TIG Post

Author: Andy Ogbarmey-Tettey

  • NPP activist Daniel Adomako arrested over probe into illegal possession, display of weapons

    NPP activist Daniel Adomako arrested over probe into illegal possession, display of weapons

    The Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with other security agencies, on Wednesday arrested Mr. Daniel Adomako, known on social media as ‘Sir Obama Pokuase’, as part of ongoing intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling networks involved in the illegal possession and display of sophisticated weapons. 

    According to the Service in a statement, the suspect is assisting investigations into some images and videos he circulated on social media depicting individuals openly brandishing these illegally acquired sophisticated weapons.

    The Ghana Police Service has beefed up its efforts to tackle the illegal possession of weapons and firearms by civilians.

    An intelligence-led operation was conducted by a joint police and military team on August 1, after intelligence that some individuals believed to be involved in recent violent rioting activities in Nkwanta and its immediate environs were in possession of firearms and ammunition.

    A thorough search of the premises led to the retrieval of two (2) single-barrel guns and four (4) AAA ammunition from the room of suspect Francis Donkor, 50, who was promptly arrested, escorted to the Police Station, and is currently in custody assisting with ongoing investigations.

    The area was cordoned off to ensure the safety of all parties and to prevent any escape.

    The retrieved exhibits (two single-barrel guns and four AAA ammunition) have been retained as evidence to support the investigation and possible prosecution.

    The Ghana Police Service has noted that it remains committed to maintaining peace and public safety and strongly cautions the public against unlawful possession and use of firearms.

    Established by an Act of Parliament in 2007, the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA’s) mandate includes regulating the possession and control of small arms and light weapons, with a particular focus on curbing illegal production, trade, transfer, and cross-border movement of such weapons that contribute to crime and insecurity.

    A 2019 KAIPTC report revealed that 2.3 million small arms are in civilian hands, with over 1.1 million unaccounted for.

    Last year, the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) announced plans to conduct a nationwide firearms survey before the end of the year. However, reports suggest the survey did not take place as stated.

    Speaking to The Independent Ghana, the Deputy Director in charge of Policy Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Gyebi Asante, indicated that this will be the third research of its kind since NACSA’s inception. He noted that the survey aims to gather vital data on firearm ownership, usage, and proliferation across the country.

    Mr. Asante stressed that the unchecked spread of small arms and light weapons is a serious threat to public safety, as it fuels criminal activities and armed conflicts and undermines efforts to maintain peace and security.

    On July 9, the Anti-Armed Robbery Unit of the Ashanti Regional Police Command arrested two individuals for unlawful possession of firearms. This followed an intelligence-led operation carried out in the early hours of Tuesday, July 9.

    The targeted operation, conducted at known hideouts in Nweneso, Trabuom, and Nkwawie, resulted in the arrest of Acheampong Kwadwo (21) and James Antwi Adjei (24).

    A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of two pump-action shotguns: one with serial number ASAO 2164 2021 and one without a serial number.

    Both firearms are suspected to be stolen and were possibly intended for use in robbery operations across the Atwima Districts and the Greater Kumasi area.

    The suspects are currently in police custody and assisting with ongoing investigations. 

    The recovered firearms have been retained as exhibits for evidential purposes. 

    The police noted that further updates will be communicated in due course as investigations progress.

    In February this year, U.S. Army Major Kojo Owusu Dartey was sentenced to 70 months in prison and three years of supervised release for smuggling firearms to Ghana and making false statements to federal authorities.

    The 42-year-old, based at Fort Liberty, was found guilty by a jury on April 23, 2024, on charges including conspiracy, illegal firearm dealing, false declarations in court, and exporting firearms without a license.

    According to court records and trial evidence, Dartey orchestrated a firearms smuggling operation by purchasing seven firearms in North Carolina and instructing a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to buy three more and send them to him. 

    He then concealed the weapons inside blue barrels filled with rice and household goods before working with an Army Chief Warrant Officer to smuggle them through the Port of Baltimore, Maryland. 

    The barrels were shipped to the Port of Tema, Ghana, where Ghanaian authorities later seized them and alerted the DEA attaché in Ghana and the ATF Baltimore Field Division.

    Dartey was also linked to a 16-defendant marriage fraud scheme involving soldiers at Fort Liberty and foreign nationals from Ghana. He provided information that led to its prosecution but later lied to federal law enforcement and under oath in court about his relationship with a defense witness during the U.S. v. Agyapong trial between June 28 and July 2, 2021.

    His sentencing was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Daniel Bubar, following an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel J. Diaz prosecuted the case.

    The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has bemoaned the influx of unregistered arms and ammunition in the country.

    During a working visit to the Northern Region on Wednesday, May 21, the minister noted that the current trend threatens national security.

    “Let us see you abiding by the laws of our country. It’s the only way you will be able to help. The number of arms in the hands of our citizens is getting to an alarming level. It’s giving the Peace Council, police, and other security agencies a lot of headaches. At the least provocation, you hear a gunshot. How did the people get the guns?” he asked.

    The minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Asawase, called for a united effort to free the country from illegal arms.

    “We have to get private people to partner with the government. The government alone cannot do it. Now technology is so easy that we should be able to use technology to detect who imports and sells the guns. What can we use technology to make our country safe?”

    A 16-year-old form two student of Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School (OKESS) has been arrested by the Tafo Pankrono Divisional Police Command for illegally possessing a locally manufactured firearm.

    The police arrested the suspect following a routine dormitory search by school authorities on Wednesday, May 14.

    According to the accused, the weapon belonged to his stepfather, Mr. Daniel Owusu Baafi, who has been apprehended.

    The Oguaa Traditional Council, on Monday, imposed a fine of GH¢30,000, three male white sheep and a carton of schnapps on Ato Trustworthy, a radio presenter with Elmina-based Ahomka FM, for making a misguided statement against the Council.

    According to the Council, Mr Trustworthy would have to carry a sheep around his neck from the Oguaa Akoto monument near London Bridge through Kingsway to the Oguaamanhen’s house (Efiekesem) and finally to Emintsimadze Palace, where traditional rites would be performed to appease the gods.

    Additionally, Mr Trustworthy is expected to within 14 days, issue an unequivocal apology to the Council and the people of Cape Coast for bringing the name of the Oguaamanhen, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, the Traditional Council and the entire people of Oguaa into disrepute.

    On Monday, the Council rescinded its decision not to accept his apology following insistent pleas by Mr Trustworthy’s team, led by Rev Father Joojo Gyepi-Garbrah of the Christ Church Anglican Cathedral in Cape Coast.

    Nana Benya, the Linguist, announced the Council’s decision after a 45 minutes deliberation amidst incessant pleas.

    The Council, had rejected his apology about a fortnight ago when he appeared before them.

    It would be recalled that Mr Trustworthy in a viral TikTok video, made disparaging comments, after an incident at the opening of PANAFEST 2025 celebration when the Asafo Companies in Oguaa reportedly denied Nana Kwodwo Condua VI, the Omanhen of the Edina Traditional Area entry to the durbar grounds at the Victoria Park in Cape Coast.

    According to a source, Osabarimba Kwesi Atra as the host, should be the last to arrive at the durbar grounds, however, Nana Condua came after him in a palanquin and was asked to disembark and walk to the grounds but he refused and went back.

    Commenting on the issue in a video, Mr Trustworthy amidst other derogatory comments, referred to the Omanhen of Edina and Omanhen of Oguaa as “two small boys,” a remark seen as highly disrespectful by the Council and all well meaning people.

    Mr Trustworthy had sometime back, made similar misguided utterances, about the Council but was cautioned and his apology was accepted.

    The Council said it was very determined to stop such conducts moving forward, adding that Mr Trustworthy’s predicaments should serve as a powerful reminder to all media practitioners to exercise utmost respect and responsibility in their utterances, particularly when addressing revered traditional authorities and sacred cultural events.

    “Let all journalists be guided by integrity, accuracy, and respect in their reporting to preserve the dignity of our traditions and communities,” the Council said.

    Mr Trustworthy, visibly humbled, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to make amends and pledged to fulfil the directives accordingly.

    The Omanhen of Oguaa Traditional Area though did not sit in the deliberation, in a remark thereafter, emphasised the importance of upholding cultural values and respect for traditional authority, particularly from individuals in the media space who wield public influence.

    “My palace is a place of peace and reconciliation. We welcome Ato Trustworthy’s remorse, but tradition must be followed for peace to prevail,” said Osabarimba.

    On Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Tufohen of the Oguaa Traditional Area, Nana Kwame Edu VI, at a press conference, described the breach of protocol during the July 26 durbar as “regrettable and avoidable.”

    He emphasised that PANAFEST was not merely a festival but a sacred occasion to honour their ancestors and promote unity.

    Nana Edu explained that customary in Akan and coastal traditions demanded that the host Omanhen should be the last to arrive at a grand durbar, symbolising his role as Commander-in-Chief.

  • Police arrest 3 for death threat, publication of false news following August 6 helicopter crash

    Police arrest 3 for death threat, publication of false news following August 6 helicopter crash

    The Ghana Police Service has apprehended another suspect as part of its investigation into a viral TikTok video where the lives of President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama were threatened.

    Two suspects, Prince Ofori and Yayra Abiwu, were arrested earlier, are in police custody and assisting with investigation. Emmanuel Kwakye is currently the third suspect. Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other persons believed to be connected to the video.

    The lives of the first family were threatened after the Adansi Akrofuom helicopter crash on August 6, which claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two Ministers of State.

    In one of the videos, Yayra Abiwu accused the president of having a hand in the crash and threatened to end his life before the end of the year. 

    The Police Service has reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens by rooting out criminal elements and preventing the proliferation of illegal arms.

    “We urge the public to continue providing credible information to assist us in these crucial operations. Further updates will be provided as investigations progress, strictly adhering to due process,” the Police noted in a statement.

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has condemned such comments and distanced itself from such individuals.

    “The NPP would never wish death on anyone, not even a worst enemy. These kinds of remarks are unhealthy for our democracy. Death is something that not even your worst enemy would wish upon you.”

    “Some are claiming that the NPP is behind these events, while others have gone so far as to say they expected more people to have died. Such remarks are dangerous and must be condemned by all well-meaning Ghanaians,” General Secretary of the party, Justin Frimpong Kodua, said.

    As it stands, the cause of the August 6 helicopter crash is yet to be made known to the public. The security agencies are still probing the unfortunate incident and have assured the general public of releasing new details upon conclusion of their investigations.

    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 crash that occurred on August 6.

    Engaging the media today, 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.”

    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.

  • We don’t even wish death for our worst enemy – NPP condemns threats against Mahama, others

    We don’t even wish death for our worst enemy – NPP condemns threats against Mahama, others

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has condemned threatening comments against President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama over the August 6 helicopter crash incident and has distanced itself from such individuals.

    “The NPP would never wish death on anyone, not even a worst enemy. These kinds of remarks are unhealthy for our democracy. Death is something that not even your worst enemy would wish upon you.”

    “Some are claiming that the NPP is behind these events, while others have gone so far as to say they expected more people to have died. Such remarks are dangerous and must be condemned by all well-meaning Ghanaians,” General Secretary of the party, Justin Frimpong Kodua, said on August 13.

    The Ghana Police Service has apprehended another suspect as part of its investigation into a viral TikTok video where the lives of President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama were threatened.

    Two suspects, Prince Ofori and Yayra Abiwu, were arrested earlier, are in police custody and assisting with investigation. Emmanuel Kwakye is currently the third suspect. Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other persons believed to be connected to the video.

    The lives of the first family were threatened after the Adansi Akrofuom helicopter crash on August 6, which claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two Ministers of State.

    In one of the videos, Yayra Abiwu accused the president of having a hand in the crash and threatened to end his life before the end of the year. 

    The Police Service has reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens by rooting out criminal elements and preventing the proliferation of illegal arms.

    “We urge the public to continue providing credible information to assist us in these crucial operations. Further updates will be provided as investigations progress, strictly adhering to due process,” the Police noted in a statement.

    As it stands, the cause of the August 6 helicopter crash is yet to be made known to the public. The security agencies are still probing the unfortunate incident and have assured the general public of releasing new details upon conclusion of their investigations.

    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 crash that occurred on August 6.

    Engaging the media today, 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.”

    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.

  • Govt requests international collaboration to probe August 6 helicopter crash

    Govt requests international collaboration to probe August 6 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 crash that occurred on August 6.

    Engaging the media today, 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.”

    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.

  • Manhyia Palace bans funerals scheduled for August 21 over Asantehema’s one-week observation

    Manhyia Palace bans funerals scheduled for August 21 over Asantehema’s one-week observation

    The Manhyia Palace has announced a ban on all funerals across the Ashanti Kingdom on August 21 to allow the Royal Family to duly observe the Asantehemaa’s one-week observance.

    In a statement shared by the kingdom’s Chief Justice on August 12, on behalf of the king and overlord of the kingdom, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the general public was informed to desist from holding any funeral on the scheduled date earmarked for the Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu’s funeral.

    “Manhyia Palace announces for the information of the general public that there will be a ban on all funerals across Asanteman on Thursday, August 21, 2025, to allow Asantehene and Asanteman to observe the One Week Celebration of Asantehemaa”, parts of the statement directed.

    The “One Week Celebration” will be observed on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Bogyawe, Manhyia Palace, from 12 noon to 6:00 p.m.

    His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on Monday, August 11, officially informed the Asanteman Council of the demise of Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa, who passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the age of 98 years.

    Paramount, divisional, and sub-chiefs from across the Ashanti Kingdom assembled at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the meeting, which was earlier announced in a statement on August 7.

    After eight years of dedicated service to the Ashanti Kingdom, mourners from across Ghana and beyond are expected to gather to pay their last respects to the Asante monarch.

    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.

    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 enskinned as queenmother following the death of her mother, Nana Konadu Yiadom III. She died on November 15, 2016, at the age of 109, after reigning for 39 years as Asantehemaa.

    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 recognised 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 she made a generous donation to the Mother-Baby Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

  • AEMG concludes drilling phase of MRE for iron ore in Oti Region

    AEMG concludes drilling phase of MRE for iron ore in Oti Region

    The Africa Exploration and Minerals Group Limited (AEMG), a Ghanaian exploration company, has concluded the drilling phase of the country’s first-ever Mineral Resource Estimation (MRE) for iron ore, conducted at the Gyamurume Iron Ore Block in the Oti Region.

    This initiative, financed by Republic Bank (Ghana) PLC is a part of the country’s quest to unlock its iron and steel potential. At an official site visit and closing ceremony, held in Asato and on-site at the drilling camp, Dr. Benjamin Dzoboku, Managing Director, Republic Bank (Ghana), reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the entire mining value chain, following the bank’s asset position of over $19.5 billion as of June 2025.

    “This project is not only data-driven but future-shaping, setting the tone for Ghana’s emergence as a credible player in the global iron and steel value chain. While others stepped back, Republic Bank stepped forward because we believe in Ghana, in African enterprise, and transformative development through strategic finance,” he said.

    “We will continue to champion responsible mining services that satisfy the Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action), exploration ventures, and the broader extractives sector with the same passion and belief,” Dr. Dzoboku added.

    Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Africa Exploration and Minerals Group Limited, Mr. Isaac Obeng Darko, expressed deep appreciation to Republic Bank, saying, “This is a historic moment, not just for AEMG, but for Ghana. Republic Bank will forever be remembered as the first and only bank to back this groundbreaking iron ore exploration project.” 

    AEMG’s Commercial Manager, Mr. Stephen Amoako, further disclosed that although iron ore was the primary exploration target, initial technical results indicate multiple high-value discoveries, the full extent of which will be verified after sample analysis by Intertek Minerals. Intertek’s team also assured stakeholders of strict quality control and a quick turnaround time in delivering the results.

    Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), Honourable Philip Oppong Amponsah, who represented the government, lauded AEMG for the milestone. He indicated that the Oti Region is poised to become Ghana’s leading iron ore hub, cementing its place on the global mining map.

    AEMG Project Consultant, Professor Frank Nyame, who spoke on behalf of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA), emphasized that the project had been executed with 100% local content—highlighting national capacity and self-reliance in technical exploration.

    Professor Nyame noted that the youth of Gyamurume will be presented job opportunities as the project scales. He called for academic dedication and vocational preparedness to ensure local participation in the future iron and steel ecosystem.

    District Chief Executive (DCE) of Kedjebi, Dr. Sam Suruj Issaka, pledged local government support, anticipating socio-economic upliftment through employment, infrastructure, and increased regional investment.

    The event concluded with the official handover of the final drill core samples to Intertek Minerals, marking the transition into the next phase of analysis and resource validation.

    The delegation that attended the closing ceremony included Osaberima Osei Bonsu, Asatohene, Togbega Gabusu VII, Paramount Chief of Hohoe, Dr. Sam Suraj Issaka, Kedjebi District Chief Executive, Honorable Philip Oppong Amponsah, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), representatives from the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA), Intertek Minirals, SRK Ghana, the Minerals Commission (MINCOM), the Kedjebi District Assembly, traditional rulers, Mr. Isaac Obeng Darko, Chief Executive Officer of AEMG, Mr. Samuel Frimpong, Chief Operating Officer and Director Operations, AEMG, Mr. Stephen Amoako, Commercial Manager, AEMG, Mr. Jacob Hobenu, Head Corporate Banking, Republic Bank (Ghana) PLC and the Managing Director of Republic Bank (Ghana) PLC, Dr. Benjamin Dzoboku.

    In 2022, the Oti Region discovered some iron ore resources. Former Oti Regional Minister Joshua Makuba noted that iron ore deposits were found in the Guan, Biakoye, Jasikan, Kajebi and Krachi districts. He revealed that the mining of ore would begin in 2023.

    In that same period, the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) indicated the iron ore deposits discovered at Akokrowa, a farming community in the Oti Region, are of the highest grade. Then-Chief Executive Officer of the GGSA, Dr. Daniel Boamah, stated that the iron ore was graded 55.22 weight percent. He noted that the government was determined to add value to the raw commodity, saying that the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development (GIISDEC) would work closely with the GGSA and the community to provide a full value chain.

    Ghana currently holds about 1.7 billion tonnes of iron ore reserves, including the Shieni deposit (1.3 billion tonnes at 33.8% Fe) and the Opon-Mansi deposit (147 million tonnes at 52.5% Fe). A US$600 million mining operation at Shieni is scheduled to begin in late 2025, with the goal of reducing annual steel imports valued at around US$900 million. 

    The broader national plan is to start domestic processing of iron ore by 2027, focusing on value addition and job creation.

  • Health Ministry hosts validation meeting for sickle cell disease screening and case management guidelines

    Health Ministry hosts validation meeting for sickle cell disease screening and case management guidelines

    The Ministry of Health, with support from the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), on Monday, August 11, convened a national stakeholder validation meeting to review and validate the Draft National Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Screening and Case Management Guidelines. 

    The draft guidelines, developed through months of technical consultations with the Sickle Cell Disease Technical Working Group, outline a coordinated, tiered approach to early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care. This includes newborn screening, genetic counselling, hydroxyurea therapy, management of acute complications, and strong referral and monitoring systems.

    Dr. Ignatius Awinibuno, Director of Allied Health, highlighted the urgent need to strengthen Sickle Cell Disease prevention and care, noting that Ghana records between 15,000 and 20,000 new SCD births annually. 

    He emphasized that the guidelines would provide an evidence-based, context-specific, and equitable framework to ensure no patient is left behind. Speaking on behalf of the Director General and the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of the Public Health Division, reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to integrating and prioritizing SCD services in the health services delivery and urged stakeholders to share inputs that will make the guidelines practical and impactful. 

    On behalf of the Country Director of CHAI, Ms. Pelumi Okuyemi reiterated the organization’s technical assistance support in developing the guidelines and its commitment to working with the Ministry and GHS to ensure effective and wider SCD care and management.

    Participants engaged in guided review sessions, group work, and plenary discussions to ensure the final guidelines are operationally feasible, globally aligned, and tailored to Ghana’s health system.

    The meeting was chaired by Professor Alex Osei Akoto, Associate Professor at the Department of Child Health, KNUST-SMS, and Head of the Sickle Cell Disease Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

    Sickle-cell disease (SCD) is a group of autosomal recessive haemoglobin disorders that results from a gene mutation in the β-subunit of haemoglobin.

    According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is a common inherited condition worldwide, affecting 7.74 million people.

    “SCD is highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, and causes a significant disease burden in other historically malaria-endemic regions of Africa, the Middle East, the Caribbean and South Asia. SCD also affects people in many other countries. Women who live with SCD are at higher risk for pregnancy complications,” the WHO adds.

    WHO’s facts about haemoglobin disorders

    • It is estimated that each year over 300 000 babies with severe forms of these diseases are born worldwide, the majority in low and middle income countries.
    • Approximately 5% of the world’s population are healthy carriers of a gene for sickle-cell disease or thalassaemia. The percentage of people who are carriers of the gene is as high as 25% in some regions.
    • These conditions are most prevalent in tropical regions; however population migration has spread these diseases to most countries.
    • Thalassaemias are the most common in Asia, the Mediterranean basin, and the Middle East.
    • Sickle-cell disease predominates in Africa.

    Prior to the August 11 meeting, the Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service and with technical support from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, convened on August 8, under the AYA Integrated Healthcare Initiative, a high-level stakeholder validation workshop on the revised national guidelines for the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in Accra.

    The workshop brought together key stakeholders from across the health sector, including policymakers, clinicians, health sector partners, civil society, and academia, to review and validate the revised 2019 national guidelines. These updated guidelines aim to equip healthcare providers with clear, evidence-based protocols for the prevention, early diagnosis, and effective management of CVDs at all levels of care.

    Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Hon. Minister for Health, the Deputy Minister, Hon. Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to tackling non-communicable diseases, especially cardiovascular conditions, which remain the leading cause of death in Ghana.

    “Cardiovascular diseases are a silent epidemic. Our hospitals are increasingly overwhelmed by complications that could have been prevented through early diagnosis and consistent care,” she stated.

    “Under the Mahama administration, we are strengthening primary healthcare and removing financial barriers to chronic care through the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCare. This flagship initiative will support the poor and vulnerable and invest in innovations that bring care closer to the people,” she added.

    Dr. Ayensu-Danquah further emphasized the need for robust partnerships in confronting the growing NCD burden, stating, “Achieving our national targets for non-communicable diseases requires shared responsibility and strong collaboration across borders and sectors. The AYA Integrated Healthcare Initiative, with support from GIZ, is a testament to the kind of strategic alliance we need to drive real impact.”

    It is expected that the draft guidelines will be validated and the input of stakeholders incorporated into the final document.

    AYA is implemented by GIZ International Services, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service, funded by Bayer AG, Sanofi, and the Gates Foundation, and with support from Panorama Global (a US charitable organisation supported by donations from Eli Lilly and Company).

  • Construction of new ward complex at Police Hospital begins; public urged to support

    Construction of new ward complex at Police Hospital begins; public urged to support

    The Ghana Police Service is seeing to the construction of a new ward complex at the Police Hospital in Accra. On Monday, August 11, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, accompanied by members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), was present at a sod-cutting ceremony for the project.

    The project is aimed at providing a dedicated, comfortable space for police personnel, their families, and retired officers requiring medical care. The ward complex will cater not only for officers in active service but also for retired personnel, recognising that many retirees face greater health challenges and require more support. The project is designed to also serve the wider police family as well as the general public, offering a space that promotes comfort and healing.

    The Police Administration is initiating the project with available resources. The Service is also appealing to individuals, corporate institutions, and the general public to support the initiative.

    Speaking at the ceremony, the Inspector-General of Police explained that the idea for the facility emerged after a visit to a colleague on admission at the hospital revealed the need for additional, well-equipped accommodation. 

    Christian Tetteh Yohuno expressed optimism that the completion of the ward complex will enhance the health and longevity of police personnel and their families. He called on all well-meaning Ghanaians and organisations to partner with the Police Service in delivering this important facility.

    So far this year, the Ghana Police Service has recorded massive investment by the government to aid its work and provide a more conducive space for its personnel.

    In May this year, Minister for Interior Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak and Inspector General of Police COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno commissioned two new police stations—Borteyman Police Station and UPSA Police Station.

    “This police station is a testament to our dedication to ensuring the safety and security of our citizens,” the minister stated at the commissioning of the UPSA Police Station.

    The police stations serve as a vital hub for police operations and community engagement, enabling officers to respond swiftly to challenges and work closely with residents to address security concerns.

    The Vice Chancellor of UPSA, Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor expressed gratitude to the government and the Ghana Police Service for the partnership in putting up the police station. He noted that the facility will enhance the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors and will contribute to a conducive learning environment.

    The Minister called on residents to partner with the police, share information, and work together to foster a culture of safety and peace. He also charged the officers serving at the station to engage with the community, listen to their concerns, and serve with dedication and respect.

    In an unrelated event, the Ghana Police Hospital on Monday, August 11, conducted a mass burial for 300 unclaimed bodies deposited in the hospital’s morgue.

    In a statement signed by Public Affairs Officer C/Inspr. Faustina Afia Nunekpeku, the hospital noted that the unidentified and unclaimed bodies are made up of paupers, unknown former patients, abandoned dead bodies, and accident and crime victims.

    “This solemn task is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that the deceased are laid to rest with dignity in line with public health guidelines,” a part of the statement issued read.

    Members of the general public were informed to contact the pathology department of the police hospital for identification of persons who might not have been seen for some time. 

    The hospital noted that the occurrence of such unclaimed bodies is a reminder of the importance of proper identification. It entreated all and sundry to be vigilant in safeguarding personal details, especially when traveling or engaging in daily activities.

    In light of this, the Ghana Police Hospital issued a number of preventive measures to avoid falling into the category of unknown deceased persons.

    These include always carrying an identification. The police noted that regardless of age or location, one must have their national identification or that of any organization on them to help the police or others easily identify them whenever they are involved in any crisis.

    Members of the general public have been entreated to share emergency contact information with close family and friends. 

    “These contacts can be used to reach out in case of a medical emergency or any unforeseen incident. For those who live alone, we advise keeping a list of emergency contact in easily accessible places,” the statement noted.

    Also, the hospital urged the public to stay abreast of the legal and safety requirements in the country. The hospital stated that there is the need to “always keep updated on local guidelines regarding health, safety and public transport, particularly in rural or less-patrolled areas where emergency services may be delayed.”

    Furthermore, the Ghana Police Hospital advocated for families and friends to make a collective effort to “maintain regular communication and keep records of loved ones whereabouts particularly the elderly, minors and individuals with mental health challenges who may be more vulnerable to disappearing without trace.”

    “..we believe that this serves as a reminder to all of us about the importance of securing our identification and taking necessary precautions for our safety. We urge the general public to adhere to these messages to ensure their safety and prevent such unfortunate incident,” it added.

  • 7 suspects in police custody for hijacking fuel tanker near Nsawam

    7 suspects in police custody for hijacking fuel tanker near Nsawam

    The number of suspects apprehended for the foiled fuel tanker robbery attempt near Nsawam stands at seven (7) at the moment.

    Subsequent operations in the Eastern Region led to the arrest of six other suspects and the recovery of the stolen fuel tanker and other exhibits.

    On August 7, the officers, while conducting routine vehicle checks, stopped a green pickup truck carrying three passengers in its open bucket.

    Two of the passengers jumped down and shouted for help, informing the officers they had been attacked during a robbery involving their 5,400-litre fuel tanker the previous night near Nsawam. The officers acted swiftly, rescuing the victims and arresting one suspect, while the others fled.

    Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has elevated the ranks of two officers of the Ghana Police Service for their diligence, dedication to duty, and vigilance during a snap check operation at Ablekuma Borkorborkor in the Greater Accra Region, which resulted in the rescue of two robbery victims.

    The officers, Chief Inspector Patience Kotoka and G/Constable Joseph Akondoh, both stationed at the Anyah District Police Command, together with four Community Police Assistants (CPAs), were honoured by the IGP and the members of the Police Management Board (POMAB) at the Police Headquarters on 8th August 2025. 

    Constable Joseph Akondoh was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal, while Chief Inspector Patience Kotoka was recommended to join the next Police Cadet Course at the Police Academy to be commissioned into the Senior Officer Corps of the service after a successful completion of the course.

    IGP Yohuno (L) and G/Constable Joseph Akondoh (R)

    The IGP commended the officers and CPAs for their exemplary performance, urging all personnel to emulate their professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to duty. He reaffirmed the Police Administration’s dedication to recognising and rewarding personnel who distinguish themselves in the line of duty.

    What the law says about stealing

    Section 124 of the Criminal Offences Act indicates that a person who steals commits a second-degree felony. Where the court that finds a person guilty of stealing is satisfied that on not less than two previous occasions the accused was found guilty of stealing, the Court shall order that the whole or a part of a term of imprisonment imposed by it shall be spent in productive hard labour.

    A person in respect of whom the court makes an order under subsection (2) is disqualified for election to Parliament or to a District Assembly within the meaning of the Local Government Act, 1993 (Act 462), for a period not exceeding five years.

    In recent times, security agencies have been rewarding their hardworking officers who actions go a long way to aid the development of the country.

    Private Teye-Tsu Asare Solomon, a member of the Department of Public Relations, was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal with immediate effect after rejecting a bribe from illegal miners in July.

    The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, led the promotion ceremony and announced the good work of the personnel at an all-ranks durbar at the Burma Hall on Friday, July 11.

    L/Cpl Teye-Tsu, in addition to his promotion, has been nominated to serve with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon in addition to other rewards.

    Presenting the rewards, the CDS urged personnel in the service to always act in accordance with their oath to the state and act professionally.

    Lieutenant General William Agyapong reminded the officers that as much as acts of indiscipline would attract sanctions, professional acts would attract reward and commendation.

    Lance Corporal (L/Cpl) Teye-Tsu displayed professionalism during an official deployment on guard duties at the Bibiani Gold Mines in the Western Region where he encountered a group of artisanal miners.

    The miners attempted to bribe him with a handsome amount of money to grant them access to the mines, which he rejected and handed them over to the authorities.

    In April this year, Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, disclosed that some police officers are allegedly receiving bribes ranging from GH₵2,000 to GH₵3,000 from illegal miners, known locally as galamseyers.

    Speaking at a meeting with police leadership in Tarkwa on April 17, Mr Nelson expressed deep concern over the growing allegations of bribery among officers in the fight against illegal mining in the Western Region.

    “When I hear that some of you are compromised in the fight against galamsey, I’m saddened. Just this evening, someone called me to complain that some officers are accepting bribes, ranging from GH₵2,000 to GH₵3,000. Whilst money is important, it’s more fulfilling when earned honestly,” he said.

    He bemoaned the devastating impact of illegal mining on the environment, warning that food security, water bodies, and livelihoods are all under threat. According to the minister, the consequences of galamsey will be felt by all, regardless of social status or location.

    “Some might think, if water bodies are destroyed, we can afford bottled water. But that’s an unfortunate mindset. Galamsey’s consequences will ultimately affect us all, and we’re already seeing its negative impact on our health and lives,” he stated.

    The minister urged the Western Central Police Command of the Ghana Police Service to rededicate themselves to the galamsey fight, urging officers to act with integrity and uphold their professional duty.

    “On galamsey, there’s a lot to be done. As Regional Minister, I have heard both the good and the bad. While I have commended your efforts, I need to highlight the negative aspects, especially regarding the fight against galamsey,” he noted.

    “Our environment is being destroyed in the name of finding gold and making money, putting lives at risk,” Mr Nelson added.

    He stressed that the battle against illegal mining must be pursued with national interest at heart and not influenced by the financial enticements of illegal operators.

    He cautioned that reports of uniformed officers accepting bribes from galamseyers and their financiers continue to undermine the state’s efforts to halt the destruction of the environment.

    In the Ghana Police Service’s recent fight against the menace, two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 suspects and the seizure of several pieces of mining equipment.

    The operations were executed by the Ghana Police Service, through its Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force.

    The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved one (1) single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three (3) water pumping machines.

  • Members of the Diplomatic Corps sign book of condolence at Foreign Affairs Ministry

    Members of the Diplomatic Corps sign book of condolence at Foreign Affairs Ministry

    Members of the Diplomatic Corps from several missions have thronged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to pay tribute to the eight (8) victims of the August 6 helicopter disaster.

    The books of condolence were opened simultaneously on Sunday, August 10, at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO.

    On Sunday, the following Diplomatic Missions and International Organisation had representatives sign the book of condolence.

    They were from the Embassy of the Republic of Liberia, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco, the ECOWAS Secretariat, the Embassy of the Republic of Cotê d’Ivoire, the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Embassy of the Republic of Sudan, and the Embassy of Italy.

    On Monday, August 11, over 20 representatives of Diplomatic Missions and International Organisation signed the book of condolence.

    They include the Embassy of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, Honorary Consulate of Jamaica, Embassy of the Republic of Cuba, Embassy of the Republic of Senegal, Embassy of the Republic of Niger, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt, High Commission of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, European Union Delegation to Ghana, and Embassy of the State of Kuwait.

    The others are the High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda, the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia, the Embassy of the State of Israel, the Embassy of the Republic of Suriname, the Embassy of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the United Nations Development Programme, the Embassy of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Embassy of the Republic of Colombia, and the High Commission of India.

    The remaining missions are the Embassy of Hungary, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates, the Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Federation of the Aboriginal Nations of the Americas, the Embassy of the Republic of Peru, the Honorary Consulate of Austria, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the Apostolic Nunciature and the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye.

    The books will be open until Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the remaining six individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident.

    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.

    Meanwhile, the Funeral Planning Committee has entreated members of the public to send messages of condolences and heartfelt tributes for inclusion in the official brochure.

    Tributes are to be sent to the email tributes@presidency.gov.gh.
    Deadline for submissions is Wednesday, August 13 at 12:00 PM (noon) GMT.

  • IGP promotes 2 officers who foiled fuel tanker robbery attempt

    IGP promotes 2 officers who foiled fuel tanker robbery attempt

    Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has elevated the ranks of two officers of the Ghana Police Service for their diligence, dedication to duty, and vigilance during a snap check operation at Ablekuma Borkorborkor in the Greater Accra Region, which resulted in the rescue of two robbery victims and the arrest of seven suspects. 

    The officers, Chief Inspector Patience Kotoka and G/Constable Joseph Akondoh, both stationed at the Anyah District Police Command, together with four Community Police Assistants (CPAs), were honoured by the IGP and the members of the Police Management Board (POMAB) at the Police Headquarters on 8th August 2025. 

    Constable Joseph Akondoh was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal, while Chief Inspector Patience Kotoka was recommended to join the next Police Cadet Course at the Police Academy to be commissioned into the Senior Officer Corps of the service after a successful completion of the course.

    On August 7, the officers, while conducting routine vehicle checks, stopped a green pickup truck carrying three passengers in its open bucket. Two of the passengers jumped down and shouted for help, informing the officers they had been attacked during a robbery involving their 5,400-litre fuel tanker the previous night near Nsawam. 

    IGP Yohuno (L) and G/Constable Joseph Akondoh (R)

    The officers acted swiftly, rescuing the victims and arresting one suspect, while the others fled. Subsequent operations in the Eastern Region led to the arrest of six other suspects and the recovery of the stolen fuel tanker and other exhibits.

    The IGP commended the officers and CPAs for their exemplary performance, urging all personnel to emulate their professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to duty. He reaffirmed the Police Administration’s dedication to recognising and rewarding personnel who distinguish themselves in the line of duty.

    What the law says about stealing

    Section 124 of the Criminal Offences Act indicates that a person who steals commits a second-degree felony. Where the court that finds a person guilty of stealing is satisfied that on not less than two previous occasions the accused was found guilty of stealing, the Court shall order that the whole or a part of a term of imprisonment imposed by it shall be spent in productive hard labour.

    A person in respect of whom the court makes an order under subsection (2) is disqualified for election to Parliament or to a District Assembly within the meaning of the Local Government Act, 1993 (Act 462), for a period not exceeding five years.

    In recent times, security agencies have been rewarding their hardworking officers whose actions go a long way to aid the development of the country.

    Private Teye-Tsu Asare Solomon, a member of the Department of Public Relations, was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal with immediate effect after rejecting a bribe from illegal miners in July.

    The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, led the promotion ceremony and announced the good work of the personnel at an all-ranks durbar at the Burma Hall on Friday, July 11.

    L/Cpl Teye-Tsu, in addition to his promotion, has been nominated to serve with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon in addition to other rewards.

    Presenting the rewards, the CDS urged personnel in the service to always act in accordance with their oath to the state and act professionally.

    Lieutenant General William Agyapong reminded the officers that as much as acts of indiscipline would attract sanctions, professional acts would attract reward and commendation.

    Lance Corporal (L/Cpl) Teye-Tsu displayed professionalism during an official deployment on guard duties at the Bibiani Gold Mines in the Western Region where he encountered a group of artisanal miners.

    The miners attempted to bribe him with a handsome amount of money to grant them access to the mines, which he rejected and handed them over to the authorities.

    In April this year, Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, disclosed that some police officers are allegedly receiving bribes ranging from GH₵2,000 to GH₵3,000 from illegal miners, known locally as galamseyers.

    Speaking at a meeting with police leadership in Tarkwa on April 17, Mr Nelson expressed deep concern over the growing allegations of bribery among officers in the fight against illegal mining in the Western Region.

    “When I hear that some of you are compromised in the fight against galamsey, I’m saddened. Just this evening, someone called me to complain that some officers are accepting bribes, ranging from GH₵2,000 to GH₵3,000. Whilst money is important, it’s more fulfilling when earned honestly,” he said.

    He bemoaned the devastating impact of illegal mining on the environment, warning that food security, water bodies, and livelihoods are all under threat. According to the minister, the consequences of galamsey will be felt by all, regardless of social status or location.

    “Some might think, if water bodies are destroyed, we can afford bottled water. But that’s an unfortunate mindset. Galamsey’s consequences will ultimately affect us all, and we’re already seeing its negative impact on our health and lives,” he stated.

    The minister urged the Western Central Police Command of the Ghana Police Service to rededicate themselves to the galamsey fight, urging officers to act with integrity and uphold their professional duty.

    “On galamsey, there’s a lot to be done. As Regional Minister, I have heard both the good and the bad. While I have commended your efforts, I need to highlight the negative aspects, especially regarding the fight against galamsey,” he noted.

    “Our environment is being destroyed in the name of finding gold and making money, putting lives at risk,” Mr Nelson added.

    He stressed that the battle against illegal mining must be pursued with national interest at heart and not influenced by the financial enticements of illegal operators.

    He cautioned that reports of uniformed officers accepting bribes from galamseyers and their financiers continue to undermine the state’s efforts to halt the destruction of the environment.

    In the Ghana Police Service’s recent fight against the menace, two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 suspects and the seizure of several pieces of mining equipment.

    The operations were executed by the Ghana Police Service, through its Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force.

    The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved one (1) single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three (3) water pumping machines.

  • Public entreated to send tributes for 8 fallen heroes before noon on August 13

    Public entreated to send tributes for 8 fallen heroes before noon on August 13

    The Funeral Planning Committee has extended a solemn invitation to all individuals, institutions, and the public to come together in remembrance and honour the lives lost following the tragic helicopter crash on 6 August 2025.

    Members of the public are encouraged to send messages of condolences and heartfelt tributes for inclusion in the official brochure.

    Tributes are to be sent to the email tributes@presidency.gov.gh.
    Deadline for submissions is Wednesday, August 13 at 12:00 PM (noon) GMT.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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.

    Meanwhile, books of condolence were opened simultaneously on Sunday, August 10, at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO. The books will be open until Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the remaining six individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident.

    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.

  • Profile of the late Asantehemaa Nana Ama 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.

    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.

  • VIDEO: 11th Biennial CHEA-Africa Conference in Accra underway

    VIDEO: 11th Biennial CHEA-Africa Conference in Accra underway

    The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has officially opened the 11th Biennial Commonwealth Hansard Editors Association – Africa Region (CHEA-AR) Conference in Accra, 2025.

    In his keynote address, the Speaker urged Hansard editors across the continent to ensure that their parliamentary reports not only reflect accuracy and neutrality but also embody the true African narrative.

    Speaking under the theme “Charting the Future of Hansard: Embracing Technology and Innovation for Enhanced Parliamentary Reporting,” the Speaker emphasized the critical role of Hansard editors in shaping public understanding of parliamentary democracy, calling on them to leverage technology while preserving the continent’s unique parliamentary identity and voice.

  • Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III passes away

    Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III passes away

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

    She died at nearly 100 years old. Her passing was announced today at an emergency sitting of the Asanteman Traditional Council, which was presided over by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    Paramount, divisional, and sub-chiefs from across the Ashanti Kingdom have assembled at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the meeting, which was earlier announced in a statement on August 7.

    According to reports, there is enhanced security around the palace, with traditional protocol officers and police personnel working together to maintain order and ensure the smooth conduct of proceedings.

    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.

    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.

  • Ghana Gas to shut down Atuabo Gas Processing Plant from August 16 to 30 for maintenance works

    Ghana Gas to shut down Atuabo Gas Processing Plant from August 16 to 30 for maintenance works

    The Ghana National Gas Company Ltd. (Ghana Gas) is set to undertake a scheduled maintenance shutdown of the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant (Plant) from 16th August 2025 to 30th August 2025. 

    This follows the approval of a request sent to the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition. According to the Energy Ministry in a statement signed by Richmond Rockson, Esq.

    Spokesperson And Head Of Communication, this “essential maintenance is part of government’s commitment to ensuring the continued safe and reliable operation of the plant.”

    In light of this, Ghana Gas will temporarily suspend the supply of gas within the stated period to facilitate this essential maintenance.

    During this period, the plant will undergo critical maintenance activities designed to enhance its operational efficiency and overall performance. These activities include inspections, repairs, and upgrades to key equipment and systems.

    The Ministry, in collaboration with key power sector players, has put in place comprehensive measures to mitigate any potential impact on power supply during the maintenance period. 

    These measures include the strategic deployment of alternative fuel sources to ensure a stable and uninterrupted electricity supply across the country.

    The Energy Ministry has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to maintaining reliable power supply at all times. “We will keep the public informed by providing regular updates on the progress of the ongoing maintenance,” the statement added.

    The West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo), the operator of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), carried out major maintenance work from February 5 to March 2, 2025.

    The activities involved pigging and conducting in-line inspections along the 569 km offshore pipeline that spans from Ajido, Lagos State, in Nigeria to Takoradi in Ghana’s Western Region. The project also included replacing essential subsea valves in Tema and Cotonou to improve safety measures.

    Due to this maintenance, certain services were temporarily halted, including the reverse flow of natural gas from the Western Region to Tema, as well as gas transport from Nigeria to Cotonou, Lomé, and Tema. Nonetheless, some natural gas transportation from Nigeria to Takoradi remained unaffected to support the pipeline’s cleaning and inspection procedures.

    This detailed cleaning and inspection process is required by regulations and adheres to industry best practices to ensure the ongoing safe and effective operation of the WAGP.

    The maintenance occurred in two phases. The first phase, which wrapped up in December 2024, addressed the onshore section of the pipeline in Nigeria. The second phase, which began on February 5, 2025, focused on the offshore portion of the pipeline.

    Last month, the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition disclosed that the gas supplier, ENI, completed a key upgrade on the country’s gas infrastructure.

    In a press statement on Monday, July 14, the ministry noted that the new development raises output from 245 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd) to 270 MMscfd.

    As such, the upgrade supports Ghana’s efforts to boost gas supply for power generation and industrial use.

    “This enhancement in gas supply is a significant step towards ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply for the nation,” the Ministry stated in an official release issued on Monday, July 14.

    The Ministry has lauded ENI and all stakeholders within the power sector for their collective efforts in bringing the project. Before the upgrade, the ministry announced a possible temporary power disruption on Sunday, July 13, to allow ENI to undergo a rehabilitation session.

    Meanwhile, Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has cautioned that without immediate reforms, the energy sector risks collapsing under the weight of growing debt.

    According to Dr. Forson, ECG successfully collects only 62% of the electricity it supplies, leaving nearly 40% unaccounted for—either lost due to technical faults or unpaid.

    This shortfall has forced the government to provide continuous financial support, with budgetary transfers reaching $2.1 billion over the past two years.

    Dr. Forson emphasized that these inefficiencies are severely impacting the economy, as government support for the energy sector has reached unsustainable levels while ECG continues to struggle with operational and revenue challenges.

    ECG managed to raise GH¢1.6 billion in revenue in the first half of 2025, against a projected target of GH¢2.5 billion.

    However, the Energy Ministry has disclosed the construction of the 161kV Anwomaso to Kumasi transmission line, co-funded by the European Union and the government of France.

    The €8.7 million project is expected to assist in stabilizing the low voltage in Kumasi and Dukwaw mining areas will be constructed by the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCO).

    It is projected to be completed within 12 months. This will facilitate Ghana’s export of power to Burkina Faso.

    The reconstruction of the transmission line will enable the provision of double-circuit, twin-bundled transmission line of rated capacity to improve power transfer between the Ahodwo (K1BSP) and the Anwomaso (K2BSP) substations.

    On his part, EU Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Irchard Razaly, has noted that the project serves as its commitment to providing greener and more efficient energy for Ghanaians.

  • Don’t let victims of helicopter crash die in vain; stop galamsey now – Dr Tony Aidoo to President Mahama

    Don’t let victims of helicopter crash die in vain; stop galamsey now – Dr Tony Aidoo to President Mahama

    Ghana’s former ambassador to the Netherlands, Dr Tony Aidoo, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to employ pragmatic measures to swiftly end the activities of illegal miners in the country.

    His comments come after the demise of the eight individuals who perished in a helicopter crash on August 6 in the Ashanti Region en route to a national event to address illegal mining.

    In an engagement with the media, Dr Aidoo noted that the government, specifically the president, must ensure he nips the canker in the bud to ensure that the lives lost are not in vain. He noted that radical decisions must be taken to ensure further lives are not lost, directly or indirectly.

    “Why were they in the air? They were in the air because they were going to fight galamsey. President Mahama must kill the galamsey menace before it ends his members [of cabinet]. God gives, yes, but God does not take innocent lives. People die by their own destruction or by lifestyle. What is President Mahama waiting for? Yesterday, I heard Kwame Mpianim say we must ban galamsey for three months,” he said.

    He added: “In fact, my first reaction after the Chief of Staff gave us the details and confirmed the death was to send the message directly to President Mahama, and I said these eight patriotic souls lost their lives in the fight against galamsey. So for God’s sake, Mr President, don’t let them die in vain. Stop the galamsey now. That’s the best tribute we can say to these patriotic deaths.”

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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.

    Meanwhile, books of condolence were opened simultaneously on Sunday, August 10, at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO. The books will be open until Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the remaining six individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident.

    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.

  • DGPP has impacted the economy positively – BoG

    DGPP has impacted the economy positively – BoG

    First Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Zakari Mumuni, has noted that the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP) launched in 2021 has impacted the economy positively, with strong reserve accumulation, stability in the exchange rate, and easing inflation.

    Speaking at the Cnverge ’25 – Africa’s Premier Trade Banking Thought Impact Event held last week, Dr. Zakari Mumuni also noted that 86.77 tonnes have been sold for FX to bolster reserves and the bank’s physical gold holdings have increased to 32.99 tonnes from 8.74 tonnes.

    The Bank of Ghana (BoG), as of June 2025, purchased 145.95 tonnes of gold since the inception of the DGPP. “27.63 tonnes of gold was utilised in the settlement of 1.95 million Metric Tons of petroleum products under the G4O Initiative,” he said.

    According to the First Deputy Governor, this helped to improve the country’s credit profile from restrictive default to B- with a stable outlook in June 2025, boosting investor confidence. “All these developments have contributed to a stable macroeconomic environment,

    which is of critical interest to your work,” he added.

    Two months ago, Fitch 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.

    Basis for DGPP

    Ghana has mined gold for over three centuries and, for the most part, exported all the gold. In 2019, Ghana ranked number one in Africa and the 7th top gold producer worldwide. However, while central banks globally acquired 670 tonnes of gold in 2019 to diversify and hedge their reserves, Ghana added nothing to its own gold reserves. 

    Also, gold accounted for nearly 56 percent of Ghana’s total export earnings, and yet, until 2022, gold had not featured much as an asset class in Ghana’s reserve portfolio or contributed much to reserve accumulation. Rather, there was heavy reliance on traditional sources of funds to the country’s foreign exchange reserves, such as inflows from cocoa syndicated loans and Eurobonds.

    Faced with these facts, Ghana undertook feasibility studies on countries with domestic gold purchase programmes (including the Bank of the Philippines, Central Bank of Ecuador, South African Reserve Bank, Turkey Central Bank, Bank of Mongolia, etc.).

    Consequently, Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP) was launched in June 2021 to, among other things, increase the Bank’s gold reserves by 100% within five years—which at the time was 8.74 tonnes, diversify the Bank’s FX reserve portfolio, leverage the Bank’s gold holdings to raise cheaper short-term and collateralized financing, and finally, build confidence with stronger reserves and a stable currency.

    After the successful implementation of the DGPP, the Bank extended the strategy to the Gold for Oil (G4O) initiative in 2022. This was a policy solution to moderate the adverse effects of escalating domestic ex-pump petroleum prices, which surged as high as 230% in one year, as international crude oil prices rose sharply. Also, petroleum imports topped commodity imports into the country, exerting significant FX pressures on the limited reserve buffers.

    The G4O intervention, therefore, leveraged the DGPP framework to provide FX and gold to support the importation of petroleum products through government-to-government arrangements. The G4O intervention helped secure petroleum imports at competitive prices, easing pressure on the forex market and stabilizing ex-pump petroleum prices. This moderated the volatile ex-pump price pass-through effects on transport costs, and in turn, inflation.

    Months ago, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) revealed that it lost a total of GH¢2.14 billion from the now-ended Gold for Oil (G4O) Programme, which was implemented by the erstwhile government.

    This was revealed in a response from the central bank following a formal request made by Kwadwo Poku, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and an energy analyst. He requested it while invoking the country’s Right to Information laws.

    In the bank’s official reply (dated July 2025), they explained that the losses happened over two years, i.e., spanning between the 2023-2024 fiscal year. In 2023, the country lost GH¢320 million, and a further GH¢1.82 billion was lost in 2024, totalling GH¢2.14 billion.

    The Bank of Ghana officially announced the cancellation of the programme on March 13, 2025, citing severe financial losses totalling over GH¢2 billion since its launch. Before that, there were hints of a gradual wind-down as early as November 28, 2023, when former Bank of Ghana Governor Ernest Addison described it as a crisis-era intervention that had served its purpose.

    The Bank of Ghana attributed the losses to two major components: gold transactions and petroleum trading. On gold transactions, the report says that the Bank of Ghana’s unrealistic exchange rate caused the losses. It said that it lost about GH¢1.80 billion, mainly because the exchange rate used by the bank was different from the rate on the gold market. 

    Also, on the losses recorded from petrol trading, from which they lost GH¢340 million, the report mentioned that under the G4O, BoG purchased large volumes of fuel just before global oil prices fell. When the prices dropped, the fuel they had stocked up became less valuable.

    Despite the losses, the report acknowledged the G4O initiative. According to BoG, the programme was not a total failure but made some returns before it dwindled in the later years, citing its positive impact during the first year of implementation in 2023. It noted that the programme helped reduce demand for US dollars from Bulk Oil Distributors (BDCs), alleviating pressure on the interbank foreign exchange market.

    G40 saved the country by preventing an estimated $1.66 billion in additional FX demand, which would have been required to deliver 56 cargoes totalling over 1.84 million metric tonnes of petroleum products by December 2024. Also, the initiative spurred competition in the fuel supply market. Prior to G4O, petroleum premiums ranged between $150 and $170 per metric tonne. These figures dropped to between $50 and $80 due to the programme, resulting in lower ex-pump fuel prices.

    The central bank also highlighted that the removal of forward exchange rate pricing under the G4O programme helped stabilise domestic fuel prices. Aside from the losses the programme made, which were cited as part of the reasons for its discontinuation, the Bank of Ghana also explained that the G4O programme was financially unsustainable and did not align with the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) fiscal recommendations.

    Going forward, according to the central bank, it will refocus on its core mandate, with renewed emphasis on the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme to build foreign reserves organically.

  • BoG purchased 145.95 tonnes of gold under DGPP as of June 2025 – First Dep. Governor

    BoG purchased 145.95 tonnes of gold under DGPP as of June 2025 – First Dep. Governor

    The Bank of Ghana (BoG), as of June 2025, purchased 145.95 tonnes of gold since the inception of the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP), aimed at strengthening the country’s foreign exchange reserves and stabilising the local currency, according to the central bank’s First Deputy Governor, Dr. Zakari Mumuni.

    The strategic initiative was launched by the Bank of Ghana on June 17, 2021. Speaking at the Cnverge ’25 – Africa’s Premier Trade Banking Thought Impact Event held last week, Dr. Zakari Mumuni also noted that 86.77 tonnes have been sold for FX to bolster reserves and the bank’s physical gold holdings have increased to 32.99 tonnes from 8.74 tonnes.

    “27.63 tonnes of gold was utilised in the settlement of 1.95 million Metric Tons of petroleum products under the G4O Initiative. On all counts, the DGPP has impacted positively, with strong reserve accumulation, stability in the exchange rate, and easing inflation,” he said.

    According to the First Deputy Governor, this helped to improve the country’s credit profile from restrictive default to B- with a stable outlook in June 2025, boosting investor confidence. “All these developments have contributed to a stable macroeconomic environment,

    which is of critical interest to your work,” he added.

    Two months ago, Fitch 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.

    Basis for DGPP

    Ghana has mined gold for over three centuries and, for the most part, exported all the gold. In 2019, Ghana ranked number one in Africa and the 7th top gold producer worldwide. However, while central banks globally acquired 670 tonnes of gold in 2019 to diversify and hedge their reserves, Ghana added nothing to its own gold reserves. 

    Also, gold accounted for nearly 56 percent of Ghana’s total export earnings, and yet, until 2022, gold had not featured much as an asset class in Ghana’s reserve portfolio or contributed much to reserve accumulation. Rather, there was heavy reliance on traditional sources of funds to the country’s foreign exchange reserves, such as inflows from cocoa syndicated loans and Eurobonds.

    Faced with these facts, Ghana undertook feasibility studies on countries with domestic gold purchase programmes (including the Bank of the Philippines, Central Bank of Ecuador, South African Reserve Bank, Turkey Central Bank, Bank of Mongolia, etc.).

    Consequently, Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP) was launched in June 2021 to, among other things, increase the Bank’s gold reserves by 100% within five years—which at the time was 8.74 tonnes, diversify the Bank’s FX reserve portfolio, leverage the Bank’s gold holdings to raise cheaper short-term and collateralized financing, and finally, build confidence with stronger reserves and a stable currency.

    After the successful implementation of the DGPP, the Bank extended the strategy to the Gold for Oil (G4O) initiative in 2022. This was a policy solution to moderate the adverse effects of escalating domestic ex-pump petroleum prices, which surged as high as 230% in one year, as international crude oil prices rose sharply. Also, petroleum imports topped commodity imports into the country, exerting significant FX pressures on the limited reserve buffers.

    The G4O intervention, therefore, leveraged the DGPP framework to provide FX and gold to support the importation of petroleum products through government-to-government arrangements. The G4O intervention helped secure petroleum imports at competitive prices, easing pressure on the forex market and stabilizing ex-pump petroleum prices. This moderated the volatile ex-pump price pass-through effects on transport costs, and in turn, inflation.

    Months ago, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) revealed that it lost a total of GH¢2.14 billion from the now-ended Gold for Oil (G4O) Programme, which was implemented by the erstwhile government.

    This was revealed in a response from the central bank following a formal request made by Kwadwo Poku, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and an energy analyst. He requested it while invoking the country’s Right to Information laws.

    In the bank’s official reply (dated July 2025), they explained that the losses happened over two years, i.e., spanning between the 2023-2024 fiscal year. In 2023, the country lost GH¢320 million, and a further GH¢1.82 billion was lost in 2024, totalling GH¢2.14 billion.

    The Bank of Ghana officially announced the cancellation of the programme on March 13, 2025, citing severe financial losses totalling over GH¢2 billion since its launch. Before that, there were hints of a gradual wind-down as early as November 28, 2023, when former Bank of Ghana Governor Ernest Addison described it as a crisis-era intervention that had served its purpose.

    The Bank of Ghana attributed the losses to two major components: gold transactions and petroleum trading. On gold transactions, the report says that the Bank of Ghana’s unrealistic exchange rate caused the losses. It said that it lost about GH¢1.80 billion, mainly because the exchange rate used by the bank was different from the rate on the gold market. 

    Also, on the losses recorded from petrol trading, from which they lost GH¢340 million, the report mentioned that under the G4O, BoG purchased large volumes of fuel just before global oil prices fell. When the prices dropped, the fuel they had stocked up became less valuable.

    Despite the losses, the report acknowledged the G4O initiative. According to BoG, the programme was not a total failure but made some returns before it dwindled in the later years, citing its positive impact during the first year of implementation in 2023. It noted that the programme helped reduce demand for US dollars from Bulk Oil Distributors (BDCs), alleviating pressure on the interbank foreign exchange market.

    G40 saved the country by preventing an estimated $1.66 billion in additional FX demand, which would have been required to deliver 56 cargoes totalling over 1.84 million metric tonnes of petroleum products by December 2024. Also, the initiative spurred competition in the fuel supply market. Prior to G4O, petroleum premiums ranged between $150 and $170 per metric tonne. These figures dropped to between $50 and $80 due to the programme, resulting in lower ex-pump fuel prices.

    The central bank also highlighted that the removal of forward exchange rate pricing under the G4O programme helped stabilise domestic fuel prices. Aside from the losses the programme made, which were cited as part of the reasons for its discontinuation, the Bank of Ghana also explained that the G4O programme was financially unsustainable and did not align with the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) fiscal recommendations.

    Going forward, according to the central bank, it will refocus on its core mandate, with renewed emphasis on the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme to build foreign reserves organically.

  • Thank you for your patience – President Mahama tells families of Dr Murtala, Alhaji Mohammed

    Thank you for your patience – President Mahama tells families of Dr Murtala, Alhaji Mohammed

    President John Dramani Mahama has expressed gratitude to the families of 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 for their patience as the government ensured the DNA tests were carried out to aid the identification of the two deceased prior to their burial.

    At the burial site on Sunday, President Mahama used the opportunity to thank all who were present and showed their sympathy to the family and country as a whole.

    “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.

    Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed and 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.

    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.

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off in the morning of August 6 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.

    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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways and Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    The DNA results of the two Muslim victims were received on Saturday, August 9, paving the way for burial rites in accordance with Islamic tradition to be held. Currently, the DNA results of the other deceased have been received.

    Meanwhile, books of condolence were opened simultaneously on Sunday, August 10, at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO. The books will be open until Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    Investigations ongoing

    Also, an Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president has revealed. He further informed Ghanaians on August 7 that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    As the relevant authorities probe the circumstances of the death 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, the president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • Dr Murtala Mohammed, Alhaji Mohammed Limuna laid to rest at Military cemetry

    Dr Murtala Mohammed, Alhaji Mohammed Limuna laid to rest at Military cemetry

    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.

    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.

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off in the morning of August 6 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.

    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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways and Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    The DNA results of the two Muslim victims were received on Saturday, August 9, paving the way for burial rites in accordance with Islamic tradition to be held. Currently, the DNA results of the other deceased have been received.

    Meanwhile, books of condolence were opened simultaneously on Sunday, August 10, at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO. The books will be open until Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    Investigations ongoing

    Also, an Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president has revealed. He further informed Ghanaians on August 7 that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    As the relevant authorities probe the circumstances of the death 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, the president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • Health Minister, IGP receive DNA results of remaining 6 deceased in helicopter crash

    Health Minister, IGP receive DNA results of remaining 6 deceased in helicopter crash

    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 6 deceased are 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; Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.

    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.

    The DNA results of the two Muslim victims were received on Saturday, August 9. Following this, Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, and Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator—two out of the eight who perished in the August 6 helicopter crash—were buried in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    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 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways and Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    Last week, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off in the morning of August 6 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.

    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.

    Meanwhile, books of condolence were opened simultaneously on Sunday, August 10, at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO. The books will be open until Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the remaining six individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident.

    The president made this known when he addressed the nation on Thursday night, August 7, a day after the tragic incident.

  • LIVESTREAMING: Burial rite for Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna underway

    LIVESTREAMING: Burial rite for Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna underway

    Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, the two Muslims who were part of the eight lives lost in the helicopter crash will be laid to rest today in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    On Sunday, August 10, at 2pm, Muslim Jannaza prayers will be offered at the forecourt of State House. At 2:30pm on the same day, they will be buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra.

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 took place yesterday, August 9.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” took place at the Forecourt of the State House.

    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.

  • Book of condolence for 8 deceased in helicopter crash opened

    Book of condolence for 8 deceased in helicopter crash opened

    The Book of Condolence for the eight compatriots who died in the GAF Z9 helicopter crash is now open from today, Sunday, August 10 to Thursday, August 14, 2025, at designated locations across the country.

    It will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO.

    Prior to this, the “Evening of Reflections and Memorials,” took place at the Forecourt of the State House during the final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals on Saturday, August 9.

    Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has charged all Ghanaians to transform their grief over the demise of the eight individuals following the helicopter crash on August 6 into

    Speaking at the event, she stated that “this is not a time for perfect words nor a time for the right thoughts, because there are none.”

    However, “it is a time for wishing our colleagues, who have perished in the line of duty, peaceful rest. It is a time for praying for comfort for their families and for everyone.”

    “It is a time too for the rest of us… to renew our pledge to work in ways that truly advance our country as they have tried to do,” she added.

    On his part, President John Dramani Mahama expressed hope that the demise of the individuals during the August 6th helicopter crash will not plummet the nation into darkness.

    He believes that the fond memories Ghanaians hold of them will provide a light in the period of devastation.

    “I pray that the cherished memories of these, our loved ones, will serve as a guiding light, illuminating a path through the darkness and devastation of this national tragedy.”

    He added: “I stand before you tonight additionally, and quite humbly, as a person who is also personally grieving the departed. Each of the eight persons in that helicopter was either a friend, a cherished colleague, or a valued citizen of this country that I lead.”

    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 yesterday 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.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, the two Muslims who were part of the eight lives lost in the helicopter crash will be laid to rest today in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    On Sunday, August 10, at 2pm, Muslim Jannaza prayers will be offered at the forecourt of State House. At 2:30pm on the same day, they will be buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the remaining six individuals who lost their lives.

    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.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • We must renew our pledge to work in ways that truly advance our country – Veep to Ghanaians

    We must renew our pledge to work in ways that truly advance our country – Veep to Ghanaians

    Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has charged all Ghanaians to transform their grief over the demise of the eight individuals following the helicopter crash on August 6 into

    Speaking at the “Evening of Reflections and Memorials,” which took place at the Forecourt of the State House during the final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals on Saturday, August 9, she stated that “this is not a time for perfect words nor a time for the right thoughts, because there are none.”

    However, “it is a time for wishing our colleagues, who have perished in the line of duty, peaceful rest. It is a time for praying for comfort for their families and for everyone.”

    “It is a time too for the rest of us… to renew our pledge to work in ways that truly advance our country as they have tried to do,” she added.

    On his part, President John Dramani Mahama expressed hope that the demise of the individuals during the August 6th helicopter crash will not plummet the nation into darkness.

    He believes that the fond memories Ghanaians hold of them will provide a light in the period of devastation.

    “I pray that the cherished memories of these, our loved ones, will serve as a guiding light, illuminating a path through the darkness and devastation of this national tragedy.”

    He added: “I stand before you tonight additionally, and quite humbly, as a person who is also personally grieving the departed. Each of the eight persons in that helicopter was either a friend, a cherished colleague, or a valued citizen of this country that I lead.”

    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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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.

    Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, the two Muslims who were part of the eight lives lost in the helicopter crash will be laid to rest today in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    On Sunday, August 10, at 2pm, Muslim Jannaza prayers will be offered at the forecourt of State House. At 2:30pm on the same day, they will be buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • I pray their memories illuminate the darkness – President Mahama mourns victims of helicopter crash

    I pray their memories illuminate the darkness – President Mahama mourns victims of helicopter crash

    President John Dramani Mahama is hopeful that the demise of the individuals during the August 6th helicopter crash will not plummet the nation into darkness.

    He believes that the fond memories Ghanaians hold of them will provide a light in the period of devastation.

    “I pray that the cherished memories of these, our loved ones, will serve as a guiding light, illuminating a path through the darkness and devastation of this national tragedy.”

    He added: “I stand before you tonight additionally, and quite humbly, as a person who is also personally grieving the departed. Each of the eight persons in that helicopter was either a friend, a cherished colleague, or a valued citizen of this country that I lead.”

    The president made the remarks during the final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals on Saturday, August 9.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” took place at the Forecourt of the State House.

    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 yesterday 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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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.

    Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, the two Muslims who were part of the eight lives lost in the helicopter crash will be laid to rest today in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    On Sunday, August 10, at 2pm, Muslim Jannaza prayers will be offered at the forecourt of State House. At 2:30pm on the same day, they will be buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • 3 Ghanaians tried in US court for stealing over $100m in romance scams; one at large

    3 Ghanaians tried in US court for stealing over $100m in romance scams; one at large

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the FBI. He also thanked Ghana and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs for their assistance. 

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the International Cooperation Unit of the Office of the Attorney-General of Ghana to secure the extraditions to the United States.  Ghana’s Economic and Organized Crime Office, the Ghana Police Service – INTERPOL, Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority, and Ghana’s National Intelligence Bureau all provided significant assistance to ensure the success of these extraditions.

    The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Mead and Mitzi Steiner are in charge of the prosecution.

    There has been a surge in reports of Ghanaian nationals being involved in illegal activities abroad, especially romance scams.

    Last month, Ghana’s nightlife mogul and alleged crypto kingpin, Nana Kojo Boateng, popularly known as “Dada Joe Remix,” was extradited successfully to the United States to face romance scam charges.

    This was made known on the Embassy’s Facebook page on July 1, 2025, following a collaborative effort between the Embassy’s Diplomatic Security Service special agents and Ghanaian authorities who offered support to the FBI in the operation.

    Mr Boateng has been charged with leading a fraud ring that targeted Americans through deceptive romance and inheritance ploys, resulting in multimillion-dollar losses. Thus, he is in the USA now to face prosecution.

    Last year, a Ghanaian national, Emmanuel Quamey, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for his involvement in defrauding vulnerable and elderly victims in the United States, according to asaaseonline.com.

    United States District Judge Carol Bagley Amon handed down the sentencing, which also includes a forfeiture order of $3.3 million and restitution totaling approximately $3.8 million to the victims.

    Quamey, who pleaded guilty in October 2023 to conspiring to receive stolen money, was part of a scheme laundering the proceeds of romance scams, exploiting victims’ trust and companionship desires, resulting in significant financial loss.

    Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, underscored the seriousness of the crime, condemning romance scams as callous crimes preying on vulnerable victims.

    “Romance scams are callous crimes in which perpetrators steal money from vulnerable and elderly victims by taking advantage of the victims’ trust and desire to form human connections,” Peace stated.

    “This sentence serves as a warning to individuals like the defendant that there are real consequences to participating in these cruel scams. This Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to bringing these fraudsters to justice and getting the victims’ money back.”

    Peace emphasized the consequences for participating in such scams, affirming the commitment to bringing fraudsters to justice and recovering victims’ money.

    Special Agent-in-Charge Ivan J. Arvelo of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New York, commended the investigators for their efforts.

    According to court filings, between September 2019 and March 2023, Quamey and his co-conspirators orchestrated a scheme receiving over $3.8 million in fraud proceeds from vulnerable U.S. victims of romance scams. These scams involve scammers posing as potential romantic partners on social media or dating sites, tricking victims into sending money under false pretenses.

    Quamey’s role was to receive and launder the victims’ money, personally receiving approximately $3.3 million wired into bank accounts he controlled.

    Using multiple bank accounts in the United States and Ghana, Quamey and his co-conspirators transferred the victims’ money overseas to Ghana.

    “Romance scams are callous crimes in which perpetrators steal money from vulnerable and elderly victims by taking advantage of the victims’ trust and desire to form human connections,” Peace stated.

    “This sentence serves as a warning to individuals like the defendant that there are real consequences to participating in these cruel scams. This Office and our law enforcement partners are committed to bringing these fraudsters to justice and getting the victims’ money back.”

  • Muslim victims of helicopter crash to be buried today

    Muslim victims of helicopter crash to be buried today

    Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, the two Muslims who were part of the eight lives lost in the helicopter crash will be laid to rest today in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    On Sunday, August 10, at 2pm, Muslim Jannaza prayers will be offered at the forecourt of State House. At 2:30pm on the same day, they will be buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra.

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 took place yesterday.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” took place at the Forecourt of the State House.

    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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • Security agencies to manhunt anyone in possession of helicopter parts, belongings after August 11

    Security agencies to manhunt anyone in possession of helicopter parts, belongings after August 11

    The Ashanti Regional Co-ordinating Council (ARCC) has noted that any person found in possession of helicopter parts and other items at the scene of the tragic helicopter crash that happened on Wednesday, 6th August, 2025, after August 11, will be deemed a criminal and will face the full rigours of the law.

    The ARCC has admonished any person in possession of any part of the helicopter or belongings recovered to return these items.

    Intelligence gathered indicates that some of the residents who were first picked some parts of the helicopter and other belongings at the scene.

    The ARCC is offering a cash reward for any person who willingly returns any item. This offer will be in place until the close of day, Monday, 11th August, 2025.

    This includes all items no matter how small, such as metals, screws, drives or boards.

    Items could be handed over to the Unit Committee, Assembly Member, Municipal or District Chief Executives, or any member of the investigating team on the ground.

    Meanwhile, the government, Yogbun Wura and Ndan Ya Naa, the National Chief Imam, Leader of the Ambariya Sunni Group, the Families of the late Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed have announced the burial rites of the two Muslims who were part of the eight lives lost in the helicopter crash in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    On Sunday, August 10, at 2pm, Muslim Jannaza prayers will be offered at the forecourt of State House. At 2:30pm on the same day, they will be buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra.

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 is scheduled for today.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM.

    The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    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 yesterday 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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for six out of the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • ARCC offers cash reward for return of helicopter parts, belongings at crash site

    ARCC offers cash reward for return of helicopter parts, belongings at crash site

    The Ashanti Regional Co-ordinating Council (ARCC) has admonished any person in possession of any part of the helicopter or belongings recovered at the scene of the tragic helicopter crash that happened on Wednesday, 6th August, 2025,to return these items.

    Intelligence gathered indicates that some of the residents who were firstpicked some parts of the helicopter and other belongings at the scene.

    The ARCC is offering a cash reward for any person who willingly returns any item. This offer will be in place until the close of day, Monday, 11th August, 2025.

    This includes all items no matter how small, such as metals, screws, drives or boards.

    Items could be handed over to the Unit Committee, Assembly Member, Municipal or District Chief Executives, or any member of the investigating team on the ground.

    According to the ARCC, any person found in possession of such items beyond the above date would be deemed a criminal and will face the full rigours of the law.

    Meanwhile, the government, Yogbun Wura and Ndan Ya Naa, the National Chief Imam, Leader of the Ambariya Sunni Group, the Families of the late Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed have announced the burial rites of the two Muslims who were part of the eight lives lost in the helicopter crash in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    On Sunday, August 10, at 2pm, Muslim Jannaza prayers will be offered at the forecourt of State House. At 2:30pm on the same day, they will be buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra.

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 is scheduled for today.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM.

    The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    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 yesterday 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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for six out of the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • Murtala Mohammed, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed to be laid to rest on August 10

    Murtala Mohammed, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed to be laid to rest on August 10

    The government, Yogbun Wura and Ndan Ya Naa, the National Chief Imam, Leader of the Ambariya Sunni Group, the Families of the late Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed have announced the burial rites of the two Muslims who were part of the eight lives lost in the helicopter crash in accordance with Islamic Tradition, Custom and Practices.

    On Sunday, August 10, at 2pm, Muslim Jannaza prayers will be offered at the forecourt of State House. At 2:30pm on the same day, they will be buried at the Military Cemetery, Accra.

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 is scheduled for today.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM.

    The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    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 yesterday 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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • LIVESTREAMING: Evening of reflections and memorials for victims of helicopter crash happens today

    LIVESTREAMING: Evening of reflections and memorials for victims of helicopter crash happens today

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 is happening this evening.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM.

    The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    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 yesterday August 8.

    It was held at the Ceremonial Garden, Presidency.

  • Public must be educated on evidence preservation – Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences

    Public must be educated on evidence preservation – Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences

    President of the Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences, Dr Pet-Paul Wepeba, has called on the relevant authorities to educate the general public on preservation of evidence to ensure investigations are not compromised.

    He made the comment in reaction to the handling of the scene of the tragic helicopter crash. Following the confirmation of the tragic accident on August 6, several media houses shared footage and videos of the tragic scene, with others shooting footage of the removal and movement of the deceased’s remains in a sack.

    He absolved the rural dwellers in the Ashanti Region from blame for tampering with evidence by the actions. He noted that such a situation would not have arisen if they had been properly educated on how to act in such circumstances.

    “The villagers cannot be faulted for taking the debris of the crash away. We, however, need to educate the populace on evidence preservation.”

    “National education on this… stop people from moving into these areas and rather causes more harm than good. The way they carried the remains was problematic,” he said in a media interview.

    He vehemently condemned the use of sacks to convey the remains of the eight individuals who lost their lives after the airforce helicopter Z9 crashed at Sikakrom in the Ashanti Region.

    Dr Pet-Paul Wepeba in a media interview, noted that it was an undignified move to decide to commute the deceased in a sack. He also noted that such an action contravenes international best practices, where body bags are utilized instead of a sack that poses health concerns and could tamper with the DNA of the deceased.

    “When it comes to the bodies that were transported, they are humans, for heaven’s sake. For that matter, the situation where they were put in sacks and transported is not a good practice; it doesn’t add up. International best practices, or even in our country, dictate that when situations of this nature occur, we have body bags which come with zips and do not leak. That is dignity. But that wasn’t done,” he said.

    According to him, “there are pathogenic organisms that may have gotten to these individuals who carried them,” and thus reiterating that “there is some degree of public health hazards associated with it.”

    “If we had the proper capacity, and there are institutions such as NADMO, police, and the others, they would know what to do when situations such as these arise,” Dr Pet-Paul Wepeba added.

    The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations (MoCDTI), in the spirit of solidarity, has entreated members of the general public to desist from circulating videos of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash, including photos of the charred remains of the deceased.

    In a Short Message Service (SMS), the Ministry noted that “we have become aware of videos and photos circulating on social media of a helicopter crash and the burning bodies of some victims.”

    “We ask that, out of respect to the individuals involved, circulation of these videos and photos should stop immediately and all copies deleted. We count on your cooperation,” the ministry added, while extending its condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident. “Our prayers are with the families and friends of those impacted,” the Ministry stated.

    In the same vein, Deputy Government Spokesperson Shamima Muslim has made a plea to the media to be considerate in their coverage of the tragic military helicopter crash.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent developments

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 is scheduled for today.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM. 

    The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    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 continues yesterday 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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President  John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • Main suspect in murder of immigration officer remanded for 2 weeks

    Main suspect in murder of immigration officer remanded for 2 weeks

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

    The court has adjourned the case to 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.

  • Use of sacks to convey deceased in helicopter crash undignified, poses health risks – Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences

    Use of sacks to convey deceased in helicopter crash undignified, poses health risks – Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences

    President of the Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences, Dr Pet-Paul Wepeba, has condemned the use of sacks to convey the remains of the eight individuals who lost their lives after the airforce helicopter Z9 crashed at Sikakrom in the Ashanti Region.

    Following the confirmation of the tragic accident on August 6, several media houses shared footage and videos of the tragic scene, with others shooting footage of the removal and movement of the deceased’s remains in a sack. This has been condemned by many individuals.

    Dr Pet-Paul Wepeba in a media interview, noted that it was an undignified move to decide to commute the deceased in a sack. He also noted that such an action contravenes international best practices, where body bags are utilized instead of a sack that poses health concerns and could tamper with the DNA of the deceased.

    “When it comes to the bodies that were transported, they are humans, for heaven’s sake. For that matter, the situation where they were put in sacks and transported is not a good practice; it doesn’t add up. International best practices, or even in our country, dictate that when situations of this nature occur, we have body bags which come with zips and do not leak. That is dignity. But that wasn’t done,” he said.

    According to him, “there are pathogenic organisms that may have gotten to these individuals who carried them,” and thus reiterating that “there is some degree of public health hazards associated with it.”

    “If we had the proper capacity, and there are institutions such as NADMO, police, and the others, they would know what to do when situations such as these arise,” Dr Pet-Paul Wepeba added.

    The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations (MoCDTI), in the spirit of solidarity, has entreated members of the general public to desist from circulating videos of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash, including photos of the charred remains of the deceased.

    In a Short Message Service (SMS), the Ministry noted that “we have become aware of videos and photos circulating on social media of a helicopter crash and the burning bodies of some victims.”

    “We ask that, out of respect to the individuals involved, circulation of these videos and photos should stop immediately and all copies deleted. We count on your cooperation,” the ministry added, while extending its condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident. “Our prayers are with the families and friends of those impacted,” the Ministry stated.

    In the same vein, Deputy Government Spokesperson Shamima Muslim has made a plea to the media to be considerate in their coverage of the tragic military helicopter crash.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent developments

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 is scheduled for today.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM. 

    The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    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 continues yesterday 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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President  John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • ‘I was supposed to be on the flight that crashed’ – Asiedu Nketiah

    ‘I was supposed to be on the flight that crashed’ – Asiedu Nketiah

    Chairman of the ruling party, National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, popularly known as General Mosquito, has revealed that if not for a last-minute decision, he would have been among the eight individuals who lost their lives on August 6, after the Ghana Armed Forces’ helicopter crashed in the Ashanti Region.

    He noted that he was to have been part of the team that travelled for the launch of the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (COMSDEP) in Obuasi. However, he directed the party’s vice chairman, Samuel Sarpong, to attend in his steed.

    “Allah does what he wants. I was supposed to be on the flight, and last minute, I directed my vice chairman, who is Dr Sarpong, that he should go and stand in for the party, and he accepted it,” he stated.

    He added: “In your human ways, you may be thinking that if I had not sent Sarpong, maybe he would be here. But who knows? God might have decided that if this is his time, he will be knocked down by some trotro in Accra. So, we don’t question what Allah wants to do… So, in all things, we give thanks to him.”

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent developments

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 is scheduled for today.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM. 

    The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    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 continues yesterday 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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President  John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • Evening of reflections and memorials for victims of helicopter crash happens today

    Evening of reflections and memorials for victims of helicopter crash happens today

    The final day of the mourning period for the eight individuals who lost their lives as a result of a helicopter crash on August 6 is scheduled for today.

    The event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM.

    The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    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 yesterday 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.

    The government released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • Finance Ministry calls for input from public for 2026-2029 budget

    Finance Ministry calls for input from public for 2026-2029 budget

    The Ministry of Finance is requesting inputs from the general public for consideration into the 2026-2029 National Budget.

    The inputs are to be submitted electronically to bdru@mofep.gov.gh by close of business on Friday, 29th August, 2025.

    This call is in line with Government’s responsiveness to the needs of the Ghanaian citizenry to deepen citizens’ participation in the budget process as well as implement inclusive policies.

    The Ministry of Finance expressed its appreciation to the Business Associations, Recognized Professional Bodies, Financial Institutions, Civil Society Organizations, Faith Based Organizations and the general public for their invaluable contributions to the development of the National Budget over the years.

    The ministry has begun the process of developing the 2026-2029 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to be presented to Parliament on November 15.


    Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson last month revealed that the Mahama-led administration will present its 2026 budget and economic statement to Parliament in October 2025, instead of November 2025.

    He noted that the timeline for the presentation of the budget will aid thorough deliberation, allowing room for alterations before the budget comes into force from the beginning of 2026.

    “We are aiming to present the 2026 budget to Parliament by the end of October 2025. Preparations are already underway. We want to avoid the delays and uncertainties of the past. This government is committed to proper planning and transparency,” he disclosed during an appearance on a special edition of PM EXPRESS with host Evans Mensah on July 24.

    The Finance Minister explained that this should also help government programmes and initiatives to fully take off immediately from the beginning of next year. The presentation of the year ahead’s budget is per the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921) of Ghana, which was passed by Parliament and assented to on August 25, 2016, and it governs how public funds are managed across all government entities.

    The Act mandates that the Finance Minister, acting on behalf of the President, lay before Parliament, not later than the 15th of November of each financial year, estimates of the revenues and expenditures of the government.

    When asked about the government’s review of the 2025 budget targets, Dr Forson, without mincing words, outrightly warned that the government wants to tread cautiously. “We want to remain cautiously optimistic rather than behave that we have gotten there. We have not gotten out of the woods yet,” Dr. Forson added.

    He was, however, optimistic that Ghana would now achieve the 11.9% inflation target before the end of this year. “I am of the firm belief that by the end of the year, we will be entering single digits—for a reason. Based on the trajectory, we are now at 13.7%. The Producer Price Inflation, for example, moved from 10-point-something to 5.9% last month. And based on that, I expect that next month inflation will go down, and if it does, then I believe that by the end of December, we should be able to achieve that.” Dr Forson said.

    Concerning growth and other indicators, he insisted that the government will stick to what was announced earlier this year. “We are not changing course. The growth target, the fiscal deficit, the inflation target—all of it remains as announced in the 2025 Budget. We are sticking to it.” “The economy is responding well. We’ve seen 5.3% GDP growth in Q1, inflation is falling, and the cedi is stable. So there’s no need to revise the framework.”

    His comments come a few weeks after the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) announced the sixth consecutive reduction in the inflation rate this year so far. According to GSS, as of June, the country recorded a 13.7 percent rate, a 4.7 percent decline from the 18.4 percent rate reported in May. This is also the lowest rate recorded since February 2022. Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, following data released on July 2, noted that the reduction in rate was due to the decline in prices of foodstuffs and items.

    “The downward inflationary trend over the last 6 months provides some consistency and assurance of a real, sustained shift in prices,” Dr Alhassan said. Due to the appreciation of the cedi, the prices of goods and services have seen a relative decline. Food inflation fell by 6.5 percentage points to 16.3 percent, down from 22.8 percent in May, whereas non-food inflation dropped by 3 percentage points to 11.4 percent.

    Ghana ended the year 2024 with 23.8% inflation. In January 2025, inflation slightly declined to 23.5%. And since then, it has continued to ease. In February, inflation declined to 23.1%; it saw another decrease in March to 22.4% and declined again in April to 21.2%.

    With the 2025 macroeconomic targets being real GDP growth of at least 4.0%, non-oil real GDP growth of at least 4.8%, an end-year inflation rate of 11.9%, a primary balance on a commitment basis at a surplus of 1.5% of GDP, and gross international reserves covering not less than three months of imports, the Finance Minister noted that “the first half of 2025 has demonstrated the government’s commitment to recovery.”

    He noted that the government does not intend to just run the economy but to make the necessary changes and effect lasting growth. “This government did not come to simply manage the decline. We came to reverse it and reset our country. The signs of recovery are obvious, evident, noticeable, visible, tangible and being felt” he noted.

    The minister’s appearance on JoyNews was after he had presented the 2025 Midyear Budget Review on the floor of Parliament earlier on July 24. The presentation of the budget is by Section 28 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), to inform the country on its economic performance and fiscal strategy halfway through the year.

    The Ghana cedi, the minister noted, had seen a remarkable appreciation against major trading currencies worldwide over the past six months. During the presentation of the 2025 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review on July 24, the Minister revealed that the cedi has recorded a remarkable turnaround in the first six months of 2025, appreciating by 42.6% against the US dollar. 

    Dr Forson described the cedi’s performance as “impressive” and the first of its kind in the history of Ghana’s economy. The cedi, which was initially always experiencing depreciation, is currently showing resilience against the dollar. He noted that the cedi, which was previously trading at about GH¢17.0 to the US dollar, had strengthened to GH¢10.4 as of July 23.

    “Mr. Speaker, the cedi’s performance in the first half of this year has been impressive! The Ghana cedi experienced significant appreciation against all major trading currencies in the first six months of 2025. I am happy to inform the House that our precious cedi, which once upon a time was trading at about GH¢17.0 to the US dollar, was trading at about GH¢10.4 as of yesterday, 23rd July, 2025,” he revealed.

    In high spirits, the minister adopted the catchphrase from Ghanaian highlife musician King Paluta’s energetic party anthem “For the Popping (Apicki),” released on December 27, 2024, and said, “This level of appreciation of the Ghana cedi has never happened in the history of our nation. Ghanafo, cedi no apicki! Apicki apicki apicki!”

    He continued that the strength of the cedi has not appreciated against just the US dollar but against the British pound as well. The cedi also gained 30.3% against the British pound and 25.6% against the euro during the same period. This marks a sharp contrast to the same period in 2024, when the cedi depreciated by 18.6% against the dollar, 17.9% against the pound, and 16.0% against the euro.

    “Similarly, the cedi, which was once trading at GH¢21.0 to the Great British Pound, was trading at about GH¢14.1 as of yesterday, 23rd July, 2025. Mr. Speaker, as of end-June 2025, the cedi appreciated by 42.6% against the US dollar, 30.3% against the British pound, and 25.6% against the euro,” he added.

    With these gains over the past few months, Dr Cassiel stated that all the losses in the previous years had been reversed. “Mr. Speaker, I repeat, so far, we have almost reversed all the cedi depreciation in 2022, 2023, and 2024,” he mentioned.

  • Finance Minister to present 2026-2029 budget on Nov. 15

    Finance Minister to present 2026-2029 budget on Nov. 15

    The Ministry of Finance has noted that it has commenced the process of developing the 2026-2029 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to be presented to Parliament on November 15.

    The ministry is requesting inputs from the general public for consideration into the 2026-2029 National Budget.

    The inputs are to be submitted electronically to bdru@mofep.gov.gh by close of business on Friday, 29th August, 2025.

    This call is in line with Government’s responsiveness to the needs of the Ghanaian citizenry to deepen citizens’ participation in the budget process as well as implement inclusive policies.

    The Ministry of Finance expressed its appreciation to the Business Associations, Recognized Professional Bodies, Financial Institutions, Civil Society Organizations, Faith Based Organizations and the general public for their invaluable contributions to the development of the National Budget over the years.


    Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson last month revealed that the Mahama-led administration will present its 2026 budget and economic statement to Parliament in October 2025, instead of November 2025.

    He noted that the timeline for the presentation of the budget will aid thorough deliberation, allowing room for alterations before the budget comes into force from the beginning of 2026.

    “We are aiming to present the 2026 budget to Parliament by the end of October 2025. Preparations are already underway. We want to avoid the delays and uncertainties of the past. This government is committed to proper planning and transparency,” he disclosed during an appearance on a special edition of PM EXPRESS with host Evans Mensah on July 24.

    The Finance Minister explained that this should also help government programmes and initiatives to fully take off immediately from the beginning of next year. The presentation of the year ahead’s budget is per the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921) of Ghana, which was passed by Parliament and assented to on August 25, 2016, and it governs how public funds are managed across all government entities.

    The Act mandates that the Finance Minister, acting on behalf of the President, lay before Parliament, not later than the 15th of November of each financial year, estimates of the revenues and expenditures of the government.

    When asked about the government’s review of the 2025 budget targets, Dr Forson, without mincing words, outrightly warned that the government wants to tread cautiously. “We want to remain cautiously optimistic rather than behave that we have gotten there. We have not gotten out of the woods yet,” Dr. Forson added.

    He was, however, optimistic that Ghana would now achieve the 11.9% inflation target before the end of this year. “I am of the firm belief that by the end of the year, we will be entering single digits—for a reason. Based on the trajectory, we are now at 13.7%. The Producer Price Inflation, for example, moved from 10-point-something to 5.9% last month. And based on that, I expect that next month inflation will go down, and if it does, then I believe that by the end of December, we should be able to achieve that.” Dr Forson said.

    Concerning growth and other indicators, he insisted that the government will stick to what was announced earlier this year. “We are not changing course. The growth target, the fiscal deficit, the inflation target—all of it remains as announced in the 2025 Budget. We are sticking to it.” “The economy is responding well. We’ve seen 5.3% GDP growth in Q1, inflation is falling, and the cedi is stable. So there’s no need to revise the framework.”

    His comments come a few weeks after the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) announced the sixth consecutive reduction in the inflation rate this year so far. According to GSS, as of June, the country recorded a 13.7 percent rate, a 4.7 percent decline from the 18.4 percent rate reported in May. This is also the lowest rate recorded since February 2022. Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, following data released on July 2, noted that the reduction in rate was due to the decline in prices of foodstuffs and items.

    “The downward inflationary trend over the last 6 months provides some consistency and assurance of a real, sustained shift in prices,” Dr Alhassan said. Due to the appreciation of the cedi, the prices of goods and services have seen a relative decline. Food inflation fell by 6.5 percentage points to 16.3 percent, down from 22.8 percent in May, whereas non-food inflation dropped by 3 percentage points to 11.4 percent.

    Ghana ended the year 2024 with 23.8% inflation. In January 2025, inflation slightly declined to 23.5%. And since then, it has continued to ease. In February, inflation declined to 23.1%; it saw another decrease in March to 22.4% and declined again in April to 21.2%.

    With the 2025 macroeconomic targets being real GDP growth of at least 4.0%, non-oil real GDP growth of at least 4.8%, an end-year inflation rate of 11.9%, a primary balance on a commitment basis at a surplus of 1.5% of GDP, and gross international reserves covering not less than three months of imports, the Finance Minister noted that “the first half of 2025 has demonstrated the government’s commitment to recovery.”

    He noted that the government does not intend to just run the economy but to make the necessary changes and effect lasting growth. “This government did not come to simply manage the decline. We came to reverse it and reset our country. The signs of recovery are obvious, evident, noticeable, visible, tangible and being felt” he noted.

    The minister’s appearance on JoyNews was after he had presented the 2025 Midyear Budget Review on the floor of Parliament earlier on July 24. The presentation of the budget is by Section 28 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), to inform the country on its economic performance and fiscal strategy halfway through the year.

    The Ghana cedi, the minister noted, had seen a remarkable appreciation against major trading currencies worldwide over the past six months. During the presentation of the 2025 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review on July 24, the Minister revealed that the cedi has recorded a remarkable turnaround in the first six months of 2025, appreciating by 42.6% against the US dollar. 

    Dr Forson described the cedi’s performance as “impressive” and the first of its kind in the history of Ghana’s economy. The cedi, which was initially always experiencing depreciation, is currently showing resilience against the dollar. He noted that the cedi, which was previously trading at about GH¢17.0 to the US dollar, had strengthened to GH¢10.4 as of July 23.

    “Mr. Speaker, the cedi’s performance in the first half of this year has been impressive! The Ghana cedi experienced significant appreciation against all major trading currencies in the first six months of 2025. I am happy to inform the House that our precious cedi, which once upon a time was trading at about GH¢17.0 to the US dollar, was trading at about GH¢10.4 as of yesterday, 23rd July, 2025,” he revealed.

    In high spirits, the minister adopted the catchphrase from Ghanaian highlife musician King Paluta’s energetic party anthem “For the Popping (Apicki),” released on December 27, 2024, and said, “This level of appreciation of the Ghana cedi has never happened in the history of our nation. Ghanafo, cedi no apicki! Apicki apicki apicki!”

    He continued that the strength of the cedi has not appreciated against just the US dollar but against the British pound as well. The cedi also gained 30.3% against the British pound and 25.6% against the euro during the same period. This marks a sharp contrast to the same period in 2024, when the cedi depreciated by 18.6% against the dollar, 17.9% against the pound, and 16.0% against the euro.

    “Similarly, the cedi, which was once trading at GH¢21.0 to the Great British Pound, was trading at about GH¢14.1 as of yesterday, 23rd July, 2025. Mr. Speaker, as of end-June 2025, the cedi appreciated by 42.6% against the US dollar, 30.3% against the British pound, and 25.6% against the euro,” he added.

    With these gains over the past few months, Dr Cassiel stated that all the losses in the previous years had been reversed. “Mr. Speaker, I repeat, so far, we have almost reversed all the cedi depreciation in 2022, 2023, and 2024,” he mentioned.  

  • Titus Glover, Vondee Omanhene, Kwabena Asante break down on live TV

    Titus Glover, Vondee Omanhene, Kwabena Asante break down on live TV

    Former Deputy Transport Minister and Member of Parliament for Tema East, Titus Nii Kwartei Glover; David Theophilus Dominic Vondee, the Member of Parliament for Twifo Atti Morkwa; and media personality Omanhene Kwabena Asante broke down on live TV while reacting to the recent helicopter crash that claimed the lives of 8 people on August 6.

    The three individuals could not hold back the tears as they watched a video of their remains being transported in a sack.

    Many Ghanaians are grieving the demise of eight individuals who lost their lives following the tragic helicopter crash in the general area of Sikaman near Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region.

    The deceased are Minister for Defence, Dr Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who is the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed—Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, former Parliamentary candidate; Squadron leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Mensah.

    The news came as a shock to many, and several individuals could not hold back their tears. Interior Minister, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak broke down in tears as the Chief of Staff announced the death of the individuals at the Jubilee House yesterday.

    Edward Bawa, former Member of Parliament for Bongo and current CEO and Managing Director of GOIL PLC who was at the residence of the late Murtala Mohammed, could not hold back his tears while engaging a journalist.

    Also, Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine broke down in tears at Hon. Murtala’s residence while engaging the media.

    https://www.facebook.com/watch?v=4122668064677407

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has declared three days of national mourning in honour of the victims.

    Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has directed that all flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice.

    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.

    Recent development

    The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations (MoCDTI), in the spirit of solidarity, has entreated members of the general public to desist from circulating videos of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash, including photos of the charred remains of the deceased.

    In a Short Message Service (SMS), the Ministry noted that “we have become aware of videos and photos circulating on social media of a helicopter crash and the burning bodies of some victims.”

    “We ask that, out of respect to the individuals involved, circulation of these videos and photos should stop immediately and all copies deleted. We count on your cooperation,” the ministry added, while extending its condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident. “Our prayers are with the families and friends of those impacted,” the Ministry stated.

    In the same vein, Deputy Government Spokesperson Shamima Muslim has made a plea to the media to be considerate in their coverage of the tragic military helicopter crash.

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    The government has released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    “Government wishes to announce programmes for the three days of national mourning, from Thursday, 7 August, to Saturday, 9 August 2025. This solemn period is dedicated to honouring the departed and providing an opportunity for national reflection and remembrance,” the statement mentioned.

    On the first day of mourning, which began yesterday, 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 event continues today, August 8, and although no time was provided, it is presumed to be open throughout the day for public participation. It will still be held at the Ceremonial Garden, Presidency. This is anticipated to provide more time and space for citizens unable to attend Day 1 to pay their respects and join the national act of mourning.

    The final day of the mourning period is scheduled for Saturday, marked by an event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials.” It will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM. The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • LIVESTREAMING: Laying of flowers and lighting of candles to honour helicopter crash victims underway

    LIVESTREAMING: Laying of flowers and lighting of candles to honour helicopter crash victims underway

    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 continues today, August 8.

    It will still be held at the Ceremonial Garden, Presidency. This is anticipated to provide more time and space for citizens unable to attend Day 1 to pay their respects and join the national act of mourning.

    On the first day of mourning, which began yesterday, 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 government has released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    “Government wishes to announce programmes for the three days of national mourning, from Thursday, 7 August, to Saturday, 9 August 2025. This solemn period is dedicated to honouring the departed and providing an opportunity for national reflection and remembrance,” the statement mentioned.

    The final day of the mourning period is scheduled for Saturday, marked by an event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials.” It will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM. The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

  • BoG postpones launch of the Cedi@60 Anniversary activities

    BoG postpones launch of the Cedi@60 Anniversary activities

    The Bank of Ghana has announced the postponement of the national launch of the Cedi@60 Anniversary activities, which was scheduled for Friday, 8th August 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre.

    The launch has been postponed until further notice. In a statement, the central bank noted that this decision stems from the tragic death of two ministers of state and six others in a helicopter crash which occurred on 6th August 2025, and the subsequent declaration of a three-day National Mourning by His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama.

    “The Bank appreciates the understanding and cooperation of all its stakeholders and the general public during this period of national mourning,” the statement added.

    https://twitter.com/thebankofghana/status/1953419029072208300/photo/1

    Background

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this 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.

    Recent development

    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 have been 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.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

    The government has released the itinerary for the three days of national mourning declared by the presidency on Wednesday in honour of the departed souls who were involved in the fatal helicopter crash at Adansi on August 6.

    In a statement dated August 7, the Presidency declared that the period has been dedicated to honouring the eight who died while en route to fulfil an official duty. It added that it is a period to reflect and remember these comrades as a nation.

    “Government wishes to announce programmes for the three days of national mourning, from Thursday, 7 August, to Saturday, 9 August 2025. This solemn period is dedicated to honouring the departed and providing an opportunity for national reflection and remembrance,” the statement mentioned.

    On the first day of mourning, which began yesterday, 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 event continues today, August 8, and although no time was provided, it is presumed to be open throughout the day for public participation. It will still be held at the Ceremonial Garden, Presidency. This is anticipated to provide more time and space for citizens unable to attend Day 1 to pay their respects and join the national act of mourning.

    The final day of the mourning period is scheduled for Saturday, marked by an event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials.” It will take place at the Forecourt of the State House, starting promptly at 5:00 PM. The event is open to all Ghanaians, including the general public, friends, and family of the departed. “We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect,” the Presidency entreated.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    President John Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. The president further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    The president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

  • This is not a time for division, speculation, political point-scoring – President Mahama tells Ghanaians

    This is not a time for division, speculation, political point-scoring – President Mahama tells Ghanaians

    President John Dramani Mahama has called on all and sundry to stand united as the nation mourns the eight departed souls who lost their lives on August 6 after the airforce helicopter Z9 that they were travelling by crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.

    Addressing the nation on Thursday night, August 7, a day after the tragic incident, he noted that “this is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring.”

    According to him, “It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails,” adding that “Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    “To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president further remarked.

    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.

    President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that on Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held at the Black Star Square for the eight individuals who lost their lives.

    “All eight of the bodies of our departed comrades have been retrieved, and the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about identification of the bodies and final interment,” he said.

    As the nation mourns the eight gallant citizens, books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    The President has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. He further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    According to President John Dramani Mahama, this tragedy represents a deep personal loss for him, as he shared close bonds with many of these individuals who died. 

    “Our nation is grieving. On behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. Know that our entire country mourns with you. We share your pain. Your loss is our loss—a loss of dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who relentlessly worked for a better Ghana,” he added.

    Meanwhile, 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 have been 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.

    The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations (MoCDTI), in the spirit of solidarity, has entreated members of the general public to desist from circulating videos of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash, including photos of the charred remains of the deceased.

    As the nation mourns, words of consolation have been shared by the international community. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said the loss was not just Ghana’s but Africa’s. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan called the ministers “committed public servants” whose legacy should inspire future generations.

    The African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina described the tragedy as “devastating.” The United Nations in Ghana, through Resident Coordinator Zia Choudhury, mourned the loss as a “national wound” and pledged continued support for Ghana during its mourning period. Kenyan President William Ruto extended condolences and assured Ghana of Kenya’s prayers and solidarity.

  • GAF helicopter crash: Flight data and cockpit voice recorders retrieved

    GAF helicopter crash: Flight data and cockpit voice recorders retrieved

    President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders of the airforce helicopter Z9 that crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on August 6 have been retrieved.

    He made this known when he addressed the nation on Thursday night, August 7, a day after the tragic incident.

    The president assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals on August 6.

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed.

    He acknowledged that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    As the relevant authorities probe the circumstances of the death 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, the president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals at the Black Star Square.

    “All eight of the bodies of our departed comrades have been retrieved, and the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about identification of the bodies and final interment,” he said.

    As the nation mourns the eight gallant citizens, books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    According to President John Dramani Mahama, this tragedy represents a deep personal loss for him, as he shared close bonds with many of these individuals who died. 

    “Our nation is grieving. On behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. Know that our entire country mourns with you. We share your pain. Your loss is our loss—a loss of dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who relentlessly worked for a better Ghana,” he added.

    Meanwhile, 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 have been 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.

    The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations (MoCDTI), in the spirit of solidarity, has entreated members of the general public to desist from circulating videos of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash, including photos of the charred remains of the deceased.

    As the nation mourns, words of consolation have been shared by the international community. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said the loss was not just Ghana’s but Africa’s. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan called the ministers “committed public servants” whose legacy should inspire future generations.

    The African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina described the tragedy as “devastating.” The United Nations in Ghana, through Resident Coordinator Zia Choudhury, mourned the loss as a “national wound” and pledged continued support for Ghana during its mourning period. Kenyan President William Ruto extended condolences and assured Ghana of Kenya’s prayers and solidarity.

  • President Mahama pledges transparent probe into GAF helicopter accident

    President Mahama pledges transparent probe into GAF helicopter accident

    President John Dramani Mahama has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals on August 6

    He made this known when he addressed the nation on Thursday night, August 7, a day after the tragic incident, after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. He further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    As the relevant authorities probe the circumstances of the death 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, the president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

    On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals at the Black Star Square.

    “All eight of the bodies of our departed comrades have been retrieved, and the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about identification of the bodies and final interment,” he said.

    As the nation mourns the eight gallant citizens, books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    According to President John Dramani Mahama, this tragedy represents a deep personal loss for him, as he shared close bonds with many of these individuals who died. 

    “Our nation is grieving. On behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. Know that our entire country mourns with you. We share your pain. Your loss is our loss—a loss of dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who relentlessly worked for a better Ghana,” he added.

    Meanwhile, 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 have been 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.

    The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations (MoCDTI), in the spirit of solidarity, has entreated members of the general public to desist from circulating videos of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash, including photos of the charred remains of the deceased.

    As the nation mourns, words of consolation have been shared by the international community. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said the loss was not just Ghana’s but Africa’s. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan called the ministers “committed public servants” whose legacy should inspire future generations.

    The African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina described the tragedy as “devastating.” The United Nations in Ghana, through Resident Coordinator Zia Choudhury, mourned the loss as a “national wound” and pledged continued support for Ghana during its mourning period. Kenyan President William Ruto extended condolences and assured Ghana of Kenya’s prayers and solidarity.

  • State funeral to be held for 8 fallen heroes on August 15 – President Mahama announces

    State funeral to be held for 8 fallen heroes on August 15 – President Mahama announces

    President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that on Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for the eight individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 6, at the Black Star Square.

    The president made this known when he addressed the nation on Thursday night, August 7, a day after the tragic incident. “All eight of the bodies of our departed comrades have been retrieved, and the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about identification of the bodies and final interment,” he said.

    As the nation mourns the eight gallant citizens, books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

    The President has assured the bereaved families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.

    He made this known after acknowledging that “as we mourn, questions about the cause of this tragedy are natural and important.”

    An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up to investigate the cause of the crash, the president revealed. He further informed Ghanaians that “the flight data and cockpitvoice recorders have been retrieved.” 

    As the relevant authorities probe the circumstances of the death 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, the president has called on all and sundry to stand united in this difficult time.

    “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.

    To the families, to the Ghana Armed Forces, to the Ministries and Departments that have lost dedicated staff, and to the National Democratic Congress, which mourns the passing of valued members, may you find strength in their memory and their legacy. May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the president remarked.

    According to President John Dramani Mahama, this tragedy represents a deep personal loss for him, as he shared close bonds with many of these individuals who died. 

    “Our nation is grieving. On behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. Know that our entire country mourns with you. We share your pain. Your loss is our loss—a loss of dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who relentlessly worked for a better Ghana,” he added.

    Meanwhile, 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 have been 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.

    The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations (MoCDTI), in the spirit of solidarity, has entreated members of the general public to desist from circulating videos of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash, including photos of the charred remains of the deceased.

    As the nation mourns, words of consolation have been shared by the international community. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said the loss was not just Ghana’s but Africa’s. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan called the ministers “committed public servants” whose legacy should inspire future generations.

    The African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina described the tragedy as “devastating.” The United Nations in Ghana, through Resident Coordinator Zia Choudhury, mourned the loss as a “national wound” and pledged continued support for Ghana during its mourning period. Kenyan President William Ruto extended condolences and assured Ghana of Kenya’s prayers and solidarity.

  • VIDEO: President Mahama engages public after tragic helicopter crash

    VIDEO: President Mahama engages public after tragic helicopter crash

    The President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, has addressed the nation following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed 8 lives at Adansi in the Ashanti Region.

    Ghana as a whole is mourning the tragic loss of eight individuals after a helicopter crash in the general area of Sikaman near Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region. Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has declared three days of national mourning in honour of the victims.

    Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has directed that all flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice. Engaging the general public on August 6, Julius Debrah revealed the identities of the deceased individuals after the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this morning at 0912 hrs from Accra and headed for Obuasi, was off the radar.

    The President and government have extended their condolences and sympathies to the family of the comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country. President John Dramani Mahama has suspended all his scheduled activities and programmes for the rest of the week, following Wednesday’s national tragedy.

  • Tullow Oil posts $524m revenue in H1 2025 as Ghana operations take shape

    Tullow Oil posts $524m revenue in H1 2025 as Ghana operations take shape

    Tullow Oil plc has, in a statement dated August 6, reported total group revenue of $524 million for the first half of 2025.

    The revenue covering the period ending June 30 represents a significant drop from the $759 million recorded during the same period in 2024. Per the statement, this was due to the sale of the company’s Gabonese assets and reduced production volumes across its portfolio. 

    Excluding contributions from Gabon, revenue for the first half of 2025 stands at $411 million, compared to $666 million in the first half of 2024. The company reported an average oil price of $69.0 per barrel after hedging, down from $77.7 per barrel the previous year. Excluding Gabon, the price was slightly higher at $69.7 per barrel but still lower than the $77.0 per barrel in the prior year. 

    As a result, gross profit fell to $218 million (from $460 million in 2024) and further declined to $165 million when Gabon is excluded (from $387 million in 2024). Tullow reported a loss after tax of $61 million for the period, compared to a profit of $196 million in the same period last year. Without Gabon, the post-tax loss widened to $80 million, against a previous profit of $106 million.

    The statement noted that Tullow’s average working interest production was 50,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (kboepd) in the first half of 2025, down from 63.7 kboepd in 2024. Excluding Gabon, production dropped to 40.6 kboepd, compared to 53.5 kboepd last year. 

    The oil company recorded capital expenditure of $103 million (down from $157 million) and decommissioning spending of $13 million, an increase from $9 million. Free cash flow for the first half of the year stood at a negative $188 million. The company has attributed this to the timing of tax payments, lifting schedules, and Jubilee field maintenance.

    Tullow’s net debt position as of June 30, 2025, was $1.6 billion, slightly reduced from $1.7 billion a year earlier. However, the company’s cash gearing ratio increased to 1.9x net debt to EBITDAX, up from 1.4x in the previous year. 

    When adjusted for the sale of the Gabonese operations, the gearing rose to 2.1x. Liquidity headroom dropped significantly from $700 million to $200 million. Following the sale of its Gabonese subsidiary, Tullow used part of the $300 million proceeds to fully repay and cancel its $150 million Revolving Credit Facility (RCF).

    Nonetheless, Tullow saw progress on its strategic priorities. On July 29, the company completed the sale of Tullow Oil Gabon SA for $300 million in net cash. Additionally, on July 21, Tullow entered a sale and purchase agreement for Tullow Kenya BV for a minimum cash consideration of $120 million, with two milestone payments totaling $80 million expected before the end of the year.

    Richard Miller, Chief Financial Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer, Tullow Oil plc remarked: “Our 2025 strategic priorities remain clear: refinancing our capital structure, optimising production, increasing reserves, and completing the sale of our Kenyan assets, having already realised $300 million proceeds from the sale of our portfolio of assets in Gabon.”

    On June 4, Tullow signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Ghana on June 4, which extends Tullow’s key production licences for the Jubilee and TEN fields to the year 2040. The MoU includes a commitment to ramp up gas supply to approximately 130 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d) and introduces a guaranteed reimbursement mechanism for gas sales. These licence extensions are expected to significantly boost Tullow’s gross 2P reserves.

    Also, an International Chamber of Commerce Tribunal ruled in January that Ghana’s Branch Profit Remittance Tax (BPRT) does not apply to Tullow Ghana, relieving the company from a potential $320 million tax liability. Tullow has also commenced drilling activities to reverse recent underperformance at the Jubilee field. 

    The first of two planned 2025 production wells, the J72-P well, was brought onstream at the end of July and delivered better-than-expected net pay. The company is using high-quality 4D seismic data acquired earlier in the year to improve its well planning models and will begin capturing an Ocean Bottom Node (OBN) seismic survey in the fourth quarter to further enhance reservoir understanding.

    “In Ghana we have already taken actions to address the recent underperformance at Jubilee, with further optimisation potential identified. We have recommenced drilling and have successfully completed and brought onstream the first of two planned 2025 production wells at Jubilee, with better than expected net pay during drilling. The high quality 4D seismic data acquired at the start of the year is now being used to generate improved models that will directly inform the well-planning process and will be further supported with the capture of an Ocean Bottom Node (OBN) seismic survey in the fourth quarter this year,” Richard Miller, Chief Financial Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer, Tullow Oil plc, remarked.

    “We achieved a key milestone by signing an MoU in Ghana to extend our production licences for both Jubilee and TEN to 2040, which is expected to increase reserves and unlock significant value from these fields. In the second half of the year we are focused on refinancing our capital structure, production optimisation activities and continuing to optimise our cost base, which combined with the progress in the first half of the year, will help unlock Tullow’s intrinsic value,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Tullow has targeted its full-year production to average between 40,000 and 45,000 boepd, including approximately 6,000 boepd of gas. Capital expenditure guidance for the year has been revised to $185 million, with decommissioning spend expected to total $20 million. 

    The company is also working to optimise its cost base, targeting $10 million in savings for 2025, which would reduce annual net general and administrative costs to around $40 million. A broader three-year cost-saving goal of $50 million is also in place.

    Tullow has adjusted its free cash flow guidance for 2025 to $300 million, based on an oil price assumption of $65 per barrel. This projection includes $380 million in disposal proceeds, as well as $35 million in 2024 Gabonese taxes paid in 2025 and around $50 million in overdue gas payments from Ghana. 

    The company is maintaining its year-end net debt guidance of approximately $1.1 billion, with a target gearing ratio of 1.3x. Tullow says it remains committed to achieving net debt below $1 billion and gearing under 1x in the near future.

  • Asamankese road accident claims one life – report

    Asamankese road accident claims one life – report

    An accident at Asamankese in the Eastern Region on Wednesday, August 6, has reportedly claimed the life of an individual. Officials are yet to confirm any casualties.

    The unfortunate incident occurred after a tipper truck veered off its road, crashing into shops around the Dukes Filling Station. 

    According to sources, many other individuals sustained injuries. Reports have it that the tipper truck was overspeeding when it veered off the road. “It happened so fast—one moment the road was clear, the next, the truck was crashing into everything in its path,” an eyewitness recounted.

    Following the incident, it is said that emergency services went to the scene to rescue individuals who were trapped. Medical assistance was also provided, according to reports.

    Per reports, the Police Service has commenced investigations into the accident, with the driver of the tipper truck providing assistance. Local officials have reportedly given assurance of aiding the victims of the accident.

    Ghana has reported a surge in the number of fatalities recorded due to road crashes. In the first half of 2025, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) reported one thousand, five hundred and four (1,504) deaths, compared to one thousand, two hundred and thirty-seven (1,237) fatalities reported in the corresponding period in 2024, representing a 21.58 percent increase.

    According to provisional data released by the National Road Safety Authority in collaboration with the Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), a total of 7,289 road crashes were recorded between January and June this year.

    Per the data, a total of twelve thousand, three hundred and fifty-four (12,354) vehicles were involved in the road crashes. Owing to the road accidents, a total number of eight thousand, three hundred (8,300) individuals sustained injuries. Also, one thousand, three hundred and one (1,301) pedestrians were knocked down across the country.

    According to the recent data provided by the National Road Safety Authority, on average, eight (8) lives are lost every day due to road crashes. Each day, forty (40) road crashes are recorded, and forty-six (46) individuals sustain injuries. Daily, sixty-nine (69) vehicles and motorcycles are involved in road crashes.

    To aid in combating road crashes, the National Road Safety Authority has called for stern enforcement of traffic regulations and public education.

    The NRSA has called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and increased public education to help curb the rising number of road accidents across the country.

    The Road Traffic Act 2004, an Act to consolidate and revise the Road Traffic Ordinance, 1952 (No. 55), provides for a more comprehensive regulation of road traffic and road use, to ensure safety on the roads and to provide for related matters.

    A person who drives a motor vehicle dangerously on a road commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction, (a) where (i) a bodily injury does not occur, or (ii) a minor bodily injury does occur, to a person, other than the driver, to a fine not less than one hundred penalty units and not exceeding two hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding nine months or to both the fine and imprisonment;

    (b) where bodily injury of an aggravated nature occurs to a person, other than the driver, to a minimum fine of two hundred penalty units and not exceeding five hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment of not less than twelve months and not exceeding two years or to both the fine and the imprisonment; or (c) where death occurs, to a term of imprisonment for a term of not less than three years; (d) where there is damage to state property, to a fine of not less than one hundred penalty units and payment for the damage caused in an amount determined by the Court. 

    The Court may, on the conviction of a person under subsection (1), (a) order the payment of appropriate compensation to an injured person or to the estate of that person, or (b) order the withdrawal of the licence for a period of not less than three years and not more than five years. 

    A person who drives a motor vehicle on a road without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two thousand penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding five years or to both the fine and the imprisonment.

    A person commits an offence if without lawful authority or reasonable excuse, that person, (a) causes anything to be on or over a road, (b) interferes with a motor vehicle, trailer or cycle, or (c) interferes, directly or indirectly, with traffic equipment, where that it would be obvious to a reasonable person that to do so would be dangerous.

    A person who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two hundred and fifty penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding twelve months or to both the fine and the imprisonment.

  • Ghana’s Golden Arms grabs 53 medals at 14th African Armwrestling Championship

    Ghana’s Golden Arms grabs 53 medals at 14th African Armwrestling Championship

    The Ghanaian National Armwrestling team, known as the Golden Arms, provided an outstanding performance at the just-ended 14th African Armwrestling Championship, held in Nigeria at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium’s indoor sports hall.

    The championship held from July 22 to July 28, which brought together 19 nations from across the continent, saw Ghana win a total of fifty-three. This comprises twenty-four gold medals, twenty silver medals, and nine bronze medals across various weight classes in the junior, youth, and senior divisions.

    Acting Director of Corporate Affairs at the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Mr. Oswald Essuah-Mensah, represented the Authority at the event and took part in awarding medals to some of the victorious athletes.

    While highlighting the relevance of the support provided to the team by the National Health Insurance Authority, Mr. Essuah-Mensah said, “Supporting the Golden Arms aligns perfectly with the NHIA’s broader mandate of promoting health and wellness among Ghanaians. Sports serve not only as a platform for national pride but also as a vital channel for promoting preventive healthcare and encouraging active lifestyles, especially among young people.”

    “Armwrestling is rapidly emerging as a grassroots sport that instils discipline, resilience, and physical fitness—values essential to building a healthy nation. Our presence at the 14th African Armwrestling Championship and the provision of health coverage for the team demonstrate our commitment to supporting elite athletes, who deserve both national recognition and institutional support to safeguard their health while representing Ghana. We see this partnership as a meaningful investment in the future of sports and health development in Ghana,” he added.

    According to the NHIA, its involvement was part of Ghana’s ongoing commitment to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly promoting health and wellness among Ghanaian athletes. 

    “This gesture ensured that the team had access to essential health services and coverage while competing abroad. Ghana’s outstanding performance at the championship solidified its position as a force in African armwrestling, with athletes showcasing strength, resilience, and dedication to the sport,” the NHIA stated in a Facebook post.

    The Golden Arms are now poised to compete at the upcoming 46th World Armwrestling Championship, which will be held in Bulgaria in September 2025.

    Ahead of the championship, Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, has assured that Nigeria is fully ready to deliver a world-class experience at the Maiden Africa Armwrestling Championship Mascot Unveiling and Fundraising Gala.

    “The confirmation we’ve received from our high-profile guests shows we are on the right path. With the support of our leadership, our partners, and the people, I have no doubt that this will go down as one of the best-organized championships in African sporting history. Africa and the rest of the continent will experience a Nigeria that is ready, united, and proud,” he said.

    He added, “This is our moment. We are not just hosting Africa—we are inviting the world to witness what Nigerian sports can achieve when we unite purpose with passion.”

    In 2025 so far, several Ghanaian teams have put Ghana’s name in the limelight following their success in competitions.

    In May this year, Lance Corporal ( L/Cpl) Gabriel Owusu, a Prison Officer and the captain of the Ghana Weightlifting team on Tuesday May 6, presented the three silver medals he won during the African Senior Weightlifting Championship in Mauritius to the Director General of Prisons, Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (Esq) at the Prisons Headquarters in Accra.

    Competing as both a prison officer and the captain of the national weightlifting team, L/Cpl. Owusu showcased exceptional strength and determination, securing his place among the continent’s top lifters. His outstanding performance has significantly boosted his international rankings and cemented his reputation as one of Ghana’s leading weightlifters.

    This achievement follows his promising display at the 2024 All-African Games hosted in Ghana, where he placed fourth in the Senior Men’s Division—a performance that hinted at his rising potential on the African stage.

    Last year, Ghana showcased an outstanding performance at the 2023 Africa Games, surpassing its medal tally from the previous two editions combined. With an impressive haul of 46 medals, Ghana exceeded the 32 medals won in both Rabat 2019 and Brazzaville 2015.

    The majority of Ghana’s medals have been earned in arm wrestling, with the team securing a remarkable 41 medals in this sport alone. Notable athletes like Edward Asamoah, Abeka Blessed, and Grace Mintah have contributed to this success, each clinching two gold medals. 

    Additionally, athletes such as Godwin Sackey, Abeka Blessed, and Mabel Yeboah have also earned gold medals in their respective categories.

    Beyond arm wrestling, Ghana has also seen success in swimming and weightlifting. Abeiku Jackson has claimed silver and bronze medals in the men’s 50m butterfly and 100m butterfly events, respectively. In weightlifting, Winnifred Ntumi has excelled, securing gold, silver, and another silver medal in the women’s 49kg category.