Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed his condolence over the death of Akwatia Member of Parliament (MP) Ernest Yaw Kumi.
The MP died on Monday, July 7, following complains of heart pains.
In reaction to his passing, the 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate described the deceased as “a loyal patriot”.
The post read, “I have received with sadness the passing of Hon. Ernest Yaw Kumi, MP, Akwatia Constituency. Ernest was a loyal patriot. My condolences to the immediate family. May his soul rest in peace”.
The death of the first-time MP shocked many as it is reported that he was very active in Parliament just last week.
His closest friend who is the former District Chief Executive for Denkyembour, Seth Birikorang, during an interview yesterday revealed that that he complained of chest pains before his sudden death on Monday, July 7.
Recounting their moments together two days before his passing, Mr Birikorang shared that they had travelled together to an event in Takoradi on Friday, July 4, in honour of an invitation by the Effia MP, Isaac Yaw Boamah Nyarko.
They later returned to Accra on Sunday, July 6, in the evening.
“After we got back to Accra on Sunday, around 6:30 pm, he dropped me off at Mallam Junction, and I took a taxi home,” he recalled.
“He even teased me to be careful and to pray no one takes a photo of me in a taxi and posts it online just six months after we lost power. We laughed, and before parting ways, he reminded me we had a meeting at 2 pm the next day and told me to call him if I didn’t hear from him.”
According to Mr. Birikorang, a few hours before his demise, Mr Kumi asked his wife to excuse him to rest, only for her to be told later on that her husband had passed between 9:00 and 10:00 am.
“How can a good man die in this painful manner? Someone should tell me this is not true,” he cried.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin on the floor of Parliament yesterday,formally informed the house on the passing of their colleague MP who he described as a vibrant and promising young legislator from the Eastern Region.
As a traditional sign of mourning in Parliament, the MPs seat was draped in red cloth.
The House suspended proceedings to honor his memory as many MPs paid their respect to his memory.
Tributes have continued to pour in from political colleagues and constituents, with many commending him for his dedication, humility, and service to the people of Akwatia.
President John Dramani Mahama has announced government’s plan to begin paying debts owed to road contractors within this month.
This, he said, would help revive road construction projects that have been abandoned.
“The Ministry of Finance has made dedicated financial allocations to address a substantial portion of the outstanding debts. We expect this to bring much-needed relief to the contractors and help accelerate the delivery of critical infrastructure,” the President stated.
He made these revelations during a meeting with members of the Council of State at the Presidency on Monday, July 7.
President Mahama emphasized his government’s commitment to infrastructure development under his administration’s 24-hour economy agenda.
On his part, prioritising road construction and the swift resumption of stalled road projects holds the key to promoting economic growth and productivity by ensuring adequate regional connectivity.
The announcement has been met with excitement and optimism by many stakeholders in the construction sector.
The Ghana Institute of Engineers and the Association of Road Contractors have largely welcomed the president’s announcement, but they have called for transparency.
They have called on the government to publish clear timelines and payment schedules to ensure that contractors can plan and mobilize resources effectively.
In March this year, Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Alhassan Suhuyini, acknowledged the significant financial burden facing the government to clear outstanding debts owed to contractors and suppliers.
His remarks follow the presentation of the 2025 budget by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who disclosed that the government’s total commitments to contractors stand at a staggering GH¢67.5 billion.
This amount comprises GH¢49.2 billion in unpaid Interim Payment Certificates and invoices from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as GH¢18.3 billion in outstanding Bank Transfer Advice at the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department.
Speaking to The Independent Ghana on Tuesday, Suhuyini admitted that while the government is committed to addressing some of these debts, it cannot clear the full amount immediately.
“They should have absolute confidence that we will settle some of the debts,” he assured. “However, we obviously cannot clear everything at once. The total financial commitment stands at about GH¢100 billion, with unpaid certificates alone amounting to GH¢21 billion. The decision to uncap the Road Fund is a step in the right direction, but it will only make GH¢2 billion available—far from enough to cover even the unpaid certificates.”
He emphasized the importance of prioritizing road maintenance, a sector that has suffered due to poor upkeep. “The minister has stressed that a significant portion of these funds will be directed toward road maintenance. This is a smart move because our poor maintenance culture has resulted in roads deteriorating within 8 to 10 years instead of lasting longer,” he explained.
Suhuyini noted that, in addition to paying off some existing road maintenance debts, the government is looking at a broader infrastructure push. “With GH¢10 to GH¢13 billion allocated under the ‘Big Push’ initiative, several new road projects will commence while some outstanding debts will also be retired,” he added.
As Ghana’s economy is valued at GH¢1.2 trillion, stakeholders are keen on seeing how the government will balance infrastructure development with financial obligations. if you look at the big push and the amount that is allocated, about GHC10 to GHC13 billion, many of the projects under the big push are road projects so that will enable us, you know, start new projects and also retire some of the old debts,” he said.
A close friend of the late Akwatia Member of Parliament (MP), Ernest Yaw Kumi, has revealed that he complained of chest pains before his sudden death on Monday, July 7.
Hid friend, who is the former District Chief Executive for Denkyembour, Seth Birikorang, made this revelation during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen yesterday.
Recounting their moments together two days before his passing, Mr Birikorang shared that they had travelled together to an event in Takoradi on Friday, July 4, in honour of an invitation by the Effia MP, Isaac Yaw Boamah Nyarko.
They later returned to Accra on Sunday, July 6, in the evening.
“After we got back to Accra on Sunday, around 6:30 pm, he dropped me off at Mallam Junction, and I took a taxi home,” he recalled.
“He even teased me to be careful and to pray no one takes a photo of me in a taxi and posts it online just six months after we lost power. We laughed, and before parting ways, he reminded me we had a meeting at 2 pm the next day and told me to call him if I didn’t hear from him.”
However, Mr. Birikorang said that around 9:00 am on Monday, he received a distressing call from Mr. Kumi’s wife, informing him that the MP had taken ill and was rushed to the Lister Hospital.
“I was told he had been rushed to the hospital around 2:00 am. The doctors tried their best to stabilise him while waiting for a specialist to arrive. When I got there, I met his wife, his mother, and the doctor at the emergency ward—but everyone went silent when they saw me,” he added.
He continued tearfully, “I was confused. Nobody said a word until the doctor asked his wife if he could speak to me. When she agreed, he told me that Yaw was no longer responding to treatment. I suggested trying another drug, but that’s when they broke the news—he was gone.”
According to Mr. Birikorang, a few hours before his demise, Mr Kumi asked his wife to excuse him to rest, only for her to be told later on that her husband had passed between 9:00 and 10:00 am.
“How can a good man die in this painful manner? Someone should tell me this is not true,” he cried.
Mr. Kumi’s sudden death has shocked Parliament and the nation. Many, including political opponents and close friends, have described him as a calm, intelligent, and promising lawmaker.
The Ghana National Fire Service has reported a slight increase in fire cases nationwide in the first half of 2025.
A comparison of data from January to June last year and that of this year’s first six months indicates that Ghana recorded 3,595 fire cases.
That is about 19 more than the 3,576 cases recorded during the same time in 2024, a sharp increase in cases representing a 0.53% rise.
Despite the increase in fire cases, GNFS says they have been able to save
Even though fire cases went up, the Ghana National Fire Service says they were able to save over GHS 203 million worth of properties, an indication that their firefighting efforts is producing results.
The Greater Accra Region recorded the highest number of fire incidents with 628 cases, followed by the Ashanti Region with 581 cases and the Central Region with 408. The North East Region reported the lowest number of incidents — just 10.
Sharp Decline in Prank Calls
GNFS also reported a significant improvement in fight against prank calls.
The service says they have recorded a dramatic 34.77% reduction in prank calls to its outfit. Having recorded about 364,020 prank calls in the first half of 2024 , they reported a 237,470 in 2025.
They have attributed the reduction in prank calls to consistent public education campaigns and increased awareness of the legal consequences of misusing emergency lines.
“These efforts are clearly paying off,” a GNFS spokesperson noted. “Reducing prank calls means our emergency lines are more accessible to people in real need.”
They listed below the top causes of fire Incidents to:
Electrical faults from illegal connections, poor wiring, and overloading of circuits.Improper use of electrical appliances, such as overused extension cords and unattended devices.
Unattended cooking, especially with gas, electric, or coal-based stoves.Careless use of naked flames like candles, mosquito coils, lighters, and matches.
Gas leakages and poor handling of LPG cylinders.Bush and vegetation burning, particularly during the dry season. Vehicle fires due to poor maintenance and road accidents.Unsafe welding and other hot-work practices. Deliberate acts of arson.
GNFS blamed the increase in fire cases to public’s defiance to fire safety protocols the harsh harmattan conditions experienced in the first quarter of 2025 and general non-compliance with fire safety protocols by sections of the public.
The Service has reiterated its call for continued vigilance and adherence to safety measures, especially as the dry season approaches again in the latter part of the year.
Davide Ancelotti, son of former Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, is set to be named as Botafogo’s new head coach, according to sources.
The announcement followed the resignation of Renato Paiva, who left after Botafogo’s early exit from the FIFA Club World Cup.
Renato’s side lost on June 30 following their 1-0 defeat to Brazilian rivals Palmeiras.
Davide, 35, was Botafogo owner John Textor’s top candidate to replace the departed Renato Paiva.
Consequently, Davide has signed an 18 months contract with contract with Botafogo until December 2026.
However, information about the incoming head coach’s salary and other financial arrangements remains undisclosed.
This is a milestone in Ancelotti’s life, as this wouldbe his first job as a head coach having assited his dad since 2012 to 2025 even presently his assistant in Brazil.
He has been with his father since the latter’s days with PSG, where Davide was assistant fitness coach right until 2025 when the two-time Madrid coach moved to Brazil.
Since leaving Madrid at the end of the season, Davide had been linked with Glasgow Rangers and newly promoted Serie A side Pisa.
Meanwhile, Davide’s first game is likely to be on Saturday when Botafogo visits Vasco da Gama.
Botafogo are eighth in the league standings, six points adrift of leaders Flamengo.
Former Barcelona and Croatia player Ivan Rakitić has announced his retirement from football.
Taking to his social media platform, Instagram on Monday, July 7, the midfielder revealed that he is hanging up his boots at the age of 37.
The message read, “Football, you gave me more than I could ever imagine”
“Now it is time to enjoy you from another perspective, to live with you the same passion, with an always grateful heart, from the stands, from the offices, from home, or wherever life takes me”
“You gave me victories, defeats, lessons and friends for life. You gave me a unique path and a thousand stories to tell. You gave me a beautiful family and moments that I will carry forever in my heart”.
The Croatian has played for about seven teams since 2004 until this year when he announced his retirement.
Born in Switzerland to Croatian parents on March 10, 1988, in Möhlin, Rakitić began his career with local team FC Basel before joining German side Schalke 04 in 2007.
After four years, he moved to Sevilla in 2011, where he met his now wife, for the first of two spells with the Spanish side, which bookended six hugely successful years at Barcelona.
He won thirteen trophies during his stint with Barca, including four LaLiga titles, four Copas del Rey and one Champions League.
He had a successful stint with Croatia, making 106 appearances and contributing 35 goals and 42 assists over 310 matches.
He retired from international football in 2019, a year after helping his country reach the World Cup final, where they lost to France.
At Sevilla, meanwhile, he won two UEFA Europa League titles.
“With Sevilla, I discovered a second home and found the love of my life,” he said. “My daughter was born in that city, and I won my first major title. We cried together and celebrated with passion. Sevilla is eternal.
“Barcelona gave me everything. It’s the club of my dreams. I achieved all my goals there, playing with the best players in the world and winning everything as a team.
“With Croatia, we made history. From our first game together in 2007 to the 2018 World Cup Final, where we made millions dream and feel proud of their roots.
Sharing a dressing room with my national teammates has been one of the greatest gifts of my career.”
Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, has tipped Ousmane Dembele to be the front-runner for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.
He believes that if the French prodigy doesn’t win, then “there is a problem with the Ballon”.
“Ousmane’s season is magnificent. There is no doubt that he won’t win the Ballon d’Or. If he doesn’t win it, there is a problem with the Ballon d’Or. He has done everything,” he told DAZN.
But the forward is expected to face competition for the award from the likes of Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah.
His comments come after the Frenchman’s significant contribution to the club winning a historic continental treble (Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UCL) last season.
The 28-year-old scored 33 goals and registered 15 assists in all competitions.
This, PSG’s president, said there is “no doubt” the Frenchman will be crowned the winner at the ceremony in Paris in September this year.
His performance earned him praise from UEFA Technical Observer Group who asserted that
“He created doubts for opponents match after match with his clever movement… and took on the role of a leader in the PSG team.”
His two splendid assists in the 5-0 thrashing of Internazionale in the final in May and contributed vital goals against Liverpool and Arsenal en route to the showpiece match in Munich.
As PSG brace and hope for more trophies, Dembele is aware that his performances in the United States could yet support his case for the award.
The Frenchman told DAZN: “I’m thinking about [the Ballon d’Or]. I know that, with the season that I have had, I am not far [from the Ballon d’Or], but I am focused on the objectives, before thinking about myself.”
Another trophy for the Parisians may also boost the chances of Dembele’s team-mate Vitinha, who is also among the favourites for the award.
Meanwhile, while Dembele, according to statistics, has the greatest chance of winning the Ballon d’Or, Barcelona’s 17-year-old star Lamine Yamal also is a stron contender as well as Egypt and Liverpool legend Salah.
Yamal notched 8 goals and provided 25 assists in all competitions for the Catalan side as they won the domestic treble.
They also reached the last four of the Champions League.
Barcelona legend Hristo Stoichkov backed Yamal for the award but claimed the youngster still has room for improvement.
“If he wins it, I’ll give it to him personally,” Stoichkov said on Carrusel Deportivo. “Lamine Yamal is a very young boy who has a long way to go. I really enjoy watching him because he has so many interesting qualities.”
Brazilian football star Neymar and his partner, Bruna Biancardi, have welcomed their second child (daughter) together barely two years after they welcomed their first, Mavie, on October 7, 2023.
The baby, Mel, arrived in the early hours of July 5, 2025.
The couple announced their new family member on their social media handles.
Bianca in an Instagram post, which featured beautiful photos of herself and her husband with their newborn wrote,
“Our Mel has arrived to complete and sweeten our lives even more! Welcome, daughter! May God bless your life and free you from all evil! We are looking forward to living this new chapter with you. We love you!”
Mel becomes the second daughter and child of Bianca and the fourth of the 33-year-old footballer.
Neymar first became a father in 2011 with the birth of his son, Davi Lucca, with ex-girlfriend Carolina Dantas. He was just 19 years old.
He also has a daughter, Mavie, with Amanda Kimberly, and previously welcomed another daughter, also named Mavie, with Biancardi — adding an interesting note to his growing family tree.
Their relationship hasn’t been without challenges, with reports of the duo’s separation in 2024. And in 2024, Neymar welcomed another daughter named Helena on July 3, with Amanda Kimberlly.
In 2023, while Bianca was pregnant, there were claims that Neymar cheated, and in a post on social media, the Santos player admitted the claims with an apology to his now wife, Bianca.
The message read” …Only I solve my mistakes in personal life at home, in my intimacy with my family and friends… All of this hit one of the most special people in my life.
The woman I dreamed of following beside me, mother of my child. It touched her intimacy in such a special moment, that is, maternity. Bru, I already apologised for my mistakes, for unnecessary exposure, but I feel obligated to come publicly reaffirm that. If a private matter has become public, the apology has to be public.
Can’t imagine without you. I don’t know if we’ll work out, but TODAY you’re sure I want to try. Our purpose will prevail, our love for our baby will win, and our love for each other will make us stronger. ALWAYS US. I love you ❤️.”
As Neymar continues to recover from injury and aims for a return to the pitch, this personal milestone marks a new and meaningful chapter in his life off the field.
Ghanaian forward Mohammed Kudus has been one of the most talked-about players in this transfer window.
The 24-year-old is currently being sought after by both Europe and Saudi clubs however, it is reported that Kudus wants to play for an European club.
Among the prominent English clubs, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur appear to be the front-runners in the race for the forward
According to reports from SkySportsNews, Kudus is interested in the Spurs over the Blues.
Despite the rejection, Kudus is said to be unwilling to entertain offers from other suitors, including Chelsea, until a deal with Spurs is either agreed or falls through.
West Ham are holding out for a higher fee, but Kudus is reportedly eager to make the move in order to play European football.
Agreeing on Mohammed Kudus’s salary and contract with Tottenham (Spurs) is not expected to be a problem if both clubs agree on the transfer.
The Ghana international winger was expected to stay with West Ham until 2028, with an option to extend the deal by an additional year.
Meanwhile, Chelsea and Arsenal are also keeping tabs on Kudus’ situation, despite his current preference for a move to North London rivals Spurs.
Despite concerns about his inconsistencies in the last campaign, Kudus impressed in his debut Premier League season, scoring 14 goals and providing six assists across all competitions.
During the 2024/25 season, Mohammed Kudus participated in three major competitions for West Ham United: the English Premier League, the FA Cup, and the EFL Cup (Carabao Cup).
In the Premier League, he made 32 appearances, scoring 5 goals and providing 3 assists. He featured once in the FA Cup but didn’t register a goal or assist. In the EFL Cup, he played twice and provided 1 assist without scoring.
Overall, across all competitions, Kudus made 35 appearances, scored 5 goals, and contributed 4 assists.
The funeral of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, is scheduled for July 5, Saturday at 10 a.m. local time in the Portuguese town of Gondomar.
The brothers died in a car accident near Zamora, Spain, on Thursday in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, at approximately 12:35 a.m. local time.
According to reports from ESPN the funeral will be held at the Matriz de Gondomar church, located 33 kilometres from Porto.
There will be a wake from 4 p.m. local time on Friday.
The Sao Cosme Chapel in Gondomar hosted the wake on Friday. PA/PA Images via Getty Images
The bodies of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva were sent to Gondomar, Portugal, on the night of Friday, July 4, just after 11:00 p.m. local time.
A convoy of hearses transported them from Puebla de Sanabria, Spain, near the site of the tragic crash, and they were met with quiet applause and mourning crowds outside the local chapel.
According to ESPN as reported by Spain’s Guardia Civil (Civil Guard).An investigation team has reported that the two’s accident occured when they overtook a car, their tire blew which led to their veering of the road and crashing into a barrier, and then immediately burst into flames.
The Spanish government official, Ángel Blanco, revealed that the car was completely burned and that the two players were inside the vehicle.
According to Miguel Gonçalves, a Portuguese physiotherapist who had recently treated Jota, the Liverpool forward had been advised to travel by car instead of flying after undergoing minor surgery on his right lung at the end of the season. Jota won the UEFA Nations League with Portugal last month.
Due to the severity of the fire, authorities had to use DNA testing and documents found in the wreckage to confirm their identities.
The brothers were reportedly en route to Santander to catch a ferry to the UK, as Jota had been advised not to fly following recent lung surgery.
Diogo recently got married two weeks ago to his long-term girlfriend, Rute Cardoso. He is survived by three children. Diogo Jota’s brother was a 25-year-old Penafiel player in the Portuguese 2nd League.
Tributes are pouring in to mourn the talented players.
Portuguese team player Ronaldo, who was shocked by the news, expressed his condolences to the bereaved family.
Liverpool noted that the club is devastated by the news and refused to make further comment at this time.
The club, however, requested the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates, and club staff be respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.
The Portuguese football federation has paid tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva.
“The Portuguese Football Federation and all of Portuguese football are utterly devastated by the deaths of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva this morning in Spain.
Founder of Heaven Way Champion Ministries, and formerly a fetish priestess, Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, aka Agradaa (aka Evangelist Mama Pat) have been slapped with a 15-years jail sentence linked to her defrauding of church members.
Following her sentence, many wondered whether her church would still run or be shutdown after it’s leaders jail sentence.
In response to this, her husband who also doubles as a fellow pastor of the church, has revealed that, the church would continue “as he remains a pastor and Rev. Mama Pat also remains a pastor as well, the work of God would still go on”.
He said that the verdict is “no new news because many whpo worked for God, many who have taken leadership positions at a point in history suffered imprisonment”.
He continued by drawing comparisons with biblical characters such as Paul and Silas who were imprisoned for doing the work of God and were imprisoned.
He said “it’s normal,considering how things work in the spiritual realm. However quite disturbing as it ought to be in the physical realm.
He claims that “God has ways of honouring his servants hence this might only be the beginning of something good” he said.
Meanwhile, Nana Agradaa, is going to spend 15 years in prison for charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretence.
The Circuit Court in Accra delivered its sentence after it confirmed that she is not pregnant.
In 2022, she was accused of luring her victims through claims that she possessed spiritual powers to double their money.
Initially admitting guilt to charges including fraudulent advertising and obtaining money under false pretenses, she spent two weeks in remand before being granted bail of GH₵150,000 with three sureties, one requiring justification.
She tricked members of the Godsway International Heaven Church into handing over their cash during a night vigil service at her church in Weija, Accra.
However, in a statement made after the verdict, Pastor Asiamah claimed that the sentencing was rooted in complaints from church members following an all-night service held three years ago.
According to him, the allegations of fraud stemmed from the offertory collected during that service.
Nana Agradaa’s legal team has already described her sentence as “excessive,” noting that the amount in question was only GH¢540.
They have vowed to file an appeal on Monday, claiming the punishment is more about who Agradaa is than what she is alleged to have done.
Ghanaian Kumawood actor Don Little has publicly declared his quest for love.
Taking to his social media, he expressed frustration over his struggles in finding a life partner despite having enough money to take care of her and a 10-bedroom house to accommodate a big family.
In the video shared on X (formerly Twitter), he lamented the imbalances of life, noting that whether one is rich or poor, no one is spared from life’s pressures.
He started saying “This world edon, balance oh, if you get money, wahala, if you no get money walaha, see I suffer wey I build this house” he said in pidgin.
“This world isn’t balanced because it’s a problem if you don’t have money, and it’s also a problem if you do. I suffered to build this house, but I’m the only person sleeping in this 10-bedroom house.”
“Inside the house, I sleep in only one bedroom. I need a woman to stay with, but I can’t find one. I’ve been searching for some time now, yet I can’t find anyone. My house feels like a cemetery,” he said.
Kumawood actor, Don Little cries out over the complexities of life, whilst reflecting on having a solitary life despite acquiring a substantial amount of wealth. pic.twitter.com/qmD5AULke2
He went on to invite interested women to contact him directly or leave a comment in the comment section for his attention.
“If you’re interested, leave a comment in the comment section. I need a woman to be with. Because in this world, when you don’t have money, it’s a problem. When you have money too, you don’t know who to spend it with,” he added.
In response to his post, some netizens questioned why he was seeking a life partner to share his wealth with, asking why he wasn’t turning to his family instead. Others wished him well in his search for love.
However, some also criticised his decision to turn to social media, suggesting it would only attract fake affection from women interested in his money rather than genuine love, especially because of his stature.
Don Little is 27 years however, he suffers from a form of dwarfism, which results in his notably short height.
According to IGI Global’s African perspective on dwarfism, individuals with dwarfism often face psychosocial barriers that affect their inclusion in everyday life—including relationships.
These barriers include negative societal attitudes, limited accessibility, and being perceived as childlike, which can discourage romantic interest or lead to patronising behaviour.
However, he often reminds fans that “the fact that our stature is different does not mean you should disrespect and see us as children.”
Don Little’s acting journey began about a decade ago, around 2011, when he was featured in numerous movies—some of which were never released.
One role that catapulted him to fame was his appearance in the popular TV comedy series Cow and Chicken, which starred Ghanaian comedian Funny Face.
This opened him up for several other roles in movies such as “Boys Abr3, Desperate Lovers, and Slay Queens” among others.
Defence attorney and former prosecutor Neama Rahmani has described the sex-trafficking case against Sean “Diddy” Combs as the “most expensive prostitution trial in American history.
He made these comments during an interview with The New York Post, just before the jury delivered its verdict on Wednesday, July 2, in Manhattan federal court.
The court ruled that Diddy was not guilty of charges that accused him of forcing his ex-partners to take part in humiliating sexual acts as well as racketeering.
However, he was still found guilty of less serious prostitution-related charges.
According to him, Rahmani said that since the court didn’t find the person guilty of the more serious crime (racketeering), the whole case seemed like an expensive effort just to punish less serious crimes.
“As I’ve said all along, this case will come down to racketeering,” Rahmani said as jurors were still weighing the case against the disgraced hip-hop mogul.
“If the government doesn’t get a RICO conviction, this will be a huge loss and the most expensive prostitution trial in American history.”
Rahmani had speculated that if the feds ultimately didn’t secure a guilty verdict on the racketeering count, the case would only boil down to two prostitution charges.
Also, before the verdict, he predicted that it would be difficult to prove the sex trafficking charges against Diddy because his defence attorneys took advantage of a barrage of text messages from the rapper’s alleged victims and accusers.
Some whose messages suggested their keenness to participate in “freak-offs” i.e. sex marathons with male prostitutes.
He predicted, too, the outcome of the jury’s verdict.
“What a tremendous loss for the prosecution. And a huge win for the defence,” Rahmani said just moments after the verdict was handed down.
The Bad Boy Records founder was ultimately found guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution and was acquitted on two sex trafficking charges and one racketeering charge.
The mixed result, which came on the third day of deliberations, capped a two-month trial that revealed twisted details about the mogul, including his insatiable taste for the “freak-offs.”
The acquittals on the sex trafficking counts mean he will avoid a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence.
Combs now faces a maximum 10-year prison sentence on each of the two prostitution counts.
The judge will determine Combs’ sentence at a later date and will decide later Wednesday whether he can walk free until then.
The beginning of Diddy’s legal woes
Diddy’s legal troubles began when his former decade-long girlfriend Cassie Ventura, filed a sued him for rape, physical abuse, and sex trafficking during their relationship.
In the suit, she noted that the rapper coerced her into partaking in drug-induced sexual encounters with male escorts—some of which he filmed—and claimed he once threatened to blow up rapper Kid Cudi’s car after she moved on with him.
The lawsuit was filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which temporarily allowed survivors to sue regardless of when the abuse occurred.
Shockingly, the case was settled just one day later for an undisclosed amount.
But that opened the floodgates of many other lawsuits against the rapper. After several months of investigations, Diddy was arrested on September 16, 2024, at a New York City hotel by federal agents acting on a sealed indictment.
Former Director General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Mr Adu Boahene, along with three co-defendants—including his wife—are slated to make their formal court appearance in 15 days following their alleged involvement in the embezzlement of GH¢49.1 million earmarked for a cybersecurity defence software project.
This was after the High Court in Accra, presided over by Justice John Nyante Nyadu, set July 18 as the date for the trial following a pre-trial hearing yesterday, July 3.
The pre-trial was for the court to address a motion filed by the defendant’s legal team’s request to be granted access to national security accounts dating back to 1992. However, their request was dismissed over inadequate justification by the presiding judge.
In delivering the ruling, Justice Nyadu noted, “The full ruling can be applied for on Monday, July 7,” indicating that further legal proceedings would continue shortly.
Meanwhile, Adu-Boahen’s defense attorney, Atta Akyea, has expressed disappointment over the court’s rejection of their motion for broader financial disclosures. He insists that “Our clients are not common criminals. They deserve a fair trial, and that includes full disclosure of all relevant financial records.”
The court also confirmed that following the conclusion of prosecution disclosures and the Case Management Conference, the prosecution is expected to present its case within two weeks, marking a significant step in the legal proceedings.
Adu-Boahene, along with his co-defendants Angela Adjei Boateng, Mildred Donkor, and Advantage Solutions (a company they own), face a total of 11 charges, including misappropriation of GH¢49 million (approx. $7 million) in state funds, money laundering, stealing, and causing financial loss to the state by diverting funds meant for a cybersecurity defense system into private accounts of their company.
However, the trio have denied all these charges, declaring they are not guilty. They are currently on bail as they await trial.
Background
Adu Boahen was arrested in March this year at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) after allegedly trying to elude authorities using multiple passports.
Attorney-General Dominic Ayine formally charged Mr Adu Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, with corruption offences to the tune of GH₵49 million on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.
According to the writ filed at the High Court on Wednesday, April 30, Mr Adu-Boahene, who was responsible for overseeing critical national security infrastructure, including contracts with foreign companies, signed a deal with an Israeli company, ISC Holdings Limited, to purchase cyber defence software for $7 million.
In total, Adu-Boahene is alleged to have transferred approximately GHS 49 million (around $7 million) from the NSB’s funds into his personal accounts, falsely justifying these transactions as payments for the cyber defence systems, together with his accomplice.
“Further investigations have revealed that no cybersecurity system of the description in the January 30, 2020, contract was ever received by the Bureau of National Communication or by its successor agency, the National Signals Bureau, or by the Government of Ghana,” court documents indicated.
Adu-Boahene’s wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, is one of three directors of Advantage Solutions Limited, the sole shareholder of BNC Communications Bureau Limited. Mildred Donkor is a former bank relationship officer for Adu-Buahene, his wife, and BNC Communications Bureau Limited.
The AG, during a media address in March, detailed that on February 6, 2020, Adu Boahene authorized the transfer of GHC27.1 million from the National BNC’s account at Fidelity Bank to a private BNC account at UMB. The stated purpose of this transaction was to facilitate the acquisition of cyber defense system software from ISC Holdings in Israel for $7 million.
Further scrutiny of the bank records showed that Mr. Adu Boahene instructed the private BNC to transfer GHC9,537,520, equivalent to $1,750,000 at the time, to ISC Holdings. However, the Attorney-General revealed that “Mr. Adu Boahene fraudulently attached a copy of the government of Ghana ISC contract as well as an invoice, which he held as an invoice issued by ISC Holdings.”
In addition to the initial transaction, two further payments amounting to GHC21 million were transferred from the National BNC Director’s account at Fidelity Bank to the same private BNC account at UMB on March 18 and March 30, 2020. These payments were recorded as funding for the cyber defense system.
However, upon closer examination, it was discovered that although a total of GHC49 million had been moved into the private BNC account—an amount equivalent to $7 million at the prevailing exchange rate—only a fraction of the money had been paid to ISC Holdings, raising concerns about the whereabouts of the remaining funds.
Also, according to court documents, it’s alleged that Adu-Boahene, his wife, and Mildred “ran an elaborate criminal enterprise using A4 (Advantage Solutions Limited) as a holding company through which the stolen funds were funneled and laundered for their own benefit.”
The documents added that as the holding company for several subsidiary companies, including the private BNC, A4 received a substantial portion of the stolen funds, which its shareholders and directors then invested in the business activities of the subsidiaries, including investments in treasury bills, real estate, the manufacturing of fertilizers, and the rental of luxury cars to VIP customers.
The increasing rate of profanity, as well as culturally inappropriate and explicit content on TikTok in the country, has necessitated a meeting between the social media platform and Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Sam Nartey George.
In a media address held yesterday, July 3, Sam George addressed the media at the Information Services Department (ISD) Press Centre in Accra on a second-quarter sector update on Ghana’s Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation portfolio.
The minister mentioned that his outfit engaged TikTok’s West African administration on collaborative measures to promote a safer, more inclusive, and responsible digital creative space in Ghana.
“As part of efforts to promote a safe, vibrant, and inclusive digital creative economy, I met with TikTok’s West African government relations team on the 26th of June. Our discussions focused on enforcing age restrictions, safeguarding minors, and promoting responsible content development,” Sam George said.
Live sex acts, nudity trends, which were nicknamed “teleportation challenge,” and other sexually explicit behaviour, such as cases where users go live and engage in explicit or sexually suggestive behaviour in exchange for virtual gifts like Diamonds, cards, or LIVE rewards. These gifts can be converted into real money, which unfortunately incentivises such performances.
Sam George admitted that his ministry has taken notice of these disturbing trends, citing that they are unacceptable and go against Ghanaian cultural values.
“I’m deeply concerned about some of the content on TikTok; live sex and explicit materials on TikTok are completely unacceptable, and it’s against our culture and our norms. These were parts of the conversation I held with TikTok’s team to have content moderation in the country,” he added.
The minister stressed the need for content moderation in Ghana, especially in a digital environment where young people are highly active and often exposed to harmful content. To address this, he pointed out that the Cybersecurity Authority has been tasked to take a more active role.
“The Cybersecurity Authority is mandated to do constant surveillance of TikTok platforms and accounts in the country that are engaged in content that is anti-our culture and not appropriate and work with the platform operator to take down those accounts and block the owners of those accounts from operating on those platforms,” he stated.
Sam George also urged TikTok to compensate or incentivise Ghanaian TikTokers for their support and contribution to the growth of the platform. “We must ensure that Ghanaian creators are not just content generators but also beneficiaries of the digital economy they help build,” he said.
He proposed the creation of a monetisation framework tailored to Ghana’s digital economy. Training boot camps for bloggers and creators to help them maximise earnings. Partnerships with local fintech platforms to streamline payouts and reduce barriers to entry.
Although currently Ghana does not rank among TikTok’s top 10 global markets, Ghanaian TikTok users have grown significantly, with an estimated 7.4 million active TikTok users, according to DataReportal as of early 2025. This figure represents approximately 21.3% of Ghana’s total population of 34.7 million at the time.
The Tertiary Education Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU-GH) has embarked on an indefinite strike, effective yesterday, Thursday, July 3, following the expiry of a seven-day ultimatum issued to “relevant authorities” on June 24.
The group’s strike is in protest of what they describe as the “egregious and unjustifiable” recognition of a smaller union, TEWU-TUC, to officially represent workers on the Governing Councils of public universities, a decision that disregards TEWU-GH’s majority membership and legitimate claim to representation.
In a statement dated July 3rd and signed by the National Chairman, Suleman Abdul-Rahman, TEWU-GH, the disgruntled union, expressed its discontent and dissatisfaction with the authorities’ failure to provide any satisfactory explanation or resolution after multiple concerns were expressed over TEWU-TUC’s representation.
The union cited that concerned authorities “blatantly disregarding democratic principles and the rights of the majority union” have forced them to take “drastic and immediate action” to uphold fairness, transparency, and democracy in tertiary education governance.
TEWU-GH demands the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of TEWU-TUC’s appointment as workers’ representative on university governing councils.”
The union also wants the Ministers for Labour and Education to instruct the Chief Labour Officer to conduct a verification exercise—in line with Labour Regulations 2007 (L.I. 1833)—to determine which union holds the majority membership among non-teaching staff in public universities.
It is further calling for the establishment of a clear, credible, and democratic process for determining union representation on university governing councils. They argue this is essential to ensure that the voice of the majority is respected and reflected in governance structures.
TEWU-GH also called for the establishment of “a transparent, democratic, and verifiable process” to determine union representation across tertiary institutions, ensuring that governance structures reflect the voice of the majority.
Reaffirming its resolve, the union stated, “We remain committed to peaceful engagement with authorities but will not compromise on our demands or retreat in the face of adversity.”
TEWU-GH appealed to fellow labour unions, stakeholders, and all well-meaning Ghanaians to stand in solidarity, emphasising that “only through collective support can the rights and interests of tertiary education workers be protected, safeguarding industrial harmony across the Traditional Public Universities.”
Ghana winger Kamaldeen Sulemana has joined Italian Serie A side Atalanta in a four-year deal.
The Serie A side announced his signing in a statement on their website and social media platforms.
The statement read, “Atalanta BC is pleased to announce that it has acquired the sporting rights of Ghanaian footballer Kamaldeen Sulemana.” “The Percassi family, the Pagliuca family and the entire Nerazzurri Club extend a warm welcome to Kamaldeen, wishing him all the best in the Nerazzurri shirt – personally and with the team.”
Kamaldee, in response to this, pledged to give his best to the club.
“I just had a tour at the training centre and I can say it’s a big facility, a lot of stuff to do here, and I can’t wait to get started.”
“I’m very happy to start my new adventure here. So far, I like everything I see. I will give all my best to the club,” he said.
He also went on to express his gratitude to the club and fans for their warm reception.
“I am very happy to be here, and I’m proud. Thank you to Atalanta fans and the club for welcoming me. It’s a real privilege. Forza Atalanta.”
The 23-year-old joined Atalanta following his contract termination with English Championship side Southampton on Wednesday, July 2, after his over 2-year stint with the club.
He signed a four-and-a-half-year contract, which was set to run until June 30, 2027 however, the Atalanta move truncated it.
Kamaldeen made 74 appearances across all competitions, scoring 4 goals and providing 7 assists.
The Ghana international endured a challenging stint in England, with recurring injuries affecting his form. He managed two goals and three assists in 30 appearances across all competitions during the 2024/25 season, as Southampton suffered relegation.
Now reunited with coach Ivan Juric, whom he previously worked with at Stade Rennais, Sulemana will be aiming to rediscover his best form and make a strong impression in Serie A.
University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), has responded to a trending video involving the schools treatment of students who flout dress policy.
A viral video, which has sparked widespread debate online, shows students of the university being turned away from lecture halls.
Others were also seen being dragged away by the school’s task force for what the institution describes as inappropriate dressing, in violation of its dress code.
In a statement signed by the Head of the Marketing Department at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Dr. Ibn Kailan Abdul-Hamid, he expressed dissappointment over the leak of the video, condemning it as illegal capturing and sharing without authorisation.
“The video was recorded and shared without proper authorisation”, the statement read.
He said the school clarified that it is simply enforcing its code of conduct.
It added that while students are free to dress as they prefer, their appearance is expected to align with professional standards.
“We do not seek to suppress individuality, but rather to harmonise personal expression with professional standards”, admonishing the public against drawing conclusions based on a single perspective.
He continued that UPSA is committed to professionalism, discipline, and integrity as these are values that are deeply embedded in its institutional culture.
As a professional institution, aside from educating its students, it instils into them professional ethics and standards which prepare students for the professional ecosystem in Ghana and beyond.
“The University’s professional dress code is not arbitrary. It is rooted in a philosophy that prepares students for the real-world expectations of corporate Ghana and beyond,” the statement noted.
The university explained that the policy has been part of the student experience for decades and is widely embraced by alumni who now occupy leadership positions in various sectors.
“The policy has been an integral part of the student experience for decades, embraced by alumni who now occupy key leadership roles across various sectors.”
While acknowledging public concerns, Dr. Abdul-Hamid stressed that UPSA takes seriously matters relating to dignity, professionalism, and communication.
Dr. Abdul-Hamid urged stakeholders—including alumni, parents, employers, and the public—to continue supporting the values that have guided UPSA’s growth over the years.
“UPSA is not just an academic institution; it is a professional brand,” he said. “And like any strong brand, it evolves with time but never loses sight of its core identity.”
Businesses and households in Greater Accra, Tema, and their surrounding areas have been cautioned to brace themselves for a blackout lasting approximately 9 to 12 hours, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced.
In three separate public notices issued on Wednesday, July 2, the power supply company alerted consumers of an impending power interruption during the day on Thursday, July 3.
The blackout, according to ECG, is due to planned maintenance works to enhance service delivery and ensure a more stable power distribution system.
Communities expected to be affected by the maintenance in Accra are as follows:
The outage in these areas is expected to last from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
And in the Tema Region, ECG says power will be interrupted between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
The affected areas include Kpong, Nuaso, Kpongunor, Agormanya, Odumase, Kojonya, Atua, Sawer, Okornya, Somanya, Jericho, Roman Down, Under Bridge Market, State School for the Deaf, Kanawu, Adjei Kojo, Community 25, Bulasu, Ghana Flag, Afienya Zongo, and surrounding areas.
The notice is expected to prepare consumers to prepare accordingly to minimise the impact of the temporary outage.
ECG has assured the public that power will be restored immediately after the completion of the maintenance works.
It also apologised for the inconvenience the outage is likely to cause.
“ECG regrets the inconvenience that will arise out of this exercise,” parts of the statement read.
President John Dramani Mahama yesterday, July 2, conferred Ghana’s highest national honour, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, on the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, during the latter’s two-day official visit to Ghana.
He bestowed this honour on H.E. Modi at a state banquet held in his honour at the presidency.
The honorary conferment, President Mahama, was in recognition of Modi’s “distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership”.
He also commended the Prime Minister for his visit to Ghana, highlighting both countries historical ties and former leaders of the respective countries contributions to democracy and emancipation.
“This visit is a testament to the deep-rooted historical ties between Ghana and India, founded on the visionary leadership of Ghana’s first President Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and India’s former Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru”, he noted.
According to the government, the honour underscores India’s unwavering support for Ghana’s development and Prime Minister Modi’s contribution to boosting economic cooperation between the two countries.
The gesture also served as a symbolic tribute to the 1.4 billion people of India.
In reaction to the honour done him, H.E. Modi thanked the Ghanaian people and expressed commitment to fostering the bilateral relation between both countries.
“I thank the people and Government of Ghana for conferring ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’ upon me. This honour is dedicated to the bright future of our youth, their aspirations, our rich cultural diversity and the historical ties between India and Ghana.”
“This honour is also a responsibility; to keep working towards stronger India-Ghana friendship. India will always stand with the people of Ghana and continue to contribute as a trusted friend and development partner,” he wrote in a post on X.
I thank the people and Government of Ghana for conferring ‘The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana’ upon me. This honour is dedicated to the bright future of our youth, their aspirations, our rich cultural diversity and the historical ties between India and Ghana.
President Mahama received the Indian leader at the airport with full state honours, including a guard of honour and cultural performances, ahead of bilateral talks at the Jubilee House.
His visit to Ghana marks a significant milestone for both countries, as this marks his first-ever visit to the country, since his 11 years of being Prime Minister and notably, the first visit by any Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over 3 decades.
India has been a key development partner to Ghana, providing credit facilities and grants that have supported landmark projects such as the Jubilee House, Komenda Sugar Factory, Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line, and the Yendi Water Supply Project.
During the visit, both countries signed several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at deepening cooperation in key sectors including health, education, trade, agriculture, and security.
He called for enhanced investment collaboration and broad-based support for Ghana’s economic reset agenda.
Former West Ham United chief scout Mick Brown has announced the likelihood of Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus leaving the club during the summer transfer window.
The mini window ended on June 10, and the main window began on June 16.
Speaking to Football Insider today, June 2, Brown suggested that despite Kudus’ talent, he is on West Ham’s list of potential ‘out’ footballers.
“It looks like Kudus will be leaving West Ham,” he said. “There’s been plenty of interest in him, but clubs won’t pay £80 million. They’ll negotiate a lower fee, which West Ham might accept since it’s still a significant amount,” he revealed.
While acknowledging Kudus’ talent, he expressed concerns over the Ghanaian attacking midfielder’s inconsistency in form and delivery.
“Honestly, I have concerns about his consistency—he didn’t have the best season. But these clubs believe they can unlock his potential.”
During the 2024/25 season, Mohammed Kudus participated in three major competitions for West Ham United: the English Premier League, the FA Cup, and the EFL Cup (Carabao Cup).
In the Premier League, he made 32 appearances, scoring 5 goals and providing 3 assists. He featured once in the FA Cup but didn’t register a goal or assist. In the EFL Cup, he played twice and provided 1 assist without scoring.
Overall, across all competitions, Kudus made 35 appearances, scored 5 goals, and contributed 4 assists.
Despite these contributions, his form was considered inconsistent compared to his previous season, leading to growing speculation about a potential transfer.
Meanwhile, several European clubs expressed interest in the West Ham star, including Chelsea under the leadership of Maresca, who seeks to boost his squad for more goals in the next campaign.
He confirmed that “Chelsea are among the latest to pursue him, and Tottenham are also in talks. Chelsea seems willing to spend heavily. With João Pedro signed and Jamie Gittens targeted, they’re not stopping there”.
He continued that many at Stamford Bridge love Kudus and expect a good delivery if he is well coached and managed.
“Kudus has fans at Stamford Bridge who want more attacking options. So, despite my reservations, clubs are eager to sign him, recognising his obvious talent if used well.”
Kudus impressed in his debut Premier League season, scoring 14 goals and providing six assists across all competitions.
Kudus joined West Ham in August 2023 on a five-year deal with an option for a further year.
Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo has extended his contract at English club AFC Bournemouth by five years.
The centre forward, whose contract was expected to expire by June’s end, has extended his stay until 2030.
In a formal statement issued on the club’s website and their social media handles on July 1, it announced that “AFC Bournemouth is delighted to announce that Antoine Semenyo has signed a new long-term contract with the club, which will run until the summer of 2030.”
The club’s President of Football Operations, Tiago Pinto, praised Semenyo’s impact and commitment, calling him a “key member of the project” at Vitality Stadium.
“Antoine has been crucial to the club’s progress and is a key member of the project here at Vitality Stadium.”
“We have a great relationship with Antoine and we’re looking forward to continuing that as we hope to build on a record-breaking season.”
“His commitment to the club matches our ambition, and I’m excited to see what can be achieved as we prepare for the new campaign,” he said.
Semenyo in reaction to the extension, said, “I’ve grown so much at the club, both on and off the pitch, and I’m really happy to have signed ahead of returning for pre-season.”
“From the fans to the staff and my teammates, I can’t speak highly enough of the people around the club. It’s a great place to be and I’m excited to get back to Bournemouth and continue the hard work with the new season just around the corner.”
His extension with his current club brings an end to interest from top clubs, including Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, and Liverpool in the current transfer window.
Last season, Semenyo scored 11 Premier League goals and added five assists as the Vitality Park outfit made history by amassing their best points haul in the top flight.
Semenyo has made 89 appearances for the Cherries in all competitions, scoring 22 goals and delivering ten assists to his name.
Ghanaian music star Kuami Eugene has expressed his admiration for fellow singer and songwriter Amaarae, labelling her a legend.
Speaking during an appearance on Joy Prime’s “The Doreen Avio Show,” which aired on July 1, he acknowledged Amaarae’s talent, saying she has been in the music space for years.
However, it is only recently that her name has been on the lips of many.
According to Kuami, Amaarae has extraordinary talent and has been consistent over the years; however, her style of music suits a specific audience, generally ones from the global community.
“She’s a legend, though. People she used to appeal to is not the regular Ghanaian masses. She’s been making waves since. It’s just quite sad that people are now getting to know Amaarae. But I’m excited they’re getting to know Amare now because the talent she has is insane,” Kuami Eugene added.
His comments come on the back of Amaarae’s popularity in Ghana recently following her Coachella 2025 performance, where she performed songs by Ghanaian artists like Joey B, La Même Gang, Eazzy, and the Asakaa Boys, giving these songs more global projection.
Kuami Eugene referred to Amaarae as his “big sister,” reiterating his admiration for her craft.
“The funny thing is, it has never been quiet with Amare. It’s just her circle… That’s where she finds herself,” he said.
Before the visibility she gained following the Coachella 2025 performance, Amaarae had already released about seven songs, including her hit single Sad Girlz Luv Money, which charted globally and featured artists like Kali Uchis and Moliy.
She has since performed on major global stages and continues to be a leading figure in the alternative African pop scene.
Approximately 12 hours after MTN announced a service downtime that affected customers’ ability to purchase the renewed data packages, a formal statement revealed that the disruption had been resolved.
The telco, in an official statement yesterday, revealed that it has restored its service, assuring customers that they can now purchase their data with the additional 15% volume.
In the statement, which read, “MTN is pleased to inform our cherished customers that we have restored our data bundle purchase channels.”
As of 11 pm yesterday, MTN said that customers could access their channels to purchase their desired data.
“As of 11 pm today, 1st July 2025, customers can purchase data bundles to receive the 15% additional volume of data via the following channels:*138#, *170#, *567#” parts of the statement shared.
However, “customers are to note that data purchases via the MoMo app remain temporarily unavailable.”
This is good news for users, with MTN dominating the market as the Significant Market Power (SMP) operator, 29.2 million mobile subscribers (up 5.2% YoY) and 17.8 million active data users.
Yesterday, there was a barrage of bitter complaints from MTN users on X over the inaccessibility of the telco’s data package purchasing channels.
Around 7 am, a user on X (formerly Twitter) complained that she was receiving feedback such as ‘the service is being upgraded; try again after 7 AM.’
Are you able to purchase data via *138# or the mobile App? In the morning they said I should try at 12 but it’s past 3 and still unable to buy data 🤦♀️ MTN and Sam George ankasa hmmm
— CHARLOTTE NICOLE 🕊 (@charllycolegh) July 1, 2025
Other users also expressed doubt about the genuineness of MTN’s claims of experiencing technical issues.
They believe it was a deliberate attempt by the telcos to miss the Communications Minister, Sam George’s, timeline of effecting the 15% increase in data volume.
Some drew comparisons between other telcos, such as Telecel and AT, which are supposedly ‘smaller’ in terms of dominance, to have been able to prepare for the changes.
The government is set to launch a new task force to clamp down on illicit gold-smuggling activities in the country.
Speaking at a press conference earlier this week, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, revealed that as part of broader measures to combat smuggling and illegal trading of gold in the country, President Mahama would launch a special task force on July 8, 2025.
He thus cautioned traders to secure the appropriate licence to engage in any form of gold trading in the country, saying, “But for those who are hell bent on trading illegally without the licenses, we are serving notice that we are coming after you”.
“This event would be the inauguration of the GoldBod task force. So, 8th of July at 8:30 a.m. at the National Security Secretariat, popularly called Blue Gate — there is a yard in there… and the media are cordially invited,” he revealed.
The task force would be given a special mandate with specific powers as police officers to wage war against smuggling and all forms of illegal gold trading activities in the country.
This, Mr Gyamfi asserts, would save the government from any leakages in revenue mobilisation in the sector, helping to generate and invest revenue for economic development.
“(This will) help the state combat and defeat the phenomenon of gold smuggling, the canker of illegal gold trading, and price disruptions that deprive the state of the needed revenue, profit, and the needed forex for our economy and the development of our country” he announced.
Earlier, the GoldBod CEO on June 5 also warned that persons who trade without licenses would be prosecuted, adding that his outfit takes no bribes before the said licenses are issued.
During a meeting with the Chamber of Licensed Gold Buyers, Mr Gyamfi stated that “I don’t take or demand bribes before I issue a licence.”
The acting CEO noted that the process for registering has been made seamless and is devoid of corruption. “We have removed the human interface element, and so there is no corruption, bribery, inducements, or favouritism. It is a very transparent and competitive process, and once you qualify, you get the license,” he added.
Lauding his outfit’s results-oriented reforms and initiatives since his takeover as CEO, Sammy Gyamfi, during a media engagement, revealed that GoldBod has exceeded the $5 billion mark in gold export value for the first half of 2025, surpassing the $4.6 billion recorded for the entire year of 2024.
He expressed optimism that GoldBod’s hitting the 60-tonne export mark by the end of July 2025, driven by stronger compliance, improved oversight, and the streamlined licensing regime under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).
“In the whole of 2024, gold exports stood at 66 tons with an export value of $4.6 billion. We have done only six months, and yet we have crossed the $4.6 billion. We have gone beyond $5 billion, and in terms of volumes, we have done 50 tons and over, and we are optimistic that by the end of next month, we will have hit 60 tons,” he said.
The Mahama-led government has fulfilled one of its campaign promises by releasing GH¢139 million for the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme.
LEAP is a social protection initiative launched by the government of Ghana in 2008 to support extremely poor and vulnerable households by providing them with bi-monthly cash transfers.
Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, discussed the payments and disbursement during a press briefing in Accra on Monday, June 30.
She revealed that LEAP grants have been increased by 25% explaining that the government had implemented what she described as the “indexation of the LEAP cash grant against inflation.”
She believes that this adjustment was necessary to preserve the real value of the grants in the face of rising living costs and economic shocks.
She said, “The cash grant for one eligible-member household has increased from two hundred and fifty-six Ghana cedis (GH₵256.00) to three hundred and twenty Ghana cedis (GH₵320.00). For households with two eligible members, the grant has increased from GH₵304.00 to GH₵380.00.
Three-member households will now receive GH₵440.00, up from GH₵352.00, while households with four or more eligible members will receive GH₵530.00, increased from GH₵424.00.”
The government was initially disbursing approximately GH¢111.2 million before the 25% increase. That means the additional amount added is about GH¢27.8 million.
The recent disbursement marks the 96th payment covering March to April this year and the second time this year that the government has disbursed funds under the LEAP to beneficiaries.
The payments, which started yesterday, will benefit 350,000 households across 260 metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies (MMDAs).
However, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection revealed that efforts are currently underway to increase the number of beneficiary households from 350,000 to 400,000, following an ongoing reassessment exercise aimed at identifying more households in need.
“The ongoing reassessment exercise will help us reach the target of 400,000 beneficiary households in upcoming disbursement cycles,” she said.
On the back of this, she admonished the respective beneficiary households to make efforts to engage in some income-generating activities to help them save while prioritising nutrition and education of children.
“May I remind LEAP beneficiary households to prioritise household nutrition, children’s education, and investment in income-generating activities. They should equally begin to adopt a savings culture based on clear household consumption needs and goals,” she added.
She emphasised that these efforts would contribute significantly to reducing poverty and achieving the programme’s broader social protection goals and related Sustainable Development Goals.
About LEAP and its impacts
LEAP was implemented with households that include orphans and vulnerable children, elderly persons aged 65 and above who lack support, persons with severe disabilities who are unable to work, as well as pregnant women and lactating mothers living in extreme poverty.
For the past years, the programme has had a significant impact on beneficiaries nationwide. In the early stages following its launch in March 2008, it began with just 1,654 beneficiary households across 21 pilot districts in Ghana, but as of the middle of 2025, LEAP has enrolled around 350,000 households from all 260 districts in Ghana.
According to reports, LEAP has gone a long way in improving school enrollment rates, access to healthcare through the National Health Insurance Scheme, and better food security within beneficiary communities.
It has also been associated with a reduction in child labour, decreased household hunger, and even fewer marital disputes, while also encouraging families to engage in small-scale economic ventures.
Ghanaian singer and songwriter Cina Soul (Christie Quincyna Quarcoopome) has called on the Ghana Police and Communications Ministry to take action against Kumawood actor Big Akwes after he threatened to kill her on live TV.
Her call comes after the actor, Big Akwes, during an appearance on Bryt TV, while playing a Kiss-Marry-Kill (KMK) game, made those threats.
KMK is a lighthearted, sometimes provocative party game where players are given the names of three people, usually celebrities, fictional characters, or mutual acquaintances, and must decide which one they would kiss, marry, or kill.
When asked to choose between colleague actress Vivian Jill and Cina Soul, he stated that he would marry Vivian Jill.
Akwes graphically stated that he would “kill Cina Soul,” with a vivid description of how he would spiritually summon her via a magic mirror, stab her repeatedly with a knife, and drink her blood.
Cina, in response to this, took to her social media to call on Ghana Police and the Ministry of Communications, expressing her genuine fears and sense of “unsettlement” over the threats and urging the need for swift action.
“I’m deeply unsettled by this. I initially chose not to respond to earlier comments because I do not wish to be associated with this individual, but at this point, I feel genuinely threatened.”
This is not the first time the actor has attacked Cina Soul. His first public attack against Cina Soul occurred in April 2025, during a segment aired on Max TV.
While watching her album promotion dance, Big Akwes body-shamed her, mocked her outfit, calling it “attention-seeking,” and slammed her not dressing “better.”
According to Cina, she didn’t want to respond to the scathing attacks from Big Akwes because she didn’t want to be associated with “such an individual”; however, the recent threats have necessitated a response.
“I may not know the proper channels to report this, but it’s critical we take a firm stance against this kind of dangerous rhetoric being broadcast on our TV and radio platforms. We must not normalise hate,” she posted.
Her cry for help has been met with an outpouring of support, while both Big Akwes and Bryt TV have been widely condemned for airing the clip.
.@GhPoliceService i’m deeply unsettled by this. i initially chose not to respond to earlier comments because i do not wish to be associated with this individual but at this point i feel genuinely threatened.@samgeorgegh@mocghana i may not know the proper channels to report… pic.twitter.com/W3c49OUFls
Users of MTN, a leading telecom giant in Ghana, had their excitement short-lived when they began to make purchases of the newly increased data packages.
This was after customers made attempts to purchase data at around 7 am, according to a user on X (formerly Twitter) who was receiving feedback such as ‘the service is being upgraded, try again after 7 AM.’
Are you able to purchase data via *138# or the mobile App? In the morning they said I should try at 12 but it’s past 3 and still unable to buy data 🤦♀️ MTN and Sam George ankasa hmmm
— CHARLOTTE NICOLE 🕊 (@charllycolegh) July 1, 2025
Others also claimed they were being given noon as another time to retry purchasing.
In response to this, MTN issued a statement dated July 1, apologising for the inconvenience and assuring customers that services would be restored swiftly.
“We recognise the importance of staying connected and sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this may cause”, the MTN Corporate Communications Department explained.
They explained that they were experiencing what they described as a “major technical issue” while they were working to implement the 15% increment in data.
“Whilst implementing the data offer, which will provide 15% additional volume of data from today, 1st July, 2025, MTN experienced a major technical issue that has affected data bundle purchases, including the data volume offer.
As a result, customers are temporarily unable to purchase data bundles,” parts of the statement read.
They concluded with an appreciation of customers’ patience, promising occasional updates on the state of the service.
This comes on the back of Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations Sam Nartey George announcing on June 10 in a press conference that, effective July 1, telecommunication companies will review the amount of data provided for their bundle packages.
Airtel Tigo (AT) and Telecel, he noted, were expected to increase their data offers by over 10%, whereas MTN will review their data offers by 15%, Mr Sam George revealed while engaging the press today, Tuesday, June 10.
AT’s GHC400 data package, providing 195 GB, will now offer 236 GB. Telecel’s GHC400 data package will now be worth 250 GB and not 190 GB, effective next month.
According to the minister, MTN will reintroduce its GHC399 data package, offering 214GB, and will stop providing 92.88GB for GHC350.
In a turn of events, AT and Telecel implemented a 15% increase in their data bundles. However, MTN stated that they were unable to do the same, citing challenges in implementing the increase.
Former Ballon d’Or winner and ex-Liberian president George Weah surprised many following his appearance in a friendly training match at La Bawaleshie Park in Accra on Monday, June 30.
The football session Mr. Weah attended was not part of any official tournament or competitive fixture.
It was one of the popular “Monday Stars” sessions, where retired and current Ghanaian footballers gather weekly to stay active and reconnect through the game.
His presence at the usual fitness exercise drew a throng of excited onlookers ready to be dazzled by the only African player who has won a Ballon d’Or.
Weah, who starred for top European clubs like AC Milan, PSG, and Chelsea, among five other clubs, during his playing days, showed a brilliant and electrifying display during his days as a professional footballer.
As usual, he didn’t disappoint, thrilling his fans as he dribbled past opponents and linked up with other players on the dusty field.
Former Liberian President George Oppong Weah’s curling shot almost had the desired effect, but unfortunately, it went off target.
The game has since gone viral on social media, with many praising the Liberian icon for staying close to the grassroots game and inspiring young footballers in Ghana and beyond.
George Weah served as Liberia’s president from 2018 until 2024 but has always stayed connected to the sport that made him a global star.
The former Liberian president won the Ballon d’Or in 1995, making him the first and only African to win the award. Also, in 1989, 1994, Mr. Weah won the African Footballer of the Year.
His 75 caps and 18 goals led the Liberia National Team to qualify twice for AFCON.
The monetary gain associated with the participation of the four African countries in the FIFA Club World Cup appears to be a significant compensation, despite an early group-stage elimination of these clubs.
FIFA’s Club World Cup announced its first-ever 32-team edition in 2025 to include four African countries, including Al Ahly (Egypt), Wydad Casablanca (Morocco), and Esperance (Tunisia), alongside Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa).
These four African clubs clashed with elite European clubs like Chelsea, Man City, Dortmund and Juventus, from June 16-24, but none managed to finish in the top two of their respective groups to advance to the knockout stage.
However, each group earned decent returns, starting with a base participation fee of $9.55 million for each club.
And for clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns, who won and secured a draw against Fluminense on June 25 at the Hard Rock Stadium, Miami secured an additional 3 million dollars for their draw ($1 m) and their 1-0 win against Ulsan HD on June 17 at the Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando.
Al Ahly from Egypt earned a total of $11.6 million from their participation in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Espérance Sportive de Tunis, representing Tunisia, also took home $11.6 million. Wydad Casablanca from Morocco earned $9.6 million after they ran in the tournament.
However, these financial gains weren’t the four powerhouses’ only gains, but also their clash with other English teams marks a significant milestone in African football.
The total prize money for the tournament reached an astounding $1 billion, with $525 million allocated for participation and $475 million for performance-based rewards.
The eventual tournament winner is set to receive a massive $40 million on top of accumulated performance bonuses and their participation fee.
The FIFA Club World Cup’s new financial structure guarantees a substantial base participation fee for all teams, complemented by performance-based incentives.
While participation in the Club World is ‘juicy,’ there have been several complaints from players, coaches, and pundits concerning the impact on player health and performance delivery.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has criticised the Club World Cup as “the worst idea ever implemented in football,” citing concerns over players’ welfare.
“It’s all about the game and not the surrounding events – and that’s why the Club World Cup is the worst idea ever implemented in football in this regard,” he said.
Man City’s coach, Pep Guardiola, also made similar complaints about player exhaustion and intense player schedules, citing potential jeopardy to player performance in the upcoming season.
He said players hardly rest after the end of the Premier League season (May 25) and the start of the Club World Cup (June 18).
The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) Effua Ghartey has re-echoed the association’s calls to the government to reconsider the suspension of the embattled Chief Justice, Getrude Torkornoo.
Her comments come after Justice Torkornoo was suspended on Tuesday, April 22, by President John Dramani Mahama following the establishment of a prima facie case based on separate petitions calling for her removal.
The action was in accordance with Article 146(6) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution and comes after consultations with the Council of State.
Speaking during the 43rd commemoration of Martyrs’ Day, which was held on Monday, June 30, at the Accra Ridge Church in Ghana, President of the GBA, Effua Ghartey, urged a review of the removal of Madam Torkonoo.
She cited the removal process as one that has the potential of setting a bad precedent for the country’s judiciary.
“In the spirit of reconciliation, all the various calls made for a reconsideration of the suspension of the Chief Justice in the circumstances, as it sets a poor precedent, will not go unheeded,” she noted.
Heeding this petition, she said, would help protect the judiciary’s integrity, which would ensure peace and tranquility.
“We yearn for peace and strive for peace,” she said.
Her petition for the review of the suspended Chief Justice is among the many calls by the GBA.
A broader membership of the GBA has also publicly opposed the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, particularly slamming the prima facie determination that led to the suspension and calling for a constitutional instrument to guide future judicial removal processes.
At the GBA’s Mid-Year Conference held on April 27, members passed a resolution calling on President John Mahama to revoke the suspension.
They also expressed their discontent with the tone and content of the GBA’s earlier April 24 statement, insisting that its tone didn’t do justice in defending the Chief Justice and supporting her recall.
Meanwhile, Martyrs’ Day is an event that honours the memory of three High Court judges, Justices Frederick Opoku Sarkodie, Cecilia Koranteng-Addow, and Kwadwo Agyei Agyepong, who were abducted and murdered on June 30, 1982.
Background
On May 21, Justice Torkornoo filed an injunction application, which, among other things, questioned the constitutionality of the committee’s formation and the legality of her suspension announced in April.
The five-member committee includes Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang—Supreme Court Justice (Chairman), Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu—Supreme Court Justice, Daniel Yaw Domelevo—Former Auditor-General Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces Representative Prof. James Sefah Dzisah, and Associate Professor at the University of Ghana.Justice Torkornoo requested the apex court to bar Gabriel Scott Pwamang and Samuel Adib-Asiedu from sitting on the case, citing a conflict of interest.
She again argued that Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu also served as a Supreme Court panel member who presided over a related injunction application.
The suspended Chief Justice also raised questions about the eligibility of the three remaining committee members, Daniel Yao Domelovo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Prof. James Sefah Dzisah, under Articles 146 (1), (2), (4), 23, and 296 of the Constitution and sections of the Oaths Act, 1972.Article 23—This article guarantees administrative justice, stating that all administrative bodies and officials must act fairly and reasonably and comply with the law.
Article 296—This provision regulates the exercise of discretionary power by public officials, requiring them to act fairly, transparently, and without bias. It prevents arbitrary decision-making and ensures that discretion is exercised within legal limits.
Oaths Act, 1972—This law governs the oaths of office taken by public officials, ensuring they uphold their duties with integrity.
The Attorney-General, in response to Madam Torkonoo’s interlocutory injunction, also filed an affidavit on May 26, stating that there is no basis in law for the two Supreme Court judges to be restrained from participating in the petition probe.
The Supreme Court on May 28 dismissed a supplementary affidavit filed on May 26, where the suspended Chief Justice made allegations of rights abuse by the committee.
Justice Torkonoo alleged she was subjected to mental torture at the hearing. According to her, upon her arrival at the venue set for her hearing, she was made to go through a body search, her phones and laptops were collected, and her spouse and children were denied access to the room.
According to the apex court, the events referenced happened before the committee investigated the petitions for her removal — proceedings that, by law, are expected to be held in camera.
So far, the Supreme Court has dismissed four suits filed against the petitions seeking the removal of the Chief Justice.
Justice Torkornoo was appointed as Ghana’s 15th Chief Justice in June 2023, succeeding Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah. Her appointment marked her as the third woman to serve in the role in Ghana’s history.
Subsequently, Justice Torkonoo, on Wednesday, June 26, held a public address where she expressed concerns that the move and proceedings for her removal were politically motivated, lacked transparency, and violated due process.
Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, in response to the embattled and suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo’s public address, labelled it as “most regrettable.”
He said in light of this, “President Mahama is committed to upholding the rule of law.”
Former NPP presidential aspirant Kwabena Agyepong has added his voice to calls by the Ghana Bar Association to reconsider the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, noting that the infractions mentioned were ‘minor’ and shouldn’t have been considered in the first place.
President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has hailed the ongoing GJA elections as the “smoothest process ever.”
He stated that his outfit has so far been spared any backlash over election-related challenges.
At the time he made these remarks, 78 out of 303 expected voters had already cast their ballots.
He said the previous elections had been marred by legal and logistical challenges.
“This has been the smoothest or the most smoothest process ever,” he stated.
Mr. Dwumfour, who served as GJA president from 2023 to 2025, is seeking re-election and faces a challenge from Charles Yao Mawusi, a media trainer.
A smooth and peaceful process, Mr Dwumfuor said, is what he anticipated as the current leader.
“For me, as the president and as the leader of the association, this is what I was expecting. I was expecting a smooth process. I want an election devoid of any confusion, devoid of any election malpractices, or whatever,” he added while commending the Elections Committee’s partnership with the Electoral Commission for their coordination and organisation of a well-executed process.
Optimistic about the outcome of the elections, he emphasised his belief in GJA ending the election smoothly, just as it had started smoothly.
“I can tell you that we are going to end this election smoothly. We are going to end it peacefully. We are going to end it successfully. There’s no going to be skirmishes. There’s no going to be irregularities. There’s no going to be friction. There’s no going to be tension,” he said.
Mr. Dwumfour assured GJA members and the public of the association’s commitment to a transparent, credible, and peaceful democratic process.
The Ghana card, voter’s ID card, and Ghanaian passport are the only valid forms of identification for any electorate who seeks to cast his or her ballot.
The GJA earlier announced the successful balloting by cleared candidates who are hopeful of leading the association at different levels across the country.
Thirteen (13) national and 49 regional candidates were officially announced by the association to have been cleared to contest for their respective positions after vetting by the elections committee for the June 30 elections.
The approved candidates per the national list provided by the Elections Committee include Dwumfour Albert Kwabena and Mawusi Yao Charles, who are competing for the presidential position.
The vice president slot is being contested by Ekpe Rebecca and Mensah Mary Tawiah, while Hlordzi Dominic and Agyeman Akwasi are vying for the general secretary role.
Kudekor Maxwell and Mustapha Suleiman are standing for organizing secretary, with Badu-Agyei Bertha and Amedetor Theodora, competing for treasurer. Finally, the position of Public Affairs Officer is being contested by Ceasar Abagali and Zadok Kwame Gyesi.
However, a contender for the position of treasurer, Rufai Zambaga Saminu, the statement said, officially withdrew from the contest ahead of the balloting.
Also, at the regional level, 17 of the 49 contenders picked forms to contest for the Ashanti, Volta, Central, Upper East, Upper West, and Eastern regions.
Thirty-one (31) of the candidates are running unopposed, granting them the positions automatically as stipulated by Article 48(d)(i) of the GJA Constitution, which states: “Where at the close of nomination, only one person stands nominated, that candidate shall be declared elected by the Elections Committee.”
The regional breakdown is as follows: Domfeh Kofi Adu and Ankomah Georgina Ama are contesting for Chairperson, Osei-Wusu Nicholas for Vice Chairperson, Spio-Garbrah Beatrice for Secretary, and Parsram Neta Kris Abiana for Treasurer in the Ashanti Region.
For the Bono Region, Benneh-Siaw Regina is vying for chairperson, Peprah Kwadwo Dennis for vice chairperson, Tebra Imoro Ayibani for secretary, and Dayee Yao Daniel for treasurer.
In Bono East, Antwi Frederick is standing for chairperson, Baffoe-Adjei Dominic for Vice Chairperson, Anas Sabit for secretary, and Asante Mavis for treasurer.
Buadu Kingsley Nana and Yarboi-Tetteh David are contesting the chairperson slot in the Central Region, with Marfo Adu Gyamfi running unopposed for vice chairperson.
In the Eastern Region, the chairperson position is being contested by Neequaye Yvonne, Kanarku Neil Nii Amartey, and Ampem Darko Koranteng Stephen. Agyeman Ama Takyiwaa Ampadu is contesting for vice chairperson, while Okunor Isaac Akwetey and Afful Gloria vie for secretary. In the North East Region, Fugu Mohammed is the sole candidate for chairperson.
Yakubu Abdul-Majeed is contesting for chairperson in the Northern Region, with Futukpor Albert for secretary and Kulamon Kantam Joyce for treasurer.
In the Oti Region, Ntow Kwabena is standing for chairperson. The Tema Region has Dewornu Michael contesting for chairperson, Kyei Patricia for secretary, and Attiaka Edith Elikplim for treasurer.
In the Upper East Region, Sore Albert and Quansah Ebo-Bruce are both contesting the chairperson position. Asaah Atinga Joshua is running for vice chairperson, Adongo Apubeo Anthony for secretary, and Wegwi Raymond for treasurer.
Bomanjo Seidu Ibrahim and Kuorsoh Prosper are vying for chairperson in the Upper West Region, with Naziru Alhassan and Awudu Ivan Domassa contesting for secretary and treasurer, respectively.
In the Volta Region, Agbaxode Emmanuel and Harrison Kofi Belley are battling for the chairperson. The vice chairperson slot is being contested by Setordjie Ivy and Wedanu Jerry Hanson. Atsivor Kofi Lambert is running for secretary, while Nutsukpoe King Freeman and Kpodo Ewoenam are vying for treasurer.
Finally, in the Western Region, Cudjoe Desmond is contesting for chairperson, Mensa Agbeli Kwame for vice chairperson, Smith Joana Shirley Ewurama for secretary, and Aziz Tunde Marie for treasurer.
Brazil forward Neymar says he is not ready to quit football as long as his love for the game continues to drive him.
He will quit only when he feels he can ‘no longer perform’ as he wants to, he told his wife, Bruna Biancardi, who asked him why he continues playing professionally, during a family and friends interview he hosted.
He said, “What drives me is the love I still feel for football.
“The desire I feel to play, to be on the field, that’s what drives me every day; to wake up, to train. The love I feel for football will never end. It will stay with me for the rest of my life.
At some point, the desire to play, because I can no longer do it, because I can no longer perform as I want to, will end … As long as I still have the desire to play football, you’ll have to share me, my love.”
The interview was aired just days after his 6-month contract extension with his childhood club, Santos.
Neymar returned to Santos in January on a 6-month contract, after ending his contract with Al-Hilal following mutual consent by both parties.
Upon joining Santos, Neymar took a massive pay cut, from earning €1.5 million per week tax-free at Al-Hilal to taking a base salary of about £32,500 per week.
His comments come in the wake of growing public and media speculation about whether he can — or should — continue his football career, given his injury struggles and limited appearances.
Others also believe his off-field lifestyle has affected his brilliance on the field.
Some fans and pundits also believe his injuries, which have affected his effectiveness, are a “wind-down” phase, prompting talk of retirement.
But Neymar believes that, “I can’t control other people’s thoughts,” he told his wife. “It’s difficult to answer people who understand absolutely nothing about our lives…
Judging is easy, but understanding what’s behind it is difficult…I’ve spent my entire career a little sad because of this, because of people who don’t know me talking about me and not just about football”.
Son of President Mahama and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Legacy Rise Sport, Sharaf Mahama, has gained a new nickname following a stunning display of some football skills.
In the video shared on X (formerly Twitter), Sharaf was captured in a yellow Black Stars jersey with black trousers, beaming with smiles as he engaged in some informal training aimed at perfecting his dribble and penalty kicks skills on an AstroTurf in Accra.
While at it, Sharaf stunned onlookers with some exciting dribbles. Clearly impressed, some started chanting the name of legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, “C Ro,” while others shouted “superstar” in appreciation.
Following this, he then began his penalty kicks practice. Out of three shots, his last shot found the back of the net, with the first two hitting the goalpost and the other being blocked by the keeper, respectively.
Sharaf, despite his involvement in politically related activities, has not hidden his love for sports, especially boxing.
He has been in the spotlight recently for the promotion of the barely explored sport, boxing, as compared to football in Ghana.
Recently, he collaborated with Amir Khan Promotions to host a captivating boxing tournament, Battle of the Beasts at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Friday, June 13.
The tournament featured 10 fights, with a headline bout between Ghana’s Jacob Dickson and American boxer Andrew Tabiti.
The tournament gained both local and international applause. Both local and international media reported on the initiative.
British-Niherian boxer, Anthony Joshua, American-Nigeria NBA, E.J Anosike was also present as well some W.B.O official were all present on the Fridauy night.
The star-studded event saw celebrities turn up in their numbers as well as business moguls.
Actress Fella Makafui, Juliet Ibrahim, Jackie Appiah, D Black and also industrialists Ibrahim Mahama, Osei Kwame Despite, and some members of the East Legon football club, all of whom were spotted cheering passionately from ringside seats.
Also, Ghanaian Afrobeats star and 2025 TGMA artiste of the Year, King Promise, thrilled fans at the event.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has criticised the Club World Cup as “the worst idea ever implemented in football,” citing concerns over players’ welfare.
This isn’t the first time Jürgen has made such complaints about the tournament. During his stint at Liverpool, he cited player exhaustion, particularly when Liverpool had to juggle the Club World Cup and domestic competitions.
During an exclusive interview with German newspaper Welt am Sonntag, Klopp talked about the expanded format and player development.
According to Klopp, these people sit in comfort and come up with ideas like the Club World Cup, which puts extra pressure on players and teams.
“It’s all about the game and not the surrounding events – and that’s why the Club World Cup is the worst idea ever implemented in football in this regard,” he said.
“People who have never had or do not have anything to do with day-to-day business anymore are coming up with something.
Acknowledging the financial benefits of participating in the Club World Cup, Klopp also highlighted the exclusivity terms as far as the tournament is concerned, saying, “There is insane money for participating, but it’s also not for every club.”
“Last year it was the Copa [America] and the European Championship, this year it’s the Club World Cup, and next year the World Cup. That means no real recovery for the players involved, neither physically nor mentally.”
Klopp added, “I have serious fears that players will suffer injuries they’ve never had before next season. If not next season, then it will happen at the World Cup or afterwards.
“We constantly expect the players to go into every game as if it were their last. We tell them that 70 or 75 times a year. But it can’t go on like this.
“We have to make sure they have breaks, because if they don’t get them, they won’t be able to deliver top performances – and if they can’t achieve that anymore, the entire product loses value.”
Man City’s coach, Pep Guardiola, made similar complaints about player exhaustion and intense player schedules, citing potential jeopardy in player performance in the upcoming season.
He said players hardly rest after the end of the Premier League season (May 25) and the start of the Club World Cup (June 18).
The players union, FIFPro, on June 12, recommended a one-month mandatory off-season break for professional footballers.
This year’s Club World Cup is the first to feature 32 teams and 48 games and saw Salzburg knocked out in the group stage.
In September, a week prior to suffering an ACL injury, Manchester City midfielder Rodri said players were close to going on strike because of the increase in games, while teammate Manuel Akanji suggested he would have to retire at age 30 as a result of the lack of breaks in the calendar.
FC Barcelona have confirmed the club’s plans to organise a tribute match for its best player in their history, Lionel Messi, once Camp Nou’s renovations are completed.
This was revealed by the Vice‑President for Institutional Affairs at FC Barcelona, Elena Fort, during an interview with the Spanish news outlet La Vanguardia.
“Leo Messi’s tribute at Camp Nou must take place when the stadium is 100% finished,” she told Spanish news outlet La Vanguardia.
“It will definitely happen because he is the best player in Barca’s history,” she revealed.
This is not the first time the Spanish giants have mentioned their plans to honour Messi.
The idea was first publicly mentioned in 2023 by Joan Laporta, the club’s president, shortly after Messi’s move to Inter Miami.
At the time, Laporta expressed the club’s intention to honour Messi with a proper farewell at Camp Nou, acknowledging that his 2021 departure had been abrupt and lacked the celebration he deserved.
Barca had always planned to honour his achievements at some point, and vice-president Elena Fort insists it will happen upon returning to Camp Nou.
Renovation work officially began in March 2023, shortly after Barcelona played their final match at the stadium that month.
The works, which were originally scheduled to be completed within 20 months, that’s by November the next year, to host Barca’s anniversary.
Camp Nou will be partially opened on August 10, 2025, for the Joan Gamper Trophy match, with a new completion target date slated for June 2026.
The Olympic Stadium has been Barcelona’s home since June 2023.
The project will see the ground’s capacity rise to 105,000, making it the largest venue in Europe.
“I think that in the summer of 2026, we will be able to say that the stadium is finished,” Fort added.
“Visually, it won’t be 100% finished, the roof will need to be closed. But everything will be there.”
Lionel Messi, who joined Barca’s soccer academy, La Masia, in September 2000 when he was just 13 years old, made his debut appearance in 2004 at age 17, which was quite an impressive one given his age at the time for a senior team debut.
A tribute match at the ground where Messi delivered so much of his artistry and famous nights will be a fitting tribute to a player who scored a sensational 672 goals in 778 appearances for the club.
After 17 years of playing at Barca, he bids farewell to his childhood club to join French club Paris Saint-Germain in 2021.
He had 34 major titles, including 10 La Liga crowns alongside four UEFA Champions League successes.
Africa’s richest man and president of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has urged African leaders to invest in local businesses, citing it as the ultimate move for development and liberation from underdevelopment.
During a Fireside Chat at the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings held in Abuja, Nigeria, on Friday, June 28, he warned against total dependence on foreign investors to develop businesses within the continent.
Acknowledging the impact of these foreign investors on our local industries, he highlighted that the interest of these foreigners would remain paramount instead of the growth of local business and the various economies in Africa.
“It is local businesses that will bring the real development, not foreign investors. They [foreign investors] come with capital, yes, but also with their own interests,” Dangote said, igniting a rousing applause from the audience.
He added that “true economic independence comes when we, as Africans, build and grow our own industries.”
Dangote cautioned African leaders against prioritise foreign companies over indigenous companies. “It is time for Africa to embrace an ‘Africa First’ philosophy, leveraging the continent’s vast natural and human resources to fuel homegrown prosperity,” he stated.
Citing himself as an example, he admonished that, “If I can do it, others can too.” Dangote Group which started as a modest trading firm has become one of the continent’s most powerful industrial empires.
Dangote, whose conglomerate spans cement, sugar, salt, and oil refining, urged African leaders to create an enabling environment for local businesses to thrive.
“But they need support from the government and belief from the people,” he continued.
The remarks come amid ongoing debates about the role of foreign direct investment (FDI) in African economies.
While FDI is often touted as a sign of confidence in emerging markets, critics argue that it can sometimes sideline local players and lead to profit repatriation with little long-term benefit to host countries.
Several business leaders, such as Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Ghana’s Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, and Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Columbia University, present, supported Dangote’s sentiments, calling for stronger collaboration among local entrepreneurs and stressing the need for investment in African talent, innovation, and production.
To create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in Africa, governments must address the issue of high inflation, interest rate, currency depreciation, excessive business taxes (import and export taxes), among others.
Emergency restoration works at the Obuasi Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) and Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) substations, which were affected by a devastating fire outbreak on May 21, are expected to be completed by Thursday, July 3.
According to engineers on site, the completion will allow for temporary full restoration of power to the affected areas.
A planned outage will be required when transferring load from the temporary system to the fully restored underground network, with prior notice of one to two days to affected communities.
Also, alternative power lines will be activated to minimise disruptions during the process.
The fire incident plunged Obuasi and surrounding communities, including New Edubiase, into darkness after it destroyed critical infrastructure, including transformers, underground cables, and the control room.
Emergency response teams from both GRIDCo and ECG ensured power was restored to parts of Obuasi, although load-shedding measures remain in place due to limited capacity.
Over the weekend, Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. Richard Gyan-Mensah (MP), undertook a working visit to the Obuasi GRIDCo and ECG substations to assess the extent of the damage and review progress on the restoration efforts.
The visit followed instructions from the Hon. Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor.
Hon. Gyan-Mensah was accompanied by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Dr. Frank Amoakohene; Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, Hon. Kweku Kwarteng; MCE for Obuasi Municipal, Hon. Faustilove Appiah Kanin; and MCE for Obuasi East, Hon. Kofi Adzowu.
The deputy minister reassured residents and stakeholders of the government’s commitment to ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. He emphasized that the ministry is working closely with GRIDCo and ECG to meet the July 3 deadline.
He expressed gratitude to the affected communities for their patience and cooperation and called on residents to protect ECG and GRIDCo infrastructure to prevent future occurrences.
Meanwhile, engineers have emphasised the need for a complete rewiring and replacement of major components as a long-term solution to prevent future disruptions.
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called on African leaders to tap into the continent’s rich human and resource capital for development and to attain self-sufficiency.
His call comes on the back of Africa’s over-reliance on international aid for development. He believes the continent is rich in everything from human capital to natural resources and considerable infrastructure to create ‘the Africa we need.’
African universities possess the expertise and capacity to produce the skilled workforce needed to drive progress, transforming knowledge into tangible development.
“We have all the resources we need. Look at the graduates here today—there’s nothing they cannot achieve. The question is, what are we lacking to motivate them? We must empower our engineers to manufacture what we need locally. Our professors and lecturers are brimming with knowledge—we have the capacity to make this happen,” he said.
The Asantehene continued with calls for unity and self-reliance, urging citizens to take ownership of the continent’s progress.
“Let us challenge ourselves as Africans, as Ghanaians, and work together to build our future,” the Asante Overlord said during an address at the 58th Special Congregation of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) over the weekend.
To attain this continental unity, Otumfuo called for unity, collaboration, and partnerships among African countries to unlock growth and development within the region.
“We must collaborate effectively as African nations. We’ve held discussions on Ghana’s relations with Eswatini and South-South cooperation to explore stronger partnerships. As Africans, we must prioritise trade and business among ourselves. Our economies are in our hands—if we fail to act and continue relying on the so-called ‘developed’ world, especially in these uncertain times, we risk stagnation. Africa must come first,” he stated.
The Asantehene was accompanied by His Majesty King Mswati III, Ingwenyama of the Kingdom of Eswatini, who embarked on a four-day state visit.
Meanwhile, the Asantehene also appealed to the government to prioritise the completion of the stalled KNUST Teaching Hospital project, citing its significant role in complementing the Okomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital for medical training as well as referrals.
In a direct appeal to the Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane, the Otumfuo said, “I often use occasions like this to address university matters, and today, I must speak about my teaching hospital.”
He added, “Despite significant progress, the project remains unfinished. This hospital is dear to me because of its unique purpose—it will bolster the training of KNUST’s medical and allied health students.”
On her part, the Vice President has revealed the government’s commitment to completing the long-delayed teaching hospital project at the KNUST.
“This is very important, and I want to assure you that this concern will be conveyed to the President, and I have no doubt he will take the right steps to address the issue,” she said.
The KNUST Teaching Hospital project began in 2007, with the initial plan to complete it within six years, by around 2013. However, changes in government and financial constraints have stalled the project’s completion and its operation, currently leaving it partially completed.
Though some progress has been made on the Outpatient Department (OPD) and administration block, the main structure still shows signs of abandonment with overgrown weeds, exposed window frames, and an incomplete drainage system.
The government’s fight against illegal mining (also known as galamsey) is getting more challenging as illegal miners gear up to face off against anti-galamsey teams.
A Forestry Commission Rapid Response team comprising eight members narrowly escaped death on Saturday, June 28, after they were ambushed by about 20 fully armed illegal miners still operating within the Jimira Forest Reserve in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region.
Reports indicate that officials of the team received intel that some illegal miners have begun operations in the reserve again, particularly Compartment 34 of the Jimira Forest Reserve (Bentiko-Pakyi portion).
Acting upon the news, they embarked on patrols only to be ambushed by some illegal miners who opened fire on them and blocked their entry into the forest with about three pickup trucks.
“Apparently, we had made attempts on two occasions to clamp down on illegal miners at the said portion of the reserve but were prevented by armed thugs.”
“One of our officers who was seated at the front of one of our vehicles was hit with a machete several times by the thugs,” an officer with the team is quoted to have told JoyNews reporter Erastus Asare Donkor.
This is not the first time such an incident has occurred. The most recent was on May 27, when the Rapid Team supported by 7 police officers from the Nkawie Divisional Police Command visited the area. Armed thugs prevented the team from accessing the reserve.
A similar incident about two months ago saw a member of the team get slashed in the knee with a machete by illegal miners.
The Jimira Extension Forest Reserve has become a no-go area even for forestry officials protecting the reserves.
However, some months ago, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced that through a joint military operation, some forests, including Jimira, were among seven forest reserves that had been reclaimed from illegal miners.
Earlier this year, illegal miners had taken over 44 forest reserves, devastating more than 5,000 hectares of land.
Despite previous interventions—including military deployment, arrests, and regulatory measures—illegal mining remains a persistent threat. The minister acknowledged that weak law enforcement has contributed to the problem, highlighting the country’s low prosecution rates for offenders.
Meanwhile, in enhanced anti-galamsey operations, the Ghana Police Service continues to arrest individuals who are engaged in illegal mining activities.
The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has nabbed four Chinese suspects for engaging in illegal mining activities in Atatam, in the Adansi Asokwa District in the Ashanti Region.
Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of resulted in the arrest of three (3 )suspects and the seizure of several pieces of mining equipment. These suspects are being processed for court.
Nigerian superstar, Davido’s fatherly instincts kicked in right after he saw a fan carrying a baby believed to be around 6-8 months at the birthday bash of Don Lulu’s party in Umuahia, Abia State, on Saturday, June 27.
While performing one of his hit songs, ‘Ogechi’, which features BoyPee, Brown Joel, and Hyce, he spotted one of the attendees holding a baby while cheering and dancing to Davido’s songs.
He paused singing and called out to the fan, quizzing, “Who is carrying a baby? Are you crazy? Take your baby away…he fumed, clearly disturbed by what he saw.
Right after the outburst, one of the cameramen at the front line took the baby from the guardian.
Currently, it’s unclear whether it was an attempt to give the child to Davido after his outburst or it was just to take the baby away for a short period.
Davido, after this, slammed the fan again, saying, “You are a wicked person” The cameraman then handed the baby back to the guardian.
After being captured on camera, his reaction went viral on social media, generating a variety of opinions.
Netizens lauded Davido’s reaction, with others also blaming the security and organisers of the event.
Many agreed that it was extremely dangerous to show up at such an event with a minor over fear of possible choking, infection, among other potential hazards due to the baby’s vulnerability.
why would you bring your baby STAMPEDE SUFFOCATION any of these could occur
Meanwhile, Davido, a father of four, including two older daughters and twins.
The twins, a boy and girl, who were born in October 2023 after his three-year old, David Ifeanyi Adedeji Adeleke Jr drowned in a swimming pool at the family’s residence in Banana Island, Lagos October 31, 2022.
France forward Kylian Mbappe is suing his former Paris Saint-Germain over what he describes as moral harassment.
The suit stems from an allged treatment the French club subjected the current Real Madrid star to when he informed them of his intention to leave on a free transfer in June 2023 and would not be triggering the optional one-year extension in his deal.
Following this, it’s reported that, the club on the other hand sidelined him and placed him on “loft”—a group of sidelined players—during the 2023 pre-season.
This, Mbappé’s legal team contends was a form of psychological pressure intended to coerce the French forward into triggering the one-year contract extension clause or sign a new contract.
A court in Paris has assigned two judges to investigate the situation after Mbappe complained on May 16, according to RMC Sport.
The investigation and case run on the side of the current legal tussle between the player and his former club over unpaid wages.
According to Mbappe, PSG owes him €55 million (about $61 million) in unpaid wages and bonuses particularly in the final months to the expiry of his contract.
A claim the club blatantly denies saying, club, Mbappé voluntarily gave up those earnings by choosing not to extend his stay.
This amount relates to the final months of his contract.
PSG aren’t the only club accused of dumping players in an attempt to make them sign a new contract or accept an offer from elsewhere.
The Professional Footballers’ Union filed a complaint back in January 2024 against French clubs for the same practice.
Earlier, PSG women’s team player Kheira Hamraoui sued PSG for similar treatment.
Meanwhile,PSG formally announced an end of era between the club and Kylian Mbappé at the end of the 2023–24 season.
This was after Kylianpublicly announced on May 10, 2024, that he would not renew his contract.
In a heartfelt video, he confirmed, “It’s my last year at Paris Saint-Germain. I will not extend and the adventure will come to an end in a few weeks.”
Real Madrid then announced Mbappé’s signing on June 3, 2024, confirming a five-year deal that runs through 2029. The club made the announcement via an official statement and coordinated social media posts.
Cristiano Ronaldo has penned a two-year contract extension with his Saudi club, Al-Nassr.
The Portugese’s contract was set for expiry on June 30.
This left many speculate a new journey elsewhere or an extension with the Saudi club espcially after the five time Ballon d’Or winner about a month ago, posted on social media “the chapter is over”.
However, the 40 year-old player will stay with the Saudi Pro League club until beyond his 42nd birthday.
The Portugal captain, joined the Riyadh-based team in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United following a fall-out with then manager Erik-ten Hag and having criticised the club durinhg an interview with Piers Morgan.
In an X post on June 26, he confirmed another stint with Al-Nassr saying , “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”
A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together. 🟡🔵 pic.twitter.com/JRwwjEcSZR
Although Al-Nassr have not added to their nine domestic titles during Ronaldo’s time at the club, CR 7 has added to the club a barrage of goals.
Ronaldo has scored 99 goals in 111 appearances for Al-Nassr,also winning bagged two Golden Boot awards during his time there, including a record-breaking 35-goal season in 2023–24.
Ronaldo scored 35 times in 41 matches across all competitions last term and was the league’s top scorer for a second consecutive season.
Having helped Portugal win the Uefa Nations League a little over two weeks ago, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, Sporting and Juventus forward will almost certainly now be targeting a sixth World Cup appearance next summer.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino raised the prospect of Ronaldo joining a team involved in the Club World Cup after Al-Nassr failed to qualify for the extended tournament which is being held in the United States.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo said he had received offers from participating teams but turned them down because hebelieves he would be a champion in Saudi Arabia.
“My goal, it’s always to win something important for Al Nassr. And of course I still believe in that. This is why I renewed the two years more because I believe that I will be a champion in Saudi Arabia,” he noted.
He also lauded the Saudi Pro League’s over the years saying, “Of course, we are still improving but I believe that at this moment we are in the top five [leagues in the world] already. I still believe that we will continue to improve… I am happy because I know that the league is very competitive” he concluded.
The decision to stay until at least 2027, which is certain to be highly lucrative, appears to rule out any future prospect of Ronaldo returning to play at the highest level in Europe.
It remains to be seen who will be leading the first team at Al-Nassr going forward, after former AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli left the club this week.
A Nigerian actor, film producer, and director, Kayode Adewumi, has sadly lost his life after battling prolonged sickness.
This was announced by his family in an Instagram post yesterday Saturday, June 28. The actor passed on in the morning in Toronto, Canada.
The family confirmed that the 49-year old battled a long time illness before his death.
In their post, they requested for privacy and kindness as they mourn the passing of their beloved, saying further details would be shared in due time.
The statement read, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved, Kayode Peters Adewumi, who passed on peacefully this morning June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada.
“KP braved, challenged and conquered a long time illness until his last breath this morning.
“KP, a cherished son, husband, father, brother, and friend, a gifted film maker, actor and producer whose work inspired many. Beyond his talent, it was his kindness, warmth, and generous spirit that truly defined him. He touched countless lives, both on and off the screen, and will be deeply missed.”
Kayode Peters emerged in Nigeria’s entertainment industry in the early 2000s.
He began with stage performances as part of the Theatre 15 troupe at the University of Lagos and later transitioning to television after he was casted in popular iconic comedy series “Papa Ajasco and Company”, which introduced him to a wider audience giving light to his comedic and story telling skills.
In the early 2000s, he became more popular after he created and directed sitcom “Flatmates”, which first aired in the earland later returned as “My Flatmates”, earning him a loyal fanbase.
Peters also directed and produced several notable films and series, including “13 Letters” and “Crazy Grannies” (both in 2021), and “Excuse My African” (2018), which was shot in New York City over the years.
His death has caused shocking waves in the Nigerian movie industry with many actors and actresses expressing their grief over the sad news.
Billionaire and founder of Amazon, Jeff Bezos married long-time girlriend TV presenter Lauren Sanchez in a lavish Italian styled ceremony in Venice on Frida, June 27.
The ceremony attracted royals, movie stars, models, tech giants trailed by paparazzi in water taxis as they made their way to the three-day event.
Oprah Winfrey, Orlando Bloom, Kylie Jenner and Ivanka Trump, the Kardashians, Bill Gates among others were present for the lavish event.
Though star-studded, the couple held a strictly by invitation ceremony with about 200 guests,and 70 being close family members with Sanchez telling Vogue Sanchez that the event was “extremely intimate”.
The festivities is expected to end withn a grand party featuring former medieval shipyard, where Lady Gaga and Elton John are expected to perform.
Adorned in a lace Dolce & Gabbana haute couture gown that took 900 hours of atelier work, Sanchez told photographers that she “felt like a princess”.
According to reports, Lauren Sánchez’s custom is estimated to cost between $250,000 and $400,000, though theexact price is yet to be disclosed.
Friday’s ceremony took place on the small island of San Giorgio, where Matteo Bocelli – son of Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli – reportedly performed.
Oprah Winfrey, who attended the pair’s engagement party in 2023, was among the 200 guestsKim and Khloe Kardashian shared pictures from the event, and were later photographed speeding away in a water taxiActor Orlando Bloom posed for photographers as he left the eventA tuxedo-clad Bezos waved from a small motor boat
While the exact cost of the wedding is not known, estimates range from $20m (£14m) to more than $50m.
The event has attracted protests from a variety of groups in Venice, from locals fighting over-tourism to climate change activists.
This will be the second wedding for both Sanchez and Bezos.
The couple have seven children between them from previous marriages and relationships.
They got engaged in May 2023 on board their 417-foot sailing yacht, Koru, named after a Maori symbol for “new life.”
In November 2023, the pair held an engagement party in Beverly Hills, with Oprah Winfrey, Salma Hayek Pinault, Barbra Streisand, Kris Jenner in attendance.
Fashion designer Domenico Dolce, who helped to dress Sanchez for her big dayExcited onlookers spotted Jeff Bezos on his way to San Giorgio island in VenicePeople have travelled on Venice’s canals for centuriesKhloe Kardashian and her mother Kris Jenner braved the heat as the mercury rose in VeniceUS media personality Kris Jenner and her partner, manager Corey Gamble, were part of the Kardashian contingentUS tech entrepreneur Bill Gates and partner Paula Hurd took in the sights
Hollywood actor Leonardo Dicaprio tried to keep a low profile in a black baseball cap at the wedding Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos gave a joint thumbs-up at the Aman Hotel
Gospel musician Diana Hamilton has explained why she doesn’t consider herself a musician by profession despite her widespread success.
According to her, she always goes back to nursing and doesn’t solely define her career by music.
“I struggle to say I am doing music professionally because I am not. That is why I would always go back to nursing. I never said this is the right time.
Anywhere I saw the microphone, and I was given a chance, I picked it,” she emphasized.
She discovered her love for music at a very early age,highlighting how she’d turn every text, or message into a song when given the least opportunity.
She recounted how “whenever they gave me a long list to recite something, I would turn it into a song”.
“I remember in church, at 13, I took the microphone to sing because it was my birthday and my teacher had taught me a song, and I sang it. But even prior to that, she recounted.
Nursing she insists is a calling she says.
Diana Hamilton is considered one of the most successful artiste both in the international and local scene.
Her music career took shape when she became a backing vocalist for gospel legend Francis Agyei around 1991. In 2002, she released her debut album “Ɔsoro Bɛkasa” which introduced her to the Ghanaian gospel scene.
Following the success of the album, her subsequent songs, including “Ensi Wo Yie”, “Blessings”, and “Yehowah”, cemented her place as one of the most influential gospel artists in Africa and beyond.
In recent years she has had collaborations with other international acts such as Nigeria’s Mercy Chinwo
Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour has stepped down after nearly forty years in office.
She announced it during a staff meeting on June 25. Despite her stepping down, she revealed that she is not cutting ties completely with Condé Nast altogether but reducing her duties.
Anna Wintour would now take on the role as the publisher’s global chief content officer as well as Vogue’s global editorial director.
Her new role forms part of a wider global restructuring of the company.
Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch, during an interview with CNN, noted that the company is currently looking for a replacement, saying it’s time for Anna to make time for her loved ones as well.
“Anna has essentially been working three jobs since 2020. It makes sense for her to step back from American Vogue so she can make time for everyone who needs her,” he said.
Her new title will be “head of editorial content,” which means she will be in charge of what gets written, edited, and published in the magazine.
Anna Wintour began her work with Condé Nast as the editor-in-chief of American Vogue in 1988. She took over from Grace Mirabella and immediately set the tone for a bold new chapter in fashion publishing.
Her first cover that year broke long-held traditions by featuring a model in jeans and a jeweled Christian Lacroix top, signaling her intent to merge high fashion with accessible style.
In 1992, she broke with a century-old Vogue tradition by featuring a man on the cover (in the form of Richard Gere, who appeared alongside Cindy Crawford, his wife at the time).
Though Wintour is most closely associated with Vogue, in 2020, she became Condé Nast’s chief content officer, overseeing all its titles globally, including Vanity Fair, Wired, GQ, Architectural Digest, Bon Appétit, and Condé Nast Traveler.
Over the decades, she redefined Vogue covers by spotlighting celebrities such as Madonna, Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, and Michelle Obama, transforming them into powerful cultural statements rather than just fashion showcases.
She also featured budding designers like Marc Jacobs, John Galliano, and Alexander McQueen, giving them global visibility and shooting them into stardom.
In the 1990s, she took the Met Gala from a modest museum fundraiser and elevated it into fashion’s most exclusive and influential event, solidifying her reputation as the queen of couture diplomacy.
She also led Vogue’s digital evolution, launching Vogue Runway and expanding its online reach to engage new audiences across the global platforms.
She cemented her global influence in 2020 when she was named Global Editorial Director of Vogue.
Ghanaian actress Matilda Asare has acquired a master’s degree in Human Resources and Management (Strategy) from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
This milestone marks a significant step in both her personal and professional life.
After almost a decade and half of earning a Bachelor’s degree at the Baptist University College in 2011, the Kumawood star has earned another academic honour.
At Baptist, she first completed a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources and Management after which she had to put school on hold to attend to other responsibilities.
Reflecting on her journey through academics, she explained the challenges of balancing schooling with childbirth, career among others saying “it was not easy“.
She explained that she had to put her academic ambitions on hold due to work demands and family responsibilities.
“I completed my first degree in 2011 at Baptist University College. I did Human Resources and Management. I was in school while I was actively involved in film making but people didn’t know.
I had to pause several times because of work, raising kids, and family responsibilities. But I never gave up on going back to complete what I started,” she said.
Matilda stated that her return to academia was inspired by her desire to gain more knowledge, especially as she transitions into film production.
Interestingly, while many expected her to pursue a programme related to filmmaking, the actress revealed that her desire to transition into production—where she’d engage more closely with people—motivated her to choose a course that equips her with the skills to do just that
“I felt it was necessary to learn more about management and other things because I am now moving into producing movies,” she added.
Her graduation held at tKNUST on Friday, June 27, was attended by several key industry figures, including Rev. Samuel Nyamekye of Miracle Films, Apostle John Prah, and director Jones Agyeman, who came to support her on her special day.
When asked why only a few of her fellow movie stars attended, she explained that there was no intentional effort to exclude anyone from her special day—it was simply because she didn’t invite them.
Apostle Prah and a few others who showed up had found out about the event on their own and later reached out to her to confirm its authenticity.
Meanwhile, the Master’s degree doesn’t end her academic journey, Matilda says she’d continue to acquire more skills at a given opportunity.
Matilda’s achievement reflects a rising trend among Ghanaian creatives who are returning to school to enhance their skills and expand their influence beyond performance.
In November last year, Clara Benson, well known in the film industry as Maame Serwaa Graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Knutsford University.
Other entertainers including Van Vicker, Guru, D Cryme, Samini, Amerado, Kokovelli, Jackie Appiah and Kalsoume Sinare have pursued higher education, balancing academic life with their careers in the arts.
Afrobeats sensation Tekno has released an energetic single, “Power Bank,” an anthem that blends playful romance with irresistible dance-floor energy.
This Afro-pop track is a mix of playful romance and irresistible dance-floor energy.
The tune is already turning heads just a day after its release, with over 30k views on YouTube.
“Power Bank,” released under emPawa Africa and Cartel Music, follows the success of his previous single “Alhaji,” which has now garnered over 30k uses on TikTok and has already amassed over 10 million streams across platforms.
The music video, shot in Abuja and directed by the acclaimed Kemz, features Nollywood actress, socialite, and screen goddess Regina Daniels as Tekno’s on-screen love interest.
From intimate moments to high-energy car chase scenes, the visual captures the lighthearted, romantic energy of a love that recharges just like a power bank.
It opens with Regina Daniels piling clothes into a washing machine. The camera then cuts to her, adorned in a mini skirt and a crop top, complemented by white, average-length boots, dancing with Tekno infront of a laundrmat.
The duo dances together, holding hands, while Tekno begins to sing to Regina, telling her she’s his power bank: “You charge my battery full, when adey with you, there’s nothing I can’t do…”
It’s bold, deeply Nigerian, and built to soundtrack both dancefloors and everyday love stories.
Meanwhile, this song adds to the artist’s over 75 songs, including singles, collaborations, and tracks from his albums. Known for hit songs like “Pana,” “Skeletun,” and “Wayo,” Tekno remains one of Afrobeats’ most consistent and influential hitmakers.
Tekno emerged on the music scene in 2012 with his debut single “Holiday” under K-Money Entertainment. The track, which featured Davido, earned him a huge fan base, giving him more popularity and early attention.
However, the real dealbreaker in his career was when he signed with Made Men Music Group (MMMG) in 2013, after which he dropped hits like “Dance” and “Anything.”
This earned him a nomination for Best New Act at the 2014 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
President Mahama has made an indirect but strategic appeal to the international community to uphold their commitment to GAVI (Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation) amid the global bloc’s bid to raise $9 billion to vaccinate 500 million children from 2026 to 2030.
Delivering a speech during Gavi’s pledging summit in Brussels, co-hosted by the European Union and the Gates Foundation, President Mahama, in his concluding remarks, referred to the global powers’ seemingly huge investments in warfare over human welfare.
He drummed his message with comparisons between GAVI’s $9 million fund to vaccinate 500 million children from 2026 to 2030 andthe cost of just four U.S. B-2 Spirit bombers, each priced at around $2.13 billion, totaling a whopping $8.52 billion, which were recently used in airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
In his speech, he said, “This morning, while I was lying in bed, I did the research, and I realised that one B-2 Spirit Bomber that dropped bombs on Iran recently cost $2.13 billion. If you work the math, what GAVI is seeking is the value of four of those B-2 bombers. Surely, the world can afford the value of four B-2 bombers to save 500 million children”.
The United States used B-2 Spirit bombers to bomb Iran’s nuclear facilities during the night of June 21 to June 22, 2025. The operation, codenamed Operation Midnight Hammer, began around 2:10 a.m. Iran time and targeted key sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
The B-2s launched from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri and flew an 18-hour mission, marking one of the longest and most complex stealth bombing operations in recent history.
According to a verified report by the Hengaw Organisation for Human Rights, at least 14 children were killed during the first three days of Israeli airstrikes on Iran. These included infants as young as 2 months and 7 months old, with most of the child fatalities occurring in Tehran.
Following this, President Mahama, in his appeal, emphasized the need to protect children, who are the future of our respective countries.
“But to conclude, let me put the GAVI replenishment in context. GAVI is seeking to spend $9 billion over the next five years, from 2026 to 2030, and that is to immunize 500 million children across the world. These children’s lives will be saved to grow up to become the scientists, engineers, nurses, teachers, and doctors of tomorrow,” he added during the one-day event held on June 25.
He continued that the decision to choose life over death lies with the world. “It’s a choice we have to make, between taking lives and saving lives. And I’m sure that we will save lives instead of taking lives.”
Also, President Mahama’s comments come amid the US government’s announcement on June 25 that it was halting its financial contributions to GAVI over vaccine safety and transparency, particularly around GAVI’s recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic and the use of the DTPw vaccine.
Since the founding of GAVI in 2000, the United States has been one of the major donors, contributing over $8 billion to its programs, and this accounts for roughly 26.7% of GAVI’s overall funding to date
Gavi, on the other hand, blatantly denied these claims, citing its commitment to science-based decisions and World Health Organisation guidelines.
Even though the USA has frozen its funding to GAVI, it currently still holds its seat as a board member, alongside countries like Australia and South Korea. So while the U.S. is technically still a member of Gavi’s governance structure, its financial support has been suspended for now.
