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.

Outrage in Apam Atajowa After Friends Filmed Eating Banku on Deceased Peer’s Coffin
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Outrage in Apam Atajowa After Friends Filmed Eating Banku on Deceased Peer’s Coffin

A viral video depicting a group of individuals eating a meal on top of their deceased friend's coffin has sparked widespread condemnation across social media platforms. The incident, which reportedly occurred in Apam Atajowa, features the group consuming banku and okro soup directly on the casket during the funeral service. The footage has ignited a heated debate regarding the boundaries of grief and the preservation of cultural respect for the dead in modern Ghanaian society. The video, which surfaced on the social media platform X on June 28, 2026, shows the friends gathered around the coffin, using it effectively as a dining table. While some observers suggest this may have been intended as a final tribute or a symbolic "last meal" with their departed companion, the visual of soup being consumed over the remains of the deceased has been widely interpreted as a display of gross insensitivity. The casual nature of the act stands in stark contrast to the solemnity and reverence usually associated with traditional Ghanaian burial rites. Public reaction to the footage has been overwhelmingly negative, with many netizens expressing disbelief and anger at the perceived lack of decorum. Critics have raised questions regarding the role of the deceased's family, specifically whether they granted permission for such a display or if the act was an impromptu decision made by the friends. Many commentators argued that such behavior undermines the sanctity of the funeral process and reflects a growing trend of prioritizing viral social media content over traditional values. As the video continues to circulate, it raises broader questions about the evolving nature of mourning in the digital age. While funeral traditions in Ghana are diverse and can sometimes be celebratory, the specific act of using a coffin as a dining surface has crossed a line for many. The incident serves as a polarizing example of how social media can transform private moments of grief into public controversies, leaving the local community and the public at large to grapple with the fallout of perceived cultural desecration.

Rev. Stephen Wengam Urges Pastors in Deprived Communities to Remain Steadfast During Apostolic Visit to Zebilla
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Rev. Stephen Wengam Urges Pastors in Deprived Communities to Remain Steadfast During Apostolic Visit to Zebilla

Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, has called on clergy serving in deprived and remote communities to remain resolute in their divine calling despite the various ministerial challenges they face. Speaking during his Apostolic Visit to the Upper East Region 'B' in Zebilla, the General Superintendent emphasized that the hardships encountered by these ministers are not in vain, asserting that God often performs His most profound work through difficult circumstances. His message of encouragement was aimed at revitalizing the spirits of those working on the frontlines of faith in economically disadvantaged areas. Beyond spiritual exhortation, the visit served as a practical assessment of the church's infrastructure and welfare systems in the region. Rev. Wengam inspected the ongoing construction of the Regional Office project, where he personally pledged to provide essential support materials to facilitate its completion. This commitment is part of a broader effort by the national leadership to strengthen the church's administrative capacity across all regions of Ghana, ensuring that even remote districts have the necessary facilities to manage their congregations effectively. The welfare of the clergy and their families was also a central theme of the engagement. The visit highlighted the contributions of the General Superintendent’s spouse, Lady Mrs. Wengam, who was acknowledged for her dedicated efforts in supporting the families of vulnerable pastors. In recognition of their leadership and the tangible support provided to the local community, the Zebilla local council honored the Wengams with traditional gifts, symbolizing the deep respect and bond between the church leadership and the grassroots members. The gathering concluded with a focus on national stability and organizational growth. Rev. Wengam led a prayer session dedicated to the preservation of peace within Ghana and the success of the church’s upcoming strategic meetings. This apostolic visit underscores the Assemblies of God Ghana's commitment to balanced growth, ensuring that while the national leadership pursues broad strategic goals, the spiritual and physical needs of those in the most remote corners of the country are actively addressed and supported.

MTN Ghana Confirms Nationwide Internet Disruptions Following Undersea Cable Cut Near Côte d'Ivoire
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MTN Ghana Confirms Nationwide Internet Disruptions Following Undersea Cable Cut Near Côte d'Ivoire

MTN Ghana, the nation’s leading telecommunications provider, has officially acknowledged significant internet disruptions affecting subscribers across the country. The service degradation, which has left many users struggling with connectivity, has been attributed to a physical breach in undersea cable infrastructure located near Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. This technical failure is not limited to Ghana; the damaged submarine cable serves as a critical data artery for several countries within the West African sub-region, leading to a broader regional impact on digital communications. In a statement addressing the crisis, MTN noted that the damage to the undersea cable has severely limited the capacity available for international data traffic. This has resulted in slow browsing speeds, intermittent timeouts, and in some cases, a total loss of internet service for millions of mobile and enterprise customers. The company explained that the specific location of the cut near Abidjan makes it a strategic failure point, as that area acts as a primary landing station for major international cable systems connecting Africa to global networks. The incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the region's digital infrastructure. While telecom companies typically have some level of redundancy, the scale of this particular cable cut has overwhelmed existing backup systems. Repairing undersea cables is a complex logistical operation that requires specialized repair vessels equipped with deep-sea submersibles to retrieve and splice the severed fiber-optic lines. Consequently, restoration times can vary depending on the availability of these vessels and the prevailing sea conditions near the Ivorian coast. As technical teams work toward a resolution, MTN Ghana has assured the public that it is exploring all possible avenues to reroute traffic and stabilize the network. For now, users are advised to expect continued fluctuations in service quality until the physical infrastructure is fully restored. The disruption serves as a stark reminder of the importance of the digital economy in Ghana and the critical need for diversified infrastructure to prevent such widespread outages from paralyzing business and social activities in the future.

Tricycle Operators’ Association of Ghana to Launch Nationwide Protest Over Dumpsite Closures
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Tricycle Operators’ Association of Ghana to Launch Nationwide Protest Over Dumpsite Closures

The Tricycle Operators’ Association of Ghana has announced plans to embark on a nationwide demonstration to express grievances over the lack of designated waste disposal sites across the country. This decision follows the recent abrupt closure of the Tambourine dumpsite located at McCarthy Hill in Weija, a move that has significantly disrupted waste management services provided by these operators. The association emphasizes that without access to proper disposal facilities, they are unable to carry out their essential role in maintaining urban sanitation. The Tambourine dumpsite was shuttered by National Security authorities approximately one week ago. According to official reports, the closure was necessitated by the severe traffic congestion caused by the high volume of tricycles frequenting the area. While authorities cited public order and traffic flow as the primary reasons for the shutdown, the Tricycle Operators’ Association maintains that the action was taken without providing an alternative site, effectively halting their operations and leaving them in a state of uncertainty. Tricycle operators play a critical role in Ghana's waste management ecosystem, particularly in navigating narrow streets and serving low-income communities where larger waste collection trucks cannot reach. The association argues that the current shortage of dumping sites is a systemic failure that penalizes informal workers who are providing a public service. They contend that the closure of the McCarthy Hill site is emblematic of a broader neglect of the infrastructure needed to support sustainable waste disposal for smaller-scale operators. As the association prepares for its nationwide protest, the situation highlights the urgent need for a collaborative approach between the government and waste management stakeholders. The planned demonstration aims to pressure the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and other relevant bodies to designate permanent, accessible dumping sites for tricycles. Failure to resolve these infrastructure challenges could lead to a significant sanitation crisis if waste remains uncollected in communities across the country.

Prophet Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah Faces Intense Backlash After Failed Black Stars World Cup Prophecy
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Prophet Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah Faces Intense Backlash After Failed Black Stars World Cup Prophecy

Prophet Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah, the founder and leader of the Believers Worship Centre, has found himself at the center of a social media firestorm following the failure of his high-profile prophecy regarding Ghana’s Black Stars. During the buildup to the national team's encounter against Croatia, the religious leader had confidently predicted a victory for the Ghanaian side, a claim that ultimately did not materialize. The disconnect between the spiritual declaration and the actual outcome of the match has sparked intense debate across the country, particularly among football enthusiasts and religious critics who follow the intersection of faith and sports. In his pronouncement, Prophet Adom Kyei-Duah was categorical in his assessment of the game's outcome, leaving no room for ambiguity. He asserted that there was no possibility of a draw or a victory for the Croatian side, framing the Black Stars' win as a divine certainty. Such definitive statements have become a recurring feature in the Ghanaian religious landscape, where several prophets often venture into the realm of sports to offer spiritual insights into the fortunes of the national team. However, the absolute nature of this particular prophecy made it a focal point for intense public scrutiny once the final whistle blew. In the wake of the match, social media platforms erupted with a mixture of mockery, disappointment, and calls for greater accountability within the prophetic ministry. Many users took to platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to point out the pattern of failed sports prophecies, questioning why religious figures continue to make such high-stakes declarations despite the inherent unpredictability of football. While some of the prophet's staunch followers have attempted to defend the spiritual context of his words, the prevailing sentiment online has been one of skepticism, with many highlighting the potential harm such false hopes can cause to the national psyche. This incident underscores a growing tension in Ghana between traditional religious influence and a more critical, modern public discourse. As the Black Stars continue their international campaigns, the conversation has shifted from tactical analysis to the legitimacy of spiritual interventions in the sport. The backlash against Prophet Adom Kyei-Duah serves as a significant reminder of the risks associated with public prophecies, especially those concerning events of high national interest like the World Cup, where the emotional stakes for the citizenry are exceptionally high.

Alleged Members of National Chief Imam’s Convoy Accused of Vandalism During Funeral Rites in Kokompe
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Alleged Members of National Chief Imam’s Convoy Accused of Vandalism During Funeral Rites in Kokompe

Tensions flared in the Kokompe neighborhood of Darkuman following reports that members of the National Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu’s convoy allegedly engaged in acts of vandalism. The incident occurred on Friday, October 20, 2023, while the convoy was attempting to navigate through a congested street where residents were gathered for funeral observances. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as the convoy’s passage was obstructed by the local assembly, leading to a confrontation that resulted in significant damage to private and commercial property. According to accounts from the scene, the altercation began when individuals associated with the convoy reportedly grew frustrated with the slow movement or blockage of the road caused by the ongoing funeral rites. In an attempt to clear a path, some members of the entourage were accused of targeting vehicle windscreens and local business structures. Several private cars and commercial vehicles parked along the road suffered smashed glass, while nearby vendors reported damage to their stalls and merchandise as the group moved through the busy commercial area. The incident has sparked significant concern among the Kokompe community, a hub well-known for its bustling spare parts trade and dense traffic. Residents expressed shock at the level of aggression reported, noting that while the National Chief Imam is a highly respected figure of peace and tolerance in Ghana, the behavior of those allegedly accompanying his motorcade on this occasion was uncharacteristic and destructive. Local authorities were reportedly alerted to the scene to restore order and begin assessing the extent of the financial losses incurred by the affected vehicle owners and business operators. As investigations into the matter continue, there are growing calls for the office of the National Chief Imam to address the conduct of the security and support personnel within his convoy. This event highlights the recurring challenges of managing VIP motorcades in densely populated areas of Accra, where social events like funerals often occupy public roadways. The community currently awaits an official statement regarding potential compensation for the damaged property and measures to ensure better coordination between convoy security and local residents in the future.

Nobyah FM Operations Grounded After Devastating Fire Renders North East Station Non-Functional
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Nobyah FM Operations Grounded After Devastating Fire Renders North East Station Non-Functional

Nobyah FM, a prominent broadcasting station in the North East Region and an affiliate of Citi FM, has been forced off the air following a catastrophic fire on Tuesday, June 27, 2023. The blaze, which erupted in the early morning hours, completely decimated the station’s studio and all broadcasting equipment, leaving the media house in a state of total loss. The incident reportedly occurred shortly after power was restored following an electricity outage in the area, raising immediate concerns about electrical surges as a potential catalyst for the disaster. This event represents a significant setback for media coverage and information dissemination within the regional community. According to reports, the fire started around 5:00 a.m. and was first spotted by a technician on duty who immediately alerted the Ghana National Fire Service. Despite the station's proximity to the local fire station, the response was hampered by significant logistical challenges. Firefighters arrived at the scene but were reportedly unable to effectively contain the inferno due to inadequate equipment. This delay proved fatal for the station’s physical assets, as the fire quickly consumed the entire studio complex before it could be brought under control, resulting in the total destruction of vital broadcasting infrastructure. The General Manager of Nobyah FM, Yaw Boakye, expressed profound devastation over the incident, confirming that no equipment could be salvaged from the ruins. In an appeal for solidarity, Mr. Boakye called for public support and assistance to help the station resume its essential service to the people of the North East Region. While investigations into the exact cause of the blaze are still ongoing, the management is already exploring options for temporary operations to restore local broadcasting. The loss of Nobyah FM is viewed as a major blow to the local media landscape, as the station served as a critical platform for community engagement and regional news.

Ashanti Region: 17-Year-Old Isaac Opoku Remanded for Brutal Cutlass Attack on Mother and Sister
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Ashanti Region: 17-Year-Old Isaac Opoku Remanded for Brutal Cutlass Attack on Mother and Sister

The Kuntanase District Court in the Ashanti Region has remanded a 17-year-old boy, Isaac Opoku, into custody following a violent incident in which he allegedly inflicted multiple cutlass wounds on his mother and sister. The suspect appeared before the court on charges related to the brutal assault, which has left both family members with severe injuries. The court declined to take Opoku's plea during the initial hearing as police investigations continue to unfold, ensuring a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the attack. The violent confrontation reportedly occurred on June 21, 2026, after Opoku, who is described by family and authorities as having a history of drug addiction, discovered that a parcel of dried cannabis was missing from his room. In a fit of rage, he confronted his mother, Grace Yeboah, and his sister, Margaret Oduro, demanding the return of the illicit substance. When the victims could not produce the missing parcel, Opoku allegedly resorted to extreme violence, attacking them both with a cutlass and inflicting deep wounds across their bodies. Following the attack, the two victims were rushed to St. Michael Hospital for emergency medical treatment. Due to the severity of her injuries, Margaret Oduro was subsequently referred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi for specialized care. During the preliminary police investigation, Opoku reportedly admitted to the crime and led law enforcement officers to retrieve the weapon used in the assault. The accused also sustained minor injuries during the struggle and received medical attention before being processed for court. The case has been adjourned to July 8, 2026, to allow the prosecution more time to conclude its investigations and for the court to determine the next legal steps. This tragic incident has sparked local discussion regarding the devastating impact of drug abuse among the youth and the escalating nature of domestic violence. As the legal process continues, the focus remains on the recovery of the victims and the pursuit of justice within the Kuntanase district.

Police Arrest Johnson Kwaku Amankona for Alleged Murder of His 70-Year-Old Father in Benkasa
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Police Arrest Johnson Kwaku Amankona for Alleged Murder of His 70-Year-Old Father in Benkasa

The Benkasa community in the Berekum West District of the Bono Region was plunged into grief on June 26, 2026, following the violent death of a 70-year-old man, Atta Jacob. The victim was allegedly murdered by his own son, 40-year-old Johnson Kwaku Amankona, while the two were working together on their family farm. Local authorities were alerted to the tragedy shortly after the incident occurred, leading to the immediate arrest of the suspect, who is currently being held in police custody as investigations proceed. Eyewitness reports from the farming community indicate that the attack happened suddenly. Neighbors working on nearby plots recounted hearing desperate screams for help coming from the farm where the father and son were situated. Upon arriving at the scene to offer assistance, they discovered Atta Jacob’s lifeless body bearing multiple deep cutlass wounds. The severity of the injuries shocked the local farmers, who quickly notified the police. Preliminary information suggests that Amankona has a history of mental health challenges, a factor that investigators are currently exploring to understand the context of this horrific event. Following the incident, the body of the deceased was conveyed to the Berekum Holy Family Hospital, where an autopsy is expected to be conducted to provide further forensic details for the case. The arrest of the suspect has raised concerns within the Berekum West District regarding the management and safety of individuals living with severe mental health conditions in domestic settings. As the police continue their inquiry, the Benkasa community remains in a state of shock, mourning the loss of a senior citizen in such a distressing manner.

Ghanaian Seafarers Applaud Ghana Maritime Authority for Streamlining Certification and Payment Processes
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Ghanaian Seafarers Applaud Ghana Maritime Authority for Streamlining Certification and Payment Processes

Seafarers operating in Ghana's maritime sector have formally expressed their appreciation for the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) following significant improvements in the delivery of essential services and documentation. For years, maritime professionals faced cumbersome administrative hurdles and unpredictable delays when applying for or renewing vital professional papers. However, recent reforms implemented by the GMA have significantly reduced wait times and streamlined the certification process, marking a pivotal shift in the authority's approach to stakeholder engagement and operational efficiency. Central to these improvements is the modernization of the certification renewal system and the introduction of diversified electronic payment options. Previously, the manual nature of these transactions led to chronic delays that disrupted seafarers' work schedules and contract timelines. The new electronic payment infrastructure allows for smoother, more transparent transactions, enabling applicants to fulfill their financial obligations with greater ease. Seafarers have noted that these customer-focused interventions have drastically eased the burden of maintaining their professional credentials, allowing them to focus on their demanding roles at sea. Responding to the positive feedback, the Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, emphasized that the organization remains committed to achieving international service delivery standards. While acknowledging that the GMA is still on a journey toward perfection, Dr. Ali highlighted that client feedback is a critical component of their continuous improvement strategy. He stressed that the authority’s goal is to create an enabling environment for all maritime stakeholders through enhanced cooperation and the adoption of digital solutions that align with global best practices. These reforms are expected to enhance the competitiveness of Ghanaian seafarers in the international labor market by ensuring their documentation is processed accurately and promptly. As the maritime industry continues to evolve with technological advancements, the GMA's transition toward digitalization serves as a model for other state agencies looking to improve service delivery. Moving forward, the authority intends to further refine its administrative protocols based on ongoing stakeholder consultations, ensuring that Ghana remains a leading and efficient maritime hub in the West African sub-region.

Yaa Serwaa Demands Fair Share of House Built with Partner Bernard Kojo Amid Relationship Breakdown
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Yaa Serwaa Demands Fair Share of House Built with Partner Bernard Kojo Amid Relationship Breakdown

Yaa Serwaa, a mother of three based in the Ashanti Region, has sparked a public discussion on property rights within informal relationships after demanding a share of a house she claims to have co-developed with her partner, Bernard Kojo. The dispute highlights the complexities of long-term partnerships that lack formal legal documentation, particularly when significant assets like real estate are involved. Serwaa asserts that her contributions to the home were made under the expectation of a shared future, which has now been jeopardized by the collapse of their relationship. The history of the couple dates back to 2017, when Serwaa and Kojo first met. Their relationship progressed rapidly, with Serwaa becoming pregnant with their first child just six months after their initial meeting. Over the subsequent years, the couple expanded their family to three children while simultaneously working on the construction of a residential property. Serwaa maintains that she was an active participant in the building process, providing both financial support and physical labor to ensure the project's completion. However, the relationship has recently been marred by significant personal challenges and allegations of infidelity. The conflict reached a tipping point following revelations regarding Serwaa's brief involvement with another man, which she characterizes as a single occurrence before returning to Kojo. These personal tensions have spilled over into a legal and social battle over the ownership of the family home, as Kojo’s willingness to recognize Serwaa’s stake in the property appears to have diminished alongside the breakdown of their romantic bond. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the legal vulnerabilities faced by many individuals in Ghana who invest in property during customary or informal unions without clear legal agreements. As the dispute unfolds, it underscores the necessity for partners to document financial and physical contributions to joint projects to prevent protracted battles. The outcome of Serwaa’s claim may set a local precedent for how contributions to joint assets are valued when a long-term partnership ends in the absence of a formal marriage certificate.

Bishop Daniel Obinim and Prophet Roja Issue Stern Public Warnings Over Family and Marital Matters
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Bishop Daniel Obinim and Prophet Roja Issue Stern Public Warnings Over Family and Marital Matters

In a series of public declarations that have captured national attention, two prominent religious figures in Ghana have issued stern warnings concerning private family dynamics and the legacies of notable icons. Bishop Daniel Obinim, founder of the International God’s Way Church, and Prophet Roja have both recently utilized media platforms to address brewing tensions within their respective circles. These developments highlight the ongoing intersection of religious authority and personal affairs in the Ghanaian public sphere, as leaders move to control narratives surrounding their marriages and the estates of deceased spiritual leaders. Bishop Daniel Obinim has specifically cautioned his estranged wife, the renowned gospel musician Florence Obinim, against disclosing details of their marital challenges during media appearances. In a video shared on TikTok, the clergyman advised Florence to maintain a professional focus during her promotional tours for her music career. He suggested that her media engagements on radio and television should center on her artistic work rather than their private domestic issues. The Bishop further hinted that he might be compelled to break his own silence and share his perspective on their relationship if she continues to discuss their marriage in public, marking a significant escalation in their public discourse. Simultaneously, Prophet Roja has directed a prophetic warning toward former Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo and the extended family of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo. Speaking on Angel FM in Kumasi, the prophet emphasized a sense of impending danger and urged the family to handle matters related to the late religious leader and industrialist with extreme caution. This public admonition follows previous warnings the prophet claims to have given the former lawmaker shortly after her father's passing. The call for vigilance suggests underlying complexities within the Safo family's transition following the loss of their patriarch, whose influence spanned both the spiritual and technological sectors in Ghana. These separate incidents underscore a broader trend where media outlets and social platforms serve as the primary arena for resolving or intensifying private disputes involving public figures. As Bishop Obinim seeks to set boundaries on marital disclosures and Prophet Roja invokes spiritual foresight to influence family decisions, the impact on public perception remains profound. These warnings not only reflect the personal stakes involved but also serve as a reminder of the influential role that religious personalities continue to play in navigating the social and familial landscapes of modern Ghana.