Welcoming participants, the leadership of GPRTU Ho Branch 8 stated that the awards ceremony was instituted to motivate members to maintain professionalism, discipline, and unity within the union.

Award Categories and Winners

Awards were presented in three main categories:

1. Best Driver of the Year
This award recognises a driver who demonstrated safe and responsible driving, discipline, respect for traffic regulations, good customer relations, and punctuality.
The Best Driver of the Year award went to Mr. Narh Kwadjo, who has served the station diligently for 30 years. He was presented with a deep freezer.

2. Best Porter of the Year
This category honours a porter who has shown dedication, honesty, respect for passengers, and good cooperation with drivers and branch leadership.
The award was won by Mr. Prosper Agbevor, who received a 43-inch television set.

3. Long-Serving Porter Award
This award was presented to appreciate loyalty and continuous service over the years.
The Long-Serving Porter Award was won by Mr. Manfred Addor, who was presented with a fridge.

Chairman’s Remarks

Addressing the media, the Chairman of GPRTU Ho Branch 8, Mr. Francis Aba, also, the Welfare chairman of GPRTU, explained that the primary aim of the awards ceremony is to motivate and inspire drivers, porters, and all staff to give off their best in service delivery.

He noted that the selection of awardees was based on how members relate with passengers, colleagues, and the branch office. He further revealed that the union is working closely with the Ghana Police Service to enforce road safety, especially during the festive season, with police patrols maintaining security around the Ho main station.

Mr. Aba also disclosed that arrangements have been made with GPRTU Branch 8 Madina to ensure that passengers are not stranded during the Christmas festivities. He emphasized that special attention would be given to students on vacation to ensure smooth travel.

He advised passengers to avoid pressuring drivers to speed, remain vigilant, patient, and cooperate with drivers to ensure safe journeys.

TUC Speaks on Fare Hikes

The Volta Regional Secretary of the Transport Union Congress (TUC), Madam Edith Abla Amenuvor Afenu, addressed concerns about possible fare increases during the Christmas season.

She stressed that drivers under the TUC are expected to adhere strictly to approved transport fares, and any driver who increases fares illegally will face sanctions. She urged passengers not to compromise and report any misconduct. According to her, public education is ongoing to ensure passengers are well informed about approved fares.

Madam Afenu added that although the union faces some challenges, there remains a cordial relationship between the transport unions and government.

Goodwill Messages and Safety Advice

Goodwill messages were delivered on behalf of the National Insurance Commission (NIC), MTTD, NRSA, DVLA, and TUC.

A representative of the NIC revealed that statistics from insurance institutions indicate a decline in road accidents in the Volta Region. He assured drivers that the NIC is ready to address insurance-related challenges but urged them to ensure that all vehicle documents are valid and up to date. He also encouraged vigilance during and after the Christmas festivities.

The MTTD regional commander, Superintendent Benedicta Akpene Ansah, appealed to drivers to remain alert and law-abiding throughout the festive season, while the DVLA representative cautioned drivers against dealing with middlemen for license renewal, advising them to visit DVLA offices directly within one to two months before license expiry.

Other speakers urged drivers to conduct themselves diligently to ensure the safety of passengers and the general public during the festive season.

<p>The post GPRTU Ho Branch 8 Honours Outstanding Workers at 2025 Awards Ceremony first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

“As President, my overriding priority is people-centered development. Every national project must translate into real benefits for local communities, jobs for our youth, opportunities for entrepreneurs, and an improved quality of life for Ghanaian families,” he said.

A Modern, Integrated City

The Oxygen City project, covering 168 acres of land, is being developed by TDC Ghana Limited in partnership with the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources. The project will feature multi-storey two- and three-bedroom apartments, modern road networks, street lighting, proper drainage and sewage systems, as well as reliable water and electricity supply.

President Mahama explained that part of the land has been allocated under a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement for the development of a four-star hotel, a specialist hospital, shopping malls, a food and entertainment centre, and recreational facilities including a golf course.

The proposed specialist hospital is expected to offer advanced treatment for kidney diseases, cancer, and other specialized medical conditions, positioning Ho as a health tourism destination that will attract patients from across Ghana, Togo, and beyond.

Affordable Housing for Ghanaian Workers

A significant component of the project will be undertaken by the State Housing Company Limited, which will construct additional residential units targeted at Ghanaian workers such as teachers, nurses, doctors, civil servants, and other public sector employees.

Under the housing scheme, beneficiaries will make an initial deposit of 10–25 percent, with the remaining cost spread over 15 to 20 years through salary deductions. President Mahama announced that the houses will be priced in Ghana cedis, not dollars, and financed at single-digit interest rates to ensure affordability.

“By the time you retire, you would have fully paid for your house and have a decent place to live,” the President stated.

Volta Region’s Clean Environment Praised

President Mahama commended the Volta Region for its environmental cleanliness, describing it as one of the cleanest regions in Ghana. He announced plans by the Ministry of Local Government to introduce awards for the cleanest regions and districts, expressing confidence that the Volta Region would consistently emerge as a top performer.

The President also revealed that Ho has been earmarked for an upgrade to Metropolitan Assembly status, in recognition of its rapid growth and strategic importance.

Sector Minister Endorses Vision

The sector minister praised TDC Ghana Limited for extending its mandate beyond the Tema Acquisition Area, describing the move as a demonstration of national responsibility and institutional maturity. According to the minister, Oxygen City represents a future-ready, climate-responsive, and environmentally conscious urban development model needed to address population growth and economic diversification.

“Oxygen City is designed to serve today’s needs while remaining resilient and adaptable for generations to come,” the minister said.

Traditional Authority Welcomes Project

Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, welcomed the project, describing it as timely and transformative. He highlighted Ho’s reputation as the ‘Oxygen City’ due to its clean air, rich vegetation, and absence of illegal mining activities.

Togbe Afede assured the government and developers of the full support of traditional authorities to ensure the peaceful execution and timely completion of the project.

“Anyone who brings development to Ho is doing the work of the state. We are committed to supporting this project in every possible way,” he said.

A New Chapter for Urban Development

President Mahama concluded by describing Oxygen City as a symbol of hope, opportunity, and confidence in Ghana’s future.

“Today, we are planting more than foundations for buildings. We are planting hope, opportunity, and confidence in what Ghana can achieve when vision is matched with decisive action.”

The Oxygen City project is expected to become TDC’s Community 27, marking the first such development by the company outside the Tema Acquisition Area, with similar projects planned for other regions of the country.

<p>The post President Mahama Cuts Sod for Oxygen City Housing Project in Ho first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

The Branch Secretary, Madam Vida Nkpente, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to passenger safety. She stated that drivers under the branch have been adequately educated and prepared, assuring the public that travelling with GPRTU Branch 8 during the Christmas season is safe.

<p>The post Ho GPRTU Branch 8 Assures Commuters of Safe Travel This Christmas Season first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

GPRTU Reaffirms Commitment to Safe Transport

In a welcome address, Madam Vida Nkpente, secretary of GPRTU Ho Branch 8 described the union as more than just a transport association, but a family that prioritizes the safety and dignity of every member.

She explained that the objectives of the programme were to:

• Raise awareness about GBV and its impact on communities and workplaces
• Equip drivers and station workers to serve as frontline protectors of passengers
• Strengthen GPRTU’s commitment to a violence-free transport sector
• Build a culture of respect, equality and responsible conduct in transport operations

She encouraged participants to actively engage and carry the message back to their stations and communities.

GPRTU Chairman Pledges Strong Action

The Volta Regional Chairman of GPRTU, Mr. Moses Davor, pledged the union’s firm commitment to ending GBV within the transport sector.

He assured that all stations, vehicles and terminals in the Volta Region would be made violence-free and harassment-free zones, especially for women and children. He further promised continuous education, clear internal reporting systems and strict disciplinary action against offenders.

Mr. Davor also pledged collaboration with the Police, CHRAJ, the Department of Social Welfare and civil society organisations to ensure swift response to GBV cases.

Traditional Authority Advocates Women’s Inclusion

Delivering a goodwill message, Togbe Adza Osei VII, called for increased inclusion of women in the transport sector, particularly in driving and union leadership roles.

He also announced a free education initiative for underprivileged girls who wish to enroll at Ho Technical University, to support girl-child education in the region.

Department of Gender Highlights Rising Digital Abuse

The Volta Regional Director of the Department of Gender, Mrs. Thywill Eyra Kpe, stressed that gender-based violence is not confined to homes, but also affects workplaces, schools, communities and public transport spaces.

She noted that the 16 Days of Activism, observed annually from 26 November to 10 December, was established by the United Nations to help reduce gender-based violence worldwide, and raised concern that GBV cases are increasing in schools and communities.

Mrs. Kpe disclosed that this year, the Ministry of Gender collaborated with GPRTU and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to extend advocacy to the transport sector, recognising that drivers interact with thousands of people daily.

She explained that the partnership aims to equip drivers to educate their households and communities, and to report suspected cases to the appropriate institutions.

She raised alarm over the growing trend of digital violence, where individuals use technology to violate women and girls by sharing private images, exposing sensitive body parts, and engaging in online verbal abuse due to domestic misunderstandings.

According to her, such acts are destroying lives and are punishable under Ghana’s cybersecurity laws.

She added that the Department of Gender continues to educate parents to monitor their children’s use of mobile phones, computers and the internet to protect them from online risks.

Call to Parents and Guardians

In a solidarity message, Madam Nancy Anyri of the Department of Social Welfare urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities on social media and mobile devices.

She appealed to the public to take children’s reports of sexual harassment seriously, instead of dismissing or blaming them, stressing that creating a safe environment for children is a shared responsibility.

She further cautioned parents against encouraging their wards to seek financial support from men in exchange for favours, noting that such practices are illegal and expose children to abuse and exploitation.

A Call for Collective Action

The programme ended with a strong call for collective action to make Ho and the entire Volta Region safe from violence, fear and abuse.

Participants were encouraged to become ambassadors of the campaign and help promote a respectful, safe and inclusive transport environment for all.

<p>The post Volta GPRTU Marks 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Ho first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Adusei reflected on his long journey in farming and expressed gratitude to all who have supported him. He recalled previous honours, including being conferred National Best Cocoa Farmer in 2023, and receiving international recognition in Amsterdam as the World’s Best Cocoa Farmer.

“Today, I am profoundly honoured to have been adjudged the National Best Farmer for the year 2025. This distinguished recognition is not mine alone. It belongs equally to the thousands of hardworking Ghanaian farmers,” Mr. Adusei said.

He also acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the Ministry of Fisheries, traditional leaders, farm workers, and his family. “Your excellency, as we celebrate this day, allow me to humbly make an appeal on behalf of the farming community. The issue of irrigation infrastructure development remains critical to the sustainability of our agricultural sector. Areas such as the Afram Plains are blessed with vast fertile lands and immense potential to become the nation’s food basket,” he added.

Mr. Adusei commended the government’s efforts under the Feed Ghana programme, particularly initiatives to expand irrigation infrastructure, mechanisation, and rural development. “These interventions will not only enhance agricultural productivity but also open up our rural economies, create jobs, and transform lives,” he said.

<p>The post 82-Year-Old Abraham Kwaku Adusei Wins Overall Best Farmer at 41st National Farmers’ Day in Ho first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

The fair drew thousands of participants, including farmers, agribusiness innovators, policymakers, investors and exhibitors, who showcased innovations in agricultural technology, value addition and sustainable farming practices.

The event was attended by several high-profile dignitaries from across the country, including the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, the Volta Regional Representative of Chiefs, the Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Madam Baffoe Bonnie, Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, among others.

The celebration was enlivened by cultural performances, including a musical performance by highlife legend Akosua Agyapong, displays by a traditional cultural group, a poetry recital, and a captivating talking drum performance by a young female drummer, which thrilled the audience.

This year’s celebration is being held under the theme: “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future”, highlighting the government’s focus on strengthening national food systems, encouraging the consumption of locally produced foods, and building long-term resilience within the agricultural sector.

At today’s climax of the celebrations, President John Dramani Mahama is expected to present awards to outstanding farmers and fishers across various categories, recognising excellence in productivity, innovation and contributions to community development.

Nationwide, Ghanaians are participating in national, regional and district-level ceremonies to honour individuals whose efforts continue to drive agricultural growth and national development.

Established in 1985, National Farmers’ Day has evolved into one of Ghana’s most significant annual national events, celebrating the vital role of farmers and fishers in Ghana’s economic stability and overall development.

<p>The post Ghana Marks 41st National Farmers’ Day December 5 first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

“Quality, accessible and affordable food is fundamental to national survival and development. A nourished child learns better and grows healthier. A nourished workforce is more productive. And a nourished nation is a stronger nation,” he said.

Mahama stressed that Ghana’s continued dependence on imported staples such as rice, poultry, vegetable oils, sugar and processed foods was unsustainable, adding that his administration is committed to building a bold, resilient and well-sequenced agricultural transformation agenda.

Progress under Feed Ghana programme

The President highlighted progress made under the Feed Ghana Programme, citing improvements in irrigation expansion, mechanisation, storage capacity, access to credit, and value-chain development. He also reported a significant decline in food inflation, from 28.3% in January 2025 to 9.5% by October 2025, attributing the improvement to targeted interventions, including fertiliser and seed distribution and the expansion of irrigation infrastructure.

“When my government assumed office in January 2025, food inflation stood at 28.3 per cent… It has now declined significantly to 9.5 per cent by October 2025,” he stated.

Key agricultural interventions

President Mahama outlined several ongoing initiatives aimed at boosting productivity and reducing post-harvest losses, including:

• Vegetable development projects
• Solar-powered boreholes for irrigation
• Establishment of farmers’ service centres
• Expanded mechanisation support
• Strengthened buffer stock systems

He revealed that over 710,000 farmers have been registered and integrated into national agricultural interventions through a cooperative model, which, according to him, improves bargaining power, fair pricing and collective problem-solving.

The President announced that government support would increasingly be channeled through farmer cooperatives and urged farmers to organise themselves to fully benefit from national programmes.

Reviving the poultry industry

As part of efforts to achieve food sovereignty, Mahama said the government is intensifying efforts to revive the local poultry industry, establish modern processing plants, and expand partnerships with private sector processors.

“We are expanding irrigation infrastructure, establishing farmers’ service centres, increasing storage capacity, improving access to credits and insurance, and strengthening linkages in agro-processing,” he said, adding that public-private partnerships are being used to develop large-scale agribusiness investments while integrating smallholder farmers into inclusive value chains.

Climate-smart agriculture and partnerships

President Mahama called for the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices, stronger research collaboration and deeper partnerships with international development organisations, including IFAD, AGRA, GIZ, JICA, FAO and the African Development Bank.

He expressed appreciation to development partners, financial institutions, and countries including Italy, Norway, the Netherlands and Canada, as well as local banks such as the Agricultural Development Bank, for their support to the sector.

To feed Ghana, we must also eat Ghana

Reaffirming his administration’s vision, the President urged Ghanaians to prioritise local food consumption.

“To feed Ghana, we must also eat Ghana. We cannot import what we can grow. We must promote Ghanaian rice, Ghanaian poultry, yams, fruits, vegetables, cooking oil and cassava products,” he said.

He concluded by praising farmers and fishers as “the real heroes of Ghana’s progress” and officially launched the 2025 National Farmers’ Day celebrations, calling for unity between government, private sector and communities to build a resilient and prosperous nation.

<p>The post Mahama Urges Ghanaians to Eat Ghana at 41st Farmers’ Day – Government to Cut $3bn Food Import Bill first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

The summit is part of the ongoing Volta Trade and Investment Fair

The event brought together women from across the region to exhibit a variety of locally made products, including pomade, cookies, and kente cloth. Attendees were also treated to cultural performances and music from Venunye. The summit was moderated by Ms. Joyce Dzidzor.

Keynote Address

The special guest and keynote speaker, Hon. Benita Sena Okity-Duah, National Coordinator of the Free SHS Secretariat, former MP, and former Deputy Minister for Gender, emphasized the crucial role women play in sustaining Ghana’s economy.
She highlighted the challenges women entrepreneurs face and noted that the summit aims to provide solutions that will help their businesses grow. Hon. Okity-Duah also mentioned various government initiatives that support women, including soft loans, vocational and IT training, and provisions for registering even the smallest businesses.

Solidarity Messages

Solidarity messages were delivered by representatives from the Department of Gender and Children, Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Volta Queen Mothers, and other institutions.

In her message, Mama Bobi III, Queen Mother of Bake, Ho-Bankoe, encouraged participants to build connections with accomplished women entrepreneurs. She advised them to seek mentorship rather than harbour jealousy, stressing that networking is vital for business growth.
Mama Bobi III urged the women to keep proper records of all transactions, register their businesses, and certify their products. As a judge, she emphasized that documentation is critical when resolving disputes in court.

Representatives of the Ghana Enterprises Agency also reminded participants of the importance of business registration and product certification, including registration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA).

Remarks from Mama Blemeali Afeanyetornye III

Speaking to the media, Mama Blemeali Afeanyetornye III, Queen Mother of Afife in Ketu North, explained that the Women Entrepreneurship Summit was integrated into the regional trade fair to ensure proper representation of women entrepreneurs.
She noted that agencies such as GIPA, GEA, and GIPC, along with seasoned entrepreneurs, were brought on board to help participants share challenges and learn strategies for expanding locally and internationally.

According to her, this year marks the second edition of the summit, following the success of the maiden event. She acknowledged the impressive agricultural produce, kente, and other products showcased, adding that with improved packaging, these goods could reach international markets.

Mama Blemeali III also appealed for more sponsorship to sustain the summit, describing funding as their biggest challenge. She praised the support of past and present regional ministers, and commended Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB) for sponsoring the program. She called on other banks, mentors both male and female and the media to support future editions.

Zilideon’s Support

Following Mama Blemeali’s appeal, Zilideon, Ho’s local business directory, pledged to support Volta women entrepreneurs by offering affordable advertising packages to help boost their businesses.

Entrepreneurial Excellence Recognized

Two outstanding Volta women entrepreneurs were honoured with the Mawuena Adzo Dumor Entrepreneur Award for their contribution to Ghana’s economy. Their inspiring journeys were shown in a short video.

Mama Nyonyo II of Akoefe, Afetorfia, founder and CEO of Akosombo Catering (13 years in operation), and Madam Elizabeth Aku, founder of Kawa Moka Coffee Roasters of Leklebi (10 years in operation), both received citations.

The award body also recognized the Volta Regional Minister for his dedication and support toward women’s development in the region.

<p>The post AGE and VRCC Host 2nd Women Entrepreneurship Summit in Ho first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

Agric Minister Commends Farmers, Stakeholders

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, expressed appreciation to all actors in the agricultural sector whose efforts continue to fuel Ghana’s food security, economic growth, and job creation.

He described the 2025 National Agricultural Fair as more than an exhibition a practical demonstration of Ghana’s progress in modernizing agriculture.

Over the next five days, the Ho Sports Stadium will host:

• Agribusinesses
• Universities and research institutions
• Technology service providers
• Development partners
• Exhibitors showcasing seeds, livestock, mechanization equipment, irrigation technologies, digital advisory tools, agro-processing machinery, and more.

Hon. Opoku emphasized that the fair promotes learning, collaboration, and innovation, supporting farmers, investors, and students to exchange knowledge and explore market opportunities.

He further commended the Volta Regional Coordinating Council for its readiness and enthusiasm in hosting this year’s national celebration, describing the region’s support as exceptional.

Partnerships Reduce Government Burden

The Minister also acknowledged Gai Kho General Insurance for providing a GH¢1 million public liability insurance cover for all participants at the fair.

He highlighted the role of the AgriHouse Foundation, the implementation partner for this year’s fair, for coordinating exhibitors and reducing the financial burden traditionally carried by government.

According to him, the fair previously expensive for the state is now being organized at no cost to government due to strong public-private partnerships.

He called on corporate Ghana to continue supporting the Ministry of Agriculture in celebrating and empowering hardworking farmers and fishers nationwide.

Fisheries Ministry Lauds Fishers and Processors

Delivering a speech on behalf of the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Madam Marianne Kpikpi praised the contributions of fishers, fish farmers, and fish processors, especially women who form the backbone of the value chain.

She noted that fish accounts for about 60% of the animal protein consumed in Ghana, feeding millions of households daily and supporting around 3 million livelihoods across the sector.

In 2024:

• Artisanal fisheries landed over 300,000 metric tons of marine fish.
• Aquaculture contributed about 122,000 metric tons.

She acknowledged ongoing challenges—rising costs, climate change, and post-harvest losses—but emphasized that government reforms are underway, including:

• Strengthening fisheries management under the new Fisheries and Aquaculture Act
• Expanding aquaculture zones
• Improving landing site infrastructure
• Enforcing protection of the inshore exclusive zone for artisanal fishers

She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to building a resilient, sustainable, and modern fisheries sector.

A Call to Action

Both ministries emphasized that the 2025 theme, “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future,” is a national call to action urging Ghanaians to:

• Increase domestic food production
• Promote consumption of locally produced foods
• Strengthen value chains
• Ensure food security for future generations

The launch ended with a call for active participation in the week-long fair and exhibitions.

<p>The post 41st Farmers’ Day Celebration Launched in Ho – Agric Fair Opens first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

This year’s celebration is being observed under the theme:
“Adoption of Innovation and Technology to Enhance Access to Justice Delivery through Alternative Dispute Resolution.”

Delivering his keynote address, the Chief Justice said the theme was timely and forward-looking, urging stakeholders to embrace digital transformation to expand access to justice. According to him, the world is evolving rapidly, and justice systems must evolve as well.

The Evolving Role of ADR

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie emphasized that justice is essential for social harmony, yet the traditional court system—although effective—can be slow, adversarial, and expensive. ADR, he explained, has become a credible complement to litigation, providing mechanisms such as mediation, arbitration, conciliation, and negotiation.

He highlighted several advantages of ADR:

• Faster and less expensive compared to litigation
• Less adversarial, enabling open dialogue and mutual respect
• Preserves relationships, especially in family, workplace, and business matters
• Allows creative, interest-based solutions crafted by the parties themselves
• Reduces the caseload of the courts and speeds up justice delivery

He noted that over the past two decades, Ghana’s Court-Connected ADR (CCADR) has proven vital in reducing case backlogs. Many cases resolved through ADR never return to court, he added, underscoring the system’s credibility.

Technology and Innovation as Catalysts for Justice

The Chief Justice stressed that technology is no longer optional but essential.

According to him, integrating digital tools into ADR can:

• Broaden access through virtual mediation and online dispute resolution
• Enhance efficiency using digital filing, automated scheduling, and electronic notifications
• Improve user experience, allowing parties to participate remotely and comfortably

He said the Judicial Service is committed to ensuring that ADR forms part of the justice sector’s digitalisation agenda and will collaborate with ICT professionals, mediators, judges and development partners to establish a modern, secure, and inclusive system.

Court-Connected ADR Programme (CCADR)

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie reiterated the significance of the CCADR since its introduction in 2005. To boost public awareness, one week of each legal term is dedicated to ADR activities. The programme focuses on:

1. Mass Mediation Exercise

Mediators across the country resolve cases referred by the courts, reducing congestion and improving timelines.

2. Public Sensitisation

Through radio discussions, community engagements and stakeholder meetings, the Judicial Service educates the public on the benefits of ADR.

ADR agreements, he noted, are voluntary, confidential, and adopted as consent judgments with the same legal force as court decisions.

A Call for Collective Responsibility

The Chief Justice called on all stakeholders to support the ADR system:

• Public: ADR is not second-rate—it is effective, legitimate, and efficient.
• Judges and Magistrates: Continue to identify suitable cases for ADR referrals.
• Registrars and Staff: Maintain professionalism and diligence in ADR administration.
• Mediators: Uphold integrity and promote reconciliation.
• Lawyers: Guide clients toward ADR where appropriate.
• Media: Help strengthen public confidence in ADR.

He concluded by officially declaring the ADR Week duly launched, encouraging all to work together toward a justice system anchored in fairness, compassion, and respect for human dignity.

Justice Angelina Mensah-Homiah Calls for Operationalisation of ADR Centres Nationwide

Speaking at the launch, Her Ladyship Justice Angelina Mensah-Homiah, Justice of the Court of Appeal and the Justice-in-Charge of ADR, highlighted the growing acceptance of ADR across the Oti and Volta Regions.

She revealed that engagements with judges and communities in Jasikan, Hohoe, Sogakope, Akatsi, Dzodze, Denu, and Agbozume show that ADR is increasingly becoming the preferred method for dispute resolution.

She commended the Asogli Traditional Council, noting that 20 chiefs attended ADR sensitisation sessions and fully embraced the concept of both mediation and customary arbitration.

Justice Mensah-Homiah also emphasized that the ADR Act, 2010 (Act 798) provides for the establishment of a national ADR centre. When operationalised, the center will have national, regional and district offices to facilitate settlement of disputes outside the courts.

Key points she highlighted:

• ADR reduces the caseload on the courts
• ADR has settled 37,000 cases in the last 20 years
• ADR works closely with CHRAJ, Legal Aid Commission and the Bar
• 400 mediators were recruited in 2024 and are awaiting training and deployment
• Experienced mediators are needed to help resolve complex High Court cases

She pledged her commitment to ensuring the ADR Centre becomes fully operational.

Principal State Attorney Moses Ayine Asampoa Calls for Wider Use of ADR and Technology

Principal State Attorney Moses Ayine Asampoa also presented a speech, commending the Chief Justice for his leadership and expressing full support for his policies.

He elaborated on the theme for the ADR Week, noting that although ADR is backed by statutes such as:

• ADR Act, 2010 (Act 798)
• Courts Act, 1993 (Act 459)
• Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036)

its use remains underutilised by both lawyers and litigants.

He emphasised that ADR:

• Is simple and cost-effective
• Encourages win-win outcomes
• Preserves business and personal relationships
• Allows technical disputes to be handled by experts
• Promotes privacy, flexibility and speed

Lawyers and ADR

He expressed concern that some lawyers may discourage ADR because they fear reduced fees. He reminded them that instigating unnecessary litigation is professional misconduct under:

• Legal Profession Act, 1960
• Ghana Bar Association Constitution
• Legal Profession Etiquette Rules, 2020 (L.I. 2423)

He urged lawyers to:

• Recommend ADR as a first option
• Embrace virtual mediation and digital filing
• Become ambassadors of technology-driven justice

Judges and ADR

Judges, he said, must act as gatekeepers by:

• Referring appropriate cases to ADR
• Tracking ADR progress through digital systems
• Encouraging litigants to appreciate ADR benefits

Proposal for an ADR Unit at the Attorney General’s Office

He proposed the creation of an arbitral or mediation body within the Attorney General’s office to settle disputes involving state agencies—such as issues between ECG, Ghana Water, Health Service and other institutions—rather than resorting to litigation.

Plea Bargaining as Criminal ADR

Asampoa also connected ADR principles to criminal justice through plea bargaining, noting that:

• It expedites criminal cases
• Helps address issues of long remand periods
• Reduces burdens caused by lack of witnesses
• Ensures efficient case disposal when guilt is clear

He encouraged prosecutors, defense lawyers and judges to apply the Plea-Bargaining Act, 2022 (Act 1079) more effectively.

<p>The post Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie Launches ADR Week, Calls for Technology-Driven Justice Delivery first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>