Features
President’s address on economy: Critique

• President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
As the father of the nation, President Akufo-Addo could not have looked on unconcerned while the economic situation in Ghana became uncontrollable, making life uncomfortable for people in this country.
For this reason, he made an address to the nation on Sunday, October 30, 2022, to calm the nerves of everyone. The broadcast was necessary to let the people know about the steps the government was taking to address the economic issues the country faced.
What is good about the address is that the government acknowledged that, indeed, economic life had become very difficult in the country. He pointed out that life had become very difficult and that people were finding it difficult to find the means to live as they expected.
MEASURES
He cited a number of measures being taken by the government to address the problems the country was facing. He pointed out that the people in Ghana would have to cut down on their demand for or taste for foreign goods so that some foreign exchange could be saved. At the same time, he stated that there was a need to export more goods and services to other countries so that enough foreign income could be earned for the nation.
This is a valid and important point that cannot be taken for granted. If the country is able to export more to other countries and at the same time cut down on imports, it will result in a favourable trade balance. This is what the country needs, so we all need to work towards it.
BLACK MARKET
The President again said the Bank of Ghana would take steps to sanitise the black market. Those opposed to the government think that this is a fact that is already known by everybody, so it is nothing new that is being presented to the country. A careful look at the situation shows that the black market influences the fall of the cedi, so if nothing is done about it, the situation would continue to be worse. It is on this basis that we need to take serious steps to sanitise the black market in the country so that the pressure on the cedi can be reduced.
This is also a commendable action on the part of the government. However, the Bank of Ghana should not rest on its oars but work harder than before to bring the situation under control.
FOOD SECURITY
Another measure that ought to be taken is to ensure that there is food security. The results of the “Planting for Food and Jobs” initiative are that now the country can boast of an adequate food supply. In spite of this, the high fuel prices have adversely affected the transportation of these foodstuffs, thereby making their prices high in the market.
Some of the traders have taken advantage of the prevailing situation to increase the prices of goods and services. This is making life unbearable for many Ghanaians. It was, therefore, good for the President to have pointed this out and advised all traders to make life comfortable and bearable for all consumers. This piece of advice is in the right direction and ought to be taken seriously.
DOLLARS AVAILABILITY
Another measure announced by the President is the step by the Bank of Ghana to make some dollars available in the economy to ease pressure on the Ghanaian currency. This measure must be implemented and monitored well so that no leakages get into the wrong hands. If such a matter were to be effectively implemented, it would help to bring about better results as far as the economic situation is concerned.
It is important for us to note that the economic situation cannot be addressed immediately, but we need to implement short-and-medium-term measures to address the situation. In addition, we need to look into the future and implement long term measures to make the country export oriented.
EXPORT-ORIENTED
Until the economy of Ghana is export-oriented, it will be difficult to bring the situation under control and make economic life better for everyone in the country. This is what all Ghanaians ought to understand so that drastic measures implemented by the government can be supported by all stakeholders.
The situation whereby one section of the population keeps saying that they are not part of the government and thereby leave all implementation of matters to the government alone is not the best.
PARTISANSHIP
The government, supported by the people of Ghana, needs to push away partisanship so that togetherness, from all parties, will be the order of the day to encourage and cushion us to attain the ultimate purpose of economic development. The situation whereby one can predictably know the pronouncements of the representatives of the Majority and also those of the Minority over national issues ought to be examined carefully so that thorough discussions can always be carried out in the interest of the nation.
The foundation of every society is the economy. This means that if the economy is weak, socioeconomic development will be shaken. The unfavourable economic trends prevailing in the country show that we need to take serious measures to address economic matters and redirect the implementation of certain programmes to levels that can bring higher and better results for the enjoyment of everyone.
STANDARD OF LIVING
The standard of living must be enhanced. If this is done, the economic welfare of people would be enhanced, and they would be the ultimate beneficiaries. Theoretical concepts from people who parade as experts ought to be thoroughly examined so that only practical and workable solutions can be brought on board to push the agenda of development forward.
The agenda of economic development must be pushed vigorously forward so that the ultimate purpose of a good life can be attained for all people in the country. This situation can only be resolved through practical and workable solutions, not through mere theoretical concepts.
PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS
Theories are good, but for many people who make suggestions from the perspective of theory, they should be the first to honestly admit that theoretical solutions are different from practical ones. For example, if a suggestion is made that we should increase exports to strengthen the cedi, that is good, but you cannot increase exports within a day or two to get the results we all cherish. It is for this reason that ideas must be brought together for practical oriented solutions to be taken in the short term, medium term, and long term so as to be able to attain the results we all want for the country.
The economic situation is a challenge to all Ghanaians to think about innovative ways of addressing all the challenges. After the Second World War, the German economy was in shambles, and inflation was far worse than we see in Ghana today. This may sound unbelievable, but it is true because it did happen.
GOOD POLICIES
Today, the Germans have overcome their challenges, and Germany is seen as having a strong economy that is now very attractive to all Africans as well as people in other parts of the world. It is so much a matter of hard work, unity of purpose, and the timely implementation of good policies.
The “One District, One Factory”, the “Planting for Food and Jobs” and “Export” as well as many other programmes being implemented by the government are all good and must be improved upon when necessary so that the best results can be achieved for the people of Ghana.
The problems the country faces today are overcomable, so let us work towards them and bring in the needed results so that economic lives can be made bearable and comfortable for all Ghanaians.
Email address/whatsApp number of author:
Pradmat201@gmail.com (0553318911)
By Dr. Kofi Amponsah-Bediako
Features
Preventing the brain’s melting point with BOS
The human brain is a complex and delicate organ, susceptible to damage from various factors, including extreme temperatures.
The brain’s melting point, also known as the temperature threshold beyond which brain tissue begins to degrade, is a critical concern for individuals seeking to maintain optimal cognitive function.
Fortunately, the Brain Operating System (BOS) offers a revolutionary solution to prevent the brain’s melting point.
Understanding the brain’s melting point
The brain’s melting point refers to the temperature threshold beyond which brain tissue begins to degrade, leading to irreversible damage.
This temperature threshold varies depending on individual factors, such as age, health, and environmental conditions. However, research suggests that the brain’s melting point is approximately 104°F (40°C) to 107°F (42°C).
The role of BOS in preventing the brain’s melting point
BOS, a cutting-edge technology, plays a crucial role in preventing the brain’s melting point. By leveraging advanced neural interfaces and artificial intelligence, BOS monitors and regulates brain temperature, ensuring that it remains within a safe range.
How BOS prevents the brain’s melting point
BOS prevents the brain’s melting point through several mechanisms:
1. Temperature regulation: BOS continuously monitors brain temperature, adjusting neural activity to maintain a stable temperature.
2. Heat dissipation: BOS enhances heat dissipation through increased blood flow and sweating.
3. Neuro protection: BOS protects neurons from heat-induced damage.
Benefits of BOS in preventing the brain’s melting point
The benefits of BOS in preventing the brain’s melting point are numerous:
1. Prevents brain damage: BOS prevents brain damage caused by excessive heat.
2. Maintains cognitive function: BOS ensures optimal cognitive function by maintaining stable brain temperature.
3. Enhances brain resilience: BOS enhances brain resilience to temperature fluctuations.
Real-World applications of BOS
BOS has various real-world applications:
1. High-performance computing: BOS enables high-performance computing by maintaining optimal brain temperature.
2. Medical applications: BOS has medical applications, such as treating heat-related illnesses.
3. Space exploration: BOS is crucial for space exploration, where extreme temperatures pose a significant risk.
Conclusion
BOS is a revolutionary technology that prevents the brain’s melting point, ensuring optimal cognitive function and overall well-being. By leveraging advanced neural interfaces and artificial intelligence, BOS monitors and regulates brain temperature, protecting against heat-related damage.
Glossary:
1. BOS: Brain Operating System.
2. Brain’s melting point: Temperature threshold beyond which brain tissue begins to degrade.
3. Neural interface: Connects human brain with digital devices.
Contact Information
virginvtech@yahoo.com
Additional resources:
1. BOS research: Explore scientific studies.
2. Neural interface resources: Discover books and articles.
3. Brain-computer interface communities: Join online forums.
Future directions
As BOS technology continues to evolve, we can expect:
1. Improved temperature regulation: Enhanced temperature regulation mechanisms.
2. Increased cognitive enhancement: Advanced cognitive enhancement capabilities.
3. Expanded applications: New applications in various fields.
By harnessing the power of BOS, individuals can safeguard their brain health and maintain optimal cognitive function, even in extreme environments.
By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson
Features
Lotto wahala and Tuobodom palaver

In Sikaman lotto is not a game. It is a profession, a noble career which people aspire to. It is the highest paying profession after armed robbery and the most widespread job on this side of the Atlantic.
In places like China, lotto is a disease that has no cure. Once you are infected, no doctor on earth can cure you. May be Kofi Larteh, Ghana’s most celebrated magician, can help ease the symptoms, but no definitive cure will be forthcoming.
Coming back to Sikaman, lotto has been the financial messiah of many. That is how people look after their large families, pay school fees, marry two wives and do their own ‘monkey things.’
If you are very poor and you win a lottery, chances are that you will die before you even collect the money. You’ll die out of excitement or you’ll start day-dreaming in the streets and an articulated truck will hit you.
As such, very heavy wins are not recommended for poor people, lest they get listed too soon in the obituary columns.
The sad story is told of a heavy-duty caterpillar driver who had a very heavy lotto windfall of several millions, his first big win after several years.
CATERPILLAR
He was driving the caterpillar home when he saw his son running towards him, shouting. “All your numbers have dropped! All your numbers have dropped! He could not believe his ears.
All the four numbers he had staked had dropped and his son, who had gone to stake them for him, was himself over-excited. The poor caterpillar man just could not handle the good news. He suddenly stepped on the brakes and the caterpillar jolted him a trifle too violently, throwing him off. He landed right in front of the still moving heavy-duty machine and it crushed him flat.
I don’t think the bloke would have died if he had won a smaller amount. Sometimes too much cash is not good for the health.
Seldom, people get too confident and that can also result in a wake-keeping, like that of a man who used his lifetime savings and borrowed extra money to crack the machine with a two-sure that the compiler must compulsory drop or the world will end.
Even the shadows of the numbers or their counterparts were nowhere near the winning numbers. His shock-absorbers crumbled under the weight of the heavy disappointment. He crashed to the floor and started foaming at the mouth. He was declared dead on arrival at the nearest clinic.
WINDFALL
Recently, there was a countrywide lotto windfall, and in Kumasi it was more than a festival. Most stakers had between ¢30m and ¢40 million on two-sure that the lotto magicians had predicted at least three weeks earlier,
Kejetia chop bars were besieged with overnight millionaires, carrying huge appetites induced by Opeimu Bitters popularly called Opeimu Peters. All the meat and mudfish got sold out within an hour and procurement agents had to double up to restock.
While some were celebrating, others were weeping and gnashing teeth. The problem was that, three weeks beforehand, the two sure numbers were declared by all the lotto sorcerers, dreamers, magicians, tellers and all the self-appointed and self-promoted forecasters.
Everybody including 10-year-olds, who staked and lost. The following week, they were advised to continue staking. The faithful did continue but the faithless stopped. All of them lost. In the third week or so, a good number of confident stakers had lost faith in the two numbers. That was when the number landed.
So the windfall was for only those who had the unshakeable faith in the numbers. See what faith can do? It can move dollars. Don’t waver, so saith the holy scriptures.
The faithless indeed gnashed teeth. The winners on the other hand celebrated with a song that is as controversial as the business of lotto. It is a song played by the group called Nkasei and has something to do with a town in the Brong Ahafo Region called Tuobodom whose capital we hear is Jinijini.
I hear it is a derogatory song and the queen mother of Tuobodom got charged and breathed out electric current during her protest on air. She allegedly ended up demanding a mobile phone from Nkasei so that she could communicate with them to settle the matter peacefully, lest wahala.
Well, the song is rising up the charts and Nkasei are making the dough, but should it be at the expense of a whole townsfolk, their forebears and generations to come?
WATERPROOF
Waterproof, the famous comedian, was allegedly given hefty slaps at the Kumasi rail station by some Frafra jingoists who felt he was deriding their tribe. And Bob Okala had to run with his tail between his legs when he was confronted and realised that slaps were going to be visited on his lean face.
Let’s not use words and lyrics to cause discomfort to others.
This article was first published on Saturday July 9, 2005