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We’re engaging E&P to resolve impasse

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Azumah Resources Ghana Limited has confirmed that it is currently in confidential negotiations with Engineers & Planners (E&P) to resolve an ongoing commercial dispute, describing the process as constructive and grounded in good faith.

In a statement issued on Sunday, July 13, the Board of Directors clarified that discussions between the two companies are being conducted within the framework of Ghana’s legal and regulatory systems, and with guidance from relevant ministerial bodies.

“Azumah Resources is currently engaged in confidential, good-faith negotiations with Engineers & Planners (E&P), with the shared objective of achieving a constructive and mutually acceptable resolution to the present impasse,” the statement read.

The announcement comes amid heightened public commentary and media reports, particularly concerning statements made by Bright Simons, a prominent Ghanaian policy analyst.

Azumah Resources made it clear that Simons does not represent the company in any capacity, and his public commentary should not be interpreted as the official position of the firm.

“Mr. Bright Simons does not represent, act on behalf of, or speak for the Shareholders or Directors of Azumah Resources Ghana in any capacity,” the Board stated, calling his remarks “personal opinions.”

The company cautioned the media and public to refrain from speculative or misleading reports, which it fears could jeopardize the integrity of the negotiation process. Instead, it urged stakeholders to rely on official spokespersons for verified information.

Azumah Resources also addressed the inclusion of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) in some public narratives.

The company clarified that while discussions had taken place in Lomé in 2023 regarding potential financing, EBID’s interest was purely indicative and contingent on internal credit assessments and Board approval.

“Any extrapolations beyond this context are both inappropriate and unauthorized,” the company added.

Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism and transparency, Azumah Resources emphasised its intent to act in the best interest of all stakeholders, including the Republic of Ghana.

Read also

Bright Simons doesn’t represent us – Azumah Resources

GHANET distributes 48,580 HIV test kits to men

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22nd International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2018) Amsterdam, Netherlands. Copyright: Marten van Dijl / IAS Photo shows: Positive Flame march

The Ghana HIV and AIDs Network, (GHANET) has distributed 48, 580 HIV test kits to some men across its project operational areas.

The figure, represented 63 per cent of the total target distribution of 77,665.

Mrs. Victoria Araba Dennis, the Vice President of the Network, told the Ghana News Agency that the focus on men was a deliberate strategy aimed at increasing HIV testing uptake among men who generally exhibited poor health seeking behaviours.

She added that distribution by age saw clients between 20 and 24 receiving the highest proportion of the test kits, followed closely by those aged 25 to 29 and 30 to 34.

Also, 44 of the test kits were taken up by minors aged 0-14 years.

Mrs. Dennis said the above was done with parental request and consent.

She said majority of clients, representing 77.3 percent preferred unassisted testing, while 22.7 percent opted to be assisted.

The goal of the HIV Self-Testing was to allow individuals to independently test on their own thus the high figure was a plus to the project, Madam Dennis added.

Also, 46, 263 individuals who accessed testing were first timers with the remaining 31, 420 been repeat testers.

Making reference to last year’s performance, she noted that students continued to receive more kits underscoring the focus on younger, sexually active populations.

The Vice President expressed gratitude to the sponsors of the project, the Ministry of Health and other relevant institutions for the gains made so far.

She also appreciated the invaluable contributions of all implementing community-based organisations and the Secretariat.

Source: GNA

Let’s end political thuggery – Shamima Muslim

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Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Shamima Muslim, has issued a strong condemnation of political vigilantism, following the outbreak of violence during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun.

The incident, which occurred on Friday, July 11, saw chaos erupt at the St. Peter’s Polling Station, resulting in injuries to some notable New Patriotic Party (NPP) members, including Mavis Hawa Koomson.

Speaking on Joy News’ AM Show on Monday, July 14, Ms Muslim called on political parties to rethink their methods of mobilisation, especially where they put young people’s lives at risk.

“We have all agreed that political parties have mobilised vigilante groups in the past. They have also used individuals to protect the ballot. Sometimes those activities lead to violence,” she stated.

Drawing from her personal life, Ms Muslim made it clear she would never allow her children to be caught in the crossfire of political battles.

“And I, as a mother of two boys, two girls, would never encourage my son to go and put himself in a line of risk that could lead to his death. I won’t do that as a person,” she said emphatically.

She further urged political parties to disband structures that jeopardise the safety of their supporters.

“I think political parties ought not to organise around vehicles that would threaten the lives of their own members,” she added.

Ms Muslim’s remarks come amid growing national concern over the role of political vigilante groups and their involvement in Ghana’s electoral processes.

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.

Ghana National Fire Service –

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Resource person speaking at the panel discussion

 

More than 10% of the National Health Insurance Scheme’s (NHIS) budgetary allocation goes towards financing healthcare for patients with hypertension and diabetes (non-communicable diseases), consistently ranking among the top five claims of the scheme.

This data was contained in a study jointly conducted by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare titled; Exploring Diabetes and Hypertension among NHIS and Non-NHIS Members in Ghana under the theme, “Access, Affordability, and Outcomes: Rethinking Diabetes and Hypertension Management in Ghana.”

The study, which involved 930 individuals living with one or both conditions across all regions, indicated that even though the 10% of total expenditure underscores the schemes financial and social impact, it does not fully shield patients from the high cost of medications and services, particularly for those relying on mixed financing methods or paying fully-out-of pocket.

According to Prof. Gordon Abeka Nkrumah of the University of Ghana Business School, recent estimates in Ghana indicate that approximately 6.4% of adults have diabetes, while over 30.3% live with hypertension. A 2025 study revealed that the mean cost of treating diabetes in Ghana is GH¢3,187.57, while the cost for hypertension is approximately GH¢869,106, ranging from GH¢570,239 to GH¢1,202 million.

“This translates into billions of cedis in lost productivity, increased healthcare spending, and reduced household welfare. While these two diseases are consuming over 10% of total claims expenditure, it is not just simply budgetary concern but a developmental crisis,” he mentioned.

Other sections of the report revealed that most patients (95.59%) were insured under NHIS and primarily sought care from primary-level facilities, with a striking 97.85% of these facilities credentialed by NHIA. Encouragingly, a high proportion of patients adhered to prescribed treatments (98.28%) and reported making dietary changes (81.4%). Nevertheless, engagement in physical activity (51.72%) and weight management (23.55%) remains low, even as obesity rates soar, with 58.39% of respondents classified under Obesity Class III.

Also, access to care is clearly improved through NHIS, with nearly 94% of enrollees reporting no barriers, compared to 38% of out-of-pocket (OOP) payers who faced significant difficulties. But while access is not enough, Prof. Nkrumah posed the following questions: “Are our primary care systems adequately resourced to provide routine, high-quality care for chronic disease patients?  Is the NHIS benefit package sustainable, given the growing burden of non-communicable diseases? What is the fate of the uninsured, who face catastrophic out-of-pocket spending, delayed diagnoses, and avoidable complications?”

To change this trajectory, Prof. Nkrumah called for the equipping of community clinics with diagnostics, medications and trained staff to handle non-communicable diseases (NCDs), massive campaign focused on nutrition, exercise, NCDs screening must be offered routinely through maternal health clinics, school health services among others.

Senior Director in charge of Special Initiatives at NHIA and Liaison to the Ministry of Health, Dr. Anthony Ginpong lamented on the inadequacy of professional health assistants at the community level, suggesting that, looking at the Tanzanian model, where health centres are equipped to handle immediate cases, reducing the need for hospital referrals. In contrast, Ghana’s doctors are concentrated in major hospitals like Korle Bu and Komfo Anokye, receiving complex cases that could have been managed at the community level. Dr. Ginpong emphasised the need for a redistribution of human resources, deploying well-trained professionals to serve in community settings to ensure that the concept of free primary healthcare is being developed to shift the focus from individual health to population health.

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

 

Over 13 countries request to recruit Ghana’s nurses, other health workers

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The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has revealed that Ghana has received formal requests from more than 13 countries interested in recruiting and deploying qualified nurses and other health professionals.

Mr. Akandoh made the disclosure on the floor of Parliament while updating the House on the recruitment of health workers, noting that the move forms part of the government’s strategy to reduce unemployment.

The Minister said the number of health workers currently seeking employment is substantial and far exceeds the commonly cited figure of 30,000.

However, 15,000 nurses received financial clearance and were employed in December 2024, with the process of placing them on the government payroll still ongoing.

Mr. Akandoh also noted that no financial clearance has been granted for allied health professionals since 2019, leaving 21,570 of them unemployed.

Similarly, no financial clearance has been issued for pharmacists since 2019, resulting in 1,621 remaining without jobs.

Regarding medical doctors, the Minister said the ministry has begun the process of recruiting over 900 doctors who are currently unemployed and awaiting placement.

“The problem is, therefore, enormous,” he admitted, “but we are committed to finding solutions to it.”

Over 500 removed from security services after recruitment audit

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More than 500 individuals have been removed from Ghana’s security services following a government review that uncovered irregularities in recruitment processes conducted before and after the December 2024 general election.

The announcement was made by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, on Monday, July 14, 2025, during the maiden edition of the Government Accountability Series in Accra.

According to the Minister, a special committee reviewed the records of approximately 5,200 recruits across key security agencies and discovered that hundreds did not meet the basic entry requirements.

The affected institutions include:

  • Ghana Police Service – about 320 disqualified
  • Ghana Immigration Service – roughly 730 removed
  • Narcotics Control Commission – around 50 affected

Mr. Muntaka explained that the review was prompted by public outcry over alleged irregularities in recruitment advertisements released in August 2024, just months before the elections. The Minority in Parliament had accused the previous administration of manipulating the process to favour political loyalists.

The audit examined academic qualifications, age limits, and medical fitness.

“We were able to get out about 320 who were not supposed to be there,” Mr. Muntaka said, referring to the Police Service. “Some were in their forties, diabetic, and medically unfit, but they were picked. We had to explain to them that with their condition, they could not remain in the service.”

He also recounted an incident involving a Member of Parliament who lobbied for a relative close to completing training. Upon further scrutiny, it was discovered the individual had failed all subjects in the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSSCE), which is the minimum academic requirement for entry.

“They called and said the person didn’t pass SSSCE—didn’t even record a single subject,” Mr. Muntaka noted. “Once you don’t meet the basic qualification, you have to go.”

He assured that each affected person received a written explanation for their removal.

To restore fairness and transparency, the Minister announced plans for new recruitment guidelines that clearly define technical and support roles.

Future recruitment will include non-academic positions for tradespeople such as drivers, dressmakers, cooks, and painters—but those selected will be recruited solely for those roles.

“I know people who went to vocational school and became dressmakers. The services need them to sew uniforms,” he said. “But they must know they’re being recruited as artisans, not officers.”

He emphasized that future job advertisements will clearly outline job roles and minimum qualifications to avoid confusion and ensure public confidence in the process.

Since the 2024 elections, concerns over professionalism and political interference within Ghana’s security services have intensified.

The emergence of reports about so-called “party foot soldiers” being enlisted into the services heightened calls for reform during the transition period.

The current recruitment audit is among the most comprehensive in recent years and forms part of the government’s broader effort to raise standards within the security sector.

The Government Accountability Series, introduced by the Presidency, aims to provide regular updates on ministerial performance and governance. Other ministers are expected to present their briefings in the coming weeks.

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.

A breakdown of Ghana’s domestic debt from 2020 to 2024

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Ghana's total domestic debt stands at GH¢304 billion as of December 2024 Ghana’s total domestic debt stands at GH¢304 billion as of December 2024

The Bank of Ghana has provided a detailed breakdown of Ghana’s domestic debt from 2020 to 2024.

According to the Central Bank’s 2024 Annual Report and Financial Statement, the country’s total domestic debt stood at GH¢304 billion at the end of 2024, up from GH¢159 billion in 2020.

The report states that Ghana’s domestic debt is held in short-term, medium-term, and long-term instruments, as well as standard loans.

The largest portion of the debt is held in medium-term instruments. These include the 3-year USD Domestic Bond (Old), 3-year Fixed Rate Bonds (Old and New), 5-year Government of Ghana (GoG) Bonds (Old and New), as well as the 6-, 7-, 8-, 9-, and 10-year GoG Bonds.

As of the end of 2024, the Bank of Ghana held a total of GH¢111.165 billion in short-term instruments. These include the 91-day, 182-day, and 364-day Treasury Bills, and the 1-year Treasury Note.

Short-term instruments have risen significantly over the years, from GH¢16.861 billion in 2020 to GH¢22.617 billion in 2021, GH¢24.192 billion in 2022, GH¢67.069 billion in 2023, and GH¢111.165 billion in 2024.

This sharp increase was driven by the country’s economic crisis, which forced the government to rely heavily on short-term instruments after being shut out of the international capital market due to high debt levels.

Standard loans remain the smallest component of Ghana’s domestic debt, amounting to GH¢1.068 billion as of the end of 2024.

See the composition of the country’s domestic debt from 2020-2024 below

SSD/MA

Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below:

IGP position should be free from political influence

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Ghanaian media personality, Nana Romeo says IGP position should be free from political influence Ghanaian media personality, Nana Romeo says IGP position should be free from political influence

Ghanaian entertainment pundit and media personality, Nana Romeo, has called for the position of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to be free from politics.

In a discussion on United Showbiz on July 13, 2025, Nana Romeo explained that because the role of the IGP is politically motivated, individuals who occupy the position are not able to work to the fullest without the fear of being sacked by a sitting government.

“I would suggest that the position of the IGP should not be a political appointment. If a government appoints an IGP, he is limited in taking actions in fear of being sacked by the sitting government,” he said.

Nana Romeo suggested that an individual can occupy the IGP role through a vote within the Ghana Police Service.

According to him, people appointed to occupy the IGP role through vote would prevent political inferences.

“I would suggest that the next IGP appointment should be done through votes. If such a thing happens, no political party can influence a person. That would give him the mandate to work without fear,” he expounded.

Nana Romeo’s comment comes in response to the recent election violence that transpired at the just-ended Ablekuma North election rerun on July 11, 2025.

During the election, tensions escalated with reports of voter intimidation, violent clashes, and arrests involving individuals wearing unapproved uniforms.

Watch the video below:

JHM/AE

Meanwhile, you can watch GhanaWeb TV’s exclusive interview with Arathejay below:

‘Thank you Ablekuma North, together we made history!’

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Ewurabena Aubynn is the Member of Parliament-elect for Ablekuma North Ewurabena Aubynn is the Member of Parliament-elect for Ablekuma North

Member of Parliament-elect for Ablekuma North, Ewurabena Aubynn, has expressed appreciation to constituents following her victory in the parliamentary rerun held on Friday, July 11, 2025.

In a post on her official X page on Sunday, July 13, 2025, Aubynn wrote, “Thank you, Ablekuma North Constituency, for your unwavering trust and support.

Together, we’ve made history! I am deeply honored to serve you and ready to work for every single one of you. This victory belongs to all of us.”

The Electoral Commission has declared her the winner of the fiercely contested rerun, which brought an end to months of electoral disputes and uncertainty stemming from the December 2024 general elections.

Ewurabena Aubynn, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), polled 34,090 votes to narrowly defeat her closest contender, the New Patriotic Party (NPP)’s Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes. A total of 411 ballots were rejected.

Her victory signals a new chapter for the people of Ablekuma North, who have been without a sitting MP for over seven months.

It brings the total number of the seats held by the NDC in parliament to 185.

Read her post below:

JKB/EB

Meanwhile, you can watch GhanaWeb TV’s exclusive interview with Arathejay below:

The Ghanaian scientist rewriting energy rules

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Isaac Owusu is a trailblazing Ghanaian petroleum engineer Isaac Owusu is a trailblazing Ghanaian petroleum engineer

As the world grapples with the energy-climate paradox, Isaac Owusu, a trailblazing Ghanaian petroleum engineer, is turning oil reservoirs into unexpected allies in the fight against climate change.

His pioneering research at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and now at the University of Wyoming could transform Africa’s energy future while tackling global warming head-on.

Owusu’s work reveals a brilliant two-for-one solution: using carbon dioxide (CO₂), the very gas heating our planet, to extract more oil while permanently trapping it underground.

At KNUST, his meticulous experiments mapped exactly how CO₂ behaves under Ghana’s specific oilfield conditions, providing the blueprint for cleaner, more efficient energy production.

“Most people see oil and climate action as opposites,” explains Owusu from his lab at the Center of Innovation for Flow Through Porous Media, Department of Energy and Petroleum Engineering, University of Wyoming, United States. “But our research shows how Ghana’s energy sector can actually become part of the climate solution.”

His findings demonstrate that CO₂ injection could boost output from declining Ghanaian oil fields by up to 20%, while simultaneously creating permanent carbon storage solutions.

Now, Owusu is pushing boundaries even further with nanotechnology research that could revolutionize the process. By engineering microscopic nanobubbles that make CO₂ more effective at flushing out stubborn oil, he’s developing what might become the next gold standard in responsible energy extraction.

The implications for developing nations are profound. Ghana’s Petroleum Commission estimates these techniques could extend the productive life of major fields like Jubilee by 10-15 years – providing crucial economic stability during the energy transition.

Even more compelling, the research opens doors to valuable carbon credit opportunities by turning depleted oil reservoirs into certified carbon vaults.

“What excites me most is developing homegrown solutions,” says Owusu. “We’re not just importing technology – we’re creating systems specifically designed for African geological conditions and economic needs.”

His work comes at a pivotal moment as Ghana seeks to maximize its petroleum resources while meeting climate commitments.

Energy experts worldwide are taking notice. Several major oil companies are already in talks about pilot projects based on Owusu’s findings.

Meanwhile, his nanobubble research shows surprising potential to benefit other sectors, from agriculture to water treatment – though his focus remains on sustainable energy solutions.

As international climate negotiations continue to struggle with energy equity issues, Owusu’s research offers something revolutionary: a practical pathway where developing nations don’t have to choose between economic growth and environmental responsibility.

The innovation edge is while global debates rage about energy futures, this rising star Ghanaian scientist is quietly building the tools to make oil part of the climate solution – one carbon molecule at a time.

World’s oldest president to seek eighth term

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President Paul Biya, pictured here in 2022, first came to power in 1982 President Paul Biya, pictured here in 2022, first came to power in 1982

The world’s oldest head of state, Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, 92, has said he will run once more for re-election in October, aiming to extend his 43 years in power.

“Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face,” he said in a post on X.

He added that his decision to go for an eighth term came after “numerous and insistent” calls by people from all regions in Cameroon and the diaspora.

Biya’s administration has faced criticism over corruption, embezzlement, bad governance, and failure to tackle security challenges. There have also been concerns about his health and ability to govern.

His absence from the public for more than six weeks last year led to speculation about his well-being and unfounded rumours that he had died.

His candidacy was expected but not formally confirmed until Sunday’s social media post.

Biya has never lost an election since taking power in 1982, and if he wins another seven-year term, he could be president until he is nearly 100.

There have been growing calls from inside and outside Cameroon for him to step aside and give way for fresh leadership in the central African nation.

His candidacy follows a recent political divorce from key allies from the northern regions, who had been crucial in helping secure votes in previous elections from that part of the country.

Two of these men, prominent minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary and former Prime Minister Bello Bouba Maigari, recently quit the ruling coalition and separately announced plans to run in the election.

Last month, Tchiroma said the Biya administration he belonged to had “broken” public trust and he was switching to a rival party.

Multiple opposition figures, including 2018 runner-up Maurice Kamto, as well as Joshua Osih, Akere Muna, and Cabral Libii, have also announced their candidacies.

However, members of the governing Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement and other supporters have since last year publicly called for Biya to seek another term. He was already the de facto candidate as the party leader.

Biya abolished term limits in 2008, enabling him to seek the presidency indefinitely.

He won the 2018 elections with more than 71% of the vote, although opposition groups accused the process of widespread irregularities.

Alice Kusi rallies Black Queens to play for the badge ahead of Tanzania clash

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Black Quuens face Tanzania in a must win game Black Quuens face Tanzania in a must win game

Black Queens forward Alice Kusi has called on her teammates to put excuses aside and fight for pride as Ghana prepare for their final group game at the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Monday, July 14, 2025.

The Queens have had a disappointing start to the tournament in Morocco, sitting bottom of Group C with just a point from their opening two games, a 2-0 defeat to South Africa and a 1-1 draw against Mali.

With qualification hopes hanging by a thread, Kusi believes it is time for the team to put everything on the line when they face Tanzania on Monday evening.

“We have our last game to play at the WAFCON. The excuses are too much. It’s better we put everything aside and play for the badge,” Kusi said, speaking to the media ahead of the match.

The dynamic attacker admitted the players have tried their best so far but insists results are all that matter at this level.

“I’m not saying we didn’t do our best previously, but football is about results,” she added.

Kusi pointed to how the gap in quality has narrowed in recent years, citing Morocco’s improvement as an example Ghana must learn from.

“We used to lash Morocco after staying in camp for just a week. But we can’t do that anymore because they have improved. If we get to play together at every FIFA break, we’ll get better. It’s what Morocco did. It’s not extraordinary.

Coming together brings unity and helps us improve tactically,” she said.

To reach the knockout stage, Ghana must beat Tanzania and hope South Africa do them a favour by defeating Mali in the other final Group C fixture. Kick-off for the crucial clash against Tanzania is at 19:00 GMT.

FKA/MA

Watch as Ghanaians speak out on Thomas Partey’s rape charge, suggest fresh start in Saudi Arabia

“If you live by the sword, you must die by the sword”

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A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) legal and communications team, Victor Kwadjoga Adawudu, has condemned the assault on former Fisheries Minister Mavis Hawa Koomson during the parliamentary rerun in the Ablekuma North Constituency, but says her political history may have influenced the reaction she received.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Monday, July 14, Adawudu said that while the attack on the former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East is unacceptable, her past conduct in Ghanaian politics might have contributed to the hostility she encountered.

“Why will you even go to a polling station holding pepper spray? What was the motive? You are only going there to monitor, so why go with that?” he questioned. “People from the NPP were there, high-ranking people, and they were not attacked. She should have known. I have always said that if you live by the sword, you must always die by the sword.”

Adawudu argued that Koomson’s political brand has long been associated with aggressive conduct, which may have heightened tensions upon her arrival at the polling centre.

“The optics and the brand for Mavis Hawa Koomson are associated with violence, which may not be good for her. When she arrived and the tension rose, her intelligence should have warned her that the place was not safe for her. This is not a justification. Of course, the incident should be condemned.”

The incident occurred on Friday, July 11, when a group of unidentified men stormed the St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church polling station, disrupting the election process and causing panic among voters and officials.

Channel One News’ Jude Duncan reported that both Hawa Koomson and the NPP’s parliamentary candidate, Nana Akua Afriyie, were physically assaulted during the chaos, with both sustaining facial injuries.

Security personnel were later deployed to restore calm and allow the polls to proceed.

The Electoral Commission organised the rerun in 19 polling stations across Ablekuma North to resolve an outstanding dispute from the December 7, 2024, general elections. The constituency had remained without a Member of Parliament since then.

At the close of polls on July 11, the NDC’s Ewurabena Aubynn was declared the MP-elect with 34,090 votes, narrowly defeating the NPP’s Nana Akua Afriyie, who polled 33,881 votes.

Buhari Will Be Remembered for His Commitment to a United Nigeria – Nana Addo 

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Nana Akufo-Addo and Muhammadu Buhari

Former President Nana Akufo-Addo has joined world leaders in expressing his condolences following the death of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London at the age of 82.

 In a Facebook post, Nana Akufo-Addo described the former Nigerian President as an outstanding Nigerian patriot and a staunch African integrationist.

He wrote, “This morning, I join many on the continent and across the world to mourn and celebrate the illustrious life of my good friend and former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, who, as I have been solemnly informed, passed away yesterday.”

“The redoubtable Muhammadu Buhari was an outstanding Nigerian patriot and a staunch African integrationist. He was well-known to us in Ghana, which he visited often in his youth and belonged to the generation of young West Africans who became involved in the tumultuous events of the early years of independence, including the Nigerian Civil War,” he added.

Nana Akufo-Addo also recounted his moment with the late president, which involved successfully hammering out the Accra Initiative, a potent blueprint for strengthening operational collaboration against terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organized crime, and the downward drift of terrorist activities from the Sahel to the Coastal States.

 “He led the mighty Federal Republic of Nigeria to sign up for the African Continental Free Trade Area, thereby considerably enhancing its prospects of success. His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, will be remembered for his exemplary patriotism, his commitment to a united Nigeria, and his deep concern for the social and economic development of the Nigerian people. May his soul continue to rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Almighty,” the post added.

Muhammadu Buhari Former aide, Bashir Ahmad, announced the passing of the former President on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “The family of the former President has announced the passing of Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon at a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus. Amin.”

The Nigerian Presidency also confirmed the news on its X page, indicating that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had spoken with Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the former President’s widow, and offered his deep condolences. According to the statement, President Tinubu ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to proceed to the United Kingdom to accompany Muhammadu Buhari’s body back to Nigeria.

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

GH₵1 fuel levy takes effect July 16; transport operators warn of fare hike

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The government’s proposed GH¢1.00 per litre fuel levy is set to take effect on Wednesday, July 16, after a brief postponement to allow for further consultations.

The levy, aimed at restoring stability in the country’s power sector, has faced strong opposition from the minority in Parliament as well as key stakeholders in the transport and oil industries.

However, the Coalition of Commercial Transport Operators is calling for the suspension of the policy, describing it as a “reckless and retrogressive” tax imposed without adequate stakeholder engagement.

The Coalition—which represents over 90% of commercial transport providers nationwide—warns that if the levy is implemented as planned, commuters should expect a nationwide 30% increase in transport fares starting July 16.

Speaking to Citi News, Charles Danso, Chairman of the Ghana Committed Drivers Association, said the levy is unsustainable and would drive many operators out of business.

“This is not just a GH¢1 tax. We are already paying a 17.2% tax component on electricity, which includes drivers. Now the government wants to impose another levy on fuel—it’s unbearable,” he said.

“If the government refuses to listen to us, we will have no option but to pass the cost onto commuters by increasing fares by 30%.”

COPEC, GPRTU demand clarity and timelines on new GH¢1 fuel levy

Nigerian Afrobeats star Tems makes history in front of President Trump

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Nigerian Afrobeats star Tems makes history performing at the FIFA Club World Cup halftime show in front of President Donald Trump.

Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems made history by becoming the first African artist to headline the halftime show at the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup final.

Nigerian Afrobeats star Tems continues her new affair with San Diego as they play a frustrating goalless draw against St. Louis

Nigerian Afrobeats star Tems poses with NBA Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy.

Tems was the star of the halftime show held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Tems performed alongside international stars Doja Cat and J Balvin, curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay.

Nigerian Afrobeats star Tems makes history performing at the FIFA Club World Cup halftime show in front of President Donald Trump.

Tems at FIFA Club World Cup

Tems’ performance marked her as the first Nigerian to perform at the FIFA Club World Cup.

The halftime show, strategically positioned above the stands to preserve the pitch showed Tems in her element.

Adding to the event’s prominence, Tems performed in front of U.S. President Donald Trump, who was in attendance,.

This achievement is a testament to Tems’ rising prominence in the international music scene.

Nigerian Afrobeats star Tems makes history performing at the FIFA Club World Cup halftime show in front of President Donald Trump.

It follows her Grammy win earlier in the year as she continues to make a name for herself.

She witness Chelsea defeat Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 thanks to two goals from Cole Palmer and one from Joao Pedro.

Tems has also ventured into football, recently purchasing a stake in Major League Soccer side San Diego FC.

CODEO Condemns Violence, Vote Buying, Security Failures in Ablekuma North Rerun

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The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has issued a strong condemnation of widespread acts of violence, intimidation, vote buying, and serious security failures that marred the Ablekuma North Constituency election rerun held on Friday, July 11, 2025.

Joseph Oti Frimpong, the Coordinator of the CODEO Secretariat, expressed grave concern over what it described as incidences of vote buying, serious lapses in security, intimidation, and violence.”

Bank of Ghana unveils full line-up for Cedi@60 anniversary

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Bank of Ghana Headquarters Bank of Ghana Headquarters

The Bank of Ghana has provided details of the celebration marking the 60th anniversary of the cedi.

The Central Bank noted that, following the announcement of 60 years since the issuance of the cedi as Ghana’s sole legal tender, falling on July 19, 2025, various programmes and activities have been planned to commemorate the milestone.

The official launch of the celebration will take place in August at the Accra International Conference Centre under the theme; “60 Years of the Cedi: A Symbol of Sovereignty, Stability, and Economic Resilience.”

In collaboration with the National Museum of Science and Technology and mobile museum exhibitions, the celebration will include the launch of a Currency Museum.

Additionally, there will be an educational campaign on topics such as:

Cash handling (Keep the Cedi Clean)

Currency lifecycle (Currency Process Chart)

Security features (Know the Cedi)

In September, the Bank will embark on community outreach forums to engage stakeholders through interactive dialogue, alongside roadshows dubbed “Cedi Week.”

In October, the Bank will organise a national essay competition, a currency-themed quiz, and a festival known as CediFest.

The main Cedi@60 anniversary event will be held in November at the Accra International Conference Centre, in partnership with the Currency Research Department.

The celebrations will conclude with a Thanksgiving Service in December 2025.

“The Bank of Ghana extends an invitation to institutions, organisations, stakeholders, development partners, and the general public to join the Bank in celebrating this important milestone,” the BoG stated in a notice dated July 14, 2025.

SSD/MA

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Akufo-Addo has not called for NPP Delegates Conference postponement – Wontumi

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Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Benard Antwi-Bosiako Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Benard Antwi-Bosiako

The Ashanti regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Benard Antwi Bosiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has refuted claims that the former president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has asked the party to postpone its early National Delegates Conference scheduled for Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

According to a report by Wontumionline.com, he made this known in an interview on Movement TV on Monday, July 14, 2025.

Chairman Wontumi stated that the former president supports the decision by the party’s National Council saying “I am an Akufo-Addo loyalist and if he had decided otherwise, he would have informed me. He speaks to me like a son, and I speak to him as a dad”.

He explained that the decision by NPP’s National Council to hold its early conference on January 31, 2026, remains unchanged.

“It is the National Council that has power to select a date for the election. They have spoken and settled on 31 January. They have arranged venue and the bus to bring in the delegates”, he said.

Chairman Wontumi further urged members of the NPP to show President Akufo-Addo respect and stop “disgracing” him in public.

“Akufo-Addo hasn’t spoken. People should stop putting words in his mouth. We should be celebrating him not disgracing him”, he said.

The NPP’s annual delegates conference is expected to draw thousands of party delegates from across the country and will be crucial in shaping the party’s direction ahead of the 2028 general elections.

JKB/AME

Meanwhile, you can watch GhanaWeb TV’s exclusive interview with Arathejay below:

A Data Lens on Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy

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On a global stage, the idea of a 24-hour economy isn’t new. Cities like New York have long been dubbed “the city that never sleeps,” while in countries like the UAE, India, and China, manufacturing hubs run on night and day shifts to meet global demand. Now, Ghana is considering a similar leap, with President John Mahama unveiling an eight-pillar framework aimed at positioning Ghana as a round-the-clock economy.

At its core, the 24-hour economy is about extending economic activity beyond the usual 9–5. It’s about running factories through the night, keeping ports active beyond business hours, and opening up job opportunities for more people in more shifts. But as exciting as it sounds, the question many are asking is: Are we ready?

As a research analyst, I find this moment both ambitious and thought-provoking. Not because the vision isn’t bold, but because execution will rest heavily on data, planning, and how well we understand what works elsewhere.

What Makes a 24-Hour Economy Work?

Countries that have successfully adopted this model often have a few things in common:

  • Reliable infrastructure: Think electricity, transportation, and internet.
  • Security: People must feel safe commuting or working at night.
  • Incentives for businesses: Lower tariffs, tax breaks, or flexible labor laws.
  • Demand: There’s usually a need—local or global—for products or services that justify the extended hours.

For instance, in parts of India, tech hubs and export processing zones run on multiple shifts to meet global time zones. In China, factories in cities like Shenzhen operate round-the-clock because of both local demand and international contracts. These models show that with the right systems in place, working through the night can indeed boost productivity, exports, and jobs.

Ghana’s Position: Where We Stand

Ghana has some building blocks in place:

  • Our youth population is growing, and many are underemployed. The 24-hour model could absorb some of that energy.
  • Initiatives like Ghana.gov, digital ID systems, and mobile money penetration already support digital public services beyond office hours.
  • Key industries like agriculture, logistics, mining, and light manufacturing could benefit from running longer hours.

But we must also be honest:

  • Energy supply remains inconsistent in some areas.
  • Security concerns, especially at night, are real for workers and businesses alike.
  • Transport systems do not yet support mass commuting late into the night.

According to the President, one of the key goals of the 24-hour economy is to shift Ghana away from being an import-driven economy. As of 2023, imports accounted for about 35% of GDP, while exports made up just over 34%, reflecting a narrow but critical trade imbalance. If implemented well, extended operations, particularly in manufacturing, agriculture, and port logistics, could help boost exports, reduce dependency on imports, and reposition Ghana as a more productive, self-reliant economy

What the Data Tells Us

We don’t have to dive into heavy models to see the potential here: according to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), the national youth unemployment rate is over 13%, with broader underemployment affecting even more people. That means roughly 1 in 8 young Ghanaians is officially unemployed – an opportunity gap that the 24-hour economy aims to address.

At the same time, Fitch Solutions projects a headline unemployment rate of around 4% in 2025. This difference highlights a known challenge: the headline rate masks substantial youth-specific and underemployment pressures. As a researcher, this tells me two things:

  • There’s clear space for targeted night-shift jobs to absorb this excess labour, especially if accurately tracked and monitored.
  • Any policy success must be measured not merely by headline employment gains, but by how much youth unemployment and underemployment decline.

Indicative sectors like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and digital services could gain significantly if they shift to multi-shift operations. Simple data points like increases in formal shift-based job registrations or nighttime electricity usage can offer early signs of success

Also, the majority of our exports happen during peak hours, creating congestion and delays. If customs and port services operated longer, clearance times could drop, and more goods could leave our shores on time.

These are the little things that add up in the big picture.

Start Smart, Measure as You Go

Ghana is moving ahead with the 24-hour economy—and rightly so, the President emphasized today that success will depend on how well we implement, not just how bold the idea is. His call for a coordinated, strategic rollout should guide how this vision takes shape.

The focus now should be on phased adoption. Let’s begin with sectors that are structurally ready, like manufacturing zones, hospitals, transport, or digital service hubs. Then scale as we learn what works.

More importantly, we must measure. If this model is going to deliver, we need to keep asking:

  • Are more businesses operating at night?
  • Are workers safe, fairly compensated, and productive?
  • Are energy systems and infrastructure holding up?

These questions aren’t just checkboxes; they’re indicators of whether this bold shift is truly working for the people it aims to serve.

Final Thoughts

Ghana has always been capable of bold ideas. The 24-hour economy is one of them. But ideas need structure. They need data. And they need honest conversations about what is realistically possible now, and what must be built over time.

Let’s not be afraid of the night, but let’s make sure it works for the people who will carry its weight.

About the author:

David Nii Armaah is a top-tech Researcher and an Industry voice. He possesses the analytical skills of an applied researcher and expertise in data, technology, innovation, and digital entrepreneurship.

Connect via LinkedIn: David Nii Amaah

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.

Details of National Security vs Customs case over impounded trucks diversion

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One of the trucks impounded by the National Security One of the trucks impounded by the National Security

Seven long-haul trucks transporting export goods to Burkina Faso were impounded by National Security operatives in the Ashanti Region on July 13, 2025.

The National Security claimed the trucks were impounded on suspicion of diverting goods, as the vehicles were intercepted unloading the goods in Kumasi rather than continuing to their intended destination.

According to National Security, the trucks were cleared at the Tema Port and destined for neighboring Burkina Faso; however, they suspected that the vehicles diverted from their route in an attempt to evade border duty payments.

The trucks were intercepted at Nkawkaw, in the Eastern Region, and escorted to Kumasi as part of investigations by National Security officials to ascertain the actual destination.

Although the truck drivers maintained they were transporting goods to Burkina Faso, officials argued the consignment was being diverted to Kumasi and other parts of the Ashanti Region in an alleged attempt by the owners to evade taxes.

They also added that they collaborated with Customs officers to escort all the trucks to Kumasi.

However, it appears that a conflict has emerged between National Security and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, with the latter disputing the former’s claims.

In response to the National Security’s claim that the trucks were diverting goods to evade tax payments, the Customs Division issued a surprising counterstatement, asserting that the vehicles were following their approved route and refuting allegations of diversion.

Peter Ofori Antobreh, Deputy Commissioner for Preventive at the Customs Division, described the National Security’s claims as misleading and inaccurate, while speaking in an interview with Citi News on Monday, July 14, 2025.

He maintained that no diversions had occurred, stating that his unit was actively monitoring the trucks, and surveillance confirmed that they had not engaged in any illegal activities.

“The vehicles were on the right path, there was nothing like diversion. The vehicles were being monitored by Customs and were not involved in anything untoward,” Antobreh stated.

The Customs Division’s rebuttal and newly disclosed information regarding the impounded trucks have raised alarming concerns about the lack of collaboration and coordination between the two key government agencies, as well as weaknesses in monitoring the movement of goods across Ghana’s borders.

MAG/AE

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Professor Kwabena Opuni appointed acting CEO of Food and Drugs Authority

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New FDA boss Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni (L) with former FDA boss Delese Darko (R) New FDA boss Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni (L) with former FDA boss Delese Darko (R)

‎President John Dramani Mahama has named Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni as the new acting Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), effective Monday, July 14, 2025.



‎In a post shared on its official social media pages, the FDA announced that Opuni will take over from Delese Darko, who served as Chief Executive Officer from 2017 until her recent appointment as Director-General of the Africa Medicines Agency (AMA).



‎FDA expressed gratitude to Darko for her years of committed service, highlighting her contributions to strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing public safety, and fostering international partnerships.



‎Her new role at the AMA is widely seen as recognition of her outstanding leadership in the regulatory health sector.



‎The Authority extended its congratulations to Professor Opuni on his new appointment and affirmed its full confidence in his capability to lead the FDA in its core mission of protecting public health through the regulation of food, medicines, and other related products.

‎”The FDA extends its warmest congratulations to Prof. Opuni on his appointment & looks forward to his leadership in advancing the Authority’s mandate of safeguarding public health & safety” it stated.



‎With a background in pharmaceutical analysis and public health policy, he is expected to strengthen the FDA’s regulatory systems, enhance stakeholder collaboration, and drive innovation in ensuring the safety and quality of products on the Ghanaian market.

‎‎

‎DR/MA



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We have everything in our hands

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Black Queens coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren Black Queens coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren

Black Queens coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren thinks Ghana deserved more than one point from their first two games at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, but he is confident the team can still control their destiny.

Ghana takes on Tanzania in their final Group C match with a win guaranteeing their spot in the next stage of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The Black Queens earned just one point from their matches against South Africa and Mali, leaving them at the bottom of Group C.

“We are disappointed with one point. We think that we deserve more,” Bjorkegren said as he faced the press on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

“Now we have everything in our own hands, and that is to make sure to win the game tomorrow.”

A win for either of the two sides will seal a place in the quarterfinals of the competition.

PM/AME

You can also watch some Ghanaians’ reactions to Thomas Partey’s rape charge

NPP bans all forms of campaign-related materials ahead of its 2025 National Delegates Conference

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By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has issued a strict directive banning all forms of campaign-related materials ahead of its 2025 National Annual Delegates Conference, slated for Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

Per the directives, no billboards, banners, posters, flyers, T-shirts, or souvenirs bearing the branding of aspirants will be allowed, not just at the venue but within Accra at large.

Ahafo Ano South West district assembly to institute best worker awards 

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By Charles Tawiah

Mankranso (Ash) July 14 – GNA – The Ahafo Ano South West District Assembly has set out an initiative to reward hard working staff as part of efforts to encourage and motivate staff to give out their best. 

Mr. Abubakar Sedik, the District Chief Executive (DCE), who made this known, said he had devoted his one month salary to be given to three workers who would emerge as best workers for this year. 

Addressing a staff durbar at Mankranso, Mr Sedik tasked the District Coordinating Director (DCD) to set up a planning committee to institute the annual Best Worker Awards Ceremony for the Assembly. 

He said the awards was a gesture to motivate workers for their selfless service to support his vision and developmental agenda of the district. 

“I am here to empower you to do your best for the development of our people”, he stated, and called for unity, cooperation and commitment to duty. 

Mr Sedik urged the staff to avoid lateness and absenteeism and work hard to improve productivity. 

Mr. Paul Atsu Agebezudor, the Deputy Coordinating Director, commended the DCE for his commitment to the staff welfare and rallied the workers to continue to work hard towards the achievement of the developmental vision of the DCE. 

GNA 

Edited by Kwabia Owusu-Mensah/Christian Akorlie  

Police have questions to answer – Adawudu

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A member of the NDC Legal and Communications Team, Victor Kwadjoga Adawudu, has criticised the Ghana Police Service for its handling of the violent incidents that marred the parliamentary rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency, saying the security agency has serious questions to answer.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Monday, July 14, Adawudu condemned both the chaotic scenes at polling centres and the conduct of some police officers, including the assault on a journalist.

“For me, the police have questions to answer, especially when even a senior police officer had to slap people. I think that the police need to up their game,” he stated.

His remarks follow violent scenes during the rerun held on Friday, July 11, at various polling centres, including St. Peter’s Methodist Church and North Odorkor Polling Station 2.

At the St. Peter’s Methodist Church, a group of unidentified macho men stormed the voting centre, disrupting the process and assaulting political figures, including NPP parliamentary candidate, Nana Akua Afriyie and former Fisheries Minister, Mavis Hawa Koomson.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived in a highly coordinated fashion, causing panic among voters and leading to a temporary suspension of the exercise. Security personnel intervened to restore calm and resume the voting process.

However, the Police Service is being blamed for failing to effectively manage the situation.

Adding to the concerns about security lapses, a police officer reportedly assaulted a GHOne TV journalist at the North Odorkor Church of Pentecost Polling Station 2.

According to Citi News’ Fauzu Masawudu, the incident occurred when the journalist, Agyekum Banahene, attempted to access the inner perimeter to cover the elections.

Banahene explained that the officer ordered him to leave, despite other journalists being present. When he refused, citing his journalistic duty, the officer allegedly slapped him.

The incident has drawn sharp criticism from the media and civil society actors, who argue that the safety of journalists and adherence to press freedom were compromised.

‘Buhari Achieved Nothing Apart From Killing, Stealing From Nigerians’ – DJ Switch

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Nigerian disc jockey, Obianuju Catherine Udeh, popularly known as DJ Switch, has described the death of former president Muhammadu Buhari as the “sweet reality of inevitability.”

Shortly after the news of Buhari’s death broke on Sunday, July 13, 2025, DJ Switch took to her Instagram story with a brief post that read: “Wow!

Passengers stranded as robbers take over Kumasi-Techiman Highway

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Vehicular movement was brought to a halt at Nkenkasu in the Offinso North District of the Ashanti Region following a brazen highway robbery involving gunfire along the busy Kumasi-Techiman highway.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of the day, left several passengers and pedestrians stranded as drivers abandoned their vehicles in search of safety.

Eyewitnesses reported that the armed men blocked portions of the road and opened fire indiscriminately, targeting vehicles suspected to be carrying valuables.

Though no fatalities were immediately reported, several passengers were said to have lost cash and personal belongings during the incident.

The attack is the latest in a string of armed robberies along the stretch, raising serious concerns among commuters and transport operators. Residents claim this is the fourth such attack in the area within just one month.

The incident triggered panic, with many travelers fleeing into nearby bushes until the area was deemed safe.

Traffic was disrupted for hours until security personnel were deployed to restore order and clear the route for safe passage.

Commuters and residents have renewed calls for increased police patrols along the Kumasi-Techiman highway, which they say has become a growing hotspot for armed robbery attacks.


Interior minister addresses Ghanaians at 1st ‘Government Accountability Series’

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Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka is the Minister for the Interior play videoMohammed-Mubarak Muntaka is the Minister for the Interior

The Office of the President is holding its first “Government Accountability Series” tomorrow, Monday, July 14, 2025.

The initiative, according to the Presidency Communications, forms part of efforts to deepen transparency and accountability in governance.

A statement issued by the Presidency Communications explained that “The series will offer a platform for a tentative appraisal of the government’s performance over the last six months. Key sector ministers will present mid-year updates on their sector’s performance.”

“The series will be held three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — at 11 a.m.”

The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, is kicking off the series on Monday.

Watch a livestream of the series below:

BAI

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US Visa Restrictions fuel Ghanaian outrage, stoking economic concerns

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A seismic shift in United States visa policy for Ghanaian citizens raises concerns about economic impact, educational dreams, and the very fabric of transnational families.

Diplomatic and certain family-based visas continue to provide their multi-entry benefits. However, the new policy is a major setback for the majority, dramatically limiting travel for business, tourism, and especially student travel.

The U.S. State Department, Bureau of Consular Affairs, attributes these changes to a global reciprocity realignment, a shift from previous visa terms, which often allowed for multiple entries over two years or more.

It emphasises the need to align visa privileges with those offered by Ghana to U.S. citizens. This move reflects similar policy revisions implemented for other countries, including Nigeria. It signals a broader trend in U.S. immigration enforcement. The policy, far from being simply an administrative adjustment, carries profound and often painful human implications. It is indeed testing the resilience of Ghanaian aspirations and the diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Dreams Deferred, Businesses at Risk

For the average Ghanaian who might previously have had aspirations for multiple trips to the crowded shopping malls of New York or the tropical beaches of Florida, the harsh reality of a single-entry, three-month visa for B-class categories (business and tourism) is a daunting obstacle.

“This isn’t just about a vacation,” said Ama Sutherland, a textile importer from Accra. “My business relies on regular trips to the U.S. to source materials. Now, every three months, I have to reapply, pay new fees, and face the uncertainty of approval. It’s a direct attack on my livelihood.”

This sentiment is being felt across Ghana’s business sector as the increased costs and unpredictable processing times are threatening to stifle growth and sever essential trade connections. With the average monthly living income in Ghana around $300 USD (approximately ¢3,126 GHS), the added expenses of frequent visa applications—each typically costing $185 (approximately ¢1,927.7 GHS)for B-class visas and possibly a new $250 (approximately ¢2,605 GHS) “visa integrity fee” for issuance starting in 2026—can become impossible to bear.

Research has indicated that if visa restrictions are made too stringent, it can lead to a sharp decline in tourist arrivals and enormous revenue loss for the tourism industry. For a developing economy like Ghana’s, every obstacle to trade and tourism is a blow to its growth and its people, impacting industries already grappling with economic challenges and potentially moving business and leisure travel to other destinations that are more convenient and less prohibitive for visitors to Ghana.

The Students’ Dilemma

The impact on Ghanaian students is particularly poignant. What once was an F-1 visa allowing for multi-year academic programmes with opportunities to come back home for holidays now offers but one entry and three months’ validity. This means that a Ghanaian student wishing to go home to Accra for Christmas with their family must reapply for a new visa to continue school, a process fraught with anxiety, expense, and potential delays.

“My education is my future,” said Kwame Marfo, a Ghanaian student pursuing engineering in Texas. “The thought of not being able to see my family for years, or having to reapply and risk my visa every time I leave the U.S., is heartbreaking. It makes me question if studying abroad is worth this emotional and financial burden.”

This concern is compounded by recent reports that the Trump administration has, in recent times, demonstrated fresh interest in the process of scrutinising student visa applicants, including expanded social media vetting. The pressure is a reality; Ghana, for the first time, made it to the U.S. State Department watch list due to an observed student visa overstay rate of 21%, exceeding the U.S. acceptable limit of 15%.

This data, acknowledged by Ghanaian authorities, is reflective of students caught between a rock and a hard place: striving for education abroad, but facing challenges that will put to the test their determination and financial resources.

This might lead some Ghanaian students to turn to countries like Canada or the United Kingdom. These countries have been active in aggressively recruiting foreign students and may have more liberal visa frameworks.

In addition, entry points for post-study work, potentially diminishing the flow of Ghanaian talent to American institutions.

Reciprocity or Restriction

While the U.S. government maintains that these changes are based on reciprocity and addressing concerns about visa overstay rates, particularly among certain African nations, including Ghana. The government of Ghana has voiced its strong disapproval.

“Ghana has always cooperated with the U.S. authorities in the processing and removal of Ghanaian citizens who have been cited for deportation,” stated a spokesperson for Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, expressing “concern and disappointment” at the U.S. decision.

This underscores a perceived imbalance, where Ghana feels it has upheld its end of the relationship, yet its nationals face increasingly restrictive measures.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa further confirmed that 56 out of 188 Ghanaians listed for deportation by U.S. authorities had already returned home, emphasising Ghana’s cooperation.

The U.S. perspective

These measures are framed within the broader context of maintaining the integrity and security of its borders and immigration system. A U.S. State Department spokesperson, when discussing similar reciprocity adjustments, reiterated that “visa criteria and standards are designed to protect the integrity of U.S. immigration systems.

These standards are based on global technical and security benchmarks, and “visa reciprocity is a continuous process and is subject to review and change at any time, such as increasing or decreasing permitted entries and duration of validity.”

The U.S. Embassy in Accra recently reinforced its visa policy. They reminded visa holders that “A US visa is a privilege, not a right.” This statement resonated deeply across Ghanaian social media. For some, it felt uncomfortable. This highlights the U.S. commitment to ensuring compliance with immigration laws to prevent overstays and other violations, a critical component of their national security system.

Effect on Bilateral Ties

This policy shift, though framed within the technicalities of international relations, is deeply personal for Ghanaians. It touches on dreams of exploration, the pursuit of knowledge, and the very fabric of family connections. The hope remains that ongoing dialogue between the U.S. and Ghanaian governments can lead to a more balanced approach. It will ease these burdens while still addressing legitimate security concerns and ensuring that the cherished bonds between the two nations continue.

The policy’s impact extends far beyond individual travellers. It is affecting the very dynamics of U.S.-Ghana relations. This could potentially hinder future collaborations in trade, education, and cultural exchange. Furthermore, it sends a message of uncertainty. This uncertainty might deter even those with sincere intentions of travel and study.

The long-term impact on the strong U.S.-Ghana relations relies on a path that must acknowledge the concerns of both countries. It must also avoid unfairly penalising the hopes of everyday Ghanaians. Otherwise, it risks fostering resentment. It could even inadvertently undermine the principles that have historically strengthened the bond between the United States and Ghana.

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.

I hired a fake wife; now she won’t leave

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File photo of a worried man File photo of a worried man

Dear GhanaWeb,

I am a 33-year-old man who is gay. I have a partner who is 28 years old. We are very happy together, but unfortunately, it’s an abomination in this part of our world to engage in a same-sex affair.

In my family, we marry within the ages of 20 to 24 because we are well-to-do and we believe in growing up together with our kids.

When I turned 26 and was not married, I started receiving complaints and pressure from my parents and other relatives. Even my kid brother wanted me to marry so he could follow.

I paid a lady GH₵5 million to marry me and pretend to live with me for a while before she left, which we accomplished without anyone noticing.

The lady is aware I’m gay, and she has signed to keep it a secret. My partner comes to the house and we enjoy ourselves.

The problem now is that it’s been seven years, and this lady hasn’t left the house yet. Instead, she brings in her lover, and they indulge in sexual affairs all over the place.

My partner is worried about her behaviour, but anytime we ask her to leave, she threatens to expose me to my family. She eats my food, uses everything in the house, drives my cars, takes money from me and even takes money from my parents, though I paid her off.

My lover and I adopted a child, and he’s five now. This is just to make my family feel like the lady and I have a kid when it’s actually otherwise. She uses everything to take unnecessary money from my family.

She crashed my dad’s Tesla and did the same to one of his other cars last year. I hate the fact that I have to pretend we are happy couples when people come visiting.

The agreement was that she’ll leave after a kid is adopted, so I just keep telling my family she’s abroad. We had to wait two years before adopting because we wanted it to seem she flew out to have the baby before returning, and even that cost me almost GH₵7million.

She has made all this money from me, yet she’s not leaving. She is getting out of hand, and I want a way to send her out of the house. I want to do this peacefully without being exposed to my family.

Last month, my partner and I planned to poison her, but I felt they might find out she was poisoned, so we let her live. I’m just scared we may do something harmful to her if this doesn’t stop.

What should I do or say to her for her to leave us alone? Will I be caught if I poison her? I’m devastated, and I need help.

FG/SEA

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‘Hawa Koomson’s attackers were not residents of Ablekuma North’

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Ewurabena Aubynn and Mavis Hawa Koomson Ewurabena Aubynn and Mavis Hawa Koomson

The Member of Parliament-elect for Ablekuma North, Ewurabena Aubynn, has condemned the assault on former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson, during the recent parliamentary election rerun.

In an interview on Adom FM, and monitored by GhanaWeb on Monday, July 14, 2025, Aubynn expressed worry over the violent incident.

“I have watched Hawa Koomson’s assault videos. I condemn the assault. I wouldn’t have been happy if it were me,” the MP-elect stated.

She further disclosed that she had inquired about the perpetrators and gathered that they were not residents of the constituency.

“I had information that in the past, she (Hawa Koomson) allegedly had a problem with some people. I also heard it might be an attack of vengeance. But I can tell you on authority that the perpetrators are not from Ablekuma North,” she added.

According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers overwhelmed the security detail and physically assaulted several individuals, including Hawa Koomson.

She was reportedly shoved to the ground and stomped in the chest and groin before officers intervened to rescue her.

The attack occurred amid heightened tensions in the constituency, which has faced months of legal and political turmoil following the disputed December 2024 general elections.

The rerun ended with Ewurabena Aubynn of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) declared the winner, polling 34,090 votes to edge past the New Patriotic Party (NPP)’s Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes. A total of 411 ballots were rejected.

Her victory marks a new chapter for the people of Ablekuma North, who have been without a sitting MP for over seven months.

With this win, the NDC now holds 185 seats in Parliament, giving it an absolute majority.

JKB/AE

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EBID mention in E&P dispute was inappropriate and unauthorised

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E&P signed a $100 million facility with ECOWAS bank for the Black Volta Gold Project E&P signed a $100 million facility with ECOWAS bank for the Black Volta Gold Project

Azumah Resources has issued a formal clarification regarding the involvement of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) in its ongoing commercial dispute with Engineers & Planners (E&P), describing recent public references to the bank as “unwarranted and inaccurate.”

In a statement released on July 13, 2025, as part of broader communication about its ongoing negotiations with E&P, Azumah Resources expressed regret over what it described as the misrepresentation of EBID’s role in the matter.

“We further wish to express our regret to the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) over the unwarranted and inaccurate inclusion of the Bank’s name in public discourse surrounding this matter,” the company said.

The clarification follows media commentary about the financial backers of a contentious mining transaction between Azumah Resources and E&P, which has drawn national attention.

However, Azumah Resources clarified that as part of due diligence in 2023, representatives from both companies visited EBID’s headquarters in Lomé, Togo.

The company explained that the visit was to assess the bank’s capacity and interest in financing the deal.

“Representatives of Azumah Resources and E&P visited EBID’s offices in Lomé, Togo, in 2023 to assess the Bank’s capacity and willingness to support the transaction. EBID expressed indicative interest, contingent on its internal credit appraisal and Board approval,” the company said.

Additionally, Azumah Resources stressed that no financial commitments were made by EBID, and any statements suggesting otherwise are misleading.

“Any extrapolations beyond this context are both inappropriate and unauthorised,” the statement added.

The statement comes at a time when Azumah Resources and E&P are engaged in confidential negotiations aimed at resolving what the company describes as a “commercial impasse” regarding the Black Volta Gold Project.

The talks are being conducted under the guidance of regulatory authorities and within the legal framework of Ghana’s extractive sector.

Earlier, Azumah Resources called on media houses and commentators to refrain from speculation that could jeopardise ongoing discussions, particularly in light of directives from the Minister responsible for the sector.

“We remain committed to a professional, transparent, and responsible resolution of this matter, and are fully aligned with the broader interests of the Republic of Ghana and all stakeholders involved,” the company concluded.

The Black Volta Gold Project, once operational, is expected to produce an average of 163,000 ounces of gold per year, about five tonnes annually, during its first five years. This would represent roughly 3% of Ghana’s national gold output, which rose to 4.8 million ounces, or 150 tonnes, in 2024.

See Azumah’s statement below

SSD/MA

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Six major highlights from Club World Cup final

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Donald Trump (in black suit) presented the 2025 Club World Cup trophy to the Chelsea squad Donald Trump (in black suit) presented the 2025 Club World Cup trophy to the Chelsea squad

GhanaWeb Feature by Benjamin Sackey

The sporting fraternity was absolutely stunned as what many considered the favorites were swallowed by the “underdogs” during the 2025 Club World Cup finale in the United States of America (USA).

The match generated numerous talking points on social media platforms where the club’s fans trolled other supporters who had doubted their ability to clinch the trophy.

The President of USA, Donald Trump, together with other key dignitaries, graced the occasion and witnessed the footballing event.

This feature highlights the major takeaways from the grand finale.

How Chelsea outclassed PSG

To the surprise of many football fanatics, the London club impressed with their energetic display and brilliant performance from start to finish.

Chelsea began the game with high-intensity pressing which led to Palmer opening the scoring with a sublime finish in the 22nd minute, giving them the lead.

They did not relent as their sustained energetic performance earned them another goal from Palmer in the 30th minute.

He also provided an assist for João Pedro to seal an emphatic 3–0 win over favorites PSG.

The French club were passive in the game and their anticipated brilliance failed to materialise.

Cole Palmer’s brilliance

The English wonderkid’s extraordinary performance salvaged Chelsea from what could have been a disaster had he not scored early.

Palmer netted twice and provided one assist in the final match against PSG, handing The Blues their first-ever Club World Cup title.

His terrific performances throughout the competition helped him emerge as the Player of the Tournament, which some football fans believe puts him in the conversation for the 2025 Ballon d’Or award.

Donald Trump in attendance

United States President Donald Trump, together with First Lady Melania Trump, graced the occasion.

He commended FIFA President Gianni Infantino for organising a competition that had fewer challenges than anticipated.

“It’s a big thing [the competition], Gianni’s a friend of mine. But it’s great to watch. This is a little bit of an upset we’re watching today.

“[FIFA has done] fantastically well. It’s a growing sport, it’s a great sport,” he told DAZN.

Trump joined other dignitaries to present medals to the players and match officials and even joined the Chelsea squad while they were lifting the trophy.

Altercations

PSG manager Luis Enrique was surprisingly spotted putting his hands on João Pedro in a seeming altercation.

The Spanish manager and his goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, confronted the Chelsea striker before Enrique appeared to shove Pedro in the face.

The former Brighton & Hove Albion striker fell down clutching his face with the incident sparking a full-blown fracas at the center of the pitch.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was then spotted pulling Donnarumma aside as he tried to defuse the situation.

Awards

Chelsea’s Cole Palmer was selected as the Player of the Tournament following his outstanding performances.

His goals and assists were crucial.

The Blues’ goalkeeper, Robert Sánchez, won the Golden Glove award after keeping three clean sheets and making brilliant saves throughout the tournament.

PSG’s prodigy Désiré Doué clinched the Best Young Player of the Tournament accolade while Real Madrid’s Gonzalo García won the Golden Boot with four goals and one assist.

Watch as Ghanaians speak out on Thomas Partey’s rape charge, suggest fresh start in Saudi Arabia

MP supporter hacked to death in Budaka pre-election clash

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A probe is underway into the incident A probe is underway into the incident

A deadly outbreak of political violence in eastern Uganda has left one person dead and several injured following clashes between rival supporters in Budaka District ahead of July 17 primaries, police said Monday.

The incident occurred late Sunday afternoon at Kadatume Primary School in Katira Sub-county, Iki-Iki County, where incumbent MP and ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Robert Kasolo was addressing a rally.

According to police, violence erupted when a convoy of supporters belonging to Kasolo’s opponent, Mr Micheal Kawiso, approached the venue from Kameruka and began hurling stones at Kasolo’s gathering before fleeing the scene.

“This was quite an unfortunate and regrettable incident. A life has been lost under circumstances that could have been avoided. Politics should never be a game of life and death,” said ASP Wilfred Kyempasa, spokesperson for the North Bukedi Regional Police.

Police identified the deceased as Esau Magoola, who was reportedly pursued by Kawiso’s supporters, assaulted and cut with pangas (machetes) until he died. Kawiso did not immediately comment on the allegation.

Eyewitnesses said Magoola fell while trying to flee and was attacked by individuals known to local residents.

The incident has been recorded as a murder case under reference number Budaka CRB 287/2025. Police confirmed that the crime scene was documented and statements were taken from several witnesses.

“No arrests have been made yet, but investigations are ongoing,” ASP Kyempasa said, adding that the body had been taken to Budaka Health Centre IV and would be transferred to Mbale City Mortuary for a postmortem examination.

The fatal attack was first reported to authorities by Abel Mugalya, a 54-year-old teacher and resident of Bulalaka Village.

The police spokesperson warned of a worrying trend of escalating violence between supporters of rival candidates in the lead-up to Uganda’s 2026 general elections.

“This is not the first case. We are beginning to see a pattern of aggression and hostility at campaign events, which poses serious risks to peace and security,” he added.

Elsewhere in the region, similar incidents of election-related violence have been reported, including in neighboring Butebo District, further heightening concerns among electoral and security officials.

The clashes in Iki-Iki County underscore growing tensions in Uganda’s politically charged atmosphere, particularly in rural districts where competition for votes has increasingly turned confrontational. Over five people have been reported killed in election-linked violence in the build up to Thursday’s NRM elections to decide parliamentary flagbearers ahead of 2026 polls.

Authorities have urged political leaders to reign in their supporters and focus on peaceful, issue-based campaigning. The NRM has yet to comment on the developments. Uganda is scheduled to hold general elections for the presidency and legislature in January 2026.

Claims that Akufo-Addo is against NPP’s 19th July National Delegates Conference false—Nii Teiko Tagoe

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A former flagstaffer under the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration, Charles Teiko Tagoe, has debunked claims that the former president of Ghana is against the New Patriotic Party’s date for the National Delegates Conference.

According to him, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has not written any letter to the party’s executives registering his displeasure against the date and the early primaries for the party to choose a presidential candidate.

Defence Minister orders probe into alleged military vandalism in Bawku

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The Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has called for calm and restraint in Bawku following reports that members of the Ghana Armed Forces allegedly destroyed a statue of the Zugran of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Asigri Abugrago Azoka II.

The alleged incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation and tension in the area, prompted a swift response from the minister, who took to Facebook on Monday, July 14, 2025, to announce that investigations have been launched into the matter.

“We are, once again, urging restraint and calm in Bawku regarding the latest developments as of yesterday,” Dr. Boamah stated in his post.

He disclosed that he has ordered a thorough probe into the reported act and assured that decisive action will be taken based on the findings and recommendations of the investigations.

“Once again, let us ensure restraint,” he added, stressing the need for peace and de-escalation as the government works to get to the bottom of the situation.

The development follows condemnation from Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, who described the alleged destruction of the statue and recent military actions in the area as unacceptable and demanded accountability.

Mahama’s directive to regulate Port charges may ease market prices – Importers and Exporters

Court dismisses Iyabo Ojo’s N1bn defamation suit against Lizzy Anjorin

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LAGOS—A Lagos High Court sitting in Osborne, Ikoyi, has dismissed a N1 billion defamation suit filed by Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo against her colleague, Lizzy Anjorin.

Justice Olabisi Akinlade, who presided over the matter, held that the suit was incompetent due to procedural defects and a fundamental flaw in the originating processes. The court also ordered Ojo’s lawyer, Dr. Olabimpe Ajegbomogun, to pay N500, 000 to Anjorin’s lawyer, Barrister Ademola Olabiyi.

The case, marked LD/ADR/5292/2023, was instituted by Iyabo Ojo, who sought N1 billion in damages for alleged defamation. However, Anjorin’s counsel, Olabiyi, filed a preliminary objection, arguing that the suit failed to comply with mandatory pre-action protocols required under the Lagos State High Court Civil Procedure Rules.

Key among the objections was that the Statement of Compliance with Pre-Action Protocol (Form 01) accompanying the Writ of Summons was unsigned by Ojo’s counsel. Olabiyi contended that this omission rendered the suit null and void. He also highlighted that the Writ itself did not strictly follow the format prescribed by the court rules and lacked proper endorsement of the reliefs sought.

The defence further submitted that the unsigned documents in the court file and the absence of a Certified True Copy (CTC) raised concerns about the legitimacy of the processes filed by Ojo. Olabiyi noted that a search of the court file on April 2, 2024, revealed that the original copy of the Writ was unsigned and that the copy filed by the claimant in her counter-affidavit was an uncertified photocopy.

In response, Iyabo Ojo’s counsel argued that the procedural objections did not affect the substance of the suit and urged the court to discountenance the technicalities raised by the defence. The counter-affidavit claimed the Writ was properly signed and that any errors could be amended before the trial commenced.

However, Justice Akinlade ruled that the failure to sign the original Writ of Summons at the time of filing was a fatal defect. The judge noted that the certified copy obtained by Anjorin’s counsel confirmed that the Writ was unsigned when the suit was filed and assigned to the court.

Former Presidents Kufuor and Akufo-Addo Call for Postponement of the July 19 Congress

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By: Prince Adjei – Guy Gee

There are indications that the two former Presidents, Kufuor and Akufo-Addo, have called on the leadership of the New Patriotic Party to postponement the Congress scheduled for July 19, 2025. It is worth noting that this appeal is underpinned by the need for further engagements on proposed constitutional amendments and addressing some pertinent intra-Party matters.

Ghana Golf Association hails success of Ladies Amateur tournament

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The National Coordinator of the Ghana Golf Association, Leticia Amponsah Mensah has described the just-ended 10th Ghana Ladies Amateur Golf Tournament as a celebration of sportsmanship, sisterhood, and growing continental excellence in women’s golf.

Held at the Center of the World Golf Club in Tema, the tournament brought together elite female golfers from six African countries – Ghana, Nigeria, Gabon, Tanzania, Zambia, and Togo – in what has been described as one of the most inclusive and competitive editions yet.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Leticia emphasized the significance of this year’s tournament, which gained official recognition under the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR).

She noted that this milestone reflects the strides Ghana and Africa are making in advancing women’s participation in the sport on the global stage.

“Tanzania, the defending champions, graced this event with grace, grit, and excellence,” she said, commending all players for their skill and determination, regardless of their final standings.

The Association extended appreciation to a wide range of sponsors, including Premium Animal Product Limited (lead sponsor), Japan Motors, Ink & Thread, Pamicor, Flo Polo, Ghandour Cosmetics, Barcelos, Beviamo, Fabbi Treats, SBJ Properties, Information Governance Solutions, Asuboa Wood Treatment Limited, Cediwatch, Sunu Assurance, and Millenuim Insurance, for their continued investment in women’s golf.

The Coordinator also acknowledged the efforts of the planning committee, highlighting the leadership and dedication of members including Celine, Adwoa, Cathy, and Floria.

She also expressed gratitude to male supporters who played vital roles in ensuring the event’s success.

Special thanks were also directed to the Center of the World Golf Club, praised not only for its facilities and hospitality but also for symbolizing Ghana’s central role in African golf development.

As the tournament concluded, the Coordinator reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to using golf as a platform for empowering women, strengthening regional ties, and showcasing African talent to the world.

The Ghana Golf Association looks ahead to building on this momentum, both for future editions of the tournament and for broader grassroots development in women’s golf across the continent.

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 crowd is small’ – Burna Boy reacts to Vybz Kartel’s Wireless Festival

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Afro-fusion musician, Burna Boy says audience present at the Wireless Festival concert is small Afro-fusion musician, Burna Boy says audience present at the Wireless Festival concert is small

Nigerian Afro-fusion musician, Burna Boy, has caused a stir on social media following a comment made during the performance of Jamaican dancehall singer, Vybz Kartel.

Over the weekend, Vybz Kartel performed at the Wireless Festival, held at Finsbury Park in London, UK.

The “God Is The Greatest” hitmaker, who was the headline artiste, had fans jamming hard to his songs as he performed them on the stage.

Meanwhile, Burna Boy, who watched Vybz Kartel’s performance backstage, expressed dissatisfaction with the size of the audience that attended the event.

In a video making waves on social media, Burna Boy stated that the crowd present at the concert was smaller than he had anticipated.

“But the crowd is small. Is this how Wireless is?” he asked.

The video has sparked mixed reactions on social media, where some netizens have expressed dissatisfaction with the comment made by the Nigerian singer.

The Wireless Festival concert also witnessed dancehall queen, Spice; Drake, Popcaan, Moliy and other A-list musicians mounting the stage to impress fans with their energetic performances.

Watch the video below:

JHM/AE

Meanwhile, you can watch GhanaWeb TV’s exclusive interview with Arathejay below:

GhanaWeb partners with BBC team to develop podcasting styles, and strengthen partnerships

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The BBC team with the GhanaWeb management when they visited The BBC team with the GhanaWeb management when they visited

A team from the BBC has visited Ghana’s leading news website, GhanaWeb, to share ideas specifically relating to podcasting generations and how it is relevant to today’s media.

The team of three met with the editorial news team for what was nearly two hours of sharing experiences and ideas on how to produce world-class podcasts, as well as how to maximise the era of podcasting to project media brands.

As part of the discussions, the BBC team shared relatable stories of their experiences in countries across the world, including on topics such as the best ways to identify a good podcast subject to work on.

The team explained that one of the ways the BBC arrives at the best ideas for a podcast, including social listening tools, and employing the use of narrative storytelling, with a primary focus on collecting data.

“What we try to do is find stories that apply to people around the world and then look for local stories that fit into that… When we were in Malaysia last year, we spoke to people on overconsumption and shopping addiction.

“So, we are talking to people and we had a guy who like 300 pairs of shoes – he is obsessed, but the question is do you need these numbers of shoes? But there will be people all over the world who can identify with that and say, ‘Oh, I’ve spent money that I don’t really have because I’ve been watching things on the internet,’” BBC Assistant Editor, Verity Wilde, said in reference to how to identify the right subjects for podcasts.

Adding to it, Hannah Gelbart, an award-winning podcast host, presenter, and investigative journalist at BBC News, also expanded on how they have followed that story to places like the beaches of Ghana.

“And then this morning, we got up at 5 in the morning, to go to the Ussher Fort Beach where there was a cleanup where we got to see where some of those 300 pairs of trainers might end up, and actually, it was really upsetting to see where all of the waste that is coming in from Europe, from America.

“And we went to Kantamanto and we looked at the amazing work of people trying to clean the clothes and sew it and make new things and they said that 40% of the stuff that come their way is absolute rubbish and that’s what goes into the dumpsites, goes into the lagoons and ends up in beautiful city beaches,” she added.

Also, they explained that telling stories are important because of the people directly involved or affected by them, as well, for instance, the people who are manufacturing them.

The BBC team also answered questions from the GhanaWeb team on such things as ‘Can anybody start a podcast?’ and ‘How to monetise a podcast efficiently and effectively.’

Following the session with the editorial team, the BBC team met with the Management of GhanaWeb, during which they pledged the BBC’s continuous support through periodic training programmes aimed at building journalistic capacity and promoting ethical, high-standard reporting styles.

The Chief Executive Officer of GhanaWeb, David Antwi, in his brief remarks said, “We were honoured to host the BBC team at GhanaWeb. This is the biggest news website in Ghana and to partner with a global powerhouse like the BBC is a reaffirmation of the growing global interest in Ghana’s digital media landscape.”

He further added that; “It was a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas on innovation, content development, and the future of journalism in Ghana and in Africa as a whole.”

The team was made up of Assistant Editor Verity Wilde; Hannah Gelbart, host of BBC’s What in the World podcast; and Senior Business Development Associate for South and West Africa, Olajumoke Adebisi.

Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe

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AE

Kenya offers 60-day visa-free stay for Africans

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Kenya opens Borders for African and Caribbean nationals Kenya opens Borders for African and Caribbean nationals

Kenya has officially scrapped visa requirements for the majority of African and Caribbean countries.

This means that Ghanaians and citizens from these regions no longer need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), are not required to fill out lengthy forms, and do not have to pay any visa fees.

Eligible travelers can now arrive at the border and enter the country hassle-free.

However, this privilege does not extend to Libya and Somalia, which the Kenyan government cites as security risks.

Under the new policy, African visitors may stay in Kenya for up to two months, while nationals of East African Community (EAC) member states are permitted to stay for up to six months under existing free movement protocols.

According to Kenya’s Cabinet, the decision supports the country’s open skies policy and aims to stimulate growth in the tourism sector.

President William Ruto stated that streamlining entry procedures will enhance cross-border movement and deepen ties between Kenya and the rest of the continent.

In a January 2025 notice, the government also announced plans to introduce additional measures to further improve the travel experience.

SP/MA

Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe

Five sports personalities who have died in 2025 so far

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All these sports personalities have died All these sports personalities have died

In the first quarter of 2025, we honour and remember the athletes and sports stars who have left us so far.

Celebrating their remarkable achievements and lasting legacies, this tribute serves as a memorial to those who not only excelled in their sporting fields but also profoundly impacted fans and communities worldwide.

1. Diego Jota (1997–2025)

Diego Jota was a Portuguese professional footballer renowned for his clinical finishing, pace, and versatility as a forward or winger.

He began his career at Paços de Ferreira before moving to Atlético Madrid and after loan spells at FC Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers, he joined Wolves permanently and played a key role in their promotion to the Premier League.

In 2020, Jota signed for Liverpool where he became an integral part of the squad, helping the club win the Premier League, FA Cup, and other honours, and scoring crucial goals in domestic and European competitions.

Internationally, he represented Portugal, earning nearly 50 caps, and was part of the squads that won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.

Diego Jota tragically died in a car accident in Spain at age 28, along with his brother André.

2. George Foreman (1949-2025)

George Foreman, the legendary heavyweight boxing champion, passed away on March 21, 2025, in Houston.

Foreman first won a world title in his 20s and made a stunning comeback in his 40s, reclaiming the heavyweight title by defeating Michael Moorer.

Outside the ring, he became a household name with his line of electric grills.

He was known for his warm personality and even dabbled in TV with a short-lived sitcom.

He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.

3. Tonny Blanco (1981-2025)

Tony Blanco was one of the over 60 people who died after a nightclub roof collapsed in the Dominican Republic on April 8, 2025.

Tony Blanco’s journey in baseball took him from the minor leagues to the majors and then overseas.

He played 56 games for the Washington Nationals in 2005, where he hit 215 with a home run and seven RBIs.

After leaving MLB, he found success playing in Japan and back home in the Dominican Republic.

Blanco’s legacy continues through his son, Tony Blanco Jr., who is currently part of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ farm system as of 2025.

4. Denis Law (1940 – 2025)

Denis Law is a Scottish soccer player, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation.

He began his professional career with Huddersfield Town in 1956.

Law played for several clubs, including Manchester City, Torino, and most notably Manchester United where he spent eleven years and scored 237 goals in 404 appearances.

Law was part of the iconic United Trinity with George Best and Bobby Charlton.

He won the Ballon d’Or in 1964, becoming the only Scottish player to receive this prestigious award.

He passed away at the age of 84.

5. Emmanuel Kundé (1956–2025)

Ex-Cameroonian international, Emmanuel Jérôme Kundé passed away from cardiac arrest on May 16, 2025, at the age of 68.

Known for his calm composure and defensive tenacity, Kundé was a key player in Cameroon’s golden generation of the 1980s.

He was instrumental in their Africa Cup of Nations victories in 1984 and 1988, famously scoring the winning penalty in the 1988 final against Nigeria.

PM/AME

You can also watch some Ghanaians’ reactions to Thomas Partey’s rape charge

How Nigeria woman smuggle baby into UK wit fake birth story

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Last summer, dem arrest one woman for Gatwick Airport afta she arrive from Nigeria wit ove very young baby girl.

Di woman bin dey live for West Yorkshire wit her husband and children, and bifor she comot UK for Africa and tell her GP say she get belle.

No be true.

Wen di woman return about one month later wit di baby, dem arrest on suspicion of trafficking.

Di case, di second wey di BBC don follow through di Family Court for recent months, reveal wetin experts say na news trend of babies wey dem dey bring into di UK unlawfully – from some so-called “baby factories” for Nigeria.

‘My babies dey always hide’

Di woman, wey we go call Susan, na Nigerian, but e don dey live for England since June 2023, wit her husband and children.

Susan, a careworker wey leave Britain for Africa, claim say she get belle. But scans and blood tests show say no be true. Instead, dem reveal say Susan get tumour, wey doctors fear say e fit dey cancerous. But she refuse treatment.

Susan insist say her previous pregnancies no dey dey visible for scans, telling her employer, “my babies dey always hide”. She also claim she don get belle for up to 30 months wit her oda children.

She travel to Nigeria for early June 2024, as she tok say she wan born her baby for dia, and den contact her local hospital in Britain, to say she don born her baby.

Doctors dey concerned and call children services.

Wen she arrive back for UK wit di baby girl – wey she dey call Eleanor – Sussex police stop and arrest Susan.

Dem don bail her and di lead police force confam say no active investigation at di moment.

Afta her arrest, Susan, her husband, and Eleanor, do DNA tests. Dem don carry Eleanor go foster carers.

“Wen di results show say I be Eleanor mama, I wan make dem return her to me immediately,” Susan tok.

But di test show say di baby no get genetic link wit Susan or her husband. Susan demand second test – na di same result, and den she change her story.

She claim say she go for IVF treatment bifor she move to Britain in 2023 wit donor egg and sperm, she tok, and na why di DNA tests show negative.

Susan provide one letter from one Nigerian hospital, wey one medical director sign, say she born her baby dia, as well as one document from anoda clinic about di IVF treatment to back up her claim.

She also provide fotos and videos wey show her for Nigerian hospital labour suite. Her face no dey visible for di foto and one show one naked woman wit placenta between her legs, wit umbilical cord wey still dey attached to am.

Pesin don born – No be Susan

Di Family Court for Leeds send Henrietta Coker make she investigate.

Ms Coker, dey provide expert reports to family courts for cases like dis, she get nearly 30 years experience as social worker. She train for Britain, and work for front-line child protection for London, bifor she move to Africa.

Ms Coker visit di medical centre wia Susan claim she get IVF. No record of Susan treatment dia – staff tell her say dem forge di letter.

She den visit di place Susan tok say she born pikin. Na shabby, three bedroom flat, wit “stained” walls and “dirty” carpets.

Ms Coker tok say she meet “three young teenage girls wey sit for di reception room wit nurse uniforms”.

She ask make she follow di matron tok and “dem take am into di kitchen wia one teenage girl dey chop rice”.

Ms Coker den track down di doctor wey write di letter, wia Susan tok say she born di pikin for dia hospital. He say, “Yes, pesin don born pikin”.

Ms Coker show am foto of Susan, but di doctor tok say no be her.

“Impersonating pipo dey common for dis part of di world,” e tell Ms Coker, say Susan fit don “buy di pikin”.

Di practice of “baby farming” dey popular for West Africa, Ms Coker later tell di court. At least Nigerian authorities don close down 200 illegal “baby factories” for di last five years, she tok.

Some na young girls wey dem kidnap, rape, and force dem make dem born pikin repeatedly.

“Sometimes dem dey release dia girls,” Ms Coker tok, “oda times dem dey die during childbirth, or wen dem murder and bury dem for di grounds of di organisation.”

E no dey clear wia baby Eleanor come from – though di doctor tell Ms Coker say e believe say dem give am up voluntarily.

Ms Coker no fit establish who Eleanor real parents be.

She give evidence to di Family Court for Leeds for March dis year, along wit Susan, her husband, her employer and one senior obstetrician.

At earlier hearing di judge ask for Susan phone make dem examine am. Investigators tok say dem find messages wey Susan send to someone to save her address book as “Mum oft [sic] Lagos Baby”.

About four weeks bifor di alleged date of birth Susan write one text message say:

“Good afternoon ma, I neva see di hospital items”

Di same day, Mum Oft Lagos Baby respond:

“Delivery drug na 3.4 m

“Hospital bill na 170k.”

Assuming dis sums to Nigerian Naira, e go be £1,700 and £85 respectively, di Family Court judge, Recorder William Tyler KC tok.

Di local authority point say dem don set di messages to “automatic self-destruct mode”

Susan try to explain di messages in court. Di Recorder tok say her explanation dey “difficult to follow and impossible to accept”.

Recorder Tyler, wey dey sit as Deputy Judge of di High Court, tok say Susan “stage one scene” wia she falsely claim say she born Eleanor for Nigeria.

Susan tok say and her husband put forward “fundamental lie” to explain how Eleanor dey dia care and dem try to mislead authorities wit false documents.

Dem go both cause di little girl “significant emotional and psychological harm”, e tok.

In early July, di BBC attend di final hearing for Eleanor case.

Dem want make dem return Eleanor to dem. Dia barristers tok say dia own children dey thriving – dem wan offer her di same love and care.

Susan husband see Eleanor as “fundamental part of dia family unit”.

Vikki Horspool, wey dey represent di child guardian, social worker from di Independent Children and Family Child Advisory Service tok say. She tok say di couple “continued to dey dishonest” about Eleanor real start in life and how she come to be in dia care.

The judge order say make dem place baby Eleanor for adoption, and also make “declaration of non parentage”. E tok say im dey aware of di “pain” dis go cause Susan and her husband.

Di barrister for di local authority tell di court say di baby dey “very settled” wit her foster carer, taking part in activities in her community and getting medical treatment.

Wen dem adopt Eleanor she go get new identity and British nationality – but she fit no know who are real parents be.

Eleanor story dey similar to di case of “Lucy” –wey dem bring into Manchester Airport in 2023, by one man wey claim to be her papa.

‘Money exchange for children’

Ms Coker believe say likely dem born bring more children unlawfully to di UK from West Africa. She tell di BBC say she don work on around one dozen similar cases since di pandemic. In her experience, baby trafficking na commonplace.

“Dem dey exchange children for money on a large scale” she tok – not just in Africa but “across di global south”.

Since 2021 di UK goment don restrict adoptions from Nigeria, partly becos of “evidence of organised child trafficking” within di kontri.

British authorities dey aware of di problem for many years, and dem get several cases in di Family Courts ova di last 20 years.

Two hearings in 2011 and 2012 involve Nigerian couples wey get “fertility treatment ” and e lead to “miracle baby”.

Dis “treatments” continue, as recently expose by investigative journalists for BBC Africa Eye.

In 2013, di UK High Commission in Lagos require DNA tests for certain circumstances bifor dem fit take newborn babies from Nigeria to Britain.

However dem don stop dis process since 2018, dem tell officials say DNA testing dey unlawful.

Dem tok say dem go make pipo undergo DNA testing wen dem dey asking for visa or passport in support of application relating to immigration status.

Ms Coker said some clinics offer “packages” wey include registering di baby birth. E dey cost anywia between £2,000 and £8,000, excluding any airfare, she tok.

She think more pipo in Britain suppose dey aware of dis activity.

E dey hard to tackle, she tok – perhaps DNA testing of newborn babies and purported parents go fit help.

But she no dey sure di British goment fit do much to stop am, she to, “di issues start in kontri wia dem born di children”.

Patricia Durr, CEO of di anti-trafficking charity ECPAT tok say cases like dis dey particularly “heinous” becos dem dey deny di pikin im right to know im own identity.

She tok: “Every effort must be made to prevent dis egregious crimes occurring.”

One goment tok-tok pesin say: “Falsely claiming to be di parent of one child to facilitate entry to di UK dey illegal. Pipo wey dey do am go face full force of di law.

“Border Force dey committed to protecting individuals wey cross di border and wia concerns dey raised, officers go take action to safeguard individuals wey dey at risk.”

Di BBC contact di Nigerian High Commission for comment but dem norespond.

Ofori-Atta’s extradition: FBI clears first major hurdle

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Ken Ofori-Atta

The Government of Ghana’s bid to hold former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta accountable for his tenure under President Nana Akufo-Addo has received a significant boost, with US authorities dismissing claims that the move constitutes a political witch-hunt.

Sources at the US Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), through the US Embassy in Accra, have reportedly confirmed to that they are satisfied the request for Mr. Ofori-Atta to respond to investigations in Ghana is legitimate.

According to the sources, the matter does not fall under categories of persecution or political witch-hunting that would warrant protective relief under U.S. immigration law or international human rights protocols.

Ken Ofori-Atta, currently receiving medical care in the United States, has accused the Ghanaian government—particularly the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP)—of violating his fundamental human rights through persistent efforts to interrogate him over allegations of financial malfeasance and causing financial loss to the state.

In addition to the OSP, the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) and the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) are also seeking to question him regarding similar allegations.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor has twice declared Mr. Ofori-Atta a fugitive from justice for failing to honour invitations to appear before it. The OSP has since applied for his extradition through the competent authority—the Office of the Attorney General and Minister for Justice.

Extradition is a legal process that allows law enforcement agencies to seek the return of suspects who are outside the jurisdiction. It requires full cooperation and approval from the host country, in this case, the United States, which may evaluate the request based on its own investigative and judicial standards.

The process may face delays, particularly if the subject contests the extradition in court.

Aside from its core responsibilities in combating crimes such as terrorism, cybercrime, corruption, and organised crime, the FBI’s international legal attachés also assist in coordinating transnational investigations through U.S. embassies globally.

Ken Ofori-Atta has filed multiple legal suits seeking to overturn his classification as a wanted person and to challenge what he terms an abuse of his human rights.

Fire Service Awards Zen Petroleum Limited

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Zen Petroleum staff receiving the award

 

THE MAIDEN edition of the National Safety Awards, organised by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNS), has rewarded Zen Petroleum Limited for its years of upholding safety at its various outlets nationwide.

The award, received under the Corporate Excellence Award category, was in affirmation of Zen’s dedication to sustaining safety as a leading wholly Ghanaian-owned downstream oil and gas industry in the country.

Acting Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, said the award is organised to honour companies like Zen Petroleum and individuals who are not waiting for disasters to strike before acting, but are embedding safety into their operations, behaviours, values, and everyday lives.

The Ag. CFO extended her warmest congratulations to all award recipients and nominees, saying, “You have proven that excellence in safety is possible and essential. May your leadership inspire others to do the same?”

ZEN Petroleum is the leading fuel and lubricant supplier to Ghana’s mining sector, with a growing retail network of over 60 service stations. The Group also includes Astra Oil Services, a licensed Bulk Distribution Company (BDC); ZEN Terminals, a gasoil depot with 33,00OMT capacity; and ZEN Transport, which includes Ladybird Logistics – the world’s first all-female driver logistics company, created to empower women in transport.

Through its nationwide retail network and ZEN convenience shops, the Group delivers high-quality fuel and everyday essentials to communities across Ghana, driving accessibility, safety, and impact in every region it serves.

ZEN has maintained a Fatality Frequency Rate (FaFR) of 0.00, meaning the company has operated for over a decade without a single fatality.

In January 2025, ZEN launched and signed off its Life Saving Rules (LSR) – a vital step in empowering every team member to prioritise safety daily and reinforcing a culture of safety excellence across all operations.

It was recognised in the Financial Times and Statista 2024 annual ranking of Africa’s fastest-growing companies for the third year in a row, 2022, 2023, and 2024 – making it the only Ghanaian company to make the list three consecutive times.

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

 

 

19 Police officers promoted to rank of COP, DCOP

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Nineteen police officers have been promoted to the rank of Commissioner of Police (COP) and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP).

The officers were last Friday decorated with their new ranks.

The officers promoted to the rank of COP were Lydia Yaako-Donkor, Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID); Vance Baba Gariba, Director-General of Operations; Sebastian Atsu Wemegah; Rev. Fr George Arthur; David Agyemang Adjem; Owusu Donyinah; Martin Kwaku Ayiih and Razak Abdul-Osman.

Those promoted to DCOP were God-Act Dodzi Hlordzi; Wisdom Korli; Joseph Owusu Ansah; Joshua Copson; Obed Dzikunu; Phyllis Ama Tebuah Osei; William Wowolo; William Kofi Donkor; Wisdom Lavoe; Francis Christopher Abaka and Benjamin K. Agordzo (rtd).

Excellence

Speaking at the ceremony at the Police Headquarters last Friday where the decoration took place, the Interior Minister, Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, asked senior officers of the Ghana Police Service to see their promotions as a source of motivation for all officers to strive for excellence in service to Ghana.

He said their elevation was a testament to their hard work and dedication.

He congratulated the newly promoted officers and commended them for their commitment, professionalism and sacrifices in the line of duty. 

Challenges

Alhaji Mohammed-Mubarak acknowledged the many challenges they face daily in protecting lives and maintaining law and order.

He conveyed President John Dramani Mahama’s deep appreciation for their invaluable service to the nation.

The Interior Minister urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to review the promotion processes within the Police Service to ensure fairness and transparency.

“Deserving officers whose promotions have been delayed must be duly recognised and rewarded promptly,” he noted.

Demoralise

Mr Yohuno acknowledged how delayed promotions or junior officers being promoted ahead of their seniors affected morale.

He urged them to bring their experience and skills to bear on their junior colleagues and the work they engaged in.

Appreciation

On behalf of his colleagues, Mr Abdul-Osman expressed appreciation for the honour done to them and said they saw it as a call to service and would empower them to work harder.

He said they did not consider the promotions as a privilege but “as a responsibility you have imposed on us to serve, to live an example and give you the opportunity to establish a legacy worth emulating and we promise you that we will use this honour granted us to serve.”

He was hopeful that the promotions would empower them while God gave them the knowledge to be of service to Ghanaians, the officers and men of the Ghana Police Service.

Swiatek’s sensational triumph at Wimbledon

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Iga Swiatek was not on many people’s radar to win Wimbledon – including her own.

The 24-year-old’s two-year reign as world number one – ended by Aryna Sabalenka last year – was underpinned by dominance on the clay and consistency on the hard courts.

Swiatek became known as the ‘Queen of Clay’ after winning four French Open titles in five years, while she also won the US Open in 2022.

But she now leaves Wimbledon as the champion, thanks to an astonishing 6-0 6-0 victory in just 57 minutes over Amanda Anisimova in last Saturday’s final.

Not only was this Swiatek’s first Wimbledon title, it was her first Tour-level title on grass, having previously won the girls’ competition at SW19.

And as Swiatek herself said as she walked into her post-match news conference – who would have expected that?

“This one and the US Open for sure feel better because no-one expected that,” Swiatek said.

“It wasn’t a relief. It was more of just good tennis and working to make it happen without this baggage on your shoulders.

“It’s something that is just surreal. I feel like tennis keeps surprising me, and I keep surprising myself.”

Finding more peace

What makes victory even more surprising is Swiatek has been nowhere near her dominant best over the past year.

She did not reach a final for a year after her 2024 French Open triumph, slipping to eighth in the world – her lowest ranking since March 2022 – as a result.

There were a mixture of reasons – on and off the court – as to why Swiatek’s level has dipped.

Losing in the Olympic semi-finals in Paris last summer was a bitter blow, with Swiatek saying she cried for “six hours” afterwards.

In November, it was announced Swiatek had tested positive for heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample. She was subsequently given a one-month ban after the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted the result was caused by contamination.

More issues cropped up at the start of this year.

“Honestly, I needed a couple of months to get back on a proper path. It wasn’t easy,” Swiatek told BBC Sport.

But one person who did call Swiatek’s Wimbledon triumph was former Grand Slam semi-finalist Andrea Petkovic.

Petkovic saw a “new freshness” in Swiatek during the grass-court tournament in Bad Homburg – and also tipped her to win Wimbledon, as the German said herself, “for irrational reasons”.

During Swiatek’s semi-final match against Jasmine Paolini at the WTA event, Petkovic spotted a large bird circling above Swiatek for around 10 minutes.

When the players changed ends, the bird followed Swiatek to the other side of the court, which Petkovic took as an omen.

“I said there and then she’s going to win Wimbledon,” Petkovic told BBC Radio 5 Live.

“For most of this year you could sense pressure and tension when she stepped on court.

“In Bad Homburg you could see that was gone.”

More time to prepare on grass

Before this year, Swiatek had only reached the second week of Wimbledon once, in a quarter-final run in 2023.

After a shock third-round defeat by Yulia Putintseva last year, Swiatek said she had not given herself enough time to mentally recover from her French Open win a few weeks earlier.

Having lost to Sabalenka in the Roland Garros semi-finals this year, Swiatek went to Mallorca for a week’s training on grass before returning to competitive action in Bad Homburg.

Swiatek reached the final in Germany, where a defeat by Jessica Pegula left her in tears, but it was an indication that her level on the surface had improved.

“I feel like I have developed as a player and I had time to practise a little bit more [this year],” said Swiatek.

“I would say we mainly focused on my movement and how I should stop before hitting the ball.

“Also, [we worked] on fast hands because obviously it’s important here not to stop the movement, even though the ball sometimes is fast.”

‘Forgiving herself’ a bit more

Swiatek replaced long-time coach Tomasz Wiktorowski with Wim Fissette late last year, and it has taken time for the tweaks she was making to bed in.

“When you make a big change and hire a new coach, it takes a while to see the changes,” said former world number nine Petkovic.

“You feel you’re progressing and you’re expecting to see results right away. But it doesn’t happen right away.”

Swiatek’s serve is an area which Fissette has focused on.

The Pole won 79 per cent of her first-serve points at Wimbledon – the joint-second highest in the women’s singles.

After the Wimbledon final, Swiatek said her serving was the best it has been in the entire grass-court swing.

“I think she got a bit hectic at the start of the season. Now something is different and she has a bit more patience with herself,” said Petkovic.

“I think she’s also forgiving herself a bit more if she makes a few unforced errors on the grass.”

Ghana Confronts Rising Mobile Theft Epidemic Amid Systemic Enforcement Gaps

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Ghana is grappling with a growing wave of mobile phone thefts that experts say has escalated into a public safety and digital security crisis.

With over 40.4 million mobile subscriptions nationwide according to data from the National Communications Authority the smartphone has become a high-value target, exposing both personal privacy and livelihoods to predatory criminal networks.

Beyond the devices themselves, victims are reporting deeper trauma. Survivors describe losing not just contacts and messages, but critical data tied to work, education, finances, and even patient care.

A senior emergency physician detailed how she was robbed while coordinating an ambulance transfer, forcing her to reroute critical care instructions through borrowed phones. In tertiary institutions, multiple students have suffered physical assaults on campus footpaths, with some requiring medical attention after resisting theft attempts.

Yet, despite the sharp rise in incidents, public confidence in law enforcement remains fragile. Victims consistently report long delays, lack of feedback, and most concerning requests to undertake personal tracking missions.

One young professional recounted how she tracked her stolen iPhone’s live location for 72 hours without police support, eventually abandoning the case after being warned against confronting suspects alone.

Historical data reveals that mobile theft in Ghana is not a new phenomenon. Its roots stretch back to the 1990s, when the introduction of SIM-card portability unlocked a black market for preloaded phones.

By 2006, international media like the BBC had chronicled the scope of thefts across urban centres. What has changed is the value of the devices both as communication tools and as carriers of digital identities, financial apps, and health records.

Authorities are now under growing pressure to act. Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George recently confirmed that government remains committed to deploying a Central Equipment Identity Registry (CEIR) a centralized blacklist system that uses IMEI numbers to render stolen phones inoperable.

The initiative, long championed by former minister Ursula Owusu, is projected to cost around US$4 million and is inspired by successful deployments in India and the UAE.

Cybersecurity analysts argue that the CEIR could serve as a force multiplier for Ghana’s police by removing the economic incentive behind mobile theft. Without the ability to resell or reactivate stolen devices, criminals may find the risk no longer worth the reward.

But without urgent improvements in public trust, police response times, and citizen protection, such technology may struggle to reach its full deterrent potential.

Until then, for many Ghanaians, the threat of mobile theft remains a daily risk with real consequences not just for connectivity, but for personal security, mental health, and public confidence in the justice system.