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.
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
FAWE Ghana, FAWE Africa board meet Gender Minister
Prior to the official launch of the FAWE Ghana Stragetic Plan and the Mastercard Foundation Phase II Programme, the Ghana Chapter of the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE-Ghana), and the FAWE Africa Board Members, engaged the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, in discussions on strengthening gender-inclusive education and skills development for marginalized youth.
The team outlined the organization’s long-standing commitment to promoting access to quality education, particularly for girls and disadvantaged groups.
It also highlighted the organization’s decade-long scholarship programme across Africa, which has supported young boys and girls in secondary and tertiary education.
Discussions also touched on the importance of data-driven policy decisions, including tracking gender demographics from birth to better inform future interventions.
The Minister, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, commended FAWE’s efforts and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating on initiatives that enhance educational access for vulnerable groups.
She emphasized the need for gender balance in advocacy efforts, noting that while empowering girls remains a priority, ensuring equal opportunities for boys is equally essential.
She further underscored the government’s commitment to expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key driver of youth employment and economic empowerment.
She noted that under Ghana’s human capital development strategy, enhancing access to quality education especially for marginalized groups is a top priority.
As part of its expanded initiative, FAWE has introduced a bridging programme in collaboration with partner universities, called the FAWE MasterCard Programme, to prepare students for academic and vocational success.
This initiative is a significant advancement in equipping over 1,100 young individuals in Ghana, particularly girls, for leadership roles in a swiftly changing world characterized by innovation and transformation.
Also in attendance was the Chief Director, Dr. Afisah Zakariah, who reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to bridging educational gaps and promoting skills development for all.
