US government explains inclusion of Ghana on 36 country visa ban
2025/26 Inter club competitions: CAF releases registration and match dates list as Kotoko & Gold Stars to submit 40-man squad
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released the registration and match dates for the Preliminary Round of the CAF Inter Club Competitions for the organization of CAF’s Interclub Competitions for the 2025/26 season.
Registration for the competitions will kick off effectively on 1st August 2025 and end on August 31, 2025. Each club is expected to register maximum 40 players and use 11 players in a match with 9 players and 9 officials on the bench with 5 players coming on as substitutes during the changes for substitution under the new directives.
The 2025/26 Interclub season is starting in September due to the organization of CHAN during the month of August; as a result, the deadline of Engagement has been extended to 31st July 2025 instead of the regulatory engagement deadline of 30 June 2025.
The second Registration window opens from September 1-30, 2025, while the Group stage and Knockout phase Registration is fixed for October 1-31, 2025. The first leg of the 1st Preliminary matches will be played on the weekend of September 19-21, 2025, and September 26-28, 2025.
The final of the 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup is scheduled between May 8 and 24, 2025.CAF has also stated that the additional of the second preliminary round of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup is still cancelled.
Consequently, teams eliminated in the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League will no longer transition into the Confederation Cup.
Teams that advance from the second preliminary round of the Confederation Cup will proceed directly to the group stage.
Via/CAF
Asamoah Gyan has blocked me again but I’m not upset
Asamoah Gyan (L) and Stonebwoy (R)
Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Stonebwoy, has disclosed that he has been blocked by former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan.
During a live session on social media, the BHIM Nation president spoke about his relationship with the former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan.
He described Gyan as someone he has always seen as a big brother. However, he admitted that their communication has faded recently.
Out of curiosity, he decided to check in, only to find out that Gyan had blocked him.
“Asamoah Gyan has been a big brother from time. I’ve hardly heard from him lately. I think the last time I checked, I was blocked,” Stonebwoy revealed.
He added that this isn’t the first time something of this sort has happened between them.
“I don’t know why but that wouldn’t be the first time. The last time, we checked and he was like I didn’t do nothing. We checked and realised it was nothing,” he explained.
Stonebwoy said he doesn’t take it to heart. He said he understands that people might be dealing with personal issues and prefers not to dwell on things he cannot control.
“Everybody is going through different things so you can’t take it too hard. Once you know your heart is pure and everything is clean, and especially when there is no room for conversation, you can’t really do too much,” he shared.
Oh buh why Asamoah Gyan Blocked Stonebwoy?
pic.twitter.com/es8c3L4SFG— NEBASARK🇬🇭 (@NEBASARK) June 25, 2025
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
AK/EB
Video of Akufo-Addo commissioning Adu Lodge, CJ Torkornoo’s ‘dreaded trial venue’ pops up
Former President Nana Akufo-Addo (L) during the commissioning the Adu Lodge (R) in December 2024
Suspend Chief Justice Torkornoo, at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, claimed the choice of the venue for the hearing of the three petitions for her removal, the Adu Lodge, was deliberately selected to intimidate her.
According to her, the Adu Lodge featured very prominently in the planning of the murder of three High Court Judges, and her uncle, Major Sam Acquah, on June 30, 1981, and was chosen for her ‘trial’ to make her “feel insecure”.
“Was Adu Lodge chosen for this inquiry to make me feel insecure? I think so. And I continue to hold the view that there is no reason to hold a quasi-judicial hearing behind the high walls of Adu Lodge,” she said.
Following the claim of Justice Torkornoo, videos of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo commissioning the Adu Lodge on December 23, 2024, have surfaced.
The former president, unlike the suspended Chief Justice, had only good things to say about the Adu Lodge (AL Adu Diplomatic Lodge), which was named after renowned Ghanaian diplomat Amishadai Larson Adu, describing it as a “gateway to possibilities.”
Amishadai Larson Adu was once a Deputy Secretary-General to the Commonwealth and Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s first Permanent Secretary when he was Prime Minister.
Here is what Akufo-Addo said about the AL Adu Lodge:
“I’m happy to be here today to commission the renovated AL Adu Diplomatic Lodge, a facility that embodies the generosity, vision and patriotism of one of Ghana’s finest sons, Mr Amishadai Larson Adu, AL Adu as he was popularly known. Today, as we reflect on this exceptional project, we celebrate not only the physical edifice before us but also the values and legacy of a man who dedicated his life to public service and diplomacy.
“Mr AL Adu’s contributions to Ghana and the international community serve as an enduring reminder of what one individual, guided by a sense of duty and love for his or her nation, can achieve. Mr AL Adu was a trailblazer, a man who walked with humility and yet left indelible footprints. His service to the nation is a reflection of his belief that diplomacy is not just a profession, but also a calling to bridge divides, foster understanding, and create lasting change. His work reminds us all of the power of service, and his life is an example for this and future generations of Ghanaians to emulate,” he said.
He added, “This lodge is a gateway to possibilities. It has been designed to accommodate Ghanaian and foreign diplomats alike… With its 15 presidential suites, advanced meeting facilities, and cutting-edge translation services, it stands as a beacon of Ghana’s commitment to fostering collaboration and addressing global challenges.”
Watch a video of Akufo-Addo’s remarks below:
BAI/MA
You can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb Tv below:
Ever heard of Nkofie, the legendary Kwahu cave believed to grant wishes? Join GhanaWeb’s People & Places as we take you on an exclusive tour of this mystical site:
BoG trains Eastern Region journalists to deepen financial reporting skills
The Eastern Region session is expected to push the total number of trained journalists to 100
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening media collaboration and enhancing financial literacy with a special training workshop for journalists in the Eastern Region.
The two-day training, which started from June 25, 2025 is part of a nationwide initiative to deepen the media’s understanding of key economic and monetary policy issues.
Speaking at the opening session, Bernard Otabil, Director of Communications at the Bank of Ghana, emphasised the importance of fostering an informed and capable media to accurately report on the Bank’s activities.
He noted that the programme, sanctioned by the Governor, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, reflects the central bank’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency, improve communication, and build public trust in Ghana’s monetary policy framework.
“This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering a well-informed media landscape, particularly in the areas of monetary policy, macroeconomic analysis, and financial reporting,” Otabil said.
He stressed that clear, effective communication from the Bank is essential for ensuring public understanding, maintaining credibility, and supporting macroeconomic stability.
The workshop, which is the latest in a series of regional engagements, follows similar training sessions held in the Volta, Western, and Ashanti Regions, with over 75 journalists trained so far.
The Eastern Region session is expected to push the total number of trained journalists to 100.
Otabil highlighted that these engagements have significantly improved the Bank’s relationship with regional journalists, helping to ensure that information about monetary policy decisions and financial updates is disseminated quickly and accurately across the country.
As part of this growing collaboration, the Bank has also created dedicated WhatsApp channels for press corps in the participating regions to receive real-time updates and policy briefings.
Otabil also announced that a similar platform would be established for journalists in the Eastern Region, pending the successful completion of the training.
Otabil also commended Governor Asiama’s leadership in introducing innovative, media-friendly practices at the Bank of Ghana.
These include the Governor’s pre-MPC briefing sessions with the media and the publication of Monetary Policy Committee submissions, which are now available for public review for the first time since Ghana adopted the inflation-targeting framework in 2007.
“These innovations have positioned Ghana’s central bank alongside global counterparts that prioritize transparency and robust media engagement,” Otabil noted.
He concluded by encouraging participants to fully engage with the training sessions and wished them success in the programme, which he officially declared open.
Over the course of the training programme, participants will be trained on several critical topics aimed at enhancing their financial reporting skills.
These include accurate reporting, the practice of monetary policy in Ghana, understanding inflation dynamics, recent developments in the foreign exchange market, responsible borrowing, central bank balance sheet management, as well as macroeconomic analysis and the significance of key economic indicators.
SWAG loses its fifth president Ebo Quansah
Ebo Quansah was the fifth president of SWAG
The fifth president of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG), Ebo Quansah, has passed away.
His passing comes shortly after the sudden death of Ackah Anthony, the sixth president of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG), who served the organisation with distinction.
Both of these legendary figures in Ghana’s sports journalism landscape left indelible marks on the association and the broader sporting community.
The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) announced Ebo Quansah’s passing, describing him as a true stalwart who made significant contributions to the association over several decades.
His career with SWAG began long before he became its president, as he steadily rose through the ranks, serving first as Deputy Secretary and later as Secretary-General.
During his presidency from 2001 to 2007, Quansah led SWAG through a period of growth and transformation, elevating the association’s profile and earning it greater recognition and respect within Ghana’s sports media landscape.
After his presidency, Quansah remained committed to SWAG, serving as a patron and sharing his expertise and mentorship with future generations.
Ebo Quansah’s dedication to sports journalism and advancing the profession will leave a lasting legacy in the hearts and minds of those who knew him.
PM/VPO
Meanwhile, watch as historian Annam details how Swedru All Blacks started as a military club
Court sentence Timileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for killing Salome Adaidu
The late Salome Adaidu (left) and Oluwatimileyin Ajayi
Di High Court for Lafia, Nasarawa State, don sentence Oluwatimileyin Ajayi to death by hanging for di death of National Youth Service Corp member Salome Adaidu.
Justice Simon Aboki wey preside ova di case sentence di suspect on Thursday.
Di judgment find Oluwatemileyin Ajayi guilty of killing and dismembering (cutting to piece) di late Salome Adaidu.
Dem bin charge Ajayi wit one count of culpable homicide contrary to Section 221 of di Penal Code of Northern Nigeria wey dey punishable by death.
Di late Salome mama bin tell BBC Pidgin say ‘Salome na my husband since my husband die, I want justice for my daughter’
Di suspect Timileyin Ajayi bin plead not guilty for court wen di hearing bin start.
Police bin gbab Timileyin Ajayi wey say e be gospel singer wit Adaidu head on Sunday 12 January near one church for Orozo.
One video wey bin go viral on social media, show as pipo surround Ajayi wen dem gbab am and begin ask am question about di human head of di lady wey be corps member.
Im bin tok say Adaidu na im girlfriend and add say dem don dey date for about one year. But Salome family deny am.
Tori be say Ajayi allegedly murder Salome wen she bin visit am for im house for Papalana axis for New Karshi for Karu local goment area of Nasarawa State.
Police bin parade Timileyin wit di knife and machetes wey im bin allegedly use commit di crime.
‘God dey in control of everytin’ – Family react to judgement
First born of di Adaidu family, Patience Unekwuojo Adaidu, tell BBC Pidgin afta di judgement for court say “notin fit bring my sister back, but im [Timeleyin] death dey sure, I too sure about im death ” she add.
She tell BBC Pidgin say “God dey in control of evritin”
Befor di mata go court, she bin make am clear say “Timileyin no be her [Salome] boyfriend” and add say dem as family no sabi di guy as her boyfriend.
According to Patience, late Salome bin get beta plans for life and her oga for Nicon Insurance bin just register her for one online training wey she dey do evri Saturday.
“Di first time wen dem bin call her to do dis professional course, na so my sister call me dey happy. She no dey spend money anyhow, she get beta plans for her life,” Patience add.
Salaome na 24-year-old wey bin dey do her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), for Nicon Insurance for Abuja, Nigeria capital.
She be di fifth pikin and fifth girl for a family of six.
Di late Salome mama bin tell BBC Pidgin say ‘Salome na my husband since my husband die, I want justice for my daughter’
How di mata progress
Afta police arrest am as di main suspect for di murder of late Salome Eleojo Adaidu, dem drag am go court.
Dis na afta di family of Adaidu bin call for justice as dem still dey mourn di tragic and sudden death of dia daughter.
Di High Court of Justice for Lafia, Nasarawa state start di trial of Ajayi before dem adjourn di trial to 17 – 20 March, 2025.
Dem rush di trial afta di judge wey bin preside tok say dem get to rush am sake of national interest.
Ajayi bin plead not guilty to di one count charge of culpable homicide wey dem sama ontop im head.
Ajayi bin show face for di High Court of Justice, Lafia, di Nasarawa State capital wia dem arraign am on Monday 27 January, 2025.
Na Justice Simon Aboki bin preside ontop di case for di hearing.
Channels report say di prosecuting counsel Stanley Nwaforagwu, afta di arraignment, tell tori pipo say “dem properly arraign di defendant, Timileyin Ajayi bifor di High Court of Justice, Lafia on a one-count charge of culpable homicide punishable wit death.
Dem take im plea and im bin plead not guilty to di charge and dem set di date for trial.
Afta di hearing period na on Thursday 27 June wey court sentence am to death by hanging.
Tourism Minister visits Agya Koo Nimo on President Mahama’s directive
The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, and her Deputy, Yussif Jajah, have paid a courtesy visit to veteran highlife maestro Agya Koo Nimo in Kumasi.
This was announced on Facebook by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who accompanied them on the visit.
The gesture follows a directive by President John Dramani Mahama to formally recognise the musician for his outstanding contribution to Ghana’s cultural heritage.
Agya Koo Nimo rose to prominence as a pioneer of palm-wine and traditional highlife music, forming the renowned Addadam Agofomma ensemble in the late 1950s. Bestowed with national honours—including the Order of the Volta in 2007, the Asanteman Award from the Asantehene, and multiple lifetime achievement accolades—he remains a revered figure in Ghana’s music landscape.
In his social media post, the Ashanti Regional Minister stated:
“Today, I had the honour of accompanying the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, and her Deputy, Hon. Yussif Jajah, to visit our legendary highlife musician, Agya Koo Nimo. This forms part of the President’s directive to honour our living legends and heroes who have contributed immensely to Ghana’s cultural and creative heritage.”
The Minister also disclosed that earlier efforts had seen support extended to 25 elderly members of the Kumawood film industry and families of late creatives, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to celebrating those who laid the foundations of Ghana’s creative sector.
Celebrated for blending storytelling with guitar rhythms and indigenous instrumentation, Agya Koo Nimo’s contributions helped shape Ghana’s musical identity. Beyond performance, he held leadership roles as President of MUSIGA in 1979 and interim chairman of COSGA in 1985 before receiving further global acclaim through his academic and musical engagements in the United States.
The President’s directive arrives amid growing calls for timely recognition of cultural icons, echoing his remarks at the Black Star Experience launch earlier this year, when he urged immediate ceremonies to honour Agya Koo Nimo now, rather than posthumously.
COKA calls for unity and reform at NPP Chairmen Caucus 2025 Conference
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) took a significant step toward revitalizing its internal structures and energizing its base as the 2025 Conference of the NPP Constituency Chairmen Caucus of Ghana commenced at the Longford Royal Center in Kumasi, running from June 20 to 22.
Themed the conference gathered over 275 constituency chairmen, party executives, and dignitaries to discuss strategy, internal cohesion, and preparations for the 2028 general elections.
Delivering the keynote address, Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (COKA) inspired the crowd with a message of unity, discipline, and renewal.
His speech was a passionate call to action that resonated deeply with party members grappling with internal challenges and public perception issues following the 2024 elections.
The Chairman emphasized the dangers of internal division and personal agendas, urging leaders to set aside religious, tribal, and economic differences in favor of collective strength. Quoting Psalm 133:1, COKA declared, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!”
He reminded the audience that the path to victory in 2028 requires forgiveness, teamwork, and a strategic commitment to ethical governance.
The speech also included a proposal to revise internal qualification structures, suggesting that only those who have served at polling station or constituency levels should be eligible to contest for higher office, including regional and national executive positions.
Throughout the address, Chairman COKA invoked powerful references from Eleanor Roosevelt, Martin Luther King Jr., and African proverbs to emphasize unity, collaboration, and responsibility.
COKA also urged party executives to actively participate in decision-making, foster transparency, and embrace dissenting views within the boundaries of respectful democratic discourse.
The conference serves as a major turning point in NPP’s organizational calendar, coming at a time when party members across the country are calling for reform, renewal, and stronger leadership structures.
With Chairman COKA’s rallying message still fresh in delegates’ minds, the NPP appears poised to take the first serious step toward internal healing and political resurgence.
Volta NPP grassroots declare support for Bryan Acheampong as unifying force ahead of 2028
In a bold move that could reshape the internal politics of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), grassroots leaders in the Volta Region have declared their unwavering support for Bryan Acheampong, hailing him as the most grounded and unifying figure capable of reconnecting party leadership with its base.
Speaking at a press briefing in Ho, Thelma Christable Adzimah, Women’s Organiser for the Ho Central Constituency, read a statement on behalf of a coalition of Electoral Area Coordinators, polling station executives, constituency organisers, and other grassroots operatives. The group described their decision as a “clarion call to rebuild the soul of the NPP.”
“We are not just endorsing a candidate; we are rallying behind a vision — a vision that prioritises inclusion, party unity, and grassroots empowerment,” Adzimah stated. “Hon. Bryan Acheampong embodies this vision. He listens. He engages. He delivers.”
The group praised Acheampong for his practical, people-centred leadership, highlighting his direct interventions in communities across Ghana, particularly in agriculture, education, and infrastructure. They cited borehole projects, distribution of farm inputs, educational support, and healthcare investments as examples of a leader who not only campaigns at the grassroots level but lives and works among the people.
“This is a man who understands that the party’s strength does not lie in Accra boardrooms, but in polling stations, electoral areas, and among hardworking foot soldiers who keep the party’s flame alive,” the group emphasised.
In what appeared to be a veiled critique of recent elite-driven endorsements, the coalition dismissed the idea that backing from former appointees or political heavyweights equates to grassroots legitimacy.
“Let no one confuse political visibility with grassroots acceptability,” Adzimah asserted. “True legitimacy comes from those who mobilise at dawn, knock on doors, and keep the party running in all corners of the country.”
The group also appealed for calm as the NPP prepares for its internal primaries, urging national executives and presidential hopefuls to place party unity above personal ambition.
“At a time when our party must be consolidating, we are seeing fragmentation. Bryan Acheampong is the only candidate who can bridge that divide. He brings calm, strategic thinking and unwavering loyalty to party structures,” they declared.
Political analysts see the endorsement as significant, particularly because it originates from the Volta Region — traditionally a challenging political terrain for the NPP. That grassroots operatives in the region are this organised and vocal around a single candidate may signal a broader shift within the party.
Currently serving as the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. Bryan Acheampong has earned a reputation as a pragmatic and forward-looking leader. His steady rise within the party is being closely monitored by both supporters and rivals, especially as he gains momentum among the NPP’s base.
Concluding their statement, the group reiterated their belief that the party’s future must be shaped from the bottom up — and that Acheampong represents that grassroots-driven future.
“The grassroots are not just watching — we are organising. And we are making our voice clear. The man who has walked with us, worked with us, and never abandoned us is the man we will walk with to victory. That man is Hon. Bryan Acheampong.”
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.
Respect agreed roadmap or face the consequences
The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has expressed strong disappointment in the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health for what it describes as a breach of an agreed roadmap aimed at resolving outstanding issues related to the implementation of revised conditions of service.
This follows the association’s decision to suspend its nationwide strike earlier this month, based on assurances from the Committee that concrete steps would be taken to implement four key items in the agreement.
However, GRNMA says the Health Committee has unilaterally rescheduled a crucial meeting initially planned for June 26 to July 10, 2025, citing the absence of some key stakeholders currently outside the country’s jurisdiction. The Association views the rescheduling as a lack of urgency in addressing their long-standing concerns.
Addressing a press conference in Accra on Thursday, June 26, the President of GRNMA, Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, criticised the development and urged the government to show greater respect for the nursing and midwifery profession.
She indicated that the revised collective agreement must be fully implemented no later than the end of July 2025, warning that failure to meet the agreed timeline in good faith could compel the Association to resume industrial action.
“The rescheduling of the meeting in our view is in bad faith, since it may further delay the implementation of the agreed items. We have, however, decided to give the committee the benefit of the doubt and still trust that their engagement with the ministries of health and finance would be productive.
“We demand the implementation of the four agreed-upon items not later than July 2025. This is non-negotiable, and we shall advise ourselves if any attempt is made to further delay the implementation,” she said.
Ghana Lacks Leadership Commitment to Fight Corruption – NDC Chairman
NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia declared Ghana’s leadership lacks genuine commitment to combat corruption.
Speaking at the African Governance and Anti-Corruption Summit at the University of Ghana on June 25, 2025, Nketia argued existing laws are sufficient but political will is absent.
Nketia, widely known as “General Mosquito,” stated corruption persists due to leadership’s failure to take decisive action. He emphasized that officials publicly condemn corruption yet avoid necessary reforms. According to Nketia, this contradiction undermines national development despite broad consensus on corruption’s harms.
The ruling party chairman specifically questioned the determination of Ghana’s leaders to enforce accountability. He observed widespread “pretense” in anti-corruption efforts across institutions. Nketia’s remarks highlight internal challenges within the National Democratic Congress (NDC)-led government under President John Mahama.
Political analysts note Nketia’s critique reflects persistent public frustration over high-profile graft cases. Ghana ranks 73rd out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index. The Mahama administration has pledged institutional reforms ahead of the 2028 elections.
Anna Wintour stepping down as Vogue editor-in-chief
After nearly four decades as the editor-in-chief of American Vogue, Anna Wintour is stepping down and seeking a replacement, the magazine’s publisher Condé Nast confirmed to CNN.
Wintour broke the news to staffers on Thursday, June 26. Although she’ll exit the top role at Vogue, she is not leaving Condé Nast altogether, but scaling back her duties. She will remain on as the publisher’s global chief content officer as well as Vogue’s global editorial director.
The new role replacing her atop the storied American fashion magazine will be titled head of editorial content.
As Vogue’s editor-in-chief, she reinvented the publication, transforming an increasingly unadventurous title into a powerhouse that could set and destroy both trends and designers.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
Though magazines shouldn’t be judged by their covers alone, Wintour’s covers signaled that she was unafraid of spotlighting lesser-known figures and eschewing the norms of high-end fashion titles. Her first issue, published in November 1988, was fronted by Israeli model Michaela Bercu in a pair of stonewashed jeans — the first time that jeans had ever appeared on Vogue’s cover.
This set a tone for the hundreds of issues that followed, and Wintour would go on to make countless editorial decisions her predecessors would have considered unimaginable.
Gone were the days of controlled studio headshots; in their place came casual, outdoor, upper-body shots.
In 1992, she broke with a century-old Vogue tradition by featuring a man on the cover (in the form of Richard Gere, who appeared alongside Cindy Crawford, his wife at the time).
Though Wintour is most closely associated with Vogue, in 2020, she became Condé Nast’s chief content officer, overseeing all its titles globally, including Vanity Fair, Wired, GQ, Architectural Digest, Bon Appétit and Condé Nast Traveler.
Rather than a retirement announcement, Wintour’s shift, as well as the new role atop Vogue’s US edition, are part of a wider global restructuring of the company.
Still, the changing of the guards is a seismic shift for American Vogue, offering a coveted opening for fashion editors as well as the opportunity for the industry’s most influential publication to head in new directions.
Two years ago, Chioma Nnadi became the first Black woman to lead British Vogue as she succeeded Edward Enninful’s own history-making six-year run as the magazine’s first Black editor-in-chief.
Accra Arts Centre fire leaves many homeless after gas explosion
The fire is said to have been caused by a gas cylinder explosion
A massive fire, caused by a gas cylinder explosion at the Accra Arts Centre, has left many people homeless.
The fire broke out on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, destroying over 50 wooden shops and homes. Thankfully, no lives were lost, but many people lost their belongings.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion, followed by flames and thick smoke. Although firefighters responded quickly, it took time to bring the fire under control due to the congested nature of the area.
Kwame Badu, the market chairman, said the fire started when someone was using a gas cylinder to heat water.
Many traders were seen searching through the wreckage for anything they could salvage.
Kojo Mensah, a woodcarver, said, “I lost everything. I don’t know what to do.”
Authorities are currently investigating the incident and working to provide assistance to those affected. They also reminded the public to use safer heating methods to prevent similar incidents in the future.
NAD/MA
Okudzeto Ablakwa issues stern warning to ‘goro boys’
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is the Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has issued a stern warning to individuals who act as agents in passport acquisition, commonly known as “goro boys,” for their continued interference in the process.
He stated that his administration has zero tolerance for such individuals and will not allow them to compromise the integrity of the system.
“We will not allow goro boys to infiltrate the system,” he said during a press briefing in Accra on Thursday June 26, 2025.
Ablakwa explained that these middlemen have devised new methods to circumvent the system by acting as couriers, as the current reforms at the passport office have significantly restricted their access to the process.
“We have also noted that since the reforms we have implemented eliminated goro boys, those notorious middlemen who took advantage of the inefficiencies of the old system to exploit Ghanaians, these goro boys, who are no longer having their way, are now trying to fashion a new entry point. I want them to know that we will not tolerate them,” he emphasised.
The minister also confirmed that the reduction in the cost of ordinary passport booklets from GH¢500 to GH¢350 is in full effect, adding that the Ghanaian passport is a security document and must be treated with the utmost seriousness.
SSD/MA
How social engineering hacks your mind and your bank account
Ghanaians slam Basintale over ‘unrealistic’ plan to export Ghanaian footballers abroad
Malik Basintale is the Acting CEO of YEA
Acting CEO of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Malik Basintale, has faced a wave of public criticism after revealing efforts to secure football opportunities for young Ghanaians in foreign clubs, an initiative citizens say misunderstands how professional football recruitment works.
The plan, which comes just months into Basintale’s appointment by President John Dramani Mahama, is intended to explore alternative employment paths for the youth through sports.
According to Basintale, negotiations are underway with foreign teams to create slots for Ghanaian footballers, as part of a broader attempt to widen the agency’s employment reach beyond traditional job sectors.
But the idea has drawn sharp responses from the public, particularly online, where many have argued that football doesn’t operate like formal employment sectors.
Critics have established that player transfers and recruitment are the domain of scouts, agents, and club networks, not government agencies.
Comparisons were made to football giants like Brazil, where even with abundant talent, such processes are not driven by political or public institutions.
To many, Basintale’s initiative feels more like political theatre than a realistic employment intervention.
Some citizens questioned whether it was a serious policy or just a ploy to appease party loyalists and score public relations points.
Others expressed concern that resources meant for youth development could be misdirected into efforts that fall outside the agency’s mandate or expertise.
Amid the backlash, the YEA have secured close to 3,200 vacancies through private sector collaboration, with all processes managed directly by those companies.
Read some of the reactions below:
Apuutoor….why now this guy he turn Agent anaaa he no have any idea as to what he’s doing. Koncert nkutiii day in, day out na 4yrs is up.
Jokers!!!!#DoersOverTalkers #FOCUS— Kwesi Asare Yeboah (@AwareKwesi) June 25, 2025
Everything is about slot to Ghanaians and not necessarily merit 😂
— addy kojo (@bilo__x) June 26, 2025
Stop this joke!! Do you think foreign clubs give a fuck about pur governance structure. Stop these propaganda.
— Sam Acquah (@OttoAcquah) June 25, 2025
Why is this guy so focused on sending our youth outside than bringing the jobs to them rather in Ghana??? What does this mean for our local football ?
— Amoako Afful🇬🇭 (@38en4ff) June 26, 2025
I believe that managing players is not the government’s responsibility. Instead, the focus should be on creating an environment that enables individuals interested in player management to acquire the necessary knowledge and financial resources to facilitate the movement of…
— Arhin Asamoah, MHA (@arhin10v) June 25, 2025
Daabia @malik_basintale has secured so,so and so job but still we no see anything. Ɛyɛ posting na ɛyɛ mo dɛ or what?
— Enoch Yeboah (@yeenoch753) June 25, 2025
The path you are treading, be careful ooo. Don’t forget it’s very slippery. I am only sharing my thoughts🤔💭. If you fail the young people plus scandals. You’d be so miserable. All your videos will be played back to you. Remember Vicky Mahama? She was sacked for being ambitious
— Phobia110 ⚪ ® (@NanaEssilfie) June 25, 2025
How can he do that? He’s a football agent now? You people dey joke too much
— Samuel (@sonofjacob2204) June 26, 2025
Settings government, you can’t even find a common job for your youth in the country, but you can find another Ronaldo for Manchester United, what a joke
— just2case (@just2case) June 25, 2025
FKA/EB
Meanwhile, watch as historian Annam details how Swedru All Blacks started as a military club
Kirsty Coventry makes history as first African and first woman to lead IOC
Kirsty Coventry made history as the first female and first African president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in March. The 41-year-old Zimbabwean, who succeeded former President Thomas Bach, made a commitment to transform lives and promote hope during a formal ceremony to mark her taking office this week.
“We are guardians of the Olympic movement,” Coventry said in her address to IOC members and other stakeholders, according to The Guardian. “And it’s not just about a multi-sport event. It’s a platform to inspire. It’s a platform to change lives. And it’s a platform to bring hope.”
Reflecting on how her life had also been changed by the Olympics, Coventry said, “I was very fortunate to have strong women around me from a very early age, from my grandmothers to my mom, to many of you women here in this room today, to my coach, Kim.”
In March, she easily defeated seven other candidates to take Bach’s place. The handover ceremony was held on Olympic Day, which commemorates the inauguration of the modern edition of the Games in 1894.
Coventry presented Bach with the Olympic Order in gold at the ceremony at IOC headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland. Bach also gave her the golden key to the IOC.
“You have placed your trust in someone whose life story is deeply rooted in the Olympic movement. As an Olympian, she knows what it means to live the Olympic values,” Bach said, according to Africa News.
“She knows how to lead with courage. She is driven by a desire to give back to our Olympic movement that has shaped her life. Now she makes history.”
Coventry thanked the more than 700 assembled guests—including IOC members, athletes, Olympic Movement representatives, delegates from international organisations, political leaders, and IOC staff.
“I am really honoured that I get to walk this journey with you and I cannot wait for anything that lies ahead, because I know I have the best team to support me and our movement in these next eight years,” she said.
Coventry was born in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe (previously Rhodesia), according to the IOC. At the age of two, she began swimming under the guidance of her mother and grandfather, and at six, she joined her first swimming club. Coventry, whose family was athletic, showed a spirit of competition from a young age.
Because Zimbabwe does not have indoor pools, she spent the winter months participating in school sports such as field hockey, cross-country running, and tennis. But her happiest moments were in the pool.
Coventry’s extraordinary Olympic experience began when she was 9 years old, watching the Olympic Games at Barcelona 1992 on television. The images of the amazing outdoor swimming pool and breathtaking scenery left an impression on her.
“Something about it just caught my eye,” she said. “I told my parents, ‘I just want to go to the Olympic Games one day and win Zimbabwe a gold medal.’”
At the age of 14, Coventry dislocated her knee while playing hockey, so she chose to concentrate only on swimming. She trained diligently and qualified for the first of her five Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000 at the age of sixteen. She made history as the first swimmer from Zimbabwe to make it to the Olympic semifinals, despite not taking home a medal from her four Sydney competitions.
Four years later, Coventry was in Athens, where she won three medals and became the first Zimbabwean athlete to win an individual gold medal after winning the 200-meter backstroke.
She won four more medals in Beijing in 2008, including three silvers and another gold in the 200-meter backstroke.
She participated in two more Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and London before ending her career after the 2016 Games. She won seven medals overall, including two gold, at the end of her Olympic swimming career, more than any other African competitor. Looking back, Coventry believes that the Olympic Solidarity scholarship grant was a major factor in her accomplishment.
She was a student at Auburn University in Alabama, USA, where she supported the “Tigers” to win three NCAA titles in 2002, 2003, and 2004. She earned a degree in hotel and restaurant management from Auburn.
In 2013, Coventry joined the IOC as an athlete. From 2018 to 2021, she served on the Executive Board and chaired the Athletes’ Commission. In 2021, she became an individual member on the Executive Board, and in 2023, she was re-elected to the Executive Board. Coventry came home to Zimbabwe when her swimming career ended, with the goal to contribute to the community.
She established the Kirsty Coventry Academy to train young swimmers. Together with her manager, Tyrone Seward, whom she married in 2010, they started a program to provide a safe environment for children aged 6 to 13 to participate in sports.
When Coventry was named Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation in 2018, she advocated for laws to stop sexual harassment, abuse, and match-fixing in sports.
Now, Coventry will lead the IOC through the next eight years, including the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.
Lekzy DeComic questions why musicians no longer sell CDs, pen drives amid thriving piracy
Ghanaian comedian and event MC, Lekzy DeComic, has sparked a conversation on the seeming disappearance of compact discs (CDs) and pen drives from official music distribution channels in Ghana, questioning why musicians are no longer tapping into that market.
In a recent Facebook post, the comedian expressed surprise at the thriving business of music piracy after observing unauthorised vendors selling CDs and pen drives loaded with local songs in traffic. He noted that several motorists were seen purchasing the pirated content.
“If people are out here selling musicians’ songs on CDs and pen drives and I just saw a few cars actually buying from one guy, then why aren’t musicians themselves selling CDs anymore?” he asked.
He added that the dominance of streaming platforms has not reached all sections of the public and insisted that physical formats still hold value.
“Charley, not everyone understands this streaming thing, so others are cashing in big time,” Lekzy wrote.
His post has stoked debate on the relevance of CDs in the Ghanaian music industry, especially at a time when piracy remains rampant and streaming royalties are still relatively low for many artistes.
Some industry players argue that CDs may no longer be trendy, but they are still a valid and potentially profitable distribution tool.
Music producer and sound engineer Kaywa had previously stated that physical copies of albums offer an intimate connection with fans and can be sold at events to create memorable experiences. Similarly, veteran musician Akosua Agyapong once noted that CDs, when properly branded, serve as collector’s items and contribute to merchandise revenue.
Another creative personality who has been very vocal about not discarding CDs and pen drives in music and movie productions is filmmaker Socrate Safo.
Safo, the former Director for Creative Arts at the National Commission on Culture, once emphasised the profitability of physical formats.
He said, “Compare the profit musicians gain from 100 people streaming your music to how much you earn from selling CDs and you will realise that CD sales are more profitable. Consumers are still there.”
About a week ago, a popular radio presenter also took to Facebook to mock up-and-coming artiste Wan‑O for selling his music at the Accra Mall—a comment that sparked backlash from fans who argued that grassroots sales are part of the hustle and should be encouraged.
Despite the surge in digital platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, and Boomplay, the issue of access and digital literacy remains a challenge in Ghana. Many consumers either lack the know-how or the internet bandwidth to engage with streaming fully, making physical sales a potentially untapped market.
“How Can a Sitting Chief Justice Ignore Settled Law?” – Sory Slams Torkornoo Over Misinterpretation
Prominent legal practitioner Thaddeus Sory has strongly rebutted claims made by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo, describing her recent public remarks as a demonstration of “sanctimonious political posturing” as reported by Ghana Web.
The Chief Justice, currently under suspension pending the outcome of three Article 146 petitions, held a press briefing in which she expressed dissatisfaction with the process, arguing that it lacked transparency and fairness.
She claimed that a public hearing was her preference and raised concerns over the legality of the venue for the proceedings.
Sory responded by highlighting what he called a troubling misunderstanding of constitutional principles.
He pointed out that the Supreme Court has consistently ruled that Article 146 proceedings must be held privately, citing decisions such as Justice Dery v Tiger Eye PI and Agyei Twum v A-G. “How can a sitting Chief Justice ignore settled law?” he questioned.
Torkornoo’s complaint about the rejection of her supplementary affidavit was also addressed.
Sory reminded her that she had previously struck out an affidavit in a landmark LGBTQ+ case, asking, “Has the Chief Justice so soon forgotten her own rulings on affidavits?”
He further dismissed her argument regarding petitioners’ standing, referencing Agyei Twum, which confirms that locus standi is not required in such cases.
Sory also clarified that Article 146 committees are not bound by C.I. 65 but determine their own procedures.
On her comments about the venue of the proceedings, Sory stated that similar hearings were held in judicial facilities during her time in office, stating that it is ironic for her to now feign unfamiliarity.
11 Powerful Natural Foods You Must Add To Your Diet To Combat Effect Of Ageing
Incorporate these powerful natural foods into your diet to combat the effects of aging and keep feeling and looking your best.
1. Drink water
Hydration is key to maintaining a youthful appearance and overall health.
2. Avocados
Rich in healthy fats, avocados provide essential nutrients like vitamin E and biotin, which keep skin hydrated and smooth. They also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect against UV damage.
3. Carrots
High in beta-carotene, carrots promote healthy skin and eyes. Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A, which is vital for skin repair and regeneration.
4. Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are loaded with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as antioxidants. These nutrients are essential for maintaining skin’s youthful appearance and preventing wrwrinkles.
5. Coconut oil
It has moisturizing properties and contains antioxidants that protect skin from damage. Consuming it supports skin hydration and elasticity from the inside out.
6. Tomatoes
They are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from sun damage and improves skin texture. Cooking tomatoes enhances lycopene absorption.
7. Garlic
It is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It helps to boost collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging.
8. Fatty fish
Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep the skin supple and hydrated. Omega-3s also reduce inflammation and protect against sun damage.
9. Grapes
Resveratrol, found in grapes, has anti-aging properties and protects against cellular damage. It also promotes a healthy cardiovascular system, contributing to overall vitality.
10. Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. They support skin health, reduce inflammation, and provide essential nutrients for cell regeneration.
11. Green Tea
Loaded with polyphenols and catechins, green tea reduces inflammation and protects against UV damage. Drinking green tea regularly can improve skin elasticity and hydration.
Following the foods mention into your diet may help you stay healthy all the day. Don’t forget to drink water, always stay hydrated. Thank you.
You’re a ‘small boy’ in NPP; tone down your utterances – Former MP slams Nana B
Former Subin Member of Parliament (MP), Eugene Boakye Antwi, has taken a swipe at New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, urging him to be more measured in his public utterances.
During an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Antwi described Nana B as a “small boy” in the party whose comments often lack the maturity expected of someone in his position.
“Excuse me to say, he is a small boy in the party. Being a National Organiser doesn’t make you a senior member. He is my young brother, and I will urge him to be measured in his utterances. His tone and language must reflect his position,” he said.
Mr. Antwi warned that speaking out of emotion could backfire. “When he talks out of emotion, we will also use emotions to vote. As a National Organiser, the masses must gravitate towards you, so you must be patient in dealing with the people. In rebuilding, we must be open to suggestions. If the ideas don’t help, we discard them, not insult people,” he cautioned.
His comments follow Nana B’s response to NPP stalwart Dr. Arthur Kennedy, who recently questioned the timing of the party’s presidential primaries.
Dr. Kennedy argued that choosing a flagbearer at this point after the party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections was premature and could be disastrous. He likened the party’s rebuilding process to constructing a building that requires a solid foundation.
However, Nana B dismissed the analogy, insisting the NPP’s structures are already in place and ready to support the party’s future.
But Mr. Antwi believes Nana B’s reaction was unhelpful and divisive.
“We need sober reflection, not bravado. Rebuilding after a loss takes more than structures—it requires humility, unity, and open-mindedness,” he said.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Stanbic Bank Joins BRIDGE-In Agric Programme
Stanbic Bank Ghana has joined BRIDGE-in Agriculture, an ambitious partnership involving Mastercard Foundation and CrossBoundary Advisory, to give Ghana’s agricultural sector a major boost through support for agri-SMEs (small and medium enterprises).
The initiative, Building Resilience and Investing in the Development and Growth of Entrepreneurs in Agriculture (BRIDGE-in Agriculture), seeks to unlock affordable funding, technical support, and training for entrepreneurs, particularly young women, and persons with disabilities operating within the agricultural value chain.
Marian Amartey, Head of Business Enablement for Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic Bank, indicated at the official launch of the BRIDGE-in Agriculture initiative that the bank’s strategic commitment aims to catalyze inclusive economic growth through deliberate collaboration.
The BRIDGE-in Agriculture Programme is a response to long-standing challenges faced by agribusinesses in Ghana, including high-interest loans, limited access to tailored financial services, and capacity constraints. Through this initiative, commercial banks like Stanbic will provide credit to SMEs at single-digit interest rates, significantly reducing the cost of borrowing and enabling businesses to expand operations and create employment.
With this new initiative, Ms. Amartey added that, the bank would be challenged to think outside the box and come up with tailored products that would support SMEs in the agribusiness chain and contribute to national development.
“We have also used this opportunity to design more client-focused solutions by identifying existing gaps in our product offerings. The true potential of agribusiness can only be realised when access to finance is coupled with skills development and market linkage support. This initiative challenges us to move beyond traditional banking models and to be more solution-driven in addressing the needs of underserved communities,” she said.
Taking his turn, the Head of Agribusiness at Stanbic Bank, Samuel Okang-Boye, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to transforming Ghana’s agribusiness landscape as a key partner in the BRIDGE-in Agriculture Programme. According to him, the bank is focused on empowering young women between the ages of 18 and 35 by offering tailored financial and advisory support under the programme.
“This initiative is not just about providing access to capital, it’s more about transforming agribusinesses. At Stanbic Bank, we are offering affordable loans with a maximum interest rate of 7%. But beyond finance, we’re equipping entrepreneurs with business development support, market access, and skills training to help them scale sustainably. That’s the real value of this partnership,” he stated.
Mr. Okang-Boye encouraged young people and women-led agribusinesses to consider Stanbic Bank as a growth partner.
BRIDGE-in Agriculture is a Mastercard Foundation initiative being delivered by a consortium led by CrossBoundary Advisory. The initiative targets agriculture and adjacent sectors and aims to position agribusiness as a viable and attractive option for young people seeking dignified livelihoods.
According to the Mastercard Foundation and CrossBoundary Advisory, collaboration with commercial banks ensures that the financial interventions are sustainable and scalable.
Portable Dares Bobrisky To A Fight, Demands ₦100 Million, Ferrari
Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Olalomi Badmus, known as Portable, has dared cross-dresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, to a physical fight.
Naija News reports that Bobrisky recently changed his name to ‘Afolashade’.
The socialite, known for his controversial lifestyle, shared that he has undergone surgical procedures to modify his gender, stating that no amount of criticism would stop him from achieving his desires.
Tragic – Several dead in a fatal crash on Accra-Kumasi highway
Several lives have been lost following a tragic head-on collision between a VIP bus and a cargo truck on the Accra-Kumasi highway.
Reports suggest the tragic accident occurred on Wednesday, June 25, near Oframase, close to Nkawkaw in the Kwahu West Municipality.
The information gathered suggests a VIP bus with registration number GR-2399 collided with an oncoming cargo truck loaded with flour, leading to several fatalities and some bodies beyond identification.
Suspended CJ alleges threat over refusal to retire
The suspended Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Araba Torkonoo, says she has received threats to the effect that if she fail to voluntarily retire, she will be made to suffer harm.
She was addressing journalists in Accra on Wednesday regarding the ongoing processings conducted by the committee of inquiry set up by President John Mahama to investigate petitions seeking her removal from office.
Justice Torkonoo told journalists that she decided to make a public statement because the violations which characterised the work of the committee had not stopped, but escalated beyond anything she could have imagined as possible in justice delivery.
She said the alleged violations of the committee include: the committee’s refusal, in breach of the rules of natural justice, to recognise my counsel on the first day of proceedings simply because I was not personally present, and proceeding to fix hearing dates and make arrangements for the hearing without involving her counsel, even though he was physically present.
Justice Torkonoo pointed out the committee’s failure to indicate the specific allegations in respect of which a prima case had been established as well as the reasons for same, to enable her to determine my legal rights or adequately prepare a defence to the charges against her.
The other violations, she emphasised, were the committee’s decision to permit two of the petitioners (Mr Daniel Ofori and Shining Stars) not to testify to enable her cross-examine them on their petitions; a denial of opportunity to be in the hearing room with her husband or a close family member; a thorough search on her body and handbags in violation of protocols and courtesies extended to the Chief Justice in honour of the country, domestically and internationally.
Justice Torkonoo indicated that the conduct of the hearings in a cordoned high security zone on Castle Drive, Osu, when all Article 146 proceedings since 1993, had been held in a judicial facility at the Judicial Service, Accra.
Additionally, she stated that the choice of venue, against the background of the secrecy of proceedings, was intended to intimidate her and to prevent any citizen of Ghana from knowing how the proceedings are being conducted.
The suspended Chief noted that the choice of the Adu Lodge reminds her of the murder of her uncle, Major Sam Acquah, and some judges on June 30, 1981.
“I need to make the disclosure at this point that the Adu Lodge facility that I am being tried in featured very prominently in the planning of the murder of Judges on June 30, 1981, and this can be read about in the Special Investigative Report on that terrible event in our national history. It will be recalled that Major Sam Acquah, the military officer who was killed with the three High Court Judges, had been the Director of Human Resources of GIHOC,” she outlined.
“He was my uncle and my guardian when I entered the University of Ghana in September 1980. I was also living with him at the time he was abducted and murdered. Was Adu Lodge chosen for this inquiry to make me feel insecure? I think so. And I continue to hold the view that there is no reason to hold a quasi-judicial hearing behind the high walls of Adu Lodge,” Justice Torkonoo added.
Moreover, Justice Torkonoo also accused the committee for refusing to give her copies of the petition and the prima facie evidence the President gave them.
“As we will all know, when a citizen is summoned to appear before a court, whether a district court, circuit court, high court, court of appeal or supreme court, or before any administrative or disciplinary committee in the office, it is the duty of the court or committee to give the citizen copies of the complaint that they are presiding over.”
She said no citizen in Ghana can be summoned without being given a writ of summons, a petition or complaint.
BY MALIK SULLEMANA
Court dismisses Agradaa’s application, imposes GH¢6,000 fine
Empress Gifty sued Agradaa for GH¢20 million
The Tema High Court has dismissed an application by Evangelist Patricia Asiamah, popularly known as Agradaa, to strike out a GH₵20 million defamation lawsuit filed against her by gospel singer Empress Gifty.
In addition, the court imposed a GH₵6,000 fine on Agradaa for the delay caused by her legal team’s absence.
The update was confirmed by Empress Gifty’s husband, Hopeson Adorye, who was present at the court premises.
“The court ordered her to pay GH¢6,000 to Empress,” he said, while being cheered by supporters who gathered at the court.
The court also granted an interim injunction preventing Agradaa from commenting about Empress Gifty on any social media platform.
Additionally, Agradaa is alleged to have insulted a lawyer, a letter demanding a retraction and apology has since been served
Empress Gifty’s main case now moves forward, with the next appearance scheduled for July 16, 2025.
The suit stems from allegations made by Agradaa during a May 13 live broadcast in which Empress Gifty was accused of engaging in morally questionable conduct with pastors and animals.
On May 20, 2025, Empress Gifty filed a writ of summons at the Tema High Court seeking GH¢20 million in damages for slander and libel.
She also requested a permanent injunction to prevent further defamatory remarks and the removal of all broadcasted content from social media.
At the first hearing on June 11, Empress Gifty’s legal team attempted to obtain an interlocutory injunction to restrain Agradaa from making further allegations.
However, proceedings were stalled when Agradaa’s lawyers failed to appear, citing improper service of court documents.
ID/EB
BAYA congratulates Mary Tagba for her nomination, confirmation as Tatale/Sanguli DCE
Accra, June 26, GNA-The entire Bassare Youth Association (BAYA) and the Bassare people of Ghana, have congratulated Mary Tagba on her appointment as the first lady District Chief Executive (DCE) for the Tatale/Sanguli District in the Northern Region.
“This achievement is a source of great pride and inspiration to the entire Bassares.
“Your appointment and confirmation is not only a demonstration of your dedication, leadership, and commitment to public service, but also an inspiration to women and young girls across the District, the region and the nation at llarge.
A statement signed by Toni JC Bakawu, General Secretary of BAYA and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra on Thursday added; “we trust that your leadership will bring about positive transformation, inclusive development, and strengthen unity and peace among our people.
“The Bassare Youth Association pledges its unwavering support and collaboration to ensure the success of your vision and initiatives for the district.
“Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved appointment. We wish you wisdom, strength, and God’s guidance during your tenure as you serve our beloved district with distinction”.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba
PANAFEST 2025 Launched –
A scene from the launch
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has officially launched this year’s edition of PANAFEST with a passionate call to amplify the movement for reparative justice through Pan-African artistic activism.
This year’s festival, themed “Let Us Speak of Reparative Justice – Pan-African Artistic Activism,” highlights the urgent need for a united African voice to address historical injustices and reclaim cultural identity through art.
Speaking at the launch held at Accra Tourist Information Centre on Monday, June 23, the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, welcomed stakeholders from across the country and the diaspora to the global cultural celebration.
Madam Houadjeto declared. “Ghana, as the Gateway to Africa, continues to open its arms to the African family and lead the charge for cultural restitution, identity reclamation, and historical truth.”
PANAFEST, which began in 1992, has grown into a globally recognised platform fostering cultural reconnection, dialogue, and healing for Africans and the diaspora.
The 2025 edition promises a robust lineup of events, including dramatic re-enactments, academic symposia, diaspora dialogues, youth conversations, and artistic showcases.
“From spoken word to digital storytelling, our creativity has always been the heartbeat of our survival,” she said, underscoring the role of the arts in both protest and healing.
Madam Houadjeto also emphasised PANAFEST’s alignment with Ghana’s National Reset Agenda, positioning culture and heritage tourism as critical drivers of national development.
She ended with a call to action: “Let us use PANAFEST 2025 as a platform to boldly speak the truths that must be heard and reclaim the narratives that have long been distorted.”
The media launch brought together government officials, traditional leaders, international partners, artists, and members of the public in anticipation of the upcoming festival.
Parliament passes bill to amend public holidays; check out the full details
He explained that the move is intended to boost productivity and allow citizens to enjoy extended weekends.
“Mr. Speaker, we are keeping 1st January as New Year’s Day, 7th January as Constitution Day, 6th March as Independence Day, March or April for Good Friday and Easter Monday for our Christian brothers, 1st May as Labour Day, and 1st July as Republic Day.
“It was pushed to commemorate it. We believe that this is a very significant day in the life of Ghana that we should not just relegate to the background, and therefore we are bringing it back as a full holiday. We believe that as a country, we are united around the 1st of July,” Mr. Mubarak explained.
However, the Minority strongly opposed the decision to fast-track the bill under a certificate of urgency.
They argued that the Mahama-led government is sidestepping more pressing national matters that deserve immediate parliamentary attention.
Ghana to host 2nd World Shea Expo in Tamale — Dr. Otokunor
Accra, June 26, GNA – The 2nd World Shea Expo 2025 is to be hosted at Tamale in the Northern Region, Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, the Director for Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness (PIAA) at the Office of the President, has announced.
The event is being organised in partnership with the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, Savanna Golden Tree Limited, and the Northern Regional Coordinating Council.
Dr. Otokunor made this announcement during an official visit to Nuts for Growth Ltd, an agro-processing factory for shea and soya, located in the Northern Region.
“The Shea Expo 2025 will highlight government’s commitment to rural industrialization and showcase the critical role of the shea industry in Ghana’s economic transformation,” Dr. Otokunor stated.
“It is a strategic platform to drive value addition in the shea sector, attract investment, create sustainable jobs, especially under the 24-Hour Economy initiative and boost the country’s foreign exchange earnings”, he said.
The expo is expected to focus on advancing the shea value chain, from harvesting and processing to export and innovation.
It is also expected to feature exhibitions, policy dialogues, investment pitches, and product showcases dedicated to strengthening Ghana’s position in the global shea industry.
Dr. Otokunor said further details would be published in due course.
GNA
Suspended CJ Torkornoo’s press conference sparks debate among some Ghanaians
Some Ghanaians have expressed mixed reactions to CJ Torkornoo’s suspension
A press conference held by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, has sparked widespread debate, with some citizens divided over her comments regarding the process for her potential removal.
“Processes against my removal break every rule on how justice is delivered in Ghana. This is why I find the need to draw the nation’s attention to the serious violation of the Constitution and the danger it holds for our democracy,” she said.
The conference, which addressed recent judicial controversies surrounding her suspension over alleged misconduct, has become a focal point of public discussion.
Some citizens, speaking to GhanaWeb on Thursday, June 26, 2025, remarked, “The Chief Justice’s removal is political. We heard President Mahama suggest the court is packed with NPP people and that his appointees should prepare to take over. It’s political.”
Maame Tiwaa added, “If they have valid grounds for her removal, they should make it public. I think it was appropriate for her to address the nation.”
However, critics have questioned the timing and appropriateness of her public comments.
Randy, another Ghanaian, said, “She shouldn’t have held a press conference while under investigation. President Mahama is just following due process as outlined in the Constitution.”
Meanwhile, some legal analysts have warned that parts of her statement may risk influencing ongoing proceedings, while others are concerned about the potential impact on judicial independence.
Watch their reactions below:
BNT/MA
Second Gas Processing Plant project reaches key milestone as final report is submitted
Dr John Jinapor, Minister of Energy (L) and Richard Gyan-Mensah, Deputy Minister of Energy
The Implementation Committee for Ghana’s Second Gas Processing Plant (GPP II) has submitted its final report to the Inter-ministerial Steering Committee at the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, marking a significant step toward enhancing the country’s gas processing capacity and energy security.
The report, the product of a month-long period of rigorous technical, financial, regulatory, and stakeholder consultations, outlines a comprehensive roadmap for the development and delivery of GPP II and its supporting infrastructure.
The project is part of Ghana’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on imported fuels and strengthen its industrial and power sectors.
The Committee’s work was guided by the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr John Jinapor and the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who co-chaired the Inter-ministerial Steering Committee overseeing the project.
Key findings from the report include:
• Potential savings of up to $1 billion annually by reducing Ghana’s reliance on liquid fuel imports.
• Recovery of Natural Gas Liquids (NGLs) valued at approximately $151 million per year.
• Creation of over 2,500 direct and indirect jobs during the construction and operational phases.
• Positioning Ghana as a regional hub for gas processing and energy exports.
Commenting on the report, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor described the submission as a crucial milestone for the country’s energy future.
“Today’s submission reflects our commitment to advancing Ghana’s gas future. GPP II is not merely a project; it is a crucial tool for achieving energy independence, fostering job creation, and driving industrial transformation. We commend the Committee for its dedication and clarity, and we are determined to act swiftly on its recommendations,” the Minister said.
The Minister also expressed appreciation to Richard Gyan-Mensah (MP), Chairman of the Core Technical Committee and Deputy Minister for Energy & Green Transition, Project Development Coordinator Guure Brown Guure, and all members of the Implementation Committee for their relentless efforts and strategic leadership.
The Ministry reaffirmed the government’s full commitment to the timely execution of the GPP II project, which is expected to unlock Ghana’s vast gas potential and contribute to the country’s long-term energy security and inclusive economic growth.
Cristiano Ronaldo extends Al Nassr contract until 2027
Ronaldo has extended his contract with Al Nassr to 2027
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially extended his contract with Al Nassr until 2027, putting an end to months of speculation about his future.
The Portuguese forward announced the news on Thursday, June 26, 2025, with a post on social media that read:
“A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”
Ronaldo joined the Saudi Arabian club in late 2022 after leaving Manchester United. Since then, he has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances across all competitions for Al Nassr.
The club confirmed the contract extension with a short statement that confirmed the new deal.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027.”
Talk of a possible departure had surfaced in recent weeks, especially after comments by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who suggested there had been interest from clubs wanting to sign Ronaldo for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
“There are discussions with some clubs, so if any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup, who knows, who knows,” Infantino said.
Ronaldo, however, dismissed those rumours earlier this month during a press conference ahead of Portugal’s Nations League final against Spain.
“It’s almost decided that I will not take part at the FIFA Club World Cup, despite receiving many invitations and proposals. There have been talks, contacts, but you have to think about short, medium and long-term,” he said.
There were also doubts after Al Nassr’s final match of the Saudi Pro League (SPL) season, where they lost 2-3 to Al-Fateh and missed out on qualification for the Asian Champions League Elite.
Ronaldo had posted on social media afterwards that his time in Saudi Arabia could be over.
“This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all.”
Many fans took that as a sign he might be leaving.
Despite that, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has now committed his future to the club.
With Al Nassr finishing third in the SPL with 70 points,13 behind champions Al-Ittihad, Ronaldo will be hoping to help the team bounce back stronger next season.
A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together. 🟡🔵 pic.twitter.com/JRwwjEcSZR
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) June 26, 2025
FKA/MA
Meanwhile, watch as historian Annam details how Swedru All Blacks started as a military club
Kenya protests are ‘coup attempt’, says minister
Kenya’s interior minister says police officers acted with ‘remarkable restraint’
Kenya’s interior minister has denied that the police used excessive force during Wednesday’s protests in which at least 10 people were killed, describing them as “terrorism disguised as dissent” and an “unconstitutional attempt” to change the government.
Kipchumba Murkomen thanked security agencies for their “remarkable restraint amid extreme provocation” crediting them with helping to “foil an attempted coup”.
In addition to the 10 deaths, more than 400 others were injured, including about 300 police officers, he said.
“We condemn the criminal anarchists who in the name of peaceful demonstrations unleashed a wave of violence, looting, sexual assault and destruction upon our people,” he said.
Key government installations and offices were targeted in the protests, he added, with nine police stations attacked, five of which were torched – and five guns stolen.
Dozens of vehicles, belonging to the police, government and civilians, were destroyed, he said.
Nineteen-year-old David Mwangi, who lived in Nairobi’s Mukuru informal settlement, was one of those who was shot dead.
His mother told the BBC that he was a bystander who had gone to pick up his younger brother from a tuition class. A tearful Rachael Nyambura Mwangi said that a bullet had gone through her son’s head.
“I am in so much pain,” she said.
“David was hoping to go to college to become a mechanic. He was my first-born and he was my helper. If I needed to fetch water or get something I would send him. I sell sweet potatoes and whenever I needed to get my stock I would send him.”
Student Dennis Njuguna, 17, was shot dead in Molo, 170km (100 miles) north-west of Nairobi shortly after the end of the school day.
“I don’t know if he was in the midst of the protesters or a stray bullet him. I don’t know but I heard he was shot, fell down and died on the spot,” his mother Jecinta Gathoni said.
“My child was still young, he was in his final year of secondary school. He had his dreams, I also had a lot of hope in him. I have not even gathered the courage to go to the morgue to see his body.”
The protests marked the first anniversary of a previous wave of deadly anti-government demonstrations.
On Wednesday, thousands took to the streets across to voice anger with President William Ruto’s government, and to demand an end to police brutality.
Many of those demonstrating chanted “Ruto must go” and waved branches as a symbol of peaceful opposition to his rule.
The government banned live TV and radio coverage of the protests, although its decree was overturned by the Nairobi High Court. The ban has has since been lifted.
Rights groups have condemned the actions of the police and state.
The Law Society of Kenya said there had been “unnecessary aggression and brute force” by security officers, which it said had led to “senseless loss of life”.
On Wednesday, human rights groups said three police officers had been injured.
Nigerian woman drags her husband before her pastor and church members because he is unromantic and has a filthy habit (video)
A Nigerian woman made headlines on the internet when she accused her husband of being unromantic and of having a filthy habit in front of her pastor and church members.
In a widely shared video, the woman and her spouse sat in front of their pastor while she vented her frustrations and grievances to him in front of the other churchgoers during a service.
She claims that since they married, her husband has never kissed her. She added that he never participates in foreplay when they want to get intimate.
‘’Have you kissed me before? He just says open, and I will open. He will enter. No romance. Nothing!” she said to her husband
She added that he has consistently gotten so filthy that he goes a week without showering. She said that his dirty behaviour reminds her of her ex, who was a very tidy man.
Watch the trending video below
Checkout Black Sherif’s Bold Footwear Choice At Paris Fashion Week That Has Got Everybody Talking
Ghanaian music star Black Sherif has stirred up a wave of online chatter after being photographed wearing a pair of vibrant, floral Wales Bonner flats at the ongoing Paris Fashion Week Menswear Spring/Summer 2025 showcase.
The rapper and singer, known for his genre-bending music and unorthodox fashion sense, appeared at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris as one of the African celebrities invited to the high-profile fashion event running from Wednesday, June 25 to Sunday, June 29, 2025.
What caught the attention of many fans wasn’t just his presence — but his choice of footwear. Black Sherif was seen wearing pastel-colored, flower-printed flats from British-Jamaican designer Wales Bonner’s latest menswear collection. While the shoes are part of the official Spring/Summer 2025 menswear line, their soft tones and dainty detailing led some fans on social media to mistake them for women’s shoes.
The unexpected look quickly went viral, with mixed reactions pouring in. While some praised the “Second Sermon” hitmaker for pushing creative boundaries and embracing global fashion trends, others were less impressed, questioning whether his style choices aligned with his public persona.
“Is this fashion or confusion?” one fan asked under a trending post. Others came to his defense, saying the outfit reflected the evolving nature of menswear and applauding him for representing Ghana on such a prestigious platform.
This isn’t the first time Black Sherif has drawn attention for his fashion choices. From oversized suits to experimental streetwear, the 22-year-old has developed a reputation for stepping outside the box — often challenging traditional definitions of masculinity in both music and fashion.
The Wales Bonner label, known for its fusion of Afro-Atlantic aesthetics and European tailoring, has frequently been worn by global stars including Kendrick Lamar and ASAP Rocky. Black Sherif’s latest appearance signals his growing involvement in international fashion spaces, as well as his willingness to take risks.
Source.
KOD Faces Backlash Over Gay Couple Kissing
Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Presidency, Kofi Okyere Darko, popularly known as KOD has reportedly come under fire after posting—and subsequently deleting—photos of a same-sex couple kissing beneath Ghana’s historic Independence Arch.
The images, originally shared on KOD’s official Facebook page, showed two South African men, identified as Lue and Rue, embracing and kissing beneath the iconic monument. The pair’s bold fashion choices—one in an oversized red and black custom print suit, the other in a coordinated red leather outfit—stood out as much as the setting: the symbolic site of Ghana’s liberation from British colonial rule.
In his now-deleted caption, KOD questioned the appropriateness of the location for the intimate photoshoot, writing: “Who are they? Do your thing, but not beneath our Independence Monument.”
swiftly ignited controversy online. Critics accused KOD of using his platform to stoke homophobic sentiment and publicly shame the couple. Others argued that the post compromised the men’s safety and right to privacy.
Following widespread criticism, KOD removed the post without issuing a public apology or further comment.
The Independence Arch, completed in 1961 and located at Accra’s Independence Square, is a revered national symbol. It commemorates Ghana’s freedom from colonial rule and honours the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for independence.
For many, it represents unity and progress—but reactions to the photo suggest a deep societal divide over the rights and visibility of LGBTQ+ people in Ghana.
If the people who voted for you say E-Levy won’t help, why force it? – Eugene Antwi on NPP’s 2024 defeat
Former Member of Parliament for Subin in the Ashanti Region, Eugene Boakye Antwi, has described the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) loss in the 2024 general elections as more than just a political defeat.
Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Antwi said the results were a wake-up call for the party to reflect on its leadership approach and connection with the electorate.
“The 2024 election was not just a political loss. It was a wake-up call. At some point, as a leader, you need to sit down and listen to your people,” he said.
According to him, the NPP lost touch with the very people who voted them into power due to rigid systems and messaging that failed to resonate with the needs of ordinary Ghanaians.
“Our systems became too rigid, and our messaging disconnected from the people we were elected to serve,” he explained.
Mr. Antwi specifically cited the introduction of the controversial Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), which was widely criticised by the public.
“If the people who voted for you tell you the E-Levy won’t help them, why then do you go ahead and implement it?” he questioned.
He also expressed concern over policy inconsistencies, pointing out that while ordinary Ghanaians were burdened with new taxes, others were living in luxury and avoiding basic obligations.
“Meanwhile, people have built big houses and are renting them out without paying property rates. There were a lot of things that just weren’t right. So how did we expect the masses to vote for us again?” he asked. “They definitely will vote against us, and that’s why we lost.”
Looking ahead, Eugene Boakye Antwi stressed the need for unity and reform within the party to stand a chance in the 2028 general elections.
“We need stability in the party. We must listen, adjust, and work to win back the trust of Ghanaians,” he added.
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.
Executive overreach threatens Ghana’s democracy – Seth Acheampong
Former Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Acheampong, has warned that the unfolding events surrounding the suspension and impeachment of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo expose a dangerous shift in Ghana’s democratic structure, where the Executive is wielding excessive power at the expense of the Judiciary.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, June 26, Acheampong described the situation as an imbalance that risks weakening the country’s system of checks and balances.
“In a democratic state where we have the three arms of government — the Executive, the Judiciary, and the Legislature — we have given too much strength and arm to the head of the Executive, to disadvantage the Judiciary. When I see that, I call it democracy capture,” he stated.
Acheampong stressed that the current process goes beyond one individual and points to a systemic concern. He cautioned that allowing the Executive to dominate other arms of government would compromise democratic accountability and potentially set dangerous precedents.
His comments come as Chief Justice Torkornoo faces an ongoing impeachment process, which she has criticised as lacking transparency and fairness. The suspended Chief Justice claims the proceedings held at a high-security location are designed to intimidate and obstruct her defence.
Torkornoo was suspended on April 22, 2025, by President John Dramani Mahama after a prima facie case was established in consultation with the Council of State. A five-member committee was formed under Article 146(6) to investigate several petitions of alleged misconduct against her.
Though the proceedings are being held in camera as allowed by law, the Chief Justice has attempted to challenge the process in court on four occasions. All applications, including one personally filed by her, were dismissed by the Supreme Court.
In pursuit of this, Gertrude Torkornoo says her legal team has filed a judicial review at the High Court seeking to quash the ongoing proceedings for her removal again.
According to Justice Torkonoo, the process, led by the Justice Pwamang Committee, has been marred by serious procedural violations.
Businessman, Simon Guobadia says he regrets marriage to Porsha Williams, claims he was targeted for ‘financial reasons’ (video)
Simon Guobadia, the ex-husband of Real Housewives of Atlanta star Porsha Williams, has broken his silence following their divorce.
The Nigerian businessman didn’t hold back on his thoughts and feelings about the marriage, admitting that he “absolutely regrets” the marriage to the American reality star.
According to Mr.Simon, he “was targeted for financial reasons.”
In the exclusive chat with Page Six, he recalled repeatedly asking, “Why did you file for a divorce?” only to be met with silence.
“I kept asking, ‘Why did you file for a divorce?’ And she wouldn’t say anything,” claiming he could not get in touch with her family.
“This felt like a coup. … I was totally blindsided,” he laments, which Williams recently predicted he would feel.
After his attempts to reach Williams’s loved ones failed, Guobadia said he fired off a scathing text reading: “This was a $5 million rehab project that I took on.”
Their marriage lasted for just 14 months as Williams filed for divorce in February 2024, citing troubling discoveries about his finances and U.S. immigration status.
Guobadia insisted they never had such talks prior to her filing for divorce, “She never shared her concerns or issues with me before filing for divorce. If you’re married … you discuss issues and say, ‘Hey, if this does not change or something does not happen, this is what might come of it.” he explained
He also reflected on their quick engagement: “Getting engaged in 30 days…who does that? I was out of my goddamn mind.”
Posha told People earlier this week she had hired an immigration attorney in January 2024 after uncovering “complex” issues with Guobadia’s legal status, noting that she felt the relationship was “headed down a dark road.”
She said the two had a confrontation on Valentine’s Day and that she filed for divorce just over a week later.
Guobadia — who was deported to Nigeria earlier this month because of immigration violations, including bank and credit card fraud — tells us, noting they “never had those discussions.”
He adds, “I think I was targeted. I was targeted from day one for financial reasons. When I filed for divorce from my previous ex-wife [‘RHOA’ cast member Falynn Guobadia, Williams was in my DM praying for me. I think I was in a vulnerable position at that time, and I entertained it. So it just kind of snowballed from there.
“Getting engaged in 30 days … who does that? I was out of my goddamn mind to have done that. Of course, I’m paying dearly for it.”
Following a grueling four months in ICE custody and deportation to Nigeria, a judge upheld their prenup, awarding Williams $40,000 monthly alimony and up to 36 months of mortgage-free residence. Guobadia vows to appeal “with 1,000%” certainty, even taking it “all the way to the Supreme Court.”
On Williams’s daughter PJ, he stated plainly, “I don’t have a relationship with her daughter,” dismissing his ex-wife’s notion that the pair were close. He also criticizes Williams’s gesture of paying child support during his ICE stay, noting it “was not done in good faith” and served only narrative purposes.
Watch the video below..
Watch highlights from Day 2 of King Mswati III’s visit to Asanteman
The much-anticipated encounter between two of Africa’s most revered kings, the ruler of Eswatini, King Mswati III, and the king of Asanteman, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, happened on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
Before meeting the Asantehene, King Mswati III addressed Ghana’s National House of Chiefs, praised the chiefs for their contribution to Ghana’s development, and called for greater collaboration with his kingdom.
We won’t accept another delay after July 10 – GRNMA
The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) says another delay in implementing their conditions of service will not be tolerated.
This follows the Health Committee’s decision to postpone a long-anticipated meeting from today Thursday June 26 to July 10, citing the absence of the Health and Finance Ministers, who are reportedly outside the country.
The GRNMA had expected the original meeting to mark a turning point in resolving outstanding issues concerning their revised conditions of service.
Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News, the Vice President of GRNMA, Samuel Alagkora Akologo expressed concern over the short notice and questioned why the postponement wasn’t communicated earlier, given the time available to do so.
He said the Association had been acting in good faith by pausing its strike earlier this month on the back of commitments made by the Health Committee. He stressed that their patience should not be mistaken for complacency.
“What we are saying is that we had two weeks to do this work. Why didn’t this communication come much earlier?” he asked. “Is it the possibility that on the 10th this date can be postponed? That possibility is there and that is why we are giving early signal that we will not be happy with that. The fact that we have accepted to wait until 10th should be considered as even reasonable on our part.”
Mr Akologo also cautioned that the Association expects the July 10 meeting to produce tangible results—not more delays or vague assurances.
“I don’t envisage that they will disappoint us but in the unlikely event that they disappoint us, the National Council will advise on what to do,” he said.
“We believe in this process and we are hoping that on 10th July we will not get there and they will tell us we are still doing this. We are going there to get what they have for us with clear timelines, including those they accepted that it should be implemented next year.”
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Health Committee, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, earlier reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to nurses and midwives, explaining that the postponement was due to unavoidable circumstances.
“The Minister for Health and the Minister for Finance are unavoidably absent from the jurisdiction. The Committee, therefore, thought it prudent to inform the nurses’ association of the above,” Dr. Nawaane told journalists.
“I want to use this opportunity to reassure the nurses that the Health Committee and Parliament will continue to advocate for them.”
Read also
Respect agreed roadmap or face the consequences – GRNMA warns Health Committee
‘Stop washing our dirty linen in public’
Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin
The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has issued a strong call to members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to uphold party discipline and use internal structures to address concerns, rather than airing grievances on social media.
Speaking at the official launch of the Patriotic Institute on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the party headquarters in Accra, the Effutu MP urged especially the youth within the party to be responsible, respectful, and strategic in their engagement.
“To the youth of our great NPP tradition, this is your time. Question ideas. Own your place in our history. Don’t insult your leaders on social media. Use the back channels within the party to express dissent,” he said.
He cautioned that public attacks on party leadership and internal wrangling played out online only serve to weaken the party’s cohesion and damage its public image.
“Don’t go out washing our dirty linen in public,” he stressed, urging members to embrace unity and forward-thinking strategies as the party rebuilds after the 2024 electoral setback.
The Patriotic Institute, launched as the NPP’s official leadership and ideological training centre, is designed to equip members with policy knowledge, a deeper understanding of party tradition, and strategic communication skills.
AS/KA
Ever heard of Nkofie, the legendary Kwahu cave believed to grant wishes? Join GhanaWeb’s People & Places as we take you on an exclusive tour of this mystical site:
Ghana–China ties deepen as Chief of Staff hosts high-level Chinese investor delegation
Ghana’s economic diplomacy took centre stage this week as the Office of the Chief of Staff officially hosted a high-powered Chinese investor delegation, reinforcing growing ties between Accra and Beijing.
The delegation’s visit, a highlight of the ongoing Ghana–China Business Summit 2025, comes amid renewed calls for deeper industrial collaboration between the two nations.
The summit is jointly organised by the Government of Ghana and the Sino-Africa Group.
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, urged Chinese investors to harness Ghana’s strategic geographic location, stable political environment, and the transformative 24-Hour Economy Agenda.
“We invite you to Make Ghana Your Industrial Home,” Mr Debrah said. “Our bold 24-Hour Economy policy is designed to unlock value across sectors, create jobs, and position Ghana as a gateway to the African continent.”
The visiting delegation, led by Chen Xiaowei, included representatives from major Chinese state-owned enterprises and private conglomerates with global footprints.
Describing Ghana as “the China of Africa in the making,” Mr Chen called for stronger institutional frameworks to bolster investor confidence and facilitate long-term partnerships.
“We see in Ghana the same energy, ambition, and potential that marked China’s own rise. With the right support mechanisms, Ghana can become Africa’s next industrial powerhouse,” he said.
The landmark engagement signals a fresh chapter in Ghana–China relations, rooted not only in investment but in a shared commitment to industrialisation, infrastructure development, and mutual growth.
As both countries continue to explore areas of collaboration, the summit is expected to deliver significant investment commitments, especially in manufacturing, energy, and logistics.
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.
Official: Asante Kotoko sign defender Zackaria Fuseini on three-year deal
Asante Kotoko have officially announced the signing of experienced central defender Zackaria Fuseini on a three-year contract, adding steel and leadership to their backline ahead of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.
The 27-year-old joins the Porcupine Warriors from Berekum Chelsea, where he emerged as one of the league’s most consistent defenders, making 133 appearances since debuting as a teenager. A former Black Meteors defender, Fuseini also spent time abroad with San Fernando CD in Spain, gaining vital international exposure.
Known for his composure, game-reading ability, and leadership qualities, Fuseini captained Berekum Chelsea and was widely regarded as the heart of their defense. His arrival is expected to add much-needed experience and calm to Kotoko’s backline as the club undergoes a significant rebuild.
Speaking to Kotoko Media, the centre-back expressed his excitement and ambition:
“I’m honoured to be joining Asante Kotoko. I believe this is the platform I’ve always hoped for to catapult my career to the next level. My focus is to win laurels with the club and to work hard for a place in the Black Stars, because I know I’m good enough.”
He added:
“Some say this move is a few years late, but I don’t believe that. I’m arriving mature and experienced, and I’m ready to handle the pressure that comes with playing for such a big club.”
Fuseini becomes the latest addition to Kotoko’s growing list of new signings as they aim to re-establish dominance both domestically and in continental competitions.
Support comedy so we can live off our craft – Foster Romanus appeals
Foster Romanus is a stand-up comedian
Celebrated Ghanaian comedian Foster Romanus has issued a passionate call for greater support for the country’s comedy industry.
According to him, comedians in Ghana should be able to earn a living solely from their talent without having to rely on alternative sources of income.
Speaking in an interview with ShoBiz TV on June 26, 2025, Romanus emphasized that talented comedians should not hide their gifts but rather focus on pursuing their passion.
However, he cautioned that building a thriving stand‑up career in Ghana depends heavily on proper compensation, which he believes is currently lacking.
“One can live off stand‑up gigs only if they get paid well,” Romanus stated.
He urged both aspiring and established comedians to showcase their talents, saying,
“I always tell people not to hide their talent. The only thing that can make you successful is when you’re plying your passion.”
Unfortunately, Romanus noted that many comedians continue to face financial challenges.
“Comedy … should be able to take care of you … but only if Ghanaians pay well,” he lamented.
He attributed the problem to a lack of adequate support from both corporations and the general public.
Romanus has previously called for increased investment in infrastructure and programmes to help grow and sustain Ghana’s comedy industry.
Watch the video below:
ID/MA
188 Ghanaians on President Trump’s deportation list – Okudzeto Ablakwa
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is the Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that Ghana has received formal notification regarding 188 citizens listed for deportation under U.S. immigration enforcement.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, June 26, 2025, he assured the public that Ghana is fully cooperating with U.S. authorities to ensure an orderly and humane process.
“We have so far been formally notified of 188 Ghanaians on President Trump’s deportation list. Our embassies in New York and Washington have been cooperating with our counterparts in the United States, and so far, travel certificates are promptly issued,” he stated.
Okudzeto Ablakwa said Ghana’s embassies in Washington and New York have been working closely with U.S. officials to facilitate the process.
“We will be at the airport to welcome our compatriots and properly integrate them. I can confirm to you that, working with our counterparts at the Ministry of the Interior and the Immigration Service, all necessary arrangements are in place,” he added.
He explained that deportees are received discreetly at the airport to protect their rights and dignity.
“We don’t invite the media because many are returning under distressing circumstances, often without their belongings or savings. It’s our responsibility to ensure they are properly reintegrated,” he noted.
The minister’s comments follow a Washington Post report suggesting that the U.S. government may be preparing a second wave of travel bans, similar to those introduced during President Trump’s first term. While 19 countries were affected then, the new list reportedly includes 36 nations.
Ablakwa stressed that Ghana is proactively engaging U.S. authorities to protect its citizens and avoid potential visa sanctions.
“We’ve had very productive meetings this week with officials from the State Department and the White House, and we are optimistic. Ghana has long-standing, warm, and strategic ties with the United States, ties we believe will be taken into account.”
“We are not taking this lightly. The engagements are ongoing, and we are confident that Ghana will not be treated like countries facing serious national security red flags. Our cooperation has been consistent, and we remain a responsible partner to the United States,” he assured.
JKB/MA
Ghana secures EV manufacturing interest from Chinese auto giant GAC
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa during the tour
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says Ghana’s intensified economic diplomacy drive is beginning to yield significant results, particularly in the area of industrial partnerships.
Following a high-level visit to China, Okudzeto Ablakwa announced that Chinese Electric Vehicle (EV) giant, GAC Group, has expressed strong interest in establishing an EV manufacturing plant in Ghana.
“GAC, a leading electric vehicle manufacturer, has agreed to give favorable consideration to Ghana for the establishment of an EV manufacturing plant,” Okudzeto Ablakwa revealed.
The Foreign Affairs Minister said, China, which hosts seven of the world’s top ten EV brands, is widely acknowledged to be at least a decade ahead of global competitors in EV technology.
“Ghana is poised to forge strategic partnerships that leverage our lithium discovery and economic recovery efforts for transformation and massive job creation,” the minister added.
He expressed gratitude to the board and management of GAC for their warm hospitality during a visit to the company’s Panyu Headquarters, describing the engagement as a major step forward in Ghana’s industrialisation drive.
Okudzeto Ablakwa affirmed that Ghana’s renewed focus on economic diplomacy aims to ensure that the country’s international engagements directly benefit its people through investment, innovation, and employment opportunities.
Meanwhile, watch how social engineering hacks your mind and your bank account below:
Watch as Onana plays as a striker in hometown street game
Onana in black, playing in a street game in Cameroon
Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana has gone viral for swapping his usual spot between the sticks for a striker’s role in a street football match in Cameroon.
In a widely circulated video online, the 29-year-old was seen playing casually with locals, leading the line, making runs, and even trying to score, far from the intense spotlight of Old Trafford.
Onana, currently on holiday, has had a turbulent year in Manchester. After two testing seasons, reports suggest that the club is exploring the idea of replacing him ahead of the new campaign.
Ligue 1 side AS Monaco is reportedly interested and preparing an official approach for the Cameroonian shot-stopper, who joined United in 2023.
But away from the noise and transfer rumours, Onana seems to be enjoying some grassroots joy.
His hometown appearance not only brought smiles to fans but also showcased a different side of him, a player still very much in love with the game.
Before hitting the pitch, Onana had visited Burkina Faso, where he met with President Ibrahim Traoré and supported a charity initiative led by his former teammate Bertrand Traoré.
He’s using his offseason for both community engagement and some playful football moments.
Watch the video below:
FKA/EB
Meanwhile, watch the latest edition of Sports Check with former Hearts of Oak midfielder Frederick Ansah Botchway
Ally of Cameroon president, 92, quits ‘broken’ government to challenge him
Issa Bakary says federalism is on the table, in an appeal to the country’s English-speaking regions
Issa Tchiroma Bakary – a prominent minister and long-time ally of President Paul Biya – has quit Cameroon’s government, in the hope of ending 92-year-old Biya’s four-decade grip on power in upcoming elections.
Just four months before the central African nation goes to the polls, Tchiroma said the Biya administration he belonged to had “broken” public trust and he was switching to a rival party.
“A country cannot exist in the service of one man,” he said on Wednesday.
While he was communications minister, Tchiroma notably came under fire for denying – then backtracking on his denial – that Cameroonian soldiers had killed women and children in a viral video verified by BBC Africa Eye.
His other roles during almost two decades in government include being a spokesman for the Biya government, and, until his resignation on Tuesday, he was employment minister.
Paul Biya – the world’s oldest head of state – has yet to confirm if he will attempt an eighth term as president. Last year, the country banned reports on the president’s health following rumours he had died.
As this election approaches, high unemployment and soaring living costs are of concern to many Cameroonians, as are corruption and security. A separatist insurgency in the English-speaking provinces as well as jihadists operating in the northernmost region have forced many thousands of Cameroonians from their homes in the past decade.
Cracks in Tchiroma’s relationship with President Biya were blown open earlier this month, when he told crowds in his home city of Garoua that Biya’s time in power had not benefitted them in any way.
Tchiroma, widely reported to be 75, continued this criticism in a 24-page manifesto released a day after his resignation – promising to dismantle “the old system” so that Cameroon could move beyond “abuse, contempt, and the confiscation of power”.
One of his proposed solutions is federalism – he is offering to hold a referendum on devolving more power to Cameroon’s 10 provinces. This has long been mooted by many as a solution to the country’s so-called Anglophone crisis.
Specifically addressing English-speaking Cameroonians, who have long complained of marginalisation and discrimination in Francophone-dominated public institutions, he said “you do not need people to speak for you – you need to be listened to” and that “centralisation has failed”.
Tchiroma also used his manifesto to say Cameroon “has been ruled for decades by the same vision, the same system. This model, long presented as a safeguard of stability, has gradually stifled progress, paralysed our institutions, and broken the bond of trust between the state and its citizens”.
As the October presidential election approaches, rights groups have condemned the government’s crackdown on dissent.
Shortly after Tchiroma announced his plans to run for the presidency, the government reportedly announced a ban on all political activities by his Cameroon National Salvation Front (CNSF) party in a sub-district of the Far North region – a part of the country where he is said to be an influential power-broker.
Weeks earlier, fellow presidential hopeful Maurice Kamto had his movements curtailed during a two-day police stakeout in Douala, after promising supporters at a rally in Paris that he would protect Biya and his family if he wins in October.
Parliamentary elections that were also supposed to take place earlier this year have been delayed until 2026.
Reaction to Tchiroma’s presidential bid has been mixed – some think he is canny.
“By positioning himself as the elder statesman who ‘saw the fire coming’, Tchiroma is hedging that his break with Biya will be seen as bold, not opportunistic,” Cameroonian analyst and broadcaster Jules Domshe told the BBC.
“From economic fallout to youth unemployment, insecurity, and growing unrest in the North-West, South-West, and Far North [regions], Cameroon is ripe for change.”
Opposition voices are divided – some want Tchiroma to support Kamto, who was the runner-up in 2018 with 14% of votes. But others say he is tainted by his long association with Biya.
“He cannot embody change… He was part of the system for too long. The youth do not trust him,” says Abdoulaye Harissou, a legal notary and prominent critic once detained by the government.
Another member of the opposition – Jean Michel Nintcheu of the APC coalition – simply said: “We don’t see Tchiroma as a potential winner.”