Nigerian producer and music executive Don Jazzy has cleared the air on a police case he faced in the United Kingdom (UK) during the early days of his career.
His former associate, Bankulli, had revealed at a recent event that Don Jazzy evaded the law in the UK after being involved in an accident that attracted police attention.
The family of the late Samuel Aboagye, the Deputy National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) Coordinator who died in the August 6, 2025, Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash, has dismissed media reports suggesting that a DNA test has been conducted to confirm the paternity of his child.
Following Aboagye’s death, widespread speculation emerged claiming his wife had refused to present their child for a DNA test, an assessment purportedly required to aid in identifying his remains.
The rumour further fuelled claims implying doubts about the child’s paternity. Subsequent media reports then suggested the test had been completed and that Aboagye’s wife had been “cleared.”
Speaking to Adom News, Nana Kwabena Gyamera Oyiakwan II, the Chief of Adansi Kwapia and elder brother of the late Samuel Aboagye, clarified that no such test has taken place.
He described the circulating reports as completely false and expressed the family’s shock at the misinformation.
“We have not conducted any DNA test. These stories in the media are untrue because, for now, we haven’t conducted any tests. If we conduct the DNA and the child is Samuel’s child, that will clear our doubt, so if it is done, we will update the public,” adomonline quoted him to have said in an interview with Adom News.
He explained that the issue is currently before the court, and a ruling expected on December 23, 2025, will determine the appropriate next steps.
“The DNA test will only be done after the court concludes its proceedings. Any information circulating now is pure speculation,” he stressed.
It may be recalled that the family took Abigail Aboagye to the Obuasi District Court.
The case revolves around Abagail Aboagye’s refusal to hand over their three-year-old child to the family for a DNA test.
Samuel Aboagye’s family has sued the US-based widow, accusing her of being unfair to them following her husband’s death.
The Obuasi District Court has adjourned the case to December 23, 2025 for further hearing.
AM
Ghana Armed Forces outlines new recruitment rules after El-Wak stampede
Parliament’s Defence Committee impressed with Accra military recruitment setup
Watch the promo to GhanaWeb’s latest documentary, which uncovers the evolution of ‘kayamata,’ an exploitative practice fueled by love charms and manipulation, titled, “The Dark Side of Kayamata,’ below:
Veteran Ghanaian actor William Addo, widely known by his stage name Akpatse, has reportedly passed away on November 22, 2025, following a prolonged illness. The news emerged through local media reports, though official confirmation from family members or theatre organizations remained pending at press time.
The actor, celebrated for his memorable performances on Ghana Television (GTV)’s Thursday Theatre and numerous other productions, became a household name through his unique comedic style. His stage name Akpatse, which translates to trickster in the Ga dialect, perfectly captured the humorous characters he often portrayed.
Addo earned his undergraduate degree in Drama and Theatre Studies from the University of Ghana before receiving a scholarship to pursue a master’s degree in Theatre Studies at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, where he specialized in Acting and Directing. His impressive career included directing over 85 plays and acting in more than 100 theatrical productions, along with numerous film, video and television projects.
The veteran performer built a distinguished career both on stage and screen. After completing his studies, he returned to Ghana and served as a lecturer at the Theatre Arts Department of the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana. He also worked at the National Theatre where he coordinated educational programs and served as Artistic Director for the Keysoap Concert Party Show.
Addo faced significant health challenges in recent years. In 2019, he revealed that multiple eye surgeries had failed to restore his vision, with doctors diagnosing an incurable combination of glaucoma and cataract that left him completely blind. The deterioration of his eyes began in early 2018, and despite undergoing tests and treatment at a hospital in Sogakope, medical professionals informed him his condition could not be cured.
Living in Tefle, a farming community in the Volta Region, the actor struggled with multiple health issues beyond his blindness, which rendered him largely immobile and dependent on others for daily activities. Despite his circumstances, he maintained hope that he would regain his sight, telling interviewers he believed recovering his vision would be among the last miracles performed on Earth.
The actor received support from several prominent Ghanaians during his health struggles. He acknowledged that media personalities including Kwame Sefa Kayi and Bola Ray helped fund his earlier surgeries. In recent years, he appealed for assistance to start a corn mill business, hoping to generate sustainable income for medical expenses and daily needs.
Throughout his career, Addo received recognition including the United States Information Service (USIS) International Visitor Programme award in 1992, which allowed him to tour major American theatres and study their management, training procedures and programming approaches. He held various positions including Research Assistant and Senior Research Assistant at the School of Performing Arts from 1980 to 1991, and served as Artistic Director for the Get Involved Theatre Group and General Secretary of the Ghana Centre International Institute.
His contributions to Ghanaian theatre and television entertainment spanned several decades, with Thursday Theatre remaining one of his most recognized platforms. The program became a cultural staple for many Ghanaian families, and Addo’s performances helped define an era of local television production.
At press time, no official statement had been released by family members, representatives from the University of Ghana School of Performing Arts, or the National Theatre regarding funeral arrangements or memorial services. The Ghanaian entertainment community has experienced several losses in recent years, with the passing of various veteran performers who helped build the foundation of the country’s film and theatre industry.
Investor shift continues as government records 6th week of T-Bills undersubscription
For the sixth consecutive week, the government has missed its Treasury auction target, with investor appetite continuing to decline, resulting in yet another undersubscription at the latest auction.
Auction results released by the Bank of Ghana showed that the government raised GH¢4.9 billion against a maturing target of GH¢6.42 billion.
Bids were submitted across all three tenors: the 91-day, 182-day, and 364-day bills.
The 91-day bill recorded GH¢3.93 billion in bids, of which GH¢3.82 billion was accepted.
T-Bills: Government misses auction target for the fifth week
The 182-day bill received GH¢749 million, with GH¢744 million accepted, while the 364-day bill saw GH¢266 million in tenders, with GH¢263 million accepted.
Conversely, the 91-day bill edged up by 11 basis points to 11.13 percent from 11.02 percent the previous week.
The 182-day bill rose by 2 basis points to 12.68 percent and the 364-day bill slipped by 2 basis points to 13.06 percent.
With this trend in the T-bills market, analysts point to strong demand for Bank of Ghana bills, particularly the 56-day bills, which are currently offering yields of around 21 percent.
SP/AE
All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:
File photo of a worried man
Dear GhanaWeb,
I invited a lady over for the first time last week but something happened after we had sex; I got scared and haven’t had the urge to call her again.
She came over for the first time, not to sleep over though. She told me she would return in the evening. I know how important a first impression is, so I decided to use ‘delay spray’ so I could last longer.
We had sex for over an hour. Then she suddenly grabbed my neck so tightly with both hands and froze. She actually froze, like she became very hard and was just shaking while suffocating me.
She became so strong that all my efforts to free myself were fruitless. I struggled to breathe and I kept trying to remove her hands from my neck but she held me so firmly. It felt like I’d been grabbed by a military man.
She couldn’t even see or hear me. I tried and the harder I tried, the weaker I became. I cried and actually regretted inviting a woman over before going blank. I thought I was actually going to die. I was regretting so many things but the woman in me was what I regretted more.
About an hour later, I woke up and saw her sitting next to me all dressed up. She smiled when I woke up and said, “You passed out while I was cumming, or were you cumming too? Was it because I choked you?”
So she actually strangled me so I passed out and called it, “choking”. I felt really bad. I prayed in my head and shed tears of regret before going off. It could have been my last moment on it.
When she left, I asked her what that was and she responded that, “that is how I am when I am cumming, you shouldn’t have let me hold your neck”.
So she blamed me for allowing her to hold my neck when I didn’t know anything like that was going to happen.
Whatever it was, I just thank God so much that I survived. I honestly don’t want to have anything to do with her again. I think it was just a miracle that I made it. I could have been dead.
I feel ending things with her is the best thing. Now that I have a second chance to life, I think I’m just going to focus on developing myself and getting a woman who is responsible to marry.
I’ve blocked her but she’s been texting and calling with other numbers. She doesn’t want to let me go. She shows up at my house uninvited. What should I do to avoid her? I need your advice, please.
FG/EB
Meanwhile, watch the latest episode of Nkommo Wo Ho on GhanaWeb TV below
The Duke of Edinburgh, His Royal Highness Prince Edward, arrived in Ghana on Sunday, November 23, 2025, for a two-day working visit aimed at deepening the modern partnership between Ghana and the United Kingdom.
The visit is centred on climate-smart development, innovation, education, and inclusive sports, reflecting shared Commonwealth values.
During his stay, the Duke is expected to engage with President John Dramani Mahama, interact with traditional leaders, meet entrepreneurs, and observe UK-supported development initiatives across education and environmental sustainability.
On Monday, November 24, the Duke will travel to Aburi, where he will visit a kindergarten and a teacher-training classroom at the Presbyterian Women’s College of Education.
The engagement will showcase how Sabre Education, working with the Government of Ghana and supported by the UK, is enhancing play-based early childhood education and strengthening Ghana’s teacher preparation systems.
Also at the Aburi Botanical Gardens, His Royal Highness will tour a plant nursery dedicated to conserving native flora and training horticulture students.
He will also meet innovators in the UK and Ghanaian cocoa sectors whose work in sustainable trade, artisanal production, and inclusive growth continues to shape cocoa-farming communities.
The Duke is expected to plant a commemorative tree, following in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III.
In Accra, Prince Edward will interact with young entrepreneurs from 24 Commonwealth countries participating in the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship Programme Bootcamp, jointly delivered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK and Imperial College London.
The initiative supports startups tackling global challenges, highlighting the UK’s commitment to driving innovation and economic opportunity across the Commonwealth.
A major highlight of the visit will be his meeting with Ghana’s Paralympic and sports associations ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
The engagement will spotlight Ghana’s leadership in inclusive sports and the transformative impact of athletics on health, character development, and social cohesion.
The Duke, His Royal Highness Prince Edward, will also attend a UK-Ghana Creative Arts event celebrating bilateral collaboration in theatre and the creative economy. The programme features a performance of The Black Star – Teacher of Africa by Kofi Adinkra, honouring Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s legacy. Discussions are expected to focus on skills development, cultural partnerships, and investment in Ghana’s creative sector.
As part of his high-level engagements, the Duke will call on President Mahama and participate in a durbar with the National House of Chiefs, underscoring the strong ties between the British Royal Family and Ghana’s traditional authorities. He will also pay respects at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
Speaking ahead of the visit, the British High Commissioner, Dr. Christian Rogg, described the trip as a celebration of the “strong and evolving relationship” between the two nations, emphasising shared values and collaborative efforts in education, climate action, inclusive development, and innovation.
The visit will conclude with His Royal Highness attending the King’s Birthday Party at the British High Commissioner’s residence—a gathering of government officials, business leaders, civil society, diplomats, and members of the Ghanaian diaspora.
Chinese expansion in poultry market fueling egg glut – Farmers Warn
African Golden Food (AGF B.V) has secured $1 million in seed investment to advance climate-smart agro-industrial growth in Ghana. AGF B.V, a leading innovator in sustainable food and climate value chains, operates in Ghana, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
In a statement shared with The Ghanaian Times, AGF B.V said it was “thrilled to announce that it has successfully secured $1 million equity investment from FrugalFP B.V of the Netherlands and an Aberdeen group of investors, led by John Lind of Scotland.” The company was advised by Mubanga Kasonde of MK Consult, UK.
The investment will accelerate AGF’s initiatives to develop Africa’s first Smart Circular Agro-Food & Carbon Innovation Vehicle, a 10,000-hectare integrated agroforestry and cassava–sweet potato processing initiative in Ghana’s Kwahu Afram Plains. The project integrates modern agro-processing, renewable energy, and carbon sequestration through large-scale agroforestry to deliver food security, community prosperity, and measurable climate impact.
AGF aims to restore 10,000 hectares of degraded land, generate 2,500 rural jobs, and sequester over one million tonnes of CO₂ over the next decade, creating a scalable model for climate-smart investment focused on impact and inclusion.
Founder and CEO George Boakye Sarpong explained that AGF represents “the fusion of African enterprise and European partnership innovation anchored in purpose.” He added, “With the support of Marcel Kappe of FrugalFP and John Lind & Co., we are not only building a profitable agribusiness but also creating a regenerative blueprint for land restoration, youth employment, and carbon removal across the continent.”
The company’s vision aligns with Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy initiative, the Volta Economic Corridor, and the Konadu Economic Enclave Irrigation Project, supporting continuous, large-scale agricultural production that drives employment, value addition, and export growth.
Through collaboration with the Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA), AGF B.V benefits from land allocation, reliable water supply, and technical advisory services, enabling all-year-round production to meet domestic and export market demands. This partnership also supports GIDA in expanding irrigation infrastructure nationwide, promoting agribusiness development for other commercial farmers, and advancing economic transformation and regional industrialisation.
AGF B.V is building a network of visionary shareholders and strategic partners, including FrugalFP B.V (technology and operational efficiency), Bundesvereinigung Nachhaltigkeit (BVNG) in Berlin (policy and sustainability governance), and a growing team of European and African agritech experts. The company aims to bridge Africa’s agricultural potential and Europe’s green finance ecosystem.
AGF B.V pioneers circular agro-industrial systems integrating renewable energy, carbon farming, and community-led agribusiness. Its first major project in Ghana’s Eastern Region is supported by global development partners and private investors, forming a cornerstone of the European Union–Africa Green Transition.
BY TIMES REPORTER
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His Royal Highness Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh, arrived in Ghana on Sunday for a two day working visit designed to strengthen the evolving partnership between the United Kingdom and Ghana. The trip emphasizes cooperation in climate smart development, education, innovation, inclusive sports, and Commonwealth values.
The Duke began his engagements in Aburi at the Presbyterian Women’s College of Education, where he observed a kindergarten class and trainee teachers using play based learning methods. The programme, supported by Sabre Education and backed by the UK Government, is equipping Ghanaian teachers with skills to provide better early childhood education. The initiative aims to ensure universal access to quality early childhood education across Ghana.
At the nearby Aburi Botanical Gardens, Prince Edward toured a plant nursery that propagates and preserves indigenous flora while serving as a practical training space for horticulture students. Following a tradition shared by his late mother Queen Elizabeth II and his brother King Charles III, the Duke planted a commemorative tree symbolizing a long standing commitment to sustainability.
The visit includes meetings with entrepreneurs from both countries working in Ghana’s cocoa industry. These business leaders focus on artisanal production, sustainable trade, and inclusive growth that is helping transform cocoa communities.
In Accra, His Royal Highness engaged with participants of the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship Programme Bootcamp. Delivered in partnership between the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK and Imperial College London, the programme supports innovative startups from 24 Commonwealth countries tackling global challenges.
Prince Edward attended a UK Ghana Theatre and Creative Arts event featuring a performance of “The Black Star Teacher of Africa” by playwright Kofi Adinkra, celebrating the legacy of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. The event highlighted opportunities for collaboration in skills development and investment to drive sustainable growth in the creative sector.
The Duke also met with Ghana’s Paralympic and sports associations. The engagement stressed the power of inclusive sports in promoting wellbeing, character development and social cohesion, reaffirming Ghana’s leadership in the Commonwealth sports movement.
Prince Edward called on President John Dramani Mahama and participated in a durbar with the National House of Chiefs, highlighting the enduring relationship between the British Royal Family and Ghana’s traditional leadership. He also paid respects at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, honoring both Dr. Nkrumah and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah.
British High Commissioner to Ghana, Dr. Christian Rogg, described the visit as celebrating the strong and evolving relationship between the UK and Ghana, underscoring real results from partnerships spanning education, climate action, innovation, and inclusive development.
The Duke’s visit concluded with the annual King’s Birthday Party at the British High Commissioner’s residence. The event brought together key stakeholders from government, business, civil society, and the diplomatic community.
Prince Edward, the youngest child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, dedicates much of his work as a senior royal to empowering young people and promoting non formal education across the Commonwealth.
Hearts of Oak head coach Didi Dramani says his team’s can still challenge for the Ghana Premier League title despite their winless run.
Hearts of Oak extended their winless streak to three following a goalless draw against Young Apostles on Sunday.
Speaking after the match, the former Black Stars manager shared his optimism about winning the league.
“It’s still possible to win the league because we have over 30 matches more to play. We just have to turn our drawing streak to wins. If you want to win the league, you have to win games.”
Regarding the game, Dramani noted that the Phobians anticipated a highly charged contest.
“I think the game was what we anticipated. And we knew they would be motivated for the game because they were playing against Hearts of Oak. It was a game of few chances and more transitional plays.”
The coach admitted that there are several areas the team must work on as the season progresses.
“There are definitely things that we need to improve on.”
Hearts of Oak are winless in their last three matches, recording two draws and one defeat. The Phobians currently sit sixth on the league table with 18 points.
From 10 December, social media companies will have to take “reasonable steps” to ensure that under-16s in Australia cannot set up accounts on their platforms and that existing accounts are deactivated or removed.
The government says the ban – a world-first policy popular with many parents – is aimed at reducing the “pressures and risks” children can be exposed to on social media, which come from “design features that encourage them to spend more time on screens, while also serving up content that can harm their health and wellbeing”.
A study commissioned by the government earlier this year said 96% of children aged 10-15 used social media and that seven out of 10 of them had been exposed to harmful content and behaviour. This behaviour ranged from misogynistic material to fight videos and content promoting eating disorders and suicide.
One in seven also reported experiencing grooming-type behaviour from adults or older children, and more than half said they had been the victims of cyberbullying.
What platforms are affected?
The Australian government has so far named ten platforms to be included in the ban: Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit and streaming platforms Kick and Twitch.
It is also under pressure to expand the ban to online gaming. Fearing they may be targeted, gaming platforms such as Roblox and Discord have recently introduced age checks on some features in an apparent bid to ward off inclusion in the ban.
The government has said it will continue to review the list of affected platforms, and will consider three main criteria when doing so.
These comprise whether the platform’s sole or “significant purpose” is to enable online social interaction between two or more users; whether it allows users to interact with some or all other users; and whether it allows users to post material.
YouTube Kids, Google Classroom and WhatsApp are not included as they were not deemed to have met those criteria. Children will also still be available to view most content on platforms like YouTube, which do not require an account.
How will the ban be enforced?
Children and parents will not be punished for infringing the ban – it is social media companies who are charged with enforcing it, and they face fines of up to $49.5m (US$32m, £25m) for serious or repeated breaches.
The government says these companies must take “reasonable steps” to keep kids off their platforms, and use age assurance technologies – without specifying which ones.
Several possibilities have been raised, including the use of government IDs, face or voice recognition and age inference. The latter of these uses online information other than a date of birth – such as online behaviour or interactions – to estimate a person’s age.
The government is encouraging platforms to use multiple different methods. It has also said platforms cannot rely on users declaring their own age, or on parents vouching for their children.
Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and Threads, has announced it will begin closing teen accounts from 4 December. Those mistakenly kicked off could use a government ID or provide a video selfie to verify their age, the company said.
Snapchat has said users can use bank accounts or photo IDs to verify their age or take a selfie, which will be used to estimate their age.
The other affected platforms have not yet said how they will comply with the ban.
Will it work?
Without a clear idea of what methods companies will be using, it’s hard to say whether the social media ban will be effective – but concerns have been raised that age assurance technologies may wrongly block some users while failing to spot others who are underage.
The government’s own report found that facial assessment technology, for example, is least reliable for the exact demographic it’s needed to target.
Questions have also been raised as to whether the fines for infringement are big enough. As former Facebook executive Stephen Scheeler told AAP: “It takes Meta about an hour and 52 minutes to make $50 million in revenue”.
Critics argue that the ban, even if properly implemented, will not actually reduce online harm for children. Dating websites and gaming platforms are not included, and nor are AI chatbots, which have recently made headlines for allegedly encouraging children to commit suicide and for having “sensual” conversations with minors.
Others point out that teens who rely on social media for community will be left isolated, and argue that educating children about how to navigate social media would be more effective.
Communications Minister Annika Wells has conceded that the ban may not be “perfect”.
“It’s going to look a bit untidy on the way through,” she said in early November. “Big reforms always do.”
Are there data protection concerns?
Critics have also raised concerns about the large-scale collection and storage of data that will be required, and its potential mishandling, as platforms try to verify users’ ages.
Australia – like much of the world – has in recent years seen a series of high-profile data breaches, including several where sensitive personal information was stolen and sold or published.
But the government says the legislation incorporates “strong protections” for personal information. These protections stipulate that such information may not be used for anything other than age verification and must be destroyed once that has been done, with “serious penalties” for breaches.
It also says platforms must offer an alternative to the use of governments IDs for age assurance.
How have social media companies responded?
Social media companies were aghast at the announcement of the ban in November 2024. They argued it would be difficult to implement, easy to circumvent and time consuming for users, as well as posing risks to their privacy.
They also suggested it would drive children into dark corners of the internet and deprive young people of social contact. Snap – which owns Snapchat – and YouTube also denied being social media companies.
YouTube’s parent company, Google, is reportedly still considering whether to launch a legal challenge to the platform’s inclusion. It did not respond to a BBC request for comment.
Even as it announced that it would implement it early, Meta argued the ban would leave teens with “inconsistent protections across the many apps they use”.
At parliamentary hearings in October, TikTok and Snap said they still opposed the ban but would implement it.
Kick – the only Australian company included in the ban – has said it will introduce a “range of measures” and continue to engage “constructively” with authorities.
Do other countries have similar bans?
The ban on under-16s using social media is a world first, and other countries will be watching closely. Different approaches have been tried elsewhere to limit screen and social media time for children and keep them from accessing harmful material, but nowhere has put a total ban on the platforms involved.
In the UK, new safety rules introduced in July mean online companies face large fines or even the jailing of their executives if they fail to implement measures to protect young people from seeing illegal and harmful content.
Other European countries allow the use of social media under a certain age only with parental consent. In September, a French parliamentary enquiry recommended banning under-15s from social media, as well as a social media “curfew” for 15- to 18-year-olds.
Denmark has announced plans to ban social media for under-15s, while Norway is considering a similar proposal. Spain’s government has sent to parliament a draft law for under-16s to require their legal guardians to authorise access.
Meanwhile, an attempt in the US state of Utah to ban under-18s from social media without parental consent was blocked by a federal judge last year.
Will children try to get around the ban?
Teens interviewed by the BBC said they were opening new accounts with fake ages ahead of the ban – although the government has warned social media companies it expects them to detect such accounts and remove them.
Online, teenagers are also recommending alternative social media apps or giving tips they hope will help them bypass the ban.
Some teens, including influencers, have switched to joint accounts with their parents. Commentators are also predicting a surge in the use of VPNs – which hide the country a person is accessing the internet from – as happened in the UK after the implementation of age control rules.
Kissi Agyebeng has dragged Ofori-Atta (R) and others to court
Following ongoing investigations into the SML-GRA scandal, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) is expected to arraign former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, along with seven others, before the court on Monday, November 24, 2025.
In a statement issued on November 20, 2025, the OSP announced that it will also seek court orders to serve the charge sheet on accused persons currently outside Ghana’s jurisdiction.
This follows the filing of 78 charges against Ofori-Atta and the seven others over their alleged involvements in the SML-GRA deal.
On November 18, 2025, the OSP filed charges related to violations of Section 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), and Section 92(2)(b) of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663).
SML Scandal: OSP summons GRA boss, other top officials
Those expected to face prosecution are former GRA Commissioners-General Dr Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah; Emmanuel Kofi Nti; senior GRA officials Isaac Crentsil and Kwadwo Damoa; Ernest Akore, former Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Finance; Evans Adusei, owner of SML; and the company itself.
Earlier in 2025, the OSP declared Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive and called for his arrest.
Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has terminated all contracts between Ghana and SML.
SP/AE
All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:
Black Stars winger, Kudus Mohammed
Winger Kudus Mohammed’s return to action after a short injury layoff ended in an embarrassing defeat for Tottenham Hotspurs at the Emirates Stadium against rivals Arsenal.
Tottenham Hotspurs suffered their heaviest defeat in the North London derby against Arsenal on Sunday, November 23, 2025, on matchday 12 of the ongoing Premier League season.
A goal from Leandro Trossard and Eberechi Eze’s hattrick produced a 4-1 victory for Arsenal with Richarlison getting the consolation goal for the visitors.
Kudus Mohammed played 78 minutes of the game at the Emirates before he was replaced for Brennan Johnson.
Young Madrid player Ignatius Bossompem dies after collision in Division Two match
The Ghanaian was rated 6.1 for his performance in the game.
Kudus completed 1 successful dribble out of the 3 he attempted and also had 30 touches in the opposition box.
He also won 10 duels and had a 91 percent for accurate passes in the game. He had 10 accurate passes out of the 11 he attempted in the game.
JE
News Hub Creator1h
Veteran gospel musician Braa Kwaku has disclosed that his decision to leave the Ghana Prisons Service was influenced primarily by marriage. In an exclusive interview on Hitz 103.9 FM’s Praise Zone, he explained that his new family responsibilities prompted him to step away from his duties as a prisons officer.
According to Braa Kwaku, the choice to resign was deeply personal. He emphasized that it was not motivated by dissatisfaction or professional challenges but by a desire to fully commit to his marriage and family life. “Marriage was the reason I left the Ghana Prisons Service,” he stated, reflecting on the pivotal role his spouse played in shaping this decision.
He further explained that the demands of prison work often conflicted with his family obligations. “I wanted to give my spouse the attention and support that a strong marriage requires,” he said. The musician described this transition as a deliberate and thoughtful step, prioritizing his personal life without compromising his professional integrity.
Braa Kwaku also acknowledged the support of his wife, Philippa, who he credits as a source of encouragement throughout his career transition. He revealed that her guidance helped him align his life with his calling in gospel music, allowing him to dedicate more time to his ministry and artistic pursuits.
While leaving a stable position in the Ghana Prisons Service was a significant decision, Braa Kwaku said his former colleagues were understanding and supportive. He described the move as a necessary step towards personal fulfillment and professional growth in his chosen field of music.
His revelation has resonated with many of his fans and followers, who admire his willingness to prioritize love and family while pursuing his passion. The story underscores the impact personal relationships can have on career choices and highlights the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with family commitments.
Fidelity Bank Ghana, in a strategic partnership with the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIB) Ghana, has successfully hosted a specialised training workshop in Takoradi for over 20 journalists from the Western and Central Regions.
This initiative, part of Fidelity Bank’s long-term investment in the financial services industry, is designed to deepen the media’s understanding of the banking sector’s complexities, from regulatory trends to the nuances of financial statements, thereby enhancing the quality and insight of their reportage.
The training fulfills a promise made earlier this year by Fidelity Bank’s Managing Director, Julian Opuni, to invest in the capabilities of media partners to foster a more informed public discourse.
“A well-informed public is the bedrock of a resilient financial system. The media are our essential partners in building and maintaining that public trust,” said Julian Opuni, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank.
“Especially in a complex economic environment, it is our responsibility as a leading Ghanaian bank to invest in the ecosystem that ensures reportage is not just accurate, but also insightful. This training, in partnership with the esteemed Chartered Institute of Bankers, is a fulfillment of our promise to support our media partners, equipping them with the deep knowledge needed to analyse industry performance and report on banking matters with clarity and confidence.”
The workshop was facilitated by the CEO of CIB Ghana, Robert Dzato, ACIB, an ethics and finance expert with 20 years of experience at global institutions, including KPMG, Standard Chartered Bank, and Lloyds Banking Group.
Mr. Dzato led the journalists through technical sessions on the overview of the banking industry, the importance of ethical reporting and, critically, interpreting the Bank’s financial statements, providing them with the foundational knowledge to analyse performance and report beyond the surface.
The session was highly interactive, moving beyond a simple lecture to a dynamic forum where journalists engaged the facilitators, asking critical questions on risk, regulation, and reporting ethics, underscoring the media’s appetite for high-level, practical knowledge.
Recognising the current economic climate, the training also featured a vital session by Mimi Anane-Appiah, a Business Development Manager from Fidelity Securities Limited (FSL).
She spoke on “Investing in a time of uncertainty,” providing crucial context on topics including the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), urging the journalists to diversify, invest wisely, and understand the market to appreciate the risk.
This initiative in Takoradi serves as the launchpad for Fidelity Bank’s broader, nationwide commitment to elevating financial discourse, ultimately underscoring Fidelity Bank’s belief that a transparent and accurately reported financial sector is essential for sustainable economic growth.
By investing in the capabilities of its media partners, the bank is helping to elevate the public discourse and foster a healthier, more informed financial environment for all Ghanaians.
PwC urges caution as BoG eyes policy rate review
Nigerian rapper and activist, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has expressed dissatisfaction following the announcement of the rescue of 38 abducted members of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke Isegun, Eruku, in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Reacting in a post on his X handle on Sunday, Falz demanded clarity on what happened to the abductors behind the attack.
The government of Ghana has announced that it has received official confirmation from the United States of America that the 15% tariff imposed on Ghana’s cocoa and selected agricultural exports has been fully removed.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed the development in a Facebook post on Monday, November 24, 2025, noting that U.S. diplomats formally communicated the decision to Ghana’s Mission in Washington, D.C.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, the reversal took effect on November 13, 2025, following the signing of a new Executive Order by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The tariff removal rolls back a policy introduced during Trump administration, which had placed significant cost burdens on Ghana’s cocoa exports to the American market.
The rescission covers not only cocoa but a wide range of Ghanaian agricultural products, including cashew nuts, avocados, bananas, mangoes, oranges, limes, plantains, pineapples, guavas, coconuts, ginger, and assorted peppers.
Government officials estimate that with Ghana exporting an average of 78,000 metric tons of cocoa beans to the U.S. annually—at a spot price of about $5,300 per metric ton—eliminating the tariff could yield an additional $60 million (approximately GHC 667 million) in revenue each year.
The government has welcomed the announcement, describing it as a major boost to one of Ghana’s most strategic export sectors.
The U.S. remains the world’s largest importer of chocolate and cocoa products, making tariff-free access particularly critical for Ghana’s export earnings and market competitiveness.
Mr. Ablakwa added that Ghana and the United States are committed to strengthening cooperation and advancing mutually beneficial economic relations in the years ahead.
Popular Hollywood actress, Lupita Nyong’o
Lupita Nyong’o has sparked a powerful online debate after opening up about the unfair and repetitive roles she was offered right after winning her Academy Award for ’12 Years a Slave’.
In a new CNN Africa interview, the star said Hollywood kept sending her scripts that showed only suffering and slavery, even though she had just won one of the biggest honours in film.
Lupita Nyong’o said that after her breakthrough in 12 Years a Slave, she expected a wide range of stories. Instead, she received almost the same type of role again and again.
She shared that producers wanted her to play more characters linked to slavery or suffering. Lupita said this made her feel unseen and limited, even after proving her talent on the world stage.
She also spoke about think pieces questioning whether she had a future in Hollywood once the excitement of her Oscar faded. Lupita said this reaction was rooted in racism and colourism that still shape casting decisions.
A user on X wrote, “The way she talks about this with so much calm shows how strong she is. Hollywood really failed her”, capturing what many felt.
Lupita revealed that she refused to take roles that reduced African women to a single narrative. She said she wanted stories that allowed her to be more than pain.
She explained that even if it cost her opportunities, she wanted to protect her identity and her craft.
Her message was clear. She wanted to open the door for more African stories that show joy, creativity and complexity. A supporter commented, “Choosing legacy over easy money is elite behaviour. Respect for Lupita only grows”, and the reaction quickly went viral.
Her interview started trending within hours. Many fans said they were shocked that an Oscar winner faced such narrow offers.
Others said Lupita’s story proves how slow Hollywood still is when it comes to giving Black women varied and meaningful roles.
Not all reactions were supportive. Some questioned why she accepted the role in 12 Years a Slave in the first place. Someone wrote, “Now she talks after the Oscar.
But she needed that role first”, adding to the mixed tone of the online discussion. Even with these disagreements, most viewers praised her honesty and called her a symbol of strength and clarity.
The government of Ghana has announced that it has received official confirmation from the United States of America that the 15% tariff imposed on Ghana’s cocoa and selected agricultural exports has been fully removed.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed the development in a Facebook post on Monday, November 24, 2025, noting that U.S. diplomats formally communicated the decision to Ghana’s Mission in Washington, D.C.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, the reversal took effect on November 13, 2025, following the signing of a new Executive Order by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The tariff removal rolls back a policy introduced during Trump administration, which had placed significant cost burdens on Ghana’s cocoa exports to the American market.
The rescission covers not only cocoa but a wide range of Ghanaian agricultural products, including cashew nuts, avocados, bananas, mangoes, oranges, limes, plantains, pineapples, guavas, coconuts, ginger, and assorted peppers.
Government officials estimate that with Ghana exporting an average of 78,000 metric tons of cocoa beans to the U.S. annually—at a spot price of about $5,300 per metric ton—eliminating the tariff could yield an additional $60 million (approximately GHC 667 million) in revenue each year.
The government has welcomed the announcement, describing it as a major boost to one of Ghana’s most strategic export sectors.
The U.S. remains the world’s largest importer of chocolate and cocoa products, making tariff-free access particularly critical for Ghana’s export earnings and market competitiveness.
Mr. Ablakwa added that Ghana and the United States are committed to strengthening cooperation and advancing mutually beneficial economic relations in the years ahead.
Private legal practitioner Thaddeus Sory is questioning the value of Parliament’s vetting process.
In a yet-to-be-aired interview with KSM, he said the process has become disrespectful and flawed.
He argued that the conduct of Parliament has affected not only the nominee for Chief Justice but also another top judge.
“Apart from the disrespect to the nominee, it even went further to affect another justice, the most senior justice of the day, Justice Gabriel Pwamang, who was the chairman of the committee that recommended that the Chief Justice be removed.”
He suggested Justice Pwamang contributed to the current situation. “To some extent, I would blame Justice Pwamang because, I think I’ve said here or somewhere, that his own report is the problem.”
Mr Sory revealed that the Minority Leader was one of the reasons his client petitioned against the former Chief Justice.
“The Minority Leader was one of the reasons why I petitioned, or my client petitioned for the removal of the then Chief Justice. There was a huge count which mentioned his name and mentioned the acts that formed the basis of our petition.”
He pointed to what he described as an unprecedented courtroom advantage.
“We said he had set a precedent, in fact, a record in the court by being the only party, or being the only person who, within two hours, was able to get a full panel of the Supreme Court, presided over by the former Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Torkornoo, to give him orders that by the scope of the application before the court, no court in the world of the common law jurisdiction will give him.”
He also said personal ties influenced judicial interactions. He recalled what he was told during the proceedings.
“In the course of all of those proceedings, and after people who knew the two of them spoke to me, and said, ‘Don’t you understand that is his sister’.”
KSM asked, “Sister, in terms of what?” Mr Sory responded: “That they come from the same place. Two, when her father died, the Minority Leader hosted her visitors, and people who were there called me.”
Mr Sory said he was prepared to raise an objection against the Chief Justice herself. “If I had attended the next proceedings, the next person against whom I was going to raise that objection was the Chief Justice.”
He said he confronted the situation directly. “I said, you know, all of these arguments we are having back and forth, and you are literally descending into the arena of conflict is because somebody that you are close to is the plaintiff in this particular matter. Who was a plaintiff? It is Alexander Afenyo-Markin.”
Mr Sory also cited claims of financial interests. “Also, there is now information coming out that services are being rendered in the judicial service which are linked to Afenyo Markin.
He’s rendering those services and getting commercial profits from them, and huge ones.”
Mr Sory insisted the Minority Leader’s loud opposition has little to do with national interest.
“And so at this point in time, when Afinima is making it look like there’s a national public interest aspect of all of this nomination process, and there’s some dispute, and all of that, it has nothing to do with a minority position.”
He said it was all personal. “He sold it out to his colleagues to believe that, well, we all have to take a collective position against this, but it is a personal interest.
“And so the facts that we have show that you have an interest in her being there. And so he’s crying louder than every other person, because he has an interest in the woman being there.”
Mr Sory said Parliament must rethink the entire vetting culture. “I think they should… They should look at this whole idea of prior approval. The Constitution didn’t say vetting. It said prior approval of Parliament.”
The lawyer proposed a simpler, less theatrical process. “There ought to be another way; they look at your CV, and they’ve done your background checks. If you are calling you for any vetting, then there are specific areas they want you to clarify. Otherwise, Parliament should do an acclamation and you go.”
He added that poor performance can always be addressed. “And then if you come and you can’t deliver, your appointer is there, they will sack you.”
Mr Sory criticised the current system as a needless spectacle. “But they keep all of us glued to television, and we are sitting down there and watching a process that 95% of it is a joke.”
Myjoyonline.com brings you the front pages of the various newspapers across the country.
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 Ghanaian cedi slipped marginally on Monday, November 24, 2025, trading at GH¢11.12 to the US dollar on the interbank market.
The movement reflects the continued pressure the local currency faces against major foreign currencies.
Despite the depreciation, the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, assured Parliament during the presentation of the 2026 Budget that government remains committed to fiscal discipline.
He announced plans to achieve a primary surplus of 1.5% of GDP next year, a signal of tighter financial management.
Dr Forson further explained that the overall fiscal deficit is projected at 2.2% of GDP on a commitment basis and 4% on a cash basis.
Agriculture minister urges youth to engage in farming
He stressed that the government’s approach is designed to balance fiscal consolidation with economic growth, ensuring stability while still investing in critical development projects.
The measures, he noted, are part of broader efforts to strengthen confidence in Ghana’s economy, protect the cedi, and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.
Here’s how the cedi is faring on the Bank of Ghana interbank market:
• Dollar – Buying at GH¢11.11, Selling at GH¢11.12
• Pound – Buying at GH¢14.54, Selling at GH¢14.56
• Euro – Buying at GH¢12.79, Selling at GH¢12.81
Here’s how the cedi is trading at the forex bureaus
• Dollar – Buying at GH¢11.80, Selling at GH¢12.20
• Pound – Buying at GH¢15.30, Selling at GH¢16.20
• Euro – Buying at GH¢13.30, Selling at GH¢14.20
All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates | BizTech:
Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (L) and Justice Baffoe-Bonnie (R)
Veteran broadcaster Kwami Sefa Kayi has praised the love story and life decisions of Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie and his wife, Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, describing their journey as “a very beautiful story of posterity.”
Speaking on the Kokrokoo Morning Show on November 21, 2025, the journalist highlighted what he called a remarkable tale of sacrifice, discipline and destiny.
According to him, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, who once worked in the Ghana Prisons Service, made a significant personal sacrifice decades ago when he chose to resign from the service in order to marry the woman he loved who at the time was a junior officer and is now the Director-General of the Prisons Service.
“I find Baffoe-Bonnie’s story very interesting. He was in the Prisons Service and his wife the current Director-General of the Prisons Service was a junior officer.
“A junior officer cannot marry a senior officer, so he left the service so that he could marry her. At the end, the lady he left in the service is now the Director-General and he is the Chief Justice. It is a very beautiful story of posterity,” Sefa Kayi stated.
Parliament approves nomination of Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie shared details of this chapter of his life during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, November 10, 2025.
He revealed that he left the Prisons Service in 1988 after learning that, as a Deputy Superintendent, internal regulations barred him from marrying a junior officer.
He recounted joining the Prisons Service in 1988, undergoing six months of military training, and later being posted to Sekondi. It was there that he met Patience, who at the time had no rank and was a sixth-form student working within the service.
He served for about two years, but in 1990, when he was officially informed that marrying a junior officer would breach service rules, he chose love over career.
“Since the rules would not allow us to be together, I decided to leave the service,” he told the committee.
Following his resignation, Baffoe-Bonnie pursued a career in law, steadily rising through the ranks to become one of Ghana’s most respected judges
On the other hand, his wife, Patience Baffoe-Bonnie remained in the Ghana Prisons Service, rising through the hierarchy to become the Director-General one of the most powerful positions within Ghana’s security services.
AM
Ghana Armed Forces outlines new recruitment rules after El-Wak stampede
Parliament’s Defence Committee impressed with Accra military recruitment setup
Watch the promo to GhanaWeb’s latest documentary, which uncovers the evolution of ‘kayamata,’ an exploitative practice fueled by love charms and manipulation, titled, “The Dark Side of Kayamata,’ below:
The wait is over! The GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025 is officially launched. Let’s Celebrate impact, innovation and excellence across Ghana.
Who deserves to be honoured this year?
Nominate now 👉 https://ghanaweb.com/ghanaexcellenceawards/nominate
Food and Agriculture Organisation
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has reiterated its commitment to promoting gender equity and women’s empowerment and participation in agrifood system transformation on the continent.
Underscoring the importance of women’s participation in agrifood systems of the sub-region and across Africa, FAO maintains there is no pathway to efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems without gender equity and empowerment of women and girls.
Speaking to women agri-enterpreneurs and dignitaries at a Regional Workshop and Awareness-Raising on Gender Equity in Agrifood Systems in Accra, Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa-FAO, Dr. Abebe Haile-Gabriel says women continue to play integral roles in food systems globally.
The two-day workshop convened decision-makers, technical experts, civil society, farmers’ organisations and development partners from Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone to dialogue and advance policies guided by the CFS Voluntary Guidelines on Gender Equality and Women’s and Girls’ Empowerment (VG-GEWGE).
According to Dr. Abebe, women continue to face barriers in accessing land, finance, improved seeds, technologies, irrigation and extension services.
These constraints, he explained, are not only unfair but also economically costly and derail enthusiasm for women’s participation in food production.
A report by FAO on the Status of Women in Agrifood Systems, provides compelling evidence which shows that if women farmers had the same access to productive resources as men, the current 24 percent productivity gap could be closed.
Closing that gap, according to Dr. Abebe, would not only raise national GDPs but also reduce the number of food-insecure people significantly.
Agriculture minister urges youth to engage in farming
FAO interventions for deepening women’s participation in food systems
Across the continent, Dr. Abebe highlighted, the FAO is supporting governments to strengthen inclusive policies, apply gender-transformative approaches and generate gender-disaggregated data which can inform better decision-making.
According to him, the Organisation has since 2022 been implementing the Accelerator Mentorship Programme for Women-Led SMEs in partnership with International Agri-Food Network (IAFN) – an initiative that provides a one-on-one mentorship platform for women in agriculture.
Also, FAO has been in partnership with the Africa Risk Capacity Group to promote gender-responsive disaster risk reduction.
This collaboration, according to Dr. Abebe, helps countries design risk strategies that genuinely consider the unique vulnerabilities and capacities of women in the face of climate-related shocks.
“These examples show that progress is possible – and happening – but much more remains to be done. This is where the CFS voluntary guidelines for gender equality and women’s and girls’ empowerment become invaluable, as they provide coherent and practical framework to steer actionable recommendations on how to design, implement and monitor policies and programmes that close gender gaps in access to resources, services, opportunities and representation.”
In a keynote address, Executive Director-SWIDA Ghana, Hajia Alima Sagito-Saeed, asked agriculture stakeholders to implement policies that confront deep-rooted barriers which keep women on the margins of agriculture transformation.
She said Ghana can only be able to meet the SDGs if its agricultural policies are gender-responsive with chunks of resources – both political and institutional – being dedicated to empowering women farmers.
Coordinator-Feed Ghana Programme Mr. Bright Demordzi, who represented the Minister of Agriculture, said government is committed in empowering women to play vital roles along the agriculture value chain.
He mentioned government’s initiative that encourages cultivating home gardens and ‘Nkokor Nkitinkiti’ poultry as among the efforts targetted at women’s and young girls’ participation.
All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:
Al Nassr captain, Cristiano Ronaldo
Portuguese legend, Cristiano Ronaldo has taken over social media trends after scoring a stunning bicycle kick in Al-Nassr’s home win over Al-Khaleej in the Saudi Pro League.
Al Nassr on Sunday, November 23, 2025, whipped Al-Khaleej 4-1 at the King Saud University Stadium Riyadh to maintain their first position on the league table after 9 games.
Ronaldo after goals from Joao Felix, Wesley and Sadio Mane scored a beauty in stoppage time to seal a 4-1 convincing victory for Al-Nassr.
Young Madrid player Ignatius Bossompem dies after collision in Division Two match
The 40-year-old rose in the middle of the penalty area to meet Nawaf Boushal’s right-wing cross in the sixth minute of stoppage time at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh.
The goal was Ronaldo’s 954th in his career and was similar to the one he scored against Juventus in 2018 for Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final.
Check out some of the reactions below:
Cristiano Ronaldo pic.twitter.com/csmMttvI3N
— UNITED FAN🇿🇦 (@ZachMoerane) November 23, 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo! pic.twitter.com/NAA3SBt3u5
— KALYJAY (@gyaigyimii) November 23, 2025
Eei Ronaldo 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/JsheLRFTSa
— Agogo (@CyrusAgogo) November 23, 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo doing this at the age of 40. There’s players at the peak of their game right now who could only dream of doing this.
He’s the greatest to ever do it.
pic.twitter.com/Vwc9fFQ0BP— RMZZ (@BlancoRMzz) November 23, 2025
🫡 Ronaldo is back with another tap-in, dedicated to all the haters 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/IVDXymQmJx
— Svetlana (@laneksa7) November 23, 2025
Me watching Cristiano Ronaldo’s bicycle kick in:
2018 vs 2025 vs
Juventus Al Khaleej pic.twitter.com/5wwpRuAl8Q— DME 🇳🇦 (@dme_363) November 23, 2025
A perfect bicycle kick at 40? Ronaldo isn’t normal pic.twitter.com/Vj5zdkZxmA
— 🌹𝓐𝓴𝓾𝓪𝓱 𝓦𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓼🌹💙 (@akuahwritess) November 23, 2025
‘F*ck it, I’m Cristiano Ronaldo.’
— TC (@totalcristiano) November 23, 2025
Call it skill, call it instinct… we call it Ronaldo 🐐💛 pic.twitter.com/diFN85oBCI
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) November 23, 2025
A KING NEVER CROWNS HIMSELF.
WHAT A PICTURE 🤩👑 pic.twitter.com/SSQSBLuC84— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) November 23, 2025
FUCK EGO, I AM FOLLOWING EVERY CRISTIANO RONALDO FAN WHO LIKES THIS TWEET. 🐐#Ronaldo #CR7𓃵 #football pic.twitter.com/8NR46wM9iy
— Sachin Chaturvedi ☄️ (@RT_4_SACHIN) November 23, 2025
JE
The short cord lace gown has become an increasingly popular choice for women who seek elegance, charm, and sophistication in their outfits. This stunning piece of fashion combines the intricate beauty of lace with modern cuts, making it a versatile and stylish option for various occasions, from weddings to formal dinners or even a night out on the town. The short cord lace gown is an excellent choice for those looking to stand out while maintaining a refined, feminine look.
The standout feature of the short cord lace gown is the delicate lace fabric, which often features intricate patterns that add depth and texture to the dress. Cord lace, in particular, is known for its slightly raised, three-dimensional texture that gives the gown a sophisticated touch. This fabric allows for a play of light and shadow, enhancing the overall appearance and making the gown look even more exquisite. The fine detailing of the lace offers a timeless elegance, making it perfect for both formal and semi-formal events.
One of the most alluring aspects of the short cord lace gown is its versatility. While the short length allows for ease of movement and comfort, it also highlights the legs, offering a youthful and playful vibe. Whether you choose a sleeveless design, off-the-shoulder, or long-sleeve, the short cord lace gown can be tailored to suit various personal styles. The soft, flowing nature of the lace paired with the flattering silhouette ensures that women of all body types can feel confident and beautiful.
For accessorizing, a short cord lace gown can be paired with statement earrings, a chic clutch, and a pair of heels for a more glamorous look. Alternatively, for a more casual vibe, pairing it with a sleek pair of sandals or ballet flats can achieve a more relaxed, daytime elegance. The lace design also pairs well with light makeup and simple hairstyles, allowing the gown to be the focal point of the outfit.
A short cord lace gown is a beautiful, timeless, and versatile addition to any woman’s wardrobe. Its delicate texture, paired with its modern cut and elegant design, makes it a perfect choice for any special occasion. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a dinner party, or a sophisticated event, this gown will ensure you exude grace, charm, and confidence.
One of Ghana’s most celebrated actors, William Addo, popularly known as Akpatse, passed away peacefully on 22nd November 2025 after years of battling serious health challenges
Mr. Addo’s illustrious career spanned several decades, during which he earned national acclaim as an actor, lecturer, director, and cultural advocate.
He became a household name through his unforgettable performances on GTV’s Thursday Theatre and numerous other productions, where his unique style and comic brilliance captivated audiences across the country.
A consummate professional, Mr. Addo studied Drama and Theatre Studies at the University of Ghana and later earned a master’s degree in Acting and Directing from the University of Leeds, UK.
Beyond his iconic roles, he held key leadership positions, including Director at the National Theatre and Director of Programmes at the National Commission on Culture, while also lecturing in the Theatre Arts Department, mentoring many of Ghana’s celebrated actors and creatives.
In his later years, Mr. Addo faced significant health challenges, including visual impairment caused by glaucoma and cataracts, yet he remained a respected figure for his resilience and the enduring legacy he leaves within Ghana’s creative arts community.
2028 Election: Mahama’s record to secure NDC victory – Tanko
The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has announced an indefinite strike, effective Monday, November 24, 2025, citing the government’s failure to fully implement the National Labour Commission (NLC) arbitral award issued on 2nd May 2023.
The strike affects all 46 Colleges of Education in the country.
The decision was taken by CETAG’s National Executive Committee (NEC) in consultation with the National Council during an emergency meeting on 19th November 2025.
According to the association, continued government inaction has left it with no alternative but to withdraw all services across the country’s 46 Colleges of Education.
Key grievances cited by CETAG include the Non-Payment of all-year-round work compensation for additional duties performed in 2022 for 39 colleges, with only partial payment made to the Accra College of Education, the outstanding Book and Research Allowance arrears for the 2023/2024 and 2022/2023 academic years.
Additionally, the group expressed concerns about the outstanding Book and Research Top-up arrears for the 2021/2022 academic year, owed to Akrokerri College of Education, and the downgrading of some experienced teaching staff holding master’s degrees, undermining professional dignity and violating agreed conditions of service and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
In a statement, CETAG National President, Maxwell Bunu, and National Secretary, Fidelis Kamaayi, emphasised that the strike is a legitimate response to the government’s breach of agreements and disregard for legally binding labour directives.
They stressed that CETAG members will not return to lecture halls or supervise students until all grievances are fully addressed.
The Association reiterated its commitment to quality teacher education but warned that its members will not tolerate further exploitation or disrespect.
CETAG is calling on the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, and the Government of Ghana to act with urgency and good faith to resolve the disputes.
Chinese expansion in poultry market fueling egg glut – Farmers Warn
Popular Nollywood actor, Imeh Bishop Umoh, popularly known as Okon of Lagos, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to prosecute Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmed Gumi for terrorism.
Gumi has been known to push for negotiation with terrorists in their hide outs and also defending their actions.
Ronaldo scored 954th career goal against Al-Khaleej
Cristiano Ronaldo scored a stunning bicycle kick in Al-Nassr’s home win over Al-Khaleej in the Saudi Pro League.
Al Nassr on Sunday, November 23, 2025, whipped Al-Khaleej 4-1 at the King Saud University Stadium Riyadh to maintain their first position on the league table after 9 games.
Ronaldo after goals from Joao Felix, Wesley and Sadio Mane scored a beauty in stoppage time to seal a 4-1 convincing victory for Al-Nassr.
Check out Kudus Mohammed’s rating in Tottenham’s 4-1 defeat against Arsenal
The 40-year-old rose in the middle of the penalty area to meet Nawaf Boushal’s right-wing cross in the sixth minute of stoppage time at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh.
The goal was Ronaldo’s 954th in his career and was similar to the one he scored against Juventus in 2018 for Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final.
The Portugal captain also scored an overhead kick against Poland in the Nations League in November 2024.
Watch the goal below:
Cristiano Ronaldo! pic.twitter.com/NAA3SBt3u5
— KALYJAY (@gyaigyimii) November 23, 2025
JE
According to Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who disclosed the development in a statement posted on his Facebook page, the reversal took effect on November 13, 2025, after a new Executive Order signed by President Trump cancelled the levy.
“U.S. diplomats have confirmed to me that the reversal of the 15% tariff took effect on November 13, 2025, following President Trump’s new Executive Order. Ghana welcomes this positive development from the United States, which remains the world’s largest importer of chocolate and cocoa products,” the foreign minister said.
With annual cocoa bean exports to the United States averaging about 78,000 metric tons, and global spot prices currently hovering around $5,300 per metric ton, Ghana stands to gain an additional US$60 million (GHS 667 million) in annual revenue as a result of Washington’s decision.
The announcement extends beyond cocoa, covering a wider basket of agricultural products including cashew nut, avocado, banana, mango, orange, lime, plantain, pineapple, guava, coconut, ginger and assorted peppers, further widening the economic dividend for Ghanaian farmers and exporters.
The tariff cancellation follows months of shifting diplomatic dynamics between Accra and Washington, a period that has seen Ghana adopting a more cooperative posture toward the Trump administration’s immigration and deportation frameworks.
This came after the two governments reached a new agreement allowing the US to deport certain migrants to Ghana or, where necessary, to approved third countries.
The removal of the cocoa tariff is therefore being widely interpreted within diplomatic circles as part of a recalibrated US–Ghana relationship, in which Accra’s willingness to assist Washington on sensitive migration matters appears to be paying off.
For Ghana, the economic impact of the tariff reversal arrives at a critical moment as the government seeks new revenue sources amid tightening global financial conditions.
For the United States, the decision may reflect a strategic effort to strengthen ties with a politically stable West African partner at a time of growing global competition for influence on the continent.
The Kumasi High Court Five has extended the conclusion of hearings in the case challenging the legality of the marriage between highlife musician Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, and Akosua Serwaa Fosuh.
Justice Dorinda Smith Arthur, the presiding judge, moved the deadline for concluding the hearing and paving the way for judgment from Friday, November 21, 2025, to Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
The extension followed the inability of counsel for the plaintiff (Mrs Akosua Serwaa Fosuh) to complete the cross-examination of the only witness for the first defendant, Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu.
Proceedings were also disrupted by power cuts occurring a minute apart, each lasting about 20 to 30 minutes, during the cross-examination of the second defendant.
Earlier, proceedings had been delayed for about an hour due to the late arrival of a scholar from the Manhyia Palace who had been summoned to educate the court on Akan marriage, divorce and funeral rites.
During cross-examination, the first defendant acknowledged that he was not personally close to Daddy Lumba and therefore had limited knowledge of his marital issues.
However, Abusuapanin Owusu told the court that the information he provided in his witness statement regarding the late Daddy Lumba’s marriage to Mrs Fosuh and the second defendant, Odo Broni, was gathered through his own investigations.
He said, based on information from family members, the plaintiff returned the head-drinks (used as a symbol of marriage) to the deceased’s family, and that the then family head and other relatives accepted it.
According to him, this act signified a divorce, and therefore the plaintiff was no longer married to the deceased, though he did not personally witness the return of the drinks.
He added that his investigations showed that the late Daddy Lumba married the second defendant in 2010 and had six children with her.
He further stated that the deceased became ill about 10 years after relocating to Germany, though he could not confirm the exact timeline because the information was provided by the deceased’s younger sister, Ms Faustina Fosu.
He said the deceased later returned to Ghana due to poor health. Although he was not bedridden, his condition worsened over time, and his wife was not present to assist him.
According to him, it was during this period that the deceased met the second defendant, who took care of him until he recovered.
Abusuapanin Owusu said the younger sister of the deceased confirmed most of the information contained in his witness statement.
Ms Ernestina Fosu, the elder sister of the late Daddy Lumba, testified during her cross-examination by counsel for the first defendant that the deceased returned to Ghana to inspect building projects co-owned with his wife, and to seek traditional treatment for a spine-related condition.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The United States has officially lifted the 15% tariffs that were imposed on cocoa and certain agricultural products from Ghana, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced. According to the Minister, the decision took effect on November 13, 2025, following a new executive order from President Trump.
In a post on Facebook, Mr Ablakwa said U.S. diplomats confirmed the tariff reversal, stating, “the 15% tariff reversal came into effect on November 13, 2025, following President Trump’s new Executive Order.”
He elaborated that the list of now-exempt goods includes not only cocoa beans, but also other key Ghanaian exports such as cashew nuts, avocado, banana, mango, orange, lime, plantain, pineapple, guava, coconut, ginger, and various peppers.
This policy change comes as a major boost to Ghana’s cocoa industry.
With Ghana exporting an estimated 78,000 metric tons of cocoa beans annually to the U.S., and current spot prices around $5,300 per metric ton, this reversal could generate an estimated US$60 million (GHS 667 million) in additional revenue each year, the Minister noted.
Ghana has welcomed the decision, with Mr Ablakwa adding, “Ghana and the USA will continue to forge closer and mutually beneficial relations.”
What Led to the Tariff Hike
The tariff escalation followed a July 31, 2025, executive order by President Trump, which raised reciprocal tariffs on a number of countries, including Ghana, to 15%.
This move alarmed Ghana’s agricultural export sector, especially cocoa, which is central to the nation’s foreign-exchange earnings.
In response, the government of Ghana pushed back strongly. Deputy Trade Minister Sampson Ahi said Ghana was “prepared to engage at the highest levels” to challenge what it deemed unfair, noting that the U.S. does not produce cocoa domestically.
Analysts also saw this as a wake-up call for Africa more broadly, calling for deeper regional trade integration under frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Ghana Business News
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Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang is representing President John Dramani Mahama at the seventh African Union European Union (AU EU) Summit, scheduled for November 24 to 25, 2025, in Luanda, Angola.
The Vice President arrived in the Angolan capital on Saturday, November 23, and is expected to deliver Ghana’s national statement, highlighting key areas of focus including economic stability, job creation, food security, climate action, peace and security, and value chain development. A statement from the Office of the Vice President confirmed that Professor Opoku Agyemang’s participation underscores Ghana’s commitment to deepening cooperation with both African and European partners in addressing shared continental and global challenges.
The Vice President will articulate Ghana’s priorities and contribute to discussions on enhancing sustainable development, fostering economic growth, and promoting peace and security across Africa and Europe, the press release added. She will address an audience of Heads of State, AU and EU leaders, and key international stakeholders.
Her address will emphasize Ghana’s commitment to equitable Africa Europe partnerships grounded in mutual respect, shared prosperity and strategic cooperation. The Vice President is also expected to advocate for a more inclusive and representative multilateral system of global governance. She will outline Ghana’s priorities with particular focus on value chain transformation in agriculture and cocoa.
The two day summit, held under the theme Promoting Peace and Prosperity Through Effective Multilateralism, marks 25 years of AU EU partnership and coincides with the 50th anniversary of independence for Angola and several other African countries. The summit will be co chaired by Angolan President João Lourenço and the President of the European Council, António Costa.
The European Union will also be represented by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the AU by Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chair of the African Union Commission. Leaders from the 27 EU member states and 55 AU countries will meet to discuss peace, security, economic integration, green transition, digital transformation, and human development.
President von der Leyen stated at a news conference on the margins of the G20 summit hosted by South Africa that the European Union wants to be Africa’s partner of choice. She emphasized that partnership, openness, and fair competition are key messages that will shape engagements at the summit.
The summit aims to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as peace and security, economic integration, trade, multilateralism, green development, digitalisation, migration, mobility and human development. A strong, balanced, and forward looking EU Africa partnership is the goal for this milestone summit, according to official statements from the European Council.
Professor Opoku Agyemang’s participation follows a recent meeting with the European Union’s Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, where she reiterated the need for stronger, fairer, and more forward looking international partnerships. During that engagement on November 20, she spoke about the opportunities emerging within Africa in the face of current geopolitical challenges, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Vice President emphasized that future collaboration must be grounded in careful evaluation of previous arrangements. As we move forward, it is essential to review past agreements, address existing gaps, and build cooperation on equity, respect, and shared strategic interests, she stated during her meeting with Ambassador Skinnebach.
She noted that Ghana remains fully prepared to harness the AfCFTA’s potential and strengthen her role as a hub for regional trade and integration. The summit provides an opportunity for Ghana to advance these priorities on a continental and international stage.
The summit is taking place at a time of profound global uncertainties and shifting geopolitical dynamics. It offers an opportunity for both continents to reaffirm their shared commitment to multilateralism, solidarity, and joint action to address common challenges. The event also marks Angola’s Presidency of the African Union, underscoring Africa’s growing leadership role in global affairs.
Over the two days, leaders will participate in thematic sessions to discuss how to strengthen cooperation in key areas. The summit follows several preparatory events, including the AU EU Youth and Civil Society Forum held on November 20 to 21, which brought together young leaders, innovators, and civil society organisations from Africa and Europe to exchange perspectives and develop policy recommendations on issues including youth employment, innovation, climate resilience, governance, and social inclusion.
An AU EU Business Forum is also being held alongside the main summit on November 24 to 25. Co organised with African Business, European Business, and other private sector partners, the forum provides a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to explore partnerships in infrastructure, sustainable energy, agribusiness, manufacturing, digital economy, and the creative industries.
The 2025 summit comes three years after the sixth EU AU Summit held in Brussels in February 2022, where leaders agreed on a renewed and enhanced cooperation for peace and security as part of a Joint Vision for 2030. That summit also resulted in an enhanced and reciprocal partnership for migration and mobility.
Europe is Africa’s main trading partner and closest neighbour. The AU EU partnership continues to grow through regular summits, Team Europe Initiatives, Ministerial Meetings and joint regional and continental programmes. The partnership is guided by Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The African Union declared 2025 the Year of Reparations, emphasizing the necessity of justice for Africans and people of African origin. According to organisers, speeches on reparations are included in the agenda, marking the first time such a subject will be officially discussed at this level between the two continents.
Vice President Opoku Agyemang is scheduled to return to Accra on November 26, 2025. Her representation of President Mahama at the summit reinforces Ghana’s active engagement in continental and global governance processes as the country pursues its development priorities under the current administration.
Zito following a goalless draw at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena on Sunday has again bemoaned his team’s ineffectiveness in converting chances created in the course of game.
Asante Kotoko SC in their last 4 league matches, failed to score in two which offers constant headache to the head coach. Zito after their week 11 clash away, disclosed that FC Samartex were good in the first half whiles his side also got better in the second half yet failed to convert chances created.
He went on to say, Kotoko is chasing for the 2025/26 Ghana Premier league title.
“I don’t go into matches to defend, when I even went to Africa you all saw it. I don’t play to defend”
“The opponent will play and I will also play, but when I read the game and realize you’re on top then I manage the game but in this game it was a balance game”, Zito said at post-match.
“Samartex created more in the first half and we also created more in the second half but putting the ball in the net was the problem but we will still fight on”
Kotoko will next face Basake Holy Stars on Wednesday in Premier league outstanding game far away in Tarkwa.
Kissi Agyebeng is the Special Prosecutor
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has released a new update on its anti-corruption work, detailing recent convictions, prosecutions and financial recoveries for the state.
In the latest OSP-X Sunday Explore report on November 23, 2025, the office said 33 people are currently on trial in Accra, Kumasi and Tamale for various corruption-related offences.
It also outlined several ongoing investigations, billions of cedis recovered for the state, and a list of wanted individuals being pursued for corruption cases.
The update featured the OSP’s Youth Against Corruption (YAC) initiative, which aims to boost public involvement, especially among young people, in the fight against corruption.
OSP signals breakthrough in MIIF gold deal and fuel diversion investigations
The office also hosted the second edition of its “Evening with the OSP, Q&A Session” on X Space at 7:00 PM on November 23, giving the public a chance to ask questions and seek clarity on matters relating to the office.
A day earlier, on November 22, the OSP announced progress in two high-value investigations, one involving the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) and another concerning a large fuel diversion syndicate.
The office noted that these cases have reached “advanced stages” and said public interest is expected to grow as the probes move forward.
On the MIIF case, the OSP disclosed that it has taken statutory steps, including freezing accounts, seizing assets and restricting the movement of certain individuals.
Sunday Read
Stay informed. Read verified information and avoid misinformation.
Explore:
• 33 persons currently standing trial in Accra, Kumasi and Tamale
• Recent convictions
• Cases under active investigation
• Billions saved for the state
• Direct asset recoveries
•…— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) November 23, 2025
Meanwhile, watch the latest episode of Nkommo Wo Ho on GhanaWeb TV below
AK/AE
The study examined regional tariff structures, pricing methodologies and sector fundamentals
Ghana remains one of the best-performing and most balanced electricity tariff jurisdictions in Africa, according to a new comparative study by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC).
The analysis, conducted in line with the PURC Act 1997 (Act 538), places domestic electricity pricing near the continental median – reflecting what the regulator describes as a “cost-reflective yet socially responsible” tariff framework.
Drawing on cross-sectional tariff data from selected African countries as of March 2025, the study examined regional tariff structures, pricing methodologies and sector fundamentals.
It aims to guide regulatory policy, promote transparency and support the pursuit of sustainable, financially viable electricity supply.
Balanced, cost-based tariff framework
Ghana operates a hybrid, cost-reflective tariff-setting system in which tariffs are determined based on the actual cost of generation, transmission and distribution. This approach seeks to ensure financial sustainability for utilities – including ECG, NEDCo and VRA – while cushioning consumers against excessive increases.
This positions Ghana alongside more reform-driven markets such as Kenya, Uganda and South Africa, rather than subsidy-dependent systems in Ethiopia and Sudan where tariffs are kept artificially low at significant fiscal cost.
Residential customers in Ghana are charged using block tariffs, with lifeline rates designed to protect low-income households and higher-use bands applied to recover full supply costs.
How Ghana compares across the continent
The report highlights wide disparities in electricity prices across Africa, shaped by market size, generation mix, subsidy policies and regulatory maturity.
Agriculture minister urges youth to engage in farming
Central Africa:
Tariffs in countries such as the Central African Republic and Chad are among the highest and most volatile, reflecting constrained infrastructure and low economies of scale. Ghana’s tariffs are significantly lower, supported by better access, more reliable supply and consistent regulation.
Southern Africa:
Markets such as South Africa and Namibia maintain some of the continent’s highest industrial tariffs due to environmental levies and infrastructure costs. Ghana’s tariffs are lower, though similarly grounded in cost-recovery rather than heavy subsidisation.
West Africa:
Ghana sits in the moderate range within the sub-region – higher than heavily subsidised systems like Nigeria, but lower than smaller, inefficient grids such as those in Liberia and Sierra Leone. PURC’s regulatory discipline contributes to relative tariff stability and improved cost recovery.
East Africa:
Tariffs in hydropower-dependent countries, including Ethiopia and Uganda, are generally lower. Ghana’s tariffs appear higher by comparison, driven by its substantial thermal generation component which is sensitive to fuel prices and exchange rate movements.
North Africa:
Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco maintain some of Africa’s lowest tariffs, underpinned by substantial subsidies and low-cost fossil fuel resources. Ghana’s tariffs are higher, though PURC notes that the North African model is financially unsustainable in the long-term.
Regulatory models: Ghana among the continent’s most advanced
The study notes increasing diversity in electricity governance across Africa as countries shift from vertically integrated utilities to unbundled structures, enabling competition and private-sector participation.
Tariff methodologies vary widely:
Cost-Plus/Rate-of-Return: Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Mali
Price-Cap: Cape Verde, Niger, Senegal, Kenya
Revenue-Cap: Burkina Faso, Togo, Tanzania
Hybrid Models: Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa
Ghana is among a limited group of countries – alongside South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Mali and Niger – whose regulators explicitly compute the weighted average cost of capital (WACC) to guide investment remuneration.
A balanced and competitive tariff regime
PURC concludes that the country’s tariff system represents a balanced regulatory model, combining cost-reflective pricing with targetted subsidies for the poor.
While residential tariffs are higher than in heavily subsidised economies, they remain below those in fully market-driven systems such as Namibia and South Africa.
By maintaining commercial and industrial tariffs close to the African average, Ghana preserves its competitiveness for businesses while ensuring long-term sustainability of its utilities.
PURC’s periodic tariff adjustment mechanism – which accounts for exchange rate movements, fuel prices and efficiency benchmarks – remains central to preserving sector stability.
All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:
Former Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament and ex-Gender Minister, Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo, has publicly explained her decision not to support her former partner, Kennedy Agyapong, in his political endeavours. Speaking candidly, Adwoa Safo emphasised that her choice is grounded in both personal reflection and political principles, rather than their past relationship.
While she acknowledged her respect for Agyapong as both a person and politician, she noted that their political paths no longer align. “Politics isn’t about previous relationships or friendships; it’s about a shared vision and trusting leadership,” she said. She further explained that she prefers to support individuals whose values and aspirations match her own and better serve the communities she represents.
Although she did not reveal the candidate she supports, Adwoa Safo hinted that her choice is someone she believes can foster unity and drive development. “In politics, sometimes you have to make difficult choices to move forward,” she added. Her statements have sparked lively debate among political observers and supporters, with some praising her independence and principled approach, while others argue that her past connection to Agyapong warranted continued support.
Political analysts suggest that her decision could influence voter behaviour in regions where both figures are influential, potentially reshaping alliances and campaign dynamics ahead of upcoming elections.
Adwoa Safo remained resolute in her stance, concluding: “I wish him success, but I’ve chosen my path and intend to follow it confidently.” Her remarks underline a growing sentiment among politicians that personal history should not dictate political alignment, and that leadership choices must be guided by principles, vision, and the broader interests of the public.
Source:
https://x.com/Dek360Ghana/status/1953809510260220404?s=19
Although Star Wars is one of the most iconic sci-fi franchises of all time, there are other movies in the genre with similar charm. Since it first debuted in 1977, the Star Wars universe has consistently delivered excellent stories, and is a rare example of a sci-fi franchise that is perfect from start to finish. Fans of the Star Wars movies often find that many other sci-fi stories struggle to live up to the epic scope of the iconic franchise, but there are actually plenty of movies from the genre’s history that recapture some of the magic of Star Wars.
What makes Star Wars so compelling is the depth of its sci-fi world. There are other movies that create interesting and rich sci-fi settings, and though they might not be on the same level as Star Wars, they fit a similar profile. The best sci-fi movies are those that entertain and immerse their audience, and while they can’t all be masterpieces on par with Star Wars, the following movies are likely to capture the attention of fans of the sci-fi franchise.
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The Last Starfighter is one of those 1980s sci-fi movies you forgot was awesome. It’s a little dated in some ways, but no more so than the original Star Wars trilogy. Its premise is relatively simple: a human teenager is recruited to fight in an interstellar war after winning the high score in a simulation test disguised as a video game. Its continued popularity is an indication of its epic sci-fi appeal, and while it hasn’t been quite as influential as Star Wars, it taps into many similar tropes.
Considered by many to be one of the best sci-fi movies of the 1990s, The Fifth Element remains a sci-fi masterpiece. Its quirky characters and vibrant colors make it one of the most memorable space operas in living memory, and its assorted aliens lend it a unique air that strikes a similar chord to the Star Wars movies. Its high-stakes story about a daring mission is another thing it has in common with Star Wars, and its consistent popularity over several decades speaks for itself.
1983’s Krull is one of those great sci-fi movies that nobody saw. Though it has consistently divided opinions since its release, it has earned a cult following, who cite Krull‘s B-movie charm as a reason to love it even more. Categorized as a science fantasy adventure, Krull features then-inexperienced Liam Neeson and Robbie Coltrane early in their respective careers, and follows a group of characters who set out to rescue a princess from an alien fortress. Its story shares many of Star Wars’ ideas, allowing it to directly appeal to fans of the franchise.
While Starship Troopers might not feature the iconic sci-fi movie opening of Star Wars, its story taps into many similar ideas, albeit from a very different perspective. It follows young recruits in the military of the United Citizen Federation, an Earth-based government locked in a war with the alien Arachnids. Staunchly anti-war and bitterly satirical, Starship Troopers isn’t unlike watching Star Wars from the perspective of the Stormtroopers, and it scratches the same itch for epic sci-fi spectacle as the more popular franchise.
Although Firefly is one of those sci-fi TV shows that deserved another season, what it got instead was a movie continuation that wrapped up its story. 2005’s Serenity took the charm of the sci-fi western series and translated it onto the big screen, delivering an incredible space epic that was at once gripping, tragic, and hugely entertaining. Though it serves as a standalone entry into the short-lived franchise, Serenity is another movie that seems to capture the essence of what makes Star Wars and similar sci-fi stories great.
2021 saw acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve turn his hand to adapting Frank Herbert’s Dune to the big screen. Commonly cited as one of the stories that inspired Star Wars, seeing Dune done justice in a blockbuster movie with cutting-edge visual effects was an epic experience. Both Dune and its sequel, Dune: Part Two, serve as movies that feature sprawling and immersive sci-fi and exist very much in the same vein as the Star Wars franchise.
James Cameron’s 2009 movie Avatar was groundbreaking upon its release, and it remains one of the most impressive sci-fi spectacles of the modern era. Its story, which explores themes of colonialism and the greed of humanity, delivered a socially conscious sort of sci-fi that resonated with fans around the world. Its story features a resourceful group battling against imperial might despite the odds, and it serves as a perfect choice for those looking for something similar to Star Wars to sink their teeth into.
What do you think? Leave a comment below and join the conversation now in the ComicBook Forum!
Ghana’s government is advancing plans to legalize commercial motorcycle transport, known as okada, through a comprehensive licensing framework being developed by the Driver Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).
Kelvin Caternor, Deputy Director for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation at DVLA, announced the reforms at the Motor Riders Day Rally on Sunday, November 23, 2025. The event, organized by the National Christian Men’s Forum in partnership with 11 Christian men’s groups, brought together hundreds of riders eager to understand how the anticipated changes could reshape commercial motorcycle transport in Ghana.
Commercial riders will be required to pass an oral test, a theory test, and an eye test to ensure they become responsible road users, Caternor explained. Each motorcycle will receive a unique registration plate to simplify identification by law enforcement, while mandatory helmets with unique identification numbers will be required for both rider and passenger.
The measures aim to professionalize the activities of okada riders, enhance accountability, and protect their livelihoods. Okada services are already commonplace across Ghana, especially in Accra, where people use them mainly to escape traffic jams and for goods delivery. However, their operations remain illegal under current regulations.
Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe has directed DVLA to commence the registration and licensing of motorbikes for commercial use with immediate effect. During a working visit to DVLA’s head office in February 2025, the minister stated that legalizing motorbike use for commercial purposes would help reduce indiscipline on roads.
The move fulfills a major campaign promise by the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). During the 2024 election campaign, President John Dramani Mahama pledged to legalize okada operations, stating the promise was included in the NDC’s 2024 manifesto.
Cabinet has given the green light for a bill proposing okada legalization to be laid in Parliament for approval. The initial age limit qualification for okada riders has been reduced from 25 years to 21 years in preparation of the legislation.
The regulatory framework requires operators to belong to recognized unions, with membership linked to the right to operate. Unions will work with DVLA to train and certify riders, ensuring they are qualified to carry passengers. An ordinary motorbike riding license will not suffice for passenger transport; riders must obtain specialized commercial licenses.
Nikpe stated that significant progress is expected by the end of the first quarter of 2025, with full implementation following parliamentary approval of the legislative changes to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (Legislative Instrument 2180), which currently prohibits commercial use of motorbikes.
The legalization effort comes as transport challenges continue to burden urban areas. Traffic congestion remains a significant problem in Accra and other major cities, making okada an attractive alternative for many commuters. The government’s approach seeks to balance mobility needs with road safety concerns while providing economic opportunities for thousands of riders.
Industry observers estimate the okada business employs hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians. During his 2024 campaign, Mahama referenced figures suggesting over 1.7 million people were engaged in okada operations.
The DVLA has reserved space at its Accra Regional Office to facilitate training and testing of okada riders around the clock to register all operators. Minister Nikpe also urged DVLA to leverage technology to enhance operations and eliminate the activities of middlemen known locally as “goro boys”.
Ghana’s regulatory approach mirrors efforts in other African countries. The government has studied regulatory approaches in countries including Rwanda and intends to apply lessons from those experiences. The framework aims to make it easier to monitor riders and enforce discipline at traffic points and junctions.
The incident occurred during the Fuji musician’s performance at a burial ceremony
Famous Nigerian musician Obesere was reportedly attacked by a notorious thug, Michael Abbey, popularly known as “Emir” in Ondo State, where he performed on November 21, 2025.
The incident reportedly occurred during the Fuji musician’s performance at a burial ceremony held at the Government Field in Okitipupa.
Thugs allegedly stormed the venue without warning and unleashed violence on the singer and his crew, forcing guests to flee for safety.
Obesere’s manager, who attempted to shield him, was stabbed with a broken bottle.
In the chaos, the musician’s mobile phone, wristwatch, and gold chain were reportedly stolen, along with a bag containing N4 million cash.
Narrating the incident to journalists, a witness identified as Bosede Akinyemi said, “I attended the event on Friday. It was truly a disgraceful act. A gang of local thugs attacked Obesere and his band while they were performing on the stage.”
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested three suspects in connection with the recent violent attack on Fuji musician Obesere.
Reacting to the incident, the chairman of Okitipupa Local Government, Soga Andrew Ogunsakin, in a statement made available to DAILY POST and shared on his Facebook page, condemned the attack.
While assuring the public of his commitment to ensuring accountability, Ogunsakin announced the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of Obesere’s stolen items.
“Upon receiving the report on the unfortunate incident involving Obesere, I immediately swung into action to ensure accountability and restore calm. I’m pleased to inform the public that three suspects connected to the disturbance have been arrested, while efforts are ongoing to track down other individuals involved. Some items said to have been stolen have also been successfully recovered.
“I have contacted Obesere’s management for a scheduled meeting. This will help me express deep concern over the incident,” he stated.
By Iddi Yire, GNA
Accra, Nov 23, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama and his wife, First Lady Lordina on Saturday mourned with Dr Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to the President, at the funeral of his mother, Mrs Salomey Mahama, in Salaga, Savannah Region.
Mrs Salomey Mahama died on 1st November, and has since been buried.
The funeral was attended by high profile personalities from the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
GNA
Christian Akorlie
A major rift has emerged within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as the Ahafo Ano South West MP, Hon. Elvis Osei Mensah Dapaah, has dramatically withdrawn his backing for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Dapaah announced his decision during a press briefing in Kumasi on October 28, 2025, lamenting what he sees as a troubling rise in indiscipline and disrespect inside the party.
The MP said he was pushed to this point after enduring what he described as needless and offensive attacks from the Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe Abronye. He argued that the party’s unwillingness to rein in such behavior reflects a much deeper issue of arrogance and disorder that has taken root.
“I can no longer support Dr. Bawumia,” Dapaah declared. “Abronye’s insults may target me, but they represent something bigger — the decay of our party’s values. A movement built on arrogance and unruliness cannot succeed.”
Dapaah, regarded as one of the rising young voices in the NPP, said the atmosphere within the party has become unbearable. He characterized the internal climate as “poisoned by disrespect,” insisting that he refuses to be part of a political project that excuses such conduct.
Abronye, known for his combative public comments, has a long history of attacking colleagues who challenge the party’s strategic direction. His latest tirades against Dapaah and other bold MPs have revived calls from members for the party to enforce stricter disciplinary regulations.
Observers say Dapaah’s withdrawal poses a serious setback to Dr. Bawumia’s 2028 presidential agenda. They note that his bold stand may encourage other dissatisfied MPs and party officers to speak up as internal tensions rise.
“The party must decide,” Dapaah warned. “Do we choose a path defined by values and integrity, or do we bow to threats and intimidation? For me, the choice is clear. I stand with integrity.”
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) is set to arraign former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and seven others today, Monday, November 24, 2025, over their alleged roles in the controversial Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) revenue assurance contracts.
The OSP filed 78 charges against the former minister and the other accused persons on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. The charges relate to corruption and corruption-related offences arising from contracts between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited.
The OSP has indicated it will ask the court to grant orders to serve charge sheets on some of the accused persons who are reportedly outside the country. The accused persons face 78 counts, including conspiracy to influence the procurement process to gain an unfair advantage in the award of contracts.
The accused persons include Ernest Darko Akore, aged 67, former Chef de Cabinet to the Minister of Finance; Emmanuel Kofi Nti, 66, former Commissioner-General of GRA; and Rev. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, 64, also a former Commissioner-General of GRA. Others charged include Isaac Crentsil, 63, and Kwadwo Damoah, 65, former Commissioners of the Customs Division; Evans Adusei, 62, CEO of SML; and the company itself, now known as Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited.
The OSP has indicated that efforts are ongoing to extradite Ofori-Atta, who is outside the country, after several unsuccessful attempts to secure his physical presence for investigations. His legal team has submitted medical records showing he was receiving treatment at Mayo Clinic in the United States for cancer diagnosed earlier this year.
The investigation reveals that Strategic Mobilisation Limited received over 1.4 billion Ghana cedis in public funds through contracts built on false claims, statutory breaches, and official patronage. Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has described the arrangement between GRA and SML as a masterfully crafted scheme orchestrated from the highest levels of government, with Ofori-Atta identified as the chief patron and promoter.
The investigation, which examined thousands of digital files and communications among key actors, established that there was no genuine need for contracting SML to perform its assigned functions. According to the investigation findings, the contracts were secured through self-serving official patronage based on false and unverified claims about the company’s capabilities and track record.
The OSP investigation discovered that Strategic Mobilisation Entrepreneurship Limited (SMEL), the precursor to SML, was incorporated on February 14, 2017, just three weeks after Ofori-Atta became finance minister and shortly after the New Patriotic Party won the 2016 presidential election. The company’s stated objectives were general trading and the import and export of goods.
Just four months after incorporation, the Commissioner-General of GRA, Emmanuel Kofi Nti, sought approval to engage SMEL through single-source procurement. However, the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) rejected two sole-source contract applications because the company did not have the needed competencies for the stipulated works.
After these rejections, the company changed its name to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited on November 22, 2017. Seven months later, GRA and the Ministry of Finance commenced what prosecutors describe as the unlawful award to SML of specialized revenue assurance public procurement contracts running into late 2023, covering transaction audit and external price verification, downstream petroleum, upstream petroleum, and minerals sectors.
The investigation found that former Commissioner-General Nti signed contracts related to the SML deal after he had retired on October 3, 2019, as the promoters and patrons were unsure whether the newly installed head of GRA would cooperate in signing the contracts.
The actions of Kenneth Ofori-Atta, Emmanuel Kofi Nti, Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, Isaac Crentsil, and Kwadwo Damoah created the opportunity for SML to largely pretend to perform the services under the various contracts, leading to immense financial loss to the Republic of about 1.4 billion Ghana cedis.
The matter came to light following complaints lodged with the OSP in December 2023 by three petitioners. Government intervention temporarily suspended performance of the purported services in early January 2024. On October 31, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama directed the termination of all public contracts awarded to SML by the Ministry of Finance and Ghana Revenue Authority.
The OSP has announced it will seek to recover funds lost to the state and has demanded that SML refund 125 million Ghana cedis, described as unjust enrichment that the company received unfairly from the state. The refund amount was calculated based on the principle of quantum meruit, a legal concept that ensures a person receives fair compensation for benefits conferred, even if the underlying contract is invalid.
In response, SML has fired back at the OSP’s recovery quest, insisting that Ghana’s government actually owes the company money for verified services rendered to GRA. The company has presented a detailed evidence dossier to the Presidency and the Attorney-General containing legal opinions, technical reports, financial reconciliations, and official correspondence from GRA and other state agencies.
A heated exchange erupted on the floor of Parliament on Friday, November 21, 2025, as Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin clashed over the continued absence of Ofori-Atta. Ayariga argued that health concerns had only become a matter of national debate because Ofori-Atta was required to account for his stewardship, noting that he was visibly sick while serving as Finance Minister.
Dr Sofo Tanko Rashid Computer, Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communication (GIFEC), has claimed every Ghanaian now looks cheerful due to the current government’s economic management.
Speaking on Accra-based Channel 1 television, Computer stated the economy has been stabilized after previously being in distress. He explained that Ghanaians no longer need to worry about economic conditions because they believe it is being handled by capable managers.
“Can’t you see now? Go and see their faces; they are now looking younger, and everybody is happy. When you see them so, so happy in the sense that there was single-digit inflation in eleven months,” he stated during the television interview.
Computer’s comments reference Ghana’s recent economic indicators. Ghana’s inflation rate fell to 8 percent in October 2025 from 9.4 percent in September, marking the lowest level in more than four years. This represents the tenth consecutive month of declining inflation.
The GIFEC CEO also highlighted the exchange rate situation, saying houses and cars are now being priced in cedis rather than dollars. Current data shows the dollar to cedi exchange rate stands at approximately 11.00 cedis to one US dollar as of November 2025.
Computer concluded his remarks by stating “Aban papa Aba,” a popular Twi phrase meaning “A good government has arrived,” suggesting public satisfaction with current economic policies.
President John Dramani Mahama appointed Computer as Acting CEO of GIFEC in February 2025, with him officially assuming office on February 14, 2025. Before his appointment, he served as Deputy National Director of Elections and Information Technology for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In his new role, Computer has articulated a vision for leveraging information and communications technology to address Ghana’s underdevelopment and empower citizens through digital literacy programs. GIFEC’s mandate focuses on facilitating universal access to electronic communications, particularly in underserved communities across Ghana.
The Acting CEO holds advanced degrees in public administration and criminal justice, though questions have been raised about the accreditation status of some of his academic credentials. He brings experience from previous roles including positions at the Youth Employment Agency and National Health Insurance Authority.
Economic analysts note that while inflation has declined significantly, challenges remain regarding purchasing power and living costs for ordinary Ghanaians. The government recently approved a 9 percent pay rise for public sector workers effective January 2026, though labor unions have expressed concerns this may not keep pace with living costs.
Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkono (L) and Alexander Afenyo-Markin (R)
Private legal practitioner Thaddeus Sory has alleged that Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin obtained an extraordinary and unprecedented favour from the Supreme Court under the then Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkono an action he says formed a major basis for the petition seeking her removal.
According to Sory, his client’s petition cited a key count involving the Effutu MP, describing how he became the only person in Ghana’s judicial history and possibly in any common law jurisdiction to secure a full Supreme Court panel within just two hours to hear his application.
Speaking in an interview with KSM, the lawyer insisted that the orders granted to the Minority Leader under Justice Torkonoo’s watch were of a nature no court operating under common law principles would ordinarily issue based on the scope of the application filed.
“We said that he had set a precedent indeed a record in the court by being the only person who, within two hours, was able to get a full panel of the Supreme Court presided over by the erstwhile Chief Justice to give him orders that no court in the world, in the common law jurisdiction, would give,” Sory stated.
The lawyer explained that this extraordinary access and outcome raised serious concerns for his client and contributed significantly to their petition for Justice Torkonoo’s removal.
Sacked Chief Justice Torkornoo wins key ruling against government at ECOWAS Court
He argued that the incident created an appearance of bias and raised questions about the relationship between the former Chief Justice and the Minority Leader.
Sory added that individuals familiar with both parties later approached him, suggesting that he did not understand the closeness between them.
He recalled being told that Justice Torkonoo and Afenyo-Markin “come from the same place,” and that when her father passed away, the Minority Leader hosted her visitors—claims he said were relayed to him by those present.
According to the lawyer, these revelations strengthened his conviction that if he had appeared at the next sitting of the proceedings, he would have raised an objection directly against the former Chief Justice.
Sory further stated that the conduct of the Minority Leader “even went further to affect” senior Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang, who chaired the committee that recommended Justice Torkonoo’s removal.
He argued that Justice Pwamang’s own report contributed to the problems surrounding the petition and maintained that the entire chain of events became clearer as proceedings unfolded.
The lawyer also alleged that new information indicates certain services within the Judicial Service are linked to Afenyo-Markin and that he financially benefits from them.
He suggested that this personal interest explains the Minority Leader’s strong public stance on matters related to the judiciary, including the nomination of Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie.
Beyond the allegations, Sory criticised the current parliamentary approval process for judicial nominees, insisting that the Constitution speaks of “prior approval,” not vetting.
He proposed an alternative method where nominees are approved based on background checks and CV reviews, with vetting reserved only for areas requiring clarification.
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With many families left traumatised by killings apparently linked to supposed magic rituals in Sierra Leone, BBC Africa Eye looks into those behind the trade in human body parts.
Warning: This article contains details some readers may find disturbing.
The mother of an 11-year-old boy murdered as part of a suspected black magic killing four years ago is devastated that no-one has yet been brought to justice for his death.
“Today I’m in pain. They killed my child and now there is just silence,” Sallay Kalokoh told BBC Africa Eye, explaining how her son Papayo was found with parts of his body removed, including his vital organs, eyes and one arm.
He had gone out to sell fish at the market and never came back.
His family searched for him for two weeks – and finally found his mutilated corpse at the bottom of a well.
“We always tell our children to be careful. If you are selling, don’t go to a corner or take gifts from strangers. It happens frequently in this country,” Ms Kalokoh said.
This murder in my hometown of Makeni, in central Sierra Leone, has haunted me as we often hear of reports of killings linked to black magic, also known as juju, that are never followed up or properly investigated by the authorities.
In Papayo’s case, the police did not even confirm that it was a “ritual killing” – when a person is murdered so that parts of their body can be used in so-called magic rituals by illicit juju practitioners.
They promise things like prosperity and power to clients who pay large sums in the false belief that human body parts can make such charms more potent.
But with the authorities severely under-resourced – there is only one pathologist in a country that has a population of 8.9 million – it is often impossible to gather the evidence needed to track down the culprits.
Belief in witchcraft is also so deeply ingrained in Sierra Leone, even among many police officers, that there is often a fear of pursuing cases further – and most go unsolved.
But I wanted to find out more about this underground trade in human body parts that leaves tragedy in its wake.
Our BBC Africa Eye team was able to find two people who claimed they were juju practitioners and offered to obtain body parts for ritual purposes.
Both said they were part of much larger networks – and one boasted that he had powerful clients across West Africa. The BBC was unable to verify these claims.
One member of our team went undercover, using the name Osman, to pose as a politician who wanted to achieve power through human sacrifice.
We first travelled to a remote area of Kambia district, in the north of the country near the Guinean border, to meet the juju man in his secret shrine – an area in dense bush where he consulted with his clients.
Calling himself Kanu, he wore a ceremonial red mask covering his whole face to conceal his identity and boasted of his political connections.
“I was working with some big, big politicians in Guinea, Senegal and Nigeria. We have our team. Sometimes during election time, at night, this place is full of people,” he claimed.
Election season is regarded by some as a particularly dangerous time when parents have been warned to take special care of their children because of the heightened risk of abductions.
On a second visit, Kanu became more confident and showed Osman what he said was evidence of his trade – a human skull.
“You see this? This belongs to someone. I dried it for them. It is a woman’s skull. I am expecting the person to pick this up today or tomorrow.”
He also pointed to a pit behind his shrine: “This is where we hang human parts. We slaughter here, and the blood goes down there… Even big chiefs, when they want power, come here. I give them what they want.”
When Osman specified that he wanted limbs from a woman to be used in a ritual, Kanu got down to business: “The price of a woman is 70m leones [£2,500; $3,000].”
Anxious not to put anyone at risk, we did not meet Kanu again. He may have been a scammer, but we handed over our evidence to the local police to investigate further.
Such juju men sometimes refer to themselves as herbalists, the name given to healers who use traditional medicine often made from local plants to treat common illnesses.
World Health Organization data shows that Sierra Leone – which suffered a brutal civil war in the 1990s and was at the centre of the Ebola epidemic a decade ago – had around 1,000 registered doctors in 2022, compared to reported estimates of 45,000 traditional healers.
Most people in the West African nation rely on these healers, who also help with mental health issues and treat their patients in shrines where there is an element of mysticism and spiritualism culturally associated with their craft and the remedies they sell.
Sheku Tarawallie, president of Sierra Leone’s Council of Traditional Healers, is adamant that “diabolic” juju men like Kanu are giving healers a bad name.
“We are trying very hard to clear our image. The ordinary person doesn’t understand, so they class us [all] as bad herbalists. One rotting fish can destroy the batch of fish… We are healers, we are not killers,” he told BBC Africa Eye.
Mr Tarawallie is in fact trying to work with the government and another non-governmental organisation to open a traditional medicine clinic to treat patients.
It was those with a lust for power and money who were often behind the ritual killings, he believed.
“When somebody wants to become a leader… they remove parts from human beings. They use that one as a sacrifice. Burn people, use their ashes for power. Use their oil for power.”
The number of ritual killings in Sierra Leone, where most people identify as Muslim or Christian, is not known.
“In most African countries, ritual murders are not officially recorded as a separate or sub-category of homicide,” Emmanuel Sarpong Owusu, a researcher at the UK’s Aberystwyth University, told the BBC.
“Some are misclassified or misreported as accidents, deaths resulting from attacks by wild animals, suicides, natural deaths… Most perpetrators – possibly 90% – are not apprehended.”
When we found another suspected supplier of body parts, he was located in a suburb of the capital, Freetown, called Waterloo, which is notorious for drug abuse and other crime.
“I’m not alone, I have up to 250 herbalists working under my banner,” the man calling himself Idara told Osman, who was again undercover and wearing a secret camera.
“There are no human parts that we don’t work with. Once we call for a specific body part, then they bring it. We share the work,” Idara said.
He went on to explain how some of his collaborators were good at capturing people – and on Osman’s second visit played a voice message from one of them who claimed they were prepared to start going out every night in search of a victim.
Osman told him not to proceed yet but when he later received a call from Idara claiming his team had identified a victim, we contacted Police Commissioner Ibrahim Sama.
He decided to organise a raid – but said his officers would not do so without the involvement of Mr Tarawallie, who often assists the police on such operations.
“When we got intelligence that there is a particular dangerous witchdoctor operating a shrine, we will work with the traditional healers,” said an officer on the raid, Assistant Superintendent Aliu Jallo.
He went on to express the superstitions some officers have about tackling rogue herbalists: “I will not go and provoke situations. I know that they have their own powers that are beyond my knowledge.”
After Idara was captured – discovered hiding in the roof clutching a knife – Mr Tarawallie began searching the property for evidence, saying there were human bones, human hair and piles of what looked like dirt from cemeteries.
This was enough for the police to arrest Idara and two other men, who were charged in June with practising sorcery as well as being in possession of traditional weapons used in ritual killings. They pleaded not guilty to the charges and have since been granted bail, pending further investigations.
As we never heard back from the police in Kambia about Kanu, I tried to call him myself to challenge him about the allegations directly, but he was unreachable.
There are occasions when even high-profile cases appear to stall. Two years ago, a university lecturer went missing in Freetown and his body was later found buried in what police say was the shrine of a herbalist in Waterloo.
The case was referred in August 2023 by a magistrate to the High Court for trial, but two sources have told the BBC it has not been pursued so far and those detained by police have been released on bail.
My family is facing similar hurdles finding justice. In May, during our BBC investigation, my 28-year-old cousin Fatmata Conteh was murdered in Makeni.
A hairdresser and mother of two, her body was dumped the day after her birthday by the side of the road where a resident told the BBC two other bodies had been found in recent weeks.
Several of her front teeth were missing, leading the community to believe it was a ritual killing.
“She was a lady that never did harm. She was very peaceful and hard-working,” said one mourner as family, friends and colleagues gathered for a big funeral at her local mosque.
We may never know the true motive for Fatmata’s murder. The family paid for her body to be transported to Freetown for an autopsy – something the authorities could not afford to do – but the post-mortem was inconclusive and no arrests have yet been made.
As is the case for Papayo’s mother, the lack of closure and feeling of abandonment by the police fuels fear and terror in poor communities like Makeni.
The Committee for Public Accountability is asking the Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, to move the court case of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to a different judge. The group says many people are worried that the current judge may not appear fully fair because the case is very political and attracts strong public interest.
The group believes that when a case is this important, it must be handled in a way that makes every citizen feel confident. They say that if people begin to think the judge favours one side, even if it is not true, it can hurt the image of the courts. They argue that the court system works best when everyone trusts it, so removing any fear of bias is very important.
They also explain that the law allows court cases to be moved when there is a reasonable fear that a judge may not be seen as fully neutral. The group says this does not mean the judge has done anything wrong. Instead, they believe that simply changing the judge can calm tensions and remind Ghanaians that justice is for everyone.
The Committee also thinks the case has become too political and emotional. Because many people are watching closely, they feel a new judge could help make the process smoother and prevent more arguments. They say the case involves very serious issues, so the public must feel comfortable with every step taken.
The group says they are making this request to protect the dignity of the courts. They believe that even small worries about unfairness can grow into bigger problems if nothing is done. They say a simple change now can prevent confusion later and help the case move forward without unnecessary pressure.
The Chief Justice has not yet said what he will do. Many people are waiting to see if the request will be accepted. Some think changing the judge will reduce tension, while others believe the case should continue as it is. For now, the public is watching closely, hoping the decision will help keep confidence in the justice system strong.
The case against Ken Ofori-Atta has already drawn a lot of attention, especially because it involves many allegations and a long legal process. This is why the Committee believes that keeping the public’s trust is just as important as the court’s final decision. They feel that when people trust the process, the outcome becomes more respected.
The group says they will continue to follow the matter and speak up whenever they feel the fairness of the justice system needs support. They believe the courts must be protected from doubt so that every Ghanaian can feel secure when seeking justice.
They say their appeal is not an attack on the judge or the court. Instead, it is a step they believe will help everyone — the court, the public, and the case itself.
Many Ghanaians are now waiting to see how the Chief Justice will respond, because his decision may shape how similar cases are handled in the future and how the country views fairness in the justice system.
Accra, Nov 23, GNA – The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) now spends about 25 per cent of its budget on hypertension and diabetes and their related complications, Dr Maxwell Antwi, the Country Director of PharmAccess, has cautioned.
He, therefore, urged urgent preventive action to reverse the trend, saying the two conditions were driving rising healthcare costs and placing the national health budget under severe pressure.
Dr Antwi was presenting on Innovative Financing Models for Healthcare Sustainability at the 2025 Annual General Meeting of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA).
He noted that the wider economic implications were equally concerning, with an estimated 30 per cent of the adult population living with hypertension or diabetes.
He emphasised that the growing burden of non-communicable diseases required health professionals to intensify preventive care to reduce long-term costs.
He, therefore, called for renewed prioritisation of health promotion and lifestyle interventions.
Better disease control, he advised, was necessary to protect productivity and safeguard the domestic and national economy.
Dr Antwi, however, observed that although financing pressures were mounting, there was a growing pool of private capital that could support the health system and stimulate medical tourism if the right partnership models were adopted by health professionals and entrepreneurs.
Dr Antwi recommended several financing institutions, including the Oasis Capital, Golden Palm Investments, the Investment Funds for Health in Africa and the Medical Credit Fund.
These, he stated, offered products ranging from small loans for health SMEs to multimillion-dollar equity for hospitals, diagnostics and pharmaceutical infrastructure.
These financiers, he said, were prepared to invest where bankable projects and efficient models existed.
To unlock that capital, he outlined partnership options such as Build–Finance–Operate–Transfer arrangements, management contracts, lease or concession models for laboratories and imaging centres.
Joint ventures for hospitals and pharmaceutical plants, and performance-based outsourcing for services, such as maintenance and diagnostics were also available.
He said these models helped revive dormant public-sector assets and improve efficiency, while maintaining government ownership.
“These are not privatisation schemes; they are pathways to efficiency, strengthened services and shared risk,” he explained.
Dr Antwi also highlighted how the NHIS’s digital transformation – from credentialing tools between 2008 and 2010, to biometric enrolment, and the digitisation of more than 90 per cent of claims had positioned the Scheme to make better purchasing decisions.
With the establishment of a Data Analytics Unit at the NHIA, Ghana is exploring value-based care reforms that depend on near real-time data.
These create an opportunity to “pay for outcomes rather than utilisation”, he noted.
A significant portion of his presentation focused on the ongoing value-based care (VBC) initiative for hypertension and diabetes being implemented with the NHIA and the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG).
The programme covers 22 facilities, with 2,534 of the targeted 2,750 patients already enrolled, representing 92 per cent.
Regional data show varying baseline blood pressure levels, with Ahafo recording an average systolic BP of 191 mmHg, far higher than other regions.
According to Dr Antwi, consistent monitoring and adherence to standardised protocols are yielding early improvements, with about 54 per cent of enrolled patients achieving consistently controlled blood pressure, compared to six per cent in the general population.
He said a combination of virtual and in-person care was helping patients achieve faster hypertension control and reduce costly complications.
Dr Antwi acknowledged challenges, such as staff turnover, policy gaps, the need for strict compliance with quality-of-care protocols and the importance of patient-empowering incentives.
However, he said, the investment case for health remained compelling.
He called for deeper collaboration between government, private investors and health professionals, saying: “We cannot solve Ghana’s health financing crisis working in silos. Partnerships, data and innovative models are the only way forward.”
GNA
Edited by Beatrice Asamani Savage
Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang is in Luanda, Angola, where she is representing President John Dramani Mahama at the 7th AU–EU Summit.
Her participation forms part of Ghana’s engagement with African and European leaders on shared development priorities.
She is expected to deliver Ghana’s national statement, which will outline the country’s focus on economic stability, job creation, food security, climate action, peace and security, and value-chain development.
The Vice President is scheduled to return to Accra on 26 November 2025.
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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.
Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (L) and Justice Baffoe-Bonnie (R)
Veteran broadcaster Kwami Sefa Kayi has praised the love story and life decisions of Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie and his wife, Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, describing their journey as “a very beautiful story of posterity.”
Speaking on the Kokrokoo Morning Show on November 21, 2025, the journalist highlighted what he called a remarkable tale of sacrifice, discipline and destiny.
According to him, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, who once worked in the Ghana Prisons Service, made a significant personal sacrifice decades ago when he chose to resign from the service in order to marry the woman he loved who at the time was a junior officer and is now the Director-General of the Prisons Service.
“I find Baffoe-Bonnie’s story very interesting. He was in the Prisons Service and his wife the current Director-General of the Prisons Service was a junior officer.
“A junior officer cannot marry a senior officer, so he left the service so that he could marry her. At the end, the lady he left in the service is now the Director-General and he is the Chief Justice. It is a very beautiful story of posterity,” Sefa Kayi stated.
Parliament approves nomination of Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as Chief Justice
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie shared details of this chapter of his life during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, November 10, 2025.
He revealed that he left the Prisons Service in 1988 after learning that, as a Deputy Superintendent, internal regulations barred him from marrying a junior officer.
He recounted joining the Prisons Service in 1988, undergoing six months of military training, and later being posted to Sekondi. It was there that he met Patience, who at the time had no rank and was a sixth-form student working within the service.
He served for about two years, but in 1990, when he was officially informed that marrying a junior officer would breach service rules, he chose love over career.
“Since the rules would not allow us to be together, I decided to leave the service,” he told the committee.
Following his resignation, Baffoe-Bonnie pursued a career in law, steadily rising through the ranks to become one of Ghana’s most respected judges
On the other hand, his wife, Patience Baffoe-Bonnie remained in the Ghana Prisons Service, rising through the hierarchy to become the Director-General one of the most powerful positions within Ghana’s security services.
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Watch the promo to GhanaWeb’s latest documentary, which uncovers the evolution of ‘kayamata,’ an exploitative practice fueled by love charms and manipulation, titled, “The Dark Side of Kayamata,’ below:
The wait is over! The GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025 is officially launched. Let’s Celebrate impact, innovation and excellence across Ghana.
Who deserves to be honoured this year?
Nominate now 👉 https://ghanaweb.com/ghanaexcellenceawards/nominate