Tag: Kumasi

  • Over 15 vehicles reduced to ashes after fuel tanker crashed in Kumasi

    Over 15 vehicles reduced to ashes after fuel tanker crashed in Kumasi

    Over fifteen (15) vehicles have been reduced to ashes after a fuel tanker carrying 54,000 litres of petrol crashed into a garage at Ridge, near Plux 2 Pub, in the Kumasi Metropolis of the Ashanti Region. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, April 16, has left the garage owner counting his losses. 

    In March, Nearby houses around Potsin Junction on the Kasoa–Winneba Highway were thrown into turmoil after a fuel tanker overturned and exploded on Tuesday, March 17. The tanker reportedly fell on its side, triggering a fire.

    Last month, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) confirmed that the fire outbreak on the Accra-Nsawam Highway near Okanta in the early hours of Saturday, February 14 claimed the lives of six people and injured seven others.

    The deceased persons include, three (3) victims including two males and one female.

    According to the Service a total of fifteen (15) casualties were recorded following the incident, comprising eleven (11) males and four (4) females.

    In a press statement the Ghana National Fire Service added that “A total of 15 casualties were recorded (11 males and 4 females). Three (3) victims (two males, one female) tragically died at the scene, and their badly charred bodies were handed over to the Police for preservation and further investigation”.

    In the early hours of Saturday, February 14, a fuel tanker explosion destroyed multiple vehicles along the Nsawam-Accra highway, causing heavy traffic congestion on the busy stretch.

    Preliminary reports indicate that the explosion occurred after the tanker was involved in a collision, which caused the vehicle to catch fire.

    Thick black smoke was seen rising from the scene, sparking fear among motorists and residents in nearby communities.

    Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service responded promptly and are working to bring the blaze under control and prevent it from spreading to other vehicles and properties.

    Emergency responders have since cordoned off the affected section of the road as firefighting operations continue.No casualties have been confirmed so far.

    However, emergency teams are still assessing the situation and searching the area to ensure that no victims are trapped.

    The incident has caused significant traffic disruption along the Nsawam-Accra route, which serves as a major link between the Eastern Region and Accra.

    Motorists have been advised to exercise caution when approaching the area and to use alternative routes while firefighting and vehicle recovery operations continue. Police personnel are also at the scene managing traffic and ensuring the safety of road users.

    Meanwhile, Eastern South Regional Police Commander, DCOP George Ohene Bossman Boadi, has warned the public against stealing fuel from tankers involved in road accidents.

    The warning comes after a fatal fuel tanker explosion was reported at Ntoaso on the Accra–Nsawam Highway in the Eastern Region, which killed three people and damaged property.

    According to a report by 3News.com, Suhum Fire Service Public Relations Officer ADO1 Akonoh Opare Ohene Daniel explained that the blast occurred when residents tried to steal fuel from the overturned tanker.

    “The residents in this area were siphoning the fuel, leading to the explosion. Traffic had already built up, and a female motorist who was trapped behind was burnt too.This is wrong. Residents along highways must stop engaging in such illegal activities,” he stated.

    He therefore urged the public to refrain from such dangerous and illegal acts and allow experts to manage accident scenes at all times.

    The 3News.com report added that Eyewitnesses revealed that the incident happened around 5:00 a.m. on Saturday, when a fuel tanker heading toward Kumasi reportedly overturned along the shoulder of the busy highway.

    Several residents and motorcycle riders rushed to the scene to steal fuel from the overturned vehicle.

    The situation quickly turned deadly when the tanker ignited, causing an explosion that claimed the lives of two men and one woman.

    The blast also destroyed around five vehicles caught in traffic, including motorcycles believed to belong to the victims. Passengers and bystanders fled as flames spread across the area.

    Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police Service, National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), and National Ambulance Service responded swiftly.

    Several individuals who sustained life-threatening injuries were rescued and taken to Nsawam Government Hospital, where they are receiving treatment. The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the Suhum Government Hospital morgue.

    Eastern South Regional Police Commander DCOP George Ohene Bossman Boadi stated that police officers would remain at the scene to manage traffic while Fire Service personnel continue efforts to extinguish the flames.

  • You will continue to enjoy uninterrupted power supply – ECG assures GAF

    You will continue to enjoy uninterrupted power supply – ECG assures GAF

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has pledged to maintain a steady power supply to military installations and barracks to support the operations of the Ghana Armed Forces.

    Giving the assurance, Mr. George Amoah, Ashanti West Regional General Manager of ECG, noted that the military remains a key institution that is consistently prioritised in electricity distribution across the country.

    He indicated that the company would continue to take steps to guarantee reliable power supply to all military facilities.

    Mr. Amoah made these remarks when he led a regional delegation to the Fourth Infantry Battalion (4BN) in Kumasi.

    The purpose of the visit was to reinforce the strong working relationship that already exists between ECG and the military.

    The engagement also formed part of broader efforts by the company to strengthen ties with stakeholders and enhance service delivery both in the region and nationwide.

    During discussions, both parties examined challenges affecting the military’s operations, particularly issues related to power stability in the area.

    Mr. Amoah disclosed that ECG engineers had conducted patrols along the power lines serving the 4BN to detect faults affecting supply reliability.

    According to him, the inspection uncovered issues such as weak jumpers, deteriorated poles, overgrown vegetation, and undersized conductors.

    He assured that these faults would be promptly fixed to ensure consistent, safe, and high-quality electricity supply to the military base.

    Mr. Amoah further revealed that the feeder supplying power to the command has been classified as an essential distribution line.

    He added that the company would soon roll out interventions aimed at strengthening the network to ensure uninterrupted supply.

    He also expressed appreciation to the 4BN for supporting ECG’s asset digitisation exercise under the Customer Assets and Information Management System (CAIMS) project in recent years.

    Lieutenant Colonel Jenuni Emmanuel Wumbiedow, Commanding Officer of the 4BN, commended ECG for improving its communication with both the public and the military command.

    He also praised the company for its responsiveness whenever power outages affected the battalion.

    “As military personnel, we need constant electricity supply, as our operations would be difficult without it, especially, at night when we have to safeguard our equipment,” Lt Col. Wumbiedow said.

    He assured ECG of the military’s readiness to collaborate in any way necessary to ensure improved electricity supply to the command and the wider region.

    Ghana’s former power distributor, Power Distribution Services (PDS), has failed in its attempt to secure a judgement debt against the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) at an international arbitration panel in London.

    A report carried by citinewsroom.com indicates that the tribunal rejected every allegation PDS levelled against ECG in a legal battle that has dragged on for close to three years.

    The dispute began after PDS dragged ECG to the tribunal over the cancellation of the much-debated concession deal, which was introduced to inject private-sector performance into the management of Ghana’s electricity distribution system.

    That agreement, approved under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration, was first suspended and later cancelled when it was discovered that the financial guarantees submitted by PDS were not genuine.

    PDS later claimed that ECG had no lawful basis to end the deal and demanded a declaration from the arbitration body that the termination was unlawful.

    The company further requested nearly $390 million in compensation — including direct expenses of about $39.4 million and an estimated $351.5 million in supposed lost profits.

    Lawyers for ECG, however, insisted that ending the arrangement was necessary and justified, arguing that PDS failed to verify the legitimacy of the guarantees that formed the foundation of the concession.

    In its final ruling, the tribunal sided with ECG, confirming that the fraudulent documents were sufficient grounds to cancel the agreement and dismissing all of PDS’s financial claims.

    In 2019, the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited (ECG) terminated the Private Sector Participation Transaction Agreements with Power Distribution Services Ghana Limited (PDS).

    ECG therefore assumed full operational and financial control of the electricity distribution business in the Southern Zone of Ghana with immediate effect, a statement issued by the company on Wednesday, October 23, said.

    Consequently, all activities including metering, billing, distribution and reconciliation of bills, revenue collection and new service connections, which were hitherto undertaken by PDS have reverted to ECG, the statement added.

    He other activities are

    Disconnections and reconnections

    Faulty meter replacements

    Network faults and repairs

    Network Operations, Maintenance, Expansion and Rehabilitation

    Complaints and fault reporting to the call centres and any other related services

    In this regard, all payments in respect of power purchases and other related activities should take place at ECG Regional and District Offices, ECG existing Customer Service Centres, ECG licensed vending stations, ECG operated cash points and ECG authorised Banks.

    The statement added that, all assets currently in the name of PDS revert to ECG with immediate effect and will be rebranded in accordance with the decision over the next few weeks.

    The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has indicated that greed and political interference led to the collapse of the Power Distribution Services (PDS) deal.

    Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Wednesday, July 16, Mr. Jinapor noted that private companies becoming a third party in the country’s electricity distribution services was not the issue.

    However, the selfish decision by certain individuals corrupted the whole process.

    “We are not going to use the PDS approach in bringing in the private sector. PDS was not a bad approach in terms of private sector involvement. The only bad thing was that a few greedy individuals decided to cannibalise the process and to sell the shares among themselves,” he said.

    The PDS scandal traces back to October 2019 when the Government of Ghana abruptly terminated a concession agreement with Power Distribution Services (PDS) Limited. This agreement had involved the takeover of the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG) assets for electricity distribution across southern Ghana.

    The termination followed a forensic audit by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), which revealed serious breaches of contract and concerns over the integrity of the process.

    In 2014, the Government of Ghana signed a Millennium Challenge Compact with the MCC, aiming to stimulate private-sector investment in the power distribution sector. Meralco, a company based in the Philippines, was selected as the concessionaire through an international tender process.

    To meet Ghana’s local content laws, Power Distribution Services (PDS) Limited was established, with Meralco holding a 30% stake and various Ghanaian and Angolan entities holding the remaining shares.

    As part of the agreement, PDS was required to meet 41 conditions precedent, five of which were critical for ensuring transparency and protecting Ghanaian taxpayers. Among these, Conditions Precedent 24 and 31 mandated that PDS provide payment securities in the form of a Demand Guarantee or a Letter of Credit issued by a qualified bank.

    However, the audit revealed that PDS secured an insurance guarantee instead—allegedly facilitated by a meeting chaired by ex-Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

    A group of concerned Ghanaian citizens formally petitioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to investigate Dr Bawumia

    The petitioners’ request to the Special Prosecutor highlights a key meeting, reportedly chaired by Dr. Bawumia, where the decision was made to accept a downgrade of the required bank guarantee to an insurance guarantee.

    This meeting was also reportedly attended by the Chief of Staff, the Minister of Finance, and the Minister of Energy.

    The petition alleges that this decision led to the eventual transfer of ECG’s assets to PDS under questionable circumstances.

    The insurance guarantee in question was purportedly issued by Al Koot Insurance and Reinsurance, a Qatari firm.

    However, subsequent investigations revealed that the guarantee was fraudulent, with the signatory, Yahaya Al Nouri, lacking the authority to bind the company to the deal. Despite this, the transfer of ECG’s assets proceeded, violating the agreement’s terms and international best practices.

    The petition further outlines the financial losses Ghana suffered due to the botched PDS deal. The audit report revealed that PDS’s local shareholders spent approximately $12.25 million to procure the fraudulent insurance guarantee, with $4.25 million allegedly taken from ECG’s operating accounts after the illegal takeover of its assets.

    The termination of the PDS agreement also resulted in Ghana losing $190 million in funding from the Millennium Challenge Corporation, which was intended for critical infrastructure and financial recovery in the energy sector.

    In their petition, the citizens call on the Special Prosecutor to investigate Dr. Bawumia’s involvement in the decision to downgrade the payment security requirements, which they argue directly led to the fraudulent acquisition of ECG’s assets by PDS.

    They also demand an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the entire PDS deal, including the misuse of $4.25 million from ECG’s accounts and the overall cost to Ghanaian taxpayers.

    The petitioners argue that under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and the Office of Special Prosecutor Act, they have the right to request such an investigation. They emphasize the importance of holding those responsible accountable to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

  • One-Week Observation for gospel legend Yaw Sarpong to take place in Kumasi on February 19

    One-Week Observation for gospel legend Yaw Sarpong to take place in Kumasi on February 19

    The One-Week Observation for gospel icon Yaw Sarpong is scheduled for February 19, 2026, at Asuofua Park in Kumasi.

    Yaw Sarpong’s passing was announced by his manager, Nana Poku Ashis, on January 20, 2026, throwing the Asomafo family and the broader gospel fraternity into profound grief.

    Supporters of the group are also mourning the recent death of Maame Tiwa, a devoted member whose loss deeply affected the group just weeks earlier.

    The event will commemorate Yaw Sarpong’s life and enduring influence, highlighting his impact on Ghana’s gospel music scene. As the founder and leader of Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo, he helped define Akan gospel with a unique style characterised by strong theological messaging, well-trained vocal delivery, and carefully structured choral arrangements.

    The group’s songs, widely recognised for blending spiritual richness with musical excellence, shaped church choir performances across the country and raised the benchmark for gospel presentations and choir leadership. Popular tracks including Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa remain widely used in worship and Christian events throughout Ghana.

    His passing follows closely on the death of Maame Tiwa, a prominent member of the Asomafo group, whose loss shook the gospel music community about a month ago.

    Yaw Sarpong had been unwell for several years and had reduced his public appearances while undergoing treatment.

    He is widely recognised as a towering figure in Ghana’s gospel music landscape, having led Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo to national prominence. The group played a significant role in shaping contemporary Akan gospel music, earning respect for its rich lyrical depth and disciplined, doctrine-based musical style.

    Throughout his career, Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo released several well-known gospel songs, including Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa, which remain popular in churches across the country.

    In recognition of his contribution to gospel music, Yaw Sarpong received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

    Celebrated Ghanaian gospel musician Maame Tiwaa also passed away some weeks ago.

    According to reports by UTV, the veteran singer died in the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025. She is said to have passed on after a brief illness, although the exact cause of her sudden death has not yet been disclosed.

    Maame Tiwaa was widely admired for her long-standing collaboration with Yaw Sarpong and the Asomafo Band, a partnership that earned her a revered place in Ghana’s gospel music community.

    After four decades in the industry, she recently earned her first nomination at the 3Music Awards 2021, marking a significant milestone in her career.

    Known for her distinctive and angelic voice, Maame Tiwaa featured in several popular songs, including Tenabea Foforo, Yen Nka Nkyere Yen Agya, Sumenaso, and other well-loved gospel hits.

    Since news of her passing broke, social media platforms have been flooded with tributes from fans, with many expressing deep sorrow and extending condolences to Yaw Sarpong and the entire Asomafo family.

    The musician’s family has not yet released an official statement. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

    Veteran actor, director and cultural advocate William Addo, widely known by his stage name Akpatse, is dead.

    According to reports, he died on November 22, 2025, after years of battling severe health complications.

    Veteran actor William “Akpatse” Addo, was loved for his roles on GTV’s Thursday Theatre. His comic talent and stage presence, became a household name in Ghanaian theatre and television.

    Akpatse was a trained scholar, holding a degree in Drama from the University of Ghana and a master’s in Acting and Directing from the University of Leeds.

    He held important roles in the arts, including Director at the National Theatre and Director of Programmes at the National Commission on Culture, and taught many of Ghana’s top actors as a university lecturer.

    In recent years, he battled serious health problems, including vision loss from glaucoma and cataracts.

    His Funeral arrangements will however, be announced soon.

    Last year, renowned Ghanaian actor, Vincent McCauley, famous for his role in the beloved 90s television series “Things We Do For Love,” passed away.

    The news of his demise was confirmed by his colleague actor and friend, Adjetey Annang.

    Known as Max in the TV series, Vincent McCauley is reported to have died on Thursday, January 18, 2024. The cause of his death is currently unknown.

    Vincent McCauley’s notable roles also include appearances in movies such as “Games People Play,” “Fortune Island,” “Office Palava,” “Living With Trisha: House of Secrets,” and “The Idiot and I.”

    Since the announcement of his death, tributes have been pouring in from various sources.

    Adjetey Annan, also known as Pusher, a rival to Max in the 90s series, expressed his sorrow, saying, “Rivals on set ‘Pusher & Max’ since 1999 but cool guys off set. Thank you for being a part of the family and paying your dues very well. Rest in perfect peace brother🙏 Our deepest condolences to the family.”

    Numerous other celebrities have taken to social media to share their condolences.

    R.I.P to a Ghanaian screen legend Vincent McCauley💔 pic.twitter.com/6fiS1Jnqtc— Silverbird Cinemas Ghana (@SilverbirdGhana) January 18, 2024

    In February this year, celebrated actor Mawuli Semevo died after a fire accident.

    The 63-year-old veteran actor’s unfortunate incident happened on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital, where he was receiving treatment after suffering burns.

    On February 8, 2025, Judith Addison of Beyond Burns International, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to providing advocacy and support for burn survivors, reported that Mawuli was in critical condition.

    “Beyond Burns International got an SOS that something unfortunate has happened. We came here today, and veteran actor Mawuli Semevo has been involved in a severe fire accident. I came here to see him, and his life is hanging in the balance,” Judith said in the video report posted on their social media pages.

    According to her, Mawuli was sleeping in his house when it caught fire.

    “He has suffered burns up to 44% of his body. He has respiratory injuries and cannot breathe properly. This is very serious. From his head to his legs. Everywhere caught fire, and he has lost all his hair,” she further stated.

    The report was later corroborated by actors such as Ken Fiati and Edinam Atatsi.

    Mawuli Semevo is known for his immaculate acting skills both on stage and in movies.

    He has played roles in movies such as ‘ Harvest at 17’, ‘A Stab in the Dark’, ‘Escape of Love’, ‘Like Cotton Twines’ and ‘The Good Old Days: The Love of AA.’

    Months ago in Nigeria, renowned Nollywood actor and distinguished academic, Dr. Columbus Irosanga, sadly departed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • “The team that makes the most noise does not win” – Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    “The team that makes the most noise does not win” – Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    Former Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has emphasised that political victories are achieved through careful preparation and clear messaging, rather than by being the loudest voice in the room.

    According to him, the key to winning political contests lies in planning and delivering campaign messages that genuinely connect with voters.

    “Most of the time, the team that makes the most noise does not win. It is the team that has really prepared that wins,” he stated.

    Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu highlighted that former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign message is resonating strongly with the electorate, particularly at the grassroots level.

    He recalled a recent campaign event in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, where Dr Bawumia’s speech reportedly moved several attendees to tears.

    “After we finished speaking, an elderly man sitting a few seats away from me was visibly moved. I also saw another person wiping away tears. When I asked the elderly man what had happened, he told me Dr Bawumia’s speech had made him cry,” the former MP for Suame said on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen show on Thursday, January 22.

    The former MP said such emotional responses reinforced his belief that Dr Bawumia’s message is connecting deeply with the people, and he expressed confidence that the former Vice President would improve on his 2023 performance in the Ashanti Region. He projected support could rise from 63 per cent to around 70 per cent.

    Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu also pointed to the campaign’s meticulous grassroots approach, noting that the team has been evaluating performance constituency by constituency and polling station by polling station.

    “We have been with him across the country. They are doing assessments constituency by constituency, polling station by polling station. They have already toured all the regions twice,” he added.

    Commenting on previous flagbearer polls, Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu said he was surprised at the 37 per cent secured by Kennedy Ohene Agyapong. He attributed that performance to Mr Agyapong’s established influence and party network.

    “The 37 percent Ken got really surprised me. He harvested from the content he had built in the system, and the way he pulled out, with his people following him,” he said, noting that such support may not be easily replicated this time, even with prominent figures backing him.

    The NPP is on a journey of reset, reinforcement, and healing following its historic defeat in the 2024 elections. Dr. Bawumia lost the 2024 presidential election, with John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) securing 6,328,397 valid votes, representing 56.55%, against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.

    https://youtube.com/watch?v=R9GwtixNqXs%3Frel%3D0%26modestbranding%3D1

    Since the beginning of this year, the party has undertaken several reforms to position itself strongly against its main opponent, the NDC, and to recapture power.

    Among these reforms is the abolition of the electoral college in favour of a broader base of delegates. The party has also added 19 new delegate categories and granted amnesty to suspended members.

    The NPP has announced that suspended members have been reinstated, and all charges against those facing the disciplinary committee have been dropped.

    This decision was taken by the National Council during an emergency meeting held on July 25. In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, members were informed that as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all banned members had been given the right to return.

    “This measure reflects the Party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead.

    “I write to inform you that the National Council, at its Emergency Meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a General Amnesty to all Party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.

    The party further urged all relevant bodies, including Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, to reinstate suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles.

    “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” the statement added.

    However, the party clarified that this recall does not apply to members who willfully forfeited their membership. In cases where such individuals wish to return, they are required to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat. Upon acceptance, a two-year ban will be imposed, preventing them from contesting in any internal elections.

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

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

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

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


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


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

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

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


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


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


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

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

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


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


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


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

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


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

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


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


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


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

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

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

  • 14 injured as vehicles collide on Kumasi–Accra road

    14 injured as vehicles collide on Kumasi–Accra road

    A fatal crash involving a stationary tipper truck and a Sprinter bus at Atwedie, near Konongo on the Kumasi–Accra Highway, left at least 14 people severely injured on Saturday, October 25.

    The Sprinter bus, with registration number GR 6626-22, reportedly rammed into the stationary truck, causing the unfortunate incident. Meanwhile, three individuals lost their lives in a fatal crash that occurred on Friday night, October 24, on the Tatale–Zabzugu road in the Northern Region.

    More than ten others were injured in the aftermath of the incident. The victims in the crash were traders returning from the Kukpalgu market. 

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

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

    According to eyewitnesses, Hassan Ayariga’s driver hit the commercial vehicle, causing the V8 to lose control and veer off the road into a gutter.

    Ghana has recorded a series of road accidents this year. Some months ago, an accident at Bechem in the Bono Region claimed the lives of two individuals, including a church leader of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church.

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

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

    The unfortunate incident occurred after a tipper truck veered off its road, crashing into shops around the Dukes Filling Station. According to sources, many other individuals sustained injuries. Reports have it that the tipper truck was overspeeding when it veered off the road.

    “It happened so fast—one moment the road was clear, the next, the truck was crashing into everything in its path,” an eyewitness recounted.

    Following the incident, it is said that emergency services went to the scene to rescue individuals who were trapped. Medical assistance was also provided, according to reports. Per reports, the Police Service has commenced investigations into the accident, with the driver of the tipper truck providing assistance.

    Local officials have reportedly given assurance of aiding the victims of the accident. The deceased were reportedly returning from the church’s annual programme in the Eastern Region.

    Their deaths were confirmed after their bus crashed with an oncoming fuel tanker. All 16 victims were laid to rest in a single large grave on Thursday, July 31, by the Obogu community and church leadership.

    Ghana has reported a surge in the number of fatalities recorded due to road crashes. In the first half of 2025, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) reported one thousand, five hundred and four (1,504) deaths, compared to one thousand, two hundred and thirty-seven (1,237) fatalities reported in the corresponding period in 2024, representing a 21.58 percent increase.

    According to provisional data released by the National Road Safety Authority in collaboration with the Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), a total of 7,289 road crashes were recorded between January and June this year.

    Per the data, a total of twelve thousand, three hundred and fifty-four (12,354) vehicles were involved in the road crashes. Owing to the road accidents, a total number of eight thousand, three hundred (8,300) individuals sustained injuries.

    Also, one thousand, three hundred and one (1,301) pedestrians were knocked down across the country. According to the recent data provided by the National Road Safety Authority, on average, eight (8) lives are lost every day due to road crashes.

    Each day, forty (40) road crashes are recorded, and forty-six (46) individuals sustain injuries. Daily, sixty-nine (69) vehicles and motorcycles are involved in road crashes. To aid in combating road crashes, the National Road Safety Authority has called for stern enforcement of traffic regulations and public education.

    The NRSA has called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and increased public education to help curb the rising number of road accidents across the country.

    The Road Traffic Act 2004, an Act to consolidate and revise the Road Traffic Ordinance, 1952 (No. 55), provides for a more comprehensive regulation of road traffic and road use, to ensure safety on the roads and to provide for related matters.

    A person who drives a motor vehicle dangerously on a road commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction, (a) where (i) a bodily injury does not occur, or (ii) a minor bodily injury does occur, to a person, other than the driver, to a fine not less than one hundred penalty units and not exceeding two hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding nine months or to both the fine and imprisonment.

    (b) Where bodily injury of an aggravated nature occurs to a person, other than the driver, to a minimum fine of two hundred penalty units and not exceeding five hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment of not less than twelve months and not exceeding two years or to both the fine and the imprisonment; or (c) where death occurs, to a term of imprisonment for a term of not less than three years.

    (d) Where there is damage to state property, to a fine of not less than one hundred penalty units and payment for the damage caused in an amount determined by the Court.

    The Court may, on the conviction of a person under subsection (1), (a) order the payment of appropriate compensation to an injured person or to the estate of that person, or (b) order the withdrawal of the licence for a period of not less than three years and not more than five years.

    A person who drives a motor vehicle on a road without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two thousand penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding five years or to both the fine and the imprisonment.

    A person commits an offence if without lawful authority or reasonable excuse, that person, (a) causes anything to be on or over a road, (b) interferes with a motor vehicle, trailer or cycle, or (c) interferes, directly or indirectly, with traffic equipment, where that it would be obvious to a reasonable person that to do so would be dangerous.

    A person who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two hundred and fifty penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding twelve months or to both the fine and the imprisonment.

  • Obrafour lauds Sarkodie’s unmatched discipline and respect for senior artists

    Obrafour lauds Sarkodie’s unmatched discipline and respect for senior artists

    Ghanaian Rapper Obrafour has lauded Sarkodie for his respectful conduct towards his seniors in the music industry.

    “It is unmatched, I’ve not seen some before. I am not saying this to praise him, but I love him for his work rate. However, I don’t know if it is like that till date. When I met him, he used to record a song a day and that is why he has a massive catalogue.”

    “He is very respectful, and that is a trait I am yet to see in other colleagues of his,” he told Code Micky.

    Sarkodie thrilled fans with a unique, exciting entry at his just-ended Rapperholic concert in Kumasi over the weekend.

    Despite the delays in the commencement time of the concert, his legendary entrance to the stage melted any possible disappointment or anger.

    It began with a poetic prelude where the poet praised Sarkodie as one whose glory cannot be boxed or hidden, a reference to his kingship, his heritage as the son of the Ashanti Kingdom, highlighting his well-known title “Landlord”, positioning not just a rapper, but a voice of heritage.

    The speaker invoked the spirit of Kumasi and the Ashanti Kingdom, framing Sarkodie’s homecoming as a symbolic return to the source of his strength. One of the lines of the poet was her praise for Sarkodie as one who “ does not just rhyme, but remembers. He does not just perform, he preserves,” she delivered her rich culture and praise-loaded poem for Sarkodie, with the Ashanti Flag projected on the huge LED screens behind her.

    As the poem ended, Sarkodie’s nickname “Obidi” blazed across the stage in flaming letters, followed by a glowing crown that hovered above, symbolising his reign in Ghanaian rap.

    Following the grand display before the ‘landlord’s’ appearance on stage, it began to rain; however, the downpour didn’t dampen the fans’ energy, and they stayed put until Sarkodie appeared.

    He finally showed, opening the stage with his “Original” song in which he addresses critics, cementing his reputation as a pioneer and not a product of hype. His journey through the rap journey with a line in the song which says, “I didn’t come to fit in, I came to stand out.”

    He was surprised on stage by dancehall artist Shatta Wale, whose appearance was welcomed with loud and explosive cheers by fans. The duo performed their decade-old song “Megye Wo Girl”.

    Sarkodie playfully shoved Shatta Wale as he joined him on stage, and their chemistry was electrifying, making it a highlight of the night.

    Then followed Sarkodie’s performance with legendary rapper Obrafour. The landlord had to pause the high-energy flow to introduce Obrafour, calling him “the reason I rap”. As a sign of respect, he knelt before Obrafour on stage, a deeply emotional moment that drew cheers and chants of “legend, legend!” from the crowd. They performed a remix of “Oye Ohene”.

    Kweku Flick joined Sarkodie on stage while they performed their song “Yɛbɛyɛ Fine”, which translates to “We’ll be fine” in Twi. They both moved in sync with dancers dressed in streetwear fused with traditional prints.

    The current Kumasi star, King Paluta, thrilled fans with their “Africa We Dey” song. Sarkodie opened with a verse on unity and struggle, then passed the mic to Paluta, who unleashed rapid-fire Twi bars.

    Other artists that showed up at the concert were Medikal, who did a solo performance marked with a playful moment chasing Shatta Wale on stage.

    Efya, Gyakie, Kofi Kinaata, Olive The Boy, Donzy, Oseikrom SikaniJay Bahd, Ypee, Beeztrap KOTM, Skyface SDW, Kwesi Amewuga, Lalid, Kofi Jamar, among other acts. Some fans were also invited on stage to freestyle live.

    About Rapperholic 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    When did Rapperholic start

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

    Sarkodie visits Otumfuor

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

    “They don’t allow me to go out often, but this one, I would like to attend and watch the event myself.”

    Sarkordie was there with his team to officially inform the King about the upcoming concert and also seek his blessings and consent.

  • Playback: Asantehemaa goes home

    Playback: Asantehemaa goes home

    The final funeral rite for the Asntehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, is currently taking place at the Manhyia Palace in the Ashanti Region.

    Shops, schools, banks, markets, and offices in Kumasi have been closed today, Thursday September 18, for the final funeral rites of the Queen Mother.

    In the same vein, residents have been directed to remain indoors on Thursday evening as the procession moves from Bantama to Breman.

    Watch the livestream below:

    Addressing the media, the funeral committee announced that the directive is part of tradition to honor the Queen Mother.

    “On Thursday, as we bid a final farewell to the Queen Mother, we wish to give this important notice. The procession will move from Bantama to Breman, and we humbly ask everyone to remain indoors in the evening. In the past, when events involving the King took place, people would stand in respect even in the afternoon. In this case, since it will be held in the evening, we ask simply that you stay in your homes.”

    “With utmost humility, we remind all that Thursday is the funeral of the Asantehemaa. On that day, shops are to remain closed. Schools, banks, and offices will also be closed in observance of the occasion,” the committee announced at a press briefing.

    Here are some pictures below:

    Article image 1
    Article image 2

    The funeral rites for the Queen Mother began on Monday, September 15, and continued through Wednesday, and will be concluded today, Thursday, September 18.

    Article image 3

    Manhyia Palace in Kumasi has received Ghanaian sympathizers following the passing of Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.

    Article image 4

    On Monday, September 15, religious groups, political parties, and corporate bodies paid their respects. The judiciary, security agencies, and financial institutions followed the next day.

    Article image 5

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei TuTu II received traditional leaders, ministers of state, diplomats, parliamentarians, and MMDCEs.

    A one-week observation was held at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the late Queen Mother on August 21. It followed a display of traditional Asante customs, with chiefs, queen mothers, and government officials.

    Article image 6

    On Wednesday August 13, the Archbishop of Kumasi, Most Rev. Gabriel Justice Anokye, led a delegation to the Manhyia Palace to pray for the Asantehene and to express their condolences to the King, after the demise of the Asantehemaa.

    Article image 7

    They also visited the late Ohemaa’s court to formally convey their sympathies to the family and offer prayers as well.

    Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom II passed away at age 98 as the 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom.

    Her passing was announced on August 11 at an emergency sitting of the Asanteman Traditional Council, which was presided over by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    Article image 8

  • Asantehemaa’s 4-day burial begins today; shops, schools, and markets to be closed on Thursday

    Asantehemaa’s 4-day burial begins today; shops, schools, and markets to be closed on Thursday

    The final funeral rites for the late Asantehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, commence today, Monday, September 15, in Kumasi and will span four days, climaxing on Thursday, September 18.

    The funeral committee has announced that as part of tradition to honor the Queen Mother, residents are to remain indoors on Thursday evening when the procession moves from Bantama to Breman. Shops, schools, banks, markets, and offices will also shut down for the day.

    “On Thursday, as we bid a final farewell to the Queen Mother, we wish to give this important notice. The procession will move from Bantama to Breman, and we humbly ask everyone to remain indoors in the evening. In the past, when events involving the King took place, people would stand in respect even in the afternoon. In this case, since it will be held in the evening, we ask simply that you stay in your homes.”

    “With utmost humility, we remind all that Thursday is the funeral of the Asantehemaa. On that day, shops are to remain closed. Schools, banks, and offices will also be closed in observance of the occasion,” the committee announced at a press briefing.

    The committee also outlined the schedule for paying homage. Religious groups, political parties, and corporate bodies are expected to pay their respects on Monday; the judiciary, security agencies, and financial institutions on Tuesday; traditional leaders, ministers of state, diplomats, parliamentarians, and MMDCEs on Wednesday; and the President, former Presidents, and former Vice Presidents on Thursday.

    Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III’s passing has drawn nationwide mourning and reflection on her reign as Queen Mother of Asanteman.

    She passed away at age 98 occupying her position as the 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom,

    She died at nearly 100 years old. Her passing was announced on August 11 at an emergency sitting of the Asanteman Traditional Council, which was presided over by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    On August 21, a one-week observation was held at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the late Queen Mother.

    It followed a display of traditional Asante customs, with chiefs, queen mothers, and government officials.

    On Wednesday August 13, the Archbishop of Kumasi, Most Rev. Gabriel Justice Anokye, led a delegation to the Manhyia Palace to pray for the Asantehene and to express their condolences to the King, after the demise of the Asantehemaa.

    They also visited the late Ohemaa’s court to formally convey their sympathies to the family and offer prayers as well.

    Profile of Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • I want my bag and money  – Vanessa Nicole to Africa Airline over poor services

    I want my bag and money – Vanessa Nicole to Africa Airline over poor services

    Ghanaian actress Vanessa Nicole has blasted Africa World Airlines after a flight and luggage mix-up caused her to miss the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

    In a video that has since gone viral, Nicole demanded the return of her missing luggage and a refund, stating, “how could I possibly be here in Accra while my bag is in Kumasi?”

    “This is unacceptable! I don’t care how you resolve it or where you have to fetch it from – I need my bag back and I want my money,” she added.

    Nicole’s confrontation with airline staff followed a more than six-hour delay, which led to her missing the awards ceremony entirely.

    Upon landing in Accra, she discovered that her luggage had mistakenly been sent to Kumasi, further compounding her frustration.

    The actress, known for her past relationship with comic actor Funny Face, expressed outrage at what she described as poor treatment of passengers and a lack of communication from the airline.

    “I’m not willing to wait a week for this; I need it handled immediately!,” she added during the heated encounter.

    Africa Airlines has yet to respond to the matter.

    Watch the video below:

  • Court remands 7 soldiers accused of killing civilians in Kumasi

    Court remands 7 soldiers accused of killing civilians in Kumasi

    The Suame District Court has remanded seven military officers and a civilian employee from the 4th Infantry Battalion (4Bn) into custody over their alleged involvement in the assault and subsequent death of two civilians.

    The accused, facing charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder, include Lieutenant Selim Nikoi Neequaye, Lieutenant Emmanuel Abrokwa, Lieutenant Daniel Osae, Sergeant Kumi Edmond, Lance Corporal Ameyaw Desmond, Private Ampah Felix, Private Gyekye, and Thomas Adjei Mensah, a civilian employee.

    According to prosecution, the officers allegedly arrested and assaulted three civilians — Kwame Adu, popularly known as Ogee, Kwabena Sarfo, and Christian Obiri Yeboah, also called Kofi Yesu — on March 28, 2025. The men were reportedly rounded up by uniformed military officers at Bantama in Kumasi over accusations of stealing a mobile phone belonging to another civilian.

    The arrested individuals were taken to the 4Bn barracks, where the alleged assaults occurred. Subsequently, the bodies of two of the victims were discovered at Danyame, a suburb of Kumasi, sparking public outrage and demands for justice.

    The military officers and the civilian worker have been formally charged and will remain in custody as investigations continue. The case has been adjourned to allow for further investigations.

    The incident has raised fresh concerns about human rights abuses and the need for accountability within Ghana’s security agencies.

  • Two people killed, others injured in Kumasi school bus accident

    Two people killed, others injured in Kumasi school bus accident

    Two people have died in Patasi, Kumasi, after a school bus lost control and ran into them in front of a storey building.

    The victims were identified as 74-year-old Maame Serwaa and a man named Alfred, believed to be in his late 40s. A third person was seriously injured and is currently receiving treatment at the Suntreso Government Hospital.

    Eyewitnesses said the victims were standing and talking near the building when the bus veered off the road and hit them. The driver said his brakes failed, which caused him to lose control of the vehicle.

    The accident also damaged nearby property. Police and fire service personnel had to step in to rescue the victims who were trapped under the bus.

    The driver is currently assisting the police as investigations continue.

  • Interior Minister visits agencies under his outfit to boost peace and security in Kumasi

    Interior Minister visits agencies under his outfit to boost peace and security in Kumasi

    Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the Minister for the Interior, has visited various agencies under his ministry in Kumasi as part of efforts to strengthen peace and security in the region.

    This move is part of his broader initiative to engage with stakeholders, foster national unity, and ensure the well-being of all Ghanaians.

    The Minister’s visit was aimed at gaining firsthand insight into the operations of the agencies, sharing his plans with them, and motivating them to continue their vital work in maintaining peace and security across the country.

    Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace and security throughout Ghana, stating his determination to work closely with the agencies to prevent unchecked crime and support security services in upholding law and order, safeguarding lives, and protecting property.

    He further assured the agencies of his dedication to addressing their concerns and challenges so that they could effectively and efficiently perform their duties.

    In response, the agencies expressed their gratitude to the Minister for the visit, his commitment to their operations, and his clear plans for enhancing their work. They pledged to fully support him in achieving the objectives he outlined.

    The agencies visited by Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak included the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Prisons Service, Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Narcotics Control Commission, National Disaster Management Organization, National Peace Council, Gaming Commission of Ghana, and the National Identification Authority.

    Through engaging with these agencies and stakeholders, the Minister aims to create a safer, healthier, and more secure environment for all Ghanaians.

  • Police probe Adventist SHS shooting incident in Kumasi

    Police probe Adventist SHS shooting incident in Kumasi

    The Ashanti Regional Police Command has launched an investigation into a shooting incident that took place at Adventist Senior High School in Kumasi on Friday.

    According to a statement from the Command, initial findings indicate that a 16-year-old second-year student brought a locally made pistol, loaded with a single BB ammunition, to school. The student reportedly intended to show the firearm to a classmate but accidentally discharged it, injuring another student.

    The injured student was promptly taken to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, where he received treatment and is now reported to be in stable condition.

    “The juvenile suspect has been arrested, and the empty cartridge has been recovered and retained as evidence. During questioning, the suspect stated that he took the weapon from his father’s bedroom without his father’s knowledge,” the police statement revealed.

    Authorities are now focusing efforts on locating and arresting the student’s father to assist with the ongoing investigation.

  • 7 soldiers under investigation for alleged assault in Kumasi

    7 soldiers under investigation for alleged assault in Kumasi

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has initiated an inquiry into an alleged incident of assault involving seven military personnel in Kumasi on March 28, 2025.

    A statement from the Military High Command revealed that the incident involved three officers and four soldiers, who are accused of detaining and attacking three people suspected of stealing a mobile phone. The victims reportedly sustained various injuries during the altercation.

    To investigate the matter, both the Military Police and the Ashanti Regional Police CID have joined forces to determine the facts surrounding the event.

    As the investigation progresses, the military personnel involved have been placed under detention.

    “The Military High Command wishes to assure all that anyone found culpable would be dealt with according to the law,” the statement emphasized, underlining the military’s commitment to accountability and maintaining proper conduct.

    Additionally, the High Command urged the public to remain patient and allow the investigation to proceed without interference.

    “We also urge the families and friends of the victims to remain calm and await the outcome of the investigations,” the statement advised.

    This incident has raised growing concerns over the actions of security personnel and their handling of civilian situations.

  • 5 dead in Sunyani-Kumasi highway crash

    5 dead in Sunyani-Kumasi highway crash

    A tragic accident on the Sunyani-Kumasi highway in the early hours of Wednesday, March 26, has claimed five lives.

    The crash involved a commercial KIA truck and a Toyota RAV4 near the Fire Academy and Training School (FATS).

    Emergency responders from the Bechem Fire Command arrived at the scene shortly after the incident, discovering seven victims, four of whom were trapped in the mangled vehicles. A reinforcement team from Duayaw-Nkwanta later joined the operation, working tirelessly to extricate the victims from the wreckage.

    Four individuals were found lifeless at the scene, while three others, sustaining various degrees of injuries, were rushed to Saint John’s of God Hospital and Bechem Government Hospital. Unfortunately, one of the injured victims succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment, raising the death toll to five.

    Authorities are yet to determine the cause of the accident as investigations continue.

  • KATH suspends surgeries as water shortage worsens

    KATH suspends surgeries as water shortage worsens

    Doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have halted all surgical procedures indefinitely due to a severe water shortage affecting the facility for over a week.

    In a memo dated March 25, 2025, the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) informed hospital management of their decision, stressing that it was taken in the interest of patient safety.

    “This memo is to formally inform management of the decision taken by the Orthopaedic and Emergency Directorate to temporarily halt the admission of new patients until the availability of water is restored,” the statement said.

    The doctors highlighted that the prolonged water shortage has significantly disrupted healthcare services, affecting hygiene, surgical operations, and overall patient care.

    “Despite efforts to manage the situation, the current lack of water has reached a critical point, compromising both patient safety and healthcare delivery,” the memo warned.

    Dr. Michael Leat, chairman of KADA, acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the suspension but assured that medical staff would continue attending to existing patients.

    “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly request management’s urgent intervention to address the water crisis. The directorates will continue to manage existing patients to the best of our ability while prioritizing safety and hygiene,” he said.

    KADA further urged management to explore alternative water sources and keep the medical staff updated on efforts to resolve the crisis.

    Meanwhile, KATH’s management revealed that the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has yet to restore the hospital’s water supply after cutting service last week.

    “We are at the moment depending on alternative sources which have proven inadequate due to the huge volumes of water required for our operations daily.

    “At the moment, apart from KATH’s own sources, the GNFS, KMA, and the GWCL are assisting with alternative supplies, but they are insufficient to meet our operational needs. We are in constant touch with the Regional office of the GWCL to expedite the repair works which occasioned the cessation of water supply to the hospital,” the Public Relations Directorate explained.

  • Adum fire: Victims receive GHS200K, 1,000 bags of cement from Bawumia

    Adum fire: Victims receive GHS200K, 1,000 bags of cement from Bawumia

    Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has stepped in to support traders affected by the devastating fire at Adum, Kumasi, with a donation of GH¢200,000 and 1,000 bags of cement to assist in rebuilding their businesses.

    The fire, which broke out on Friday, March 24, tore through the busy commercial hub, destroying numerous shops and stalls and resulting in losses worth millions of Ghana cedis.

    On Tuesday, March 25, Dr. Bawumia visited the affected area, offering his condolences to the traders and urging both individuals and private businesses to provide assistance.

    “I am donating GH¢200,000 and 1,000 bags to the victims, and I urge private individuals to also support the traders in getting their livelihoods back,” he stated.

    The devastating fire, erupted at dawn on Friday, displaced over 5,000 traders and shop owners, leaving many counting their losses.

    Firefighters battled tirelessly to contain the flames, with the GNFS commending their efforts in a statement issued on Sunday.

  • Mahama arrives at Adum market after fire outbreak

    Mahama arrives at Adum market after fire outbreak

    President John Dramani Mahama has arrived at the Adum Market in Kumasi following a devastating fire outbreak that has destroyed several shops and livelihoods.

    The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, March 21, caused widespread damage, leaving traders counting their losses.

    During his visit, Mahama expressed his sympathies to the affected traders, describing the situation as unfortunate. He assured the victims that the government would take necessary steps to support them through the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).

    https://twitter.com/tv3_ghana/status/1903089675432059006

    Meanwhile, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has also visited the market to assess the extent of the damage. He is currently receiving briefings from national security operatives on the situation.

    The fire, which started in the early hours of the morning, quickly spread across sections of the market, consuming shops and properties. Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) have been battling the blaze for hours, deploying six fire trucks in an attempt to bring the situation under control.

    However, challenges such as congestion and narrow access routes have made firefighting efforts difficult.

    Many of the affected shops sold second-hand clothes and housed seamstresses and watch repairers, with some containing highly flammable materials, further complicating efforts to douse the flames.

    This tragic incident comes at a time when the GNFS has deployed a specialized task force across the country to tackle the increasing occurrences of market fires.

    The initiative includes fire patrol teams monitoring major markets, stationed personnel providing fire coverage from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, and safety education programs to enhance preparedness and response.

    Chief Fire Officer Julius A. Kuunuor emphasized the importance of vigilance, stating that routine inspections and enforcement of safety regulations will be intensified to prevent similar incidents in the future.

    Authorities are yet to determine the exact cause of the fire, but investigations are ongoing to establish the extent of damage and potential factors that contributed to the disaster.

  • Commercial bus rams into traders in Kumasi; one dead, 3 in critical condition

    Commercial bus rams into traders in Kumasi; one dead, 3 in critical condition

    Four traders have been involved in a gruesome accident after a commercial bus, popularly known as a trotro, lost control and plowed into them at the Dr. Mensah Station in Kumasi.

    The accident, which occurred on Tuesday, March 18, was reportedly caused by brake failure, sending the vehicle careening off the road and into a cluster of roadside stalls.

    According to reports, the life of one trader has been lost, while three others remain in critical condition.

    Eyewitnesses described a terrifying scene as pedestrians scrambled for safety while the bus barreled through the busy trading area. Some bystanders rushed to rescue the injured before emergency responders arrived.

    The victims sustained severe injuries and were quickly transported to the Manhyia Government Hospital, where medical staff are working to stabilize the survivors.

  • A/R: Fire kills nurse and her three children at Gyinyase

    A/R: Fire kills nurse and her three children at Gyinyase

    A fire outbreak has taken the lives of a nurse at Kumasi South Hospital, Linda Agyemang, and her three children at Gyinyase in the Asokwa Municipality of the Ashanti Region.

    Despite frantic efforts by neighbors and bystanders to save them, the family remained trapped inside their three-bedroom home as the intense flames made entry impossible.

    The blaze erupted in the early hours of Saturday, leaving the community in distress. Firefighters responded swiftly after being alerted and managed to douse the fire, but the victims were found in the bathroom, burned beyond recognition.

    Three other occupants of the house were successfully rescued and are currently receiving treatment at Kumasi South Hospital.

    The charred remains of the deceased have been conveyed to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for preservation, while authorities have commenced investigations to determine the cause of the fire.

    Ashanti Regional Fire Service PRO, DO II Peter Addai, confirmed the heartbreaking incident.

    “At 44: 08 – 44: 32At 4:36 AM on 8 February 2025, we received a distress call reporting a fire at Gyinyase near Tubi hotel. We quickly dispatched our fire tenders to attend to the fire, when we got there the fire was wild alright so we called for a second attendant to help. We lost four people in that fire but the cause of the fire is still under investigation”

  • Kwadaso Wood Market destroyed by fire for the second time in January

    Kwadaso Wood Market destroyed by fire for the second time in January

    The Kwadaso Wood Market in Kumasi, renowned for its bustling timber and wood trade, has once again been ravaged by a massive fire, marking the second such incident within two weeks.

    The latest blaze ignited on the evening of Sunday, January 19, causing significant damage and compounding the struggles of vendors still recovering from the first fire.

    Eyewitnesses and video footage from the scene depict a frantic and heartbreaking scenario as fire consumed numerous shops and stalls, destroying everything in its path. Traders are seen desperately attempting to rescue their merchandise while calling for help.

    While the cause of the fire remains unclear, the highly flammable materials found throughout the market, including timber, sawdust, and chemicals used in wood processing, contributed to the rapid spread of the flames. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but the scale of the fire posed considerable challenges for firefighters in controlling it.

    This devastating incident follows an earlier fire on January 4, which also destroyed parts of the market, leaving traders devastated by the loss of their goods and equipment.

    Following the first blaze, discussions were initiated by market authorities and local officials to implement preventive measures, including the installation of fire hydrants, frequent safety checks, and creating fire-resistant zones within the market.

    However, these initiatives were still in the planning phase when the second fire broke out, highlighting the urgent need for more immediate action.

  • Ashanti Region: Fire destroys dozens of homes in Nima-Moke

    Ashanti Region: Fire destroys dozens of homes in Nima-Moke

    A massive fire has left many residents of Nima-Moke, a slum in the Asokore Mampong Municipality of the Ashanti Region, homeless.

    The blaze, which erupted around 4:30 p.m., consumed over 50 wooden structures, along with the belongings of the residents.

    The fire spread rapidly, fueled by the highly flammable materials in the area. Nima-Moke is home to numerous migrants from northern Ghana who have moved south in search of better prospects.

    According to witnesses, most of the residents were at the market in Kumasi when the fire broke out, preventing them from saving their possessions. Families, including children, are now displaced and have no immediate place to stay.

    It is believed that the fire started in one of the homes and quickly spread through the tightly packed community. Delays in contacting firefighting services only worsened the situation.

    This devastating event comes just a few years after a similar fire in 2020, which also caused widespread destruction and left many residents without shelter.

  •  Kwadaso wood market in Kumasi destroyed by fire

     Kwadaso wood market in Kumasi destroyed by fire

    A devastating fire has destroyed the Kwadaso wood market in Kumasi, Ghana, leaving traders and residents grappling with significant losses.

    The fire broke out in the early hours of Saturday, January 4, rapidly engulfing stacks of timber, sawmills, and other valuable property, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

    Eyewitnesses described the heartbreaking scene as traders and workers watched helplessly while their livelihoods were consumed by the flames. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded promptly, deploying firefighting personnel to the market. Using advanced firefighting equipment and techniques, the team was able to prevent the fire from spreading to surrounding areas, though the damage within the market was severe.

    The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with authorities working to determine its origin. Traders and residents are anxiously awaiting answers as they assess the extent of the damage.

    This tragedy follows closely on the heels of another major fire at the Kantamanto Market in Accra, underscoring growing concerns about fire safety in densely packed commercial districts. The Kwadaso blaze marks the second major market fire in Ghana within just the first few days of 2025.

    Authorities are urging market operators to prioritize fire safety measures to mitigate the risks of future fires, as affected traders begin the arduous process of rebuilding their businesses.

  • Even if it takes 100 years, NPP will return to power – Prophet Kusi Appiah

    Even if it takes 100 years, NPP will return to power – Prophet Kusi Appiah

    The Warrior-Prophet and head of the Nyametease Ampa Prayer Ministry in Kumasi, Prophet Paul Kusi Appiah, has boldly declared that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will regain power even if it takes a century.

    Speaking on Wontumi Radio he pledged to engage in continuous fasting and prayer, vowing to work towards bringing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) back to power following their loss to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    “Even if it takes 100 years, NPP will return to power. Things will turn around,” he added.

    Prophet Paul Kusi Appiah, drawing on biblical stories, likened their upcoming spiritual efforts to the actions of Esther and Mordecai, assuring that divine help would eventually back their mission.

    He further drew a vivid comparison, recalling the story of witches who fasted to bring harm to Apostle Paul, underlining the power of their prayer and fasting.

    “We are going to do the same to redeem our image and the image of God,” he added.

    This new declaration follows a previous prophecy that created much anticipation before the elections.

    Prophet Kusi Appiah had strongly asserted that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia would win the 2024 elections, describing his vision as one that was divinely ordained and unchangeable.

    “Nothing can change what God has planned in the spiritual realm. My prophecy will surely come to pass,” he proclaimed with confidence.

    Adding to the specificity of his vision, he revealed, “I have even seen the attire that the Vice President and his potential vice, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly called NAPO, will wear on their inauguration day on January 7, 2025.”

    The prophecy took an unexpected turn when Jean Mensa, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, declared on December 9 that John Mahama of the NDC had won the election with 6,328,397 votes.

    This result led to widespread questioning of Prophet Kusi Appiah’s earlier predictions, causing a stir among both his supporters and critics.

    In light of the outcome, Prophet Kusi Appiah insists that the situation is not a failure of prophecy but rather a divine decision to protect the peace and stability of the nation.

    “God saw that if the NPP had won the 2024 elections, there would have been war. If they like, they should go and find out,” he asserted.

  • Afua Asantewaa’s world record Sing-a-thon attempt in Kumasi begins today

    Afua Asantewaa’s world record Sing-a-thon attempt in Kumasi begins today

    Afua Asantewaa has started her second try to set the world record for the longest singing marathon by an individual.

    Her attempt kicked off on the morning of December 21 at Heroes’ Park in Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi.

    Asantewaa plans to sing only Ghanaian songs during her world-record attempt.

    In a post on Facebook, she expressed how proud she feels to be Ghanaian and African as she takes this “extraordinary giant step.”

    This attempt comes after her first try in December 2023, when she was unable to break the record of 105 hours held by India’s Sunil Waghmare.

  • NDC locates ‘stolen’ fertilizers for farmers in Kumasi

    NDC locates ‘stolen’ fertilizers for farmers in Kumasi

    A stash of government fertilizers meant for farmers has been uncovered in a two-storey building at Sokoban New Site in Kumasi.

    This operation was led by Joseph Yamin as part of efforts to retrieve misappropriated state resources in the Ashanti Region.

    The discovery has sparked demands for transparency and further investigation from Joseph Yamin, who serves as the National Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    In an interview with GHOne News’ Ashanti regional correspondent, Isaac Justice Bediako, Yamin claimed that the fertilizers, which were part of government programs to support farmers, appeared to have been stockpiled and potentially misused for personal profit.

    “This is a serious issue. These fertilizers are supposed to be distributed to farmers to improve agricultural productivity, but here we are with evidence that they’ve been hidden in a private warehouse. The implications are worrying,” he said.

    Mr Yamin voiced strong concerns about the persistent mishandling of resources under the present government, urging swift action to address these systemic issues.

    He accused the incident of being part of a larger pattern of corruption, asserting that such acts of resource misappropriation are common. Yamin further alleged that these schemes often favor individuals with political connections, highlighting a troubling exploitation of public assets for personal benefit.

    “This isn’t the first time we have heard about government resources being misappropriated. We need to ask ourselves: Who owns this building? Who authorized the storage of these fertilizers here? And how long has this been going on?” he questioned.

  • Traders ‘fight’ Kumasi Mayor over alleged directive to close Kejetia Market on Dec 7

    Traders ‘fight’ Kumasi Mayor over alleged directive to close Kejetia Market on Dec 7

    The Kumasi Kejetia Queen Mothers Association has strongly opposed an alleged directive from the Kumasi Mayor, Samuel Pyne, to close the Kejetia Market on election day, December 7, 2024.

    In a statement, the Queen Mothers revealed that the closure was initially suggested by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) running mate, during a meeting with them at the Kumasi Culture Centre. They, however, “vehemently rejected” the proposal during the meeting.

    Despite their stance, they claim that the market management has been instructed to proceed with the closure. “We urge the market management to reconsider this decision, considering its detrimental effects on our businesses, especially given the current economic situation and the fact that Friday, December 6, 2024, is a holiday,” the Queen Mothers emphasized.

    The association described the decision as harmful to traders, many of whom rely on the market for daily income.

    “As the Market Queen Mothers, we stand against this decision and will fiercely resist any attempt to shut down the market,” they added.

    The Queen Mothers have called on the market management to prioritize the welfare of traders and rescind the directive, urging authorities to consider the implications for businesses during the already challenging economic climate.

  • Middle-aged women suspected of pickpocketing nabbed at Kejetia

    Middle-aged women suspected of pickpocketing nabbed at Kejetia

    Traders at Kejetia in Kumasi have caught three suspected pickpockets, all middle-aged women believed to be part of a larger criminal network operating in the area.

    A video circulating on the social media platform X shows the suspects handcuffed inside a shop, where one of them is being physically assaulted by a man.

    Details about the amount stolen remain unclear. However, one victim, whose money was reportedly retrieved from the suspects, expressed her frustration”While I walk through the scorching sun to buy stuff, you come and steal from me. I am the one whose money they stole. That is the money that has been retrieved from them by the man. Had it not been for my money they stole, they wouldn’t have been arrested.”

    Female pickpockets like these, known for their cunning methods, are a rarity, making this incident particularly striking.

  • Toy gun trend: Guns aren’t supposed to be played with; they are dangerous – Ras Kuuku warns

    Toy gun trend: Guns aren’t supposed to be played with; they are dangerous – Ras Kuuku warns

    Ghanaian dancehall musician Ras Kuuku has waded into the recent ongoing social media ‘toy gun challenge’ in Kumasi, labelling it as ‘dangerous.’

    The ‘toy gun trend’ began in the Ashanti Region, Kumasi, among young people who gathered in public to stage playful shootouts with water guns and plastic toy guns in late October.

    It later gained popularity on social media; some celebrities like Medikal and Kofi Mole, including Dancegod Llyod, joined the challenge.

    However, reggae and dancehall artist Ras Kuuku has condemned the trend, citing the danger associated with playing with guns, whether real or fake.

    Speaking in an interview on 3FM on November 26, 2024, he stated that this new trend would be exploited by some unscrupulous individuals to stage crimes.

    He urged those involved to abandon the trend.

    “You see that gun challenge going on? I want people to know they shouldn’t play with it, and nobody should support that. Anything that involves guns must be treated with great caution. That’s why our forefathers said, ‘The inside of a gun is dark.’” Ras Kuuku stated.

    Given the dangers associated with guns, the Ghana Police Service, in a swift response, has arrested about 26 individuals in connection with toy gun challenges.

    Reports indicate that several individuals were apprehended for displaying and carelessly firing toy guns in public, creating fear and panic.

    The police, after making the arrests, have reassured the public of their dedication to upholding peace and security across the country.

    The suspects are currently cooperating with police investigations and are expected to be prosecuted in court soon.

  • Kumasi youth replace toy guns with vuvuzelas and balloons after Police crackdown

    Kumasi youth replace toy guns with vuvuzelas and balloons after Police crackdown

    Youth in Kumasi have swapped toy guns for vuvuzelas and balloons following a police crackdown that led to the arrest of 26 individuals for public disturbances involving toy weapons.

    The recent trend in the Ashanti Region saw young people turning streets, malls, and neighborhoods into mock battlegrounds, engaging in dramatic toy gun battles that sometimes mimicked robbery scenarios. Videos circulating on X (formerly Twitter) showed participants using toy guns fitted with firecrackers, adding a theatrical flair to the activities.

    The Ghana Police Service stepped in, arresting participants for breaching public peace. The suspects are currently assisting with investigations, and a quantity of toy guns has been confiscated. The arrested individuals will be arraigned in court, while special operations continue to apprehend others involved in similar acts.

    To avoid arrest, the youth have pivoted to using vuvuzelas and balloons in their street activities. However, the shift has sparked fresh concerns, with many criticizing the loud and disruptive noise caused by the vuvuzelas as a new form of nuisance.

    The police have cautioned the public, reminding them that acts causing breaches of the peace contravene Section 207 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). Investigations remain ongoing to address the situation and maintain order.

    https://twitter.com/eddie_wrt/status/1861518579146899494

  • Kumasi youth battling with ‘toy guns’ on the streets sparks concerns

    Kumasi youth battling with ‘toy guns’ on the streets sparks concerns

    Some youth in Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region, have started a trend of engaging in battles with toy guns on the streets.

    Several videos circulating on X (formerly Twitter) show groups clashing in what appears to be playful combat, though the reasons behind these battles remain unclear.

    The trend seems to be purely for fun, with no ill intentions reported so far even though the youth some times imitate a robbery incident. Some of these toy guns are equipped with firecrackers that light up when fired, adding to the spectacle.

    The battles occur during the day on busy streets, malls and at night. In one viral video, a concerned police officer arrived at the scene to investigate the commotion, only to discover a group of youth armed with toy guns.

    While the trend appears harmless, some citizens are worried that it could be exploited by individuals with malicious intentions. They are calling on security authorities to intervene before the situation escalates.

    An X user commented, “This is supposed to be a toy gun for kids around 5 years to at least 10 or 12 years, but why are all these grownups using this for play? @GhPoliceService should do something about this before people take advantage of this to start robbing people since we are heading to the polls.”

    https://twitter.com/eddie_wrt/status/1859849078710104136

    https://twitter.com/I_Am_Winter/status/1859896095398339014

  • Mahama promises to build a second National Theatre in Kumasi if he wins power

    Mahama promises to build a second National Theatre in Kumasi if he wins power

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama has noted that when voted into power in the December 7 elections, he would build a second National Theatre in Kumasi.

    In a video shared by GHOne TV on November 12, 2024, Mahama indicated that the Kumasi theatre is in a poor state, hence his decision to build a new one because it is part of their campaign manifesto.

    “Since the Chinese built the national film theatre during the Rawlings administration, there has not been a major facelift, so you can clearly see that the place is in a poor state. Even when people want to make use of the place, the poor stature of the film theatre makes it difficult for them,” he said.

    Mahama further described Kumasi as the centre of arts and culture in Ghana.

    “If you look at our 2020 manifesto, we promised to build a theatre when voted into power, and we included it in our 2024 manifesto as well because Kumasi is the centre of our arts and culture in this country,” he added.

  • Tiktoker thrilled to spot Despite cruising his cybertruck in Adum, Kumasi

    Tiktoker thrilled to spot Despite cruising his cybertruck in Adum, Kumasi

    Ghanaian TikToker Osanju was thrilled to spot renowned business mogul Dr. Osei Kwame Despite cruising through Kumasi in his Cybertruck.

    In the brief video, the Ghanaian TikToker beamed with excitement, snapping a selfie as Despite’s Cybertruck approached.

    Many onlookers, captivated by the impressive Cybertruck, chased after it, snapping photos and recording videos on their phones.

    In the video’s caption, Osanju shared that the high-end vehicle, priced from $94,490 (GH¢1,558,308.76), is his dream car.

    Watch the video below:

  • Video: Anyone born and raised in Kumasi is a scammer – Kumawood’s Big Akwes

    Video: Anyone born and raised in Kumasi is a scammer – Kumawood’s Big Akwes

    Ghanaian Kumawood actor Big Akwes has sparked controversy with remarks about life in Kumasi, alleging that everyone born and raised in the city is involved in scamming.

    In an interview on Angel TV, he claimed that many people in Kumasi, from leaders to everyday citizens, including pastors, engage in fraudulent activities, suggesting that it’s a widespread way of life in the city.

    “Anyone born and grown up in Kumasi is a scammer; I insist on what I say. I’m saying that everyone, from the leadership to the lowest person, including pastors, are scammers.

    Because if you check the young boys at Kejetia, can’t you see what they do to people’s phones?… What I am saying doesn’t have anything to do with the TV station,” he asserted.

    In the same interview, Big Akwes denied rumours of a marital relationship with Freda, the ex-wife of another actor, clarifying that he had never married her.

    “I have done nothing to her, and I don’t remember ever marrying her. I don’t want to discuss this because I have international partners watching, and it could jeopardise plans. If you want more details, you should ask Freda, not me,” he responded.

    Ghanaian Kumawood actor Akwasi Asamoah, widely known as Big Akwes, has responded to recent statements made by his ex-wife, Freda, who claimed that marrying him stands as her greatest regret.

    In his subtle reply, Big Akwes acknowledged the remarks surrounding their past relationship. The pair exchanged vows in a private ceremony in Kumasi in August 2023.

    However, their marriage was short-lived, as they decided to part ways a few months later due to ongoing challenges within their union.

  • Commuters stranded after heavy downpour at Airport Roundabout in Kumasi

    Commuters stranded after heavy downpour at Airport Roundabout in Kumasi

    A heavy downpour in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, has left hundreds of commuters stranded at the Airport Roundabout due to severe flooding in the area.

    The rain, which lasted about 30 minutes, overwhelmed local rivers, causing them to overflow and creating hazardous conditions.

    Reporting live from the scene, OTEC News reporter Jacob Agyenim Boateng stated, “Hundreds of cars and commuters, unable to cross the swollen Pelele River, are parked along the road, waiting for the waters to recede.”

    This flooding resulted in significant traffic congestion on major routes leading to the Airport Roundabout, forcing drivers from Sofoline, Kenyasi, Tech, and Asawase to seek alternative paths.

    Residents interviewed by OTEC News cited inadequate drainage systems and poor waste management as key factors contributing to the recurring flooding.

    “We’ve been experiencing this flooding for years. It’s time for the authorities to find a lasting solution,” one resident stated.

    Another added, “The small drains can’t handle the rainwater. We need better infrastructure to prevent these floods.”

    They urged authorities to take action to prevent similar incidents in the future.

  • Over 50 wooden structures nearly destroyed in fire outbreak in Kumasi

    Over 50 wooden structures nearly destroyed in fire outbreak in Kumasi

    A quick response from firefighters in Kumasi prevented a massive disaster at Bantama’s 4BN Old Barracks, where a fierce fire broke out around 9:04 a.m. on October 28.

    Firefighters from Kumasi Metro, with support from Kwadaso and Bost Fire Stations, arrived swiftly to contain the blaze within 57 minutes, averting extensive damage.

    Led by ADO I Maxwell Gamli, the first crew from Metro Fire Station reached the scene in just seven minutes, taking over from the Military Fire Unit and stopping the flames from engulfing over 50 neighbouring wooden structures.

    Only four-chamber and hall units were affected, with no injuries reported, highlighting the firefighters’ dedication to protecting lives and property. Investigations into the cause of the fire are currently underway.

  • Water supply in parts of Kumasi to be disrupted for two days due to maintenance work

    Water supply in parts of Kumasi to be disrupted for two days due to maintenance work

    The Kumasi metropolis will experience a temporary disruption in water supply starting today due to essential maintenance work being carried out at the Barekese water treatment plant.

    This maintenance is part of the ongoing efforts by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) to ensure a reliable and consistent water supply for residents in the area.


    Beginning from October 23 to 24, 2024, GWCL will conduct critical repairs on the main transmission line that serves the Kumasi metropolis.

    This decision comes in response to the need for upgrades and preventive maintenance to sustain the quality and availability of water services to the community.


    The GWCL explained, “The maintenance work is essential to ensure the continued supply of water to the Kumasi metropolis.”


    This proactive approach underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining infrastructure that is crucial for public health and well-being.


    The GWCL advised residents of Kumasi to take the necessary precautions during this period of maintenance.


    Specifically, it is recommended that households store sufficient water to meet their needs during the anticipated disruption.


    GWCL acknowledged that this maintenance may cause some inconvenience, and in light of this, the company is making efforts to minimize the impact on consumers.


    The GWCL management has assured the public that water supply will be restored promptly following the completion of the maintenance work.


    GWCL encouraged residents to adopt good water management practices, particularly in light of the temporary disruption.


    “Management regrets the inconvenience this may cause and assures customers that supply will be restored immediately after the work is completed,” the statement added.

  • Accident on Accra-Kumasi highway leaves six dead

    Accident on Accra-Kumasi highway leaves six dead

    A fatal accident on the Accra-Kumasi highway near Atwedie, Juaso, has claimed the lives of six individuals on Friday, October 11, 2024.

    The collision involved a sprinter bus, registered AS 6313-16, traveling from Togo to Kumasi, and a VIP bus with registration number AC 1550-17, en route from Tamale to Accra.

    Five passengers from the sprinter bus and one from the VIP bus lost their lives instantly.

    Reports indicate that the sprinter bus driver attempted a dangerous overtaking maneuver, which led to the tragic accident.

    Injured passengers were rushed to Konongo Government Hospital for medical treatment, while the deceased were transported to Yawkwei mortuary.

    Asante Akyem Fire Station Assistant Officer John Boakye confirmed the incident to Adom News, stating that all potential fire hazards at the scene had been neutralized.

    Mr. Boakye also urged drivers to exercise caution and reduce their speed to prevent such fatal accidents in the future.

  • “It’s not a humble name” – Oprah tells American journalist of Ghanaian descent, Kumasi Aaron

    “It’s not a humble name” – Oprah tells American journalist of Ghanaian descent, Kumasi Aaron

    In a heartwarming encounter, renowned media mogul Oprah Winfrey praised American journalist Kumasi Aaron’s unique name, calling it “not humble” during a conversation.

    Kumasi Aaron, an ABC7 News journalist, owes her first name to her mother’s fascination with the historic city of Kumasi, Ghana – the capital of the Asante Kingdom.

    Aaron’s mother, captivated by the city’s rich history, chose the name Kumasi after discovering it in a history book. This poignant nod to African heritage resonates deeply within the African American and Caribbean communities, where names often symbolize cultural identity and ancestral ties.

    A similar phenomenon is observed with the name Ashanti, popularized by American musician Ashanti Douglas-Haynes. The name has become synonymous with African ancestry and solidarity among Black communities in the United States and the Caribbean.

    Oprah’s admiration for Kumasi Aaron’s name underscores the significance of cultural heritage and naming conventions. “It’s not a humble name,” Oprah emphasized, acknowledging the name’s majestic origins.

  • Police debunks reports of shooting during NDC protest in Kumasi

    Police debunks reports of shooting during NDC protest in Kumasi

    The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has refuted claims about a shooting incident at the Electoral Commission (EC) office in Kumasi, assuring the public that no demonstrators were harmed.

    In response to circulating reports, the police clarified that there were no injuries among protesters during the demonstration.

    A police statement released on Tuesday explained that a group of demonstrators had tried to enter the EC office compound, violating the pre-agreed arrangements. Officers intervened to prevent the situation from escalating further.

    The GPS also urged the media to ensure accurate reporting to avoid spreading false information.

    However, it was confirmed that tensions flared in Kumasi as police deployed teargas to disperse NDC supporters who clashed with law enforcement during the ‘Enough is Enough’ protest.

    Reports indicate that one protester sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital for medical attention.

    There were also incidents where protesters attempted to attack a police officer, who had to seek shelter in a nearby residence.

    Another officer reportedly suffered injuries after being assaulted by demonstrators.

  • NDC ‘Enough is Enough’ demo turns chaotic in Kumasi; protestors and police ‘trade blows’

    NDC ‘Enough is Enough’ demo turns chaotic in Kumasi; protestors and police ‘trade blows’

    The National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) ‘Enough is Enough’ demonstration which is underway nationwide, has turned rowdy in some parts of the country.

    In Kumasi of the Ashanti Region, protestors and police officers clashed, leading to the arrest of a protestor, per reports.

    The office of the Electoral Commission in Kumasi was broken into by the protestors with some doors being destroyed. According to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NDC, he received a slap from an officer.

    Prior to the fisticuff, the Ghana Police Service issued guidelines for the nationwide protest, emphasizing the importance of adhering to designated routes and timelines. The police assured the public of their commitment to maintaining a peaceful environment during the demonstration.

    To ensure public safety and maintain order, police officers have taken strategic positions across the country, particularly in Accra’s Kwame Nkrumah Circle, where what appears to be a human barricade has been established.

    Also, the Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, issued a stern warning to participants in the party’s nationwide demonstration. He emphasised that the NDC will not tolerate any disruptive behaviour during the protests.

    The protesters are calling for a forensic audit of the 2024 voters’ register as demanded by the opposition party.

    The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is considering recalling Parliament to press the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct an audit of the voter’s register ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    Dr. Forson insists that this audit is crucial to addressing irregularities that could compromise the credibility of the elections, emphasizing that it is essential to hold a free, fair, and transparent process. He made these remarks while addressing protesters during a nationwide demonstration organized by the NDC in Accra.

    Below are videos of the protests happening across the country.

  • Fire guts house in Kumasi Alabar, residents concerned about GNFS’ effectiveness

    Fire guts house in Kumasi Alabar, residents concerned about GNFS’ effectiveness

    In the early hours of Friday, September 13, 2024, a house in Kumasi Alabar was partially destroyed by fire.

    Residents criticized firefighters for their delayed response, which led to confrontations at the scene.

    Although it is not yet confirmed if the entire house was destroyed, a video cited by the Independent Ghana shows that the fire was eventually put out.

    The delay in the emergency response has sparked concerns about the effectiveness of the local firefighting services.

    Watch video below:

  • We need to address galamsey aggressively – Otumfuo to GBA

    We need to address galamsey aggressively – Otumfuo to GBA

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has lauded Ghana Bar Association (GBA) President Yaw Acheampong Boafo for taking a strong stand against illegal mining (galamsey).

    His remarks were made during the GBA’s annual conference in Kumasi.

    During a dinner at the Manhyia Palace, Otumfuo shared his deep concern over the pollution of the River Pra, which he had witnessed firsthand.

    Describing the situation as “embarrassing,” he called for immediate and decisive action to address the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining.

    “I want to congratulate your president on his courageous statement on galamsey this morning at KNUST. Galamsey is an environmental enemy to this nation. What could be more serious for any people than to have their entire water supply at risk?” the Asantehene remarked.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II encouraged the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) to dedicate part of its five-day conference to establishing a panel that would visit communities heavily impacted by illegal mining.

    He believes that such a tour would offer the association a comprehensive view of the crisis and foster discussions on appropriate legal responses.

    “I think as lawyers, you should find space in this five-day conference to set up a panel and take a quick tour of the communities where galamsey is most prevalent. See the extent of the crisis we face, and hopefully, you will deliberate on how the law should respond,” he said.

    The Asantehene also raised concerns about the lack of accountability for those who poison water bodies with toxic chemicals like mercury, questioning why such individuals are not facing any punishment.

    “As I see it, if an individual poisons the water source of a community, they are liable for the consequences under the law. What does the law do when one pours mercury into the same water supply, knowing fully well it can kill?” he asked.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II voiced his disappointment over the persistent environmental degradation and urged a united response from all societal sectors to tackle the crisis.

    He stressed the need for organizations such as the GBA, the Ghana Medical Association, and universities, particularly Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), to come together and spearhead a national campaign against illegal mining.

    “The Ghana Bar Association, the Ghana Medical Association, and the universities, particularly KNUST, should come together to champion a new path to tackle this emergency,” he urged.

    Sharing his personal experience, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II recounted a recent visit to Cape Coast, where he made a stop at the River Pra.

    He described the river’s condition as deeply alarming.

    “In fact, on my way to Cape Coast, I stopped at the River Pra. I’m afraid I have to tell you that what I saw there was so embarrassing. As a nation, how can we allow this to happen to us? I don’t know, but we have to fight this—no matter what,” he reiterated.

  • We are not engaging in secret recruitment at Kumasi – Police

    We are not engaging in secret recruitment at Kumasi – Police

    The Ghana Police Service has called on the public to ignore rumors about a secret recruitment taking place at the Kumasi Police Training School in the Ashanti region.

    In a Facebook update on Wednesday, the police explained that on Monday, September 2, they conducted a significant operation in Kumasi, resulting in the arrest of 487 individuals connected to the QNET Ponzi scheme.

    Due to the large number of suspects, they were taken to the training school for screening as part of the investigation.

    “However, while the screening was ongoing, some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) besieged the training school claiming they had heard of an ongoing secret recruitment at the school,” it added.

    During this process, some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) arrived at the training school, claiming there was covert recruitment happening.

    The police clarified that these claims were unfounded and confirmed that no secret recruitment was occurring. Once the NDC members realized the information was incorrect, they left the scene.

    “We, therefore, urge the public to disregard the claim of the said secret recruitment exercise and treat it with the contempt it deserves,” it added.

  • Police arrest 487 suspects involved in QNET Ponzi scheme in Kumasi

    Police arrest 487 suspects involved in QNET Ponzi scheme in Kumasi

    On September 2, 2024, the Ghana Police Service conducted a targeted operation in Kumasi‘s Adwuman area and apprehended 487 individuals involved in the QNET Ponzi scheme.

    This group included 257 women and 230 men.

    The suspects were found in a residence near Kenyasi in Kumasi’s suburb.

    Preliminary investigations revealed that these individuals had been luring people nationwide with promises of high returns on their investments through the fraudulent scheme.

    Authorities seized registration documents and other materials marked with the QNET logo from the suspects.

    Among those detained are twelve key figures identified as leaders of the scheme: Gyereh Evelyn, Francis Kpesah, Samuel Musah, Simon Yakubu, Thomas Kotual, Kwasi Nyabi, Benjamin Nsigma, Elijah Musah, Moses Katu, John Balabon Tagnakibi, James Nogma, and Fidelis Bang-ib.

    They are currently being held by the police and are assisting with the ongoing investigation.

    The police have issued a warning to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to such schemes.

    “We would like to take this opportunity to urge the public to be wary of such schemes and report such activities to the Police,” a statement issued by the police said.

  • 487 QNET PONZI schemers in Kumasi arrested

    487 QNET PONZI schemers in Kumasi arrested

    The Ghana Police Service, through an intelligence-led operation, has arrested 487 suspects connected to the notorious Ponzi scheme known as QNET.

    The operation, which took place on September 2, 2024, targeted a residence in Adwuman near Kenyasi, a suburb of Kumasi in the Ashanti Region.

    The arrested individuals include 257 females and 230 males, all of whom were allegedly involved in the scheme that has swindled countless unsuspecting victims across the country. Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspects lured individuals into the Ponzi scheme with promises of lucrative returns on investments, exploiting their trust and hopes for financial gain.

    During the operation, police officers retrieved several exhibits, including registration documents and other materials bearing the QNET logo, further implicating the suspects in the fraudulent activities. Among those arrested, twelve individuals have been identified as key executives of the scheme. These executives, currently in police custody, are assisting with the ongoing investigation.

    The identified executives include Gyereh Evelyn, Francis Kpesah, Samuel Musah, Simon Yakubu, Thomas Kotual, Kwasi Nyabi, Benjamin Nsigma, Elijah Musah, Moses Katu, John Balabon Tagnakibi, James Nogma, and Fidelis Bang-ib.

    The Ghana Police Service has issued a warning to the public, urging them to be vigilant and cautious of such fraudulent schemes. The police have also encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities or schemes to law enforcement authorities to prevent further exploitation.

  • 34 injured in accident on Nkawkaw-Kumasi highway

    34 injured in accident on Nkawkaw-Kumasi highway

    A tragic head-on collision on the Nkawkaw-Kumasi Highway at Nkawanda Number Two has left some 34 individuals injured.

    The incident that took place on August 31, involved a DAF truck (GW 9206-S) and a TATA bus (AS 6727-D).

    The bus had 31 passengers, while the truck had 3 occupants who were trapped and later extricated by members of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

    All injured parties were rushed to Kenop Care Hospital in Nkawkaw for medical attention.

  • Prince David Osei, Kalybos, others attend the exclusive all-black party in Kumasi

    Prince David Osei, Kalybos, others attend the exclusive all-black party in Kumasi

    Late August 2023 saw a sensational exclusive all-black party at Ridge Condos in Kumasi, which quickly captured the attention of netizens.

    The event, featuring a host of celebrities, socialites, and influential figures, became a major topic on social media.

    Fast forward to August 23, 2024, and the party returned with even more fun.

    The Ridge Condos once again hosted this star-studded affair, drawing an array of prominent personalities from across Ghana.

    The gathering featured notable figures such as Prince David Osei, Kalybos, Efia Odo, Hajia Bintu, Charlie Dior, Michy GH, Gyakie, and KiDi among others.

    The highlight of the evening included electrifying performances by Medikal and Cina Soul, who delivered unforgettable sets that kept the crowd energized well into the early hours.

    Watch below video:

  • Bolt drivers in Kumasi up fares by 37.5%

    Bolt drivers in Kumasi up fares by 37.5%

    Kumasi Bolt drivers in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, have raised fares by 25% to 37.5% for trips under GH¢50.

    This fare increase has sparked frustration among passengers, who believe the higher charges are unjust. The drivers cite escalating fuel prices and the cost of vehicle spare parts as reasons for the fare hike.

    “We are not punishing passengers, but we are not being considered either,” said Mr. Baffour Boateng, Chairman of the Ashanti Region Online Drivers Union.

    He added, “If the system is too hard for the company to increase fares due to competition, the best they can do is to agree with us and reduce their commission from 25%.”

    A Bolt driver in Kumasi justified the action, saying, “Just last week, the government announced a reduction in fuel prices, but let’s be real, it’s too little, too late.

    Over the past few months, we’ve seen fuel prices skyrocket, and it’s not just fuel; the cost of vehicle spare parts has also gone through the roof, which hasn’t been fair to us.”

    Passengers have complained about drivers calling them before pickup to question the app’s calculated fare and pressuring them to add more money to the trip.

    “It’s frustrating because the app clearly displays the total cost of the trip, but drivers are ignoring this and demanding extra payment,” one passenger complained.

    Mr. Boateng further stated that drivers will continue to “play rough” with passengers if Bolt does not address their concerns.

    “If Bolt does not increase its fare charge or reduce the commission paid to the company, we will continue to negotiate with passengers for extra money,” he warned.

    Hence, passengers using the Bolt app in Kumasi are advised to note that the app’s calculated fare may not be the actual price paid to the driver.

    “Whatever charges the app gives, that’s not the actual price paid to the driver,” he advised.