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.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Commissions St. Jude’s Catholic Church, Honoring Philanthropic Commitment to Fr. Andrew Campbell
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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Commissions St. Jude’s Catholic Church, Honoring Philanthropic Commitment to Fr. Andrew Campbell

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has officially commissioned the newly constructed St. Jude’s Catholic Church in New Weija, Accra, marking the fulfillment of a personal promise to his longtime friend, Rev. Fr. Andrew Campbell. The project, which Bawumia supported through personal contributions, stands as a symbol of his ongoing dedication to community development and interfaith cooperation. The commissioning ceremony was attended by various community leaders and parishioners who gathered to celebrate the completion of the modern place of worship. During the event, Rev. Fr. Andrew Campbell offered a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Bawumia, recounting the former Vice President’s consistent history of coming to the aid of the church and the poor. Fr. Campbell highlighted several instances where Bawumia intervened during times of financial distress, providing critical support for church operations and community outreach programs. He noted that Bawumia’s assistance often arrived without fanfare, focusing on the immediate needs of the ministry and the welfare of its most vulnerable members. A central theme of the ceremony was Dr. Bawumia’s extensive work with Lepers Aid Ghana and his advocacy for those affected by leprosy. Fr. Campbell, a long-time advocate for the marginalized, praised the former Vice President for his dedication to the Weija Leprosarium, specifically citing his provision of food and medical treatment for cured leprosy patients. These efforts, according to Fr. Campbell, have been vital in restoring dignity to individuals who are often overlooked or stigmatized by society, ensuring they are treated as worthy and equal citizens. The commissioning of St. Jude’s Catholic Church underscores a broader narrative of Dr. Bawumia’s philanthropic legacy, which has frequently transcended his political office. By prioritizing social interventions and supporting religious infrastructure, he has reinforced a commitment to holistic national development. The new church is expected to serve as more than just a religious center; it will act as a hub for continued charitable activities and social support within the New Weija community, carrying forward the partnership between the former Vice President and Fr. Campbell’s humanitarian missions.

Gardaí Charge Two Men Following €2.3 Million Drug Seizure in Dublin
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Gardaí Charge Two Men Following €2.3 Million Drug Seizure in Dublin

Authorities in Dublin have charged two men, aged in their 50s and 60s, following a major law enforcement operation that resulted in the seizure of illegal drugs with an estimated street value exceeding €2.3 million (£1.9 million). The operation, conducted by the Gardaí, targeted a significant drug trafficking network and led to the discovery of substantial quantities of cocaine, MDMA, and cannabis across multiple locations and a vehicle. The initial phase of the Gardaí operation uncovered approximately 18 kilograms of suspected cocaine, valued at €1.8 million. Subsequent searches led officers to a vehicle where an additional four kilograms of cocaine, worth an estimated €400,000 (£343,000), was found hidden. The scale of the discovery suggests a sophisticated distribution effort, prompting immediate charges of drug trafficking against the two suspects involved. In addition to the cocaine haul, law enforcement officials recovered 5,000 MDMA tablets with an estimated market value of €50,000 and four kilograms of cannabis worth approximately €56,000. The variety and volume of the narcotics seized indicate the broad scope of the illicit trade being facilitated by the group under investigation. The two men were arrested on suspicion of trafficking and have remained in custody since the operation concluded on Friday. Both suspects are scheduled to appear before the Dublin District Court on Monday to face formal charges. While the arrests and seizures represent a significant breakthrough for Irish authorities, the Gardaí have confirmed that investigations remain active. Police are expected to continue their inquiries to determine the origin of the narcotics and identify any further links to wider criminal syndicates operating within the region.

Awutu-Senya Residents and Local Authorities Organize Massive Clean-Up Ahead of Awubia Festival
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Awutu-Senya Residents and Local Authorities Organize Massive Clean-Up Ahead of Awubia Festival

Residents of Awutu Bereku in the Awutu-Senya District have undertaken a large-scale clean-up exercise to prepare for the upcoming annual Awubia Festival. The initiative was launched in response to President John Mahama’s national call for cleaner environments and a nationwide sanitation campaign. By mobilizing community members, the exercise seeks to ensure a hygienic atmosphere for the upcoming festivities while promoting long-term public health goals across the district. The collaboration reflects a unified effort to improve local living standards through proactive environmental management. The clean-up was a collaborative effort involving the Awutu-Senya District Assembly, the Awutu Traditional Council, and waste management firm Zoomlion Ghana. Under the leadership of district officials, participants focused on critical public areas, including local markets, schools, and major roads. Specific activities included the desilting of choked gutters and the clearing of accumulated refuse, addressing immediate sanitation concerns that often lead to environmental degradation and structural damage during rains. Beyond the aesthetic improvements for the festival, the organizers emphasized the vital health benefits of the exercise. By removing stagnant water and waste, the community aims to reduce mosquito breeding sites and combat the spread of malaria and other communicable diseases. Participants and local leaders highlighted the importance of such initiatives in safeguarding the well-being of residents, particularly during large social gatherings like the Awubia Festival, where public health risks can be elevated. Following the exercise, community members called for the sustained organization of these clean-ups and their extension to other parts of the district. There was also a strong appeal for local authorities to strictly enforce sanitation laws to deter indiscriminate dumping and ensure continuous cleanliness. Residents expressed hope that this proactive approach would foster a culture of environmental responsibility that lasts well beyond the festival season, setting a standard for other communities to follow.

Northern Regional Police Arrest Two Suspects in Fatal Shooting of Yidani Chief and Son
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Northern Regional Police Arrest Two Suspects in Fatal Shooting of Yidani Chief and Son

The Northern Regional Police Command has successfully apprehended two suspects in connection with the brutal murder of the newly enskinned Chief of Yidani, Naa Ntimla Nwenisim, and his son, Ntimla Bilaga. The suspects, identified as 25-year-old Majejiba Magne and 34-year-old Haruna Nlegle, were taken into custody following an intensive investigation into the August 14, 2026, attack that shocked the local community. The arrests mark a significant breakthrough in a case that has seen increased security presence and heightened tensions in the region since the fatal incident occurred. The attack took place in the early hours of August 14, at approximately 3:00 AM, when three armed men stormed the chief’s residence. According to police reports, the assailants forcibly demanded to be shown the room of the newly enskinned traditional ruler. When their demands were met with resistance, the attackers broke into the room and opened fire on both Naa Ntimla Nwenisim and his son. A subsequent post-mortem examination confirmed that both victims succumbed to severe injuries consistent with shotgun wounds, highlighting the violent nature of the targeted assault. Following the murders, the Northern Regional Police intensified their intelligence-gathering efforts and surveillance in Yidani and surrounding areas. This led to the successful interception of Magne and Nlegle on August 26 as they were traveling from Dombine toward Chereponi. The suspects have since been remanded into custody to assist with ongoing investigations. While two suspects are now in police hands, the authorities are continuing their efforts to identify and locate any other accomplices who may have been involved in the planning or execution of the crime. In the wake of these developments, the Police Command has urged residents of Yidani to remain calm and refrain from any acts of vigilantism that could compromise the judicial process. Authorities have called upon members of the public to continue providing credible information that could aid the case, assuring all informants of strict confidentiality. The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the Northern Region, emphasizing that they are working diligently to ensure justice is served for the victims and their families.

Ibrahim "Powder Guy" Kpa Granted GH¢400,000 Bail Over Alleged $32,000 Visa Fraud
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Ibrahim "Powder Guy" Kpa Granted GH¢400,000 Bail Over Alleged $32,000 Visa Fraud

Ibrahim Kailani Kpa, a prominent social media influencer known as "Powder Guy," has appeared before an Accra Circuit Court to face charges of defrauding seven individuals of a total of $32,000. Kpa, who is also identified as a tiler from Oyarifa-Teiman, pleaded not guilty to the charges during his recent court appearance. The prosecution alleges that the accused misled his victims by promising to secure travel visas to high-demand destinations, including Canada, the United States, and Nicaragua, but failed to deliver after receiving significant payments. According to the prosecution's case, Kpa utilized his social media presence on platforms such as TikTok and Facebook to advertise visa acquisition services. Between 2023 and 2024, the seven complainants reportedly paid Kpa sums ranging from $2,000 to $9,000 each, based on his assurances that their travel documents would be processed within a month. However, once the funds were collected, Kpa allegedly became unreachable and went missing, prompting the victims to file formal complaints with the police which eventually led to his arrest in Accra. During the court proceedings, Kpa admitted to receiving the funds but offered a defense centered on missing accomplices. He claimed that he had disbursed the $32,000 to unnamed associates who were responsible for the actual visa processing but failed to fulfill their obligations and subsequently vanished. Despite these claims, the prosecution opposed bail, citing the need for further investigation to locate these alleged accomplices. Nevertheless, the court granted Kpa bail in the sum of GH¢400,000 with specific conditions, pending the next hearing. This case highlights the growing trend of visa-related scams perpetrated through social media platforms in Ghana. As investigations continue, authorities are working to verify Kpa's claims regarding his associates and determine the possibility of recovering the lost funds for the complainants. The trial is expected to continue as the court examines the evidence provided by the seven individuals who were left both financially burdened and without their promised travel opportunities.

Accra Loading Boy Clings to Speeding Trotro in Viral Dispute Over Unpaid Fees
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Accra Loading Boy Clings to Speeding Trotro in Viral Dispute Over Unpaid Fees

A dramatic scene unfolded on the streets of Accra as a 'loading boy'—an informal worker who assists commercial drivers in securing passengers—was filmed clinging desperately to the bonnet of a moving trotro. The incident, which has since gone viral across social media platforms, reportedly stemmed from a financial dispute between the worker and the driver. According to eyewitness accounts and the footage circulating online, the driver allegedly attempted to speed away without paying the agreed-upon fee for the boy’s services in filling the minibus with commuters. The video captures the high-stakes confrontation as the vehicle maintains a significant speed while the young man holds onto the wipers and the edge of the bonnet to avoid falling onto the asphalt. Onlookers and other motorists can be heard reacting with shock and concern for the boy's safety, as any sudden braking or sharp turn could have resulted in a fatal accident. This dangerous stunt highlights the often volatile nature of the informal transport sector in Ghana, where verbal agreements and daily wage disputes frequently lead to heated physical altercations. Social media reaction to the footage has been swift and largely critical of the driver’s reckless disregard for human life. Many commenters have called for the Ghana Police Service and the Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate (MTTD) to intervene, identify the vehicle’s registration number, and hold the driver accountable. Others have pointed out the precarious working conditions of 'loading boys,' who operate without formal contracts or legal protections, making them vulnerable to exploitation by drivers who refuse to honor payment terms after their vehicles are full. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for better regulation and safety enforcement within the commercial transport industry. While the informal 'loading' system is a staple of Ghanaian urban transit, the lack of oversight continues to pose risks to both the workers and the public. Authorities are being urged to use such viral evidence to crack down on dangerous driving behaviors and to establish more formalised systems for resolving labor disputes at trotro stations to prevent such life-threatening escalations in the future.

Ghana Federation of Labour Mourns Prominent Advocate Ellis Koomson Following His Passing at 44
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Ghana Federation of Labour Mourns Prominent Advocate Ellis Koomson Following His Passing at 44

The Ghanaian labor movement is mourning the loss of Ellis Koomson, a prominent researcher and advocate who dedicated his career to social justice and workers' rights. Mr. Koomson, who served as a vital figure within the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), passed away on August 19, 2026, at the age of 44. His death marks a significant loss for labor advocacy in the country, as colleagues and family remember a man whose life was defined by a deep commitment to the welfare of others and the advancement of fair labor practices. Throughout his tenure with the Ghana Federation of Labour, Koomson was recognized for his rigorous approach to research and his unwavering advocacy for systemic change. He was particularly instrumental in tackling complex issues such as wage legislation and the eradication of child labor, using his expertise to influence policy and protect the most vulnerable members of society. His professional contributions were grounded in a strong academic foundation, including a Master’s degree in Development Studies with a focus on social policy. This educational background allowed him to bridge the gap between theoretical social policy and practical labor advocacy, making him an invaluable asset to the federation and the broader labor community. Born on July 27, 1982, Ellis Koomson was not only a dedicated professional but also a man of faith, a devoted husband, and a father. Those who worked alongside him describe a leader who embodied the values of lifelong learning and service. Beyond his technical skills in research, Koomson was known for his personal integrity and his ability to inspire others to join the cause of social justice. As the Ghanaian labor movement reflects on his contributions, his legacy remains a testament to the power of dedicated advocacy in shaping a more equitable society. He is survived by his family and a community of colleagues who continue to be inspired by his lifelong pursuit of justice.

Georgina Fiagbenu (6th from left), acting General Manager for Sustainability and Shared Value, MTN Ghana, and other staff members at the tree planting exercise
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MTN Initiates Chepa Forest Reforestation as SONABEL Opens Bagré Dam Spillways

Ghana is witnessing dual environmental developments this week as a major reforestation drive begins in the Chepa Forest Reserve while authorities in neighboring Burkina Faso initiate the 2026 spillway discharge at the Bagré Dam. These events highlight a regional focus on ecological restoration and disaster preparedness. While the reforestation project aims to repair long-term damage from illegal logging and fuelwood harvesting, the dam's management serves as a critical precautionary measure for downstream communities often affected by seasonal flooding. The reforestation initiative in the Chepa Forest Reserve is a collaborative effort involving the telecommunications sector—specifically MTN—forestry regulators, and international conservation organizations. The project has successfully begun planting 1,666 indigenous tree species across two hectares of degraded land. By introducing fast-growing varieties, stakeholders aim to enhance soil health and create beneficial microclimates. Beyond the initial planting, the initiative includes rigorous monitoring and care protocols to ensure the survival of the saplings, moving toward a sustainable culture of tree planting to reverse years of environmental degradation. Simultaneously, Burkina Faso’s national electricity company, SONABEL, has officially commenced the 2026 spillway discharge at the Bagré Dam. As of the start of the operation at 9:53 a.m. local time, the upstream water level stood at 234.79 metres. A single spillway gate was opened to 0.41 metres, resulting in a controlled discharge of 47.72 cubic metres per second. To mitigate risks to downstream populations, authorities have utilized sirens and continuous radio broadcasts since Wednesday to alert residents, while high-risk areas have been cordoned off as a precaution. These parallel developments underscore the complex environmental landscape facing the current administration under President John Mahama. While the reforestation drive represents a proactive step toward meeting climate goals and restoring Ghana's natural heritage, the management of the Bagré Dam remains a perennial challenge requiring close coordination with Burkinabé authorities. Together, these actions emphasize the necessity of both grassroots conservation efforts and large-scale infrastructural management to protect lives, livelihoods, and the environment in the sub-region.

Ibrahim Kailani Kpa Denies $32,000 Visa Fraud as Illegal Organ Harvesting Allegations Emerge in Abuja
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Ibrahim Kailani Kpa Denies $32,000 Visa Fraud as Illegal Organ Harvesting Allegations Emerge in Abuja

Legal and law enforcement authorities in West Africa are currently addressing two high-profile cases involving allegations of exploitation and criminal misconduct. In Ghana, social media influencer and tiler Ibrahim Kailani Kpa, popularly known as "Powder Guy," has denied charges of defrauding seven individuals of approximately $32,000. Kpa is accused of falsely promising to secure visas for the United States, Canada, and Nicaragua, leveraging his online presence to attract victims. After allegedly collecting various sums between 2023 and 2026, he reportedly became uncontactable, leading the complainants to seek police intervention. Kpa has been granted bail at GH"400,000 but must report regularly to investigators as the case matures. While the Ghanaian courts handle the visa fraud case, a separate and alarming allegation has surfaced in Nigeria regarding the illegal trade of human organs. Abubakar Marshal, a lawyer representing the well-known social media activist VeryDarkMan, has publicly alleged that a young man in Abuja was subjected to an unlawful kidney harvesting procedure. According to the legal representative, the victim was paid approximately N1.5 million (roughly $1,300) following the surgery. This revelation, made during a televised interview, has sparked concerns about predatory medical practices and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals in the region's capital. These two cases, though distinct in nature, highlight a growing trend of criminal activity intersecting with social media influence and economic desperation. In the Ghanaian case, the prosecution contends that Kpa used his public platform to build false trust with individuals seeking better opportunities abroad. Similarly, the Abuja organ harvesting allegation points to a dark underbelly of illegal medical transactions where significant health risks are traded for relatively small financial gains. Both incidents have drawn significant public attention and calls for more stringent oversight of individuals using digital platforms for commercial services. As investigations into both matters continue, they serve as a critical reminder for the public to exercise vigilance. Authorities in Ghana are expected to provide further updates on the "Powder Guy" trial as the police finalize their evidence regarding the seven complainants. Meanwhile, the allegations in Abuja have prompted discussions on the need for Nigerian law enforcement to clamp down on suspected organ trafficking syndicates. These developments underscore the importance of utilizing only verified, official channels for immigration services and medical procedures to prevent further instances of victimization.

Severe Child Abuse Cases Spark Legal Action and Outrage in Ghana and Nigeria
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Severe Child Abuse Cases Spark Legal Action and Outrage in Ghana and Nigeria

In a series of harrowing developments highlighting the ongoing struggle against child abuse in West Africa, legal authorities in Ghana and Nigeria have taken decisive action against fathers accused of brutalizing their children. These cases, involving prolonged sexual exploitation and extreme physical punishment, underscore a growing judicial intolerance for domestic violence and the critical role of community reporting in safeguarding vulnerable minors. The severity of the legal responses reflects a broader regional commitment to upholding the rights of children within the domestic sphere. In the Ghanaian case, 35-year-old mason Charles Seddoh has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for the repeated defilement of his two daughters in Oyibi, Accra. Seddoh was convicted on multiple counts of defilement and incest following a trial that revealed the abuse had been ongoing since 2018. The case was formally reported to authorities on January 31, 2025, and led to his arrest on February 4 after critical evidence surfaced. Recognizing the long-term impact of the trauma, the court has ordered that the victims receive professional psychological therapy and be moved to appropriate shelter for their protection and recovery. Across the border in Nigeria, police have arrested a man for the brutal physical assault of his two-year-old daughter on August 27, 2026. The suspect reportedly flogged the toddler with wire, leaving her with significant injuries and visible scars, allegedly because she failed to greet him. The arrest was made possible after the child's mother sought assistance from filmmaker and human rights activist Stanley Ontop, who helped bring the matter to the attention of law enforcement. The incident has drawn sharp criticism from child rights advocates who condemn the use of such extreme violence under the guise of discipline. These separate but equally disturbing incidents demonstrate the essential link between public activism and the justice system in addressing domestic crimes. While the 35-year sentence in Ghana serves as a stern deterrent against sexual predators, the swift intervention in Nigeria highlights how whistleblowers and activists are increasingly bridging the gap between victims and the authorities. Moving forward, child welfare experts emphasize that while criminal prosecution is vital, sustained support for survivors and community-based education are necessary to dismantle the cultures of silence that often surround domestic abuse.

Concrete bridge structures on an interchange stand partially uncompleted at the old Kpone Barrier while traffic is diverted onto temporary routes, causing congestion and delays for motorists
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Road Construction Delays and Muddy Conditions Leave Motorists Stranded on Tema-Aflao and Bole Highways

Ghana’s road infrastructure is under heavy scrutiny as commuters face severe disruptions on two major transit routes: the ongoing Tema-Aflao Highway expansion in the south and a critical bottleneck at the Doli Bridge in the Savannah Region. While the 17-kilometre stretch near Tema continues to struggle with long-term construction delays and uneven surfaces, motorists in the north are currently stranded by impassable muddy conditions caused by active roadworks. These dual crises highlight the logistical challenges facing the Ministry of Roads and Highways as it attempts to modernize the country's aging transportation network under the administration of President John Mahama. The Tema-Aflao Highway project, which aims to expand the vital corridor into a six-lane thoroughfare, has become a significant source of frustration for commuters and local businesses. Originally launched in October 2020 and funded by a bilateral loan from the United Kingdom, the project suffered a major setback when work was suspended in December 2022. Although construction resumed in April 2025, the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has expressed deep concern over the sluggish pace of progress. While contractors report that drainage works are currently underway, they do not anticipate substantial improvements in traffic flow until December 2026, leaving motorists to navigate daily congestion for the foreseeable future. Simultaneously, a more immediate crisis has unfolded at the Doli Bridge on the Bole highway, where more than 100 vehicles have become trapped in thick, muddy clay. The hazardous conditions, a direct result of ongoing construction activities, have rendered the stretch nearly impassable for standard vehicles. Local police have been deployed to the scene in the Savannah Region to manage the growing queue of stranded motorists and provide emergency assistance. Authorities have urged drivers to exercise extreme caution and reduce speed when approaching the area, as efforts to restore safe passage continue amidst the challenging terrain. These infrastructure bottlenecks carry significant economic implications, affecting both international trade links to Togo and essential internal connectivity to Ghana's northern regions. For the government, the timely completion of these projects is a priority for regional integration and economic stability. However, the current disruptions have led to increased calls from transport unions for better contractor oversight and more effective temporary measures to mitigate traffic during construction phases. As monitoring continues, the pressure remains on the Ministry to ensure that these critical lifelines are restored to full capacity without further delay.

Ghana Water Limited Restores Water Supply to Western Accra After Construction-Related Pipeline Damage
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Ghana Water Limited Restores Water Supply to Western Accra After Construction-Related Pipeline Damage

Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has officially restored water supply to several communities across Western Accra following the successful repair of a major transmission pipeline. The restoration comes after a period of significant disruption that affected residential and commercial activities in key suburbs, including Mallam, Gbawe, and Dansoman. GWL's technical teams worked urgently to address the damage, which had cut off vital water access to thousands of residents and businesses in the western corridor of the capital. The service interruption was triggered by damage to a 500mm main transmission pipeline during excavation activities carried out by AWERCO Construction Limited (also identified as AVERCO). This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of infrastructure coordination in Accra, where third-party construction projects occasionally interfere with existing utility lines. GWL’s engineering team managed to complete the complex repairs on the high-capacity pipe to stabilize the distribution network and resume the flow of water to the affected zones. Among the neighborhoods now regaining service are Mallam, Darkuman, Kaneshie, and the Dansoman Township. While the primary supply has been reinstated, GWL has cautioned that some customers might still experience low water pressure as the system fully re-pressurizes. The utility provider noted that it could take some time for the flow to return to optimal levels in all areas, particularly for those located at higher elevations or at the far ends of the distribution line. Management of GWL expressed appreciation to the public for their patience throughout the emergency repair period and apologized for the inconvenience caused. Residents who continue to face significant water shortages or persistent technical challenges are encouraged to contact the company through its official communication channels, including its customer service hotlines. This incident underscores the critical need for contractors to exercise extreme caution and consult utility maps before beginning excavation work to prevent future disruptions to essential public services.