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.

Zimbabwe Declares National Disaster After Lake Kariba Ferry Capsize Claims 44 Lives
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Zimbabwe Declares National Disaster After Lake Kariba Ferry Capsize Claims 44 Lives

A tragic maritime accident on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe has claimed at least 44 lives after an overloaded passenger ferry capsized amidst rough weather conditions. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially declared the incident a national disaster, highlighting severe deficiencies in maritime safety standards. The vessel, operated by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency, was traveling from Kariba to Chalala near Long Island when it was struck by powerful waves and overturned. While 77 individuals have been rescued so far, search and recovery operations remain ongoing as officials work to determine the final death toll. Investigations into the cause of the disaster point to significant overloading and negligence. Although the ferry was designed to carry a maximum of 90 passengers, reports indicate it was transporting between 114 and 119 adults, along with an unspecified number of children. Survivors and witnesses reported that passengers had pleaded with the captain to return to shore as weather conditions deteriorated, but these warnings were allegedly ignored. The vessel eventually succumbed to high waves, leading to the high number of fatalities as recovery teams continue to search the world’s largest artificial lake. In response to the tragedy, the Zimbabwean government has mobilized a massive search and rescue operation involving local divers, the national army, and helicopter support. Local residents and officials are calling for greater transparency regarding the manifest, as initial reports varied significantly regarding the number of people on board. The disaster has cast a shadow over Lake Kariba, which serves as a vital hub for electricity generation, tourism, and fishing, raising urgent questions about the enforcement of safety regulations on the country’s inland waterways.

São Paulo FC Distances Itself After 86.5kg of Marijuana Found on Contracted Team Bus in Bolivia
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São Paulo FC Distances Itself After 86.5kg of Marijuana Found on Contracted Team Bus in Bolivia

Bolivian anti-narcotics authorities have seized approximately 86.5kg of marijuana hidden aboard a bus contracted to transport the Brazilian football giant, São Paulo FC. The interception occurred near the city of Cochabamba as the team was traveling for their Copa Sudamericana fixture against Bolívar. While the vehicle prominently featured the club’s branding and colors, law enforcement officials confirmed that no players, coaching staff, or club representatives were on board at the time of the discovery, as the bus was intercepted before the team had boarded for their scheduled trip. During the security operation, police discovered the narcotics packed into four large sacks concealed within the vehicle. The bus, which was operated by the third-party transport company Buses Cosmos, was stopped by Bolivia’s specialized anti-narcotics unit. Investigators are currently looking into how such a significant quantity of illicit substances was smuggled onto a high-profile vehicle designated for international athletes. The club has emphasized that the bus was hired solely for logistical support and was not under their direct operational control. Following the discovery, at least two drivers and other individuals linked to the transport company have been detained by Bolivian authorities. Both São Paulo FC and Buses Cosmos have issued statements denying any involvement in drug trafficking and are cooperating with the ongoing police inquiry. The club acted swiftly to distance itself from the incident, clarifying that their personnel were entirely unaware of the contents of the vehicle provided by the contractor. To ensure their sporting commitments were not compromised, São Paulo FC arranged for alternative transportation to proceed with their match schedule in Bolivia. The incident highlights the security risks and logistical vulnerabilities faced by professional sports organizations when operating in foreign jurisdictions. As the investigation by the Bolivian anti-narcotics unit continues, authorities are working to determine the origin of the drugs and whether the branding of the bus was intentionally used as a cover for trafficking operations.

The suspects
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IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno Promotes Four Officers for Dismantling Violent Armed Robbery Syndicate in Upper West Region

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has announced the promotion of four police officers in recognition of their exceptional bravery and tactical precision in dismantling a dangerous armed robbery syndicate in the Upper West Region. The promoted personnel—General Corporal Mortsi Kwashie Divine, Detective Corporal Salifu Ishmael Aketisiwin, General Lance Corporal Ernest Ameyaw Akumfi, and General Lance Corporal John Bekaar Vitus—were instrumental in a series of intelligence-led operations that successfully targeted a gang terrorizing the Wa West District and Wa Municipality. This administrative move underscores the Police Service's commitment to rewarding personnel who demonstrate high levels of professionalism in the line of duty. The criminal syndicate’s operations were characterized by extreme violence and a specialized focus on digital financial theft. According to investigative reports, the gang members typically attacked their victims with machetes, inflicting physical injuries to coerce them into surrendering their Mobile Money (MoMo) PINs. This method allowed the robbers to siphon funds directly from victims' digital wallets. Preliminary investigations have linked the group to the theft of approximately GH"22,070 in physical cash and an additional GH"3,274 taken through MoMo accounts. During the arrests, police recovered seven mobile phones used in these illicit transactions. The operation resulted in the apprehension of six suspects, whose ages range from 20 to 52 years. However, one suspect, 52-year-old Nasiru Abdul Rahman, succumbed to injuries sustained during the high-stakes police operation. Among those currently in custody and assisting with further investigations are Amadu Moro and Adama Yussif. While the primary leaders of the syndicate have been neutralized, the Upper West Regional Police Command has intensified its search for two additional members of the gang who managed to evade capture and remain at large. This successful intervention is seen as a major boost to regional security and a testament to the effectiveness of the current police leadership's intelligence-led strategies. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its dedication to protecting lives and property across the country, urging residents in the Upper West Region to remain vigilant. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities or information regarding the whereabouts of the fugitives to help ensure the total eradication of the syndicate and the continued safety of the Wa community.

Dr Dramani Bukari
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National Petroleum Authority Mourns Death of Deputy CEO Dr. Dramani Bukari Ecomog in London

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has officially announced the sudden passing of its Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Dramani Bukari, popularly known as "Ecomog." According to statements released by the Authority on August 11, 2026, Dr. Bukari died in London following a brief illness. His passing marks a significant loss for Ghana's energy sector, where he was a key figure in the regulation and oversight of the country's downstream petroleum industry. In its official announcement, the NPA expressed profound sorrow, describing Dr. Bukari as an instrumental leader whose dedication was vital to the Authority’s mission. The NPA extended its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. Reflecting the spiritual weight of the loss, the Authority’s message included a reference to a Qur’anic verse acknowledging the ultimate return of all souls to Allah, a sentiment that has resonated with the many industry stakeholders and staff who worked closely with him. The news has elicited a wave of tributes from high-ranking government officials, members of the governing party, and various stakeholders across the petroleum value chain. Colleagues have praised Dr. Bukari’s expertise in navigating the complexities of petroleum distribution and pricing, noting that his leadership contributed significantly to the stability of the sector. His role as a regulator was characterized by a firm commitment to national service and the efficient management of Ghana's energy resources. While the specific details of his illness remain undisclosed, the NPA and the bereaved family have indicated that further information regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services will be communicated in due course. As the nation and the energy industry mourn this distinguished public servant, the NPA has called for strength and comfort for all those affected by his sudden departure. Dr. Bukari’s legacy within the NPA remains a benchmark for future regulatory excellence in the downstream sector.

Ghana National Fire Service and Emergency Teams Respond to Fatal Accra-Aflao Crash and Major Road Incidents
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Ghana National Fire Service and Emergency Teams Respond to Fatal Accra-Aflao Crash and Major Road Incidents

Road safety and emergency response teams have been put to the test following a series of significant incidents across Ghana, including a fatal collision in the Greater Accra Region and hazardous road events in the Ashanti Region. These occurrences, ranging from a deadly pickup-motorbike crash to a massive diesel spill, highlight the ongoing challenges of traffic management and highway safety currently facing the nation. The incidents have necessitated rapid interventions from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) and medical emergency units to prevent further loss of life. On the Accra-Aflao road, a tragic accident between Dawa and Tsopoli has left two people feared dead. A pickup truck, registered as GX 2395-26, collided with a motorbike, resulting in the suspected deaths of both individuals on the motorcycle. While the exact circumstances leading to the crash remain under investigation and the condition of the pickup truck occupants is unconfirmed, the incident has renewed urgent calls for increased protection for motorcyclists, who remain particularly vulnerable on high-speed arterial roads when sharing lanes with larger vehicles. Meanwhile, in the Ashanti Region, emergency response efforts faced complications at Tech Junction-Top High in the Oforikrom Municipality. An ambulance with registration GV 554-24, which was responding to an emergency with sirens blaring, became entangled in a four-vehicle collision while attempting to navigate through heavy gridlock. Although the ambulance struck two stationary vehicles at a red light—triggering a chain reaction with two additional cars—no fatalities or injuries were reported. The incident caused significant traffic delays as authorities worked to clear the damaged vehicles from the busy intersection. In a separate incident within the Ashanti Region, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully averted a potential disaster at Odumase Afrancho. A bulk tanker carrying approximately 13,500 litres of diesel overturned near a fuel station after suffering a steering lock. The GNFS responded promptly to the call, arriving at the scene to manage the massive spill with specialized foam. Their hours-long operation ensured that no casualties occurred and prevented the highly flammable liquid from igniting, ultimately securing the area by late evening and allowing the firefighting team to return to base. These collective incidents underscore the critical need for enhanced road discipline and the modernization of emergency transit protocols. As the administration under President John Mahama continues to focus on infrastructure and public safety, these events serve as a reminder of the risks posed by mechanical failures, traffic congestion, and the intersection of heavy-duty vehicles with smaller commuters. Moving forward, road safety advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and better public education on yielding to emergency vehicles to prevent future tragedies and ensure the free flow of essential services.

Assemblies of God Ghana Leads Gambia Mission as Kristo Asafo Navigates Leadership Transition
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Assemblies of God Ghana Leads Gambia Mission as Kristo Asafo Navigates Leadership Transition

The Assemblies of God, Ghana, under the leadership of General Superintendent Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, has successfully concluded a significant capacity-building mission in The Gambia. This initiative underscores the church's commitment to international missions, particularly as The Gambia serves as the denomination's first-ever mission field, established over three decades ago. The visit aimed to empower local clergy and foster stronger ties between the Ghanaian and Gambian wings of the church, reflecting the denomination's strategic focus on regional spiritual growth. During the visit, the Executive Presbytery organized two primary conferences that reached a wide range of religious leaders. The first session was tailored specifically for pastors within the Assemblies of God Mission, while the second was a broad, non-denominational event that attracted approximately 250 participants, including missionaries from the USA. These conferences centered on pivotal themes such as Servant Leadership, The Power of Unity, and The Role of Prayer in Transformational Leadership. To further cement the bond between the two nations, Rev. Wengam and his wife presented gifts to the participants, an act lauded by the host, Rev. Paul Ampofo Williams, for its motivational impact on the local ministry. While the Assemblies of God expanded their reach abroad, the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana remains focused on internal stability following the passing of its founder. During a recent thanksgiving ceremony held after the funeral of the late Apostle Emeritus Professor Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, prominent church member and fashionista Osebo addressed the congregation. His message served as a call for steadfastness amidst brewing concerns regarding the church’s future governance and leadership structure, emphasizing the need for unity during this period of transition. Addressing the ongoing leadership disputes within the mission, Osebo urged members to remain firm in their faith and dedicated to the legacy of the late Apostle Safo. By declaring that the congregation does not know anyone else aside from the late founder, he highlighted the deep-seated loyalty many members feel toward the founder’s original vision. This sentiment comes at a critical time for the mission as it navigates the complexities of transitioning leadership while attempting to prevent internal divisions from diminishing the spiritual focus of the church. These developments reflect the dual nature of current religious leadership in Ghana: a drive for international influence and the challenge of institutional continuity. Whether through the proactive international outreach of the Assemblies of God or the internal consolidation efforts of the Kristo Asafo Mission, Ghana's religious institutions continue to play a central role in both regional spiritual development and the preservation of domestic faith legacies. The successful Gambian mission and the resilience of the Kristo Asafo congregants both demonstrate the profound impact of Ghanaian spiritual leadership on the African continent.

Jomoro Municipal Assembly Demolishes Unauthorized Storey Building Along Elubo Highway
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Jomoro Municipal Assembly Demolishes Unauthorized Storey Building Along Elubo Highway

The Jomoro Municipal Assembly has carried out the demolition of a storey building in Elubo, located within the Western Region, citing significant regulatory infractions. According to municipal officials, the structure was built dangerously close to the main highway and lacked the mandatory building permit required for such developments. This enforcement action highlights the Assembly's commitment to ensuring all physical structures within its jurisdiction comply with national safety standards and urban planning regulations. The decision to demolish the building follows observations regarding the risks of unauthorized construction in the area. Structures situated too near international transit corridors, like the one passing through the border town of Elubo, can impede future road expansion projects and pose safety hazards to motorists. By taking this firm stance, the Jomoro Municipal Assembly is enforcing the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, which mandates that developers obtain formal approval and adhere to specified setbacks before any work begins. This move is intended to curb haphazard development across the region. Moving forward, the Assembly has urged all prospective developers and property owners to follow proper legal procedures to avoid similar financial losses. It is essential for individuals to consult with physical planning departments and secure all necessary documentation before commencing construction. Under the current administration of President John Mahama, there is a renewed emphasis on local government accountability and the strict enforcement of building codes to foster safe and orderly growth. This incident serves as a stern reminder that the law will be upheld to protect public interest and ensure sustainable urban development.

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Presidential Special Envoy KKD Addresses Son’s Transgender Identity in Starr FM Interview

Kwasi Kyei Darkwah (KKD), the Presidential Special Envoy to the Caribbean Region, has broken his silence on rumors surrounding his son, Kweku, by affirming his support for his son's gender identity. Speaking during a widely followed interview with Bola Ray on Starr FM, the seasoned broadcaster and diplomat directly addressed public speculation with a defiant "So what?", challenging the narrative that his son's personal life should be a matter of public debate or parental shame. This public acknowledgment marks a significant moment for the high-ranking official currently serving under President John Mahama’s administration. During the conversation, KKD emphasized that his son’s identity as a transgender man does not alter his fundamental duties or affection as a father. He made it clear that a person’s gender identity is a private aspect of their life that should not detract from their character or their family’s bond. By taking a firm stand on the issue, Darkwah aimed to protect his family from the invasive nature of social media rumors while simultaneously modeling a standard of parental acceptance. He stressed that his primary focus remains on his family's well-being and his professional service to Ghana, rather than the opinions of external critics. The interview has sparked significant conversation across Ghanaian media, highlighting the intersection between traditional societal expectations and the personal lives of high-profile public figures. As the Presidential Special Envoy to the Caribbean, KKD’s role involves representing the interests of the Republic abroad, a task he insists remains entirely separate from his private family dynamics. By addressing the situation head-on, he has moved to close a chapter of speculation, prioritizing his role as a supportive parent while continuing his diplomatic work on behalf of the state.

GACL Crackdown: Immigration and Port Health Officers Sanctioned for Extortion at Accra International Airport
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GACL Crackdown: Immigration and Port Health Officers Sanctioned for Extortion at Accra International Airport

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has announced decisive disciplinary actions against several airport personnel following allegations of extortion and unprofessional conduct at the Accra International Airport. In a statement released on August 6, 2026, the GACL confirmed the transfer of a Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) officer and the barring of two Port Health officials. These measures come as the airport authority intensifies its efforts to eliminate corruption and improve the experience of travelers passing through Ghana’s premier aviation hub. The GIS officer, a female staff member, was reassigned from her post after a video surfaced showing her soliciting a "token for breakfast" from a passenger. The recording, which circulated widely, prompted an immediate investigation into the breach of professional ethics. GACL emphasized that such behavior undermines the integrity of the service and the nation's reputation. While the officer has been transferred away from the airport environment, the move signals a low threshold for misconduct among frontline staff who interact with international visitors. In a separate but related development, two Port Health officers have been barred from working at the airport after they were caught extorting money from a foreign traveler on August 5, 2026. The officers reportedly charged the passenger $40 for a Yellow Fever Card, double the approved official fee of $20. Following a swift verification of the incident, their airport identification cards were deactivated, effectively ending their deployment at the facility. This action reinforces the GACL's commitment to ensuring that all statutory fees are transparently managed and that personnel do not exploit unsuspecting travelers. To prevent future occurrences, the GACL has introduced a dedicated hotline for travelers to report incidents of harassment or extortion in real-time. The company stated that all personnel at the airport are now under heightened surveillance to ensure compliance with professional standards. This anti-corruption drive aligns with the broader transparency goals of the current administration under President John Mahama. The GACL has urged the traveling public to remain vigilant and use the established channels to report any staff member who makes inappropriate demands, underscoring a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption.

Kano State Celebrates Mass Wedding of 1,500 Couples to Support Low-Income Families
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Kano State Celebrates Mass Wedding of 1,500 Couples to Support Low-Income Families

Kano State, Nigeria, has recently been the site of a monumental social event as the regional government officiated a mass wedding for 1,500 couples. This two-day initiative was specifically designed as a strategic intervention to assist low-income families who often struggle with the significant financial demands of traditional marriage ceremonies. By pooling resources and providing state sponsorship, officials aimed to alleviate the economic burden on young couples while fostering stronger communal bonds within the northern Nigerian state. The celebrations transformed the streets of Kano into a vibrant display of culture and joy, with the city coming alive for over a week of festivities. Bridal parties and families engaged in extensive preparations, filling the public squares with the energy of thousands of participants. The formal officiating process took place over a focused two-day period, during which government officials and local leaders oversaw the unions. This large-scale coordination required significant logistical planning to ensure that each of the 3,000 individuals entering into marriage was properly documented and supported throughout the organized events. Beyond the immediate joy of the unions, the Kano State government emphasized the initiative’s broader role in promoting social stability. By facilitating these marriages, the state seeks to provide a more structured family environment and reduce the social pressures that can lead to instability in the region. While the event has been largely hailed as a success, it has also sparked discussions regarding the importance of vetting participants to prevent exploitation by fraudsters or the occurrence of fake romances. Nevertheless, the mass wedding remains a significant gesture of social welfare, addressing the reality that economic pressures often delay or prevent formal marital commitments for many citizens.

Reuters Smoke rises from the Bald Range wildfire over a residential street in Summerland
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Massive Bald Range Wildfire Forces Thousands to Evacuate in British Columbia as Flames Double in Size

Thousands of residents in western Canada have been forced to flee their homes as the "out of control" Bald Range wildfire continues to spread rapidly across British Columbia. Since its detection on Friday, the blaze has doubled in size, now scorching over 36 square miles within the Summerland and Okanagan-Similkameen districts. Emergency officials have described the fire as one of the most aggressive and fast-moving incidents recorded in the region's history, prompting immediate evacuation orders for approximately 12,000 residents in the town of Summerland alone. The sudden escalation of the fire has created significant logistical challenges for both residents and emergency services. In addition to residential neighborhoods, several care facilities have been relocated to ensure the safety of vulnerable citizens. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the BC Wildfire Service are working around the clock to coordinate the movement of people while managing widespread power outages caused by the fire's progression. Beyond the immediate threat to human life, many displaced residents have expressed deep concern for pets and livestock that were forced to be left behind in the haste of the evacuation. This specific blaze is part of a much larger environmental crisis, with numerous wildfires burning across Canada this summer. The impact has transcended borders, as thick smoke from these fires continues to severely degrade air quality not only across various Canadian provinces but also in several parts of the United States. As the Bald Range fire remains uncontained, authorities are monitoring neighboring districts for potential further evacuations while firefighting crews focus on protecting critical infrastructure and establishing containment lines in the high-risk Okanagan territory.

ECG announces four-day power outage schedule for parts of Accra East
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Electricity Company of Ghana Announces Scheduled 4-Day Maintenance Outages Across Accra East Region

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has officially announced a scheduled four-day maintenance exercise across the Accra East Region, resulting in planned power outages from August 10 to August 13. These daily interruptions, which are slated to occur from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, are part of the utility company’s routine efforts to improve electricity service delivery and ensure long-term grid stability. The maintenance work is essential for upgrading infrastructure and enhancing the reliability of the power supply for thousands of residents and businesses in the affected areas. The outage schedule is divided by zones to minimize widespread disruption. On the first day, Saturday, August 10, power will be interrupted in Teiman, Oyarifa, the Mr. Smith area, and parts of Ogbodjo, as well as critical locations including the Tsmasiwaa Hospital and the Ability area. On Sunday, August 11, the maintenance will shift to Ashiyie, parts of Dodowa, Tobinco, Oasis Estate, and the Manet Junction vicinity. Customers in these locations are encouraged to plan accordingly for the eight-hour daily window of downtime. As the maintenance program moves into its second half, Monday, August 12, will see interruptions in parts of Labone, Agbogba Zongo, the Adenta SDA community, and the Tot-to-teen School, as well as significant portions of Madina. The exercise is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, August 13, with a final round of maintenance focusing on the Achimota School area. The ECG has expressed its commitment to adhering to the published timeline to ensure minimal inconvenience to the public. ECG management has advised customers in the Accra East Region to prepare for these temporary power interruptions by protecting sensitive electronic equipment and adjusting their schedules. While the company regrets the inconvenience caused by these outages, it maintains that these upgrades are vital for providing the high-quality electrical services expected by the Ghanaian public. Power is expected to be fully restored each evening by 5:00 pm upon the completion of the daily technical tasks.