News News from Ghana

The latest news news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Accident Victims Support Foundation Warns of Surge in Road Fatalities as 11 Schoolchildren Injured in Accra Truck Collision
news|

Accident Victims Support Foundation Warns of Surge in Road Fatalities as 11 Schoolchildren Injured in Accra Truck Collision

The Accident Victims Support Foundation (AVSF) has issued an urgent warning regarding a dramatic spike in road traffic accidents across Ghana, revealing that nearly 90 victims were recorded in just one week. This alarm comes amidst a series of harrowing incidents, including a recent collision on the Dzorwulu–Accra Mall road that left several lower primary schoolchildren injured. The foundation describes the current situation as a critical road safety crisis that demands immediate intervention from both state authorities and the general public to prevent further loss of life and injury on the nation's highways. In a particularly distressing incident highlighting this trend, a tipper truck collided with a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus transporting students back from a school excursion. According to the Ghana National Fire Service, approximately 11 children were on board at the time of the crash. The impact resulted in varying degrees of injuries among the young pupils, with reports indicating that at least one child is currently in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This accident, occurring on a busy transit point in the capital, underscores the extreme vulnerability of commuters when heavy-duty vehicles and passenger transport interact without adequate safety buffers. The AVSF highlighted that the school bus crash is part of a broader, more systemic surge in road carnage. Recent data from the foundation also pointed to serious accidents in Bukom and Shiashie, contributing to the staggering figure of nearly 90 individuals impacted by road tragedies within a seven-day window. The organization emphasized that these statistics represent real lives and families devastated by sudden loss or life-altering injuries. As the demand for support services grows, the AVSF is appealing for increased resources and public assistance to help manage the medical and emotional needs of victims and their families. Moving forward, the Foundation is calling for a multi-faceted approach to restore safety on Ghana's roads. They have urged the National Road Safety Authority and the Ghana Police Service to intensify the enforcement of existing traffic regulations and to expand public education campaigns. By advocating for stricter adherence to safety protocols and more robust monitoring of driver behavior, the AVSF aims to curb the current trend of accidents. The organization stresses that the community must adopt safer road practices collectively to ensure that the tragedies witnessed over the past week do not become a recurring feature of Ghanaian transit.

KMA Task Force Demolishes Unauthorized Structures Near Baba Yara Sports Stadium to Restore Order
news|

KMA Task Force Demolishes Unauthorized Structures Near Baba Yara Sports Stadium to Restore Order

A joint security task force led by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) carried out a significant demolition exercise on Friday, targeting unauthorized structures around the perimeter of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium. The operation focused on the removal of illegal containers, kiosks, makeshift pubs, and food joints that had occupied the area. According to the KMA, the exercise was a necessary intervention to restore order, improve sanitation standards, and reclaim public land surrounding one of Ghana’s most iconic sports venues. Public Relations Officer for the KMA, Henrietta Afia Aboagye, confirmed that the assembly had been engaging with the affected occupants for several months prior to the demolition. Official eviction notices had reportedly been issued since January 2026, providing the vendors and residents with ample time to relocate. During the enforcement action, Ms. Aboagye stated that the objective was to enhance the stadium's environment, ensuring it meets the required standards for public safety and aesthetic appeal. While the operation was largely successful, it was marked by a brief health emergency when a female occupant collapsed at the scene. She was quickly attended to and has since been reported to be in stable condition without serious injuries. This demolition is part of a broader effort by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly to address urban congestion and the proliferation of illegal structures across the city. By clearing the Baba Yara Sports Stadium enclave, the KMA aims to mitigate environmental hazards and ensure the area remains accessible for official sports and recreational activities. Moving forward, the assembly is expected to maintain a presence in the area to prevent the re-emergence of unauthorized settlements and to ensure that the surrounding infrastructure is preserved for public use.

Kumensah Kodzo John and Wonder Kwame Kudafa Arraigned in Denu Over Narcotics and Bribery Charges
news|

Kumensah Kodzo John and Wonder Kwame Kudafa Arraigned in Denu Over Narcotics and Bribery Charges

The Denu Circuit Court has granted bail to two men, Kumensah Kodzo John and Wonder Kwame Kudafa, following their arrest for the alleged possession of a large quantity of suspected narcotics and a subsequent attempt to bribe law enforcement officers. The presiding judge set bail at GH"20,000 each, marking the commencement of a legal process that highlights the judiciary's ongoing efforts to tackle both drug trafficking and corruption within the region. The arrests were triggered during a police operation where Kumensah, a 23-year-old taxi driver, was intercepted while driving his vehicle. A search of the taxi revealed 310 parcels of substances suspected to be Indian hemp. Upon discovery of the illicit goods, Kumensah reportedly admitted to being in possession of the substances, though he claimed he had been hired by a third party to transport the parcels to a specific destination. The case took a more serious turn when 32-year-old Wonder Kwame Kudafa attempted to intervene. According to the prosecution, Kudafa approached the arresting officers and offered a bribe of GH"10,000 in exchange for Kumensah’s immediate release and the suppression of the evidence. The officers rejected the offer and promptly arrested Kudafa, adding charges of attempted bribery of public officials to the narcotics-related investigation. The court has adjourned the case to August 7, 2026, to allow for further investigations and the submission of forensic evidence regarding the seized materials. This incident underscores the firm stance taken by the Ghanaian legal system against the narcotics trade and the integrity of law enforcement when faced with inducements. As the administration of President John Mahama continues to focus on strengthening national security, the outcome of this trial will be watched as a signal of the state's resolve in enforcing law and order.

Nirmal Purja’s Expedition Team Struck by Fatal Avalanche on Broad Peak; Four Dead and Six Missing
news|

Nirmal Purja’s Expedition Team Struck by Fatal Avalanche on Broad Peak; Four Dead and Six Missing

A devastating avalanche on Pakistan's Broad Peak, one of the world’s most formidable 'eight-thousanders,' has claimed the lives of at least four climbers and left six others missing. The disaster struck an international expedition team led by the renowned mountaineer Nirmal 'Nimsdai' Purja, who gained global fame for his record-breaking speed in climbing all 14 of the world's highest peaks. While rescue teams and Pakistan Army helicopters were quickly mobilized to the site, the search for the missing individuals has been forced into a harrowing standstill due to adverse weather conditions and visibility issues on the mountain. The affected climbing group was notable for its international composition, featuring mountaineers from Oman, Nepal, China, Pakistan, and the United States. Among the confirmed deceased are Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy of Oman and Pur Bahadur Gurung of Nepal. Their deaths have sent shockwaves through the global mountaineering community. The Alpine Club of Pakistan has issued a statement expressing solidarity with the grieving families, noting the inherent dangers of Broad Peak. Known for its technical difficulty and unpredictable climate, the mountain has a long and tragic history of fatalities among those attempting to reach its 8,051-meter summit. As the search and rescue operations prepare to resume once the weather clears, the focus remains on locating the six individuals still unaccounted for. The logistics of high-altitude rescues are notoriously complex, requiring specialized skills and favorable atmospheric conditions to allow helicopter support to reach the 'death zone' where oxygen levels are dangerously low. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the lethal risks involved in extreme mountaineering, even for teams led by elite, experienced climbers. The global climbing fraternity now waits for updates from the Pakistan Army and Purja’s team, holding out hope for the safety of those still missing on the slopes.

Airport Police Arrest 52 Motor Riders and Impound 71 Bikes for Illegal Racing on George Walker Bush Highway
news|

Airport Police Arrest 52 Motor Riders and Impound 71 Bikes for Illegal Racing on George Walker Bush Highway

The Airport Divisional Police Command has successfully dismantled an illegal motorcycle racing syndicate on the George Walker Bush Highway in Accra, resulting in the arrest of 52 individuals. The targeted operation, which took place on July 26, focused on a stretch of the highway near the Villaggio area, a location that has recently gained notoriety for dangerous stunt riding and high-speed competitions. Law enforcement officials acted following reports of reckless behavior that posed a significant threat to the safety of motorists and pedestrians on one of the capital's most critical transport arteries. During the crackdown, the police impounded a total of 71 motorcycles, reflecting the scale of the unlawful gathering. The seized vehicles include a diverse array of registered and unregistered Royal motorcycles, high-capacity power bikes, and scooters. Preliminary investigations revealed that the participants were not limited to local Accra residents; many had traveled from surrounding areas and other regions specifically to participate in the organized racing event. This indicates a growing network of enthusiasts who bypass safety regulations to engage in these hazardous activities on public roads. The 52 suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to face a range of charges under the Road Traffic Regulations. These include dangerous riding, failure to use protective helmets, and operating motorcycles without valid licenses or registration. The Airport Divisional Police Command emphasized that the operation was necessary to prevent potential fatalities and to send a clear message that such lawlessness will not be tolerated. The police have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a constant presence on major highways to deter similar occurrences in the future. This enforcement action is part of a broader strategy by the Ghana Police Service to sanitize the nation's roads and improve overall traffic management. Authorities have urged the public to comply with all road safety laws and have called on community members to report any suspicious or dangerous activities on the highways. As the suspects await their court appearance, the police continue to process the impounded motorcycles and investigate the organizers behind these illegal racing events to ensure long-term road safety for all Ghanaian citizens.

Asokore-Mampong Municipal Assembly Demolishes Sabon Zongo Slum to Curb Insecurity in Asawase
news|

Asokore-Mampong Municipal Assembly Demolishes Sabon Zongo Slum to Curb Insecurity in Asawase

The Asokore-Mampong Municipal Assembly has commenced a significant demolition operation at the Sabon Zongo slum in Asawase, aimed at dismantling what officials describe as a notorious haven for criminal activity. The exercise, which began on July 30, 2026, saw the removal of numerous illegal structures that have long been associated with insecurity in the municipality. Heavily armed military and police personnel were deployed to oversee the process, ensuring that the assembly’s task force could carry out the demolition without violent interference and maintain public order throughout the area. Local authorities moved in following a surge in criminal reports, most notably a recent high-profile murder case involving a young man named Yusuf Zakari. The killing, allegedly linked to criminal gangs operating within the slum’s labyrinthine alleys, served as a catalyst for the assembly's decisive action. According to municipal officials, the area had become a hub for drug peddling, robbery, and other illicit behaviors that threatened the safety of law-abiding residents in the New Zongo community and surrounding neighborhoods. The demolition has drawn a spectrum of reactions from the local population. While many residents expressed relief and supported the assembly’s efforts to flush out criminals, others voiced concerns regarding the displacement of individuals and the long-term effectiveness of such measures. Supporters of the move believe that removing the physical structures used by gangs is a necessary first step in restoring order and peace to the Asawase area, which has seen fluctuating crime rates in recent months. However, community advocates and some displaced residents are urging the government to look beyond structural demolition. There are growing calls for the Asokore-Mampong Municipal Assembly to implement enhanced policing strategies and comprehensive social programs to address the root causes of crime, such as unemployment and lack of infrastructure. As the debris is cleared, the focus now shifts to whether the assembly will follow through with redevelopment plans or if further security interventions will be required to maintain the hard-won calm in this part of the municipality.

Government to Commemorate First Anniversary of ‘Departed Eight’ Helicopter Crash with National Tributes
news|

Government to Commemorate First Anniversary of ‘Departed Eight’ Helicopter Crash with National Tributes

The Government of Ghana has announced a series of national commemorative activities to mark the first anniversary of the tragic August 6, 2025, helicopter crash. This incident, which claimed the lives of eight senior government officials and military personnel now collectively known as the "Departed Eight," remains a somber moment in the nation's recent history. Under the administration of President John Mahama, the government has scheduled a week-long program of events beginning on July 30 and culminating on August 7, 2026, aimed at honoring the memory of those lost and reaffirming the state's commitment to their families. According to details provided by Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the tribute will include several significant milestones designed to engage the public and provide closure. The program begins with formal presentations of support to the bereaved families, followed by public memorial lectures and a national inter-faith service. A central highlight of the week will be the unveiling of a cenotaph, a permanent monument dedicated to the victims that will serve as a lasting testament to their service and sacrifice to the Republic of Ghana. In addition to the formal ceremonies, the government has integrated a humanitarian component into the anniversary activities. A nationwide blood donation drive is scheduled to take place from August 6 to August 7, intended to provide life-saving resources to health facilities while fostering a spirit of patriotism among citizens. By linking this memorial to an act of public service, the government aims to ensure that the legacy of the "Departed Eight" continues to inspire national duty and unity across the country as Ghana reflects on this significant loss one year later.

Family of Bukom Junction Crash Victim Esther Arthur Petitions Gender Ministry Ahead of Funeral
news|

Family of Bukom Junction Crash Victim Esther Arthur Petitions Gender Ministry Ahead of Funeral

The family of the late Esther Arthur, a victim of the tragic Bukom Junction accident, recently paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection. The visit was aimed at officially informing the Ministry of the funeral arrangements for the deceased and seeking government support during this period of mourning. Esther Arthur lost her life on July 27 when a vehicle suffered brake failure and careened into a group of pedestrians at the busy junction, a tragedy that also left seven other individuals with various degrees of injury. During the meeting, the Ministry expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and emphasized its commitment to supporting them through this difficult time. One of the primary concerns raised during the visit was the insensitive circulation of graphic images of the victim's body on social media. In response, the Gender Ministry revealed that it is collaborating closely with the National Security Secretariat to identify and remove these distressing visuals from online platforms. This measure is intended to preserve the dignity of the late Esther Arthur and shield her grieving family from further psychological trauma. The family used the opportunity to formally invite the Minister and other government officials to the funeral service, which is scheduled to take place on August 4. Ministry officials assured the family that the funeral details would be forwarded to President John Mahama and the Vice President for consideration and potential state support. As the family prepares for the final rites, they are calling for solidarity from the general public and the Bukom community, while the Ministry continues to engage with them to ensure a dignified farewell for the deceased.

Nigeria's NAPTIP Rescues 202 Human Trafficking Victims in Katsina State within Seven Months
news|

Nigeria's NAPTIP Rescues 202 Human Trafficking Victims in Katsina State within Seven Months

Nigeria’s National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has successfully rescued 202 victims of human trafficking in Katsina State during the first seven months of 2026. This significant milestone in the fight against modern slavery underscores the persistent vulnerability of individuals in the region and the aggressive tactics employed by trafficking syndicates despite intensified government intervention. The rescues highlight a critical period of activity for the agency as it seeks to curb the illegal movement and exploitation of persons across Nigerian borders. The Katsina State Commander of NAPTIP, Musa Aliyu, disclosed these figures during an event commemorating the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed globally on July 30. According to Commander Aliyu, the 202 rescues conducted between January and July serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing security and humanitarian challenges in the state. He emphasized that traffickers continue to devise sophisticated methods to lure and exploit unsuspecting citizens, often leveraging economic desperation to promise fraudulent opportunities that lead to severe human rights abuses. Despite the agency’s consistent efforts to sensitize the public through various awareness campaigns, the high volume of rescues suggests that the root drivers of trafficking—including poverty and the strategic geographic location of Katsina—remain formidable obstacles. The state serves as a frequent transit point for traffickers attempting to move victims toward North Africa and eventually Europe. NAPTIP has responded by strengthening its surveillance operations and intelligence-sharing protocols to better identify and intercept these illicit networks before they can move victims across international lines. Moving forward, NAPTIP has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to both the prosecution of traffickers and the comprehensive rehabilitation of survivors. The agency is calling for increased community vigilance and deeper collaboration between law enforcement, local traditional leaders, and civil society organizations to dismantle the infrastructure of human trafficking. As Nigeria continues to address this global menace, the recent operations in Katsina underscore the necessity of a sustained, multi-sectoral approach to protect the most vulnerable and ensure justice for those affected.

Apostle Safo Kantanka Laid to Rest at Gomoa Mpota Amid Legal Battles and Strategic Decoy Move
news|

Apostle Safo Kantanka Laid to Rest at Gomoa Mpota Amid Legal Battles and Strategic Decoy Move

The final funeral rites and burial of the renowned inventor and founder of the Kristo Asafo Mission, Apostle Professor Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, have been concluded at Gomoa Mpota, despite a deepening family rift and a pending court injunction. Sarah Adwoa Safo, the late Apostle's daughter and former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, spearheaded the proceedings amid intense legal disputes that threatened to halt the ceremony. The event, which drew significant public attention, celebrated the legacy of a man revered for his technological innovations and spiritual leadership, even as the process was overshadowed by internal discord and allegations of procedural irregularities regarding the handling of his remains.\n\nIn a dramatic revelation following the burial, Dr. Isaac Ofori Tieku, the late Apostle’s personal physician, confirmed that the body was secretly transported from Accra to the Apostle Kwadwo Safo Centre at Gomoa Mpota to evade interference. According to Dr. Tieku, the organizers received intelligence regarding an opposing family faction's plans to block the transport of the body. To bypass this, a Kantanka-branded ambulance was used as a decoy to mislead those attempting to intervene, while a separate, unmarked vehicle successfully delivered the body to the funeral grounds. Dr. Tieku attributed the success of this operation to divine guidance and the values of resilience and strategic thinking instilled by the Apostle himself.\n\nThe atmosphere surrounding the rites was fraught with controversy, including public rumors that a substitute might be used in place of the body during the ceremony. Sarah Adwoa Safo attended the funeral wearing a medical arm brace, a detail that garnered public interest alongside her brother’s earlier attempts to announce the cancellation of the event. The rites at Independence Square and Gomoa Mpota proceeded despite a 10-day interim injunction issued by the Accra High Court. The friction within the family prompted commentary from public figures such as Ghanaian actor Timothy Bentum, who used the occasion to warn against the complexities of polygamy, citing the Safo family’s dispute as a cautionary example for the youth.\n\nWhile the burial has been physically completed, the legal and social ramifications of proceeding despite a court order remain a point of concern. The absence of notable figures like Bishop Kwabena Asiamah, popularly known as Ajagurajah, also sparked discussion, though he clarified that his absence was not a mark of disrespect toward his spiritual father. As the dust settles on the funeral of one of Ghana’s most prominent religious and industrial icons, the focus shifts back to the High Court, where the resolution of the family's legal battle will likely determine the long-term management of the Apostle's extensive estate and the future leadership of the Kristo Asafo Mission.

Final Rites Set for Matriarchs Madam Gladys Naa-Afi Dodoo in Accra and Mrs. Betty Koranteng Okan in Texas
news|

Final Rites Set for Matriarchs Madam Gladys Naa-Afi Dodoo in Accra and Mrs. Betty Koranteng Okan in Texas

The families and communities of Madam Gladys Naa-Afi Dodoo and Mrs. Betty Koranteng Okan have officially announced the funeral arrangements for the two matriarchs, whose passing has left a significant void in their respective circles in Ghana and the United States. Madam Dodoo, a venerable centenarian-to-be who passed away at the age of 98, will be honored in Accra this August, while Mrs. Okan’s life will be celebrated through a series of services in Arlington, Texas. These announcements serve as a formal call to friends, relatives, and well-wishers to join in paying their final respects to two women who lived impactful lives dedicated to their families and faith. In Accra, the life of Madam Gladys Naa-Afi Dodoo will be commemorated on Thursday, August 6, 2026. Madam Dodoo passed away on July 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy spanning nearly a century. Her funeral proceedings will be held at the Cathedral Church of the Most Holy Trinity in Accra, beginning with a pre-burial and burial service at 8:30 am, followed immediately by thanksgiving and final funeral rites at the same venue. The family has specified that there will be no wakekeeping, and the interment will be conducted as a private burial. She is survived by her children, Edwin Kwarteng Bekoe and Sophia Frema Annan, as well as seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Across the Atlantic, the Ghanaian community in the United States prepares for the "Call to Glory" services for Mrs. Betty Koranteng Okan. Her transition will be marked by a multi-day celebration of life in Arlington and Grand Prairie, Texas, starting on Friday, August 21, 2026, with a viewing at the Moore Bowen Road Funeral Home. A memorial service is scheduled for the following morning, Saturday, August 22, at the Wesley Methodist Church, followed by burial at Moore Funeral Home. The final funeral rites, where attendees are requested to wear black and white attire, will take place on Saturday evening at the Divine Grace Church in Arlington. The weekend of tributes will conclude on Sunday, August 23, with a thanksgiving service at the Presbyterian Church of Ghana Resurrection Congregation DFW in Grand Prairie. Mrs. Okan is survived by her widower, Daniel Okan, and a large family including her children Erica, Mitzi, Betsy-Ann, Lilian, Agnes, and Sammy, alongside in-laws Kweku Boateng and Frank Marfo. For both families, these ceremonies represent a transition from mourning to the celebration of long-lived legacies. As the dates approach, the respective communities are expected to gather in large numbers to offer support and reflect on the contributions of these two women to their families and the broader Ghanaian society, whether at home in Accra or within the vibrant diaspora in Texas.

Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly Empowers 61 Persons with Disabilities with GH¢142,500 Support Package
news|

Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly Empowers 61 Persons with Disabilities with GH¢142,500 Support Package

The Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly has underscored its commitment to social inclusion by distributing tools and financial aid worth GH¢142,500 to 61 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) within the municipality. This initiative, designed to foster economic independence and alleviate poverty, was executed through the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development. The support package aims to transition beneficiaries from dependency to self-reliance, ensuring they can contribute meaningfully to the local economy and improve their overall standard of living. The support was meticulously tailored to the specific entrepreneurial needs of the recipients. Among the items distributed were deep freezers, industrial sewing machines, and a laptop, alongside direct financial assistance. The 61 beneficiaries comprised 36 males and 25 females, reflecting a diverse range of vocational interests. By providing these essential tools of trade, the Assembly is addressing the physical and financial barriers that often prevent PWDs from establishing or expanding their small-scale businesses, thereby promoting long-term financial stability. During the presentation ceremony, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Kalamu Musah Adamu, reiterated the government's dedication to improving the welfare of PWDs across Ghana. He highlighted that the increased allocation from the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) specifically for PWDs is a testament to the administration's proactive stance on social protection. He urged the beneficiaries to utilize the equipment and funds for their intended purposes, warning against the sale of the items which are meant to serve as long-term assets for their livelihoods. The beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude for the intervention, noting that the equipment would provide a sustainable source of income for their families. This exercise is part of a broader national strategy to ensure that no citizen is left behind in the country's development agenda. Moving forward, the Assembly's Department of Social Welfare is expected to conduct follow-up monitoring to ensure the tools are being utilized effectively, ensuring that the investment yields the desired socio-economic impact within the Ablekuma North community.