TIG Post

Author: Amanda Cartey

  • Video: Wendy Shay declines traditional drink presented by Oracle at Weija Palace

    Video: Wendy Shay declines traditional drink presented by Oracle at Weija Palace

    Singer Wendy Shay experienced an uneasy moment with a traditional oracle during her visit to the Weija Palace on November 20, 2025.

    She is currently preparing for the 2025 edition of her annual Shay Concert, which is set for November 22 at the West Hills Mall in Weija.

    As part of her buildup to the event, she called on Nii Ayi Okufobour, the traditional ruler of Weija, to seek his approval and spiritual support for the show.

    When she arrived at the palace, members of the royal household, including an oracle, welcomed her with traditional rites involving chants and cultural performances.

    Wendy Shay has also lodged a complaint with the police against a young man who accused her of engaging in same-sex activities.

    During the palace ceremony, the oracle presented her with a small cup of what was believed to be palm wine, which is commonly used in traditional rituals.

    The singer appeared uneasy and refused the drink, even though people nearby encouraged her to take a sip.

    After she declined, the oracle poured the beverage as libation and held her hand to carry out a three-step traditional gesture before she was allowed to meet the elders of the palace.

    This year’s Shay Concert, supported by Hisense Ghana and The Luckiest Africa, will feature performances from Ghanaian acts such as Showboy, KiDi, Mr Drew, Eno Barony, Larusso, Quamina MP, Kofi Mole, and Lasmid.

    Weeks ago, entertainment pundit Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo openly admitted to Afropop singer Wendy Shay that he is deeply impressed by her remarkable growth in the music industry, despite facing early criticism and a lack of appreciation.

    He explained that the negative perception many Ghanaians, including himself, had toward Wendy Shay in her early days was partly due to the nation still mourning the untimely death of the late Ebony Reigns.

    Arnold acknowledged, however, that Wendy Shay’s resilience and determination have paid off, making her one of the few artists who have successfully risen above public doubt to solidify their place in Ghana’s music scene.

    “I was the few people who did not like you when you were introduced on the Ghana Music Awards stage because of the love we had for Ebony. But then you won me over over the period. I remember when I told you about how impressed I am with your growth. Even the way you answered questions and how you have grown. I am super impressed. Because you’ve been very consistent. Since the time you were unveiled on that stage,” he said in a conversation on United Showbiz.

    Months ago, Wendy shared some of the challenges she encountered with family members due to trolls on social media.

    According to her, netizens chided her over their belief that she was doing all she could to imitate the late Ebony Reigns.

    During an appearance on Afrobeats Podcast with Adesope Shopsydoo, the ‘It’s Too Late‘ hitmaker revealed that her mother suggested she return to Germany.

    According to her, some family members were shy to associate with her.

    “At a point, my mum asked me to quit music and return to Germany because the trolling was overwhelming and it affected everyone in my family,” she said. “Some of my relatives were even kind of shy to associate with me at the time.”

    “Imagine they take your face, edit it to make you look like an old woman, and start mocking and laughing at you. They even said I wasn’t talented enough. It was crazy. I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy, but it built me,” Wendy added.

    Despite these challenges, Wendy Shay established herself as one of Ghana’s most recognized female artistes.

    Her first single titled “Uber Driver” shot her to the limelight, followed by other chart-topping hits such as “Heat”, “Stevie Wonder” featuring Shatta Wale, “Emergency” and “Survivor.”

    Wendy’s latest hit, “It’s Too Late,” has been enjoying massive attention across media platforms and is topping charts globally after a schoolgirl in Ashaiman, Tracy, went viral dancing to the song.

    The video quickly gained traction, with many praising her energy and talent. However, some critics questioned her choice of attire and expressions, calling them inappropriate for a child.

    Despite the mixed reactions, the music star was moved by Tracy’s enthusiasm and decided to take action.

    Wendy Shay, who had performed at Ridoana Comprehensive School during the All Ashaiman Schools Festival, returned to honor the young girl. In a touching video shared on her social media, Wendy spoke to the school’s students and staff, recounting the moment she first saw Tracy perform.

    “About a week ago, I came here to this school to perform, and during my performance, there was this talented, beautiful, shining star—Tracy—dancing and singing passionately to my song ‘Too Late.’ The video went viral and is still trending. So I came back today to say thank you and to reward my little star, my shining star, Tracy,” Wendy said, her words filled with pride.

    In a moment of true generosity, Wendy Shay announced a full educational scholarship for Tracy, covering her education from Class 5 all the way through to university.

    The award-winning artiste, who has bagged honours at both the 3Music Awards and the Ghana Music Awards, credits her resilience and the unwavering support from her fans for her continued success.

    She spoke out against the backlash surrounding a viral video of a teenage girl dancing at one of her recent performances.

    The video, which circulated widely on social media on April 3, 2025, captured the young girl dancing enthusiastically to Wendy Shay’s latest song, Too Late, which contains explicit lyrics.

    While the girl’s passion impressed some viewers, others expressed concern about the setting of the performance, criticizing Wendy for performing such a song in front of minors. The young girl also became a target of online trolls, with some social media users mocking her moves and labeling her dance as overly sensual.

    In reaction to the growing criticism, Wendy Shay took to social media to share her thoughts, highlighting how many were failing to recognize the girl’s potential and confidence. She wrote:

    Wendy went on to condemn the negativity flooding the comment sections and stressed the importance of nurturing young talent rather than discouraging it.

    She continued, “My performance over the weekend has put light on a little girl dancing passionately and happily in the crowd and it’s surprising how some people cannot easily identify a talented and confident child when they see one.

    “I see a lot of negative comments under the post, and it is heartbreaking because what I see is a beautiful, talented, and confident young girl who could become a professional dancer or a musician if she is carefully guided,” she said.

    She concluded her post by urging critics to adopt a more constructive mindset and stop tearing down young people expressing themselves creatively, “Let us advance our mindset and see positivity in things like this.

    Her response has sparked a wave of support from fans and social media users who agree that young talents should be encouraged rather than attacked.

  • Step aside Lumba’s funeral dispute – Parkoso youth to Abusuapanyin

    Step aside Lumba’s funeral dispute – Parkoso youth to Abusuapanyin

    Some youth of the Parkoso community have demanded that the late Lumba’s Abusuapanyin, Kofi Owusu, refrain from involving himself in all burial preparations.

    According to a member of the group identified as Yaw Obese, the Abusuapanyin is tarnishing the reputation of the late Highlife legend.

    “We are from Parkoso, and we are here today not to fight but to demand that Abusuapanyin remove himself from Lumba’s burial preparations and also bury him at Parkoso because that is where Lumba comes from.

    “What Abusuapanyin is doing is tainting the community’s image. We have heard him say that there is no land where he can give him (Lumba) a resting place, so we don’t need to involve him in the funeral ceremony,” he said.

    Family of the late Daddy Lumba appeared before a Kumasi High Court on November 21, 2025,  after the late musician’s first wife, Akosua Serwaa, dragged his mistress, Odo Broni, to court.

    Akosua Serwaa, is praying the court to declare her the sole widow in the burial preparations, among other requests.

    Aside from the dispute between the musician’s wives, the late Lumba’s Abusuapanyin, Kofi Owusu, has also been implicated in allegations, including withdrawing GH¢30,000 from the singer’s burial contributions to fund hotel bills during his stay in Accra.

    The late Lumba’s Abusuapanyin, Kofi Owusu, has now been implicated in allegations, including withdrawing GH¢30,000 from the singer’s burial contributions to fund hotel bills during his stay in Accra.

     The burial date for the Highlife musician, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, has been chnaged from 6th December to December 13, 2025.

    According to report, the date extension will provide the family with ample time to know the cause of the musician’s death before his burial.

    The late Daddy Lumba’s elder sister, Ernestina Fosu has declared that there will be no burial for Daddy Lumba until the actual cause of his death is known.

    After a court appearance, Ernestina told Adum TV that until the truth is known, no amount of court ruling or family decision would compel her to allow the funeral to proceed.

    “The funeral will not be held on December 6. We did not seek an injunction because we are mad. We still don’t know what killed my brother. We cannot allow people to rush with his funeral,” she said.

    However, she has expressed readiness to organize the funeral on the scheduled December 6 if she receives a clear explanation about what caused Daddy Lumba’s death before then.

    “There will be no problem if we find out about the cause of Daddy Lumba’s death before December 6. But if we don’t find out what killed my brother, I won’t allow my family to bury my brother, Charles,” she said.

    Ernestina Fosu has earlier indicated that she is not prepared to organize Daddy Lumba’s funeral on Dec 6.

    She made this known to the media in the aftermath of a court proceeding at the Kumasi High Court on October 28, 2025.

    “I am not ready for my brother’s funeral on December 6, 2025,” she stated firmly in a video shared on social media.

    Akosua Serwaa filed an injunction against the late musician’s funeral scheduled for December 6, demanding that she be recognized as the only surviving wife of the musician and not Odo Broni, who is currently claiming that title.

    While the court has yet to rule on the spousal status of Akosua Serwaa and Odo Broni, the Kumasi High Court has dismissed an injunction application that sought to halt the burial and funeral of the late legend.

    The judgment allows the family to go ahead with burial plans as originally arranged.

    Madam Serwaa’s lawyer, William Kusi, insisted that his client was the musician’s only legally recognized wife and that her rights were being ignored in the funeral preparations. He supported his argument with a civil marriage certificate reportedly issued in Germany as evidence of their union.

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

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

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

    “Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives. His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience.”

    Daddy Lumba was renowned for his incredible talent as a singer, composer, songwriter, recording artist, and producer.

    With an illustrious career that has spanned over three decades, Daddy Lumba was widely regarded as the greatest and most influential musician in Ghanaian history.

    Many artists in Ghana, including Ofori Amponsah, Sarkodie, Kuami Eugene, Paa Solo of Sibo Brothers, Oheneba Kissi, KiDi, and others, consider him their major inspiration in the music industry.

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

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

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

    During his time at Juaben Senior High School, he led the school choir and composed the song “Lumba Lumba,” dedicated to the freedom fighters in South Africa.

    This song’s popularity earned him the nickname “Daddy Lumba”, which later became his stage name. He also formed the Lumba Brothers band during his school days, which included his girlfriend at the time, Theresa.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • 52 schoolchildren allegedly kidnapped by armed men in Niger State

    52 schoolchildren allegedly kidnapped by armed men in Niger State

    Armed men have attacked St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, early Friday and kidnapped students and staff. The exact number abducted has not been confirmed, but Arise TV reports that 52 schoolchildren were taken.

    Niger State government secretary Abubakar Usman said the attack happened despite intelligence warnings of increased threats. He criticised the school for reopening without notifying the state authorities, saying the decision exposed students and staff to danger.

    Police confirmed the pre-dawn abductions and said military and security teams have been deployed to track the attackers.

    The incident follows the kidnapping of 25 schoolgirls in neighbouring Kebbi State days earlier, where a staff member was killed.

    No group has claimed responsibility, but Nigeria continues to face threats from Boko Haram and armed criminal gangs known as bandits.

    The repeated school attacks highlight Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, leaving families waiting for updates on their missing children.

    No group has claimed responsibility for the latest kidnapping, but Nigeria continues to face threats from multiple armed networks. These include Boko Haram responsible for the 2014 Chibok schoolgirl abduction and heavily armed criminal gangs commonly referred to as bandits. Over the past decade, these groups have increasingly targeted schools, seeing them as soft targets where children can be seized in large numbers to pressure families and governments into negotiations or ransom payments.

    Security analysts say the pattern of attacks suggests that kidnapping syndicates are becoming more organised and bold, often operating across state borders and using dense forest areas as operational bases. The frequency of the abductions, they warn, reveals deepening weaknesses in intelligence coordination and rural security infrastructure.

    Following the Papiri incident, authorities say search-and-rescue operations are underway, though they have not provided details for operational reasons. Military helicopters have, in past cases, been deployed to support aerial surveillance, while ground troops move across suspected routes used by abductors. For now, officials are urging the public to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information that could compromise ongoing efforts.

    Community leaders in Niger State have appealed for swift and decisive government action, saying parents are increasingly hesitant to send their children to school. Some rural schools have already shut down temporarily due to continuous threats. Religious leaders and local chiefs have warned that the region risks a growing education crisis if the attacks continue, with girls especially at risk of dropping out permanently.

    Education rights advocates are calling for urgent structural reforms to protect learning environments. Many rural schools lack basic fencing, trained security personnel, or early warning systems that could help alert authorities during threats. Organisations working in conflict-affected areas argue that without improved investment in school safety, the country will continue to witness disruptions that undermine children’s education and long-term development.

    Human rights groups have also raised concerns about the trauma faced by families and surviving students. Parents of the abducted children have gathered near the school and at local police stations, hoping for updates from authorities. Many recall previous incidents where kidnapped children were held for weeks or months before release, often after complex negotiations. The uncertainty has created emotional strain among families already grappling with economic hardship and insecurity.

    Local vigilante groups, which sometimes assist security forces, have expressed readiness to support rescue operations but have been cautioned to coordinate with the military to prevent clashes or missteps. These civilian groups play a significant role in rural protection due to limited police presence but often lack the training and resources to confront heavily armed kidnappers.

    The federal government has yet to issue a formal statement on the Papiri abduction, though officials are expected to address the matter as pressure mounts. Over the years, the government has repeatedly pledged to improve security and end mass kidnappings, yet communities say these promises rarely translate into significant improvements on the ground.

    The rising wave of abductions has contributed to broader concerns about national security, especially in northern regions where violent attacks, cattle rustling, and armed robberies are common. Analysts say the persistence of these incidents reflects deeper structural issues, including poverty, weak security funding, porous borders, and limited intelligence-sharing among agencies.

    As families wait anxiously for news of their missing children, the Papiri attack once again exposes the vulnerability of students in areas plagued by insecurity. Parents, community leaders, education advocates, and security experts are united in their call for urgent action and long-term reforms.

    For now, the priority remains the safe rescue of the kidnapped students and staff. Authorities insist that all available resources are being mobilised. Yet for many Nigerians, the recurring nature of these attacks raises painful questions about when or if the cycle of school kidnappings will finally end.

  • I made $1,000 in three days through TikTok live – Kwaw Kese

    I made $1,000 in three days through TikTok live – Kwaw Kese

    Hiplife musician Kwaw Kese revealed that he earned $1,000 from his TikTok live sessions in just three days.

    However, he stated that the amount is not substantial enough to make him rely on the platform fully, as it cannot cover all his needs.

    “The first three days I came on TikTok Live, I made $1,000. I don’t have time, and it is not TikTok money that will make me okay. I don’t give a damn, no matter what you people say. You haven’t seen someone who is unbothered before?”Kwaw Kese quizzed.

    His comment comes in response to comment that he is now resorting to Tiktok as amaens to earn a living.

    “Some of you are saying I come on TikTok because of money. If that were the case, I would be here every single day looking for money,” he said.

    Singer Wendy Shay has revealed that she recently received an amount of ten thousand dollars $10,000 as earnings from YouTube.

    In an interview on Adom TV, Wendy revealed that she receives thousands of dollars weekly from song streaming platforms and for this recent one, she has gone ahead to ask to transfer the money into her accounts.

    “I was there this week when $10,000 dropped from YouTube, and that’s just YouTube alone. I don’t like to talk about my finances on air, but I receive thousands of dollars every week.” she said.

    She added the the amount is just what Youtube pays her from time to time.

    Adding that, earnings from other streaming platforms are yet to be known.

    Wendy explained that music is tangible and streamed every day, which accounts for such earnings on a weekly basis.

    Nigerian streamer Hamzat Habeeb Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, has earned 11 million coins on TikTok through the Hallelujah Challenge, a praise and prayer event currently ongoing on social media led by Pastor Nathaniel Bassey.

    The TikToker expressed his uncontained joy on X extending his profound gratitude to Pastor Nathaniel.

    According to an X user @AsakyGRN who shared the video, he explained the weight of Peller’s TikTok gain which explains why Peller is in disbelief and joyful at the same time.

    “… as he collected 11 million coins on TikTok, that’s $143,000; TikTok will take 50% leaving Peller with $71,500 (₦103,532,000), ” the X user stated.

    People around the world have shared testimonies of marital breakthroughs, mysterious pregnancies, travel opportunities, speed over delayed expectations, and many unimaginable testimonies.

    I’d like you to please watch the video below to see Peller’s expression of excitement over the blessing he received through the religious event.

    TikTok is giving several users a reason to smile as it’s earning them some cash and recognition, and Chef Abby is one of the beneficiaries.

    Ghanaian culinary sensation and digital content creator Abena Amoakoa Sintim-Aboagye, popularly known as Chef Abbys, has stated that her rise to fame was completely unexpected.

    Chef Abbys was selected as the only African creator to represent TikTok at the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in France.

    According to her, her TikTok journey began out of a simple joy of showcasing the beauty of Ghanaian cooking.

    Little did she know that it was a step to attain greater heights.

    “Honestly, I started just to share the joy of Ghanaian cooking. I never imagined TikTok would be the platform that would take me from Accra to the global stage in Cannes,” she reflected in an interview.

    Chef Abbys has won the hearts of global audences by combiing the richness of traditional Ghanaian cuisine with a modern, visually appealing presentation style.

    Her videos go beyond cooking. They celeberate local ingredients, shocase cultural traditions and tell the deeper stories behind Ghanaian meals to a worldwide audience.

    After collaborating with international creators and partnering with major brands such as Nestlé and TikTok, she is now urging Ghanaian creatives to take bold steps and begin their journeys, even if everything isn’t perfect from the start.

    “Don’t overthink it, Abena. Just start. Your story matters, and the world is waiting to hear it,” she said—speaking to her younger self, and now hoping the message resonates with every aspiring creator who doubts their value.

    “You don’t need perfect lighting or a perfect video. Be yourself, and let your culture shine through your content. Your perspective is valid. The world doesn’t need another copy—it needs you.”

    Ghanaian chef Failatu Abdul Razak, widely known as Chef Faila, has expressed that even though her attempt to set the Guinness World Record for the Longest Cooking Marathon by an individual was unsuccessful, she considers the experience a major breakthrough.

    “Prior to the cooking marathon, I was simply a young woman from Northern Ghana, driven by passion to make a meaningful impact in my community. My ultimate goal was to shine a spotlight on the north, showcasing its richness and potential, while elevating Ghana’s profile globally.

    “It was just a dream before my attempt. However, the GWR attempt proved to be a transformative experience, far exceeding my expectations. Although I didn’t break the record, I gained something more valuable in terms of visibility, connections and a platform to amplify my vision,” she said.

    In contrast, Media personality and social media influencer Ama Pokuaa Memeneda Ba has revealed that despite having approximately 2.5 million followers, she is not earning money from her TikTok content.

    In an interview on The Delay Show with Deloris Frimpong Manso, Ama Pokuaa discussed her failed attempts at joining the military, her venture into the media, and her eventual transition into content creation, primarily on TikTok.

    When asked if she earns from her TikTok posts, Ama Pokuaa responded, “The videos I post on the platform don’t make me any money. It’s only when a follower gifts me that I can convert those gifts into cash.”

    She clarified that while some creators go live on TikTok to request gifts, she does not engage in such practices.

    Ama Pokuaa also disclosed that she has not secured any major brand deals and relies instead on occasional promotions for small businesses.

    “I don’t have any contracts from brands either. Only one or two business owners contact me to promote their products,” she said.

    In a lighthearted moment, she expressed her desire for a brand deal with Delay, saying, “I would be very happy if I got a brand deal from Delay,” which elicited laughter from the host.

  • 5 forest reserves in possession of armed illegal miners – GIIF

    5 forest reserves in possession of armed illegal miners – GIIF

    The Ghana Institute of Foresters (GIF) has reported that five of the country’s forest reserves remain under the control of armed illegal miners, heightening concerns about the safety of Ghana’s protected forests.

    GIF’s communique indicates that as of early 2025, armed miners had seized nine reserves, restricting access for forestry officials.

    “Fifty protected reserves comprising 49 forest reserves and one wildlife reserve, Bui National Park, have been affected by mining activities. At the beginning of 2025, nine forest reserves had been taken over by armed miners who prevented access by foresters. By October, five forest reserves remain under the control of armed miners, including Apamprama Forest Reserve, Offin Shelterbelt Forest Reserve, Oda River Forest Reserve, Tano Anwia Forest Reserve, and Tano Nimri Forest Reserve.”

    As of October, armed miners maintained control over five forest reserves, particularly Apamprama, Offin Shelterbelt, Oda River, Tano Anwia and Tano Nimri.

    Altogether, mining activities have impacted 50 protected reserves, including 49 forest reserves and the Bui National Park.

    In all, mining has touched fifty protected areas, made up of 49 forest reserves and the Bui National Park.

    The findings were presented during the 28th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Ghana Institute of Foresters, held on November 6, 2025, at the Amonoo-Neizer (IDL) Conference Centre, KNUST, Kumasi. The AGM, themed “Foresters at the Forefront of Change: Tackling Mining Challenges and Advancing Forest Restoration,” brought together about 150 members and was chaired by Prof. Kyereh Boateng of KNUST’s Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources.

    Dr. Hugh Brown, Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission and keynote speaker, highlighted the dangers posed by illegal mining, stressing that “several forest reserves have been taken over by armed miners, preventing access by our foresters and compromising conservation efforts.”

    Speakers at the meeting emphasized how small-scale mining is harming the environment. Erastus Asare Donkor revealed that over 60% of the nation’s water bodies have been contaminated, while Mustapha Seidu outlined the implications of L.I. 2462 on forest preservation and noted that government steps are underway to repeal it.

    GIF members called for tougher enforcement, better coordination with security forces, and greater public awareness to help curb illegal mining.

    The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) task force has seized illegal mining equipment in a major swoop in Obuasi in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region.

    Equipment seized during the operation conducted on Monday, November 17, included motorbikes, vehicles, water pumps, and other tools used for illegal mining activities. Makeshift shelters and assorted equipment at the site were also destroyed.

    The task force also stormed a concession at Anyankyireml, a site that had been taken over by groups of illegal miners. Although the concession is legally owned by Asante Gold Corporation, it has been occupied by these illegal miners, forcing the rightful owners to flee the site.

    However, the intervention of the NAIMOS team drove out the miners and securing the land for its rightful owners. Illegal mining continues to pose a major challenge to the country, with several foreign nationals implicated and multiple arrests made. In June, NAIMOS warned criminal groups to vacate galamsey areas.

    The John Dramani Mahama-led government established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat in July as part of efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the country.

    Speaking during an update on Wednesday, July 23, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, disclosed that the newly established Secretariat would act as the brain of Ghana’s anti-illegal mining operations.

    “To coordinate the efforts of the military, police, and other security agencies, the ministry has established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) as the operational nerve-centre for Ghana’s fight against illegal small-scale mining,” he stated.

    The Secretariat’s responsibility is to collaborate with other key institutions such as the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Finance (GRA–Customs Division), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority as part of its mandate.

    This collaboration is expected to ensure that excavators and other earth-moving equipment entering the country are not diverted for illegal mining activities.

    “In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance (GRA–Customs Division), and the Ports and Harbours Authority, we have initiated a proactive tracking of all imports of excavators and earth-moving equipment from the point of entry,” he added.

    Illegal mining activities continue to pose a major challenge to the country. Several Chinese nationals have been involved in such illegal operations, leading to multiple arrests.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that scientific tests are being carried out on new chemicals that could help restore polluted water bodies and rivers affected by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

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

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

    According to him, government advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralize or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies.

  • Gov’t approves payment for pre-2024 public sector recruits

    Gov’t approves payment for pre-2024 public sector recruits

    Persons recruited into the public sector in the months leading up to the 2024 General Elections will now be paid.

    Myjoyonline reports that, Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo made the disolure in parliament following the government’s approval of financial clearance.

    “As far as the Labour and Finance Ministries are concerned, all these persons will be paid by the government even though they were not employed by us. They are Ghanaians.”

    He noted that the government was “really concerned about this development, but we have concluded that they should be paid.”

    Background

    Government in December 2024, raised concerns about the last-minute appointments made in the public sector by the NPP administration.

    The concern at the time was that the necessary financial clearance had not been sought from the incoming government.

    According to a letter from the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, seen by JOYBUSINESS in February this year, all public sector appointments and recruitment made after December 7, 2024, were to be halted, citing non-compliance with good governance practices and principles.

    On Monday, November 10, the government announced that effective January 2026, the national daily minimum wage will also be increased from GH₵19.97 to GH₵21.77.

    The review follows several deliberations by the National Tripartite Committee (NTC), which comprises representatives from the government, employers, and labour unions.

    It was made official on Sunday, November 9, after the government, represented by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) and the Ministry of Finance (MoF), and Organised Labour, signed the agreement.

    During the signing ceremony, Finance Minister Dr. Ato Forson pledged the government’s commitment to upholding its side of the agreement while commending the efforts of Organised Labour.

    “The country has gone through difficult times with high inflation and interest rates, but today both indicators have declined. The government is working to further reduce inflation from the current 8 percent to ease the burden on Ghanaians,” he said.

    In July this year, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson indicated that wages and salaries exceeded the budget by GH¢1.3 billion for the first six months of the year. Per the 2025 budget statement, compensation of employees, comprising wages and salaries, pensions, gratuities, and social security, has been programmed at GH¢76.2 billion for the entire year.

    Presenting the 2025 Mid-Year Budget in Parliament on Thursday, July 24, the Finance Minister revealed that the government has faced significant pressures on the compensation budget in the first half of 2025, mainly due to wages and salaries.

    The wage pressures, the minister said, were largely driven by last-minute recruitments undertaken by the previous government in the last quarter of 2024, especially in the education, health, and security sectors faced significant pressures on the compensation budget in the first half of 2025, mainly due to“In addition, ad-hoc reviews of conditions of service undertaken in previous years have distorted the Single Spine Pay Policy and further burdened the public wage bill,” the sector minister added.

    In 2024, compensation of employees amounted to GH¢67,189 million (5.7% of GDP), above the target of GH¢63,683 million (6.2% of GDP) by 5.5 percent. Wages and salaries constituted 89.8 percent of the total compensation and amounted to GH¢60,352 million (5.1% of GDP), 5.9 percent above the target of GH¢57,005 million (5.6% of GDP), per the 2025 budget statement.

    In February this year, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah issued a directive annulling all public service appointments and recruitments made after December 7, 2024 accounted for 89.8 percent.

    A letter was circulated to heads of government institutions, instructing them to comply with the directive and submit a report by February 17, 2025, detailing the actions taken in response.”Consistent with Government pronouncement in relation to near-end-of-tenure appointments and recruitments, I wish to bring to your attention that all appointments and recruitments made in the Public Services of Ghana after 7th December, 2024, are not in compliance with established good governance practices and principles.

    “Accordingly, all Heads of Government Institutions are hereby requested to take the necessary steps to annul any such appointments or recruitments and submit a comprehensive report on the actions taken to this Office by 17th February 2025.

    “Prior to the swearing-in of President-elect John Mahama, concerns were raised over last-minute appointments and financial transactions by the outgoing administration. The previous government defended these actions, stating, “these recruitment processes and payments have received the relevant statutory approvals and have not been proven to be illegal. It was decided that any specific allegation of illegality about any particular payment or recruitment should be brought to the attention of the Transition Team for a decision to be made.”

    Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin urged President Mahama to reconsider and overturn the cancellation of these appointments. In response, the Minister of State responsible for Government Communications and a spokesperson for President John Dramani Mahama, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, defended the administration’s move to invalidate appointments made after December 7, citing procedural flaws in the recruitment process.

    Speaking to the media in Accra on Wednesday, February 19, Kwakye Ofosu said, “Let me also put it on record that this action has been taken not because of a perception or a belief that they were NPP.

    It is because we know that the recruitment processes were attended by irregularities.”

    He pointed out cases where some individuals were issued retroactive appointment letters to falsely suggest they had been hired well before the elections, while others secured positions without going through interviews or even formally applying.

    Kwakye Ofosu stressed that such irregularities could not be overlooked and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to launching a fresh recruitment exercise that would be open to all qualified Ghanaians, regardless of their political backgrounds.

    “In due course, the government will do recruitment, and it will be open to all Ghanaians irrespective of political colouration. Indeed, your party identity will not be required. You will not be asked to show whether you’re NPP or NDC when that comes, but we will do it in a regular manner,” he explained.

    He also guaranteed that individuals whose appointments had been nullified would still have the chance to apply again and participate in a fair recruitment process. “So even those who have had their employment revoked will still have the opportunity to reapply and go through due process,” Kwakye Ofosu added.

    In his delivery to Parliament on Thursday, the Finance Minister revealed that more than 14,000 workers on the government’s payroll are unidentifiable and unverifiable by the Ghana Audit Service.

    The minister noted that as part of the government’s fiscal consolidation strategy, the government has taken measures to sanitize public sector payroll and rid it of ghost names.

    The government engaged the Ghana Audit Service to undertake a nationwide payroll audit across all 16 regions of the country. The Finance Minister revealed that the Ghana Audit Service has completed 91% of the payroll audit.

    The Service has identified 53,311 separated staff—these are staff who are either retired, resigned, terminated, on leave without pay, or deceased, and yet remain on government payroll.

    According to the sector minister, the Audit Services expects to recover GH¢150.4 million of unearned salaries from the separated staff over the 2023 and 2024 period.“Mr. Speaker, going forward, we will enforce the monthly payroll validation process and strictly apply sanctions to all who validate “ghosts” for payment of salaries.

    Rt. Hon. Speaker, let me use this opportunity to strongly caution those who validate “ghosts” across the public service that they will be personally liable for the loss of public funds,” Dr Cassiel Ato Forson said.He assured that the Ministry of Finance will continue to monitor the payroll and put in place measures to prevent “ghost names” on the payroll.

    By the end of August, the Ghana Audit Service, in partnership with EY and PWC, will complete the audit of arrears and payables as of the end of 2024. The Audit Service was tasked to audit and validate GH¢68.7 billion of arrears. The sector minister noted that about 87 percent of the audit has been completed.

    The preliminary results show that a total of GH¢28.3 billion has been validated for payment. Also, an amount of GH¢3.6 billion has been rejected because of errors, duplications, and non-compliance with PFM and procurement rules. An amount of GH¢562.6 million is without adequate supporting documents, and GH¢27.3 billion is pending validation.

    Dr Cassiel Ato Forson stated that “once finalized, we will update the House on the findings and outcomes.” In his delivery, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson noted that it has come to the attention of the Ministry of Finance that several contractors implementing some of these 55 stalled projects have drawn down on the loans with no work done to match the amounts drawn down.

    Again, some contractors have submitted additional costs in excess of what Parliament approved. In light of this, the Ministry of Finance has commissioned a forensic audit into these projects. “Mr. Speaker, we will apprise the House when this audit is completed,” the sector minister assured.

  • A/R:  NAIMOS task force member dead, four others seriously injured in fatal accident at Obuasi

    A/R:  NAIMOS task force member dead, four others seriously injured in fatal accident at Obuasi

    The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has been hit by tragedy following an accident near the Obuasi Airport area in the Ashanti Region that claimed the life of one taskforce member and left four others seriously injured.

    The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, while the team was carrying out a major anti-galamsey operation aimed at tackling illegal mining within the enclave.

    Confirming the development in a statement issued on November 19, 2025, the Ministry’s Media Relations Officer, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, said “tragically, one member of the taskforce has been confirmed dead, while the remaining four sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical care.”

    “The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources regrets to announce that a team of five (5) members of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) was involved in a fatal motor accident today near the Obuasi Airport area,” the statement added.

    The Ministry has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the NAIMOS taskforce member.

    Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah extended his profound sympathies to the family of the deceased and offered heartfelt wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured officers.

    A full investigation has also been launched to determine the circumstances that led to the accident.

    “We remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding the welfare of all frontline personnel and will ensure they receive the utmost support and care,” the statement concluded.

    Days ago, NAIMOS task force seized illegal mining equipment in a major swoop in Obuasi in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region.

    Equipment seized during the operation conducted on Monday, November 17, included motorbikes, vehicles, water pumps, and other tools used for illegal mining activities. Makeshift shelters and assorted equipment at the site were also destroyed.

    The task force also stormed a concession at Anyankyireml, a site that had been taken over by groups of illegal miners. Although the concession is legally owned by Asante Gold Corporation, it has been occupied by these illegal miners, forcing the rightful owners to flee the site.

    However, the intervention of the NAIMOS team drove out the miners and securing the land for its rightful owners. Illegal mining continues to pose a major challenge to the country, with several foreign nationals implicated and multiple arrests made. In June, NAIMOS warned criminal groups to vacate galamsey areas.

    The John Dramani Mahama-led government established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat in July as part of efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the country.

    Speaking during an update on Wednesday, July 23, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, disclosed that the newly established Secretariat would act as the brain of Ghana’s anti-illegal mining operations.

    “To coordinate the efforts of the military, police, and other security agencies, the ministry has established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) as the operational nerve-centre for Ghana’s fight against illegal small-scale mining,” he stated.

    The Secretariat’s responsibility is to collaborate with other key institutions such as the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Finance (GRA–Customs Division), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority as part of its mandate.

    This collaboration is expected to ensure that excavators and other earth-moving equipment entering the country are not diverted for illegal mining activities.

    “In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance (GRA–Customs Division), and the Ports and Harbours Authority, we have initiated a proactive tracking of all imports of excavators and earth-moving equipment from the point of entry,” he added.

    Illegal mining activities continue to pose a major challenge to the country. Several Chinese nationals have been involved in such illegal operations, leading to multiple arrests.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that scientific tests are being carried out on new chemicals that could help restore polluted water bodies and rivers affected by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

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

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

    According to him, government advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralize or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies.

    Additionally, the President pledged to honor the calls of many Ghanaians by declaring a state of emergency when his advisors give him the nod to do so.

    President Mahama believes that the country can eradicate the long-term canker if it deploys more troops and invests additional resources in the fight. He concluded that the battle seems to be a long one, but his administration is committed to ending it.

    “While we are fighting the menace, I am also saying we should uptake technology in order to protect the environment. So yes, let’s fight the illegal mining but at the same time, let’s bring the new technology that will help us protect our environment.

    “Now with the elephant in the room, state of emergency, yes, I have the power to do it, but the president acts on the advice of the National Security Authority, and as at now, this moment, the National Security Authority believes that we can win the fight against galamsey without declaring a state of emergency. I want to assure you that the day they advise me otherwise, that boss, now we need a state of emergency, I won’t hesitate,” he added.

  • Focus on dating, not marriage, if you lack patience – Reggie Rockstone’s advise to singles

    Focus on dating, not marriage, if you lack patience – Reggie Rockstone’s advise to singles

    Hiplife pioneer, Reggie Rockstone, has advised that dating should be the focus of single who lack the virtue of patience.

    According him, his years of marriage experience has proven to him that marriage requires hard work and a lot of patience to sustain it.

    “Just continue being in relationships and don’t think of marriage if you’re impatient. It’s a hard work, but it’s easy as well. Love is good and it’s natural to have a partner,”  he said in an interview on Joy Prime on November 19, 2025.

    Addressing the public perception that dating or marrying a celebrity is difficult, Reggie Rockstone explained that celebrities are humans too, experiencing life in different ways just like everyone else.

    “I’m like everybody else. I go through the ups and downs, I’m actually a stubborn man. Marriage is work. If you’re not patient enough, don’t try it,” he said.

    Renowned Ghanaian actor Van Vicker is celebrating twenty-two years of marriage with his wife, Adjoa Van Vicker.

    Taking to social media in celebration of the milestone, the actor attributed all that has contributed to the stability of his marriage to God.

    He shared a photo on his Instagram page with the caption “22 years of counting, Na God.”

    Van Vicker got married to his wife on October 16, 2023, in Accra after they met in 1993 and have lived together ever after.

    The couple has been blessed with three children: two girls and a boy.

    Fans on social media have been sending their congratulatory messages to the couple, beneath Van Vicker’s post.

    “Congratulations to you guys and forever to go, “Congratulations to you both. Love is indeed beautiful,” were some reactions from fans on social media.

    In 2024, Ghanaian gospel sensation Diana Antwi Hamilton and her husband, Dr. Joseph Hamilton, are joyfully marking 19 years of marriage.

    The couple, who tied the knot in August 2005, celebrated their anniversary with a touching Instagram video featuring a special moment between them.

    Diana expressed her gratitude and love with the caption: “This is indeed the doing of the Lord. Happy anniversary to us @drjosephhamilton. I still do wai.” Over the course of their marriage, they have been blessed with twins, a boy and a girl.

    In another heartfelt post, Diana shared a nostalgic photo of herself and her husband, proudly wearing the same heels she wore at their traditional wedding ceremony nearly two decades ago.

    In the same year, Ghanaian actress Selly Galley and husband Steven Fiawoo known popularly as Praye Tietia expressed gratitude for 15 years of love and growth.

    The reality star, who recently welcomed twins with her husband, praised him as the best the world has to offer and shared their joy on Valentine’s Day.

    She stated that they keep getting better and growing finer like fine wine.

    “15years together this year. Like fine wine we keep getting better and growing finer 🥰♥️ A strong team 🥰Unconditional and intentional 🫶🏻♥️

    “Specially tailored for each other. Till casket baby @prayetietia we ride and d!ẽ. You’re an incredible man, the best the world has to offer, blessing to me and I love you deeply! #happyvalentinesday,” Selly captioned their photos.

    In 2023, Nollywood actress, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, took to social media to mark her 27th wedding anniversary with her husband, Captain Matthew Ekeinde.

    The actress, while celebrating their anniversary, ceased the occasion to also wish the Captain a glorious happy birthday.

    Omotola added that although they have been married for 27 years, they are yet to get into the second phase of their union.

    While reiterating her endless love for the Captain, she added that their youngest child is 27 years hence they wouldn’t need parental guidance anymore.

    She wrote: “Happy birthday my Forever HoneyBoy… And… Happy Anniversary to us. 27 years and we only just about to get into phase 2 ! Last kiddo now 21… no more PG …. Ready Love? ♥️ U Endlessly

    Her post generated reactions from social media users as it appeared that Omotola’s husband had a tattoo of the actress name “Omosexy” on his arm.

    Also in 2020, Talented Ghanaian actor, Adjetey Anang, celeberated thirteen years of been married to his wife.

    Taking to his Instagram page, Adjetey Anang shared some photos of his beautiful wife from their recent marriage vow renewal to mark the celebration.

    He wrote: “Happy 13th Anniversary to you my dearest @elom_anang . Another new beginning… Another phase to grow better & better. Wish u lots of favour & blessings!”

    Waking up to the same person for thirteen years is definitely no joke. It takes someone with balls to be able to stay faithful with one woman especially since cheating has become the new trend for most relationships.

  • Wendy Shay takes legal action against perpetrator behind lesbian claims

    Wendy Shay takes legal action against perpetrator behind lesbian claims

    Singer Wendy Shay has officially filed a complaint with the Ghana Police Service concerning allegations that she is engaged in lesbianism with a young girl she has adopted, known as Tracy Shay.

    A young man, in a viral video, alleges that Wendy is acting on a spiritualist’s instructions to engage in inappropriate conduct with the minor.

    Wendy is therefore urging the public to help identify the perpetrator so the person can be held accountable.

    “The matter has been formally reported to the Ghana Police Service, and active investigations are underway. I have been informed that the individual behind the account has been traced to the United Arab Emirates, where he is currently employed with a construction company. Further steps are being taken through the appropriate channels to ensure he is held accountable for his actions.

    “I am cooperating fully with the police and trust the investigation process to bring this matter to a swift and just resolution. I further encourage us all to continue standing against cyberbullying, online harassment, and malicious attacks on innocent people,” the statement shared on November 19, 2025, read.

    Legal representatives of renowned gospel musician Evangelist Diana Asamoah also strongly refuted claims suggesting that she is a lesbian.

    In a statement addressing a viral video circulating on social media, the legal team dismissed the allegations as slanderous and baseless.

    The video, featuring a woman of unknown identity, insinuates that the gospel singer is involved in same-sex relationships.

    According to the statement, Evangelist Diana Asamoah categorically denies the claim and maintains that she does not engage in any form of lesbianism.

    Her legal representatives have challenged the individual behind the accusations to step forward and provide evidence, indicating their readiness to contest the matter in court.

    “In the circumstances, we are throwing a challenge to the lady in the video to own up and justify her vile allegations so we contest her baseless claim in a court of competent jurisdiction,” the statement read.

    The legal team further urged the public to disregard the video should the accuser fail to substantiate her claims.

    This development follows a growing trend of public figures facing unfounded allegations online, raising concerns about misinformation and defamation on social media.

    A dancer and member of the DWP Academy, Lisa Quama, has addressed speculations surrounding her style of dressing, firmly stating that her fashion choices do not define her sexuality.

    Despite acknowledging her tomboyish style, Lisa strongly dismissed claims that she is a lesbian, emphasizing that one’s choice of clothing does not determine their sexual orientation.

    “I am not a lesbian. That is a sexual narrative, but a tomboy is simply someone comfortable in male clothes. Yes! I love men with all my heart,” she clarified on The Delay Show on March 8, 2025

    Lisa initially hesitated when asked whether she identified as a tomboy. However, after persistent questioning from the host, she eventually embraced the label.

    “I don’t want to say yes… I will never be a boy because I am a girl. I am not dressing like a boy… You know what? I am a tomboy. I have accepted that I am a tomboy,” she admitted.

    Her remarks come in response to ongoing social media discussions about her appearance, reinforcing the point that personal style should not be mistaken for one’s sexuality.

    Ace Ghanaian Highlife musician and actress Paulina Oduro has hit back at rumors about her sexuality, calling them baseless and absurd.

    Addressing the speculation that she is a lesbian, she expressed frustration over such claims, emphasizing that her role as a mother should be enough to dismiss the allegations.

    “I had an interview with Delay, and she said people say I am a lesbian,” Oduro recalled during a discussion on Joy Prime on March 26, 2025. “I ended up saying they are very stupid and idiots because I have three kids and an amazing relationship with my partners.”

    The veteran musician, who has remained single for some time, noted that her happiness is not dependent on being in a relationship. She asserted that she is emotionally independent and does not need a romantic partner to feel fulfilled.

    “I have been on my own for a while. I don’t need a man or another human being to make me happy,” she stated. “You can be who you want to be, but don’t label me because it is something I don’t like.”

    Paulina Oduro’s response comes on the back of public scrutiny regarding her relationship status, with some speculating about her sexual orientation. She expressed disappointment that people could fabricate such claims simply because she has chosen to remain single.

    With a long-standing career in entertainment, Oduro has built a reputation as a bold and outspoken personality. She made it clear that she refuses to conform to societal expectations or entertain false narratives about her personal life.

  • ‘Your performance will be assessed on quality of investment, deepen partnerships among others’ – Mahama on envoy KPI

    ‘Your performance will be assessed on quality of investment, deepen partnerships among others’ – Mahama on envoy KPI

    President John Mahama has set up a system to evaluate Ghana’s ambassadors and high commissioners, requiring each mission abroad to show clear results in boosting the country’s economy and diplomacy.

    The aim is to ensure their work is accountable and makes a real difference.

    “We’ve introduced a new key performance indicator framework for all Ambassadors and High Commissioners. This framework brings clarity, fairness, and consistency to the evaluation of your performance as Ghanaian envoys.”

    President Mahama outlined the criteria that will be used to evaluate every envoy.

    “Your performance will therefore be assessed on: one, the volume and quality of investment and trade generated through your missions; two, the partnerships you initiate or deepen; three, the responsiveness and compassion of consular services to Ghanaians living abroad; four, the mobilisation of the Ghanaian diaspora for national development; and five, transparent, efficient management of public resources in your missions.”

    He said that the indicators are not intended to burden diplomats.

    “These key performance indicators are not meant to burden you; they are intended to empower you… and ensure that every mission contributes meaningfully to Ghana’s national development priorities.”

    The President also announced improved conditions of service, including a tax concession on vehicles for Foreign Service officers who complete their duty abroad.

    “Cabinet has approved a waiver of import duties and taxes on one vehicle for Foreign Service officers returning from overseas service. But there is a caveat, with an engine capacity not exceeding 2.7 litres. So if you are thinking of a V8, I’m sorry,” the President said.

    President Mahama stated that the Cabinet has set limits on housing costs for officers posted overseas to prevent overspending and ensure public funds are used wisely.

    “Financial discipline is integral to national renewal, and our missions must lead by example,” he said.

    Months ago, fifteen individuals took up roles as ambassadors, high commissioners, and consul-generals following their nomination by President John Dramani Mahama.

    This was announced by the Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama, in a letter dated June 10, 2025.

    Among the nominees are Benjamin A. Quashie for the Republic of South Africa, Kojo Bonsu for the People’s Republic of China, Kalsoume Sinare Baffoe for the Kingdom of Spain, Hammed Rashid Tunde Ali for the United Arab Emirates, Hon. Captain George Kofi Nfojoh for the Togolese Republic, and Grace El Mahmoud Marabe for the United Arab Emirates–Dubai.

    The others are Prof. Ohene Adjei for the Federal Republic of Germany, Abdul Nasiru-Deen for the Republic of Turkey, Theresah Adjei-Mensah for the Czech Republic, Prof. Kwasi Obiri-Danso for India, Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh, Ph.D., for Canada, Dr. Margaret Miewien Chebere for Denmark, Labik Joseph Yaani for Equatorial Guinea, Nii Amasah Namoale for the Federative Republic of Brazil, and Dr. Felix Kumah Godwin Anebo for the Republic of Senegal.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was required to initiate all required procedures to ensure the nominees’ appointments were successfully processed.

    Profile of the 15 nominees

    Benjamin Kofi Quashie is a prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist, founding the BKQ Foundation to support education, healthcare, and disability initiatives in the country. He chairs the NDC Council of Elders in South Africa and leads Allied Consortiums, demonstrating strong leadership in both political and business spheres. He is academically grounded with studies at the University of Ghana, LSE, and Robert Kennedy College; he brings a wealth of global insight to the diplomatic service.

    Kojo Bonsu is a seasoned public servant and businessman, having served as Kumasi’s Metropolitan Chief Executive (2013–2016) and as managing director of GOIL, where he led the company’s rebranding. He holds a diploma in Sports Business and Marketing through Adidas in Germany and speaks fluent French, giving him cross-cultural expertise. A former presidential aspirant for the NDC, Bonsu’s broad experience in governance, sports administration, and entrepreneurship positions him well for advancing Ghana-China relations

    Kalsoume Sinare Baffoe is a former model and a veteran actress who has appeared in over 50 films, notably Babina, Trinity, and Sala. She has won awards, including Golden Actress at the Golden Movie Awards. She holds a Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy from GIMPA (2023), following a first degree in Public Service and Governance (2021), demonstrating her academic commitment subsequent to a successful screen career. Known for her advocacy in women’s empowerment, education, and youth development, she brings a blend of cultural diplomacy and public engagement to her ambassadorial role.

    Hammed Rashid Tunde Ali is a distinguished figure in public service or business. Hammed Rashid Tunde Ali brings extensive experience in international relations and management. His career is expected to include leadership within commercial or diplomatic sectors relevant to Ghana–UAE ties. He is appointed to promote bilateral collaboration in trade, tourism, and investment between Ghana and the UAE.

    Capt. George Kofi Nfojoh is a respected Ghanaian politician who served as the member of parliament for the 4th parliament of the 4th republic of Ghana. He represented the National Democratic Congress of the Ho Central Constituency.  He was a captain and worked with the Public Relations Department of the Ghana Armed Forces. His career spans maritime or military roles, giving him insight into regional cooperation. He’ll be responsible for strengthening Ghana-Togo relations in areas of trade and regional diplomacy.

    Grace El Mahmoud Marabe brings a wealth of leadership experience both at home and abroad. She was voted Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2021 BlackExcellence Awards and named among the Top 10 Business Coaches by Herald Magazine in 2020. Her global engagement includes serving as a speaker at the 13th World Cancer Conference in Paris in 2019. From 2013 to 2016, she contributed to national policy as a Board Member of the Ghana Revenue Authority. Earlier, in 2008, she made history as an elected Virginia State Delegate for President Barack Obama.. 

    Professor Ohene Adjei is an esteemed academic who holds a senior faculty position in Ghana, with specialization likely in economics, science, or engineering. His scholarly work and leadership in higher education make him adept at promoting scientific, educational, and technological cooperation with Germany. His appointment reflects Ghana’s ambition to deepen ties in research and innovation.

    Abdul Nasiru‑Deen brings a professional background in diplomacy or international business. His skills and experience position him to foster stronger economic, cultural, and educational ties between Ghana and Turkey. His appointment is aligned with Ghana’s goals to diversify partnership in Eurasia.

    Theresah Adjei-Mensah is a seasoned diplomat and or an international relations expert. Her role will involve advancing Ghana–Czech interests in trade, tourism, and academic exchange. Her appointment signals Ghana’s growing outreach in Central Europe.

    Professor Obiri‑Danso is the former Vice‑Chancellor of KNUST, known for his expertise in biotechnology and higher education leadership. During his tenure, he enhanced KNUST’s research output and global linkages. His diplomatic role will emphasize educational partnerships, tech collaboration, and innovation between Ghana and India

    Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh is a seasoned development practitioner with advanced academic credentials and extensive public service experience. She has held leadership roles in academia or international NGOs, earning respect for her analytical and policy-making skills. Her appointment aims to deepen Ghana–Canada ties in education, migration, and diaspora engagement.

    Dr. Margaret Miewien Chebere is a public health specialist or international development expert with a Ph.D. and a strong record in project implementation. She has worked with development partners to enhance health systems and community resilience in Ghana. Her diplomat role will emphasize cooperation on health, climate change, and renewable energy.

    Labik Joseph Yaani is a senior Foreign Service officer with extensive experience in regional diplomacy. His expertise in West/Central African affairs positions him to manage relations with Equatorial Guinea. He is poised to advance Ghana’s interests in energy, regional security, and policy coordination.

    Nii Amasah Namoale has served as Ghana’s Minister for Food and Agriculture and as an MP, bringing extensive experience in agriculture, trade, and policy development. He is credited with advancing agricultural modernization and rural development. His role in Brazil will focus on strengthening cooperation in agribusiness, biofuels, and technical exchange.

    Dr. Felix Kumah Godwin Anebo is a medical doctor and former health official or public health specialist with advanced qualifications. His work has involved strengthening Ghana’s health systems, health security, or disease control initiatives. His diplomatic appointment to Senegal reflects Ghana’s commitment to regional collaboration in health and development.

  • I will dissolve GUM party and join the NDC if President Mahama does not fail – Osofo Kyiri Abosom

    I will dissolve GUM party and join the NDC if President Mahama does not fail – Osofo Kyiri Abosom

    Leader of the Osofo Kyiri Abosom Ministries and founder of the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), Osofo Kyiri Abosom, has vowed to dissolve his party and join the Nationla Democratic Congress if President Mahama continues to deliver on his promises to Ghanains.

    According to him, he will make that decision when the country is heading to the 2028 presidential polls.

    “He has done very well, and I am happy with his style of leadership. What he is doing right now will help the country. If John Mahama can continue his good work, I will put GUM on hold during election time and join the NDC,” he said.

    North Tongu’s Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has affirmed his confidence that the Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress, John Mahama, will fulfill the promised 24-hour economy policy.

    Ablakwa emphasized that this policy is the solution to Ghana’s economic challenges, as it prioritizes industrialization and job creation. He urged Ghanaians to unite in support of this initiative for the betterment of the country.

    “We have a transformational leader in former President Mahama, who is dynamic, who is visionary, who gets the job done. He is the one who gets results, so when he says he will deliver a 24-hour economy, you know you can trust him”, Mr. Ablakwa said while speaking to JoyNews at the NDC’s stand at the ongoing 6th Volta Trade and Investment Fair in Ho.

    Mr. Ablakwa emphasized the viability of implementing a 24-hour economy, citing examples from advanced nations and suggesting that Ghana could follow suit. He outlined the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) approach to this policy, highlighting the implementation of a 3-shift system for both public and private companies to sustain continuous economic activity.

    Ablakwa clarified that private enterprises participating in the 24-hour economy initiative would receive various incentives, including tax rebates and discounted utility rates, to facilitate the adoption of the proposed 3-shift system.

    Contrary to a claim by the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) that the 24-hour economy is already in practice, Ablakwa refuted this assertion. He dismissed the government’s 2024 budget, which focused on the night economy, as an incomplete policy introduced as an afterthought.

    “There is no 24-hour economy in practice, there is no such policy. I am a Member of Parliament, where is the blueprint, where is the policy, where is the legislation that is backing their so-called 24-hour economy? It doesn’t exist.

    “They continue with the dishonesty and the last time their candidate sought to confirm that this [24-hour economy] exists he was talking about chop bars, that there are a few chop bars operating at night. We [NDC] are not talking about Bawumia’s chop bars, we are talking about a whole economic transformation”, he stressed.

    Deputy National Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Osman Ayariga, has assured Ghanaians that the party, under the leadership of John Dramani Mahama, will fulfil all its promises if it wins the 2024 general elections.

    In a media interview on Tuesday, August 13, Ayariga emphasized the NDC’s commitment to tackling the critical issues facing the nation, especially those affecting the youth.

    Highlighting the NDC’s Youth Manifesto, Ayariga pointed out that the party has laid out key policies focused on job creation, improving education, and providing opportunities for young people.

    He assured that the party’s leadership is dedicated to fully implementing these policies, reinforcing the NDC’s track record of delivering on its promises when in government.

    “I understand the skepticism the launch of our youth manifesto has received, but you know we know the plan we have for this country, and we are committed to implementing all our promises for the benefit of the Ghanaian people. Ghanaians can trust us to deliver. We are not like the NPP. Visionary Mahama is committed and will deliver all his promises to Ghanaians,” Ayariga affirmed.

    Addressing the current economic challenges, Ayariga criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he described as “economic mismanagement,” which he believes has led to widespread hardship across the country.

    He argued that the NDC’s policies are designed to restore economic stability and bring relief to Ghanaians, particularly the most vulnerable.

    Ayariga also called on the youth to actively participate in the upcoming elections, urging them to vote for the NDC as the party that truly represents their interests.

    He emphasized the crucial role of young people in shaping the country’s future, stating that their support is essential for ensuring the NDC’s victory.

  • Hurricane Melissa disrupts schooling for children across the Caribbean

    Hurricane Melissa disrupts schooling for children across the Caribbean

    Nearly 477,000 children across Cuba, Haiti and Jamaica continue to face major disruptions to their education nearly three weeks after Hurricane Melissa swept through the Caribbean and caused widespread devastation.

    The storm, which moved across the region late last month, destroyed homes, damaged essential infrastructure and forced thousands of families into temporary shelters.

    One of the most significant and lingering impacts of the hurricane is the strain it has placed on already fragile education systems in the affected countries.

    A spokesperson for the United Nations explained that many schools in these countries are still damaged, unsafe or completely unable to hold classes. Some buildings remain flooded while others have lost roofs or have weakened structural elements that make them unsuitable for students. In many communities debris has blocked access routes to schools and some compounds require major repairs before children can return safely.

    As a result, thousands of students are missing classes or are learning in temporary locations that offer little stability or comfort. In some rural areas families are reluctant to send their children back because the facilities available do not meet basic safety standards.

    This situation means that close to half a million children are now learning in improvised spaces such as tents, churches, community centres or open areas that have been hastily arranged for lessons. These spaces generally lack chairs, tables, clean water, electricity or basic learning materials.

    Teachers are trying their best to keep lessons going but many say the absence of proper classrooms, books and equipment is making it extremely difficult. For younger children the lack of routine is also affecting their emotional well-being since the hurricane has already caused significant stress and uncertainty.

    UNICEF has begun working with the affected governments and local partners to assist children and teachers. The organisation is focusing on restoring education services, providing learning materials and identifying the areas that require the most urgent attention. These actions form part of a wider emergency response to ensure that the disruption caused by the hurricane does not evolve into a long-term learning crisis.

    In Cuba, UNICEF teams are preparing to distribute educational kits to about 21,000 students. The kits include writing materials, books and other basic supplies needed to support learning in temporary spaces. Many families lost most of their belongings during the storm, so the assistance is helping children who would otherwise have no materials to continue their education.

    In Haiti, the situation is more complicated. The country was already dealing with instability, economic challenges and previous disasters. UNICEF has managed to distribute nearly 3,000 school kits in the Sud and Nippes regions. These areas were hit hard by Hurricane Melissa and the kits have become an essential resource for families trying to keep their children engaged in learning. UNICEF says that more distributions are planned as assessments continue and more needs are identified.

    In Jamaica, flooding and infrastructure damage have made many schools unusable. UNICEF has worked with local authorities to set up around 100 temporary learning spaces. These spaces are supporting more than 10,000 children who cannot return to their regular classrooms. Education officials in the country describe the temporary structures as an important step toward restoring normal routines for children who are still dealing with the emotional impact of the disaster.

    The United Nations estimates that more than 5 million people across the three countries were affected by the hurricane. Many communities are still struggling with limited access to clean water, healthcare and electricity. Families who lost their homes are living in shelters or staying with relatives. For many children school is not only a place of learning but a place of safety and support. Returning to class provides them with structure, emotional comfort and access to services they cannot receive elsewhere.

    Experts warn that continued school closures could have long-lasting consequences on children’s learning. Previous studies have shown that extended interruptions often lead to poor academic performance, increased dropout rates and emotional stress. If the affected countries do not receive adequate support the consequences may follow children into adulthood and reduce their opportunities later in life.

    UNICEF emphasises that education is an essential part of disaster recovery. Schools represent more than buildings because they play a central role in children’s emotional and intellectual development. In many communities schools provide meals, counselling and supervised care. All of these services become even more important after a major emergency.

    Education officials in Cuba are working with humanitarian groups to restore school buildings, assess structural damage and prioritise repairs. Community members have also joined cleanup efforts to help clear debris from school compounds. Some schools may reopen soon but others will require more time depending on the severity of the damage.

    In Haiti rebuilding is more difficult due to insecurity and limited resources. Humanitarian organisations stress the importance of international support to ensure that learning does not stall. They also emphasise the need for coordinated planning to ensure safety for children and teachers.

    In Jamaica the recovery process has moved faster in some areas. Authorities are working to replace damaged learning materials, repair classrooms and support teachers affected by the storm. Counselling services have been added in several communities to help children who are still coping with trauma.

    As the region focuses on recovery the United Nations is urging global partners not to overlook the urgent needs of children. Although infrastructure rebuilding is essential, restoring education is equally critical because it affects the future of entire communities.

    UNICEF and other humanitarian groups say they will continue assisting affected communities over the coming months. They intend to support both immediate needs and long-term rebuilding efforts.

    For the hundreds of thousands of children who are still waiting for normal classes to resume these efforts may determine how quickly they can return to stable learning environments and how well they recover from the emotional and academic losses caused by Hurricane Melissa.

  • Nicki Minaj calls for global action on attacks against Christians in Nigeria at UN forum

    Nicki Minaj calls for global action on attacks against Christians in Nigeria at UN forum

    Trinidadian-American rapper Nicki Minaj took the stage at a high-profile United Nations forum in New York to highlight claims of increasing attacks on Christians in Nigeria and to call for urgent global action.

    Organisers say her appearance was arranged by Alex Bruesewitz, an adviser to US President Donald Trump. She spoke at a panel where US officials outlined the administration’s concerns about religious violence in the West African nation.

    Minaj began by admitting she felt nervous but grateful for the opportunity to address the forum. She thanked US Ambassador to the UN Michael Waltz and President Trump for prioritising the issue, describing her intervention as a moral duty rather than a partisan act.

    She told attendees that protecting worshippers everywhere is about “uniting humanity” and said her fans, the Barbz, “will never stand down in the face of injustice.”

    Her remarks combined personal reflection with vivid descriptions of churches destroyed, families torn apart, and communities living in fear.

    The appearance followed a flurry of comments from Washington that had already escalated tensions.

    In recent weeks, President Trump publicly accused the Nigerian government of failing to prevent attacks on Christians and instructed US agencies to prepare responses, including warnings of potential military action if the situation did not improve.

    Nigerian officials quickly responded, rejecting claims of state-backed persecution and stressing the country’s constitutional guarantees for religious freedom.

    US Ambassador Michael Waltz praised Minaj on social media, calling her “not only arguably the greatest female recording artist but also a principled individual who refuses to remain silent in the face of injustice.”

    He added that he looked forward to working alongside her as the US considered steps to protect persecuted Christians.

    Minaj said she was grateful for the chance to speak and emphasised that she did not take the invitation lightly.

    Gunmen launched an attack on a church in Nigeria, killing at least two people and abducting the pastor along with several worshippers, according to police and eyewitness accounts on Wednesday.

    Tuesday evening’s assault in Eruku, a community in Kwara state in central Nigeria, has intensified pressure on the government as U.S. President Donald Trump continues to criticise Nigeria over what he describes as persecution of Christians.

    President Bola Tinubu cancelled a scheduled visit to South Africa and Angola for the G20 and AU-EU summits so he could receive security updates on both incidents, his office announced.

    Tinubu also instructed the security agencies “to do everything possible” to rescue the schoolgirls “abducted by the bandits and bring the girls back home safe,” spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said.

    Speaking at the U.S. mission to the United Nations on Tuesday, rapper Nicki Minaj renewed calls for international action to protect religious freedom, stating that in Nigeria “Christians are being targeted, driven from their homes and killed.”

    Across the country, authorities continue to confront a long-running Islamist insurgency in the northeast, widespread kidnappings and killings by armed gangs in the northwest, and violent clashes between mostly Muslim herders and predominantly Christian farmers in central Nigeria.

    Police in Kwara reported that officers responding to gunfire around 6 p.m. on Tuesday found one victim shot inside the church and another in nearby bushes, according to state police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi.

    Eyewitnesses told Reuters they counted at least three church members dead.

    Parishioner Joseph Bitrus said by phone that “they later rounded up some worshippers, including the pastor, and took them into the bush,” though he did not specify how many were seized.

    A video shared by a local media outlet and verified by Reuters shows the Christ Apostolic Church service abruptly disrupted by gunfire, with worshippers scrambling for safety as armed men enter and seize belongings.

    Kwara’s governor has asked for an immediate increase in security deployments following the attack, his spokesperson confirmed.

    Authorities in Kebbi state are still searching for the schoolgirls taken on Monday when armed men raided the predominantly Muslim Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School. Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to travel there on Wednesday to meet families and local officials.

    In another tragic development earlier this year, six Christians in central Nigeria’s Benue state were killed and eight kidnapped in suspected Fulani herdsmen attacks across three villages.

    Adding to the carnage, the Akpanta killings in March 2025 saw armed herders torching churches Methodist, Anglican, and Catholic and homes in at least one village, forcing many Christians to flee.

    The Nigerian government, however, maintains the narrative that these are not purely religious attacks. Information Minister Mohammed Idris has said that using religion to frame the violence is “misinformation or faulty data,” arguing that extremism affects both Christians and Muslims.

    Nonetheless, analysts say the violence is deeply rooted in long-standing insecurity. Religious, ethnic, and resource-based tensions overlap especially in central Nigeria, where many of the farmers are Christian and the herders Muslim.

  • Shatta Wale is replicating my early days in music – Rex Omar

    Shatta Wale is replicating my early days in music – Rex Omar

    Ghanaian musician Shatta Wale has been commended by Rex Owusu Marfo, also known as Rex Omar, the Coordinator of Blackstar Experience, for his significant impact on modern Ghanaian music.

    Speaking on Prime Morning on Joy Prime television, Rex Omar noted that Shatta Wale embodies the same advocacy, energy, and vision he once championed to drive positive change in the creative industry.

    “I see myself in Shatta Wale,” he said. “He picked up what I started and took it to a different level. I’m proud that today, a Ghanaian musician, a Ghanaian creative, is finally receiving the attention we’ve been fighting for.”

    He said that the fame and respect Shatta Wale and other artists are receiving today come from years of efforts to promote their work, which the government is only now starting to acknowledge.

    “I’m grateful that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana are understanding the advocacy and taking action,” he noted.

    Rex Omar said he was glad to hear that the 2026 national budget included, for the first time, GH₵20 million for the Film Fund and another GH₵20 million for the Creative Arts Fund, showing increased support for the creative industry.

    “This is a step in the right direction,” he emphasised. 

    “We need to do more, but this seed funding can be leveraged to attract even greater investment into the industry,” he said.

    The current government has pledged to ensure that Ghana’s creative sector plays a major role in boosting the country’s overall economic output.

    Rex Omar has shared the three key legacies he hopes to leave behind during his tenure in support of Ghana’s creative industry.

    Speaking on TV3’s Showbiz 360 on Saturday, July 19, the veteran musician said he would like to see a second National Theatre built in Kumasi.

    He also expressed his hope that the music industry will boast a significant number of fully functional record labels capable of promoting Ghanaian music on the international stage.

    Rex Omar’s third ambition is for Ghana’s film industry to establish one or two world-class movie studios that meet Hollywood standards, attracting global attention to local productions.

    “I want to see a second National Theatre being built in Kumasi. I want to see about one, two or three stable record label company, well-resourced, that are competing to export Ghanaian music. I want to see a Hollywood standard studio built in Ghana so as to be able to draw global attention to Ghana to help our film industry,” he said.

    Rex Omar said he is still committed to defending musicians’ rights and ensuring fair royalties, and that his new position gives him more ability to support the cause, despite claims that he has stopped speaking out.

    “I am still a writer; I may not necessarily be in charge of GHAMRO, but they are still dealing with my songs and it is part of the creative economy. I am in a better position now to even help to make it better,” he said.

    The Black Star Experience is one of the government’s flagship programs aimed at growing the creative economy.

    Rex Omar, has been appointed as the Presidential Staffer for Blackstar Experience.

    Rex Omar confirmed the appointment to myjoyonline.com on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

    ‘The Black Star Experience’ is the NDC’s flagship Culture, Arts, and Tourism brand to redefine and affirm our Ghanaian identity, attract investments, create new jobs, and increase tourism. It will undertake a year-round celebration in all the major entertainment, artistic, and educational disciplines.

    Rex is a Ghanaian highlife musician who he has also trained as a management professional specialising in intellectual property rights being one of the leading authorities on the subject in Ghana. 

    He was elected as Chairman of GHAMRO (Ghana Music Rights Organization) in March 2017 to serve a four year-term and has been re- elected to serve a second term.

    His talent and knowledge of the music industry has gained him several positions in the industry as a former Vice President of the Copyright Society of Ghana and a member of the 2013 Committee for National Intellectual Property and Policy Strategy.

    He is the former head of Business and Finance of the Musician Union of Ghana. Rex Omar is a Member of “SUISSA” Copyright Society of Switzerland and is on publishing contract with EMI (Germany).

    On the political scene, Rex has been the advisor to President John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress on the importance and development of the creative arts in the cultural and entertainment industry in Ghana.

    He has also been the Party’s public spokesperson on matters relating to this industry.

    In February this year, Rex Omar, was appointed as the Presidential Staffer for Blackstar Experience.

    Rex Omar confirmed the appointment to myjoyonline.com on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

    ‘The Black Star Experience’ is the NDC’s flagship Culture, Arts, and Tourism brand to redefine and affirm our Ghanaian identity, attract investments, create new jobs, and increase tourism. It will undertake a year-round celebration in all the major entertainment, artistic, and educational disciplines.

    Rex is a Ghanaian highlife musician who he has also trained as a management professional specialising in intellectual property rights being one of the leading authorities on the subject in Ghana. 

    He was elected as Chairman of GHAMRO (Ghana Music Rights Organization) in March 2017 to serve a four year-term and has been re- elected to serve a second term.

    His talent and knowledge of the music industry has gained him several positions in the industry as a former Vice President of the Copyright Society of Ghana and a member of the 2013 Committee for National Intellectual Property and Policy Strategy.

    He is the former head of Business and Finance of the Musician Union of Ghana. Rex Omar is a Member of “SUISSA” Copyright Society of Switzerland and is on publishing contract with EMI (Germany).

    On the political scene, Rex has been the advisor to President John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress on the importance and development of the creative arts in the cultural and entertainment industry in Ghana.

    He has also been the Party’s public spokesperson on matters relating to this industry.

  • Student politics not trivial, it contributes to the kind of leaders we have today – Guru

    Student politics not trivial, it contributes to the kind of leaders we have today – Guru

    Musician-turned-student leader, Guru, has shared his reflections on how student politics unfolds and the lasting impact it has on individuals who eventually key national leaders.

    Having gone through the University of Ghana SRC presidential elections before emerging president, Guru said he assumed student politics would be just a “normal student’s game,” only to discover that the competition was deeply entrenched in serious political dynamics.

    “People think it’s just student politics, but look at Parliament; the President, the Speaker, many leaders all started from student governance. That’s where they learn the politics they use today,” he explained.

    The musician explained that the experience was so overwhelming that he is now thinking about creating a documentary to show what really happens behind student leadership elections, since most people have no idea what candidates endure.

    Guru noted that the experience was so intense that he is now considering produce what really happens behind student leadership contest pointing out that the public has little understanding of what candidates actually endure.

    He added that the ordeal has made him reconsider whether to pursue a career in mainstream politics in the future. Although he once hoped to work with the UN, the experience has compelled him to focus more on protecting his own well-being.

    “For now, I just have to think about my life,” he admitted, stressing that he must reflect carefully before deciding whether to enter active politics after school.

    The “Lapaz Toyota” hitmaker has told Myjoyonline’s Albert Kuzor on the university’s campus during an event last Thursday that the journey has been tough, balancing family and music.

    Nonetheless, he deeply cherishes every bit of it.

    Guru is swiftly back into music, preparing to drop a new track soon.

    “I have a new song called Ashawo, it will be coming out shortly, and hopefully I will be coming back for more content,” he stated.

    Meanwhile, gospel musician Reverend Christiana Twene, popularly known as Obaapa Christi, has clearly stated that she will not further her education due to mockery.

    The “Meti Ase” hit singer did not specify the level she would start from, but she feels she is too old to enroll in a school and take on the identity of a student again.

    Speaking to Andy Dosty on Hitz FM, the woman of God indicated that, “I am not shy to go back to school. But I am quite old and I will be made a mockery of, even though I will also make a mockery of them. However, I am trying to learn as much as I can.”

    Despite her reluctance, she is ready to employ other options to equip herself with any knowledge she lacks.

    “I am not going to enroll in school and officially become a student. But I can hire someone to teach me privately,” she said.

    Though she may struggle to sing an English song, Obaapa Christi sees nothing strange about it because she believes it’s the same way a white person struggles to sing a Twi song.

    The gospel musician said she strives to give her all in worship, as her struggle with fluent English cannot be a hindrance to her ministry progress.

    Obaapa Christi disclosed in an interview last year that she deliberately chose not to take her Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results after completing the exam.

    The artist explained that she had a feeling that she wouldn’t pass all the subjects and, as a result, opted not to return to the school to retrieve her results.

    Speaking with Roselyn Felli on Joy Prime’s Prime Morning, Obaapa Christy shared insights into her educational background, revealing her unconventional decision regarding the BECE results.

    “I reached JHS, but it’s not that I stopped; I wrote BECE, but I didn’t go for the results,” she said.

    “Did you pass”? Roselyn asked.

    “I didn’t even go for it to see whether I passed or not because I foresaw that I wouldn’t pass,” the singer replied.

    The “Hyebre Sesafo” and “W’asue Me,” hitmaker opened up about growing up underprivileged.

    She told Andy Dosty on Hitz FM, July 31, that she was not raised by parents who were well-to-do, as she had to sell ice water on the streets to survive.

    “I’m a poor man’s child. I’m a shoemaker’s daughter and I used to be a hawker. My mother used to sell thrift clothes, I move from one village to another to sell them. I even sold ice water and ice-kenkey.”

    “When I close from school, I used to peddle oranges’ and I’ve sold a lot of things. We used to live in a single room” she said.

    She added, “My parents gave birth to nine children, and I was the second born. I’ve really suffered but I’m not a lazy woman. I worked so hard to get to where I am today.”

    Gospel artist Celestine Donkor recently opened up about her upbringing during the ‘Grass to Grace’ edition of Just Being Us.

    She recounted the challenges of growing up in a compound house alongside 11 neighbors, where her parents raised a total of 15 children in a single hall and chamber.

    In a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Celestine shared how her mom worked tirelessly to provide for the family, ensuring that all her children were well-fed despite their limited resources.

    She fondly recalled a particular pot that her mother used for cooking, which her siblings affectionately dubbed the “miracle pot.”

    “It was not easy for parents like mine to take care of 15 siblings. I remember how we all had to eat from one pot. There is a particular pot my mom cooked in. At a point, we all agreed it was a miracle pot because when she had 7 kids, the pot was full and enough for everyone. We were 15, and the same pot was full and was enough for everyone, so we called it a miracle pot.”

    Celestine also discussed the financial struggles her family faced, noting that her mother engaged in various forms of petty trading to support them.

    “My mom did everything to make sure we were fed, like selling everything. I do not know what my mom hasn’t sold in this life.”

    Reflecting on her childhood memories, she described the experience of sleeping on a couch in their cramped living situation.

    “I grew up in a compound house. It was like 12 different families in one compound at Flat Top, Abeka. I remember very well, it was a chamber and hall, so I grew up sleeping on a couch. I thought the couch was actually the bed. It was strange for me, later in life, to have my own bed.”

    The gospel musician also recounted her upbringing in a crowded compound house where she lived alongside 11 neighbors while her parents raised a total of 15 children.

    Reflecting on the challenges of her childhood, she praised her mother for her unwavering dedication to ensuring that her family was well-fed despite their difficult circumstances.

    She recalled how her siblings and she were amazed at how one particular pot seemed to have miraculous qualities.

    “It was not easy for parents like mine to take care of 15 siblings. I remember how we all had to eat from one pot. There is a particular pot my mom cooked in. At a point, we all agreed it was a miracle pot because when she had 7 kids, the pot was full and enough for everyone. We were 15, and the same pot was full and was enough for everyone, so we called it a miracle pot.” she shared.

    Celestine also highlighted the financial struggles her family faced, which compelled her mother to take on various small trading ventures to support the household.

    “My mom did everything to make sure we were fed, like selling everything. I do not know what my mom hasn’t sold in this life.”

    Nostalgically, she recalled the crowded living conditions in their home, where sleeping arrangements were quite limited.

    “I grew up in a compound house. It was like 12 different families in one compound at Flat Top, Abeka. I remember very well, it was a chamber and hall, so I grew up sleeping on a couch. I thought the couch was the bed. It was strange for me, later in life, to have my own bed.”

    Renowned musician King Paluta shared insights into his upbringing during an interview on The Delay Show aired on March 23, 2024.

    He was raised by his mother for the nineteen years (19) in the absence of his father.

    He humorously likened his family dynamics to biblical figures, jestingly referring to himself as ‘Jesus.’

    Drawing parallels, he highlighted his mother’s name, Mary, and his father’s name, Joseph, alongside his birth out of wedlock.

    “I didn’t see my father often,” he said. “I think I was raised by a single mother. Before I was born, my parents weren’t married. When I came into the world, my dad was away. He was in Ghana, but we had no idea of his whereabouts.”

    The musician recalled his first encounter with his father when he visited their home, revealing that he was approximately nineteen years old at the time.

    “It wasn’t until I was 19 or 20 years old that I met him,” said King Paluta. “He came to my mother, and she discussed marriage with him. My father was the only man my mother had.”

    He recounted that throughout this period, his mother consciously chose not to pursue relationships with other men. However, he remained uncertain about her specific reasons, speculating that “her interest in men dwindled after the separation, leading her to prioritize her children.”

    King Paluta shared that his father passed away in 2022, but before his death, there had been a reconciliation between his parents.

    Reflecting on his musical journey, King Paluta disclosed that he penned his debut song in 2004, demonstrating his dedication to music by investing his school fees in studio sessions.

    Today, he has emerged as a respected musician, with his tracks amassing significant views. His notable works include ‘Aha Akye,’ featuring Samini, ‘Sika Aba Fie,’ ‘YaHitte,’ and ‘Aseda.’

  • “I will sign it” – President Mahama as he awaits parliamentary approval on anti-LGBTQ bill

    “I will sign it” – President Mahama as he awaits parliamentary approval on anti-LGBTQ bill

    President John Dramani Mahama has confidently stated that he will sign anti-LGBTQ bill once it is successfully approved by parliament.

    During a courtesy visit by the Christian Council of Ghana on Tuesday, November 18, at Jubilee House, the president mentioned all the factors that must come to play for him to assent to the bill.

    “I believe that we have no questions or equivocations about what we believe. I believe that we are completely aligned with the Christian Council in terms of your belief. We agree with the Speaker to relay the bill and let Parliament debate it.”

    “And if there are any amendments or adjustments that need to be made, if the people’s representatives in Parliament endorse the bill, vote on it, and pass it, and it comes to me as president, I will sign it,” President Mahama said.

    The controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ bill, has been reintroduced in Parliament, according to Assin South MP, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour.

    In an interview with The Independent Ghana on Thursday, February 27, Ntim Fordjour urged President John Dramani Mahama to sign the bill into law if Parliament approves it again.

    He emphasized that the legislation reflects Ghanaian cultural values and called for swift action to ensure its implementation.

    The bill, which aims to outlaw LGBTQ+ activities and criminalize their promotion, advocacy, and funding, was previously passed by the 8th Parliament. However, it did not receive Presidential assent under former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s tenure.

    President John Dramani Mahama has declared that the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, formally known as the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, is no longer active, as it expired with the previous Parliament’s session.

    Speaking during a meeting with clergy, Mahama clarified the bill’s current status, explaining, “As far as I know, the bill did not get to the President for assent. And so the convention is that all bills that are not assented to before the expiration of the life of Parliament expired, and so that Bill is effectively dead, it has expired.”

    He underscored the importance of reinitiating discussions on the bill, suggesting a collaborative review process. “I do think that we should have a conversation on it again, so that all of us, if we decide to move that bill forward, moving forward with a consensus,” Mahama stated.

    Proposing a shift in the bill’s sponsorship, the former president argued that it should no longer be introduced as a private member’s bill but rather receive formal government backing. “I don’t know what the promoters of the bill want to do, but we should have a conversation about it again… probably it shouldn’t be a private members bill. It should be a government bill with government behind it after consultation with all the stakeholders to see how to move this forward,” he noted.

    Before his return to office, Mahama had already expressed a cautious approach toward the bill, emphasizing the need for a constitutional review. Speaking with BBC Africa on December 4, he elaborated: “It is not an anti-LGBTQI Bill; it is a Family Values Bill. It was approved unanimously by our Parliament. [LGBTQI] is against our African culture, it is against our religious faith, but I think we must look at the Bill, and the president must indicate what he finds wrong with that bill and send it back to Parliament or alternatively he must send it to the Council of State and get the Council of State’s advice.”

    When asked if he would sign the bill into law if elected, Mahama responded cautiously, stating, “It depends on what is in the Bill.” He emphasized that any decision would be based on a thorough examination of the bill’s content and legal compliance. “That is what I would have done,” he affirmed.

    The non-existent Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill sought to criminalize LGBTQ+ activities, including the promotion and funding of related advocacy efforts. If reintroduced and passed, the bill would impose sanctions on individuals and organizations supporting LGBTQ+ causes.

    While proponents argue the bill is necessary to safeguard Ghanaian cultural and moral values from external influences, human rights advocates have raised concerns, stating it infringes on freedoms of expression, association, and equality under the law.

    The bill previously faced legal opposition from journalist Richard Dela Sky and academic Dr. Amanda Odoi, who contested its passage, citing a lack of parliamentary quorum. The Supreme Court, however, dismissed their challenge, with Justice Lovelace Johnson clarifying that a bill can only be subject to constitutional scrutiny after receiving presidential assent.

  • OSP takes formal legal action against Ofori-Atta, SML, and six others

    OSP takes formal legal action against Ofori-Atta, SML, and six others

    The Special Prosecutor has officially filed charges against former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, SML, and six others, signaling a major step in the corruption case.

    This move comes after President John Mahama directed that all SML-linked contracts be cancelled on October 31.

    His directive followed the OSP’s announcement that it had completed its investigation into the deals, which had generated widespread public concern.

    However, according to a statement released by the Superior Court of Judicature, OSP formally charges Ofori-Atta, SML and the six others have been charged for “conspiracy to commit the criminal offence of directly or indirectly influencing the procurement process to obtain an unfair advantage in the award of a procurement contract, contrary to section 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and section 92(2)(b) of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663).”

    “Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, 66 years, in your position as the Minister of Finance. Emmanuel Kofi Nti, 66 years, in your position as Acting Commissioner-General of Ghana Revenue Authority. Evans Adusei, 62 years, beneficial owner, Chief Executive and controlling mind of Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited.”

    Weeks ago, The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyepong, has concluded that there was “no genuine need” for the controversial revenue assurance contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and SML (Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited).

    In a highly detailed press briefing following a comprehensive investigation, the OSP mentioned critical findings that exposed systemic breaches of public financial regulations and a clear misuse of authority that caused the state to lose money.

    “There was no genuine need for contracting SML for the obligations it’s purported to perform,” the Special Prosecutor declared.

     Mr Agyebeng has solidified the case against the contentious Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) contract, alleging that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta approved payments without any technical or operational justification.

    According to the OSP, Ofori-Atta failed to intervene even though SML openly lacked the necessary capacity, expertise, and tools to execute its contract. Instead, he allegedly remained complicit, approving payments from the Consolidated Fund, the Petroleum Revenue Account, and the Tax Refund Account.

    The OSP’s investigation concluded, “Had he not been personally benefiting from the SML’s unlawfully procured contracts, the openly displayed by SML of a lack of capacity’s expertise and tools would have immediately triggered his intervention to halt payments to SML and demand accountability. Instead, he looked on conspiratorially in silence, while endorsing and approving payments to SML from the Consolidated Fund, Petroleum Revenue Account, and Tax Refund Account with no technical or operational basis,” the OSP said during a press conference on Thursday, October 30.

    The OSP’s findings expose SML’s clear inability to perform the revenue assurance services it was contracted for, which included key responsibilities such as transaction audits and external price verification.

    According to the investigation, the continuous “troubleshooting displayed during this period was born of the unlawful imposition of SML in the space and the still lingering reality of SML’s lack of capacity to carry out transaction audits and external price verification.”

    Even after 15 months of engagement, SML reportedly “had no system in place to receive CCVRs” (customs control and valuation records), the essential data needed to execute its tasks. Additionally, the existing data provider, West Blue, was under “no legal obligation to release the vital data” to SML.

    As a result, the assigned work remained uncompleted, yet the company “continued to be paid,” reinforcing the OSP’s conclusion that the situation led to a financial loss to the state.

    It is important to note that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been declared wanted by the OSP for causing financial loss to the state in several dealings, including the contractual arrangement between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the Ghana Revenue Authority for the stated objective of enhancing revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector, upstream petroleum production, and minerals and metals resource value chain.

    The activities of SML came to light years ago after Manasseh Azure Awuni raised contractual breaches in a deal involving the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    The original purpose of the GRA-SML contract was to boost revenue assurance in vital sectors of Ghana’s economy, including the downstream petroleum sector, upstream petroleum production, and the minerals and metals value chain. The goal was to streamline revenue collection, ensuring greater transparency and efficiency in these high-revenue sectors.

    Following concerns, an in-depth audit was carried out by international firm KPMG, commissioned by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The audit was launched to examine the contractual agreements between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and SML, with a particular focus on the procedures and approvals related to the contract.

    The KPMG audit uncovered significant procedural errors and regulatory violations in awarding the contract. Specifically, the GRA did not obtain the required approvals from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) and failed to seek parliamentary oversight before finalising the agreement with SML.

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) entered into six service agreements with Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) using the single-source procurement method without obtaining approval from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA).

    The first agreement, covering Transaction Audit Services, was signed on June 1, 2018. This was followed by a Contract Extension on January 1, 2019. On April 1, 2019, the GRA entered into another agreement with SML for External Price Verification Services. Subsequently, on October 3, 2019, the two parties signed a Consolidation Services Agreement, which combined the Transaction Audit and External Verification Services.

    That same day, a separate agreement was also signed for the Measurement Audit of Downstream Petroleum Products. Later, on July 29, 2020, an Addendum to the Measurement Audit for Downstream Petroleum Products Agreement was executed.

    The audit report also revealed that SML owes the government over GHC31 million in taxes.

    During the period from September 1, 2020, to April 30, 2021, a bulk payment to SML covering invoices for eight months did not have VAT and WHT deductions, amounting to GHC13.38 million. This contradicts GRA’s standard practice of deducting such taxes for payments to SML between June 1, 2020, and August 31, 2023.

    Additionally, SML failed to fulfil its statutory obligations by neither filing returns nor remitting these taxes to the GRA. Pursuant to Section 71(1) of the RA Act, the accrued interest on the tax liability is estimated at GHC18.50 million owed by SML to the GRA as of January 31, 2024. Consequently, the total liability incurred by SML amounts to GHC31.88 million.

  • State funeral for Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings set for Nov 28 at Black Star Square

    State funeral for Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings set for Nov 28 at Black Star Square

    Oheneba Akwasi Abayie, Abusua Panyin of the family of the late Former First Lady Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings, has announced that her final funeral rites will be held on Friday, 28th November 2025, at the Independent Square.

    At a briefing held on November 18 to outline the official programme, venues, dates, and all activities associated with honouring the memory of the late stateswoman, Oheneba Akwasi Abayie indicated that;

    “I am here on behalf of the family to inform you of the arrangements that have been prepared for the burial and funeral of the Nana Agyeman Rawlings, slated for Friday, November 28, 2025. Funeral activities will commence at 6 a.m. with the of arrival of the cortege (refers to the arrival of the funeral procession) at Independence Square.”

    The family head also mentioned that black is the colour of cloth recommended for all Ghanaians preparing to attend the funeral.

    “The official attire that the family recommends is black and there will be no official clothes. Come in your black as much as possible,” Oheneba Akwasi Abayie indicated.

    He added that the funeral at the square is open to the general public, and the public is hereby invited to participate fully.

    “Security and protocol officials will direct all mourners to their seats. The funeral ceremony, on Friday 28th November, will be the final funeral rites, and there will be no other funeral ceremony elsewhere once the burial service closes at the independent square,”

    Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings was confirmed dead by the Presidency in a press statement on Thursday, October 23. She passed away at the age of 76.

    The cause of her death is yet to be made known. However, reports suggested that she died at the Ridge Hospital in Accra in the early hours of Thursday. Meanwhile, the Rawlings family and government representatives have yet to issue an official statement regarding her passing at the time of this report.

    Born on November 17, 1948, in Cape Coast to the late J.O.T. Agyeman and his wife, Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings served as the First Lady of Ghana from June 4, 1979, to September 24, 1979, during the presidency of Jerry John Rawlings.

    She held the same position again from December 31, 1981, to January 7, 2001. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design at the University of Science and Technology (now KNUST), after specialising in Textiles. She furthered her education at the London College of Arts, where she obtained a Diploma in Interior Design.

    Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings did not stop there; she went on to pursue a Diploma in Advanced Personnel Management from Ghana’s Management Development and Productivity Institute in 1979. At GIMPA, she received a Certificate in Development. She later attended Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, USA, where she pursued a Senior Fellow Diploma in Policy Studies.

    Prior to her involvement in politics and social activism, she worked with the Ghana Tourist Board, the Union Trading Company (UTC) in Accra, and several other organizations.

    As a formidable advocate for women’s rights and social justice, she founded the 31st December Women’s Movement in 1982. The influential non-governmental movement aimed at promoting women’s education, economic empowerment, and legal reforms. Through Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings’ efforts, the Intestate Succession Law (PNDCL 111) was enacted to protect the inheritance rights of widows and children.

    In Ghanaian politics, she is recognized as the founder of the National Democratic Party (NDP), through which she ran for president in 2016. She was succeeded by Mohammed Frimpong, who led the party after she stepped down in 2024.

    She parted ways with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2012, following her defeat to the late President John Atta Mills in the party’s 2011 flagbearer race. She was elected as the NDC’s First Vice Chairperson in 2009.

    In 2018, she launched her book titled It Takes a Woman, which captures her journey in politics and advocacy. Scores of Ghanaians have poured in with their tributes following her passing.

    Recently, she was seen at the Forecourt of the Jubilee House to honour the eight public servants who passed away following the helicopter crash that occurred on August 6 at Adansi in the Ashanti Region. She was also spotted during the Dote Yie funeral rites for the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.

    Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings got married to the late Jerry John Rawlings in 1977 after they both met at Achimota School. The couple had four children — three daughters and one son.

    Their children include Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, a medical doctor and Member of Parliament for the Klottey Korle Constituency; Kimathi Rawlings; Yaa Asantewaa Rawlings; and Amina Rawlings. Unfortunately, Jerry John Rawlings passed away in November 2020 at the age of 73. He was confirmed dead after a short illness at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

    Mrs. Nana Konadu Rawlings’ death comes at a time when the country is still recovering from the loss of eight victims in the tragic military helicopter crash. The deceased included Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator in charge of Human Security, Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed; Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Samuel Sarpong; and Deputy Director-General of NADMO, Samuel Aboagye.

    Others included Squadron Leader Peter Analaa of the Ghana Air Force, Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force, and Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.

    Meanwhile, investigations into the Z-9 helicopter crash have officially begun following the establishment of an investigative board, as announced by the Ministry of Defence.

    The board is chaired by the National Security Coordinator, with members drawn from the Ghana Air Force and the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

    President John Mahama earlier disclosed that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders of the Z-9 Air Force helicopter had been retrieved. He made this announcement during his national address on Thursday, August 7, a day after the incident.

    In the United States, the authority responsible for investigating aircraft accidents is the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The NTSB is an independent federal agency mandated by Congress to investigate every civil aviation accident in the U.S. as well as significant incidents in other modes of transportation, including railroad, transit, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space.

    Since its establishment in 1967, the NTSB has investigated more than 153,000 aviation accidents and thousands of surface transportation events. Its mission is to determine probable causes, examine safety issues, and develop recommendations to prevent similar accidents in the future.

    To date, the Board has issued more than 15,500 safety recommendations to over 2,470 recipients, with an implementation rate of 82 percent for the more than 12,700 recommendations that have been closed.

    In Ghana, the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB) is responsible for investigating plane crashes. On July 6, 2020, former President Nana Akufo-Addo granted executive approval for the laying before Parliament of the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Prevention Bureau Bill, 2020.

    The bill sought to establish an autonomous Bureau to conduct investigations into aircraft accidents and incidents in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

  • Police arrest man caught beating his naked wife in viral video

    Police arrest man caught beating his naked wife in viral video

    The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has arrested a man captured in a viral Facebook video physically assaulting a woman believed to be his wife at their residence at Ofankor in the Ga East Municipality.

    The suspect, identified as John Odartey Lamptey, was arrested on Monday, November 17th 2025, at the family residence.

    According to a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo on November 18, two of the suspects’ siblings attempted to attack a female tenant due to their suspicion that she recorded the incident that drew the attention of authorities.

    “Following his arrest, two of his siblings, Grace Kushie Lamptey and Louis Odartey Lamptey, who attempted to attack a female tenant they suspected of recording and circulating the video, were also arrested, and the tenant was rescued to ensure her safety.”

    On the other hand, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has strongly condemned the violent assault describing it as an act that infringes on the victim’s rights, and it is highly punishable by law.

    In a statement, the Ministry stressed that no individual has the right to subject another person to any form of abuse under any circumstances.

    “The Minister has also reached out to the Ghana Police Service to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted and justice is served. We also encourage eyewitnesses with vital information to assist law enforcement agencies immediately,” a part of the statement read.

    Meanwhile, efforts are underway to locate and ensure the safety of the wife who had fled the scene before the Police arrived.

    The Ghana Police Service emphasized that it remains committed to protecting victims of domestic violence and ensuring that perpetrators face the full rigour of the law.

    A disturbing video also made the airwaves and prompted the intervention of the military police last month. It was a CCTV footage, which showed a man of muscular build assaulting a young male pharmacist and a young woman in a pharmacy.

    The incident, which took place at Burma Camp in Accra, came to light late on Wednesday, October 29. In the widely circulated video footage, the tall, dark-complexioned, angry man was seen slapping the pharmacist.

    The abuser, whose name has been given as Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Mensah Williams of the Ghana Air Force, was further seen attacking the woman with several blows to her head after she attempted to record the incident. Despite attempts by bystanders to intervene, Mensah Williams continued the assault.

    In response to the appalling incident, the military police have arrested Mensah Williams. He is in the custody of the Cantonments Police for further investigation and possible prosecution. The video has since sparked intense debate on social media, with scores of Ghanaians calling for swift and firm disciplinary action against the soldier.

    According to reports, the assaulted lady is the daughter of the former Provost Marshal of the Military Police. The Provost is essentially a senior military officer responsible for law enforcement, discipline, and security within the armed forces. He coordinates and oversees all investigations into crimes involving military personnel.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has condemned the act, assuring “the general public that it will not condone any acts of assault on civilians and will not shield any soldier engaged in such.”

    In recent years, Ghana has recorded several assaults by security personnel, particularly those affiliated with the military. Earlier this month, residents of Bawku in the Upper East Region recounted terrifying encounters with military personnel, accusing them of using guns, stones, and metal objects to assault civilians during a late-night operation.

    On the night of Tuesday, March 18, heavily armed soldiers reportedly stormed homes in Bawku, conducting forced searches and physically assaulting residents. This military action is said to have been triggered by the fatal shooting of a Ghana Armed Forces officer on Monday, March 17. Reports indicate that the officer was ambushed and killed by unidentified gunmen while walking on foot.

    In July, the statue of the Bawku Naba, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, was allegedly destroyed by some members of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) during a confrontation with locals in Bawku, Upper East Region.

    The statue, which was erected in 2024 in honour of the Zugraan (Overlord) of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Asigri Abugrago Azoka II—a culturally revered figure in Bawku—served as a strong emblem of tradition and communal pride.

    The reconstruction of the statue is expected to begin in the coming days following a directive from His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama. Then Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, in collaboration with other security agencies, was tasked with overseeing the process as well as restoring calm in the area.

    This information was made known by the then Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, at a durbar with all ranks of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) at the Burma Camp on Wednesday, July 17.

    “To assure that His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, the Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), remains committed to bringing an end to decades-old conflict.

    “To address the recent happenings, the National Security Coordinator, myself, the Minister for the Interior, the Chief of the Defence Staff, and the IGP have all been tasked to play coordinated but differentiated roles to ensure that peace and calm are restored immediately, and this includes the restoration of the statue of the Zugraan of the Kusasis Traditional Area,” he added.

    The recent altercation in Bawku has reportedly led to the deaths of five locals. On Tuesday, July 15, some Members of Parliament in the Upper East area called for the prosecution of the soldiers involved and compensation for the victims.

    Last month, a police-led intelligence operation resulted in the arrest of five individuals accused of trafficking 57 Nigerian nationals into Ghana under false pretences, linking them to a broader human trafficking and cybercrime scheme.

    The suspects, identified as Joel Nosa, Collins Rotimi, Shadrack Lulu, Austin Amahuaro, and John Uloko, were picked up on Wednesday, October 22, during an operation by the CID’s Operations Unit at Adom Estates, Community 25, according to a statement from the Ghana Police Service.

    Investigations so far indicate that the group belongs to a well-coordinated trafficking network that lured young Nigerians to Ghana with false promises of employment or educational opportunities.

    Upon arrival, however, the victims, aged 18 to 26, were reportedly forced into online romance scams and other forms of cybercrime.

    During the raid, officers recovered 77 assorted laptops, 38 mobile phones, two vehicles, three television sets, and several internet-enabled devices believed to have been used in the illegal activity. All items are undergoing forensic analysis.

    All 57 victims are currently receiving medical attention, psychosocial care, and temporary shelter under the supervision of the appropriate agencies.

    The statement added that the suspects are in police custody assisting with further investigations.

    The Ghana Police Service has also cautioned the public, especially young people, to be wary of enticing offers of jobs, education, or travel made through social media and other unverified channels.

    “We caution the general public to remain vigilant about offers of employment, educational opportunities, or travel arrangements made through social media or other unverified sources,” the statement read.

    The Service reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking, cybercrime, and related offences, and urged the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

  • OgeeTheMC ruined our relationship with Kasapreko – Wendy Shay

    OgeeTheMC ruined our relationship with Kasapreko – Wendy Shay

    Ghanaian musician Wendy Shay has stated that popular Hyneman, OgeeTheMC ruined her team’s relationship with alcoholic brand known as Kaspreko during the early stages of her career.

    Wendy Shay claimed that OgeeTheMC, a former member of her team, allegedly absconded with funds meant to organise her first-ever concert.

    This she said, affected her emotionally and ruined her relationship with Kasapreko, who was probably one of her sponsors.

    “I told Bullet to hire OgeeTheMC as my road manager, and because of that, we asked him to take care of the stage and lighting… We gave Ogee the money to pay for the stage. Can you imagine that when we got to the place, there was no one there?

    “When we got there, the lights and everything were off. He (OgeeTheMC) was the one who flopped the show. Even when I got to the scene, I couldn’t stand because my legs were shaking. My team had to hold my hands to prevent me from falling. It even ruined the relationship we had with Kasapreko,” she said in a discussion on Showtyn shared on Instagram on November 17, 2025.

    Wendy Shay also explained how the incident negatively affected a major deal she was working on.

    According to her, she was on the verge of signing a makeup contract worth about $50,000; however, due to what OgeeTheMC did, the brand refused to sign her as a brand ambassador.

    “Before we even began the show, an Indian makeup brand wanted to sign me as their brand ambassador, and they agreed to pay $50,000. But because we wanted more, Bullet told them they should come to the event. He told them their presence at the event might even compel them to pay me $100,000, and they agreed,” she added.

    Watch the video below:

  • You will become a divorcee if I decide to get married – Delay tells Netizen

    You will become a divorcee if I decide to get married – Delay tells Netizen

    Ghanaian media personality and socialite Deloris Frimpong Manso, popularly known as Delay,  has responded to a netizen who criticized her and dismissed her achievements simply because she is not married.

    However, in response, she indicated that once she makes the decision to get married, that netizen will likely become a divorcee.

    “Some ladies boldly say my achievements are irrelevant and that I should focus on getting married and having children. But do you really think that if I put up a poster in town saying I’m looking for a man to marry and have kids with, your husband wouldn’t leave you for me? I don’t know but this is too much,” she said in a video on Instagram.

    Ghanaian playwright, author, and motivational speaker, Uncle Ebo Whyte, has advised bachelors and bachelorettes not to allow themselves to be forced into marriage to satisfy societal, family, or peer pressure, emphasizing that marriage is not a requirement in life.

    “Marriage is not given to everybody. Not everybody needs to marry. Not everybody will marry. Marriage is not a magic wand. It may not deliver half of what you expect.

    So if you do choose to marry, do so because you’ve found someone with whom you genuinely want to build a life, not because society says you must,” he noted.

    Taking to his social media (Instagram) yesterday, the playwright in a video boldly challenged the longstanding norm, which asserts the need for everyone to marry, citing evolution and the growth surrounding the purpose of marriage.

    “There was a time when everybody needed to marry. That time has changed. There was a time when there was a purpose of marriage. That time has changed. There was a time when we needed to marry. That time has changed. It’s not now,” he said.

    He affirmed his stance, drawing biblical references to the teachings of Apostle Paul, which admonished that “He who marries does well. He who does not marry does even better.”

    In Ghanaian society and beyond, procreation is often emphasised to ‘pressure’ people into marriage, but Uncle Ebo Whyte argues that population control, coupled with family planning, has shifted that cultural expectation.

    “Because now we are saying there are too many people. Let’s control the population, citing his 42-year-old marriage as companionship as well. Then there’s the issue of companionship. I’ve been married for 42 years. Companionship,” he said.

    He also warned against entirely romanticising marriage, saying that it’s a commitment that requires “hard work, patience, humility, and respect,” not just love.

    Uncle Ebo reminded his audience that people can live happy lives without being married and that marital status does not define one’s values.

    “You are complete with or without marriage. Some of the most fulfilled people I know never married, and that’s perfectly okay,” he said.

  • President Mahama swears in Baffoe-Bonnie as new Chief Justice

    President Mahama swears in Baffoe-Bonnie as new Chief Justice

    President John Dramani Mahama has officially sworn in Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the new Chief Justice.

    Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was officially sworn into office on Monday, November 17, 2025, at a ceremony held at the Jubilee House.

    He is now mandated to occupy the seat of the former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, who was dismissed by the President.

    The ceremony was attended by high-ranking dignitaries, including the Vice President, members of the Council of State, the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, the leadership of Parliament, and a full complement of Supreme Court Justices, alongside the new Chief Justice’s immediate family.

    President Mahama, in his address, hailed Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s valuable experience and commitment to the rule of law, urging him to prioritise judicial independence and the accelerated disposition of cases.

    Accepting the mantle of leadership, the new Chief Justice took the prescribed oaths and immediately outlined his vision for the third arm of government, centred on comprehensive institutional reform.

    A Distinguished Career of Service and Scholarship

    Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s rise to the apex of the Judiciary is the culmination of a distinguished career.

    Educated at the University of Ghana School of Law and receiving a specialised Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Constitutional Theory from Oxford University, he has built a reputation as a scholar and a fearless jurist.

    Key Career Highlights and Data:

    • Judicial Tenure: Appointed to the High Court in 1993, the Court of Appeal in 2005, and the Supreme Court in 2012.
    • Legal Specialization: Widely recognised for his expertise in Constitutional Law and Human Rights Jurisprudence.
    • Supreme Court Contribution: Authored 87 majority opinions on the Supreme Court, with a notable focus on land ownership disputes and electoral petitions.

    His appointment is expected to bring a stabilising influence to the Judiciary, offering steady leadership grounded in decades of practical experience and deep legal scholarship.

    The nation now looks to the new Chief Justice to drive the necessary reforms that will ensure timely and accessible justice for all citizens.

    Parliament after several deliberations, approved the nomination of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s Chief Justice.

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, confirmed his approval on Thursday, November 11, during the 15th Sitting of the 3rd meeting.

    “This Honorable House has accordingly approved the nomination of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice of the Republic, in accordance with Article 114 clause 1 of the 1992 Constitution respectively.

    “I will want to take this opportunity to, on behalf of the House, congratulate the nominee on his approval by Parliament. I urge the nominee to take all that has happened right up from the day of the nomination up to his prior approval by Parliament into consideration in his tenure of office. Once again, congratulations,” he added.

    Parliament concluded his nomination after a headcount, with the Majority in Parliament counting 163 and the Minority 69.

    On Monday, November 10, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament for his vetting.

    In October, President John Dramani Mahama submitted Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s name to the Council of State for consideration in accordance with Article 144(1) of the Constitution, which requires the President to act in consultation with the Council of State and with Parliament’s approval when appointing a Chief Justice.

    Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior member of the Supreme Court, was appointed to the apex court in June 2008 by then-President John Agyekum Kufuor. He studied law at the University of Ghana and was called to the Bar in 1983. His judicial career spans roles as a Circuit Court Judge in Kumasi, a High Court Judge at Duayaw Nkwanta, and a Court of Appeal Judge before his elevation to the Supreme Court.

    Born on December 26, 1956, in Goaso, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie had his secondary education at Konongo Odumase Secondary School before pursuing law at the University of Ghana and the Ghana Law School.

    However, speaking on the floor of Parliament on Friday, November 7, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin said it would be inappropriate to proceed with the vetting of Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie while the former Chief Justice awaits a court verdict on her pending lawsuit.

    In October, Gertrude Torkornoo initiated legal action to prevent the vetting and appointment of Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as Ghana’s next Chief Justice. She is seeking the nullification of all activities carried out by the Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang Committee, which was set up under Article 146 to review petitions seeking her removal from office.

    She further wants the court to overturn all proceedings undertaken by the said Committee and to declare the Presidential Warrant authorizing her dismissal as unlawful and without legal effect. The legal move came as Parliament’s Appointments Committee prepared to vet Justice Baffoe-Bonnie for the top judicial position.

    Afenyo-Markin emphasized that commencing the vetting of the appointed CJ would breach judicial propriety. According to him, given the ongoing disputes surrounding the revocation of the former Chief Justice from office, proceeding with the vetting process could undermine Articles 125 and 127 of the Constitution.

    “Proceeding to vet a new person to fill that office will be rendering the application of justice. We are not into blows; we are here to argue law and for you to determine. This kind of attack, ‘it will happen, it will happen,’ is inappropriate. They should take it easy,” Afenyo-Markin said.

    Article 125 gives judicial power only to the courts and not to Parliament or the Executive. Article 127, on the other hand, requires all other state institutions not to interfere with the Judiciary’s work but to protect its independence.

    But the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, dismissed the motion presented by the Minority caucus. According to him, granting such a request would create a dangerous precedent, explaining that “any litigant could hold Parliament hostage—that is, file a case and freeze the work of Parliament and its committees.”

    He ruled that “there is no constitutional or standing order basis for Parliament to halt the process simply because there are pending cases in court. The motion is inadmissible and has been returned to the sponsor, the Minority Leader, Honorable Alexander Afenyo-Markin, as stated clearly by our Standing Orders.”

    The five-member committee, backed by Article 146, concluded its investigations last month and recommended the Chief Justice’s removal from office. Acting on the committee’s recommendations, President Mahama relieved Justice Gertrude Torkornoo of her duties with immediate effect on Monday, September 1.

    The Chief Justice was earlier suspended by President Mahama on Tuesday, April 22, after a prima facie case was established following multiple petitions calling for her removal.

    Among the petitions was one filed by a group known as Shining Stars of Ghana, alleging that she violated Article 144 of the Constitution by personally recommending judges for promotion to the Supreme Court. The group also claimed she ruled on a case involving the Speaker of Parliament without granting him a hearing, despite his refusal to respond to the suit.

    Another petition from a police officer who is also a lawyer accused the Chief Justice of manipulating evidence and abusing her authority during a Supreme Court session where he was reportedly reprimanded, arrested, and detained. Court records, however, show that the lawyer’s conduct during proceedings prompted a unanimous caution from the bench, not just from the Chief Justice.

    A third petition, submitted by a private individual, listed 21 alleged misconducts and four claims of incompetence, including the misuse of public funds—specifically, spending over GH¢261,000 and $30,000 on a family trip abroad in 2023, and misusing an additional GH¢75,580 and $14,000 during another foreign assignment without proper accountability.

    Subsequent reports indicate that two more petitions were later filed, intensifying pressure on the Judiciary.

    Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, in her written response to President Mahama, strongly denied allegations of misconduct and abuse of office, describing them as baseless and lacking grounds for her removal.

    In July, an application for review filed by the embattled Chief Justice at the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court was dismissed. The court, presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, ruled that several claims—such as the illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of proceedings—were already before the Supreme Court.

    Justice Amoako stated that relitigating these issues would result in duplication and abuse of court processes and therefore dismissed the case.

    The Chief Justice’s judicial review application, filed on June 9, sought nine reliefs, including declarations that the Article 146 Committee acted unlawfully and violated her right to a fair hearing.

    As the Article 146 Committee’s proceedings are held in camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into certain matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.

    Following these developments, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking $10 million in compensation over her suspension. Her application includes 10 reliefs, among them a request for precautionary measures ensuring she continues to enjoy the entitlements of her office pending the final determination of the case.

    Meanwhile, government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu has refuted Justice Torkornoo’s claims, insisting that her suspension aligns with the Constitution.

    On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association jointly called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President Mahama and the Executive arm of government.

    “Immediately and without delay, reinstate the Chief Justice of Ghana to her office, consistent with both the hitherto strong attachment to the rule of law demonstrated by Ghana and the constitutional duties incumbent upon them,” the statement said.

    The groups further urged a fair and transparent investigation into the disciplinary charges against her and the establishment of clear procedural rules with a definite timeframe for the Committee’s work.

  • “Your most urgent task is to strengthen integrity within the judiciary”- Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie told

    “Your most urgent task is to strengthen integrity within the judiciary”- Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie told

    President John Dramani Mahama has urged the newly sworn-in Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie to make it a priority to ensure that the judiciary remains honest, trustworthy and free from corruption.

    This followed the swearing-in of the Chief Justice at the Presidency on Monday, November 17, 2025.

    President told the new Chief Justice that one of his immediate responsibilities is to ensure the judiciary upholds strong integrity.

    “My Lord Chief Justice, one of your most urgent tasks is to strengthen integrity within the judiciary,” the President said.

    He added that “An independent judiciary is not a favour to the courts; it is a constitutional necessity sometimes criticised.”

    He also pointed out that, “Our people want institutions that work, but they also demand institutions that they can trust. The judiciary in particular must be above reproach. One single act of corruption by a judicial officer can undermine years of hard work and erode public confidence in the entire system.”

    Detailing four arears that needs the attention of the Juciary, the President mentioned “firm but fair disciplinary standards for judges and staff”, as well as “transparent and predictable procedures for case assignments and management”.

    He further stated the need for “strong internal mechanisms to address allegations of misconduct” and “a culture where ethical conduct is rewarded and wrongdoing is swiftly sanctioned.”

    President Mahama stressed that the justice system must be fair and open to all people.

    “Our citizens must know and feel that justice in Ghana is not for sale, and that no one, regardless of their power or status, is too powerful or too humble to be held accountable under the law.”

    President John Dramani Mahama has officially sworn in Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the new Chief Justice.

    Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was officially sworn into office on Monday, November 17, 2025, at a ceremony held at the Jubilee House.

    He is now mandated to occupy the seat of the former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, who was dismissed by the President.

    The ceremony was attended by high-ranking dignitaries, including the Vice President, members of the Council of State, the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, the leadership of Parliament, and a full complement of Supreme Court Justices, alongside the new Chief Justice’s immediate family.

    President Mahama, in his address, hailed Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s valuable experience and commitment to the rule of law, urging him to prioritise judicial independence and the accelerated disposition of cases.

    Accepting the mantle of leadership, the new Chief Justice took the prescribed oaths and immediately outlined his vision for the third arm of government, centred on comprehensive institutional reform.

    Meanwhile, one of the leading contenders for the NPP’s National Chairmanship, John Boadu, had warned Parliament not to downplay the Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s, remarks on notorious criminal Atta Ayi’s prison sentence.

    In 2005, Justice Paul gave Atta Ayi a 70-year prison sentence, convicting Atta Ayi of multiple counts of robbery and conspiracy to rob.

    Twenty years later, he addressed the issue, citing it as an example in response to a question about sentencing guidelines and recent concerns over lengthy sentences for minor, non-violent offences during his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for his appointment as Chief Justice nominee.

    According to him, the unusually lengthy sentence he gave Atta Ayi was to ensure the safety of his family; a shorter sentence could have allowed the criminal to target them after his release. emphasised that while sentencing guidelines provide a framework, judges must sometimes exercise discretion to address the broader context of a case, including public safety and the protection of vulnerable parties.

    “The judges and magistrates, they are trained, they have sentencing guidelines,” he said. “But sometimes they have to go beyond it. In my youthful days, I gave somebody 70 years, Atta Ayi.

    “I gave him 70 years. And what I told myself was that if Atta Ayi was given 30 years and he comes back, my family will be the first he will attack. So by the time he comes back after 70 years, I will be dead and gone,” he said lightheartedly to laughter in the audience,” he noted.

    NPP’s aspiring Chairman is not content with the Justice’s answer, raising concerns about his reputation as the soon-to-be highest judicial officer in Ghana and his impartiality in future cases.

  • High Commission alert Ghanaians on visa scams following 1,632 UK fraud cases in 2024

    High Commission alert Ghanaians on visa scams following 1,632 UK fraud cases in 2024

    The High Commissions of Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom in Ghana have announced a one-week public awareness campaign to educate applicants and prevent further cases.

    This comes as a response to revelations made by the British High Commissioner, Dr Christian Rogg, that over 1,600 Ghanaians were duped by fraudulent agents when applying for UK visit visas in 2024.

    The act, he said, has resulted in severe long-term consequences, including 10-year visa bans.

    “In 2024, 1,632 applicants from Ghana used fraudulent means when applying for UK visit visas. While that represents only 4% of all Ghanaian applicants, it is still far too many people misled by agents into taking an action that resulted in a 10-year visa ban. Fraud is never worth the risk,”

    Aligned with International Fraud Awareness Week (16–22 November 2025), this campaign is part of an international initiative with support from partner nations like New Zealand.

    “Visa fraud continues to affect many Ghanaians, with fraudulent agents and misinformation leading to financial loss, emotional distress, and long-term travel restrictions. This initiative is part of a wider global effort led by UK Visas & Immigration,” the joint statement issued on Monday, November 17, 2025, said.

    Berenice Owen-Jones, Australian High Commissioner, added, “Australia is proud to stand with our international partners to combat visa fraud. The Fighting Visa Fraud campaign sends a clear message — always use trusted, official sources and beware of anyone promising shortcuts or guaranteed results.”

    In the meantime, the High Commissions advised all Ghanaians seeking visas to Australia, Canada, or the UK to apply exclusively through official government channels.

    In July this year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs debunked reports that it is responsible for the United States government’s revision of the reciprocity schedule for a considerable number of African countries, including Ghana, reducing the B1/B2 visa validity from 5 years multiple entry to 3 months single entry.

    Ghanaian visa applicants can no longer access the 5-year visa and multiple-entry.

    It was reported that the Foreign Ministry had also limited the number of entries and duration given to US passport holders, hence the reciprocity by the US government.

    However, in a statement, the Ministry refuted this claim, noting that consistent with bilateral arrangements, US passport holders are entitled to a maximum visa validity of five years, and in most instances, five-year multiple-entry visas are issued upon request.

    “Some applicants, however, apply for single-entry visas owing largely to limited validity of their passports,” the statement read.

    Besides the maximum five-year multiple visas, Ghana also issues multiple-entry 6-month, one-year, two-year, three-year, and four-year visas based on various considerations.

    From January 2025 to date, 40,648 visas have been issued by Ghana’s missions in Washington, D.C., and New York. Out of this, 28,626 are multiple-entry visas to Ghana.

    The statement further indicated that “The official statistics clearly demonstrate that contrary to false narratives, Ghana has issued, on average, an impressive 70.42% of multiple long-term visas to US passport holders, consistent with our bilateral arrangements.”

    The Foreign Ministry noted that the present limitations imposed by the United States vary substantially from the prior reciprocal arrangements that Ghana has kept with the United States.

    The US’ decision has sparked concerns, and the Ministry has acknowledged the legitimate concerns of Ghanaian travellers to the United States for professional, business, educational, touristic, medical and family purposes inconvenienced.

    The Ministry has expressed its firm solidarity with all thoseGhana recognizes the sovereign right of every country to determine its visa regime.

    While the Government of Ghana studies the current developments more closely and considers its options, it remains committed to working expeditiously with its longstanding partner, the US Government.

    “We hope for an early resolution of the concerns that have led to the revision of the schedule which have been confirmed to be overstays, including by ensuring that the conduct of applicants align with the visa application procedures and requirements of the United States,” the statement added.

    Government has stated that it will, at its highest levels, sustain best efforts in strengthening relations with the United States in a manner that further enhances people-to-people relations in the mutual interest of both countries.

    The updated guidelines, published under the U.S. Visa, reveal that Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country for Ghana also affect student visa applicants.

    F-1 visa holders, who are typically enrolled in full-time academic programmes in the U.S., will now be issued visas that allow for only one entry and expire after three months.

    Diplomats and government officials will, however, continue to receive multiple-entry visas with validity ranging from 24 to 60 months.

    The K1 visa, issued to the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) of a US citizen intending to marry within 90 days of arrival in the United States, and the K2 visa, provided to the unmarried dependent child (under 21 years old) of a K1 visa holder, are single-entry visas that will be valid for 6 months.

    The K3 visa, for the foreign-citizen spouse of a US citizen, and the K4 visa, for their unmarried dependent child (under 21 years old), are multiple-entry visas that will be valid for 24 months.

    All other visa applicants, including those applying for B-class visas, which cover business and tourism travel, will now be issued single-entry visas valid for just three months.

  • “I am financially stable because I do corporate shows, not industry gigs – Spyro boasts

    “I am financially stable because I do corporate shows, not industry gigs – Spyro boasts

    Nigerian singer Oludipe David, popularly known as Spyro, says he is financially secure because his income largely comes from corporate gigs and high-profile bookings from elites.

    The ‘Who Is Your Guy’ crooner revealed that this niche has ensured steady earnings, even if he stops releasing music, he wont go bankrupt.

    “If I stop making music today, I’m made. A lot of people don’t know that because I don’t brag. I really don’t do industry shows. I do cooperate shows. I have carved a niche for myself in the industry like that. I get booked for events by banks and elites like Tony Elumelu every end of the year. Because when they are looking for clean music, maybe because children are going to be at the event, only a few artists like myself, Chike and Johnny Drille can be called upon,” he said.

    Spyro added that aside from music earnings, he has also made a lot of investments to safeguard his future.

    Award-winning Ghanaian rapper, Derrick Sarfo Kantanka, popularly known as Amerado, has revealed that his decision to pursue music was driven by the need to survive, rather than fame.

    “The main reason I got into music was to survive—I just wanted to eat,” he admitted. “Most of the time, I don’t even enjoy being an artiste,” he told  DJ Slim on Daybreak Hitz.

    According to him, he is also bothered by the constant pressure to give out money to fans, especially while stuck in traffic.

    “I feel restricted,” he said. “Whenever you’re in public, especially in traffic, you’re expected to hand out money to fans.”

    Despite the challenges he faces as an artist, Amerado says that his stage performances are nothing short of fulfilling.

    However, “The maintenance no be easy,” he added, stressing the demands and expectations that follow the life of a musician.

    Two years ago, the “Grace” rapper mentioned to Graphic Showbiz that he would never quit music to chase his academic dreams.

    At the time, he was a first-year student reading Political Science at the University of Ghana, Legon, where he acknowledged the huge demands of education but stressed that it would never influence him to shelve his music pursuit.

    “…I am never going to drop music. There’s no way I will quit music. No, not at all. I may give more time to my academics when school is in session and concentrate on music when we are on recess,” he said.

    Speaking on pursuing other career paths, the rapper mentioned that he will pursue politics as long as it doesn’t affect his music career negatively.

    “I believe music business works hand in hand with politics because in both ventures, we are always working to convince people to become our core followers. Once I realise politics won’t hurt my music career, I will go into it,” he said. 

    Amerado is known for songs such as Grace, Obiaa Boa, Sin No More, Metua, Back 2 Sender , Kwaku Ananse, Abotr3, among others.

    In  2023, the musician made history by becoming the first rapper to win the Best Rapper award at the Vodafone Ghana Music Award (VGMA), which has now been rebranded as Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs.

    He was optimistic that his song, “Ankonam,” would win Reggae Song of the Year at the 2025 VGMAs, however, he lost it to Stonebwoy.

    Meanwhile, he earned five nominations at the 2023 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs) in the categories of Hiplife/Hiphop Artiste of the Year, Hiplife Song of the Year, Collaboration of the Year, Best Lyrical Performer of the Year and Hiphop Song of the Year.

    Popular Ghanaian musician, Abubakar Ahmed popularly known as Blakk Rasta, has opened about how, despite the quality of his music, it has not rewarded him financially as he expects. 

    According to him, he has rubbed shoulders with world leaders through his music, but his finances do not show for it.

    In a church encounter with  Prophet Samuel Kakande in the East African nation of Uganda, Blakk Rasta shared his long-standing concern.

     “I have met some of the biggest presidents in the world. Like Barack Obama, I performed for him when he came to Ghana. In fact, I made the song that brought him to Ghana. I met with Robert Mugabe at his 92nd anniversary… He invited me to perform for him. ”

    “I know I do very good music; I have about 13 albums to my name but it doesn’t give me the money that I expect,” he lamented to the pastor.

    Multiple award-winning Ghanaian singer and songwriter, Francisca Gawuga, popularly known as Sista Afia, appears to express regret over pursuing music.

    Sista Afia admitted that she sometimes questions her decision because she doesn’t seem to see her sacrifices and investments paying off.

     “Since I released ‘Jeje,’ was when I realised that I may never be a favourite in the industry. I’ve invested so much effort and funded everything with my own money. If I had saved that money, I would have likely achieved more by now. It’s frustrating because I put my heart and soul into each project, even spending my last penny on a music video, because you don’t know which song might blow,” she said on the Delay Show.

    According to her, she sometimes reflects that her struggles in music aren’t just about talents or efforts but about the perception people carry about her. 

    “Many thoughts cross my mind. Sometimes, I wonder if my background is a factor; it seems people tend to prefer artists who come from the slums, those who were once unknown and then became popular. Some people say, ‘Afia comes from abroad, so why is she trying to make music here?’” she explained.

    Months ago, she voiced her frustration over the lack of recognition for her relentless efforts in the music industry. Despite dedicating herself fully to her craft, she feels overlooked compared to her male counterparts.

    Speaking in an interview with DJ Slim, the ‘Weather’ hitmaker shared how deeply invested she is in her music career, revealing that she barely gets any rest due to her demanding schedule.

    “I mean, I’ll speak for myself—I can’t speak for everyone—but I’ll speak for myself. I work tirelessly; I work more than everyone, especially Adey grind waaa, and I need this thing. I’m somebody that needs it; it’s like without music, there’s no Sista Afia,” she said.

    She emphasized that her commitment to music is undeniable, yet the industry seems to disregard her contributions.

    “I don’t sleep; I sleep like three hours, almost four, then I’m back to business. I hardly sleep. Right now, I feel like it’s time to talk. It’s so sad that people don’t really see the work you put in, and that hurts me,” she added.

    Sista Afia, known for her powerful vocals and versatility in blending highlife, Afrobeat, and dancehall, has performed on various major platforms. However, she believes that female artistes, regardless of their talent and work ethic, often struggle to receive the acknowledgment they deserve.

    Her comments highlight a broader issue within the Ghanaian music industry, where female musicians frequently face challenges in gaining visibility despite their hard work and dedication.

    Ghanaian female musicians are not making the needed impact on the continent due to lack of resources.

    Nigerian female artistes have over the past years dominated the Africa music circles with the likes Tiwa Savage, Simi, Yemi Alade, Sinach, among others making a significant impact across the globe, only a few The multiple award-winning had said earlier on this year that Some Ghanaian female artistes including their male counterparts have been unable to hit the top list of various African music charts.

    In an interview with GNA Entertainment, she said the Nigerian music setting is well resourced, helping them thrive with the works in Africa and beyond.

    “Ghanaian female musicians are doing what they can at the moment. When it comes to vocal delivery, songwriting, and stage performances, Ghana has me, Efya, Freda Rhymez, and more to boast of.

    “The thing is, the Nigerians have the resources which include investors, connections, support and music exposure than Ghanaian musicians,” she said.

    However, the “Weather” hitmaker was highly optimistic about how Ghanaian female artistes can match up with their counterparts in other countries in the near future.

    “We are progressing each and every day. Recently my new song with Victor AD is one of the biggest songs in Nigeria and Cameroon. I had a call from one top international musician who wants to remix his song with me.

    “We are getting there gradually just that the pace is a bit slow. But as the saying goes, slowly but sure. We will get there and we hope we (female musicians) get that positive support from the media and everyone,” she said.

    Sista Afia who is undoubtedly Ghana’s hottest female singer at the moment and she is set to release another banger with Stonebwoy, as they were recently spotted in the studios.

    Meanwhile, in 2023, Sista Afia said that if she had not chosen to pursue music, she would have been married by now with children.

    When asked about her life as a celebrity during a discussion of the celebrity lifestyle section of Neat FM’s entertainment program, sister Afia responded, “If I wasn’t a musician I would have been married by now, if I was in your position I would have been married,” she stressed referring to a fellow panelist.

    “…of course, I wish I would have been married with kids by now,” she emphasized.

    Meanwhile, Sista Afia is out with a new song titled ‘Carry Go.’

    The track is her first official single and release for the year 2023. It was produced by one of Ghana’s talented producers, Abochi

    The song discusses her romantic life and lays out her goals.

    She emphasizes the enjoyable aspects of relationships, the quality time she can spend with a partner, and the importance of money at this time.

  • Wendy Shay announces $10,000 YouTube earnings in one week

    Wendy Shay announces $10,000 YouTube earnings in one week

    Singer Wendy Shay has revealed that she recently received an amount of ten thousand dollars $10,000 as earnings from YouTube.

    In an interview on Adom TV, Wendy revealed that she receives thousands of dollars weekly from song streaming platforms and for this recent one, she has gone ahead to ask to transfer the money into her accounts.

    “I was there this week when $10,000 dropped from YouTube, and that’s just YouTube alone. I don’t like to talk about my finances on air, but I receive thousands of dollars every week.” she said.

    She added the the amount is just what Youtube pays her from time to time.

    Adding that, earnings from other streaming platforms are yet to be known.

    Wendy explained that music is tangible and streamed every day, which accounts for such earnings on a weekly basis.

    @adom_tv

    Just this week, I received $10,000 from YouTube alone – Wendy Shay #SHOWTYM #adomsocials #adomtv

    ♬ original sound – AdomTV – AdomTV

    Multiple award-winning Ghanaian singer and songwriter, Francisca Gawuga, popularly known as Sista Afia, appears to express regret over pursuing music.

    Sista Afia admitted that she sometimes questions her decision because she doesn’t seem to see her sacrifices and investments paying off.

     “Since I released ‘Jeje,’ was when I realised that I may never be a favourite in the industry. I’ve invested so much effort and funded everything with my own money. If I had saved that money, I would have likely achieved more by now. It’s frustrating because I put my heart and soul into each project, even spending my last penny on a music video, because you don’t know which song might blow,” she said on the Delay Show.

    According to her, she sometimes reflects that her struggles in music aren’t just about talents or efforts but about the perception people carry about her. 

    “Many thoughts cross my mind. Sometimes, I wonder if my background is a factor; it seems people tend to prefer artists who come from the slums, those who were once unknown and then became popular. Some people say, ‘Afia comes from abroad, so why is she trying to make music here?’” she explained.

    Months ago, she voiced her frustration over the lack of recognition for her relentless efforts in the music industry. Despite dedicating herself fully to her craft, she feels overlooked compared to her male counterparts.

    Speaking in an interview with DJ Slim, the ‘Weather’ hitmaker shared how deeply invested she is in her music career, revealing that she barely gets any rest due to her demanding schedule.

    “I mean, I’ll speak for myself—I can’t speak for everyone—but I’ll speak for myself. I work tirelessly; I work more than everyone, especially Adey grind waaa, and I need this thing. I’m somebody that needs it; it’s like without music, there’s no Sista Afia,” she said.

    She emphasized that her commitment to music is undeniable, yet the industry seems to disregard her contributions.

    “I don’t sleep; I sleep like three hours, almost four, then I’m back to business. I hardly sleep. Right now, I feel like it’s time to talk. It’s so sad that people don’t really see the work you put in, and that hurts me,” she added.

    Sista Afia, known for her powerful vocals and versatility in blending highlife, Afrobeat, and dancehall, has performed on various major platforms. However, she believes that female artistes, regardless of their talent and work ethic, often struggle to receive the acknowledgment they deserve.

    Her comments highlight a broader issue within the Ghanaian music industry, where female musicians frequently face challenges in gaining visibility despite their hard work and dedication.

    Ghanaian female musicians are not making the needed impact on the continent due to lack of resources.

    Nigerian female artistes have over the past years dominated the Africa music circles with the likes Tiwa Savage, Simi, Yemi Alade, Sinach, among others making a significant impact across the globe, only a few The multiple award-winning had said earlier on this year that Some Ghanaian female artistes including their male counterparts have been unable to hit the top list of various African music charts.

    In an interview with GNA Entertainment, she said the Nigerian music setting is well resourced, helping them thrive with the works in Africa and beyond.

    “Ghanaian female musicians are doing what they can at the moment. When it comes to vocal delivery, songwriting, and stage performances, Ghana has me, Efya, Freda Rhymez, and more to boast of.

    “The thing is, the Nigerians have the resources which include investors, connections, support and music exposure than Ghanaian musicians,” she said.

    However, the “Weather” hitmaker was highly optimistic about how Ghanaian female artistes can match up with their counterparts in other countries in the near future.

    “We are progressing each and every day. Recently my new song with Victor AD is one of the biggest songs in Nigeria and Cameroon. I had a call from one top international musician who wants to remix his song with me.

    “We are getting there gradually just that the pace is a bit slow. But as the saying goes, slowly but sure. We will get there and we hope we (female musicians) get that positive support from the media and everyone,” she said.

    Sista Afia who is undoubtedly Ghana’s hottest female singer at the moment and she is set to release another banger with Stonebwoy, as they were recently spotted in the studios.

    Meanwhile, in 2023, Sista Afia said that if she had not chosen to pursue music, she would have been married by now with children.

    When asked about her life as a celebrity during a discussion of the celebrity lifestyle section of Neat FM’s entertainment program, sister Afia responded, “If I wasn’t a musician I would have been married by now, if I was in your position I would have been married,” she stressed referring to a fellow panelist.

    “…of course, I wish I would have been married with kids by now,” she emphasized.

    Meanwhile, Sista Afia is out with a new song titled ‘Carry Go.’

    The track is her first official single and release for the year 2023. It was produced by one of Ghana’s talented producers, Abochi

    The song discusses her romantic life and lays out her goals.

    She emphasizes the enjoyable aspects of relationships, the quality time she can spend with a partner, and the importance of money at this time.

  • Collapsed bridge at DRC cobalt mine kills 32

    Collapsed bridge at DRC cobalt mine kills 32

    A collapsed bridge in the Democratic Republic of Congo has killed thirty two (32) people at the Kalando copper and cobalt mine in Lualaba Province.

    According to officials, wildcat miners forced their way onto the site despite a safety ban, causing the makeshift bridge to give way under overcrowding.

    SAEMAPE, the small-scale mining agency, says gunfire from soldiers triggered panic, leading miners to rush toward the bridge before it collapsed.

    The agency puts the death toll at more than 40.

    The Kalando mine has long been disputed between wildcat miners, a cooperative overseeing operations, and the site’s legal operators, who reportedly include Chinese interests.

    Authorities have suspended operations, while rights groups are calling for an independent investigation into the military’s role. The army has not commented.

    The DRC is the world’s top producer of cobalt but continues to face concerns over unsafe mining conditions and ongoing conflict linked to mineral resources.

    Months ago, shock and grief gripped the Democratic Republic of Congo after the horrific death of football referee Patrick Ngalamulume, who was brutally killed by a mob in the eastern city of Bukavu.

    The 36-year-old, widely known by his nickname “Ngalas,” was attacked in the Irambo neighbourhood overnight between May 5 and 6, 2025.

    He was accused by locals of theft—a charge that remains unproven—and was violently beaten before being set on fire by a furious crowd.

    Witnesses say the gruesome incident played out in public view, with no response from police or emergency services as the situation escalated.

    The killing has sparked outrage and mourning across the country, particularly within the sporting community.

    “It was horrifying. No one could stop it. The anger was uncontrollable,” said one local who witnessed the lynching but asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal.

    Patrick Ngalamulume, a respected member of the Bukavu Urban Football Association (EUFBUK), had a clean record and was widely regarded for his integrity and dedication to refereeing.

    His tragic death has deeply shaken the local football fraternity and sparked widespread mourning across civil society.

    “We have lost not just a referee, but a man who believed in fair play and justice,” said a senior official with EUFBUK. “To think he was denied the very justice he upheld is heartbreaking.”

    In a strongly worded statement, the Football Association condemned the killing:

    “We are deeply saddened by the senseless and barbaric murder of Patrick Ngalamulume. We call on the authorities to arrest all those involved and restore trust in the rule of law.”

    The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) also joined in expressing solidarity, adding:

    “Football must remain a sport that unites, not one that becomes entangled in the breakdown of law and order.”

    The lynching underscores the deteriorating security in parts of eastern Congo, where armed rebel groups like M23 have weakened state control, and vigilante justice has become common.

    “The government must act. This level of barbarity cannot become a norm,” said a Bukavu local official. “People are losing faith in the justice system, and we’re seeing the dangerous consequences of that.”

    In recent months, Bukavu and neighbouring Goma have seen a rise in similar acts of mob justice, a symptom of the growing void left by an overwhelmed and under-resourced justice system.

    Civil society groups, sports authorities, and local leaders have called for an independent investigation into the killing, the arrest of those responsible, and urgent action to prevent further breakdowns in law enforcement.

    Patrick Ngalamulume’s tragic death serves as a grim reminder of what happens when fear replaces justice. His memory now stands as both a loss and a call—for accountability, reform, and the protection of all citizens under the law.

    In 2024, six people were killed and many were arrested after attacks on the home of a friend of President Felix Tshisekedi and the presidential palace in Congo. The military said it was a failed attempt to take over the government.

    In December, Tshisekedi won the election again even though the opposition wanted a new vote because they thought the process wasn’t fair.

    Six people were killed, including 3 attackers and their leader, Christian Malanga, who is against the current government. The army said they also arrested around 50 people involved in the attack.

    Soldiers in military uniform fought with the guards of Vital Kamerhe, a lawmaker who is close to the president of Congo. Kamerhe’s spokesperson wrote on social media site X, saying that the guards stopped the intruders and made sure that the politician and his family were safe.

    Two security guards were also murdered, Ekenge stated.

    In the beginning, the news said the men with guns were from Congo’s army. Later, they said the men were connected to Malanga. He posted a video on Facebook from inside the president’s house, threatening Tshisekedi.

    The army spokesman said Malanga was killed in a gunfight with the presidential guards.

    Ekenge said on TV that the attempted government takeover was stopped by the Congolese military and police and everything is ok now. He also said that three Americans, including Malanga’s son, were involved in the plot.

    The attack happened when Tshisekedi’s ruling party was already dealing with a crisis over a parliamentary election. This election was supposed to happen on Saturday but got postponed.

  • Lil Win named Best Actor in the Ghana–Nigeria category at the 10th Sotigui Awards in Burkina Faso

    Lil Win named Best Actor in the Ghana–Nigeria category at the 10th Sotigui Awards in Burkina Faso

    Ghanaian actor Kwadwo Nkansah, known as Lil Win has been recognized by Burkina Faso as Best Actor in the Ghana–Nigeria category at it 10th Sotigui Awards held on November 15.

    The event, held in Burkina Faso earned LilWin the honour for his performance in the film Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

    It was directed by Jackson K. Bentum, to tell the story of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso’s President, who came to power at age 34 after a coup in 2022.

    The movie highlights his image as a young leader, a symbol of African pride, and a figure of resistance against external influence.

    Lil Win’s performance continues to gain global attention, with Captain Ibrahim Traoré also securing a nomination at the New Zealand Film Festival.

    Meanwhile, other actors featured in the category were Nigerian actors Wale Ojo, who was nominated for the The Man Died, and Nnamdi Agbo for Hijack 93.

    On December 20, 2023, the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel hosted the third edition of the esteemed Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy Awards (SDTA Awards) Gala under a starry night.

    In its third year, SDTA Awards bestowed the title of SUPREME AFRICAN ACTOR OF THE DECADE upon Adjetey Anang, a cherished figure in Ghana’s film industry. Known as “Pusher” from the TV series “Things We Do for Love,” he succeeds Prince David Osei.

    Adjetey Anang, donned in an elegant black kaftan, gracefully accepted the ‘Supreme African Actor of the Decade’ accolade from the Lebanon Ambassador to Ghana, H.E Maher Kheir, succeeding Prince David Osei.

    The multiple award-winning star took the stage to deliver a brief but heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude for the prestigious honor of being named the Supreme African Actor of the Decade at the 2023 SDTA Awards Gala.

    “Really feel humbled by this award. I value every single award and this is up there with all the rest. Thank you SDTA Awards for all the sacrifice while you continue to impact & inspire us to do more.” Adjetey Anang

    The award recipients for the Decade Film category are chosen at the discretion of the jury and Advisory Board and not open for public voting, however public nominations are allowed.

    This category is reserved only for the finest of film stars & filmmakers, who stand out for consistently portraying supremacy in their work over the decade.

    If one were sitting in the audience, a neck spasm would be impending with all the turning and trying to spot the celebrities, diplomats, and other dignitaries.

    While trying to catch all the fun on stage, from musical performances to Cultural dance, to poetry, etc., it was indeed a night of glittering performances, tickling humor, and humble gratifications. Some of the other dignitaries who also received Awards at SDTA Awards 2023 includes;

    The recipients of the Decade Film category awards are selected by the discretion of the jury and Advisory Board, without public voting, although public nominations are permitted.

    This exclusive category is dedicated to the most exceptional film stars and filmmakers who have consistently demonstrated excellence in their craft over the decade. For those seated in the audience, the constant turning and attempts to spot celebrities, diplomats, and dignitaries could induce neck spasms.

    The night unfolded with glittering performances, entertaining humor, and genuine expressions of gratitude, featuring musical acts, cultural dances, poetry, and more. Noteworthy dignitaries were also honored at the SDTA Awards 2023.

    H.E Maher Kheir , the Lebanon Ambassador to Ghana – Supreme Diplomat of the Year
    Actor Prince David Osei – Supreme African Celebrity Rolemodel Of the Year
    Ghanaian highlife musician, songwriter, producer, and composer -Gyedu-Blay Ambolley – Supreme Lifetime Achievement Award in Music, 2023 Recipient.
    Actor Ecow Smith-Asante – Supreme African Film Icon of the Decade
    Akumaa Mama Zimbi – Ghanaian Television and radio broadcast journalist – Supreme African TV Presenter Of the Decade
    Ramesh Jai – Owner Apex Advertising – Supreme African Filmmaker of the Year
    Enoch Atakorah – Film Producer- Supreme African Filmmaker of the Decade
    Actress Nikki Samonas – Supreme African Actress of the Year
    Actor Ian Wodi – Supreme African Actor of the Year
    Amongst many others.

    “This huge recognition is to celebrate him for his unending commitment to his work supremacy over the past decade, in-fact he has been on this greatness for over 22 years and some of us adults were just toddlers then, so we applaud his Consistency and tenacity, what we like to call the AFRI- TENACITY.

    We salute him in his boundary breaking exploits and his bold and visible presence in the spaces and places that matter.
    We also honor the work that he does to expand these spaces for more people, hence we are giving him his flowers. Congratulations to him on his well deserved honor.” Hon. Zino Lexili Ogazi- Chairperson SDTA Awards.

    ABOUT ADJETEY ANANG – SUPREME AFRICAN ACTOR OF THE DECADE 2023
    Adjetey Anang (born 7 July 1973) is a Ghanaian actor, popularly known as “Pusher”, which was his screen name in the television series Things We Do for Love. Adjetey is a multiple award winning film and stage actor with over 22 years experience in various forms of theatre and screen productions.

    He has featured in many Ghanaian movies, including Deadly Voyage, A Sting in a Tale, The Perfect Picture and more recently, Sugar, The Perfect Picture – Ten Years Later and Gold Coast Lounge. He has also featured in a Dutch movie titled Slavery.

    Adjetey Anang has also been a part of several stage plays in Ghana, South Africa, the Netherlands and France such as “Through a Film Darkly”, “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone”, “Run for your Wife”, “Death and the King’s Horseman”, “Marriage of Anansewa”, “La Cantatrice Chauve” “Prison Graduates”, etc.

    Adjetey Anang has a First Class Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana, Legon. He further obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Dramatic Arts (with distinction) from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg South Africa (Wits University). He has also attended several workshops and training programmes in Ghana, South Africa, Nigeria, The Netherlands, the UK and the US, etc.

    He is a lecturer in Acting at the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI) teaching at the Bachelor’s Degree and Diploma levels and also handles Acting Certificate Courses at the same Institution. Adjetey’s acting debut was on stage with Nyankunton Players (a drama group), where he was handpicked and employed by the National Drama company (Abibiogromma). This platform projected his talent and potential onto National stage productions. His screen debut was on the TV Drama 1998 with Ghana’s National TV station (GTV). His contemporary actors and film producers have described him one of the best classically trained screen & stage actors in Africa ready to take on the global stage.

    ABOUT SUPREME DYNAMIC TALENT ACADEMY AWARDS (SDTA AWARDS)
    Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy Awards® (SDTA AWARDS, Pronounced as STAR AWARDS For the initials ) is the first Prestigious and Global Awards Organization from Africa to Celebrate & honor the Supremacy & Dynamism Of Both African & International Creatives & Talents in the Creative or Entertainment Industry, whose works have projected the Arts an Entertainment sector Supremely.

    SDTA AWARDS also has a SPECIAL RECOGNITION Category which spotlights on ALL Walks of life, to celebrate and honor personalities from around the globe with short or long standing service to the development of their respective fields and also to Humanity, for creative and innovative Contributions.

    SDTA AWARDS is presented in an Annual Awards show, hosted by Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy, an internationally recognised Talent Academy with the aim to equip
    & train Talents with Global standards to strive for Supremacy in their careers, either in Modeling, Pageantry, Acting, TV Presenting, Makeup & Dancing.

    SDTA Awards is hosted by Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy In collaboration with supreme Dynamic Agency, which holds unparalleled experiences and unrivaled expertise in hosting international conferences, events, and exhibitions, including Talent Management, Pro PR, AD Content Creative Services, Digital Marketing & ushering Services.

  • South Africa releases over 150 Palestinian passengers after 12-hour airport detention

    South Africa releases over 150 Palestinian passengers after 12-hour airport detention

    South Africa has let over 150 Palestinian passengers leave a plane after they were stuck on it for nearly 12 hours.

    They were only allowed to get off after a local charity promised to provide them with a place to stay if needed.

    “Given that Palestinians are eligible for 90-day visa-exempt travel to South Africa, they have been processed as per normal and will be required to adhere to all conditions of entry,” South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA) said in a statement late on Thursday.

    The chartered plane carrying 153 Palestinians landed shortly after 8am (06:00 GMT) on Thursday morning at OR Tambo International Airport, which serves the cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria.

    According to the BMA, the Palestinian passengers were not allowed to disembark from the aircraft after it was discovered they “did not have the customary departure stamps in their passports”.

    The BMA said the passengers hadn’t stated how long they planned to stay in South Africa or where they would be staying.

    “Following their failure to pass the immigration test and given that none of the travellers expressed an intention to apply for asylum, they were initially denied entry,” it added.

    the Palestinians being held on the airport tarmac for hours sparked widespread anger in South Africa, a country that strongly backs the Palestinian cause.

    They were finally allowed to leave the plane after the Home Affairs Ministry received assurance from the humanitarian group Gift of the Givers that the visitors would have a place to stay.

    130 Palestinians stayed in South Africa, while 23 continued on to other destinations, the BMA said. The flight, operated by South African airline Global Airways, had come from Kenya.

    Founder of Gift of the Givers, Imtiaz Sooliman, told SABC that he was unaware of who chartered the plane and noted that an earlier flight carrying 176 Palestinians had arrived in Johannesburg on October 28, with some passengers later traveling to other countries.

    “The families of this first group told us yesterday their family members are coming on a second plane, and nobody knew about that plane,” Sooliman said.

    “Those people are really distraught coming from two years of genocide,” Sooliman said of the passengers.

    Based on “feedback” from those who have arrived already in South Africa, Sooliman said Israel appears to be “removing people from Gaza … and sending them on chartered planes” without stamping their passports.

    “Israel deliberately did not stamp the passports of these poor people to exacerbate their suffering in a foreign country,” he added in a post on social media.

    Other humanitarian groups are also now offering to provide support for the Palestinian visitors, he added.

    Nigel Branken, a South African social worker who assisted those held on the plane, said the passengers from Gaza had told him of being ordered by Israeli authorities to leave all their belongings behind before boarding an unmarked plane at an Israeli air force base.

    “Very clearly all the marks of Israel involved in this operation to take people…to displace them,” Branken told Al Jazeera.

    South Africa has historically been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause and has repeatedly criticised Israeli actions in Gaza, often advocating for international accountability through the United Nations and the International Criminal Court. The country has strong civil society and humanitarian networks that frequently mobilise to assist refugees and displaced persons from conflict zones.

    Palestinians traveling to South Africa are generally eligible for visa-exempt entry for up to 90 days. However, standard immigration procedures still apply, including verification of departure stamps, intended length of stay, and accommodation details. Failure to meet these requirements can result in delays or temporary denial of entry, as seen in this incident.

    Chartered flights carrying Palestinian passengers from Gaza have become more common amid ongoing conflict and displacement. Many of these flights are organised with the assistance of humanitarian agencies or private sponsors, though details are not always publicly disclosed. Previous arrivals, such as a flight in late October carrying 176 Palestinians, underscore the recurring nature of such movements and the challenges faced by both passengers and South African authorities.

    Humanitarian organisations such as Gift of the Givers play a key role in providing temporary shelter, food, and medical support to displaced persons upon arrival. In this case, their intervention ensured that passengers could finally disembark safely after nearly 12 hours of waiting on the tarmac.

    The incident has sparked public attention and outrage in South Africa, reflecting widespread solidarity with Palestinians and concern for human rights. Social workers and volunteers assisting the passengers have described the distress caused by long waits and strict procedures, as well as reports that Israeli authorities instructed passengers to leave belongings behind, raising questions about the treatment of displaced civilians.

    This event also highlights broader issues in international refugee movements, including coordination between airlines, governments, and humanitarian groups, and the bureaucratic challenges that can compound the trauma experienced by displaced populations.

  • Nigerians are patient and daring – Beverly Afaglo on movie industry support

    Nigerians are patient and daring – Beverly Afaglo on movie industry support

    Ghanaian filmmaker Beverly Afaglo has compared Ghana’s entertainment sector to that of Nigeria’s in terms of financial support.

    In an interview on Joy FM on November 12, 2025, the award-winning actress lamented that institutions like banks are hesitant to support the country’s movie industry, but the situation is entirely different if Nigerians are involved.

    “Banks are supporting, companies are supporting the business. In Ghana, banks don’t support anything. Even events that are for awards and stuff to recognise hard work, banks are not ready to support these events, how much more a movie,” she stated

    Adding that Nigerian banks and private companies actively sponsor and finance creative projects

    “Nigerians are daring. They don’t mind putting x amount in the business, provided you’ve assured them that they will get their money back. They don’t care how long; they’re patient. This is what I want too, I will wait and get it back,” she said.

    Meanwhile, celebrated British actor and producer, Idris Elba, made a significant contribution to the future of African filmmaking by donating $25,000 to the University of Media Arts and Communication-Institute of Film and Television (UniMAC-IFT) in Accra.

    The generous donation, announced during a courtesy visit to the university on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, is aimed at addressing the institution’s infrastructure challenges and advancing its mission to nurture the next generation of filmmakers.

    Elba, known for his acclaimed roles in films such as Luther and Beasts of No Nation, expressed his deep passion for the creative industry, particularly for emerging filmmakers in Africa.

    His visit to UniMAC-IFT was part of an effort to foster collaboration and support African film education.

    He emphasized that Africa’s film industry holds immense potential to become a global storytelling powerhouse with the right partnerships and investments.

    The $25,000 donation, made through Elba’s Elba Hope Foundation, will be directed specifically towards infrastructure development at the university.

    The funds are expected to help improve facilities and provide students with the resources they need to develop their skills and pursue successful careers in the film and television industry.

    During the visit, Elba met with the university’s management and staff, including the rector, Professor Samuel Manasseh Yirenkyi.

    The discussion centered on the university’s accomplishments, its challenges, and the potential impact of collaborations with key figures in the global film industry.

    Elba also shared his vision for an upcoming studio project designed to offer world-class training opportunities to students from around the globe.

    The rector of UniMAC-IFT, visibly moved by Elba’s gesture, expressed his heartfelt gratitude, stating that the donation would make a lasting impact on the university’s growth.

    He noted that this contribution would allow the institution to enhance its capacity to train and equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the competitive global film industry.

    Elba’s visit to UniMAC-IFT has not only inspired hope within the institution but also reinforced the importance of international collaborations in strengthening Africa’s creative industries.

    As the rain slowed to a gentle drizzle outside, the promise of progress and empowerment for African filmmakers seemed to be a reality that could now be within reach.

    Elba’s commitment to African film education and his dedication to helping aspiring filmmakers serves as a beacon of hope, lighting the way for the next generation of creative talent.

    His $25,000 donation is a step toward realizing the full potential of Africa’s vibrant and growing film industry.

    Renowned Ghanaian filmmaker and comedian, Kwaku Simtim-Misa, widely known as KSM, has offered a candid assessment of Ghana’s movie industry, stressing that it cannot yet be compared to the Nigerian film industry in terms of growth, structure, and contribution.

    Speaking on The Career Trail program on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, KSM said that while Ghana is blessed with talented filmmakers and promising content, the absence of a sustainable and efficient system continues to hinder the industry’s growth.

    “Unfortunately, it is still a growing industry. We can’t compare the film industry in Ghana to that of Nigeria. The Nigerians have had a longer time of being exposed to making films. And the more they make them, the better they get. The more they produce, the more they devise ways of distributing them. Eventually, you realize you’ve developed a system that works for you,” KSM stated.

    On the other hand, he said Ghana’s film industry is still trying to find its feet.

    Most filmmakers struggle to raise money at every stage, from writing the story, shooting the film, paying actors, to finally getting the movie out there for people to watch.

    “Somebody will hustle to make money, then hustle to pay for the film. And after paying for the film, the actors, and everyone else involved, they now have to hustle again just to distribute the film. There are no proper distribution outlets,” he lamented.

    Ghana’s film industry, once vibrant in the CD/DVD era, now struggles with structure, funding, and proper distribution.

    Unlike Nigeria’s Nollywood, which has grown into a globally recognized industry through consistent production, strong distribution networks, and digital platforms, Ghana’s sector remains largely informal.

    Filmmakers often self-fund and face hurdles getting their movies widely seen.

    While a few initiatives and talented individuals are pushing forward, veteran filmmaker KSM says the lack of a solid system continues to limit growth and makes it difficult to compare Ghana’s industry with Nigeria.

  • 2026 Budget only unmasked NPP’s poor economic management – Majority leader to Minority leader

    2026 Budget only unmasked NPP’s poor economic management – Majority leader to Minority leader

    Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, has stated that the full extent of the deterioration caused by the Akufo-Addo-led administration’s bad governance is being exposed by the day.

    Minority Leader, Afenyo-Markins had commented and described the 2026 budget presentation by the finance Minister, Ato Forson, on November 13 on the floor of parliament as just lamentations.

    In response, Ato Forson stated, “Our people say that when the tog is dead, then you see it full length. It is not lamentations. It is the continuous unearthing of the bad economic management of the NPP that is being revealed everyday.”

    Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presented the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy where he outlined strategies for economic growth, job creation, and post-International Monetary Fund (IMF) management.

    Ahead of the presentation day, he announced plans to present the budget in October, but the date was later changed to allow for broader consultations and public input. Under the Public Financial Management Act, the Finance Minister is mandated to present the national budget to Parliament not later than November 15 each year.

    The 2026 Budget introduced tax reforms, including a reduction of VAT from 22% to 20%, and a review of levies such as the COVID-19 levy. The budget was crucial for ensuring fiscal stability as Ghana readies to exit the IMF programme in May 2026,

    Dr. Forson maintains that growth targets and fiscal policies remain unchanged as inflation continues to fall, reaching 9.4% in September 2025 — the first single-digit rate since 2021.

    The 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy Ghana’s announced that the economy is expected to experience significant growth in 2026.

    The Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, projected a 4.8% increase in the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for 2026.

    He also forecasted that inflation would drop to 8% by the end of the year. “Right honorable Speaker, for the year 2026, we will achieve the following at the minimum, real GDP growth of at least 4.8%, driven by continued expansion in infrastructure, service sectors, and agriculture as well. … Mr. Speaker, at least 4.9%, and end the inflation for next year will be at least 8% ± 2,” he added.

    The Minister noted that the projected growth would be driven by continued development in infrastructure, the services sector, and agriculture. Ghana recorded a 6.3% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of 2025 and an 8.0% inflation rate for October, down from 9.4% recorded in September.

    The 8.0% inflation rate indicates a sharp improvement from the 23.8% recorded in December 2024. The IMF projects a decrease in global inflation while predicting slower economic growth in 2025 for the U.S. and other regions.

    The presentation of the year-ahead budget is in accordance with the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921) of Ghana, which was passed by Parliament and assented to on August 25, 2016.

    The Act governs how public funds are managed across all government entities.

    The Act mandates that the Finance Minister, acting on behalf of the President, lay before Parliament, not later than November 15 of each financial year, estimates of the revenues and expenditures of the government.

    According to some analysts, the 2025 Budget largely followed the same plans, ideas, and policies set up by the erstwhile government.In July this year, the Finance Minister, Dr. Ato Forson, mentioned that the Mahama-led administration would present its 2026 Budget and Economic Statement to Parliament in October 2025, instead of November 2025.

    With this, Parliament would have about an additional month to debate the 2026 Budget before the House goes on recess in late December. He noted that the new timeline for the presentation would aid thorough deliberation, allowing room for alterations before the budget comes into force at the beginning of 2026.

    “We are aiming to present the 2026 budget to Parliament by the end of October 2025. Preparations are already underway. We want to avoid the delays and uncertainties of the past. This government is committed to proper planning and transparency,” he disclosed during an appearance on a special edition of PM EXPRESS with host Evans Mensah on July 24.

    However, the Finance Ministry later announced in a statement in August that November 15 would be the new date for the budget presentation. In the same statement, it requested inputs from the general public to be considered in the 2026–2029 National Budget. The inputs, the Ministry said, were to be submitted electronically to bdru@mofep.gov.gh

    This call was in line with the government’s responsiveness to the needs of the Ghanaian citizenry to deepen citizens’ participation in the budget process, as well as implement inclusive policies.

    Consequently, the Finance Ministry has reportedly completed several rounds of stakeholder engagements and industry consultations to finalise the policies and programs that will feature in the 2026 Budget.

    In earlier interviews, Dr Forson has listed economic growth, development and job creation, particularly for Ghana’s ballooning youth and deepening unemployment crisis, as the main focus of the 2026 Budget.

    Sources also suggest that the Finance Minister is set to introduce new policy measures aimed at reforming the tax system and improving revenue mobilisation.

    According to the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Sarpong, the 2026 Budget will include a review of the Value Added Tax (VAT), with the effective rate expected to be reduced from 22% to 20%.

    This adjustment is part of ongoing reforms to simplify the VAT structure and make it more business-friendly.Additionally, Dr Forson is expected to review several tax levies, including the COVID-19 levy, as part of efforts to ease the tax burden on businesses and households.

    With Ghana set to exit the IMF programme in May 2026, attention will also be on how the Finance Minister plans to manage the economy in the post-programme period.

    The 2026 Budget will, therefore, be one of the government’s most significant economic policy documents, setting the tone for fiscal management and growth strategy after the IMF programme.

    Another key area of interest for industry players and economists will be how Dr Ato Forson intends to manage the fiscal deficit and expenditure in 2026 while maintaining macroeconomic stability.

    During the mid-year budget review, the Finance Minister announced the abolition of certain levies, including the e-levy, betting tax, and emissions levy, and provided projections for the country’s growth and other key indicators. He insisted that the government would stick to what was announced earlier this year. “We are not changing course. The growth target, the fiscal deficit, and the inflation target—all of it remains as announced in the 2025 Budget. We are sticking to it.” “The economy is responding well. We’ve seen 5.3% GDP growth in Q1, inflation is falling, and the cedi is stable. So there’s no need to revise the framework.”

    His comments came a few weeks after the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) announced the sixth consecutive reduction in the inflation rate this year so far. According to GSS, as of June, the country recorded a 13.7 percent rate, a 4.7 percent decline from the 18.4 percent rate reported in May.

    This is also the lowest rate recorded since February 2022 at the time. Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrisu, following the release of data on July 2, noted that the reduction in the rate was due to the decline in prices of foodstuffs and other items.

    Subsequently, Ghana has recorded a single-digit inflation with September 2025’s falling to 9.4%, marking the country’s first return to single-digit inflation since August 2021.

  • $1.5 billion Tema Port Expansion Project commissioned by President Mahama

    $1.5 billion Tema Port Expansion Project commissioned by President Mahama

    Phases 1 and 2 of the Tema Port Expansion Project, has been successfully commissioned by President John Dramani Mahama.

    The initiative, worth $1.5 billion, was carried out through a public-private partnership involving Meridian Port Services (MPS), the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), APM Terminals, and Africa Global Logistics (AGL).

    During the commissioning ceremony on Thursday, November 13, President Mahama described the project as a major milestone in Ghana’s drive to become a competitive trade and logistics hub for West Africa.

    “This project is the realisation of a dream we have nurtured for years to establish Ghana as the gateway to West Africa. Today, that dream becomes a tangible reality, symbolising a national aspiration and international confidence,” he stated.

    Adding that the expansion will stimulate job creation and attract investment across multiple sectors of the economy, positioning Ghana as the preferred gateway for international trade and maritime operations in the region.

    He indicated that the upgraded port strengthens Ghana’s reputation as a reliable and efficient hub for international commerce.

    “With improved logistics capacity, shorter turnaround times and increased efficiency, this port enhances Ghana’s ability to compete globally. It ensures that our exports reach markets more quickly and that our imports become more affordable for businesses and consumers alike. In a world that is driven by speed, technology and efficiency, Tema Port’s modernisation gives Ghana a competitive advantage. It is a strategic asset in attracting investments, creating jobs and facilitating trade across various sectors,” the President expressed.

    President Mahama originally envisioned the expansion and, in November 2016, officially launched the $1.5 billion initiative, which has now been executed through the MPS–GPHA–APM Terminals–AGL partnership.

    The Government of Ghana has announced that it has submitted a list of twenty-four (24) projects it deems as priority to the Official Creditor Committee (OCC) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

    Presenting the 2025 budget statement to Parliament on July 24, the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, noted that the list submitted is expected to trigger resumption of disbursements for the projects upon the signing of the bilateral agreements between Ghana and creditor countries.

    The sector minister noted that the aim is to ensure that all the priority projects are completed and commissioned by the end of 2028.

    The list of the priority projects is below:

    i. New Bridge Across the Volta River at Volivo

    ii. Construction of the Tema-Aflao Road Project Phase 1;

    iii. Tema Motorway Roundabout, through Ashaiman

    Roundabout to Atimpoku;

    iv. Construction of 14 Pedestrian Bridges;

    v. Kumasi Roads and Drainage Extension;

    vi. Paa Grant Interchange and Sekondi/Takoradi Township Roads—Phase 1;

    vii. Rehabilitation of Dome-Kitase Road;

    viii. Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange—Phase 2;

    ix. Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulimakom Road; x. PTC Roundabout Interchange Project at Takoradi;

    xi. Construction of Drinking Water Facilities in Wenchi;

    xii. Sekondi-Takoradi Water Supply; xiii. Modernization of Komfo-Anokye Teaching Hospital;

    xiv. Construction of Central Medical Stores in Tema;

    xv. Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Takoradi;

    xvi. Bolgatanga Regional Hospital;

    xvii. Establishment of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development at Bunso;

    xviii. Establishment of 9 state-of-the-art technical and vocational education training centers;

    xix. Integrated E-Learning Laboratories in Senior High Schools;

    xx. Expansion and Development of Existing Senior High Schools;

    xxi. Renewable Energy Programme: Pilot Photovoltaic System;

    xxii. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Programme;

    xxiii. Construction of the Takoradi Market; and

    xxiv. Kumasi Central Market Phase 2.

    The main criterion for the selection of these projects was closeness to completion, the sector minister said.

    As a result, projects that were over 70% complete were given priority.

    “The resumption of disbursements for the projects and its associated debt service are fully in line with our

    commitments under the bilateral debt restructuring and the IMF Programme,” Dr Ato Forson said.

    France, Ghana’s bilateral creditor, on Friday, July 25, signed an €87.7 million debt relief agreement with the West African country under the Official Creditor Committee (OCC).

    France becomes Ghana’s first bilateral creditor to do so after two years of negotiations. Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson and Co-Chair of the OCC, Mr William Ross, signed on behalf of the governments of Ghana and France, respectively.

    This agreement ensures a hundred percent debt service, as well as a reduction in interest and an extension on maturity.

    The Finance Minister expressed immense gratitude to France for standing as a true friend. “It is often said that it is only in difficult times that you see your true friends, and we can say without mincing words that the French Republic came through for Ghana and Ghana is extremely grateful,” Dr Cassiel Ato Forson said.

    “Today is a milestone – in the sense that it has taken us some years to get here, but it’s the most significant one that will pave the way for others to this side. Inflation that was once at 54.1 per cent has now come down to 13.7 per cent. We are seeing growth bound to about a five-year high. We are seeing particularly reserves, the external position improving to about four months of import cover, and the primary surplus is at 1.1 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” he added.

    The sector minister assured that the government of Ghana is “determined to hold the line and sustain the progress we have made year to date, and we believe that in the coming days, Ghana will be able to see investment after the stability.”

    Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, asserted that the recent agreement is “telling a good story that Ghana is on track.”

    On his part, Mr William Ross noted that the economic recovery being made by the government of Ghana is nothing short of impressive and compared the country’s economic performance to other countries such as Zambia.

    “We have decided to reduce by 100 per cent as debt service, reduce interest and increase the maturity to give you space for investment, to also negotiate with other creditors and create a real partnership for other stakeholders to contribute to.

    “If you look at what we have done for Ghana, it is shorter than what we did for Zambia, but we have continued to improve in the case of Ethiopia… you have been very impressive because you have many people and institutions to engage with,” Mr Ross said.

    French Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Jules Armand Aniambossou, highlighted the many initiatives the government has put in place to rectify the many economic challenges it was saddled with. He noted that France holds in high esteem its historical relationship with the West African country. He said Ghana will continue to receive support from France to aid its economic recovery.

    “When I came to this country more than two years ago, the country was facing some difficulties. But when your friend or your family is facing difficulties, you have to show that you will not just say, I am sorry, but to take some key actions.

    “That is why the French government at the very high level, decided to do. Because we are here today due to the political volunteers from both sides. France decided not to let down Ghana because of our historical relationship and the key role Ghana is playing in our region [Africa],” he stated.

    Last year, the government of Ghana reached an agreement on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with its Official Creditor Committee in its debt restructuring efforts.

    The OCC, co-chaired by France and China, was instrumental in reaching a debt treatment plan in January 2024.

    This paved the way for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board to approve the second review of the Fund-supported Post-COVID-19 programme for economic growth (PC-PEG).

    The agreement has prevented the government of Ghana from securing more than $250 million in external financing for 2025, and this includes commercial loans, as part of a borrowing ceiling agreed upon.

    This served as a structural benchmark to ensure compliance with fiscal discipline as part of the country’s IMF programme.

    While presenting the 2025 mid-year budget review on July 24, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson noted that the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, prudent debt management, and exchange rate appreciation has resulted in significant improvement in Ghana’s debt profile.

    He revealed that the public debt reduced from GH¢726.7 billion as of the end of December 2024 to GH¢613 billion as of the end of June 2025. Ghana’s public debt reduced by GH¢113.7 billion in six months.

    The sector minister noted that “for the first time in Ghana’s history, there is a negative 15.6% rate of debt accumulation.”

    Ghana’s public debt-to-GDP ratio as of the end of June 2025 was 43.8%, down from 61.8% at the end of 2024. Ghana’s public debt as a percent of GDP reduced by 18% in six months. The country’s foreign debt, as a percentage of total public debt, declined from 57.4% as of the end of December 2024 to 49% by the end of June 2025.

  • Get your passport in a day for GHS2,000; GHS350 for 15 days – Ablakwa to applicant

    Get your passport in a day for GHS2,000; GHS350 for 15 days – Ablakwa to applicant

    The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP), has announced that applicants can now obtain an express passport within a day at a fee of two thousand Ghana cedis (GHS 2,000) and three hundred and fifty cedis (GHS 350.00) within 15 days.

    This, according to the minister, is part of the ongoing Passport Reforms Programme designed to make passport acquisition more efficient, convenient, affordable, and secure for Ghanaians.

    Addressing the media on Wednesday, November 12, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra, Mr Ablakwa indicated that the initiative takes affect from November 13, 2025.

    “You will agree with me that this is such a demanding regime. If you look at the workers who have to be working around the clock, because anytime you apply, within 24 hours you must get it. So after all this consultation and research, we decided that GHS2,000 is a decent sum for that one-day super expedited service,” he announced.

    He further advised applicants to save money by applying for the 15-day package if there are no emergencies.

    “We are saying that if you don’t really have an emergency—there are no exigencies that compel you to apply for that—you can still go for the efficient GHS 350 under the 15-day service, and it will be delivered,” he es

    He assured the public that the fee reduction does not have any implication on the quality of the passport. The decision is rather a reflection of Government’s commitment to making public services more affordable and accessible to all citizens.

    The Minister recalled that the launch of the ICAO compliant chip embedded passport on 28th April, 2025 and disclosed that as at 11th November, 2025 a total number of 215,807 Ghanaians across the sixteen (16) regions of Ghana had successfully applied and received their new passports.

    As part of efforts to improve convenience, the Ministry has also introduced nationwide delivery of passports to the doorstep of applicants at no additional cost.

    In addition, the Passport Head Office has been operating 24-hours to guarantee around the clock service to applicants. He further stated that with an electronic tracking system, applicants are able to monitor the progress of their applications in real time, from approval to printing and delivery.

    He also announced that the Ministry had successfully cleared a backlog of over 40,000 passport applications, restoring public confidence in passport service delivery. He stated that with the reform, passport applications are processed under 15 days.

    Highlighting Ghana’s strengthened global mobility, the Minister revealed that Ghana had secured eleven (11) new visa waiver agreements. This development brings the total number of visa-free destinations available to Ghanaian passport holders to forty-two (42). He added that the Ministry is determined to maintain enhanced security protocols to protect the integrity of Ghana’s passports and avert misuse by non-citizens.

    The Minister reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to decentralising passport services, noting that efforts are being made to ensure that all the sixteen (16) regions in the country have Passport Application Centres (PACs) by the end of 2025.

    On the issue of curbing the activities of intermediaries, the Minister indicated that the Ministry, in collaboration with the security agencies, had successfully dismantled their operations to discontinue the exploitation of applicants and assured that any individual found culpable would be brought to book.

    Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to sustaining the ongoing transformation of passport services to ensure greater efficiency, security, convenience, and affordability for every Ghanaian.

    Meanwhile, the Foreign Affairs Minister has reiterated his commitment to establishing a passport office in each of the sixteen regions nationwide. Speaking at the ceremony organised to hand over diplomatic passports to five distinguished Ghanaians, the Minister disclosed that, “But we still have seven regions without passport application centres. I am delighted to announce that by December, we will make sure every region without a passport application centre has one, starting with Bolgatanga this month”.

    He revealed that the first of the new centres will be commissioned this month in Bolgatanga, as part of efforts to decentralise passport services and improve accessibility across the country.

    The Minister has handed over diplomatic passports to five distinguished Ghanaians: travel vlogger Wode Maya, Grammy-nominated reggae artist Rocky Dawuni, broadcaster and entrepreneur Anita Erskine, contemporary visual artist Ibrahim Mahama, and British-Ghanaian entrepreneur Dentaa Amoateng MBE.

    Mr Ablakwa noted that ongoing reforms within the Foreign Affairs Ministry have already transformed the passport acquisition process, with applicants now receiving their passports in record time through courier services, eliminating the need for stressful trips to collection centres.

    “The Foreign Affairs Ministry has become very efficient, and Ghanaians are already confirming that now it is a smooth process. They are receiving their passports in record time and do not have to stress to pick them up at passport offices, because they are being delivered via courier services.

    The minister announced in mid-September that a new passport application office would be opened in Bolgatanga. Speaking during a press briefing at the Government Accountability Series held in Accra on Monday, September 15, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, revealed that as part of efforts to expedite passport application service, a centre will be launched in October after months of anticipation.

    “I am glad to note that the Bolgatanga passport application centre will be fully operational next month, in October. I know our compatriots in the Upper East have been agitating for this, and I’m glad that next month your suffering will be over. We apologise to you for all the stress and the hustle, but the wait is over. Next month, I will personally be in Bolga to open this new PAC,” he noted.

    He also added that seven new centres will be opened this year to expand coverage.

    “Currently, we have 13 passport application centres in nine regions with a breakdown as follows: three in the Greater Accra Region, two in the Ashanti Region, two in the Northern Region, one in Upper West, one in Eastern, one in Central, one in Volta, one in Western, and one in the Bono Region,” the North Tongu MP continued.

    Also, the Minister revealed that, following the introduction of the chip-embedded biometric passport regime, officially launched on April 28, 2025, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, over 161,824 chip-embedded passports have been printed and more than half delivered to respective applicants.

    “As of 10th September 2025, a total of 161,824 chip-embedded passports have been printed, of which 122,895 have been delivered to applicants. Our reforms have also addressed the critical issue of delays in the processing of passport applications,” he added.

    He said this had been made possible through the new passport operations, which provide 24-hour service.“Additionally, we have rolled out 24-hour passport operations, ensuring a shorter turnaround time for passport issuance and delivery within 15 days to any part of the world,” he noted.

    On passport application booklet fees, the Minister assured that he will keep his promise of fighting for a reduction in price of the booklets, which were increased in 2024 by the Akufo-Addo-led administration with the justification that the adjustment was part of the 2023 fees Regulations, L.I. 2481, which aimed to align service costs with production expenses.

    According to the Minister, his outfit has submitted proposals to Parliament and awaits Parliament’s response on the case.He said, “The ministry has also received the tenders for the passport head office and annexe building project and is currently evaluating them. I’m also pleased to inform this gathering that, in keeping our promise, we have submitted proposals to Parliament as contained in the new Fees and Charges Bill fora reduction in passport fees from 500 Ghana cedis to 350 Ghana cedis for the 32-page booklet.

    “It is expected to come into force once Parliament resumes session and passes the new Fees and Charges Bill.Before Parliament went on break, it was laid, and you know, for laws it has to meet a 21-day count, and we couldn’t get to 21 days before we took the break, but when we resume, certainly the count will be on, and after 21 days, this will come into force”.

    The Fees and Charges Bill is a legislative framework that governs how public institutions in Ghana set, adjust, and collect fees for services they provide. It’s designed to ensure transparency, consistency, and economic relevance in how citizens are charged for accessing government services.

    The North Tongu MP also announced that the long-standing practice of applicants waiting about three months to receive their passports will soon be replaced with a same-day passport issuance service. This express delivery system is expected to greatly reduce the influence of middlemen, popularly known as “goro boys,” who charge applicants exorbitant fees to expedite application services.

    “Meanwhile, we are also introducing a same-day passport delivery service for those with emergencies and members of the business community who may require super express service with a shorter turnaround time beyond the expedited service that we already render, and this is also contained in the new Fees and Charges.

    “So when this new Fees and Charges matures, you will see that a new service provision will come into force where you can obtain a passport in a day without going through a middleman or a “goro boy” as they are infamously called, he added.

    Meanwhile, in July, a total of 40,648 visas were issued by Ghana’s missions in Washington, D.C., and New York from January 2025 to date and out of this, 28,626 were multiple-entry visas to Ghana.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made this information known while debunking reports that it is responsible for the United States government’s revision of the reciprocity schedule for a considerable number of African countries, including Ghana, reducing the B1/B2 visa validity from 5 years multiple entry to 3 months single entry.

  • Young talents, advanced technology key to Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy drive – Secretariat

    Young talents, advanced technology key to Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy drive – Secretariat

    Director and Head of Innovative Finance, Partnerships and Markets Dr. Ishmael Nii Dodoo, at the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat says President John Mahama’s plan to establish a round-the-clock economy will intensely involve accelerated digital transformation.

    At the launch of Ghana Digital and Innovation Week 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre, Dr Dodoo highlighted the role of young people as the “heartbeat of the 24-hour economy ambition,” urging them to take charge as the digital generation that will drive the country’s economic transformation.

    “Imagine a Ghana where it no longer matters whether it is 10 a.m. or 10 p.m., where opportunities are open, jobs are created, and innovation never pauses. That is what we are all working to build within this environment,” he said.

    He highlighted that digital transformation is key to growing markets and generating employment at both local and regional levels.

    Drawing on demographic examples, he pointed out that more than 57 percent of China’s population is under 25, suggesting that Ghana’s young population could similarly drive national development if given access to digital tools and opportunities.

    Dr. Dodoo highlighted key focus areas for Ghana’s 24-hour economy, such as digital education and financial services, smart city and transport infrastructure, and energy solutions to ensure a safe and efficient night-time economy.

    “Without the 24-hour economy, it is just a dream. With it, the 24-hour economy becomes an unstoppable ambition,” he said.

    His comments come as Ghana steps up initiatives to digitalize public services, improve infrastructure, and promote innovation, all aimed at establishing the country as a center for technology-led economic growth.

    The 24-Hour Economy Secretariat, under the Office of the President, is leading initiatives aimed at integrating digital solutions across sectors to enhance productivity and create employment.

    Digital and Innovation Week, which runs this week, brings together government officials, startups, tech entrepreneurs, and international partners to discuss strategies for advancing Ghana’s innovation ecosystem and expanding access to technology across the country.

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

    The policy’s objective is to enhance economic productivity by encouraging businesses to operate continuously, creating more job opportunities, boosting revenue generation, and improving service delivery.

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

    Presenting the policy to the Speaker of Parliament, Kingsford Sumana Alban Bagbin, last week, Mr Goosie Tanoh, the Presidential Advisor on the 24-hour economy policy, mentioned the move is to officially inform ‘the people’s representatives’ about the government’s readiness to roll out the programme.

    On some details on the policy, Mr Goosie Tanoh said the programme is expanded into three anchors: “production transformation, supply chain and market efficiency, and human capital development.” The three anchors, according to him, are supported by eight sub-programmes.

    “Roll 24 – which is the agricultural component, Make 24 – which is the manufacturing component, Connect 24 – the supply chain component, Aspire 24 – which is the mindset change, the resetting of the Ghanaian and Ghanaian bureaucracy with a strong and powerful attitude to work and productivity,” he explained.

    According to him, the government is set to include strong digital technology training in the TVET curriculum to train and equip an employable workforce with the requisite skills for employment opportunities.

    Another component, dubbed ‘Show Ghana,’ is also set to focus on an intentional effort and approach by the government to give visibility to Ghana’s rich cultural heritage to the rest of the world to attract more tourists and increase revenue generation through tourism.

    Speaker Alban Bagbin, in response, mentioned that the team’s arrival had been anticipated and his outfit would call on them for any clarity when the need be, urging the legislation to back the programme.

    Earlier, President John Dramani Mahama stated that the 24-Hour Economy Policy is a long-term goal that will keep the country productive on a 24/7 basis, alongside stabilising the economy through the creation of more jobs.

    According to him, the final draft of the policy has undergone review by him, and he is confident it will realise its objectives.

    Meanwhile, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has noted that the Parliamentary Service will begin operating under the 24-hour economy policy.

    This initiative, according to the Speaker, will enhance national productivity and address unemployment. He made this known during the presentation of the 24-hour economy policy document.

    He bemoaned the lack of time to tackle the numerous tasks in Parliament and expressed optimism in addressing this issue with the 24-hour economy policy.

    “This means they are going to work more hours; they will be reporting at 8:00 a.m. and may be going home at 10:00 p.m. or sometimes 11:00 p.m.—particularly those in the official division of the House.

    This will allow more people to work here and will help reduce unemployment. I can assure you that the load of work here is unimaginable,” Bagbin stated.

  • We are facing challenges as a party but God will help us – Minority leader tells members 

    We are facing challenges as a party but God will help us – Minority leader tells members 

    Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has come to terms with the fact the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is facing internal currently.

    However, he is optimistic that things will change for the better.

    “We are facing some challenges as a party, and admittedly, these are not easy times. However, I strongly believe that God will help us overcome these challenges,” he told party members on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem programme,

    He pointed out that the NPP is not unique in this, as every political party encounters similar challenges.

    “I want to remind all our party foot soldiers and leaders that we are not the only party going through these difficulties. I urge all party faithful to exercise patience as we work through these challenges together,” he appealed.

    Speaking on the matter of differing interests within the party, Afenyo-Markin admitted that members might have regional, religious, or tribal affiliations but emphasized that the NPP’s unity and common goal should take precedence.

    “I know people have various interests—whether regional, religious, or tribal—but as long as you are an NPP member, your interest should be in the NPP and the NPP alone,” he asserted.

    Ahead of the party’s presidential primaries on January 31, Afenyo-Markin urged members to unite after the elections and support the candidate who wins.

    “After the 31st of January, we must support whoever emerges as the winner of the primaries. Whether it is Dr Bawumia, Honourable Kennedy Agyapong, Honourable Adutwum, Honourable Bryan Acheampong, or Kwabena Agyapong, we must come together as one party,” he urged.

    He also cautioned members to be mindful of their words and actions during this period, warning that internal rivalries should not undermine party unity.

    “I know some people still harbour bitterness, but I urge all NPP members to remember that unity is key,” Afenyo-Markin concluded.

    Meanwhile, former Attorney-General and Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joe Ghartey, has called on members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to stop the internal fights and come together to rebuild the party.

    His call came at a time when the NPP is facing internal confusion after losing the recent general elections. Tensions have been rising between some key members, especially the ongoing public exchanges between Bono Regional Chairman Abronye DC and Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong.

    Joe Ghartey said this is not the time for members to be blaming each other. “There is no point in pointing fingers against each other,” he said, adding that “when you point a finger at one person, the other four point at you,” referring to a popular Ghanaian proverb.

    He stressed that no one person—no matter how popular—can lead the NPP to victory in the next election without the full support of a united party. He called for calm, reflection, and smart planning, rather than arguments and blame.

    While many have blamed the party’s leadership, Joe Ghartey believes the problems run deeper. He said the challenges facing the NPP are not just at the top but also include poor coordination and communication across various levels of the party.

    Sharing his own experience, he said that during his time as a Cabinet Minister, he sometimes struggled to reach heads of some government institutions. He chose not to mention names, saying that would not help the party now.

    On the feud between Abronye DC and Kennedy Agyapong, Ghartey urged both men and their followers to put aside their differences. He said the NPP needs peace and cooperation if it wants to regain the trust of Ghanaians.

    “This is not the time for personal battles. This is the time for rebuilding,” he said.

    The head of Public Sector Reforms, Thomas Kusi Boafo, has urged former President John Agyekum Kufuor to actively engage in mediating for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as it works to strengthen its support base before the 2024 elections.

    Boafo emphasized the importance of Kufuor’s involvement to help re-engage members who have become distant or hesitant to back the party’s efforts to maintain power.

    He described Kufuor as a pivotal figure in the Fourth Republic of Ghana.

    “Now we are left with few people to come and join the campaign team because Bawumia is involving everybody. For today, I will say this: Kufuor has to put his feet on the ground. It has been ringing in my head for a long time.

    “He has to start calling certain people. That is how I see it, for him to talk to them in secrecy because no matter what we do in this Fourth Republic, Kufuor was the shine for everybody.

    “He gave Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo the position to become Attorney General and Minister of Justice, and the experience he had is the one that is helping him in his presidency,” he said in an interview on Wontumi TV.

    He encouraged Kufuor to hold private discussions with key individuals.

    “Look at the lawhouse that he has built; I am not sure we can see a similar one in any of the African countries. And from the Attorney General, he made him Foreign Minister. So, Nana Akufo-Addo is also a Kufuor breed. He also promoted Bawumia until he became the Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana for Akufo-Addo to see him and make him his running mate.

    “So, look, the Fourth Republic, everything surrounds Kufuor. So, based on what is going on, he has to wake up because the few people left, want to come,” he added.

  • “We will finalize judgment on Tuesday” – Akosua Serwaa’s lawyer says

    “We will finalize judgment on Tuesday” – Akosua Serwaa’s lawyer says

    Akosua Serwaa’s lawyer, William Kusi Esq., has confirmed that a trial date has been set in her legal dispute with Daddy Lumba’s second wife, Odo Broni.

    Speaking on the matter, he said the court has so far only reviewed issues concerning documents and evidence.

    “We only reviewed issues related to documents and evidence. The case will begin on Monday, and a final judgment is expected by Tuesday,” he explained.

    @koforiduaflowers5

    Full video on YouTube OHENEBA MEDIA #treanding #goviral #fyp

    ♬ original sound – KOFORIDUA_FLOWERS

    The family of the late highlife musician Charles Kwadwo Fosuh, popularly called Daddy Lumba, has finally declared Akosua Serwaa as Daddy Lumba’s only legal wife.

    This was made known in a statement released by the family on October 26, 2025 after Odo Broni failed to provide evidence of her marriage to the late Daddy Lumba.

    “In the absence of any legal proof of marriage, the only recognized and lawful widow remains Mrs. Akosua Serwah Fosuh, who was married to the deceased under the Marriage Ordinance and is recognized under both Ghanaian and German law,” the letter indicated.

    Adding that, “under German Civil Law, since no divorce decree was finalized before Mr. Fosuh’s death, the marriage remained legally valid, thereby confirming Mrs. Fosuh’s legal status and spousal rights in both Germany and Ghana,”

    It stated that no divorce decree was finalized prior to the musician’s passing, which means the marriage “remained legally valid,” thereby granting her authority over the burial and the estate.

    They further cautioned that “any attempt by other individuals or family members to claim authority over the body or conduct funeral rites without the widow’s consent constitutes a violation of Ghanaian law (Cap 127) and internationally recognized spousal rights under German law.”

    The family urged respect from the public and the media, emphasizing that the matter of legal widowhood is “clear, consistent, and self-explanatory.”

    Daddy Lumba’s final funeral rite has been slated for Saturday, December 6, 2025.

    The event will be held at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, as thousands of mourners, including family, friends, industry colleagues, and fans from across the country and beyond, are expected in attendance.

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

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

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

    “Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives. His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience.”

    The bereaved family has respectfully requested privacy as they navigate this profound grief. Details of funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days.

    Daddy Lumba was renowned for his incredible talent as a singer, composer, songwriter, recording artist, and producer.

    With an illustrious career that has spanned over three decades, Daddy Lumba was widely regarded as the greatest and most influential musician in Ghanaian history.

    Many artists in Ghana, including Ofori Amponsah, Sarkodie, Kuami Eugene, Paa Solo of Sibo Brothers, Oheneba Kissi, KiDi, and others, consider him their major inspiration in the music industry.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • I will add 6 more children to the 19 I already have before I quit – Kaakyire Kwame Appiah

    I will add 6 more children to the 19 I already have before I quit – Kaakyire Kwame Appiah

    Highlife musician, Kaakyire Kwame Appiah has revealed plans to have 25 children in his lifetime.

    According to him, he already has nineteen children with nine women.

    “I am looking at getting 25 children and if I achieve that I will be much grateful. Since I am a man and still strong, if you cross you will get a child,” he stated.

    He adds that he is working on a retirement baby who will end his child birth exploits although his last child is four months old.

    Kaakyire Kwame Appiah is of the view that children are God’s gift to man and there is a need to be proud about them if you have them.

    “I’m not shy to talk about my children. I don’t want to die before people come to the realization that I have these number of kids. My kids know themselves and relate very well with each other,” he said.

    Meanwhile, womanizing and rapid unplanned child birth has been cited as part of reasons majority of Ghanaian businesses fail, according to the founder of the A&C mall Andrew Asamoah.

    He claims that because business owners typically don’t plan well, their companies don’t survive their deaths.

    Mr. Asamoah asserted that having children with numerous women frequently jeopardizes the viability of businesses.

    Speaking in an interview on Odana TV, he said: “Because we don’t plan, you must have a vision, you must have a plan. You go some places, someone is a top-class tailor in England, and he makes sure that his son who went to a top-class school comes in, it’s planning.”

    “We don’t plan. And then you are doing business, and you start making money then you start doing women, too many women, having too many children then when you die it becomes a contention. I’ve seen it so much.”

    Business owners should make sure that their families or other relatives are actively involved in their companies, advised Dr. Asamoah.

    Adding that, this will keep businesses should they pass away or become physically unable to manage the affairs of the organization.

    Ghanaian artiste, Wanlov the Kubolor has announced that having children is of more importance to him than marriage.

    Although he legally married in America back in 2006, the father of 10 children, in an interview with GhanaWeb said the plan was not to be a husband.

    In an interview with Doreen Abanema Abayaa on Talkertainment, he confessed to marrying his wife to acquire his Green Card. He however abandoned the plan in the process.

    “I feel like having a child is heavier than a marriage. Having a child is a responsibility between two people and no matter what, you have to uphold… that is superior to me than a wedding.”

    He further explained: “I am actually already married. I got married for Green Card in America in 2006 but I never applied. I just left America and came and so I am still illegally married in America. It was just about papers.”

    In the candid opinion of the crooner of ‘Stubborn Marafaka’, marriage has never been a big deal to him. To him, a union between a man and a woman doesn’t feel normal to him.

    “I don’t think I will dedicate my life to one person and be like in a marriage. I can’t, it doesn’t feel normal to me,” he told GhanaWeb.

    Ghanaian musician Kuami Eugene has opened up on his current views on marriage and family.

    In an interview on Joy Prime, the 27-year-old musician stated that he expects the idea of marriage to come to him when he turns 30, adding that he doesn’t feel the need to settle down just yet.

    Instead of marriage, Kuami Eugene expressed a strong desire to have children.

    He admitted that, at this point in his life, having a family is more appealing to him than the institution of marriage.

    He said his goal is to have a large family, and he mentioned that he would love to have between eight and ten children, as long as his partner is willing.

    Eugene emphasised, “Because I am 27, I should get married? It will start coming to me when I turn 30.”

    “Actually, I prefer to have kids for now. I want to have many children. I want to have eight or ten if she can,” he added.

    Ghanaian musician, Akwaboah, addressed rumors surrounding his marital status and fatherhood, confirming that he has children with different women but did not tie the knot with any of them.

    Speculations arose during Akwaboah’s wedding, suggesting that he had fathered children with multiple women and subsequently left them to marry his new wife, purportedly a virgin.

    These rumors sparked widespread condemnation on social media, prompting Akwaboah to respond subtly to his critics online.

    However, he has now addressed the issue publicly for the first time in an interview with Delay TV.

    Acknowledging his past relationships and fatherhood, Akwaboah emphasized that his decisions were not made lightly and were driven by specific circumstances.

    “In life, these things happen. We give ourselves some timelines or we expect certain things to happen but they don’t go as planned. But we still moved on. Growing up as a man, I wasn’t happy about having children with two separate women and leaving them to marry another. But situations happened and it’s something I cannot explain now,” he told the host Deloris Frimpong Manso.

    “Perhaps if those relationships had been more peaceful, I would have remained in them,” he conceded.

    Asked why he broke the virginity of two women and decided to settle for a virgin, Akwaboah responded, “They were not virgins when I met them. For my wife, I didn’t go for her because she was a virgin. I didn’t even know until I told her I wanted to be with her.”

    Akwaboah’s candid remarks shed light on his personal journey, highlighting the complexities of relationships and the unforeseen twists that life often presents.

  • Ali Bongo’s wife and son sentenced to 20 years for alleged corruption related offences

    Ali Bongo’s wife and son sentenced to 20 years for alleged corruption related offences

    Gabon’s former First Lady, Sylvia Bongo Ondimba, and her son, Noureddin Bongo Valentin, have been sentenced in absentia to 20 years in prison for embezzling public funds.

    Their conviction came after a special criminal court in Libreville found them guilty on several corruption-related charges Tuesday night.

    According to the court’s ruling, Sylvia Bongo was involved in money laundering, misappropriation of funds, and incitement to forgery.

    Her son, Noureddin, faced additional charges including extortion, theft of titles and positions, aggravated money laundering, and criminal conspiracy.

    The pair were also fined 100 million CFA francs — an amount equivalent to roughly 152 thousand euros.

    “I have never embezzled money and I will continue to fight for the truth before independent legal authorities,” Noureddin Bongo Valentin reacted on X after the verdict.

    The public prosecutor sought a 20-year jail term for Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo, accusing them of running a network aimed at diverting state funds for personal gain.

    Both were taken into custody in August 2023, shortly after a coup ended the Bongo family’s 55-year grip on power in Gabon.

    They remained behind bars for nearly 20 months before being released last May and have since gone into exile in London.

    Throughout the proceedings, the pair dismissed the case as politically motivated and declined to appear in court, with their legal representatives also absent.

    In Gabon, military officers have made an appearance on national television to announce their assumption of control.

    They declared the nullification of the outcomes from Saturday’s election, wherein President Ali Bongo had been announced as the victor.

    The electoral commission reported that Mr. Bongo had secured just shy of two-thirds of the votes in a contest that the opposition claimed had been marked by deception.

    If successful, this move would put an end to the 53-year dominance of power by the Bongo family in Gabon.

    Gabon, a significant oil producer in Africa, boasts expansive forest coverage spanning almost 90% of its territory.

    In June 2022, the nation joined the Commonwealth, distinguishing itself as one of the few members without a history of British colonial rule.

    At the dawn of Wednesday morning, a dozen soldiers took to television to declare the invalidation of the election results and the dissolution of “all republican institutions.”

    They further conveyed the closure of the nation’s borders “until further notice.”

    If verified, this occurrence would mark the eighth coup within the former French colonies of Africa within the last three years.

    However, the majority of the other instances have occurred farther north in the Sahel region, where an Islamist insurgency has given rise to growing grievances about the failure of democratically elected governments to safeguard civilian populations.

    Elisabeth Borne, the Prime Minister of France, remarked that her nation was closely monitoring the situation, while the European Union’s chief of foreign policy expressed concerns that a military seizure of power would exacerbate instability in Africa.

    Josep Borrell stated, “This poses a significant challenge for Europe.”

    Meanwhile, Eramet, a French mining conglomerate employing numerous individuals in Gabon, revealed it had halted all operations in the country due to security considerations.

    The soldiers who proclaimed this apparent coup identified themselves as members of the Committee of Transition and the Restoration of Institutions, representing the nation’s security and defense forces.

    One of the soldiers conveyed on Gabon 24 TV channel, “We have chosen to protect peace by terminating the current regime.”

    He attributed this decision to “reckless and unpredictable governance, which has led to an ongoing erosion of social cohesion that jeopardizes pushing the country into turmoil.”

    Gunfire resounded loudly in the capital city, Libreville, following the broadcast.

    A resident in the western city of Port Gentil shared with BBC World Service’s Newsday program that a friend had awakened them to the soldiers’ announcement.

    “They kept replaying a communique on both national TV channels,” they recounted, noting that it appeared that all branches of Gabon’s defense and security forces were involved.

    BBC World Service Africa editor Will Ross suggested that this indicates the coup might not be entirely resolved, and there could be some resistance ahead.

    As of now, there has been no immediate response from the government to the soldiers’ declaration, and the whereabouts of Mr. Bongo remain unknown.

    Internet access, suspended since Saturday’s election due to security reasons, was reinstated shortly after the apparent takeover. Additionally, a curfew has been put in place.

    As in previous general elections in Gabon, there were serious concerns about the process in Saturday’s vote.

    Main opposition candidate Albert Ondo Ossa complained that many polling stations lacked ballot papers bearing his name, while the coalition he represents said the names of some of those who had withdrawn from the presidential race had still been on the ballot sheet.

    Campaign group Reporters Without Borders said foreign media had been banned from setting foot in the country to cover the vote.

    Both of Mr Bongo’s previous wins were disputed as fraudulent by opponents. This time, controversial changes were made to voting papers just weeks before election day.

    Mr Bongo came to power when his father Omar died in 2009.

    In 2018, he suffered a stroke which sidelined him for almost a year and led to calls for him to step aside.

    The following year, a failed coup attempt saw mutinying soldiers sent to prison.

  • My classic “African Queen” song brought me fame and frustration – 2Face

    My classic “African Queen” song brought me fame and frustration – 2Face

    Nigerian music legend Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Face, has described his timeless hit African Queen as both a gift and a burden in his remarkable musical journey.

    In an interview on the Entertainment & Lifestyle show, the artist explained that although the 2004 masterpiece shaped his career, it also came with its fair share of challenges.

    He said: “That song has been a huge blessing and has turned into a problem for me, you know, but like I said earlier, I’m grateful for everything.”

    Looking back on his career, 2baba acknowledged that African Queen remains his signature tune, yet he has created several other songs that fans deeply connect with.

    “There are so many other songs I have that are brilliant, and many people resonate with them too,” according to him.

    Released in 2004 as part of 2baba’s debut solo album Face 2 Face, African Queen catapulted him onto the global stage and secured his place among Africa’s most celebrated music icons.

    The track earned him multiple international accolades, including BET, MTV Europe, and MOBO awards, making him the first African artiste to clinch all three honors.

    Nonetheless, its success has sparked controversy over the years, with his former Plantashun Boiz colleague Ahmedu Augustine Obiabo, popularly known as Blackface, repeatedly accusing him of plagiarism.

    2baba has consistently refuted the allegations, insisting that African Queen was a collective creation during their days as a group rather than an act of theft.

    The long-standing dispute reignited in August 2025 when Billboard named African Queen the Greatest Afrobeats Song of All Time.

    Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the veteran star stirred online reactions after making a surprise announcement that caught many fans off guard.

    Famous Nigerian musician Innocent ‘2Face’ Idibia has revealed that he is separating from his wife, Annie Macaulay, after 13 years of marriage.

    Through a social media post, 2Face shared that they had been living separately for some time and felt it was necessary to let his fans know that divorce proceedings were officially underway.

    In the Instagram post, which quickly gained attention, he pledged to be open and share all relevant details surrounding their split.

    “This thing I have to say is short but also long… Annie Macaulay and I have been separated for a while now and have currently filed for divorce. I will grant a press release soon to share my story—not because it’s anyone’s right to know my personal life, but because I love my people, and I need them to know my innocence or offense. Stay blessed, my people. I love you all.”

    The announcement led to mixed reactions from 2Face’s fans and followers.

    Shortly after, another post surfaced on the same platform, claiming that 2Face’s account had been hacked and the divorce news was false.

    In response, 2Face went live on social media to deny the hacking claim, strongly affirming that he had made the divorce announcement himself and stood by every word.

    The situation became even more controversial when, just days before the announcement, 2Face was seen with an unidentified woman at a club, sparking further rumors about his personal life.

    Meanwhile, Annie has yet to respond to the announcement.

    The couple, who have been together for 24 years and married for 13, share two children.

    Renowned Ghanaian spiritual leader, OneGod The Worldseer, has made a startling prophecy about Nigerian music icon 2Baba and his estranged wife, Annie Idibia, just days after their publicized separation.

    In a video shared on his Facebook page, OneGod claimed that both Annie and 2Baba’s souls have departed their bodies and are now trapped in the spiritual realm. He warned that unless they confront their “dark sides,” their future will be fraught with pain, illness, and sorrow.

    “Only their bodies are alive, but their souls are far gone,” he declared. “The rest of their lives will be filled with struggles, pain, sickness, and tears until bad news finally reigns and their bodies are buried.”

    His prophecy particularly singled out Annie, describing her condition as severe. “That beautiful lady, she is inside a coffin in the spiritual world,” he alleged, painting a grim picture of her spiritual well-being.

    OneGod’s revelation has triggered a wave of mixed reactions, with some followers expressing deep concern while others dismiss it as mere sensationalism.

    The prophecy surfaces amid an already tumultuous period for the couple, whose breakup has dominated entertainment headlines across Africa.

    He introduced his new partner, Natasha Osawaru, to his kinsmen in a simple traditional ceremony held a few days ago.

    The event happened quietly in the Idoma community, where elders welcomed Natasha warmly. As part of the tradition, they gave her special clothes to show that she is now accepted into the family.

    But many people noticed that 2Face’s parents were not at the ceremony. No official reason has been given, but some believe it may be linked to reports that his mother, Mrs. Idibia, is not in support of the relationship.

    This introduction comes months after 2Face proposed to Natasha. Close friends say a wedding might be happening very soon. Natasha has already started using the Idibia name, making people even more convinced that marriage is around the corner.

    2Face was earlier married to Nollywood actress Annie Idibia. In January this year, he announced that their 12-year marriage had ended, and he was moving on to a new phase in his life.

    If the wedding happens, it will be 2Face’s second marriage.

  • Immigration officials clash with U.S. deportees during forced eviction attempt from a hotel in Accra

    Immigration officials clash with U.S. deportees during forced eviction attempt from a hotel in Accra

    Chaos erupted at the VICSEM Hotel in Ogbojo on Tuesday afternoon when officers from the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) attempted to forcibly remove a group of deportees recently returned from the United States.

    Eyewitnesses said the officers arrived in vehicles and tried to move the deportees from the hotel where they had been lodged since their arrival. Viral videos from the scene show a woman being dragged on the floor into a waiting vehicle, drawing public outrage on social media.

    The purpose of the removal remains unclear, but the action appears linked to efforts to relocate the returnees from the facility.

    The deportees form part of an ongoing repatriation arrangement between Ghana and the United States under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) first established during the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

    Government officials have maintained that the agreement is legally binding but does not require parliamentary approval, distinguishing it from treaties or defence pacts. They have also defended Ghana’s acceptance of the deportees as a humanitarian gesture, citing reports of harsh treatment faced by Ghanaians abroad.

    The incident, however, has reignited political debate over the repatriation policy. The Minority in Parliament had earlier accused the government of bypassing parliamentary oversight in accepting 14 deportees under the same arrangement.

    Public concern has further grown following a statement by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa that Ghana expects to receive an additional 40 West African deportees from the United States.

    Human rights lawyer Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who represents some of the returnees, has accused the government of facilitating the deportation of individuals to countries where their lives are in danger. He argues that the U.S. government could not deport these persons directly because they were granted protection on the grounds of a “genuine fear of persecution.”

    By accepting them, he says, Ghana has effectively become an intermediary in the deportation process.

    Months ago, the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) launched a major operation to curb the growing number of foreign street beggars in Accra, leading to the arrest of more than 2,000 individuals across the city.

    The exercise, carried out on Friday, May 16, 2025, resulted in the apprehension of 2,241 foreign nationals, including 384 adult males, 577 male children, 525 adult females, and 755 female children.

    Assistant Commissioner of Immigration and Head of Public Affairs, Mike Amoako-Atta, told TV3 that those arrested were undergoing profiling and medical screening before being relocated.

    “The GIS clinic is attending to them, and after the medical checks, a team undertakes the profiling before they are transported to their various destinations. We also review their documentation to determine how they entered the country and whether their stay is legal,” he explained.

    He emphasized that the Service remained committed to upholding its core values, particularly in safeguarding human rights during the operation. He added that special care was taken to ensure that families were not separated.

    “We are not removing children who are not accompanied by their parents, and we are ensuring that family units remain together,” he stated.

    The GIS operation followed rising concerns about the increasing number of foreign beggars in Accra, many of whom occupy traffic intersections, markets, and busy commercial areas. Authorities say the development poses humanitarian and security challenges, prompting coordinated enforcement efforts.

    Months ago, Ghana entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States titled “Memorandum of Understanding on Repatriation and Temporary Hosting of West African Nationals.” The agreement allows Ghana to accept deportees and temporarily host certain West African nationals deported from the United States, including individuals who may not be Ghanaian citizens.

    By October 2025, reports indicated that 42 deportees had been dropped off in neighbouring countries such as Togo and Nigeria, raising serious human rights concerns about their safety and legal status.

    The United States has pursued similar third-country deportation deals with other African nations, including Eswatini, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Uganda.

    However, the Ghanaian government’s failure to submit the MoU to Parliament has sparked criticism from legal experts, opposition figures, and civil society groups, who accuse the Executive of disregarding constitutional requirements.

    Article 75 of the 1992 Constitution stipulates that the President may execute treaties, agreements, or conventions in Ghana’s name, but such instruments must be ratified either by an Act of Parliament or by a parliamentary resolution supported by a majority of Members of Parliament.

    This means the President cannot unilaterally bind Ghana to any international treaty or agreement without parliamentary approval.

    Legal experts point to past Supreme Court decisions that interpret what qualifies as an international agreement under Article 75. In the case of Margaret Banful and Henry Nana Boakye v. The Attorney-General, the Court, presided over by Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo, ruled that any document binding Ghana to obligations with another country constitutes an international agreement requiring parliamentary ratification.

    Similarly, in Yaw Brogya Gyamfi v. The Attorney-General, Justice Marful-Sau held that even an unsigned Defence Cooperation Agreement between Ghana and the United States created legal obligations and thus required parliamentary approval.

    Based on these precedents, legal observers argue that the Ghana-US deportee MoU imposes obligations on Ghana to accept and host certain deportees, effectively making it an international agreement under Article 75. Critics say the government breached procedure by not presenting the MoU to Parliament for ratification.

    Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has defended the arrangement, describing it as a humanitarian initiative rooted in pan-African solidarity rather than financial or political gain.

    Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on September 15, 2025, he said:

    “Ghana has not received and does not seek any financial compensation or material benefit in relation to this understanding. Our involvement is purely by humanitarian principles and pan-African solidarity, not transactional interests.”

    He also clarified that the arrangement is a Memorandum of Understanding, not a treaty, emphasizing that Ghana retains the right to independently vet each deportee’s background before acceptance.

    Legal Challenge Before the Supreme Court

    The civil society group Democracy Hub, led by activist and lawyer Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has filed a petition at the Supreme Court challenging the legality of the government’s agreement with the U.S.

    The group argues that the arrangement violates Article 75 of the 1992 Constitution because it was not ratified by Parliament. Democracy Hub has also filed for an interlocutory injunction to halt the implementation of the MoU until the case is decided.

    A hearing scheduled for October 22, 2025, was adjourned after the Attorney-General’s Department failed to respond to the application. The Supreme Court has since directed the Attorney-General to file a response within two weeks ahead of the next hearing on November 12, 2025.

  • There is a definite need to improve GAF’s airfleet – Capt Forjoe

    There is a definite need to improve GAF’s airfleet – Capt Forjoe

    Retired pilot with the Aircraft Accidents Investigations Bureau, Ghana, Captain Paul Forjoe has stressed the urgent need to improve the Ghana Armed Forces’ (GAF) air fleet.

    Presenting the investigation report on the Z-9 helicopter that crashed near Brofoyedru in the Ashanti Region on Tuesday, November 11, Capt. Forjoe highlighted several factors that contributed to the incident, with adverse weather conditions identified as one main cause.

    He also put forward several recommendations, one of which is that the Air Force should invest in simulators for recurrent training.

    “There is a definite need to modernize the fleet of the Ghana Air Force. We have recommended that the Air Force acquire modern aircraft, terrain avoidance warning systems and modern navigation systems. That the aircraft should have cockpit voice recorders and flight data recorders. That the Air Force should invest in simulators for recurrent training,” he stated while addressing the media.

    The Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana) has concluded that a sudden, intense downdraft was responsible for the helicopter crash in Ghana that killed eight people.

    This final report addresses the technical aspects of the tragedy, emphasizing the hazardous environmental conditions present over high terrain.

    Captain Paul Forjoe, an investigator and retired pilot with the AAIBG, confirmed the technical cause during a briefing held today, Tuesday, November 11, at the Jubilee House.

    The investigation’s findings point to the deadly combination of rapidly shifting weather and the aircraft’s vulnerability, especially when flying over elevated areas.

    “The investigation determined that the accident was caused by the sudden loss of altitude and lift due to downdraft,” stated Captain Paul Forjoe.

    A downdraft, which is a powerful downward-moving air current, can quickly overwhelm a helicopter’s rotors, sharply reducing the lift they produce. The report explained that this sudden aerodynamic problem happened without any mistakes by the pilot or mechanical faults.

    “This loss of altitude without change in power or pitch attitude is consistent with downdraft associated with changing environmental conditions over high terrain,” Captain Paul Forjoe explained.

    This means that despite the pilot applying the proper power and control inputs, the intense downward air current forced the helicopter down, resulting in the fatal crash.

    The publication of the technical report confirms that the tragedy was caused not by mechanical issues or pilot error, but by the extreme effects of severe weather conditions.

    The deaths of all eight people on board highlight the dangers of flying over mountainous or unpredictable terrain, especially in areas where weather can change abruptly.

    On August 6, 2025, a Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9 helicopter carrying eight people to an event about fighting illegal mining crashed into a forested mountainside in the Ashanti region, killing all eight people on board.

    Among the dead were Ghana’s defence minister Edward Omane Boamah and environment minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

    The rest were acting deputy national security coordinator Limuna Mohammed Muniru, vice chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

    According to the Ghana Armed Forces, the helicopter took off from Kotoka International Airport in Accra at 9:12 a.m., heading northwest into the interior toward the gold-mining area at the Obuasi Black Park in Obuasi, when it went off the radar.

    The helicopter’s wreckage was found later, with all of the victims burnt beyond recognition in a post-crash fire.

    Footage of the crash site showed debris on fire in a forest as people circled around to help.

    The crash was one of Ghana’s worst air disasters in more than a decade.

    The helicopter crash claimed the lives of eight individuals, including the Defence Minister, Dr Omane Boamah and the Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral was held for the eight individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 6, at the Black Star Square.

    On July 6, 2020, former President Nana Akufo-Addo granted executive approval for the laying before Parliament of the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Prevention Bureau Bill, 2020.

    The bill sought to establish an autonomous Bureau to conduct investigations into aircraft accidents and incidents in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).According to the AIB, Article 26 of the Chicago Convention requires every state in which an aviation accident occurs to investigate the event.

    Furthermore, ICAO Annex 13 stipulates that such investigations must be conducted professionally, independently, and without bias.The investigatory body must therefore not only have a legal mandate but also be well-structured, adequately resourced, and autonomous in its operations and findings.

    In 2019, when ICAO conducted a Validation Mission to assess Ghana’s level of Effective Implementation (EI) of its SARPs, the country obtained an impressive EI score of 89.89 percent.

  • Late J.J. Rawlings named after United Nigeria Airlines

    Late J.J. Rawlings named after United Nigeria Airlines

    Ghana’s former President Jerry John Rawlings’ legacy has been honoured five years after his death, with one of Nigeria’s indigenous carriers,  United Nigeria Airlines, naming an aircraft after him.

    The aircraft named “J.J. Rawlings” completed its first flight to Accra on Monday, November 10, with several dignitaries, including Ghana’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Baba Jamal; Chief Professor Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman and CEO of United Nigeria Airlines; senior Nigerian aviation officials, and other guests, signifying United Nigeria Airlines’ debut route between Abuja and Accra.

    A brief inaugural ceremony was held at Terminal 3, Gate C8, upon arrival at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) to unveil the inscription on the aircraft — “J.J. Rawlings… The legend lives on.”

    former Minister and Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South, Fritz Baffour, to unveil the inscription on the aircraft — “J.J. Rawlings… The legend lives on.”  upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport.

    In his address, Chief Professor Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman and CEO of United Nigeria Airlines, extended condolences to the Rawlings family following the recent passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings and requested a minute’s silence in her memory.

    He explained that discussions to commemorate the fifth anniversary of President Rawlings’ passing led to the decision to name one of the airline’s aircraft after the former Ghanaian leader, who was also a trained Air Force pilot.

    Professor Okonkwo pledged that United Nigeria Airlines would uphold high standards and contribute meaningfully to aviation development in West Africa.

    “We are committed to delivering quality and reliability in our operations while strengthening the bond between our two nations,” he affirmed.

    Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, expressed appreciation to the airline for honouring the late former President.

    “President Rawlings once said he would rather live in the hearts of men than have his name on monuments or streets. Today, that statement has been manifested through the naming of this aircraft,” Mr. Adams said.

    He added that the gesture demonstrated the enduring influence of President Rawlings across Africa.

    “Because President Rawlings lives in the hearts of men, he has been recognised even beyond his country. When we say the legend lives on, this is a good demonstration of what it means,” he noted.

    Mr. Adams also recalled the late President’s passion for flying, linking it to his commitment to Ghana’s rural electrification programme.

    “When he flew across Ghana at night and saw lights only in Accra and Kumasi, it inspired him to ensure that electricity reached all corners of the country,” he said.

    Representing the Rawlings family, Fritz Baffour conveyed the family’s gratitude to United Nigeria Airlines for the honour, describing it as a lasting tribute.

    “This gesture will stay forever Ghana and Nigeria share strong bonds — and when we come together, no one can stand us,” he remarked.

    Jerry John Rawlings died on November 12, 2020 after burying his mother.

    The late statesman was born in Accra on 22nd June 1947, to a Ghanaian mother from Dzelukope, near Keta, in the Volta Region, and a Scottish father.

    He received his education at Achimota School, where he earned his General Certificate of Education ‘O’ Level in 1966.

    In August 1967, he joined the Ghana Air Force as a Flight Cadet and later proceeded to the Ghana Military Academy and Training School in Teshie, Accra, for officer cadet training.

    By March 1968, he had been transferred to Takoradi in the Western Region to continue his aviation training.

    He graduated in January 1969 as a commissioned Pilot Officer, earning the prestigious “Speed Bird Trophy” for his exceptional flying skills and airmanship.

    In April 1978, he rose to the rank of Flight-Lieutenant, noted for his competence and strong connection with his fellow officers.

    During his time in the Ghana Air Force, he observed a decline in discipline and morale, mirroring the corruption within the then-ruling Supreme Military Council (SMC).

    As he advanced in rank and interacted more with the country’s elite, he became increasingly aware of the deep social inequalities in Ghana, a realization that made the SMC wary of him.

    An avid reader and deep thinker, he often engaged in discussions on political and social change with a close circle of like-minded officers.

    On May 28, 1979, Flight-Lieutenant Rawlings and six others were brought before a General Court Martial in Accra, accused of leading a mutiny of junior officers and soldiers on May 15, 1979. His statement during the trial, which outlined the social injustices that motivated his actions, sparked widespread public sympathy and reaction.

    Meanwhile, in July 2025 this year, Africa World Airlines (AWA) officially launched a new direct flight route between Accra, Ghana and Burkina Faso’s capital Ouagadougou, marking a significant step in its expansion into the Sahel region.

    The inaugural flight was announced at a brief ceremony in Accra, symbolizing AWA’s strategic commitment to enhancing intra-African connectivity and promoting regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    Founder of Africa World Airlines and Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, underscored the airline’s dedication to strengthening integration across the continent.

    “Our safety record is great. Our reliability is great, and that’s the kind of tradition we expect to continue the service we want to offer our friends from Burkina Faso. Hopefully, through them, we’ll link all of the Sahel to the rest of Africa, in line with President John Mahama’s vision of bringing Burkina Faso and Niger back into the fold,” he stated.

    Togbe Afede XIV also acknowledged the concerns of passengers about rising airfares but assured that the airline remains focused on delivering value while prioritizing safety.

    “I know that our passengers are concerned about ticket prices. We all need to understand that aviation is a very difficult business—capital intensive, with very small margins. Passengers demand the best of services, and we strive to provide the best value for money as we work to integrate the continent,” he explained.

  • Sarkodie to host 2026 Rapperholic concert in the United Kingdom

    Sarkodie to host 2026 Rapperholic concert in the United Kingdom

    Sarkodie has announced that in 2026, his annual concert, Rapperholic, will be held for the first time in the United Kingdom.

    He shared the news during Fameye’s London concert on November 9, 2025, where he surprised the crowd with the update and assured fans that he won’t be coming alone.

    “Next year, we are bringing Rapperholic here. You’re going to see Sarkodie, Black Sherif, Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, R2Bees,” Sarkodie told the excited audience while on stage.

    He added that the 2026 edition will feature some of the biggest artistes in Ghana, such as Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale, Black Sherif, among others.

    Sarkodie thrilled fans with a unique, exciting entry at his this year’s Rapperholic concert in Kumasi.

    Despite the delays in the concert’s commencement time, his legendary entrance to the stage melted any possible disappointment or anger.

    It began with a poetic prelude where the poet praised Sarkodie as one whose glory cannot be boxed or hidden, a reference to his kingship, his heritage as the son of the Ashanti Kingdom, highlighting his well-known title “Landlord”, positioning not just a rapper, but a voice of heritage.

    The speaker invoked the spirit of Kumasi and the Ashanti Kingdom, framing Sarkodie’s homecoming as a symbolic return to the source of his strength. One of the lines of the poet was her praise for Sarkodie as one who “ does not just rhyme, but remembers. He does not just perform, he preserves,” she delivered her rich culture and praise-loaded poem for Sarkodie, with the Ashanti Flag projected on the huge LED screens behind her.

    As the poem ended, Sarkodie’s nickname “Obidi” blazed across the stage in flaming letters, followed by a glowing crown that hovered above, symbolising his reign in Ghanaian rap. Then followed Sarkodie’s performance with legendary rapper Obrafour. The landlord had to pause the high-energy flow to introduce Obrafour, calling him “the reason I rap”. As a sign of respect, he knelt before Obrafour on stage, a deeply emotional moment that drew cheers and chants of “legend, legend!” from the crowd. They performed a remix of “Oye Ohene”.

    Kweku Flick joined Sarkodie on stage while they performed their song “Yɛbɛyɛ Fine”, which translates to “We’ll be fine” in Twi. They both moved in sync with dancers dressed in streetwear fused with traditional prints.

    The current Kumasi star, King Paluta, thrilled fans with their “Africa We Dey” song. Sarkodie opened with a verse on unity and struggle, then passed the mic to Paluta, who unleashed rapid-fire Twi bars.

    Other artists that showed up at the concert were Medikal, who did a solo performance marked with a playful moment chasing Shatta Wale on stage.

    Efya, Gyakie, Kofi Kinaata, Olive The Boy, Donzy, Oseikrom SikaniJay Bahd, Ypee, Beeztrap KOTM, Skyface SDW, Kwesi Amewuga, Lalid, Kofi Jamar, among other acts. Some fans were also invited on stage to freestyle live.

    About Rapperholic 2025

    The concert was held on Saturday, 27, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. When the stadium was announced as the venue to host the concert, concerns were raised by football enthusiasts and stakeholders about the authority approving the concert to be held at the stadium when Ghana is preparing for an international match. Ghana has a mixed history when it comes to the quality of our pitches, with rare cases of consistent maintenance often from hosting football, concerts, and rallies. Lack of pitch covers, among others.

    The Baba Yara pitch is undergoing renovations to meet CAF and FIFA standards, including turf upgrades and drainage improvements.

    Hence, to address these concerns, the Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, clarified that while his outfit has given the rapper the green light to host the concert at the stadium, he has been banned from extending his activities to the pitch itself.

    Acknowledging the poor state of pitches in the Ghana government’s efforts to renovate and add to the number of stadiums nationwide, he explained that, “Sarkodie is prohibited from using the pitch to host the Rapperholic event. The pitch is important to us, and there is no way the event will be hosted on the pitch,” he said during an appearance on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

    He continued that, while Sarkodie has explicitly been told to stay away from the pitch itself, he cautioned that sanctions would be applied if the arrangements were violated.

    “We are aware that there is an agreement in place stating that a penalty or fine will be incurred should that happen, but we are not interested in pursuing that. There are no pitch covers, so we have to put measures in place to ensure that the pitch is safe,” he noted.

    Sarkodie, responding to the NSA’s directive, took to his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to assure fans that, as he had been explicitly directed from the outset, he expressed his intention to host the concert at the stadium and would not break any rules.

    “The rules were set from day 1, and we are not ready to break it (sic),” he said.

    When did Rapperholic start

    The Rapperholic Concert was founded in 2012 to showcase Sarkodie’s music, celebrate Ghanaian rap, and thrill fans with exciting performances from both local and foreign artists. The concert is usually headlined by Sarkodie, who mostly gives opportunities to emerging rappers to perform. Rapperholic is mostly nothing short of an actual display of fashion and culture, with fans dressing in streetwear, among others.

    Sarkodie visits Otumfuor

    Sarkodie visited Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at Manhyia Palace to formally seek royal blessing for the Rapperholic Kumasi Edition. During the meeting, Otumfuo warmly welcomed Sarkodie’s initiative and said:

    “They don’t allow me to go out often, but this one, I would like to attend and watch the event myself.”Sarkordie was there with his team to officially inform the King about the upcoming concert and also seek his blessings and consent. 

  • Daddy Lumba to be buried on December 13

    Daddy Lumba to be buried on December 13

     The burial date for the Highlife musician, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, has been chnaged from 6th December to December 13, 2025.

    According to report, the date extension will provide the family with ample time to know the cause of the musician’s death before his burial.

    The late Daddy Lumba’s elder sister, Ernestina Fosu has declared that there will be no burial for Daddy Lumba until the actual cause of his death is known.

    After a court appearance, Ernestina told Adum TV that until the truth is known, no amount of court ruling or family decision would compel her to allow the funeral to proceed.

    “The funeral will not be held on December 6. We did not seek an injunction because we are mad. We still don’t know what killed my brother. We cannot allow people to rush with his funeral,” she said.

    However, she has expressed readiness to organize the funeral on the scheduled December 6 if she receives a clear explanation about what caused Daddy Lumba’s death before then.

    “There will be no problem if we find out about the cause of Daddy Lumba’s death before December 6. But if we don’t find out what killed my brother, I won’t allow my family to bury my brother, Charles,” she said.

    Ernestina Fosu has earlier indicated that she is not prepared to organize Daddy Lumba’s funeral on Dec 6.

    She made this known to the media in the aftermath of a court proceeding at the Kumasi High Court on October 28, 2025.

    “I am not ready for my brother’s funeral on December 6, 2025,” she stated firmly in a video shared on social media.

    Akosua Serwaa filed an injunction against the late musician’s funeral scheduled for December 6, demanding that she be recognized as the only surviving wife of the musician and not Odo Broni, who is currently claiming that title.

    While the court has yet to rule on the spousal status of Akosua Serwaa and Odo Broni, the Kumasi High Court has dismissed an injunction application that sought to halt the burial and funeral of the late legend.

    The judgment allows the family to go ahead with burial plans as originally arranged.

    Madam Serwaa’s lawyer, William Kusi, insisted that his client was the musician’s only legally recognized wife and that her rights were being ignored in the funeral preparations. He supported his argument with a civil marriage certificate reportedly issued in Germany as evidence of their union.

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

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

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

    “Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives. His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience.”

    Daddy Lumba was renowned for his incredible talent as a singer, composer, songwriter, recording artist, and producer.

    With an illustrious career that has spanned over three decades, Daddy Lumba was widely regarded as the greatest and most influential musician in Ghanaian history.

    Many artists in Ghana, including Ofori Amponsah, Sarkodie, Kuami Eugene, Paa Solo of Sibo Brothers, Oheneba Kissi, KiDi, and others, consider him their major inspiration in the music industry.

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

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

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

    During his time at Juaben Senior High School, he led the school choir and composed the song “Lumba Lumba,” dedicated to the freedom fighters in South Africa.

    This song’s popularity earned him the nickname “Daddy Lumba”, which later became his stage name. He also formed the Lumba Brothers band during his school days, which included his girlfriend at the time, Theresa.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Minority walks out after voting to reject Chief Justice nominee

    Minority walks out after voting to reject Chief Justice nominee

    The Minority Caucus has staged a walkout during the vetting process of Chief Justice nominee Paul Baffoe-Bonnie.

    This unfolded after the Minority leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin led his colleagues in raising issues against the nomination and also the processes that led to the removal of Gertrude Torkornoo as Chief Justice.

    “We vote to reject the nominee, the Majority can proceed with the questions, we do not intend to proceed with any question. We are, however, registering in the strongest terms that we reject the nomination, and the records should reflect that the report of this committee be a majority report,” their leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, said during the vetting process.

    In response, the Chair of the Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, said, “We thank you very much, we wish you well.”

    Tension flared between Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin during the vetting session for the Chief Justice nominee.

    Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, insisted that his caucus reserves the right to refer to Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the contested Chief Justice nominee.

    The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised strong objections to Parliament’s decision to continue with the vetting of Chief Justice nominee Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, calling it a violation of constitutional principles, the rule of law, and a situation that presents a conflict of interest.

    In a statement issued on November 10 and signed by General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua, the party maintained that the vetting should have been put on hold until cases filed by former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo were fully addressed.

    According to the NPP, seven substantive legal actions related to the matter are currently pending before Ghana’s Supreme Court, the High Court, and the ECOWAS Court of Justice.

    Baffoe-Bonnie was nominated by President John Dramani Mahama in accordance with constitutional provisions following the removal of the former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo from office.

    The vetting will assess his qualifications, judicial experience and overall suitability for the role before the committee submits its report to the plenary for consideration.

    This comes despite Minority Members of Parliament filing a motion seeking to halt the vetting of Justice Baffoe-Bonnie.

    In a statement dated October 29, 2025, the Minority indicated that the vetting process should be suspended until all pending suits and applications concerning former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo have been heard and determined.

    The Minority, citing Articles 110(1), 125–127, 144(1) and 146 of the 1992 Constitution and relevant Standing Orders, urged Parliament to suspend the Appointments Committee’s vetting and any plenary debate or approval processes.

    The motion cited cases including the ECOWAS Court suit, Supreme Court and High Court applications.

    “That this Honourable House, having regard to Articles 110(1), 125-127, 144(1) and 146 of the 1992 Constitution and Standing Orders 57(1)-(3), 93, 103(f), 216 and 217, resolves to suspend forthwith all further proceedings, both at the Appointments Committee and at Plenary, on the nomination of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice until all pending suits and applications directly bearing on the removal of Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo (including ECOWAS Court Suit No. ECW/CCJ/APP/32/25 on provisional measures, multiple Supreme Court proceedings, and High Court applications) are finally determined or withdrawn,” the statement said.

    The Minority, led by John Darko, the Member of Parliament for Suame, are also demanding that the Attorney General, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, be summoned before Parliament.

    They are requesting that he provides full details of all pending cases involving former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

    “The Attorney General and Minister of Justice be summoned, pursuant to Article 103 of the Constitution, to appear before this House (or before such committee as the House may designate) 10 provide a comprehensive briefing on the status of all pending litigation relating to the removal of Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo,” the statement added.

    See their demands below:

    a . The identity, jurisdictions, and procedural status of all such proceedings;

    b . Any provisional measures, interim orders, or conservatory orders sought or granted

    c . The reliefs sought in each proceeding and their potential implications for the office of Chief Justice;

    d. Ghana’s international obligations under regional treaties relevant to the ECOWAS Court proceedings;

    e. The Government’s assessment of potential legal and constitutional implications of proceeding with the appointment of a successor Chief Justice whilst such litigation remains pending;

    f. any other matters relevant to Parliament’s informed exercise of its constitutional functions under Article 144(1).

  • Milian TikToker Mariam Cissé killed by suspected Jihadist

    Milian TikToker Mariam Cissé killed by suspected Jihadist

    Milian popular TikToker Mariam Cissé has been killed by suspected jihadists.

    The cause of her death is linked to accusations that she was leveraging her content to help Mali’s army.

    Mariam Cissé believed to be in her 20s, and who has accrued  100,000 TikTok follower was known for sharing videos about life in her Tonka hometown in the northern Timbuktu region and often expressed support for the army.

    The killing of Mariam Cissé has stunned Mali, a country long plagued by a jihadist insurgency since 2012. State television said the young TikToker had only sought to showcase her hometown and support the national army through her social media posts.

    Mali is currently under strain from a fuel blockade enforced by jihadist groups around the capital, Bamako — a move that has crippled daily life and prompted the African Union to express “deep concern.”

    French public radio RFI reported that Cissé was captured by suspected jihadists while live-streaming from a market in a neighbouring town. Her brother told AFP that the militants accused her of providing information to the Malian army about their movements.

    Over the weekend, she was taken by motorbike to her hometown, Tonka, and executed in the town’s Independence Square, with her brother among those watching in the crowd, AFP reported.

    A security source told the agency that she was killed because she was suspected of filming jihadists “for the Malian army.”

    In some of her TikTok videos, Cissé appeared in military attire, with one post captioned “Vive Mali” (Long Live Mali).

    Her death comes as the effects of the ongoing blockade continue to deepen, leaving schools and universities closed for weeks. The government, which suspended learning institutions last month, said it was working to resolve the crisis so classes could resume on Monday.

    However, the situation remains dire. On Friday, the French foreign ministry urged its citizens to leave Mali immediately while commercial flights were still operating.

    On Sunday, AU Commission chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said he was concerned about the “rapid deterioration of the security situation where terrorist groups have imposed blockades, disrupted access to essential supplies, and severely worsened humanitarian conditions for civilian populations”.

    He condemned the “deliberate attacks against innocent civilians” that had caused “unacceptable loss of lives and heightened instability”.

    He added that the AU was ready “to support Mali, as well as all Sahel countries, during this particularly challenging period”.

    Fuel shortages have gripped Mali in recent weeks, particularly in the capital, Bamako, after militants linked to al-Qaeda enforced a blockade by targeting fuel tankers on key highways.

    As a landlocked country, Mali depends entirely on road transport for fuel imports from neighbouring nations such as Senegal and Ivory Coast.

    Despite the military’s takeover in 2021 with pledges to restore stability, jihadist violence has persisted, leaving much of the north and east under militant control.

    Months ago, Mali’s ruling military government announced the indefinite suspension of all political activities, including those of parties and civic organisations, citing “reasons of public order.”

    The decision, formalised in a decree signed on Wednesday by transitional president General Assimi Goita, comes amid growing unrest and criticism of the junta’s extended hold on power.

    The announcement follows a rare pro-democracy protest held in the capital, Bamako, last weekend, during which hundreds of demonstrators defied warnings from the authorities to express opposition to a proposed bill that seeks to dissolve all political parties.

    “I’m not surprised, I expected this because this is their way of preventing us from carrying out our activities, but we will continue to defend democracy in Mali,” said protest leader Cheick Oumar Doumbia.

    A broader movement, consisting of political parties, civil society leaders, and labour organisations, has been calling for “a rapid and credible return to constitutional order through the organisation of transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections.”

    The junta had originally pledged to hold elections in February 2022. However, the timeline has shifted multiple times, raising concerns about the transitional government’s intentions.

    This is not the first instance of political suppression ahead of key decisions. In April 2024, the government similarly halted political activity in advance of an “inter-Malian dialogue,” which eventually recommended extending the transition period from two to five years.

    Meanwhile, Mali, along with Burkina Faso and Niger, formed the Alliance of Sahel States in 2023 after collectively withdrawing from ECOWAS. The move has been interpreted by analysts as an effort to legitimise the military regimes in the face of sanctions and diplomatic isolation.

    All three countries have also distanced themselves from France, their former colonial power, choosing instead to strengthen ties with Russia.

    Security threats continue to mount in Mali, as armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State escalate attacks — a crisis that has plagued the country for over a decade.

  • It’s time to fight with all of me in court – Regina Daniels on marriage dispute

    It’s time to fight with all of me in court – Regina Daniels on marriage dispute

    Nollywood actress, Regina Daniels, has vowed to challenge her husband, Ned Nwoko, in court.

    According to her, her husband, Ned Nwoko, has succeeded in tarnishing her image with allegations that she is a drug addict who needs help.

    While she considers this historic, she has confidently expressed readiness to fight he battles with Ned in court.

    “Now that I have let the one thing you have on me out, what else? It’s time to fight with all of me in court! I’m not backing down now, you narcissistic, manipulative bastard! I’m so pained! I am ruined!! Y’all can laugh, but the laughter won’t be for long as long as I serve my God!,” Regina wrote on Instagram.


    Nigerian politician and Senator, Ned Nwoko, has shared his side of the story regarding the impasse between him and his wife, Regina Daniels.

    Regina had earlier claimed that her husband had caused the arrest of her brother so that she could return home to him, a move she is hesitant about due to alleged abuse and assault.

    Refuting the claim, Ned Nwoko took to X to explain how his brother (Sammy)joined friends to introduce Regina, his wife, to hard drugs and interrupted every plan for her to receive help from rehab.

    He added that Sammy repeatedly harasses his children and domestic staff in his house during his absence.

    “This is someone I sponsored through his last two years at the University of Ekpoma. I bought his musical instruments, rented and furnished a flat for him in Abuja, in addition to the house I bought for Regina in Asaba before our marriage for the use of all of them. I also routinely provided allowances to all members of the family, including her mother, Rita Daniel. Indeed, in the last two years, I have a record of transferring ₦125 million to her alone.”

    “When Regina started her rehabilitation, there was a clear instruction by the doctors to strictly restrict people, especially her enablers, from having access to her. The therapy was arranged after I noticed troubling changes in her behavior linked to her dependence on certain illegal substances, including going for 48 hours without sleeping and eating every two hours.”

    “Unfortunately, Sammy, Destiny, some of their siblings, together with a few of their friends, notably Sonia Uche Montana among others, constantly defied those instructions. They would come into the house uninvited, sometimes forcing their way in, and would bring her the same drugs she was being treated for. Instead of helping her recover, they encouraged her addiction and completely frustrated the efforts of the doctors and therapists working with her.”

    “It is important to note that Lawrence, Sammy, his girlfriend NK, Destiny, Sonia, and others also took the same drugs as Regina. In fact, Lawrence and Sammy were the ones who first introduced and supplied these drugs to her. They were deeply involved in the habit themselves, and rather than helping her get better, they kept drawing her back into the same destructive lifestyle. I do not drink alcohol nor smoke. In fact, I am a vegetarian. So I found these characters and behaviors reprehensible and totally unacceptable.”

    Meanwhile, the actress has asked netizens to put an end to hurling insults at her mother over her estranged marriage to Nigerian senator Ned Nwoko.

    “Stop insulting my mother. She’s the best woman on earth. She warned me. My brothers warned me. Everybody warned me. Nobody’s going to cry on this camera. Everybody warned me, and then I drove out at night. I was going to kill myself if I didn’t marry Ned,” she said in a video posted on her Instagram page on November 5, 2025.

    Contrary to claims that her parent endorsed her marriage to Ned for money, Regina says she was genuinely in love despite opposition from her entire family.

    She recounted an instance where she drove out of home at night to kill herself over her family’s resistance towards her choice of man.

    “I went to the police station and said, ‘Arrest me. My family does not want me to marry the love of my life.’ But I actually did fall in love. It’s crazy, but I did. And I still care and respect him. That’s love. What is love? Care and respect,” she stated.

    Earlier this year, Regina Daniels returned to Instagram after a brief disappearance, but one striking detail has caught fans’ attention—her husband, Senator Ned Nwoko, is missing from her page.

    The Nollywood actress, who had deactivated her account weeks ago, reappeared with a video post captioned, “Even for convoy I Dey with my Google Map 📌#young&accomplished!” However, what stood out was a noticeable change in her profile.

    Her name, previously displayed as Regina Daniels Nwoko, now reads Regina Daniels Nneamaka Favour. In addition, all posts featuring Senator Nwoko have vanished from her account.

    Her social media break coincided with swirling rumors that the senator had welcomed a child with actress Chika Ike—claims he later denied.

    Though Regina has not addressed the changes, her updated profile and missing posts have sparked widespread speculation, with fans flooding her comment section, eager to know the status of her marriage.

    Regina Daniels revealed that her mother and entire family were against her marriage to Ned Nwoko, the Senator from Delta North.

    Disclosing this during a live on Instagram, the actress said: “I went to visit my boyfriend, and I was so angry about why we had to go sightseeing, but when we got there, I met a cute man.

    “The moral of the story is that your boyfriend should not stop you from seeing your husband.

    “When I started with my husband, I forgot I was to have boyfriends; of course, I had like 20. When people think I don’t have a choice, I’m like, what?

    “People were saying Mummy forced me, not knowing that she was against the marriage; my full family said no.”

    Nwoko tied the knot with Regina Daniels in May 2019 in the Aniocha Local Government Area of Delta State, despite their significant age difference.

    The 63-year-old politician expressed that he chose to marry the 23-year-old actress because she hails from his community.

    “For her particularly, I married her because she is from my place. I wanted to marry a wife from my place and was looking for the right person. By the time I met her, I knew she must be the one,” Nwoko had said.

    Nigerian actress Regina Daniels has expressed her deep joy and pride in being a mother of two, describing it as her greatest honor.

    Sharing a touching photo with her children on Instagram on March 31, 2025, Daniels highlighted her commitment to protecting them and doing everything in her power to ensure their happiness and safety.

    “My greatest honour in life is being a mother to these two adorable angels, and everything I will ever do will be for them,” she shared in the post, radiating love and warmth as she celebrated her role as a mother.

    In her message, Daniels emphasized the significance of motherhood in her life, revealing how her children have transformed her world in ways words can hardly capture.

    Beyond the personal celebration, Daniels also surprised her fans with a generous giveaway, pledging ₦50,000 each to 10 lucky followers to do something special for their own families. She encouraged her followers to share what makes their mothers special, adding an extra layer of joy to the celebration.

    “My children are my everything, and I would do anything for them. It is an honor beyond measure,” she said, clearly overjoyed by the blessing of motherhood.

  • Regina Daniels’ family, friends frustrated efforts for her recovery from drug addiction – Ned Nwoko

    Regina Daniels’ family, friends frustrated efforts for her recovery from drug addiction – Ned Nwoko

    Nigerian politician and Senator, Ned Nwoko, has shared his side of the story regarding the impasse between him and his wife, Regina Daniels.

    Regina had earlier claimed that her husband had caused the arrest of her brother so that she could return home to him, a move she is hesitant about due to alleged abuse and assault.

    Refuting the claim, Ned Nwoko took to X to explain how his brother (Sammy)joined friends to introduce Regina, his wife, to hard drugs and interrupted every plan for her to receive help from rehab.

    He added that Sammy repeatedly harasses his children and domestic staff in his house during his absence.

    “This is someone I sponsored through his last two years at the University of Ekpoma. I bought his musical instruments, rented and furnished a flat for him in Abuja, in addition to the house I bought for Regina in Asaba before our marriage for the use of all of them. I also routinely provided allowances to all members of the family, including her mother, Rita Daniel. Indeed, in the last two years, I have a record of transferring ₦125 million to her alone.”

    “When Regina started her rehabilitation, there was a clear instruction by the doctors to strictly restrict people, especially her enablers, from having access to her. The therapy was arranged after I noticed troubling changes in her behavior linked to her dependence on certain illegal substances, including going for 48 hours without sleeping and eating every two hours.”

    “Unfortunately, Sammy, Destiny, some of their siblings, together with a few of their friends, notably Sonia Uche Montana among others, constantly defied those instructions. They would come into the house uninvited, sometimes forcing their way in, and would bring her the same drugs she was being treated for. Instead of helping her recover, they encouraged her addiction and completely frustrated the efforts of the doctors and therapists working with her.”

    “It is important to note that Lawrence, Sammy, his girlfriend NK, Destiny, Sonia, and others also took the same drugs as Regina. In fact, Lawrence and Sammy were the ones who first introduced and supplied these drugs to her. They were deeply involved in the habit themselves, and rather than helping her get better, they kept drawing her back into the same destructive lifestyle. I do not drink alcohol nor smoke. In fact, I am a vegetarian. So I found these characters and behaviors reprehensible and totally unacceptable.”

    Meanwhile, the actress has asked netizens to put an end to hurling insults at her mother over her estranged marriage to Nigerian senator Ned Nwoko.

    “Stop insulting my mother. She’s the best woman on earth. She warned me. My brothers warned me. Everybody warned me. Nobody’s going to cry on this camera. Everybody warned me, and then I drove out at night. I was going to kill myself if I didn’t marry Ned,” she said in a video posted on her Instagram page on November 5, 2025.

    Contrary to claims that her parent endorsed her marriage to Ned for money, Regina says she was genuinely in love despite opposition from her entire family.

    She recounted an instance where she drove out of home at night to kill herself over her family’s resistance towards her choice of man.

    “I went to the police station and said, ‘Arrest me. My family does not want me to marry the love of my life.’ But I actually did fall in love. It’s crazy, but I did. And I still care and respect him. That’s love. What is love? Care and respect,” she stated.

    Earlier this year, Regina Daniels returned to Instagram after a brief disappearance, but one striking detail has caught fans’ attention—her husband, Senator Ned Nwoko, is missing from her page.

    The Nollywood actress, who had deactivated her account weeks ago, reappeared with a video post captioned, “Even for convoy I Dey with my Google Map 📌#young&accomplished!” However, what stood out was a noticeable change in her profile.

    Her name, previously displayed as Regina Daniels Nwoko, now reads Regina Daniels Nneamaka Favour. In addition, all posts featuring Senator Nwoko have vanished from her account.

    Her social media break coincided with swirling rumors that the senator had welcomed a child with actress Chika Ike—claims he later denied.

    Though Regina has not addressed the changes, her updated profile and missing posts have sparked widespread speculation, with fans flooding her comment section, eager to know the status of her marriage.

    Regina Daniels revealed that her mother and entire family were against her marriage to Ned Nwoko, the Senator from Delta North.

    Disclosing this during a live on Instagram, the actress said: “I went to visit my boyfriend, and I was so angry about why we had to go sightseeing, but when we got there, I met a cute man.

    “The moral of the story is that your boyfriend should not stop you from seeing your husband.

    “When I started with my husband, I forgot I was to have boyfriends; of course, I had like 20. When people think I don’t have a choice, I’m like, what?

    “People were saying Mummy forced me, not knowing that she was against the marriage; my full family said no.”

    Nwoko tied the knot with Regina Daniels in May 2019 in the Aniocha Local Government Area of Delta State, despite their significant age difference.

    The 63-year-old politician expressed that he chose to marry the 23-year-old actress because she hails from his community.

    “For her particularly, I married her because she is from my place. I wanted to marry a wife from my place and was looking for the right person. By the time I met her, I knew she must be the one,” Nwoko had said.

    Nigerian actress Regina Daniels has expressed her deep joy and pride in being a mother of two, describing it as her greatest honor.

    Sharing a touching photo with her children on Instagram on March 31, 2025, Daniels highlighted her commitment to protecting them and doing everything in her power to ensure their happiness and safety.

    “My greatest honour in life is being a mother to these two adorable angels, and everything I will ever do will be for them,” she shared in the post, radiating love and warmth as she celebrated her role as a mother.

    In her message, Daniels emphasized the significance of motherhood in her life, revealing how her children have transformed her world in ways words can hardly capture.

    Beyond the personal celebration, Daniels also surprised her fans with a generous giveaway, pledging ₦50,000 each to 10 lucky followers to do something special for their own families. She encouraged her followers to share what makes their mothers special, adding an extra layer of joy to the celebration.

    “My children are my everything, and I would do anything for them. It is an honor beyond measure,” she said, clearly overjoyed by the blessing of motherhood.

  • I want Davido to win the Grammys – Omah Lay prays

    I want Davido to win the Grammys – Omah Lay prays

    Nigerian singer, Stanley Omah Didia, expressed his heartfelt desire to see Afrobeat singer, Davido, win the 2026 Grammys.

    According to him, he is unperturbed about his exemption from the list of nominees but he will be more than joyful to see Davido win this time.

    “I’m excited about this Grammy nomination haha but fr fr I don’t give a sh!t about awards. Yeah but I really want it for OBO! he is the realest friend I’ve had in while, he stood by during my hardest times,” Omah Lay wrote.

    Davido has been consistently nominated in since the Grammys was introduced in 2023.

    Unfortunately, he has yet to see a win.

    Davido officially secured a place in the Recording Academy as a Grammy voting member in September

    He joined the team responsible for vetting entries, nominating and ultimately selecting Grammy winners.

    Davido’s induction was announced in a video shared on Instagram by The Academy on Tuesday

    The Academy, which organizes the prestigious Grammy Awards will hold its 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles.

    Meanwhile, Pastor Nana Yaw Boakye of Royalhouse Chapel International, popularly known as MOGmusic, a Ghanaian gospel musician, also achieved a significant milestone by becoming a member of the Recording Academy in 2023.

    MOGmusic’s admission into the Recording Academy makes him the first Ghanaian gospel artist from Ghana to receive this honor. His application was approved by the Grammy Board, granting him membership into the esteemed organization.

    Upon receiving the news, MOGmusic expressed his elation, describing it as a dream come true.

    This is the pinnacle every musician wishes to get to,” he said. “I am glad to be putting Ghana on the map once again.”

    He further noted that his admission into the academy is motivation for him to do more as a gospel musician.

    MOGmusic has taken his music career to new heights with the release of his latest album, ‘Koinonia Phase II.’

    This follows the success of his previous album, ‘Koinonia Phase I,’ which garnered international acclaim with hit songs like “Grace,” “Mala,” “Your Presence,” “Almighty God,” “Choral Praise,” “Glory to the Lamb,” and “There’s Power.”

    The highly anticipated new album features eight tracks and includes collaborations with esteemed gospel musicians such as Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Pastor Kojo Frimpong, Ps Shadrack Mensah Kwesi, Joey Saff, and Kobby Salm.

    The songs on the album include “Nyankopong,” “Glorious,” “Holy Chant,” “We Cry Yahweh” featuring Pastor Kojo Frimpong, “Be Lifted Medley” featuring Donnie McClurkin, “Covenant Keeper,” “Yesu” featuring Joey Saff and Kobby Salm, and “African Praise” featuring Ps Shadrack Mensah Kwesi.

    MOGmusic, a two-time winner of the VGMA Male Vocal Performance category, has gained global recognition for his soul-stirring music.

    His notable tracks, including the award-winning “Be Lifted,” “Elohim,” and “Living God,” have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the gospel music industry.

    Highly acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, Kwame Yeboah, has recently become a member of the Recording Academy of the Grammy Awards, further solidifying his international recognition.

    This news follows closely after gospel musician MOGMusic also shared his invitation to join the Academy.

    Previous Ghanaian musicians who have been members of the Recording Academy include Rocky Dawuni, Stonebwoy, and Wiyaala.

    “I am honoured to be a Member of this years @recordingacademy.

    I’ll be joining an amazing team of professional Musicians, Artists and Creators to serve and to celebrate music in all its creative form.

    Thank you for your support and looking forward to contributing with this new opportunity,” Kwame wrote on his Facebook page.

    Kwame Yeboah, a talented musician hailing from Ghana, is renowned for his skills as a guitarist, keyboardist, producer, and recording engineer.

    As the leader of the Ohia Beyeya Band, he has collaborated with acclaimed artistes like Stevie Wonder, Shaggy, and Ms Dynamite.

    In Ghana, he has also collaborated with notable names such as Kojo Antwi, Becca, and Osibisa. Kwame Yeboah’s impressive portfolio speaks to his versatility and the caliber of his musical prowess.

    On a different matter regarding the Grammy Awards, Ghanaian musician Kofi Kinaata has addressed his stance on the pursuit of GRAMMY awards, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication over mere ambition.

    In an interview with Nana Romeo on Accra FM on May 16, 2024, Kinaata explained why he doesn’t often talk about winning GRAMMYs, unlike many of his peers.

    “It’s not like I don’t want GRAMMYs. It’s not won by words; it’s rather won by your works. We all play shows abroad… It’s a process. There’s more work to be done at home before we aim for such an award,” he said.

    Kinaata’s comments highlight his belief in tangible accomplishments and consistent effort as the true path to achieving such recognition.

    He urged the music community to continue working hard, stating, “A lot of musicians are playing shows; let’s keep working. Those who are ripe for GRAMMYs, we will support them, those who are not there yet, we shall get there.”

    The GRAMMY Awards, presented by the Recording Academy since 1959, are one of the most prestigious accolades in the music industry, recognizing artistic and technical excellence across various genres and categories.

    Winners are selected by voting members of the Recording Academy, comprising musicians, producers, and other industry professionals.

    Meanwhile Ghanaian dancehall musician Shatta Wale, has taken to social media to express his appreciation to all Ghanaians, especially his fanbase, after the just-announced Grammy nominations excluded his name.

    In a post shared on X on November 7, 2025, Shatta Wale wrote:

    “Hey, thank you all for the support, though.”

    The official nominations for the 69th Grammy Awards, set for February 1, 2026, to be held at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, were released on Friday, November 7, 2025.

    Although submissions were made by Ghanaian artists such as M.anifest, Gyakie, Shatta Wale, MOGmusic, Epixode, and Kwaw Kese in categories like Best African Music Performance and Best Global Music Album, none made it to this year’s shortlist, which features only non-Ghanaian acts.

    Nominees for the Best African Music Performance category include Love by Burna Boy, With You by Davido featuring Omah Lay, Hope & Love by Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin, Gimme Dat by Ayra Starr featuring Wizkid, and PUSH 2 START by Tyla.

  • Suspected fake marriage certificate syndicate napped by police, investigations underway

    Suspected fake marriage certificate syndicate napped by police, investigations underway

    The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has reported that it has launched investigations into a suspected syndicate believed to be arranging and issuing fake marriage certificates to unsuspecting members of the public.

    This illegal act was exposed to the authorities after a client’s marriage certificate, purportedly issued through the syndicate, was rejected by a foreign embassy during a visa application process.

    There were inconsistencies that prompted the matter to be reported to the Assembly.

    Confirming the detection, Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, Mr Gilbert Nii Ankrah, stated that the Assembly immediately referred the matter to the Ghana Police Service for a full-scale investigation.

    He said the preliminary information gathered so far suggested that the individuals involved had been issuing forged documents under the guise of facilitating marriage registration at the AMA.

    Mr Ankrah noted that although no arrests had been made yet, the Assembly is fully cooperating with the police to unravel the network behind the fraudulent scheme and identify all persons involved.

    He stressed that the AMA would not accommodate any move aimed at compromising the integrity of its marriage registration processes.

    Adding that the public must only transact marriage-related businesses directly with the AMA at its Marriage Registry.

    “The matter is currently under investigation, and we urge the public to remain vigilant. Anyone who has been approached by such individuals or suspects foul play should report immediately to the Assembly or the nearest police station,” he stated.

    He entreated the general public to report any of such issues and urged them to verify the authenticity of their marriage certificate from the Assembly.

    The suspects are currently under investigation by the Ghana Police Service to determine the full extent of their operations and bring all offenders to justice.

    Regarding efforts to bust syndicates, the Ghana Police Service rescued Fifty-seven (57) Nigerian nationals from a human trafficking and cybercrime syndicate operating at Adom Estates, Community 25.

    This followed a strategic operation that took place on Wednesday, October 22, led by the CID’s Operations Unit following intelligence gathered on the group’s activities.

    The operation led to the arrest of five suspects alleged to be the master minds behind the syndicate. They include Joel Nosa, Collins Rotimi, Shadrack Lulu, Austin Amahuaro, and John Uloko.

    According to the Police’s preliminary investigations, which were announced through a statement, these suspects lure their victims with promises of jobs and education, and when they finally arrive, they are forced into fraudulent online activities such as romance scams and other illegal activities.

    According to a press statement issued by Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, Public Relations Officer of the CID, “Upon arrival, the victims, aged between 18 and 26 years, were coerced into engaging in online romance scams and other heinous activities,” the statement said.

    During the operation, police retrieved 77 laptops, 38 mobile phones, two vehicles, three television sets, and other internet-enabled devices suspected to have been used in the crimes. The 57 rescued victims are currently receiving care and support, while the suspects remain in police custody, assisting with further investigations.

    The seized items have been retained for forensic analysis.

    The Police Service has urged the public, especially young people, to be cautious about offers of employment, education, or travel made through social media and other unverified sources.

    “The Police reiterate their determination to combat human trafficking, cybercrime, and related offenses, and urge anyone with credible information on such activities to report to the nearest police station,” the statement added.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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