 1st, 2016. Before coming to the IMF, Dr. Lipton was a Special Assistant to President Clinton and served as Senior Director, International Economic Affairs at the National Economic Council and National Security Council at the White House.

The Minister of Finance, Mr. Jacob Jusu Saffa has regarded the recent visit by the First Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Dr. David Lipton as a manifestation that Sierra Leone is on track on its economic transformation trajectory. There are over 50 countries in Africa and to decide on which country to visit, always raises big debates in the IMF. So for a country to be selected, it could mean two things; one, you are doing very well, two, you are on track, and they want you to stay on track.

Highlighting the challenges they are facing as a government, he said, 30-35 percent of government revenues are used to settle government debt or arrears, noting that the depth of the problems they inherited is enormous.

Sierra Leone Makes Remarkable Progress In Global Corruption Ranking

Tansparency International Corruption Perception Index (TI-CPI) reveals

By Sylvester Samba

The country's Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has assured Sierra Leoneans of its relentless determination to ensure the country continues to perform favorably in national, sub-regional, regional, and global anti-corruption governance indices. The recent assurance made after Transparency International Corruption Perception Index (TI-CPI) reveals for the first time, in more than five years, Sierra Leone ranked under 120.

The Corruption Perception Index (CPI), released on Thursday 23rd January 2020, is a clear indication that the thirty-three (33) points scored is the highest the country ever achieved since its inclusion in the TI index. Sierra Leone now leads sixty-one (61) countries in the global campaign against corruption. More than 28 African countries; Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, Togo, Kenya, among others.

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Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Francis Ben Kaifala Esq, and His Excellency, Brig. (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio

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Diaspora National Development Award 2019

The country Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) disclosed that Sierra Leone moved ten (10) places upwards in Transparency International’s Global Corruption Ranking...129 in the year 2018 to 119 out of 180 countries surveyed in the 2019 TI-CPI. The country also increased its score from a stagnant thirty (30) points in 2016, 2017, and 2018, to thirty-three (33) in 2019, mark a three (3) points gain scoring above the sub-Saharan average of 32, the Commission noted.

This year’s report reveals that “Sub-Saharan Africa’s performance paints a bleak picture of inaction against corruption.

A staggering number of countries are showing little or no improvement in tackling corruption. The report also suggests that more than two-thirds of countries – along with many of the world’s most advanced economies – are stagnating or showing signs of backsliding in their anti-corruption efforts. Nonetheless, Sierra Leone performed better than the average score in Sub-Saharan Africa, said the ACC.

The CPI is an annual survey indicator used by TI, the global civil society organization leading the fight against corruption, to assess perceived levels of public sector corruption across the world.

Within the past two years, Sierra Leone has increased its score in the ‘Control of Corruption’ Indicator in the Millennium Challenge Corporation Scorecard, from forty-nine percent (49%) in 2017, to seventy-nine (79%) percent in 2019, making thirty percent (30%) upwards. By that report, Sierra Leone is among the top ten performers in our income category.

Similarly, Sierra Leone has also scored high in other global and regional anti-corruption rankings. In the Global Corruption Barometer of 2018, the country is ranked 3rd out of thirty-five (35) African Countries surveyed on “Government’s Effectiveness in the Fight against Corruption.” In the Afro-Barometer 2018, fifty-four (54%) of Sierra Leoneans agreed that the government is performing “very well” in the fight against corruption.

Idris Elba Arrived In His Father´s Native Sierra Leone For The First Time

Elba’s visit to Sierra Leone had been long-awaited

By Theo Edwards

A native of Sierra Leone, Idris Elba, arrived in Freetown for the first time. Elba was born and raised in London; his mother, Eve, is from Ghana and his father, Winston, from Sierra Leone, where he has expressed interest in investing in eco-tourism.

Idris Elba arrived in Sierra Leone on Wednesday, December 18, 2019, where he is due to receive Sierra Leone citizenship and celebrate Christmas with the President, Julius Maada Bio, according to government sources.  Elba planned to visit Sherbro Island renowned for its pristine tropical beaches. The country hopes to revitalize its tourism industry. And, with Mr. Idris Elba as the country's Brand Ambassador, he brings with it new life and vitality.

A native of Sierra Leone, Idris Elba, arrived in Freetown for the first time. Elba was born and raised in London; his mother, Eve, is from Ghana and his father, Winston, from Sierra Leone, where he has expressed interest in investing in eco-tourism. Mr. Elba’s visit to Sierra Leone had been long-awaited.

During a meeting at the State Lodge on Hill Station, President Bio said that Mr. Elba’s visit to Sierra Leone had been long-awaited, saying that he could feel his burning desire to come back home to be welcomed by his country people. He said that the country had gone through a lot with a scarred image, which needed a conscientious effort from everyone to change that perception and create a new narrative.

Idrissa Akuna Elba OBE is an actor, writer, producer, musician, DJ, rapper, and singer. Nickname DJ Big Driis (Idris) was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in the 2016 New Year Honors for his services to drama. He is best known for his roles in Marvel franchise films such as "Thor" and "The Avengers." Others include Stringer Bell in the HBO series The Wire, DCI John Luther in the BBC One series Luther, and Nelson Mandela in the biographical film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. In 2018 was named People magazine sexiest man alive.

Friday 20 December 2019, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio issued the British Hollywood actor, and musician, Idris Elba, with a Sierra Leonean Diplomatic Passport and pronounced him a Brand Ambassador for the small resource-rich West African nation.

Friday 20 December 2019, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio issued the British Hollywood actor, and musician, Idris Elba, with a Sierra Leonean Diplomatic Passport and pronounced him a Brand Ambassador for the small resource-rich West African nation.

Receiving the passport, Idris Elba said that he was honored and thankful for the opportunity to become a citizen of his father’s country, noting that it was an honor for his family. He said he always wanted to come to Sierra Leone, adding, his career afforded him and his family the ability to rebrand the country.

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Last Updated June 19, 2023

Idris Elba passionately appeals for young Sierra Leoneans to exercise 'None Violence' during the presidential and parliamentary election slated for June 24, 2023.

Idris Elba passionately appeals for young Sierra Leoneans to exercise 'None Violence' during the general election for president and parliament that will take place on Saturday, June 24, 2023.

Idris Elba has called for a peaceful general election in Sierra Leone, which will take place on Saturday, June 24, 2023. 

"This election, please let it be peaceful," he said in a message in Pidgin English - 'other African nations and the world will be watching us.' On the same day, the Commonwealth Observer Group in Sierra Leone, led by former Nigerian Vice-President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, called for peaceful elections to reflect; the will of the people.

Elba reminded young Sierra Leoneans that they have the 'power' in this vote and that if the country is destroyed due to violence, it will be down to us Sierra Leoneans to have to build it back up again.

The votes on Saturday will be the country's sixth presidential vote since a military takeover in 1992. It will see the incumbent, President Julius Madaa Bio of the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP), go up against Dr. Samura Kamara of the All People's Congress (APC) _the main opposition party. 

There have been arrests of critical opposition voices in the run-up to the general election.

Ackee and Saltfish: A Jamaican navigates the taste of home

Jamaicans have transformed a history of pain into delicious food, but what if you are allergic to your national dish?

Source: This post is from aljazeera: By Summer Eldemire

"Oh my goodness, that banana is green, how can you eat that?" asks my uncle.

It is 7am and the banana I am about to put into my smoothie is not technically green. But it's also not so ripe that it's brown, the way we Jamaicans usually eat them. After 10 years living away from my home, I have gotten used to eating the barely ripe tasteless bananas that grace the shelves of Key Foods in Brooklyn, New York, where I live for most of the year.

Each time I return home for vacation, my family and friends giggle at all the "foreign" habits I have picked up. Green banana? A runny egg? Almond milk? My cousins shake their heads as I make myself breakfast.

We Jamaicans are an exclusive set of people - citizenship is not something that is automatically renewed, it is a relationship you must fight for. You earn it by keeping up with the latest dances, the new slang, and displaying your loyalty by hunting down Jamaican food wherever you are and loudly despising all other cuisines. Take your eyes off the culture for a second and you will find yourself left behind.

To read the rest of the article, click here.

School Daze

Miss Jeffries was my first crush

By Jose` Manuel Guzman

As I grow older, I look back with increasing fondness during my formative years in school. I owe a debt I can’t possibly repay to the teachers who inspired my curiosity, creativity, and fire to succeed. Indeed, Miss Jeffries was my first crush. This statuesque beauty lit the fuse of enlightenment within me by opening my eyes to literature, culture, and faraway exotic places. She inspired me to become an educator and spread the gift of knowledge she so graciously bestowed upon me.

Today, the mission remains the same to inspire young minds to reach for their goals. For some, that will mean a college degree, and for others, it may mean a job that will hopefully provide enough security on which to live. But the journey to help these young souls is drastically different than it was when I was a young student or a novice teacher. Educators today are under increasing pressure. Teachers are still working in an underpaid and underappreciated profession.

Most teachers hold advanced degrees, yet still, are not compensated with the starting salary comparable to their education. As a result, the teaching profession isn’t as attractive as it used to be as an older generation of teachers retires.

The need for a new generation of teachers to carry on the torch will be significant. But, even as a veteran teacher, I have difficulty suggesting the profession that I love and appreciate those pursuing education as a career goal.

The idea of summers off (without pay) and paid holidays is no longer the carrot. The realities of the stress of politicians, businessmen, and school administrators trying to climb up the ladder to “get out of the classroom” make the profession less desirable. This quite troubling with dire consequences especially for those children trapped in disadvantaged communities.

Teachers do not get the respect they truly deserve. For many teachers, dispensing wisdom is only a fraction of their extensive portfolio. Dedicated teachers are also social workers, therapists, and even sacrifice financially to aid needy students or school districts with limited funds. The reward for such efforts has been layoffs, larger class sizes, and a minuscule increase in salary. The teacher’s strikes in Chicago and Los Angeles highlighted these issues as educators strive to attain fair resources and wages.

On campus, the pressures are no less acute. Standardized testing and its increased demands for accountability have added to the pain for as we know not all school districts are financially equitable. Add to the equation feckless bureaucrats with limited classroom experience and the litigious and indifferent parents, the morale of educators has plummeted. Additionally, the increasing spectre of school violence and the inability to be allowed to discipline unruly students are all factors that have led to teacher malaise and burnout.

I love my job despite the drawbacks. Teaching remains one of the noblest of all professions. God knows the majority of us are not in it for the money. We get intrinsic joy from our student’s successes. I get a fantastic feeling when I run into old students who share tales of academic and professional triumphs and remember me fondly. As well, those have fallen upon hard times and reflect on the advice that I gave earlier about the importance of earning an education. The rewards are not immediate, but we do make a difference.

Our nation needs to reinvest in our kids and educational infrastructure. The future depends on a highly skilled and educated workforce to meet the challenges of a global economy. We need your support, together, we will claim the future one graduate at a time.

6 Skills Needed for All Jobs Regardless of Field

And your young adult needs each one of them to thrive in the workforce

This post is from NBC Parent Toolkit.

You have likely heard about “soft skills” before. But what are they? Sometimes referred to as “21st-century skills,” “interpersonal skills,” or “applied skills,” they are the skills that are non-technical or specific to a certain job. They are the skills that help you think, communicate with people, and reflect on your experiences. Basically, your young adult needs them to thrive in the workforce. Career coach Jane Horowitz says the basis of her coaching practice is “hire for attitude, train for skills,” and she sees will and drive as being the greatest determinants of young adults getting hired.

“We hear it time and time again, it’s the soft skills,” says Terri Tchorzynski, 2017 National School Counselor of the Year. “That’s what allows you to keep the job. Employers can hire our students and train them, but if they don't have the soft skills, it's really hard for them to stay employed."

According to the Harvard University “Pathways to Prosperity Project” study in 2011, U.S. employers are increasingly seeing students graduate from college unequipped to survive in the 21st century workforce. Specifically, they are “deficient” in skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and communication. Bruce Tulgan, founder and CEO of Rainmaker Thinking and expert and author on young people in the workplace, has been tracking the generational change in the workplace since 1993. According to Tulgan (and many other experts and employers), there is a gap in soft skills from previous generations to the generation entering the workforce today.

To read the rest of the article, click here.

A Plea From Planet Earth

On fire

By Ola George & Theo Edwards

It is the very nature of entropy to lead to an eventual state of decay. I have survived the millennia and the ravages of time. Dinosaurs, empires, and false Gods have long turned to dust. I have provided life and relief for entire species yet; mankind you are doing your best to destroy me and therefore yourselves.

My Amazon is a blazing inferno–its opulent forest exploited for insatiable desire for wealth. Polar Bears are growling as the ice caps melt and the glaciers vanish. Sea levels are rising, putting your coastal cities in jeopardy. Hurricanes like Dorian, Katrina will be remembered in time as mere Childs play.

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Driven by hubris, and corruption, many of you deny the evidence of your own eyes

Mankind, you poison my oceans with toxic chemicals and mountains of plastic, whales beach themselves to die unable to live in their natural environment. Air and land are contaminated. Poisons seep into soil and water supplies. Record high temperatures across the globe portend serious issues ahead as portions of your world become uninhabitable. Therefore the consequences will be disruption and mass migration as resources become scarce.

Mankind the time to act is now, put your collective hearts and minds on this task of saving us all.

You can be heroes for this generation and countless others that follow. Or, be known as an "indolent" species who did nothing while their planet died.

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Teenage climate change activist Greta Thunberg on Monday opened the United Nations Climate Action Summit with an angry condemnation of world leaders for failing to take strong measures to combat climate change. Thunberg, visibly emotional, said in shaky but stern remarks at the opening of the summit that the generations that have polluted the most have burdened her and her generation with the extreme impacts of climate change.

The Edge Of Darkness

We have seen mass carnage in California, Texas, and Ohio roared xenophobic hatred

By Jose` Manuel Guzman

One of the proudest days of my life was the day I became an American citizen. I pledged allegiance to my newly adopted homeland, and, with a multitude of others, I basked in the shared reflective glory of that beautiful day. In my mind's eye, that memory would remain forever untarnished.

Enter Donald J. Trump.

We have a President who is entirely too comfortable trotting out racist tropes while pandering to a white nationalist agenda. People of color have become the designated villains. Immigrants, legal or not, is now the ‘Other,” not American. Baltimore and other racially diverse cities have derisively labeled, “infested.”

Four congressional women of color have been the target of Trump's race-baiting venom. The reference of America; Love it or leave it and “Send her back,” about one of the congresswomen who were not US-born. Minories and refugees dehumanized as evidenced by their often brutally harsh treatment at the southern border.

Immigrants are the lifeblood of America, as we are stronger because of diversity. The day I became a US citizen, I was keenly aware of the collective joy in the room, and, the prospect of new opportunities.

Trump has betrayed the idealism that is truly exceptional. The racist vitriol being injected in American body politics has real consequences. Minorities and people of color are uneasy as hate crimes increase. Kids and adult is being told, “to go back to your country.”

In her memoir, ”Becoming” former First Lady Michelle Obama is unforgiving in the fact that TRUMPS WILD “Birther” rhetoric placed the lives of her family in mortal danger. The unvarnished bigotry of Trump is a clarion call to those who would commit acts of violence in his name.

Racism and fear cynically being exploited for political gain. However, in this scenario, the soul of the nation becomes collateral damage. Unbridled hate will unravel the unique American mosaic, for most of us, 2020 can’t come soon enough. Shame on the political toadies, and societal leaders, who complicit in Trump's racism by nature of their deafening silence. America will survive this current maelstrom with renewed hope for all its people.

In the past weeks, we have seen mass carnage in California, Texas, and Ohio roared xenophobic hatred. Trump has to know his words have consequences, but in a strange twist of fate, he might very well unite the country he sought to rip apart.

Women In The Crosshairs

Reproductive rights

By Angela Brooks

Women's rights as an issue will be an integral part of next years presidential campaign. Roe v Wade has been a matter of settled jurisprudence for generations of women. However, in recent times the debate has been resurrected as a cultural wedge issue.

The deadly game of attacking our reproductive rights and impacting access to healthcare has become political food for conservative Republicans in red states. Alabama and Georgia are just the latest states to institute draconian anti-abortion laws currently being challenged in the courts.

Alabama Judicial System

Georgia Supreme Court

The health of women should never be politicized. A life and death decisions about one's health are as deeply personal as it gets. Restricting access to safe and legal abortion would lead us into a time warp of back street practitioners and assorted quacks.

For the longest time, conservative ideologues have waged war on women's health with scant regard for real-life consequences. Minority women suffer high mortality rates. Groups such as Planned Parenthood offer a myriad of services other than abortions. Preventive cancer screenings and so much more often in underserved communities.

Women have vested interest in next year’s election. If Trump wins, he continues to pack the Supreme Court. And women's rights truly will be eroded.

A Closer Look At The Suspensions of African American Students

EDLD Dissertation

Dr. Theodosia M. Edwards

University of Maryland Eastern Shore Education Leadership Program

April 2018

The researcher concluded that while the suspension rates of students increased at the school and for African American students between 2012-2014, the trend since 2014 has been a continuing decline in the suspension of all students and African American students. The researcher also found that factors such as school and community culture, the lack of student interventions, and a coherent restorative practices model, among other factors, have all influenced the suspension rates of African American students.

Dr. Theodosia M. Edwards

Research Study: A Closer Look At The Suspensions of African American Students

“UNDERSTANDING FACTORS, POLICIES AND, PRACTICES IN A SOUTH BALTIMORE SCHOOL: A CLOSER LOOK AT THE SUSPENSIONS OF AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENTS
”

— Dr. Theodosia M. Edwards

A focus on providing resources through mental and counseling supports, and ongoing professional development for staff, students, teachers, and community members would help all stakeholders to take ownership of student behaviors and would help to increase the outcomes of African American students while reducing the need for out of school suspensions.

Power and Industrialization Drive

One district One factory policy

By Benson Afful

Akufo-Addo - President, The Republic of Ghana

The Nana Akufo-Addo’s government has given assurance to industry and manufacturers its determination in stabilizing electricity supply as the government continues to implement proactive measures to solve the current crisis.

President Akufo-Addo’s administration has set an ambitious district industrialization agenda, known as the One district One factory policy, which his government intends to achieve to move Ghana from one that exports raw materials to a value-added industrialized economy.

Key areas need critical attention if the government could meet this target bringing factories to all 216 districts across the country’s 16 administrative regions is a cheaper and reliable energy source.

The government has already released GH¢465 million for the commencement of the project. It has also released GH¢256 million for the revamping of 100 private commercially viable and distressed companies throughout the country. Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta during the 2019 Budget Presentation in Parliament stated government has so far disbursed GH¢227 million as a stimulus package to support various distressed companies, and that additional funds will be disbursed to support other distressed companies next year. 79 factories in 9 regions of the country should be at various stages of construction or operation under the '1D1F' scheme is expected.

Industrialization agenda

Ghana has not had it easy when it comes to the cost industry pay for a power outage. The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) which conducted a study on the impact of the four-year power crisis that hit Ghana revealed that 885 small and medium-sized manufacturing firms in Accra, Tema, Kumasi, and Sekondi-Takoradi lost GH¢250 million within the period. The productivity of these firms fell as many were using generators as an alternative source of power.

Additionally, the power outages, to a large extent, led to a 10 percent fall in monthly productivity of those firms, with as many as 55 of such businesses folding up in the four locations of the country.

Ghana’s economy, like any other economy in the world, depends on local production and export goods and services, thus industrialization. For many industries in the West African country, energy supply is a major challenge. Players in the sector have been complaining about the intermittent power outage they sometimes experience. A situation that in the past cost many job layoffs.

The Nana Akufo Addo’s government has given assurance to industry and manufacturers its determination in stabilizing electricity supply as the government continues to implement proactive measures to solve the current situation.

The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) in a communiqué after its National Council Retreat this year said they are resolved to continue making input into the electricity tariff negotiations with the country’s utility regulator, Public Utility Regulatory Commission, and appropriate agencies to ensure competitive tariffs for Industry.

The industry is expecting reliability and efficiency in service delivery and competitive tariffs from the new company—Power Distribution Service (PDS) taken operations in the distribution network in southern Ghana. AGI recognizes the need for a tariff structured in a manner the service providers can recover cost to remain viable.

Ghana is in the category of countries with high energy cost in the sub-region and for the industry to remain competitive industry sector players have called on the government to review the electricity tariff.

It is therefore right to say that a high cost of energy leads to a high cost of production; and will subsequently make Ghana unattractive for the setting up of factories thus generating a consistent increase in imports. This explains why locally-produced goods more expensive than the same imported goods in spite of the high duty charges at our various ports of entry.

UNIDO to boost industrial development

The government, in terms of urgency, must explore other cost-effective forms of energy like solar, bio-energy, nuclear, and wind energy to enhance Ghana’s business destination for West Africa.

Ghana’s total installed generator capacity at the end of 2016 was 3,795 MW with proportions as follows; 57.8 percent thermal, 41.6 percent hydro and 0.6 percent renewable.

Most thermal facilities run on natural gas (a cheaper fuel source compared to liquid fuels) as the primary fuel source, with the exception CENIT Power Plant and the Karpowership power plant, which depend solely on liquid fuels (LCO/DFO and HFO respectively). Makes natural gas supply very crucial for the effective operation of Ghana’s electricity sector. The West African Gas Pipeline transporting natural gas from Nigeria, is the major supplier of natural gas for generating electricity until the commissioning of the Atuabo gas processing facility, owner of the Ghana Gas Company in 2015. Gas supply has not been reliable with the Nigerians citing non-payment of debt as the major reason.

The Atuabo gas processing facility is capable of supplying up to 150 Mscf per day to the western power generation enclave at the Aboadze thermal facility with supplies from the Jubilee oil fields. Plans are underway to process natural gas from the Tweneboa, Enyenra, Ntomme (TEN) oil fields to augment supplies from the Jubilee fields and make Ghana self-sufficient. However, the Tema thermal power enclave still depends on natural gas supply through the WAGP.

The Atuabo gas processing facility is capable of supplying up to 150 Mscf/d (abbreviation for a thousand standard cubic feet per day, a common measure for volume of gas) to the western power generation enclave at the Aboadze thermal facility with supplies from the Jubilee oil fields. Plans are underway to process natural gas from the Tweneboa, Enyenra, Ntomme (TEN) oil fields to augment supplies from the Jubilee fields and make Ghana self-sufficient. However, the Tema thermal power enclave still depends on natural gas supply through the WAGP.

Huge investment to increase the power-generation capacity of the country. More power plants have also been constructed to increase the supply of power in the country. These include Takoradi Thermal Power Plant, Takoradi T3 Plant, Tema T1 Power Plant, Mines Reserve Plant, Tema T2 Plant, and the Kpone Thermal Plant. Notwithstanding the efforts made by successive governments to expand power generation capacity, the country is still far from becoming power sufficient.

The government of Ghana is still pursuing policies to improve the shortcomings in the power sector.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCA) plans to invest a maximum of US$498 million in total to help transform the power sector of Ghana and also stimulate private investment over the next five years. The objective is to create a power sector, which is financially viable, and be able to meet the current needs as well as the future needs for both businesses and households.

Banking, Real Estate & Technology, Headquartered in Rwanda

Mara Group & Mara Foundation

Africa Reach – An African company with investments and operations in 25 countries across the continent

By Theo Edwards

Made in Africa

The first high specification, affordable smartphone manufactured in Africa, Mara Phones is committed to enhancing and enriching the lives of the people of Africa. Manufacturing in Africa enables job creation and also making the smartphone more affordable to all, contributing to business and development on the continent. Manufactured in Africa, ready for the global market!

Established in 1996, Mara has grown from a small computer hardware trading firm in East Africa to a multi-sector group with investments and operations spanning 25 African countries and 3 continents.

Why Africa? “The Lion Awakes: Adventures in Africa’s Economic Miracle” by Ashish J. Thakkar is the true story of today’s Africa, one often overshadowed by the dire headlines. Traveling from his ancestral home in Uganda, East Africa, to the booming economy and (if chaotic) new democracies of West Africa, and down to the “Silicon Savannahs” of Kenya and Rwanda, Ashish J. Thakkar shows us an Africa that few Westerners are aware exists.

Mara’s technology ventures capitalize on the rapidly growing smartphone and internet markets creating a suite of platforms that are tailored locally.

“The rise of the African Middle Class is expected to fuel consumption growth. This will provide a considerable opportunity to invest and meet the burgeoning demand. McKinsey projects that, by the year 2030, the top 18 cities in sub-Saharan Africa will have a combined spending power of $1.3 trillion. Africa’s retail banking sector is projected to grow 40 percent by 2020” ~The Realities of Africa. Learn More.

The CBD and Cannabis Gold-rush

Marijuana legalization has crumbled across the US

Fmr. Speaker, John Boehner, an industry lobbyist

Visitors to the 2018 Home Garden Flower Show in Fryeburg learn about CBD oils from a vendor. (MARGARET MCKENZIE PHOTO)

Societal resistance to marijuana legalization has crumbled across the US. Cannabis! How times have changed. Once the province of tokers, back-alleys, and street hustlers gone mainstream. Fmr. Speaker of the House John Boehner is an industry lobbyist. Even domestic maven Martha Stewart has joined the fray.

For many cancer patients and others who suffer from a variety of maladies, medical marijuana is the only thing that mitigates pain and suffering.

CBD oil is the new wonder drug in the pain management fight. Touted as a cure-all for chronic pain the CBD industry has experienced phenomenal growth in recent years. Fancy designer boutiques offering a myriad of products are springing up everywhere. Despite skepticism from the healthcare professionals the CBD industry continues to boom. Viva Las Vegas!

Undoubtedly as one of the nation’s most popular vacation spots. Legalization of marijuana added strong economy with stores opening on and off “The Strip.” Gamble, watch a show and shop your favorite pot sundries with convenience.

With no expectations, I set out to find some CBD lotion for an arthritic aunt. I landed at “Planet Thirteen,” dubbed the “cannabis superstore.” I entered a slick and gleaming edifice replete with a state of the art sound system pumping out a droning techno beat. Well-heeled suited men and women and more casually dressed counterparts milled around sparkling glass displays cases. Astute sales reps patiently explained the pros and cons of a staggering array of products. Pot-infused beverages, candy, cakes, and coffees, etc. A sales rep told me construction had started on a dining area in anticipation of Nevada changing its laws. To serve pot-infused meals.

The experience was edifying and changed some of my preconceived notions about the industry.

The “S” Word and the Myth Of the Meritocracy

To my surprise people are actually shocked at the scope of the college admissions scandal

To twist a quote from Gordon Gekko

Too many who do not enjoy the lifestyle of the rich and famous, are basking in the glow of a brighter sun, the “American Nightmare." Inequality is baked into the system at all levels. Stagnant wages, rising healthcare, and college costs have squeezed the middle class severely. Consequently, the “American Dream“ has become a nightmare. In contrast, Wall Street, corporate America, highly paid CEO’s rake in record profits. Corporation like Amazon gets a hefty tax cut. Meanwhile "Joe Six-pack” is looking at reduced tax refunds.

With 2020 looming President Trump seeks to label Democrats as extremists and socialism a dirty word. Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are proud proponents of democratic socialism are any of their ideas worth merit “Medicare for all,” a “Green New Deal” to save the planet and create jobs. Free college tuition and making corporations pay their fair share so we can solve social issues and repairing our decaying infrastructure. Shocking!

To twist a quote from Gordon Gekko. “Greed is not good.” Surely we can strike a balance between unfettered capitalism and giving people a fair shot at a better life. The admissions scandal reminds us that life is not always fair and too many socialism may not sound like a bad idea after all.

SPOTLIGHT: Africa From Inside Ghana

VIDEO: COURTESY: Ghana Investment Promotion Center (GIPC)

Ghana's wealth of resources, democratic political system, and a dynamic economy, makes it one of Africa's leading lights.

Gaining the world's confidence with a peaceful political transition and a grounded and firm commitment to democracy has helped in expediting Ghana's growth in foreign direct investment (FDI).

Ghana has attracted the attention of well-known international businesses, investing in all sectors of the economy. All these investors have come to Ghana because of the country conducive social, political and economic environment in which they can invest, grow and be successful.

Facial Recognition Technology

The future of air travel!

There will be no more juggling with IDs, Passports, and bags at check-in and digging through pockets or smartphones to show your boarding pass. Instead of the boarding pass, bring your smile to the airport – your face will be your boarding pass at every step of the process. Though privacy concern about the implications of widespread adoption of biometric security –this is the future of air travel!

The future of air travel! VIDEO IMAGE CREDIT: NBC News

Wakandan ​Dreams

The phenomenal success of “Black Panther” underscored the point that Hollywood must continue on a path towards all-inclusive diversity.

However, the most salient question for me as I the marveled at the technological might of mythical Wakanda. I can’t help but ponder, where would Africa be today had it been unfettered by the burden of its colonial past.

There have been missteps. Civil wars, greed, and autocratic despots have littered the landscape. However, if history has shown us anything it’s that the road to freedom, progress, and equality is never easy.

For a continent not too far removed from its colonial past, it would seem that Africa is due credit for the progress it has made. There is cause for optimism. With its stunning array of bustling metropolises, diversity, natural resources, and human capital, Africa undercuts the claim of a retrograde US President who described them as “shithole countries.”

The future can belong to Africa. However, for this bright new dawn to emerge, strong foundations must be laid. First, the rule of law must be adhered to, and the civil rights of all citizens must be respected.

Next, corruption and nepotism must be stamped out. Furthermore, governments must make a genuine attempt to meet the basic needs of their citizenry. These needs include equitable access to educational and economic opportunity. Also, improving healthcare and clean water access would help to ameliorate concerns of many. Natural resources should be harvested for the benefit of all and not the privileged or corrupt few. Finally, to avoid civil unrest, a cohesive sense of nationalism should be promoted at the expense of ethnic and religious loyalty.

Wakandan ​Dreams

By Ola George

The potential of Africa is limitless and with astute progressive leadership, perhaps then “Wakandan” dreams will become a stunning reality.