TIG Post

Author: Abigail Ampofo

  • 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.

  • Govt settles NSMQ arrears, includes 53 more schools in competion

    Govt settles NSMQ arrears, includes 53 more schools in competion

    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.

    This was announced by the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, during a speech at the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS). 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.

    Background

    The organisers of NSMQ on October 1 released the timetable for the competition, which included the launch and balloting set for  October 7, as well as the preliminaries slated for October 13to 17.

    Two days later, the one-eighth stage will kick off on October 19 to 21, and the quarter-finals will follow from October 23 to 25. The semi-finals will take off on October 27, and three days after, the crowning, that is the grand finale, where the champions will be announced, will follow.

    However, CHASS, in response, 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 will not participate in the balloting or subsequent stages of the 2025 National Science & Maths Quiz (NSMQ).

    They said that many schools are unable to mobilise resources and prepare students. CHASS stated that the government funds meant for such activities have 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 their willingness to rescind its decision should the government release the requisite funds and pledged to inform organisers accordingly. CHASS also apologised for any inconvenience this decision may cause.

    The National Science & Maths Quiz (NSMQ) is an annual national quiz competition for senior high schools in Ghana, focusing on science and mathematics topics.

    Since its inception in 1993, the NSMQ has grown from featuring 32 schools divided regionally into 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 National Science and Maths Quiz (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 ending Round 1 tied at 24 points. However, Mfantsipim began to inch ahead in Round 2, 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 the champions of the 2024 NSMQ, Mfantsipim School celebrates not only their intellectual prowess but also the resilience and determination that led them to claim their third NSMQ title. This remarkable victory adds another chapter to the school’s legacy in science and mathematics excellence, and they now proudly stand as three-time NSMQ champions.

  • Parliament to reconvene on October 21

    Parliament to reconvene on October 21

    Parliament is set to reconvene on October 21, the Speaker has announced.

    The new development comes after Speaker Alban Bagbin Sumana, on Monday, October 6, announced via an official statement an indefinite suspension of Parliament. Parliament was originally scheduled to resume sitting on October 14 for the Third Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament.

    The statement cited “circumstances beyond control” without elaboration, sparking speculation among MPs and the public.

    However, the Speaker later announced that the Third Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament will commence on Tuesday, October 21, at 2:00 p.m. at Parliament House in Accra.

    The statement continued that the turnaround of events was in accordance with Order 58 of the Standing Orders of Parliament.

    Order 58 of the Standing Orders of Ghana’s Parliament empowers the Speaker to issue a formal notice of a parliamentary meeting. The exact wording is:

    “The Speaker shall give notice of a Meeting of Parliament by causing a notice to be published in the Gazette and in such other manner as the Speaker may determine.”

    Meanwhile, this final session of the year is expected to be intense, with Parliament set to debate and approve the 2026 Budget, address pending bills, including environmental and governance legislation and also review committee reports on finance, infrastructure, and national policy.

    Meanwhile, Members of Parliament (MPs) were expected to reconvene in October, following their recess for the Second Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic.

    This information was made known by the First Deputy Speaker, Honourable Bernard Ahiafor, on Friday, July 31. The legislators on Tuesday, May 17, began their official work following a recess for Easter celebrations last year.

    Parliament, from May to August this year, convened a total of 43 sittings; during this period, the legislative body passed several key bills, endorsed certain proposals, and debated several matters of national importance.

    On 24th July, Parliament wrapped up its debate on the Mid-Year Review Budget Statement and Economic Policy of the Government of Ghana for the 2025 financial year, which was presented by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.

    In the course of the debate, the Deputy Majority Leader and Member of Parliament (MP) for Cape Coast South, George Kweku Ricketts-Hagan, acknowledged the government’s efforts while describing the budget’s content as commendable.

    According to him, Ghana now fully controls its gold resources. This, he described as a major and transformative achievement for the country.

    In his submission on the floor of the House, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin contested the government’s celebratory claims regarding the performance of the local currency. He added that “2022 was a storm for the cedi, but I dare argue, despite all of this, the NPP government stabilized the cedi in 2023.”

    Also from the Minority side, Hon. Michael Kwesi Aidoo, Member of Parliament for Oforikrom, criticised the incumbent government for failing to address the real concerns of Ghanaians despite its claims of restoring the value of the cedi.

    He stressed, “Whenever you say anything about the issues of the economy, our colleagues will refer you to the dollar, that the dollar has reduced. Mr. Speaker, as I speak to you today, it has not reflected in our pockets.” To him, the Mid-Year Budget Review had nothing new except repetition of words.

    Also from the Minority Caucus, Member of Parliament for Takoradi, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, pushed back against the government’s assertion that its homegrown policies are fueling economic growth.

    He argued that the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration’s policies have driven growth in agriculture and fisheries, hence boosting Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    On Thursday, July 24, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson delivered to Parliament the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review. This was in accordance with Section 28 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), to inform the country on its economic performance and fiscal strategy halfway through the year.

    In his delivery, the sector minister noted that in less than 200 days the incumbent government has brought back clarity, certainty, stability, and purpose to the country’s economic policy direction. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson revealed that in the first six months of the year, the government’s expenditure stood at GH¢109.7 billion, equivalent to 7.8% of the GDP.

    He noted that the current expenditure was 14.3% below the programmed amount of GH¢128.0 billion, equivalent to 9.1% of GDP. According to the sector minister, this reflects the government’s strong expenditure control.

    During the presentation of the 2025 budget statement, the minister noted that total expenditures (commitment) for 2025 have been programmed at GH¢270.9 billion, down from GH¢279.2 billion in 2024.

    Primary expenditure on a commitment basis (expenditures net of interest payments) is projected at GH¢206.8 billion in 2025 (14.8% of GDP), presenting a significant decline from 19.8% of GDP in 2024 and lower than the 2023 level of 15.6% of GDP.

    Providing a breakdown of the total expenditure in six months, the minister said that primary expenditure, or non-interest expenditures on a commitment basis, amounted to GH¢84.3 billion, or 6.0% of GDP. This is an improvement of about GH¢13.3 billion over the target of GH¢97.5 billion, which is 7.0% of GDP.

    The Finance Minister noted that although Ghana is relying on the domestic market for financing, “We have borrowed less than we planned, signifying strong expenditure control and fiscal discipline.”

    Presently, the government is revising both revenue and expenditure projections to reflect the impact of the additional revenue from the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141).

    Total expenditure on a commitment basis has been revised downward to GH¢269.5 billion from the original budget projection of GH¢270.9 billion. However, primary expenditure has been revised upwards to GH¢209.6 billion from the original budget projection of GH¢206.8 billion.

    Total revenue and grants have been revised upwards from the 2025 budget target of GH¢227.1 billion to GH¢229.9 billion, or from 16.2% of GDP to 16.4% of GDP, representing a nominal increase of 1.3%. “The additional revenue of GH¢2.9 billion will come from the increase in revenues from the amendment to the Energy Sector Levies Act,” the minister added.

    Interest payments have been revised downwards by GH¢4.3 billion, from the original budget projection of GH¢64.1 billion to GH¢59.9 billion. Domestic interest, on the other hand, has been revised downward by GH¢5.1 billion, mainly on account of gains from the reduction in the treasury bill rates as a result of the implementation of our prudent debt management policies.

    However, external interest payments have been revised upward by GH¢795 million to make additional provision for debt service due on post cut-off date disbursements made by our bilateral creditors since 2023. Energy sector payments have also been revised upwards by GH¢2.9 billion to provision for fuel purchases for power generation.In June, Parliament gave the nod to the reinstatement of July 1 as a statutory public holiday following the amendment of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which amends Act 601.

    The amended Act grants an additional holiday for the Muslim community, Shaqq Day, a statutory public holiday to be observed the day after Eid-ul-Fitr. In the same vein, August 4 has been removed from the list of public holidays as Founders’ Day, and instead, September 21 will now be observed as Founder’s Day.

    In the same period, Parliament vetted and approved seven (7) justices of the Supreme Court nominated by President John Dramani Mahama.

    Parliament prior to its recent recess passed the following bills: the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill 2025, the University for Development Studies Bill 2025, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund Bill 2025, also known as MahamaCares, and the Social Protection Bill 2025.

    The first two bills were approved by the House on July 19. Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Hon. Emelia Arthur was present in Parliament for the approval of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill 2025.

    The sector minister revealed to the House that the bill has been revised to reflect Ghana’s commitment to the Blue Economy agenda by harnessing marine and aquatic resources sustainably to support economic growth, social inclusion, food security, and environmental protection.

    Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs, Hon. Jasaw Seidu Godfred, while presenting the committee’s report, noted that the sustainable management, utilization, and exploitation of the fisheries and aquaculture resources require the existence of a robust legal framework that governs fishing activities, regulates resource extraction, and ensures compliance with international and national environmental standards.

    He indicated that the fisheries and aquaculture sectors contribute significantly to national development in areas such as job and wealth creation, poverty reduction, gross domestic product contribution, and foreign exchange.

  • Henderson rejects claims Saudi move cost him his place in Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad 

    Henderson rejects claims Saudi move cost him his place in Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad 

    Former Liverpool captain and Al-Ettifaq midfielder Jordan Henderson has dismissed claims that his surprise move to Saudi Arabia in 2023 led England manager Gareth Southgate to omit him from the Euro 2024 squad.

    For twelve years he stayed with Liverpool leading the team through one of its most successful modern eras with a record of about eight trophies, however a reduction in his playing time during the 2022–2023 season, particularly in the second half of that campaign made him exit for Saudi’s Al-Ettifaq.

    Southgate released his squad list for the Euro 2024 and for the first time, in about a decade, Henderson had been excluded. This sparked speculations with many linking the snub from his move to Saudi.

    However, in a recent interview aired on October 7, he objected these claims saying, “I don’t think it was the reason why I missed the Euros. When I was in Saudi Arabia, I think I was in every camp before the Euros. Timing, with everything in hindsight, yes, maybe I would have made different decisions.”

    He continued that, his decision to leave at such an unexpected period, when he had led the club to win the FA Community Shield in July 2022, he admitted was a tough one for him. If he had gotten just one person to appreciate his value as a team member, he would have rescinded his decision to leave Liverpool citing that he could have made a better decision concerning his move to Saudi.

    “He said, “I am not going to lie, over the past couple of years, I have had some tough moments. It felt like a break-up when I left Liverpool. Of course, I’m not perfect, and I’ve made mistakes in the past. Of course, I will have throughout my career. But all I’ve ever tried to do is the right thing.”

    Known as an ardent advocate of the LGBTQ community, Henderson came under heavy criticism following his move to Saudi Arabia, a place where same-sex marriage was illegal. The community was highly dissspointed. Consequently, he apologised saying he never meant to hurt anyone by moving to Saudi.

    “I can understand the frustration. I can understand the anger. I get it. All I can say around that is that I’m sorry that they feel like that. My intention was never, ever to hurt anyone.”

    However, currently, the 35-year-old is back in Europe, playing for Brentford since leaving Ajax in July this year. He apologised for letting down or hurting anyone in the community when he left Saudi Arabia to join Ajax six months later.

    Henderson has won 85 caps since making his England debut against France in 2010.

    He is in Tuchel’s squad to play Wales and Latvia this week and feels he still has plenty to offer on the pitch.

    “The most important people are the manager, the coaching staff and the players and what they think,” said Henderson.

    “Ask them what they think, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I don’t think one of the best managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that.”

    Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson have joined Brentford in a two-year deal.

    He joined the Bees from Ajax on a free transfer. Speaking on the Brit’s move to Brentford, head coach Keith Andrews expressed optimism in the former Liverpool player’s imminent contribution to keeping the team in alignment.

    He trusts his leadership skills, given his experience as a captain with Liverpool for nearly a decade from July 10, 2015, when he officially succeeded Steven Gerrard, until his departure in July 2023.

    “When we became aware of Jordan’s availability, it was a pretty simple decision.”

    “He’s still phenomenally fit and phenomenally motivated… he will drive standards and be a brilliant addition to the squad.” Keith Andrews noted.

    Henderson, reacting to this, stated that,

    “I’m delighted that I’m here; I’m very excited to get started and get going”

    “I’ve always had huge admiration for the club and what they’ve achieved over the last few years… it was an easy decision in the end”, Henderson on why he chose the bees.

    Several European and English clubs had eyes on Henderson, but Brentford were the frontrunners as they won the race to sign the former Liverpool skipper.

    Playing in the Premier League will provide Henderson with the platform to stay in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad before next summer’s World Cup.

    The deal formalities are expected to be confirmed in the coming days.

    The move to Brentford will return Henderson to the Premier League after he left Liverpool in 2023.

    During his 12 years at Anfield Henderson won the Premier League – the club’s first league title in 30 years – Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, Club World Cup, Uefa Super Cup and Community Shield.

    Henderson left the Reds to join Al-Ettifaq on July 27, 2023, in a three-year deal worth £700,000 per week, totalling nearly £36.5 million annually.

    His pay made him the highest-paid English footballer at the time, but this ‘luxury’ lasted less than a year when he terminated his contract abruptly after 6 months, citing professional and personal reasons.

    Henderson signed with Ajax on a free transfer, allegedly in an attempt to revive his career.

    Henderson was left out of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, as he had not played for England since 2023.

    After Tuchel’s appointment as England head coach in January, Henderson has featured in both of the German’s squads, making three appearances.

  • This pressure is not new – Otto Addo on higher expectations from team ahead of CAR game

    This pressure is not new – Otto Addo on higher expectations from team ahead of CAR game

    Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has acknowledged the noticeable pressure on the team to secure a ticket to the global football tournament in 2026. He believes this is not new with Ghana currencyly sitting atop Group I with 19 points, it is highly expected for fans, stakeholders among others to be highly expected in terms of the team’s triumph.

    Speaking in a pre-match conference in Meknès, Morocco, ahead of his side’s clash with Central Africa Republic in later today  Wednesday, October 8, the former Dortmund coach said, “the so-called pressure that we have right now is normal”.

    Black Stars’ match which comes off today is their second-to-last World Cup clash that will determine whether Ghana will be able to secure the 4 points needed to secure their seat at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    However, he recommended an early goal for his side to reduce the pressure. “I’m just hoping that we can have an early goal; it will make things easier,” while expressing confidence in his squad to give the best results largely expected in the matches.

    “When we are first and just two matches to go, it’s expected. The players are experienced enough. Surely, we have some young ones, but we also have experienced players who will guide them,” he said.

    He continued that, despite their position in Group I, there is a need for the team to maintain their stability and be consistent as the qualifiers draw to a close.

    “Consistency is the key to success. If you make too many changes, it’s difficult for the players to connect,” he said.

    The Black Stars’ encounter against the Central African Republic kicks off at 16:00 GMT. The four-time African champions will play the match at the Stade d’Honneur in Morocco. They will conclude their qualifying campaign on Sunday, October 12, when they host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium.

    Otto Addo has finalised his squad for the double-header. He released the squad list yesterday, October 2, with the official list. Following the clash with CAR, the Black Stars will return to Accra to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, in their final qualifier.

    Full Squad Overview

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah).

    In a related development, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has released ticket prices ahead of Ghana’s final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Comoros.

    The game will be hosted at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday at 19:00 GMT.

    The prices, which were announced in an official statement, detailed that “Tickets for the Ghana versus Comoros match are priced as follows: VVIP – GH¢1,000, Upper VIP – GH¢500, Lower VIP – GH¢250, Centre Line – GH¢100, and Popular Stand – GH¢50.”

    The Minister also explained that “the pricing structure is designed to make the game accessible to fans from all walks of life.”

    Meanwhile, the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, announced a change in the Black Stars’ camping arrangements.

    Black Stars, who were originally scheduled to assemble and camp in Accra, headed 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, was 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.

    Meanwhile, Ghanaian attacking midfielder and Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus has expressed optimism about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Kudus said the squad, including himself, is heading in the right direction and will do everything possible to secure qualification.

    “We have to qualify at all costs. I think we are on the right path now. Obviously, AFCON is also one of the major tournaments that the country loves and wants to participate in. Not qualifying was a big disappointment, but I think the full focus now is on the World Cup qualifiers,” Kudus said.

    He highlighted that the current Black Stars squad are competent enough to replicate and even go beyond what their predecessors did about a decade and a half ago when they sailed through to the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup tournament.

    “2010, we went all the way to the quarterfinals. And I believe this squad can even do more than that. But first we have to qualify, and then we can focus on the tournament itself.”

  • 2026 WCQ: I hope we get an early goal, it’d make things easier – Otto Addo  

    2026 WCQ: I hope we get an early goal, it’d make things easier – Otto Addo  

    Despite leading Group I with 19 points, Ghana’s Black Stars face mounting pressure from fans and stakeholders to win their remaining two matches and book their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by three nations.

    Black Stars’ second-to-last World Cup clash comes off today, Wednesday, October 8, against the Central African Republic (CAR), and speaking ahead of the game in a pre-match press conference in Meknès, Morocco, the team’s head coach Otto Addo highlighted that, “the so-called pressure that we have right now is normal,” Addo told reporters.

    However, he recommended an early goal for his side to reduce the pressure. “I’m just hoping that we can have an early goal; it will make things easier,” while expressing confidence in his squad to give the best results largely expected in the matches.

    “When we are first and just two matches to go, it’s expected. The players are experienced enough. Surely, we have some young ones, but we also have experienced players who will guide them,” he said.

    He continued that, despite their position in Group I, there is a need for the team to maintain their stability and be consistent as the qualifiers draw to a close.

    “Consistency is the key to success. If you make too many changes, it’s difficult for the players to connect,” he said.

    The Black Stars’ encounter against the Central African Republic kicks off at 16:00 GMT. The four-time African champions will play the match at the Stade d’Honneur in Morocco. They will conclude their qualifying campaign on Sunday, October 12, when they host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium.

    Otto Addo has finalised his squad for the double-header. He released the squad list yesterday, October 2, with the official list. Following the clash with CAR, the Black Stars will return to Accra to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, in their final qualifier.

    Full Squad Overview

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah)

    In a related development, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has released ticket prices ahead of Ghana’s final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Comoros.

    The game will be hosted at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday at 19:00 GMT.

    The prices, which were announced in an official statement, detailed that “Tickets for the Ghana versus Comoros match are priced as follows: VVIP – GH¢1,000, Upper VIP – GH¢500, Lower VIP – GH¢250, Centre Line – GH¢100, and Popular Stand – GH¢50.”

    The Minister also explained that “the pricing structure is designed to make the game accessible to fans from all walks of life.”

    Meanwhile, the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, announced a change in the Black Stars’ camping arrangements.

    Black Stars, who were originally scheduled to assemble and camp in Accra, headed 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, was 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.

    Meanwhile, Ghanaian attacking midfielder and Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus has expressed optimism about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Kudus said the squad, including himself, is heading in the right direction and will do everything possible to secure qualification.

    “We have to qualify at all costs. I think we are on the right path now. Obviously, AFCON is also one of the major tournaments that the country loves and wants to participate in. Not qualifying was a big disappointment, but I think the full focus now is on the World Cup qualifiers,” Kudus said.

    He highlighted that the current Black Stars squad are competent enough to replicate and even go beyond what their predecessors did about a decade and a half ago when they sailed through to the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup tournament.

    “2010, we went all the way to the quarterfinals. And I believe this squad can even do more than that. But first we have to qualify, and then we can focus on the tournament itself.”

  • My exit from Liverpool felt like a break-up, it was tough – Jordan Henderson

    My exit from Liverpool felt like a break-up, it was tough – Jordan Henderson

    Former Liverpool captain and former Al-Ettifaq forward Jordan Henderson has opened up about an emotional fallout he experienced after his abrupt exit from Liverpool in mid-2023.

    Having played Liverpool for about twelve years (12), a reduction in his playing time during the 2022–2023 season, particularly in the second half of that campaign. 

    His role shifted from guaranteed starter to rotational squad member as Liverpool refreshed their midfield, followed by conversations with Klopp that made him feel he was beginning to lose his value to the club at the time.

    Consequently, his decision to leave at such an unexpected period, when he had led the club to win the FA Community Shield in July 2022. He admitted that the post-Liverpool exit was a tough one for him. On his move to Saudi he said he could have made a better decision.

    He said, “I am not going to lie, over the past couple of years, I have had some tough moments. It felt like a break-up when I left Liverpool. Of course, I’m not perfect, and I’ve made mistakes in the past. Of course, I will have throughout my career. But all I’ve ever tried to do is the right thing.”

    He faced massive backlash from both pundits and some Liverpool fans, particularly for deciding to move to an Aran country, where the rights of LGBTQ people were not recognised and entertained as an ardent advocate for the community. Many attributed his missing out on Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad to his move to Saudi Arabia and out of the Premier League. 

    Addressing it, he denied the claims, saying, “I don’t think it was the reason why I missed the Euros,” he said. “When I was in Saudi Arabia,  I think I was in every camp before the Euros. Timing, with everything in hindsight, yes, maybe I would have made different decisions.”

    However, currently, the 35-year-old is back in Europe, playing for Brentford since leaving Ajax in July this year. He apologised for letting down or hurting anyone in the community when he left Saudi Arabia to join Ajax six months later.

    Henderson has won 85 caps since making his England debut against France in 2010.

    He is in Tuchel’s squad to play Wales and Latvia this week and feels he still has plenty to offer on the pitch.

    “The most important people are the manager, the coaching staff and the players and what they think,” said Henderson.

    “Ask them what they think, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I don’t think one of the best managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that.”

    Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson have joined Brentford in a two-year deal.

    He joined the Bees from Ajax on a free transfer. Speaking on the Brit’s move to Brentford, head coach Keith Andrews expressed optimism in the former Liverpool player’s imminent contribution to keeping the team in alignment.

    He trusts his leadership skills, given his experience as a captain with Liverpool for nearly a decade from July 10, 2015, when he officially succeeded Steven Gerrard, until his departure in July 2023.

    “When we became aware of Jordan’s availability, it was a pretty simple decision.”

    “He’s still phenomenally fit and phenomenally motivated… he will drive standards and be a brilliant addition to the squad.” Keith Andrews noted.

    Henderson, reacting to this, stated that,

    “I’m delighted that I’m here; I’m very excited to get started and get going”

    “I’ve always had huge admiration for the club and what they’ve achieved over the last few years… it was an easy decision in the end”, Henderson on why he chose the bees.

    Several European and English clubs had eyes on Henderson, but Brentford were the frontrunners as they won the race to sign the former Liverpool skipper.

    Playing in the Premier League will provide Henderson with the platform to stay in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad before next summer’s World Cup.

    The deal formalities are expected to be confirmed in the coming days.

    The move to Brentford will return Henderson to the Premier League after he left Liverpool in 2023.

    During his 12 years at Anfield Henderson won the Premier League – the club’s first league title in 30 years – Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, Club World Cup, Uefa Super Cup and Community Shield.

    Henderson left the Reds to join Al-Ettifaq on July 27, 2023, in a three-year deal worth £700,000 per week, totalling nearly £36.5 million annually.

    His pay made him the highest-paid English footballer at the time, but this ‘luxury’ lasted less than a year when he terminated his contract abruptly after 6 months, citing professional and personal reasons.

    Henderson signed with Ajax on a free transfer, allegedly in an attempt to revive his career.

    Henderson was left out of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, as he had not played for England since 2023.

    After Tuchel’s appointment as England head coach in January, Henderson has featured in both of the German’s squads, making three appearances.

  • NPP primaries: Ken Agyapong takes lead in recent survey with 53%, Dr Bawumia trails with 39%

    NPP primaries: Ken Agyapong takes lead in recent survey with 53%, Dr Bawumia trails with 39%

    In late September, Global Info Analytics predicted that Dr Bawumia, the former Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), would lead in the primaries against his competitors, particularly former Assin Central Member of Parliament Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    However, in barely two weeks, the Pan-African civil society organisation, Sanity Africa, which recently 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%.

    Among NPP delegates, Dr Bawumia remains firmly ahead with 47%, while Kennedy Agyapong trails with 17%. Dr Acheampong and Dr Adutwum received 3% and 1% respectively, with Kwabena Agyapong also at 1%. However, 27% of delegates remain undecided, and 4% declined to disclose their preference.

    In a runoff scenario within the delegates’ poll, Dr Bawumia commands 49%, compared to Kennedy Agyapong’s 19%, with 27% undecided and 5% declining to disclose.

    The vetting committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, September 23, assessed the former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and four other persons contesting to lead the party into the 2028 elections.

    The four others who have expressed interest in contesting include Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum (former Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe), Bryan Acheampong (Member of Parliament for Abetifi), former party General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong, and former Assin Central MP Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    On Tuesday, July 29, the NPP opened nominations for its 2028 flagbearer position. Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s 2024 flagbearer and former Vice President, Kennedy Agyapong, Kwabena Agyepong, and Dr. Osei Adutwum have all picked up nomination forms.

    Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, 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.

    Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum filed his nomination forms for the NPP flagbearer race on Thursday, August 28, 2025.

    In the meantime, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.

    In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President who decided to make him his running mate despite the many individuals who advised him to do otherwise. According to Dr Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.

    “I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party and all the people who were praying for the running mate slot; he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.

  • ₵1K for VIP tickets, ₵50 for popular stand – Sports Ministry announces prices for Ghana v Comoros game

    ₵1K for VIP tickets, ₵50 for popular stand – Sports Ministry announces prices for Ghana v Comoros game

    Ghana Black Stars’ World Cup qualifiers clash with Comoros is set for Sunday, October 8. In light of this, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has released ticket prices ahead of Ghana’s final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Comoros.

    The game will be hosted at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday at 19:00 GMT.

    The prices, which were announced in an official statement, detailed that “Tickets for the Ghana versus Comoros match are priced as follows: VVIP – GH¢1,000, Upper VIP – GH¢500, Lower VIP – GH¢250, Centre Line – GH¢100, and Popular Stand – GH¢50.”

    The Minister also explained that “the pricing structure is designed to make the game accessible to fans from all walks of life.”

    The Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, announced a change in the Black Stars’ 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.

    Also, Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo, has finalised his squad for the double-header. He released the squad list yesterday, October 2, with the official list . Following the clash with CAR, the Black Stars will return to Accra to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, in their final qualifier.

    Full Squad Overview

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah)

    Ghana currently lead Group I with 19 points and require a victory to confirm their fifth World Cup appearance.

    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.

    After failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghanaian attacking midfielder and Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus has expressed optimism about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Kudus said the squad, including himself, is heading in the right direction and will do everything possible to secure qualification.

    “We have to qualify at all costs. I think we are on the right path now. Obviously, AFCON is also one of the major tournaments that the country loves and wants to participate in. Not qualifying was a big disappointment, but I think the full focus now is on the World Cup qualifiers,” Kudus said.

    He highlighted that the current Black Stars squad are competent enough to replicate and even go beyond what their predecessors did about a decade and a half ago when they sailed through to the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup tournament.

    “2010, we went all the way to the quarterfinals. And I believe this squad can even do more than that. But first we have to qualify, and then we can focus on the tournament itself.”

    For the 25-year-old, representing Ghana goes beyond sport, carrying deep personal pride.

    “I think you represent your country like a one-time thing. That’s the one with the biggest emotion and feeling for me. It means a lot wearing that jersey with a lot of pride,” he added.

  • BoG announces surge in Non-Performing Loans across banks

    BoG announces surge in Non-Performing Loans across banks

    The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced a slight increase in Non-Performing Loans (NPLs). This was revealed in the central bank’s July 2025 Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Report. 

    NPLs refer to loans that are in default, typically when borrowers have missed payments for between 90 and 180 days, and they pose significant risks to banks and the wider economy.

    According to the MPC report, as of June 2025,  NPLs in the banking sector had hit GH¢20.7 billion, representing a 1.3% increase compared to the GH¢20.4 billion recorded the previous year.

    NPLs refer to loans that are in default, typically when borrowers have missed payments for between 90 and 180 days, and they pose significant risks to banks and the wider economy.

    Despite this marginal increase in the value of NPLs, the data indicate an overall improvement in asset quality across the industry. The NPL ratio, which measures the proportion of total non-performing loans, declined to 23.1% in June 2025 from 24.2% in June 2024. This improvement occurred even as the share of foreign currency-denominated NPLs continued to fall, reflecting a gradual strengthening in loan performance within the sector.

    When the fully provisioned loan loss category is adjusted for, the industry’s NPL ratio falls further to 8.5 per cent from 10.8 per cent, reflecting a reduction in sub-standard non-performing loans.

    “The decline in the NPL ratio during the period under review is explained by the lower growth in the NPL stock relative to the growth in total loans,” the Bank of Ghana noted.

    According to BoG, the sector accounting for the bulk of non-performing loans remains the private sector. The proportion of NPLs attributable to the private sector rose slightly to 96.4 per cent in June 2025 from 95.6% in June 2024, while the public sector share declined to 3.6% from 4.4%.

    The commerce and finance, and the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors recorded increases in their NPL ratios, while the manufacturing sector’s ratio remained unchanged compared with June 2024.

    BoG also reported that the commerce and finance sector recorded the highest level of non-performing loans, with a 7.3%  increase in the NPL ratio, in June 2025, compared to 19.7% the same time last year. The services sector followed with an NPL ratio of 25.7%, marking a marginal gain from 26.6% recorded a year earlier.

    Industry watchers are expressing concern about the implications of rising NPLs on efforts to lower lending rates. Financial institutions often factor current NPL ratios or borrower payment delays into loan pricing. Some affected businesses told Joy Business they cannot be blamed for delayed loan repayments, citing government payment arrears as a contributing factor.

    In August, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) announced a ‘name and shame’ approach to promote responsible borrowing among wilful loan defaulters in a new directive. The financial institution announced this in a formal directive issued to all regulated financial institutions on August 14.

    In the new directive, the Bank of Ghana instructed all regulated financial institutions to publish the names of individuals who deliberately refuse to repay loans (wilful loan defaulters), despite having the means, twice a year in national newspapers and on their websites.

    “All banks and other regulated lenders will be required to publish the names of such defaulters twice a year, on June 30 and December 31, in at least two national newspapers and on their official websites, using a format provided by the BoG.”

    These measures form part of BoG’s latest regulatory actions to curb rising non-performing loans (NPLs) and reduce risks to the profitability, liquidity, and solvency of the banking sector. The central bank has already notified all regulated financial institutions of the directives and published explanatory notes for the public.

    Also, not only will the names of the defaulters be published, but they will also be barred from getting any loans from any accredited financial institution for up to about half a decade.

    “People in Ghana who deliberately refuse to repay loans… could soon be banned from borrowing from any licensed bank or financial institution for up to five years.” Borrowers who default on more than two occasions will face a five-year credit ban.

    “Borrowers listed as wilful defaulters on two or more occasions within ten years will face a mandatory five-year ban, or longer if the calculated prohibition period exceeds that duration,” it added. The restrictions also target directors of companies found to have engaged in fund diversion, misrepresentation, falsified accounts, or fraudulent transactions.

    “Directors of companies that are wilful defaulters, where RFIs have identified siphoning/diversion of funds, misrepresentation, falsification of accounts, and fraudulent transactions with the directors’ consent or connivance, shall also be deemed wilful defaulters and prohibited from accessing credit for the same period as the defaulting company,” it said.

    Who is a wilful defaulter

    According to the Bank of Ghana, “A wilful defaulter is defined as a borrower who deliberately breaks loan agreements… or obtains it through fake documents or false collateral.”

    According to the new directive, the BoG outlined the conditions under which an action will be classified as wilful default. BoG explained that a wilful default would be deemed to have occurred if any of the following events were noted:

    i. The borrower has defaulted on their repayment obligations to the RFI even when they have the capacity to honour the said obligation;

    ii. The borrower has defaulted on their repayment obligations to the RFI and has siphoned or diverted the funds for other purposes;

    iii. The borrower has defaulted on their repayment obligations to the RFI and has provided falsified or misrepresented collateral or any other documentation in support of the loan application, thereby securing the facility through fraudulent means;

    iv. The borrower has defaulted on their repayment obligations to two (2) or more RFIs concurrently. However, the borrower may be exempted as a wilful defaulter if evidence is provided to the RFI that their inability to meet repayment obligations is due to loss of employment, force majeure, or disability;

    v. The borrower has defaulted on their repayment obligations and has relocated without the RFI’s knowledge of the new address; or

    vi. The borrower has defaulted on their repayment obligations to the RFI and has, without the RFI’s knowledge or consent, disposed of or removed the movable or immovable assets pledged as security for the facility.

  • University of Ghana to dismiss students with GPA below 1.0

    University of Ghana to dismiss students with GPA below 1.0

    University of Ghana (UG), Legon, has announced the dismissal of all students who acquired a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) 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. 

    They continued, “For those who have already remitted their tuition fees for the 2023/2024 academic year, please be assured that a refund will be processed upon request.  Affected students were encouraged to make enquiries about the issue as they fit, the statement disclosed.

    The CGPA minimum also applied to courses that were taken in the previous semester in the 2022/2023 academic year.

    “For those who have already remitted their tuition fees for the 2023/2024 academic year, please be assured that a refund will be processed upon request. We recognise the significance of this announcement and extend an invitation to any student who has questions or requires support to contact the relevant College Academic Affairs Office. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.”

    Founded on August 11, 1948, as the University College of the Gold Coast, the University of Ghana is the country’s premier university.

    It operates a collegiate administrative structure comprising various colleges, alongside a central administration that includes the School of Graduate Studies and the Office of International Programmes.

    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.

  • Govt will spend $200k to decontaminate metal-polluted rivers – EPA

    Govt will spend $200k to decontaminate metal-polluted rivers – EPA

    Discussions regarding the government’s response to the rise in illegal mining, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey’, have increased significantly due to the severe environmental damage it is causing in the country, particularly the pollution of our water bodies. 

    Recent researches report that 60% of Ghana’s major rivers have been destroyed by galamsey, with heavy presence of metals which have found their way into our food chain, claiming lives and causing deformities, particularly among babies.

    As part of measures to deal with this deadly destruction, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a modern science-backed technological solution to reverse the devastation caused by illegal mining (galamsey).

    With what they describe as the ‘nano technology, ‘ the EPA is confident that the dechemicalization solution, featuring a copper-based ‘nano liquid,’ has been laboratory-tested and proven effective in purifying heavily contaminated rivers.

    Speaking on The Probe on Joy News on Sunday, October 5, Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Executive Director of the EPA, dismissed public despondency, insisting that the crisis is solvable through advanced science, provided the government secures the immediate funding for a large-scale demonstration, which will cost over 200,000 dollars for the piloting phase.

    According to her, “I want to tell my fellow Ghanaians that there is still hope, because we are in a technology age. To do pilots to show to Ghanaians and even the president that this is doable. We need 200,000 USD; if I get it today, we will do the pilot for every Ghanaian to see that with the flowing river, this particular technology can be used.” Prof. Klutse declared, shifting the focus from failed military operations to chemical innovation.

    Prof. Klutse revealed that the EPA has identified and tested at least two viable technologies, including one that has been successfully deployed in other international contexts, specifically citing success in Greece.

    She also admitted that these technologies she is advocating for to strip pollutants from our rivers are something she has witnessed for herself, their efficacy and effectiveness in restoring Ghana’s rivers. According to her, nanotechnology is just one among the many technological tests they are exploring to heal Ghana’s galamsey-polluted water bodies.

    “Yes, there’s a nano liquid that is copper-based that can be used. That’s just one. We have tried this, which has been tested in Greece. I have seen for myself. We have done the test in the lab for the EPA and advised the government on this; we have tested it, and it works, and it’s doable,” the University of Ghana Professor said.

    She said that even though the new technology has worked well in tests, Ghana will only use it after checking whether it is worth the money, i.e., to check whether it will work efficiently, not just something cheap.

    “We are looking at all of the options, and we will have to decide on the one that is more affordable, not just cheap affordable, because it’s effective and also cost-effective.”

    Contamination from galamsey has introduced highly dangerous levels of arsenic and mercury, genotoxic agents that pose a direct, non-threshold cancer risk, forcing the frequent shutdown of water treatment plants serving major cities.

    The EPA boss’s remarks come just two days after President John Mahama spoke at a high-level stakeholder engagement on Galamsey in Accra on Friday, October 3, with members of the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). President Mahama said, “There are new chemicals that have come that allow you to treat water and take out the toxins and the heavy metals. One of them is called dowtine. The people came, and we sent them there. They took samples, tested. We are waiting for them to bring the results back.”

    He has asked Ghanaians to exercise patience regarding the longstanding battle against illegal mining (galamsey) activities. During a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), President Mahama said declaring a state of emergency would not end the menace.

    According to him, government advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralise or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies. Additionally, the President pledged to honour scores of Ghanaians’ calls by declaring a state of emergency when his advisors give him the nod to do so.

    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 adopt technology 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.

    In addition, an ongoing research by a forensic histopathologist and former Head of Pathology at KNUST and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Prof. Dr Paul Poku Sampene Ossei, has revealed alarming trends in the rising cases of spontaneous abortions among pregnant women in Ghana.

    Approximately five hundred cases of spontaneous abortions (miscarriages) have been recorded in research that links these cases to severe contamination of placentas and the presence of heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, resulting from galamsey activities.

    A spontaneous abortion is the unintentional expulsion of an embryo or fetus from the uterus before it is viable. Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, September 27, Prof. Sampene warned that galamsey is poisoning unborn babies and endangering the lives of mothers.

    “I have about 500 cases where women go to the hospital and abort their babies because of the concentration of these heavy metals in their placenta,” he disclosed.

    According to him, his research involved over 4,000 placentas examined from different regions across Ghana. The results showed dangerous levels of heavy metal contamination on both the maternal and foetal sides. “The placentas are all contaminated, polluted with heavy metals,” he said.

    The dangers of these metals extend beyond pregnancy losses. Another effect of galamsey is the excessive use of alum to address the increasing turbidity of water. Ghana Water Company Limited, the nation’s largest water supplier, has resorted to using higher concentrations of alum. Prof. Sampene cautioned that high levels of aluminium hydroxide pose serious health risks.

    According to him, one of the consequences of excessive alum use is kidney disease, which is already on the rise. He warned that if left unchecked, “Ghana will be in big trouble.”

    “Of course, people are talking about turbidity, and then the Water Company is saying that they are using more alum. Alum is aluminium hydroxide, that is the full name, aluminium hydroxide, and this aluminium hydroxide, when taken for a long period, in fact at higher concentration, has a lot of what you call health effects. One of them is kidney problems.

  • Kudus leads in duels, dribbles, shots – Rooney gushes over Spurs’ prodigy

    Kudus leads in duels, dribbles, shots – Rooney gushes over Spurs’ prodigy

    It’s been about just three months, and Ghana international Mohammed Kudus is topping charts with his brilliant display at Spurs.

    He notched his first goal for Spurs and provided his fourth assist. That puts him atop the list of players who have provided the most assists.

    Just twenty-three minutes into the game, Kudus passed the ball to Mathys Tel, whose deflected shot gave Spurs the lead.

    Leeds equalised Spurs’ lead in the 34th minute through Noah Okafor. However, after twenty-three (23) minutes, Kudus notched a goal in the 57th minute with a superb finish from the edge of the box, restoring his team’s lead.

    Given his performance in Tottenham’s last game, former Man Utd forward and the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, Rooney, speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, noted that Kudus currently sits atop the list of players with the most assists in the 2025/2026 season.

    Rooney said, “I think he’s been a breath of fresh air. When you look at the stats from today’s game against Leeds, he’s first in every category: duels won, successful dribbles, shots, touches in the opposition box, and sprints. He’s had a real impact for Tottenham this season,” the England legend added.

    He continued that “he’s got four assists, which is joint-highest in the Premier League right now, and by far the most successful dribbles. All that was missing was the goal, and I think that strike today will push him to the next level”.

    Kudus will now turn his attention to international duty, as he joins the Ghana national team ahead of their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against the Central African Republic and Comoros later this month.

    Black Stars are set to pitch their camp in Morocco for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR), slated for October 8.

    Black Stars, who were originally scheduled to assemble and camp in Accra, will now head straight to Morocco. 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.

    The four-time African champions need just four points from the two fixtures to secure their ticket to next year’s tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

    After failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghanaian attacking midfielder and Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus has expressed optimism about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Kudus said the squad, including himself, is heading in the right direction and will do everything possible to secure qualification.

    “We have to qualify at all costs. I think we are on the right path now. Obviously, AFCON is also one of the major tournaments that the country loves and wants to participate in. Not qualifying was a big disappointment, but I think the full focus now is on the World Cup qualifiers,” Kudus said.

    He highlighted that the current Black Stars squad is competent enough to replicate, and even surpass, what their predecessors did about a decade and a half ago when they advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup tournament.

    “2010, we went all the way to the quarterfinals. And I believe this squad can even do more than that. But first we have to qualify, and then we can focus on the tournament itself.”

    For the 25-year-old, representing Ghana goes beyond sport, carrying deep personal pride.

    “I think you represent your country like a one-time thing. That’s the one with the biggest emotion and feeling for me. It means a lot wearing that jersey with a lot of pride,” he added.

    Also, Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo, has finalised his squad for the double-header. He released the squad list yesterday, October 2, with the official list. Following the clash with CAR, the Black Stars will return to Accra to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, in their final qualifier.

    Full Squad Overview

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah)

    Ghana currently lead Group I with 19 points and require a victory to confirm their fifth World Cup appearance.

    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.

  • Man City’s Rodri sidelined with hamstring discomfort, forced off early in Brentford clash

    Man City’s Rodri sidelined with hamstring discomfort, forced off early in Brentford clash

    Man City defensive midfielder and 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, Rodrigo Hernández Cascante was substituted during his side’s clash with Brentford on Sunday just 23 minutes into the game. 

    Marking his 6th (sixth) match since his injury comeback, the British footballer had to be sent off after developing a discomfort in his hamstring. He signalled his coach, Pep Guardiola and the bench to be substituted. He was later seen limping off the pitch when Pep replaced him with  his Spanish compatriot Nico González.

    Speaking in a post-match interview with Sky Sports, at the Gtech Community Stadium, London Rodri noted that “he felt a little bit in the hamstring, but it seems as though it’s not that much,” Rodri told “I stretched a bit, like in the final of the Euros [when he had to go off injured]. But the most important thing is it’s not that big.”

    Commenting on Rodri’s injury, Pep described him as an important player who they can’t risk missing out on for long hence their swift response to his substitution request. He said the injury isn’t that serious hence he wouldn’t be gone for long.

    “It’s muscular, so two weeks or three weeks [out],” said City manager Pep Guardiola after the game.

    “Of course, I don’t want to lose him even a little because he is such an important player. We tried to take care of him, but it is what it is.,” the manager said.

    This comes after Rodri was sidelined for over 200 days in September last year after undergoing surgery to repair the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee after he suffered the issue, which also affected the meniscus, in a Premier League clash with Arsenal.

    He returned in late May, 2025, where he played his first post return match on May 20, against Bournemouth in the Premier League and later played all four matches in the  for the Club World Cup cameo.

    After initially returning to action at the end of last season, Rodri has been building up his fitness in recent weeks as he bids to return to the form that saw him win the Ballon d’Or last year.

    City are used to having to cope in Rodri’s absence, and they did so again as Erling Haaland’s ninth-minute goal proved enough for them to earn all three points via a 1-0 victory in west London.

    Speaking on Friday ahead of the game in west London, City boss Pep Guardiola warned it could take most of the season for Rodri to get back to his best.

    Rodri played an hour of Wednesday’s 2-2 Champions League draw in Monaco after sitting out City’s two previous fixtures, with Guardiola having to carefully manage his star midfielder.

    Meanwhile, before Rodri’s return, football injury expert Ben Dinnery,  cautioned Manchester City against forcing Ballon d’Or winner, Rodri, back to the pitch as he recovers from the knee injury.

    Earlier scheduled to make an appearance in June, he joined his teammates in May instead. Given his recent sideline after the hamstring discomfort, it appears Ben’s prediction was nothing far from the truth.

    His warning followed Pep’s announcement of Rodri’s return to training, though not vividly disclosing his comeback before the close of the season, despite being ruled out for the whole season.

    Rodri picked up a knee injury in September during a clash with Arsenal.

    He told Casino Apps: “We’ve seen Rodri working on the training pitch. Sometimes we have to take what Pep Guardiola says with a pinch of salt. He can be very elusive when responding about a player’s recovery, but if we look at the facts, is a return this season without risk?

    Ben Dinnery was not in favour of Rodri’s seeming rush return, warning of recurring injury. He said, though Pep hasn’t stated the time for the 28-year-old player, he wouldn’t be surprised to see Rodri return this season.

    On his part, the player is likely to pick up another injury if he is not allowed to recover fully.

    He quizzed, “What are Manchester City pushing for? “We’ve seen Rodri working on the training pitch. Sometimes we have to take what Pep Guardiola says with a pinch of salt. He can be very elusive when responding about a player’s recovery, but if we look at the facts, is a return this season without risk?

    Data would tell you there is a possibility of reinjury and further setbacks when returning within the nine months thereafter; that said, players have returned in those timelines and been fine. You have to look at the risk and reward of the situation”.

    The City talisman picked up an injury just 16 minutes into the game after a collision with Arsenal’s Thomas Partey. After the collision, he tried to continue playing; however, after some minutes, he signalled the bench for a substitution because he couldn’t carry on any longer.

    Though the injury expert ruled out the possibility of the midfielder starting any remaining league games, he could be listed for the FA Cup Final squad if Man City secure a top-four finish early.

    “If they secure that top-four position with games to go, you can probably forget about him returning in them. You certainly cannot rule out his return to the matchday squad for the FA Cup Final, but do I see him starting? Probably not. The current City squad have gained a bit of form, the pressure for Pep to take a chance on Rodri has decreased, so it’s difficult to say. There’s a handful of games left, but could he be involved? Absolutely.”

  • Grealish’s first Everton goal ends Palace’s unbeaten run record

    Grealish’s first Everton goal ends Palace’s unbeaten run record

    Man City on-loan forward Jack Grealish notched his first goal on Sunday, October 5, since joining Everton in late July. This wasn’t just any goal but a record-breaking one as his goal not only earned his side a win against in-form Palace but also broke their 19-game unbeaten run since April 2024; Palace have not lost in any of their last nineteen matches.

    But Grealish’s 93rd-minute goal broke this record. Crystal Palace notched their lead at the thirty-seventh (37th) minute into the game through Daniel Muñoz, who finished neatly after getting a pass from Ismaila Sarr.

    Before that, Tyrick Mitchell had already hit the post, and Palace looked the better team for most of the first half.

    Everton’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, was playing his 300th Premier League match.

    David Moyes’ team returned from the second half with a whole new momentum. Moyes substituted Tyler Dibling and Thierno Barry at half-time and replaced them with Charly Alcaraz for added energy and control, and Beto.

    Everton neutralised Crystal Palace’s lead with an equaliser in the 76th minute when Iliman Ndiaye scored a penalty after Maxence Lacroix fouled Tim Iroegbunam in the box.

    Just when it looked like the game would end in a draw, Jack Grealish, on loan from Manchester City, scored in the 93rd minute.

    He scored after the Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson blocked Beto’s header, and Grealish reacted quickly to score the rebound.

    In a post-match interview, Grealish expressed his excitement after notching such a goal for his side.

    He told Everton TV,

    “I’m over the moon to get my first goal and to do it here at Hill Dickinson in front of the Evertonians.”

    Statistics for the Crystal Palace and Everton game 

    Everton led in possession, passing accuracy, big chances, and attacking touches. Crystal Palace led in defensive metrics like tackles, clearances, and fouls committed.

    Both teams had equal saves (5) and no red cards.

    See Palace’s unbeaten run since April 2024

    They won their final 6 matches of the 2023/24 Premier League season and secured victory in the FA Cu p final in May 2025. Community Shield win in August 2025.

    They didn’t lose in any of their first 6 matchdays of the 2025/26 Premier League season. And all these achievements, the Eagles have made under head coach Oliver Glasner’s tenure.

    Oliver Glasner joined Crystal Palace on February 19, 2024, taking over from Roy Hodgson, who stepped down earlier that month due to health concerns and poor form.

    Meanwhile, the on-loan midfielder has displayed incredible form since he joined Everton about a month ago. He has won about two Man of the Match awards already, admitting a tactical freedom he has earned with the Toffees, which is bringing out the best in him.

    Speaking during an interview with SkySports’ Tim Sherwood, the England forward, though admitting his off-field lifestyle affected his form and effectiveness on the pitch, stressed that that was not entirely the case.

    One of the major things that affected him was an emotional disconnect at Etihad, hence his move to his current club. According to him, he is most effective in an environment where he feels loved and welcomed.

    “I’m at my best when I feel loved. You know, I’m quite vulnerable off the pitch, and I wanted to go somewhere to just feel the love again and just wake up with a smile on my face and want to play again,” he added.

    Jack’s last days at Etihad are generally described as difficult. For one who is normally listed as a starter in Pep’s squad, particularly in key matches, Grealish began losing his spot, leading to his starting in just seven matches out of 38 Premier League matches in the 2024/25 season, with two youngsters, Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden, taking his spot with more energy and finishing.

    Pep, during a media conference, addressed concerns raised about Grealish’s limited time, and he said,

    “You have to fight with Savinho—the impact he has had this season is amazing. Jeremy Doku is incredible, a top player as well. Phil Foden can play on the left as well; that’s the point. It’s never against a player from my point of view. It’s OK, accept the challenge, prove you are the best.”

    He also added:

    “I want much more… This is the level I would like to see from Jack. But it has not been like that”. While he never publicly addressed Jack’s dip in form to his off-field lifestyle, it is reported that Guardiola warned Grealish privately about his off-field activities, suggesting they could affect his form and future at the club, which subsequently did.

    While at Man City, some pundits blame his slump in form on Pep, for trying to mould Grealish into a possession-heavy, disciplined winger, which clashed with his natural free-flowing style. Analysts noted he became a “shadow of his best self” as he was asked to prioritise ball retention over flair.

    However, under the leadership of Moyes, Everton’s coach, Jack says the tactical freedom he’s found has reignited his spark.

    “I don’t mean this in an arrogant way, but I do like it when managers say, ‘you’re the footballer, go and do what you want to do.’

    “Obviously, you have your jobs. You have your roles to do without the ball and set pieces, but he says to me, ‘when you get the ball, just go and do what you want to do.’”

    Grealish is next in action when Everton face West Ham in the Premier League at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday night.

    Jack Grealish officially joined Everton on August 13, 2025, on a season-long loan from Manchester City at a reported fee of £15 million for the season. Since joining Everton, he has provided 4 assists in 5 league games, after which he won Man of the Match vs Brighton & Wolves, earning praises for his creativity and tempo control. He currently has an average rating of 7.48, the highest among Everton midfielders.

    Jack Grealish joined Man City in 2021 in a £100m deal from Aston Villa, which was described as the most expensive in the history of football at the time. Jack Grealish spent a total of 19 years at Aston Villa, including his youth and senior career. He joined the club’s academy in 2002 at the age of six and remained there until 2021.

  • EPL: Kudus tops list as player with the highest assists as of early October 2025/26 season

    EPL: Kudus tops list as player with the highest assists as of early October 2025/26 season

    Mohammed Kudus has hit the ground running at Spurs, adapting quickly and emerging with a stunning record since joining the English club in early July this year.

    He notched his first goal and provided his fourth assist during his side’s clash with Leeds at Elland Road on Saturday, October 4.

    Just twenty-three minutes into the game, Kudus passed the ball to Mathys Tel, whose deflected shot gave Spurs the lead.

    Leeds equalised Spurs’ lead in the 34th minute through Noah Okafor. However, after twenty-three (23) minutes, Kudus notched a goal in the 57th minute with a superb finish from the edge of the box, restoring his team’s lead.

    Reacting to Kudus form, former Man Utd forward and the club’s all-time leading goal scorer Rooney, speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, noted that Kudus currently sits atop list of players with the most assist in the 2025/2026 season. Though on-loan Jack Grealish who is currently playing till season end at Everton from Man City, also has four assist, Kudus sits as top assist provider in Rooney’s books due to his permanency at Tottenham.

    Rooney said, “He’s got four assists, which is joint-highest in the Premier League right now, and by far the most successful dribbles. All that was missing was the goal, and I think that strike today will push him to the next level,” he added.

    Rooney also admitted that Mohammed Kudus since joining Spurs on July 10 in a £55 million transfer from West Ham United has become “a breath of fresh air” highlighting his successful dribbles, finishing and accuracy.

    “I think he’s been a breath of fresh air. When you look at the stats from today’s game against Leeds, he’s first in every category: duels won, successful dribbles, shots, touches in the opposition box, and sprints. He’s had a real impact for Tottenham this season,” the England legend added.

    Kudus will now turn his attention to international duty, as he joins the Ghana national team ahead of their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against the Central African Republic and Comoros later this month.

    Black Stars are set to pitch their camp in Morocco for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR), slated for October 8.

    Black Stars, who were originally scheduled to assemble and camp in Accra, will now head straight to Morocco. 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.

    The four-time African champions need just four points from the two fixtures to secure their ticket to next year’s tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

    After failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghanaian attacking midfielder and Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus has expressed optimism about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Kudus said the squad, including himself, is heading in the right direction and will do everything possible to secure qualification.

    “We have to qualify at all costs. I think we are on the right path now. Obviously, AFCON is also one of the major tournaments that the country loves and wants to participate in. Not qualifying was a big disappointment, but I think the full focus now is on the World Cup qualifiers,” Kudus said.

    He highlighted that the current Black Stars squad are competent enough to replicate and even go beyond what their predecessors did about a decade and a half ago when they sailed through to the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup tournament.

    “2010, we went all the way to the quarterfinals. And I believe this squad can even do more than that. But first we have to qualify, and then we can focus on the tournament itself.”

    For the 25-year-old, representing Ghana goes beyond sport, carrying deep personal pride.

    “I think you represent your country like a one-time thing. That’s the one with the biggest emotion and feeling for me. It means a lot wearing that jersey with a lot of pride,” he added.

    Also, Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo, has finalised his squad for the double-header. He released the squad list yesterday, October 2, with the official list . Following the clash with CAR, the Black Stars will return to Accra to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, in their final qualifier.

    Full Squad Overview

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah)

    Ghana currently lead Group I with 19 points and require a victory to confirm their fifth World Cup appearance.

    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.

  • Kudus has been a breath of fresh air – Wayne Rooney praises Ghana international for stunning start at Spurs 

    Kudus has been a breath of fresh air – Wayne Rooney praises Ghana international for stunning start at Spurs 

    Ghana international Mohammed Kudus has become “a breath of fresh air” for former Man Utd forward and the club’s all-time leading goal scorer.

    This comes after Kudus played a crucial role in Spurs’ win against Leeds United in their game at Elland Road on Saturday, October 4.

    Just twenty-three minutes into the game, Kudus passed the ball to Mathys Tel, whose deflected shot gave Spurs the lead.

    Leeds equalised Spurs’ lead in the 34th minute through Noah Okafor. However, after twenty-three (23) minutes, Kudus notched a goal in the 57th minute with a superb finish from the edge of the box, restoring his team’s lead.

    This has earned him some praise from Rooney, who lauded him for his form since joining Spurs on July 10 in a £55 million transfer from West Ham United.

    Rooney, speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, lauded Kudus’s all-round contribution.

    “I think he’s been a breath of fresh air. When you look at the stats from today’s game against Leeds, he’s first in every category: duels won, successful dribbles, shots, touches in the opposition box, and sprints. He’s had a real impact for Tottenham this season,” the England legend said.

    In a breakdown of his performance statistics since joining Tottenham, Rooney explained that “he’s got four assists, which is joint-highest in the Premier League right now, and by far the most successful dribbles. All that was missing was the goal, and I think that strike today will push him to the next level,” he added.

    Kudus will now turn his attention to international duty, as he joins the Ghana national team ahead of their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against the Central African Republic and Comoros later this month.

    Rooney praising Kudus for being “a breath of fresh air” comes on the sidelines of his recent frustration with his former club, Man Utd, for their devastating performance in recent times 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 3-1 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.

    Man Utd appointed Ruben Amorim in November, and for about ten months now, the Reds haven’t seen any significant revival in their fortunes. The team keep regressing when fans anticipated a turnaround after the dismissal of Erik ten Hag in October 2024 for his poor run. Head coach Amorim has taken just 34 points from his 33 Premier League games in charge.

    Despite the ongoing poor form, which includes last month’s Carabao Cup exit at League Two Grimsby, Amorim reportedly retains the backing of United’s board.

    United endured their worst Premier League campaign last season, finishing 15th, their lowest position since they were relegated from the old First Division in 1974.

    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.”

    With passion, he spoke about how the culture of the club has died, citing how people on the sidelines are quitting and others being laid off; everything shows this is not the Man Utd he knows. Expressing fears about the potential of it affecting his two children, who are currently enrolled in the club’s academy.

    “The culture of that football club has gone,” added the former England captain. I see it daily, I see staff losing jobs, people walking out of jobs. I’ve got two kids [in the academy] at that football club, and I really hope this doesn’t affect what they’re doing -what I’m seeing at that football club is not Manchester United

    United, who sit 14th in the table, return to action on Saturday at home to Sunderland before travelling to leaders Liverpool after the October international break.

    Rooney has been quite vocal about his former club’s status recently. Manchester United suffered an embarrassing defeat to Manchester City yesterday, Sunday, 14 September at the Etihad Stadium. The Reds lost against their rivals in a 0-3 derby with a brace from Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.

    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 with 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.

    He went on to question, “What are the patterns? What are we seeing that might improve the team moving forward?”

    United finished 15th in the league last term with 42 points, their lowest position since 1989–90. They earned their fewest points in a top-flight season since they were last relegated in 1973–74.Since Amorim’s arrival, they have spent about £250m on new signings, while shipping out most of their so-called ‘bomb squad’.

    This has allowed the 40-year-old coach to revamp his side into a 3-4-3 system that he has vowed not to deviate from after enjoying success with Sporting.

  • Reverb Studios: Joe Mettle launches ultra-modern multi-storey creative facility

    Reverb Studios: Joe Mettle launches ultra-modern multi-storey creative facility

    Renowned gospel musician Joe Mettle has set a record as the first Ghanaian gospel artist to build and launch a full-scale, multi-storey creative facility.


    The studio, Reverb Studios, situated in Sowutuom, Accra, is a modern multimedia and production centre which was launched on Saturday, October 4.


    Reverb Studios, with a motto “Experience Beyond Production,” according to Joe Mettle, was built to suit international standards in terms of client comfort, acoustic engineering and soundproofing, accessibility and booking systems and multi-functional spaces.


    The main studio has the capacity to hold about 150 to 200 people, a good space to allow live music shows, talk shows, and audience recordings.


    Reverb Studios also has three professional audio recording rooms, a video post-production studio for both live and recorded editing.


    Joe Mettle, during a speech at the launch, explained that every part of Reverb Studios was carefully designed to make clients comfortable and inspired.


    It presents guests with beautifully furnished guest rooms, modern restrooms, fully equipped kitchens on each floor (three floors) with contracted chefs to provide meals for clients and guests and it’s accessible to everyone.


    However, to ensure the sustainability of the facility, he added that there will be rules and guidelines for how the space will be put to use.


    The studio’s motto is “Experience Beyond Production.”
    This means Reverb Studios aims to give clients more than just technical services, it wants to provide a complete creative experience that inspires and supports artists, brands, and event organisers in Ghana and beyond.


    The launch was nothing short of a star-studded event, bringing together numerous creatives from the music, media and movie industry.
    Some of the well-known people present included Kuami Eugene, Akesse Brempong, Adjetey Anang, Nii Okai, Cwesi Oteng, Roselyn Felli, Arnold Asamoah Baidoo, and Kwesi Ernest.

    Meanwhile, in May this year, Joe Mettle has revealed plans to pull out from future nominations for the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs).

    His decision stems from the demands of the awards process, which he believes sometimes an artist may not be ready for due to other equally important engagements.

    “I think I do [have intentions to retire from the awards]. There are things the awards require that sometimes you’re not able to do. Because once you’re nominated, you need to push it, and sometimes a lot is going on. Sometimes it gets to a point where so much is happening around you that you can’t fully commit to the requirements,” he stated.

    Joe Mettle added that thoughts of stepping back from the award scheme have been lingering for the past 3-4 years. However, he clarified that his decision is not coming from a place of pride or arrogance, as many would assume.

    “For the past three or four years, I’ve wanted to take a step back from the awards. And it’s not because I think I’ve outgrown them, no, it’s not that,” he said.

    He continued that, on most occasions, artists who don’t actively promote their nominations are not arrogant; that is often a misunderstanding.

    In the media, they might think you’re acting ‘big,’ but it’s not the case. Most of those are assumptions,” he explained.

    The “Onwanwani” singer further shared that an artist’s career goes through different seasons, and there are times when one’s focus naturally shifts, making full participation in award-related activities challenging.

    “There are seasons. A time comes when you realize you can’t commit to the awards like you used to. But it’s not because you’ve outgrown them,” he added.

    Despite his reflections on stepping back, Joe Mettle had a successful night at the 2025 TGMAs, taking home two awards: Best Gospel Artiste of the Year and Best Male Vocal Performance for his song “Obo Awan Oba.”

    He was unable to show up for his two awards due to issues he encountered with his ticketing.

    Upon his arrival at the event’s grounds, he was prevented from entry as organisers cited that his ticket had already been used; however, after attempts to resolve it, the event staff confirmed it was a network error, hence granting him entry.

    Joe mettle is a celeberated Ghanaian gospel singer and songwriter known for his worship music that has tourched many lifes across Africa and beyond.

    He has gained widespread recognition with hit songs like “My Everything,” “Onwanwani,” and Bo Noo Ni” which have become staples in many church worship sessions.

  • Kubala kingdom sent me an email to be their queen months ago – Afua Asantewaa

    Kubala kingdom sent me an email to be their queen months ago – Afua Asantewaa

    Self-styled king, Atehene, of the Kingdom of Kubala, a group identifying as an African tribe, sent an email inviting Guinness World Record singathon contender Afua Asantewaa, the journalist has confirmed.

    Sharing the details of the email in a post shared on her official X (formerly) on Thursday, October 2, Afua said, the Atehene showered praises on her, calling her a queen and theneed to be treated as one, hence he extended an invitation to her to join their Scotland-based kingdom.

    She made the post in the morning shortly before news broke of King Atehene’s arrest and removal from a forest in Scotland.

    A major highlight she shared from the mail was the ‘king’s’ advice to her to continue listening to Woyaya by Osibisa, which she mentioned was actually hr favourite song.

    “I got an email from the Kubala family, I think some months ago, if not a year, and I remember vividly that the Kubala king told me that I am a queen and I deserve to be in the Kubala kingdom. He actually said nice things to me, and one of the key things he told me was to keep singing and listening to Woyaya by Osibisa. You all know it’s my favourite,” she said.

    According to her, she had heard no news about this self-acclaimed king and his kingdom until they began to make headlines in recent reportage globallyShe ridiculed how and where she would have been if she had paid a good attention to the mail from the embattled king.

    “So recently I’ve been seeing videos of… I actually didn’t know who or like what group of people the Kubala whatever was, and so recently I saw some videos that they are being evacuated, supposed kingdom, and it amazes me,” she explained.

    Afua also noted that the email was lengthy and detailed, adding that it left her wondering whether other people also received similar invitations.

    “I don’t know if they send emails to other people, but it’s quite sad, and reading more about the kingdom I just imagine myself in such a situation because one of the queens I’m told was living a normal life until she got to the kingdom. You know, so I would have been called a full Kubala.

    “I wish I could share the email with you guys. It was very detailed and interesting to read. That’s just by the way, things we receive in our DMs from strange places only God can help us. If you are not guided and if your instinct is not that strong, you end up in the Kubala kingdom,” she said.

    About the Kubala kingdom and its members

    News emerged about this group of people led by a former copera singer, Kofi Offeh (who calls himself King Atehene). Kofi Offeh was initially known in Ghana as a musician who gained popularity in the UK after moving there to pursue a career in entertainment around 2010-2015.

    He performed at a forum on the UK Parliamentary estate, singing both the Ghanaian and British national anthems with both politicians, nobles and London mayoral candidates in attendance. He became involved in various entertainment and property ventures in the UK, some of which were later dissolved. He also ran a networking agency called Black British Entertainment and used the stage name “Nino”

    His wife, Jean Gasho (Queen Nandi), along with a young American woman, Kaura Taylor (Asnat), who lived in a forest near Jedburgh, Scotland, claimed to reclaim ancestral land. The group was evicted and arrested in October 2025.

    Kofi Offeh (King Atehene) and his group moved to the Scottish forests near Jedburgh in the spring of 2025, around May, with the justification that they were reclaiming the land stolen from their ancestors 400 years ago.

    After ignoring several notices of eviction, videos shared online showed police and immigration officials dismantling their camp while some of the group’s members were taken away on October 2.

    Jean Gasho’s who poses as the wife of the Kubala king is also a former opera singer and blogger who openly discussed their polyamorous marriage, referring to other women in their circle as “wives” with a Kaura Taylor, a 21 year old who was reported, missing during the post COVID era by Dallas, Texas, police poses as a haidmaiden identified as Asnat in the kingdom. 

    In a video which was posted by the Kubala Kingdom in June 2025, Kaura Taylor said: “I fled willingly from a toxic lifestyle… I am not missing. Leave me alone. I am an adult, I am not a helpless child.”

  • Why Lumba wanted Ofori Amponsah to be removed from his Val’s Day Concert

    Why Lumba wanted Ofori Amponsah to be removed from his Val’s Day Concert

    Late highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, notably refused to acknowledge or interact with his mentee and fellow musician, Ofori Amponsah, on stage during his birthday, despite Ofori performing and being present throughout the night.

    This was prior to an incident where Daddy Lumba had demanded the removal of Ofori Amponsah from the lineup of artists scheduled to perform at his concert on Valentine’s Day, dubbed “Valentine With Daddy Lumba.”

    Diving into the details behind the drop, Executive Director of Event Factory Ghana Limited, Nabil Alhassan, who is directly involved in organizing major entertainment events in Ghana, during an appearance on UTV’s United Showbiz on Saturday, October 5, named Lumba as one of the most difficult artistes he has ever worked with, highlighting how after artistes scheduled to perform at Lumba’s Valentine’s Day Concert had been finalized, he received a call from Serwaa Amihere, which was a conference call including Daddy Lumba.

    He said Lumba insisted that Ofori Amponsah be taken off the show or he wouldn’t perform.

    “We made our first payment, and publicity started. One day, I saw Serwaa Amihere calling me. She said Daddy was on the line and wanted to speak to me about something going on. He said, ‘Nabil, how are you? I want you to take Ofori off the show,’” he said.

    After probing why he wanted Ofori off the show, Nabil disclosed that Lumba informed him about how rumours suggested his former mentee had bad-mouthed him.

    Nabil further detailed that after constantly questioning the late musician for the reason behind his request, Daddy Lumba claimed Ofori Amponsah’s name was not included in the initial list of performers.

    “Guess what, Ofori has been on his show at the birthday party, so I thought everything was cool… I asked him, ‘Daddy, what is happening?’ He was like, the last time we spoke to him, we didn’t include that Ofori Amponsah was part of the artistes performing.

    Serwaa then informed him that we mentioned Ofori’s name. After that, he said someone had called him to inform him that Ofori was part of the people who once insulted him, so we should remove Ofori’s name from the list.”

    Nabil also shared how the late Daddy Lumba finally gave in after apologies were made.

    “Lumba can refund your money at any time. When he comes to your show, he has your money in his hands. Any small mistake, he would leave… So I was hanging… We spoke to him, and he said either Ofori will perform before he comes or after,” he added.

    The news of Daddy Lumba’s passing hit the world in the early hours of Saturday. Initially, when news of his passing emerged, a journalist of Hitz FM, Andy Dosty, came to deny it, noting that Daddy Lumba was alive. However, barely three hours later, Daddy Lumba (DL) FM released an official statement signed by the legend’s lawyer, confirming his demise.

    A statement by the counsel for the Fosu family later confirmed that the music veteran passed on July 26, after a short illness.

    He succumbed to the illness at the Bank Hospital in Accra, per reports.

    The statement reads: “With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana’s beloved musical icon, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away earlier today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness.”

    Daddy Lumba was born 60 years ago to Mr. Johnson Kwadwo Fosuh and Madam Comfort Gyamfi, also known as Ama Saah, in Nsuta, near Mampong in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Both of his parents were teachers, and he was the second of three siblings.

    His educational journey began in Nsuta Kyebi, and he completed junior high school at Suame Methodist, Kumasi in 1979. Subsequently, he attended Adu Gyamfi Senior High School in Jamasi, but later transferred to Juaben Senior High School, where he completed his secondary education in 1984.

    Daddy Lumba’s music career took off in the early 80s when he formed the Nkwanta Wesley Singers, gaining fame at the Anokye Krom Cultural Center.

    During his time at Juaben Senior High School, he led the school choir and composed the song “Lumba Lumba,” dedicated to the freedom fighters in South Africa. This song’s popularity earned him the nickname “Daddy Lumba,” which later became his stage name. He also formed the Lumba Brothers band during his school days, which included his girlfriend at the time, Theresa.

    After completing school, Daddy Lumba, with the help of his high school sweetheart Theresa Abebrese, traveled to Germany. There, he met Ernest Nana Acheampong, and they formed another Lumba Brothers group, recording their debut album, “Yee Ye Aka Akwantuom,” in 1986. Financial constraints delayed the album’s release until 1989, and eventually, the duo split.

    Daddy Lumba then launched his solo career and released his debut solo album, “Obi Ate Meso Buo,” in 1990. The album received immense popularity and critical acclaim, featuring classics like the title track and “Theresa,” dedicated to his ex-lover. He has since released 33 albums, including notable ones like “Sika Asem,” “Aben Wo Ha,” “Wo Ho Kyere,” “Awosoo,” “Give Peace A Chance,” and “Ahenfo Kyiniye.” His latest project, “Ofon Na Edi Asem Fo,” was released in December 2022, reuniting him with longtime collaborator Kweku Mensah.

    In addition to his own success, Daddy Lumba is renowned for nurturing the careers of budding artists who went on to become legends in their own right.

    Some of these artists include Felix Owusu, for whom he produced the debut album “Vida” in 1992, Afia Ampofowaa, Kwabena Sunkwa, Ofori Amponsah with the “Wo Ho Kyere” album in 1999, Selina Orleans, Akua Serwaa Bonsu, Borax, Ateaa Tina, and many others.

    His contributions to Ghanaian music and the support he provided to upcoming talents have solidified his status as an iconic figure in the country’s music industry.

    With his passion, talent, and dedication to the craft, Daddy Lumba continues to be a role model for aspiring musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the rich musical landscape of Ghana.

    Daddy Lumba’s passing serves as a stark reminder of the enduring power of Highlife music as a cultural heritage.

    Highlife, indigenous to Ghana, has evolved over the decades, reflecting the nation’s social, political, and economic landscapes.

    Artists like Daddy Lumba played a pivotal role in modernising the genre, ensuring its relevance and appeal across generations.

    He was just two months away from celebrating his 61st birthday following the grand celebration he had last year, which saw the appearances of many notable personalities.

    “The celebration of his 60th birthday took place on Sunday, September 29, 2024, with a grand event held at Bayview Village, near Atomic Junction in Accra. This marked his first-ever public birthday celebration, which he described as deeply emotional and spiritually significant.”

    Also, his protégés including Ofori Amponsah, Kofi Nti, and Borax were present.

    Media personalities such as Serwaa Amihere, Nana Ama McBrown, Okyeame Kwame, Empress Gifty, Ras Kuuku, gospel stars like Selina Boateng and Daughters of Glorious Jesus, AJ Poundz, Abena Pokuaa Ahwenee, and Kojo Kinn, as well as Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari, and others from the creative arts scene, all made an appearance at the legend’s birthday party.

    Before he performed his last song for the night that day, he rebuffed allegations against his wife, which suggested she had poisoned him.

    He thanked one Mr. Twum and his Agric teacher for being there for him when he wasn’t feeling well.

    “Many accuse my wife, Akosua Serwa, of poisoning me. My wife will not do that. I had a spine surgery. It was Mama Acheampong who took me to the hospital, and Nana Twum paid all my bills. I am grateful to you all.”

  • 2010 FIFA WC: We can do better than our predecessors – Kudus

    2010 FIFA WC: We can do better than our predecessors – Kudus

     Ghanaian attacking midfielder and Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus is confident the current Black Stars can outdo what their predecessors did in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

    In 2010, Ghana’s legendary Black Stars squad reached the quarterfinals of the World Cup in South Africa, coming close to becoming the first African team to qualify for the semi-finals.

    However, the dream was cut short after the team’s top scorer, Asamoah Gyan, missed a crucial penalty that would have sealed the historic achievement.

    Since then, Ghana has barely made it anywhere close to such a stage. In the last World Cup, which was hosted in Qatar, Ghana exited at the group stage.

    However, Kudus is confident that the current squad, including himself, are capable of restoring the country’s dying glory in the sport. During an interview with Sports Illustrated, which was aired on Thursday, October 2, he said, 

    “2010, we went all the way to the quarterfinals. And I believe this squad can even do more than that. But first we have to qualify, and then we can focus on the tournament itself.”

    For the 25-year-old, representing Ghana goes beyond sport, carrying deep personal pride.

    “I think you represent your country like a one-time thing. That’s the one with the biggest emotion and feeling for me. It means a lot wearing that jersey with a lot of pride,” he added.

    The four-time African champions need just four points from the two fixtures to secure their ticket to next year’s tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

    After failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus said, 

    “We have to qualify at all costs. I think we are on the right path now. Obviously, AFCON is also one of the major tournaments that the country loves and wants to participate in. Not qualifying was a big disappointment, but I think the full focus now is on the World Cup qualifiers”.

    The Black Stars are set to pitch their camp in Morocco for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR), slated for October 8.

    Black Stars, who were originally scheduled to assemble and camp in Accra, will now head straight to Morocco. 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.

    “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.

    Also, Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo, has finalised his squad for the double-header. He released the squad list yesterday, October 2, with the official list. Following the clash with CAR, the Black Stars will return to Accra to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, in their final qualifier.

    Full Squad Overview

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah)

    Ghana currently lead Group I with 19 points and require a victory to confirm their fifth World Cup appearance.

    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.

  • FIFA launches 2026 World Cup official ball, the Trionda

    FIFA launches 2026 World Cup official ball, the Trionda

    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.

    In a related development on the World Cup, Black Stars are set to pitch their camp in Morocco for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR), slated for October 8.

    Black Stars, who were originally scheduled to assemble and camp in Accra, will now head straight to Morocco. 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.

    The four-time African champions need just four points from the two fixtures to secure their ticket to next year’s tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

    After failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghanaian attacking midfielder and Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus has expressed optimism about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Kudus said the squad, including himself, is heading in the right direction and will do everything possible to secure qualification.

    “We have to qualify at all costs. I think we are on the right path now. Obviously, AFCON is also one of the major tournaments that the country loves and wants to participate in. Not qualifying was a big disappointment, but I think the full focus now is on the World Cup qualifiers,” Kudus said.

    He highlighted that the current Black Stars squad are competent enough to replicate and even go beyond what their predecessors did about a decade and a half ago when they sailed through to the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup tournament.

    “2010, we went all the way to the quarterfinals. And I believe this squad can even do more than that. But first we have to qualify, and then we can focus on the tournament itself.”

    For the 25-year-old, representing Ghana goes beyond sport, carrying deep personal pride.

    “I think you represent your country like a one-time thing. That’s the one with the biggest emotion and feeling for me. It means a lot wearing that jersey with a lot of pride,” he added.

    Also, Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo, has finalised his squad for the double-header. He released the squad list yesterday, October 2, with the official list. Following the clash with CAR, the Black Stars will return to Accra to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, in their final qualifier.

    Full Squad Overview

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah)

    Ghana currently lead Group I with 19 points and require a victory to confirm their fifth World Cup appearance.

  • “We have to qualify at all costs” – Kudus ahead of 2026 WCQ

    “We have to qualify at all costs” – Kudus ahead of 2026 WCQ

    Black Stars are set to pitch their camp in Morocco for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR), slated for October 8.

    Black Stars, who were originally scheduled to assemble and camp in Accra, will now head straight to Morocco. 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.

    The four-time African champions need just four points from the two fixtures to secure their ticket to next year’s tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

    After failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghanaian attacking midfielder and Tottenham Hotspur star Mohammed Kudus has expressed optimism about the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Kudus said the squad, including himself, is heading in the right direction and will do everything possible to secure qualification.

    “We have to qualify at all costs. I think we are on the right path now. Obviously, AFCON is also one of the major tournaments that the country loves and wants to participate in. Not qualifying was a big disappointment, but I think the full focus now is on the World Cup qualifiers,” Kudus said.

    He highlighted that the current Black Stars squad are competent enough to replicate and even go beyond what their predecessors did about a decade and a half ago when they sailed through to the quarterfinals of the 2010 World Cup tournament.

    “2010, we went all the way to the quarterfinals. And I believe this squad can even do more than that. But first we have to qualify, and then we can focus on the tournament itself.”

    For the 25-year-old, representing Ghana goes beyond sport, carrying deep personal pride.

    “I think you represent your country like a one-time thing. That’s the one with the biggest emotion and feeling for me. It means a lot wearing that jersey with a lot of pride,” he added.

    Also, Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo, has finalised his squad for the double-header. He released the squad list yesterday, October 2, with the official list . Following the clash with CAR, the Black Stars will return to Accra to host Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, in their final qualifier.

    Full Squad Overview

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah)

    Ghana currently lead Group I with 19 points and require a victory to confirm their fifth World Cup appearance.

    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.

    Ghana played in May when they played in the Unity Cup in London, facing their long-standing rivals, Nigeria.

    They lost 1–2 to the Super Eagles but ended with a resounding 4–0 win over Trinidad and Tobago in the third-place play-off.

    Coach Otto Addo blamed their defeat to Nigeria on a lack of chemistry among players who he claims hadn’t played together often.

    Some fans also blamed our underperformance in the cup on the absence of key players like Kudus, Semenyo, and Partey due to club commitments and minor injuries.

    Meanwhile, Black Stars head coach Otto Addo admitted that Ghana’s performance was below par following the squad’s draw with Chad in yesterday’s clash at N’Djamena.

    Speaking during the post-match press conference, the head coach slammed his side for their wastefulness despite dominating play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. According to him, the team wasted opportunities they got from their several dead-ball situations.

    “I can’t say we played excellently, or we played well, because it was a draw. The result is everything; we had a lot of corners, we did nothing out of that…We had a lot of shots, goal attempts, we had a lot of ball possession, and normally we have to win this game. This, in the end, surely, is not good enough, and we have to improve, especially on our execution,” Otto Addo said.

  • Why President should appoint substantive Minister for Defence

    Why President should appoint substantive Minister for Defence

    It has been a month and some weeks since the demise of former Minister for Defence Dr Edward Omane Boamah, on August 6, 2025, in the helicopter crash as of the time of writing this piece.

    The country has still not heard the President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, giving a hint of any appointment with regard to a substantive Minister for Defence (MOD).

    Although security agencies such as the National Security, National Intelligence Bureau, Ghana Police, and Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) are executing their mandate, it is essential to have a substantive MOD as soon as possible for some reasons enumerated.

    The Defence sector is the top-most among every sector in any country, hence requires continuity by replacing officials as soon as possible to fill in the gap. This ensures continuity in dealing with threats and being abreast with the changing dynamics of threats.

    The Ministry of Defence requires a substantive minister for direction and purpose. The Ministry of Defence is currently having an Acting MOD in the person of Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson. In an acting capacity, one is temporarily ‘holding the forth’ until someone is appointed permanently. Dr. Cassiel is also Ghana’s Finance Minister and at the same time Chairman of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development’s Board of Governors as at the time of this piece. This signals the quantum of workload he has. The Defence ministry is a very sensitive agency established to ensure Ghana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty through the formulation of essential policies and ideas aimed at combat readiness of the GAF.

    A substantive Minister of Defence provides leadership with regard to the security space. Defence as a concept in itself is a very essential pillar when it comes to national security. A substantive minister would ensure clear and swift decision-making. Decision makers should not forget that, the Defence Minister is part of Cabinet hence a very important figure when it comes to decision making that bothers on not only security but also human rights, justice, and peace.

    Reference to my article on January 10, 2025 regarding “Imminent changes within some key security agencies, state institutions, and its implications”, I stated that “… [t]he incoming Defense Minister must have the experience and knowledge not only on internal security issues and apparatus of the country but also the professionalism to collaborate with defence counterparts in neighboring states”. It is not a doubt that the late Defence Minister was very intelligent and abreast with security issues including having a very good rapport with the Service Chiefs. The new Defense Minister should be someone who commands respect from the various heads of the security agencies, Service Chiefs, and should be abreast with current security dynamics not only in Ghana but also within the sub-region.

    Inter-agency coordination and collaboration is essential in the face of many threats we face. Leadership is paramount in this regard for the purposes of strategic policy planning and execution. The other most important aspect of coordination is in line with inter-state Defense collaborations in the sub-region and on the international front. A newly appointed Defence Minister will perform functions, which includes strengthening military ties with other states, sub-regional blocks and international institutions aimed at military collaboration, aid, joint training exercises, and capacity building. This gives the Armed Forces new dynamics to defence and security mechanisms. Effective collaboration also promotes coordination among the various arms of the Armed Forces. Lately, our men in uniform have come under severe criticism regarding their way of handling issues in the civilian space. When coordination is effective with state security agencies, it will result to an improved civil-military oversight. An appointed Minister of Defence will ensure an enhanced coordination between the President, various security agencies, service chiefs, and the civilian populace. What we have to know is that, any one acting in a capacity of Defence Minister may lack the authority and zeal to push for major defense agendas including the general welfare of the personnel’s in the sector.

    What are some the threats in the country that warrants a substantive Minister of Defence?

    Ghana faces rising threats such as terrorism & violent extremism close to our borders, illegal mining, communal clashes, inter-ethnic conflicts, and chieftaincy conflicts causing internally and externally displaced persons.

    Furthermore, youth unrest, youth radicalization, political vigilantism, high unemployment, illicit drug usage, misinformation and disinformation, armed robbery, proliferation of small arms and light weapons, organized crime on the high seas and inland, and cybersecurity threats all add to the threats.

    These are just some of the many threats that continue to test our security architecture, emergency preparedness, and operational capacity.

    A substantive minister can mobilize resources and lead responses effectively, working closely with the Interior Minister and Service Chiefs.

    Others may argue that these are for the Interior Minister to focus on or see them as internal security matters; hence, they do not necessarily call for the Defence Minister to be involved.

    However, I am talking about the defense of the country in general (dealing with threats internal and external) and not one aspect of internal security. All these calls for the attention of a substantive Defence Minister, together with the Interior Minister to formulate ideas and address these pressing issues.

    Let me just make a few points on what I consider essential areas to focus on regarding the threats the country faces. With regard to terrorism & violent extremism, the situation in Burkina Faso and Mali poses challenges, especially in the Northern part of Ghana, looking at the inter-ethnic conflicts and proliferation of weapons.

    These conflicts notably the Bawku conflict, which I have reiterated before, could be a conduit for some armed and criminal elements to continue taking advantage.

    On illegal mining, there are calls for the central government to declare a state of emergency to deal decisively with the menace. Instead, the government has rather opted for the declaration of security zones.

    Declaring a geographical area a security zone in itself entails a lot; I may share insights regarding that in another write-up. I do not intend to sound pessimistic, but the fight against galamsey will be a lost cause if we do not implement the needful.

    We have not seen anything yet; the real conflict has not started, and if it does, we may not be able to address it. The conflicts we are currently grappling with centers on chieftaincy and land-related factors.

    The interior minister has attempted by setting up a committee to come up with a roadmap towards addressing the Gbenyiri conflict.

    The Nkwanta conflict is also staring at us; this is just to name a few. Our approaches have been mostly direct prevention (curfews), which focuses on dealing with imminent threats without much attention to the structural approaches. Proliferation of weapons has been a challenge to not only security agencies but also the commission in charge of Small Arms and Light Weapons.

    Do we have a way forward regarding the porous borders where these weapons come through? What is the state agency on weapons doing? How are we dealing with the politicization of conflicts? Have we identified stakeholders who profit from conflicts hence fund them?

    The Council of State should call on the President to consider appointing a substantive Minister for Defence as a matter of urgency.

    The Council of State should advise the president to appoint someone who will command respect from the Defence sector due to its sensitive nature.

    The Parliamentary Select Committee on Defence and Interior should wade into this issue and call on the President to appoint someone. The defence sector is an essential one; hence, the need to have its Minister promptly.

    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

  • Antony admits off-field issues had huge impact on his form at Man Utd

    Antony admits off-field issues had huge impact on his form at Man Utd

    Brazil-born forward and former Man Utd winger, Antony Matheus dos Santos, has addressed concerns about his slump in form at a point during his stint at Old Trafford.

    Signed from AFC Ajax in August 2022 for a reported fee of £85 million (approximately €100 million or $100 million at the time), including add-ons, Antony had struggled for form, scoring only 12 goals in 95 appearances for United.

    Addressing the possible factors that may have affected his stint at Old Trafford, during an engagement with ESPN Brasil, Antony admitted that his “off-field matters” had a huge impact on his form. He lauded his performances, highlighted his abilities, and expressed confidence in his skills, while appreciating his time at Manchester United as a stage for self-discovery.

    “I think off-field matters affected me a lot in my performance. I know my potential, I know my qualities, I didn’t play in a World Cup for nothing, I didn’t return to the national team for nothing. I also take responsibility for it not working out, for not performing as I wanted. But I always try to see the bright side of things. Going through this entire process, this time at United, was necessary to see myself.”

    He also opened up about the challenges he faced during his final days at Old Trafford. The Brazilian revealed that, before his loan move to Real Betis in January, he often felt disrespected, with some people being rude toward him. According to him, it reached a point where people would walk past without even greeting him.

    Antony detailed that, “Look, I’m not the kind of guy who gets involved in controversies, who names people, in fact, I won’t mention anyone’s name here. But I think there was a bit of a lack of respect there, even a bit of rudeness too, with no one giving you a good morning, a good afternoon”.

    He continued that “Not even that. But, anyway, that’s in the past; I won’t give much importance to these things. Now I’m here, at Betis, I’m living here, that’s the most important thing for me.”

    Antony’s dip in form affected his play time under their new coach, Ruben Amori. He was reportedly excluded from Ruben Amorim’s squad, making him an automatic member of a group dubbed the “bomb squad” alongside Jadon Sancho and Rasmus Højlund.

    In between returning to United and re-joining Betis, Antony was reportedly forced to train away from teammates by Ruben Amorim and was not included in the squad for the club’s preseason tour.

    In light of this, he expressed his desire to move. Multiple outlets, including SPORTbible and Relevo, reported that Manchester United had reached a verbal agreement with Real Betis for Antony to join on loan until the end of the season.

    The deal, which was initially structured without a buy option, eventually turned into a permanent move after the Brazil international joined Betis on loan last season before completing a €22 million ($25.6m) permanent move in the summer. Antony snubbed multiple offers from other clubs, including Saudi and Brazilian sides, as he held out for a permanent move to Real Betis.

    Manchester United signed Antony Matheus dos Santos from AFC Ajax in August 2022 for a reported fee of £85 million (approximately €100 million or $100 million at the time), including add-ons. However, Antony had struggled for form, scoring only 12 goals in 95 appearances for United.

    Subsequently, he was reportedly excluded from Ruben Amorim’s squad, making him an automatic member of a group dubbed the “bomb squad” alongside Jadon Sancho and Rasmus Højlund.

    In between returning to United and re-joining Betis, Antony was reportedly forced to train away from teammates by Ruben Amorim and was not included in the squad for the club’s preseason tour.

    In light of this, he expressed his desire to move. Multiple outlets, including SPORTbible and Relevo, reported that Manchester United had reached a verbal agreement with Real Betis for Antony to join on loan until the end of the season.

    The deal, which was initially structured without a buy option, eventually turned into a permanent move after the Brazil international joined Betis on loan last season before completing a €22 million ($25.6m) permanent move in the summer. Antony snubbed multiple offers from other clubs, including Saudi and Brazilian sides, as he held out for a permanent move to Real Betis.

    Antony’s admitting that his off-field lifestyle largely impacted his form comes a few days after former Man City Jack Grealish admitted to the same.

    Initially listed as a starter in Pep’s squad, particularly in key matches, Grealish began losing his spot.

    Leading to his starting in just seven matches out of 38 Premier League matches in the 2024/25 season, with two youngsters, Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden, taking his spot with more energy and finishing.

    Pep, during a media conference, addressed concerns raised about Grealish’s limited time, and he said,

    “You have to fight with Savinho—the impact he has had this season is amazing. Jeremy Doku is incredible, a top player as well. Phil Foden can play on the left as well; that’s the point. It’s never against a player from my point of view. It’s OK, accept the challenge, prove you are the best.”

    He also added:

    “I want much more… This is the level I would like to see from Jack. But it has not been like that”.While he never publicly addressed Jack’s dip in form to his off-field lifestyle, it is reported that Guardiola warned Grealish privately about his off-field activities, suggesting they could affect his form and future at the club, which subsequently did.

    In an interview with SkySports, Tim Sherwood, the British player, admitted that his off-field activities were part of the decline in performance, but stressed that it was not entirely the case.

    Living a more balanced life could have produced a different story, he said, but his timing was not always the best. And his off-field lifestyle, partying, and trips are to enjoy life to the fullest.

    “People go, ‘he likes to go out, he likes to party,’ and I do. I want to be able to live my life and enjoy myself, but obviously, there’s a time and a place to do that. Sometimes, I’ll be honest with you, I probably haven’t picked the right times. At City, I didn’t help myself at times, I’ll openly say that, but then I don’t think it was all down to that, ” Grealish said.

    However, his main reason for leaving Etihad was that he wanted to feel loved again. He felt disconnected while at Man City, which in turn affected his effectiveness, as he is at his best when he feels loved.

    “I’m at my best when I feel loved. You know, I’m quite vulnerable off the pitch, and I wanted to go somewhere to just feel the love again and just wake up with a smile on my face and want to play again,” he added.

    While at Man City, some pundits blame his slump in form on Pep, for trying to mould Grealish into a possession-heavy, disciplined winger, which clashed with his natural free-flowing style. Analysts noted he became a “shadow of his best self” as he was asked to prioritise ball retention over flair.

    However, under the leadership of Moyes, Everton’s coach, Jack says the tactical freedom he’s found has reignited his spark.

    “I don’t mean this in an arrogant way, but I do like it when managers say, ‘you’re the footballer, go and do what you want to do.’

    “Obviously, you have your jobs. You have your roles to do without the ball and set pieces, but he says to me, ‘when you get the ball, just go and do what you want to do.’”

  • Disrespect and rudeness: Antony Santos recalls treatment before Old Trafford exit

    Disrespect and rudeness: Antony Santos recalls treatment before Old Trafford exit

    Former Manchester United winger Antony Matheus dos Santos has opened up about the challenges he faced during his final days at Old Trafford. The Brazilian revealed that, before his loan move to Real Betis in January, he often felt disrespected, with some people being rude toward him. According to him, it reached a point where people would walk past without even greeting him.

    During an engagement with ESPN Brasil, Antony detailed that, “Look, I’m not the kind of guy who gets involved in controversies, who names people, in fact, I won’t mention anyone’s name here. But I think there was a bit of a lack of respect there, even a bit of rudeness too, with no one giving you a good morning, a good afternoon”.

    He continued that “Not even that. But, anyway, that’s in the past; I won’t give much importance to these things. Now I’m here, at Betis, I’m living here, that’s the most important thing for me.”

    Addressing the possible factors that may have affected his stint at Old Trafford, Antony admitted that his “off-field matters” had a huge impact on his form. He lauded his performances, highlighted his abilities, and expressed confidence in his skills, while appreciating his time at Manchester United as a stage for self-discovery.

    “I think off-field matters affected me a lot in my performance. I know my potential, I know my qualities, I didn’t play in a World Cup for nothing, I didn’t return to the national team for nothing. I also take responsibility for it not working out, for not performing as I wanted. But I always try to see the bright side of things. Going through this entire process, this time at United, was necessary to see myself.”

    Manchester United signed Antony Matheus dos Santos from AFC Ajax in August 2022 for a reported fee of £85 million (approximately €100 million or $100 million at the time), including add-ons. However, Antony had struggled for form, scoring only 12 goals in 95 appearances for United.

    Subsequently, he was reportedly excluded from Ruben Amorim’s squad, making him an automatic member of a group dubbed the “bomb squad” alongside Jadon Sancho and Rasmus Højlund.

    In between returning to United and re-joining Betis, Antony was reportedly forced to train away from teammates by Ruben Amorim and was not included in the squad for the club’s preseason tour.

    In light of this, he expressed his desire to move. Multiple outlets, including SPORTbible and Relevo, reported that Manchester United had reached a verbal agreement with Real Betis for Antony to join on loan until the end of the season. 

    The deal, which was initially structured without a buy option, eventually turned into a permanent move after the Brazil international joined Betis on loan last season before completing a €22 million ($25.6m) permanent move in the summer. Antony snubbed multiple offers from other clubs, including Saudi and Brazilian sides, as he held out for a permanent move to Real Betis.

    Antony’s admitting that his off-field lifestyle largely impacted his form comes a few days after former Man City Jack Grealish admitted to the same.

    Initially listed as a starter in Pep’s squad, particularly in key matches, Grealish began losing his spot.

    Leading to his starting in just seven matches out of 38 Premier League matches in the 2024/25 season, with two youngsters, Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden, taking his spot with more energy and finishing.

    Pep, during a media conference, addressed concerns raised about Grealish’s limited time, and he said,

    “You have to fight with Savinho—the impact he has had this season is amazing. Jeremy Doku is incredible, a top player as well. Phil Foden can play on the left as well; that’s the point. It’s never against a player from my point of view. It’s OK, accept the challenge, prove you are the best.”

    He also added:

    “I want much more… This is the level I would like to see from Jack. But it has not been like that”.While he never publicly addressed Jack’s dip in form to his off-field lifestyle, it is reported that Guardiola warned Grealish privately about his off-field activities, suggesting they could affect his form and future at the club, which subsequently did.

    In an interview with SkySports, Tim Sherwood, the British player, admitted that his off-field activities were part of the decline in performance, but stressed that it was not entirely the case.

    Living a more balanced life could have produced a different story, he said, but his timing was not always the best. And his off-field lifestyle, partying, and trips are to enjoy life to the fullest.

    “People go, ‘he likes to go out, he likes to party,’ and I do. I want to be able to live my life and enjoy myself, but obviously, there’s a time and a place to do that. Sometimes, I’ll be honest with you, I probably haven’t picked the right times. At City, I didn’t help myself at times, I’ll openly say that, but then I don’t think it was all down to that, ” Grealish said.

    However, his main reason for leaving Etihad was that he wanted to feel loved again. He felt disconnected while at Man City, which in turn affected his effectiveness, as he is at his best when he feels loved.

    “I’m at my best when I feel loved. You know, I’m quite vulnerable off the pitch, and I wanted to go somewhere to just feel the love again and just wake up with a smile on my face and want to play again,” he added.

  • 2026 WCQ: Otto Addo releases 26-man squad for CAR clash

    2026 WCQ: Otto Addo releases 26-man squad for CAR clash

    Black Stars coach, Otto Addo, has announced his squad for the final FIFA World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic and the Comoros.

    Ghana currently have two more matches to determine their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their next clash is on Wednesday, October 8, at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknes, Morocco, at 16:00 GMT.

    Consequently, Otto Addo on October 2 released a twenty-six-man squad (26) which includes 3 goalkeepers, 8 defenders, 5 midfielders, and 10 forwards.

    The squad has a debutant, Medeama SC midfielder Prince Owusu, who has earned a call-up after his brilliant start to the 2025/2026 Ghana Premier League.

    Leicester City winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Alidu Seidu of OGC Nice have both been included in the squad following their missing out on the previous lineup for both the Chad and Mali games.

    The duo were left out of the September squad by head coach Otto Addo as a precaution, given that they are still in recovery from different injuries.

    Abdul Fatawu Issahaku returns to the squad after a stellar performance for Leicester City in the English Championship, having been sidelined since November due to an Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury.

    Alidu Seidu also makes a return after recovering from a long-standing knee injury that kept him out of the squad since November last year.

    See the full squad overview:

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (St. Gallen), Benjamin Asare (Hearts of Oak), Joseph Anang (St. Patrick’s Athletic)

    Defenders: Alexander Djiku (Spartak Moscow), Mohammed Salisu (AS Monaco), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Caleb Yirenkyi (FC Nordsjælland), Kojo Peprah Oppong (OGC Nice)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Villarreal CF), Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur), Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Kwasi Sibo (Real Oviedo), Prince Owusu (Medeama SC)

    Forwards: Inaki Williams (Athletic Club), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy), Kamaldeen Sulemana (Atalanta), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Leicester City), Jordan Ayew (Leicester City), Christopher Bonsu Baah (Al-Qadsiah)

    The Black Stars on matchday 9 will face the Central African Republic at Stade d’Honneur de Meknes on Wednesday, October 8, before hosting Comoros on matchday 10 at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 12, 2025.

    The Black Stars are currently on top of Group I with 19 points and will need at least 3 points in their final two games to secure Ghana’s 5th FIFA World Cup qualification.

    Meanwhile, the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, has announced a change in the Black Stars’ 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.

    Ghana currently lead Group I with 19 points and require a victory to confirm their fifth World Cup appearance.

    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.