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.

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Electricity Company of Ghana Announces Multi-Region Maintenance Schedule Through July 28

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a series of scheduled emergency and planned maintenance activities across five regions, spanning from Sunday, July 26, through Tuesday, July 28, 2025. These exercises are designed to improve service delivery and ensure the long-term reliability of the power distribution network. The maintenance schedule impacts various communities within the Accra East, Accra West, Ashanti, Central, and Tema regions, with most outages occurring during peak daylight hours. In the Greater Accra area, the maintenance program began with emergency works in the Accra East Region on Sunday, July 26, affecting localities such as Can West, Robinhood Hotel, Melcom Shopping Mall, and Interplast. On Monday, July 27, the focus shifted to areas including La Trust, Tseaddo, Frafraha Pharmacy, and La Palmwine Junction. Simultaneously, the Accra West Region saw planned maintenance affecting a wide range of communities, including Doblo, Sapeiman, Medie, and Kotoku on Sunday, followed by Bechem, Tunga, and the Dansoman Market area on Monday. The maintenance operations will reach their peak on Tuesday, July 28, with a significant expansion into other regions. The Ashanti Region will experience extensive outages affecting numerous communities from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. In the Central Region, maintenance is scheduled between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, while the Tema Region will see localized outages from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Accra East and West will also continue to see targeted maintenance on Tuesday to finalize infrastructure upgrades. ECG has issued a formal apology to the public for the inevitable inconvenience caused by these essential works. Management has advised all affected residents and businesses to make necessary alternative arrangements for the duration of the outages. The company reiterated its commitment to completing the technical exercises within the announced timelines to restore power promptly and enhance the overall efficiency of the national grid under the current administration.

Agona Swedru: Robbers shoot mobile money agent during Sunday night attack
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Violent Armed Robbery Spree in Agona East Leaves Mobile Money Agents Shot and Motorists Robbed

A series of violent armed robberies on Sunday evening, July 26, across the Agona East District of the Central Region has left several people injured and sparked widespread fear among residents. The coordinated attacks, reportedly carried out by a six-member gang, targeted mobile money vendors in Mankrong Nkwanta and Agona Swedru before culminating in a highway roadblock where motorists were robbed at gunpoint. The brazen nature of the attacks, which occurred during the early evening hours, has led to urgent demands for a heightened security presence in the region. In Mankrong Nkwanta, the gunmen opened fire indiscriminately around 7:00 p.m., targeting operators near a local filling station and causing residents to flee for safety. During the rampage, one mobile money vendor was shot from a distance, while another man was shot in the leg inside his own home. Simultaneously, in Agona Swedru, 32-year-old mobile money agent Eric Barns was shot in the stomach at his shop. Barns was initially treated at the Agona Swedru Municipal Hospital but was later transferred to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for specialist care due to the severity of his injuries. Following the initial attacks, the suspects successfully evaded local police and moved to the Mankrong Nkwanta–Bawjiase Highway, where they mounted a roadblock. The gang intercepted multiple vehicles, robbing passengers of an undisclosed amount of cash and personal valuables. Eyewitnesses reported that staff at a nearby filling station narrowly escaped the gang by fleeing just as the gunmen approached. While the Ghana Police Service responded to distress calls, the perpetrators managed to escape the scene before they could be apprehended. The surge in violence has prompted an outcry from local residents and mobile money operators who feel increasingly vulnerable to targeted attacks. Community members have expressed frustration over the perceived inadequacy of police resources, calling for the Ghana Police Service to provide better equipment and more personnel to the local stations. Authorities are currently investigating the incidents and have appealed to the public to come forward with any information that could assist in identifying and capturing the six-member gang responsible for the crime spree.

The convict
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Upper West Courts Sentence Two Men for Sexual Abuse: Lawra Father Jailed 20 Years for Incest

The Lawra Circuit Court has sentenced 47-year-old Kwame Ti-Zaarkuu to 20 years in prison with hard labour for incest and threatening the life of his 17-year-old daughter. Presiding over the case on July 24, 2026, His Honour Stanley Adjei handed down the sentence after a full trial established that the convict had sexually abused his daughter, a Junior High School student, over a prolonged period. The court further convicted Ti-Zaarkuu for threatening to kill his daughter if she disclosed the abuse, resulting in a 10-year sentence to be served concurrently with the primary 20-year term. The prosecution's case highlighted a disturbing pattern of systematic abuse and intimidation. Investigations by the Upper West Regional Police Command revealed that Ti-Zaarkuu exploited his parental role to silence his daughter, causing her significant psychological trauma. In his ruling, Justice Adjei emphasized the severity of the betrayal of trust and mandated the Department of Social Welfare in Lawra to provide immediate counselling and comprehensive support for the survivor. The police have since been commended for their professional handling of the investigation, which was initiated after a formal complaint was lodged against the convict. In a related development demonstrating the judiciary's firm stance on child protection in the region, the Wa High Court also sentenced a 42-year-old man to a decade in prison. Elyasu Kunateh was found guilty on July 23, 2026, of defiling a seven-year-old boy in Wa. Presided over by Justice Osei-Wusu Antwi, the conviction followed a report from the victim's mother and a subsequent investigation by the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Upper West Regional Police Command. This ruling reinforces the ongoing judicial efforts to curb sexual violence against minors across the regional capital and surrounding districts. These convictions have drawn praise from the Upper West Regional Police Command, which has reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice for victims of sexual and domestic abuse. Law enforcement officials stressed the importance of public vigilance, urging citizens to report suspected cases of abuse promptly to the authorities. By ensuring that offenders like Ti-Zaarkuu and Kunateh face the full rigors of the law, the regional courts and police aim to create a safer environment for children and vulnerable individuals, signaling that such heinous crimes will not be tolerated in Ghanaian society.

Suspected gold ore thieves granted bail
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President Mahama and IGP Urged to Honor Brave Citizen Amidst Latest Judicial Rulings and Social Reports

In a series of significant developments across Ghana’s judicial and civic landscape, calls have intensified for President John Mahama and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to officially recognize the exceptional bravery of a Tema resident. Mr. Ebenezer, who pursued and helped apprehend a member of a suspected robbery gang near the Tema Harbour, has become a symbol of civic responsibility. During the incident, Ebenezer used his personal vehicle, a BMW, to chase the suspects through heavy traffic, eventually forcing their car into a gutter and assisting in the capture of one individual. Supporters of the move argue that such public recognition is essential as the nation seeks to bolster community-led efforts against rising crime rates. While the public celebrates heroic acts, the Ghanaian courts remain active in addressing various criminal activities ranging from petty theft to resource-related crimes. At the Asante Abuakwa Circuit Court, 19-year-old Bright Oduro was sentenced to six months in prison after pleading guilty to charges of unlawful entry, damage to property, and attempted theft at a private residence. Meanwhile, in a separate case involving high-value assets, two men, Robert Mensah and Paul Udeze, were granted bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 each. The duo is accused of conspiracy and theft involving eight sacks of gold ore from Asanko Gold Mining Limited, a charge they have denied following their arrest by security personnel at the mining site. Amidst these reports of crime and legal proceedings, a Catholic priest, Reverend Father Emmanuel Effah Adjei, has provided a different perspective on service and sacrifice in modern Ghana. Discussing the modest financial realities of the priesthood, Father Adjei revealed that he receives a monthly allowance of only GH¢500. He emphasized that the religious calling prioritizes spiritual fulfillment and communal sacrifice over monetary compensation, a sentiment that resonates with the broader call for selflessness seen in the actions of citizens like Mr. Ebenezer. Together, these stories reflect a nation grappling with security challenges while maintaining a strong foundation of individual discipline and institutional justice.

Sheela Sakyi Oppong (right) presenting the items to Dr Margaret Neizer (middle)
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Rebecca Foundation Provides Essential Food Support to Korle-Bu Cancer Hostel and Princess Marie Louise Children's Hospital

The Rebecca Foundation, led by former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has presented a significant donation of essential food items and supplies to the Rebecca Akufo-Addo Ghana Parents Childhood Cancer Association’s Sunshine House and the Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital in Accra. This gesture is part of the foundation's ongoing commitment to improving maternal and child health across the country, specifically targeting vulnerable children undergoing intensive medical treatment and their families. The donation, which included large quantities of staples such as rice and cooking oil, aims to alleviate the daily pressures faced by guardians while their children receive specialized care for life-threatening conditions. At the Sunshine House, which serves as a hostel for children receiving cancer treatment at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, the contribution is expected to provide vital nutritional support. For many families traveling from outside the capital, the cost of nutrition during long-term treatment can be prohibitive. By providing these essential items, the Rebecca Foundation ensures that the focus remains on the children’s recovery. Similarly, the donation to the Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital—popularly known as the Children's Hospital in Accra—will assist the facility in managing its dietary requirements for young patients, particularly those battling malnutrition alongside other ailments. Officials from both the children's hospital and the cancer hostel expressed profound gratitude for the foundation's intervention, describing the support as vital for the maintenance of their care services. They highlighted that consistent donations from the foundation have historically played a crucial role in the survival and well-being of their patients. The food supplies are not merely provisions but are integral to the clinical outcomes of the children, as proper nutrition is a cornerstone of recovery from intensive medical procedures like chemotherapy. This latest philanthropic activity underscores the continued mission of Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo to advocate for the health and welfare of Ghanaian women and children. Through the Rebecca Foundation, she continues to partner with healthcare institutions to address resource gaps and improve the lives of the most vulnerable. This donation serves as a reminder of the importance of private-public partnerships in sustaining the nation’s healthcare infrastructure and providing a safety net for families in crisis.

Berekum Mourns as Popular Broadcaster Justice Bernard Danquah "99K" Dies in Road Accident
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Berekum Mourns as Popular Broadcaster Justice Bernard Danquah "99K" Dies in Road Accident

The Berekum Municipality and the wider Bono Region are in a state of mourning following the tragic and sudden death of renowned broadcast personality Justice Bernard Danquah. Widely recognized by his popular on-air moniker "99K," Danquah reportedly lost his life in a fatal road accident on July 24, 2026. His untimely passing has cast a pall of gloom over the media industry, where he was regarded as a vibrant and dedicated professional who used his platform to engage and inform the public. Danquah was a cornerstone of the broadcasting team at Radio Adikanfo, a prominent station in Berekum. Over the years, he built a reputation for excellence, connecting with listeners through his unique style and deep understanding of local issues. His alias, "99K," became a household name, symbolizing his energy and commitment to the airwaves. The news of the accident was first brought to public attention via social media reports from associates and fellow media practitioners, including Sir Joe, whose confirmation of the tragedy triggered a wave of tributes from fans and colleagues alike. This loss adds to the mounting tally of road traffic fatalities in the country, a recurring national concern that President John Mahama’s administration has pledged to address through improved infrastructure and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. For the people of Berekum, Danquah’s death is not just the loss of a journalist but the silencing of a voice that championed community development and social cohesion. As the municipality grapples with this void, many are calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the crash to prevent future occurrences on that stretch of road. As of now, the family of Justice Bernard Danquah and the management of Radio Adikanfo are yet to release a formal statement regarding the final funeral rites. However, the outpouring of grief across social media platforms underscores the profound impact he had on his audience. His colleagues describe him as a mentor and a friend whose passion for the craft was unmatched. The broadcasting fraternity continues to extend its deepest condolences to his bereaved family as they navigate this difficult period of loss.

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Kenyan Former NFL Player Daniel Adongo Deported from United States After Visa Overstay and Criminal Convictions

Daniel Adongo, the Kenyan-born athlete who made history as the first Kenyan to play in the National Football League (NFL), has been deported from the United States. The former Indianapolis Colts linebacker was removed from U.S. soil on June 20, following years of legal and immigration challenges. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that Adongo’s deportation was the result of a significant visa overstay combined with a series of criminal infractions that rendered him ineligible to remain in the country. This move concludes a decade-long saga for the athlete who once captured international headlines for his rare transition from professional rugby to American football. Adongo’s immigration status became precarious as far back as 2016 when his legal visa expired. Despite this, he remained in the United States, eventually drawing the attention of federal authorities through a string of run-ins with the law. His criminal record reportedly includes multiple arrests and a specific conviction for criminal mischief. Due to the nature of these offenses and his lack of legal residency, an immigration judge issued a formal deportation order in March. Federal officials maintained that Adongo's removal was necessary for community safety, characterizing the former athlete as a potential threat based on his documented behavioral history and criminal record. Before his decline into legal turmoil, Adongo was celebrated as a pioneer for African athletes in the United States. He originally moved to the U.S. to pursue a career in rugby but caught the eye of NFL scouts due to his exceptional physical prowess. He joined the Indianapolis Colts in 2013, appearing in several games before his career stalled. Since his departure from professional sports, his life has been marked by personal struggles that frequently made their way into the public eye. Now back in Kenya, Adongo’s case serves as a cautionary tale regarding the strict enforcement of immigration laws for non-citizens, regardless of their former celebrity status or professional achievements in the country.

Texts reveal 14-year-old allegedly murdered by singer D4vd had pregnancy and abortion
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Singer D4vd Faces Murder and Sexual Abuse Charges as Court Evidence Reveals Victim’s Pregnancy

The legal proceedings against the rising singer known as D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, have taken a distressing turn following new revelations during a pre-trial hearing. Burke stands accused of the murder and sexual abuse of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, a case that has sent shockwaves through the music industry and the public alike. Despite the gravity of the allegations, the artist has entered a plea of not guilty, setting the stage for a complex legal battle as investigators piece together the final days of the young victim’s life. During the recent hearing, digital evidence recovered from mobile devices provided a harrowing glimpse into the relationship between Burke and Hernandez. Text messages presented to the court indicated that the 14-year-old had been pregnant and subsequently underwent an abortion prior to her death. The records allegedly show Burke expressing significant concern regarding the pregnancy and the potential repercussions of the situation. These communications are being used by the prosecution to establish a timeline and a motive, painting a narrative of a relationship fraught with legal and personal complications. The recovery of this digital evidence is a central component of the prosecution's case, which also includes testimonies from individuals close to the events. The distressing details surrounding the victim's age and the nature of the sexual abuse charges have intensified public scrutiny of the case. For Burke, whose career was on an upward trajectory, the trial represents a total pivot from musical success to a fight for his freedom against the most serious of criminal charges. The narrative emerging from the courtroom depicts a complex and deeply troubling series of events leading to the minor's death. As the pre-trial phase continues, the court is expected to delve deeper into the forensic evidence and additional testimonies to determine the full extent of the circumstances leading to the tragic death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The legal community and fans of the singer remain closely focused on the proceedings, which are likely to have profound implications for justice and accountability in cases involving minors. The trial will continue as both sides prepare for the formal commencement of proceedings in the coming months.

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Electricity Company of Ghana Announces Scheduled Maintenance for Accra East and West Regions

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a series of emergency and planned maintenance operations set to affect power supply in several communities across the Accra East and West regions. Scheduled to take place between Sunday, July 26, and Monday, July 27, 2025, the maintenance is part of the utility provider's efforts to ensure system reliability and address critical infrastructure needs. Residents and business owners in the affected enclaves are advised to prepare for interruptions in electricity service during these specific windows. In the Accra East Region, the maintenance work is split between emergency repairs and planned upgrades. On Sunday, July 26, emergency maintenance will occur between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm, impacting areas such as Can West and the Melcom Shopping Mall. This will be followed by more extensive planned maintenance on Monday, July 27, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. During this period, communities including La Trust, Tseaddo, and La Palmwine Junction are expected to experience outages as technical teams work on the distribution network. Concurrently, the Accra West Region will undergo its own set of scheduled maintenance activities. On Sunday, July 26, power interruptions are expected from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in areas including Doblo and Nsuma. The work continues into Monday, July 27, with the same 9:00 am to 5:00 pm timeframe, specifically targeting the Bechem enclave and the Dansoman Market area. These outages are necessary to facilitate essential technical improvements and preventative measures within the regional power grid. The ECG has officially apologized for any inconvenience these interruptions may cause to domestic and commercial consumers. The company encourages affected residents to make alternative arrangements to mitigate the impact of the downtime on their daily activities. These maintenance cycles are critical for preventing long-term equipment failure and ensuring that the national grid remains resilient under the administration of President John Mahama, as the country continues to prioritize energy stability and infrastructure modernization.

Humpback Whale 'Supergroups' Surge Off South African Coast Decades After Whaling Ban
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Humpback Whale 'Supergroups' Surge Off South African Coast Decades After Whaling Ban

Off the coast of South Africa, a breathtaking marine phenomenon is taking hold as massive "supergroups" of humpback whales are being sighted with increasing frequency. These extraordinary gatherings, which occur primarily between the months of June and November, represent a dramatic shift in the behavior and population dynamics of these marine giants. Occurring nearly 50 years after the international ban on commercial whaling, the emergence of these large clusters serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the species and the long-term impact of global conservation efforts. Traditionally, humpback whales are known to travel and feed in small, intimate pods. However, researchers and observers are now witnessing a departure from this historical norm, with dozens or even hundreds of whales congregating in concentrated areas. This behavioral evolution marks a significant milestone in marine biology, suggesting that the population has reached a density that allows for such massive social and feeding interactions. The presence of these supergroups provides a unique opportunity for scientists to study whale communication and social structures on a scale that was previously impossible during the height of the whaling era. The timing of these sightings coincides with the whales' annual migration patterns along the South African coastline. From the winter months through late spring, the nutrient-rich waters serve as a vital corridor for the whales as they move through the region. The fact that these supergroups are becoming a more common fixture during this seasonal window suggests that the South African maritime environment continues to offer the necessary resources to sustain a growing and thriving population. This trend not only highlights the health of the local ecosystem but also underscores South Africa's role as a premier global destination for marine observation and research. Looking forward, the continued rise of humpback whale supergroups poses new questions for marine conservationists and policy-makers. While the recovery of the species is a cause for celebration, it also necessitates renewed vigilance in protecting migratory routes from modern threats such as ship strikes and industrial noise pollution. As these massive groups become a regular seasonal occurrence, they will likely drive increased interest in eco-tourism, providing a clear economic incentive to maintain the pristine nature of South Africa’s coastal waters for generations to come.

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NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Wontumi in Custody: Kumasi Prison PRO Details Permissible Food Guidelines

Following the sentencing of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the Ghana Prisons Service has clarified protocols regarding the provision of external food for inmates. CSP Richard Bukari, the Public Relations Officer of the Kumasi Central Prisons, addressed the public's growing curiosity and concerns during a recent media engagement. The clarification comes as the high-profile politician begins his term, sparking significant conversation across social media platforms and among political stakeholders in the Ashanti Region. In a detailed interview with Esra TV, CSP Bukari outlined the specific types of food items that are permissible for convicted prisoners. He emphasized that while families and associates are allowed to bring sustenance to inmates, these items must adhere to strict security and health standards maintained by the correctional facility. The PRO's guidance aims to ensure that supporters of Chairman Wontumi and the general public understand the logistical requirements and the mandatory safety checks performed on any food brought from outside the prison walls to prevent the introduction of contraband. The sentencing of such a prominent political figure has placed a spotlight on the conditions and regulations within the Kumasi Central Prisons. CSP Bukari’s proactive communication serves to manage expectations and provide transparency regarding inmate treatment, reinforcing that rules are applied consistently regardless of an individual's status. As the legal and political fallout of the Chairman’s conviction continues to unfold, prison authorities remain focused on maintaining order and ensuring that all inmates are treated according to established correctional protocols and the rule of law.

Farmer Kwabena Badam Arrested in Oti Region Following Fatal Shooting of Suspected Yam Thief
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Farmer Kwabena Badam Arrested in Oti Region Following Fatal Shooting of Suspected Yam Thief

The Dambai Divisional Police Command has taken 35-year-old farmer Kwabena Badam into custody following a fatal shooting incident at Abongo No. 1 in the Krachi East Municipality. The incident, which occurred around midnight on Saturday, July 25, 2026, involved the shooting of an unidentified man suspected of attempting to steal yams from Badam's farmland. The farmer is currently being held as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the death. According to preliminary reports, Badam discovered the intruder on his property during the late-night hours and opened fire, resulting in a fatal injury. In an unusual turn for such cases, Badam voluntarily reported the shooting to the local police immediately after it occurred. While the identity of the deceased has not yet been established, local community members reportedly attempted to view the body for identification purposes. However, the police declined this request to ensure the integrity of the crime scene and the ongoing investigation. The shooting has brought to the forefront growing tensions regarding agricultural security in the Krachi East Municipality. Philip Kwadwo Bidaba, the Local Assembly Member for the area, highlighted community concerns over persistent thefts that have plagued local farmers. While the Assembly Member’s comments reflect a climate of frustration among residents who feel their livelihoods are under threat, police officials have reiterated that the law does not permit the arbitrary use of lethal force against suspects. As of the latest reports, the body of the unidentified man has been transported to a mortuary for preservation and a formal autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Kwabena Badam remains in police custody while the Dambai Divisional Command completes its inquiry. Authorities have used the incident to urge residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and to instead rely on the judicial system to address criminal activities.