Samuel Oppong Peprah addressing the audience

Correspondence from Ashanti Region

Samuel Oppong Peprah, owner of the sand-winning site at the center of the Bonteso clash, has spoken out to clarify the nature of his business and dispelled accusations of illegal mining. He maintains his operation is entirely legitimate and hopes recent scrutiny will lead to a peaceful resolution.

According to Mr. Peprah, the land was legally acquired years ago from a defunct mining company. “We bought the tailings, the waste material, from Bonte Gold Mines,” he explained, referencing documentation he says proves his claim. “There are no illegal mining pits here. We simply stockpile the sand and load it onto trucks for transport.”

He emphasized that his company’s activities are well-known and benefit the local community. “Most of the buildings around here were built with sand from our site,” he revealed. “We’ve had other task forces visit before, and they always acknowledge that we’re doing nothing wrong.”

Mr. Peprah believes the recent raid was a result of unfamiliarity with his operation. “This new task force was visiting our site for the first time, and I think they mistakenly suspected us of illegal mining,” he stated. “We tried to explain that we’re not involved in any mining activities, but they wouldn’t listen.”

He further revealed that he called upon the arrested assembly member to vouch for the legitimacy of the sand-winning business. “Our sole responsibility is to load the sand,” Mr. Peprah explained, adding that the chiefs even levy the operation for community development initiatives.

With recent visits from NDC executives, GNASSM representatives, and police commanders, Mr. Peprah hopes the truth is becoming clear. “Now that they have seen the site and understand our operation, I am hopeful we can finally have peace of mind to continue our business without fear of unjust accusations,” he concluded.

He further disclosed that the company was dedicated to operating legally and contributing to the well-being of the people.

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s upcoming documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below:

File photo of breast cancer symbol

President of the Breast Society of Ghana, Dr Josephine Nsaful, has disclosed that about 2,000 Ghanaians die from breast cancer each year, a figure she described as alarming.

Speaking at made the recent 6th Annual General and Scientific Forum, she stressed the need for early intervention and improved access to treatment facilities

“About 2,000 women die from breast cancer, which is a bit too much, about 60, 70% of cases in Ghana are advanced breast cancer stage three and stage four. And perhaps they maybe do not get the best as in early disease for a number of reasons.

Ashanti Region records 232 maternal deaths in six months

“You know, even physical or geographic accessibility, our health facilities are not equally distributed. They are not equally stocked in terms of infrastructure to treat breast cancer”, she noted.

Shortage of radiographers threaten disease detection in Ghana – Report

The Breast Society of Ghana is advocating for major improvements in healthcare access, including the decentralization of services and the establishment of more comprehensive screening and treatment programs across the country.

JKB/EB

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s upcoming documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below:

By Michael Foli Jackidy

Ho (V/R), Aug 23, GNA – The Ministry of Transport has held its 2025 Mid-Year Strategic Review in Ho to assess the progress of programmes and projects being undertaken by its agencies since the beginning of the year. 

The review, which brought together all agencies under the Ministry provided an opportunity for them to present updates on their two key priority projects assigned during earlier stakeholder consultations held in February this year. 

Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister of Transport, said the exercise was crucial to ensure accountability and delivery on promises made to Ghanaians.  

He noted that the presentations highlighted significant progress in critical sectors of transport—maritime, aviation, roads, and railways—stressing that Ghanaians would soon witness the commissioning of massive projects. 

“I am highly impressed with the level of work and commitment shown by our agencies. This review has reaffirmed my determination to continue holding each agency accountable, while also providing them the needed support to deliver on their mandate,” he stated. 

He said dredging works had commenced at the ports to restore depth and allow larger vessels to dock.  

He also announced that a long-standing backlog of uncleared containers had been completely addressed, ensuring smooth cargo movement. 

He said the Ministry was repurposing Terminal Two of Kotoka International Airport to decongest Terminal Three and better serve both domestic and international passengers.  

Additionally, construction of a nine-storey car park is underway to ease vehicular congestion at the airport. 

The Minister said over 266,000 backlog driver’s licence cards have been printed and distributed.  

The DVLA has also rolled out a 24-hour service at its Adenta office and is on course to commission 46 satellite offices across the country. 

At the Railways, the Western Line construction, from Takoradi Port to Huni Valley, has resumed with contractors returning to site, while the Tema-Mpakadan Railway line is nearing operational readiness.  

Plans are in place for three daily train trips on this corridor to ease congestion and boost trade. 

He said the Tema Shipyard, once run down, was being revitalised with four vessels currently undergoing maintenance and overhaul.  

The Minister described this as a sign of renewed capacity in shipbuilding and repair services. 

Mr. Nikpe emphasised that the collective vision was to make Ghana the hub of aviation, maritime, road, and rail transport in the West African sub-region. 

The Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, who joined the review, underscored the broader impact of transport on livelihoods. 

“Transport is more than just moving people and goods. It is a driver of economic growth, food security, and job creation. For us in the Volta Region, these improvements are not just infrastructure projects—they are lifelines that connect our farmers, traders, and communities to greater opportunities,” he said. 

He reiterated the need to build an inclusive transport system that leaves no community behind and directly supports Ghana’s broader development agenda.  

GNA 

Edited By: Maxwell Awumah/Christian Akorlie  

Accra, Aug. 22, GNA – Fidelity Bank Ghana has certified 892 agents under its 2025 Agent Certification and Engagement Programme held across six regions. 

The initiative aimed to equip agents with essential knowledge and skills to enhance service delivery, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance in line with the Bank’s financial inclusion goals. 

Conducted between June and August, the programme included a certification workshop for “Bronze-tier” agents and engagement sessions for “Top-tier” agents.  

A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency described agents as “crucial touchpoints for financial services in both urban and remote communities.” 

Participants received training in Operational Risk, Compliance, Physical Security, and Agency Quality Assurance, after which they were examined and awarded certificates. 

Godfred Attafuah, Divisional Director of Retail Banking, described the agents as the “backbone” of the Bank’s financial inclusion strategy. 

“This certification programme is a testament to our commitment to not only empower our agents but also to ensure a secure and reliable banking experience for every Ghanaian, regardless of their location.  

“It’s about building trust and great customer experience every transaction,” he said. 

The agents were also briefed on upcoming strategic improvements within the Agency Banking Department, aimed at improving service delivery and agent support. 

Dr David Okyere, Head of Agency Banking, described the programme as a partnership for the future. 

“By equipping our agents with advanced tools and training, we are enabling them to become even more efficient and effective. 

“The innovations we have shared, from mobile withdrawals to enhanced systems, show that we’re committed to giving our agents the very best resources to thrive and serve our customers better,” he stated. 

The programme took place in the Greater Accra, Ashanti, Bono, Western, Eastern, and Northern Regions and forms part of Fidelity Bank’s ongoing efforts to extend banking services to underserved communities. 

Fidelity Bank remains Ghana’s leading agent banking provider with a network of over 8,000 agents nationwide. 

GNA 

Edited by Kenneth Sackey  

Associate professor in International Trade and Director of Trade Growth Network, Professor Evans Akwasi Gyasi, has stressed that infrastructure is crucial for the success of the government’s 24-hour economy policy.

Speaking on Prime Morning’s News Flash, he described it as unfortunate that such a critical issue is being discussed at this stage, considering that infrastructure remains the foundation for the policy to succeed. He, however, noted that the government is only eight months old and cannot be entirely blamed, adding that it is commendable that steps have been taken swiftly.

“The good thing is, they have acted swiftly, and I think the issues around mobilization have been resolved. Funds have been released, and we hope this will be the last of it so contractors do not abandon projects. Money must be released on time so passengers do not suffer for the negligence of those who ought to act in the nation’s interest,” he remarked.

Addressing why successive governments often abandon road projects started by their predecessors, Prof. Gyasi attributed the problem to a lack of transparency. He explained that some projects are handled in secrecy even though the public funds them.

“NDC will come, NPP will come and go, but these roads are for us, the Ghanaian people. If there are no secrets and we know where the money is coming from, whether it is NDC or NPP, the roads should continue,” he stated.

Citing the 2016 transition when contractors were asked to halt projects for review, he noted that some contractors waited two to three years without payment, a practice he says still persists, although not on the same scale.

Prof. Gyasi insisted that once contracts are awarded and value-for-money audits are conducted, contractors must deliver.

“Whether there is a new government or not, contractors must do their jobs, and funds should be released according to agreed timelines established before contracts are signed,” he emphasized.

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By Albert Oppong-Ansah  

Accra, Aug. 16, GNA – The Catholic Archbishop of Accra has urged President John Mahama to use his executive powers to bring an end to illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. 

Most Reverend John Bonaventure Kwofie described galamsey as a “devilish business” that continues to destroy human lives, farmlands and water bodies across the country.  

The Archbishop made the call in a homily during a Eucharistic celebration to mark the Feast of the Assumption of Mary at the Christ the King Parish in Accra. 

Most Rev. Bonaventure said the rising number of deaths linked to the practice required urgent and decisive intervention from the highest office. 

He recalled that as far back as the 1980s, the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference had actively campaigned against galamsey through peaceful marches and public advocacy.  

“Sadly, our persistent voices seemed to have fallen on deaf ears, as the practice continues with devastating consequences,” he said. 

Most Rev. Bonaventure stressed that while mining could contribute meaningfully to national development if done responsibly, the current scale of illegal mining was unsustainable and posed a direct threat to future generations. 

“We are pleading with the President to act. Enough lives have been lost, and the time has come to stop this destructive practice once and for all,” he added. 

Galamsey has been widely blamed for polluting major rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra and Offin, which serve as vital sources of drinking water for millions.  

Farmers in several affected regions have also reported losing farmlands to irresponsible mining activity. 

Although various governments have launched anti-galamsey campaigns, including the deployment of the military-led Operation Vanguard, the results have been limited, with the activity persisting despite arrests and equipment seizures. 

The Church’s call adds to ongoing appeals from civil society groups, traditional authorities and environmental advocates for stricter law enforcement and the promotion of alternative livelihoods for the youth. 

On August 6, eight individuals – including senior government officials and military personnel – died in a helicopter crash while on a mission to launch a new initiative against illegal mining in the Adansi Akrofuom area of the Ashanti Region. 

GNA 

Edited by Kenneth Sackey  

In a time when the music industry is shifting toward quick singles and viral moments, Ghanaian gospel powerhouse Obaapa Christy has taken a bold step in the opposite direction, delivering not just a song, but a full spiritual experience. 

Her 15th studio album, Odeneho (The Sovereign One), was released on July 31, 2025, and it’s already making waves across both gospel and secular circles.

But it wasn’t just the album that got people talking. It was the moment the world saw Obaapa Christy and Sarkodie, two giants from different ends of Ghana’s musical spectrum, come together on a track that is now being called a spiritual crossover, “Odeneho.”

“This was more than a feature. It was a testimony,” Sarkodie reacted to the collaboration.

The track is raw, reverent, and real. Sarkodie, known for his lyrical precision, opens up like never before, pouring out one of the most emotional verses of his career. According to him, this wasn’t just a studio job, it was a “bucket list achievement.”

“If you see how Sarkodie sang ‘Odeneho’ with such emotion,” Obaapa Christy shared, “you’d know he truly loves God. I’ve never seen him sing with so much feeling. God bless him.”

A short teaser of the music video has already gone viral, sparking a wave of curiosity and anticipation. Both artistes promise the full video is coming soon, and it’s set to be more than a visual; it’s a testimony.

Meanwhile, Odeneho is not just a collection of songs, it’s a spiritual journey. With 12 tracks that cover themes of hope, worship, thanksgiving, and personal breakthrough, the album feels like a modern-day psalm book.

Among the standout tracks is “No Weapon”, a soul-piercing message of resilience and spiritual warfare. The official video is slated for release on September 4, 2025, and fans are already calling it one of the most comforting gospel songs in recent memory.

Other powerful tracks include: “Gyae Su” ft. Brother Sammy – a cry of comfort; “Thank You Jesus” ft. Junior (Obaapa Christy’s 2nd Son) – a celebration of gratitude.; “Yesu Mo”, “Waye Yie Nwom Ni”, and “Omma Me Nte Nhwe” – solo works full of depth and fire among others.

A Night to Remember: The Official Launch:

The Alisa Hotel in Accra set the stage for a historic launch event. The red carpet was lined with celebrities, politicians, and spiritual leaders, a rare fusion of entertainment and ministry. 

Attendees included Kwabena Kwabena, Dr. Likee, Andy Dosty, former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Sammy Awuku, Kwame A Plus, loved ones and a host of pastors who filled the room with prayer and presence.

What was supposed to be a launch became a night of worship, testimonies, and heartfelt music, a true reflection of Obaapa Christy’s identity as both an artist and a minister.

Why An Album — and Why Now?

In an exclusive reflection, Obaapa Christy shared what makes this release so significant in an era dominated by singles and streaming stats:

“God gives me songs, in dreams, in worship, during church services, driving in a car, listening to other songs, even in silence. I’ve had songs sitting in the studio for years, waiting for the right time. I don’t want to serve snacks; I want to offer a full spiritual meal. That’s why I do albums.”

And that decision wasn’t just personal, it was spiritual. After her powerful collaboration with Prof. Kofi Abraham on “Wiase Mu Abrabo”, gospel legends began reaching out. Many asked her to help revive their classic songs, not for fame, but to keep the fire burning for future generations.

“They don’t want to be forgotten,” she said. “They want today’s youth to feel the power that moved crowds decades ago. I owe it to them.”

Prof. Kofi Abraham himself responded with deep admiration: “She’s not just singing. She’s preserving history. Gospel music is safe in her hands.”

More Than Music – A Ministry of Memory;

Obaapa Christy’s Odeneho is not just an album; it’s a bridge between generations, a movement that honours the past while pointing to the future. It reminds listeners that the gospel is not about trends, it’s about truth. And sometimes, truth sounds like worship, rap, drums, tears, or even silence.

From her early days with “Me Te Ase”, to this landmark 15th album, Rev. Obaapa Christy has carried one mission: to uplift souls and draw people closer to God.

“This is more than music. It’s ministry. It’s memory. It’s me answering my calling.” – Obaapa Christy

Now available on all digital streaming platforms! Stream or download Obaapa Christy’s new album ODENEHO today and be blessed by every song. May the good Lord/Allah pour His everlasting blessings upon you as you listen. 

Bookings, Interviews & Contact; PR Connie: 0241300662 / 0244962141 and for Foreign Programs contact (MD Nana Frankie): +491724161317. 

Watch Obaapa Christy and Sarkodie’s Odeneho below: 

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The Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Obuobia Darko-Opoku, has shared a heartfelt message of comfort with the families of the sixteen children who tragically perished in a road accident while returning home from a church program.

The accident occurred on Monday, July 28, along the Juaso-Nkawkaw stretch of the Accra-Kumasi Highway, as the children were returning from the annual gathering of the Saviour Church of Ghana, Obogu branch, in the Asante Akyem South Municipality.

As part of her birthday celebration, Madam Obuobia visited the bereaved families and the church community to commiserate with them, offering both words of encouragement and donations worth thousands of cedis.

The items included bags of foodstuffs and essential supplies.

In her message, she urged the grieving families not to lose faith in God or in the church despite the devastating loss.

“The Bible says that in all things we should give thanks. It didn’t say give thanks for some things, but in all things,” she reminded them.

Acknowledging the pain and questions the families may be grappling with, she added:

“I know this incident will challenge your faith. You’ll ask why, especially when these children were just returning from the presence of God after serving Him. But in all things, God has His ways and His timing.”

Madam Obuobia also shared her own personal struggles to strengthen the families’ faith:

“From January till date, I’ve known no peace. I’ve been tested in many ways. Yet, I go before God daily, asking for His strength and light. It is only His grace that keeps me standing.”

She encouraged the families to see this tragedy as a test of faith, she said.

“Take this incident as God testing your faith and waiting to see if you can stand the test of time. And I pray that the Lord gives you the strength to bear this huge loss.”

Her visit, marked by both compassion and generosity, left many comforted as she stood with the bereaved during their darkest hour.

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Chief of Staff Julius Debrah on Saturday, August 23, led the opening of the much-awaited 2025 JoySports Invitational Tournament with a 5km health walk through the streets of Legon.

He was joined by musician Kwabena Kwabena, the Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President, Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD), African Paralympic President Samson Deen, and several other dignitaries who participated in the walk ahead of the games.

The tournament, which officially opened at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, has drawn over 50 institutions competing across 15 sporting disciplines, cementing its place as a flagship event on Ghana’s corporate calendar.

The Chief of Staff also performed the ceremonial kickoff to signal the start of the football competition.

At the heart of the competition is football, but the stadium’s courts will also buzz with volleyball, basketball, lawn tennis, table tennis, draughts, chess, scrabble, and even e-sports, reflecting the tournament’s rich diversity.

Myjoyonline’s photojournalist, David Andoh captured these photos from the tournament.

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Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, 2024 flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)

Kwesi Botchwey Jnr, an aide to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has stated that the campaign team for former Vice President will not become complacent, despite a new poll that positions him as the frontrunner in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer race.

The comments follow the release of a Global Info Analytics survey on August 21, 2025, which indicates that Dr Bawumia leads the race to become the NPP’s presidential candidate for the 2028 general elections.

NPP Primaries: Kennedy Agyapong’s team reacts to GIA’s survey

According to the poll, Dr Bawumia garnered 52% of support among NPP delegates, while his closest competitor, former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, received 17%.

Speaking on Eyewitness News, on August 22, Botchwey Jnr acknowledged the poll’s findings but emphasised that the team is not getting “flattered or swollen-headed.”

NPP race: Bryan Acheampong’s camp reacts to Global Info Analytics poll

He views the results as a “call to action” and a form of positive feedback from the grassroots.

“We believe it’s a true reflection of what is happening on the ground. When you engage the delegates, they want a winnable candidate,” he said.

He added that the team will continue to intensify its efforts to increase the lead.

Other candidates received significantly less support in the poll: Dr. Bryan Acheampong polled 3%, former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum received 1%, and Kwabena Agyapong, Boakye Agyarko, and Addai Nimo each polled less than 1%.

VPO/EB

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s upcoming documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below:

Ghanaian screen icons Gloria Sarfo and Adjetey Anang have demonstrated their commitment to uplifting the Ghanaian community.

They took part in the launch of the RNAQ Foundation food banks in Madina and Odorkor, respectively, by serving hot meals to those in need.

This act of service highlights the power of celebrity influence when channeled toward positive social impact.

This initiative, spearheaded by Richard Nii Armah Quaye, founder of the RNAQ Foundation, is a direct response to the pressing issue of food insecurity in Ghana.

The food banks aim to provide free, nutritious meals to thousands of Ghanaians, embodying a vision where no one goes to bed hungry.

This commitment extends to supporting vulnerable populations, including homeless children, less privileged parents struggling to make ends meet, and individuals facing temporary food insecurity due to unforeseen circumstances.

The project’s core principle is rooted in the belief that access to basic necessities, such as food, is a fundamental human right.

During the launch of the event on August 1, 2025, held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, Mr. Quaye shared his vision and the driving force behind the RNAQ Foundation food bank. He pledged to sustain the Food Bank Project, committing 90 per cent of the dividends from his diverse business ventures to ensure its longevity and expansion across Ghana.

This financial commitment underscores the foundation’s dedication and the founder’s personal investment in its success.

The goal is not only to provide immediate relief but also to create a sustainable system that addresses the root causes of hunger and poverty.

The “One Celebrity, One Ladle” theme highlights the involvement of figures like Gloria Sarfo and Adjetey Anang and serves as a powerful symbol.

It’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness, when amplified by the reach and influence of public figures, can create a ripple effect of positive change. This initiative is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and the belief that everyone deserves a warm meal and a reason to smile.

It is a call to action, inviting others to join the movement and contribute to a future where food security is a reality for all Ghanaians.

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The International Transport Summit 2025, currently underway at the Moscow Situation Centre, has brought together more than 120 international delegates from 40 megacities across the CIS, Middle East, Asia, Africa and Latin America.

The high-level gathering features mayors, ministers of transport and digitalisation, leaders of technology and transport companies, independent experts, and representatives of academic and research institutions.

Among the speakers invited by the Moscow City Government was Mr John Aggrey, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana-Russia Center for Commerce and Relations, who delivered a presentation on “Industrial Competitiveness Through Efficient Transportation Systems for Economic and Social Growth.”

He stressed that robust and efficient transport systems are vital to driving competitiveness in Ghana’s manufacturing, agro-industries and service sectors, while ensuring the seamless movement of goods, services and people.

Showcasing Ghana’s strategic potential, Mr Aggrey highlighted the country’s favourable location, waterways and expanding economy as key assets for investment and partnerships.

His remarks generated considerable interest, sparking discussions among participants on future collaboration with Ghana. His contribution also reinforced the Ghana-Russia Centre’s role in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.

Madam Ziona Ayorkor, Head of Business Development and Innovations at the Ghana-Russia Centre, also addressed the summit, delivering a presentation on “Integrating Alternative Modes of Transport with Water Infrastructure.”

She underscored the importance of harnessing the Volta Lake for waterway transport as part of Ghana’s long-term transport development strategy.

Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry, Maxim Liksutov, commended the summit as a unique platform for knowledge-sharing and cooperation. “We are always open to collaboration and ready to share our achievements and promising developments with foreign partners, as well as to transfer experience in interaction between industrial and transport sectors,” he said.

Organised by Moscow’s Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure, together with the Department of Investment and Industrial Policy and the Tourism Committee, the International Transport Summit 2025 continues to serve as a hub for dialogue on the role of transport in shaping global economic growth and social development.

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