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.

ECG Announces Extensive Power Disruptions in Greater Accra, Volta, and Oti Regions Due to Maintenance and Technical Faults
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ECG Announces Extensive Power Disruptions in Greater Accra, Volta, and Oti Regions Due to Maintenance and Technical Faults

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has notified customers across several regions of upcoming power disruptions resulting from a combination of scheduled maintenance and emergency technical challenges. Residents in the Greater Accra, Volta, and Oti regions are expected to experience outages beginning Sunday, August 2, as the utility provider works to stabilize the national grid and upgrade local infrastructure. These disruptions come at a time of heightened global attention on energy security following reports of a total national grid collapse in Cuba late Sunday. In the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area, the ECG has scheduled maintenance exercises for Monday, August 3, affecting the Tema, Accra West, and Accra East regions. In the Tema Region, outages are expected between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, impacting Communities 19, 20, 22 (TDC Estates), and 24. Meanwhile, the Accra West and Accra East regions will face disruptions from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Impacted neighborhoods include Doblo, Bangalow, Hebron, and significant parts of the capital’s eastern corridor, such as East Legon, Okponglo, and Frafraha. Customers in these areas are advised to make necessary alternative arrangements for the duration of the works. Simultaneously, a temporary load management exercise has been initiated for the Volta and Oti regions due to a significant technical failure. According to ECG and GRIDCo, a transformer fault occurred at the Asiekpe Bulk Supply Point (BSP), necessitating a phased power rationing plan to maintain system stability. The first phase of this exercise ran from the evening of August 2 through the morning of August 3, affecting areas including Ho Technical University and Abutia. A second phase is scheduled from 6:00 PM on August 3 to 6:00 AM on August 4, which will impact the Ho Central Market, Kpenoe, and surrounding enclaves. ECG officials, led by Public Relations Officer Eunice Tweneboah-Kodua, have expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by these interruptions. The company emphasized that while the maintenance in Accra is proactive, the load management in the Volta and Oti regions is a reactive measure to ensure that the fault at the Asiekpe BSP does not lead to a wider system failure. Engineers are reportedly on-site working to rectify the transformer issue and restore normal service as quickly as possible. These domestic utility challenges reflect a broader trend of infrastructure vulnerability seen internationally, as state-owned utilities globally face increasing pressure to maintain aging power systems.

Clara Mlano Launches Akuse Prison Reformation Project to Transform Inmate Welfare
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Clara Mlano Launches Akuse Prison Reformation Project to Transform Inmate Welfare

Broadcaster and journalist Clara Mlano marked her birthday on July 7, 2026, by commissioning the Akuse Prison Reformation Project at the Akuse Local Prison. This humanitarian initiative marks a significant milestone in improving the living conditions and overall welfare of the facility's inmates. Born out of a desire to create a lasting legacy and inspired by her personal commitment to service, the project has already addressed approximately 90% of the prison's identified needs through comprehensive facility upgrades and resource provision. The intervention featured the renovation of prison cells and the donation of essential agricultural equipment to support the prison's farming programs, which are vital for vocational training and food security. Beyond infrastructural changes, Mlano emphasized the human aspect of reform by sharing a meal with the inmates—an act intended to promote inclusion and remind them of their inherent value to society. The inspiration for this project traces back to 2025, when Mlano was honored by the Konor and the Krobo people. Following this recognition and subsequent spiritual reflection, she embarked on this mission to restore dignity to those within the correctional system. Looking ahead, the Akuse Prison Reformation Project aims to provide a more conducive environment for rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society. While the current phase has significantly improved the facility, plans are already underway for the construction of a prison clinic to complete the project. This final addition is expected to ensure that the medical needs of the inmates are prioritized alongside their living conditions, reinforcing the message that the incarcerated remain valued members of the community despite their circumstances.

Accident on Birimso bridge causes blockade on Accra-Kumasi N6 highway; 7 injured
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Two Dead as STC Bus and Fuel Tanker Ignite in Fiery Multi-Vehicle Crash on Accra-Kumasi Highway

A catastrophic multi-vehicle collision on the Accra-Kumasi (N6) Highway at the Birimso Bridge near Bunso Junction has left two people dead and several others injured. The accident, which occurred on Monday, August 3, 2026, involved a State Transport Company (STC) passenger bus, two fuel tankers, a Mitsubishi pick-up, and a Kia Sorento. The impact triggered a massive inferno that gutted several of the vehicles, causing a complete standstill on one of Ghana's busiest arterial roads. According to eyewitness accounts and reports from the Ghana National Fire Service, the collision was so severe that the STC bus and one of the fuel tankers were immediately engulfed in flames. A second fuel tanker was forced off the road, plunging into a nearby river where it also ignited. While the STC bus, the primary fuel tanker, and the Mitsubishi pick-up were completely destroyed by the fire, the Kia Sorento sustained significant damage but remained partially intact. Emergency responders from the Bunso and Suhum fire stations worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent further explosions from the high-occupancy vehicles. Health authorities and emergency services have confirmed that two individuals died at the scene due to the intensity of the fire. At least seven others—identified as five males and two females—suffered various degrees of injury. The survivors were rushed to the Hawa Memorial Hospital in Osiem for urgent medical attention. As of the latest update, rescue operations were still underway to ensure no other victims remained trapped in the charred wreckage, and hospital officials are monitoring the condition of the injured closely. The incident caused a total blockade of the N6 Highway, leading to massive traffic congestion in both directions. The Eastern South Regional Police Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate (MTTD) implemented emergency diversions, redirecting Accra-bound commuters at Nsutam and Kumasi-bound motorists at Apedwa. While the police and fire services work to clear the debris and restore the flow of traffic, an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the collision. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and cooperate with authorities during the recovery phase.

AMA Sanctions Vendors and Elubo Building Demolished as Social Incidents Spark National Conversation
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AMA Sanctions Vendors and Elubo Building Demolished as Social Incidents Spark National Conversation

In a push for stricter adherence to urban regulations, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued fines to several food vendors at Rawlings Park for defying National Sanitation Day directives. Each vendor was penalized GH¢1,000 after failing to suspend operations during the scheduled clean-up exercise. According to the AMA, these measures are essential to foster a culture of hygiene and ensure that community members prioritize public health over commercial activities. The assembly warned that these sanctions serve as a deterrent, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to future violations of sanitation protocols. This commitment to urban order is mirrored in the Western Region, where a near-completed multi-storey building in Elubo was recently demolished. The structure, notable for its stone cladding and decorative window grilles, was brought down by excavators to facilitate the expansion of the local road network. The move underscores the necessity of infrastructure development in growing urban centers, even when it involves the removal of significant private construction projects. Beyond institutional enforcement, the Ghanaian public has been transfixed by a series of unusual social occurrences that highlight community life and personal accountability. In a viral video that has sparked significant conversation, a suspected thief was captured being spoon-fed jollof rice by onlookers after he was apprehended for an alleged theft. Dressed in a blue football jersey and seated on a plastic crate, the man was seen receiving the meal and water in a scene that contrasted sharply with typical reports of mob justice. Meanwhile, in the Ashanti Region, the community of Wassa Moseaaso was drawn into a private drama after a woman, identified as Akosua Mother, appeared on television to publicly confess to infidelity. Having married Twumasi Kwame in 2021, she sought forgiveness for an affair with an ex-partner that occurred during the marriage. These events collectively reflect a landscape of evolving social dynamics and rigorous regulatory enforcement across Ghana. From the streets of Accra to the border town of Elubo, the emphasis on law, order, and personal accountability remains a central theme. As authorities continue to push for better sanitation and infrastructure, the public's interaction with these rules and each other continues to shape the national discourse.

Funeral Arrangements Announced for Elder Richard Kweku Bedu Hudson Following His Transition at Age 84
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Funeral Arrangements Announced for Elder Richard Kweku Bedu Hudson Following His Transition at Age 84

The Agona Swedru Owane Twidan Family, in conjunction with the Seventh-day Adventist community, has formally announced the passing and upcoming funeral arrangements for Elder Richard Kweku Bedu Hudson. Passing away at the age of 84, Elder Hudson leaves behind a legacy of faith and family devotion that spanned over eight decades. His transition marks a significant moment for the Labone SDA Church and the wider Agona Swedru community, where his influence and presence were deeply felt by relatives and congregants alike. The final rites for the late Elder are scheduled to take place in August 2026, beginning with a solemn ceremony on Sunday, August 9. The program will include a laying in state, allowing friends and sympathizers to pay their last respects, followed by a burial service at the Labone SDA Church in Accra. These proceedings will conclude with final funeral rites on the same day. In keeping with Ghanaian tradition for the celebration of an elderly person's life, the family has requested that all attendees dress in black and white attire, symbolizing a mixture of mourning and the celebration of a life well-lived. Following the burial, the family will gather once more for a Thanksgiving service on Saturday, August 15, 2026. This service is intended to offer gratitude to God for the life of Elder Hudson and the support received during the period of mourning. The widow, Juliana Helena Assan, alongside the children and the extended Owane Twidan Family, has expressed their deep appreciation for the outpouring of love from the public. They continue to invite friends, colleagues, and all sympathizers to join them as they honor the memory of a patriarch who was a pillar of strength to his household and his church.

Accident: Two dead, eight injured in Komenda highway crash
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Two Dead and Eight Injured in Fatal Collision on Cape Coast-Takoradi Highway at Dompoase

A tragic road accident on the Cape Coast-Takoradi highway at Dompoase has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left eight others with varying degrees of injury. The incident occurred when a Toyota Hiace passenger vehicle collided with a broken-down truck. Preliminary reports indicate that the driver of the Hiace was attempting to avoid another vehicle that was overtaking at the time, leading to the fatal impact with the stationary heavy-duty truck. Emergency response teams, including personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service and the National Ambulance Service, arrived promptly at the scene to manage the situation and rescue trapped passengers. Despite their swift efforts, one victim was pronounced dead on-site. A second victim succumbed to their injuries shortly after being extricated from the wreckage of the Toyota Hiace. The intensity of the crash required specialized equipment to remove those trapped within the mangled vehicle. The eight survivors were immediately transported to the Elmina Polyclinic for emergency medical treatment. Medical staff have reported that three of the injured individuals are currently in critical condition, while the remaining five are being monitored for non-life-threatening injuries. Local authorities have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, focusing on the lack of warning signs around the broken-down truck and the reckless overtaking maneuver that triggered the sequence of events. This latest tragedy adds to the growing concerns regarding road safety on Ghana’s major transit corridors, particularly the Cape Coast-Takoradi stretch. It highlights the persistent danger posed by stationary, disabled vehicles on high-speed highways and the need for stricter enforcement of road hazard regulations. Motorists are once again urged to exercise caution, maintain safe speeds, and ensure that disabled vehicles are properly marked and removed from the roadway to prevent such avoidable loss of life.

Police arrest two over viral video of 12-year-old driving articulated truck
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Ghana Police Service Outlines Multi-Year Recruitment Plan and Enforces Road Safety Laws

The Ghana Police Service (GPS) is currently managing a dual focus on expanding its workforce and strictly enforcing road traffic regulations to ensure national safety. In a significant administrative update, the Service announced that the recruitment exercise for the 2025/2026 cycle will proceed in strategic batches, with the process expected to continue until 2028. This phased approach is designed to ensure thorough vetting and professional integration of new officers into the force during President John Mahama’s current administration. Addressing the thousands of hopeful applicants, the Police administration issued a statement of assurance regarding the ongoing recruitment process. Applicants who are yet to receive invitations for the validation of their documents are urged to remain patient as the process is ongoing. The Service confirmed that successful candidates are being called to designated centers in scheduled groups to facilitate an orderly verification process, highlighting a commitment to transparency and systematic growth within the national security apparatus. Parallel to these administrative efforts, the Police Service has remained active in addressing public safety violations that emerge through digital platforms. This was recently highlighted by the arrest of a 34-year-old man and a 12-year-old boy following the circulation of a viral video. The footage showed the minor at the steering wheel of a DAF XF 105 articulated truck, a heavy-duty vehicle, sparking widespread concern over the disregard for road safety protocols and the legal age requirements for drivers. Following the arrests, the Police Service reminded the general public, specifically vehicle owners and parents, of the grave dangers associated with allowing unlicensed individuals to operate machinery on public roads. Such acts are not only illegal under the Road Traffic Act but also endanger the lives of all road users. The Service continues to encourage citizens to report similar incidents, emphasizing that public cooperation is vital for maintaining law and order on Ghana’s highways while the Service works to expand its personnel capacity over the coming years.

Electricity Company of Ghana Announces Scheduled Power Outages for Airport Area and East Legon
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Electricity Company of Ghana Announces Scheduled Power Outages for Airport Area and East Legon

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has notified residents and businesses in parts of Accra of scheduled power interruptions beginning Sunday, August 2, 2026. These planned outages are necessary to facilitate essential maintenance works aimed at enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the power distribution network. The exercise is expected to affect various high-profile neighborhoods, including the Airport area and East Legon, as the utility provider seeks to improve service delivery across the capital. On Sunday, August 2, customers in the Airport area and neighboring communities will experience a five-hour interruption in supply, starting from 9:00 a.m. and concluding at 2:00 p.m. According to official statements from the company, this specific window has been allocated for technical teams to carry out improvements on the local infrastructure. ECG emphasized that these maintenance activities are part of a broader commitment to ensure a more robust electricity supply for both residential and commercial users in the bustling Airport enclave. The maintenance schedule extends into the following day, Monday, August 3, with a more prolonged outage planned for parts of Accra East. Residents in East Legon, Okponglo, and surrounding areas are advised to prepare for an eight-hour power cut between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. This phase of the maintenance exercise addresses critical components of the grid in some of Accra's most densely populated residential and business hubs, reflecting the ongoing efforts to minimize unannounced outages through proactive system upgrades. Expressing regret for the unavoidable disruption to daily routines and economic activities, the ECG has apologized for any inconvenience these works may cause. The company has urged affected customers to exercise patience as technical crews work to complete the maintenance within the stipulated timeframes. These improvements align with the current energy sector objectives under President John Mahama, focusing on modernizing the national grid and ensuring that electricity supply keeps pace with the growing demands of Ghana’s urban centers.

Sri Lanka Intensifies Prison Security Following Fatal Riot at Overcrowded Mahara Facility
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Sri Lanka Intensifies Prison Security Following Fatal Riot at Overcrowded Mahara Facility

Sri Lankan authorities have significantly bolstered security across the nation's correctional facilities following a deadly riot at the Mahara prison. The unrest, which resulted in the death of one inmate and left six others injured, has once again brought the issue of prison overcrowding and safety into the national spotlight. In the immediate aftermath of the violence, law enforcement and military personnel were deployed to restore order, and a temporary police curfew was enforced in surrounding communities to ensure public safety and prevent further escalation. The disturbance reportedly erupted during family visiting hours, a period intended for inmate-family reconnection that instead turned chaotic. Inmates caused extensive damage to the facility's infrastructure and intentionally set fires that disrupted prison operations. This latest incident is part of a troubling pattern of volatility within the Mahara facility, which currently houses approximately 4,100 inmates. This population figure is staggering when compared to the facility's intended design capacity, representing a fourfold overextension that creates a volatile environment for both staff and detainees. This riot is not an isolated event but rather a symptom of a systemic crisis within Sri Lanka’s penal system. The country’s prisons are currently struggling to manage a total of over 41,000 inmates, far exceeding the total infrastructure's capabilities. This overcrowding has previously led to lethal outcomes; notably, violent clashes in July resulted in multiple fatalities and necessitated direct military intervention to quell the uprisings. The recurring nature of these events highlights the persistent tension and dangerous conditions inherent in the current state of the nation's prisons. While the police curfew in the areas neighboring Mahara has since been lifted, the government remains on high alert. The intensification of security measures, including the integration of police and military support, aims to provide a buffer against future unrest as the state grapples with the long-term challenge of prison reform. Moving forward, authorities are faced with the urgent task of addressing the root causes of this violence—chiefly the severe overcrowding and lack of resources—to prevent further tragedies within the correctional system.

Becky’s Mother Attributes 21-Year-Old’s Death to Alleged Curse Linked to Leaked Workplace Video
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Becky’s Mother Attributes 21-Year-Old’s Death to Alleged Curse Linked to Leaked Workplace Video

The sudden death of a 21-year-old woman, identified as Becky, has left her family and community in a state of shock, as disturbing details emerge regarding the possible circumstances behind her passing. In a series of emotional revelations, Becky’s mother has publicly shared her conviction that her daughter’s life was cut short due to a spiritual curse. This claim follows an incident at Becky’s workplace, where the young woman reportedly became entangled in a controversy involving the unauthorized distribution of private, intimate media. The sequence of events leading to this tragedy allegedly began when an intimate video belonging to one of Becky’s colleagues was leaked. According to her mother’s account, Becky was among those who viewed the video on a coworker’s phone and was subsequently involved in discussions about it with her peers. This breach of privacy and the resulting workplace gossip supposedly drew the ire of an individual associated with the video, leading to the alleged invocation of a curse against the 21-year-old. The mother’s narrative suggests that the spiritual repercussion was a direct response to Becky’s role in the circulation or discussion of the sensitive footage. This tragic situation brings to light the intersection of modern digital challenges and traditional belief systems. In many contemporary settings, the leak of intimate content is treated as a severe violation of privacy and workplace policy; however, in this instance, the family perceives the consequences as transcending physical or legal boundaries. The story has resonated deeply, prompting discussions about the ethics of privacy, the dangers of workplace gossip, and the heavy emotional toll such incidents take on young employees. As the family grapples with their loss, the case remains a stark illustration of how personal disputes in the digital age can spiral into devastating outcomes.

Fatal Helicopter Collision and Wildfires Ravage Greece as UK Crews Secure Nuclear Plant Site
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Fatal Helicopter Collision and Wildfires Ravage Greece as UK Crews Secure Nuclear Plant Site

Firefighting efforts across Europe reached a critical point this week as multiple nations battled devastating wildfires exacerbated by extreme heat and drought. In Greece, the crisis turned fatal when two helicopters collided mid-air while combating a large blaze, claiming two lives. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, emergency crews have managed to stabilize a significant wildfire burning near the Sizewell B nuclear power station in Suffolk. While conditions have begun to improve in parts of France and Spain, the broader Mediterranean region remains on high alert as fire crews face "titanic" challenges fueled by climate change. The most tragic development occurred approximately 65 kilometers west of Athens, where two Bell helicopters collided while attempting to contain a fire on the Attica-Boeotia border. The accident resulted in the deaths of a Danish pilot and a Greek fire service liaison officer after one helicopter's rotor struck the other, sending both into a ravine. A British pilot and another Greek coordinator miraculously survived the crash with minor injuries. In the wake of the tragedy, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his deep condolences, and all Bell helicopters in the country have been grounded pending an investigation. The incident underscores the extreme risks faced by the over 500 firefighters currently deployed across Greece, including on the island of Crete, where strong winds have forced further evacuations. In the United Kingdom, more than 100 firefighters and specialized aircraft have spent three days battling a 150-hectare wildfire at Dunwich Heath, situated near the Sizewell B nuclear power station. Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service reported that the situation is finally stabilizing, though it remains dynamic. Despite the proximity of the flames, authorities and plant operators at EDF confirmed that the nuclear facility was never at risk and operations remained unaffected. Approximately 50 residents were evacuated from nearby homes, and while power has been restored to most properties, officials warned that the region’s extreme dry spell—having received only 2% of its average July rainfall—continues to pose a significant fire risk. Across the Aegean, Turkish authorities have mobilized over 3,500 personnel to manage 169 reported fires, most of which are now under control. However, the human toll remains high, with three firefighters confirmed dead in recent operations across the region. In Western Europe, there are signs of relief; the French government reported that 144,000 of the 224,000 people previously evacuated have been able to return home as fire fronts stabilize. Spain has similarly lowered its national emergency level as containment efforts progress, though the Interior Ministry has urged residents to remain cautious as high temperatures persist. The current wave of wildfires across the continent highlights the escalating impact of climate change, with officials pointing to a combination of mild winters and prolonged summer heatwaves as the primary drivers of the crisis. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the situation as overwhelming, reflecting a sentiment shared by leaders across the region. As emergency services continue to monitor hotspots and manage the recovery of evacuated communities, the focus remains on long-term prevention and the strengthening of international cooperation to address the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in Europe.

China Landslide Death Toll Rises to 51 as International Tragedies Strike Pakistan and Indonesia
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China Landslide Death Toll Rises to 51 as International Tragedies Strike Pakistan and Indonesia

The death toll from a devastating landslide in southwestern China has risen to 51, with at least ten people still missing following a catastrophic soil collapse in Chongqing. The disaster, which occurred in Pengshui County, was triggered by relentless heavy rainfall that caused boulders and earth to bury more than ten residential buildings. While land-based search and rescue operations have officially concluded, emergency teams continue to scour the Wujiang River in hopes of locating the remaining victims. Such events are increasingly common during China's summer rainy season, which frequently brings deadly floods and geohazards to the region. In a separate tragedy in Pakistan, at least 14 people were killed in a suspected suicide bombing outside a police station in the Kabal area of the Swat district. The casualties include five police officers and eight civilians, with 18 others sustaining various degrees of injury. The explosion occurred during a pro-police rally, though investigators have yet to confirm if the demonstrators were the primary target. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, as authorities launched operations to apprehend those who aided the attack. The Pakistani government has linked the recent surge in regional militancy to support from the Afghan Taliban, though officials in Kabul continue to deny these allegations. Maritime safety has also come under scrutiny following a fatal fire aboard the KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry in Indonesia. The vessel, which was transporting at least 250 passengers from Surabaya to Makassar, caught fire off the coast of Madura Island. The incident resulted in five confirmed deaths, while 41 individuals remain missing. Distress signals were sent early in the morning as the blaze rapidly enveloped the ship, forcing many passengers to jump into the sea or crowd onto the bow and bridge to await rescue. Nearby boats assisted in the recovery of survivors, many of whom were seen in life jackets in harrowing videos captured at the scene. These disparate tragedies across Asia highlight a period of significant human loss attributed to both natural disasters and security failures. From the seasonal climate vulnerabilities in China to the volatile security landscape in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the reported incidents underscore the urgent need for improved disaster response and counter-terrorism measures. As families await word on the dozens still missing in both the Chongqing landslide and the Madura Island ferry fire, local authorities are facing mounting pressure to enhance safety protocols and mitigate the impact of such recurring crises.