Black Queens midfielder Grace Asantewaa shared her excitement on Saturday night after the team advanced to the semi-finals of the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The midfielder started for the Ghana women’s national team on the matchday in their quarter-final encounter against Algeria.

Despite a tough contest against the North African side, Ghana put up a top performance and tamed the opponent in the penalty shootout, securing a 4-2 win after the lottery.

Speaking after the match, which saw her being adjudged Woman of the Match, Grace Asantewaa expressed her delight, commending his teammates for stepping up to secure a place in the last four stage of the 2024 WAFCON.

“I’m extremely excited and proud that we’ve made it to this stage. Ghana has been waiting a long time for this, and we’ve mentally prepared ourselves for the challenge. We knew it was a do-or-die situation, and we rose to the occasion,” Asantewaa said in a post-match interview.

After reaching the semi-finals, Ghana will now take on host nation Morocco in what should be another tough contest.

Yakubu Abanga (the second) and his brother Abanga Yakubu Fuseini

Abanga Yakubu Fuseini, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for the Aowin Constituency in the 2024 elections, has stated that he cannot vouch for his twin brother, Yakubu Abanga (the second), who is the National 3rd Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), over his alleged involvement in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking in an interview with Joy News at the NPP’s Delegates Conference on July 19, 2025, Fuseini said that although he has not personally seen his brother engaging in galamsey, he believes his brother is capable of doing it as an NDC member.

“To me, as an NPP member, I am happy that EOCO should investigate my brother. I want more news that will allow me to send a message to Ghanaians because Mahama promised us he was going to fight galamsey and make it a thing of the past,” he stated.

When asked whether he believed his twin brother was indeed involved in galamsey, he responded, “In fact, I can’t defend any NDC person; they are capable of doing anything. But to me, I have never seen him doing galamsey.”

He further added that there is no NDC member in the country that he can defend, stressing that he wishes to see “more bad news” emerging from the opposition party and the ruling government.

It may be recalled that the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, directed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to launch a full-scale investigation into alleged illegal mining activities involving Joseph Yamin, the National Organiser of the NDC, and Yakubu Abanga.

In a letter dated Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the Attorney-General instructed EOCO to invite the two individuals named in recent reports for interrogation over their suspected involvement in unauthorised mining operations, commonly referred to as galamsey.

The directive follows rising public concern, intelligence assessments, and extensive media coverage of illegal mining, which continues to threaten Ghana’s water bodies, forest reserves, and rural livelihoods.

“These activities not only flout our mining regulations but also gravely endanger our water bodies, forest reserves, and local livelihoods,” the letter emphasised.

Dr Ayine also asked EOCO to broaden its probe to cover other persons found complicit, with special attention to issues raised in the Prof Frimpong-Boateng report on illegal mining.

Additionally, the Attorney-General called for collaboration with the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, given the agency’s regulatory role, to support and guide the investigative process.

“My own brother campaigned against me!” – NPP’s Abanga blames his twin, NDC’s 3rd Vice Chairman Yakubu Abanga, for losing his Aowin seat, saying they don’t share the same ideology. #ElectionsHQ #JoyNewsFocus pic.twitter.com/CD1Cyhf3e6

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) July 19, 2025

AM/SEA

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey

The Blekusu Coastal Protection Project Phase II in the Ketu South Municipality has officially commenced.

“This is not merely symbolic, but rather a clear demonstration of what responsible leadership can do, when it cares, when it listens, when it acts,” President John Dramani Mahama declared at a durbar prior to the groundbreaking ceremony at Agavedzi on Saturday.

He said the government was committed to protecting communities, their livelihoods, and their environment for future generations, regardless of their location.

President Mahama stressed that the Government of Ghana’s initiative reflected a national resolve to defend coastal communities and safeguard lives, homes, and infrastructure.

He noted that the destruction caused by tidal waves was not unique to the Ketu South Municipality, as similar tragedies had occurred in other parts of the country, and the government could not turn a blind eye to the phenomenon.

Ghana’s coastline, he stated, spanned more than 550 kilometres and was a vital asset for fishing, trade, and tourism. However, the stretch remained vulnerable to climate change and tidal wave invasions.

The Blekusu Coastal Protection Project Phase II is expected to bring significant relief to the communities of Blekusu, Agavedzi, Salakope, Amutinu, and Adina.

The President disclosed that the contractors, AMANDI, had been tasked to complete the project within 48 months. The scope includes the construction of 37 armour rock groynes and land reclamation to protect eight kilometres of the coastline.

Groynes are coastal engineering structures built perpendicular to the shoreline to trap sediments and reduce erosion.

Community infrastructure

In addition to the coastal protection works, which are being supervised by the Ghana Hydrological Authority, President Mahama said the government would incorporate essential community infrastructure to enhance local livelihoods.

These would include a modern fish market, cold storage and processing facilities for fisherfolk, fish drying and smoking platforms, a car park and lorry station, public sanitation facilities, and a waste collection system.

“So, this is more than just coastal protection; it is a comprehensive resilience initiative, blending environmental protection with socio-economic infrastructure,” the President emphasised.

He appealed to the Ministry of Works and Housing, the Ghana Hydrological Authority, the Ketu South Municipal Assembly, project contractors and consultants, and the chiefs and people of the beneficiary communities to work together with unity and purpose to ensure the success of the project.

“Let us uphold the values of accountability, transparency, and community engagement throughout the implementation of this project.

“I urge everyone, especially the youth, to take ownership of this project by respecting the construction zones and timelines, and by refraining from harmful activities such as illegal sand winning,” he added.

Modern market for Aflao

President Mahama further announced plans to extend the coastal protection project to Aflao. He also revealed that the construction of a modern market (Asigame) in Aflao was in the pipeline, with support from the Government of China.

The Minister for Works, Housing and Water Resources, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, earlier assured the gathering that work on the project would progress smoothly and be completed on schedule.

The Member of Parliament for the area, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, described the project as clear testimony of the government’s resolve to fulfil its promises to the people.

The Makorsor of Some Traditional Area, Togbuiga Adama III, noted that tidal waves had also destroyed roads in the area and deprived residents of access to potable water. He appealed to President Mahama to intervene and extend support to other affected communities.

Project background

In 2015, during President John Dramani Mahama’s previous term, the government commenced the Blekusu Coastal Protection Project Phase I.

That phase covered a 4.3-kilometre stretch involving the construction of groynes to protect the coastal communities of Azizadzi, Horvi, and Blekusu from tidal wave impact and coastal erosion.

Following the successful execution of Phase I, other vulnerable communities remained exposed to tidal devastation, worsened by rising sea levels due to climate change and variability.

This situation necessitated the urgent commencement of the Blekusu Coastal Protection Project Phase II.

President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has launched an ambitious eight-kilometre coastal protection project to shield vulnerable communities along Ghana’s coastline from the devastating impacts of tidal waves and coastal erosion.

Speaking at a sod-cutting ceremony for Phase II of the Blekusu Sea Protection Project in Agavedzi, Ketu South District of the Volta Region, President Mahama emphasised the urgency of the intervention.

“The sea has taken a lot from this community. It has taken land, property, livelihoods, and our peace of mind. But today, I stand here to say, no more will the sea consume our land,” he declared.

The multi-year initiative, scheduled to run from 2025 to 2029, includes the construction of 37 groins, beach restoration efforts, and the development of key community infrastructure. This consists of a modern fish market, cold storage facilities, and public sanitation systems.

President Mahama described the project as more than just a physical defence against the sea, calling it a “comprehensive resilience initiative” that blends environmental protection with critical socio-economic development.

He also highlighted the broader significance of the project, noting that Ghana’s 550-kilometre coastline is among the most threatened globally by climate change, particularly due to tidal wave flooding and coastal erosion.

“This project is not only about protection, but also about reclaiming what has been lost, rebuilding stronger, and securing a future where our children will not have to flee their homes because of rising seas,” President Mahama stated.

The Blekusu Sea Protection Project stands as a beacon of hope for affected coastal communities, promising not just safety but a sustainable future in the face of growing environmental threats.

Relegation-threatened Dynamos FC have signed two Ghanaian players; Felix Hammond and Mohammed Issaka in a desperate bid to beat the drop in Zimbabwe.

Hammond, formerly of Nsoatreman FC, is a striker and joins a on free transfer.

Centre back-cum-left back Issaka also last played for Nsoatreman in the 2023/24 season where he featured in the CAF Confederation Cup.

He also played for Elmina Sharks and Legon Cities FC in the Ghana top-flight.

Dynamos FC are second from bottom (17th) on the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League table with 15 points.

The Harare-based club are six points above bottom-placed Kwekwe United.

Director-General of the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA), Divine Selasi Agbeti

President John Dramani Mahama has suspended the Director-General of the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA), Divine Selasi Agbeti, for two weeks over alleged misconduct involving a uniformed military officer.

Agbeti is alleged to have used the military officer as a personal bodyguard during public appearances without obtaining the necessary clearance. The action has raised concerns about protocol breaches and national security procedures.

According to a citinewsroom.com report, a letter signed by Dr Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President, and dated July 15, 2025, conveyed the presidency’s strong disapproval of Agbeti’s actions, describing his conduct as “inappropriate and embarrassing to the government.”

Defence Minister Dr Omane Boamah had earlier issued a directive warning state officials against using military personnel as personal bodyguards without official clearance.

Government insiders suggest that further disciplinary action could be taken depending on the outcome of ongoing internal investigations.

Agbeti was appointed Director-General of the NCSA in March 2025, succeeding Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, who had led the authority since its establishment in 2017.

AM/SEA

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey

The Mobile Phone and Accessories Dealers Association of Ghana has raised concerns over the increasing presence of foreigners in the retail market.

Eric Gyamfi, Chairman of the Association, stated that foreigners have taken over their retail activities, causing significant problems for local dealers.

Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he noted an increase in criminal activities, which he claims are mostly influenced by foreigners.

He said, “When you encounter five thieves, four of them are foreigners, and that’s creating a serious challenge for us. Our retail market has been affected to the extent that the police have flagged the Circle phone and accessories market as a red zone.

“The situation is terrible, and we want to correct it and restore our image. We are therefore appealing to authorities to enforce the laws and prevent foreigners from operating in the retail market.”

He also lamented that these foreigners, particularly Nigerians, have taken over the repair market, creating uncomfortable situations for Ghanaian dealers.

He added that the Chinese have also begun to dominate the business, to the point where they are directly competing with Ghanaian retailers.

“These Chinese will sell a product to a wholesaler for Ghc10 and later open a retail store, selling the same product at Ghc9 as a retail price. This situation is destroying our businesses and affecting our capital. We don’t hate anyone, but we are only interested in having the law enforced so that foreigners will not engage in retail and tabletop businesses,” he stated.

He accused the foreigners of bringing inferior goods into the Ghanaian market and using unapproved routes to enter the country.

Eric Gyamfi maintained that they want authorities to deal with the situation before it escalates, or they will “advise themselves” (implying they will take their own action).

“The relevant enforcement agencies should take immediate action. We are exasperated with the presence of foreigners in our retail market. We are advocating for justice and seeking government assistance in our endeavor.

“If they fail to address the situation, we will take matters into our own hands and address the foreign presence. We want them to vacate our markets. If existing laws are not being enforced by our authorities, then we will take necessary measures to address our concerns.”

Goalkeeper Cynthia made two saves as the Black Queens qualified for the semifinals

Black Queens midfielder Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah has praised goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan for her “amazing” performance against Algeria.

Ghana cruised over Algeria with a 4-2 penalty shootout win in the quarterfinal on Saturday afternoon to book a place in the last four.

Goalkeeper Cynthia made two saves as the Black Queens qualified for the semifinals for the first time since 2016.

“Amazing, I told the whole of Ghana to believe in us,” Chantelle said.

“We pushed it, we gave a couple of heart attacks, but [the belief from everyone] pushed us through.

“Cynthia [goalkeeper] made it easy for us. She put us ahead by saving. In my eyes, a goalkeeper should never save a penalty. She did amazing, and we are grateful we’ve got her in goal.”

Ghana will now face the host nation, Morocco, in the semifinal on Tuesday, July 22, at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.

The upcoming clash will be a stern test for Ghana, who are chasing their first WAFCON final appearance since 2006.

Grammy-nominated Ghanaian musician, Rocky Dawuni

Grammy-nominated Ghanaian musician, Rocky Dawuni, has urged the government and media to implement deliberate cultural policies that support local music as a key component of Ghana’s 24-hour economy agenda.

Speaking on Starr Chat with Bola Ray on Starr 103.5 FM on Thursday, July 17, 2025, Dawuni criticised the widespread reliance on foreign-curated playlists in Ghanaian clubs and media, warning that such trends stifle the growth of the country’s creative economy.

“Playlist is becoming global. We sit here and we take somebody else’s playlist,” he said. “I’ll go to clubs and our DJs are playing playlists that somebody in ‘abrokyire’ has put; all of the African artists they think should play in our market.”

He emphasised the need to “grow local” if Ghana is serious about boosting economic contributions from the arts and entertainment sector.

“If you don’t grow artists that are local, we won’t have the capacity to increase that economic contribution of the artists to our economy,” he said.

Rocky Dawuni then tied the issue directly to the broader national conversation about building a 24-hour economy. “If we are talking about 24-hour economy… 24 times Ghanaian artists should be played on Ghanaian radio,” he urged. “We should look at it and say, there’s a policy for it. 24 hours.”

When host Bola Ray followed up, asking if this extended to music played in taxis, trucks, and commercial vehicles, Dawuni responded, “Yes! They should be playing. And not playing only the ones that we feel that… all should be covered, including Rocky Dawuni’s own.”

His comments reinforce growing calls for intentional efforts to elevate Ghanaian music and culture at home as a tool for economic empowerment, job creation, and national identity.

Algeria, who had qualified for the knockout stage for the first time, may possess a miserly defence well marshalled by N’Gazi, but up front they only managed one goal in four outings during their stay in Morocco.

Their best chance of the quarter-final came as early as the third minute when the North Africans worked the ball across the box to Lina Boussaha, only for the winger to scuff her left-footed shot straight at Konlan.

Ghana had the ball in the net midway through the first half after Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah was released down the right flank and her cut-back was picked up by Nyamekye, who stepped inside onto her right foot and lashed high into the net from just inside the area.

Yet the effort was chalked off after a lengthy VAR check, which showed London City Lionesses forward Boye-Hlorkah had been ahead of the last defender by mere inches.

With few clear cut chances, and Algeria in particular labouring in attack, penalties appeared inevitable from midway through the second half.

Les Vertes were immediately on the back foot in the shootout when Dafeur, after a long wait for the referee’s whistle, placed her left-footed effort too close to Konlan.

N’Gazi had been named as the best goalkeeper from the group stage but had little chance of reaching Ghana’s well-placed penalties and her opposite number saved again in the third round when she leapt to her left to palm away full-back Belloumou’s strike.

Badu was left to win it – and make amends for the chance she passed up late in the game – to put the Black Queens into the last four for the first time since 2016.

The West Africans have finished as Wafcon runners-up three times and will now have to pull off an upset against Morocco if they are to go on and claim their first continental title.

Some officers of the Ghana Armed Forces

The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the Ghana Armed Forces, while cautioning military personnel against engaging in unauthorised guard duties.

Dr Boamah issued the warning during a working tour of military installations under the 1 Garrison in Tema. His visit covered key units including the Eastern Naval Command (ENC), the 1 Infantry Battalion (1BN), the 851 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment, the Base Ammunition Depot, and the Army Recruit Training School at Shai Hills.

The visit was part of a broader initiative to assess the operational readiness, infrastructure, logistics, and welfare concerns affecting military effectiveness.

Welcoming the Minister, Commodore Solomon Asiedu-Larbi, Garrison Commander and Flag Officer Commanding the ENC, described the visit as a testament to the government’s active interest in the operational and welfare needs of the Armed Forces.

He expressed hope that it would translate into tangible improvements, particularly in naval infrastructure and maritime security along Ghana’s eastern coastline.

In his address to officers, Dr Boamah stressed the importance of professionalism and accountability, warning that any personnel involved in unauthorised duties—or those who direct such actions—would face disciplinary consequences.

“The Ghana Armed Forces must maintain the highest standards of discipline. Unauthorised deployments undermine our credibility and will not be tolerated,” he stated.

He acknowledged the Navy’s critical role in securing Ghana’s maritime domain and vital national assets such as the Akosombo Dam, Adomi Bridge, and offshore oil installations.

He noted that growing threats—including piracy, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, oil theft, and terrorism—demand greater vigilance and investment in both coastal and inland security.

To enhance operational capacity and improve personnel welfare, Dr Boamah announced a series of initiatives under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, including:

Expansion of the Armed Forces’ manpower.

Construction of 10,000 new housing units and completion of previously stalled accommodation projects to reduce the housing deficit of over 17,000 units.

Replacement of obsolete military vehicles to improve troop mobility.

The minister also announced plans to introduce solar energy solutions alongside conventional generators to improve energy efficiency and surveillance operations.

On healthcare, he highlighted the newly launched Mahama Care Foundation, which will provide financial support for dialysis, emergency surgeries, and other critical medical needs for serving personnel and veterans.

Dr Boamah concluded his visit by assuring troops that the government is fully committed to equipping the Armed Forces with the tools, resources, and support necessary to protect Ghana’s national interests.

“Our mission is clear—to build a professional, well-resourced, and combat-ready military force capable of addressing current and emerging threats to our nation,” he emphasised.

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has issued a compelling call to West African leaders, urging them to fortify the regional architecture dedicated to combating Money Laundering (ML), Financing of Terrorism (TF), and Weapons Proliferation.

Speaking at the 2nd Extraordinary Meeting of the Intergovernmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) in Accra, the Vice President underscored the indispensable link between robust financial crime prevention and the sub-region’s security and sustainable development.

GIABA, established by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as a FATF-style regional body (FSRB), plays a critical role in assisting member states to implement international standards against financial crimes.

Its efforts are crucial in a region where illicit financial flows are estimated to cost African economies billions of dollars annually, often fuelling corruption, organised crime, and insurgency.

The Vice President commended GIABA members for their dedication to ensuring that West African states adopt adequate measures in line with acceptable international practices and standards.

“Your work, often behind the scenes, is of great importance to regional security and sustainable development.

This is an opportunity for reflection and foresight, and to reimagine how our regional institutions respond to emerging threats, adapt to evolving contexts, and expand the frontiers of cooperation,” she stated, acknowledging the complex and evolving nature of financial crimes.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang stressed the urgent need for a resilient and adaptive regional framework.

“As leaders and stakeholders, our responsibility is to ensure that our regional architecture for combating Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism and Weapons remains robust, inclusive, and forward-looking. That architecture must be capable of addressing emerging threats within stable jurisdictions and across all of West Africa,” she emphasised.

This call is particularly pertinent given the escalating security challenges in the Sahel and parts of West Africa, where terrorist groups rely on illicit financial networks to fund their operations and acquire weapons.

The effective disruption of these financial lifelines is a key component of counter-terrorism strategies.

A significant aspect of the Vice President’s charge was the imperative for GIABA to engage “all ECOWAS countries, including countries currently in transition.”

This directly references nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which have experienced recent military takeovers and are currently suspended from some ECOWAS political bodies.

Their political instability often creates governance gaps that can be exploited by illicit financial actors, making their inclusion in AML/CFT efforts crucial for regional security, even amidst political differences.

Concluding her address, Professor Opoku-Agyemang called for unwavering unity and collaboration among member states. “Let this meeting serve not only as a forum for policy, but also as a platform for a partnership that will lead to a more united and resilient West Africa,” she urged.

Ghana, as a stable democracy and active member of ECOWAS, regularly hosts and participates in regional security and economic initiatives.

The Vice President’s address reaffirms Ghana’s commitment to playing a leading role in fostering collective action against threats that undermine the stability and prosperity of the West African sub-region.

The success of these efforts hinges on sustained political will, enhanced cross-border cooperation, and the rigorous implementation of international anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards across all member states.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

The President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu, is advocating for a robust legal framework to enshrine the recent government directive reinstating Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) in basic and secondary schools across the country.

His call comes amidst concerns that, without legislative backing, future administrations could once again sideline these vital community structures in education.

Rev. Owusu made the appeal while addressing the media during the opening of the “Teaching Together” workshop, a collaborative initiative between GNAT and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF), held at the GNAT Institute for Research and Industrial Relations in Abankro.

He emphasised GNAT’s long-standing advocacy for the revitalisation and institutionalisation of PTAs, which he described as “essential structures for promoting collaboration between parents and educators in managing schools and improving educational outcomes.”

The Ghana Education Service (GES) officially announced the full reinstatement of PTAs in all pre-tertiary schools on Thursday, July 17, 2025, following a directive from President John Dramani Mahama.

This directive marks a significant reversal of a 2019 policy under the previous administration, which effectively suspended PTAs and banned mandatory levies, replacing them with less influential “Parent Associations” (PAs) in the wake of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.

President Mahama had, in June 2025, described the sidelining of PTAs as “unacceptable,” promising their full restoration to the education system.

According to Rev. Owusu, the restoration of PTAs “effectively returns the management of schools to the community, and any reversal would be a setback to inclusive governance in education.”

He underscored the need for Parliament to “enact legislation that would offer legal protection to PTAs, preventing future governments from arbitrarily dismantling or sidelining them.”

This legislative measure, he argued, would provide the necessary stability and long-term assurance for PTAs to effectively contribute to school development.

PTAs in Ghana have historically played a crucial role in school governance, infrastructure development, and student welfare.

Their contributions have included providing teaching and learning materials, supporting school renovations, enforcing student discipline, and even organising extra classes.

Studies have shown that strong PTAs foster collaboration between parents, teachers, and the community, creating a more conducive learning environment.

The “Teaching Together” workshop, being held at the GNAT Institute, brought together over 300 educators from the Northern, Bono, Ahafo, and Upper West Regions.

It is the first batch of over 600 teachers scheduled for training under the project, which focuses on “teachers teaching teachers to teach,” enhancing pedagogical skills in areas like inclusive education, technology education, gender and culture, and classroom management.

Rev. Isaac Owusu also took the opportunity to call on the Minister of Finance, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, to prioritize education in fiscal policy.

He urged the Ministry to “ensure that teachers’ welfare is given the necessary attention.” He highlighted the persistent challenges faced by educators across Ghana, including inadequate resources, poor infrastructure, and delayed allowances, stating that these issues “negatively affect teacher motivation and educational delivery.”

Ghana’s education sector continues to grapple with these challenges. A 2022 Ghana Education Service (GES) report indicated that nearly 30% of basic schools in rural Ghana lack the required number of teachers, leading to issues like multigrade teaching.

Teacher motivation is often impacted by insufficient professional development opportunities and a perceived lack of adequate remuneration, despite recent efforts to improve conditions. GNAT, as the largest teacher union in Ghana with an estimated membership of over 200,000, plays a critical role in advocating for these systemic improvements

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.

Tags:  

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.

Thirty people have been injured after a vehicle drove into a crowd queuing to get into a nightclub in Los Angeles.

Seven were critically injured and six were in a serious condition after the crash in East Hollywood, the LA Fire Department (LAFD) said.

A line of mostly women were waiting to enter the Vermont Hollywood music venue when the car struck at 02:00 local time (09:00 GMT) on Saturday.

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the crash as an intentional act because the driver made a U-turn before ramming through the crowd, according to the BBC’s US partner CBS News.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) said that when officers arrived, bystanders had dragged the driver out of the Nissan Versa and were attacking him. One assailant had shot the driver.

The driver was taken to hospital for surgery, the LAPD added. His condition is unknown.

The vehicle drove through a taco stand, through a valet podium, and then into the crowd, said police.

Pictures from the scene show a grey car on a pavement with debris strewn on the ground, and a large police presence.

The nightclub was hosting a reggae/hip hop event at the time, according to its website.

A law enforcement official told CNN the driver is believed to have been intoxicated.

Police have described the suspect who opened fire during the melee before fleeing on foot as a bald Hispanic man. He was wearing a blue jersey and potentially armed with a silver-coloured revolver.

In a statement, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the incident a “heartbreaking tragedy”.

“The hearts of Angelenos are with all of the victims impacted this morning – a full investigation into what happened is under way,” she said.

The victims have all been taken to hospitals or trauma centres, LAFD Captain Adam VanGerpen told reporters at the scene.

“It was a very chaotic scene,” Capt VanGerpen said, adding that “a lot of bystanders by the club came out to help people”.

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.

Fally Ipupa headlines electrifying first night as Congo takes centre stage in global celebration of music and culture.

The rhythm of Congolese Rumba echoed through the capital on Wednesday as President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo officially opened the first-ever World Music and Tourism Festival in Kinshasa, setting the tone for a landmark event that merges culture, tourism, and diplomacy under the theme “The Rumba Route for Peace.”

The opening ceremony, held at the Central African Cultural and Arts Centre (CCAPAC), brought together cultural leaders, artists, international partners, and dignitaries from across the globe. President Tshisekedi thanked the Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili and his team at of UN Tourism for partnering with the Congolese government to bring the maiden edition of the festival to life, noting that the DRC would leverage this platform to promote peace, unity, and tourism development.

In his first official visit to the DRC, Pololikashvili addressed a packed hall of dignitaries, artists, cultural leaders and Congolese citizens. In a deeply personal and forward-looking speech, he noted that “it is a great honour to join you in Kinshasa, a city full of rhythm and energy.”

“Today, the DRC is making history. You are not only hosting a festival. You are sharing Congolese Rumba with the world. This music, recognised by UNESCO, tells the story of your people. It is a living link between Africa and the Americas.”

He also stressed the global significance of the festival. “Both music and tourism are instruments of peace. They break down barriers, foster understanding, and remind us of our common humanity. This festival shows what African tourism can be – inclusive, authentic, and proudly rooted in culture.”

The official opening was elevated by stirring choral performances and traditional Congolese music and dance, which brought vibrancy and local flavour to the ceremony in a rich cultural setting. The audience – made up of government officials, cultural leaders, international partners, and artists – was visibly moved by the authentic expressions of Congolese identity and artistry.

After the ceremony, President Tshisekedi led high-level dignitaries to tour the Cultural Village, an immersive exhibition space showcasing Congolese fashion, crafts, gastronomy and visual arts.

As the sun set, the celebration continued with a massive open-air concert headlined by Fally Ipupa at the People’s Palace, on the forecourt of the National Assembly. 

Drawing thousands of people, the show blended Rumba’s timeless melodies with urban rhythm and pop flair, bringing Kinshasa to life and marking a thrilling conclusion to Day 1. Fally’s performance – powerful, polished and deeply rooted in tradition – embodied the spirit of the festival: Congolese excellence with global resonance.

On Day 2 – Thursday, July 17

Day 2 of the World Music and Tourism Festival will focused on dialogue, innovation, and industry development at the Central African Cultural and Arts Centre (CCAPAC). Key highlights included “Transatlantic Rhythms for Peace,” a high-level roundtable exploring music as a tool for diplomacy between Africa, the Americas and beyond, as well as the “Fair Play” session, which tackled issues around copyright, artist rights, and equitable participation in the music tourism economy.

 A dedicated masterclass also provided artists and stakeholders with practical insights into intellectual property and sustainable business models.

Additional sessions explored music’s role in destination branding through the panel “Music at the Heart of Tourism,” and how digital platforms and youth-led innovation were reshaping the creative landscape in “From Vinyl to Viral.”

 A fireside chat with renowned Congolese musician Jean Goubald Kalala, moderated by Kojo Bentum-Williams, will offer a personal perspective on the evolution of Congolese Rumba. 

The World Music and Tourism Festival continues through Friday 18 July, with Kinshasa proudly at its centre – where the beat of Rumba becomes the heartbeat of peace.

President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans by his administration to introduce a regional quota system for recruitment into the country’s security services.

He made the announcement on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, during a durbar at Juaboso in the Western North Region as part of his nationwide “Thank You Tour.”

According to Mr Mahama, the proposed system is aimed at addressing longstanding imbalances in the recruitment process, which, he said, has historically favoured urban areas and individuals with political connections.

“We also promised to decentralise recruitment into the security services,” Mr Mahama told the gathering. “We’re waiting for financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance, and when we get it, every region is going to have a quota to send young people into the security services.”

He added that under the proposed arrangement, each region would be allocated a fixed number of slots, and any attempt to bypass the process with politically backed lists would not be tolerated.

“When that time comes, if your region has 100 slots and you go and bring a protocol list with 200 names, we will just throw that list away,” he said.

Mr Mahama’s remarks follow growing public concern over the transparency of recruitment processes within the country’s security services. In recent years, many young people—especially those from rural areas—have complained about being sidelined by so-called “protocol” arrangements, which they claim favour the well-connected.

He said the policy is intended to enhance fairness, ensure regional balance, and restore public trust in the operations of the security services.

Although financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance is still pending, Mr Mahama assured that once approval is received, the new recruitment model will be rolled out.

The Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, and other security agencies are expected to adopt the regional quota system upon implementation of the policy.

The NPP 2024 Parliamentary Candidate for the Aowin Constituency, Fuseini Yakubu Abanga (NPP Abanga), has openly attributed his electoral defeat to the active campaigning of his twin brother, who holds the position of Third National Vice Chairman of the NDC (Abanga NDC).

The revelation came to the limelight during an interview with Joy News at the NPP National Delegates Congress, highlighting the intricate and often volatile intersection of family ties and partisan politics in Ghana.

“In fact, I can even blame him for losing my seat in Aowin. I won,” NPP Abanga declared, revealing the depth of the political chasm between the siblings.

He confirmed, “Yes, he was behind. He came to campaign against me and politics.”

This personal account provides a rare glimpse into the dynamics of Ghanaian elections, where individual relationships can be strained by fierce party loyalties.

NPP Abanga painted a clear picture of the ideological divergence that pits him against his twin.

“In fact we don’t share the same ideology. He’s an NDC, I’m an NPP; there’s nothing NDC that I support. Same way, nothing MP that he will support, and for that matter, the chemistry is something which is there,” he stated.

The interview also touched upon the recent allegations against NDC Abanga regarding his alleged involvement in “galamsey” (illegal mining) activities, specifically backing fake anti-galamsey taskforces.

While NPP Abanga initially maintained that he “can’t defend any NDC person”, he later added, “Any NDC person is capable of doing anything, but to me, I’ve never seen him doing galamsey. I know him to be a legitimate man who holds concessions.”

This nuanced response suggests a personal belief in his brother’s legitimate business dealings, even amidst the political mudslinging.

Beyond Family Feuds: Internal Party Debates:

Beyond his personal electoral woes, NPP Abanga also weighed in on critical internal NPP discussions at the ongoing congress. He notably expressed strong opposition to the proposed constitutional amendment to raise the age limit for the National Youth Organiser position to 35.

“I don’t support the 35,” he asserted, explaining that he had engaged with youth organisers from all 275 constituencies and their deputies.

Despite falling within the proposed age range himself, NPP Abanga stressed the importance of democratic principles over personal gain.

“You don’t have to be selfish. I’m a political science student… I believe in democracy and I don’t think I should be so selfish that because it will favor Abanga. In this case, if that thing should come to it means I’m going to be the only contestant of which I should have been happy that I don’t I don’t have to be so selfish that I should think of myself of living members.”

This public stance on a contentious internal party matter demonstrates NPP Abanga’s broader commitment to what he perceives as democratic fairness within the NPP, even as he navigates the complexities of his political rivalry with his own twin.

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.

Speakers at a policy dialogue on pensions for Ghanaian creatives have called for greater commitment towards a workable scheme to secure the future of Ghanaian creatives to preserve Ghana’s heritage.

They indicated that ad hoc support schemes for creatives, particularly for pensions, left the sector unattractive for the young ones.

Several speakers urged the establishment of feasible and dependable schemes that would provide decent retirement conditions for Ghanaian creatives.

The dialogue was organised by the Centre for Research, Culture and Creative Arts of the School of Creative Arts (CeRCCA) of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW).

It aimed at bringing attention to the need for a sustainable pension scheme for Ghanaian creatives and a sustainable national apprenticeship programme.

The dialogue highlighted two technical research reports on a pension scheme for the creatives and a sustainable apprenticeship programme.

It was attended by representatives from the Musicians Association of Ghana (MUSIGA), Film Producers Association of Ghana (FIPAG) and the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO), among others.

A professor with the School of Creative Arts of UEW, Prof. Emmanuel Obed Acquah, speaking on the Developing Pension Scheme for Ghanaian Creatives and Artisans, said the current Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) Pension scheme did not fully address the welfare needs of creatives.

That, he indicated, was due to factors, including the volatility of incomes in the sector, the informal nature of the sector and policy gaps.

The situation, he said, had left many in the sector without dignified retirement welfare and support.

 Threat

Prof. Acquah said this posed a threat to the creative sector, which, he said, held great potential to contribute significantly to the national economy.

He called for a legal framework for creatives’ pension scheme and the establishment of an independent regulatory body to oversee the scheme for efficiency and sustainability.

The speakers and some dignitaries at the programme

The Vice-Chancellor of UEW, Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual, said the creative industry remained a powerhouse, but the lack of a comprehensive retirement security scheme made the industry unattractive and posed an existential threat to practitioners as they age or are incapacitated.  

“We have witnessed it. We have seen it. People who were doing very well all of a sudden, begging some people to pay their rent, and as a result of stress, within a few days, they just die off,” he stated. 

He disclosed that CeRCCA research proposed policy recommendations for a tailored guidance for creatives’ pension scheme to address these gaps, noting, “By securing our creatives, we secure Ghana’s soul”.

He commended the CeRCCA for the initiative and called for stronger collaboration with other organisations to create a significant impact on culture and creative art for livelihood empowerment, culture preservation and promotion.

The Dean of the School of Creative Arts, Prof. Evans Asante, said the topics had long occupied the periphery of national dialogue and policy discussion despite their immense contribution to national development.

Prof. Osuanyi Quaicoo Essel said Ghana needed a sustainable apprenticeship model that would address the gaps in training and employment. 

He said studies had confirmed that people with skills were easily employed, explaining that a robust national apprenticeship programme would help deal with the high unemployment problem.

The Chief Executive Officer of GHAMRO, Jackson Brefo, called on academia to collaborate with industry to equip up-and-coming creatives on creative laws and ethics.