TIG Post

Author: Amanda Cartey

  • Restore and pay ‘mysteriously erased’ arrears immediately – Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives tells govt

    Restore and pay ‘mysteriously erased’ arrears immediately – Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives tells govt

    The Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives Ghana has urged the government to immediately probe and restore salary arrears it says were removed from its members’ payment vouchers without any payment being made.

    In a statement signed by its Convener, Stephen Kwadwo Takyi, the coalition explained that several affected members had their salary arrears validated on the government payroll system each month, although the monies were not paid.

    The group noted that during the latest validation in February 2026, the accumulated arrears suddenly disappeared from their payment vouchers.

    “We call on the Government of Ghana to act swiftly to investigate this anomaly, restore and pay all unlawfully removed arrears without delay to avoid any action from us,” part of the statement read.

    The coalition further stated that when the matter was brought into the public domain, the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department denied the claims.

    It, however, maintained that its payroll validators and human resource officers across various health facilities have confirmed that the arrears were cleared from the payment vouchers of the affected nurses and midwives without any corresponding payment.

    “Our questions are: who authorized the removal of our legitimately earned arrears and on what legal or administrative basis were these arrears cleared?” the coalition queried in the statement.

    In 2025, members of the Rotational Nurses and Midwives Association of Ghana complained that they had been working without receiving financial clearance, depriving members of their allowance.

    National President of the Association, Ebenezer Boateng, made this known at a press briefing on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 while noting the economic difficulties over hundreds of rotational health workers have had to face.

    In his delivery, he bemoaned the inactivity of the Health Ministry in ensuring their allowances are paid.

    “We’ve been diligently working since May 2024—almost a full year – without receiving financial clearance, thereby depriving us of our rightful allowances.

    “These repeated delays reflect a broader pattern of neglect that has persisted for over four years, with little to no meaningful intervention from the Ministry of Health.”

    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.

  • Ablakwa discloses death of 55 Ghanaians in Russia–Ukraine conflict

    Ablakwa discloses death of 55 Ghanaians in Russia–Ukraine conflict

    Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced that at least 55 Ghanaians have been killed fighting in the war in Ukraine, with two others currently being held as prisoners of war.

    Ukrainian authorities presented the figures during high-level discussions in Kyiv between Ghanaian representatives and Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, intelligence from Ukraine shows that 272 Ghanaians have been drawn into the war since 2022 through cross-border criminal trafficking networks. In addition, wider data shared at the meeting indicated that 1,780 Africans from 36 different countries are suspected to have been recruited in similar ways to fight against Ukraine.

    In a social media post reacting to the revelations, the minister described the development as heartbreaking, stating: “These are not mere statistics; they are Ghanaian lives cut short, and families shattered.”

    He emphasised that Ghana cannot afford to ignore the increasing exploitation of its young people in overseas conflicts.

    “This is not our war. We cannot allow our young people to be used as human shields in a conflict that does not concern Ghana,” he said.

    Signalling a stronger response at home, Mr Ablakwa announced plans to step up public awareness campaigns and take firm action against recruitment syndicates.

    “We are determined to track and dismantle every illegal recruitment scheme operating within our jurisdiction, including those on the dark web,” he stated.

    As part of the trip, Ghanaian officials placed wreaths at Kyiv’s Wall of Remembrance to honour victims of the war and engaged in talks aimed at deepening cooperation between the two countries, especially in the fight against human trafficking and unlawful recruitment.

    Meanwhile, the two detained Ghanaians who were given consular access are said to have warned others back home not to be tempted by offers of money, describing conditions on the battlefield as extremely dangerous.

    Concluding his remarks, Mr Ablakwa noted that measures are being strengthened to safeguard vulnerable youth and stop further loss of Ghanaian lives.

    The minister also disclosed that the two Ghanaian nationals detained in Ukraine are alive and in good health, describing his recent engagement as a major diplomatic breakthrough toward securing their release.

    The Minister revealed that he was granted rare access to a tightly secured detention facility where the two men are being held after being captured in the ongoing war in Ukraine. He described the visit as an important step in efforts to bring them home.

    “I can confirm that our citizens are alive and well. Their rights under international law have been commendably respected by Ukrainian authorities,” Mr Ablakwa stated.

    He expressed appreciation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the country’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha for approving what he characterised as an extraordinary request. The Minister noted that the approval is believed to mark the first time an African foreign minister has been permitted such access.

    According to him, Ukraine’s decision reflects the cordial relations between Accra and Kyiv and strengthens optimism that ongoing negotiations will yield positive results.

    “This significant gesture gives me more confidence that our negotiations for their release will be successful,” he said.

    For security considerations, the identities of the detainees have not been disclosed. However, the Minister indicated that both men have expressed a strong desire to turn their experience into advocacy against human trafficking networks.

    “It is refreshing to hear our two compatriots say that they are determined to become advocates against the modus operandi of trafficking networks and willing to devote the rest of their lives educating vulnerable Africans how to avoid such predicaments,” he added.

    Mr Ablakwa’s visit to Kyiv formed part of wider diplomatic engagements between Ghana and Ukraine. During the trip, he also held discussions with President Zelenskyy, with talks reportedly centred on bilateral cooperation and humanitarian concerns relating to the detained Ghanaians.

    The development signals notable progress in Ghana’s efforts to secure the safe return of its citizens and underscores the government’s commitment to protecting nationals caught up in conflicts beyond its borders.

  • NSA pays January 2026 allowance to National Service Personnel

    NSA pays January 2026 allowance to National Service Personnel

    The National Service Authority (NSA) has announced the payment of the January 2026 allowance to National Service Personnel across the country.

    In a statement signed by its Director-General, Ruth Dela Seddoh, the Authority confirmed that the stipends have been processed and disbursed.

    “The National Service Authority (NSA) is pleased to inform all National Service Personnel (NSP) and the general public that the January 2026 allowance has been successfully processed and paid today, Friday 27th February, 2026.”

    The Authority urged all eligible personnel to check their respective GhanaPay accounts to verify receipt of the funds. It added that measures are being implemented to improve administrative systems in order to ensure greater efficiency and promptness in future payments.

    The NSA further expressed gratitude to National Service Personnel for their commitment and contributions to national development, acknowledging the important role they continue to play in supporting public and private institutions across the country.

    The payment is expected to bring relief to thousands of service personnel who depend on the monthly allowance to support their basic needs during their service year.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    During a press briefing on Monday, March 24, the AG provided an update on the progress of the investigations, revealing significant findings, particularly regarding financial irregularities within the National Service Scheme.

    He disclosed that investigators had gathered substantial evidence pointing to corruption and financial mismanagement within the scheme.

    “I can confirm that investigation will conclude in the National Service and Sky Train scandals by the middle of April for prosecutions to proceed,” he said during a briefing.

    Dr. Ayine further indicated that authorities had traced suspicious financial transactions involving senior officials.

    “In the National Service scandal, eight suspects have been interrogated, and a good number of them have started ‘singing’ literally. We will give you details of their songs at the appropriate time,” he stated.

    Also in June, the office of the A-G revealed that a whopping GHC548,333,542.65 was lost to the criminal enterprise perpetrated by executives, directors, and staff at NSA.

    Providing a breakdown during a press briefing today, June 13, the A-G stated that “In the 2022/2023 service year, 350,926,977.12 was lost to the state. For the 2023/2024 service year, 32,881,157.07 was lost to the republic.”

    He further added, “The criminal enterprise that resulted in the loss of this colossal loss of sum of money involved the creation of ghost names in the NSA payroll system by some directors and staff, which was subsequently exploited to misappropriate state funds for their gain.”

    Former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah, has been named as one of the suspects who will be charged and prosecuted.

    In May, two NSA officials in the Brim North District, Eastern Region, were interdicted by the Authority.

    An official release by the NSA on Wednesday, May 14, found the culprits guilty of their involvement in a “well-orchestrated act of systemic fraud” within the area.

    The NSA explained that the culprits falsified records to approve and process monthly allowances for 78 personnel: at least 29 in the 2024/2025 service year and 49 in the 2023/2024 service year.

    The Authority has noted that the suspension of the district manager and the MIS manager remains in effect pending the outcome of investigations.

    “The Management of the National Service Authority (NSA), through a collaboration with a whistleblower, has uncovered a well-orchestrated act of systemic fraud involving the District Manager and the MIS Manager in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.

    “During a meeting convened this morning, both individuals were presented with substantial evidence of their misconduct. In further discussions the two officers admitted to their direct involvement in the fraudulent activity. As a result, the Management of the Authority has interdicted the two officers, pending further investigations,” parts of the release read.

    The Attorney-General has pledged to uphold justice by ensuring that all individuals involved are held accountable and made to answer before the law.

    “No individual found culpable will be shielded from accountability,” he assured.

  • SONA 2026: Mahama announces imminent launch of new National Airline

    SONA 2026: Mahama announces imminent launch of new National Airline

    President John Mahama has announced fresh progress toward the re-establishment of a national airline, stating that concrete steps have been taken to ensure the initiative becomes a reality.

    Delivering the State of the Nation Address in Parliament, the President revealed that a ten-member taskforce set up to oversee the process has completed its work and submitted a detailed business model together with an operational framework.

    The documents, he explained, will guide the government in selecting a credible strategic partner to run the new national carrier.

    “In fulfilment of my pledge to re-establish a national airline, a ten member taskforce established to oversee this initiative has submitted a business model and operational framework to guide the selection of a strategic partner for the new national airline. And this new national airline will take off soon. Isha Allah,” President Mahama stated.

    He indicated that the creation of a new national airline forms part of a broader plan to strengthen Ghana’s aviation sector, boost tourism, create jobs, and position the country as a key aviation hub in West Africa.

    The President also highlighted growth in air travel, pointing to increased passenger numbers handled by the Ghana Airports Company Limited. According to him, passenger traffic rose to 3.625 million in 2025, up from 3.4 million recorded in 2024.

    “Mr Speaker, passenger traffic handled by the Ghana Airport Company, increased to 3.625 million passengers in 2025 from 3.4 million in 2024,” he added.

    The rise in passenger movement, he noted, demonstrates renewed confidence in Ghana’s aviation industry and underscores the importance of establishing a national airline to meet growing demand. He expressed optimism that once operational, the airline would enhance connectivity, facilitate trade and investment, and contribute significantly to national development.

    Barely a week after the government announced the reversal of the International Airport to its original name, Accra International Airport, it has formally done so.

    This was announced in a formal statement dated February 3 by the Transport Ministry and released today, Monday, 23. The statement read,

    “The Ministry hereby informs the general public that the Government of Ghana has officially reverted the name of Kotoka International Airport to its original name, Accra International Airport. The facility was originally known as Accra International Airport before its redesignation. The government has considered it appropriate to restore the Airport to its former and internationally recognised name”.

    It continued that the name change would not affect operations or any existing travel arrangements; however, it will involve the systematic update of official documentation, statutory instruments where necessary, airport signage, digital platforms, aviation publications, and related communication materials.

    “This change will not affect airport operations, safety standards, or international travel arrangements. Notably, within the records of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the airport code has remained “ACC”.

    Consequently, the Minister urged the general public and all other stakeholders to comply with the relevant authorities for a seamless transition.

    “ The general public, stakeholders, and international partners are kindly requested to support and cooperate with the relevant authorities to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. The Ministry appreciates the continued cooperation of all stakeholders”, the statement noted.

    About Kotoka and the redesignation to Accra International Airport

    The renaming of Accra International Airport to Kotoka International Airport was done in 1969, after it was opened in 1961, when the then military government redesignated the facility in honour of Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, a Ghanaian army officer who played a key role in the 1966 coup that overthrew President Kwame Nkrumah.

    The airport originally served as a military base for the British Royal Air Force during World War II before being handed over to civilian authorities. In 1956, under President Kwame Nkrumah, a project was launched to convert the site into a passenger terminal.

    The project was completed in 1958, transforming the former military installation into a civilian airport capable of handling about 500,000 passengers a year.

    Article image 1

    The renaming was announced on February 3 by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga during a parliamentary leadership briefing, noting that the Minister for Transport, Joseph Nikpe, was going to present a bill in Parliament to legally effect the name change.

    The proposed name change is intended to honour the Ga people, reclaim Ghana’s historical identity, and reflect democratic values other than glorifying a coup leader, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, a military officer who played a central role in the 1966 coup d’état that overthrew Ghana’s first president, Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

    He explained that the airport was originally called Accra International Airport, but its name was later changed.

    “It is not fair to the people of Accra that they gave out their land for the construction of an airport that was named after them, and the one who received the land changed it and named it with his name,” he said.

    “To honour the people who gave the land, government is going back to using it,” he added.

    Minority reacts to name change

    However, some members of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, including its leader, Afenyo-Markin. Speaking during a media engagement yesterday, February 3, he defended the current name of the airport and criticised the decision to rename it.

    On his part, the name “Kotoka” is among the very few names on national monuments, such as the airport, that celebrate the heroism of Voltarians; therefore, renaming it would deny the people of the Volta Region the recognition they deserve.

    He said, “All these years, we’ve had General Kotoka’s name on the airport, and suddenly it’s being changed. The name Kotoka International Airport, Accra, is already there, so you don’t need to remove Kotoka’s name.

    “How many prominent Voltarians have their names on national assets or monuments? This is the only thing the people of Volta can also see as something that recognises heroism from the Volta Region, and they’re being denied.”

    He added that successive governments had retained the name and accused current NDC leaders from the Volta Region of remaining silent on the issue.

    He described the move as an indictment of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and urged key figures within the party, particularly those from the Volta Region, to oppose the proposal.

    “Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, NDC General Secretary Fifi Kwetey, Foreign Affairs Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa, First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor, they’re from Volta, they’re in government and are watching Volta lose its pride. It’s up to them,” he said.

    In February last year, the Democracy Hub, in partnership with the Convention People’s Party (CPP), took legal action at the Supreme Court to push for a change in the name of Ghana’s international airport, Kotoka.

    They asserted that associating the facility with Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka goes against the country’s democratic values, as he was instrumental in the 1966 government takeover.

    “For 59 years, Ghana has lived with the contradiction of denouncing coups while honouring one of the architects of the first military overthrow of an elected government,” the group stated.

    The CPP and advocacy group Democracy Hub contended that the continued use of Kotoka’s name for the country’s main airport represents an official approval of military takeovers. They argue that renaming the facility would reinforce Ghana’s dedication to democratic governance.

    “It is time for Ghana to make a clear statement that it stands against unconstitutional rule, not just in rhetoric but in practice,” the statement added.

    This court case, initiated with the support of legal professionals from Merton & Everett LLP, follows in-depth historical and legal examinations.

    Democracy Hub appealed to civic organizations, youth movements, and champions of democracy to endorse the lawsuit, describing it as “more than a legal battle—this is about confronting our history.”

    Prominent among those calling for the airport’s name to be changed back is Samia Yaba Christina Nkrumah, daughter of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah. She has repeatedly suggested that the facility should return to its original name, Accra International Airport.

  • SONA 2026: Watch Minority MPs brandish cocoa pods in parliament

    SONA 2026: Watch Minority MPs brandish cocoa pods in parliament

    Cocoa pods unexpectedly became the center of political tension in Parliament on Friday, February 28, as Minority Members held a symbolic demonstration just before the President delivered the State of the Nation Address (SONA).

    The dramatic scenes took place immediately after the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, invited President John Mahama to speak to the House.

    Majority MPs responded with a celebratory Twi chant — “Ɔde asɛmpa na aba oo, Ɔde asɛmpa na aba ooo (He has brought good news). The chant included references to the government’s proposed “24-Hour Economy,” a plan designed to increase productivity and drive economic growth.

    In response, the Minority group quickly began their own chant, changing the final line to “atɔ nsuom” — literally meaning “it has fallen into water,” a phrase often used to indicate failure.

    However, it was not the musical exchange that captured the most attention. In a bold visual statement, Minority MPs displayed cocoa pods in the chamber, focusing attention on what they describe as a worsening situation in Ghana’s cocoa sector.

    Cocoa remains one of Ghana’s most vital exports and a key part of the national economy. The crop provides livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of farmers and continues to be an important source of foreign currency.

    By bringing cocoa pods into Parliament, the Minority aimed to draw attention to concerns about declining production, financial difficulties in the sector, and the wider economic impact of the slump.

    The protest by the Minority indicates growing dissatisfaction with how these challenges are being handled, especially as the government promotes a narrative of economic recovery and reform.

    While the Majority’s song portrayed the President’s speech as delivering “good news,” the cocoa pods acted as a silent but forceful response — a reminder, according to the Minority, that key parts of the economy are still facing serious problems.

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

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

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

    Article image 1

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

    They are demanding an upward review of the prices and expedited processing to ensure the settlement of outstanding payments owed to them by Licensed Buying Companies operating under COCOBOD’s supervision.

    “The prices were not reduced under the previous regimes; why is this administration reducing them. We have no problem with the government; they should just leave the prices to remain the same,” a frustrated woman told journalists.

    According to the farmers, delays in payment and the recent downward adjustment in cocoa prices have made it increasingly difficult to cover basic household needs, including school fees, healthcare, and farm maintenance.

    “We depend entirely on cocoa. When payments are delayed, or prices drop, our families suffer,” one protester said, adding that many farmers are struggling to prepare for the next crop season due to a lack of funds.

    Article image 2

    The demonstration at COCOBOD headquarters follows similar protests in cocoa-growing regions, particularly in the Western North Region, where farmers marched through major towns to protest the reduced farmgate price.

    The unrest comes amid broader challenges facing Ghana’s cocoa sector, including global price volatility, declining output in some regions, and financial pressures on COCOBOD.

    Meanwhile, the new cocoa producer prices set by the government for the remainder of the 2025/26 cocoa season took effect on Friday, February 13.

    This was confirmed in a statement issued to the Ghana News Agency on Tuesday, which indicated that the new price would apply to all cocoa purchased nationwide.

    The statement mentioned that under the revised prices, the producer price to be paid at all buying centres is GH¢1,241.76 per load of 30 kilograms of Grade I and II cocoa beans, naked ex-scale.

    It continued that the newly approved price per bag of 64 kilograms gross is GH¢2,587.00, adding that a tonne of cocoa, comprising 16 bags, now attracts a total payment of GH¢41,392.00.

    Although COCOBOD has announced payments to Licensed Buying Companies to facilitate farmer payments, many producers say the relief has yet to reach them at the farmgate level.

    Barely a week ago, COCOBOD announced a salary cut for some staff members and top management as part of efforts to resolve its cash flow challenges.

    The announcement was contained in a formal press release issued by the Chief Executive, Dr. Ransford A. Abbey, and dated Monday, February 16.

    Article image 3

    The release noted that the cuts would take effect on the same day the announcement was made, explaining that the leaders of the government’s cocoa-regulating agency would bear the reductions for the remainder of the 2025/26 crop year.

    According to the statement, “The Executive Management and the Senior Staff of COCOBOD have, effective today, Monday, February 16, 2026, reduced their salaries for the remainder of the 2025/26 crop year in recognition of the current liquidity challenges in the cocoa industry.”

    It continued, “The Executive Management has taken a twenty (20) percent cut, while the Senior Staff have taken a ten (10) percent reduction in their respective salaries,” as part of a broader cost-containment measure aimed at aligning expenditure with revenue.

    https://youtube.com/watch?v=DHirbO_VuNM%3Frel%3D0%26modestbranding%3D1

    Management indicated that additional steps, “other cost-cutting measures in procurement and a staff rationalisation exercise, are aimed at reducing the overall expenditure of COCOBOD and aligning costs with revenue.”

    Meanwhile, the statement did not disclose how much the salary cuts would save the sector or the size of the liquidity gap.

    The announcement comes at a time of heightened strain in the cocoa industry, marked by rising operational costs, financing pressures, concerns over farmer welfare, and intensified public scrutiny over cocoa pricing and COCOBOD’s financial position.

    In recent weeks, the sector has been at the centre of national debate, particularly over producer prices and the sustainability of cocoa farming.

    Article image 4

    Industry observers have also pointed to the heavy financing burden associated with cocoa purchases, operational commitments, and exposure to global price volatility.

    Last year, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) announced that it would not secure any syndicated loan to finance cocoa purchases for the 2025/26 crop season.

    According to them, the shortage of cocoa beans at the global level informed such a decision.

    “We’re not doing syndication…this year [2025], we’re not doing syndication. What has necessitated us not to do syndication is that we’re experiencing a global shortage of the cocoa bean,” he said.

    He made these remarks during an interview with Accra-based radio station Citi FM on Monday, August 4. The Head of Public Affairs at COCOBOD, Jerome Kwaku Sam, explicitly stated that the Board had not sought syndicated financing for the 2024/2025 season and had no intention of doing so this year.

    “…To be very honest, last year [2024], we didn’t do syndication, and this year [2025], we’re not doing syndication.”

    Mr. Sam further noted that the move also reflects a strategic effort to reduce costs under prevailing market conditions.

    “We’re not doing syndication whereby we’re going to incur additional expenses and what have you. That is out of the system or table for now,” he emphasised.

  • SONA 2026: Ghana’s GDP expected hit $113bn in 2025 – President Mahama

    SONA 2026: Ghana’s GDP expected hit $113bn in 2025 – President Mahama

    President John Mahama has announced that Ghana’s economy has grown significantly, with a $113 billion Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2025. This, President Mahama noted, marks a sharp increase from $83 billion at the end of 2024.

    According to President Mahama, this economic growth places Ghana among the top 10 largest economies in Africa, reflecting the nation’s rising influence on the continent.

    “Mr Speaker, our economy has grown significantly, in 2025, Ghana’s GDP is expected to reach one hundred and thirteen billion dollars. An increase from eighty-three bilion dollars at the end of 2024. This has placed Ghana among the top 10 largest economy in Africa ,” President Mahama said while delivering State of The Nation address in Parliament today, Friday, February, 2026.

    Bank of Ghana (BoG) announced a 6.3% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of 2025. While acknowledging the global financial pressures, the BoG governor, Johnson Pandit Asiama, speaking during the 126th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held on September 15, stated that Ghana has seen a 1.0% growth in GDP from the previous 5.3% in the first quarter.

    “Ghana’s recovery is gaining momentum even as the global environment remains uncertain. Worldwide, growth is easing, and financial conditions are still tight amid trade tensions and geopolitical risks; yet domestically, improved fundamentals have strengthened confidence in our outlook. Real activity has firmed. Provisional data show GDP growth accelerated to 6.3 percent in Q2 2025, led by services and agriculture, with non-oil GDP expanding by 7.8 percent,” Dr Asiamah stated.

    According to him, some short-term economic measurements (called high-frequency indicators) show that the economy is still growing. Among the short-term measurements, the Bank of Ghana’s Composite Index of Economic Activity was 6.1% higher in July than it was a year earlier.

    “High-frequency indicators confirm this momentum: the Bank’s Composite Index of Economic Activity was up 6.1 percent year-on-year in July, and recent PMI readings alongside our business and consumer Surveys point to improving sentiment,” he stated.

    In his update, he also touched on inflation, stating that it has gone down from the previous 12.1% in July to 11.5% in August, marking a 0.6 percentage point drop in just one month, marking the eighth consecutive month of decline and the lowest inflation rate since October 2021. He added that, even though there was a decline in remittance, the cedi remains one of the strongest-performing currencies on the global level.

    “On the price front, headline inflation fell further to 11.5 percent in August, its lowest since October 2021, supported by a tight monetary stance, fiscal consolidation, and better food supplies; core measures and expectations continue to re-anchor. External buffers have strengthened. For the first eight months of the year, Ghana recorded a trade surplus of US$6.2 billion, underpinned by robust gold exports and higher cocoa receipts.

    “Gross international reserves stood at US$10.7 billion in August, covering about 4½ months of imports. Despite seasonal pressures and a moderation in remittance inflows in recent weeks, the cedi remains among the strongest currencies globally year-to-date, appreciating by about 21 per cent as of September 12.

    “It now ranks alongside high performers such as the Russian ruble, Swedish krona, Norwegian krone, Swiss franc, Euro, and British pound. This outperformance reflects prudent monetary policy, effective liquidity management, fiscal consolidation, and increased foreign exchange inflows,” he stressed.

    The Bank of Ghana in late July projected that inflation was likely to decline further and fall within the medium-term target range of 6 to 10 percent during the third quarter of 2025, ahead of earlier expectations.

    According to a statement released by the Chairman of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) and Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, on July 30, 2025, macroeconomic conditions saw a significant improvement, inflation expectations were broadly anchored, external buffers were strengthened, and confidence in the economy was returning.

    “The July forecast also shows that headline inflation is expected to decline further in the third quarter of 2025 and trend within the medium-term target of 8±2 percent by the end of 2025, earlier than initial projections,” the statement indicated.

    It further explained that the external sector outlook was positive, anchored on favourable commodity prices and improved remittance inflows, despite the resumption of external debt service, adding that the cedi has further strengthened against major trading currencies on the back of the strong external sector performance and increased reserve accumulation.

    Meanwhile, the BoG cautioned that there are upside risks to the inflation outlook, which include potential supply chain challenges emanating from the global trade tensions, and upward adjustment in utility tariffs.This notwithstanding, the central bank maintained that the impact of these risks on inflation is expected to be offset by an appropriately tight monetary policy stance and continued fiscal consolidation.

    The IMF projects a decrease in global inflation while predicting slower 2025 economic growth in the U.S. and other regions.

    The Bretton Woods institution attributed this anticipated improvement to the debt restructuring programme implemented by the erstwhile government, noting its positive impact in placing the country on a path toward debt sustainability.

    During the IMF press briefing held on September 11 in Washington, D.C., the Director of Communications, Julie Kozack, responded to a journalist’s question on Ghana’s debt sustainability and the impact of the restructuring agreement. She explained that Ghana’s “debt service indicators” have improved significantly because of the restructuring.

    According to her, this development provides the country with greater space to recover economically and channel resources into key investments.“The recent restructuring agreement has significantly improved debt service indicators for Ghana, and that has created more space for economic recovery and also much-needed investments in the economy,” she stated.

    Kozack added that IMF research indicates Ghana’s public debt will decline from about 82% of GDP in 2022 to around 60% in 2025, describing the trend as a “fairly steep reduction” that demonstrates progress toward fiscal stability.“

    According to our latest assessment, public debt is expected to fall fairly sharply from 82% in 2022. We estimate or project that it will reach 60% of GDP in 2025. That is a fairly steep reduction in public debt and marks a significant step toward durably restoring fiscal sustainability,” she said.Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced a 6.3% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of 2025. While acknowledging the global financial pressures, the BoG governor, Johnson Pandit Asiama, speaking during the 126th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held on September 15, stated that Ghana has seen a 1.0% growth in GDP from the previous 5.3% in the first quarter.

    “Ghana’s recovery is gaining momentum even as the global environment remains uncertain. Worldwide, growth is easing, and financial conditions are still tight amid trade tensions and geopolitical risks; yet domestically, improved fundamentals have strengthened confidence in our outlook. Real activity has firmed. Provisional data show GDP growth accelerated to 6.3 percent in Q2 2025, led by services and agriculture, with non-oil GDP expanding by 7.8 percent,” Dr Asiamah stated.

    According to him, some short-term economic measurements (called high-frequency indicators) show that the economy is still growing. Among the short-term measurements, the Bank of Ghana’s Composite Index of Economic Activity was 6.1% higher in July than it was a year earlier.

    “High-frequency indicators confirm this momentum: the Bank’s Composite Index of Economic Activity was up 6.1 percent year-on-year in July, and recent PMI readings alongside our business and consumer Surveys point to improving sentiment,” he stated.

    In his update, he also touched on inflation, stating that it has gone down from the previous 12.1% in July to 11.5% in August, marking a 0.6 percentage point drop in just one month, marking the eighth consecutive month of decline and the lowest inflation rate since October 2021. He added that, even though there was a decline in remittance, the cedi remains one of the strongest-performing currencies on the global level.

    “On the price front, headline inflation fell further to 11.5 percent in August, its lowest since October 2021, supported by a tight monetary stance, fiscal consolidation, and better food supplies; core measures and expectations continue to re-anchor. External buffers have strengthened. For the first eight months of the year, Ghana recorded a trade surplus of US$6.2 billion, underpinned by robust gold exports and higher cocoa receipts.

    “Gross international reserves stood at US$10.7 billion in August, covering about 4½ months of imports. Despite seasonal pressures and a moderation in remittance inflows in recent weeks, the cedi remains among the strongest currencies globally year-to-date, appreciating by about 21 per cent as of September 12.

    “It now ranks alongside high performers such as the Russian ruble, Swedish krona, Norwegian krone, Swiss franc, Euro, and British pound. This outperformance reflects prudent monetary policy, effective liquidity management, fiscal consolidation, and increased foreign exchange inflows,” he stressed.

    The Bank of Ghana in late July projected that inflation was likely to decline further and fall within the medium-term target range of 6 to 10 percent during the third quarter of 2025, ahead of earlier expectations.

    According to a statement released by the Chairman of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) and Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, on July 30, 2025, macroeconomic conditions saw a significant improvement, inflation expectations were broadly anchored, external buffers were strengthened, and confidence in the economy was returning.

    “The July forecast also shows that headline inflation is expected to decline further in the third quarter of 2025 and trend within the medium-term target of 8±2 percent by the end of 2025, earlier than initial projections,” the statement indicated.

    It further explained that the external sector outlook was positive, anchored on favourable commodity prices and improved remittance inflows, despite the resumption of external debt service, adding that the cedi has further strengthened against major trading currencies on the back of the strong external sector performance and increased reserve accumulation.

    Meanwhile, the BoG cautioned that there are upside risks to the inflation outlook, which include potential supply chain challenges emanating from the global trade tensions, and upward adjustment in utility tariffs.This notwithstanding, the central bank maintained that the impact of these risks on inflation is expected to be offset by an appropriately tight monetary policy stance and continued fiscal consolidation.

    The IMF projects a decrease in global inflation while predicting slower 2025 economic growth in the U.S. and other regions.

    The Bretton Woods institution attributed this anticipated improvement to the debt restructuring programme implemented by the erstwhile government, noting its positive impact in placing the country on a path toward debt sustainability.

    During the IMF press briefing held on September 11 in Washington, D.C., the Director of Communications, Julie Kozack, responded to a journalist’s question on Ghana’s debt sustainability and the impact of the restructuring agreement. She explained that Ghana’s “debt service indicators” have improved significantly because of the restructuring.

    According to her, this development provides the country with greater space to recover economically and channel resources into key investments.“The recent restructuring agreement has significantly improved debt service indicators for Ghana, and that has created more space for economic recovery and also much-needed investments in the economy,” she stated.

    Kozack added that IMF research indicates Ghana’s public debt will decline from about 82% of GDP in 2022 to around 60% in 2025, describing the trend as a “fairly steep reduction” that demonstrates progress toward fiscal stability.“

    According to our latest assessment, public debt is expected to fall fairly sharply from 82% in 2022. We estimate or project that it will reach 60% of GDP in 2025. That is a fairly steep reduction in public debt and marks a significant step toward durably restoring fiscal sustainability,” she said.Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced a 6.3% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of 2025. While acknowledging the global financial pressures, the BoG governor, Johnson Pandit Asiama, speaking during the 126th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held on September 15, stated that Ghana has seen a 1.0% growth in GDP from the previous 5.3% in the first quarter.

    “Ghana’s recovery is gaining momentum even as the global environment remains uncertain. Worldwide, growth is easing, and financial conditions are still tight amid trade tensions and geopolitical risks; yet domestically, improved fundamentals have strengthened confidence in our outlook. Real activity has firmed. Provisional data show GDP growth accelerated to 6.3 percent in Q2 2025, led by services and agriculture, with non-oil GDP expanding by 7.8 percent,” Dr Asiamah stated.

    According to him, some short-term economic measurements (called high-frequency indicators) show that the economy is still growing. Among the short-term measurements, the Bank of Ghana’s Composite Index of Economic Activity was 6.1% higher in July than it was a year earlier.

    “High-frequency indicators confirm this momentum: the Bank’s Composite Index of Economic Activity was up 6.1 percent year-on-year in July, and recent PMI readings alongside our business and consumer Surveys point to improving sentiment,” he stated.

    In his update, he also touched on inflation, stating that it has gone down from the previous 12.1% in July to 11.5% in August, marking a 0.6 percentage point drop in just one month, marking the eighth consecutive month of decline and the lowest inflation rate since October 2021. He added that, even though there was a decline in remittance, the cedi remains one of the strongest-performing currencies on the global level.

    “On the price front, headline inflation fell further to 11.5 percent in August, its lowest since October 2021, supported by a tight monetary stance, fiscal consolidation, and better food supplies; core measures and expectations continue to re-anchor. External buffers have strengthened. For the first eight months of the year, Ghana recorded a trade surplus of US$6.2 billion, underpinned by robust gold exports and higher cocoa receipts.

    “Gross international reserves stood at US$10.7 billion in August, covering about 4½ months of imports. Despite seasonal pressures and a moderation in remittance inflows in recent weeks, the cedi remains among the strongest currencies globally year-to-date, appreciating by about 21 per cent as of September 12.

    “It now ranks alongside high performers such as the Russian ruble, Swedish krona, Norwegian krone, Swiss franc, Euro, and British pound. This outperformance reflects prudent monetary policy, effective liquidity management, fiscal consolidation, and increased foreign exchange inflows,” he stressed.

    The Bank of Ghana in late July projected that inflation was likely to decline further and fall within the medium-term target range of 6 to 10 percent during the third quarter of 2025, ahead of earlier expectations.

    According to a statement released by the Chairman of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) and Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, on July 30, 2025, macroeconomic conditions saw a significant improvement, inflation expectations were broadly anchored, external buffers were strengthened, and confidence in the economy was returning.

    “The July forecast also shows that headline inflation is expected to decline further in the third quarter of 2025 and trend within the medium-term target of 8±2 percent by the end of 2025, earlier than initial projections,” the statement indicated.

    It further explained that the external sector outlook was positive, anchored on favourable commodity prices and improved remittance inflows, despite the resumption of external debt service, adding that the cedi has further strengthened against major trading currencies on the back of the strong external sector performance and increased reserve accumulation.

    Meanwhile, the BoG cautioned that there are upside risks to the inflation outlook, which include potential supply chain challenges emanating from the global trade tensions, and upward adjustment in utility tariffs.This notwithstanding, the central bank maintained that the impact of these risks on inflation is expected to be offset by an appropriately tight monetary policy stance and continued fiscal consolidation.

    The IMF projects a decrease in global inflation while predicting slower 2025 economic growth in the U.S. and other regions.

    The Bretton Woods institution attributed this anticipated improvement to the debt restructuring programme implemented by the erstwhile government, noting its positive impact in placing the country on a path toward debt sustainability.

    During the IMF press briefing held on September 11 in Washington, D.C., the Director of Communications, Julie Kozack, responded to a journalist’s question on Ghana’s debt sustainability and the impact of the restructuring agreement. She explained that Ghana’s “debt service indicators” have improved significantly because of the restructuring.

    According to her, this development provides the country with greater space to recover economically and channel resources into key investments.“The recent restructuring agreement has significantly improved debt service indicators for Ghana, and that has created more space for economic recovery and also much-needed investments in the economy,” she stated.

    Kozack added that IMF research indicates Ghana’s public debt will decline from about 82% of GDP in 2022 to around 60% in 2025, describing the trend as a “fairly steep reduction” that demonstrates progress toward fiscal stability.“

    According to our latest assessment, public debt is expected to fall fairly sharply from 82% in 2022. We estimate or project that it will reach 60% of GDP in 2025. That is a fairly steep reduction in public debt and marks a significant step toward durably restoring fiscal sustainability,” she said.

  • Ghanaians held in Ukrainian prisons are safe and in stable condition – Ablakwa confirms

    Ghanaians held in Ukrainian prisons are safe and in stable condition – Ablakwa confirms

    Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that the two Ghanaian nationals detained in Ukraine are alive and in good health, describing his recent engagement as a major diplomatic breakthrough toward securing their release.

    The Minister revealed that he was granted rare access to a tightly secured detention facility where the two men are being held after being captured in the ongoing war in Ukraine. He described the visit as an important step in efforts to bring them home.

    “I can confirm that our citizens are alive and well. Their rights under international law have been commendably respected by Ukrainian authorities,” Mr Ablakwa stated.

    He expressed appreciation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the country’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha for approving what he characterised as an extraordinary request. The Minister noted that the approval is believed to mark the first time an African foreign minister has been permitted such access.

    According to him, Ukraine’s decision reflects the cordial relations between Accra and Kyiv and strengthens optimism that ongoing negotiations will yield positive results.

    “This significant gesture gives me more confidence that our negotiations for their release will be successful,” he said.

    For security considerations, the identities of the detainees have not been disclosed. However, the Minister indicated that both men have expressed a strong desire to turn their experience into advocacy against human trafficking networks.

    “It is refreshing to hear our two compatriots say that they are determined to become advocates against the modus operandi of trafficking networks and willing to devote the rest of their lives educating vulnerable Africans how to avoid such predicaments,” he added.

    Mr Ablakwa’s visit to Kyiv formed part of wider diplomatic engagements between Ghana and Ukraine. During the trip, he also held discussions with President Zelenskyy, with talks reportedly centred on bilateral cooperation and humanitarian concerns relating to the detained Ghanaians.

    The development signals notable progress in Ghana’s efforts to secure the safe return of its citizens and underscores the government’s commitment to protecting nationals caught up in conflicts beyond its borders.

  • God launched me into acting after I was sacked from the university – Daniel Etim Effiong

    God launched me into acting after I was sacked from the university – Daniel Etim Effiong

    Nollywood actor Daniel Etim Effiong has narrated how God launched him in the world of acting after being expelled from the Federal University of Technology – Minna  as an engineering student.

    “I was at the University of Technology in Minna, and I didn’t know how I was going to move from this engineering major to the arts. I knew nothing but acting in church. One day I was praying about it in the field. We used to go to the field in FUT Minna to pray, and I heard the Lord say to me that you would make films,” he shared in an interview with Flame TV.

    According to him, the situation took a toll on him as he struggled to understand how that promise could materialise.

    “I was like, how would these things be? Immediately he gave me another word. He said the way the bones are formed in the womb of a mother, the way a baby is born in the womb of the mother – you do not know. So you do not know the way of God. You don’t know how the spirit of God will bring these things to pass, but it will come to pass.”

    Shortly afterward, things shifted dramatically. Effiong recounted that in his first semester at the 300 level, the university released a list of 150 students accused of cult involvement who were to be dismissed, and his name was among them.

    “The school came up with a list of 150 cult members to be expelled from the university. My name miraculously found its way on the list. It was just me and God. My friends had exams to write, so everyone was like, ‘Daniel, this is so terrible but I will be back with you; I have to go study for the exam,’ he explained.

    He explained that his parents hurried to the school to get answers, only to be informed that he would undergo disciplinary hearings.

    Amid the uncertainty, Effiong discovered an audition form for the second season of Amstel Malta Box Office, a Nigerian reality show that trains performers, and chose to apply.

    “While all of that was happening, I saw a reality TV show form, and I picked it up. I watched season one and thought maybe I should apply for season two. I just filled out the form,” he said. Immediately after I got expelled from school, I got invited for an audition. It was like a dream.”

    He progressed through multiple stages of selection.

    “They shortlisted 20 of us from all across Nigeria. After that they shortlisted 10 people to go into the show, and I made the shortlist of 10 housemates,” he recalled. “On that show, we were trained in acting, dancing, performance and singing.”

    Reflecting on it now, Effiong, the director of Nigeria’s hit 2025 film The Herd, believes that the setback turned out to be the answer to his earlier prayers.

    “At the back of my head, I knew it was an answer to prayers. I knew it was God leading me, but everything was happening so fast. It was like a dream. It did not feel real at all. It was years later that it occurred to me that this is the way the spirit of the Lord was leading me to bring this thing to pass. But I could not see it at the time.”

    Now, Daniel Etim Effiong is seen as one of Nollywood’s top actors, recognized for his roles in both movies and TV shows. His journey shows how creative careers can be unpredictable and how challenges can sometimes lead to unexpected opportunities.

    He once shared that, although he briefly engaged in womanizing – an act not accepted by many due to morality—he considers it part of his personal growth.

    The actor who doubles as an engineer said he eventually realized that toeing the path of womanizing was not going to bring him the fulfillment he desired.

    Etim-Effiong explained that, while it may seem fun to be a “player,” the habit can negatively affect one’s ability to commit in the future.

    “Maybe there was a period in my life that I was,” he admitted. “I wouldn’t say for long, but they were periods of learning.”

    “If you develop that lifestyle, it won’t automatically change overnight,” he said. “When you get married, that muscle hasn’t been developed. So when you face challenges, you may feel like walking away instead of working through it.”

    He now uses his experience to advise philanderers, emphasizing the importance of building healthy relationship habits early.

    Another celebrity in Ghana’s entertainment industry, Incredible Zigi, who is a dancer, also revealed that he used to date numerous women in the early days of his dancing career.

    During an interview with the media, he admitted to his past as a Casanova but expressed that he has now chosen to change his ways.

    “I used to date a lot of women earlier in my career but when you get to a certain stage you want to keep a solid brand so such women issues just don’t get your attention anymore. You can’t just be playing around like you used to because womanizing wouldn’t take you anywhere but I used to womanize when I started dancing.”

    Incredible Zigi emphasized that he has successfully abandoned such behaviors, acknowledging that they were merely “time-wasters.”

    He has learned from his past and has now chosen to focus on more meaningful aspects of his life and career.

    “But this is not the time to waste time and energy chasing after women so as for me I’ve paused those kinds of behaviors some years back,” he disclosed.

  • Ablakwa gains uncommon access to Ghana’s two detainees captured in the Ukraine conflict, advocates for their release

    Ablakwa gains uncommon access to Ghana’s two detainees captured in the Ukraine conflict, advocates for their release

    Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has gained uncommon access to two Ghanaians captured in the war in Ukraine, calling the visit an important diplomatic achievement in the ongoing process to secure their freedom.

    He revealed that he was allowed to enter a heavily guarded detention centre where the two men are being kept. He expressed gratitude to Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, for approving what he described as an unusual request — believed to be the first time such access has been granted to an African foreign minister.

    “I can confirm that our citizens are alive and well. Their rights under international law have been commendably respected by Ukrainian authorities,” Mr Ablakwa stated.

    He said the decision by the Ukrainian authorities to allow the visit shows the strong and friendly ties between Ghana and Ukraine. According to him, the gesture also increases hope that the ongoing talks for the men’s release will end successfully.

    “This significant gesture gives me more confidence that our negotiations for their release will be successful,” he said.

    The names of the two detainees have not been made public for security reasons. Still, the minister shared that both men are determined to use their experience to help others avoid similar situations.

    “It is refreshing to hear our two compatriots say that they are determined to become advocates against the modus operandi of trafficking networks and willing to devote the rest of their lives educating vulnerable Africans how to avoid such predicaments,” he added.

    Mr Ablakwa’s trip to Kyiv was part of broader diplomatic discussions between Ghana and Ukraine. During the visit, he also met with President Zelenskyy. The talks reportedly focused on cooperation between the two countries and humanitarian issues concerning the detained Ghanaians.

    This latest development represents meaningful progress in Ghana’s efforts to bring its citizens home safely and highlights the government’s resolve to protect Ghanaians affected by conflicts abroad.

  • 24-Hour Economy to drive higher electricity demand; more capacity needed to sustain 2027–2029 — PURC Boss

    24-Hour Economy to drive higher electricity demand; more capacity needed to sustain 2027–2029 — PURC Boss

    The Executive Secretary of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), Dr Shaffic Suleman, has announced that  government’s proposed 24-hour economy policy will drive higher electricity demand.

    Despite the availability of power currently, Dr Shaffic Suleman says there is a need for expanding generation capacity.

    “Power is available, so all we need to do now is to think of how best or how fast we can get additional capacity to come in and supplement, especially going towards 2027 to 29,” he said on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday January 25, 2026

    Electricity consumers in the country are using more power than the expected 8 percent yearly growth rate.

    This is an indication that the economy is improving and power supply has become more stable, according to Dr. Shaffic Suleman.

    Speaking on PM Express on Joy News, Dr. Suleman indicated that demand for power is expanding at a pace faster than energy planners anticipated.

    “We are now consuming more power beyond what has been projected,” he said. “We are looking at an annual projection of 8% per annum, but I can assure you that we are moving. We are moving far faster than that.”

    He attributed the development to a combination of improved electricity reliability and growing economic confidence, which has encouraged households and businesses to increase usage. According to him, previously suppressed demand is now being released as consumers respond to a more stable power supply environment.

    “And it’s because of the stability and availability of power, and then the suppressed demand is now being curtailed, so more consumers are coming on board generally, thanks to the stability of the economy,” he explained.

    The surge in consumption comes at a critical time, as government advances plans for a 24-hour economy a policy expected to significantly increase industrial and commercial activity.

    Dr. Suleman suggested that the rising demand reinforces the need for urgent expansion of generation capacity to avoid future supply gaps.

    “So we have to be fast with additional capacity,” he stated.

    He disclosed that discussions at the highest level of government are already underway to strengthen the country’s generation base. “President Mahama and the Minister of Energy, John Jinapor, are working towards adding additional capacity and ensuring that we have enough,” he said.

    Dr. Suleman further noted that peak load levels are reaching unfamiliar thresholds, a sign that economic activity is intensifying and placing new demands on the grid.

    “Peak load is also experiencing targets or points that we are not familiar with, and obviously, the economy is growing, so we need power,” he added.

    While assuring that current supply remains stable, he stressed the importance of forward planning to sustain growth and meet anticipated demand between 2027 and 2029.

    “Power is available, so all we need to do now is to think of how best or how fast we can get additional capacity to come in and supplement, especially going towards 2027 to 29.”

    The latest figures position the energy sector as both a beneficiary of economic recovery and a critical enabler of Ghana’s next phase of growth, underscoring the urgency of timely infrastructure expansion.

    The Communications Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), William Boateng, has asserted that heat conditions, wiring and earthing are most likely contributing factors to excessive electricity consumption affecting its customers.

    This was in response to concerns from sections of the public who have made claims of being overcharged and that their prepaid credit no longer lasts as long as before.

    In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Boateng advised customers to frequently check for possible electrical faults in their homes.

    “When the heat increases, someone can even double the use of cooling appliances. That alone can affect your consumption. Sometimes the issue may be with wiring or earthing. That is why we have certified electrical contractors who can check whether there is leakage or any fault affecting consumption,” he said.”

    Mr. Boateng urged customers who notice irregularities in their billing to report them directly to ECG for investigation, so that engineers can inspect the meter, review consumption patterns, and identify the cause of the problem.

    “We work with machines; it is not about defending anything. There could be a margin of error. If your bill exceeds what you expected or your credit finishes unusually fast, report it to ECG,” he urged, adding that, “When customers report, we can properly investigate, analyse the situation, and resolve it if there is a genuine problem,” he assured.

    Last year, the Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Professor Alex Dodoo, warned of the dangers associated with uncalibrated electricity meters which were in use nationwide.

    These uncalibrated metres being utilised by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), he said, did not guarantee the protection of consumers and also are not able to hold industry accountable for fair charges.

    Calibration of meters ensures that energy usage is measured accurately, preventing overbilling or underbilling for consumers.

    His comments came amid growing public concerns of overbilling, inconsistent power supply, and inefficiencies in the power-producing company’s services.

    Speaking at a stakeholder conference organized by the International Electrotechnical Commission yesterday, May 20, 2025 in Accra, Prof. Dodoo revealed that many ECG meters in circulation had not been calibrated or verified by the Ghana Standards Authority, as has been mandated by the National Instrumentation Regulation NI2413.

    “Very few of our meters have been calibrated and verified by the GSA. If the meter you are using has not been calibrated or verified by the Ghana Standards Authority, as required by NI2413, its accuracy is questionable. We simply cannot vouch for it,” he said.

    Prof. Dodoo said meters not being calibrated put consumers at risk of under- and overbilling.

    The NI2413 law mandates that all electricity meters in circulation must be calibrated and verified by the GSA to ensure accuracy, fair billing, and energy efficiency.

    Additionally, the Weights and Measures Decree, NRCD 326 of 1975, empowers the GSA to oversee legal metrology, ensuring that measuring instruments used in trade and industry meet standardized accuracy requirements.

    However, to resolve this, he mentioned that his outfit is currently working with the ECG and Public Utility and Regulatory Commission (PURC) to configure the millions of meters currently in circulation in the country.

    “The law states it must be verified and calibrated. Thankfully, we are working with ECG and PURC to ensure that all the millions of meters in Ghana are properly calibrated and verified by the GSA,” he noted.

    He also linked the issue to national development, emphasizing its importance in the government’s ambition to implement a 24-hour economy.

    “And I know it’s a very troubling issue. But as we support the President in rolling out a 24-hour economy, it’s important that we provide the quality infrastructure that will make the 24-hour economy succeed,” he concluded.

    In the same year, the government, through the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, approved the procurement of 200 new transformers for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to strengthen power transmission and distribution to major cities across the country.

    The sector minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, made information public on May 28, 2025 during the opening session of the 18th West Africa Mining and Power Exhibition (WAMPEX) at the Grand Arena and Accra International Convention Centre (AICC) in Accra.

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) made a formal request for 200 new transformers in April 2025, and after barely a month, the government gave the green light for the deployment of the transformers.

    “Despite the challenges we inherited, recent reports show that power generation has been very stable” What we need to do is improve the transmission and distribution network. In this regard, I have granted approval to ECG as a matter of urgency to inject about 200 transformers in our major capital cities in order to ensure that we not only generate power but we can distribute power to (sic) consumers effectively and efficiently,” Mr Jinapor said.

    Minister Jinapor noted that initial challenges with power generation have been stabilized, and Ghana is now exporting electricity to neighboring countries. The current focus is on improving power transmission and distribution systems.

    WAMPEX, the largest forum for mining and power industries in West Africa, attracted over 240 exhibitors from 30 countries and more than 5,000 visitors this year.

    The event, however provided a platform for industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss challenges, innovations, and future opportunities.

  • Rapperholic UK set to Rock Royal Albert Hall on March 6

    Rapperholic UK set to Rock Royal Albert Hall on March 6

    Ghanaian rap superstar Sarkodie is set to headline Rapperholic UK at the legendary Royal Albert Hall on March 6, in a grand celebration of Ghana’s Independence Day.

    In preparation for the event, Sarkodie visited the iconic venue, taking in its historic atmosphere and gearing up for what is expected to be a landmark performance.

    Speaking to the BBC ahead of the concert, the award-winning rapper discussed the significance of the show and its role in promoting Ghanaian music on the international stage.

    During a live Instagram session, he reassured fans that everything is on track for March 6. Sarkodie also expressed gratitude to Bizzle Entertainment and Kilimanjaro Live for their efforts in organizing the event.

    Reflecting on his career journey, Sarkodie shared an Instagram post captioned: “Beautiful journey and I can only be thankful.”

    With excitement mounting, Rapperholic UK promises more than just music—it will be a celebration of Ghanaian talent, resilience, and global influence.

    Rapperholic has moved beyond Ghana to become one of Africa’s most respected hip-hop brands, known for delivering powerful live performances.

    Music industry observers say selling out the Royal Albert Hall is a big deal, as the venue is known for its strict sound standards and refined audience.

    Sarkodie’s ability to fill such a venue confirms his place as one of Africa’s top music acts on the world stage.

    The date of the concert also makes it special.

    By holding the show on Ghana’s Independence Day, Sarkodie has turned the concert into a proud celebration of Ghana’s talent and culture.

    Creative arts experts see the sell-out as a strong sign of Ghana’s growing influence and the global demand for African music.

    The show is expected to draw a wide mix of people, including Ghanaians living in the UK and hip-hop fans from different parts of the world.

    The impact of the concert is also likely to benefit the UK economy, especially hotels and tourism, as fans from across Europe have reportedly bought tickets for the event.

    As excitement builds, the rapper has been giving fans hints of a high-quality show, said to feature a live orchestra and surprise guest appearances from top UK and African artists.

    For Ghana’s creative industry, this sold-out concert stands as an example for other artists, showing that with strong branding and consistency, performing on the world’s biggest stages is possible.

    The concert was held on Saturday, 27, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. When the stadium was announced as the venue to host the concert, concerns were raised by football enthusiasts and stakeholders about the authority approving the concert to be held at the stadium when Ghana is preparing for an international match. Ghana has a mixed history when it comes to the quality of our pitches, with rare cases of consistent maintenance often from hosting football, concerts, and rallies. Lack of pitch covers, among others.

    The Baba Yara pitch is undergoing renovations to meet CAF and FIFA standards, including turf upgrades and drainage improvements.

    Hence, to address these concerns, the Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, clarified that while his outfit has given the rapper the green light to host the concert at the stadium, he has been banned from extending his activities to the pitch itself.

    Acknowledging the poor state of pitches in the Ghana government’s efforts to renovate and add to the number of stadiums nationwide, he explained that, “Sarkodie is prohibited from using the pitch to host the Rapperholic event. The pitch is important to us, and there is no way the event will be hosted on the pitch,” he said during an appearance on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

    He continued that, while Sarkodie has explicitly been told to stay away from the pitch itself, he cautioned that sanctions would be applied if the arrangements were violated.

    “We are aware that there is an agreement in place stating that a penalty or fine will be incurred should that happen, but we are not interested in pursuing that. There are no pitch covers, so we have to put measures in place to ensure that the pitch is safe,” he noted.

    Sarkodie, responding to the NSA’s directive, took to his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to assure fans that, as he had been explicitly directed from the outset, he expressed his intention to host the concert at the stadium and would not break any rules.

    “The rules were set from day 1, and we are not ready to break it (sic),” he said.

    When did Rapperholic start

    The Rapperholic Concert was founded in 2012 to showcase Sarkodie’s music, celebrate Ghanaian rap, and thrill fans with exciting performances from both local and foreign artists. The concert is usually headlined by Sarkodie, who mostly gives opportunities to emerging rappers to perform. Rapperholic is mostly nothing short of an actual display of fashion and culture, with fans dressing in streetwear, among others.

    Sarkodie visits Otumfuor

    Sarkodie visited Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at Manhyia Palace to formally seek royal blessing for the Rapperholic Kumasi Edition. During the meeting, Otumfuo warmly welcomed Sarkodie’s initiative and said:

    “They don’t allow me to go out often, but this one, I would like to attend and watch the event myself.”Sarkordie was there with his team to officially inform the King about the upcoming concert and also seek his blessings and consent. 

  • Yaw Dabo, Oboy Siki settle GHS1m defamation dispute after Dr Frank Amoakohene’s intervention

    Yaw Dabo, Oboy Siki settle GHS1m defamation dispute after Dr Frank Amoakohene’s intervention

    Kumawood figures Yaw Dabo and Oboy Siki, also known as Dada Santo, have settled their defamation disagreement without continuing the court process.

    The legal battle began after Yaw Dabo sued Oboy Siki, accusing him of making damaging remarks about him. However, fewer than two days after their initial appearance in court, Dabo chose to withdraw the case following mediation efforts led by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene.

    A video released after their meeting with the minister showed both men announcing their decision to end the dispute outside the courtroom.

    As part of the resolution, Oboy Siki retracted the statements in question and rendered an unreserved apology to Dabo for any distress caused.

    He explained that his comments were intended to generate social media attention, but since Dabo was displeased, he opted to take them back.

    Yaw Dabo demands GH¢1m from Oboy Siki over alleged defamatory comments

    “I have already apologised to Dabo before Frank [Dr Amoakohene], but let me state it here that all I said was not true and was said out of anger,” Oboy Siki told the media.

    After addressing bloggers, Oboy Siki approached Dabo, extended a handshake, and publicly requested confirmation that he had been forgiven.

    Dabo responded by confirming that he had accepted the apology. He indicated that the matter had been resolved through the involvement of the regional minister and other influential personalities who had intervened.

    Background

    The dispute traces back to remarks Oboy Siki allegedly made during an interview with Ghpage, where he criticised Dabo’s role in football administration and commented on aspects of his personal life, including allegations relating to infertility.

    He further claimed that Dabo had made insulting comments about President John Dramani Mahama.

    Believing the statements had harmed his public image, Dabo proceeded to file a defamation lawsuit against Oboy Siki, demanding GH₵1 million in compensation.

    On February 23, 2026, both actors made their first appearance at the High Court in Kumasi. Footage shared online captured them at the courthouse with several Kumawood colleagues, among them Sumsum Ahuofe, while the case was called.

    Subsequently, it emerged that the court had postponed proceedings to give the parties room to consider an amicable settlement — a process that has now been concluded.

    Also in the world of music, veteran music producer Fred Kyei Mensah, popularly known as Fredyma, and Highlife musician Ofori Amponsah settled their age-old dispute over how the latter first met the late Daddy Lumba.

    Fredyma took to Facebook on November 5 to announce that he had finally smoked the peace pipe with Ofori Amponsah during an appearance on Joy Prime TV, where Andy Dosty was the host. 

    “This evening on Joy Prime TV hosted by the venerable Andy Dosty, Ofori Amponsah and I settled the seemingly conflict about who introduced him to the late Daddy Lumba.”

    “We both agreed that I did his demo songs, which ushered him to be accepted and to be part of Daddy Lumba’s music kingdom and his subsequent success in the music industry,” Fredyma stated.” 

    The veteran music producer further clarifed; “Apparently, Ofori Amponsah had visited Lumba’s house and made him listen to the demo I did and signed agreements without my knowledge before inviting me to accompany him later to officially present his demo. This was where the whole confusion erupted.”

    Fredyma added that, he knew the late Daddy Lumba for over four decades, but never indulged Ofori Amponsah and his dealings with the late legend.

    “I didn’t ever partake in any of his music dealings through the signing of agreements with the late Daddy Lumba,” he wrote.

    However, in June 1993, he took Ofori for an audition at the National Museums and Monuments Board, a move that eventually opened the door for him to perform at the National Theatre.

    “I took Ofori Amponsah for an audition at the National Museums and Monuments Board in June 1993 for onward performance at the National Theatre,” he recounted.

    According to Fredyma, Ofori Amponsah gained fame at the mainstream with Daddy Lumba after recording two albums in his studio.

    But one of the albums, a Highlife project recorded with Dada Ahuofe in 1995, was never released.

    A Gospel album recorded in 1996 came out before Ofori’s 1999 hit collaboration “Odo Mmra Fie” with Lumba.

    The veteran producer said he had not worked with Ofori Amponsah since 1997 but remains grateful that the long-standing misunderstanding has finally been resolved.

    “Officially, this has been Ofori Amponsah’s moment and journey in my life. I have never worked on any music project with him since 1997 to date. I am grateful that this uncalled-for impasse has been laid to rest. Thanks for your understanding. No malice intended. We move. Daddy Lumba koraa, wa wu so why the fuss?” he concluded.

  • Ghana’s power consumption rate exceeds 8% target amid economic growth — PURC

    Ghana’s power consumption rate exceeds 8% target amid economic growth — PURC


    Electricity consumers in the country are using more power than the expected 8 percent yearly growth rate.

    This is an indication that the economy is improving and power supply has become more stable, according to the Executive Secretary of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission, Dr. Shaffic Suleman.

    Speaking on PM Express on Joy News, Dr. Suleman indicated that demand for power is expanding at a pace faster than energy planners anticipated.

    “We are now consuming more power beyond what has been projected,” he said. “We are looking at an annual projection of 8% per annum, but I can assure you that we are moving. We are moving far faster than that.”

    He attributed the development to a combination of improved electricity reliability and growing economic confidence, which has encouraged households and businesses to increase usage. According to him, previously suppressed demand is now being released as consumers respond to a more stable power supply environment.

    “And it’s because of the stability and availability of power, and then the suppressed demand is now being curtailed, so more consumers are coming on board generally, thanks to the stability of the economy,” he explained.

    The surge in consumption comes at a critical time, as government advances plans for a 24-hour economy a policy expected to significantly increase industrial and commercial activity.

    Dr. Suleman suggested that the rising demand reinforces the need for urgent expansion of generation capacity to avoid future supply gaps.

    “So we have to be fast with additional capacity,” he stated.

    He disclosed that discussions at the highest level of government are already underway to strengthen the country’s generation base. “President Mahama and the Minister of Energy, John Jinapor, are working towards adding additional capacity and ensuring that we have enough,” he said.

    Dr. Suleman further noted that peak load levels are reaching unfamiliar thresholds, a sign that economic activity is intensifying and placing new demands on the grid.

    “Peak load is also experiencing targets or points that we are not familiar with, and obviously, the economy is growing, so we need power,” he added.

    While assuring that current supply remains stable, he stressed the importance of forward planning to sustain growth and meet anticipated demand between 2027 and 2029.

    “Power is available, so all we need to do now is to think of how best or how fast we can get additional capacity to come in and supplement, especially going towards 2027 to 29.”

    The latest figures position the energy sector as both a beneficiary of economic recovery and a critical enabler of Ghana’s next phase of growth, underscoring the urgency of timely infrastructure expansion.

    The Communications Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), William Boateng, has asserted that heat conditions, wiring and earthing are most likely contributing factors to excessive electricity consumption affecting its customers.

    This was in response to concerns from sections of the public who have made claims of being overcharged and that their prepaid credit no longer lasts as long as before.

    In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Boateng advised customers to frequently check for possible electrical faults in their homes.

    “When the heat increases, someone can even double the use of cooling appliances. That alone can affect your consumption. Sometimes the issue may be with wiring or earthing. That is why we have certified electrical contractors who can check whether there is leakage or any fault affecting consumption,” he said.”

    Mr. Boateng urged customers who notice irregularities in their billing to report them directly to ECG for investigation, so that engineers can inspect the meter, review consumption patterns, and identify the cause of the problem.

    “We work with machines; it is not about defending anything. There could be a margin of error. If your bill exceeds what you expected or your credit finishes unusually fast, report it to ECG,” he urged, adding that, “When customers report, we can properly investigate, analyse the situation, and resolve it if there is a genuine problem,” he assured.

    Last year, the Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Professor Alex Dodoo, warned of the dangers associated with uncalibrated electricity meters which were in use nationwide.

    These uncalibrated metres being utilised by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), he said, did not guarantee the protection of consumers and also are not able to hold industry accountable for fair charges.

    Calibration of meters ensures that energy usage is measured accurately, preventing overbilling or underbilling for consumers.

    His comments came amid growing public concerns of overbilling, inconsistent power supply, and inefficiencies in the power-producing company’s services.

    Speaking at a stakeholder conference organized by the International Electrotechnical Commission yesterday, May 20, 2025 in Accra, Prof. Dodoo revealed that many ECG meters in circulation had not been calibrated or verified by the Ghana Standards Authority, as has been mandated by the National Instrumentation Regulation NI2413.

    “Very few of our meters have been calibrated and verified by the GSA. If the meter you are using has not been calibrated or verified by the Ghana Standards Authority, as required by NI2413, its accuracy is questionable. We simply cannot vouch for it,” he said.

    Prof. Dodoo said meters not being calibrated put consumers at risk of under- and overbilling.

    The NI2413 law mandates that all electricity meters in circulation must be calibrated and verified by the GSA to ensure accuracy, fair billing, and energy efficiency.

    Additionally, the Weights and Measures Decree, NRCD 326 of 1975, empowers the GSA to oversee legal metrology, ensuring that measuring instruments used in trade and industry meet standardized accuracy requirements.

    However, to resolve this, he mentioned that his outfit is currently working with the ECG and Public Utility and Regulatory Commission (PURC) to configure the millions of meters currently in circulation in the country.

    “The law states it must be verified and calibrated. Thankfully, we are working with ECG and PURC to ensure that all the millions of meters in Ghana are properly calibrated and verified by the GSA,” he noted.

    He also linked the issue to national development, emphasizing its importance in the government’s ambition to implement a 24-hour economy.

    “And I know it’s a very troubling issue. But as we support the President in rolling out a 24-hour economy, it’s important that we provide the quality infrastructure that will make the 24-hour economy succeed,” he concluded.

    In the same year, the government, through the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, approved the procurement of 200 new transformers for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to strengthen power transmission and distribution to major cities across the country.

    The sector minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, made information public on May 28, 2025 during the opening session of the 18th West Africa Mining and Power Exhibition (WAMPEX) at the Grand Arena and Accra International Convention Centre (AICC) in Accra.

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) made a formal request for 200 new transformers in April 2025, and after barely a month, the government gave the green light for the deployment of the transformers.

    “Despite the challenges we inherited, recent reports show that power generation has been very stable” What we need to do is improve the transmission and distribution network. In this regard, I have granted approval to ECG as a matter of urgency to inject about 200 transformers in our major capital cities in order to ensure that we not only generate power but we can distribute power to (sic) consumers effectively and efficiently,” Mr Jinapor said.

    Minister Jinapor noted that initial challenges with power generation have been stabilized, and Ghana is now exporting electricity to neighboring countries. The current focus is on improving power transmission and distribution systems.

    WAMPEX, the largest forum for mining and power industries in West Africa, attracted over 240 exhibitors from 30 countries and more than 5,000 visitors this year.

    The event, however provided a platform for industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss challenges, innovations, and future opportunities.

  • Korle Bu hides identities of four interdicted staff

    Korle Bu hides identities of four interdicted staff

    The management of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has left many questioning the sincerity of its investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of a hit-and-run victim, Charles Amissah, an engineer at Promasidor Ghana Limited in the North Industrial Area of Accra.

    The 29-year-old was rushed to three major public health facilities in the city after a roadside accident, but he was turned away each time. Only his body was admitted into the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital mortuary after he died in an ambulance.

    Strangely, the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has kept the identities of the four health workers confidential in the press statement announcing that two medical doctors and two nurses have been interdicted following their alleged failure to provide emergency medical care to a hit-and-run victim.

    The omission of names and the secrecy surrounding their identities by the health institution with thousands of workers has raised many questions, although the hospital stated, “The Korle Bu Teaching Hospital remains committed to transparency, accountability and the delivery of quality healthcare services”, adding, “Further information will be communicated upon completion of the investigation.”

    Interestingly, one Dr Nkrumah, who was on duty at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, was captured by media reports as appearing when the victim had died. He came out to certify the patient as dead and instructed the ambulance crew to convey the body to the mortuary for preservation. Dr Nkrumah’s name was not mentioned in the Korle Bu statement.

    However, the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital was not the only public health facility to refuse Amissah emergency medical treatment, which led to his death in a vehicle owned by the National Ambulance Service. The Police Hospital and the Greater Accra Regional Hospital also refused to treat, even failing to provide First Aid. But the two facilities have yet to announce any investigations or actions against their staff, who also refused emergency treatment for the late Amissah.

    Equally strange is that the police, since 6 February 2026, have not issued any statement on the widely publicised incident, including plans to trace and arrest the driver who knocked down Amissah, leading to his eventual death. This is despite the existence of the Emergency Call Center (ECC), which operates under the National Signals Bureau (NSB), a key national security institution responsible for communication monitoring, intelligence gathering, and security, established under the National Signals Bureau Act, 2020 (Act 1040). The state had spent hundreds of millions of dollars on the construction, but it appears the centre is not fulfilling its intended purpose.

    The statement issued in the name of the management of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, and dated Monday, 23rd February 2026, said that the investigation was “In line with established administrative procedures, a committee has been constituted to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and the unfortunate death of the victim”.

    “Pending the outcome of the committee’s work, the Board and Management call on all persons connected to the matter to cooperate fully with the committee to ensure a fair and transparent inquiry”.

    “The Korle Bu Teaching Hospital remains committed to transparency, accountability and the delivery of quality healthcare services. Further information will be communicated upon completion of the investigation”.

    For close to three hours on Friday [February 6, 2026], a victim of a hit-and-run incident at Nkrumah Circle Overpass in Accra was refused emergency care by three major hospitals in Accra, with the explanation of “no vacant bed available,” until he died.

    The Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) from the National Ambulance Service received a walk-in call at 10:32 pm that day to attend to an emergency Road Traffic Crash (RTC) at Circle Overpass. They responded and mobilised to the scene within three minutes, arriving by 10:35 pm.

    From that period till around 00:50 am, the EMT from the ambulance service fruitlessly negotiated with the three hospitals to either admit the victim or attend to him in the ambulance before he died.

    That victim was later identified as 29-year-old Charles Amissah, an engineer working at Promasidor Ghana Limited in the North Industrial Area in Accra, producer of Cowbell milk and other food products.

    Charles had closed from work at the North Industrial Area and was on his way home to Adenta on a red motorcycle when he was involved in a hit-and-run incident at the Nkrumah Circle Overpass in Accra.

    Ambulance Service reported in its situational report (SITREP) that the EMT, after responding to the distress call, controlled the bleeding with a gauze bandage, applied a cervical collar, log-rolled the patient onto a spine board, and loaded him into the ambulance. Oxygen therapy was initiated via nasal prongs at 4 litres per minute. Vital signs were monitored every five (5) minutes.

    The initial assessment by the ambulance EMT were: BP: 120/90 mmHg, Pulse: 100 bpm, Respiratory Rate: 25 bpm, SpO₂: 99% and Temperature: 36.4°C.

    They first took the victim, weighing 120kg, with a height of 1.75m, to the Police Hospital, then to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge) before Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

    None of the three major hospitals admitted the victim, nor did the staff offer emergency care, even when the ambulance EMT offered to wait and use the ambulance trolley. Staff at the Police Hospital said there was no space within the facility.

    Over the almost three hours, no hospital staff attended to the casualty, nor were vital signs taken at any of the three hospitals.

    At Korle Bu, the EMT from the ambulance service used 30 minutes to negotiate that, due to the deterioration of the patient’s condition, they were objecting to further transportation and explained that continued movement could place the patient in a dangerous situation.

    This was when Korle Bu, the third hospital they had visited that night, rejected the victim and advised the crew to continue transporting him to the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) at Legon.

    However, despite several negotiations, more than 30 minutes at Korle Bu in particular, the victim was still refused, and no hospital staff attended to the casualty, nor were vital signs taken.

    The victim went through the ordeal for close to three hours in the ambulance before going into cardiac arrest, and even though cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was immediately initiated by the ambulance EMT, it yielded no positive outcome.

    The victim died, and it was only then that one Dr Nkrumah, who was on duty at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, came out to certify the patient dead and instructed the crew to convey the body to the mortuary. All this time, the family of the victim was not aware of what had happened.

    When he did not return to the house in Adenta, they lodged a complaint at the Adenta Police Station, and he was declared missing. Information about him was shared on social media to help the public locate him.

    Meanwhile, Dr Matilda Amissah, sister of the late Charles Amissah, has described the interdiction of four individuals by Korle Bu Teaching Hospital as a positive step but says it does not ease the pain of losing her brother.

    Reacting to the development on JoyNews on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, Dr Matilda Amissah said the family remains devastated despite the disciplinary action.

    “I think a couple of people spoke to me, and I was like, it won’t bring back Charles. Charles is gone, but at least it’s a step that we have taken. The bigger issue is still there, and we would have to handle it. Charles is gone, and we are still sad,” she said.

    She described her late brother, popularly known as Kwabena Takyi, as a quiet and hardworking young man who played a vital role in supporting the family.

    “He was a very quiet, loving young gentleman. He was the backbone of the house and supported my mum in everything. Because he was an engineer, he could dismantle and put things back together within the twinkle of an eye,” she recounted.

    According to her, the family initially thought he was missing after the accident and reported the matter to the police. She said they were later contacted by the Nima Police Station to identify a victim involved in an accident.

    “We thought he was missing, so we looked for him and reported to the police. They also did their part to search for him until the Nima Police Station called to say there had been an accident and that we needed to identify someone. We went to the Korle Bu mortuary, and there he was. Later, we realised that the National Ambulance Service had picked him up and taken him to three facilities for close to three hours, yet nobody attended to him,” she said.

    “I was like, wow. I know we have many issues in the healthcare system that we have to address, but I was still heartbroken, and I’m still heartbroken. I’m smiling, but my heart is heavy. We’re hoping that things will change,” she added.

    Dr Amissah said the family is relying on faith to cope with the loss while hoping for reforms to prevent similar incidents.

    “We are comforted in the Lord. We know that things will change from whatever has happened. We can’t say much, but we put our trust in God,” she stated.

    How three ‘big’ hospitals defied GHS directives and left a hit-and-run victim to die. She noted that her brother joined Promasidor Ghana after completing his studies in China and later undertaking his national service with the company, where he was retained as a full-time engineer.

    The interdiction by Korle Bu forms part of ongoing administrative processes following public outrage over the circumstances surrounding his death.

    Source: theheraldghana.com

  • Finance Minister unveils national policy designed to build external reserves

    Finance Minister unveils national policy designed to build external reserves

    The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has unveiled Ghana’s first-ever comprehensive national policy specifically designed to deliberately and sustainably build the country’s external reserves and secure long-term macroeconomic stability.

    Presenting the Ghana Accelerated National Reserve Accumulation Policy (GANRAP) (2026–2028) to Parliament, the minister described the initiative as a historic and strategic shift in how Ghana manages its external buffers, moving away from costly borrowing and short-term reserve-building measures toward a structured, gold-backed and reform-driven accumulation framework.

    Strong Economic Foundation
    Dr Forson told Parliament that the policy builds on the decisive macroeconomic turnaround achieved in 2025 following the 2022–2023 crisis.

    Key indicators at the end of 2025 included:

    • Real GDP growth averaging 6.1% in the first three quarters of 2025
    • Inflation declining sharply from 23.8% in 2024 to 5.4% and further to 3.8% in January 2026.
    • The 91-day Treasury bill rate falling from 27.7% at end-2024 to 6.4% in February 2026
    • Public debt declining from 61.8% of GDP to 45.3%
    • Gross international reserves rising to US$13.8 billion, equivalent to 5.7 months of import cover, up from 4.0 months in 2024.

    Despite these gains, the Minister cautioned that the traditional benchmark of three months of import cover is no longer sufficient in today’s volatile global environment.

    Target: 15 Months of Import Cover by 2028
    Under GANRAP, the government is targeting an ambitious increase in reserves to the equivalent of 15 months of import cover by end-2028.

    The policy sets intermediate milestones of:
    • 8.6 months by end-2026
    • 11.8 months by end-2027
    • 15 months by end-2028

    The Minister described the target as the creation of an “economic war chest” to shield Ghana against commodity price shocks, global financing volatility, geopolitical tensions and climate-related disruptions.

    Gold as the Strategic Anchor
    Central to the policy is a deliberate gold-backed reserve accumulation strategy anchored on the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140), which mandates the Ghana Gold Board to generate foreign exchange and support gold reserve accumulation by the Bank of Ghana.

    The government has set an operational weekly gold purchase target of approximately 3.02 tonnes.

    This will be achieved through:
    • Acquisition of at least 2.45 tonnes weekly from the Artisanal Small-Scale Mining (ASM) sector
    • Invocation of pre-emption rights to secure a minimum of 0.57 tonnes weekly from the large-scale mining sector.

    The gold acquired will be refined, added to Ghana’s physical reserves, and may only be sold with prior approval of Cabinet and Parliament.

    Ending Costly Borrowing for Reserves
    The Minister noted that between 2017 and 2024, Ghana relied heavily on Eurobonds, swaps, sale-and-buy-back transactions and commercial bank borrowing to build reserves at significant cost.

    From 2022 to 2024 alone, the Bank of Ghana accumulated US$5.65 billion in reserves through swaps and related transactions at a cost of US$1.16 billion in interest.

    Additionally, Eurobond borrowings between 2018 and 2021 to support reserve build-up cost taxpayers about US$2.5 billion in interest payments alone, with Ghana still servicing these debts.

    Dr Forson stressed that borrowing to accumulate reserves is unsustainable and contributed to the 2022 debt distress.

    In contrast, he revealed that in 2025 alone, the Ghana Gold Board generated approximately US$10 billion in foreign exchange at a cost of US$214 million, significantly lower than the cost of comparable borrowing.

    Broader Structural Reforms
    Beyond gold, the policy integrates structural reforms aimed at expanding foreign exchange inflows and reducing persistent outflows.

    These include:
    • Scaling up non-traditional exports
    • Revitalising cocoa productivity
    • Implementing the National Policy on Integrated Oil Palm Development
    • Accelerating new oil field developments such as Pecan
    • Conserving foreign exchange through a Gas-to-Power Transformation Policy

    The Minister emphasised that maintaining fiscal discipline and sustaining a primary surplus remain critical to protecting the gains achieved.

    Safeguarding Ghana’s Future
    Dr. Forson concluded by urging Parliament to support what he described as a historic and forward-looking policy framework designed to strengthen Ghana’s first line of defence against external shocks.

    The overarching objective, he said, is to build a resilient reserve management system that safeguards macroeconomic stability, sustains investor confidence, improves living standards and secures lasting prosperity for future generations.

    With the unveiling of GANRAP, Ghana becomes one of the few African countries to adopt a structured, legislatively anchored national reserve accumulation strategy driven primarily by domestic resource mobilisation rather than external borrowing.

    Source: GhanaWeb

  • You have 7 days to provide report on rapid prepaid credit depletion – Energy Minister to ECG

    You have 7 days to provide report on rapid prepaid credit depletion – Energy Minister to ECG

    The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has ordered the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to probe widespread complaints that prepaid electricity credits are vanishing unusually fast.

    Consumers across the country have reported that their power units are running out much sooner than before, even when electricity usage patterns remain unchanged.

    Richmond Rockson, the Ministry’s spokesperson, confirmed on X on February 24, 2026, that Dr John Abdulai Jinapor, the Energy Minister, is treating the situation as urgent.

    The minister has given ECG a strict seven-day timeline to identify the reasons behind the billing irregularities.

    “The Minister… has taken notice of these complaints and has directed ECG to investigate and provide a report to him within seven days for further action,” Rockson said.

    The probe is intended to restore public confidence and ensure transparency in the nation’s electricity billing system.

    Rapid credit depletion has sparked concerns about possible technical glitches, incorrect tariff calculations, or hidden charges on ECG’s digital platforms.

    The Ministry emphasized that the findings of the seven-day investigation will guide subsequent government actions, including corrective measures or policy adjustments to protect consumers.

    The Communications Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), William Boateng, has asserted that heat conditions, wiring and earthing are most likely contributing factors to excessive electricity consumption affecting its customers.

    This was in response to concerns from sections of the public who have made claims of being overcharged and that their prepaid credit no longer lasts as long as before.

    In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Boateng advised customers to frequently check for possible electrical faults in their homes.

    “When the heat increases, someone can even double the use of cooling appliances. That alone can affect your consumption. Sometimes the issue may be with wiring or earthing. That is why we have certified electrical contractors who can check whether there is leakage or any fault affecting consumption,” he said.”

    Mr. Boateng urged customers who notice irregularities in their billing to report them directly to ECG for investigation, so that engineers can inspect the meter, review consumption patterns, and identify the cause of the problem.

    “We work with machines; it is not about defending anything. There could be a margin of error. If your bill exceeds what you expected or your credit finishes unusually fast, report it to ECG,” he urged, adding that, “When customers report, we can properly investigate, analyse the situation, and resolve it if there is a genuine problem,” he assured.

    Last year, the Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Professor Alex Dodoo, warned of the dangers associated with uncalibrated electricity meters which were in use nationwide.

    These uncalibrated metres being utilised by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), he said, did not guarantee the protection of consumers and also are not able to hold industry accountable for fair charges.

    Calibration of meters ensures that energy usage is measured accurately, preventing overbilling or underbilling for consumers.

    His comments came amid growing public concerns of overbilling, inconsistent power supply, and inefficiencies in the power-producing company’s services.

    Speaking at a stakeholder conference organized by the International Electrotechnical Commission yesterday, May 20, 2025 in Accra, Prof. Dodoo revealed that many ECG meters in circulation had not been calibrated or verified by the Ghana Standards Authority, as has been mandated by the National Instrumentation Regulation NI2413.

    “Very few of our meters have been calibrated and verified by the GSA. If the meter you are using has not been calibrated or verified by the Ghana Standards Authority, as required by NI2413, its accuracy is questionable. We simply cannot vouch for it,” he said.

    Prof. Dodoo said meters not being calibrated put consumers at risk of under- and overbilling.

    The NI2413 law mandates that all electricity meters in circulation must be calibrated and verified by the GSA to ensure accuracy, fair billing, and energy efficiency.

    Additionally, the Weights and Measures Decree, NRCD 326 of 1975, empowers the GSA to oversee legal metrology, ensuring that measuring instruments used in trade and industry meet standardized accuracy requirements.

    However, to resolve this, he mentioned that his outfit is currently working with the ECG and Public Utility and Regulatory Commission (PURC) to configure the millions of meters currently in circulation in the country.

    “The law states it must be verified and calibrated. Thankfully, we are working with ECG and PURC to ensure that all the millions of meters in Ghana are properly calibrated and verified by the GSA,” he noted.

    He also linked the issue to national development, emphasizing its importance in the government’s ambition to implement a 24-hour economy.

    “And I know it’s a very troubling issue. But as we support the President in rolling out a 24-hour economy, it’s important that we provide the quality infrastructure that will make the 24-hour economy succeed,” he concluded.

    In the same year, the government, through the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, approved the procurement of 200 new transformers for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to strengthen power transmission and distribution to major cities across the country.

    The sector minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, made information public on May 28, 2025 during the opening session of the 18th West Africa Mining and Power Exhibition (WAMPEX) at the Grand Arena and Accra International Convention Centre (AICC) in Accra.

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) made a formal request for 200 new transformers in April 2025, and after barely a month, the government gave the green light for the deployment of the transformers.

    “Despite the challenges we inherited, recent reports show that power generation has been very stable” What we need to do is improve the transmission and distribution network. In this regard, I have granted approval to ECG as a matter of urgency to inject about 200 transformers in our major capital cities in order to ensure that we not only generate power but we can distribute power to (sic) consumers effectively and efficiently,” Mr Jinapor said.

    Minister Jinapor noted that initial challenges with power generation have been stabilized, and Ghana is now exporting electricity to neighboring countries. The current focus is on improving power transmission and distribution systems.

    WAMPEX, the largest forum for mining and power industries in West Africa, attracted over 240 exhibitors from 30 countries and more than 5,000 visitors this year.

    The event, however provided a platform for industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss challenges, innovations, and future opportunities.

  • Abu Trica back in police custody following NACOC re-arrest

    Abu Trica back in police custody following NACOC re-arrest

    Frederick Kumi, widely known as Abu Trica, has been ordered by a court to remain in police custody after making an appearance before a district court.

    Reports indicate that he was arraigned before the Gbese District Court on February 25, 2026, after being re-arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC).

    The court has adjourned the matter to March 18, 2026, when he is expected to reappear.

    His latest detention follows a previous discharge by the same court, where he and others standing trial with him were freed. That discharge came after authorities in the United States filed charges over an alleged $8 million romance fraud scheme said to have targeted elderly Americans.

    Background

    Abu Trica was initially picked up by Ghanaian security agencies on December 11, 2025, after he was indicted by US prosecutors over claims that he played a role in an extensive online romance scam estimated at more than $8 million.

    Court filings unsealed by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio accuse him of being part of a criminal syndicate that allegedly targeted elderly individuals across the United States beginning in 2023.

    According to prosecutors, members of the group reportedly relied on artificial intelligence tools to generate fictitious identities and form romantic relationships with older victims on social media and dating platforms.

    Investigators contend that the victims were eventually persuaded to part with money and valuable items under false claims, including urgent medical needs, travel-related costs, and supposed investment deals.

    The charges further suggest that Abu Trica facilitated the sharing and movement of funds that were transferred from Ohio to alleged accomplices in Ghana and other jurisdictions.

    The government has warned that more arrests will follow as it intensifies efforts to crack down on cybercrime.

    This was announced by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, during a media engagement.

    He made these remarks while addressing the arrest and detention of a popular Snapchat personality, Frederick Kumi, widely known as Abu Trica, revealing the imminence of three more arrests.

    “There are three more we’re picking up in the next few days,” Sam George noted.

    According to the Ningo Prampram MP, his arrest formed part of a broader enforcement effort by state agencies to deal with individuals whose display of sudden wealth raises serious concerns.

    Speaking in an interview, Mr George said the arrest of Abu Trica formed part of a broader enforcement effort by state agencies to deal with individuals whose display of sudden wealth raises serious concerns. He revealed that the Cyber Security Authority had recently picked up a suspect believed to be living a visibly successful lifestyle without a clear source of income.

    “Just yesterday, one of my agencies, the Cyber Security Authority, picked up an individual who is supposed to be successful. There’s no peace with that kind of success,” the minister said.

    Abu Trica’s arrest

    On December 12, it was reported that 31-year-old Ghanaian from Swedru, Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, had been arrested after he allegedly tricked elderly victims in the United States (U.S) into sending him money by pretending to be in a romantic relationship with them. He was arrested in Ghana on Thursday, December 12.

    Kumi has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and a forfeiture specification. He risks being jailed for 20 years.

    According to the indictment, Kumi had been working with a criminal group since 2023, using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to create fake profiles and lure victims into online romantic relationships.

    The indictment further added that Abu Trica and his team contacted the elderly individuals through social media and dating platforms, where they requested money or valuables to sort out urgent medical bills, travel expenses, or investment opportunities. The criminal group’s co-conspirators in Ghana then received funds and valuables defrauded from the elderly victims.

    The Attorney General’s Office, Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Ghana Police Service, Ghana Cyber Security Authority, Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), and the National Intelligence Bureau, among others, aided the U.S. in tracing Abu Trica. Meanwhile, these agencies are working to arrest co-conspirators and recover the defrauded funds.

    In October, four Ghanaian nationals—Isaac Oduro Boateng aka “Kofi Boat,” Inusah Ahmed aka “Pascal,” Derrick Van Yeboah aka “Van,” and Patrick Kwame Asare aka “Borgar”—were charged for their roles in an international criminal organization that stole more than $100 million from victims via romance scams and business email compromises.

    United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Christopher G. Raia, announced the unsealing of an indictment charging them.

    Boateng, 36; Ahmed, 40; Van Yeboah, 40; and Asare, 39, are charged with one count of wire fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of money laundering conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to receive stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; and one count of receipt of stolen money, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

    The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Boateng, Ahmed, and Van Yeboah were extradited and arrived in the U.S. on August 7 and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger. Asare, on the other hand, remains at large. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian.

    “As alleged, Isaac Oduro Boateng, Inusah Ahmed, Derrick Van Yeboah, and Patrick Kwame Asare led and participated in an international fraud ring that engaged in a massive conspiracy to defraud vulnerable people and steal from businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.

    “Offshore scammers should know that we, the FBI, and our law enforcement partners will work around the world to combat online fraud and bring perpetrators to justice.”

    “The defendants have been brought to the United States to be held accountable for their alleged roles in scamming companies and vulnerable Americans out of over $100 million,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia.

    “Deceiving businesses using email compromise campaigns and tricking innocent elderly victims through fraudulent companionship in order to exploit their trust and finances is not merely appalling but illegal. The FBI will continue to ensure anyone who preys on companies and vulnerable Americans online is made to face the criminal justice system.”

    The indictment revealed that Boateng, Ahmed, Van Yeboah, and Asare were high-ranking members of a criminal organization based in Ghana that committed romance scams and business email compromises against individuals and businesses located across the U.S.

    Many of the conspiracy’s victims were vulnerable older men and women who were tricked into believing that they were in online romantic relationships with people who were, in fact, fake identities assumed by members of the conspiracy.

    Once members of the conspiracy had gained the trust of their victims, they deceived those victims into sending their money to the enterprise or into helping them launder funds from other victims.

    The conspirators also committed business email compromises to trick and deceive businesses into wiring funds to the enterprise. In total, the conspiracy stole and laundered more than $100 million from dozens of victims.

    After stealing the money, the fraud proceeds were then laundered to West Africa, where they were largely funnelled to individuals called “chairmen,” who directed the activities of other members of the conspiracy. Boateng and Ahmed were considered chairmen of the organization.

    The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined

  • Most A-list secular artist are not spiritually fulfilled, they just act happy publicly – Yaw Siki

    Most A-list secular artist are not spiritually fulfilled, they just act happy publicly – Yaw Siki

    Former secular musician turned gospel minister, Yaw Siki, has claimed that many top-tier secular artistes feel spiritually empty despite their fame and financial success.

    Speaking in an interview with Nana Romeo on Okay FM on February 24, 2026, he argued that outward success in the secular music space does not necessarily translate into inner fulfilment.

    “Every A-list secular artiste knows that they’re empty even though they seem happy and making more money. They’re empty because they’re not doing what God wants them to do,” he noted.

    Drawing from his personal journey, Yaw Siki said his perspective is shaped by his past involvement in secular music before he gave his life to Christ. According to him, many artistes who produce secular songs are aware of the motivations behind their craft.

    “Musicians who sing secular songs for people to be happy, we are aware they’re doing it for the money because I’ve been there before,” he said.

    He explained that the pursuit of fame and wealth often makes it difficult for artistes to walk away from secular music after they have invested years of hard work into building their brands.

    “It’s sometimes difficult to repent when artistes get the fame and it’s due to how they toiled hard to get to that point,” he shared.

    Yaw Siki therefore advised emerging musicians to think carefully about their choices before fully committing to the secular path, especially if they are still at the early stages of their careers.

    “If you’re now coming into the industry, it’s not too late. If you’re not big like the A-list artistes, don’t bother yourself to be a secular artiste,” he advised.

    He also encouraged secular artistes who feel called to serve God not to be afraid of losing popularity, money, or public admiration.

    “You should understand that God can restore whatever you would lose while trying to move away from the secular world,” he said.

    Ending his remarks, he urged artistes to focus on fulfilling their divine assignment, stressing that true satisfaction comes from spiritual alignment rather than material achievement.

    “They shouldn’t be scared of what they’ll lose or the people who will criticize them. If they’re able to serve their purpose in life, they’ll be satisfied spiritually and physically,” he added.

  • Comic Nigerian actor Okemesi has passed on

    Comic Nigerian actor Okemesi has passed on

    Nigerian comic actor Bamidele Tope Saint, widely recognised by his stage name Okemesi, has died.

    A report published by GhanaWeb on February 25, 2026, indicated that he was pronounced dead at about 11:50 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

    The report stated that the actor slipped into a coma for several hours before his passing, reportedly due to complications arising from medication he had been given at the hospital.

    In a video posted on Instagram, fellow Nigerian actor Tony Montana Jeff thanked supporters of the late entertainer for their overwhelming assistance during Okemesi’s difficult period.

    “With a heavy heart, I am announcing to the world that Okemesi is dead. The doctor pronounced him dead at exactly 11:50 a.m. this morning, February 24, 2026. Okemesi is gone.

    “On behalf of the entire Bamidele family, I am announcing to the world that Oluwatope Bamidele Saint, popularly known as Okemesi, is dead. We have taken the body to the morgue. To everyone who supported us and donated, may God bless you. To all the fans who stood by him, may God continue to bless you,” he said.

    He further noted that information about his funeral would be made public at a later time.

    “I will share the rest of the arrangements with you. We appreciate everyone who showed up for him. May God forgive Okemesi and grant him eternal rest,” he added.

    Click on link below to watch video;

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVJioelCIC0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

    Nollywood actor Duro Micheal also died last year.

    The news was shared in a social media post by Nigerian film producer Stanley Ontop.

    The deceased is said to have been bedridden for a period of time before his demise.

    Details of the exact cause of his death are not yet known; however, his colleagues have confirmed that he had struggled with his health in recent months.

    “Nollywood actor Duro Michael has kicked the bucket. He died a few days ago after battling a terminal illness. May his soul rest in peace,” Stanley Ontop, in his tribute, stated.

    Months ago, renowned Nollywood actor and distinguished academic, Dr. Columbus Irosanga, sadly passed away.

    Actress Hilda Dokubo announced the news on her Instagram account on Thursday.

    In her heartfelt message, she wrote, “There can’t be a shortage of Angels in heaven that the few here are called home like this na! This one is heavy on Uniport, Rivers State, Nollywood.”

    She continued, “Our uncle Coli @colu_mbusirisoanga has gone to be with the Lord. Ikoli eh dein na mu.”

    Originating from Okrika in Rivers State, Dr. Irosanga became a household name for his compelling performances as chief priests in Nollywood films.

    He is especially remembered for his unforgettable portrayal of “Igbudu” in the 2001 hit film, Isakaba.

    His extraordinary acting skills garnered him numerous prestigious awards, such as Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Best Actor in a Drama at the City People Entertainment Awards, Most Promising Actor in Nigeria at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), and Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Best of Nollywood Awards.

    Beyond his film career, Dr. Irosanga was a respected senior lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, where he played a pivotal role in mentoring many budding actors.

    He is survived by his spouse and children, though the circumstances surrounding his death remain undisclosed. His passing represents a profound loss to both the academic and entertainment sectors in Nigeria.

    In 2024, veteran Nollywood actor Emmanuel France passed away at the age of 80, leaving a void in the entertainment world.

    The circumstances surrounding his death were not disclosed at the time.

    The sad news was confirmed by filmmaker Femi Ogedengbe, who honored France’s memory in a heartfelt social media tribute.

    Ogedengbe reflected on the joy of collaborating with him on various projects, including a notable trip to Tanzania in 2006.

    Together, they worked on several films, such as Cross My Sin, She is My Sister, and The Director.

    Born in Ghana, France was widely admired for his gentlemanly nature, humility, and respect for others.

    His infectious warmth and vibrant personality endeared him to both colleagues and fans alike, making him a cherished figure in Nollywood.

    One of his lifelong aspirations was to produce the film Ghana Must Go, a project that remained close to his heart but sadly never materialized.

    Throughout his prolific career in Nollywood, France’s wit, charisma, and immense talent made him a beloved actor.

    His passing represents a great loss to the Nigerian film industry, and he will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and work with him.

    France leaves behind a lasting legacy of elegance, professionalism, and invaluable contributions to African cinema.

    Right around the same year, the legendary Joe Zulu Adigwe, a titan of the Nigerian film industry, reportedly bid adieu to this mortal coil, leaving behind a legacy that’ll be remembered as long as there are screens to watch movies on.

    The exact cause of his departure from this world remained a mystery, with his family keeping tight-lipped on the matter. But one thing’s for sure: his absence has left a Zulu-shaped hole in the hearts of fans and fellow actors alike.

    From the silver screen to the small screen, Zulu Adigwe made his mark with his unforgettable performances in countless Nollywood flicks. Whether he was making us laugh, cry, or sit on the edge of our seats, he knew how to command attention and steal the show.

    But it’s not just his acting chops that’ll be sorely missed; it’s the warmth, the charisma, and the sheer presence he brought to every role. The outpouring of love and tributes flooding in from fans and colleagues is a testament to the impact he had on so many lives.

    As we bid farewell to this Nollywood icon, we can’t help but reflect on the other stars who’ve left us too soon. Since the dawn of 2024, the stage lights have dimmed for several other beloved actors, each leaving behind a trail of memories and a profound sense of loss.

    So, let’s take a moment to remember those who’ve taken their final bow, leaving us with nothing but their cinematic legacies to cherish. The list includes the venerable Olofa Ina [Deji Aderemi], the radiant Ethel Ekpe, the vibrant Sisi Quadri, and the ever-comical Mr. Ibu, and most recently, the strong and fierce Junior Pope. Their names may have left the credits, but they’ll forever remain etched in the annals of Nollywood history.

  • Abesim: Ex-footballer who killed and kept minor’s remains in fridge sentenced to life

    Abesim: Ex-footballer who killed and kept minor’s remains in fridge sentenced to life

    The High Court in Accra’s Criminal Court 1 has handed former footballer Richard Appiah a life sentence for the murder of two teenagers, Louis Agyemang, 12, and Stephen Sarpong, 15 and for storing one victim’s remains in a refrigerator.

    The sentence follows a unanimous guilty verdict by a seven-member jury in the Abesim murder trial, where Appiah was found responsible for the killings of 12-year-old Louis Agyemang Jr. and 15-year-old Stephen Sarpong in the Bono Region.

    The verdict was delivered on Monday, February 23, 2026, after both the prosecution and defence presented their final addresses to the jury. Justice Ruby Aryeetey, who presided over the case, then provided a summing-up before the jury reached its decision.

    Court records show that the murders took place in August 2021, with the victims’ bodies later discovered in a locked room at Appiah’s residence. One body was found lying in the room, while the other had been placed inside a refrigerator.

    A pathologist testified that one boy died from strangulation and the other from severe blood loss. Appiah admitted to causing the deaths but sought to defend himself on the grounds of insanity, claiming he suffered from schizophrenia at the time and did not comprehend the nature or wrongfulness of his actions.

    The court heard that Appiah underwent psychiatric evaluation, and though initially declared unfit for trial, he was later deemed fit to stand.

    Prosecution lawyers, however, argued that Appiah acted deliberately. They pointed to evidence showing he concealed the bodies, attempted to destroy evidence, and even participated in search efforts, actions the state said indicated calculated intent and awareness of wrongdoing.

    During the trial, the prosecution called five witnesses. Appiah testified in his own defence and brought forward one witness, his father, to support his case.

    His trial commenced on March 14, 2024, after the date was set at a Case Management Conference held on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, before Justice Ruby Aryeetey.

    The prosecutors used several pieces of evidence in the case. These included statements the accused person gave to investigators after being officially cautioned, medical reports showing the cause of death of the victims, pictures of body parts and burnt objects, and a formal statement of the charges against the accused.

    In 2023, Abesim Township in the Sunyani Municipality was in a state of grief and sorrow when the Dormaa Traditional Council announced the death of Barima Kumi Acheaw II, the town’s chief on Saturday.

    According to the Council, Barima Acheaw II, also the Kyidomhene (chief in charge of crowd) of the Dormaa Traditional Areal, died on September 30, 2022, after short illness.

    He was 70 and reigned for 19 years and left behind a wife and six children.

    Scores of mourners clad in mourning cloth, red armbands, and black headgear could not hold back their tears when Barima Atosi Ababio, the Sumankwaahene (chief in charge of health), broke the news of the death of the chief at the Abesim Palace.

    “As tradition demands, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, the Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area, has asked me to inform you that Barima Acheaw II went for medical treatment, but he could not return and joined his ancestors,” he stated.

    The solemn gathering was greeted with grief and sorrow as the people wailed uncontrollably, amid the sporadic firing of muskets by some traditional warriors.

    Describing the late chief as development-oriented, Nana Kyei Nketiah, the chief of the Adonten royal family of Abesim, later told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that Barima Acheaw II had played an instrumental role in the development of the Abesim Township and the Dormaa Traditional Area.

    Nana Nketiah said the late chief reigned for 19 years between 2003 and 2022.

    Key among Barima Acheaw II’s achievements, he said, were the construction of the Abesim Police Station, the Ghana National Fire Service command, the Abesim Health Clinic and a maternity block, as well as the Abesim Senior High School and a market.

    Nana Nketiah said that in consultation with Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Badu II, the Abesim Divisional Council had set up a committee to oversee the successful organisation of the final funeral rites of the late chief, which were slated for March 23 to March 27, 2023.

    “The best way we could appreciate the immeasurable contribution of our chief towards the development of the area was to endeavour to give him a befitting burial, as he joined his ancestors, and we were determined to do so because Barima Acheaw II had really paid his dues,” he stated.

  • Mahama urged to probe alleged administrative malpractice in Anloga Schools

    Mahama urged to probe alleged administrative malpractice in Anloga Schools

    Concerned teachers and parents in the Anloga Municipal District have formally petitioned President John Mahama, urging him to take immediate action over what they describe as administrative misconduct, intimidation, and poor management within basic schools in the area.

    The petition, endorsed by more than ten teachers and parents, alleges that the District Director has breached established educational procedures as well as the Teachers’ Code of Conduct (Revised June 2017).

    According to the petitioners, the alleged conduct is weakening the standard of teaching, affecting student outcomes, and lowering staff morale, with possible long-term consequences for the quality of basic education in the municipality.

    In their petition, they accuse the District Director of taking over the setting of end-of-term examinations, a responsibility traditionally handled by classroom teachers.

    They also allege irregularities in the management of examination fees and quotas, claiming that substantial amounts including GH¢16,000, GH¢15,000, GH¢12,000, GH¢10,000 and GH¢9,000 per term per school have been channelled to the Director and external service providers.

    The petition further claims that outside service providers have been engaged to prepare examination questions described as non-standard, with personal or financial interests allegedly placed above students’ academic welfare. Teachers and headteachers who question these practices are said to face intimidation, including transfers and salary suspensions.

    The document also raises concerns about selective and reportedly improper transfers, which it says have left some schools severely understaffed, with as few as five to eleven teachers handling all classes. It adds that students who are unable to fully pay examination fees are allegedly prevented from writing their end-of-term exams, causing emotional distress.

    The petitioners state that an increasing number of teachers are seeking voluntary transfers to senior high and vocational institutions to escape what they describe as a hostile working environment, a trend they believe is weakening foundational education in the district. In some instances, headteachers are said to have engaged SHS graduates to fill teaching gaps, with parents reportedly asked to contribute toward their salaries.

    They argue that students have suffered significantly under the current system. Citing available reports, the petitioners claim that nearly 97 percent of learners have failed terminal examinations over the past nine to ten years. They further contend that high-performing students have seen their results decline to average levels due to a mismatch between classroom instruction and examination content.

    The petition also suggests that students’ motivation and study habits have deteriorated, with limited follow-up from the Directorate to assess and improve academic performance.

    Experienced teachers are said to feel discouraged and excluded from the examination-setting process, while newly posted staff reportedly struggle to build competence in that area. Headteachers, according to the petition, risk transfers if they fail to meet expected examination quotas, and those responsible for marking and preparing reports allegedly receive little financial recognition.

    At a teachers’ durbar, the Directorate reportedly defended its actions, arguing that some teachers fail to properly apply Bloom’s Taxonomy when setting examination questions and asserting that it has the authority to set exams in a manner similar to the West African Examinations Council. The petitioners, however, maintain that concerns about examination standards could be addressed through targeted professional development programmes and strengthened Professional Learning Communities. They also argue that WAEC operates under a defined statutory framework, unlike the present district-level intervention.

    The petitioners are calling for a prompt, independent and impartial investigation into the District Director’s conduct, appropriate sanctions where wrongdoing is established, and redress for affected teachers and learners. They are also demanding protection for whistle-blowers and strict enforcement of the Teachers’ Code of Conduct and relevant educational regulations. Additionally, they are appealing for urgent measures to restore transparency, fairness and accountability within the district’s basic education system.

    Copies of the petition have been forwarded to the Minister for Education, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, the Attorney-General, and leaders of teacher unions including the Ghana National Association of Teachers, the National Association of Graduate Teachers and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers Ghana.

    The signatories expressed confidence that the President will act decisively to protect the integrity and standards of education in the Anloga Municipal District.

    More than 100 students of the University of Ghana, Legon, were penalised for flouting the school rules.

    According to reports, for violating the university’s code of conduct, 14 students were on Monday suspended for two academic years after findings by the Disciplinary Committee.

    They were made not to participate in any academic or extracurricular activities during the suspension period.

    The affected students included Mr. Abdul-Yakini Lukman, Mr. Daniel Ansah, Mr. Daniel Deary, Mr. Eugene Boakye Jnr., Mr. Ismael Ali Sherrif, Mr. Kingsley Asante, Mr. Richmond Opoku, Mr. Vincent Appiah, Mr. Yakubu Awudu, Mr. Michael Tetteh Kenney, Mr. Ernest Zor, Mr. Yahaya Chentiwuni, Mr. Mohammed Guru and Mr. Joshua Asugbadek Atimbiok.

    For impersonation, three students were awarded Grade Z and expelled from the premier university.

    Mr. Christian Owusu Yeboah, Ms. Linda Attah Lambongyi were expelled for their involvement in impersonation during MKTG301: Principles of Marketing examination, whereas Ms. Doris Bikpe during UGBS103: Introductory French examination, contrary to Regulation 11.12 of the University of Ghana Regulations on Examinations.

    Some 97 students have been sanctioned, awarded grade Z, for engaging in examination malpractice after formal hearings.

    They were caught leaving the examination hall with the answer booklet, communicating and copying, displaying answers written on the body to another candidate, possessing unauthorized material (a provisional ID with written information on the back) and passing and receiving information (Written answers/notes on question paper/provisional ID cards).

    The university has underscored its commitment to maintaining discipline and protecting academic integrity, stating that it “remains resolute in ensuring a safe and honourable learning environment for all students.”

    In an unrelated event, the sixth inaugural lecture for the 2024/2025 academic year is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 26th June.

    The lecture will be delivered by Prof. Ajediran Idowu Bello, former Head of the Department of Physiotherapy.

    Prof. Bello will speak on the topic: “Beyond Movement: Addressing Musculoskeletal Disorders as a Public Health Imperative.”

    His lecture will examine the burden of musculoskeletal conditions and their far-reaching impact on public health systems.

    The session promises to be an insightful engagement on the intersections of physiotherapy, population health and healthcare delivery in Ghana and beyond.

    Members of the university community and the general public are warmly invited.

  • E/R: How a pack of noodles became a tool for exploiting schoolgirls at Jato

    E/R: How a pack of noodles became a tool for exploiting schoolgirls at Jato

    I had seen strange stories in my years as a journalist. But nothing prepared me for what I found in Jato Village in the Eastern Region.

    There was talk of a “laptop” in the village. Everyone mentioned it casually.

    Before you jump to conclusions, let me clarify. It’s not the sleek, modern machine with screens and keyboards commonly used in the cities.

    In Jato, the term ‘laptop’ refers to a pack of Indomie noodles. Yes, the same instant noodles, shaped like a laptop, and widely known locally as the Indomie laptop.

    I laughed at first. The idea seemed absurd, almost comical. But my laughter faded quickly when I heard the story behind it.

    Jato is a small community where most people earn a living producing Akpeteshie, and motorcycles, or okada, are the primary means of transport. On the surface, the okada riders are a lifeline, offering mobility in a place where walking long distances is part of daily life.

    But, in the same hands that provide this essential service, danger has quietly found its way.

    Some okada riders have begun exploiting the girls in the community, offering Indomie, a simple, cheap, everyday noodle meal, in exchange for sexual favors, earning them the local nickname “Indomie laptops.” What should have been a tool for progress has become a weapon of abuse.

    I was baffled by the revelation. How wicked can some people be? And then my mind kept turning to that Indomie. Just ordinary noodles. Does it even have vegetables, or meat, like we see in the cities? Probably not. And yet, to them, it must feel like a lifeline, a fragile moment of joy in lives too often hollowed by hunger and longing.

    The consequences are devastating. Teenage pregnancies are climbing every year. Childhoods are being stolen. Dreams are being destroyed.

    “Almost every year, we record pregnant candidates taking the BECE, and it is all because of the okada riders,” the Chief of Jato, Baffour Teitey Adjewi Narh III, revealed.

    Chief of Jato, Baffour Teitey Adjewi Narh III

    Now, the big question: why has a simple meal become a tool for exploitation?

    Speaking to some girls, they told me that getting enough to eat daily is a struggle. Others need money for sanitary pads they cannot afford. For them, a single pack of noodles was survival. A pair of sanitary pads was hope. Hence, to survive, they turn to the okada riders for help, often at the cost of their innocence.

    “The girls depend on the okada riders for mainly indomie, and also sanitary pads and other school items,” the Chief confirmed.

    Amid this heartbreaking reality, a glimmer of hope has emerged. Plan International Ghana, stepped in. The organization, as part of a global network working to promote children’s rights and gender equality, has launched its Rooting for Change project in Jato to challenge the cycle of exploitation and give these girls a fighting chance.

    The organization didn’t just bring aid; it brought knowledge, resources, and a lifeline that aimed to protect childhoods before they were lost.

    “In cocoa-growing communities, there are issues of child abuse and teenage pregnancies. With funding from Tony’s Chocolonely, a leading Dutch cocoa company, the Rooting for Change project was introduced to empower at least 800 adolescents, aged 10 to 19, by September 2026. With a focus on ensuring that at least 60% of the beneficiaries are female, the project seeks to provide comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services (SRHR) in a discrimination-free environment,” Project Manager, Bless Vieku said.

    The Chief of Jato, Baffour Teitey Adjewi Narh III, confirmed the change the project has brought to the community.

    “Since Plan International Ghana started this project, we have seen a real shift in the community. They have provided sanitary pads to schools to help the girls, and established centers where children who face abuse can safely report. They have stocked these centers with books and resources that teach girls about the risks of early sexual activity, unwanted pregnancies, and exploitation. Parents are now more aware of their responsibilities, and children know where to turn if they face challenges. As a result, some of the risky behaviors we used to see have reduced significantly,” he said.

    Girls in the community have also felt the difference firsthand. Mary, not her real name, shared her experience:

    “Before this project, I was dating plenty boys at a time. I didn’t understand the risks I was taking. But now, I know how dangerous it could be. I have learned to say no and protect myself. And I even advise my friends too,” she shared.

    Even the okada riders have noticed the change.

    Line Manager of Human Rights and Community Development at the Asentenapa Cocoa Cooperative Union, Ivan Ayivor, recounted that some riders recently approached him, frustrated that their previous influence over the girls no longer worked.

    “They said formerly, when we bring them laptops, the girls would follow them everywhere. Now, they don’t,” he highlighted.

    The impact is clear: when knowledge, resources, and community support come together, childhoods can be protected, and the cycle of exploitation can be broken.

    But how many communities like Jato are out there? How many villages are silently grappling with hunger, exploitation, and teenage pregnancies while the world looks the other way?

    The challenge is far from over. While Plan International Ghana’s Rooting for Change project is making a difference here, there are countless other communities where girls remain vulnerable, where their innocence is still being stolen for something as ordinary as a pack of noodles.

    I remember a moment in one of the schools, when of our cameramen flew a drone. The students went crazy, running to see it, eyes wide, pressing forward, laughing, shouting, unable to take their eyes off it. They even followed him all the way to the car as he packed it up.

    And it dawned on me how easily children are drawn to what feels precious, just like the Indomie that some are being exploited for. That simple pack of noodles, ordinary to us, is extraordinary to them. And it is precisely because of this fragility and curiosity that the stakes are so high.

    A senior journalist once told me, “A true journalist is one who makes impact.”

    And in that moment, I felt it. I am grateful to Plan International Ghana for inviting me to be part of their 2026 media training, a reminder that there is always more to be told, more voices to amplify, more lives to protect.

    Undoubtedly, some journalists across the country are already telling these important stories. But the reality before us demands even more; more voices, more presence, more persistence. Some stories are still unheard. Some communities are still unseen.

    It is in moments like these that the role of journalism becomes critical. We are the fourth estate, the fourth arm of government. Our microphones and platforms are not just tools. They are instruments of change. We must tell these stories, relentlessly and boldly, shining a light on injustice, and holding those who exploit the vulnerable accountable.

    We must go into these communities, listen to their voices, and report with courage. We must amplify the stories of children like Mary, whose lives can be altered by awareness and support, and ensure that no child feels invisible or voiceless.

    The author, Irene Adubea Aning

    This is more than reporting; this is impact-making. This is where journalism stops being about headlines and starts being about lives.

    The Indomie laptop may seem absurd at first glance. But behind its simplicity lies a story of hunger, desperation, and exploitation.

    And unless we speak out, unless we push, unless we report consistently, the cycle will continue. The story is out there, waiting for us to tell it, and it is our duty to ensure it is heard.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

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

  • Heat conditions, wiring, earthing contribute to excessive electricity consumption – ECG tells customers 

    Heat conditions, wiring, earthing contribute to excessive electricity consumption – ECG tells customers 

    The Communications Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), William Boateng, has asserted that heat conditions, wiring and earthing are most likely contributing factors to excessive electricity consumption affecting its customers.

    This was in response to concerns from sections of the public who have made claims of being overcharged and that their prepaid credit no longer lasts as long as before.

    In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Boateng advised customers to frequently check for possible electrical faults in their homes.

    “When the heat increases, someone can even double the use of cooling appliances. That alone can affect your consumption. Sometimes the issue may be with wiring or earthing. That is why we have certified electrical contractors who can check whether there is leakage or any fault affecting consumption,” he said.”

    Mr. Boateng urged customers who notice irregularities in their billing to report them directly to ECG for investigation, so that engineers can inspect the meter, review consumption patterns, and identify the cause of the problem.

    “We work with machines; it is not about defending anything. There could be a margin of error. If your bill exceeds what you expected or your credit finishes unusually fast, report it to ECG,” he urged, adding that, “When customers report, we can properly investigate, analyse the situation, and resolve it if there is a genuine problem,” he assured.

    Last year, the Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Professor Alex Dodoo, warned of the dangers associated with uncalibrated electricity meters which were in use nationwide.

    These uncalibrated metres being utilised by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), he said, did not guarantee the protection of consumers and also are not able to hold industry accountable for fair charges.

    Calibration of meters ensures that energy usage is measured accurately, preventing overbilling or underbilling for consumers.

    His comments came amid growing public concerns of overbilling, inconsistent power supply, and inefficiencies in the power-producing company’s services.

    Speaking at a stakeholder conference organized by the International Electrotechnical Commission yesterday, May 20, 2025 in Accra, Prof. Dodoo revealed that many ECG meters in circulation had not been calibrated or verified by the Ghana Standards Authority, as has been mandated by the National Instrumentation Regulation NI2413.

    “Very few of our meters have been calibrated and verified by the GSA. If the meter you are using has not been calibrated or verified by the Ghana Standards Authority, as required by NI2413, its accuracy is questionable. We simply cannot vouch for it,” he said.

    Prof. Dodoo said meters not being calibrated put consumers at risk of under- and overbilling.

    The NI2413 law mandates that all electricity meters in circulation must be calibrated and verified by the GSA to ensure accuracy, fair billing, and energy efficiency.

    Additionally, the Weights and Measures Decree, NRCD 326 of 1975, empowers the GSA to oversee legal metrology, ensuring that measuring instruments used in trade and industry meet standardized accuracy requirements.

    However, to resolve this, he mentioned that his outfit is currently working with the ECG and Public Utility and Regulatory Commission (PURC) to configure the millions of meters currently in circulation in the country.

    “The law states it must be verified and calibrated. Thankfully, we are working with ECG and PURC to ensure that all the millions of meters in Ghana are properly calibrated and verified by the GSA,” he noted.

    He also linked the issue to national development, emphasizing its importance in the government’s ambition to implement a 24-hour economy.

    “And I know it’s a very troubling issue. But as we support the President in rolling out a 24-hour economy, it’s important that we provide the quality infrastructure that will make the 24-hour economy succeed,” he concluded.

    In the same year, the government, through the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, approved the procurement of 200 new transformers for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to strengthen power transmission and distribution to major cities across the country.

    The sector minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, made information public on May 28, 2025 during the opening session of the 18th West Africa Mining and Power Exhibition (WAMPEX) at the Grand Arena and Accra International Convention Centre (AICC) in Accra.

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) made a formal request for 200 new transformers in April 2025, and after barely a month, the government gave the green light for the deployment of the transformers.

    “Despite the challenges we inherited, recent reports show that power generation has been very stable” What we need to do is improve the transmission and distribution network. In this regard, I have granted approval to ECG as a matter of urgency to inject about 200 transformers in our major capital cities in order to ensure that we not only generate power but we can distribute power to (sic) consumers effectively and efficiently,” Mr Jinapor said.

    Minister Jinapor noted that initial challenges with power generation have been stabilized, and Ghana is now exporting electricity to neighboring countries. The current focus is on improving power transmission and distribution systems.

    WAMPEX, the largest forum for mining and power industries in West Africa, attracted over 240 exhibitors from 30 countries and more than 5,000 visitors this year.

    The event, however provided a platform for industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss challenges, innovations, and future opportunities.

  • Mahama Cares builds state-of-the-art cardiology centres to diagnose, treat, operate on heart patients across 3 Teaching Hospitals

    Mahama Cares builds state-of-the-art cardiology centres to diagnose, treat, operate on heart patients across 3 Teaching Hospitals

    Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu has announced that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund ( Mahama Cares) is investing in building state-of-the-art cardiology centres across three Teaching Hospitals.

    According to a Facebook post by the Presidential Spokesman, the three centres will serve the purpose of diagnosing, treating and operating on heart patients.

    “A prime example is the on-going construction of state-of-the-art cardiology centres in three teaching hospitals: Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, and Tamale Teaching Hospital,” Mr Ofosu wrote.

    He adds that, these centres will be fully equipped with modern catheterization laboratories, operating theatres, intensive care units, consulting rooms, pharmacies, and dedicated oxygen plants.”

    This complements the fund’s ongoing support for patients with non-communicable diseases, helping them cover the high costs of treatment

    Government, through the Ministry of Health, on Wednesday, March 12 launched the Ghana Medical Care Trust, also known as Mahama Cares, as part of President John Mahama’s campaign promise.

    This program is designed to support people with chronic illnesses like kidney failure, diabetes, and other serious health conditions.

    At the launch event, Health Minister Kwabena Minta Akandoh said the initiative was long overdue. He pointed to World Health Organization (WHO) data showing that non-communicable diseases cause 42% of all deaths in Ghana.

    “Cardiovascular diseases alone make up 90% of these cases, while cancers account for 5%. Many of these deaths could be prevented if people had access to treatment, but the high cost makes it impossible for many,” he said.

    The Minister recognized the importance of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in providing healthcare but stressed the need to include specialized treatments.

    To fill this gap, he stated that Mahama Cares would provide financial support to individuals suffering from chronic illnesses.

    Former Director of Health Services, Dr. Koku Awoonor, praised the initiative, saying it would bring relief to many families struggling with medical expenses.

    “Non-communicable diseases put a heavy strain on families both psychologically and financially. Today’s event signals a new approach to making treatment more accessible,” he said.

    President Mahama committed to donating 50 percent of his annual salary to the Fund.

    Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang pledged four months of her salary to support the fund.

    The Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Ghana (PMAG) donated GHS2.2 million worth of medicines to contribute to the success of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as the MahamaCares.

    Items donated by the organization included pain medication, blood tonics, anti-malaria drugs, cardiovascular and anti-diabetic medicines, and asthma management treatments.

    While presenting the items, PMAG President Dr Samuel Tobbin, remarked that the donation seeks to restore “hope and dignity to the thousands of Ghanaians who rely on public health support.”

    “We believe that the MahamaCares Initiative presents a timely opportunity to demonstrate the power of local industry in driving national development,” he added.

    Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, expressed appreciation to PMAG for the donation, assuring the group that the medications would immediately be sent to the appropriate health facilities.

    Some 11 agencies under the Ministry of the Interior collectively donated GH¢1 million to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund at a short ceremony at Jubilee House in Accra.

    Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, who led the team for the donation, explained that it was a gesture of goodwill, as sickness knows no boundaries and can affect anyone.

    The breakdown of the contributions made by the agencies is as follows: Ghana Police Service (GH¢580,000), Ghana Immigration Service (GH¢100,000), Ghana National Fire Service (GH¢50,000), National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) (GH¢50,000), and the Ghana Prisons Service (GH¢50,000).

    Others include the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) (GH¢10,000), National Identification Authority (NIA) (GH¢50,000), Gaming Commission (GH¢50,000), Ghana Refugees Board (GH¢5,000), National Peace Council (GH¢5,000) and the Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (GH¢10,000).

    The Minister for the Interior and National Security, Alhaji Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, also made a personal contribution of GH¢50,000, while the Deputy Minister for the Interior, Mr. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, also donated GH¢30,000.

    President John Dramani Mahama expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of the Interior and its agencies for their support, emphasizing that the initiative is rooted in compassion, equity, and shared national responsibility.

    To ensure broad-based participation, the President has directed all government appointees to contribute the equivalent of at least one month’s salary to the Fund.

    In addition, the general public has been encouraged to make contributions through the short code *255#, accessible on all mobile networks.

    About Mahama Cares

    The “Mahama Cares” initiative, officially known as the Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund, was launched by the government to provide financial support for individuals suffering from chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney failure, and heart conditions. This initiative, introduced by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to ease the financial burden of treatment and improve access to healthcare for affected individuals.

    The initiative addresses a significant gap in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which does not cover many specialized treatments. To guide the fund’s operations, the government has inaugurated the Mahama Cares Technical Taskforce, a team of experts responsible for developing policies, creating a funding structure, and setting eligibility criteria for beneficiaries. The task force is chaired by Reverend Professor Emeritus Seth Aryeetey, a former provost of the College of Health Science

  • I changed my mind on retiring from acting after meeting President Mahama – Dr Likee

    I changed my mind on retiring from acting after meeting President Mahama – Dr Likee

    Renowned Ghanaian comic actor Ebenezer Akwasi Antwi, popularly known as Dr Likee, has disclosed that a surprising encounter with John Dramani Mahama made him reconsider his decision to exit the entertainment scene.

    In an interview with Giovani on Showbiz 360, the comedian said he had been seriously contemplating quitting acting and comedy after years of producing movies and online skits.

    He explained that his perspective shifted following a chance meeting with the President at an airport.

    What seemed like a simple exchange, he noted, turned into a defining experience that reignited his passion for the profession.

    “I wanted to retire, but after meeting President John Dramani Mahama and hearing him say he watches my skits, I was encouraged to continue,” Dr Likee stated.

    Akabenezer stated that the President welcomed him warmly and indicated that he regularly watches and enjoys his comedy productions.

    The comment, he said, came as a surprise and deeply moved him.

    He noted that receiving such affirmation from a national figure prompted him to rethink his plans to step away.

    The actor added that the encounter reminded him that his work carries impact and is valued by a wide audience, including people occupying high public office.

    Dr Likee further indicated that the encouragement inspired him to stay committed to the industry and keep creating content for his supporters.

    He said realising that someone with a busy national schedule still makes time to watch and enjoy his skits strengthened his resolve to continue.

  • A Plus secures 3-year media deal for Gomoa Easter Carnival

    A Plus secures 3-year media deal for Gomoa Easter Carnival

    The Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng, widely known as A Plus, has entered into a three-year media partnership with The Multimedia Group ahead of the Gomoa Easter Carnival.

    The deal was formalised on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the company’s office.

    Representatives of the carnival organisers and selected staff of The Multimedia Group were present at the brief signing ceremony.

    Addressing attendees, A Plus shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration and highlighted plans for the carnival, which is slated to run from April 2 to April 5, 2026.

    “With the strength and reach of The Multimedia Group, this carnival will not just happen. It will be seen, it will be heard, it will be felt across Ghana and beyond,” he noted.

    He added that the collaboration is expected to contribute significantly to the social and cultural development of communities within Gomoa.

    “Through television, radio and digital platforms this partnership will ensure that the young artistes in the Central Region will be seen nationwide, the food vendor will gain customers beyond Easter, the sponsor will gain visibility across the country, the community will gain confidence in its own greatness,” he said.

    The four-day celebration will include three consecutive days of live performances by leading Ghanaian musicians alongside up-and-coming acts from the locality.

    The programme will further feature a barbecue and bonfire gathering, painting activities, an art display, a food fair, masquerade performances and a colourful durbar.

    The Chief Operations Officer of The Multimedia Group, Ken Ansah, pledged the company’s unwavering support in ensuring extensive coverage of the event.

    “We will give our support, we commit fully to supporting this initiative, it is huge, it has a strong and great future, it has a future in the Gomoa area, but it also goes into areas of jobs and employment, and the bigger part of entertainment where we know that a lot of value sits,” he said.

    President of the Ghana Journalists Association and Chair of the Gomoa Easter Carnival planning committee, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, was also present at the event.

    He assured patrons of high-quality programming and seamless organisation for the celebration.

    “We have been able to bring together the best minds in entertainment [for this event].”

    A full outline of events lined up for the Gomoa Easter Carnival will be formally unveiled at a press launch set for February 28, 2026.

  • Accra, Kumasi Premium Passport Application Centres closed

    Accra, Kumasi Premium Passport Application Centres closed

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the Premium Passport Application Centres located in Accra and Kumasi will cease operations from February 20, 2026.

    In a statement released on Monday, February 23, the Ministry indicated that the directive impacts all individuals who rely on those facilities, especially applicants whose requests are yet to be completed.

    “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform the general public of the closure of the Premium Passport Application Centres in Accra and Kumasi effective 20th February, 2026.”

    Clients affected by the development have been encouraged to continue their application processes at the Regional Passport Application Centres.

    “All passport applicants, particularly clients with pending applications at the afore-mentioned Premium Passport Application Centres, are hereby advised to access the Regional Passport Application Centres for the processing of their applications or contact the Passport Office Client Service Unit on 0302-754-200 for assistance,”

    The Ministry further stressed that the shutdown of the premium facilities will not affect service standards, reiterating its resolve to ensure efficient passport delivery across the country.

    “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to take this opportunity to assure the general public of its commitment to deliver quality public service,” the statement ended.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Queen heads to court after revocation of Miss Intercontinental Ghana

    Queen heads to court after revocation of Miss Intercontinental Ghana

    A medical doctor and professional model, Chiaky Otuteye, has taken legal action against Cloudz Entertainment, organisers of Miss Intercontinental Ghana, following the revocation of her title weeks after she was crowned.

    The matter is slated for hearing on Tuesday, February 23, 2026.

    Speaking in an interview with Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z, Chiaky recounted how her crown was withdrawn after she had won the Miss Intercontinental Ghana pageant on November 8, 2025.

    She explained that the title was subsequently handed to another contestant over what organisers described as “unforeseen circumstances”.

    She said she later received a call from the Vice President of Cloudz Entertainment requesting her presence at an emergency meeting, accompanied by her mother.

    “They emphasised that when I am coming I should bring my crown and sash. That was when I got fully suspicious because they said it was an official meeting. Initially I was suspicious but then I felt there would be something fishy.”

    According to her, she was presented at the meeting with printed email exchanges between the organisers and their international partners.

    “Apparently, the international organisation was saying that they had received some emails from some concerned people that I did not meet their standards for the international pageant. And based on this they had made a decision to disqualify me,” she said.

    Chiaky stated that when she sought clarification on the specific standards she allegedly failed to meet, she was shown a section of a document listing poise, beauty, charm, intelligence and body.

    “With all these things they were very subjective. The only objective ones were that they said one should be a natural born female which I am, you should also be fully a Ghanaian national. I am fully Ghanaian. I also met the body requirements,” she said.

    She further disclosed that before the meeting, she had faced online trolling after a video recorded by the event’s official blogger was circulated on social media. The comments, she said, targeted her physical appearance and included harsh and disparaging remarks.

    In a separate press release, the organisers announced that Chiaky would no longer represent Ghana at the 53rd Miss Intercontinental pageant scheduled for January 14 to 31, 2026, in Egypt. They stated that “due to unforeseen circumstances, as a result, we have made a difficult decision to appoint a new Queen as our representative to represent Ghana.”

    The statement indicated that the newly appointed queen would be preparing “tirelessly to represent Ghana with pride and dignity” and expressed confidence in her ability to excel at the international competition. The organisers added that they valued public support and would share further updates on the new representative’s preparations.

    Cloudz Entertainment has yet to respond directly to the claims Chiaky made during her appearance on Showbiz A-Z.

    After several decades of existence, Miss Ghana which was launched to propagate Ghana’s cultural values and beautiful diversity to protect our heritage and our culture has been dogged by controversy leaving the brand tattered and overtaken by Miss Malaika.

    The Miss Ghana Pageant has been mired in controversy with allegations of pimping of girls and the use of the so-called Queens to solicit for sponsorship with strict targets.

    Past Queens have alleged that fundraising targets no matter how it is achieved tend to influence who eventually wins.

    Miss Ghana franchise owners, Exclusive Events Ghana Limited headed by Miss Ghana 2004, one Inna Patty has herself been considered controversial, according to former Queens.

    The Miss Ghana has been repeatedly accused of being an “escort agency” by former contestants some of whom were “stripped” of the crown after exposing the pageant.

    According to Antoinette Delali Kemavor, one of the beauty queens, Inna Patty, the organizer of the pageant told her to be ‘sweet’ and ‘acceptable’ of anything a man they were seeking sponsorship from would demand of her.

    First runner-up of the pageant in 2019 Sarah Odei Amoani, decided to resign due to such demands made of her.

    Margaret Dery, Miss Ghana 2017 had earlier resigned too!

    After taking to Twitter to describe Miss Ghana Beauty Pageant as a big SCAM, Miss Margaret Dery, the 2017 Winner of Miss Ghana Beauty Pageant finally resigned.

    Miss Ghana 2010 – Stephanie Karikari, Miss Ghana 2015 – Antoinette Delali Kemavor, Miss Ghana 2013 – Giuseppina Nana Akua Baafi and first-runner-up – Margaret Kuma-Mintah – have all resigned after their participation in the pageant, most with sordid allegations against Inna Patty for trying to pimp them for money.

    Miss Malaika which marked 20 years anniversary this year crowned Zakiya Ahmed as its Emerald Queen, becoming the first Hijab-wearing Queen in the history of the pageant.

    Miss Malaika has succeeded where Miss Ghana failed, since at least 2004 — being scandal-free and fulfilling its unconditional promises to the Queens since 2002.

    The Miss Malaika is produced by Charter House Productions and mostly airs on Ghana television station TV3, GhOne TV as well as DSTV channel Africa Magic. The pageant is produced as a 12- to 13-week reality show and is the first beauty pageant show to be aired as a reality series in Ghana before being joined by TV3’s own Ghana’s Most Beautiful, which is a region and strictly culturally based.

    Most beauty pageant is now all about empowering young women to positively impact society as well as fulfil their aspirations.

    From the conception of Miss Malaika show 2002, it has been presented to the audience as a reality TV show which allows for the viewers to vote for their favourite contestant to be crowned Miss Malaika Ghana.

    Each week, the contestants are given tasks to perform which range from performances to organizing events. This is then assessed by a panel of judges who have a certain degree of power in selecting successful candidates and eliminating others.

    The Miss Malaika pageant is open to single females between the ages of 18 or those who would turn 18 the present year and 26. Hopeful contestants need to be sizes 10 and 14 and must be of “African” origin. Other requirements are that the ladies are high school graduates, have no breast implants and no height restrictions.

    However, the pageant has reviewed some of its requirements discounting body sizes and almost eliminated Bikini modeling requirements.

  • Most musicians cannot fill large stadiums like Northern musicians do – Rapper Maccasio

    Most musicians cannot fill large stadiums like Northern musicians do – Rapper Maccasio

    Ghanaian rapper Maccasio has asserted that numerous Accra-based artistes would find it difficult to achieve the same success Northern musicians have in drawing large crowds.

    In an interview with MX24 TV on February 20, 2026, he remarked that roughly half of the artistes in Accra are unable to stage events on the scale of those organised by their counterparts from the Northern Region.

    “I can boldly say that 50% of the artistes in Accra cannot do the kind of shows that we’re doing. When they rank us, they might put them on top of us, but whenever we do shows in Accra at a place like Bukom Arena, we fill the arena and they don’t talk about it,” he said.

    According to him, despite their ability to pull large crowds even in Accra, Northern artistes receive little media recognition compared to their counterparts in the capital.

    “I think we need to strategize and pay the media to recognize us. We had wanted the media in Accra to also take us as part of the Ghanaian artistes. They see us as just Northern artistes,” he shared.

    Maccasio also claimed that the media frequently neglects to promote events outside Accra, yet gives extensive attention to artists based in the city.

    He disclosed that his team is preparing another large-scale show later this year, expressing confidence that they will once again attract huge audiences.

    “Whenever we play shows in Accra, the media don’t support us, but when it’s artistes from Accra, they go all out. We also deserve some attention. We are planning to do another show this year,” he added.

    In 2023, rapper Amerado, born Derrick Sarfo Kantanka, opened up about his struggles to secure shows in Ghana, emphasizing that he shouldn’t be pressed by fans to perform at the O2 Arena.

    Recently, there has been a growing debate among music enthusiasts in Ghana about the contrasting success of Nigerian and Ghanaian musicians. Nigerian young artists are reportedly filling stadiums internationally, while similar achievements are not as evident among even prominent Ghanaian artists.

    Addressing this matter on United Television in Accra, Amerado asserted that Ghanaian artists could indeed gather a large audience at venues like the O2 Arena. However, he pointed out that the lack of comparable support for Ghanaian artists, unlike their Nigerian counterparts, renders the comparison moot.

    According to Amerado, if the necessary backing and support were provided, Ghanaian artists would have the potential to attract significant crowds wherever they perform.

    “In Ghana, we are thinking of pushing one artiste out and promoting a new one. You’ll produce a hit song, and it will last for one week. The music lovers here have a problem with every artiste. They say Fameye produces funeral songs, and when Black Sherif came, they said he shouts too much. How will the artiste be motivated?

    “We need support to be able to do some of these things. Have you checked the numbers when we organize shows in the country? A Ghanaian will rather go to a wedding or funeral than come to a show because they will give them food at the wedding and funeral.”

    “We as artists are struggling, so we can’t also carry the burden of filling the O2 arena. We are not even getting shows to perform at in Ghana let alone International gigs. How many shows did I perform on in December to think of filling the O2 arena?” he said.

    In 2024, the CEO of Ghana Music Awards UK, Nii Ofori Tackie, popularly known as Alordia forecasted that it will take approximately two years for a Ghanaian artist to achieve a sell-out performance at the prestigious O2 Arena in the United Kingdom.

    This projection followed the resounding success of the Indigo O2 concert headlined by Ghanaian rapper Medikal on May 3, 2024.

    The event, which boasted a stellar lineup including Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, and Bisa Kdei, sold out to enthusiastic fans.

    Further affirming this trend, the subsequent sold-out Legends Night concert featuring Highlife legend Daddy Lumba, alongside Shatta Wale and Medikal, highlighted the growing prominence of Ghanaian music on the global stage.

    During an interview on Joy Prime on May 7, Alordia emphasized the need for sustained promotion over the next one to two years to build a dedicated Ghanaian audience for such high-profile shows.

    He noted that while Ghanaian artists attract moderate attendance, Nigerian counterparts often draw larger crowds due to their broader appeal across African and Caribbean audiences.

    Alordia outlined the necessity for Ghanaian artists to expand their reach internationally, citing the example of Nigerian musicians who attract fans from diverse backgrounds familiar with their music.

    He emphasized the importance of penetrating foreign markets to fill venues like the O2 Arena with enthusiastic supporters.

    “We can do the O2 Arena, but we need another one and a half to two more years to do it. The reason is that Ghanaians come out for shows, but they don’t come out that much.

    “When Nigerian artistes are doing their shows, we get fans from other African countries like South Africa, Jamaica, Nigeria, Ghana, and Zimbabwe, all going to support them because their music cuts across those countries. They know the songs. So as soon as they hear Wizkid is coming, they know Wizkid’s songs, so, they will go,” he said.

    In essence, Alordia’s vision entails bridging cultural boundaries and leveraging global interest in African music to propel Ghanaian artists towards achieving monumental success on an international scale.

  • Togo tops African countries streaming my songs – Celestine Donkor

    Togo tops African countries streaming my songs – Celestine Donkor

    Ghanaian gospel musician Celestine Donkor has revealed that Togo leads the list of African countries streaming her music the most.

    Speaking on Hitz FM, she said, “Yes, Ghana is number three. Togo followed by Benin, then Ghana, and this happens with most of my songs.”

    Celestine further clarified that the trend shifts whenever she releases songs entirely in Twi.

    “I’ve noticed that when I do completely Twi songs, Ghana tops. But the moment you introduce some Ewe, then the conversation changes,” she explained.

    In 2023, young Ghanaian drill musician, Mohammed Ismail Sherif, also known as Black Sherif chalked another success with his latest song ‘Soja’ on the digital streaming platform, Audiomack.

    As you may remember, Black Sherif just released “Soja,” another banger on September 22, 2022, and the single has already made great waves across the country.

    The song’s release date was confirmed by Black Sherif, who was just nominated for a BET Award in the Best International Flow category.

    Since the release of the single, it has recorded a series of achievements and frankly we are not surprised.

    View this post on Instagram

    A post shared by Audiomack Africa (@audiomackafrica)

    The song recently peaked at number one on Ghana’s Apple music defeating Asake’s ‘Terminator’ after leading the charts for a couple of weeks.

    Black Sherif also celebrated after his ‘Soja’ surpassed 1 million views in 3 days on YouTube.

    Well, Blacko has reached another milestone with the song as it becomes the most streamed song on Audiomack this week.

    The list was posted on the digital streaming platform, Audiomack’s social media pages on September 27, 2022.

    The award-winning singer, who has dominated the field in his brief time in the music business, earlier revealed his upcoming album ‘THE VILLAIN I NEVER WAS’ will be available for purchase and streaming on all digital music platforms on Thursday, October 6, 2022, according to the details he shared via his official Apple Music account.

    The album, ‘The Villain I Never Was’, contains 14 tracks which include the ‘Second Sermon’ remix featuring Burna boy, ‘Kweku The Traveller’, and ‘Soja’.

    Black Sherif, has been on fire with his unmatched talent since breaking into the Ghana music industry in 2021 and is arguably the hottest artist in Ghana right now.

    The Empire Records signee has solidified his name by dropping some bangers that are leaving rent-free in our heads, with the likes of First Sermon, Second Sermon, Second Sermon remix, and Kwaku The Traveller, among others.

    The Barbie film has achieved remarkable success, emerging as the biggest film of the year so far in the US and Canada, according to distributor Warner Bros.

    It raked in an estimated $155 million (£120 million) during its opening weekend.

    In the same weekend, another new release, “Oppenheimer,” distributed by Universal Pictures, made $93.7 million (£72 million) in the US.

    These film successes are particularly noteworthy as cinemas have been facing challenges due to competition from streaming platforms.

    However, in the UK, both films created a surge in cinema attendance, with Vue reporting its busiest weekend in four years.

    The cinema chain, which operates in the UK and Ireland, saw a record number of admissions, with around half a million people flocking to Vue screens to catch the movies. “Barbie,” directed by Greta Gerwig, seems to be on track to become the biggest film of 2023 in the region, surpassing “Super Mario Bros.”

    Vue experienced 4,000 sold-out viewings for “Barbie” across the UK and Ireland, further highlighting the film’s popularity and success.

    On Twitter, one user said that it had been years since she had felt like going to the theatres to re-watch a movie, but Barbie had achieved that for her. She said it would “remain a timeless masterpiece over the years – ideas really are forever”.

    Before the films’ release, Odeon in the UK said more than 200,000 advance tickets had been bought and some 10,000 filmgoers were expected to see both the Barbie and Oppenheimer films during the opening weekend.

    Meanwhile, Vue cinema in the UK reported on Friday that Barbie’s pre-sale purchases were “higher than any other blockbuster released this year”. Admissions on Friday were the highest for any Friday since the pandemic – and the chain’s third biggest Friday ever.

    Oppenheimer, distributed by Universal Pictures, has performed exceptionally well in the UK and Ireland, grossing £8.05 million since its release on Friday.

    The film is expected to surpass the opening three-day earnings of Christopher Nolan’s other blockbuster films, including Interstellar, Dunkirk, and Inception.

    However, the premiere of Oppenheimer faced some challenges in July when strike action led stars to leave early due to grievances, including concerns about the increasing influence of artificial intelligence in the filmmaking and writing process in Hollywood.

    Internationally, Oppenheimer also achieved success, making $93.7 million (£75 million) in other markets, contributing to a global total of $174.2 million (£135 million), according to Universal Pictures’ reports.

  • Doreen Andoh should write a book, I’d love to read it – Nana Aba Anamoah

    Doreen Andoh should write a book, I’d love to read it – Nana Aba Anamoah

    Media personality and broadcaster Nana Aba Anamoah has urged celebrated radio presenter Doreen Andoh popularly known as the “Queen of the Airwaves,” to document her journey in a book.

    Nana Aba says she would be among the first to read it.

    “Doreen should be writing a book… because I would love to read that book,” she said in an interview on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z on Saturday, 21st February 2026.

    Nana Aba revealed that her admiration for Doreen Andoh began after she made a phone call as an ordinary young woman just out of secondary school.

    She has added Doreen Andoh, to her bucket list of interviewees, revealing that she became fascinated with her after she received a phone call shortly after leaving secondary school.

    “She spoke to me on the phone. I said, ‘Oh, I want to be a media person, but I don’t know what to do,’ and she gave me some advice that I don’t even remember, but it was her voice. It was so soothing on the phone, and I thought, ‘Oh, this woman is adorable,’” Nana Aba recounted.

    Despite crossing paths with Andoh several times throughout her decades-long career, Nana Aba disclosed that she has never shared the story of that life-changing phone call with Doreen.

    For Nana Aba, the driving force behind her desire to sit across from Doreen is to understand the secret behind her remarkable staying power. With Doreen Andoh surpassing three decades in broadcasting, Nana Aba said she remains in awe of how the mid-morning show host has sustained audience loyalty without losing relevance.

    “I don’t know how Doreen has done it… 30 years,” she remarked. “There isn’t a single time you tune into the radio and say, ‘Oh, my bad, I’m tuning off.’ You will listen from the beginning to the end. And she [Doreen] still has that power.”

    While hailing Doreen Andoh, Nana Aba criticised former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey, expressing her disappointment in his leadership.

    During a discussion on United Showbiz last year, the topic of Mark Okraku-Mantey’s hesitation to appear on the show surfaced. The former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture explained that he no longer sees the programme as focused on relevant entertainment issues, claiming it has shifted toward politics and other unrelated topics.

    The comments drew strong reactions from the panellists, with Nana Aba Anamoah sharply criticising Okraku-Mantey. She accused him of failing to address crucial challenges in the entertainment industry while in a position of influence.

    Earlier on Peace FM’s Entertainment Review, Okraku-Mantey had suggested renaming United Showbiz, arguing that the show no longer centred on showbiz matters. When asked by Peace FM’s Kwasi Abogye when he would appear on the programme, he said: “When we have proper conversations. Do you know that show is no longer showbiz? You need to change its name. I don’t have a problem with the show. When the ethics work over there, I’ll come. Now, I don’t know where I will fit in.”

    Responding to this on United Showbiz, Nana Aba Anamoah challenged his right to criticise the show. She questioned how Okraku-Mantey had used his own platform to tackle the issues he now highlights.

    “He said there are issues in the entertainment industry. How did he deal with that when he was a radio presenter for a very long time? How did he use his space? How did he use his space to deal with all those issues? He was given a position that could have allowed him to make the space he is complaining about better. What was his impact? It was zero. You know what? He sounds better when he is quiet. He shouldn’t talk about what people are doing in his space because he has not been impactful,” she said, visibly upset.

    While United Showbiz host Empress Gifty referred to Okraku-Mantey as “honourable,” Nana Aba Anamoah rejected the title, insisting he had no claim to it.

    “He is not an honourable. Don’t give people titles when they don’t own them. He is not a member of parliament. He has never been,” she fumed.

    Nana Aba justified her criticism of former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture,

    Speaking on Joy Prime’s Changes show on February 19, 2025, Nana Aba admitted that she has a “personal problem” with Okraku-Mantey, but not in the way many assumed.

    “Yes, I have a personal problem with him because if my taxes are used to pay your salary, it’s personal. If my taxes are used to fuel your car, it’s personal,” she said.

    Her comments come after she openly criticized Okraku-Mantey on United Showbiz on February 15, expressing frustration over what she described as his failure to uplift the creative arts industry.

    While some speculated that her critique stemmed from a personal feud, Nana Aba clarified that she and Okraku-Mantey are merely acquaintances and that her criticism was rooted in professional expectations.

    “I felt his comments were unnecessary. He’s been in the media before and doesn’t get to decide how a media station should run its show. But my main issue was my disappointment in him. For someone coming from this industry, I expected better. I expected him to move the creatives from point A to C, but unfortunately, he failed. So, my rant was born out of my disappointment in him,” she explained.

    Nana Aba noted that under Okraku-Mantey’s leadership, the creative industry continued to struggle, with many artists facing worsening conditions.

    Despite facing backlash, she remains firm in her stance, maintaining that Okraku-Mantey’s tenure was a letdown for the sector.

  • I will interview Multimedia’s Kwasi Twum before I die – Nana Aba Anamoah

    I will interview Multimedia’s Kwasi Twum before I die – Nana Aba Anamoah

    Media icon Nana Aba Anamoah has vowed to interview founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The Multimedia Group, Kwasi Twum before she departs from the land of the living.

    According to Nana Aba Anamoah in an interview on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z on Saturday, 21st February 2026, his dream may never come to pass, but she is resolute things will turn around for her good.

    “I know that will never happen… but you see, in this life, never say never. I know that day will come. It will come before the Lord Almighty calls me. I will interview that one,” she insisted.

    She has also added the “Queen of the Airwaves,” Doreen Andoh, to her bucket list of interviewees, revealing that she became fascinated with her after she received a phone call shortly after leaving secondary school.

    “She spoke to me on the phone. I said, ‘Oh, I want to be a media person, but I don’t know what to do,’ and she gave me some advice that I don’t even remember, but it was her voice. It was so soothing on the phone, and I thought, ‘Oh, this woman is adorable,’” Nana Aba recounted.

    Despite crossing paths with Andoh several times throughout her decades-long career, Nana Aba disclosed that she has never shared the story of that life-changing phone call with Doreen.

    For Nana Aba, the driving force behind her desire to sit across from Doreen is to understand the secret behind her remarkable staying power. With Doreen Andoh surpassing three decades in broadcasting, Nana Aba said she remains in awe of how the mid-morning show host has sustained audience loyalty without losing relevance.

    “I don’t know how Doreen has done it… 30 years,” she remarked. “There isn’t a single time you tune into the radio and say, ‘Oh, my bad, I’m tuning off.’ You will listen from the beginning to the end. And she [Doreen] still has that power.”

    So profound is this admiration that Nana Aba publicly urged the radio goddess to document her journey: “Doreen should be writing a book… because I would love to read that book.”

    While Doreen Andoh remains her top priority, Nana Aba also identified Kwasi Twum as her second dream interview subject. Despite doubts raised by the host, Kwame Dadzie, about the possibility of securing such an interview, Nana Aba stood her ground.

    While hailing Doreen Andoh, Nana Aba criticised former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey, expressing her disappointment in his leadership.

    During a discussion on United Showbiz last year, the topic of Mark Okraku-Mantey’s hesitation to appear on the show surfaced. The former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture explained that he no longer sees the programme as focused on relevant entertainment issues, claiming it has shifted toward politics and other unrelated topics.

    The comments drew strong reactions from the panellists, with Nana Aba Anamoah sharply criticising Okraku-Mantey. She accused him of failing to address crucial challenges in the entertainment industry while in a position of influence.

    Earlier on Peace FM’s Entertainment Review, Okraku-Mantey had suggested renaming United Showbiz, arguing that the show no longer centred on showbiz matters. When asked by Peace FM’s Kwasi Abogye when he would appear on the programme, he said: “When we have proper conversations. Do you know that show is no longer showbiz? You need to change its name. I don’t have a problem with the show. When the ethics work over there, I’ll come. Now, I don’t know where I will fit in.”

    Responding to this on United Showbiz, Nana Aba Anamoah challenged his right to criticise the show. She questioned how Okraku-Mantey had used his own platform to tackle the issues he now highlights.

    “He said there are issues in the entertainment industry. How did he deal with that when he was a radio presenter for a very long time? How did he use his space? How did he use his space to deal with all those issues? He was given a position that could have allowed him to make the space he is complaining about better. What was his impact? It was zero. You know what? He sounds better when he is quiet. He shouldn’t talk about what people are doing in his space because he has not been impactful,” she said, visibly upset.

    While United Showbiz host Empress Gifty referred to Okraku-Mantey as “honourable,” Nana Aba Anamoah rejected the title, insisting he had no claim to it.

    “He is not an honourable. Don’t give people titles when they don’t own them. He is not a member of parliament. He has never been,” she fumed.

    Nana Aba justified her criticism of former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture,

    Speaking on Joy Prime’s Changes show on February 19, 2025, Nana Aba admitted that she has a “personal problem” with Okraku-Mantey, but not in the way many assumed.

    “Yes, I have a personal problem with him because if my taxes are used to pay your salary, it’s personal. If my taxes are used to fuel your car, it’s personal,” she said.

    Her comments come after she openly criticized Okraku-Mantey on United Showbiz on February 15, expressing frustration over what she described as his failure to uplift the creative arts industry.

    While some speculated that her critique stemmed from a personal feud, Nana Aba clarified that she and Okraku-Mantey are merely acquaintances and that her criticism was rooted in professional expectations.

    “I felt his comments were unnecessary. He’s been in the media before and doesn’t get to decide how a media station should run its show. But my main issue was my disappointment in him. For someone coming from this industry, I expected better. I expected him to move the creatives from point A to C, but unfortunately, he failed. So, my rant was born out of my disappointment in him,” she explained.

    Nana Aba noted that under Okraku-Mantey’s leadership, the creative industry continued to struggle, with many artists facing worsening conditions.

    Despite facing backlash, she remains firm in her stance, maintaining that Okraku-Mantey’s tenure was a letdown for the sector.



  • Social Media reacts to MUSIGA’s GHS500 contribution to Yaw Sarpong’s family

    Social Media reacts to MUSIGA’s GHS500 contribution to Yaw Sarpong’s family

    The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has faced backlash on social media after donating GH¢500 to the family of late gospel musician Yaw Sarpong during his one-week observation.

    The memorial event was held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in Kumasi to honour the veteran singer.

    At the ceremony, MUSIGA presented GHS500 to the bereaved family as its contribution toward funeral preparations.

    The donation has since generated divided opinions online.

    While some social media users commended the union for demonstrating support and solidarity, others criticised the amount, arguing that it was too small and failed to reflect the stature and legacy of the celebrated gospel artiste.

    Critics maintained that Yaw Sarpong made significant contributions to Ghana’s music industry, particularly within the gospel community, and said the donation did not match the impact of his life’s work.

    Read the reactions below:

    Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician and founder of the Asomafo gospel group, Yaw Sarpong, has passed away.

    Confirmation of his death was given by his manager, Nana Poku Ashis, in an interview with Myjoyonline.com. Official details on the cause of death have not yet been released.

    His passing follows closely on the death of Maame Tiwa, a prominent member of the Asomafo group, whose loss shook the gospel music community about a month ago.

    Yaw Sarpong had been unwell for several years and had reduced his public appearances while undergoing treatment.

    He is widely recognised as a towering figure in Ghana’s gospel music landscape, having led Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo to national prominence. The group played a significant role in shaping contemporary Akan gospel music, earning respect for its rich lyrical depth and disciplined, doctrine-based musical style.

    Throughout his career, Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo released several well-known gospel songs, including Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa, which remain popular in churches across the country.

    In recognition of his contribution to gospel music, Yaw Sarpong received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

    Celebrated Ghanaian gospel musician Maame Tiwaa also passed away some weeks ago.

    According to reports by UTV, the veteran singer died in the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025. She is said to have passed on after a brief illness, although the exact cause of her sudden death has not yet been disclosed.

    Maame Tiwaa was widely admired for her long-standing collaboration with Yaw Sarpong and the Asomafo Band, a partnership that earned her a revered place in Ghana’s gospel music community.

    After four decades in the industry, she recently earned her first nomination at the 3Music Awards 2021, marking a significant milestone in her career.

    Known for her distinctive and angelic voice, Maame Tiwaa featured in several popular songs, including Tenabea Foforo, Yen Nka Nkyere Yen Agya, Sumenaso, and other well-loved gospel hits.

    Since news of her passing broke, social media platforms have been flooded with tributes from fans, with many expressing deep sorrow and extending condolences to Yaw Sarpong and the entire Asomafo family.

    The musician’s family has not yet released an official statement. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

    Veteran actor, director and cultural advocate William Addo, widely known by his stage name Akpatse, is dead.

    According to reports, he died on November 22, 2025, after years of battling severe health complications.

    Veteran actor William “Akpatse” Addo, was loved for his roles on GTV’s Thursday Theatre. His comic talent and stage presence, became a household name in Ghanaian theatre and television.

    Akpatse was a trained scholar, holding a degree in Drama from the University of Ghana and a master’s in Acting and Directing from the University of Leeds.

    He held important roles in the arts, including Director at the National Theatre and Director of Programmes at the National Commission on Culture, and taught many of Ghana’s top actors as a university lecturer.

    In recent years, he battled serious health problems, including vision loss from glaucoma and cataracts.

    His Funeral arrangements will however, be announced soon.

    Last year, renowned Ghanaian actor, Vincent McCauley, famous for his role in the beloved 90s television series “Things We Do For Love,” passed away.

    The news of his demise was confirmed by his colleague actor and friend, Adjetey Annang.

    Known as Max in the TV series, Vincent McCauley is reported to have died on Thursday, January 18, 2024. The cause of his death is currently unknown.

    Vincent McCauley’s notable roles also include appearances in movies such as “Games People Play,” “Fortune Island,” “Office Palava,” “Living With Trisha: House of Secrets,” and “The Idiot and I.”

    Since the announcement of his death, tributes have been pouring in from various sources.

    Adjetey Annan, also known as Pusher, a rival to Max in the 90s series, expressed his sorrow, saying, “Rivals on set ‘Pusher & Max’ since 1999 but cool guys off set. Thank you for being a part of the family and paying your dues very well. Rest in perfect peace brother🙏 Our deepest condolences to the family.”

    Numerous other celebrities have taken to social media to share their condolences.

    R.I.P to a Ghanaian screen legend Vincent McCauley💔 pic.twitter.com/6fiS1Jnqtc— Silverbird Cinemas Ghana (@SilverbirdGhana) January 18, 2024

    In February this year, celebrated actor Mawuli Semevo died after a fire accident.

    The 63-year-old veteran actor’s unfortunate incident happened on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital, where he was receiving treatment after suffering burns.

    On February 8, 2025, Judith Addison of Beyond Burns International, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to providing advocacy and support for burn survivors, reported that Mawuli was in critical condition.

    “Beyond Burns International got an SOS that something unfortunate has happened. We came here today, and veteran actor Mawuli Semevo has been involved in a severe fire accident. I came here to see him, and his life is hanging in the balance,” Judith said in the video report posted on their social media pages.

    According to her, Mawuli was sleeping in his house when it caught fire.

    “He has suffered burns up to 44% of his body. He has respiratory injuries and cannot breathe properly. This is very serious. From his head to his legs. Everywhere caught fire, and he has lost all his hair,” she further stated.

    The report was later corroborated by actors such as Ken Fiati and Edinam Atatsi.

    Mawuli Semevo is known for his immaculate acting skills both on stage and in movies.

    He has played roles in movies such as ‘ Harvest at 17’, ‘A Stab in the Dark’, ‘Escape of Love’, ‘Like Cotton Twines’ and ‘The Good Old Days: The Love of AA.’

    Months ago in Nigeria, renowned Nollywood actor and distinguished academic, Dr. Columbus Irosanga, sadly departed.

    Actress Hilda Dokubo announced the news on her Instagram account on Thursday.

    In her heartfelt message, she wrote, “There can’t be a shortage of Angels in heaven that the few here are called home like this na! This one is heavy on Uniport, Rivers State, Nollywood.”

    She continued, “Our uncle Coli @colu_mbusirisoanga has gone to be with the Lord. Ikoli eh dein na mu.”

    Originating from Okrika in Rivers State, Dr. Irosanga became a household name for his compelling performances as chief priests in Nollywood films.

    He is especially remembered for his unforgettable portrayal of “Igbudu” in the 2001 hit film, Isakaba.

    His extraordinary acting skills garnered him numerous prestigious awards, such as Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Best Actor in a Drama at the City People Entertainment Awards, Most Promising Actor in Nigeria at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), and Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Best of Nollywood Awards.

    Beyond his film career, Dr. Irosanga was a respected senior lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, where he played a pivotal role in mentoring many budding actors.

    He is survived by his spouse and children, though the circumstances surrounding his death remain undisclosed. His passing represents a profound loss to both the academic and entertainment sectors in Nigeria.

  • Ghana needs a system that punishes women who engage in paternity fraud – A Plus

    Ghana needs a system that punishes women who engage in paternity fraud – A Plus

    The Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus, has disclosed his intention to introduce a private member’s bill aimed at sanctioning women found guilty of paternity fraud.

    During an appearance on Prime Time with George Quaye, he stated that there should be “a legislation that prescribes punishment for people who engage in paternity fraud”.

    A Plus argued that in some instances, women are conscious of having had more than one partner within a particular timeframe. He noted that “women knows that between a certain period they were having something to do with one or two men”.

    To support his position, he referenced what he described as observations from a medical facility, saying “out of 10 women who come for DNA with their kids about four do not belong to the men”.

    The lawmaker contended that penalties for paternity fraud must be stringent, especially when the woman involved is married. In his words, “the punishment must be more if she’s married than a single woman”.

    He highlighted what he sees as the psychological and financial strain faced by men who unknowingly raise children who are not biologically theirs. He pointed to cases where “a woman goes to court with her husband and three kids or four kids do not belong to the man”.

    A Plus insisted that there is “no justification” for a woman to mislead a man regarding the paternity of a child, even in situations where she may have endured stigma over infertility. He called for penalties “if a DNA test is done and it is discovered that you the woman went to cheat or for whatever reason the child is not your husband’s and you hadn’t declared it early on”.

    He also referred to what he described as the extreme emotional toll such revelations can have, recalling a situation where “somebody committed suicide somewhere outside” after discovering that the children he had brought up were not his biological offspring.

  • Fiifi Coleman  to revive ‘I Told You So’ as stage play in March 

    Fiifi Coleman  to revive ‘I Told You So’ as stage play in March 

    Ghanaian actor and director Fiifi Coleman is preparing to bring back the timeless story ‘I Told You So’ to the stage at the National Theatre of Ghana in March 2026.

    The play is scheduled to run from March 5 to March 8, with several performances lined up across the four days. Organisers anticipate a strong turnout, citing the story’s enduring cultural significance and its impressive lineup of performers.

    The stage production has its origins in Ghana’s concert party tradition and was later adapted into a film in 1970 under the direction of Egbert Adjesu. That film went on to become a milestone in Ghana’s movie industry, earning praise for its wit, satire and compelling social themes. The narrative itself drew inspiration from the works of renowned dramatist Bob Cole and continues to stand as one of Ghana’s most impactful stories.

    This new staging is being presented by Fiifi Coleman Productions in partnership with the National Theatre. The aim is to reintroduce audiences to core Ghanaian values while boosting interest in local theatre and authentic storytelling.

    The storyline follows Kobina Jones, who returns to Ghana after spending years overseas, hoping to reconnect with love, family and his sense of identity. Instead, he is confronted with surprising truths that force him to rethink his views on relationships, tradition and duty. Central themes include marriage and romance, family pressures, the clash between tradition and modern life, as well as questions of morality and social responsibility.

    The cast brings together seasoned and modern-day talents, among them highlife icon Gyedu-Blay Ambolley, respected actor Fred Amugi, comedian Clemento Suarez, actor Clement Bonney, Ken Fiati, Wofa Kay and Deaconess Abokomah.

    Veteran filmmaker Kwaw Ansah, who served as set designer for the original movie adaptation, is also linked to the revival and was present at the media launch.

    The production is expected to combine elements of drama, humour and music, with Ambolley adding a vibrant musical touch. Organisers say the play is designed not only to entertain but also to safeguard and promote Ghanaian heritage and identity.

    The actor has set ambitious goals for his career. Following the resounding success of his stage production in September 2023, ‘The Dilemma of a Ghost,’ the renowned actor is now determined to pack stadiums with his performances.

    ‘The Dilemma of a Ghost’ achieved sold-out status at the National Theatre in Accra. This play, authored by the late Ghanaian playwright Ama Ata Aidoo, revolves around the narrative of a Ghanaian man who returns to Ghana from the United States with his American wife. Their cultural disparities lead to challenges in their marriage, and they must find a way to bridge the gap between their two worlds.

    He was “humbled and grateful” for the positive reception to the play. According to him, he is now looking to build on the success of the play.

    Fiifi Coleman has unveiled his intentions to produce a series of stage plays in the forthcoming years, with the ultimate aim of filling stadiums with his captivating performances.

    “I am aiming to fill stadiums in the next two years,” he said.

  • Feud with 50 Cent, Tony Yayo will never end – Ja Rule vows

    Feud with 50 Cent, Tony Yayo will never end – Ja Rule vows

    Rapper Ja Rule has reiterated that his long-running feud with fellow rapper 50 Cent and G-Unit affiliate Tony Yayo is unlikely to end anytime soon.

    The tension between Ja Rule and 50 Cent has spanned more than two decades, with both artistes repeatedly exchanging jabs in interviews and across social media platforms.

    Their rivalry has also played out musically, with each side releasing diss tracks aimed at the other.

    While several high-profile hip hop disputes have eventually been resolved, Ja Rule, 49, has made clear that reconciliation is not on the table in this instance.

    Speaking in an interview with TMZ on Tuesday, the New York rapper declared that he would “never” be on friendly terms with 50 Cent, 50, or Yayo, 47.

    Before addressing the state of their relationship, he was questioned about his decision to apologise following a recent altercation involving Yayo and fellow rapper Uncle Murda aboard a Delta flight.

    “I’m a grown man,” Ja Rule said in response to being asked why he apologized.

    The interviewer further pressed him on whether he would consider a sit-down with 50 Cent and Yayo to resolve their issues.

    “Never,” Ja Rule replied. “Here’s the reality, right? Sometimes in life, people have enemies, and that’s okay. You know what I’m saying? That’s okay to have enemies. Everybody can’t be friends.”

    He added, “But what I’m saying is, we don’t also have to be at war. There’s room for us to be not friends and also not be at war.”

    Expanding on his stance, Ja Rule said he has chosen to keep his distance from them.

    “I don’t deal with that side. I don’t fck with them, they don’t fck with me,” he continued. “That’s fine. But I also don’t have to be at war. You know what I’m saying? I’m a grown man, I’m almost 50 years old. And so you know, we’re doing big things out here.”

    In the aftermath of the Delta flight confrontation, Ja Rule issued a public apology addressing the incident.

    “I’m not proud of my behavior, it’s goofy to me. I’m a grown man about to be a proud grandfather and I wish that video of me wasn’t out there either,” he said in the statement.

    “I don’t like people taking me out of my character so for that I apologize to my wife, family, fans, business and investment partners. I want people to know at the end of the day I’m still a man and I’m going to stand my ground. I don’t start trouble,” he added.

    American rapper 50 Cent’s career began with a string of bitter disputes that nearly took his life.

    He reflected on this period of his life in response to a video Joe Budden posted about 50 Cent’s rise to fame and the disputes he encountered while embarking on a successful mixtape run.

    “The ill shit is it’s true,” 50 wrote on Instagram. “I had beef with 3 different guys that had influence, real gangstas they all had crews that caught body’s running around putting in pain. I don’t know, I would just get mad, then say fuck them [n***as]. LOL we all gonna die one day!”

    In the clip, Budden described 50 Cent as having, “the greatest run that I’ve ever seen in my entire life. And that will probably remain the same—that answer will never change.”

    Budden continued, “I’m very aware of all the people that 50 Cent had beef with. He shouldn’t have beat any of it. They tried to kill 50 Cent for years. He should have died. He did not. He then had to deal with real live street beef with being blackballed. He shouldn’t have beat that. He shouldn’t have beat both of those things.

    “He was on the greatest mixtape run that I had ever witnessed,” Budden explained. “Then he signs with [Eminem], [Dr.] Dre. They put out ‘In Da Club.’ It never went off. Never saw nothing like that. He delivered [an] album [Get Rich or Die Tryin’]—classic. I have never seen a n***a do what 50 was able to do and accomplish, and what he had to endure on his way. You’re not gonna beat it.”

    50 Cent was shot nine times in 2000. He subsequently signed a publishing deal with Columbia Records while in the hospital before the label dropped him and he was “blackballed”—as Budden put it—by the music industry after his unreleased song “Ghetto Qu’ran” was leaked later in 2000.

    He has been in a reflective mood. Over the weekend, 50 discussed his and Eminem’s success, comparing his album sales with the Detroit native and bragging that no one was better than the pair in the early 2000s, when they were both selling millions of copies of their albums.

    Em’s The Marshall Mathers LP and The Eminem Show earned 1.78 million and 1.32 million in first-week sales, respectively. 50’s sophomore album, The Massacre, brought in 1.15 million, and his debut, Get Rich or Die Tryin’ sold 872,000 during its first week.

    “The funny shit is only @eminem sold more then [sic] me. I made n****s so uncomfortable they don’t want to remember. LOL,” Fif wrote on IG.

  • Eric Dane, who starred in Grey’s Anatomy, is dead

    Eric Dane, who starred in Grey’s Anatomy, is dead

    Eric Dane, the actor widely known for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at the age of 53, less than a year after disclosing that he had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

    “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” reads a statement from his family.

    The family noted that he spent his final days surrounded by friends, his devoted wife Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie and Georgia, “who were the center of his world”.

    “He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received,” it said.

    The California-born actor revealed his ALS diagnosis last year and had in recent months used his platform to raise awareness about the disease, the most common form of motor neurone disease (MND).

    Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS is a rare degenerative condition that progressively weakens muscles by damaging nerve cells in the brain and spine, eventually affecting a person’s ability to speak, eat, walk and breathe independently.

    Dane gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Dr Mark Sloan, popularly called ‘Dr McSteamy’, on Grey’s Anatomy. More recently, he played Cal Jacobs, the family patriarch in the hit HBO teen drama Euphoria.

    His television credits also included roles as Jason Dean in Charmed and Captain Tom Chandler in The Last Ship. He featured in films such as Marley & Me, Valentine’s Day and Burlesque.

    Last summer, Dane spoke about his diagnosis in an interview on ABC’s Good Morning America, saying it made him “angry”.

    “Because, you know, my father was taken from me when I was young,” he told the programme.

    “And now, you know, there’s a very good chance I’m going to be taken from my girls while they’re very young”.

    His father died by suicide when Dane was seven.

    Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane made his television debut in 1993 on The Wonder Years.

    Tributes have poured in from his colleagues. Kim Raver, who portrayed his on-screen wife in Grey’s Anatomy, said: “During filming he’d get this twinkle in his eye and with a mischievous look, he would deliver with perfect comedic timing, a line of dialogue that would floor you.”

    Kevin McKidd, who plays trauma surgeon Owen Hunt in the series, wrote “rest in peace buddy” on Instagram.

    Euphoria creator Sam Levinson told Variety “I’m heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend.”

    “Working with him was an honor. Being his friend was a gift,” he said.

    Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton has died at the age of 79.

    The news was shared by Producer and friend of Keaton, Dori Rath, confirmed the actress’s death to CBS News, the BBC’s US partner.

    The “People magazine,” citing a family spokesperson, reported that Keaton died in California on Saturday.

    Producer and friend of Keaton, Dori Rath, also confirmed the actress’s death to CBS News, the BBC’s US partner.

    Paying tribute, her First Wives Club co-star Bette Midler wrote on Instagram: “The brilliant, beautiful, extraordinary Diane Keaton has died. I cannot tell you how unbearably sad this makes me.”

    Actor Ben Stiller also paid tribute on X, writing: “Diane Keaton. One of the greatest film actors ever. An icon of style, humor and comedy. Brilliant. What a person.”

    Keaton, who was born in Los Angeles, shot to fame in the 1970s through her role as Kay Adams-Corleone in The Godfather films.

    She was also known for starring roles in films including Father of the Bride, First Wives Club and Annie Hall, which won her the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1978.

    “She was hilarious, a complete original, and completely without guile, or any of the competitiveness one would have expected from such a star. What you saw was who she was … oh, la, lala!”

    Keaton, who was born in Los Angeles, shot to fame in the 1970s through her role as Kay Adams-Corleone in The Godfather films.

    For Annie Hall, Keaton also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical Motion Picture and the BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role.

    Throughout her more than five-decade career, Keaton starred in dozens of other films including The Family Stone, Because I Said So, And So It Goes, as well as a number of other Woody Allen films, like Play It Again, Sam, Sleeper, Love and Death and Manhattan.

    Keaton made her film debut in the 1970 romantic comedy Lovers and Other Strangers. Her most recent film was the 2024 comedy Summer Camp where she starred alongside Eugene Levy and Kathy Bates.

    Keaton also directed several films, the first of which was a 1987 documentary, Heaven, chronicling people’s beliefs about the afterlife. Her 1995 film Unstrung Heroes – a comedy-drama starring Andie MacDowell, John Turturro and Michael Richards – was selected for Cannes Film Festival’s Un Certain Regard, which showcases unique stories by emerging directors.

    Most recently, Keaton directed Hanging Up in 2000, a comedy-drama starring herself, Meg Ryan and Lisa Kudrow.

    Both in her film roles and in her personal life, Keaton was known for her unique style, which often featured menswear and a wide-brimmed hat.

    Keaton was nominated for three further Oscars – all in the best actress category – for her work in Something’s Gotta Give, Marvin’s Room and Reds.

    She never married and had two adopted children – a daughter, Dexter, and a son, Duke.

    In her 2011 autobiography, titled Then Again, Keaton wrote: “I have assessed my happiness ratio and this is the result. I am totally content whenever the ones I love are happy about something little, big, insignificant, whatever.

    “I just don’t think anyone could possibly have the same wonderful, intense, compelling feelings that I have for this family of mine.”

    Months ago, Ninety-eight-year-old legendary broadcaster, Mike Eghan, known for his famous television program, “The Mike Eghan Show” in the 1970’s also died.

    A source close to the family announced his passing on June 5 to the media.

    Among the pioneering hosts of electronic media and show business, Mr Eghan was referred to as “The Magnificent Emperor.”

    His programme, “The Mike Eghan Show” became widely known for its catchy phrase, “Welcome, welcome welcome to the show,” which was rebranded as his signature tune and was loved in every Ghanaian household.

    His 60-year career started as a disc jockey. He proceeded to be a radio presenter and eventually became a television host.

    Mr Eghan hosted programmes for the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation as well as the BBC World Service, London.

    He autographed a book titled “The Emperor’s Story, from the Centre of the World” in 2019, long before his retirement, cataloging his life, work, and impact in the media terrain.

    The late Mr Eghan worked as an Entertainment Manager with the Volta River Authority, returned to London to work with the BBC, before returning home to revive the Mike Eghan Show.

    He was a regular co-host of Radio Dance Time with David Larbi on the only radio station in Ghana at the time, Radio Ghana.

    During his five-year stint with the British Broadcasting Corporation between 1965 and 1970, after which he returned home to join the commercial service of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, GBC 2, the legend made a seismic impact with his innovative style of presenting musical programmes on radio known as disc jockeying.

    He became a popular household name among the likes of Joe Larty and Eddie Faakye.

    In 1971, he once again proved his brilliance when he served as a master of ceremonies for his historic “Soul to Soul’ court at Black Star Square, which brought together top American performers and Ghanaian artists.

    Later in life, the ninety-eight-year-old legendary broadcaster moved to venture into the hotel business.

  • From TV studio to prison cell: Bullgod shares arrest ordeal

    From TV studio to prison cell: Bullgod shares arrest ordeal

    Ghanaian artiste manager, entertainment commentator, and graphic designer Lawrence Nana Asiamah Hanson, widely known as Bullgod, has recounted circumstances that led to his arrest, claiming former President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo played a role in the incident and had him detained.

    Speaking on Changes on Joy Prime, he explained that during a television appearance on the Menzgold controversy, he remarked that the former president might not complete his tenure due to the distress suffered by customers whose funds had been locked up.

    He indicated that shortly after the interview, a police convoy apprehended him and he was taken into custody, an action he believes was carried out on the instructions of Akufo-Addo.

    “I said he needed to pay the money before he finished his term if eno be so he no go finish his term; he go run away and boom they said I had threatened him. I went to one of the channels, I reach house and wanted to go buy some fufu. So, I was speaking to my PA and then I saw four wheel drives and boys are jumping out with bullet proofs with guns,” he told Roselyn Felli.

    “I spent three days at the BNI Cells and was moved because they cannot prosecute me and handed me over to the police. When I was done with my interrogation with the police. They made sure I was put in the hardest cells you can ever find in Accra. Like where they put armed robbers, rapists, killers, etc. I was put in the SWAT cells for two days,” he added.

    Bullgod further stated that the BNI facility was spacious and that he was kept there alone. He said the situation left him too frightened to sleep, as he felt the arrest was politically driven and feared for his safety at night, remaining awake throughout the three-day period.

    He also mentioned that inmates are not fed by the police unless relatives or associates provide meals, noting that food brought in was usually shared among detainees.

    He said his public profile shielded him from certain treatment typically meted out by leaders within the prison cells.

    BullGod, has declared that the former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is not worthy of his respect, citing personal grievances and the former leader’s conduct in office.

    According to BullGod, Akufo-Addo’s actions before, during, and after the 2016 and 2020 elections, as well as his general attitude towards Ghanaians, have made it impossible for him to hold the former president in high regard.

    “For me and him, my issue is personal,” he asserted in an interview on Hitz FM. “His campaign was mostly begging, and he had no real message. For someone like that, it is hard for me to respect him because he does not respect anyone. He doesn’t deserve it, and anyone who says otherwise must see things differently.”

    BullGod also recalled how he was arrested by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB), formerly BNI, in 2021 over comments he made about Akufo-Addo, an experience that reinforced his stance against the former president.

    “I don’t understand why people say I’ve been insulting the former president. Those are not insults; those are opinions,” he insisted.

    He further accused Akufo-Addo of disrespecting Ghanaians, particularly traditional leaders.

    “In front of everyone, you tell a sitting chief of a community to get up before they can give you the respect you think you deserve? That is unacceptable,” BullGod argued. “For chiefs to gather and come meet you at your office, the office they put you in, and you treat them with such disregard?”

    He also criticized Akufo-Addo’s remarks during his visit to flood victims in Akosombo, stating that such comments reinforced his lack of respect for him.

    “For you to go to Akosombo when the flood happened and say, ‘I don’t know why I’m here; you didn’t vote for me,’ I can’t understand how we are supposed to respect such a person,” he stated.

    According to BullGod, respect must be mutual, and a leader who does not show regard for the people cannot expect it in return.

    “If you treat someone a certain way, the same will happen to you,” he added.

    Expressing disappointment, he noted that Akufo-Addo, as a well-educated individual, should have exhibited better leadership qualities.

  • NAM 1 shares how BoG guided its financial operations

    NAM 1 shares how BoG guided its financial operations

    The former Chief Executive Officer of the now-collapsed Menzgold Ghana Limited, Nana Appiah Mensah, popularly known as NAM 1, has told the High Court that the Bank of Ghana provided guidance to his businesses regarding their structure and operations.

    NAM 1 is currently facing trial over allegations that he used his companies to lure and defraud more than 16,000 people.

    Taking the witness stand to present his defence, he responded to questions from his counsel, Paa Joy A. Boateng, during examination-in-chief concerning the registration and licensing status of Menzgold Ghana Limited.

    He informed the court that the company was first incorporated as Menzbank Ghana Company Limited, with ambitions of becoming the first bullion bank in West Africa, and possibly across Africa.

    According to NAM 1, the Central Bank at some point published a list of unlicensed microfinance institutions which included Menzbank.

    “In response, Menzbank’s in-house counsel wrote to the BoG, citing the publication in the dailies and informing them that Menzbank was not a microfinance institution, requesting that our name be expunged from the list,” he said.

    He stated that the Central Bank subsequently asked for documentation and invited him for a meeting.

    “As a law-abiding entity, we submitted the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) licence and all other documentation they requested, which they acknowledged.

    “Menzgold was subsequently given an opportunity in the meeting, chaired by Mr Amoh Awuah and other officers of the Central Bank, to adequately address the issues, which we did to the best of our ability,” NAM 1 said, explaining that the firm was still operating under the name Menzbank at the time.

    He told the court that the issue of being listed as an unlicensed microfinance institution was resolved during the meeting, attributing the mix-up to the company’s name, which suggested it was a financial services provider.

    NAM 1 testified that officials of the Central Bank recommended a minor modification to the company’s name.

    “So more specifically, our team and that of the Central Bank collectively resolved that Menzbank with a ‘k’ would be changed to Menzbanc with a ‘c’ to ensure consistency, which is a cardinal element in business administration. So Menzbank was changed to Menzbanc on the advice of the BoG,” he said.

    He further indicated that months later, the Central Bank organised another meeting to address public uncertainty about whether Menzbanc was a licensed financial institution.

    “This was because the name ‘Menzbanc’ depicted a financial institution, and members of the public often called the Central Bank to enquire. Secondly, our gold jewellery products and tablets, which buyers could trade for extra value, gave the semblance of financial investment,” he explained.

    NAM 1 said that after deliberations, the Central Bank directed that the sale of gold jewellery products be separated from gold trading activities to eliminate confusion.

    “In effect, it was the Bank of Ghana that advised the setting up of Brew Marketing Consult,” NAM 1 said.

    The court adjourned the matter to March 5, 2026, for the continuation of his evidence-in-chief.

    Earlier this month, the High Court in Accra directed Nana Appiah Mensah, popularly known as NAM 1, to file his witness statement by February 9, 2026, after dismissing a motion seeking a stay of proceedings in his criminal case involving alleged illegal gold trading through Menzgold Ghana Limited.

    The ruling was delivered by Justice Ernest Owusu-Dapaa following the withdrawal of the application, which had been filed on January 13, 2026.

    NAM 1 is facing prosecution alongside other individuals and corporate entities in a multi-accused trial arising from the operations of Menzgold Ghana Limited.

    During proceedings on Monday, February 2, 2026, his lawyer, Paa Joy Akuamoah Boateng, told the court that the motion for a stay had become ineffective after a related judicial review before the Supreme Court was discontinued.

    He argued that the pending High Court motion had become “negatory” due to the withdrawal of the substantive application and asked the court to strike it out.

    The prosecution, led by Senior State Attorney Watkins Adama, did not object, describing the withdrawal as a procedural step that did not prejudice the case.

    The court noted that although an appeal against a summary of proceedings remains pending, it does not halt the trial.

    In its ruling, Justice Owusu-Dapaa ordered that the trial “shall proceed” and directed NAM 1 to continue with his evidence-in-chief. The court also instructed him and the other accused to submit any proposed documentary evidence at least three days before the next hearing.

    In his testimony, NAM 1 told the court that Menzgold Ghana Limited was incorporated under Ghanaian law to engage in gold mining, buying, value addition, and export.

    He acknowledged that these activities required regulatory licences and stated that the company held the necessary approvals at the time of operation. He explained that obtaining such licences involved documentation, payment of statutory fees, and regulatory assessment.

    NAM 1 added that the regulatory framework later changed when the role of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) shifted from licensing to national assay functions.

    He further said that although Menzgold had incorporation and licensing documents, he could not access some of them after the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) shut down the company and law enforcement agencies sealed its offices.

    According to the accused, this affected his ability to retrieve documents essential for his defence, a situation he noted could be verified by the relevant state institutions.

    The court reiterated that NAM 1 must file his witness statement by February 9, 2026, as part of the ongoing proceedings.

    Background

    NAM 1, together with Menzgold Ghana Limited and Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited, is facing 39 counts, including dealing in gold without authorisation, engaging in deposit-taking without a licence, inducement to invest, defrauding by false pretence, fraudulent breach of trust, and money laundering.

    Prosecutors allege that between 2016 and 2018, the accused defrauded customers of GH¢340,835,650. He has denied all the charges and is currently on GH¢500 million bail with four sureties.

  • Revoke Gyampo’s appointment over BBC ‘Sex for Grades’ documentary – Mahama urged

    Revoke Gyampo’s appointment over BBC ‘Sex for Grades’ documentary – Mahama urged

    A private citizen, Perpetual L Akwadaa, has formally petitioned President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to dismiss the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, Prof Ransford Gyampo.

    In a petition dated February 19, 2026, and sighted by GhanaWeb, Akwadaa called on the President to withdraw Prof Gyampo’s appointment, citing his alleged involvement in the BBC Africa Eye’s Sex-for-Grades Documentary.

    She maintained that appointing Prof Gyampo to head a state institution compromises the credibility of public office and projects a negative message regarding the protection and dignity of women.

    “In February 2025, Your Excellency appointed Prof Gyampo as the CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority. This appointment raised significant commentary about propriety stemming from Prof Gyampo’s involvement in a sexual harassment scandal that shocked the conscience of this nation.

    “Admittedly, the core mandate of the Shippers Authority is commerce-facing, and maybe the Government did not consider how appointing someone of Prof Gyampo’s profile may adversely affect other sectors of our holistic development drive. However, appointing a person publicly associated with sexual harassment allegations to a position of influence sends a harmful signal to the vulnerable that, in Ghana, power shields misconduct. Notably, it discourages reporting, emboldens abusers, and undermines years of progress towards gender equality and safe schools and workplaces,” she wrote.

    Akwadaa further contended that removing Prof Gyampo from office would demonstrate that individuals linked to sexual harassment allegations should not occupy positions of authority in the public sector.

    She argued that such action would reinforce Ghana’s stated commitment to safeguarding women and girls, particularly under the 2025 Code of Conduct, which outlaws sexual harassment by public officials.

    The BBC documentary, released in October 2019, formed part of an undercover investigation that spanned a year, during which four lecturers were secretly recorded. Journalists posed as prospective students to uncover alleged sexual misconduct at the University of Ghana and the University of Lagos.

    Prof Gyampo and his colleague, Dr Paul Kwame Butakor, were subsequently cleared of wrongdoing by the University of Ghana following internal investigations into the matter.

    Read the petition below:

    The University of Ghana (UG) has suspended Professor Ransford Gyampo and Dr Paul Butakor for six months and four months respectively for their roles in a sexual harassment scandal which hit the university in October 2019.

    The suspensions which are without pay take effect from January 1, 2020.

    “In addition, Prof Gyampo and Dr Butakor are required to undergo appropriate training on the University of Ghana’s Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Policy as well as the Code of Conduct for Academic Staff of the University of Ghana,” a press statement signed and issued by the Director of Public Affairs of UG, Stella A Amoa on Monday [February 17, 2020] said.

    “They will be required to receive a positive assessment after the training before resumption of their duties. They are also required to undergo annual assessment for a period of 5 years,” the statement added.

    It said a Fact-Finding Committee chaired by Justice Vida Akoto-Bamfo, a retired Supreme Court Judge, which investigated allegations of misconduct against Prof Gyampo and Dr Butakor found that they had contravened the Code of Conduct for Academic Senior Members.

    The Committee that looked into the case according to the statement recommended that the case be referred to the Disciplinary Committee for Senior Members which proferred the sanctions against the pair.

    “Management has accepted the recommendations of the Senior Members’ Disciplinary Committee and has informed Prof. Gyampo and Dr Butakor accordingly”, the release stressed.

    The statement further assured stakeholders that any acts of misconduct, sexual harassment or any other form of harassment will not be tolerated among students and employees of the university.

    Background

    Prof Gyampo and Dr Butakor were accused of soliciting sex in order to extend some advantages to female students in a documentary by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

    In the documentary produced by the BBC Africa Eye and published on Monday, October 7, 2019, the BBC reported that it has uncovered sexual harassment at the University of Lagos and the University of Ghana.

    The BBC sent female undercover reporters to the campuses of the two universities where it reported that they were sexually harassed, propositioned and put under pressure by senior lecturers – all the while wearing secret cameras.

    Following that, the two lecturers were interdicted by the university.

    Below is a copy of the statement from the University of Ghana on the suspension;

  • Heavy dependence on net interest income raises risk for banks –  BoG

    Heavy dependence on net interest income raises risk for banks –  BoG

    The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, has warned that banks face growing vulnerabilities if they continue to depend heavily on net interest income as their primary source of earnings.

    Speaking to chief executives and senior executives of commercial banks in Accra on February 18, 2026, Dr Asiama acknowledged that interest income remains fundamental to banking. He cautioned, however, that an imbalance in revenue structure could expose institutions to avoidable shocks.

    “There is nothing inherently problematic about net interest income. However, a high dependence on it increases sensitivity to interest rate cycles and sovereign exposure dynamics.”

    His remarks come as Ghana’s monetary landscape steadily returns to stability, a development that is narrowing spreads and pushing down yields on government securities — instruments that have traditionally delivered strong returns for banks.

    Dr Asiama indicated that a stabilising rate environment is expected to squeeze profit margins, requiring financial institutions to reassess how they generate income.

    “As margins compress in a normalizing rate environment, earnings resilience will increasingly depend on diversification, particularly through transactional banking, trade services, payments, treasury activities, and other fee-based income streams that are less balance-sheet intensive.”

    The Governor’s comments reflect a broader regulatory direction aimed at reducing concentration risks, particularly those linked to sovereign instruments, while encouraging banks to build stronger non-interest revenue streams.

    The meeting forms part of the central bank’s ongoing supervisory engagements designed to reinforce financial stability and position Ghana’s banking sector to withstand shifting macroeconomic conditions.

    African banks are expected to experience their strongest loan growth by the end of 2026, driven by rising demand from businesses and individuals, as well as reduced government borrowing, according to UK-based Fitch Solutions.

    The firm noted in its article “Sub-Saharan Africa Banking Key Themes For 2026: Banks Navigate Easing Cycles And Consolidation Trends” that “loan growth will accelerate across SSA’s largest banking sectors and the region will experience the strongest growth rate by year-end. This acceleration reflects pent-up demand, improving economic growth prospects and a reduction in government crowding out as fiscal consolidation efforts ramp up and sovereigns look for alternative sources of financing.”

    In recent years, many banking sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa increased their holdings of government securities, attracted by high yields. In some markets, government bonds now account for 20-35% of bank assets, up from 10-15% before the pandemic.

    As policy rates fall and bond yields decline, Fitch said banks will face pressure to redirect capital toward private-sector lending to maintain returns. “This transition will be positive for businesses and the economy as more credit becomes available to support growth initiatives,” the firm added.

    The shift is expected to be particularly pronounced in markets where governments are pursuing fiscal consolidation, reducing domestic borrowing requirements. Across the region, central banks have also moved toward more accommodative monetary policy. Since February 2025, major central banks have either cut policy rates or held them steady, a trend Fitch expects to continue through 2026.

    Ghanaian banks are set to benefit from the end of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) and the restoration of capital buffers. However, Fitch cautioned that a high level of non-performing loans, which stood at 9.5% in October 2025, may limit profitability going forward.

    Fitch concluded that while loan growth is set to accelerate across most markets, banks will need to carefully manage risks associated with bad loans and capital allocation.

    Last year, Fitch Solutions projected an annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth to edge up from 5.8% in 2025 to 5.9% in 2026.

    According to the UK-based firm, “We expect annual GDP to edge up from 5.8% this year to 5.9% in 2026 as easing price pressures lift private consumption, tempered by fiscal consolidation, slow credit pass-through and a firmer cedi.”

    Fitch noted that the slight increase in growth is a result of easing price pressures boosting private consumption, even as fiscal tightening and slower credit pass-through limit the pace of expansion.

    The firm’s November 2025 Sub-Saharan Africa Outlook also highlighted robust economic performance this year, with Ghana recording a 6.3% year-on-year growth in the second quarter. This was up from a revised 5.7% in the same period in 2024 and was driven by household consumption, fixed investment, and a significant drop in inflation.

    The services sector, encompassing finance, insurance, trade, and education, saw remarkable growth of 9.9% in the quarter compared to just 2% a year earlier, underscoring the sector’s contribution to the country’s economic resilience.

    Fitch’s projection signals cautious optimism for Ghana’s economy as it balances fiscal discipline with measures to sustain private sector growth.

    In November, Fitch Solutions projected that the Bank of Ghana (BoG) would lower its monetary policy rate to 16.50% by the end of 2026, driven by sustained currency stability and a continued drop in inflation.

    At the 2026 PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Post-Budget Forum in Accra, Mike Kruiniger, an Assistant Director at Fitch Solutions, explained that Ghana’s improving macroeconomic outlook creates room for further monetary easing in the year ahead.

    “Rates have remained elevated, but the Bank of Ghana launched a decisive easing cycle this summer, cutting by 650 basis points so far — the fastest monetary easing cycle globally this year,” he said.

    According to him, inflation’s return to the central bank’s target range, combined with firm foreign exchange inflows and a stable currency, provides the basis for Fitch’s projection that the policy rate will ease to 16.50 percent by the end of 2026.

    Ghana’s relatively stable cedi, easing inflation, and robust agricultural performance have earned the country an upgrade in growth by UK-based financial analytics firm, Fitch Solutions.

    Fitch, in its September 2025 Monthly Outlook report, lifted its economic growth forecast for the country from 4.2% to 4.9%, citing signs of renewed macroeconomic stability driven by easing inflation, a relatively stable cedi, and resilient agricultural performance.

    Highlighting the challenges the economy is still grappling with, such as tight fiscal consolidation, elevated interest rates, and stagnant oil output, the report said Ghana’s economy remains firmly on a recovery path.

    The upgrade follows a strong performance in Ghana’s agricultural sector, which boosted the economy’s growth in the first quarter of the year. Between January and March, Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 5.3%, compared to 4.7% recorded during the same period last year.

    Fitch believes this growth will continue into 2026, predicting the economy will expand by around 5.0%. This improvement is expected to come from lower inflation (prices rising more slowly), possible interest rate cuts, and more government spending as Ghana’s IMF-supported program comes to an end.

  • Ghana’s security exposed by the absence of a substantive Defence Minister – Nitiwul

    Ghana’s security exposed by the absence of a substantive Defence Minister – Nitiwul

    Former Defence Minister and Bimbilla MP, Dominic Nitiwul, has criticised President John Dramani Mahama over what he describes as a dangerous leadership gap in Ghana’s security architecture following the absence of a substantive Defence Minister.

    Speaking on the recent terrorist attack on Ghanaian tomato traders at Burkina Faso, Mr. Nitiwul argued that Ghana’s national security response had been weakened because the Defence Ministry remains without a substantive head at a critical moment.

    “That is why I kept on calling that the President should have appointed a Defence Minister, because by this time the minister for defence should have been on the flight to Burkina Faso with his team,” he stated.

    According to him, the responsibility of engaging Burkina Faso authorities and coordinating a military-level response does not fall within the mandate of the Interior Minister.

    “This is not the job of the Interior Minister. He is my friend, but unfortunately, that is not his job. If he goes there, he will go and meet the Defence Minister. It is soldiers who are fighting the terrorists. It is not the Interior Minister’s job,” he stressed.

    Mr. Nitiwul further explained that the Interior Ministry’s jurisdiction does not extend beyond Ghana’s borders, particularly in matters requiring military intelligence and cross-border defence coordination.

    “Unfortunately, the Interior Minister’s job ends at Paga, the border. It doesn’t go beyond the border. It is the duty of the Minister for Defence with defence intelligence and national security to have gone, set up a team to have gone there, find out what happened, investigate, and make sure that they find out the circumstances that led to it, and also find out what is the best way to ensure that it does not happen again,” he added.

    The former Defence Minister maintained that failure to appoint a substantive Defence Minister at such a time exposes Ghana’s security system to avoidable risks, especially as terrorism threats continue to affect parts of the Sahel region.

    His comments add to the growing debate over Ghana’s preparedness and institutional coordination in responding to cross-border security threats.

    Seven Ghanaian traders were killed in a terrorist attack in Titao on Sunday, February 15 and have already been laid to rest in northern Burkina Faso. The victims were burnt beyond recognition during the attack.

    Earlier, the Minister for the Interior and National Security, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, revealed that an investigation had been launched into the unfortunate incident, which also left three men injured, while one woman remains in critical condition.

    But speaking to the media, the Minister disclosed that the victims were buried due to the state of decomposition of their bodies. According to the minister, the deceased were a part of a group of 18 Ghanaian tomato traders and truck drivers.

    “The seven bodies have been burnt beyond recognition. As at yesterday, we agreed they had begun decomposing and had to be buried. So the Burkina Faso authorities told us [Ghanaians] that they would bury them at 10 a.m today. But our women who are not really injured can go and witness and take as many pictures as possible,” he added.

    Additionally, the minister noted that “And the sad thing is that we lost seven of our men. Three of them got injured. One woman was critically injured, and others were not badly injured”.

    Ghana and Burkina Faso has since shared a long border. Burkina Faso remains deeply affected by insurgent violence, with cross-border implications for neighboring countries like Ghana.

    Northern Burkina Faso has faced persistent insecurity due to jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS. Attacks often target military posts, civilians, and traders moving across borders, disrupting local economies and cross-border trade.

    Burkina Faso remains deeply affected by insurgent violence, with cross-border implications for neighboring countries like Ghana. In 2025, Burkina Faso’s military government’s banned grain and cereal exports.

    To demonstrate their commitment, Burkinabe authorities have agreed to lift restrictions on 23 trucks carrying beans that were previously seized. Additional shipments of cereals meant for Ghana are also expected to be released in the coming days.

    Ghana, which depends on imports from Burkina Faso, had faced concerns over possible supply shortages and rising prices due to the ban.

    However, after President Mahama’s diplomatic engagements in the AES region, Gbevlo-Lartey is confident that relations between both countries have been strengthened.

    During an interview with Blessed Sogah on Connect Africa, he explained: “President Mahama has successfully addressed the situation, and further discussions between key stakeholders from both sides will ensure a concrete resolution. The issue is largely settled. For instance, 23 trucks that had been held up have been released, and the Burkinabe authorities have assured President Mahama that the remaining eight will also be let through shortly.”

  • Sexcapade: Govt to seek international arrest warrant for Russian national through INTERPOL – Sam George

    Sexcapade: Govt to seek international arrest warrant for Russian national through INTERPOL – Sam George

    Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has announced plans to seek an international arrest warrant for a Russian national accused of non-consensually recording and disseminating intimate images of Ghanaian women on social media.

    At a press conference on February 18, 2026, Sam George stated that his ministry is preparing, through the Cyber Security Authority, to present a docket to the Police Service and the Attorney-General for prosecution in absentia in “our courts.”

    “…and the CID is working with us to escalate this to Interpol to issue an international arrest warrant for the gentleman. And so we’re leaving no stone unturned,” the Minister told journalists.

    The move follows discussions between the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and the Russian Ambassador to Ghana, Sergei Berdnikov, where the latter confirmed that Russian authorities have received reports of similar activities in other countries by an alleged Russian national believed to be a content creator.

    Honourable Ablakwa indicated in a statement that the Russian Ambassador acknowledged “the violation of the privacy and dignity of the victims” and recognised the broader cybercrime implications of the incident.

    However, Russia will not hand over its citizens to face prosecution elsewhere, regardless of existing international agreements, as Russian Constitution takes precedence over any extradition treaty.

    Sam George, however, assured that the government will continue to explore diplomatic and legal channels and pursue the matter to its logical legal conclusion, despite Russia’s constitutional position.

    Honourable Ablakwa has also assured Ghanaians that the Ministry would deploy all available international legal mechanisms to ensure accountability while maintaining diplomatic relations between both countries.

    “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to assure the general public of its commitment to leverage the cordial bilateral relations between Ghana and Russia to explore all international tools and remedies to ensure that justice is secured,” he said in a statement.

    Samuel Nartey George has made public the passport information of the Russian national explaining that the decision is aimed at confirming the suspect’s identity and safeguarding women who have been wrongly portrayed.

    Speaking on February 18, 2026, Sam George indicated that officials have secured the individual’s Russian passport.

    “We have his passport, which we will be sharing with the media, his Russian passport,” he said.

    “His first name is Vladislav and his last name is Liulkov. The passport with which he entered the country will be shared with the media so that his identity is made known,” he added.

    Information contained in the travel document lists the man as Vladislav Aleksandrovich Liulkov, a citizen of the Russian Federation born on September 19, 1989. The passport further affirms his Russian nationality.

    Sam George emphasised that preliminary findings suggest that a number of women whose photos were circulated online had no intimate involvement with the suspect.

    “Let us be clear, not all the women he has publicised were engaged in an intimate encounter with him,” he stated.

    The Ningo-Prampram MP noted that assessments conducted by cybersecurity personnel reveal that some interactions were limited, occurring briefly in public places without any indication of sexual conduct.

    “Some of the cases that have come to us show that he barely met the women at malls, greeted them, and briefly engaged them,” Sam George explained.

    “Cybersecurity checks indicate that in some instances there is no video of him with those ladies beyond the mall encounters,” he added.

    Nonetheless, he alleged that the man presented the women online in a manner suggesting they had been involved in intimate relations with him.

    “However, he splashed their images as though he had intimate encounters with all of these ladies. That is wrong, and such a person must be brought to face the full rigours of the law,” he said.

    The legislator also urged the public to exercise understanding and sensitivity toward the affected women, highlighting the emotional toll the situation has taken on some of them.

    “That is why we are calling for empathy for these ladies. There are people who are genuinely innocent and have not had any intimacy with the said gentleman. But because he portrayed all of them as victims, it has been traumatising for many of them,” he added.

    He indicated that the repercussions have been significant for certain individuals caught up in the matter.

    The investigation is being pursued by the Ghana Police Service, with support from cybersecurity specialists, as authorities seek to determine the full extent of the alleged actions and ensure appropriate legal action is taken.

  • My Kayamata charm was powerful until my menses destroyed it – Lady reveals

    My Kayamata charm was powerful until my menses destroyed it – Lady reveals

    The Kayamata charm controversy saw a lady detailing her experience in a GhanaWeb exposé.

    In the documentary aired on February 18, 2026, by Ghanaweb, the lady anonymously revealed that she purchased the blue eye ring charm after coming across a social media advertisement claiming it brings favour and good luck to its user.

    “The only experience I’ve had was with a blue eye ring. I was on TikTok and Snapchat when I saw influencers advertising a brand that sells the whole Kayamata package. I saw someone talking about the blue eye ring, which gives good luck, favour, and drives away negative energy. So, I ordered one.” she said.

    “When I was using it, I wasn’t really in a serious relationship. I was just talking to a guy, and he was cool. He used to spend on me. He would gift me money and tell me to use it for anything I wanted.”

    “The vendor warned me that it was something spiritual, so I should make sure I wasn’t menstruating before wearing it. I wasn’t supposed to put it on during my period. At some point, I forgot to take it off.

    “I got my menses, and it spoiled it. I told the vendor what happened, and she said I had ruined it, so I would have to buy another one,” she narrated.

    Founder and leader of the Prophetic Hill Chapel, Nigel Gaisie, has narrated his encounters with ladies possessed by Kayamata, linking it to marine spirits and demonic forces.

    Sharing the story in a GhanaWeb documentary aired on February 18, 2026, the outspoken preacher, a lady once approached him at church to confess her involvement with kayamata and revealed deep spiritual encounters connected to it.

    “I’ve had an opportunity whereby one lady came to church, sensing and knowing the grace of God I have upon me, she had to actually come to me. She told me the genesis of the kayamata and she’s gone very deep that the spirit manifests itself every 12 midnight in her room. Within the space of 12 midnight to 4 a.m., the spirit physically manifests itself to them,” he said.

    Nigel Gaisie added, “Kayamata is of the marine kingdom. We have different agents of the devil, such as the dwarfs and other kinds of demons. One of the greatest agents of the devil are the powers in the sea and in the powers of the sea, we have `Maame wata’. Maame wata have millions of demons and other agents of the devil, so that comes from the Queen of the Coast,” he claimed.

    He added that breaking free from such practices often becomes challenging when the person involved is unwilling to abandon them.

    “It becomes difficult if the person you’re delivering has not decided to accept the fact that they want to be delivered,” he shared.

    Recounting a separate experience, he said he once tried to pray for a woman believed to be using kayamata to lure men, but she declined spiritual help.

    “I wanted to pray for a lady who has used the kayamata to enthuse men, but she said no. She’s under a spell, but she’s not willing to let it go. You can pray for her as a man of God, but after that, any spirit of the devil that’s cast out, they don’t go and sleep,” he explained.

    He continued, “They hang around and come back again. It depends on the person you’re delivering, whether the person is willing to let go or the person will go back.”

    Nigel Gaisie also claimed that certain individuals engage in both physical and ritual practices to exert influence over others.

    “Some people even inject their tongue and they put things on their tongue to induce people. They use a blade and some satanic instruments, so when they’re speaking, it will influence you not to have your own thoughts. These things are very true and they really exist,” he added.

    They are aphrodisiacs, oils, herbs, potions, or other substances, and their sole function is to improve romantic relations or sex.

    It is a combination of two Hausa words – ‘Kayan’ which means; property, or things, and ‘Mata’ which means women. Put together, the word literally means ‘women’s things’.

    It appears to have existed for centuries and originated from Northern Nigeria.

    Originally, it was used by these women for sexual pleasure, and served as enhancers, or aphrodisiacs, especially for young brides, but in recent times, it has become a really huge trend for women all over the world.

    In Ghana, the trend has become very prevalent and these products are even advertised via the internet and on various social media platforms.

    Patrons of these products have diverse interests, to attract men for money, sex, marriage, etc.

    What some may not know is how the Kayan Mata (kayamata) is used by its clients.

    In a post on media personality – Naa Ashorkor’s Facebook page, she indicates how some women with in-depth knowledge about how people use the Kayan Matan for their ‘victims’ shared this with her on her show; ‘Just us’.

    According to her, she picked some pointers which include the fact that the Kayan Mata products are in 3 categories; vaginal upgrade, faithfulness, and libido boosting, and the third; favour and attraction potions.

    Users of the potion need to talk to the oil and indicate exactly what they want from it and it happens.

    “In order to activate the potion, you simply talk to the oil. For instance – “oil, please let me attract rich men who can buy me a car”. When you go out, the men will literally be falling over themselves for you. They can’t help it,” she wrote.

    She however indicated that some men who called into the show also shared how the male variation referred to as ‘For girls’ is used by some men for similar interests.

    “Interestingly, when I activated the phone lines to ask ladies to share their experiences, only men called! Apparently, Kayan mata is a variation of “For girls’ and the men have interesting stories about the potency of this potion. Scary! One guy said his friend used it to get his wife to accept his marriage proposal. So this woman is currently under a spell. Apparently, a lot of married people are under spells they are not aware of,” Naa Ashorkor narrated.

    Naa Ashorkor also shared stories of how some users of these products suffered side effects or had experiences which didn’t go in their favour.

    In one instance, a woman who tried using it to attract men ended up attracting mad men. In another, a woman who tried using it on another man who already had activated the ‘For girls’ potion ended up dying.

    “A lady who bought and used attraction potion now attracts only “mad men” literally, in traffic, they approach her and try to touch her, they literally chase her around town, sometimes more than one at a time. When she complained to the vendor she bought it from, she told her to go to Benin to see the original seller. There is no other way to undo this charm,” she shared.

    Adding, that “The side effects are dire. Sometimes you cannot break away from this spell or spirit even if you want to. My guest shared a story about a girl who used it on a man, the man apparently had more potent potions which killed her. She is dead oo”.

  • It will be difficult to bring Russian to Ghana to face justice – Criminologist

    It will be difficult to bring Russian to Ghana to face justice – Criminologist

    Criminologist and KNUST lecturer, Dr Jones Opoku Ware, says that holding a Russian national accused of committing a crime in Ghana accountable may be difficult because the two countries do not have an extradition treaty.

    He explained that while Interpol helps countries share information internationally, it has limited authority in cases like this and cannot force the suspect’s return.

    “We are looking at a foreign citizen who entered Ghana to commit a crime. If this person leaves the country, getting them back will be a very tall order because Ghana does not have any existing extradition agreements with Russia,” he told Joy FM’s Top Story.

    The government has initiated efforts to bring back a foreign national allegedly involved in secretly filming and distributing intimate videos of Ghanaian women without their consent.

    Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, said authorities are using both legal and diplomatic channels to ensure the suspect faces prosecution under Ghana’s cybersecurity laws.

    Dr Opoku Ware, however, cautioned that without a formal treaty, the government’s recourse is largely limited to diplomatic engagement and requests to Russian officials. The situation becomes more complicated if the suspect has protections or connections under Russian law, he added.

    “The government is exploring all possible options to ensure justice for the victims. At this point, we may have to appeal to the conscience of the Russian Republic to achieve some form of reparations or compensation,” the criminologist said.

    “It’s a very complex issue. While the government will explore all avenues, securing justice will require careful diplomatic engagement and patience,” he added.

    Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has cautioned the public against sharing, downloading, rebroadcasting, or profiting from a viral video allegedly recorded secretly by a Russian national involving several Ghanaian women.

    Speaking at a press briefing together with officials from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Minister emphasised that distributing the footage is not only unethical but also constitutes a criminal offence under Ghana’s laws.

    “Do not share, download, circulate, or monetise this illegal content. Doing so constitutes a criminal offence,” he cautioned.

    Mr. George emphasised that the government is handling the issue with urgency and has already initiated steps to obtain crucial evidence.

    “The Government has initiated steps to trace and secure relevant digital and financial evidence,” he revealed.

    He also warned that the inquiry is not limited to the foreign national alleged to have made and circulated the videos.

    “Any individual, including Ghanaian nationals, who has shared, rebroadcast, or redistributed the illegal material is also liable under our laws,” he said.

    The matter concerns a foreign national who is alleged to have enticed Ghanaian women, secretly filmed intimate encounters without their consent, and then shared the videos online, reportedly for profit.

    The Minister clarified that the issue is not about moral judgment or the personal decisions of consenting adults, but rather about illegal activity.

    Earlier, Mr. George stated that the government has already begun legal proceedings and is working to extradite the suspect and prosecute him under Ghana’s cybersecurity laws.

    Benjamin Madugu, Director of Communication, International Cooperation, and Strategic Partnership at the Cyber Security Authority (CSA Ghana), has condemned the actions of a Russian national linked to videos involving approximately 40 Ghanaian women.

    Speaking in an interview with Sammy Kay Media on February 13, 2026, Madugu described the situation as unacceptable and a breach of Ghana’s cyber and privacy laws.

    He emphasised that it is wrong for any foreign individual to enter Ghana and secretly record women in intimate situations, particularly with the intention of publishing such content online.

    “It is unacceptable for a foreign national to come into our country and, for some reason, decide to record our ladies in the manner that he did. That is not acceptable, and it is condemnable. It is also an offence under the Cybersecurity Authority Act to record intimate images that both parties had agreed to capture at the time they were getting intimate and then leak those images online,” he said.

    Madugu noted that the Authority is treating the matter with seriousness and will carry out the necessary investigations. He explained that the agency’s immediate priority is to determine the current location of the individual at the centre of the controversy.

    “We want to find if the individual (Yaytseslav) is still within the jurisdiction. But if he has left, maybe he has not even gone back to Russia. Maybe he has gone to a different country and gone into hiding. But we will look into this matter and be sure about what the situation really is and what action ought to be taken,” he added.

    He also warned the public against sharing the videos on social media, stressing that doing so is a criminal offence under Ghana’s cybersecurity laws.

    “What we are urging is that if you are not the original person who recorded the video but choose to share it on your social media, that is also an offence under the Act, and it attracts not less than one year and not more than three years’ imprisonment.

    “For those who think, ‘I’m not the one who recorded the video; the video is already out, and I’m only sharing it,’ if the affected individuals decide to make an official complaint to the Cybersecurity Authority, such persons can be brought to book,” he added.

  • Sam George cautions public against dowloading, viral video circulated by foreign national

    Sam George cautions public against dowloading, viral video circulated by foreign national

    Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has cautioned the public against sharing, downloading, rebroadcasting, or profiting from a viral video allegedly recorded secretly by a Russian national involving several Ghanaian women.

    Speaking at a press briefing together with officials from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Minister emphasised that distributing the footage is not only unethical but also constitutes a criminal offence under Ghana’s laws.

    “Do not share, download, circulate, or monetise this illegal content. Doing so constitutes a criminal offence,” he cautioned.

    Mr. George emphasised that the government is handling the issue with urgency and has already initiated steps to obtain crucial evidence.

    “The Government has initiated steps to trace and secure relevant digital and financial evidence,” he revealed.

    He also warned that the inquiry is not limited to the foreign national alleged to have made and circulated the videos.

    “Any individual, including Ghanaian nationals, who has shared, rebroadcast, or redistributed the illegal material is also liable under our laws,” he said.

    The matter concerns a foreign national who is alleged to have enticed Ghanaian women, secretly filmed intimate encounters without their consent, and then shared the videos online, reportedly for profit.

    The Minister clarified that the issue is not about moral judgment or the personal decisions of consenting adults, but rather about illegal activity.

    Earlier, Mr. George stated that the government has already begun legal proceedings and is working to extradite the suspect and prosecute him under Ghana’s cybersecurity laws.

    Benjamin Madugu, Director of Communication, International Cooperation, and Strategic Partnership at the Cyber Security Authority (CSA Ghana), has condemned the actions of a Russian national linked to videos involving approximately 40 Ghanaian women.

    Speaking in an interview with Sammy Kay Media on February 13, 2026, Madugu described the situation as unacceptable and a breach of Ghana’s cyber and privacy laws.

    He emphasised that it is wrong for any foreign individual to enter Ghana and secretly record women in intimate situations, particularly with the intention of publishing such content online.

    “It is unacceptable for a foreign national to come into our country and, for some reason, decide to record our ladies in the manner that he did. That is not acceptable, and it is condemnable. It is also an offence under the Cybersecurity Authority Act to record intimate images that both parties had agreed to capture at the time they were getting intimate and then leak those images online,” he said.

    Madugu noted that the Authority is treating the matter with seriousness and will carry out the necessary investigations. He explained that the agency’s immediate priority is to determine the current location of the individual at the centre of the controversy.

    “We want to find if the individual (Yaytseslav) is still within the jurisdiction. But if he has left, maybe he has not even gone back to Russia. Maybe he has gone to a different country and gone into hiding. But we will look into this matter and be sure about what the situation really is and what action ought to be taken,” he added.

    He also warned the public against sharing the videos on social media, stressing that doing so is a criminal offence under Ghana’s cybersecurity laws.

    “What we are urging is that if you are not the original person who recorded the video but choose to share it on your social media, that is also an offence under the Act, and it attracts not less than one year and not more than three years’ imprisonment.

    “For those who think, ‘I’m not the one who recorded the video; the video is already out, and I’m only sharing it,’ if the affected individuals decide to make an official complaint to the Cybersecurity Authority, such persons can be brought to book,” he added.

    Background

    A man known as Yaytseslav, who claims to be Russian, became a trending topic in Ghana after videos of his interactions with several Ghanaian women emerged online on February 12, 2026.

    Many of the videos showed him in the Accra Mall area, interacting with female shoppers and acquaintances during public outings.

    Reports indicate that he later invited some of the women to his apartment, recording their conversations and private encounters using Meta glasses—allegedly without their consent—before sharing the intimate content online.

  • John Dramani Mahama visits victims of Burkina Faso terror attack receiving care at 37 Military Hospital

    John Dramani Mahama visits victims of Burkina Faso terror attack receiving care at 37 Military Hospital

    President John Dramani Mahama has visited two survivors of the terrorist attack in Burkina Faso who are currently receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital.

    The visit took place on Wednesday, February 18. The victims were among Ghanaian tomato traders travelling in a truck that was ambushed by armed assailants. The attackers reportedly separated the men on board, killed them, and later set the vehicle on fire.

    The President, accompanied by Julius Debrah, sympathised with the injured traders and assured them that the government would settle their medical bills.

    The President, who had earlier undertaken an official assignment in Takoradi, proceeded directly to the hospital upon arrival to interact with the victims and obtain first-hand accounts of the incident.

    Seven Ghanaians who lost their lives in the attack have since been laid to rest, while the survivors were safely evacuated and brought back home by the Ghana Armed Forces.

    All of them are receiving counselling and the required psychological support, while those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical care.

    A truck carrying Ghanaian tomato traders was attacked by terrorists in Titao, Burkina Faso on Sunday, February 15. This was contained in a press release issued to media houses and signed by the Minister for the Interior and National Security, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak.

    “The Government of Ghana has received disturbing information from Burkina Faso of a truck carrying tomato traders from Ghana, which was caught in a terrorist attack in Titao,” the release said.

    According to the Ministry, Ghana Embassy in Burkina Faso has already launched an investigation into the unfortunate incident.

    “The Ghana Embassy in Burkina Faso is liaising with officials of Burkina Faso to visit the attack site for details and identification of Ghanaians caught in the attack,” the statement added. Parts of the Sahel region have recently experienced heightened terrorist attacks.

    Meanwhile, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have formally broke away from the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) due to diplomatic tensions after military takeovers and due to economic and social failures by past governments.

    The military juntas of these countries are led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, General Assimi Goïta, and General Abdourahmane Tchiani, respectively.

    The trio accused the ECOWAS of failing to safeguard member states and deviating from founding principles and Pan-African spirit.

    In response to these claims, ECOWAS revealed that it did not receive formal notice before their withdrawal; therefore, it called for a dialogue to address their concerns.

    “The ECOWAS Commission remains seized with the development and shall make further pronouncements as the situation evolves,” it added.

    President John Dramani Mahama extended invitations to the military leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to participate in the official launch of ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary celebrations, which took place in Accra on April 22.

    The invitation to the Sahelian states was part of Ghana’s broader efforts to rebuild relations and enhance cooperation for a stable and united West African region.

    International Relations Analyst Dr. Yaw Gebe endorsed President John Dramani Mahama’s decision, describing the gesture as a positive step toward regional reconciliation.

    He, however, advised the ECOWAS to critically reflect on the underlying reasons behind the exit of the Sahel nations and emphasised the need for the bloc to adopt a more inclusive and problem-solving approach going forward.

    “My prayer and longing is that whatever the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu or President John Mahama are doing, they should be conscious of the problems or challenges these countries are facing. The ECOWAS must be willing and ready to tackle those problems collectively. And that is a major shortcoming on the part of ECOWAS,” he said.

    Despite the formal withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on January 29, citizens from these countries will still be able to use their national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo for travel within the region.

    ECOWAS has assured that in the interest of regional cooperation and to prevent unnecessary disruptions, all relevant authorities within and outside the bloc’s member states should continue to recognize these travel documents until further notice.

    Additionally, trade and economic activities involving these three nations will not face immediate restrictions. Goods and services from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will continue to receive the same treatment under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.

    Citizens from the affected countries will also retain their right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment across ECOWAS states, ensuring that travel and cross-border activities remain unhindered.

    Furthermore, officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger working within ECOWAS will be given full support and cooperation in carrying out their assignments.

    These measures will remain in place as ECOWAS leaders work on defining the future relationship between the bloc and the three nations. A special structure has been put in place to facilitate discussions on the next steps.

    The regional body emphasized that these transitional arrangements aim to maintain stability, minimize confusion, and support the people and businesses affected by the withdrawal.

  •  Lawsuit against Medikal ongoing after failed private resolution – Alabaster Box

     Lawsuit against Medikal ongoing after failed private resolution – Alabaster Box

    Gospel music ensemble Alabaster Box has confirmed that its legal battle with rapper Medikal is still ongoing, following failed attempts to settle the matter privately.

    Speaking to Hitz FM, the group said its legal team is actively pursuing the case after all efforts to reach an amicable resolution outside court did not succeed.

    They explained that initial negotiations involved discussions through intermediaries, aiming to handle the dispute professionally. Both parties had agreed to engage neutral representatives, but the process broke down when lawyers became involved.

    “Our intention was never to escalate tensions but to reach a fair resolution through mutual understanding,” the group said. “The first thing we did was call his people, and they brought in a middle person. We also brought our middle person, who happened to be a lawyer, and they ran away from that prospect. Even when we brought in the lawyer, it wasn’t like we were going to squeeze them. We were hoping to settle this properly.”

    The group added that the court granted permission for substitute service after attempts to formally deliver legal documents to Medikal were unsuccessful. This allowed notices to be served via alternative methods, including public postings and digital platforms, following court procedures.

    Alabaster Box said the matter now rests entirely with the judiciary, noting that any potential out-of-court resolution would require court oversight.

    Expressing disappointment, the group lamented that early efforts at dialogue did not produce results despite their approach with professionalism and maturity. They remain confident that justice will be served.

    At the time of filing this report, neither Medikal nor his representatives had commented on the group’s recent statement.

    Nearly a week after signalling plans to pursue legal action against rapper Medikal, Ghanaian a cappella group Alabaster Box has filed a lawsuit against the ‘Omo Ada’ hitmaker, accusing him of using part of their song Akwaaba without consent.

    The group had earlier alleged that Medikal incorporated portions of their song into his latest release, Welcome to Africa.

    In a letter addressed to the rapper, the group indicated that the opening 10 seconds of “Welcome to Africa” is a reproduction of their original work.

    They further argued that the title and lyrical composition of Medikal’s song suggest that it is influenced by Alabaster Box’s “Akwaaba.”

    The group also claimed that Medikal’s extensive promotion and distribution of the song across major streaming platforms further aggravates the alleged infringement.

    Through their lawyers, they demanded the immediate removal of “Welcome to Africa” from all digital and traditional media platforms.

    They also called for a halt to all promotional activities, performances, or commercial dealings connected to the track, as well as the cancellation of agreements linked to its production and distribution.

    Additionally, Alabaster Box requested that Medikal provide detailed accounts of revenue generated from the song and disclose all individuals or organisations involved in its promotion and distribution.

    They warned that failure to comply with these demands would result in legal proceedings against the rapper.

    According to a writ of summons signed by the group’s lawyer, Richard Nunekpeku, Medikal removed only the first 10 seconds of the song from YouTube, while versions containing the disputed material remain available on other streaming platforms, including Audiomack, Boomplay, Spotify, and Apple Music.

    The writ says deleting the first ten seconds without even contacting us is disrespectful and an admission of guilt.

    Alabaster Box is therefore seeking general damages for Medikal’s alleged copyright infringement in the amount of Ten Million Ghana Cedis (GH₵10 million).

    They are also requesting exemplary damages totalling Five Million Ghana Cedis (GH₵5 million) for Medikal’s actions and for associating their brand with profane lyrics in his song – GHS5 million.

    See writ below:

  • I have encountered ladies under the influence of ‘Kayamata’ who rejected deliverance – Nigel Gaisie

    I have encountered ladies under the influence of ‘Kayamata’ who rejected deliverance – Nigel Gaisie

    Founder and leader of the Prophetic Hill Chapel, Nigel Gaisie, has narrated his encounters with ladies possessed by Kayamata, linking it to marine spirits and demonic forces.

    Sharing the story in a GhanaWeb documentary aired on February 18, 2026, the outspoken preacher, a lady once approached him at church to confess her involvement with kayamata and revealed deep spiritual encounters connected to it.

    “I’ve had an opportunity whereby one lady came to church, sensing and knowing the grace of God I have upon me, she had to actually come to me. She told me the genesis of the kayamata and she’s gone very deep that the spirit manifests itself every 12 midnight in her room. Within the space of 12 midnight to 4 a.m., the spirit physically manifests itself to them,” he said.

    Nigel Gaisie added, “Kayamata is of the marine kingdom. We have different agents of the devil, such as the dwarfs and other kinds of demons. One of the greatest agents of the devil are the powers in the sea and in the powers of the sea, we have `Maame wata’. Maame wata have millions of demons and other agents of the devil, so that comes from the Queen of the Coast,” he claimed.

    He added that breaking free from such practices often becomes challenging when the person involved is unwilling to abandon them.

    “It becomes difficult if the person you’re delivering has not decided to accept the fact that they want to be delivered,” he shared.

    Recounting a separate experience, he said he once tried to pray for a woman believed to be using kayamata to lure men, but she declined spiritual help.

    “I wanted to pray for a lady who has used the kayamata to enthuse men, but she said no. She’s under a spell, but she’s not willing to let it go. You can pray for her as a man of God, but after that, any spirit of the devil that’s cast out, they don’t go and sleep,” he explained.

    He continued, “They hang around and come back again. It depends on the person you’re delivering, whether the person is willing to let go or the person will go back.”

    Nigel Gaisie also claimed that certain individuals engage in both physical and ritual practices to exert influence over others.

    “Some people even inject their tongue and they put things on their tongue to induce people. They use a blade and some satanic instruments, so when they’re speaking, it will influence you not to have your own thoughts. These things are very true and they really exist,” he added.

    They are aphrodisiacs, oils, herbs, potions, or other substances, and their sole function is to improve romantic relations or sex.

    It is a combination of two Hausa words – ‘Kayan’ which means; property, or things, and ‘Mata’ which means women. Put together, the word literally means ‘women’s things’.

    It appears to have existed for centuries and originated from Northern Nigeria.

    Originally, it was used by these women for sexual pleasure, and served as enhancers, or aphrodisiacs, especially for young brides, but in recent times, it has become a really huge trend for women all over the world.

    In Ghana, the trend has become very prevalent and these products are even advertised via the internet and on various social media platforms.

    Patrons of these products have diverse interests, to attract men for money, sex, marriage, etc.

    What some may not know is how the Kayan Mata (kayamata) is used by its clients.

    In a post on media personality – Naa Ashorkor’s Facebook page, she indicates how some women with in-depth knowledge about how people use the Kayan Matan for their ‘victims’ shared this with her on her show; ‘Just us’.

    According to her, she picked some pointers which include the fact that the Kayan Mata products are in 3 categories; vaginal upgrade, faithfulness, and libido boosting, and the third; favour and attraction potions.

    Users of the potion need to talk to the oil and indicate exactly what they want from it and it happens.

    “In order to activate the potion, you simply talk to the oil. For instance – “oil, please let me attract rich men who can buy me a car”. When you go out, the men will literally be falling over themselves for you. They can’t help it,” she wrote.

    She however indicated that some men who called into the show also shared how the male variation referred to as ‘For girls’ is used by some men for similar interests.

    “Interestingly, when I activated the phone lines to ask ladies to share their experiences, only men called! Apparently, Kayan mata is a variation of “For girls’ and the men have interesting stories about the potency of this potion. Scary! One guy said his friend used it to get his wife to accept his marriage proposal. So this woman is currently under a spell. Apparently, a lot of married people are under spells they are not aware of,” Naa Ashorkor narrated.

    Naa Ashorkor also shared stories of how some users of these products suffered side effects or had experiences which didn’t go in their favour.

    In one instance, a woman who tried using it to attract men ended up attracting mad men. In another, a woman who tried using it on another man who already had activated the ‘For girls’ potion ended up dying.

    “A lady who bought and used attraction potion now attracts only “mad men” literally, in traffic, they approach her and try to touch her, they literally chase her around town, sometimes more than one at a time. When she complained to the vendor she bought it from, she told her to go to Benin to see the original seller. There is no other way to undo this charm,” she shared.

    Adding, that “The side effects are dire. Sometimes you cannot break away from this spell or spirit even if you want to. My guest shared a story about a girl who used it on a man, the man apparently had more potent potions which killed her. She is dead oo”.

  • There is no court order against Daddy Lumba’s celebration of life – Family clarifies

    There is no court order against Daddy Lumba’s celebration of life – Family clarifies

    The family of late Highlife legend Daddy Lumba has dismissed reports that a planned Celebration of Life event in Accra has been halted by a court injunction.

    The clarification follows claims that the Accra High Court had granted Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu, head of the Lumba family, leave to file an injunction against Akosua Serwaa and others organising what has been described as a “second funeral” for the music icon. The development was earlier confirmed by Dominic Kwadwo Osei of Baba Jamal & Associates.

    However, Ernestina Fosu, elder sister of the late musician, has refuted the claims, insisting that no court order has been issued to stop the ceremony.

    “It has come to our attention that some individuals, including certain social media commentators and comedians, are spreading claims that the upcoming Celebration of Life, even in Accra, has been halted due to a possible injunction,” she stated.

    “We wish to state clearly and unequivocally that this is false. There is no injunction stopping the event. The Celebration of Life of Daddy Lumba will proceed as planned,” she added.

    The dispute stems from disagreements over arrangements for events being organised in honour of the late Highlife star, with differing factions reportedly pursuing separate memorial plans.

    Gospel artiste and confidant of the late Highlife great, Daddy Lumba, Evangelist Papa Shee, has revealed intentions to hold a ‘celebration of life’ event to honour the celebrated musician.

    In a video that has gained widespread attention online, Papa Shee stated that the programme is scheduled for March 28 and 29, 2026, in Accra.

    He clarified that the occasion is meant to honour and celebrate Daddy Lumba’s life and contributions rather than serve as a funeral.

    He indicated that the arrangement and information about the programme were relayed by the late musician’s family.

    “His wife, Akosua Serwaa, will definitely be there. The family will also be at the funeral. But the venue this time will be in Accra, the date will be on the 28th and 29th of March 2026. It will be a celebration of the life of Daddy Lumba. That is the information from the family; the exact venue has not been disclosed yet,” he said.

    Papa Shee further invited the public to attend, urging admirers, sympathisers, and loved ones to join in commemorating the legend.

    He also thanked individuals who showed support to Akosua Serwaa, especially those who received her at the airport earlier in January.

    Papa Shee said the demonstration of kindness and unity would remain unforgettable.

    “Everyone is duly invited. We would like to appreciate the supporters of Akosua Serwaa, especially those who came to welcome her at the airport. The love they showed her will never be forgotten, especially after the name tarnishing she has received over the years,” he added.

    The planned event follows the contentious funeral rites of the Highlife icon, held on December 13, 2025, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, months after his death in July 2025. The ceremony drew large crowds of fans, relatives, and dignitaries who gathered to honour his impact.

    Akosua Serwaa, who is legally married to Daddy Lumba, did not attend the funeral, which came amid a public legal dispute involving the musician’s two wives.

    She maintained that her legal marriage entitled her to be recognised as Daddy Lumba’s sole wife.

    The disagreement was later settled by a Kumasi High Court, which directed that both women be acknowledged.

    Despite having thirty-three albums to his name before his passing, the Ghanaian highlife legend, according to his former manager, Ernest Toah Akonor, still has songs that were never released.

    During a media engagement on the sidelines of Daddy Lumba’s one-week observance, held on Saturday, August 30, at Independence Square, Mr. Akonor hinted that these songs could be released on his birthday this month, September 29, which would have been his 61st.

    According to the former manager and old friend of Lumba, despite having several unreleased tracks, about six of them were fully worked on and mastered, while the others were still in the works.

    “…But before he passed, he had done six songs that were complete, and I know where they are. We should be expecting it maybe on his birthday, which would have been his 61st on September 29. So maybe that will be when the first song will be released,” Akonor disclosed.

    Despite the hint of a release of one of these songs on his birthday, Mr. Akonor, however, noted that it would not be an easy process given the current misunderstanding and tensions within the family of the late musician.

    “Well, this is, I thought, it has legal implications because we need to deal with families and children. So we have to go through that legal list before we can come out and say that we are releasing. But we wish that by that time we’ll be able to go through all that because already there’s too much tension, as you can see.

    “So, people have taken sides, as you would expect. People have taken sides, belonging to one faction or the other. All these things have to be ironed out so that it will pave the way for the release of the song,” he said.

    Lumba always wanted to produce the best for his consumers, according to Mr. Akonor. While efforts will be made to release some of the said songs, they will have to be done in a way he would have done it, citing that Lumba was known for recording his songs in Ghana; however, the mastering of the tracks was mostly done by an engineer in Germany who passed some years before the legend’s passing some weeks ago.

    “He records here (Ghana), but he masters it in Germany. Unfortunately, the guy doing the mastering for him also passed away some years ago.”

    https://youtube.com/watch?v=BWQlYG3nXDs%3Frel%3D0%26modestbranding%3D1

    The former manager also recommended that, the music of Lumba and his persona as a musician be studied, stating that “I said it before somewhere that the man is a moving institution. Okay. People must study his music. As of today, we’re now beginning to understand some of the lyrics he wrote

    “I’ve told you that he is an institution. So we must have some kind of a museum or something where his works can be showcased and get value for them for generations. And there are several songs that I know he has written that have not come out, and it will be a platform to begin to launch some of these things as time goes on,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Daddy Lumba’s one-week observation was held at Independence Square on Saturday, August 30th. Originally scheduled to be held at the University of Ghana Stadium, it had to be moved due to the ban on drumming and noise-making in the La Traditional Area which had effected a 25-day ban.

    According to the Council, the University of Ghana Stadium falls within its jurisdiction, and currently, a ban on drumming and noise-making is in effect, hence the need for a reconsideration of the venue, cancellation or postponement.

    The Council noted that, while they acknowledge the legend’s impact, it shall not compromise the traditions, as during this sacred period their leader, Niimei, would have visited the spiritual realm and noises that jeopardise the spiritual order shall not be accepted.

    “…On behalf of Niimei and the good people of La, the La Homowo Planning Committee wishes to first express its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and the entire nation for the loss of such a towering international music icon whose legacy remains undeniable.

    “However, the Council wishes to firmly remind the general public that, effective Monday, 11th August 2025, a ban on noisemaking came into force across the entire La Traditional Area stretching from the main La township to Maalejor on the Dodowa road and Ayi Mensah at the foot of the Aburi mountains. Aside from the general noisemaking, this ban also strictly prohibits funerals and all funeral-related activities of any kind.

    “During this sacred period, Niimei would have entered the spiritual realm, and as such, no activity that contravenes the cultural and spiritual order will be tolerated.” Any such planned activity must be postponed, rescheduled, or cancelled outright,” the Council noted in a statement.

    The iconic musician passed away at age 60 on the morning of Saturday, July 26, while receiving treatment at the Bank Hospital in Accra, following a short illness, as announced by the family through their lawyer.

    Though some government officials visited earlier following his passing, while President Mahama also mourned the musician publicly in a heartfelt tribute, on Sunday, July 27, through his official X (formerly Twitter) account. In his message, President Mahama described Daddy Lumba as a “national treasure” whose music provided the “soundtrack to our lives”.

    While President Mahama expressed his condolences to the family and Ghana as well as fans beyond Ghana, he paid no visit to Lumba’s residence, seemingly waiting for an official notification from the family.

    On Monday, 25 August, the family paid a courtesy call on Chief of Staff Julius Debrah at the Jubilee House to observe traditional protocol and formally communicate the news.

    Discussions on the funeral arrangements and possible state support to honour the late music icon were held.

    During the discussion, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, noted that, if money could save a life, maybe a try would have been given, citing that “If money could save a life, we would have found a way. This is not just a loss for the family but for the entire nation.”

    Mr Debrah eulogised the musician for his soul-lifting songs, which resonate with many, including himself and the president.

    “The President loved Daddy Lumba’s songs. When he sits in his car and sings along, you’d be amazed — so this is a great loss to us all,” assuring the family that “We can’t say we won’t honour him, especially considering how well he honoured Ghana with his music,” Julius Debrah noted.

    Since the news of his passing, scores of Ghanaians have poured in tributes to honour his memory and the legacy he leaves behind.

    A book of condolence was been opened in honour of the late highlife legend Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, the family of the musician has announced.

    In an official statement issued on July 27 by his lawyers, Baba Jamal & Associates, on behalf of the bereaved family, the family invited all well-wishers, friends, fans, and family to sign the condolence book, which will be available at Daddy Lumba’s private residence in East Legon.

    He died at 60 leaving behind thirty-three (33) albums to his name.

    He is celebrated as one of Ghana’s greatest Highlife musicians with a career spanning more than three decades.

    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 Centre.

    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, travelled 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.