TIG Post

Author: Abigail Ampofo

  • UG distances itself from land investment ad, cautions against fraudsters

    UG distances itself from land investment ad, cautions against fraudsters

    The University of Ghana (UG) has distanced itself from a fake ad circulating on social media, purportedly inviting investors for a joint venture project involving 80 acres of land at Legon.

    The school’s management, in a statement dated October 20, denied any involvement in the ad, citing that it has no intention of releasing any such into the public domain, as the land which has been mentioned in the form part of the University’s lands.

    “The attention of the Management of the University of Ghana has been drawn to a circulating social media advertisement that seeks to invite investors to invest in a Joint Venture (JV) in eighty (80) acres of land located in a prime area in Legon. The University wishes to advise and warn the public that the said parcel of land forms part of the larger University of Ghana Lands, and that the University has neither commissioned anyone to put that advert in the public domain nor has any intention to establish one,” the statement said.

    It further cautioned the public against falling for such fraud, urging that any suspecting individual or syndicate suspected to be behind these activities be reported to the police or the University of Ghana Management.

    The university reaffirmed its commitment to transparency in all official development and land-related activities, noting that any legitimate investment or partnership opportunities would only be announced through its official communication channels.

    Quite recently, the University of Ghana was in the news again for dismissing students whose Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) was below 1.0 at the end of the 2024/2025 academic year.

    The dismissal, which was announced in an official statement dated 2nd October and signed by Mrs Lydia Anowa Nyarko-Danquah, Director of Academic Affairs, with reference number AA.0IE/10-25, UG, explained that the move was in line with its academic regulations.

    The University of Ghana’s decision is based on Section 9.26 of the University Regulations for Junior Members (2017). It states that “A student who at the end of any academic year has a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) below 1.00 shall be withdrawn from the University. A candidate who does not qualify to progress to the next level shall be asked by the Registrar to withdraw from the University,” the regulation stipulates.

    It further clarifies that there will be no probation for students who fail to meet this academic benchmark.

    As a result, students who fail to achieve the minimum CGPA requirement are considered not to be in good academic standing and are required to withdraw from their respective programmes with immediate effect.

    The affected students have until the end of next month to confirm their withdrawal from the academic institution.

    “Affected students are required to confirm their withdrawal from the University via their official UG email addresses not later than Thursday, 30th November 2025,” parts of the statement warned.

    The University didn’t explicitly say what the penalty would be for students who fail within this category’s failure to heed the orders, but noted that for some programmes, withdrawal letters would also be sent directly by the relevant schools or departments.

    The current withdrawal by the University marks their second in three years. In 2023, the University of Ghana announced in a letter dated 6th October, informing students that continuing students in level 200 and 300 with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) below 1.0 will be dismissed from the University.

    Urging students to confirm their academic status via their MIS Web, the school management informed affected students to expect dismissal mails via their official student emails.

    “In this respect, current level 200 and level 300 students are hereby directed to review their academic performance from their online provisional transcripts in their MISWeb. Students who have received examination results for all 2022/2023 registered courses and obtained a CGPA below the approved minimum for their college should expect official withdrawal letters from the University via their Official UG email addresses soon”, UG noted.

    Meanwhile, the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), embarked on the same exercise in March this year. It dismissed 38 first-year students for failing to meet the institution’s academic requirements.

    A letter dated March 7, signed by Dr Mohammed Adam, Acting Head of Department, and addressed to the Department of Social Studies Education, communicated the decision.

    “This action is based on the students’ failure to meet the minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGP requirement of 1.0 and/or exceeding the permissible number of failed courses after resits, as stipulated in section 4.2.1 of the Revised Undergraduate Students Handbook (2019).

    This decision was made after an audit and review of their First and Second Semester Examination results (2023/2024 Academic Year), during which the affected students received counselling before their withdrawal,” the letter explained.

    As a result, these students cannot proceed to Level 200, attend lectures, or participate in examinations. The department was also instructed to update its records accordingly.

    “Please ensure appropriate measures are taken to reflect these changes in your course register.

    “The attached document details each student’s index number, name, and reason for withdrawal. Your prompt attention to this matter is crucial,” the letter added.

    Among the 38 withdrawn students, 32 had a CGPA below 1.0, while six failed more than three courses by the end of the 2023/2024 academic year.

  • Nottingham Forest names Sean Dyche as new manager

    Nottingham Forest have named former Everton boss Sean Dyche as their new manager.

    This comes after the club parted ways with Ange Postecoglou, who lasted just 39 days when his contract was expected to expire in June next year.

    Following the club’s 3-0 defeat to Chelsea in the Premier League, the hierarchy bid him farewell just seventeen minutes after.

    Taking his place, the club announced a former player, Dyche as the new boss in a formal statement shared on their website by their communications department. They mentioned him to be the one to take charge of their match against FC Porto on Thursday, with a contract that runs until 2027.

    “Nottingham Forest is delighted to confirm the appointment of Sean Dyche as the Club’s new Head Coach, following a thorough recruitment process led by Global Head of Football, Edu Gaspar, and Global Technical Director, George Syrianos. The former Forest youth player joins the Club on a contract running until the summer of 2027 and will take charge of his first match on Thursday night as The Reds take on FC Porto in the Europa League.

    He will be working with former teammates Ian Woan and Steve Ston.

    “ Dyche will be joined by his experienced coaching team of Ian Woan and Steve Stone, both former Nottingham Forest players who together made more than 400 appearances for the Reds during the 1990s”, the statement read.

    Forest is confident of Sean Dyche’s tactical prowess and leadership skills to see the club to its next level, citing that “the appointment represents the best opportunity for a successful and competitive season across both domestic and European competitions”.

    “A respected and experienced Premier League manager, Dyche brings the perfect blend of character, tactical acumen and proven achievement to guide the Club through its next chapter. Having managed more than 330 Premier League matches in his career to date, Dyche has built teams defined by defensive organisation, resilience, and strength from set pieces, qualities that align closely with the current squad’s attributes and the Club’s footballing identity,” the statement mentioned.

    It continued that, “As a former Forest youth player who lives locally, Dyche also has a deep understanding of the values and pride of Forest and its supporters. With his character, tactical acumen and man-management skills, his appointment represents the best opportunity for a successful and competitive season across both domestic and European competitions”.

    Postecoglu did not win any of his eight games in charge – drawing two and losing six – after he was brought in to replace Nuno Espirito Santo, who was sacked just three matches into the campaign.

    Forest are 18th in the league table after one win in eight games during what has been a difficult start to the season.

    “It’s a mess, isn’t it?” said BBC Sport football pundit Chris Sutton on the Monday Night Club before Dyche’s appointment was confirmed.

    “If Dyche gets over the line, it is an admission that they got it wrong with Ange Postecoglou and are thinking about survival.

    “Dyche has always managed clubs where it has been a struggle. He bucked the trend at Burnley and got the best out of the players he had and proved himself to be a competent manager. At Everton, he took over a team in trouble and stabilised the club. He had points deductions to contend with. Forest wants to stay in the league, so it seems a sensible appointment. They won’t go down, they have too many good players.”

    Dyche’s appointment marks the club’s third since the start of this season. So far, the club’s ‘sacking spree’ adds to a record of some of the shortest dismissal cases in football coaching history, signifying the club’s resolve to get to the top.

    Ten Hag’s 2 months stint at Bayer was a similar case of short-term stay with a club, particularly in the history of the Bundesliga. Bayer Leverkusen parted ways with Dutch coach Erik ten Hag after barely two months of his stint with the club.

    Management of the club confirmed his dismissal on Monday, September 1, in a statement on its official website and social media handles.

    The statement, which included comments from the CEO and the Managing Director for sports, mentioned the discomfort relating to their parting due to the short-term nature of the Dutchman’s has with them.

    “Bayer 04 has parted ways with head coach Erik ten Hag with immediate effect. The assistant coaching staff will temporarily take over training duties”, parts of the statement read.

    It continued with remarks from the CEO, Fernando Carro, who stated that,

    “A separation at this early stage of the season is painful, but from our perspective, it was necessary. Our goal remains to achieve the set season objectives – for that, we need the best possible conditions at all levels and across the entire licensed division. Now the focus is on fully reinstating and utilising these conditions.”

    Also, Bayer Leverkusen’s Managing Director for Sport, Simon Rolfes, highlighted that the team have had to make this decision for the general good of the team, citing the club’s performance over the last few weeks.

    In 2007, Torquay United appointed Leroy Rosenior as manager. In just 10 minutes, he was dismissed following an unexpected club takeover.

    Marcelo Bielsa also resigned in 2026, just two days after signing at Lazio, over the club’s failure to deliver on promised transfer targets.

    Fast forward to 2021, and Gennaro Gattuso found himself in a similar predicament at Fiorentina. Appointed with high hopes, Gattuso parted ways with the club after 22 days, citing irreconcilable differences over transfer strategy after overseeing just a match.

    Sam Allardyce led the England team and resigned after just sixty-seven days. During that time, he had a win over Slovakia.

    Finally, Fabio Grosso, World Cup-winning hero turned manager, endured a bruising spell at Brescia in 2019. His tenure lasted three matches, all of which ended in defeat. The club wasted no time in pulling the plug, making Grosso one of the shortest-serving managers in Serie A history.

  • Fire ravages Kantamanto Tazani Lane 

    Fire ravages Kantamanto Tazani Lane 

    Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) firefighters took almost four hours earlier this morning, Tuesday, October 21, to douse a fire that broke out at Kantamanto Tazani Lane near Ecobank in Accra.

    The fire ravaged several commercial structures in the area, GNFS says. 

    According to GNFS, a distress call reached them around 1:31 a.m., which was swiftly responded to in eleven minutes. By 1:42 a.m., the first fire appliance had already arrived at the scene.

    A total of seven fire engines and a turntable ladder were deployed from the Circle, Industrial Area, Accra Regional Headquarters, Madina, and Legon fire stations, with additional support from two appliances from the National Headquarters.

    The fire, which gutted several commercial structures, was confined at 4:49 a.m. after nearly three hours of intense firefighting.

    Acting Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, together with the Director of Operations, the Greater Accra Regional Commander, and other senior officers, visited the scene to assess the situation and provide operational support.

    As of now, no injuries have been reported, and firefighting operations continue to ensure the blaze is completely extinguished. After which, they will launch an investigation to ascertain the cause of the fire.

    Earlier this year, fire ravaged several parts of Kantamanto.

    The fire on January 2 destroyed over 7,000 shops, leaving nearly 30,000 traders struggling financially.

    Also, an inferno destroyed several makeshift wooden and metal structures used for both commercial and residential purposes at Madina Washing Bay near Redco Flat on Sunday evening, August 3.

    The blaze destroyed utility poles, traders’ wares, personal belongings, and an unspecified number of structures worth several thousand cedis, according to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

    In a Facebook post, the Fire Service noted that while battling the inferno, one of its firefighters sustained a minor leg injury.

    The Ghana National Fire Service noted that it received the distress call at 12:36 hours and responded swiftly, with the first crew from Madina Fire Station arriving within 4 minutes at 12:40 hours to confront the fully developed fire.

    Also, four (4) fire engines from Legon, Abelempke, and GNFS Headquarters joined the operation to contain the blaze. According to the GNFS, thanks to the timely and coordinated efforts, the fire was confined at 13:42 hours and fully brought under control at 13:54 hours.

    Overhaul operations continued until 20:50 hours, with firefighters salvaging multiple adjoining structures and their contents. GNFS launched investigations into the cause of the fire.

    Also, months ago, a fire outbreak occurred at Madina Ritz Junction. It was earlier reported that a 2-month-old baby died as a result of the fire incident. However, GNFS, in a Facebook post on July 17, said that after engaging with some victims, particularly women, they confirmed that no lives were lost.

    “A verification team was dispatched to the scene this morning, and after engaging affected residents, particularly the women, and a Unit Committee Member of the area, the Service can confirm that no lives were lost.”

    The Fire Service entreated the public and media outlets to “disregard any reports suggesting otherwise, as they are inaccurate and misleading,” adding that it remains firmly committed to public safety, emergency responsiveness, and transparent communication.”

    The fire began after a gas explosion in one of the shops and quickly spread to adjacent containers, consuming everything in its path.

    The incident, which involved multiple wooden structures used for both residential and commercial purposes, was fully contained through the swift and professional response of firefighters from the Madina, Legon, and Abelemkpe Fire Stations.

    An investigation by the Service was launched to ascertain the cause of the fire, which destroyed several properties. It is yet to be reported the cause of the fire.

    In April this year, a raging fire ripped through the Madina Redco Flats area, reducing more than 150 structures to ashes and claiming the life of a young Nigerian woman. The inferno, which began around 11:15 p.m., rapidly spread across 140 wooden kiosks and 20 metal containers that served as homes and business outlets.

    Though firefighters from the Madina Fire Station arrived on the scene within two minutes, the blaze had already intensified. One fatality was recorded, a Nigerian woman affectionately known in the area as Beauty. Believed to be in her early twenties, she was trapped in her room and could not escape. Her charred remains were retrieved and handed over to the Madina Police for preservation and further investigation.

    Last year, about 50 stalls were burnt to ashes after the Madina Market in Accra caught fire. Deputy Director of Operations at the Ghana National Fire Service, D.O.1. Kofi Forson, who engaged the media, recounted the challenges the firefighters faced in quenching the flame.

    “It was not easy for us, and there was a lack of access to where the fire was spreading, and because it happened in the night, the shops were closed, and we had to break through, and that made it tedious,” he said.

    In the first half of the year, the Ghana National Fire Service has reported a marginal increase in fire outbreaks. 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.

    According to the Ghana National Fire Service, that is about 19 more cases than the 3,576 cases recorded during the same time in 2024, a sharp increase in cases representing a 0.53% rise.

    The monthly breakdown of fire cases reported this year is as follows: January (964), February (678), March (619), April (483), May (457), and June (394).

    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.

    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 were able to save over GH¢203 million worth of properties.

    Fire outbreaks across the country in the first half of 2025 led to the destruction of properties valued at over GH¢188 million.

    Top causes of fire incidents, according to the Ghana National Fire Service, include electrical faults through illegal connections, poor wiring, and overloading of circuits; improper use of electrical appliances, such as overused extension cords and unattended devices.

    Also, 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 are also responsible for fire incidents in the country.

  • Sweden names former Chelsea manager Graham Potter as new coach

    Sweden names former Chelsea manager Graham Potter as new coach

    Sweden has announced former Chelsea and West Ham United manager Graham Potter as the head coach of Sweden’s National Men’s Football Team.

    In a statement shared on their official website today, Monday, October 20, management announced that, following their poor run in their last four matches, from which they earned just a point, they had to part ways with their coach, Jon Dahl Tomasson, last Tuesday. Chelsea and West Ham’s former coach Graham Potter will step in to take over, effective October 20.

    “After only one point after the first four matches in the World Cup qualifiers this fall, the Swedish Football Association’s board chose to terminate the appointment of national captain Jon Dahl Tomasson last Tuesday. The men’s national team will be led by Graham Potter from Monday, October 20.

    “The agreement extends over the ongoing qualifying period with matches against Switzerland and Slovenia in November and a potential playoff in March, and will be automatically extended through the World Cup playoffs next summer if Sweden qualifies there”, the management said.

    Graham Potter, in an acceptance speech, praised the team’s players for their stunning form, promising a conducive environment for them to deliver in their best capacity.

    “I am very humbled by the assignment, but also incredibly inspired. Sweden has fantastic players who deliver in the world’s best leagues during the week. My job will be to create the conditions so that we as a team deliver at the highest level to take Sweden to the World Cup next summer”, Graham Potter, the 50-year-old Brit, expressed.

    Kim Källström, Football Director at SvFF, expressed confidence in Graham’s leadership and tactical philosophy to bring the team to a good form and qualify as they gear up for the World Cup qualifiers.

    “ It feels very good that Graham is coming in as the national team captain for the men’s national team. We are all aware of the situation we are in, and believe that with his leadership skills, he will bring the team together in a good way. He is tactically skilled at creating conditions to win matches and has the ability to identify players’ strengths and how they interact in the best way.
    The new national team captain takes office today and will immediately begin work on the upcoming World Cup qualifiers”, he noted.

    Graham Potter, 50 years old from England, has solid experience of British football and a good knowledge of Swedish football after seven successful years (2011-2018) at Östersunds FK.

    After his Swedish stay, during which Graham Potter led Östersund FK to European Cup matches, he has had several coaching assignments in England at clubs such as Swansea City (Championship), Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, and West Ham in the Premier League.

    In 2019–2022, Graham coached Brighton & Hove Albion and helped stabilize the club in the Premier League,gaining admiration for tactical flexibility and player development.

    Chelsea FC appointed him in September 2022, but his tenure ended in April 2023 after a difficult run of form. Since then, he has been out of the coaching train until he showed up in Sweden as their current coach.

    In an unrelated development, Chelsea won the 2025 Club World Cup, which saw Donald Trump in attendance.

    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.

  • Ruben Amorim says Man Utd’s two consecutive wins “really important for him”

    Ruben Amorim says Man Utd’s two consecutive wins “really important for him”

    Manchester United have recorded two consecutive winning streaks for the first time since head coach Rúben Amorim took charge in November last year.

    The Reds appointed Amorim in November 2024, but nearly ten months into his tenure, the club has yet to see a significant turnaround in fortunes. The team continued to struggle despite high fan expectations following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag in October 2024 for a poor run of results.

    However, his 2-1 win against Chelsea on Sunday, 12 October at Old Trafford, and 2-1 triumph in a clash with Liverpool on Sunday, 19 October after goals by Benjamin Sesko (23’) and Bruno Fernandes (penalty, 78’), prompted his expression of excitement.

    Speaking during his post-match press conference, Amorim stated that, 

    “It’s everything combined for the fans if you ask them on two wins in a row after so many years, it is really important for me that it is back-to-back, it doesn’t matter about the opponent, it is just the feeling of winning.”

    But Amorim said his focus is to achieve a three-in-a-row win as Man Utd gear up for their Premier League Matchweek 9 match with Brighton on Saturday, 25 October at Old Trafford, 17:30 BST (16:30 UTC).

    Amorim said, “The important thing is to think three in a row and that’s the focus” Amorim said to the BBC after the game.”

    Before this back-to-back win, Head coach Amorim had taken just 34 points from his 33 Premier League games in charge. But his record as of October 20 put him just a point above his previous.

    Man Utd lost for the fourth game in a row in all competitions, but for Amorim, bagging two EPL wins in a row was an important mark chalked in his first full season at the club.

    One of the club legends that have been quite vocal about the team’s performances is Wayne Rooney. He expressed his frustration about the club’s current state, highlighting that his faith in Amorim’s leadership is dead now.

    Wayne Rooney made these comments on a BBC podcast, which was aired on September 29, following Manchester United’s 1-3 loss to Brentford on September 27.

    According to Rooney, he sees faith in Ruben Amorim to turn things around at Manchester United and believes the soul has gone from his former club. 

    “I just don’t know what’s going on. I have tried my hand at management, and it didn’t work out too well, so I get it. Ruben Amorim is my age, he’s still a young manager, and I’m sure he’s got a massive future, but what’s going on at Man Utd, this is not Man Utd. I honestly hope he can turn it around, and he does. But… after everything I’ve seen, honestly, I’ve got no faith in it,” he said on his BBC podcast.

    He fumed over players’ dead desire to fight and win, adding that he goes to games expecting the team to lose and feels some players do not deserve to represent the club.

    “I don’t recognise the whole football club. I don’t see players fighting, I don’t see character, I don’t see desire to win. I go to a game watching… expecting the team to lose or maybe pick up a point. The soul has gone from the club. It needs a new engine, a new lease of life. It needs something to kickstart that football club. What is going on? This is not all on the manager, by the way. Players, they’re not deserving to wear that shirt, and it hurts.” 

    However, following Utd recent wins, he has publicly praised the team’s performances, especially highlighting Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire after their back-to-back wins over Chelsea and Liverpool.

    scepticalHe admitted he was “skeptical” about Mbeumo’s £65 million move from Brentford but now says the forward has “proved him wrong.”

    “I had my doubts at first, but he’s proved me completely wrong. He’s already United’s best player this season.”

    Currently, pundits and fans are beginning to question whether Amorim’s tactics, which have subjected him to heavy criticism, particularly from legends like Rooney.

    On September 14, Man Utd suffered an embarrassing defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The Reds lost against their rivals in a 0-3 derby with a brace from Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.

    Speaking in a post-match conference, Amorim addressed some mistakes made by his side, highlighting the confused state of the players at times. According to him, some goals could have been avoided, but he admits he made poor decisions during the game.

    On his tactical philosophy, which has come under massive attack, particularly after the derby defeat against City, he reiterated that he will not change it. Some critics have slammed him for his 3-4-3 setup, which appears to be affecting players like Bruno Fernandes or Benjamin Šešk, given United’s current position on the league table.

    “It’s not a record that you should have at Manchester United… But I’m not going to change. When I want to change my philosophy, I will change. If not, you have to change the man.”

    But Rooney had a different opinion. He mentioned that fans were so disappointed that they began to leave the stadium with chants of Amorim’s name. There are no signs of recovery for the once celebrated and results-oriented Man Utd that had its name on the lips of fans all the time.

    “I think if the manager is honest with himself, it has got worse. I want to be as supportive and positive as I can be of the manager and the players. But it is very difficult to sit here and say we are seeing progression, and at least we’re seeing things that will get results in the near future.

    “I think after the last year when Ten Hag got sacked and Ruben came in, we’re hearing how they’re going to play and it is going to change,” said Rooney, who scored 253 goals for United between 2004 and 2017.

    “We’re seeing none of that, and it is very difficult. There was an image towards the end of the game where I saw the Manchester United fans leaving. You could hear the fans singing Amorim’s name, but I think that is so powerful that the United fans were leaving the game. You know the game is over, and I think they were very disappointed in what they were seeing. It is hard to see how it continues”, he questioned.

  • U-20 World Cup: Morocco beats Argentina in 2-0 clash to win title

    U-20 World Cup: Morocco beats Argentina in 2-0 clash to win title

    Morocco’s senior team made history at the last World Cup hosted in Qatar in 2022 by finishing in fourth and making history as the first African nation to reach the semifinals of the tournament.

    What the senior team missed out on has been achieved by the Under-20 team after they beat Argentina, whose senior team currently reign as the World Cup champions, in a 2-0 clash in a historic run in Chile on Sunday night. They took home the Under-20 World Cup yesterday.

    Yassir Zabiri, of FC Famalicao in the Portuguese top flight, took Argentina by surprise when he found the back of the net just 12 minutes into the game.

    After a sequence involving Ismael Baouf and Othmane Maamma, Zabiri finished with a volley to double Morocco’s lead at the 29th minute. Before Morocco’s win against Argentina, they beat South Korea, the United States and France in the knockout. It became the first African nation to win the U20 title since Ghana in 2009.

    Morocco’s senior national team, on the other hand, have secured their ticket for the 2026 World Cup after finishing first in its group.

    However, Argentina suffered their first loss in the tournament as it aimed for it’s seventh title. Despite the injury sideline of two of its best players in this age group, Bayer Leverkusen’s Claudio Echeverri and Real Madrid´s Franco Mastantuono, the team still made it to the final although they couldn’t clinch to the trophy.

    Nine (9) African nations have secured their tickets to the global football tournament, FIFA 2026 World Cup, following the wrap-up of the CAF qualification campaign.

    The World Cup qualifiers delivered an exciting blend of comeback tales and breakthroughs. Cape Verde made it this time, marking their maiden participation, a feat they describe as the second-best thing to happen to their nation aside from independence, being the second-smallest nation to ever qualify for the tournament. Their new record is reminiscent of Iceland’s trailblazing run in 2018.

    On the other hand, Ivory Coast and South Africa secured long-awaited returns to the global stage, while established powerhouses like Senegal, Morocco, and Tunisia once again proved their dominance, highlighting the growing competitiveness and maturity of African football on the world scene.

    The Black Stars of Ghana made history, qualifying for a fifth World Cup, led by former player Otto Addo.

    So far, the confirmed nations that have officially been named among the qualifiers include Ghana Black Stars, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, South Africa, and Cape Verde. With some of the top national teams set to compete at the global showpiece, the expectations would be high.

    Morocco reached the semi-finals at the 2022 edition and made Africa very proud. Hopefully, one of the nine qualified national teams would match that feat or even go a step closer to playing in the final. President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    President Mahama cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros courtesy of a decisive goal from Mohammed Kudus in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    Referring to an unforgettable situation in the history of Ghana football, where Asamoah’s penalty miss cost Ghana’s place in the semi-finals, he urged the team,

    “We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco by going beyond the semi-finals and, who knows, with fingers crossed, bring the World Cup trophy home to make Ghana and Africa proud”.

    He further went on to call on Ghanaians to support the team without any bias.

    “We must all rally behind the Black Stars. We must support them to the hilt. Let’s not bring in any partisan or ethnic considerations. Let’s give them our full support,” he added.

    The Black Stars will discover their group-stage opponents during the World Cup draw on December 5, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

    Following a group-stage exit at their previous World Cup in Qatar, Ghana now hopes to make a lasting impact in the 2026 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Meanwhile, German manufacturer Adidas, which has been designing World Cup balls since the 1970 tournament, has once again produced the official match ball for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup.

    Named Trionda, the ball was officially unveiled on Thursday, October 2, during a global launch event at Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York City. The presentation, hosted jointly by FIFA and Adidas, showcased the ball’s design, technology, and symbolic meaning.

    FIFA president Gianni Infantino, during the unveiling of the ball, said, “The Official Match Ball for the FIFA World Cup 26 is here, and it’s a beauty! “I am delighted and proud to present the Trionda.”

    Trionda, originating from Spanish, is interpreted as “tri” (three) and “onda” (wave), which signifies the three host countries of the global tournament. Trionda stuns with an aesthetic design which has representations from all three host countries, Canada, Mexico, and the USA, with features including Red panels with maple leaves for Canada, green panels with eagle motifs for Mexico and blue panels with stars for the USA. It also has a central triangle formed by the panel seams, symbolising unity.

  • Kidnappers kill young Senegalese goalkeeper in Ghana

    Kidnappers kill young Senegalese goalkeeper in Ghana

    An 18-year-old Senegalese goalkeeper, Cheikh Touré, has been murdered in Ghana after falling victim to a network of scams and extortion.

    According to reports, he was killed by kidnappers after his family was unable to raise the ransom they demanded.

    His death was confirmed by Senegal’s Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, who issued a statement announcing the tragic killing of the young goalkeeper after his lifeless body was discovered in Ghana.

    The Minister explained that Cheikh had been deceived into believing he was travelling to Ghana for a trial with a professional club. The scam resulted in his being held hostage by his captors, who demanded a ransom from his family in exchange for his release.

    The statement added that Touré’s body, currently deposited at the Ebenezer Tarfo morgue in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region, will be repatriated once the necessary authorisations are completed.

    The Senegalese Embassy has dispatched two representatives to Kumasi to collaborate with local authorities on the required administrative and judicial procedures, while maintaining close contact with the victim’s family.

    The Cyber Security Authority in Ghana recently reported a rise in cyber crimes in Ghana. According to the CSA, Ghana has lost over GH¢19 million to cybercrime between January and September this year. This marks a 17 percent increase in cyber crimes compared to the same period last year.

    The Authority’s Head of Law Enforcement and Liaison at the CSA, Colonel George Eduah Bessi, made this revelation during a cybersecurity awareness webinar organised by the Africa Centre for Digital Transformation.

    He expressed concern over the growing trend of online crimes in Ghana, highlighting the dangers it poses to the economy. Earlier in the year, the authority reported a steep rise in cybercrime, with a record 2,008 cyber incidents, marking a 52 per cent rise from 2024.

    In a related development, Ghana Police, in a joint operation with the International Police (INTERPOL), cracked down on scammers in the country, arresting sixty-eight suspected individuals involved in romance scams and sextortion.

    In a release shared by INTERPOL on its official website, the international security agency revealed that the operation, dubbed Operation Contender 3.0 and funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office under the African Joint Operation against Cybercrime project, discovered that these criminal syndicates caused USD 450,000 in financial losses, with USD 70,000 recovered in cash.

    “Ghanaian authorities arrested 68 individuals, seized 835 devices and identified 108 victims. Their investigations revealed USD 450,000 in financial losses, with USD 70,000 recovered,” excerpts of the statement revealed.

    According to INTERPOL, the operation was targeted at criminal networks exploiting social media and dating platforms to carry out romance scams and sextortion.

    “The crackdown targeted transnational criminal networks exploiting digital platforms, particularly social media, to manipulate victims and defraud them financially. Specifically, the operation focused on romance scams, where perpetrators build online relationships to extract money from victims, and sextortion, in which victims are blackmailed with explicit images or videos,” the statement said.

    According to INTERPOL’s 2025 Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report released in June, “two-thirds of surveyed African member countries said cyber-related offences make up a medium-to-high proportion of all crimes.”

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on the other hand, in a joint operation on Friday, October 17, busted a human trafficking syndicate operated mainly by Ghanaians and Ivorians.

    In a statement shared the same day, the crime intelligence agency announced that following the raid, it had successfully rescued 26 victims of human trafficking, comprising sixteen (16) Ghanaians and ten (10) Ivorians.

    These nationals had fallen victim to job opportunity scams run by individuals posing as recruitment agents for QNET, a multinational company known for its wellness and lifestyle products.

    The operation, dubbed “Operation Quest,” was conducted by EOCO’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit in collaboration with QNET, around 10:30 a.m.

    “The operation, code-named Operation Quest, followed intelligence that some foreigners and Ghanaians had been trafficked under the guise of employment with the QNET Company — a reputable organisation that trades in wellness and lifestyle products.

    The suspects include two (2) Ivorians and seven (7) Ghanaians, while the victims were made up of ten (10) Ivorians and sixteen (16) Ghanaians,” the statement noted.

    The organisation clarified that these individuals had no legitimate ties to the company and were exploiting QNET’s reputation to carry out their illicit activities.

    “All nine (9) suspects are currently in the custody of EOCO to assist in investigations,” parts of the statement added.

    EOCO cautioned the public against falling for such scams and advised that all reports of employment offers purportedly from QNET be directed to the appropriate authorities. It also reminded the public that the company is working to restore its reputation, which has suffered due to impersonation by groups and agencies using its name for fraudulent recruitment schemes.

    “EOCO wishes to advise the general public to report all cases of individuals and groups who claim to be agents of QNET who can provide job opportunities at the company, either in Ghana or abroad.

  • OSP releases fresh list of corruption cases; more expected in final quarter

    OSP releases fresh list of corruption cases; more expected in final quarter

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has announced a list of cases it is currently pursuing as the courts resume from vacation.

    In a post shared on its official Facebook page, the independent anti-corruption agency in Ghana noted that several individuals were currently facing charges, and more others will be prosecuted in the last quarter. 

    “With the courts resuming from vacation, these are the cases the OSP is actively prosecuting on your behalf, with more cases to be filed in the last quarter of the year, he said.

    According to the OSP, “earlier this year, seven individuals were convicted through plea bargains”.

    Among the cases highlighted by the OSP are those involving former National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Chief Executive Mustapha Abdul-Hamid and nine others, as well as former Public Procurement Authority (PPA) boss Adjenim Boateng Adjei, former presidential staffer Charles Bissue, and two others.

    The Office reiterated its commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in public life and pledged to continue its work without fear or favour.

    On 23 July 2023, the Office initiated criminal proceedings in the High Court, accra against Mustapha abdul-Hamid (a former Chief executive of the National Petroleum Authority) and nine (9) others, including three (3) corporate entities. the accused persons are charged with twenty-five counts of conspiracy to commit extortion by a public officer; extortion by a public officer; using public office for profit; conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. the case is adjourned till 26 august 2025.

    The Republic v. Issah Seidu & 3 others

    On 27 June 2025, the Office arraigned three (3) public officials and one (1) retired public official – Issah Seidu, James Keck Osei, John Abban, and Peter Archibald Hyde—before the High Court, Accra on charges for corruption by and of a public officer and using public office for profit concerning an attempt to unlawfully appropriate ten containers of imported rice at the tema Port. the case is adjourned to 21 October 2025.

    With regard to concluded investigations, the Office has concluded investigation into suspected corruption

    and corruption-related offences in respect of the procurement and the award of a contract to turfsport Ghana limited by the Gaming Commission of Ghana. The suspects have made an offer of restitution to the republic under section 71 of act 959. The Special Prosecutor, in exercise of his mandate under section 71(3) of act 959, has considered that the offer is acceptable. the terms would be duly placed before the High Court for adoption.

    Meanwhile, the Office is currently seized with sixty-seven (67) cases which are at the full investigation stage. The Office is investigating suspected corruption and corruption-related offences in respect of the operations of the Minerals Income Investment fund (MIIf) between 2020-2024 – especially regarding payments made in respect of agyapa royalties limited; Small Scale Mining Incubation Programme (SSMIP); Quarry Value addition Programme (QVaP); lithium asset (projected lithium-focused exploration and development corporation); Gold asset 2 (enchi gold project); all other investments by MIIf; funds expended on the Chairman of the Board of Directors; the operational funds of MIIF; purchase of parcel of land for intended office building; contracts and agreements entered into by MIIf; and publications by MIIF. the investigation targets some former and serving officials of MIIF and the following entities:

    • Asante Gold Corporation

    • ElectroChem Ghana Limited

    • Goldridge Ghana Limited

    • GIG Minerals Limited

    • RCM Properties

    • Energy & Resources Company Limited

    • Goldstrom Ghana Limited

    • BH Minerals Limited

    Also, the Office is investigating suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses in respect of the operations and contractual arrangements of Ghana airports Company limited between 2020-2024.

    In August this year, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) clarified that the widely circulated media reports that former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah has been cleared of corruption-related charges filed against her are misleading and false.

    In an official release shared yesterday, the OSP noted that certain media outlets reported that the FBI “found no evidence of corruption,” while others claimed the FBI “found no direct evidence of corruption.” Some have gone further to publish that the FBI has cleared Cecilia Dapaah.

    “These reports are inaccurate and a mischievous misrepresentation of the OSP’s Half-Yearly Report (page 9, bullet 2.26). The findings were the result of investigations conducted by the OSP and a parallel aspect by the FBI at the instance of the OSP,” a part of the statement read.

    The release comes after some media houses misinterpreted a section of the OSP’s 2025 half-yearly report released yesterday, Tuesday, August 19. On page 15 of the fifty-page document, item number 2.25 is subtitled ‘Cecilia Dapaah’.

    The Office commenced an investigation in July 2023 in respect of suspected corruption and corruption-related offences regarding large amounts of money and other valuable items involving Ms. Cecilia Abena Dapaah, a former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, and her associates.

    After nearly seven months of extensive investigation by the Office and a parallel inquiry by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States, no direct and immediate evidence of corruption was found in respect of seized funds and frozen bank accounts linked to Ms. Dapaah and her associates—though the investigation identified strong indications of suspected money laundering and structuring, beyond the direct mandate of the Office.”

    The statement continued that, following investigations by his office, there were discoveries of money laundering in the former Sanitation Minister’s case, which falls outside the office’s jurisdiction; hence, the need for it to be forwarded to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

    However, the previous leadership of EOCO did nothing about it and returned the case docket to their office.

    “The OSP further emphasises that the case was referred to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) under the previous leadership of EOCO because Investigations uncovered strong Indications of suspected money laundering and structuring, which fall within EOCO’s direct mandate. The previous leadership of EOCO did not act on it and returned the docket to the OSP,” the statement read.

    However, following the change in administration, the docket of Cecilia Dapaah has been sent back to EOCO upon request.

    Following this detailed explanation of the report on Cecilia Dapaah’s case, the OSP has urged all media outlets to report with precision and fidelity to the text of official documents to ensure accurate, fair, and responsible public communication on matters of high national interest.

    As part of its update, the OSP noted that there were seven (7) convictions and one (1) acquittal in respect of the cases pending before the criminal courts during the period under review. The Office has filed an appeal in respect of the case in which the accused was acquitted.

  • NSA scandal: Court adjourns case indefinitely as Gifty Oware reports ill health, Assibey faces separate legal tussle

    NSA scandal: Court adjourns case indefinitely as Gifty Oware reports ill health, Assibey faces separate legal tussle

    The hearing of the criminal case involving the former Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi, and his former deputy, Gifty Oware-Mensah, has been indefinitely adjourned.

    Osei Assibey Antwi and his deputy, Gifty Oware, were scheduled to make their first court appearance on Friday, 17th October, but the duo failed to show up.

    Lawyers for Osei Assibey Antwi told the Accra High Court that their client had not been served with any formal notice or charge sheet regarding the case against him.

    His lawyer, Paa Kwesi Kuboadzi, appeared in informal attire and explained that, “I was called about an hour ago to appear in court. That is why I am naked.”

    He emphasized that they were not given prior notice and requested that the prosecution provide ample time and proper service before the next hearing. Also, Assibey’s legal counsel noted that his client was busy cooperating with the police on a separate matter in Kumasi.

    However, his deputy, Oware, submitted a two-day excuse duty, with her lawyers disclosing that their client is unwell and unable to attend proceedings.

    The Attorney General of Ghana formally filed criminal charges against Osei Assibey Antwi and Gifty Oware-Mensah on Monday, October 13. The accusations include causing financial loss to the Republic, with the main charge suggesting that he approved payments of allowances to over 60,000 ghost national service personnel, leading to a total loss of GH¢500,861,744.02.

    He is additionally charged with several counts of theft, amounting to GH¢8,256,000, which allegedly occurred between August 2023 and May 2024.

    Prosecutors say Mr Antwi diverted project funds, authorizing the withdrawal of GH¢106 million from the NSA’s Kumawu Farm Project account on five different occasions without using any of it for the intended purpose.

    The state also contends that he engaged in money laundering by transferring GH¢8.26 million into his personal e-zwich account and taking control of the funds despite knowing they were criminal proceeds.

    In total, the alleged offenses connected to Mr. Antwi are valued at approximately GH¢615,117,744.02. Gifty Oware-Mensah, on the other hand, has been charged with five offenses, including Stealing, Willfully Causing Financial Loss, Using Public Office for Profit, and Money Laundering.

    Court documents indicate that Oware-Mensah, who managed the Finance and Procurement units of the NSA, allegedly masterminded a sophisticated scheme centered on the Authority’s “marketplace” platform, a system intended to offer hire-purchase services to national service personnel.

    Prosecutors claim she gained control of a private entity, Blocks of Life Consult, and created a list of 9,934 fictitious names within the NSA database.

    She is said to have then approached the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), falsely asserting that her company had supplied goods to those ghost beneficiaries and required a loan, using their fake allowances as collateral.

    This deception allegedly led to a loan arrangement between ADB and the NSA, which resulted in GH¢31.5 million being paid directly into her company’s account. Of that amount, she is accused of transferring over GH¢22.9 million to another company where she also served as a director.

    Investigations revealed that no goods were ever delivered to any service personnel. Her actions, with interest included, are alleged to have cost the state a total of GH¢38,458,248.87.

    A couple of months ago, Attorney-General (A-G) and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, revealed that eight individuals, including three former officers of the National Service Authority (NSA), had admitted to their involvement in the misappropriation of funds at the National Service Scheme (NSS).

    Providing an update on the case as part of the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 28, Dr. Ayine disclosed that eight individuals want to plead guilty in exchange for lighter punishment in this regard.

    He explained that the office intended to file formal charges last week; however, it has been postponed following new revelations regarding the ongoing case.

    The new evidence, he noted, is tied to a Bank of Ghana account linked to former NSA Director-General, Mr. Osei Assibey, suggesting potential embezzlement involving public funds.According to him, a total of GH¢189 million was deposited into the account of Mr. Osei Assibey; however, GH¢80 million can not be accounted for.

    Furthermore, nearly GH¢2 million was allegedly withdrawn using two cheques that carried Mr. Assibey’s name and account information.

    The A-G has stated that the office has reached out to the Bank of Ghana, the Ministry of Finance, and the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department for further information and documentation.

    “The National Service Authority scandal case was due to be filed last week. However, we stumbled upon evidence of malfeasance involving an account at the Bank of Ghana.“Out of the GH¢189 million transferred, GH¢80 million cannot be traced. Two cheques linked to the former Director-General were used to withdraw just under GH¢2 million,” Dr. Ayine stated.

    He added that some of the accused have shown readiness to provide testimony against their fellow accused, with several vendors and service providers also reportedly willing to support the prosecution as witnesses. Earlier this year, a non-profit investigative body, The Fourth Estate, released a report into the payroll records from 2017 to 2023 and the 2024 National Service Year.

    The finding revealed serious irregularities within the NSA, uncovering how a 72-year-old Kenyan, Kwame Donkor, was wrongly listed as a beneficiary. Mr Donkor was enlisted on the payroll with a photo and not an official ID card, which is unusual.

    However, the photo belonged to Emmanuel Mutio, a Human Resource Manager at a private IT company in Kenya. The 72-year-old Kenyan had his name appear on the payroll 226 times as a registered beneficiary.

    The Fourth Estate initially uncovered the issue in November 2024, but the NSA obtained a court order preventing them from publishing the findings.

    After the court lifted the injunction, the report was finally released. In response, President John Dramani Mahama ordered a probe into the matter.

    The NIB, upon the President’s directive, interrogated the former Deputy Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah, and Kwaku Ohene Djan, who is also a former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority.The payroll fraud reportedly costs Ghana GHȼ50 million monthly. In May, the Authority interdicted two of its officials in the Brim North District, Eastern Region.

    Meanwhile, a new posting and management system designed to automate allowance payments and eliminate ghost names from the national service payroll has been introduced by the National Service Authority (NSA).

    Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, Ruth Dela Seddoh, said the enhanced digital platform integrates directly with Ghana’s national identification database to verify personnel identities and ages against tertiary institution records, effectively eliminating ghost names and duplicate entries.

    He told the media on Tuesday, October 7, the system introduces end-to-end automation, from posting to allowance processing, to ensure only verified personnel are paid.

    “The payroll is automatically generated from verified and appraised personnel data, ensuring that only eligible and validated service personnel receive their allowances. The system checks, cross-checks, and confirms all records before processing payments,” she explained.

    Ruth Dela Seddoh disclosed that attendance monitoring has been upgraded through geofencing technology, which ensures personnel can only check in when they are physically at their designated workplaces, an initiative designed to curb absenteeism and eliminate proxy attendance.

    Apart from payroll improvements, the upgraded system incorporates a smart placement algorithm that automatically assigns personnel to institutions based on their qualifications, regional choices, and institutional requirements.

    The platform also simplifies approval processes, attendance validation, and report submission, minimizing delays and the need for manual handling.

    Every service personnel will now have access to a customized dashboard showing their posting information, institution details, duty records, and a digital certificate with a QR code for instant authentication.

  • Ghana loses GHS19m to cybercrime from Jan–Sept – CSA

    Ghana loses GHS19m to cybercrime from Jan–Sept – CSA

     Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has announced over GH¢19 million in losses to cybercrime between January and September this year. This marks a 17 per cent increase in cyber crimes compared to the same period last year.

    The Authority’s Head of Law Enforcement and Liaison at the CSA, Colonel George Eduah Bessi, made this revelation during a cybersecurity awareness webinar organised by the Africa Centre for Digital Transformation.

    He expressed concern over the growing trend of online crimes in Ghana, highlighting the dangers it poses to the economy. Earlier in the year, the authority reported a steep rise in cybercrime, with a record 2,008 cyber incidents, marking a 52 per cent rise from 2024.

    He said online among the crimes, the most prevalent is online fraud, which makes up about 36% of the reported cases, including mobile money scams, fake investment schemes, phishing attacks, and cyber bullying, mostly targeted at women and children, represented 25 per cent of all reported incidents.

    Colonel Bessi mentioned that his outfit has ramped up efforts to create awareness and ensure regulations compliance among users, urging individuals and businesses to adopt stronger cybersecurity practices.

    He commended the Africa Centre for Digital Transformation for its ongoing efforts, stressing that such initiatives are critical to sanitising the digital ecosystem and preventing future threats.

    “The rising losses highlight the urgent need for greater cybersecurity awareness across all sectors of Ghana’s digital economy,” he cautioned.

    His remarks come on the back of the government’s establishment of a $50 million fund to help fight cyber crimes in the country.

    This was announced by President John Mahama in a speech at the launch of the 2025 National Cyber Security Awareness Month and the inauguration of the Joint Cyber Security Committee, which took place at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on Wednesday, October 1.

    “We are establishing a $50 million FinTech Growth Fund to support Ghanaian innovators in developing digital solutions tailored to our local needs. This initiative is a key pillar of our Reset Ghana agenda, aimed at boosting the digital economy and strengthening our fight against cybercrime,” he said.

    He continued that the fund forms part of his government’s Reset Ghana agenda, which seeks to build a strong and secure digital system.

    “As we expand digital public services and mobile money usage, we must reinforce the systems that safeguard them. This is why under the Reset Ghana agenda, my administration has prioritised digital transformation as a key part of our national development policy. And cybersecurity is at the core of that transformation,” President Mahama said.

    The President outlined four flagship digital programmes already underway. These include the One Million Coders Programme, which seeks to train young Ghanaians in software engineering, data analytics, and cybersecurity; and the Digital Jobs Initiative, a public-private partnership aimed at creating sustainable employment opportunities in technology.

    He added that the new FinTech Growth Fund will support local start-ups to design financial technology solutions that can serve both Ghana and the wider African market.

    “The FinTech Growth Fund will support local start-ups to design financial technology solutions that serve Ghana and can be scaled across the African continent. We are investing in innovation that reflects our realities and empowers our people,” he said.

    At the same event, Interior Minister, Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, has confirmed INTERPOL’s report that sixty-eight suspected cybercriminals have been apprehended by the Cyber Crime Unit of the Ghana Police Service in a joint operation which led to the seizure of more than 800 electronic devices linked to online fraud and other illegal activities.

    The Asawase Member of Parliament highlighted the government’s commitment to fighting online crime.

    “Our cybercrime units successfully arrested 68 suspected cybercriminals, identified 108 victims, and seized over 885 electronic devices linked to illicit activities,” he said.

    “This remarkable achievement underscores the unwavering commitment of the Government of Ghana to safeguarding our digital space, protecting our citizens and contributing to the global fight against cybercrime.”

    He also highlighted that the Ghana security service is stepping up cyber intelligence and open-source monitoring efforts to track and neutralise threats before they escalate.

    “In this fast-evolving landscape, proactive intelligence gathering and threat monitoring are essential. To this end, the Ghana Police Service is employing cyber intelligence, open-source intelligence techniques, and internal data-sharing platforms to identify, track, and neutralise threats before they escalate,” the Minister noted.

    On Thursday, September 26, INTERPOL issued a statement a release shared by INTERPOL on its official website, the international security agency revealed that the operation, dubbed Operation Contender 3.0 and funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office under the African Joint Operation against Cybercrime project, discovered that these criminal syndicates caused USD 450,000 in financial losses, with USD 70,000 recovered in cash.

    “Ghanaian authorities arrested 68 individuals, seized 835 devices and identified 108 victims. Their investigations revealed USD 450,000 in financial losses, with USD 70,000 recovered,” excerpts of the statement revealed.

    According to INTERPOL, the operation was targeted at criminal networks exploiting social media and dating platforms to carry out romance scams and sextortion.

    “The crackdown targeted transnational criminal networks exploiting digital platforms, particularly social media, to manipulate victims and defraud them financially. Specifically, the operation focused on romance scams, where perpetrators build online relationships to extract money from victims, and sextortion, in which victims are blackmailed with explicit images or videos,” the statement said.

    INTERPOL explained: “…For romance scams, the suspects had used fake profiles, forged identities and stolen images to deceive victims. The scammers extracted payments using a range of schemes, including fake courier and customs shipment fees. In sextortion cases, offenders secretly recorded intimate videos during explicit chats and used them for blackmail.”

    On the continent level, these syndicates have caused an estimated $2.8 million in losses to 1,463 identified victims.

    During the operation, police identified IP addresses, digital infrastructures, domains and social media profiles linked to members of the scam syndicates. These leads and the subsequent arrests also resulted in the seizure of USB drives, SIM cards, and forged documents, as well as the takedown of 81 cybercrime infrastructures across Africa.

    The operation, which ran from July 28 to August 11, 2025, resulted in the seizure of 1,235 electronic devices continent-wide.

    Acting Executive Director of Police Services at INTERPOL, Cyril Gout, highlighted the growing threat, stating, “Cybercrime units across Africa are reporting a sharp rise in digital-enabled crimes such as sextortion and romance scams. The growth of online platforms has opened new opportunities for criminal networks to exploit victims, causing both financial loss and psychological harm.”

    He emphasised that collaboration between INTERPOL, its member countries, and private sector partners like Group-IB and Trend Micro was crucial to the operation’s success, enabling enhanced data sharing and swift enforcement actions that led to the takedown of 81 cybercrime infrastructures.

    “The transnational operation was strengthened by collaboration with private sector partners Group-IB and Trend Micro, resulting in enhanced data sharing and operational capabilities. The exchange of INTERPOL cyber activity reports facilitated swift enforcement actions from participating countries, underscoring the value of international cooperation in combating cybercrime,” INTERPOL highlighted.

  • 50-year-old mason gruesomely murdered; veins, left heel, and other body parts missing

    50-year-old mason gruesomely murdered; veins, left heel, and other body parts missing

    Residents of Domeabra Old Town in the Ga South Municipality are currently living in fear following the gruesome murder of a 50-year-old mason, locally identified as ‘Taller’.

    His body was discovered in an uncompleted building, savagely mutilated with specific organs and tissues removed, raising suspicions of a possible ritual killing, a category of homicide that, according to police data, remains a grave concern in the region. 

    The Assemblyman for the Domeabra Electoral Area, Joseph Akrashie, who has been coordinating with local law enforcement, provided chilling details of the police’s preliminary findings to Adom News.

    And according to him, “Taller is well-known in the area, and we are shocked about what has happened to him,” Akrashie said, conveying the community’s disbelief.

    He proceeded to detail the precise nature of the mutilation as explained by the police, indicating that,  “…the suspects cut the deceased’s left heel and left thigh and removed all the veins in that part.”

    Following the discovery, the Ghana Police Service Homicide Unit was immediately deployed.

    The body of the deceased was promptly conveyed to the Police Hospital Mortuary in Accra to undergo an autopsy, which is expected to confirm the exact cause of death and provide further forensic evidence relating to the type of instrument used in the mutilation.

    Currently, no arrests have been made in connection with the murder; however, police have intensified investigations to apprehend the suspects who are still at large. 

    This has prompted calls from residents to the government and the IGP to beef up security in the community to ensure safety and prevent a recurrence.

    In July, a similar ritual killing incident occured when six people including a female murder a 25-year-old mason for money rituals.

    Six individuals, including five males and a female, are in police custody for their involvement in the murder of a 25-year-old mason, Nelson Anyena, at Mafi Adidome.

    He was murdered after moving to stay with his wife, having left his hometown, Wusuta, in the South Dayi District, on December 4, 2024.

    The suspects Augustina Fiawoyife (21), 31-year-old herbalist Wisdom Hedidor, Courage Bedzo (31), 42-year-old fetish priest Gblor Noah, Yohannes Gblor (27), and John Gblor (40) were apprehended last month.

    They have been remanded into prison and police custody, respectively, and are scheduled to reappear on August 8 as investigation continues.

    They were arrested at Blorkorfe and Awakpedome, suburbs of Adidome in the Central Tongu District, by the Volta Regional Police Command.

    Per preliminary police investigations, Augustina Fiawoyife, the girlfriend of Wisdom Hedidor, was tasked by her boyfriend to lure Nelson Anyena to a location.

    At about 8:00 pm on December 4, Augustina lured the deceased to a secluded location through a phone call under the pretense of having an amorous discussion with him.

    Nelson Anyena, upon arrival, was attacked and strangled to death by Wisdom Hedidor and Courage Bedzo.

    After the act, Wisdom Hedidor and Courage Bedzo are said to have called Gblor Noah, the fetish priest who earlier approached them to get him a dead body for a ransom, to tell him that they had succeeded in getting him his request.

    Noah Gblor and his two brothers, Yohannes Gblor and John Gblor, met Wisdom and Courage and made a payment of Gh¢7000 which they charged, and thereafter, took the body to the shrine at Blorkope.

    The police on July 3 obtained an exhumation order from the Ho Magistrate Court 1 to exhume the body of Nelson Anyena as part of investigations.

    On July 7, the police detectives, made up of crime scene experts led by the Volta Regional Crime Officer, Supt./Mr. Omari Mic Boakye, and the Environmental Health Officers from the Ho municipality executed the exhumation order and retrieved the body of Nelson Anyena which was buried under a shrine that belongs to Noah Gblor.

    The exercise led to the discovery of two more bodies buried at the same shrine after the alleged ritual business.

    The suspected body remains of Nelson and the extra two unknown bodies were conveyed to the Police Hospital Mortuary in Accra for preservation awaiting autopsy and DNA profiling.

    As the police continue their investigation, the Regional Police Command has entreated the family and close associates of the deceased to remain calm as they pursue justice.

    “The Regional Police Command duly appreciates the support of the public in uncovering the heinous crime,” the police added in a statement.

  • UP’s message should be centered on entrepreneurship, not politics – Franklin Cudjoe advises Alan

    UP’s message should be centered on entrepreneurship, not politics – Franklin Cudjoe advises Alan

    Policy think tank IMANI Africa has advised the founder and leader of the newly rebranded movement the United Party’s Alan Kyeremanten to return to his first love as an advocate of wealth creation and entrepreneurship. 

    With  track record of serving as first Regional Director of Enterprise Africa, a flagship UNDP initiative promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Africa as well as serving in the capacity as a Trade Minister for over four years, a message built in that regard will be well received by the public.

    Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, October 18, two days after  launch of UP Plus at a ceremony held in Accra, Ghana, President of IMANI, Franklin Cudjoe said Kyerematen’s long-standing association with entrepreneurship and private sector advocacy stands a chance of being well received if  communicated with clarity and purpose.

    “If Alan stays the course of understanding that his first love was enterprise, and he could turn that into something sellable… If Alan could reorient his message around building businesses and say, ‘I am here for you, the ordinary person. I am here to give you the opportunity and teach the skills to help you save a little more,’ then that could work,” Cudjoe said.

    He urged  Kyerematen to desist from the pure political rhetorics if he wants to connect more with voters 

    “If he takes that and says, ‘I want to be the enterprise guy, and I want you to build your own prosperity,’ then that’s a compelling message,” Cudjoe noted. “If Alan is able to move that message away from just saying ‘become members,’ then he can have a clear path.”

    Cudjoe’s comments follow the official unveiling of UP Plus, the rebranded version of Kyerematen’s Movement for Change. The launch marks a new chapter for the former Trade and Industry Minister, who has positioned the UP Plus as a centrist, reform-oriented political alternative ahead of the 2028 general elections.

    At the launch, Chairman Abubakar Saddique Boniface described UP Plus as a platform for credible leadership and transformational governance, built on competence, inclusivity, and universal values.

    Alan Kyerematen, in his address, called the new political identity a “new dawn” for Ghana, promising to usher in a golden age of business-led economic transformation.

    The Movement for Change, led by Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, has officially transitioned into the United Party (UP Plus) after receiving approval from the Electoral Commission (EC). Party Chairman Abubakar Saddique Boniface stated that the unveiling represents the emergence of a new breed of political movement.

    “Today, we present to you the United Party or UP Plus. The UP Plus is a political organisation meant to bring real change to governance. We will make a difference because of our focus on universal values and respect for the leadership of competence. We are not just taking people to lead us, but people who are credible, competent, and have a vision,” he stated.

    Speaking at the unveiling event, Party leader Alan Kyerematen noted that the rebrand seeks to promote greater accountability, intensify the fight against corruption, and create prosperity for Ghanaians.

    “A new dawn that will bring about economic transformation, which will translate into massive job opportunities, usher in a golden age of business, and create prosperity for our country, Ghana.

    “A new dawn that will mobilise the collective strengths and talents of all Ghanaians for national development, irrespective of age, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.

    “A new dawn that will promote accountable and transparent governance and introduce a policy of zero tolerance for corruption. A new dawn that will at least protect the environment and promote sustainable development. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this is what underpins the establishment of the United Party,” he said.

    Mr. Kyerematen, who was once a staunch member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), parted ways with the party on Monday, September 25, 2023, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the superdelegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.

    The Movement for Change, now UP Plus, which Mr. Kyerematen described as youth-led, aims to address the country’s challenges. The party formed alliances with other political movements and has declared its intention to contest the 2024 elections.

    Mr. Kyerematen first resigned from the NPP in 2008 following attacks on his supporters after the NPP held its 2007 presidential primaries. He had been an active member of the NPP since its establishment in 1992. On Wednesday, September 12, 2024, Alan Kyerematen officially submitted his nomination to contest Ghana’s 2024 presidential elections as an independent candidate.

    In 2024, Mr. Kyerematen chose a youthful running mate, Kwame Owusu Danso (KOD), who doubles as a lawyer, broadcast journalist, and youth activist. After filing his nomination, Mr. Kyerematen reiterated his commitment to being a “transitional leader” dedicated to securing the future for Ghana’s younger generation.

    “I am fighting for the youth to have the opportunity to lead this country,” Kyerematen stated. He also pledged that 50% of his appointees would be drawn from the youth, a move aimed at promoting fresh perspectives and dynamic leadership in government.

    Central to his campaign is his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), which addresses the immediate needs of Ghanaians, particularly the youth. The GTP focuses on economic transformation, job creation, and national development, offering a roadmap for addressing unemployment and underemployment, key concerns for millions of young voters.

    His development agenda goes beyond mere job creation, incorporating industrial transformation and tourism infrastructure development with private sector partnerships. This vision, he argues, will create long-term economic stability and reduce Ghana’s dependence on external financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank, a reliance for which both the NPP and NDC have faced criticism in recent years.

    The Afrafranto Alliance, a coalition of civil society groups and grassroots movements, has rallied behind Kyerematen’s candidacy, reflecting growing frustration with the promises of the major political parties. Many of these groups are led by young activists who see in Kyerematen a leader capable of transcending party lines and focusing on the nation’s future.

    Mr. Kyerematen proposed governance reforms aimed at improving transparency and reducing political cronyism. These include replacing the Council of State with a Second Chamber and establishing an Anti-Corruption Czar with prosecutorial powers. His pledge to limit his administration to just 40 ministers also sets him apart from the more bloated administrations of the past.

    Unfortunately, Mr. Kojo Alan Kyerematen obtained 31,202 votes, representing 0.28%, in the 2024 general elections. The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, was crowned the winner. This made him the first leader in the Fourth Republic to return to office after serving a term.

  • Open letter to Minister for Health

    Open letter to Minister for Health

    Hospital laboratories play a central role in disease diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment outcomes. In general, laboratories play pivotal roles in disease surveillance, with the WHO estimating that about 60% to 80% of all clinical decisions, including those regarding diagnosis, treatment, and discharge, stem from outcomes of accurate and reliable laboratory investigations and data from these laboratories

    Despite its critical contribution to healthcare delivery, many public hospital laboratories in Ghana face significant financial and operational challenges. The lack of a dedicated funding mechanism for laboratory operations often leads to frequent shortages of reagents, malfunctioning equipment, and delayed diagnostic services. To address these challenges, there is an urgent need to establish a Hospital Laboratory Account modeled after the existing Hospital Pharmacy Account system

    Background and Context

    In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Ghana faced frequent shortages of essential medicines and significant inefficiencies in procurement. In response, the Ministry of Health (MOH) implemented the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF). Established in 1989 under the ‘cash-and-carry’ scheme, this initiative allowed health facilities to retain proceeds from drug sales to replenish their stock (3,4).

    The policy aimed to ensure the continuous availability of medicines while reducing reliance on central government budget allocations. Recognized as one of the most impactful interventions in the health sector, it has fostered self-sufficiency and made affordable medicines accessible to the average Ghanaian. The policy continues to operate under the National Health Insurance System (NHIS) to this day.

    Over the years, this mechanism has ensured a steady supply of drugs, improved accountability, and reduced dependence on central government funding (4,5). Public hospital laboratories continue to depend significantly on erratic budget allocations and donor funded programs, which frequently prove to be inadequate or delayed.

    The lack of a consistent financial framework hampers their ability to maintain operational efficiency and respond to diagnostic needs.

    The sense of professional embarrassment, moral and ethical frustration, and financial irony (given that laboratories are often seen as revenue generators for hospital facilities) substantially affects staff morale.

    Furthermore, it raises questions about institutional practices, especially considering the high level of training and expertise of Ghanaian Medical Laboratory Professionals.

    It is disheartening to hear the Ministry of Health suggest that outsourcing our laboratories to the highest bidders or relying on equipment placement and profit sharing alone with these hospitals will resolve Ghana’s health challenges, particularly as it attempts to separate the NHIS tariff for diagnostics.

    The case of the Taylor & Taylor Company Limited offers critical insights for the Hon. Minister.

    The first large-scale equipment placement initiative in the country was destined for failure due to a significant oversight, lacking a sustainable funding mechanism to ensure that the vendor would be compensated for their investment.

    Consequently, the funds generated from the equipment placement were diverted into a consolidated fund within the hospitals, which, as is often the case, was poorly managed and inadequately accounted for. To address these issues, the establishment of a Hospital Laboratory Account is essential.

    This initiative would enhance the efficiency, accountability, and sustainability of laboratory services within our institutions. Furthermore, it would effectively reduce diagnostic costs, modernize laboratory facilities, and equip them with the necessary tools, all of which align perfectly with the Ministry’s objectives (6,7).

    The Case for a Hospital Laboratory Account

    Establishing a Hospital Laboratory Account would enable laboratory units to generate, retain, and reinvest revenue from diagnostic services. Such a model, which is intended to follow the mechanisms of the Pharmacy account arrangement, would enhance efficiency, accountability, and sustainability of laboratory operations (8).

    The following are additional reasons why there is an urgent need for the creation of the account: Parliament of Ghana. Health Sector Reform and Sustainability Bill (Draft). Accra: Parliament;

    Sustainability of Laboratory Operations:

    Establishing a dedicated account will guarantee a continuous supply of essential reagents,

    consumables, and maintenance of equipment, independent of the often delayed central funding. This ring-fenced account, supported by legal provisions, would safeguard against political interference, even with changing government administrations.

    Unlike the current scenario, where a new government might replace existing contracts under the guise of “creating jobs for the boys,” this approach would prevent arbitrary shifts in staffing. It also avoids the risk of altering contractual agreements related to equipment placement at facilities or profit-sharing arrangements with facility management, which has been proposed by the ministry (9).

    Retooling and Infrastructure Upgrade:

    Funds accumulated through laboratory services could be used to procure modern diagnostic

    equipment, upgrade infrastructure, and improve service delivery. The recent direction by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, asking management to return funds that were used from the Revolving Drug Fund, is enough assurance that, should the Hospital Laboratory Account be created, there would be no opportunities for mismanagement, as has become the common practice of most hospitals (8,9,10).

    Enhanced Quality Assurance:

    Financial autonomy would allow laboratories to allocate resources to internal and external quality control programs, accreditation, and staff capacity building, ensuring standardization and reliability of laboratory results (8,9).

    Reduced Service Interruptions:

    With a revolving financial mechanism, laboratories can and would quickly respond to supply

    shortages, avoiding diagnostic service disruptions that affect patient care. It will also eliminate the levels of professional embarrassment, moral and ethical frustration, financial irony (considering laboratories remain the cash cow of hospital facilities), impact on staff morale and institutional reflection that are commonly witnessed in our healthcare facilities, considering the level of training and the pedigree of Ghanaian Medical Laboratory Professionals (comparable to only Nigeria in the sub region) (10).

    Improved Accountability and Financial Transparency:

    Like the pharmacy account, the laboratory account will promote transparency in revenue generation, procurement, and expenditure tracking (11).

    Support for National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS):

    By ensuring the timely provision of laboratory services, the account will enhance the strengthening of the NHIS implementation and hospital reimbursement processes (12)

    Alignment with Health System Strengthening Goals:

    Establishing this account would ensure alignment with the Ministry of Health’s agenda to build resilient health systems and strengthen diagnostic capacity across public hospitals (13).

    Legal and Policy Considerations

    While no specific Act currently mandates the establishment of a Hospital Laboratory Account, it can be instituted through policy directives from the Ministry of Health, similar to the Revolving Drug Fund. The framework could be integrated into existing hospital financial management systems and aligned with the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), to ensure accountability and transparency. Clear guidelines on fund management, approved expenditures, and signatory authority that safeguard the integrity of the account (14,15).

    Expected Outcomes of Establishing the Hospital Laboratory Account

    The funds from the Hospital Laboratory Account is expected to provide, among others:

     A sustainable funding source for routine and specialized laboratory services.

    A reduction in equipment downtime and an improved diagnostic turnaround time.

    An enhanced laboratory accreditation, quality assurance, and staff motivation.

    An increased public confidence in laboratory services within public hospitals and

    An improved data availability for disease surveillance and health planning (16).

    Conclusion and Recommendations

    In conclusion, the establishment of a Hospital Laboratory Account is not only necessary but urgent. The Hospital Pharmacy Account system has proven effective in sustaining medicine availability and promoting financial autonomy in Ghanaian hospitals (17).

    DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana

  • I have no reason to criticise Mahama’s 10-month-old government – Ken Agyapong

    I have no reason to criticise Mahama’s 10-month-old government – Ken Agyapong

    New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, business mogul and former Assin Central MP,  Kennedy Agyapong, has responded to purported critics concerning his seeming silence since the Mahama led administration took power. 

    Rumours began to swirl within political circles that the straight talking NPP flagbearer hopeful could be in bed with the Mahama administration as he seeks payments for government contracts he may have been handed in the recent past NPP administration, 

    Speaking during an interview on Spear FM, Damongo, Ken Agyapong stated emphatically that he won’t criticise Mahama and the government because he has no reason to do so.

    According to him, he has no basis to criticise President Mahama and his administration that is barely 10 months citing the need for fairness. He said,

    “I have heard they are saying I’m not attacking Mahama because government owes me and I want to be paid that is why I’m not attacking Mahama’s government. Ten months in government and what do you expect Mahama to do that you want me to criticise him? We have to be fair,” Kennedy Agyapong said.

    “Ten months, even if it was cassava you planted, it would not have been ready for harvesting”.

    While he acknowledge the need to call a spade a spade, he however, highlighted his commitment to focus on the primaries set for January 2026.

    “I won’t criticise Mahama, I’m focusing on my primaries – Ken Agyapong. I’m not saying that when there is something wrong we should not say, but me, I’m focusing on my primaries,” he emphasised.

    Meanwhile, Kennedy Agyapong, picked the first spot on the party’s just-concluded ballot.

    The exercise, conducted on Friday, October 10, was held to determine the order of names on the ballot paper ahead of the presidential election scheduled for January 31, 2026.

    So far, Kwabena Agyepong, former Vice President and 2024 Presidential Candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former MP for Assin Central Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and former Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr. Bryan Acheampong, had been cleared to campaign.

    Dr. Bryan Acheampong picked the second position, while Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia took the third position. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Kwabena Agyepong took the fourth and fifth positions, respectively.

    Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyapong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26.

    Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Wednesday, August 27. Former Food and Agric Minister Bryan Acheampong also filed his nomination forms.

    In a separate development, Global Info Analytics late September,  predicted that Dr Bawumia, would lead in the primaries against his competitors, particularly Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    However, in barely two weeks, the Pan-African civil society organisation, Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, has released its Phase Two survey on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s recent survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, which represents a 1.7 % point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    The former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB), trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The results of the survey carried out between July and October 2025 came from a sample of 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as a leading candidate in ten regions out of Ghana’s 16, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the Northern sector, thus with an advantage in the rest of the six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid.

    Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    Meanwhile, Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2028 general election against his closest contender, former Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders, i.e., former Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, secured 6%, Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, polled 5%, while former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyapong, registered 3%.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also leads decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicates that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

    Flagbearer aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, has picked the first spot on the party’s just concluded ballot.

    The exercise conducted today, Friday, October 10, was to determine who takes which number on the ballot paper ahead of the presidential election on January 31, 2026.

    So far, Kwabena Agyepong, former Vice President and 2024 Presidential Candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, have been cleared to campaign.

  • QNET victims: EOCO rescues 16 Ghanaians, 10 Ivorians in a joint human trafficking operation, apprehends suspects

    QNET victims: EOCO rescues 16 Ghanaians, 10 Ivorians in a joint human trafficking operation, apprehends suspects

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), in a joint operation on Friday, October 17, busted a human trafficking syndicate operated mainly by Ghanaians and Ivorians.

    In a statement shared the same day, the crime intelligence agency announced that following the raid, it had successfully rescued 26 victims of human trafficking, comprising sixteen (16) Ghanaians and ten (10) Ivorians.

    These nationals had fallen victim to job opportunity scams run by individuals posing as recruitment agents for QNET, a multinational company known for its wellness and lifestyle products.

    The operation, dubbed “Operation Quest,” was conducted by EOCO’s Anti-Human Trafficking Unit in collaboration with QNET, around 10:30 a.m.

    “The operation, code-named Operation Quest, followed intelligence that some foreigners and Ghanaians had been trafficked under the guise of employment with the QNET Company — a reputable organisation that trades in wellness and lifestyle products.

    The suspects include two (2) Ivorians and seven (7) Ghanaians, while the victims were made up of ten (10) Ivorians and sixteen (16) Ghanaians,” the statement noted.

    The organisation clarified that these individuals had no legitimate ties to the company and were exploiting QNET’s reputation to carry out their illicit activities.

    “All nine (9) suspects are currently in the custody of EOCO to assist in investigations,” parts of the statement added.

    EOCO cautioned the public against falling for such scams and advised that all reports of employment offers purportedly from QNET be directed to the appropriate authorities. It also reminded the public that the company is working to restore its reputation, which has suffered due to impersonation by groups and agencies using its name for fraudulent recruitment schemes.

    “EOCO wishes to advise the general public to report all cases of individuals and groups who claim to be agents of QNET who can provide job opportunities at the company, either in Ghana or abroad.

    In July this year, EOCO and QNET signed a joint MoU to clamp down on criminal actors using the name of QNET to traffic persons,” the statement continued.

    EOCO further emphasised its commitment to protecting the public from organised crime and encouraged anyone with relevant information to contact the office directly via its official channels.

    Meanwhile, barely two months ago, the Ghana Police, in a collaborative intelligence-aided operation with the operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, rescued twenty (20) Ghanaians who were trafficked to the Uyo Local Government Area of Abia State.

    The twenty included 10 females and 10 males, all confirmed to be Ghanaian nationals.

    The rescue was announced by the command’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), DSP Timfon John, in a statement in Uyo on Wednesday.

    In the statement, she disclosed that the rescue operation was undertaken following an official request for assistance from the Ghana Police Service and INTERPOL.

    “On August 18, 2025, operatives of the command successfully rescued 20 Ghanians trafficked to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

    ‘’The human trafficking victims were rescued from a compound in Obio Etoi village, Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, after an operation that was a collaborative effort following a formal request for assistance from the Ghana Police Service and INTERPOL, she revealed adding that “the raid led to the rescue of 10 males and 10 females (names withheld), all confirmed to be Ghanaian nationals,” the statement read.

    The victims who were rescued in a well-fenced building around 4 pm, John revealed, appeared disoriented and unable to speak. Investigators believe their orientation and countenance suggest potential hypnotism hence their inability to assist with investigations.

    “Acting on credible information, operatives surrounded a well-fenced building at approximately 1617 hours on Monday, August 18, 2025

    ‘’The victims presently appear disoriented and have been unable to provide useful information, leading investigators to suspect they might have been hypnotised”, John added.

    However, investigations are underway “…and further developments will be communicated to the public as they become available,’’ the statement added.

    The Nigerian Police supported Operation mark about the third rescue operation successfully carried out by the Ghana Police Service this year.

    About four months ago, a group of two hundred and two (202) Ghanaians who were lured with fake promises such as lucrative job opportunities in foreign countries by a human trafficking and scam syndicate, Q-Net (QuestNet International), operating in Nigeria, were rescued and repatriated, according to Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

    “The traffickers lure unsuspecting compatriots under the pretext of facilitating their travel to France or other European countries for lucrative job opportunities”, he said.

    Also, in a separate development, Ghana Police, in a joint operation with the International Police (INTERPOL), launched a crack down on scammers in the country, arresting sixty-eight suspected individuals involved in romance scams and sextortion.

    In a release shared by INTERPOL on its official website, the international security agency revealed that the operation, dubbed Operation Contender 3.0 and funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office under the African Joint Operation against Cybercrime project, discovered that these criminal syndicates caused USD 450,000 in financial losses, with USD 70,000 recovered in cash.

    “Ghanaian authorities arrested 68 individuals, seized 835 devices and identified 108 victims. Their investigations revealed USD 450,000 in financial losses, with USD 70,000 recovered,” excerpts of the statement revealed.

    According to INTERPOL, the operation was targeted at criminal networks exploiting social media and dating platforms to carry out romance scams and sextortion.

    “The crackdown targeted transnational criminal networks exploiting digital platforms, particularly social media, to manipulate victims and defraud them financially. Specifically, the operation focused on romance scams, where perpetrators build online relationships to extract money from victims, and sextortion, in which victims are blackmailed with explicit images or videos,” the statement said.

    INTERPOL explained: “…For romance scams, the suspects had used fake profiles, forged identities and stolen images to deceive victims. The scammers extracted payments using a range of schemes, including fake courier and customs shipment fees. In sextortion cases, offenders secretly recorded intimate videos during explicit chats and used them for blackmail.”

  • Grenada open to employing Ghanaian nurses in new MoU with govt

    Grenada open to employing Ghanaian nurses in new MoU with govt

    The looming unemployment crisis in Ghana’s health sector is anticipated to be mitigated as Grenada expresses interest in employing some nurses and other allied healthcare professionals.

    This comes after the two countries, Ghana and Grenada, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the recruitment of Ghanaian nurses to work in Grenada in an agreement which seeks to strengthen the healthcare systems of both countries while promoting cultural exchange and knowledge sharing in the medical field.

    Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, signed the agreement on behalf of Ghana, while his Grenadian counterpart, Joseph Andall, signed on behalf of Grenada, during Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dickon Mitchell’s visit to the Presidency on Friday, October 17.

    President John Dramani Mahama, in a speech on Friday, October 17, during a state visit by Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell at the Presidency in Accra, lauded the international recognition of Ghanaian health care professionals and the benefits the agreement stands to bring to both countries. 

    He said, “In the health sector, Grenada’s interest in recruiting Ghanaian nurses and allied health professionals presents a valuable opportunity for structured collaboration between our two countries. Ghanaian health workers have gained international recognition for their professionalism and their compassion. And we’re keen to explore arrangements that address both our national needs and Grenada’s health priorities.

    He added, “I’m pleased that just yesterday, Thursday, October 16, our Foreign Minister, the Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Honourable Joseph Andall, Foreign Minister of Grenada, co-chaired the inaugural session of the Ghana-Grenada Political Consultations. I’m confident that this mechanism will produce practical outcomes that deepen political, economic, and cultural engagements between our two nations.”

    The signing of the MoU comes just days after the Health Minister, Mintah Akandoh raised concerns about the balooning and looming unemployment crisis the sector is anticipated to face citing governments efforts to deal with the challenge.

    Early this month, a group of nurses and midwives, who identify as the Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives, took to the streets to protest over unpaid salaries for the last 10 months since their posting in December 2024.

    The Health Ministry responded to their request, promising to settle all arrears by next month.

    Speaking on the challenges facing employment in Ghana’s health sector, Mr Akandoh, during an appearance on The Point of View on Channel One TV on Wednesday, October 15, revealed that as more health practitioners graduate each year, the unemployment rate within the sector continues to rise.

    He said if measures aren’t taken immediately, Ghana could have as many as 180,000 unemployed trained health professionals by the end of 2028.

    According to the Minister, the current number of unemployed health workers stands at around 74,000. However, with thousands more graduating each year, the figure is expected to more than double within the next three years.

    “By the end of 2026, we will have an additional 23,000. By the end of 2027, we will have an additional 35,000. By the end of 2028, we will have about 47,000. So by the end of 2028, if we don’t employ anybody, this 74,000 is still outstanding — we will have not less than 180,000 trained and they will be at home,” he said.

    In light of this, he detailed that the government is working on a recruitment strategy, including collaborations with other international bodies and countries to ship them out in a policy called “managed migration”. Thirteen (13) countries have so far responded; however, most of them prefer to work with specialists.

    “So there is a strategy going forward. What we are seeking to do now is that gradually, the government will be employing some of them as we move along,” he said.“We are also looking at what we call managed migration, how we will be able to export some of them. About 13 countries have responded, but the difficulty is that most of these countries that have responded need a specialist,” he added.

    He also revealed that Ghana would need not less than GHS6 billion annually to clear the existing backlog of unemployed health professionals.

    The comments come amid growing pressure from unemployed nurses and midwives demanding placement, and criticism from the Minority in Parliament over how the government is handling health sector employment.

    Ranking Member on the Health Committee speaking during a media engagement, stated that, “there is no need for Cabinet to approve anything. Again, there’s no need for this clearance. The government should come and tell the people the truth.”

    The Minority accused the government of taking health workers for granted, saying their patience had run out.

    They emphasized that financial clearance for 15,000 health workers was already secured under the previous NPP administration in July 2024.

    About 8,000 of those workers were paid, and the remaining 7,000 should have been paid as well , especially since they were posted before the December 2024 handover.

    However, Mr Akandoh, during his interview with Channel One’s Bernard Avle, stated that the previous administration led by Akufo-Addo did not make any budget for the over 13,000 nurses they recruited.

    The Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, has stated that the salary delays affecting thousands of nurses, teachers, and junior doctors are due to lapses under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, October 8, Dr. Pelpuo blamed the NPP’s poor recruitment practices and fiscal indiscipline for the current plight of nurses and doctors.

    “The situation is currently unfair, but it is a culmination of events that took place in the last regime before the current regime took over. People were engaged to work without due process. For you to work and be paid, you need clearance to show that there is money in the account and that your employment has been approved. That didn’t happen in this respect,” he said.

    Ghana, in recent times, has witnessed several protests from government employees, specifically, teachers, nurses, and doctors. According to him, the former government handed over a poorly planned budget that didn’t make room to pay nurses, teachers, and doctors.

    As such, he called the protesting groups to call for calm as the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration will work to rectify the situation.

    “We are taking it up very seriously, and I can assure the nurses, teachers, and junior doctors who are caught up in the process that we are going to respond to them before the end of the year,” he stated.

  • We are ready – Private schools declare as they welcome 25,000 students under free SHS

    We are ready – Private schools declare as they welcome 25,000 students under free SHS

    Private senior high schools participating in the government’s pilot Free SHS expansion programme have declared their readiness to receive the first batch of students who have gained admission into their schools, effective Monday.

    During an appearance on Friday, October 17, the Spokesperson for the Conference of Heads of Private Second Cycle Schools (CHOPSS), Naphtali Kyei-Baffour, mentioned that approximately 25,000 students are expected to report to the seventy (70) schools participating in the nationwide pilot programme on Monday.

    He added that some students have already visited their schools to collect their prospectuses and complete registration ahead of full enrolment on Monday.

    “Yes, indeed, we are expecting several students to report to the SHSs. That is the 70 that are part of the piloting system we are doing. We are expecting to receive almost 25,000 of them. Some of them have started coming to collect their prospectus and are ready to join, just as they have been posted. We are ready — in terms of facilities, preparedness, and everything, we are ready to receive them. We are expecting that they come to the various schools from Monday,” he said.

    The expansion of the Free SHS programme to private schools forms part of the government’s efforts to ease congestion in public senior high schools and also gradually phase out the double-track system, which was introduced by the erstwhile government.

     According to the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, it is a fulfilment of the government’s manifesto promise, adding that it is a step to ensure eligible students gain admission without delays.

    The double-track system was introduced in 2018 by the erstwhile government to accommodate the surge in student enrollment due to the Free SHS policy, addressing overcrowding in public schools. Under this system, students were divided into two groups, Green Track and Gold Track, attending school in shifts, with one track in session while the other was on break.

    Executive Director of GNACOPS, Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, recently stated that parents who opt to board their wards in these schools will pay the difference between the government’s contribution and the school’s boarding fees citing thaqt the pilot involves only day stuents.

    “For now, the pilot covers only day students, with government paying GH₵994 per child enrolled in participating private schools,” he clarified.

    This was after the Ministry of Education had announced plans to pay GH₵994 annually for each student placed in private senior high schools under the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme.

    “Government is committed to providing a stipend to support the transition of students moving into private schools. That figure is negotiable, but for a start, this is the commitment we are making for this pilot inclusion.”

    This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry and the Conference of Heads of Private Second Cycle Schools, marking a new phase in the inclusion of selected private institutions in the national Free SHS policy.

    Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu explained that the move is part of the government’s strategy to ensure equitable access to quality education in both public and private institutions. 

    President of CHOPSS, I.K. Mensah, has welcomed the initiative and indicated that discussions are ongoing to expand the programme and possibly revise the funding structure in future phases.

    The Free Senior High School policy was introduced in 2017 by the Akufo-Addo-led government to make secondary education accessible to all eligible students without financial barriers.

    The policy was aimed at helping students who struggled to pay tuition, boarding, and other school-related expenses. However, the policy came with its challenges, such as overcrowding and congestion in schools, pressure on infrastructure and facilities, and increased pressure on teachers.

    This increased the number of enrollments in the senior high schools that were listed under the Free SHS policy. About 3.5 million students have benefited from the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program since its launch.

    The immediate-past government revealed that it had spent over GH¢12 billion on the implementation of the Free SHS policy since its inception. Meanwhile, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has urged a reassessment of Ghana’s Free SHS initiative, recommending that households with sufficient means contribute financially so that government support can be directed toward students in real need.

    During a meeting with Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, the Asantehene suggested a shared funding model, akin to previous arrangements where financial aid was granted to bright but disadvantaged students, while those with the ability to pay covered their own expenses.

    “Those who can afford to pay, let’s have a second look at the policy. If someone can afford it, let’s allow them to pay. In the old times, when you passed, the bursary would look for good but needy students and award them scholarships, and those who could afford to pay did so.”

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has recognised the positive impact of the Free SHS policy but stressed the importance of a national discussion to tackle its shortcomings and secure its future.

    “This Free SHS we are talking about, although we have implemented it, if we have a dialogue and find out that it will result in students coming home now and then because there is no food, then it is not fit for purpose.”

    He also pointed out several pressing concerns affecting secondary schools, including overcrowded dormitories, a lack of well-equipped science and ICT laboratories, irregular food supplies, and insufficient school buses.

    “Our dormitories are overcrowded and lack science and ICT labs. Sometimes, PTA makes contributions to support. The lack of school buses and the shortage of food should all be looked at. Let us implement it well so that students will stay in school and have enough to eat.”

  • FIFA rankings: Ghana move 2 spots up after impressive World Cup display

    FIFA rankings: Ghana move 2 spots up after impressive World Cup display

    The last FIFA ranking, which was released about a month ago, placed Ghana a spot higher, from 76th to 75th, following the Black Stars’ matches against Mali and Chad. The team earned three extra points from those games.

    They have now moved two places in the latest FIFA World Ranking, following their last performance in the qualifiers. The four-time African champions now sit 73rd in the world after a successful October international window.

    Despite this progress on the global stage, Ghana remain 14th in Africa. In July, Ghana’s Black Stars fell about six places in FIFA’s rankings at the time.

    This was after 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 ranking released on July 10, Ghana ranked 76th in the FIFA World Rankings. 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 July ranking, Argentina still held its spot as number one, followed by Spain, France, and then England, with Brazil taking the fifth spot.

    In Africa, Morocco sat on top with its 12th position on the global level with 1,698.72 points. Senegal also moved a spot up from its 19th position last year. Egypt dropped to 34 on the global scale but remained 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 the 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.

    Meanwhile, Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    While they look forward to finding out who their group-stage opponents will be when the official draw is held on December 5, they will embark on an Asian tour to face South Korea and Japan as part of their preparations for the World Cup next year.

    This was officially announced by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) on October 9, in a press release following Ghana’s 5–0 victory over the Central African Republic.

    The first clash is scheduled for November 14 in Toyota as part of the prestigious Kirin Cup, against Japan, before they travel to Seoul to face South Korea three days later, on November 17.

    Both Japan and South Korea have already booked their places at the 2026 World Cup and are expected to field full-strength lineups, providing Ghana with a crucial test ahead of next year’s continental and global competitions.

    The Asian tour forms part of the Ghana Football Association’s broader plan to give coach Otto Addo the platform to evaluate his squad and fine-tune tactics before the global showpiece.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    President Mahama cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

    Referring to an unforgettable situation in the history of Ghana football, where Asamoah’s penalty miss cost Ghana’s place in the semi-finals, he urged the team,

    “We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco by going beyond the semi-finals and, who knows, with fingers crossed, bring the World Cup trophy home to make Ghana and Africa proud”.

    He further went on to call on Ghanaians to support the team without any bias.

    “We must all rally behind the Black Stars. We must support them to the hilt. Let’s not bring in any partisan or ethnic considerations. Let’s give them our full support,” he added.

    Otto Addo has hinted that, based on the team’s current ranking by the global football governing body, FIFA, Ghana is likely to face strong opponents at next year’s tournament.

    Speaking to Citi Sports ahead of the tournament draw on December 5, Addo stated that “I know that at the moment Ghana is not ranked high, so probably we will get a tough group, so we have to expect that we get tougher opponents in our group and we have to deal with it,” the 49-year-old added.

    However, Addo remained optimistic, citing his excitement about the team’s prospects and commitment to conquering the group stage.

    “We will see what we will get, and I’m excited about that. For me, the most important thing is to overcome the group stage,” he added.

    With this qualification, Addo has become the first coach in Ghanaian football history to lead the Black Stars to consecutive World Cup appearances, having guided the team to the 2022 edition in Qatar.

    In a separate interview, Otto Addo has responded to growing concerns regarding his player selection for the global football tournament, the FIFA 2026 World Cup.

    Speaking during an interview with 3Sports, which was aired on Tuesday, October 15, Otto Addo explicitly stated that players who have ignored their calls despite continuous efforts from the national team’s technical staff since 2021 should not expect any call-up now that the Black Stars have secured their ticket to the World Cup.

    “We will look at each case one by one. There are players I have been chasing since 2021, who didn’t reply to our calls or want to come. It’s a different thing if we haven’t approached you and now you want to come. But if we have been approaching you all the way and you said no, and now we are at the World Cup, so you want to come, that’s a different matter,” Addo said.

    His remarks follow reports that Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah are considering switching allegiance to play for Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    On his part, unity and commitment from and among the players have played a significant role in the team’s performance, hence the need to check a player’s commitment before giving them an opportunity.

    “I think Ghana should always have a certain pride. As a country, we need to check the commitment of each player. We have very good unity, and we don’t want to destroy it by bringing in players who don’t commit,” he added.

  • 2026 WC: Otto Addo hints Ghana likely to face tough opponents at group stage

    2026 WC: Otto Addo hints Ghana likely to face tough opponents at group stage

    President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    This comes after Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    However, Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has hinted that, based on the team’s current ranking by the global football governing body, FIFA, Ghana is likely to face strong opponents at next year’s tournament.

    Speaking to Citi Sports ahead of the tournament draw on December 5, Addo stated that “I know that at the moment Ghana is not ranked high, so probably we will get a tough group, so we have to expect that we get tougher opponents in our group and we have to deal with it,” the 49-year-old added. 

    However, Addo remained optimistic, citing his excitement about the team’s prospects and commitment to conquering the group stage.

    “We will see what we will get, and I’m excited about that. For me, the most important thing is to overcome the group stage,” he added.

    With this qualification, Addo has become the first coach in Ghanaian football history to lead the Black Stars to consecutive World Cup appearances, having guided the team to the 2022 edition in Qatar.

    In a separate interview, Otto Addo has responded to growing concerns regarding his player selection for the global football tournament, the FIFA 2026 World Cup.

    Speaking during an interview with 3Sports, which was aired on Tuesday, October 15, Otto Addo explicitly stated that players who have ignored their calls despite continuous efforts from the national team’s technical staff since 2021 should not expect any call-up now that the Black Stars have secured their ticket to the World Cup.

    “We will look at each case one by one. There are players I have been chasing since 2021, who didn’t reply to our calls or want to come. It’s a different thing if we haven’t approached you and now you want to come. But if we have been approaching you all the way and you said no, and now we are at the World Cup, so you want to come, that’s a different matter,” Addo said.

    His remarks follow reports that Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah are considering switching allegiance to play for Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    On his part, unity and commitment from and among the players have played a significant role in the team’s performance, hence the need to check a player’s commitment before giving them an opportunity.

    “I think Ghana should always have a certain pride. As a country, we need to check the commitment of each player. We have very good unity, and we don’t want to destroy it by bringing in players who don’t commit,” he added.

    About Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah

    Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah are both English-born footballers of Ghanaian descent. Hudson-Odoi plays for Nottingham Forest, while Nketiah plays for Crystal Palace.

    News about their joining Black Star surfaced around 2021-2023; however, it died out after reports of the players’ request for more time to ponder over the offer and make a decision.

    However, this month, it was reported that, following Ghana’s heavy win against the Central African Republic, these players have expressed their readiness to join the team in Ghana.

    Nketiah, during an appearance on The Beautiful Game podcast openly declared, “If Ghana invites me, then I’ll be there.”

    Oddoi, on the other hand, in June 2021, ahead of the 2022 World Cup, was allegedly contacted by the Ghana FA officials about switching allegiance. Soon after, he visited Ghana that summer, and he met with President Akufo-Addo and Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif, who urged him to consider playing for the Black Stars, but Hudson-Odoi did not commit.

    Subsequently, in November 2021, Oddoi, during a BBC Interview “I think obviously when you’re young and you’ve played for England, that’s something that you’re always proud of… but I feel like Ghana is my home as well.”

    He added that he was “open to anything” and would make a decision when the time was right.

    Also, Hudson-Odoi did not respond to Ghana’s invitations for AFCON 2023 qualifiers. But Ghana FA President Kurt Okraku confirmed in early 2023 that Hudson-Odoi had been contacted but had not completed the FIFA nationality switch.

    While they look forward to finding out who their group-stage opponents will be when the official draw is held on December 5, they will embark on an Asian tour to face South Korea and Japan as part of their preparations for the World Cup next year.

    This was officially announced by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) on October 9, in a press release following Ghana’s 5–0 victory over the Central African Republic.

    The first clash is scheduled for November 14 in Toyota as part of the prestigious Kirin Cup, against Japan, before they travel to Seoul to face South Korea three days later, on November 17.

    Both Japan and South Korea have already booked their places at the 2026 World Cup and are expected to field full-strength lineups, providing Ghana with a crucial test ahead of next year’s continental and global competitions.

    The Asian tour forms part of the Ghana Football Association’s broader plan to give coach Otto Addo the platform to evaluate his squad and fine-tune tactics before the global showpiece.

  • Otto Addo still Ghana’s coach – Randy Abbey responds to dismissal claims

    Otto Addo still Ghana’s coach – Randy Abbey responds to dismissal claims

    Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, Dr Randy Abbey, has intimated that Black Stars head coach Otoo Addo remains the team’s coach, stressing that “his employers have not said they are done with him”.

    Otto Addo’s second coming as a Black Stars head coach was met with mixed reactions. While some supported him as the most familiar to handle the team, others questioned his maturity, his tactical prowess, especially after the Black Stars’ group-stage exit at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)2022 under his leadership.

    However, his recent record as the first coach in Ghana’s football history to oversee the team’s qualification to the world’s biggest football tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, twice, has sparked some confidence from fans about his competency, as well as questions surrounding his long-term future due to his inconsistencies in performances.

    In reaction, Dr Abbey, speaking during an engagement with Asempa FM, acknowledged the public’s concerns but stated that, as it stands, the employers of the former Dortmund coach haven’t expressed their disinterest in Otto Addo’s role as head coach, hence the need to shift all focus on celebrating the feat he has attained.

    “From the time we came in, look at the statistics. Otto Addo is the head coach of the Black Stars, and that has not changed. I don’t have any issues with the ongoing discussions. He has a contract, and his contract has not ended. His employers have not said they are done with him. He has qualified for the World Cup, and he must be celebrated for that, but every Ghanaian deserves to have an opinion, and Otto Addo remains the Black Stars coach,” Dr Abbey said.

    Responding to a question about whether the committee had identified any weaknesses within Addo’s technical set-up, Dr Abbey replied, “Except God, everyone has weaknesses.”

    The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, earlier noted that the dismissal of Otto Addo is not a solo decision he can make, but several factors will need to be considered before a decision about the coach’s future is made.

    “If you listen to Otto Addo on the team, he said he will try a lot of legs to know who will go or not, but I believe the management and everybody who is involved in hiring the coach will consider a lot of factors,” “I pay him, but it is not my decision alone. The GFA has a role to play, and it is not about this or not and going forward, we will have all these conversations,” Mr Adams said during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

    The Minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency, emphasised that Addo remains the head coach and deserves full support from all Ghanaians.

    Ivory Coast sacked their coach during AFCON, and their assistant coach, Emerse Faé, led them to win the AFCON. If you are determined, you will bring success. At this moment, he is our coach, and we have to support him.”

    Meanwhile, Otto Addo has reacted to questions surrounding his future with the team.

    Ahead of Ghana’s final game for the 2026 World Cup clash with Comoros, in an interview with the Ghana FA website, the former Dortmund talent coach intimated that his focus is to make Ghanaians happy and not to worry about keeping his job, a situation he has no control over.

    “What happens after is not in my hands. I hope that a lot of people, if we win, can go to America. We have to win this game. This is what we are looking at. If Ghanaians are happy, then we are happy,” he said.

    Ghana will discover their group-stage opponents for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on December 5. FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    In a congratulatory message shared via video on the football governing body’s Instagram, Infantino praised the four-time African champions for their achievement and expressed excitement about their return to the world stage.

    “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

    “We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

    “See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”

    Ghana’s qualification marks their fifth appearance at the World Cup, following previous campaigns in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022. Among African nations, only Cameroon (8), Morocco (7), Tunisia (7), and Nigeria (6) have made more appearances on the world stage.

    The Black Stars accrued 25 points after their final World Cup qualifier. Initially sitting in third place after two rounds of matches, Ghana began their campaign against Madagascar on November 17, 2023, securing a 1–0 home victory on Matchday 1, before suffering a 1–0 away loss to Comoros on Matchday 2, November 21, 2023. The team bounced back strongly on March 21, delivering a convincing 4–0 win over Chad.

    This set the tone for another win against Madagascar on March 24. Ghana defeated Madagascar 3–0 in Morocco, with a brace from Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus bringing the team’s points to 15. They remained atop the group until their last game on October 12.

    Also, President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher, beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    President Mahama cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

  • Era of protocol, ‘who you know’ recruitment style won’t be tolerated under this NDC government  – Asiedu Nketiah

    Era of protocol, ‘who you know’ recruitment style won’t be tolerated under this NDC government  – Asiedu Nketiah

    Receruitment into the Ghana Forces (GAF) is currently underway since the service opened their portal on the first day of this month, October 1 with a decentralised regional enlistment style. Recruitment is now being conducted at the regional level, with the enlistment exercise taking place across all sixteen (16) regions nationwide.

    Addressing party supporters in the Akatsi North Constituency on Thursday, October 16, as part of his thank-you tour, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, reiterated the party’s commitment to fairness in public recruitment.

    He noted that the long-standing practice of politically driven recruitment, commonly referred to as the ‘who-you-know’ system, where people are enlisted based on their surnames or political affiliation — will not be condoned under the Mahama-led administration.

    This he said forms part of government’s effort to attain “security institutions are properly balanced; not just balanced, but very balanced” encouraging all interested personnels to apply.

    He said the proposed reforms are aimed at restoring professionalism, equity, and regional balance within the country’s security institutions.

    “We are departing from a system where people were recruited based on their surnames, where one’s name determined their chances of selection. We are doing away with that and making sure our security services are truly representative and fair.

    “All future recruitment will now take place at the regional level. We have already started with the Armed Forces, and very soon, the other security agencies will open their portals for registration. I encourage those of you who consider yourselves capable to do well to apply”he said.

    Meanwhile, GFA on Monday, September 29, issued a statement signed by Acting Director General for Public Relations, Veronica Afei Arjun announcing the opening of their recruitment portal.

    According to GAF, recruitment announcements will be made through its official website and Ghana’s two main state-owned national newspapers.

    “The enlistment/recruitment exercise will be announced through the official Ghana Armed Forces platforms such as gafonline.mil.gh, gafrecruitment.mil.gh, in addition to the Daily Graphic and the Ghanaian Times newspapers,” GAF noted.

    GAF also warned the public to disregard recruitment advertisements circulating on social media, stressing that no member of the force would issue such notices or ads.

    “The general public is kindly informed that any purported recruitment links on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp or any other social media platforms inviting people for protocol recruitment are a scam and should be ignored. Additionally, no such enlistment/recruitment invitation will emanate from any member of the Ghana Armed Forces or its High Command and should be ignored as well,” it added. “The Ghana Armed Forces counts on the cooperation of the general public in this endeavour.”

    The strong warning comes against the backdrop of fraudulent recruitment schemes that have increased in recent years, particularly on social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. These scams often promise “protocol recruitment,” suggesting backdoor access in exchange for payment.

    Scammers typically impersonate senior officers, circulate fake enlistment links, and demand fees in return for guaranteed placement.

    Over the years, some scammers have demanded protocol fees ranging from GH¢2,000 to GH¢10,000, depending on the promises made and the desperation of applicants. Victims often paid multiple instalments, believing they were securing officer roles or fast-tracked enlistment.

    Payments were usually made in cash or through mobile money without receipts, making prosecution difficult. GAF has repeatedly stressed that recruitment is free and that any demand for payment is illegal.

    In a Facebook post on September 29, Deputy Defence Minister Brogya Genfi revealed that the government is set to recruit about twelve thousand (12,000) personnel to strengthen the country’s defence. He further disclosed that the cost of recruitment forms has been slashed by 40 percent to ensure wider access and fairness.

    “The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is undergoing a massive expansion beginning this week. Over the next 3 years, GAF will recruit 12,000 personnel to reinforce our national defence capabilities. In line with H.E. the President and Commander-in-Chief John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to affordability, accessibility and fairness, the cost of the recruitment forms has been reduced by over 40% compared to the last recruitment,” the Minister said.

    He stressed that the recruitment process remains free of charge and cautioned against fraud.

    “Let this be clear: Recruitment into the Ghana Armed Forces is NOT for sale, and will NEVER be for sale under our #EagleEyes watch. Any individual or syndicate involved in fraudulent recruitment schemes will be dealt with without mercy. Take Note that no recruitment will take place on social media. The process will be transparent and professional,” he emphasised.

    The Minister also cautioned prospective applicants to be ready for the demands of military life.

    “All qualified applicants must be medically fit and be prepared to abandon all hope of normal life! We are building a force that reflects the strength, discipline, and unity of Ghana,” he concluded.

  • NSA scandal: Assibey Antwi, Gifty Oware to make first court appearance today

    NSA scandal: Assibey Antwi, Gifty Oware to make first court appearance today

    Former Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi, and his deputy, Gifty Oware, will make their first court appearance today, Friday, 17th October.

    This comes after the duo were formally charged earlier this week by the Attorney General for allegedly stealing and causing financial losses to the state.

    Osei Assibey Antwi has been slapped with fourteen serious charges.

    The accusations include causing financial loss to the Republic, with the main charge suggesting that he approved payments of allowances to over 60,000 ghost national service personnel, leading to a total loss of GH¢500,861,744.02.

    He is additionally charged with several counts of theft amounting to GH¢8,256,000, said to have occurred between August 2023 and May 2024.

    Prosecutors say Mr Antwi diverted project funds, authorizing the withdrawal of GH¢106 million from the NSA’s Kumawu Farm Project account on five different occasions without using any of it for the intended purpose.

    The state also contends that he engaged in money laundering by transferring GH¢8.26 million into his personal e-zwich account and taking control of the funds despite knowing they were criminal proceeds.

    In total, the alleged offences connected to Mr. Antwi are valued at approximately GH¢615,117,744.02.

    Gifty Oware-Mensah, on the other hand, has been charged with five offences, including Stealing, Willfully Causing Financial Loss, Using Public Office for Profit, and Money Laundering.

    Court documents indicate that Oware-Mensah, who managed the Finance and Procurement units of the NSA, allegedly masterminded a sophisticated scheme centred on the Authority’s “marketplace” platform, a system intended to offer hire-purchase services to national service personnel.

    Prosecutors claim she gained control of a private entity, Blocks of Life Consult, and created a list of 9,934 fictitious names within the NSA database.

    She is said to have then approached the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), falsely asserting that her company had supplied goods to those ghost beneficiaries and required a loan, using their fake allowances as collateral.

    This deception allegedly led to a loan arrangement between ADB and the NSA, which resulted in GH¢31.5 million being paid directly into her company’s account. Of that amount, she is accused of transferring over GH¢22.9 million to another company where she also served as a director.

    Investigations revealed that no goods were ever delivered to any service personnel.Her actions, with interest included, are alleged to have cost the state a total of GH¢38,458,248.87.

    A couple of months ago, Attorney-General (A-G) and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, revealed that eight individuals, including three former officers of the National Service Authority (NSA), had admitted to their involvement in the misappropriation of funds at the National Service Scheme (NSS).

    Providing an update on the case as part of the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 28, Dr. Ayine disclosed that eight individuals want to plead guilty in exchange for lighter punishment in this regard.

    He explained that the office intended to file formal charges last week; however, it has been postponed following new revelations regarding the ongoing case.

    The new evidence, he noted, is tied to a Bank of Ghana account linked to former NSA Director-General, Mr. Osei Assibey, suggesting potential embezzlement involving public funds.

    According to him, a total of GH¢189 million was deposited into the account of Mr. Osei Assibey; however, GH¢80 million can not be accounted for.

    Furthermore, nearly GH¢2 million was allegedly withdrawn using two cheques that carried Mr. Assibey’s name and account information.

    The A-G has stated that the office has reached out to the Bank of Ghana, the Ministry of Finance, and the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department for further information and documentation.“The National Service Authority scandal case was due to be filed last week. However, we stumbled upon evidence of malfeasance involving an account at the Bank of Ghana.“Out of the GH¢189 million transferred, GH¢80 million cannot be traced. Two cheques linked to the former Director-General were used to withdraw just under GH¢2 million,” Dr. Ayine stated.

    He added that some of the accused have shown readiness to provide testimony against their fellow accused, with several vendors and service providers also reportedly willing to support the prosecution as witnesses.Earlier this year, a non-profit investigative body, The Fourth Estate, released a report into the payroll records from 2017 to 2023 and the 2024 National Service Year.

    The finding revealed serious irregularities within the NSA, uncovering how a 72-year-old Kenyan, Kwame Donkor, was wrongly listed as a beneficiary. Mr Donkor was enlisted on the payroll with a photo and not an official ID card, which is unusual.

    However, the photo belonged to Emmanuel Mutio, a Human Resource Manager at a private IT company in Kenya. The 72-year-old Kenyan had his name appear on the payroll 226 times as a registered beneficiary.

    The Fourth Estate initially uncovered the issue in November 2024, but the NSA obtained a court order preventing them from publishing the findings.

    After the court lifted the injunction, the report was finally released. In response, President John Dramani Mahama ordered a probe into the matter.

    The NIB, upon the President’s directive, interrogated the former Deputy Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah, and Kwaku Ohene Djan, who is also a former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority.

    The payroll fraud reportedly costs Ghana GHȼ50 million monthly. In May, the Authority interdicted two of its officials in the Brim North District, Eastern Region.

    Meanwhile, a new posting and management system designed to automate allowance payments and eliminate ghost names from the national service payroll has been introduced by the National Service Authority (NSA).

    Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, Ruth Dela Seddoh, said, the enhanced digital platform integrates directly with Ghana’s national identification database to verify personnel identities and ages against tertiary institution records, effectively eliminating ghost names and duplicate entries.

    He told the media on Tuesday, October 7, the system introduces end-to-end automation, from posting to allowance processing, to ensure only verified personnel are paid.

    “The payroll is automatically generated from verified and appraised personnel data, ensuring that only eligible and validated service personnel receive their allowances.

    “The system checks, cross-checks, and confirms all records before processing payments,” she explained.

    Ruth Dela Seddoh disclosed that attendance monitoring has been upgraded through geofencing technology, which ensures personnel can only check in when they are physically at their designated workplaces, an initiative designed to curb absenteeism and eliminate proxy attendance.

    Apart from payroll improvements, the upgraded system incorporates a smart placement algorithm that automatically assigns personnel to institutions based on their qualifications, regional choices, and institutional requirements.

    The platform also simplifies approval processes, attendance validation, and report submission, minimizing delays and the need for manual handling.

    Every service personnel will now have access to a customized dashboard showing their posting information, institution details, duty records, and a digital certificate with a QR code for instant authentication.

    Institutions, on the other hand, will benefit from a new interface that enables them to request, supervise, and assess personnel with greater ease.

    Madam Seddoh emphasized that the redesigned platform marks a significant stride toward promoting transparency, accountability, and digital efficiency in the administration of national service.

    “Every click, every activity, and every approval is digitally recorded. It’s a complete audit trail that protects everyone and ensures consistency, transparency, and trust,” she said.

    The new system will link with the NSS Connect mobile app to deliver instant updates, alerts, and access to official information.

  • Otto Addo warns foreign-born players not to expect call-ups if they ignored earlier calls

    Otto Addo warns foreign-born players not to expect call-ups if they ignored earlier calls

    Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has responded to swirling concerns regarding his player selection for the global football tournament, FIFA 2026 World Cup.

    Speaking during an interview with 3Sports, which was aired on Tuesday, October 15, Otto Addo explicitly stated that players who have ignored their calls despite continuous efforts from the national team’s technical staff since 2021 should not expect any call-up now that the Black Stars have secured their ticket to the World Cup.

    “We will look at each case one by one. There are players I have been chasing since 2021, who didn’t reply to our calls or want to come. It’s a different thing if we haven’t approached you and now you want to come. But if we have been approaching you all the way and you said no, and now we are at the World Cup, so you want to come, that’s a different matter,” Addo said.

    His remarks follow reports that Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah are considering switching allegiance to play for Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    On his part, unity and commitment from and among the players have played a significant role in the team’s performance, hence the need to check a player’s commitment before giving them an opportunity.

    “I think Ghana should always have a certain pride. As a country, we need to check the commitment of each player. We have very good unity, and we don’t want to destroy it by bringing in players who don’t have commitment,” he added.

    About Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah

    Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah are both English-born footballers of Ghanaian descent. Hudson-Odoi plays for Nottingham Forest, while Nketiah plays for Crystal Palace.

    News about their joining Black Star surfaced around 2021-2023; however, it died out after reports of the players’ request for more time to ponder over the offer and make a decision.

    However, this month, it was reported that, following Ghana’s heavy win against the Central African Republic, these players have expressed their readiness to join the team in Ghana.

    Nketiah, during an appearance on The Beautiful Game podcast openly declared, “If Ghana invites me, then I’ll be there.”

    Oddoi, on the other hand, in June 2021, ahead of the 2022 World Cup, was allegedly contacted by the Ghana FA officials about switching allegiance. Soon after, he visited Ghana that summer, and he met with President Akufo-Addo and Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif, who urged him to consider playing for the Black Stars, but Hudson-Odoi did not commit.

    Subsequently, in November 2021, Oddoi, during a BBC Interview “I think obviously when you’re young and you’ve played for England, that’s something that you’re always proud of… but I feel like Ghana is my home as well.”

    He added that he was “open to anything” and would make a decision when the time was right.

    Also, Hudson-Odoi did not respond to Ghana’s invitations for AFCON 2023 qualifiers. But Ghana FA President Kurt Okraku confirmed in early 2023 that Hudson-Odoi had been contacted but had not completed the FIFA nationality switch.

    Meanwhile, Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    While they look forward to finding out who their group-stage opponents will be when the official draw is held on December 5, they will embark on an Asian tour to face South Korea and Japan as part of their preparations for the World Cup next year.

    This was officially announced by the Ghana Football Association (GFA)  on October 9, in a press release following Ghana’s 5–0 victory over the Central African Republic.

    The first clash is scheduled for November 14 in Toyota as part of the prestigious Kirin Cup, against Japan, before they travel to Seoul to face South Korea three days later, on November 17.

    Both Japan and South Korea have already booked their places at the 2026 World Cup and are expected to field full-strength lineups, providing Ghana with a crucial test ahead of next year’s continental and global competitions.

    The Asian tour forms part of the Ghana Football Association’s broader plan to give coach Otto Addo the platform to evaluate his squad and fine-tune tactics before the global showpiece.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    President Mahama cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros courtesy of a decisive goal from Mohammed Kudus in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    Referring to an unforgettable situation in the history of Ghana football, where Asamoah’s penalty miss cost Ghana’s place in the semi-finals, he urged the team, 

    “We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco by going beyond the semi-finals and, who knows, with fingers crossed, bring the World Cup trophy home to make Ghana and Africa proud”.

    He further went on to call on Ghanaians to support the team without any bias.

    “We must all rally behind the Black Stars. We must support them to the hilt. Let’s not bring in any partisan or ethnic considerations. Let’s give them our full support,” he added.

    The Black Stars will discover their group-stage opponents during the World Cup draw on December 5, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

    Following a group-stage exit at their previous World Cup in Qatar, Ghana now hope to make a lasting impact in the 2026 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    In a congratulatory message shared via video on the football governing body’s Instagram, Infantino praised the four-time African champions for their achievement and expressed excitement about their return to the world stage.

    “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

    “We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

    “See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”

  • 70 state institutions spending within approved budgetary limits – Finance Ministry

    70 state institutions spending within approved budgetary limits – Finance Ministry

    The Mahama-led administration assumed power with a cost-cutting agenda, and part of the measures it put in place include the issuance of Public Financial Management (PFM) Commitment Control and Expenditure Management Measures.

    The PFM Commitment Control and Expenditure Management Measures are a set of strict fiscal guidelines issued on May 2 by the Finance Minister to prevent overspending, reduce arrears, and enforce budget discipline across Ghana’s public sector.

    Following its issuance, seventy-eight (78) state-owned institutions have shown compliance, as reported by the Finance Ministry. 

    The compliance update follows the submission of quarterly commitment control review reports to the Internal Audit Agency (IAA).

    The Ministry’s guidelines were designed to ensure that public entities commit and spend within approved budgetary limits, prevent the accumulation of arrears, and enhance transparency in the management of public funds.

    According to the quarterly report, institutions that have complied with the fiscal guidelines include GoldBod, Tema Oil Refinery, Ghana Enterprise Agency, Public Utilities and Regulatory Commission, Rent Control Department, State Interests and Governance Authority, Venture Capital Trust Fund, and Department of Parks and Gardens.

    Others include NaCCA, Office of the Head of Civil Service, Office of the Administrator of Stool Lands, some Ministries, some Colleges of Education and Municipal, Metropolitan District Assemblies (MMDAs).

    The high level of compliance means that more government institutions are now following the rules on how public money should be spent. It also shows better teamwork between internal auditors and officers who approve spending.

    Next, the government plans to track spending in real time, deal with agencies that still break the rules, and make public finance more transparent and accountable.

    This effort is part of a larger government program to keep the economy stable, reduce wasteful spending, and make sure public funds are managed honestly and efficiently.

    Meanwhile, the government’s “reset agenda” is an economic recovery and social transformation strategy adopted by the current government to help stabilise and ensure economic growth.

    Some of the cost-cutting initiatives implemented by the government since assuming office include a reduction in government size, where he reduced the number of ministers to 56, four short of his 60-minister cap.

    Also, the president in June ordered the discontinuation of all DSTV and other satellite TV subscription payments at the Jubilee House.

    Speaking during an appearance on JoyNews yesterday, Mr Kwakye revealed that the ban on the use of DSTV and other satellite television subscriptions at the Jubilee House will eventually be extended to all other government agencies and institutions.

    He noted that while the decision might appear “trivial,” an internal review revealed that satellite TV subscriptions were accounting for a considerable share of operational expenses.

    “I can reveal to you that if you come to this house, there’s no office in this house that is allowed to subscribe to DSTV or any satellite television,” he said.

    “You would say that that is a trivial matter, but he has done that. Because when you computed the cost, it was significant money.”

    “You can turn on the television that you see here, you will find that I’m only limited to local television stations. It is something that will be extended to all government agencies to ensure that we don’t waste the taxpayers’ money,” he added.

    Also, in July, President Mahama ordered the cancellation of fuel allowances and coupons for all political appointees. He explained that it was targeted at cutting discretionary spending and redirecting funds to priority sectors like health and education.

    Other cost-cutting initiatives include a reduction in office renovation and furnishing budgets, suspension of non-essential foreign travel, and a freeze on new government vehicle purchases.

    The order to reduce office renovation was issued by the Finance Minister as part of the PFM Commitment Control and Expenditure Management Measures on May 2.

    The Minister ordered MDAs that existing assets must be reused or refurbished internally, with no new procurement unless justified.

    The government placed a moratorium on the purchase of new official vehicles across MDAs and SOEs.

    Exceptions are only granted for security and emergency services, subject to Finance Ministry approval.

    His cost-cutting measures have earned praise from individuals and institutions alike. In July, Policy Think Tank, IMANI Africa’s Franklin Cudjoe said: “The reduction in ministerial appointments and cancellation of discretionary perks like DSTV and fuel coupons are commendable steps. It signals a shift toward responsible governance.”

    However, he urged the government to extend the cuts to procurement and contract auditing. Also, Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII)commended the government for the ban on fuel coupons and foreign travel, calling it a “positive signal to curb wasteful spending.”

    The Minority, on the other hand, questioned the government, expressing doubt on the authenticity of the government’s purported move. Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show on March 12, 2025, former Information Minister and current Member of Parliament for Ayirebi Constituency, Oppong-Nkrumah, stated:

    “There has been no cut in the budget. When you look at the numbers, you’ll see that the government is spending more, not less.”

    He said, “they claim they have cut costs, but the numbers tell a different story.”

  • GoldBod accrues $8bn from Small-Scale Gold exports from Jan-Oct 2025

    GoldBod accrues $8bn from Small-Scale Gold exports from Jan-Oct 2025

    Ghana GoldBoard (GoldBod) has reported a significant revenue accrued from small-scale gold export between  January and  October 15.

    The sector has earned US$8 billion in foreign exchange within ten months, according to data from the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC).

    The data reports that small-scale miners exported 81,719.23 kilograms of gold during the period, valued at US$8.06 billion. This marks a sharp increase from US$4.61 billion recorded in 2024 and nearly quadruples the US$2.19 billion achieved in 2023.

    Also, the data shows that gold export increased by 29% between 2024 and 2025, thus from 63,647 kilograms to 81,719 kilograms. When compared to 2023, GoldBod’s earnings have grown more than threefold.

    The data highlights a consistent upward trend in both gold volume and export value over the three years, reflecting improved regulation, transparency, and compliance within Ghana’s small-scale mining sector.

    The data also showed a robust month-on-month growth in the second quarter of the year, with a revenue of  US$1.17 billion recorded in May, US$957.9 million in June, and US$897.6 million in April.

    The country’s official gold buying and distribution authority has linked its significant gains to its partnership with PMMC and strengthened oversight of small-scale gold exports and other related gold-purchasing and regulations. The GoldBod-PMMC collaboration has proved efficient since mid-April 2025, when the former began operations, absorbing the functions of the latter.

    The collaboration has been instrumental in curbing illicit trade and ensuring that proceeds from gold sales are properly repatriated into the Ghanaian economy.

    Meanwhile, GoldBod has been quite instrumental in dealing with leakages in Ghana’s gold trading by regulating the affairs of licensed traders.

    It functions under the oversight and supervision of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Ghana.

    GoldBod announced the suspension of the licence of a Tier 2 licensed gold buying company in Tarkwa over breach of several gold laws.

    In a statement dated Wednesday, September 16, the governing body overseeing all gold trading and export activities in Ghana informed the public that the company’s license has been suspended and all its shops closed.

    “The Ghana Gold Board (“GoldBod”) wishes to inform the general public that it has suspended the license and closed all trading shops of NK Benak Enterprise, a licensed gold buyer (Tier 2), with immediate effect,” the statement stated.

    The suspension comes on the heels of the company’s breach of several gold trading laws, leading to the arrest of its CEO, who is currently facing prosecution.

    “This action has been taken on grounds of NK Benak Enterprise’s complicity in several gold-related offences, which have led to the arrest of the sole proprietor, Bernard Nkrumah, and his prosecution before the High Court,” GoldBod added.

    Consequently, Bernak has lost the right to trade with all other licensed gold trading companies. GoldBod emphasised in the statement, highlighting the commitment to ensuring the appropriate enforcement of all gold trading laws to ensure transparency.

    “Notice is hereby given to all licensed traders, miners, and the general public to desist from trading and/or engaging in any form of gold transaction with NK Benak Enterprise forthwith. GoldBod remains committed to enforcing the laws and regulations that govern the gold trading sector in the spirit of accountability and transparency,” it added.

    This is not the first gold trading company that has been suspended by GoldBod over breach of trading laws. In late August, GoldBod announced it had suspended the license of Evanex Gold Enterprise, a licensed gold buyer (Tier 2), with immediate effect. They took this action following an adverse investigative finding of illegal gold pricing made against the company, contrary to the terms and conditions of the license of the company.

    The GoldBod has thereby cautioned licensed traders, miners, and the general public against trading or engaging in any form of gold transaction with Evanex Gold Enterprise forthwith.

    “GoldBod remains committed to enforcing the laws and regulations that govern the gold trading sector in the spirit of accountability and transparency,” a statement issued by GoldBod read.

    GoldBod’s works has earned praise among neighbouring and internatioal partners.

    At the 2025 IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings, which is currently underway in Washington, finance ministers from Liberia, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Sudan, and others endorsed GoldBod as a model for resource-driven growth.

    Consequently, a high-level delegation from the Kimberly Process management in Mozambique visited GoldBod and embarked on a two-day study of the institution’s model and the country’s experience in establishing and managing institutions that regulate gold trading and certification.

    The Kimberly Process management is a government institution under the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy responsible for ensuring the legality of rough diamonds, precious metals, and gems in Mozambique.

    The exchange programme focused on the work of the Ghana Gold Buying and Distribution Company (Goldbod), which has become a central player in the nation’s mineral economy. The delegation was welcomed and given an overview of the agency’s regulatory framework and operations by Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Goldbod, Richard Nunekpeku Esq.

    History of GoldBod

    The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) is a body corporate established by an Act of Parliament (ACT 1140) in the year 2025 to oversee, regulate and undertake the buying, selling, assaying, refining, exporting and other related activities in respect of Gold and other Precious Minerals in Ghana.

    The GoldBod per section 78 of ACT 1140, took over the rights, obligations, assets, liabilities and workforce of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) Limited, which is an offshoot of the Ghana Diamond Marketing Board.

    In 1963, the Ghana Diamond Marketing Board was established and charged with the responsibility of purchasing and marketing Ghana’s diamonds.

    In 1965, by a Legislative Instrument (LI) 401, the Ghana Diamond Marketing Board was incorporated as a State-Owned Enterprise (SOE).

    Upon the promulgation of the diamonds decree (NRCD 32) in 1972, LI 916 was enacted to change the company’s name to Diamond Marketing Corporation.

    In 1989, PNDC Law 219 was enacted to yet again change the Company’s name to the Precious Minerals Marketing Corporation with enhanced functions to grade, assay, value gold, diamonds and other precious minerals of the country.

    In the year 2000, the Corporation was converted by the Statutory Corporations Conversion to Companies Act (ACT 461) to a Limited Liability Company to operate under the Ghana Companies Code Act (ACT 179) 1963, as Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) Limited, with the same functions.

    In the year 2016, the PMMC was appointed the national assayer by the government of Ghana.

    To strengthen industry regulation and optimize national benefits, the Ghana GoldBod was established on 2 April, 2025 by the government of Ghana to restructure and streamline the precious mineral trading sector of Ghana.

    The GoldBod initiative is a product of extensive stakeholder consultations and aims at maximising foreign exchange inflows, gold reserve accumulation and value addition for sustainable growth and transformation.

  • 180,000 health workers could be jobless by 2027 – Health Minister

    180,000 health workers could be jobless by 2027 – Health Minister

    Ghana’s Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who also doubles as Juaboso Constituency Member of Parliament, has warned of a looming crisis of unemployment brooding in Ghana’s health sector.

    Early this month, a group of nurses and midwives, who identify as the Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives, took to the streets to protest over unpaid salaries for the last 10 months since their posting in December 2024.

    The Health Ministry responded to their request, promising to settle all arrears by next month.

    Speaking on the challenges facing employment in Ghana’s health sector, Mr Akandoh, during an appearance on The Point of View on Channel One TV on Wednesday, October 15, revealed that as more health practitioners graduate each year, the unemployment rate within the sector continues to rise.

    He said if measures aren’t taken immediately, Ghana could have as many as 180,000 unemployed trained health professionals by the end of 2028.

    According to the Minister, the current number of unemployed health workers stands at around 74,000. However, with thousands more graduating each year, the figure is expected to more than double within the next three years.

    “By the end of 2026, we will have an additional 23,000. By the end of 2027, we will have an additional 35,000. By the end of 2028, we will have about 47,000. So by the end of 2028, if we don’t employ anybody, this 74,000 is still outstanding — we will have not less than 180,000 trained and they will be at home,” he said.

    In light of this, he detailed that the government is working on a recruitment strategy, including collaborations with other international bodies and countries to ship them out in a policy called “managed migration”. Thirteen (13) countries have so far responded; however, most of them prefer to work with specialists. 

    “So there is a strategy going forward. What we are seeking to do now is that gradually, the government will be employing some of them as we move along,” he said.“We are also looking at what we call managed migration, how we will be able to export some of them. About 13 countries have responded, but the difficulty is that most of these countries that have responded need a specialist,” he added.

    He also revealed that Ghana would need not less than GHS6 billion annually to clear the existing backlog of unemployed health professionals.

    The comments come amid growing pressure from unemployed nurses and midwives demanding placement, and criticism from the Minority in Parliament over how the government is handling health sector employment.

    Ranking Member on the Health Committee speaking during a media engagement, stated that, “there is no need for Cabinet to approve anything. Again, there’s no need for this clearance. The government should come and tell the people the truth.”

    The Minority accused the government of taking health workers for granted, saying their patience had run out.

    They emphasized that financial clearance for 15,000 health workers was already secured under the previous NPP administration in July 2024.

    About 8,000 of those workers were paid, and the remaining 7,000 should have been paid as well , especially since they were posted before the December 2024 handover.

    However, Mr Akandoh, during his interview with Channel One’s Bernard Avle, stated that the previous administration led by Akufo-Addo did not make any budget for the over 13,000 nurses they recruited.

    The Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, has stated that the salary delays affecting thousands of nurses, teachers, and junior doctors are due to lapses under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, October 8, Dr. Pelpuo blamed the NPP’s poor recruitment practices and fiscal indiscipline for the current plight of nurses and doctors.

    “The situation is currently unfair, but it is a culmination of events that took place in the last regime before the current regime took over. People were engaged to work without due process. For you to work and be paid, you need clearance to show that there is money in the account and that your employment has been approved. That didn’t happen in this respect,” he said.

    Ghana, in recent times, has witnessed several protests from government employees, specifically, teachers, nurses, and doctors. According to him, the former government handed over a poorly planned budget that didn’t make room to pay nurses, teachers, and doctors.

    As such, he called the protesting groups to call for calm as the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration will work to rectify the situation.

    “We are taking it up very seriously, and I can assure the nurses, teachers, and junior doctors who are caught up in the process that we are going to respond to them before the end of the year,” he stated.

    On Tuesday, September 30, Newly Posted Teachers group, comprising of graduates from Colleges of Education and universities submitted their petition to the Finance Ministry, which calls on the government to clear debts owed them.

    The group initially declared their intention to hit the streets over salaries owed them on Tuesday, September 23. However, speaking to Citi News, the group’s Lead Convener, Simon Kofi Nartey, noted that the Ministry of Education and other relevant authorities are yet to respond to their earlier petitions, thus rescheduling the protest to September 30.

    Simon Kofi Nartey called on the government to settle their 12 months and 8 months, respectively, within the given ultimatum. According to him, the group will have no option but to hit the streets if the government does not treat their demands with urgency.

    “It is rather unfortunate that, as we speak, nothing has been done about the concerns we raised at our press conference. We have no option but to take to the streets to let Ghanaians know what is happening. We have already met with the Greater Accra Regional Police Command and agreed on September 30 for the demonstration,” he said.

    Also on October 3, the Junior Doctors’ Association of Ghana (JDA-GH) declared its intention to withdrawn nationwide over unpaid salaries and alleged untreatment from the government.

    However, the group made U-turn over its nationwide strike, which was expected to commence on Tuesday, October 6. The decision to suspend the withdrawal of services follows constructive discussions with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and other key stakeholders.

    This was contained in a press statement issued by the Association’s leadership on Monday, October 6.According to the statement, “After careful consideration and following assurances from the Ministry of Health and relevant stakeholders, the Association has decided to suspend its planned industrial action to allow for the full implementation of the agreed resolutions”.

  • Confirmed: Ghana, SA, Cape Verde, 6 others qualify for 2026 FIFA WC

    Confirmed: Ghana, SA, Cape Verde, 6 others qualify for 2026 FIFA WC

    Nine (9) African nations have secured their tickets to the global football tournament, FIFA 2026 World Cup, following the wrap-up of the CAF qualification campaign.

    The World Cup qualifiers delivered an exciting blend of comeback tales and breakthroughs. Cape Verde made it this time, marking their maiden participation, a feat they describe as the second-best thing to happen to their nation aside from independence, being the second-smallest nation to ever qualify for the tournament. Their new record is reminiscent of Iceland’s trailblazing run in 2018.

    On the other hand, Ivory Coast and South Africa secured long-awaited returns to the global stage, while established powerhouses like Senegal, Morocco, and Tunisia once again proved their dominance, highlighting the growing competitiveness and maturity of African football on the world scene.

    The Black Stars of Ghana made history, qualifying for a fifth World Cup, led by former player Otto Addo.

    So far, the confirmed nations that have officially been named among the qualifiers include Ghana Black Stars, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, South Africa, and Cape Verde. With some of the top national teams set to compete at the global showpiece, the expectations would be high.

    Morocco reached the semi-finals at the 2022 edition and made Africa very proud. Hopefully, one of the nine qualified national teams would match that feat or even go a step closer to playing in the final. President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    President Mahama cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros courtesy of a decisive goal from Mohammed Kudus in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    Referring to an unforgettable situation in the history of Ghana football, where Asamoah’s penalty miss cost Ghana’s place in the semi-finals, he urged the team, 

    “We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco by going beyond the semi-finals and, who knows, with fingers crossed, bring the World Cup trophy home to make Ghana and Africa proud”.

    He further went on to call on Ghanaians to support the team without any bias.

    “We must all rally behind the Black Stars. We must support them to the hilt. Let’s not bring in any partisan or ethnic considerations. Let’s give them our full support,” he added.

    The Black Stars will discover their group-stage opponents during the World Cup draw on December 5, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

    Following a group-stage exit at their previous World Cup in Qatar, Ghana now hopes to make a lasting impact in the 2026 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Meanwhile, German manufacturer Adidas, which has been designing World Cup balls since the 1970 tournament, has once again produced the official match ball for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup.

    Named Trionda, the ball was officially unveiled on Thursday, October 2, during a global launch event at Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York City. The presentation, hosted jointly by FIFA and Adidas, showcased the ball’s design, technology, and symbolic meaning.

    FIFA president Gianni Infantino, during the unveiling of the ball, said, “The Official Match Ball for the FIFA World Cup 26 is here, and it’s a beauty! “I am delighted and proud to present the Trionda.”

    Trionda, originating from Spanish, is interpreted as “tri” (three) and “onda” (wave), which signifies the three host countries of the global tournament. Trionda stuns with an aesthetic design which has representations from all three host countries, Canada, Mexico, and the USA, with features including Red panels with maple leaves for Canada, green panels with eagle motifs for Mexico and blue panels with stars for the USA. It also has a central triangle formed by the panel seams, symbolising unity.

    Less visible are technological advancements that include deep seams designed to produce “optimal in-flight stability” and embossed icons that improve grip in wet or humid conditions.

    A motion sensor chip will relay information on the ball’s movement, sending data to the video assistant referee (VAR) system. Trionda also has micro-embossed icons for enhanced grip in varied climates. It has been tested across all 16 host cities for altitude, humidity, and temperature

    Adidas earned praise from Infantino for its iconic creation. He said, “Adidas has created another iconic FIFA World Cup ball, with a design that embodies the unity and passion of next year’s host nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.”

    Infantinno added, “I can’t wait to see this beautiful ball hitting the back of the net. The countdown to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever is on, and the ball is rolling!”

    About 2026 FIFA World Cup

    The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 countries, making it the largest World Cup in history. This comes after the football governing body allowed more countries from Africa, Asia, and CONCACAF to qualify, increasing global representation. Previously, the tournament was open to just 32 teams; however, sixteen (16) more teams have been included.The tournament will feature a total of one hundred and four (104) games across 16 cities, with 12 groups of 4 teams each in the group stage. The knockout stage will begin with a new Round of 32.

    The unveiling marks another step in the countdown to the North American World Cup, which will be held June 11-July 19 next year.

    FIFA has launched its online phased ticket sales procedures, with more than 4.5 million fans from 216 countries and territories entering the presale draw.

    The tournament draw will be held in Washington on December 5.

  • Black Stars to face Japan, South Korea in preparatory games ahead of World Cup

    Black Stars to face Japan, South Korea in preparatory games ahead of World Cup

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    While they look forward to finding out who their group-stage opponents will be when the official draw is held on December 5, they will embark on an Asian tour to face South Korea and Japan as part of their preparations for the World Cup next year.

    This was officially announced by the Ghana Football Association (GFA)  on October 9, in a press release following Ghana’s 5–0 victory over the Central African Republic.

    The first clash is scheduled for November 14 in Toyota as part of the prestigious Kirin Cup, against Japan, before they travel to Seoul to face South Korea three days later, on November 17.

    Both Japan and South Korea have already booked their places at the 2026 World Cup and are expected to field full-strength lineups, providing Ghana with a crucial test ahead of next year’s continental and global competitions.

    The Asian tour forms part of the Ghana Football Association’s broader plan to give coach Otto Addo the platform to evaluate his squad and fine-tune tactics before the global showpiece.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    President Mahama cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros courtesy of a decisive goal from Mohammed Kudus in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    Referring to an unforgettable situation in the history of Ghana football, where Asamoah’s penalty miss cost Ghana’s place in the semi-finals, he urged the team, 

    “We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco by going beyond the semi-finals and, who knows, with fingers crossed, bring the World Cup trophy home to make Ghana and Africa proud”.

    He further went on to call on Ghanaians to support the team without any bias.

    “We must all rally behind the Black Stars. We must support them to the hilt. Let’s not bring in any partisan or ethnic considerations. Let’s give them our full support,” he added.

    Following a group-stage exit at their previous World Cup in Qatar, Ghana now hope to make a lasting impact in the 2026 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    In a congratulatory message shared via video on the football governing body’s Instagram, Infantino praised the four-time African champions for their achievement and expressed excitement about their return to the world stage.

    “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

    “We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

    “See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”

    Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has reacted to questions surrounding his future with the team.

    His second coming as a Black Stars head coach was met with mixed reactions. While some supported him as the most familiar to handle the team, others questioned his maturity, his tactical prowess, especially after the Black Stars’ group-stage exit at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). 2022 under his leadership.

    However, his recent record as the first coach in Ghana’s football history to oversee the team’s qualification to the world’s biggest football tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, twice, has sparked some confidence from fans about his competency, as well as questions surrounding his long-term future due to his inconsistencies in performances.

    Ahead of Ghana’s final game for the 2026 World Cup clash with Comoros, in an interview with the Ghana FA website, the former Dortmund talent coach intimated that his focus is to make Ghanaians happy and not to worry about keeping his job, a situation he has no control over.

    “What happens after is not in my hands. I hope that a lot of people, if we win, can go to America. We have to win this game. This is what we are looking at. If Ghanaians are happy, then we are happy,” he said.

    Addressing calls for his dismissal, including ones from the former Majority speaker of Parliament and the former Suame Member of Parliament (MP), Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu, the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, noted that the dismissal of Otto Addo is not a solo decision he can make but several factors will need to be considered before decision about the coach’s future is made.

    “If you listen to Otto Addo on the team, he said he will try a lot of legs to know who will go or not, but I believe the management and everybody who is involved in hiring the coach will consider a lot of factors,” “I pay him, but it is not my decision alone. The GFA has a role to play, and it is not about this or not and going forward, we will have all these conversations,” Mr Adams said during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

    The Minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency, emphasised that Addo remains the head coach and deserves full support from all Ghanaians.

    “Ivory Coast sacked their coach during AFCON, and their assistant coach, Emerse Faé, led them to win the AFCON. If you are determined, you will bring success. At this moment, he is our coach, and we have to support him.”

  • Govt to absorb 6,200 teachers, settle all arrears owed them – Education Minister 

    Govt to absorb 6,200 teachers, settle all arrears owed them – Education Minister 

    Education Minister has announced that, government will absorb six thousand two hundred teachers into the education system and settle all arrears owed them.

    This announcement comes after a group of concerned and aggrieved teachers who have worked for months without salary petitioned the officeof the Education Minister, he said.

    Addressing the petition, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, during a pre-event briefing and regional stakeholder meeting on October 13 ahead of the ADEA Triennale 2025 launch later this month, revealed that the government has earmarked about one million cedis for the payment of teachers’ salaries. He also urged them to give their best to promote academic excellence across the country’s educational institutions.

    “A few weeks ago, my Chief Director and I received a petition from some teachers who were unhappy with the government over their delayed salaries. They have worked for several months without pay. I’m happy to announce that the Cabinet has given approval for the 6,200 teachers to be absorbed, and the process will begin in due course. They will receive their staff IDs, and as I assured them, they will also get their back pay.

    “But having demonstrated goodwill by doing this, we expect something in return, that they remain committed and dedicated to academic work,” the Minister highlighted.

    According to him, the government has approved one million dollars to absorb the teachers and a category of health workers.

    So, those 6,200 teachers, I think I can speak for both ministries in this matter, the Cabinet has given the Minister of Finance approval to vary the budget and spend about GH₵1.1 billion to absorb a category of health workers and teachers”, the Minister noted.

    The Tamale South Constituency MP also revealed steps the government is taking to deal with the confusion that comes with the school placement system. Three hundred and ninety-three thousand (393,000) candidates passed their Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in 2025, making them eligible to enter Senior High School as the country’s education system demands.

    Due to the long-standing prestige attached to fewer than 100 top-tier Category A and B schools, the 76,000 vacancies available in these institutions cannot accommodate the large number of students who prefer them, creating intense pressure on the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).

    Consequently, Haruna Iddrisu, announced plans to promote fairness and improve access for all qualified candidates starting next year, 2026, by re-categorising some second-cycle schools, a move which has received the President’s approval. 

    “When it comes to Category A, B, and C schools, every parent understandably wants their child in a Category A school. But in the past month, we haven’t expanded infrastructure in any Category A school to make that possible. My thinking, to ensure equity, is that from 2026 onwards, after consultations and discussions with the President, and with his support and blessing, we will convert at least 10 Category C schools to Category B schools, and 10 Category B schools to Category A schools”, the Minister said.

    The re-categorisation will, however, be backed by improved infrastructure facilities in the respective schools to promote a serene academic atmosphere.

    “This will be backed by infrastructure improvements, additional classroom blocks, dormitories for students, and quality enhancements through better teaching and learning materials and aids”, Mr Haruna continued.

    The Education Ministry has announced a transition from prepaid to postpaid meters across all government senior high schools nationwide.

    This was announced by the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, during a speech at the 63rd Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) in Sunyani, held on Wednesday, October 8

    The move comes following complaints from headteachers over the unreliability of prepaid meters and the challenges that disrupted power flow causes to academic work.

    Ahead of the Minister’s announcement, CHASS National President, Alhaji Yakub A.B. Abubakar, highlighted some of the challenges faced by these headteachers, citing electricity supply disruptions due to prepaid meters.

    In response, the Minister said “….And I’m happy to announce that, first January 2026, all CHASS schools will be on post-paid meters. My colleague Hon Jinapor asked me to convey to you that it is possible and that all CHASS schools will be moved to postpaid so that you will not continue to endure the embarrassment of lights being off”, the minister disclosed.

    Over the years, the government-assisted Senior High Schools (SHS) have complained about the interruptions in power supply due to the use of pre-paid meters in the respective schools. Prepaid electricity meters work on a “pay-as-you-go” system, where users buy power in advance and consume only what they’ve paid for.

    Consequently, schools had to buy electricity upfront and later seek reimbursement from the Ministry of Education, and this created cash flow problems, especially when government funds were delayed.

    Headmasters emphasised that power interruptions affected students’ ability to study, especially during exam preparation periods.

    Schools like Mawuli SHS and Presec-Legon reported frequent blackouts when prepaid units ran out, disrupting evening studies and essential services. Mawuli SHS noted that “each time the units run out, we’re plunged into darkness,” which directly undermines academic performance.

    The Minister also disclosed that the Education Ministry has cleared the outstanding arrears owed to Primetime Limited, organisers of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz (NSMQ), from 2023 to date.

    The Ministry confirmed the disbursement in a statement released on Wednesday, October 8, issued by its Press Secretary, Hashim Haruna.

    The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to promoting science and mathematics education through consistent financial support and broader participation.

    “The Ministry of Education has released an amount of GH¢9.5 million to Primetime Company to clear all the arrears owed to the organisers of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz competition,” the statement read.

    The Ministry also announced that the competition will now include more schools.

    “The number of schools in the competition has now been expanded to 177, up from 124 this year,” the statement added.

    The organisers of NSMQ released the timetable for the competition on October 1, which included the launch and balloting set for October 7, as well as the preliminaries slated for October 13 to 17.

    Two days later, the one-eighth stage will kick off from October 19 to 21, followed by the quarter-finals from October 23 to 25. The semi-finals will take place on October 27, and the grand finale, where the champions will be announced, is scheduled for three days later.

    However, CHASS initially announced its intention to boycott this year’s competition, citing financial constraints. In a statement dated October 3 and signed by CHASS National Secretary Baro Primus, the organisation informed the quiz organisers that Ghanaian senior high schools would not participate in the balloting or subsequent stages of the 2025 NSMQ.

  • Whatever happens is not in my hands – Otto Addo on his future with Black Stars 

    Whatever happens is not in my hands – Otto Addo on his future with Black Stars 

    Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has reacted to questions surrounding his future with the team. 

    His second coming as a Black Stars head coach was met with mixed reactions. While some supported him as the most familiar to handle the team, others questioned his maturity, his tactical prowess, especially after the Black Stars’ group-stage exit at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). 2022 under his leadership.

    However, his recent record as the first coach in Ghana’s football history to oversee the team’s qualification to the world’s biggest football tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, twice, has sparked some confidence from fans about his competency, as well as questions surrounding his long-term future due to his inconsistencies in performances.

    Ahead of Ghana’s final game for the 2026 World Cup clash with Comoros, in an interview with the Ghana FA  website, the former Dortmund talent coach intimated that his focus is to make Ghanaians happy and not to worry about keeping his job, a situation he has no control over.

    “What happens after is not in my hands. I hope that a lot of people, if we win, can go to America. We have to win this game. This is what we are looking at. If Ghanaians are happy, then we are happy,” he said.

    Addressing calls for his dismissal, including ones from the former Majority speaker of Parliament and the former Suame Member of Parliament (MP), Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu, the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, noted that the dismissal of Otto Addo is not a solo decision he can make but several factors will need to be considered before decision about the coach’s future is made.

    “If you listen to Otto Addo on the team, he said he will try a lot of legs to know who will go or not, but I believe the management and everybody who is involved in hiring the coach will consider a lot of factors,” “I pay him, but it is not my decision alone. The GFA has a role to play, and it is not about this or not and going forward, we will have all these conversations,” Mr Adams said during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

    The Minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency, emphasised that Addo remains the head coach and deserves full support from all Ghanaians.

    “Ivory Coast sacked their coach during AFCON, and their assistant coach, Emerse Faé, led them to win the AFCON. If you are determined, you will bring success. At this moment, he is our coach, and we have to support him.”

    Ghana will discover their group-stage opponents for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on December 5.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    In a congratulatory message shared via video on the football governing body’s Instagram, Infantino praised the four-time African champions for their achievement and expressed excitement about their return to the world stage.

    “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

    “We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

    “See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”

    Ghana’s qualification marks their fifth appearance at the World Cup, following previous campaigns in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022.

    Among African nations, only Cameroon (8), Morocco (7), Tunisia (7), and Nigeria (6) have made more appearances on the world stage.

    The Black Stars accrued 25 points after their final World Cup qualifier. Initially sitting in third place after two rounds of matches, Ghana began their campaign against Madagascar on November 17, 2023, securing a 1–0 home victory on Matchday 1, before suffering a 1–0 away loss to Comoros on Matchday 2, November 21, 2023. The team bounced back strongly on March 21, delivering a convincing 4–0 win over Chad.

    This set the tone for another win against Madagascar on March 24. Ghana defeated Madagascar 3–0 in Morocco, with a brace from Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus bringing the team’s points to 15. They remained atop the group until their last game on October 12.

    Also, President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher, beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    President Mahama cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros courtesy of a decisive goal from Mohammed Kudus in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    Referring to an unforgettable situation in the history of Ghana football, where Asamoah’s penalty miss cost Ghana’s place in the semi-finals, he urged the team,

    “We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco by going beyond the semi-finals and, who knows, with fingers crossed, bring the World Cup trophy home to make Ghana and Africa proud”.

    He further went on to call on Ghanaians to support the team without any bias.

    “We must all rally behind the Black Stars. We must support them to the hilt. Let’s not bring in any partisan or ethnic considerations. Let’s give them our full support,” he added.

  • What it will take to sack Otto Addo – Sports Minister details

    What it will take to sack Otto Addo – Sports Minister details

    Otto Addo’s second coming as a Black Stars head coach was met with mixed reactions. While some supported him as the most familiar to handle the team, others questioned his maturity, his tactical prowess, especially after the Black Stars’ group-stage exit at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)2022 under his leadership.

    However, his recent record as the first coach in Ghana’s football history to oversee the team’s qualification to the world’s biggest football tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, twice, has sparked some confidence from fans about his competency, as well as questions surrounding his long-term future due to his inconsistencies in performances.

    Addressing calls for his dismissal, including ones from the former Majority speaker of Parliament and the former Suame Member of Parliament (MP), Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu, the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, noted that the dismissal of Otto Addo is not a solo decision he can make but several factors will need to be considered before decision about the coach’s future is made.

    “If you listen to Otto Addo on the team, he said he will try a lot of legs to know who will go or not, but I believe the management and everybody who is involved in hiring the coach will consider a lot of factors,” “I pay him, but it is not my decision alone. The GFA has a role to play, and it is not about this or not and going forward, we will have all these conversations,” Mr Adams said during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

    The Minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency, emphasised that Addo remains the head coach and deserves full support from all Ghanaians.

    “Ivory Coast sacked their coach during AFCON, and their assistant coach, Emerse Faé, led them to win the AFCON. If you are determined, you will bring success. At this moment, he is our coach, and we have to support him.”

    Ghana will discover their group-stage opponents for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on December 5.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    In a congratulatory message shared via video on the football governing body’s Instagram, Infantino praised the four-time African champions for their achievement and expressed excitement about their return to the world stage.

    “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

    “We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

    “See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”

    Ghana’s qualification marks their fifth appearance at the World Cup, following previous campaigns in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022.

    Among African nations, only Cameroon (8), Morocco (7), Tunisia (7), and Nigeria (6) have made more appearances on the world stage.

    The Black Stars accrued 25 points after their final World Cup qualifier. Initially sitting in third place after two rounds of matches, Ghana began their campaign against Madagascar on November 17, 2023, securing a 1–0 home victory on Matchday 1, before suffering a 1–0 away loss to Comoros on Matchday 2, November 21, 2023. The team bounced back strongly on March 21, delivering a convincing 4–0 win over Chad.

    This set the tone for another win against Madagascar on March 24. Ghana defeated Madagascar 3–0 in Morocco, with a brace from Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus bringing the team’s points to 15. They remained atop the group until their last game on October 12.

    Also, President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher, beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    President Mahama cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros courtesy of a decisive goal from Mohammed Kudus in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    Referring to an unforgettable situation in the history of Ghana football, where Asamoah’s penalty miss cost Ghana’s place in the semi-finals, he urged the team,

    “We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco by going beyond the semi-finals and, who knows, with fingers crossed, bring the World Cup trophy home to make Ghana and Africa proud”.

    He further went on to call on Ghanaians to support the team without any bias.

    “We must all rally behind the Black Stars. We must support them to the hilt. Let’s not bring in any partisan or ethnic considerations. Let’s give them our full support,” he added.

  • I’m a one-woman man when it comes to relationships and marriage – KiDi

    I’m a one-woman man when it comes to relationships and marriage – KiDi

    Ghanaian Afrobeat star KiDi, born Dennis Nana Dwamena, declared his stance on polygamy. He says he believes in having just one partner and not more than one. 

    During an appearance on Asempa FM’s Showbiz Review on October 13, with host Obidombie Kweku Adu Kumi, the ‘Lomo Lomo’ hitmaker stated that his parents represented an excellent example of devotion, commitment and loyalty over the years. 

    Consequently, he has a different perspective when it comes to relationships and love.

    “I grew up watching my mum and dad build something beautiful together. They’ve been together for years, and that has shaped how I see love and family,” he said.

    Buttering his conviction on the ‘one-man-one woman’ relationship, KiDi also referred to his principles as a Christian, whose life choices are guided by the dictates of the Bible, which does not accept polygamy, hence he doesn’t expect other people to agree with him as far as this matter is concerned.

    “Muslims are allowed to marry more than one; Christians are not, so I cannot say what’s right or wrong for anyone else. What works for one person might not work for another. For me, as a Christian, I believe one man, one woman is right,” he added.

    The 2022 Telecel Ghana Music Awards Artiste of the Year’s music, which is filled with themes of love, desire, and flirtation, has earned him huge admiration, particularly from female fans, earning him monickers like Girl Dem Sugar and Sugar Daddy, among other nicknames he proudly owns due to consistently leaning into romantic storytelling.

    In a candid interview on Joy Prime’s entertainment magazine show PrimeTime, hosted by George Quaye, the award-winning artiste discussed the challenges of fame and the attention it brings, especially from women.

    In response to how he handles the attention from women, he explained that, “There’s no rule book on how to deal with these things; just grace and making sure that you’re disciplined.”

    When asked whether he intends to marry, he said yes but admitted he is unsure about his readiness and the timing for such a lifelong commitment. He confirmed he was currently single and not in a relationship with any woman.

    KiDi disclosed: “KiDi is getting married, but we don’t know if it’s soon. It’s something I want one day, but I don’t know if I’m ready for it yet.” Asked if there was a special woman in his life, he replied: “No.”

    He also reflected on his determination to stay authentic in his craft despite the demands of fame, explaining that his personal experiences shape his music, allowing him to create songs that resonate deeply with fans.

    KiDi, the voice behind hits such as Odo, Touch It, Say Cheese, Enjoyment, and Adiepena, has gained international recognition and was crowned Artist of the Year at the 2022 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards. His soulful and romantic style has endeared him especially to women, cementing his place as one of the most adored acts of his generation.

    In late April, KiDi made it clear that a woman’s sexual history plays a significant role in whether or not he would consider her for marriage.

    Speaking on the Rants, Bants and Confessions podcast, the “Likor” hitmaker stated that while he has no problem with a woman’s body count in a casual relationship, he thinks differently when it comes to a lifelong commitment.

    “If we’re just having a good time, having fun, I don’t care. But if you’re someone I’m going to call mine, it matters,” he said.

    KiDi explained that when he envisions a future with someone, her past matters to him—not just physically, but emotionally. He believes that multiple intimate connections could leave behind emotional baggage that might affect a committed relationship.

    “I don’t want to walk into a space and see all the guys eyeing each other. I don’t want a woman who has given her body and soul to too many people, because when I meet you, I feel like I’m meeting a very degraded version of yourself,” he added.

    His comments stirred mixed reactions online, with some agreeing with his perspective while others found it controversial.

    In May, he jokingly announced that he is the latest prophet to hit town. He commented after his predictions for the outcome of a football game between Arsenal and Madrid on Spotify came to pass just as he expected.

    During an engagement with Derrick Elorm Ashilevi on “Talk No Dey Cook Rice Podcast” KiDi was asked by the host how he felt about such an experience.

    In response, the musician humoursely declared, “I mean, I feel like you people should be asking about your future now …So I can tell you what’s going to be happening tomorrow,” while he bursts into laughter.

    KiDi has established himself as one of Ghana’s top contemporary artists, blending his music with influences of Afrobeat, Highlife, and R&B.

  • Govt to upgrade about 20 category B schools to A, C to B next year

    Govt to upgrade about 20 category B schools to A, C to B next year

    Three hundred and ninety-three thousand (393,000) candidates passed their Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in 2025, making them eligible to enter Senior High School as the country’s education system demands.

    Due to the long-standing prestige attached to fewer than 100 top-tier Category A and B schools, the 76,000 vacancies available in these institutions cannot accommodate the large number of students who prefer them, creating intense pressure on the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).

    Consequently, the Education Ministry, during a speech at the pre-event briefings and regional stakeholder meetings, ahead of the launch ADEA Triennale 2025 in late October, announced plans to promote fairness and improve access for all qualified candidates starting next year, 2026, by re-categorising some second-cycle schools, a move which has received the President’s approval. 

    “When it comes to Category A, B, and C schools, every parent understandably wants their child in a Category A school. But in the past month, we haven’t expanded infrastructure in any Category A school to make that possible. My thinking, to ensure equity, is that from 2026 onwards, after consultations and discussions with the President, and with his support and blessing, we will convert at least 10 Category C schools to Category B schools, and 10 Category B schools to Category A schools”, the Minister said.

    The re-categorisation will, however, be backed by improved infrastructure facilities in the respective schools to promote a serene academic atmosphere.

    “This will be backed by infrastructure improvements, additional classroom blocks, dormitories for students, and quality enhancements through better teaching and learning materials and aids”, Mr Haruna continued.

    Addressing a petition brought to his office by a group of concerned and aggrieved teachers who have worked for months without salary, Haruna Iddrisu revealed that, government has earmarked about a million cedis for the payment of their salaries, and about 6,200 teachers will be absorbed and given back pay. While at it, the Education Minister charged the teachers to give their best to ensure academic excellence in the country’s respective educational institutions.

    “A few weeks ago, my Chief Director and I received a petition from some teachers who were unhappy with the government over their delayed salaries. They have worked for several months without pay. I’m happy to announce that the Cabinet has given approval for the 6,200 teachers to be absorbed, and the process will begin in due course. They will receive their staff IDs, and as I assured them, they will also get their back pay.

    “But having demonstrated goodwill by doing this, we expect something in return, that they remain committed and dedicated to academic work. So, those 6,200 teachers, I think I can speak for both ministries in this matter, the Cabinet has given the Minister of Finance approval to vary the budget and spend about GH₵1.1 billion to absorb a category of health workers and teachers”, the Minister noted.

    The Education Ministry has announced a transition from prepaid to postpaid meters across all government senior high schools nationwide.

    This was announced by the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, during a speech at the 63rd Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) in Sunyani, held on Wednesday, October 8

    The move comes following complaints from headteachers over the unreliability of prepaid meters and the challenges that disrupted power flow causes to academic work.

    Ahead of the Minister’s announcement, CHASS National President, Alhaji Yakub A.B. Abubakar, highlighted some of the challenges faced by these headteachers, citing electricity supply disruptions due to prepaid meters.

    In response, the Minister said “….And I’m happy to announce that, first January 2026, all CHASS schools will be on post-paid meters. My colleague Hon Jinapor asked me to convey to you that it is possible and that all CHASS schools will be moved to postpaid in order that you will not continue to endure the embarrassment of lights being off”, the minister disclosed.

    Over the years, the government-assisted Senior High Schools (SHS) have complained about the interruptions in power supply due to the use of pre-paid meters in the respective schools. Prepaid electricity meters work on a “pay-as-you-go” system, where users buy power in advance and consume only what they’ve paid for.

    Consequently, schools had to buy electricity upfront and later seek reimbursement from the Ministry of Education, and this created cash flow problems, especially when government funds were delayed.

    Headmasters emphasised that power interruptions affected students’ ability to study, especially during exam preparation periods.

    Schools like Mawuli SHS and Presec-Legon reported frequent blackouts when prepaid units ran out, disrupting evening studies and essential services. Mawuli SHS noted that “each time the units run out, we’re plunged into darkness,” which directly undermines academic performance.

    The Minister also disclosed that the Education Ministry has cleared the outstanding arrears owed to Primetime Limited, organisers of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz (NSMQ), from 2023 to date.

    The Ministry confirmed the disbursement in a statement released on Wednesday, October 8, issued by its Press Secretary, Hashim Haruna.

    The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to promoting science and mathematics education through consistent financial support and broader participation.

    “The Ministry of Education has released an amount of GH¢9.5 million to Primetime Company to clear all the arrears owed to the organisers of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz competition,” the statement read.

    The Ministry also announced that the competition will now include more schools.

    “The number of schools in the competition has now been expanded to 177, up from 124 this year,” the statement added.

    The organisers of NSMQ released the timetable for the competition on October 1, which included the launch and balloting set for October 7, as well as the preliminaries slated for October 13 to 17.

    Two days later, the one-eighth stage will kick off from October 19 to 21, followed by the quarter-finals from October 23 to 25. The semi-finals will take place on October 27, and the grand finale, where the champions will be announced, is scheduled for three days later.

    However, CHASS initially announced its intention to boycott this year’s competition, citing financial constraints. In a statement dated October 3 and signed by CHASS National Secretary Baro Primus, the organisation informed the quiz organisers that Ghanaian senior high schools would not participate in the balloting or subsequent stages of the 2025 NSMQ.

  • Mpox cases hit 713 as GHS records 26 new infections

    Mpox cases hit 713 as GHS records 26 new infections

    Twenty-six more people have been infected with the monkeypox (Mpox) virus, according to the latest update released by the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

    The new cases bring the total number of infections to 713 as of October 10, 2025. No additional deaths have been reported since the last one, keeping the death toll at three. The most recent Mpox-related death occurred on September 18 in the Eastern Region, and the GHS noted that the patient had underlying health conditions.

    Currently, three patients are on admission and receiving treatment.

    The GHS reminded the public that Mpox spreads mainly through close contact with an infected person. Common symptoms include fever, rash, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and fatigue.

    Health authorities urged individuals who experience these symptoms to immediately visit the nearest health facility for examination and treatment.

    The Service also advised Ghanaians to maintain good personal hygiene and observe preventive measures to help reduce the spread of infection.

    As of Thursday, September 18, the Ghana Health Service had reported ten (10) new Mpox cases, raising the total number of confirmed cases to 565.

    However, in a Facebook post on Wednesday, September 24, the Service announced another 18 new cases, bringing the total to 583.

    This marked a surge from the 519 confirmed cases reported on Thursday, September 11. At that time, two patients were on admission.

    Earlier, on August 28, 21 new cases had been recorded, bringing the total to 467, while on August 25, the Service reported 22 new infections, raising the cumulative figure to 446.

    On August 20, 15 new cases were confirmed, bringing the total to 424. At that point, no patient was on admission.

    As of August 14, 37 new cases had been reported, raising the total to 409.

    According to earlier updates, 26 new cases were confirmed on August 11, increasing the total to 372, compared to 346 cases recorded on August 7.

    The national death toll, however, remained at two.

    Unfortunately, all 16 regions have now recorded Mpox cases, and the rising number of infections continues to raise concern.

    However, the country can breathe a sigh of relief as 33,600 vaccines have been secured by the Ministry of Health to strengthen Ghana’s fight against the Mpox virus.

    “This is another milestone in safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens,” the Ministry said in a Facebook post.

    Months ago, the Ministry of Health received a major boost in its fight against the ongoing Mpox outbreak following the donation of essential medical supplies and public health materials from the World Health Organization (WHO).

    During a brief ceremony held at the Ministry, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s public health response and commended the country’s leadership in managing the outbreak.

    The donation, valued at USD 36,700, included personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline health workers, 780 GeneXpert cartridges to improve diagnostic capacity, and 9,000 risk communication posters along with 40 pull-up banners to support community sensitisation efforts.

    The PPE will help enhance infection prevention and control, while the GeneXpert cartridges are expected to facilitate rapid and accurate testing, especially at decentralised levels.

    The risk communication materials aim to promote public awareness and behavioural change.

    The Minister for Health, Honourable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who received the items on behalf of the government, thanked the WHO for its continued support.

    He indicated that Ghana is keen to adopt vaccines as part of its response strategy and called on the WHO to expedite assistance in that regard. He also encouraged the public to maintain good hygiene practices and seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, or skin rashes.

    He noted that the Ministry remains committed to strengthening public health systems and working closely with partners to contain the outbreak and protect the health of all Ghanaians.

    Health officials explained that Mpox spreads primarily through direct contact with an infected person. Common symptoms include fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes.

    The Ghana Health Service urged the public to avoid close interactions with symptomatic individuals, wash hands regularly with soap and water, refrain from touching the face frequently, and wear masks when caring for infected persons.

    The Service added that it is closely monitoring the outbreak, conducting contact tracing, and intensifying public education with the support of regional health directorates.

    Following the detection of 20 new infections as of Wednesday, July 30, the Ghana Health Service announced on Monday, July 27, the death of one of the infected persons.

    Since Ghana recorded its first Mpox case in June 2022, with five confirmed cases, this was the first reported death associated with the disease.

    In its regular updates, the GHS stated that as of July 22, 23 new cases had been recorded, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 257 at the time.

    By July 18, Ghana’s confirmed Mpox cases had risen to 234 following the detection of 16 new infections, compared to 218 cases after 21 new cases were recorded on July 14.

    The Ghana Health Service reported 197 confirmed cases after detecting 11 new infections as of July 11.

    The Service described the trend as a gradual yet manageable increase and called for sustained public vigilance.

    Although the number of cases continues to rise slightly, health officials maintain that the overall situation remains under control.

    While most infections are mild, the GHS emphasised that early medical attention is crucial to avoid complications.

    In response to the increase in cases, the Service has intensified information campaigns nationwide to ensure citizens remain alert and cautious. Preventive actions such as avoiding contact with infected individuals, maintaining hygiene, and seeking medical care early are being emphasised.

    Officials stressed the importance of swift case detection and reporting, with field teams and community health workers actively monitoring developments.

    The public is encouraged to remain vigilant, follow health guidelines, and support national efforts to contain the spread of the virus.

    The government continues to engage international organisations to secure more vaccines to combat the rise in infections.

    The World Health Organisation (WHO) in Ghana recently provided laboratory PCR reagents to enhance diagnostic capacity. The donation was officially presented to the GHS at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory.

    Receiving the supplies on behalf of the GHS, Acting Deputy Director-General Dr Caroline Reindorf Amissah expressed gratitude for WHO’s ongoing logistical and technical support.

    “We promise from our end to do our bit, collaborate, go out there, and look for the cases to make sure this is really brought under control,” she said.

    WHO Country Representative Dr Fiona Braka emphasised that the organisation hopes the reagents will enable rapid diagnosis and timely public health responses.

    The supplies can test approximately 3,400 suspected Mpox samples, while additional kits will allow clade determination for 625 confirmed positive cases.

    Background on Mpox

    The monkeypox virus was first identified in Denmark in 1958 in monkeys kept for research, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

    The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, involving a nine-month-old boy.

    Following the eradication of smallpox in 1980 and the end of smallpox vaccination worldwide, Mpox gradually emerged in central, east, and west Africa.

    Since then, Mpox has been reported sporadically in these regions, Clade I (central and east Africa) and Clade II (west Africa).

    In 2003, an outbreak in the United States was linked to imported wild animals (Clade II).

    Since 2005, thousands of cases have been reported annually in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    In 2017, Mpox re-emerged in Nigeria and continues to spread among people across the country and in travellers to other destinations, according to the WHO.

  • China-Ghana to sign zero-tariff deal by end of October – President Mahama

    China-Ghana to sign zero-tariff deal by end of October – President Mahama

    Ghanaian businesses are set for a major boost as President John Mahama has announced the signing of a zero-tariff deal with China.

    This follows an announcement by the Chinese government of its intention to offer zero tariffs to some fifty-three African countries that maintain diplomatic ties with the Asia superpower, which forms part of China’s broader push to position itself as Africa’s principal trade and investment partner amid escalating global trade tensions.

    In a letter released on June 11 to African foreign ministers, Chinese President Xi Jinping said the zero-tariff policy aims to deepen China-Africa cooperation, promote modernisation across the continent, and support African countries in expanding their exports to China. 

    Speaking during a bilateral meeting (Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, October 13, President Mahama lauded China’s confidence in Africa.

    “I’m pleased to inform you that we have reached an agreement in principle, and both sides have targeted the end of October to formally sign off on the zero-tariff framework.

    China’s decision to grant zero-tariff access to Ghanaian and other African products signals strong confidence in the partnership between China and Africa,” he noted.

    He highlighted that the initiative plays a major role in boosting export growth.

    “The policy opens vast new markets for Ghanaian exporters, agro-processors, and manufacturers, creating fresh opportunities to expand trade and boost industrial growth,” he added.

    At the same event, Chinese President Xi Jinping reflected on the long-standing relationship between China and Ghana, marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Ghana in building a modern economy. He expressed his outfit’s readiness to work with Ghana to deepen cooperation across all sectors and to make greater contributions toward building an all-weather China–Africa community with a shared future in the new era.

    Xi emphasised that China and Ghana should jointly implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, explore diversified cooperation models and expand collaboration in mining, energy, infrastructure, agriculture and fisheries, thereby promoting high-quality development of bilateral cooperation. He said the two sides should also jointly uphold the Global Governance Initiative and work toward building a fairer and equitable global governance system.

    Mahama said the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women is of great significance and demonstrates China’s leadership in advancing the cause of women worldwide. 

    He affirmed that Ghana firmly adheres to the one-China principle and looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in trade, digital economy, infrastructure, energy, mining and people-to-people exchanges. 

    His comments follow US President Donald Trump’s increased tariffs on imports from African countries, which include Ghana. In a speech delivered on April 2, during Trump’s “Liberation Day” at the White House, the leader of ‘Make America Great Again’ announced a 15% tariff on goods entering the U.S., as part of his broader “reciprocal trade” agenda.

    According to the Executive Order, “These modifications shall be effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m.”

    Speaking during his first presidential media encounter of his second term in office on September 10, President Mahama noted that the power to set tariffs lies significantly with the U.S Congress; however, President Donald Trump oversteps the boundaries.

    “The power to impose tariffs is that of Congress, but in this case, the US president [Donald Trump] always pushes the limit,” President Mahama said.

    According to him, African countries are under pressure due to the United States (U.S) President Donald Trump’s interest in quick deals rather than a long-term partnership. President Mahama stated that the U.S President’s recent trade policies have resulted in the “technical” collapse of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

    He mentioned that “Countries like Africa enjoyed zero tariffs in the US because we were in the developing world. It was a concession that the US gave. In comes President Trump. He has a more transactional mindset.

    “He says the US has been taken for granted for a long time so even countries like Ghana in Africa, he slapped a 15% tariff on us from a zero tariff”.

    “The power to impose tariffs is that of Congress, but in this case, the US president [Donald Trump] always pushes the limit,” President Mahama said.

    According to him, African countries are under pressure due to the United States (U.S) President Donald Trump’s interest in quick deals rather than a long-term partnership. President Mahama stated that the U.S President’s recent trade policies have resulted in the “technical” collapse of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

    He mentioned that “Countries like Africa enjoyed zero tariffs in the US because we were in the developing world. It was a concession that the US gave. In comes President Trump. He has a more transactional mindset.

    “He says the US has been taken for granted for a long time so even countries like Ghana in Africa, he slapped a 15% tariff on us from a zero tariff”.

    AGOA was established to give certain African countries special trade access to the U.S. market. It was enacted on May 18, 2000 by the 106th United States Congress and signed into law by President Bill Clinton.

    Although AGOA was initially set to expire in 2008, the U.S. has extended it multiple times, with the current extension running through 2025.

    But President Mahama has emphasized that its renewal is uncertain following President Donald Trump’s steep tariff on goods exported to the U.S by African exporters.

    “AGOA is technically dead. It was due for renegotiation in September, but there is no way with this 15% tariff, AGOA is going to be renewed. We are just watching carefully,” he added.

    On Friday, July 31, imposed a fifteen percent (15%) ad valorem tariff on Ghana’s exports. This means that Ghanaian goods shipped to the U.S. will be charged a 15% tax based on their price. Thus, a product at $100 would be $115 as a result of the $15 tariff.

    The policy is expected to impact many countries, including Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Mozambique, Mauritius, Malawi, Lesotho, and Madagascar.

    Also, countries such as South Africa and Libya face a 30 percent tariff, while Tunisia will face a 25 percent steeper duty. Meanwhile, the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) and Ghana’s Trade Ministry are yet to react to the new tariff.

  • Govt granted 343 mining licences in 2024, generating over one million jobs

    Govt granted 343 mining licences in 2024, generating over one million jobs

    A report from the office of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) has suggested a significant growth in Ghana’s mining and extractive industries in 2024, continuing their upward trend.

    According to the NDPC, the government granted 343 new mineral rights to different companies to support mining activities. Before the government granted the new mineral rights in 2024, the total number of mineral rights stood at 1,251. The new additions brought the cumulative total to 1,594 by the end of that year.

    Mineral rights in Ghana refer to the legal authority granted by the state to individuals or companies to explore, develop, and extract mineral resources from the land. These rights are issued and regulated by the Minerals Commission under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).

    The increase in mining licenses, according to NDPC, resulted in a significant increase in production of minerals such as gold, among other minerals, positioning Ghana atop among other neighbours in the region as Africa’s leading gold producer in 2024. Gold output rose sharply to 5,059,239 ounces, compared to 3,989,792 ounces in 2023, marking about 27 percent.

    Diamond, bauxite, and manganese also went up by 54.6 percent. Altogether, Ghana’s mineral production was valued at USD 11.9 billion in 2024.

    “ A total of 343 mineral rights were granted to companies in 2024. Illegal mining (Galamsey) remains a challenging environmental issue in 2024. Ghana was Africa’s leading gold producer in 2024 (2024: 5,059,239 ounces; 2023: 3,989,792 ounces). The total value of mineral production (comprising gold, diamond, bauxite, and manganese) experienced exceptional growth, increasing by 54.6 percent to USD 11.9 billion in 2024. A total of 1,135,242 jobs were created by the extractive industry in 2024”, parts of the report read.

    Given Ghana’s current unemployment rate—estimated at about 3.1% as of mid-2025, according to projections by Fitch Solutions and Trading Economics—the extractive sector has made a significant contribution through the jobs it created in 2024.

    While the industry’s growth has contributed significantly to the country’s economy, NDPC highlighted the damage currently being caused by the hike in illegal small-scale mining activities, popularly known as “galamsey”

    It said this illegal activity threatens sustainable development, even as more legal mining investments are made.

    Earlier this year, the government revoked all small-scale mining licences granted after December 7, 2024, due to procedural lapses in their issuance.

    Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced the decision during a joint press briefing on March 19, 2025, emphasizing the need for regulatory compliance in the sector.

    “Now, we are going full steam ahead to revoke all licences based on the findings. Even all licences, it’s mostly licences that were issued from December 7, that is hereby revoked, whether you have EPA licences or not, because the finding is very clear. Those licences from December 7 were rushed. Review processes were not followed; the right things were not done,” Mr. Buah stated.

    The move follows recommendations from key regulatory institutions, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Forestry Commission, and the Water Resources Commission. Authorities say the decision aligns with the government’s broader crackdown on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which has contributed to environmental degradation.

    Under Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which was passed in November 2022 during the tenure of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, the government had the authority to issue mining licences in forest reserves. During his administration, over 2,100 mining-related permits were granted, including a sharp increase of 318 licences in the final week of his presidency. The law faced heavy criticism for allegedly facilitating environmental destruction tied to unregulated mining activities.

    With the revocation now in effect, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is expected to implement stricter measures to ensure that future mining permits adhere to due process and environmental guidelines.

    The move, which authorities claimed formed part of the government’s efforts to crack down on illegal mining, which causes damage to our water bodies and vegetation.

    Galamsey is one major challenge and a cancer eating into the country’s ecosystem. The fight against it is a long-standing one with little to no positive and generally significant and impressive effect; however, past and present administrations remain relentless in the fight against the environmental demon.

    Ghana in August lost right gallant men who were en route to an event on anti-galamsey in a gory and heart-wrenching plane crash on August 6, in Adansi.

    They were burned beyond recognition while on their way to an event to dissuade Ghanaians from engaging in illegal mining activities. Their remains had to be collected in cocoa sacks for forensic examination.

    Consequently, their death heightened calls from officials, concerned citizens and other stakeholders on President Mahama to be fierce and stern in his fight against the menace.

    Stakeholders, including chiefs, religious leaders, as well as Civil Society organisations (CSOs), have heightened calls for the declaration of a state of emergency by the government.

    However, in response, President John Dramani Mahama stated that he can only declare a state of emergency when his government’s advisors give him the approval.

    During a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)on Friday, October 3, President Mahama said he cannot act ahead of his advisors, as that would go against established governance procedures.

    President Mahama pledged to honor scores of Ghanaians’ calls by declaring a state of emergency when his advisors give him the nod to do so.

    According to him, government advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralize or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies.

    “While we are fighting the menace, I am also saying we should uptake technology in order to protect the environment. So yes let’s fight the illegal mining but at the same time, let’s bring the new technology that will help us protect our environment.

    “Now with the elephant in the room, state of emergency, yes, I have the power to do it, but the president acts on the advice of the National Security Council, and as at now, this moment, the National Security Council believes that we can win the fight against galamsey, declaring a state of emergency. I want to assure you that the day they advise me otherwise, that boss, now we need a state of emergency, I won’t hesitate,” he added.

    President Mahama believes that the country can eradicate the long-term canker if it deploys more troops as well as invests more resources in the fight. He concluded that the battle seems to be a long one, but his administration is committed to fighting it.

    “While we are fighting the menace, I am also saying we should uptake technology in order to protect the environment. So yes let’s fight the illegal mining but at the same time, let’s bring the new technology that will help us protect our environment.

    “Now with the elephant in the room, state of emergency, yes, I have the power to do it, but the president acts on the advice of the National Security Authority, and as at now, this moment, the National Security Authority believes that we can win the fight against galamsey, declaring a state of emergency. I want to assure you that the day they advise me otherwise, that boss, now we need a state of emergency, I won’t hesitate,” he added.

  • World Bank declares cedi as Africa’s best-performing currency in 2025

    World Bank declares cedi as Africa’s best-performing currency in 2025

    World Bank’s latest Africa Pulse Report has ranked the Ghana cedi as the best-performing currency since January until the eighth month of the year.

    Per the report, the cedi’s current status is a result of the gains in value since the beginning of the year, citing a twenty percent (20%)gain, making it the strongest performance among African currencies.

    The World Bank says the current performance of the cedi can be attributed to the government’s disciplined fiscal management, prudent monetary policy, rising export receipts, and renewed investor confidence following Ghana’s successful debt restructuring.

    The cedi’s appreciation, according to some analysts, has been remarkable given its heavy depreciation in the previous years. The pace of its recovery underscores the effectiveness of Ghana’s economic reforms and improved external conditions.

    While the cedi leads, the Zambian kwacha followed as the second-best performer, appreciating by 16 percent, strengthened by ongoing debt resolution efforts, lower oil import costs, and an improved supply of U.S. dollars.

    Currencies in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda also posted moderate gains, supported by stronger export growth and recovering capital inflows.

    According to the World Bank, the current performance of African currencies is a result of the weakening of the dollar, an increase in global commodity prices, and improved financial conditions. These factors have helped reduce inflation and brought more stability to markets across Africa.

    Despite the cedi’s current ranking by the global financial institution, it suffered a steep depreciation pressure in recent weeks, as businesses increased imports ahead of the festive season and election-related spending expectations rose.

    In response, the Bank of Ghana has announced plans to inject about $1.15 billion into the foreign exchange market to ease demand pressures and keep the cedi stable.

    It also announced that, effective October, it will begin selling portions of its gold reserves in exchange for foreign currency to banks and other market participants under its Domestic Gold Purchase Programme. This move is aimed at pumping some forex into the Ghanaian markets to salvage the fast-depreciating cedi.

    According to the BoG, only approved banks will be permitted to participate in the auctions, which are scheduled to take place every week.

    Speaking at a meeting with heads of commercial banks in Accra, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama, said the exercise will be fair and transparent to ensure equal access for all market participants.

    “Beginning October 2025, the Bank of Ghana will commence foreign exchange (FX) intermediation under the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme, with plans to sell up to US$1.15 billion for the month. These sales will be conducted on a spot basis through twice-weekly, price-competitive auctions open to all licensed banks,” he said.

    This comes after the central bank recorded the biggest sale of dollars since the start of 2025, with $243m FX forward auction, as reported by Joy Business.

    Consequently, banks predicted a stronger cedi. The Central Bank, about three weeks ago, sold its largest amount of U.S. dollars so far this year, $243 million, to commercial banks through a (7) seven-day FX forward auction.

    According to the data, BoG offered US$300 million; however, the commercial banks just accepted US$243 million, with a price range of GHC 12.15-12.40.

    Market watchers, however, warn that sustaining the currency’s gains will depend on Ghana’s continued commitment to fiscal discipline, export diversification, and structural reforms aimed at consolidating macroeconomic stability.

    Ghana’s total foreign exchange interventions since the height of its economic crisis in 2022 have exceeded $7.4 billion, according to International Monetary Fund (IMF) data analysed by JoyNews Research.

    The data reveal that the Bank of Ghana (BoG) injected about $1.9 billion into the forex market in 2022, the year of the crisis. Interventions fell to $1.1 billion in 2023 but surged again to $3 billion in 2024.

    In just the first quarter of 2025, the Central Bank added another $1.4 billion, signalling continued efforts to stabilise the local currency.

    Earlier this month, the BoG announced plans to inject $1.15 billion through its Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP). The move, aimed at easing pressure on the cedi, will bring this year’s total forex support to over $2 billion. The Bank said the funds would be disbursed through twice-weekly, price-competitive spot auctions accessible to all licensed banks.

    Following the announcement, the cedi appreciated by 2.5%, reflecting renewed investor confidence in the Central Bank’s strategy.

    Analysts expect the local currency to maintain its strength against the US dollar through the final quarter of 2025, as offshore FX inflows and a liquid interbank market offset high dollar demand from the energy, services, and manufacturing sectors.

    Dollar interventions have surged sharply in the past two fiscal years, accounting for more than 60% of total injections over the last four years. These interventions have supported one of the strongest performances of the Ghana cedi in recent memory.

  • We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco – President Mahama to Black Stars

    We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco – President Mahama to Black Stars

    President John Dramani Mahama hopes the Black Stars will aim higher beyond their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has urged the team to emulate Morocco and, in broader terms, envision doing more.

    He cited Morocco as a model because they made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros courtesy of a decisive goal from Mohammed Kudus in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    Referring to an unforgettable situation in the history of Ghana football, where Asamoah’s penalty miss cost Ghana’s place in the semi-finals, he urged the team, 

    “We must follow in the footsteps of Morocco by going beyond the semi-finals and, who knows, with fingers crossed, bring the World Cup trophy home to make Ghana and Africa proud”.

    He further went on to call on Ghanaians to support the team without any bias.

    “We must all rally behind the Black Stars. We must support them to the hilt. Let’s not bring in any partisan or ethnic considerations. Let’s give them our full support,” he added.

    The Black Stars will discover their group-stage opponents during the World Cup draw on December 5, 2025, at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

    Following a group-stage exit at their previous World Cup in Qatar, Ghana now hopes to make a lasting impact in the 2026 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    In a congratulatory message shared via video on the football governing body’s Instagram, Infantino praised the four-time African champions for their achievement and expressed excitement about their return to the world stage.

    “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

    “We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

    “See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”

    Ghana’s qualification marks their fifth appearance at the World Cup, following previous campaigns in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022.

    Among African nations, only Cameroon (8), Morocco (7), Tunisia (7), and Nigeria (6) have made more appearances on the world stage.

    The Black Stars accrued 25 points after their final World Cup qualifier. Initially sitting in third place after two rounds of matches, Ghana began their campaign against Madagascar on November 17, 2023, securing a 1–0 home victory on Matchday 1, before suffering a 1–0 away loss to Comoros on Matchday 2, November 21, 2023. The team bounced back strongly on March 21, delivering a convincing 4–0 win over Chad.

    This set the tone for another win against Madagascar on March 24, 2025. Ghana defeated Madagascar 3–0 in Morocco, with a brace from Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus bringing the team’s points to 15. They remained atop the group until their last game yesterday

    Ghanaians were in high anticipation to know whether the Black Stars would qualify for the World Cup following their heavy win against Chad on October 9, at N’Djamena, hence there was a mad rush for tickets to the Black Stars’ clash against Comoros.

    To reduce congestion at the Accra Stadium, where the game happened, the National Sports Authority (NSA) announced a reduction in the number of tickets it will made available.

    The Accra Sports Stadium, which has a capacity of about 40,000, the NSA boss said, “will have its attendance capped to 35,000, with extra fan parks created to reduce congestion in the stadium”.

    He disclosed a media engagement on Thursday, October 9, in Accra, during a press engagement where he addressed questions and clarified misconceptions surrounding the organisation and preparations ahead of the match.

    According to him, the ticket prices for Sunday include VVIP GH₵1,000, the popular Stand will cost GH₵50, and GH₵100 for centre line, GH₵25 for lower VIP and GH₵500 for upper VIP.

    “The stadium can hold just under 40,000 people, but we’re not printing tickets for full capacity. A total of 35,000 tickets will be printed. Ticket samples are here, and there will be security features added”, Mr Ampofo noted.

    Also, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation earlier announced the ticket prices, explaining that “the pricing structure is designed to make the game accessible to fans from all walks of life.”

    Ghana’s last home match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali on September 8 was marked by chaotic ticket sales, with fans crowding the stadium gates in a last-minute rush to buy tickets on the match day.

    To prevent a recurrence, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah confirmed that ticket sales for the upcoming match against Comoros will officially close at 3 pm on Sunday, even though the match starts at 7 pm.

    According to him, “Please note that on match day, tickets will not be sold after 3 pm. The match is at 7 pm, and the reason for this is that we don’t want the challenges we had the last time, where fans were crowding around the stadium looking to purchase tickets. It must be very clear. We intend not to have a rush as we did in the Ghana versus Chad game, where a lot of fans came to the gates without tickets, intending to buy tickets on the day.”

    “Almost everybody wants to be present to watch the Black Stars game on Sunday. That is the reason why we’ve called you, to give you an update on what we’re doing and to ensure that the right communication goes out there. I’ve read and seen so many things, and it’s a bit worrying because if we’re not careful, we may have too many people showing up, claiming they were told to come”

  • Kylian says Ronaldo gives him advice, it has helped him

    Kylian says Ronaldo gives him advice, it has helped him

     Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé has never hidden his admiration for former Real Madrid player and Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo.

    In his recent interview, the French-born player expressed his excitement about his relationship with his idol, stating that the 40-year-old Portuguese sometimes advises him.  

    Speaking in an interview with Movistar broadcast on Sunday, October 12, Kylian stated that “Cristiano has always been a role model for me. I’m lucky enough to talk to him; he gives me advice, and he’s helped me”

    He continued that Ronaldo remains the Spanish club’s “number one”. According to him, although Ronaldo has parted ways with Real Madrid, he remains a big example to the current crop of players in the dressing room.

    “I think in Madrid, he’s still the number one. He’s the reference point for Real Madrid players, who have done a lot”, he said. 

    Fans at Santiago Bernabéu still dream of their hero, Cristiano, Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer in La Liga, with 311 goals in 292 matches between 2009 and 2018. He scored 450 goals in nine seasons at Madrid, winning 16 trophies, including four Champions Leagues.

    “The fans still dream about Cristiano,” Mbappe stated.

    Despite his admiration for his childhood idol, Mbappe added, “…but I want to follow my own path.” In June 2024, when Kylian joined Real Madrid, he shared a picture of himself and Ronaldo with a caption,” A dream come true. I’m thrilled and proud to join my dream club, Real Madrid.”

    Mbappé scored 44 times in his debut season at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2024-25, and already has 14 goals to his name in this campaign.

    Despite Mbappé’s goalscoring, Madrid ended last season without winning a major trophy. They’re currently top of LaLiga after eight games, two points clear of Barcelona, despite suffering a heavy 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid last month.

    Reacting to his side’s defeat, the former PSG forward admitted Atletico’s dominance in terms of duels, which makes it difficult to win such a game.

    “They [Atletico] came to play a derby, and us… We did too, but without putting any intensity into the duels, the crosses,” Mbappé said on Sunday. “They won all the duels. It’s hard to win a game like that.”

    The World is currently preparing for football’s greatest tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted in three different countries, i.e., the USA, Canada and Mexico.

    In France’s qualifiers against Azerbaijan on Friday, October 10, Kylian Mbappé notched one out of the three goals, but was substituted later on with an ankle knock, having suffered a similar injury with Madrid last weekend.

    France are among the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup, but Mbappé admitted he sees Spain as a serious contender.

    “For me, [Spain] are the best team in Europe right now,” Mbappé- who won the 2018 World Cup, and was a runner-up in 2022 — said. “But the World Cup is different.”

    Following his move from PSG to Real Madrid, rumours began to swirl and spread about his relationship with Brazilian-born forward Vinicius Jr, but he explained that they are now much better this year s they have gotten to know each other well.

    “Two famous players in the same team — that sells newspapers,” Mbappé said, when asked about Vinícius. “But the truth is, I have a very good relationship with Vinicius. It’s much better this year, because we know each other better,” he said.

    This is not the first time Kylian has addressed rumours of an estranged relationship with his teammate Vinicius. About six months ago, Kylian Mbappé talked about his bond with Vinícius during a detailed interview on Spanish TV station La Sexta, which was his first personal interview since joining Real Madrid.

    Many questions were asked, particularly by fans and pundits, about whether two high-profile forwards could coexist without ego clashes in the same attack. Other rumours suggested that Vinícius was making plans to exit Real Madrid over limited play time, hinting at rotation concerns under coach Xabi Alonso, with Vinícius occasionally benched while Mbappé thrived.

    However, Mbappe shot down these claims, explaining that he couldn’t imagine the team without Vini Jr.

    “The relationship [with Vini] is good,” Mbappé said. “It’s normal that people want to talk about us, because we’re two famous players who can make a difference, but I came to Real Madrid with the idea of playing with Vini.

    “I can’t imagine Madrid without Vini. I always had the idea of playing with him. We play well together. We can always do better, the fans always expect more of us, and it’s normal, but I think we play well together and now at this stage of the season, we’re going to try to help Madrid as much as we can.”

    Meanwhile, Cristiano has set a new record as the first footballer to be listed as a billionaire according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

    Bloomberg said the Portugal prodigy’s net worth an estimated $US1.4bn.

    The billoanire journey began when the former Man Utd striker joined the Arabian side, Al-Nassr.

    The Portugal captain joined the Riyadh-based team in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United following a fall-out with then manager Erik-ten Hag and having criticised the club during an interview with Piers Morgan.

    The 40-year-old striker’s financial ascent comes after he signed a new contract with Saudi side Al-Nassr in June, reportedly worth more than $400m.

    In June, he confirmed an extension of contract with Al-Nassr in a £172m-per-year deal.

    In an X post on June 26, he confirmed another stint with Al-Nassr, saying, “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”

    The club also confirmed his stay on X in a post which reads, ” Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027.”

    Bloomberg said that Ronaldo earned more than $550m in salary between 2002 and 2023, supplemented by a decade-long Nike deal worth nearly $18m annually, and lucrative endorsements with Armani, Castrol and others that added more than $175m to his fortune.

    Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr from Manchester United in 2023 had already made him the highest-paid player in football history, with an annual salary of £177m ($US358m), plus bonuses and a reported 15% share in his Saudi Arabian club.

    Ronaldo’s billionaire status places him among a rare group of athletes that includes basketball greats Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and LeBron James, golfer Tiger Woods and tennis player Roger Federer.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo remains Real Madrid’s “number one” – Mbappe

    Cristiano Ronaldo remains Real Madrid’s “number one” – Mbappe

    French-born footballer and Real Madrid striker, Kylian Mbappé, insists that Cristiano Ronaldo remains the Spanish club’s “number one,” and also his all-time role model.

    He intends to learn from him, adding that the Al-Nassr captain occasionally offers him advice.

    Kylian Mbappé made these remarks in an interview broadcast by Movistar TV on Sunday, October 12. According to him, while Ronaldo has parted ways with Real Madrid, he remains a big example to the current crop of players in the dressing room.

    “Cristiano has always been a role model for me,” Mbappé told Movistar in an interview broadcast on Sunday. “I’m lucky enough to talk to him; he gives me advice, and he’s helped me. I think in Madrid, he’s still the number one. He’s the reference point for Real Madrid players, who have done a lot. 

    Fans at Santiago Bernabéu still dream of their hero, Cristiano, Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer in La Liga, with 311 goals in 292 matches between 2009 and 2018. He scored 450 goals in nine seasons at Madrid, winning 16 trophies, including four Champions Leagues.

    “The fans still dream about Cristiano,” Mbappe stated.

    Despite his admiration for his childhood idol, Mbappe added, “…but I want to follow my own path.”

    Mbappé scored 44 times in his debut season at the Santiago Bernabéu in 2024-25, and already has 14 goals to his name in this campaign.

    Despite Mbappé’s goalscoring, Madrid ended last season without winning a major trophy. They’re currently top of LaLiga after eight games, two points clear of Barcelona, despite suffering a heavy 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid last month.

    Reacting to his side’s defeat, the former PSG forward admitted Atletico’s dominance in terms of duels, which makes it difficult to win such a game.

    “They [Atletico] came to play a derby, and us… We did too, but without putting any intensity into the duels, the crosses,” Mbappé said on Sunday. “They won all the duels. It’s hard to win a game like that.”

    The World is currently preparing for football’s greatest tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted in three different countries, i.e., the USA, Canada and Mexico.

    In France’s qualifiers against Azerbaijan on Friday, October 10, Kylian Mbappé notched one out of the three goals, but was substituted later on with an ankle knock, having suffered a similar injury with Madrid last weekend.

    France are among the favourites to win the 2026 World Cup, but Mbappé admitted he sees Spain as a serious contender.

    “For me, [Spain] are the best team in Europe right now,” Mbappé- who won the 2018 World Cup, and was a runner-up in 2022 — said. “But the World Cup is different.”

    Following his move from PSG to Real Madrid, rumours began to swirl and spread about his relationship with Brazilian-born forward Vinicius Jr, but he explained that they are now much better this year s they have gotten to know each other well.

    “Two famous players in the same team — that sells newspapers,” Mbappé said, when asked about Vinícius. “But the truth is, I have a very good relationship with Vinicius. It’s much better this year, because we know each other better,” he said.

    This is not the first time Kylian has addressed rumours of an estranged relationship with his teammate Vinicius. About six months ago, Kylian Mbappé talked about his bond with Vinícius during a detailed interview on Spanish TV station La Sexta, which was his first personal interview since joining Real Madrid.

    Many questions were asked, particularly by fans and pundits, about whether two high-profile forwards could coexist without ego clashes in the same attack. Other rumours suggested that Vinícius was making plans to exit Real Madrid over limited play time, hinting at rotation concerns under coach Xabi Alonso, with Vinícius occasionally benched while Mbappé thrived.

    However, Mbappe shot down these claims, explaining that he couldn’t imagine the team without Vini Jr.

    “The relationship [with Vini] is good,” Mbappé said. “It’s normal that people want to talk about us, because we’re two famous players who can make a difference, but I came to Real Madrid with the idea of playing with Vini.

    “I can’t imagine Madrid without Vini. I always had the idea of playing with him. We play well together. We can always do better, the fans always expect more of us, and it’s normal, but I think we play well together and now at this stage of the season, we’re going to try to help Madrid as much as we can.”

    Meanwhile, Cristiano has set a new record as the first footballer to be listed as a billionaire according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

    Bloomberg said the Portugal prodigy’s net worth an estimated $US1.4bn.

    The billoanire journey began when the former Man Utd striker joined the Arabian side, Al-Nassr.

    The Portugal captain joined the Riyadh-based team in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United following a fall-out with then manager Erik-ten Hag and having criticised the club during an interview with Piers Morgan.

    The 40-year-old striker’s financial ascent comes after he signed a new contract with Saudi side Al-Nassr in June, reportedly worth more than $400m.

    In June, he confirmed an extension of contract with Al-Nassr in a £172m-per-year deal.

    In an X post on June 26, he confirmed another stint with Al-Nassr, saying, “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”

    The club also confirmed his stay on X in a post which reads, ” Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027.”

    Bloomberg said that Ronaldo earned more than $550m in salary between 2002 and 2023, supplemented by a decade-long Nike deal worth nearly $18m annually, and lucrative endorsements with Armani, Castrol and others that added more than $175m to his fortune.

    Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr from Manchester United in 2023 had already made him the highest-paid player in football history, with an annual salary of £177m ($US358m), plus bonuses and a reported 15% share in his Saudi Arabian club.

    Ronaldo’s billionaire status places him among a rare group of athletes that includes basketball greats Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and LeBron James, golfer Tiger Woods and tennis player Roger Federer.

  • Congratulations! – FIFA boss to Ghana after 2026 World Cup qualification 

    Congratulations! – FIFA boss to Ghana after 2026 World Cup qualification 

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana for securing its ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    In a congratulatory message shared via video on the football governing body’s Instagram, Infantino praised the four-time African champions for their achievement and expressed excitement about their return to the world stage.

    “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

    “We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

    “See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”

    Ghana’s qualification marks their fifth appearance at the World Cup, following previous campaigns in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022.

    Among African nations, only Cameroon (8), Morocco (7), Tunisia (7), and Nigeria (6) have made more appearances on the world stage.

    The Black Stars accrued 25 points after their final World Cup qualifier. Initially sitting in third place after two rounds of matches, Ghana began their campaign against Madagascar on November 17, 2023, securing a 1–0 home victory on Matchday 1, before suffering a 1–0 away loss to Comoros on Matchday 2, November 21, 2023. The team bounced back strongly on March 21, delivering a convincing 4–0 win over Chad.

    This set the tone for another win against  Madagascar on March 24, 2025. Ghana defeated Madagascar 3–0 in Morocco, with a brace from Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus bringing the team’s points to 15. They remained atop the group until their last game yesterday

    Ghanaians were in high anticipation to know whether the Black Stars would qualify for the World Cup following their heavy win against Chad on October 9, at N’Djamena, hence there was a mad rush for tickets to the Black Stars’ clash against Comoros.

    To reduce congestion at the Accra Stadium, where the game happened, the National Sports Authority (NSA) announced a reduction in the number of tickets it will made available.

    The Accra Sports Stadium, which has a capacity of about 40,000, the NSA boss said, “will have its attendance capped to 35,000, with extra fan parks created to reduce congestion in the stadium”.

    He disclosed a media engagement on Thursday, October 9, in Accra, during a press engagement where he addressed questions and clarified misconceptions surrounding the organisation and preparations ahead of the match.

    According to him, the ticket prices for Sunday include VVIP GH₵1,000, the popular Stand will cost GH₵50, and GH₵100 for centre line, GH₵25 for lower VIP and GH₵500 for upper VIP.

    “The stadium can hold just under 40,000 people, but we’re not printing tickets for full capacity. A total of 35,000 tickets will be printed. Ticket samples are here, and there will be security features added”, Mr Ampofo noted.

    Also, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation earlier announced the ticket prices, explaining that “the pricing structure is designed to make the game accessible to fans from all walks of life.”

    Ghana’s last home match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali on September 8 was marked by chaotic ticket sales, with fans crowding the stadium gates in a last-minute rush to buy tickets on the match day.

    To prevent a recurrence, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah confirmed that ticket sales for the upcoming match against Comoros will officially close at 3 pm on Sunday, even though the match starts at 7 pm.

    According to him, “Please note that on match day, tickets will not be sold after 3 pm. The match is at 7 pm, and the reason for this is that we don’t want the challenges we had the last time, where fans were crowding around the stadium looking to purchase tickets. It must be very clear. We intend not to have a rush as we did in the Ghana versus Chad game, where a lot of fans came to the gates without tickets, intending to buy tickets on the day.”

    “Almost everybody wants to be present to watch the Black Stars game on Sunday. That is the reason why we’ve called you, to give you an update on what we’re doing and to ensure that the right communication goes out there. I’ve read and seen so many things, and it’s a bit worrying because if we’re not careful, we may have too many people showing up, claiming they were told to come”

  • Otto Addo sets record as first Black Stars coach to take Ghana to World Cup twice

    Otto Addo sets record as first Black Stars coach to take Ghana to World Cup twice

    Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has set a new record in the history of Ghanaian football. This achievement comes after he led the senior national team to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by three countries.

    In 2022, the former Borussia Dortmund talent coach also guided Ghana to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, following the team’s failure to reach the 2018 edition held in Russia.

    Ghana sealed their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros in their final Group I qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, marking the country’s fifth appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

    Among African nations, only Cameroon (8), Morocco (7), Tunisia (7), and Nigeria (6) have made more appearances on the world stage.

    The Black Stars accrued 25 points after their final World Cup qualifier. Initially sitting in third place after two rounds of matches, Ghana began their campaign against Madagascar on November 17, 2023, securing a 1–0 home victory on Matchday 1, before suffering a 1–0 away loss to Comoros on Matchday 2, November 21, 2023.

    The team bounced back strongly on March 21, delivering a convincing 4–0 win over Chad.

    This set the tone for another win against  Madagascar on March 24, 2025. Ghana defeated Madagascar 3–0 in Morocco, with a brace from Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus bringing the team’s points to 15. They remained atop the group until their last game yesterday.

    Following their win yesterday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Ghana on their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    In a congratulatory message shared via video, Infantino praised the four-time African champions for their achievement and expressed excitement about their return to the world stage.

    “Congratulations to the Black Stars on reaching the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time in history. Your fans will bring colours, style and passion to the greatest FIFA World Cup ever in 20226 in Canada, Mexico and the United States. We expect that your team will establish more global stars to follow in the footsteps of the famous team that made the quarterfinals of the tournament in South Africa in 2010, but for now, enjoy this special moment, and we cannot wait to see who the Black Stars will face when we have the final tournament draw on the 5th of December.

    “See you very soon and well. Congratulations!”

    With Otto Addo at the helm, Ghana will now turn its attention to preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    Ghanaians were in high anticipation to know whether the Black Stars would qualify for the World Cup following their heavy win against Chad on October 9, at N’Djamena, hence there was a mad rush for tickets to the Black Stars’ clash against Comoros.

    To reduce congestion at the Accra Stadium, where the game happened, the National Sports Authority (NSA) announced a reduction in the number of tickets it will made available.

    The Accra Sports Stadium, which has a capacity of about 40,000, the NSA boss said, “will have its attendance capped to 35,000, with extra fan parks created to reduce congestion in the stadium”.

    He made the disclosure during a media engagement on Thursday, October 9, in Accra, during a press engagement where he addressed questions and clarified misconceptions surrounding the organisation and preparations ahead of the match.

    According to him, the ticket prices for Sunday include VVIP GH₵1,000, the popular Stand will cost GH₵50, and GH₵100 for centre line, GH₵ 25 for lower VIP and GH₵500 for upper VIP.

    “The stadium can hold just under 40,000 people, but we’re not printing tickets for full capacity. A total of 35,000 tickets will be printed. Ticket samples are here, and there will be security features added”, Mr Ampofo noted.

    Also, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation earlier announced the ticket prices, explaining that “the pricing structure is designed to make the game accessible to fans from all walks of life.”

    Ghana’s last home match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali on September 8 was marked by chaotic ticket sales, with fans crowding the stadium gates in a last-minute rush to buy tickets on the match day.
    To prevent a recurrence, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah confirmed that ticket sales for the upcoming match against Comoros will officially close at 3 pm on Sunday, even though the match starts at 7 pm.

    According to him, “Please note that on match day, tickets will not be sold after 3 pm. The match is at 7 pm, and the reason for this is that we don’t want the challenges we had the last time, where fans were crowding around the stadium looking to purchase tickets. It must be very clear. We intend not to have a rush as we did in the Ghana versus Chad game, where a lot of fans came to the gates without tickets, intending to buy tickets on the day.”

    “Almost everybody wants to be present to watch the Black Stars game on Sunday. That is the reason why we’ve called you, to give you an update on what we’re doing and to ensure that the right communication goes out there. I’ve read and seen so many things, and it’s a bit worrying because if we’re not careful, we may have too many people showing up, claiming they were told to come”

  • Double-track system to end by 2027 – GES

    Double-track system to end by 2027 – GES

    The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reiterated its intention to phase out the double-track system by 2027.

    The Double Track System is an academic calendar model introduced in Ghana’s Senior High Schools (SHS) by the Akufo-Addo-led administration in 2018 to manage overcrowding by splitting students into two alternating groups, Green and Gold, who attend school at different times.

    While it has been instrumental in managing the infrastructure deficit in the Free Senior High School programme, it came with several other challenges, including reduced contact hours for studies and increased burden on teachers, which affected academic results.

    Consequently, the Deputy Director-General for Quality and Access at the Ghana Education Service (GES), Dr Munawaru Issahaque, has announced that his outfit is currently engaging key stakeholders, including leading university professors and the Minister of Education, to gradually eliminate the double-track system in the next two years. 

    Speaking in an interview with Citi News on Sunday, October 12, Dr Issahaque said the initiative seeks to restore the traditional academic calendar and bring relief to parents and students.

    “We are very ready to reopen between October 18 and 20. We want our parents to also have some peace of mind. So, we have worked with key stakeholders behind the scenes to ensure that we revert the academic calendar and, with the Minister of Education’s approval, reverse the double-track system by 2027,” he said.

    Dr Issahaque explained that the process involves both material and financial considerations, emphasising that the Service is committed to a smooth transition. He also revealed that the automatic placement rate for this year’s Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) stood at 82 percent, reflecting successful placements for the majority of candidates.

    “If we have about 600,000 candidates and almost 593,000 passed, it means they have a chance of being placed in one school or another,” he noted.

    The Deputy Director-General further indicated that the GES is fully prepared to reopen senior high schools for Form One students, following the completion of the placement process. He advised parents to ensure their wards are adequately prepared for school reopening by fulfilling all prospectus requirements.

    “We all want the best for our children. The system offers seven school options, but many parents focus primarily on the first choice. That’s not a fair approach. Prepare your child to accept the school they are placed in and get ready to join their colleagues,” Dr Issahaque urged.

    About a month ago, the government earmarked GH¢1 billion to phase out the double-track system in senior high schools (SHSs).

    The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, announced this during the inauguration of a new staff accommodation facility at Accra Girls’ Senior High School.

    The massive investment, which will reflect in next year’s budget, will be sourced from the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund).

    Also, the government this year began including private Senior High Schools (SHSs) in the Free SHS programme through a pilot initiative involving 60 selected institutions as part of efforts to reduce congestion in public SHSs and phase out the Double Track System.

    In reaction to this, Former Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, who served under the Akufo-Addo-led government, has opposed the current administration’s measure to include private schools under the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy.

    Addressing the media on Monday, September 16, Dr Adutwum, now flagbearer of the NPP, questioned how such an initiative can be achieved given the heavy demand for certain schools.

    “I don’t understand the logic. The issue is not about lack of space in schools generally, but lack of space in the most desirable schools. So if you don’t get this right, you will prescribe the wrong solution. I don’t think private schools are the answer to the double-track system.

    “Parents have a right to select the schools they want, and everybody wants Category A. If you don’t have Category A private schools, parents are going to have nothing to do with it,” he said.

    However, the former Education Minister argues that it is impossible for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government to successfully roll out the policy, as it fails to address the real challenge.

    He believes that although the government’s intention is to reduce overcrowding in certain Senior High Schools, such an initiative would be a fiasco, since most students want to attend only the top-ranked schools.

    The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has criticized the government’s intentions to include private schools in the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, June 3, GNAT’s General Secretary, Thomas Musah, stressed that the proposed plans would place additional strain on public schools.

    He noted that the government must tread cautiously to prevent citing a lack of resources as a reason for discontinuing the programme.

    “We don’t want the situation where tomorrow the government will come and tell us that there are no resources to teach in the public schools, and so we are adding on to those that parents have to pay. Already we have been calling for parents who can pay fees to pay, or should be made to make some contributions.

    “We have not yet been able to get all these things done. So, adding on to the already existing burden will be serious, and I have some difficulty with it,” he stated.

    The anticipated extension of the Free SHS policy, according to Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, is a fulfillment of the government’s manifesto promise, aimed at ensuring eligible students gain admission without delays. “We believe strongly that in fulfilling this manifesto campaign promise, this is going to serve as an artery in helping us bring an end to the double-track system,” the deputy minister said.

    According to him, the Education Ministry has received encouraging feedback from private schools, many of which have expressed readiness to meet the standards and requirements of the Free SHS framework. “… and the eagerness of the private schools to participate, the private schools will deliver in their participation,” he assured.

    He added that this collaboration would not only help expand capacity but also ensure a more equitable distribution of educational opportunities across the country.

  • US stops issuing visas to Burkina Faso as govt refuses to take deportees

    US stops issuing visas to Burkina Faso as govt refuses to take deportees

    The Burkina Faso government, led by military leader Ibrahim Traore, has rejected the USA’s proposal to accept deportees. 

    Speaking during a televised interview on Burkina Faso’s national broadcaster RTB in Ouagadougou, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré, made the “blackmail” remark on Thursday, October 9.

    He disclosed that he has had several proposals from the Trump-led administration to become a hub for the illegal immigrants the US is deporting, but he insists they have rejected it several times.

    He said he had a meeting with the US Embassy on Wednesday in which he rejected the offer, which he says has been made repeatedly, to accept deportees.

    On Thursday, the US embassy in Burkina Faso’s capital, Ouagadougou, said on its website that it would temporarily pause issuing immigrant, tourist, student and business traveller visas.

    He said he had a meeting with the US Embassy on Wednesday in which he rejected the offer – he says has been made repeatedly – to accept deportees.

    On Thursday, the US embassy in Burkina Faso’s capital, Ouagadougou, said on its website that it would temporarily pause issuing immigrant, tourist, student and business traveller visas.

    In reaction, he quizzed, “Is this a way to put pressure on us? Is this blackmail? Whatever it is… Burkina Faso is a place of dignity, a destination, not a place of expulsion.”

    Due to the freeze on US visas to the Burkinabes, they now have to travel to the US embassy in the capital of neighbouring Togo.

    The US State Department and Department of Homeland Security have been contacted for comment.

    Donald Trump’s administration has turned to African countries as a destination to deport migrants to as part of its crackdown on immigration.

  • 2026 WCQ: Only 35k instead of 40k tickets will be made available for Ghana-Comoros game – NSA

    2026 WCQ: Only 35k instead of 40k tickets will be made available for Ghana-Comoros game – NSA

    The National Sports Authority (NSA) has announced a reduction in the number of tickets it will make available for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Comoros.

    The game scheduled for Sunday, October 12 at the Accra Sports Stadium, which has a capacity of about 40,000, will have its attendance capped to 35,000, with extra fan parks created to reduce congestion in the stadium”, the NSA CEO has announced.

    He made the disclosure during a media engagement on Thursday, October 9, in Accra, during a press engagement where he addressed questions and clarified misconceptions surrounding the organisation and preparations ahead of the match.

    According to him, the ticket prices for Sunday include VVIP GH₵1,000, the popular Stand will cost GH₵50, and GH₵100 for centre line, GH₵ 25 for lower VIP and GH₵500 for upper VIP.

    “The stadium can hold just under 40,000 people, but we’re not printing tickets for full capacity. A total of 35,000 tickets will be printed. Ticket samples are here, and there will be security features added”, Mr Ampofo noted.

    Also, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation earlier announced the ticket prices explaining that “the pricing structure is designed to make the game accessible to fans from all walks of life.”

    Ghana’s last home match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali on September 8 was marked by chaotic ticket sales, with fans crowding the stadium gates in a last-minute rush to buy tickets on the match day.
    To prevent a recurrence, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, confirmed that ticket sales for the upcoming match against Comoros will officially close at 3 pm on Sunday, even though the match starts at 7 pm.


    According to him, “Please note that on match day, tickets will not be sold after 3 pm. The match is at 7 pm, and the reason for this is that we don’t want the challenges we had the last time, where fans were crowding around the stadium looking to purchase tickets. It must be very clear. We intend not to have a rush as we did in the Ghana versus Chad game, where a lot of fans came to the gates without tickets, intending to buy tickets on the day.”


    “Almost everybody wants to be present to watch the Black Stars game on Sunday. That is the reason why we’ve called you, to give you an update on what we’re doing and to ensure that the right communication goes out there. I’ve read and seen so many things, and it’s a bit worrying because if we’re not careful, we may have too many people showing up, claiming they were told to come”.


    Mr Ampofo recounted how fans breached security to enter the stadium to see the match against Mali. Consequently, he noted that “the most important thing is to know how we are packaging this game, and security is our number one priority. This is because of past experiences with unpleasant situations where fans breached security barriers and rushed into the stadium. We don’t want that to happen again”.

    The Ghana Black Stars have moved a rank higher in the latest FIFA ranking. This comes after their recent performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

    The team have climbed from 76th to 75th. The Black Stars, after two matches with Chad and Mali, respectively, still sit atop Group 1 with 19 points, despite drawing with Chad on September 4 at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno in N’Djamena.

    However, they had a win in their clash with Mali. Black Stars led by a goal, securing for themselves three (3) extra points and a point from Chad’s draw.

    Despite the global improvement, their standing in Africa remains unchanged, with the four-time African champions still ranked 14th on the continent.

    In July, Ghana’s Black Stars fell about six places in FIFA’s rankings at the time.

    This was after 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 ranking released on July 10, Ghana ranked 76th in the FIFA World Rankings. 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 July ranking, Argentina still held its spot as number one, followed by Spain, France, and then England, with Brazil taking the fifth spot.

    In Africa, Morocco sat on top with its 12th position on the global level with 1,698.72 points. Senegal also moved a spot up from its 19th position last year. Egypt dropped to 34 on the global scale but remained 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 the 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.

  • 2026 WCQ: Sale of tickets for Ghana-Comoros clash to close at 3 pm on matchday

    2026 WCQ: Sale of tickets for Ghana-Comoros clash to close at 3 pm on matchday

    Ghana’s last home match in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali on September 8 was marked by chaotic ticket sales, with fans crowding the stadium gates in a last-minute rush to buy tickets on the match day.

    To prevent a recurrence, the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has confirmed that ticket sales for the upcoming match against Comoros will officially close at 3 pm on Sunday, even though the match starts at 7 pm. He made this revelation during a media engagement on Thursday, October 9, in Accra, during a press engagement.

    According to him, “Please note that on match day, tickets will not be sold after 3 pm. The match is at 7 pm, and the reason for this is that we don’t want the challenges we had the last time, where fans were crowding around the stadium looking to purchase tickets. It must be very clear. We intend not to have a rush as we did in the Ghana versus Chad game, where a lot of fans came to the gates without tickets, intending to buy tickets on the day.” 

    “Almost everybody wants to be present to watch the Black Stars game on Sunday. That is the reason why we’ve called you,  to give you an update on what we’re doing and to ensure that the right communication goes out there. I’ve read and seen so many things, and it’s a bit worrying because if we’re not careful, we may have too many people showing up, claiming they were told to come”.

    Mr Ampofo recounted how fans breached security to enter the stadium to see the match against Mali. Consequently, he noted that “the most important thing is to know how we are packaging this game, and security is our number one priority. This is because of past experiences with unpleasant situations where fans breached security barriers and rushed into the stadium. We don’t want that to happen again”. 

    The ticket prices for Sunday include VVIP GH₵1,000,  the popular Stand will cost GH₵50, and GH₵100

    for centre line, GH₵ 25 for lower VIP and  GH₵500 for upper VIP.  Although the stadium can host about 40,000 people, NSA intends to print 5000 fewer than the actual number, with extra fan parks created to reduce congestion in the stadium.

    The stadium can hold just under 40,000 people, but we’re not printing tickets for full capacity. A total of 35,000 tickets will be printed. Ticket samples are here, and there will be security features added”, Mr Ampofo continued.

    He addressed requests by institutions, organisations, among other groups who have requested to see the game for free. On his part, there is a need for the Authority to make some revenue to take care of the pitch, staff, as well as the media.

    The Black Stars are set to face Comoros at 7:00 PM GMT, needing just a point to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    “We’ve also received many requests from organisations, institutions, and clubs, including keep-fit clubs, wanting to come watch the match. Some say they are just 100 people, but that’s still a large number to come without tickets. Many people also want to watch for free, but that’s not possible. We must protect the stadium, the facility, those working there, the fans, the media, and all of you. That’s why we’ve taken these measures in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation”.

    Ghana’s Black Stars crushed the Central African Republic (CAR) 5–0 on October 8 in Morocco at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknes, securing a vital win in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

    They earned 4 more points in addition to their initial 19 points from 8 matches. Currently, to secure their ticket to the global tournament, the Black Stars must finish first in the group, and a win against Comoros on Sunday, October 12, would guarantee that.

    Before the Black Stars clash with CAR, the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, announced a change in the team’s camping arrangements.

    Black Stars, who were originally scheduled to assemble and camp in Accra, will now head straight to Morocco to camp for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR).

    The change in plans, according to the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, during an appearance on Woezor TV, is to allow the players more recovery time and to avoid logistical challenges.

    In the interview, he explained that the decision to camp directly in Morocco was taken after consultations to ensure players had adequate rest and to avoid the logistical strain of flying from Accra just days before the match

    “Various discussions have been held, and I can confirm that there is a proposal that the players will report to Morocco instead of Accra because we don’t have enough time to prepare for the game,” he said.

    He explained that since most of the players will be in action for their clubs over the weekend, they are expected to report to camp on Sunday, with the last group arriving on Monday.

    “These players will play for their respective clubs this weekend, so we are expecting that the players will report to camp on Sunday and then the last badge of players are expected on Monday since the game is on a Wednesday so if they reports to Accra, they will have to be flown to Morocco either on Monday or Tuesday which will be a lot of work because the players will not have enough time and space to rest in between the period and some of the players will be coming from a far disctance so the last meeting we had, we proposed that we will meet in Morocco instead of meeting in Accra before flying to Morocco and that what is being firmed up,” he added.

  • PAC: President Mahama to engage AG, Chief Justice on fast-tracking trials of public fund looters

    PAC: President Mahama to engage AG, Chief Justice on fast-tracking trials of public fund looters

    President Mahama has expressed his distaste for the slow pace of prosecution involving public servants implicated in the misuse of state funds. He referred to the Public Accounts Committee’s (PAC) regular sittings to review reports presented by the Auditor-General on the public accounts of Ghana.

    Over the years, despite numerous revelations of embezzlement, the President remains unsettled that many of the culprits continue to walk free.

    Speaking at the opening of the 12th Annual Conference of Chairpersons of Governing Boards and Councils, Chief Directors, and Chief Executives of the Public Service of Ghana, held in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, on Wednesday, October 8, he urged stakeholders to fast-track the prosecution of public officials implicated in financial misconduct.

    He said this would serve as a strong deterrent to prospective offenders.

    In light of this, his office will engage the Chief Justice, the Attorney General, and other relevant stakeholders to devise strategies to ensure swift punishment for those responsible for the misuse of public funds.

    “Recently, I have been watching the Public Accounts Committee, and it’s so pathetic. Why must we, every year, congregate at the Public Accounts Committee, and then you hear all kinds of atrocious things, recklessness with public funds and resources?

    “And so, I have a meeting on Thursday with the Chief Justice, the Attorney General, and others to find a final solution to this Auditor-General’s report, that persons who are found guilty of infractions, or do not follow due procedure, or lead to loss of public resources, must have a fast-track process to Nsawam; fast track, before you see, you are at Nsawam.

    Until we do that, until there’s a deterrent, we are going to come every year; they say total misappropriation and infractions found out by the Auditor-General are about 15 million cedis. Can you imagine what 15 million could do? And so, we are going to have a meeting,” he stated.

    He addressed the lack of full implementation of the committee, which charges the Audit Report Implementation Committees (ARICs) to follow up and ensure that due penalties are meted out to corrupt government officials following investigations by the PAC. However, he admitted that there was a genuine challenge that had inhibited the effective enforcement of these provisions, leading to persistent impunity in the misuse of public funds.

    “We haven’t fully implemented the Constitution. There’s a part of the Constitution that says after the Public Accounts Committee has had its say on the Auditor-General’s report, Parliament must set up a committee. What we don’t know is whether it should be a parliamentary committee or a committee necessarily made up of parliamentarians to implement the findings of the Auditor-General.

    Right now, what we use is the ARICs; every department is supposed to set up an ARIC, but once they have come from the Public Accounts Committee, nobody follows up on the recommendations that were given. So, Audit Report Implementation Committees are not working.

    We must find a way to create a deterrent so that they will be held responsible for the things they do. They will continue to do the same thing if not held accountable,” Mahama said.

    About PAC

    The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Ghana was established under Article 103 of the 1992 Constitution and formally constituted as part of Parliament’s Standing Committees. It has existed since the First Parliament of the Fourth Republic, which began in January 1993.

    Its mandate is to review reports presented by the Auditor-General on public accounts of Ghana, to summon ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to explain financial infractions and irregularities, and sometimes suggest sanctions, recoveries, and referrals for prosecution.

    However, since its establishment, PAC has reportedly had no documented record of ensuring the prosecution, and in other cases, the imprisonment of culprits, though its recommendations can trigger EOCO investigations or Attorney-General action.

    Over the years, the Committee has engaged several public institutions and heads of these institutions over reported financial irregularities, but little to no penalties have been documented, particularly to serve as a deterrent. It will be recalled that in 2017, PAC recommended the prosecution of officials at the National Sports Authority for misappropriating funds, but no confirmed convictions followed.

    In a separate incident in 2021, the committee traced non-existent staff under GETFund and MASLOC, yet again, no jail terms were recorded.

    In 2023, PAC recovered GH₵12.9 million, but this was through repayments, not criminal penalties.

    Meanwhile, more than GH¢12.9 billion in misappropriated public funds has been retrieved following a collaboration between PAC and the Auditor-General’s Department.

    Addressing the media on Wednesday, October 1, Chairperson of PAC, Abena Osei-Asare, attributed the development to the collective efforts between the Auditor-General’s Department and PAC.

    “One thing I am clear about is that what we are doing is yielding positive results. We have a report we will look at. Per the work of the Public Accounts Committee, and with the support of the Auditor-General, we have been able to retrieve GH¢12.9 billion. There is a whole report on that which we will be sharing with the public at the right time,” she said.

    According to her, the Committee will make the report’s details public at the appropriate time. The Committee is scheduled to resume its sittings on Monday, October 27. Various ministries, departments, and agencies have been interrogated by PAC in recent weeks to address infractions highlighted in the 2024 Auditor-General’s Report.

    Recently, the Director of Administration at Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), Dr Emmanuel Sena Kwasi Donkor, appeared before PAC after the AG’s report suggested that the hospital paid salaries amounting to GHS 1,449,000 to a deceased staff member over a period of 26 months.

    Dr Donkor affirmed the report, adding that the hospital has so far recovered GHS303,558.68 of the total amount. He explained that the banks previously handling the transactions had indicated through letters that they had ceased processing them.

    “We were able to recover some amounts. Before we got here, we had received letters from some banks stating that they had stopped transferring the funds to the government chest,” Dr Donkor told the Committee.

    He further urged Parliament to intervene and help the hospital recover the remaining funds. “Maybe at the end of this session, we will make a prayer to this House for the House to make an order directing those banks to transfer,” he said.

    Dr Donkor revealed that his outfit has submitted the names of the individuals implicated in the act to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for recovery. “EOCO has written back requesting the files of the people involved, and we have submitted them,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Ranking Member Samuel Atta-Mills raised serious concerns regarding the issue. “Habib Napare – date of separation was 2022. This guy had died. Didn’t you go to the funeral? And you validated this dead person for 26 months? And now you are coming to tell Parliament to do what?” Atta-Mills asked sharply.

    In the meantime, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has released a fifty-page report covering investigations and prosecutions carried out between January 1 and July 31 this year.

  • All govt SHSs to change meters to postpaid effective Jan 2026 – Edu Minister

    All govt SHSs to change meters to postpaid effective Jan 2026 – Edu Minister

     The Education Ministry has announced a transition from prepaid to postpaid meters across all government senior high schools nationwide.

    This was announced by the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, during a speech at the 63rd Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) in Sunyani, held on Wednesday, October 8

    The move comes following complaints from headteachers over the unreliability of prepaid meters and the challenges that disrupted power flow causes to academic work.

    Ahead of the Minister’s announcement, CHASS National President, Alhaji Yakub A.B. Abubakar, highlighted some of the challenges faced by these headteachers, citing electricity supply disruptions due to prepaid meters.

    In response, the Minister said “….And I’m happy to announce that, first January 2026, all CHASS schools will be on post-paid meters. My colleague Hon Jinapor asked me to convey to you that it is possible and that all CHASS schools will be moved to postpaid in order that you will not continue to endure the embarrassment of lights being off”, the minister disclosed.

    Over the years, the government-assisted Senior High Schools (SHS) have complained about the interruptions in power supply due to the use of pre-paid meters in the respective schools. Prepaid electricity meters work on a “pay-as-you-go” system, where users buy power in advance and consume only what they’ve paid for.

    Consequently, schools had to buy electricity upfront and later seek reimbursement from the Ministry of Education, and this created cash flow problems, especially when government funds were delayed.

    Headmasters emphasised that power interruptions affected students’ ability to study, especially during exam preparation periods.

    Schools like Mawuli SHS and Presec-Legon reported frequent blackouts when prepaid units ran out, disrupting evening studies and essential services. Mawuli SHS noted that “each time the units run out, we’re plunged into darkness,” which directly undermines academic performance.

    The Minister also disclosed that the Education Ministry has cleared the outstanding arrears owed to Primetime Limited, organisers of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz (NSMQ), from 2023 to date.

    The Ministry confirmed the disbursement in a statement released on Wednesday, October 8, issued by its Press Secretary, Hashim Haruna.

    The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to promoting science and mathematics education through consistent financial support and broader participation.

    “The Ministry of Education has released an amount of GH¢9.5 million to Primetime Company to clear all the arrears owed to the organisers of the National Science and Mathematics Quiz competition,” the statement read.

    The Ministry also announced that the competition will now include more schools.

    “The number of schools in the competition has now been expanded to 177, up from 124 this year,” the statement added.

    The organisers of NSMQ released the timetable for the competition on October 1, which included the launch and balloting set for October 7, as well as the preliminaries slated for October 13 to 17.

    Two days later, the one-eighth stage will kick off from October 19 to 21, followed by the quarter-finals from October 23 to 25. The semi-finals will take place on October 27, and the grand finale, where the champions will be announced, is scheduled for three days later.

    However, CHASS initially announced its intention to boycott this year’s competition, citing financial constraints. In a statement dated October 3 and signed by CHASS National Secretary Baro Primus, the organisation informed the quiz organisers that Ghanaian senior high schools would not participate in the balloting or subsequent stages of the 2025 NSMQ.

    They explained that many schools were unable to mobilise resources and prepare students, noting that government funds intended for such activities had not been released.

    “We regret to inform you that schools will not be able to participate in the balloting and subsequently the quiz competition due to non-availability of funds,” the letter read.

    The association highlighted its willingness to rescind this decision should the government release the requisite funds and pledged to inform organisers accordingly. CHASS also apologised for any inconvenience this decision may have caused.

    The National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) is an annual national competition for senior high schools in Ghana, focusing on science and mathematics topics.

    Since its inception in 1993, NSMQ has grown from featuring 32 schools regionally to a nationwide competition with broad participation.

    The competition is produced by Primetime Limited and is one of Ghana’s most celebrated academic programmes, promoting STEM education and academic excellence.

    Past challenges have included funding lapses and interruptions. Between 2010 and 2011, the programme paused operations due to a lack of sponsorship.

    In a thrilling showdown at the grand finale of the 2024 NSMQ, Mfantsipim School emerged victorious, narrowly edging out St. Augustine’s College by a single point to claim the prestigious trophy.

    With a final score of 47 points to St. Augustine’s 46 points, Mfantsipim’s win marks their third NSMQ championship title, having previously lifted the trophy in 1999 and 2014.

    The competition, held in Cape Coast, saw Mfantsipim School, St. Augustine’s College, and Keta Senior High Technical School (SHTS) go head-to-head in a tense five-round contest. Each round was filled with suspense as the three schools showcased their knowledge, agility, and composure under pressure.

    The opening rounds established Mfantsipim and St. Augustine’s as front-runners, with both schools tied at 24 points in Round 1. In Round 2, Mfantsipim began to inch ahead, scoring 31 points compared to St. Augustine’s 34 points and Keta SHTS’s 12 points. By Round 3, the “Problem of the Day,” St. Augustine’s led with 5 out of 10 points, while Keta SHTS and Mfantsipim followed with 4 and 3 points, respectively.

    The gap between the top two contenders remained razor-thin through Round 4, where St. Augustine’s held a slight edge at 46 points to Mfantsipim’s 44 points, while Keta SHTS scored 26 points. Entering the final round, the stakes were high, and Mfantsipim managed to outscore St. Augustine’s by two points to secure the ultimate victory at 47 points.

    Keta SHTS, despite a strong showing, concluded the contest with 32 points. The impressive performances from each school kept the audience on the edge of their seats throughout, culminating in Mfantsipim’s historic win by a single point.

    As champions of the 2024 NSMQ, Mfantsipim School celebrates not only their intellectual prowess but also the resilien


  • CR7 joins billionaire ranks, sets record as first footballer – Bloomberg

    CR7 joins billionaire ranks, sets record as first footballer – Bloomberg

    Al-Nassr captain and former Man Utd player, Cristiano Ronaldo, has set a new record as the first footballer to be listed as a billionaire according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

    Bloomberg said the Portugal prodigy’s net worth an estimated $US1.4bn.

    The billoanire journey began when the former Man Utd striker joined the Arabian side,  Al-Nassr. 

    The Portugal captain joined the Riyadh-based team in December 2022 after leaving Manchester United following a fall-out with then manager Erik-ten Hag and having criticised the club during an interview with Piers Morgan. 

    The 40-year-old striker’s financial ascent comes after he signed a new contract with Saudi side Al-Nassr in June, reportedly worth more than $400m.

    In June, he confirmed an extension of contract with Al-Nassr in a £172m-per-year deal.

    In an X post on June 26, he confirmed another stint with Al-Nassr, saying, “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”

    The club also confirmed his stay on X in a post which reads, ” Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027.”

    Bloomberg said that Ronaldo earned more than $550m in salary between 2002 and 2023, supplemented by a decade-long Nike deal worth nearly $18m annually, and lucrative endorsements with Armani, Castrol and others that added more than $175m to his fortune.

    Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr from Manchester United in 2023 had already made him the highest-paid player in football history, with an annual salary of £177m ($US358m), plus bonuses and a reported 15% share in his Saudi Arabian club.

    Argentina and Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has earned more than $600 million in pre-tax salary during his career.

    Ronaldo’s billionaire status places him among a rare group of athletes that includes basketball greats Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and LeBron James, golfer Tiger Woods and tennis player Roger Federer.

    Ronaldo suggested he is not considering retirement anytime soon.

    “I still have a passion for this,” he said at the Portugal Football Globes gala on Tuesday. “My family says it’s time to quit, and they ask me why I want to score 1000 goals if I’ve already scored 900-something. But I don’t think that way inside.

    “I’m still producing good things, I’m helping my club and the national team. Why not continue? I am sure that when I finish, I will leave full because I gave everything of myself. I know I don’t have many years left to play, but the few I have left, I have to enjoy them to the fullest.”

    Although Al-Nassr have not added to their nine domestic titles during Ronaldo’s time at the club, CR 7 has added to the club a barrage of goals.

    Ronaldo has scored 99 goals in 111 appearances for Al-Nassr,also winning bagged two Golden Boot awards during his time there, including a record-breaking 35-goal season in 2023–24.

    Ronaldo scored 35 times in 41 matches across all competitions last term and was the league’s top scorer for a second consecutive season.

    Having helped Portugal win the Uefa Nations League a little over two weeks ago, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, Sporting and Juventus forward will almost certainly now be targeting a sixth World Cup appearance next summer.

    Fifa president Gianni Infantino raised the prospect of Ronaldo joining a team involved in the Club World Cup after Al-Nassr failed to qualify for the extended tournament which is being held in the United States.

    Meanwhile, Ronaldo said he had received offers from participating teams but turned them down because hebelieves he would be a champion in Saudi Arabia.

    “My goal, it’s always to win something important for Al Nassr. And of course I still believe in that. This is why I renewed the two years more because I believe that I will be a champion in Saudi Arabia,” he noted.

    He also lauded the Saudi Pro League’s over the years saying, “Of course, we are still improving but I believe that at this moment we are in the top five [leagues in the world] already. I still believe that we will continue to improve… I am happy because I know that the league is very competitive” he concluded.

    The decision to stay until at least 2027, which is certain to be highly lucrative, appears to rule out any future prospect of Ronaldo returning to play at the highest level in Europe.

    It remains to be seen who will be leading the first team at Al-Nassr going forward, after former AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli left the club this week.

  • Expedite prosecution process for public fund looters – Mahama charges PAC

    Expedite prosecution process for public fund looters – Mahama charges PAC

    President John Dramani Mahama has expressed frustration over the ‘clichéd’ routine of the Public Accounts Committee’s (PAC) sittings to question suspected looters of public funds and those involved in financial irregularities.

    According to him, the PAC’s accountability forums held over the years have become mere formalities, as persons found complicit in the embezzlement of state funds are often allowed to go scot-free.

    Speaking at the opening of the 12th Annual Conference of Chairpersons of Governing Boards and Councils, Chief Directors, and Chief Executives of the Public Service of Ghana, held in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, on Wednesday, October 8, he urged stakeholders to fast-track the prosecution of public officials implicated in financial misconduct. He said this would serve as a strong deterrent to prospective offenders.

    In light of this, his office will engage the Chief Justice, the Attorney General, and other relevant stakeholders to devise strategies to ensure swift punishment for those responsible for the misuse of public funds.

    “Recently, I have been watching the Public Accounts Committee, and it’s so pathetic. Why must we, every year, congregate at the Public Accounts Committee, and then you hear all kinds of atrocious things, recklessness with public funds and resources?

    “And so, I have a meeting on Thursday with the Chief Justice, the Attorney General, and others to find a final solution to this Auditor-General’s report, that persons who are found guilty of infractions, or do not follow due procedure, or lead to loss of public resources, must have a fast-track process to Nsawam; fast track, before you see, you are at Nsawam. Until we do that, until there’s a deterrent, we are going to come every year; they say total misappropriation and infractions found out by the Auditor-General are about 15 million cedis. Can you imagine what 15 million could do? And so, we are going to have a meeting”, he stated.

    He addressed the lack of full implementation of the committee, which charges the Audit Report Implementation Committees (ARICs) to follow up and ensure that due penalties are meted out to corrupt government officials following investigations by the Public Accounts Committee.

    However, he admitted that there was a genuine challenge which has inhibited the effective enforcement of these provisions, leading to persistent impunity in the misuse of public funds.

    “We haven’t fully implemented the Constitution. There’s a part of the Constitution that says after the Public Accounts Committee has had its say on the Auditor-General’s report, Parliament must set up a committee. What we don’t know is whether it should be a parliamentary committee or a committee necessarily made up of parliamentarians to implement the findings of the Auditor-General.

    Right now, what we use is the ARICs; every department is supposed to set up an ARIC, but once they have come from the Public Accounts Committee, nobody follows up on the recommendations that were given. So, Audit Report Implementation Committees are not working.

    We must find a way to create a deterrent so that they will be held responsible for the things they do. They will continue to do the same thing if not held accountable,” Mahama said.

    https://twitter.com/gyaigyimii/status/1976015895781834886

    About PAC

    The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Ghana was established under Article 103 of the 1992 Constitution and formally constituted as part of Parliament’s Standing Committees. It has existed since the First Parliament of the Fourth Republic, which began in January 1993.

    Its mandate is to review reports presented by the Auditor-General on public accounts of Ghana, to 

     summons ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to explain financial infractions and irregularities, and sometimes suggests sanctions, recoveries, and referrals for prosecution.

    However, since its establishment, PAC has reportedly had no documented record of ensuring the prosecution and, in other cases, the imprisonment of culprits, though its recommendations can trigger EOCO investigations or Attorney-General action.

    Over the years, the Committee has engaged several public institutions and heads of these institutions over reported financial irregularities in their respective businesses, but little to no show of penalties have been documented, particularly to serve as a deterrent to others. It will be recalled that in 2017, PAC recommended prosecution of officials at the National Sports Authority for misappropriating funds, but no confirmed convictions followed.

    Also, in a separate incident,  the committee in 2021 traced non-existent staff under GETFund and MASLOC, but again, no jail terms have been recorded so far.

    In 2023, PAC recovered GH₵12.9 million, but this was through repayments, not criminal penalties.

    Meanwhile, more than GH¢12.9 billion in misappropriated public funds has been retrieved following a collaboration between the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and the Auditor-General’s (A-G) Department.

    Addressing the media on Wednesday, October 1, Chairperson of PAC, Abena Osei-Asare, attributed the groundbreaking development to the collective efforts between the Auditor-General’s Department.

    “One thing I am clear about is that what we are doing is yielding positive results. We have a report we will look at. Per the work of the Public Accounts Committee, and with the support of the Auditor-General, we have been able to retrieve GH¢12.9 billion. There is a whole report on that which we will be sharing with the public at the right time,” she said.

    According to her, the Committee will make the report’s details public at the appropriate time. The Committee is scheduled to resume its sittings on Monday, October 27. Various ministries, departments, and agencies to address infractions highlighted in the 2024 Auditor-General’s Report have been interrogated by PAC in recent weeks.

    Recently, the Director of Administration at Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), Dr Emmanuel Sena Kwasi Donkor, appeared before the Public Accounts Committee after the A-G’s report suggested that the hospital paid salaries amounting to GHS 1,449,000 to a deceased staff member for a period of 26 months.

    Dr Emmanuel Sena Kwasi Donkor affirmed the report, adding that the hospital has so far recovered GHS303,558.68 of the total amount. He explained that the banks previously handling the transactions had, through a letter, indicated that they had ceased processing them.

    “We were able to recover some amounts. Before we got here, we had received letters from some banks stating that they had stopped transferring the funds to the government chest,” Dr Donkor told the Committee.

    He further urged Parliament to intervene and help the hospital recover the remaining funds. “Maybe at the end of this session, we will make a prayer to this House for the House to make an order directing those banks to transfer,” he said.

    Dr Donkor revealed that his outfit has submitted the names of the individuals implicated in the act to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO)for recovery. “EOCO has written back requesting the files of the people involved, and we have submitted them,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Ranking Member Samuel Atta-Mills has raised serious concerns regarding the issue. “Habib Napare – date of separation was 2022. This guy had died. Didn’t you go to the funeral? And you validated this dead person for 26 months? And now you are coming to tell Parliament to do what?” Atta-Mills asked sharply,” he added. In the meantime, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has released a fifty-page report covering investigations and prosecutions carried out between January 1 and July 31 this year.