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.

U.S. Embassy in Accra to Suspend Most Routine Consular Services from July 20 for Facility Maintenance
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U.S. Embassy in Accra to Suspend Most Routine Consular Services from July 20 for Facility Maintenance

The United States Embassy in Accra has announced a temporary suspension of most routine consular services, scheduled to take place from Monday, July 20, to Friday, July 31, 2026. This two-week pause is necessary to facilitate essential maintenance work at the embassy facility. Regular operations and full services are expected to resume on Monday, August 3, 2026. This announcement affects a wide range of services for both Ghanaian applicants and U.S. citizens residing in or visiting the country, prompting officials to advise the public to plan their travel and documentation needs accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. During this maintenance period, several routine services will be completely unavailable, including walk-in notarial appointments and the processing of Consular Reports of Death Abroad. However, the embassy has clarified that certain functions will continue with specific modifications. Adult passport renewals submitted via the drop box system will still be processed. Additionally, individuals who have received official notifications that their passports or other documents are ready for collection may pick them up at the embassy, but these collections are restricted to Thursdays during the suspension window. For U.S. citizens facing urgent situations, the embassy has emphasized that emergency assistance remains available. A duty officer will be on hand to handle genuine emergencies during the maintenance period and can be reached via the embassy’s official emergency line at +233 (0) 30 274 1000. For all other non-emergency inquiries and routine updates, the public is encouraged to monitor the embassy’s official website and social media channels. This scheduled maintenance is part of the embassy's ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and long-term efficiency of its facilities for staff and visitors alike.

Ghana weather today: Rain, mist and rough seas expected across several regions
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GMET Forecasts Heavy Thunderstorms and Misty Conditions Across Ghana; Safety Warnings Issued for Coastal and Northern Regions

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMET) has issued a comprehensive weather update for mid-July, forecasting a mix of misty conditions, light rain, and intense thunderstorms across the country. On July 14, southern Ghana is expected to encounter heavy mist and fog, particularly in forested and mountainous areas. While early morning hours will be dominated by reduced visibility, coastal cities like Accra and Takoradi are slated for light showers, with intermittent sunny spells predicted before the return of late-afternoon precipitation in some localities. In the northern and transition zones, weather patterns are expected to be more severe. GMET predicts that heavy thunderstorms and rain will continue to impact these regions, with the northern sector remaining the hottest part of the country as temperatures reach peaks of 36°C. Inland areas, including Kumasi and Sunyani, are expected to follow a pattern of misty mornings clearing into sunny intervals, followed by potential isolated thunderstorms as the day progresses. These conditions are part of a broader weather system moving across the transition belt, bringing localized rain to parts of the Greater Accra and Eastern regions. The agency has emphasized public safety, issuing specific advisories for various sectors of the population. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution during the early morning hours due to fog-induced visibility issues, especially on major highways and within forested belts where mist is most dense. Additionally, a warning has been extended to the maritime community; fishers and operators of small vessels are advised to stay alert as rough sea conditions are anticipated along the Ghanaian coastline. Residents in areas prone to flash flooding are encouraged to remain vigilant as the rainy conditions persist through the week.

Road crash: 3 dead, 15 injured near Juaso on Kumasi-Accra highway
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Three Dead and 15 Injured in Fatal Collision Near Juaso on Kumasi-Accra Highway

A tragic road accident on the Kumasi-Accra highway has claimed three lives and left fifteen others with various degrees of injury. The collision occurred on Monday morning, July 13, 2026, at Juaso in the Ashanti Region. Emergency responders from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) arrived at the scene near the Next Bon Gas station, specifically the Juaso Three-Lane area, where they confirmed the deaths of two males and one female at the scene. The accident involved a heavy-duty truck and a passenger van. The truck, a clinker-loaded vehicle with registration number GN 9673-25, was being driven by Stephen Amankwah. It collided with a van, registered as GM 4002-26, which was under the control of Nyame Ebenezer. The impact of the crash was severe, causing significant damage to both vehicles and trapping several passengers within the wreckage. According to the GNFS, a total of 18 individuals were involved in the incident. While three individuals were pronounced dead upon arrival of the emergency teams, the remaining fifteen survivors sustained injuries ranging from minor to critical. First responders provided initial medical assistance on-site to stabilize the victims before they were transported to nearby medical facilities for further treatment. The prompt intervention of the fire service was crucial in managing the scene and preventing further casualties, especially given the presence of a gas station near the crash site. Local authorities have launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision to determine the exact cause of the crash. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns on the Kumasi-Accra highway, one of Ghana's busiest and most accident-prone transit corridors. Police and road safety officials are expected to release more details once the investigation is concluded and statements are taken from the drivers and surviving witnesses.

Naval Training Command and IPRA Excellence Awards Highlight Ghana's Professional Growth in Security and Communication
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Naval Training Command and IPRA Excellence Awards Highlight Ghana's Professional Growth in Security and Communication

The Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) has officially launched its maiden VIP Protection Course at the School of Maritime Operations (SMOPS) in a bid to modernize Ghana's security capacity. This landmark training initiative, which commenced on July 13, 2026, aims to equip personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces and other security agencies with specialized close-protection skills. The launch coincides with a major international achievement for the country's communication sector, as a Ghanaian storytelling campaign was named a winner at the 2026 IPRA Golden World Awards. These dual milestones reflect a broader trend of professional advancement within the nation’s security and public relations industries. Led by elite instructors from the Special Boat Squadron, the NAVTRAC course covers a comprehensive curriculum including threat assessment, convoy drills, and emergency response. During the opening ceremony, Commanding Officer Commander Seth Dzakpasu emphasized the critical importance of professionalism and teamwork in high-stakes security operations. Naval Captain David Dela Kpetigo further noted that the course is a strategic response to evolving modern security challenges. Simultaneously, the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) recognized 95 campaigns globally for excellence, with Ghana’s storytelling entry standing out among international competitors. The winners will be celebrated at a grand gala in Athens, Greece, on September 25, 2026, where the prestigious Grand Prix winner will be revealed. In the social sphere, legal and spiritual matters have converged following the extradition and arrest of popular socialite Abu Trica. Prophet Roja, the founder and leader of Roja Ministries, has issued a public appeal to the family of the socialite for a private meeting. Speaking on Ahenfie TV, the prophet expressed his desire to provide spiritual insight into the situation, noting that he had previously been unable to focus on the matter during a recent all-night service. This development adds a layer of community interest to the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the socialite’s return to Ghana. Amidst these headlines, the Ghanaian community is also reflecting on personal milestones and the legacies of its citizens. A recent personal account shared on GhanaWeb highlights the internal mental challenges and shifting dynamics in modern marriages, specifically focusing on the psychological impact of salary disparities between spouses. Additionally, the family of the late Mrs. Essie Nyamekye Quainoo (Nee Annan) has announced her transition, with a burial mass scheduled for July 31, 2026, at Christ the King Catholic Church in Accra. Friends and well-wishers are invited to celebrate her life and legacy in white or black-and-white attire, marking a moment of somber reflection in a week of national activity.

ECG Announces Nationwide Power Maintenance as NADMO Dispatches Relief to Volta Region Flood Victims
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ECG Announces Nationwide Power Maintenance as NADMO Dispatches Relief to Volta Region Flood Victims

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) have launched separate large-scale operations this week aimed at infrastructure stability and humanitarian relief across the country. While ECG has scheduled essential maintenance works to improve service delivery in several regions, NADMO is actively responding to a crisis in the Volta Region, where flooding has displaced thousands of residents. These simultaneous efforts highlight a period of intensive government intervention to address both long-term utility reliability and immediate disaster recovery needs. Beginning July 13 and 14, ECG is conducting a mix of emergency and planned maintenance that will result in temporary power outages in several key areas. In the Greater Accra Region, the Accra West district will see outages affecting Asofian White House and the Poultry Farm area on July 13, followed by maintenance in Ofankor on July 14. Meanwhile, Accra East residents in Alajo and near the New China Mall should also prepare for scheduled interruptions. The maintenance schedule further extends to the Ashanti and Central Regions, including significant work at the Cape Coast Bulk Supply Point. In the Volta Region, Tafi and its surrounding communities are slated for maintenance on July 14 between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. ECG has issued a formal apology to the public, urging customers to make necessary arrangements to mitigate the inconvenience. Parallel to these infrastructure updates, the Volta Region is currently the focus of a major humanitarian mission led by NADMO and the Volta Regional Minister. In response to recent devastating floods that have impacted approximately 54,000 individuals across 12 districts, authorities have begun the distribution of essential supplies. The relief package is extensive, comprising 2,000 mattresses, 6,000 mosquito nets, 2,000 bags of rice, and 400 bottles of oil, among other vital items. This intervention is designed to provide immediate support to the thousands of families whose lives and livelihoods were upended by the rising waters. The dual focus on utility maintenance and disaster relief underscores the ongoing challenges within Ghana’s regional infrastructure and environmental management. While the power outages are expected to be brief and result in a more resilient grid, the situation in the Volta Region requires sustained attention. NADMO officials have emphasized that beyond the current delivery of relief items, they are working on long-term mitigation measures to address the underlying causes of the flooding. As the maintenance period concludes, the government remains focused on stabilizing service delivery while continuing to monitor the recovery process in the flood-affected districts.

Two people fleeing to Togo arrested over alleged murder of roommate in relation to fraud proceeds
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Ghanaian Police Probe Airport Resident’s Death and Apprehend Suspects in Tamale Murder and Child Stealing Cases

Ghanaian security agencies and the judiciary have intensified efforts to combat crime, resulting in a series of arrests and a significant conviction across various regions. From the sentencing of a child abductor in Accra to the pursuit of justice in a homicide case in Tamale and a mysterious shooting in the capital’s elite suburbs, law enforcement remains on high alert. These incidents highlight the diverse nature of contemporary crime in Ghana, ranging from domestic abduction to violent disputes over illegal financial gains and unexplained deaths in residential areas. In the legal sphere, the Adentan Circuit Court has convicted David Kpandoyo, a 25-year-old Togolese mason, for the abduction of a four-year-old boy. Kpandoyo stole the child from Kpedze in the Volta Region and transported him to Accra, where the boy was later discovered wandering alone in the New Legon area. Although Kpandoyo initially claimed the child had approached him at a drinking spot, he subsequently confessed to the police that he had abducted the minor. With the mother previously unaware of the boy's whereabouts, the court has scheduled Kpandoyo's sentencing for July 14, 2026, marking a significant resolution to a distressing case of child stealing. Simultaneously, the Northern Regional Police Command achieved a breakthrough in a violent crime investigation in Tamale. On July 11, 2026, officers arrested two Nigerian nationals, Daniel Victor Eze and David Oko Ewa, as they attempted to flee across the border into Togo. The duo is linked to the murder of 36-year-old Nkemujika Uzorchuku Eze in Sanzirigu. Preliminary police inquiries suggest the killing was motivated by a conspiracy involving financial disputes related to the proceeds of internet fraud. Authorities recovered several items stolen from the victim's residence, and the suspects remain in custody awaiting their court appearance. In Accra, the Homicide Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is currently probing the circumstances surrounding the death of businessman Fred Akowuah. Mr. Akowuah, a resident popularly known as a "US borga," was found dead in his Airport Residential Area home following reports of a gunshot. Since the investigation began on June 9, 2026, detectives have been working to determine whether the incident was a case of homicide or suicide. This high-profile investigation continues to draw public attention as forensic teams examine the scene for evidence that could clarify the events leading to the fatal shooting. These cases underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Ghanaian law enforcement in maintaining public safety and securing national borders. The successful apprehension of suspects attempting to flee to neighboring Togo demonstrates the effectiveness of regional police coordination, while the conviction in the child-stealing case provides a sense of justice for the victim's family. As the CID continues its forensic examination into the Airport Residential shooting and the court prepares to sentence Kpandoyo, the public remains focused on the efficiency and transparency of the nation's criminal justice system.

Thai News Pix Tables and chairs are covered in ash at the scene of a fatal fire at a bar in Bangkok
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Dozens Dead in Côte d’Ivoire Bus Crash, Brussels Tower Fire, and Bangkok Venue Blaze

A series of devastating tragedies across Côte d’Ivoire, Belgium, and Thailand has left dozens dead and many more injured, prompting urgent investigations into transport and structural safety. In northwestern Côte d’Ivoire, at least 14 people were killed when an intercity bus operated by Diarra Transport plunged into the Bafing River. The bus, carrying over 50 passengers from Odienne to Yamoussoukro, veered off the road near Bafingdala village along the Touba-Biankou road. Local rescue teams are currently searching for several missing persons, while at least 40 survivors are receiving treatment for various injuries sustained in the plunge. In Brussels, a lethal fire at the Oxy tower construction site has claimed multiple lives, with emergency services discovering several victims inside a stuck lift shaft. The blaze spread rapidly through the building's infrastructure, complicating rescue efforts and leaving at least six people missing. The incident drew high-level attention, with King Philippe and Prime Minister Bart De Wever visiting the scene to support first responders. While the fire was contained, the heat was so intense that one firefighter required medical attention, and two other individuals suffered severe burns during the evacuation. Meanwhile, in Thailand, the death toll from a fire at a Bangkok bar has risen to 30. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by a short circuit in an air conditioning unit and was exacerbated by highly flammable interior decorations. Survivors described a chaotic scene with locked emergency doors and poor signage, which trapped many victims in restrooms as they sought to escape the rapidly spreading flames. It has since emerged that the establishment was registered as a restaurant, a status that allowed it to bypass the more stringent fire safety requirements mandated for entertainment venues. These disparate events highlight a global need for stricter adherence to safety protocols and regulatory oversight. In Bangkok, the bar owner's history with previous fires is being examined, while in Côte d’Ivoire and Brussels, authorities are focused on recovery and identifying the exact mechanical or structural failures that led to such significant loss of life. These tragedies serve as a somber reminder of the critical importance of emergency preparedness and the rigorous enforcement of safety standards to protect the public in both transit and commercial spaces.

Christian Council and GRA Lead Renewed National Drive for Environmental Sanitation and Civic Responsibility
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Christian Council and GRA Lead Renewed National Drive for Environmental Sanitation and Civic Responsibility

In a coordinated push toward a cleaner Ghana, the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) have launched significant initiatives to foster environmental stewardship and community sanitation. The CCG recently donated 500 copies of its educational booklet, titled "A Clean Environment – Our Responsibility," to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), while the GRA Commissioner-General, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, has made a clarion call to the business community to support youth-led clean-up exercises. Together, these efforts represent a multi-sectoral approach involving religious bodies, state institutions, and the private sector to address the perennial challenges of waste management and urban flooding. The Christian Council's donation, led by General Secretary Rev. Dr. Cyril Fayose, is a strategic move to leverage GBC’s nationwide media reach to promote the Environmental Care and Cleanliness Programme. This program, which was originally launched in April 2026 in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government, aims to shift public attitudes toward sanitation. Receiving the materials in Accra, GBC Director-General Professor Amin Alhassan pledged the corporation’s full support, emphasizing that media platforms are critical in transforming civic responsibility from a concept into a daily practice for all Ghanaians. Simultaneously, the Ghana Revenue Authority is emphasizing the physical and logistical side of environmental maintenance. Commissioner-General Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, speaking after participating in a National Sanitation Day exercise in Accra, urged businesses and philanthropists to provide tools and resources for local youth groups. He argued that supporting these grassroots initiatives is not just a social good but a necessity for business efficiency, as clean environments reduce health risks and improve productivity. Sarpong specifically highlighted the importance of clearing filth from flood-prone areas to mitigate the devastating effects of the rainy season. As these initiatives progress, the focus remains on sustainability and long-term behavioral change. The CCG plans to expand its educational outreach, while the GRA and local youth groups intend to continue their clean-up exercises in the coming months. By combining educational literature with active community mobilization, these organizations are laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sanitary national infrastructure, ultimately aiming to foster a culture where every citizen and business takes ownership of their immediate environment.

Ghana weather today: Rain, mist and rough seas expected across several regions
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Ghana Meteorological Agency Forecasts Morning Mist and Afternoon Thunderstorms Nationwide

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a comprehensive weather forecast for July 14, 2023, predicting a day of varied atmospheric conditions ranging from early morning mist to intense afternoon thunderstorms. Southern Ghana is expected to be particularly affected by misty conditions and light rainfall during the early hours, which may significantly impact visibility for commuters and residents. As the day progresses, the focus of weather activity is projected to shift toward the northern and transition belts, where thunderstorms are likely to develop later in the afternoon and evening. In coastal areas, including the major hubs of Accra and Takoradi, light showers are anticipated, while inland regions such as Kumasi and Sunyani are expected to start the day with mist before clearing into sunny intervals. Despite the rain and cloud cover in the south, the northern sector of the country is forecast to remain the hottest, with temperatures climbing to a maximum of 36°C. This temperature disparity highlights the distinct weather patterns currently influencing different geographic zones across the country, with localized rain also expected in parts of the Eastern Region and Greater Accra. Safety remains a primary concern for the agency, which has issued specific warnings for motorists and maritime workers. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution due to reduced visibility caused by fog and heavy rain, especially in forested areas and during the early morning period. Furthermore, the GMet has advised fishers and small vessel operators to be wary of rough sea conditions along the coast. These warnings come as part of a broader alert following heavy thunderstorms that have already impacted the northern and transition zones, necessitating heightened vigilance for residents in affected areas throughout the day.

U.S. Embassy in Accra Announces Two-Week Suspension of Consular Services for Maintenance
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U.S. Embassy in Accra Announces Two-Week Suspension of Consular Services for Maintenance

The United States Embassy in Accra has announced a temporary suspension of most routine consular services scheduled to take place from July 20 to July 31, 2026. This two-week hiatus is necessary to facilitate essential facility maintenance within the embassy compound. According to official communications, regular operations and all standard consular appointments are expected to resume on Monday, August 3, 2026. The embassy has urged the public to take note of these dates to avoid any inconvenience regarding travel plans or documentation needs. During the maintenance period, several key services will be unavailable, including walk-in notarial appointments and the processing of Consular Reports of Death Abroad. However, the embassy has outlined specific exceptions to ensure that some critical workflows continue. For instance, individuals who have already been notified that their passports or other documents are ready for collection may still pick them up on Thursdays during the suspension period. Furthermore, the processing of adult passport renewals through the established drop box system will remain operational, providing a degree of continuity for U.S. citizens. For American citizens experiencing emergencies, the embassy has confirmed that assistance will remain available throughout the maintenance window. A duty officer can be reached at the embassy’s primary contact number, +233 (0) 30 274 1000, for urgent matters. Members of the public are strongly advised to plan their consular requirements well in advance of the July 20 start date. The embassy recommends regularly checking its official website and communication channels for any potential updates or additional information regarding the resumption of services and any changes to the maintenance schedule.

Bole Police Arrest 40-Year-Old Woman for Allegedly Murdering Husband Following Domestic Dispute
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Bole Police Arrest 40-Year-Old Woman for Allegedly Murdering Husband Following Domestic Dispute

The Bole District Police in the Savannah Region have taken into custody a 40-year-old woman, identified as Mmaa, for the alleged murder of her husband. The tragic incident occurred at their residence following a heated domestic dispute that escalated during the night. The victim, a local farmer, was reportedly attacked in a state of vulnerability, leading to a fatal outcome that has shocked the local community. According to accounts provided by the couple’s children, a misunderstanding between the parents preceded the violence. One of the daughters reported hearing her mother explicitly threaten to kill her father during their argument. Later that night, while the husband was asleep, Mmaa allegedly carried out the attack. Although neighbors were quickly sought for assistance, they returned to find the victim unconscious in a pool of blood. He was rushed to the hospital but was tragically pronounced dead on arrival. The couple had nine children together, with the youngest being only four years old. The sudden death of the father and the arrest of the mother have left the large family in a state of distress and uncertainty. Authorities have indicated that the victim's body has been released to the family to proceed with burial arrangements according to their traditions. Investigations into the motive and the specific circumstances surrounding the attack are currently ongoing. Mmaa remains in police custody as officials prepare the case for the legal process. This incident highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence on the family unit, leaving nearly a dozen children without the immediate care of either parent.

Ing. Kwabena Bempong Announces Accra-Tema Motorway Reconstruction is 48% Complete with Focus on Flood Mitigation
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Ing. Kwabena Bempong Announces Accra-Tema Motorway Reconstruction is 48% Complete with Focus on Flood Mitigation

The reconstruction of the vital Accra-Tema Motorway has reached a significant milestone, with construction consultant Ing. Kwabena Bempong reporting that the project is now 48% complete. This update marks a crucial stage in the redevelopment of one of Ghana’s most critical transport arteries, which serves as a backbone for commerce and commuting between the capital and the industrial hub of Tema. The ongoing works are particularly focused on enhancing the road's resilience against the recurring threat of urban flooding through advanced engineering and expanded drainage capacity. A primary feature of the current phase is the comprehensive overhaul of the area’s drainage infrastructure. According to Ing. Bempong, the project includes the construction of 20 culverts and three major interchanges, most of which are nearing completion. In addition to the main motorway, the project prioritizes an urban highway designed to serve as a service road, ensuring smoother local traffic flow. These improvements are strategically designed to manage stormwater more effectively, addressing long-standing concerns regarding flooding that frequently disrupts transit along this route during the rainy season. Despite the scale of the construction, engineers have implemented measures to ensure the motorway remains passable for motorists throughout the project duration. The project team has acknowledged that managing traffic diversions remains one of the most significant challenges during this phase of work. However, safety protocols are strictly enforced to minimize risks to both workers and the public. The coordination of these diversions is essential to maintaining productivity on the site while reducing the inconvenience caused to the thousands of commuters who rely on the motorway daily. This progress report follows a nationwide clean-up initiative led by President John Dramani Mahama, which was launched in response to recent flooding crises across the country. The integration of robust drainage systems into the motorway project aligns with this broader national effort to improve urban infrastructure and disaster preparedness. As the project moves toward its second half, the completion of the interchanges and culverts is expected to provide much-needed relief to motorists and residents alike, significantly reducing the impact of heavy rains on the regional transport network.