President John Dramani Mahama has taken a decisive step by dismissing Professor Samuel Kobina Annim from his position as Government Statistician. The decision, which was confirmed in a statement dated April 4th, 2025, and signed by the Minister in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, comes as a significant shake-up in the leadership of the statistical body.
Professor Annim was appointed to the role in March 2019 under the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo. However, his tenure has now come to an end, paving the way for a new leader to take charge of the crucial statistical agency.
The President has appointed Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu as the Acting Government Statistician, pending consultations with the Council of State. Dr. Iddrisu brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, having served as the Director of the Economic Strategy and Research Division in Ghana’s Ministry of Finance.
Dr. Iddrisu is a seasoned economist and accomplished public sector leader with a distinguished career in economic analysis, forecasting, and policy research. He has played a pivotal role in shaping national economic policies and providing technical guidance for key reports and assessments.
In his previous roles, Dr. Iddrisu has demonstrated strong leadership and strategic vision, overseeing national macroeconomic modeling, long-term forecasting, and analysis of sectoral growth trends. His expertise has been instrumental in influencing key policy decisions on economic governance and development strategy.
As a part-time lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, and a former consultant to international organizations such as Oxfam GB and the World Bank, Dr. Iddrisu holds a Ph.D. in International Development Studies, a Master of Public Administration from the London School of Economics, and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Ghana.
The appointment of Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu as Acting Government Statistician marks a new chapter in the leadership of Ghana’s statistical agency. With his proven track record and deep understanding of economic issues, Dr. Iddrisu is well-positioned to lead the agency and steer it towards achieving its mandate of providing accurate and reliable statistical data for informed decision-making. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the way we live, work, and interact with one another. From social distancing measures to remote work setups, the way we navigate our daily lives has been completely transformed. As we continue to adapt to these changes, it’s important to consider how we can incorporate these new practices into our lives in a sustainable way.
One of the most noticeable changes brought about by the pandemic is the shift towards remote work. With many companies implementing work-from-home policies to reduce the spread of the virus, employees have had to adjust to a new way of working. While remote work has its benefits, such as increased flexibility and reduced commute times, it also comes with its challenges, such as feelings of isolation and difficulty in separating work and personal life.
To make remote work sustainable in the long term, it’s important for employees to establish a routine and set boundaries between work and personal life. This could include setting designated work hours, creating a dedicated workspace, and taking regular breaks to avoid burnout. Additionally, maintaining regular communication with colleagues through virtual meetings and chats can help to foster a sense of connection and collaboration.
Another aspect of life that has been significantly impacted by the pandemic is social interactions. With restrictions on gatherings and events, many people have had to find alternative ways to stay connected with friends and family. Virtual hangouts, online game nights, and outdoor meetups have become the new norm, allowing people to maintain their social connections while staying safe.
Moving forward, it’s important to continue prioritizing social interactions, even in a socially distanced world. Setting up regular virtual gatherings with friends and family, participating in online communities, and exploring outdoor activities can all help to maintain a sense of connection and community. By being intentional about nurturing relationships, we can ensure that we continue to feel supported and connected, even during these challenging times.
In addition to remote work and social interactions, the pandemic has also highlighted the importance of self-care and mental health. With heightened levels of stress and anxiety, it’s crucial for individuals to prioritize their well-being and practice self-care activities. This could include engaging in mindfulness practices, exercise, spending time in nature, or seeking professional help if needed.
As we navigate the ongoing challenges brought about by the pandemic, it’s essential to approach these changes with a sense of adaptability and resilience. By incorporating sustainable practices into our daily lives, such as setting boundaries, prioritizing social connections, and practicing self-care, we can ensure that we continue to thrive in the midst of uncertainty. Ultimately, by embracing these new ways of living, we can emerge from this crisis stronger and more connected than ever before. The Importance of Mental Health in Today’s Society
Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being that is often overlooked in today’s society. With the fast-paced nature of modern life, many individuals find themselves struggling to keep up with the demands of work, relationships, and other responsibilities. This can lead to high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which can have a detrimental impact on mental health.
It is crucial to understand the importance of mental health and to prioritize it in our daily lives. Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act, and it plays a significant role in our ability to cope with stress, handle challenges, and make decisions. When our mental health is in good shape, we are better equipped to deal with the ups and downs of life and to maintain positive relationships with others.
Unfortunately, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health issues that prevents many individuals from seeking help when they need it. This stigma can make it difficult for people to open up about their struggles and can lead to feelings of shame and isolation. It is essential to break down these barriers and create a more supportive environment for those who are struggling with mental health issues.
One of the key ways to improve mental health is through self-care practices. This can include things like regular exercise, healthy eating, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. Taking care of our physical health is closely linked to our mental health, so it is crucial to prioritize both aspects of well-being.
In addition to self-care, seeking professional help is also essential for those who are struggling with mental health issues. Therapy, counseling, and medication can all be effective tools for managing mental health conditions and improving overall well-being. It is important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that there is no shame in asking for support when it is needed.
In today’s fast-paced and stressful society, mental health has never been more important. By prioritizing mental health, breaking down stigmas, and seeking help when needed, we can create a healthier and happier society for all. It is time to prioritize mental health and make it a priority in our daily lives.
