Day: May 14, 2024

CITN advocates sustainable tax culture for economic dev’t


The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), on Tuesday, tasked government at all levels to build an efficient and effective sustainable tax culture for sustainable economic development.

Mr Samuel Agbeluyi, President of the CITN, said this in Abuja, at the 26th Annual Conference, with a theme: ‘Sustainable Tax Culture and Economic Roadmap for Nation Building’.

Agbeluyi said that government at all levels have a great role to play, adding that taxation demands utmost level of professionalism due to its critical importance to economic sustainability.

‘In building a sustainable tax culture, government have a vital role to play. In furthering efforts at sustaining a tax paying culture, it is important to emphasise judicious use of tax revenue.

‘This is to engender trust between government and taxpayer, thereby entrenching a tax paying culture and by extension, contributing to nation building.

‘Taxation is not merely about revenue collection, it is about building a sustainable future for our country.

‘It is about creating a culture where every citizen understands the importance of contributing fair share toward national development.

‘It is more importantly about prudently using tax policies as a roadmap to drive economic growth, social inclusiveness and prosperity for all,’ he said.

Agbeluyi emphasised the need to invest in technology, adding that the efforts would help people to effectively track revenues in the digital space, including cryptocurrency to maximise government revenue flow.

He said that CITN converged tax experts to critically examine challenges in Nigeria’s fiscal and tax environment with a view to providing solutions for the consideration of policy makers in that regard.

He said that it was necessary to provide support to the revenue authorities by way of financial and administrative autonomy to empower them to effectively administer taxes.

According to him, as a commitment to fully enforce the implementation of Act No. 76 of 1992, redesignated as Cap. C10, Law of Nigeria, 2004, conf
ers on CITN the powers to regulate the taxation profession in all its ramifications in the country.

He, however, urged government at all levels to create career path for tax functions within Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), to promote professionalism and efficiency.

Dr Yemi Sanni, the Chairman of the conference, said for Nigeria to achieve meaningful physical development, it is imperative to establish a tax culture that would withstand economic challenges.

Sanni said that government was prioritising the improvement of tax revenue for physical performance as the leading professional body in taxation in Nigeria.

According to him, the emphasis on ‘sustainable’ is deliberate, adding that it requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders including the government tax professionals and tax payers themselves.

‘It is our responsibility to support these efforts by convening gatherings like this conference.

‘We provide a platform for deliberation and collaboration with the aim of developing actionab
le recommendations that will help the government achieve its desired objectives.

‘As we delve into the intricacies of taxation and economic development, I encourage you all to take sometime to relax, network and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow professionals.

‘This conference offers opportunities for learning and building lasting connections and friendships. I want to assure you that we have assembled a line up of distinguished facilitators who are experts in their respective fields.

‘I urge you to actively engaged in discussions, share your insights and take advantage of the weight of knowledge that will be shared during this conference,’ he said.

Sen. Ibikunle Amosun, Special Guest of the occasion, encouraged government of all levels to be more committed in ensuring that people were more equipped with knowledgeable skills needed to build on effective tax system.

Amosun was also former Governor of Ogun State.

Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu, Governor of Sokoto, in his remark, said that the state generates about N3.4
billion internal revenue quarterly.

Aliyu said that the state was committed to collaborating with CITN and other relevant stakeholders to achieve a tax driven economy.

He appreciated members of the CITN and other stakeholders for working assiduously towards ensuring that the conference was a huge success.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

NAF to showcase capabilities at 60th anniversary


The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), has announced its preparedness to showcase its capabilities through research and development efforts as part of activities to celebrate its 60 years of existence.

The Chairman, Organising Committee for NAF 60th Anniversary Celebration, AVM Michael Ekwueme, made this known while briefing newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ekwueme said the 60th anniversary was not only a time for celebration but also a moment for deep reflection on the accomplishments and challenges of NAF, as well as charting the way forward.

He said that the NAF had overcome numerous obstacles, adapted to evolving threats and subsequently emerged stronger and more resilient throughout its rich history.

According to him, there is no doubt that the service has grown over the years into a formidable and respected force within the African continent and beyond.

‘The NAF has continued to fulfil its mandate of securing the territorial integrity of our dear nation through effective application of air power.

‘NAF has made
appreciable progress and significant contributions in the areas of internal security, humanitarian assistance, peace-keeping operations and restoration and sustenance of democracy in Africa.

‘The service has also made giant strides in the area of Research and Development.

‘It is only rational therefore, to celebrate its existence as well as the laudable achievements of the past six decades’.

Ekwueme disclosed that the theme of the celebration would be ‘Nigerian Air Force at 60: Leveraging Strategic Partnerships in Aerospace Innovations for Regional Security’.

He explained that the theme was in line with one of the key enablers of the Chief of the Air Staff’s Command Philosophy which is prioritising research and development, leveraging cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships.

He noted that this year’s theme was aimed at building on partnerships to address contemporary security challenges not only in the country, but across the African region.

He outlined some of the activities lined up to incl
ude medical outreaches to various host communities.

According to him, there will be Juma’at prayers on May 17, interdenominational Church service on May 19 and outreach by the NAF Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) in Abuja.

He also said that due to the emphasis on R and D in the NAF, there would be an Inter-Command Research and Development Competition on May18 in Abuja.

‘You will witness innovative solutions and projects undertaken and supported by the NAF leadership led by Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.

‘The Third African Air Forces Forum, Conference, and Exhibition will take place from May 23 to 24 in Abuja where we are expecting more than 2,000 participants.

‘More than 30 air forces and 10 chiefs of air staff, 40 exhibitors including major defence and aerospace players such as Airbus, Embraer, Diamond Aircraft, HAVELSAN, and Jet Aviation are expected,” he said.

Ekwueme said the Defence Industries Cooperation of Nigeria (DICON) would lead the nation’s military industrial complex to showcase local cap
abilities.

He added that the highpoint of the celebration would feature a ceremonial parade, aerial display and flying out of retired senior officers of 37 and 38 Regular Courses on May 25.

According to him, President Bola Tinubu is expected to be the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion.

He further said that the leadership of the NAF had decided to adopt a Public Private Partnership model to organise and fund the event in consideration of the prevailing economic challenges.

He also said that the NAF had also secured sponsorships from some state governments and organisations.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

World Bank urges states to enhance progress in SURWASH Programme


The World Bank has urged states implementing the Sustainable Urban-Rural Water Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme to explore better approaches for the benefit of the people.

The 700 million dollar- programme, is underway in Delta, Ekiti, Gombe, Imo, Kaduna, Katsina, and Plateau.

Mr Vinay Vantukhur, World Bank’s Sector Leader, Sustainable Development Practice Group, made this call at a one-day Stakeholders’ Forum of the SURWASH programme in Abuja on Tuesday.

The forum was in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.

He stated that the programme aims to provide basic drinking water services to six million people, improve sanitation services for 1.4 million people, and establish 500 open defecation-free communities.

Additionally, 2,000 schools and healthcare facilities are slated to receive upgraded WASH services.

Vantukhur noted that the current progress has been sluggish, emphasising the need for a different approach.

He encouraged stakeholders to take ownership of
the implementation processes, noting the importance of innovation and exploring new strategies to achieve sustainable progress for the communities.

He highlighted the disparity between the set targets and the current achievements, underscoring the gap between goals and actual implementation.

Dr Nicholas Madu, Director of Water Supply and Support Services at the ministry, pointed out challenges facing the implementation of the SURWASH programme, noting a discrepancy between current investment and progress.

These challenges include; limited knowledge and capacity concerning programme implementation protocols, Interference from political leaders and frequent changes in critical appointments.

He also listed states’ insufficient prioritisation of WASH access due to inadequate funding, which didn’t align with Federal Government’s commitment and action plan.

Madu also stressed the importance of states and local governments taking ownership of public water infrastructure to ensure sustainability.

He noted the f
requent breakdown and abandonment of water infrastructure projects, emphasising the need for proactive measures to address these issues.

Abdulhamid Gwaram, the SURWASH National Programme Coordinator, said the progress achieved in implementing the programme has been overshadowed by population growth, with investment not keeping pace.

Quoting from the WASHNORM 2021 report, he highlighted that only 18 per cent of Nigerians have access to safely-managed sanitation services, underscoring the urgent need for a change in approach.

Gwaram emphasised the wide-ranging implications of inadequate WASH services on national development, including economic losses, health impacts, stunted child development, poor education outcomes, and loss of dignity.

While acknowledging the commitment demonstrated by states towards the sustainable development and progress of the SURWASH programme, he called for renewed dedication to address these challenges effectively.

Goodwill messages from Ukeme Essien of WaterAid Nigeria, Jane Bev
an of UNICEF Nigeria, and the representative of the Special Assistant to the President on Health emphasised the crucial role of partnership and intentional collaboration between government tiers.

They all underscored that effective and sustainable implementation of the SURWASH programme hinges on such partnerships.

The forum’s highlight was a discussion on the theme ‘SURWASH Programme 2022-2024: Which Way Forward,’ during which participants deliberated on the challenges and way forward in accessing safe drinking water and sanitation.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Nonagenarian tasks youths on apprenticeship as NAN staff buries father


A nonagenarian, Chief Gabriel Onwugbenu, has advised the youths to enroll in Igbo apprenticeship scheme (Igba Boi), a programme of the Anambra Government and shun the get-rich-quick syndrome.

Onwugbenu, 91, gave the advice in Nnewi, the industrial hub of Anambra during the burial of Chief Michael Anosike, father to Mrs Patricia Amogu, a staff member of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

According to him, Igbo apprenticeship scheme is a sure means of self-reliance.

The nonagenarian, who mentored the late Anosike, a renown auto spare parts mogul, said there was a need to invent the values of patience, industry, hardwork and mentoring in the quest for wealth.

He said the deceased was diligent during apprenticeship and later became a creator of wealth and employer of labour.

‘The advantage of learning a trade is that on graduation, you become an employer of labour aside from being self reliant and making the money therein,’ he stated.

On his part, Chief Louis Onwugbenu, chairman/CEO, Louis Carter Group, said
the news of the demise of Anosike was a rude shock to him and members of his foundation.

Onwugbenu said the late Anosike had supported his foundation since it was founded 10 years ago.

‘His donation and support are gestures of his personality and character, we will miss him,’ he said.

No fewer than 25 Catholic priests from across Nigeria led by Very Revd. Fr Augustine Nwosu, joined to celebrate the burial mass at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Nnewi.

In his homily, Rev. Fr Prof. Ignatius Obinwa, encouraged humanity to continue to live in harmony and do good to one another as there was hope of eternal bliss in heaven hereafter.

Obinwa, who read from the books of Isaiah 25: 6-9; Rev. 14:3 and John 14: 1-6 said though God was not seen or touched, he existed and all his promises were true.

He said only good deeds while alive were the ladder that could take anyone to heaven as nobody took anything with him or her from the earth at death.

‘We pray that the good Lord will bless his good works, forgive him
his sins and bring him to eternal life in paradise,’ he said.

In a remark, the daughter of the deceased, Mrs Patricia Amogu, a Principal Correspondent of NAN, appreciated the priests, knights and ladies of St John’s International as well as friends who joined the family at their time of grief.

She said the death of their patriarch was a huge loss to the family but thanked God for the impactful life he led while expressing faith that his soul would find favour with the Lord.

‘My father was a humanitarian, he lived selflessly, he was a dedicated Catholic and he touched humanity, we will miss him.

‘Knowing a man like my father did not just make me see life from a broader, and clear perspective; it changed everything about me,’ she said.

Pa Anosike, an auto spare parts mogul, was born 81 years ago to the family of Mr and Mrs Julius Anosike from Umuogeli-Okpunoezi, Abubor in Nnewichi, Nnewi.

He started his early education at St Peter Claver Catholic School, Nnewichi and graduated from the Kentist School of B
usiness Management and Administration, London.

He was survived by his wife, four sons and five daughters.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Newmont donates medical equipment to KBTH Children’s ward


Newmont Africa has donated medical equipment worth over GHS 129,000 to the Children’s Ward of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital to enhance the quality of healthcare.

A statement issued by Newmont Africa said the equipment donated were a Mobile Portable Electric Suction Machine, a Promedic Pulse Oximeter, 10L, 40L, and 50L oxygen cylinders, and food warmers, among others.

It quoted the Head of Safety and Sustainability at Newmont’s Business Unit in Africa, Mr Ashley Armarego, to have said the gesture formed part of the company’s commitment to the safety and well-being of not just its workforce but the broader community.

‘It is also a result of our cross-functional collaboration, and I am happy that the company continues to make a difference in the lives of people through its operations.

‘I am proud of the team’s dedication to the well-being of the communities in which we operate,’ he said.

Armarego said safety was Newmont’s utmost priority and at the core of its operations and ‘it is on the back of this that
we extend this value beyond our walls into our host communities.’

‘Supporting the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital’s Children’s Ward is one of the many things that give Newmont’s purpose its essence’.

The statement said Dr Taiba Jibril Afaa, Acting Head of the Department for the children’s Ward, thanked Newmont for the gesture, adding it was timely and would significantly enhance the hospital’s capacity to offer quality treatment to the children in their care.

‘We want to express our sincere thanks to Newmont for their generous support during this time of oxygen shortage.

The items provided will be put to good use, and we look forward to building a strong relationship with Newmont in future,’ She added.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Oncology Nurse Specialist encourages men to go for breast cancer screening


Mrs Gifty Sarfo Annan, an Oncology Nurse Specialist at the Tamale Teaching Hospital has underscored the need for men to periodically undertake medical screening on breast cancer to know their status.

She said this would ensure early detection and treatment and reduce any medical complications associated with the disease.

Mrs Annan said this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Tamale on the sidelines of an event organised to sensitise and screen members of blind and deaf community of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFD) on breast cancer.

Mrs Annan said contrary to misconceptions that breast cancer could only be identified with women, it was critical for members of the public to know that the disease was on a rise among men.

She said ‘Breast cancer does not discriminate. Both men and women must show interest in screening to enhance early detection and treatment.’

She emphasised that ‘World Health Organization reports that about 0.5 to one per cent of men are likely to get breast
cancer, which means that if you take about one thousand men, one of them is likely to have breast cancer.’

The event was organised by Cancer Care for Humanity International, an NGO, which is committed to enhancing awareness creation on cervical and breast cancer.

It was also used to commemorate this year’s Mother’s Day.

Mrs Annan was worried that though the exercise was meant for both genders, men did not show up for the exercise because of the misconception about breast cancer.

She emphasised that the disease was treatable and encouraged both men and women to avoid self-medication and rather seek early medical attention.

Madam Abubakari Sahadatu Nimatu, Northern Regional President of GFD praised Cancer Care for Humanity International for the exercise, and expressed optimism that the knowledge gained would help minimise breast cancer cases amongst them.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Lupus is a public health concern – Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation


Mrs Emma Danso, the Executive Director of Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation, has reiterated that lupus is a public health concern that is yet to receive the support it deserves in Ghana.

Lupus is an inflammatory disease caused when the immune system attacks its own tissues.

The Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation in a statement copied to Ghana News Agency to mark this year’s Lupus Day, May 10, said findings of a global survey on steroid use by lupus patients indicate that diabetes, heart disease, organ failure, osteoporosis, and vision impairment were some of the major side effects of steroid use by lupus patients.

Mrs Danso said the survey was conducted by the World Lupus Federation from February to March 2024 to 7,741 patients from about 108 countries including Ghana.

She said focusing on the extent and impacts of steroid use for the care of lupus, the results confirmed the urgent need for both awareness of steroid side effects and ongoing research for more treatments and, ultimately, a cure for lupus.

In an addre
ss to observe World Lupus Day which is celebrated on May 10 each year, Mrs Danso shared some of the responses of patients from the survey to buttress the need for more awareness and supportive policy on lupus in Ghana.

She said while 90 per cent of patients said that their lupus symptoms improved with steroid use, 95 per cent of respondents reported at least one side effect.

She noted that also, six in 10 respondents reported experiencing at least one major side effect of using steroids; this was also true for seven in 10 respondents taking steroids for more than five years.

She said a survey respondent stated, ‘I absolutely hate the side effects of taking steroids, but unfortunately, I don’t feel there’s a better option out there when a bad flare comes on.’

Mrs Danso said other side effects which stood out in the findings include weight gain, mood swings, appearance changes, insomnia, increased appetite, and hair loss.

‘It is a hard reality to admit that the very medication supposed to help correct the
debilitating handwriting of lupus on a patient can cause more and/or new problems as side effects. This dilemma was a huge personal challenge for years,’ she said.

She said the awareness was low, and that many people continue to endure health challenges undiagnosed.

‘The side effects of the steroids used by lupus patients can be complete diseases for other people,’ she stated.

‘For diagnosed patients also, lupus healthcare is very expensive. The easy option is to take steroids in addition to other options for treatment. Many lupus patients take steroids as part of their treatment even though the aim of lupus treatment is targeted towards elimination of steroid use.’

She said in Ghana, the minimum dosage of prednisolone, the common steroid prescribed for patients was 5mg.

She noted that this implies that even when a patient was in remission or doing well, the patient must be on a maintenance dose of 5mg daily; this was a high dose compared to developed countries where patients have access to lower doses.

T
he Executive Director appealed to the relevant authorities to make 1mg and 2mg prednisolone tablets available to patients in Ghana.

She explained that most patients who use steroids default in their treatment because of the fear of the potential side effects; declaring that however, until better and affordable options were available, lupus patients would continue to take steroids, a necessary evil.

She said lupus was a chronic autoimmune disease that causes a person’s immune system to fight its own healthy organs and tissues; and that its symptoms include fatigue, skin problems, oral or nasal ulcers, arthritis, serositis as well as other disorders involving the heart, kidney, lungs, and nervous system.

She mentioned that causes of lupus include stress, hormones, genes, infections, and taking some medications.

‘There is currently no cure for lupus, but it can be well managed if diagnosed early and appropriate treatment is adhered to. Lupus is an unpredictable disease that can attack anyone at any time and
hence awareness and supportive policies are critical,’ Mrs Danso said.

‘The impact of lupus transcends patients and their immediate families. It is, therefore, imperative that everyone becomes aware of lupus and the reality of autoimmunity in Ghana,’ she added.

Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation is a duly registered non-profit organization that?undertakes advocacy, education, awareness creation, counselling as well as fundraising to provide support services such as medical assistance to patients.

It is the hope of OYEMAM to inspire hope in patients as well as those impacted indirectly by autoimmune diseases, especially lupus.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Vice President assures payment of nursing trainee allowance by Thursday


Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has announced that the outstanding nursing trainee allowance for 2024 will be released by the government by Thursday, May 16, 2024.

‘I am assuring our trainees that come this Thursday the Controller and Accountant General shall transfer funds (177 million) to the Ministry of Finance for onward crediting of the trainee allowances accounts. So, hopefully by next week the ‘Alawa’ will drop’.

Dr Bawumia made the announcement at the launch of the International Nurses Day, organised by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) in Accra on Tuesday,

The day was marked on the theme: ‘Our Nurses and Midwives, Our Future: The Economic Power of Care’.

The Vice President expressed his commitment to carrying on Presidents John Agyekum Kufour and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s legacies by ensuring the continuation of the nurses’ and teacher trainees’ allowances, adding that, despite occasional delays, he would make sure that payment was made to support the trainees.

H
e said that steps were being taken to reduce the backlog of unemployed Nurses and Midwives, notably the 2020 and 2021 batches, as soon as possible.

‘As the Vice President, I am dedicated to supporting the work of our nurses and midwives especially with the coming onstream of the Agenda 111 state-of-the-art facilities.

Dr. Bawumia acknowledged that nurses and midwives are more than just healthcare providers, stating that ‘they are highly skilled professionals who provide evidence-based care to patients and families, hence their expertise, empathy, and dedication helped enhance health outcomes, lower healthcare expenses, and improve the overall well-being of individuals and communities.’

Mrs Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, President of the GRNMA, emphasized the urgent need for the government to address the challenges facing nurses and midwives in the country, which continue to affect the healthcare system.

She said resolving issues such as better conditions of service for improved livelihood and payment of allowanc
es, vehicle tax waivers among others would restrict the migration of professionals, which had led to significant burden and burnout on available ones.

Mrs Ofori-Ampofo noted that nurses and midwives were the single largest health workforce in Ghana, accounting for as much as 70 per cent of the total health workforce and contributing significantly to healthcare delivery and the Ghanaian economy; therefore, investing in them was necessary to ensure their physical, mental, and financial well-being.

She also asked the government to make a degree a prerequisite for entering the nursing profession by converting all nursing and midwifery training institutes in the country into degree-granting institutions, to enhance the nursing and midwifery workforce.

‘The GRNMA has consistently advocated for this, and it is promised on the need for Ghana to have highly skilled Nurses and Midwives taking care of the Ghanaian population and also for the country to be better placed to export them for returns,’ she stated.

Profes
sor Stella Appiah, Associate Professor of Nursing Administration at Valley View University, explained that investing in the nursing profession has become essential because nurses provide crucial and person-centred care that keeps communities healthy.

‘The World Health Organisation (WHO) has indicated that for countries to attain sustainable Development Goals three, on health and wellbeing, it is estimated that an additional nine million nurses and midwives are required by the year 2030,’ she stated.

Prof Appiah noted that investing in nurses and midwives would contribute to the country’s healthcare system while also ensuring a healthy and productive workforce.

International Nurses Day was established in 1965 by the International Council of Nurses and is observed annually on May 12 in recognition of nurses and midwives’ contributions to society.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Ada?NPP Parliamentary aspirant organises free health screening?for residents


Ms. Dornukie Naa Norteye,?the New Patriotic Party’s?(NPP) Parliamentary Aspirant for the Ada Constituency, has organised a free health screening exercise in honour?in the constituency.

Residents?of Ada who reside outside the constituency also benefited from the initiative.

Ms ?Norteye said she was deeply?committed to the well-being of her constituents, particularly their preventive healthcare ahead of the December 7 elections.

According to her, such health screenings would be organised periodically to assist the less privileged and also alleviate the burden of healthcare challenges among the vulnerable.

The constituents who benefited from the health screening expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the thoughtful gesture from the parliamentary candidate.

They told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that the gesture was the first they had benefited from and therefore urged eligible voters to vote for her to continue with such initiatives.

Madam Erica Mensah, a resident of Lolonya and a beneficiary, said
that for the screening, she was not aware of having high blood pressure.

Another beneficiary, who only gave his name as James, said the medicines he received for free might cost about GHC200.00 or more if he had gone to the hospital for care; therefore, he was grateful for getting them free.

Mr. Alfred Numegbey, head of operations for the Patriotic Health Team overseeing the screening, disclosed that high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels were prevalent among participants.

He advised all individuals to prioritise regular exercise and monitor their sugar intake for improved health outcomes.

Source: Ghana News Agency

National Theatre pledges support for Afronita, performing arts professionals


Mrs Amy Frimpong, Executive Director of the National Theatre of Ghana, has offered the theatre’s support to dancer Afronita, who recently performed admirably at the Britain’s Got Talent auditions.

She said the Theatre, which oversees dance as one of the performing arts sectors, will provide facilities to enable the budding star to sharpen her skills and support other professionals in the field.

‘Our doors are open to as many professionals in the performing arts who are interested in our assistance to project their works. That is what the National Theatre does for Ghanaians,’ she said.

Mrs Frimpong stated this when the National Theatre and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture hosted Afronita, known officially as Danita Akosua Adoma, returned from the Britain’s Got Talent auditions.

Afronita and her protégé Abigail Adjiri made an astounding debut on the world-famous talent platform’s auditions early last week, receiving a standing ovation from the judges, including Simon Cowell, and the audience as wel
l.

Abigail, a hearing-impaired child, was able to dance her heart out with her mentor, Afronita. They waved the Ghana flag on stage while dressed colourfully in Kente-inspired clothes.

Mr Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister-designate for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, hosted Afronita at the Ministry offices on Friday, May 10, 2024.

He was supported by the Deputy Minister, Mr Mark Okraku Mantey, and Mrs Frimpong.

Also present at the meeting were Mansa Williams, a Board Member of the National Theatre, Dr. Fio of the National Commission on Culture (NCC) and staff of the Ministry.

Abigail had gone back to school to write her examinations at the time of the visit, but Mr Mercer said he was ready to meet her as soon as she finished.

The Minister-Designate commended Afronita on her bold decision to display her talents on the global stage with Abigail and pledged support for various stakeholders in the creative arts industry.

Afronita spoke on her experience, stating that making it to the world stage was a dream come
true for her and Abigail.

Judge Bruno on the show rated the two dancers’ choreography as ‘world-class.’

‘…You are two of the most fantastic dancers we have ever had on Britain’s Got Talent.’ Another judge, Amanda, added.

Judge Simon Cowell rated the performance as one of his ‘favourite auditions of the year.’

Afronita is a Level 300 student at the University of Ghana. She has established her own dance studio and trains young dancers.

Source: Ghana News Agency