When Mikel Arteta spots an opportunity to get in the good books of a talented young player, he will seldom let it pass by. Even during the contract signing ceremony of Arsenal’s newest signing, Cristhian Mosquera, the Gunners boss produced a comical moment which could also help him secure a promising prospect.

Mosquera was unveiled by his new club on Thursday, with Arsenal completing a £13million deal to sign the 21-year-old defender from Valencia. It was an emotional affair when the Spanish youth international turned up with his family to sign a five-year contract, flanked by Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta.

While Mosquera’s father was overcome with emotion, his younger brother, who himself is a capable footballer, was watching on calmly from behind the table on which Arsenal’s new boy put pen to paper.

Arteta then interrupted a chat between Mosquera and Berta to pay a compliment to the defender’s fresh-faced sibling, as he grabbed the pen and said: “Let’s take [a picture] of your brother so you can see him in the photo! For the future, he is very good!”

Whether the youngster goes on to follow in the footsteps of his older brother remains to be seen. For now, Arteta has more pressing matters to attend to, such as phasing Mosquera into a brand new group of players.

The centre-back may have a tough time earning first-team minutes ahead of the established partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes. But he says that getting better will be his main motivation during the bedding-in process.

“Coming here is a chance to keep learning and improving,” Mosquera told the Arsenal website. “I’ll be working with great players and a top-class coaching staff, so that will help me develop personally. I’m a player with a lot of energy. I’m young, so I still have plenty to give. I’m fully motivated and excited. Above all, I want to improve, which will create competition within the squad. I’m really happy.”

Arteta, whose players are in the midst of a pre-season tour in Asia, wants to integrate his new signings as soon as possible.

“With Noni [Madueke] it wasn’t possible because he needed some time [after the Club World Cup] and he’s going to take a short vacation. But the others, if we can do it immediately, I think it’s better, so they can start to join the team, get to know each other and get the ideas that we want to put in the mix.”

Champion TV will debut Ghana’s first dedicated children’s morning program, “Mmofra Morning Show,” in August 2025, airing Saturdays at 9:45 AM.

The English-language production aims to blend global news, education, and entertainment for young African audiences through interactive segments.

Creator Emmanuel Oteng Agbley, an ICT tutor at Prempeh College, emphasized the show’s mission: “It’s time for Ghana and African youth to have a platform for national and international discussions that nurture talents decently.”

The program will feature innovative segments including Mmofra Newspaper Review, World News, and Fastest Guru Challenge. According to Champion TV, the initiative will provide aspiring young journalists with practical broadcasting experience. Executive Producer Aprella Bridges, a U.S.-based nurse, noted the show’s role in positive child development: “We’re equipping children to learn and grow while connecting Ghana globally through youth programming.”

Champion TV CEO Dr. Kwaku Frimpong positioned the show as transformative for African media: “This emphasizes education and creativity to shape Ghana’s next generation.” The launch aligns with the station’s commitment to innovative content amid Ghana’s current political landscape under President Mahama’s administration.

Another man has been shot dead in broad daylight at Sabon Zongo in Kumasi’s Asawase constituency, marking the second fatal shooting in the area within a week by unknown motorbike-riding assailants.

The unknown assailants, said to be on a motorbike, shot the man yet to be identified, when he was about to enter his vehicle on the spot near the OTEC FM radio station, in Sabon Zongo.

This is the second shooting incident in less than a week in the Asawase area by unknown assailants carrying AK 47 assault rifles on motorbikes.

The first fatal shooting incident, which occurred at Asawase F-Line, near the Community Centre on July 22, 2025, claimed the life of Abdul-Malik Azenba, the Kusasi chief of the Ashanti region.

The assailants, who were on a motorbike, killed the chief in his house using an AK 47 assault rifle.

The police are yet to arrest any suspects. The Friday incident had created fear and panic among residents in Kumasi, especially those in the Asawase and its environs.

There is a heavy police deployment in the area as they begin a manhunt for the perpetrators of these crimes in the area. Empty shells retrieved by the police from the crime scene suggest the use of AK 47 assault rifle by the attackers.

As at the time of filing this report, the police were yet to identify the victim and convey the body to the morgue.

Source: GNA

Featured

GNA

Jul – 26 – 2025 , 08:16

1 minute read

Ten Chinese nationals arrested for allegedly conspiring to smuggle gold out of Ghana have been granted bail by an Accra Circuit Court.

Each of the accused—Wu Cheng Tei, Tang Da Tien, Wang Chun Ling, Wei Dong, Li Fu Shou, Wei Sheng Xin, He Shi Long, Li Ren Neng, Fang Zhun Sheng and Zheng Xi Chuang—was admitted to bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 with three sureties.

Presiding Judge Mr. Samuel Bright Acquah ordered that the sureties must include a civil servant earning no less than GH¢10,000 monthly, a Chinese national resident in Ghana for over five years, and a Ghanaian citizen.

The accused were further directed to deposit their travel documents at the court registry and ensure they are available at the country’s entry points to prevent possible flight risk.

They are also required to report to the National Intelligence Bureau twice a week.

The ten were arrested on July 1, 2025, at Asankragua in the Western Region and are facing charges including unlawful trading in gold, hoarding, tax evasion, money laundering, and illegal possession of firearms.

According to prosecution, the complainants are members of the National Security Gold Board Task Force.

Intelligence gathered on June 30, 2025, indicated that the accused had flouted Ghana Gold Board directives and were actively engaged in hoarding, trading, and smuggling of gold.

The Task Force moved to Asankragua and arrested the accused, while others fled the scene.

Searches at their residences uncovered 1,286kg of gold bars, nuggets and dust, alongside ledgers detailing gold transactions and receipts.

Additional items retrieved included mercury, twelve pump action guns, 36 BB cartridges, two gold scales, and two safes containing casino cash chips.

During interrogation, the accused admitted involvement in gold sales and casino operations but failed to disclose their registered business names and vault locations.

The prosecution said investigations had confirmed their engagement in gold trade and smuggling without registration under Ghana’s tax laws.

Authorities are currently probing further to determine the scale of financial concealment stemming from the alleged offences.

Source: GNA

Popular Ghanaian broadcaster and host of GTV’s Breakfast Show, Kafui Dey

Popular Ghanaian broadcaster and host of GTV’s Breakfast Show, Kafui Dey, has officially announced his departure from the morning program after four impactful years on air.

In a heartfelt statement shared on July 24, 2025, the media personality reflected on his journey, which began on August 2, 2021.

He described the experience as “incredible,” expressing gratitude to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), the Director-General, his co-presenters, producers, directors, crew, social media team, and every guest who contributed to the success of the show.

“After 4 incredible years, IT IS TIME,” Kafui wrote. “Today, I step away from #GTVBreakfast.”

He also extended a warm message to his audience, thanking them for riding with him through the highs and lows. “To all who supported me—thank you. For the highs, the lows, and the memories, I’m truly thankful. If I ever offended anyone, please forgive me,” he added.

Though he is stepping away from the show, Kafui Dey emphasized that this is not the end.

“This isn’t goodbye. Just the end of a chapter. I believe our paths will cross again—and when they do, we will create even more beautiful memories.”

Black Queens forward, Alice Kusi

Black Queens forward Alice Kusi says she is relieved Ghana did not leave the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations empty-handed after helping her side secure a third-place finish with a 4-3 penalty shootout win over South Africa.

It was Ghana’s first WAFCON medal since 2016 and marked a significant achievement for Kim Lars Bjorkegren’s team, who recovered from a goal down to force penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

“I’m happy we didn’t go home empty-handed. We couldn’t reach the final but we’re going home with something,” said Kusi, who was named Player of the Match. “I’m really excited to be woman of the match.”

Ghana came close to scoring early, with Doris Boaduwaa and Kusi narrowly missing opportunities to break the deadlock. Grace Asantewaa also tested South African goalkeeper Andile Dlamini with a powerful effort.

However, Banyana Banyana took the lead late in the first half after a mistake by goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan allowed Nonhlanhla Mthandi to score.

The Black Queens responded with intensity in the second half and were rewarded in the 68th minute when Kusi finished off a Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah cross to level the score.

Despite several late chances, the game went to penalties, where Ghana held their nerve to secure bronze after two South African misses.

Minister-Designate for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, has expressed confidence that he will not be sidelined in his role as Deputy Minister under Sam George.

Speaking before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, July 25, the Sissala West MP  stressed that their working relationship is rooted in mutual respect and long-standing collaboration.

“I knew my minister [Sam George] before coming to this House [Parliament] in 2021. He and I have worked closely; he knows me, we know ourselves, and he knows my capabilities. I can tell you that this appointment is a prophecy come true.

He said, “I’m not surprised that I’m deputising Sam George. We will work together, and we trust ourselves. Mr. President consulted him and he accepted to work with me. because he knows what I can do to support him to succeed. So, there will be no cause for alarm.”

A/R: REGSEC bans motorbikes after 7pm over rising tensions

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Ghana on Friday signed a €87.7 million debt relief agreement with France under the Official Creditor Committee (OCC) arrangement, making it the first bilateral creditor to do so after two years of negotiations.

Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Finance Minister, signed for Ghana, while Mr. William Ross, Co-Chair, OCC, signed for the Creditor (France), in an agreement which provides a 100 per cent debt service, a reduction on the interest and an extension on maturity on the country’s debt.

Dr. Forson expressed the country’s appreciation to France, the Paris Club, and the Official Creditors Committee, as well as legal and financial advisors, for the collaborative work, which had culminated in the signing of the first bilateral agreement.

“It is often said that it is only in difficult times that you see your true friends, and we can say without mincing words that the French Republic came through for Ghana and Ghana is extremely grateful,” Dr. Ato Forson said.

He noted the improvements in the Ghanaian economy, indicating the government’s resolve to sustain the progress made while drawing investments into key priority areas – healthcare, education, agriculture and infrastructure.

“Today is a milestone – in the sense that it has taken us some years to get here, but it’s the most significant one that will pave the way for others to this side,” he said, noting the country’s turbulent times and the current promising point for more investment.

“Inflation that was once at 54.1 per cent has now come down to 13.7 per cent. We are seeing growth bound to about a five-year high. We are seeing particularly reserves, the external position improving to about four months of import cover, and the primary surplus is at 1.1 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” the Minister recounted.

“We are determined to hold the line and sustain the progress we have made year to date, and we believe that in the coming days, Ghana will be able to see investment after the stability,” Dr. Ato Forson said, pledging the government’s commitment to a deepened mutually beneficial cooperation with France.

Thomas Nyarko Ampem, Deputy Finance Minister, stated that the agreement with France and the once ahead would provide clarity and certainty on the country’s debt sustainability, “telling a good story that Ghana is on track.”

Describing Ghana’s debt composition and treatment as complex, Mr. Ross said the professional and efficient engagement with multiple stakeholders built trust among the official bilateral and international creditors, leading to France signing the agreement.

“We have decided to reduce by 100 per cent as debt service, reduce interest and increase the maturity to give you space for investment, to also negotiate with other creditors and create a real partnership for other stakeholders to contribute to.

“If you look at what we have done for Ghana, it is shorter than what we did for Zambia, but we have continued to improve in the case of Ethiopia… you have been very impressive because you have many people and institutions to engage with,” Mr Ross said.

The French Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Jules Armand Aniambossou, described the moment as emotional, reflecting on the long, difficult journey the two countries embarked on before reaching an agreement.

“When I came to this country more than two years ago, the country was facing some difficulties. But when your friend is your family is facing difficulties, you have to show that you will not just say, I am sorry, but to take some key actions.

“That is why the French government at the very high level, decided to do. Because we are here today due to the political volunteers from both sides. France decided not to let down Ghana because of our historical relationship and the key role Ghana is playing in our region [Africa],” he stated.

This development forms part of a broader debt restructuring effort under the ongoing implementation of Ghana’s three-year US$3 billion loan-supported programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with US$2.3bn disbursements so far.

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.

Afenyo-Markin, Zanetor and Prof Ayensu-Danquah

The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has apologised to the Deputy Minister-designate of Health, Prof Grace Ayensu-Danquah, over controversial remarks he made questioning her ministerial appointment.

The apology, delivered during Prof Ayensu-Danquah’s vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, July 25, 2025, came after backlash over comments made by the Effutu MP earlier this month.

Afenyo-Markin had questioned why the ruling NDC government nominated her as Deputy Health Minister ahead of more senior female party members.

Faced with widespread criticism, Afenyo-Markin apologised to Prof Ayensu-Danquah during her vetting, expressing regret over his choice of words.

He said, “No, I had crossed the red line. I say to you, I’m sorry, is that fair?…

“I needed to clarify the point. We are on national TV, and I want to be sensitive to your feelings because I am a husband and a father, and I wouldn’t want anybody to do that to my wife or my sister.

“So, once you feel that way and you have expressed it or somebody has expressed it on your behalf, it’s my duty to react to it as a Christian who wants to perfect my Christian life. So, I’m sorry once again,” he said.

Prof Ayensu-Danqua accepted the apology, stating, “That is fair, and I’m very appreciative that you have taken this opportunity to apologise. And I hope that moving forward, we will have a better relationship. And I’m very grateful and humbled. Thank you.”

During a heated debate in Parliament on July 14, 2025, Afenyo-Markin openly scolded the Essikadu-Ketan MP, insisting she was out of order for attempting to raise a point while he was speaking.

The visibly agitated Minority Leader said, “My colleague, your name is not even on the list yet. We have only heard rumours that you will be facing the Appointments Committee, and this is what you choose to be doing?

“You came to meet Dr Zanetor here, and for some strange reason, it appears your name is being considered when even party stalwarts like Helen Ntoso are still waiting. And yet you want to be raising points of order while your leader is speaking?”

The comments, perceived as dismissive and discriminatory, sparked outrage among MPs and on social media, with critics accusing Afenyo-Markin of undermining women in Parliament.

Prof Ayensu-Danquah, visibly displeased, raised her concerns to the Speaker, “Mr Speaker, there are only 14% of women in this House, and some of these statements are very discouraging.

“I was simply standing up, waiting to catch your eye, when I was attacked for no reason.

“Speaker, it makes it very difficult for women to speak when we face veiled threats and passive-aggressive behaviour. I respectfully request that part of the statement be expunged from the records because I was offended by it, having done nothing to deserve such treatment.”

She further stressed the need for Parliament to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for female MPs.

AM/SEA

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey

Ghana Premier League side Heart of Lions are making a bold move in the transfer market, as they push to sign Ghana U-20 winger Bless Ege, GHANASoccernet.com can confirm.

The exciting young forward, who featured prominently for Ghana at the ongoing 2025 WAFU B U-20 Cup of Nations, is now being monitored closely by the Kpando-based club.

Sources say Heart of Lions have initiated contact with the player’s camp and are preparing a proposal to secure his signature before the new season begins. Although no official bid has been made yet, the club is reportedly eager to bring in youthful talent to strengthen their squad.

Ege has attracted attention for his explosive pace, creativity down the flanks, and work rate during national assignments. His future remains open, as he recently told GHANASoccernet.com that he will “consider any offer” after the U-20 tournament.

Should a deal materialize, it would mark a significant coup for Heart of Lions as they aim to build a competitive squad for their top-flight return.

Stay tuned to GHANASoccernet.com for all the latest on this developing story.

By Jibril Abdul Mumuni

Accra, July 25, GNA- A total of 108 Ghanaian students are set to participate in the 2025 Europe Summer Camp and Educational Tour.

This figure was disclosed by Mr. Edward Obiri Ampong, Managing Director of Edibeck Consult, the organisers of the exchange programme, following a pre-departure briefing HELD in Accra.

The briefing, on the theme, “Bridging Cultures, Building Futures,” marked the final preparations for the Ghana-Netherlands Exchange for Global Youth programme.

It provided participants and their families with essential travel guidelines, cultural orientation, and programme expectations.

Organised by Edibeck Consult, the initiative aims to enhance cross-cultural understanding and equip young Ghanaians with global competencies through immersive educational experiences in the Netherlands and other European countries.

Participants are expected to spend one week at the camp, where three distinct activities are arranged, encompassing both educational and adventure elements.

The second part of the programme involves an educational tour within the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and France.

Mr. Obiri Ampong, in his address, stated that his organisation plans to foster institutional collaboration between universities in Ghana and the Netherlands to promote joint programmes, research, and exchanges.

He noted that since many of the participants were high school students, their next level of education would be at a tertiary level.

To this end, Edibeck Consult has signed an agreement with the Ghana Communication Technology University to kick-start the Netherlands exchange programme in 2026.

This, he explained, would also open up educational opportunities in the Netherlands for Ghanaian students.

“ For this reason, as part of the exchange programme, participants will visit some selected Dutch universities, starting next year as prospective international students for those institutions.”

“Since it is a global world and education is becoming competitive and also expensive to handle, starting next year we will also explore academic opportunities, scholarships, and innovation hubs in the Netherlands for our enrolled campus and Ghanaian students who will be travelling with us,” he said.

Mr. Simon Madjie, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, emphasised that governments did not possess all the resources to travel around the world to promote and “sell” Ghana.

He urged the participants to leverage the exchange programme to create networks and friends with nationals of other countries.

He added, “The fourth point is the power of friendship. Don’t limit yourself to people that are not from Ghana. Take their contacts, their phone numbers, their email addresses. Stay in touch with them. The biggest guarantee you can have is the friends and the relationships that you form. Luckily, we are very fortunate.”

GNA

Edited by Samuel Osei-Frempong