Bussiness
JICA supports 8 startups with NINJA programme
The cohort in a photograph with stakeholders
Eight young Ghanaian entrepreneurs have successfully graduated after undergoing seven months of incubation under the Next Innovation With Japan NINJA Project organised by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
This was done in collaboration with the Ghana Enterprise Agency (GEA) and Accra Digital Centre (ADC) together with various key startup ecosystem players.
The Project NINJA programme is JICA’s global initiative to support entrepreneurs and create business innovation in emerging countries and support startups to turn their dreams into reality by uncovering prospective customers’ pain points and nurturing them continuous development.
The project received about 125 applications, which was whittled down to eight applicants who were taken through seven months of incubation to monitor their progress and give them the needed support through mentorship among others.
Each startup was supported with GH₵30,000 to help them achieve their dream and expand their businesses.
Speaking at the demonstration day held at the ADC on Tuesday October 25, 2022, the Chief Representative of JICA Ghana, Araki Yasoumichi commended the GDA, GEA and MDF West Africa for their immense contribution.
Mr.Yasoumichi was optimistic that the support given them would go a long way to expand their startups and solve problems in the society.
According to MDF West Africa’s Programme Manager, Julia Appiah, it was tough cutting down the number because the organisers received a lot of good business modules, but had to prune them down to eight and mentor them.
She said some were just ideas, and through the support today, it has become a reality. She encouraged the entrepreneurs to put whatever they have learnt to good use.
David Ofori of ADC said they have a mandate to be an instigator in the digital space and considering the focus of NINJA, it was a step in the right direction partnering them to nurture future entrepreneurs.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Ghanaian dancehall artiste Charles Nii Armah Mensah, known as Shatta Wale, has won two awards at the 43rd International Reggae and World Music Awards (IRAWMA) held in Florida over the weekend.
He picked up the Best African Dancehall Entertainer award as well as Concert of the Year for ShattaFest.
In a statement, Shatta Wale’s management expressed appreciation to the organisers and supporters of the awards.
“Management would like to sincerely appreciate the organisers of the IRAWMA awards for the recognition and continuous support for African music on the global stage.
“We also extend our deepest gratitude to fans across the world, especially the Shatta Movement fraternity, for their unwavering support, votes, and dedication throughout the years,” the statement said.
The statement added that the latest wins reaffirm the artiste’s position as one of Africa’s leading musical exports and a prominent figure in global dancehall culture.
The awards bring Shatta Wale’s total haul at the IRAWMA to 11, highlighting his continued presence on the international reggae and dancehall scene.
At last year’s edition, he won three awards: Best African Dancehall Entertainer, Best Music Video for “Killa Ji Mi”, and Best Crossover Song for “Commando” featuring Bounty Killer. -GNA
Bussiness
Global Market Volatility: Gov’t absorb GH¢2.00 per litre on diesel and GH¢0.36 per litre on petrol
Effective Thursday, April 16, 2026, which is the next pricing window, the Government will absorb GH¢2.00 per litre on diesel and GH¢ 0.36 per litre on petrol.
This intervention is intended to cushion customers and ease the cost burden on households, transport operators, and businesses.
The measure, approved by Cabinet, is in response to rising prices of petroleum products on the international market, which have significantly impacted ex-pump prices in Ghana.
This temporary intervention will remain in force for a period of one (1) month.
During this period government will continue to closely monitor developments in the global oil market and assess the need for further policy adjustments.
A statement signed by Minister of Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye noted that they remain commited to maintaining price stability, protecting livelihoods, and supporting Ghana’s economic recovery in the face of external shocks.
