Nana Romeo (R) has advised Hajia4reall (L) on image rehab
Ghanaian media personality Nana Romeo has stated that Hajia4Reall should have focused on charitable acts, such as visiting an orphanage, to help rebuild her image rather than releasing a comeback music track.
According to him, Hajia4Reall, who has recently returned to the spotlight, should have prioritised prayer and personal reflection instead of rushing to drop a music video.
According to him, “Spiritually in my belief, you can agree or disagree with me, because there are differences in everyone’s beliefs.
“It’s not even up to one or two months, so why did she rush to make a music video? What point is she trying to prove?”
Although Nana Romeo emphasised that it’s not his place to tell someone how to spend their money, he suggested that visiting an orphanage before releasing the video could have helped Hajia4reall regain the respect and love of her fans.
“On a normal circumstance, I am not supposed to tell someone what he or she uses their money for. But if she had visited an orphanage, it would have changed the perception people have about her,” he said.
In his final comments, Nana Romeo wished Hajia4reall the best and expressed hope that she would consider the advice and feedback she is receiving.
“We wish her all the best and we hope she can go out well without any stigma, but if she listens to what we say or the people’s advice, it will help her,” he concluded.
Kennedy Agyapong is a former Assin Central lawmaker and NPP presidential hopeful
The 2024 presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party, Kennedy Agyapong has been trending over the weekend following a viral video where he had met what looked like his supporters and pitching himself for flagbearer of the party in the 2028 elections.
In the video, Kennedy insinuated that the church voted against the 2024 flagbearer of the party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, perhaps on religious grounds and asked the supporters to elect him.
“In this church we are in, they spoke. I am speaking in parables. The church spoke but we did not listen and we have seen what has happened.”
“If they want power, Ghanaians say it is only Kennedy Agyapong they will vote for.”
“Do you want to remain home for another 4 years or 8 years? Are you ready for that? Let us listen to what the people are saying. Let us listen to what Ghanaians are saying”, he said on the viral video.
But Kennedy Agyapong’s comments seem to have backfired on him, hence attracting condemnation with social media users labeling his character to reek of hypocrisy.
Some critics have accused him of working against Bawumia and the New Patriotic Party in the 2024 elections.
In the wake of the current happenings within the NPP, several videos of Kennedy Agyapong making disparaging statements about the party which resulted in their defeat in the 2024 elections have popped up.
Serving as a flashback, Mr Agyapong was heard on the video vigorously campaigning against his own party.
He said; “The situation we are in now, Ghanaians don’t need change; change needs Ghanaians. Yes, Ghanaians don’t need change, change needs us.”
Further calling for a change of government, in an interview with KSM, Kennedy Agyapong added; “It means that we’ve gone past change. The situation is worse that the change itself is now saying that please come and let me change you.”
Ghanaian musician J. Derobie has called on investors and stakeholders in the music industry to direct their support toward initiatives that empower upcoming artistes, just as Mr. Eazi’s Empawa initiative once did for him and many others.
In an interview on YFM, the Poverty hitmaker talked about his time with Empawa and said it was a life-changing chance that helped him grow in his music career.
He emphasised that such platforms are essential for discovering and nurturing hidden talent in Ghana’s music scene.
“It (Empawa) was a very great initiative and I think we need people to do more of that in the industry to help emerging artistes because there are a lot of talents in Ghana,” he said.
J. Derobie explained that while talent is important, financial support plays a crucial role in the success of many young artistes.
He believes that more of such programmes should be created, and they should be backed by funding in the form of grants to make an impact.
“We really need such programmes to happen and not just that but with grants, like grants for artistes and all that,” he stated.
The singer further stressed that some of Ghana’s most promising talents are unable to make progress in their careers due to lack of funding.
According to him, initiatives that come with financial aid can make a difference in turning potential into success.
“There are some artistes, they are good, they have the potential but sometimes, this our work, you need money. If there are some grants available for artistes and all that, it would be very nice for us,” he said.
Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (left) shakes hands with Bryan Acheampong
It was all joy when former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia met his possible contender for the NPP flagbearership position, the Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Bryan Acheampong, at the funeral rites of the late Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II.
Dr Bawumia, who was the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate for the 2024 election, has indicated his intention to lead the party once again in the 2028 election.
Bryan Acheampong, a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, also recently set up a committee to explore the feasibility of his presidential ambition.
When the two men met at the late Mamponghene’s funeral on Sunday, June 8, 2025, the former vice president appeared to express his view about the Abetifi MP’s ambitions.
Bryan Acheampong is seen saying to the former vice president, “You are here,” after which the two men shook hands and burst into laughter.
Dr Bawumia then retorted, “You want to worry me,” as the two men were seen laughing heartily.
Smile Agbemenu is the Chief Revenue Officer of Customs Policy and Programmes at the GRA
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced plans to engage all marketing companies regarding the recently amended Energy Sector Levies Act (ESLA) 2025 to increase the levy by GH¢1.
This follows the postponement of the GH¢1 implementation of the controversial levy intended to bolster energy production and stable distribution of power to the public.
The levy which was scheduled to take effect on Monday, June 9, 2025, faced fierce resistance from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), who raised concerns over its timing and potential impact on fuel prices and by extension its consumers.
Speaking on JoyNews on Monday, June 9, 2025, and monitored by GhanaWeb Business, the Chief Revenue Officer of Customs Policy and Programmes at the GRA, Smile Agbemenu said the authority’s planned engagement with the AOMCs is to ensure a smooth rollout of the levy and to avoid disruptions to business activities.
“It is just for this particular increase that we are talking about. So, we are expecting to continue an engagement to the acquisition of all marketing companies, reaching out to their members within the week, throughout the implementation and execution of business. This is a targeted increase determined by the government, and we are executing it as mandated by law. We’ve started reaching out to all marketing companies and will continue engaging them throughout the implementation process,” he said.
He noted that the GRA already has systems in place for the collection and accounting of such levies, stressing that this new measure is simply an extension of those structures.
“We have the building blocks for the collecting and the accounting for all government programmes. So, this is no different from what we are already doing. We are only adding an additional amount as government has determined,” he said.
He added that companies have been categorised based on their operational models. Those under a cash-and-carry system will be required to make upfront payments before lifting their products. Others that provide acceptable security under the Customs Act will be granted a credit period.
“For companies providing the necessary security, we’ve outlined a payment schedule of 21 calendar days plus four working days,” he explained.
SP/VPO
#TrendingGH: Drivers react to government’s new GH¢1 energy levy on petroleum products
The champions have been crowned. Bibiani is bouncing. Fans are draped in yellow, horns are blaring, and a quiet mining town has become the centre of Ghanaian football.
Bibiani Gold Stars have done it. First-ever league champions. A 4–0 win over a fallen Accra Lions on Sunday, June 8, 2025, sealed it. History, not just made, but carved into the very soul of the Western Region.
But beyond the fireworks and the gold confetti, this was a season of layers, of glory, collapse, redemption, and heartbreak.
The 2024/25 Ghana Premier League was more than just a competition. It was a drama, and at times, a national mirror.
The joy in Bibiani
There was no mistaking it; this was a championship won on merit. No calculators needed. No goal difference debates. Gold Stars stormed to the finish line like a club possessed.
From Abdul Farouk Amoaful’s calm finish to Frank Amankwah’s thunderbolt, everything clicked on the final day. They weren’t just playing football, they were delivering a statement.
The streets of Bibiani erupted. Some fans cried, others danced. Some simply stood still, in awe of what they’d witnessed. A club that once played in shadows had stepped into the sun.
The league trophy, once the preserve of the “big boys”, was heading to the mines. And they weren’t borrowing it. They earned it.
Nations FC: From dream to disaster
Just days ago, Nations FC stood on the brink of immortality. Top of the table with two games to go. All they had to do was keep calm.
But pressure does strange things. Against Basake Holy Stars, they cracked. A second penalty awarded to their opponents. Protest. Fury. And then chaos.
The entire team walked off the pitch under the orders of their owner, Dr. Kwame Kyei. What followed was silence and confusion.
Now, pending a Disciplinary Committee decision, they could lose it all. If found guilty, three points will vanish. So too will their place in the top four.
From a near coronation to the courtroom, Nations FC’s fate now hangs not on goals but on legal documents.
A Western rise that refuses to stop
Gold Stars’ victory wasn’t a fluke, it was a continuation.
In 2022/23, it was Medeama who rose, ending a five-year title drought by finally converting their potential into silver. The pride of Tarkwa made it stick.
In 2023/24, Samartex shocked everyone. A club with no top-flight history. No weighty expectations. But they played without fear and made history.
And now, 2024/25 belongs to Gold Stars. That’s three straight seasons. Three different champions. All from the Western Region.
It is no longer a coincidence. It is a movement. A shift in power. Where once the league ran through Kumasi and Accra, now it marches west.
In stadiums once considered outposts, ambition has grown. Structure has been built. Crowds have returned, and most importantly, trophies are being lifted.
Old giants, familiar pains
While the West flourished, the traditional giants fumbled. Hearts of Oak, who once basked in glory after ending an 11-year title drought in 2020/21, were expected to rebuild and contend this year.
There was a buzz. A belief. But belief turned quickly into doubt.
Aboubakar Ouattara promised steel and structure, but delivered inconsistency and confusion. His side floated between glimpses of magic and spells of mediocrity. Now, he’s clinging to his job by a thread.
Their final-day win over Samartex might gift them a top-four spot, depending on Nations FC’s verdict, but there will be no joy, only relief.
Across the country in Kumasi, Asante Kotoko faced their heartbreak. They last won the league in 2021/22, when Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum broke a seven-year drought and restored their pride.
But in a cruel twist of fate, Ogum was brought back this season, and sacked just weeks before the end, with a potential FA Cup still in reach. His return was meant to complete a circle. Instead, it ended in exile.
Kotoko might still finish third. They’re in the FA Cup final. But the wounds of another missed league title will sting deep.
The Heart of Lions beats louder
If you’re looking for a story of grit and renewal, Heart of Lions is it.
This time last year, they were clinging to survival. Avoiding relegation on the final day. Fans cried tears of relief.
Fast forward twelve months, and they were in the title race.
No sugar daddies. No megastars. Just a group of believers, and while they may not have lifted the trophy, their climb is a blueprint, proof that stability and identity still matter.
Down below: Tragedy, collapse, and farewells
Football, at its worst, can be cruel, and this season, the bottom of the table reminded us of that.
Accra Lions, runners-up just last season, are relegated. A fall so sharp, it’s hard to comprehend. Confidence drained, leadership questioned, and form evaporated.
Legon Cities, who escaped the drop in 2024 thanks to final-day miracles, never recovered this time. Their relegation was confirmed three weeks ago.
Then came Nsoatreman, whose story ended not with football, but with tragedy. After an Asante Kotoko fan died following a violent incident at their stadium, the club withdrew. A heartbreaking decision.
New blood, new belief
But not all survival stories were sad. All three promoted sides, Vision FC, Basake Holy Stars, and Young Apostles, survived.
They didn’t just hang on. They fought. Vision stunned Kotoko. Holy Stars took points off top sides. Apostles grew stronger every week.
They will return next year, smarter, tougher, and more ambitious.
The bigger picture: A league on the edge of a revolution
The 2024/25 Ghana Premier League gave us more than goals and points, it gave us drama, dreams, heartbreak, and hope. And beneath it all, something deeper is brewing.
This league is changing. The power is shifting, and nothing captures that more vividly than this astonishing fact: five different champions in five consecutive seasons.
In 2020/21, Hearts of Oak finally broke free. After eleven long years of waiting, they climbed back to the summit of Ghanaian football. It wasn’t just a title, it was a resurrection.
That season, under the guidance of Samuel Boadu, they found rhythm, resolve, and a unity that reminded fans of the club’s golden years. It felt like the Phobians were truly back.
A year later, in 2021/22, it was Asante Kotoko’s turn to rise. Led by Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum, the Porcupine Warriors ended a seven-year title drought of their own.
The football was confident, the defence was ironclad, and the swagger was unmistakable. It was a campaign that restored pride in Kumasi and reignited one of African football’s grandest institutions.
Then came Medeama SC in 2022/23. A team from Tarkwa, long viewed as contenders who always fell short, finally found their moment.
It was their first league crown since 2018. With their blend of experienced heads and fearless youth, they silenced doubters and planted the Western Region’s flag firmly atop the summit.
In 2023/24, the fairytale arrived. FC Samartex 1996, a club with no top-flight pedigree and zero pressure, delivered one of the most romantic stories in Ghanaian football history.
Against all odds, they finished the season as champions. With heart, hunger, and togetherness, they proved that dreams still matter in this game.
And now, in 2024/25, Gold Stars FC have completed the five-year transformation. Their first-ever title didn’t just make history for Bibiani, it capped a remarkable regional revolution.
Their dominance this season wasn’t just statistical; it was emotional. They played like a club on a mission, and now they sit atop the Ghanaian game.
The Ghana Premier League is no longer predictable, and that might just be its greatest strength.
From Bibiani to Tarkwa, from Accra to Kumasi, the message is clear: every club has a chance. Every match matters, and every season is a blank page.
2024/25 is over. But its echoes will last long. Now, we wait for next season’s script.
Who will rise next? Who will fall, and will Bibiani’s gold shine even brighter, or will someone new steal the crown?
Russia is working to enhance its economic and military ties in Africa
Russia is working to enhance its economic and military ties in Africa, Moscow has outlined.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declared on Monday that Russia’s presence in Africa is “growing”. The move is part of an ongoing bid by Moscow to step into a geopolitical vacuum in West Africa as Western powers retreat amid a series of military coups in the region.
“We really intend to comprehensively develop our interaction with African countries, focusing primarily on economic and investment interaction,” Peskov told reporters.
“This also corresponds to and extends to such sensitive areas as defence and security,” he added.
Russia’s growing security role in parts of Africa, including in countries such as Mali, Central African Republic and Equatorial Guinea, is viewed with concern by the West, and has come at the expense of former colonial power France, whose forces have departed or been expelled from several West African countries over recent years, and the United States.
The Kremlin’s ambition appears undimmed by recent reports that Russian paramilitary group Wagner is leaving Mali after helping the military government fight armed groups.
The Africa Corps, a Kremlin-controlled paramilitary force, said it will remain in the West African country in Wagner’s place.
Mali, ruled by a military government that seized power in coups in 2020 and 2021, has never officially admitted Wagner’s presence, insisting only that it was working with Russian instructors.
During the same period, however, the government broke ties with France and pivoted towards Russia for political and military support.
The Africa Corps was created with support from the Russian Ministry of Defence after Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin and commander Dmitry Utkin led a failed mutiny against the Russian army leadership in June 2023 and were killed two months later in a plane crash.
According to several Telegram chats used by Russian mercenaries seen by the Reuters news agency, about 70 to 80 percent of the Africa Corps is made up of former Wagner members.
Replacing Wagner with Africa Corps troops would likely shift Russia’s focus in Mali from fighting alongside the Malian army to training, said Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel programme at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.
“Africa Corps has a lighter footprint and focuses more on training, providing equipment and doing protection services. They fight less than the ‘Rambo-type’ Wagner mercenaries,” Laessing told The Associated Press news agency.
The Ministry of Health is currently in a closed-door meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) and other key stakeholders in an effort to resolve the ongoing strike.
The outcome of this discussion is expected to determine whether the industrial action will be called off or continue in the coming days.
Speaking to Citi News on Monday, June 9, the Public Relations Officer for the Ministry, Tony Goodman, expressed optimism, stating that the ministry is hopeful the nurses will accept the terms under discussion and agree to end the strike.
“This meeting is on what the minister has been advocating for, the past few days, that is, for us to come back to the table for discussion. Thankfully, the leaders of the association agreed to the plea and are here.
“We hope that by the time we finish this meeting, there will be a fruitful resolution for them to call off the strike. Their coming here is a positive signal because when we called them, they may have decided not to come, but they are here, which means they saw reason in what the minister had proposed.”
Meanwhile, the ongoing strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) is taking a devastating toll on healthcare delivery across the country, with public hospitals scaling down operations and patients left without care.
The ongoing strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) is taking a devastating toll on healthcare delivery across the country, with public hospitals scaling down operations and patients left without care.
At the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, the usually bustling Outpatients Department (OPD) was virtually empty on Monday, with no nurses or midwives in sight. The situation was similar at the Adabraka Polyclinic, where patients were either turned away or left unattended as the facility appeared largely deserted.
But conditions in the Eastern Region are even more alarming. At the Eastern Regional Hospital in Koforidua, families have begun forcibly discharging their loved ones due to the complete absence of nursing care. Several relatives told reporters they had no choice but to take their sick family members home, fearing the lack of medical support could worsen their conditions.
Also at the Mental Health Unit of the same facility, families say they received calls from staff on Sunday, June 8, urging them to come and collect their relatives. The unit, which typically requires around-the-clock monitoring, is now reportedly being manned by just one overwhelmed psychologist.
“My son is here at the Mental Health Unit. I was called yesterday to come for him because of the ongoing strike. I would have to resort to a prayer camp now for his healing. We are really frustrated,” one patient’s relative told Channel One News.
Pregnant women scheduled for antenatal care (ANC) have also been turned away from public health facilities.
“I was given a date to come for a check-up. When I got here today, the place was empty. The government should heed their concerns, we are struggling,” a pregnant woman lamented.
Agyemang John, a mental health nurse and Chairperson for the GRNMA in the New Juaben South Municipality, revealed the dire staffing situation, saying “At the mental health unit, we are about 16 staff members—only one psychiatrist and a physician assistant. The psychiatrist is currently on leave, and the rest of us are the nurses, who are now on strike.”
In the North East Region, Healthcare access in the Chereponi district has come to a standstill, as the district hospital closed its doors on Monday, June 9, following the complete withdrawal of nurses. The shutdown has left residents without any medical alternatives, prompting urgent appeals to the government to intervene and restore services.
Reports say operations are slow but ongoing at Bimbilla government hospital. Some nurses who are not GRNMA members remain at post, but wards such as the children’s unit are nearly empty. Nurses attributed the low patient numbers there to seasonal trends rather than the strike.
The GRNMA commenced its nationwide industrial action to press home the demand for the implementation of its 2024 Collective Agreement. Key demands include payment of unpaid allowances, fuel and medical allowances, rural incentive allowances, renewal of practising licenses, and the introduction of a 13th-month salary.
As the strike drags on, the absence of vital healthcare personnel continues to endanger lives, leaving many Ghanaians in a state of fear, frustration, and helplessness.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health is currently in a closed-door meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) and other key stakeholders in an effort to resolve the ongoing strike.
We’re open to talks, not renegotiation – GRNMA to Health Minister
Assin Nsuem (C/R), June 9, GNA- Care Ghana in collaboration with some queenmothers and the District Chief Executive of Assin South District has discussed ways to boost women’s participation in leadership and local governance under its PROSPER III project.
The PROSPER III seeks to equip women across communities and districts with leadership, communication and negotiation skills.
In addition, it also supports the formation of market research committees and other community-based platforms that empower women to advocate for improved service delivery, including access to agricultural inputs and physical infrastructure.
During the meeting, Nanahemaa Abrekena II, Queen Mother of Assin Ngresi on behalf of the queen mother’s expressed their determination to conduct collaborative activities and engage higher authorities to advocate for the adoption of well- tailored recommendations to achieve the desired objective.
The desired objective, she noted, was women empowerment efforts and push for the inclusion of women in leadership positions within the district and beyond.
She noted that interventions such as the formation of women-led market research committees, leadership training and the establishment of Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA), had strengthened their capacity and confidence to reach out and lead.
She said the queen mothers were ready to use their voices, authority and influence to engage duty bearers and advocate boldly for more women to rise in leadership roles across the district.
Mr Jonathan Birikorang, District Chief Executive (DCE), was grateful to Care Ghana and Cargill, for promoting women participation in leadership and pledged to spearhead advocacy efforts to ensure that more women were allocated leadership roles to positively influence representation, especially at the local level.
Mr Sebastian Korese, Project Manager, appreciated the efforts of Care Ghana and Cargill through the PROSPER III Project, to improve women’s participation in leadership.
Fresh details have emerged following the arrest of popular Nigerian influencer Sapphire Egemasi by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) over her alleged involvement in a $3.9 million internet fraud and money laundering scheme.
One would recall that on Thursday, 5 June 2025, news broke out that Sapphire Egemasi was picked up by the FBI for her involvement in a multi-million dollar internet fraud and money laundering scheme.
According to reports, Sapphire was reportedly arrested in New York together with a Ghanaian, named Samuel Kwadwo Osei, who is believed to be part of the alleged fraud operation.
Subsequently, new details have emerged from the FBI, indicating that three other individuals, Nana Kwabena Amuah, Shimea McDonald, and Garcia were also masterminds behind the scam activity.
In an FBI document sighted by GhanaWeb, Nana Kwabena Amuah is the leader of the alleged fraud operation.
In the document, Nana Kwabena Amuah in 2021, worked with Shimea McDonald to open bank accounts for receiving money from a variety of frauds.
“In 2021, Amuah was directing a co-defendant, Shimea McDonald, to open bank accounts for receiving money from a variety of fraud victims. Amuah helped facilitate McDonald’s getting fake identity documentation, based on fake identity information she obtained from real people,” the document reads.
McDonald, who was also arrested for money laundering and fraud activities, was said to have used the fake identities gathered from Nana Amuah to open shell companies which she then used to set up an account at Truist Bank.
“McDonald also set up shell companies, which she then used to set up bank accounts with fake identities. Once money entered into these accounts, Amuah notified McDonald of the payments and directed her to wire or otherwise bring him the stolen funds,” the document read.
Another individual named Garcia also appeared in the FBI’s list of suspects linked to the money laundering scheme.
According to the FBI document, between February 2022 and February 2023, Garcia collaborated with Nana Kwabena Amuah and Shimea McDonald to obtain fake identity documents.
He went on to establish shell companies across various U.S. states and opened bank accounts using the names of real individuals to receive fraudulently acquired funds.
“From February 2022 to February 2023, Garcia worked with his co-operators, Nana Kwabena Amuah and Shimea McDonald, to commit money laundering. Garcia also worked for Amuah to procure fake identity documents and receive funds that Amuah directed the accounts.
“Once the money was received in those accounts, Amuah would notify Garcia to wire or bring him the money or check to the co-conspirators who facilitated further transfers or initiated the underlying scheme to defraud the victims.” the document added.
Also, per the FBI document, their first fraud transfer was $3.9 million.
Arrest and legal woes
After his arrest, Nana Kwabena Amuah pleaded guilty to all charges in 2021 and was sentenced in 2023 to 86 months in prison, along with a restitution order of $4 million.
Shimea McDonald also earlier received a sentence of 80 months in prison, also with a $4 million restitution order. Garcia was sentenced to 72 months in prison, with a restitution amount of $4.6 million.
It was after the arrest of these individuals that Sapphire Egemasi’s name popped up in the recent batch of fraudulent activities with one Samuel Kwadwo Osei.
Per the FBI report, Samuel Kwadwo Osei popularly known as Tuga has also been declared wanted by the Kentucky Police Service.
It was after this arrest, that the FBI discovered that two other Ghanaians, Derrick Nii Ashitey, and Fred Brobbey Awuah (Kaki), were involved.
“Since 2021, Awuah has been involved member of the conspiracy, including McDonald, Samuel Kwadwo Osei, Fred Brobbey Awuah, and others to open bank accounts and conduct financial transactions involving funds stolen from the targeted entities often via messages sent over Telegram and WhatsApp,” the statement added.
The document detailed that Sapphire and Co. received an amount of $330,000 and $960,000 in the name of a company they operated from which is Lasko Company LLC in August 2022.
Sapphire’s role in the whole fraud activities according to the FBI was that she registered domains that could be used to mimic the real domains.
“To impersonate the vendor, members of the conspiracy including Sapphire registered domains that could be used to spoof or mimic domains belonging to the real vendor or targeted entities,” the document detailed.
JHM/EB
Meanwhile, watch as victims of June 3 disaster decry 10 years of neglect by the state:
The Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed
The Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, has announced the government’s plan to establish specialised environmental courts to prosecute individuals involved in illegal mining and unauthorised tree felling.
Speaking on GTV’s Breakfast Show on June 9, 2025, Mohammed said the move is part of broader efforts to enforce environmental laws and crack down on activities that are destroying Ghana’s natural resources.
“The law is the law, and it must be enforced. Environmental courts will hold accountable those who deliberately destroy our environment, whether through illegal logging or other activities,” he said.
The initiative comes on the heels of the government’s campaign against environmental crimes, particularly illegal mining, also known as galamsey, which has caused extensive damage to water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves.
Mohammed disclosed that armed groups, including foreign nationals, had taken control of nine forest reserves across the country before being removed by state security forces.
He said the scale of illegal mining now poses national security and diplomatic threats, with the use of dangerous chemicals like mercury affecting agriculture and the country’s cocoa industry.
“These groups use heavy metals like mercury, threatening our water bodies, farmlands, and even cocoa production, Ghana’s second-largest foreign exchange earner,” he stated.
The proposed environmental courts are part of the government’s strategy that employs artificial intelligence to monitor forests besides the collaboration with traditional and religious leaders to promote environmental stewardship.
The minister stressed that the law would be applied without discrimination.
“Whether Ghanaian or foreigner, anyone involved in galamsey will face the law. There’s no witch hunt. President Mahama is committed to resetting Ghana, and we won’t spare anyone,” he warned.
On illegal tree felling and environmental degradation in northern Ghana, Mohammed pointed to harmful practices such as bush burning for rituals and hunting in areas like Dagbon, Mion, Nanton and Yendi.
He said these activities are contributing to desertification and poor soil quality.
“Bush burning is not only harmful to the environment but also to agriculture, as it destroys soil nutrients. The ministry will work with traditional leaders to promote sustainable alternatives,” he noted.
The government hopes that the new environmental courts will play a key role in addressing ecological damage and support efforts to protect Ghana’s land, water, and forest resources.
MRA/VPO
Watch as Muntaka Mubarak criticises Afenyo-Markin in Parliament
Cristiano Ronaldo has captained Portugal to win two Nations League titles
A section of football fans have described Cristiano Ronaldo as the Greatest Footballer of All Time (GOAT) after he led Portugal to win the 2025 UEFA Nations League tournament.
The football great scored in the second half to level the game at 2-2 against Spain, sending it to extra time as both teams battled for supremacy.
The Real Madrid legend was substituted as extra time approached and sat on the bench, holding himself up in anticipation, hoping for a positive result.
Portugal defeated Spain 5-3 on penalties to win their second UEFA Nations League trophy, following their inaugural edition win in 2019.
Ronaldo finished the tournament as one of the top goal scorers, finishing second with 8 goals behind Viktor Gyökeres.
He has won five Ballon d’Or awards and 34 trophies for club and country.
In reaction to this, some fans believe that Ronaldo’s records in his footballing career set him apart from his peers, both current and past, labeling him as the ‘GOAT.’
Others applauded him for taking good care of his health to play for quite a long time, and winning trophy at age 40 is remarkable.
However, others opposed the assertion, arguing that the absence of a World Cup in Ronaldo’s trophy cabinet makes him fall short in the GOAT debate, as his rival Lionel Messi has done better.
SB/EB
Read the comments below
Ronaldo:
5× Ballon d’Or,
2× European Golden Shoe
34 trophies
Messi:
8× Ballon d’Or,
6× European Golden Shoe,
44 trophies (39 club trophies, 4 UCL, 1 World Cup, 5 International country trophies)
You can say whatever you want about this 40-year old gentleman, @Cristiano, but he just won another trophy with @selecaoportugal. I don’t want to get into the “GOAT” debate, but Cristiano Ronaldo will definitely remain, for successive generations, as a giant of football.
— Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe (@onduhungirehe) June 8, 2025
Sir with due respect and since your post is public, it means I can give out my view, Ronald ain’t no GOAT. You know the true goat Messi. He completed football. So I suggest we keep it that way. He may have worn euro but that ain’t nothing. Messiah Messi remains a god 🧘♂️
— uwayo Cedric Official. (@uwayo_cedric) June 8, 2025
Messi remains the true GOAT.
The rest are just building on what he already achieved. Anyway, congratulations, Minister.
— Gakuru ka Kayinamura (Fisca) (@fisca47) June 9, 2025
New MRI machines have been successfully installed at Gauteng Hospital
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has ramped up the installation of new MRI machines at key hospitals across the province in a bid to modernise diagnostic services and reduce lengthy waiting times.
This follows growing pressure on public health facilities due to outdated equipment, high demand, and historic staff shortages.
Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko said upgrades are well underway, with several hospitals now operating new MRI units as part of a broader turnaround strategy.
“We have taken steps to ensure that MRI machines are supported by service-level agreements to prevent lengthy downtimes and ensure quick resolution of technical faults,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.
New MRI machines have been successfully installed early this year at Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, and Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital.
“These machines were commissioned in early 2025, enabling significant improvements in service delivery and reducing reliance on older, often faulty equipment.”
Steve Biko recently replaced a decommissioned MRI unit, while Charlotte Maxeke commissioned a new machine in March.
Chris Hani Baragwanath also has a functional MRI machine, completing the rollout across Gauteng’s four central hospitals.
At the tertiary level, Helen Joseph, Kalafong, and Rahima Moosa hospitals also provide MRI services.
Meanwhile, installation at Tembisa Hospital is ongoing following delays caused by a fire in the imaging section.
Despite improvements, Charlotte Maxeke Hospital has a backlog of 2 347 patients awaiting MRI scans, followed by 450 at Dr George Mukhari.
To ease these pressures, the department has extended imaging hours, improved booking systems and increased radiology staffing.
“Urgent and emergency scans are prioritised across the province,” the department said, noting that hospitals such as Steve Biko and Dr George Mukhari offer same-day MRIs for emergency cases.
Where facilities lack MRI machines, patients are referred to nearby hospitals based on clinical urgency. This referral model is monitored daily to avoid missed cases.
In addition to equipment upgrades, the department is enhancing digital systems like PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) to streamline image storage and reporting.
It is also exploring helium-free MRI technology to prevent disruptions caused by cable theft.
“The Department reiterates its commitment to ensuring equitable access to diagnostic services across all regions.
“We will continue to communicate transparently with the public on service availability and improvements,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.
Corporate fashion is all about blending professionalism with style. For ladies, choosing the right outfit for the workplace can boost confidence, make a good impression, and ensure comfort throughout the day. Whether you work in a formal office or a more relaxed business environment, here are some stylish and appropriate corporate outfit ideas.
1. Classic Blazer and Trousers:
A well-tailored blazer paired with matching or neutral trousers is a timeless choice. Opt for colors like black, navy, grey, or beige. Pair with a tucked-in blouse or a simple camisole for a clean, polished look.
2. Pencil Skirt and Button-Down Shirt:
Pencil skirts are flattering and professional. When combined with a crisp white or pastel-colored shirt, they create a sharp, elegant appearance. You can add a belt or accessorize lightly for a feminine touch.
3. Shift or Midi Dresses:
Knee-length shift or midi dresses are comfortable yet stylish. Go for solid colors or subtle patterns. Pair with a blazer or cardigan and closed-toe heels or loafers to complete the look.
4. Corporate Jumpsuits:
A tailored jumpsuit in dark or muted tones can be a chic alternative to the traditional suit. Look for styles with structured cuts and modest necklines. Add a belt and pair with pumps or heeled sandals.
5. Wide-Leg Trousers and Blouse:
High-waisted, wide-leg trousers paired with a tucked-in blouse or light sweater give a modern and professional vibe. Choose flowy fabrics like chiffon or silk for added elegance.
Accessories should be minimal—simple studs, a wristwatch, and a structured handbag work well. Keep makeup natural and hairstyles neat, whether in a bun, ponytail, or styled natural hair.
Dressing smartly doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With these corporate outfit ideas, you can maintain professionalism while expressing your personal fashion sense.
The Greater Accra Regional Police Command has arrested Mavis Nkrumah, 30, for allegedly pouring a liquid substance suspected to be acid on her boyfriend, Gideon Frimpong, at Ablekuma Fan Milk, a suburb of Accra.
Preliminary investigations suggest that on the night of the attack, May 28, the suspect, Mavis, appeared unannounced at the victim’s residence at approximately 1:00 a.m.
The victim, Gideon Frimpong, a 29-year-old taxi driver, engaged her in a brief conversation during which Mavis asked him to drive her home. Gideon agreed and offered to take her home.
Upon reaching a section of the road, Gideon requested Mavis to alight since the road ahead was bumpy and rough, and his vehicle could not drive there. During the stop at Ofankor 7 Days Stretch, Mavis questioned him about their relationship. After the third confirmation of their breakup, she poured the substance suspected to be acid on him.
The victim was identified by a group of people and subsequently rushed to the hospital, where he was treated for his injuries.
A statement signed by the Head of Public Affairs for the Accra Region, Supt. Juliana Obeng, indicated that the victim has been discharged. Meanwhile, Supt. Obeng stated that the suspect attempted to flee the country but was arrested on June 3, 2025, and is currently in police custody for further investigation.
“The command cautions the public to seek lawful and peaceful means of resolving issues; acts of violence are criminal and will be dealt with by the law,” the statement added.
Renowned labour consultant Austin Gamey has urged the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to reconsider their current strike, emphasizing that proper industrial relations procedures were not followed.
Speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, Gamey said the GRNMA is not just an association, but a recognized labour union, and as such, is bound by specific rules and laws that govern its conduct.
JOYCE BOATEY-AGYEI has earned continental recognition after successfully completing the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Women Instructors Development Programme. Her achievement positions her among a select group of women qualified to deliver CAF-certified coaching education across Africa.
Boatey-Agyei completed both phases of the rigorous programme — an online module held between March and April 2025, and a practical in-person workshop in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from May 5 to 9. Her performance met CAF’s high standards, earning her a formal endorsement from CAF to serve as an instructor for CAF coaching courses.
She is now authorised to independently lead CAF B License courses and assist in delivering CAF A License programmes — a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to strengthen technical expertise in women’s football.
In a letter addressed to the Ghana Football Association (GFA), CAF Technical Development Director Raul Chipenda praised Boatey-Agyei’s preparedness and urged the GFA to incorporate her into future coaching development initiatives.
A seemingly light-hearted exchange during the final funeral rites of the late Mamponghene and Krontihene of Asanteman, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, has unexpectedly thrown a spotlight on the intensifying internal contest for the New Patriotic Party (NPP)’s flagbearer slot.
The interaction, widely shared in a viral clip on X, featured former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, underscoring the brewing battle for the party’s leadership.
In the viral footage from the Mampong gathering on Saturday, June 7, 2025, Dr. Bawumia is heard playfully remarking to Dr. Acheampong, “You want to worry me.”
The quip is widely interpreted as a subtle acknowledgement of the anticipated fierce competition for the NPP’s presidential candidacy.
Dr. Bawumia, who led the party into the narrowly lost 2024 presidential elections, is widely expected to seek re-election as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2028 general elections.
However, the path to re-nomination for Dr. Bawumia appears fraught with challenges, as former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, also laces his boots.
Speaking to a gathering of party loyalists in Mampong, a strategic location within the Ashanti Region, which traditionally accounts for 18-20% of Ghana’s total registered voters and is an NPP stronghold, Agyapong vehemently argued against rewarding past electoral “poor performance”.
“The NPP doesn’t give second chances to candidates who fail to deliver. We didn’t do it for Adu Boahen, and we shouldn’t do it now,” Agyapong declared, in a thinly veiled jab at Dr. Bawumia.
His reference to Professor Albert Adu Boahen is a direct historical precedent: Adu Boahen was the NPP’s presidential candidate in the 1992 elections, which the party boycotted in protest of alleged irregularities.
The party subsequently opted for John Agyekum Kufuor as its candidate for the 1996 elections, not giving Adu Boahen a second shot, and Kufuor went on to win the presidency in 2000 and 2004.
Agyapong’s argument, therefore, posits that the NPP’s history proves ‘performance is non-negotiable’ in its flagbearer selection process.
Meanwhile, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, the incumbent MP for Abetifi, has also publicly indicated his interest in contesting the party’s flagbearership, further intensifying the expected race.
The interactions at the Mamponghene’s funeral underscore the complex dynamics unfolding within the NPP as it grapples with its future leadership.
With the party aiming to regain power in 2028, the choice of flagbearer will be critical, necessitating a delicate balance between experience, loyalty, and perceived electability.
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.
Former Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, Abena Osei-Asare, has strongly criticised the newly introduced Energy Sector Levy, arguing that it unfairly denies Ghanaians the benefits of the recent appreciation of the cedi.
The MP expressed concern over what she described as the government’s decision to impose new taxes despite campaign promises to ease the tax burden.
Speaking to Joy FM on Monday, June 9, Abena Osei-Asare said, “Why should you refuse or prevent Ghanaians from enjoying a windfall that they ought to enjoy just because you feel there has been a reduction or appreciation in the cedi against its major trading currencies? We told them that managing the economy is not just about talking and shouting,” she stated.
Mrs Osei-Asare, who also serves as Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament, said the new levy contradicts the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s electoral pledge to reduce taxes and improve the cost of living.
“In your campaign, you told the people of Ghana you were coming to relieve them of the taxes that had been burdening them; you came and all of a sudden you changed,” she noted.
The Energy Sector Levy introduces an additional charge of GHS1 per litre on petrol and diesel purchases. According to the Ministry of Finance, the new levy is intended to address persistent challenges in the energy sector, including funding gaps and operational inefficiencies.
Government officials argue that the measure is necessary to stabilise power supply and ensure long-term sustainability.
However, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has condemned the levy as a regressive tax that disproportionately affects ordinary consumers.
Public reaction has been mixed, with many expressing frustration over rising fuel costs amid broader economic challenges.
We’re open to talks, not renegotiation – GRNMA to Health Minister
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RedNote, known in China as Xiaohongshu, logo is seen in this illustration taken January 15, 2025. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
Reuters
Technology
2 minutes read
China’s Rednote, one of the country’s most popular social media platforms, has released an open-source large language model, joining a wave of Chinese tech firms making their artificial intelligence models freely available.
The approach contrasts with many U.S. tech giants like OpenAI and Google, opens new tab, which have kept their most advanced models proprietary, though some American firms including Meta, opens new tab have also released open-source models.
Open sourcing allows Chinese companies to demonstrate their technological capabilities, build developer communities and spread influence globally at a time when the U.S. has sought to stymie China’s tech progress with export restrictions on advanced semiconductors.
Rednote’s model, called dots.llm1, is available for download on developer platform Hugging Face. A company technical paper describing it was uploaded on Friday.
In coding tasks, the model performs comparably to Alibaba’s Qwen 2.5 series, though it trails more advanced models such as DeepSeek-V3, the technical paper said.
RedNote, also known by its Chinese name Xiaohongshu, is an Instagram-like platform where users share photos, videos, text posts and live streams. The platform gained international attention earlier this year when some U.S. users flocked to the app amid concerns over a potential TikTok ban.
The company has invested in large language model development since 2023, not long after OpenAI’s release of ChatGPT in late 2022.
It has accelerated its AI efforts in recent months, launching Diandian, an AI-powered search application that helps users find content on Xiaohongshu’s main platform.
Other companies that are pursuing an open-source approach include Alibaba (9988.HK), opens new tab which launched Qwen 3, an upgraded version of its model in April.
Earlier this year, startup DeepSeek released its low-cost R1 model as open-source software, shaking up the global AI industry due to its competitive performance despite being developed at a fraction of the cost of Western rivals.
The Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament, Abena Osei Asare, has cautioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to exercise its mandate with professionalism.
Speaking to recent investigations including the former finance minister, Kenneth Ofori-Atta, by the OSP on JoyNews on June 9, 2025, she cautioned the anti-graft agency to be wary of breaching the human rights of people.
Abena Osei Asare explained that in its efforts to demand public accountability from certain individuals, the OSP, despite being established to fight corruption, must execute its mandate without violating individual’s rights.
According to her, acting contrary to these principles while exercising its mandate could undermine the very purpose of corruption fight and the promotion of accountability.
“I believe that in whatever we do, professionalism is key. The OSP has to carry out its mandate but it should also know that it has to be professional, so that at the end of the day, we all achieve the common good.
“That is how I look at it. OSP has a mandate. The OSP has to discharge its mandate because it has come to stay and it is supposed to help us fight corruption. So, that principle must not be sacrificed. All I’m saying is that it has to be done professionally,” she said.
Osei Asare, who is also the Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, expressed her disagreement and displeasure with certain ongoing developments involving the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and its pursuit of some politically exposed persons implicated in corruption-related charges.
However, she acknowledged that the OSP’s work is necessary to fulfill its mandate.
“Let me mention that the OSP office is here to stay. Initially, many had disagreements on why we should have an OSP because we believe that there are several anti-corruption agencies and legislations to guide us. Yet, OSP was set up specifically for that reason and now it has come to stay and has a mandate,” she stated.
“As much as I may disagree with the kind of things happening out there, especially in terms of the public stance; the OSP has a mandate. I do not wish to comment on the ongoing efforts in the name of public accountability but the OSP should do what is expected of it,” she added.
MAG/VPO
Meanwhile, watch as victims of June 3 disaster decry 10 years of neglect by the state:
Ghana will participate in the 2025 Pride of Africa tourney
This summer kicks off with rising football talent Gideon Mensah suiting up for Ghana in the Pride of Africa Cup 2025, a London-based international tournament bringing together four African nations: Ghana, Nigeria, Algeria, and Eritrea.
The one-day tournament takes place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at The Bobby Moore Sports Hub, Parsloes Park, and promises to be a thrilling showdown for continental glory.
Following up on his journey, first profiled by GsportsGH, Gideon is wasting no time making fresh moves.
“This summer starts off with me taking part in the Pride of Africa. It’s a chance to represent Ghana again and really show my hunger to grow, break into the football system, and push for my dream—to sign a professional contract and eventually play for the Black Stars,” he said.
Now 23, the London-born defender has traveled far and wide to sharpen his game. Over the past few months, Gideon made his Danish FA Cup debut, impressing in competitive action as teams in Denmark take a closer look at him.
With years of experience under his belt, including spells at Fort William FC, Brookhouse FC, Southend Manor, Farnborough, and Bristol Rovers U19s, Gideon has built a reputation as a versatile, forward-thinking left back who can also hold his own on the wing or in midfield.
He’s currently a free agent, primed for his next professional step.
The Pride of Africa Cup is more than just a tournament. For players like Gideon, it’s a statement—a way to stay sharp, stay visible, and inspire others within the Ghanaian and African football diaspora.
SB/EB
Watch as Techiman Eleven Wonders crowned 2025 Division One League Champions
Cases of soldiers and security personnel getting involved in illegal activities have become common
The police have arrested a Uganda People’s Defence Forces deputy division commander and his guards on allegations of armed robbery and abduction of a gold dealer in Mubende District.
A source said the colonel and his guards were intercepted by Wamala Region police officers on the Mityana-Mubende road as they drove off a gold dealer they had abducted.
Senior police officers at both the police headquarters and at Wamala Police Region confirmed the arrest of the colonel and his bodyguards, but did not give any details.
“They were arrested and we have handed them over to the UPDF. You should talk to the UPDF for details,” a senior police officer said on June 8.
The colonel was reportedly critical in Operation Shujaa that sought to pacify eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, the Director of Defence Public Information, declined to comment, saying he had not settled in office. He referred the publication to Col Chris Magezi, who in turn said he had already handed over the office to Maj Gen Kulayigye.
Sources said the colonel and his guards drove to the scene to raid the victims whom they suspected to be holding gold and money.
However, they arrived at the scene only to discover the victim did not have any gold and money.
The soldier then abducted the target and drove him off as someone tipped off the police, who then swung into action and intercepted the suspects.
Cases of soldiers and security personnel getting involved in illegal gold deals and robbery have become common in Uganda.
Last month, four Flying Squad Unit officers, including a Superintendent of Police, were arrested and arraigned in court on allegations of aggravated robbery of gold and dollars from John Vian Tumukunde at Nakawa in Kampala City on May 9, 2025.
The four officers were remanded to prison.
In July last year, some soldiers were also involved in a robbery of gold that left two people dead in Buddo on Masaka Road.
The Deputy General Secretary of the rulling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has strongly criticized the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana for what he describes as an attempt to circumvent electoral laws in the re-collation of results in the Ablekuma North constituency.
Gbande said the commission was acting outside its legal bounds and accused it of trying to “invent a new law.” According to him, the EC cannot arbitrarily amend existing electoral laws—specifically Constitutional Instrument (CI) 127—under the guise of re-collating results.
THE ASHANTI South Regional Police Command has taken custody of two pump action guns, 23 rounds of AA ammunition and three (3) rounds of BB cartridges.
The aforementioned weapons were abandoned on a vehicle and one Kwaku, popularly known as ‘Zador’, according police preliminary checks, may know something about the weapons.
DCOP Joseph Nyaaba, the Ashanti South Police Regional Commander, addressing the media, said the Fomena District Police Command took custody of the weapons.
According to him, the owner of the vehicle gave the car to Kwaku aka ‘Zador’, who is a spare driver, on May 9, 2025 with instruction to return it on May 11, 2025.
“However, the deadline expired and the driver failed to return the vehicle, so the owner went looking for him and found him at Kwabenakwa, a suburb of Obuasi, and took his car away from the suspect.
“Later, search conducted in the vehicle led to the findings of the above mentioned exhibits,” the Ashanti South Regional Police Commander narrated to journalists on Tuesday.
DCOP Nyaaba announced that Kwaku, who is the main suspect in the case, is being hunted by the police to assist in investigations.
Romeo Beckham appears to be turning the page on his recent breakup with model Kim Turnbull, sparking fresh romance rumours with German fashion influencer Caroline Daur.
The two were spotted together over the weekend in Paris, just days after news broke of Beckham’s split from Turnbull.
Beckham and Daur were seen leaving the same party at the upscale Hotel Costes on Saturday night. Photographs captured the pair getting into the same car, fuelling speculation about a budding relationship. According to reports, they continued the night at Giulia nightclub, where they partied until around 2:30 a.m. before departing separately.
The 21-year-old son of David and Victoria Beckham has drawn attention not only for his high-profile breakup but also for the drama it reportedly stirred within the Beckham family. Sources suggest that Brooklyn Beckham and his wife, actress Nicola Peltz, had reservations about Romeo’s relationship with Turnbull, raising speculation about ongoing family tensions.
Caroline Daur, a prominent figure in the European fashion scene, boasts a strong social media following and is a regular at global fashion events. Her connection with Beckham has already generated buzz online, with fans closely watching for developments.
While neither Romeo nor Caroline has publicly commented on the nature of their relationship, their recent outing in Paris has added a new chapter to Beckham’s post-breakup headlines.
Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has chided his successor, Kissi Agyebeng, for what he believes to be an ill-treatment of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who has been declared “wanted” on Interpol’s official website.
Ofori-Atta’s appearance on Interpol’s website comes at a time when the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has re-declared him wanted.
Editor of Newscenta newspaper, Elvis Darko, has criticised the newly introduced GHS1 fuel levy, warning that it will not resolve Ghana’s energy sector crisis and risks creating false hope among the public.
Describing the measure as a “desperate revenue move,” Darko said it fails to tackle the deep-rooted inefficiencies crippling the sector.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Monday, June 9, he noted that although the levy is projected to raise GHS5.7 billion, it falls short of addressing structural problems such as ECG inefficiency, ballooning legacy debts, and mounting capacity charges.
“The one-cedi levy, though painful, cannot fix the challenges. If people are made to believe this will end dumsor and it doesn’t, the government will face serious backlash,” he cautioned.
He argued that unless government reinvests in the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and undertakes broader reforms, the levy would only provide short-term relief without sustainable impact.
Darko also stressed the need for honest communication with the public, saying oversimplified promises would damage government credibility.
Parliament passed the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, on June 3, introducing the GHS1-per-litre charge on petroleum products. The government expects to raise an extra GHS5.7 billion from the levy to support debt payments and fuel procurement for power generation.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has disclosed that Ghana currently owes $3.1 billion in energy-related debts, with $3.7 billion needed to clear arrears and a further $1.2 billion required for thermal fuel in 2025.
The levy has drawn criticism from industry stakeholders, including the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), which warned of its potential impact on fuel prices and consumer costs. In response to the backlash, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has delayed implementation from June 9 to June 16.
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, exchanged a light-hearted moment during the final funeral rites of the late Mamponghene and Krontihene of Asanteman, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II.
In a viral clip, shared on X from the event, Dr. Bawumia is heard playfully telling Dr. Bryan Acheampong, “You want to worry me,” hinting at a possible fierce internal contest for the New Patriotic Party (NPP)’s flagbearer slot.
Dr. Bawumia, who led the party into the 2024 presidential elections, is widely expected to seek re-election as the NPP’s presidential candidate.
Meanwhile, Bryan Acheampong, the MP for Abetifi, has also indicated an interest in contesting the party’s flagbearership, raising expectations of a competitive race within the NPP.
Also, other notable figures are rumored to be considering bids. These include former MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong—who ran against Bawumia in 2023—and current Minister of Education and MP for Bosomtwe, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum.
Meanwhile, former Member of Parliament and former NPP presidential aspirant, Kennedy Agyapong says the party has never made it a practice to reward poor performance with a second shot—particularly in the selection of its presidential candidate.
Speaking at Mampong in the Ashanti Region during a visit to mourn the late Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu, Ken Agyapong told a gathering of party loyalists that the NPP’s electoral history proves ‘performance is non-negotiable.’
“The NPP doesn’t give second chances to candidates who fail to deliver. We didn’t do it for Adu Boahen, and we shouldn’t do it now,” Ken Agyapong declared, taking an indirect jab at former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who led the party in the 2024 general elections but lost to the NDC.
We’re open to talks, not renegotiation – GRNMA to Health Minister
The early 1990s were a transformative period in Ghana. As democracy re-emerged and youth culture began to redefine itself, the music scene witnessed a shift.
Highlife, once the country’s dominant genre, was losing its spark among younger audiences looking for something that spoke directly to their reality.
That moment called for a new sound – and Reggie Rockstone answered. Drawing on his experiences, he fused the soul of Highlife with the pulse of American Hip-Hop but gave it a uniquely Ghanaian heartbeat, and so, Hiplife was born.
The secret weapon was the language. By rapping in Twi and Pidgin English, Hiplife instantly became accessible and relatable.
During the early years, if Ghana’s streets could sing, they’d spit bars over a Hiplife beat. “Ei Charlie, drop that beat” – was shouted across schoolyards, street corners, and recording booths, signaling the start of a cultural movement.
A genre in motion
Fast forward to today, and the numbers tell a compelling story. Globally, Hiplife streams on Spotify have surged by 79% over the past three years, driven by a consistent average annual growth of 34%.
But the most remarkable growth has happened at home – in Ghana. Since 2022, Hiplife streams in Ghana have skyrocketed by 203%, with an impressive 90% jump recorded in 2024 alone, building on a strong 59% increase from the previous year.
In Ghana, 44% of Hiplife listeners in 2025, so far, are between 18-24, with another 29% in the 25-29 age bracket. Globally, the pattern holds: 38% of Hiplife streams come from the 18-24 age group, followed by 27% from 25-29-year-olds. Turns out the real MVPs of Hiplife’s surge are young people.
According to KiDi Music, Hiplife is the DNA of today’s sound. “Hip life hasn’t disappeared,” he says, “It’s evolved. You hear it in the beat, the bounce, the blend. It’s the foundation of what a lot of us do today, even when we call it Afrobeats.”
Who’s leading the charge?
While pioneers like Reggie Rockstone, Obrafour, Okyeame Kwame and MzBel laid the foundation, a new generation is carrying the torch and using it to light up global charts. Leading this pack is Black Sherif; his gritty storytelling and trap-inspired edge transcend the borders of Ghana, telling the Ghanaian story to the rest of the world.
He’s joined by King Promise, KiDi, the ever-consistent Sarkodie as well as Gyakie. On the home front, artists like Kwesi Arthur, Lasmid, Olivetheboy, Kofi Kinaata, King Paluta and Kuami Eugene have consistently ranked among the most-streamed Hiplife artists on Spotify over the past three years.
Classic tracks haven’t lost their shine either. Reggie Rockstone’s Ah!, MzBel’s 16 Years, and Obrafour’s Oye Ohene continue to rack up streams, proof that Hiplife is built on a solid foundation
KiDi pays homage to the roots: “Artists like Lord Kenya, and Terry Bonchaka also helped build this house we now call Ghanaian music. Our generation just renovated it and added new rooms.”
The sound of reinvention
Hiplife is constantly evolving. Joey B is mixing Hiplife with sexy drill with songs like Princess and Akorfa, blending the attitude of drill with the charm of early 2000s Hiplife. On the other hand, Asakaa artists like Jay Bahd, O’Kenneth and Beeztrap KOTM are weaving Twi lyricism into global drill rhythms.
According to Efya, this innovation is exactly what the genre needs: “Hiplife’s future is in fusion. I see Asakaa and Afrobeat as natural extensions of that original Hiplife energy — gritty, local, and full of soul.”
Efya also emphasised the importance of emotion and storytelling in the evolution of the sound: “Hiplife has always carried emotion, from the way we phrase our words to the weight behind our lyrics. I think what’s happening now is artists are getting bolder about expressing that, whether it’s through love songs, political commentary or just pure vibes.”
To lock in the idea that the genre’s future is in bold, capable hands, Bad Feeling by Tulenkey featuring Beeztrap KOTM won Hiplife Song of the Year at the recent Ghana Music Awards, along with Kweku Smoke taking home Best Hiplife/Hip-Hop Artist.
A diaspora rewind
The genre’s reach now extends far beyond Ghana, with the top five countries streaming Hiplife outside Ghana being Nigeria, the USA, the UK, Germany and the Netherlands, showcasing its global appeal.
UK-based Ghanaian artist Bree Runway is also reintroducing classic Hiplife to international audiences through her viral Thursday Throwback remixes. By revamping hits from the 2000s, she’s tapping into a shared sense of nostalgia that appeals to both older fans and Gen Z listeners discovering these tracks for the first time.
Similarly, Ghanaian-Dutch artist Frenna sampled Kokoveli’s Za Za in a recent track with Shallipopi showing a fresh wave of nostalgia-driven Ghanaian sounds.
Where next? The road ahead for Hiplife
Listening to The Game by Obour, Richie, and Okyeame Kwame—a track that reflects both the challenges facing Hiplife and the hope for its evolution—it’s clear that the genre still has a strong pulse. After 30 years, Hiplife isn’t fading; it’s evolving.
Efya believes the genre’s next chapter must be intentional: “We need to preserve the essence while pushing boundaries. Collaborations across generations are key. Imagine the textures when you pair an old-school beat with a new-school voice. That’s magic.”
If the last three years are any indication, the genre is far from slowing down. One thing is certain: its future will be shaped by the bold, unapologetic voices of Ghana’s youth.
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.
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Dennis Miracles Aboagye is a former Director of Communications for 2024 Bawumia campaign team
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a former Director of Communications for Dr Bawumia’s 2024 campaign, has strongly condemned remarks made by some members of the camp of former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, against Dr Bawumia, who is also eyeing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership slot.
Speaking on Okay FM on Monday, June 9, 2025, Aboagye expressed his disgust over some of the comments, particularly remarks made by Kennedy Agyapong, stating that the approach taken by these individuals does not promote unity but rather fosters divisiveness.
He also denied claims made by Kwasi Kwarteng, spokesperson for Kennedy Agyapong, that the recently concluded “Thank You Tour”, led by the party’s leadership and Dr Bawumia, was a disguised campaign to promote their preferred candidate to voters.
“It is not in the nature of our party to wash our dirty linens in public or engage in politics of insults. It is not true that the Thank You Tour we just concluded was a campaign. All the national executives of the party participated in the tour, so, how can one say that it was a campaign?”, he said on Okay FM.
Miracles Aboagye went on to warn members of Kennedy Agyapong’s camp that their remarks could ultimately affect their political chances in the primaries, cautioning them not to play the victim if things don’t go their way.
He added that the party’s delegates are discerning enough to vote not based on tribal politics but on the character and competency of those vying for the flagbearer position.
“If you go around making such claims and people vote against you, don’t turn around to play victim because the NPP delegates know their party very well. They won’t just vote based on some disparaging and insulting remarks but based on character and who can lead the party.
“Dr Bawumia has never been heard talking badly about someone just to win votes, so why would they do that? This is the same approach they took that caused them to lose the 2023 NPP primaries,” he stated.
MAG/AE
Meanwhile, watch as victims of June 3 disaster decry 10 years of neglect by the state:
Geremi Njitap and his wife Laura are getting a divorce
Former Real Madrid player, Geremi Njitap, has filed for divorce after a DNA test revealed that he is not the father of the twins he raised.
Reports indicate that the ex-Cameroon footballer’s wife, Laure, supposedly had an intimate affair with her ex-husband while she was married to Geremi, which possibly resulted in the pregnancy.
Court documents seen indicate that the twins are actually the children of Laure’s ex-husband, not Geremi, as previously believed.
“No children have been born from this union [between Geremi and Laure]. But the discovery that the children were from her previous partner destroyed the couple’s harmony and caused him a huge emotional shock,” The Sun reported.
Geremi played 45 times in La Liga for Real Madrid before a loan spell at Middlesbrough brought him to England.
He was then signed by Chelsea after impressing for Cameroon in the Confederations Cup and went on to play 72 times for the Blues in the Premier League.
SB/AE
Watch as Techiman Eleven Wonders crowned 2025 Division One League Champions
Bystanders dear the wreckage of an a minivan involved in a road crash recently
Road traffic injuries remain the leading cause of trauma in Uganda, contributing up to 13 per cent of all deaths, a new emergency care survey has revealed, with health experts warning that many of these fatalities are worsened by improper first response handling at accident scenes.
Medical professionals say that while some accident victims may survive the initial impact, many die or suffer irreversible damage because of how they are lifted, moved, or transported before receiving emergency medical care. The president of Uganda Medical Association (UMA), Dr Herbert Luswata, explains that in most road traffic accidents, well-meaning bystanders often rush to assist victims by lifting or moving them without proper medical training, an act he says can cause further internal injuries, especially to the head, spine, or chest.
“One of the silent contributors to trauma-related deaths is the way casualties are handled right after accidents. You find someone with a spinal injury being lifted onto a motorcycle or into a pickup without any neck or spine support that worsens their situation,” Dr Luswata says.
UMA president says the major effect lies within the uneven distribution, where type C ambulances are mainly covering Kampala, metropolitan areas, and some cities that have come up.
“In the far areas, the type of ambulances we have are type A, which are more of carriers with usual non-medical personnel. We lack basic emergency services in regional hospitals like emergency chest x-rays, emergency ultrasound scans, and emergency CT scans for brain injuries or brain trauma,” Dr Luswata said.
He added: “This is a big problem because sometimes even in our national referral hospital like Mulago, when they bring accident victims with a head injury, sometimes you cannot be able to carry out a brain CT scan as immediately as required and we end up referring patients outside Mulago to go and do brain CT scans and then come back and we work on them.”
In response, the Ministry of Health stated its plans to train boda boda riders, police, and community first responders, recognising that these groups are often the first to arrive at crash scenes or to call for help. According to the State Minister for Health in charge of general duties, Ms Anifah Kawooya, the goal is to create a basic but effective front-line emergency response network that can stabilise victims before proper evacuation, as the country still faces a major shortage of ambulances, especially along key highways, with a reported decline in deaths.
“We still face a significant shortage of ambulances, particularly for road traffic emergencies. For example, along the Kampala–Masaka Highway, a hotspot for road crashes, there is no dedicated highway ambulance. The nearest one is stationed at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, which is far from many of the accident scenes, and that delay puts lives at risk,” she said.
At the national level, according to Ms Kawooya, Uganda currently has about 253 ambulances, and an additional 10 are deployed for emergencies along water bodies, which are insufficient for the population and geography. She noted that every major route and constituency should have a well-equipped, functional ambulance. But the largest proportion of these are type A ambulances that lack equipment and trained medical personnel, on which many communities still rely. Road accidents account for nearly 70 percent of cases at facilities such as Mulago National Referral Hospital.
Emergency care
According to the Emergency Care Systems Survey Report 2024, released on the International Emergency Medicine day in Kampala on Tuesday last week, further states that Uganda registered 133,935 emergency cases throughout 2023 across various regions, with the Albertine region having the most cases. 35.8 per cent of these emergency cases led to admissions for further treatment and observation, 2.1 per cent resulted in death, and 17 per cent of the cases documented were trauma and injuries.
Despite the survey reporting a 50 per cent reduction in emergency-related deaths in recent years, the commissioner for emergency medical services, Dr John Baptist Waniaye, noted the gravity of the situation.
“We continue to record high numbers of deaths from trauma, road accidents, infectious diseases, and mental health crises. It is essential that emergency medicine be prioritised to ensure a rapid, skilled response to life-threatening conditions.
‘‘Many regional referral hospitals cannot conduct emergency brain CT scans, which are critical for trauma cases. Even the few emergency physicians being trained are not fully absorbed by the government, and we are strongly calling for a specific budget to support their recruitment,” he said.
Deputy General Secretary of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has urged the Health Minister to revoke the appointment of the leadership of the Registered Nurses and Midwives Association of Ghana.
According to him, they are heartless and do not deserve to serve the people of Ghana in the positions they occupy.
The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, has appealed to members of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to reconsider their ongoing strike.
The industrial action, which follows unresolved issues regarding conditions of service, has disrupted healthcare delivery across the country.
Addressing the media on Monday, June 9, Professor Akoriyea acknowledged the concerns of the nurses but urged them to prioritise the well-being of patients and return to the negotiation table.
He also emphasised that some healthcare needs are time-sensitive and cannot be postponed, warning that the continued absence of nurses could put lives at risk.
“Let me take this opportunity to call on our sisters and brother nurses to come back to work. Just like I told one pregnant nurse yesterday, if you come to the hospital now to give birth because your time is due, what are you going to say? Will you say, ‘I won’t deliver today because we are on strike?’ Let’s all go back to the negotiation table. I humbly add my voice to the Honourable Minister that, please, come back to work and let’s continue the negotiation,” he appealed.
Dennis Miracles Aboagye is a former Director of Communications for 2024 Bawumia campaign team
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a former Director of Communications for Dr Bawumia’s 2024 campaign, has strongly condemned remarks made by some members of the camp of former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, against Dr Bawumia, who is also eyeing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership slot.
Speaking on Okay FM on Monday, June 9, 2025, Aboagye expressed his disgust over some of the comments, particularly remarks made by Kennedy Agyapong, stating that the approach taken by these individuals does not promote unity but rather fosters divisiveness.
He also denied claims made by Kwasi Kwarteng, spokesperson for Kennedy Agyapong, that the recently concluded “Thank You Tour”, led by the party’s leadership and Dr Bawumia, was a disguised campaign to promote their preferred candidate to voters.
“It is not in the nature of our party to wash our dirty linens in public or engage in politics of insults. It is not true that the Thank You Tour we just concluded was a campaign. All the national executives of the party participated in the tour, so, how can one say that it was a campaign?”, he said on Okay FM.
Miracles Aboagye went on to warn members of Kennedy Agyapong’s camp that their remarks could ultimately affect their political chances in the primaries, cautioning them not to play the victim if things don’t go their way.
He added that the party’s delegates are discerning enough to vote not based on tribal politics but on the character and competency of those vying for the flagbearer position.
“If you go around making such claims and people vote against you, don’t turn around to play victim because the NPP delegates know their party very well. They won’t just vote based on some disparaging and insulting remarks but based on character and who can lead the party.
“Dr Bawumia has never been heard talking badly about someone just to win votes, so why would they do that? This is the same approach they took that caused them to lose the 2023 NPP primaries,” he stated.
MAG/AE
Meanwhile, watch as victims of June 3 disaster decry 10 years of neglect by the state:
Kennedy Agyapong is a former Assin Central lawmaker and NPP presidential hopeful
The 2024 presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party, Kennedy Agyapong has been trending over the weekend following a viral video where he had met what looked like his supporters and pitching himself for flagbearer of the party in the 2028 elections.
In the video, Kennedy insinuated that the church voted against the 2024 flagbearer of the party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, perhaps on religious grounds and asked the supporters to elect him.
“In this church we are in, they spoke. I am speaking in parables . The church spoke but we did not listen and we have seen what has happened.”
“If they want power, Ghanaians say it is only Kennedy Agyapong they will vote for.”
“Do you want to remain home for another 4 years or 8 years? Are you ready for that? Let us listen to what the people are saying. Let us listen to what Ghanaians are saying”, he said on the viral video.
But Kennedy Agyapong’s comments seem to have backfired on him, hence attracting condemnation with social media users labeling his character to reek of hypocrisy.
Some critics have accused him of working against Bawumia and the New Patriotic Party in the 2024 elections.
In the wake of the current happenings within the NPP, several videos of Kennedy Agyapong making disparaging statements about the party which resulted in their defeat in the 2024 elections have popped up.
Serving as a flashback, Mr Agyapong was heard on the video vigorously campaigning against his own party.
He said; “The situation we are in now, Ghanaians don’t need change; change needs Ghanaians. Yes, Ghanaians don’t need change, change needs us.”
Further calling for a change of government, in an interview with KSM, Kennedy Agyapong added; “It means that we’ve gone past change. The situation is worse that the change itself is now saying that please come and let me change you.”
play videoGhana Business League Awards honours businesses
Maven Communication, in partnership with Zeliatte Media, rewarded businesses and industry players as it honoured 41 businesses at the 2025 Ghana Business League Awards.
The event, which took place on June 6, 2025, at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, was held under the theme “From Vision to Success: Celebrating Ghana’s Top Businesses.”
The high-level event highlighted the work of various businesses in Ghana across several sectors of the economy.
Speaking exclusively to GhanaWeb on the sidelines of the event, the Event Director of Mavens Communications, Joojo Danso Asante, said, “We are not merely event organisers; we create platforms that honour genuine achievements and catalyse transformation. We are proud to be the driving force behind not only this ceremony, but also initiatives such as the African Best Business Awards and the forthcoming HR Services and Awards.”
He also noted that his outfit is committed to investing in talents and potentials through philanthropy.
“Our commitment to national development is expressed not only through our collaborations with businesses, but also through our investment in the next generation,” he said.
In attendance were the Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi; the Member of Parliament for Mion Constituency, Misbahu Mahama Adams; MP for Berekum West, Dickson Kyere-Dua; and Andrew Akoto, Country Manager, KPMG; as well as Anita Quashie, Director, Marketing and Investment Promotion – Ghana Free
Zones Authority; and the CEO of GhanaWeb, David Antwi.
The Member of Parliament for Bodi and Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Sampson Ahi, during his remarks, underscored the laurels of Ghana’s businesses and the contributions they have made to Ghana’s economy.
He said, “Tonight is more than a mere awards ceremony; it stands as a testament to the power of vision, the triumph of perseverance, and the collective wealth of a nation rising above adversity to forge prosperity.”
The Chairman of the 2025 Awards Committee, Evans Hockey, congratulated both award nominees and recipients, while highlighting their achievements in the Ghanaian business landscape.
“Whether you walk away with an award or not, your presence here this evening is evidence that you are among Ghana’s finest. We are the architects of our nation’s future, and we carry within us the potential to shape a radiant tomorrow,” he noted.
Business leaders from key sectors, including manufacturing, services, agribusiness, medicine and technology were awarded.
The CEO of St John’s Hospital and Fertility Centre, Dr Maame Yaa Afriye, was honoured as the Female Business Personality of the year.
The event was supported by leading sponsors such as KPMG, Sunshine, and other prominent industry players.
A digital registration and barcode system was implemented to streamline logistics and enrich the guest experience.
Accra, June 7, GNA – Danish Ambassador to Ghana, Tom Nørring, has urged Ghana to rise to its full potential by deepening transparency, strengthening accountability, and committing to bold, visionary leadership.
Speaking at a diplomatic reception in Accra to mark the 176th anniversary of Denmark’s Constitution, Amb. Nørring said while Ghana was endowed with abundant natural resources, fertile land, and a vibrant, youthful population, much of its promise remained unrealized due to persistent governance challenges.
“I will start out by saying from my heart that it’s been an incredible experience to be an ambassador here in the land of what I call gold and honey,” Ambassador Nørring said.
He emphasised: “The abundance of natural resources, fertile grounds and youthful and talented human capital in this country is striking. But I must also admit that over the last five years it has saddened me a lot to see Ghana’s vast potential remaining untapped.”
The Ambassador, whose tour of duty in Ghana is coming to an end, expressed concern that the wealth of the country was often enjoyed by only a privileged few.
His comments marked a reflective and forward-looking close to his five-year tenure in Ghana, during which Denmark has deepened its engagement with Ghana through initiatives in climate action, maritime cooperation, water and sanitation, and regional security.
He stressed that any meaningful national transformation would require an honest confrontation of the systemic issues undermining growth, particularly corruption and weak accountability structures.
“And it has maybe saddened me even more that the richness in gold and honey, as I said, is only felt by the privileged few,” he added.
Amb. Nørring stated, “I do wish to commend the new government in its recent steps to improve transparency and public accountability and its willingness to confront these challenges upfront and in the open.”
He lauded the recent efforts by Ghana’s leadership to acknowledge these structural problems publicly, describing the initiative as “painful and unpopular” but also as “extremely important.”
“If translated into action, these steps can pave the way for deeper trust between leaders and citizens and a society better rooted in fairness and equity,” Amb. Nørring noted.
He said, “It is my sincere hope that Ghana’s leaders, current and future, will have the necessary vision, courage and resolve to tackle the pending issues and unlock the full potential of this great nation.”
Beyond policy, Amb. Nørring emphasized the power of equal partnerships between nations, and called for even strengthen cooperation.
He praised Ghana’s consistent alignment with international democratic values and noted the importance of peer-to-peer collaboration in solving regional and global challenges.
Mr John Dumelo, the Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, representing the Government of Ghana, echoed the call for stronger democratic values and mutual cooperation.
He praised Denmark for being a true partner in development, noting the country’s focus on capacity building, transparency, and equal partnerships.
“Our partnership, built on mutual admiration and shared goals, has flourished over the years,” he stated.
He said: “From climate resilience to maritime security, from agriculture to waste management — our cooperation is grounded in shared purpose and mutual respect.”
Mr Dumelo, also the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogo Constituency, highlighted the donation of a full-mission bridge simulator to the Ghana Navy – a symbol of Denmark’s commitment to peer-to-peer support and technical advancement.
On behalf of President John Mahama and the people of Ghana, the Deputy Minister extended gratitude to Ambassador Nørring for his five years of dedicated service.
“Your legacy is one of integrity, genuine friendship and results-driven diplomacy,” he said.
Joseph Nelson planting some of the seedlings at Sekondi Naval Base
Karpowership Ghana, a power generating company says it is committed to environmental sustainability and the protection of Ghana’s natural resources.
To this end, the company, in partnership with the Sekondi Naval Base and Forestry Commission, has planted 3,000 tree seedlings.
The initiative, which was to commemorate this year’s World Environmental Day, was on the theme, “Restoring Degraded Landscapes.”
Out of the 3,000 seedlings, 100 of them were planted at the Sekondi Naval Base, which houses the Karpowership.
The remaining seedlings were planted in degraded forest reserves and galamsey sites in the region, to help restore those areas.
The company has since 2021 planted 11,000 tree seedlings in Greater Accra and the Western regions in support of the country’s reforestation efforts.
Ms. Sandra Amarquaye, Communication Manager at Karpowership, said the initiative showed Karpowership’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
She said the move was not only about planting trees, but cultivating a culture of protecting the environment.
“Hence the company decided to support government’s ‘Tree for Life’ Initiative with 3,000 trees to degraded forest reserves,” she added.
Mr. Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, said the government was committed to the Tree for Life Initiative.
“We will do everything in our capacity to restore and reclaim all degraded forest lands across the country,” he stated.
Commodore Samuel Ayelazono, Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, praised Karpowership Ghana for showing commitment to sustaining the Tree or Life Initiative.
He said the command was committed to ensure a green and safe environment, and pledged that his outfit would nurture the seedlings to grow into beautiful trees to protect the environment.
Mr. Elikam Kotoko, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, stated that though most forest reserves have been degraded by the activities of illegal miners, there was still hope since the degraded lands could be reclaimed.
He, therefore, called on all stakeholders to help sustain the Tree for Life Initiative, and advocated the formation of forest clubs and forest festivals, which would attract tourists to the country.
“The Forestry Commission remain committed in advancing afforestation, reforestation and restoration initiatives across the country,” he added.
An Accra court has remanded Theophilus Thompson, a known sympathiser of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), into custody after he pleaded not guilty to charges of assaulting journalist Latif Iddrisu of Multimedia Group.
The incident occurred on May 27, 2025, around 7:00 p.m. during a protest staged in front of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra. The demonstration, involving some Members of Parliament and NPP supporters, was in response to the arrest of the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
The police announced in a statement on June 8 that Thompson, 55, was arrested on Saturday, June 7, at about 5:00 p.m. in James Town.
At his arraignment on Monday, June 9, Thompson denied the charges. His defence counsel argued that he is not a flight risk, has a fixed place of residence, and should therefore be granted bail. Citing section 97(4) of Act 30, the lawyer emphasised that “the court shall not refuse or withdraw bail merely as a form of punishment.”
However, the State Attorney opposed the bail request, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation and the fact that other suspects remain at large. She expressed concern that granting bail could compromise the collection of evidence or enable interference with witnesses.
The defence countered that the prosecution had not presented any proof to substantiate claims of possible interference by the accused.
The court ultimately sided with the prosecution, denying bail and remanding Thompson into custody. The case has been adjourned to June 18, 2025.
The courtroom was packed with NPP leadership, including National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B) and National Youth Organiser Salam Mustapha, who attended the hearing to show their support.
Three teacher unions have threatened to go on strike over a delayed payment of book and research allowance.
According to the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG), and the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) the government has failed to release the foreign exchange rate based on which the book and research allowances are to based on and paid.
In a joint press statement dated Monday, June 9, the unions expressed frustration over what they described as an “undue delay” undermining their academic work and said they will declare a strike if the government fail to release the exchange rate and pay the allowance.
They argued that the lack of clarity around the exchange rate for this year’s allowance — which supports lecturers’ research and professional development — had caused significant uncertainty and hardship for their members.
According to them following a joint meeting on June 8, the unions resolved that the government must urgently release the exchange rate and commence payments. They further warned that they would not accept any extension of payments beyond September 2025.
“We stress that this allowance is a statutory entitlement under our Conditions of Service and an essential resource for advancing research, teaching, and knowledge sharing,” the unions said.
The statement added: “We hereby notify all stakeholders that if the government fails to commence the payment process by 13 June 2025, this will be considered a strike notice by UTAG, TUTAG, and CETAG across all campuses.”
The unions urged the government to act swiftly to avoid disrupting the academic calendar and to safeguard the welfare of teachers and the wider academic community.
The book and research allowance, typically paid in foreign currency, helps lecturers fund the purchase of books, journals, and other research materials. Delays in setting the applicable exchange rate — particularly during periods of currency volatility — can significantly reduce the allowance’s value.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has raised concerns over a surge in examination malpractice across Ghana, with urgent calls for stricter oversight and collaboration among educational stakeholders.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum, WAEC officials described the situation as increasingly dire, warning that continued inaction could damage the credibility of Ghana’s education system and the value of its certificates.
According to Daniel Nii Dodoo, Head of Humanities at WAEC’s Test Division, data from recent years point to a growing concentration of malpractices in certain regions.
“Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo regions had the highest number of candidates with malpractice cases — 18,504 in 2023. These are critical areas requiring immediate attention, given their rising trend in malpractice involvement,” he stated.
While emphasising that the regional data is not meant to stigmatise, WAEC insists it would inform targeted interventions and improve examination oversight in identified hotspots.
The Ashanti Region was also named as an area of growing concern.
The Council warned that the integrity of Ghana’s education system is at stake, and that failure to curb the trend could result in long-term consequences, including international skepticism over the authenticity of Ghanaian academic credentials.
WAEC is now calling for enhanced cooperation from the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, school heads, and local authorities to strengthen supervision and enforce strict compliance with examination regulations.
The Council insists that immediate and collaborative actions are necessary to restore public confidence and protect the country’s academic integrity.
Aboubakar Ouattara is the head coach of Hearts of Oak
Hearts of Oak head coach, Aboubakar Ouattara, has criticised some of the club’s supporters for prioritising European clubs over their team, despite Hearts ending the season on a positive note.
The Phobians secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Samartex on the final day of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, June 8, 2025.
Konadu Yiadom scored the only goal early in the second half to seal all three points, extending Hearts’ unbeaten run to six matches, three wins and three draws.
The result saw Hearts finish level on points with arch-rivals Asante Kotoko, who suffered a 3-1 defeat to Vision FC.
However, the Phobians still ended the season five points behind league champions Bibiani GoldStars and failed to secure a top four spot.
Speaking after the match, Ouattara hit back at his critics and expressed his disappointment with fans who, in his view, failed to support the team when it mattered most.
“Now I am popular in Ghana because if you are listening to the radio, it’s Ouattara staying or leaving discussions. You leave Hearts of Oak and support Arsenal, Real Madrid and Barcelona,” he said.
Hearts of Oak was tipped to challenge for the title this season after narrowly avoiding relegation last year.
However, inconsistency, disjointed performances, and growing fan unrest disrupted their campaign.
Despite finishing strong, Ouattara’s future remains uncertain, with speculation growing that he may not remain in charge next season.
Watch the interview below:
FKA/EB
Watch as Techiman Eleven Wonders crowned 2025 Division One League Champions
Albert Ojwang has been described in reports as a teacher and a blogger
Kenya’s police chief has suspended the head of a police station and all officers who were on duty when a man who had been detained for “false publication” died in custody.
Albert Ojwang was arrested for a post on X in the western town of Homa Bay and then driven 350km (220 miles) to the capital, Nairobi, his father Meshack Opiyo told journalists.
“While in custody, the suspect sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall,” a police statement said. He was rushed to hospital “where he was pronounced dead on arrival”.
The director of rights group Amnesty International’s Kenya branch told the BBC that the death of Mr Ojwang was “very suspicious”.
Amnesty said in a statement that the death of the young man, described as a teacher and blogger, “raises serious questions that must be urgently, thoroughly, and independently investigated”.
Senior police officer Stephen Okal is quoted by the Star newspaper as saying what happened in the cell was “an attempted suicide”.
It is not clear what the charge of “false publication” referred to, but Mr Opiyo told online news site Citizen Digital that the arresting police officer said “Albert had insulted a senior person on X”, the social media platform.
A police statement said officers were suspended to allow Kenya’s independent oversight body to conduct an “impartial investigation”.
Speaking at a press conference, police chief Douglas Kanja said the police would give the investigators all “necessary support” to resolve the case.
He said Mr Ojwang was arrested in Homa Bay on Friday, then transferred to Nairobi for questioning and booked at the police station on Saturday.
According the police chief, Mr Ojwang was found unconscious during a routine inspection of the cells, and was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
He said the arrest had been prompted by a complaint by deputy police chief Eliud Lagat “about his name being tarnished”.
“It was on that basis that investigations were actually being carried out,” the police chief added.
The head of the Independent Police Oversight Commission (Ipoa), Ahmed Isaack Hassan, has said they will do “everything to ensure justice is served for the family and for all Kenyans”.
Mr Hassan, who attended the press conference, called on officers not to interfere with the investigations.
A post-mortem examination was scheduled to be carried out on Monday.
The death of Mr Ojwang, who was reported to have been 31, has sparked outrage online and calls for protests to demand police accountability.
Referring to the circumstances of his arrest, Amnesty Kenya director Irungu Houghton said it was “quite shocking” that Mr Ojwang was not booked in at the local police station after being detained, but was instead taken on a long journey.
He called on the independent investigators to secure what he described as “the crime scene” at the police station in Nairobi.
Ojwang’s detention and death comes at a time of rising concern about how some government critics are being treated.
Last week, software developer Rose Njeri – who created a tool to help people oppose a government finance bill – was charged with violating a cybercrime law.
Dr. S K Nuamah, a former Member of Parliament for Kwadaso on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ticket, has made serious allegations about a politically charged scheme that led to his removal from office as reported by Ghana Web.
In a recent interview with Oyerepa TV, Nuamah accused Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, of orchestrating his ousting.
Nuamah claims Wontumi openly told him he had been given instructions to unseat him as the parliamentary candidate.
“Our chairman Wontumi told me, right in front of me, that they said he should unseat me, so he will make sure he does,” Nuamah recalled.
VIDEO LINK
He also spoke about an apology he was instructed to offer to Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, then Minister of Food and Agriculture, without being told what he had done wrong.
This demand, he suggested, was a major turning point in his political downfall. “He was like I should go and apologise to Afriyie Akoto, and I didn’t even know my offence,” he said.
Dr. Nuamah went on to reveal that there were discrepancies in the electoral process ahead of the NPP’s parliamentary primary.
He described how the delegates’ album used in the constituency executives’ election was changed just before the parliamentary election, despite his protests.
In addition, he claimed that the judge who heard his case in court was intimidated into ruling against him. “They called the judge to warn him, so he was under coercion to deliver the verdict without looking at the issue at hand,” he alleged.
Nuamah also admitted that the NPP had significant internal flaws. “Let us talk about our sins,” he concluded.
The New Force Movement has announced the immediate suspension of Adu Acheampong, a member of its presidential candidate’s private security team, following an assault incident captured on video during a recent funeral event.
Acheampong, popularly known as “Seven,” was seen delivering a heavy punch to a man who was repeatedly attempting to approach the New Force candidate, Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Chaddar, during the burial rites of the late Mamponghene and Krontihene of Asanteman, Daasebre Osei Bonsu II, on June 7, 2025.
In a press release signed by the movement’s General Secretary, Charles Yomekpe, the leadership confirmed that Acheampong had used “unjustifiable force” against a supporter who was merely trying to engage with the presidential candidate.
The New Force described the incident as “regrettable” and said it is treating the matter with the “utmost seriousness.”
A full internal investigation has been launched to review the conduct and determine appropriate disciplinary measures. Acheampong will remain suspended while the investigation is underway.
In the meantime, he has been enrolled in a comprehensive anger management programme to address the behaviour exhibited and help prevent any future recurrence.
“Our movement is founded on respect, engagement, and peaceful democratic participation,” the statement emphasised.
Meanwhile, Mr Acheampong has offered an unqualified apology to the victim of the attack.
Nigerian Afrobeats singer Bella Shmurda has stated that if he weren’t a musician, he would have been a preacher or motivational speaker.
Speaking during a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast hosted by Joey Akan, the ‘Triumphant’ crooner said he is convinced that preaching is his purpose.
He stated that he has tried to implement this into his songs.
He said, “Everybody has spirituality, you just have to discover it. I feel like if I wasn’t an artist, I might be a preacher or motivational
Head coach of Vision Football Club, Nana Agyemang, has tagged Vision’s win over Kotoko as the biggest win in his career in the Ghana Premier League (GPL).
Vision dominated Kotoko to a 3-1 win at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex in the season finale in the 2024-2025 GPL season.
In his post-game interview, Nana Agyemang stated that preparation for the game was more mental than tactical and added that the impressive win represents the biggest win of his career in the GPL. (Click highlighted text to read full story)
“It’s a good and resounding victory for the club. Top level football, this will be my biggest win…in Ghana Premier League, this is the biggest win. For me, it’s a fantastic win.”
Vision FC Head Coach Nana Kweku Agyemang
“For the boys to be able to go to the battle field and play the way they did and have that resounding victory…I am very happy as a coach to be able to beat not just Kotoko but even Karim Zito who is a very good and renowned coach here in Ghana” Nana Agyemang said.
Shot from Kotoko (red) v Vision FC Game Photo Courtesy: Vision FC
Vision FC ended its debut campaign in the GPL in 11th place.
Nana Romeo (R) has advised Hajia4reall (L) on image rehab
4. Corporate Jumpsuits:
