From the strides made in digital identity management to the launch of innovative platforms challenging the social media status quo, the narrative unfolded across diverse sectors. Legislative breakthroughs and the recognition of global talent in the hip-hop scene further highlighted the nation’s multifaceted character. However, these successes, the country grappled with unforeseen challenges, including environmental crises and political scandals. This article takes a closer look at the mosaic of events that defined Ghana’s journey in 2023.
Over 800,000 Ghana cards yet to be collected
In 2023, Prof. Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah, the Executive Secretary of the National Identification Authority (NIA), revealed that over 800,000 Ghana cards remained uncollected. The NIA aimed to address this by opening district and regional offices for card retrieval. Simultaneously, a nationwide mop-up operation was planned to register the remaining 2.5 million citizens within three months. Collaboration with various agencies facilitated registration for newborns, children aged 0–15, and those aged 6–14. Special efforts were made to include marginalized groups, such as cured lepers, utilizing biometric data. The Vice President emphasized the Ghana Card’s importance, citing over 120 million identity verifications. The NIA’s accomplishments were lauded, with plans for similar initiatives nationwide.
Meta launches Threads – a potential Twitter killer
Somewhere in early July 2023, Meta launched its app Threads, amassing 30 million sign-ups on the first day and triggering comparisons to a potential “Twitter killer.” The text-focused platform, akin to Twitter, drew users with real-time conversations, photos, and videos. Some noted its resemblance to Instagram, with seamless sharing to Instagram Stories. Despite initial glitches, Threads gained momentum, posing a challenge to Twitter amid user dissatisfaction. With Mark Zuckerberg aiming for billions of users, Threads leveraged Meta’s infrastructure but faced concerns over data collection. The app’s future potential includes ad integration to bolster Meta’s business.
Ghana – Parliament passes cannabis cultivation Bill
Parliament unanimously passed the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill 2023, allowing the Ministry of Interior to issue licenses for cannabis cultivation. Following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down previous restrictions, the amendment marked a transformative shift in harnessing cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes. Members of Parliament highlighted the plant’s potential during debates, emphasizing benefits for industry and medicine. The amendment is expected to drive innovation, job creation, and economic growth in the cannabis sector, fostering a new era of regulated cultivation and positioning the country at the forefront of global cannabis legalization efforts.
Former sanitation minister faces corruption probe amidst cash discovery
A former Ghanaian sanitation minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, faced an Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) investigation following allegations of corruption. The probe ensued after over $1 million (£813,300) in cash was discovered at her residence, triggering public outrage. The money, initially stolen by domestic staff, prompted police involvement. Amid parliamentary concerns, Dapaah resigned. Recently, she sought legal intervention, filing a court application to halt the OSP’s investigation. Denying all allegations, Dapaah, along with her husband, faced scrutiny from the FBI and Ghana’s OSP, leading to an extensive investigation into their assets and financial dealings in the United States.
Accra to London – the Wanderlust journey
Wanderlust Ghana, which was led by Kwabena Peprah, completed a remarkable 10,000-kilometer cross-continental road trip from Accra to London. The diverse team of philanthropists and tourism enthusiasts, initially comprising 13 members, showcased Africa and Europe’s diverse terrains. Their journey, documented on social media, featured a range of vehicles and aimed to raise funds for rural Ghanaian schools through their organization, EduSpots. Despite challenges and delays, including in Mauritania, the team praised Senegal and Morocco. The expedition, concluding in London, underscored human determination, adventure, and a commitment to philanthropy.
Black Sherif wins BET Awards
During the 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards, Ghana’s Black Sherif secured the esteemed Best International Flow award, showcasing the diverse talent within global hip-hop. The category featured artists from South Africa, the UK, France, Brazil, and Zambia, emphasizing the genre’s worldwide influence. Black Sherif’s win not only highlighted Ghana’s thriving hip-hop scene and his lyrical prowess but also underscored the international recognition of African hip-hop. This victory echoed Ghanaian artist Sarkodie’s 2019 win, making him the first African to receive the honor, solidifying Ghana’s global hip-hop presence and paving the way for other African artists to gain international acclaim, reinforcing the genre’s impact on a global scale.
Akosombo Dam and the flooding impacts
In October 2023, the Akosombo Dam in Ghana faced a critical situation as heavy rains raised water levels beyond its capacity. To prevent a dam failure, the Volta River Authority released water, causing severe flooding in North and Central Tongu districts. Approximately 35,857 people, especially children, were displaced, leading to destroyed homes, lost livelihoods, and disrupted education. The spillage underscored the impact of climate change on dam operations. Urgent government intervention is required to provide immediate relief and rebuild affected areas, emphasizing the need for robust disaster management plans near major dams to protect vulnerable communities.
Revamped Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park inaugurated
In July 2023, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo inaugurated the revamped Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, a year after initiating the project. The park, built in 1991, underwent a comprehensive modernization, costing GH¢30 million. The upgraded facilities include a presidential library, amphitheatre, restaurant, and a digitalized payment system. Aiming to boost tourism, the president envisioned attracting over a million visitors annually. Additionally, plans were unveiled for museums and tourist attractions nationwide. The Minister of Finance highlighted the economic impact of tourism, while the World Bank provided a $40 million loan for various tourism development projects. The ceremony concluded with a tour led by President Akufo-Addo and tree-planting.
Afua Asantewaa’ Guinness World Record attempt
Afua Asantewaa Aduonum shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest sing-a-thon by an individual, surpassing India’s Sunil Waghmare. Her “afuaasantewaasingathon” commenced on December 24, 2023, lasting five days and a few hours and featuring various positions. Undeterred by physical challenges, Afua concluded her marathon on December 29, 2023, amassing an impressive 126 hours of continuous singing, exceeding Waghmare’s record by 21 hours. Despite not being a professional musician, Afua’s passion for music propelled her to this extraordinary achievement, marking a new milestone in the musical landscape. Verification from Guinness World Record judges is now awaited.
