TIG Post

Tag: Kotoka International Airport

  • VVIP lounge of Accra International Airport closed temporarily for renovations, set to reopen on April 10th

    VVIP lounge of Accra International Airport closed temporarily for renovations, set to reopen on April 10th

    The VVIP Lounge of the Accra International Airport (AIA) has been closed temporarily for renovation works aimed at improving the facility.

    This was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday, April 3, 2026, in a public statement. The scheduled exercise is expected to last until Friday, April 10, to allow for renovation works.

    In a public announcement issued in Accra, officials said the refurbishment is intended to enhance the safety, comfort, and overall functionality of the facility used by high-level dignitaries and official guests.

    “The closure is to allow for scheduled renovation works aimed at enhancing the safety, comfort, and overall functionality of the facility,” the statement said.

    The ministry added that the exercise forms part of broader efforts to upgrade key national infrastructure and improve service delivery.

    It also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining efficient and high-quality public service despite the temporary disruption.

    https://twitter.com/FelixKwakyeOfo1/status/2040144260385718690/photo/3

    The VVIP Lounge at the airport is typically reserved for senior government officials, diplomats and other high-profile travellers.

    In a Twitter post shared by the Minister of Government Communications today, April 4, it noted that the Airport Authority project is set for an expansion and renovation. The project will include five new passenger boarding bridges, five passenger holding areas, bi-directional travelators, five new escalators and elevators, one VIP lounge, four business lounges, and four new retail/duty-free pods, among other facilities.

    KIA changed to Accra International Airport 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    About Kotoka and the redesignation to Accra International Airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Minority reacts to name change

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kotoka International Airport officially renamed Accra International Airport after 57 years

    Kotoka International Airport officially renamed Accra International Airport after 57 years

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    About Kotoka and the redesignation to Accra International Airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Minority reacts to name change

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Work on Hajj Village progressing, completion due 2026 – Contractor

    Work on Hajj Village progressing, completion due 2026 – Contractor

    The new multipurpose Hajj Village at the Kotoka International Airport project is about 55% complete, Mawums Limited, the contractor, has revealed.

    During a tour of the facility by the Board and Management of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), led by the Member of Parliament for Builsa North and Board Chairman, James Agalga, the contractor indicated that the project will be brought to completion before close of 2026.


    The Hajj Village will streamline pre-departure procedures, ensuring a more organized and efficient experience for pilgrims heading to Mecca.

    As part of preparations for this year’s pilgrimage, President Mahama has also announced plans to airlift 5,000 Ghanaian pilgrims.


    The facility, when completed, is expected to improve the management of Hajj operations, easing congestion and enhancing travel logistics for the annual religious journey.


    Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted claims that taxpayer money is being used to fund the construction of the new Hajj Village.


    He clarified that the project is solely financed by the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) and does not rely on public funds.


    Addressing concerns in a post on X, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu emphasized the government’s position, stating, “FACT: The Hajj Village is primarily an Airport Terminal Building for check-in and pilgrim facilitation owned and being built by the Ghana Airport Company. Not a pesewa of taxpayers’ money involved.”


    His comments come in response to public discussions surrounding the financial sources and purpose of the facility.

    Some Ghanaians questioned the priorities of the government and what they believed to be the neglect of some communities in devastating state, particularly the Volta Region, battling coastal erosion.


    Former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo has slammed the government for prioritizing the construction of a Hajj Village, arguing that such an investment is unjustifiable given Ghana’s struggling economy.


    Domelevo questioned the rationale behind committing resources to a religious infrastructure project while the country faces severe financial challenges.


    He pointed out that Ghana is still dealing with the fallout from the $58 million spent on the National Cathedral, which has yielded little tangible progress.


    “It is truly astonishing especially as we grapple with recovering over $58 million squandered on the National Cathedral project—that one of the key priorities of the Mahama administration is the fruitless and wasteful Hajj Village project,” he remarked.


    His comments came in response to assurances by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who claimed that the Hajj Village project would not be funded by taxpayers.

    Domelevo dismissed this assertion as misleading, stressing that the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), which is overseeing the project, is a state-owned enterprise. He argued that since the government is likely a major shareholder, public funds could inevitably be involved.


    Domelevo further contrasted Ghana’s priorities with Ethiopia’s approach to development. He noted that despite Ethiopia’s significant Muslim population, the country has chosen to invest in infrastructure that boosts economic growth, such as a five-star Skylight hotel with over 1,000 rooms and expanded airport facilities to enhance passenger transit.


    In comparison, he expressed disappointment that Ghana is focusing on a Hajj Village. “We should stop celebrating mediocrity,” he concluded.

    The next Hajj is set to take place from Monday, 25 May 2026 to Saturday, 30 May 2026, corresponding to 8th–13th Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH.

    Ghana has a history of Hajj pilgrims being asked to pay levies, extra charges, and fees outside the official payment channels to cover their travel and related expenses.

    These practices have been widely criticised, as the additional fees often lacked transparency, leaving pilgrims and their families uncertain about how their money was being used.


    Consequently, the president has charged this new board to reflect effective leadership by being transparent.


    “The second is transparency and accountability. Pilgrims and their families must know how their money is used. All payments must pass through approved and traceable channels. No unofficial levies. No hidden charges. Transparency builds trust, and trust is the currency of leadership”.

    The priority area, as mentioned by the President, is the health of pilgrims, particularly of the aged and persons with disabilities.
    Fifteen lives have been lost in the last two years following their travel to the Holy Land of Mecca.


    In 2024, eight pilgrims lost their lives, and their deaths were linked to an extreme heat wave, with temperatures above 41°C. Saudi authorities even directed pilgrims to remain in tents during peak heat hours to reduce exposure.

    Although in 2025, the death toll went down by one, five females and two males lost their lives to similar conditions of heat exceeding 48°C, which posed serious risks, especially for the elderly.


    To avoid a recurrence, he told the board, to liaise with the Ghana Health Service (GHS), to give priority to the health of pilgrims, particularly the elderly, “coordinate with the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Transport, and our embassy in Riyadh to ensure safe travel, decent accommodation, adequate meals, and strong medical support. Happily, we have a doctor, a heart surgeon, on the Hajj Board this time, so I expect health issues to be managed effectively. Pay special attention to elderly pilgrims, women, and persons with disabilities. Their comfort is a sacred duty of the Hajj Board”.


    He continued, “The fourth is conduct and service. Every official, from board members to volunteers, must act with courtesy, discipline, fairness, and honesty. Our pilgrims should feel respected at every point, from registration to their safe return home. The fifth is partnership and communication.


    Maintain open and constant engagement with the Office of the National Chief Imam, your regional imams, travel partners and agents, and especially the Saudi authorities.


    Coordination prevents crises, and communication prevents rumours”.


    He also tasked the Board with developing a Hajj Mobile Application to enable pilgrims to register, verify their status, track payments, and access travel information, noting that such innovation would reduce fraud and ease congestion.


    In a related development, President Mahama in May this year announced that the continuous appreciation of the local currency could reduce the fees Ghanaian Muslims pay to travel to Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.


    President John Dramani Mahama announced this during his Thank You Tour in Kintampo in the Bono East Region on Thursday, May 29.


    According to him, pilgrims are likely to pay as low as GHC 50,000 next year, down from GHS 62,000.


    “At the time we started paying for the Hajj, the Cedi was at GHC15.5 to the dollar. So, the fare we came up with for the $4,000 cost to do the Hajj came to GHC 62,000,” he explained.


    “Next year, if you do a calculation with where the Cedi is currently—GHC 10.5—it means the fare for Hajj may go below GHC 50,000.”


    This year’s pilgrimage recorded a massive turnout following the Mahama-led government’s decision to reduce the Hajj pilgrimage fee from 62,000 to 75,000 Ghana cedis under the previous administration.


    Approximately 6,000 Ghanaian Muslims travelled to Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2025. These numbers show an increase of 2,000 Ghanaian participants as compared to 4,000 last year.

  • Charges dropped against 3rd accused in Adu Boahen GHS49m trial

    Charges dropped against 3rd accused in Adu Boahen GHS49m trial

    Prosecution against the third accused person, Mildred Donkor, in the ongoing GHS49 million theft case involving former National Signals Bureau boss, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, and his wife, Angela Adjei-Boateng, has been discontinued by the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine.


    Ms. Donkor was formally discharged under Section 59 of the Criminal and Other Offenses (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30). The development follows her declaration of willingness to testify for the state in the ongoing trial. This information was contained in a notice filed at the High Court in Accra on Wednesday, October 15.


    Kwabena Adu-Boahene stands as the first accused, while his wife, and their company, Advantage Solutions Limited, are the second and fourth accused respectively.


    Adu Boahen was arrested in March this year at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) after allegedly trying to elude authorities using multiple passports.


    Attorney-General Dominic Ayine formally charged Mr Adu Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, with corruption offences to the tune of GH₵49 million on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.


    According to the writ filed at the High Court on Wednesday, April 30, Mr Adu-Boahene, who was responsible for overseeing critical national security infrastructure, including contracts with foreign companies, signed a deal with an Israeli company, ISC Holdings Limited, to purchase cyber defence software for $7 million.


    In total, Adu-Boahene is alleged to have transferred approximately GHS 49 million (around $7 million) from the NSB’s funds into his personal accounts, falsely justifying these transactions as payments for the cyber defence systems, together with his accomplice.


    “Further investigations have revealed that no cybersecurity system of the description in the January 30, 2020, contract was ever received by the Bureau of National Communication or by its successor agency, the National Signals Bureau, or by the Government of Ghana,” court documents indicated.


    Adu-Boahene’s wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, is one of three directors of Advantage Solutions Limited, the sole shareholder of BNC Communications Bureau Limited. Mildred Donkor is a former bank relationship officer for Adu-Buahene, his wife, and BNC Communications Bureau Limited.


    The AG, during a media address in March, detailed that on February 6, 2020, Adu Boahene authorized the transfer of GHC27.1 million from the National BNC’s account at Fidelity Bank to a private BNC account at UMB. The stated purpose of this transaction was to facilitate the acquisition of cyber defense system software from ISC Holdings in Israel for $7 million.


    Further scrutiny of the bank records showed that Mr. Adu Boahene instructed the private BNC to transfer GHC9,537,520, equivalent to $1,750,000 at the time, to ISC Holdings. However, the Attorney-General revealed that “Mr. Adu Boahene fraudulently attached a copy of the government of Ghana ISC contract as well as an invoice, which he held as an invoice issued by ISC Holdings.”


    In addition to the initial transaction, two further payments amounting to GHC21 million were transferred from the National BNC Director’s account at Fidelity Bank to the same private BNC account at UMB on March 18 and March 30, 2020. These payments were recorded as funding for the cyber defense system.


    However, upon closer examination, it was discovered that although a total of GHC49 million had been moved into the private BNC account—an amount equivalent to $7 million at the prevailing exchange rate—only a fraction of the money had been paid to ISC Holdings, raising concerns about the whereabouts of the remaining funds.
    Also, according to court documents, it’s alleged that Adu-Boahene, his wife, and Mildred “ran an elaborate criminal enterprise using A4 (Advantage Solutions Limited) as a holding company through which the stolen funds were funneled and laundered for their own benefit.”
    The documents added that as the holding company for several subsidiary companies, including the private BNC, A4 received a substantial portion of the stolen funds, which its shareholders and directors then invested in the business activities of the subsidiaries, including investments in treasury bills, real estate, the manufacturing of fertilizers, and the rental of luxury cars to VIP customers.
    In July the Former Director General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Mr Adu Boahene, along with three co-defendants including his wife made their formal court appearance in on the 18th day after the High Court in Accra, presided over by Justice John Nyante Nyadu, set July 18 as the date for the trial following a pre-trial hearing yesterday, July 3.
    The pre-trial was for the court to address a motion filed by the defendant’s legal team’s request to be granted access to national security accounts dating back to 1992. However, their request was dismissed over inadequate justification by the presiding judge.
    The Defense lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea during proceedings, raised concerns about missing evidence, specifically claiming that 83 pages of bank statements had not been disclosed to the defence.
    In response to Atta Akyea’s claims, Deputy Attorney-General, Justice Srem Sai, objected allegations that the Attorney-General’s office has lost evidence in the ongoing criminal case involving former National Signals Bureau (NSB) Director-General, Kwabena Adu-Boahene.
    These claims followed from the defence team representing Adu-Boahene and his co-accused at a case Management Conference held on Thursday, June 26 under the leadership of lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea, reiterated that the bank statements provided by the prosecution were incomplete, with essential pages allegedly missing.
    They suggested that these omissions might contain exculpatory evidence, and accused the Attorney-General’s office of “cherry-picking” documents to support its case while withholding material that could potentially clear the accused.
    Attorney-General’s office, in a statement shared on its official (X) on August 28, revealed that, his outfit is still in possession of the rightful evidence against the accused.
    Also, Justice Srem Sai continued that all the necessary documents needed to prove the charges levelled against all the accused have been filed. The said documents include contracts, bank records, property ownership documents, INTERPOL reports, and witness testimonies.
    “The Attorney-General’s office has not lost any evidence regarding the ongoing Republic v Adu-Boahene criminal trial.
    As of June 18, we had filed all the documents which we intend to rely on to prove the charges against the 4 Accused Persons in the case.
    The documents include contracts of sale, bank wire transfer records, bank account statements, company registration documents, property ownership records and purchase receipts, INTERPOL stolen vehicle records, investigative caution statements and charge statements of each Accused Person, records of asset non-declaration, a flow chart of money movements through a complex web of bank accounts, and testimonies of our 3 witnesses” he noted.
    According to him, Adu-Boahen’s legal team are in the wrong and illusory to believed government h as lost evidence in their against against their client. There is no cherry picking as all accused persons have been duly served.
    “Further, court-certified copies of each of these documents have been duly served on each of the Accused Persons. So, it is not even realistic that the documents could be lost to jeopardise the prosecution of the case”.
    On the current status of the case, the Deputy A-G revealed that before the court went on recess, three prosecution witnesses had already testified, proof that the case is still on track and not disrupted by a lack of evidence.
    ” …Before the start of the legal vacation on July 31, the first of our 3 prosecution witnesses had completed testifying and had been cross-examined by the lawyers of 3 of the 4 Accused Persons” adding that “The trial will resume in earnest in mid-October when the courts return from the legal vacation”.

  • Regional Airlines, including ASKY, Air Peace, set for relocation to T2 at KIA

    Regional Airlines, including ASKY, Air Peace, set for relocation to T2 at KIA

    The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has revealed plans to move all regional airlines from Terminal 3 (T3) to Terminal 2 (T2) at Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

    This decision aims to “decongest” Terminal 3 and bring new life to Terminal 2.

    The airlines affected by this move include Air Cote D’Ivoire, ASKY Airlines, Ibom Air, Air Peace, and Africa World Airlines (AWA), which currently operate regional routes.

    GACL has set December 1, 2024, as the target date for this relocation. However, the airlines raised concerns regarding the short timeline and questioned whether the facilities at Terminal 2 would meet the standards expected by passengers, who pay a substantial Airport Passenger Service Charge, similar to their counterparts on both African and non-African airlines.

    To illustrate, passengers flying round-trip from Accra to Lagos on airlines like AWA, ASKY, Air Cote D’Ivoire, or Air Peace are charged GHC 948 for the services and use of facilities at KIA under the Airport Passenger Service Charge.

    According to sources from AviationGhana.com, while discussions between the airlines and the GACL were productive, no final decision was reached. The airlines have requested a “detailed operational plan” for the relocation before committing to the move.

    Relocation to Save ‘Ghost’ Terminal

    Upon entering the departure hall of Terminal 2 at Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport, one is immediately struck by the vast, underutilized spaces, now reserved primarily for domestic flights.

    This terminal, once the hub for international travel until October 8, 2018, remains largely underused. Airport officials are hoping to maximize its potential through the gradual growth of domestic passenger traffic.

    In 2023, the two leading domestic carriers—Africa World Airlines and PassionAir—handled 17,786 passengers at Terminal 2 on routes to and from Kumasi, Tamale, Wa, Sunyani, and Takoradi.

    Background

    Domestic flight operations at Accra’s Kotoka International Airport (KIA) were officially relocated from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2, previously designated for international flights, on Monday, October 8, 2018.

    This change came after all international flights successfully transitioned from Terminal 2 to the newly built Terminal 3 at KIA.

    As a result, passengers flying between Accra and regional capitals with operational airports—such as Takoradi, Kumasi, Tamale, Sunyani, and Wa—were now required to complete their departure procedures and board at Terminal 2.

  • Vehicle burnt to ashes at KIA

    Vehicle burnt to ashes at KIA

    A private car was entirely consumed by flames at the visitors’ parking area of Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra on Monday, July 22, 2024.

    The cause of the fire remains unclear.

    According to 3news, the Ghana Fire Service arrived at the scene after the vehicle had been fully destroyed by the blaze.

    An eyewitness reported that the Fire Service personnel did not respond quickly to the incident.

  • Disruption in check-in systems at KIA due to ongoing excavation works – GACL

    Disruption in check-in systems at KIA due to ongoing excavation works – GACL

    The disruption in the check-in systems at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, was attributed by the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) to ongoing excavation works at the facility, not to power supply issues as previously speculated.

    According to airport management, the disruption affected Terminal 3’s check-in systems from approximately 7:51 PM for about an hour, causing delays in passenger processing and airline turnaround times.

    The root cause of the disruption was identified as a fibre optic system failure resulting from excavation works conducted by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) along the fibre path of Telecel Ghana Limited between Cantonments and Teshie Nungua. GACL clarified that contrary to rumors, the disruption was not caused by a power outage (dumsor).

    “The root cause of the disruption was identified as a fibre optic system failure due to ongoing excavation works by Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) along the fibre path of Telecel Ghana Limited between Cantonments and Teshie Nungua. Contrary to some speculations, the disruption was not related to a power outage (dumsor),” stated the management of the airport.

    Passengers were promptly informed of the situation, and regular updates were provided through intermittent announcements.

    Despite initial challenges, the situation was effectively managed using backup internet services, allowing airlines to eventually resume departures to their respective destinations.

    GACL expressed sincere apologies to affected passengers and assured them of its commitment to ensuring seamless facilitation across all GACL-operated airports.

    “Despite the initial challenge, the situation was efficiently managed using the backup internet service, allowing airlines to eventually depart for their respective destinations.

    “Management extends its sincere apologies to passengers who were affected by the downtime and wishes to assure them of its commitment to providing seamless facilitation through all GACL-operated airports,” the release concluded.

  • Some KIA staff are fond of begging for money – Ghanaian man laments

    Some KIA staff are fond of begging for money – Ghanaian man laments

    A Ghanaian man has raised concerns about the trend of some staff at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) soliciting money from passengers.

    This particular act by these individuals, he said, reflects poorly on the country as a whole and could potentially damage its reputation or pride.

    His remarks have sparked widespread discussions on social media, with many individuals recounting similar encounters.

    In a widely circulated video online, the man highlighted that this issue has been noticeable for some time and seems to be worsening.

    He recounted an incident involving a Nigerian traveler who complained about being approached for money while passing through Ghana.

    Initially defending his country, he later admitted that the problem is pervasive, extending from the airport gates to the boarding areas, where various personnel frequently request money from passengers.

    ‘There is this thing that I have observed for some time now. I used to think it was a thing happening in Nigeria but it looks like increasingly, Ghana is becoming even more notorious

    Last week I met a lady in Nigeria and she was complaining to me how she transited through Ghana and people were demanding money, I tried to defend us but you go see say the thing be true and you know, from gate to boarding, everybody asks for money

    It’s out of hand,” he said, adding that even a Canadian friend had similar complaints about immigration officers demanding money.

    The man further detailed a troubling incident involving a staff member at a boarding gate who subtly hinted at needing financial assistance.

    “She said, ‘Oh, I’m done oo. I’m looking at you.’ Doing stuff suggestively that you are looking for money or demanding for money. You guys are embarrassing Ghana,” he lamented.

    Watch video below:

  • ‘We’ll take the needed steps to investigate and address theft issues at KIA’ – GACL

    ‘We’ll take the needed steps to investigate and address theft issues at KIA’ – GACL

    Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has responded to recent concerns raised in an article regarding thefts from unattended luggage at Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

    The article depicted a scene where many frustrated individuals were at the KIA baggage complaints office, voicing their dissatisfaction over missing items from their luggage.

    In light of this, GACL management released a statement on Sunday, June 16, acknowledging the raised concerns and committing to immediate investigation and resolution.

    Moreover, they mentioned plans already underway to tighten access controls, particularly in areas like baggage holds, to prevent unauthorized entry by non-travelers and unauthorized personnel.

    The statement also emphasized that anyone found guilty of theft or other actions that compromise passenger experiences and damage GACL’s reputation will face severe legal repercussions.

    In conclusion, GACL management assured the public of their dedication to ensuring a safe and secure airport environment for all travelers.

    See statement below:

  • Popular American streamer Kai Cenat arrives in Ghana

    Popular American streamer Kai Cenat arrives in Ghana

    Renowned American online streamer and YouTube personality, Kai Cenat, has touched down in Ghana today, March 13, following a four-day sojourn in Nigeria.

    Upon his arrival at Kotoka International Airport, Cenat was greeted with vibrant traditional dancers performing the ‘Adowa’ dance, extending a warm Ghanaian welcome to the internet sensation.

    Leading the reception committee was Nadia Adongo Fynn, Deputy Director for Diaspora Affairs, along with local content creator Made in Ghana, and other dignitaries.

    While the purpose of Cenat’s visit remains undisclosed, it is anticipated that he will embark on a tour of the country, immersing himself in Ghana’s rich culture and exploring its remarkable landmarks.

    This visit aligns with the government’s Beyond The Return initiative, aimed at fostering connections and promoting Ghana as a prime destination for diaspora engagement.

  • Video: McBrown welcomes Afronitaa from UK

    Video: McBrown welcomes Afronitaa from UK

    Ghanaian actress and TV personality, Nana Ama McBrown, rolled out the red carpet at Kotoka International Airport to warmly welcome back the renowned Ghanaian dancer, Afronita.

    The heartwarming reunion, captured in a viral video, unfolded on February 22, 2024, as Afronita returned from her impactful audition on Britain’s Got Talent in Manchester, UK, alongside 2023 Talented Kids winner Abigail.

    Amidst cheers from family, Afronita received a bouquet of flowers from the celebrated actress, sparkling smiles, hugs, and a social media frenzy as their joyous reunion unfolded.

    Watch video below:

    https://www.facebook.com/reel/1253007228993452
  • Video: Politics has ruined the Ghana movie industry – Ramsey Nouah reveals

    Video: Politics has ruined the Ghana movie industry – Ramsey Nouah reveals

    Nollywood sensation Ramsey Nouah took the spotlight during his recent visit to Ghana, landing at the Kotoka International Airport and creating a buzz across social media.

    The renowned Nigerian actor was warmly welcomed by Kumawood star Kwadwo Nkansah, also known as LilWin, upon his arrival.

    Joining them was fellow Nigerian celebrity actor Victor Osuagwu, popularly known as Awilo Sharp Sharp.

    Nouah’s visit to Ghana is in connection with an upcoming movie project spearheaded by LilWin.

    During his stay, Nouah paid a courtesy visit to Despite Media’s general manager, where he had an engaging conversation with actor and production manager Roger Quartey, recognized for his roles in “Death after Birth” and “Darkness of Sorrow.”

    Surprised by the extended period since their last meeting, Ramsey Nouah couldn’t resist delving into the challenges faced by the Ghanaian movie industry in today’s African media landscape.

    Expressing concern, he questioned, “What happened to the movie industry? What happened? Well, I think it’s politics. When you guys allow politics into everything, it ruins everything, and then film is not meant to be political.”

    In response, Roger Quartey emphasized that “film is supposed to lighten the politics, to ease.”

    The insightful exchange shed light on the intricate relationship between politics and the cinematic arts, sparking conversations about the state of the Ghanaian film industry.

    Watch video below:

  • Akufo-Addo’s nephew, Asante Bediatuo and wife allegedly not paying taxes at KIA Terminal 3

    Akufo-Addo’s nephew, Asante Bediatuo and wife allegedly not paying taxes at KIA Terminal 3

    Accusations of tax evasion have emerged against Secretary to Akufo-Addo, Mr. Asante Bediatuo, and Nigerian wife, Sarah Mary Olufemi Adetola, according to Ghana Crimes.

    Ghana Crimes in a X post indicated that, the couple’s business, Le Concierge Club, located at the new Kotoka International Airport (KIA) Terminal 3 has been in operation for two years, during which it allegedly has not fulfilled its tax obligations for the same period.

    Nana Bediatuo Asante who is also the nephew of president Akufo-Addo has recently faced accusations of being involved in negotiations concerning the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR)-Torentco deal.

    Tax evasion is a serious offense that undermines the country’s revenue system and public services.



    The public awaits an official response from the concerned parties, as well as any actions that relevant authorities may take in light of these accusations.

    If proven true, these allegations could have legal implications for Mr. Bediatuo and his wife.



    In response to claims published in The Herald Newspaper, alleging that Torentco is his “baby” and that he is attempting to transfer TOR to another company without charge.



    The accusations suggested that Nana Bediatuo Asante engaged in extended negotiations regarding the TOR State Facilit

    However, in a prompt reply, Nana Bediatuo Asante’s legal representatives issued a strong rejoinder dated November 28, directed to Larry Dogbey, Managing Editor of The Herald Newspaper.



    In the rejoinder, Bediatuo’s lawyers asserted, “Our client does not have any dealings with the subject matter referred to supra, and the same cannot be said to be the baby of our client. Moreover, our client has not haggled with anyone for the said TOR Facility.”

  • Stonebwoy issues heartfelt apology to Chef Faila for missing world record cook-a-thon”

    Stonebwoy issues heartfelt apology to Chef Faila for missing world record cook-a-thon”

    Dancehall sensation Stonebwoy expressed sincere regrets to Chef Failatu Abdul Razak for his absence at her Guinness World Record cook-a-thon in Tamale.

    The unexpected apology took place at Kotoka International Airport, where the two unexpectedly crossed paths.

    Stonebwoy, en route to Côte d’Ivoire to support the Black Stars in the 2023 AFCON, encountered Chef Failatu returning to Tamale after an interview in Accra.

    Seizing the moment, Stonebwoy clarified that missing the event was entirely unintentional.

    “I just want to apologise to all Faila’s fans and my fans that I couldn’t make it to Tamale because of my schedule. See where I’m passing, the airport,” he stated, expressing his regret.

    In an interview on Accra based Joy Fm , Chef Faila expressed her disappointment with the lack of support from her favorite musicians Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, Samini and Sarkodie.

    “If it was something bad about the North, everyone would have been talking about it. Not a single big musician showed up for North on this project. Not Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, Samini, etc.

    “It was Kwabena Kwabena who passed through. There were a lot of expectations that we were going to see some of the artists we support so much from this angle show up and support us. Believe me, if I see Stonebwoy or Shatta Wale’s song, I can sing it to amaze you, but nobody showed up for us, and so they owe us an apology.”

    It is yet to be confirmed if the other A-list artists will follow in the footsteps of Stonebwoy.

  • GACL replaces faulty trolleys at KIA

    GACL replaces faulty trolleys at KIA

    The Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) has demonstrated its commitment to passenger safety and satisfaction by undertaking a timely initiative to replace defective trolleys at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

    This strategic move is especially crucial given the anticipated surge in travelers during the Christmas festivities.

    The decision to replace the faulty trolleys comes in response to concerns raised by passengers on Asempa FM’s Aburokyire Nkommo program about the subpar condition of the existing equipment.

    These concerns included issues such as broken handles, wobbly wheels, and non-functioning brakes, which had collectively reached a critical point of disrepair.

    Recognizing the urgency of the situation, passengers called on GACL to address these defects promptly to ensure the safety and convenience of all airport users.

    The defective trolleys had become a potential hazard, prompting the airport management to take swift action.

    Mama Joe, one of the passengers, shared a firsthand experience of the consequences of the malfunctioning trolleys, recounting an incident where her suitcase fell to the ground due to a trolley malfunction.

    Leveraging her experience working at Koln Airport in Germany, Mama Joe suggested the implementation of a payment system for trolley use, with the proceeds allocated for ongoing maintenance efforts.

    She stressed that the assurance of user safety hinges on the consistent operational integrity of the trolleys.

    In addition to the immediate replacement efforts, passengers put forth the recommendation of establishing a systematic and regular maintenance schedule.

    This collaborative proposal aims to ensure that airport trolleys remain in optimal working condition over time.

    By addressing these concerns collectively, the airport management and passengers seek to enhance the overall airport experience for travelers, not only during the festive season but also in the long run.

  • GACL, GAF to jointly execute a comprehensive emergency simulation exercise on October 12

    GACL, GAF to jointly execute a comprehensive emergency simulation exercise on October 12

    Kotoka International Airport is set to conduct a comprehensive emergency simulation exercise on Thursday, October 12, 2023, from 0800 to 1200 noon.

    This exercise, named “Operation Ogboole 2023,” will simulate a Mass Casualty Evacuation scenario, specifically involving an airplane crash into the sea near the Osu landing beach. The operation is a collaborative effort between the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL).

    The primary objectives of this exercise include testing the Draft Harmonised Standard Operating Procedures (HSOP) for Maritime Incidents Response at Maritime Operations Centres and assessing the Emergency Operating Procedures at Kotoka International Airport.

    Beyond these objectives, it aims to enhance the capabilities of maritime stakeholders in responding to maritime incidents, fostering greater interoperability, and promoting inter-agency collaboration among various state institutions.

    In anticipation of the exercise, the GACL has assured the general public that airport operations will experience minimal disruptions during this period.

    They have kindly requested the cooperation of the public to ensure the smooth and successful execution of this important simulation.

  • We all go jakpa!: Ghanaians react to large numbers at KIA departure hall

    We all go jakpa!: Ghanaians react to large numbers at KIA departure hall

    Over the past few months, the departure area of Kotoka International Airport has consistently seen crowds of passengers and their companions as many Ghanaians opt to leave the country.

    On social media, stories abound of friends and neighbors reaching out only after they’ve already arrived in their new countries of residence. While a significant portion of these Ghanaians are pursuing further education abroad, the prevailing state of affairs in the country is frequently cited as the primary motivation for their departure.

    The escalating rate of this phenomenon, commonly referred to as “jakpa,” is causing widespread concern, especially given that a significant portion of these emigrants are young people. While Ghanaians seeking better opportunities in Europe and other nations is not a new trend, the current surge underscores the profound economic challenges facing the country.

    Many Ghanaians are expressing their frustration as the cost of living, essential goods, healthcare, and access to quality infrastructure, such as road networks, have all become prohibitively expensive and increasingly out of reach for the average citizen. In the past year alone, inflation has soared to over 200%, while the stability of the country’s currency against foreign currencies remains precarious.

    Youth in particular are increasingly viewing emigration as the only viable path to secure a better future for themselves and their families, as the government appears to be slow in implementing immediate measures to address the nation’s pressing issues.

    Recent videos from Kotoka International Airport depict a steady stream of individuals leaving the country, sparking a wave of concern and discussion among Ghanaians about the frequency and implications of this mass exodus.

    https://twitter.com/MaameAmaAdoma/status/1699548314599845909?s=20
  • Mr. Logic calls for legal action against Black Sherif

    Mr. Logic calls for legal action against Black Sherif

    Controversial entertainment pundit, Mr. Logic, has demanded that Cruise People Limited ensures that fast-rising singer Black Sherif faces legal consequences as a deterrent for other artists.

    On July 19, 2023, Black Sherif was arrested by the Ghana Police Service at Kotoka International Airport for breaching a contract regarding a July 4 show in Greece, which he failed to attend.

    Reportedly, Black Sherif was scheduled to perform on a cruise ship in Greece and charged US$40,000 for the performance. He received half of the payment but did not fulfill his part of the contract.

    Mr. Logic believes that such unprofessional behavior hampers the growth of the creative arts industry.

    To foster a serious and thriving creative space, he emphasizes the need for accountability and responsibility among artists.

    He calls for Black Sherif’s prosecution to set an example and caution other artists against similar actions.

    Speaking on the United Showbiz show, Mr. Logic stated that artists should learn from this situation and face the consequences in court, stressing the importance of using the law to create a more professional environment within the industry.

    “Artists should take a cue from this challenge, we are in a professional space and the law should take effect. let them go defend themselves in court so lessons can be learned”, he said while speaking on the United Showbiz show.

    He added, “We are not making use of the court, and we take certain things likely in the creative space, the industry is known for unseriousness, and its high time the narrative change should we want a better professional environment”.

  • Nigerian man sentenced 10 years for cocaine trafficking

    Nigerian man sentenced 10 years for cocaine trafficking

    A Nigerian residing in Brazil, Ernest Nnajuiba Ukechukwu, has received a ten-year prison sentence from an Accra High Court on July 13, 2023, for attempting to smuggle 16,568.83 grams of cocaine into Ghana.

    The court sentenced him to a minimum of 10 years in hard labor and imposed a fine of ten thousand penalty units, with an additional three (3) years to be served in default. The sentences will run concurrently.

    NACOC officials arrested him at Kotoka International Airport’s arrival hall on December 11, 2022, during arrival formalities. His contradictory statements raised suspicion, leading to further luggage checks that exposed the concealed drugs.

    Mr. Ukechukwu faced six (6) counts of narcotic offenses related to the unauthorized importation and possession of narcotic drugs. He pleaded guilty to all charges before the Criminal Court Division of the Accra High Court, resulting in his conviction by Her Lordship Mary Ekue Yanzuh.

    The Court ordered the exhibit’s destruction, which was promptly carried out by NACOC investigators in the presence of the court Registrar, State prosecutors, and the defense counsel.

    NACOC emphasized its commitment to protect the public from illegal narcotics trade and usage, stating that possession, use, and transportation of illicit drugs without lawful authorization remain illegal and punishable under the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020 (Act 1019).

    “The Commission reiterates its commitment to upholding its mandate to protect the public from the trade and usage of illegal narcotics to maintain public safety, hence the facilitation of the sentencing. The possession, use and transportation of illicit drugs without lawful authorization are still illegal and punishable under sections 40 (1) and 41 (1) of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020, (Act 1019),” NACOC said in a statement.

  • Watch Video of Black Sherif’s ”arrest” at KIA

    Watch Video of Black Sherif’s ”arrest” at KIA

    On the evening of July 19, 2023, renowned musician Black Sherif encountered an interruption at Kotoka International Airport (KIA). Upon his arrival in the country, he was detained due to his name being placed on a ‘STOP LIST.’

    According to a report from Kofi TV, the action was taken in connection to a contract that Black Sherif had allegedly failed to fulfill, leading to a formal complaint against him. Kofi Adomah, the host of Kofi TV channel on YouTube, disclosed this information.

    As news of the supposed ‘arrest’ spread on social media, speculations surged, as no visual evidence was available. However, blogger Nkonkonsa has since shared what seems to be the first images of Black Sherif being escorted out of the airport. The video, posted on Twitter, depicts the artist being led into a vehicle by two individuals, one in police uniform and the other in civilian attire.

    The Kofi TV report further revealed that after leaving the airport, Black Sherif was taken to the police headquarters in Accra for further processing.

    The contractual dispute that led to this situation revolves around a scheduled show on July 4, which the musician allegedly failed to fulfill in Greece. It is reported that he was supposed to perform on a cruise ship and had charged US$40,000 for the engagement, receiving half of the payment in advance.

  • Ghana would charge each traveller $7 to fumigate their bags at KIA

    Ghana would charge each traveller $7 to fumigate their bags at KIA

    The Ghana Health Service is putting pressure on airlines to charge an additional US$7 per passenger for each foreign flight purchased and send that money to the government organization as a fee for luggage fumigation.

    AviationGhana sources revealed that the decision of the GHS was conveyed by the Ghana Airports Company Limited to airlines servicing Accra’s Kotoka International Airport at a meeting held on Thursday, June 22, 2023, in Accra.

    Airlines, who are still recovering from the impact of the covid-19 pandemic, opposed the decision of the GHS and further pointed to the lack of local law for the planned charge.

    If implemented, the imposition of the US$7 fumigation charge will lead to further increases in airfares, which already remain elevated due to high aviation fuel costs, a weak local currency, and a general economic squeeze since last year.

    The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic cost the industry some US$180 billion over a three-year period. However, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts that the rebound will lead to a US$2.25 revenue per passenger this year. This is a significant improvement from the -1.1 dollars per passenger loss recorded last year.

    In Ghana, most international airlines began re-opening routes they suspended last year and are yet to reach the performance heights recorded in 2019.

  • NACOC seizes $127K cannabis at KIA

    NACOC seizes $127K cannabis at KIA

    The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), has seized $127K cannabis at the Kotoka International Airport cargo terminal.

    The cannabis weighing about 12.67KG was intercepted on Wednesday, May 23.

    The consignment was bound for the United Kingdom when the Commission detected it in KIA’s scanning room during routine duties.

    In a statement signed by NACOC’s Public Affairs and International Relations Department, it indicated that “a field test conducted on the substances proved positive for cannabis.”

    The Commission says it has taken custody of the seized consignment, adding that investigations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.

    “The Commission would like to use this medium to remind the general public that the possession and transportation of illicit drugs without lawful authorization is illegal and punishable under sections 40 (1) and 41 (1) of Act 1019 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020. “

    NACOC assured the general public that it is committed to collaborating with all relevant institutions in minimising the drug trafficking threat to the country.

    <iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/KeUqYCFECO8″ title=”YouTube video player” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share” allowfullscreen></iframe>

  • 90 Ghanaians return home after Dubai deportation

    90 Ghanaians return home after Dubai deportation

    About ninety (90) Ghanaians who were deported from Dubai have arrived in Ghana.

    The deportees were flown in two batches by Emirates and Ethiopian Airlines and proceeded through the Ghana Immigration Service’s requisite procedures at Kotoka International Airport before being handed over to the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) for further action.

    MyNewsGh.com confirmed that most of them through fake recruitment agents travelled to Dubai illegally while others had overstayed their visas.

    It is gathered that over 431 such persons are currently in Dubai with a number of them said to be in detention after being promised lucrative jobs by agents who smuggled them into the country only to be faced with a different reality.

    Sources at the Ghana Immigration Service revealed to this portal that more deportees are expected in the coming days as the number that has so far arrived in the country is just a fraction of those expected.

    It would be recalled that late last year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration (MFARI) said efforts were underway to evacuate some 431 Ghanaians who had been detained in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

    Comprising 341 males, 88 females and two children below the age of three, they were lured there by some agents who promised them jobs in Dubai and other cities in the UAE.

    They have been detained at Al Tawadi Medical Centre and the Immigration Centre in Dubai, alongside an unspecified number of African migrants who have suffered the same fate.

    A statement issued by the MFARI said the government was collaborating with the authorities of the UAE to bring the stranded nationals back home safely.

  • The stage mounted for US Vice President looks like ‘Susubribi village square’ – A Plus

    The stage mounted for US Vice President looks like ‘Susubribi village square’ – A Plus

    Musician, satirist and social commentator, Kwame Asare Obeng, known in the showbiz circle as Kwame A Plus has expressed disappointment in the kind of stage provided for Kamala Harris upon her arrival at the Kotoka International Airport, on Sunday, 26 March 2023.

    The United States of America’s Vice President is in Ghana for a three-day state visit, a trip that is also meant to strengthen US partnerships throughout Africa.

    The first female vice president of the world’s largest economy was received at the Kotoka International Airport by Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

    She was in the company of her husband, Douglas Emhoff, alongside some top US officials.

    Aside from the historic visit, one thing that has engendered conversation, especially on social media is the stage on which she stood and delivered a speech.

    Designed with kente with both the Ghana and US flags hoisted, the criticism has been that it could have been better as some argued that the stage was too ordinary.

    A Plus in an Instagram post sighted by GhanaWeb, like some Ghanaians, was unimpressed as he made some comparisons while describing the stage as ‘susubribi village square’.

    He wrote: “You watch the Champions League final or the World Cup in Qatar, and within a matter of minutes, a beautiful podium is built for presentation. You watch the Super Bowl halftime show, and within the twinkle of an eye, the whole playing field is turned into a gorgeous stage for a musical concert. Here in Umofia, this is what Atta ne Atta were able to build in 73 hours; the most annoying part is that this caricature will be more expensive than any of the aforementioned.

    “Dear International Monetary Fund, before you give them the loan, ask them how much was spent to build this Susubribi village square, and you’ll know what your money will be used for.”

  • FULL TEXT: Kamala Harris’ message to Ghanaians

    FULL TEXT: Kamala Harris’ message to Ghanaians

    US Vice President Kamala Harris‘ speech upon her arrival at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) on Sunday, March 26, 2023:

    On behalf of the president and our entire nation, we bring you greetings and we are looking forward to this trip and the very important relationship and friendship between the people of the United States and those who live on the continent of Africa.

    I’m very excited about the future of Africa. I’m very excited about the impact of the future of Africa on the rest of the world, including the United States of America. When I look at what is happening on this continent and the fact that the median age is 19 years old and what that tells us about the growth of opportunity, of innovation, of possibilities, I see in all of that great opportunity, not only for the people of this continent but the people of the world.

    Especially when we understand that by the year 2050, we believe one in four people on earth will be on the continent of Africa. The partnership between this continent, its people and the people of the United States and reinforces the work that we will continue to do together. Be that on addressing the climate crisis, to supply chains to our work together on international rules and norms.

    In particular, on this trip, I intend to do work that is focused on increasing investments here on the continent and facilitating economic growth and opportunity specifically in the areas of economic empowerment of women and girls. Empowerment of youth. Entrepreneurship, digital inclusion, and supporting the work that must be done to increase food security, including adaptation to the effects of the climate crisis.

    I look forward to my meetings with President Nana Akufo-Addo, President Suluhu Samiya and President Hichilema. We will build on the previous meetings I have had with each of them to strengthen democracy and good governance, promote peace and security, build on long-term economic growth, and strengthen our business ties.

    I also look forward during this visit to meeting with entrepreneurs and artists and students and farmers to witness firsthand the extraordinary innovation and creativity that is occurring on this continent and inspiring the world. We have a lot of work ahead of us. And again, I’m so very excited to be here and I thank you all for the very warm welcome.

    Thank you.

  • Kamala Harris pledges to strengthen economic relations between US and Africa

    Kamala Harris pledges to strengthen economic relations between US and Africa

    The second-largest producer of cocoa in the world, Ghana, as well as other African nations, will benefit economically from stronger links between the United States of America and those countries, according to US Vice President Kamala Harris.

    Her visit to Ghana, since becoming the Vice President of US, comes at a time when Ghana is facing an economic crisis.

    Ghana secured a Staff-Level Agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a $3 billion Extended Credit Facility to support the country’s economic recovery and put it on a sustainable path of growth.

    Kamala, who was welcomed by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President of Ghana, amid traditional drumming and dancing and cheers from some schoolchildren on Sunday, said, her visit was to promote economic growth and food security in Ghana and other African countries.

    “On this trip, I intend to do work that’s focused on increasing investment here on the continent and facilitating economic growth and opportunity, specifically in the areas of economic empowerment of women and girls, empowerment of youth entrepreneurship, digital inclusion and support the work that must be done to increase food security,” Harris said in a short speech after her arrival at the Jubilee Lounge, Kotoka International Airport.

    She said she would build on previous meetings with President Akufo-Addo, to deepen democracy and good governance, promote peace and security, build long-term economic growth, and strengthen business ties.

    She said, “I also look forward to, during this visit, meet with entrepreneurs, students and farmers to witness, first-hand, the extraordinary innovation and creativity that’s occurring on this continent and inspiring the world.”

    She said the US saw the visit to Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia as a further statement of the long and enduring important relationship and friendship between her country and Africa.

    “We (Ghana) see the visit of Kamala Harris as a very important one obviously because of the times in which we are, where the world is facing a lot of economic challenges,” Mr Jefferson Sackey, Deputy Director of Communication at the Presidency said in an interview with the media.

    “She’ll be visiting Ghana, Tanzania and Zambia, and the key focus of this particular visit is to find ways and means of helping each of these countries and find ways of addressing a lot of our economic woes,” Mr Sackey added.

    As part of her three-day visit to Ghana, Kamala would hold talks with President Akufo-Addo, and meet with female entrepreneurs as her country seeks partnerships and investments in entrepreneurship.

    After spending three days in Ghana, she would go to Tanzania for two days, before stopping over for a night in Zambia, as her country deepens its relationship with Africa. The highlight of her trip to Ghana, will be the delivering of a speech at the Black Star Square on Tuesday, March 28.

    Harris would also visit a recording studio, and visit the Cape Coast Castle, Central Region, where enslaved Africans were once loaded onto ships for America.

  • Kamala Harris says she’s in Ghana to promote opportunities for economic growth

    Kamala Harris says she’s in Ghana to promote opportunities for economic growth

    Harris anticipates meeting farmers, women, students, and businesspeople while in Ghana. The Cape Coast Castle will also be on her itinerary.

    After arriving in Ghana on Sunday (26 March) to start her three-nation tour of the continent, Vice President of the United States of America Kamala Harris stated that her mission in the continent is to promote economic growth and opportunities.

    The 49th vice president of the United States will visit Ghana, where he will meet with farmers, businesspeople, students, and women. In the Central Region, slaves were housed at the Cape Coast Castle, which will also be visited by the visitor.

    “In particular on this trip, I intend to do work that will focus on increasing investment here on the continent, and facilitating economic growth and opportunity, specifically in the areas of economic empowerment of women and girls, empowerment of youth entrepreneurship, digital inclusion and to support the work that must be done to increase food security, including adaptation to the effect of economic crisis,” Harris said at the Kotoka International Airport.

    She was welcomed at the airport by Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, who led the government delegation including foreign minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey.

    Also at the airport to welcome Harris and her husband Douglas Emhoff was the US ambassador to Ghana Virginia Palmer and a host of school children carrying miniature flags of Ghana.

    She said her visit is to strengthen the economic relations between the US and Ghana.

    “We are looking forward to this trip as a further statement of the long and enduring and very important relationship and friendship between the people of the United States and those who live on the continent of Africa,” Harris said.

    “I am very excited about the future of Africa. I am very excited about the impact of the future of Africa on the rest of the world including the United States of America. When I look at what is happening on this continent and the fact that the median age is 19 years old, and what that tells us about the growth of opportunities, of innovations, of possibilities, I see in all of that great opportunities and not only for the people of this continent but the people of the world,” she added.

    She said: “I am here to address some of the issues that relate to the partnership between this continent, its people and the people of the United States and to reinforce the work that we will continue to do together be that on addressing the climate crisis, to supply chain, to our work together on international rules and nuance.

    Harris is scheduled to leave Ghana on March 29 to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania before ending the tour in Lusaka, Zambia on 2 April.

  • Ghana Immigration Service withdraws filling of embarkation and disembarkation

    Ghana Immigration Service withdraws filling of embarkation and disembarkation

    Travellers using the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) are no longer required to fill embarkation and disembarkation cards, according to the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).

    This is because the KIA has cancelled the filling of the embarkation and disembarkation cards.

    A statement issued by the KIA and signed by its Director-General, Charles Kraikue, said: “In line with Government’s digitalisation agenda, the GIS will no longer accept embarkation and disembarkation cards completed by travelers at the immigration processing booths as part of entry-exit formalities.”

    But “a traveler will instead be required to provide key information (listed in the Public Notice) on presentation at the immigration processing booth.”

    The GIS since Tuesday, 21 March 2023, commenced a 10-day pilot of the newly-introduced measure.

    The rollout will, however, begin on Friday, 31 March 2023.

  • Ghana spent GHC128,366 on Christmas decorations at Kotoka

    Ghana spent GHC128,366 on Christmas decorations at Kotoka

    The Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) spent GH¢ 128,366 on decorations at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) over the course of the 2021 holiday season, according to confirmation from Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, the Minister of Transportation.

    Appearing before parliament on Thursday, February 23, 2023, the minister also confirmed that the decoration including some Christmas trees and chandeliers were rented and not bought as earlier speculated.

    “The Christmas decoration at the Kotoka International Airport for 2021 was rented from a company and the total cost of the decoration was GH¢128,366, out of which GH¢50,000 was paid by DDP in terms of sponsorship,” the minister informed the House in response to some questions filed by some members.

    In 2022, there was massive public furore in reaction to reports that GACL had spent a colossal amount on Christmas decorations.

    The Ministry of Transport in response to a Right To Information Request in June 2022, confirmed the procurement of the decorations adding that the transaction did not go through required procurement process due to its nature.

    “Please be informed that the Christmas decorations for 2021 were rented and not procured for by the GACL. Hence, there was no procurement nor bidding process for the award of contract,” the ministry said.

    Some critics of the transaction had raised concerns of procurement breaches about the entire process and indicted the Board Chairman of GACL, Paul Adom-Otchere who was cited for contracting the suppliers.

    But the board chairman in his own defence maintained that the transaction did not fall within the ambits of the procurement law.

    “There is no procurement breach. There can be no procurement breaches; in fact, no procurement breaches have been found. They hit a cul-de-sac,” he stated in reaction to some media publications.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Saddick Adams recounts last moments with Atsu at Kotoka International Airport

    Saddick Adams recounts last moments with Atsu at Kotoka International Airport

    Saddick Adams, a Ghanaian sports journalist, has spoken about his last encounter with late former Chelsea and Newcastle United winger Christian Atsu.

    Christian Atsu was found dead on the morning of Saturday, February 18, 2022, at the site of his collapsed apartment after being trapped under the rubble for 12 days following the earthquake that hit parts of Turkey and Syria.

    The demise of the player has led to many people revealing the good deeds of the player.

    Popularly known as Sports Obama, the 2022 SWAG Journalist of the Year explained that the reason they didn’t publicise most of Christian Atsu’s charity works frequently was because the player told them not to make them public.

    “People are asking why we didn’t talk about his charity works when he was alive. We would have loved to talk about it but when you do, he will text you and say, Alhaji me I don’t like that ohh. Lets keep it private.”

    “What people are saying about him is nothing but the truth; he just wanted them to be private.” The last time he left Ghana, I saw him briefly a day before at the airport, and I was supposed to see him the day he was leaving on the 22nd of July 2022, but I forgot I had a meeting with him,” Saddick Adams said.

    Christian Atsu also played in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil and four other African Cup of Nations tournaments. From 2012 to 2019, he made 65 appearances and scored nine goals for the Black Stars.

  • FLASHBACK: Five things Akufo-Addo must do for aviation sector

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was tasked by the aviation sector to see that a number of reforms are implemented.

    The industry made the following demands:

    CAA & Airports Company is in trouble.

    Ghana Airways New

    The Kotoka Airport’s US$150 COVID-19 test fee is being reviewed.

    Investing in the AIB

    completion of ongoing projects at airports

    Having been declared victorious in the December 7 presidential elections by the Electoral Commission chair, Jean Mensa, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, working through his appointees, must now tackle key issues in the aviation sector if the full benefits of air transport are to be realized in the next four years.

    Undoubtedly, the re-setting up of the Ministry of Aviation which had been treated as an appendage of the Ministry of Transport as a stand-alone ministry has served the industry well. That decision and the ensuring appropriate budget allocation to the Ministry, has led to the mainstreaming of the sector.

    In 2018, the aviation sector contributed US$ 2.5 billion to the country’s GDP. That notwithstanding, the following are the key issues that beg the attention of the President-elect:

    Struggling CAA & Airports Company

    The current pandemic has revealed in all it starkness the lack of financial buffer for the Ghana Airports Company Limited. The state-owned limited liability company has had to turn to central government for financial assistance to be able to pay salaries due to the massive drop in its aeronautical revenue—Airport Passenger Service Tax, aircraft parking fees etc.

    The COVID-19 induced closure of the Kotoka International Airport for scheduled flights from March to September led to a drop of about 80 percent of GACL’s revenue within the period. Since the re-opening of the airport for international flights on September 1, airlines servicing the KIA have recorded low passenger throughput, with load factor ranging between 50-70 percent. Daily pre-COVID-19 frequencies have now been reduced mostly from 7x per week to 4x per week. It is now clear that the GACL must be assisted to scale up non-aeronautical revenue while the state may possibly look at increasing its working capital.

    The aviation sector regulator, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), has also seen its major income source severely impacted by the pandemic. It has also received assistance from central government to help with its overheads. However, the financial challenge it faces now needs to be addressed.

    New ‘Ghana Airways

    It has been the aspiration of successive governments to re-establish a home-based carrier that would once again fly the Ghanaian flag and give impetus to the aviation hub dream. Initial attempts at partnering some major international airlines did not work out. Currently, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with EgyptAir to work with the Cairo-based airline in establishing the new airline. The immediate task at hand is to finalise the various shareholders agreements, approval by Cabinet and submission of the agreement to Parliament for scrutiny and approval before the 7th Parliament of the 4th Republic is dissolved in days.

    Review of US$150 COVID-19 test charge at Kotoka Airport

    Though the antigen test currently carried out on in-bound passengers has helped to contain the spread of the coronavirus in the country, it has greatly increased the cost of travel. As we approach the festive season, a lot more Ghanaians living abroad are expected to return home for Christmas. Though the GACL recently waived the cost for children aged 5-12years, there have still been calls for a reduction in the cost. Indeed, organisations such as the Consumer Protection Agency, Ghana Tourism Federation have made several calls for a review to no avail.

    A review of the relatively expensive cost of the test should merit attention.

    Resourcing the AIB

    The work of the Accident Investigation Bureau will be imperative in reducing the annual accident costs attributed to general aviation in Ghana and the West Africa sub-region.

    In recent times there have been major initiatives, such as infrastructural projects and systems enhancements, which combined with this legislation are gradually positioning the country at the heart of civil aviation in the sub-region.

    The setting up of the bureau is also in readiness for Ghana’s upcoming International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) audit in 2021. However, the AIB must be well-resourced to efficiently carry out its mandate.

    Completion of on-going airport projects

    Completion of the Kumasi, Sunyani, Tamale and Cape Coast airports would be keenly awaited by residents, traders and hospitality industry players. Though works on Kumasi and Sunyani airports are nearing completion, it must be completed on time to open up these two main mid-Ghana cities. Tamale and Cape Coast airports should not escape attention.

  • Anas ‘steals’ Ghanaian YouTuber’s content?

    Anas Aremeyaw Anas, an investigative journalist, is set to premiere his latest undercover investigative piece on how illegal small-scale mining, galamsey, is destroying the environment in Ghana.

    Dubbed ‘Galamsey Economy,’ the undercover investigation according to a flyer released by the journalist indicates that it is a collaboration between Anas’ Tiger Eye PI and some Civil Society Organisations [CSOs].

    On Thursday, November 11, 2022, the journalist released a teaser of what Ghanaians should expect in his latest exposé.

    The video starts with some people in an aircraft implying that they are flying to Kotoka International Airport [KIA].

    There are scenes from KIA, Jubilee House, some galamsey sites and interaction between Anas Aremeyaw Anas and Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Angela Palmer-Buckle, Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Coast.

    “It is an eyesore…the dark secrets…not everything you see will happen” – these are some of the inscriptions in the one minute thirty-three seconds video posted on his social media handle.

    Hours after the video was posted, popular Ghanaian YouTuber Wode Maya shared Anas’ video with some screenshot of a galamsey site and wrote:

    “Big man Anas! Is that my shot??? Did this amateur galamsay content 5 years ago!”

    When his followers replied and asked him to take action, Wode Maya in another post wrote after deleting the earlier post:

    “My YouTube channel videos are licensed under ‘common creatives’ which gives everyone access to use my content without a strike! The goal is the message to spread Not To Make Money!

    “Btw my first copyright Strike on my YouTube channel was from a Ghanaian brother.”

    Anas’ ‘Galamsey Economy’ investigative piece will be premièred on November 14 and 15 at 8pm each day.

  • Ghanaian jailed 10 years in Dubai for trafficking weed

    A 40-year-old Ghanaian man, Joshua Opoku has been jailed in Dubai for trafficking a narcotic substance believed to be cannabis also known as weed.

    Mr. Opoku was said to have been arrested at an airport in Dubai after the Gulf country’s officials found the substance on him.

    According to the brother of the convict, Yaw Amponsah, his brother did not know there was such a substance on him.

    He claimed that the substance was implanted on him unknowingly and Ghanaian Custom Officers at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) allowed him to pass after taking One Hundred dollars from him.

    Narrating how Opoku was arrested, Mr. Amponsah told crimecheckghana.org that his brother was introduced to a Dubai-based Ghanaian known as Prince by a friend.

    This he said was after his brother was promised a job in the Gulf State.

    He continued that his brother did not know Prince but were only in touch via phone.

    Mr. Amponsah indicated that Prince asked Opoku to bring along with him some local food items, which he obliged.

    The distraught man said when it was due for Opoku to go aboard the Dubai-bound airplane, Prince requested him to receive one last item from his brother for him.

    That particular item, according to Mr. Amponsah was already in a wrapped container and when Opoku wanted to know its content, Prince told him it was hair food.

    Mr. Amponsah said security officers at the Dubai airport arrested him when they found out that the content of the container was weed.

    “Opoku had visited South Africa and wanted to go to Dubai for greener pastures. Opoku should have been arrested in Ghana but Customs officers at the KIA took $100 from him. So I think the officers saw the substance on him but they allowed him to pass,” Mr. Amponsah alleged.

    Mr. Amponsah furthered that when Opoku was arrested, he mentioned that Prince asked him to bring him the substance.

    He said the Dubai authorities did not go after Prince but went ahead to imprison his brother for ten years.

    “When we managed to contact Prince, he denied knowledge of the substance. The Dubai authorities did not go after him which is why they have jailed my brother. Opoku is an innocent man and he would never perpetrate such a crime,” he said.

    Mr. Amponsah appealed to Ghanaian authorities to help serve his brother justice and enable him get his freedom.

    Source: Crimecheck

     

  • Beverly Afaglo flaunts GHC16k designer bag in US; celebs send greetings to hubby

    Ghanaian actress, Beverly Afaglo has joined the list of female celebrities who are currently on vacation ahead of the Christmas festivities.

    The mother-of-two updated her Instagram page with photos of herself at the Kotoka International Airport in a three-piece purple fashion outfit. She wore a fashionable watch and gold jewelry.

    In another post, the wife of Ghanaian musician, Choirmaster, looked stylish in expensive designer brands.

    Beverly wore a white fur coat over a black stylish top and black jeans. The award-winning actress wore white classy sneakers as she stepped out.

    She styled her looks with a Chanel scarf and Burberry side handbag similar to what Nadia Buari and Tracey Boakye shared on their Instagram page.

    With her immaculate cosmetics and hairdo, Beverly smiled for the picture repeating her earrings.

    Many Ghanaian celebrities have commented under their post;

    real_vimlady

    Wifey is in town yieeeeeeeeeee. Greetings to hubby wai

    ohemaawoyeje

    Class … baby number 3 alert

    piesieesther

    Looking gorgeous my lady

    gloriaosarfo

    Ahaaa asu Life owner!!! Give us❤

    iamtimakumkum

    My boo❤️

    belindadzattah

    Welcome ❤️❤️

    mubarakamidkobo

    @beverly_afaglo those smiles are priceless and May they never fade away

    grace_y_b

    thanks God you landed safely and happy my queen

    chichineblett

    Woooow hi to my inlaw ooo

    In August 2021, Beverly Afaglo’s Tema residence was burnt down to ashes. Some celebrities contributed clothes and other items to the style influencer and her family.

    Source:yen.com

  • How Ghana spent £3 million in 1959 on a new airport runaway for Queen Elizabeth’s arrival

    The newly independent Ghana was especially eager to prepare for the expected coming of Queen Elizabeth II because it had only achieved independence a little over two years earlier.

    As if to demonstrate the bold claim made by the nation’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, that “the African is capable of managing his own affairs,” preparations for the queen’s arrival in Ghana began in earnest in November 1959.

    And when Nkrumah’s government realized that she would enter the nation through its primary airport, it immediately set aside some money to clean the runway at the Accra Airport (now Kotoka International Airport).

    This was contained in an old Ghana Times newspaper clipping in GhanaWeb’s possession, with the headline, “Queen’s aircraft may land on new runway.”

    The April 1959 story, written by de-Graft Sampson, stated that the government was bent on ensuring that the runway at the airport was in good shape to receive the monarch of the country that had, until two years before, been its colonial master.

    “The Ghana National Construction Company are to undertake one of the biggest projects under the second Five-Year-Development Plan, with the reconstruction of Accra International Airport, expected to take about 15 months to complete.

    “The extension work for which Government has made available the sum of £G3 million, will be carried out in two stages, Mr. M. Boren, the G.N.C.C. sole consultant engineers and contractors told me,” the report stated.

    The report explained further that the first stage of the expansion project would involve the upgrade to the runway at the airport.

    And this was to be done before Queen Elizabeth II’s visit later that year.

    “Mr. Boren further told me that the construction of the new runway, taxiways and the approach roads are expected to be completed before the Queen’s visit in November this year,” it added.

    The report added that the second phase of the project was to look at the extension of air travel facilities to some other regions in the country so that they could benefit “directly from Ghana’s internal air service.”

    Read the full newspaper report in the photo clipping below:

    See the video of Queen Elizabeth II’s historic visit to Ghana in 1961:

    Credit: British Pathé

  • Air travel to recover fully in 2024 – Transport Minister

    By 2024, the Kotoka International Airport’s passenger volume should have fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic’s effects.

    Ghana’s transport minister, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, said in his speech at the 41st ICAO triennial meeting in Canada that “passenger traffic is picking up after the disastrous impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the aviation industry.”

    Ghana is now functioning at about 70% of its capacity, and its transport minister, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, stated that the country hopes to attain full capacity by 2024.

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced passenger data for August 2022 showing continued momentum in the air travel recovery.

    Total traffic in August 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) was up 67.7% compared to August 2021. Globally, traffic is now at 73.7% of pre-crisis levels.

    Domestic traffic for August 2022 was up 26.5% compared to the year-ago period. Total August 2022 domestic traffic was at 85.4% of the August 2019 level.

    International traffic rose 115.6% versus August 2021 with airlines in Asia delivering the strongest year-over-year growth rates. August 2022 international RPKs reached 67.4% of August 2019 levels.

    “The Northern Hemisphere peak summer travel season finished on a high note. Considering the prevailing economic uncertainties, travel demand is progressing well. And the removal or easing of travel restrictions at some key Asian destinations, including Japan, will certainly accelerate the recovery in Asia. The mainland of China is the last major market retaining severe COVID-19 entry restrictions,” Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General said.

    African airlines experienced a 69.5% rise in August RPKs versus a year ago.

    August 2022 capacity was up 45.3% and load factor climbed 10.8 percentage points to 75.9%, the lowest among regions.

    International traffic between Africa and neighbouring regions is close to pre-pandemic levels.

  • GACL develops Behavioural Standards Booklet to improve operations

    Paul Adom-Otchere, the board chairman of Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), has urged the airport’s personnel and other stakeholders to respect one another’s contributions and embrace service excellence as a community in order to put Kotoka International Airport (KIA) on the map of the world.

    He made this statement at the beginning of the 2022 Global Customer Service Week, which will take place from October 3–7, 2022, with the theme “Celebrate Service.”  The Airport Behavioural Standards Booklet was introduced at this year’s ceremony as well.

    Mr. Adom-Otchere indicated that Kotoka International Airport had come a long way in Airport Service Delivery and had been the proud recipient of the Airport Service Quality Customer Experience Awards on three consecutive occasions (Best Airport by Region and Size; 2-5million passengers for 2019, 2020 and 2021.

    This, he said was testament to the many years of consistent effort to enhance service delivery at the airport.

    He expressed appreciation to staff and stakeholders for their dedication and contribution to the successes chalked and indicated that the giant strides made in the Customer Satisfaction journey over the years could not have been possible without the support and commitment of staff, stakeholders and Customers.

    Airport Behavioural Standards Booklet

    Launching the Airport Behavioural Standards Booklet, the Board Chairman reiterated that the overall objective of developing a general standard behavioural guideline was to improve Customer Experience at the airports, regardless of who provides the service.

    He further added that the first edition of the handbook highlights excellent service standards that have been developed in partnership with cherished stakeholders. “This handbook is part of GACL’s performance enhancement strategies towards improving performance in the ACI Airport Service Quality Program and delivering enhanced customer experience at our airports”, Mr Adom-Otchere said.

    He urged staff and stakeholders to put their shoulders to the wheel in delivering outstanding Customer Experience in line with the defined Service Standards at the airports.

    Mr Eric Prempeh, Customer Service Manager on his part, affirmed that the celebration of Customer Service Week was to highlight the essence of Customer Service whilst recognizing the people who serve and support customers daily.

    He urged stakeholders to come together to offer a bouquet of world-class service experiences in a manner that will leave passengers with no choice but to select Kotoka International Airport over and over again.

    Another significant highlight of the launch was the signing of the Service Pledge by Management, Staff and Stakeholders present at the event. The Service Pledge is basically a commitment by all to work together as a team to deliver outstanding customer experience to passengers and stakeholders.

    The Customer Service Week, expected to be observed at all GACL-operated airports in Ghana will feature activities such as Airport Service Quiz, GACL goes Sporty, Photo Booth Session with passengers, Departmental Customer Service Awareness forum and Management’s visit to Agencies operating at the airport among others.

  • KIA develops Behavioural Standards Booklet to improve operations

    In order to put Kotoka International Airport (KIA) on the map of the world, the board chairman of Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), Mr. Paul Adom-Otchere, has urged stakeholders and employees to respect each other’s positions and embrace service excellence as a community.

    He made this statement at the beginning of the “Celebrate Service”-themed 2022 Global Customer Service Week, which runs from October 3–7.
    At this year’s ceremony, the Airport Behavioural Standards Booklet was also released.

    Mr. Adom-Otchere indicated that Kotoka International Airport had come a long way in Airport Service Delivery and had been the proud recipient of the Airport Service Quality Customer Experience Awards on three consecutive occasions (Best Airport by Region and Size; 2-5million passengers for 2019, 2020 and 2021.

    This, he said was testament to the many years of consistent effort to enhance service delivery at the airport.

    He expressed appreciation to staff and stakeholders for their dedication and contribution to the successes chalked and indicated that the giant strides made in the Customer Satisfaction journey over the years could not have been possible without the support and commitment of staff, stakeholders and Customers.

    Airport Behavioural Standards Booklet

    Launching the Airport Behavioural Standards Booklet, the Board Chairman reiterated that the overall objective of developing a general standard behavioural guideline was to improve Customer Experience at the airports, regardless of who provides the service.

    He further added that the first edition of the handbook highlights excellent service standards that have been developed in partnership with cherished stakeholders. “This handbook is part of GACL’s performance enhancement strategies towards improving performance in the ACI Airport Service Quality Program and delivering enhanced customer experience at our airports”, Mr Adom-Otchere said.

    He urged staff and stakeholders to put their shoulders to the wheel in delivering outstanding Customer Experience in line with the defined Service Standards at the airports.

    Mr Eric Prempeh, Customer Service Manager on his part, affirmed that the celebration of Customer Service Week was to highlight the essence of Customer Service whilst recognizing the people who serve and support customers daily.

    He urged stakeholders to come together to offer a bouquet of world-class service experiences in a manner that will leave passengers with no choice but to select Kotoka International Airport over and over again.

    Another significant highlight of the launch was the signing of the Service Pledge by Management, Staff and Stakeholders present at the event. The Service Pledge is basically a commitment by all to work together as a team to deliver outstanding customer experience to passengers and stakeholders.

    The Customer Service Week, expected to be observed at all GACL-operated airports in Ghana will feature activities such as Airport Service Quiz, GACL goes Sporty, Photo Booth Session with passengers, Departmental Customer Service Awareness forum and Management’s visit to Agencies operating at the airport among others.

  • Kotoka International Airport has the capabilities to handle all aircraft – Captain Solomon Quainoo

    Since the Emirates A380 landed at Kotoka International Airport in Accra nearly four years ago, Ghana has once more experienced a historic landing at the same location.

    This time, on September 29, 2022, a British Airways A380, one of the biggest passenger planes in the world, landed in Accra, marking the nation’s historic second-time flight.

    Captain Solomon Quainoo, a former Ghanaian pilot for Emirates, shared the information on Twitter on September 30. He stated, “Accra got a wonderful surprise yesterday having a record 2nd time an A380 operated (by British Airways) into Kotoka International Airport.
    Nearly 4 years have passed since we first landed an Emirates A380 in Accra.

    He added that the second historic landing of the largest passenger aircraft proves that Ghana’s main airport [KIA] has the capabilities to handle such fleet.

    “Such a great sign for the impressive capabilities of our home airport to handle the world’s biggest passenger aircraft,” Captain Quainoo added.

  • World’s biggest passenger plane makes technical stopover in Kotoka

    On Thursday, September 29, 2022, British Airways Flight A380 landed at Kotoka International Airport for a technical layover.

    This is the second time an A380 aircraft has operated or landed in Accra, as the British Airways ferry flight (A380) from Johannesburg to London Heathrow made a maintenance stop at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

    Large wide-body airplane developed and built by Airbus is the A380.

    It is the world’s largest passenger airliner and only full-length double-deck jet airliner.

    The A380 has a standard seating layout for 555 passengers on two decks in a three-class configuration and needs about 3,000 m (9,800 ft) of runway to take off fully loaded.

    The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) announcing the technical stopover in a statement said “British Airways could not have made a better decision of choosing KIA as the preferred Airport within the sub-region for this vital technical stop.”

    “KIA is centrally located in the world, on the Greenwich Meridian and close to the Equator, making it easily accessible from any part of the world.

    “The Airport’s runway length of 3,400m, taxiways, and other infrastructure meets and, in some cases, exceed the standards and recommended practices of the aviation industry and is suited for the maneuverability, accessibility to the passenger boarding bridge and remote parking for the A-380.

    “Indeed, the Airport has a high reputation for regulatory, safety and operational compliance in the industry,” it added.

    Commercial airports are classified into 10 categories based on the largest type of aircraft they regulate.

    KIA has a firefighting category of 10 and well-trained staff capable of handling the A380 aircraft.

    KIA remains one of the most attractive airports in the West African region with the capacity to accommodate the largest commercial aircraft in the world.

    Our long-standing experience in facilitation and cooperation between all airport stakeholders; the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Service Providers and airlines, ensures KIA’s readiness to accommodate A380 commercial operations

  • World’s biggest passenger plane makes technical stopover in Kotoka

    British Airways Flight A380 touched down at the Kotoka International Airport on Thursday September 29, 2022 for a technical stopover.

    The British Airways ferry flight (A380) from Johannesburg enroute to London Heathrow made a technical stop at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA), making this the second time an A380 aircraft has operated or landed in Accra.

    The A380 is a large wide-body airliner developed and produced by Airbus.

    It is the world’s largest passenger airliner and only full-length double-deck jet airliner.

    The A380 has a standard seating layout for 555 passengers on two decks in a three-class configuration and needs about 3,000 m (9,800 ft) of runway to take off fully loaded.

    The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) announcing the technical stopover in a statement said “British Airways could not have made a better decision of choosing KIA as the preferred Airport within the sub-region for this vital technical stop.”

    “KIA is centrally located in the world, on the Greenwich Meridian and close to the Equator, making it easily accessible from any part of the world.

    “The Airport’s runway length of 3,400m, taxiways, and other infrastructure meets and, in some cases, exceed the standards and recommended practices of the aviation industry and is suited for the maneuverability, accessibility to the passenger boarding bridge and remote parking for the A-380.

    “Indeed, the Airport has a high reputation for regulatory, safety and operational compliance in the industry,” it added.

    Commercial airports are classified into 10 categories based on the largest type of aircraft they regulate.

    KIA has a firefighting category of 10 and well-trained staff capable of handling the A380 aircraft.

    KIA remains one of the most attractive airports in the West African region with the capacity to accommodate the largest commercial aircraft in the world.

    Our long-standing experience in facilitation and cooperation between all airport stakeholders; the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Service Providers and airlines, ensures KIA’s readiness to accommodate A380 commercial operations

    Source:graphic.com

  • First aircraft maintenance operator to be certified

    The growth of an aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) business in Ghana is slowly giving the country’s efforts to establish itself as a major aviation center in the West African area more pace.

    The Kotoka International Airport will host Ghana’s first maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility after the 3AMS-CELEMS Company Limited completes an ongoing certification process (KIA).

    When finished, it will make local MRO services possible for airline operators, particularly those operating in the domestic market as PassionAir and Africa World Airlines (AWA).

    The move is also expected to help Ghana take advantage of the global aircraft MRO market estimated at $87.01 billion per annum.

    Consequently, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has given the permission for 3AMS-CELEMS Company Limited to proceed to stage four of the five-stage certification process.

    Stages of certification

    A Senior Aviation Safety Inspector (Airworthiness) at the GCAA, Benjamin Owusu, briefing some selected journalists in Accra on September 22, said the stage-four involved demonstration and inspection of the MRO facility.

    “It is after a successful demonstration and inspection that the final certificate will be issued for operation of MRO services to start in the country,” he said.

    Mr Owusu, who is also Manager in charge of Quality Assurance at GCAA, said the certification process started November 2017 with a certification team established by the GCAA to take 3AMS-CELEMS Company Limited through the process.

    This, he said, followed with a pre-application stage where the company was issued with a pre-assessment statement of intent.

    He said a pre-application meeting between the certification team and the company with interest to establish the MRO facility would follow to address issues in detail.

    “When we are okay with discussions in the meeting we issue the formal application package details of the company and its personnel will be provided.”

    “Including the package is also the schedule of events and the kind of manuals that are supposed to be produced,” he said.

    Third stage

    Mr Owusu stated that the third stage often takes a long time but was completed in March this year and for that reason 3AMS- CELEMS has been issued a letter into the fourth stage.

    “The fourth stage being the demonstration and inspection. The certification process is under the Ghana Civil Aviation Requirement (Flight Standard) part six which is on certification of approved maintenance organisation,” he said.

    Final certification

    The Managing Director (MD) of 3AMS- CELEMS, Clifford Martey Korley, said when the final certification was done, the new MRO operator would be able to repair and maintain single aisle aircraft and Boeing 737s in the country and the West Africa sub-region.

    This, he said, meant that domestic operators, Africa World Airlines and PassionAir could service and repair their fleet locally.

    “West Africa has only an MRO in Nigeria able to repair smaller aircraft despite being one of the regions where air traffic growth, prior to the pandemic in 2020, was on the ascendancy.

    “There are about 32 West African-based airlines servicing the region and 10s of international flights servicing various airports in the sub-region daily,” he said.

    He said airline operators in the sub-region have to either fly to Ethiopia, Egypt or South Africa to have faults and regular maintenance carried out on most large aircraft.

    The hub agenda

    Mr Korley said when his company’s final certification was issued, hopefully by December, it would be able to service all such aircraft in the sub-region, earn money for the country and help hasten the re-attainment of category one status for KIA.

    “For Ghana to become an aviation hub, the establishment of an MRO is imperative.”

    “The coming on-stream of 3AMS-CELEMS Limited’s MRO operations will greatly accelerate the vision of becoming the go-to aviation hub in the sub-region,” he added.

  • KIA gets first standard certified airline repair facility

    At Kotoka International Airport, 3AMS-CELMS will run Ghana’s first Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility.

    Ben Owusu, a Senior Aviation Safety Inspector and Manager at Quality Assurance, claims that the organization is almost finished with its certification procedure, which began about five years ago.

    On March 29, 2022, the GCAA, the regulatory body for the aviation industry, approved 3AMS-CELMS Limited’s request to move on to stage four of the five-step certification process.

    In Ghana and the rest of West Africa, single-aisle aircraft and Boeing 737s will be able to be repaired and maintained by the company, according to Mr. Clifford Martey Korley, managing director of 3AMS-CELMS Limited.

    This means domestic operators Africa World Airlines (AWA) and PassionAir can service and repair their fleet locally.

    West Africa only has an MRO in Nigeria able to repair smaller aircraft, despite being one of the regions where air traffic growth prior to the pandemic in 2020 was on the ascendancy.

    There are about 32 West-Africa based airlines servicing the region, and tens of international flights servicing various airports in the sub-region daily.

    Airline operators in the sub-region have to either fly to Ethiopia, Egypt or South Africa to have faults and regular maintenance carried out on most large aircraft.

    Mr. Korley said when his company’s final certification is issued – hopefully by December, it will be able to service all such aircraft in the sub-region, earn money for the country and help hasten re-attainment of Category-1 status for the Kotoka International Airport.

    For Ghana to become an aviation hub, the establishment of an MRO is imperative.

    “The coming on-stream of 3AMS-CELMS Limited’s MRO operations will greatly accelerate the vision of becoming the go-to aviation hub in the sub-region,” he added.

  • KIA gets first standard certified airline repair facility

    At Kotoka International Airport, 3AMS-CELMS will run Ghana’s first Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility.

    Ben Owusu, a Senior Aviation Safety Inspector and Manager at Quality Assurance, claims that the organization is almost finished with its certification procedure, which began about five years ago.

    On March 29, 2022, the GCAA, the regulatory body for the aviation industry, approved 3AMS-CELMS Limited’s request to move on to stage four of the five-step certification process.

    In Ghana and the rest of West Africa, single-aisle aircraft and Boeing 737s will be able to be repaired and maintained by the company, according to Mr. Clifford Martey Korley, managing director of 3AMS-CELMS Limited.

    This means domestic operators Africa World Airlines (AWA) and PassionAir can service and repair their fleet locally.

    West Africa only has an MRO in Nigeria able to repair smaller aircraft, despite being one of the regions where air traffic growth prior to the pandemic in 2020 was on the ascendancy.

    There are about 32 West-Africa based airlines servicing the region, and tens of international flights servicing various airports in the sub-region daily.

    Airline operators in the sub-region have to either fly to Ethiopia, Egypt or South Africa to have faults and regular maintenance carried out on most large aircraft.

    Mr. Korley said when his company’s final certification is issued – hopefully by December, it will be able to service all such aircraft in the sub-region, earn money for the country and help hasten re-attainment of Category-1 status for the Kotoka International Airport.

    For Ghana to become an aviation hub, the establishment of an MRO is imperative.

    “The coming on-stream of 3AMS-CELMS Limited’s MRO operations will greatly accelerate the vision of becoming the go-to aviation hub in the sub-region,” he added.

  • The CEO of Grammy awards, Harvey Mason Jr. arrives in Ghana for GUBA awards

    The Chief Executive of the Grammy Awards, Harvey Mason Jr., has arrived in Ghana for the 13th edition of the Grow, Unite, Build Africa (GUBA) Awards, slated for September 29, 2022, at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Zionfelix.com (@zionfelixdotcom)

    He arrived at the Kotoka International Airport on Sunday, September 25, 2022, and was met on arrival by the CEO of GUBA Awards, Dentaa Amoateng MBE.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Zionfelix.com (@zionfelixdotcom)

    From what we gather, Mr. Mason will participate in the Awards on the back of his nomination in the ‘Entertainment Mogul’ category of the awards this year.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Zionfelix.com (@zionfelixdotcom)

    However, before he finally makes his way to Rwanda, he will meet some stakeholders in the Ghanaian entertainment industry because the awards scheme per his revelation in a short interview at the airport is looking at adding a category that will award musicians who do Afrobeats.

    Watch the videos of the moment he arrived below…

    Harvey Jay Mason Jr. is an American record producer, songwriter, movie producer, and current CEO of The Recording Academy.

    Source:xionfelix.net

  • Court convicts Liberian national for narcotic trafficking at KIA

    An Accra High Court has sentenced a Liberian national to ten years imprisonment for attempting to smuggle cocaine a narcotic drug through the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) to Bangkok, Thailand.

    The court presided over by her Ladyship Justice Mary Ekua Yanzuh on August 31, 2022, after the conviction of Ms. Wolo Maikplay Margaret, also fined her ten thousand penalty units.

    In default, Ms Maikplay would serve three years additional term.

    The accused pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted exportation and possession of a narcotic drug without a Minister of Health license, which violates sections 36 and 37 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), respectively.

    The presiding judge found her guilty on her own plea on each count to run concurrently.

    Ms. Wolo Maikplay Margaret was apprehended by Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) officers on the 14th of May, 2022, while transiting through Kotoka International Airport (KIA) from Monrovia to Bangkok-Thailand onboard Qatar Airways.

    A total of thirty (30) pellets containing cocaine weighing 277.2101grams were retrieved from beneath her breast and vagina when commission officials conducted a physical search on her.

    Francis Opoku Amoah, Acting Director of Public Affairs and International Relations Department of the Narcotics Control Commission, in a statement, said officials of the Commission received a tip-off from a sister security agency at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), which led to the retrieval of the pellets of cocaine.

    The Commission emphasised that “the possession and attempted transportation of narcotic drugs is still illegal and punishable under domestic law.”

    It also assured the public of its continuous commitment to reducing to the barest minimum, the influx and smuggling of all types of narcotic drugs through collaboration with the relevant stakeholders.

    Source: GNA

  • Court convicts Liberian national for narcotic trafficking at KIA

    A Liberian national has been given a ten (10) year prison sentence by the Accra High Court for attempting to transport cocaine through the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) to Bangkok, Thailand.

    Following Ms. Wolo Maikplay Margaret’s conviction, the court presided over by Her Ladyship Justice Mary Ekua Yanzuh further penalized her 10,000 penalty units in default and ordered her to serve an extra three years in prison on Wednesday, August 31, 2022.

    In accordance with sections 36 and 37 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019), the accused admitted guilt to two charges of attempted exporting and possession of a controlled substance without a Minister of Health license.

    The presiding judge found her guilty on her own plea on each count to run concurrently.

    Ms. Wolo Maikplay Margaret was apprehended by Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) officers on the 14th of May, 2022, while transiting through Kotoka International Airport (KIA) from Monrovia to Bangkok-Thailand onboard Qatar Airways.

    Court convicts Liberian national for narcotic trafficking at KIA

    A total of thirty (30) pellets containing cocaine weighing 277.2101grams were retrieved from beneath her breast and Vagina when commission officials conducted a physical search on her after receiving a tip off from a sister security agency at Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

    A statement issued by the Narcotic Control Commission on Tuesday, “emphasised that the possession and attempted transportation of narcotic drugs is still illegal and punishable under domestic law.”

    It also assured citizens of “its ongoing commitment to keeping the influx and smuggling of all types of narcotic drugs to a bare minimum through collaboration with the relevant stakeholders.”

  • KIA updates the COVID-19 recommendations for users

    The COVID-19 regulations for travelers entering Ghana through the Kotoka International Airport have been updated (KIA).

    On Thursday, September 1, 2022, the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) revised the rules and they became effective.

    All international travelers, including those from the ECOWAS region, who plan to fly to Ghana, will be required to be completely immunized, under the new GACL rules.

    Also, “all International passengers including those from the ECOWAS region must complete a Port Health Declaration Form at https://www.ghs-hdf.org/hdf/ before embarkation of flight to Ghana.”

    Ghanaians and foreign residents “8 years and above arriving in Ghana will be required to provide evidence of full vaccination for a Covid-19…”

    “Fully vaccinated will be exempted from pre-departure Covid-19 PCR testing from point of embarkation.”

    While the “fully vaccinated will be exempted from Covid-19 testing upon arrival at the KIA”, the partially vaccinated or unvaccinated will be required to present a NEGATIVE 48hrs PCR test result to the airline before embarkation and upon arrival”.

    “Partially vaccinated or unvaccinated will undergo Covid-19 testing at the KIA upon arrival and partially vaccinated or unvaccinated will undergo Covid-19 vaccination at KIA upon arrival.”

    Non-Ghanaians at “the point of embarkation must provide evidence of full vaccination status to the Airline prior to embarkation”, Airlines that board non-Ghanaians without evidence of full vaccination will be considered to have violated the Covid-19 guidelines for Ghana and shall be fined $3,500.00.

    It continued that passengers “travelling to Kotoka International Airport with fake or forged vaccination certificates shall be quarantined and returned to the point of embarkation at their own cost.”

    However, “all arriving passengers will undergo temperature screening, Yellow Fever Card verification and Covid-19 vaccination certificate verification as required.”

  • Kumasi International Airport to be operationalized in October

    The Kumasi Airport which is currently being upgraded to ease the travel burdens on the Kotoka International Airport is 98 per cent complete.

    The project, started in 2018 by the Government of Ghana under the leadership of President Nana Addo-Dankwa Akufo-Addo, costs 124.9 million euros.

    Being executed by Contracta Construction UK Limited, phase two of the Kumasi International Airport project will see the extension of the runway from the current 1,981 meters to 2,300 meters.

    A new road network and external works with security fence and substations are among the scope of work on the airport.

    The project also involves airfield works, new Air Traffic Control (ATC) building, a new fire station building, and the construction of a new terminal building with the capacity to accommodate one million passengers a year.

    However, aspects of the projects that have been completed include the construction of the terminal, installation of escalators, the baggage carousel, check-in points, and passenger boarding bridges.

    According to Mr. Yaw Appiah Dankwa, Director of Planning and Project of the Ghana Airport Company Limited, the project is expected to be ready for operationalization by October 2022

    Source:ghanaweb.com

  • Tracey Boakye drops hints of wedding bells

    Actress Tracey Boakye has hinted at her wedding, which will take place in the Ashanti Regional capital of Kumasi at an undisclosed date.

    Rumours of the marriage between the movie producer, nicknamed ‘East Legon Landlady”, and her secret man was first fueled by blogger Zionfelix, her close friend.

    He shared an image that declared July 26 as Tracey’s bachelorette party.

    Earlier, the actress published a video of herself wearing a golden engagement band on her ring finger. This development further heightened the rumors.

    On July 26, Tracey Boakye announced her wedding hashtag. The union has been dubbed “#….cey22”. She has left followers to guess the identity of her soon-to-be husband.

    Some wedding vendors, including Menscook, have already published the said image on their Instagram page, adding that they can’t wait to serve the incoming couple and their guests.

    On Tuesday morning, the 31-year-old mother of two took to her Instagram story to repost some congratulatory messages from fans.

    Also, videos captured the arrival of some friends at Kotoka International Airport who are in for the supposed wedding.

    Check out the posts below:

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Tracey Boakye (@tracey_boakye)

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Zionfelix.com (@zionfelixdotcom)

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Tracey Boakye (@tracey_boakye)

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Menscookgh (@menscookgh)

    Source: Ghanaweb