Ghanaian rapper and entrepreneur, Desmond Kwesi Blackmore, popularly known as D-Black, has dismissed the long-standing perception that he comes from a privileged background.
In a post addressing his critics, he rejected claims that he was born with a silver spoon, stressing that his rise has been shaped by struggle, determination, and divine grace.
“My popee lef we den I chop 12, e lef the world inside too den Vera sef no drop. So don’t talk what u uno know. Momee grind heavy watch we. God’s grace wey see we,” he wrote on X.
His remarks highlights the lost of his fathere at a young age abnd the burden huis mothyer carried to raise him and his siblings.
The rapper explained that, contrary to public assumptions, he had to work his way up in the music industry without the luxury of family wealth.
He once shared an inspiring message with his followers, encouraging them to let go of any feelings of entitlement.
In a post on his X handle on January 14, 2025, the “Enjoyment Minister” reminded his fans that no one owes them anything and advised them not to rely on handouts.
Instead, he urged them to take charge of their lives and actively pursue their goals.
No one owes you anything! Not even ur parents. Get that entitlement mentality out your head and then you’ll start to see real growth and success ! Let’s Hustle !— D-Black (@DBLACKGH) January 14, 2025
“No one owes you anything! Not even your parents. Get that entitlement mentality out of your head and then you’ll start to see real growth and success! Let’s Hustle!” he wrote.
D-Black also announced that his new album will be released on March 6.
The tracklist reveals collaborations with several top artists, including Stonebwoy, KiDi, Kwabena Kwabena, Kuami Eugene, Joyce Blessing, and others.
Earlier this year, D-Black, emphasized the importance of passion and perseverance in achieving success in business.
During a conversation about entrepreneurship, D-Black advised individuals to invest their time and resources in ventures they are genuinely passionate about, as it plays a crucial role in staying committed despite challenges.
“When making a decision about what business to invest in or dedicate your time to, I believe you should choose something you are truly passionate about—something that excites you, something that makes you eager to get up in the morning and work on it,” he stated.
According to him, passion is the foundation of success, especially in difficult times when businesses struggle to stay afloat.
“Passion for what you do is key to success. That’s the first thing—be passionate about it. So when things aren’t going well, your love for it will keep you going until it bears fruit,” he added.
D-Black, known for his success in both the music and business industries, urged aspiring entrepreneurs to remain dedicated to their goals and allow their passion to fuel their perseverance.
As at 2024, the Ghanaian rapper and businessman shared insights into his personal life and relationship status.
Speaking with Elsie Lamar on GhanaWeb’s Talkertainment, D-Black revealed that although he has never been married, he was once involved in a committed long-term relationship.
“I’ve never been married. When I came into the music industry, I was in a relationship from when I was 22 to almost 30. So I’ve been single for about seven or eight years,” he shared.
He spoke fondly of the mother of his children, describing her as the most supportive person in his life, which led him to gift her a car on his birthday in 2022.
Despite their close bond, D-Black clarified that they are just friends and are excellent co-parents to their children.
“She’s the most supportive person in my life. When I first started, she used to go to the studio with me. So we’re friends now—very, very good friends, and we co-parent very well,” he explained.
D-Black humorously said, “I’ll marry when I’m 40. I’m looking for a wife.”
In the same month and year, he shared how the unexplained disappearance of hiplife musician Castro led him to step back from the music scene.
In an interview with Elsie Lamar on GhanaWeb’s “Takertainment,” D-Black reflected on the emotional toll Castro’s absence had on him, particularly because many of his popular tracks, such as “Seihor” and “Personal Person,” featured Castro.
He admitted feeling uneasy about performing those songs without the closure of Castro’s body being found.
“When Castro’s situation happened, I took a break from music because the most popular songs I had were with him; Seihor and Personal Person.
“I didn’t feel comfortable going on stage to perform those songs either when they couldn’t find his body,” he stated.
Regarding his nickname “Enjoyment Minister,” he explained that it stems from his foray into the hospitality sector.
“I started a nightclub and an events company, focusing on creating enjoyable experiences. My friends dubbed me that because I was always hosting parties and having a good time,” he said.
The Ministry for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations has announced a decline in financial losses from cybercrime this year, despite rising online threats.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 edition of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) on Wednesday at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Auditorium, the sector Minister, Samuel Nartey George, disclosed that from January to June 2025, the country recorded GHS14.9 million in cybercrime from GHS 23.3 million in the previous year.
Online scams, fraud, blackmail, and unauthorized access attributes to the majority of cybercrime-related financial losses in Ghana, according to the Minister. The Minister cited statistics from the Cyber Security Authority to support his disclosure. The Minister added that, the need for a safer and more accountable digital environment requires collective efforts.
“Statistics from the Cyber Security Authority indicate that Ghana recorded cybercrime-related financial losses of GHS 23.3 million in 2024 and GHS 14.9 million in the first half of 2025, mainly through online fraud, blackmail, and unauthorized access,” he stated.
This year’s campaign, themed “Building a Safe, Informed, and Accountable Digital Space,” focuses on countering misinformation, disinformation, and deepfake manipulation. The Minister noted that Ghana’s internet penetration stood at 70 percent, with 24.3 million users and 7.95 million active social media identities, placing the country 15th globally in social media adoption. He cautioned that “the same connectivity that drives innovation also provides an avenue for exploitation by cybercriminals.”
Mr. George disclosed that his Ministry was working to amend the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) to strengthen regulations that balance innovation with user protection. He further commended the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) for recent joint operations, including a crackdown in Tema that led to 39 arrests, as well as earlier operations between May and July 2025 that netted 65 suspects linked to sophisticated fraud schemes.
“Let me sound a warning to those exploiting foreign nationals to perpetrate cyber fraud: we are on your trail, and we will bring you to justice,” he declared.
The Minister also underscored the role of the media in safeguarding Ghana’s digital ecosystem, urging journalists to raise awareness on issues such as cyberbullying, fraud, and online exploitation. “This campaign cannot succeed without your active participation,” he stressed.
Adding to the discussion, the Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti, highlighted the scale of the threat. Reported cyber incidents rose from 1,317 cases in the first half of 2024 to 2,008 cases in the same period this year. Online fraud alone accounted for 36 percent of reported cases, cyberbullying 25 percent, online blackmail 14 percent, unauthorized access 12 percent, and information disclosure 9 percent.
He noted that financial losses increased by 17 percent year-on-year, reaching GHS 14.9 million in the first half of 2025, with fraud and impersonation responsible for more than 94 percent of the figure.
The Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana, Ing. Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, also addressed the event, stressing the role of academia in Ghana’s cybersecurity agenda. She described digital transformation—through mobile payments, telemedicine, online education, and smart governance—as a driver of growth, but warned that cyberspace remains unsafe.
Sharing her personal experience of being falsely reported dead on social media days earlier, Prof. Kaufmann cautioned that “the very technologies that connect us and drive progress can also be exploited to undermine trust, disrupt economies, and erode the rights and freedoms of citizens.”
She highlighted three areas where academia can bolster cybersecurity: research, capacity building, and innovation.
In connection to cyberattacks, Sam George announced plans to roll out tailored Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions in five key Ministries.
According to a post shared on the ministry’s Facebook page, the Honourable Minister mentioned that recent cyberattacks had targeted multiple government portals, with attempts made to manipulate HR databases.
He attributed these breaches largely to poor personal cyber hygiene, such as logging into official email accounts on unsecured public devices.
Speaking at a stakeholder session on Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness for selected Ministries, held today at the Ministry of Finance, the minister outlined a phased rollout targeting five priority Ministries involving, Finance, Interior, Lands and Natural Resources, Fisheries and Aquaculture including the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations with AI solutions tailored to each institution’s operational needs.
Mr George is therefore poised to collaborate with the Cyber Security Authority to enforce stronger security protocols, enhance user training, and ensure compliance with national standards.
He stressed that AI deployment would be preceded by assessments of each institution’s digital maturity and would be designed to reduce inefficiencies, digitize workflows, and cut operational delays.
The deployment, he noted, would require data standardisation and full utilisation of Ghana’s National Data Centre.
Highlighting cost-saving measures, the Minister cited the success of centralised licensing arrangements with Microsoft, which have already saved the country tens of millions of dollars. He disclosed that similar consolidation of enterprise software contracts was planned to eliminate wasteful spending.
On infrastructure, he announced that the National Data Centre is due for an upgrade to meet current and future hosting demands. Funding discussions with the Ministry of Finance are ongoing to ensure timely completion of the project.
The meeting also reviewed the summary of the National AI Strategy and identified use-cases for the five pilot ministries, with implementation slated for 2026. The Minister encouraged the Ministry of Finance to allocate a dedicated budget line for AI deployment in the 2026 fiscal year.
A month ago, Sam George highlighted Ghana’s commitment to a digital future, emphasizing the country’s dedication to fostering economic growth, innovation, and job creation. He also pointed out that MTN’s decision to establish its second AI lab in Africa plays a key role in this vision, with Ghana being selected as the hub.
He added that Ghana has been selected as the location for MTN’s second artificial intelligence (AI) lab in Africa. According to him, the decision to establish the second lab in Ghana underscores the nation’s growing influence in AI research and technological innovation.
Sam George described the new lab as a “center of excellence,” aimed at driving advancements in AI, machine learning, and digital transformation. The opening of the AI lab is anticipated to foster collaboration among tech leaders, researchers, and innovators, further strengthening Ghana’s expanding digital ecosystem.
The Honourable Minister had also noted that the government of Ghana has signed strategic partnerships with technological giants Huawei and Google.
Updating the members of the general public on the various initiatives taken by his ministry to develop the communication sector as part of the Government Accountability Series in, August, he made this information known.
“In the period under review, we have signed strategic partnerships with Huawei and Google. We entered into a formal partnership arrangement with these technology giants to drive deeper integration between policy research and practical innovation,” Sam Nartey George said.
He noted that these partnerships will see both Google and Huawei train 100,000 beneficiaries each under the One Million Coders Programme.
“This represents a deliberate move to prepare students for the evolving demands of the digital technology economy under President John Dramani Mahama,” the Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation Minister further remarked.
Mr Sam Nartey George expressed gratitude to the two organisations and clarified that the programme will be both online and in person.
“My gratitude goes to both technology giants, Huawei and Google for their belief in the John Dramani Mahama vision. This Google certificate and Huawei training programme are going to be a mix of in-person and online training programmes and so we will be rolling out the programme very soon in every constituency in the country to allow for people to take this training.”
He added, “the beauty of the Google 100,000 training is Google already has its AI research lab in Ghana, and what we are trying to do is train the people using Google’s certification Programme and then, on the back of that, get them employed to work with Google or any of its partners and affiliates.
Famous Nigerian social media figure Peller has expressed readiness to become a father and a husband to his lover, Javis after he announced that he has secured a house for himself.
“Now that I don buy house, the only tin wey remain be say mey I give my baby better opueh make we go born pikin make we dey live successfully and I will marry her, Amen,” Peller said in a video with an attempt to kiss his girlfriend while in a moving vehicle .
About Javis and Peller’s relationship
Jarvis (Amadou Elizabeth Aminata) and Peller (Habeeb Hamzat Adelaja) rose to fame as a dynamic content-creation duo initially regarded as a power couple with electric on-screen chemistry.
Their performances captured audience attention across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, turning them into some of Nigeria’s most-talked-about influencers.
What started as a regular talk show chat took an unexpected turn last year, when Nigerian content creator Peller and his fiancée, Jarvis, had a heated debate about cheating on Honest Brunch.
The couple were engaged at the time and were still enjoying the spotlight from Peller’s big proposal in front of a UK audience.
However, they found themselves tackling one of the toughest topics in relationships, which was about infidelity.
Things escalated when Peller’s casual comments stirred up controversy.
Speaking with a laid-back attitude, he said,
“Let’s not deceive ourselves; it’s almost expected that men will cheat. It’s not right, but society seems to normalize it.”
Peller’s statement, delivered as if it were an undeniable fact, clearly unsettled Jarvis. She shifted uncomfortably in her seat before interrupting him.
“Expected by who?” she interjected sharply, fixing her gaze on him. “How can you sit here, beside me, and speak about cheating as if it’s inevitable? Any man who cheats is a dog—plain and simple. There’s no justification for betraying someone you claim to love.”
Peller, clearly caught off guard, scrambled to explain. “I’m not endorsing cheating,” he said quickly, his voice softening.
“I’m just pointing out how society often turns a blind eye when men do it. But for women, the backlash is unbearable—it’s a double standard.”
“Now that i don buy house, the only thing remaining na to give my baby better Opue, make we go born pikin. I’m not afraid to be a father anymore” – Peller pic.twitter.com/s7O7u2vX25
Rapper, Kwame Ametepee Tsikata, popularly known as M.anifest, has showered praises on songbird, Gyakie, for her vocal prowess.
According to him, Gyakie’s artistry is instantly recognizable and leaves a strong impression on listeners.
“Gyakie has such a great vocal tone. It’s very immediate and felt. Her no frills writing style and effortless delivery cut through in a very effective way,” he wrote on X.
M.anifest further commended the new project, explaining that the songs resonate with him personally. “I enjoyed After Midnight. Consistent vibes,” he added.
The ‘Forever ‘hitmaker officially unveiled After Midnight on August 29, 2025. The 17-track album features notable collaborations with 6lack, Shatta Wale, Omar Sterling, Headie One, and Young Jonn, showcasing Gyakie’s range and versatility.
See M.anifest’s post below.
Gyakie has such a great vocal tone. It's very immediate and felt. Her no frills writing style and effortless delivery cuts thru in a very effective way. I enjoyed 'After Midnight' 💿. Consistent vibes 💙 pic.twitter.com/BVRUpMgur1
Earlier this year, M.anifest unveiled his latest album, New Road & Guava Trees, marking a new chapter in his musical evolution.
The project reflects his continuous pursuit of fresh sounds and perspectives, a principle he strongly upholds in his creative process.
Speaking in an interview on Hitz FM, M.anifest emphasized the importance of growth and reinvention in his artistry.
“I have to evolve. I can’t be doing the same repetitive things. I always explore new ideas, new sounds, and new perspectives,” he said, highlighting his commitment to artistic innovation rather than formulaic trends.
The rapper made it clear that his work is driven by artistic integrity rather than commercial expectations.
“I let the music shape itself. I honor the art. Sometimes I start with a certain vision, but if the process demands that I adjust the canvas, I do it. That’s how I approach my albums.”
Addressing his decision to include 14 tracks on the album, M.anifest noted that the number of songs was not a primary concern. Instead, he focused on creating an immersive and cohesive listening experience.
“It’s not about how many tracks are on an album. It’s about how it makes you feel. After you listen, do you feel like playing it again? That’s what matters to me.”
With New Road & Guava Trees, M.anifest reaffirms his position as a boundary-pushing artist, embracing change while maintaining a deep respect for the craft.
The album serves as a testament to his growth, proving that for M.anifest, evolution is not just an option—it’s a necessity.
The Afro-pop and Afro-fusion singer Gyakien was named in Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 Class of 2025.
The announcement was made on X by Forbes Africa with the caption, “The FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 has officially landed — and this year’s trailblazers are rewriting the rules of what it means to lead.”
The recognition highlighted Gyakie’s soulful sound, cross-border collaborations and influence as a cultural ambassador for Ghana and Africa.
The songbird took to Instagram to express her gratitude for the acknowledgment.
“Grateful to be a part of the @forbesafrica 30 under 30 prestigious list with other amazing people. thanks for the recognition. this is for my fans, family, friends and country,”
She also spoke at the 2025 Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit, sharing insights on her artistic evolution and her genre-blending approach, incorporating Afro-fusion, R&B, hip-hop, and highlife.
She stated recently that her fans in Japan are buzzing her phone as they can’t wait for her performance at the maiden edition of the Afro Jam Festival.
“I’ve been getting a lot of dms from my people in Japan that they cannot wait for me to get there.”
“When I got the information that they needed me for the performance, I had to actually take in that I was going to Asia. I can’t believe it,” she told Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z.
The Afro Jam Festival, slated for July 18 to 27, 2025, will feature other artists including Jason Derulo, Rema, Ruger, and Shenseea.
Gyakie will be performing on July 18 in Okinawa, July 24 in Osaka, and July 27 in Tokyo.
The goal of Afro Jam Fest is to introduce and celebrate Afrobeats culture in Japan.
Japan is fast becoming a market for Afrobeats, the festival is expected to cement the global appeal of the music form.
The “Rent Free” hitmaker has joined Ghanaian musicians, who are making strides in Asia. King Promise, KiDi and the Santrofi band are among artistes in this league.
Popular Ghanaian comedian Abdul Waris Umaru, popularly known as Comedian Warris, has suggested that public support for rising artists often begins with ridicule particularly with those considered “crazy.”
He mentioned the likes of Ay Poyoo, Bosom P-Yung, among others who were supported in the initial stages of their comedy crafts because several Ghanaians belittled them.
Comedian Waris shared during a discussion on GhanaWeb’s X Space, August 29, 2025, hosted by Joseph Henry Mensah and Isaac Dadzie, that;
“In Ghana, people support people they know they are better than. That is the truth. People support people they know, “this one is mad. I am ok. I am better in a way than them. Look at the track record. Look at somebody like Ghana Tupac. Look at somebody like, when we started, they were supporting Bosom P Yung. They were all looking at them like they were mad. People like KIVO, TWILIGHT. All these people, including AY Poyo. All these people in the beginning thought they were better than them, until they realized management had handled them to redirect their brand and to make it better,” he expressed.
Comedian Waris further lashed out at media houses that promote artists extensively when news about them is completely negative.
“The only time some of the media appear on your pages is when there is a failure. You will see a media house posting who the comedian is that you don’t like. Do you think the Nigerian government and the media will put out Burna Boy like they did to Shatta Wale?” he said.
He made this statement on the back of Shatta Wale’s recent case with EOCO, which in his view, the media amplified far more than his artistic achievements.
Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, was detained by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO).
He was detained on Wednesday over an inquiry related to the tax obligations of a yellow Lamborghini vehicle that was seized over a month ago.
On Wednesday night 20th August, he was granted bail of GHC10,000,000 with two sureties to be justified in investigations surrounding a 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a car identified by the FBI and the US Justice Department as proceeds of a $4 million crime.
SPACE Topic: Exploring the Economy of Skit Making in Ghana 🇬🇭
Join Jeffrey Nortey, Nicholas Tetteh Nartey, and Comedian Waris as they dive into the business, creativity, and future of skit making in Ghana.
Meanwhile, Ghanaian reggae/dancehall artist Abdul Razak, also recognized as Iwan, voiced frustration over the media’s perceived lack of support for his songs, attributing it to the lyrical content he selects.
He asserted that despite his endeavors to promote his music, he feels overlooked by the media.
“The issue is always straightforward. The media is not promoting me. I am doing all I can, but I am not getting support. The media have sidelined me, making it appear as if some of us are not trying,” he expressed.
The “Who Is Bad” hitmaker claims that his talent is underappreciated and that people want him to sing about immoral subjects, which he will never do. He declared that he wants to sing about uplifting issues that society needs to hear about.
“Some people don’t understand how a talented artist like Iwan is not gaining traction. Perhaps, they want us to conform to the trend of singing about immoral subjects, but I will always decline that and speak about positive issues that urgently need attention in our society”, he added.
He also encouraged fellow musicians to leverage their art to address societal issues that hold significance for them, including homosexuality.
He emphasized that he will always uphold the truth through his music, acknowledging that many artists shy away from discussing such topics due to concerns about losing their audience.
“I will always speak about it because that is what our songs are supposed to do. Let us be bold and address these issues, as our songs are meant to help correct societal ills,” he said.
Contributing to efforts to give artists more exposure, Dr. Hassan Ayariga, presidential candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC), last year announced a comprehensive plan to nurture emerging talent in the creative arts sector if elected in the December 7, 2024, polls.
In his vision for the future of Ghana’s music industry, Ayariga emphasized the importance of artist education, innovation, and investment. He proposed establishing regional platforms where established artists and producers can mentor young talents, helping them develop their skills and navigate the industry from an early age.
Additionally, he planned to launch an online radio platform that allows budding artists to showcase their music through accessible technology.
To foster growth and elevate the global standing of Ghana’s music scene, the APC government outlineed ten strategic initiatives:
Investment in Infrastructure and Education:
The APC aims to create state-of-the-art music schools and training programs focused on the artistic, technical, and commercial aspects of music.Mentorship programs will be established, pairing seasoned professionals with new artists to guide them in refining their craft and understanding industry dynamics.Leveraging Digital Platforms:
The APC will support artists in utilizing global streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, helping them reach wider audiences beyond local markets.Musicians will be encouraged to harness social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram to promote their work and engage with fans internationally.Enhancing Production Standards:
The government will invest in high-quality recording studios to elevate production standards and encourage collaborations between artists and top producers.Training programs for sound engineers and video directors will be implemented to enhance overall production quality.Strengthening Intellectual Property Rights:
The APC will focus on bolstering copyright laws to protect artists’ rights and ensure they receive fair compensation for their work.Educational initiatives will inform artists about the importance of copyright registration and provide legal support for contracts and royalties.Creating Exposure Platforms:
The APC plans to organize local and international music festivals, providing artists with opportunities to perform and gain recognition on a global scale.Collaborations between Ghanaian and international artists will be facilitated to increase visibility for Ghanaian music.Support from Government and Private Sector:
A music production fund will be established through partnerships with private investors to support artists and industry events financially.Policies will be introduced to simplify international touring and distribution for Ghanaian musicians.Building a Unified Industry Network:
Strengthening organizations like the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) will advocate for artists’ interests and address industry challenges.Collaboration among artists, managers, and producers will be encouraged to create a more cohesive music ecosystem.Promoting Ghanaian Music Globally:
The APC will leverage music for cultural diplomacy, showcasing Ghanaian artists at international events and festivals.Efforts will be made to push for global recognition through international awards, including the Grammys.Encouraging Genre Diversity:
While focusing on Afrobeat and Highlife, the APC will encourage artists to explore genres such as hip-hop, jazz, gospel, and reggae, broadening their audience reach.Developing Music Business Acumen:
Training programs will be established for music managers to help artists navigate contracts and effectively market their music.Stronger distribution networks will be created to ensure that Ghanaian music is accessible worldwide, including the establishment of a Music Royalty Collection Agency to guarantee fair compensation for artists.This comprehensive approach aims to nurture talent, enhance production quality, and elevate Ghana’s music industry on the global stage.
Thirteen thousand five hundred (13,500) nurses have now been placed on the government payroll, according to the Ministry of Health.
This development was made public when the leadership of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) paid a courtesy call on the Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.
Members of the Association were there to render an unqualified apology to the Minister for a recent media attack on his person and discussed strategies to strengthen ties between nurses and the government.
Amidst making amends, a statement was shared on the Health Ministry’s Facebook page, where Honourable Akandoh highlighted some achievements of the current administration, and noted that “the government has made significant strides, including the integration of 13,500 nurses into the government payroll, the establishment of the Ghana Medical Training Fund (GMTF), and the retooling of various government health facilities.”
He also mentioned the payment of arrears on nursing training allowances and National Health Insurance claims, as well as the government’s absorption of half of admission fees for nursing training institutions.
The Minister pledged to see to the successful implementation of the collective bargaining agreement to improve the Condition of service for nurses and to also support the ongoing transformation of the health sector in line with achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
He urged all stakeholders and the general public to remain calm as government is committed to resolving challenges within the health sector.
During the meeting, the GRNMA leadership raised several concerns affecting healthcare professionals and nurses, calling for urgent attention to enhance service delivery.
The leadership who called on the Hon Minister were the former President, Alice Darkoa Asare-Allotey, Immediate past President; Dr. Krobea Asante, the Current President; Perpetual Ofori Ampofo and the General Secretary; Dr. David Tenkorang-Twum.
Members of GRNMA on June 2 withdrew from their posts over delays in their 2024 Collective Agreement. In response, the National Labour Commission (NLC) filed an ex parte application on Thursday, June 5.
A 10-day injunction was placed on the nationwide strike after the Industrial and Labour Division of the High Court in Accra described the protest as illegal.
The GRNMA disclosed that it was yet to formally receive a court order restraining its ongoing strike. Public Relations Officer of the GRNMA, Joseph Krampah, insisted that the group was proceeding with the strike until an official injunction notice was served.
Health Minister Mintah Akandoh, on the matter, revealed that the government waas unable to meet the conditions of service for the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), currently on strike, this year.
Engaging the press, the sector minister announced that the conditions of service being requested to be implemented were not captured in the 2025 budget statement; hence, it will “completely throw the economy off gear if implemented in the manner it currently exists.”
“We are mindful of the serious economic consequences of unbudgeted expenditure and want to avoid the economic slippages that have led to the hardship in the recent past,” the Health Minister revealed.
The Minority in Parliament entreated the government to put in the necessary measures to ensure the strike action was called off.
Dr Afriyie Ayew told the government to work towards providing the conditions of service worked on by the previous government.
“It is our belief that governance is a continuous process regardless of which party is in government public servants are paid, collective bargaining rights which are agreed on remain their rights regardless of which government takes over after elections.”
The nationwide strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) took a heavy toll on the delivery of healthcare services, with many lives being lost due to patients being stranded.
The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) bemoaned the evident rise in mortality cases amid the ongoing strike by nurses and midwives in the country.
General Secretary of MOWAG, Richard Kofi Jordan, noted that the death rate has increased by approximately 100% to 150% due to nurses not being at post.
“Looking at the [number] of deaths compared to the past and now, the death toll has increased significantly, and it is not surprising because of the impact of the nurse’s absence. On average, where we are to record about 10 a day, we are recording about 20 to 25. This tells you that the absence of our nurses is becoming so severe,” he said.
Making reference to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, he mentioned that “we know averagely in Korle Bu, you can have about 50 this time. It has risen above that. Other facilities (like) KATH and all that, we are hearing it.”
According to him, the nurses who are no longer at their posts were mitigating the daily death rate across medical facilities in Accra.
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Honourable Samuel Nartey George, has officially launched the 2025 edition of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM).
The launch proceeded with a strong call for collective responsibility in building a safer and more accountable digital environment.
Speaking at the media launch held on Wednesday at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Auditorium, he said the growing use of digital platforms for business, education, and social interaction must go hand in hand with improved cyber hygiene and institutional accountability.
Hon. Nartey George noted that this year’s campaign, themed “Building a Safe, Informed, and Accountable Digital Space,” focuses on countering misinformation, disinformation, and deepfake manipulation, while pushing for greater responsibility from both citizens and institutions.
Citing DataReportal’s Digital Report 2025, the Minister noted that 24.3 million Ghanaians, representing 70% internet penetration, were online, while 7.95 million identities were active on social media, ranking Ghana 15th globally in social media adoption. “The same connectivity that drives innovation also provides an avenue for exploitation by cybercriminals,” he cautioned.
He said statistics from CSA indicates that Ghana has recorded cybercrime-related financial losses of GHS 23.3 million in 2024 and GHS 14.9 million in the first half of 2025 alone, mainly through online fraud, blackmail, and unauthorized access.
The Minister also disclosed that the Ministry was working to amend the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) to strengthen regulations that balance digital innovation with user safety.
He commended the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the CSA for successful joint operations, including a crackdown in Tema that led to the arrest of 39 suspects last month, and earlier operations between May and July 2025 that saw 65 arrests—many linked to sophisticated cyber fraud schemes. “Let me sound a warning to those exploiting foreign nationals to perpetrate cyber fraud: we are on your trail, and we will bring you to justice,” he said.
Hon. George underscored the critical role of the media, urging journalists to use their platforms to raise awareness on issues such as cyberbullying, fraud, and online exploitation. “This campaign cannot succeed without your active participation,” he said.
Adding to the Minister’s call, the Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti, highlighted the urgent threats confronting Ghana’s digital space. He revealed that reported cyber incidents jumped from 1,317 cases in the first half of 2024 to 2,008 cases in the same period this year, underscoring citizens’ growing exposure to online risks.
“Online fraud alone accounted for 36% of all reported cases, while cyberbullying stood at 25%, online blackmail at 14%, unauthorized access at 12%, and information disclosure at 9%,” Mr. Agbeti stated.
He added that financial losses have risen 17% year-on-year, reaching GHS 14.9 million in the first half of 2025, with fraud and impersonation responsible for more than 94% of these losses.
The Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana, Ing. Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, emphasized the essential role of academia in Ghana’s cybersecurity agenda.
She described Ghana’s digital transformation—spanning mobile payments, telemedicine, online education, and smart governance—as a driver of innovation and economic growth, but cautioned that “cyberspace is not inherently safe.”
Prof. Kaufmann shared her personal experience of being a target of disinformation on social media, noting that just days ago she was falsely reported dead online.
“The very technologies that connect us and drive progress can also be exploited to undermine trust, disrupt economies, and erode the rights and freedoms of citizens,” she warned.
She outlined three key areas where academia contributes to strengthening cybersecurity: Research, Capacity Building and Innovation.
Months ago, Telecom giant MTN Group confirmed a cybersecurity breach that may have compromised the personal data of approximately 5,700 customers in Ghana.
In a statement dated April 28, MTN acknowledged the incident, noting that while the full extent of the breach was still under investigation, “early indications were that about 5,700 MTN Ghana customers’ data may have been affected.”
The company emphasized that all its platforms remained functional and that it closely monitored its systems to safeguard operations. “The confidentiality, integrity and availability of our systems remain central to how we operate and serve our customers,” MTN stated.
The affected customers were to be contacted directly, according to the company, which had since launched a forensic investigation in partnership with top cybersecurity professionals. “We are working closely with leading cybersecurity experts and are conducting a forensic investigation to assess any impact to our environment in line with our established security protocols.”
Although investigations were ongoing, MTN urged all customers to take extra precautions. Users were advised to remain alert and follow standard cybersecurity practices. These included updating all MTN, Mobile Money (MoMo), and banking applications; using strong, unique passwords; and being wary of suspicious messages or links.
Customers were also reminded not to share sensitive information like passwords, PINs, or One-Time Passwords (OTPs) via phone calls, texts, or emails, and to enable multifactor authentication wherever possible. In cases of suspected fraud, MTN recommended placing a fraud alert with major credit bureaus.
“We understand that this incident may raise concerns,” the company said, assuring customers that their privacy remains a top priority. “We will continue to contain and manage this matter carefully.”
MTN has since encouraged concerned customers to reach out through its toll-free number 100 for further information or assistance.
Political Scientist and Head of the Centre for European Studies at the University of Ghana, Dr Kwame Asah-Asante, has commented on the New Patriotic Party’s defeat in Tuesday’s Akwatia by-election
According to him, the New Patriotic Party’s defeat is a clear indication that constituents are no longer influenced by sympathy when casting their votes, but are instead seeking practical benefits from leaders.
“The issue of sympathy vote, you will record that the NPP’s message was that, let us maintain the work of the late MP by honoring him, let us maintain his seat, sympathy. In the literature, sympathy is not one of the reasons why the people vote the way they do, it is bread and butter issue in this country,” he said while discussing the outcome of the polls on Wednesday on JoyNews AM Show.
Dr Kwame Asah-Asante is of the view that candidates who can improve livelihoods through developmental projects appeal more to voters than those who provide lip service.
“Were they sympathetic to the NPP in terms of the fact that we have lost the MP? No!. They shared in the grief of the family and we also associated with that but look, a hungry man is an angry man, he is looking for food and nothing more or nothing less. I am a farmer, I produce my corn and I am looking for a place to sell, and somebody promises me that, I will gravitate towards than to say that we have lost an MP so I should be sympathetic, so sympathy do not have a place in our political choices.”
The election became necessary after the death of the constituency’s representative, Ernest Yaw Kumi, who was reported dead on Monday, July 7. On Monday, August 4, the Electoral Commission conducted balloting to ensure fairness in the order in which candidates appear on the ballot paper.
The National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Bernard Bediako Baidoo was declared Member of Parliament (MP) elect for Akwatia constituency.
He polled 18,199 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP), Solomon Kwame Asumadu who secured 15,235. votes. According to the retaining officer of the Electoral Commission (EC), the total votes were 33,819 with 33,516 valid votes and 303 ballots rejected.
The EC on Tuesday, September 2, held a by-election for constituents in 119 polling stations of the Akwatia constituency to provide constituents a representative, following the sudden passing of their former MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi.
Ernest Kumi was confirmed dead on Monday, July 7, 2025. At the time of his passing, Ernest Kumi had only served the constituency for six months.
On Tuesday, September 2, more than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia cast their ballots to select an MP to represent the constituencyin Parliament.
The NDC elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the other hand, selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.
However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP), was disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. As a result, the disqualified candidate filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.
He has challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him for failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused the delay to provide the required document.
Additionally, he maintains that he completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He further prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.
Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel were deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. The police grouped the constituency into nine security zones to ensure effective coverage.
600 officers were fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise. Prior to the election the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party allegedly held back from signing a peace pact.
This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.
NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.
Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.
The by-election did not witness a lot of chaos, unlike those that occurred during the Ablekuma-North rerun election. In the coming days, constituents of Tamale Central will vote to elect a representative in Parliament. The upcoming by-election is slated for Tuesday, September 30.
This follows the death of its legislator, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. He was among the eight individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 6. He was laid to rest on August 10.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has already cleared 12 out of 16 aspirants who picked up nomination forms to contest the Tamale Central parliamentary primary.
The 12 aspirants were cleared only after the completion of the vetting process. The NDC opened nominations on August 21, for aspirants seeking to contest the Tamale Central Constituency primary.
Nomination forms were available at the Northern Regional Office of the party from Friday, August 22, to Sunday, August 24, 2025, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. each day.
Prospective aspirants will pay a non-refundable nomination fee of GH¢5,000 and a filing fee of GH¢40,000 to be paid in cash only into the party’s official account at UMB Bank, Adabraka Branch. No cheques or bankers’ drafts will be accepted.
There is a slash for …”female aspirants and persons with disabilities are entitled to a 50 per cent reduction on the filing fee. A certified copy of the delegates’ list will be made available to all aspirants after the vetting process.”
A certified copy of the delegates’ list will be made available to all aspirants after the vetting process.
The party has urged all prospective aspirants and stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with these directives and to conduct their campaigns and related activities with decorum, unity, and fairness.”
Meanwhile, the NPP has declared its intention not to participate in the upcoming by-election. According to a statement signed by NPP’s General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the decision was taken by the Party at a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Party Headquarters pursuant to Article 10(10)(1) of the Party Constitution.
According to the statement, this will be the party’s better way of honoring Dr. Murtala Mohammed and the other crash victims.
“In arriving at the decision, the Party considered many factors, including the circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant and the possibility of a further polarization of the country at this critical time.
The NPP is of the belief that it would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to competitive processes in search of a replacement for the departed MP.
The Party believes that the tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided.
“It is the considered view of the Party that the greatest tribute that the NPP and the rest of the nation can pay in honour of the departed, is not only to win the fight against Galamsey but also to ensure a smooth and peaceful replacement for the good people of Tamale Central.
“Consequently, the NPP hereby announces that when the Electoral Commission of Ghana opens nominations for the Tamale Central by-election in line with Article 112 (5) of Ghana’s Constitution, the Party will, in accord with the national interest, not take part in the contest,” parts of the statement read.
Rapper Cardi B has been declared not guilty by a Los Angeles jury in a high-profile civil lawsuit.
The rapper was accused of assault and battery during a 2018 nightclub incidence.
But the case officially ended with the verdict announced on Tuesday, September 2.
Speaking to reporters outside court, Cardi B told the reporters the same key points she had argued in her defense during the trial.
“First things first, I want to thank my lawyers. I want to thank the jurors. I want to thank the judge, and I want to thank the respectful press. I really, really appreciate that and I want to thank everybody at home supporting me,” she said.
Cardi B stressed the personal toll the trial took. “I know you guys having a little key with the moment but to be honest with you, I have missed my kids first day of school today. I missed my kids last day, last week of school yesterday because of this and I’m not even playing around,” she told reporters.
The plaintiff, Emani Ellis had sought roughly 24 million US dollars, saying the alleged attack left her with physical and psychological injuries and harmed her career.
During the trial the woman described being struck and pushed during the confrontation at a Los Angeles club.
She went back to the straightforward denial she had given on the stand. “I will, even if I’m in my deathbed, I swear to God, I will say it in my deathbed. I did not touch that woman. I did not touch that girl,” she stressed.
The singer also used the opportunity to caution others against bringing what she called baseless claims.
“The next person to try to do a frivolous lawsuit against me, I’m going to counter sue and I’m going to make you pay because this is not okay,” she said, adding a firm defence of her hard-earned income. “Don’t ever think that I’m just going to give you my money that I work hard for.”
At the same time, Cardi B urged her fans to show restraint.
“I do also want fans at home though not to find their social media, her family social media, her social media and bother her. I hope that this is something that I leave behind, that she leave behind. Don’t go bother her,” she appealed.
In 2023, Cardi B announced breakup with her spouse, rapper Offset.
She revealed in a recent Instagram Live that she had been dropping hints on social media that she and her partner were no longer together.
“I’ve been single for a minute now, but I have been afraid to like… not afraid, I just don’t know how to tell the world. But I feel like today has been a sign,” she said. “The last time I got on Live, I kind of wanted to tell you guys. But I didn’t know how to tell you, so I changed my mind. But it has been like this for a minute now. I just took it as a sign.”
The “sign” she was referring to was some online business in which Offset’s name was part of an allegation of infidelity that he has denied on social media.
“I don’t think it’s true, I don’t care to find out,” Cardi B said of the chatter.
“It seems like she would prefer to concentrate on the future.”
“I want to start 2024, like, fresh, open,” she said during the IG Live. “I don’t know. I’m curious for a new life, for a new beginning. And yeah, I’m excited.”
In October 2017, the pair publicly announced their engagement when he proposed to her onstage. Subsequently, it was disclosed that they had privately tied the knot in his hometown of Atlanta in September of the same year.
Together, they share a daughter named Kulture, aged 5, and a son named Wave, aged 2.
Cardi B. and Offset have experienced multiple separations in the past, notably in 2018 when he made a grand gesture by crashing her performance at the Rolling Loud Festival in Los Angeles to plead for her reconciliation.
In a similar development in July, music producer and rapper, Sean “Diddy” Combs, was judged not guilty of sex trafficking and being part of a criminal gang by a U.S jury.
However, he was found guilty of bringing women across state lines for prostitution.
The verdict came on Tuesday, July 2, in New York after a high-profile trial that started in May.
The jury spent three days and over 13 hours discussing the case before agreeing on all five charges.
The jury found Combs not guilty of being part of a criminal group (racketeering) and not guilty of sex trafficking singer, Cassie Ventura.
However, he was found guilty of transporting Cassie and other women for ptrostitution.
He was also cleared of sex trafficking another woman referred to as “Jane,” but was found guilty of transporting her and others for prostitution.
The charges came from the testimonies of Cassie and Jane, both of whom had romantic relationships with Combs.
They spoke in Court about being taken to hotels where Combs allegedly arranged for other men to have sex with them while he watched, filmed or gave directions, calling these events “freak-offs” or “hotel nights.”
Before the verdict was announced, Combs was seen praying with his children and hugging his lawyers.
In the room where many were watching, emotions were high and people reacted audibly as each decision was read, even though the judge had asked for silence.
Combs has been in jail since his arrest in September 2024.
Although he was cleared of the most serious charges, his lawyers believe the guilty verdicts shouldn’t stop him from being granted bail.
Ninety-nine (99) double-track Senior High Schools (SHS) will transition back to the single-track system as announced by the Ghana Education Service (GES). It is not clear what may have influenced the action by the Service.
However, according to a press release signed by the Head of Public Relations, Daniel Fenyi, on Monday, the government had made payment of GHC1 billion to the free secondary education programme and cleared all capitation grant arrears, costing GH¢72.8 million.
Additionally, GH¢2.9 billion had been paid to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFUND), and GH¢122.8 million to the Basic Education Certificate Examination registration.
“The School feeding budget increased per child, with GH¢895 million paid to the School Feeding Programme for basic schools,” the release added.
Earlier this year, the Ghana Education Service launched a nationwide survey to gather public feedback on the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy and the Double Track System, aiming to evaluate their impact and uncover the challenges faced by students, parents, and teachers.
The initiative was announced on the Ghana Education Service’s official Facebook page on Saturday, February 22, 2025. The survey sought to assess public understanding of these educational policies, measure their effectiveness, and identify areas that require improvement.
In a call for participation, the Ghana Education Service encouraged students, parents, educators, and the general public to share their experiences and offer suggestions for potential reforms.
Introduced to eliminate financial barriers to secondary education, the Free SHS policy has broadened access to schooling across Ghana. However, it has also faced criticism over issues such as overcrowded classrooms, limited infrastructure, and concerns over the quality of teaching, particularly under the Double Track System, which was implemented to manage the surge in student enrollment.
The double-track system was introduced by the government to manage an increase in the Senior High School student population in relation to limited infrastructure. The introduction of the Free Senior High School policy by the government in 2017 led to an increase in student enrolment, causing a strain on infrastructure.
This consultation marked a significant step toward determining whether the Free SHS and Double Track System are fulfilling their intended goals or if policy adjustments are necessary. As education reform continues to dominate national conversations, the survey’s findings could play a pivotal role in reshaping Ghana’s educational future.
In 2022, the then Deputy Minister for Education. Ntim Fordjour, under the former Akufo-Addo government, reported the abolishment of the double-track system.
When asked during an interview with Okay FM if introducing a new academic calendar will mean the abolishment of the Double Track System, the Deputy Minister for Education answered in the affirmative. He clarified that there would no longer be red, yellow and green tracks, adding that “schools without enough facilities to absorb the current system will have only one batch to be on vacation”.
But in a social media post clarifying the details of the new calendar, the Public Relations officer of the Education Ministry, Kwasi Kwarteng, has stated that the introduction of the new calendar has not brought an end to the double-track system.
“Double Track is not completely abolished. We have eliminated the double-entry of Form One and Form Two students. What it means is that all Form One and Form Two students will go to school each as one cohort, not divided into two,” he wrote.
Kwasi Kwarteng added that the double-track system would be completely abolished once the government fulfils its commitment to building more schools to accommodate the entire student population across the country.
“As more school buildings are completed, entire school populations will report to school at the same time as one cohort as it pertains in Single Track schools,” he added.
Ghana’s historic five hundred (500) Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for heads of missions have been duly launched by President John Dramani Mahama. The initiative is to provide heads of mission with a clear framework for assessing their work and supporting the President’s Reset Vision for the country.
The President was aided by Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru, the Ghana Mantse, to perform the launch at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra, on Monday, September 1, 2025. Delivering his keynote address, President Mahama stated that Ghana’s mission had advanced into paths of economic engagement, facilitating trade, attracting investment, and promoting innovation.
Thus, he charged the heads of missions to promote investments in Ghana’s priority sectors, industrialization, renewable energy, digital services, agro-processing, infrastructure and tourism.
“I charge you to expand our export markets, especially for value-added goods such as processed food, shea butter, textiles, crafts, and digital services. I charge you to move the life of our diaspora not only as remittance of money, but also as investors, innovators, and partners in Ghana’s development,” he said.
The 500 KPIs cover areas such as securing scholarships and promoting exchange programmes with foreign institutions to build human capacity as well as increasing tourist arrivals by a least 10 per cent each year to create jobs and strengthen foreign reserves. They also require strict compliance with financial and procurement rules, enhancing national security through stronger intelligence sharing and partnerships with foreign agencies, navigating Permanent Joint Commissions for Cooperation (PJCC) with major partners, and shifting from renting office spaces to building permanent infrastructure to cut down rent costs.
He stressed that the performance of the heads of missions will be judged not by ceremonial protocols, but by the level of investment, trade, and opportunities they can attract for the country.
President Mahama explained that the Government’s Reset Agenda also focuses on governance, particularly restoring public trust through transparency and accountability. He added that as Ghana’s envoys abroad, the heads of mission are expected to reflect these principles, managing the nation’s missions with integrity, efficiency, and professionalism.
“Our citizens abroad must experience fairness and respect, for our diplomacy’s credibility is inseparable from the credibility of our governments,” he added.
List of newly appointed envoys
Twenty-three individuals have been appointed as ambassadors, high commissioners, and consul-generals following their nomination by President Mahama.
Among the first fifteen appointees 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 remaining eight appointees are Alhaji Abdul-Rahman Harruna Attah, the Ambassador to the Republic of Namibia; Kojo Choi, Ambassador to the Republic of South Korea; Dr. Kwame Ampofo, who will represent Ghana in Hungary; Mona Helen Kabuki Quartey will serve as Ambassador to the Italian Republic; Magnus Kofi Amoatey has been appointed as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Kenneth Akibate is Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Said Sinareis, Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and Paul Evans Aidoo will head Ghana’s mission in the Republic of Kenya.
4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar set for September 5
In an unrelated development, the 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar is slated to commence on September 5 at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). The three-day event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily.
Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the theme “Championing Economic Diplomacy: Connecting Producers, Markets, and Opportunities,” the bazaar seeks to promote Ghanaian products and services globally through economic diplomacy. It will also connect Ghanaian producers with consumers, investors, diplomats, and foreign buyers.
The event is being organized in partnership with institutions such as the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), Ghana Chamber of Commerce, Ghana Enterprises Agency, and the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
Sponsors include Green Coast, GRA, and Zonda, among others.
The official media partners are The Multimedia Group and SP Agency. For inquiries, interested persons may contact 0538 062 264 or 0209 249 932, or email bazaar@mfa.gov.gh. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched the 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar in Accra. At the launch, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stated that the bazaar seeks to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and increase the country’s export of non-traditional goods.
“We are not merely talking about Made-in-Ghana; we are institutionalising it through bold reforms and strategic action,” he said.
He added that the initiative forms part of President Mahama’s vision to make Ghanaian businesses competitive on the international market and drive national self-reliance.
The Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Company (BOST) has been charged by the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) to remit dividends to the government before the end of the year. SIGA’s charge is part of efforts to ensure state-owned enterprises meet their financial obligations.
During BOST’s 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, August 26, in Accra, the Acting Director-General of SIGA, Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte, expressed optimism that BOST would honor its dividend obligations to support the Ghanaian economy.
Prof. Kpessa-Whyte also acknowledged the efforts of BOST’s leadership while stressing SIGA’s expectation for stronger performance in operational efficiency, cost rationalisation, revenue growth, and prudent management of national assets.
“The Board and Management of BOST must demonstrate accountability to SIGA and to Ghanaians who ultimately own this enterprise. Decisions must be guided by their impact on national development and long-term value creation,” Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte stated.
The move comes as state-owned enterprises (SOEs) face mounting pressure to strengthen their finances amid tight government budgets and rising public demands. Many of these entities continue to grapple with losses, mounting debts, and governance challenges, which are fueling demands for reforms to ease their strain on the state.
Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Honourable John Jinapor, applauded BOST’s leadership for the progress made in recent months and encouraged the company to integrate sustainability into its operations to contribute to a cleaner energy future.
Board Chairman, Professor Saint Kuttu, assured stakeholders of the company’s dedication to safeguarding Ghana’s strategic petroleum reserves, while outlining ongoing investments in infrastructure, technology, and governance reforms.
In contrast, the Bui Power Authority (BPA) faces a December ultimatum to commence dividend payments to the government. Speaking at the Bui Power Authority’s 2024 annual general meeting, the General Manager of Operations at SIGA, Millicent Atuguba, called on Bui Power to position itself as a vital economic driver by being efficient, profitable rather than burdening the state.
“Commercial entities like BPA must no longer be perceived as a burden but rather a vital economic asset that drives Ghana’s socio-economic development, especially in the era of a reset agenda. For this reason, our expectations of BPA are straightforward, which are to be efficient, profitable, and to pay dividends to the government of Ghana.”
“By the close of the 2025 financial year, we look forward to BPA demonstrating its commitment by paying a dividend for the first time. This will mark the beginning of a reset where SOEs take their rightful place and significantly contribute to non-tax revenue and national and economic growth,” she said.
Bui Power Authority (BPA) reported total revenue of $139.7 million in 2024 from energy dispatch, slightly above its target of $139.5 million. The performance, however, represents an 11.1 percent decline from the previous year, reflecting reduced generation from lower inflows into its reservoir.
Despite the revenue dip, tighter cost controls pushed net profit to $64.5 million—almost double its target of $33.6 million.
The Board Chairman of BOST, Prof. Saint Kuttu, reiterated the company’s dedication to safeguarding Ghana’s strategic fuel reserves while ensuring dependable storage and transport systems. He pointed to ongoing projects aimed at restoring old facilities, advancing digitalization, and governance at the board level. He pointed to the company’s ongoing commitment to its core mandate of guaranteeing Ghana’s strategic petroleum reserves and providing reliable storage and transportation infrastructure.
“Good governance remains the bedrock of our performance, and the board has strengthened its structures, improved oversight and ensured accountability in all facets of the organisation,” Prof. Kuttu said.
Initially, the Bui Power Authority, established under the 2007 Act (Act 740), was tasked with overseeing the hydroelectric project at Bui and other hydro potential on the Black Volta.
However, an amendment in 2020 (Act 1046) extended its role to cover renewable and clean energy projects throughout Ghana.
Meanwhile, SIGA has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with BOST and other Specified Entities to drive improved performance, accountability, and sustainable value creation for the State.
Reports circulating on social media claim that popular Ghanaian socialite Abu Trica has been arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The yet-to-be-confirmed news was shared by an anonymous whistleblower identified as SelTheBomb, through a cryptic post yesterday.
“Information reaching me is that Abu Trica will trend this week because of cyber something,” SelTheBomb wrote on X.
Months ago, a secret FBI operation also led to the arrest of Ghana’s nightlife mogul and alleged crypto kingpin, Nana Kojo Boateng, popularly known as Dada Joe Remix, with possible extradition to the United States of America (U.S.A).
Sources said he was “scooped up Rambo-style,” over his alleged involvement in fraudulent financial activities.
Even though people have known him as a big player in the oil and gas business, rumors have it that he might have been involved in shady activities behind the scenes.
Panic has reportedly gripped Accra’s elite social circles since the news broke.
Some prominent figures allegedly involved in cryptocurrency, forex trading, and high-end real estate have also allegedly gone into hiding.
Dada Joe Remix could stand trial and face significant legal consequences if convicted.
Official details regarding his arrest and the nature of the charges are yet to be released.
It will be recalled that in 2022, the Nigerian social media influencer, Ramon Abbas, who called himself Ray Hushpuppi and flaunted a lavish lifestyle supported by laundering millions of dollars was sentenced in Los Angeles to more than 11 years in federal prison.
Ramon Abbas, 40, was also ordered by a federal judge to pay $1.7m in restitution to two fraud victims, according to a statement from the United States Department of Justice.
Abbas was “one of the most prolific money launderers in the world,” Don Alway, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles office, said in the statement.
Prosecutors said Abbas and a Canadian man laundered money from various online crimes, including bank cyberheists and business email compromise, or BEC, a prolific crime in which crooks hack into email accounts, pretend to be someone they’re not, and fool victims into wiring money where it doesn’t belong.
Abbas had more than two million Instagram followers before he was arrested in 2020 in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
His social media posts showed him living a life of luxury, complete with private jets, ultra-expensive cars, and high-end clothes and watches.
“I hope someday I will be inspiring more young people to join me on this path,” read one Instagram post by Abbas, who pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of conspiracy to engage in money laundering.
In the aftermath of recent FBI-led operations in Ghana involving suspected fraud, entertainment pundit Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, has pushed for an inquiry into Criss Waddle’s source of wealth.
His concerns come on the back of Criss Waddle’s frequent display of large sums of money and luxurious vehicles on social media.
In an interview spotted by The Independent Ghana on social media, KOKA intimated that since the musician criticized Akufo-Addo’s government over economic hardship, it is appropriate to investigate the legitimacy of his wealth too.
“I am looking for the FBI to ask them to commerce an investigation on Criss Waddle because his source of revenue is questionable to me.”
“Lately, when our girls are celebrating their birthday, you will see them posting their wish list on Snapchat because they don’t want to fry eggs anymore since there are people buying cars for them.”
“The FBI should look for him, and also look for all the cars he has shipped into the country…Those who claim that they bought their Rolls-Royce from Acheke should also be investigated,” he added.
Entertainment pundit Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, has pushed for an inquiry into Criss Waddle’s source of wealth.
His concerns come on the back of Criss Waddle’s frequent display of large sums of money and luxurious vehicles on social media.
In an interview spotted by The Independent Ghana on social media, KOKA intimated that since the musician criticized Akufo-Addo’s government over economic hardship, it is appropriate to investigate the legitimacy of his wealth too.
“I am looking for the FBI to ask them to commerce an investigation on Criss Waddle because his source of revenue is questionable to me.”
“Lately, when our girls are celebrating their birthday, you will see them posting their wish list on Snapchat because they don’t want to fry eggs anymore since there are people buying cars for them.”
“The FBI should look for him, and also look for all the cars he has shipped into the country…Those who claim that they bought their Rolls-Royce from Acheke should also be investigated,” he added.
Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo has been removed from office after a committee set up under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution found her guilty of gross misconduct and stated misbehaviour.
The dismissal followed the petition filed on March 17, 2025, by Mr Daniel Ofori, who accused the Chief Justice of abuse of office and violation of constitutional procedures.
President John Dramani Mahama, after consulting the council of state and establishing that a prima facie case had been made, constituted a five-member committee to investigate the claims.
The committee, chaired by Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang of Supreme Court, included Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazawaanabua Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefee Dzisi of the University of Ghana.
After a full inquiry, the committee’s report pointed to several breaches that, in its view, amounted to stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) of the Constitution and they are;
“[1.9]. In the opinion of the committee, the travel expenses which the Chief Justice heaped on the Judicial Service when she travelled on holidays in September 2023, first to Tanzania with her husband and second, to the United States of America with her daughter, together with the payment of per diem to the spouse and daughter of the Chief Justice, constitute unlawful expenditure of public funds, It cannot be justified in law or policy. Those acts constitute avoidable and reckless dissipation of public funds and, in the view of the committee, to have been occasioned by the overall head of the Judiciary and the Judicial Service, whose duty it is to guard public resources allocated by the Government, is caught within the spectrum of stated misbehaviour.”
“[3.4.] The committee states without fear or favour that the Chief Justice unjustifiably breached the provisions in article 296(a) and (b) of the Constitution, 1992, in the way and manner that she transferred Mr. Baiden. Her conduct amounted to misbehaviour.”
“[6.7]. The committee is of the view that the conduct of the Respondent squarely in the category of conduct described as stated misbehaviour under article 146(1) of the Constitution.”
“[7.5]. The committee is of the opinion that the action and conduct of the Chief Justice falls within the meaning and categories of stated misbehaviour as provided under article 146(1) of the Constitution, 1992.”
“[9.5.] … However, the Chief Justice, qua Chief Justice, cannot lay claim to ignorance of the nomination process and procedure, notwithstanding the fact that the process and procedure are not spelt out in the Constitution but are clear. The appointment of the Chief Justice herself as a Justice of the Supreme Court went through the very process and procedure set out in the Ghana Bar Association case. Therefore, to seek, wittingly, to abort this known process and procedure for appointing Supreme Court Justices amounts to misbehaviour in the eyes of the Committee and the Committee finds it as such.”
“[14.1]. In view of the findings of the Committee in paragraphs 1.9, 3.4, 6.7, 7.5, and 9.5 above, the Committee recommends to the President in accordance with Article 146(7) of the Constitution, that Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey-Torkornoo ought to be REMOVED from office.”
Based on these findings, the committee recommended her removal. Acting in line with Article 146(9), President John Dramani Mahama, by Warrant of Removal under his hand and the Presidential Seal, effected her removal from office as Chief Justice and Justice of the Supreme Court of Ghana yesterday.
In July, an application for review regarding an ‘abuse of court processes’ by the embattled Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, was dismissed by the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court.
The court presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, revealed that several claims, such as illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of adversarial proceedings, were already before the Supreme Court.
Justice Amoako argued that relitigating these issues would result in duplication of litigation and abuse of court processes. As such, such claims were dismissed.
The judge also dismissed reliefs such as an order of certiorari to quash the committee’s proceedings and nullify its sittings on the basis that the Chief Justice did not receive a fair hearing, on jurisdictional grounds.
The judicial review application filed on June 9 this year sought nine reliefs, which included a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to probe her removal from office had acted unlawfully.
She wanted the court to prevent the committee from proceeding with its work without providing her with authenticated copies of the petitions seeking her removal and the subsequent responses.
The Chief Justice notes that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.
As the proceedings of the Article 146 committee are to be held in-camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.
In response, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking compensation worth $10 million over her suspension from office by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.
This forms part of the 10 reliefs being requested. The Chief Justice’s recent suit follows several unsuccessful cases at the Supreme Court this year after her suspension.
The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The measures are;“That the Republic of Ghana suspend the disciplinary/ removal from office as Chief Justice process against the Applicant, pending the hearing and determination of the complaint on the merits.”
“That Ghana refrains from taking any other measures that may harm the rights claimed by the Applicant and /or aggravate or extend the dispute submitted to the Court, or compromise the implementation of any decision that the Court may render.”
“Given the urgency of the situation, the Applicant respectfully requests the Court to hold a hearing on this request as soon as possible, and that the President of the Court ask Ghana to act in order to allow any order that the Court may issue on the Request for Assignment of Precautionary Measures to have its appropriate effect.”
The other reliefs are as follows;“A declaration that the panel instituted by the Respondent (Ghana) to investigate and determine the allegations of misconduct against the Applicant was not constituted to guarantee its independence and impartiality and as such has violated the Applicant’s human right to fair hearing guaranteed by Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025, constitutes a violation of her human right to fair equitable and satisfactory conditions guaranteed by Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025 has exposed her to public ridicule and odium locally and internationally and the said act constitutes a violation of her human right to dignity guaranteed by Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that by subjecting the Applicant to an illegal and unfair investigation and trial since April 2025, the Respondent has inflicted injuries on her professional standing and image, thereby ‘exposing her and her family to immeasurable public ridicule.”
“An order to the Respondent Republic to act immediately to prescribe the rule of procedure to govern the investigation of allegations of misconduct against the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in conformity with the right to fair hearing guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“An order directing the Respondent to immediately lift the suspension and restore the Applicant to full office until the conclusion of fair constitutional proceedings.”
“An order restraining the Respondent from continuing with the purported inquiry for the removal of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in its current form, until it conforms to fair hearing guarantees.”
“An award of USD 10 million as compensation for moral and reputational damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of her illegal suspension and unfair investigation, and lastly, “Any other relief(s) as the Honourable Court deems just.”
The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The applicant has also requested the ECOWAS Court to assign four precautionary measures to the country.Meanwhile, the government’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted claims made by Justice Torkornoo, noting that the Chief Justice’s suspension aligns with the constitution.
On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President John Dramani 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 also, the constitutional duties incumbent upon them.
“And afford the Chief justice due and fair process in the investigation and determination of the disciplinary matters brought against her, including but not limited to full and transparent access to that process by her legal representatives,” the group demanded in a joint statement issued on August 14.
Additionally, the group asked the government for a proper and impartial investigation of the disciplinary charges against her, with her lawyers given full and transparent access to the proceedings.
Also both groups, demanded the establishment of transparent procedural rules to guide the disciplinary process, including a definite timeframe within which the investigative committee must conclude its work and communicate its decision.
In response, the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine emphasised that his outfit can only intervene after the committee concludes its work and submits a report to President John Dramani Mahama.“The suspension will, therefore, remain in effect until the inquiry committee completes its work and submits its report, to which His Excellency, the President will adhere,” he said.
In July, an application for review regarding an ‘abuse of court processes’ by the embattled Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, was dismissed by the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court.
The court presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, revealed that several claims, such as illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of adversarial proceedings, were already before the Supreme Court.
Justice Amoako argued that relitigating these issues would result in duplication of litigation and abuse of court processes. As such, such claims were dismissed.
The judge also dismissed reliefs such as an order of certiorari to quash the committee’s proceedings and nullify its sittings on the basis that the Chief Justice did not receive a fair hearing, on jurisdictional grounds.
The judicial review application filed on June 9 this year sought nine reliefs, which included a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to probe her removal from office had acted unlawfully.
She wanted the court to prevent the committee from proceeding with its work without providing her with authenticated copies of the petitions seeking her removal and the subsequent responses.
The Chief Justice notes that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.
As the proceedings of the Article 146 committee are to be held in-camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.
In response, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking compensation worth $10 million over her suspension from office by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.
This forms part of the 10 reliefs being requested. The Chief Justice’s recent suit follows several unsuccessful cases at the Supreme Court this year after her suspension.
The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The measures are;“That the Republic of Ghana suspend the disciplinary/ removal from office as Chief Justice process against the Applicant, pending the hearing and determination of the complaint on the merits.”
“That Ghana refrains from taking any other measures that may harm the rights claimed by the Applicant and /or aggravate or extend the dispute submitted to the Court, or compromise the implementation of any decision that the Court may render.”
“Given the urgency of the situation, the Applicant respectfully requests the Court to hold a hearing on this request as soon as possible, and that the President of the Court ask Ghana to act in order to allow any order that the Court may issue on the Request for Assignment of Precautionary Measures to have its appropriate effect.”
The other reliefs are as follows;“A declaration that the panel instituted by the Respondent (Ghana) to investigate and determine the allegations of misconduct against the Applicant was not constituted to guarantee its independence and impartiality and as such has violated the Applicant’s human right to fair hearing guaranteed by Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025, constitutes a violation of her human right to fair equitable and satisfactory conditions guaranteed by Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025 has exposed her to public ridicule and odium locally and internationally and the said act constitutes a violation of her human right to dignity guaranteed by Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that by subjecting the Applicant to an illegal and unfair investigation and trial since April 2025, the Respondent has inflicted injuries on her professional standing and image, thereby ‘exposing her and her family to immeasurable public ridicule.”
“An order to the Respondent Republic to act immediately to prescribe the rule of procedure to govern the investigation of allegations of misconduct against the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in conformity with the right to fair hearing guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“An order directing the Respondent to immediately lift the suspension and restore the Applicant to full office until the conclusion of fair constitutional proceedings.”
“An order restraining the Respondent from continuing with the purported inquiry for the removal of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in its current form, until it conforms to fair hearing guarantees.”
“An award of USD 10 million as compensation for moral and reputational damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of her illegal suspension and unfair investigation, and lastly, “Any other relief(s) as the Honourable Court deems just.”
The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The applicant has also requested the ECOWAS Court to assign four precautionary measures to the country.Meanwhile, the government’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted claims made by Justice Torkornoo, noting that the Chief Justice’s suspension aligns with the constitution.
On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President John Dramani 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 also, the constitutional duties incumbent upon them.
“And afford the Chief justice due and fair process in the investigation and determination of the disciplinary matters brought against her, including but not limited to full and transparent access to that process by her legal representatives,” the group demanded in a joint statement issued on August 14.
Additionally, the group asked the government for a proper and impartial investigation of the disciplinary charges against her, with her lawyers given full and transparent access to the proceedings.
Also both groups, demanded the establishment of transparent procedural rules to guide the disciplinary process, including a definite timeframe within which the investigative committee must conclude its work and communicate its decision.
In response, the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine emphasised that his outfit can only intervene after the committee concludes its work and submits a report to President John Dramani Mahama.“The suspension will, therefore, remain in effect until the inquiry committee completes its work and submits its report, to which His Excellency, the President will adhere,” he said.
Meanwhile, former President Nana Akufo-Addo earlier this year, rejected a petition seeking to remove Chief Justice Torkornoo. After consultations with the Council of State, he determined that the petition, submitted by Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare, lacked merit and did not establish a prima facie case for further investigation.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.
This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.
NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.
Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.
The Akwatia by-election is slated for Tuesday, September 2. The election has become a necessity following the tragic passing of the Member of Parliament for the area, Ernest Yaw Kumi, who had only served for six months.
Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the upcoming by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.
Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.
Following the disturbance and violence that erupted during the Ablekuma North by-elections, police have beefed up efforts to prevent a similar occurrence at Akwatia.
“I want to appeal to the people of Akwatia that the presence of the security and the Electoral Commission is to ensure that the election is incident-free and peaceful because of the history of past incidents in Akwatia. No one should be afraid to come out and vote. Do not be intimidated at all,” he emphasised.
In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons, confiscating nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.
The firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun.
This was announced in a statement shared on their official Facebook page earlier today. They revealed that “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process”.
The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle being driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia.
Following a search, of the vehicle, they found a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks.
Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license. He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification.
Also, the statement continued that another operation led to the discovery of 15 live cartridges from another suspect, Joshua Amenuku. A latter search at his residence led to the discovery of a gun and more live catridges.
“In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one ADLER TULPA pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges” the police added.
They also revealed that “later that evening, Police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pick-up at the Boadua Livingstone snap check point and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu, and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after four live BB cartridges were retrieved from the vehicle.
“Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations,” the statement said.
The police continued that “Four live BB cartridges were retrieved from the vehicle. Preliminary checks linked the ammunition to their employer, identified as Mohammed, owner of the vehicle. Police are pursuing him for questioning while the two suspects remain in custody.
In another operation on Friday, August 23, “Police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap check point again arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph, after retrieving one (1) ADLER TULPAR pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm”.
On the same day, the police “officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua, intercepted a Toyota Tundra pick-up with registration no WR 5535-13 from the Asamankese direction towards Boadua. A search conducted in the Tundra pick up revealed the three pump-action guns, including (1) Pardus pump-action gun, one (1) Hulglu Atroe pump-action and one (1) other pump-action gun. Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the pump-action guns and stated that the third pump-action gun belongs to his chief. Meanwhile, suspect Stephen Nkansah has been arrested and detained for investigation”.
Following such successful operations, the Police assured the public and all other stakeholders that, it will intensify operations to ensure the sanity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the elections.
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has noted that his outfit will stay alert and avert any form of misconduct and electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election slated for Tuesday, September 2.
Engaging the media, the IGP noted that his officers are up to the task.
“We want to assure Ghanaians that the police is ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia. We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation and then our eyes are red for Akwatia and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.
IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno cautioned the political parties participating in the by-election against marching men to the polling stations to distrupt the electoral process.
“No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he explained.
has noted that individuals who attempt to cause any form of violence during the Akwatia by-election will be quickly whisked away by police personnel to face the full rigor of the law.
According to the police, a mobile prison will be set up to detain suspects. The IGP made this information known to the media during the final day of a five-day intensive training at the High Risk Operations Training Centre (HROT-C) at Akyeremanteng in the Eastern Region.
“There is no fear for Akwatia, this will be one of the best and peaceful elections because we are fully prepared. If you come quietly to vote, we will receive you quietly, if you have any intention of causing trouble, we will not allow you to go free, we will change your location. We will house you in different forms, before your trouble goes far.”
“Under no circumstances will someone come to the polling station to create a problem, and we will allow the person to go free,” the IGP said.
The training included tactical drills such as rappelling, precision shooting, handcuffing, vehicle stop and search, crowd control, and human rights considerations. Over 5,000 police personnel are expected to be deployed to Akwatia for the by-election.
On 12th August 2025, the IGP and his team held a meeting with the Electoral Commission (EC) to discuss the broader roadmap for the polls. The discussions centered on coordination between the Police and the EC to ensure smooth operations before, during, and after the election. The EC also outlined its operational roadmap for the conduct of the by-election.
Similarly, on 13th August 2025, the Police engaged the Institute of Democratic Governance (IDEG) at the National Police Headquarters. At the meeting, IDEG highlighted concerns related to electoral security, transparency, and the role of stakeholders in sustaining public confidence in the process.
Presidential Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has stated that the dismissal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo is an indication that no individual is above the law, as the independence of the Judiciary remains protected through due process.
“The President cannot go and physically purport to be resetting the Judiciary by removing judges. This is a victory for the rule of law,” he said on The Pulse on JoyNews.
President John Dramani Mahama has relieved the embattled Chief Justice Gertrude Tokornoo of her duties with immediate effect today.
A press statement issued by the presidency and signed by the Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, indicated that her dismissal is in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution.
President Mahama, on Tuesday, April 22, suspended the Chief Justice after a prima facie case was established, following separate petitions calling for her removal.
However, the new development comes shortly after President John Dramani Mahama officially received recommendations from the committee probing petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, today, Monday, September 1.
The presidency justified its decision to permanently remove the Chief Justice was based on the findings from the five-member committee Article 146 Committee of Inquiry.
According to the statement, the Committee found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal from office.
“President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution, removed the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo, from office with immediate effect.
“This follows receipt of the report of the Committee constituted under Article 146(6) to inquire into a petition submitted by a Ghanaian citizen, Mr Daniel Ofori. After considering the petition and the evidence, the Committee found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal from office.
“Under Article 146(9), the President is required to act in accordance with the committee’s recommendation,” parts of the statement read.
The committee chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.
In July, an application for review regarding an ‘abuse of court processes’ by the embattled Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, was dismissed by the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court.
The court presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, revealed that several claims, such as illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of adversarial proceedings, were already before the Supreme Court.
Justice Amoako argued that relitigating these issues would result in duplication of litigation and abuse of court processes. As such, such claims were dismissed.
The judge also dismissed reliefs such as an order of certiorari to quash the committee’s proceedings and nullify its sittings on the basis that the Chief Justice did not receive a fair hearing, on jurisdictional grounds.
The judicial review application filed on June 9 this year sought nine reliefs, which included a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to probe her removal from office had acted unlawfully.
She wanted the court to prevent the committee from proceeding with its work without providing her with authenticated copies of the petitions seeking her removal and the subsequent responses.
The Chief Justice notes that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.
As the proceedings of the Article 146 committee are to be held in-camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.
In response, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking compensation worth $10 million over her suspension from office by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.
This forms part of the 10 reliefs being requested. The Chief Justice’s recent suit follows several unsuccessful cases at the Supreme Court this year after her suspension.
The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The measures are;“That the Republic of Ghana suspend the disciplinary/ removal from office as Chief Justice process against the Applicant, pending the hearing and determination of the complaint on the merits.”
“That Ghana refrains from taking any other measures that may harm the rights claimed by the Applicant and /or aggravate or extend the dispute submitted to the Court, or compromise the implementation of any decision that the Court may render.”
“Given the urgency of the situation, the Applicant respectfully requests the Court to hold a hearing on this request as soon as possible, and that the President of the Court ask Ghana to act in order to allow any order that the Court may issue on the Request for Assignment of Precautionary Measures to have its appropriate effect.”
The other reliefs are as follows;“A declaration that the panel instituted by the Respondent (Ghana) to investigate and determine the allegations of misconduct against the Applicant was not constituted to guarantee its independence and impartiality and as such has violated the Applicant’s human right to fair hearing guaranteed by Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025, constitutes a violation of her human right to fair equitable and satisfactory conditions guaranteed by Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025 has exposed her to public ridicule and odium locally and internationally and the said act constitutes a violation of her human right to dignity guaranteed by Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“A declaration that by subjecting the Applicant to an illegal and unfair investigation and trial since April 2025, the Respondent has inflicted injuries on her professional standing and image, thereby ‘exposing her and her family to immeasurable public ridicule.”
“An order to the Respondent Republic to act immediately to prescribe the rule of procedure to govern the investigation of allegations of misconduct against the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in conformity with the right to fair hearing guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
“An order directing the Respondent to immediately lift the suspension and restore the Applicant to full office until the conclusion of fair constitutional proceedings.”
“An order restraining the Respondent from continuing with the purported inquiry for the removal of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in its current form, until it conforms to fair hearing guarantees.”
“An award of USD 10 million as compensation for moral and reputational damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of her illegal suspension and unfair investigation, and lastly, “Any other relief(s) as the Honourable Court deems just.”
The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The applicant has also requested the ECOWAS Court to assign four precautionary measures to the country.Meanwhile, the government’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted claims made by Justice Torkornoo, noting that the Chief Justice’s suspension aligns with the constitution.
On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President John Dramani 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 also, the constitutional duties incumbent upon them.
“And afford the Chief justice due and fair process in the investigation and determination of the disciplinary matters brought against her, including but not limited to full and transparent access to that process by her legal representatives,” the group demanded in a joint statement issued on August 14.
Additionally, the group asked the government for a proper and impartial investigation of the disciplinary charges against her, with her lawyers given full and transparent access to the proceedings.
Also both groups, demanded the establishment of transparent procedural rules to guide the disciplinary process, including a definite timeframe within which the investigative committee must conclude its work and communicate its decision.
In response, the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine emphasised that his outfit can only intervene after the committee concludes its work and submits a report to President John Dramani Mahama.“The suspension will, therefore, remain in effect until the inquiry committee completes its work and submits its report, to which His Excellency, the President will adhere,” he said.
Television personality Nana Aba Anamoah has revealed that she does not set resolutions for her life, as it’s done by many at the beginning of each year.
Her comment came as a response to the question of whether she was able to achieve a lot the previous year.
She responded by stating, “Well, I don’t set targets for myself. You know every day is a beautiful day, and I just face the day as it happens. Yes, that is how I deal with my life. I know what I want to achieve in my life. I don’t do yearly targets because then, I end up disappointing myself for not meeting them. But I just want to be a good person. I want to be able to give back to people. I want to be able to be better than I was the previous year or the previous day. And so I don’t really set targets for myself, she told radio host, Nana Romeo on Accra FM.
Despite Nana Aba Anamoah’s stance, she does not oppose those who make resolutions and set targets for themselves in any way.
“But for me I don’t do that.I just know that at the end of the year, I want to look back and say to myself that I did good,” She added.
She has also denied claims by some Ghanaians that she is rude. During a conversation on Joy Prime on February 20, 2025, she clarified that she is not rude, as some people think.
She explained that many Ghanaians confuse confidence with rudeness. Nana Aba Anamoah also mentioned that she is not affected by such negative remarks about her.
“I hear that all the time, and I don’t apologise for it. I don’t render any apologies for it. I don’t know why anybody would say I am rude because I just like to tell things as they are.”
“In many ways, most of the time, I am polite. But my politeness is sometimes hidden sarcastically. I am just a very confident person, but I can be rude when I want to be,” she said.
When asked about her recent criticism of the former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey, she stood by her words and insisted that the former deputy minister failed woefully during his tenure in office.
She explained that the creative arts industry expected much from him because he was once a creative.
“I felt his comments were unnecessary. He has been in the media before, and he didn’t decide to approach the show. It was my disappointment in him because I felt that, for someone who has been in the creative arts industry before, I expected better from him,” she added.
President John Dramani Mahama has secured a notable $200 million investment from the Olam Group, a leading global food and agribusiness company, to fund several key projects in Ghana, including a pasta production plant scheduled to open in 2026.
The investment, announced by the company’s Co-founder and Group CEO, Mr. Sunny Verghese, will be rolled out over six years. This major capital injection, secured during President Mahama’s state visit to Singapore, will also support the development of feed processing facilities for poultry and aquaculture.
According to Mr. Verghese, these initiatives will help stabilize the Ghanaian cedi by reducing the country’s dependence on imports.
President Mahama expressed the government’s full support for the projects, assuring the Olam Group that his administration will work closely with the company to provide the necessary incentives and assistance to ensure their successful completion.
Durum wheat semolina or flour, water, and optional additives such as eggs or vegetable puree are among the raw materials needed for pasta production. While a few countries, such as Ethiopia, are able to cultivate wheat suitable for pasta, most African nations continue to rely heavily on imports. Projections indicate that pasta imports across the continent could reach $64 million by 2026. Expanding local production would therefore reduce this dependence, cut transport costs, and make prices more competitive.
A publication on the National Library of Medicine website notes that “Ethiopia is the second largest producer of wheat in Africa (next to Egypt) and produces 5.5 Mt of wheat, which is equivalent to 21.7% of wheat produced and 18.3% of wheat area harvested in Africa.”
In 2024, Olam Agri, a global player in food and agribusiness, began construction of a modern pasta production facility at its wheat milling factory in Kpone, near Tema, in the Greater Accra Region.
The groundbreaking ceremony drew several dignitaries, including former Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, Hon. Michael Okyere Baafi, then-Deputy Minister for Transport, Honourable Frederick Obeng Adom, and traditional leaders of the Kpone municipality.
In attendance were past Chief Executives and representatives from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the Ghana Chamber of Commerce, as well as key institutions such as the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana National Fire Service, and the Ghana Water Company.
Speaking through his Deputy, the former Minister for Trade and Industry, K. T. Hammond, highlighted Ghana’s reliance on pasta imports from countries such as Turkey, Italy, China, and South Africa despite pasta’s growing popularity in local homes.
“I am therefore happy to note that Olam Agri as a business is taking advantage of this opportunity to establish this state-of-the-art pasta plant reflecting the company’s commitment to transforming Ghana’s food industry. This facility is expected to meet the growing demand for pasta locally, supporting the government’s import substitution and job creation agenda,” K. T. Hammond said.
He further emphasized the role of the private sector in Ghana’s industrialisation agenda, commending Olam Agri for setting standards in agribusiness, from flour production to support for local rice farmers. He noted that the company’s consistency in quality is evident in the success of household brands such as Mama Gold and Royal Feast.
Country Head of Olam Agri in Ghana, Baibhav Biswas, said the company’s 30 years of operations in Ghana have been marked by significant investments in infrastructure and human resource development.
“Our 30 years’ presence in Ghana has been characterised by significant investments in infrastructure and human resources development. This facility is a testament to our dedication to the country and our effort to contribute positively towards its economic development and food security. This new facility aligns with Olam Agri’s broader strategy of strengthening its position in the African food market,” he said.
Mr. Biswas expressed appreciation to stakeholders for supporting Olam Agri’s activities and for fostering a business-friendly environment.
“As our Grains business continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to providing quality flour products to Ghanaians. Our commitment to community development and sustainability has solidified our position as a trusted partner in the region’s food industry,” he added.
The former Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Ms. Julia Esiam, congratulated Olam Agri on behalf of the Commission and assured the company of GRA’s continued collaboration.
“The groundbreaking of this new facility will open doors to further opportunities for growth and development. This sets the stage for future achievement, innovation, and progress,” Ms. Esiam said.
Ghanaian TikTok personality and influencer, Osanju Frimpong Elvis, is dead.
Reports have revealed that the social media star passed away on Sunday, 31st August, 2025.
Hours before his passing, Osanju had posted a video of him watching Barcelona’s 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano in the Spanish La Liga hours before his death.
He appeared healthy in the video despite his sad countenance due to the Barcelona results
Thus, the sudden news of his death has left several fans shocked and the online community, especially coming shortly after his last post.
It is not immediately known the cause of his death, however, Osanju had previously shared in an interview that he was battling blood cancer.
“My blood is clotting, and I’m yet to figure out what is causing this. I’m running some tests, the quality clotting profile test. I hope everything turns out great,” he had said in one of his interviews.
He went on to reveal that he had to sell some of his properties for medical care due to the high cost of treatment.
“It got to a point where the treatment had become expensive, and I had to sell my personal belongings to pay for my medical bills. Through TikTok, I met some kind people who donated money to help me buy my medicines,” he said.
In 2023, Ghanaian social media sensation Ahuofe died in Kumasi, according to reports that circulated on social media.
How Ahuofe passed away is unknown but reports surfaced online on Thursday, March 30, 2023.
While YEN.com.gh’s calls to independently verify the reports did not go through, a popular Kumasi-based rapper, Jay Bhad of Asakaa Boys fame, gave credence to the reports.
In a tweet, Jay Bhad shared a video of Ahuofe jamming to one of his songs with a caption about how life is short.
“Life too short rest well ahoufe U gonna be miss 4ever,” he said.
Later, TV3 posted one of the old videos Ahuofe as a tribute to him.
Who is Ahuofe, the TikTok sensation?
Ahuofe, who is based at Oforikrom in Kumasi, burst onto the stage as a TikToker some years ago and got many loving him.
His videos on the app showed him mimicking the personality of the late American rapper Tupac Amaru Shakur. He often dressed and acted like a ‘gangster’.
Within his relatively short time on the app, Ahuofe was able to garner an impressive 3.9 million followers and amass over a whopping 39.8 million views on his 217 videos.
Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kojo Fosu, is among famous entertainment figures who have passed away.
A statement by the counsel for the Fosu family confirmed that the music veteran died 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 respectfully requested privacy as they navigated their grief.
Profile of the late veteran musician
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.
Government will today, Monday, September 1, commence a five-day orientation programme in Accra for newly appointed envoys as part of efforts to strengthen Ghana’s diplomatic engagements and foreign policy delivery.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and expected to end on Friday, September 5, is under the theme “Harnessing the Dividends of Diplomacy for Ghana’s Reset Agenda.”
It aims to build the capacity of Ghana’s representatives abroad by equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively discharge their duties. President John Dramani Mahama will officially open the conference and launch Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) designed to guide the work of Heads of Mission.
According to the Ministry, the orientation will provide briefings on key areas of national interest to prepare envoys to deliver on Ghana’s foreign policy objectives aimed at improving the livelihoods of citizens.
The programme will also feature special sessions with experts from key national institutions to deepen the understanding of envoys and enhance knowledge-sharing relevant to their mandates. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering quality public service and ensuring that Ghana’s diplomatic representatives are well-positioned to advance the country’s reset agenda.
Mahama to launch Ghana’s first KPI framework for diplomats
President John Dramani Mahama is also set to launch Ghana’s first-ever KPIs for diplomats and ambassadors, tasking them to deliver tangible outcomes that attract investment and generate employment overseas, starting September 1, 2025.
This was announced by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, while speaking at the Ghana Presidential Investment Forum held in Yokohama, Japan, on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
“On the first of September, the President will be launching the first of its kind, a novel Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for all Ambassadors and diplomats from the Republic of Ghana. This has never happened in our history. And when you peruse that document, you will see that honorary diplomacy is at the heart of it,” he said.
Mr. Ablakwa further explained that the President is keen on ensuring Ghana’s diplomacy yields concrete results. “The President wants our diplomacy to make an impact. Our diplomacy must lead to the improvement in the lives of the people. Our diplomacy must promote investment. And diplomacy must create a safe haven for all of those who invest in our country, and that is what the Foreign Ministry has been charged to do,” he stressed.
List of newly appointed envoys
Twenty-three individuals have been appointed as ambassadors, high commissioners, and consul-generals following their nomination by President Mahama.
Among the first fifteen appointees 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 remaining eight appointees are Alhaji Abdul-Rahman Harruna Attah, the Ambassador to the Republic of Namibia; Kojo Choi, Ambassador to the Republic of South Korea; Dr. Kwame Ampofo, who will represent Ghana in Hungary; Mona Helen Kabuki Quartey, who will serve as Ambassador to the Italian Republic; Magnus Kofi Amoatey, who has been appointed as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Kenneth Akibate, who is Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Said Sinare, who is Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Paul Evans Aidoo, who will head Ghana’s mission in the Republic of Kenya.
4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar set for September 5
In an unrelated development, the 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar is slated to commence on September 5 at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). The three-day event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily.
Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the theme “Championing Economic Diplomacy: Connecting Producers, Markets, and Opportunities,” the bazaar seeks to promote Ghanaian products and services globally through economic diplomacy. It will also connect Ghanaian producers with consumers, investors, diplomats, and foreign buyers.
The event is being organized in partnership with institutions such as the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), Ghana Chamber of Commerce, Ghana Enterprises Agency, and the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
Sponsors include Green Coast, GRA, and Zonda, among others. The official media partners are The Multimedia Group and SP Agency. For inquiries, interested persons may contact 0538 062 264 or 0209 249 932, or email bazaar@mfa.gov.gh.
Earlier this month, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched the 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar in Accra. At the launch, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stated that the bazaar seeks to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and increase the country’s export of non-traditional goods.
“We are not merely talking about Made-in-Ghana; we are institutionalising it through bold reforms and strategic action,” he said, noting that the initiative forms part of President Mahama’s vision to make Ghanaian businesses competitive on the international market and drive national self-reliance.
President John Mahama has initiated steps to restore peace in the Sawla-Bole area of the Savannah Region following renewed tensions between the Gonja and Brifor communities.
Upon his return from a state visit to Singapore, the President received a full briefing from the National Security Coordinator and the Minister for the Interior on the latest developments in the conflict.
While abroad, Mr. Mahama held a telephone conversation with the King of Gonja, Yagbonwura Jira Bikunuto Jewu Soale I, during which they discussed measures to end the clashes and foster lasting peace in the area.
As part of efforts to de-escalate the situation, the President has dispatched a government delegation led by the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohamed-Mubarak, to engage the Yagbonwura and other key stakeholders.
Meanwhile, security has been reinforced with the deployment of additional police and military personnel to the conflict zone. President Mahama has urged all parties to support the peace initiatives being rolled out, stressing the importance of dialogue in resolving outstanding disputes.
He has further directed the government delegation to work closely with the Regional Security Council, traditional authorities, and community leaders to ensure calm is restored and law and order upheld.
Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has assured the Overlord of Gonja, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, that the government will take every necessary step to restore peace in the Sawla-Bole area.
“We have taken note of all the concerns, and we have also assured him that we will do everything humanly possible to ensure that peace will be restored. But we need his cooperation and the cooperation of all others. Surely, what talking can solve, dance cannot solve,” he stated.
“Surely, what talking can solve, dance cannot solve, so we are hoping that after all the lengthy discussion and the conclusion that we have come to, we will go and implement our part, we are hopeful that they will also listen to us and also adhere to whatever agreement that we’ve had,” he noted.
Less than a week ago, the sector minister imposed a curfew on the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba township and its surrounding communities in the Savannah Region. The curfew runs from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., effective Wednesday, August 27, 2025, until further notice. This measure was taken in response to the recent outbreak of conflict in the area.
In addition to the curfew, there is a total ban on the possession of firearms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons. Any individual found with such items will be arrested and prosecuted. Furthermore, no two or more persons are permitted to ride on motorbikes throughout the day, and the wearing of war regalia has also been prohibited.
Last year, intense security measures were implemented in the Bole and Sawla districts of the Savannah Region due to the chieftaincy dispute between the Bolewura and the Jahori clan. This heightened security response followed a ruling by the Tamale High Court concerning the dispute between the Jahori and Bolewura factions.
In response to the court ruling, youths from Bole set fire to houses belonging to members of the Jahori community residing in both Bole and Sawla districts. The devastating fires resulted in significant property losses for the affected individuals, leaving many tenants in despair and tears. In recent years, the country has witnessed a number of casualties and destruction of property arising from chieftaincy disputes.
The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has also reviewed the earlier curfew hours imposed on Bawku and Nalerigu townships following recent attacks. The previous curfew, which ran from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., has been revised to 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. The minister took this decision after receiving advice from the National Security Council.
The Bawku Municipality in the Upper East Region and the East Mamprusi Municipality in the North East Region are affected by the new directive. The curfew has created an environment conducive for the evacuation of students from educational institutions in the affected areas, some of whom had unfortunately been targeted during the conflict.
In a statement issued on July 27, the government announced that it is stepping up its approach from peacekeeping to peace enforcement in Bawku and other affected areas due to the recent escalation of violence, which threatens to derail the peacebuilding process.
These heightened tensions and conflicts have had an impact on the country’s global peace ranking. Ghana has been ranked 61st out of 163 countries in the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI), marking a continued decline in its standing on peacefulness. The latest ranking follows a downward trajectory from 55th in 2024, 51st in 2023, and 40th in 2022.
Despite the decline, Ghana still ranks ahead of several of its West African neighbors, including Senegal (69th), Liberia (70th), and Nigeria (148th).
The Global Peace Index, compiled annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), measures the peacefulness of nations based on 23 indicators across three broad domains: societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and militarisation.
Nana Yaw Boakye popularly known as MoG Music, a Gospel Musician, has featured Naa Mercy Sinclear-Mrs Mercy Sinclear, also a Gospel Minstrel, in his single latest titled “Your name is Jesus.”
The single, which is at slow pace ends up calling on the people all over the world to give their lives to Jesus if they have not done so.
The song, by MoG Music is a heartfelt declaration of the unmatched power and authority in the name of Jesus.
Its aim is to reach believers, unbelievers and Gospel lovers globally with a sound that refreshes the soul and stirs worship.
MoG, is a songwriter and Pastor who won the male vocalist of 2020 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards and has since featured Ron Kenoly, Denzel Prempeh, Danny Nartey, Nii Okai, Joe Mette and Ohemaa Mercy.
Naa Mercy Sinclear Profile
Naa Mercy Sinclear is a song minister with a deep passion to be a voice that heralds the lost to God and deepens intimacy with Him through music, prayer and sound teaching.
She is the set woman of Kabod-Shammah Ministries which focuses on restoring the tabernacle of David, nurturing women to discover their God given mandate, bringing children to the saving knowledge of Christ and raising a people of prayer.
She has released two albums with a unique signature that spurs the listener into intimate worship and prayer.
Naa Mercy is married to Rev. Christian Sinclear and they are blessed with 3 children (and counting).
Ghanaian gospel musician Celestine Donkor has made headlines after releasing artwork for her new song featuring Diana Hamilton.
This is a deliberate effort to promote her local language and educate her fans on the basic words for easy conversation.
The award-winning singer, famous for ministering and performing in her local dialect, Ewe, has set the internet ablaze with the title of her new song.
Celestine Donkor and Diana Hamilton looked perfect in matching two-piece outfits. The style influencers wore white long-sleeve shirts and matching tailored-to-fit pants that highlighted their curves.
The famous gospel stars looked effortlessly chic in coloured frontal lace hairstyles and heavy makeup to complement their looks.
Celestine Donkor shared the post on Instagram with this caption:
“THOU SHALL NOT MISS THE CAPTIONS: It’s a great pleasure and honour to join Grace with my sis @dianaantwihamilton as we declare the praises of our “AKORFALA-COMFORTER” Dropping on 1st April sharp!.”
The gospel artist described the process as a beautiful journey.
“I am even more excited about the unity of spirit we both had right from the beginning of the idea of doing this song with her, to how the song message simply resonated with her, to the beautiful studio time, to the long, stressful video shoot at different locations with entire team and crew.
“My favourite part was last night, when I texted Diana on WhatsApp, I was like “sis, the flyer is going out 2moro o, let’s bear up in prayer” and she said ” Trusting God to use this song to bless the world” then I replied “that is my heart’s cry”.”
“#AKORFALA (COMFORTER) is indeed here to bless! And I know our God will do more than we prayed for. Kindly pray with us 🙏.”
Highlife musician, Kwabena Kwabena, has shared some memories of the late Daddy Lumba that will never be erased from his memory.
He told the media on August 30, during the one-week celebration of the late “Biribi Gye Gye Wo” hitmaker, that “My fondest moments will always be how warm he was whenever I visited him. We shared truly wonderful times, full of advice, encouragement, and lessons. Everything that makes a person unique was so evident in his style and the way he carried himself. These are beautiful memories that will always stay with me.”
The one-week observation of Legendary Ghanaian musician Daddy Lumba was held at Independence Square yesterday, August 30, 2025.
Fans of the musician, including colleagues, politicians, industry stakeholders, and other dignitaries, were in attendance to express support to the bereaved artist’s family.
Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kojo Fosu, has passed away.
A statement by the counsel for the Fosu family confirmed that the music veteran passed on today, 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.
Profile of the late veteran musician
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.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) William Agyapong, has announced that new initiatives are being considered to enhance the welfare of both serving and retired personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
Addressing 1995/96 GAF retirees at Burma Hall on Friday, August 29, during a deliberation on life after active service, the Chief of Defence Staff noted that a proposed mutual health insurance scheme to ease medical expenses and the establishment of a child endowment fund to support dependents of personnel who die in the line of duty are under consideration.
He explained that these initiatives have become necessary “given the inadequacy of the current dependent pension.” For him, the engagement was an opportunity to clear doubts and respond to pressing issues concerning retirees. He stressed that the Military High Command bears the responsibility of ensuring that all personnel who have served receive their rightful entitlements, particularly emoluments and benefits.
The Chief of Defence Staff concluded by congratulating the 1995/96 retirees for their loyal service to the Colours and for honourably retiring after three decades of dedicated duty.
Last month, President John Dramani Mahama announced the creation of a dedicated support fund for the children of the eight victims who died in the military helicopter crash of August 6. Three of the deceased were security personnel of the Ghana Air Force: Wing Commander Peter Baafemi Anala, Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Flight Sergeant Mensah Addo Ernest.
The welfare of gallant security personnel who put their lives on the line to protect citizens remains one of the government’s priorities. The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has committed to the welfare of Fire Service personnel by announcing measures to improve their conditions, including support as they approach retirement.
He announced a GH₵100,000.00 insurance package for personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) who sustain permanent injuries in the line of duty. “Under the scheme, GH₵50,000.00 will be paid to firefighters sustaining non-permanent injuries in the line of duty. GH₵100,000.00 will be awarded in cases of permanent disability in the line of duty. GH₵100,000.00 will be given in the event of a firefighter’s death on active duty. Even natural deaths while in service will attract a benefit of GH₵50,000.00,” he announced at a passing-out ceremony of 1,658 recruits on June 20.
He clarified that in the case of death in the line of duty, the family of the deceased officer will receive GH₵100,000.00. According to Honourable Muntaka, the introduction of this new insurance package for all GNFS personnel is aimed at boosting morale and ensuring financial security for officers injured or killed in their line of duty.
“This is just the beginning,” the Minister emphasized. “We are committed to improving welfare packages, logistics support, and working conditions for our gallant fire officers, whose sacrifices often go unnoticed,” he added.
The Honourable Minister also used the occasion to highlight critical challenges facing the Service, including the persistent issue of prank calls to emergency lines. He warned that such misuse of resources delays real-life interventions and can cost lives. He urged the public, especially the youth, to treat emergency numbers with seriousness and responsibility.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) stands stronger than ever, ready to meet the demands of a fast-changing world. With enhanced training, improved welfare support, and growing public awareness, Ghana’s firefighting force is not only growing in number but also in strength, determination, and readiness to serve the nation.
In June this year, the late Minister for Defence, Dr Omane Boamah, who was one of the eight individuals that perished in the unfortunate helicopter crash, provided clarification regarding the release of 12 Major Generals from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). On Wednesday, June 11, the sector minister appeared before Parliament to answer a question he deemed “wrong” from the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. Ntim Fordjour.
According to Dr Boamah, he felt compelled to provide clarification since such a question could “mislead the public.” Presenting the facts to Parliament, the Defence Minister explained that eight Major Generals (2-Star) had reached the point of commencing their terminal leave pending compulsory retirement.
Additionally, four Major Generals (2-Star), aged between 60 and 62 years, are to be released prior to their mandatory retirement age of 63, in accordance with GAF regulations and precedence. Meanwhile, Major General Irvin Nii-Ayittey Aryeetey, who is among the eight being released, is being sponsored in the rank of Lieutenant General to compete for the high office of Military Adviser, Office of Military Affairs of the Department of Peace Operations at the Assistant Secretary General level at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, U.S.A.
Altogether, 12 Major Generals—eight due for terminal leave prior to compulsory retirement—will be released from the Service sometime between December 2025 and January 2026. The Defence Minister also accounted for the whereabouts of three Major Generals who are not on terminal leave pending compulsory retirement. Major General Robert Affram is currently serving as Deputy Force Commander with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Major General Anita Asmah is currently serving as Force Commander with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). On the other hand, Air Vice Marshal Felix Asante has been appointed as Acting President of the National Defence University (NDU) in Ghana.
With regard to precedence, Dr Boamah revealed that this practice occurred under the administrations of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, former President John Agyekum Kufuor, the late former President John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, and former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has revealed a downturn in Ghana’s unemployment rate, which currently stands at 13.1% as of the end of 2024.
Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, in a video shared on the Service’s Facebook page last Friday, said, “The national unemployment rate declined from 13.3% in quarter three of 2024 to 13.1% in quarter four.”
The figures are captured in the latest Quarterly Labour Statistics Report of the Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey (AHIES), which was released on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
According to the report, 409,000 new jobs were created in the last quarter of 2024. Despite this growth, the Ghana Statistical Service has expressed concern about the expansion of the informal sector compared to the formal sector.
“Employment is growing, but too many jobs remain informal and insecure. The disparities, especially among young people, are still stark,” Dr. Iddrisu stressed.
The report also acknowledged that youth unemployment remains a pressing concern, with 32% of those aged 15–24 jobless in 2024, 22.5% in the 15–35 bracket, and young people making up seven out of ten unemployed Ghanaians.
To tackle the challenge, Dr. Iddrisu proposed strengthening apprenticeship and placement schemes, tailoring TVET reforms to labour market demands, and widening access to affordable credit for small enterprises. He further appealed to the private sector to create structured internships and entry-level jobs and encouraged development partners to channel investments into rural employment and scalable youth-focused initiatives.
“Addressing youth and long-term unemployment, bridging regional disparities, and formalising informal work must remain urgent national priorities,” he added.
Unemployment and youth unemployment are among the major issues the incumbent government led by President John Dramani Mahama seeks to address to aid the recovery of the Ghanaian economy.
In light of this, the government has introduced several initiatives, including the Adwumawura Programme, to fight youth unemployment and boost entrepreneurship. President John Dramani Mahama, on Monday, April 28, launched the programme at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi.
The Adwumawura Programme, according to its design, will “create, mentor, and support at least 10,000 businesses annually,” focusing specifically on young people aged 18 to 35. Participants will benefit from skills training, mentorship, start-up capital, and equipment to help them build sustainable businesses.
During his address, President Mahama described youth unemployment as “one of Ghana’s most pressing challenges” and reiterated his administration’s commitment “to create decent and sustainable jobs for young people,” aligning with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s vision of economic growth and innovation.
Funding for the initiative has been secured through a GH₵100 million provision in the 2025 Budget Statement, delivered by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson. To complement Adwumawura, the government has also implemented the National Apprenticeship Programme, which provides free technical and vocational training opportunities for the youth.
More than 150,000 Ghanaians have enrolled in the National Apprenticeship Programme, organised by the National Youth Authority (NYA). The NYA had initially projected 10,000 participants for the first phase of the initiative.
Launched on March 19, the National Apprenticeship Programme is managed by the NYA and focuses on delivering hands-on vocational and technical training. It also supports individuals recovering from substance abuse and those affected by illegal mining activities, offering them a renewed path toward sustainable livelihoods.
In addition, Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Ampem Nyarko has highlighted the government’s plan to leverage Ghana’s emerging pharmaceutical industry to boost employment and economic development.
“With the establishment of a pharmaceutical hub in Ghana, supported by GAVI, we aim to create employment opportunities and add value to our local resources—a crucial step for the Ghanaian economy,” he noted.
Speaking during a courtesy call by Dr. Sania Nishtar, Chief Executive Officer of the Global Alliance for Vaccine Initiatives (GAVI), in May this year, the Deputy Minister stated that the creation of a pharmaceutical hub is a key component of Ghana’s long-term health and industrial strategy.
To augment local efforts to address the unemployment situation in the country, the government of Ghana is also working to export a considerable portion of Ghana’s labour force.
As such, the Ministry of Labour, Jobs & Employment, in partnership with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and GIZ Ghana, launched the Work Abroad Programme in May. The programme is structured to equip Ghanaian youth with the essential skills, guidance, and support needed to secure overseas employment.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Health, Honourable Mintah Akandoh, has revealed that the government is engaging countries interested in importing Ghanaian health workers. To this end, a short-term intensive course is being designed to elevate the average health personnel to become experts.
Engaging the media, the Health Minister explained that the collaboration has become necessary due to the high demand for health experts by other international countries in need of Ghanaian health workers.
According to Honourable Mintah Akandoh, the exportation of health workers—what he refers to as the “managed migration” approach—forms part of the two measures being put in place by the government to reduce the number of unemployed health personnel in the country.
He remarked: “Ghana government is going to engage other countries to export health workers. About 13 countries have responded, and we are now agreeing on our MoUs. But there is a challenge; the challenge is that if you look at the requests from the various countries and even our own (African) countries, the request is higher when it comes to specialists than general nurses.”
“We cannot decide to give them all our specialists. What we are doing at the moment is that we are engaging them, looking at how we can bring lots of specialists. Instead of taking you probably about 2 years to become a specialist, we are engaging the institutions to come up with a crash programme, not more than six (6) months. It does not mean that we are going to compromise on the quality.
“It is going to be very intensive. For example, if you were going to do two contact hours a day, you are going to do four or five. We use that approach to solve a particular problem so if we run it for about two to three times and we think the problem has been solved, we return to the former system,” he further explained.
According to the Minister for Health, the country has not less than 70,000 health professionals sitting at home, unemployed. One of the two approaches to reduce the number of unemployed health workers involves the government increasing its recruitment.
“In the 2026 budget, we are looking at the government giving us some clearance to be able to recruit more, and they will spread it across the pharmacists and nurses so that every cadre will be able to get that kind of equitable distribution of recruitment,” Honourable Mintah Akandoh said.
Veteran Ghanaian musician Gyedu-Blay Ambolley has stated that the growing reliance on technology in the studio is diminishing the originality, artistic discipline, and creativity of modern musicians.
Speaking on Joy Prime’s Prime Time show on Wednesday night, the highlife pioneer criticized the wave of current music that prioritizes convenience over depth.
“It makes your music ‘sharp sharp’; it doesn’t last.” The term “sharp sharp,” he explained, refers to the fast-food style of music production that lacks soul, substance, and staying power.
For him, musicians must be patient to learn how to play instruments, study music theory, and perform live to foster originality, considering that music is a craft that requires discipline, mentorship, and cultural grounding.
Sharing his experience with younger artistes, he explained that, “When they send the music, I do my part, but after that, they don’t come back for me to listen to the entire song. Before I know it, it’s on air.”
He describes the experience as evidence of how impersonal and fragmented music-making has become.
Ambolley’s remarks come amid a wider conversation about the impact of AI, beat-generating software, and auto-tune on the integrity of music, both in Ghana and globally. For him, the issue isn’t with technology itself, but with how it’s being used. He urged young artists to embrace technology as a tool, not a replacement for skill, practice, and cultural connection.
Meanwhile, renowned Ghanaian Highlife musician, Amandzeba Nat Brew, discussed last year the challenges faced by Ghanaian music in breaking through international markets.
In an interview with Hitz FM on September 3, 2024, he reflected on a time when Ghanaian musicians were highly influential in Nigeria and Central Africa.Amandzeba observed that the current trend sees Ghanaian artists mimicking Nigerian styles rather than celebrating their own unique Ghanaian heritage.
“About three or four decades ago, eastern Nigeria was full of Ghanaian musicians. So you ask yourself, how were they able to make inroads across West Africa? And it even goes all the way up to Central Africa. And so I’m asking myself if Joe Mensah was so huge in Nigeria.
“Why is the situation now the reverse? The reason is that we are trying to sing like the Nigerians. The Nigerians accepted us because we came as Ghanaians. Now it’s the opposite,” he said.
He questioned why Ghanaian musicians, who once dominated the music scene in Nigeria, are now struggling to gain similar traction.He used the example of Magic System’s hit “Amoulanga” to illustrate his point, arguing that music’s global appeal isn’t tied to language.
Instead, it’s about the music’s simplicity and its ability to connect with listeners. He noted that the catchy nature of a song can overcome any language barriers, as seen with “Amoulanga,” whose meaning remains a mystery but still resonates widely.
“Language is not a barrier. Take for example. Magic System did a song called Amoulanga. What’s the meaning of Amoulanga? We don’t know the meaning of Amoulanga and all of us were digging into it. Where is the barrier here?
“You don’t need to look out for some kind of sophisticated arrangement or something. The simplicity of the rhythm or the lyrics can. If it is catchy, you can’t stop it,” he said.
One member of the defunct music group Wutah, Afriyie, real name Frank Osei is also of the view that current crops of musicians are lazy due to the use of technology.
According to him, musicians nowadays have stopped employing voice trainers and coaches to help them train because technology is available to help them out.
“I think technology has made laziness set in so you don’t have people employing voice coaches, voice trainers like we did in the past,” he said during an interview.
In Afriyie’s words, technology has made music production exciting but he is still surprised some musicians cannot produce and write great songs.
“Technology has made music production more exciting and then easier unlike in the past so I’ll say that’s the best part of this era.
“Right now a lot of musicians don’t have time to sit and write great songs unlike before so now people are singing more hooks,” he said.
Citing an example with Kizz Daniel’s ‘cough’ he stated that he just used two words ‘Odo Yewu’ and only added the beat and once they get people jamming to it they are okay to release it for the public.
“Now they pick two words like Odo yewu and just place in more beats there and once you get the people jumping and dancing to it that’s it,” he ended.
The one-week observation of Legendary Ghanaian musician Daddy Lumba was held at Independence Square yesterday, August 30, 2025.
Fans of the musician, including colleagues, politicians, industry stakeholders, and other dignitaries, were in attendance to express support to the bereaved artist’s family.
He was a prominent musician who thrived massively during his era.
Schedule for Daddy Lumba’s final funeral rites will be communicated to the general public today at the ceremony.
Broadcaster MzGee has implied that she is comfortable with having children while unmarried, as she has been divorced for over two years.
MzGee said her declared stance follows the tons of questions and pressure she has received from society about when she would marry again.
On her Gee O’Clock show she stated, “I am happy. And that is enough.” she said.
Adding that, “I will marry again but at my own pace. Please give me peace. This is my baby-making era and I chose to give myself that gift.”
She further narrated her experience with society that constantly projected its unmet expectations of her in terms of marriage and having children.
“It felt like the world was waiting for me to expire. At 38, nobody had come. At 39, nobody came. At 40, still no one. And yet the pressure never stopped,” She said on her Gee O’Clock show.
However, MzGee has chosen to take control of her narrative by conceiving a son in January this year describing the decision as one of gratitude and faith.
“Yes, God is against fornication, we know that” she admitted. “But I also know that God is merciful. He gave me my son, and I will thank Him every day of my life.”
Now, as a mother and a woman who still believes in love, MzGee insists her story is not about defiance but about freedom to live, to choose, and to find joy on her own terms.
Her comments come in the wake of her February 27, 2025, disclosure that she had been separated for three years and officially divorced for two.
She has opened up about her deeply personal experience with motherhood, revealing the emotional and physical challenges she faced during and after childbirth.
“Motherhood is a big deal,” she reflected with a voice thick with emotion. “When you go through it, you understand. If you don’t respect your mother, if you speak to her anyhow—ah, you will regret it.”
The media personality’s journey into motherhood was not easy. While her pregnancy was complicated, it was the postpartum period that truly tested her strength. After giving birth, MzGee’s health took a frightening turn. Her blood pressure remained dangerously high, requiring constant monitoring. The ordeal left her in a vulnerable state, and she found herself praying for her safety.
“I was on the altar. I was praying because, at that point, I became scared for my own life,” she shared on her show, Gee O’clock, recalling the terrifying moments after childbirth.
Despite her health struggles, the exhaustion of caring for her newborn added another layer of difficulty. It was during this period that MzGee leaned heavily on her support system, especially her friend Ann Marie, who stayed by her side to help with the baby.
“I was physically drained, but it was my support network that gave me the strength to push through,” MzGee said, emphasizing the importance of having people who care during tough times.
Her experience has led to a newfound respect for the complexities of motherhood. “When you go through it, you truly understand the strength it takes to be a mother,” she explained. “Motherhood is not just about giving birth; it’s about surviving the emotional, physical, and mental toll it takes on you.”
This profound journey has reshaped MzGee’s perspective, urging a deeper empathy for mothers everywhere and a call for more appreciation of their struggles.
On a separate occasion, MzGee stated that talking too much often gives others the information they need to work against you.
Speaking on her latest Gee O’Clock show, MzGee said it took the intervention of God to identify individuals who were her friends but were working behind the scenes against her with information she disclosed to them.
“I used to talk a lot… telling people I want to do this, I want to be that… but people don’t really care. Some are only listening to mock you or steal your ideas.”
“They know everything about you, yet they’re masterminding your downfall,” she stated.
She has urged individuals who find themselves in competitive circles to be hesitant when it comes to sharing their dreams with colleagues and supposedly close associates.
MzGee has also shared her perspective on life’s challenges and how she navigates them.
She said that life experiences do not always turn out successful, but even in failure, there are always lessons to be learnt.
“I realised that truly, truly, what John Maxwell said in his book. Sometimes you win, sometimes you learn, is actually true,” she said on her Gee O’clock show.
The broadcaster indicated that some books teach real-life lessons, but people often ignore them until those lessons pan out in their own lives.
She now considers failure as an opportunity to correct the wrongs to achieve excellent results in life.
“Sometimes you need to fail so you can revisit your notes, look at where you went wrong, and then come back so hard,” she said.
Commenting on other matters, MzGee opened up about her deeply personal experience with motherhood, revealing the emotional and physical challenges she faced during and after childbirth.
“Motherhood is a big deal,” she reflected with a voice thick with emotion. “When you go through it, you understand. If you don’t respect your mother, if you speak to her anyhow—ah, you will regret it.”
A 24-hour call centre for handling patient complaints across hospitals in the country has been introduced by the Health Minister, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.
The minister made this known at a press briefing in Accra on Thursday, August 21, explaining that the initiative will provide the public with a direct channel to report their displeasure regarding healthcare services. “The best you can do is lodge a complaint. And that brings me to the client service. So this is what we are doing. We have some numbers available where if people feel dissatisfied, you can then call,” he said.
He assured that complaints to the hotline will be managed fairly, but emphasized that this does not automatically mean all complaints will be considered right. “The fact that you have called to lodge a complaint doesn’t mean that you are right. We will look into the matter and then appropriately deal with it,” he stated.
He added that hospitals have been instructed to display the hotline numbers boldly at facilities to make them easily accessible to patients nationwide. “We have communicated directly to all the health facilities in the country, to the Director-General and the teaching hospitals, that they must make these suggestion boxes and numbers conspicuously posted at all health facilities. So it is something I am pursuing aggressively,” he said.
Mr. Akandoh noted that the measure seeks to promote accountability and raise the standard of service delivery in the health sector. Just days earlier, the Health Minister confirmed that the Ridge Hospital incident that saw the assault of health practitioners had led to several arrests by the Ghana Police Service.
“The law has so far dealt with all those who did something wrong, and we are also investigating as a ministry. Anyone who comes to tell you that no arrest has been made in this matter is probably someone who is not ready to contribute to the resolution of this matter,” the Minister told Asempa FM on August 19, without disclosing the names of the suspects.
The arrests stemmed from an incident involving a member of the pressure group Democracy Hub, Mr. Ralph Afful Williams, popularly known as “Fellow Ghanaians.” He reportedly stormed the hospital with about eight men, protesting what he described as delays in treating a critically injured patient.
Hospital management was forced to call in the Ghana Police Service after the situation escalated into the assault of a nurse. Following the incident, several groups and individuals demanded the arrest of Ralph Williams, describing his actions as unlawful.
In response, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest Ralph and his accomplices. The association warned that it would be compelled to “advise itself” if immediate action was not taken.
According to the GRNMA’s General Secretary, Dr. David Tenkorang Twum, the nurse who was attacked sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the hospital. He described the assault as unacceptable and stressed that health workers cannot operate in an unsafe environment.
“If anybody can just walk into a facility, like Ridge Hospital, and throw his weight about and beat like a midwife, and you have other party apparatchiks telling them to egg him on, that is unfortunate. We are not happy at all. Our people are traumatized,” he stated.
He continued, “We are very civilized people. We are professionals. And we are asking the government to arrest the guy immediately and the eight accomplices; we were told there were about 50 guys that day. But those who laid their hands on the lady—there were about eight, including Ralph himself. And therefore, if he’s not arrested within 48 hours, we shall advise ourselves.”
Dr. Tenkorang also referenced Section 119 of Ghana’s Labour Act, which empowers workers to withdraw their services if their health and safety are at risk.
“And we are all guided by law. In that, if you read section 119, subsection 1, it is stated that if you are a worker and you think that your safety is not guaranteed, your life and your health are not guaranteed, and you have every right under the law to remove yourself from that danger. And our people have told us this morning, after interacting with them, that they are not safe. They feel that their safety has been breached,” he said.
The association insists that both Ralph Williams and the eight identified accomplices must be arrested immediately to restore confidence and ensure justice for the victim. Their demand follows the circulation of a viral video showing a violent altercation between some patient relatives and medical staff at the hospital’s emergency department.
The Minority in Parliament has also intensified calls for Ralph’s arrest. In a statement dated Tuesday, August 19, and signed by the Ranking Member on the Health Committee, Dr. Nana Ayew Afriye, the group condemned the actions of Ralph and his team.
They described the conduct as “unlawful, reckless, and deeply inconsiderate,” stressing that hospitals are places of care and confidentiality, not “arenas for political theatrics.” The Minority urged the Ghana Police Service to fully investigate the matter and called on the Health Minister to set up a joint parliamentary inquiry to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The sanctity of our health facilities must be preserved at all times,” the statement concluded, urging political actors to refrain from compromising patient care for partisan ends.
In response, the Ministry of Health has announced measures to beef up security at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital. The Ministry said this will ensure the safety of staff, patients, and the general public, while also addressing any gaps that may have contributed to the reported delay in treatment.
Reiterating its commitment to protecting healthcare workers, the Ministry confirmed that Health Minister Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has already visited the facility to receive firsthand information. He assured hospital management and staff of the Ministry’s full support and protection.
“We call on the public to exercise patience, cooperation, and mutual respect at all times to enable healthcare workers to provide effective and timely care,” the Ministry of Health added in a statement.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education have come under scrutiny following revelations in the 2024 Auditor-General’s report about unearned salaries and responsibility allowances.
According to the report, some head teachers validated the names of deceased staff and collected their salaries, a practice that has raised concerns in Parliament.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has directed the head teachers involved to refund the monies within 30 days.
Ranking Member of the Committee and MP for Komenda Edina Eguafo Abrem, Samuel Atta Mills, expressed outrage over the recurring nature of the malpractice. “Awurade nyankopon,” he exclaimed. “My God… GES, this is a problem ooo… Who is keeping an eye on this, to stop these infractions?”
Mr Atta Mills, who has served three terms on PAC, said he was alarmed that the Ministry and GES had year after year failed to curb the irregularities, and called for sanctions against supervisors who allowed the lapses.
The issue came to light when Deputy Minister of Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, led a team from the Ministry before the PAC on Friday, August 22. He admitted that dishonesty and collusion among staff of the Ministry and GES had contributed to the persistence of such irregularities, and assured the Committee that steps would be taken to expose those involved.
The Auditor-General’s report also cited weak oversight and poor internal controls as enabling factors behind the infractions.
Meanwhile, responsibility allowances paid by the GES cover certain staff categories, including deputy directors, assistant directors, principal superintendents, school heads, heads of departments, and senior non-teaching officers such as principal accountants and internal auditors.
To address the broader payroll concerns, government has launched a nationwide audit to remove ghost names. Earlier this year, the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department announced the termination of salaries for tens of thousands of inactive or separated government workers and pledged to recover wrongful payments made through wrongful validation.
In a similar event, Over 2,000 ghost names have been deleted from the National Service Authority (NSA)payroll scheme as part of its cleanup exercise.The cleanup exercise, according to the Authority, will save Ghana over GH¢1 million.
While addressing the media, the NSA’s Director-General, Felix Gyamfi, indicated that the Controller and Accountant General’s Department will verify the details of legitimate service personnel.
“If you’re already on another payroll — whether as a police officer, immigration officer, or army officer — and you’re doing national service just to meet the requirement, do not submit your allowance form this month. “We are now working closely with the NIB and other security agencies, and anyone who attempts to defraud the system will be arrested,” Gyamfi warned.
The Fourth Estate, released a report into the payroll records from 2017 to 2023 and the 2024 National Service Year.The finding revealed serious irregularities within the NSA, uncovering how a 72-year-old Kenyan, Kwame Donkor, was wrongly listed as a beneficiary.
Mr Donkor was enlisted in the payroll with a photo and not an official ID card, which is unusual. However, the photo belonged to Emmanuel Mutio, a Human Resource Manager at a private IT company in Kenya. A 72-year-old Kenyan had his name appear on the payroll 226 times as a registered beneficiary.
The Fourth Estate initially uncovered the issue in November 2024, but the NSA obtained a court order preventing them from publishing the findings.
After the court later lifted the injunction, the report was finally released.
In response, President John Dramani Mahama ordered a probe into the matter.
The NIB, upon the President’s directive, interrogated the former Deputy Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah and Kwaku Ohene Djan, who is also a former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority. The payroll fraud reportedly cost Ghana GHȼ50 million monthly.
The government uncovered a major payroll discrepancy within the National Service Authority (NSA), identifying 81,885 suspected ghost names that may have led to substantial financial losses.
This revelation follows a detailed audit of active National Service personnel, exposing a vast gap between the actual number of personnel and the figures previously reported for allowance payments.
Official data now confirms that only 98,145 personnel are currently in service, compared to the 180,030 names submitted for payment in 2024.
“This figure is 81,885 less than the 180,030 names presented by the previous management of the Authority for allowance payment in 2024,” a government statement confirmed.
The discrepancy, which points to potential fraud or payroll inflation, was brought to light after an investigative report by The Fourth Estate, prompting swift action from the presidency.
In response, President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) to launch an immediate probe into the operations of the NSA. The investigation aims to determine the extent of the irregularities and hold those responsible accountable.
Additionally, the President has emphasized the urgent need for stricter payroll verification processes to prevent a recurrence of such financial mismanagement in the future.
The ongoing court case about the seizure of a 2019 Lamborghini Urus from dancehall star Shatta Wale is mainly about repayment, not punishment, according to international lawyer Amanda Clinton.
Ms Clinton stated: “The lack of criminal charges suggests this is truly about restitution—not punishing Shatta Wale, but securing repayment via the car.”
In an interview, the lawyer explained that because no criminal charges have been filed against Shatta Wale, the case looks more like a repayment process than a criminal trial.
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) started the investigation after a request from the U.S. Department of Justice, which wants the car returned as part of a court order.
The vehicle has been tagged as a “substitute asset” to help cover a US$4 million repayment order against Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian who was convicted of fraud in the U.S.
She further explained that EOCO’s job is to carry out asset seizure laws and make sure Ghana meets its obligations under an agreement with the U.S. known as a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT).
In Ghana, however, the process is not automatic. Even though EOCO has taken the car, it must still go to a High Court for permission to enforce the U.S. request. The court will decide if the car is considered “proceeds of crime” under Ghanaian law and whether Shatta Wale counts as an “innocent purchaser” who bought the car honestly.
“The EOCO’s investigation is not a direct fraud case against Shatta Wale but rather an enforcement of a foreign restitution order,” she explained in an interview with Citi FM.
Ms Clinton’s comments show how international justice systems work together to recover assets linked to global financial crimes.
Shatta Wale was held for nearly two days over the issue and released on August 21.
Shatta Wale, was released from the custody of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) after a bail variation.
Shatta Wale was on Wednesday night granted bail of GHC10,000,000 with two sureties to be justified in investigations surrounding a 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a car identified by the FBI and the US Justice Department as proceeds of a $4 million crime.
The $4 million crime involves Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian who is currently serving a jail term in the USA.
However, he was not able to make bail, prompting his legal counsel to apply for a variation of bail. Subsequently, EOCO granted the singer bail of GHC5 billion with two sureties to be justified.
Under the new conditions, Shatta Wale is required to report to EOCO three times a week as investigations continue.
Shatta Wale was invited by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following a public claim on August 5 that he purchased the car in question at a price of US$150,000 from an unidentified party.
According to EOCO in a press statement issued on August 21, an invitation was issued to Charles Nii Armah Mensah to report on August 13.
This was, however, rescheduled for August 20, 2025 at 10am.
“Counsel for Charles Nii Armah Mensah, indicated to EOCO officers that they would prefer to report at 11am. EOCO readjusted its schedule to align with their time. Shortly before 11am, Counsel for Nii Armah called EOCO to claim that his client was not available and that he was also busy,” a part of the statement noted.
EOCO indicated to the singer’s Counsel that he and his client were expected to report as scheduled.
Charles Nii Armah Mensah arrived in the Office around 3pm and, according to EOCO, insisted that he was not going to cooperate until his counsel arrived, a right which he is entitled and was accorded him.
“EOCO investigators and Charles Nii Armah Mensah waited from 11am till 5pm before his Counsel showed up. Incidentally, EOCO’s closing time is 5pm. Nevertheless, EOCO staff and the entire operational team chose to carry on with the interrogation which ended around 9pm. Officers eventually left the Office around 11pm,” the statement further revealed.
Nii Armah was only granted bail around 9pm shortly after interrogation ended.
Charles Nii Armah Mensah would only leave EOCO’s custody after it undertakes surety inspection, which is a standard protocol.
According to EOCO, Charles Nii Armah Mensah has been unable to identify the person from whom he purchased the said Lamborghini Urus vehicle.
He is reported to have said he purchased it from the “Street” and from someone possibly called “ZAK” who may have contacted him on WhatsApp but whose identity he does not know and whose contact he has thrown away.
Also, EOCO states that Charles Nii Armah Mensah does not also possess any documentation in terms of receipt or transfer documents which shows that he owns or purchased the said vehicle except a customs declaration document in his possession bearing the name of Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently in jail.
Earlier this morning, die-hard fans of Shatta Wale started to mass up at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following the singer’s detention on Wednesday.
They demanded his immediate release from EOCO detention.
EOCO’s investigation forms part of a larger investigation regarding possible co-conspirators in the $4m crime which occurred in the US involving some Ghanaians and recoveries of the proceeds of the crime.
Following requests from the FBI and the US Justice Department of EOCO to track the vehicle and conduct local investigations in respect of uncovering possible co-conspirators in Ghana, EOCO began looking for the vehicle until it was identified and seized in or around May this year in the possession of one Charles Nii Armah Mensah.
On August 15, 2025, a United States District Court of the Eastern District of Kentucky, Central Division of Lexington in a criminal case of the United States of America vrs. Nana Kwabena Amuah issued an order Forfeiting Substitute Asset on the Lamborghini Urus in question, authorising the US Government to take possession of the said vehicle in Ghana as restitution for the crime.
The newly sworn-in Board of the National Film Authority (NFA) has set its sights on rallying at least 1% of Ghanaians behind efforts to rejuvenate the local film landscape.
In its first sitting on August 19, the board prioritized strengthening film distribution and exhibition.
“Our priority is to restore confidence in the Ghanaian film industry by ensuring that local content reaches audiences effectively. Distribution and exhibition are the lifeblood of the industry, and we are determined to create opportunities that make Ghanaian films accessible to every citizen while positioning Ghana as a film hub in Africa,” Mr. Quashigah stated.
The discussion also highlighted the Authority’s responsibility to assure both domestic and international partners of its commitment to regulation, industry development, and global collaboration.
It underscored the National Film Authority’s role in maintaining trust among stakeholders through firm regulation, steady industry growth, and partnerships with international players.
The meeting further emphasized the Authority must demonstrate reliability to local and global partners by focusing on regulation, development and cross-border collaboration.
Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, has disclosed that his outfit, in collaboration with the Ministry of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Fosu, is taking steps to address piracy concerns in the country.
He explains that while his ministry is responsible for licensing, the Ministry of Government Communications works closely with the National Media Commission (NMC) and the National Film Authority (NFA) over piracy concerns.
However, he has joined Mr Kwakye Ofusu to engage the appriprioate authorities in handling arising concerns of piracy and copyright.
“We’ve taken critical steps, and Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu met with the National Film Authority and the NMC. We had a joint stakeholder meeting where we discussed this issue, and we are beginning to come up with the framework that is going to guide the broadcast of material and protection of intellectual property rights,” Sam George told the media during a press briefing held on August 1 as part of the Government Accountability Series to update the public on the progress of his ministry and the communications sector.
The Honourable minister further stated that he has given a 30-day ultimatum to the National Media Commission (NMC) to take action on piracy and copyright concerns.
According to him, the law does not permit the Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation ministry to tackle such concerns, and the National Media Commission(responsible for piracy concerns) had also said they are incapacitated of taking necessary action despite concerns raised.
He updated the public on the progress of his ministry and the communications sector, where Sam George said, he has put a system in place to help the National Media Commission take action against those involved in piracy and copyright violations.
“Let me just state that I am writing officially to the National Media Commission and that letter is to give the National Media Commission a 30-day mandate to take advantage of a resource that the National Communications Authority (which is under my ministry) has put at their disposal, the Broadcast Monitoring Centre.”
“The National Media Commission has always complained that they don’t have capacity. We have built capacity as the National Communications Authority, but because by law we don’t deal with content, we have made that available to the National Media Commission. We record and store for at least 90days, every single broadcast in this country, both radio and TV. It comes at a huge expense to us at the NCA,” he told the media.
Ghanaian filmmaker and actress Xandy Kamel has accused Fast TV of airing her newly released movie “Unseen Beauty” without permission.
In a video shared on her Instagram page, the actress in tears expressed anger and deep frustration at the Ghanaian TV station.
According to her, Fast TV stole the movie within two days after she uploaded it on YouTube.
“Why are some Ghanaians like this? You’ve managed to raise money to open a TV station, yet you’re saying you don’t have funds to buy content for it? I released a movie just two days ago and haven’t even made $10 from it, but Fast TV is pirating my film without my permission.”
“I’m struggling to find anyone to help promote it. I’ve shared it with some bloggers to assist in promoting the movie, but none have taken the opportunity to help,” she stated in the video while shedding tears.
Also, Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson has called out Ghanaian TV station, Blazing TV, for airing her movie titled ” The Firstborn” without authorization.
She took to Instagram on July 19, 2025, to express her displeasure with screenshots proving her claim.
“How is this even okay? Blazing TV in Ghana is airing my movie The Firstborn, without my consent. How does this even make sense? How? I am speechless at the audacity of it all,” she wrote beneath her Instagram post.
Mercy Johnson adds to several Nigerian actresses who have been calling out Ghanaian media houses and television stations for airing their movies wiithout authorization.
Several Nigerian filmmakers, including Ruth Kadiri, Bimbo Ademoye, and Omoni Oboli, have recently raised concerns about Ghanaian television stations airing their films without permission, drawing considerable attention online.
In a show of solidarity, some Ghanaian filmmakers have spoken out against the illegal broadcast of copyrighted material, urging stronger enforcement of intellectual property laws.
Their support has amplified the call for reform and accountability within Ghana’s media industry.
This article focuses on three Ghanaian filmmakers who have openly condemned the piracy of Nigerian films by local TV stations.
Juliet Ibrahim
Actress, author, and producer Juliet Ibrahim condemned the actions of the Ghanaian media houses involved in pirating Nigeria movies.
In her a post shared on her Instagram page, she expressed both outrage and deep disappointment.
“This is not a Nigerian issue; it is an African issue, and as a Ghanaian, I am ashamed that our local media houses are playing a central role in such unethical and illegal activities,” she wrote.
Juliet Ibrahim also took the opportunity to remind the public that piracy doesn’t just affect the filmmaker, but the entire ecosystem of professionals behind the scenes.
“Piracy is a crime. Exploiting someone’s hard-earned intellectual property is theft. It undermines years of investment, creativity, and the livelihoods of everyone involved in production,” she added.
She urged authorities to act swiftly and put in place regulatory measures that can protect the African film industry from further exploitation.
“Please step in immediately. We need robust action, regulation, and enforcement to protect content creators and restore the dignity of our film industry.”
Martha Ankomah
Martha Ankomah also added her voice to the growing chorus of creatives who have spoken about the piracy act.
Responding to Omoni Oboli’s Instagram post, Martha Ankomah said:
“I totally agree with you. You really have to take them on this time. They do that all the time and it’s so frustrating.”
Salma Mumin
Actress and entrepreneur Salma Mumin also spoke out against the situation.
She emphasised that filmmakers have the right to own and protect their work.
“I’m a Ghanaian actress but this is a big No! This is your intellectual property and you have every right to take immediate action. They know this is wrong!!!”
Meanwhile, the National Film Authority had earlier issued a letter to television stations warning them that if they air movies without proper authorization, their licenses will be revoked.
However, upon researching this matter, I discovered that the NFA is not even the institution responsible for revoking licenses,” she said.
But MC Yeboah criticizes the authorities for handling the movie piracy challenge with caution letters, describing it as a method that is no longer effective.
Mc Yeboah asserts that releasing a press statement against piracy offenders does not amount to punitive action that can deter culprits.
“Producers invest millions of cedis in making their movies, only for others to take these movies, air them on their platforms without permission, and profit from them.
Meanwhile, the institutions responsible for addressing piracy just issue letters, to avoid appearing inactive,” she said.
President John Dramani Mahama is set to launch Ghana’s first ever Key Performance Indicators (KPI), for diplomats and ambassadors tasking them to show tangible outcomes that attract investment and generate employment overseas, starting September 1, 2025.
This was announced by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, while speaking at the Ghana Presidential Investment Forum held in Yokohama, Japan, on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
“On the first of September, the President will be launching the first of its kind, a novel Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for all Ambassadors and diplomats from the Republic of Ghana. This has never happened in our history. And when you peruse that document, you will see that the honorary diplomacy is at the heart of it,” he said.
Mr Ablakwa further stated that the President is more concerned now about the impacts made by individuals occupying ambassadorial and diplomatic seats.
“The president wants our diplomacy to make an impact. Our diplomacy must lead to the improvement in the lives of the people. Our diplomacy must promote investment . And diplomacy must create a safe haven for all of those who invest in our country and that is what the foreign ministry has been charged to do,” Ablakwa shared.
Fifteen individuals have taken 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.
The Public Accounts Committee (PIAC) has ordered the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition to arrange for the arrest of former staff member Ms. Yaa Serwaa Gyan, who is said to have absconded after taking a fully paid study leave.
Nana Yaa Serwaa Gyan has been captured in the Auditor General’s report to have been granted study leave with pay amounting to over one hundred and twenty thousand Ghana cedis with the promise to return and serve a bond term.
The report, however, stated that she failed to return and has since vacated her post.
Consequently, Ranking Member on the Public Accounts Committee, Samuel Atta Mills, has asked the Ministry of Energy to join forces with the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the police for Ms Gyan’s arrest.
“Get the police. Get the foreign affairs also and let them know. She will probably go and renew her passport. And they will let her know that she owes this amount. Get the police involved. The government cannot pay for people to go for study leave and then when they finish, they abscond.”
“That is not fair, and the guarantor over here too let the police visit them. Let the police visit his house. You have the number. You have his name, and I am sure you have more information on the form that the guarantor signed. If I go to guarantee for somebody, make sure that person is going to pay. That is what we call corruption.It is not only when they hear corruption it is politicians. Is that man a politician? Is he a member of parliament? Is he a government appointee? Look at what he is doing,” Mr Mills stated.
He gave the Energy Ministry a thirty-day ultimatum to deliver on Ms. Gyan’s arrest.
“Get the police involved and let the committee know within thirty days,” Mr Samuel Atta Mills told the Energy Ministry, who were responding to queries during the PIAC sitting.
The Energy Ministry had earlier indicated in the meeting that, “Our checks show that she left the country about more than a year ago… we are told she has gone to the US.”
In a similar event, the Public Accounts Committee instructed the Office of the Head of the Civil Service to refund GHS175,000 to the Auditor-General’s recovery account within a month.
The directive was issued because the Civil Service Training Centre in Accra, overseen by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service (OHCS), could not provide documentation for the said amount during a 2024 audit.
“We will insist on the recovery. We looked at the documents that they provided, and yes, they acquitted payments, but they did not provide those documents at the time they were given extra time to do so,” Mr Osei-Asare said.
The committee is examining the 2024 Auditor-General’s Report, including the infractions of the OHCS as highlighted in the report.
Mrs Osei-Asare, who is also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament (MP) for Atiwa East in the Eastern Region, urged the OHCS to put in place the necessary measures to ensure that the infractions of failure to show documentation did not recur during the next audit.
“Failure to show documentation runs through all the infractions you have been cited for,” she said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been cited before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament for alleged financial mismanagement, including irregular salary payments and imprests.
The Auditor-General’s report has it that three Foreign Service Officers at the Abuja mission received unearned salaries. At the Ankara mission, 19 personnel together with the former head of the mission, received unearned imprests, amounting to €16,226, which has since been repaid.
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr James Gyekye Quayson, led the ministry’s defence before the committee on Tuesday in Parliament House, Accra.
A revelation which came during the public hearing.
Further, per the report, “The sum of $5,800 used to purchase a MacBook Air laptop and three Samsung S10 phones by the former Head of Mission for Malabo, Mrs Esther Dzifa-Ofori, remains unaccounted for.”
Appearing before PAC, Ambassador Ramses J. Cleland, the Chief Director of the Ministry, told the Committee he had reached out to Mrs Dzifa-Ofori, who is currently out of Ghana.
The Auditor-General’s report also revealed embezzlement in the Prague Mission, where a former accountant deducted monies from home-based officers into a euro account.
The PAC has raised concerns over the ministry’s failure to account for the funds used to purchase electronic devices and the lack of transparency in its financial dealings.
Mr Samuel Atta Mills, the Ranking Member of PAC, emphasized the need for the ministry to take immediate action to address these issues and prevent similar infractions in the future.
The PAC of Parliament, chaired by Madam Abena Osei Asare, the New Patriotic Party Member of Parliament (MP) for Atiwa East, is conducting a public hearing commencing Tuesday, August 19, to Tuesday, August 26, to review the Auditor-General’s report on Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) for December 31, 2024.
At Monday’s sitting, institutions that appeared before the committee included the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and the Office of the Head of Civil Service.
Proceedings opened with a moment of silence in honour of the late Environment Minister, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who, together with seven others, lost their lives in a helicopter crash two weeks ago.
He previously served as a member of PAC in the Eighth Parliament.
Over the six-day public hearing, the committee will scrutinise the Auditor-General’s report, which points to critical concerns such as Ghana’s public debt as well as deficiencies in financial reporting and asset management.
Ghanaian journalist Godwin Asediba has been named the winner of the 2025 BBC News Komla Dumor Award.
Asediba, an investigative journalist with Media General, becomes the tenth honoree of the award and the second Ghanaian to ever win the award.
Taking to the X platform, Godwin Asediba expressed excitement over the recent achievement.
He wrote, “Humbled, honored, and deeply inspired. I am proud to share that I have been awarded the 2025 BBC Komla Dumor Award.”
“This recognition is more than personal, it celebrates the power of African storytelling. It’s about amplifying the voices of our communities and honoring Komla Dumor’s vision that Africa’s stories be told with truth, depth, and dignity. Immensely grateful for this journey and the privilege to carry Komla’s legacy forward.”
Humbled, honored, and deeply inspired.
I am proud to share that I have been awarded the 2025 BBC Komla Dumor Award. This recognition is more than personal, it celebrates the power of African storytelling. It’s about amplifying the voices of our communities and honoring Komla… pic.twitter.com/l3XBD300CD
At 29-years old, his storytelling frequently addresses human-interest themes, seeking to challenge injustice and highlight overlooked voices.
Through his work, he has strived to share a deeper narrative of Africa with confidence, skill, and entrepreneurship.
He has earned multiple recognitions, including the 2025 Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling by the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), Best in Community Reporting (West Africa) at the 2024 CJID Excellence in Journalism Awards, Health Reporter of the Year at the 28th GJA Awards in 2024.
The others are Documentary TV Reporter of the Year at the 27th GJA Awards in 2023, and Environment & Science Journalist of the Year at the 26th GJA Awards in 2022, in addition to being honoured by the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) in 2022.
Asediba has also participated in the 2025 Professional Development Program with The Economist in London, the 2025 AI & Science Communication Workshop by the Responsible AI Lab (KNUST) with the British High Commission Accra and Ghana’s Ministry of Environment, Science & Technology, 2024 Human Rights Reporting Training, Centre for Journalism Innovation & Development (CJID) and the 2024 African Investigative Journalism Conference Fellowship at Wits University, South Africa.
Background
The award honours the legacy of Komla Dumor, a reputable and renowned Ghanaian broadcaster and former BBC World News presenter, who passed away at age 41.
In 2023, former TV presenter and journalist Paa Kwesi Asare won the BBC Komla Dumor Award. At the age of 36, he became the first Ghanaian to win the award and the eighth recipient.
In February this year, the 2025 BBC News Komla Dumor Award was launched, and journalists from across Africa were invited to apply for the award, which aims to uncover and promote fresh talent from the continent. Applications were closed on March 20.
Godwin Asediba is expected to spend three months at the BBC headquarters in London to gain skills and experience. He will also have the opportunity to travel to an African country to report on a researched story to the BBC global audience.
Last year, Rukia Bulle from Kenya won the 2024 BBC News Komla Dumor Award. She had the opportunity to travel to Senegal to report on the Baye Fall, an unorthodox Muslim minority, as part of her placement.
From 2015 to 2022, winners of the Komla Dumor Award have included Nancy Kacungira (Uganda, 2015), Didi Akinyelure (Nigeria, 2016), Amina Yuguda (Nigeria, 2017), Waihiga Mwaura (Kenya, 2018), Solomon Serwanjja (Uganda, 2019), Victoria Rubadiri (Kenya, 2020), and Dingindaba Jonah Buyoya (Zambia, 2022).
Komla Dumor’s works at BBC
Dumor was the presenter of Focus on Africa, the BBC’s first-ever dedicated daily TV news programme in English for African audiences. It was broadcast on BBC World News, which has now merged with the BBC News Channel to create a single 24-hour TV news service.
He was also one of the lead presenters for BBC World News’ European morning segment.
He joined the BBC in 2007 after a decade of broadcast journalism in his native Ghana, where he won the Ghana Journalist of the Year award.
Between 2007 and 2009 he hosted Network Africa on BBC World Service before joining The World Today programme.
In 2009, Dumor became the first host of the African business news programme on BBC World News, Africa Business Report. He travelled across Africa, meeting Africa’s top entrepreneurs and reporting on the latest business trends around the continent.
In 2013, Dumor featured in New African magazine’s list of the 100 most influential Africans.
Chief Executive Officer of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Julius Neequaye Kotey, has announced that its Adenta office will now offer 24-hour service to clients.
According to him, the decision is aimed at improving the efficiency and accessibility of their services.
In an interview on Channel One TV’s Face to Face Show on August 19, 2025, Mr Neequaye Kotey clarified that “For now, we are only implementing this at the Adenta office. This is the first office I opened after the renovation, where you can access all our services.”
The 24/7 service at the Adenta office is expected to minimise waiting times and provide greater flexibility for individuals seeking vehicle registration, driver’s licenses, and other essential services.
“You can get a license, undergo testing, register your vehicle, or even have your eyes tested at 2 a.m. We have seen from our statistics that people do utilise these services at night,” he added.
The move also reflects President Mahama’s pledge to implement a 24-hour economy during his campaign period ahead of the 2024 Presidential elections.
The policy was officially launched on Wednesday, July 2.
It is aimed at enhancing 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.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has confirmed the arrest of 8 suspects in connection with the Ablekuma North by-election violence.
The IGP made this disclosure during a meeting between the Police leadership and executives of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).
He said the suspects are being processed and will soon face the law.
“As of yesterday, I got 8 suspects. Eight suspects have been arrested, they are being processed, and from the advice I had from the regional commander, it means that tomorrow they will put them before court. Either tomorrow or Friday, all these suspects will be put before court,” Mr Yohuno explained.
Mr Tetteh Yohuno also clarified that the police officer who assaulted a journalist during the Ablekuma North rerun, had not been transferred, contrary to rumours, but was interdicted.
“Within the shortest possible time, we withdrew this policeman, and also what we did was that we had to interdict him. When you are interdicted, your uniform is taken away from you, you cannot go back to work. And there is a rumour going around that we have transferred the policeman from where he is to another police station, which is never true,” he stated.
He said, investigations into the officer’s conduct had been completed by the Police Professional Standards Bureau.
“That investigation has been completed and handed over to me. So it means that a service enquiry is going to be conducted into his conduct and then the appropriate sanction will follow,” he explained.
He further revealed that disciplinary action will soon be taken. “Just yesterday I received a report from the professional standard who said that we can go ahead and constitute a disciplinary action through our service orders against the police officer,” the IGP said.
A police officer captured on video assaulting a journalist during the Ablekuma North parliamentary re-run has been formally charged with assault, according to the Accra Regional Police Command.
The officer, who was interdicted shortly after the incident, is now facing criminal charges following a review of video evidence by the police.
In a statement issued by Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs, the police said they are analyzing multiple videos from the July 11 poll to identify all individuals involved in the violent incidents that marred the election.
“In line with due process, the Police Officer captured in one of the videos, assaulting a journalist who was interdicted, has been held for criminal charges of assault.” the statement indicated.
It adds that statements have been taken from complainants and witnesses, and victims have been issued Police Medical Report Forms as part of ongoing investigations.
The Command noted that it has gathered vital leads and assured the public that arrests will follow soon.
The police also emphasized their commitment to holding accountable anyone found culpable of violence, intimidation, or electoral misconduct. They encouraged the public to share credible information via emergency lines 18555 or 191.
The Electoral Commission (EC) on Friday, July 11, held a rerun election in 19 polling stations of the Ablekuma North to provide its constituents a representative after the 2024 parliamentary elections.
Ewurabena Aubynn polled 34,090 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Akua Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes.
Ablekuma North remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote after the 2024 polls.
On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.
However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.
Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.
These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.
The Electoral Commission (EC), after extensive deliberations, in July noted that it will hold the rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.
The EC arrived at this decision after it met with the representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.
The NDC now has 184 seats in Parliament with Aubynn’s victory, where has the NPP has 87 seats.
In the Fourth Republic, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has won the Ablekuma North parliamentary election seven times, whereas the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has claimed the seat twice.
Violence mars Ablekuma North rerun election
At the Odorkor Methodist 1 polling station in the Ablekuma North constituency, some individuals engaged in a fisticuff with the police personnel. Also, a JoyNews journalist was slapped by an unknown individual.
Former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and Member of Parliament for Ewutu Senya East Constituency, Hawa Koomson, was also assaulted by a group of men. A journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, was also slapped by a police officer.
The Ghana Police Service has interdicted one of its officers who was caught on camera slapping a journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, during the rerun election at Ablekuma North.
In line with internal disciplinary procedures, he has been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation.
The officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North.
The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter and further updates will be communicated.
It is unknown what exactly transpired between the reporter and a group of police officers that led to him being slapped.
The police officer’s action has been condemned by all, including the mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who witnessed the unfortunate incident.
Deputy Minister for Government Communications, Shamima Muslim, in reaction to the said incident, commended the police for its swift action to reprimand its officer for such unlawful acts and condemned the recent attacks against civilians and journalists during the Ablekuma North election rerun. “What we are happy about is the swift action that the Ghana Police itself has taken in interdicting the officer in question,” she said. “It is completely unwarranted. Government itself takes a very serious stance, especially on security agencies meting out unwarranted attacks to civilians under any circumstances,” she added.
President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor also condemned the attack on journalists. Due to the chaos that erupted, Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno visited some polling stations in the constituency.
The Minority in Parliament has also condemned the violence that took place during the just-ended Ablekuma North rerun election, accusing members of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of instigating violent activities.
In a statement signed by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the caucus said:
“The most disturbing aspect of today’s violence is not just the brutality itself, but the deliberate endorsement and celebration of these attacks by senior government officials. For example, Dr. Hanna Louisa Bissiw, National Women’s Organiser of the NDC and CEO of the Minerals Development Fund, provided perhaps the most damaging response with her statement that “violence begets violence” and her suggestion that the brutal attacks were somehow justified.”
“Even more shocking is the Facebook post by Malik Basintale, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and Deputy National Communications Officer of the NDC, who apparently celebrated the man who attacked Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson with the disturbing declaration, “From today, I name him the Flying Python. He shall be in charge of the 5k Airforce!” This grotesque celebration of violence against a former Member of Parliament represents a new low in Ghana’s political discourse,” the statement added.
The Minority has registered its displeasure with the operation of the Ghana Police Service at the polling stations.
“The Ghana Police Service’s response raises serious questions about their preparedness and commitment to protecting our electoral process. Security personnel were overwhelmed by the perpetrators, failing to prevent these attacks on political figures, party agents, and journalists. More concerning are allegations surrounding Chief Superintendent Lumor Frederick Senanu and his potential role in facilitating these disruptions.”
The caucus stressed the need for increased protection for voters, electoral officers, journalists, and candidates. It also called on the international community, civil society, and media to monitor developments closely.
Renowned Ghanaian filmmaker Shirley Frimpong-Manso has achieved a milestone with her Nollywood debut, Stitches, earning a spot in the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) Industry Select lineup.
She described the film as a contemporary African fairytale with themes that resonates universally.
“With its blend of glamour, grit, and raw emotion, Stitches is a story for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of societal expectation. This isn’t just a film. It’s a reminder that African stories – especially Nollywood ones – can inspire the world,” she said.
The film was hailed by TIFF programmer Liane Cunje for its grace and emotional resonance, as Shirley shared how personally meaningful the project became for her.
“Stitches stole my heart. I spent over a month in Lagos working on my first Nollywood film, and the experience was unforgettable. The story offered me refuge on my hardest days – a world of love, loss, family, and judgment that felt achingly familiar yet refreshingly new.”
Industry Selects is a curated showcase of 10 outstanding films chosen beyond TIFF’s Official Selection, reserved exclusively for accredited buyers and distributors.
It highlights works with strong global acquisition potential, making it one of the most anticipated categories at the festival.
Set in Lagos, Stitches follows the story of Boma, a talented young fashion designer who, after a personal tragedy, leaves her modest beginnings to join her estranged aunt’s high-society fashion house.
Caught between ambition, class struggles, and the search for acceptance, Boma’s journey intertwines with the city’s haute couture world and a budding romance with the son of Lagos’ leading philanthropic fashionista.
Stitches will be screened exclusively for industry professionals at TIFF 2025, marking a significant milestone for Frimpong-Manso as she expands her filmmaking beyond Ghana to Nollywood, further cementing her reputation as one of Africa’s most visionary storytellers.
Shirley Frimpong-Manso directed a stage play for the first time earlier this year
‘Honeymoon Hotel’ is the title of the stage production, sponsored by Africa Arts Network.
Shirley adapted the ‘HoneyMoon Hotel’ from playwright Stephen Yaw Oppong and was scheduled to run at the National Theatre in Accra from June 20th to 22nd, 2025.
So much excitement boiled up for the production due to its intriguing title, star power, and cultural significance.
A stellar cast
The play featured Joselyn Dumas, James Gardiner, Ama K. Abebrese, Godwin Namboh, Andrew Tandoh-Adote, Gadede Segbefia, David Dontoh, Jasmine Baroudi, Amanda Jissih and a seamless blend of other outstanding stage and screen actors.
About the play
Honeymoon Hotel, a witty and emotionally rich romantic dramedy set in a luxury hotel designed to celebrate everlasting love — but where not all is as romantic as it seems. As guests arrive with secrets, and the hotel staff navigate their own complicated relationships, chaos and comedy collide in unexpected ways.
The play tackled themes of love, commitment, deceit, and second chances with humour.
A new chapter for Shirley
Speaking on her transition from screen to stage, Shirley shared:
“Theatre is raw, immediate, and alive in a way that is different from film. I’m incredibly excited to be making my theatre debut — it’s been such a thrilling experience diving into rehearsals, working closely with this amazing cast, and rediscovering storytelling in its purest form.”
“Honeymoon Hotel is going to be sensational. It’s funny, it’s got a lot of drama and surprises, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we’ve been cooking up.”
Africa Arts Network, producers of recent theatrical successes including In the Chest of a Woman and You Play Me, I Play You, is once again pushing the boundaries of Ghanaian theatre with a fresh, contemporary production by combining high-quality storytelling, top-tier talent, and immersive production experience.
“Honeymoon Hotel is more than a production — it’s a milestone intended to shift the market size and growth of the theatre industry upward,” said Kofi Adinkra, Founder of Africa Arts Network.
“The introduction of Shirley Frimpong-Manso, one of Africa’s most renowned film directors, into the world of live theatre elevates the artistic standards of the production. “
“It also reinforces the significance of creative crossover to industry growth. Alongside Shirley, the inclusion of notable screen actors to theatre, I believe will help break the barriers between mainstream film production and stage performances, attract new audiences, expand the theatre reach and re-establish theatre as a dynamic, commercially viable space for Ghanaian storytelling.”
An unmissable experience
Expected to attract close to 9,000 audience members across the three days, Honeymoon Hotel is shaping up to be a cultural highlight of the year. With a compelling script, a celebrated director making her stage debut, and a cast of stars, this is theatre at its finest.
Gospel singer Selina Boateng has confidently stated that despite being chubby, she has no plan to visit the gym job for weight loss exercises.
According to her, visiting the gym rather means to stay healthy and maintaining her body.
Addressing body shaming comments, the singer told Nii Noi on the Hitz Praise Zone Show that it does not get to her because she often laughs them off.
“I have no intention of losing weight,” she stressed. “I just want to maintain my body and keep it in shape.”
Selina added that she is not moved by social media trolls because she believes God created her beautifully.
The gospel artiste has in the past responded to critics who ridiculed her for her size after videos of her struggling to get up during a praise ministration went viral. At the time, she stated that she was not embarrassed because her focus was on God, not people’s opinions.
Selina Boateng is known for several hit songs including Alpha and Omega featuring Uncle Ato, Menku Meho, Medofo Pa, and Eda Papa. Her music has earned her recognition as one of Ghana’s respected gospel voices.
She has passionately defended her fashion choice after facing criticism and speculation about her appearance in a tightly fitted corset dress.
The controversy arose in August 2023 when a viral video captured Boateng in a snug purple-laced Kente corset, prompting comments about her discomfort and appearance of breathlessness.
Fashion critic Charlie Dior, among others, criticized Boateng, describing the attire as a “hot mess” and suggesting she should have been accompanied by paramedics due to her perceived struggle for breath.
Boateng, however, remains steadfast in asserting that she looked flawless in the controversial outfit.
He said: “Selina Boateng is a gospel musician. We do not know who styled her, we don’t know who did her makeup or did her hair. We don’t know who did this abomination of a corset. None of this seems to be working because it is a hot mess. I think that this look should have come with the paramedics.
“There should have been a doctor, nurse, or surgeon on sight with this corset because watching her made me uncomfortable. This gospel musician has been causing a lot of conversations with her looks and gym videos.
“I definitely knew that she was also uncomfortable. The first rule in fashion, in fact in everything is to be safe and Selina wasn’t safe. She did not think about her safety when she put this corset on. I know corsets are in fashion.
“Everywhere I turn, the brides are all in corsets but it doesn’t mean that everyone needs to be in there. The corset was nice but the way it was styled was wrong. It pushed all her inside up. It was bad. Very bad. Corset mu cadet! Eii! This is unacceptable!” he exclaimed.
Selina Boateng addressed the matter on The Delay Show, which aired on December 16, 2023, and stated that her attire in question was acceptable.
She said: “Some people said I couldn’t breathe. I know myself and I know I could breathe but you rather thought I couldn’t breathe. I was okay.”
Responding to comments that a corset is not meant for her, Selina Boateng said: “It’s for me; why is it not for me? It was not made for ‘special people’. It’s for everyone. I don’t see anything wrong with the dress.”
In the meantime, Selina Boateng has stated that she is actively participating in the weight loss process and has committed to losing weight. She revealed that she regularly worked out at the gym in order to lose a significant amount of weight.
“I’m very active. It’s been sixteen days but it has been worth it. I know I have a long way to go,” she said.
Shas passionately defended her fashion choice after facing criticism and speculation about her appearance in a tightly fitted corset dress.
The controversy arose in August 2023 when a viral video captured Boateng in a snug purple-laced Kente corset, prompting comments about her discomfort and appearance of breathlessness.
Fashion critic Charlie Dior, among others, criticized Boateng, describing the attire as a “hot mess” and suggesting she should have been accompanied by paramedics due to her perceived struggle for breath.
Boateng, however, remains steadfast in asserting that she looked flawless in the controversial outfit.
He said: “Selina Boateng is a gospel musician. We do not know who styled her, we don’t know who did her makeup or did her hair. We don’t know who did this abomination of a corset. None of this seems to be working because it is a hot mess. I think that this look should have come with the paramedics.
“There should have been a doctor, nurse, or surgeon on sight with this corset because watching her made me uncomfortable. This gospel musician has been causing a lot of conversations with her looks and gym videos.
“I definitely knew that she was also uncomfortable. The first rule in fashion, in fact in everything is to be safe and Selina wasn’t safe. She did not think about her safety when she put this corset on. I know corsets are in fashion.
“Everywhere I turn, the brides are all in corsets but it doesn’t mean that everyone needs to be in there. The corset was nice but the way it was styled was wrong. It pushed all her inside up. It was bad. Very bad. Corset mu cadet! Eii! This is unacceptable!” he exclaimed.
Selina Boateng addressed the matter on The Delay Show, which aired on December 16, 2023, and stated that her attire in question was acceptable.
She said: “Some people said I couldn’t breathe. I know myself and I know I could breathe but you rather thought I couldn’t breathe. I was okay.”
Responding to comments that a corset is not meant for her, Selina Boateng said: “It’s for me; why is it not for me? It was not made for ‘special people’. It’s for everyone. I don’t see anything wrong with the dress.”
In the meantime, Selina Boateng has stated that she is actively participating in the weight loss process and has committed to losing weight. She revealed that she regularly worked out at the gym in order to lose a significant amount of weight.
“I’m very active. It’s been sixteen days but it has been worth it. I know I have a long way to go,” she said.
Two of Shatta Wale’s songs have been removed from Apple music by music producer MOG Beatz.
His decision was driven by claims that the dancehall star sold his catalogue without giving him and other producers proper credit or payment.
MOG Beatz announced on X (formerly Twitter), 19th August 2025, that he had taken down Shatta Wale’s Reign Album and Wondaboy Album, citing unresolved issues of credit and royalties.
“You sell my beats, erase my credit, then buy luxury cars,” MOG fumed in a post directed at Shatta Wale.
According to him, Shatta Wale wrongfully claimed production credit for songs he and other producers made in order to secure money from an international company without their knowledge or consent.
MOG warned that the removal of the albums was only the beginning.
“Two albums have already been taken down, and more are coming down soon. Sell your assets and refund the company you scammed. Leasing your catalogue just to survive? That’s the path you chose. This time, the talk will come with action,” he wrote.
The award-winning producer, who produced some songs on Shatta Wale’s Reign Album – Gringo, Bend Over, If I See, and Squeeze, said he had been cheated despite his contribution to the project.
This fresh clash comes on the back of a long-running dispute between the two. In 2021, MOG Beatz publicly accused Shatta Wale of failing to pay him for 10 songs he produced on the Reign Album. Although Shatta Wale had promised compensation, MOG said he was never paid even after the album became a major success.
“Money Man @shattawalegh, me I dey see you as a big brother I never had. I know say you no be STINGY like that lol, I produced 10 songs on the #ReignAlbum but ano see no CASH from you since 2018. Seeing this made me laugh sooo hard,” MOG wrote at the time.
With tensions resurfacing, the battle between MOG Beatz and Shatta Wale over credits and royalties appears far from over.
Sound producer MOG Beatz has confronted dancehall artiste Shatta Wale, accusing him of using his intellectual property to scam a company.
According to MOG Beatz, Shatta Wale took over 25 songs he had produced and rebranded them under his own name.
He alleged that the dancehall artiste secured an advance running into millions of dollars from the deal, which he used to acquire luxury cars, including Rolls Royce to portray wealth above fellow Ghanaian artistes.
“The 2021 fight it happen, you no learn sense from inside, the money you no pay me. On a normal day, that Rolls-Royce you no fit accord am. Why you for come involve me and scam the company using my property after 2021, why you no learn lesson. Your fans, I know them go come side you and things all, eno be problem, if you think this one be defamation of character, make you bring evidence, me to I go bring my evidence,” MOG Beatz stated in a video shared on X.
The Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) in June seized a 2019 Lamborghini Urus used by Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, after its Surveillance And Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) undertook a lawful search in a home at Trassaco Valley Phase 1, in Accra.
The search, said to be “professional and civil,” was conducted on a 2023 request from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the United States Justice Department.
EOCO clarified that “it is a standard safety protocol practice for officers of the Surveillance and Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) to carry weapons whilst on operation for the safety of officers.”
According to the EOCO, the FBI and the Justice Department have tied the seized vehicle to the proceeds of the criminal enterprise of one Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently serving an 86 month sentence for several financial crimes in the United States of America (USA).
It is reported that Nii Armah pleaded with officers that he did not want the seizure to be made public because “the vehicle was a big part of his brand, and if his supporters saw the vehicle being driven away in the company of EOCO, it would destroy his brand.”
In light of this, Nii Armah was allowed to surrender the vehicle himself, which is currently in the possession of the Economic and Organized Crime Office.
According to EOCO, the FBI and the Justice Department intend to send a formal Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) to the Government of Ghana to return the car to the United States as part of Nana Kwabena Amuah’s $4,743,443 restitution.
Charles Nii Armah and a former senior officer of the National Signal Bureau (NSB) have been assessed as persons of interest and will be invited by EOCO to assist in further ongoing investigations in the coming days.
EOCO has noted that it may share the final investigation report with the FBI and the Justice Department “as part of our ongoing cooperation.”
Per reports, Nana Kwabena Amuah was jailed in October 2023 after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. His actions and those of his co-conspirators resulted in the attempted theft of almost $4 million by defrauding almost 70 public and private organisations and wiring money into bank accounts through a shell company named Gretson Company LLC.
Twenty-four-year-old Shimea Maret McDonald, who is said to have had over 40 fake identity cards in her possession and helped Amuah move the stolen money and launder it through shell companies, pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.
“This crime deprived businesses of their operating funds and caused significant harm to the well-being of the people who own and run those companies,” Prosecutor Kathryn Dieruf stated.
“I ask for a second chance, and I promise you will never see me in this courtroom again,” Nana Kwabena Amuah is quoted to have told the judge.
Judge Karen Caldwell, however, noted that “the crimes he helped commit were incredibly serious.”
The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election will begin today, Wednesday, August 20.
This was disclosed at a meeting convened by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) with political representatives to discuss security measures and strategies to curb electoral violence. The Commission’s Director of Electoral Services, Benjamin Bano-Bioh, told the media that, “as of now (August 19), we are going to start the printing of ballots from tomorrow (which is today).”
“Procurement has already been done. We have procured all the materials required for the election, so we are already,” he stated. Benjamin Bano-Bioh further explained that his outfit is “poised to deliver on our mandate in a professional way. We call on political parties to play by the rules,” he added.
The Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, also briefed political parties, outlining critical security arrangements for the election.
Following the death of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, the by-election has been scheduled to elect his successor. The Electoral Commission (EC) is expected to hold the by-election in the Akwatia Constituency of the Eastern Region on Tuesday, September 2.
The election became necessary after the death of the constituency’s representative, Ernest Yaw Kumi, who was reported dead on Monday, July 7. On Monday, August 4, the Electoral Commission will conduct balloting to ensure fairness in the order in which candidates appear on the ballot paper.
The two major political parties are preparing vigorously for the contest. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in Akwatia, Eastern Region, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2.
This follows an internal election conducted by the party on Monday, August 4, to select a representative for the by-election. The competition was between former Member of Parliament Henry Boakye, the current NDC Akwatia Constituency Secretary Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and Erasmus Koney Ali.
Bernard Bediako Baidoo polled 380 votes, Erasmus Ali Korney secured 366 votes, and Yiadom garnered 232 votes. On the other hand, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the upcoming by-election.
According to the Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Jeff Konadu Addo, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders.
He explained, “The National Council of the party set up a committee and we were tasked to find out who could be our candidate or whether we will do primaries or not.
“So, the team went to Akwatia in the constituency, had a lot of engagement with the grassroots, electoral area coordinators, polling station officers, chiefs, opinion leaders, and the majority of the people said that for primaries, we should take it out. We shouldn’t conduct primaries in Akwatia. And that’s exactly what we followed.”
Earlier, reports suggested that the widow of the late Member of Parliament, Mrs. Mavis Kumi, had expressed interest in contesting the seat. However, the Eastern Regional NPP Chairman, Jeff Konadu Addo, on Tuesday, July 15, dismissed such reports, emphasizing that campaign flyers making such claims were false.
“We wish to categorically state that this information is false, misleading, and should be treated with the utmost contempt it deserves,” Jeff Konadu Addo said.
He further clarified that Mrs. Mavis Kumi had no interest in contesting the position but was focused on mourning her husband.
“She has unequivocally communicated that she has no interest in contesting the seat or participating in active politics at this time. Her current focus is to mourn her husband with dignity and in peace,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka, has urged security personnel who will be deployed to oversee the by-election in the Akwatia constituency to remain vigilant while carrying out their duties.
He reminded them to reflect on the recent violence that occurred during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency and to work proactively to prevent a recurrence.
According to him, the government will ensure that such incidents are not repeated in future elections. The minister made these remarks at the government’s accountability series in Accra on Monday, July 14.
“This is also a wake-up call for our security agencies to know that probably what happened [in Ablekuma North]…gives our security agencies the opportunity to even plan better towards Akwatia.
“All I can assure the people of Akwatia is that we will use Ablekuma North as a case study to review how we operate in Akwatia—to make sure that the citizens are free to cast their votes and express their will without fear or favour,” Muntaka added.
In a related development, the country will soon prepare for another by-election in the Tamale Central constituency following the death of its legislator, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. He was among the eight individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 10. He was laid to rest on the same day.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has, however, declared its intention not to participate in the by-election expected to be conducted in the Tamale Central constituency on September 30.
According to a statement signed by the NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the decision follows extensive consultations with stakeholders. He explained that the decision is a gesture of respect for the late MP and the other victims of the helicopter crash.
“The New Patriotic Party is of the belief that it would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to a competitive process in search of a replacement for the departed Member of Parliament. The tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided,” parts of the statement read.
Minister for Health Honourable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has confirmed that the Ridge Hospital incident that saw the assault of health practitioners has led to several arrests by the Ghana Police Service.
“The law has so far dealt with all those who did something wrong, and we are also investigating as a ministry. Anyone who comes to tell you that no arrest has been made in this matter is probably someone who is not ready to contribute to the resolution of this matter,” the Minister told Asempa FM on August 19, without disclosing the names of the suspects.
The arrests stem from an incident involving a member of the pressure group Democracy Hub, Mr. Ralph Afful Williams, popularly known as “Fellow Ghanaians.” He reportedly stormed the hospital with about eight men, protesting what he described as delays in treating a critically injured patient.
Hospital management was forced to call in the Ghana Police Service after the situation escalated into the assault of a nurse. Following the incident, several groups and individuals have demanded the arrest of Ralph Williams, describing his actions as unlawful.
Nonetheless, the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest Ralph and his accomplices. The association has warned that it will be compelled to “advise itself” if immediate action is not taken.
According to the GRNMA’s General Secretary, Dr. David Tenkorang Twum, the nurse who was attacked sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the hospital. He described the assault as unacceptable and stressed that health workers cannot operate in an unsafe environment.
“If anybody can just walk into a facility, like Ridge Hospital, and throw his weight about and beat like a midwife, and you have other party apparatchiks telling them to egg him on, that is unfortunate. We are not happy at all. Our people are traumatized,” he stated.
He continued, “We are very civilized people. We are professionals. And we are asking the government to arrest the guy immediately and the eight accomplices; we were told there were about 50 guys that day. But those who laid their hands on the lady—there were about eight, including Ralph himself. And therefore, if he’s not arrested within 48 hours, we shall advise ourselves.”
Dr. Tenkorang also referenced Section 119 of Ghana’s Labour Act, which empowers workers to withdraw their services if their health and safety are at risk.
“And we are all guided by law. In that, if you read section 119, subsection 1, it is stated that if you are a worker and you think that your safety is not guaranteed, your life and your health are not guaranteed, and you have every right under the law to remove yourself from that danger. And our people have told us this morning, after interacting with them, that they are not safe. They feel that their safety has been breached,” he said.
The association insists that both Ralph Williams and the eight identified accomplices must be arrested immediately to restore confidence and ensure justice for the victim. Their demand follows the circulation of a viral video showing a violent altercation between some patient relatives and medical staff at the hospital’s emergency department.
The Minority in Parliament has also intensified calls for Ralph’s arrest. In a statement dated Tuesday, August 19, and signed by the Ranking Member on the Health Committee, Dr. Nana Ayew Afriye, the group condemned the actions of Ralph and his team.
They described the conduct as “unlawful, reckless, and deeply inconsiderate,” stressing that hospitals are places of care and confidentiality, not “arenas for political theatrics.” The Minority urged the Ghana Police Service to fully investigate the matter and called on the Health Minister to set up a joint parliamentary inquiry to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The sanctity of our health facilities must be preserved at all times,” the statement concluded, urging political actors to refrain from compromising patient care for partisan ends.
In response, the Ministry of Health has announced measures to beef up security at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital. The Ministry said this will ensure the safety of staff, patients, and the general public, while also addressing any gaps that may have contributed to the reported delay in treatment.
Reiterating its commitment to protecting healthcare workers, the Ministry confirmed that Health Minister Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has already visited the facility to receive firsthand information. He assured hospital management and staff of the Ministry’s full support and protection.
“We call on the public to exercise patience, cooperation, and mutual respect at all times to enable healthcare workers to provide effective and timely care,” the Ministry of Health added in a statement.
Ghana’s ambition to establish a world-class petroleum and petrochemical complex has received a major boost following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC) and Mannschaft Engineering and Infrastructure Systems, a Ghanaian firm. The agreement was concluded on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
The strategic partnership empowers Mannschaft Engineering and Infrastructure Systems to provide financial, logistical, and technical expertise to advance the transformative Petroleum Hub project.
As part of the agreement, Mannschaft is required to contribute GH₵150 million as partial compensation for landowners whose properties fall within the 20,000-acre site designated for the project.
The company will also play a critical role in resettling communities affected by Phase One of the initiative while providing additional financial, logistical, and technical support for construction. This commitment will see Mannschaft invest another GH₵150 million into the Petroleum Hub project.
At the signing ceremony, Dr. Toni Aubynn, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the PHDC, expressed profound enthusiasm, describing the agreement as a monumental stride toward securing compensation and enabling the project’s commencement.
“This partnership is a tremendous relief. Securing even half of the required funding for compensation alleviates significant pressure on the PHDC and accelerates our timeline for developing the Petroleum Hub.”
Dr. Aubynn emphasised the transformative potential of the collaboration, expressing confidence that Mannschaft’s involvement would expedite construction and ensure high-calibre engineering and logistical services for Phase One.
He commended Mannschaft, a Ghanaian enterprise, for its bold investment in the hub and urged other local firms to follow suit, reinforcing the project’s role as a catalyst for national development.
“I am elated to witness this milestone, the culmination of extensive behind-the-scenes efforts. This MoU secures funding for Phase One compensation, and I am confident that both parties will uphold their commitments. The PHDC is fully dedicated to implementing measures to achieve the agreement’s objectives.”
On behalf of the Minister of Energy and Green Transition and His Excellency President John Mahama, Dr. Aubynn thanked Mannschaft for their consistent commitment to the project and expressed hope that the MoU would translate into tangible results.
Maxwell Adu, Chief Executive Officer of Mannschaft Engineering and Infrastructure Systems, hailed the Petroleum Hub as a visionary endeavour to position Ghana as a leading energy and industrial hub in Africa.
He affirmed that Mannschaft’s mission aligns seamlessly with the hub’s objectives, pledging to leverage the company’s expertise in energy and logistics to drive the construction of Phase One and contribute to a project poised to revolutionise Ghana’s energy sector.
Following the signing of the MoU, Mannschaft will disburse GH₵150 million to the Lands Commission as partial compensation for affected landowners.
Subsequently, the Lands Commission will issue an administrative fiat, formally declaring the acquisition of the designated land and outlining the process for compensating impacted individuals and families.
The Ministry of Finance has announced another successful coupon payment of GH¢9,698,815,220.17. under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) today, August 19, 2025.
According to information shared on Minister of Finance Ato Forson’s X handle, the amount was paid on August 19 2025.
He wrote that, with this payment, total disbursements under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme in 2025 alone now stands at GH¢19.4 billion.
Adding that, the payment demonstrates Government’s unwavering commitment to honouring the terms outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding signed under the exchange programme and is expected to strengthen investor confidence and support fiscal credibility.
He said, in line with the 2025 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review, the government has established two dedicated sinking fund accounts—a Cedi Sinking Fund Account and a US Dollar Sinking Fund Account—as mandated by the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), as amended.
These will provide liquidity buffers to ensure the timely redemption of loan obligations, including bonds maturing in 2026, 2027, and 2028.
Mr Forson said, government has assured investors and the public that subsequent debt obligations, including DDEP obligations, will be honoured fully and on time.
Earlier this year, President John Mahama instructed the Ministry of Finance to pay all outstanding Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) coupons and set aside funds for future payments using the Sinking Fund.
Following this directive, the Ministry of Finance released GH₵6.081 billion in cash to DDEP bondholders on Monday, February 17. In addition, GH₵3.46 billion was credited to bondholders’ securities accounts as part of a Payment-In-Kind (PIK) arrangement, following the terms of the DDEP agreement.
To improve debt management, the government also deposited GH₵9.7 billion into the Debt Service Recovery Cedi Account, also known as the Sinking Fund. This money will help cover the next five DDEP coupon payments scheduled for July and August 2025.
President Mahama assured Ghanaians that his administration remains committed to meeting all DDEP obligations and rebuilding trust in the economy.
He added that the 2025 Budget Statement will introduce new steps to promote responsible financial management, prioritize key expenses, and improve transparency in government spending.
Despite the economic difficulties inherited from the previous government, the administration is working to stabilize the cedi, reduce inflation, and create jobs.
Through careful financial planning, Mahama’s government aims to restore economic stability and ensure that public funds are used efficiently.
The Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) is an initiative by the Government of Ghana aimed at restructuring the country’s domestic debt to ensure long-term macroeconomic stability.
The DDEP concluded successfully with the issuance and settlement of new bonds, which have now been listed to serve as the new benchmark securities for the fixed income market.
Coupon and principal payments on the old bonds resumed on March 13, 2023. S&P Global Ratings acknowledged the completion of the DDEP by upgrading Ghana’s local currency sovereign credit ratings from selective default (SD) to ‘CCC+/C’.
The program saw a high participation rate, with the majority of eligible bonds being tendered. The government is now focusing on engaging with external creditors to ensure overall debt sustainability.
Ghanaian Afro-fusion singer Jacqueline Acheampong, known professionally as Gyakie is set to release her ‘After Midnight’ debut album on August 29.
She describes the album as a work of art inspired by the peacfulness and mystery that come with staying up in the night.
“Almost all the songs on the album were recorded after midnight,” Gyakie revealed. “It is within those hours that I find my best inspiration to write. The peace and quiet, the sounds from the birds, the serenity, everything about that time fuels my creativity.”
The album was directed by award-winning filmmaker Alex Piper, who has handled music projects with Rema, Playboi Carti and Travis Scott.
The visual captures Gyakie’s growth and artistry with cinematic depth. It offers fans an intimate glimpse into the story, spirit, and soul that shape her first full-length project.
Gyakie has been named in Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 Class of 2025.
The announcement was made on X by Forbes Africa with the caption, “The FORBES AFRICA 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 has officially landed — and this year’s trailblazers are rewriting the rules of what it means to lead.”
The recognition highlights Gyakie’s soulful sound, cross-border collaborations and influence as a cultural ambassador for Ghana and Africa.
The songbird took to Instagram to express her gratitude for the acknowledgment.
“Grateful to be a part of the @forbesafrica 30 under 30 prestigious list with other amazing people. thanks for the recognition. this is for my fans, family, friends and country,”
She also spoke at the 2025 Forbes Woman Africa Leading Women Summit, sharing insights on her artistic evolution and her genre-blending approach, incorporating Afro-fusion, R&B, hip-hop, and highlife.
She stated recently that her fans in Japan are buzzing her phone as they can’t wait for her performance at the maiden edition of the Afro Jam Festival.
“I’ve been getting a lot of dms from my people in Japan that they cannot wait for me to get there.”
“When I got the information that they needed me for the performance, I had to actually take in that I was going to Asia. I can’t believe it,” she told Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z.
The Afro Jam Festival, slated for July 18 to 27, 2025, will feature other artists including Jason Derulo, Rema, Ruger, and Shenseea.
Gyakie will be performing on July 18 in Okinawa, July 24 in Osaka, and July 27 in Tokyo.
The goal of Afro Jam Fest is to introduce and celebrate Afrobeats culture in Japan.
Japan is fast becoming a market for Afrobeats, the festival is expected to cement the global appeal of the music form.
The “Rent Free” hitmaker has joined Ghanaian musicians, who are making strides in Asia. King Promise, KiDi and the Santrofi band are among artistes in this league.
She had said that her expectations were met in the release of her EP “My Diary” in November 2022.
She is excited her fans have not been disappointed in the sound that came out and still feels they are not done consuming the music yet per the response from social media.
“I never saw myself to be this big if I was asked four or five years ago,” Gyakie told DJ Reuben in an interview on Luv FM’s Drivetime show in Kumasi.
“To be very honest I never had that confidence in myself, I didn’t know my voice was this unique. I had to get people to tell me,” she said.
The responses she got from her fans made her realize she needed to be confident in herself and that has enhanced her career growth.
There are times she cries, complains, feels tired and even wants to stop the music.
“First of all, I have a soft side and there have been times when everything just feels too much for you as a person. Immediately you come into the camera and show yourself to the world, people see you as a machine and don’t see you as a human with emotions so they just say things and don’t imagine how the person is going to feel about it,” Gyakie said.
The ‘Forever’ hitmaker revealed every member of her team is very religious and she is very grateful to God for that.
“One thing we don’t joke with is fasting and prayers to be very honest with you. Most of the songs that come out, we do fast and pray before we make it available on all streaming platforms for people to consume, and obviously, there’s a lot of groundwork that is done to push whatever song that is coming out,” she stated.
Gyakie mentioned the Global Citizen Festival 2022 at the Black Star Square as the biggest platform she has mounted so far.
“I was nervous at the beginning but when I saw the people were excited to see me then I said to myself we are in for the fun and it made me so happy till the end of my performance and the entire show,” she shared the experience.
The event was headlined by American R&B artist Usher and SZA.
The ‘Live Experience with Gyakie’ concert is slated for this December.
She is also billed to perform at the Afronation and Afrochella concerts.
Sound producer MOG Beatz has confronted dancehall artiste Shatta Wale, accusing him of using his intellectual property to scam a company.
According to MOG Beatz, Shatta Wale took over 25 songs he had produced and rebranded them under his own name.
He alleged that the dancehall artiste secured an advance running into millions of dollars from the deal, which he used to acquire luxury cars, including Rolls Royce to portray wealth above fellow Ghanaian artistes.
“The 2021 fight it happen, you no learn sense from inside, the money you no pay me. On a normal day, that Rolls-Royce you no fit accord am. Why you for come involve me and scam the company using my property after 2021, why you no learn lesson. Your fans, I know them go come side you and things all, eno be problem, if you think this one be defamation of character, make you bring evidence, me to I go bring my evidence,” MOG Beatz stated in a video shared on X.
Shatta Wale, why did you scam a company using my intellectual property? If this is defamation, then prove it pic.twitter.com/KUnfdjIRwY
The Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) in June seized a 2019 Lamborghini Urus used by Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, after its Surveillance And Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) undertook a lawful search in a home at Trassaco Valley Phase 1, in Accra.
The search, said to be “professional and civil,” was conducted on a 2023 request from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the United States Justice Department.
EOCO clarified that “it is a standard safety protocol practice for officers of the Surveillance and Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) to carry weapons whilst on operation for the safety of officers.”
According to the EOCO, the FBI and the Justice Department have tied the seized vehicle to the proceeds of the criminal enterprise of one Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently serving an 86 month sentence for several financial crimes in the United States of America (USA).
It is reported that Nii Armah pleaded with officers that he did not want the seizure to be made public because “the vehicle was a big part of his brand, and if his supporters saw the vehicle being driven away in the company of EOCO, it would destroy his brand.”
In light of this, Nii Armah was allowed to surrender the vehicle himself, which is currently in the possession of the Economic and Organized Crime Office.
According to EOCO, the FBI and the Justice Department intend to send a formal Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) to the Government of Ghana to return the car to the United States as part of Nana Kwabena Amuah’s $4,743,443 restitution.
Charles Nii Armah and a former senior officer of the National Signal Bureau (NSB) have been assessed as persons of interest and will be invited by EOCO to assist in further ongoing investigations in the coming days.
EOCO has noted that it may share the final investigation report with the FBI and the Justice Department “as part of our ongoing cooperation.”
Per reports, Nana Kwabena Amuah was jailed in October 2023 after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. His actions and those of his co-conspirators resulted in the attempted theft of almost $4 million by defrauding almost 70 public and private organisations and wiring money into bank accounts through a shell company named Gretson Company LLC.
Twenty-four-year-old Shimea Maret McDonald, who is said to have had over 40 fake identity cards in her possession and helped Amuah move the stolen money and launder it through shell companies, pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.
“This crime deprived businesses of their operating funds and caused significant harm to the well-being of the people who own and run those companies,” Prosecutor Kathryn Dieruf stated.
“I ask for a second chance, and I promise you will never see me in this courtroom again,” Nana Kwabena Amuah is quoted to have told the judge.
Judge Karen Caldwell, however, noted that “the crimes he helped commit were incredibly serious.”
Recently, Shatta Wale was in the news after City of Wisdom’s prophet and counsellor, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh, prophesied the death of the Ghanaian dancehall artiste.
He shared the video of how he received two visions about the musician’s fate. In the first vision, Shatta Wale was attacked by armed men but managed to escape and later thanked God on social media. In the second vision, the prophet said three gunmen ambushed Shatta Wale and fatally shot him.
Just a day after the Reverend’s prophecy went viral, Shatta Wale took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, July 23, and said he was traumatised, calling for the arrest of the pastor, which the Ghana Police swiftly responded to and apprehended the pastor on July 26.
Aside from Shatta Wale’s reaction, social media was thrown into a frenzy over the ‘Gringo’ hitmaker’s death prophecy, drawing police arrest calls from his fans.
Following this, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh issued a formal apology to the singer.
In a statement dated July 27, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh acknowledged the need for him to offer an apology for the trauma and panic he has caused Shatta Wale following the doom prophecy he gave in a video shared on his official Facebook page on Tuesday, July 22.
“I, Counsellor D Y DONKOH, find it right to address the recent prophecy I shared concerning Ghanaian music icon Shatta Wale. The prophecy, which was delivered on all my social media platforms, has since sparked widespread concern, and I find it necessary to offer an apology on the matter,” parts of the statement read.
In May this year, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) met with Ghanaian musician Shatta Wale, who is the CEO of SHAXI – a ride-hailing platform set up in 2021—for a youth employment partnership.
This strategic partnership with SHAXI will create thousands of jobs for Ghanaian youth who remain unemployed or seek better job opportunities.
As part of this collaboration, YEA will support the first 2,000 vehicles that subscribe to the SHAXI platform with GHC500 worth of fuel coupons every month for six months.
“This bold move is designed to ease the operational cost for drivers and encourage more youth participation in the transport business,” YEA noted.
SHAXI vehicles that operate on a 24-hour basis will receive additional incentives. This ensures that at least two young people can be employed per vehicle, working in shifts, and maximizing both income and job creation potential.
YEA noted that “this is a true game-changer in public-private collaboration where innovation and star power are used to drive real impact in youth employment!”
On his part, Shatta Wale noted that he is open to making more investments in the tech industry to provide more jobs to the youth.
This is not the first initiative being taken by YEA; in April this year, the agency entered a one-year agreement with SoccaBet Ghana to create 500 job placements.
Also, the agency, in partnership with the Ghana Fire Service, will recruit 5,000 young Ghanaians as fire assistants across the country.
The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and the Ghana Police Service have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to recruit 12,000 young individuals across the country to serve as Community Police Assistants (CPAs).
Speaking at the signing ceremony on Monday, May 19, at the Ministry of Interior, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of YEA, Malik Basintale, noted that the government’s priority is not solely about creating job opportunities but “involving our youth in building safer communities.””We are here today because we have found some 12,000 jobs within the Ghana Police Service. Every day and anytime I wake up, the first thing that comes to mind is where I can find jobs for young people out there.”His Excellency the President is always willing to hear the number of jobs that have been found and delivered to young people. Today, we have found 12,000 more jobs for young people out there, and we are ready to exhibit in the coming days,” he added.
Prices at some fuel shops have not changed, despite predictions of an increase for the second pricing window in August
Fuel cost was earlier projected to rise during this period according to the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC)
A statement sighted by GhanaWeb Business, has it that petrol prices at the pumps were estimated by COMAC to rise between 0.39% and 2.71%, while LPG was projected to increase by 0.15% to 2.34%.
Diesel in contrast was forecasted to slightly drop by 0.21% to 0.72% starting August 16.
See the current prices at the pumps as of August 18, 2025:
StarOil: Petrol – GH¢11.97, Diesel – GH¢13.97
GOIL: Petrol – GH¢12.88, Diesel – GH¢14.38
Zen: Petrol – GH¢11.99, Diesel – GH¢13.99
TotalEnergies: Petrol – GH¢12.89, Diesel – GH¢14.33
Shell: Petrol – GH¢14.33
Prices of diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) were expected to decline with petrol increasing at the pumps, effective August 1, as reported by the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC).
According to a report by the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), petrol at the pumps was to increase by 0.47% to GH¢2.80 per liter.
On the other hand, diesel and LPG prices have been projected to decline by up to 0.29% per litre. COMAC has attributed the adjustment to the performance of the local currency, the cedi, against major foreign currencies, especially the US dollar.
This is also a result of the relatively stable crude oil prices on the international market. On the international market, a barrel of oil fell by about 0.28% from US$70.62.
Diesel fell by 1.22%, LPG recorded 1.80% and prices of petroleum increased by 0.43%.
Some Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) in June, reduced prices of petroleum products at the pumps. Fuel prices have now dropped for the second time this week under the current pricing window for June.
Leading the trend, Star Oil announced on June 19, 2025, that it had slashed its petrol price from GHS10.99 per litre to GHS10.80. Diesel prices at the same outlets have also been cut, moving from GHS12.77 to GHS12.13 per litre.
Looking ahead, Allied Oil has indicated it will implement further reductions beginning June 20. Earlier this month, on June 16, Allied was selling petrol at GHS10.97 per litre, but the new price stands at GHS10.75.
Joining the trend, Zen Petroleum has also reduced its petrol price to GHS10.75. Reports indicate that the reduction in petrol prices is being driven by heightened competition among major OMCs, sparking a price war in the sector.
Introduced in 2015, the government’s Price Deregulation Policy aimed to encourage competition and help bring prices down, beyond global oil market dynamics.
Meanwhile, some OMCs have hinted that pump prices could increase from July 1, 2025, if the conflict between Israel and Iran in the Middle East continues.
Since tensions escalated in the region, crude oil prices have surged from $66 to about $76 per barrel.
Despite this, some industry insiders argue that if the Ghanaian cedi strengthens further in the coming days, it could help absorb the projected 5 percent or more rise in crude prices.
So far, petroleum prices have seen over six reductions this year, with industry data attributing much of the decline to the cedi’s appreciation.
The escalating missile exchanges between Israel and Iran are contributing to rising global crude oil prices, posing a potential threat to Ghana’s fuel costs and overall economic stability.
President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Ministers for Finance and Energy, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson and John Abdulai Jinapor, respectively, to closely monitor the unfolding conflict between Israel and Iran and provide proactive measures to safeguard the country’s recent economic gains from external shocks.
However, the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has assured that the escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel will not affect the oil market.
Speaking to the media, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of COMAC, Dr. Riverson Oppong, noted that when prices go up or down in the world market, it takes some time before those changes are seen in local prices.
A week-old air war escalated with no sign yet of an exit strategy from either side as Israel bombed nuclear targets in Iran on Thursday and Iran fired missiles and drones at Israel after hitting an Israeli hospital overnight.
The White House said President Trump would make a decision as to whether the United States will join the war or not in the next two weeks.
“Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday.
Government has launched new GHS1 Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy on petroleum products.
This move is to settle energy sector shortfalls, reduce legacy debts, and stabilize power supply across the country, following parliamentary approval.
President John Dramani Mahama assented to the levy on June 5, under the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141). GRA had announced earlier implementation of the levy; however, it was postponed after strong opposition from oil marketing companies and transport operators.
Initially set to take effect on Monday, June 9, it was rescheduled to start on Monday, June 16. It was then rescheduled again due to the tensions between Iran and Israel.
According to Tariff Interpretation Order (TIO) No. 2025/003, issued by the GRA, the new levy affects several key fuel products. The levy on petrol (motor spirit, super) and diesel (gas oil) will rise from GHS0.95 and GHS0.93, respectively, to GHS1.95 and GHS1.93 per litre.
Marine gas oil (local) will increase from 0.3 to 0.23, marine gas oil (foreign) from 0.93 to 1.93, and heavy fuel oil by 0.04. However, all cash-and-carry transactions where products are lifted on or after the effective date will attract the revised levies.
Ghanaian actor and Deputy Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), James Gardiner, stressed that he is not interested in sugar mummies for romantic relationships.
He had said in an interview with Nollywire, shared on Instagram on August 17, that he does not frown on dating older women.
However, he clarified that it also doesn’t automatically mean he is interested in sugar mommies.
“I don’t like sugar mommies, ooh,” he clarified.
‘Running to You’ hitmaker Chike also admitted to why he prefers older women over younger ones.
The singer-songwriter and actor from Nigeria made a guest appearance on the Unpack with Nay podcast.
According to Chike, “most” young women “can’t communicate properly”.
In his experience, when one eventually finds “a woman who can communicate, they are slightly advanced in age”.
Revealing what he views as, perhaps, an average young woman, he intimated, “a girl of 23 years” cannot articulate her thoughts and desires.
The artist behind the hit song “Running to You” shared his perspective, highlighting that a significant number of young women are entangled in social media addiction, lack the discretion for a discreet relationship, possess an incomplete understanding of life, and struggle with handling situations in a mature manner.
Expressing his thoughts, he stated, “Imagine I’m involved with a 23-year-old; what complexities can she navigate? What depth can she comprehend? She might just want to take pictures and be on Instagram, broadcasting our relationship to everyone. What meaningful connection can I establish with such an individual?”
Now 30 years old, he acknowledged that there might be exceptions among young women but emphasized that finding such exceptions is genuinely rare.
Chike clarified that his emphasis on peace of mind and compatibility guides his preference for dating older women, a preference reflected in his two most recent relationships.
In a world where age gaps in romantic relationships are often frowned upon, some celebrity couples have broken the mould and found love with older partners.
From Ghanaian actor Van Vicker and his wife Adwoa Hatsiman to Nana Ama McBrown and Maxwell Mawu Mensah, and Captain Planet 4×4 and Uche Ofodile, these couples have defied societal expectations and proved that love knows no age.
And for what it’s worth, these celebrities also happen to have some of the most rock-solid marriages and relationships in entertainment.
Here are three celebrities:
Van Vicker and Adwoa Hatsiman
Van Vicker, a Ghanaian actor, and Adwoa Hatsiman, have been married for over 14 years.
Adwoa is seven months older than Van Vicker, and their age difference is not significant. The couple met in secondary school in Ghana and have been together ever since.
They got married in 2003, and their union has been blessed with three children.
Adwoa Hatsiman: January 24th, 1977Van Vicker: August 1st, 1977
Nana ama McBrown and Maxwell Mawu Mensah
Nana Ama McBrown, a popular Ghanaian actress, married Maxwell Mawu Mensah in a private ceremony in 2016.
Their age difference is approximately six years, with Nana Ama McBrown being the older one. The couple has been together for over five years and has a daughter named Baby Maxin.
Nana Ama McBrown: August 15th, 1977Maxwell Mawu Mensah: August 3rd, 1983
Captain Planet 4×4 and Uche Ofodile
Captain Planet 4×4, a Ghanaian musician, married Uche Ofodile, a Nigerian businesswoman, in 2014.
Uche is 10 years older than Captain Planet, but their age difference has not affected their love for each other.
The couple often shares their love story on social media, and Captain Planet has revealed that his wife has been his biggest inspiration.
Captain Planet: April 28th, 1982Uche Ofodile: May 24th, 1972
The Ghana Music Awards USA 2025 held live live from the Claridge Hotel (ACX1 studios) Atlantic City, New Jersey on Saturday, the 16th of August 2025 was a glamorous
It was a night of excitement which ended with the most anticipated Artiste of the Year spot awarded to gospel musician, Empress Gifty, amongst others.
Asides the ultimate prize, here’s a list of the other 21 categories and the winners who occupied them.
2025 GMAUS: Empress Gifty beats Black Sherif, King Promise, Stonebwoy to win Artiste of the Year
-Gospel Artist of the Year (Ghana): Piesie Esther
-Highlife Artiste of the Year (Ghana): Fameye
-Highlife Song of the Year (Ghana): Aseda by King Paluta
-Emerging Artist of the Year (Ghana): Blakid
-Songwriter of the Year (Ghana): Kofi Kinaata
-Gospel Song of the Year (Ghana): Empress Gifty
USA Categories
-Afro Pop Song of the Year (USA): Sugar by Elizha
-AfroBeat/Afro Pop Artiste of the Year (USA): Jamin Beats
-Gospel Song of the Year (USA): Hear My Cry by Ama Asare
-Gospel Artist of the Year (USA): Royal Mama
-Male Artist of the Year (USA): C Burn
-Most Popular Artist of the Year (USA): Nii Addo
-Rapper of the Year (USA): K Rocks
-Diaspora Act of the Year: Samuel Sey
-New Artist of the Year (USA): Brother Ishmael
-Music Video of the Year (USA): Faithful by Gifty K.
-Music Concert of the Year (USA): “Sherkinab Experience” by Becky Osei
-Hiplife and Hip Pop Song of the Year (USA): “Superstar” by Emperor T Jigah
-Hiplife Artiste of the Year (USA): Ade3f3 Kwakye
-Highlife Song of the Year (USA): Dream Big by Jay Baba
-Hiplife/ Hip Pop Artiste of the Year (USA): Nana NYC
Meanwhile, the event brought together some of Ghana’s finest musicians, producers and key industry players from both home and the diaspora, who gathered to celebrate musical excellence and the ever growing influence of Ghanaian music on the global stage.
The 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards took place on May 10 at the Grand Arena in Accra, and as expected, it was a night full of glamour and celebration.
The event, which is one of the biggest on Ghana’s entertainment calendar, celebrates top musicians from different music styles.
This year’s show featured exciting live performances, award presentations, and standout moments on the red carpet.
Both well-known stars and up-and-coming talents walked away with some of the most respected awards in the industry.
Below is the list of winners so far at the 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards:
Unsung Artsite – Yaw Darling
Best Hiplife Song of the Year – Bad feeling by Tulenkey
Best Male Vocalist – Joe Mettle
Best Female Vocal Performance – I Choose to Praise by Esther Godwyll
Best Highlife Song of the Year – King Paluta
Best Hip-hop Song of the Year – Holy Ghost by Kweku Smoke
Collaboration of the Year – Lomo Lomo by KiDi featuring Black Sherif
International Collaboration of the Year – Doing of the Lord by Diana Hamilton featuring Mercy Chinwo
Best Afropop Song of the Year – Paris by King Promise
Lifetime Achievement Award – Yaw Sarpong
Best Traditional Gospel Song – Watch Me by Empress Gifty
Best Afrobeat Song of the Year – Asylum by Olivetheboy
Best Music Video – Jejereje by Stonebwoy directed by Banini
Gospel Artiste of the Year – Joe Mettle
Producer of the Year – Kendybeats and King Paluta
Best Afrobeat/Afropop Artiste of the Year – King Promise
Best Urban Contemporary Gospel Song of the Year – Defe Defe by Team Eternity
Best New Artiste – Beeztrap
Tulenkey ft. Beeztrap – Best Highlife song of the year
Stonebwoy – Best Reggae/ Dancehall song of the year
King Promise – Best Album EP of the Year
King Paluta – Most popular song of the year
Ayisi – Record of the year and audio engineer of the year
Ghanaian actor and Deputy Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), James Gardiner, has opened up about the caliber of women he may consider for a romantic relationship.
According to him, once there is a connection, the age will not be a challenge for him ot get what he wants.
“It depends… There is this picture we try to give women who are like that. If the person thinks the criteria for who I am looking for, I am not all about looks, by the way. But at least it shouldn’t be like I am with my mother.”
“I don’t really mind if there is a connection. Age isn’t just a number… It is more about the connection. Once there is a strong connection, I don’t think every other thing matters,” he said in an interview with Nollywire shared on Instagram on August 17, 2025.
Chike has admitted why he prefers older women over younger ones.
The singer-songwriter and actor from Nigeria made a guest appearance on the Unpack with Nay podcast.
According to Chike, “most” young women “can’t communicate properly”.
In his experience, when one eventually finds “a woman who can communicate, they are slightly advanced in age”.
Revealing what he views as, perhaps, an average young woman, he intimated, “a girl of 23 years” cannot articulate her thoughts and desires.
The artist behind the hit song “Running to You” shared his perspective, highlighting that a significant number of young women are entangled in social media addiction, lack the discretion for a discreet relationship, possess an incomplete understanding of life, and struggle with handling situations in a mature manner.
Expressing his thoughts, he stated, “Imagine I’m involved with a 23-year-old; what complexities can she navigate? What depth can she comprehend? She might just want to take pictures and be on Instagram, broadcasting our relationship to everyone. What meaningful connection can I establish with such an individual?”
Now 30 years old, he acknowledged that there might be exceptions among young women but emphasized that finding such exceptions is genuinely rare.
Chike clarified that his emphasis on peace of mind and compatibility guides his preference for dating older women, a preference reflected in his two most recent relationships.
In a world where age gaps in romantic relationships are often frowned upon, some celebrity couples have broken the mould and found love with older partners.
From Ghanaian actor Van Vicker and his wife Adwoa Hatsiman to Nana Ama McBrown and Maxwell Mawu Mensah, and Captain Planet 4×4 and Uche Ofodile, these couples have defied societal expectations and proved that love knows no age.
And for what it’s worth, these celebrities also happen to have some of the most rock-solid marriages and relationships in entertainment.
Here are three celebrities:
Van Vicker and Adwoa Hatsiman
Van Vicker, a Ghanaian actor, and Adwoa Hatsiman, have been married for over 14 years.
Adwoa is seven months older than Van Vicker, and their age difference is not significant. The couple met in secondary school in Ghana and have been together ever since.
They got married in 2003, and their union has been blessed with three children.
Adwoa Hatsiman: January 24th, 1977Van Vicker: August 1st, 1977
Nana ama McBrown and Maxwell Mawu Mensah
Nana Ama McBrown, a popular Ghanaian actress, married Maxwell Mawu Mensah in a private ceremony in 2016.
Their age difference is approximately six years, with Nana Ama McBrown being the older one. The couple has been together for over five years and has a daughter named Baby Maxin.
Nana Ama McBrown: August 15th, 1977Maxwell Mawu Mensah: August 3rd, 1983
Captain Planet 4×4 and Uche Ofodile
Captain Planet 4×4, a Ghanaian musician, married Uche Ofodile, a Nigerian businesswoman, in 2014.
Uche is 10 years older than Captain Planet, but their age difference has not affected their love for each other.
The couple often shares their love story on social media, and Captain Planet has revealed that his wife has been his biggest inspiration.
Captain Planet: April 28th, 1982Uche Ofodile: May 24th, 1972
