TIG Post

Tag: Ashanti Region

  • 23-year-old dies at Okyerekrom in tricycle crash

    23-year-old dies at Okyerekrom in tricycle crash

    A fatal accident at Okyerekrom in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region has claimed the life of a 23-year-old man, Kingsley Kwaku Atta, after an aboboyaa (tricycle) carrying timber crashed.

    According to reports, the deceased was seated as a pillion passenger on the tricycle, which was loaded with approximately 20 timber logs, at the time of the incident. The vehicle was said to be en route from Bayerebon Number 5 to Antwi Adjei Nkwanta when the crash occurred.

    Providing details, the Assemblyman for the area, Alexander Akwasi Yeboah, indicated that the accident happened when the rider lost control of the overloaded tricycle on a poor section of the road.

    “A group of young men had loaded the tricycle with timber and were heading toward Antwi Adjei Nkwanta when the rider lost control upon reaching a bad portion of the road, leading to the crash,” he told journalists.

    He further stated that the rider and another injured person were taken to the Nyinahin Government Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.

    Yeboah also raised concerns about the rising number of such incidents in the area, linking them to the improper use of tricycles.

    “The misuse of aboboyaa is becoming alarming and poses a serious risk to lives. We continue to record preventable accidents because of overloading and reckless handling,” he warned.

    He went on to caution young people in the district to be more careful and follow safety guidelines.

    “I want to appeal to the youth to use tricycles strictly for their intended purpose—transporting goods—and avoid overloading or engaging in unsafe practices that could lead to more tragic losses,” he advised.

    A collision involving a Benz car and a tricycle loaded with refuse at the downside section of the Achimota Forest Roundabout, near the DSTV bus stop, has resulted in the death of one individual. The unfortunate incident occurred today, Friday, October 31.

    According to eyewitnesses, the tricycle driver reportedly died on the spot due to the severe impact of the crash.

    Meanwhile, the driver of the Benz is in police custody assisting with investigations. In a related development, one person was confirmed dead and three others injured following a tragic accident near the Anyinam Health Line on the Accra-Kumasi Highway on Sunday, October 27.

    The incident occurred when a Toyota Hilux with registration number ER 2956-20 collided with a Howo trailer numbered GM 592-21. The victims are receiving medical attention at the Enyiresi Government Hospital. Ghana has recorded a series of road accidents this year.

    On Saturday, October 25, a fatal crash involving a stationary tipper truck and a Sprinter bus at Atwedie, near Konongo on the Kumasi–Accra Highway, left at least 14 people severely injured. The Sprinter bus, with registration number GR 6626-22, reportedly rammed into the stationary truck, causing the unfortunate incident.

    Less than forty-eight hours later, several individuals reportedly died in a road crash that occurred near the Kasoa tollbooth in the Central Region. En route to Kasoa, the fully loaded minibus somersaulted multiple times after colliding with a Jeep 4×4, registration number GR 7673. Meanwhile, the number of casualties is yet to be made public by authorities.

    Furthermore, three individuals lost their lives in a fatal crash that occurred on Friday night, October 24, on the Tatale–Zabzugu road in the Northern Region. More than ten others were injured in the aftermath of the incident. The victims in the crash were traders returning from the Kukpalgu market.

    They encountered the unfortunate incident when the Kia truck, with registration number GW-5828-17, carrying them collided with an abandoned motorking tricycle on the road. The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Tatale District Hospital, while the injured are receiving treatment at the same facility.

    In a similar development, the Founder and Leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga’s Toyota V8, reportedly crashed into a commercial vehicle with registration number GS 3642-12 at the Ashaiman overhead in Accra. The near-fatal road accident, which occurred on Friday, October 24, left one individual injured.

    According to eyewitnesses, Hassan Ayariga’s driver hit the commercial vehicle, causing the V8 to lose control and veer off the road into a gutter. Ghana has recorded a series of road accidents this year. Some months ago, an accident at Bechem in the Bono Region claimed the lives of two individuals, including a church leader of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church.

    The fatal crash, which occurred on Sunday, August 10, left several others with injuries, including children. According to reports, the victims, who were close to Aburaso, were returning from a camp meeting they attended in Kumasi. Reportedly, the tire of the bus carrying the individuals had a fracture, leading to a burst, which caused the vehicle to somersault.

    On Monday, July 28, a tragic road accident on the Atwedie stretch of the Kumasi–Accra Highway resulted in the deaths of sixteen members of the Saviour Church of Ghana. Days later, an accident at Asamankese in the Eastern Region, on Wednesday, August 6, reportedly claimed the life of an individual. Officials have yet to confirm any additional casualties.

    The unfortunate incident occurred after a tipper truck veered off the road, crashing into shops around the Dukes Filling Station. According to sources, many other individuals sustained injuries. Reports indicate 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, emergency services reportedly arrived at the scene to rescue trapped individuals. 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 assisting. Local officials have reportedly given assurances of aiding the victims of the accident. The deceased were reportedly returning from the church’s annual programme in the Eastern Region.

    Their deaths were confirmed after their bus crashed into an oncoming fuel tanker. All sixteen victims were laid to rest in a single large grave on Thursday, July 31, by the Obogu community and church leadership.

    Ghana has reported a surge in the number of fatalities resulting from 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 recorded 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 these road crashes. As a result of the accidents, 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 help combat this growing menace, the National Road Safety Authority has called for the strict enforcement of traffic regulations and increased public education.

    The NRSA has emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and sustained public awareness campaigns to help curb the rising number of road accidents across the country.

  • 208 fire outbreaks recorded in two months in Ashanti Region – GNFS

    208 fire outbreaks recorded in two months in Ashanti Region – GNFS

    The Ashanti Region has recorded two-hundred and eight (208) fire outbreaks between January and February this year. This information was disclosed by the Ashanti Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service, ACFO1 Peter Tetteh, at the launch of an inter-market quiz on fire safety in Kumasi on Tuesday, March 3. 

    ACFO1 Peter Tetteh said the 208 outbreaks recorded in the first two months of 2026 were slightly lower than the 237 incidents reported during the same period in 2025. ACFO1 Peter Tetteh noted that heightened activities during this time of the year make communities particularly vulnerable to fire outbreaks.

    “Market fires cause a lot of devastation. The aim is to get traders involved in fire prevention so that they can own the market, understand what causes fires, and prevent them,” ACFO1 Tetteh said. In the early hours of Monday, February 23, the Zabzugu market in the Northern Region was destroyed by a fire incident.

    The incident left several traders stranded, as they assess the large quantities of yams and other goods lost in the fire outbreak. Ghana has experienced several market fire incidents in recent years.

    Earlier this year, a large fire swept through sections of the Madina Market in Accra, triggering a swift response from the Ghana National Fire Service as efforts continue to contain the blaze.

    The GNFS, in a Facebook update, said fire appliances from the Madina and Legon stations were dispatched to the market shortly after the incident was reported. Fire officers are working under difficult conditions to control the flames, with heavy smoke spreading across the busy trading area.

    While the exact scale of destruction has not yet been determined, early indications point to damage to a number of stalls and merchandise.

    In response, traders and nearby residents have been moved away from the affected areas, as security personnel restrict access to parts of the market to enable firefighters to carry out their operations.

    Authorities have not yet established the cause of the fire, noting that investigations will begin after the situation is fully brought under control.

    In the same area, an inferno destroyed several makeshift wooden and metal structures used for both commercial and residential purposes at Madina Washing Bay near Redco Flat on Sunday evening, August 3.

    The blaze destroyed utility poles, traders’ wares, personal belongings, and an unspecified number of structures worth several thousand cedis, according to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

    In a Facebook post, the Fire Service noted that while battling the inferno, one of its firefighters sustained a minor leg injury.

    The Ghana National Fire Service noted that it received the distress call at 12:36 hours and responded swiftly, with the first crew from Madina Fire Station arriving within 4 minutes at 12:40 hours to confront the fully developed fire.

    Also, four (4) fire engines from Legon, Abelempke, and GNFS Headquarters joined the operation to contain the blaze. According to the GNFS, thanks to the timely and coordinated efforts, the fire was confined at 13:42 hours and fully brought under control at 13:54 hours.

    Overhaul operations continued until 20:50 hours, with firefighters salvaging multiple adjoining structures and their contents. Investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway, according to the Ghana National Fire Service.

    Last month, a fire outbreak occurred at Madina Ritz Junction. It was earlier reported that a 2-month-old baby died as a result of the fire incident. However, GNFS, in a Facebook post on July 17, said that after engaging with some victims, particularly women, they confirmed that no lives were lost.

    “A verification team was dispatched to the scene this morning, and after engaging affected residents, particularly the women, and a Unit Committee Member of the area, the Service can confirm that no lives were lost.”

    The Fire Service has thus entreated the public and media outlets to “disregard any reports suggesting otherwise, as they are inaccurate and misleading,” adding that it remains firmly committed to public safety, emergency responsiveness, and transparent communication.”

    The fire began after a gas explosion in one of the shops and quickly spread to adjacent containers, consuming everything in its path.

    The incident, which involved multiple wooden structures used for both residential and commercial purposes, was fully contained through the swift and professional response of firefighters from the Madina, Legon, and Abelemkpe Fire Stations.

    An investigation by the Service was launched to ascertain the cause of the fire, which destroyed several properties. It is yet to be reported the cause of the fire.

    In April this year, a raging fire ripped through the Madina Redco Flats area, reducing more than 150 structures to ashes and claiming the life of a young Nigerian woman.

    The inferno, which began around 11:15 p.m., rapidly spread across 140 wooden kiosks and 20 metal containers that served as homes and business outlets.

    Though firefighters from the Madina Fire Station arrived on the scene within two minutes, the blaze had already intensified. One fatality was recorded, a Nigerian woman affectionately known in the area as Beauty.

    Believed to be in her early twenties, she was trapped in her room and could not escape. Her charred remains were retrieved and handed over to the Madina Police for preservation and further investigation.

    Last year, about 50 stalls were burnt to ashes after the Madina Market in Accra caught fire. Deputy Director of Operations at the Ghana National Fire Service, D.O.1. Kofi Forson, who engaged the media, recounted the challenges the firefighters faced in quenching the flame.

    “It was not easy for us and there was a lack of access to where the fire was spreading, and because it happened in the night, the shops were closed and we had to break through and that made it tedious,” he said.

    In the first half of the year, the Ghana National Fire Service has reported a marginal increase in fire outbreaks. A comparison of data from January to June last year and that of this year’s first six months indicates that Ghana recorded 3,595 fire cases.

    According to the Ghana National Fire Service, that is about 19 more cases than the 3,576 cases recorded during the same time in 2024, a sharp increase in cases representing a 0.53% rise.

    The monthly breakdown of fire cases reported this year is as follows: January (964), February (678), March (619), April (483), May (457), and June (394).

    The Greater Accra Region recorded the highest number of fire incidents, with 628 cases, followed by the Ashanti Region with 581 cases and the Central Region with 408. The North East Region reported the lowest number of incidents—just 10.

    Head of Public Relations at the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Desmond Ackah, revealed that due to their improved and swift response to fire cases, they were able to save over GH¢203 million worth of properties.

    Fire outbreaks across the country in the first half of 2025 led to the destruction of properties valued at over GH¢188 million.

    Top causes of fire incidents, according to the Ghana National Fire Service, include electrical faults through illegal connections, poor wiring, and overloading of circuits; improper use of electrical appliances, such as overused extension cords and unattended devices.

    Also, unattended cooking, especially with gas, electric, or coal-based stoves. Careless use of naked flames like candles, mosquito coils, lighters, and matches, gas leakages, and poor handling of LPG cylinders are also responsible for fire incidents in the country.

  • 20-year-old dies after falling in abandoned mining pit

    20-year-old dies after falling in abandoned mining pit

    A 20-year-old student, Evans Allotey, of Okomfo Anokye Senior High School (SHS), has died after falling into an abandoned mining pit on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Manso Akwesiso, Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region. 

    The unfortunate incident reportedly occurred while he was attempting to flee military personnel who had visited the site to crack down on illegal mining activities. In reaction to the unfortunate incident, residents staged a protest to express their dissatisfaction.  

    In 2025, a pit collapse at an illegal mining site at Kasotie in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region claimed the lives of seven illegal miners who were trapped underground. The pit collapse which occurred on Wednesday night, October 1, also left four injured, while several miners trapped. 

    For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results. Among recent measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).

    The Secretariat includes the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the Narcotics Control Commission, and the National Security Secretariat.

    Addressing the security forces, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Amarh Kofi-Buah, directed the team to ruthlessly counter the activities of galamsey operators as they are the enemies of the state.

    “Any recalcitrant entering into these zones is not merely a trespasser. They are an enemy of the state. You are to be firm. You are to be resolute. You are to be ruthless.

    “And please, take it from me, you will take no obstructionist instruction from any big man. Remember, the biggest man in Ghana is the President of the Republic, and he’s the one who has sent you,” Mr Kofi-Buah charged.

    Government deployed soldiers to permanently guard 44 galamsey hotspots, including waterbodies and areas threatened by galamsey activities.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, September 16, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, noted, “All the 44 areas that are threatened by galamsey, there is going to be a permanent military presence”.

    According to statistics from the Lands Minister, 1,400 persons have been arrested from January to August this year in the government’s efforts to crack down on galamsey.

    According to him, the achievement was attained through the government’s renewed efforts. He noted that the government has seized 440 excavators and more than 800 changfans.

    “We have seized 440 excavators and more than 800 changfans. We have mobilised Blue Water Guards in key regions, and they are making a difference,” Mr. Buah stated.

    The government’s recent move is a response to mounting calls for the declaration of a state of emergency on galamsey.The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.

    The government has issued an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by August 1st.

    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will proceed with confiscating unregistered mining equipment after the deadline.

    “The Government, as part of efforts to reform the mining sector in the country, requires that all machinery used in mining activities must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August 2025. Equipment that remains unregistered after this deadline will be confiscated by the State,” the Ministry stated on its website.

    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of the new rule from August 2. “The Ghana Police Service and DVLA have been directed to enforce this directive from 2nd August 2025 onward rigorously. The general public, especially those who use mining machinery, is advised to take note and comply with the directive,” he wrote.

    The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement. Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago, where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.

    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, issued the directive in Accra, warning that effective June 1, any excavator not registered with the DVLA will be confiscated.

    Speaking at a press briefing, Mr. Kotey announced that the Ghana Police Service and the DVLA’s operational team commenced a nationwide enforcement after the deadline, arresting and impounding excavators being used at mining sites or for commercial purposes without proper documentation.

    “This exercise will help identify every excavator that enters the country and trace how it is being used. The goal is to ensure we can monitor and hold people accountable,” Mr. Kotey said.

    The directive fell in line with Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), which mandates the registration of all motor vehicles and trailers, including farm and heavy-duty equipment.

    Despite the law, the DVLA found many unregistered excavators operating in mining areas, some of which have been used in illegal activities.Mr Kotey emphasised that the DVLA, with its 34 offices nationwide, could register all excavators and farm machinery within two weeks and was ready to strictly enforce the directive.

    “Excavators in the hands of illegal miners have worsened the destruction of our environment. This is why we must act,” Mr Kotey said.To further control the situation, the DVLA, in collaboration with key agencies like the Minerals Commission, National Security, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), commenced tagging all newly imported excavators.

    In addition to tagging new imports, the Minerals Commission was tasked with leading a team to tag all excavators already in the country. Legal small-scale mining sites have also been geo-fenced, with their site coordinates integrated into the Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking software for better oversight.

    The move is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining. Three months ago, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced the rollout of a system to monitor excavator imports and usage, involving port tagging and digital tracking in partnership with several state agencies.

    According to the sector minister. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion. In April, a total of 47 individuals were arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities along the Tano River and within the Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri forests in the Western Region.

    This followed a special four-day intelligence-led operation that commenced on April 17, within the Samreboi enclave.

    According to the Ghana Police Service, the suspects include 39 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals. The Police indicated that a significant amount of equipment and materials believed to have been used for the mining operations were retrieved.

    These include seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barreled gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.

    Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.

    The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025. 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 a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.

    The task force extended its operation to Adeade, where three suspects, Prosper Quansah, Chrispin Nartey, and Owusu Gambra, were arrested with an excavator on a lowbed trailer. One SANY excavator, four unregistered Haojin motorbikes, and one lowbed vehicle with registration number GN 2136-24 were seized from the scene.All exhibits were secured in police custody.

    Some 12 accused persons standing trial for engaging in illegal mining activities at Tumetu near Princess Town in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region have been remanded into prison custody.

    While 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.This was due to a coordinated police intelligence-led operation within the Ahanta West Municipality.

    The accused persons are Lord Yankey, Caleb Adu Kwaw, Stephen Agyei, Ebenezer Barnes, Mathew Somagevi, Paa Grant, Bashiru Kaviru, Joseph Borney, Aminu Issah, Kofi Sogah, Albert Normah, and Robert Mensah.Four water pumping machines, one tricycle with registration number M-20-WR 1045, and two motorbikes were retrieved from the sites, according to the police.

    All twelve accused persons admitted to the offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.Also, fifteen individuals are in police custody for engaging in illegal mining activities at Manso Adubia.

    They were arrested following a special intelligence-led operation at Watreso and Preacher Krom.The suspects include Tahiru Ibrahim (24), Shaibu Idrissu, (23), Boateng Emmanuel (27), Jamon Kwaku Samuel (21), Yaro Patrick (29), Kofi Boakye (21), Gubong Mathew (45), Fatawu Zackari Seidu (26), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).The others are Dauda Tahiru (23), Sampson Grace (21), Boolangkpuo Freda (24), Arima Hagar (26), Kwarteng Vasco (30), and Kwame Adutwum (24).

    Two excavator control boards, two automatic pump-action guns, two Musler 12 firearms, 59 BB cartridges, three AA cartridges, one water pumping machine, two power generators, one vulcanizing machine, and one Apsonic motorbike were seized from the site.

  • Illegal miners flee as NAIMOS confiscates guns, others in Ashanti Region

    Illegal miners flee as NAIMOS confiscates guns, others in Ashanti Region

    The crackdown on illegal mining activities in the Ashanti Region has taken heightened momentum, as security forces intensify operations against illegal miners operating across forest reserves and along major river bodies.

    On February 14 and 15, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) stormed multiple galamsey sites in the Ashanti Region, seizing heavy equipment such as guns, excavators and other equipment used for illegal mining activities.

    The exercise was conducted in Edwinase in the Bekwai Municipality and Wromanso in the Amansie Central District along the River Offin. According to reports, several miners fled upon seeing the approaching vehicles of the taskforce.

    Illegal mining continues to pose a major challenge to the country, with several foreign nationals implicated and multiple arrests made. Meanwhile, scientific tests are underway on new chemicals that could help restore polluted water bodies and rivers affected by galamsey.

    Speaking at a stakeholder engagement in Accra on October 3, the President said: “There are new chemicals that have come that allow you to treat water and take out the toxins and the heavy metals. One of them is called dowtine. The people came, and we sent them there. They took samples and tested. We are waiting for them to bring the results back.”

    John Dramani Mahama urged patience in the long-running battle against galamsey, noting that declaring a state of emergency alone will not end the menace.

    He said government advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining and technologies that neutralise or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies. He also pledged to act on calls for a state of emergency if his advisors recommend it.

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

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

    Despite renewed efforts, the canker continues to wreak havoc. The newly established NAIMOS task force narrowly escaped death in a mob assault at Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region on Saturday, November 1, during an operation that resulted in several arrests, including a Burkinabe national.

    Locals were seen in a viral video confronting the NAIMOS team and demanding the release of those arrested. NAIMOS spokesperson Paa Kwesi Schandorf described the attack as “extremely and profoundly disappointing,” saying the officials “survived clearly by the mercy of God. If you look at how they were charged, the rest of the team could have lost their lives.”

    The Member of Parliament for Asutifi North, Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, was, however, accused of inciting the mob against the NAIMOS team.

    NAIMOS has been active across the country, including raids in the Offin Shelterbelt Forest Reserve (Ashanti Region), Apemkro and Anwiafutu, and Ataso, where the team seized two excavators and destroyed water pumps and other illicit mining tools.

    In the Western Region, an intelligence-led operation on October 5, 2025, saw NAIMOS demolish a notorious illegal mining base at Aboso — known as ‘Gunway’ — dismantling makeshift structures used as hideouts and drug dens and confiscating mining equipment and quantities of hard drugs, including seven parcels of Indian hemp.

    In June, NAIMOS warned criminal groups to vacate galamsey areas. Weeks ago, the Commanding Officer of NAIMOS, Dominic Buah, signalled an imminent and aggressive crackdown on illegal miners.

    “I would like to send this warning to illegal miners, their assignees and financiers that they are the first or prime enemies of the state, and they will be dealt with as such. There will be no room for them to escape or to hide. NAIMOS will smoke them out very soon. There’s no resting place for them,” he said at a stakeholder engagement at the Jubilee House on October 3, 2025.

  • 132 fire incidents were recorded across Ashanti Region in January – GNFS

    132 fire incidents were recorded across Ashanti Region in January – GNFS

    A total of 132 fire incidents were recorded in Ashanti Region were recorded between January 1 and 31, 2026, marking a decrease from the 187 cases reported during the same period in 2025, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has disclosed.

    Addressing the media on Monday, February 2, the Ashanti Regional Fire Command PRO, DO III Peter Addai, noted that about 45 cases of the fire outbreaks were prevented.


    He added, “We have been able to reduce fire incidence by about 45 cases, which is really impressive. The damage one fire can cause is serious, so the command’s success in reducing the number of incidents is significant”.


    Ghana recorded over 3,595 fire incidents nationwide in the first half of 2025, with regional breakdowns showing hundreds of cases across the Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Central Regions.


    Barely a week into the New Year, some Kasoa residents had their stalls completely burnt after a fire ravaged stalls in a major outbreak at the Kasoa New Market on Sunday, January 4, 2026.


    According to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), a distress call was received around 4:50 p.m., after which the Kasoa Fire Station swiftly reached the scene, only to find the fire at a very advanced stage.


    The fire was spreading so rapidly that fire tenders had to immediately call for reinforcement from Weija, Anyaa, Dansoman, Industrial Area, Flagstaff House, Madina, and Swedru fire stations.
    After about two hours of firefighting, the tenders managed to extinguish the flames at 6:52 p.m., brought the fire under control at 7:52 p.m., and fully extinguished it by 10:00 p.m.


    Although several metallic shops and wooden stalls were destroyed—along with food items such as maize, beans, shea butter, spices, and other merchandise—the swift response by firefighters prevented the blaze from consuming the entire market.


    Fire control officers explained that, despite the losses incurred, several stalls were salvaged. Among the challenges listed by the GNFS during the operation were poor accessibility within the market, long distances to reliable water sources, and interference from members of the public at various points during the operation.

    This fire marks the second major outbreak at the market in the last two years.


    Fire tenders from Kasoa and Swedru have been left on standby to prevent any possible re-ignition, while investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.


    A fire incident at Abuakwa Manhyia in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality of the Ashanti Region claimed the lives of a three-month-old baby and six others.


    The fire outbreak, which occurred at about 12:30 a.m. on Monday, December 22, swept through an apartment. This information was disclosed by the Assembly Member for Abuakwa Manhyia, Evans Opoku. Meanwhile, the cause of the incident is yet to be established. Ghana has recorded several fire incidents from January to November this year.


    Recently, a fire outbreak at Tsito–Awudome Gborkorpe in the Volta Region destroyed a two-bedroom self-contained apartment. No casualties were reported from the incident, which occurred on Monday, December 8.


    Several students at Kedjebi-Asato Senior High School (SHS) in the Oti Region were left unconscious after a fire gutted one of the boys’ dormitories on Tuesday morning, December 2.


    The students passed out from exhaustion as a result of smoke inhalation during the fire. Unfortunately, all their belongings were destroyed. Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully brought the blaze under control.


    Last month, a four-bedroom apartment at Aboabo Number 2 in the Asokore Mampong Municipality of the Ashanti Region was razed by fire on Wednesday, November 27.


    A young man in the community who attempted to help extinguish the fire was electrocuted in the process. Speaking to the media, the Assembly Member for the area, Haruna Abdul Rashid, disclosed that the victim received treatment at the hospital.

  • Kumasi Mayor orders traders to vacate Asokwa–Ahodwo road by January 4

    Kumasi Mayor orders traders to vacate Asokwa–Ahodwo road by January 4

    Traders operating along the Asokwa Interchange–Ahodwo Roundabout stretch in the Ashanti Region have been ordered by Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi to vacate the premises by Saturday, January 4, 2026.

    During a site visit, the Kumasi Mayor urged all affected traders to comply with the instructions or face strict sanctions.


    “The contractor has started work, and we anticipate accelerated progress because we have given a limited timeline for completion. We do not expect any impediments, which is why we are asking them to move,” the Mayor stated.


    The directive has become necessary to pave the way for the dualisation of the Ahodwo–Asokwa Interchange section of the Southern Bypass, a crucial road linking Kumasi to key parts of the Region.

    The project is expected to ease traffic congestion, boost productivity, and enhance economic activities across the Ashanti Region. Last week, Parliament approved the government’s partnership with a private company to build, operate, and maintain the Accra–Kumasi Expressway.

    The approval formalises the concession agreement collaboration between the Ministry of Roads and Highways and Accra–Kumasi Expressway Limited, which aims at maintaining the expressway.


    The approval will pave the way for improvements to the existing road, which is plagued by potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate lighting, creating significant safety risks for drivers and commuters.


    The expressway project is Government of Ghana (GoG)-funded through the Ghana Infrastructure Fund (GIF). Meanwhile, Roads Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza has revealed that the budget allocated for construction work on the Accra–Kumasi bypass has increased by 100% due to galamsey pits and swampy terrain discovered in the area.


    The revelation comes as the Roads Minister was debunking reports that President John Dramani Mahama had asked contractors to stop work on the bypass. Speaking to Parliament on the matter on Tuesday, November 25, Mr. Agbodza stated, “Mr Speaker, let me put it on record.

    President Mahama’s government never asked any contractor working on the bypasses on the Accra–Kumasi road to stop work. Indeed, I called all the contractors and encouraged them to continue working.”


    He added, “However, what they told me was that at the time they were asked to go to site, they were not shown details of the alignment, and this was said in the presence of the Finance Minister. They said they flew a drone and showed them the drone image of the alignment. When they got to the site and started working, they saw galamsey pits and swamp areas. So as we speak, Mr Speaker, almost all the contract prices have increased by more than a hundred percent.”


    On July 30, Parliament unanimously endorsed the government’s proposal to divert all royalties from oil revenues and mineral royalties to support the implementation of the Big Push Programme. This followed a government request for Parliament’s approval to commit funds to assist in the construction of certain road projects.


    Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Mr. Isaac Adongo, while presenting the report by the Budget and Finance joint committee to the plenary, said, “The Committee has carefully considered the Referral, and it is of the opinion that the request is in the right direction.”


    He added that Parliament had already approved the policy and allocation to the “Big Push” Programme in the 2025 Budget Statement. Granting the request would enable the government to enter into multi-year contracts to execute the road infrastructure projects under the programme.


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


    The initiative, aimed at improving road infrastructure across the country, is estimated at GHC13.8 billion and is expected to be completed by 2028 using the country’s own financial resources.


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


    The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, on Wednesday, July 30, revealed that his ministry has undertaken studies and prepared comprehensive engineering interventions and cost estimates for road projects under the Big Push Programme.


    The Ministry of Finance has since issued commitment authorizations for twenty-nine road infrastructure projects under the programme, including the upgrading of Akosombo–Gyakiti–Kudikope Road, dualisation of Winneba–Mankessim Road, rehabilitation of Mankessim–Ajumako–Breman Asikuma–Agona Swedru Road, construction of Enchi–Elubo Road, and rehabilitation of Atimpoku–Asikuma Junction Road.


    The government has also selected a number of abandoned road projects for which no dedicated funding was allocated by the previous administration.

    These include rehabilitation and upgrading of Kasoa–Winneba Road, construction of Suame Interchange and local roads, reconstruction of Navrongo–Chuchuliga–Sandema Road, and upgrading of Tumu–Chuchuliga–Navrongo, including construction of a 36m span reinforced concrete bridge over the Kanyibie River and a 24m span reinforced concrete bridge over the Bechelihu River.


    By the end of July, the government plans to settle GHC4 billion of the large debt owed to road contractors. Currently, the government owes road contractors GHC21 billion, according to the Roads Minister.


    President John Mahama emphasized his government’s commitment to infrastructure development under his administration’s 24-hour economy agenda. Prioritizing road construction and the swift resumption of stalled projects is seen as key to promoting economic growth and productivity by ensuring adequate regional connectivity.


    The announcement has been met with excitement and optimism by many stakeholders in the construction sector. The Ghana Institute of Engineers and the Association of Road Contractors have largely welcomed the president’s announcement but have called for transparency.

    They urged the government to publish clear timelines and payment schedules to enable contractors to plan and mobilize resources effectively.


    In March, Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Alhassan Suhuyini, acknowledged the significant financial burden facing the government to clear outstanding debts owed to contractors and suppliers.

    His remarks followed the presentation of the 2025 budget by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who disclosed that the government’s total commitments to contractors stand at GH¢67.5 billion.


    Mr. Suhuyini emphasized the importance of prioritizing road maintenance, a sector that has suffered due to poor upkeep. “The minister has stressed that a significant portion of these funds will be directed toward road maintenance. This is a smart move because our poor maintenance culture has resulted in roads deteriorating within 8 to 10 years instead of lasting longer.”


    He added, “In addition to paying off some existing road maintenance debts, the government is looking at a broader infrastructure push. With GH¢10 to GH¢13 billion allocated under the ‘Big Push’ initiative, several new road projects will commence, while some outstanding debts will also be retired.”


    The directive is part of plans to dualise the Ahodwo–Asokwa Interchange section of the Southern Bypass, a crucial road linking Kumasi to key parts of the Ashanti Region.

    The narrow stretch has long caused traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, and government intervention seeks to improve traffic flow.


    The Mayor of Kumasi, Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, has vowed to unleash strict measures on traders who persist in selling along pavements in Adum. Addressing a press conference on Monday, April 14, the Mayor warned that he would deploy a “democratic military style” to deal with those who refuse to vacate the area with their wares.


    He has given the ‘defiant’ traders a two-week ultimatum to adhere to the directives and cooperate with the decongestion exercise led by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA).


    “I have my own democratic military style, which I will be implementing. When we say leave this space and you don’t leave this space, and I get there, and you’re not lucky and my boys are with me, there and then, we will beat you,” the Mayor declared.


    According to the mayor, previous attempts to address the issue—such as seizing goods and arresting offenders—have proven ineffective, as traders continue to return to unauthorized areas, worsening congestion in the city’s central business district.


    Highlighting the impact on Kumasi’s identity, the Mayor stressed that the lawlessness displayed by traders blocking pavements is tarnishing the city’s reputation as the “Garden City of West Africa.”


    “In the middle of Adum, if I’m alone, you will be lucky, but if I’m with my ten boys, in their pick-up with their whips, trust me, we will beat you,” he stated. “If you don’t want to experience that kind of situation, do what is right and lawful.”


    Describing the move as a civic obligation and an act of respect toward the Asante Kingdom, Mr. Boadi added, “This is Otumfuo’s city. We must preserve its beauty and order.”


    On Wednesday, April 16, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA)implemented the exercise with force, and traders were urged to relocate to designated areas to avoid potential clashes.


    Reacting to the mayor’s directive, the traders expressed their dissatisfaction with the planned decongestion exercise, stating that their presence along the pavements is not by choice but rather a result of their current circumstances.


    They explained that a recent fire outbreak in the area had displaced many of them, forcing them to operate in unapproved spaces as a means of survival. The traders are therefore appealing to the Mayor for more time to relocate, preferably to the yet-to-be-completed Central Market.


    “We’re on the streets because we have no place to go. Give us some time — we are the ones who voted for you. Provide us with a proper space; we are not animals to be whipped,” they said.


    The blaze, which broke out in the early hours of Friday, March 21, wreaked havoc on numerous shops and assets, leaving many traders to assess the extent of their damages.

    If you want, I can also condense this entire article into a clean, well-structured news story that maintains all your quotes and details but is much easier to read. This would make it more suitable for publication.

  • Electronic health platform crash cripples healthcare delivery in Ashanti Region

    Electronic health platform crash cripples healthcare delivery in Ashanti Region

    Doctors and nurses of health facilities across the Ashanti Region have reverted to taking medical records in folders and exercise books following the breakdown of their electronic health platform, which has been out of service for over a week.

    The lives of patients are currently at risk due to delayed medical care delivery.

    At the Ejisu Government Hospital, patients were seen wielding folders in queue to seek medical attention.

    Their healthcare officers buried their heads in the folders to write their medical data.

    Patients have been left distraught, waiting in the long queues.

    “I came here around 7 am and after waiting in long queues I have now been served. If I knew this was the situation, I would have gone to a private facility,” a patient said.

    Over the course of the week, major public health facilities have witnessed long winding queues of patients seeking critical care.

    The situation has been similar at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Suntreso Government Hospital.

    Health officers reportedly resorted to writing in exercise books, presenting a physical discomfort to the frontline workers and a financial burden on management.

    In the same year, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) forecasted that Ghana will achieve universal health coverage before 2030.

    Chief Executive of the NHIA, Dr. Da-Costa Aboagye, emphasized the implementation of innovative measures, including a forthcoming preventive healthcare initiative integrated into the NHIS claim package.

    This initiative aims to provide medical check-ups on birthdays for all enrolled Ghanaians, with the goal of alleviating financial burdens on both individuals and the nation.

    “To achieve universal health coverage, you see there are things you need to do. So far, over our 20-year history, the NHIS 20 years history, it has been curative. So curative means that you get sick before you go to the hospital. But we believe that with the rise of the noncommunicable diseases, hypertension for example, hypertension contributes a lot of our claims, diabetes.”

    “So we want to reduce the cost burden of the curative services. By doing that, you introduce what we call a preventive approach, so annual health check for every Ghanaian. So you detect the diseases early. Not only that, you also make sure by doing that, you increase life expectancy and, you reduce the cost burden on the patient in the whole country.”

    “The modalities are being worked out, and I’m sure very soon, preventive health care will become part of our claim benefit package in such a way that on your month of birth, you’ll get a notification from the NHIA that goes to the nearest health facility and check your basic vitals. The vitals, obviously, your sugar levels, your, BP, your body weight, and all those things will be included…Reforms are taking place, and I’m hoping that it will all come to the benefit of all Ghanaians,” he stated.

    Dr. Da-Costa Aboagye, who voiced concern about co-payments at various health facilities, asserted that the issue must be tackled directly.

    “Co-payments are a big issue, and we need to address it head-on. We need to address it by our systems, and we also need to address it from the provider’s point of view. Now if you look at our systems, okay, the government e-pharmacy platform offers us the best solution out of this co-payment.

    “Because now when you go to the hospital facilities, they tell you that some of the medicines are not there. But it’s very difficult for our clients to understand the packages we provide in terms of the medicines because they are not experts.”

    “So by this, what we are doing is we put the responsibility on the pharmacies to make sure that they upload their prescriptions on the e-pharmacy platforms because of the property addressing system. So it can be delivered to their local pharmacies or the patients can go to the various, local pharmacies and collect it.

    “So once we also review the tariffs and give the pharma companies and the facilities the accurate tariffs, we will seek parliamentary approval for what we call the automatic price adjustment so that we have what we call the national tariff review committee that will look at the economic conditions and review the tariffs as we go along.”

    “In this case, we from the NHIS will be fulfilling our part, and we will now put the burden on the facilities to fulfil their part. Then we use the systems to check in terms of the e-pharmacy platform to make sure that patients are not being charged for the services that are being paid for by the NHIS,” he stated.

    Some facilities confirm losing medical data records of patients since 2023.

    Many of them are now desperately seeking alternatives to ease the burden.

    Management of the Manhyia Government Hospital, after enduring a week of the discomforting situation, has found an alternative digital platform.  

    For many of these facilities, they urgently want a return to the electronic system.

    In 2024, the Ministry of Health launched the National Health Database Platform and HEFRA’s Digitized Health Facility Assessment system, supported by the USAID Health Strengthening Accelerator Project.

    The platform is set to integrate health data from all agencies under the ministry, centralizing information for better decision-making and improved healthcare services.

    Chief Director of the Ministry, Alhaji Hafiz Adam, highlighted that the platform, developed by Results for Development (R4D), enables the Ministry to visualize health priorities and make data-driven decisions through advanced analytics.

    “The development of the National Health Database and HEFRA’s Digitized Health Facility Assessment Platform is crucial for achieving Universal Health Coverage,” Alhaji Hafiz Adam stated.

    Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, in a speech delivered on his behalf, commended the Accelerator project for its contributions to various critical areas such as health sector planning, service expansion, primary healthcare, digitalization, and regulatory reforms.

    He emphasized the project’s role in shaping the Health Sector Medium Term Development Plan (2022-2025), a key roadmap for delivering essential health services in Ghana.

    The Minister thanked USAID, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and other partners for their support, urging continued collaboration to ensure that every Ghanaian has access to quality healthcare

  • Several unlicensed health facilities in Ashanti Region shut down by HeFRA

    Several unlicensed health facilities in Ashanti Region shut down by HeFRA

    Several unlicensed health facilities in the Ashanti Region have been shut down following a recent operation by the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) on Monday, October 13.

    These health facilities are reported to have been operating without a valid license for the past six years. The crackdown is part of HeFRA’s nationwide efforts to regulate health facilities and ensure compliance.

    ANKHOR Diagnostics and RASHBILL Eyecare, both located within the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital premises, are among the affected health facilities.

    Weeks ago, HeFRA shut down 17 health facilities across the country for operating under unsafe conditions and with expired licenses. Speaking to the media, HeFRA’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Winfred Baah, noted that his outfit will ensure that all health facilities operate in full compliance with the law and meet safety and quality standards.
    “No facility, whether private, corporate, or public, is above the law. We cannot allow anyone to offer clinical services to staff or the public without proper regulation and supervision,” he stressed.


    Recently, the Bono East Regional Police Command arrested a man for operating an unlicensed clinic in his residence at Yeji Zongo in the Bono East Region. According to a release shared on the Facebook page of the Ghana Police Service and signed by ASP Appiah Danquah, the suspect, identified as Hanson Osei, was arrested on 28th September 2025 after police, acting on intelligence, proceeded to his residence, where he had converted a chamber-and-hall room into a clinic.


    The police revealed that during interrogation, “the suspect admitted that he had been operating the clinic for the past eleven (11) years without authorization from any recognized medical school or licensing authority.”

    A search of the premises uncovered several used clinical items, including needles, malaria injection bottles, infusion rubber sachets, and other medical materials. The police therefore, put Mr. Hanson Osei before the Tuobodom District Court on 30th September 2025. He has since been remanded to reappear on 6th October 2025.


    Earlier in September, a man posing as a medical doctor at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) was reported to the police after arousing suspicions among hospital personnel. The middle-aged individual, known as Williams Cyril Kohen, underwent questioning by hospital staff during their regular rounds, leading to the verification of their concerns. Following this development, the suspect was handed over to the hospital’s police post, which subsequently transferred the case to the Central Police Command for further investigation.


    The hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Kwame Frimpong, conveyed that the institution had implemented security measures aimed at preventing such occurrences in the future.


    “At KATH, it is very difficult for people to come and claim that they are doctors and start working there because that is not how the thing works. We have a team-based system where all the team members are known and also remember that it is a training institution, so most of the time the people who join us are our former students and so it is a very close-knit community and the team members are known to each other.

    “So you cannot just be part of the team out of the blue. And because patients are allocated to teams, you cannot go to any patient when you are not part of the team. Again, we have this electronic medical records system where every member of the medical staff has a password specific to them, and you have to use this system to attend to patients, to review the cases, and to give prescriptions for medicine to be dispensed. Once you don’t have the password because you are not a staff or member of the medical teams you cannot even attend to the patient,” he stated.


    In 2019, the Medical and Dental Council arrested a suspected quack doctor at Anyinam in the Eastern Region. The suspect, Kankam Nkrumah, was caught red-handed at the consulting room of Yesukrom Medical Center practicing medicine without a license.

    Information gathered by Starr News indicated that the Investigative Unit of the Medical and Dental Council, led by the Administrative Manager, Bright Atsu Fuglo, and Desmond Asamoah, on January 21, 2019, stormed the community to undertake its routine headcount of licensed practitioners, medical doctors, physician assistants, and certified registered anesthetists at Anyinam.


    Nonetheless, during the exercise, they noticed the suspect, Nkrumah Kankam, sitting in the consulting room, allegedly practicing medicine without a license. He was questioned and subsequently arrested and handed over to the Anyinam Police.

    The Public Relations Officer of the Eastern Regional Police Command, DSP Ebenezer Tetteh, confirmed the arrest to Starr News when contacted. The police retrieved 15 patient folders and one stethoscope as exhibits while investigations continued.


    Also, in 2023, six people in the Kumasi metropolis were arrested for dealing in fake herbal products. Their arrest was carried out as a result of a collaboration between the Ashanti Regional Office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the police.

    The swoop, which targeted dealers in unregistered herbal products, formed part of routine market surveillance conducted by the authority to clamp down on perpetrators.

    The culprits, who had been granted bail pending further investigations, included two community information center operators and four herbal product dealers.


    Mr. John Laryea Odai-Tettey, the Regional Head of the FDA, speaking to the media after the exercise, said the Public Health Act, 2012, mandated the FDA to ensure food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemical substances, blood, blood products, and tobacco were wholesome for public consumption.

    He said the authority had the responsibility to ensure the safety and quality standards of such products as prescribed by the Act. “It is our responsibility to ensure that products under our regulation and being sold for public consumption and use are registered, and that is why we embark on market surveillance to check the safety of the products,” he noted.

    He said beyond the registration of regulated products, his outfit had the duty to monitor the market to identify persons producing sub-standard versions of registered products.
    “Unfortunately, a lot of people do not go to accredited health facilities to seek healthcare, but rather patronize some of these products without verifying their safety,” he pointed out. Mr. Odai-Tettey said the activities of the perpetrators were inimical to public safety and called on the public to support the FDA to flush out such miscreants for the good of the general population.


    He said the doors of the FDA were open to manufacturers of herbal and other regulated products to submit their products for scrutiny to ensure they were safe for public consumption.

    Failure by manufacturers to submit their products for verification, he said, amounted to a violation of the Act, and he cautioned that the FDA would go after such recalcitrant manufacturers in the interest of public health.

    He advised the public to patronize products from registered and recognized dealers, such as pharmacies and licensed over-the-counter chemical sellers, for their own safety. Wholesalers and retailers of herbal products must also ensure they purchase from licensed manufacturers in order not to fall victim to FDA operations, he stated.

  • Mpox cases in Ashanti Region climb to 24

    Mpox cases in Ashanti Region climb to 24

    Twelve districts (12)across the Ashanti Region have recorded twenty-four (24) cases of Mpox, with Kumasi reporting the highest number of infections.

    This information was revealed by the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, Dr Fred Adomako-Boateng, while speaking to the media on Monday, 18 August.

    According to him, the Kumasi Metropolitan area accounts for six cases, marking twenty-five percent 25% of the regional figure.

    He added, “The case fatality rate for most of the average of Mpox is normally around 11%. But if you look at the current outbreak that we are dealing with in the country and the period we are talking about, we are looking at 1/409, which will give a percentage of 0.24. You can’t say 0.24 person dying, but it means that it’s really not fatal as compared to the other cases that we know.”

    “For example, in the Ashanti Region, we initially for a long time didn’t even record a case. Currently, the total number of cases that we have recorded in the region is 24, which is almost about 5% of the total cases that we are talking about. You look at the districts that have been affected, we are talking about 12 districts, which is about 27% of the 43 districts in the region. Currently, the leading district, as it’s implied, is Kumasi, having about six cases, which is about 25% of the cases that we have.”

    The total number of confirmed Mpox cases in the country has surged to four hundred and nine (409) after thirty-seven (37) new cases.
    This update reflects the situation as of August 14, with two patients currently on admission.

    According to previous reports, twenty-six (26) new cases of infection were confirmed on August 11, increasing the total to 372, compared to 346 cases reported on August 7. However, the national death toll remains at one.

    Health officials explained that the Mpox disease primarily spreads through direct contact with an infected individual. Common signs include fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. The Ghana Health Service is urging the public to avoid close interactions with symptomatic persons, maintain regular handwashing with soap and water, refrain from frequently touching the face, and use masks when caring for patients.

    The Service added that it is closely monitoring the outbreak, conducting contact tracing, and strengthening public education with the support of regional health directorates.

    Earlier this month, the Ministry of Health received a significant boost in its fight against the ongoing Mpox outbreak following the donation of essential medical supplies and public health materials from the World Health Organization (WHO).

    During a brief ceremony held at the Ministry, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s public health response and acknowledged the country’s commendable leadership in managing the outbreak.

    The donation, valued at USD 36,700, includes personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline health workers, 780 GeneXpert cartridges to improve diagnostic capacity, and 9,000 risk communication posters along with 40 pull-up banners to support community sensitization efforts.

    The PPE will help enhance infection prevention and control, while the GeneXpert cartridges are expected to facilitate rapid and accurate testing, particularly at decentralized levels. The risk communication materials are aimed at promoting public awareness and behavioural change.

    The Minister for Health, Honourable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who received the items on behalf of the government, thanked the WHO for its continued support. He indicated that Ghana is keen to adopt vaccines as part of its response strategy and called on the WHO to expedite assistance in that regard.

    He also encouraged the public to maintain good hygiene practices and to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, or skin rashes.

    He noted that the Ministry remains committed to strengthening public health systems and working closely with partners to contain the outbreak and protect the health of all Ghanaians.

    Following the detection of twenty (20) new infections as of Wednesday, July 30, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) on Monday, July 27, reported the unfortunate demise of one of the individuals who had contracted the disease.

    Since Ghana recorded its first Mpox case in June 2022, with five cases, this is the first time any of the infected persons has succumbed to the disease.

    In its regular updates, the Ghana Health Service noted that as of July 22, twenty-three (23) new cases were recorded, pushing the total confirmed cases to 257 at the time. Ghana’s confirmed Mpox cases rose to 234 following the detection of sixteen (16) new cases as of July 18. The number of cases stood at 218 after twenty-one (21) new infections were detected as of July 14.

    The Ghana Health Service reported 197 confirmed cases following the detection of eleven (11) new infections as of July 11. The Service, while revealing this information, described the trend as a gradual yet manageable increase and called for sustained public vigilance.

    The country has seen a slight uptick in infections. Health officials, however, maintain that the overall situation remains under control. Although many cases are mild, early medical care is crucial to avoid complications.

    In light of the growing Mpox cases, the GHS is boosting nationwide information campaigns to ensure citizens remain aware and cautious. Preventive actions such as avoiding direct contact with sick individuals, practicing proper hygiene, and promptly seeking care when symptoms show are being emphasized.

    Officials stress the importance of swift case detection and notification, with field teams and community health workers diligently monitoring developments. The public is being encouraged to stay watchful, adhere to health precautions, and contribute to collective efforts to stop the virus from spreading.

    The government is engaging international organizations for assistance in procuring vaccines to help curb the rising number of cases being reported.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) Ghana has provided laboratory PCR reagents to enhance the country’s diagnostic capacity. The donation was officially handed over to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory.

    Receiving the supplies on behalf of the GHS, Acting Deputy Director General Dr. Caroline Reindorf Amissah expressed gratitude for WHO’s ongoing logistical and technical support.

    “We promise from our end to do our bit, collaborate, go out there, and look for the cases to make sure that this is really brought under control,” she stated.

    WHO Country Representative Dr. Fiona Braka emphasized that the organization hopes the reagents will enable rapid diagnosis and prompt public health responses.

    The supplies are capable of testing 3,400 suspected Mpox samples, and additional kits provided will allow clade determination for 625 confirmed positive cases.

    Global Data
    The monkeypox virus was first discovered in Denmark in 1958 in monkeys kept for research, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). A nine-month-old boy from the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970 was the first person to have contracted the virus.

    According to the World Health Organization, following the eradication of smallpox in 1980 and the end of smallpox vaccination worldwide, Mpox steadily emerged in central, east, and west Africa.

    “Since then, mpox has been reported sporadically in central and east Africa (clade I) and west Africa (clade II). In 2003, an outbreak in the United States of America was linked to imported wild animals (clade II).

    Since 2005, thousands of cases have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo every year. In 2017, mpox re-emerged in Nigeria and continues to spread between people across the country and in travellers to other destinations,” the WHO reports.

    In May 2022, an outbreak of Mpox appeared suddenly and rapidly spread across Europe, the Americas, and then all six WHO regions. Since 2022, there has also been an upsurge in Mpox cases and deaths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    In some areas of the country, a new offshoot of clade I, called clade Ib, has been spreading person-to-person. As of mid-2024, the clade has also been reported in other countries.

    Over 120 countries have reported Mpox between January 2022 and August 2024, with over 100,000 laboratory-confirmed cases and more than 220 deaths among confirmed cases.

    Following the meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of Mpox in 2024, held on June 5, 2025, the World Health Organization stated that “Over the past 12 months, the majority of mpox cases have continued to be reported from the African continent, largely driven by outbreaks of MPXV clade Ib in East African countries, including the DRC, where clade Ia is co-circulating. Sierra Leone, however, is experiencing a rapidly evolving outbreak, which based on available genomic sequencing results, appears to be driven by MPXV clade IIb.”

    “Outside of the African region, there continues to be a steady report of monthly cases (between about 500 – 1000 monthly), from all regions, mostly reflecting ongoing circulation of MPXV clade IIb among men who have sex with men (MSM),” the WHO added.

    WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) twice. The first was in May 2022, and the second time was in August 2024.

    The World Health Organization continues to work with member states and partners to prevent and respond to outbreaks of Mpox. This includes coordinating research on vaccines and treatments, strengthening country health systems, and working to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other tools.

  • A/R: Authorities arrest five for illegal water connections

    A/R: Authorities arrest five for illegal water connections

    Ghana Water Limited (GWL) in the Ashanti South Region, in collaboration with the Kumasi Central Police Service, has arrested five individuals for their alleged involvement in illegal water connections.

    The arrests took place on Wednesday across multiple areas in Kumasi, including Danyame, Dakodwom, Kwadaso Estate, and Santasi Apire.


    According to officials, the suspects were picked up after failing to settle surcharges totaling Gh₵31,803.97 issued over their illegal connections.

    Out of the five, three have since made payments amounting to Gh₵11,515.00, while the remaining two are still in police custody and face further action if they do not comply with payment conditions.

    GWL has raised alarm over the growing trend of illegal water tapping in the Ashanti Region, identifying it as a major contributor to Non-Revenue Water (NRW)—water that is produced but not accounted for due to theft, leaks, or other unauthorized use.

    Acting Regional Chief Manager, Madam Innocentia Kuupiel, praised the support of law enforcement in carrying out the arrests and emphasized the need for continued partnership to deter such acts.

    “Management’s dedication to fostering relationships with the police and the media will help to eradicate this menace,” she said.

    She further encouraged people to join the water company to eradicate illegal water connections as they vow to provide good service.

    “Ghana Water Limited is committed to meeting the demands of its customers and entreats that all and sundry should join the fight against Illegal Water Connections, as such acts deny the company the resources to enhance operations,” she added.

    The utility company reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with law enforcement to root out illegal water connections and secure water supply systems across the Ashanti Region.

  • 3 nabbed for alleged involvement in MoMo robbery in Ashanti Region

    3 nabbed for alleged involvement in MoMo robbery in Ashanti Region

    The Ashanti Regional Police Command has arrested three suspects in connection with the robbery and murder of two mobile money vendors in separate incidents within the region.

    The first attack occurred on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Krofrom, where a female vendor, Patricia Nimako, was fatally attacked in broad daylight, and an undisclosed amount of money was stolen. The second incident took place a month later, on Monday, March 10, 2025, when Gideon Owusu Sarpong, also known as “Junior,” was targeted at his home in Kwadaso and killed by the assailants.

    Following intensive investigations, the police apprehended Charles Kwame Danso, 23, alias “Kwame Charles” or “Miami,” Philip Foujour, 29, and Samuel Addae Mensah, 42, on March 21, 2025, at Pankrono and Atimatim. They are currently in custody and will be arraigned in court soon.

    Authorities are still searching for a fourth suspect, Martin Amoah, also known as Augustine Amoah or “Baba Macho,” who is believed to be hiding in Kumasi, Dunkwa-on-Offin, or Diaso in the Central Region.

    The police have called on the public to assist in tracking him down, urging anyone with relevant information to reach out via the toll-free numbers 191 or 112, or dial 18555 on MTN and Telecel networks.

    The Ashanti Regional Police Command reassured residents of its commitment to bringing all perpetrators to justice while urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement.

  • Ashanti Regional Minister arrives at Adum Market where inferno ravages properties

    Ashanti Regional Minister arrives at Adum Market where inferno ravages properties

    Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister, has arrived at Kumasi’s Central Business District, where the Adum Market is being destroyed by fire.

    The fire started early Friday morning, March 21, and quickly spread to nearby shops, causing heavy losses for business owners. It has been hours since the Ghana National Fire Service officers began combating the inferno. Reports indicate that six fire trucks were sent to the scene immediately.

    The minister is taking a briefing from the national security operatives present.

    One of the biggest challenges for the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) was accessing the burning area. The market’s congestion and narrow pathways made it hard for fire trucks to get close. Firefighters had to maneuver through tight spaces while trying to put out the flames.

    Many of the shops stored highly flammable materials, making it difficult for firefighters to bring the blaze under control.

    The affected area of the market is known for selling second-hand clothes and housing seamstresses and watch repairers.

    This comes at a time when the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has deployed a specialized task force across the country in an effort to combat the growing frequency of fires in the markets.

    This measure aims to enhance safety and prevent further destruction caused by market fires.

    Chief Fire Officer Julius A. Kuunuor emphasized the importance of vigilance, explaining that fire personnel and vehicles will be stationed at various market locations daily, providing fire coverage from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

    The GNFS also established a dedicated patrol team that will conduct regular rounds in major markets, ensuring continuous monitoring and a quick response to potential fire hazards. In addition to these measures, fire units have been set up in key markets to facilitate safety education, conduct routine inspections, and enforce safety regulations.

  • Electricity supply in Ashanti Region is better than before – Jinapor

    Electricity supply in Ashanti Region is better than before – Jinapor

    Energy and Green Transition Minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, has revealed that the Ashanti Region is on track to become a major electricity production hub, with ongoing energy projects expected to generate approximately 700 megawatts upon completion.

    During his visit to the region to assess ongoing power challenges, he toured key energy installations, including the Ameri Power Plant, Cenit, and ASKSA Energy Plants, all situated within the Awomaso Bulk Power Supply enclave.

    Speaking to the media, Jinapor reassured residents that strategic interventions are being implemented to improve electricity stability in the region.

    “The supply situation has been stable, and we are able to export some excess amount of power. But there is still more work to be done. Beyond generating the power, you have to evacuate it, you have to transmit it, and you have to distribute it. And so we are working around the clock to ensure that we address this challenge and ultimately ensure that we have a very reliable supply and delivery of power.”

    He also lauded the efforts of the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) for the successful installation of a new transformer, highlighting its vital role in enhancing electricity supply.

    “Let me commend GRIDCo for completing this transformer. It is going to play a very significant role as far as power delivery is concerned. What we witnessed over the past two days has to do with the fact that when you are switching from one transformer to the other, you will have some few challenges.

    “And so let me assure the people of Kumasi that that problem has been resolved, and we look forward to a very improved delivery of power.

    Amid growing concerns over recurring power outages in Kumasi and nearby areas, his statement addresses the region’s electricity reliability issues.

    Efforts by the government to boost power generation and upgrade transmission infrastructure are considered vital steps toward securing a stable energy supply for the region.

  • 1,000 women lost their lives during childbirth in Ashanti Region from 2020 and 2024 – GHS

    1,000 women lost their lives during childbirth in Ashanti Region from 2020 and 2024 – GHS

    The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported that maternal deaths in the Ashanti Region reached 1,000 between 2020 and 2024, highlighting persistent challenges in reducing childbirth-related fatalities despite continuous healthcare interventions.

    Addressing the issue at the 2024 Regional Health Forum, Regional Health Director Dr. Frank Adomanko Boateng stressed the urgent need for stronger measures to curb maternal mortality.

    He pointed out that authorities are working against time to meet both national and global health targets aimed at reducing maternal deaths.

    Dr. Boateng also noted that the region remains behind in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of reducing maternal mortality to 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.

    With just six years left, he emphasized the importance of intensifying efforts to close the gap and enhance maternal health outcomes.

    “Time is not on our side as we wish to achieve the target of 70 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030. The clock is ticking and we must double our efforts.”

  • Task Force in Ashanti Region reclaims 10 acres land from galamseyers

    Task Force in Ashanti Region reclaims 10 acres land from galamseyers

    The Ashanti Regional Security Task Force has taken back about 10 acres of forest land that illegal miners had taken over in the Offinso area.

    The miners, who were armed, were causing serious harm to the environment.

    “We initially gave them an ultimatum to leave the site peacefully or be removed. Some complied, but others refused. Finally, with the support of the joint security team, we have successfully reclaimed over 10 acres of this rich forest reserve,” Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene told the Daily Graphic.

    Dr. Amoakohene, who assumed office just about four weeks ago, emphasized his commitment to “rebuilding Ashanti Region.”

    Galamsey Crackdown

    Dr. Amoakohene, along with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and a security team, led the operation.

    “We went there to assess the level of destruction and determine how best to restore the land,” Dr. Amoakohene said, adding that under his leadership, illegal mining in the region would be drastically reduced if not eliminated.

    ‘Tree for Life’ Initiative

    To help fix the damage, the government is starting a project called Tree for Life in Offinso.

    Dr. Amoakohene explained that the project will focus on planting trees and encouraging responsible mining.

    Dr. Amoakohene said the initiative, which will be piloted in the Ashanti Region, aims to promote afforestation and responsible mining.

    “As a government, we want to support miners to operate the right way—by obtaining the necessary licenses, documentation, and supervision—so they can reclaim the land as they mine,” he stated, adding that responsible mining could create jobs for the youth.

    Kejetia Market Redevelopment

    The minister also said he is working to fix issues at the new Kejetia Market and complete the second phase of the Kejetia/Central Market project.

    “We have made a bold decision on the management of Kejetia. The management has been dysfunctional for almost two years now,” he said, citing financial mismanagement, insurance lapses, and locked-up funds in escrow accounts.

    He promised to resolve these problems so traders currently selling on the streets can get proper spaces.

    Decongesting Kumasi

    Dr. Amoakohene has ordered the removal of unauthorized structures in Kumasi’s central area to help clear up traffic.

    “Encroachment in the city is disheartening. We urge residents to cooperate with authorities to restore order and ensure the free flow of traffic,” he said.

    Strengthening Ties With Graphic

    Dr. Amoakohene shared these updates during a visit from a team at Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL).

    The GCGL team, led by Business Manager Benjamin Tsatsu Korsinah, promised to continue reporting on the region’s development. They also gave free access to the Graphic NewsPlus app for the minister and some of his staff.

  • A/R Street lights: Govt begins installation, combats cable theft

    A/R Street lights: Govt begins installation, combats cable theft

    Major roads in the Ashanti Region that have been shrouded in darkness during late evenings are set to be illuminated again, as the government begins installing streetlights.

    This was announced by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, during a media engagement on March 7, 2025. According to him, concerns about poorly lit streets across Ghana remain widespread, as the country continues to grapple with various challenges related to street lighting.

    Over the years, inadequate street lighting has significantly contributed to road accidents. Additionally, streets that once had functioning streetlights are often left in darkness due to cable theft and vandalism.

    In response to these issues, Dr. Amoakohene has outlined measures to curb theft as the installation of new streetlights begins. One of these measures includes replacing copper cables with aluminum, which is less prone to theft.

    His office, in collaboration with the police and the Signals Unit, is also committed to tackling cable theft by sanctioning culprits to serve as a deterrent and ensure the sustainability of the project.

    “We’ve had this problem where you fix the streetlights, and people go in there to steal the cables. Copper wires are prone to theft, so we are offering an aluminum alternative. But even with that, we will make sure to set an example by prosecuting offenders. Once we do that, other criminals will know that Ghana is serious and that our security agencies are active. This will help prevent future thefts,” Dr. Amoakohene stated.

    “We work closely with the police department and the Signals Unit. The Signals Unit controls the CCTV cameras on the streets, while the police handle law enforcement. I’m sure you know what they do,” he added.

    Additionally, he plans to “employ some community task force members to help in this regard.”

    Meanwhile, the installation of streetlights has already begun on major highways such as Ejisu to Tech Roundabout and Suame to Buoho, as well as internal roads in areas like Nhyiaeso. According to reports, within a month, the streets of Kumasi will be fully lit again.

    In a related development, Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Akweley Ocloo has pledged to fix 70% of Accra’s streetlights within her first 50 days in office, emphasizing their role in security and urban development.

    However, reports indicate that many major streets, including those around Jubilee House, remain unlit, raising concerns about the fulfillment of her commitment. Residents and motorists in the capital have expressed frustration over the persistent darkness, citing increased vulnerability to crime and questioning the urgency of the minister’s efforts.

  • Police arrest 1 in Council of State election re-run in Ashanti region

    Police arrest 1 in Council of State election re-run in Ashanti region

    Security tensions heightened at the re-run of the Council of State election in the Ashanti Region after police arrested a supporter of one of the candidates for breaching security protocols.

    The suspect, believed to be an ally of former NDC regional chairman Yaw Obimpeh, was detained after attempting to bypass barricades set up by law enforcement officers at the election venue. The individual, along with others, reportedly ignored police directives to remain behind the restricted area.

    Today’s poll is a repeat of last week’s election, which was disrupted following an attack on Electoral Commission (EC) officials by a group of thugs. The violent incident led to the destruction of election materials, including cast ballot papers, prompting authorities to call off the process.

    In response, the police have strengthened security measures to prevent a recurrence. Vehicles have been barred from accessing the election venue, and six police-manned barricades have been erected along roads leading to the Prempeh Assembly Hall. Additionally, the surrounding streets have been closed to traffic.

    Hundreds of police officers have been deployed to the area, equipped with crowd control gear to maintain order as the election proceeds.

  • Cancer cases in Ashanti Region surge by 33.6% to 4,553 in 2024 – Report

    Cancer cases in Ashanti Region surge by 33.6% to 4,553 in 2024 – Report

    The Ashanti Region has recorded a sharp increase in cancer cases, with figures rising by 4,553 in 2024, marking a 33.6% surge from the previous year, according to a report by the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate.

    The report identifies breast and cervical cancers as the leading contributors to this increase, with breast cancer cases skyrocketing by 92.12% and cervical cancer rising by 75.17%. In contrast, prostate cancer cases saw a decline of 17.55% over the same period.

    The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate attributes the rising cancer burden to late diagnoses, poor treatment outcomes, and premature deaths. It also highlights low public awareness, limited access to screening services, and inadequate healthcare capacity as key factors exacerbating the situation.

    Breakdown of Cancer cases

    In 2023, the region recorded 13,551 cancer cases. By 2024, this number had climbed to 18,104. The most notable increases were seen in breast and cervical cancers. Breast cancer cases more than doubled from 292 in 2023 to 561 in 2024, while cervical cancer cases rose from 298 to 522.

    Although prostate cancer cases declined from 1,208 in 2023 to 996 in 2024, the category labeled “All Other Cancers” saw the highest increase, surging by 4,272 cases. This represented a 36.35% jump from 11,753 in 2023 to 16,025 in 2024.

    To address the growing cancer crisis, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) is aligning with global initiatives to emphasize people-centered care, particularly for prostate and liver cancers, which remain major health threats among men in Ghana.

    Ashanti Regional Health Director Fred Adomako-Boateng has called for urgent interventions, stressing that cancer care should be a national priority.

    “Although these cancers are among the leading causes of death in the country, they are unfortunately not highlighted enough for various reasons,” he stated.

    Citing data from GLOBOCAN 2022, he provided alarming statistics on prostate and liver cancers in Ghana.

    “Prostate cancer accounted for 2,393 new cases, with 1,233 deaths, reflecting a 52% mortality rate. Liver cancer in men recorded 2,656 new cases, with 2,390 deaths, translating to a staggering 90% mortality rate—meaning 9 out of 10 people diagnosed do not survive,” he said.

    Beyond the numbers, Adomako-Boateng emphasized the importance of a compassionate, individualized approach to cancer treatment.

    “Cancer is more than just a medical diagnosis—it is a deeply personal matter. A people-centered approach that fully integrates each individual’s unique needs, with compassion and empathy, leads to the best health outcomes,” he added.

    As part of the 2025 World Cancer Day commemoration, themed “United by Unique,” the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate is launching an awareness campaign to promote early detection and improved treatment.

    The campaign, according to Adomako-Boateng, will focus on strengthening healthcare facilities and personnel to enhance early diagnosis and intervention.

    “The campaign will explore different dimensions of people-centered cancer care and new ways of making a difference. It will offer a three-year journey from raising awareness to taking action,” he noted.

    He further called for increased investment in screening programs, particularly for prostate and liver cancers, and urged stakeholders to prioritize patient-centered care, including medical, psychological, and social support systems.

    “We must highlight the importance of patient-centered care, including medical, emotional, psychological, and social support through patient navigation systems while addressing gender and socioeconomic disparities,” he emphasized.

  • Galamsey: Court postpones trial for Erastus Asare Donkor’s attackers to February 12

    Galamsey: Court postpones trial for Erastus Asare Donkor’s attackers to February 12

    A renowned environmental journalist with Multimedia Group, Erastus Asare Donkor, has disclosed that six individuals will be charged in relation to a violent assault that occurred during his investigation of illegal mining activities at Asumenya in the Ashanti Region.

    The incident took place on Sunday, October 19, as the journalist was covering the environmental impact of Edelmetallum Mining Resources Limited.

    Speaking on Super Morning Show on Joy FM on Monday, January 20, Mr. Asare revealed that the hearing of the case had been postponed to February 12, 2025, due to procedural delays.

    He also confirmed that six suspects had been identified and would be prosecuted.

    “At this point, we are dealing with six, so far six,” he revealed that around ten individuals had assaulted him during the incident. Of these, two suspects have been distinctly identified as being directly involved in the attack.

    He explained, As we speak, the five drone batteries, the JBL headset, my Joy-branded jacket containing my ID card, visa cards, and other belongings are still with them, and we have no information on their whereabouts,”

    “It has not dampened our spirit to the point of giving up, no! It’s our job, and we believe we must press on and fight to the end to ensure that our polluted waters and pillaged forests are restored,” he said resolutely.

    The journalist also acknowledged the emotional impact of the incident, revealing that it had created some anxiety within his team. Despite this, he emphasized their resolve to carry on with their work.

  • 2 key processing plants in Ashanti Region on the brink of closure over raw materials shortage

    2 key processing plants in Ashanti Region on the brink of closure over raw materials shortage

    Two major soybean processing plants in the Ashanti Region are on the brink of closure due to a severe shortage of raw materials, exacerbated by large-scale exports despite government-imposed restrictions.

    Vester Oil Mills Limited, located in Kuntanase-Deduako, and Thomas W. Bello Enterprise, operating in the Bosomtwe District and Asokwa Municipality, have significantly downsized their workforce as a result.

    The shortage has had a far-reaching impact on several sectors, especially the poultry, aquaculture, and livestock industries, which rely heavily on soybean products for animal feed.

    During a visit by The Ghanaian Times on Monday, Vester Oil Mills was found operating with only 30 of its regular 150 workers, while Thomas W. Bello Enterprise had reduced its workforce from 120 to 40.

    Speaking to the press, Kwasi Nyamekye, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Vester Oil Mills Limited, explained that their primary product is soybean oil, with soya cake as a byproduct for the poultry industry.

    He noted, however, that production had been halted for nearly four months due to the raw material shortage, forcing them to lay off staff.

    Mr. Nyamekye, who also serves as the Zonal Chairman (Ashanti, Bono, Ahafo) of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), attributed the soybean shortage to increased exports by foreign traders.

    Thomas Bello, CEO of Thomas W. Bello Enterprise, blamed the situation on what he termed an “unrestrained export push” by Chinese and Indian traders.

    He explained that his company’s primary product is soya cake for the poultry industry, with oil production being a secondary output.

    Mr Bello, who is also the President of the Soya Value Chain Association of Ghana, admitted that the government’s Planting for Food and Jobs Initiative assisted members in producing soyabeans in abundance for the last two years, “but it is a surprise the initiative has taken a nosedive.”

    In his view, there should not have been any shortage, even though the Planting for Food and Jobs Initiative was not as suc­cessful as expected, attributing the current situation to crop exportation, especially by foreigners.

    The two CEOs have, therefore, urged the government to reinforce the ban and particularly monitor the borders, claiming that the produce is being smuggled to neighbouring countries, especially Togo, for export.

    They expressed worry about the ongo­ing exportation despite the ban but were hopeful the government would stem the tide to help sustain the industry.

    The Export and Import Restriction of Soybeans Regulation was passed by Parliament in October 2020 to regulate the export of soyabeans, and it came into effect on December 22, 2020.

    In August 2024, the government again announced a ban on the export of grains, including soyabeans, to ensure food securi­ty in the country.

    The ban was also to ensure the avail­ability of soyabeans for domestic use and to meet local processing requirements for animal production.

    The country’s soyabean production potential stands at an impressive 700,000 tonnes per year, but currently, only about 26 per cent of this potential is being realised.

  • Feeding crops ‘galamsey water’ more lethal than gutter water – Prof Oteng-Yeboah

    Feeding crops ‘galamsey water’ more lethal than gutter water – Prof Oteng-Yeboah

    Retired Professor of Plant and Environmental Biology at the University of Ghana, Prof. Alfred Apau Oteng-Yeboah, has raised concerns about the use of water polluted by illegal mining activities on farm crops, stating that it poses a far greater danger than water from gutters.

    Speaking with Accra-based JoyNews, the professor explained that while water from gutters, commonly used in urban farming, poses short-term illnesses caused by microbes on crops, the produce grown with water affected by illegal mining activities when consumed can lead to the accumulation of chemicals such as mercury in an organism, leading to significant health risks.

    “We have urban farming systems where many people use gutter water to irrigate small vegetable farms. You can immediately see the impact of microbes on the crops’ surfaces, but these microbes are not visible to the naked eye. We only realize their presence when people consume the crops, resulting in diseases like cholera.”

    “When water is polluted by illegal mining, particularly with heavy metals, the danger is even greater. These metals are deliberately used to extract gold, but the remnants left behind are often ignored, and they have serious environmental consequences. This is why we refer to it as an existential threat. If we do not act now, we will face a situation of bioaccumulation where living organisms, including humans, absorb these metals through the food they consume from the soil, leading to dire consequences,” he clarified.

    Prof. Oteng-Yeboah stressed the urgent need to address this issue to avert long-term harm to both human health and the environment.

    Rivers such as the Bonsa in the Western Region and the Pra in the Ashanti Region have been heavily contaminated by toxic chemicals used in mining, while forest reserves like the Tano Nimiri in the Western North Region and the Draw River in the Western Region have also suffered extensive damage.

    The pollution of the Pra River due to illegal mining activities is causing severe repercussions that extend beyond the immediate destruction of the water source and the lack of potable water for nearby communities.

    Recent developments reveal that the contaminated river water is now being used to irrigate crops, putting public health at significant risk. A cocoa farmer from Twifo Praso in the Central Region disclosed this concerning practice

    There are incessant calls from the government to take pragmatic measures to finally address the issue of illegal mining. Organized Labour, led by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has issued a stern warning to the government, threatening a nationwide strike by the end of September if decisive action is not taken to address the escalating illegal mining crisis.

    In a statement issued by Secretary General of the TUC, Organised Labour, Joshua Ansah, demanded the immediate declaration of a state of emergency in all areas affected by illegal mining.

    The group also called for a halt to all mining activities in forest reserves, the establishment of special courts to fast-track the prosecution of galamsey operators, and the deployment of the military to remove and destroy all mining equipment in affected areas.

    Watch video below:

  • Pastor allegedly beheads wife, commits suicide, leaving behind eight children

    Pastor allegedly beheads wife, commits suicide, leaving behind eight children

    Residents of Trabuom in the Atwima Kwanwoma District, Ashanti Region, are grappling with the shocking aftermath of a tragic incident involving a local pastor and his wife. On September 28, 2024, Victor Appiah, a 50-year-old pastor and founder of the End Time Rapture Family Church, allegedly killed his 46-year-old wife, Akua Emelia, in a brutal act of violence on a cassava farm.

    Witnesses report that after the incident, Victor took his own life by consuming poison. The couple, who had eight children together, had a history of domestic disputes, with Akua having previously left due to ongoing issues. Family members disclosed that Victor had recently convinced her to return to the marriage, raising concerns about their troubled relationship.

    Kofi Bonsu, Akua’s brother, provided further insight into the horrific event, stating that Victor had asked Akua to gather cassava from a nearby farm. It was there that he attacked her with a machete, taking her life in a shocking act of violence. Bonsu lamented the turn of events, expressing sorrow that what was meant to be a reconciliation led to such a tragic outcome.

    “My sister had left her husband due to some misunderstandings, but he convinced her to return. Little did we know it was a trap,” he quoted to have said.

    In a disturbing twist, Victor reportedly reached out to Akua’s mother after committing the act, confessing his crime and instructing the family to retrieve her remains from the farm.

    Local authorities have initiated an investigation into the case, leaving the community in a state of disbelief. Many residents described Victor as a respected figure in the community, known for his teachings on love and forgiveness, making the alleged crime all the more perplexing.

    “This is unbelievable. Pastor Victor was always preaching about love and forgiveness. We never suspected he was capable of such evil,” one resident is quoted as saying in disbelief. shared a community member, reflecting the collective shock. The tragic deaths have left their children orphaned, raising urgent concerns about hidden domestic violence in the community.

  • Wyllbee finally laid to rest

    Wyllbee finally laid to rest

    Struck by grief and driven by a thirst for vengeance, the family of Wilberforce Appiah, known as ‘Wyllbee,’ made an unusual choice at his funeral.

    Rather than allowing him to rest in peace, they urged him to seek retribution for his untimely death.

    Wyllbee, who did not pass away naturally, was buried with two large machetes tools intended for him to avenge himself from beyond the grave.

    In a deeply emotional ceremony, mourners gathered in Kwadaso, Ashanti Region, on Saturday, September 21, 2024.

    Wyllbee’s family performed rituals before closing the casket, signifying their plea for justice.

    His mother, overcome with grief, was inconsolable, while his father, a pastor, gave a poignant sermon that deeply resonated with those in attendance.

    The funeral attracted a large crowd, as people from all walks of life came to pay their respects to the young man whose life was cut short.

    Background:

    Reports indicated that Wyllbee was killed in Abuakwa-Tanoso, Ashanti Region while staying overnight at Nana Yaa Nyarko’s residence, a property reportedly owned by her ‘abroad-based’ husband’s family, who were unaware of Wyllbee’s presence.

    According to initial accounts, on July 5, 2024, Wyllbee was seen urinating in the compound and was confronted by residents who suspected him of being a thief.

    Wyllbee allegedly claimed he visited Nana Yaa, but she purportedly denied knowing him, to protect her marriage from her in-laws.

    This denial led to suspicion and accusations of theft among the neighbours, resulting in Wyllbee being lynched.

    Reports also mentioned that Wyllbee’s phone was destroyed with a stone during the incident.

    Family’s anger and thirst for justice

    Wyllbee’s mother and other close relatives have frequently expressed their frustration and anger at seeing her son’s alleged killers in court.

    While they remain dependent on God for justice, they also believe in the court system and that their son will ultimately be avenged.

    Court proceedings and prime suspect Nana Yaa’s woes

    As the prime suspect in the murder case, Nana Yaa had faced severe mistreatment, including being booed, chased, and attacked by an angry mob during her court appearances.

    The crowd, in some instances surrounded the police van transporting her to and from the court premises in a bid to attack.

    After many struggles, Nana Yaa was finally granted bail from a different court on August 15, 2024, having previously been denied multiple times by the Akropong District Court.

    Both she and the second accused were granted bail of GH¢100,000 each with sureties.

    Docket forwarded to the Attorney General’s office

    Reports indicated that all relevant documents and evidence in Wyllbee’s murder case have been forwarded to the Attorney General’s Office for further instructions.

    Following the latest trial on August 27, 2024, at the Akropong District Court, proceedings were adjourned until September 30, 2024.

    It was also revealed that the case may be transferred to a higher court, depending on the Attorney General’s input.

  • A/R: Activities of illegal mining worrying, shut down of production plants possible – GWCL

    A/R: Activities of illegal mining worrying, shut down of production plants possible – GWCL

    The Ghana Water Company Limited has announced that it may have to shut down two major treatment plants in the Ashanti Region due to significantly increased turbidity, which is driving up production costs.

    The Konongo and Odaso treatment plants have been severely affected by illegal mining activities, also known as ‘galamsey.’

    In a recent interview on GhanAkoma’s Akoma 87.9 FM with host Sir John, Dr. Hanson Mensah Akutteh, the company’s Production Manager, expressed serious concern over the situation.

    He warned that the shutdown could result in thousands of residents losing access to piped water.

    The Ashanti Region has ten treatment plants, including Barekese, Owabi, Mampong, Konongo, Aframso, Odaso, New Edubiase, Tepa, Agona, and Effiduase Asokore.

    “Ashanti Region has 10 treatment plants; Barekese, Owabi, Mampong, Konongo, Aframso, Odaso, New Edubiase, Tepa, Agona and Effiduase Asokore. However, out of the ten, two have a challenge; Konongo and Odaso treatment plants have been invaded by illegal miners. We are unable to treat the raw water. Shutting down the plants is possible: he said.

    However, Konongo and Odaso are currently facing challenges. Dr. Akutteh explained that the plants are struggling to treat raw water due to contamination from illegal mining.

    For instance, the Odaso plant, which should produce 4 million gallons of water daily, can only process 1.5 million gallons of raw water, with only half of that becoming potable.

    The turbidity levels have soared from 25 NTU to an alarming 5,124 NTU, pushing the company toward a potential shutdown.

  • You did no wrong – Opanyin Agyekum tells Rev. Father who performed King Paluta’s ‘Aseda’

    You did no wrong – Opanyin Agyekum tells Rev. Father who performed King Paluta’s ‘Aseda’

    Rev. Father Peter Kusi Twumasi, the acting Rector of St. Stephen Rectorate in Bodomase, Ashanti Region, has issued an apology after leading his congregation in singing King Paluta’s song “Aseda.”

    The incident, captured in a widely circulated social media video, showed the congregation singing along with enthusiasm, which sparked a range of reactions and led to the priest’s apology.

    In response to the controversy, Professor Kofi Agyekum, a renowned linguist known as Opanyin Agyekum, questioned the criticism, asking, “What defines Gospel music?”

    He asserts that there is nothing wrong with the Reverend Father’s action, asserting the song contains impactful lyrics.

    “I don’t see anything wrong with the lyrics. The impact is there, why should the Reverend Father apologise,” Opanyin Agyekum stated.

    Kwame Sefa Kayi the host of the show also asserted even ArchBishop Palmer Buckle sings Bob Marley’s redemption song asserting there is nothing wrong with Reverend Fathers singing meaningful songs.

    Watch video below:

  • I’m sad Wyllbee was murdered for nothing – Father

    I’m sad Wyllbee was murdered for nothing – Father

    The father of the late Sowutuom-based musician, Wyllbee, has recently shared his anguish regarding the tragic circumstances surrounding his son’s death in Kumasi.

    Wyllbee, a rising artist, was killed in Abuakwa-Tanoso in the Ashanti Region while staying at the home of his alleged lover, Nana Yaa Nyarko, who was residing with her husband’s family.

    On the night of Friday, July 5, 2024, Wyllbee was reportedly seen by residents while going outside to urinate.

    Suspecting him of being a thief, the residents confronted him.

    Wyllbee attempted to clarify that he was there to visit Nana Yaa Nyarko, but she reportedly denied knowing him to shield her marriage, which led to a violent altercation.

    The situation escalated when neighbors were alerted and Wyllbee was brutally beaten to death under the false accusation of theft.

    Following the initial court hearing of Nana Yaa Nyarko and other suspects involved, Wyllbee’s father expressed deep sorrow and frustration.

    He emphasized that his son was not a thief and that the circumstances of his death were deeply unjust.

    “It is heartbreaking to learn that my son was labeled a thief. I don’t believe he had any motive to steal anything from that house. We may not be wealthy, but we would never resort to theft,” he said, struggling to contain his emotions.

    “My son’s death was senseless. His music and presence on social media reflect the promising future he had, which was abruptly and unfairly taken from him.”

    He recounted his initial reaction upon hearing about the incident, unaware that his son was the victim. “My wife informed me about a young man being mistaken for a thief and beaten during a visit to his girlfriend. At that time, I didn’t know it was my son. It was my brother who went to the scene and confirmed the tragic news,” he revealed.

    Watch below video:

  • Barrage of curses, taunts from enraged crowd as Wyllbee’s alleged ‘married lover’ appears in court

    Barrage of curses, taunts from enraged crowd as Wyllbee’s alleged ‘married lover’ appears in court

    A tense and chaotic scene unfolded at the Akropong District Court as Nana Yaa Nyarko, implicated in the death of musician Wyllbee, faced an agitated crowd. Accused of playing a key role in Wyllbee’s death, which occurred at her residence, Nana Yaa appeared in court alongside several alleged accomplices. Bail was denied, and she was escorted to a police van amidst a volatile atmosphere.

    The grieving family and supporters of the late musician made their presence felt, with Nana Yaa enduring a barrage of curses and taunts from the enraged crowd. Concealed by clothing that obscured her face, she was led by police into the van while being hooted and booed by the gathered sympathizers. The case has been adjourned to August 11, 2024.

    Background details reveal that Wyllbee was killed in Abuakwa-Tanoso, Ashanti Region, while staying overnight at Nana Yaa Nyarko’s residence, a property owned by her husband’s family abroad. Reports indicate that on July 5, 2024, Wyllbee was confronted by residents after being seen urinating in the compound. Claiming he was visiting Nana Yaa, he was met with her denial, allegedly to protect her marriage from her in-laws.

    This denial fueled suspicion and accusations of theft, leading to Wyllbee’s lynching. During the incident, his phone was destroyed with a stone. Unverified reports suggest Wyllbee attempted to break into Nana Yaa’s room with a stone, prompting intervention by neighbors and the ensuing tragedy. The stone used to break the door was recovered and is being used as evidence. Contrary to the deceased’s mother’s claims, Wyllbee’s belongings were found elsewhere on the property, not near Nana Yaa’s residence.

    Watch video below:

  • Fiber Optic cable cuts in Ashanti Region will not affect subscribers’ service – MTN

    Fiber Optic cable cuts in Ashanti Region will not affect subscribers’ service – MTN

    MTN, a leading telecommunications provider, has pledged to maintain high-quality service and address the technical issues caused by recent fiber optic cable damage in the Ashanti Region.

    Over the past seven months, the company has faced 471 attacks on its underground fiber network, impacting 38 cables and leading to access issues at multiple sites.

    These disruptions, primarily caused by ongoing construction activities, have affected customers in the region.

    Charles Osei Akoto, the Regional Technical Head for the Northern Sector, discussed these challenges during a media forum in Kumasi attended by local media representatives, Momo operators, SMEs, and banks.

    He assured attendees that MTN is taking all possible technical measures to restore and maintain service quality.

    At the forum, Mr. Nii Adotey Mingle, General Manager for the Northern District, shared MTN’s latest initiatives, including a restructured approach to better support small and medium enterprises, like those in the Kejetia market.

    He also highlighted improvements in the company’s call center operations, aiming to make the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system more user-friendly and reduce the need for in-person visits to MTN offices.

    The goal is to streamline customer service and manage the high volume of incoming calls more effectively.

    Additionally, Mingle reported that the MTN Ghana Foundation has invested GHS106.5 million in various social projects, benefiting 4.5 million people across the country. These initiatives focus on education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and general community welfare.

  • NAPO hailing from here does not guarantee that we will vote for you – Kumasi market women

    NAPO hailing from here does not guarantee that we will vote for you – Kumasi market women

    Traders at the Racecourse Market in Kumasi have expressed their dissatisfaction with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), urging Ashanti region voters to explore other options in the upcoming December 2024 general elections.

    Their discontent is partly due to the selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, as the running mate for the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    At a press conference on July 15, 2024, the market women voiced their frustration, accusing the NPP of neglecting the region despite its longstanding support for the party.

    In their message to the NPP, the Racecourse market women warned that,

    “If Bawumia thinks we will vote for him because he is from the Ashanti Region, then he should forget about it. We are no more going to vote based on where we come from but rather who can bring development to Asanteman”.

    The traders pointed to the halted construction of critical projects, such as the Kumasi Central Market and the Krofrom Market, as the basis for their grievances.

    Spokesperson for the traders, Christabel Amoah, stressed that although Dr. Opoku Prempeh is from the Ashanti Region, his nearly two-decade tenure as MP has not resulted in significant benefits for the community.

    “We don’t have a proper place to use as our market. We live in water. Racecourse has been deserted. We stay under the sun from morning till dusk for our daily bread. Sometimes we are overrun by vehicles and some even lose their lives through it.

    “NAPO has been MP for 16 years and the abandoned Krofrom Market is in his constituency so we expected him to fix it so we could use it but he didn’t. And we don’t expect him to address our problems at this juncture when he has been appointed as running mate,” onuaonline.com quoted her to have said during the press conference.

    The traders also emphasized their lack of support during crises, such as fire outbreaks, noting that the MP has not engaged with them to help find solutions.

    “A lot has happened in our market including fire outbreaks but there has not been a single instance where he has come to us to share in our problems to help solve them” she added.

  • 2024 BECE: Two teachers in police custody for exam malpractice at Jachie Pramso

    2024 BECE: Two teachers in police custody for exam malpractice at Jachie Pramso

    Two additional teachers have been arrested in Jachie Pramso, Ashanti Region, over alleged examination malpractice, following the earlier arrest of three teachers and two residents in Bekwai on the first day of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

    In an interview with Channel One News, Divine Walanyo Agbonyo, the Ashanti Regional Branch Controller of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), stated that some supervisors accused of colluding with private schools to assist students during the exams have been replaced.

    He warned teachers and parents to stay away from examination centers to prevent further malpractices, stressing that severe penalties await anyone caught cheating.

    The Branch Controller also mentioned that some teachers and residents arrested in Bekwai on the first day were arraigned on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.

    “On Monday some people were arrested at Bekwai. On Tuesday we arrested some teachers too at Jachie Pramso. So far in Kumasi, these are the ones that have been brought to my notice. Before the exam started, we had a hint that some supervisors were arranging with private schools to take money so they could assist their students. We’ve had them removed.”

    “Bekwai, three teachers were arrested, and those three teachers happened to be from a private school. Two guys, they were town folks at Jachie Pramso, two teachers. They have been arrested so far.”

  • Tragic accidents in Ashanti Region kills 6, injures 11

    Tragic accidents in Ashanti Region kills 6, injures 11

    An incident at Suame-Maakro in Kumasi has tragically lead to the death of four individuals and 11 others who sustained severe injuries early Tuesday morning.

    The collision occurred when a cargo vehicle en route to Burkina Faso collided with an urban bus. Two victims succumbed immediately, while the other two passed away upon arrival at the Tafo Government Hospital.

    Eyewitnesses stated that the crash occurred at approximately 6:00 am as the bus, registered as As-3600-17, was refueling at a gas station and merging onto the main road.

    The collision with the cargo truck, identified by registration WR-184-N, resulted in the fatalities. Bystanders at the scene aided in transporting the injured to the hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention.

    Authorities in Suame have officially acknowledged the accident and commenced an inquiry.

    Meanwhile, in another incident, two individuals perished in a fiery head-on collision between motorcycles at Offinso Kwaagyekrom near Offinso Anyinasuso in the Ashanti Region.

    Emergency responders swiftly transported two others with critical injuries to Offinso Hospital for immediate medical care.

    The tragic event unfolded last Tuesday when two motorcycles collided, resulting in one catching fire.

    The deceased individuals have been transferred to Offinso Saint Patrick Hospital, while the injured victims received transportation to Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

  • 2024 elections: “Nobody can stop us” – Chairman Wontumi

    2024 elections: “Nobody can stop us” – Chairman Wontumi

    Regional Chairman for the Ashanti Region and a prominent figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi expressed strong confidence in the party’s prospects for victory in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    During the unveiling of NAPO at the Manhyia Palace, he emphasized the NPP’s readiness and optimism about the election’s straightforward nature.

    Chairman Wontumi asserted that the party has meticulously prepared to secure victory, declaring, “We have numerous strategies to win the 2024 elections. Nobody can stop us,” Chairman Wontumi stated.

    Thousands of NPP supporters gathered at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi for the official unveiling of NAPO, who was announced as the running mate to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s flagbearer.

    The event brought business activities in the central business district to a halt as jubilant party supporters flooded the area in NPP colors and attire.

    The announcement of NAPO’s candidacy sparked spontaneous celebrations across the city.

  • “We’ve 1 million ways to win 2024 elections” – Chairman Wontumi

    “We’ve 1 million ways to win 2024 elections” – Chairman Wontumi

    Regional Chairman for Ashanti Region and a prominent figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi exuded confidence in the party’s prospects for victory in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    During the unveiling of NAPO at the Manhyia Palace, he expressed optimism, describing the election as potentially straightforward.

    Chairman Wontumi emphasized the NPP’s readiness, asserting that the party has thoroughly prepared to secure victory, stating, “We have one million ways to win the 2024 elections.”

    Thousands of supporters of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) gathered at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi for the official unveiling of NAPO.

    The party unveiled Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, known as “NAPO,” as the running mate to their flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the 2024 general elections.

    Several business activities have stopped for several hours.

    The central business district and areas around the Jubilee Park are overflowing with a stream of NPP colours as party supporters clad themselves in party paraphernalia in support of NAPO’s unveiling.

    The was spontaneous wild jubilations across the city after he was named as the running mate of the NPP.

  • A/R: Woman goes blind after boyfriend assaulted her at Tarkwa-Maakro

    A/R: Woman goes blind after boyfriend assaulted her at Tarkwa-Maakro

    A 40-year-old woman has reportedly lost her sight following an alleged assault by her boyfriend, 43, a self-styled pastor turned street preacher Tarkwa-Maakro, Douglas Appiah, Suame Municipality, Ashanti Region.

    According to Naomi Asante, the victim, she decided to end her relationship with Appiah and move out of their shared room.

    In response, Appiah allegedly subjected her to severe beatings, repeatedly slamming her head against a wall, which resulted in her blindness.

    Naomi recounted her ordeal to student journalists at the OTEC School of Journalism and Communication Studies, Obaaku Sika Amponsah and Asonaba Kwadwo Wusu, on Sunday, July 7, 2024. She disclosed that after the assault, she was confined to a room for a week without assistance.

    Doctors at Okomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital have warned Naomi that immediate intervention is crucial to potentially reverse her condition and prevent permanent blindness.

    Local authorities have arrested Pastor Douglas Appiah. Assembly Member Prince Asamoah Boakye confirmed that Naomi was found locked in a room and showed signs of physical trauma, consistent with her account based on preliminary police investigations.

    However, Pastor Appiah has denied the allegations, asserting that Naomi suffers from a “spiritual problem” that causes violent behavior. He claims she fell and injured herself, leading to blindness.

    The conflicting stories have raised community concern, especially as residents attest that Naomi had normal vision before the incident.

  • Shooting incident at Baniekrom kills 3, schools abandoned

    Shooting incident at Baniekrom kills 3, schools abandoned

    Following a tragic shooting incident that claimed three lives in Baniekrom, Ahafo Ano Southwest District of the Ashanti Region, local schools are noticeably deserted.

    Residents and leaders are urging for police protection amidst fears sparked by the incident.

    Allegedly, youths from a neighboring community were shot by a local fetish priest, Osman Majeed, who claimed self-defense against an alleged attack.

    The shooting, near God is One Preparatory School, has led to a sharp drop in attendance, with only 30 out of over 100 pupils showing up for classes.

    Concerned residents have requested a temporary closure of schools due to safety concerns, highlighting the absence of police presence in the area.


    “So, we went there yesterday [Wednesday], in the morning, we pleaded with the proprietor that he should close down the school for three days at least so that we do not know what may happen, so he also agreed with us and he has done that.”

  • Stop doing ‘stupid’ things on the internet – Asamoah Gyan comically tells Funny Face

    Stop doing ‘stupid’ things on the internet – Asamoah Gyan comically tells Funny Face

    In a light-hearted encounter in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghanaian comedian Funny Face crossed paths with renowned footballer Asamoah Gyan.

    Upon entering the room, Funny Face loudly praised Gyan as one of the world’s premier footballers, prompting a playful rebuke from Gyan.

    He humorously asked Funny Face to lower his voice and jokingly scolded him for his antics on the internet.

    Their meeting continued with laughter and casual conversation.

    In a video shared by Express GH TV on YouTube, Funny Face, speaking in Twi, exclaimed, “This is Asamoah! Let’s acknowledge Asamoah Gyan, one of the best footballers in the world. But today, he will see something.”

    During their banter, Gyan jovially interjected, “Don’t you have respect? I came to Kumasi to help Ghana. On July 6, there’s a program and you are here misbehaving. Today I came for you, those silly things you’ve been doing on the internet…”

    Gyan’s visit to Kumasi was part of his commitment to a program scheduled for July 6 aimed at supporting Ghanaian sports.

    This initiative aims to revitalize grassroots sports across the country’s 16 regions through regional trials to identify top athletes who will compete against their counterparts from other regions.

    Watch video below:

  • A/R: Shooting in Barniekrom claims 3 lives

    A/R: Shooting in Barniekrom claims 3 lives

    The Ghana Police Service has initiated an investigation following the shooting of three individuals by suspect Osman Majeed near Barniekrom, close to Mankranso in the Ashanti Region.

    On Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024, the Police received reports alleging that the suspect had shot three individuals, asserting they were part of a group intending to harm him.

    A police team promptly visited the scene and transported the bodies of the deceased to the morgue for preservation and further examination.

    Among the items recovered from the scene were a motorbike, 8 spent cartridges, and four cutlasses.

    In an official statement, the Police disclosed that efforts are underway to locate the whereabouts of suspect Osman Majeed, who is currently evading capture.

  • Musician Strongman involved in an accident

    Musician Strongman involved in an accident

    Ghanaian musician Osei Kwaku Vincent, better known as Strongman Burner, was recently involved in an accident on the Mamponteng road in the Ashanti Region.

    Reports indicate that the accident occurred when a Sprinter car attempted an improper overtaking maneuver and rear-ended Strongman’s vehicle.

    Fortunately, the collision was minor, and no serious injuries or fatalities were reported.

    In a video shared by Express GH TV on YouTube, Strongman is seen expressing his frustration over the reckless driving.

    Speaking in Twi, he remarked, “If you want to overtake me, wait until it’s safe or signal me. I had to stop for pedestrians. This is unacceptable. Did you expect me to keep moving while people were crossing the road?”

    The video’s narrator further explained, “Strongman had an accident on the Mamponteng road in Ahwea. The other vehicle hit his car from behind, causing some damage. Strongman is understandably upset about the incident.”

    Despite the mishap, Strongman was unharmed but remained visibly displeased with the other driver’s actions.

    Watch video below:

  • Video: Spirit of a dead man possesses a young lady, who delivers a message to a widow

    Video: Spirit of a dead man possesses a young lady, who delivers a message to a widow

    A viral video circulating on social media, an extraordinary event unfolded at a funeral in Kunsu, within the Ahafo Ano South District of the Ashanti Region.

    Witnesses were astonished as they observed a remarkable traditional ritual where the spirit of a deceased man seemingly inhabited a young woman’s body.

    According to local beliefs, this phenomenon serves as a conduit for departed souls to impart vital messages.

    In this instance, the spirit conveyed a heartfelt plea to the widow and her family, emphasizing the utmost importance of caring for his sole child.

    The video has sparked intrigue and discussion, illustrating the profound cultural practices and beliefs that continue to resonate within the community.

    Watch video below:

  • Land guard incidents rise in Ashanti Region

    Land guard incidents rise in Ashanti Region

    The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has issued a stern warning that it will arrest and prosecute individuals who hire land guards in the region.

    REGSEC has emphasized that even the land guards themselves will face legal consequences.

    This caution follows REGSEC’s serious concern over the increasing illegal activities of land guards in several communities within the region.

    Land guards, organized criminal groups engaged in protecting land and property during disputes, often resort to violence, leading to violent clashes.

    In a statement endorsed by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, it was highlighted that historically, all stool lands in the Ashanti Region are under the authority of His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, with his chiefs acting as caretakers.

    This framework provides ample avenues to resolve land disputes by appealing to His Majesty.

    REGSEC urged residents to utilize appropriate channels for addressing land issues rather than resorting to land guards, whose activities pose threats to law-abiding citizens and contribute to violence.

    The statement concluded with REGSEC urging the public to comply strictly with these directives to maintain peace, order, and safety in the region, emphasizing the collective responsibility to foster an orderly and peaceful Ashanti Region.

    “Based on this fact, the Ashanti Regional Security Council requests all citizens in the region to use the right procedures to address their land disputes rather than to employ the use of land guards whose activities always threaten law-abiding citizens and result in violence.

    “It is the expectation of the Regional Security Council, that the public will accept the above directives for strict compliance to ensure peace in the region. Let us all work together to make the Region an orderly, safe, and peaceful one.” the statement added.

  • Miner defrauded in GHS98,000 gold transaction by colleague in Ashanti Region

    Miner defrauded in GHS98,000 gold transaction by colleague in Ashanti Region

    A miner in New Edubiase, Ashanti Region, is assessing his damages after falling victim to a GH¢98,000 gold fraud by a fellow worker.

    The accuser, Simon Nyarko, also a miner from Tarkwa – Akyempim, reported to authorities that he and Emmanuel Opoku, a resident of New Edubiase, have conducted business together for the past two years.

    As stated by the complainant in a police report seen by MyNewsGh.com, both departed from Tarkwa-Akyempim on a motorcycle and halted at Dunkwa Junction to vend a portion of gold, netting GH¢98,000.00 from the transaction.

    He entrusted the specified amount to the suspect for safekeeping in his bag, and they proceeded to New Edubiase, the suspect’s hometown, for him to introduce the complainant to his relatives.

    En route, the complainant relinquished control of his motorcycle to the suspect for driving, as he was unfamiliar with the route.

    Upon arrival in New Edubiase, the suspect left the motorcycle parked outside a particular house in Asamenya, a neighborhood of New Edubiase, instructing the complainant to wait while he retrieved his key from his spouse, but he never returned.

    The suspect absconded with the motorcycle, the funds, and the complainant’s cellphone.

    Despite exhaustive attempts to locate the suspect, they were unsuccessful, prompting the complainant to file an official report with law enforcement.

    Authorities state that they are actively pursuing the suspect to aid in their inquiries.

  • Lifeless body of 22-year-old driver’s mate found in gutter at Atimatim

    Lifeless body of 22-year-old driver’s mate found in gutter at Atimatim

    A 22-year-old driver’s mate known as Tupac, Owusu Michael, was tragically discovered deceased in a gutter at Edwenease near Atimatim in the Afigya Kwabere South District of the Ashanti Region.

    The incident occurred on June 19, 2024.

    Local residents suspect that he was hit by a car and left in the gutter to die.

    Mr. Mustapha Seidu, who worked alongside the deceased, recounted being informed by residents who found the body when Owusu Michael did not show up for work.

    “I normally work with him, but he failed to show up for work today, so I had to find another driver’s mate. Only for me to be told that he has been killed,” Mr. Seidu said.

    “I rushed to the scene and discovered that, indeed, my boy was gone. It’s very difficult now to understand what or who must have killed him, but I will leave that to the police.”

    Upon arriving at the scene, he confirmed the loss and expressed bewilderment over the circumstances of his colleague’s death.

    The Assembly Member for the area, Hon. Somiye Dai, believes foul play was involved, suggesting the deceased may have been assaulted before being left in the gutter.

    “After the police came over to do their preliminary investigations, I saw some marks and cuts around the body. I may not be a policeman, but I suspect he was beaten to death by some unknown assailants,” he said.

    “Meanwhile, I would encourage residents and family to leave the investigations to the police in order to get the right information.”

  • Only individuals with tanks in their head will criticize me for honoring Bawumia’s call – King Paluta

    Only individuals with tanks in their head will criticize me for honoring Bawumia’s call – King Paluta

    New Artiste of the Year King Paluta has called out his critics as “empty-headed” for condemning his decision to accept an invitation from the Vice President.

    During a three-day tour of the Ashanti Region, the rapper-turned-singer was seen performing his popular song ‘Aseda’ for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, a favorite of the Vice President.

    Facing backlash for his involvement in political activities amid a tense political climate, King Paluta defended his actions on Accra-based United Television.

    He dismissed the criticism, arguing that there is no issue with accepting an invitation from the Vice President, whom he described as a respected elder.

    Responding to a presenter’s critique of his participation, King Paluta remarked, “I think the presenter is not thinking straight. Even he feels slighted when artistes don’t honor invitations, so why should it be different for the Vice President? I attended because the Vice President wanted to see me. If that bothers you, it’s your problem. I used my own fuel to get there, and if he helps with the cost, what’s wrong with that?”

  • NDC sacks communication member for attributing Mahama’s 24-hour-economy to rearing lions, elephants

    NDC sacks communication member for attributing Mahama’s 24-hour-economy to rearing lions, elephants

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has distanced itself from one of its Communicators in the Ashanti Region, Dr. William Atta Wusu, following controversial remarks he made on Kesseben TV in Kumasi.

    In the video, Dr. Atta Wusu discussed the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy, suggesting the party would implement a program involving the rearing of lions as part of modern farming techniques, with helicopters feeding them.

    This statement led to widespread confusion and criticism, prompting the NDC to disown Dr. Wusu.

    The party clarified that he is not a parliamentary candidate or a member of the regional communications team.

    “My attention has been drawn to a video in circulation in which one Dr. William Atta Wusu is seen on Kessben FM offering a bizarre explanation of the transformational 24-hour economy policy of the NDC”.

    The statement said “For the records, Dr. William Atta is neither a Parliamentary Candidate nor a member of the NDC’s regional communications team that I lead. The views expressed by him on the 24-hour economy policy don’t in any way represent the position of the party”.

    “We urge all producers of various political talk shows in the Ashanti Region to stick to the approved list of communicators sanctioned by the party in inviting representatives of the NDC to their programs” the statement underscored.

    In response, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), criticized the NDC’s 24-hour economy proposal.

    He argued that the NDC’s past record on power supply issues during their previous tenure undermines their credibility to implement such a policy now.

    Jinapor highlighted the challenges faced by businesses during the NDC’s previous administration due to erratic power supply (“dumsor”). He questioned the NDC’s ability to ensure a 24-hour economy given their track record, emphasizing the party’s struggles in explaining the specifics of the policy to the public.

    Overall, the controversy surrounding Dr. Atta Wusu’s comments has led to a broader discussion about the feasibility and credibility of the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy proposal.

  • 4 highlights of Bawumia’s tour of the Ashanti Region

    4 highlights of Bawumia’s tour of the Ashanti Region

    Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia recently concluded a three-day tour of the Ashanti Region, a critical stronghold for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The tour, marked by strategic engagements and massive turnouts, showcased Bawumia’s growing influence and support base within the region.

    Here are four significant wins from his tour:

    1. Securing Kennedy Agyapong’s Support

    Kennedy Agyapong‘s presence on the campaign trail in the Ashanti Region, following his defeat to Bawumia in the NPP flagbearer race, is seen as a major win. Agyapong’s participation is expected to bolster the NPP’s campaign in both the Ashanti Region and the Central Region, where his constituency is located.

    2. Drawing Mammoth Crowds

    Bawumia’s ability to attract large crowds, numbering in the hundreds of thousands in places like Kejetia and Adum, underscores the region’s readiness to support his candidacy in the 2024 elections. The impressive turnout is a strong indicator of his popularity and acceptance among the electorate.

    3. Personalized Campaign Approach

    Bawumia’s campaign strategy, characterized by spontaneous interactions with people on the streets and visits to residents’ homes, has been well-received. This personal touch has drawn comparisons to former President John Evans Atta Mills’ successful 2008 campaign, emphasizing a connection with the grassroots.

    4. Consistent Messaging and Royal Endorsement

    His meeting with the regional House of Chiefs, particularly the Mamponghene’s praise and the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s tacit support, have significantly boosted his campaign.

    The Asantehene’s acknowledgment of Bawumia’s high regard within the House and the region further solidifies his standing among traditional leaders and the populace.

    Overall, Bawumia’s Ashanti Region tour has been characterized by strong momentum, consistent messaging, and notable endorsements, positioning him as a formidable contender in the upcoming elections and bolstering the NPP’s “Breaking The Eight” agenda.

  • 5,000-seater gov’t multipurpose stadium in Ashanti Region left to rot

    5,000-seater gov’t multipurpose stadium in Ashanti Region left to rot

    A 5,000-seater multipurpose stadium, constructed by the Government of Ghana in the Ashanti Region has been left to rot since its inauguration in 2020.

    This revelation came to light after sports journalist Saddick Adams visited the site and discovered the facility’s current state of disrepair.

    The stadium, which was inaugurated a week before the 2020 elections, has never been opened to the public or utilized for any significant events since then.

    Despite its potential to serve as a venue for various sporting and cultural activities, the facility has been left abandoned, surrounded by overgrown vegetation and showing signs of neglect.

    The situation has raised questions about the government’s priorities and its commitment to the development of sports infrastructure in the region.

    Saddick Adams, in a statement, expressed his frustration at the government’s failure renting a private training facility for the Black Stars ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier game against the Central African Republic instead of making use of the stadium, especially considering its proximity to Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region

    The Black Stars’ recent match against the Central African Republic, held at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, saw Ghana triumph with a 3-2 victory.

  • Gov’t rented a private training facility for Black Stars when there was a gov’t multipurpose stadium – Saddick Adams

    Gov’t rented a private training facility for Black Stars when there was a gov’t multipurpose stadium – Saddick Adams

    The Government of Ghana has come under scrutiny for reportedly renting a private training facility for the Black Stars ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier game against the Central African Republic.

    This decision has raised eyebrows, especially considering the presence of a newly constructed multipurpose stadium in the Ashanti Region, which has remained unused since its inauguration in 2020.

    Sports journalist Saddick Adams has highlighted the government’s questionable choice, pointing out that the 5,000-seater multipurpose stadium, built at a cost of around $40 million, has been left to rot in the bush.

    This facility, located just a stone’s throw away from Kumasi, was inaugurated a week before the 2020 elections but has not been opened to the public or utilized for any significant events since then.

    Adams, along with his team, recently visited the site and documented its current state of disrepair.

    In a statement, Saddick Adams expressed his bewilderment and frustration at the situation. “Why,” he simply asked.

    The Black Stars’ recent match against the Central African Republic, held at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, saw Ghana triumph with a 3-2 victory.

  • Tablet distribution for SHS students takes off in Ashanti Region

    Tablet distribution for SHS students takes off in Ashanti Region

    On Wednesday, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia officially launched the distribution of the government’s Tablet Computers to Senior High School (SHS) students in Kumasi.

    This initiative is part of the government’s One Student One Tablet Programme, aimed at accelerating ICT-aided teaching and learning, and is implemented by the Ministry of Education.

    The programme plans to provide free tablets to approximately 1.2 million public senior high school students.

    It was initially launched by President Akufo-Addo in March in Accra as part of the Ghana Smart Schools Project, which seeks to transform existing school facilities into Smart Schools and build new structures where needed.

    In addition to students, teachers and staff of the Ghana Education Service will receive free laptops under a separate arrangement to facilitate research, teaching, and learning. Both laptops and tablets come preloaded with learning materials, including textbooks.

    During the ceremony, Vice President Bawumia also inaugurated the Nana Akufo-Addo Smart Block at Opoku Ware School. This block is equipped with digital devices such as Smart Boards, computers, and internet access, making it the first Smart School under the Ghana Smart Schools Project.

    Addressing the event, Vice President Bawumia emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a digitally modernized learning environment in senior high schools nationwide. He highlighted the importance of digital reforms in ensuring students are prepared for the fourth industrial revolution.

    He described the occasion as historic, noting, “Ghana is among few countries in the world where government has supplied students with Tablet computers and this is to ensure the future does not elude our children”.

    “Ghanaian students must face the 4th industrial revolution with a sense of pride and a mindset for growth”, he said to a cheering crowd of students.


    The Headmaster of the school who is also the National President of the Conference of the Heads of Assisted Schools (CHASS), Rev. Fr. Steven Owusu Sekyere pledged a good use for the facilities.

    Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwi, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, also spoke at the event, stressing that Ghanaian students must embrace the digital age with pride and a growth mindset.

    The Headmaster of Opoku Ware School and National President of the Conference of the Heads of Assisted Schools (CHASS), Rev. Fr. Steven Owusu Sekyere, pledged to ensure the facilities are used responsibly and effectively.

    Bishop Gabriel Yaw Anokye of the Catholic Church in Kumasi commended the government for its efforts to transform educational institutions.

    Vice President Bawumia personally handed out tablets to some students, with all senior high schools in the region expected to receive their tablets soon.

    The distribution of tablets began in March, with many schools already having distributed them under various phases of the project.

    The Ghana Smart Schools Project aims to enhance the quality, delivery, and outcomes of the Free Senior High Schools Programme, also known as Free SHS.

    The government has also announced plans to introduce the Free SHS Act in Parliament to provide legislative backing for the programme.

  • Bawumia rocks Ashanti Region during 3-day tour

    Bawumia rocks Ashanti Region during 3-day tour

    The flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, was warmly received by the residents of the Ashanti Region as he embarked on a three-day campaign tour aimed at consolidating support ahead of the 2024 elections.

    Dr. Bawumia’s tour drew massive crowds who gathered to show their support for the NPP presidential candidate. His itinerary included meetings with local leaders, community members, and various professional bodies, all of whom expressed strong support for his candidacy.

    The tour commenced with a meeting at the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs, where Dr. Bawumia discussed his vision for both the region and the nation.

    The chiefs praised his efforts to bring development projects to the area, particularly the 500-bed Afari Military Hospital and the 250-bed Sewua Hospital. These projects, once completed, are expected to alleviate pressure on the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and significantly improve healthcare delivery in the region.

    Dr. Bawumia also addressed a gathering of market women, traders, and small business owners, reiterating his commitment to supporting local businesses through favorable policies and financial assistance. The market women voiced their appreciation for the government’s initiatives to stabilize the economy and create opportunities for growth. Dr. Bawumia assured them that under his leadership, the NPP would continue to prioritize economic development and job creation.

    In addition to these engagements, Dr. Bawumia visited several educational institutions, interacting with students and teachers. He emphasized the importance of education in national development and pledged to enhance educational infrastructure and resources. The students and faculty members responded positively to his message, expressing hope for continued improvements in the sector. Dr. Bawumia’s engagement with the youth underscored his commitment to building a brighter future for the next generation.

    Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, Dr. Bawumia thanked the people of Ashanti for their unwavering support and promised to work tirelessly to address their needs.

    He highlighted the achievements of the NPP government and outlined his plans for further development.

    The overwhelming reception he received in the Ashanti Region demonstrated the strong backing he enjoys as he seeks to lead the country in the upcoming elections.

  • VIDEO: Plush mansion of Prophet Adom Kyei Duah located at Pokuase

    VIDEO: Plush mansion of Prophet Adom Kyei Duah located at Pokuase

    Founder and leader of Believers Worship Centre, Prophet Stephen Adom Kyei Duah has sparked a buzz online after a video showcasing his luxurious mansion went viral.

    Based in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region, Prophet Adom Kyei Duah has made a grand entry into Accra by constructing a multi-million dollar mansion.

    The footage reveals a lavish property featuring a gold-plated main gate and a house made entirely of glass.

    Recognized as one of the most esteemed religious leaders in the country, Prophet Adom Kyei Duah boasts a congregation exceeding 100,000 members nationwide.

    Despite varying opinions about his sermons and doctrines, he remains a highly influential pastor, frequently followed and watched on television by many.

    Watch video below: