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Eid goes virtual amid coronavirus pandemic
For the first time in the Ramadan’s history in Ghana, the huge gathering of people for congregational prayers at the Independence Square to mark the Eid ul-Fitr in Ghana was missing due to the novel coronavirus wreaking havoc globally.
This year, the celebration was marked virtually, as the president of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, together with the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia joined the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu and the leadership of the Muslim community.
The day which was observed in the studios of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) from 9am on Sunday was streamed live for all Muslims in the country.
Muslims have had to fast without the traditional congregational prayers, a difficult sacrifice they had to make in the month of Ramadan due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
The novelty was replicated across the country where Muslims observed the day from their various homes.
Muslim organisations and individuals implored technological and virtual alternatives to keep Eid traditions alive, such as virtual sermons, social media celebrations and online events.
Eid al-Fitr marked the end of the fasting month of Ramadan for Muslims across the globe. People usually celebrate by traveling, visiting family and gathering for lavish meals, and in some cases musical concerts, all of which was conspicuously missing, due to the measures put in place by the government to contain the virus.
Eid is normally celebrated after a month of fasting, spiritual renewal, forgiveness and the expression of gratitude to Allah.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
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Prophet Courage Heavens set to launch ‘Predestination’ book on March 23
Prophet Courage A. Heavens is set to launch the much-awaited book titled ‘Predestination’ on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 5:00PM.
The launch, which is expected to impact lives, will take place at Crossgates Ministries, Flattop, off N1 Highway, opposite Angel Hauz.
The book is aimed at addressing the way people struggle to understand how free will and destiny align.
It is also aimed at providing clarity on God’s sovereignty and one’s place in His divine plan.
The various chapters of the book address various issues through scriptures and personal stories.
Committed to impacting society, part of the proceeds from the book will go into Courage Heavens Education Legacy (CHEL), an educational foundation transforming lives.
CHEL is dedicated to providing financial support and mentorship to brilliant but needy students, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities for a better future.
Prophet Courage Heavens is a prolific writer and previously authored Eli Eli Lama Sabachthani, a powerful book that encourages unwavering faith in times of trials.
In addition, he has written seven more prophetic and life-changing books that are yet to be published.
He is dedicated to raising the next generation for impactful ministry. As the leader of Crossgates Ministries, he nurtures believers in faith and purpose.
News
Health minister launches Ghana Medical Cares Trust Fund Taskforce
The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has officially inaugurated the Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund (MahamaCares) Taskforce to oversee the successful implementation of the initiative.
MahamaCares, an initiative of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, aims to provide dedicated financial support to individuals suffering from chronic and debilitating illnesses.
The initiative is designed to ensure fairness in healthcare access, particularly for those facing financial barriers to treatment.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Akandoh highlighted that while the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has improved medical coverage, it does not completely ease the financial burden of treating chronic diseases.
He stated, “The Ghana Medical Trust Fund is a bold response to this challenge. It’s purpose is clear: no Ghanaian should choose between their health and financial ruin.”
He noted that the taskforce has been tasked with developing a strong policy and legal framework to establish MahamaCares as a statutory entity.
In addition, the team will be responsible for designing a sustainable funding model to ensure the long-term viability of the fund, setting clear eligibility and disbursement criteria to guarantee fairness, and evaluating Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure to recommend improvements for better accessibility.
Rev. Prof. Emeritus Seth Aryeetey, Chairman of the nine-member taskforce, expressed his immerse gratitude to the President and the Minister for the opportunity to serve.
He assured that the taskforce would work diligently to ensure the success of the MahamaCares initiative and deliver on its mandate effectively.
Other members of the taskforce include; Prof. Emeritus Binka – former Vice Chancellor of the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Prof. Margaret Kweku – Public Health Consultant, Dr Alfred Doku – Consultant Cardiologist, Dr. Radolph Nsor-Ambala – financial expert, Dr Anthony Gingong – representative of the National Health Insurance Trust Fund, Dr. Anthony Seddoh – Health Policy and financing expert, Anna Pearl Akiwumi Siriboe – lawyer and the Attorney General’s representative for the committee and Dr Belinda Afriyie – Public Health Consultant Secretary for the Taskforce.
