Tanzanian opposition Chadema party leader Tundu Lissu in court
The treason case against Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu has been postponed again to August 18, pending a district court’s order on whether the trial should be livestreamed or not when it begins at the High Court at a later date.
Magistrate Franco Kiswaga said during Tuesday’s mention of the case at the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court in Dar es Salaam that committal proceedings for the case to be formally shifted to the High Court would begin right after he has given the order based on a request brought up by the prosecution.
According to chief state prosecutor Nassoro Katuga, the request to bar livestreaming, which has been a popular aspect of the case’s preliminary proceedings, was part of the witness protection procedures being set up for the eagerly awaited trial.
But this argument was strongly challenged by Lissu, who is defending himself in the case where he faces a death sentence if found guilty.
He said that the move to prevent his case from being livestreamed once it goes to trial, after allowing it throughout the preliminary proceedings, would be tantamount to conducting the trial “in the dark so that the wider public doesn’t know what’s going on”.
The case, springing from Chadema’s demands for reforms in the electoral system to ensure the October election is conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner, has captured international attention in the run-up to Tanzania’s October 29 general election, amid concerns that it is politically motivated.
Lissu was arrested in early April as he led the reforms crusade and has been remanded in jail ever since, while the party was barred from participating in this or any other local election for the next five years.
His date at the Kisutu court on Wednesday was originally earmarked for the trial committal proceedings, but ended up marred by heated arguments between the accused and the state prosecutors over the livestreaming issue.
At the centre of the exchanges was an August 4 High Court ruling that gives prosecutors the go-ahead to set up comprehensive witness protection measures to protect the identities of witnesses during the trial.
Judge Hussein Mtembwa’s ruling was issued under Clause 194 of Tanzania’s Criminal Procedures Code, which touches on witness protection in cases that have a bearing on national or public security.
It will allow civilian witnesses of Tanzanian nationality to give testimony from behind a wooden screen along with non-disclosure in court of their names, addresses, whereabouts and other personal details that could reveal who they are.
The ruling also prohibits media outlets from publishing, broadcasting or disseminating witness details.
The Director of Public Prosecution, in its request submitted to the High Court, said it was based on “serious” concerns over the safety of some witnesses, their close relatives and associates if they were publicly identified, owing to the case involving a prominent political figure with a large following of extremist supporters.
It did not elaborate on that.
Prosecutors said that the High Court ruling also covered livestreaming of court proceedings, which Lissu, in his counter-argument, described as a “deliberately twisted” interpretation of the ruling’s provisions to force a secret trial.
“Nowhere in the ruling is it stated that television cameras should be switched off,” Lissu said. “It may provide room for witnesses to be given false names to protect them, but it doesn’t stop public access to the proceedings altogether. In essence, these measures are not to protect witnesses but to hide them. There is a difference. It is what I have been fearing all along, that the aim is to turn this trial into a kangaroo court and make a sham of the entire proceedings.”
Savannah Regional Health Director, Dr. John Ekow Otoo, has lamented the deficit of human resources in the region.
He made this known during the mid-year performance review meeting to evaluate the region’s activities for the first half of the year, themed “Management of Financial Resources for Building an Effective Health Care System for Improved Patient Outcomes.”
Speaking to the media after the meeting on Thursday, August 14, Dr. Otoo said that aside from community health nurses and general nurses, whose numbers are relatively adequate, all other categories of health workers remain in short supply.
He noted that the limited personnel available in the region often request reposting or transfers to other regions, creating a significant challenge for the health directorate.
“One of our key challenges is human resources. Currently, apart from the community nurses and the general nurses, where we seem to have relatively good numbers, all other sectors of health workers have a big deficit.
“Aside from that, the few that we have, many of them have worked in the region for quite a long time, and many are requesting to be transferred or reposted to other regions. As a region, we are doing our best to encourage the staff to stay with us and also encourage more health workers to come and help us,” he said.
The Savannah Regional Health Director further revealed that the directorate has initiated an incentive package for health workers to retain them in the region, including the renewal of their PINS and other benefits.
“One of the incentive nursing packages is the renewal of their PIN, and the information I have is that they have an arrangement with their nurses’ group for the group to renew for them, but unfortunately, it has not happened as planned.
“We are looking at how to do it, whether from the staff or the sector. It is one of the prerequisites, and we want to make sure we make it as efficient as possible so that we can have qualified health workers,” he said.
The convenor of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, Dr. Ken Ashigbey, has called for sweeping arrests and immediate investigations following an attack on the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) anti-galamsey taskforce in Bonteso, Ashanti Region.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Ashigbey commended the taskforce for standing their ground and pushing through the operation despite the hostility.
The taskforce came under attack on Wednesday after seizing an excavator from an illegal mining site near Manso Nkwanta.
The assailants, reportedly led by the local assembly member, pelted the team with stones in an attempt to prevent them from leaving the site.
The crowd, made up largely of community members, confronted the officers despite warning shots being fired to disperse them.
However, Dr. Ashigbey expressed outrage that such an intervention had to come from the IGP’s team, insisting that local authorities had failed in their duties.
“By now, the assemblyman should have been arrested, the District Chief Executive sacked, and the police commanders at the divisional, district, and regional levels interdicted.
“It is unacceptable that it took the IGP’s taskforce to carry out this operation when these local leaders should have acted long ago,” he stated.
Dr. Ashigbey maintained that traditional authorities complicit in illegal mining activities should also be arrested.
He urged law enforcement to trace the ownership of excavators and tipper trucks seized at illegal mining sites, using chassis numbers and import records to identify those responsible.
He recalled President John Mahama’s declaration of galamsey as a national emergency, urging him to go further.
“The President must declare a state of emergency in the area and immediately fish out all those involved,” he stressed.
He emphasised the gravity of the situation, lamenting the recent loss of lives, including government officials, in connection with illegal mining operations.
“We have reached a critical point, and this is no time for jokes. Look at the people we have lost: fathers, children, and husbands who were on their way to an event aimed at tackling galamsey. We are even still mourning, and this happens? This is abominable, and these people are not galamseyers but environmental criminals,” he said.
The attack on the taskforce has intensified calls for tougher measures against illegal mining, which continues to threaten Ghana’s environment, water bodies, and lives.
The Accra Circuit Court has refused bail for Wontumi TV presenter Akyenkwaa Nana Kofi Asare, who was arrested after making on-air comments linking former President John Mahama to the recent military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.
Kofi Asare was picked up by police on Tuesday, August 12, following the broadcast, which authorities say contained unsubstantiated allegations related to the August 6 crash.
The fatal incident, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofoum District of the Ashanti Region, has since sparked national mourning, and a state funeral is scheduled for Friday, August 15.
During Thursday’s court proceedings, the judge declined the defence team’s bail application, ordering that the accused be remanded into police custody pending further investigation.
Speaking to Citi News after the ruling, counsel for the accused, Enoch Anhwere Afoakwah, criticised the court’s decision, describing it as a miscarriage of justice.
Mr. Afoakwah further indicated that the legal team would challenge the ruling at the High Court.
play videoKwaku Dawuro presents the morning political show on Movement TV
Kwaku Dawuro presents The Morning Political Show on the Wontumi morning show.
Seated with his guests, they discussed some of the most topical political subjects of the week.
Together with his guests, they provided in-depth analysis of political stories making headlines today.
With its blend of expert analysis and engaging discussions, the programme, hosted in the widely spoken local dialect, Twi, brings together well-experienced guests and professionals to share their perspectives on the nation’s most pertinent political and social matters.
Additionally, the total value of cheques cleared increased by 30.97% to GH¢384.96 billion
The 2024 Financial Stability Review has revealed that the total value of internet banking transactions rose by 114.9% to GH¢212.44 billion, up from GH¢98.87 billion recorded in 2023.
Additionally, the total value of cheques cleared increased by 30.97% to GH¢384.96 billion in 2024, compared to GH¢293.93 billion in 2023.
MTN Ghana to temporarily suspend MoMo services on August 17
However, the volume of cheque transactions declined by 0.15% in 2024. The marginal drop under the Cheque Codeline Clearing (CCC) system indicates that fewer cheques are being written, but for higher amounts.
The Bank of Ghana attributed the growth of Ghana’s payments ecosystem to substantial expansion over the last decade.
“The significant growth is credited to an expansion of mobile money services, robust government support, enhanced regulatory frameworks, increased access to mobile phones, innovation, technological advancements, and an expansion of financial inclusion initiatives,” the report stated.
The total value of Ghana Interbank Settlement System (GIS) transactions increased by 78.12% in 2024 to GH¢6.13 trillion, from GH¢3.44 trillion in 2023, despite a 6.07% drop in volumes.
Bank of Ghana approves credit scoring to strengthen Ghana’s financial sector
The Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems (GhIPSS) Instant Pay (GIP), a real-time interoperable account-to-account credit transfer service, also recorded significant growth in 2024.
The total volume of GIP transactions was 161,158,052, valued at GH¢355.07 billion, compared to 115,368,700 transactions valued at GH¢120.10 billion in 2023.
Kumawood Star Mercy Asiedu Turns Heads with Bold Blonde Hairstyle
News Hub Creator1h
Ghanaian Kumawood actress Mercy Asiedu has set social media abuzz with her striking new look. The screen diva recently stepped out sporting a fresh blonde hairstyle, marking a dramatic departure from her usual looks. Shared on her Instagram page, the bold transformation has drawn admiration from fans and followers, who have flooded her comments with compliments. Known for her versatility in both fashion and acting, Asiedu continues to keep her audience captivated with her style evolution.
The actress, popularly known as Oheneyere Mercy Asiedu, showcased her blonde locks in a recent public appearance, pairing the vibrant hair with a chic outfit. Her glamorous look has sparked conversations about her confidence and willingness to experiment with different aesthetics. Fans have praised her for embracing change and setting new beauty trends in the Ghanaian entertainment scene. The post quickly gained traction, with many applauding her for staying fresh and fashionable.
Mercy Asiedu’s new hairstyle adds to her long list of memorable looks over the years. As a prominent figure in Kumawood, she has consistently used her platform to inspire fans with her fashion choices. This latest transformation reinforces her reputation as a trendsetter, unafraid to take risks with her image. Fellow celebrities and fashion enthusiasts have also joined in celebrating her bold move, further cementing her influence in the industry.
As the buzz around her blonde hair continues, fans are eager to see what other surprises Mercy Asiedu has in store. Whether on-screen or off, she remains a dynamic personality who keeps reinventing herself. Her latest style statement proves once again why she remains one of Ghana’s most beloved actresses, effortlessly blending talent with undeniable charisma.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called on President Mahama to wage an uncompromising war against illegal mining, declaring Ghana’s August 6 helicopter crash which killed eight officials en route to an anti-galamsey operation must catalyze decisive action.
“These deaths cannot be in vain. Redirect the pain into eradicating galamsey forever,” the Asantehene urged during an Ashanti Regional Security Council visit.
The victims included Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and senior security figures. Their aircraft crashed in the Ashanti Region while headed to address illegal mining operations poisoning rivers and farmlands.
The monarch’s demand amplifies years of warnings about galamsey’s environmental devastation.
His intervention comes as critics like former NPP chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (“COKA”) accuse the Mahama administration of losing control: “Our water bodies are irreversibly polluted,” he charged, hinting at government complicity in the crisis.
No timeline for new measures was announced, but Otumfuo’s appeal raises pressure on the state to honor the victims’ mission. With the crash exposing the perils of combating illegal mining, his words strike at Ghana’s conscience: “Make this tragedy the turning point.”
Nurudeen Sulemana, the deceased hanging on the tree
The lifeless body of a 24-year-old man has been found hanging on a mango tree in the bush at Gyaekontabuo near Kunsu in the Ashanti Region.
Nurudeen Sulemana, the deceased, was found around 8:43am on August 9, 2025 on the tree by some people in the area, who reported the case to the police.
According to a police report, the body was found hanging on the tree with a yellow nylon rope wearing light pink shirt on yellow trousers with the tongue protruding.
There were no marks of violence on the body to show foul play. The police could not tell if the man committed suicide or he was killed and hanged on the tree.
“On 09/08/2025 at 0935 hours, complainant Foster Akpalu, the Assemblyman of Kunsu Electoral Area, came to Mankranso Police Station and reported that on same day at about 0843 hours, one Nurudeen Sulemana aged about 24, was found hanging on a mango tree in the bush at Gyaekontabuo near Kunsu.
“Police proceeded to the scene which was about 2 kilometers from Gyaekontabuo village and found the body of the deceased hanging on a branch of a mango tree with a yellow nylon rope wearing light pink shirt on yellow trousers with the tongue protruding.
“The body was carefully inspected and no marks of assault were found, same was removed and sent to Mankranso Government Hospital where it was pronounced dead by the Medical Officer on duty,” a police report said.
The police statement, which has been sighted by the DAILY GUIDE, disclosed that the body has since been deposited at Plus Lab Mortuary, Mankranso for preservation and autopsy. Police are investigating the case.
Disregard any mischievous and malicious publication that wickedly seeks to suggest a false declaration of support for any candidate in the impending NPP primaries by Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, as circulated on some online portals.
We remain firmly in the race, working with dignity to restore the party’s reputation and build hope among members as we work toward capturing power in the 2028 general election.
Fidelity Bank has reintroduced its popular “Sika Bumm” promo, with the latest iteration dubbed “Sika Bumm Reloaded” aimed at empowering customers to build a savings culture while also encouraging financial stability.
The Sika Bumm Reloaded campaign offers a refreshed prize pool with enhanced rewards, designed to reward customers for their loyalty and to help them grow their savings.
A statement issued by the bank said that with this campaign, Fidelity Bank aims to make saving money rewarding and enjoyable. Customers can participate by opening or maintaining any savings or current account and performing qualifying transactions.
The qualifying transactions include deposits, account-to-wallet transfers, mobile money transactions, and bill payments, among others.
For every GHS 500 saved and maintained in a customer’s account, the customer earns one life point.
It was explained that the promo framework is points-based, with life points accrued translating into opportunities to win prizes. The Managing Director of Fidelity Bank, Julian Opuni, expressed his excitement about the campaign, noting that it reflects the bank’s commitment to rewarding customers for their loyalty.
He said the Sika Bumm Reloaded promo is designed to encourage customers to cultivate a habit of saving, which can truly transform their financial well-being.
Mr. Opuni added that, “We believe that our customers deserve to be rewarded for their prudent financial behaviour, and this campaign is our way of showing appreciation. The more our customers save, the more they stand to win.”
Prizes for the campaign include cash rewards, smartphones, data, fuel coupons, and shopping vouchers. Winners will be selected through transparent draws, which will be conducted at various intervals during the campaign period.
Fidelity Bank will notify winners via SMS and phone calls, urging customers to be vigilant about fraud and to only respond to official communications from the bank.
The campaign is expected to run for 6 months, and Fidelity Bank has encouraged both existing and new customers to participate and enjoy the benefits of saving while standing a chance to win exciting prizes.
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.
Shatta Wale (L) was discussed during Stonebwoy’s (R) interview
Ghanaian Dancehall artiste Stonebwoy sat down with Jamaican podcast The Fix, where he discussed Afro-Dancehall, his decision to pursue education, and his controversial feud with colleague Shatta Wale.
In addition to commenting on the recent tussle between Shatta Wale and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), which has been trending, Stonebwoy was also captured in viral clips from the interview, addressing other topics related to Shatta Wale.
Stonebwoy-1996120″>over the seizure of a Lamborghini
Here are 5 shots Stonebwoy took at Shatta Wale during the full 58-minute interview:
He declared himself the only Afro-Dancehall king that makes sense
Stonebwoy boldly declared himself the undisputed king of Afro-dancehall, dismissing any competition.
“In Africa, the only revered kingship is the ethnic kingship. There is the King of the Ashanti, the King of the Ewes, and all that.
“But in music, I am a king in my own right. The other man can be a king in his own right. The debate can go on and on, but I am the only Afro-Dancehall King that makes sense. Nobody can touch me; just like the world boss, I am the 1Gad.
Winning every beef
Addressing their years-long rivalry, Stonebwoy claimed he has consistently outshone Shatta Wale in their musical clashes.
“Nobody can beef me. He is beefing himself. It is not reaching me yet. If it comes to musical beefs, I have been winning beefs with him. We had a musical clash some years back; I won that; we had another clash, and I also won that. So I’m looking forward to beating him in another clash.
Accolades over hype
Stonebwoy also took a swipe at Shatta Wale’s perceived lack of international recognition, contrasting it with his own achievements.
“When it comes to the recognition and accolades to prove it, I have won the award for the Best Reggae/Dancehall artiste of my country 9 times in a row. I own that kingship. I won the BETs when no dancehall artiste in my country had gotten close.”
“Check your weight before you box me” – Stonebwoy jabs Shatta
In a thinly veiled metaphor, Stonebwoy suggested Shatta Wale isn’t on his level. Adding that Shatta Wale’s career achievements don’t measure up to his own
“If you want to box, before you enter the ring, you must check if your opponent is in the same weight class. So, for me, it is not about hype size; it’s about the weight. When the weight matches, then we can box,” he said.
Lamborghini Seizure: “settings man” exposed
Stonebwoy also weighed in on the recent seizure of Shatta Wale’s Lamborghini Urus by Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), linking it to an alleged fraud investigation.
He recalled previously calling Shatta Wale a “settings man,” a term implying someone who fabricates a lavish lifestyle.
“See, we know the industry; trust me, we know the industry, and we know how it’s set. If you look at it, if you flash it, it’s not everybody who can really have it or afford it, but believe me, everybody wants to be like that; you know, many people want to really flash it and all of that, so that news that is coming out,” he said.
Watch the video below:
ID/EB
Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s yet-to-air documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below:
play videoRashid Tanko-Computer is Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the NDC
The Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Rashid Tanko-Computer, has disclosed that the late Minister of Defence, spent the morning of the fatal helicopter crash leading a virtual meeting on strategies ahead of Akwatia by-elections.
Speaking on Joy News PM Express and monitored by GhanaWeb on Thursday, August 14, 2025, he recounted the last meeting which began around 7:45 am.
The Acting CEO of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) said the meeting focused on the upcoming by-election scheduled for September 2, 2025.
“That morning we had this meeting around 7:45 am and he was giving us strategies on how to go about the elections in Akwatia. My colleague Mahdi was to take the lead and I was to stay back to do certain things with the EC and all that… (sic). He gave us all this strategy because Dr Omane Boamah was a master planner. All these things that we’re doing, he was behind it. He would say, ‘You sit down, put pen and paper together, map up the strategy’ and then say ‘you go and handle it'”, he noted.
Bodies of helicopter crash victims were too heated for body bags – CDS
He further disclosed none of the executives were aware he was scheduled to travel later in the morning.
“So that morning we had finished all these things and were to report back to him by evening. He didn’t tell us that he was traveling. None of us knew he was going to travel,” he added.
Dr Omane Boamah was one of the 8 persons who perished in a fatal helicopter crash at Sikaman on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
Son of late NDC Vice Chair urges President Mahama to take action against galamsey
A state burial will be held at the Black Star Square in Accra to honour the 8 heroes.
JKB/VPO
He was a fine man of few words’ – NADMO staff remembers Samuel Aboagye
Wilful defaulter is a borrower who deliberately breaks loan agreements
People in Ghana who deliberately refuse to repay loans, even when they have the means to do so, could soon be banned from borrowing from any licensed bank or financial institution for up to five years.
According to new rules from the Bank of Ghana (BoG), all banks and other regulated lenders will be required to publish the names of such defaulters twice a year, on June 30 and December 31, in at least two national newspapers and on their official websites, using a format provided by the BoG.
The central bank says the move is aimed at tackling the growing problem of bad loans, which threaten the profitability and stability of the banking sector.
Bank of Ghana approves credit scoring to strengthen Ghana’s financial sector
All financial institutions have already been notified, and the BoG has released public guidelines explaining the policy.
A wilful defaulter is defined as a borrower who deliberately breaks loan agreements. This includes refusing to repay despite having the means using the loan for purposes other than those agreed upon or obtaining it through fake documents or false collateral.
Once the BoG approves a write-off of an unpaid loan, the borrower will be barred from taking another loan from any regulated bank for a period equal to twice the time between the write-off approval and the date the debt is finally settled.
If a person is listed as a wilful defaulter twice or more within a 10-year period, they will automatically face a five-year borrowing ban or longer if the calculated period exceeds five years.
DR/MA
How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience
The Premier League, a global footballing juggernaut, is not only defined by its world-class players but also by the managers who orchestrate the action from the sidelines.
While tactical acumen and leadership are paramount in management, many of these coaches bring a wealth of experience from their own time on the pitch.
The playing careers of the top 10 2025-26 Premier League managers vary widely—from those who never played professionally to Champions League winners and international stars.
This article ranks top 10 current Premier League managers based on the impact of their playing careers, assessing factors like the level of competition, appearances, accolades, and their influence on the game as players.
From grassroots journeymen to trophy-laden elites, we explore how their time as players shaped their paths to the Premier League dugout.
4 Chelsea players who are eligible to play for the Black Stars
10. David Moyes (Everton)
David Moyes was a hard-hitting centre-back who began his career at Celtic, winning the Scottish league in 1982 with 24 appearances.
He moved to England in 1983, played for clubs like Bristol City and Preston, where he made 105 appearances for Dunfermline before ending his career. Moyes’ top-flight experience and a domestic title gave him a semi-solid playing resume, though his impact was not at the elite level.
Oliver Glasner was a one-club man as a defender for SV Ried in Austria, making 572 appearances.
He helped Ried win promotion to the Austrian Bundesliga in 1995 and 2005 and secured two Austrian Cups (1998, 2011). A brain hemorrhage from a concussion forced his retirement, but his longevity and domestic success puts him in this list.
8. Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth)
He played a right-back, spent 14 years in the Spanish La Liga playing for Athletic Bilbao, making 508 appearances. He places fourth in the club’s all-time list of most capped players.
Iraola ended his career with a season at New York City FC, retiring in 2016. His long, high-level career boosts his ranking.
7. Keith Andrews (Brentford)
New Brentford manager Keith Andrews says he is “not fazed” by the “enormity” of his new job. pic.twitter.com/TaK5P5shhZ
He was a midfielder who played across all four English professional leagues, totaling 205 Championship appearances and 85 Premier League games for clubs like Wolves, Blackburn, and West Brom.
He won the League Two Player of the Year award in 2008 with MK Dons and played at Euro 2012 with Ireland. Andrews’ top-flight and international experience elevate his impact.
6. Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)
The Spanish international was a central midfielder who came through Barcelona’s youth academy.
After spells at PSG, Rangers (where he won a Scottish title), and Real Sociedad, he shone at Everton (2005–2011) and Arsenal (2011–2016), winning two FA Cups.
Arteta’s 150+ Premier League appearances and consistent performances at top clubs mark him as a significant player.
2025 World Athletics Championships: The legends, the rising threats, and the battles fans will see in Tokyo
5. Enzo Maresca (Chelsea)
Nominated for the 2025 Men’s Team Coach of the Year Trophy
The Italian had an impressive playing career as a midfielder. Enzo won the Serie A with Juventus in 2001-02 and excelled at Sevilla, securing two UEFA Cups, a UEFA Super Cup, a Copa del Rey, and a Spanish Super Cup.
Maresca also played for Olympiacos, Malaga, Sampdoria, Palermo, and Hellas Verona, retiring in 2017. His trophy haul and top-tier experience are substantial.
4. Scott Parker (Burnley)
Scott Parker, Burnley’s manager, was a reliable midfielder who played for London clubs like Charlton, Chelsea, West Ham, Tottenham, Fulham and Newcastle United.
With 18 England caps and 300+ Premier League appearances, Parker was a consistent performer, though his trophy cabinet is light, with no major honors.
His high-level longevity and international career place him high on this list.
3. Nuno Espirito Santo (Nottingham Forest)
Nuno Espirito Santo, Nottingham Forest’s manager, is the only goalkeeper on this list and one of the most decorated.
He won four Portuguese league titles with Porto, including their 2003-04 Champions League triumph (as an unused substitute) and the 2002-03 UEFA Cup.
Nuno also claimed the 2002 Spanish Cup with Deportivo La Coruna. His elite-level success gives him a strong ranking.
2. Ruben Amorim (Manchester United)
Ruben Amorim, Manchester United’s manager, was a midfielder who enjoyed a successful career at Benfica, where he won six Portuguese league titles and six League Cups, plus one with Braga on loan.
Making over 100 appearances for both Benfica and Belenenses, Amorim also played in the Champions League and spent a year in Qatar before retiring. His extensive domestic success secures his high ranking.
1. Pep Guardiola (Manchester City)
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, tops this list as a defensive midfielder who was the linchpin of Johan Cruyff’s Barcelona “Dream Team.”
He won four consecutive La Liga titles, the 1992 European Cup, and other domestic honors, making 263 La Liga appearances.
Known as an extension of Cruyff’s philosophy, Guardiola’s later stints at Roma and other clubs added to his legacy. His elite-level impact and trophy haul make him the standout coach on his list.
ALL/JE
Watch the key highlights from the 2025 GFA Ordinary Congress
The African Union (AU) has called for a permanent ceasefire and the implementation of the revitalised peace accord in South Sudan.
On Tuesday, the AU called for a permanent ceasefire and the complete implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, after a three-day mission to the capital, Juba.
The delegation, comprising representatives of the AU Peace and Security Council’s 15 members, met with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and other political leaders to discuss the ongoing implementation of the peace accord and the December 2026 elections, which will mark the end of the transition period in the conflict-torn nation.
“The council stressed the need to ensure the full implementation of the remaining tasks in the revitalised agreement, and called for a permanent ceasefire and protection of civilians and humanitarian workers,” the AUPSC said in a statement.
The council commended the commitment of South Sudanese political leaders to completing the transition process and called for “an inclusive political high-level dialogue among the political leaders for an amicable resolution of the current political situation in the country”.
The AUPSC reaffirmed its continued dedication to supporting South Sudan in ending the conflict and ensuring the transition period is successfully completed, and expressed its unwavering support for South Sudan in organising the December 2026 elections.
According to the AU, the field mission was undertaken as an expression of solidarity with the South Sudanese people. The delegation’s visit coincided with an intensification of regional diplomatic efforts to bolster the fragile revitalised peace deal.
Since gaining independence in 2011 following decades of struggle and a protracted peace process, South Sudan has navigated a precarious path between restoring peace and enduring instability. This was most notably seen in 2013 and, more recently, in 2016, when widespread conflict triggered the initiation of internal peace processes.
Have you noticed a rise in suspicious messages lately? Maybe it’s a strange SMS claiming to be from Ghana Post asking you to rebook a delivery, or a supposed “bank” requesting your card details—even though you’ve never opened an account with them. These aren’t isolated incidents. They’re signs of a broader and growing threat: mobile device hacking.
Today, smartphones are more than just communication tools. They are powerful mini-computers—holding our emails, banking apps, social media, company data, and sensitive files. In Ghana, mobile usage is soaring, with smartphones becoming the go-to device for both work and personal use. That’s exactly why cybercriminals are shifting focus—from traditional computer attacks to mobile phone scams.
Why it matters for business leaders
Whether your employees use company-issued phones or personal devices for work (BYOD), each smartphone connected to your organisation presents a potential gateway for cyberattacks. One wrong click, one missed update, one weak PIN—and hackers could gain access to emails, corporate data, financial records, or worse. For business leaders, the stakes are even higher. Your organisation’s cybersecurity is only as strong as its most vulnerable device. That’s why protecting mobile phones is no longer optional—it’s essential.
Start with awareness – Educate your entire team
In Ghana, where many small and mid-sized businesses rely on mobile-first operations, education must be the first line of defence. Your staff doesn’t need to be cybersecurity experts, but they must know how to spot red flags like suspicious links, fake app updates, and social engineering scams. The solution? Regular, easy-to-understand mobile security training for everyone—from interns to executives. Talk about current threats, like recent iOS vulnerabilities or Android malware campaigns, in plain language. Use WhatsApp groups, internal newsletters, or even short video explainers to make it digestible.
Tech giants like Apple have already responded to global threats by introducing advanced features like “Lockdown Mode,” which restricts access to high-risk features on iPhones. While this may be designed for public figures and journalists, it’s still worth educating your team on such options and encouraging quick adoption of security updates when released.
Pair education with strong mobile security tools
Education is critical, but it’s not enough on its own. Businesses must also invest in the right tools and policies to secure mobile devices across the organisation.
Mobile Device Management (MDM) platforms allow businesses to control how devices access corporate data, regardless of whether it’s an Android or iPhone. You can:
Enforce stronger password or PIN policies (e.g., requiring a 6- or 8-digit code).
Restrict access to sensitive apps.
Push system updates remotely.
Control which apps employees can install.
Add Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to key systems like email, CRM, and cloud platforms, and you create another layer of verification that’s difficult for hackers to bypass.
In the event a phone is lost or stolen—common in busy places like Circle, Kejetia, or even office car parks—remote wiping capabilities can prevent data from falling into the wrong hands.
Small team? Big risks still apply
Whether you’re a global logistics firm with teams across Accra and Tema, or a startup with ten staff operating from a shared space in East Legon, the risks are the same. One compromised phone can expose sensitive company documents, financial information, or client data. That’s why mobile security should never be considered an “IT-only” issue. It should be part of company culture—just like punctuality or professionalism.
Final word – Security starts in every pocket
In today’s digital landscape, your employees’ smartphones are as critical to protect as your company servers. And in Ghana, where mobile penetration is among the highest in Africa, this challenge is urgent and real. So, don’t wait for a data breach to take action. Build awareness, invest in smart technology, and treat mobile security as a team-wide responsibility. Because in the end, cybersecurity isn’t just about firewalls or antivirus software—it’s about people, habits, and the devices we carry every day.
>>> The writer, Allen OLAYIWOLA, is a seasoned cloud architect and systems administrator with expertise in leading technical teams to create innovative platforms. As CTO of eSolutions Consulting, he has spearheaded major projects like the Office 365 rollout for Ghana’s government and infrastructure deployment for the Ghana Revenue Authority.
Recognized for his strategic use of emerging technologies, Allen has led his team to multiple Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, solidifying his role as a key leader in tech-driven business transformation. If you’d like to explore how these strategies can help your organization thrive, reach out to discuss tailored solutions for your business growth journey. He can be reached via [email protected] and or 0540123034
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid tribute to Nana Konadu Yiadom III, the 14th Queen Mother of the Asante Kingdom, describing her as “an adorable queen of grace and wisdom.”
On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, a delegation of chiefs and elders from the Manhyia Palace, led on behalf of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, formally informed the former President of the Queen Mother’s passing.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III, a fellow member of the Oyoko clan, served as Asantehemaa for eight years, during which she was widely admired for her dedication to the traditions and values of the Asante Kingdom.
In his tribute, Mr. Akufo-Addo recalled their close personal friendship. “Anytime I was in Kumasi, I did not hesitate to seize the opportunity to visit her to convey my regards,” he said.
The former President extended condolences to the Asantehene and the people of Asanteman, praying for her soul to rest peacefully “in the Bosom of the Almighty, until the Last Day of the Resurrection.”
MTN Ghana has been officially announced as the headline sponsor for Ghana’s four national football teams – the Black Stars, Black Queens, Black Satellites, and Black Starlets – in a landmark partnership that marks renewed corporate backing for Ghana football.
The announcement came from MTN Ghana CEO Stephen Blewett, who expressed pride in partnering with the country’s most celebrated sporting brand during the partnership reveal ceremony on Thursday, August 14, 2025, in Accra.
The deal spans the senior men’s team (Black Stars), senior women’s team (Black Queens), the under-20 men’s team (Black Satellites), and the under-17 men’s team (Black Starlets).
Blewett explained that MTN’s decision stems from its long-standing commitment to sports development in Ghana and its belief in football’s power to unite the nation.
“Football is a passion that connects the whole country, and MTN is proud to be part of the journey to take our teams to greater heights,” he noted, stressing that the partnership goes beyond funding to inspiring future generations of Ghanaian footballers.
The sponsorship is expected to deliver crucial financial and logistical support to the teams as they gear up for tournaments and qualifiers.
Ghana Football Association President Kurt Okraku hailed the move as a “timely boost” that will enhance their competitiveness on both continental and global fronts.
Coming at a pivotal moment for Ghanaian football’s revival, this deal mirrors a growing trend of major brands investing in sports to enhance corporate social responsibility and visibility.
With MTN now joining the ranks of top global companies supporting African sports, fans will be hoping this collaboration turns into tangible success for all four national teams.
Akyenkwaa Nana Kofi Asare, a presenter with Wontumi TV, has been arrested by suspected national security operatives in Ejisu, Ashanti Region, following controversial comments made during a live broadcast.
According to Yen, the arrest stems from statements Asare made on-air, alleging that former President John Dramani Mahama was connected to the tragic Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash that occurred on August 6, 2025. The fatal crash, involving a military Harbin Z-9 helicopter, claimed eight lives in Adansi Akrofuom, sparking nationwide grief and calls for investigations.
Following the broadcast, Wontumi TV issued a formal statement distancing itself from the presenter’s claims. The station described the remarks as “false and without basis” and offered an unreserved apology to Mr. Mahama, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), and the Ghanaian public. Management further stressed that the views expressed by Asare were his personal opinions and not representative of the media outlet’s editorial position.
Eyewitness accounts confirm that Asare was picked up by plain-clothed operatives believed to be from national security, and transported to an undisclosed location before making his first court appearance. Details of the charges remain unclear, but legal experts suggest that the allegations could fall under laws relating to the dissemination of false information, defamation, and potentially incitement.
The incident has reignited debates about media ethics, freedom of speech, and the responsibility of broadcasters to fact-check sensitive information before airing it. Supporters of Mr. Mahama have welcomed the swift action taken against the presenter, while others have raised concerns about press freedom and the possible chilling effect on journalists.
Meanwhile, the GAF has stated that investigations into the helicopter crash are ongoing, and no official cause or political link has been established. The military has urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could compromise the integrity of the process.
This case is expected to continue drawing public attention in the coming days as legal proceedings unfold.
A communicator for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwaku Owusu Banahene, has made controversial claims about the recent helicopter crash
He accused NPP members of sabotaging both the presidential jet and helicopter as part of a plot against President John Mahama
However, the government and the Ghana Armed Forces have yet to release any official report on the cause of the crash
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A communicator for the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kwaku Owusu Banahene, has made some wild claims about the recent helicopter crash that claimed eight Ghanaian lives.
According to Mr Banahene, the tragic helicopter crash was caused by some elements of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Kwaku Owusu Banahene, an NDC communicator, blames the NPP for the helicopter crash. Photo credit: Angel FM/Facebook & Getty Images. Source: UGC
Speaking on Accra-based Angel FM, the NDC communicator claimed that NPP members had poured acid on the helicopter and presidential jet in a deliberate ploy targeted at President John Mahama.
He said the NPP had set several traps for President Mahama since his return to office and urged his party and government to be extra vigilant.
“The presidential jet that has been taken to France for repairs is replete with multiple faults. Everywhere they check, there’s a problem. These NPP people have poured acid on the pipes, and they have all corroded. The presidential jet cannot be returned, and when the president uses his brother’s private jet too, they complain,” he said.
“You have no idea how many traps these people have set for the president. We must stay vigilant. This is why they are insisting that the president use the presidential jet, which is replete with faults,” he added.
Mr Banahene’s claims can best be described as speculative, as the government and the Ghana Armed Forces have yet to release any report on the cause of the tragic helicopter crash.
Watch the video below:
Victims of the helicopter crash
The helicopter crash occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Adansi Obuasi in the Ashanti Region.
The chopper, which carried five government officials and three crew members, was en route to Obuasi when contact was lost shortly after taking off from Accra at 9:12 a.m.
The victims included Ghana’s Defence Minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah; the Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Deputy National Security Coordinator Limuna Muniru; Former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Samuel Sarpong; and Former NDC Parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East, Samuel Aboagye.
The crew members who also lost their lives were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, urges the IGP to arrest NDC MP, Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, for making reckless comments about the helicopter crash. Photo credit: Facebook. Source: UGC
NPP urges IGP to arrest NDC MP
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that the General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to arrest Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, the Deputy Majority Chief Whip.
This followed after Mrs Cudjoe-Ghansah claimed that the military helicopter had exploded mid-air before falling to the ground.
Speaking to Okay FM on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Kodua Frimpong described the Deputy Majority Chief Whip’s claims as ‘reckless’ and urged the police to call her in for questioning.
Some shop owners affected by a devastating fire at a popular pub and food joint near Nogora Junction, just meters from Ho Technical University, are blaming the incident on intermittent power outages, locally known as dumsor.
The blaze sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky, drawing large crowds to the scene. Firefighters from the Ho Municipal Fire Command, led by Divisional Officer II Seth Tey, managed to bring the fire under control.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, August 13, destroyed more than five shops — including a well-known pub and eatery, as well as a printing press — causing losses estimated in the millions of cedis.
Affected shop owners are now counting their losses, salvaging what they can, and clearing debris from the site.
In an interview with Citi News, a shop owner said, “The power was intermittent. Thank God I was there alone. I had just moved to the boutique, and the next moment, the fire had consumed the place — there was fire everywhere.
When I decided to call for help, the flames had already spread. We have been facing this dumsor problem for a very long time. I’m always repairing my fridge. The damage is about GHC 1 million, including that of my neighbours who were also affected, though I can’t speak for them.”
Firefighters have, however, begun investigations into the incident with a visit to the affected shops for further assessment.
Divisional Officer II Seth Tey, Ho Municipal Fire Command, in an interview with journalists, said, “Six containers were involved in the fire outbreak. We were able to bring the fire under control within 2 hours because of the intensity of the fire. Now, an investigation is underway, and we can’t give you the cause of the fire.”
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The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has cautioned political actors against turning the procurement of presidential planes and helicopters into partisan propaganda, stressing that such acquisitions are matters of national security and not political convenience.
He issued the caution when the Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace following last week’s tragic helicopter clash in Obuasi, which claimed the lives of eight people.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II described the incident as a “national concern” and expressed deep sympathy to President John Mahama and the affected families.
He underscored the need for Ghana’s political actors to treat aviation safety and security equipment procurement with the seriousness it deserves.
“Enough of the politicizing of the purchase of presidential planes and helicopters. Human lives are at stake here. We must invest to safeguard their safety and efficiency,” the Asantehene said..
According to him most of the military aircraft are currently not in good form for continuous use, calling for the need to invest in current ones.
The Asantehene urged all sides of the political divide to unite in addressing the country’s aviation and security logistics gaps to prevent future tragedies.
The third edition of the Africa Money & DeFi Summit West Africa is set to return to Ghana on September 24-25, 2025, bringing together over 500 leaders from across the fintech, Web3, and decentralized finance sectors. As West Africa continues to rise as a digital finance leader, this impactful summit strengthens its reputation as a catalyst for business growth, investment, and partnerships in the region.
The Summit will focus on how modern payment systems and cross-border trade are unlocking new economic opportunities throughout Africa, while digital services and lending platforms contribute to expanding financial inclusion. Stablecoins and Web3 are reshaping value exchange and ownership, with embedded finance making financial tools more accessible than ever. Sessions will also address crucial topics such as regulation and policy, KYC and digital identity to ensure secure digital ecosystems, and the role of fintech and AI in driving smarter, more personalized financial solutions.
Nigeria is at the forefront of global stablecoin adoption, with 25.9 million users and an 11.9% penetration rate. Meanwhile, Ghana is set to implement digital asset regulations by September 2025, with the Central Bank of Ghana also in attendance. West Africa’s leadership in financial transformation is evident, as reported by Yellow Card’s 2025 Report, which highlights Sub-Saharan Africa’s stablecoin adoption rate as the highest globally at 9.3%, with Nigeria ranking second in overall digital asset usage.
Andrew Fassnidge, Director of the Africa Money & DeFi Summit, remarks: “Africa’s financial landscape is evolving rapidly. Stablecoins are now supporting payroll, cross-border transfers, and business operations, driving significant commercial momentum. With mobile-based stablecoin transfers up by 61% and 43% of digital asset transactions involving stablecoins, adoption is accelerating. Innovation in fintech is central to this transformation, spanning embedded finance, lending platforms, digital identity, Web3, mobile money, and digital commerce. This summit gathers the innovators, investors, and platforms turning emerging technologies into scalable business and investment opportunities.”
Applications are now open for the Investment Showcase, highlighting investment-ready African ventures across fintech, blockchain, payments, Web3, and DeFi. Selected startups will have the opportunity to pitch live to investors and ecosystem leaders, potentially securing funding and strategic partnerships. Applications close on August 13, 2025.
Join the industry leaders in Accra on September 24-25, 2025. Early bird tickets are available now athttps://africamoneydefisummit.co.
In addition, Mastercard has released a new whitepaper titled Harnessing the Transformative Power of AI in Africa, offering a comprehensive study on the continent’s readiness, opportunities, and roadmap for responsible artificial intelligence (AI) adoption. The whitepaper provides in-depth insights into how AI—if deployed responsibly and inclusively—can unlock transformative outcomes across key African industries, including agriculture, healthcare, education, energy, and finance.
With Africa’s AI market expected to grow from USD 4.5 billion in 2025 to USD 16.5 billion by 2030, according to Statista, the whitepaper emphasizes the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration and investment. It outlines how Africa’s unique demographics, mobile-first infrastructure, and entrepreneurial spirit position the continent as a key player in shaping the future of AI.
Mark Elliott, Division President of Africa at Mastercard, stated: “Africa’s engagement with AI is already transforming lives—not just in labs, but on farms, in clinics, and in classrooms. To unlock its full potential, we need investment in infrastructure, data, talent, and policy. At Mastercard, we believe that responsible, locally rooted AI can drive inclusive growth and connect more people to opportunity.”
The whitepaper outlines the potential impact of AI on digital infrastructure, policy and governance, research and development, local language processing, and investment in Africa. It also explores how AI can accelerate job creation, with up to 230 million digital jobs projected by 2030, and increase access to formal finance through AI-enabled credit scoring and fraud prevention.
Greg Ulrich, Chief AI and Data Officer at Mastercard, said: “AI is only as powerful as the trust behind it. At Mastercard, we’re committed to developing AI that’s responsible, inclusive, and designed to bring value to our customers, partners, and employees. This is not just innovation—it’s innovation with integrity.”
Regional highlights covered in the whitepaper include:
South Africa: South Africa attracted USD 610 million in AI-focused venture capital in 2023, with total AI investment expected to reach USD 3.7 billion by 2030. With the highest data and infrastructure readiness in Africa, South Africa is establishing itself as a continental leader in AI research and application. The country is home to the Artificial Intelligence Institute of South Africa, which offers world-class education, research, and industry news. National plans aim to develop up to 300 AI start-ups and train 5,000 AI professionals by 2030, laying the groundwork for a vibrant homegrown AI ecosystem.
Kenya: An emerging AI innovation hub, Kenya has leveraged its “Silicon Savannah” status to deploy AI securely across various sectors. Platforms such as Tala use mobile data for credit scoring, and Jacaranda Health’s UlizaLlama, an AI-powered chatbot, provides maternal health support in five local languages. The government’s newly launched National AI Strategy (2025–2030) outlines Kenya’s commitment to positioning itself as a regional leader in AI research, development, and commercialization for socioeconomic advancement.
Nigeria: Nigeria ranks second in the number of AI startups in Africa, securing USD 218 million in venture capital investment in 2023. As one of Africa’s most dynamic AI ecosystems, Nigeria uses AI to personalize learning (Rising Academies), provide microfinance via Kudi.ai, and strengthen governance with AI tools for monitoring public fund allocation. With a projected AI market size of USD 1.4 billion by 2025, the government’s proactive approach, alongside growing private-sector innovation, suggests promising growth for AI applications.
Morocco: An emerging AI hub in North Africa, Morocco is advancing AI adoption across sectors such as healthcare, energy, agriculture, and finance. Institutions like Mohammed VI Polytechnic University and DeepEcho are driving local innovation, while the MoroccoAI Annual Conference is shaping the national dialogue on AI’s future. Under its Digital 2030 strategy, Morocco aims to attract USD 1.1 billion in investment and create 240,000 digital jobs by 2030. However, the whitepaper warns that challenges such as data fragmentation, language exclusion, and regulatory inconsistency could widen the digital divide.
Harnessing AI’s potential in Africa will be essential for driving financial inclusion and accelerating the continent’s digital and economic growth. Strategic collaborations between governments, fintechs, and global partners will be key to unlocking AI’s full impact.
Mastercard’s whitepaper draws on insights from leading African technologists, policymakers, academics, and entrepreneurs, including interviews with UNESCO, the African Center for Economic Transformation, and fintech leaders across the region.
Got a Story to Tell? Share your journey with TechInAfrica.com and connect with thousands of African founders, investors, venture capitalists, tech leaders, and industry decision-makers. Whether you’re building the next big thing or reshaping the future of tech in Africa, we’ll help you get your story in front of the people who matter.
Dr Ethel urges churches to teach about marital initimacy
Dr Ethel has shared her observations about Christian women who get married without being sexually expressive beforehand.
During an interview with JoyPrime, she explained that this often affects their mental readiness for intimacy, even before marriage.
She said as virgins and Christians, many are not encouraged to imagine sex, think about it, or prepare themselves for it.
Dr Ethel emphasised that marriage is where sex should happen and be enjoyed, describing it as a home for intimacy and a foundation for the marital bond.
According to her, when couples get it right, it brings many positive benefits.
She noted, “I was a virgin before I got married, but in my mind, I was going to enjoy it in the future.”
‘I’m a soft girl; you stress me, I vanish’ – Fella Makafui
She recounted how some people assumed she would become a reverend sister, but she surprised them by getting married, as she wanted to enjoy intimacy with her husband.
Concluding her statements, Dr Ethel said, “The church must teach and prepare our young women and men. Yes, keeping yourself is excellent, but do not joke with preparing for marriage. It’s not devilish to think positively about sex in marriage.”
She added, “People should allow themselves to explore, and it’s not evil as long as it’s between you and your husband.”
Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s yet-to-air documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below:
Two out of the eight victims have already been buried in line with Islamic customs
The Ghana Police Service has announced traffic management arrangements for the state funeral of the victims of the August 6, 2025, fatal helicopter crash.
In a statement dated Thursday, August 14, 2025, the police said the arrangements will ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow during the interdenominational and interfaith event to be held at Independence Square on Friday.
The Police Service, as part of the measures, listed specific routes where roads will be closed, creation of road diversions, implementation of approved parking stickers, designation of car parks, as well as towing of unauthorised vehicles and recovery processes.
Road Closures:
The following roads will be closed to traffic during the event:
28th February Road from CEPS Traffic Light Intersection to Castle Road Junction.
Osu Cemetery Traffic Light on Lokko Street.
Castle Road from AU to Osu Cemetery Traffic Light.
Starlet 91 Road, closed at the Ministries Traffic Light Intersection.
Full details on final funeral for victims of August 6 helicopter crash
Traffic Diversions:
Motorists are advised to take note of these diversions:
Traffic from La, Labone, and Osu on the 28th February Road towards the Central Business District and Ministries will be diverted onto Salem Avenue Road at the Castle Traffic Light to link with Oxford Street.
Motorists from Lokko Street, Osu, towards Castle Road should use Ajumaku Street and Oxford Street in Osu.
Traffic from John Evans Atta Mills High Street towards Black Star Square will be diverted onto Liberia Road at the CEPS Traffic Light Intersection towards the National Theatre Traffic Light Intersection.
Traffic from the AU Circle towards Castle Road via Osu Cemetery Traffic Light will be diverted to Abdul Diouf and King Hassan Roads to join Abdul Nasser Road near the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ).
Helicopter Crash: ‘If we’re attacked today, the Army can’t respond’ – Solomon Owusu opines
Approved Parking Areas:
Only vehicles with approved windscreen entry stickers — specifically red stickers with VVIP inscription — will be allowed entry into the Black Star Square arena and parking zones. The designated parking areas include:
VVIP, VIP – Black Star Square
Forecourt of the State House
International Conference Centre
Access Bank Car Park
Osu Cemetery Car Park
Accra Sports Stadium Car Park
Ministries Area
Ministry of Food and Agriculture Car Park
Marine Drive Football Park
Afua Sutherland Car Park
‘Fatal helicopter crash has hit us hard’ – Dr Ayine explains why prosecutions have stalled
Towing and Recovery Operations:
The police warned that no vehicle will be allowed to park at unauthorised locations or drive through restricted zones.
Towing and recovery trucks will be on standby to remove any abandoned, disabled, or wrongly parked vehicles in and around the event grounds.
The public, especially motorists, is urged to cooperate fully with the police and other security agencies to ensure effective traffic management during the state funeral.
GA/BAI
Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s yet-to-air documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below:
The Japan National Stadium is not new, its towering frame, all warm timber lines and steel grace, have already seen the world gather once before.
But in 2021, when the Tokyo Olympics took place a year late, the stands were ghosted by an invisible enemy because of the restrictions of the Coronavirus pandemic.
The tracks still thundered, but the roars came from TV screens, not the grandstands.
Four years later, the ghosts are gone. From 13 to 21 September 2025, Tokyo’s air will be alive again, the same city that bowed politely to the world in silence will now sing.
Over 2,000 athletes from about 200 countries will step into the heat haze of late summer, chasing 147 medals across 49 events. The difference this time? You’ll hear every heartbeat.
What to Expect: A symphony in nine days
Nine days of competition is not just a schedule, it’s a story in chapters. The sprints, where victories are decided in blinks; the marathons, where every kilometre is a test of spirit; the field events, where stillness and explosion live seconds apart.
This is the 20th edition of the World Athletics Championships, the global summit where records fall, careers ignite, and legends sometimes end in heartbreak.
It is track and field’s ultimate meeting place, where the stars you know share a start line with names you’ll never forget after Tokyo.
Underdogs who might steal the light
Ghana’s Saminu and Azamati
From Ghana’s quiet northern village to the world’s fastest lane, Abdul-Rasheed Saminu has become a sprint sensation.
In May 2025, he shattered his own national 100m record with a blazing 9.86s, only to demolish that again in July with 9.84s, now the third-fastest time in the world this year, second-fastest ever in NCAA history, and Ghana’s new sprint benchmark.
He already proved his mettle: semi-finalist in Paris 2024, and key part of Ghana’s gold-winning 4×100m relay at the 2024 African Championships.
A linguistic polyglot from Nanumba, Ghana, Saminu is no mere national hero; he’s a global standout.
Beside him, Benjamin Azamati remains a formidable presence. The first Ghanaian to run 100m in sub-10 s at the Tokyo Olympics (9.97 s), he remains part of Ghana’s sprint vanguard.
Watch how Rasheed Saminu finished second to Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson in 100m showdown
Sorato Shimizu
The locals will already know the name Sorato Shimizu, 16 years old, and already the fastest U-18 sprinter in history with a 10.00s 100m.
In the Tokyo night, with the home crowd chanting in waves, that 10.00 might not be enough to medal, but it might be enough to make a career.
From Australia comes Gout Gout, 17, a boy with a name you don’t forget and a stride you can’t unsee. His junior records make him dangerous.
The question is whether he can keep his nerve when the lanes beside him are filled with Olympic champions.
And there’s Ethan Strand of the US, the 1500m upstart with a 3:30s personal best, and Madison Wiltrout, making her global debut in the javelin.
They aren’t favourites, but Tokyo has always loved a surprise, from the streets of Shinjuku to the roar of the stadium.
Stars who want their shine back
Every championship has its redemption arcs. Zharnel Hughes, Britain’s sprinter with bronze in Budapest 2023, comes to Tokyo heavier with experience and sharper from recent wins.
Tobi Amusan, Nigeria’s sprint-hurdle queen, exploded onto the world stage with a world record in Eugene, only to be sidelined by a careless doping whereabouts failure.
Cleared by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, she now arrives in Tokyo with redemption on her mind and the hurdles world title in her sights.
One of the most stunning upsets in Paris 2024 came from Jamaica, once a sprinting royalty. No Jamaican woman medaled in the 100m or 200m at Paris, the first time since 1988, and even the relay teams failed to perform.
It was a historic decline for a nation synonymous with sprinting excellence. Jamaica’s rebuilding starts now, with old guards like Elaine Thompson-Herah, Shericka Jackson recovering, new stars emerging, and Tokyo 2025 offering a stage to reclaim sprinting pride.
Giants waiting to continue their dominance
The World Championships are never short of towering names, athletes whose mere presence sends ripples through the stadium before the starting gun, the throw, or the jump.
In Tokyo, several such giants are primed to either extend their dominance or defend their thrones from hungry challengers.
Akani Simbine – Africa’s fastest man, still chasing that elusive global gold, and Tokyo might just be the stage where his experience tips the scales.
Ferdinand Omanyala – Africa’s sprint sensation and Commonwealth champion, bringing raw power and fearless starts that can upset the pecking order.
Femke Bol – The reigning queen of the 400m hurdles, blending elegance with raw power. After skipping parts of the 2025 indoor season to focus on recovery and relays, she returns to Tokyo sharper and hungrier than ever.
Sydney McLaughlin – Olympic and world record-holder in the 400m hurdles, known for precision and relentless drive. In Tokyo, she’s ready to test herself against Bol in a clash of titans.
Sha’Carri Richardson – Defending 100m world champion, fast and fiery. A recent airport incident stirred headlines, but she arrives with a semifinal bye and a mission to let her sprinting do the talking.
Julien Alfred – The reigning Olympic 100m queen from Saint Lucia, brings Caribbean pride and blistering pace to Tokyo.
Fresh off her historic Paris gold, and for a nation still celebrating its first Olympic medal, Alfred’s quest for more glory makes her one of the brightest stars waiting to shine.
Mutaz Essa Barshim (Qatar – High Jump): Olympic co-gold medalist whose graceful, almost effortless leaps keep him in the conversation for every major title.
Ryan Crouser (USA – Shot Put): The big man with the big throws, world record holder and double Olympic champion.
Neeraj Chopra (India – Javelin): The reigning Olympic and World champion, carrying the hopes of a billion people with a golden arm.
Then there are the titans: Noah Lyles, Faith Kipyegon, Mondo Duplantis, Jakob Ingebrigtsen, Yulimar Rojas.
They’ve known the view from the top, but in Tokyo, even kings and queens can be dethroned. In an arena this intense, glory has no guarantee.
Giants who could struggle
A championship in Tokyo is no easy feat. The humidity is a slow burn. The travel, the time zones, the sensory overload of a city that never stops moving, it all gnaws at the legs.
Some stars arrive tired, carrying seasons heavy with Diamond League battles.
Others face rising challengers who aren’t afraid of names, records, or reputations.
Even for the best, Tokyo might prove too much.
The story of these Championships might be as much about who falls as who flies.
Tokyo’s Pulse: Culture meets competition
Outside the Japan National Stadium, the streets will hum with the smell of grilled yakitori, the chatter of fans draped in flags, and the rhythmic clapping unique to Japanese sporting crowds.
The race walks will wind past the Meiji Shrine Outer Garden, a place where cedar-scented air meets the tick-tick-tick of racing feet.
This is the first major athletics event in Japan since the pandemic years, a chance for the nation to welcome the world without barriers.
For locals, it’s redemption. For visitors, it’s immersion: neon Shibuya crossings, calm temple gardens, and the hypnotic efficiency of the Shinkansen.
When it ends
When the final baton is passed, when the last javelin lands, the stories will scatter, to Accra, to Addis Ababa, to Kingston, to Brisbane, to small towns where the underdogs will return heroes.
The champions will wear their gold lightly or heavily, depending on how hard it was to win.
And Tokyo? Tokyo would have done what it could not in 2021: show the world, in person, that it is a city built to host the biggest stage in sport.
The stadium will sleep again, but the echo of nine days will last much longer.
FKA/JE
You can also watch the key highlights from the 2025 GFA Ordinary Congress
Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw is demanding justice for the younger sister of reality TV star Phyna, who was critically injured in a road accident allegedly involving a Dangote Group truck in Auchi, Edo State.
The victim, who had graduated just six days prior to the incident, underwent an amputation of one leg and risks losing the other.
Accra, Aug 14, GNA – The Ghana Industrial Holdings Corporation (GIHOC) Distilleries Company Limited has joined the Government and People of Ghana in mourning the tragic loss of the eight victims of the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash.
Mr Jones Borteye Applerh, Chief Executive Officer, GIHOC Distilleries Company Limited, on behalf of the Board, Management and Staff, laid a wreath at the Ceremonial Garden of the Presidency in Accra, in honour of the eight victims of the helicopter tragedy.
GIHOC, in a statement, said these individuals were not only leaders in their respective fields but also dedicated servants of the Republic.
It noted that the sudden passing of the eight national heroes represented an immense loss to their families, colleagues, and the nation at large.
“The Board, Management, and the entire Staff of GIHOC extends their deepest condolences to the bereaved families, friends, the Government of Ghana, and all citizens affected by this tragedy,” the statement said.
“We recognise the invaluable contributions these men made to national development and public service, and we honour their commitment, courage, and sacrifice.
“In this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with the nation as we reflect on their legacy and the values they upheld. May their souls rest in perfect peace.”
The deceased include Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; and Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology and Member of Parliament for Tamale Central.
Others were Alhaji Mohammed Mumiru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, 1st Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Mr Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO).
The rest were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, all of the Ghana Air Force.
An Accra Circuit Court has granted bail to NPP activists Fante Comedy (GH¢100k) and Sir Obama Pokuase (GH¢50k) over separate criminal charges, though both remain in police custody.
An Accra Circuit Court has approved bail applications for two New Patriotic Party (NPP)-affiliated social media figures, but both will remain in custody until formalities are completed.
The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana International Bank (GHIB), Dean Adansi, has outlined a bold financing strategy aimed at transforming Africa’s commodity trade from raw exports to value-added products, warning that the current model is costing the continent billions in lost revenue.
Speaking to the BBC on the sidelines of the GHIB Converge 2025 conference in London, Mr. Adansi said Africa’s share of global trade remains below three per cent, partly due to a persistent trade finance gap that prevents exporters from investing in local processing.
“Interest rates are significantly higher in many African countries than in the West, making it difficult for smaller firms with short track records to access the funding they need to export or industrialise locally,” he said.
He noted that for every US$1 of trade, there is a US$1.70 impact on GDP, meaning that closing the US$80 billion trade finance gap in sub-Saharan Africa could add around US$133 billion to annual GDP.
According to him, GHIB, which has operated from London for 65 years, is working with local financial institutions in West Africa to strengthen their capacity and attract larger international lenders.
This, Mr Adansi said, will enable local banks to better support small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and exporters.
He indicated that the bank had facilitated more than US$14 billion in trade flows over the past five years, including US$10.6 billion in documentary trade collections and US$2.7 billion in primary trade finance transactions.
In 2024 alone, he said downstream payments to West Africa exceeded US$8.5 billion.
Mr. Adansi stressed that processing plants require significant upfront investment, longer repayment periods, and tailored financing products, needs often unmet by traditional banking.
He stated that GHIB’s proposals include specialised commodity finance tools such as pre-export financing tied to off-take agreements, inventory financing, and equipment leasing.
Research presented at the conference indicated that increasing Africa’s share of value-added exports from 14 to 25 per cent could generate more than US$50 billion in extra annual revenue and millions of jobs.
Ghana’s growth in cocoa processing and gold refining was cited as proof of what targeted finance can achieve.
He also called for improvements in electricity supply, transport networks, skilled labour, and policy reforms to favour processed exports.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), he argued, offers an opportunity to create regional processing hubs, while digital platforms and blockchain can secure premium prices for certified goods.
Mr. Adansi added that environmental finance could further boost the shift, with sustainably processed commodities earning higher market value.
“The metrics of success go beyond profit,” he said.
“Employment creation, industrial capacity, and technology transfer are the real measures. If we can keep more processing on African soil, the benefits will be felt not just in GDP, but in livelihoods,” he noted.
Somanya(E/R), Aug 14, GNA – The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) has launched its 5th Anniversary celebrations with a renewed commitment to champion environmental protection, sustainability, and innovation.
The event, held at the university’s campus in Somanya, brought together government officials, academics, policymakers, and development partners to reflect on the journey of UESD and chart its future.
Held on the theme: “Sustainable Steps Towards Securing Our Environment: Five Years of Achievements, Challenges, and Progress,” the launch underscored the role of UESD’s a key driver of Ghana’s green transition.
In his keynote address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Eric Nyarko-Sampson described the anniversary as “a testament to a vision rooted in sustainability, guided by innovation, and committed to building a resilient and environmentally conscious Ghana.” Quoting sustainability advocate Paul Polman, he added: “Sustainability is no longer about doing what is good for the environment; it is about doing what is necessary for survival.”
Established on August 5, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, UESD has rapidly positioned itself as a thought leader in environmental research, education, and advocacy.
Among its notable achievements includes introduction of specialised academic programmes in climate change, energy economics, and water resources; recognition as 2022/2023 Public University of the Year by the National Union of Ghana Students; ranked 20th in Ghana under the Impact Category of the 2023 Webometrics Rankings
Despite these strides, Prof. Nyarko-Sampson expressed concern over stalled infrastructure projects under Phase Two of the university’s development.
He cited the demobilisation of contractor Messrs Contracta Construzioni Italia SRL due to funding delays, which has left key facilities, lecture halls, laboratories, sports complexes, and roads, incomplete.
“The incomplete facilities are affecting student intake and limiting campus expansion,” he stated, while appealing to government for urgent funding and protection of university lands from encroachment.
Delivering remarks on behalf of University Council Chairman Mr. Seth Terkper, Professor Dela Ahiatrogah, commended the pioneering efforts of the university’s first Council and reaffirmed its dedication to advancing UESD’s mission.
“Our mission remains clear: to consolidate our gains and accelerate our impact as a catalyst for green innovation and a hub for sustainability leadership in Ghana and across Africa,” he said. He also announced the completion of UESD’s maiden strategic plan and the upcoming launch of a revised version, in line with directives from the Minister for Education, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu.
Eastern Regional Minister Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, who served as Guest of Honour, hailed UESD as a “bold national initiative” aligned with regional development priorities and global sustainability targets.
“UESD is not only driving academic excellence but also generating economic opportunities for Somanya and its environs,” she noted.
Representing the CEO of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Ms. Patience Lartey stated the critical role of academia in Ghana’s energy transition.
“Securing the environment is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. UESD must be a co-creator of solutions, not just an academic observer,” she said.
She reaffirmed GNPC’s commitment to deepening collaboration with UESD in afforestation, biodiversity protection, and research.
The highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the 5th Anniversary logo, jointly performed by the Vice-President’s representative Dr. Emmanuel Newman, the Regional Minister Mrs. Awatey, and the Minister for Public Sector Reforms Madam Lydia Akanvoriba.
A series of activities have been scheduled throughout the year, including a float, public lectures, the university’s second congregation ceremony, and a durbar in December to climax the celebrations.
UESD was inaugurated in 2020 as Ghana’s first public university dedicated to environmental and sustainable development studies.
The university’s mandate includes training experts in environmental science, sustainable agriculture, and climate policy.
Like many public institutions, UESD faces infrastructure challenges. Delays in funding and contractor demobilisation have stalled critical projects, affecting academic delivery and student welfare.
As UESD marks five years of existence, it stands at a pivotal moment, poised to deepen its impact on Ghana’s sustainable development agenda through research, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
Heartwarming Moments of Late Michael Kwesi Ofori and His Wife Surface After Tragic Passing
News Hub Creator28min
Touching videos and photos capturing the special bond between the late Michael Kwesi Ofori and his wife have emerged online, offering a bittersweet glimpse into their love story following his sudden demise. Shared by @thegeneral_worldwide on Instagram, the clips show the couple’s joyful moments together – from tender embraces to shared laughter – now serving as poignant memories for grieving family and friends. The footage has sparked an outpouring of sympathy, with many remarking how the tragedy highlights life’s fragility.
Friends of the couple reveal that Ofori, whose cause of death remains undisclosed, had been a devoted husband who cherished every moment with his wife. “He adored her beyond measure,” one close associate shared, noting that their relationship was built on mutual respect and unwavering support. The viral videos, showing the couple dancing at celebrations and enjoying quiet moments together, have become a testament to the love they shared.
The phrase “He left her way early” – circulating alongside the posts – underscores the profound grief surrounding Ofori’s untimely departure. Well-wishers have flooded social media with messages of comfort for his widow, urging her to find strength in their beautiful memories. Many have noted how the couple’s evident happiness makes the loss even more heartbreaking for those who knew them.
As tributes continue to pour in, these intimate glimpses into Ofori’s personal life have become a touching memorial. While nothing can fill the void left by his passing, the shared moments now immortalized online offer both a celebration of his life and a sobering reminder to cherish loved ones. His legacy, as seen through these captured memories, will live on as an inspiration of love cut short but deeply lived.
Forty-seven medical students have eulogised the late Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, who also served as the Tamale Central Member of Parliament, (MP) Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, for sponsoring their tertiary education.
During the final funeral rites for the late MP, the students in a tribute read by Qawiyu Iddrisu, described him as more than just a benefactor but a father figure to them.
“He was our mentor, our encourager, and an unwavering pillar of support. Through his kindness and sacrifice, he made it possible for my colleagues and me to pursue our dreams of becoming medical professionals, training in various institutions across the country. He believed in us when we had little more than a vision for our future, and without fanfare, he assisted us with the payment of our tuition, lifting a burden we would have had to carry alone,” he said.
He expressed concern about the future of their education following the passing of the late Tamale Central MP.
“We grieve not only for a benefactor but for a man whose wisdom, generosity, and humanity left a profound mark on our lives. As we navigate the pain of this loss, we are also confronted with the reality that our medical education, which he supported, now hangs in the balance. Without his help, we face the risk of our dreams being cut short,” he noted.
The medical students appealed to the government, philanthropists, and charitable organizations for assistance to continue their education.
“With all humility, we appeal to the government, kind-hearted philanthropists, and charitable organisations to please help us continue our education so that we can realize our full potential and serve humanity in the future,” he read.
Meanwhile, the Tamale South Member of Parliament and Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has assured the 47 medical students that he will take over the payment of their tuition.
The late Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed was one of the victims of the tragic Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash that occurred in a forest near Adansi Brofoyedu in the Ashanti region.
Knight disclosed that Tupac’s friends rolled his cremated ashes with marijuana and smoked it
Legendary West Coast rapper Tupac may have tragically died 29 years ago, but his legacy continues to live on through his music and impact in hip-hop culture.
The California Love rapper, born Tupac Amaru Shakur, was unarguably one of the most popular hip-hop artistes at the time of his killing, so his demise sent shockwaves through the rap industry.
On the night of the fatal incident, Tupac was hanging out with Suge Knight, the co-founder and former CEO of the Death Row record label, to which the deceased rapper was signed.
The pair were also close associates, and Knight, 60, was also a victim in the shooting.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Knight, who is currently locked up after he received a 28-year-prison sentence for a fatal 2015 hit-and-run incident, touched on the night of shooting and also disclosed that Tupac’s friends rolled the deceased rapper’s cremated ashes with marijuana and smoked it.
“I was so happy to say I was on probation — I couldn’t smoke,” Knight claimed. “I told his mother, ‘Moms, I’d love to, but if I hit that, I’ll get in trouble, ” he added. “I was probably the only one who didn’t hit him.”
As previously reported by Face2Face Africa, Tupac was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting on September 7, 1996, following a Mike Tyson boxing match in Las Vegas. Knight was riding with Tupac in a BMW when the car was rained with bullets. Knight, who suffered a graze to the head, managed to drive away.
“I got out and tried to tell the officers what happened while I was bleeding everywhere,” he recalled. “I then was getting Tupac out the car, even when the door was open. I had to go over there bleeding everywhere, take the seat belt off him.”
Tupac, who was 25 at the time, unfortunately succumbed to his injuries at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada on September 13, 1996. Knight told PEOPLE that on the night of his death, Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur, asked for her son to be quickly cremated, adding that he made a $1 million cash payment to make it happen.
Following his cremation, Afeni, together with Knight and Tupac’s other close associates, met at nightfall to pay homage to the deceased rapper, per Knight.
“A bag with his ashes was passed around,” Knight claimed. “His homies rolled him up. They smoked him,” he continued. “You gotta understand, that’s what made sense. It was symbolic. It’s like… you keep part of him.”
play videoPresident Mahama stepping out of the presidential jet after an official trip
A government spokesperson Kwaku Owusu Banahene has alleged that the previous administration of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) set multiple traps for President John Dramani Mahama in a bid to harm him.
According to him, some NPP members poured acid on parts of the presidential jet to corrode vital components as part of their plot against the President.
Without providing evidence, he added that after setting such traps, the NPP later insisted that President Mahama use the same jet for his official trips.
Speaking in an interview on Angel TV on August 13, 2025, Banahene said, “Some of the issues have to do with the presidential jet we are now discussing.
Retired Col. Festus Aboagye sets the record straight on alleged explosion of helicopter that killed eight
“The NPP poured acid on all the pipes, and they are corroding. They set multiple traps for President Mahama on the presidential jet and then forced him to use it. That is why they opposed him using his brother’s jet.”
His comment follows the crash of the Z9 helicopter, which belonged to the Ghana Armed Forces, that claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Environment, Science and Technology Minister Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed and six others.
The other six are: Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna; former Central Regional Minister, Samuel Sarpong; and Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate.
Members of the helicopter’s crew are Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu and Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah.
What Defence Ministers have said about the presidential jet:
The late Defence Minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, in May 2025 accused the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government of running down the presidential jet and leaving it in a deplorable state.
“Among other issues, its fuel tank is even corroded,” the minister disclosed, adding that the jet has been effectively grounded and is receiving a complete maintenance, repair, and overhaul regimen.
Dr Omane Boamah noted that the jet may only return to a “fairly usable state” after three months of what he described as “therapy.”
Former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul, while in office in 2021, characterised the presidential jet as unfit for purpose and insufficiently safe for then-President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s travel in June 2021.
He defended the former president’s use of private jets by highlighting the non-airworthiness of the presidential jet, in response to a question raised in Parliament by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
“This aircraft will carry a load of 11 persons minus the crew. When this aircraft is travelling to the eastern part of the USA or Asia, it will not load a crew of more than eight plus the luggage. So it depends on where it is going.
“Secondly, I have also said the aircraft has to do refuelling stops, and also in this COVID-19 period, when you are travelling to multiple destinations like the president’s recent travel, the Falcon couldn’t have been taken because he would have had to do technical stops, which are not desirable, and when he is travelling with more than 20 people, like he has been doing for business trips that brought huge sums of money for this country, he will need more than just a Falcon; otherwise, the others would have to go a day ahead before the president to prepare themselves.
“In fact, the president would also have to go a day ahead because no president can shower in this aircraft. He cannot move from this aircraft straight into a meeting,” he was quoted as saying by citinewsroom.com.
MoMo-related transactions will be affected from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m on Sunday
Telecommunications giant, MTN Ghana, has announced a temporary suspension of its Mobile Money (MoMo) services in the early hours of Sunday, August 17, 2025.
The six-hour downtime, scheduled from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m., will affect all MoMo-related transactions.
During this period, customers will be unable to send or receive money, make deposits or withdrawals, transfer funds, or pay bills.
Charles Asamoah Assah, Chief Technology and Service Delivery Officer at Mobile Money Limited, explained that the planned system upgrade is aimed at improving the quality and reliability of MoMo services.
“Please be informed of a planned system upgrade on 17th August 2025, from 12 midnight to 6 a.m. During this period, all Mobile Money services will be unavailable. This upgrade is to improve our services to you,” he stated.
He added that the temporary suspension is necessary to allow technicians to complete the upgrade smoothly and ensure more efficient service delivery going forward.
Cedi slips to GH¢10.75 against the dollar on interbank market
Assah apologized for any inconvenience the downtime may cause and expressed appreciation for customers’ patience and understanding.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your understanding,” he said.
MTN Ghana is encouraging users to plan ahead and complete any urgent MoMo transactions before the maintenance period begins.
How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience
Lewandowski wearing number 9, scored Bayern’s sixth on the night
August 14, 2020. Lisbon. An empty Estádio da Luz, echoing with every pass and shout, became the stage for one of the most brutal nights in European football history.
The world was still adjusting to football without fans due to COVID-19, but Bayern Munich made sure nobody forgot this quarter-final in a hurry.
Within the first seven minutes, Thomas Muller had already scored and Barcelona had conceded an own goal through David Alaba.
Though David Alaba’s mishap briefly brought the score level, Bayern’s relentless press and lightning attacks tore the Spanish giants apart.
By halftime, it was already 4–1, Muller grabbing another, with Ivan Perišić and Serge Gnabry also on the scoresheet.
Marcus Rashford opens up on why Manchester United has been struggling for years
Barcelona, with Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Gerard Piqué still in the ranks, looked stunned. When Suárez pulled one back to make it 4–2, hope flickered, but it didn’t last.
Alphonso Davies’ sensational solo run set up Joshua Kimmich for the fifth, Robert Lewandowski nodded in the sixth, and then Philippe Coutinho, on loan from Barca, twisted the knife with two late goals against his parent club.
The final whistle confirmed an 8–2 demolition, the heaviest defeat in Barcelona’s Champions League history. For Bayern, it was a ruthless statement en route to lifting the trophy.
For Barca, it triggered a period of soul-searching, departures, and a painful rebuild.
Watch highlights of the game below:
FKA/JE
Watch the key highlights from the 2025 GFA Ordinary Congress
First Lady Melania Trump don threaten to sue Hunter Biden
First Lady Melania Trump don threaten to sue Hunter Biden for more dan $1bn afta e claim say na sex offender Jeffrey Epstein introduce am to her husband.
Lawyers acting on behalf of di first lady, wey marry US President Donald Trump for 2005, describe di claim as “false, disparaging, defamatory and inflammatory”.
Biden, son of former US President Joe Biden, make dis comments during one interview earlier dis month, wia e strongly criticised di president former ties to Epstein.
Donald Trump na friend of Epstein, but e tok say dia friendship end in di early 2000s becos di financier wan snatch employees wey dey work at di spa in Trump Florida golf club.
One letter from di first lady lawyers and address to one attorney for Hunter Biden demand make im take back di claim and apologise, or face legal action for “ova $1bn in damages”.
E tok say di first lady don suffer “overwhelming financial and reputational harm” becos e repeat di claim.
E also accuse di youngest Biden son of “vast history of trading on di names of others”, and repeating di claim “to draw attention to yourself”.
During one wide-ranging interview wit filmmaker Andrew Callaghan publish earlier dis month, Hunter Biden claim unrelease documents relating to Epstein go “implicate” President Trump.
E tok say: “Epstein introduce Melania to Trump – di connection dey so wide and deep.” Di first lady legal letter note claim, e dey partially attributed to Michael Wolff, one journalist wey write critical biography of di president.
For one recent interview wit US outlet di Daily Beast, Wolff reportedly claim say di first lady sabi Epstein, wey be associate of Trump wen she meet her now-husband.
Di outlet later take back di story afta receiving one letter from di first lady attorney wey challenge di contents and framing of di story.
No evidence say na Epstein introduce dem to each other. Epstein take im own life for prison while awaiting trial in 2019.
Inside di first lady legal letter, e accuse Hunter Biden of relying one article as di basis of im claims, wia dem describe as “false and defamatory”.
One message on di archived version of di Daily Beast online story read: “Afta we publish dia story, di Beast receive one letter from First Lady Melania Trump attorney challenging di headline and framing of di article.
“Afta reviewing di matter, di Beast don take down di article and apologize for any confusion or misunderstanding.”
Di first lady lawyer, Alejandro Brito, ask BBC News make dem look at one statement wey di her aide, Nick Clemens issue.
E read: “First Lady Melania Trump attorneys dey actively ensure immediate retractions and apologies by pipo wey dey spread malicious, defamatory falsehoods.”
One January 2016 profile by Harper Bazaar report say di first lady meet her husband for November 1998, for one party wey di founder of one modelling agency host.
Melania Trump, 55, tell di publication she refuse to give am her phone number becos e dey “wit one date”.
Di profile tok say Trump don recently separate from im second wife, Marla Maples, e divorce in 1999. E bin marry Ivana Trump between 1977 and 1990.
Di BBC don contact Hunter Biden attorney.
Di legal letter dey come afta weeks of pressure on di White House to release di so-called Epstein file, previously undisclose documents relating to di criminal investigation against di convicted paedophile.
Before dem re-elect Trump, e tok say e go release di record if e return to office, but di FBI and justice department in July tok say no “incriminating” client list of Epstein associates exist.
Nigerian influencer Idowu Adeyemi popularly known as Yhemo Lee has criticised the Ibom Air hostess involved in the viral incident with passenger Comfort Emmanson.
Sharing his thoughts on Instagram, Yhemo Lee said he had encountered the same hostess on two occasions and found her to be constantly frowning, with a stern facial expression that made passengers uncomfortable.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been announced as Under Armour’s new global ambassador and director of performance.
Arteta’s partnership with Under Armour is designed to help the American sportswear company push further into football.
Arteta will share insights with Under Armour in areas such as product development, talent identification and leadership.
A key focus of his new role as Under Armour’s director of performance will be on developing the next generation of athletes through a leading role in Under Armour’s ‘Next’ programme.
Under Armour launched the Next programme in 2023, which was created to inspire, support and celebrate the next generation of athletes trying to break through.
The programme gives athletes aged 16 to 20 the chance to sign up and test themselves, with the reward being a spot on the Under Armour Next roster.
Those selected to be an Under Armour Next athlete gain access to pro-level support, experts, facilities and experiences designed to take their game to the next level.
So far, over 10,000 athletes have been tested and 18 contracts handed out, with Arteta brought in to play a leading role in the programme’s development.
Under Armour believe Arteta is an ideal fit for the role given his track record of providing young players with a platform to flourish while in charge of Arsenal.
“The collaboration with Under Armour is the perfect opportunity for me to work with a partner committed to making young athletes better,” said Arteta.
“I’m passionate about providing a platform for the next generation of players coming through in football and the top level of talent already signed with the brand show that they are too,” he added.
The announcement of Arteta’s new role comes ahead of Under Armour launching a new football campaign, ‘Be The Problem,’ on Friday.
Spotify has named Ghanaian trailblazer Amaarae as the EQUAL Africa artiste for August, spotlighting her as one of the continent’s artistes who continues to push creative and cultural boundaries with every beat, lyric, and look.
Amaarae, born Ama Serwah Genfi, raised between Ghana and the USA, often pulls her musical inspiration from the cultures and genres she grew up with. She has consistently pushed the boundaries of sound and identity, with her unique fusion of alternative, pop, R&B, and Afrobeats cementing her place as a singular voice in modern music.
Her musical journey took a turn in a computer lab in Ghana in 2009, where she taught herself to make beats on a cracked version of FL Studio. That moment sparked the fire for a career that would go on to produce game-changing projects like “The Angel You Don’t Know” and global hits such as “Sad Girlz Luv Money”.
Amaarae’s inclusion on Spotify’s Global Impact List for the first half of the year, highlighting the most-exported Ghanaian songs, was no surprise. She has become a symbol of how African music is travelling further, faster, and louder than ever before.
With her latest album “Black Star,” she returns to her Ghanaian roots with bold energy, crafting what she calls a “rallying cry for youth culture around the world. This album is bringing the alternative community to the forefront, and being fearless about that.”
“I navigate the music world with balance, willpower, and strength. The challenges are real, don’t get me wrong, but I put my blinders on, lock into tunnel vision, and get to work. And when I come across another woman on the journey, especially a Black woman, I do my best to share knowledge, create opportunities, and lighten the load where I can,” says Amaarae.
As part of Spotify’s EQUAL programme, which amplifies women’s voices worldwide, Amaarae joins a growing list of African women shaping the future through sound and self-expression.
“Amaarae embodies the spirit of boundary-pushing creativity that EQUAL stands for,” says Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of for Sub-Saharan Africa. “Her artistry is bold, distinct, and unapologetically authentic – qualities that continue to inspire a new generation of artistes across the continent and beyond.”
NPP youth organisers from nearly 276 constituencies across the country have unanimously endorsed former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the best candidate to lead the NPP.
The constituency youth organisers and their deputies, numbering about 490, today (Thursday, August 14) gathered at the NPP headquarters in Accra to pick the party’s nomination forms for the flagbearer on behalf of Dr. Bawumia, whom they declared their unwavering support for.
“We are here today to pick the form for our incoming president Dr. Alhaji Mahamhudu Bawumia. We believe this is a gift to him. The only one we see as a unifier in the party,” the youth organisers told the media.
So far, a number of individuals have picked up nomination forms to contest the party’s presidential primaries, scheduled for January 31, 2026.
However, the youth organisers said Dr. Bawumia is the only one who meets the aspirations of the youth of the party because of his experience, incorruptibility and unifying posture.
“The only leader we believe is credible and has no iota of corruption associated with him is Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia,” they said.
“The only person that has gathered the experience over the years, from 2008 until now, as a former Vice presidential candidate and later becoming the former vice president of Ghana is Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia,” they added.
The constituency youth organisers, who have direct links with the youth of the party at all levels, said the party’s youth is poised to rally behind Dr. Bawumia and elect him as the party’s 2028 Flagbearer.
“We believe strongly that the youth, from our party faithful; from polling stations, from electoral areas, from constituencies and to national; and the person every Ghanaian is waiting for to be elected by the new patriotic party is Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia.”
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 Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, has proposed the introduction of a night curfew for persons under 18 years as part of sweeping measures to combat rising drug abuse in the region.
The Minister made the proposal during a meeting with the Member of Parliament for Wa West, the District Chief Executive, and other stakeholders from the Wa West District.
The Upper West Regional Minister and the Member of Parliament (MP) for Wa West, Peter Lanchene Toobu, have jointly called for decisive measures to tackle drug abuse among the youth while addressing critical development needs in Wa West District.
The Regional Minister likened the threat of drug abuse to that of illegal mining (“galamsey”) and described it as a crisis that demands urgent intervention. He revealed that a task force, inaugurated on May 28, 2025, has been working on a roadmap to rehabilitate drug users and cut off supply lines in the region.
Among the measures under consideration is a night curfew for minors under 18, during which police would detain those found outside between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. until their parents or guardians arrive.
The Minister acknowledged that the policy could draw criticism from human rights advocates but insisted it was necessary to uproot the problem.
“We cannot allow a 12-year-old girl to be involved in prostitution or have children roaming the streets at night because of drug abuse,” he stressed
The Minister also noted that authorities are tracking individuals involved in the wholesale and retail of illicit substances and working to stop their transportation into the region.
On his part, MP Peter Lanchene Toobu appealed for the completion of an abandoned dormitory block at Dorimon to expand access to secondary education, the creation of a new second-cycle institution in the district’s eastern corridor, and government adoption of a community-built Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institute.
He also urged the government to prioritise critical roads, including the Wa–Dorimon–Wechiau–Ga road, and to address the district’s electricity coverage, which he lamented remains below 40% compared to the national average of 90%.
Hon Peter Lanchene Toobu urged that coordinated action, government commitment, and community involvement are essential to reversing the district’s challenges and ensuring a safer, more prosperous future for its youth.
Govt outlines arrangements for State funeral of helicopter crash victims
A wave of sorrow has hit the Konongo Low Cost SSNIT community following the tragic killing of a young man identified only as Awal, popularly known as Awazy.
Reports indicate that the incident occurred inside his residence, where unidentified assailants shot him before fleeing the scene.
As revealed by an eyewitness, the assailants closely monitored Awal on his way back home from the workplace.
Assemblyman, 3 others arrested over galamsey clashes in Amansie South
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The Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force has arrested the Assemblyman for Bonteso in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, along with three others, for allegedly inciting a violent confrontation with officers during an operation against illegal mining.
The suspects have been named as Patrick Asare, the Assemblyman for the area, Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, and Owusu Alexander.
Police say the arrests took place on Wednesday, August 13, after the task force intercepted an excavator actively engaged in illegal mining during a routine patrol. While arrangements were being made to transport the machine, the assemblyman allegedly led a group of miners to confront the team.
According to the police, the crowd pelted the officers with stones and other objects, threatened bloodshed, and attempted to prevent the removal of the excavator. “They openly dared the police not to move the excavator,” an officer said.
Despite the provocation, the task force maintained what Police described as “professional” conduct and succeeded in arresting four individuals, including the assemblyman. Two officers: Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Bawah Abdul Jalil and G/Sgt. Agblekpe Mawuena Yao, sustained injuries during the confrontation.
The police reported that the miners blocked all exit routes to trap the team in the area. When the task force attempted to clear the blockade, the officers came under live fire. Two individuals were seen firing pump action guns, which also threatened the safety of the men.
The team responded with what authorities called “appropriate force” to neutralise the threat, disperse the hostile crowd, and secure the excavator, which was later taken to the Manso Adubia Police Station for safe custody and further action.
All four suspects are expected to be transferred to Accra for prosecution.
Ghana faces a critical jobs deficit despite solid economic growth, according to the World Bank’s Ninth Ghana Economic Update launched today in Accra.
The report, presented at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, highlights a troubling disconnect: while GDP expanded by 5.7% in 2024 and maintained 5.3% growth early this year, job creation lags far behind population growth.
Between 2012 and 2023, the working-age population surged by 2.7 million people, yet net employment rose by just 250,000 positions.
Robert Taliercio, World Bank Division Director for Ghana, opened the event with condolences for officials lost in a recent helicopter tragedy before addressing the labor emergency.
“Despite macroeconomic improvements including reduced inflation and successful debt restructuring, Ghana isn’t generating enough quality jobs,” he stated.
The report identifies five core challenges: weak labor demand in productive sectors like manufacturing, mismatched skills and opportunities, limited upward mobility for workers, and persistent barriers for women and youth.
Fiscal pressures complicate the picture. Though debt-to-GDP improved to 70.5%, the 2024 deficit hit 7.7% amid revenue shortfalls and arrears accumulation.
State-owned enterprises pose particular risks, with the Electricity Company of Ghana facing a potential $2.2 billion funding gap this year. COCOBOD’s financial instability persists despite high global cocoa prices. Taliercio urged balancing fiscal discipline with strategic IDA-funded investments in safety nets, irrigation, and cocoa farm rehabilitation.
The solution, the Bank argues, requires integrated reforms: boosting human capital through nutrition and education, enabling private sector growth, and mobilizing capital for high-potential industries.
With youth unemployment looming as a social time bomb, the report positions job creation as central to Ghana’s economic transformation.
As one attendee muttered during the Q&A: “Growth means little if it doesn’t put food on tables.”
Media personality Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah has shared his thoughts on EOCO’s seizure of a Lamborghini at Shatta Wale’s residence and its related developments.
In a video shared on X on August 14, 2025, Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah, while speaking on his program, claimed that Shatta allowed himself to be used by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for political power.
“They have used Shatta Wale and dumped him. Before we voted in the 2024 election, he was campaigning for John Mahama and the NDC, and they used his following to come into power,” he said in the Twi dialect.
The media personality further alleged that the government is using the EOCO to tame the “On God” singer from making utterances that might affect the ruling government.
“After they came into power, they have been using the EOCO to shut him up so he won’t be able to criticise the government,” he added.
The Shatta Wale and EOCO saga began in June 2025, when Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) seized a 2019 Lamborghini Urus from the musician’s residence in Trassaco Valley, Accra.
According to a report by the EOCO and FBI, the vehicle was linked to Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian American serving an 86 month prison sentence in the U.S. for a $4.7 million fraud scheme.
EOCO said its actions were based on a request from the FBI and U.S. Department of Justice, as the car was allegedly purchased with proceeds from Amuah’s crimes and needed for victim restitution.
Shatta denied any involvement with Amuah, claiming he bought the car for $150,000 from Kwabena Adu Boahene, a former National Signals Bureau (NSB) officer, and was unaware of its criminal ties.
The dancehall musician also accused EOCO of an “armed raid” in his residence with 13 officers, which EOCO denied, stating the seizure was peaceful and Shatta voluntarily surrendered the car to protect his brand.
Solomon Owusu, a leading figure in the Movement for Change, has criticized the previous administration led by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for the alleged misallocation of national resources as reported by Ghana Web
Speaking during a panel discussion on TV3, Owusu slammed the government’s priorities, pointing out that over US$22 million was allocated to architect David Adjaye for the design of the National Cathedral, and an additional US$97 million was spent on excavation works.
However, Owusu highlighted the stark contrast with the failure to secure a single new military helicopter for the country.
“Buying a robust helicopter wouldn’t cost you more than US$15 million,” Owusu said.
“But we found US$22 million and gave it to David Adjaye to just design the National Cathedral. We found US$97 million just to go and dig a hole. That is the priority of the nation, and not the army.”
His comments came in the aftermath of a devastating military helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of eight prominent individuals,
Including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
The crash occurred while they were en route to Obuasi for a galamsey-related event.
Owusu condemned what he described as the prioritization of “frivolous” projects over vital national security needs.
He also drew comparisons with countries like the United States, where military investments are a top priority.
The outspoken figure urged security experts to take a firm stand against the alleged misallocation of resources, calling for accountability for those responsible.
Tanzanian opposition Chadema party leader Tundu Lissu in court
