TIG Post

Author: Abigail Ampofo

  • Missing UCC student found dead at beach, autopsy pending – Police confirm 

    Missing UCC student found dead at beach, autopsy pending – Police confirm 

    A Level 200 student of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Innocentia Avinu, who was reported missing barely a week ago, has been confirmed dead after an intensive search for her whereabouts.

    This comes after her relatives identified her body after it was found washed ashore near Hutchland Beach Resort in Cape Coast.

    The deceased student was last seen on June 11 at the Ayensu Plaza Hostel on the UCC campus. According to family members, she was wearing a black dress when she left the hostel to meet an acquaintance, identified only as Ancelotti, outside the university community.

    However, she failed to return, prompting concerns about her whereabouts.

    A search was subsequently launched by relatives and friends, who appealed to the public for assistance in locating her.

    Police reports indicate that the UCC District Police Command received information at about 3:15 a.m. on June 12 that the body of an unidentified female, believed to be between 25 and 30 years old, had been discovered on the beach.

    A team of police officers dispatched to the scene found the body lying face down, with blood oozing from the nose. A preliminary examination conducted at the scene revealed no visible signs of assault or other external injuries.

    Photographs were taken, and the body was conveyed to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital mortuary pending identification and an autopsy.

    Subsequently, the Dean of Students of the University of Cape Coast joined police investigators and family members at the mortuary, where the body was formally identified and confirmed to be that of the missing student.

    Police said a further examination of the body in the presence of relatives did not reveal any physical injuries or signs of violence.

    The Central Regional Crime Scene Management Team has since visited and processed the location where the body was found as part of ongoing investigations.

    The body remains at the mortuary awaiting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

    The circumstances surrounding the student’s death remain unclear, and police have assured the public that investigations are ongoing to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

  • Health Minister urges investment in health facilities amid proposed admission cuts to health institutions

    Health Minister urges investment in health facilities amid proposed admission cuts to health institutions

    Health Minister Mintah Akandoh has suggested a rechanneling of funds that will be accrued from a proposed reduction in admission to health institutions.

    The Minister’s comments came after he revealed that as part of measures to tackle unemployment in the health sector the government is considering a cut in the number of admissions into health training institutions nationwide. 

    “We must start analysing our admissions into nursing training colleges. What’s the point of training more if we cannot recruit them? On average, they [nursing training colleges] admit 34,000 to 35,000 students every year. However, the absorption rate is not proportional to the admissions. So, the government is reviewing that, ” he said.

    He believes that, given the current state of healthcare facilities, funds saved from this proposed reduction in admissions to health institutions may be used to purchase equipment to strengthen healthcare delivery across the country.

    “But it’ s up to all of us. Whether to continue on this path or to drop that quota and invest in equipment. Then we can include more people. This is something for all of us to consider, ” Mr Akandoh explained during the Volta Regional launch of the Free Primary Healthcare Policy in Ho on June 12. 

    According to statistics available, every year Ghana admits about 34,000–35,000 students into nursing and health training institutions, but the government only recruits around 14,000–16,000 health workers annually, leaving a backlog of about 18,000–20,000 graduates annually who remain unemployed or underemployed.

    The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, called for collective efforts to ensure the policy’s success.

    “Through the implementation of the primary healthcare strategy, we aim to improve health outcomes, reduce inequalities in access to healthcare services, and move steadily towards achieving universal health coverage

  • Attorney General announces interim measures for transition into new legal education system

    The government has announced temporary measures as Ghana transitions into its new legal education system. The system is set to give more potential lawyers an opportunity to pursue the profession after long wait for professional legal training.

    The transitional directives under Ghana’s new Legal Education Act, 2026 (Act 1170) were released on 12 June 2026 through a formal circular signed by Professor Raymond Atuguba, Director of Legal Education and Director of the Ghana School of Law. He issued them on behalf of the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, acting under the authority of the General Legal Council.

    “As you are well aware, the Legal Education Act, 2026 (Act 1170), has been passed by Parliament, assented to by the President, and gazetted. However, the new Council for Legal Education and Training (CLET), established under the Act, is yet to be constituted. This letter serves as a set of Interim Policy Directives covering some very urgent matters,” parts of the circular read.

    Why the temporary transition measures 

    Explaining the rationale behind the policy directives, Professor Atuguba noted, 

    “I am happy to note that the Policy Directives are substantially aligned with the recommendations made by the Conference of Law Deans at its emergency meeting on the impending reforms held on the 13th of May 2026”.

    The reforms come to remove the autonomy of the Ghana School of Law (Makola) and to expand access to professional training after the passage of the law that decentralizes professional legal training and allowing accredited universities to play a direct role in preparing students for legal practice.

    According to authorities approximately 5,000 to 8,000 graduates remain in the backlog despite completing undergraduate studies and have been left competing for limited places through the Independent Examinations Committee (IEC) admission process for years now. 

    The new legal education system 

    Under this new system, LLB graduates will do an extra academic year to prepare and sit for a specially designed Pre-Bar Course.

    The programme will cover key subjects required for legal practice, including Company Law, Commercial Law, Family Law, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Interpretation of Deeds and Statutes.

    A successful completion of the programme guarantees a certification that will grant one the mandate to proceed to the Law Practice Training (LPT) Programme and later sit for the  National Bar Examination and ultimately qualify for call to the Bar.

    Not only will institutions be able to train its students for the exams but also it can admit graduates from other institutions as well as backlog students who wish to enrol in the Pre-Bar programme.

    Where universities are unable to offer the transitional course, they may collaborate with the Ghana School of Law or transfer affected students to the institution.

    Students graduating this year 

    For students graduating this year, the route to becoming a lawyer will involve completing the one-year Pre-Bar programme before advancing to the practical Law Practice Training course at institutions accredited by the Council for Legal Education and Training (CLET), once the new body is formally constituted.

    The practical training component will cover Civil Procedure, Criminal Procedure, Law of Evidence, Conveyancing and Drafting, Advocacy and Legal Ethics, as well as Law Practice Management and Legal Accounting.

    The government has also directed universities to use the transition period to strengthen infrastructure, improve practical legal training capacity and review their curricula to align with the new legal education regime.

    Applications for accreditation to run the Law Practice Training programme are expected to begin in October this year, with authorities targeting full implementation of the decentralised legal education system by the 2027/2028 academic year.

  • Missing UCC student found dead on beach, missing body parts

    Missing UCC student found dead on beach, missing body parts

    A missing person notice of a 20-year-old student of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Innocentia Avinu, went viral a few days ago, and recent reports indicate that she has been found dead on a beach, with police launching investigations into the circumstances of her death.

    This comes after she went missing prompting concern among students and residents in the coastal area where she was found.

    Circumstances surrounding her death are yet to be established but reports indicated that some parts of her body were missing. 

    Police say they are treating the case as a serious incident and have begun efforts to establish what led to her death.

    The last time Miss Avinu, a Level 200 student, was seen was after she told her friends of a meeting with an acquaintance outside the university community.

    The discovery of her body has heightened anxiety among students of the University of Cape Coast, with calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to her death

  • Govt keeps cocoa prices unchanged despite fall in global market

    Govt keeps cocoa prices unchanged despite fall in global market

    Government in Feburary faced heavy backlash particularly from cocoa farmers and the Minority caucus in Parliament after it announced price cuts for light crop purchase price linked to global price fall.

    Consequently despite a recent decline in prices on the international market, the Government of Ghana, through the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), has announced that the producer price of cocoa will remain unchanged for the 2026 Light Crop Season as official purchasing date for the crop is slated for June 18.

    This was formally announced in a formal statement by COCOBOD’s Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Agronomy and Quality Control, Dr. Francis Baah, the Board said the producer price for Grade I and II cocoa beans will be pegged at GH¢41,241.76 per load of 30 kilograms and GH¢2,587.00 per bag of 64 kilograms gross.

    The producer price per tonne, equivalent to 16 bags, will also remain unchanged at GH¢41,392.00.

    COCOBOD explained that this move is aimed at easing the impact of the falling cocoa price on the inyternational market and to safeguard their incomes ahead of the new light crop season.

    “The decision underscores the government’s commitment to protecting the incomes and livelihoods of cocoa farmers, even as international cocoa prices experience a downward trend,” the statement said.

    The Board noted that maintaining the current producer price is expected to provide stability and certainty for cocoa farmers as they prepare for the season.

    COCOBOD further indicated that the decision has been communicated to key stakeholders across the cocoa value chain, including Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), management of the Board, relevant government ministries and other industry players to ensure a smooth start to cocoa purchases nationwide.

    The announcement is likely to be welcomed by cocoa farmers, many of whom have expressed concerns about the impact of fluctuations in global cocoa prices on their earnings and livelihoods.

    Cocoa farmers reaction to price cuts in February

    Aggrieved cocoa farmers picketed at the headquarters of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) in Accra, on Friday, February 20, over a slash in producer prices and delayed payments, which they say have placed them in economic and financial distress.

    With placards bearing inscriptions of government betrayal and chanting slogans, they called on authorities and all stakeholders to protect their livelihoods.

    Some of the inscriptions read: “We worked, you lied,” “Government celebrates, but our families mourn,” and “We can’t pay our kids’ school fees,” among others.

    The distressed farmers expressed deep concerns through their chants and placards, stating that despite their significant contribution to the economy, their income has been eroded. They warned that unless urgent measures are taken, they may lose their livelihoods, a situation likely to push many farmers away from cocoa farming and potentially affect future production levels which is likely to affect the economy.

    Govt settles cocoa farmers

    In early March, this year the government disbursed an additional GH¢4.2 billion to the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) to be passed on to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) for onward payment to cocoa farmers who had been owed since November last year.

    The move came at a time when some cocoa farmers continued to express discontent over the producer price cuts announced in mid-February.

    Speaking in an interview with Citi Business News, the Head of Public Affairs at COCOBOD, Jerome Sam, highlighted his outfit’s commitment to clearing all outstanding debt before the end of the 2025/2026 cocoa season, which was expected to end around August.

    “We hoped to complete all payments before the close of the season, which was expected to end around August or September,” he stated.

    He further noted that the GH¢4.2 billion had been released by COCOBOD the previous week to the Licensed Buying Companies to facilitate payments to farmers.

    He explained that while some farmers had already received payment due to existing financing arrangements between COCOBOD and the LBCs, others were still owed.

    Jerome Sam added that COCOBOD remained focused on improving liquidity within the cocoa purchasing system to ensure prompt payments and sustain production across cocoa-growing areas.

    “Some of the payments were recent, while others were older. Since 2023, when challenges were experienced with the syndicated loan, Licensed Buying Companies sometimes stepped in to pre-finance cocoa purchases. COCOBOD later reimbursed them for those purchases.

    “That is why some farmers were not owed by the LBCs, while others still had outstanding payments. As COCOBOD, we worked tirelessly to ensure that every cedi owed to the Licensed Buying Companies was paid so they could also settle outstanding debts with farmers,” he explained.

  • “Lame statement” – Sports Minister calls out FIFA over Partey’s Canada visa denial remarks

    “Lame statement” – Sports Minister calls out FIFA over Partey’s Canada visa denial remarks

    Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has called out the World football governing body, FIFA, concerning its posture on Canada’s denial of Black Stars midfielder, Thomas Partey, to participate in Ghana’s World Cup opener.

    Ghana is set to play Panama on June 17, and despite being selected as part of the main squad, Partey has been denied entry into the host country.

    While Canada has defended its actions, Kofi Adams has slammed FIFA for its inability to protect players competing at the tournament.

    Earlier, in response to Canada’s denial, FIFA said, “FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas. As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country”

    “FIFA can confirm that player Thomas Partey will be unable to travel from Ghana’s Team Base Camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, 17 June, as his visa application has been refused by the Canadian government”, FIFA noted.

    “And that is why I am equally very much disappointed in the behaviour of FIFA, the world governing football body, in handling situations that have arisen as part of this FIFA World Cup 2026. “I think they have poorly handled a lot of things, and the earlier they sit up, the better,” Adams said.

    The minister argued that FIFA should have done more to prevent a situation in which a key player is unable to represent his country after being selected for the tournament.

    “FIFA cannot say that it cannot interfere with the internal affairs of the host countries as to whether they admit a person into their country or not. This should not have been the position, especially for a player.”

    He added that the issue extended beyond immigration policy because it directly affected the sporting integrity of the competition.

    “For you to just say that they can choose based on their national laws to deny a player, not a fan, but a player, a key player for that matter, who finds himself as being selected in the first team, and for FIFA to issue such a lame statement is so unfortunate.”

    Adams also argued that countries awarded major sporting events are normally required to guarantee entry for participating athletes and officials.

    “There are many clauses that they sign on to. Amongst them are unfettered rights to clubs that may be participating if it’s a club competition or nations that will be participating, and their athletes would have to be given visas.”

    Citing the Somalian referee’s case, who was denied entry into the US despite being appointed by FIFA itself to officiate FIFA matches, the minister said the Partey case was not an isolated incident.

    “We saw a referee that FIFA itself has appointed and has been denied entry. And now we’ve seen athletes or players who have been searched on their bodies with all kinds of sniffing dogs.”

    He also made reference to the US, which granted entry to Partey, who applied while in the UK  despite his trial in the latter country. 

    “Thomas has been issued a visa to America recently. He applied in the United Kingdom and was issued a visa to enter the United States. That is why he’s in America currently.”

    While acknowledging that Canada has the sovereign right to determine who enters its territory, Adams urged the authorities to reconsider the decision.

    “I think the higher authority has the opportunity to review this decision, and they must do so.”

    Although he will miss Ghana’s opener against Panama in Toronto, the midfielder remains eligible for the Black Stars’ remaining group-stage matches against England and Croatia in the United States.

    About Partey’s sexual assault case

    The Ghanaian international’s legal woes began just four days after he departed from Arsenal. He is currently facing six serious criminal charges in the UK. The charges were formally presented at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5. These charges have been levelled against him by three different women.

    In one of the charges, Complainant 1 claims that, between April and May 2021, Partey penetrated her anally during what began as consensual vaginal intercourse, without her consent. She further claims that between April and June 2021, Partey engaged her in anal sex on at least four separate occasions without her consent.

    Complainant 2 also alleges that in December 2021, after she refused to engage in sexual activity, Partey raped her vaginally. She also claims that in February 2022, he penetrated her anally after she explicitly declined anal sex. A third allegation from Complainant 2 states that during a trip to Marbella, Spain, in June 2022, Partey raped her vaginally.

    Complainant 3 also claims that in February 2022, Partey lay on top of her, attempted to kiss her, and touched her over her clothes without her consent.

    However, the player has denied all the allegations levelled against him. His lawyer has denied the charges of rape and sexual assault against her client.

    The statement issued by Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, noted:“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”

    The lawyer noted that as legal proceedings are ongoing, her client will not make any further comment on the matter. Under UK law, rape and sexual assault are prosecuted under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, which sets out clear definitions and penalties for these crimes. Rape is defined as intentional penile penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth of another person without their consent and without a reasonable belief that they consent.

    Sexual assault involves intentionally touching another person sexually without their consent.

    Police said the investigation was opened in February 2022 when it first received a report of rape.

    In the case of Thomas Partey, if he is found guilty of the multiple counts of rape and sexual assault, especially involving multiple complainants and repeated offences, he could face a lengthy custodial sentence, potentially 15–25 years or more, depending on the court’s assessment of harm and culpability.

    However, as several clubs would have cut ties with Thomas Partey, either permanently or temporarily, after having been entangled in such a case, Villareal has taken a different turn by allowing him to play and train, citing that they respect the player’s insistence on his innocence.

    He joined the La Liga side on Thursday, August 7, as a free agent after finalising the move from Arsenal on June 30, after his contract expired.

    His move to the Yellow Submarine side marks his return to Spain after leaving Atletico Madrid in 2020.

    Thomas Partey, a key figure for the Black Stars, is expected to feature prominently after being named in the squad for the competition.

    Under his current bail conditions, he is required to inform authorities of any international travel, while US entry rules also require full disclosure of legal status.

  • Govt mulls reducing admissions to health training institutions to tackle unemployment in sector

    Govt mulls reducing admissions to health training institutions to tackle unemployment in sector


    Government is currently considering a policy response about admissions and recruitment into the country’s health care institutions, the Health Minister has said.

    According to statistics available, every year Ghana admits about 34,000–35,000 students into nursing and health training institutions, but the government only recruits around 14,000–16,000 health workers annually, leaving a backlog of ~18,000–20,000 graduates annually who remain unemployed or underemployed.

    Consequently, Mintah Akandoh has revealed that, to tackle this, admissions into health institutions may be reduced to help decrease the number of graduates produced annually, which far exceeds the needs of health facilities.

    “We must start analysing our admissions into nursing training colleges. What’s the point of training more if we cannot recruit them? On average, they [nursing training colleges] admit 34,000 to 35,000 students every year. However, the absorption rate is not proportional to the admissions. So, the government is reviewing that, ” he said at the Volta Regional launch of the Free Primary Healthcare Policy in Ho.

    He believes that, given the current state of healthcare facilities, funds saved from this proposed reduction in admissions to health institutions may be used to purchase equipment to strengthen healthcare delivery across the country.

    “But it’ s up to all of us. Whether to continue on this path or to drop that quota and invest in equipment. Then we can include more people. This is something for all of us to consider, ” Mr Akandoh explained.

    The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, called for collective efforts to ensure the policy’s success.

    “Through the implementation of the primary healthcare strategy, we aim to improve health outcomes, reduce inequalities in access to healthcare services, and move steadily towards achieving universal health coverage.

    “The successful implementation of primary healthcare requires a whole- of- society approach. It calls for shared responsibility, strong partnerships, and active community involvement. Together, we can build a healthier Volta region, where every citizen has the opportunity to lead a productive and fulfilling life,” he said.

    The Free Primary Healthcare Policy currently covers services at the CHPS Compounds and Health Centres, which are being piloted in 150 districts, with 5 from the Volta Region.

    During the launch, the health minister handed over medical equipment, tricycles, and bicycles for distribution among the five beneficiary districts in the Volta Region.

    Govt announces recruitment of about 8,000 health workers

    The Ministry of Health has announced that the government will recruit about 16,000 health workers this year, citing that clearance has been secured for about half the intended number while efforts are underway for the remainder.

    In compliance with public financial management laws and administrative practices designed to keep government spending within approved limits, the Finance Ministry is expected to give approval for the release of funds for recruitment and payment of salaries.

    “The Ministry of Health wishes to inform the public that, as part of the government’s deliberate effort to absorb trained health professionals, plans are underway to recruit between 16,000 health workers this year. Financial clearance has been secured for about 8,000 so far, with efforts ongoing to obtain the remainder,” the Ministry noted in a formal statement shared on Wednesday, April 29.

    According to the Ministry, the government will not recruit any health worker without a budgetary provision for their salaries.

    “No health worker will be engaged without financial provision”, it continued.

    Also, it announced the payment of two months’ arrears with a pledge to pay the next arrears covering three months, i.e., May to July 2026.

    The health authority expressed appreciation to affected nurses, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce and healthcare delivery nationwide.

    “The Ministry of Health is pleased to announce that, in line with its commitment, two-month arrears for newly recruited nurses have been duly paid. The Ministry further wishes to assure all affected personnel that the next payment will be made in 3 monthly instalments, from May to July 2026, as announced earlier.

    “The Ministry appreciates the patience and cooperation of all stakeholders and remains committed to strengthening the health workforce for improved service delivery,” parts of the statement read.

    It continued that “Individuals experiencing any form of challenges or requiring clarification are advised to contact the Human Resource for Health Development Directorate of the Ministry of Health for assistance”.

    “ The Ministry of Health wishes to inform the public that, as part of the government’s deliberate effort to absorb trained health professionals, plans are underway to recruit between 16,000 health workers this year. Financial clearance has been secured for about 8,000 so far, with efforts ongoing to obtain the remainder,” the Ministry continued.

    To avoid a recurrence of recruiting nurses and later owing them salaries, the Ministry said it will not employ any health worker without prior budget approval, adding that recruitment will be done in phases.

    “ No health worker will be engaged without financial provision. These clearances have been distributed across the various health cadres to facilitate the gradual absorption of personnel into the health system,” it noted.

  • Greater Accra, Volta and Northern regions to experience heavy rains, possible flooding – GMet

    Greater Accra, Volta and Northern regions to experience heavy rains, possible flooding – GMet

    Parts of Western, Central, Greater Accra and Volta regions are likely to experience moderate to heavy downpour today, Saturday, June 13, between 0745 UTC and 1000 UTC according to the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet).

    The national weather agency announced this in a public notice, warning the public about an imminent thunderstorm, strong winds and possible localised flooding in parts of the country.

    The rain clouds predicted earlier have now formed over some coastal and inland parts of the country. These clouds are expected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall in those areas, and some places may also experience thunderstorms.

    Consequently, it warned the affected areas to “Be Prepared” and “Be Aware,” signalling the possibility of weather-related disruptions such as flooding.

    Also, the northern sector, including the  Upper East, North East, Northern, Upper West and Savannah, will also experience similar downpours with associated thunderstorms between 0745 UTC and 1400 UTC.

    Some parts of the Upper West and Savannah regions are projected to face elevated weather risks from 0945 UTC to 1500 UTC, with GMet assigning a higher alert category that calls for residents and authorities to take precautionary measures.

    GMet also indicated that the rainstorms have the potency to collapse weak structures, uproot trees and affect transportation in the long run.

    GMet further cautioned that localised flooding is likely in low-lying and flood-prone communities, particularly in areas that receive intense rainfall over a short period.

    Residents in affected regions have been advised to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours, secure loose objects and stay away from floodwaters and storm drains.

  • World Cup: Govt releases GHS 76 million for Black Stars

    World Cup: Govt releases GHS 76 million for Black Stars

    The government has announced the disbursement of a total of GH₵76.5 million for the Black Stars’ participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    This was announced by the Finance Ministry in a formal press release on Friday, June 12. The Ministry indicated that the funds were released in two tranches: GH₵58.9 million, the cedi equivalent of US$5 million, for preparations and group stage participation, and GH₵17.5 million, the cedi equivalent of US$1.49 million, to settle outstanding qualification bonuses.

    The bonus payment forms part of a performance-based agreement reached with the team during the qualifying series, under which the players received 50 per cent of their bonus during the qualifiers, with the remaining 50 per cent contingent on the team’s successful qualification for the World Cup.

    The statement also indicated the government’s commitment to ensuring that the national team is well resourced to enable them to deliver their best in the global football tournament, FIFA World Cup co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the USA.

    “The government remains committed to providing the necessary resources to ensure the Black Stars compete at the highest level,” the statement added while calling on Ghanaians to support the team.

    “We call on all Ghanaians to rally behind the team as they represent the country on the global stage.”

    The Black Stars secured their place at the global showpiece after topping Group I of the African qualifiers, finishing the campaign with 25 points from 10 matches. They have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.

    About the player’s appearance fee

    Ghana’s Sports Minister confirmed that the Black Stars will receive a $100,000 appearance fee for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    He disclosed this during a live TV3 Hot Issues interview on Sunday, May 31. According to him, there were suggestions of a possible increase linked to the appreciation of the cedi against the dollar.

    “The appearance fee for the Black Stars players has been pegged at $100,000 per player.Some said that because the cedi had become stronger, we should increase it, but we said no. Because if the cedi had become weaker, would you have said that we should reduce the dollar (equivalent) so it gives you the same cedi amount? You would not say so.”

    The practice of paying appearance fees is as old as Ghana’s participation in the World Cup, with Ghana pegging the appearance fee at $100,000, in the last sixteen years

    Since 2010, however, the appearance fees have been pegged at $100,000, and per the Minister’s comments, the current group will also benefit.

    Ghana to broadcast World Cup live on GBC

    Ghana has, for the first time in over a decade, secured live broadcast rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following successful government-backed arrangements and a nationwide fundraising initiative.

    The last time Ghana secured such broadcast rights was in 2014, with GBC leading coverage when Brazil hosted the tournament.

    This was confirmed by the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, while speaking during the presentation of a GH¢5 million donation from GCB Bank to the Black Stars support campaign.

    According to the Buem MP, the broadcast rights cover a few selected media platforms nationwide.

    “Through the support of government and fundraising efforts, we have been able to secure broadcast rights to telecast the World Cup matches live on some media stations,” he said.

    Times Ghana has secured broadcast rights in World Cup history

    In 2010, when the 2010 FIFA World Cup was hosted in South Africa, the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, together with private partners, secured the rights and broadcast the matches live. This was historic because Ghana reached the quarterfinals, its best performance to date.

    By 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Ghana again secured broadcast rights, with GBC leading nationwide coverage.

    In 2018, despite Ghana not qualifying for the tournament in Russia, broadcast rights were limited, and only selected pay-TV platforms carried the matches.

    For the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Ghana qualified, but the country did not secure full nationwide broadcast rights. Coverage was mainly available through pay-TV providers such as SuperSport and DStv, leaving many fans without free access.

  • Govt to settle 2023, 2024 arrears – Harunna Iddrisu to  Free SHS suppliers

    Govt to settle 2023, 2024 arrears – Harunna Iddrisu to  Free SHS suppliers

    The government on Thursday, June 11, promised to settle arrears of supplies made to public Senior High Schools (SHS) by Free Senior High suppliers from 2023 within one week.

    “I give you my word and assurance that within a week we should be able to honour it,” he said.

    However, he indicated that the payment will cover 2023 and 2024.

    “The outstanding obligations would cover supplies delivered in both 2023 and 2024,” the Education Minister indicated.

    He made this known during a meeting with the aggrieved suppliers who embarked on a picketing exercise at the Ministry of Education on Thursday, June 11, despite earlier engagements with officials of the Free SHS Secretariat over unpaid arrears. 

    NAIS demands

    According to NAIS, it expects arrears of approximately GH¢50 million for goods supplied to public senior high schools since 2023, including uniforms, house dresses, and other essential items.

    Speaking to the protesting suppliers, Mr Iddrisu indicated that their discontent was acceptable and justified, citing delays in government payments for services already rendered.

    “You are free to lament that you are unhappy about the government not honouring its obligations,” he said.

    He proposed that the claims be subjected to audit and validation to confirm invoices and delivery records before payments are made.

    He further directed that representatives of the suppliers engage with senior officials at the Ministry, including the Chief Director and Director of Finance, to facilitate the verification process.

    The minister proposed conducting a verification exercise to check the suppliers’ claims. This would involve reviewing invoices and delivery records to ensure that the goods or services were actually provided before any payments are made.

    The association maintains that the arrears have affected their operations and is calling for immediate settlement of all outstanding debts despite ongoing government engagements.

    Senior high schools (SHS) across the country faced the threat of closure due to delays in the release of funds for the procurement of food, particularly perishable items, needed to sustain feeding operations under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.

    The situation emerged after a meeting between the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) and the Minister for Education ended without an agreement on measures to address a growing food-supply crisis in schools.

    The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including CHASS, the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), to discuss challenges associated with the procurement of perishable food items such as vegetables, meat and eggs, which had become increasingly difficult to source because of funding delays.

    As part of efforts to resolve the challenge, the minister proposed that GETFund maintain an arrangement that allowed CHASS to independently procure perishable items. However, the parties failed to reach a consensus on the proposal.

    The impasse followed a formal petition submitted by CHASS and the Conference of Principals of Technical Institutions (COPTI), which raised concerns about dwindling food supplies from the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the impact of inflation on already constrained school budgets.

    CHASS subsequently warned that the failure to provide immediate funding for the procurement of essential food items could force schools to send students home, potentially disrupting the academic calendar and preparations for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

    Reports at the time indicated that some headteachers had resorted to using personal funds and obtaining supplies on credit from local vendors to ensure that students continued to receive meals.

    The stalemate heightened concerns about the sustainability of the feeding component of the Free SHS programme, which served more than 1.2 million students nationwide, while stakeholders indicated they would continue discussions in search of a lasting solution to the crisis.

  • AI is reshaping business and making human resource management more strategic than ever

    AI is reshaping business and making human resource management more strategic than ever

    Artificial intelligence is changing the business landscape at speed. From hiring and skills development to decision-making and productivity, organisations are being forced to rethink how work is structured, how talent is developed, and how leadership is exercised.

    From my perspective as an HR leader, this moment makes one thing clear: managing Human Resources is no longer a support function operating at the margins of strategy. It has become central to how organisations build capability, manage change, strengthen leadership, and remain competitive.

    For business leaders, that means preparing people for change, building future-ready skills, and ensuring that innovation does not outrun trust. The future of work will not be determined by technology alone, but by how effectively organisations align technology with people.

    Christabel Othelia Amegayibor, Group HR TG Holdings

    The scale of the challenge is significant. The World Economic Forum reports that 86% of employers expect AI and information-processing technologies to transform their business by 2030, while 39% of workers’ core skills are expected to change. That is not simply a technology agenda; it is a workforce and leadership agenda, and HR must be at the centre of it.

    There is no doubt that AI can make HR more efficient and more analytical. It can improve recruitment, support learning, and generate insights that help leaders respond earlier to workforce risks. But efficiency alone is not enough.

    What technology cannot replace is judgement, empathy, ethical decision-making, and the ability to lead people through uncertainty. These are not soft qualities; they are commercial necessities in organisations that want to retain trust, strengthen culture, and sustain performance.

    The organisations most likely to thrive will not simply be those with the most advanced tools. They will be those that combine innovation with human-centred leadership and modernise without losing sight of the people who drive value creation.

    The real test for HRM, therefore, is not whether it adopts AI, but whether it uses it in ways that strengthen leadership, develop people, and protect trust.

    In the age of AI, HRM is no longer simply a people function. It is a strategic lever for resilience, competitiveness, and long-term business performance.

    About the Author


    Christabel Othelia Amegayibor is Group Human Resource Director at TG Holdings and has more than 19 years of experience in strategic HR management, organisational transformation, and leadership development.


    She holds an MBA in Human Resource Management and the SHRM-SCP credential and has served in senior HR leadership roles across multiple sectors, including aviation, manufacturing, Hospitality, Technology, Logistics, Construction, Procurement, among others.

    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

  • Ghana High Commission in Canada receives over 50,000 World Cup ticket requests

    Ghana High Commission in Canada receives over 50,000 World Cup ticket requests

    Over 50,000 Ghanaians in Canada have submitted requests for tickets for the upcoming FIFA World Cup which began yesterday.

    Disclosed by the Ghana High Commission in Canada in a public notice dated June 11, it indicated that his outfit is currently compiling the names to send to Ghana’s Ministry of Sports and Recreation in the order they were submitted for the necessary action adding that it had not received any World Cup tickets from the Ministry yet.

    “Following the public notice issued on 8th June 2026, the High Commission so far has received more than 50,000 names, with emails which are being compiled and forwarded in order of the time of receipt, to the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, Ghana, for their necessary action,” the notice stated.

    It added that, “The Ghanaian public in Canada should take note that the High Commission has not received any World Cup Tickets. If the Mission receives any tickets from the Ministry, and modalities for distribution, the community will be informed”.

    The High Commission also expressed appreciation to Ghanaians in Canada for their overwhelming support for the Black Stars ahead of the global football tournament.

    “We thank you for your great support for the Black Stars!With renewed assurances.” the notice added.

    The statement was signed by Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada, H.E. Prof. Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh.

    Free tickets for disporans

    Following President Mahama’s announcement that the government will not sponsor fans’ travel to the World Cup but will instead secure tickets for interested supporters in the diaspora to cheer on and boost the morale of the Black Stars, the decision was welcomed by many Ghanaians abroad.

    The announcement generated significant interest among members of the diaspora, particularly those in the United States, with many expressing a desire to attend the tournament using the tickets.

    However, addressing the issue of ticket availability, Ghana’s Embassy in Washington, D.C., announced in a statement on Thursday, June 11, that it has not yet received the tickets allocated for Ghanaian supporters in the United States for the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches.

    The embassy stated that once the tickets and the modalities for their distribution are received, the information will be communicated to the diaspora community and the tickets distributed fairly, as it awaits how they should be shared.

    “The Embassy of Ghana in Washington D.C. wishes to inform the Ghanaian diaspora in the United States that the Mission is yet to receive tickets for the World Cup games,” the notice stated.

    The embassy assured Ghanaians that information regarding ticket allocation and distribution procedures would be communicated once the tickets are received.

    “As soon as the mission receives the allocated tickets and modalities on how to distribute them, it will be communicated to the diaspora community accordingly,” the statement added.

    About FIFA ticketing

    Last year, a global statement shared by FIFA suggests that half a million requests for tickets have been made from across the world for tickets for the upcoming World Cup in June.

    The statement shared on the football governing body on Wednesday, January 14, mentioned that, “more than half a billion ticket requests submitted during the Random Selection Draw ticket sales phase, which ran from Thursday, 11 December 2025 to Tuesday, 13 January 2026.

    FIFA said it received approximately 15 million ticket requests daily over the about a month application window, marking a new record in the history of football.

    “With each application validated by unique credit card data, fans placed an average of 15 million ticket requests per day over the 33-day application window, setting a new benchmark for demand in the history of world sport”, parts of the statement said.

    Out of the over 500 million ticket requests, the majority came from Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Colombia, aside from the host countries; USA, Mexico and Canada.

  • I don’t know about it – Kofi Adams on Partey’s alleged visa denial to Canada

    I don’t know about it – Kofi Adams on Partey’s alleged visa denial to Canada

    Ghana’s Sports Minister, Kofi Adams, has addressed rumours about Thomas Partey’s visa to Canada.

    This comes after it emerged that the Ghanaian and Villareal FC midfielder had been refused entry into Canada for the World Cup in North America due to his ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom.

    “I am not aware that he has been denied a visa. I knew his previous visa to the United States had some challenges, but he has since been issued a visa to be able to enter the United States, and I was unaware that he had been denied a visa to Canada. No, not that I’m aware,” Mr Adams said.

    Thomas Partey is currently facing multiple sexual offence charges in the UK. He has pleaded not guilty and is expected to stand trial at Southwark Crown Court.

    According to the Minister, cases of such importance, including visa denial of a selected national player, would have been communicated to his office; however, no such news has reached him.

    “I don’t think that if any such thing had happened, they would have communicated to me as Minister for Sports and Recreation. I haven’t received any such communication. I’ve been in touch with the FA and the management who are currently in the United States,” he added.

    He also revealed that discussions were ongoing regarding visa arrangements for members of the national team’s technical entourage, including coach Carlos Queiroz’s wife, who is an Iranian national.

    “We are going through some processes; they are still considering a decision on her visa, a full decision has not been made yet, so we have been having conversations on that. I’ve not heard anything in relation to Thomas,” he stated.

    Reports in England indicate that the FA is considering whether England players should take part in the customary pre-match handshake with Thomas Partey if England and Ghana meet later in the tournament.

    About Partey’s sexual assault case

    The Ghanaian international’s legal woes began just four days after he departed from Arsenal. He is currently facing six serious criminal charges in the UK. The charges were formally presented at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5. These charges have been levelled against him by three different women.

    In one of the charges, Complainant 1 claims that, between April and May 2021, Partey penetrated her anally during what began as consensual vaginal intercourse, without her consent. She further claims that between April and June 2021, Partey engaged her in anal sex on at least four separate occasions without her consent.

    Complainant 2 also alleges that in December 2021, after she refused to engage in sexual activity, Partey raped her vaginally. She also claims that in February 2022, he penetrated her anally after she explicitly declined anal sex. A third allegation from Complainant 2 states that during a trip to Marbella, Spain, in June 2022, Partey raped her vaginally.

    Complainant 3 also claims that in February 2022, Partey lay on top of her, attempted to kiss her, and touched her over her clothes without her consent.

    However, the player has denied all the allegations levelled against him. His lawyer has denied the charges of rape and sexual assault against her client.

    The statement issued by Partey’s lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, noted:“Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him. He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation. He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.”

    The lawyer noted that as legal proceedings are ongoing, her client will not make any further comment on the matter. Under UK law, rape and sexual assault are prosecuted under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, which sets out clear definitions and penalties for these crimes. Rape is defined as intentional penile penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth of another person without their consent and without a reasonable belief that they consent.

    Sexual assault involves intentionally touching another person sexually without their consent.

    Police said the investigation was opened in February 2022 when it first received a report of rape.

    In the case of Thomas Partey, if he is found guilty of the multiple counts of rape and sexual assault, especially involving multiple complainants and repeated offences, he could face a lengthy custodial sentence, potentially 15–25 years or more, depending on the court’s assessment of harm and culpability.

    However, as several clubs would have cut ties with Thomas Partey, either permanently or temporarily, after having been entangled in such a case, Villareal has taken a different turn by allowing him to play and train, citing that they respect the player’s insistence on his innocence.

    He joined the La Liga side on Thursday, August 7, as a free agent after finalising the move from Arsenal on June 30, after his contract expired.

    His move to the Yellow Submarine side marks his return to Spain after leaving Atletico Madrid in 2020.

    Thomas Partey, a key figure for the Black Stars, is expected to feature prominently after being named in the squad for the competition.

    Under his current bail conditions, he is required to inform authorities of any international travel, while US entry rules also require full disclosure of legal status.

    Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia. Their campaign begins against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, followed by England on June 23, before concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27.

  • The Law 101 – Plea Deals: Justice made swifter and surer

    The Law 101 – Plea Deals: Justice made swifter and surer

    Criminal Jurisprudence in Ghana

    I have done a number of episodes on the subject on my weekly legal clinic, THE LAW on JoyNews, in the last five years. Plea bargaining is no alien transplant into Ghana’s justice system. Even under the Courts Act, 1993 (Act 459), judges routinely reviewed plea deals as regulated by Section 35 of that law, though the legal framework remained skeletal.

    Subsection (1) provides that “Where a person is charged with an offence before the High Court or a Regional Tribunal, the commission of which has caused economic loss, harm or damage to the State or any State agency, the accused may inform the prosecutor whether the accused admits the offence and is willing to offer compensation or make restitution and reparation for the loss, harm or damage caused.”

    Subsection (5) fettered judicial discretion in handing down custodial sentences in the following terms: “Where the Court considers the offer to be satisfactory, the Court shall accept a plea of guilty from the accused and convict the accused on his own plea, and in lieu of passing sentence on the accused, make an order for the accused to pay compensation or make restitution and reparation.”

    This shows that plea deals were not imported but have long existed in Ghanaian jurisprudence, albeit in a limited form. True statutory formalisation began incrementally. The Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959) was the first piece of legislation to explicitly mention plea bargaining, affirming its legitimacy in corruption prosecutions. However, it was the passage of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) (Amendment) Act, 2022 (Act 1079) that provided comprehensive procedural detail, codifying defendant rights, disclosure thresholds, victim consultation protocols, and rigorous judicial safeguards.

    Globally, negotiated justice is deeply entrenched. In the United States, plea bargains reportedly account for over 90% of all criminal convictions. Its mainstream utility is clear across all tiers of the legal system; even high‑profile corporate entities, such as the Donald Trump Organisation, have entered into plea deals in financial crime cases. This underscores that negotiated settlements are a vital tool of modern state prosecution, not a mechanism reserved exclusively for minor offences.

    What’s in it for the State or Victims?

    The statutory introduction of plea bargaining serves several vital institutional and social purposes. Primarily, it maximizes systemic efficiency. Because trials are inherently costly, labour‑intensive, and lengthy, plea deals preserve vital judicial time and taxpayer resources. They also provide prosecutorial certainty, securing definitive convictions while avoiding the inherent unpredictability, evidentiary technicalities, and risks of a prolonged trial.

    Furthermore, the process facilitates expedited restitution, allowing victims of crime to receive direct compensation or asset recovery much faster than they would following years of standard litigation. From a rehabilitative standpoint, it supports proportionality, giving accused persons an incentive to take immediate legal responsibility in exchange for reduced charges or sentences, balancing state deterrence with judicial fairness.

    Importantly, as also provided in the OSP Act, plea deals may not only assist the state to retrieve money that could otherwise be lost through a full trial that may lead to acquittal or only jail time, but they may also help prosecutors secure better evidence against syndicates or gangs, and even cooperation from witnesses who may have participated in the alleged crime. This strategic value is often overlooked in public debates. Imagine the recoveries the state would have made in the botched €2.4 million ambulance trial and the others terminated by withdrawal or nolle prosequi after seven or so years of investing state resources in prosecutions.

    The Procedure under Act 1079

    The 2022 Amendment ensures that the negotiation process follows a strictly regulated, transparent path that begins with initiation and notice under Section 162C. Negotiations can be formally proposed by either the prosecutor or the defence counsel, requiring a formal written notice to the court, which may grant an adjournment of up to thirty days to conclude terms.

    Before any agreement can be finalised, Section 162D mandates pre‑trial disclosures, meaning the prosecutor must serve the defence with all vital case documents, witness statements, and exculpatory evidence to ensure fair and transparent negotiations. This is accompanied by victim consultation under Section 162E, where the prosecutor must inform the victim or complainant and allow them to make formal representations; victims who object can file a written statement detailing their grounds directly for the court’s consideration.

    Finally, under Sections 162G and 162H, the signed agreement undergoes strict judicial oversight where the judge must examine the accused personally under oath to verify that they are of sound mind, acting voluntarily, and fully understand they are waiving their rights to a full trial and appeal.

    Public Misconceptions

    Critics frequently argue that plea bargaining emboldens wrongdoing or provides an escape hatch for corruption, particularly when the Attorney‑General considers a plea proposal in high‑profile matters. It has just emerged that an accused has approached the AG in the state’s case against Bernard Antwi‑Boasiako (alias Wontumi) and two others. This concerns the Ghana Export‑Import Bank (EXIM Bank) fraud case.

    The view that a plea deal does not serve justice is legally misplaced. As seen in the official court filings, the High Court has formally been notified of the commencement of plea negotiations under Section 162C(3) of Act 30. This process does not erase accountability. Instead, it offers a mechanism to guarantee a formal criminal conviction, immediate asset recovery, and state‑sanctioned deterrence without risking a total acquittal at trial on the counts of defrauding by false pretence, uttering a forged document, money laundering, and intentionally causing financial loss to a public body totalling GH₵30,000,000. To view the mechanism as inherently corrupt completely misunderstands its systemic design.

    Equally, plea bargaining is not an exclusive luxury for politically exposed persons. Act 1079 applies universally across the criminal justice spectrum. It explicitly excludes only the gravest public and violent offences, such as treason, murder, rape, genocide, and robbery. Ordinary theft, commercial fraud, assault, and juvenile offences are all fully eligible. The statutory tool is designed for institutional efficiency and victim restitution, not political favouritism.

    The poor man’s crime

    In fact, the 1993 Courts Act also provides for settlement or reconciliation in minor criminal cases. Section 73 directs courts with criminal jurisdiction to “promote reconciliation, encourage and facilitate a settlement in an amicable manner of any offence not amounting to felony and not aggravated in degree, on payment of compensation or on other terms approved by the court.”

    In practice, the court stays proceedings to allow negotiations, and if settlement is reached, it dismisses the case and discharges the accused. Crucially, the accused does not plead guilty and therefore does not carry the stigma of a conviction or the label of an ex‑convict. This reconciliation mechanism is designed to restore harmony and repair harm without branding offenders permanently, while the plea bargaining often involves a formal guilty plea and conviction, albeit with negotiated terms.

    Conclusion

    Plea bargaining is a legitimate, heavily codified, and globally accepted instrument of criminal justice. Ghana’s 2022 reforms brought structural clarity, victim inclusivity, and judicial transparency to a practice long recognised under the Courts Act and the OSP Act.

    Far from weakening the law, plea deals, when done sincerely and transparently in the public or victim interest, strengthen public accountability by making justice swifter, surer, and fundamentally more responsive to the needs of victims and the rule of law.

    Justice is not weakened by plea bargaining; it is made more effective.

    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

  • Expect payment in a week’s time – Edu Minister assures Free SHS suppliers

    Expect payment in a week’s time – Edu Minister assures Free SHS suppliers

    The government has pledged a week’s ultimatum to pay arrears for goods supplied to public senior high schools.

    This was announced by the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, who assured members of the National Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS) of the government’s resolve to settle outstanding payments owed under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.

    His comments come on the back of the Free SHS suppliers’ picketing exercise at the Ministry of Education on Thursday, June 11, despite earlier engagements with officials of the Free SHS Secretariat over unpaid arrears.

    While urging calm, the minister assured the group that the government would work to address the issue within a week.

    “I give you my word and assurance that within a week we should be able to honour it,” he said.

    NAIS demands

    According to NAIS, it expects arrears of approximately GH¢50 million for goods supplied to public senior high schools since 2023, including uniforms, house dresses, and other essential items.

    Speaking to the protesting suppliers, Mr Iddrisu indicated that their discontent was acceptable and justified, citing delays in government payments for services already rendered.

    “You are free to lament that you are unhappy about the government not honouring its obligations,” he said.

    He assured the suppliers that their claims would be reviewed and processed promptly, indicating that the government would prioritise settlement of the arrears; however, the Minister indicated that the payment would be to settle 2023 and 2024 arrears.

    He proposed that the claims be subjected to audit and validation to confirm invoices and delivery records before payments are made.

    He further directed that representatives of the suppliers engage with senior officials at the Ministry, including the Chief Director and Director of Finance, to facilitate the verification process.

     The minister proposed conducting a verification exercise to check the suppliers’ claims. This would involve reviewing invoices and delivery records to ensure that the goods or services were actually provided before any payments are made.

    The association maintains that the arrears have affected their operations and is calling for immediate settlement of all outstanding debts despite ongoing government engagements.

    Senior high schools (SHS) across the country faced the threat of closure due to delays in the release of funds for the procurement of food, particularly perishable items, needed to sustain feeding operations under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.

    The situation emerged after a meeting between the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) and the Minister for Education ended without an agreement on measures to address a growing food-supply crisis in schools.

    The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including CHASS, the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), to discuss challenges associated with the procurement of perishable food items such as vegetables, meat and eggs, which had become increasingly difficult to source because of funding delays.

    As part of efforts to resolve the challenge, the minister proposed that GETFund maintain an arrangement that allowed CHASS to independently procure perishable items. However, the parties failed to reach a consensus on the proposal.

    The impasse followed a formal petition submitted by CHASS and the Conference of Principals of Technical Institutions (COPTI), which raised concerns about dwindling food supplies from the National Food Buffer Stock Company and the impact of inflation on already constrained school budgets.

    CHASS subsequently warned that the failure to provide immediate funding for the procurement of essential food items could force schools to send students home, potentially disrupting the academic calendar and preparations for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

    Reports at the time indicated that some headteachers had resorted to using personal funds and obtaining supplies on credit from local vendors to ensure that students continued to receive meals.

    The stalemate heightened concerns about the sustainability of the feeding component of the Free SHS programme, which served more than 1.2 million students nationwide, while stakeholders indicated they would continue discussions in search of a lasting solution to the crisis.

  • DVLA: 4,896 applicants denied driver’s licences in 2025 after failing eye tests

    DVLA: 4,896 applicants denied driver’s licences in 2025 after failing eye tests

    Over 4,000 applicants were unable to secure driver’s licences this year after failing mandatory eye examinations conducted by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).

    This raises concerns about the role of poor eyesight in road crashes across Ghana.

    The Authority disclosed this in its 2025 nationwide eye-screening report released on Thursday, June 11. According to the DVLA, a total of 251,117 commercial and private drivers underwent compulsory eye screening across the country during the year.

    Out of this number, 218,471 applicants, representing about 87 percent, passed the eye test at their first attempt. However, 32,645 applicants initially failed the screening due to various eye conditions.

    Following further assessment and required interventions, 4,896 applicants were ultimately found not to meet the required visual standards and were therefore denied driver’s licences.

    The development forms part of the DVLA’s intensified efforts to address impaired vision, which is considered a significant but often overlooked factor in road traffic accidents.

    The screenings uncovered a range of vision-related conditions among drivers, including glaucoma, cataracts, refractive errors, and complications linked to hypertension.

    During an engagement with the media, the Director for Driver Training, Testing and Licensing at the DVLA, Kafui Semevo, said many drivers only became aware of their eye conditions during the screening process.

    He stressed that the strict enforcement of Regulation 29 of Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2180 was crucial to reducing preventable road crashes and improving road safety.

    Regulation 29 of Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2180 is the section of Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations that deals specifically with driver fitness and medical standards, including eyesight.

    “Drivers whose vision impairments could not be corrected had their licences revoked in line with the law, while those with treatable conditions had their licences suspended until they were medically cleared,” Semevo stated.

    He further disclosed that policy discussions were underway regarding persons identified as having “single vision,” a condition highlighted in a survey conducted by the University of Cape Coast (UCC).

    Under the proposed policy, drivers with certain visual limitations may still be allowed to operate private vehicles, but they would not be permitted to drive commercial transport.

    To determine how effective these changes are, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has partnered with the University of Cape Coast and the Ghana Optometric Association (GOA) to study the reforms and their influence on road safety outcomes.

    Meanwhile, Chief Superintendent of Police Dr. Remi Ninkpe, who coordinates the DVLA-GOA Eye Care Reforms Project, has advised drivers against self-treatment and the use of non-prescribed corrective lenses. He cautioned that such practices could worsen eye problems and increase the risk of road accidents.

    The eye screening exercise is part of wider efforts by the DVLA to ensure that all licensed drivers meet minimum medical and visual standards, as part of ongoing measures to reduce preventable crashes and improve safety on Ghana’s roads.

    Clone detection machines to tackle car theft

    DVLA revealed has intensified efforts to curb the importation of vehicles into Ghana through unapproved channels.

    As part of the drive, the Authority has introduced clone detection machines (OBD II Scanners) to significantly enhance vehicle verification and protect the integrity of Ghana’s registration system. This information was contained in a press statement issued by the Authority on Wednesday, May 13.

    According to the Authority, “These machines will help identify vehicles imported through unapproved channels that illegally clone the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINS) of legitimate vehicles awaiting registration – a practice that has, in some cases, caused genuine vehicle owners to be wrongly flagged as already registered”.

    It added that, “This deployment is a proactive measure to curb fraudulent registrations, improve vehicle security and reinforce the accuracy and credibility of the national vehicle register”.

    The DVLA further urged all stakeholders and the public to cooperate with its officers as the Authority continues to promote transparency, safety and security within Ghana’s vehicle registration regime.

    Meanwhile, the DVLA has begun the arrest and prosecution of individuals using fake, forged, or expired DV number plates and DP stickers.

    In a public notice issued on April 17, 2026, the authority warned that anyone found in possession of such illegal vehicle identification materials will face legal action in accordance with the law.

    The DVLA said the move forms part of intensified efforts to clamp down on non-compliance within the vehicle registration system. The action follows an earlier directive issued on March 19, 2026, which outlined plans to target the use of expired 2025 DV plates, forged 2026 DV plates, and expired DP stickers. Enforcement operations initially began on March 24, 2026.

    According to the authority, its compliance team, working in collaboration with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, has already carried out targeted operations across various locations. These operations have largely focused on removing non-compliant plates and stickers from vehicles.

    However, despite these interventions, the DVLA said some motorists continue to flout the regulations. The authority reiterated that, under Regulation 23(11) of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), it is unlawful to possess or use forged or fake trade licences, including DV and DP plates and stickers.

    “With effect from May 4, 2026, any individual found in violation will be arrested and prosecuted,” the DVLA said.

    The directive, the authority noted, is aimed at strengthening regulatory compliance, protecting the integrity of vehicle registration data, and enhancing public safety.

    The DVLA urged all vehicle users to comply fully with the regulations and support efforts to ensure a transparent, accountable, and efficient vehicle administration system.

  • 24-hour economy: Govt signs over $8bn bankable agreements – CEO

    24-hour economy: Govt signs over $8bn bankable agreements – CEO

    In the last three months, the government has signed bankable agreements worth over $8 billion, marking what officials describe as strong investor confidence in the government’s 24-Hour Economy agenda.

    This was revealed by the Chief Export Development Officer at the Ghana 24-Hour Economy Authority, Gabriel Opoku-Asare, during a roundtable discussion on the theme “Unlocking Africa’s Single Market: How Can Ghanaian Businesses Win Under AfCFTA?” on Channel One TV on Thursday, June 11.

    He explained that these agreements reflect the government’s drive to position private sector investment as the main driver of the 24-Hour Economy programme, rather than relying heavily on public funding. This approach, he noted, will ease the burden on public finances while accelerating industrial expansion and development along key economic corridors.

    “We are enabling private capital in the development of all the projects we are talking about and the economic corridors we are building. Once private capital comes in, our role is coordination and facilitation of investment, so it is not sitting on sovereign debt. That is very important to ensure sustainability in the long term,” he said.

    Mr. Opoku-Asare added that the Authority will no longer focus on funding projects with government money. Instead, it will focus on facilitating private sector investment and coordinating stakeholders to support project implementation.

    He noted that investors appear confident in the government’s 24-Hour Economy plan and are willing to commit significant capital to its projects.

    “I’ve spoken about, in the last 90 days, all the bankable agreements that we’ve signed already, which amount to over $8 billion,” he said.

    The 24-Hour Economy is one of the major flagship programmes of President John Mahama during his 2024 campaign. However, following his assumption of office, not much has been heard about the programme’s rollout, except in a few state-owned enterprises, such as the Ghana Publishing Company Limited (GPCL).

    Many have questioned the viability of the programme, raising concerns about its financial sustainability, while others have described it as unrealistic. However, the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare-Addo, has stated that the programme will be fully operational by the end of 2026.

    He made this known during an interview on Nhyira FM on Thursday, January 8, emphasising the government’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the policy.

    According to him, the rollout will be gradual rather than immediate, as the long-standing eight-hour workday system will take time to transition into a round-the-clock shift arrangement.

    “Changing the entire structure of an economy that has been in place for years from an 8-hour to a 24-hour system cannot happen in less than 12 months. It requires legislative measures and directives, and those processes are underway,” he stated.

    He continued, “Anyone being honest will see that progress is being made. Changing the structure of the economy is not a one-time event; it is a process that takes time to unfold. We are clearly on track, and by the end of this year, we expect to see significant progress in the implementation of the 24-hour economy.”

    About the 24-Hour Economy

    The government’s 24-Hour Economy policy, a key promise during President John Mahama’s 2024 campaign, was officially launched on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

    The policy aims to enhance economic productivity by encouraging businesses to operate continuously, thereby creating more jobs, boosting revenue generation, and improving service delivery.

    Sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, retail, healthcare, hospitality, and financial services are expected to benefit significantly from this model.

    Presenting the policy to the Speaker of Parliament, Kingsford Sumana Alban Bagbin, last year in July, Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy policy, Mr. Goosie Tanoh, said the initiative was intended to formally brief “the people’s representatives” on the government’s readiness to roll out the programme.

    He explained that the policy is structured around three main pillars: production transformation, supply chain and market efficiency, and human capital development. These are supported by eight sub-programmes.

    “Roll 24 – which is the agricultural component; Make 24 – the manufacturing component; Connect 24 – the supply chain component; Aspire 24 – the mindset change component, aimed at resetting the Ghanaian workforce and bureaucracy with a strong productivity culture,” he explained.

    According to him, the government also plans to integrate strong digital technology training into the TVET curriculum to equip young people with skills needed for employment opportunities.

  • Once ready, it will be shared – Ghana Embassy in Washington on free World Cup tickets for diasporans

    Once ready, it will be shared – Ghana Embassy in Washington on free World Cup tickets for diasporans

    Following President Mahama’s announcement that the government will not sponsor fans’ travel to the World Cup but will instead secure tickets for interested supporters in the diaspora to cheer on and boost the morale of the Black Stars, the decision was welcomed by many Ghanaians abroad.

    The announcement generated significant interest among members of the diaspora, particularly those in the United States, with many expressing a desire to attend the tournament using the tickets.

    However, addressing the issue of ticket availability, Ghana’s Embassy in Washington, D.C., announced in a statement on Thursday, June 11, that it has not yet received the tickets allocated for Ghanaian supporters in the United States for the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches.

    The embassy stated that once the tickets and the modalities for their distribution are received, the information will be communicated to the diaspora community and the tickets distributed fairly, as it awaits how they should be shared.

    “The Embassy of Ghana in Washington D.C. wishes to inform the Ghanaian diaspora in the United States that the Mission is yet to receive tickets for the World Cup games,” the notice stated.

    The embassy assured Ghanaians that information regarding ticket allocation and distribution procedures would be communicated once the tickets are received.

    “As soon as the mission receives the allocated tickets and modalities on how to distribute them, it will be communicated to the diaspora community accordingly,” the statement added.

    About FIFA ticketing 

    Last year, a global statement shared by FIFA suggests that half a million requests for tickets have been made from across the world for tickets for the upcoming World Cup in June.

    The statement shared on the football governing body on Wednesday, January 14, mentioned that, “more than half a billion ticket requests submitted during the Random Selection Draw ticket sales phase, which ran from Thursday, 11 December 2025 to Tuesday, 13 January 2026.

    FIFA said it received approximately 15 million ticket requests daily over the about a month application window, marking a new record in the history of football.

    “With each application validated by unique credit card data, fans placed an average of 15 million ticket requests per day over the 33-day application window, setting a new benchmark for demand in the history of world sport”, parts of the statement said.

    Out of the over 500 million ticket requests, the majority came from Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Colombia, aside from the host countries; USA, Mexico and Canada.

    In November 2024,  the White House announced that fans set to travel for the tournament to the USA will be given the FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System (Pass), given that most of the matches will be played there.

    The FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) is a special visa‑interview scheduling program created by the U.S. government and FIFA for the 2026 World Cup. It gives ticket holders priority access to U.S. visa appointments, ensuring fans can travel to matches in North America despite existing visa backlogs.

    Speaking during a joint press briefing with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the White House in Washington, D.C., on 17 November, President Donald Trump mentioned that “I’ve directed my administration to do everything within their power to make the 2026 World Cup an unprecedented success.”

    Detailing how the ‘World’ will gain access into the US, the Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that, ticket-holders for the tournament, set for next June and July in the US, Canada and Mexico, will not be automatically granted a tourist visa.

    But foreign nationals with tickets to World Cup football matches could get an interview at an embassy or consulate within six to eight weeks of applying, Rubio said.

    “Your ticket is not a visa; it doesn’t guarantee admission to the US. We’re going to do the same vetting as anybody else would get. The only difference here is we’re moving them up in the queue,” the Secretary noted.

    At the same press briefing, FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed that about 10 million people could come to the US to watch World Cup matches.

    “With this FIFA Pass, we can make sure that those who buy a ticket, who are legitimate football fans or soccer fans, can come and attend the World Cup in the best conditions, starting from getting their visa,” he said.

  • We are ready, not nervous _ Ati-Zigi tells critics ahead of World Cup clash

    We are ready, not nervous _ Ati-Zigi tells critics ahead of World Cup clash


    The Ghana Black Stars are set to play their World Cup opener on June 17th against Panama on Tuesday, June 17  at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada.

    After the team’s inconsistencies in their warm-up games, many speculated a possible nervousness on the part of their part; however, one of the team’s goalkeepers, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, has ruled it out, expressing that they are ready and poised for the game.

    “Nervous? I don’t think that’s the word because I feel there’s good team spirit. This shows that everyone is ready and everyone is looking forward to it,” the St. Gallen goalkeeper said, according to the Ghana FA Media.


    Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has dismissed suggestions that the team are feeling nervous ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, insisting the squad is united and fully focused on the task ahead.

    The squad this time around seeks to improve on disappointing group-stage exits in both Brazil 2014 and Qatar 2022.

    Ati-Zigi, who is set for his second World Cup appearance, said the atmosphere in camp has been positive and players are embracing the occasion rather than succumbing to pressure.

    “As I said, it’s a dream to be here, so everyone is ready to live it,” he added. 

    After facing Panama, the four-time African champions will meet England at Gillette Stadium on June 23 before wrapping up their group stage campaign against Croatia on June 27.

    FIFA designated Bryant University in Boston as Ghana’s official training base for the 2026 FIFA World Cup competition.

    However, after just two training sessions at the facility, the team expressed concerns about safety and security following visits by the public.

    Ghana’s head coach, Carlos Queiroz, indicated that public access to the facility compromises the team’s privacy and security as Ghana fine-tunes its preparations for the global showpiece.

    Consequently, the Black Stars technical team, including John Painstil, protocol officer Alex Asante, and assistant coach Desmond Ofei, were instructed to find a new facility for the Black Stars.

    After reviewing available options, the Black Stars have now moved their training to a facility in Virginia.

    While the team has found a more convenient space that suits their preference, the Ghana Football Authority (GFA) says the new arrangement comes at an extra cost.

    The entire Ghana delegation, including players and officials, has already settled into the new training camp as the team continues preparations for its World Cup campaign.

    The Black Stars are expected to maintain an intensive training schedule ahead of their Group L opener against Panama on June 17.

    Ghana was anticipating another friendly ahead of their World Cup opener against Panama on June 17; however, following unsuccessful negotiations with the targeted teams, including Jamaica and Honduras, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed that there will be no additional friendly matches for the Black Stars.

    Speaking during a media interview, the GFA Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, said his outfit has not scheduled an alternative game following the failed negotiations with the two teams.

    “At this point, it is a big no [to playing another friendly game]. We don’t have any game on paper at this point. It doesn’t look likely, but I am not in the position to rule out anything yet.”

    He explained that any late decision would depend on the technical team’s assessment of the squad’s needs, but indicated that only a low- or mid-intensity match would be considered at this stage.

    “If it is that we wake up tomorrow and he wants to play, maybe a mid- to low-intensity game, I don’t think he will accept a high-intensity game at this point. But if it is that we wake up tomorrow and he wants to play a mid- to low-intensity game, we will make it public. At this point, there is nothing of the sort on paper,” he said.

    However, he noted that decisions regarding friendly matches and other aspects of the squad’s preparations will be made jointly by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and head coach Carlos Queiroz, with both parties aligned on the final approach to the tournament build-up.

    “If the coach wants a game, we arrange. If he doesn’t need a game, we move. We told him about a second game before we played against Wales. We were all looking forward to it. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, and collectively we have decided to move on. So it’s not about only the coach or the FA. We work hand in hand to ensure that the best possible arrangements are made for the team.”

    Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama as they chase a first World Cup knockout-stage qualification since the 2010 tournament.

  • 43% of Ghanaians believe coups are sometimes acceptable

    43% of Ghanaians believe coups are sometimes acceptable

    Findings from a recent study by the Political Science Department of the University of Ghana indicate that almost half  (43%) of Ghanaians support military takeovers.

    According to the study, the majority of people who believe these coups are sometimes justified are people in the Northern Regions.

    With a sample size of 6719 across all regions nationwide, the “ Undertones and Public Perceptions of Military Rule and Democracy in Ghana” study discovered that the Savannah, Upper West, Upper East, Northern, and North East regions recorded the highest percentages of respondents who agreed that military rule is sometimes justified followed by the Eastern Region where 77% of respondents also believe these take overs are justified.

    Also, the study reports that 34% of respondents would support military rule if democracy fails to improve economic conditions, while More than one in four (28%) people surveyed feel that if corruption continues unchecked under democratic governments, they would be open to a military government. 

    Speaking after the presentation of the report on Wednesday, June 9, the Head of the Political Science Department at the University of Ghana, Prof. Isaac Owusu Mensah, noted that the findings show Ghanaians remain committed to democracy despite concerns about corruption.

    “The position of the respondents is that even though democracy has a lot of shortcomings, they have a lot of issues and problems, but they still prefer democratic governments to military regimes because the military regimes curtail their fundamental human rights and also their ability to change and hold governments accountable at the end of the day.

    “They are not happy with democracy at the end of the day because they think that corruption and also democracy are an inability to deliver economic outcomes as we expect. That’s why they have problems with democracy,” he said.

    The report also recommended improving transparency, strengthening accountability, and ensuring government responsiveness to the critical needs of citizens.

    Recently, military takeovers have become quite rampant in our region, with Guinea-Bissau becoming the sixth (6th) country to join the junta states in West Africa after the military announced a takeover on November 26, just a day before their election results were set to be announced.

    Guinea-Bissau’s coup adds to the many others that have happened in the last four years in West Africa. In 2020, the military took over after ousting President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta in Mali. In September 2021, the military removed President Alpha Condé in Guinea. A year later, two coups happened in Burkina Faso, which remains under military rule under Captain Ibrahim Traoré. Niger also, in July 2023, saw a coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Chad went under military rule in April 2021 after the death of President Idriss Déby. Though Chad is in Central Africa, it is often grouped with the West African “coup belt.”

    After a military takeover, ECOWAS mostly suspends the country. Although Guinea remains suspended due to a military coup in 2021, it has not formally withdrawn from the bloc.

    However, following their takeovers, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger withdrew from ECOWAS in January 2025. The three military-led countries released a joint statement accusing ECOWAS of betraying its founding principles and becoming a threat to member states and their populations. They cited what they described as the imposition of “illegal, illegitimate, inhumane, and irresponsible sanctions” following their respective coups. These sanctions included economic restrictions and diplomatic isolation, which the juntas argued worsened insecurity and economic hardship in their countries.

    The trio also called ECOWAS ‘puppets’ of foreign powers, particularly Western nations, criticizing the bloc for failing to support their efforts to combat terrorism and restore stability.

    One of the military coups seemingly supported by the population includes the one led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré. He became the interim president of Burkina Faso after staging a military coup on September 30, 2022, with the help of junior officers and elements of the elite “Cobra” special forces, many of whom were aggrieved by poor equipment, unpaid salaries, and deteriorating conditions.

    Traoré’s overthrow made him the youngest head of state in the world at the time. He ousted Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, another military leader who had seized power eight months earlier using similar means. Traoré attributed his takeover to Damiba’s failure to curb jihadist violence and restore security across the country. Since taking office, he has made significant changes in the administration that have attracted global attention.

    He nationalised gold mines and created a state-owned mining company, SOPAMIB, which now controls several formerly foreign-owned assets. He approved the construction of Burkina Faso’s first gold refinery, capable of processing 400 kg of gold daily, creating thousands of jobs. He also cut ministers’ salaries by 30% and increased civil servants’ wages by 50%.

    Growing taste for military rule among Ghanaian youth – CDD survey

    Meanwhile, the 2024 Afrobarometer survey revealed that a growing number of Ghanaians are now supporting the idea of military involvement in politics if elected leaders abuse their power.

    Conducted by the Centre for Democratic Development-Ghana (CDD-Ghana), the survey showed that 51% of the population believes the Ghana Armed Forces should intervene in such cases, an increase of 11 percentage points from 40% in 2022.

    On the other hand, resistance to military intervention is decreasing, with the percentage of Ghanaians who oppose military involvement dropping from 55% in 2022 to 47% in 2024.

    These findings were presented during a regional dissemination event in Kumasi, organised by CDD-Ghana in collaboration with the Centre for Community Livelihood Development.

    The event was supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) as part of the Participation, Accountability, Integrity for Resilient Democracy (PAIReD) initiative, which is co-funded by the European Union (EU) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs. It is commissioned by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented in partnership with Ghana’s Ministry of Finance.

    One concerning aspect of the survey is the strong support for military intervention among the youth. Fifty-two percent of respondents between the ages of 18 and 25 believe the military should take control if political leaders fail, with 56% of those aged 26-35 sharing the same view.

    There were also differences between men and women, with 53% of men and 48% of women supporting military intervention under these circumstances.

  • Camidoh set to release third single “A Thing I Like” today

    Camidoh set to release third single “A Thing I Like” today

    Ghanaian Afro-Pop artiste Camidoh has been releasing back-to-back singles this year, and he is set to thrill his fans with another banger titled “A Thing I Like”, featuring rising musician and label mate PBee on the 10th of this month.

    His first single this year, “Ride Solo”, was released in March 2026, and the second “Phony”, on April 3.

    In “Ride Solo”, Camidoh’s soulful, introspective side emphasised strength in solitude, with “Phony” highlighting his social commentary side, calling out dishonesty and valuing authenticity.

    According to the singer, the new track continues his exploration of love-themed music while blending contemporary Afrobeat influences with a distinctly Ghanaian sound.

    Produced by Klasik Beats and mixed and mastered by Mr Groove, the song features a catchy hook and vibrant melodies designed to appeal to a broad audience.

    The song “A Thing I Like” uses a short piece (11 seconds) from “Eye Mo De Anaa,” an old popular song by Ghanaian music legend Reggie Rockstone, who is known as one of the pioneers of Hiplife.

    By combining this classic Hiplife sound with today’s Afro-Pop style, the artists have created a song that feels both familiar to older listeners and fresh to younger audiences.

    PBee contributes his own distinctive style to the collaboration, complementing Camidoh’s vocals and highlighting the growing creative partnership within the TOPBÖY SOUND and GRIND DONT STOP camp.

    The artistes say the record celebrates attraction, admiration and positive energy, while reinforcing Camidoh’s commitment to promoting Ghanaian music on the global stage and honouring the pioneers who helped shape the industry.

  • About 74% of evacuated Ghanaians had overstayed visas, been declared undesirable – SA’s Int’l Relations Minister

    About 74% of evacuated Ghanaians had overstayed visas, been declared undesirable – SA’s Int’l Relations Minister

    About 74% of Ghanaians who were recently evacuated from South Africa amid the growing violent xenophobic attacks were declared undesirable through established legal procedures as they had overstayed their visas, the country’s International Relations Minister, Ronald Lamola, has revealed.

    “As I’ve said earlier on, with the bulk of all Ghanaians that have come back home, almost 74% had overstayed, and they had been declared undesirable through our processes, and this is the law, and this has been communicated to the High Commissioner,” Mr Lamola stated during an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Wednesday, June 10.

    However, he argues that despite the status of these foreign nationals, whether legal or illegal, his government remains committed to protecting all persons within its borders, including Ghanaian nationals.

    He indicated that Ghanaians have already remained a major contributor to their economy.

    “We are indeed protecting all people within the borders of South Africa. Constitutionally, we are duty-bound to protect everyone, including Ghanaian nationals.

    “There is a huge number of them in the various sectors of our economy. The South African government is duty-bound to ensure that they feel safe and they play their role as they are supposed to be in the country,” he indicated.

    He stressed that constitutional protections extend to everyone living in South Africa, irrespective of their immigration status.

    “The Constitution does not differentiate. The government has the responsibility to make sure that everyone is safe,” he said.

    The remarks were made as the government condemned violence against foreign nationals and reiterated its obligation to guarantee the safety of all residents.

    “It is for that reason why we are condemning the violence against foreign nationals, because it is our duty as the government of South Africa to protect everyone within our borders,” Mr Lamola explained.

    At the same time, he said the government would continue tackling irregular migration through the strict enforcement of immigration laws.

    “We also have a duty to deal with irregular migration by enforcing the immigration policy,” he stated.

  • 2026 WC: Black Stars move to a new training ground over privacy, security concerns 

    2026 WC: Black Stars move to a new training ground over privacy, security concerns 

    FIFA designated Bryant University in Boston as Ghana’s official training base for the 2026 FIFA World Cup competition.

    However, after just two training sessions at the facility, the team expressed concerns about safety and security following visits by the public.

    Ghana’s head coach, Carlos Queiroz, indicated that public access to the facility compromises the team’s privacy and security as Ghana fine-tunes its preparations for the global showpiece.

    Consequently, the Black Stars technical team, including John Painstil, protocol officer Alex Asante, and assistant coach Desmond Ofei, were instructed to find a new facility for the Black Stars.

    After reviewing available options, the Black Stars have now moved their training to a facility in Virginia.

    While the team has found a more convenient space that suits their preference, the Ghana Football Authority (GFA) says the new arrangement comes at an extra cost.

    The entire Ghana delegation, including players and officials, has already settled into the new training camp as the team continues preparations for its World Cup campaign.

    The Black Stars are expected to maintain an intensive training schedule ahead of their Group L opener against Panama on June 17.

    Ghana was anticipating another friendly ahead of their World Cup opener against Panama on June 17; however, following unsuccessful negotiations with the targeted teams, including Jamaica and Honduras, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed that there will be no additional friendly matches for the Black Stars.

    Speaking during a media interview, the GFA Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, said his outfit has not scheduled an alternative game following the failed negotiations with the two teams.

    “At this point, it is a big no [to playing another friendly game]. We don’t have any game on paper at this point. It doesn’t look likely, but I am not in the position to rule out anything yet.”

    He explained that any late decision would depend on the technical team’s assessment of the squad’s needs, but indicated that only a low- or mid-intensity match would be considered at this stage.

    “If it is that we wake up tomorrow and he wants to play, maybe a mid- to low-intensity game, I don’t think he will accept a high-intensity game at this point. But if it is that we wake up tomorrow and he wants to play a mid- to low-intensity game, we will make it public. At this point, there is nothing of the sort on paper,” he said.

    However, he noted that decisions regarding friendly matches and other aspects of the squad’s preparations will be made jointly by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and head coach Carlos Queiroz, with both parties aligned on the final approach to the tournament build-up.

    “If the coach wants a game, we arrange. If he doesn’t need a game, we move. We told him about a second game before we played against Wales. We were all looking forward to it. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, and collectively we have decided to move on. So it’s not about only the coach or the FA. We work hand in hand to ensure that the best possible arrangements are made for the team.”

    Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama as they chase a first World Cup knockout-stage qualification since the 2010 tournament.

    Final list for World Cup

    Ghana’s head coach has released the final squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) published the squad list on its official website and social media platforms.

    Goalkeepers Paul Reverson and Solomon Agbasi have been omitted from the initial 28-man provisional squad, while vice-captain Alexander Djiku misses out through injury and is replaced by Derrick Luckassen.

    Here is the full squad:

    Goalkeepers

    Benjamin AsareLawrence Ati-ZigiJoseph Anang

    Defenders

    Baba Abdul RahmanGideon MensahMarvin SenayaAlidu SeiduAbdul MuminJerome OpokuJonas AdjeteyKojo Oppong Nkrumah PreprahDerrick Luckassen

    Midfielders

    Thomas ParteyElisha OwusuKwasi SiboAugustine BoakyeCaleb YirenkyiAbdul Fatawu Issahaku, Kamaldeen Sulemana

    Forwards

    Jordan AyewAntoine SemenyoInaki WilliamsErnest NuamahChristopher Bonsu Baah, Brandon Thomas-Asante, and Prince Kwabena Adu.

  • June 4 Revolution: How junior soldiers brought down Ghana’s military elite in 1979

    June 4 Revolution: How junior soldiers brought down Ghana’s military elite in 1979

    In the late 1970s, Ghana was said to be in crisis. General Ignatius Kutu Acheampong’s Supreme Military Council (SMC I), which had governed since ousting Prime Minister Kofi Abrefa Busia in 1972, was accused of presiding over spiralling inflation, commodity shortages, and rampant graft. In 1978, Acheampong was forced out by his own generals and replaced by Lt. General Fred Akuffo, but that did not end the misery.

    Junior soldiers went unpaid, markets were empty and resentment between the lower ranks and the officer class had reached a breaking point.

    On May 15, 1979, Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings led a group of junior army officers in an attempted overthrow of the military government of General Fred Akuffo, but they failed. Rawlings was arrested, court-martialled, and sentenced to death.

    The public trial, however, backfired spectacularly on the establishment. Rawlings used the courtroom as a platform, accusing the government of corruption and demanding accountability. His trial only served to make him popular among the junior ranks of the armed forces and the general public. He became a hero before the revolution had even succeeded.

    The night that changed everything: June 3–4

    On the night of June 3, 1979, a group of junior officers, including Major Boakye Djan and enlisted personnel of the Fifth Battalion and the Reconnaissance Regiment in Burma Camp, staged a bloody coup and freed Rawlings.

    Rawlings was sent to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation studios. On June 4, 1979, Ghana was ushered into its morning life with an announcement on the radio by Flight Lieutenant Jerry Rawlings of a change in government by the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council.

    Over the course of thirty-six hours, they overthrew an authoritarian military regime and installed the AFRC, a populist collective led by Rawlings.

    There wasn’t a major resistance to the takeover, but it was bloody. According to accounts, Major-General Odartey Wellington who was then the Chief of Army Staff of the Ghana Army mounted a lone stand inside an armoured car, firing for three continuous hours before dashing to the Nima Police Station to surrender. He was killed by military officers the moment he stepped out.

    The AFRC was deliberately cross-rank, a conscious statement that this was not another elite coup. The Armed Forces Revolutionary Council included a cross-section of ranks from private and lance corporal to staff sergeant, airman, lieutenant, and naval commander.

    Rawlings became Chairman with Major Boakye Gyan as the Spokesman. Other members were Major Mensah Poku, Major Mensah Gbedemah, Warrant Officer Class II Obeng, Private Owusu Adu, Corporal Owusu Boateng, Staff Sergeant Alex Adjei, Leading Aircraftman Gatsiko, Lance Corporal Sarkodee Addo, Lance-Corporal Peter Tasiri, Lance-Corporal Ansah-Atiemo and Corporal Sheikh Tetteh. General Hamidu was named as the Liaison Officer between the AFRC and the government bureaucracy.

    The house-cleaning: executions at Teshie

    The AFRC immediately launched what it called a “house-cleaning exercise”, people’s courts targeting those accused of corruption and economic crimes. The results were swift and severe.

    As a first step in the house-cleaning exercise, Acheampong and Major General E.K. Utuka were executed at the Teshie military range on June 16, 1979, after a hastily assembled revolutionary court. Ten days later, on June 26, the death sentence on General F.W.K. Akuffo, Lt. General A.A. Afrifa, Major-General R.E.A. Kotei, Air Vice-Marshal George Yaw Boakye, Rear Admiral J.K. Amedume, and Colonel R.J.A. Felli was pronounced and implemented.

    Eight officers in total were shot by firing squad. Three of them had been heads of state.

    In a radio broadcast on June 30, 1979, Rawlings said, “The action represented a revolt of the ordinary Ghanaian against social injustice, against economic hardship and against the cancer of corruption that had eaten deep into the fabric of our society.”

    111 days, then the handover

    The AFRC declared that the coup d’état was not to stop the return to civilian rule but to clear up the mess created by the previous regimes. True to that promise, the council allowed scheduled elections to proceed and power was handed to Dr. Hilla Limann in September 1979.

    But Rawlings again overthrew Limann on 31st December 1981, establishing the PNDC. He would go on to become Ghana’s first democratically elected president in 1992, and serve until 2001.

    In 2001, President John Agyekum Kufuor ordered the exhumation of the executed generals’ remains and their return to their families.

    Today, June 4th remains one of the most contested dates in Ghanaian history, celebrated by some as a moment of radical accountability and mourned by others as the beginning of a culture of impunity.

    The men who planned it are nearly all gone now. Major Boakye-Djan died in August 2023 and Rawlings himself passed in November 2020.

    The revolution lasted 111 days, but its consequences lasted decades.

  • Attorney-General to hold talks with US on pending extradition cases – Kwakye Ofosu

    Attorney-General to hold talks with US on pending extradition cases – Kwakye Ofosu

    The Attorney General is set to meet with US authorities to discuss the rest of the pending extradition cases involving both countries, according to the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.

    He revealed this in a formal Facebook post yesterday, Tuesday, June 9, when he announced the arrival of extradited former and embattled  Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu, in the early hours of the same day.

    “Meanwhile, the Attorney-General is scheduled to meet his counterparts at the United States Department of Justice for a bilateral discussion on all pending extradition requests between the two countries,” he said in the post.

    He revealed that the former Chief Executive Officer of the now-defunct MASLOC is in Ghana to serve her 10-year prison sentence handed to her by the Accra High Court after being found guilty of over seventy-eight (78)  charges, including money laundering, misappropriation of public funds, among other financial irregularities, which is said to have cost the state over GHC 70 million.

    The Minister said, “In April, 2024, the High Court convicted and sentenced SEDINA TAMAKLOE-ATTIONU in absentia. In July 2024, the Government of Ghana submitted an extradition request to the United States for her surrender to Ghana to serve her sentence.  After over two years of court proceedings, the United States authorities notified the Government of her surrender in January this year. She arrived in Accra on Tuesday, June 9, 2026”.

    He added that following her arrival, “Officials of the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Prisons Service have taken her into custody and are making the necessary preparations for her to begin her sentence”.

    According to the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Ms Tamakloe-Attionu.

    Meanwhile, following the Minister’s announcement that the former MASLOC CEO had arrived and was undergoing the necessary procedures to start serving her sentence, several netizens expressed doubts about her serving the sentence.

     One netizen indicated that until pictures of her arrival are shared, none of the Minister’s words would be taken seriously.

    “So we can’t see her in handcuffs, and how she was arrested? Settings?”


    Another user also indicated that the CEO’s deputy, Daniel Axim, who was tried and found guilty of conspiracy and abetting, didn’t serve the five-year sentence handed him by the court, but he was seen moving freely at Nsawam after the NDC assumed power.

    “Interestingly, Sedina Tamakloe’s co-defendant, Daniel Axim, was released from Nsawam immediately NDC came to power. This is all settings!”, one user commented under the Minister’s post.

    However, the United States has confirmed the extradition of the former Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Sedina Tamakloe Attionu.

    The U.S Embassy in Ghana confirmed the extradition in a Facebook post.

    “Justice has no borders. The United States has extradited Sedina Tamakloe Attionu to Ghana, following her conviction on 70+ corruption-related charges, including embezzling more than $6M equivalent in Ghanaian taxpayer funds.

    This is our strong U.S.-Ghana law enforcement partnership in action, demonstrating a shared commitment to accountability and the first extradition from the United States to Ghana since 2009”, the US Embassy indicated.

    Background

    How it started

    In 2017, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) launched an investigation into MASLOC’s operations under Sedina Tamakloe Attionu’s leadership during her three-year tenure at the Centre. Following the investigations, EOCo discovered massive financial irregularities and embezzlement by the MASLOC bosses.

    Findings

    EOCO found fraudulent disbursements of MASLOC funds. Inflated procurement of vehicles and mobile phones without approval from the Public Procurement Authority. misappropriation of funds meant for victims of the 2013 Kantamanto Market fire and questionable ex-gratia payments to herself and her deputy.

    Consequently, in January 2019, she was formally arraigned before the High Court on 78 counts, including stealing, conspiracy, causing financial loss to the state, money laundering, and procurement breaches.

    After two years of legal tussle, she requested permission to travel to the USA to seek medical care, which was granted; however, she failed to return to Ghana to continue participating in the proceedings, hence she was tried in absentia.

    In 2024, the Accra High Court sentenced Attionu in absentia to 10 years’ imprisonment after finding her guilty of multiple offences, including causing financial loss to the state and stealing. The court held that her actions during her tenure as MASLOC Chief Executive between 2013 and 2016 resulted in a financial loss of nearly GH¢90 million to the state.

    Following her conviction and sentencing, Ghanaian authorities intensified efforts to secure her return, with the government formally requesting her extradition from the United States in 2025.

    A United States District Court in Nevada subsequently considered the extradition request and, after reviewing the application and supporting legal documentation submitted by Ghanaian authorities, certified the request, paving the way for her return to Ghana.

    Officials have yet to indicate whether any additional legal proceedings will arise following her return. However, her extradition and transfer to prison are expected to bring closure to a case that has remained in the public spotlight for several years.

    Meanwhile, the Ghanaian government was making arrangements to bring her to serve her sentence, but it appeared a bit challenging. Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed that the United States government has given its word to Ghana that it will not impede the extradition of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori‑Atta and former MASLOC boss Sedina Tamakloe Attionu.

    Mr Ablakwa disclosed after a bilateral meeting held on January 13 in Accra with the acting USA Ambassador to Ghana, Rolf Olson and his entourage.

    “The United States Government has assured that, without prejudice to judicial processes, it will not stand in the way of Ghana as regards the removal of Ken Ofori‑Atta and Sedina Tamakloe Attionu,” he said.

    Currently, one of the former government officials whose extradition many await is Ken Ofori-Atta.

  • Cedi continues to depreciate amid amid demand for foreign exchange growing corporate repatriation

    Cedi continues to depreciate amid amid demand for foreign exchange growing corporate repatriation

    For the past two weeks the Ghana cedi has seen a depreciation.The depreciation against major  trading currencies have been linked to the rising demand for foreign exchange and foreign companies converting cedis into foreign currency to send profits back to their home countries.

    Per the last market update released by the Bank of Ghana, between  June 3–5, the cedi had depreciated 10.91% year-to-date with an interbank rate around GH¢11.74/$. The Central Bank announced increased forex auctions of up to $1.2 billion for June and analysts noted the cedi trading around GH¢11.72–11.74 per US dollar. 

    However the latest market update, weakened in both the interbank and retail foreign exchange markets, with analysts attributing the depreciation to heightened demand for US dollars amid moderate foreign exchange supply.

    The cedi traded at GHS 11.85 to the US dollar, down from GHS 11.63 recorded in the previous review period in the interbank market and also depreciated against the British pound and the euro, with exchange rates rising to GHS 15.85 per pound and GHS 13.66 per euro from GHS 15.62 and GHS 13.49, respectively.

    This means that one needs more cedis to buy these foreign currencies than they needed about a week ago.

    The cedi also lost value in the retail foreign exchange market, where ordinary consumers and businesses buy foreign currency with the cedi depreciating 0.81% against the dollar, 1.83% against the pound and 1.40% against the euro.

    Even though the Bank of Ghana injected about $1.1 billion into the foreign exchange market in May to support the cedi, the currency still weakened. In fact, the cedi lost value faster between April and May than it did in the previous month.

    According to a report by citinewsroom.com, analysts have attributed the weakness to demand for foreign currency consistently outpacing supply, compounded by growing global appetite for the US dollar as central banks liquidate non-dollar assets to meet rising import costs driven by persistently high crude oil prices.

    Looking ahead, market observers expect speculation in the foreign exchange market to remain relatively contained in June, supported by an announced $1.2 billion monthly foreign exchange support programme.

    “Corporate demand typically peaks during the Q2 repatriation window, driven by multinational dividend and profit outflows,” the report noted.

    The dollar-cedi exchange rate is expected to weaken further beyond the current interbank level of GHS 11.85 unless foreign exchange inflows strengthen significantly.

    Meanwhile, in South Africa, the rand also came under pressure during the review period, weakening by 1.15 percent to close at ZAR 16.28 per US dollar.

    Analysts attributed the decline to elevated oil prices and renewed geopolitical tensions that have dampened investor risk appetite and increased concerns over import costs.

    The outlook for the rand remains cautious, with elevated crude oil prices and uncertain global market conditions expected to keep the currency under pressure in the near term.

    Meanwhile, As part of a revamped reserve-building drive, large-scale gold miners ‌have been instructed by the government to sell 30% of their gold output to the central bank from the earlier 20%, this is according to a Reuters report.

    According to the report, the directive is yet to be accepted by miners, as key commercial terms remain unresolved. Last year, miners operating under valid mining license were offered a special temporary bonus scheme from the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) in efforts to support the industry as well as combating gold smuggling.

    The licensed miners will enjoy an additional GH¢832 per pound of gold sold through the Ghana Gold Board. This information was contained in a statement issued by the GoldBod on Wednesday, August 27.

    “This novelty is in response to legitimate complaints from licensed miners about the significant reduction in the local price of gold in the last few months due to the continuous appreciation of the Ghana cedi.

    “The special bonus will ensure that licensed miners who have contributed immensely to the country’s increased gold output and foreign exchange earnings do not indirectly suffer as a result of the significant appreciation of the Ghana cedi that they have helped the country achieve,” the statement read.

    According to GoldBod, the recent development has been made possible as a result of the continuous appreciation of the Ghana cedi.

  • Govt will not bear cost of demolitions,but landlords – IER

    Govt will not bear cost of demolitions,but landlords – IER

    About four buildings have collapsed in the month of June, and to prevent further disasters, the government has announced a demolition exercise targeting old, weak and dilapidated buildings.

    Altogether, these incidents have left multiple people dead and several injured, highlighting a worsening structural safety crisis this year.

    Over the years, the government has compensated landlords and homeowners following demolition exercises, but this time, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Ghana has indicated that the government will not bear any of such costs.

    Speaking on the exercise during an interview on Adom FM’s Burning Issues programme on June 9, President of the Institution, Davor Wonder, affirmed the Interior Minister’s June 7 announcement of a demolition exercise following the fatal building collapse at North Industrial Area.

    According to him, 16 unsafe buildings have been identified and earmarked for demolition.

    The engineer added that any landlord who fails to pay will be taken to court and made to pay the full cost of the demolition, as well as all related legal fees.

    About the demolition 

    Authorities began the exercise on Monday, June 8, demolishing a 50-year-old five-storey building at Osu.

    During the Osu building demolition, a tractor driver working at the site was injured when part of the structure collapsed unexpectedly during the controlled demolition. 

    He was rescued and rushed to hospital. Authorities later confirmed that no fatalities occurred at Osu, but the incident highlighted the risks involved in demolishing aged, unstable buildings.

    About buildings that have collapsed so far, injuries and fatalities

    Adenta

    On June 3, a two‑storey building at Adenta New Site caved in during a heavy downpour. The structure had long shown signs of weakness, and the downpour worsened its already compromised foundation. Rescue teams managed to pull out four people alive, but sadly, one person was confirmed dead. Preliminary investigations pointed to structural defects and poor construction practices, compounded by the rain’s impact.

    Barely five days after the Adenta incident, a building at the North Industrial Area near Avenor collapsed around 4:25 a.m. The collapse killed one person and left several others injured. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause. Authorities suspect serious structural compromise, but details remain under review. 

    Also, another collapse was recorded on June 8, at Madina. The building collapsed while an unauthorised vertical extension was being added. The collapse killed one person and injured five others. Investigators discovered that the developers had ignored stop‑work orders, used poor‑quality concrete, and lacked the necessary permits for the extension.

    On Sunday, June 7, the deadliest collapse occurred on June 9 at Avenor, where a building gave way, killing three people and leaving one survivor in critical condition. The Ghana National Fire Service confirmed that the structure had been severely compromised, and a court order was quickly issued to demolish the remaining unsafe portions. This incident was a turning point, prompting the government to announce the demolition of 16 structurally weak, old buildings across Accra to prevent further disasters.

  • Former MASLOC CEO Sedinam Tamakloe arrives in Ghana to serve 10-year jail term

    Former MASLOC CEO Sedinam Tamakloe arrives in Ghana to serve 10-year jail term

    The United States has confirmed the extradition of the former Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Sedina Tamakloe Attionu.

    In a Facebook post, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Fosu, indicated that Sedinam has returned to Ghana from the USA, two years and two months after the Accra High Court sentenced her to 10 years in prison for over 70 corruption-related charges. The charges include the alleged embezzlement of more than $6 million in public funds.

    He noted that she arrived at the Accra International Airport at approximately 7:18 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9, aboard United Airlines flight UA 996 from Washington Dulles International Airport in the United States.

    “In April, 2024, the High Court convicted and sentenced SEDINA TAMAKLOE-ATTIONU in absentia. In July 2024, the Government of Ghana submitted an extradition request to the United States for her surrender to Ghana to serve her sentence.  After over two years of court proceedings, the United States authorities notified the Government of her surrender in January this year. She arrived in Accra on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

    “Officials of the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Prisons Service have taken her into custody and are making the necessary preparations for her to begin her sentence. Meanwhile, the Attorney-General is scheduled to meet his counterparts at the United States Department of Justice for a bilateral discussion on all pending extradition requests between the two countries”, Kwakye Fosu said in the post.

    The U.S Embassy in Ghana confirmed the extradition in a Facebook post.

    “Justice has no borders. The United States has extradited Sedina Tamakloe Attionu to Ghana, following her conviction on 70+ corruption-related charges, including embezzling more than $6M equivalent in Ghanaian taxpayer funds. This is our strong U.S.-Ghana law enforcement partnership in action, demonstrating a shared commitment to accountability and the first extradition from the United States to Ghana since 2009”, the US Embassy indicated.

    Upon her arrival, she was received by security personnel and immediately taken into custody for debriefing and medical examinations as part of standard procedures before being transferred to begin serving her sentence.

    Her return follows a protracted extradition process initiated by the Government of Ghana after she failed to return to the country following a medical trip to the United States.

    Meanwhile, Sedinam’s deputy was tried alongside his boss but received a lighter sentence of 5 years with main charges tied to conspiracy and abetting, thus aiding his boss to conduct fraudulent schemes.

    Background

    How it started 

    In 2017, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) launched an investigation into MASLOC’s operations under Sedina Tamakloe Attionu’s leadership during her three-year tenure at the Centre. Following the investigations, EOCo discovered massive financial irregularities and embezzlement by the MASLOC bosses.

    Findings

    EOCO found fraudulent disbursements of MASLOC funds. Inflated procurement of vehicles and mobile phones without approval from the Public Procurement Authority. misappropriation of funds meant for victims of the 2013 Kantamanto Market fire and questionable ex-gratia payments to herself and her deputy.

    Consequently, in January 2019, she was formally arraigned before the High Court on 78 counts, including stealing, conspiracy, causing financial loss to the state, money laundering, and procurement breaches. 

    After two years of legal tussle, she requested permission to travel to the USA to seek medical care, which was granted; however, she failed to return to Ghana to continue participating in the proceedings, hence she was tried in absentia.

    In 2024, the Accra High Court sentenced Attionu in absentia to 10 years’ imprisonment after finding her guilty of multiple offences, including causing financial loss to the state and stealing. The court held that her actions during her tenure as MASLOC Chief Executive between 2013 and 2016 resulted in a financial loss of nearly GH¢90 million to the state.

    Following her conviction and sentencing, Ghanaian authorities intensified efforts to secure her return, with the government formally requesting her extradition from the United States in 2025.

    A United States District Court in Nevada subsequently considered the extradition request and, after reviewing the application and supporting legal documentation submitted by Ghanaian authorities, certified the request, paving the way for her return to Ghana.

    Officials have yet to indicate whether any additional legal proceedings will arise following her return. However, her extradition and transfer to prison are expected to bring closure to a case that has remained in the public spotlight for several years.

    Meanwhile, the Ghanaian government was making arrangements to bring her to serve her sentence, but it appeared a bit challenging. Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed that the United States government has given its word to Ghana that it will not impede the extradition of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori‑Atta and former MASLOC boss Sedina Tamakloe Attionu.

    Mr Ablakwa disclosed after a bilateral meeting held on January 13 in Accra with the acting USA Ambassador to Ghana, Rolf Olson and his entourage.

    “The United States Government has assured that, without prejudice to judicial processes, it will not stand in the way of Ghana as regards the removal of Ken Ofori‑Atta and Sedina Tamakloe Attionu,” he said.

    Currently, one of the former government officials whose extradition many await is Ken Ofori-Atta.

  • Black Stars won’t play additional friendlies before the World Cup – Henry Twum

    Black Stars won’t play additional friendlies before the World Cup – Henry Twum

    Ghana was anticipating another friendly ahead of their World Cup opener against Panama on June 17; however, following unsuccessful negotiations with the targeted teams, including Jamaica and Honduras, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed that there will be no additional friendly matches for the Black Stars.

    Speaking during a media interview, the GFA Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, said his outfit has not scheduled an alternative game following the failed negotiations with the two teams.

    “At this point, it is a big no [to playing another friendly game]. We don’t have any game on paper at this point. It doesn’t look likely, but I am not in the position to rule out anything yet.”

    He explained that any late decision would depend on the technical team’s assessment of the squad’s needs, but indicated that only a low- or mid-intensity match would be considered at this stage.

    “If it is that we wake up tomorrow and he wants to play, maybe a mid- to low-intensity game, I don’t think he will accept a high-intensity game at this point. But if it is that we wake up tomorrow and he wants to play a mid- to low-intensity game, we will make it public. At this point, there is nothing of the sort on paper,” he said.

    However, he noted that decisions regarding friendly matches and other aspects of the squad’s preparations will be made jointly by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and head coach Carlos Queiroz, with both parties aligned on the final approach to the tournament build-up.

    “If the coach wants a game, we arrange. If he doesn’t need a game, we move. We told him about a second game before we played against Wales. We were all looking forward to it. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, and collectively we have decided to move on. So it’s not about only the coach or the FA. We work hand in hand to ensure that the best possible arrangements are made for the team.”

    Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama as they chase a first World Cup knockout-stage qualification since the 2010 tournament.

    Each Black Stars player is to be paid a $100,000 appearance fee

    Ghana’s Sports Minister has confirmed that the Black Stars will receive a $100,000 appearance fee for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    He disclosed this during a live TV3 Hot Issues interview on Sunday, May 31. According to him, there were suggestions of a possible increase linked to the cedi’s appreciation against the dollar.

    “The appearance fee for the Black Stars players has been pegged at $100,000 per player. Some said that because the cedi had become stronger, we should increase it, but we said no. Because if the cedi had become weaker, would you have said that we should reduce the dollar (equivalent) so it gives you the same cedi amount? You would not say so.”

    The practice of paying appearance fees is as old as Ghana’s participation in the World Cup, with Ghana pegging the appearance fee at $100,000, in the last sixteen years

    Since 2010, however, the appearance fees have been pegged at $100,000, and per the Minister’s comments, the current group will also benefit.

    On players currently camping for the June 2 fixture against Wales as a preparatory game ahead of the tournament,he indicated that 28 players are currently in Ghana’s pre-tournament camp in Wales, with 26 slots up for grabs.

    Two of the 28 players will be dropped before Ghana confirms the final 26-man squad on Monday, June 1, 2026.

    On Saturday, Thomas Partey and Inaki Williams joined their teammates as the Black Stars prepared for their first pre-World Cup friendly against Wales.

    Final list for World Cup 

    Ghana’s head coach has released the final squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) published the squad list on its official website and social media platforms.

    Goalkeepers Paul Reverson and Solomon Agbasi have been omitted from the initial 28-man provisional squad, while vice-captain Alexander Djiku misses out through injury and is replaced by Derrick Luckassen.

    Here is the full squad:

    Goalkeepers

    Benjamin AsareLawrence Ati-ZigiJoseph Anang

    Defenders

    Baba Abdul RahmanGideon MensahMarvin SenayaAlidu SeiduAbdul MuminJerome OpokuJonas AdjeteyKojo Oppong Nkrumah PreprahDerrick Luckassen

    Midfielders

    Thomas ParteyElisha OwusuKwasi SiboAugustine BoakyeCaleb YirenkyiAbdul Fatawu Issahaku, Kamaldeen Sulemana

    Forwards

    Jordan AyewAntoine SemenyoInaki WilliamsErnest NuamahChristopher Bonsu Baah, Brandon Thomas-Asante, and Prince Kwabena Adu.

  • Ghana welcomes Ramaphosa’s condemnation of xenophobic attacks, calls for action

    Ghana welcomes Ramaphosa’s condemnation of xenophobic attacks, calls for action

    Ghana has welcomed the remarks from South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa, condemning the recent violent xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals in the last few weeks.

    This comes after President Ramaphosa, during a televised media address on Sunday, June 7,  from the Union Buildings in Pretoria, warned against vigilantism and announced new and stricter border control laws. He later affirmed his country’s values as being omas being 

    “Firstly, we are and will continue to crack down on the violation of our immigration, labour and other laws. And finally, we will continue to engage other countries, including our sister countries on the African continent, to forge a broader response to migration challenges across our region and the continent”, the president of SA indicated.

    In response to his remarks, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has welcomed Ramaphosa’s condemnation of recent xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals, describing his intervention as long overdue, but urged him to take action against perpetrators and restore peace in SA.

    “We welcome his stance because it has been long overdue. We expected him to make emphatic statements condemning these acts,” Media Relations Officer at Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Fred Duhoe, said during an interview with Citi TV today, June 9.

    “But beyond that, we believe he must take a further step by directing security and law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to book because they are still threatening to enforce their June 30 deadline,” he added.

    Speaking on any plans by the government to evacuate more Ghanaians from SA, Mr Duhoe explained that currently, following the three successful evacuations of Ghanaians, a decision has yet to be made if there would be a need for a fourth evacuation.

    “We’ve conducted three successful evacuations. We want to take stock of what we have done so far and assess the situation so that if there is a need for a fourth evacuation, we will undertake it. At the moment, we are considering the extent to which the government can intervene when individuals voluntarily request evacuation,” he added.

    The second batch of Ghanaian evacuees from South Africa arrived on Sunday, June 7 after the Ghanaian government announced a voluntary evacuation programme in response to the rising violent xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa.

    Before the exercise, the Commission announced the temporary suspension of the repatriation registration exercise to allow it to complete the screening of the growing number of people who have currently registered for the voluntary repatriation.

    In a notice to Ghanaians in South Africa, the Commission released a list of registered evacuees who are set to be airlifted on Sunday to report to the Commission by Saturday, June 6, for briefing, verification and other pre-departure procedures.

    “All individuals scheduled for evacuation on Sunday, 7 June 2026, are required to report to the High Commission on the evening of Saturday, 6 June 2026, for pre-departure arrangements, verification, and briefing”, parts of the notice read. It also admonished that all persons on the list who have changed their minds about returning home should inform the consular by tomorrow, Thursday, June 4, to aid arrangements for other interested persons.

    “Individuals whose names appear on the approved evacuation list but no longer intend to travel are kindly requested to notify the High Commission no later than 12:00 noon on Thursday, 4 June 2026. This will enable other eligible applicants to be accommodated on the flight”, the notice added.

    Luggage requirements and guidelines for parents and guardians

    Under the travel guidelines, each passenger will be permitted to check in two bags, with a maximum weight of 23 kilograms per bag. Any luggage exceeding the stipulated limit will not be accepted.

    Parents and guardians travelling with children have been advised to carry all required travel documents, including consent letters where necessary.

    “Each traveller is entitled to two pieces of checked luggage with a maximum weight of 23kg each. Any baggage exceeding the prescribed weight limit will not be accepted for travel.

    Parents or guardians travelling with children are required to bring all necessary travel documentation, including consent letters (where applicable), Road-to-Health Cards, and/or child weighing cards.

    “Travellers issued with Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs) will receive their documents at the airport on the day of departure”, the notice added.

  • Several patients distressed, starnded as KATH doctors, nurses continue to protest over CEO’s suspension

    Several patients distressed, starnded as KATH doctors, nurses continue to protest over CEO’s suspension

    The suspension of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Paa Kwesi Baidoo of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) has significantly affected patients, with many left stranded at the hospital’s Out-Patient Department (OPD) in Kumasi as doctors and nurses reportedly refuse to attend to new cases in protest against the suspension.

    This has caused widespread disruption, as one of the country’s largest referral facilities is temporarily not attending to patients, leaving them struggling to access medical care.

    The protest comes after the Ministry of Health suspended the CEO for two weeks to allow for an independent investigation into the temporary closure of the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Centre, with the aim of ensuring accountability and clarity regarding the decision to shut down the 37-bed emergency facility.

    In a statement dated June 5, the Health Ministry, through an official letter from the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, to the hospital’s Board, announced the CEO’s suspension, citing Section 36(1) of the Ghana Health Service and Teaching Hospitals Act, 1996 (Act 526).

    Section 36(1) of the Ghana Health Service and Teaching Hospitals Act, 1996 (Act 526) places a clear limitation on the powers of Teaching Hospital Boards; they cannot take decisions or perform functions that contradict directives issued by the Minister of Health or the Ghana Health Service Council.

    The Ministry has also appealed to health professionals at the hospital to return to duty, warning that the disruption is affecting vulnerable patients who rely on the facility for critical care.

    However, doctors and nurses at KATH are reportedly maintaining their position, leaving large numbers of patients stranded at the OPD.

    JOY NEWS reports from the hospital described scenes of confusion as patients waited for hours without being attended to.

    Meanwhile, the Health Workers Union of the Trades Union Congress (TUC-Ghana), KATH branch, has issued a statement backing the stance of the medical staff, further complicating efforts to restore normal operations.

    Authorities are yet to indicate when full services are expected to resume, as pressure mounts on all sides to resolve the impasse and restore healthcare delivery at the facility.

    When did the protest start? Unions included in the protest?

    A day (June 6) after the Health Ministry announced the suspension of the CEO, declared an indefinite strike, announcing a total withdrawal of services from 6:00 a.m., labelling the Health Ministry’s move as unjustified and counterproductive.

    On Sunday, June 7, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), KATH branch, joined the strike at 8:00 a.m expressing support for the doctors’ move and demanding the immediate reinstatement of Dr Baidoo, arguing the suspension would not solve congestion and resource challenges.

    Background

    On Wednesday, June 3, the Health Ministry summoned the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Dr Paa Kwesi Baidoo, over a notice of congestion at the hospital’s Accident and Emergency (A&E) Centre, which has led to a growing number of referrals from other medical facilities.

    However, following widespread reports of the situation, the Health Ministry issued a query to the CEO of the Kumasi-based health facility to explain what it described as an attempt to disregard the President’s directive to hospitals not to turn away emergency cases.

    In response to the Health Ministry’s query to the KATH CEO, the Komfo Anokye Doctors’ Association (KADA), in a rejoinder dated June 4, defended the CEO, describing the move as knee-jerk.

    The Association urged authorities to focus on addressing the systemic challenges confronting the hospital rather than assigning blame.

    “We are therefore concerned that the issuance of a query to the Chief Executive Officer appears to be a knee-jerk response to a crisis rather than addressing the underlying systemic challenges that precipitated the situation,” parts of the statement read.

    The Association dismissed claims that patients were denied treatment, stating that management’s decision to redirect some cases through other health facilities was necessary to prevent overcrowding and avoid risking patients’ lives.

    “Allowing more patients into an already overstretched emergency facility would have compromised quality care and endangered lives.

    “Management’s decision to liaise with nearby hospitals and temporarily redirect patients was a responsible measure aimed at ensuring patient safety and continuity of care, rather than a refusal to provide healthcare services,” the statement added.

    Consequently, KADA urged that efforts to protect patient safety deserve recognition and called on authorities to avoid making premature judgments without a proper review of available reports.

    “The healthcare professionals of KATH believe that leaders who take difficult but necessary decisions in the interest of patient safety should be supported and engaged constructively rather than publicly subjected to disciplinary processes without a comprehensive review of the prevailing circumstances,” the statement continued.

  • Declan Rice is England’s new vice captain – Thomas Tuchel

    Declan Rice is England’s new vice captain – Thomas Tuchel

    England manager Thomas Tuchel has announced Declan Rice as his vice captain for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    He announced this on Saturday, June 7, at England’s World Cup training camp in West Palm Beach, Florida (USA), confirming it also during his post‑match press conference after England’s 1‑0 warm‑up win over New Zealand in Tampa.

    According to him, “I think I would say Declan is my vice-captain,” Tuchel told reporters after the victory.

    The England boss then joked about whether Rice was even aware of the appointment.

    “That is a good question. I was just thinking about it. Whether it is an official thing or not.”

    Tuchel went on to explain that the decision was effectively communicated earlier in the year when Rice led the team in Kane’s absence.

    “When Harry was not in camp with us, I think Declan was captain. That was where I told him.”

    The announcement came as Rice and his Arsenal teammates Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze joined England’s training camp in Florida ahead of the tournament.

    The Arsenal quartet touched down at the team’s base in West Palm Beach after the squad triumphed in their friendlies against New Zealand.

    With preparations now shifting towards their final World Cup warm-up match against Costa Rica.

    Rice has steadily emerged as one of the most influential figures in the England setup and previously captained the side during a friendly against Wales when regular skipper Harry Kane was unavailable.

    Before Rice, the role had been held by Jordan Henderson under Gareth Southgate’s tenure. Henderson served as Harry Kane’s deputy for several years, especially during the Euro 2020 and World Cup 2022 cycles.

    Kane remains England’s captain, but if the striker is unavailable at any stage during the tournament, Rice is now firmly established as the man expected to lead the Three Lions onto the pitch.

    FIFA is introducing a new pre-match ceremony for the 2026 World Cup aimed at making the experience more exciting and engaging for fans. The ceremony will feature music from the official World Cup album and transform the entire stadium into part of the spectacle through a 360-degree presentation that can be enjoyed from every section of the venue.

    Also, giant national flags and special on-pitch displays designed to bring supporters closer to the action will be included, and this, the global football governing body said, is aimed at strengthening the connection between players and fans before kick-off.

    This will mark a shift from the traditional way of players lining up ahead of a kickoff on the field.

    Under the redesigned pre-match ceremony system, players will walk onto the pitch alongside youth programme escorts through a special arch positioned near their team tunnel. The ceremony will also feature several visual displays, including a large banner at the centre circle, handheld national flags and prominent FIFA branding across the field.

    In a notable change, all players named in the matchday squad, not just the starting eleven, will gather around the centre-circle banner during the national anthems. FIFA says this will allow every squad member to share in the pride and emotion of representing their country on football’s biggest stage.

    “As the FIFA World Cup grows, we continue to innovate the way the game is experienced”, said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Having all players and referees face each other in the centre circle during the national anthems will create a moment of unity, pride and emotion that truly belongs to the teams and to everyone in the stadium. The FIFA World Cup is about every player and every fan, and this new pre-match ceremony reflects that”, FIFA officially announced on Thursday, June 4, 2026, through a media release from its headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, and simultaneous press briefings in Los Angeles, USA.

    After the anthems, the traditional pre-match rituals, including the handshakes and team photos of the starting line-ups and then the captains will come up for the coin toss.

    Later in the tournament, the pre-match ceremony will incorporate additional elements such as coloured smoke or pyrotechnics. Furthermore, the youth programme and players’ tunnel will feature both traditional and new integrations of FIFA’s Commercial Partners, thanks to the involvement of adidas, Coca-Cola, Kia, Mengniu, Qatar Airways and Quaker.

    The FIFA World Cup scheduled for June-July 2026 is set to see approximately five to ten million people in attendance, as announced by the president of the football governing body, Gianni Infantino.

    Speaking at a joint press briefing with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington, D.C., on 17 November, he noted that the tournament is expected to attract millions of people across the three countries set to host the games next year.

    “Millions of fans will be coming. One of the things I’ve observed in America is that the stadiums here are really built for people to have fun, to enjoy, to spend time. They don’t just watch the game and leave — they stay for hours, and I think that’s exactly what we need. We need occasions that bring people together from all over the world.”

    The USA is giving priority access to fans, the White House has announced.

    People from all over the World will travel to support their countries. Consequently, the White House has announced that fans set to travel for the tournament to the USA will be given the FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System (Pass), given that most of the matches will be played there.

    The FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) is a special visa‑interview scheduling program created by the U.S. government and FIFA for the 2026 World Cup. It gives ticket holders priority access to U.S. visa appointments, ensuring fans can travel to matches in North America despite existing visa backlogs.

  • Phase one of Beverly Afaglo’s funeral to be held in USA on August 1 – Family

    Phase one of Beverly Afaglo’s funeral to be held in USA on August 1 – Family

    The funeral of Ghanaian actress and entrepreneur Beverly Afaglo is scheduled to take place in the United States (USA) Laurel, Maryland, on August 1, her family has announced.

    They announced the arrangements during her one-week memorial service on May 30, in Tema and later clarified that the rites will not be held only in the US but also in Ghana, with Ghana’s slated for August 7, 7 August at Lashibi Funeral Home, Greater Accra Region.

    According to the family, the Maryland ceremony is expected to host close relatives and members of the diaspora community.

    The second and final phase of the funeral is scheduled to be held in Ghana on August 7, 2026, where the wider family, friends, and the public will participate in the concluding traditional ceremonies.

    Why the USA?

    According to the family, Beverly’s immediate relatives include her husband, Eugene Kwadwo Boadu Baah, popularly known as Choirmaster, a Ghanaian musician and former member of the music group Praye. Eugene, along with her sisters, is based in the country, making it culturally appropriate for mourning to begin within that community before the final burial rites in Ghana.

    It is a common practice among members of the African diaspora to hold portions of funeral ceremonies abroad, allowing friends and loved ones who reside outside their home countries to participate in mourning and celebration of life.

    Further details on the Ghana-based funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family in the coming days.

    Death of Beverly

    Beverly died on May. Afaglo died in Ghana on Sunday, 24 May, at the International Maritime Hospital in Tema after a two‑year battle with cancer. Her family and husband, musician Eugene Baah (Choirmaster), confirmed the news publicly the same day.

    About her cancer battle

    Her manager, Abu Iddris, disclosed during an interview with Ghana Weekend on Sunday, May 24, that,

    “She’s been battling cancer for two years. It’s been a relentless war. She really fought hard, and this is where it ended,” he said.

    He detailed that she had been checking occasionally due to her family history with cancer, as she lost her sister and father to same disease.

    After some time, she developed breast cancer, which later spread to other parts of her body due to its genetic nature.

    Her death was announced by her husband, in a social media post on Sunday, May 24, 2026. She was 42 years old.

    Iddris disclosed that despite her deteriorating condition, Beverly remained committed to her career and family, even while undergoing treatment.

    “In fact, we shot things for her while she was undergoing treatment. The premieres, the promotions, she was undergoing treatment. She lived while doing her very best until the cancer really overtook her,” he stated.

    He further revealed that Beverly had travelled to the United States for treatment and was advised to remain there because of the advanced medical care available, but she chose to return to Ghana to spend time with her children.

    “She chose to come be with her kids, knowing the situation. This is the kind of person she is. She chose to come see her kids and spend the last days with them at a cost,” he added.

  • Metro Mass to receive 100 new buses in August – Transport Minister

    Metro Mass to receive 100 new buses in August – Transport Minister

    State transport is set for a major boost as the government has announced the addition of new buses to the Metro Mass Transit fleet.

    This was confirmed by the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, during an interview with Citi TV’s Bernard Avle on the Citi Breakfast Show on Monday, June 8, where he discussed the state of the country’s transport system.

    “We know the difficulties that we are experiencing with transportation, but we are very certain that the next 100 MMT buses will come in within the next two months,” he noted.

    He also mentioned that more State Transport Company (STC)  buses will be added to the old fleet to boost transport nationwide.

    “…STC will also have 140 buses, and we will be able to have more high-occupancy buses”.

    This, he said, forms part of the government’s efforts to improve public transportation and address the growing challenges facing commuters and long-distance travellers across the country at a time when concerns have heightened over the availability, reliability, and convenience of public transportation, particularly as demand for intercity travel continues to rise

    His remarks also sought to address concerns surrounding the deployment of the 100 Metro Mass Transit (MMT) buses commissioned earlier this year.

    According to the Minister, the government’s transport expansion agenda goes beyond the recently commissioned MMT buses and includes a significant investment in the State Transport Company to enhance intercity transportation services.

    Meanwhile, last year, the government announced that the Inter-City STC Coaches Limited (STC) is moving to reclaim a bungalow and parcel of land in Kumasi that was leased to a private individual for 50 years.

    The property, located on prime land within the Oforikrom Municipality, was originally used to accommodate STC guests and visiting officers as a cost-saving measure for the company.

    However, the facility was later abandoned and subsequently leased to a hotel owner under an agreement that involved demolishing the bungalow and redeveloping the site into a hotel.

    Following a recent inspection of the premises, STC’s Deputy Managing Director, Nuru Hamidan, expressed disappointment over how the property was handled by the previous administration, describing the situation as unsatisfactory in an interview with Adom News.

    “The past administration gave the entire structure for a 50-year rent to redevelop it into a hotel,” he said, emphasising that the STC’s mandate is to run transport services, not to give away government properties on rent.

    Nuru Hamidan noted that negotiations are currently underway with the private individual to reclaim the property so it can once again serve its original purpose.

    He further revealed that approximately two-thirds of STC’s 22.68-acre land in Kumasi has been encroached upon, with both permanent and temporary structures springing up on the site.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama announced that five billion Ghana cedis (GH¢5 billion) will be allocated annually for road maintenance.

    According to him, 166 constituencies identified as having some of the country’s worst roads have been earmarked to receive 10 kilometres of roads, drains, and pavements annually over the next four years.

    Speaking during the official launch of the government’s flagship infrastructure development initiative, the Big Push Programme, at Afienya on Tuesday, September 16, President Mahama explained that this would provide each constituency with 40 kilometres of roads by the end of the period.

    He added that the initiative would not only focus on new road construction but would also ensure the proper maintenance of existing roads.

    “So every year, the Ghana Road Fund is going to put aside about five billion cedis a year for road maintenance alone, pothole patching, desilting, grass cutting, and all the things that keep the roads in good shape,” he said.

    He added that while some communities might not find their roads listed under the Big Push Programme, there was a separate allocation for ongoing road works across the country.

    He assured traditional rulers, farmers, and citizens that these funds would continue to improve roads not captured under the new initiative.

    According to him, beginning next year and through to 2027, Ghanaians would notice a significant improvement in the quality of roads nationwide.

    Parliament, on July 30, unanimously endorsed the government’s proposal to channel all royalties received from oil revenues and mineral resources towards the implementation of the Big Push Programme.

  • Govt to receive 140 new STC buses in two months to improve transport services – Ministe

    Govt to receive 140 new STC buses in two months to improve transport services – Ministe

    The government is set to deliver 140 new buses to the State Transport Company (STC) within the next two months, the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has announced.

    This, he said, forms part of the government’s efforts to improve public transportation and address the growing challenges facing commuters and long-distance travellers across the country at a time when concerns have heightened over the availability, reliability, and convenience of public transportation, particularly as demand for intercity travel continues to rise.

    During an interview with Citi TV’s  Bernard Avle on Monday, June 8, on the Breakfast Show, the Transport Minister indicated that,

    “…STC will also have 140 buses, and we will be able to have more high-occupancy buses”.

    He acknowledged that the government is aware of the difficulties that citizens are experiencing with transport nationwide; hence, not only will the government provide STC buses, but 100 more Metro Mass Transport buses will also be delivered.

    “We know the difficulties that we are experiencing with transportation, but we are very certain that the next 100 MMT buses will come in within the next two months,” he added.

    His remarks also sought to address concerns surrounding the deployment of the 100 Metro Mass Transit (MMT) buses commissioned earlier this year.

    According to the Minister, the government’s transport expansion agenda goes beyond the recently commissioned MMT buses and includes a significant investment in the State Transport Company to enhance intercity transportation services.

    Meanwhile, last year, the government announced that the Inter-City STC Coaches Limited (STC) is moving to reclaim a bungalow and parcel of land in Kumasi that was leased to a private individual for 50 years.

    The property, located on prime land within the Oforikrom Municipality, was originally used to accommodate STC guests and visiting officers as a cost-saving measure for the company.

    However, the facility was later abandoned and subsequently leased to a hotel owner under an agreement that involved demolishing the bungalow and redeveloping the site into a hotel.

    Following a recent inspection of the premises, STC’s Deputy Managing Director, Nuru Hamidan, expressed disappointment over how the property was handled by the previous administration, describing the situation as unsatisfactory in an interview with Adom News.

    “The past administration gave the entire structure for a 50-year rent to redevelop it into a hotel,” he said, emphasising that the STC’s mandate is to run transport services, not to give away government properties on rent.

    Nuru Hamidan noted that negotiations are currently underway with the private individual to reclaim the property so it can once again serve its original purpose.

    He further revealed that approximately two-thirds of STC’s 22.68-acre land in Kumasi has been encroached upon, with both permanent and temporary structures springing up on the site.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama announced that five billion Ghana cedis (GH¢5 billion) will be allocated annually for road maintenance.

    According to him, 166 constituencies identified as having some of the country’s worst roads have been earmarked to receive 10 kilometres of roads, drains, and pavements annually over the next four years.

    Speaking during the official launch of the government’s flagship infrastructure development initiative, the Big Push Programme, at Afienya on Tuesday, September 16, President Mahama explained that this would provide each constituency with 40 kilometres of roads by the end of the period.

    He added that the initiative would not only focus on new road construction but would also ensure the proper maintenance of existing roads.

    “So every year, the Ghana Road Fund is going to put aside about five billion cedis a year for road maintenance alone, pothole patching, desilting, grass cutting, and all the things that keep the roads in good shape,” he said.

    He added that while some communities might not find their roads listed under the Big Push Programme, there was a separate allocation for ongoing road works across the country.

    He assured traditional rulers, farmers, and citizens that these funds would continue to improve roads not captured under the new initiative.

    According to him, beginning next year and through to 2027, Ghanaians would notice a significant improvement in the quality of roads nationwide.

    Parliament, on July 30, unanimously endorsed the government’s proposal to channel all royalties received from oil revenues and mineral resources towards the implementation of the Big Push Programme.

    This followed the government’s request for Parliament to approve the commitment of funds to support the construction of selected road projects. Presenting the report of the Joint Budget and Finance Committee to the House, Chairman of the Finance Committee, Isaac Adongo, said: “The Committee has carefully considered the referral and thinks that the request is in the right direction.”

  • Sale of single cigarettes sticks is illegal – FDA warns retailers

    Sale of single cigarettes sticks is illegal – FDA warns retailers

    It is illegal to sell single sticks of cigarettes, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has revealed.

    During an interview with the Ghana News Agency, the Acting Regional Head of the FDA, Abel Ndego of the Upper East Regional Office, explained that by law, cigarettes are supposed to be sold in sealed packs.

    This, he explained, is to inform consumers of the potential health hazards associated with the product.

    “Per the provisions of the law, it is illegal to sell single sticks of cigarettes to any person. A single stick does not provide enough space for us to display legible warning signs. Cigarettes are therefore required to be sold in packs, which carry the approved health warnings,” he noted.


    In Ghana, cigarette sales are regulated under the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851) and the Tobacco Control Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2247), which require that cigarettes be sold only in sealed packages containing at least 10 sticks. Selling single cigarette sticks is explicitly prohibited.


    Also, Mr Ndego indicated that all registered cigarette brands were required to display pictorial health warnings on their packaging.

    “We have realised that written inscriptions alone do not effectively communicate the dangers of tobacco use. When people see actual images of damaged lungs, rotten teeth, cancerous lips, and other tobacco-related health conditions, they are better able to appreciate the risks associated with smoking,” he said.

    He went on to remind retailers and shop owners that the sale of single sticks of cigarettes remains illegal in Ghana, expressing concern about the increasing influx of unregistered tobacco products into the region through porous borders.

    “Because of the porosity of our borders, some recalcitrant individuals take advantage of the situation to smuggle unregistered tobacco products into the region,” he stated.

    Consequently, the acting regional head warned that his outfit is collaborating with security agencies to combat the practice and prevent the circulation of unregistered tobacco products.

    Among such measures are routine patrols and inspections by the Authority’s enforcement teams to ensure that unregistered tobacco products are prevented from entering the markets.

    Mr. Ndego noted that routine inspections and stakeholder engagements had contributed to a high level of compliance with tobacco regulations in the region and called for continued public support to help achieve a tobacco-free society.

    “Through sustained enforcement and regulatory measures, we have achieved a significant level of compliance. I can confidently say that the region is recording very good compliance with tobacco control regulations,” he said.

  • FIFA redesigns World Cup pre-match rituals to boost fan engagement

    FIFA redesigns World Cup pre-match rituals to boost fan engagement

    FIFA is introducing a new pre-match ceremony for the 2026 World Cup aimed at making the experience more exciting and engaging for fans. The ceremony will feature music from the official World Cup album and transform the entire stadium into part of the spectacle through a 360-degree presentation that can be enjoyed from every section of the venue.

    Also, giant national flags and special on-pitch displays designed to bring supporters closer to the action will be included, and this, the global football governing body said, is aimed at strengthening the connection between players and fans before kick-off.

    This will mark a shift from the traditional way of players lining up ahead of a kickoff on the field.

    Under the redesigned pre-match ceremony system, players will walk onto the pitch alongside youth programme escorts through a special arch positioned near their team tunnel. The ceremony will also feature several visual displays, including a large banner at the centre circle, handheld national flags and prominent FIFA branding across the field.

    In a notable change, all players named in the matchday squad, not just the starting eleven, will gather around the centre-circle banner during the national anthems. FIFA says this will allow every squad member to share in the pride and emotion of representing their country on football’s biggest stage.

    “As the FIFA World Cup grows, we continue to innovate the way the game is experienced”, said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Having all players and referees face each other in the centre circle during the national anthems will create a moment of unity, pride and emotion that truly belongs to the teams and to everyone in the stadium. The FIFA World Cup is about every player and every fan, and this new pre-match ceremony reflects that”, FIFA officially announced on Thursday, June 4, 2026, through a media release from its headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, and simultaneous press briefings in Los Angeles, USA.

    After the anthems, the traditional pre-match rituals, including the handshakes and team photos of the starting line-ups and then the captains will come up for the coin toss.

    Later in the tournament, the pre-match ceremony will incorporate additional elements such as coloured smoke or pyrotechnics. Furthermore, the youth programme and players’ tunnel will feature both traditional and new integrations of FIFA’s Commercial Partners, thanks to the involvement of adidas, Coca-Cola, Kia, Mengniu, Qatar Airways and Quaker.

    The FIFA World Cup scheduled for June-July 2026 is set to see approximately five to ten million people in attendance, as announced by the president of the football governing body, Gianni Infantino.

    Speaking at a joint press briefing with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington, D.C., on 17 November, he noted that the tournament is expected to attract millions of people across the three countries set to host the games next year.

    “Millions of fans will be coming. One of the things I’ve observed in America is that the stadiums here are really built for people to have fun, to enjoy, to spend time. They don’t just watch the game and leave — they stay for hours, and I think that’s exactly what we need. We need occasions that bring people together from all over the world.”

    The USA is giving priority access to fans, the White House has announced.

    People from all over the World will travel to support their countries. Consequently, the White House has announced that fans set to travel for the tournament to the USA will be given the FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System (Pass), given that most of the matches will be played there.

    The FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) is a special visa‑interview scheduling program created by the U.S. government and FIFA for the 2026 World Cup. It gives ticket holders priority access to U.S. visa appointments, ensuring fans can travel to matches in North America despite existing visa backlogs.

    Speaking during a joint press briefing with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the White House in Washington, D.C., on 17 November, President Donald Trump mentioned that “I’ve directed my administration to do everything within their power to make the 2026 World Cup an unprecedented success.”

    Detailing how the ‘World’ will gain access into the US, the Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that ticket-holders for the tournament, set for next June and July in the US, Canada and Mexico, will not be automatically granted a tourist visa.

    But foreign nationals with tickets to World Cup football matches could get an interview at an embassy or consulate within six to eight weeks of applying, Rubio said.

    “Your ticket is not a visa; it doesn’t guarantee admission to the US. We’re going to do the same vetting as anybody else would get. The only difference here is we’re moving them up in the queue,” the Secretary noted.

    The FIFA president also noted that “With this FIFA Pass, we can make sure that those who buy a ticket, who are legitimate football fans or soccer fans, can come and attend the World Cup in the best conditions, starting from getting their visa”.

    The announcement of priority visa appointments has been welcomed by many, including the US Travel Association, a tourism industry trade group. “The expedited process for FIFA ticket-holders adds needed efficiency without sacrificing security. This is the kind of practical action that strengthens security, increases capacity and cuts wait times, putting the U.S. on a stronger footing to welcome millions of visitors next year,” the group’s CEO, Geoff Freeman, said in a statement.

    The announcement comes after citizens of countries that have already booked their place at the tournament have long wait times for visa appointments.

  • Black Stars arrive in US ahead of World Cup

    Black Stars arrive in US ahead of World Cup

    The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed that the Black Stars have arrived in the USA ahead of the 2026 World Cup. 

    Their first fixture is in about 12 days, against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada. 

    Kick‑off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. local time (Toronto), which corresponds to 10:00 p.m. GMT in Ghana.

    The Black Stars left Wales on Wednesday after their pre-World Cup friendly in Cardiff and are set to camp at Bryant University in Providence, Rhode Island.

    The team received a rousing welcome from fans, with players taking pictures and signing autographs upon arrival.

    The draw against Wales on Tuesday night was Ghana’s first positive result since October 2025, ending a run of four consecutive defeats during the November and March international windows.

    The Black Stars are expected to face Jamaica on June 10 in their final warm-up match before opening their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17.

    Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama as they chase a first World Cup knockout-stage qualification since the 2010 tournament.

    Black Stars supporters
    Black Stars supporters

    Each Black Stars player is to be paid a $100,000 appearance fee

    Ghana’s Sports Minister has confirmed that the Black Stars will receive a $100,000 appearance fee for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    He disclosed this during a live TV3 Hot Issues interview on Sunday, May 31. According to him, there were suggestions of a possible increase linked to the cedi’s appreciation against the dollar.

    “The appearance fee for the Black Stars players has been pegged at $100,000 per player. Some said that because the cedi had become stronger, we should increase it, but we said no. Because if the cedi had become weaker, would you have said that we should reduce the dollar (equivalent) so it gives you the same cedi amount? You would not say so.”

    The practice of paying appearance fees is as old as Ghana’s participation in the World Cup, with Ghana pegging the appearance fee at $100,000, in the last sixteen years

    Since 2010, however, the appearance fees have been pegged at $100,000, and per the Minister’s comments, the current group will also benefit.

    On players currently camping for the June 2 fixture against Wales as a preparatory game ahead of the tournament,he indicated that 28 players are currently in Ghana’s pre-tournament camp in Wales, with 26 slots up for grabs.

    Two of the 28 players will be dropped before Ghana confirms the final 26-man squad on Monday, June 1, 2026.

    On Saturday, Thomas Partey and Inaki Williams joined their teammates as the Black Stars prepared for their first pre-World Cup friendly against Wales.

    Final list for World Cup

    Ghana’s head coach has released the final squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) published the squad list on its official website and social media platforms.

    Goalkeepers Paul Reverson and Solomon Agbasi have been omitted from the initial 28-man provisional squad, while vice-captain Alexander Djiku misses out through injury and is replaced by Derrick Luckassen.

    Here is the full squad:

    Goalkeepers

    Benjamin AsareLawrence Ati-ZigiJoseph Anang

    Defenders

    Baba Abdul RahmanGideon MensahMarvin SenayaAlidu SeiduAbdul MuminJerome OpokuJonas AdjeteyKojo Oppong Nkrumah PreprahDerrick Luckassen

    Midfielders

    Thomas ParteyElisha OwusuKwasi SiboAugustine BoakyeCaleb YirenkyiAbdul Fatawu Issahaku, Kamaldeen Sulemana

    Forwards

    Jordan AyewAntoine SemenyoInaki WilliamsErnest NuamahChristopher Bonsu Baah, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Prince Kwabena Adu

  • AMA announces June 7 for “Operation Free Choked Drains” amid flooding in Accra 

    AMA announces June 7 for “Operation Free Choked Drains” amid flooding in Accra 

    Amid the increasing incidents of flooding in Accra and their devastating consequences, including the loss of lives and property, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has designated the June edition of the National Sanitation Day clean-up exercise, scheduled for Saturday, June 6, as “Operation Free Choked Gutters.”

    This comes shortly after a building caved in on some individuals including a mother of two who lost her life while trying to save her children at Adenta following a heavy downpour on Wednesday June 3.

    Consequently, the usual monthly routine of general cleaning at the market center is set to focus on distilling gutters this Saturday. 

    “The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) wishes to inform the general public that the June edition of the National Sanitation Day clean-up exercise will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, with activities focusing on the desilting of drains, sweeping public spaces and evacuation of refuse.

    The exercise dubbed “Operation free choked drains” will take place across all sub-metros, electoral areas, markets, lorry parks, communities, business districts and other public spaces within the metropolis as part of the Assembly’s sustained efforts to improve environmental sanitation, protect public health, prevent flooding and promote collective responsibility for keeping Accra clean, especially as the rainy season intensifies’” the Authority said in a formal statement issued on Thursday, June 4.

    To ensure compliance and participation among traders, 

    “no trading activity will be permitted during the clean-up period. All shops, stalls, table-top businesses and hawking activities are expected to remain suspended until the exercise is completed”.

    Activities of the day

    AMA indicated that “Activities to be carried out during the exercise will include desilting and clearing of drains, removal of refuse from market areas and public spaces, clearing of choked waterways, sweeping of streets, clearing of road curbs and general cleaning of communities, markets, streets, lanes and drains”’ linking poor sanitation practices to free flow of water which leads to these fatal flooding in the Metropolis.

    “The AMA notes that choked drains, silted gutters, indiscriminate dumping of refuse and other poor sanitation practices continue to obstruct the free flow of water during rainfall, contributing to flooding in parts of the metropolis, hence the focus on desilting drains and clearing waterways”, the statement added.

    All are invited to partake in the exercise 

    AMA extended an invitation to all stakeholders including 

    “residents, traders, shop owners, transport operators, food vendors, corporate institutions, organisations, NGOs, religious bodies, youth groups, community-based organisations and other stakeholders come out in their numbers and actively participate in the exercise, while ensuring that their immediate surroundings are kept clean”.

    Penalty for non-compliance 

    The AMA wishes to stress that enforcement will be a key component of the exercise, and persons who fail to participate, obstruct the exercise or engage in trading activities during the clean-up period will be arrested, fined, prosecuted before the sanitation court, or sanctioned in accordance with the relevant bye-laws.

    Preventing flooding in Accra is a shared responsibility. While the Assembly continues to undertake major sanitation and drainage improvement interventions, residents, businesses, and institutions also have a duty to stop dumping refuse into drains, open spaces and waterways.

    Exercise expected to happen in other areas 

    Assembly Members are also expected to lead clean-up exercises in their respective electoral areas to ensure effective coordination, community mobilisation and active participation at the local level.

    The AMA reminds the public that dumping refuse into drains, leaving waste in open spaces and failing to clean frontage areas contribute significantly to flooding, environmental pollution and the spread of diseases. The Assembly will therefore continue to intensify public education, monitoring and enforcement of its sanitation bye-laws to ensure compliance.

  • KATH A&E congestion: KADA, GMA defends CEO, describes Health Minister’s query as knee-jerk  

    KATH A&E congestion: KADA, GMA defends CEO, describes Health Minister’s query as knee-jerk  

    On Wednesday, June 3, the Health Ministry summoned the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Dr Paa Kwesi Baidoo, over a notice of congestion at the hospital’s Accident and Emergency (A&E) Centre, which has led to a growing number of referrals from other medical facilities.

    However, following widespread reports of the situation, the Health Ministry issued a query to the CEO of the Kumasi-based health facility to explain what it described as an attempt to disregard the President’s directive to hospitals not to turn away emergency cases.

    In response to the Health Ministry’s query to the KATH CEO, the Komfo Anokye Doctors’ Association (KADA), in a rejoinder dated June 4, defended the CEO, describing the move as knee-jerk.

    The Association urged authorities to focus on addressing the systemic challenges confronting the hospital rather than assigning blame.

    “We are therefore concerned that the issuance of a query to the Chief Executive Officer appears to be a knee-jerk response to a crisis rather than addressing the underlying systemic challenges that precipitated the situation,” parts of the statement read.

    The Association dismissed claims that patients were denied treatment, stating that management’s decision to redirect some cases through other health facilities was necessary to prevent overcrowding and avoid risking patients’ lives.

    “Allowing more patients into an already overstretched emergency facility would have compromised quality care and endangered lives.

    “Management’s decision to liaise with nearby hospitals and temporarily redirect patients was a responsible measure aimed at ensuring patient safety and continuity of care, rather than a refusal to provide healthcare services,” the statement added.

    Consequently, KADA urged that efforts to protect patient safety deserve recognition and called on authorities to avoid making premature judgments without a proper review of available reports.

    “The healthcare professionals of KATH believe that leaders who take difficult but necessary decisions in the interest of patient safety should be supported and engaged constructively rather than publicly subjected to disciplinary processes without a comprehensive review of the prevailing circumstances,” the statement continued.

    The Association also highlighted what it described as a gap in healthcare infrastructure development between the Ashanti Region and Greater Accra, noting that inadequate investment in health facilities within the region has contributed to mounting pressure on KATH.

    To address the challenge, KADA called on the Ministry of Health to fast-track the operationalisation of the Afari Military Hospital, the Sewua Hospital, and other strategically located facilities to ease the burden on KATH and improve healthcare delivery across the region.

    “We are deeply concerned about the widening gap in healthcare infrastructure development between the Ashanti Region and Greater Accra. Inadequate investment in health facilities within our region has contributed to mounting pressure on Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

    “We call on the Ministry of Health to fast-track the operationalisation of the Afari Military Hospital, the Sewua Hospital, and other strategically located facilities to ease the burden on KATH and improve healthcare delivery across the region,” KADA expressed its concerns.

    The Association reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and patient safety and pledged to work with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the hospital’s capacity challenges.

    GMA on the KATH CEO case

    The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) have added their voice to the KATH CEO’s query issued by the Health Ministry.

    According to the Association, it has engaged some staff from the A7E and can confirm that the widely reported narrative of the hospital turning patients away due to congestion. In a statement issued on June 4, 

    “Following engagements with the management of KATH, discussions with some staff of the Accident and Emergency Centre, and a review of the explanations provided by the Medical Director of the Hospital in media interviews, it does not appear that the Hospital turned away emergency patients.

    Rather, the temporary measures announced by Management were intended to support the appropriate redistribution of patients to peripheral health facilities within the region while the Hospital addressed significant congestion and capacity constraints at its Accident and Emergency Centre. A review of the minutes of the meeting held on June 2, 2026, by the Regional Health Directorate, suggests that there were deliberate and agreed actions outlined to mitigate the congestion situation at KΑΤΗ,” the Association stated.

  • Plastic ban in Ghana may be difficult without proper public education, stakeholder engagement – EPA

    Plastic ban in Ghana may be difficult without proper public education, stakeholder engagement – EPA

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Ghana on May 25 announced an imminent ban on all polystyrene products in the country, effective January 2027.

    The ban will cover widely used items such as styrofoam takeaway food containers, disposable foam cups, disposable foam plates and bowls, foam packaging used for electronics and appliances, and other expanded polystyrene (EPS) products.

    Despite the proposed ban, the environmental regulator has expressed that it may be difficult to implement the ban as planned if the public is not well educated on the need for it and there is no extensive engagement with stakeholders, including manufacturers, importers, food vendors, retailers, waste management firms, consumers, and relevant government agencies, before the ban can be effectively implemented and enforced.

    Speaking on Pulse on JoyNews, the Deputy Director of the Human Settlement Unit at the EPA, Joy Hesse Ankomah, said tackling plastic pollution is a complex challenge that extends beyond Ghana and requires coordinated action at both the national and global levels.

    “A lot of education has to start, and a lot of strategies have to be put in place. This is a global fight and not just a Ghanaian fight,” the official stated.

    Stressing that strategies to deal with these polystyrene materials in Ghana had been adopted for years, she noted that implementation and enforcement had been a challenge due to a lack of the necessary policy backing from government.

    “The whole strategy was put in place, but we needed the policy backing, basically from the government,” the official said.

    She noted that changes in government over the years contributed to delays in advancing the policy.

    “As you know, 11 years ago, there were changes in government. Everybody comes and we have to re-look at it,” she added, also citing the incumbent government’s position on polystyrene products.

    “Until last year, when the President gave us the green light to start with that of the polystyrene products,” she said.

    The official disclosed that following a meeting with stakeholders, January 1, 2027, has been proposed as the date for the policy to take effect.

    She stressed that technical experts have had to carefully assess the implications of the proposed ban before implementation.

    “It was a process. Technical people were still working on it because there are global implications, trade implications, economic implications, and other health-related implications,” she explained.

    The President of the Plastic Manufacturers Association of Ghana, Ebbo Botwe, after the government announced plans to ban styrofoam, called on President John Dramani Mahama to hold broader consultations with the industry before enacting a ban on Styrofoam in Ghana.

    On Thursday, June 6, President John Dramani Mahama revealed the government’s plans to halt the importation and production of Styrofoam, locally known as “takeaway packs.”

    The initiative, he said, is aimed at reducing the impact of climate change, protecting the country’s forest cover, and reducing plastic waste in the country.

    President Mahama stressed the urgent need to ditch Styrofoam for other materials, describing it as one of the most harmful pollutants.

    “One of the most polluting is Styrofoam plastics, where you go and buy your food, and they put it in that whitish something, and you finish eating, you just dump it. That is one of the biggest polluters. And so, we’re going to ban the importation of Styrofoam plastics.

    “We have to use paper packaging or aluminium foil for our food. I’m informing the manufacturers and importers of Styrofoam that the Ministry of Environment will soon ban the importation and production of Styrofoam in Ghana,” he said.

    However, the Plastic Manufacturers Association of Ghana has acknowledged its environmental impact but maintains that there are many misconceptions surrounding Styrofoam.

    He noted that the policy must go through a thorough process to ensure it does not have significant consequences for manufacturers, workers, and consumers.

    “Let me try to clear up some misconceptions. The styrofoam that you see contains between 4% to 5% maximum plastic. The rest is air. It is basically air. It becomes more of an eyesore in terms of its impact on the environment. We have a meeting with the Minister for Environment between June 16 and 20. We really want to give the Minister a proper overview of the plastic industry so that when the government wants to initiate any programme or decision, he will be well informed,” he said.

    The Ghanaian government has introduced various initiatives aimed at tackling plastic waste.

    Although the government has made several attempts to address the sanitation crisis in Greater Accra, many of these initiatives have failed to achieve lasting impact.

    These efforts started in 2008 with a ban on plastic production and imports.

    In 2011, a Plastic Waste Recycling Fund was established, and a 10% Environmental Excise Tax was levied on imported plastics to support recycling and waste management programmes.

    The government also introduced the National Plastics Management Policy in 2020, which seeks to manage plastic waste across its entire lifecycle and promote a circular economy for plastics.

    Despite these measures, the issue of proper plastic waste disposal remains a significant challenge, exacerbated by low awareness of safe and sustainable disposal practices such as segregation, recycling, and controlled incineration.

  • UTAG-KNUST rejects GTEC’s promotion harmonisation plan, citing structural challenges in universities

    UTAG-KNUST rejects GTEC’s promotion harmonisation plan, citing structural challenges in universities

    The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has rejected the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) proposal to make the rules for promoting lecturers and other senior academic staff uniform across all public universities.

    In late May 2026, GTEC, through a formal letter circulated to university councils and the Ministry of Education, argued that there were disparities in promotion standards among universities, which they believe should be corrected with uniform criteria.

    However, in a formal letter addressed to the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, through the UTAG National Secretariat in Accra on Thursday, June 4, the association described the proposal as “unconvincing and insufficiently grounded”.

    According to them, there are more pressing issues that need to be addressed and sorted before any further concerns, such as this, could be considered, labelling it as a policy of inadequate stakeholder consultation.

    “The rationale provided by GTEC is unconvincing and insufficiently grounded. We cannot accept harmonisation of promotion guidelines without addressing the broader structural challenges facing our universities,” parts of the statement read.

    The Association went on to question GTEC’s claims of disparities among academic staff, saying that:

    “We respectfully ask whether academic staff are the only category of university personnel for whom disparities exist? Public universities were established with distinct mandates, governance structures, and academic cultures.”

    UTAG-KNUST believes that “standardising promotion criteria risks undermining autonomy and disregards the uniqueness that defines each institution’s academic identity.”

    The association also urged GTEC to focus on addressing broader challenges confronting the tertiary education sector, including inadequate staffing, poor student-to-teacher ratios, limited laboratory infrastructure, and other conditions affecting teaching and learning.

    “We urge GTEC to focus instead on the classification and tiering of universities, and on resolving disparities in staffing, infrastructure, and teaching conditions, which are far more pressing,” they added.

    It further called for greater attention to the classification or tiering of Ghana’s higher education system, arguing that such reforms would have a more meaningful impact than what it described as peripheral interventions targeting promotion procedures.

    The association cited challenges facing under-resourced institutions such as the University of Environment and Sustainable Development and urged the Commission to prioritise strengthening capacity across universities instead of enforcing uniform standards.

    UTAG-KNUST further indicated that its members would be unwilling to support the implementation of the proposed framework unless significant disparities in staffing levels and infrastructure among public universities are addressed.

    The association maintained that existing governance structures already provide adequate autonomy to university councils and argued that the current promotion system is functioning effectively.

    “The system is not broken and therefore does not require this form of intervention. Unless these fundamental issues are addressed, our members will be unwilling to cooperate with management in implementing the proposed framework,” the association stated.

    Meanwhile, not very long ago, the government was given a 14-day ultimatum by the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) to dismiss the Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, and his deputy, Prof. Augustine Ocloo, from office, citing what it describes as a coercive administrative style.

    This was contained in a petition addressed to President John Dramani Mahama in a press briefing held yesterday, Monday, April 13.

    UTAG accused GTEC’s leadership of regulatory overreach, issuing unilateral directives, and adopting what it describes as a coercive administrative style.

    “UTAG respectfully calls on the President for the following reliefs: the Director-General and Deputy Director-General of GTEC must be relieved of their current roles to restore confidence in the tertiary education sector and reset regulatory posture.

    “Government must urgently operationalise the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023) through a clear and unambiguous Legislative Instrument (LI), including mandatory consultative rule-making, clear limits on interference in internal governance, and a transparent appeals mechanism against regulatory decisions.

    “GTEC circulars dated 30 September 2025 and 1 October 2025 should be withdrawn with immediate effect and subjected to structured stakeholder consultation and harmonisation with existing legal frameworks and negotiated conditions of service,” UTAG National President, Prof. Vera Fiador, said.

    Prof. Vera noted that a circular released by GTEC on September 30, 2025, discredited some tertiary institutions and blocked admissions into unaccredited programmes, citing quality assurance issues.

    The President of the University of Ghana chapter of UTAG, Dr Jerry Joe Harrison, warned that the association may withdraw its services to GTEC or embark on industrial action if their demands are not met.

    “We have several tools at our disposal, including withdrawing all services that we render to GTEC. Of course, to the extreme, industrial disharmony can be activated because if members of UTAG are not happy doing the jobs they are supposed to do, there is no point remaining in the classroom. This issue we are talking about directly affects us, and the students we teach as well,” he said.

  • Carlos Queiroz remarks after Ghana’s draw in Wales friendly

    Carlos Queiroz remarks after Ghana’s draw in Wales friendly

    Ghana’s newly appointed head coach, Carlos Queiroz, managed his first match on Tuesday, June 2, where his side drew with Wales in a friendly.

    Caleb Yirenkyi came off the bench to score the opening goal in the 66th minute before Wales’ Lewis Koumas equalised in the 90+3rd minute.

    Wales dominated early, with Daniel James hitting the post and crossbar. Ghana struggled to create clear chances. Ghana improved after the break.

    After the game, Queiroz faced the media, speaking about his thoughts and the assessment of his team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    On the match vs Wales

    First of all, I think it was a very exciting and very good match. This was Wales’ goal — to bring this game as part of their 150-year celebration. I think the fans must be happy with the football they saw. Both teams tried to win. Very active.

    I’m very proud of my players. They gave everything to win the game. We let it slip in the last minutes. It was in our pocket. But this is also a time to learn. We don’t learn from the draw itself, but we learn that when we are winning 1-0, there is no way we can let it slip from our pocket. Unfortunately, it happens. We did good things. I was happy with the players and the performance. Some players were playing together for the first time. We must remember this was only the first full training session with the whole team together.

    Congratulations to my players. We just need to keep working hard. We are ready for the main match against Panama.

    On positives going into the World Cup

    We know that when our players have to make decisions, they could do it faster, more efficiently, and with more confidence — especially when we go forward and have opportunities to attack. Today, we still saw moments where they could go, but they lost a fraction of a second on the forward pass and we had to start everything again. With more training, more effort, and better chemistry, they will be more confident to make those decisions to go forward.

    On staying beyond the World Cup to win AFCON

    Let’s leave the future in God’s hands. The most important thing for us now is to focus on the World Cup. We have one major goal. We have to play one game with three parts of 90 minutes. Every part is 90 minutes — 90, 90, 90. At the end of 270 minutes, we must be guaranteed qualification for the second round. That is the main goal and the main priority.

    We have to play this 270-minute game — first half, second half, third half — and qualify. When we reach the second round, the show starts. That’s when it’s win or lose. That’s when the real World Cup starts: the knockout stage.

    On Caleb Yirenkyi playing in midfield

    He is a great player. He has a great future. He is still young and has a lot to learn. At this level, everything is so fast. Young players need talent and experience. I believe that with more experience, he can become one of the best players in the national team.

    On not having the full squad on time

    They only arrived from London yesterday after sorting out visa issues. We’ve been training with nine to eleven players, and only yesterday did we have one full training session. We assembled the team and I asked them to do a couple of simple things.

    On what pleased him most

    To be straightforward: what pleased me most was the way the players responded to my instructions and the game plan. They were excellent. They followed, respected, and trusted the plan. Just one example — the centre-backs cooperated very well. They were brilliant. They followed the basic rules: calm, confident. So, we have a good starting point. Two or three training sessions were decisive. With ten days of training next week, we will make a lot of progress. We will be much more consistent and efficient.

    On how the team defended

    That’s the name of the game, my friend. I’ve seen many great teams — from Bayern Munich to others — win with 70% possession. But the game is not about possession. The game is about the skill to put the ball in the net, defend your goal, and win the game. Some teams enjoy possession. Others play direct, create combinations, score, and win. This is a winning business. That’s it. They call it football, but at the end of the day, it’s a winning business. The way we win, I don’t care. I just want to win.

    If we have 80% possession and lose, I don’t care. I get mad if we attack 80% and lose. If we defend 80% –  quality defending, eyes on the ball, always looking to score — and we win, I’m happy. Because when I’m happy, it means the fans are happy, the people are happy, the country is happy.

    On playing for the fans

    We play to make them happy. If we don’t win, they’re not happy. We cannot be happy, no matter how attacking or beautiful we play, if we don’t win. Nobody cares about that. I’ve never seen books praising teams that play fantastic football but don’t get results.

    On Thomas Partey being booed

    I’m not surprised. We live in a weird world. I’m never tired of saying it. You should be concerned with how this modern world works — where anyone can say or do whatever they want with total impunity.

    Nobody should be judged or condemned before a court makes a decision. The presumption of innocence must apply to everyone, starting with you, the press. But you publish things before the court. That’s your problem. You are responsible for creating this culture of impunity.

    I hear barbaric things said about me, about players, about coaches. But I can’t shut myself off. It’s the modern world. I have to accept it. But honestly, I don’t like it. I have the right to say I don’t like it.

    I don’t like seeing this energy of impunity on social media and in the media — that you can do and say anything you want. That is the biggest challenge of the modern world, in my humble opinion. But that doesn’t sell newspapers, and you don’t care about that. You care about what sells newspapers.

    On work needed before Panama

    One brain is better than zero, two better than one, three better than two. As soon as we land in the United States, we want to do as much work as possible before the game against Panama.

    On playing another game before the World Cup

    Yes, we will play one more game in the United States before we face Panama.

    On being close to players

    I need to be close to them; they need to be close to me. We need straightforward cooperation — open mind, open heart — to improve and progress. It’s not time for big changes. It’s time to fine-tune what we’ve been doing well, to make them better. That’s my goal when we arrive: correct details and build the chemistry you saw today.

    On Wales

    They fight a lot. They are a very good team, very fit, and they move a lot. The boys were able to stop them. We knew how they start games. We were ready for the first 10 minutes. We knew after 10 minutes they would slow down. Our goal was to frustrate them, block passing lanes, not allow them to go forward. After that, the game was in our hands. If we go 2-0 up, the target is to manage the game.

    On Ghana not winning in last 7 attempts

    It’s a fact. We did our best to keep the result. We also have good qualities. With a little more experience and maturity, in the last minute and a half when we had a free kick in Wales’ area, if we were smarter and wiser, we could have put the ball into the box and not lost it. This is about game management.

    But credit to Wales too — it was a good attacking move. Quick ball, good cross, and our defensive positioning in the box wasn’t the best at that moment. It happens.

    You’re right, we did not win. We know that. We are the first ones unhappy because our wish was to start this journey with a win. But it’s also a challenge. To win, you have to score at least one goal. Today it didn’t happen. We have to admit it, accept it, and make it better.

  • Next batch of evacuees to arrive on June 7; High Commission issues travel guidelines to evacuees from South Africa

    Next batch of evacuees to arrive on June 7; High Commission issues travel guidelines to evacuees from South Africa

    The next batch of evacuees from South Africa is set to arrive in Ghana by Sunday, June 7, the Ghana High Commission in South Africa has announced under the ongoing voluntary evacuation programme amid the rising violent xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals.

    This comes barely a day after the Commission announced the temporary suspension of the repatriation registration exercise to allow it to complete the screening of the growing number of people who have currently registered for the voluntary repatriation.

    In a notice to Ghanaians in South Africa, the Commission released a list of registered evacuees who are set to be airlifted on Sunday to report to the Commission by Saturday, June 6, for briefing, verification and other pre-departure procedures.

    “All individuals scheduled for evacuation on Sunday, 7 June 2026, are required to report to the High Commission on the evening of Saturday, 6 June 2026, for pre-departure arrangements, verification, and briefing”, parts of the notice read.

    It also admonished that all persons on the list who have changed their minds about returning home should inform the consular by tomorrow, Thursday, June 4, to aid arrangements for other interested persons.

    “Individuals whose names appear on the approved evacuation list but no longer intend to travel are kindly requested to notify the High Commission no later than 12:00 noon on Thursday, 4 June 2026. This will enable other eligible applicants to be accommodated on the flight”, the notice added.

    Luggage requirements and guidelines for parents and guardians

    Under the travel guidelines, each passenger will be permitted to check in two bags, with a maximum weight of 23 kilograms per bag. Any luggage exceeding the stipulated limit will not be accepted.

    Parents and guardians travelling with children have been advised to carry all required travel documents, including consent letters where necessary. 

    “Each traveller is entitled to two pieces of checked luggage with a maximum weight of 23kg each. Any baggage exceeding the prescribed weight limit will not be accepted for travel.

    Parents or guardians travelling with children are required to bring all necessary travel documentation, including consent letters (where applicable), Road-to-Health Cards, and/or child weighing cards.

    “Travellers issued with Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs) will receive their documents at the airport on the day of departure”, the notice added.

    Meanwhile, over the weekend, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced that following the successful repatriation of the first 301 Ghanaians from South Africa, an additional 600 more have registered at Ghana’s High Commission in the host country to be brought back home.

    In a Facebook post on Saturday, May 31, the Minister said that “600 more Ghanaians have registered at our High Commission to be evacuated from South Africa.”

    Consequently, the government will not hesitate to respond to the desires of the distressed Ghanaians in South Africa amid the heightened xenophobic violent attacks on foreigners, including those from Ghana.

    “When the safety and dignity of Ghanaians are at stake, the Government of Ghana does not compromise or dither”, he said.

    Mr Ablakwa also expressed admiration for the resilience of affected Ghanaians, commending their calmness and determination in the face of the situation.

    “I am immensely proud of the resilient spirit of Ghanaians,” he added.

    Julius Malema slams Ghanaian government over citizens evacuation

    Leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, has broken silence following the evacuation of the first batch of 300 Ghanaians in South Africa.

    In a viral video, the politician noted that the Ghanaian government could have responded to recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa without resorting to the evacuation of citizens.

    According to him, the best approach could have been to pursue stronger diplomatic engagement and protective measures in collaboration with the South African government.

    He added, “The Ghana response was not necessary because it now creates an impression that we are all like that when it is a certain section of our society that needs to be contained by law enforcement”.

    “And one Ghanaian lady was saying, ‘you see the problem is, and I wouldn’t have taken this option, the problem is we’re being beaten in front of the police, and the police are not doing anything. That’s a problem. And when this opportunity came for me to leave, I left because if the police can’t defend me, it means the state is in agreement with the people who are beating me’.

    “So, we think it was too quick, we will still resolve this, and the president of Ghana should have given us some time to really deal with this matter and we’ll get to the bottom of it. We hope they will come back to their senses”.

  • Ghana likely to end year with at most 5% inflation”We don’t see inflation increasing above 5% by December 2026 – Ato Forson

    Ghana likely to end year with at most 5% inflation”We don’t see inflation increasing above 5% by December 2026 – Ato Forson

    Ghana’s current inflation rate stands at 3.7% (May 2026), up from 3.4% in April and Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson says he is hopeful that the rate will not extend beyond 5% by the end of the year.

    On his part the only reason why inflation could go up may be linked to the rising Middle East tension.

    He made the statement on Tuesday, 3 June during an interview with Bloomberg in London saying, “We don’t see inflation increasing above five per cent by December 2026. Inflation may rise further in the coming months, from the current 3.4%, due to developments in the Middle East and rising crude prices.”

    According to him, the government has implemented measures to stabilize the economy, and so far, the country has managed those shocks well.

    He was, however, worried about the rising fuel prices and the impact on the country’s balance of payment, since the country will have to use more forex from the reserves to shore up the cedi.

    “We are also worried about the impact on fertiliser and how that could also affect farming”, the minister noted

    Also, Dr Cassiel noted that the earlier growth rate projection of 4.8% may be higher by the end of the year the economy is currently performing. This estimate was included in the national budget.

    “We have seen some interesting developments in the oil and gas sector; that will impact the GDP [Gross Domestic Product] numbers at the end of this year”, he added.

    The minister added that he will revise the numbers when he presents the Mid-Year Budget Review in July 2026”.

    On the government’s decision to request for Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI ), after the completion of the Extend Credit Facility with the International Monetary Fund, Dr. Forson said the aim is to sustain the recent gains and assure investors of the government’s fiscal discipline going forward.

    The minister also anticipated an improved investment grade after the completion of this Policy Coordination Instrument.

    “Our investment grade has been improving over the past years, and we should look forward to hitting BBB after this initiative,” the finance minister added.

    The finance minister also disclosed that the government will use the Mid-Year Budget Review to announce its New Economic Policy programe, aimed at stabilising recent gains, while pressing ahead with the needed reforms.

    Meamwhile, Ghana will adopt the proposed Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) with the International Monetary Fund into the country’s monetary policy framework, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, has announced.

    Speaking at the opening of the 130th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting in Accra on Monday, May 18, Dr Asiama said the non-financing programme is intended to strengthen economic discipline, reinforce inflation targeting and improve interest rate transmission across the economy.

    “The non-financing programme would reinforce inflation targeting, improve interest rate transmission and strengthen the BoG’s balance sheet over the medium term following recent losses,” he said.

    “The PCI will also focus on strengthening the BoG’s balance sheet over the medium term by limiting quasi-fiscal activities and improving transparency and oversight of the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).”

    According to the Governor, Ghana’s economy has shown significant improvement in recent weeks despite challenges in the external environment, making the PCI a “credible next step” to sustain growth and maintain policy credibility.

    “The Ghanaian economy has improved meaningfully since our last meeting in March 2026. Since the end of March, the picture has been one of a domestically resilient economy navigating an increasingly difficult external environment. The PCI represents a considered and credible next step in Ghana’s institutional engagement with the international financial architecture,” he added.

    Detailing the difference between the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the PCI, Mr Asiamah noted that while the former focused on providing monetary support, the latter is a non-financing arrangement focused on technical support, policy credibility and helping Ghana attract funding from private investors and development partners.

    Dr. Asiama said the three-year programme, which was awaiting IMF Executive Board approval, was structured around six pillars, including sustaining growth-friendly fiscal adjustment, safeguarding debt sustainability and strengthening monetary and exchange rate policy frameworks.

    The other pillars, he said, included strengthening fiscal transparency and governance, particularly in state-owned enterprises and quasi-fiscal activities, reinforcing financial sector stability and promoting economic diversification and inclusive growth.

    Dr Asiama said the PCI would help preserve gains achieved under the ECF programme while signalling the benefits of IMF engagement and reducing Ghana’s financial dependence on IMF resources.

    He continued that despite the complexities and challenging global macroeconomic conditions,

    Despite challenges in the external environment, Dr Asiama said the economy remained resilient amid increasingly difficult global macroeconomic conditions.

    He said the ongoing conflict in the Middle East had become a major external risk since the 129th MPC meeting, with its economic consequences now evident in global data.

  • SA xenophobic attacks: See list of Ghanaians registered to be airlifted June 7

    SA xenophobic attacks: See list of Ghanaians registered to be airlifted June 7

    The next batch of evacuees from South Africa is set to arrive in Ghana by Sunday, June 7, the Ghana High Commission in South Africa has announced under the ongoing voluntary evacuation programme amid the rising violent xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals.

    In a notice to Ghanaians in South Africa, the Commission released a list of registered evacuees who are set to be airlifted on Sunday to report to the Commission by Saturday, June 6, for briefing, verification and other pre-departure procedures.

    It also admonished that all persons on the list who have changed their minds about returning home should inform the consular by tomorrow, Thursday, June 4, to aid arrangements for other interested persons.

    “Individuals whose names appear on the approved evacuation list but no longer intend to travel are kindly requested to notify the High Commission no later than 12:00 noon on Thursday, 4 June 2026. This will enable other eligible applicants to be accommodated on the flight”, the notice added.

    See full list below:

  • Full list: Players listed in Ghana’s World Cup squad

    Full list: Players listed in Ghana’s World Cup squad

    Ghana’s head coach has released the final squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) published the squad list on its official website and social media platforms.

    Following the announcements, Carlos Queiroz addressed journalists at the GFA headquarters in Accra, confirming the names and explaining his selection choices.

    The squad announcement comes at a time when the Black Stars are preparing for their final preparatory match against Wales in Cardiff later today.

    Goalkeepers Paul Reverson and Solomon Agbasi have been omitted from the initial 28-man provisional squad, while vice-captain Alexander Djiku misses out through injury and is replaced by Derrick Luckassen.

    Here is the full squad:

    Goalkeepers

    Benjamin Asare
    Lawrence Ati-Zigi
    Joseph Anang

    Defenders

    Baba Abdul Rahman
    Gideon Mensah
    Marvin Senaya
    Alidu Seidu
    Abdul Mumin
    Jerome Opoku
    Jonas Adjetey
    Kojo Oppong Nkrumah Preprah
    Derrick Luckassen

    Midfielders

    Thomas Partey
    Elisha Owusu
    Kwasi Sibo
    Augustine Boakye
    Caleb Yirenkyi
    Abdul Fatawu Issahaku
    Kamaldeen Sulemana

    Forwards

    Jordan Ayew
    Antoine Semenyo
    Inaki Williams
    Ernest Nuamah
    Christopher Bonsu Baah
    Brandon Thomas-Asante
    Prince Kwabena Adu

    Meanwhile, given the country’s current economic situation, government is unwilling to sponsor supporters abroad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, President Mahama has said.

    Citing the nature of this year’s World Cup which is set to be hosted across three different nations, America, Mexico and Canada, President Mahama said it has increased the financial and logistical burden compared to the previous tournaments that was held in a single place.

    This he said makes fans sponsorship unsustainable with a staggering cost estimate of nearly $11,000 per supporter, a figure he described as well beyond what the state can responsibly absorb under current economic conditions.

    Consequently speaking at a diaspora town hall meeting in London on Sunday, May 31, President Mahama noted that,

    “We cannot, you know, spend our money in that manner. The cost approximates for each person to be fed, accommodated, transported, and all that to watch the games, tickets, and all that is estimated at almost $11,000,”.

    Govt’s new resolve

    President Mahama announced an alternative approach where government will procure match tickets and distribute them to Ghanaian communities already based in the host cities, a targeted intervention designed to ensure that diaspora Ghanaians can attend matches without placing an unsustainable burden on the public purse.

    “What we are doing is that we are procuring tickets for Ghanaians in the diaspora who want to attend the games. So if you want to attend the game, you will get a ticket to attend the game,” he said.

    “We have organised our chapters, our Ghanaian citizens in Boston, Philadelphia, and Canada. The tickets that we have purchased, we will give to them to enable them to watch the matches,” he added.

    The President encouraged Ghanaians abroad who are planning to travel to match venues to connect with recognised community groups and chapters, assuring them that arrangements are in place to ensure fair and organised access to the available tickets.

  • 48% of MoMo agents in Accra battling depression, anxiety – ISSER

    48% of MoMo agents in Accra battling depression, anxiety – ISSER

    Findings from a study conducted by the ReFinD Research Initiative, ISSER, have indicated that most mobile money agents in Accra are battling hidden mental health struggles.

    With a sample population of 800 MoMo vendors between June and July last year across Accra, the study found that almost half (48%) of them show signs of at least one mental health disorder. Many have depression, anxiety, or high stress

    “From June to July 2025, we surveyed over 800 mobile money agents across Greater Accra using clinically validated screening tools. The results were sobering: 48% met screening thresholds for at least one common mental disorder: 38% for depression, 32% for anxiety, and 30% for high psychological distress”, the study indicated.

    One of the major highlights of the report is that these MoMo agents have exceeded the average rate for mental health issues; thus, they experience depression and other mental health problems at a higher rate than the general population. However, despite these psychological struggles, they always show up for work.

    “These rates exceed Ghana’s general population, where depression prevalence is approximately 25% (Amu et al., 2021). But perhaps more striking was what agents didn’t do: they didn’t stay home.

    Most agents are self-employed or work on commission, where no work means no income. So they show up every day, even when struggling. This phenomenon, known as presenteeism, creates a different cost. Agents with higher distress scores showed lower on-the-job performance: more errors, slower service, and reduced ability to handle difficult customers,” the study added.

    Aside from presenteeism, most of these MoMo agents prioritise survival over health care, as many rely on energy drinks to get through the day.

    “We also found that about 30% of agents spend significant sums on painkillers, energy drinks, and herbal remedies just to get through the workday, survival tactics rather than health investments”, the study revealed.

    What’s driving the distress?

    Mobile money agents who rely solely on mobile money for their income tend to be more stressed and mentally burdened than those who have other businesses to support them financially.

    “When agents rated stress across life domains, mobile money business stress dominated; most rated it 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale. The reasons are clear: constant liquidity pressures, fraud risks, customer conflicts, and long hours with little time for recovery. Agents operating only mobile money reported higher distress than those with diversified businesses, suggesting that income diversification may buffer against stress”, the study added.

    Recommendations

    In light of the findings, the study is calling for deliberate interventions to support the mental well-being of mobile money agents, warning that neglecting their welfare could ultimately affect service quality, productivity, and the sustainability of Ghana’s mobile money industry.

    “The takeaway for telecoms, regulators, and fintech actors is this — mobile money’s success rests on agent networks, yet the current model extracts value from agents without adequately supporting them. Investing in agent well-being is not just an ethical imperative; it is essential for the long-term sustainability of mobile money services. The hidden costs of distress ultimately undermine service quality and network stability”, ISSER recommended adding that “The people powering Africa’s fintech revolution are struggling, and we can no longer afford to look away”.

    In a related development, over 6000 prospective applicants missed the opportunity to become security personnel in Ghana after failing the medical screening as part of the requirements in the recruitment process.

    During an interview with Accra-based Pan African TV on Saturday, May 23, the Interior Minister, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, indicated that the disqualified applicants were disqualified in the medical screening stage of the ongoing security services recruitment exercise after testing positive for drug use or being diagnosed with mental health conditions.

    According to him, his outfit introduced these extra examinations due to long-standing concerns about the mental health of the security personnel in the country. However, following the screening (drug testing and mental health assessments), more than 4,000 applicants failed the drug tests, while about 2,000 others were disqualified on mental health grounds.

    “We have over 100,000 people who have gone through the medicals. Because of the large numbers and because of what we have observed within the services, we introduced additional checks, including mental health assessments and drug tests. Interestingly, over 4,000 people failed the drug test, and we have over 2,000 who also failed due to mental health conditions,” he said.

    Mr Muntaka noted that the outcome of the screening highlights the importance of strengthening recruitment procedures to ensure that only qualified and medically fit individuals are enlisted into the security services.

    Suicide cases in 2024

    The Mental Health Authority (MHA) in September last year reported that the number of individuals deliberately taking their lives increased significantly in 2024.

    Speaking at the commemoration of World Suicide Prevention Day 2025 in Accra on Wednesday, September 10, Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, Dr. Eugene Dordoye, revealed a 40% rise in suicide deaths during this period.

    According to him, about three hundred and thirty-four (134) suicide deaths were recorded in the previous year, adding that there are three to five individuals who attempt suicide but survive.

    “The reported lives lost in 2023 were about 134. But we know that for every life lost, three to five times more people attempt. And for every attempt, up to 10 people are affected by it. Unfortunately, we experienced up to a 40% increase in 2024, and the concern here is whether it could be the increase in awareness or reportage,” he stressed.

    He called for urgent interventions to tackle the growing public health crisis, emphasising that, “ We don’t have all the answers, but what we know is that we need to do more, we cannot afford to lose Ghanaians through a preventable cause of death”.

    With the amendments to Section 57 of the Criminal Offences Act (1960) (Act 29) and Section 95 of the Mental Health Act (2012) (Act 846), persons who attempt suicide are no longer subject to legal prosecution or conviction.

    Those who attempt suicide are now viewed as requiring medical and psychological intervention rather than legal punishment.Suicide cases have seen a surge in recent years.

  • Ghana temporarily suspends repatriation registration exercise effective June 2 – High Commission

    Ghana temporarily suspends repatriation registration exercise effective June 2 – High Commission

    Ghana has announced a temporary suspension of the repatriation registration exercise in South Africa, effective today, Tuesday, June 2, the High Commission of the Republic of Ghana to South Africa has confirmed.

    The Commissioner communicated this in a formal notice yesterday, Monday June 1 citing that the move has become necessary to allow his outfit complete the screening of the growing number of people who have currently registered for the evacuation back home.

    As at the time the Commission issued the notice, it indicated that over 1,500 Ghanaians had registered with his outfit waiting to be airlifted.

     “The High Commission of the Republic of Ghana to South Africa wishes to inform all Ghanaians residing in South Africa that registration for the ongoing voluntary repatriation exercise will be temporarily suspended with effect from 2nd June, 2026.

    The temporary suspension is to enable the High Commission and the Home Affairs authorities to process and screen the large number of applications already received. To date, over 1,500 Ghanaians have registered, and the verification and processing of these applications are currently underway”, parts of the statement read.

    It assured affected parties to exercise patience, noting that the exercise hasn’t ended.

    “The date for the next phase of registration will be communicated in due course. The High Commission further wishes to assure all interested Ghanaians who have not yet registered that the repatriation exercise has not ended. The High Commission appreciates the cooperation, patience, and understanding of the Ghanaian community in ensuring a well-coordinated exercise”, it continued.

    Meanwhile, over the weekend, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced that following the successful repatriation of the first 301 Ghanaians from South Africa, an additional 600 more have registered at Ghana’s High Commission in the host country to be brought back home.

    In a Facebook post on Saturday, May 31, the Minister said that “600 more Ghanaians have registered at our High Commission to be evacuated from South Africa.”

    Consequently, the government will not hesitate to respond to the desires of the distressed Ghanaians in South Africa amid the heightened xenophobic violent attacks on foreigners, including those from Ghana.

    “When the safety and dignity of Ghanaians are at stake, the Government of Ghana does not compromise or dither”, he said.

    Mr Ablakwa also expressed admiration for the resilience of affected Ghanaians, commending their calmness and determination in the face of the situation.

    “I am immensely proud of the resilient spirit of Ghanaians,” he added.

    Also, earlier, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa revealed that 410 Ghanaians fleeing xenophobic attacks in South Africa will be evacuated over the weekend.

    The weekend group would be the second batch to be repatriated, while the date for the rest is yet to be communicated after the arrival of the first 300 evacuees on Wednesday, May 27.

    Speaking during JoyFM’s Super Morning Show on Thursday, May 28, the High Commissioner indicated that, “The next batch will be of 410 evacuees who have given us their names that they want to go home voluntarily. It is going to be the coming Sunday or Tuesday; we have not fixed the exact date yet, but it should be between these three days.”

    He disclosed that about 1,000 Ghanaians living in South Africa have registered to return home over fears of the attacks.

    “As of this morning (Thursday, May 28), I have been briefed that we have almost a thousand who have fully registered and have indicated that they want to leave South Africa and go back home,” he noted.

    Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has urged the evacuees not to lose hope, assuring them that the government has plans in place to support their reintegration into society.

    Addressing the returnees at the Accra International Airport on Wednesday, May 27, Mr Ablakwa encouraged them to remain optimistic despite their experiences abroad.

    “We don’t want any of you to feel brokenhearted, don’t be downhearted, don’t be depressed, have confidence that the almighty has better plans for you,” he told the evacuees upon their arrival.

  • Road maintenance contractors threaten nationwide protest over six years of unpaid arrears

    Road maintenance contractors threaten nationwide protest over six years of unpaid arrears

    Road maintenance contractors have threatened to picket in front of the Jubilee house over unpaid arrears in the last six years.

    The firms responsible for building, repairing, and preserving trunk, urban, feeder roads, and desilting drains.

    According to the contractors, operating under the Single Man Contractors (SMC) Association, they have not been paid for certified works carried out for the Ghana Highway Authority since 2020 despite several appeals for settlement.

    In a petition to President John Dramani Mahama dated May 25, 2026, the group called for urgent intervention, arguing that the prolonged delay has created severe financial difficulties for members and affected their ability to continue operations.

    “As single man contractors, we undertook and completed the assigned work in good faith and according to the agreed terms. Despite several follow-ups with the Ghana Highway Authority, outstanding payment for the completed contract has still not been made,” the petition stated.

    They also revealed that, even in March this year, they petitioned the Presidency in March this year but have yet to receive a resolution to the matter.

    The association says it had earlier petitioned the Presidency in March this year but is yet to receive a resolution to the matter.

    They highlighted the relevance of their role during the rainy season, especially as rainfall continues across the country.

    The issue comes at a critical time as the rainy season intensifies across the country and concerns over flooding increase.

    “The continued delay in settling this obligation has caused serious financial hardship and affected both our livelihood and ability to meet other commitments,” the petition added.

    They have warned that if the outstanding payments remain unresolved, members may embark on a peaceful picketing exercise at Jubilee House to draw attention to their grievances.

    Govt’s road projects at GHC 50bn under Big Push

    Ghanaians are set for safe, smooth and fast travel as President John Mahama announced a massive expansion of roads under one of his flagship “Big Push” initiatives, stating that the project covering 1,144 kilometres is currently underway at an estimated cost of GH¢50 billion.

    He made this revelation while delivering the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Friday, February 27, describing the programme as the most extensive road-sector investment in Ghana’s history, explaining that the project will unlock key economic corridors, stimulate employment, and reduce the cost of transporting goods and services.

    The president continued that, aside from the new projects, the government is competing for 23 road contracts inherited from the previous administration, which cover 573 kilometres at GH¢15 billion. In total, nearly 2,000 kilometres of roads are being upgraded or rehabilitated across all 16 regions, with 73 projects already showing measurable progress.

    One of the major projects is the Accra-Kumasi highway. The government has proposed a 198.7-kilometre six-lane Accra–Kumasi Expressway aimed at reducing travel time from about 5-6 hours to just 2 and a half hours. Also, one of the country’s busiest and oldest expressways will see a facelift and feature eight interchanges and advanced safety systems.

    To oversee the project, the government has established Accra-Kumasi Expressway Limited, a subsidiary of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund, to manage design, financing, construction, and long-term operation under a concession arrangement of up to 50 years. Feasibility studies and detailed engineering designs are ongoing.

    Other strategic undertakings include the completion of the Eastern Corridor Road by 2027, the transformation of the Accra–Tema Motorway into a four-lane expressway with service roads and interchanges, and upgrades to the Kumasi Inner Ring Road. Bridge infrastructure is also progressing, notably the Dambai Bridge across the River Oti and the Adawso Bridge over the River Afram.

    Derailing how these road projects will be financed, President Mahama revealed that the cabinet has approved the reinstating of tolls this year, but adopting digital technology to check accountability and block any leakages in revenue, adding that the toll system will take effect later this year.