News
Ministry to ensure adherence to COVID-19 protocol

The Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (MELR), will from July 1, 2020, embark on a nationwide inspection tour of workplaces, to ensure strict adherence to health protocol, to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The random inspection of offices, shops and factories will also ensure strict compliance with and enforcement of all COVID-19 protocols and guidelines outlined by government, the World Health Organisation and the Ghana Health Services.
A statement issued by the Public Affairs Unit of the ministry, and copied the Ghanaian Times, in Accra, stated that MELR had noticed with grave concern the spread of COVID-19 infections at workplaces, despite measures taken by government to curtail the spread of the virus.
“The MELR and its social partners (Employers and Organised labour) issued a ten (10) point communique urging employers and workers in general to continue to observe the necessary protocols and guidelines in order to keep workers safe,” the statement indicated.
It said as part of the inspection, the MELR envisaged strict adherence to management’s commitment and responsibilities to reduce the risk of COVID-19 at a particular workplace.
“A response plan indicating preparedness for COVID-19 prevention at the workplace and regular consultation of occupational health services, local public health authorities and other partners to promote and develop information materials and other technical advice to prevent risk of exposure,” the statement added.
It said “workplace system provides reliable information on emerging situations of COVID-19, monitoring and evaluation mechanism for COVID-19 prevention”.
The statement disclosed that there would be risk assessment of potential interaction between workers and non-workers at the workplace, and training of management and workers on the correct use, maintenance and disposal of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE),” it indicated.
It said “there should be existence of an isolation room for persons who develop COVID-19 symptoms at the workplace, while awaiting transfer to an appropriate health facility.”
Source: Ghanaian Times
News
Government, GoldFields,reach agreement on Damang Mine

The Government of Ghana and Goldfields Ghana Limited have reached an amicable agreement on a transitional plan for the Damang Mine.
The operational modalities of the transition involve issuing a new 12-month mining lease to Goldfields’ subsidiary, Abosso Goldfields Limited, pending parliamentary ratification in
May 2025.
Under the new arrangement, Goldfields will resume open-pit mining during the transition period, safeguarding jobs and conducting feasibility studies to establish Damang’s reserves and mine life.
At the same time, the processing of existing stockpiles will continue under the supervision of a joint management team composed of representatives from the Government of Ghana
and Goldfields. The two parties will work in good faith to secure a successful transition and eventual transfer of a viable mine to Ghanaian ownership.
Both parties have agreed to advance discussions in good faith on the renewal of the lease for the Tarkwa mine, due in 2027, and pledged to work together to enhance Ghana’s
potential in the mining sector as a favourable investment destination,
News
Ophelia Crossland appointed as new Creative Director of Nineteen57

In an exciting turn for Ghana’s fashion industry, celebrated designer Ophelia Crossland has officially assumed leadership of Nineteen57, the iconic menswear brand founded by her husband, Kofi Okyere-Darko (KOD).
This transition follows KOD’s recent appointment as Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President—a prestigious national role that reflects his continued service to Ghana on a global scale.
With this new chapter in public service, the reins of Nineteen57 have now passed to Ophelia Crossland, who will take on both the day-to-day operations and creative direction of the brand.
Ophelia Crossland, the CEO and founder of her eponymous womenswear label, brings over a decade of experience in luxury fashion.
Known for her keen eye for detail and mastery in haute couture, her leadership is expected to usher in a new era for Nineteen57—one that blends timeless African sophistication with modern sensibilities for the stylish gentleman.
“Nineteen57 has always stood for bold sophistication and African excellence,” said Ophelia Crossland. I’m excited to build on that legacy and explore new creative horizons with the team,” she said.
The transition marks a defining moment for the fashion power couple—Ophelia taking the creative lead in fashion innovation while KOD serves the nation in his new diplomatic role.
Together, they continue to elevate Ghana’s presence across fashion and governance.