Fuel prices are expected to remain stable in the second pricing window of June, despite escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Iran and Israel.
This is according to the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), which says recent developments in the region are unlikely to have an immediate impact on fuel prices at the local pump.
Chief Executive Officer of COMAC, Dr. Riverson Oppong, attributed this stability to the lag between global market fluctuations and domestic pricing mechanisms.
“Despite fuel prices going up over the weekend because of the Iranian-Israeli war, you realize that our forecast does not in any way capture those movements. This is the reason why I say that when fuel prices are going up, we do not see the effect immediately on pump prices in this country,” Dr. Oppong explained.
He added that the same delay applies when global prices fall.
“It is the same thing when it is going down—we should not expect fuel prices hit our prices immediately because it takes time for the landing prices to be changed.
“For this week, we are going to have cool prices at the pump level because we are going to sell old stocks or people who have locked in products and paid for it already or may have signed some commercial agreement,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has announced a temporary suspension of new petroleum levies that were scheduled to take effect this month.
The Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141), which proposed a GH₵1 increase per litre on petroleum products, will not be implemented on the planned date of June 16, 2025.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Newsroom on Saturday, June 14, the Ministry’s spokesperson and Head of Communication, Richmond Rockson, said the postponement is a response to recent volatility in global oil prices.
He noted that the decision forms part of broader efforts to contain inflation and shield consumers from further price hikes.
Barcelona had thrown their hat into the ring, according to Marca, having missed out on automatic qualification. Despite being La Liga, Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup winners in 2024-25, the Blaugrana were not invited to the Club World Cup.
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FIFA initially dictated that only two teams from any one nation could compete, with Spain being represented by Real Madrid and their neighbours Atletico. They are set to be richly rewarded for their participation, with it possible that they could pull in €135 million (£115m/$156m).
WHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA?
Barca were, however, snubbed by world football’s governing body. Instead of heading to the United States, where they continue to work on growing their global fan base, the Blaugrana will be taking in a summer tour of Asia.
Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has cautioned stakeholders in Ghana’s health sector against an overreliance on workshops and seminars, urging a shift in focus towards addressing the country’s critical infrastructure and service delivery gaps.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Pandemic Fund National Steering Committee in Accra, Akandoh expressed concern over the disproportionate use of health sector funds on training sessions, calling for more prudent and impactful investment.
“I have only been in office for a few months, and what I have realised is that a significant portion of the available funds is being used for workshops and meetings,” he said.
“I sincerely hope this won’t be business as usual. I will vehemently oppose that.”
The 13-member committee, tasked with strengthening Ghana’s pandemic preparedness, response, and prevention mechanisms, is expected to direct funding towards tangible improvements in healthcare infrastructure and readiness.
“The fund will specifically support improvements in health workforce readiness, laboratory infrastructure, and early warning surveillance systems,” Akandoh noted, citing recent health challenges including meningitis in the Upper West Region, cholera outbreaks in the Greater Accra and Central Regions, and over 79 confirmed Mpox cases.
He underscored the limitations of training-heavy interventions in the face of emergencies.
“We can organise all the workshops in the world, but without well-equipped laboratories, what happens when there’s a pandemic?” he asked.
“Workshops and meetings are not bad in themselves, but it is absolutely absurd to spend more than 20 percent of the funds on them.”
The Minister emphasised the need for consensus on allocating resources, stressing that most of the funding should be used for interventions that deliver real benefits to the average Ghanaian.
Akandoh also charged the newly inaugurated committee to prioritise accountability, transparency, and measurable results in their work.
In a related address, Dr. Sofonias Asrat, Lead for the Universal Health Coverage Life Course Cluster at the World Health Organization (WHO), encouraged the committee to uphold inclusivity and transparency in all its activities to strengthen Ghana’s public health response capacity.
The committee was inaugurated under the theme: “Strengthening Systems for Pandemic Preparedness and Response in Ghana.”
Lawyer and constitutional activist Prof Stephen Kwaku Asare, popularly known as Kwaku Azar, has sharply criticised recent comments by a former NPP chairman, Freddie Blay, suggesting that presidential term limits are open to judicial interpretation.
The controversial claim grounded in what has been dubbed the “bosom theory” — the idea that the law resides in the discretion of judges has sparked widespread alarm among legal minds and democracy advocates.
In a strongly worded statement, Kwaku Azar warned that such reasoning is not only “disappointing” but “dangerous”, arguing that it undermines constitutional certainty and opens the door to authoritarianism under the guise of judicial interpretation.
The former political leader, who also previously served in the Convention People’s Party (CPP), reportedly claimed in an interview that term limits could be viewed as “elastic,” adding that “the law is in the bosom of the judge.” The remarks have ignited debate across legal, political, and academic circles.
Kwaku Azar responded with a scathing critique, asserting that judges are not the authors of the Constitution but its interpreters, and that the bosom theory—if left unchallenged—could destroy public trust in the judiciary.
“To flirt with the notion that two terms may not mean two terms is to normalise judicial pliancy—and to flirt with constitutional revisionism disguised as interpretation.
“It is a concert masquerading as constitutional law,” he stated.
As part of his rebuttal, Kwaku Azar released “GOGO’s Top 10 Reasons to Reject the Bosom Theory,” outlining the constitutional, legal, and democratic dangers it poses:
It Undermines Legal Certainty – If “two terms” becomes debatable, laws lose their clarity and consistency.
It Weakens Judicial Legitimacy – Judges should apply the law, not invent it based on personal disposition.
It Enables Authoritarian Creep – Vague interpretations of term limits allow leaders to overstay their mandate.
It Encourages Strategic Litigation – Court outcomes become more about who’s on the panel than what the law says.
It Corrupts Judicial Appointments – Politicians may appoint judges who align with their personal or political interests.
It Makes the Constitution a Suggestion, Not a Standard – Bosom theory turns legal text into subjective improvisation.
It Fuels Panel Rigging – Assignments are no longer random but curated to favour certain outcomes.
It Demotes Parliament and Elevates Panels – Judges, not lawmakers, become the de facto arbiters of national law.
It Destroys Equality Before the Law – Judicial outcomes become unequal, favouring the powerful and well-connected.
It Sabotages Democracy from Within – Democracies may erode through “interpretation,” not coups.
Kwaku Azar’s statement has resonated with many concerned about the creeping politicisation of the judiciary and the integrity of Ghana’s constitutional democracy, especially with elections approaching.
play videoA photo collage of Ellen Ama Daaku, Akandoh and Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings
A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) communications team, Ellen Ama Daaku, has criticised Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, over his comments during the recent strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA).
During the strike which saw nurses and midwives nationwide withdrawing their services over poor conditions of service, Akandoh suggested that retired nurses should step in to help save lives.
This comment sparked outrage, with Ama Daaku describing it as “insulting to the entire nursing fraternity.”
According to her, the minister should have proposed more constructive solutions rather than making what she considers an irresponsible and demeaning statement.
Speaking in an interview on Movement TV on June 13, 2025, Ama Daaku accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government of appointing unqualified individuals to sensitive positions, particularly in the health sector.
She questioned why the NDC chose Kwabena Mintah Akandoh over Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, whom she described as a qualified medical doctor, Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey, and a daughter of the party’s founder, the late Jerry John Rawlings.
She referenced Akandoh’s much-talked-about vetting in 2015 as the then Deputy Minister-designate for Water Resources, Works & Housing, during which he mentioned having work experience as a dining hall prefect an answer that went viral and was widely ridiculed.
“Today Akandoh is out here making insulting remarks. If not for poor decision-making, why would they choose Akandoh a dining hall prefect over someone like Dr Zanetor Rawlings, a qualified medical doctor and the daughter of the party’s founder? God has punished them,” she said.
She continued, “You have even heard NDC nurses complain that some of those admitted into nursing training today failed their WASSCE exams.
“Yet, today Akandoh has the guts to hold a press conference and tell us that retired nurses should come out of retirement to work, while vibrant young nurses are protesting for their rights,” she added.
“This is the government we voted for?”
Meanwhile, the striking nurses and midwives have officially called off their nationwide industrial action after days of disagreements with their employers, which led to widespread disruption to healthcare services.
The decision announced on Friday, June 13, 2025, by the President of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, follows intensive negotiations with government representatives and an impassioned plea for compassion from various stakeholders.
AM/KA
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The VRA has installed demarcation pillars in communities around the Volta Lake
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has urged Municipal and District Assemblies and traditional leaders to strictly halt farming and construction within the 280-foot contour of Volta Lake to prevent environmental degradation and safeguard public safety.
The area, identified as flood-prone and environmentally sensitive, must be preserved to safeguard both the environment and power generation.
The warning was delivered during an emergency preparedness and environmental sustainability stakeholder engagement workshop held in Asesewa, in the Upper Manya Krobo District of the Eastern Region.
Jonathan Hagan, Manager for Sustainability at the VRA, explained that the 280ft contour represents the highest water level recorded on the Volta Lake following the construction of the Akosombo Dam.
He pointed out that during the rainy season, water levels rise substantially, flooding parts of the land within the 280ft mark, making it unsafe and unsuitable for settlement or farming.
“Over the years, especially during the rainy season, water levels rise significantly and flood parts of the land within the 280ft mark,” Mr. Hagan said. “Any form of development – whether farming or infrastructure, in this zone threatens power generation, ecosystems, and local livelihoods.”
He also noted that some people tended to encroach on the land during the dry season, mistaking the dry, bare riparian zones for abandoned land.
“But that land is not vacant; it is a waterway. When the lake reaches its high-water mark or when it spills over, all properties and crops within that zone will be submerged,” he added.
To prevent further encroachment, the VRA has installed demarcation pillars in communities such as Akateng, Fantem, Abotoase, Botokope, and Dzemeni to clearly mark the 280ft boundary line.
Additionally, Mr. Hagan revealed that the authority was piloting bamboo planting projects in Salaga, Yeji, Kwame Danso, and Afram Plains.
He explained that bamboo, being a fast-growing plant that stabilizes soil, would serve as an effective natural barrier to protect the high-water boundary.
Mr. Francis Abban, VRA’s Communications Manager, underscored the legal framework underpinning these restrictions.
He cited Section 27(2)(g) of the Volta River Development Act, 1961 (Act 46), as amended, and the State Lands (Volta River Flooded Areas) Instrument, 1974 (E.I. 98), which collectively designate about 2,600 square miles of land as submerged at maximum water levels, making any development there illegal.
He also stressed the importance of Ghana’s Buffer Zone Policy, which aims to preserve vegetation along water bodies to maintain water quality. “The recommended buffer width beyond the 280ft mark is between 10 and 60 meters,” he said.
Upper Manya Krobo District Chief Executive, Mr. Kwesi Lawer, acknowledged the challenges posed by upstream activities like farming along riverbanks.
“We will ensure that lands within the contour are left fallow, and where there are no trees, afforestation will be pursued to prevent erosion and protect the dam,” he said.
He announced that, with support from the VRA, Forestry Commission, and Agriculture Department, the District Assembly would establish a task force comprising community members to monitor and prevent illegal activities, as well as oversee reforestation efforts.
The DCE condemned poor physical planning, citing the recent submergence of the Akateng market, which was wrongly built on the contour line.
“During my tenure, no development will be allowed on the 280ft contour line. What happened at Akateng must never happen again,” he declared.
The VRA’s call for compliance aligns with ongoing efforts to balance human development with environmental preservation and sustainable power generation, ensuring the long-term safety and health of the Volta Lake ecosystem.
Popular Ghanaian actor and internet personality, Nana Tornado, has spoken out angrily about his past friendship with TV presenter Deloris Frimpong Manso, also known as Delay.
In a new interview on Liz Media’s “Real Talk” show, hosted by Elizabeth Essuman, Nana Tornado shared emotional and shocking details about how Delay treated him in the past.
According to him, Delay did not help him in life but rather slowed him down.
“Delay used me and delayed my destiny!” Tornado said strongly.
“Since I met her, my life has been full of pain. I did everything for her, but she paid me back with evil.”
He explained that when they became friends, he believed their bond would help both of them grow.
He supported her career, appeared on her shows, and stood by her when others left. But today, he feels betrayed.
Tornado added that despite his loyalty, Delay turned her back on him when he needed her most. He described her as someone who only takes from others without showing gratitude.
“I gave her my time, my talent, and my loyalty. But when things got tough, she left me behind. She is ungrateful,” he said.
The actor, who has become known for his bold and outspoken personality on social media, did not hide his pain.
He said Delay’s silence over their issues for many years made things worse, and he can no longer keep quiet.
Many fans were shocked by his words, while others said they saw this coming because the two have not been seen together in a long time.
The full interview will be released later this week, and people on social media are already talking about it.
Some believe Nana Tornado is right to speak his truth, while others think he may be chasing attention.
The chieftaincy institution in Ghana has long been a pillar of tradition, governance, and cultural identity. Among the most influential traditional rulers are the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II. Their interactions have often been marked by historical debates, territorial assertions, and leadership supremacy. The latest development in their ongoing rivalry stems from Dormaahene’s declaration that he intends to install a chief in Nkronzaman, a move that has sparked strong reactions from Otumfuo.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in response to Dormaahene’s statement, expressed his frustration over what he perceives as repeated acts of defiance. He remarked that he has tolerated Dormaahene’s actions for over five years but will no longer accept such behavior. He further likened Dormaahene’s conduct to that of a child who has lost his food, implying a lack of discipline and strategic foresight in his approach to chieftaincy matters.
The dispute over Nkronzaman is deeply rooted in historical territorial claims. Dormaahene’s vow to install a chief in the area has raised concerns about the boundaries of traditional authority and the implications for governance within the chieftaincy system. Otumfuo’s challenge to Dormaahene reflects the broader struggle for influence and recognition within Ghana’s traditional leadership structure.
This confrontation highlights the complexities of chieftaincy in Ghana, where historical narratives and territorial governance continue to shape leadership dynamics. While traditional rulers play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and mediating conflicts, disputes such as this can create divisions among communities. The National House of Chiefs may need to intervene to mediate the growing dispute and prevent further escalation.
As the debate unfolds, historians, traditional leaders, and political analysts are closely monitoring the developments. The outcome of this confrontation could shape the future of chieftaincy relations in Ghana, influencing how traditional rulers assert their authority and navigate historical disputes.
The latest auction results from the Bank of Ghana show that the government fell short of its Treasury bill target by GHS 393 million, reflecting a 5.19% undersubscription.
The government aimed to raise GHS 7.58 billion but received total bids of GHS 7.19 billion.
From a stark contrast of selective acceptance in previous auctions, the Treasury took up nearly all available bids in this round, particularly in the shorter tenors, likely in response to upcoming high maturities.
All GHS 6.02 billion tendered for the 91-day bill was accepted, along with the full GHS 995 million for the 182-day. For the 364-day, GHS 173 million out of GHS 204 million in bids was accepted.
Meanwhile, interest rates continued to decline across the curve. The 91-day rate dropped by 9 basis points to 14.70%, the 182-day fell by 21 basis points to 15.25%, while the 364-day eased by 6 basis points to 15.74%.
Looking ahead, the government is targeting GHS 4.55 billion in the next auction.
Prophet Nigel Gaisie has shared heartbreaking news on his official Facebook page, confirming the death of another prominent Ghanaian man of God.
This loss deeply saddens the Christian community in Ghana.
On Saturday, June 14, 2025, Prophet Nigel Gaisie announced the passing of Bishop Richard Ankomah Kwesi Ampofo, a respected and well-known pastor.
Bishop Ampofo was the founder, leader, and general overseer of Christian Redemption International Ministry. His death has come as a shock to many. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
In his Facebook message, Prophet Nigel Gaisie wrote:
“Agya, you made prophetic ministry easier for us… you never hindered or conspired against upcoming ministers.
Your last words of wisdom still echo in my ears… THANK YOU FOR SHOWING US THE WAY. REST IN THE PROPHETIC ARMS OF JESUS CHRIST, AGYA NSIAH… PNG.”
This sorrowful news follows closely after the recent burial of Bishop Ampofo’s nephew, making the family’s grief even more profound. Both the church and the community are mourning these consecutive losses.
Many followers and church members have taken to social media to express their condolences and prayers for the family and the late bishop.
Bishop Kwesi Ampofo was affectionately known as “Big Daddy,” reflecting his deep care and dedication to those he ministered to.
Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has cautioned stakeholders in Ghana’s health sector against an overreliance on workshops and seminars, urging a shift in focus towards addressing the country’s critical infrastructure and service delivery gaps.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Pandemic Fund National Steering Committee in Accra, Akandoh expressed concern over the disproportionate use of health sector funds on training sessions, calling for more prudent and impactful investment.
“I have only been in office for a few months, and what I have realised is that a significant portion of the available funds is being used for workshops and meetings,” he said.
“I sincerely hope this won’t be business as usual. I will vehemently oppose that.”
The 13-member committee, tasked with strengthening Ghana’s pandemic preparedness, response, and prevention mechanisms, is expected to direct funding towards tangible improvements in healthcare infrastructure and readiness.
“The fund will specifically support improvements in health workforce readiness, laboratory infrastructure, and early warning surveillance systems,” Akandoh noted, citing recent health challenges including meningitis in the Upper West Region, cholera outbreaks in the Greater Accra and Central Regions, and over 79 confirmed Mpox cases.
He underscored the limitations of training-heavy interventions in the face of emergencies.
“We can organise all the workshops in the world, but without well-equipped laboratories, what happens when there’s a pandemic?” he asked.
“Workshops and meetings are not bad in themselves, but it is absolutely absurd to spend more than 20 percent of the funds on them.”
The Minister emphasised the need for consensus on allocating resources, stressing that most of the funding should be used for interventions that deliver real benefits to the average Ghanaian.
Akandoh also charged the newly inaugurated committee to prioritise accountability, transparency, and measurable results in their work.
In a related address, Dr. Sofonias Asrat, Lead for the Universal Health Coverage Life Course Cluster at the World Health Organization (WHO), encouraged the committee to uphold inclusivity and transparency in all its activities to strengthen Ghana’s public health response capacity.
The committee was inaugurated under the theme: “Strengthening Systems for Pandemic Preparedness and Response in Ghana.”
Nana Adarkwah Yiadom II, the Chief of Wassa Agyakaamanso in the Amenfi Central District of the Western Region, has appealed to the government to rehabilitate the deplorable roads in the area to enhance socio-economic activities.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the chief said the poor state of the roads remained the most pressing challenge, directly impacting social and economic activities in communities such as Agyakaamanso, Sefwi Bekwai, Juabo, Nkwanta Number 1 and 2, Sraha, Ankwaaso, and Agona Amenfi.
“All commercial activities, including farming, are hampered by the negative impact of our poor road network,” he stated.
Nana Adarkwah II added that the onset of the rains had worsened the plight of road users in these communities.
He said drivers frequently complained about the high costs of vehicle maintenance due to the damages caused by the bad roads.
He noted: “The current condition of roads in these areas is beyond deplorable, rendering them almost unusable and negating the economic and social benefits they should provide.
“The most depressing consequences of the poor roads include an increase in road accidents, such as tyre bursts and vehicle collisions, as drivers and motorists attempt to dodge potholes.”
Nana Adarkwah II added that traditional authorities had made several efforts to draw the attention of government officials, Members of Parliament from various political parties, and other stakeholders, but to no avail.
He therefore called on the government and the Member of Parliament for the area to take swift action to fix the roads and thereby enhance socio-economic development and improve the quality of life for the people of Agyakaamanso.
Ghana is accelerating the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to unlock new opportunities for Ghanaian businesses across Africa, moving beyond commodity-based trade toward value addition in traditional exports such as gold, oil, and cocoa.
Speaking during the Ghana Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025 Business Roadshow, Ghana’s Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, highlighted the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive under AfCFTA. This includes improving trade infrastructure, financing, and market access.
“Under our Market Expansion Programme, the National AfCFTA Coordination Office is providing firm-level support to over 2,000 MSMEs in Ghana. This includes sensitization, market readiness training programmes, training on AfCFTA’s Rules of Origin, trade finance, and market access initiatives,” the minister said in a speech read on her behalf by the Acting National Coordinator of the National AfCFTA Coordination Office, Benjamin Kwaku Asiam.
She also noted that Ghana has undertaken targeted trade missions to East Africa, taking Ghanaian businesses to Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda to explore real-time opportunities and negotiate supply contracts.
The Ghana IATF2025 Business Roadshow brought together government officials, members of the trade community—including businesses and investors—and executives from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank).
The event focused on promoting intra-African trade under the theme: Harnessing Regional and Continental Value Chains: Accelerating Africa’s Industrialisation and Global Competitiveness through AfCFTA.
The Business Roadshow is one of five being held in Accra, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Lagos, and Algiers ahead of the fourth edition of the biennial Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025), scheduled to take place in Algiers, Algeria, from 4–10 September 2025.
IATF is Africa’s premier trade and investment event, organized by Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the AfCFTA Secretariat. It provides a platform for businesses to showcase goods and exchange trade and investment information within the continent’s single market.
In his keynote address, the Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, Wamkele Mene, described IATF as an unparalleled platform for the exchange of trade and investment information, calling it a “marketplace of ideas, opportunities, and partnerships.”
“As we work to scale up intra-African trade, build regional value chains, and accelerate industrialisation, IATF serves as a key platform for connecting African businesses, investors, governments, and innovators. It is a catalyst for turning the promise of AfCFTA into concrete outcomes: trade deals signed, investments mobilized, and jobs created.
“By establishing a large, integrated market, AfCFTA encourages countries to specialize and add value to their products, attracting investment and creating jobs,” Mene said. He added that the initiative supports economic diversification, poverty reduction, and Africa’s vision for sustainable and inclusive development.
Dr. Yemi Kale, Afreximbank’s Group Chief Economist and Managing Director of Research, described IATF as the commercial engine of AfCFTA, bringing to life Africa’s ambition to trade more with itself—not just in raw materials but also in value-added goods, services, and innovations.
“One of the persistent barriers to intra-African trade is not tariffs or logistics alone, but also access to accurate, timely, and actionable market intelligence. Trade cannot flourish in the absence of information,” Dr. Kale emphasized, adding that IATF2025 provides a platform to address this gap.
He invited Ghanaian businesses and government agencies to participate in IATF2025, where over 2,000 exhibitors from Africa and beyond are expected to showcase their products to more than 35,000 visitors and buyers from over 140 countries, with projected trade and investment deals exceeding US$44 billion.
Cumulatively, IATF has attracted over 4,500 exhibitors and more than 70,000 visitors, facilitating over US$100 billion in deals. The last edition, held in Cairo, featured nearly 2,000 exhibitors from 65 countries and generated US$43.7 billion in trade and investment deals.
The upcoming IATF2025 will be hosted by the Government of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria.
Speaking at the Business Roadshow, Algeria’s Ambassador to Ghana, Mourad Louhaidia, welcomed visitors and exhibitors to Algiers, pledging his government’s commitment to facilitating a successful IATF2025. He noted that Algeria would mobilize transport and hospitality infrastructure and ensure the smooth entry of all participants.
“The Algerian embassy will fast-track visa processing for all participants from Ghana. We have set up a dedicated team at the embassy to handle all information requests and visa applications related to IATF2025,” Louhaidia added.
IATF2025 will feature a trade exhibition; the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme spotlighting cultural industries; a four-day Trade and Investment Forum; and the Africa Automotive Show.
Special days will be dedicated to showcasing countries, public and private sector entities, tourism, cultural attractions, and a Global Africa Day celebrating ties with the African diaspora.
Additional activities include business-to-business and business-to-government matchmaking, the AU Youth Start-Up programme, the Africa Research and Innovation Hub, and the African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) to promote local trade and cultural exchanges. The IATF Virtual Platform is also live, connecting exhibitors and visitors year-round.
Ghanaian IATF Ambassador and Chairman of Oakwood Green Africa, Gabriel Edgal, remarked, “Long before borders were drawn, Africa thrived as a connected economy. Trade was a way of life. Value was created locally. Progress moved through relationships and exchange.”
“Across the world, we are seeing increasing protectionism. Traditional aid partners are turning inward. The global economic tide is shifting. This is a wake-up call—we must now be more deliberate about trading among ourselves to create interconnected prosperity. It is time to trade among ourselves, build with ourselves, and grow for ourselves. It is time for action.”
Ghana has been recognized as a leading example in AfCFTA implementation, with the government actively facilitating private sector participation through the National Coordination Office and initiatives like the Guided Trade Initiative, which has enabled Ghanaian companies to successfully trade with neighboring African countries.
Organized by Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the AfCFTA Secretariat, the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is designed to provide a unique platform for facilitating trade and investment information exchange, supporting increased intra-African trade and investment in the context of the AfCFTA’s implementation.
IATF brings together continental and global players to exhibit their goods and services and explore business and investment opportunities across the continent. It also provides a platform for sharing market insights, identifying trade and investment solutions, and addressing the challenges confronting intra-African trade.
AM/KA
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According to the report by TV3 GH today June 15, 2025, Ghanaians have recently expressed their concerns over the political future of Haruna Iddrisu, Ghana’s Education Minister, warning him that his current approach could hinder his chances of becoming the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer in the 2028 elections.
A warning posted by a netizen highlights the importance of staying true to the grassroots, the loyal supporters of the NDC, if Haruna hopes to win their backing for higher office.
The netizen’s caution comes after Haruna Iddrisu publicly condemned the actions of Emeafa Hardcastle, the CEO of the Petroleum Commission, who allegedly insulted Member of Parliament (MP) for Nsawam Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh.
Haruna strongly criticized Hardcastle in Parliament, stating that such insults should not be tolerated.
He also called for forgiveness, acknowledging the challenges that come with being a woman in Ghana’s patriarchal society, suggesting that Hardcastle should not face harsh punishment.
However, while Haruna’s call for unity and tolerance may have been well-intentioned, the online warning to him stresses that his political future within the NDC is at risk.
The netizen argues that while Haruna is popular among Ghanaians, he may struggle to secure the NDC flagbearer position in 2028 if he does not focus on the party’s grassroots.
The grassroots are the heart of any political party, and they are known for their loyalty to leaders who stand by their interests.
The warning draws a parallel with Alan Kyerematen, a former presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Despite his national popularity, Kyerematen lost the support of the NPP grassroots in favor of Dr. Bawumia, which resulted in his political downfall.
The netizen suggests that if Haruna continues to alienate the NDC base, he may face a similar fate.
The core supporters of the NDC are known for their strong desire for leaders who prioritize their needs and interests.
If Haruna Iddrisu does not build stronger relationships with these supporters, he may find himself unable to rely on them in the future. As the netizen rightly pointed out,
“What the NDC grassroots hate is someone who doesn’t stand with them.”
It was on a quiet Monday afternoon that Mr Jon Coomson and his beautiful wife of 10 years, Aba, walked into the Department of Social Welfare. They had over the last five years nurtured the hope with their readiness to love a child they had not birthed.
However, they shortly discovered upon their initial engagement with the officials that adoption in Ghana is not the swift, compassionate exchange they had imagined. It is a journey paved with legal checks, emotional preparedness, and above all, a positive in perspective.
The desire to become a parent is near-universal, but not everyone achieves it through biological means. Adoption provides an alternative; a legal process in which full parental rights and responsibilities are permanently transferred from a child s biological parents or guardians to the adoptive parents. Once an adoption order is granted, all legal ties to the biological family are severed, even under customary law, and the adoptive parents assume full responsibility as though the child were their own by birth.
Yet, in Ghana, adoption is still misunderstood by many. It is often seen as a charitable gesture towards abandoned or neglected children. This perception is problematic. Adoption is not a benevolent act; rather, it is a privilege <\_> a chance offered by a child to individuals who long to become parents.
Viewing adopted children as second-best or different is both inaccurate and unfair. Children, whether adopted or biological; deserve the same unconditional love, care, and respect. When society sees adoption as a form of charity, it unwittingly risks treating these children differently. However, when adoption is embraced as a familial bond formed through choice and legal commitment, it opens the way for genuine, nurturing relationships.
The Children s Act of 1998 (Act 560), as amended in 2016 (Act 937), lays out a robust legal framework for adoption in Ghana. This law prioritises the best interests of the child and establishes stringent vetting and matching processes. These procedures are essential for ensuring that children are placed in loving, capable homes – not merely with those willing to take them in.
What many do not realise is that the pool of adoptable children in Ghana is quite limited. Statistics indicate that around 60 per cent of children in residential homes are not eligible for adoption due to existing family ties or unresolved legal matters. Of the remaining 40 per cent, most are either over the age of 13 or have special needs. Only about five per cent are infants without special needs; the group most sought after by prospective adoptive parents.
This reality highlights the need for a deeper understanding of adoption and the unique circumstances of each child. Every adoption story is different, and each child deserves to be seen and valued as an individual, not a fulfilment of an adult s longing.
International adoption is even more closely regulated. Under the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (1993), such adoptions are permitted only when no suitable care options are available within the child s home country. Ghana adheres to this principle, ensuring that the child s welfare is always the priority.
The Department of Social Welfare continues to advocate for child protection and family preservation. Preventive programmes are actively reducing cases of child abandonment and neglect, which in turn lowers the number of children eligible for adoption. This means that those seeking to make a meaningful difference in a child s life might also consider foster care; a temporary but impactful way to provide support and stability to children in need.
Foster care does not transfer parental rights, but it offers a profound opportunity to care for children who need safe, loving environments. It complements adoption as part of a broader approach to child welfare.
At the heart of it all lies a crucial truth: adoption is not a favour bestowed upon a child, but a life-changing opportunity granted to adults. When adoption is understood and embraced in this light, adoptive children are more likely to receive the love and respect they deserve, not as objects of pity, but as cherished members of their families. GNA
Fidelity Bank Ghana has once again positioned itself at the forefront of Ghana’s export-led growth agenda, with a strong call for cutting-edge sustainable solutions to unlock the full potential of the horticultural sector.
Speaking at the Ghana Horticultural Expo 2025, under the theme “Innovation, Sustainability, and Digital Transformation for a Competitive Horticultural Sector”, Julian Opuni, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Ghana, delivered a message that underscores the critical role of the sector in driving inclusive growth, foreign exchange generation, and national development.
“It’s not just about what we extract from the ground, but what we grow, process, and export to the world,” Mr. Opuni remarked as he addressed a distinguished gathering of policymakers, development partners, agribusiness leaders, exporters, and government agencies.
He reflected on the bank’s growing involvement in the sector, highlighting Fidelity Bank’s strategic partnership with the Federation of Associations of Ghana Exporters (FAGE), which has already yielded tangible results.
“Since the launch of our Export Club partnership with FAGE two years ago, we have disbursed over GH¢45 million through our ‘BRIDGE-in Agriculture’ program with Mastercard and an additional GH¢100 million through various credit facilities.
“This financial injection has directly strengthened foreign exchange inflows and contributed to Ghana’s broader economic stability,” he emphasised.
The Fidelity Bank MD described the 2025 Expo theme as “absolutely necessary” given today’s evolving global market dynamics, where traceability, compliance, climate change, and consumer transparency are no longer optional but essential for competitiveness.
“These might seem like challenges, but they’re also tremendous opportunities for Ghana to truly redefine our place in global value chains,” he said.
Beyond its financing role, Mr. Opuni reaffirmed Fidelity Bank’s commitment to serve as a true partner to the horticultural sector.
“We want to be more than just a financier; we want to be an enabler — actively partnering with agribusinesses, exporters, and institutions to unlock the immense potential of horticulture.”
He stressed that horticulture remains one of Ghana’s strongest levers for inclusive growth, job creation for youth and women, food security, and sustainable foreign exchange generation.
Recognising that access to finance remains a key barrier for many players in the horticultural sector, Fidelity Bank is taking deliberate steps to close that gap.
“That’s precisely why we’re hosting targeted sessions throughout this expo to demystify our export finance offerings,” Mr. Opuni announced.
“Next month, in collaboration with FAGE, we will host a practical masterclass for exporters to walk them through our products, explain the requirements, and help businesses become truly investment-ready.”
These initiatives reflect Fidelity Bank’s broader strategy of building capacity across the export ecosystem, extending beyond conventional financing to include trade guarantees, risk-sharing schemes, and innovative digital platforms that simplify and accelerate access to capital.
However, the Fidelity Bank MD was quick to emphasise that finance alone is not enough. “We must build strong ecosystems.
“This means supporting policies that make cross-border trade more predictable, investing in cold chain infrastructure and logistics, and embracing sustainability as a real competitive advantage, not just a slogan.”
He urged all stakeholders to adopt a long-term, collaborative approach that places innovation, sustainability, and digitalisation at the centre of Ghana’s horticultural development agenda.
As the Expo progresses, Fidelity Bank continues to demonstrate its commitment to Ghana’s export sector, positioning itself as a forward-looking financial institution that goes beyond transactional banking to support national priorities and economic transformation.
“We are proud to stand with you, not just as a bank, but as a partner for progress. Together, we can grow something truly bigger: a vibrant, export-led economy that delivers real value for farmers, businesses, communities, and the nation as a whole,” Opuni concluded.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
play videoA photo collage of Bernard Ahiafor and Afenyo-Markin
The Minority Leader of Parliament Alexander Afenyo-Markin issued a caution to First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, amid discussions in Parliament concerning the arrest and detention of Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
During his submission on the floor of Parliament at the time of Wontumi’s arrest, Afenyo-Markin criticised what he described as the biased and capricious conduct of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), warning against the selective persecution of political opponents.
He urged the Deputy Speaker, who was presiding at the time, to stand firm and allow Parliament to exercise its mandate in ensuring rightful accountability, rather than permitting perceived political witch-hunts.
“Mr Speaker never should it happen to any politician that you will be leaving office and you start getting worried that what will happen to me tomorrow. We should freely save our country. Let the records bare me out.
“I support accountability, but accountability must be seen to be done. The rule of law must be followed, and due process must be followed.”
He cautioned the Majority side of the House not to gloat over Chairman Wontumi’s predicament, stressing that political power is not permanent.
“Mr Speaker pleased permit me to speak, tomorrow it maybe you, Mr speaker tomorrow it maybe you and I will be there for you, today some of our colleagues are in government, you can never tell. Something may happen that may not be your fault. We will all remain in this chamber and you may call on us. You are in government today and 2028 you cannot be sure.”
The Minority Leader reminded the House of the NPP’s past dominance in Parliament, noting the sharp decline in numbers.
“We had 169 Members in the House before, and in less than two years, we are ‘apa’ [fallen]. So don’t be too happy and don’t jubilate.”
He called on members from both sides to speak out against what he described as abuse of power by EOCO.
“Mr. Speaker, it is clear that EOCO is being capricious and biased. We must not entertain it.”
AM/KA
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Samira Bawumia Shôcks Ghanaians As She Publicly Ends Ken Agyapong’s Political Career
News Hub Creator12h
In a moment that has taken both political observers and the general public by surprise, Ghana’s Second Lady, Samira Bawumia, publicly rebuked outspoken politician Kennedy Agyapong, casting serious doubts over the veteran lawmaker’s future within his party and the nation’s political discourse.
The incident, which unfolded during a public event earlier this week, marks a significant departure from the traditional backroom handling of party disputes. Instead, it has set a new precedent for transparency—and confrontation—within the political establishment.
A Political Titan Dismissed
Kennedy Agyapong, a longtime member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and known for his combative political style, had increasingly found himself at odds with senior figures in the party. Tensions had been rising over what insiders described as “a series of inflammatory statements and growing insubordination,” sparking internal friction ahead of the 2024 elections.
While many expected the issue to be handled discreetly, Samira Bawumia, widely respected for her assertiveness and political clarity, took the matter into the public domain. In a pointed address, she expressed “grave concerns” over Agyapong’s recent conduct, accusing him of actions that “fracture party unity and defy the values we stand for.”
“Leadership demands both courage and character,” Samira stated, “and when either is compromised, we must be willing to act—for the good of the party and the future of our country.”
Her words were met with audible reactions from those present, many of whom interpreted the comments as a political dismissal of Agyapong’s influence.
Ten invigilators have been arrested for allegedly engaging in examination malpractice in the ongoing Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), has confirmed.
The suspects, who have since been handed over to the police for further investigations and subsequent prosecution, were said to have taken snapshots of the question papers and forwarded them to some persons to provide answers to them.
One invigilator was arrested in the Greater Accra Region, six in the Bono East Region, another one in the Ashanti Region and then two in the Bono Region.
“We know that the examination is going well, and also some invigilators were found with question papers, snapshots of the question papers, and they have been arrested, and we have sent them outside.
“But the Ghana Education Service has advised all invigilators and supervisors to do the right thing and make sure that the examination is conducted without any examination malpractice and incidents anywhere,” the Head of the National Office of WAEC, Dr Rosemond Wilson, said in an interaction with journalists after a tour of some BECE centres in Accra yesterday.
She said there were other reports the council was investigating, adding that the necessary security measures had been put in place to ensure that no illegality was recorded.
The measures, she said, included asking district directors of education and the supervisors to take their question papers straight to the examination halls after picking them (question papers) and “make sure that they don’t allow any invigilator or supervisor to take snapshots of them”.
Centres
Areas she visited during the tour included the Accra High School, Ring Road East Basic 1 and the Kanda Estate 3&5 Basic School BECE centres.
At the Accra High School Centre, a total of 134 candidates from five schools are writing the BECE and the supervisor, Patrick Sakyi Ofei, said, “So far everything is smooth and we don’t have any absentees.”
The Ring Road East 1 Basic School Centre, however, recorded two absentees – a boy and a girl.
The Kanda Estate 3&5 Basic School BECE Centre had four schools with 229 candidates writing the examination.
There was no absentee.
Dr Wilson said directors and supervisors had been told to get assistant supervisors to go round and see what the invigilators were doing in the examination halls.
Those apprehended would be taken through the rules and regulations of the examination and then reported to the GES as well.
Dr Wilson also advised candidates to adhere to the rules and regulations of the examination and not engage in any form of cheating since the questions were not beyond their reach as they were based on what they were taught in the syllabus.
“Normally, we brief the supervisors, and then we expect them to give the invigilators the necessary briefing that we have given to them.
So we will entreat the supervisors to do their work and do it well so that the exam can be written in a good atmosphere and with the correct arrangements,” she said.
Sharing her thoughts during her rounds, she said, “The exam is being conducted in a very good atmosphere.
The students are relaxed and I could see that some of them have learnt and were answering the questions, and the atmosphere too was relaxed”.
Timetable
Per the timetable for this year, candidates began the examination on Wednesday with Social Studies and Computing.
They wrote English Language and Career Technology yesterday, while Science and Ghanaian Language will be written today, June 13, 2025.
Mathematics and Religious and Moral Education are scheduled for Monday, June 16, 2025, while French, Creative Art and Design will be done on Tuesday and the last paper, Arabic, is on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
The BECE results are expected to be out by August 2025.
The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa, is expected to appear before Parliament this week to address concerns surrounding the unresolved parliamentary election in the Ablekuma North Constituency.
The constituency has remained without a Member of Parliament since the December 7 general elections due to a dispute over the collation of results from some polling centres.
The issue has stalled representation for constituents in the legislature for over six months.
On June 4, the Minority caucus formally petitioned the Ghana Police Service to provide adequate security to enable the Electoral Commission to complete the re-collation process safely and transparently.
Jean Mensa is scheduled to brief the Committee of the Whole in Parliament on the progress made so far in resolving the impasse.
Lawmakers are expected to seek clarity on the EC’s timeline for finalising the collation and declaring the outcome of the vote.
Wulensi NDC tensions escalate as suspended members demand reinstatement
play videoA photo collage of Obiri Boahen, Freddie Blay and John Mahama
Nana Obiri Boahen, a former Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has taken a swipe at former NPP National Chairman Freddie Blay for his recent remarks suggesting that President John Dramani Mahama could be eligible to contest the 2028 general elections.
Freddie Blay, in an interview, indicated that Mahama’s eligibility is ultimately a matter for judicial interpretation, although the final decision lies with the Ghanaian electorate.
“The law is in the bosom of the judges,” Blay stated.
“If it goes to the Supreme Court, which has the exclusive judicial right to interpret the Constitution and that body decides what it means by two terms, whether conservatively this or that, I don’t have a problem with it.”
He continued, “The law court does not vote for a president. The individuals who constitute a panel and may look at a case have only one vote each. It is the people of this country who will vote.”
However, Obiri Boahen disagreed with Blay’s stance, insisting that the 1992 Constitution is unambiguous on the matter and does not require further interpretation.
He argued that Mahama is constitutionally barred from contesting for the presidency again and accused Blay of misleading the public.
Speaking in an interview on Sompa FM, Obiri Boahen said, “He [Freddie Blay] should go and read the 1964 referendum. He should stop making the unnecessary noise and wasting our time. he should let our ears rest.
“There is no need for interpretation. You don’t go to the Supreme Court for interpretation on this. If he wants, he should go with Mahama to the court to seek interpretation that Mahama wants to contest again but I am saying Mahama cannot contest again. The law is very clear.”
Obiri Boahen criticised the president for even entertaining the idea of a return to power and accused the opposition of undermining the Chief Justice in the process.
“Mahama should not even nurse this idea. If that is the reason they want to sack the Chief Justice, then no matter what…she might go. “
“They should go back to the history books and look at what happened with Kwame Nkrumah and Acheampong what was the end result?”
He continued, “Freddie Blay should stop wasting our time. He should let our ears rest. This has to do with common sense: if you go for two terms as president, you cannot contest again.
“…if it is not about greed and selfishness Mahama wouldn’t even think about this.”
AM/KA
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In November 2022, global shocks pushed pump prices in Ghana to record highs. Diesel hit GH¢23 per litre and petrol GH¢17 at GOIL stations. The government blamed the Russia–Ukraine war, igniting a debate that continues to this day.
History may now be repeating itself, with blame shifting from Europe to the Middle East.
On Friday, June 14, Israel launched unprovoked airstrikes on Iran. The targets included senior military officials, nuclear sites, and missile infrastructure.
The assault follows nearly two decades of Israeli warnings over Iran’s uranium enrichment, which it says is central to a nuclear weapons programme.
Israel has long maintained it would not allow Iran to acquire that capability.
Iran insists its programme is peaceful and aimed at generating electricity. It says nuclear power will allow it to export more oil.
Israel claims Tehran is just months away from building a nuclear weapon and has acted accordingly.
Initial reports suggest the strikes killed top Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists.
Iran has since retaliated with missile launches into Israeli territory.
Oil Markets Panic. Ghana Braces
The escalation jolted oil markets. Brent crude rose more than 7% on Friday. That was the largest one-day gain since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
There is little sign of a quick resolution. Israel’s UN ambassador, Danny Danon, told Bloomberg the fighting could continue for weeks.
The economic fallout is already visible. Brent began the year at $74 a barrel, climbed to $81, then dropped to $60 by May. Over the same period, the cedi appreciated, supported by gold, cocoa and strong remittance inflows.
At the pumps, diesel and petrol are selling for under GH¢13 per litre in early June, down from GH¢16 in January.
Falling fuel costs had fed through to lower transport fares and food prices. Inflation fell to 18.4% in May, the lowest since February 2022.
But after the Israeli airstrikes, Crude prices quickly rebounded to $74 per barrel.
Iranian energy infrastructure is now also being targeted, and oil prices are expected to remain elevated as markets reopen. A further spike in price is possible if the fighting spreads.
The Middle East accounts for about 30% of global oil output, so any instability in the region risks disrupting supply.
One major risk is the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow shipping lane that handles about 25% of the world’s crude exports, mainly to Asia.
Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar all depend on the Strait to export crude.
Iran has often threatened to block the waterway, but has never done so. Bloomberg estimates a closure could push oil prices to $135 per barrel.
While the current surge is steep, the longer trend has been downward since late 2023. Brent peaked at $91 in September that year. OPEC oversupply and weak demand had kept prices soft, and unless the war escalates significantly, that trend could resume.
A shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz remains the most disruptive scenario, but it remains unlikely for now.
Fuel Levy Paused, Inflation Fears Grow
Nonetheless, oil prices are now returning to levels last seen in January 2025, when petrol and diesel were selling for nearly GH₵16 per litre at GOIL stations. The cedi, however, is significantly stronger now than it was then, but that may not be enough.
The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies had projected a 9% increase at the pumps starting today. This was due to both the crude rebound and a proposed GH¢1 increase in the Energy Sector Levy.
But in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, President Mahama instructed Energy Minister John Jinapor and Finance Minister Ato Forson to monitor developments closely and safeguard recent fuel price gains.
On Friday, the Energy and Finance Ministries, together with the Ghana Revenue Authority, officially postponed the levy’s implementation to shield consumers from further price shocks
The levy was expected to raise GH¢5.7 billion annually to buy light crude oil for thermal power. However, rising oil prices mean the same amount will now buy less.
Even if implemented, the levy is unlikely to fill the gap completely, especially if the conflict escalates further, further stressing the energy sector.
Gold Offers Some Cover — For Now
One source of relief is gold. On Friday, it rose to $3,432 per ounce. That is a daily increase of 1.37% and more than 30% up since January.
In global crises, investors usually flock to the US dollar and Treasuries. But with Donald Trump’s return stirring uncertainty, gold is outperforming. On Friday, both gold and the dollar rose. But gold gained more, signalling a shift in where investors feel safest.
The shift is not new. The European Union revealed that gold had overtaken the euro as the second most-held reserve asset by central banks in 2024, behind only the US dollar.
Ghana benefits directly. Higher gold prices boost export earnings and improve dollar inflows, which support the cedi.
Even so, the support is gradual. The cedi weakened slightly on Friday, slipping from GH¢10.25 to GH₵10.35 per dollar as oil shocks hit faster than gold flows.
If prices remain high, the Bank of Ghana may need to supply more dollars to Bulk Oil Distributors (BDCs). That would put pressure on foreign reserves.
If gold production and inflows remain strong, the situation should remain slightly manageable.
The Comeback of Inflation?
Delaying the fuel levy offers short-term relief but leaves a GH¢2.9 billion revenue gap for the second half of the year.
If the conflict escalates, especially if Iran blocks the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices could rise sharply. That would place Ghana’s fragile recovery at risk.
Inflation, now at a two-year low, may reverse course as fuel prices touch every part of the economy. Higher transport and input costs could drive up the price of food and utilities.
Many analysts had expected the PURC to announce a reduction in utility tariffs during its next quarterly review. This was based on the stronger cedi and falling crude prices recorded in May. That now appears unlikely.
A drawn-out conflict could lead to higher electricity and water bills, adding further pressure on households and inflation.
Rising fuel and food prices would also make it harder for the Bank of Ghana to meet its year-end inflation target of 11.9%.
Gold provides some cushion. Higher prices are boosting export earnings and helping to stabilise the cedi. But that support is limited if oil prices remain elevated.
Crude costs filter into nearly every import, from fertilisers and machinery to shipping and logistics. The result is higher prices across multiple sectors, even with strong gold inflows.
The vulnerability is partly self-inflicted as Ghana missed the opportunity to rebuild strategic oil reserves when crude was cheap. With no oil refinery running optimally, the country remains exposed unless structural fixes are made.
Oil export revenues may improve as a result of higher crude prices, but output has declined for five consecutive years. It remains unclear whether any windfall will be large enough to cover energy sector needs or generate enough foreign exchange to defend the currency.
Ghana cannot afford another oil shock like the one in 2022. What happens in the Middle East and how the government responds will shape the rest of 2025.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
By Joshua Worlasi AMLANU & Ebenezer Chike Adjei NJOKU
The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) is set to unveil a new investment fund structure to address prohibitive costs that have prevented small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from accessing public capital markets, Managing Director Abena Amoah has told B&FT.
The proposed SME fund, developed in partnership with specialist development outfit Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Africa, will pool investor capital and make it accessible to multiple small businesses, circumventing the expensive individual listing process that has rendered the Ghana Alternative Exchange (GAX) market ineffective since its launch.
Speaking in an exclusive sit-down, Ms. Amoah acknowledged that the current direct listing approach places an unsustainable financial burden on SMEs. For instance, a company seeking to raise GH¢10million through public offering could face professional service costs exceeding GH¢500,000 – representing at least 5 percent of the capital being raised.
“The process is currently very expensive for SMEs. They have to pay lawyers, external auditors, brokers to prepare prospectuses and regulatory fees. These advisors must work with companies for a minimum of one year and the GH¢500,000 in such an instance does not fully cover these costs,” she explained.
The cost structure has effectively priced out the target market, with many SMEs lacking dedicated staff to manage the complex listing requirements while simultaneously running their businesses. This has contributed to the GAX market’s underperformance compared to the main exchange, where established companies have attracted significant investor interest.
Launched in 2013, the GAX was designed to attract small and medium-sized enterprises by offering a more flexible regulatory framework and less onerous listing criteria than those imposed on the main exchange, but has so far struggled to do so.
Fund structure, timeline
Under the new structure, the SME fund will be listed on the exchange and raise capital from public investors. The fund will then invest in a portfolio of small businesses, with professional fund managers handling due diligence and ongoing monitoring.
Individual SMEs will access capital without facing direct listing requirements, while investors gain diversified exposure to the SME sector through a single listed security. The fund will report aggregated performance to the exchange and investors, similar to existing mutual fund structures.
“Instead of one company coming directly to raise GH¢10million, the fund can raise hundreds of millions and pool the costs,” Ms. Amoah explained.
“Companies accessing the fund won’t need to report directly to the GSE – the fund will handle that through aggregated reporting,” she added.
The exchange expects to implement the fund structure in the near future – though specific timelines depend on finalising arrangements with FSD Africa and obtaining necessary regulatory approvals.
Alternative solutions
The exchange is simultaneously developing a streamlined direct access route for SMEs, allowing companies to raise capital through simplified processes requiring basic information rather than full prospectuses.
This staged approach will enable companies to prove their market credibility over time, with the possibility of accessing additional capital through graduated requirements as they demonstrate performance and growth.
The exchange has identified approximately ten companies currently working with stakeholders to prepare for market entry through various structures.
Market context
The SME funding challenge reflects broader structural issues in Ghana’s capital markets. Debt financing dominates the space, with bank loans averaging 27-28 percent interest rates contributing to high non-performing loan (NPLs) ratios as companies become over-leveraged.
This mirrors global patterns, where debt capital markets typically exceed equity markets. In Europe, debt markets represent approximately 70 percent of total capital markets compared to 30 percent for equity. However, Ghana’s high cost of debt financing makes equity alternatives particularly important for business sustainability.
The exchange has identified several SME categories with strong retail investor appeal, including food and beverage companies, fashion brands and educational institutions. These consumer-facing businesses benefit from brand recognition that creates emotional connections with potential investors.
Broader strategic vision
The SME fund represents part of a broader strategy to create a comprehensive capital ecosystem serving businesses from start-up through maturity. The exchange recognises that different capital sources – venture capital, private equity and public markets – serve distinct phases of business development.
The GSE focuses on companies with established cash flows and proven business models, requiring basic governance structures and profitability track records. This positions the exchange to serve the mature end of the business lifecycle, complementing rather than competing with venture capital and private equity.
Ms. Amoah stressed that the fund structure will provide both capital access and governance benefits, helping SMEs develop transparency and reporting standards which enable further growth and potential graduation to the main market.
“We offer two things: capital and governance transparency. We believe these together allow businesses to scale effectively,” she noted.
This initiative comes as the main exchange experiences increased investor interest – driven by attractive valuations and strong financial performance from listed companies, particularly in the banking sector and gold-related investments.
The exchange’s last initial public offering occurred in 2018, with Kasapreko recently announcing plans for a listing this year. The SME fund structure could help address the limited supply of investment opportunities that has concentrated investor interest on existing securities.
GAX Performance
On the GAX, Samba Foods – a wholly Ghanaian-owned producer in the condiments and seasoning segment – has traded flat at GH¢0.55 since August 2029. Meridian Marshall Holdings, an education services provider focused on post-secondary, career-oriented training, remained unchanged at GH¢0.11 from its 2015 listing until a marginal dip of 0.01 pesewas in January 2024. It has since held steady at GH¢0.10.
Agro-processor Hords Ltd. GH has traded at GH¢0.10 since April 2026, while DigiCut Production & Advertising Limited has remained at GH¢0.09 since December 2018.
Intravenous Infusions Limited saw a modest uptick from GH¢0.04 to GH¢0.05 in December 2023 and has held that level since.
Pesewa One, the GAX’s most recent entrant, delisted on 29 September 2023 after shareholders approved the transfer of its assets to a newly formed Delaware-based entity – Pesewa ONE Franchise.
Avengers: Doomsday is one of the most hotly anticipated Marvel movies. Its gigantic cast, which includes several returning MCU and X-Men cast members, has fans excited to check out the next Avengers movie. It will also be the MCU debut of the fan-favorite Marvel Comics villain Doctor Doom, who will be portrayed by Robert Downey Jr.
Ghana’s media landscape is facing renewed scrutiny following an order by the National Communications Authority (NCA) for 62 radio stations to cease broadcasting. The directive, issued on 12 June, cites breaches of the Electronic Communications Act, including expired licences and failure to meet authorisation requirements.
The move sparked swift intervention from former President John Dramani Mahama, who described the shutdowns as excessive and potentially harmful to press freedom. He directed the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation to work with the NCA to restore affected broadcasts and allow for regularisation.
“Radio is a vital platform for free expression,” Mahama’s office stated. “Compliance should not override the democratic imperative of open public discourse.” The Ministry gave affected stations a 30-day grace period to address outstanding licensing issues. However, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has criticised the approach as hasty and lacking transparency.
While the MFWA acknowledges the NCA’s mandate to regulate, it warns that selective or politically influenced enforcement could damage the credibility of the regulatory framework. The absence of published audit reports, minimal stakeholder consultation, and unclear criteria have heightened suspicions of bias.
This is not the first time such actions have caused concern. Similar shutdowns in 2019 and February 2025—some targeting stations perceived as opposition-aligned—sparked backlash over fairness and consistency. The MFWA has urged authorities to adopt a more collaborative approach, involving broadcasters in discussions and allowing sufficient time for compliance. It argues that regulation should serve both legal standards and democratic values.
In the meantime, the organisation calls on all affected stations to fulfil their obligations and avoid future sanctions. The situation continues to unfold, with media observers watching closely to see if a balance between regulation and freedom of expression can be achieved in practice—not just in principle.
President John Mahama has announced plans to construct a new Trauma and Emergency Centre as part of an ambitious expansion project for the Walewale Government Hospital in the North East Region.
The announcement, made during a community engagement in Nalerigu, is part of the President’s renewed healthcare agenda aimed at addressing infrastructure deficits in underserved regions.
But it has also sparked controversy for seemingly sidelining a major hospital project initiated by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
“We are seeking funding for the expansion of the Walewale Municipal Hospital,” President Mahama said.
“We want to add a trauma and emergency centre to take responsibility for any accidents that happen on the Tamale–Bolga road corridor.”
He also revealed plans to improve existing infrastructure at the Walewale hospital, including staff accommodation and water systems, to support the new emergency centre.
However, the announcement has raised concerns over the fate of an earlier, similar initiative by Dr. Bawumia.
That project — a 100-bed specialised hospital near Loagri, along the Tamale–Walewale–Bolgatanga road — was started in 2019 with funding from the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).
It was expected to be completed by 2020, but construction stalled and the facility remains abandoned.
The Bawumia-initiated hospital was designed to include modern units such as a pharmacy, physiotherapy department, general laboratory, radiology lab, eye and dental clinics, a Clinical Specialists Unit, operating theatre, ICU, obstetrics and gynecology unit, medical wards, a mortuary, central sterilization unit, laundry, dining hall, and cutting-edge medical equipment.
President Mahama’s announcement also included plans for a new district hospital in Yunyoo, even though a similar facility had already been initiated under the NPP government’s Agenda 111 programme.
That project now appears to be on the verge of neglect, based on the President’s remarks.
The developments reflect a growing pattern of project discontinuity between successive administrations, with political rivalries threatening to overshadow critical healthcare needs in vulnerable communities.
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Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, has defended the prosecutorial approach under his boss, Dr. Dominic Ayine, insisting that the new Attorney General will not bow to political or public pressure in the pursuit of justice.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Wednesday, Dr. Srem Sai declared that Dr. Ayine “will not trade anything for the position of the law.”
In a wide-ranging conversation, the Deputy AG said he accepted his appointment with a clear understanding of the weight of public expectation.
“I felt the weight of expectation of Ghanaians upon my appointment,” he said. “But one thing that made me happy about this was my boss.”
Dr. Srem Sai described Dr. Ayine as a man of deep principle and legal discipline.
“I have known him for several years since law school. He taught me constitutional law, administrative law and natural resource law. He is a very diligent man.”
He stressed that Dr. Ayine will never take a case to court unless the evidence is solid.
“He will not persecute anybody,” he said.
“He will not go to court unless he has sufficient evidence to convince himself that prosecution may be successful. That’s not to say he expects a conviction every time, but at least he believes there is a strong case.”
Dr. Srem Sai pointed out that this legal discipline gives him confidence.
“So with that guidance, or the person who is leading the Attorney General’s department, I became very comfortable with the appointment,” he said.
He admitted that the work has been challenging.
“So far, it’s not been easy,” he said. “And I’m sure you know and you can see from my eyes — I hardly sleep.”
His remarks come amid growing debate over whether recent high-profile prosecutions are politically motivated.
Dr. Srem Sai dismissed those concerns and emphasised that the Attorney General’s office is focused on legality, not vendetta.
“He is not going to bend the law for anybody. And he is not going to pursue a case because of media pressure or noise.”
He insisted that decisions at the Attorney General’s Department are guided by the law and not public opinion.
“What we do is look at the law and the evidence. That is our threshold. Nothing more, nothing less.”
Asked whether he felt under pressure due to public scrutiny, Dr. Srem Sai was candid.
“Yes, we are under the pressure of responsibility.”
He said the public must have faith in the system. “We are not going to be swayed by the politics. We are going to do what the law says. That’s our oath.”
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Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin is demanding the immediate and total repeal of the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025, popularly called the “Dumsor Levy”.
The Effutu MP insists that the government’s indefinite postponement of its implementation is an insulting half-measure.
“This postponement is not a solution. It is a shameful retreat that exposes this government’s incompetence and hypocrisy,” he declared in a statement on Saturday.
The Ghana Revenue Authority had announced that the levy’s implementation, originally scheduled for June 16, had been indefinitely postponed after consultations.
But Afenyo-Markin says this only proves how poorly planned and badly executed the policy is.
“It shows they didn’t consult properly. They rushed the law, and now they’re forced to backtrack. That’s trial-and-error governance,” he said.
He accused the government of doing the very thing it once criticised.
“This is the same administration that berated us for pointing to global shocks like COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war. Now they are using the Middle East crisis as an excuse? That is the height of political dishonesty.”
Mr Afenyo-Markin didn’t hold back on what he sees as betrayal.
“President Mahama promised to bring relief, not more taxes. Yet here we are, with a government that wants to tax fuel during an economic crisis. It’s unacceptable.”
The Minority is not impressed with the reasoning behind the levy.
The government had claimed the funds would help stabilise the power sector and service legacy debts.
But Mr Afenyo-Markin said this justification is hollow.
“Akufo-Addo ran a stable power sector without burdening Ghanaians with more taxes. Why can’t this government do the same?”
He stressed that the postponement is a diversion.
“Don’t use the delay to buy time or blame the power crisis on our call to repeal the law. The worsening dumsor is your doing, not because the tax is suspended.”
He pointed to deep-rooted problems at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) as the real issue.
“There are expired meters still in use. People are consuming power without paying because of defective systems. It’s not tax money we need — it’s reforms.”
He called out the Ministry of Energy for abandoning the Loss Reduction Programme that was designed under the Akufo-Addo administration.
“You have companies ready to supply meters, but the programme is frozen. Meanwhile, communities are crying for meters. Where is the leadership?”
The Minority Leader insists Parliament must be brought back to repeal the levy without delay.
“We demand a certificate of urgency to reverse this cruel policy completely. Any half measure will not be accepted — not by us, not by the people.”
He ended with a call to Ghanaians to “Join us in resisting this wicked levy. We cannot allow this government to break its promises and worsen our pain.”
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MI6 will be led by a woman for the first time in the foreign intelligence service’s 116-year history.
Blaise Metreweli, who joined the Secret Intelligence Service in 1999, will become the 18th chief of the organisation and take over from Sir Richard Moore later this year.
She is currently responsible for technology and innovation at the service and said she was “proud and honoured” to have been asked to lead.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the appointment “historic” at a time “when the work of our intelligence services has never been more vital”.
MI6 is tasked with gathering intelligence overseas to improve the UK’s security, with its core aims being to stop terrorism, disrupt the activities of hostile states, and bolster cybersecurity.
Its chief, commonly referred to as ‘C’, is the only publicly named member of the service.
Ms Metreweli, 47, is currently Director General ‘Q’ – head of the crucial technology and innovation division that aims to keep the identities of secret agents secret, and come up with new ways to evade adversaries like China’s biometric surveillance.
“MI6 plays a vital role – with MI5 and GCHQ – in keeping the British people safe and promoting UK interests overseas,” she said.
“I look forward to continuing that work alongside the brave officers and agents of MI6 and our many international partners.”
Ms Metreweli, who studied anthropology at the University of Cambridge, has previously held director level roles in MI5 – MI6’s sister, domestic security agency – and spent most of her career working in the Middle East and Europe.
On the King’s overseas and international birthday honours list in 2024, she received the Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) for her services to British foreign policy.
Speaking to the Telegraph in December 2021 when she was at MI5, under the pseudonym of “Director K”, Ms Metreweli said threats to UK national security “really are diverse”.
“The threats we are looking at primarily exist around protecting government, protecting secrets, protecting our people – so counter-assassination – protecting our economy, sensitive technology and critical knowledge,” she said.
She added that “Russian state activity – not Russia itself – remains a threat” and that China was “changing the way the world is and that presents amazing opportunities and threats for the UK”.
The organisation she will be running faces unprecedented and multiple challenges.
Geographically, these emanate primarily from Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, as the four nations co-operate ever more closely to undermine UK and Western interests across the globe.
But there are technical challenges too.
MI6’s role is to recruit human agents to steal secrets from Britain’s adversaries, which include both hostile nations and non-state groups like al-Qaeda.
In an age of rapid digital innovation, MI6 is having to pedal ever faster to stay ahead of its enemies and to remain relevant, when so much intelligence is now gathered online and from space.
Last September, outgoing chief Sir Richard – alongside then-CIA chief William Burns – warned that the international world was “under threat in a way we haven’t seen since the Cold War”.
Writing in the Financial Times, the pair said that beyond the war in Ukraine, the two foreign intelligence services were continuing to “work together to disrupt the reckless campaign of sabotage across Europe being waged by Russian intelligence”.
Sir Richard and Mr Burns added that they saw the rise of China as the main intelligence and geopolitical challenge of the century. They also said they had pushed “hard” for restraint and de-escalation in the Middle East.
On Sunday, Sir Richard, who will step down in the autumn after five years in the role, said he was “absolutely delighted” with the “historic appointment” of his colleague.
“Blaise is a highly accomplished intelligence officer and leader, and one of our foremost thinkers on technology,” he said.
“I am excited to welcome her as the first female head of MI6.”
Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who Ms Metreweli will be accountable to as MI6’s new chief, said she was the “ideal” candidate and will ensure the UK is able to tackle the challenges of “global instability and emerging security threats”.
“I would also like to pay tribute to Sir Richard Moore for his service and leadership,” he said.
“I have worked closely with him over the past year and thank him for his valuable contribution enhancing our national security and protecting the British public.”
Sir Keir also thanked Sir Richard for his “dedicated service”.
“I know Blaise will continue to provide the excellent leadership needed to defend our county and keep our people safe,” he added.
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Arsenal and Ghana midfield maestro Thomas Teye Partey etched his name into the history books last Saturday night after being crowned Footballer of the Year for a record third time at the 2025 Ghana Football Awards in Accra.
The midfield enforcer, who first clinched the top prize in 2018 and 2019, completed his awards hat-trick in front of a star-studded audience — a fitting tribute to a stellar season that saw him play a key role in Arsenal’s journey to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and their second-place finish in the English Premier League.
Partey also stood tall in the national colours, delivering commanding performances for the Black Stars in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
He edged out strong competition from Athletic Bilbao’s Inaki Williams, whose impressive form in the spanish La Liga made him a serious contender for the honour.
But it was Partey’s leadership, consistency and impact across club and country that ultimately won him the votes — and he didn’t walk away with just one trophy.
Veteran sports journalist, Ken Bediako, is flanked by Herbert Mensah (left) and Harry Zakkour (right) to display the living Legends awards
The former Atlético Madrid star also scooped the Football for Good award, jointly with Brighton and Ghana wing-back, Tariq Lamptey, in recognition of their philanthropic work off the pitch.
Gracious in victory, Partey thanked fans and paid tribute to his fellow professionals.
“First of all, I want to thank the organisers — this is the third time and I really appreciate it,” he said after receiving the trophy from the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams.
“I also thank everyone who voted for me. I know it’s not easy; I’ve got so many teammates who deserve this too. I’m not the only one playing well. But I love it, and I’m grateful.”
Now in its seventh year, the Ghana Football Awards once again delivered a glittering celebration of the nation’s footballing excellence, honouring standout performers across 16 categories.
Hearts of Oak’s rising star Benjamin Asare was named Goalkeeper of the Year after breaking into the Black Stars setup, while former Black Queens forward Doris Boaduwaa took home Female Footballer of the Year honours.
In-form Nations FC attacker Razak Simpson was the night’s big local winner, scooping Home-Based Footballer of the Year and Goal of the Year for his sensational strike against Hearts of Oak.
Black Stars legend and Sudan coach Kwasi Appiah was recognised as Men’s Coach of the Year, with Women’s Coach of the Year going to Abu Kassim.
In a moment that warmed hearts, legendary administrators Harry Zakkour and Herbert Mensah — former rival CEOs at Hearts and Kotoko — were jointly honoured as Living Legends, alongside celebrate veteran sports journalist, Ken Bediako.
The ceremony also recognised passionate fans, with a posthumous Special Fans Award given to Francis Yaw Frimpong, affectionately known as ‘Pooley’ of Asante Kotoko.
Delivering a passionate speech, Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams praised the organisers for consistently spotlighting excellence and urged the corporate sector to support football’s revival.
“Football is more than just a sport,” he said. “Government is committed to working with stakeholders to invest in infrastructure, funding and reforms to help clubs retain players longer — not just for quick transfers.”
He added: “I salute our club owners and managers. Your commitment is the backbone of our local game. I urge corporate Ghana to partner events like this to drive progress and passion in our football.”
Full List of Winners – Ghana Football Awards 2025
Footballer of the Year: Thomas Partey Women’s Footballer of the Year: Doris Boaduwaa Best African International Footballer: Achraf Hakimi Men’s Coach of the Year: Kwasi Appiah Women’s Coach of the Year: Abu Kassim Goalkeeper of the year: Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare Home-Based Male Player of the Year: Razak Simpson Home-Based Female Player of the Year: Mary Berkoe Goal of the Year: Razak Simpson (vs Hearts of Oak) Most Vibrant Club on Social Media: Medeama SC Male Team of the Year: Bibiani Gold Stars Female Team of the Year: Police Ladies Best Club CEO: John Peter Amewu (Hohoe United) Living Legend Awards: Harry Zakkour, Herbert Mensah, Ken Bediako Football for Good Award: Thomas Partey & Tariq Lamptey Odartey Lamptey Future Star Award: Jerry Afriyie Special Fans Award: Late Francis Yaw Frimpong (Pooley, Asante Kotoko)
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has published a list of 25 newly approved private Senior High Schools (SHSs) now available for selection by Junior High School (JHS) students.
This announcement comes alongside an extension of the school selection deadline to Wednesday, 25th June 2025, allowing students more time to consider their options.
“This extension ensures candidates have ample opportunity to make informed decisions,” said Prince D. Agyemang-Duah, Director of the Schools and Instructions Division, in an official statement. “We encourage students and parents to review the new additions carefully.”
In the notice signed by Mr. Agyemang-Duah, the GES emphasized: “This extension will allow students and parents to carefully consider these new options before making their final selections.”
The newly approved private schools span across all regions, including notable institutions such as Gulf College Japan in the Greater Accra Region, Watkins Academy in the Volta Region, and Golden Gate SHS in the Western Region. A full list of the approved schools is available for reference.
Regional Directors of Education have been directed to promptly disseminate this information to all JHS heads.
The GES further noted that while new options have been added, all existing selection guidelines remain unchanged.
“Students are strongly advised to consult with their teachers and parents to make the best possible choice during this extended period,” the notice concluded.
Players of Bibiani Gold Stars celebrating their victory with the trophy
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Bibiani Gold Stars were officially crowned champions of the Ghana Premier League last Saturday following their goalless draw against Medeama SC at Dun’s Park.
The coronation marked a historic moment for the Bibiani-based side, securing their first league title in their 27 years of existence.
Gold Stars’ triumph was all but assured a week earlier, when a dominant 4–0 home win over relegated Accra Lions confirmed their place at the summit of Ghanaian football.
The match against Medeama was more than just a formality — it was a day of celebration for the team, their fans, and the entire town of Bibiani.
Supporters filled Dun’s Park and the surrounding streets in their green and yellow colors, singing, dancing, and cheering a remarkable journey that has captured the imagination of fans across the country.
MP for Bibiani Anhwiaso Berkwai, Bright Asamoah Brefo, fulfills his promise by presenting GH¢50,000 to the team
Led by captain Yakubu Dzia Ull-Haqq and head coach Frimpong Manso, Gold Stars received their trophy in a festive ceremony amid fireworks and cheers from passionate supporters.
The final whistle triggered a carnival-like atmosphere that stretched into the evening, reflecting a deep sense of community and accomplishment.
With the domestic crown secured, Gold Stars now turn their sights toward the continental stage. As champions of Ghana, they will represent the country in the preliminary rounds of the 2025–26 CAF Champions League, eager to make their mark in Africa’s elite club competition.
For now, the town of Bibiani is basking in a moment of glory — a triumph forged through perseverance, unity, and hard work — as Gold Stars celebrate their first-ever Premier League title.
Coach Frimpong Manso of Bibiani Gold Stars receiving his medal from Oduro Sarfo (right)
A hotly contested stoppage-time penalty awarded by referee Selorm Bless Yaw proved decisive as Kumasi Asante Kotoko edged second-tier Golden Kick SC 2-1 to clinch the 2024/25 MTN FA Cup at the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon yesterday.
With the match poised at 1-1 and seemingly heading for extra time, the Porcupine Warriors launched a final attack that ended in controversy. Kwame Opoku, Kotoko’s leading marksman, broke through on goal and collided with Golden Kick goalkeeper Kelvin Kofi Saaba inside the penalty box.
Penalty controversy
The referee initially appeared to wave play on, suggesting a clean challenge, but moments later stunned the stadium by pointing to the spot, sparking outrage from Golden Kick players, officials and fans alike.
The play was delayed for several minutes as furious protests ensued. But once calm was restored, Opoku stepped up and coolly sent Saaba the wrong way to fire Kotoko ahead deep into injury time, amid a chorus of boos from the crowd.
The late goal sealed Kotoko’s 10th FA Cup triumph and brought an end to the fairytale run of Golden Kick, who had defied the odds to reach the final from Ghana’s Division One League.
Determined not to suffer another giant killing like their infamous 2011 final loss to Nania FC, Kotoko asserted early dominance with slick possession and quick interchanges.
Golden Kick, however, remained disciplined and dangerous on the break, nearly drawing first blood in the 14th minute when a blistering counter-attack forced a crucial save from Kotoko’s goalkeeper, who required treatment after the clash.
Kotoko responded minutes later, winning a free-kick on the right flank. Lord Amoah delivered a pinpoint ball into the box, which was flicked on by Joseph Ablorh into a packed goalmouth. Amid the scramble, Kwame Opoku rose highest to head home the opener, sending the Kotoko faithful into raptures.
Spirited fight back
But the underdogs refused to lie down. Spurred on by the setback, Golden Kick grew into the game and mounted pressure on the Kotoko defence.
Their efforts paid off in the 30th minute when the impressive Bless Ege curled a sublime free-kick into the top corner, levelling the scores and stunning the Kotoko supporters into silence.
Kotoko’s Albert Amoah (left) gains the upperhand during a pursuit for the ball with his Golden Kick marker
Golden Kick nearly snatched the lead just before half-time, but again the Kotoko shot-stopper was equal to the task.
The second half offered a cagey affair, with both sides probing for an opening. While Kotoko enjoyed more attacking forays, Golden Kick matched them stride for stride, showing composure, organisation and flashes of brilliance on the ball.
As full-time approached, Kotoko missed a golden opportunity to settle the tie. Opoku, once again the architect, glided through midfield and squared to Peter Amidu Acquah, who narrowly missed the target with the keeper beaten. Moments later, Gilbani Dongani Samba skied an effort from close range after a goalmouth scramble.
Just when extra time seemed inevitable, came the game’s most decisive—and debated—moment. Opoku’s darting run and the ensuing contact with Saaba saw referee Yaw reverse his decision and point to the spot, much to the disbelief of Golden Kick.
Opoku, unfazed by the pressure and protests, dispatched the penalty to snatch a dramatic win and deliver the 10th FA Cup to Kotoko while breaking the hearts of the Division One side that had won many admirers throughout the competition.
For Kotoko, it was redemption after failing to win the Premier League title. For Golden Kick, it was heartbreak, but their spirited performance will long be remembered as one of the great FA Cup stories in recent Ghanaian football history.
Ghanaian gospel musician Broda Sammy has once again stirred controversy after performing a secular song during a church event.
The outspoken and unconventional worship minister surprised many when he took the microphone at Prophetess Mama Vida’s birthday celebration on Sunday, June 15, 2025, and delivered a rendition of King Paluta’s hit song “FOKO.”
The event, held at the Vida Bethel Prayer Center, saw church members and guests erupt in cheers and applause as Broda Sammy began singing.
Some worshippers were seen lifting their hands in joy while echoing the song’s catchy chorus.
Broda Sammy, born Samuel Opoku, has in recent years gained a reputation for bridging the gap between secular and gospel music in ways that challenge traditional norms.
It should be noted that this is not the first time Broda Sammy has reimagined a secular tune. He previously made headlines for performing “Grace” by Amerado and Lasmid, and has also been spotted at several worship events covering classics by Daddy Lumba, Amakye Dede, and even Shatta Wale.
President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Finance and Energy Ministers to take action to protect the gains gained in reducing petroleum product costs, as escalating tensions between Iran and Israel have started to raise the price of crude oil.
During his June 14 Thank You Tour of the Savannah Region, President Mahama praised Ghana’s recent efforts to stabilize its economy but also issued a warning about the potential effects of world events.
“Despite the work we have done in stabilising the economy, Ghana is not immune from the shocks of global events,” President Mahama said.
According to him, the recent missile strike between Iran and Israel has caused a significant spike in the price of crude oil, which will probably undermine Ghana’s efforts to lower the cost of petroleum goods.
“Recent events in the Middle East, which involve an exchange of missiles between Israel and Iran, have started to escalate crude oil prices dramatically.
“I’ve asked our Minister of Finance and Minister of Energy to keep a close eye on the development and model the possible impacts on our petroleum prices and prepare measures to protect the recent gains that we have made,” he added.
When the policemen came for Albert Ojwang, the Kenyan blogger whose death in custody sparked protests this week and prompted a rare acknowledgement of police brutality by the president, his wife initially thought he would be safe.
Unlike the dozens of political activists abducted by suspected security agents over the last year, the 31-year-old schoolteacher was taken to a police station, and officers shared their phone numbers with his family.
“When they came, they were so soft. They were not violent,” said Nevnine Onyango, who was present when the officers arrived, accusing her husband of insulting their “boss”. “So that is what gave me even more confidence.”
The next morning, a family member called with the news that Ojwang, the father of their three-year-old son, was dead.
In the week since, the blogger’s death has become a lightning rod in a nation just one year removed from mass youth-led protests that were fuelled, in part, by disgust at pervasive police violence.
Hundreds took to the streets of the capital Nairobi this week, with vehicles set ablaze and the police responding with teargas.
Demonstrators cited Ojwang’s death as evidence that nothing had changed one year after more than 60 people were killed during protests initially sparked by proposed tax hikes.
Ojwang was arrested in Homa Bay, in western Kenya, as part of an investigation triggered by a formal complaint from the deputy chief of the national police force, Eliud Lagat, according to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, Kenya’s government-funded police watchdog.
Lagat had stated he was the target of alleged false and malicious information published on the social media platform X, IPOA said.
Kenya’s police chief initially implied that Ojwang had died by suicide but later apologised after an autopsy found that his wounds – including a head injury, neck compression and soft tissue damage – pointed to assault as the cause of death.
President William Ruto said on Wednesday that Ojwang had died “at the hands of the police”, which he said was “heartbreaking and unacceptable”.
Three people have so far been arrested in the case: the policeman in charge of the police station in Nairobi where Ojwang was found dead, a police constable and a closed-circuit television technician at the station.
Reuters was not able to reach Lagat for comment. A police spokesperson said Ojwang’s death resulted from a crime committed by “a couple of individuals” who are not representative of the national police service.
“We want to see justice served,” the spokesperson said.
SUPPOSED TO PROTECT, NOT HARM
It is not clear what Ojwang posted that got the attention of the police. His social media accounts no longer appear to be active.
According to IPOA, which is investigating his death, Lagat’s complaint triggered a probe that led to the arrest of another blogger.
Interrogations of that blogger identified Ojwang as a person of interest, IPOA said.
And so, last Saturday at lunchtime, police officers arrived at Ojwang’s home on motorcycles.
“There are some remarks that he had made about their boss, that the boss is corrupt,” his wife Onyango said they told him. They did not identify their boss.
They first took Ojwang to the local police station before telling his family they would transfer him to Nairobi, nearly 300 km (185 miles) away, she said.
She last heard from him at around 9 p.m. (1800 GMT) the Saturday of his arrest when he called her from Nairobi’s Central Police Station. She said he sounded worried and asked if she would be able to come to the city.
Onyango is now hoping for answers – and accountability – from IPOA’s investigation.
“We always see these things on television, and it actually reached my door,” she said of police abuses. “These people are supposed to protect us. They’re not supposed to harm us.”
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Foreign investors have pulled $3.7 billion out of South African equities since October in the longest such streak of outflows in five years, a report showed, as the continent’s biggest equity market struggles to attract international portfolio flows.
International investor confidence in stocks listed in Africa’s most industrialised economy has been fragile for years, with equities having suffered annual outflows since 2022, calculations by the Institute of International Finance show.
But the latest streak marks a sharp acceleration, coming in at double the $1.9 billion of outflows across 2023 and 2024, the IIF said.
South Africa is at risk of missing out on moves by global fund managers reallocating into regions outside of the U.S. without growth, said analysts, even as stocks trade at discount prices.
“Investors are looking to diversify outside of the U.S., but that doesn’t automatically make South Africa a primary destination,” said Graham Tucker, portfolio manager at Old Mutual Investment Group.
The local market was “relatively cheap”, he added, but that reflected a decade of declining per capita income and depressed growth.
Emerging stocks as a global asset class have suffered outflows more widely since October. But that changed in May when major emerging stock markets from Brazil to Turkey and from Taiwan to South Korea attracted fresh inflows, according to IIF data.
Latin American countries are especially well-placed to benefit from the U.S. market shifts.
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange has also seen higher volumes of investments in recent weeks, but rising purchases are matched by rising sales, the bourse’s data shows.
South African equities have delivered a 29% return in dollar terms year-to-date, placing them among the top five performers globally behind only Greece, Spain, Germany, and Italy, Bank of America said.
The lines chart shows the year-to-date trend in purchases and sales of South African stocks by offshore investors.
In the week to last Friday, non-residents bought more than 30 billion rand in South African stocks, the highest weekly value in years, but that also coincided with heavy selling of 24.70 billion, the JSE data shows.
So far this year, non-residents have been net sellers of $5.9 billion, a billion more compared to the same period in 2024.
“Foreign investors, if anything, behave like tourists. They will come for a trade, especially in gold stocks when the commodity runs, but they won’t stay without long-term policy certainty,” said Tucker.
Higher offshore volumes mostly reflect global uncertainties, as the country’s growth fundamentals have not improved significantly, Nedbank economist Isaac Matshego said.
Data from the country’s statistics agency showed last week that the country’s gross domestic product stagnated in the first quarter, mainly owing to six straight months of contractions in the mining and manufacturing sectors.
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Mariah Carey has been praised by fans as she performed her biggest hits at Wembley Arena on Sunday for Capital’s Summertime Ball.
The music legend, 56, was one of the headline acts for this year’s concert and didn’t disappoint.
Appearing on stage, Mariah showed off her incredible physique in a figure-hugging black mini playsuit with black tights.
Mariah closed the ball, and kicked off her setlist with her 1995 hit Fantasy, before Emotions and Hero.
The diva then serenaded the crowd with Always Be My Baby as well as Type Dangerous, Touch My Body and It’s Like That.
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Mariah Carey has been praised by fans as she performed her biggest hits at Wembley Arena on Sunday for Capital’s Summertime Ball
The music legend, 56, was one of the headline acts for this year’s concert and didn’t appear to disappoint as fans flocked to social media
Appearing on stage, Mariah showed off her incredible physique in a figure-hugging black playsuit with black tights
The All I Want For Christmas singer brought the Summertime Ball to a close with her 2005 single We Belong Together.
Reacting to her live performance, Mariah was showered in praise by fans who claimed it was her ‘best vocals in years’.
Taking to social media, one concert-goer said: ‘Mariah at the #SummerTimeBall – best live vocals from her in years…and hit after hit after hit. Bring on Brighton Pride.’
A second posted: ‘Mariah killed it at the #Summertimeball looking and sounding incredible.’
While a third enthusiastic fan wrote: ‘MARIAH F****** CAREY What a performance! Omg! NO ONE can say s**t! That voice is HEALTHY, confidence is BACK, and baby that mic was ON!’
It comes after fans had claimed Mariah had been ‘replaced by AI’.
She returned to the music scene with a new rap single last week called Type Dangerous, but a lot of fans have pointed out that Mimi sounds different compared to before.
‘Is it just me or it doesn’t sound like Mariah at all,’ asked one confused listener.
Reacting to her live performance, Mariah was showered in praise by fans who claimed it was her ‘best vocals in years’.
‘Is it just me or does Mariah’s new song sound like a JLo song? Also… she sounds nothing like herself, the overproduction is weird. Doesn’t sound like her even a little,’ wrote another.
A third wrote, ‘Now who is singing bc that doesn’t sound like Mariah.’
However, other fans argued that the talented vocalist was just using a different style of singing.
It comes after Mariah left some of her Australian fans confused after appearing disinterested as she sat down for an interview with The Project.
The pop diva gave a series of short answers, sometimes uttering single word reposes in a bored monotone while speaking with host Georgie Tunny.
When asked how she handles criticism, Mariah replied simply: ‘By not coping is what I do.’
After a pause she continued: ‘I mean, just don’t pay attention to it, you know? And everybody else goes through it, so… whatever.’
The singer was also asked what she’d like on her tour rider for her upcoming Aussie tour, to which Mariah oddly replied in deadpan: ‘A kangaroo.’
President John Mahama has ordered the military to ensure the safe passage of goods and passengers along the Bolgatanga–Bawku–Pulmakom road in the Upper East Region.
This is a vital trade route linking northern Ghana to Burkina Faso and Togo.
The directive follows rising security threats and disruptions on the corridor.
The President’s order responds to concerns raised by the Overlord of Mamprugu, Naa Bohaga Abdulai Mahami, during Mahama’s recent visit to the region.
The Overlord expressed frustration over the absence of security escorts for Mamprusi residents and traders travelling to Bawku, contrasting it with the heavy military presence accompanying Kusasi vehicles through Walewale and other routes.
“This apparent imbalance in the treatment of citizens is not only disheartening, but it also risks derailing the delicate peace efforts we have all been working so hard to sustain,” Naa Bohaga stated, calling for equal protection for all communities.
Tensions have escalated since the establishment of a new Kusasi market in Bawku, which has triggered a wave of banditry and attacks on Mamprusi traders along the Bolgatanga–Bawku–Pulmakom and Bawku–Missiga–Kulungugu highways.
In September 2023, nine Mamprusi traders were killed near Pusiga. An operative of the Defence Intelligence Unit was also killed near Missiga, prompting brutal retaliatory attacks on Kusasi travellers, vehicles, and other targets in Walewale.
Since early June 2025, more than 40 Mamprusi cargo trucks transporting perishable goods have been stranded in Bolgatanga for nearly a month, awaiting security escorts. Authorities had yet to respond.
The Overlord demanded urgent action: immediate security escorts for the trucks, clear communication from the Regional Coordinating Council and Ghana Police Service, and a long-term plan to secure movement in conflict-prone areas.
In response, President Mahama ordered the military to deploy and provide protection for all vehicles travelling through the Bawku–Pulmakom–Bolgatanga and Walewale–Bolgatanga corridors.
“As Commander-in-Chief, I’ve instructed the Armed Forces to provide armed escort and protection to all vehicles travelling within the Bawku area and along the Bawku–Pulmakom–Bolgatanga corridor, and also along the Walewale–Bolgatanga corridor,” President Mahama stated.
Military deployment is to begin immediately. The Ghana Armed Forces, working with regional security agencies, will establish checkpoints, intensify patrols, and offer escort services for high-risk convoys using the corridor.
Local leaders and residents have welcomed the intervention. Alhaji Ibrahim Musah, a transport union representative in Bawku, described the move as timely.
“The insecurity has been hurting businesses and endangering lives. We thank the President for listening and acting decisively,” he said.
The Bolgatanga–Bawku–Pulmakom road remains a critical artery for trade and cross-border movement.
With instability across the wider Sahel region threatening to spill over, the government’s swift military response is being seen as vital to protecting both livelihoods and national security.
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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
In this movie, in a desperate attempt to save her dying father, she agrees to marry the son of a woman believed to be living overseas. But when the reality of her decision sets in, she longs to escape.
Kenyan authorities arrested a senior policeman on Friday in connection with the death of a blogger in police custody last week, the police watchdog said, in a case that has sparked violent protests and shone a spotlight on police misconduct.
The police apologised after initially claiming Albert Ojwang died by suicide in a cell in Nairobi’s Central Police Station on Sunday, two days after his arrest. An independent autopsy pointed to assault as a more likely cause of death.
The policeman in charge of Central Police Station was arrested on Friday, along with a closed-circuit television (CCTV) technician called to dismantle the CCTV at the station, said Samati Kemboi, commissioner of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the police watchdog.
The CCTV system at the station had been interfered with, and records “changed and formatted” in the early hours of Sunday, according to a report by IPOA, which is conducting an investigation.
The 31-year-old’s case has drawn close scrutiny of the country’s security services, which have been accused of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances for many years, a source of mounting outrage for many Kenyans.
Hundreds of protesters angered by his death demonstrated in Nairobi on Thursday. Vehicles were set ablaze, and police fired tear gas to disperse crowds, who called for the country’s Deputy Police Chief Eliud Lagat to resign.
On June 4, Lagat filed an official complaint that an X account reportedly associated with Ojwang had published “continuous false and malicious publications” about him, the IPOA report said.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Waste management firm Zoomlion Ghana Limited has stated that, contrary to what some media sources have claimed, the government did not cancel or terminate its contract with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), which naturally ended in September 2024.
In a statement released in response to a letter from the Office of the President dated June 11, 2025, Zoomlion stated that the Street Sweeping Program contract had ended after being extended by six months past its initial expiration date of March 2024.
“The contract has therefore reached its natural conclusion and expired. Contrary to claims in some media reports, this expiration does not constitute a termination or cancellation of the agreement by the government, and that is not what the Office of the President stated.”
Following a petition by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, the Presidency announced in a letter that the contract would not be renewed and that competitive tendering will be used to award future sanitation contracts.
The letter also detailed efforts to enhance working conditions for sanitation personnel and audit all post-expiration payments to Zoomlion.
Zoomlion applauded the government’s efforts to improve procurement and accountability.
“Zoomlion Ghana Limited fully supports and welcomes this approach,” the company stated.
According to the statement, the company is ready to compete on future contracts under the new method, and the YEA contract that expired was itself competitively procured in 2019.
“We are well prepared and eager to actively participate in any forthcoming competitive procurement processes.”
The company stated that it supports the Presidency’s decision to audit any payments made after the contract’s expiration in terms of accountability.
“As a responsible corporate entity, transparency, integrity, and delivering value for money are core to our operations,” Zoomlion is quoted by citinewsroom.com to have said.
The impact of extreme heat on women isn’t merely about discomfort – it is physiological, economic, and deeply personal.
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By Afia Agyapomaa Ofosu
Scorching sun, no shade, and temperatures soaring to 32C – the relentless heat takes its toll on Auntie Fausty, a hardworking woman in her mid-50s, who ekes out a living selling bags in Accra, Ghana’s capital city, at the brimming Makola Market. As she sits in a worn plastic chair, her eyes scan the crowded market, searching for customers.
But the heat is suffocating, draining the life from her very pores. Auntie Fausty wipes the sweat from her brow with a tattered rug, her face a map of deep lines and creases. And yet, despite the oppressive heat, she remains steadfast, her beautifully arranged bags a testament to her unyielding spirit.
“After the harmattan season in January, the heat becomes intense, lasting till the rains arrive in May or June,” she shares, her voice laced with resilience and resolve. She describes her typical day: “I face harsh conditions from morning till 3 pm, sweating profusely and drinking plenty of water to cope, all while worrying about making ends meet.”
54-year-old Auntie Fausty. Photo: Ernest Ankomah.
Women Bear the Heat
Just a short walk away at Tema Station market, Ama Serwaa meticulously arranges her collection of local spices beneath the fragile sanctuary of a faded umbrella. Like Auntie Fausty, she battles not only the economic pressures of urban survival but also the physical assault of rising temperatures.
“The afternoon sun feels like punishment,” Ama confides, her voice dropping to a whisper as though the heat might overhear and grow stronger. “The headaches come like clockwork – throbbing, blinding pain that only painkillers can touch. Sometimes, all I can do is close my eyes and rest, even as customers walk by.”
As both women speak, others move through the market carrying heavy loads balanced precariously on their heads. The scene presents a stark visual metaphor – Ghana’s women literally bearing the weight of economic necessity while simultaneously enduring the crushing burden of climate change’s thermal consequences.
Their reality stands in sharp contrast to those who spend days in air-conditioned offices. For these market women, there is no escape button, no thermostat to adjust when the heat becomes unbearable. Their workplace is exposed to the elements, their bodies the frontline in a climate battle they never asked to fight.
The Female Body Under Fire
The impact of extreme heat on women isn’t merely about discomfort – it is physiological, economic, and deeply personal. According to Kathy Baughman McLeod, Chief Executive Officer of Climate Resilience for All, biology itself places women at greater risk.
“Ecologically, women’s bodies respond differently to heat stress,” McLeod explained. “It’s not just perception – their cardiovascular systems, skin structure, and hormonal fluctuations create unique vulnerabilities that science is only beginning to properly document.”
The consequences extend far beyond temporary discomfort. McLeod’s voice grew solemn as she shared observations from partner communities in South Asia: “We’ve documented daily skin rashes, chronic dizziness, debilitating headaches – and most devastating of all, miscarriages directly attributable to extreme heat exposure. Last May alone, six women from our community partners died from heat-related causes while working outdoors.”
Caryn Agyeman Prempeh, Health Director at La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly, added medical context to these lived experiences. “Heat stress triggers cortisol release in women’s bodies, creating hormonal imbalances that manifest as visible skin conditions like acne and eczema, but also as invisible threats to reproductive health.”
“When a woman experiences prolonged heat exposure day after day, her entire endocrine system can be affected. The body perpetually believes it’s under attack.”
Women walk along a street market in Accra, Ghana. Photo: Ernest Ankomah.
Fertility Amidst Flames
The consequences of heat on fertility are particularly devastating for women, as rising temperatures disrupt the intricate physiological processes that regulate reproduction.
Research reveals that rising temperatures interfere with the hypothalamus – the brain’s regulator of reproductive function. In heat stress on reproductive function and fertility in mammals, studies show that under heat stress, the hypothalamus falters, disrupting the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This results in erratic hormonal signals throughout the body. Luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, both crucial for egg maturation, fail to function properly, leaving ovarian follicles stranded and unable to develop. The system that should enable life is left out of sync, and ovulation is brought to a halt.
For pregnant women, the dangers are even more dire. Elevated body temperatures do not just affect the mother – they place the unborn child in jeopardy. Heat stress transforms the womb, once a sanctuary, into a hostile environment. Miscarriages, stillbirths, and severe birth defects are far more likely when heat overwhelms the body’s natural processes. The future, once filled with the potential of new life, is suddenly erased, as heat robs it before it even has a chance to form.
In Zimbabwe’s Kusile rural district, where climate change and inadequate healthcare intersect, pregnant women face an existential threat. This nightmare is a devastating reality for far too many. Meck Sibanda, Executive Director of the Christian Youth Volunteers Association Trust, bears witness to this crisis: “Rural women embark on perilous journeys to access basic healthcare, including maternity care. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a matter of life and death.”
Men are not exempt from the impact of heat, though their struggle is less visible. Heat was found to affect men’s testes, the organs responsible for sperm production. Excessive heat can impair the function of the cells within the testes, leading to reduced sperm production and compromised sperm quality. Sperm counts may drop, and DNA integrity can be affected. However, these changes are often reversible once temperatures return to normal.
Both men and women face the wrath of heat, but women bear the heaviest burden. The damage to female fertility can be irreversible, robbing them of the chance to conceive. While male fertility may recover, women’s reproductive systems are often left permanently altered. In the fight against a warming world, heat is not just a physical stress – it is a thief of life, stealing futures and leaving bodies in its wake.
More on the topic: South Sudanese Women Disproportionally Affected By Climate Change-Fueled Heat: Study
Northern Heat, Northern Pain
Travel northward to Bolgatanga in Ghana’s Upper East Region, and the temperature climbs even higher. Here, where the mercury regularly touches 40C, another deadly consequence of extreme heat emerges from the parched landscape.
Cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) cases surge during peak heat periods, turning temperature into a matter of life and death. The northern regions have recorded thousands of cases over recent years, with fatality rates that send shudders through local health systems.
Here too, women bear additional burdens. As primary caregivers, they typically carry on with their domestic responsibilities even when sick. They walk farther for increasingly scarce water. They maintain households while their own health deteriorates under the double assault of heat and duty.
“We are the nurses when clinics are too far away,” said Adisa Adams, a mother of three from a village outside Bolgatanga. “We are the ones who must remain strong when others fall ill. But who cares for us when the heat makes us weak?”
Science Behind the Sweat
Ghana’s rising temperatures are no accident or natural fluctuation. A 2014 paper documented how greenhouse gas emissions from fuel consumption, deforestation, and agricultural practices have accelerated since 1990, pushing Ghana toward a climate tipping point despite its relatively small global emissions footprint.
By 2020, all of Ghana’s ecological zones had surpassed 2C warming – a threshold once considered a distant concern. Projections for 2050 and 2080 suggest continued temperature increases that threaten to remake the country’s environmental and social landscape.
The consequences ripple through every sector. Agriculture yields decline as crops wither under intensifying heat. Hydropower generation falters as rainfall patterns shift. Public health crises multiply with increased incidence of malaria and cholera. And at every point of impact, women – especially those with limited economic resources – absorb the harshest effects. A study published in April delivered even more sobering news: heatwaves across Ghana are becoming more frequent, longer in duration, and more intense in their peak temperatures. The northern regions, particularly the Sudan Savannah zone, experience the most severe conditions, yet they receive the least attention in climate adaptation planning.
Ghana’s temperature has already passed the 2C warming mark, and is forecast to increase further in the decades to come. Photo: Afia Agyapomaa Ofosu, AWiM.
The Gendered Cost of Climate
Extreme heat does not affect all Ghanaians equally. Women – especially those who work outdoors, care for families, or live in poverty – are disproportionately exposed and less protected. Their labor is invisible, their suffering normalized.
“We must view heat stress as a gendered health crisis,” said Prempeh. “The public sees women in markets but rarely thinks about what that exposure does to their organs, their fertility, or their future.”
Beyond markets, women working as farmers, cleaners, food vendors, and teachers are increasingly reporting chronic fatigue, heatstroke, and productivity loss. Yet policies remain gender-neutral – blind to the fact that equal isn’t always equitable.
Despite these challenges, women across Ghana demonstrate remarkable adaptability. The World Health Organization recommends simple preventive measures: staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat hours, wearing appropriate clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible.
Pushing For Change in a Burning Landscape
Christopher Gordon, former director of the Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies at the University of Ghana, identified the vicious cycle trapping Ghana in escalating heat.
“We’re cutting down forests while cocoa yields decline,” he said. “Farmers, desperate for income, sell land to illegal gold miners. The result? More deforestation, polluted water bodies, and temperatures that climb even higher.”
His analysis revealed the interconnectedness of environmental degradation and climate consequences. Deforestation reduces natural cooling, accelerates soil erosion, and diminishes water retention – all factors that intensify heat impacts, particularly in rural communities where women are central to agricultural production.
For the first time, Ghana has appointed a dedicated Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability – Baba Issifu Seidu. This institutional recognition of climate challenges offers new hope for policy interventions that might specifically address heat’s gendered impacts. Minister Seidu’s engagement with University of Ghana academics signals a promising shift toward evidence-based climate policy. For this approach to succeed, it must recognize and address the specific vulnerabilities of women while amplifying their essential role in climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Cooling Communities Through Collaboration
Innovation emerges from necessity. Across Ghana, women are not merely victims of climate change but pioneers of climate solutions.
The national tree-planting initiative represents one scalable approach to heat mitigation. Millions of trees planted annually provide essential shade, cool surrounding air through evapotranspiration, and help reduce urban heat island effects that make cities particularly dangerous during extreme heat events.
More targeted interventions also show particular promise. The Heat Adaptation Benefits for Vulnerable Groups in Africa (HABVIA) project has implemented a roof-painting initiative in communities including Ga-Mashie in Accra and Nkwantakese in Kumasi. The program applies specialized reflective paint to approximately 30 homes in each location, significantly reducing interior temperatures.
“Before the white roof, my children couldn’t sleep at night because of the heat,” explained Maamle Sackey, a participant in Ga-Mashie. “Now our home stays cooler, and we rest better. My headaches have lessened too.”
Doreen Larkailey Lartey, a researcher with the University of Ghana Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies, believes in women’s capacity to cool their environments through small-scale interventions.
“Urban women have extraordinary power to transform microclimates,” Lartey said. “Home gardens, reduced energy consumption, and water conservation—these seemingly small actions multiply when communities embrace them collectively.”
Her vision is both practical and inspirational: thousands of small gardens transforming Ghana’s urban heat profile while improving food security and enhancing biodiversity. “Women already hold ecological knowledge,” she insisted. “They simply need resources and recognition to deploy it effectively.”
As rising temperatures scorch the West African nation of Ghana, the heat is on to act. Women, often the most vulnerable to the climate crisis, bear the brunt of droughts, floods, and storms. To shield them and future generations from the worst impacts of climate change, Ghana must adopt policies that prioritize their needs and perspectives. Integrating climate change mitigation, public health protection, and social equity will forge a resilient, equitable, and thriving future. The time for collective action is now – Ghana’s women, and its very future, depend on it.
Featured image: Ernest Ankomah.
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About the author:
Afia Agyapomaa Ofosu is a science journalist specializing in the gendered impacts of climate change across West Africa. This report was supported by the African Women in Media (AWiM) with support from the Fojo Media Institute.
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In this Nigerian family movie, Fred continues to neglect his responsibilities as a husband and father. His indifferent attitude toward finding work and providing for his family is placing them at serious risk. The question remains: will he ever step up and take accountability?
Mali’s government will establish a state-controlled gold refinery with Russia’s Yadran to boost bullion revenue as West African nations aim for greater resource returns amid rising commodity prices, the country’s finance minister said.
The new company, SOROMA-SA, will be 62% owned by the Malian state, with the remainder held by Yadran, Economy and Finance Minister Alousseni Sanou said.
The refinery, set to be built on a five-hectare site near Bamako’s airport, will process 200 metric tons annually, almost quadruple Mali’s current output of approximately 50 tons, Sanou said.
Mali’s National Transition Council approved the shareholding on Thursday, Sanou said, adding the company would assist miners to comply with the revised code.
Mali, Africa’s second-largest gold producer, has adopted a revised mining code boosting state stakes in mining firms, raising gold royalties, and requiring domestic gold processing, following similar policies in Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea that rattled western investors as they pivot to Russia and China.
Mali’s two gold refineries lack certifications, such as by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), forcing miners to process gold abroad, according to the Mines Ministry. A senior Mines Ministry official, who requested anonymity, said Yadran would help secure certification, a key obstacle that has prevented the country’s existing refineries from accessing global markets.
Mali’s military leader Assimi Goita will commission the refinery’s construction later in June, according to mines ministry spokesperson.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Ghanaian media executive and culture curator, Ruddy Kwakye, has said in a recent interview on Joy FM that a lot of Ghanaian events don’t make gains because they give out too many free tickets.
Ruddy told Kwame Dadzie on Showbiz A-Z that a number of Ghanaian event organisers usually give out the tickets for free so they could fill the venues.
“You charge a 100, 000 cedis to do a show in Ghana but the reality is you can’t sell a 100,000 dollars of tickets. Half of your December shows by your favourite artistes were all free.
They just gave tickets to people to fill it up. It’s an ego trip. Because there is a system; you market in a certain way you would get your money back but there is no short cut around it, thinking we sold the tickets, therefore [we should make profit],” he said.
He made this statement while discussing why a lot of event organisers usually complain they made losses from their events after announcing they sold out their venues.
For playwright Latif Abubakar, making profit from events goes beyond just ticket sales. He said on the show that there are other avenues of raising funds to complement ticket sales.
“I always say tickets are insignificant to the cost of a production. Because the amount of money we charge when it comes to ticketing is very small. You can’t depend tickets to produce your events.
There are other elements of raising funds for production. We talk about sponsorships, partners, investors, and then you create other portfolios,” he said.
Latif noted that he creates a portfolio of exhibition where companies exhibit their wares and pay him.
For most event organisers taxes taken by the Ghana Revenue Authority put a lot of pressure on their enterprises.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Prince and Princess of Wales have shared new photos of Prince William with their three children to mark Father’s Day.
One is a portrait shot showing the prince standing with his arms around Prince George, 11, and Princess Charlotte, 10, while seven-year-old Prince Louis stands in front of him – the other is a landscape image in black and white showing the four lying on the grass laughing in an embrace.
The two photos, shared on the couple’s official social media account, are accompanied with the caption “Happy Father’s Day, Papa (before and after!) We love you! G, C & L” along with a heart emoji.
It comes as the family attended Trooping the Colour on Saturday, celebrating the King’s official birthday.
A family photo from Saturday’s event was shared on the same Instagram account featuring Prince William dressed in uniform, Catherine and Charlotte in blue dresses, with George and Louis in suits with red ties.
The Father’s Day photos shared on Sunday were taken in Norfolk by Josh Shinner, who has taken pictures of Prince William and Catherine’s family before, including their Christmas card for 2023.
Last year’s Father’s Day photo was taken by Catherine.
It featured the prince standing with his three children, their arms around each other, looking out to sea.
The King and Queen have also wished a Happy Father’s Day “to all Dads everywhere” posting photos of them with their own fathers.
A black and white image posted on their official Instagram account shows the late Prince Philip holding a swing, playing with a young Charles and Princess Anne.
A second photo has also been shared of Camilla with her late father, Major Bruce Shand, arm-in-arm on the day of her wedding to Charles in 2005.
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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
I Love You With What I Have And Will Become In Life-Toyin Abraham Shares Photos Of Her Husband
News Hub Creator48min
Using her own Instagram account, the famous and gifted Nigerian actress and film producer Toyin Abraham has gushed over her spouse. To her, her spouse was like a little deity.
Among Hollywood’s most accomplished actors and producers, Toyin Abraham stands head and shoulders above the crowd. Her most notable accomplishment is the significant role she played in Yoruba films.
Countless moving and uplifting films have been directed by Toyin Abraham. Thanks to her remarkable performance, Toyin—who is popularly known as Sabi Aunty—has garnered a lot of admirers both at home and abroad.
Toyin Abraham wrote an open and honest declaration of her feelings for her husband in the piece. She told him that no matter what happens in her life, she loves him with all her heart.
The actress shared stunning images to commemorate the special times they spend together.
Her hubby appeared so tender, youthful, and loving in the pictures she shared.
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Popular Ghanaian blogger Esther Xorlali Kugbey, founder of the award-winning blog xorlali.com, has received two nominations at this year’s Volta Media Excellence Awards (VMEAs) 2025.
The young digital entrepreneur was nominated in the categories of Blogger of the Year (WS5) and Blog of the Year (WS3), recognizing her outstanding work in the media and tourism space in Ghana.
Esther, known for her storytelling skills and informative content, runs one of Ghana’s top lifestyle and travel blogs, xorlali.com. Her blog covers trending topics in news, entertainment, travel and tourism, celebrity biographies, and lifestyle.
A voice for tourism and culture in Ghana
Apart from her blogging career, Esther Xorlali Kugbey works as a tour operation officer with Exotic Adventures Ltd, a leading domestic tourism company in Ghana. Through her blog and social media platforms, she promotes cultural heritage sites, local attractions, and travel experiences across the country.
Her nomination comes as no surprise to many of her followers, who describe her as passionate, consistent, and hardworking.
“I’m humbled by the recognition,” she said in a post. “This means a lot not just to me, but to everyone who believes in the power of storytelling and promoting Ghana through blogging.”
How to vote for Esther Xorlali Kugbey
Fans and supporters can vote for Esther by sending the voting codes to the official VMEAs number:
Voting is currently open, and all are encouraged to support by voting and sharing.
About the Volta Media Excellence Awards
Organized by Edy’s Promotion, the Volta Media Excellence Awards aims to recognize and celebrate individuals and media houses contributing to the growth of the media industry in the Volta Region and beyond.
This year’s event has seen increased participation and excitement, with nominees from various sectors including radio, TV, blogging, photography, and more.
Connect with Esther
To learn more about her work, visit www.xorlali.com or follow her on all major social media platforms.
According to the report by TV3 GH today June 15, 2025, Ghanaians have recently expressed their concerns over the political future of Haruna Iddrisu, Ghana’s Education Minister, warning him that his current approach could hinder his chances of becoming the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer in the 2028 elections.
