TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • 2 arrested for acid attack at Aboso in Tarkwa

    2 arrested for acid attack at Aboso in Tarkwa

    The Western Central Regional Police Command has apprehended two individuals for an acid attack that occurred at Aboso in the Tarkwa Municipality.

    After appearing before the Tarkwa District Magistrate Court, the first accused (likely to be a minor) and the second accused, Victor Vorgah (19), were remanded into prison custody by His Honor Charles Owusu.

    They have been charged with of Abetment of Crime, contrary to Section 20(1) of the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29); and Causing Unlawful Harm, contrary to Section 69 of the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29).

    According to preliminary reports from the Police Service, at Aboso Mandeline Junction, the first accused confronted the victim, pushing him from behind, which led to a confrontation. He later returned in the company of the second accused, carrying a polythene bag containing a bottle with a substance suspected to be acid, and poured it on the victim’s face.

    Both accused persons were arrested on August 9. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to apprehend one other suspect, popularly known as “Black”, who is currently at large.

    The Western Central Regional Police Command has entreated members of the general public with credible information leading to the arrest of suspect “Black” to contact the Aboso Police or the nearest police station.

    Earlier this month, the Tamale High Court sentenced to death a student at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Salifu Nurudeen, for the murder of his colleague, Wumpini Mohammed Zakiu, in a crime of passion.

    Per reports, Nurudeen attacked the deceased after his girlfriend, also a UDS student, left him for Wumpini. In September 2024, Wumpini was found dead with multiple stab wounds. His phone was nowhere to be found at the crime scene.

    It was later discovered under Nurudeen’s bed, following investigations by the Police cybercrime unit. In court, the prosecution provided evidence that showed that Nurudeen had sent messages from the victim’s phone—one breaking up with his girlfriend (Nurudeen’s ex) and another to Wumpuni’s friend.

    After being arrested at Jubilee Park, the convict denied murdering Wumpini but admitted to sending the said text messages. Nurudeen was found guilty of murder by the Tamale High Court.

    In recent times, Ghana has recorded a number of crimes of passion. In most instances, the party suspecting infidelity attacks the other party with acid or murders them in a bizarre manner, either by poisoning, gunshot, or cutlass wounds. The number of cases reported as a result of crimes of passion is unknown; however, the cases are expected to be substantial. Many members of the general public are now extra cautious before getting themselves into romantic relationships, as the mental state of their partners are mostly unknown until an unfortunate incident happens.

    The Koforidua Police have reapprehended a 29-year-old woman, Vera Akosua Asare, for the death of her boyfriend, Daniel Omane, whom she attacked with acid.

    Earlier this year, Vera Asare was arrested after her boyfriend sustained severe injuries following her attack.

    Per reports, Vera poured acid on Daniel Omane while he was asleep in his room over suspected infidelity.

    The two are said to have a child together. Following Vera’s action, Omane screamed, alerting their neighbors, who prevented Vera from bolting. Her co-tenants handed her over to the police. Omane Daniel was transported to the Eastern Regional Hospital. Since March, he had been in critical condition.

    Vera Asare was initially remanded after her arrest but was subsequently granted bail by the court to enable her to cater for her child while Omane received treatment.

    Per reports, Daniel Omane succumbed to his injuries a few days ago after months, leading to the rearrest of Vera, who is expected to face fresh charges following her lover’s death.

    In May this year, a 30-year-old woman, Mavis Nkrumah, was arrested by the Greater Accra Regional Police Command for allegedly pouring a liquid substance suspected to be acid on her ex-boyfriend at Ablekuma Fan Milk, a suburb of Accra.

    The Police’s preliminary investigation suggests that on the night of the attack, May 28, Mavis appeared unannounced at the victim’s residence at approximately 1:00 a.m. 

    The victim, Gideon Frimpong, a 29-year-old taxi driver, engaged her in a brief conversation, during which Mavis asked him to drive her home. Gideon agreed and offered to take her.

    On reaching a section of the road, Gideon requested Mavis to alight since the road ahead was bumpy and rough and his vehicle could not drive there. 

    During the stop at Ofankor, a 7-day stretch, Mavis questioned him about their relationship. After the third confirmation of their breakup, she poured the substance suspected to be acid on him.

    The victim, Gideon Frimpong, was identified by a group of people and subsequently rushed to the hospital, where he was treated for injuries sustained. He has since been discharged.

    Mavis Nkrumah is said to have fled the scene after the incident and attempted to bolt into a neighbouring country.

    She was, however, apprehended on June 3, by the police and is currently in custody, assisting the police with their investigations.

    The use of harmful substances by grieving partners has become rife in the country. Many lives have been lost due to an emotional heartbreak or cheating. 

    The Accra Regional Police Command has therefore cautioned the public to seek lawful and peaceful means of resolving issues. 

    “Acts of violence are criminal and will be dealt with by the law,” the Police reaffirmed.

    Meanwhile, the Police remain committed to ensuring public safety and urge all to report suspicious or harmful behaviour promptly to the nearest police station.

    The Criminal Offences Act states that “a person who intentionally causes the death of another person by an unlawful harm commits murder, unless the murder is reduced to manslaughter by reason of an extreme provocation, or any other matter of partial excuse.”

    A person who commits murder is liable to suffer death, per the country’s laws. A person who attempts to commit murder commits a first degree felony. A person who, being under sentence of imprisonment for three years or more, attempts to commit murder is liable to suffer death.

    Genocide

    (1) A person who commits genocide is liable on conviction to be sentenced to death.

    (2) A person commits genocide where, with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, any national, ethical, racial or religious group, that person

     (a) kills members of the group;

     (b) causes serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;

     (c) deliberately inflicts on the group conditions of life calculated to bring its physical destruction in whole or in part;

     (d) imposes measures intended to prevent births within the group;

    (e) forcibly transfers children of the group to another group.

    A person who commits manslaughter commits a first-degree felony. A person who causes the death of another person by an unlawful harm commits manslaughter, but if the harm causing the death is caused by negligence, that person has not committed manslaughter unless the negligence amounts to a reckless disregard for human life.

    Intentional murder reduced to manslaughter

    A person who intentionally causes the death of another person by unlawful harm commits manslaughter, and not murder or attempted murder, if that person

     (a) was deprived of the power of self-control by an extreme provocation given by the other

    person as is mentioned in sections 53, 54, 55 and 56; or

     (b) was justified in causing harm to the other person, and, in causing harm in excess of the harm

    which that person was justified in causing, that person acted from a terror of immediate death or grievous harm that in fact deprived that person for the time being of the power of self-control; or

     (c) in causing the death, acted in the belief, in good faith and on reasonable grounds, of being under a legal duty to cause the death or to do the act which that person did; or

     (d) being a woman she caused the death of a child, which is a child under the age of twelve months, at a time when the balance of her mind was disturbed because she had not fully recovered from the effect of giving birth to the child or by reason of the effect of lactation consequent on the birth of the child.

  • Man arrested near Sekondi for murder of 17-year-old brother

    Man arrested near Sekondi for murder of 17-year-old brother

    Anthony Acquah is currently behind bars for the murder of his 17-year-old sibling, Francis Mensah, at Manpong-Pepease, a suburb of Sekondi, on August 16, 2025.

    He was apprehended on August 20 by the Police in the Kwesiminstim District of the Western Region at his hideout at Kojokrom based on tangible intelligence.

    Per a statement by the Police, preliminary investigations disclosed that Anthony had a misunderstanding with his younger brother on August 16. The misunderstanding that occurred in the evening escalated, leading to Francis being stabbed by Anthony.

    Anthony, after the incident, is said to have gone into hiding but was later found out by the police. He is currently in Police custody aiding with investigations.

    What the law says about murder

    A person who commits murder is liable to suffer death, per the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

    A person who intentionally causes the death of another person by an unlawful harm commits murder, unless the murder is reduced to manslaughter by reason of an extreme provocation, or any other matter of partial excuse.

    A person who attempts to commit murder commits a first-degree felony. A person who, being under sentence of imprisonment for three years or more, attempts to commit murder is liable to suffer death.

    A person who commits genocide is liable on conviction to be sentenced to death. A person commits genocide where, with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, any national, ethical, racial or religious group, that person
    (a) kills members of the group;
    (b) causes serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;
    (c) deliberately inflicts on the group conditions of life calculated to bring its physical destruction
    in whole or in part;
    (d) imposes measures intended to prevent births within the group;
    Genocide
    (1) A person who commits genocide is liable on conviction to be sentenced to death.
    (2) A person commits genocide where, with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, any national,
    ethical, racial or religious group, that person
    (a) kills members of the group;
    (b) causes serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;
    (c) deliberately inflicts on the group conditions of life calculated to bring its physical destruction
    in whole or in part;
    (e) imposes measures intended to prevent births within the group;

    A person who commits manslaughter commits a first degree felony. A person who causes the death of another person by an unlawful harm commits manslaughter, but if the harm causing the death is caused by negligence that person has not committed manslaughter unless the negligence amount to a reckless disregard for human life.

    In recent times, one of the most intriguing murder cases that has rocked the country involves Immigration Officer Stephen King Amoah.

    The Adabraka District Court on Friday, August 8, remanded the prime suspect in the murder of Stephen King Amoah into police custody for two weeks.

    The court will continue hearing the case today, August 22.

    Earlier this month, the Ghana Police rearrested the prime suspect in the gruesome murder of immigration officer Stephen King Amoah, also known as Nana Kofi.

    This followed the discovery of weapons believed to have been used in the murder of Immigration Officer Stephen Amoah.

    During a press briefing on Monday, August 4, the Director-General of the CID, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, revealed that bloodstains were found in the living room, on a burnt, blood-soaked carpet, and on a fufu pestle suspected to have been used in the murder by the suspect.

    According to the Police, the forensic investigation conducted on Thursday, July 24, also exposed freshly sprayed walls, hinting at an attempted cleanup by the suspect.

    “The Kwabenya Teshie Police visited the suspect’s residence, and the forensic inspection revealed the following bloodstains in the living room and evidence of attempted cleanup, freshly sprayed walls, and an empty can of spray paint. A search of a secondary crime scene near the GBC satellite area also uncovered a burnt woolen carpet and partially burnt camouflage fabric.”

    “These items were photographed, retrieved and photocopied for forensic analysis. On 24th July, the police received a warrant to search a particular room in the suspect’s house. A search in the room revealed more bloodstains, which were photographed and samples collected for forensic analysis. A further search in the bushes about 100 metres from the suspect’s house also led to the retrieval of the…” the Police said.

    The Service has noted that in the coming days, undertake a DNA exercise on the bloodstains with samples from the deceased mother and son, aiding with the process.

    “I wish to say that the initial blood sample collected was positive for human blood. To aid the investigations, the deceased mother and son has provided sample for DNA profiling. In the face of these pieces of evidence the suspect who was initially charged with kidnapping has since been rearrested and formally charged with murder. He is currently on remand following his appearance with the Adabraka District Court and is scheduled to reappear on 8th August 2025.

    “A special operation is currently underway to identify and arrest his accomplices and we are following other vital leads to gather all necessary evidence against the suspect and his accomplices. The Ghana Police Service wishes to assure the public that the investigations is ongoing and every effort is being made to ensure that all the perpetrators are prosecuted,” she added.

    The suspect is scheduled to appear in court on August 8th. The lifeless body of the immigration officer was discovered in a drainage system near GBC Satellite, opposite Comet Estate, Accra, on Wednesday, July 9.

    The deceased is said to have gone missing five days (since July 3) before his tragic death. This was contained in a press statement by the Ghana Police Service on Thursday, July 10.

    Providing more details about the tragic incident, the police noted that the murderer(s) of the 38-year-old also set his body on fire.

    The deceased’s remains have been conveyed to the Police Hospital morgue after the relatives positively identified the body as Stephen.

    The police have disclosed that their preliminary investigations indicate the deceased had gone to meet his debtor, one Bright Aweh, who had promised to pay the outstanding debt owed on Thursday, July 3, in the evening.

    The victim never returned home that night, and his phone remained switched off throughout, raising concerns among family and friends who later reported him missing.

    “Investigations revealed that on 3rd July 2025, at about 8:00 p.m., the deceased left his residence at Ashongman Estate after receiving WhatsApp images of cash bundles from one Bright Aweh, who requested to meet him at a spot at Ashongman Estate to settle an outstanding amount.

    “According to the complainant, the deceased never returned home that night, and his phone remained switched off thereafter,” the police said.

    After the deceased’s family filed a complaint at the police station, Bright Aweh was arrested to assist with the investigation.

    He admitted that he met with the deceased and alleged that he gave a cash of GHS500,000 to the deceased, instructing him “to use part of the money to pay off some debts and hold the remaining amount for later collection.”

    But the police in their statement noted that “the suspect could not clearly explain the source of the funds and gave conflicting statements.”

    Meanwhile, the police have pledged to get to the bottom of the case and ensure justice is served to the perpetrators.

    “The Regional Police Command strongly condemns such violent and criminal acts and assures the public that it is working diligently to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this incident and bring all responsible persons to justice,” it added.

    The police have also called on anyone with information relevant to the case to contact the nearest police station or call the police emergency numbers 18555 or 192.

  • You will not go scot-free – IGP warns troublemakers ahead of Akwatia by-election

    You will not go scot-free – IGP warns troublemakers ahead of Akwatia by-election

    Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has noted that individuals who attempt to cause any form of violence during the Akwatia by-election will be quickly whisked away by police personnel to face the full rigor of the law.

    According to the police, a mobile prison will be set up to detain suspects. The IGP made this information known to the media during the final day of a five-day intensive training at the High Risk Operations Training Centre (HROT-C) at Akyeremanteng in the Eastern Region.

    “There is no fear for Akwatia, this will be one of the best and peaceful elections because we are fully prepared. If you come quietly to vote, we will receive you quietly, if you have any intention of causing trouble, we will not allow you to go free, we will change your location. We will house you in different forms, before your trouble goes far.”

    “Under no circumstances will someone come to the polling station to create a problem and we will allow the person to go free,” the IGP said.

    The training included tactical drills such as rappelling, precision shooting, handcuffing, vehicle stop and search, crowd control, and human rights considerations. Over 5,000 police personnel are expected to be deployed to Akwatia for the by-election. 

    On 12th August 2025, the IGP and his team held a meeting with the Electoral Commission (EC) to discuss the broader roadmap for the polls. The discussions centered on coordination between the Police and the EC to ensure smooth operations before, during, and after the election. The EC also outlined its operational roadmap for the conduct of the by-election.

    Similarly, on 13th August 2025, the Police engaged the Institute of Democratic Governance (IDEG) at the National Police Headquarters. At the meeting, IDEG highlighted concerns related to electoral security, transparency, and the role of stakeholders in sustaining public confidence in the process.

    Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), on Tuesday, August 19, engaged various stakeholders ahead of the upcoming Akwatia by-election to discuss security arrangements to ensure peace, law, and order before, during, and after the polls.

    The meeting provided a platform for the Police Service to share security arrangements for the election with the political parties and also note their concerns from the service.

    The political party representatives expressed their appreciation for the engagement and among other things, called for fairness and transparency in security deployment to build trust in the process.

    The Ghana Police Service has noted that it will continue to engage stakeholders as we firm up operational preparations to ensure security law and order before, during, and after the election.

    IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno cautioned the political parties participating in the by-election against marching men to the polling stations to distrupt the electoral process.

    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he explained.

    “What I told them is that we are going in with Black Marias. Black Maria is the prison on wheels. We have a truck that is well prepared to keep people who cause trouble. We keep them in, and then finally, we discharge them at the police cells,” he added.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election will begin today, Wednesday, August 20.

    On Monday, August 4, the Electoral Commission conducted balloting to ensure fairness in the order in which candidates appear on the ballot paper.

    The two major political parties are preparing vigorously for the contest. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in Akwatia, Eastern Region, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2.

    This follows an internal election conducted by the party on Monday, August 4, to select a representative for the by-election. The competition was between former Member of Parliament Henry Boakye, the current NDC Akwatia Constituency Secretary Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and Erasmus Koney Ali.

    Bernard Bediako Baidoo polled 380 votes, Erasmus Ali Korney secured 366 votes, and Yiadom garnered 232 votes. On the other hand, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the upcoming by-election.

    According to the Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Jeff Konadu Addo, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders.

    He explained, “The National Council of the party set up a committee and we were tasked to find out who could be our candidate or whether we will do primaries or not.

    “So, the team went to Akwatia in the constituency, had a lot of engagement with the grassroots, electoral area coordinators, polling station officers, chiefs, opinion leaders, and the majority of the people said that for primaries, we should take it out. We shouldn’t conduct primaries in Akwatia. And that’s exactly what we followed.”

    Earlier, reports suggested that the widow of the late Member of Parliament, Mrs. Mavis Kumi, had expressed interest in contesting the seat. However, the Eastern Regional NPP Chairman, Jeff Konadu Addo, on Tuesday, July 15, dismissed such reports, emphasizing that campaign flyers making such claims were false.

    “We wish to categorically state that this information is false, misleading, and should be treated with the utmost contempt it deserves,” Jeff Konadu Addo said.

    He further clarified that Mrs. Mavis Kumi had no interest in contesting the position but was focused on mourning her husband.

    “She has unequivocally communicated that she has no interest in contesting the seat or participating in active politics at this time. Her current focus is to mourn her husband with dignity and in peace,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka, has urged security personnel who will be deployed to oversee the by-election in the Akwatia constituency to remain vigilant while carrying out their duties.

    He reminded them to reflect on the recent violence that occurred during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency and to work proactively to prevent a recurrence.

    According to him, the government will ensure that such incidents are not repeated in future elections. The minister made these remarks at the government’s accountability series in Accra on Monday, July 14.

    “This is also a wake-up call for our security agencies to know that probably what happened [in Ablekuma North]…gives our security agencies the opportunity to even plan better towards Akwatia.

    “All I can assure the people of Akwatia is that we will use Ablekuma North as a case study to review how we operate in Akwatia—to make sure that the citizens are free to cast their votes and express their will without fear or favour,” Muntaka added.

  • Degas Ltd announces $100m investment to make Ghana an AI-powered agric hub

    Degas Ltd announces $100m investment to make Ghana an AI-powered agric hub

    Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founder of Degas Limited, a Japanese business, Doga Makiura, has announced his outfit’s decision to invest $100m over the next four years to aid Ghana in becoming an AI-powered agricultural hub on the continent.

    Doga Makiura made this known during a meeting with President John Dramani Mahama on the sidelines of the Ghana Presidential Investment Forum.

    “Ghana has shown that when technology meets a clear national vision, smallholder farmers can thrive. Our $100 million commitment will scale AI-driven satellite monitoring and precision agriculture techniques so farmers can boost yields, reduce risk, and access fairly priced finance. We’ve already seen incomes double with a 95% repayment rate from the farmers,” he said.

    Mr Makiura revealed that many Japanese partners now consider Ghana’s integrated approach the gold standard for agricultural investment in Africa.

    He thus indicated that “President Mahama’s focus on value-chain integration aligns closely with Japan’s search for credible, scalable partnerships.”

    On his part, President John Dramani Mahama noted that the investment reinforces the commitment to integrated agricultural value chains that connect farmers to markets, finance, storage, and processing.

    “By leveraging AI and precision technologies, we will improve productivity, enhance food security, and create dignified jobs for youth across rural communities,” he added.

    In a related event, Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mohammed Adam Sukparu, has stated that the future of African business lies in digital trade and innovation.

    His comment came while delivering a speech on behalf of the sector Minister at the Africa Business Festival: “The CEO’s Connect Summit,” held in Accra on 21st August, 2025.

    “The future of Africa’s business lies not just in its markets, but in its innovation. If we digitize Africa, we globalize Africa,” he strongly stated while reaffirming the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to driving digital transformation across the continent.

    Highlighting the summit’s theme, Hon. Sukparu emphasised that digital tools and platforms are no longer optional, but are instead the very foundation of competitiveness, resilience, and global relevance. He said, “under the leadership of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, Ghana is actively implementing bold policies and investments to establish a digitally enabled economy, ranging from e-governance platforms to digital financial inclusion and broadband expansion into rural communities, ensuring no one is left behind.”

    He further stated that the Ministry is dedicated to strengthening support for startups, FinTechs, and entrepreneurs, aiming to solidify Ghana’s position as a hub of business and technology in Africa. The Minister further articulated that the future of African business lies in digital trade and innovation. Through e-commerce and digital platforms, African entrepreneurs can access new markets, scale globally, and transform industries. He stressed the critical need for Africa to move beyond being mere consumers of technology to becoming producers and innovators.

    This transformation, he noted, necessitates robust collaboration between governments, the private sector, and academia to build resilient digital economies capable of competing on the global stage. The Minister called upon entrepreneurs to adopt digital tools and platforms as a strategy for growth and competitiveness, and urged investors to deepen partnerships with Africa’s thriving tech ecosystem.

    A Ghana Report by PwC has revealed that 59% of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) in Ghana expect Generative AI to increase their company’s profit in 2025. However, 52% and 49% of CEOs in Africa and globally expect the same.

    “Aligned to these three data points representing CEOs’ trust in GenAI’s potential and their elation over early payoffs is CEOs’ confirmation of their readiness to continue to invest in the technology—66% of Ghana’s CEOs confirmed that they would continue to adopt/ embed GenAI across their companies over the next 12 months, i.e., in 2025,” the report added.

    PwC has been tracking CEOs’ interest in GenAI since the technology appeared on the radar of most executives a couple of years ago. Across Ghana, Africa, and globally, the report noted that CEOs’ interest in and appetite for adopting this new and rapidly evolving technology seems to have soared over a short period.

    “In 2023, when we asked CEOs about the extent to which they had adopted GenAI in their businesses, less than a quarter of CEOs (23%) in Ghana affirmed having done so. The proportion was slightly higher for Africa CEOs (26%) and discernibly high at the global level—a third of CEOs (32%).”

    The report revealed that CEOs’ responses to a question about what their plans are for the technology in 2025 might, however, suggest a slight softening in their implementation stances for the year. In PwC’s view, “softening” is not to suggest that executive interest in or appetite for the technology is waning. Rather, it is an expression—understandably—of CEOs’ caution following their stocktake of the technology’s performance against their expectations for the prior year. This signalled the need for business leaders to be strategic in their investment appraisals of the technology.

    In responding to the survey, PwC noted that CEOs reported that GenAI made appreciable contributions to their companies’ revenue growth and profitability, as well as to operational and employees’ efficiencies. “However, this performance slightly lagged CEO expectations for revenue growth and profitability, in particular,” the report added.

    An average of 63% of CEOs in Ghana noted they expected the new technology to enhance the time efficiencies of their workforce (including their own efficiency) at work. This matched the average percentage of Africa and global CEOs (61%) who expressed a similar expectation.

    “Perhaps, it was this positive sentiment about time efficiencies that led fewer CEOs (10% – 13%) to project workforce increases due to GenAI,” the report added. The report found that CEOs in Ghana appear more trustful of GenAI than CEOs in Africa and globally. “45% of them shared that they have a high degree of trust in having AI/ GenAI embedded into key processes in their company. In comparison, 33% and 35% of CEOs globally and in Africa, respectively, expressed similar sentiments of high trust,” the report noted.

    Govt’s take on AI

    Ghana in May launched the National AI Strategy Stakeholder Consultation Forum to highlight the critical importance of the initiative in positioning Ghana within the rapidly evolving global digital landscape.

    The Communications Minister, Sam Nartey George, outlined the enormous potential of AI to transform various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, logistics, smart cities, and financial inclusion.

    He, however, stressed the accompanying responsibilities concerning ethics, data privacy, governance, and inclusion, affirming the government’s determination to ensure that no one is left behind. “Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future concept. It is here and it is already reshaping our world,” the Minister stated emphatically.

    Under the leadership of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama, the government has set a clear ambition to make Ghana the AI Hub of Africa. This vision is being supported by concrete steps, including the renaming of the Ministry to explicitly include Digital Technologies and Innovation.

    IMF’s view

    In 2024, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) indicated that the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will impact 40 percent of the global workforce.

    “A recent IMF study shows that artificial intelligence could affect up to 40 percent of jobs across the world and 60 percent in advanced economies. It could enhance workers’ productivity but also threatens some jobs. Investing in digital infrastructure and skills, as well as in strong social safety nets will determine the pace of AI adoption and its impact on productivity.”

  • “You took me through the rightful processes” – Shatta Wale lauds EOCO

    “You took me through the rightful processes” – Shatta Wale lauds EOCO

    Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has lauded the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for their professionalism while in custody for investigations surrounding a 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a car identified by the FBI and the US Justice Department as proceeds of a $4 million crime.

    The $4 million crime involves Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian who is currently serving a jail term in the USA.

    He praised the establishment after being released from EOCO’s custody on Thursday night.

    In a video on social media, Shatta Wale revealed that while being detained, he was not abused but rather taken through necessary processes as required by the law.

    “To all the staff at EOCO, you guys have been wonderful. At least I came there and you guys really took me through the rightful processes that were needed. I just want to say God bless you,” he said.

    Shatta Wale also used the opportunity to thank his supporters who thronged the streets to demand his immediate release from EOCO.

    He acknowledged that no harm came his way while in custody and remains safe.

    “One Don is safe, I’m home now, and I want to say a big thank you [to fans] for supporting and being around me in times like this because I needed you guys the most and you held me down,”

    Shatta Wale was on Wednesday night granted bail of GHC10,000,000 with two sureties to be justified.

    However, he was not able to make bail, prompting his legal counsel to apply for a variation of bail. Subsequently, EOCO granted the singer bail of GHC5 billion with two sureties to be justified.

    Under the new conditions, Shatta Wale is required to report to EOCO three times a week as investigations continue.

    Shatta Wale was invited by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following a public claim on August 5 that he purchased the car in question at a price of US$150,000 from an unidentified party.

    According to EOCO in a press statement issued on August 21, an invitation was issued to Charles Nii Armah Mensah to report on August 13.

    This was, however, rescheduled for August 20, 2025 at 10am.

    “Counsel for Charles Nii Armah Mensah, indicated to EOCO officers that they would prefer to report at 11am. EOCO readjusted its schedule to align with their time. Shortly before 11am, Counsel for Nii Armah called EOCO to claim that his client was not available and that he was also busy,” a part of the statement noted.

    EOCO indicated to the singer’s Counsel that he and his client were expected to report as scheduled.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah arrived in the Office around 3pm and, according to EOCO, insisted that he was not going to cooperate until his counsel arrived, a right which he is entitled and was accorded him.

    “EOCO investigators and Charles Nii Armah Mensah waited from 11am till 5pm before his Counsel showed up. Incidentally, EOCO’s closing time is 5pm. Nevertheless, EOCO staff and the entire operational team chose to carry on with the interrogation which ended around 9pm. Officers eventually left the Office around 11pm,” the statement further revealed.

    Nii Armah was only granted bail around 9pm shortly after interrogation ended.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah would only leave EOCO’s custody after it undertakes surety inspection, which is a standard protocol.

    According to EOCO, Charles Nii Armah Mensah has been unable to identify the person from whom he purchased the said Lamborghini Urus vehicle.

    He is reported to have said he purchased it from the “Street” and from someone possibly called “ZAK” who may have contacted him on WhatsApp but whose identity he does not know and whose contact he has thrown away.

    Also, EOCO states that Charles Nii Armah Mensah does not also possess any documentation in terms of receipt or transfer documents which shows that he owns or purchased the said vehicle except a customs declaration document in his possession bearing the name of Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently in jail.

    Earlier this morning, die-hard fans of Shatta Wale started to mass up at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following the singer’s detention on Wednesday.

    They demanded his immediate release from EOCO detention.

    EOCO’s investigation forms part of a larger investigation regarding possible co-conspirators in the $4m crime which occurred in the US involving some Ghanaians and recoveries of the proceeds of the crime.

    Following requests from the FBI and the US Justice Department of EOCO to track the vehicle and conduct local investigations in respect of uncovering possible co-conspirators in Ghana, EOCO began looking for the vehicle until it was identified and seized in or around May this year in the possession of one Charles Nii Armah Mensah.

    On August 15, 2025, a United States District Court of the Eastern District of Kentucky, Central Division of Lexington in a criminal case of the United States of America vrs. Nana Kwabena Amuah issued an order Forfeiting Substitute Asset on the Lamborghini Urus in question, authorising the US Government to take possession of the said vehicle in Ghana as restitution for the crime.

  • Shatta Wale released from EOCO custody after bail variation

    Shatta Wale released from EOCO custody after bail variation

    Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has been released from the custody of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) after a bail variation.

    Shatta Wale was on Wednesday night granted bail of GHC10,000,000 with two sureties to be justified in investigations surrounding a 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a car identified by the FBI and the US Justice Department as proceeds of a $4 million crime.

    The $4 million crime involves Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian who is currently serving a jail term in the USA.

    However, he was not able to make bail, prompting his legal counsel to apply for a variation of bail. Subsequently, EOCO granted the singer bail of GHC5 billion with two sureties to be justified.

    Under the new conditions, Shatta Wale is required to report to EOCO three times a week as investigations continue.

    Shatta Wale was invited by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following a public claim on August 5 that he purchased the car in question at a price of US$150,000 from an unidentified party.

    According to EOCO in a press statement issued on August 21, an invitation was issued to Charles Nii Armah Mensah to report on August 13.

    This was, however, rescheduled for August 20, 2025 at 10am.

    “Counsel for Charles Nii Armah Mensah, indicated to EOCO officers that they would prefer to report at 11am. EOCO readjusted its schedule to align with their time. Shortly before 11am, Counsel for Nii Armah called EOCO to claim that his client was not available and that he was also busy,” a part of the statement noted.

    EOCO indicated to the singer’s Counsel that he and his client were expected to report as scheduled.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah arrived in the Office around 3pm and, according to EOCO, insisted that he was not going to cooperate until his counsel arrived, a right which he is entitled and was accorded him.

    “EOCO investigators and Charles Nii Armah Mensah waited from 11am till 5pm before his Counsel showed up. Incidentally, EOCO’s closing time is 5pm. Nevertheless, EOCO staff and the entire operational team chose to carry on with the interrogation which ended around 9pm. Officers eventually left the Office around 11pm,” the statement further revealed.

    Nii Armah was only granted bail around 9pm shortly after interrogation ended.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah would only leave EOCO’s custody after it undertakes surety inspection, which is a standard protocol.

    According to EOCO, Charles Nii Armah Mensah has been unable to identify the person from whom he purchased the said Lamborghini Urus vehicle.

    He is reported to have said he purchased it from the “Street” and from someone possibly called “ZAK” who may have contacted him on WhatsApp but whose identity he does not know and whose contact he has thrown away.

    Also, EOCO states that Charles Nii Armah Mensah does not also possess any documentation in terms of receipt or transfer documents which shows that he owns or purchased the said vehicle except a customs declaration document in his possession bearing the name of Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently in jail.

    Earlier this morning, die-hard fans of Shatta Wale started to mass up at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following the singer’s detention on Wednesday.

    They demanded his immediate release from EOCO detention.

    EOCO’s investigation forms part of a larger investigation regarding possible co-conspirators in the $4m crime which occurred in the US involving some Ghanaians and recoveries of the proceeds of the crime.

    Following requests from the FBI and the US Justice Department of EOCO to track the vehicle and conduct local investigations in respect of uncovering possible co-conspirators in Ghana, EOCO began looking for the vehicle until it was identified and seized in or around May this year in the possession of one Charles Nii Armah Mensah.

    On August 15, 2025, a United States District Court of the Eastern District of Kentucky, Central Division of Lexington in a criminal case of the United States of America vrs. Nana Kwabena Amuah issued an order Forfeiting Substitute Asset on the Lamborghini Urus in question, authorising the US Government to take possession of the said vehicle in Ghana as restitution for the crime.

  • Asanteman holds one-week celebration for late Asantehema

    Asanteman holds one-week celebration for late Asantehema

    The Asanteman on Thursday, August 21, held a one-week observation of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, that took place at Bogyawe, Manhyia Palace from 12 noon to 6:00 p.m.

    Ahead of the celebration, the Manhyia Palace announced a ban on all funerals across Asanteman on August 21. The 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom, Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, passed away on August 7 at age 98.

    On the eve of the Asantehemaa’s one-week observance, the Adumhene, together with his Abrafo, led a sacred procession to guard the royal palace. This rite, also performed during the lying-in-state, was accompanied by the resounding of drums and the rhythm of dance, continuing in vigil until the break of dawn.

    Political leaders, religious figures, and members of the diplomatic corps joined the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu and the Asanteman to mourn Nana Konadu Yiadom III. Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang led the government delegation, including Chief of Staff Julius Debrah to the Manhyia Palace.

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, sat in state, with over 70 paramount chiefs within the kingdom joining to mourn with him. The grounds were filled with drumming, dancing, and the firing of musketry.

    Nkoranzamanhene Awurade Baffoe, Nana Samgba Gyafla II, the Sampamanhene, Asafohene were at Manhyia Palace for the celebration.

    Prior to the celebration, the Asanteman Council banned indecent dressing—particularly prohibiting high-heeled shoes and long artificial nails that may be worn during the ceremony.

    The directive was announced by the Queenmother of Kokofu, Osagyefo Kusiwa Muah-Baayie, who has assumed the role of acting Queenmother of Asanteman. “We expect all mourners to dress decently and modestly. This is a sacred moment for Asanteman, and everyone must comport themselves in a manner befitting our customs,” she stated.

    On August 20, traditional leaders, religious bodies, individuals, and corporate institutions visited the Manhyia Palace to commiserate with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, over the demise of Nana Konadu Yiadom III.

    Profile of the late Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III

    Asantehemaa was named Nana Ama Konadu at birth and is also known by all as Nana Panin or Naa Panin. She later became Nana Konadu Yiadom III, after her enstoolment as the 14th Asantehemaa on February 6, 2016.

    She was born in 1927 at Benyaade Shrine at Merdan, a small town located at Kwadaso, Kumasi, in the days of the restoration of the Asante Confederacy.

    She was born to Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, Asantehemaa, who reigned from 1977 to 2016. Her father was known as Opanin Kofi Fofie, known popularly as Koofie or Keewuo, a carpenter by profession from Besease near Atimatim in Kumasi.

    At a very tender age, just when she was a little over a year old and being breastfed, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa, was separated from her biological mother and given to her aunt (mother’s sister), Nana Afia Konadu, at Ashanti New Town (Ash-Town), a suburb of Kumasi.

    Nanahemaa never had any formal education, but she underwent a rigorous and quality informal education, learning a lot of things that were not taught in the classroom.

     She was initiated and underwent puberty rites together with her niece, Nana Abena Ansa, in their early teens. She married Opanin Kwame Boateng, a blacksmith by profession from Aduman in Kumasi.

    She was religious, kindhearted, calm, fair and firm, hardworking, very humble, unassuming, and accommodating. In the mid-1990s, Kwaku Firi Bosomfo, the priest of Kwaku Firi, prophesied through Baffour Akoto, a Senior Linguist of Asantehene, that Nanahemaa would be Queen of Asante someday, and surely, it came to pass.

    Nanahemaa achieved a lot and has been recognized as such. Through her constant generosity in doing God’s work, the Saviour Church named a school after her, Nana Konadu Saviour School. She exhibited a high level of equity, justice, and fairness, and all cases brought before her have been settled amicably to the satisfaction of both parties involved.

    In celebrating her 5th Anniversary as Asantehemaa, she made a huge donation to the mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU), Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU) and Pediatric Emergency Unit (PEU) and paid for all the medical bills and expenses for new mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

    Nanahemaa started a vigorous campaign and instituted an annual event to encourage mothers to breastfeed their young ones, the main reason why she made a generous donation to the Mother-Baby Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

  • President Mahama assents to Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill 2025

    President Mahama assents to Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill 2025

    President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday, August 21, assented to the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025.

    The new Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025, Act 1146, introduces bold reforms aimed at ensuring sustainability, compliance, and improved livelihood, especially among the small-scale fishers.

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

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

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

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

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

    Key Highlights of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act 2025, Act 1146:
    Independent Fisheries Commission: Establishment of a fully autonomous body to develop, manage, and conserve fisheries and aquaculture resources.

    Strengthen Legal and Regulatory Framework: Alignment with international best practices, enhancing Ghana’s reputation and securing access to global markets.

    Safeguarding Seafood Exports: Protection of over $425 million in annual seafood exports by closing compliance gaps and avoiding trade sanctions.

    Stricter Enforcement Measures: Introduces tougher penalties against illegal fishing to restore depleted fish stocks and protect marine biodiversity.

    Protection of Fisherfolk: Improved safety, security, and welfare standards for crew and workers on fishing vessels.

    Expansion of the Inshore Exclusive Zone (IEZ): Extends the IEZ from 6 to 12 nautical miles, protecting breeding grounds and ensuring more catches to sustain the livelihoods of over 2.7 million artisanal fishers and food security.

    Minister of Education, Honourable Haruna Iddrisu, also appeared before Parliament for the approval of the University for Development Studies Bill 2025. Explaining the purpose of the bill to the House, Honourable Haruna Iddrisu noted that the bill seeks to establish the University for Development Studies (UDS) through the re-enactment of P.N.D.C.L. 279.

    This, he said, will help to restructure and empower the University for Development Studies to provide quality and higher education to meet the diverse and developmental needs of the country.

    On his part, Chairman of the Education Select Committee of Parliament, Honorable Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, acknowledged the significant structural changes that have taken place since the establishment of the UDS over the past 32 years of its existence.

    He highlighted the need to review P.N.D.C.L. 279 to bring the law into conformity with current policy and best practices adopted in public universities in Ghana to enhance the effectiveness of tertiary institutions in achieving their mandate.

    The Ghana Medical Trust Fund Bill, 2025, also known as MahamaCares, which was laid before Parliament on Monday, July 21 and subsequently approved, was opposed by the Minority. The caucus warned that it could put a strain on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) budget and its operations.

    The Mahama Cares fund is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare access for many Ghanaians, particularly those battling chronic diseases and unable to afford the necessary medical treatment. The Bill seeks to end favoritism in awarding scholarships, ensuring allocations are based on merit and need.  

    The Social Protection Bill 2025 will provide a legal framework for social protection programmes that will enhance accessibility and equity in the delivery of social services to the impoverished communities.

    “This bill will give legal backing and strengthen regulations of many social intervention initiatives in the country,” the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, said on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, July 31. 

    The Bill was passed after it faced strong opposition from the Minority in Parliament on Wednesday, July 30, who claimed that the proceedings lacked the required quorum. However, it has paved the way to set up the Social Protection Fund aimed at providing financial resources to tackle emergencies and the mobilisation of funds for social protection delivery.

    The programmes include the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP), the Ghana School Feeding Programme, Basic Education Capitation Grants, and the National Health Insurance Exemption, among others.

    Parliament, however, halted the consideration of the Ghana Scholarships Authority Bill, 2025, to allow for further consultations with stakeholders.

    Meanwhile, Parliament is set to introduce the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority (GIPA) Bill, which aims to amend the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act. Among the key changes is the proposed renaming of the institution from “Centre” to “Authority,” along with revisions to other core provisions.

    The Ghana Deposit Protection (Amendment) Bill is next on Parliament’s agenda. The Bill proposes to change or improve certain parts of the order that protects people’s savings in case a bank fails.

    The Exemptions (Amendment) Bill is a proposed law that intends to enhance how tax and duty exemptions are given in Ghana, ensuring that benefits are given to individuals who deserve them.

    The other Bills yet to be deliberated by Parliament include the Customs (Amendment) Bill, the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, the Revenue Administration (Amendment) Regulations, the Public-Private Partnership Regulations, Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) Amendment Regulations, the Exemptions Regulations, and the Conduct of Public Officers Bill.

    Also, the Criminal and Other Offences Procedure (Amendment) Bill, Economic and Organised Crime Office Bill, Ghana Industrial Property Office Bill, Intestate Succession Bill, Legal Education Reform Bill, Legal Profession Bill, Notaries Public (Amendment) Bill, Presidential Transition (Amendment) Bill, State Property and Contract (Amendment) Bill, and Tribunals Bill are set to receive Parliament’s attention.

  • 39 people arrested in crackdown on cybercrime networks in Accra

    39 people arrested in crackdown on cybercrime networks in Accra

    A total of thirty-nine (39) individuals have been arrested in Tema Community 25 in Accra in a crackdown on cybercrime networks by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) in a joint operation.

    They were arrested on Thursday, August 21, after an intelligence-led surveillance, according to preliminary reports. The arrested include three minors. Digital devices, including laptops and other materials, are said to have been seized to aid forensic investigation.

    All the arrested individuals are set to be transported to the CID headquarters in Accra for profiling and further questioning. The recent arrest forms part of a national strategy to combat online fraud and financial scams as well as related cyber-enabled crimes.

    Between January and March of this year, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) reported that over GHS4 million was lost to scammers. In a post on their official Facebook page, the CSA highlighted a sharp increase in online fraud cases, with 305 incidents recorded in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 194 cases during the same period last year. The total financial loss has surged from GHS 2,404,161 in 2024 to GHS 4,425,851 in 2025.

    “The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has received 305 cases of online fraud between January and March this year, a significant increase from 194 cases recorded during the same period last year. Similarly, the total financial loss has surged from GHS 2,404,161 recorded last year to GHS 4,425,851 this year,” the CSA stated in its post.

    The authority noted that scammers have been taking advantage of the increased commercial activity during festive seasons such as Eid al-Fitr and Easter. These periods, which see a surge in consumer spending and online shopping, have become prime targets for fraudsters.

    The CSA outlined several common tactics used by scammers to deceive victims. Fraudsters often create fake online stores or impersonate legitimate businesses on social media, offering deeply discounted products and encouraging victims to make payments for items that never arrive. 

    Scammers also create fraudulent business listings on Google Maps or fake profiles, manipulating search engine results. Consumers searching for legitimate businesses are diverted to scammers, who then collect payments for products or services that are never delivered. 

    Additionally, cybercriminals send deceptive emails or messages, often claiming to be from a romantic partner or a company offering festive deals. These messages contain links or attachments that, when clicked, either steal personal data or install harmful malware.

    As online scams continue to rise, the CSA is urging the public to exercise caution, particularly during high-traffic shopping seasons like Eid al-Fitr and Easter. The authority has provided several recommendations to help individuals safeguard themselves. Consumers are advised to be cautious of unsolicited offers; if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. 

    They should avoid clicking on suspicious links or messages offering unbelievable discounts tied to festive seasons. When shopping online, it is important to stick to reputable online stores and thoroughly check reviews before making a purchase. 

    Scammers often manipulate search engine results to mislead consumers, so it is essential to verify business details through official websites or reliable sources before engaging. Consumers should ensure secure payments by only making payments after inspecting the goods, and for mobile payments, ensure the transaction is directed to the official account of the business. 

    Lastly, consumers are advised to protect their personal information by never sharing sensitive personal details, such as Ghana Card numbers or bank account information, with unverified contacts or websites.

    Also, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has recorded an exponential surge in cyberbullying incidents associated with digital lending mobile applications this year. Between January and May, the Authority received 377 reports, marking a sharp increase compared to the 228 cases reported throughout the entire year of 2024.

    The apps that have been identified include Miniloan, Mix Loan, Devtage loan, Ozzy money-cash, Plus Cash Arrow, Fundscredit, Getloan, Kcash, Bestloan, Gcash, Daraloan, Loan Base, Tap Loan, Gh Loans, Sune credit, Urgent Money, Sparkloan, Skyloan, Loancloudgh, Pea Money, Cash Arrow.

    The rest are HastyCredit, Lever credit, Molo credit, Sunloan pro, Nina loan, Upper loan, Wohia loan, Morloan pro, MumuMoney, Credit bag, Lever credit, Get loan, Ozzy credit, Molocredit, Soarcredit, E+money, Taploan, Dream Fund, Swftcredit, RocketLoan Turbo, DEVTAGE Financial, Vinvedo Wealth, Credit well, Newgry, Easy Buy, Sika Sika, WePay.

    According to Bank of Ghana (BoG) Notices BG/GOV/SEC/2022/10 and BG/GOV/SEC/2023/07, these apps violate the provisions of the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930).

    In addition, the owners of the apps have not met the compliance obligations of the Data Protection Commission (DPC), and thus their access and use of the data and PII of users violate the Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843).

    The CSA has therefore advised the public against subscribing to these mobile applications as they are not sanctioned by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Data Protection Commission.  “Individuals who patronise these services do so at their own risk,” the authority warned.

    The modus operandi used by the fraudsters, according to the CSA, begins with an automatic credit of an amount less than GHC200 into the user’s mobile money wallet even without an actual loan request upon the installation of the app.

    A week later, the fraudsters demand loan repayment with high interest rates from the victim or an associate. They then threaten to circulate actual or fabricated nude photos of the victim on social media, as well as label the victim as a thief or a wanted criminal.

    “Even after victims repay, some fraudsters continue to demand additional payments,” the Authority noted.

    This is possible as the victims would have granted these apps access to their data (contacts, photos) and personally identifiable information (PII) such as Ghana card ID, during the installation.

    The public has been urged to report cybercrimes and seek guidance as well as assistance on the CSA’s 24-hour online activities. Call or text -292, WhatsApp 0501603111, or email report@csa.gov.gh.

    The CSA continues to support victims and anyone seeking advice on cybercrimes. They can be contacted through the 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact (PoC) via call/text at 292, WhatsApp at 0501603111, or email at report@icsa.gov.gh. Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and follow these guidelines to avoid falling victim to fraud.

  • Gov’t engaging international bodies on rapid training to produce high-demand health experts for export – Health Minister

    Gov’t engaging international bodies on rapid training to produce high-demand health experts for export – Health Minister

    Minister for Health, Honourable Mintah Akandoh, has revealed that the government is engaging countries interested in importing Ghanaian health workers to implement a short-term intensive course to elevate the average health personnel to become experts.

    Engaging the media, the Health Minister revealed that the collaboration has become necessary due to high demand for health experts by other international countries in need of Ghanaian health workers.

    According to Honourable Mintah Akandoh, the exportation of health workers, what he refers to as the “managed migration” approach, forms part of the two measures being put in place by the Ghanaian government to reduce the number of unemployed health personnel in the country.

    He remarked: “Ghana government is going to engage other countries to export health workers. About 13 countries have responded, and we are now agreeing on our MoUs. But there is a challenge; the challenge is that if you look at the requests from the various countries and even our own (African) countries, the request is higher when it comes to specialists than general nurses.”

    “We cannot decide to give them all our specialists. What we are doing at the moment is that we are engaging them, looking at how we can bring lots of specialists. Instead of taking you probably about 2 years to become a specialist, we are engaging the institutions to come up with a crash programme, not more than six (6) months. It does not mean that we are going to compromise on the quality.

    “It is going to be very intensive. For example, if you were going to do two contact hours a day, you are going to do four or five. We use that approach to solve a particular problem so if we run it for about two to three times and we think the problem has been solved, we return to the former system,” he further explained.

    According to the Minister for Health, the country has not less than 70,000 health professionals sitting at home, unemployed. One of the two approaches to reduce the number of unemployed health workers involves the government increasing its recruitment. 

    “In the 2026 budget, we are looking at the government giving us some clearance to be able to recruit more, and they will spread it across the pharmacists and nurses so that every cadre will be able to get that kind of equitable distribution of recruitment,” Honourable Mintah Akandoh said.

    Young Ghanaians will soon have the opportunity to work abroad under structured, fixed-term arrangements following the launch of the Ghana Labour Export Programme.

    President John Dramani Mahama announced the pending launch while addressing residents in the Ahafo Region on Saturday, May 31, as part of his Thank You Tour.

    The president indicated that his government is in advanced talks with several countries experiencing labour shortages.

    “We will soon launch the Ghana Labour Export Programme. There are labour shortages in many countries across the world. We are negotiating with several of those countries to export some of our professionals to work on fixed-term contracts abroad,” President Mahama stated.

    Domestic job pressures will ease as skilled Ghanaian professionals are engaged in temporary employment roles overseas in various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and hospitality.

    Electricians, welders, mechanics, nurses, chefs, caterers, drivers, warehouse supervisors, and machine operators, are among the workers to benefit from the programme.

    “Young qualified people will be selected fairly from all the 16 regions of our country, including Ahafo,” the president also announced, highlighting equal opportunity for all.

    Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa months ago announced the government of Germany’s willingness to sign a labour mobility agreement with Ghana to allow thousands of youth to be employed abroad under a special bilateral agreement.

    In a statement on Facebook, the minister noted that the agreement, which is currently under discussion, will guarantee “safe, rewarding and dignified employment.”

    “We expect actual implementation soon,” Mr Ablakwa added while remarking on the government’s belief in meaningful and impactful diplomacy.

    The Foreign Minister engaged German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Mr. Joachim Stamp, the Special Representative of the Federal Government for Migration Agreements, and top officials of the German Interior Ministry on the margins of the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial ongoing in Berlin.

    In March this year, the Ministry of Labour, Jobs & Employment, in partnership with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and GIZ Ghana, launched the Work Abroad Programme to address youth unemployment by facilitating access to jobs in various sectors beyond Ghana’s borders.

    The Work Abroad Programme is structured to equip Ghanaian youth with the essential skills, guidance, and support needed to secure overseas employment. Officials at the event highlighted its potential to empower participants with international exposure, enhancing their professional growth while contributing to national development.

    “This initiative is about creating opportunities, building brighter futures, and ensuring that our young people can thrive both locally and internationally,” YEA CEO Malik Basintale stated.

    The launch featured engaging discussions on the programme’s implementation strategy, expected benefits, and long-term sustainability. Collaboration with GIZ Ghana is expected to strengthen the initiative by leveraging global networks and expertise in workforce development.

    In May, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the government of Germany’s willingness to sign a labour mobility agreement with Ghana to allow thousands of youth to be employed abroad under a special bilateral agreement.

    In a statement on Facebook, the minister noted that the agreement, which is currently under discussion, will guarantee “safe, rewarding and dignified employment.”

    “We expect actual implementation soon,” Mr Ablakwa added while remarking on the government’s belief in meaningful and impactful diplomacy.

    The Foreign Minister engaged German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Mr. Joachim Stamp, the Special Representative of the Federal Government for Migration Agreements, and top officials of the German Interior Ministry on the margins of the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial ongoing in Berlin.

    The Foreign Minister has noted that massive job openings in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will soon be announced for the Ghanaian youth when both countries finalize the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations.

    There are discussions ongoing for labour export for Ghanaian youth to the UAE and technical support for a new national airline.

    In April, Minister for Employment and Labor Relations Dr. Rashid Pelpuo made mention of work ongoing between his outfit and the Foreign Ministry to craft a strategy to export skilled Ghanaian labour to countries requiring workers to curb the rising unemployment.

    “Beyond the domestic set, what we can do to tackle unemployment is to look at how we can export Ghanaian labour to places that require our labour force,” he said in an interview on Joy FM.

    He added: “What I am working on is to get the foreign minister to sign bilateral relations with all the countries needing Ghanaian labour, and I will sign agreements with companies that want to export the labour.”

  • Shatta Wale has no documentation to prove he owns 2019 Lamborghini Urus – EOCO

    Shatta Wale has no documentation to prove he owns 2019 Lamborghini Urus – EOCO

    The Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) has revealed that Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, does not have any documentation that shows that he owns or purchased a 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a car identified by the FBI and the US Justice Department as proceeds of a $4 million crime.

    The documentation being referenced is in terms of receipt or transfer documents.

    According to EOCO, he rather has a customs declaration document in his possession bearing the name of Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently in jail.

    The singer has also been unable to identify the person from whom he purchased the car in question.

    He is reported to have said he purchased it from the “Street” and from someone possibly called “ZAK” who may have contacted him on WhatsApp but whose identity he does not know and whose contact he has thrown away.

    The $4 million crime involves Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian who is currently serving a jail term in the USA.

    Shatta Wale was invited by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following a public claim on August 5 that he purchased the car in question at a price of US$150,000 from an unidentified party.

    According to EOCO in a press statement issued on August 21, an invitation was issued to Charles Nii Armah Mensah to report on August 13.

    This was, however, rescheduled for August 20, 2025 at 10am.

    “Counsel for Charles Nii Armah Mensah, indicated to EOCO officers that they would prefer to report at 11am. EOCO readjusted its schedule to align with their time. Shortly before 11am, Counsel for Nii Armah called EOCO to claim that his client was not available and that he was also busy,” a part of the statement noted.

    EOCO indicated to the singer’s Counsel that he and his client were expected to report as scheduled.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah arrived in the Office around 3pm and, according to EOCO, insisted that he was not going to cooperate until his counsel arrived, a right which he is entitled and was accorded him.

    “EOCO investigators and Charles Nii Armah Mensah waited from 11am till 5pm before his Counsel showed up. Incidentally, EOCO’s closing time is 5pm. Nevertheless, EOCO staff and the entire operational team chose to carry on with the interrogation, which ended around 9pm. Officers eventually left the Office around 11pm,” the statement further revealed.

    Shortly after interrogation ended, Shatta Wale was on Wednesday night granted bail of GHC10,000,000 with two sureties to be justified.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah would only leave EOCO’s custody after it undertakes surety inspection, which is a standard protocol.

    Earlier this morning, die-hard fans of Shatta Wale started to mass up at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following the singer’s detention on Wednesday.

    They demanded his immediate release from EOCO detention.

    EOCO’s investigation forms part of a larger investigation regarding possible co-conspirators in the $4m crime which occurred in the US involving some Ghanaians and recoveries of the proceeds of the crime.

    Following requests from the FBI and the US Justice Department of EOCO to track the vehicle and conduct local investigations in respect of uncovering possible co-conspirators in Ghana, EOCO began looking for the vehicle until it was identified and seized in or around May this year in the possession of one Charles Nii Armah Mensah.

    On August 15, 2025, a United States District Court of the Eastern District of Kentucky, Central Division of Lexington in a criminal case of the United States of America vrs. Nana Kwabena Amuah issued an order Forfeiting Substitute Asset on the Lamborghini Urus in question, authorising the US Government to take possession of the said vehicle in Ghana as restitution for the crime.

  • Shatta purchased Lamborghini Urus from the “Street” – EOCO

    Shatta purchased Lamborghini Urus from the “Street” – EOCO

    The Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) has revealed that Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has been unable to identify the person from whom he purchased a 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a car identified by the FBI and the US Justice Department as proceeds of a $4 million crime.

    He is reported to have said he purchased it from the “Street” and from someone possibly called “ZAK” who may have contacted him on WhatsApp but whose identity he does not know and whose contact he has thrown away.

    The $4 million crime involves Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian who is currently serving a jail term in the USA.

    Shatta Wale was invited by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following a public claim on August 5 that he purchased the car in question at a price of US$150,000 from an unidentified party.

    According to EOCO in a press statement issued on August 21, an invitation was issued to Charles Nii Armah Mensah to report on August 13.

    This was, however, rescheduled for August 20, 2025 at 10am.

    “Counsel for Charles Nii Armah Mensah, indicated to EOCO officers that they would prefer to report at 11am. EOCO readjusted its schedule to align with their time. Shortly before 11am, Counsel for Nii Armah called EOCO to claim that his client was not available and that he was also busy,” a part of the statement noted.

    EOCO indicated to the singer’s Counsel that he and his client were expected to report as scheduled.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah arrived in the Office around 3pm and, according to EOCO, insisted that he was not going to cooperate until his counsel arrived, a right which he is entitled and was accorded him.

    “EOCO investigators and Charles Nii Armah Mensah waited from 11am till 5pm before his Counsel showed up. Incidentally, EOCO’s closing time is 5pm. Nevertheless, EOCO staff and the entire operational team chose to carry on with the interrogation which ended around 9pm. Officers eventually left the Office around 11pm,” the statement further revealed.

    Shortly after interrogation ended, Shatta Wale was on Wednesday night granted bail of GHC10,000,000 with two sureties to be justified.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah would only leave EOCO’s custody after it undertakes surety inspection, which is a standard protocol.

    Meanwhile, EOCO has revealed that Charles Nii Armah Mensah does not also possess any documentation in terms of receipt or transfer documents which shows that he owns or purchased the said vehicle except a customs declaration document in his possession bearing the name of Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently in jail.

    Earlier this morning, die-hard fans of Shatta Wale started to mass up at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following the singer’s detention on Wednesday.

    They demanded his immediate release from EOCO detention.

    EOCO’s investigation forms part of a larger investigation regarding possible co-conspirators in the $4m crime which occurred in the US involving some Ghanaians and recoveries of the proceeds of the crime.

    Following requests from the FBI and the US Justice Department of EOCO to track the vehicle and conduct local investigations in respect of uncovering possible co-conspirators in Ghana, EOCO began looking for the vehicle until it was identified and seized in or around May this year in the possession of one Charles Nii Armah Mensah.

    On August 15, 2025, a United States District Court of the Eastern District of Kentucky, Central Division of Lexington in a criminal case of the United States of America vrs. Nana Kwabena Amuah issued an order Forfeiting Substitute Asset on the Lamborghini Urus in question, authorising the US Government to take possession of the said vehicle in Ghana as restitution for the crime.

  • LIVESTREAMING: One-week observation of late Asantehema underway

    LIVESTREAMING: One-week observation of late Asantehema underway

    The one-week observation of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, is taking place.

    The one-week rite will be held at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

    According to Palace officials, Nana Konadu Yiadom III’s one-week observation will follow traditional Asante customs, with chiefs, queen mothers, and government officials.

    Meanwhile, members of the public are expected to attend in mourning attire.

    The 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom, Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, passed away on August 7 at age 98.

  • Shatta Wale granted GHC10m bail with 2 sureties to be justified

    Shatta Wale granted GHC10m bail with 2 sureties to be justified

    Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, was on Wednesday night granted bail of GHC10,000,000 with two sureties to be justified in investigations surrounding a 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a car identified by the FBI and the US Justice Department as proceeds of a $4 million crime.

    The $4 million crime involves Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian who is currently serving a jail term in the USA.

    Shatta Wale was invited by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following a public claim on August 5 that he purchased the car in question at a price of US$150,000 from an unidentified party.

    According to EOCO in a press statement issued on August 21, an invitation was issued to Charles Nii Armah Mensah to report on August 13.

    This was, however, rescheduled for August 20, 2025 at 10am.

    “Counsel for Charles Nii Armah Mensah, indicated to EOCO officers that they would prefer to report at 11am. EOCO readjusted its schedule to align with their time. Shortly before 11am, Counsel for Nii Armah called EOCO to claim that his client was not available and that he was also busy,” a part of the statement noted.

    EOCO indicated to the singer’s Counsel that he and his client were expected to report as scheduled.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah arrived in the Office around 3pm and, according to EOCO, insisted that he was not going to cooperate until his counsel arrived, a right which he is entitled and was accorded him.

    “EOCO investigators and Charles Nii Armah Mensah waited from 11am till 5pm before his Counsel showed up. Incidentally, EOCO’s closing time is 5pm. Nevertheless, EOCO staff and the entire operational team chose to carry on with the interrogation which ended around 9pm. Officers eventually left the Office around 11pm,” the statement further revealed.

    Nii Armah was only granted bail around 9pm shortly after interrogation ended.

    Charles Nii Armah Mensah would only leave EOCO’s custody after it undertakes surety inspection, which is a standard protocol.

    According to EOCO, Charles Nii Armah Mensah has been unable to identify the person from whom he purchased the said Lamborghini Urus vehicle.

    He is reported to have said he purchased it from the “Street” and from someone possibly called “ZAK” who may have contacted him on WhatsApp but whose identity he does not know and whose contact he has thrown away.

    Also, EOCO states that Charles Nii Armah Mensah does not also possess any documentation in terms of receipt or transfer documents which shows that he owns or purchased the said vehicle except a customs declaration document in his possession bearing the name of Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently in jail.

    Earlier this morning, die-hard fans of Shatta Wale started to mass up at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following the singer’s detention on Wednesday.

    They demanded his immediate release from EOCO detention.

    EOCO’s investigation forms part of a larger investigation regarding possible co-conspirators in the $4m crime which occurred in the US involving some Ghanaians and recoveries of the proceeds of the crime.

    Following requests from the FBI and the US Justice Department of EOCO to track the vehicle and conduct local investigations in respect of uncovering possible co-conspirators in Ghana, EOCO began looking for the vehicle until it was identified and seized in or around May this year in the possession of one Charles Nii Armah Mensah.

    On August 15, 2025, a United States District Court of the Eastern District of Kentucky, Central Division of Lexington in a criminal case of the United States of America vrs. Nana Kwabena Amuah issued an order Forfeiting Substitute Asset on the Lamborghini Urus in question, authorising the US Government to take possession of the said vehicle in Ghana as restitution for the crime.

  • One-week observation of the late Asantehemaa to be held today

    One-week observation of the late Asantehemaa to be held today

    The one-week observation of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, has been announced by the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    In the aftermath of the official announcement of the Queen Mother’s demise, Otumfuo made known to the public that Thursday, August 21, 2025, has been scheduled for the ceremony.

    The one-week rite will be held at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

    According to Palace officials, Nana Konadu Yiadom III’s one-week observation will follow traditional Asante customs, with chiefs, queen mothers, and government officials.

    Meanwhile, members of the public are expected to attend in mourning attire.

    The 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom, Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, passed away at age 98.

    Profile of Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III

    Asantehemaa was named Nana Ama Konadu at birth and is also known by all as Nana Panin or Naa Panin. She later became Nana Konadu Yiadom III, after her enstoolment as the 14th Asantehemaa on February 6, 2016.

    She was born in 1927 at Benyaade Shrine at Merdan, a small town located at Kwadaso, Kumasi, in the days of the restoration of the Asante Confederacy.

    She was born to Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, Asantehemaa, who reigned from 1977 to 2016. Her father was known as Opanin Kofi Fofie, known popularly as Koofie or Keewuo, a carpenter by profession from Besease near Atimatim in Kumasi.

    At a very tender age, just when she was a little over a year old and being breastfed, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa, was separated from her biological mother and given to her aunt (mother’s sister), Nana Afia Konadu, at Ashanti New Town (Ash-Town), a suburb of Kumasi.

    Nanahemaa never had any formal education, but she underwent a rigorous and quality informal education, learning a lot of things that were not taught in the classroom.

     She was initiated and underwent puberty rites together with her niece, Nana Abena Ansa, in their early teens. She married Opanin Kwame Boateng, a blacksmith by profession from Aduman in Kumasi.

    She was religious, kindhearted, calm, fair and firm, hardworking, very humble, unassuming, and accommodating. In the mid-1990s, Kwaku Firi Bosomfo, the priest of Kwaku Firi, prophesied through Baffour Akoto, a Senior Linguist of Asantehene, that Nanahemaa would be Queen of Asante someday, and surely, it came to pass.

    Nanahemaa achieved a lot and has been recognized as such. Through her constant generosity in doing God’s work, the Saviour Church named a school after her, Nana Konadu Saviour School. She exhibited a high level of equity, justice, and fairness, and all cases brought before her have been settled amicably to the satisfaction of both parties involved.

    Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, the 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom (deceased)

    In celebrating her 5th Anniversary as Asantehemaa, she made a huge donation to the mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU), Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU) and Pediatric Emergency Unit (PEU) and paid for all the medical bills and expenses for new mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

    Nanahemaa started a vigorous campaign and instituted an annual event to encourage mothers to breastfeed their young ones, the main reason why she made a generous donation to the Mother-Baby Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

  • Protest over deplorable state of Amasaman-Nsawam road called off

    Protest over deplorable state of Amasaman-Nsawam road called off

    The scheduled demonstration by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), and other transport unions to protest against the deplorable state of the Amasaman-Nsawam road has been called off.

    The protest was to come off today, Thursday, August 21, but has been called off following the return of the contractor to the site.

    The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), and other transport unions have withdrawn their planned demonstration over the deplorable state of the Amasaman–Nsawam road.

    In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the unions stated that “We commend the Government of Ghana and the relevant authorities for their timely intervention, which demonstrates a commitment to resolving the pressing challenges that affect both transport operators and commuters.”

    Speaking to the media on Saturday, 17 August, the Union’s National Deputy Public Relations Officer, Samuel Amoah, emphasized that the poor state of the road is costing transport operators heavily through expensive repairs, frequent breakdowns, and increased safety risks.

    He explained that the Union had previously engaged Roads Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza, who requested a six-week grace period, assuring them that the government had already released funds for road repairs.

    The release of the said funds was confirmed by the Controller and Accountant-General, Kwasi Agyei. According to him, as of August 4, the government had settled this payment for the resumption of the work.

    During an interview on Accra-based Peace FM on Monday, August 18, Mr. Agyei explained that the government had fully discharged its financial obligations for the project. He noted that payments were made in three separate batches within thirteen days, starting from late July to early August.

    “We made partial payments on 24th July, followed by another on 30th July, and the final payment was made on 4th August. In total, we have honoured the full amount of GH¢809 million as requested,” he explained.

    Construction works have resumed on the stalled Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project, which is expected to be completed in May 2026.

    Project Manager for the Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project, Ing. Awuku Asare, has expressed pessimism about his outfit being able to complete the road project within nine (9) months.

    Ing. Awuku Asare has indicated that his team is currently confronted with several challenges that may necessitate a request for an extension of the completion deadline.

    Among the difficulties he highlighted, Ing. Awuku Asare explained that completing the interchange alone would likely take about seven months out of the proposed nine-month duration. According to him, by the seventh month, they might not have even “completed the top” of the interchange.

    “Within 2 or 23 weeks, you must be done with the basic maintenance. Yeah, we have up to May 2026 to complete it, and if there are any snags, they will definitely ask for an extension. And I’m telling you one snag—it’s going to take us about 7 months to complete the interchange. But now, if the compensation is done and we are going to count another 3 months up to November, it means we are going to start from November. Then November to May is about 7 months; we wouldn’t have completed the top. Then we… so there will be a basis to ask for any extension if it comes like that…,” he noted.

    Another setback that may delay the completion of the project is the legal tussle with affected persons, some of whom have taken the government to court over their eviction, citing delays in compensation.

    “Talking about this compensation, we have to—there are some individuals who have sent us to court. In fact, they wanted to even put an injunction on the construction works. But we just had a letter from the engineer, who is the Highway Authority, that the court didn’t grant. So we can go ahead and do the demolitions and complete them,” he added.

    He further mentioned that the ongoing relocation of electricity cables, which were found in the right-of-way, remains another challenge that must be resolved before full-scale work can continue.

    “…So that challenge is there. There are also some electricity lines and water lines in the right-of-way. They have all encroached on the right-of-way, and it shouldn’t have happened like that,” he continued.

    In July this year, Parliament unanimously endorsed the government’s proposal to divert all royalties from oil revenues and mineral resources to support the implementation of the Big Push Programme. This decision followed a request by the government for parliamentary approval to commit funds for the construction of specific road projects.

    According to the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance, “The Committee has carefully considered the Referral, and it thinks that the request is in the right direction. The Committee also noted that Parliament had already approved the policy and the allocation to the ‘Big Push’ Programme in the 2025 Budget Statement. Granting the request would enable the Government to enter into multi-year contracts to execute the road infrastructure projects under the Programme.”

    “The Committee accordingly recommends to the House to approve the Request for the multi-year commitments for the selected road projects under the ‘Big Push’ Programme contained in the Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review of the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of the Government of Ghana, under Section 33 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016, (Act 921).”

    The initiative, aimed at improving road infrastructure nationwide, is estimated at GH¢13.8 billion. It is expected to be completed by 2028 with support from the country’s financial resources.

    According to the 2025 budget, the Road Fund owes GH¢5.75 billion, with GH¢2.81 billion allocated for road maintenance. This represents a 155.5% increase from the 2024 allocation of GH¢1.1 billion, underscoring the government’s emphasis on sustaining Ghana’s road network.

    With Ghana’s economy valued at GH¢1.2 trillion, stakeholders are closely monitoring how the government balances infrastructure expansion with financial obligations. Earlier this year, Minister for Roads and Highways Kwame Governs Agbodza revealed that the government would settle GH¢4 billion of the debt owed to road contractors.

    Currently, the government owes road contractors GH¢21 billion, according to the Minister. President John Dramani Mahama has also announced plans to begin paying part of this debt within the month.

    “The Ministry of Finance has made dedicated financial allocations to address a substantial portion of the outstanding debts. We expect this to bring much-needed relief to the contractors and help accelerate the delivery of critical infrastructure,” the President stated.

  • SM fans mass up at EOCO to demand Shatta Wale’s release

    SM fans mass up at EOCO to demand Shatta Wale’s release

    Die-hard fans of Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, have started to mass up at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) following the singer’s detention on Wednesday.

    They are demanding his immediate release from EOCO detention.

    Shatta Wale was detained on Wednesday over an inquiry related to the tax obligations of a yellow Lamborghini vehicle that was seized over a month ago.

    According to the legal counsel of the artiste, Nii Armah presented himself voluntarily at the EOCO offices along with his lawyer, Cephas Biyuo, to assist with investigations.

    His legal team has assured the general public that it is fully engaged and actively working with the authorities to resolve this matter. Shatta Wale’s counsel is expected to visit the EOCO office today.

    Early this month, the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) noted that it will soon invite Shatta Wale and a former senior officer of the National Signal Bureau (NSB), who remains anonymous, after they were assessed as persons of interest following the seizure of a luxurious vehicle tied to the proceeds of the criminal enterprise of one Nana Kwabena Amuah.

    They are to assist in further ongoing investigations in the coming days.

    EOCO in June seized a 2019 Lamborghini Urus used by Shatta Wale after its Surveillance And Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) undertook a lawful search in a home at Trassaco Valley Phase 1, in Accra.

    The search, said to be “professional and civil,” was conducted on a 2023 request from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the United States Justice Department.

    EOCO clarified that “it is a standard safety protocol practice for officers of the Surveillance and Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) to carry weapons whilst on operation for the safety of officers.”

    According to the EOCO, the FBI and the Justice Department have tied the seized vehicle to the proceeds of the criminal enterprise of one Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently serving an 86 month sentence for several financial crimes in the United States of America (USA).

    It is reported that Nii Armah pleaded with officers that he did not want the seizure to be made public because “the vehicle was a big part of his brand, and if his supporters saw the vehicle being driven away in the company of EOCO, it would destroy his brand.”

    In light of this, Nii Armah was allowed to surrender the vehicle himself, which is currently in the possession of the Economic and Organized Crime Office.

    According to EOCO, the FBI and the Justice Department intend to send a formal Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) to the Government of Ghana to return the car to the United States as part of Nana Kwabena Amuah’s $4,743,443 restitution.

    EOCO has noted that it may share the final investigation report with the FBI and the Justice Department “as part of our ongoing cooperation.”

    Per reports, Nana Kwabena Amuah was jailed in October 2023 after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. His actions and those of his co-conspirators resulted in the attempted theft of almost $4 million by defrauding almost 70 public and private organisations and wiring money into bank accounts through a shell company named Gretson Company LLC.

    Twenty-four-year-old Shimea Maret McDonald, who is said to have had over 40 fake identity cards in her possession and helped Amuah move the stolen money and launder it through shell companies, pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. 

    “This crime deprived businesses of their operating funds and caused significant harm to the well-being of the people who own and run those companies,” Prosecutor Kathryn Dieruf stated. 

    “I ask for a second chance, and I promise you will never see me in this courtroom again,” Nana Kwabena Amuah is quoted to have told the judge.

    Judge Karen Caldwell, however, noted that “the crimes he helped commit were incredibly serious.”

    Recently, Shatta Wale was in the news after City of Wisdom’s prophet and counsellor, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh, prophesied the death of the Ghanaian dancehall artiste.

    He shared the video of how he received two visions about the musician’s fate. In the first vision, Shatta Wale was attacked by armed men but managed to escape and later thanked God on social media. In the second vision, the prophet said three gunmen ambushed Shatta Wale and fatally shot him.

    Just a day after the Reverend’s prophecy went viral, Shatta Wale took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, July 23, and said he was traumatised, calling for the arrest of the pastor, which the Ghana Police swiftly responded to and apprehended the pastor on July 26.

    Aside from Shatta Wale’s reaction, social media was thrown into a frenzy over the ‘Gringo’ hitmaker’s death prophecy, drawing police arrest calls from his fans.

    Following this, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh issued a formal apology to the singer.

    In a statement dated July 27, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh acknowledged the need for him to offer an apology for the trauma and panic he has caused Shatta Wale following the doom prophecy he gave in a video shared on his official Facebook page on Tuesday, July 22.

    “I, Counsellor D Y DONKOH, find it right to address the recent prophecy I shared concerning Ghanaian music icon Shatta Wale. The prophecy, which was delivered on all my social media platforms, has since sparked widespread concern, and I find it necessary to offer an apology on the matter,” parts of the statement read.

    In May this year, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) met with Ghanaian musician Shatta Wale, who is the CEO of SHAXI – a ride-hailing platform set up in 2021—for a youth employment partnership.

    This strategic partnership with SHAXI will create thousands of jobs for Ghanaian youth who remain unemployed or seek better job opportunities.

    As part of this collaboration, YEA will support the first 2,000 vehicles that subscribe to the SHAXI platform with GHC500 worth of fuel coupons every month for six months.

    “This bold move is designed to ease the operational cost for drivers and encourage more youth participation in the transport business,” YEA noted.

    SHAXI vehicles that operate on a 24-hour basis will receive additional incentives. This ensures that at least two young people can be employed per vehicle, working in shifts, and maximizing both income and job creation potential.

    YEA noted that “this is a true game-changer in public-private collaboration where innovation and star power are used to drive real impact in youth employment!”

    On his part, Shatta Wale noted that he is open to making more investments in the tech industry to provide more jobs to the youth.

    This is not the first initiative being taken by YEA; in April this year, the agency entered a one-year agreement with SoccaBet Ghana to create 500 job placements.

    Also, the agency, in partnership with the Ghana Fire Service, will recruit 5,000 young Ghanaians as fire assistants across the country.

    The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and the Ghana Police Service have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to recruit 12,000 young individuals across the country to serve as Community Police Assistants (CPAs).

    Speaking at the signing ceremony on Monday, May 19, at the Ministry of Interior, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of YEA, Malik Basintale, noted that the government’s priority is not solely about creating job opportunities but “involving our youth in building safer communities.”

    “We are here today because we have found some 12,000 jobs within the Ghana Police Service. Every day and anytime I wake up, the first thing that comes to mind is where I can find jobs for young people out there.

    “His Excellency the President is always willing to hear the number of jobs that have been found and delivered to young people. Today, we have found 12,000 more jobs for young people out there, and we are ready to exhibit in the coming days,” he added.

  • 8 suspects involved in Ablekuma North by-election violence to be arraigned today

    8 suspects involved in Ablekuma North by-election violence to be arraigned today

    The eight individuals recently arrested for their involvement in the Ablekuma North by-election violence will be put before the Court of Law today.

    Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who confirmed the arrest of 8 suspects on Wednesday, made this known. The IGP made this disclosure during a meeting between the Police leadership and executives of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).

    “As of yesterday, I got 8 suspects. Eight suspects have been arrested, they are being processed, and from the advice I had from the regional commander, it means that tomorrow they will put them before court. Either tomorrow or Friday, all these suspects will be put before court,” Mr Yohuno explained.

    Mr Tetteh Yohuno also clarified that the police officer who assaulted a journalist during the Ablekuma North rerun had not been transferred, contrary to rumours, but was interdicted.

    “Within the shortest possible time, we withdrew this policeman, and also what we did was that we had to interdict him. When you are interdicted, your uniform is taken away from you, you cannot go back to work. And there is a rumour going around that we have transferred the policeman from where he is to another police station, which is never true,” he stated.

    He said investigations into the officer’s conduct had been completed by the Police Professional Standards Bureau.

    “That investigation has been completed and handed over to me. So it means that a service enquiry is going to be conducted into his conduct and then the appropriate sanction will follow,” he explained.

    He further revealed that disciplinary action will soon be taken. “Just yesterday I received a report from the professional standard who said that we can go ahead and constitute a disciplinary action through our service orders against the police officer,” the IGP said.

    In a statement issued by Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs, the police said they are analyzing multiple videos from the July 11 poll to identify all individuals involved in the violent incidents that marred the election.

    “In line with due process, the Police Officer captured in one of the videos, assaulting a journalist who was interdicted, has been held for criminal charges of assault.” the statement indicated.

    It adds that statements have been taken from complainants and witnesses, and victims have been issued Police Medical Report Forms as part of ongoing investigations.

    The Command noted that it has gathered vital leads and assured the public that arrests will follow soon.

    The police also emphasized their commitment to holding accountable anyone found culpable of violence, intimidation, or electoral misconduct. They encouraged the public to share credible information via emergency lines 18555 or 191.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) on Friday, July 11, held a rerun election in 19 polling stations of the Ablekuma North to provide its constituents a representative after the 2024 parliamentary elections.

    Ewurabena Aubynn polled 34,090 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Akua Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes.

    Ablekuma North remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote after the 2024 polls.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    The Electoral Commission (EC), after extensive deliberations, in July noted that it will hold the rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after it met with the representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.

    Violence mars Ablekuma North rerun election

    At the Odorkor Methodist 1 polling station in the Ablekuma North constituency, some individuals engaged in a fisticuff with the police personnel. Also, a JoyNews journalist was slapped by an unknown individual.

    Former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and Member of Parliament for Ewutu Senya East Constituency, Hawa Koomson, was also assaulted by a group of men. A journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, was also slapped by a police officer.

    The Ghana Police Service has interdicted one of its officers who was caught on camera slapping a journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, during the rerun election at Ablekuma North.

    In line with internal disciplinary procedures, he has been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation.

    The officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North.

    The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter and further updates will be communicated.

    It is unknown what exactly transpired between the reporter and a group of police officers that led to him being slapped.

    The police officer’s action has been condemned by all, including the mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who witnessed the unfortunate incident.

    Deputy Minister for Government Communications, Shamima Muslim, in reaction to the said incident, commended the police for its swift action to reprimand its officer for such unlawful acts and condemned the recent attacks against civilians and journalists during the Ablekuma North election rerun.

    “What we are happy about is the swift action that the Ghana Police itself has taken in interdicting the officer in question,” she said.
    “It is completely unwarranted. Government itself takes a very serious stance, especially on security agencies meting out unwarranted attacks to civilians under any circumstances,” she added.

    President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) Albert  Kwabena  Dwumfuor also condemned the attack on journalists. Due to the chaos that erupted, Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno visited some polling stations in the constituency.

    The Minority in Parliament has also condemned the violence that took place during the just-ended Ablekuma North rerun election, accusing members of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of instigating violent activities.

    In a statement signed by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the caucus said:

    “The most disturbing aspect of today’s violence is not just the brutality itself, but the deliberate endorsement and celebration of these attacks by senior government officials. For example, Dr.
    Hanna Louisa Bissiw, National Women’s Organiser of the NDC and CEO of the Minerals Development Fund, provided perhaps the most damaging response with her statement that “violence begets violence” and her suggestion that the brutal attacks were somehow justified.”

    “Even more shocking is the Facebook post by Malik Basintale, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and Deputy National Communications Officer of the NDC,
    who apparently celebrated the man who attacked Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson with the disturbing declaration, “From today, I name him the Flying Python. He shall be in charge of the 5k Airforce!” This grotesque celebration of violence against a former Member of Parliament represents a new low in Ghana’s political discourse,” the statement added.

    The Minority has registered its displeasure with the operation of the Ghana Police Service at the polling stations.

    “The Ghana Police Service’s response raises serious questions about their preparedness and commitment to protecting our electoral process. Security personnel were overwhelmed by the
    perpetrators, failing to prevent these attacks on political figures, party agents, and journalists. More concerning are allegations surrounding Chief Superintendent Lumor Frederick Senanu and his potential role in facilitating these disruptions.”

    The caucus stressed the need for increased protection for voters, electoral officers, journalists, and candidates. It also called on the international community, civil society, and media to monitor developments closely.

  • EOCO detains Shatta Wale for tax obligations over seized Lamborghini

    EOCO detains Shatta Wale for tax obligations over seized Lamborghini

    Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has been detained by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO).

    He was detained on Wednesday over an inquiry related to the tax obligations of a yellow Lamborghini vehicle that was seized over a month ago.

    According to the legal counsel of the artiste, Nii Armah presented himself voluntarily at the EOCO offices along with his lawyer, Cephas Biyuo, to assist with investigations.

    His legal team has assured the general public that it is fully engaged and actively working with the authorities to resolve this matter. Shatta Wale’s counsel is expected to visit the EOCO office today.

    Early this month, the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) noted that it will soon invite Shatta Wale and a former senior officer of the National Signal Bureau (NSB), who remains anonymous, after they were assessed as persons of interest following the seizure of a luxurious vehicle tied to the proceeds of the criminal enterprise of one Nana Kwabena Amuah.

    They are to assist in further ongoing investigations in the coming days.

    EOCO in June seized a 2019 Lamborghini Urus used by Shatta Wale after its Surveillance And Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) undertook a lawful search in a home at Trassaco Valley Phase 1, in Accra.

    The search, said to be “professional and civil,” was conducted on a 2023 request from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the United States Justice Department.

    EOCO clarified that “it is a standard safety protocol practice for officers of the Surveillance and Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) to carry weapons whilst on operation for the safety of officers.”

    According to the EOCO, the FBI and the Justice Department have tied the seized vehicle to the proceeds of the criminal enterprise of one Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is currently serving an 86 month sentence for several financial crimes in the United States of America (USA).

    It is reported that Nii Armah pleaded with officers that he did not want the seizure to be made public because “the vehicle was a big part of his brand, and if his supporters saw the vehicle being driven away in the company of EOCO, it would destroy his brand.”

    In light of this, Nii Armah was allowed to surrender the vehicle himself, which is currently in the possession of the Economic and Organized Crime Office.

    According to EOCO, the FBI and the Justice Department intend to send a formal Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) to the Government of Ghana to return the car to the United States as part of Nana Kwabena Amuah’s $4,743,443 restitution.

    EOCO has noted that it may share the final investigation report with the FBI and the Justice Department “as part of our ongoing cooperation.”

    Per reports, Nana Kwabena Amuah was jailed in October 2023 after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. His actions and those of his co-conspirators resulted in the attempted theft of almost $4 million by defrauding almost 70 public and private organisations and wiring money into bank accounts through a shell company named Gretson Company LLC.

    Twenty-four-year-old Shimea Maret McDonald, who is said to have had over 40 fake identity cards in her possession and helped Amuah move the stolen money and launder it through shell companies, pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. 

    “This crime deprived businesses of their operating funds and caused significant harm to the well-being of the people who own and run those companies,” Prosecutor Kathryn Dieruf stated. 

    “I ask for a second chance, and I promise you will never see me in this courtroom again,” Nana Kwabena Amuah is quoted to have told the judge.

    Judge Karen Caldwell, however, noted that “the crimes he helped commit were incredibly serious.”

    Recently, Shatta Wale was in the news after City of Wisdom’s prophet and counsellor, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh, prophesied the death of the Ghanaian dancehall artiste.

    He shared the video of how he received two visions about the musician’s fate. In the first vision, Shatta Wale was attacked by armed men but managed to escape and later thanked God on social media. In the second vision, the prophet said three gunmen ambushed Shatta Wale and fatally shot him.

    Just a day after the Reverend’s prophecy went viral, Shatta Wale took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, July 23, and said he was traumatised, calling for the arrest of the pastor, which the Ghana Police swiftly responded to and apprehended the pastor on July 26.

    Aside from Shatta Wale’s reaction, social media was thrown into a frenzy over the ‘Gringo’ hitmaker’s death prophecy, drawing police arrest calls from his fans.

    Following this, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh issued a formal apology to the singer.

    In a statement dated July 27, Counsellor D.Y. Donkoh acknowledged the need for him to offer an apology for the trauma and panic he has caused Shatta Wale following the doom prophecy he gave in a video shared on his official Facebook page on Tuesday, July 22.

    “I, Counsellor D Y DONKOH, find it right to address the recent prophecy I shared concerning Ghanaian music icon Shatta Wale. The prophecy, which was delivered on all my social media platforms, has since sparked widespread concern, and I find it necessary to offer an apology on the matter,” parts of the statement read.

    In May this year, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) met with Ghanaian musician Shatta Wale, who is the CEO of SHAXI – a ride-hailing platform set up in 2021—for a youth employment partnership.

    This strategic partnership with SHAXI will create thousands of jobs for Ghanaian youth who remain unemployed or seek better job opportunities.

    As part of this collaboration, YEA will support the first 2,000 vehicles that subscribe to the SHAXI platform with GHC500 worth of fuel coupons every month for six months.

    “This bold move is designed to ease the operational cost for drivers and encourage more youth participation in the transport business,” YEA noted.

    SHAXI vehicles that operate on a 24-hour basis will receive additional incentives. This ensures that at least two young people can be employed per vehicle, working in shifts, and maximizing both income and job creation potential.

    YEA noted that “this is a true game-changer in public-private collaboration where innovation and star power are used to drive real impact in youth employment!”

    On his part, Shatta Wale noted that he is open to making more investments in the tech industry to provide more jobs to the youth.

    This is not the first initiative being taken by YEA; in April this year, the agency entered a one-year agreement with SoccaBet Ghana to create 500 job placements.

    Also, the agency, in partnership with the Ghana Fire Service, will recruit 5,000 young Ghanaians as fire assistants across the country.

    The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and the Ghana Police Service have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to recruit 12,000 young individuals across the country to serve as Community Police Assistants (CPAs).

    Speaking at the signing ceremony on Monday, May 19, at the Ministry of Interior, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of YEA, Malik Basintale, noted that the government’s priority is not solely about creating job opportunities but “involving our youth in building safer communities.”

    “We are here today because we have found some 12,000 jobs within the Ghana Police Service. Every day and anytime I wake up, the first thing that comes to mind is where I can find jobs for young people out there.

    “His Excellency the President is always willing to hear the number of jobs that have been found and delivered to young people. Today, we have found 12,000 more jobs for young people out there, and we are ready to exhibit in the coming days,” he added.

  • IGP engages stakeholders ahead of Akwatia by-election

    IGP engages stakeholders ahead of Akwatia by-election

    Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), on Tuesday, August 19, engaged various stakeholders ahead of the upcoming Akwatia by-election to discuss security arrangements to ensure peace, law, and order before, during, and after the polls.

    The meeting provided a platform for the Police Service to share security arrangements for the election with the political parties and also note their concerns from the service.

    The political party representatives expressed their appreciation for the engagement and among other things, called for fairness and transparency in security deployment to build trust in the process.

    The Ghana Police Service has noted that it will continue to engage stakeholders as we firm up operational preparations to ensure security law and order before, during, and after the election.

    IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno cautioned the political parties participating in the by-election against marching men to the polling stations to distrupt the electoral process.

    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he explained.

    “What I told them is that we are going in with Black Marias. Black Maria is the prison on wheels. We have a truck that is well prepared to keep people who cause trouble. We keep them in, and then finally, we discharge them at the police cells,” he added.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election will begin today, Wednesday, August 20.

    On Monday, August 4, the Electoral Commission conducted balloting to ensure fairness in the order in which candidates appear on the ballot paper.

    The two major political parties are preparing vigorously for the contest. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in Akwatia, Eastern Region, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2.

    This follows an internal election conducted by the party on Monday, August 4, to select a representative for the by-election. The competition was between former Member of Parliament Henry Boakye, the current NDC Akwatia Constituency Secretary Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and Erasmus Koney Ali.

    Bernard Bediako Baidoo polled 380 votes, Erasmus Ali Korney secured 366 votes, and Yiadom garnered 232 votes. On the other hand, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the upcoming by-election.

    According to the Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Jeff Konadu Addo, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders.

    He explained, “The National Council of the party set up a committee and we were tasked to find out who could be our candidate or whether we will do primaries or not.

    “So, the team went to Akwatia in the constituency, had a lot of engagement with the grassroots, electoral area coordinators, polling station officers, chiefs, opinion leaders, and the majority of the people said that for primaries, we should take it out. We shouldn’t conduct primaries in Akwatia. And that’s exactly what we followed.”

    Earlier, reports suggested that the widow of the late Member of Parliament, Mrs. Mavis Kumi, had expressed interest in contesting the seat. However, the Eastern Regional NPP Chairman, Jeff Konadu Addo, on Tuesday, July 15, dismissed such reports, emphasizing that campaign flyers making such claims were false.

    “We wish to categorically state that this information is false, misleading, and should be treated with the utmost contempt it deserves,” Jeff Konadu Addo said.

    He further clarified that Mrs. Mavis Kumi had no interest in contesting the position but was focused on mourning her husband.

    “She has unequivocally communicated that she has no interest in contesting the seat or participating in active politics at this time. Her current focus is to mourn her husband with dignity and in peace,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka, has urged security personnel who will be deployed to oversee the by-election in the Akwatia constituency to remain vigilant while carrying out their duties.

    He reminded them to reflect on the recent violence that occurred during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency and to work proactively to prevent a recurrence.

    According to him, the government will ensure that such incidents are not repeated in future elections. The minister made these remarks at the government’s accountability series in Accra on Monday, July 14.

    “This is also a wake-up call for our security agencies to know that probably what happened [in Ablekuma North]…gives our security agencies the opportunity to even plan better towards Akwatia.

    “All I can assure the people of Akwatia is that we will use Ablekuma North as a case study to review how we operate in Akwatia—to make sure that the citizens are free to cast their votes and express their will without fear or favour,” Muntaka added.

    On 12th August 2025, the IGP and his team held a meeting with the Electoral Commission (EC) to discuss the broader roadmap for the polls. The discussions centered on coordination between the Police and the EC to ensure smooth operations before, during, and after the election. The EC also outlined its operational roadmap for the conduct of the by-election.

    Similarly, on 13th August 2025, the Police engaged the Institute of Democratic Governance (IDEG) at the National Police Headquarters. At the meeting, IDEG highlighted concerns related to electoral security, transparency, and the role of stakeholders in sustaining public confidence in the process.

  • “I don’t do it for Oscars, I really don’t care about that kind of stuff” – Denzel Washington

    “I don’t do it for Oscars, I really don’t care about that kind of stuff” – Denzel Washington

    American actor, producer and director, Denzel Hayes Washington Jr, has noted that his work in Hollywood is not backed by a desire to obtain awards, particularly the Oscars.

    According to the 70-year-old actor, his motivation has always gone beyond accolades, although he is a two-time Academy Award winner with decades of celebrated performances. 

    Speaking with Jake Hamilton of Jake’s Takes, Washington emphasized that while he respects the recognition, the Oscars are far from his ultimate goal.

    “I don’t do it for Oscars, I really don’t care about that kind of stuff. I’ve been at this a long time, and there are times where I won, shouldn’t have won, and times where I didn’t win and should have. Man gives the awards, God gives the rewards. I’m not that interested in Oscars,” he said.

    Denzel is currently promoting his upcoming A24 drama Highest 2 Lowest, which reunites him with longtime collaborator Spike Lee.

    “People ask, ‘Where do you keep it? I say, ‘Next to the other one. I’m not bragging, I’m just telling you how I feel about it. On my last day, awards aren’t going to do me a bit of good,” he added.

    This is not the first time Washington has brushed off award season chatter. Earlier this year, he reacted to being left out of the Oscar race for Gladiator II with similar calm, saying his focus was on his stage work in Othello rather than industry politics.

    Washington has also encouraged fellow actors to keep the same perspective. When Colman Domingo received back-to-back nominations, Washington reminded him that the work matters more than the recognition.

    Washington won his first Oscar in 1990 for Best Supporting Actor in Glory and made history in 2002 as only the second Black man to win Best Actor, for Training Day. Over the years, he has earned seven more nominations for roles in films such as Malcolm X, Fences and Cry Freedom. Yet, his perspective remains grounded.

    While awards may not be his priority, the veteran actor continues to take on major projects. In addition to Highest 2 Lowest, which premieres in theaters on August 15 as part of the 2025 movie lineup, he is set to appear in Black Panther 3 and several other productions.

    Academy history and structure


    With a global membership of more than 10,500 of the most accomplished film industry artists and leaders, an acclaimed film museum, the expansive Academy Collection, and world-renowned awards for cinematic achievements, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the home of an expertise and reach that is unparalleled.

    The Academy recognizes and celebrates all aspects of the film industry and the diverse, talented people who make movies. The Academy inspires young artists and creates opportunities for underrepresented communities to engage with the film world; preserves our film history; curates vital and thoughtful programs and initiatives about cinema’s past, present and future; and connects global audiences through their shared love of cinema.

    The Academy was founded in May 1927 as a nonprofit corporation by 36 members including production executives and film luminaries of the time. Today, the Academy campus in the Los Angeles area includes the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, a headquarters building at 8949 Wilshire Boulevard, and the Margaret Herrick Library and Academy Film Archive, which house components of the Academy Collection.

    Membership in the Academy is by invitation of the 55-person Board of Governors, the governing body of the Academy, and is limited to those who have distinguished themselves in the motion picture industry. The criteria for admittance include a body of work in motion pictures that reflects the high standards of the Academy, an achievement of unique distinction, or making an outstanding contribution to the motion picture arts or sciences.

    Members representing the many professional areas within the motion picture industry are organized into 19 branches – Actors, Animation, Casting Directors, Cinematographers, Costume Designers, Directors, Documentary, Executives, Film Editors, Makeup Artists and Hairstylists, Marketing and Public Relations, Music, Producers, Production and Technology, Production Design, Short Films, Sound, Visual Effects and Writers.

    Janet Yang was re-elected as president of the Board of Governors in August 2024. The Board of Governors also appoints a chief executive officer to supervise the administrative activities of the Academy. CEO Bill Kramer and a staff of more than 700 currently conduct the Academy’s day-to-day business.

    Being a member

    Academy membership is limited to film artists working in the production of theatrically-released motion pictures. The Academy has 19 branches, for the crafts ranging from Actors to Writers, and the Artist Representatives category, for individuals who work in motion pictures as a representative.

    The Academy’s membership process is by sponsorship, not application. Candidates must be sponsored by two Academy members from the branch to which the candidate seeks admission.

    Additionally, Academy Award nominees are automatically considered for membership and do not require sponsors.

    Nominees and sponsored candidates are reviewed by branch committees and recommendations for membership are considered by the Academy’s Board of Governors. The Board decides which individuals will receive invitations.

    Membership Review takes place annually in the spring. The current cycle deadline to sponsor a candidate is Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

    Sponsoring a candidate for membership in the Academy is a serious commitment. Please make sure you are confident the candidate has truly “demonstrated exceptional achievement in the field of theatrical motion pictures” before you agree to sponsor an individual.

    It is important to be familiar with the admission criteria of your branch (or category, if you are sponsoring someone as an Artist Representative. Click here for branch and category requirements. 

    Please note:

    • Candidates for branch membership must be sponsored by members of the branch in question.  Artist Representatives candidates must be sponsored by at least one Artist Representatives member, with a 2nd sponsor from any branch.  Artist Representatives may only sponsor Artist Representatives.

    A candidate for membership must be sponsored by two members of the branch for which the individual qualifies. One sponsor should initiate the sponsorship process on the Academy member site. Please review your branch’s requirements before submitting a candidate for consideration.

    After the two sponsors have completed the online process, the proposed candidate will receive an email requesting additional information. Once completed, the Member Relations and Awards Department will be in touch if any additional information is required.

    Membership reviews take place once a year, in the spring. 

    Each candidate who receives a favorable endorsement from the appropriate Branch Executive Committee will be submitted to the Board of Governors for final approval and invitation to membership.

  • Culture of reading will contribute to Ghana’s long-term intellectual and developmental progress – Youth Minister

    Culture of reading will contribute to Ghana’s long-term intellectual and developmental progress – Youth Minister

    Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, Hon. George Opare Addo, has indicated that Ghana’s long-term intellectual and developmental progress can only be nurtured by a culture of reading that needs to be instilled in citizens, particularly the youth.

    The minister made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the 22nd Ghana International Book Fair on Wednesday, August 20 at the National Theatre in Accra.

    The theme for event was “Inclusive Publishing: Celebrating Accessible Literature,” which according to Hon. George Opare Addo “seeks to advance by promoting the vital agenda of leaving no one behind on our shared journey of learning and discovery.”

    “Ladies and gentlemen, the theme of this year’s Fair reminds us of the importance of inclusivity in publishing and the imperative of making literature accessible to all. It affirms that by nurturing a culture of reading, we enrich individual lives and contribute to Ghana’s long-term intellectual and developmental progress,” he added.

    Honourable George Opare Addo highlighted the importance of reading as a key to unlocking potential, potential for all young Ghanaians, including young men, women, and persons with disabilities.

    “Today’s youth stand uniquely positioned to draw from the wisdom of those who came before them, and books remain one of the most powerful means through which they can live, learn, and grow from the experiences of others. In this era where digital reading formats are increasingly popular among our young people, it is vital that, as a nation, we remain committed to embedding accessibility features across both print and digital platforms, while actively nurturing a vibrant reading culture,” he further remarked.

    He revealed the efforts put in by the incumbent government to aid literacy in schools and encourage the integration of Ghanaian-authored texts.

    “Government’s dedication to this cause is clear. This resolve is further demonstrated by the decisive allocation of GHS 564 million to end the long-standing no-textbook phenomenon, ensuring the local production and distribution of textbooks for basic schools so that every student has the materials required for learning,” he said.

    The sector minister intimated that the government is keen on shaping a generation of readers who are confident in their identity and values.

    Honourable George Opare Addo acknowledged the vital contributions of civil society and community initiatives, which complement the government’s efforts.

    “By fostering supportive reading environments, producing relevant learning materials, and reaching underserved communities, they help deepen the culture of reading across our nation. Their work, alongside national initiatives, reflects the collective responsibility required to secure Ghana’s literacy and intellectual advancement,” he stated.

    He thus commended all partners, organisations, and the organisers of the distinguished Ghana International Book Fair for their unwavering commitment to promoting reading, accessibility, and inclusivity.

    “Your efforts not only complement government policy but also inspire a collective sense of purpose in building a literate, confident, and empowered society,” he concluded.

    In May this year, the Ghana National Gas Company handed over a Reading Room and other essential support systems to the Takoradi Technical University for students with disabilities.

    The previous government in 2024 held a National Reading Festival in Accra to foster a culture of reading to improve literacy. The festival was organised by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Ghana Eudcation Service (GES), the Ghana Library Authority (GLA) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

    Two years ago, former Education Minister Dr Osei Adutwum stated that a 2022 study conducted by the National Standardized Test revealed that 62 percent of Primary-2 students could not read.

    He noted that this situation was even worse in 2015 when only 2 percent of Primary-2 students could read.

    While the latest test results showed that 38 percent of students could read, Dr. Adutwum expressed dissatisfaction with the remaining 62 percent who still struggled to read.

    “In a test conducted in 2015, only 2% of Primary-2 students could read in this country. Thereafter, in 2022, the President invested resources and was able to access every Primary-2 student in the country on the National Standardized test.

    “The test result which is out has revealed that 38% of the students can read, but I’m not happy about it [because] it also said 62% can’t read and we can’t be happy with that,” he noted.

    “We have to begin to raise a new generation of education leaders who will be interested in learning outcomes and who will lead the charge to ensure that Ghana’s fortunes will change.

    “We cannot depend on this apprenticeship leadership any longer…we have to fast-track the Wesley Girls’ experience so we can get more effective school leadership and this is where the National Education Leadership Institute comes in.

    “The apprenticeship would be there but people will also have to study and understand what makes schools work in Ghana,” he emphasized.

    About five months ago, President John Mahama announced a deal for the local printing industry to print all textbooks for basic schools across the country locally. This led to government allocating GHS 564 million for the initiative.

    In March this year, prior to the presentation of the 2025 national budget, President John Dramani Mahama made mention of uncapping the Ghana Educa­tion Trust Fund to aid government’s efforts to develop the education sector.

    True to its word, the Mahama-led government removed expenditure restrictions on the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), and the Road Fund to strengthen financing for critical sectors, including education, healthcare, and road infrastructure.

    Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced this policy shift while presenting the 2025 Budget Statement to Parliament on Tuesday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to improving essential public services.

    Dr. Forson highlighted a significant boost in funding for the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme, with GH¢3.5 billion allocated in the 2025 budget.

    “Mr. Speaker, this year, the budget for the free secondary education programme is GH¢3.5 billion. By uncapping the GETFund, we will be making available an additional GH¢4.1 billion to the GETFund,” he disclosed.

    The government aims to assess the state of Ghana’s education system and introduce evidence-based reforms, prompting a call for a National Education Conference.

  • “Our eyes are red for Akwatia” – IGP says after deploying officers

    “Our eyes are red for Akwatia” – IGP says after deploying officers

    Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has noted that his outfit will stay alert and avert any form of misconduct and electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election slated for Tuesday, September 2.

    Engaging the media, the IGP noted that his officers are up to the task.

    “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police is ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia. We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation and then our eyes are red for Akwatia and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.

    IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno cautioned the political parties participating in the by-election against marching men to the polling stations to distrupt the electoral process.

    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he explained.

    “What I told them is that we are going in with Black Marias. Black Maria is the prison on wheels. We have a truck that is well prepared to keep people who cause trouble. We keep them in, and then finally, we discharge them at the police cells,” he added.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election will begin today, Wednesday, August 20.

    This was disclosed at a meeting convened by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) with political representatives to discuss security measures and strategies to curb electoral violence. The Commission’s Director of Electoral Services, Benjamin Bano-Bioh, told the media that, “as of now (August 19), we are going to start the printing of ballots from tomorrow (which is today).”

    “Procurement has already been done. We have procured all the materials required for the election, so we are already,” he stated. Benjamin Bano-Bioh further explained that his outfit is “poised to deliver on our mandate in a professional way. We call on political parties to play by the rules,” he added.

    Earlier, the Inspector-General of Police briefed political parties, outlining critical security arrangements for the election.

    Following the death of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, the by-election has been scheduled to elect his successor.

    On Monday, August 4, the Electoral Commission conducted balloting to ensure fairness in the order in which candidates appear on the ballot paper.

    The two major political parties are preparing vigorously for the contest. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in Akwatia, Eastern Region, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2.

    This follows an internal election conducted by the party on Monday, August 4, to select a representative for the by-election. The competition was between former Member of Parliament Henry Boakye, the current NDC Akwatia Constituency Secretary Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and Erasmus Koney Ali.

    Bernard Bediako Baidoo polled 380 votes, Erasmus Ali Korney secured 366 votes, and Yiadom garnered 232 votes. On the other hand, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the upcoming by-election.

    According to the Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Jeff Konadu Addo, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders.

    He explained, “The National Council of the party set up a committee and we were tasked to find out who could be our candidate or whether we will do primaries or not.

    “So, the team went to Akwatia in the constituency, had a lot of engagement with the grassroots, electoral area coordinators, polling station officers, chiefs, opinion leaders, and the majority of the people said that for primaries, we should take it out. We shouldn’t conduct primaries in Akwatia. And that’s exactly what we followed.”

    Earlier, reports suggested that the widow of the late Member of Parliament, Mrs. Mavis Kumi, had expressed interest in contesting the seat. However, the Eastern Regional NPP Chairman, Jeff Konadu Addo, on Tuesday, July 15, dismissed such reports, emphasizing that campaign flyers making such claims were false.

    “We wish to categorically state that this information is false, misleading, and should be treated with the utmost contempt it deserves,” Jeff Konadu Addo said.

    He further clarified that Mrs. Mavis Kumi had no interest in contesting the position but was focused on mourning her husband.

    “She has unequivocally communicated that she has no interest in contesting the seat or participating in active politics at this time. Her current focus is to mourn her husband with dignity and in peace,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka, has urged security personnel who will be deployed to oversee the by-election in the Akwatia constituency to remain vigilant while carrying out their duties.

    He reminded them to reflect on the recent violence that occurred during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency and to work proactively to prevent a recurrence.

    According to him, the government will ensure that such incidents are not repeated in future elections. The minister made these remarks at the government’s accountability series in Accra on Monday, July 14.

    “This is also a wake-up call for our security agencies to know that probably what happened [in Ablekuma North]…gives our security agencies the opportunity to even plan better towards Akwatia.

    “All I can assure the people of Akwatia is that we will use Ablekuma North as a case study to review how we operate in Akwatia—to make sure that the citizens are free to cast their votes and express their will without fear or favour,” Muntaka added.

  • U.S. rejection of IMO’s net-zero framework: Implications for Ghana and developing maritime states

    U.S. rejection of IMO’s net-zero framework: Implications for Ghana and developing maritime states

    On August 12, 2025, the United States government formally rejected the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net-Zero Framework, a landmark proposal aimed at steering the global shipping industry toward full decarbonization by mid-century.

    The U.S. position, which framed the framework as a “global carbon tax on Americans,” was accompanied by a warning of possible retaliatory measures against states that support the initiative.

    This development has injected fresh uncertainty into the IMO process and raised profound questions for developing maritime nations, particularly countries like Ghana whose economic lifelines are tightly bound to international shipping.

    Shipping accounts for nearly 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and the IMO has long been under pressure to align its regulatory regime with the Paris Agreement’s climate objectives.

    The Net-Zero Framework was intended to provide a binding pathway, combining emission reduction targets, market-based measures, and a proposed Net-Zero Fund to support capacity building in developing states.

    While the European Union, small Island developing states, and climate-vulnerable nations have welcomed the framework, Washington’s rejection represents more than policy divergence.

    It signifies a fracture in global maritime governance, with the potential to stall momentum on collective action.

    Implications for Developing States Like Ghana

    First of all, the U.S. has suggested that it may impose economic countermeasures on countries supporting the framework. For Ghana, whose seaborne trade with the U.S. includes cocoa, oil, and manufactured goods, such retaliation could manifest as tariffs, shipping restrictions, or regulatory hurdles.

    This would have direct consequences for Ghanaian exporters and port operators.

    In addition, the Net-Zero Framework envisaged a financial mechanism to assist developing countries in upgrading ports, modernizing fleets, and adopting low-emission technologies. U.S. opposition threatens the viability of this fund, delaying Ghana’s ability to secure financing for critical maritime infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives.

    Ghana now faces a strategic dilemma. Full alignment with the framework risks straining bilateral relations with Washington, while outright opposition would undermine Ghana’s credibility as a responsible IMO member committed to sustainability.

    The challenge is to navigate this tension without sacrificing either national interests or international reputation.

    What Ghana Should Do

    Firstly, Ghana must pursue Balanced Diplomacy. Ghana should maintain its support for global decarbonization, but frame its position in terms of equity and developmental fairness.

    By advocating for “common but differentiated responsibilities,” Ghana can highlight its commitment to climate action while recognizing its limited capacity as a developing nation.

    Secondly, through the African Union and African Group at IMO, Ghana can push for collective bargaining power. Regional solidarity ensures that no single African state bears the brunt of external pressure and helps amplify calls for climate finance and transitional support.

    Furthermore, rather than adopting a confrontational posture, Ghana should engage U.S.  counterparts through its diplomatic missions, clarifying that its support for the framework is consistent with global sustainability objectives.

    Bilateral maritime dialogues could help soften U.S. concerns and avoid Ghana being targeted by punitive measures.

    Another important point is that Ghana must leverage its Multilateral Channels by continuing to work with neutral and technical bodies within the IMO, such as the Marine Environment Protection Committee, to emphasize the practical benefits of decarbonization—improved port competitiveness, reduced fuel costs, and resilience to climate impacts.

    Conclusion

    The U.S. rejection of the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework signals a turbulent phase in the governance of global shipping. For Ghana and other developing maritime states, the challenge is not only environmental but also diplomatic and economic.

    Ghana’s path forward lies in strategic balancing: reaffirming its commitment to sustainable shipping, safeguarding trade relations, and securing a fair share of climate finance.

    By adopting a proactive, pragmatic, and diplomatic approach, Ghana can ensure it remains a credible voice at the IMO while protecting its vital national interests.

    Writer: Evans Ago Tetteh, Ph.D., Lecturer, Regional Maritime University and Regent, Kpone Sebrepor.

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

  • Ghana’s economy will be upgraded again in next review – President Mahama optimistic

    Ghana’s economy will be upgraded again in next review – President Mahama optimistic

    President John Dramani Mahama has expressed optimism about Ghana’s economy receiving another upgrade by credit rating agencies in the next review.

    Speaking at the Ghana Presidential Investment Forum on the sidelines of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IX) on Wednesday, August 20, he pointed to the cedi’s strong performance, disinflation and signs of sustained progress acknowledged by Fitch Rating.

    “For those of you who know the history of the Ghanaian cedi, it’s been one of the most volatile currencies in Africa, and a few years back, we were said to be the worst-performing currency. I’m happy to announce that this year, the Ghana cedi has been the best-performing currency in the world.

    Inflation rose to a high of almost 23% in 2024 and it’s currently down to 13.7% and we expect that by the end of the year to hit single digit. We’ve been upgraded from junk status to B minus with a stable outlook, and I’m certain that in the next review, we’re going to be upgraded again,” he said.

    Fitch in June this year, upgraded Ghana’s Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) from ‘Restricted Default’ to ‘B-’ with a Stable Outlook.

    Fitch credited the upgrade to the country’s successful restructuring of $13.1 billion in Eurobond debt, steady fiscal consolidation, and the country’s improving macroeconomic outlook.

    The agency also highlighted falling inflation, a strengthening cedi, and a rebound in investor confidence as key indicators of Ghana’s economic turnaround.

    The Fitch report also forecasts real GDP growth of 4% in 2025, supported by a recovery in agriculture, expansion in industry, and strong performance in the services sector.

    Ghana’s economic reform efforts have received a major boost with Fitch’s rating—an assertion confirmed by President John Dramani Mahama and Finance Minister Dr Casiel Ato Forson.

    According to the Finance Ministry, the upgrade is an endorsement of the decisive fiscal and debt management measures led by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson described the upgrade as a significant milestone and a vote of confidence in Ghana’s future.

    President Mahama called on Japanese businesses to invest in the many untapped sectors in the Ghanaian economy at a time when the economy is recording an impressive recovery.

    Highlighting incentives to be benefited by investors, the Ghanaian president shared that investors can export their goods and services to about 50 African nations that have agreed to duty-free trade.

    “So far, almost 50 African countries have signed agreements that allow us to export duty-free, tariff-free into each other’s markets. And once you register your product and it meets all the standards, you can export duty-free and tariff-free into each other’s markets,” he remarked.

    For President John Dramani Mahama, Japanese investors could focus their attention on the automobile manufacturing sector, the agricultural sector, and the recreational sector, as well as the textile sector, to name a few.

    “Japan has a comparative advantage when it comes to automobile manufacturing. Using the opportunity to be able to export into not only our sub-region, but also into Africa, Ghana becomes a good place for the local assembly of automotive products.”

    “Already, we have Japanese companies that are based in Ghana and assembling for the local market and also for exporting to the sub-region. We have millions of hectares of land that border that huge lake, and the water can be used to bring about 2 million hectares of land under irrigation.”

    “But also we intend to establish industrial parks, so that we can process agri products. We can invest in textile manufacture for export into the EU markets, into the American market and other places,” he said.

    According to President Mahama, the technological sector should be harnessed to aid the digital economy. He spoke highly of the Ghanaian youth and their potential to grow the digital economy.

    “Ghana has a very young population, English-speaking, and they’re very smart, and quick to upskill in any areas, robotics, AI, fintechs. The FinTech sector is one of the fastest growing in Ghana than in any other African country.”

    “Africa is the next frontier for investment. Most parts of the world are saturated when it comes to investment. Africa is opening up, growing, and is a place that Japan should be looking at. And so let us marry Japanese position with Ghanaian potential and create a win-win situation for ourselves,” President Mahama told investors.

    President John Mahama is in Japan for the three-day 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), scheduled for August 20–22, 2025, in Yokohama. The conference is co-hosted by the Government of Japan, the United Nations, UNDP, the World Bank, and the African Union Commission.

    The president touched down in Tokyo aboard Emirates flight EK 318, where he was received by officials of Ghana’s Embassy in Japan and representatives of the host government. According to the Presidency, the visit is “aimed at deepening bilateral relations, expanding trade and investment links, and advancing cooperation on shared development priorities.”

    After concluding his engagements in Japan, President Mahama will proceed to Singapore for a three-day visit focused on strengthening investment ties and engaging with Singaporean leaders and business magnates.

    “Following his engagements in Japan, the President will undertake a three-day state visit to Singapore. The state visit will include a courtesy call on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a meeting with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, participation in the Africa-Singapore Business Forum, and an address at an investment forum to present Ghana’s reform and investment priorities and strengthen private-sector linkages between Ghana and Singapore-based investors.”

    According to the Presidency, these visits are intended to “attract investment, broaden market access for Ghanaian goods and services, mobilize technical and development cooperation, and bolster partnerships in technology, infrastructure, finance, and human capital development.”

    Meanwhile, the Presidency has denied allegations of extravagant travel expenditure leveled against President John Mahama by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Old-Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, over the former’s recent official trips to Japan and Singapore.

    On Sunday, August 17, the Presidency announced in an official statement issued by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP), that President John Mahama had resumed formal official duties with visits to Japan and Singapore. The president and his entourage had already departed for Japan.

    Following the announcement, the Old-Tafo MP, in a Facebook post, alleged that the president had hired a private jet, which would cost the taxpayer an estimated $15,000 per hour.

    “This private jet, M-BAEP, left Accra this morning around 7 a.m. It is estimated to cost $15,000 per hour to rent this flight. A simple calculation shows that the 7-hour journey already covered amounts to $105,000. If the flight proceeds to Japan, which is likely to take about 12 hours, that would be another $180,000.

    “If it then continues to Singapore, approximately 7 hours away, that would add another $105,000. Finally, if the jet flies directly to Germany and then back to Accra, a total of about 20 hours return trip, that would add another $300,000. Altogether, the cost comes to an incredible $690,000 without including waiting times and/or stopovers,” he alleged.

    In response, the Government Communications Minister dismissed the claims, describing them as “a mediocre attempt at propaganda.” He clarified that the president traveled to Japan on a commercial flight, Emirates, and not on a private jet.

    “Well, um, clearly the MP in question is dabbling in a mediocre attempt at propaganda. He does not have any facts. He is just wasting everybody’s time with that force. President Mahama has not travelled by private jet; the President travelled to Japan via Emirates, and it is something that you can check. It is not a secret or anything. So anybody who tells you otherwise is simply false,” Felix Kwakye Ofosu stated in an interview on Citi Eyewitness News on Monday, August 18.

    On the MP’s claims that the president left the country around 7 a.m., Mr. Kwakye Ofosu argued that the allegations were baseless, noting that the president was present at the Thanksgiving service of the late former Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, held at the Christ the King Catholic Church in Accra on Sunday, August 17, 2025.

    “Yesterday, I’m sure your station covered the Thanksgiving service for Dr Edward Omane, who was buried over the weekend. You saw that as of 10 a.m., the President was at that service. He left the place sometime around midday. Yesterday, this MP claimed that this flight, in quotes, left at 7:30 a.m. So how did the President emerge at the Thanksgiving service three clear hours after this MP claimed that the jet he was supposedly travelling in had taken off? So it is a complete waste of everybody’s time. It’s a symbolic effort at propaganda which has badly backfired,” he fumed.

    Acknowledging the importance of parliamentary oversight, Mr. Kwakye criticized the MP for peddling “claims that have no factual basis and that do not make any kind of sense.”

    “You see, parliamentary oversight is an extremely serious activity. It is engaged in by the most meticulous and serious minds we have in parliament. It is not the place for anybody to get up and purport to be doing parliamentary scrutiny only to end up wasting everybody’s time…” he added.

    Another allegation raised by Mr. Assafuah, which the Presidency denied, concerned the possibility that the purported private jet might have met the president elsewhere on his trip, or that his entourage—whose travel details he has persistently demanded—were the ones aboard.

    During an appearance on JoyNews, Mr. Assafuah stated: “I’m not interested in the president; I’m interested in the president and the delegation. Because in their (sic) statement, they mentioned that the president was travelling with a delegation.

    “Why are you singling out the president? Is it the case that the jet is meeting the president, or, if you like, some other people, somewhere? That is why the president, probably, if what they are alleging is the case, used a commercial airline which we don’t even know. If what they are saying is true, the president did not use the aircraft that I’m talking about, it does not mean that the president will not use it during (sic) his trip.”

    Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, however, firmly rejected this claim. “Nobody, nobody, nobody has flown. Indeed, if you read the post, the MP does not even say that the jet went to Japan. Why would the delegation go to Japan and then go to Germany? Nobody has sat on any private jet to go anywhere as part of this delegation going to Japan. The President himself has flown commercial. Why would anybody travel on a private jet as a member of this delegation? It’s a completely baseless claim that should be dismissed.”

    He continued, questioning the MP’s line of inquiry: “Is it this government’s policy that the President will not travel by private jet when there are commercial flights? Is that the position? Or what is the position?”

  • President Mahama woos Japanese investors

    President Mahama woos Japanese investors

    President John Dramani Mahama has called on Japanese businesses to invest in the many untapped sectors in the Ghanaian economy at a time when the economy is recording an impressive recovery.

    Speaking at the Ghana Presidential Investment Forum on the sidelines of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IX) on Wednesday, August 20, the president revealed the current gains by the local tender, the Ghana cedi, against major trading currencies. He also touched on Ghana’s current ranking, which saw an improvement as a result of the growing economy.

    “For those of you who know the history of the Ghanaian cedi, it’s been one of the most volatile currencies in Africa, and a few years back, we were said to be the worst-performing currency. I’m happy to announce that this year, the Ghana cedi has been the best-performing currency in the world.

    Inflation rose to a high of almost 23% in 2024 and it’s currently down to 13.7% and we expect that by the end of the year to hit single digit. We’ve been upgraded from junk status to B minus with a stable outlook, and I’m certain that in the next review, we’re going to be upgraded again,” he said.

    Highlighting incentives to be benefited by investors, the Ghanaian president shared that investors can export their goods and services to about 50 African nations that have agreed to duty-free trade.

    “So far, almost 50 African countries have signed agreements that allow us to export duty-free, tariff-free into each other’s markets. And once you register your product and it meets all the standards, you can export duty-free and tariff-free into each other’s markets,” he remarked.

    For President John Dramani Mahama, Japanese investors could focus their attention on the automobile manufacturing sector, the agricultural sector, and the recreational sector, as well as the textile sector, to name a few.

    “Japan has a comparative advantage when it comes to automobile manufacturing. Using the opportunity to be able to export into not only our sub-region, but also into Africa, Ghana becomes a good place for the local assembly of automotive products.”

    “Already, we have Japanese companies that are based in Ghana and assembling for the local market and also for exporting to the sub-region. We have millions of hectares of land that border that huge lake, and the water can be used to bring about 2 million hectares of land under irrigation.”

    “But also we intend to establish industrial parks, so that we can process agri products. We can invest in textile manufacture for export into the EU markets, into the American market and other places,” he said.

    According to President Mahama, the technological sector should be harnessed to aid the digital economy. He spoke highly of the Ghanaian youth and their potential to grow the digital economy.

    “Ghana has a very young population, English-speaking, and they’re very smart, and quick to upskill in any areas, robotics, AI, fintechs. The FinTech sector is one of the fastest growing in Ghana than in any other African country.”

    “Africa is the next frontier for investment. Most parts of the world are saturated when it comes to investment. Africa is opening up, growing, and is a place that Japan should be looking at. And so let us marry Japanese position with Ghanaian potential and create a win-win situation for ourselves,” President Mahama told investors.

    President John Mahama is in Japan for the three-day 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), scheduled for August 20–22, 2025, in Yokohama. The conference is co-hosted by the Government of Japan, the United Nations, UNDP, the World Bank, and the African Union Commission.

    The president touched down in Tokyo aboard Emirates flight EK 318, where he was received by officials of Ghana’s Embassy in Japan and representatives of the host government. According to the Presidency, the visit is “aimed at deepening bilateral relations, expanding trade and investment links, and advancing cooperation on shared development priorities.”

    After concluding his engagements in Japan, President Mahama will proceed to Singapore for a three-day visit focused on strengthening investment ties and engaging with Singaporean leaders and business magnates.

    “Following his engagements in Japan, the President will undertake a three-day state visit to Singapore. The state visit will include a courtesy call on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a meeting with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, participation in the Africa-Singapore Business Forum, and an address at an investment forum to present Ghana’s reform and investment priorities and strengthen private-sector linkages between Ghana and Singapore-based investors.”

    According to the Presidency, these visits are intended to “attract investment, broaden market access for Ghanaian goods and services, mobilize technical and development cooperation, and bolster partnerships in technology, infrastructure, finance, and human capital development.”

    Meanwhile, the Presidency has denied allegations of extravagant travel expenditure leveled against President John Mahama by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Old-Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, over the former’s recent official trips to Japan and Singapore.

    On Sunday, August 17, the Presidency announced in an official statement issued by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP), that President John Mahama had resumed formal official duties with visits to Japan and Singapore. The president and his entourage had already departed for Japan.

    Following the announcement, the Old-Tafo MP, in a Facebook post, alleged that the president had hired a private jet, which would cost the taxpayer an estimated $15,000 per hour.

    “This private jet, M-BAEP, left Accra this morning around 7 a.m. It is estimated to cost $15,000 per hour to rent this flight. A simple calculation shows that the 7-hour journey already covered amounts to $105,000. If the flight proceeds to Japan, which is likely to take about 12 hours, that would be another $180,000.

    “If it then continues to Singapore, approximately 7 hours away, that would add another $105,000. Finally, if the jet flies directly to Germany and then back to Accra, a total of about 20 hours return trip, that would add another $300,000. Altogether, the cost comes to an incredible $690,000 without including waiting times and/or stopovers,” he alleged.

    In response, the Government Communications Minister dismissed the claims, describing them as “a mediocre attempt at propaganda.” He clarified that the president traveled to Japan on a commercial flight, Emirates, and not on a private jet.

    “Well, um, clearly the MP in question is dabbling in a mediocre attempt at propaganda. He does not have any facts. He is just wasting everybody’s time with that force. President Mahama has not travelled by private jet; the President travelled to Japan via Emirates, and it is something that you can check. It is not a secret or anything. So anybody who tells you otherwise is simply false,” Felix Kwakye Ofosu stated in an interview on Citi Eyewitness News on Monday, August 18.

    On the MP’s claims that the president left the country around 7 a.m., Mr. Kwakye Ofosu argued that the allegations were baseless, noting that the president was present at the Thanksgiving service of the late former Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, held at the Christ the King Catholic Church in Accra on Sunday, August 17, 2025.

    “Yesterday, I’m sure your station covered the Thanksgiving service for Dr Edward Omane, who was buried over the weekend. You saw that as of 10 a.m., the President was at that service. He left the place sometime around midday. Yesterday, this MP claimed that this flight, in quotes, left at 7:30 a.m. So how did the President emerge at the Thanksgiving service three clear hours after this MP claimed that the jet he was supposedly travelling in had taken off? So it is a complete waste of everybody’s time. It’s a symbolic effort at propaganda which has badly backfired,” he fumed.

    Acknowledging the importance of parliamentary oversight, Mr. Kwakye criticized the MP for peddling “claims that have no factual basis and that do not make any kind of sense.”

    “You see, parliamentary oversight is an extremely serious activity. It is engaged in by the most meticulous and serious minds we have in parliament. It is not the place for anybody to get up and purport to be doing parliamentary scrutiny only to end up wasting everybody’s time…” he added.

    Another allegation raised by Mr. Assafuah, which the Presidency denied, concerned the possibility that the purported private jet might have met the president elsewhere on his trip, or that his entourage—whose travel details he has persistently demanded—were the ones aboard.

    During an appearance on JoyNews, Mr. Assafuah stated: “I’m not interested in the president; I’m interested in the president and the delegation. Because in their (sic) statement, they mentioned that the president was travelling with a delegation.

    “Why are you singling out the president? Is it the case that the jet is meeting the president, or, if you like, some other people, somewhere? That is why the president, probably, if what they are alleging is the case, used a commercial airline which we don’t even know. If what they are saying is true, the president did not use the aircraft that I’m talking about, it does not mean that the president will not use it during (sic) his trip.”

    Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, however, firmly rejected this claim. “Nobody, nobody, nobody has flown. Indeed, if you read the post, the MP does not even say that the jet went to Japan. Why would the delegation go to Japan and then go to Germany? Nobody has sat on any private jet to go anywhere as part of this delegation going to Japan. The President himself has flown commercial. Why would anybody travel on a private jet as a member of this delegation? It’s a completely baseless claim that should be dismissed.”

    He continued, questioning the MP’s line of inquiry: “Is it this government’s policy that the President will not travel by private jet when there are commercial flights? Is that the position? Or what is the position?”

  • Picking of nomination forms for Tamale Central by-election opened, to end on Sept 10

    Picking of nomination forms for Tamale Central by-election opened, to end on Sept 10

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has opened the filing of nomination forms for the Tamale Central by-election to be conducted on September 30.

    Interested applicants have from now until September 10 to do so.They are to pick up nomination forms via the website www.ec.gov.gh. Filing fee for applicants is GHC10,000. For female candidates and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the nomination form is going for GHC7,500.

    These forms are to be submitted to the EC’s Tamale Metropolitan Office from September 8 to 10, from 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm daily.

    The criteria for applicants include providing a nomination form proposed and seconded by two registered voters in the constituency and assented to by eighteen others. Nomination forms must be delivered personally by candidates or have them delivered by a proposer or seconder. The forms must be submitted in four copies. Candidates are to provide two recent bust-sized photographs against a red background.

    The pending election follows the death of its legislator, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. He was among the eight individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 6. He was laid to rest on August 10.

    On Monday, August 11, the New Patriotic Party declared its intention not to participate in a by-election in the area. According to a statement signed by NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the decision was taken by the Party at a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Party Headquarters pursuant to Article 10(10)(1) of the Party Constitution.

    According to the statement, this will be the party’s better way of honoring Dr. Murtala Mohammed and the other crash victims.

    “In arriving at the decision, the Party considered many factors, including the circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant and the possibility of a further polarization of the country at this critical time.

    The NPP is of the belief that it would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to a competitive processes in search of a replacement for the departed MP. The Party believes that the tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided.

    It is the considered view of the Party that the greatest tribute that the NPP and the rest of the nation can pay in honour of the departed, is not only to win the fight against Galamsey but also to ensure a smooth and peaceful replacement for the good people of Tamale Central.

    Consequently, the NPP hereby announces that when the Electoral Commission of Ghana opens nominations for the Tamale Central by-election in line with Article 112 (5) of Ghana’s Constitution, the Party will, in accord with the national interest, not take part in the contest,” a part of the statement read.

    Earlier, Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, urged members of the National Democratic Congress to exercise restraint from discussing and announcing their intentions to contest the Tamale Central seat.

    He shared the words of caution while lauding the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) decision not to contest in the Tamale Central by-election.

    “I beg our party members not to rush into contesting the Tamale Central constituency. Let’s stay calm and not disrupt the funeral rites of our fallen heroes. The party will meet after the funeral and set timelines to get a replacement for the late Murtala Mohammed,” he said.

    Speaking at the final funeral rites of the late Dr. Murtala Mohammed at his family house in Tamale on Tuesday, August 12, Asiedu Nketia described the NPP’s move as one that demonstrates political maturity. 

    “We thank our brothers in the NPP for declaring that they won’t contest us in Tamale Central,” he said.

    Preparations toward Akwatia by-election

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election will begin today, Wednesday, August 20.

    This was disclosed at a meeting convened by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) with political representatives to discuss security measures and strategies to curb electoral violence. The Commission’s Director of Electoral Services, Benjamin Bano-Bioh, told the media that, “as of now (August 19), we are going to start the printing of ballots from tomorrow (which is today).”

    “Procurement has already been done. We have procured all the materials required for the election, so we are already,” he stated. Benjamin Bano-Bioh further explained that his outfit is “poised to deliver on our mandate in a professional way. We call on political parties to play by the rules,” he added.

    The Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, also briefed political parties, outlining critical security arrangements for the election.

    Following the death of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, the by-election has been scheduled to elect his successor. The Electoral Commission (EC) is expected to hold the by-election in the Akwatia Constituency of the Eastern Region on Tuesday, September 2.

    The election became necessary after the death of the constituency’s representative, Ernest Yaw Kumi, who was reported dead on Monday, July 7. On Monday, August 4, the Electoral Commission will conduct balloting to ensure fairness in the order in which candidates appear on the ballot paper.

    The two major political parties are preparing vigorously for the contest. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in Akwatia, Eastern Region, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2.

    This follows an internal election conducted by the party on Monday, August 4, to select a representative for the by-election. The competition was between former Member of Parliament Henry Boakye, the current NDC Akwatia Constituency Secretary Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and Erasmus Koney Ali.

    Bernard Bediako Baidoo polled 380 votes, Erasmus Ali Korney secured 366 votes, and Yiadom garnered 232 votes. On the other hand, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the upcoming by-election.

    According to the Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Jeff Konadu Addo, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders.

    He explained, “The National Council of the party set up a committee and we were tasked to find out who could be our candidate or whether we will do primaries or not.

    “So, the team went to Akwatia in the constituency, had a lot of engagement with the grassroots, electoral area coordinators, polling station officers, chiefs, opinion leaders, and the majority of the people said that for primaries, we should take it out. We shouldn’t conduct primaries in Akwatia. And that’s exactly what we followed.”

    Earlier, reports suggested that the widow of the late Member of Parliament, Mrs. Mavis Kumi, had expressed interest in contesting the seat. However, the Eastern Regional NPP Chairman, Jeff Konadu Addo, on Tuesday, July 15, dismissed such reports, emphasizing that campaign flyers making such claims were false.

    “We wish to categorically state that this information is false, misleading, and should be treated with the utmost contempt it deserves,” Jeff Konadu Addo said.

    He further clarified that Mrs. Mavis Kumi had no interest in contesting the position but was focused on mourning her husband.

    “She has unequivocally communicated that she has no interest in contesting the seat or participating in active politics at this time. Her current focus is to mourn her husband with dignity and in peace,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka, has urged security personnel who will be deployed to oversee the by-election in the Akwatia constituency to remain vigilant while carrying out their duties.

    He reminded them to reflect on the recent violence that occurred during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency and to work proactively to prevent a recurrence.

    According to him, the government will ensure that such incidents are not repeated in future elections. The minister made these remarks at the government’s accountability series in Accra on Monday, July 14.

    “This is also a wake-up call for our security agencies to know that probably what happened [in Ablekuma North]…gives our security agencies the opportunity to even plan better towards Akwatia.

    “All I can assure the people of Akwatia is that we will use Ablekuma North as a case study to review how we operate in Akwatia—to make sure that the citizens are free to cast their votes and express their will without fear or favour,” Muntaka added.

  • Tamale Central by-election slated for September 30

    Tamale Central by-election slated for September 30

    The Tamale Central by-election will be conducted on September 30, the Electoral Commission (EC) has announced.

    This follows the death of its legislator, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. He was among the eight individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 6. He was laid to rest on August 10.

    Individuals interested are entreated to pick up nomination forms via the website www.ec.gov.gh. They have from now until September 10 to do so. Filing fee for applicants is GHC10,000. For female candidates and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the nomination form is going for GHC7,500.

    These forms are to be submitted to the EC’s Tamale Metropolitan Office from September 8 to 10, from 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm daily.

    The criteria for applicants include providing a nomination form proposed and seconded by two registered voters in the constituency and assented to by eighteen others. Nomination forms must be delivered personally by candidates or have them delivered by a proposer or seconder. The forms must be submitted in four copies. Candidates are to provide two recent bust-sized photographs against a red background.

    On Monday, August 11, the New Patriotic Party declared its intention not to participate in a by-election in the area. According to a statement signed by NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the decision was taken by the Party at a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Party Headquarters pursuant to Article 10(10)(1) of the Party Constitution.

    According to the statement, this will be the party’s better way of honoring Dr. Murtala Mohammed and the other crash victims.

    “In arriving at the decision, the Party considered many factors, including the circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant and the possibility of a further polarization of the country at this critical time.

    The NPP is of the belief that it would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to a competitive processes in search of a replacement for the departed MP. The Party believes that the tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided.

    It is the considered view of the Party that the greatest tribute that the NPP and the rest of the nation can pay in honour of the departed, is not only to win the fight against Galamsey but also to ensure a smooth and peaceful replacement for the good people of Tamale Central.

    Consequently, the NPP hereby announces that when the Electoral Commission of Ghana opens nominations for the Tamale Central by-election in line with Article 112 (5) of Ghana’s Constitution, the Party will, in accord with the national interest, not take part in the contest,” a part of the statement read.

    Earlier, Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, urged members of the National Democratic Congress to exercise restraint from discussing and announcing their intentions to contest the Tamale Central seat.

    He shared the words of caution while lauding the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) decision not to contest in the Tamale Central by-election.

    “I beg our party members not to rush into contesting the Tamale Central constituency. Let’s stay calm and not disrupt the funeral rites of our fallen heroes. The party will meet after the funeral and set timelines to get a replacement for the late Murtala Mohammed,” he said.

    Speaking at the final funeral rites of the late Dr. Murtala Mohammed at his family house in Tamale on Tuesday, August 12, Asiedu Nketia described the NPP’s move as one that demonstrates political maturity. 

    “We thank our brothers in the NPP for declaring that they won’t contest us in Tamale Central,” he said.

    Preparations toward Akwatia by-election

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the printing of ballot papers for the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election will begin today, Wednesday, August 20.

    This was disclosed at a meeting convened by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) with political representatives to discuss security measures and strategies to curb electoral violence. The Commission’s Director of Electoral Services, Benjamin Bano-Bioh, told the media that, “as of now (August 19), we are going to start the printing of ballots from tomorrow (which is today).”

    “Procurement has already been done. We have procured all the materials required for the election, so we are already,” he stated. Benjamin Bano-Bioh further explained that his outfit is “poised to deliver on our mandate in a professional way. We call on political parties to play by the rules,” he added.

    The Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, also briefed political parties, outlining critical security arrangements for the election.

    Following the death of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, the by-election has been scheduled to elect his successor. The Electoral Commission (EC) is expected to hold the by-election in the Akwatia Constituency of the Eastern Region on Tuesday, September 2.

    The election became necessary after the death of the constituency’s representative, Ernest Yaw Kumi, who was reported dead on Monday, July 7. On Monday, August 4, the Electoral Commission will conduct balloting to ensure fairness in the order in which candidates appear on the ballot paper.

    The two major political parties are preparing vigorously for the contest. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in Akwatia, Eastern Region, scheduled for Tuesday, September 2.

    This follows an internal election conducted by the party on Monday, August 4, to select a representative for the by-election. The competition was between former Member of Parliament Henry Boakye, the current NDC Akwatia Constituency Secretary Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and Erasmus Koney Ali.

    Bernard Bediako Baidoo polled 380 votes, Erasmus Ali Korney secured 366 votes, and Yiadom garnered 232 votes. On the other hand, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the upcoming by-election.

    According to the Eastern Regional Chairman of the NPP, Jeff Konadu Addo, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders.

    He explained, “The National Council of the party set up a committee and we were tasked to find out who could be our candidate or whether we will do primaries or not.

    “So, the team went to Akwatia in the constituency, had a lot of engagement with the grassroots, electoral area coordinators, polling station officers, chiefs, opinion leaders, and the majority of the people said that for primaries, we should take it out. We shouldn’t conduct primaries in Akwatia. And that’s exactly what we followed.”

    Earlier, reports suggested that the widow of the late Member of Parliament, Mrs. Mavis Kumi, had expressed interest in contesting the seat. However, the Eastern Regional NPP Chairman, Jeff Konadu Addo, on Tuesday, July 15, dismissed such reports, emphasizing that campaign flyers making such claims were false.

    “We wish to categorically state that this information is false, misleading, and should be treated with the utmost contempt it deserves,” Jeff Konadu Addo said.

    He further clarified that Mrs. Mavis Kumi had no interest in contesting the position but was focused on mourning her husband.

    “She has unequivocally communicated that she has no interest in contesting the seat or participating in active politics at this time. Her current focus is to mourn her husband with dignity and in peace,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka, has urged security personnel who will be deployed to oversee the by-election in the Akwatia constituency to remain vigilant while carrying out their duties.

    He reminded them to reflect on the recent violence that occurred during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency and to work proactively to prevent a recurrence.

    According to him, the government will ensure that such incidents are not repeated in future elections. The minister made these remarks at the government’s accountability series in Accra on Monday, July 14.

    “This is also a wake-up call for our security agencies to know that probably what happened [in Ablekuma North]…gives our security agencies the opportunity to even plan better towards Akwatia.

    “All I can assure the people of Akwatia is that we will use Ablekuma North as a case study to review how we operate in Akwatia—to make sure that the citizens are free to cast their votes and express their will without fear or favour,” Muntaka added.

  • Sean Kingston sentenced to three and a half years in million-dollar fraud scheme

    Sean Kingston sentenced to three and a half years in million-dollar fraud scheme

    American singer and rapper, Kisean Paul Anderson, known professionally as Sean Kingston, will be spending three and a half years in federal prison for his involvement in a million-dollar fraud scheme.

    Along with his mother, the “Beautiful Girls” singer was convicted earlier this year in the scheme where they stole items including a bulletproof Cadillac Escalade, 232-inch LED TV and furniture said to be worth over $1 million (£738,000.)

    In May, the 34-year-old was apprehended in California and was booked into Florida’s Broward County jail after waiving his right to challenge the extradition.

    Ten criminal charges were listed against him by the judge, which included fraud, grand theft, and criminal use of personal identification during a bond hearing.

    The same day he was arrested, the police raided his home in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and apprehended his 61-year-old mother, Janice Turner.

    At the time of his arrest, Kingston was on probation for trafficking stolen property. According to the Prosecutors, Kingston and his mother leveraged the rapper’s status to get products and send fake wire receipts during the period for payment.

    Federal prosecutors said Kingston reached out to victims on social media, saying he wanted to purchase luxury goods and then invited them to his various homes in South Florida.

    Kingston promised these victims to post their products on his social media and sometimes offered to refer their products to other “high profile celebrities”, federal prosecutors said.

    Authorities said most victims were never paid, though several did receive payment after law enforcement got involved or lawsuits were filed.

    A key piece of evidence shown at trial were text messages between Kingston and his mother discussing the fake payment receipts, according to CBS, the BBC’s news partner.

    “I told you to make [a] fake receipt,” he wrote in one.

    Kingston’s attorney Zeljka Bozanic said the singer was “a soft guy who grew up poor when he rose to fame overnight”. He said Kingston still had the mentality of a teenager and didn’t know how to run his bank accounts or business.

    In court today, August 16, it is reported that Kingston apologised before the court provided its ruling. His mother, Janice Turner, was sentenced in July to five years in prison.

    Kingston will begin serving his time immediately. U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Rafael Barros of the U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Miami Field Office, and Sheriff Gregory Tony of the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) made the announcement.

    USSS Miami and BSO investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marc Anton and Trevor Jones prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-60126.

    About Kingston

    Kisean Paul Anderson (born February 3, 1990), known professionally as Sean Kingston, is an American singer and songwriter.

    He signed with J. R. Rotem’s label Beluga Heights Records to release his 2007 debut single, “Beautiful Girls”, which peaked atop the Billboard Hot 100.

    Preceded by the song, his eponymous debut studio album (2007) peaked at number six on the Billboard 200, and spawned the top 40-single “Take You There”.

    His second album, Tomorrow (2009), was supported by the top five-single “Fire Burning”, and met with moderate commercial response. He subsequently released his top twenty duet “Eenie Meenie” with Justin Bieber.

    His third album, Back to Life (2013), failed to chart and served as his final release on a major label, but spawned the moderate hit single “Beat It” (featuring Chris Brown and Wiz Khalifa).

    After his second album, Kingston launched the record label Time Is Money Entertainment, through which he signed then-unknown Canadian rapper Tory Lanez in 2010. 

  • ‘Death and the King’s Horseman’ directed by George Quaye to hit National Theatre last week in August

    ‘Death and the King’s Horseman’ directed by George Quaye to hit National Theatre last week in August

    The last week in August brings joy and excitement to all theatre lovers as Ghanaian actor, media personality, entertainer, and communications professional George Quaye directs one of the most loved and controversial African plays, “Death and the King’s Horseman,” authored by Nigeria’s Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka.

    On August 23, 24, 30 and 31, the stage production will commence at 4pm and 8pm each day. Tickets are going for GHC200 (standard) and GHC300 (VIP). To purchase a ticket, one can visit  www.imagebureaugh.com, dial *714*46#, or call 0551313134.

    The National Theatre, Image Bureau, and April Communications are collaborating to bring to Ghanaians “Death and the King’s Horseman,” with sponsorship from Stanbic Bank, The Luckiest, Bills Savings & Loans, and MTN, with support from Nii Plants Car Rentals, Joy Fm and The Ghana Tourism Authority. 

    https://web.facebook.com/share/v/16gYKgvagY

    This play is based on events which took place in Oyo, ancient Yoruba city of Nigeria, in 1946. That year, the lives of Elesin (Olori Elesin), his son, and the Colonial District Officer inter- twined with the disastrous results set out in the play. The changes I have made are in matters of detail, sequence and of course characterization.

    The action has also been set back two or three years to while the war was still on, for minor reasons of dramaturgy. The factual account still exists in the archives of the British Colonial Administration. It has already inspired a fine play in Yoruba (Oba Waja) by Duro Ladipo. It has also misbegotten a film by some German television company.

    Ghanaian actor, Tandoh-Adote, will play the role of Elesin Oba, the tragic hero. Speaking on PrimeTime with George Quaye on Joy Prime, Tandoh-Adote described Death and the King’s Horseman as the toughest production he has ever prepared for, requiring immense dedication and effort. He promised audiences a powerful and moving performance.

    Editor’s Introduction

    Death and the King’s Horseman is a complicated play, and some familiarity with both the Yoruba

    people and their religion is necessary to understand even the most basic plot points in the play.

    The Yoruba are one of the three largest ethnic groups of Nigeria, concentrated in the southwestern part of that country. Most Yoruba men are farmers, growing yams, corn (maize), and millet as staples and plantains, peanuts, beans, and peas. Cocoa is a major cash crop. Others are traders or craftsmen. 

    Women do little farm work but control much of the market system—their status depends more on their own position in the marketplace than on their husbands’ status. Historically, the Yoruba founded and ruled numerous kingdoms of various sizes. Each kingdom had its own capital city or town and was ruled by a hereditary king, or oba.

    Yoruba Cosmology

    The Yoruba have an elaborate hierarchy of divine beings, each with special duties and functions. They believe in a supreme but remote spirit, Olodumare, also known as Olorun, the lord of heaven and the creator. Some four hundred lesser gods and spirits, known individually and collectively as Orisa, are recognized. An Orisa is a person who lived on earth when it was first created and from whom present-day people are descended. 

    They were brought forth by Olodumare to serve as ministers and functionaries in the government of the universe. Although the Supreme Being is transcendent, he is not removed from humanity; he is interested in the lives of people. He is accessible, and can be called on at any time, but he controls the world from a distance.

    The foundation of this religion is interaction between human beings and the Orisa. Each Orisa is associated with particular ideas, objects, or natural phenomena. The Orisas appear at religious celebrations through a possession trance of Orisa believers. When one is possessed by an Orisa, one speaks and behaves as though one were that Orisa.

    The image to the right is of the cosmos as the Yoruba understand it. There are two halves of one whole sphere: Aye, this physical world, and Orun, the Otherworld. The Otherworld is

    the home of the Orisa and of the Sprits, including the spirits of one’s ancestors. This world is populated by the Living, who are divided into Those Who Know [the Truth] and Those Who Do Not Know. The barrier between these worlds is Death. But this barrier is not impenetrable; the Orisa possess those who wear their masks, and one’s ancestors can be called upon to manifest themselves in this world as well.

    Esu is the messenger of Olodumare, taking sacrifices to him and bringing his commands to humans, acting under his orders and punishing the wicked for him. But Esu is also important in and of himself. He has a number of manifestations, can change his form when he wishes, and has two hundred names, signifying how diverse an Orisa he is. In some of his manifestations he is benevolent and a protector of humans, but he is mainly considered to be malicious, causing confusion and promoting malice. 

    The Yoruba believe him to be the cause of almost every evil tendency and practice in humans. He is capricious, and elusive, yet the Yoruba still offer him sacrifices, mainly to avoid or escape his wickedness, callousness and evil plans. He is generally described as buruku (bad, malevolent). 

    The Yoruba often consider their pantheon not as just four hundred gods, but four hundred and one, with Esu being the divinity on top of the four hundred. He is also called Elegba or Elegbara. Ifa is the oracle divinity of Yorubaland. He is the deputy of Olodumare in matters of wisdom, prognostication and foreknowledge. People consult him on all occasions for advice, prophecy, guidance, and solutions to problems. The rituals associated with divining the future are also known as Ifa.

    Soyinka is also presenting the complications that arrived with the Scramble for Africa and its aftermath. With the expansion of European colonization in the early twentieth century, the traditional religions of the Yoruba were seriously changed. The colonial powers curtailed or banned many religious practices, including the practice of Ifa. They also forbid polygamy and the common practice of marrying a dead male relative’s widow and adopting his children.

    The Yoruba were no longer able to bury their dead in or near their own dwellings, because the Europeans insisted on the use of communal graveyards. This change complicated the connection between the Yoruba and their ancestors.

  • “Congratulations to you both” – Nicki Minaj to Davido after Miami wedding

    “Congratulations to you both” – Nicki Minaj to Davido after Miami wedding

    Trinidadian rapper, singer, and songwriter Nicki Minaj has once again extended congratulations to Nigerian-American singer-songwriter and record producer

     and his wife, Davido, born David Adedeji Adeleke OON and his wife, Chioma, after their recent white wedding.

    On Sunday, August 10, Davido and Chioma had an extravagant wedding in Miami, Florida. Nicki Minaj sent her congratulations after Davido went online to express his joy after the wedding celebration.

     “We had an amazing wedding, perfect in fact! Me and my wife body still dey sweet us like this. Nothing una git do, say, or make up will ever change the fact that we had a fairytale wedding! And one of the best days of not the best day of our lives! The whole world celebrated us!”, he wrote.

    In reaction to this statement, Nicky wrote, “Congratulations to you both”.

    Per reports, Davido’s white wedding cost $3.7 million. The ceremony took place at the Mana Wynwood Convention Centre, a venue that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.

    Davido made a grand entrance in a customized white Lamborghini Revuelto, a gift to himself, while Chioma arrived gracefully in a white Rolls Royce, her face veiled as she walked down the aisle.

    Davido is said to have gifted Chioma a factory-iced Richard Mille RM 07-01 Intergalactic Bright Night watch, valued at approximately $300,000. The wedding ring worn by Chioma reportedly cost $950,000.

    The event brought in several distinguished personalities including Nigeria’s wealthiest man, Aliko Dangote, Osun State governor Ademola Adeleke, Abia State governor Alex Otti, and the former Nigerian Senate president, Bukola Saraki.

    Others included Dbanj, Adekunle Gold, Teni, Zlatan Ibile, Stonebwoy and his wife, business mogul Obi Cubana and international gospel sensation Kirk Franklin.

    Per reports, Davido chartered multiple jets to transport his family and friends from Nigeria and across the world.

    In 2024, Nicki Minaj extended her congratulations to Davido and Chioma after they held their traditional marriage.

    She did this during her Pink Friday 2 World Tour (Gag City Tour). Specifically, she congratulated them before performing “Holy Ground”, a music track by Davido that she featured on.

    She was stocked about news of Davido’s traditional wedding.”Wait, did Davido get married?,” she quizzed, quickly adding that “Congratulations to Davido and Chioma!”

    Prior to the traditional ceremony, Davido told his fans in a viral video that “Come to Nigeria for my wedding.” The said video included several prominent individuals, including Tobi Adegboyega, founder of the now-defunct Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church, which was formerly based in London, England.

    Last year’s wedding, dubbed #CHIVIDO2024, was held in Lagos, Nigeria, and drew several distinguished guests from across the world.

    Social media users could not stop discussing the ambience and outfits worn at the lavish ceremony.

    Watch video below:

    About Davido

    Streamed over 2 billion times and handpicked by FIFA to lead their 2022 World Cup Soundtrack collaboration “Hayya Hayya (Better Together)”, American born, Nigerian raised afrobeats icon Davido (born David Adedeji Adeleke) has cemented his position as a global force within the music scene. And the past 12 months capped off another banner year for the platinum artist including his second sold out show at London’s O2 Arena and the release of his third studio album, A Better Time, the critically acclaimed follow up to his 1.2 billion streaming 2019 release, A Good Time.

    A Better Time, described by Davido as his most personal work was released at the end of 2020 and debuted on Billboards 200 album chart garnering over 560 million streams and producing certified hits High featuring Adekunle Gold, Holy Ground Ft. Nicki Minaj and Shopping Spree ft. Chris Brown & Young Thug. Shopping Spree marked Davido’s 10th entry on Billboard’s World Digital Song Chart, it was highlighted by millions of video views and attracted the praise of Rolling Stone, HighSnobiety and Complex. In addition to both fan and critical acclaim, 2021 saw Davido’s U.S. visibility continue to soar with thrilling national television appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah and Jimmy Kimmel Live. With new music to be released in Spring 2022, the world is watching to see what Davido does next. But his success has not been easy, it has taken a tremendous amount of work.

    Davido’s rise has been a building process and 2019 was a powerful year for Davido, it saw him play his first sold out date at London’s O2 Arena –the first solo African artist to do this –creating mass hysteria across America with his smash hit single Fall which is now certified GOLD in the US and Canada. The song went on to have the longest run of an Afrobeats single on the Billboard Charts, and saw it peak across Shazam as one of the most searched songs in the States. To date the video for Fall sits as the No.1 Afrobeats music video with over 212 million views on YouTube Music – bringing his overall views across the platform to over 1 billion..

    A citizen of the world, if anything has framed where Davido currently is, it would his “childhood”. The youngest of five, growing up with his parents in Lagos, Nigeria, he was “exposed” to the world. Across summer breaks he would travel to visit his siblings in London and Atlanta, the latter being home to some of the artists that he today he can call his good friends and collaborators – YoungThug, Gunna, Lil Baby – and the home to some of his favourite rappers growing up – Ludacris, Nelly – the sounds of noughties Hip Hop that he “loved”. It was most likely these trips that would drive a love for music that reflected global ambition.

    This exposure to the world, would in turn give Davido the opportunity to share with his University friend’s music from Nigeria, that he knew if “given a chance” would go global. This notion was actualized for him in hearing the “classic” album. The Entertainer from Afrobeats maverick D’Banj that made Davido fall “in love with Afrobeats”.

    Spurred on further by watching his cousin and now hype-man Special work alongside the Mo’ Hits crew, the idea of becoming a musician became more an attenable fete, and more attractive than an atypical route in academics.

    Starting out releasing singles in a less conventional approach, that would probably leave most labels in doubt, Davido amassed a cult following across Nigeria, and in turn Africa. Despite being young his music was “stuff the older people could like” and so bridged the generational gap of those who enjoyed the classic sounds of Shina Peters but also the new take on Afrobeats. From his debut single Back When to Dami Duro it was not long before Davido struck gold with Skelewu, now boasting to over 50 million streams and views. At the time admittedly “labels were still understanding” the Afrobeats resurgence, but the intrigue of the sound that was quickly spreading worldwide pricked the ears of A&Rs across the globe, and it was not long before Sony Music signed the Nigerian star. Nevertheless, David’s approach remained the same working with his go-to producers Shizzi and  Kiddominant, to release enough music across the past 10 years to make “5 albums”.

    A faultless methodology that catapulted David’s profile globally – as he knew was possible. Lauded as the ‘King of Afrobeats’ by his “30 Billion Gang”, who have made him the most followed Afrobeats artist on social media across platforms. He now holds a discography now attesting to over 2 billion global streams and 1 billion video views, earning over 30 awards internationally including the MOBO for Best African Act, the MTV EMA for Best African Act an Best International Act, two MTV Africa Music Awards, a BET Awards for ‘Best African Act’ and ‘Best International Act’ (2018), two Nigerian Teen Choice Awards for ‘Top Featured Artist’ and ‘Choice Male Artist’. Successive hit singles If, Fall and Fia have seen recognition fawn in from around the world.

    Retirement not being an option, for a long while, Davido’s mentorship has become something dear to him; in the same way the likes of “D’Banj and 2Face” did for him. Founding his DMW label in 2016, nurturing the talents of Mayorkun, Peruzzi, Dremo and many more. Mentorship and the familial approach taken to music, is something Davido attributes to the burgeoning Latin music scene, they “collaborate, tour together and the streams grow” and something he feels could be a great addition to the African scene, as he feels that not “one person could do it on their own”.

  • Communication Ministry fines MultiChoice GHC10k daily over delayed submission of pricing data

    Communication Ministry fines MultiChoice GHC10k daily over delayed submission of pricing data

    Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has announced the imposition of a GHC10,000 statutory fine on MultiChoice Ghana for failing to submit to his outfit critical pricing data requested pursuant to the Electronic Communications Act (ECA).

    According to the sector minister, the fine, which was imposed on Friday, August 15, will accrue daily until MultiChoice Ghana provides the ministry the information requested.

    Engaing the MultiChoice Ghana team on Thursday, August 14, he revealed that the company failed to release the data despite being granted an extension which expired on Monday, August 11, 2025.

    The requested data includes a breakdown of bouquet prices, tax components, and comparisons with at least six other African countries.

    This is to be provided to aid discussions on reducing subscription fees for Ghanaian customers.

    “The regulator informed me that you requested an extension until Monday. Under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA), every day that an operator fails to provide requested information attracts a GHC10,000 penalty. I agreed to wait until Monday rather than starting charges immediately, as the difference of a few days was not critical at that stage,” he said.

    “However, as of today’s meeting, the regulator has confirmed that the requested information has still not been provided. This makes it impossible to have a meaningful engagement, as the data we need to justify or challenge your pricing has not been submitted. From today, therefore, the Ministry will begin applying the statutory fine of GHC10,000 per day until the full information is received,” the minister said.

    He noted that if need be, “we can freeze accounts to protect consumer interests,” adding that “The law is clear, and we will enforce it.”

    “If the evidence shows taxes are the sole reason for high prices, I will advocate for a tax review. If not, we expect DStv to comply with our directive to make subscriptions more affordable,” he added.

    Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations Samuel George has emphatically stated that MultiChoice Ghana, the operators of DStv, will not succeed with its lobbying attempts to compel him to overturn his decision for a sharp price drop. 

    According to Mr. George, several intermediaries allegedly linked to DStv have approached members of government to convince him to rescind his decision.

    But he remains unwavering, insisting that the government’s ultimate responsibility is to protect the interests of its citizens.

    “Look, all the places they are walking around, getting the foreign minister of South Africa to call the Ghanaian foreign minister to call me. It’s not going to work…. Look, making it a foreign affairs issue and saying what? There are South African businesses. The biggest South African business in Ghana is MTN. Has MTN complained about this? When I dealt with MTN, MTN worked with me on everything,” he stated.

    He continued, “When I made the case to MTN, I wanted more data for the Ghanaian people. They said, ‘Well, we have a challenge with the network. We want more spectrum. I yielded. I went to the cabinet and got cabinet approval and gave them more spectrum.”

    Honourable Sam George further advised Ghanaian business. 

    “So, you work with your regulator in the interest of your customers and in the interest of your business. You don’t place your business interest as the only interest you have and ignore completely the consumer interest.”

    Beyond pricing, Mr. George highlighted critical operational failures, chief among them being cross-border piracy.

    He claimed that a staggering “40 to 45% of DStv devices in Ghana today are all devices from Nigeria”, a situation he says MultiChoice has failed to tackle.

    This influx of Nigerian-registered devices, he argued, allows MultiChoice to collect revenue while the Ghanaian state loses out on tax, and it artificially suppresses Ghana’s official subscriber numbers, which the company then uses to justify its high prices.

    “When you say you have a low subscription in Ghana, it’s because your prices are not uniform and have led to cross-border piracy on your platform,” he charged.

    The minister cited regional precedents where regulators took a hard line, forcing MultiChoice to adjust its practices.

    “In Malawi, in 2023, they just shut them down. MultiChoice went to court, lost the case, and four months later came back, offered one week free, and dropped the prices. In Liberia they slashed the premium package by $30. In Nigeria in 2024, the Nigerian House of Reps passed an instruction prohibiting the increases,” he detailed.

    The National Communications Authority (NCA) has served Multichoice Ghana Limited with a notice of its intention to suspend the company’s Subscription Management Service for a Satellite Television Broadcasting (Pay TV Direct-to-Home Bouquet) Authorisation pursuant to Section 13 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).

    In a statement issued on August 7, the NCA noted that “Multichoice Ghana has thirty (30) days within which the company may present its views, or provide remedial action, and submit a written statement of its objections to the suspension of the authorisation.”

    This comes after Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation Sam Nartey George’s DStv license suspension directive to the National Communications Authority (NCA) today, August 7, should Multichoice fail to reduce the prices of its subscription services by 30 percent.

    The two parties have refused to budge with respect to a price reduction or a stakeholder meeting to come to a common ground.

    Engaging the public last week as part of the Government Accountability Series, the minister noted that he received a 9-page document from Multichoice on July 21 over its inability to reduce its subscription fees. The company cited depreciation of the cedi in past years, despite the recent cedi appreciation, as the reason for its inability to reduce prices.

    Sam George noted that it is unacceptable for Nigerians to be paying less for the same packages offered Ghanaians at higher costs when the naira has depreciated at an accelerating rate against the cedi. As such, he has directed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to suspend the broadcast of DStv in about a week from now should Multichoice fail to reduce prices of its packages.

    “Their reasons included that the cedi had depreciated in the preceding eight years by 240%, and they claimed that my request for a reduction on the basis of the appreciation of the cedi was unfounded because, in their words, the appreciation of the Ghana cedi over the last 6 months has been a fluke which could not be sustainable. As Minister, my fidelity is to the Ghanaian people. I have to act in the interest of the Ghanaian people, and I believe the Ghanaian people have been fleeced and exploited for too long. I wrote back to the NCA on Monday and directed the NCA in that letter to suspend the broadcasting license of dstv effective 7th of August 2025 if they fail to effect a reduction in their bundle prices,” he said.

    “I can’t as minister serving the Ghanaian people, continue to watch what can be best described as plain stealing happening to the Ghanaian people. In my letter to them, I gave them scenarios from seven markets that dstv is operating in. The same content in the premium bouquet that is offered to Ghanaians for the $83 equivalent is offered to Nigerians for the $29 equivalent. How can anyone explain this price disparity to me? Enough of the mistreatment of the Ghanaian consumer. In Nigeria, in the same timeframe, they say the Ghanaian cedi has depreciated by 240%, the Nigerian naira has depreciated by 409%. If Nigerians are paying the equivalent of $29, dstv must charge the same here in Ghana,” he added.

    As per a statement signed by MultiChoice Ghana Managing Director , Mr. Alex Okyere on August 3, the company emphasized that the Minister’s proposal to drastically review its prices is not workable. According to the company, it acknowledges the positive impact of the local currency, the cedi, against foreign currencies, specifically the U.S. dollar. However, a significant decrease in prices cannot be attained by the company.

    “While we appreciate the recent appreciation of the cedi— which we have never referred to as a ‘fluke’— it is not tenable to reduce the DStv subscription fees in the manner proposed by the Minister,” the statement read.

    In a rebuttal, Mr Nartey George noted that Ghanaian consumers are being taken for granted compared to Nigerian consumers. According to him, bouquet prices were reversed after the Nigerian authorities sued the company and ordered a suspension of an increase in price.

    The Minority Caucus in Parliament has requested the appearance of the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, along with representatives of MultiChoice Ghana, to address concerns over the recent reduction in package prices.

    A statement signed by the Member of Parliament for Kpandai, Matthew Nyindam, on behalf of the Minority, on Sunday, August 3, indicated that the invitation has become crucial in order to strike a better deal between the two parties.

    The Minority has also emphasized that “We agree that subscription fees must be set fairly and reflect the realities of Ghana’s economy. We fully support the advocacy initiated by patriotic citizens, which has now attracted the attention of the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation. We agree that subscription fees must be set fairly and reflect the realities of Ghana’s economy.”

    Presently, Parliamentary sittings have come to a halt after the House proceeded on recess. The House is expected to reconvene in October. On July 4, Samuel Nartey George engaged the leadership of MultiChoice Ghana to discuss a possible reduction in fees for DSTV subscriptions. This comes after issues of affordability became topical in recent months after an increase in subscription fees in April.

    The sector minister made this known when he engaged the media on July 3 on key initiatives and developments within the sector under the second quarter.

    “Last week, I invited the senior leadership of MultiChoice Ghana to a formal dialogue on DSTV’s subscription pricing in Ghana. The meeting addressed public concerns about affordability, value for money, and fairness in service delivery. I made it clear the ministry’s expectation that pricing structures must be responsive to Ghana’s economic context,” he said.

    “I have a meeting scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, even though it’s a public holiday, with the Ghana team and their South African counterparts, the management from South Africa, they arrived tonight to agree on a way forward on the issues raised,” the minister indicated.

    He further said; “The outcomes will be shared with the public in due course. This engagement reflects our commitment to regulatory accountability and our resolve to ensure that digital services in Ghana remain fair, accessible, and responsive to the needs of citizens. I’ll make you one promise, I won’t leave tomorrow’s meeting without securing a drop in the pricing of DSTV. That is a solemn promise I make to you.”

    Subscribers of DStv across Africa, effective April 1, 2025, experienced a price increase of over 15% on their monthly subscription fees, a decision that left many Ghanaian customers aggrieved. The pay-TV provider cited rising consumer inflation and economic challenges as key factors influencing the decision.

    According to the new pricing structure, in Ghana, the cost of the premium package rose from GHC750 to GHC865, representing a 15.33% increase. The Compact Plus package moved from GHC495 to GHC570, marking a 15.15% jump, while the Compact package increased from GHC330 to GHC380, also reflecting a 15.15% rise.

    The Family package now costs GHC190, up from GHC165, indicating a 15.15% increase, whereas the Access package went up by 16.47%, from GHC85 to GHC99. Subscribers to the DStv Lite package experienced the highest percentage surge of 18.00%, moving from GHC50 to GHC59. The DStv-Asia Standalone package climbed by 14.75%, from GHC305 to GHC350. The Great Wall Add-on increased from GHC70 to GHC80, marking a 14.29% rise.

    For those subscribed to the French content add-ons, the French Add-on now costs GHC250, up from GHC215 (16.28% increase), while the French Plus Add-on rose from GHC435 to GHC500, reflecting a 14.94% increase. The French Touch Add-on costs GHC150, up from GHC130, marking a 15.38% increase.

    The cost of premium packages with add-ons has also been adjusted. Premium with Asia Add-on increased from GHC1,055 to GHC1,215 (15.17% increase), while Premium with French Add-on now costs GHC1,365, up from GHC1,185 (15.19% increase). The HD-PVR service rose by 15.00%, from GHC100 to GHC115.

    Following this, consumer rights organization CUTS International pushed for government intervention in MultiChoice Ghana Limited’s decision to raise subscription fees, arguing that customers were given inadequate notice ahead of the increase. About a month ago, MultiChoice Ghana announced an upgrade in all of its DStv and GOtv packages as well as a reduction in the price of its decoders, from GH¢169 to GH¢89, due to the rebound of the economy.

  • State buries 6 remaining victims of August 6 helicopter crash

    State buries 6 remaining victims of August 6 helicopter crash

    The Government of Ghana has laid to rest six out of the eight victims of the Adansi helicopter crash after holding a state funeral at the Black Star Square on Friday, August 15.

    The deceased were Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; Squadron Leader Peter Anala of the Ghana Air Force; Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force; and Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.

    Among the eight victims, two Muslims — Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator in charge of Human Security, Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed — were laid to rest earlier, on Sunday, August 10, where Janazah prayers were also held at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra before they were buried at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo.

    At today’s state burial, tributes were read by the bereaved families, who expressed the love and peace they felt while living with the deceased.

    On his part, President John Mahama eulogised each of the victims, revealing their contributions and outstanding characteristics.

    “Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence — a trusted friend, a man of sharp intellect and deep conviction. As Minister, he began bold reforms to modernize our Armed Forces, enhance their capabilities, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. His energy, clarity of vision, and patriotism were unmatched.

    Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology — passionate, eloquent, and deeply committed to protecting Ghana’s environment while advancing scientific innovation. He believed the fight for our planet’s future was also the fight for Ghana’s future.

    Alhaji Mohammad Muniru Limuna, Deputy National Security Coordinator — calm, discreet, and courageous. His work, much of it unseen, played a vital role in safeguarding the peace and stability of our Republic.

    Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress — a man of humility and loyalty, respected by colleagues
    and opponents alike. He was a tireless organizer and a faithful servant of our democracy.

    Samuel Aboagye — a young and promising politician, who served as Deputy DirectorGeneral of NADMO with dedication and pride. He loved and cherished the opportunity to serve his country wholeheartedly.

    Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — The three gallant
    crew members of the Ghana Armed Forces were disciplined, highly skilled airmen whose lives were defined by the military values of
    honour, courage, and commitment.

    They were the silent guardians of our skies, ensuring the safety of every mission they undertook. Each of these men had a story. Each had a family they cherished, a vision they pursued, and a heart that beat with love for Ghana,” the president said.

    He announced the posthumous promotions of the three officers with the Ghana Air Force.

    Squadron Leader Peter Analaa, Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo have been promoted posthumously, elevating them to their next ranks as a tribute to their commitment, professionalism, and sacrifice.

    Their new ranks are Wing Commander Peter Baafemi Anala, Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Flight Sergeant Mensah Addo Ernest.

    The president also announced the creation of an Educational Children’s Support Fund for cater for the wellfare of the children of the deceased.

    It was a solemn and heartwarming ceremony that saw families and friends, as well as mourners and representatives of international organisations from near and far, in attendance.

    After the interfaith funeral service was held at the Black Star Square, the gathering proceeded to Military Cemetery in Tse Addo, Greater Accra Region, where a burial ceremony took place.

    Taking turns, the president, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the families of the deceased, Ghana Armed Forces, government officials, National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other dignitaries laid wreaths in memory of the victims of the tragic incident.

    Meanwhile, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that the relevant authorities in the United States of America have expressed interest in aiding the government of Ghana in getting to the bottom of the Z9 airforce helicopter crash on August 6 that claimed the lives of eight (8) individuals, including Ministers of State.

    Engaging the media on August 14, the Foreign Minister noted that a request was only made after an order by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.

    “I can confirm to you that on the instruction of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, we have formally requested the Americans to come in and assist. We all know that they have considerable expertise when it comes to these matters, and so the indication we have received from the Americans is that they are very much willing to assist.

    The minister added that “we are expecting the arrival of American experts soon to help us with the investigations.”

    Emphazing the need for independent experts, Mr Okudzeto Ablakwa explained that it is to “ensure that the outcome of the investigations will be acceptable to all, so that there will also be confidence in the process.”

    “It is important that this process is done in a very thorough manner, in a manner that will be at par with best practice, the international gold standard. That is what President Mahama wants us to achieve. So I can assure you that our note has long been issued,” he added.

    https://youtu.be/ISNJa7mfvNE

    Already, President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders of the airforce helicopter Z9 have been retrieved. He made this known when he addressed the nation on Thursday night, August 7, a day after the tragic incident.

    The Ghana Armed Forces has already begun investigations into the incident, the Deputy Minister for Defence, Brogya Genfi, announced on August 13.

    In his interaction with the media, the Foreign Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa did not indicate the exact institution in the United States that has been engaged.

    In the U.S., the main authority that investigates plane crashes is the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The National Transportation Safety Board is an independent federal agency charged by Congress with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States and significant events in the other modes of transportation—railroad, transit, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space.

    ​​S​​​ince its inception in 1967, the NTSB has investigated more than 153,000 ​​aviation accidents and thousands of surface transportation events. The NTSB investigates accidents and events to determine their probable cause, examine safety issues, and develop recommendations to prevent similar accidents and events in the future. The Board has issued more than 15,500 safety recommendations to more than 2,470 recipients in all transportation modes. The recommended action has been implemented for 82 percent of the over 12,700 recommendations that have been closed.

    In Ghana, the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB) handles the investigation of plane crashes.

    On 6th July, 2020, former President Nana Akufo-Addo granted executive approval for the laying in Parliament of the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Prevention Bureau Bill, 2020, pursuant to which an autonomous Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau shall be established as an institution for the conduct of investigations into aircraft accidents and incidents in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

    According to the AIB, Article 26 of the Chicago Convention requires every State in which an aviation accident occurs to investigate the event. Sequel to this convention, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13 requires that the investigation must be professionally done and devoid of any interferences and biases. 

    The capacity for the investigatory body must not only be legal, but also well structured, resourced and autonomous in its operations and findings. Additionally, in 2019, when ICAO conducted a Validation Mission to test Ghana’s level of Effective Implementation (EI) of ICAO SARPs, Ghana obtained an EI score of 89.89 percent.

  • Tribute by President John Dramani Mahama

    Tribute by President John Dramani Mahama

    On Wednesday, August 6th, 2025, our nation awoke to a tragedy that would forever cast its shadow over the heart of Ghana.

    A Ghana Armed Forces helicopter, carrying some of our most dedicated public servants and gallant military personnel, went down in the Ashanti Region.

    In a single, cruel moment, eight bright lights in our national life were extinguished. It is difficult to put into words the weight of such loss. The grief we feel is not only the sorrow of individuals but the collective mourning of a people.

    Ghana has lost leaders whose work touched every corner of our Republic — leaders whose service was not measured in days, but in
    their impact and the lives they touched. For me, this is not only a moment of national tragedy but also personal heartbreak. These were not just colleagues in public service; they were brothers in arms, trusted advisors, and friends whose counsel and loyalty I valued beyond measure.

    Theirs was a journey of duty. On that fateful day, they were in active service to the Republic, pursuing assignments vital to our people’s safety, security, and progress.

    They did not seek recognition or applause; they were doing what they had always done — giving of themselves, without hesitation, for the good of Ghana.

    That is the nature of accurate service. It is often quiet, often unseen, but always driven by love for country and a deep sense of responsibility to one’s fellow citizens. Their final act was one of service, which is how they will be remembered.

    Among those we lost were:

    Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence — a trusted friend, a man of sharp intellect and deep conviction. As Minister, he began bold reforms to modernize our Armed Forces, enhance their capabilities, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. His energy, clarity of vision, and patriotism were unmatched.

    Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology — passionate, eloquent, and deeply committed to protecting Ghana’s environment while advancing scientific innovation. He believed the fight for our planet’s future was also the fight for Ghana’s future.

    Alhaji Mohammad Muniru Limuna, Deputy National Security Coordinator — calm, discreet, and courageous. His work, much of it unseen, played a vital role in safeguarding the peace and stability of our Republic.

    Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress — a man of humility and loyalty, respected by colleagues
    and opponents alike. He was a tireless organizer and a faithful servant of our democracy.

    Samuel Aboagye — a young and promising politician, who served as Deputy DirectorGeneral of NADMO with dedication and pride. He loved and cherished the opportunity to serve his country wholeheartedly.

    Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — The three gallant
    crew members of the Ghana Armed Forces were disciplined, highly skilled airmen whose lives were defined by the military values of
    honour, courage, and commitment.

    They were the silent guardians of our skies, ensuring the safety of every mission they undertook. Each of these men had a story. Each had a family they cherished, a vision they pursued, and a heart that beat with love for Ghana.

    I recall many private moments — late-night calls to discuss pressing matters of state, quiet words of encouragement before a difficult decision, shared laughter in moments of relief after challenges
    overcome. They were not only men of duty, but men of warmth, kindness, and humanity. They believed in the Ghana we are building — a nation of opportunity, justice, and unity Their absence leaves a void in our leadership and my heart. But the values they lived by — integrity, humility, loyalty — will remain a guiding light for all who follow in their footsteps.

    The temptation to ask “Why?” is strong in moments like this. But even as we seek answers, we must remember that unity is the most accurate way to honour them.

    This is not a time for division or speculation. It is a time to support each other, comfort the grieving, and renew our shared commitment to the ideals they stood for.

    The Government of Ghana has ordered a complete and transparent investigation into the cause of the crash. We owe it to their memory — and to every Ghanaian who serves — to ensure that lessons are learned, and such a tragedy is never repeated.

    Though their voices have fallen silent, their legacy will endure. It will be seen in the stronger Armed Forces they helped shape, the environmental protections they fought for, the security measures they championed, and the democratic institutions they strengthened.

    May their stories inspire future generations to serve with the same courage, humility, and dedication.

    On behalf of a grateful nation, I extend my deepest sympathies to their families, friends, and all whose lives they touched.

    May the Almighty God grant them eternal rest. May He heal the broken hearts of those they leave behind. And may Ghana — the nation for which they lived and died — remain forever worthy of their sacrifice.

  • Biography of Sergeant Mensah Addo Ernest

    Biography of Sergeant Mensah Addo Ernest

    It is often said that the hour of death cannot be foretold. Though we acknowledge this truth, we tend to believe such a moment lies far ahead.

    Never did we imagine that we would gather today to remember and mourn Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, whose earthly remains lie before us, having fallen in the line of duty while serving our beloved Mother Ghana.

    Born on 5 July 1988 in Accra to the late Ex-WOI Emmanuel Mensah Ashaiquaye and the late Victoria Abla Morkey, Ernest hailed from La Abafum Quarter in the Greater Accra Region and Ehi in the Ketu North District of the Volta Region. After the loss of his parents, Rev. Chief Supt.

    Stella Ama Katso Anku lovingly assumed a motherly role, nurturing and guiding him through life. From an early age, Ernest carried a quiet strength, humility, and a heart devoted to faith, family, and service, a legacy that would remain constant throughout his years.

    He began his education at La Emmaus Presbyterian Primary (A&B) School and continued at La Enobal “2” Junior High School from 2001 to 2004. He later pursued studies at Emit Electronic Institute from 2004 to 2007, where his interest in technical and mechanical work first blossomed.

    Friends and teachers recall a young man who embodied honesty, respect, and kindness, who listened intently, spoke thoughtfully, and readily offered help to others.

    Ernest was a man who treasured relationships. His marriage to Miss Mercy Amoah on 5 July 2025 was a joyous celebration of love, witnessed by family and friends. Though their union was heartbreakingly short, it was built on deep affection, mutual respect, and shared hopes for the future.

    A devoted Christian, Ernest was baptised and confirmed in the
    Evangelical Presbyterian Church, South La Estate, and later worshipped at the Presby Methodist Church in Takoradi. His life was anchored in an unwavering faith in Christ Jesus, and his greatest desire was for his loved ones to come to a saving knowledge of the Lord.

    He lived with eternity in view, carrying himself with humility and discipline as a true servant of God. In his community, Ernest was a source of warmth, generosity, and encouragement. His ready smile,
    kind words, and genuine concern for others made him a cherished figure among neighbours and friends.

    He was the person people turned to in times of need and he is always willing to lend a hand, often going out of his way to help without expecting anything in return. Although Ernest dedicated fourteen years of his life to the Ghana Armed Forces and served with skill and professionalism, his true legacy lies in the lives he touched beyond the uniform.

    He lived a life of warmth, kindness, and genuine engagement with
    people from all walks of life. His ever-present smile warmed hearts, and his kind words and concern for others made him a cherished figure in his neighborhood and beyond.

    He never hesitated to help those in distress, often going out of his way to assist anyone in need. His generosity of spirit and compassionate nature were a gift to all who knew him. His love for God, devotion to family, and compassion for humanity remain the hallmarks of his life.

    Rest in perfect peace, faithful servant. Your work on earth is done, and your crown awaits in glory.




  • Biography of F/O Manaen Twum Ampadu

    Biography of F/O Manaen Twum Ampadu

    Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, affectionately known as Papa Twum or Paa Tee, was born on January 7, 1995, in Accra to Rev. MacDouglas Emmanuel Ampadu of Aduama and Mrs. Patience Adjeley Ampadu Ablorh of Teshie.

    Born into royal lineage from the Etena clan of Abene, he was named after his paternal grandfather, Isaac Kwadjo Mensah Twum. He was raised in Aburi, where his mother worked at the Presbyterian Women’s College of Education (PWCE), Manaen was the elder of two siblings.

    He began his education at Chrisland International School (Aburi) and later attended Deks Preparatory International (Tema), DeBright International, and Feberck International (Nungua) before returning to Deks International to complete his Junior High School education. Manaem continued his education at Presbyterian Secondary Technical (PST), Aburi, where he developed a keen interest in Geography.

    He proceeded to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology(KNUST), earning a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and
    Rural Development (Second Class Upper Division, 2017). During his studies, he interned at Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and later completed his national service there.

    He was driven by his childhood dream of becoming a pilot, Manaem enlisted in the Ghana Military Academy in 2020. A devoted son, brother, and friend, Manaen valued family above all. His marriage on 27 April 2024 to Naval Lieutenant Awura Adjao Kumi-Kyere marked a new and joyful chapter in his life.

    He embraced his role as a husband with the same commitment and tenderness that characterised all his relationships. Faith was the cornerstone of Manaen’s life. Baptised in 2002 under his father’s
    ministry, he was a devout Fundamental Baptist and an active member of Set Time Baptist Church, where he served as his father’s armour bearer on evangelism missions.

    His leadership extended to serving as President of the Fundamental Baptist Students Fellowship (KNUST). His compassion for the less fortunate was evident in his support
    for Zion Helping Hand, a charity aiding children in rural communities, and his contributions to Jesus’ Kitchen, feeding the homeless.

    Beyond his faith and family commitments, Manaen was known for his humility, diligence, and adventurous spirit. He loved football, reading, computer games, and sightseeing, often bringing joy and laughter to those around him. Friends and colleagues remember his willingness to help, his encouraging words, and his unwavering moral compass.

    Although he fulfilled a childhood dream by joining the Ghana Air Force and training as a pilot, flying was only one aspect of his rich and purposeful life. Whether in the cockpit, at home, in church, or among friends, Manaen’s life was defined by service, love, and integrity.

    His passing is a profound loss to his family, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the nation, but his influence lives on in the countless lives he touched. As written in 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, we hold fast to the promise that “the Lord Himself will descend with a shout… and the dead in Christ shall rise first.” Rest well, Papa Twum.
    Your race is run, but your light will shine forever in our hearts.


  • Biography of Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala

    Biography of Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala

    Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala was born on 2 November 1989. He hailed from Siniensi, in the Builsa North District of the Upper East Region, and was the youngest child of Paul Oscar Anala and Lucy Apung Anala. He spent his formative years in Tamale, where his family resided.

    Even in his early years, it was evident that Peter possessed a keen interest in technical skills. None could have foreseen that the vibrant young boy would one day serve his nation with such selflessness and dedication, ultimately paying the ultimate price.

    As fate would have it, Peter began his primary and junior secondary education at Barwah Barracks, home to the Air Force Base in Tamale. He later attended St James Seminary/ Secondary School, where his discipline and academic excellence flourished. He often likened his alma mater to a military training camp, reflecting the profound impact it had on shaping his character. Upon graduating from St James, Peter pursued a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), graduating in 2012.

    He went on to obtain a Master of Science in Air Transport and Aviation Management from the same institution in 2023. At the time of his passing, he was pursuing postgraduate studies in Safety and Accident Investigation in the United Kingdom. Within his community, Peter was known as someone who never forgot his roots.

    Whether mentoring young people, advising friends, or assisting neighbours, he consistently sought to uplift others. His generosity extended beyond words, he was a man of action who believed that service to God and humanity was the highest calling. Though his career in the Ghana Air Force brought him recognition as a skilled
    pilot and dedicated officer, Peter’s true legacy lies in the relationships he built and the lives he touched.

    His integrity, kindness, and unassuming nature endeared him to all.
    Peter is survived by his wife, Ursula Wematu Asaghedewe, and their daughter. Despite the demands of his career, family remained the
    cornerstone of his life.

    He loved them deeply and spoke of them with warmth and pride to all who would listen A baptised and confirmed Catholic, Peter held deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. His faith guided his principles and approach to life, and he remained steadfast in it until the very end. Peter’s legacy stands as an enduring example of bravery, academic excellence, and patriotic sacrifice. His life epitomised dedication to family, faith and nation.

    We join his family, church, and community in mourning this great loss. We celebrate the life of a man who, though gone too soon, lived fully and left an indelible mark on every heart he encountered.
    May his soul rest in perfect peace.

  • GAF officers involved in August 6 helicopter crash promoted posthumously

    GAF officers involved in August 6 helicopter crash promoted posthumously

    The three fallen members of the Ghana Air Force involved in the Adansi helicopter crash on August 6 have received posthumous promotions in recognition of their service to the country.

    Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama announced their promotion while speaking at the state funeral held at the Black Star Square on Friday, August 15, 2025.

    Squadron Leader Peter Analaa, Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo all of the Ghana Air Force, have been promoted posthumously, elevating them to their next ranks as a tribute to their commitment, professionalism, and sacrifice.

    Their new ranks are Wing Commander Peter Baafemi Anala, Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Flight Sergeant Mensah Addo Ernest.

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) described the trio as gallant officers whose service to Ghana will continue to inspire future generations.

    “Their service lives on. Their legacy stands tall,” the GAF stated in a circular announcing their promotion.

    https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1141579541352468&set=a.468915825285513

    Biography of Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala (GH/4281)

    Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala was born on 2 November 1989. He hailed from Siniensi, in the Builsa North District of the Upper East Region, and was the youngest child of Paul Oscar Anala and Lucy Apung Anala. He spent his formative years in Tamale, where his family resided.

    Even in his early years, it was evident that Peter possessed a keen interest in technical skills. None could have foreseen that the vibrant young boy would one day serve his nation with such selflessness and dedication, ultimately paying the ultimate price.

    As fate would have it, Peter began his primary and junior secondary education at Barwah Barracks, home to the Air Force Base in Tamale. He later attended St James Seminary/ Secondary School, where his discipline and academic excellence flourished. He often likened his alma mater to a military training camp, reflecting the profound impact it had on shaping his character. Upon graduating from St James, Peter pursued a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), graduating in 2012.

    He went on to obtain a Master of Science in Air Transport and Aviation Management from the same institution in 2023. At the time of his passing, he was pursuing postgraduate studies in Safety and Accident Investigation in the United Kingdom. Within his community, Peter was known as someone who never forgot his roots.

    Whether mentoring young people, advising friends, or assisting neighbours, he consistently sought to uplift others. His generosity extended beyond words, he was a man of action who believed that service to God and humanity was the highest calling. Though his career in the Ghana Air Force brought him recognition as a skilled
    pilot and dedicated officer, Peter’s true legacy lies in the relationships he built and the lives he touched.

    His integrity, kindness, and unassuming nature endeared him to all.
    Peter is survived by his wife, Ursula Wematu Asaghedewe, and their daughter. Despite the demands of his career, family remained the
    cornerstone of his life.

    He loved them deeply and spoke of them with warmth and pride to all who would listen A baptised and confirmed Catholic, Peter held deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. His faith guided his principles and approach to life, and he remained steadfast in it until the very end. Peter’s legacy stands as an enduring example of bravery, academic excellence, and patriotic sacrifice. His life epitomised dedication to family, faith and nation.

    We join his family, church, and community in mourning this great loss. We celebrate the life of a man who, though gone too soon, lived fully and left an indelible mark on every heart he encountered.
    May his soul rest in perfect peace.

    Biography of F/O Manaen Twum Ampadu (GH/5426)

    Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, affectionately known as Papa Twum or Paa Tee, was born on January 7, 1995, in Accra to Rev. MacDouglas Emmanuel Ampadu of Aduama and Mrs. Patience Adjeley Ampadu Ablorh of Teshie.

    Born into royal lineage from the Etena clan of Abene, he was named after his paternal grandfather, Isaac Kwadjo Mensah Twum. He was raised in Aburi, where his mother worked at the Presbyterian Women’s College of Education (PWCE), Manaen was the elder of two siblings.

    He began his education at Chrisland International School (Aburi) and later attended Deks Preparatory International (Tema), DeBright International, and Feberck International (Nungua) before returning to Deks International to complete his Junior High School education. Manaem continued his education at Presbyterian Secondary Technical (PST), Aburi, where he developed a keen interest in Geography.

    He proceeded to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology(KNUST), earning a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and
    Rural Development (Second Class Upper Division, 2017). During his studies, he interned at Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and later completed his national service there.

    He was driven by his childhood dream of becoming a pilot, Manaem enlisted in the Ghana Military Academy in 2020. A devoted son, brother, and friend, Manaen valued family above all. His marriage on 27 April 2024 to Naval Lieutenant Awura Adjao Kumi-Kyere marked a new and joyful chapter in his life.

    He embraced his role as a husband with the same commitment and tenderness that characterised all his relationships. Faith was the cornerstone of Manaen’s life. Baptised in 2002 under his father’s
    ministry, he was a devout Fundamental Baptist and an active member of Set Time Baptist Church, where he served as his father’s armour bearer on evangelism missions.

    His leadership extended to serving as President of the Fundamental Baptist Students Fellowship (KNUST). His compassion for the less fortunate was evident in his support
    for Zion Helping Hand, a charity aiding children in rural communities, and his contributions to Jesus’ Kitchen, feeding the homeless.

    Beyond his faith and family commitments, Manaen was known for his humility, diligence, and adventurous spirit. He loved football, reading, computer games, and sightseeing, often bringing joy and laughter to those around him. Friends and colleagues remember his willingness to help, his encouraging words, and his unwavering moral compass.

    Although he fulfilled a childhood dream by joining the Ghana Air Force and training as a pilot, flying was only one aspect of his rich and purposeful life. Whether in the cockpit, at home, in church, or among friends, Manaen’s life was defined by service, love, and integrity.

    His passing is a profound loss to his family, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the nation, but his influence lives on in the countless lives he touched. As written in 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, we hold fast to the promise that “the Lord Himself will descend with a shout… and the dead in Christ shall rise first.” Rest well, Papa Twum.
    Your race is run, but your light will shine forever in our hearts.

    Biography of Sergeant Mensah Addo Ernest (202154)

    It is often said that the hour of death cannot be foretold. Though we acknowledge this truth, we tend to believe such a moment lies far ahead.

    Never did we imagine that we would gather today to remember and mourn Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, whose earthly remains lie before us, having fallen in the line of duty while serving our beloved Mother Ghana.

    Born on 5 July 1988 in Accra to the late Ex-WOI Emmanuel Mensah Ashaiquaye and the late Victoria Abla Morkey, Ernest hailed from La Abafum Quarter in the Greater Accra Region and Ehi in the Ketu North District of the Volta Region. After the loss of his parents, Rev. Chief Supt.

    Stella Ama Katso Anku lovingly assumed a motherly role, nurturing and guiding him through life. From an early age, Ernest carried a quiet strength, humility, and a heart devoted to faith, family, and service, a legacy that would remain constant throughout his years.

    He began his education at La Emmaus Presbyterian Primary (A&B) School and continued at La Enobal “2” Junior High School from 2001 to 2004. He later pursued studies at Emit Electronic Institute from 2004 to 2007, where his interest in technical and mechanical work first blossomed.

    Friends and teachers recall a young man who embodied honesty, respect, and kindness, who listened intently, spoke thoughtfully, and readily offered help to others.

    Ernest was a man who treasured relationships. His marriage to Miss Mercy Amoah on 5 July 2025 was a joyous celebration of love, witnessed by family and friends. Though their union was heartbreakingly short, it was built on deep affection, mutual respect, and shared hopes for the future.

    A devoted Christian, Ernest was baptised and confirmed in the
    Evangelical Presbyterian Church, South La Estate, and later worshipped at the Presby Methodist Church in Takoradi. His life was anchored in an unwavering faith in Christ Jesus, and his greatest desire was for his loved ones to come to a saving knowledge of the Lord.

    He lived with eternity in view, carrying himself with humility and discipline as a true servant of God. In his community, Ernest was a source of warmth, generosity, and encouragement. His ready smile,
    kind words, and genuine concern for others made him a cherished figure among neighbours and friends.

    He was the person people turned to in times of need and he is always willing to lend a hand, often going out of his way to help without expecting anything in return. Although Ernest dedicated fourteen years of his life to the Ghana Armed Forces and served with skill and professionalism, his true legacy lies in the lives he touched beyond the uniform.

    He lived a life of warmth, kindness, and genuine engagement with
    people from all walks of life. His ever-present smile warmed hearts, and his kind words and concern for others made him a cherished figure in his neighborhood and beyond.

    He never hesitated to help those in distress, often going out of his way to assist anyone in need. His generosity of spirit and compassionate nature were a gift to all who knew him. His love for God, devotion to family, and compassion for humanity remain the hallmarks of his life.

    Rest in perfect peace, faithful servant. Your work on earth is done, and your crown awaits in glory.




  • Defence Ministry pays tribute to Dr Omane Boamah

    Defence Ministry pays tribute to Dr Omane Boamah

    The nation stands in solemn mourning as we bid farewell to an exceptional leader, a visionary and a dedicated patriot, the late Honourable Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah.

    His tragic passing, alongside seven others, in the helicopter crash of 6th August 2025, has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of Ghanaians, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the entire Ministry of Defence. Dr Omane Boamah assumed office at the Ministry on 30th January 2025.

    His tenure as Minister for Defence, though brief, was marked by transformative leadership, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

    His vision was “To have a modernised and expanded GAF, responsive to the needs of the Country, with highly motivated and happier troops, as well as committed Defence Civilian Staff, for nation building,” this was not just a statement but a mission he pursued with relentless passion. As a leader par excellence, he
    believed in collective responsibility, ensuring that every decision, whether administrative, operational or logistical, was made with the full involvement of his management team.

    His respect for transparency, due process and legal compliance set
    a standard for governance that will endure as part of his legacy. Under his leadership, the Ghana Armed Forces was set on a path to
    becoming a key player in national socio-economic development. As part of the RESET GHANA AGENDA, he championed the President’s directive to revitalise the Defence Industries Holding Company Limited (DIHOC), envisioning its expansion into a Defence Industrial Development Corporation with private sector integration.

    His dream was for DIHOC to spearhead Ghana’s industrial revolution, ensuring self-sufficiency in military production and reducing dependency on imports. Tragically, he was to receive the expert report on this transformative agenda just days after
    his untimely demise Dr Omane Boamah was a leader who empowered those around him.

    He entrusted his Deputy Minister with significant responsibilities, fostering teamwork and shared purpose. His support for government initiatives such as the Feed Ghana Programme, 24-Hour Economy and the fight against illegal mining demonstrated
    his deep commitment to national progress. He directed military units to engage in farming to reduce food expenditure, a testament to his practical and innovative approach to problem-solving.

    A medical doctor by profession, he brought his expertise to bear on improving healthcare delivery within the Armed Forces, addressing systemic challenges with precision and care. His problem-solving approach was exemplary. He demanded not just problems but solutions, encouraging critical thinking and accountability at all levels.

    Above all, Honourable Omane Boamah was a leader who cared deeply for people. He made time for everyone from the senior
    commanders, officers, soldiers through to the civilian staff alike.
    His humility, approachability and dedication earned him the admiration and respect of all who worked with him.

    As we mourn his passing, though shocked, we take solace in the indelible mark he left on Ghana’s defence architecture and the lives he touched. His legacy will live on in the modernised Armed Forces he envisioned, the policies he championed and the lives he inspired.

    He was a good man with a kind heart. A leader we will greatly miss. To his family, the Ghana Armed Forces and the nation at large, we extend our deepest condolences. May his soul and the souls of the seven others who perished with him, rest in perfect peace. Farewell, Our Honourable Minister. Your Service was Exemplary, Your Vision Transformative and Your Memory Eternal.

  • Tribute by Madam Letitia Asante: Mother of Dr Kofi Omane Boamah

    Tribute by Madam Letitia Asante: Mother of Dr Kofi Omane Boamah

    My Handsome King, from the moment I first held you in my arms on
    December 26th, 1975, at Nkawkaw Holy Family Hospital, I knew my life had changed forever.

    You were not just my child, you were my miracle, my answered prayer, my only son, and my treasure in whom I am pleased. I watched you grow from a curious little boy with bright eyes into a man of wisdom, compassion, and unshakable integrity.

    Every step you took, I was there quietly cheering, praying, and believing in the greatness God placed in you. Kofi, you have always been my pride and joy. I have seen you face challenges with courage, hold fast to your values even when it was not easy, and rise to serve others with humility.

    You never forgot the lessons I whispered into your heart: to walk with God, to speak the truth, and to stand for what is right.

    Your deep love for God’s work was admirable, always eager to be in the Parish and faithfully devoted to the Catholic faith. Though you could not become a Roman Father, you still fulfilled your childhood
    dream of serving God and mankind faithfully. This was evident in your leadership roles from childhood until your very last breath.

    As a mother, I gave you my all, my prayers, my strength and my sleepless nights yet you gave me far more in return. You gave me Honor. You gave me comfort. You gave me the assurance that my
    life’s work in raising you was not in vain.

    The world may call you Dr. Omane Boamah, but to me, you were still that little boy who would run into my arms and call me “Sister Abena” with so much love.

    My heart overflows with gratitude to God for the privilege of being your mother. Dada Fii, tell God how grateful, lucky and privileged I feel that He chose me to be your mom and I hope I made him proud. I would perform this task all over again without hesitation. Sleep well, my son. Until we meet again in the presence of our Lord, you will remain forever in my heart. I hold you with my whole entire heart My Kofi.

  • Tribute to our hero: Children eulogise their late father, Dr Omane Boamah

    Tribute to our hero: Children eulogise their late father, Dr Omane Boamah

    Daddy, We never imagined we would have to say goodbye so soon. You were more than a father to us. You were our safe place, our teacher, our greatest encourager, our friend and above all, our example of what it means to live with integrity, humility, and courage.

    You taught us that success was not just about what we achieved, but about the lives we touched. You lived those words every single day; whether you were serving patients in the hospital, fighting for justice in the corridors of power, or laying on our beds after a long
    day at work for a quick talk which almost always ended up with you asleep.

    Your love was steady, your guidance was gentle, and your laughter
    was the warmth that filled our home. Daddy, even with the weight
    of national duties on your shoulders, you always made time for us.

    You called us every day when you travelled. You never missed our important moments and when you couldn’t be there in person, you made us feel you were right beside us. You reminded us that family is not part of life, it is life.

    You taught us to dream big but stay grounded. You showed us that compassion is a strength, that speaking the truth is an obligation, and that service to others is the greatest clarion call.

    We will miss writing with you, laughing with you, sitting with you whenever you had a lull in your schedule. We will miss talking about our future, hearing your advice, you driving us to school all the time- especially when we had exams.

    Daddy why did you have to leave us so soon? Never in a million years could we have imagined you’d leave us. You lived your life like a race, always trying to do more, love more and share more. We really thought you’d live forever because your light was so bright it could never go out.

    Omane, why have you done this to us? We absolutely cannot believe we will never see you again. Never hold your hand, never sit with you at night and talk, never laugh with you, never see the
    many stickers you always used to send us.

    Who will we call in the middle of the night when no one else is awake and we have questions? Who will have all the answers to our problems? Who will conduct experiments at home just because you knew we would study it that year. Who else would fill the bathtub with our toys and objects just to teach us Archimedes’ principles?

    We have lost greatly, you are irreplaceable Edwardo. We are pained but even in our pain, we choose to hold onto your legacy and take consolation in the fact that you are resting in the bosom of our
    almighty God.

    We will carry forward your values, live with your compassion, and let your light shine through us. Though you are gone from sight, you remain forever in our hearts our father, our friend, our hero. Rest well, Edwardo. Your race is done, but your impact will never end.

  • To My Dear Husband, Kofi B!: Widow’s tribute to the late Dr Omane Boamah

    To My Dear Husband, Kofi B!: Widow’s tribute to the late Dr Omane Boamah

    It is well, it is well

    With my soul, with my soul,

    It is well, it is well

    With my soul.

    Kofi B! as I affectionately called you! We were destined to be together! Though I was not a medical student, fate brought us together on that fateful day, when I boarded the medical school bus.

    Our friendship started and was nothing short of love and adventures. Our night walks from my home to buy kenkey
    and fish and vice versa.

    In our years of marriage, you always asked, “Abena Rita, what will you do when I am not around?” I never answered you and till today I don’t have an answer.

    I always looked forward to visiting you in school so we would embark on our walk to buy kenkey and fish. Thus buying and eating kenkey together became our hallmark. I have no doubt you would be a loving and perfect father of our children.

    In fact, I saw a father in you because you were the exact replica of my father. You also confirmed that when you met my dad the first time. You knew that you had a partner for life. You were truly God sent.

    Your commitment and love was such that when you proposed we got married on my birthday and we have always had a double
    celebration on my birthdays and was hoping the same for this year too.

    When we started having kids, you were nothing short of a wonderful father. You were a great source of hope to me and the
    children. Despite your busy schedule as a Doctor and later in your political roles, you either bathed the children every morning or
    dressed them up while I bathed them.

    You were their favourite teacher, because you knew all their syllabus back to back. You always had a strict time table for
    their studies but made room for play and adventures.

    You were truly a family man, a definition of a genuine person with a pure heart of gold. In our years of marriage, you always asked, “Abena Rita, what will you do when I am not around?” I never answered you and till today I don’t have an answer. I will with God’s help take care of mummy and our three kids, knowing who you are, I
    believe you will be looking down on us to guide us through from the heavens.

    Kofi B! Thank you for loving me, thank you for loving the children, thank you for loving my family and all who came to know you. God be with you till we meet again. Rest in Power my love!

  • Omane Boamah’s life was defined by courage, intellect, and unyielding dedication to justice – NDC

    Omane Boamah’s life was defined by courage, intellect, and unyielding dedication to justice – NDC

    The ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) has paid a heartwarming tribute to the late Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah at the state funeral held at the Black Star Square today, Friday, August 15.

    According to the party, “Dr. Omane Boamah’s life was defined by courage, intellect, and unyielding dedication to justice.”

    The party noted that from his earliest days as a student leader as the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) President, his leadership was already evident.

    “He stood up to the NPP government… and pursued it with relentless vigour. For this, he became a thorn in the side of his political opponents, enduring hostility and pressure with unflinching resolve,” the tribute added.

    Dr Omane Boamah served as the Director of Elections for the NDC. His dedication and hard work helped ensure the return of President John Mahama following the 2024 presidential election.

    “As Director of Elections, he brought unmatched dynamism to the organisation of campaigns, training of polling agents, and election
    monitoring. He mobilised resources, prepared the Party’s grassroots with military precision, and oversaw the work of the Electoral Commission with the vigilance of an eagle.”

    “Brilliant, strategic, and utterly fearless, Dr. Omane Boamah was more than a political strategist, he was a fighter for democracy, a compassionate human being, a man generous in spirit and quick
    to lend a helping hand. His rare blend of intellect, empathy, and resilience made him a treasure to our Party and nation,” the party added.

    The widow, Rite Omane Boamah, wife of the late Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, also eulogised her partner as the country bids farewell to the eight fallen heroes who lost their lives in a helicopter crash on August 6 while on national assignment.

    In a tribute read on her behalf, the widow noted that the late Dr Omane Boamah as a “loving and perfect father.”

    Dr Omane Boamah, who was a doctor and a politician prior to his death, always juggled his work and home responsibilities. He was dedicated to taking care of his home, particularly his three children.

    “Despite your busy schedule, you either bathed the children every morning or dressed them while I bathed them. You were their favourite teacher, knowing their syllabus back to back and making time for both study and play,” she said.

    Prior to his demise, Dr Omane always sought to find out from his wife what she would do should there come a day he is not around.

    “I never answered you, and till today I don’t have an answer,” the widow revealed in her tribute.

    She promised to take care of her late husband’s mother, her mother-in-law and their three children.

    “I will, with God’s help, take care of mummy and our three kids, knowing you will be looking down on us from the heavens. Kofi B, thank you for loving me, thank you for loving the children, thank you for loving my family and all who came to know you. Rest in power, my love,” she added.

  • You were a ‘loving and perfect father, rest in power’ – Dr Omane’s wife

    You were a ‘loving and perfect father, rest in power’ – Dr Omane’s wife

    The widow, Rite Omane Boamah, wife of the late Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, has eulogised her partner as the country bids farewell to the eight fallen heroes who lost their lives in a helicopter crash on August 6 while on national assignment.

    In a tribute read on her behalf at the Black Star Square on August 15, the widow noted that the late Dr Omane Boamah as a “loving and perfect father.”

    Dr Omane Boamah, who was a doctor and a politician prior to his death, always juggled his work and home responsibilities. He was dedicated to taking care of his home, particularly his three children.

    “Despite your busy schedule, you either bathed the children every morning or dressed them while I bathed them. You were their favourite teacher, knowing their syllabus back to back and making time for both study and play,” she said.

    Prior to his demise, Dr Omane always sought to find out from his wife what she would do should there come a day he is not around.

    “I never answered you, and till today I don’t have an answer,” the widow revealed in her tribute.

    She promised to take care of her late husband’s mother, her mother-in-law and their three children.

    “I will, with God’s help, take care of mummy and our three kids, knowing you will be looking down on us from the heavens. Kofi B, thank you for loving me, thank you for loving the children, thank you for loving my family and all who came to know you. Rest in power, my love,” she added.

    The deceased are Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; Squadron Leader Peter Anala of the Ghana Air Force; Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force; and Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.

    Among the eight victims, two Muslims — Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator in charge of Human Security, Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed — were laid to rest earlier, on Sunday, August 10, where Janazah prayers were also held at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra before they were buried at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo.

    At a press conference on Thursday, August 14, the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations provided an outline of how tomorrow’s state ceremony will be carried out. The service categorized into three folds will be conducted by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). 

    “We would have the three burial services, during which period some tributes would be read, and we would have Qu’ran recitations during that period. And the second part would be the main funeral and burial service. The pre-burial will start at 7:30am and will continue to 9:00am.”

    “We expect the Vice President to arrive at the funeral grounds at 8:50am in the morning, and that will be followed by the President at 9:00am, when the state service will begin. The service is programmed to last for approximately three hours, during which period we would take the biographies of the departed eight colleagues, parents, and siblings. After the biography we will take tributes from the widows and then also tributes from the children,” he added.

    Tributes will also be read by senior government officials during the pre-burial period before 9:00am. Following the service, the remains of the other six victims will be taken to the military cemetery for interment at Tse Addo.

    “And there as well, the GAF together with the churches of the six departed comrades, will take charge of the burial ceremony at the military cemetery,” he explained. Mr Dogbey also revealed that arrangements have been made to provide buses to convey the families that would be heading to the military cemetery. 

    “The idea is to reduce the traffic en route to the cemetery and also manage the traffic at the cemetery. And so buses will be provided to the six families, and a few others who would be able to join will join,” he explained.

    The government anticipates a large gathering for Friday’s state funeral. As such, Mr Dobge has entreated all who will make their way to the Black Star Square to behave in a manner that enhances decorum. He revealed measures that are being put in place by the government to ensure an incident-free and lawful state event.

    “Because of the rather large number of people that will be expected tomorrow, a number of measures have been taken to ensure that we have a very solemn ceremony. So for the media that is here, you would have seen the ongoing set up. We are trying our best to provide as many chairs as we can to accommodate the thousands of people that we expect to join the various families and the government officials here for the service.”

    “We are going to label the various canopies appropriately to accommodate those who will be coming. We entreat the public who would want to join us for the service to arrive early and collaborate with the protocol and security officials on ground to assist them to sit. We do not expect people to be crisscrossing the inner perimeter before and during the service. The inner perimeter is going to be locked out to mourners and the mourners are expected to remain under the canopies for the service. When you come in later today or early tomorrow morning, you would notice the labelling that will be on the various canopies indicating where people are supposed to sit.”

    He further confirmed that “there will be a heavy security deployment, obviously not because the president and the vice president are here but also for the safety of all mourners that are going to be here.” Mr Dogbey has urged all and sundry to collaborate with the security detail posted to ensure a successful ceremony.

    “If you are driving in, you will be required to alight at a specific point and walk into the mourning zone and your vehicle can be parked at a designated car park. If you are driving yourself, then you would have to go and park and come and walk into the service area.”

    To the media, the Deputy Chief of Staff encouraged reporters to remain within the designated space provided as only photographers and videographers will be allowed to access the inner perimeter to take coverage.

    “With relation to the media, I believe that a statement was issued earlier by the minister of state for government communication on arrangements that have been made for this service. And media houses and journalists were required to apply for accreditation.

    “Media houses and journalists that applied and have been accordingly accredited are the only ones that will be allowed in the inner perimeter, which is designated as the special media zone for the service. And that accreditation is only for camera holders, video camera holders, and photographers; they are the only ones going to be allowed in the inner perimeter. Reporters and others are not going to be in the perimeter.”

    Thousands of Ghanaians from near and far, as well as international diplomats, are expected to converge at the Black Stars Square to bid farewell to the gallant heroes who made a significant contribution to the development of the country.

  • Order of Service for State Funeral happening today

    Order of Service for State Funeral happening today

    Below is the order of service for the final funeral rites for six out of the eight victims of the Adansi helicopter crash, which are taking place at the Black Star Square.

    The rites are to be held for the fallen heroes who died on board a military helicopter carrying them to Obuasi for an anti-galamsey event on Wednesday, August 6.

    The eight were on a national assignment when they met their untimely death. The deceased are Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; Squadron Leader Peter Anala of the Ghana Air Force; Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force; and Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.

    Among the eight victims, two Muslims — Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator in charge of Human Security, Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed — were laid to rest earlier, on Sunday, August 10, where Janazah prayers were also held at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra before they were buried at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo.

    State Funeral (PRESS)Download
  • American experts to arrive in Ghana soon to aid probe into August 6th helicopter crash – Foreign Minister

    American experts to arrive in Ghana soon to aid probe into August 6th helicopter crash – Foreign Minister

    Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that the relevant authorities in the United States of America have expressed interest in aiding the government of Ghana in getting to the bottom of the Z9 airforce helicopter crash on August 6 that claimed the lives of eight (8) individuals, including Ministers of State.

    Engaging the media on August 14, the Foreign Minister noted that a request was only made after an order by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.

    “I can confirm to you that on the instruction of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, we have formally requested the Americans to come in and assist. We all know that they have considerable expertise when it comes to these matters, and so the indication we have received from the Americans is that they are very much willing to assist.

    The minister added that “we are expecting the arrival of American experts soon to help us with the investigations.”

    Emphazing the need for independent experts, Mr Okudzeto Ablakwa explained that it is to “ensure that the outcome of the investigations will be acceptable to all, so that there will also be confidence in the process.”

    “It is important that this process is done in a very thorough manner, in a manner that will be at par with best practice, the international gold standard. That is what President Mahama wants us to achieve. So I can assure you that our note has long been issued,” he added.

    Investigations to uncover the cause of the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; Squadron Leader Peter Anala of the Ghana Air Force; Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force; Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force, have become imperative due to the many probable causes that have been shared by several school of thoughts.

    There are reports that the helicopter exploded midair, but this has been disputed by eyewitness accounts. As it stands now, it is unknown what led to the demise of the eight individuals—six of whom will be laid to rest on Friday, August 15, at the Black Stars Square after the burial of two others.

    Already, President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders of the airforce helicopter Z9 have been retrieved. He made this known when he addressed the nation on Thursday night, August 7, a day after the tragic incident.

    The Ghana Armed Forces has already begun investigations into the incident, the Deputy Minister for Defence, Brogya Genfi, announced on August 13.

    In his interaction with the media, the Foreign Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa did not indicate the exact institution in the United States that has been engaged.

    In the U.S., the main authority that investigates plane crashes is the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The National Transportation Safety Board is an independent federal agency charged by Congress with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States and significant events in the other modes of transportation—railroad, transit, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space.

    ​​S​​​ince its inception in 1967, the NTSB has investigated more than 153,000 ​​aviation accidents and thousands of surface transportation events. The NTSB investigates accidents and events to determine their probable cause, examine safety issues, and develop recommendations to prevent similar accidents and events in the future. The Board has issued more than 15,500 safety recommendations to more than 2,470 recipients in all transportation modes. The recommended action has been implemented for 82 percent of the over 12,700 recommendations that have been closed.

    In Ghana, the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB) handles the investigation of plane crashes.

    On 6th July, 2020, former President Nana Akufo-Addo granted executive approval for the laying in Parliament of the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Prevention Bureau Bill, 2020, pursuant to which an autonomous Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau shall be established as an institution for the conduct of investigations into aircraft accidents and incidents in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

    According to the AIB, Article 26 of the Chicago Convention requires every State in which an aviation accident occurs to investigate the event. Sequel to this convention, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13 requires that the investigation must be professionally done and devoid of any interferences and biases. 

    The capacity for the investigatory body must not only be legal, but also well structured, resourced and autonomous in its operations and findings. Additionally, in 2019, when ICAO conducted a Validation Mission to test Ghana’s level of Effective Implementation (EI) of ICAO SARPs, Ghana obtained an EI score of 89.89 percent.

    Meanwhile, Deputy Minister Brogya Genfi has assured the general public that all pieces of information discovered as part of investigations into the helicopter crash will be made known. 

    “And so we want to assure you, our Chiefs, that nothing will be covered; it will be transparent, and the public will know exactly what happened in the course of this tragic accident,” he said.

    On the other hand, the Deputy Defence Minister has cautioned against dissemination of unconfirmed reports with regard to the death of the eight individuals involved in the helicopter crash.

    “We also want to caution the media and some analysts who have been churning out misinformation and untruths about this whole incident. All I want to say is that Ghanaians should trust that the Ministry and the Ghana Armed Forces will be diligent in the investigations and transparent about it. Whatever was the cause will be made known to the people of Ghana, and we will take some lessons from that. I don’t want to say anything beyond that.”

    Since 2012, Ghana has recorded four major aircraft accidents and numerous serious incidents involving deaths of persons and damage to property, per reports.

  • Asante Gold completes initial drawdown from $500M financing package, restructures debt with Kinross

    Asante Gold completes initial drawdown from $500M financing package, restructures debt with Kinross

    Asante Gold Corporation has revealed that the company has satisfied the conditions to ensure a first drawdown of the $500 million in financing after signing agreements with Kinross Gold Corporation (Kinross) to support its operations and expansion plans in Ghana.

    The drawdown triggers the release of funds from the company’s bought deal private placement completed on July 7, 2025. That placement involved the sale of 163,300,000 subscription receipts at C$1.45 each, raising gross proceeds of approximately C$237 million. 

    Following the satisfaction of escrow release conditions, the proceeds—minus commissions and expenses—have been released to Asante Gold, and each subscription receipt has automatically converted into one common share. These shares will remain under a statutory four-month hold period, expiring on November 8, 2025.

    The financing package includes a $150 million senior debt facility, a $125 million mezzanine facility, a $50 million gold stream arrangement, and $10 million from a non-brokered private placement. 

    Asante Gold has restructured certain obligations owing to Kinross by paying to Kinross an aggregate of $53M in cash; issuing to Kinross an aggregate of 36,927,650 Common Shares at a deemed issue price of C$1.45 per Common Share, and issuing to Kinross a secured convertible debenture in a principal amount of approximately $80M (the “Convertible Debenture”). 

    In connection with the foregoing, Kinross has also relinquished its existing security interest in the downstream entities that own the Chirano Mine in favour of a security package that is the same as, but subordinate to, that held by Company’s senior lenders. 

    The Common Shares and Convertible Debenture issued to Kinross are subject to a statutory four-month hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws, which will expire on December 13, 2025.

    The company expects the funds to be received in two stages by the end of August 2025. Proceeds will be used to advance development at the Bibiani and Chirano gold mines, settle a cash payment to Kinross Gold Corporation as part of a restructuring deal, retire short-term liabilities, and provide working capital.

    Asante Gold operates the Bibiani and Chirano mines and is advancing exploration at its Kubi project and other prospects in Ghana’s Bibiani and Ashanti gold belts. The senior debt facility consists of a $130 million term loan and a $20 million revolving credit facility, led by FirstRand Bank Limited’s Rand Merchant Bank division with commitments also from Appian Capital Advisory Limited, Ecobank Ghana Plc, and Fidelity Bank Ghana Limited.

    The mezzanine facility includes $75 million from Appian and $50 million from Helikon Investments, with a seven-year maturity and an interest rate of SOFR + 9.75%. The $50 million gold stream involves the sale of a percentage of payable gold from Bibiani and Chirano at 20% of market price for 24 months, after which the percentage changes.

    As part of the financing, Asante has entered a restructuring agreement with Kinross Gold Corporation involving a $53 million cash payment, issuance of 36,927,650 common shares, and an $80 million secured convertible debenture. The financing is expected to close in two stages: about $350 million by August 15, 2025, and the remaining $145 million from the senior debt facility by the end of August 2025.

    Earlier this year, the Asante Gold Corporation announced plans to launch underground mining operations at its Bibiani Gold Mine, with annual gold production projected to exceed 250,000 ounces starting in 2026.

    The company had completed a Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) confirming the technical and financial viability of extending the mine’s lifespan through underground development. “We are pleased to confirm the potential for an underground mine development with an initial life of seven years at Bibiani. This will incorporate 831,000 ounces of gold produced and an attractive all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $1,035 per ounce,” said Dave Anthony, CEO of Asante.

    He further highlighted, “Since Asante acquired the Bibiani property in 2021, we have revitalized the operation and reshaped the business plan. We are on a path to achieving annual production of more than 250,000 ounces in 2026 and beyond, further supported by the commencement of underground mining in Q4 2025 and other growth initiatives that have already advanced. These include the Bibiani-Goaso Highway bypass in June 2024 to facilitate access to additional mineralized material and completion of the new sulphide treatment plant, which is on track for Q2 2025.”

    The DFS, prepared by Bara International with contributions from Middindi Consulting and SLR Consulting, focuses on the underground mining potential beneath the existing Bibiani Main and Walsh pits. The study outlines the mining of 11.93 million tonnes of ore at an average grade of 2.36g/t gold, with underground reserves as of December 31, 2023.

    The estimated initial capital cost stands at $116 million, with projected gold production of 798,000 ounces at an AISC of $1,035 per ounce. The project is expected to generate a post-tax Net Present Value (NPV) of $516 million, assuming a gold price of $2,500 per ounce, with an internal rate of return (IRR) of 71%.

    Key next steps include finalizing the combined open pit and underground mine plan, selecting a mining contractor by Q3 2025, and commencing underground operations in late 2025. The development will be funded through ongoing open-pit mining activities.

    The DFS also details the equipment selection and infrastructure required for the underground expansion. Mining equipment has been chosen to align with the orebody’s geometry, minimizing dilution while maximizing productivity. Lessons from Asante’s nearby Chirano Gold Mine influenced the selection, ensuring standardization across both sites. The study outlines manpower requirements, remuneration, and cost schedules for development and operational phases.

    Ore from the Bibiani underground operations will be processed at the existing Bibiani Process Plant, which was originally designed by Lycopodium in 1997 and refurbished under Asante’s management between 2021 and 2022.

    The plant, which includes a gravity concentration circuit and a reconditioned primary gyratory crusher, currently operates at a throughput rate of 2.4 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa). Further upgrades to the sulfide recovery section are scheduled for completion in Q2 2025, ahead of the start of underground mining.

  • Stringent measures put in place to ensure a successful State funeral on August 15

    Stringent measures put in place to ensure a successful State funeral on August 15

    Deputy Chief of Staff, Stan Dogbey, has disclosed that three hours have been allocated for the state funeral to honour victims of the August 6 helicopter crash, to be held on Friday, August 15, 2025.

    At a press conference on Thursday, August 14, the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations provided an outline of how tomorrow’s state ceremony will be carried out. The service categorized into three folds will be conducted by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). 

    “We would have the three burial services, during which period some tributes would be read, and we would have Qu’ran recitations during that period. And the second part would be the main funeral and burial service. The pre-burial will start at 7:30am and will continue to 9:00am.”

    “We expect the Vice President to arrive at the funeral grounds at 8:50am in the morning, and that will be followed by the President at 9:00am, when the state service will begin. The service is programmed to last for approximately three hours, during which period we would take the biographies of the departed eight colleagues, parents, and siblings. After the biography we will take tributes from the widows and then also tributes from the children,” he added.

    Tributes will also be read by senior government officials during the pre-burial period before 9:00am. Following the service, the remains of the other six victims will be taken to the military cemetery for interment at Tse Addo.

    “And there as well, the GAF together with the churches of the six departed comrades, will take charge of the burial ceremony at the military cemetery,” he explained.

    Mr Dogbey also revealed that arrangements have been made to provide buses to convey the families that would be heading to the military cemetery. 

    “The idea is to reduce the traffic en route to the cemetery and also manage the traffic at the cemetery. And so buses will be provided to the six families, and a few others who would be able to join will join,” he explained.

    The government anticipates a large gathering for Friday’s state funeral. As such, Mr Dobge has entreated all who will make their way to the Black Star Square to behave in a manner that enhances decorum. He revealed measures that are being put in place by the government to ensure an incident-free and lawful state event.

    “Because of the rather large number of people that will be expected tomorrow, a number of measures have been taken to ensure that we have a very solemn ceremony. So for the media that is here, you would have seen the ongoing set up. We are trying our best to provide as many chairs as we can to accommodate the thousands of people that we expect to join the various families and the government officials here for the service.”

    “We are going to label the various canopies appropriately to accommodate those who will be coming. We entreat the public who would want to join us for the service to arrive early and collaborate with the protocol and security officials on ground to assist them to sit. We do not expect people to be crisscrossing the inner perimeter before and during the service. The inner perimeter is going to be locked out to mourners and the mourners are expected to remain under the canopies for the service. When you come in later today or early tomorrow morning, you would notice the labelling that will be on the various canopies indicating where people are supposed to sit.”

    He further confirmed that “there will be a heavy security deployment, obviously not because the president and the vice president are here but also for the safety of all mourners that are going to be here.”

    Mr Dogbey has urged all and sundry to collaborate with the security detail posted to ensure a successful ceremony.

    “If you are driving in, you will be required to alight at a specific point and walk into the mourning zone and your vehicle can be parked at a designated car park. If you are driving yourself, then you would have to go and park and come and walk into the service area.”

    To the media, the Deputy Chief of Staff, encouraged reporters to remain within the designated space provided as only photographers and videographers will be allowed to access the inner perimeter to take coverage.

    “With relation to the media, I believe that a statement was issued earlier by the minister of state for government communication on arrangements that have been made for this service. And media houses and journalists were required to apply for accreditation.

    “Media houses and journalists that applied and have been accordingly accredited are the only ones that will be allowed in the inner perimeter, which is designated as the special media zone for the service. And that accreditation is only for camera holders, video camera holders, and photographers; they are the only ones going to be allowed in the inner perimeter. Reporters and others are not going to be in the perimeter.”

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off on August 6th morning at 0912 hrs from Accra and headed for Obuasi, was off the radar. Hours later, the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah confirmed the unfortunate demise of the 8 individuals comprising three crew and five passengers.

    The deceased  are Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; Squadron Leader Peter Anala of the Ghana Air Force; Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force; Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.

    As part of the 3-day national mourning, the “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” took place at the Forecourt of the State House on Saturday, August 9. The event was opened to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed.

    On the first day of mourning, which began Thursday, August 7, a public laying of flowers and lighting of candles at the Ceremonial Garden at the front of the Presidency took place to honour victims of the tragic GAF helicopter crash. Members of the public, families, and friends were present. President John Dramani Mahama and the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah shed tears while laying a wreath in honour of the eight victims.

    The public laying of flowers and lighting of candles at the Ceremonial Garden at the front of the Presidency to honour victims of the tragic GAF helicopter crash continued on August 8. It was held at the Ceremonial Garden, Presidency. This provided more time and space for citizens unable to attend Day 1 to pay their respects and join the national act of mourning.

    Last week, the samples of the remains of the deceased involved in the tragic Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on August 6 were transported to South Africa for DNA analysis to aid in their identification.

    Per reports, the autopsy and identification procedures were to have been carried out by the 37 Military Hospital; however, the conditions of the bodies have called for advanced forensic processes.

    Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna—two out of the eight who perished in the August 6 helicopter crash—have been buried in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices. They were buried following the arrival of the DNA results on Saturday, August 9

    On Sunday, August 10, Muslim Jannaza prayers were offered at the forecourt of State House. Following that, the deceased were buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra. The Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, led the prayers.

    President John Dramani Mahama and Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin attended the prayers, which were also attended by Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, religious leaders, and institutional heads, among many other Ghanaians.

    At the burial site, President Mahama used the opportunity to thank all who were present and showed their sympathy to the family and country as a whole. He also expressed gratitude to the family for their patience in ensuring the DNA tests are carried out to aid the identification of the two deceased. 

    “Today is not a day for talking; I want to thank you for your sympathy. I want to thank the two families for their patience. I want to thank the family for accepting my decision for the two brothers to be buried here. The families are free to visit anytime they want to do so,” he added.

    Minister for Health Minister Akandoh and the Inspector General of Police, COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, on Sunday, August 10, received the DNA results for the remaining six deceased in the August 6 helicopter crash.

    They received the results at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA). Engaging the media, the Health Minister noted that the results have been received earlier due to the expedited efforts put in by the government.

    The government is set to create a special fund to support the children of the victims of the August 6th Adansi helicopter crash incident.

    President John Dramani Mahama made the announcement during an address on Tuesday, August 12, at Adenta, while attending the funeral rites for the late Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, one of the victims.

    President Mahama emphasized the need to protect the children of the 8 fallen heroes who lost their lives while on a national assignment.

    Probing of helicopter crash

    Deputy Minister for Defence, Brogya Genfi, has indicated that the government of Ghana has formally requested international support in its quest to ascertain the cause of the airforce helicopter Z9.

    Engaging the media on August 13, he stated that “We have requested international collaboration and have received a positive response.” “We also want to assure you that the Ghana Armed Forces has already begun investigations into the incident,” the Deputy Minister announced.

    Brogya Genfi has assured the general public that all pieces of information discovered as part of investigations will be made known.

    “And so we want to assure you, our Chiefs, that nothing will be covered; it will be transparent, and the public will know exactly what happened in the course of this tragic accident,” he said.

    On the other hand, the Deputy Defence Minister has cautioned against dissemination of unconfirmed reports with regard to the death of the eight individuals involved in the helicopter crash.

    “We also want to caution the media and some analysts who have been churning out misinformation and untruths about this whole incident. All I want to say is that Ghanaians should trust that the Ministry and the Ghana Armed Forces will be diligent in the investigations and transparent about it. Whatever was the cause will be made known to the people of Ghana, and we will take some lessons from that. I don’t want to say anything beyond that.”

  • Why customers won’t be able to access MTN’s Mobile Money services on August 17 for 6 hours

    Why customers won’t be able to access MTN’s Mobile Money services on August 17 for 6 hours

    Customers of MTN Ghana will, from 12 midnight to 6am on Sunday, August 17, be unable to access the telecommunication giant’s mobile money services.

    Engaging the media, Chief Technology & Service Delivery Officer of Mobile Money Limited, Charles Asamoah Assah, explained that this would be so due to a planned system upgrade.

    “This upgrade is to improve our services to you. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your understanding,” Charles Asamoah Assah stated.

    A month ago, approximately 12 hours after MTN announced a service downtime that affected customers’ ability to purchase the renewed data packages, a formal statement revealed that the disruption had been resolved.

    The telco, in an official statement, revealed that it has restored its service, assuring customers that they can now purchase their data with the additional 15% volume.

    In the statement, which read, “MTN is pleased to inform our cherished customers that we have restored our data bundle purchase channels.” MTN said that customers could access their channels to purchase their desired data.

    “As of 11 pm today, 1st July 2025, customers can purchase data bundles to receive the 15% additional volume of data via the following channels:*138#, *170#, *567#” parts of the statement shared.

    However, it urged customers to note that data purchases via the MoMo app remained temporarily unavailable.

    There was a barrage of bitter complaints from MTN users on X over the inaccessibility of the telco’s data package purchasing channels.

    Around 7 am, a user on X (formerly Twitter) complained that she was receiving feedback such as ‘the service is being upgraded; try again after 7 AM.’

    Other users also expressed doubt about the genuineness of MTN’s claims of experiencing technical issues.

    They asserted that it was a deliberate attempt by the telcos to miss the Communications Minister, Sam George’s, timeline of effecting the 15% increase in data volume.

    Some drew comparisons between other telcos, such as Telecel and AT, which are supposedly ‘smaller’ in terms of dominance, to have been able to prepare for the changes.

    Effective July 1, telecommunication companies reviewed the amount of data provided for their bundle packages.

    Airtel Tigo (AT) and Telecel increased their data offers by over 10%, whereas MTN reviewed their data offers by 15%.

    AT’s GHC400 data package, providing 195 GB now offers 236 GB. Telecel’s GHC400 data package is now worth 250 GB and not 190 GB effective next month.

    MTN has reintroduced its GHC399 data package and offers 214GB and ceased providing 92.88GB for GHC350.

    The Ministry of Communication and Digital Innovations earlier assured Ghanaians of reducing the cost of data by the end of 2025.

    A committee that was set up in February had developed a roadmap meant to drive plans for data reduction.

    The Communications Minister has arranged for cheaper data bundles on five national holidays in the year. These selected holidays are Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founders’ Day, and Farmers’ Day.

    According to him, the initial plan was to offer discounted packages on all 18 public holidays in the year, but this proved unfeasible as telecommunications companies pushed back against the proposal.

    Nonetheless, Ghanaians enjoyed discounted data bundles for the first time on a public holiday, starting with March 6th (Independence Day).

    A similar offer was made on May 1 (May Day), and the public is assured of enjoying the same benefit for the three remaining selected holidays ahead in the year.

    Meanwhile, Samuel Nartey George has vowed to impose financial penalties on Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) that fail to meet service quality standards before the end of the year.

    According to Mr George, 40 percent of the fines imposed on telecom companies that fail to provide quality services will be used to provide data or call-time bonuses to affected customers.

    A nationwide service quality test, covering all district capitals, is expected to be conducted by the NCA in the third quarter of 2025. Based on its findings, the government will take “decisive action” if no significant improvements are seen.

    With regard to the spectrum rollout, the minister noted that “the Ghanaian people must feel the impact by the end of this year.”

    “We know you can’t complete upgrades in three months, but we must see that the process has begun,” he added, providing a short-term deadline of June 30.

  • We can’t mourn our heroes and efficiently, happily perform our duties – A-G on stalled prosecution

    We can’t mourn our heroes and efficiently, happily perform our duties – A-G on stalled prosecution

    Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has noted that his outfit has been unable to push hard on prosecution for about a week now due to the shock and grief that has hit the ministry following the devastating Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter crash.

    Engaging the media, he acknowledged that personally, he has been hit hard due to his closeness with three of the eight victims. He noted that their death has hit the country hard and has left all Ghanaians saddened.

    He said, “the entire country has been impacted by this disaster, and the Ministry of Justice is an integral part of the society. So, we have also been negatively impacted. Personally, I was very close to the three top officials and I’m sure you saw me, break down when I was asked to say something about the late Murtala Mohammed.”

    “It is something that has impacted the entire nation. It has slowed down work as it is understandably the case, because we cannot be mourning our heroes and at the same time be efficiently and happily performing our duties. So, it has impacted us negatively.”

    Last week, Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine broke down in tears at the residence of Environment Minister Hon. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala while engaging the media.

    https://www.facebook.com/watch?v=4122668064677407

    In his submission, the Attorney-General further expressed hope that the demise of the eight individuals will enhance the commitment of Ghanaians to rid the country of illegal mining activities that keep destroying the environment and leading to loss of lives and properties.

    “God will make a way, that is what I always believe. This country will rise up and then do what the falling heroes were required to do as public officers because they died in the line of duty. The reason they were going for this ceremony was to make lives better for the people of this country.”

    “The illegal mining has polluted our rivers, and destroyed the environment. It has made life unbearable for communities living in and around mining areas, and sustainable mining is one of the things that we can do to develop this country. The president is committed to it. The public officers who were going for this ceremony were committed to it and they were working very hard to ensure that we have a system of sustainable mining that will at the same time give us wealth without destroying the environment that produces the wealth,” he added.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off on August 6th morning at 0912 hrs from Accra and headed for Obuasi, was off the radar.

    Hours later, the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah confirmed the unfortunate demise of the 8 individuals comprising three crew and five passengers.

    The deceased  are Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; Squadron Leader Peter Anala of the Ghana Air Force; Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu of the Ghana Air Force; Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.

    As part of the 3-day national mourning, the “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” took place at the Forecourt of the State House on Saturday, August 9. The event was opened to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed.

    On the first day of mourning, which began Thursday, August 7, a public laying of flowers and lighting of candles at the Ceremonial Garden at the front of the Presidency took place to honour victims of the tragic GAF helicopter crash. Members of the public, families, and friends were present. President John Dramani Mahama and the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah shed tears while laying a wreath in honour of the eight victims.

    The public laying of flowers and lighting of candles at the Ceremonial Garden at the front of the Presidency to honour victims of the tragic GAF helicopter crash continued on August 8. It was held at the Ceremonial Garden, Presidency. This provided more time and space for citizens unable to attend Day 1 to pay their respects and join the national act of mourning.

    Last week, the samples of the remains of the deceased involved in the tragic Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on August 6 were transported to South Africa for DNA analysis to aid in their identification.

    Per reports, the autopsy and identification procedures were to have been carried out by the 37 Military Hospital; however, the conditions of the bodies have called for advanced forensic processes.

    Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna—two out of the eight who perished in the August 6 helicopter crash—have been buried in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices. They were buried following the arrival of the DNA results on Saturday, August 9

    On Sunday, August 10, Muslim Jannaza prayers were offered at the forecourt of State House. Following that, the deceased were buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra. The Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, led the prayers.

    President John Dramani Mahama and Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin attended the prayers, which were also attended by Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, religious leaders, and institutional heads, among many other Ghanaians.

    At the burial site, President Mahama used the opportunity to thank all who were present and showed their sympathy to the family and country as a whole. He also expressed gratitude to the family for their patience in ensuring the DNA tests are carried out to aid the identification of the two deceased. 

    “Today is not a day for talking; I want to thank you for your sympathy. I want to thank the two families for their patience. I want to thank the family for accepting my decision for the two brothers to be buried here. The families are free to visit anytime they want to do so,” he added.

    Minister for Health Minister Akandoh and the Inspector General of Police, COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, on Sunday, August 10, received the DNA results for the remaining six deceased in the August 6 helicopter crash.

    They received the results at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA). Engaging the media, the Health Minister noted that the results have been received earlier due to the expedited efforts put in by the government.

    The government is set to create a special fund to support the children of the victims of the August 6th Adansi helicopter crash incident.

    President John Dramani Mahama made the announcement during an address on Tuesday, August 12, at Adenta, while attending the funeral rites for the late Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, one of the victims.

    President Mahama emphasized the need to protect the children of the 8 fallen heroes who lost their lives while on a national assignment.

    Probing of helicopter crash

    Deputy Minister for Defence, Brogya Genfi, has indicated that the government of Ghana has formally requested international support in its quest to ascertain the cause of the airforce helicopter Z9.

    Engaging the media on August 13, he stated that “We have requested international collaboration and have received a positive response.” “We also want to assure you that the Ghana Armed Forces has already begun investigations into the incident,” the Deputy Minister announced.

    Brogya Genfi has assured the general public that all pieces of information discovered as part of investigations will be made known.

    “And so we want to assure you, our Chiefs, that nothing will be covered; it will be transparent, and the public will know exactly what happened in the course of this tragic accident,” he said.

    On the other hand, the Deputy Defence Minister has cautioned against dissemination of unconfirmed reports with regard to the death of the eight individuals involved in the helicopter crash.

    “We also want to caution the media and some analysts who have been churning out misinformation and untruths about this whole incident. All I want to say is that Ghanaians should trust that the Ministry and the Ghana Armed Forces will be diligent in the investigations and transparent about it. Whatever was the cause will be made known to the people of Ghana, and we will take some lessons from that. I don’t want to say anything beyond that.”