Beyoncé’s songs, which are yet to be released among several items, have been stolen in Atlanta, authorities have confirmed.
The songs, saved on hard drives containing her tour plans, show plans, and past and future set lists for her tour, were among the items stolen from the car of one of her choreographers.
“The hard drives contained watermarked music, some unreleased music, footage plans for the show and past and future set lists,” the police report stated
The theft happened just two days before Beyoncé’s first Atlanta performance as part of her four-night Cowboy Carter tour stop in the city.
An arrest warrant has been issued for the suspect’s arrest, although the suspect’s identity has yet to be made public.
How the theft happened
Recounting the incident to the police, Christopher Grant (choreographer) and Diandre Blue (dancer)told the police that they had parked their rented 2024 Black Jeep Wagoneer at a food hall in Atlanta around 8:09 p.m. on July 8, 20252.
Although the food hall has not been confirmed or mentioned in the police report, a source stated that the theft occurred in a parking deck near Krog Street Market, a well-known food hall and gathering spot in the city.
They told police they were “carrying some personal sensitive information for the musician Beyoncé” in the vehicle that was also stolen.
That included “five jump drives containing watermarked music, unreleased music, footage plans for shows past and future, and set list”, the report states.
Other items reported stolen included a laptop, designer clothes and Apple AirPods. Authorities used tracking information on the laptop and headphones to track where the items may have gone, the police report notes.
Authorities also dusted the vehicle for any fingerprints and discovered “two very light prints”.
It is unclear whether the stolen items have been recovered.
The BBC has contacted a representative for Beyoncé for comment.
Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe has dragged The Red Devils to court over alleged negligent medical advice.
Axel Tuanzebe officially filed his legal claim against Manchester United on July 9. He claims the club gave him medical advice that could have harmed him.
According to sources, the case of the injury which earned the “harmful medical” advice happened somewhere around July 2022. Filed under the “Clinical Negligence – Part 7 Claim – Medical Advice”, the case is considered a high-value claim, estimated to exceed £1 million.
Tuanzebe was out for 195 days in his final season at the club before he was loaned to Stoke in January 2023, where he made just five appearances.
Before his exit from Man Utd in the summer of 2023 to Ipswich following his contract expiry, he was sidelined for 195 days during his final season at Old Trafford.
He began his journey with Man Utd as a boy, rising through the youth team to the senior team, where he made 37 appearances.
His stint at Man Utd was plagued with injuries, with the first being a hip injury he suffered during training in 2019 ahead of a game with Liverpool.
He was then ruled out for the rest of the season after injuring himself in a Carabao Cup victory over Colchester United that December.
Some outlets have reported that the injuries involved reportedly include hip, ankle, and hamstring issues.
He was loaned to Aston Villa thrice—2018, 2019, and 2021—and also played for Napoli in 2022.
Tuanzebe’s lawyers, Simons Muirhead Burton, and United have so far declined to comment on the issue.
FIFA did not invite the global football players’ union, FIFPRO, to a summit meeting in New York between FIFA president Gianni Infantino and players’ groups, where player welfare and scheduled time of rest were discussed and “consensus” reached despite the union’s huge representation of players worldwide.
This is according to sources, as reported by ESPN.
This comes after an announcement by FIFA in an official statement published on its channels and shared with media houses in the early hours of Sunday, July 13, 2025 (Saturday evening in the U.S.) regarding an agreement that has been reached about player rest and welfare.
However, this high-profile meeting had been held on the blindside of FIFPRO, a union that represents 66,000 players worldwide, and the UK-based Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA).
FIFPRO had been excluded from the decision it had advocated so much for.
It was quite vocal, especially following the staging of the expanded 32-team Club World Cup in the U.S. this summer.
The players’ union, FIFPro, on June 12, recommended a one-month mandatory off-season break for professional footballers.
Just a few hours before the finale of the Club World Cup, FIFPRO released a strongly worded statement on Sunday describing the tournament as one “…held under unacceptable conditions, with matches scheduled during extreme heat that put players’ physical integrity at serious risk”
“It was a grandiose performance that inevitably brings to mind Nero’s Rome and its ‘bread and circuses’—entertainment for the masses while behind the curtain, inequality, precariousness, and the neglect of the true protagonists deepen”, the words of the statement cut deep.
For a tournament as such to be fixed under the purported circumstances, FIFPRO believes “This situation must not only be condemned but firmly addressed.”
And in a statement released to ESPN on Sunday, Marchi, who chose to fly back to Argentina rather than attend the Club World Cup final between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain in protest at FIFA’s claims of an agreement, said that FIFA are risking a “dangerous disconnect” with players.
“While the recent Club World Cup generated enthusiasm among numerous fans and allowed some of the world’s leading figures to be seen in a single tournament, FIFPRO cannot fail to point out, with absolute clarity, that this competition hides a dangerous disconnect with the true reality experienced by most footballers around the world,” Marchi said.
“What was presented as a global celebration of football was nothing more than a fiction created by FIFA, promoted by its president, without dialogue, sensitivity, and respect for those who sustain the game with their daily efforts.”
Meanwhile, it is reported that player representatives who showed up for the meeting with Infantino included national union officials whose organisations have been expelled from FIFPRO or who have lost their position at FIFPRO following a democratic process.
Also, ESPN has reported that senior player representatives regard FIFA’s statement as “deeply flawed”, highlighting that none of the decisions taken at the meeting were legally binding.
The surge and mass production of AI-generated content on YouTube has prompted the video-sharing platform to announce a review and update of its monetisation policy under the YouTube Partner Program (YPP).
The YouTube Partner Program is how creators earn money from their content.
In a formal statement shared on July 7 on YouTube’s Support page- a platform where the company shares updates and announcements- it spelt out modifications concerning content and its monetisation policy.
“We’re updating our guidelines to better identify mass-produced and repetitive content. This update better reflects what inauthentic content looks like today,” parts of the statement read.
According to the statement, effective July 15, content would now be subjected to strict scrutiny, and those found as repetitive with no intention to educate or entertain would be demonetised.
“On July 15, 2025, we’re updating our guidelines to better identify mass-produced and repetitive content. This update better reflects what inauthentic content looks like today”, it continued.
Also, content that has been created with heavy use of AI with little to no human effort would be demonetised.
“AI-assisted content is acceptable, but only if it includes considerable human input. Content created with little to no human effort may not be eligible for monetisation.”
What YouTube considers repetitive content
Content taken from other platforms or channels must be subject to significant transformation enough to be viewed as original content.
Repetitive content must serve a clear purpose — it should be either entertaining or educational, not just created to gain views.
This policy is also expected to affect clickbait, templated videos, and AI-generated content, particularly those using robotic voices or lightly edited versions of others’ work.
Eligibility Requirements
Below are the specifications:
At least 1,000 subscribers.Either 4,000 valid public watch hours in the past 12 months or 10 million valid Shorts views in the last 90 days.
Uncertainty Around Enforcement
YouTube has not listed the penalties for violating the new rules. Also, there is no mention of suspensions, strikes, or demonetisation in the updated terms. However, the company says the changes are meant to align monetisation rules with evolving content trends and prevent abuse of the system.
Also, YouTube’s update forms part of its recent decision to ban users under 16 from livestreaming without adult supervision.
US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, July 8, announced his decision to attend the Club World Cup final, which was being hosted in the USA at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Just as promised, he showed up, but not only to present the trophy; he also joined the Blues to celebrate their win yesterday, Sunday, July 13.
The gesture appeared to have come as a surprise to the Blues’ skipper and man of the night, Cole Palmer.
Reece, during an interview, mentioned that he was aware that Trump was going to give the trophy to them and step aside, but after the presentation, he stayed.
Following the presentation, FIFA President Gianni Infantino invited Trump to move aside, possibly so he could also take part in the ceremony or have a photo taken, but Reece said,
“They told me that he was going to present the trophy and then exit the stage, and I thought that he was going to exit the stage, but he wanted to stay.
“He just congratulated me and the team for lifting the trophy and told us to enjoy the moment.”
Trump stayed for some time before later exiting with Infantino.
Following the Blues’ 3-0 win over Paris St-Germain in New Jersey on Sunday, Trump presented the trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James.
However, Trump remained alongside James and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and applauded as James lifted the trophy—staying in position for a few seconds before he and Infantino left at the rear of the stage.
Cole Palmer, who notched a brace, also mentioned his surprise after Trump decided to celebrate their win. He added, “I knew he was going to be here, but I didn’t know he was going to be on the stand when we lifted the trophy.
“I was a bit confused, yes.”
The final of the expanded Club World Cup was attended by 81,118 people at MetLife Stadium.
In a later interview with DAZN at halftime, Trump mentioned that he was “having a really great time.”
In a longer interview broadcast later on Sunday, he commended FIFA president for his contributions and supervision of the growth of the sport.
“Gianni is a friend of mine, he’s done such a great job with the league and with soccer – or as they would call it ‘football’, but I guess we call it soccer. But I’m not sure that change could be made very easily.
“But it’s great to watch – and this is a little bit of an upset that we’re watching today, isn’t it? So far. It’s incredible.”
When it was suggested he could make an executive order so that the sport was referred to as “football” from now on, Trump smiled and said, “I think we could do that. I think I could do that.”
The United States, Canada, and Mexico will co-host the 2026 men’s World Cup next summer.
This year’s Club World Cup is the first to feature 32 teams and 48 games.
The expansion featured four African countries: Al-Ahly of Egypt, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa, Tunisia’s Esperance Sportive de Tunis, and Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca.
Chelsea played against PSG in the finals and triumphed by 3-0, which was a surprise to many given the French club’s heavy win against Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The Blues secured their second Club World Cup title following Palmer’s brace, and the other goal came from the 43rd minute, João Pedro.
Palmer was awarded the best player of the night, winning the Golden Ball, and Robert Sanchez won the Golden Glove for best keeper.
Chelsea earned a record-breaking $123 million in total, including a $40 million bonus for winning the final.
Nigerian Grammy Award-winning singer Temilade Openiyi, affectionately addressed as Tems, has set a record as the first African artist to perform at the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup Final Halftime Show.
The tournament held on Sunday night at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, in the US, saw Tems offer a stunning display while singing her hit track “Love Me JeJe” alongside a group of yellow- and white-clothed choreographers.
She performed alongside global stars like Doja Cat and J Balvin, with surprise appearances from Coldplay and Emmanuel Kelly.
The show was co-produced by FIFA and Global Citizen. The performance opened with J Balvin’s hits “Mi Gente” and “Reggaeton,” followed by Tems’ Grammy-winning track.
The conclusion of the revamped, expanded Club World Cup was attended by 81,118 people at MetLife Stadium.
This year’s Club World Cup is the first to feature 32 teams and 48 games.
The expansion featured four African countries: Al-Ahly of Egypt, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa, Tunisia’s Esperance Sportive de Tunis, and Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca.
Chelsea played against PSG in the finals and triumphed by 3-0, which was a surprise to many given the French club’s heavy win against Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The Blues secured their second Club World Cup title following Palmer’s brace, and the other goal came from the 43rd minute, João Pedro.
Palmer was awarded the best player of the night, winning the Golden Ball, and Robert Sanchez won the Golden Glove for best keeper.
Chelsea earned a record-breaking $123 million in total, including a $40 million bonus for winning the final.
Ghanaian media personality and entertainment analyst, MC Yaa Yeboah, has denied insulting King Paluta after the artist was captured in a video insulting a fan.
In a viral video that surfaced online on June 29, Paluta was seen insulting a woman during a performance at the All White Boat Party in London.
Paluta paused halfway through his performance to insult a female guest who appeared unimpressed and allegedly gestured for him to leave the stage.
He called her “foolish” and mocked her wig, saying, “If you don’t f** with me, I don’t f*** with you either”*
This stirred reactions online with many slamming Paluta for his behaviour.
Among the many who criticised the Aseda hitmaker was Yaa Yeboah, who chastised the rapper and singer for lacking personality during her appearance on UTV’s United Showbiz.
Her comments did not sit well with Paluta and his fans which subjected her to backlash.
Speaking on the same platform on Saturday, July 13, 2025, Yaa Yeboah contended that her comments weren’t an insult to Paluta, explaining what her use of ‘personality’ means to buttress her point.
Yaa Yeboah stated that she can never say Paluta is not talented, revealing that she has personally promoted his songs before.
“I didn’t sit here to insult King Paluta. What I said wasn’t an insult, and I never said he’s not talented. Don’t put words into my mouth,” she stated firmly
Nonetheless, Yaa stood by her words that it was not perfect for King Paluta to insult a female fan on stage, and that raises questions about his personality.
A video that surfaced online shows him hurling insults at a patron he claims was giving him a “bad reaction” during his performance. This unfortunate scene has sparked widespread criticism, with industry players and social media users expressing their disappointment at the rapper’s conduct.
Undoubtedly, King Paluta’s action was unbecoming of a public figure and an artiste of that stature, especially one whose brand is now gaining solid ground on both local and international stages. As an artiste who got a nomination in the Artiste of the Year category of the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards and has earned public admiration through songs like ‘Yahitte’, ‘Aseda’, ‘Makoma’, ‘For the Popping’, among others, his image should radiate maturity, discipline and control. It is only fair and right that we hold him accountable for falling short in this regard.
That notwithstanding, the depth of the backlash he is receiving is alarming. It reeks of unprofessionalism. It smacks of emotional insensitivity. It lacks fairness and objectivity.
Already, King Paluta has responded with a song laced with subliminal jabs, possibly at those chastising him. While this may win him sympathy from loyal fans or serve as a release valve for his frustration, it does not help his image in the long term. His refusal to apologise is also not doing him any good. In moments like these, humility speaks louder than talent. A simple acknowledgement of wrongdoing could go a long way to mend bridges and restore confidence in his brand. But I hear Paluta’s recalcitrance is one beyond even his handlers.
I don’t know where he is headed with this posture, but if this trend of insults and counterattacks continues, it could significantly harm his career. Brands may hesitate to associate with him, organisers may avoid booking him for international gigs, and fans who are the bedrock of any artist’s success may start to drift away.
Musician King Paluta
Even worse, the narrative may shift from his music to his temper, a shift that could derail his momentum. Maybe he wants to tailor his brand along the Shatta Wale model. But the big question is whether he is ready to go through everything that comes with living the Shatta brand; it’s not for the faint-hearted.
In the meantime, King Paluta must rise above the polemics. It is within his power to salvage the situation and regain goodwill. Offering an apology, either in person or via a public statement, will not make him weak; it will show maturity.
To our colleagues in the media and the creative arts industry, I am not here to assume the highest moral ground on this matter. We all make mistakes. Sometimes, annoying situations may steal the bigger part of our emotions, and we may say things that we will regret later. But we can only get better when we watch each other’s backs and whip in line when one strays.
Let us use our voices wisely. Let us demand better from our artistes, but let us not bury them under the weight of our words. The purpose of criticism must always be to build, not break.
In an industry already struggling with support systems, destroying potential icons through unchecked vitriol does no one any good. King Paluta erred, but let us find better ways of helping him be a better person.
About the author Kwame Dadzie is an arts and culture journalist at the Multimedia Group. He writes for myjoyonline.com and hosts the most authoritative entertainment talk show in Ghana (Showbiz A-Z on Joy FM). He is also the co-host of Daybreak Hitz, Ghana’s ultimate entertainment and lifestyle morning show.
Social media influencer Princess Ama Burland has shared a post suggesting that she has bought a BMW.
The post comes about three to four months after she shared a video on X which captured her saying,
“Today is 16th March, if you are watching this, it means I’ve bought the BMW. If this video never comes out, it means I died before the car came because, as for the car, I have bought it.”
Fast forward, on Friday, 12th July, she referred to the same post and captioned it, “If you’re seeing this…I did it.”
She has yet to show the said car to the public and also reveal the model and colour of the car she purchased.
It is unknown whether the new car has arrived yet. Neither is it clear how much she paid for the car she said she has bought.
Taking to the comments section, several netizens congratulated Ama Burland on her new car.
As of the time of publication, close to 30,000 people had watched the video confirming the purchase of the car.
Princess Amdiya Burland was born on April 25, 1998, and is currently a brand ambassador for Samsung. She is a lifestyle influencer, entrepreneur, and CEO of Ayurveda’s Hair Care Products.
Ama has partnered with major brands like Coca-Cola, Nivea, Dove Ghana, Bolt, and VitaMilk.
She was also crowned the winner of Lifestyle Influencer of the Year, Instagram Influencer of the Year, and YouTube Influencer of the Year at the 2023 Pulse Influencer Awards.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is expected to deliver to Parliament the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review on Thursday, July 24.
This is in accordance with Section 28 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), to inform the country on its economic performance and fiscal strategy halfway through the year.
The delivery of the budget by the Finance Minister was announced by Deputy Majority Leader George Kweku Ricketts-Hagan during the presentation of the Business Statement on the floor of Parliament on Friday, July 11.
“The mid-year again will happen on the 24th of July. I think the committee is on the selection issue. Right Honourable Speaker has been engaging with it. He is out of the jurisdiction, and so when he comes back, I am sure he will get it sorted out,” he said on the floor of the House.
The minister’s update is expected to include a detailed assessment of government expenditure since the start of the year (January–date).
This would include updates on revenue generation, spending, debt servicing, policy direction, and fiscal policies and decisions so far.
It will also outline any proposed amendments or adjustments to fiscal plans in light of current economic conditions.
It would also address the country’s macroeconomic performance, including issues such as inflation status, exchange rate stability, and progress on structural reforms.
As part of his delivery, the sector minister is expected to officially inform Parliament about the government’s engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and current arrangements with bilateral creditors.
Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has confirmed the receipt of $367 million from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), credited to its account on Tuesday, July 9.
This forms part of the fifth disbursement under the IMF’s $3 billion Extended Credit Facility programme, which Ghana entered into in May 2023.
This comes after the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on July 7 completed the fourth review of the US$3 billion, 36-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) Arrangement, which was approved by the Board in May 2023.
Following the Executive Board discussion on Ghana, Deputy Managing Director Bo Li issued the following statement:
“The authorities are strongly committed to restoring fiscal discipline and addressing the structural weaknesses that led to the slippages. This should be supported by continued efforts to enhance domestic revenue mobilisation and streamline non-priority expenditure while creating space for development priorities and enhanced social safety nets.”
This brings Ghana’s total disbursements under the arrangement to about US$2.3 billion. Ghana received its first disbursement from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under the $3 billion Extended Credit Facility on Friday, May 19, 2023.
Ghana’s growth in 2024 and the first quarter of 2025 was higher than expected, reflecting robust activity in the mining, agricultural, ICT, manufacturing, and construction sectors.
Ghana’s economy grew by 5.3% in the first quarter of 2025, higher than the 4.9% recorded during the same period in 2024.
According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), growth was driven by strong performance in the services sector and a rebound in the agricultural sector over the period.
However, the industry sector recorded a slow growth of 3.4% as a result of low activities and slow growth in the oil and gas sector.
Under the incumbent government, the country has observed a continuous decline in inflation from over 20% to 13.7% as of June 2025.
Ghana’s energy sector woes are anticipated to deepen as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) announces a sector shortfall by December 2025.
The global financial institution has predicted that Ghana is estimated to lose about US$2.2 billion this year. IMF made this revelation in its July 2025 Country Report on Ghana, released as part of the Fourth Review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement.
According to the Fund, this reflects the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG’s) large commercial and technical losses. It also attributed the anticipated loss to delayed tariff adjustments despite rising power generation costs and weak implementation of the Cash Waterfall Mechanism, which affects payments to Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
According to the IMF, the 2024 report highlighted that the Cash Waterfall Mechanism (CWM)—a framework to ensure the distribution of ECG’s revenues to stakeholders—was not implemented according to its guidelines, with significant deviations between ECG’s validated and declared collections (GHS 5.3 billion) and between CWM allocations and actual payments (GHS 3.9 billion).
Currently, the concern of most analysts is that despite the many taxes paid by petroleum consumers, the country’s energy sector debt will not record a signficant decline anytime soon. Amid this, the IMF has commended the government over progress in addressing the energy sector crisis.
These included the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC)’s 14.75% increase in electricity tariffs in April 2025, after having maintained tariffs unchanged in December 2024 and March 2025, and the Cabinet approval of opening power distribution to private sector participation (end-September 2025).
The publication of the 2023 Quarter 4 and 2024 ECG Revenue/Collection Accounts Validation Reports (end-January 2025) was completed with a delay because it covered a period longer than envisaged.
Even though there was some improvement, the money that some Independent Power Producers (IPPs) received from the fund was less than expected. This was because fuel payments had to be made, and a new IPP was added, which reduced the amount available for others.
However, the 2025 budget has allocated GH¢27.1 billion (around US$1.7 billion) to cover the shortfall, assuming that policy actions will be taken to help reduce it. Among the measures are the resumption of quarterly tariff adjustments and the accelerated implementation of the Energy Sector Recovery Programme measures.
This includes doing a multi-year tariff assessment (called MYTO) by the end of September 2025 to make sure electricity prices match the real cost of producing energy. It also involves improving how money is collected from customers and reducing the amount of unpaid bills that pile up over time.
Ghana’s energy sector crisis has been a long-standing challenge over the years, with Finance Minister Ato Forson describing it as a “ticking time bomb.” During a speech at the first session of the two-day National Economic Dialogue at the Accra International Conference Centre in March, Dr. Forson warned that the sector’s financial deficits could exceed nine billion dollars by 2026, despite government interventions.
“Currently, only 62 per cent of total energy purchases by ECG are collected, leaving out probably 62 per cent. 65 per cent of that amount is used to pay for supplies through the cash quarter for the mechanism,” Dr. Forson stated.
“Unfortunately, 35 per cent of ECG’s revenue is used to take care of ECG themselves over time that they don’t actually work,” he added.
Also, the government has introduced the GH¢1 per litre charge on petrol, diesel, and other petroleum products. It is to raise funds to clear energy sector debts, especially those owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs). The levy, labelled as the fuel levy, was initially announced and later withdrawn following pushback from drivers and mainly the minority, citing economic burden on the ordinary Ghanaian.
Consequently, on June 15, the government suspended the levy, following a directive from President John Dramani Mahama to delay rollout due to global oil price volatility and public concerns.
Following the demands of timelines to ensure transparency by the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) and the GPRTU, the government confirmed the levy would now take effect on July 16, 2025.
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) on Friday, July 11, embarked on a market surveillance exercise in the Bolgatanga Main Market to crack down on unregistered and unwholesome products to promote public health and safety.
The officials arrived on a market day, with some of the officials spreading across the market, combing through stalls and stores for unauthorised goods. Upon sighting them, some of the traders made attempts to hide the unregistered products but got busted by the officials.
Some of the products they seized include concoctions and powders with printed male and female sex organs sold as herbal medicines, many of which are mostly marketed as aphrodisiacs and body enhancement products.
They also include ointments, hand sanitizers, and other pharmaceutical products. The exercise lasted several hours, approximately 4 to 6 hours.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) after the exercise, Acting Regional Head of the FDA Mr Abel Ndego, reiterated the authority’s core mandate to ensure the region remained in regulatory compliance.
“We have been doing our underground work to ensure that we raid the region to get rid of all forms of unregistered, unwholesome products and anything that has the potential of causing public health threats,” he said.
Mr Ndego said the Authority noticed the infiltration of unregistered and unwholesome products into the Region despite several sensitization programmes for traders over the years on the dangers and penalties for such business.
“We had earlier done some work on it, but noticed that it appears we have a lot of recalcitrants in the system who still find ways of getting these unapproved products through unapproved routes into our Region. And as part of our mandate to ensure public health and safety, it is imperative that we undertake exercises like this to ensure that we maintain the safety ratings of our region and possibly beyond,” Mr Ndego said.
Mr Jiah Jiato Juah, the Regulatory Officer 1 (RO 1) of the FDA, who led the team of officials to conduct the exercise, told the GNA that the Authority, as part of investigations to ascertain how the products entered the region, visited Senkase, a community in Northern Togo, which shared a border with Pulmakom in the Pusiga District, where the products were smuggled into the region.
Following their checks, they found out that some Ghanaian traders crossed the border to Senkase on Thursdays and Fridays to buy the unregistered products. Due to stationed FDA officers at the border, the officer noted that these products are smuggled via motorbikes through Bawku and Garu.
“We tried to find out how they bring them. Unfortunately, they don’t pass through the border because we have an officer stationed at the Pulmakom border. Our checks revealed that they use unapproved routes with motorbikes through Bawku and Garu,” he noted.
Mr Juah added that their checks further revealed that a lot of the products were also found in Dakola, a community in Burkina Faso, and smuggled into the region through unapproved routes at Paga in the Kassena-Nankana West District.
The regulatory officer expressed concern about the health implications of these unregistered products, which have infiltrated the markets, and urged residents to stay away from them. He said that despite prior education on its risks, some members of the public have been convinced to buy them.
In reaction to the FDA’s raid, a resident, Madam Rose Akaribire Atindoo, expressed excitement, saying, “I am happy with what the officers are doing.” She bemoaned the indiscriminate sale and use of unregistered and unprescribed drugs, especially tramadol, among the youth.
“I am old, and it’s sad that the young ones who should take over from us, the older ones, abuse these products and eventually die prematurely from strange health conditions,” Madam Atindoo said.
Access to training programs in Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing, along with a Dental Hospital has been simplified with the inauguration of the Entrance University of Health Sciences (EUHS).
Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Her Excellency Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang inaugurated the school located at Spintex-Accra on Friday, July 11.
EUHS has been established to address the challenge of the low doctor-to-patient ratio and improve access to adequate healthcare professionals across the country.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Vice President lauded the initiative, noting its significant contribution to Ghana’s healthcare training capacity.
According to Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the establishment of EUHS will go a long way to train more experts to fill the gap in the country’s doctor- and dentist-to-population ratio.
H. E. Prof. Jane Naana acknowledged the need to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare delivery system by expanding training opportunities for health professionals.
“Ghana is not yet in the ideal position regarding the WHO-recommended doctor-and-dentist-to-population ratio. These new facilities will enhance clinical training, expand access to dental care, and strengthen healthcare delivery.”
She also charged the new entrants of the school to adopt a spirit of servitude and humility as they begin their journey in the respective “noble professions.”
“You are entering a noble profession at a time of great national need. Let your learning be marked by humility, compassion, and a constant desire to serve. I hope the relationship between students and surrounding communities will be mutually enriching,” she said.
Speaking at the event, Minister for Health Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh lauded the initiative as a strategic and commendable step toward solving one of Ghana’s most pressing health sector challenges.
Highlighting gaps in medical, nursing, and dental services across the country, the minister reemphasized the urgency of expanding Ghana’s health workforce.
He praised the visionary leadership of the university’s founder and chancellor, Nana Samuel Amo Tobbin, describing his efforts as a “bold and patriotic investment in Ghana’s future”.
“This initiative demonstrates foresight, commitment, and a strong sense of national responsibility,” the minister said.
In his address, Nana Samuel Amo Tobbin emphasized the university’s mission to raise a new generation of healthcare professionals with academic excellence and moral integrity.
The chancellor also stressed the importance of innovation and discipline in training the next wave of healthcare workers, pledging continued investment in infrastructure and academic quality.
“Many Ghanaian students face difficulties after studying abroad due to language and cultural barriers. I established this university to provide a world-class, locally grounded education that prepares our youth for global relevance.”
He absolved them from blame while citing the disparity in environment. “This challenge is not the fault of our young people. It stems from the differences in the environments and systems they’re exposed to,” he said.
Nana Tobbin also took the opportunity to make a direct appeal to the Vice President to consider some of their students for government scholarships and support them in terms of resource supply and management.
“We urge government support through national scholarship schemes. Strengthening institutions like Entrance University will help retain valuable resources within Ghana and empower local communities directly,” he mentioned.
Renowned Gospel musician Minister OJ has shared his opinion on how elections violence,associated killings and disruptions can be curbed in Ghana.
Joining panelists on UTV’s United Showbiz on Saturday, July 12, the Minister asserted that every problem is best solved by the people who cause it—making reference to Westerners who began the slave trade in Africa.
He noted that when they realized it was wrong, they put a stop to it.
In the same way, since politicians are the perpetrators of these acts of violence, he believes they are the best people to bring them to an end.
He insists that politicians tend to manipulate people for their selfish interests. Hence, the cases of violence meted out on people, especially on election days.
“The issue of political violence, politicians are the ones who started it, and they are the only ones who can end it easily.
“Politicians do not work with people; they use them. They will confuse, convince and use you. Look at the videos coming out. Why didn’t anyone attack the candidates? Only the party supporters were affected,” he stated.
His comments come in the wake of the recent violent incidents that erupted during the Ablekuma North parliamentary reruns on July 11, 2025, which saw journalists, political party executives and former politicians being assaulted.
He continued that, the attention Ghanaians give to these politicians who lead and instigate these violent acts should be cut off. Once they realise this, they’d put a stop to it.
“The moment the people stop paying attention to these politicians and stop following them around, they will stop,” he added.
He also called for a strong national response to crime and violence, stating, “A nation cannot be seen as timid when it comes to crime; it has to be brutal in handling it.”
He recommended the need to empower institutions like the NCCE to embark on education and awareness programs to psych the youth on the dangers of being used by politicians during elections.
What happened?
OJ’s comments come on the back of violence that erupted during the Ablekuma North election rerun on Juky 11.
At the Odorkor Methodist 1 polling station in the Ablekuma North constituency, some individuals engaged in a fisticuff with the police personnel. Also, a JoyNews journalist was slapped by an unknown individual.
A journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, was also slapped by a police officer.
The Ghana Police Service has interdicted one of its officers who was caught on camera slapping a journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, during the rerun election at Ablekuma North.
In line with internal disciplinary procedures, he has been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation.
The officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North.
The rerun election, held on July 11 across 19 polling stations, saw several alarming incidents.
At some polling stations, unidentified individuals, described as “thugs” assaulted political figures, including Hawa Koomson, former Awutu Senya East MP, and the NPP’s Deputy National Organiser, Chris Lloyd.
Following the reports, various stakeholders, including former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Minority Caucus in Parliament, and local journalists have called for thorough investigations, prosecution of perpetrators, and full protection for voters and officials.
Ghanaian musician Moliy has expressed her contentment of remaining independent of any record label.
She cited record labels’ restraints on her creativity, issues of trust, as well as hearsay about artists and the challenges that come with being signed to a label.
Her remarks was in response to a feature of discussion about her career as an independent artiste since her debut in 2020.
For the sake of creative freedom Moliy says she doesn’t want to be a part of any record label. She said
“Yeah. I’ve always been kind of hesitant to be a label artist because I’ve just heard so many stories.“I don’t just wanna be a name on a list. Music is very personal to me.
“So, I think if I did get locked in with a label, I hope it’s something that could be a real, long-lasting, organic relationship.
“The most freeing part is just getting to do what I want creatively without someone telling me what to do. I don’t like being told what to do” she shared during an interview on July 7 with Revolt TV.
She said ” I always feel like the people I work with, I want to trust them. I want it to feel organic”.
Though she has seen significant success with her songs hitting millions on boardsin UK and other streaming platforms, her independent journey hasn’t been without challenges.
She struggled with getting her music distributed effectively without the backing of a record label:she had to navigate distribution hurdles on her own.
“I realized at some point, I was actively seeking [distribution]. I hadn’t released music for a whole year in 2024, and me and my manager were trying to get a [distribution deal] so I could put out music.
The conversations were sounding positive, but nothing was actually happening. I remember thinking,(sic)I still wanna move. I don’t wanna be stagnant,’” she said.
It was at this point that she realised that “also, if you’re not pushing yourself, if you’re not putting your foot on the gas, no one is gonna do it for you. That’s what I love the most”
Meanwhile, her journey as an independent artiste has proven quite successful with the awards she’s won and success of her releases over the years.
In June 2022 she was named Spotify EQUAL Africa Ambassador.She also featured on MTV Base, 3Music TV, and Revolt TV and was later nominated for Ghana Music Awards and honored as BET Amplified Artist of the Month.
Veteran broadcaster Gifty Anti has marked over a decade and half groundbreaking television programme, The Standpoint, which she has now rebranded as TSP with Gifty Anti.
She celebrated the seventeen years show with a vibrant dinner event titled “Chat & Dine with Gifty Anti” on Friday, July 11 which marked the exact date of the show’s launch anniversary.
Stanpoint which started in July 11 2008 focuses on the women empowerment, addressing women and girls challenges across all walks of life.
Reflecting on the journey, Gifty Anti described it as one marked by dedication, resilience, and God’s grace—“17 years of scars and medals for the sake of womanhood and humanity.”
The event was hosted by Akosua Tiana brought together fans, media personalities, feminists among others.
Headling the evening as the center of the event, Gifty Anti recounted her journey through the years, the rebranding of the show in April last year and her commitment to the course- to give voice to women and children.
She also promoted her children’s book, tittled ‘The Princess and Jazz’, as part of her international tour.
“Cheers to many more years to come, God willing,” Gifty Anti shared in an emotional post, thanking her supporters and celebrating the show’s nearly two decades of impact.
See her full statement below:
And the Day is here!!
Friday, 11th July 2008 to Friday, 11th July 2025!
17 years of dedication, commitment, focus, strength, resilience and an audacity to create a platform (a TV programme):
1. Empower Women Holistically 2. Breaking the myth and daring to discuss hitherto taboo topics 3. Projecting and capturing the untold stories of Women, girls and children.
17 YEARS OF THE STANDPOINT, now TSP WITH GIFTY ANTI
17 YEARS OF GOD’S GRACE AND FAITHFULNESS
17 YEARS OF GOD STAYING IN THE STORY!
17 years of defying all odds, smiling at storms, holding my head high and still pushing the gender agenda!! Regardless!!
17 years of IMPACTING LIVES!!!
17 years of SCARS AND MEDALS for the sake of womanhood and humanity.
Cheers to the many years to come, God willing!!
I AM GIFTY ANTI, and for the past 17 years, I have independently produced and hosted THE STANDPOINT, now TSP with Gifty Anti.
Help me THANK GOD
#proudmoment
The evolution of The Standpoint
Stanpoint has eveolved over the years since its inception. It was first aired on GTV (Ghana Television), Ghana’s national broadcaster however funded by Gifty to avoid conflict of interest and maintain editorial independence.
It celebrated milestones like its 5th anniversary in 2013 by launching a foundation to support vulnerable girls.
Fast forward the show was rebranded in April 2024 as TSP with Gifty Anti.The new format focused on one-on-one interviews with women achievers, feminists, and advocates.
The rebranding came with a new studio set, logo, and broader digital presence on Joy Prime TV at 6:30 PM on Sundays and aired on GTV at 8pm on Thursdays.
It is also streamed on Youtube on YouTube Mondays at 8:00 PM and at on Facebook, Mondays at 6:00 PM
Ghana’s decade-and-a-half-old presidential private jet has been grounded again in France, Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah has revealed.
The aircraft, Falcon 900EX EASy with registration number 9G-EXE, has been in France since March 11 this year, undergoing a mandatory 24-month/1600 flight hour inspection at Dassault Falcon Service in Le Bourget due to multiple critical defects, including severe corrosion in its fuel tanks and engine components.
News about the jet surfaced after Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, questioned why the Vice President traveled by a rented jet instead of the state’s upon her return from the UK following her medical treatment. He questioned whether the presidential jet was unavailable, restricted, or reassigned at the time of her private return in May.
In response to this, Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah revealed that the jet has been grounded in France for repairs and due to the unavailability of a critical component—the turbofan, which had become severely rusted and required urgent replacement.
He said, “Ghana’s presidential jet, if I am to summarize, is an aircraft that is almost 15 years old that has massive multifocal corrosion, including very important parts of the machine.”
“These defects, we are trying to fix them, but they keep identifying new defects as they fix them. And one serious aspect of the identification is that, when they realized that the turbofan was heavily corroded and it required replacement, the company did not have a readily available spare,” he noted.
He also highlighted the challenges of accessing certain spare parts in the coming months or years, given the rapid advancement of technology and the fact that aircraft manufacturers rarely produce many components for older jets like Ghana’s Falcon.
“Normally, like all technologies over time, when you do not have many of that in circulation, companies do not produce many of such spares. But after a series of negotiations, a spare was received, and that has been installed successfully. And no one can predict going forward, if other spares also get dysfunctional, whether we are going to be able to have others for replacement,” the Defence Minister added.
The document, which states the detailed status report of the Falcon 900EX indicates that technicians discovered severe corrosion in the aircraft’s left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) feeder tanks, as well as the centre wing tanks. Corrosion and damage on Engine No. 2’s air intake plug receptacle and turbofan, which had to be completely replaced. Intermittent tripping of the starter-generator on Engine No. 2.
A series of deferred defects accumulated over previous operations that required manufacturer-level repair. The report also noted that the fuel tank contamination, if left untreated, can potentially cause engine failure during flight, posing a serious safety risk.
All these have pushed back the initial return of the presidential jet, which was initially bound for return on March 26, 2025; the aircraft’s delivery has now been postponed multiple times.
According to the Defence Minister, the delays the jet has faced at the workshop are a “worrying pattern” and indicate “an aging presidential jet.”
When the jet was flown for repairs in 2020–2021, it saw no delays. In 2022–2023, it was delayed 2.5 months. Fast forward to 2024, it saw another 2 months, and in 2025, it has been delayed for four months and counting, with the hope of its return ending in July.
Meanwhile, a security analyst, Emmanuel Kotin, did not mince words when he spoke about Ghana’s presidential jet on TV3’s The KeyPoints on Saturday, July 12.
He said, “Six years ago, I described it as a flying coffin. That is what it is. Let’s put politics aside; let’s treat this as a national emergency.”
Given Ghana’s status as a sovereign and independent country, Kotin believes, “Nobody would advise the president to use the jet. We need an aircraft befitting our status as a sovereign country.”
While some netizens have advised on the purchase of a new jet, some have also accused the government of wanting to exploit Ghanaians to purchase a new jet for their selfish gains and comfort.
The Defence Minister has highlighted the need to treat the state of the jet as a national issue and a security reason rather than a partisan one, citing that “…this is an air asset of the Air Force that carries not just the President, not just the Executive, but sometimes the Legislature, sometimes other arms of government, and sometimes other institutions.”
Liha Miller shared a video of her proposal on her TikTok handle which captured her flaunting her ring as she celebrated the milestone on Wednesday, July 3, 2025 a plush Lagos apartment.
The video’s caption read,“I said Yes 💍”.
Liha Miller officially finalised her divorce from Patapaa on Thursday, May 22, 2025, after a Ghanaian court granted their request for separation.
The couple got married on Saturday, January 2, 2021, in Agona Swedru, located in Ghana’s Central Region.
She wasn’t physically present due to her work commitments in Germany, but was represented by a lawyer and another individual during the proceedings.
The couple had been separated since 2022, following their 2021 wedding in Agona Swedru.
Why did they divorce?
The marriage began to face challenges shortly after the message. At a point,there were reports of Liha having an affair with comedian Atemuda.
Also, long-distance challenges, emotional strain, alleged infidelity, and lack of support. Liha described the marriage as a “nightmare.”
In an interview with BessahGh, she lamented bitterly about the poor and harsh treatment Patapaa subjected her to.
She said he used to abuse her physically to the point that she became a regular at the hospital.
She added that she had been treating infections for a long time, even staying home for seven months without any income because of her poor health.
During that period, her husband never asked how she was managing to pay her bills and was still trying to extort money from her.
Liverpool have formally announced that they would retire the number 20 shirt in honour of late forward Diogo Jota.
The Reds announced this on their X platform yestedrday Friday, July 11 after consulting with Jota’s wife Rute Cardoso and his family which means the Portugal international “will forever be Liverpool’s number 20”.
The decison comes after the tragic car crash that claimed the lives of the Portuguese star and his brother, Andre Silva who died near Zamora, Spain, on in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, at approximately 12:35 a.m. local time.
In a statement released by Liverpool statement, it noted that the number “will be retired in honour and memory of Diogo across all levels”, including the women’s team and throughout the academy.
They added: “The move is recognition of not only the immeasurable contribution our lad from Portugal made to the Reds’ on-pitch successes over the last five years, but also the profound personal impact he had on his team-mates, colleagues and supporters and the everlasting connections he built with them.”
Marking their 20th top-flight crown , the reiterated their commitment to retiring the jersey. And in a video shared on X at 20:20 BST on Friday they wrote,
“As a club, we were all acutely aware of the sentiment of our supporters – and we felt the same way,” said Fenway Sports Group’s chief executive of football, Michael Edwards.
“It was vitally important to us to involve Diogo’s wife, Rute, and his family in the decision and to ensure they were the first to know of our intention.
“I believe this is the first time in Liverpool’s history that such an honour has been bestowed upon an individual. Therefore, we can say this is a unique tribute to a uniquely wonderful person.
“By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal – and therefore never to be forgotten.”
20th top-flight crown means that a football team has won its national top division league title for the 20th time in its history.
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolves in September 19, 2020 in an alleged £41 million deal potentially rising to £45 million with add-ons and scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for the club.
He played for Liverpool for almost five years in a deal that was set to expire in 2027.
In 182 appearances,he notched 65 goals, and provided 26 times across all competitions. His final match was on May 25, 2025, and his last goal came on April 2, 2025, in a Merseyside derby win over Everton.
He also helped them win the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022, also winning the latter in 2024 – and the Premier League title last season.
Liverpool FC will retire the number 20 jersey across all levels of the club in honour and memory of Diogo Jota.
The funeral of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva,took place on July 5, at 10 a.m. local time in the Portuguese town of Gondomar.
Jota’s wife attends Anfield tributes
Jota’s wife Rute Cardoso, members of the brothers’ family and Liverpool’s squad all visited Anfield on Friday to pay their respects.
Cardoso had three children with the Portugal international and the pair had married only 11 days prior to his accident.
She was seen carrying flowers at Anfield as she viewed the wealth of tributes that have been left outside the stadium in honour of Jota and his brother.
US singer Chris Brown has pleaded not guilty to charges relating to his alleged bottle attack on a man on February 19, 2023, at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair, London.
He faces charges of hitting music producer Abraham Diaw multiple times with a tequila bottle and continuing to assault him after he fell unconscious.
The 36-year-old star is also accused of causing actual bodily harm to Mr Diaw with prosecutors describing the attack as one that happened “unprovoked”.
Another one of his charges includes possessing an offensive weapon, i.e., a tequila bottle.
The two charges were added last month to a more serious count of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), to which Mr Brown has already pleaded not guilty.
According to prosecutors, the alleged victim, Abraham Diaw, was standing at the bar of Soho’s Tape nightclub on 19 February 2023 when Mr Brown struck him several times with a bottle.
He made his first appearance for the trial on Friday, June 20, at Southwark Crown Court in London.
On July 11, the singer pleaded not guilty to the charges levelled against him.
His trial is slated for October 2026 and is expected to last five to seven days.
Fans numbering about twenty showed up in the public gallery to show support for their superstar.
On his way out of court, some shouted, with two saying, “we love you Chris”.
Upon his arrival at the court, he gave a brief wave before putting his hand to his chest.
His arrest
Chris Brown was arrested at the Lowry Hotel in Salford, Greater Manchester, on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at approximately 2:00 AM.
This was after his arrival a day before to prepare for the UK leg of his European tour.
He was held in custody for a week and was later released after paying a security fee of £5 million to the court.
A security fee is a financial guarantee to ensure a defendant returns to court. Mr Brown could be asked to forfeit the money if he breaches bail conditions, which were kept in place at Friday’s hearing.
The bail conditions mandate him to live at an address in the UK while awaiting trial and also to submit his trial to the police.
He can only have access to his passport when it is time for him to honour his Breezy Bowl XX world tour dates.
He has played a string of stadium and arena shows across the UK and Europe in recent weeks, ending in Paris last weekend. The North American leg of his tour is due to start later this month and end on 18 October.
Mr Brown is one of the biggest stars in US R&B, with two Grammy Awards, and 19 top 10 singles in the UK, including hits like “Turn Up The Music,” “Freaky Friday,” “With You,” and “Don’t Wake Me Up.”
His co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, a 39-year-old American who performs under the name HoodyBaby, also pleaded not guilty to causing actual bodily harm. He previously entered a not guilty plea to the charge of attempted grievous bodily harm.
Ghana’s Black Stars have once again fallen about six places in the latest FIFA rankings.
The team last year fell six places following their loss to Angola and a 1-1 draw with Niger during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in September during the international break.
In the recent ranking, Ghana sits 76th in the FIFA World Rankings released on Thursday, July 10.
This leaves the former African giant out of the top 10 national teams as they continue the push to rejoin the continent’s elite.
According to the latest ranking, Argentina still holds its spot as number one, followed by Spain, France, and then England, with Brazil taking the fifth spot.
In Africa, Morocco sits on top with its 12th position on the global level with 1,698.72 points. Senegal have also moved a spot up from its 19th position last year. Egypt dropped to 34 on the global scale but remains 3rd in Africa despite its slight dip from the 32nd position, which was caused by a quiet international window with no matches played since March.
Meanwhile, other teams gained points through qualifiers and friendlies, allowing them to climb higher in the rankings.
Algeria (36th), Nigeria (44th) and Ivory Coast (45th) follow closely, despite the latter’s recent AFCON success.
Tunisia (49th), Cameroon (51st), Mali (54th) and South Africa (57th) round out the African top ten, with Ghana sitting just outside the group.
Ghana’s recent matches were in May when they played in the Unity Cup in London, facing their long-standing rivals, Nigeria.
They lost 1–2 to the Super Eagles but ended with a resounding 4–0 win over Trinidad and Tobago in the third-place play-off.
Coach Otto Addo of Ghana blamed their defeat to Nigeria on a lack of chemistry among players who he claims hadn’t played together often.
Some fans also blamed our underperformance in the cup on the absence of key players like Kudus, Semenyo, and Partey due to club commitments and minor injuries.
The team now shifts focus to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers as they look to book their place in the tournament in 2026.
England midfielder Jordan Henderson is expected to join Brentford after his exit from Ajax on July 9.
The Dutch ended the Brits’ contract a year early. The 35-year-old will join the Bees on a two-year deal, with the financial details of the move yet to be disclosed.
But Henderson’s move to the Bees will help fill the void left by former Bees captain Christian Norgaard, who has left for Arsenal.
Several European and English clubs had eyes on Henderson, but Brentford were the frontrunners as they won the race to sign the former Liverpool skipper.
Playing in the Premier League will provide Henderson with the platform to stay in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad before next summer’s World Cup.
The deal formalities are expected to be confirmed in the coming days.
The move to Brentford will return Henderson to the Premier League after he left Liverpool in 2023.
During his 12 years at Anfield Henderson won the Premier League – the club’s first league title in 30 years – Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, Club World Cup, Uefa Super Cup and Community Shield.
Henderson left the Reds to join Al-Ettifaq on July 27, 2023, in a three-year deal worth £700,000 per week, totalling nearly £36.5 million annually.
His pay made him the highest-paid English footballer at the time, but this ‘luxury’ lasted less than a year when he terminated his contract abruptly after 6 months, citing professional and personal reasons.
Henderson signed with Ajax on a free transfer, allegedly in an attempt to revive his career.
Henderson was left out of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, as he had not played for England since 2023.
After Tuchel’s appointment as England head coach in January, Henderson has featured in both of the German’s squads, making three appearances.
Ukraine is set to receive more weapons from the US, President Donald Trump has ordered.
This is a U-turn by the president after he announced that the US is halting its shipment of weapons to Ukraine.
The decision stemmed from the US military using up to 56 Patriot missiles to fend off a major Iranian ballistic missile attack on the Al Udeid air base in Qatar—the largest single use of Patriot missiles ever.
This caused a huge deficit in the monthly production and storage capacity of the vital MSE Patriot missiles, prompting the Pentagon to assess a critical shortage.
Despite this, Trump announced a change in plans when Moscow launched a deadly Russian drone attack on Ukraine. They launched a barrage of missiles on Ukrainian cities, including the capital, Kyiv.
One attack on the city last Thursday has claimed a third life, according to local officials.
Consequently, Trump expressed his discontent with Putin’s attacks on Ukraine.
He told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a meeting on July 7, that he was “not happy” with Vladimir Putin and that Ukraine was “getting hit very hard.”
In light of this, Trump indicated the US would send primarily “defensive weapons” to help Ukraine’s war effort.
“We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to… They’re getting hit very hard now,” he said during a news conference with Netanyahu.
“I’m disappointed that President Putin has not stopped,” he added.
Among the armaments reported to have been placed on pause last week were Patriot air defence missiles and precision artillery shells. Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky had appealed for the shipments to continue, describing US Patriot systems as “real protectors of life”.
The Pentagon responded with a brief statement, saying that “at President Trump’s direction, the Department of Defense is sending additional defensive weapons to Ukraine to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace and ensure the killing stops”.
After a week of uncertainty, the US move will come as a relief to Ukraine, says the BBC’s Paul Adams in Kyiv.
Kyiv had warned that the move to pause some shipments would impede its ability to defend against escalating airstrikes and Russian advances on the front lines.
Zelensky said late last week that he had spoken to Trump “about opportunities in air defence and agreed that we will work together to strengthen protection of our skies.”
The war in Ukraine has been raging for more than three years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Ceasefire talks have also largely stalled after several attempts by Trump to broker a deal between the two parties.
Following a call with Putin last week, Trump said that “no progress” to end the conflict had been made, adding, “I don’t think he’s looking to stop.”
Hours after the call, Ukraine said Russia fired a record 539 drones and 11 missiles targeting Kyiv but also hitting the regions of Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Chernihiv.
Zelensky has called on international allies—particularly the US—to increase pressure on Moscow and impose greater sanctions.
Alejandro Garnacho has been permitted to join his Manchester United teammates in pre-season training at Carrington amid an uncertain future, sources have told ESPN.
The Argentina international had been training alone this summer with his future at Old Trafford still not clear. ESPN has already reported that Garnacho, 21, has firm interest from Premier League teams as well as from clubs in Italy and Germany.
United, under Ruben Amorim, finished 15th in the Premier League — their worst-ever finish — and lost 1-0 to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final to miss out on European competitions for the first time since the 2014-15 campaign.
Garnacho was left out of the starting XI for the final against Spurs, a decision that angered the winger, who hinted after the game he could seek a new challenge away from Old Trafford.
Garnacho scored 11 goals in 57 games last season, his best individual campaign since making his debut with United in 2022.
He was not included in United’s squad for the team’s final Premier League match of the season against Aston Villa, leading to speculation that he had fallen out with Amorim.
Following the loss to Spurs in the final, Amorim took a dig at Garnacho, reminding the winger of his shortcomings.
Amorim said: “Some players come in, like Mason Mount, against [Athletic] Bilbao [in the Europa League semifinal] and change the game. Who missed the big opportunity in the first half against Bilbao? Yeah [Garnacho].”
A court in Seoul has sentenced South Korean singer Moon Tae-il, affectionately referred to as Tael and a former member of the popular K-pop band NCT, to three years and six months in prison for rape.
This comes after the 31-year-old singer and two accomplices, named in South Korean reports only as Lee and Hong, admitted in June to taking turns assaulting their victim, a Chinese tourist.
Prosecution initially requested a 7-year jail term; however, a district judge in Seoul handed them just half the seven-year sentence, describing the offence as “extremely grave”.
The court told the three men they must go through 40 hours of a special program meant to help people who have committed sexual violence understand their actions and change their behaviour.
According to the court, the culprits met their victim at a bar in the Itaewon district in Seoul.
She became “heavily intoxicated” after drinking with them, the court heard. They then got into a taxi to Lee’s house, where the assault happened.
The South Korean law describes this specific kind of rape as “aggravated” because it was a group attack, and a “quasi rape”, as the victim was unconscious.
Taeil officially joined NCT in April 2016, debuting as part of the group’s first sub-unit, NCT U, with the single Without You.
In June 2024, when the case began, he officially exited NCT in August 2024, although the exact details of the crime were not publicly known at the time, after which SM Entertainment terminated his contract in October 2024.
Before he departed from NCT, he was known for his powerful vocals and was a key member of both NCT U and NCT 127
Introduced as a K-pop band in January 2016, NCT is known for its experimental music spanning various genres and has gained international attention with some releases charting on Billboard lists.
Ghanaian rapper Medikal has responded to legal threats and a lawsuit demand from singer and hype man DJ Azonto, who accused him of copyright infringement for using the term “Alla” in his latest single, Shoulder.
In a response posted on his social media handle on X, the “Omo Ada” hitmaker on July 9, wrote “Killa ntua!”
This comes after the hype released an official statement, with a long list of dramatic and unrealistic demands as compensation for using the catchphrase without permission.
According to a statement released by Sammy Anim, Public Relations Officer of the Rolls Royce Family, DJ Azonto’s management team, the term “Alla” forms a significant part of Azonto’s identity, particularly through the popular slogan “Alla Woyo”, which is closely tied to his performances and public image.
He warned that Medikal’s failure to meet these demands risks him with a lawsuit.
“The term ‘Alla’, which is part of DJ Azonto’s signature slogan ‘Alla Woyo’, is an established element of his artistic identity. It is strongly linked to his image, live performances, and fan engagement,” the statement read.
Following Medikal’s response, several X users ridiculed DJ Azonto, saying he wasn’t serious about making such demands, while others humourously asked Medikal if he had such an amount of money to meet Medikal’s demands.
In a related development, Alabaster Box on April 15 filed a lawsuit against Medikal. Before that, the group had served a copyright infringement notice on April 8, demanding the removal of Medikal’s song Welcome to Africa from all platforms and a full account of its earnings.
However, they proceeded to court when Medikal refused to respond. The court approved substituted service on June 12, 2025, allowing legal documents to be sent via social media and WhatsApp.
The court granted permission to serve Ghanaian rapper Samuel Adu Frimpong, known as Medikal, via court documents through the court’s notice board, social media, and his manager.
The group demanded GHC15 million in damages, claiming Medikal copied the first ten seconds of their 2002 hit Akwaaba in his new track Welcome to Africa.
They are asking the court to stop the use of the song, order compensation, and require Medikal to share all earnings made from the track.
The Ga Traditional Council has issued a stern warning to a Nigerian, Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, who is parading himself as King of the Igbos in Ghana.
The Council said it has not conferred any kingship title on any individual, mandating him as King of Igbos in the Ga State.
The Council, in a five-item statement dated July 9, dissociated itself from all activities related to the purported Igbo King Dr Chukwudi Jude following a crunch meeting held by the council and headed by the president, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II—Ga Mantse.
“The Ga Traditional Council has observed with dismay recent happenings in the Ga State surrounding an Igbo King by name Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, who has accorded himself King of The Ga Traditional Council dissociates itself from all activities of the said Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu. The Council has never recognised anybody or person as the King of Igbos within the Ga State,” a part of the statement read.
🚨🇳🇬🇬🇭UPDATE: The Ga Traditional Council, in a press release, has ordered Eze Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu to desist from parading himself as the 'King' of Igbos in Ghana (Ga State). Additionally, all cultural festivals presided over by Eze Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu under the guise of… pic.twitter.com/ffsCSUZ0Df
The recognition and acceptance of an individual as the chief in the Ga State is only deemed legitimate when that person’s name is first listed in the National Register of Chiefs.
According to the Council, the Ga Traditional Council was set up by a law, not just by custom or tradition, which means its powers and duties are codified in the constitution of Ghana.
“Recognition of persons and their induction at the Ga Traditional Council has always been conditional upon entry of one’s name in the National Register of Chiefs. The Ga Traditional Council is a creation of statute.”
“Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu should henceforth cease (sic) from holding himself out as a King of the Igbos in the Ga State by way of performing any traditional activity,” parts of the statement read.
The Council, therefore, warned individuals who have been conferred titles by Dr Chukwudi from parading themselves in that regard within the Ga State.
“All assigned Paramount and Divisional Chiefs installed by Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu should also henceforth desist (sic) from holding themselves out as such within the Ga State. All Traditional and Cultural festivities under the guise of importing Igbo culture, presided over by Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu in his capacity as King of the Igbos in the Ga State, should cease forthwith,” it added.
The Ga governing body concluded with an assurance to the general public of their commitment to peace and acceptance of “all tribes, communities, and people of other nations into the Ga State on condition that they respect the Ga Traditions and customs.”
The Council noted that it would go after any individual who tries to take advantage of their tolerance by disregarding their rules and respect for peace.
“Any person(s) who disrespects these directives with the intent to disrupt the peace of the Ga State shall be dealt with by law. Our goodwill and respect for other tribes and people of other nations should not be taken for granted,” the statement noted.
The Ga Council’s statement comes amid Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu’s announcement of his intention to build a 50-acre Igbo village in Old Ningo on July 7, during an interview that went viral, drawing several reactions both from abroad and locally.
He described the project featuring a palace, market, schools, a guest house, and streets to be named after Igbo icons like Nnamdi Azikiwe as a cultural hub for Igbos in Ghana and abroad.
In reaction to Dr. Chukwudi’s comments, Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, urged the public to disregard the claims, stating that “no ‘king’ has any kingdom or land in the Ningo-Prampram Constituency. Disregard any such claims. The ancient Great Ningo kingdom is welcoming to all who visit us, but none is welcome to lay claim to a kingdom here. Rest assured, we are a hospitable people, but our hospitality cannot be taken for granted. Let calm prevail.”
Meanwhile, Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, according to reports, was not a king in Nigeria before relocating to Ghana in 1995 as a businessman, but he was crowned as Eze Ndi Igbo Ghana in 2012 by recognized Nigerian kingmakers who traveled to Ghana for the ceremony.
He does not hold any official chieftaincy status in Nigeria’s national register of chiefs, and neither is he recognised as a monarch by the Nigerian government.
Since his naming as Eze, he has established a royal council with sub-chiefs and elders to represent Igbo interests across various regions in Ghana and also hosts annual Igbo Day and New Yam Festivals, celebrating Igbo heritage and fostering unity among Nigerians in Ghana.
Tottenham Hotspur has officially announced the signing of Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus.
In a social media post on X on Thursday, July 10, Spurs shared his welcome video with a caption that read, “He only wanted Spurs. Welcome to North London, Mohammed Kudus.”
The 24-year-old joins the North London side for a 55 million pound fee for his services in a six-year deal that was signed at the Tottenham Stadium.
Ghanaian forward Mohammed Kudus has been one of the most talked-about players in this transfer window.
The 24-year-old was being sought after by both European and Saudi clubs; however, it is reported that Kudus wants to play for a European club.
Among the prominent English clubs, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur appeared to be the front-runners in the race for the forward
However, it was reported that Kudus was more interested in the Spurs than the Blues.
The Ghana international winger was expected to stay with West Ham until 2028 after joining them in August 2023 from Ajax for a reported fee of €41.5 million, with an option to extend the deal by an additional year.
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.
His standout performances in his debut season made him a prime target for several top clubs.
Tottenham’s interest in bolstering their attack does not end with Kudus, as the club continues to monitor Brentford forward Yoane Wissa.
Kudus’ move to Spurs adds to the growing presence of Ghanaian talent on the global stage and is expected to further elevate his profile ahead of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday, July 10, welcomed five new envoys accredited to Ghana.
This was after they formally presented their Letters of Credence, which marks the official beginning of their diplomatic missions in the country.
After receiving their letters, the president welcomed them, assuring them of Ghana’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations and maintaining friendly relations, fostering regional cooperation, and expanding economic and cultural exchanges with all countries worldwide.
He emphasised the need to nurture mutually beneficial partnerships, particularly in the areas of trade, economic development, technical and security cooperation, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
“Ghana remains open, friendly, and committed to productive partnerships. As you begin your missions, know that you have our full support in advancing mutual interests across trade, health, education, tourism, and democratic governance. Together, we can achieve impactful outcomes that benefit our people,” he said.
The new envoys who presented their credentials are Her Excellency Mrs. Maria Da Conceicao De Souse Pilar, Ambassador of the Republic of Portugal; His Excellency Conrad Vincent Mederic, High Commissioner of the Republic of Seychelles; His Excellency Citizen Jesús Albert Garcia, Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela; His Excellency Gonfouli Souariba, Ambassador of the Republic of Chad; and His Excellency Maximin Mangoualamangoye, High Commissioner of the Republic of Gabon.
In his welcome message to Mr. Bul Quoc Hung of Vietnam, President Mahama highlighted his anticipation for their contribution as his government implements the flagship 24-hour economy policy.
“Ghana has been following Vietnam’s rapid economic transformation. We believe there’s a lot of room for cooperation, especially as we implement our 24-Hour Economy Policy and Reset Agenda.”
Also, to Mr. Lincoln G. Downer, from Jamaica, President Mahama called for the establishment of missions in both countries due to their “historic ties,” which unite them by blood.
“Despite our historic ties, we still lack missions in each other’s capitals. We must change that. Our countries are joined by blood and history. Let’s revive the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation and explore opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.”
To the envoy from Greece, Mr. Athanasios B. Kotsionis, President Mahama told him that “Ghana-Greece relations are long-standing, though economic ties are modest. We can build on the $31 million in imports and $17 million in exports. The Tsakos Foundation and the Greek School in Tema are great examples of cultural collaboration.”
President Mahama, in his address, also took the opportunity to appeal to Burundi for their support when it’s time to choose the AU Chair. He said to Mr. Antit Mohsen (Tunisia) & Mr. Edouard Nduwimana from Burundi, “Ghana is currently the Second Vice-Chair of the African Union. When the AU Chair becomes vacant, we’ll seek your support for Ghana’s bid, as it’s West Africa’s turn.”
This marks the third group of envoys President Mahama has received so far since he assumed office in January. On Tuesday, June 10, he received Letters of Credence from four newly appointed ambassadors-designate and one high commissioner-designate at a ceremony held at the Jubilee House in Accra.
The ceremony was witnessed by senior officials from the Office of the President and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The envoys included H.E. Mr. Bui Quoc Hung of the Republic of Vietnam, H.E. Mr. Athanasios V. Kotsionis of the Hellenic Republic of Greece, H.E. Mr. Lincoln George Downer of Jamaica, H.E. Mr. Antit Mohsen of the Republic of Tunisia, and H.E. Mr. Edouard Nduwimana of the Republic of Burundi.
Also, President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday, March 12, formally received five newly appointed envoys representing Italy, Cuba, Liberia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Iran, as they presented their letters of credence at the Presidency in Accra.
The diplomats, who also submitted letters recalling their predecessors, included Madam Laura Ranalli of Italy, Mr. Julio Enrique Pujol Torres of Cuba, Mrs. Musu Jatu Ruhle of Liberia, Dr. Abdulla Muraid Sulaiman Mohammed Al Mandoos of the UAE, and Mr. Ali Ghomshi of Iran.
Renowned sports journalist, Dan Kwaku Yeboah has accused Premier League side Arsenal of playing a role in the rape charges brought against Ghanaian midfielder, Thomas Partey.
According to him, the fact that the charges became public immediately after Partey’s contract renewal talks with the Gunners failed suggests that club officials may have influenced the timing of the revelation.
The Peace FM journalist also noted that the alleged incidents occurred in 2022 while Partey was still playing for Arsenal, yet the charges were only made public in 2025 after he left the club which he sees as another indication of the club’s involvement.
Speaking on Radio XYZ, Kwaku Yeboah stated that the charges could negatively impact Partey’s football career as clubs may hesitate to sign him until the case is resolved.
“With the way the charges surfaced, I believe the person who influenced Arsenal’s decision not to extend Partey’s contract is behind this. At this point, it will reduce his market value and discourage interested clubs.
“They have decided to destroy his career. How could something that happened in 2022 be kept under wraps until he was out of the club? This is a calculated attempt,” he said.
He further criticised those urging men to be cautious around women, suggesting such advice can be hypocritical, given the temptations men face.
“People are advising him and other men to be careful, but that may be hypocritical. Men are moved by sight, so if a woman appears naked, it’s likely the man will be aroused,” he added.
His comments come after Partey was charged on July 5, 2025 with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the alleged offences occurred between 2021 and 2022 and involve three women: two counts of rape relate to one woman, three counts of rape to a second woman, and one count of sexual assault to a third woman.
Former Vice President and the 2024 flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is excited to have Ghanaian forward Mohammed Kudus join the club he supports, Tottenham Hotspur.
Taking to his social media yesterday, July 9, Dr Bawumia posted,
“I am excited to see our Ghanaian starboy make this move to my @SpursOfficial. All the best in your medical @KudusMohammedGH.”
I am excited to see our Ghanaian starboy make this move to my @SpursOfficial. All the best in your medical @KudusMohammedGH
Dr Bawumia’s excitement stems from the 24-year-old’s imminent move to the European side after his scheduled medicals today, Thursday, July 10.
After the medicals, Kudus is anticipated to sign a six-year contract worth approximately £55 million with the North London club.
The transfer, if finalised, will be historic, marking the first direct move between the two London rivals since Scott Parker’s switch from West Ham to Spurs in 2011.
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 European and Saudi clubs; however, it is reported that Kudus wants to play for a European club.
Among the prominent English clubs, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur appeared to be the front-runners in the race for the forward
However, it was reported that Kudus was more interested in the Spurs than the Blues.
The Ghana international winger was expected to stay with West Ham until 2028, with an option to extend the deal by an additional year.
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.
His standout performances in his debut season made him a prime target for several top clubs.
Tottenham’s interest in bolstering their attack does not end with Kudus, as the club continues to monitor Brentford forward Yoane Wissa.
Kudus’ move to Spurs adds to the growing presence of Ghanaian talent on the global stage and is expected to further elevate his profile ahead of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has rebuffed media reports suggesting that Ghana will experience a nationwide power outage on Sunday, July 13.
Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Wednesday, July 9, Richmond Rockson, Spokesperson and Head of Communication at the Ministry, clarified the possible intermittent supply in the power outage will not affect the entire country.
“I have seen some misreporting from some media houses that there will be a nationwide blackout. That is not what the Minister said. That is inaccurate; that is a falsehood.”
“He [Energy Minister] said that because of that, there is a possibility that we may have interruptions in power supply, and the Ministry has put in place measures to ensure that we don’t have any nationwide dumsor or any dumsor as people are speculating,” Rockson stated.
Ghanaians are likely to experience a temporary power disruption on Sunday, July 13, to allow the gas supplier, ENI, to undergo a rehabilitation session.
Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdullai Jinapor, made the announcement while speaking at a groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the 161kV Anwomaso to Kumasi transmission line on Tuesday, July 8.
The exercise is expected to increase gas production to 270 mm per day, which is of importance to the energy sector and the country as a whole.
“This Sunday, ENI will turn off their valves temporarily to increase gas production to about 270 MM Scarf. It means that we are stabilizing the energy sector. Because the plant will be turned off for a short period within the day for maintenance works, we are likely to experience some interruption of power. It is for a good purpose,” Mr Jinapor said.
The power outage is expected to last for about six hours. According to the sector minister, advice from experts has prevented the running of the plants to be worked on on liquid fuel to ensure the provision of power supply for a brief period.
“It involves changing nozzles, it involves a lot of work and so if we are going off for about for to six hours you don’t risk it transitioning to liquid fuel only to come back to gas,” he added.
Members of the general public and businesses are expected to prepare ahead to avert a significant disruption in their day-to-day activities.
The 161kV Anwomaso to Kumasi transmission line co-funded by the European Union and the government of France to assist in stabilizing the low voltage in Kumasi and Dukwaw mining areas will be constructed by the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCO).
The €8.7 million project is expected to be completed within 12 months. This will facilitate Ghana’s export of power to Burkina Faso.
The reconstruction of the transmission line will enable the provision of double-circuit, twin-bundled transmission line of rated capacity to improve power transfer between the Ahodwo (K1BSP) and the Anwomaso (K2BSP) substations.
On his part, EU Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Irchard Razaly, noted that the project serves as its commitment to providing greener and more efficient energy for Ghanaians.
Energy Minister Abdulai Jinapor is optimistic about Kumasi boasting of more than 1,000 megawatts of electricity generation capacity due to the presence of Ameri, Cenit Energy Limited, AKSA Energy and Pipeline.
Unknown assailants have shot dead a Chinese national and his Ghanaian driver at an illegal mining (galamsey) site at Subri-Nkwanta in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region.
The fatal shooting occurred on Monday, July 7, after the two were ambushed by unknown gunmen while transporting gold concentrate commonly referred to as “black” from the site.
The attackers, believed to be illegal miners, reportedly opened fire without warning and fled into the nearby forest with the gold.
Police are yet to identify the deceased. The command has been to the scene, and their bodies have since been conveyed to the morgue pending autopsy.
Currently, the police say they are treating it as a robbery until further investigations.
Some residents, however, suspect it may be linked to rising tensions among rival illegal mining operators and disputes over land ownership.
The death of the two has left members of the community in fear.
Residents of Subri-Nkwanta say this is not the first time violence has erupted at galamsey sites in the area.
“We keep hearing gunshots now and then. It’s becoming too dangerous to even stay here,” one resident lamented.
Consequently, leaders of the community have called on the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) and regional authorities to take immediate steps to restore law and order and increase security presence in the area.
They have also charged the Ghana Police Service to expedite investigations into the incident.
The incident adds to growing concerns over the deadly consequences of unregulated mining activities in the region.
Residents say this isn’t the first time violence has erupted in the area, with frequent gunfire and clashes between rival mining groups reported over the years.
Chief Executive Officer of the National Ambulance Service. Dr Nuhu Zakaria has been dismissed by President John Mahama.
No official statement or briefing has been made on Mr Zakaria’s termination yet.
However, according to reports, his alleged sacking stems from his purported misuse of the unearned academic title, ‘Professor’.
In June 21, this year, Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) in a statement ordered the embattled CEO to desist from using the title ‘Professor’, claiming he had not been conferred with the title by any accredited institution locally nor internationally.
According to the statement, “You are therefore directed to desist from using the title ‘Professor’ with immediate effect, as it has not been conferred on you by a legally mandated body,” the GTEC letter stated.
GTEC noted that institutions that have a presidential charter are legally mandated to confer such titles, and any self-designation without proper conferment is tantamount to academic dishonesty and misrepresentation.
His termination has sparked reactions about accountability and professional standards in public office.
Dr. Nuhu Zakaria was appointed CEO of the National Ambulance Service under the Akufo-Addo administration in 2017 and has served for the past seven to almost 8 years.
Dr Nuhuchaled several successes during his tenure as CEO.The National Ambulance Service (NAS) saw significant growth and transformation, making emergency healthcare more accessible across Ghana.
Under his leadership, ambulance stations increased from just 7 to nearly 300, ensuring significant nationwide expansion.
He also grew staff strength from under 70 to over 3,400 personnel, including trained Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).
He ensured the establishment of the only Paramedic Training School in West Africa, boosting local capacity for emergency medical care.
China has rebuffed Germany’s allegations that a Chinese warship fired laser at its military plane.
Germany says China attempted to disrupt one of its aircraft earlier this month as it was taking part in European Union-led operations aimed at protecting ships in the Red Sea from missiles launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebel group.
Consequently, Germany’s foreign ministry has summoned the Chinese ambassador, labelling the alleged act as “entirely unacceptable”. Also, the European Union (EU) has summoned China’s envoy over the allegations.
In response to Germany’s claims, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Wednesday, July 9, during a press briefing, dismissed the claim as “completely inconsistent with the facts known by the Chinese side”.
According to her, China’s navy had been carrying out “escort operations” in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia.
She suggested that a “pragmatic attitude” be adopted by both countries to enhance communication and avoid misunderstandings or miscalculations.
Germany’s side of the story
On Tuesday, July 8, Germany reported that a reconnaissance plane was targeted as it flew over the Red Sea; a surveillance exercise they have been a part of since early 2024 to protect ships from regular attacks launched from Yemen.
The laser was fired from a Chinese warship, which had been spotted several times and had made no communication with the passing aircraft, Germany said.
The plane was forced to abandon its mission and return to a military base in the East African nation of Djibouti as a precaution, according to the foreign ministry.
This annoyed Berlin so much that it accused China of “endangering German personnel and disrupting the operation”.
EU foreign policy spokesperson Anouar El Anouni said the incident was “dangerous and unacceptable”.
“This act put personnel at risk and compromised the aircraft’s mission,” he added.
Lasers can be used to blind pilots, and a new class of powerful lasers capable of disabling targets in the air are under development by militaries around the world.
China established a permanent military presence in the region in 2017 when it opened a base in Djibouti, which Beijing says is used for anti-piracy and freedom of maritime navigation operations.
Western governments have expressed concerns about China’s ambitions in the region since opening the base in Djibouti, where the US, Japan, France and others also have military installations.
The White House has announced that US President Donald Trump will attend Sunday’s FIFA Club World Cup final in New Jersey.
Trump, during a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, ahead of the match scheduled for at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, told reporters, “I’ll be going to the game.”
News of his attending the World Cup Finals came after FIFA announced it had opened an office in New York’s Trump Tower.
Following the tournament’s expansion from just seven clubs to thirty-two, the United States is hosting the first edition, which includes African clubs.
They include Al Ahly (Egypt), Wydad Casablanca (Morocco), and Esperance (Tunisia), alongside Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa).
The USA will also be a co-host for next year’s World Cup, along with Canada and Mexico.
Chelsea will face either Paris St-Germain (PSG) or Real Madrid in the Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, which will also host next year’s World Cup final.
Trump, who attended the Super Bowl in February, is chair of a task force he established to oversee preparations for each tournament.
“We have received such a big support from the government and from the president with the White House taskforce for the Fifa Club World Cup and for the Fifa World Cup next year,” said Fifa president Gianni Infantino.
“Fifa is a global organisation and to be global you have to be local, you have to be everywhere, so we have to be in New York.”
FIFA president Infantino has, however, promised fans they will be welcomed to the US, despite the government’s immigration crackdown and a travel ban on 12 countries.
However, Trump is reportedly considering expanding travel restrictions to as many as 36 additional countries.
In a related development, FIFA set a $9.55 million participation fee for each of the four African clubs competing in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup (CWC), marking a significant financial boost for the continent’s representatives.
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).
Kylian Mbappé has dropped the legal charges of harassment against his former club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
This is as stated by a person with knowledge of the situation and reported by the Associated Press.
The suit stems from an alleged 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.
While two judges had been assigned to investigate the situation, a person close to the France captain said on Tuesday that Mbappé has decided to drop the case due to his improved relationship with PSG president Nasser Al Khelaïfi over the past few weeks.
The person was not authorised to speak publicly in line with the practice of Mbappé’s entourage.
But according to his entourage, relations between Mbappé and PSG president Nasser Al Khelaïfi have been improving for several weeks. Mbappé joined Real Madrid last summer on a free transfer after scoring a club record.
256 goals in seven years at PSG. He will face his former club in Wednesday’s Club World Cup semifinal.
Mbappé’s relationship with PSG ended amid deep tensions, and some fans booed him in his last home game at Parc des Princes.
PSG felt let down by Mbappé after offering him the most lucrative contract in club history when he signed a new contract in 2022.
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 the end of the 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.”
President John Mahama yesterday swore in a nine-member committee tasked to supervise the smooth transition of operations and management of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) to the University of Ghana (UG).
This is aimed at enhancing the synergy between clinical service delivery, teaching, and research.
The inauguration of the committee also marks the fulfilment of a campaign promise by President Mahama, following his promise to the UG Vice Chancellor during a campaign visit in 2024.
The committee, composed of members from academia and government, includes the former Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Professor Aaron Lawson, University of Ghana. Renowned Neurosurgeon at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Professor Mutawakilu Iddrisu.
And government officials on the board also include the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Education.
Speaking at the inauguration on Tuesday, July 8, President Mahama reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that the University of Ghana becomes not just a theoretical academic space but also a hub for medical excellence in the subregion.
He went on to emphasise his government’s bid to make changes that will improve healthcare and medical education in Ghana for many years to come.
“We inaugurate a committee that will lead us to honour a legacy, celebrate a dream and set a bold and forward-looking institutional realignment that will shape healthcare delivery and medical education in Ghana for generations to come.”
The committee have three months to carry out their work.
“You are laying the foundation for a legacy of healthcare and medical education excellence. You are building a bridge between the past and the future.”
President Mahama had earlier hinted at the transfer in January 2025, describing it as essential to achieving the hospital’s original purpose of becoming a world-class teaching, research, and referral hospital with top-tier health professionals.
He also emphasized its role in providing cutting-edge medical research and positioning it as a centre for medical excellence in West Africa.
The UGMC was officially established in April 2013, when construction began under the administration of the late President John Evans Atta Mills, who, according to President Mahama, intended for it to be managed by a subsidiary of the university.
Given the facility’s capacity, the president lamented that the facility, currently under the Ghana Health Service, is operating at only 40% of its capacity.
“Currently, only 40% of the hospital is operational. We must scale up to 100% so that our people do not continue travelling to South Africa, India, and other countries for medical care we can provide here.”
Meanwhile, the commercial contract for the project was signed by Ghana’s Ministry of Health in 2012. Construction of Phase I of the hospital started in April 2013. And in 2017, phase I was inaugurated by President John Mahama.
Just a year after the inauguration UGMC began partial operations.
The Homicide Unit of the Ghana Police Service has arrested six suspects in connection with the murder of 28-year-old Nelson Anyana.
Nelson was reported missing by the police after his mother reported his disappearance on December 14 last year.
According to his mother, Comfort Hatse, a trader from Donkorkrom, her son informed her that he was going to meet with one of the suspects on December 4 Augustina Fiawoyife, and never returned.
This prompted an investigation by the Homicide Unit of the Ghana Police Service following suspicion of ritual murder.
The Unit undertook an operation and uncovered and exhumed multiple human remains buried in a shrine at Gblorkope in the Central Tongu District, including that of Nelson, who had gone missing.
The police discovered multiple human bones, some buried beneath idols in the shrine.
According to the police, three additional skeletal remains were discovered buried under different idols at the same location.
Dismembered human remains believed to belong to other victims were also found buried in nearby bushes, which confirmed claims that the site may have been used for serial ritual killings.
The suspects, all residents of Mafi Adidome, are Augustina Fiawoyife, unemployed; Wisdom Hedidor, an herbalist; and Courage Bedzo, a kente weaver.
The others are Gblor Noah, also known as Ekpedzi, a fetish priest aged 37; Gblor John, a 38-year-old security guard; and Gblor Johannes, a 27-year-old lotto writer. The last three, who are siblings, are reported to be operators of the Gblorkope shrine.
How Nelson died
Augustina (first suspect) was reportedly in a relationship with the second suspect, Wisdom Hedidor, who had grown jealous over her ongoing relationship with the deceased. He allegedly hatched a plan to kill him, which was executed accordingly with the help of Augustina.
Fats forward, the fourth suspect, Gblor Noah, was allegedly in search of a human body to buy for rituals.
The third suspect, Courage Bedzo, who found out about this, informed the jealous Hedidor, who agreed to carry out the murder.
Consequently, on December 12, 2024, Augustina lured the deceased to a secluded area near DC Bungalow, a suburb of Adidome.
While they got invested in a conversation, Hedidor and Bedzo ambushed and strangled him to death, with Augustina allegedly watching them kill her boyfriend without intervening.
The third suspect subsequently contacted the fetish priest, who arrived at the scene with the sixth suspect, Gblor Johannes. He paid GH¢7,000 and transported it to the shrine at Gblorkope, where it was used in ritual ceremonies before being buried under idols.
Following the recovery of Nelson Anyana’s remains and those of other unidentified individuals, all six suspects were arraigned before a District Court in Ho with abetment of crime to wit murder and conspiracy to commit crime to wit murder charges.
Police investigators say further forensic analysis is underway based on the new discoveries to determine the identities of the additional victims and file appropriate charges against the suspects.
The discovery has sparked outrage and fear among residents of the Central Tongu District, with many calling for swift justice and a broader investigation into possible ritualistic networks in the region.
The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the case thoroughly and ensuring all perpetrators face the full rigours of the law.
Minister for Roads and Highways Kwame Governs Agbodza has revealed that the government owes road contractors GH¢21 billion
Government will settle GH¢4 billion out of the large debt owed to road contractors, the Roads Minister revealed on Tuesday, July 8, during a press conference where he provided updates on the many road projects in the country.
“On record, we are intending to pay some GH¢4 billion towards retiring part of the 21 billion from this month. I have no doubt that will be on record to be one of the biggest payments at a particular time to make sure that we are serious about clearing the debt, and then also making provision to start the new work we are talking about,” Kwame Governs Agbodza said.
President John Dramani Mahama, during a meeting with members of the Council of State at the Presidency on Monday, July 7, announced the government’s decision 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.
President Mahama emphasised 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 mobilise 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 followed 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, 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 emphasised the importance of prioritising 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.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reported a significant milestone in its response to fire cases over the past six months.
During an interview on Tuesday, July 8, the Head of Public Relations at the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Desmond Ackah, revealed that due to their improved and swift response to fire cases, they have been able to save over GHC203 million worth of property in the last two quarters of 2025.
“From January to June this year, we were able to salvage approximately GHS 203,389,679 worth of property, thanks to our improved response system,” Mr Ackah said.
According to him, the GNFS’ response time has also improved, with a maximum of 15 minutes and a minimum of 5 minutes.
Despite their efforts, properties valued at GHS 188,423,598 were lost to fire incidents.
This, he believes, indicates the effectiveness of their efforts, calling for commendation and celebration by the public, particularly media houses and other stakeholders.
“This demonstrates the effectiveness of our efforts and deserves both celebration and commendation. We call on media outlets and all stakeholders to recognise and appreciate the strides we’ve made. Without our swift intervention, property losses could have exceeded GHS 300 million”.
Also, GNFS 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.
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.
GNFS blamed the increase in fire cases on the public’s defiance of 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.
Meanwhile, GNFS has reported a significant improvement in the fight against prank calls.
The Service recorded a dramatic 34.77% reduction in prank calls, having recorded about 364,020 prank calls in the first half of 2024, as against 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 paying off. Reducing prank calls means our emergency lines are more accessible to people in real need,” a GNFS spokesperson noted.
The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams, has gifted Asante Kotoko a cash prize of GH¢10,000 following their win over Accra Hearts of Oak in the just ended 2025 President’s Cup.
The annual match played every year in honour of the sitting president saw Kotoko clinch the trophy with a 2–1 over long standing rivals at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, July 6.
Asante Kotoko dethroned ASEC Mimosas of Côte d’Ivoire, who were the 2024 President’s Cup champions.
To commemorate their win, Minister Adams went to the Kotoko squad’s hotel to personally present a personal cash reward and commend their performance.
While addressing the squad he said,
“I have also given you, for your drive back, I’m giving you GH¢10,000,” he said. “When you get there, you can buy some water. Congratulations, our target is the continental level—we will be there to support.”
He assured the team of both personal and government’s support to ensure their porogress and growth.
“We will do everything; we will mobilise—personally and at the national level—to do whatever it takes so that you can win”, he added.
Hearts of Oak had taken an early lead through Hamza Issah, but second-half goals from Peter Amidu Acquah and Kwame Opoku turned the game in Kotoko’s favour, securing the prestigious trophy.
Meanwhile other dignitaries also pledged gifts for the winners.
Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) CEO Richard Ofori Agyemang promised a $200 per goal as well as $1,000 per goal pledged by Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo for Hearts of Oak.
The game saw performamces from artiste like Ghanaina dancehall artist,Shatta Wale.
Over the years, Asante Kotoko have been the reigning champions over the last years, with eight titles, despite falling short in the 2024 edition against Ivorian giants ASEC Mimosas.
Hearts of Oak, on the other hand won six President’s Cup wins and are expected to head into the encounter with confidence, having defeated their arch-rivals in their last two meetings in the competition.
As a gesture to boost local support and fan participation, entry to the match will be free for all spectators.
The President’s Cup in Ghana began in 1969. Initially, it was played to honor the sitting president, with each edition named after the leader at the time. For example, the 1969 edition was called the Busia Cup, while the 1973 edition was the Acheampong Cup.
After a long hiatus from 1985 to 2002, the competition was rebranded in 2003 as the President’s Cup, officially organized by the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) and the National Sports Authority.
The first rebranded edition featured Hearts of Oak vs. Great Olympics, with Hearts winning 2–0.
Since then, the tournament has become an annual fixture, typically played in July to mark Ghana’s Republic Day celebrations.
The competition has seen dominant performances from Asante Kotoko, who hold the record with eight titles, while Hearts of Oak follow closely with six titles.
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.
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 over two million cedis worth of property in the last two quarters of 2025.
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 are 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 are 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 on the public’s defiance of 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.
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.
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.
