Africa News from a Ghanaian Lens

Africa news covered from a Ghanaian lens: regional politics, economies, and the events shaping the continent. Curated from leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

Grief and Tributes Follow Reported Passing of Ghanaian Pastor Prince Elisha Osei Kofi
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Grief and Tributes Follow Reported Passing of Ghanaian Pastor Prince Elisha Osei Kofi

The Ghanaian religious community is in a state of mourning following reports of the untimely death of Pastor Prince Elisha Osei Kofi. As the founder and leader of the Springs of Grace Executive Fellowship, Osei Kofi was a prominent and influential figure within the nation's prophetic ministry. He reportedly passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026, after succumbing to a brief illness. While news of his demise has spread rapidly across digital platforms, sparking a wave of condolences, a formal statement from his immediate family or church leadership is still pending. This lack of official confirmation has led to a mix of profound grief and intense debate among his thousands of followers. Since the news broke, social media has been flooded with tributes honoring the late clergyman. Platforms such as TikTok have become centers of digital mourning, with followers sharing video clips of his past sermons and personal testimonies of how his ministry influenced their lives. The shock of his reported passing has resonated deeply with notable public figures; for instance, Ghanaian actress Nayas shared a heartfelt message expressing her devastation. The suddenness of the report has left many in the prophetic community reeling, as Osei Kofi was widely regarded as a vibrant and outspoken voice who played a significant role in the contemporary Ghanaian Christian landscape. Pastor Prince Elisha Osei Kofi was well-known for his candid and often controversial takes on domestic and social issues. Known for his unfiltered prophetic style, he built a substantial following by addressing modern challenges with a unique blend of spiritual insight and blunt realism. This approach earned him both staunch supporters and vocal critics, yet his influence on Ghana's religious discourse remained undeniable throughout his career. His ministry at the Springs of Grace Executive Fellowship served as a significant hub for those seeking prophetic guidance, making him a household name in religious circles across the country. As the nation awaits official clarification from his family, the ongoing reflections on social media highlight the significant footprint Osei Kofi left on Ghanaian society. If confirmed, his passing marks the end of a notable chapter for the Springs of Grace Executive Fellowship and leaves a significant void in the country’s charismatic movement. For now, the focus remains on the legacy of a leader who was as polarizing as he was popular, with many holding onto hope for more information while others continue to pay their final respects to a man they considered a spiritual pillar and a voice for the voiceless.

Ashanti Region Intensifies Food Security Drive with Poultry Distribution and Irrigation Projects
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Ashanti Region Intensifies Food Security Drive with Poultry Distribution and Irrigation Projects

The Ashanti Regional Directorate of Agriculture has launched a dual-pronged strategy to bolster food security and local productivity through the 'Nkoko Nketenkete' poultry program and expanded irrigation infrastructure. Led by Regional Director Dr. David Anambam, the initiatives aim to reduce the region's dependence on imported food while empowering smallholder farmers. Central to this effort is the distribution of 250,083 day-old chicks—comprising 137,788 broilers and 112,295 layers—alongside 5,581 bags of chick mash to support early-stage brooding. So far, 200 farmers have received initial batches of 50 chicks each, with plans to expand distribution through Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). The livestock initiative is designed to yield immediate results for household nutrition and local markets. According to Dr. Anambam, the broilers are expected to be ready for consumption within eight weeks, while the layers are projected to begin egg production by April. By boosting local poultry capacity, the directorate hopes to significantly lower the reliance on imported frozen chicken. To ensure the long-term viability of these efforts, the regional veterinary services are being strengthened, with a specific focus on animal health and production standards leading into 2026. In tandem with livestock support, the directorate is prioritizing irrigation development to transition the region away from its current 65% reliance on rain-fed agriculture. Under the Food Systems and Resilience Programme (FSRP), new irrigation systems are slated for construction in the Sekyere East and Atwima Nwabiagya North districts. These projects are intended to facilitate year-round farming, specifically targeting a significant increase in rice yields and general crop performance. Dr. Anambam has also called for increased private sector investment in irrigation to complement government efforts and modernize the region's agricultural landscape. Beyond production, the directorate is implementing a comprehensive post-harvest and marketing strategy. Smallholder farmers are receiving specialized training to reduce post-harvest losses and maintain crop quality, which is essential for stabilizing food supplies by 2026. Furthermore, the establishment of farmer cooperatives is underway to enhance the collective marketing power of local growers. By fostering direct connections between these cooperatives and the national School Feeding Programme, the directorate aims to provide farmers with a guaranteed market, thereby addressing the price uncertainties that often discourage large-scale agricultural investment.

37% of SHS Students Exposed to Drugs: Ghana Ministry Shifts Strategy Toward Mental Health Support
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37% of SHS Students Exposed to Drugs: Ghana Ministry Shifts Strategy Toward Mental Health Support

A stark survey released by Ghana's Ministry for Youth Development has revealed that more than one-third of Senior High School (SHS) students across the country have been exposed to drug use or the drug trade. The findings, announced by Sector Minister George Opare-Addo, highlight a burgeoning public health crisis within the educational sector. According to the data, 37% of SHS students and 41% of tertiary students are currently encountering drug-related activities, suggesting that the reach of illicit substances extends deep into the nation's academic institutions. The data becomes even more concerning when looking at specific educational categories. Colleges of Education reported the highest levels of drug awareness and exposure, with a staggering 54% of respondents acknowledging the presence of drug use in their environment. Minister Opare-Addo expressed grave concern over these figures, noting that such high exposure rates pose a direct threat to the academic integrity of these institutions and the future well-being of Ghana’s youth. The findings were shared as part of the “Show Your Love” campaign, which seeks to highlight the urgent need for parental and community involvement in safeguarding students from these risks. In response to these alarming trends, the Ministry for Youth Development is spearheading a fundamental shift in how the state handles drug-related issues in schools. Moving away from traditional punitive measures that often marginalize or expel affected students, the government intends to implement a more compassionate, supportive framework. This new approach prioritizes mental health literacy and integrates comprehensive support systems within youth development programs. By fostering an environment of understanding rather than punishment, officials hope to provide a pathway for recovery and prevention that preserves the long-term potential of the Ghanaian youth.

Marital Success Depends Primarily on Men’s Leadership and Sacrifice, Says Pastor Mensa Otabil
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Marital Success Depends Primarily on Men’s Leadership and Sacrifice, Says Pastor Mensa Otabil

Pastor Mensa Otabil, the founder and General Overseer of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), has sparked a significant discussion on domestic roles by asserting that the success or failure of a marriage rests largely on the man. Speaking during an interview on the Christian Conversations podcast, the influential theologian argued that while men are culturally and socially positioned as leaders within the family unit, this status is not an inherent entitlement. Instead, he emphasized that marital leadership is a profound responsibility that must be continuously justified through a man's actions, character, and commitment to the relationship. Otabil’s discourse centered on a critique of modern power dynamics within the home, where he rejected both the use of tradition to dominate and the use of financial power to control. He explicitly criticized men who equate headship with intimidation or the exercise of raw authority, while also addressing instances where women might leverage financial strength to assume control of the relationship. To counter these trends, Otabil proposed a leadership model rooted in the Christian concept of sacrificial love. Citing Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of service, he noted that true headship in a marriage is defined by sacrifice and accountability rather than the pursuit of dominance. Developing this theme, the ICGC leader urged men to view their roles as a duty of service rather than a position of rank. He noted that because society often looks to the man to set the tone for the household, the man’s failure to lead with respect and care often leads to the breakdown of the union. By shifting the focus from entitlement to duty, Otabil suggested that men must embrace the weight of their marital responsibilities to ensure stability. This perspective challenges prevalent attitudes that confuse leadership with control, advocating for a healthier dynamic where respect and care form the foundation of the home. These remarks come at a time when traditional gender roles are being increasingly debated in contemporary Ghanaian society. Otabil’s call for a re-evaluation of marital leadership serves as a bridge between traditional structures and a more modern, responsibility-driven approach to partnership. By placing the onus of marital health on the man’s willingness to serve and sacrifice, the pastor seeks to promote more resilient and spiritually grounded relationships in an era of evolving social expectations.

Ghana’s MIIF Showcases Investment Potential and Sustainable Mining Agenda at African Mining Indaba 2026
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Ghana’s MIIF Showcases Investment Potential and Sustainable Mining Agenda at African Mining Indaba 2026

The Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) has significantly bolstered Ghana’s presence on the continental stage at the African Mining Indaba 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. Opening on February 9, 2026, under the theme 'Stronger Together: Progress Through Partnerships,' the conference serves as a pivotal platform for Ghana to attract strategic investment and foster collaborations in the mining sector. Led by CEO Justina Nelson, the MIIF delegation is prioritizing sustainable mining practices and environmental stewardship as key pillars for the nation's economic development. During the event, the MIIF leadership engaged in high-level strategic meetings with major industry players, including Asanko Gold and AngloGold Ashanti. These discussions centered on aligning private sector investment with Ghana’s national development priorities. Cape Town’s Executive Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, underscored the importance of such collaborations, noting that the mining sector remains a critical driver of economic resilience across Africa. He called for more robust regulatory frameworks and cross-sector cooperation to ensure that the continent's mineral wealth translates into tangible growth for its people. A central theme of MIIF’s participation is the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into mining operations. Beyond financial returns, the Fund is advocating for initiatives that directly benefit mining communities. Specific commitments discussed at the Indaba include reforestation projects to mitigate the environmental impact of extraction and the promotion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. A particular focus has been placed on empowering women within these communities, ensuring they have the tools and training to participate in the modern mining economy. As the 2026 Indaba continues, MIIF’s proactive stance positions Ghana as a leading destination for responsible mining investment in Africa. By bridging the gap between state interests and global mining giants, the Fund aims to secure long-term value for the Ghanaian people while setting a benchmark for sustainable practices across the region. The successful engagements in Cape Town are expected to pave the way for new partnerships that will drive innovation and inclusivity in Ghana’s extractive industry for years to come.

Ghanaian Higher Education Gains Global Recognition as UCC Launches Africa Ocean Institute
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Ghanaian Higher Education Gains Global Recognition as UCC Launches Africa Ocean Institute

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) and the University of Ghana (UG) have solidified their positions as leading academic institutions in West Africa, following their impressive performances in the 2026 global university rankings. This academic success is further bolstered by UCC's strategic expansion into marine science through the official launch of the Africa Ocean Institute (AOI). The dual achievements highlight Ghana's growing influence in higher education and its commitment to addressing critical continental challenges through research and innovation. Launched by Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, the Africa Ocean Institute is designed to be a hub for multidisciplinary expertise, focusing on the environmental, socio-economic, and governance issues facing Africa's coastal regions. The AOI aims to provide vital policy support, professional training programs, and community outreach. By centering its research on food security, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation, the institute seeks to strengthen Ghana’s leadership in ocean governance and advance sustainable fisheries across the African continent. Parallel to these research developments, the 2026 global rankings reflect the rising standards of Ghanaian pedagogy. The University of Cape Coast secured a placement within the 801–1000 band of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Meanwhile, the University of Ghana earned distinction in the QS World University Rankings, where it was specifically recognized for its high employability outcomes and the strength of its international research networks. These rankings place Ghana's top universities alongside other notable regional institutions such as the University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos. These combined milestones signal a transformative period for West African higher education. The establishment of the Africa Ocean Institute at UCC provides a practical platform for the university to apply its high-ranking academic standards to real-world ecological and economic problems. As these institutions continue to excel on the global stage, they are expected to attract more international partnerships and research funding, ultimately driving the blue economy and educational excellence across the West African sub-region and beyond.

Ghana News Roundup: Diplomatic Push for Slave Trade Justice, Crime Investigations, and Severe Storm Damage
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Ghana News Roundup: Diplomatic Push for Slave Trade Justice, Crime Investigations, and Severe Storm Damage

In a significant move toward international justice, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, representing Ghana's foreign interests in the provided reports, has urged African Union member states to back a United Nations resolution for the universal recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity. This appeal, made during the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery, underscores the deep historical wounds inflicted on African populations and the urgent need for a global framework for accountability and reparations. Ghana’s leadership in this diplomatic effort highlights its commitment to restorative justice and multilateral unity, aiming to secure healing for the continent through a formal acknowledgment of past atrocities and the establishment of a framework for future accountability. While diplomatic efforts continue abroad, security concerns have intensified within Ghana due to a series of violent and criminal incidents. In Gomoa Potsin, located in the Central Region, a 50-year-old woman named Habiba was tragically murdered while on her way to purchase milk. The victim was reportedly on a phone call with her son during the assault, allowing him to identify the suspect and raise an alarm that led to a swift arrest. Simultaneously, the religious community is on edge following an attempted arson attack at Grace Mountain Ministry. CCTV footage revealed a woman attempting to ignite a fire at the church auditorium, prompting public figures like filmmaker Xandy Kamel to advise Pastor Elvis Agyemang against taking the matter lightly. Kamel warned that such acts of sabotage carry severe implications, including the risk of false accusations against church leadership if they are not investigated thoroughly. Beyond security threats, natural disasters have also caused significant disruption to education and community life. In the Bekwai Municipality of the Ashanti Region, a severe rainstorm with destructive winds wreaked havoc on Denyaseman Catholic Senior High School. The storm led to the partial collapse of a classroom block and the destruction of several rooftops, forcing a temporary suspension of academic activities as the campus was littered with debris. The surrounding communities were not spared, with many residents seeking urgent aid for shelter after their homes were damaged. Collectively, these events from high-level diplomacy to local tragedies and environmental challenges paint a picture of a nation navigating complex issues of historical justice, public safety, and infrastructure resilience.

Ghana Faces Mounting Socio-Economic Pressures: From Chronic Food Insecurity to Critical Infrastructure Strains
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Ghana Faces Mounting Socio-Economic Pressures: From Chronic Food Insecurity to Critical Infrastructure Strains

Ghana is currently grappling with significant socio-economic challenges, highlighted by a staggering 12.5 million citizens—representing 38.1% of the population—facing food insecurity. According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), while there was a slight improvement of 900,000 individuals between the second and third quarters of 2025, the overall trend since early 2024 shows an alarming increase in vulnerability. Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu of the GSS pointed to deep-seated structural inequalities, noting that female-headed households are disproportionately affected at a rate of 44.1%. Regional disparities also remain stark, with the Upper West Region suffering the most at a 55.9% food insecurity rate, prompting urgent calls for government intervention to stabilize the nation's nutritional needs. In tandem with the food crisis, essential infrastructure in the Greater Accra Region is under severe strain. Ghana Water Limited (GWL) is currently engaged in high-level negotiations to restore water supply to Teshie-Nungua and surrounding areas following the shutdown of a major desalination plant in late 2025. The facility was closed due to a combination of maintenance issues and significant unpaid debts, forcing residents to rely on expensive private tankers. GWL Managing Director expressed optimism that ongoing talks involving the Ministries of Finance and Justice, alongside the plant’s shareholders, will yield a sustainable solution. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for February 19, 2026, to finalize the restoration of services to the affected communities. The healthcare sector is facing its own set of critical hurdles, particularly at the Ridge Hospital in Accra. Obuobia Darko-Opoku, Administrator of the MahamaCares trust fund, recently issued an urgent appeal to Corporate Ghana for support after a facility assessment revealed a dire shortage of functioning medical equipment. Describing the hospital as being in a "critical condition," Darko-Opoku emphasized that the facility's ability to meet the capital's healthcare demands is being severely compromised by equipment failures. She has urged private organizations and individuals to partner with the trust fund for a comprehensive retooling of the hospital, offering transparent accounting and branding opportunities for donors who assist in the revitalization efforts. Meanwhile, in the agricultural sector, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is working to maintain stability among cocoa farmers amid ongoing economic pressures. During a recent rally in Nkawie, COCOBOD officials urged farmers to exercise restraint, assuring them that payments for cocoa beans purchased in 2025 would be forthcoming. Farmers were specifically cautioned against selling government-supplied fertilizers to foreigners and were encouraged to resist the leasing of farmlands to illegal miners. By emphasizing proper farming techniques and productivity enhancements, officials hope to safeguard the cocoa industry, which remains a vital pillar of the Ghanaian economy during these turbulent times.

Empowering Through Dignity: Grey Launches Inaugural Educational Support Initiative at EFFISCO
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Empowering Through Dignity: Grey Launches Inaugural Educational Support Initiative at EFFISCO

On January 15, 2026, Grey, a social initiative dedicated to educational equity, officially launched its maiden project at the Effiduase Senior High Commercial School (EFFISCO) in Ghana. The program provided targeted support to 31 students, aiming to bridge the gap between financial constraints and academic success. By focusing on both tangible resources and the intangible sense of dignity, the initiative seeks to ensure that students from diverse backgrounds can participate fully in their educational journeys without the stigma often associated with lack of resources. The support package delivered during the launch was specifically designed to cater to the needs of 20 first-year and 11 final-year students. Beyond traditional academic supplies such as exercise books, mathematical sets, and scientific calculators, the project uniquely addressed the students' physical presentation and sense of belonging. This included the sewing of chapel cloth and house dresses, reflecting Grey’s belief that academic performance is intrinsically linked to a student's self-esteem and integration into the school community. By providing these essential garments, the initiative removes a significant logistical and financial hurdle for many families. Founder Ms. Jasmine Adomaa Barnor emphasized that the core mission of Grey is to foster an environment where learning remains the primary focus. She noted that students should not be burdened by worries over educational logistics or the lack of basic materials. Instead, Grey’s approach centers on empathy and empowerment, aiming to redefine how educational assistance is delivered. The focus is not just on the provision of goods, but on recognizing the inherent dignity of every student and providing them with the confidence to pursue their academic goals without distraction. Looking forward, Grey intends for this pilot project at EFFISCO to serve as a blueprint for a nationwide expansion across Ghana. The organization plans to collaborate with local stakeholders and community leaders to identify and dismantle systemic barriers to education. By focusing on sustainable models of support, Grey aims to create a transformative impact across the national educational landscape, ensuring that access to quality learning is coupled with the respect and resources every student deserves to succeed.

Ghana Launches FAIC 2026 to Tackle Africa's Multi-Billion Dollar Infrastructure Gap
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Ghana Launches FAIC 2026 to Tackle Africa's Multi-Billion Dollar Infrastructure Gap

The Ghana Consulting Engineers Association (GCEA) has officially launched the FIDIC Africa Infrastructure Conference (FAIC 2026), set to take place in Accra from May 10 to 13, 2026. This landmark event, hosted at the Engineering Centre in Roman Ridge, aims to confront the continent's staggering infrastructure deficit, which current estimates place between $130 billion and $170 billion annually. With the theme "Future Ready Infrastructure: Advancing Africa through innovation and sustainability," the conference will serve as a critical platform for regional stakeholders to address the financial and technical hurdles stalling Africa’s socio-economic development. Speaking at the launch, GCEA President Ing. Kwabena Bempong highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting a persistent financial shortfall of $68 billion to $108 billion that continues to hinder access to essential services and limit economic growth across the continent. He emphasized that the primary goal of FAIC 2026 is to equip consulting engineers with the specialized knowledge and innovative tools necessary to ensure that future infrastructure investments are both efficient and resilient. By focusing on sustainability, the GCEA seeks to minimize wasted capital and foster development projects that can withstand the unique challenges of the African landscape. The event also underscored the historical importance of African engineers in the global landscape. Keynote speaker Ing. Kofi Asare Yeboah traced the roots of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) in Africa and discussed the formation of the Group of African Member Associations (GAMA), which was established to amplify the voice of the continent’s engineering professionals. Similarly, Ing. Ludwig Annang Hesse, President of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE), noted FIDIC’s long-standing role as a global advocate for the sector since 1913, stressing that African representation in these international dialogues is essential for shaping the continent's future. As preparations for the May 2026 conference begin, the GCEA and its partners are calling for increased collaboration between governments, private investors, and engineering professionals. The FAIC 2026 is expected to provide a roadmap for "future-ready" infrastructure that prioritizes innovation as a driver for progress. By fostering a unified African perspective on engineering excellence, the organizers hope to bridge the infrastructure gap and pave the way for a more integrated and prosperous continent.

Tarkwa Circuit Court Jails 23-Year-Old Man 15 Years for Hammer Attack and Robbery of Food Vendor
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Tarkwa Circuit Court Jails 23-Year-Old Man 15 Years for Hammer Attack and Robbery of Food Vendor

A Tarkwa Circuit Court has handed down a 15-year prison sentence to Enock Appiah, a 23-year-old unemployed man popularly known as "Odanka," following his conviction for robbery and unlawful entry. The sentencing, which took place on January 27, 2026, concludes a case that centered on a violent confrontation in Adjakaa Manso involving a local food vendor. Appiah pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him, leading to the significant custodial sentence as the court sought to address the gravity of the assault and the threat posed to public safety. The details of the case reveal a harrowing ordeal for the victim, Aisha Ayaba. On the day of the incident, Appiah gained unlawful entry into the premises and launched a physical assault against Ayaba, using a hammer as a weapon to facilitate the crime. During the struggle, he succeeded in stealing mobile phones valued at GH¢2,700. This act of violence against a small-scale entrepreneur highlighted growing concerns regarding the safety of local business operators in the region, particularly those working in relatively isolated settings. In the aftermath of the robbery, investigative efforts led to the swift apprehension of Appiah and the successful recovery of the stolen mobile devices. During the court proceedings, presiding officials ordered that the recovered electronic items be returned to their rightful owner, providing a measure of restitution to Ayaba. Furthermore, the court directed that the hammer used during the commission of the crime be forfeited to the Republic of Ghana, ensuring the weapon is permanently removed from circulation. The 15-year sentence serves as a stern reminder of the legal consequences awaiting those who engage in violent criminal activities within the country. By processing the case and delivering a verdict, the Tarkwa Circuit Court has reinforced the message that acts of robbery and unlawful entry will be met with the full force of the law. For the community of Adjakaa Manso, the resolution of this case brings a sense of justice and underscores the vital role of the judiciary in maintaining order and protecting the livelihoods of citizens.

Starsky Aviation A damaged aircraft rests partly submerged on a shallow shoreline, with waves washing against its wing as it lies in clear, shallow water under a bright blue sky.
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Pilot Hailed as Hero After Successful Emergency Shoreline Landing Saves 55 in Somalia

A pilot from Starsky Aviation is being celebrated for a heroic emergency landing that saved 55 lives after a Fokker 50 passenger plane crash-landed on a shoreline near Mogadishu, Somalia. The incident occurred following a critical technical failure shortly after takeoff from Mogadishu’s international airport. In a remarkable display of skill, the pilot managed to navigate the aircraft to a relatively safe landing spot, ensuring that all 50 passengers and five crew members survived the ordeal without serious injuries. The aircraft ultimately overshot the runway and came to rest in shallow water along the seashore. Starsky Aviation has officially commended the pilot’s calm decision-making and swift response during the emergency, noting that such quick thinking was instrumental in preventing a major tragedy. The airline expressed deep gratitude that the established emergency procedures were followed effectively under high-pressure conditions, which allowed for a successful outcome despite the mechanical failure. Following the landing, rescue efforts were quickly mobilized with significant assistance from the African Union’s mission in Somalia and United Nations troops stationed in the area. These international teams worked alongside local emergency services to ensure all occupants were safely evacuated from the partially submerged plane. The Somali Civil Aviation Authority has since launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact nature of the technical fault that led to the crash. As authorities work to recover the aircraft and analyze flight data, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the vital role of pilot expertise and training in ensuring aviation safety across the region.