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.

NADMO Alerts White Volta Communities to Bagre Dam Spillage as Typhoon Dolphin Strikes Japan
news|

NADMO Alerts White Volta Communities to Bagre Dam Spillage as Typhoon Dolphin Strikes Japan

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued an urgent public alert for residents in the North East Region of Ghana, warning of potential flooding as the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso prepares for its next spillage. This alert follows the pattern of seasonal water management from the upstream dam, which significantly raises levels in the White Volta River. This regional weather concern coincides with extreme atmospheric conditions elsewhere in the world, specifically in East Asia, where Typhoon Dolphin is currently causing major disruptions across Japan and China. In Ghana, NADMO has specifically targeted communities along the riverbanks and low-lying areas, urging farmers and fishermen to take immediate precautions. The organization advised that the expected spillage will increase water flow through the White Volta, posing a direct threat to livelihoods and property. Residents have been encouraged to relocate to higher ground, secure their valuables, and harvest crops prematurely where possible to mitigate economic loss. NADMO officials are intensifying public education efforts and have committed to monitoring the situation around the clock as the spillage date approaches. Meanwhile, on the international front, Typhoon Dolphin has made a violent landfall in Japan's southern Okinawa prefecture. Packing sustained winds of 162 kph (90 mph), the storm has already injured at least six people and left more than 50,000 buildings without electricity. The typhoon is currently tracking toward the Chinese coast, prompting authorities in Beijing to issue orange-category warnings. Port operations and ferry services in eastern China have been suspended, and all flights at Ningbo Lishe International Airport have been canceled in anticipation of a late-Sunday landfall. The ripple effects of Typhoon Dolphin have also reached Taiwan, where heavy rains led to the cancellation of 78 flights and sparked diplomatic tensions regarding maritime traffic control in the Taiwan Strait. As both Ghana and East Asian nations face these distinct but severe environmental challenges, the emphasis remains on proactive disaster management and emergency response. Whether dealing with the predictable spillage of the Bagre Dam or the volatile path of a Pacific typhoon, local authorities are stressing that early preparation is the most critical factor in preserving life and minimizing infrastructure damage.

Two dead, five injured in Mankessim-Accra highway crash
news|

Bono Police Arrest Nine After Deadly Heist as Fatalities Reported in Nationwide Fires and Road Crashes

Law enforcement and emergency services across Ghana have been engaged in a series of high-stakes operations following a wave of tragedies that includes a violent robbery, fatal house fires, and a deadly highway collision. While the Bono Regional Police Command has made significant progress by apprehending nine suspects in a fatal mobile money robbery, other regions are mourning the loss of citizens in unrelated accidents. These incidents collectively highlight the ongoing challenges facing the nation's public safety infrastructure and the critical importance of rapid emergency response. In Fiapre-Zongo, the Bono Regional Police Command launched a swift operation on August 5, 2026, after receiving a distress call regarding a robbery targeting a mobile money vendor. The violent encounter resulted in two deaths and three injuries. Following the incident, police successfully arrested nine suspects who are currently in custody as investigations continue. This quick response is seen as a vital step in curbing violent crime and providing justice for the victims of the Sunyani-area attack. Meanwhile, fire services were called to handle two major incidents in the Ashanti and Bono East Regions. In Aputuogya, Ashanti Region, an 89-year-old man named Kwaku Opoku tragically perished when a fire gutted parts of a five-bedroom house belonging to Mr. Ernest Boateng. In a separate incident at Kawanpe, firefighters from the Buipe Fire Station prevented a potential catastrophe when a tanker carrying 54,000 litres of petrol caught fire. The driver, alerted by a loud noise from the rear axle, safely evacuated while fire crews suppressed the flames with water and foam, ensuring no casualties and salvaging the remaining fuel. On the N1 highway, the Mankessim-Accra section was the site of a fatal road crash at Abor Junction involving a Toyota Voxy. Two individuals, a man and a woman, were pronounced dead at the scene, while five others sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital by the National Ambulance Service. Rescue teams from the Mankessim Fire Station assisted in the recovery efforts, though the precise cause of the vehicle's crash remains under investigation by the relevant authorities. As investigations continue into these varied incidents, the recent surge in emergencies underscores the need for increased vigilance and public safety awareness. The successful apprehension of robbery suspects and the containment of a potential fuel explosion demonstrate the bravery and effectiveness of Ghana's first responders. However, the loss of life in Aputuogya and on the Mankessim highway serves as a sobering reminder of the hazards still facing many communities across the country.

Akwasi Tweneboa Demands GH¢100,000 Compensation Following Eviction Threat by Late Employer’s Children
news|

Akwasi Tweneboa Demands GH¢100,000 Compensation Following Eviction Threat by Late Employer’s Children

Akwasi Tweneboa, a 39-year-old driver from Mmedoma in Kumasi, is embroiled in a significant legal and financial dispute with the family of his late employer, Don Tano. After dedicating 26 years of his life to the service of the Tano household, Tweneboa is now demanding GH¢100,000 in compensation. The request comes in response to an eviction notice served by the deceased’s children, who have asked him to vacate the residence he has called home since his early adolescence. The relationship between Tweneboa and the late Don Tano began when Tweneboa was just 13 years old. For more than two and a half decades, he served as a driver and household aide, a role that continued until Tano’s death in November 2022. Following the passing of the patriarch, the family dynamics shifted, leading the heirs to seek possession of the property. For Tweneboa, however, the sudden demand to leave after a lifetime of service represents more than just a housing issue; it is a question of recognition for years of labor. This dispute highlights a common challenge in the Ghanaian labor landscape: the informal nature of domestic service and long-term residency. While Tweneboa lived as a member of the household for most of his life, his status as an employee necessitates a discussion on severance and compensation upon the termination of his service. The demand for GH¢100,000 is intended to provide him with the financial stability needed to transition into independent living after having spent his entire adult life under the Tano roof. As the children of Don Tano move forward with their plans for the estate, the resolution of Tweneboa’s claim remains a critical point of contention. The case serves as a poignant reminder of the need for formal agreements in domestic employment to protect both the worker and the employer’s family from such protracted disputes. Whether through traditional arbitration or formal legal channels, the outcome will likely hinge on the interpretation of long-term service and the moral or legal obligations of an estate to its long-serving staff.

14-Year-Old Expectant Mother Zakari Fati Appeals for Public Assistance to Locate Driver in Paternity Dispute
news|

14-Year-Old Expectant Mother Zakari Fati Appeals for Public Assistance to Locate Driver in Paternity Dispute

Zakari Fati, a 14-year-old girl currently eight months pregnant, has made a public appeal for assistance in locating the man she identifies as the father of her unborn child. The individual, identified as Ibrahim, a driver by profession, has reportedly refused to take responsibility for the pregnancy, leaving the teenager in a vulnerable position as she approaches her delivery date. This case has sparked concern regarding the welfare of minors and the legal obligations of adults involved in such disputes. According to the young expectant mother, Ibrahim has justified his refusal to provide support by accusing her of having relationships with other men. Fati reports that the driver has proposed a conditional arrangement where three different individuals should collectively provide for her care until a DNA test can be conducted after the child is born. This demand for a paternity test as a prerequisite for support has left the teenager without the necessary resources for her final month of pregnancy, as she struggles to navigate the complexities of her situation alone. The circumstances surrounding Fati's pregnancy highlight significant social and legal issues in Ghana, particularly concerning child protection and statutory rape. Given the girl's age of 14, the case underscores the need for intervention by the Department of Social Welfare and law enforcement to ensure that the rights of the minor are upheld. As the search for Ibrahim continues, advocates for child rights emphasize the importance of immediate medical and psychological support for the young mother, regardless of the eventual outcome of any paternity testing.

Gianni Infantino Under Scrutiny Over Alleged Six-Figure UEFA Settlement Linked to Former Employee
news|

Gianni Infantino Under Scrutiny Over Alleged Six-Figure UEFA Settlement Linked to Former Employee

European football governing body UEFA is facing significant scrutiny following allegations that it paid a substantial six-figure settlement to a woman linked to a past relationship with Gianni Infantino. The payment reportedly stems from a period when Infantino served as UEFA's General Secretary, prior to his election as FIFA President. This revelation, first brought to light by investigative reports from The Telegraph, raises serious questions about the use of organizational funds to resolve personal matters involving high-ranking officials. According to the reports, the woman involved was a junior employee at UEFA when the alleged relationship with Infantino began. While her identity has been kept confidential, the six-figure sum paid to her has sparked concerns regarding the transparency of UEFA's financial disbursements and its internal governance protocols. The nature of the settlement suggests it was intended to resolve legal or reputational issues arising from the relationship, though the specific terms of the agreement and the exact source of the funds remain a subject of intense debate. This controversy adds a new layer of complexity to the career of Gianni Infantino, who has led world football's governing body, FIFA, since 2016. While the events in question occurred during his tenure at UEFA, the implications for his leadership and the ethical standards of international football administration are profound. Critics argue that such settlements, if funded by the organization's coffers rather than personal resources, represent a potential misuse of the game's financial assets, which are intended for the development and regulation of football globally. As the story develops, there is mounting pressure for UEFA and Infantino to provide a formal response to the allegations. The disclosure serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges within global sports governance regarding accountability and the handling of workplace relationships between senior executives and junior staff. For football stakeholders and fans, the focus remains on whether internal oversight mechanisms are robust enough to prevent the redirection of institutional funds for personal settlements, ensuring that the integrity of the sport's administrative bodies is maintained.

Bulgaria’s Danube River Levels Plummet, Threatening Critical Shipping Routes and Navigational Safety
news|

Bulgaria’s Danube River Levels Plummet, Threatening Critical Shipping Routes and Navigational Safety

The hydrological situation in the Bulgarian section of the Danube River continues to deteriorate as water levels maintain a steady downward trend, posing significant challenges for maritime navigation. As of August 8, 2025, data from the Executive Agency for Exploration and Maintenance of the Danube River (EAEMDR) indicates a further decline in water depth, specifically at the Ruse gauging station where levels dropped by an additional 5 cm. Currently, the river sits at approximately 109 cm below the reference zero point, prompting ongoing concerns regarding the safety and efficiency of regional trade routes. The impact on river transport has been immediate, with strict restrictions on vessel draught remaining in effect across the affected sections. While the EAEMDR confirms that no vessels are currently stranded, several have encountered operational hurdles. A self-propelled vessel recently faced notable difficulties navigating the waters near Belene Island due to the shallow depths, although it eventually managed to pass. However, many other vessels are now reportedly anchored or waiting to navigate through critical low-water zones where depths have been measured at a precarious 1.6 to 1.8 meters. These critical points represent a significant bottleneck for the Bulgarian maritime sector, as the minimum depth requirements for many cargo vessels exceed the current levels. The persistent lack of rainfall and the resulting hydrological drought have forced operators to adjust their loads or pause operations entirely to avoid the risk of grounding. The EAEMDR remains on high alert, monitoring the situation at Ruse and other gauging stations to provide updated safety protocols for the international shipping community and ensure that navigation, while restricted, remains possible. As the trend of falling water levels persists, the broader economic implications for river-bound commerce in Eastern Europe become increasingly apparent. Without a significant change in weather patterns or upstream water release, the restrictions on the Danube are likely to stay in place, further slowing the movement of goods through this vital corridor. Local authorities continue to advise vessel masters to exercise extreme caution and adhere strictly to the depth limitations established by the hydro-meteorological reports to prevent accidents in the increasingly narrow and shallow navigable channels.

Summerland Declares State of Emergency as Bald Range Wildfire Forces Massive Evacuations in British Columbia
news|

Summerland Declares State of Emergency as Bald Range Wildfire Forces Massive Evacuations in British Columbia

The district of Summerland in British Columbia, Canada, has declared a formal state of emergency as the rapidly spreading Bald Range wildfire continues to threaten the region. The fire, which originated approximately 15 kilometers west of the town, has expanded to cover an estimated 5,000 hectares, fueled by persistently hot and dry weather conditions. Local authorities have issued immediate evacuation orders for thousands of residents, highlighting the critical nature of the situation as emergency crews struggle to contain the blaze. The environmental disaster has caused significant infrastructure disruptions for Summerland’s population of approximately 12,000. Beyond the immediate threat of flames, the district has suffered a widespread loss of power, and officials have been forced to issue a boil water notice. This advisory was triggered after untreated water entered the municipal system, posing a potential health risk to those remaining in the area. The combination of utility failures and the fast-moving fire has created a complex humanitarian challenge for local emergency management teams. In response to the crisis, approximately 1,500 firefighting personnel have been deployed across British Columbia to manage this and other concurrent blazes. Premier David Eby has assured the public that the province currently possesses sufficient resources to handle the emergency, despite having issued 39 evacuation orders and 49 alerts statewide. To bolster local efforts, Canada has engaged international assistance, drawing on global firefighting expertise to support the domestic crews working on the front lines. The Bald Range fire is part of a devastating wildfire season that has already consumed roughly 3.9 million hectares across Canada this year, according to data from the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre. This scale of destruction underscores a broader trend of increasingly severe wildfires driven by climate-related environmental factors. As firefighting operations continue, the focus remains on protecting life and property while navigating the ongoing challenges of an exceptionally dry and volatile summer season.

GNFS Prevents Total Destruction as Fire Ravages Pantang Furniture Factory
news|

GNFS Prevents Total Destruction as Fire Ravages Pantang Furniture Factory

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully contained a major fire outbreak at the Pantang Trasaco Furniture factory on August 8, 2026. The blaze, which erupted at the facility located near Oak Lounge in Accra, initially threatened to consume the entire industrial site. Firefighters from the Adenta Fire Station were first on the scene, working diligently to prevent the flames from spreading to adjacent structures and eventually bringing the situation under control before it could escalate further.\n\nThe operation evolved into a collaborative effort as reinforcements were brought in from the Madina and Legon fire stations to assist the Adenta crew. While the fire caused significant damage to the factory's warehouse and a portion of its production line, the strategic intervention of the fire crews ensured that the company’s administrative offices and vital machinery were salvaged. Although a substantial amount of finished woodwork and raw materials stored on-site were lost to the flames, the preservation of core manufacturing equipment provides a critical lifeline for the business's eventual recovery.\n\nFortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported during the incident, as workers and bystanders were successfully evacuated from the vicinity. The GNFS has launched a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire, which remains unknown at this stage. As management begins the process of assessing the total financial impact, the incident serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity for robust industrial fire safety protocols and the value of rapid emergency response capabilities.

Urban Roads Director-General Sets October 2026 Completion Date for Suame Interchange Phase Two
news|

Urban Roads Director-General Sets October 2026 Completion Date for Suame Interchange Phase Two

James Oduro Amoo-Gottfried, the Director-General of the Department of Urban Roads, has announced that the local roads component of the Suame Interchange Phase Two project is scheduled for completion and handover by October 2026. Speaking at a recent stakeholder engagement in Kumasi, the Director-General highlighted that this milestone is critical for providing alternative routes to motorists, which will significantly alleviate the chronic traffic congestion currently experienced in the Suame area. The strategic prioritization of Phase Two aims to ensure that local commuters have viable travel options while the more intensive construction works of the main interchange progress. The project is being executed in two distinct but complementary phases. Phase Two, which is currently trending ahead of Phase One, encompasses approximately 15 kilometers of local roads and includes the construction of three major overpasses located at Anomangye, New Road, and Ebusuakruwa. By fast-tracking these local road networks, the Department of Urban Roads intends to create a robust bypass system that facilitates smoother traffic flow during the construction of the primary multi-tier interchange. This approach is designed to minimize disruption to the economic activities of Kumasi, Ghana's second-largest city. Meanwhile, Phase One focuses on the construction of the central multi-tier interchange and the widening of the road along the Western Bypass. A key feature of this phase is the development of a grade-separated underpass at Abrepo Junction, which is expected to streamline movement for motorists traveling from the Bantama direction. Additionally, the planned road widening between Suame Roundabout and Abrepo Junction is set to increase vehicular capacity and reduce travel times. To facilitate these improvements, the Suame Municipal Assembly is coordinating the relocation of temporary structures currently situated within the project's right of way. This infrastructure project represents a significant investment in Kumasi’s transportation network, aiming to transform one of the most congested transit points in the country. The Director-General’s report of steady progress across both phases offers reassurance to residents and business owners who have long contended with delays in the Suame enclave. As the October 2026 deadline approaches, the Department of Urban Roads remains committed to working closely with local authorities and stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition and the successful delivery of a modern road network that meets the needs of the growing population.

Jorge Messi, Father of Football Icon Lionel Messi, Passes Away in Argentina at Age 68
news|

Jorge Messi, Father of Football Icon Lionel Messi, Passes Away in Argentina at Age 68

Jorge Messi, the father of global football superstar Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68. His death was confirmed on the night of August 7, 2026, following a courageous battle with a prolonged illness. He died in a medical facility in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, a city where the Messi family has long maintained deep roots and where Lionel first began his historic journey in the sport. Reports indicate that Jorge Messi had been receiving specialized treatment at the Rosario facility for several months leading up to his passing. Throughout his son's illustrious career, Jorge was known not only as a father but as a pivotal figure in Lionel's professional life, often serving as his agent and advisor during high-profile transitions, including his tenures at various international clubs and his more recent move to Inter Miami. His health had been a matter of concern for the family during his final months of medical care. The passing of the Messi patriarch has prompted a wave of condolences from the international sports community and fans alike. As the family gathers in Rosario to mourn, the football world reflects on the significant influence Jorge Messi had as the primary support system for one of the greatest players in the history of the game. Further details regarding memorial services and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days as they navigate this period of grief.

Ghana’s Deputy Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sanni Jajah Passes Away
news|

Ghana’s Deputy Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sanni Jajah Passes Away

Ghana’s diplomatic community is mourning the loss of Sanni Jajah, the nation’s Deputy Head of Mission and Deputy Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. His passing, reported in early October 2023, represents a significant loss for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ghanaian government. As a key diplomatic figure stationed in Riyadh, Jajah was central to maintaining the robust bilateral relationship between Ghana and Saudi Arabia, providing a vital link for both political dialogue and economic cooperation. During his tenure, Ambassador Jajah was particularly noted for his steadfast dedication to the welfare of the Ghanaian diaspora. He was deeply involved in facilitating the needs of Ghanaian citizens living and working in the Kingdom, ensuring they had access to necessary consular support and guidance. His leadership was especially prominent during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, where he took a lead role in coordinating the welfare and safety of thousands of Ghanaian pilgrims, earning him widespread respect for his organizational skills and commitment to his compatriots. Beyond his work with individual citizens, Jajah was instrumental in fostering high-level diplomatic engagements that strengthened ties in sectors such as trade and energy. He was known for representing Ghana’s interests with professional distinction, navigating the complex international landscape of the Middle East while maintaining a focus on national priorities. His colleagues within the diplomatic corps remember him as a bridge-builder who effectively balanced official duties with a deep sense of community service. While the specific details regarding his death have not been made public by official sources, the news of his passing has been met with significant sadness in both Accra and Riyadh. As the nation reflects on his career, Sanni Jajah’s contributions to Ghana’s diplomatic presence in the Middle East remain a testament to his legacy of public service. His efforts to elevate Ghana’s standing on the international stage and his devotion to the Ghanaian community abroad mark him as a distinguished servant of the state.

Global Media Alliance and Japan Motors Partner for 16th Corporate Run and Walk to Support Persons with Visual Impairment
news|

Global Media Alliance and Japan Motors Partner for 16th Corporate Run and Walk to Support Persons with Visual Impairment

Global Media Alliance (GMA), in collaboration with Japan Motors, has officially launched the 16th edition of its annual Corporate Run and Walk, a cornerstone event aimed at fostering workplace health and supporting vulnerable populations. Scheduled to take place on September 21, 2026, the initiative continues its long-standing tradition of combining physical fitness with corporate social responsibility. This year's edition is particularly significant as it reinforces a commitment to the Ghana Blind Union, with organizers pledging to donate 25% of all registration proceeds to support individuals living with visual impairment across the country. The event consists of a five-kilometre run and walk designed to be inclusive, taking place simultaneously across multiple regions in Ghana to maximize participation and impact. Organizers have set the registration fee at GH"100, providing accessible entry points for both corporate teams and individual participants. With the convenience of online registration now available, the 2026 edition aims to attract a diverse range of professionals who are looking to balance their demanding work lives with physical activity while contributing to a noble cause. Beyond the physical challenge, the leadership at Global Media Alliance emphasized that the event's core philosophy centers on social impact and personal achievement rather than high-stakes competition. By positioning the run as a community-building exercise, the organizers hope to cultivate a spirit of camaraderie among Ghana’s corporate sector. The partnership with Japan Motors highlights a shared vision of corporate wellness, suggesting that a healthy workforce is essential for national productivity and that corporate success should be leveraged to improve the lives of the less fortunate. As the 16th edition approaches, the Corporate Run and Walk stands as a testament to the enduring power of public-private partnerships in addressing social challenges. The scheduled donation to the Ghana Blind Union will provide much-needed resources for advocacy and support services for the visually impaired. Moving forward, the organizers invite all stakeholders and the general public to join the movement, ensuring that the event remains a vital platform for health advocacy and social inclusion in Ghana’s developmental landscape.