TRUMP WARNS STRAIT OF HORMUZ DEADLINE United States President Donald Trump intensified his rhetoric against Iran on Sunday, promising a devastating military campaign if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened to international traffic by Tuesday. The President issued a series of blunt warnings via social media, specifically targeting Iran’s power grid and transportation networks. The ultimatum marks a sharp escalation in a conflict that has now entered its second month, with the global economy feeling the strain of disrupted energy corridors. “Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!!” Trump stated in a Truth Social post. The President characterized the Iranian leadership as “crazy bastards” and vowed they would be “living in Hell” should the deadline pass without compliance. The President’s plan to target civilian infrastructure has drawn immediate fire from legal experts and political opponents. International humanitarian law generally prohibits the destruction of facilities essential to the civilian population, and critics warn such strikes could be classified as war crimes. Senator Tim Kaine, D-Va., lambasted the administration’s approach during an appearance on reporters’ programs. Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, described the President’s rhetoric as “embarrassing and juvenile.” He argued that such aggressive posturing endangers American service members who may be captured in the future. “If you send the message that there’s no quarter for the folks on the other side, that really encourages them to mistreat our folks,” Kaine said. He further criticized the White House for what he described as “the absence of a plan, the absence of a clear rationale, no effort to get allies on board The diplomatic heat coincides with high-stakes military operations. President Trump confirmed Sunday that the United States successfully rescued a “highly respected Colonel” who had been missing since his F-15E Strike Eagle was downed over Iran last week. The President hailed the mission as “one of the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in U.S. History.” While the U.S. celebrated the recovery of the “seriously wounded” officer, Tehran offered a different narrative. Iranian state television broadcast images of wreckage, claiming they shot down a transport plane and two helicopters during the rescue. Separately, U.S. officials confirmed the pilot of an A-10 Warthog was forced to eject over Kuwait after being hit by Iranian fire. Iran’s military joint command countered by claiming four U.S. aircraft were destroyed during the rescue operation. A spokesman warned via IRNA news agency: “If you commit aggression again and strike civilian facilities, our responses will be more forceful.” A regional intelligence official, speaking to the media on condition of anonymity, contradicted Tehran’s claims regarding the rescue mission. The official stated the U.S. military intentionally blew up two of its own transport planes due to technical malfunctions to protect sensitive technology The conflict is no longer confined to U.S.-Iranian exchanges. Iran has expanded retaliatory strikes to Gulf Arab states hosting U.S. military installations. On Saturday, a projectile struck an auxiliary building near Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant, killing one person, though operations were unaffected. Subsequently, Russia’s Rosatom evacuated 198 staff members from the site. On Sunday, Iranian drone attacks targeted petrochemical plants and power facilities in Kuwait, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. The disruption has sent shockwaves through energy markets. The spot price for current physical cargoes of Brent crude oil soared Thursday to $141.36 (approx. GH¢1,556.37), the highest level since the 2008 financial crisis. The spot price reflects demand for Brent oil to be delivered in the next 10 to 30 days. The high price of immediate oil deliveries points to current physical supply constraints due to the huge disruption triggered by Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The price was $32.33 (approx. GH¢355.95) higher than the Brent crude futures contract for June delivery, which closed at $109.03 (approx. GH¢1,200.42) on Thursday The escalating tension in the Middle East has triggered immediate economic repercussions across Africa. In Ghana, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) recently reported a surge in fuel prices, with petrol rising to GH¢13.30 per litre and diesel to GH¢17.10 per litre. Experts warn that a prolonged blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could increase Ghana’s annual oil import bill by $2.4 billion (approx. GH¢26.42 billion), potentially reversing recent gains in inflation management. The African Union (AU) has called for “urgent de-escalation,” warning that the conflict threatens food security and economic resilience across the continent, as 20% of the world’s oil supply remains at risk. Despite the looming deadline, some diplomatic threads remain active. Oman’s foreign ministry reported meeting with Iranian officials to discuss visions for ensuring transit. “During the meeting, experts from both sides presented a number of visions and proposals that will be studied,” the Omani statement on X read. Concurrently, Iran’s foreign minister has, in principle, left the door open for peace talks with the U.S. amid ongoing mediation from Pakistan. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed gratitude for the efforts in Islamabad but gave no indication of Tehran’s willingness to bow to Trump’s specific demands. “We are deeply grateful to Pakistan for its efforts and have never refused to go to Islamabad. What we care about are the terms of a conclusive and lasting END to the illegal war that is imposed on us,” Araghchi said on X. In a supporting statement on Saturday, Pakistani officials told the media that efforts to broker a ceasefire are “right on track Closing the Window for Negotiation The window for these diplomatic efforts is rapidly closing. On March 26, President Trump extended a pause in attacking Iran’s energy facilities by 10 days to April 6 at the request of the Islamic Republic’s government. In a televised address from the White House on Wednesday, the President told Americans he expects the war to last another two to three weeks but insisted the conflict was nearing its conclusion. “We are going to finish the job, and we’re going to finish it very fast,” he said. With the 48-hour countdown under way, the President’s patience appears to have reached its limit. “Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT. Time is running out – 48 hours before all Hell will reign [sic] down on them,” Trump warned Saturday in a Truth Social post. He is scheduled to speak from the Oval Office on Monday at 1 p.m. ET (5 p.m. GMT). As the deadline approaches, the international community remains caught between the White House’s demand for an immediate reopening of the Strait and Tehran’s insistence on ending what it terms an “illegal war.” With global markets and regional stability hanging in the balance, the coming 48 hours represent a critical juncture that will determine if diplomacy can still avert a total regional conflagration. 6th April,2026

IRAN DOWNS WARPLANE The United States military expanded search and rescue operations Saturday following the downing of an American warplane over Iranian territory. This incident marks the first loss of U.S. aircraft within Iran since the conflict began six weeks ago. Iranian authorities identified the downed craft as an F-15E Strike Eagle and have publicly called for citizens to locate the “enemy pilot” in exchange for a reward. “If you capture and hand over a pilot or pilots of the enemy alive… you will receive a valuable reward and prize,” an Iranian news anchor announced. Videos emerged Saturday appearing to show Iranian police in the town of Charam firing at specialized Black Hawk helicopters participating in the recovery effort. Pentagon officials confirmed that one crew member was successfully rescued following the Friday engagement. However, the status of a second service member remains unknown. Military analysts note that crews are extensively trained in “SERE” (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) protocols to lower their profile in hostile terrain. While Iran claimed a second aircraft crashed in the Persian Gulf, U.S. officials clarified that an A-10 Thunderbolt II was indeed struck on Friday. The pilot successfully navigated the “Warthog” out of Iranian airspace before ejecting and was subsequently rescued. These two incidents bring the total number of manned U.S. aircraft lost during this conflict to at least seven. The loss of aviation assets occurred only two days after President Donald Trump delivered a national address claiming victory. During that speech, the President asserted that the U.S. had “beaten and completely decimated Iran” and promised to “finish the job, and we’re going to finish it very fast.” Brigadier General Alireza Elhami, commander of Iran’s Joint Air Defense Base, countered that the downing was the result of “innovations” in air defense that have caused “confusion and bewilderment for the enemy.” Democratic Rep. Seth Moulton criticized the President’s earlier claims, stating the Commander-in-Chief “doesn’t know what he’s talking about.” The conflict reached new levels of intensity as the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran reported an airstrike near the Bushehr nuclear facility. Simultaneously, U.S.-Israeli strikes hit the prestigious Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran. A separate strike reportedly “wiped out” a popular music school in Tehran that had served as a community haven. Separately, a missile strike in a residential area of North Tehran killed at least one person and gutted buildings. In a separate retaliatory wave, Iranian fire targeted Kuwait’s Mina al-Ahmadi oil refinery, while the Israel Defense Forces reported search and rescue teams were responding to “reports of impact” at sites in central Israel. Regional instability spread to the United Arab Emirates as an Iranian drone struck the Dubai headquarters of Oracle. The Revolutionary Guard had previously named Oracle as one of 17 U.S. tech targets, noting that co-founder Larry Ellison is an ally of President Trump. While the Dubai Media Office described the event as a minor incident, falling debris from intercepted attacks also caused two fires at Abu Dhabi gas facilities, resulting in at least one fatality Iran continues to maintain a strategic grip on the Strait of Hormuz, causing severe disruptions to global markets. The disruption has reduced global oil and gas supply by approximately one-fifth, triggering an “everything crisis” as prices for petrochemical derivatives like plastic, rubber, and polyester soar. Global food prices rose 2.4% in March alone due to energy costs. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf issued a veiled threat Saturday against the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Meanwhile, the UN Security Council has postponed a vote on a Bahraini resolution to secure the Strait of Hormuz until next week. Diplomats cite resistance from China and Russia, with Beijing’s envoy warning that the resolution could “legitimize the unlawful use of force The war has claimed thousands of lives across multiple borders since Feb. 28. Indonesia expressed “grave concern” after three of its peacekeepers serving with UNIFIL were injured in southern Lebanon, marking the third such incident in a week. While President Trump has threatened “much more to follow,” domestic opposition is growing. Republican Senator John Curtis announced he cannot support further funding for military operations without a formal declaration of war from Congress. President Trump is asking Congress for a historic $1.5 trillion for defense, a 40% increase intended to build the “Golden Dome” missile defense system. This request follows a string of recent losses, including three F-15s lost to “friendly fire” on March 2 and a KC-135 tanker crash on March 12. Amidst the war effort, internal turmoil hit the Pentagon as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth abruptly fired Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George. Sources indicate the two were at loggerheads over personnel management and Hegseth’s alleged sidelining of officers—including female and Black officers—for political reasons. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni publicly disagreed with President Trump’s criticism of European allies, stating her priority is defending national interests. This rift follows Italy’s recent move to block a U.S. aircraft from using a military base in Sicily. Despite these tensions, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is scheduled to meet with Trump Wednesday to discuss the alliance’s role in the conflict. The downing of American aircraft and the subsequent “enemy pilot” hunt represent a significant shift in the war’s friction, moving the conflict from a distance-based air campaign to a direct confrontation on Iranian soil. As both sides target critical infrastructure—ranging from research universities to desalination plants—the window for a diplomatic resolution appears to be closing in favor of a broader regional escalation that tests the limits of both military technology and international alliances. 6th April,2026

DR CONGO TO RECEIVE DEPORTEES FROM US The Democratic Republic of Congo has entered a formal agreement with the Trump administration to accept third-country nationals deported from the United States. Kinshasa confirmed the arrangement on Sunday, marking Congo as the latest African partner in a growing U.S. program. This initiative redirects migrants to secondary nations rather than their countries of origin. The deal underscores a significant shift in U.S. interior enforcement, moving toward a globalized removal network that often targets migrants from South America, including Venezuelans. Arrivals are scheduled to begin this month. The Congolese Ministry of Communications has not yet specified the exact number of individuals expected or a definitive start date. According to the government statement, the United States will fund the entirety of the operation. Congo will incur no costs as the U.S. manages all necessary logistics. Local authorities have already prepared housing facilities near the capital city of Kinshasa to accommodate the incoming deportees. The Congolese government characterizes the arrangement as a “temporary” measure. Officials stated the deal reflects Congo’s “commitment to human dignity and international solidarity.” Despite the broad scope of the program, Kinshasa maintains that it will retain sovereignty over the process. The government clarified that “Each situation will be subject to individual review in accordance with the laws of the Republic and national security requirements.” No automatic transfers are currently planned under this framework. Congo joins at least seven other African nations that have signed similar deportation deals with the Trump administration. Previous agreements include partnerships with Ghana, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, South Sudan, and Eswatini. These nations often face significant trade and aid restrictions under current U.S. policies. A recent report by the Democratic staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee indicates the administration has spent at least $40 million to deport approximately 300 migrants to these third-party countries. This spending represents a high per-capita investment in deterrence, estimated at over $130,000 per deportee. The program has faced intense scrutiny from legal experts and human rights organizations. Critics point to the poor human rights records and repressive nature of several participating governments. A primary point of concern involves migrants who hold protection orders from U.S. immigration judges. These orders are intended to prevent their return to home countries where they face safety risks. Legal advocates argue that sending these individuals to third countries may circumvent established humanitarian protections by placing them in jurisdictions with limited judicial oversight. This deportation agreement emerges alongside significant regional diplomatic efforts. The Trump administration is currently working to implement a peace deal between Congo and Rwanda known as the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity. Furthermore, the deal coincides with a strategic push to secure U.S. access to Congo’s vast reserves of critical minerals under a recently signed Strategic Partnership Agreement. These economic and security priorities provide a backdrop for the expanding migration partnership between Washington and Kinshasa. The migration deal appears closely linked to the implementation of the Strategic Asset Reserve (SAR) established in early 2026. Under this framework, the Congolese government has designated a list of high-value mining assets for which U.S. companies will receive preferential investment access. This mechanism aims to secure supply chains for cobalt and copper while countering Chinese dominance in the sector. By linking immigration logistics to resource security, the administration is utilizing “SAR designations” as a primary tool of economic and diplomatic leverage in Central Africa. While the Congolese government was vocal in its announcement, the United States has maintained a policy of strategic discretion. When questioned about the specifics of the arrangement on Sunday, a State Department spokesperson stated that the administration had “no comment on the details of our diplomatic communications with other governments.” This mirrors previous maneuvers where third-country deals were finalized via quiet diplomatic notes rather than public treaties. However, sources within the administration indicate that these “logistical partnerships” are viewed as essential to the broader 2026 enforcement agenda, often acting as a prerequisite for the lifting of U.S. sanctions or the granting of “favored nation” trade status. The agreement represents a delicate balancing act for both nations. For Washington, the deal provides a vital outlet for its interior enforcement goals while securing a foothold in the global race for green energy minerals. For Kinshasa, the “zero-cost” arrangement offers a path toward rehabilitated diplomatic standing and regional stability. However, the ultimate success of the program will likely depend on whether the promised “individual reviews” can withstand the logistical pressures of a high-speed deportation system. As the first flights prepare for departure, the international community remains watchful of how this transactional diplomacy will impact the fundamental rights of those caught in its wake. 6th April,2026

BLOODIED HARPER TO UNIFY TITLES Caroline Dubois floored and bloodied Terri Harper before outpointing her British rival to become the unified lightweight world champion at London’s Olympia. After a dull first half of the contest, Dubois dropped Harper with a classy jab and left hook in the sixth round. Doncaster’s Harper, who suffered a nasty cut after a clash of heads in the eighth, showed great spirit to continue throwing until the final round. The judges scored the fight 98-91, 97-92 and 98-91 to Dubois, who adds Harper’s WBO belt to her WBC title. “Terri had a good showing and showed why she is a very good boxer,” Dubois told Sky Sports. “From my side it was never personal; it was personal for Terri. I am a fighter and an entertainer. I put myself out there to show up for you guys, and talk the talk to be entertaining. “That is why this fight was the most talked about. “I felt like I started really well. Terri was very negative and we knew she was going to be. It was tricky to get her.” The event marked the first United Kingdom show staged by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) as Londoner Dubois extended her unbeaten record to 13 wins and one draw. Harper – a three-weight world champion – drops to 16 wins, three defeats and two draws. 6th April,2026

VANDERPUYE SLAMS BLACK STARS Former Sports Minister, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye has sounded the alarm on Ghana’s Black Stars, pinning their slide on a glaring absence of succession planning after the 2014 World Cup. Speaking on Citi Sports, the former Sports Minister blasted: “The team we built for the 2014 World Cup had reached its peak and was now declining, we should’ve forged a new core for the next 10-20 years.” Vanderpuye zeroed in on axed coach Otto Addo, dismissing him as a “development guy, not even reserve-level for elites.” He argued Ghana squandered momentum, leaving the team adrift without fresh talent pipelines or strategic vision. The fallout? A nightmare stretch: winless at 2023 AFCON, a humiliating bottom finish in 2025 AFCON qualifiers, their first miss since 2004 and a dive to 74th in FIFA rankings by April 2026. This “catastrophic neglect,” as Vanderpuye calls it, has fans and pundits reeling, with World Cup Group L (England, Croatia, Panama) looming large. Urging reform, he demands GFA overhaul: invest in youth systems now, or watch Ghana’s football legacy crumble further. 6th April,2026

RNP FOUNDATION The event, held on April 4, 2026, at Tamekloe Gardens, brought together traditional leaders, local authorities, educators, and residents, marking the foundation’s first major project since its establishment The RNP Foundation has commissioned a water storage tank and launched a major tree planting initiative in Keta Central as part of efforts to promote environmental sustainability and support local communities Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Richard Norkplim Pomeyie, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to tackling climate change through practical, community-based solutions. He explained that the project goes beyond infrastructure, describing it as a symbol of “hope, resilience and a shared vision for a better future.” The water storage facility is expected to address ongoing water challenges in the area, where residents often struggle with irregular water supply. Programme Coordinator, Ing. Raymond Setsoafia Avevor, noted during a media interaction that the foundation stepped in after identifying water shortages in the community. “If you go around, you will realise that taps are not flowing. This storage system will help residents have access to water during such periods,” he said. As part of the event, the foundation also launched its ambitious “Operation One Million Trees” campaign, aimed at restoring ecosystems and improving environmental resilience across Ghana. The first phase targets the planting of 50,000 trees, starting from Keta and nearby communities, including Anloga. About 500 seedlings, including coconut, acacia, royal palm, and fruit-bearing trees such as orange, were distributed to schools, churches, and community groups to encourage participation and ownership. Mr Avevor emphasised that the initiative will be rolled out in phases across the country, with the long-term goal of planting one million trees nationwide. “We want to start from our home region and expand across Ghana. This is a national effort,” he said. The foundation is also working in collaboration with the Forestry Commission, which provided support through the supply of some seedlings. Beyond environmental action, the event featured the donation of traditional “Akpese” drums and musical instruments to promote cultural preservation and youth development The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including; Torgbi James Ocloo V, Dufia of Keta, Municipal Chief Executive Wisdom Bondieu Seade, and education stakeholders from A.M.E Zion Basic School and Ketasco Basic School, among others. The RNP Foundation says it will continue to engage communities, educate the public on climate change, and build partnerships to support its environmental and social initiatives. 6th April,2026

MAHAMA CALLS FOR EMERGENCY CABINET MEETING Fuel prices in Ghana surged significantly effective from April 1, 2026, following the escalation of the Iran conflict, which has driven global crude oil prices sharply higher. According to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), petrol prices rose by approximately 15% to around GH¢13.30 per litre, while diesel increased by about 19% to GH¢17.10 per litre for the April 1–15 pricing window. This marks one of the steepest hikes in recent months and forms part of a series of upward adjustments driven by international factors, including higher global oil prices and supply disruptions from the Middle East conflict. President John Dramani Mahama has called for an emergency cabinet meeting to address the sharp rise in fuel prices, which has been triggered by the ongoing conflict in Iran and the broader Middle East region. Delivering the keynote address on the second day of the Kwahu Business Forum on Saturday, April 4, 2026, President Mahama stated that the meeting aims to explore practical measures to cushion Ghanaians from the impact of soaring fuel prices. I have called for this emergency cabinet meeting to decide on specific measures we can take to cushion petroleum prices while we hope the conflict comes to an end. There are adjustments we can make, particularly in the margins, to help maintain relatively stable prices as we pray for the war to cease.” “The government remains fully committed to easing the burden on citizens. The cabinet will examine various aspects of the fuel price build-up and consider interventions to provide relief.” President Mahama further assured the public that the government has implemented measures to build a resilient economy capable of withstanding external shocks such as the Middle East conflict. “I can confidently tell you that the economy will not collapse because of the war in Iran,” he emphasised. The President also commended transport unions for their restraint in not increasing lorry fares despite the spike in fuel prices. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to the transport unions for their patience and understanding. We did not anticipate this situation, but they have held off on increasing fares. I am confident they will continue to exercise restraint as we work together to improve the situation,” he said. He urged citizens to remain patient as the government works tirelessly to stabilise fuel prices and support Ghanaians through the current challenges. Although the relatively stable Ghanaian cedi has helped moderate the impact, the increases have raised concerns about higher transportation costs and inflation. The government is currently reviewing options such as reducing fuel margins and levies to ease the burden on consumers. 6th April,2026

SIGA’S POLICY OF ENCOURAGING INTER-TRADING At the heart of the matter is the nature of SIGA’s statutory role. SIGA exists to oversee and administer the State’s interests in specified entities, promote efficient and profitable operations, improve corporate governance, monitor performance, and ensure that these entities contribute meaningfully to national development. That mandate would be unduly narrow if it were interpreted to mean that SIGA may only observe performance after the fact but may not encourage strategic conduct capable of improving value creation across the State’s ownership portfolio. On the contrary, if the State is the shareholder or beneficial owner of a broad portfolio of enterprises, it is entirely legitimate for the State, acting through SIGA, to encourage patterns of commercial cooperation that reduce leakages, create synergies, and improve aggregate returns within that portfolio. Inter-trading, in this context, is not an arbitrary preference; it is an ownership strategy aimed at maximizing public value from public assets. The rationale for such a policy is straightforward. Where one specified entity produces goods or services that are required by another specified entity, it is commercially sensible for SIGA to encourage the consideration of intra-portfolio transactions, provided those transactions are competitive, lawful, and aligned with operational needs. This is because such arrangements can help retain revenues within the State ecosystem, deepen institutional collaboration, improve economies of scale, reduce transaction inefficiencies, and enhance the financial performance of multiple entities at once. A fragmented approach in which state entities routinely bypass one another and channel business outward, even where suitable internal capacity exists, may weaken the collective strength of the portfolio and dissipate value that could otherwise be preserved for the benefit of the State and, ultimately, the public. Encouraging inter-trading is therefore not merely a matter of preference; it is a reasonable tool of portfolio optimization. This policy is also defensible on efficiency grounds. In many cases, specified entities already operate in adjacent or complementary sectors. Encouraging them to explore business opportunities among themselves may reduce duplicative search costs, shorten procurement cycles where lawful processes are followed, strengthen predictability of demand, and foster long-term institutional partnerships. Such cooperation can also stabilize public enterprises that have viable commercial offerings but face demand uncertainty, thereby supporting their profitability and dividend-paying capacity. From a public finance perspective, this is significant. If state-owned or state-controlled entities become stronger, more efficient, and more profitable through legitimate commercial exchanges, the State stands to benefit through improved dividends, reduced need for bailouts, enhanced tax performance, and greater resilience of strategic national assets. Potential criticism often centers on fairness, especially the concern that encouraging inter-trading may distort competition or amount to preferential treatment. That concern deserves a serious answer. The correct response is that SIGA’s policy, properly framed, does not compel blind patronage, nor does it require entities to contract with one another irrespective of price, quality, competence, or legal compliance. Rather, it encourages entities to give due consideration to credible providers within the State’s ownership portfolio where such providers are capable of meeting the relevant commercial, technical, and regulatory requirements. In that form, the policy is not unfair. It does not abolish standards. It does not nullify fiduciary duties. It does not authorize wasteful or uneconomic transactions. Instead, it invites entities to factor the broader public interest and portfolio value into decisions that are still subject to established governance and procurement disciplines. Indeed, fairness must be understood not only from the perspective of external market actors, but also from the perspective of the State as owner. The State is entitled to organize its ownership interests in a manner that protects and enhances the value of its investments, so long as it does so within the law. A policy that encourages state entities to consider doing business with one another, where such business is commercially sound, is no more inherently unfair than a private holding company encouraging collaboration among its subsidiaries or portfolio companies. What matters is that the transactions remain transparent, justifiable, and compliant with applicable procurement and competition norms. Therefore, the fairness objection fails if it assumes that encouragement is equivalent to coercion or that strategic coordination is equivalent to illegality. The issue of compliance is equally important. Any defensible inter-trading policy must operate within the framework of existing law, including procurement law, public financial management rules, enabling statutes, sector-specific regulations, and corporate governance standards. SIGA’s encouragement of inter-trading must therefore be understood as guidance operating within, not outside, these legal boundaries. Boards and management remain responsible for ensuring that each transaction complies with the Public Procurement Act where applicable, satisfies internal approval processes, reflects value for money, and is consistent with the entity’s mandate and fiduciary obligations. In other words, SIGA may encourage inter-trading as a strategic ownership objective, but the implementation of any specific transaction must still pass the usual tests of legality, prudence, and commercial reasonableness. This is precisely why the policy is defensible: it does not seek to replace the law but to guide entities toward lawful, mutually beneficial commercial relationships. A further concern may be that such a policy intrudes into managerial autonomy. That concern is overstated. There is a crucial distinction between strategic ownership guidance and operational micromanagement. SIGA’s role is not to negotiate contracts on behalf of entities or to usurp the decision-making powers of boards and executives. Its role is to articulate expectations that align with the State’s ownership objectives, including value creation, financial discipline, and coordinated performance improvement. Within that framework, management retains responsibility for due diligence, supplier evaluation, contract negotiation, and compliance. Far from undermining autonomy, this approach preserves the proper institutional balance: SIGA sets the ownership logic and performance expectation; boards and management make the operational decisions in conformity with law and governance rules. There is also a strong developmental justification for inter-trading among specified entities. Many state entities operate in sectors with strategic national importance, including energy, transport, finance, insurance, logistics, and infrastructure. When capable public enterprises transact with one another, the effect may extend beyond narrow revenue gains. It can strengthen domestic productive capacity, support employment, improve service integration, and reinforce the resilience of critical sectors. This is particularly relevant where the State’s broader developmental goals depend on institutions that are financially viable and capable of acting in coordinated ways. Seen in this light, SIGA’s policy is not simply about internal commerce; it is about using the State’s asset base intelligently to support national development while improving returns on public investment. Moreover, inter-trading can serve as a discipline-enhancing mechanism within the public sector itself. If specified entities know that they must compete credibly for business from fellow state entities, they are incentivized to improve price competitiveness, service standards, reliability, and innovation. A properly governed inter-trading framework does not reward inefficiency; it challenges entities to become worthy commercial partners within the portfolio. That dynamic can help drive organizational reform and performance improvement, which are core concerns of SIGA’s oversight function. The strongest defence of SIGA’s position, therefore, lies in its character as a prudent and lawful exercise of active ownership. The State is not a passive spectator in relation to its enterprises. It is an owner with legitimate interests in efficiency, profitability, sustainability, and public value. SIGA, as the institution mandated to safeguard those interests, is justified in encouraging relationships that strengthen the collective performance of the entities under its oversight. Such encouragement is especially legitimate where it remains non-arbitrary, respects procurement and governance laws, preserves board and management responsibility, and is directed toward measurable value creation. In conclusion, SIGA’s policy of encouraging inter-trading among certain specified entities is both legitimate and strategically sound. It reflects a rational ownership approach aimed at retaining value within the State’s enterprise portfolio, improving institutional cooperation, promoting efficiency, enhancing financial sustainability, and advancing the broader public interest. Properly implemented, the policy does not offend fairness, undermine competition, or violate compliance obligations. Rather, it operates within the legal and governance framework as an instrument of coordinated value creation. For these reasons, SIGA’s position is not only defensible; it is a responsible and forward-looking expression of its duty to protect, preserve, and optimize the State’s ownership interests. 6th April,2026