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.

7 Years on the run: Convicted fraudster 'Chad' arrested while trying to flee Ghana
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Ghana Police Apprehend Convicted Fraudster Eric Afoakwa After Seven-Year Manhunt

The Ghana Police Service has successfully apprehended Eric Afoakwa, a notorious convicted fraudster popularly known as 'Chad,' who had been a fugitive from justice for seven years. Afoakwa was intercepted by security forces while attempting to flee the country, marking the end of a long-standing manhunt. His arrest brings to a close a high-profile case that dates back to 2019, when he was sentenced in absentia for a series of serious financial crimes including money laundering. The legal troubles for Afoakwa began years ago, culminating in a conviction by the court for his involvement in various fraudulent activities. In addition to his eight-year prison sentence, the court had ordered him to make a significant financial restitution of $132,660. Despite the gravity of the charges and the court’s ruling, Afoakwa managed to evade the authorities for over half a decade, living in the shadows and avoiding the implementation of his sentence until his recent attempt to cross Ghana's borders. The successful operation that led to his capture was carried out by the Anti-Armed Robbery Unit of the Ghana Police Service. Acting on intelligence that the fugitive was planning to leave the jurisdiction to avoid his prison term and financial obligations, the unit moved swiftly to secure the arrest. The Police Service has since reaffirmed its dedication to pursuing all individuals who attempt to escape the law, emphasizing that their reach is long and their commitment to justice remains unwavering. Following his arrest, Afoakwa is expected to be processed immediately to begin serving his eight-year sentence and fulfill the court-ordered repayments. The Ghana Police Service indicated that they will continue to work in close collaboration with other state security and investigative agencies to ensure that all fugitives are brought to book. This arrest serves as a stern warning to those who believe they can evade the legal system, reinforcing the state's resolve to uphold the rule of law and protect the financial integrity of the nation.

Prophet Opambour Levels Grave Health Allegations Against Adom Kyei-Duah Amidst Rising Wave of Domestic and Legal Scandals
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Prophet Opambour Levels Grave Health Allegations Against Adom Kyei-Duah Amidst Rising Wave of Domestic and Legal Scandals

Ghana’s social and religious landscape has been dominated by a series of high-profile controversies, led by serious allegations from Prophet Ebenezer Adarkwa Yiadom, popularly known as Opambour. The prophet has sparked intense debate on social media by accusing fellow clergyman Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah of being linked to the deaths of several individuals. Opambour claimed that families have approached him reporting that their relatives passed away after consuming products associated with Kyei-Duah’s ministry, specifically mentioning ‘sobolo,’ ‘Blood of Jesus’ powder, and kenkey. These allegations have raised significant concerns regarding the intersection of spiritual leadership and the safety of faith-based health products. Simultaneously, the public has been transfixed by a string of startling domestic revelations. In one instance, a 31-year-old woman shared a confession regarding a five-year marriage that has been built on a profound secret. Despite describing her husband as hardworking and intelligent, she revealed that their second child was actually fathered by her late father-in-law. In another public display of marital distress, a woman named Hawa appeared on the popular ‘Oyerepa Afutuo’ program to demand a divorce from her husband, Abu. Just three months into their marriage, Hawa alleged a failure to consummate the union, even going so far as to dare her husband to a ‘live demo’ in the studio to disprove her claims of his impotency. Amidst these personal and spiritual conflicts, legal experts have begun weighing in on the risks inherent in modern relationships. Controversial lawyer Maurice Ampaw has issued a public advisory cautioning individuals to be mindful of the legal repercussions that can arise from intimate interactions. In his discussion of ‘Sleep Over vs. Come Over’ scenarios, Ampaw emphasized that many people are unaware of the potential for legal entanglements when personal boundaries are blurred or when relationship dynamics shift unexpectedly. His advice serves as a cautionary framework for those navigating the increasingly public nature of romantic and domestic disputes. These developing stories highlight a growing trend in Ghana where deeply private matters—ranging from paternity secrets to medical claims by religious figures—are being thrust into the public eye through social media and traditional broadcasting. As these cases continue to unfold, they underscore the complex relationships between faith, law, and personal integrity. Whether these disputes are settled in the courtroom, the studio, or the pulpit, they continue to shape the national conversation on ethics and social conduct.

Sefwi Sayerano Police Post Arson and Eastern Region Fires Highlight Growing Safety and Infrastructure Concerns
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Sefwi Sayerano Police Post Arson and Eastern Region Fires Highlight Growing Safety and Infrastructure Concerns

A wave of unrest and accidental disasters has hit several regions across Ghana, marked by a fatal shooting in the Western North Region and destructive fire outbreaks in the Eastern Region. In the Juaboso District, tensions flared at Sefwi Sayerano after a police shooting resulted in two fatalities. In a retaliatory act, unidentified individuals set the police post at Asempaneye Forest ablaze. While no additional injuries were reported from the fire, the incident has sparked significant security concerns and raised questions regarding the relationship between law enforcement and the local community. In the Eastern Region, fire officials are investigating two separate outbreaks that have left residents displaced and educational facilities damaged. At Ankaase SDA New Town, a six-bedroom house was completely razed early Sunday morning, displacing 12 individuals and destroying household belongings. Meanwhile, at Adonten Senior High School, a separate blaze gutted the Housemaster’s office and damaged other school properties. Although firefighters managed to contain both blazes and salvage some key materials at the school, the incidents have prompted urgent calls from the Ghana National Fire Service for the public to adhere strictly to fire safety protocols. Parallel to these safety emergencies, infrastructure frustrations are boiling over in the Greater Accra Region. Residents of the Community 25 Savanna stretch in Tema have issued a stern warning to the government, threatening to block major roads if immediate repairs are not undertaken. The community attributes the deplorable state of their roads to the combined impact of recent heavy rainfall and the frequent passage of heavy-duty vehicles. Residents argue that the current conditions have made commuting nearly impossible and are demanding a swift intervention to restore the thoroughfare. These collective incidents underscore a critical period for regional authorities as they navigate a landscape of civil unrest, accidental disasters, and infrastructure deficits. As investigations continue into the Sefwi shooting and the Eastern Region fires, the government faces mounting pressure to address the underlying causes of community frustration. Moving forward, a coordinated response from security agencies, the Fire Service, and the Ministry of Roads and Highways will be essential to ensuring public safety and maintaining social stability across the affected districts.

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ECG and Ghana Water Limited Announce Major Utility Disruptions for Scheduled Maintenance in July 2026

Residents across several regions in Ghana are set to face significant utility disruptions this week as both the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Ghana Water Limited (GWL) carry out scheduled maintenance works. The planned interruptions, scheduled for July 8 and July 9, 2026, are aimed at improving the long-term efficiency and reliability of the nation's power and water infrastructure. While ECG’s maintenance spans multiple regions including Ashanti, Volta, and parts of Accra, GWL’s operations will specifically target a 24-hour shutdown of the Dodowa Booster Station, affecting several key residential and commercial hubs in the Greater Accra Region. The Electricity Company of Ghana’s maintenance schedule for Wednesday, July 8, is broad in scope, covering the Ashanti, Accra West, Volta, and Central regions. In the Ashanti Region, the outages are expected to last from 9:00 am until as late as 5:00 pm, impacting communities such as Kumawu and Oyoko. Beyond these scheduled activities, ECG noted that the Accra East Region is also dealing with unplanned outages caused by a faulty transformer. The company has apologized for the inconvenience and urged customers in the affected zones to prepare for the interruptions. Following the power maintenance, Ghana Water Limited will initiate a comprehensive 24-hour shutdown of the Dodowa Booster Station starting July 9, 2026. This exercise is critical for enhancing the water supply system's reliability. Residents and businesses in East Legon, Madina, Adenta, Ashaley Botwe, and Dodowa have been warned to expect a complete cessation of water supply or significantly reduced pressure during this period. GWL has advised all affected customers to store sufficient water in advance and to manage their supplies carefully until the maintenance is completed. These coordinated maintenance efforts underscore the ongoing technical upgrades required to stabilize Ghana's utility sectors. Both ECG and GWL have emphasized that while these temporary shutdowns cause short-term hardship, they are essential for preventing future system failures. The public is encouraged to stay updated through official communication channels, with both companies promising to work toward a prompt restoration of services once the technical objectives are met.

16-Year-Old Suspect Arrested After Injuring Two Girls in Attack at German School
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16-Year-Old Suspect Arrested After Injuring Two Girls in Attack at German School

On July 8, a 16-year-old boy was detained following a violent attack at Welfen-Gymnasium in Schongau, Bavaria, which left two 13-year-old girls seriously injured. The incident, which occurred just days before the start of the summer holidays, triggered a massive emergency response in the southern German town. While the victims' injuries are considered serious and required hospitalization, medical authorities have confirmed that they are not currently in life-threatening condition. The suspect was reportedly armed with both a knife and a firearm at the time of the incident. Although a government minister confirmed the nature of the knife attack, police investigations are still clarifying the exact sequence of events and the extent of the injuries inflicted by each weapon. A significant police operation was launched immediately, involving the deployment of helicopters and specialized units to secure the school grounds and ensure the safety of other students and staff who were present during the morning hours. Preliminary investigations are focusing on the suspect's background and potential motives. Authorities are exploring reports that the 16-year-old may be a former student of the school and have noted that he had previously received psychiatric treatment. Investigators are currently treating the case as a potential rampage, though a definitive motive has yet to be established. The integration of mental health history into the investigation underscores the complexity of the case as police work to determine why the teenager targeted the secondary school. In the wake of the trauma, the local community has mobilized to support those affected. A support center has been established near the school to assist families, and witnessing students are receiving specialized psychological counseling to cope with the events. As the school year draws to a close, the incident has left the town of Schongau in shock, with officials promising a thorough investigation to provide clarity to the victims' families and evaluate school safety protocols.

Firefighters recover body from flooded drainage channel at Kpando-Gabi
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Ghana Floods: Fatality Recorded in Kpando as Anloga District Appeals for Urgent Aid Amid Storm Warnings

Recent heavy rainfall across Ghana has resulted in a tragic loss of life and widespread displacement, prompting urgent calls for government and humanitarian intervention. In the Volta Region, firefighters from the Kpando Fire Station of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) recovered the body of a male from a flooded drainage channel in Kpando-Gabi after the channel overflowed. This tragedy coincides with a deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Anloga District, where severe flooding in the Shime A and Shime B areas has displaced numerous families and disrupted local livelihoods, highlighting the growing vulnerability of coastal and inland communities to extreme weather events. In response to the crisis in Anloga, Madam Dzifa Agbetepey, CEO of Royal Women in Cinema Ghana, has issued a passionate appeal for immediate assistance. During a visit to the affected Shime communities, she highlighted the disproportionate impact of the floods on vulnerable groups, particularly women and the elderly. While her organization has already provided initial cash and essential supplies with the support of local leaders, Madam Agbetepey emphasized that the scale of the disaster requires a coordinated effort. She urged corporations, NGOs, and development partners to provide relief and called on the government to prioritize long-term infrastructural investments to mitigate future flood risks. The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has further intensified concerns by forecasting continued thunderstorms and rain across the middle, transition, and northern sectors of the country. While northern regions may experience sunny intervals in the afternoon, the southern sector remains under threat of intermittent cloudiness and evening thunderstorms. Specific areas, including Ho, Tamale, and Bolgatanga, are expected to see significant weather activity, while coastal cities like Accra and Cape Coast may experience slight morning rain transitioning to cloudy conditions. Temperatures across the country are expected to range between 22°C and 35°C. Safety remains a paramount concern as the GNFS and GMet issue warnings to the public and transport operators. GMet has warned of mist and fog in mountainous and forest regions, which could significantly reduce visibility for motorists, and noted that sea conditions remain rough, necessitating caution for marine users. Meanwhile, emergency services have strongly advised citizens to avoid attempting to cross flooded areas or drainage channels during heavy downpours to prevent further loss of life. The combined situation underscores an urgent need for enhanced disaster management and climate resilience strategies across Ghana’s most at-risk districts.

Selorm Kwaku Tettey: Glikpome Basic School Headteacher Found Dead in Akatsi Guest House
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Selorm Kwaku Tettey: Glikpome Basic School Headteacher Found Dead in Akatsi Guest House

The Akatsi South Municipality in the Volta Region has been thrown into a state of mourning following the sudden death of Selorm Kwaku Tettey, the 44-year-old headteacher of Glikpome Basic School. Mr. Tettey’s body was discovered on the morning of July 7, 2026, within the premises of the Joli Bebe Guest House in Akatsi. The news has sent shockwaves through the local education community, where he was regarded as a dedicated professional and a vital contributor to the development of his students and the school. The discovery was made at approximately 10:00 AM by a guest house staff member during routine duties. Prior to the grim find, concerns regarding Mr. Tettey’s whereabouts had been mounting after his wife reported that she was unable to establish contact with him through his mobile phone. Her inability to reach him prompted a report to education authorities and local leaders. An Assembly Member for the area later verified the scene alongside Ghana Police Service officers who were dispatched to the location immediately after the report was filed. Preliminary investigations conducted by the police at the guest house revealed no immediate visible signs of physical assault or struggle on the body, leading to questions regarding the medical or underlying circumstances of his passing. Law enforcement officials have cordoned off the scene to ensure a thorough investigation into the events leading up to his arrival at the guest house and his subsequent death. Local community members and colleagues have expressed deep grief, describing the loss as a significant blow to the Akatsi South educational sector. Mr. Tettey’s body has been conveyed to a local morgue for preservation and a scheduled post-mortem examination. The results of the autopsy are expected to provide definitive answers and help the police determine the official cause of death. As the investigation continues, authorities have urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, while the Glikpome Basic School community prepares to honor the memory of their late headteacher.

DVLA clarifies stolen GH¢308,000 does not belong to Authority
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DVLA Personnel Ebenezer Ghartey Charged Over GH¢308,300 Mobile Money Fraud

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has clarified that a significant financial crime involving a former National Service Person was a private matter, emphasizing that public funds were not compromised in the alleged GH¢308,300 theft. Ebenezer Ghartey, who was attached to the Authority, is facing charges for allegedly siphoning the substantial sum through a series of unauthorized Mobile Money (MoMo) transactions. While initial reports linked the theft to the organization, the DVLA has formally stated that the incident stems from a personal dispute and involves funds belonging to an individual colleague rather than the Authority's official revenue. This clarification aims to maintain public trust in the Authority's financial integrity. According to the prosecution's case, Ghartey orchestrated the fraud by accessing a colleague’s merchant MoMo account without permission and transferring funds to his personal account over a period of time. The illicitly obtained money, totaling over three hundred thousand cedis, was reportedly used to fund a variety of personal lifestyle upgrades. Investigators traced the expenditures to the payment of rent and the purchase of a vehicle and furniture. The discrepancy was only discovered after suspicious withdrawal patterns were flagged on the merchant account, leading to a formal police report and Ghartey’s subsequent apprehension by authorities. During his appearance in court, Ghartey pleaded not guilty to the charges, despite earlier reports suggesting he had admitted to the actions in his initial statement to the police. The presiding judge granted him bail in the sum of GH¢100,000 as the case moves toward a full trial. This situation highlights the growing concerns regarding internal security and the potential for digital fraud within professional environments. The DVLA’s proactive statement serves to reassure the public that its internal financial systems remain secure and that this breach was limited to a private criminal matter between two individuals. The legal proceedings are scheduled to continue as the prosecution prepares to present further evidence regarding the unauthorized transfers and the recovery of assets. The court has set the next hearing for August 4, 2026. This case is being closely monitored as it underscores the importance of vigilance in managing merchant Mobile Money accounts and the legal consequences of digital financial crimes in Ghana. The final verdict will likely provide a benchmark for how such internal thefts are adjudicated in the future.

River Oti Canoe Tragedy: Three Dead and Three Missing After Vessel Capsizes in Northern Region
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River Oti Canoe Tragedy: Three Dead and Three Missing After Vessel Capsizes in Northern Region

A somber atmosphere has enveloped Salnaayili in the Northern Region following a tragic canoe accident on the River Oti that claimed the lives of three individuals. On July 7, 2023, a vessel carrying eight passengers capsized during a crossing, leaving three others, including an infant, missing. The incident has prompted an urgent search and rescue operation as the local community and authorities grapple with the loss and search for survivors. The victims were reportedly returning from a funeral when the disaster struck. The group on board consisted of five women, one man, and two babies. Despite the treacherous conditions, one woman and her baby managed to swim to safety and reach the shore. Initial reports from the scene indicate that none of the passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident, a critical factor that likely contributed to the severity of the casualties during the crossing. Search and rescue efforts are currently intensified, with local fishermen working alongside emergency authorities to locate the three missing persons. The River Oti is a vital transport route for many communities in the region, but this latest tragedy highlights the persistent dangers associated with water travel in areas where safety regulations are often overlooked. As the search continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for stricter enforcement of safety measures, including the mandatory use of life-saving equipment on all watercraft.

Police intensify crackdown on illegal sirens, arrest several motorists
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Ghana Police Service Intensifies Nationwide Crackdown on Illegal Sirens and Vehicle Modifications

The Ghana Police Service has launched a comprehensive enforcement operation across the country, with a significant crackdown currently centered in the Ashanti Region. This initiative targets the illegal use of sirens, strobe lights, and other unauthorized vehicle modifications that contribute to road indiscipline and safety risks. Authorities have expressed concern over the growing trend of private motorists installing emergency warning devices, which not only confuses the public but also endangers other road users and undermines the authority of emergency services. In Kumasi, the Regional Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), bolstered by reinforcements from the Central MTTD and National Headquarters, recently conducted intensive checks at high-traffic locations, including the Airport and Santasi Roundabouts. During these targeted operations, a total of 188 vehicles were intercepted for various traffic violations. Officers focused on identifying and removing prohibited equipment such as unauthorized sirens, strobe lights, and improvised headlamps. Additionally, the operation addressed the illegal use of road shoulders by drivers attempting to bypass traffic congestion, a practice that further complicates road safety in the region. The police emphasized that these modifications and behaviors are in direct violation of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180). Beyond the technical violations, officials highlighted that the misuse of sirens and emergency lights poses a serious threat to public safety and fosters a culture of lawlessness. In addition to enforcement and equipment seizures, officers took the opportunity to educate motorists on the legal requirements for vehicle accessories, warning that continued non-compliance would lead to prosecution. Several arrests have already been made as part of this intensified effort to bring order back to the highways. This regional exercise is part of a broader, nationwide campaign by the Ghana Police Service to restore discipline on the roads. The service has signaled that these operations will not be isolated incidents but will continue across all regions to ensure total compliance with traffic laws. Motorists are strongly urged to voluntarily remove any unauthorized devices from their vehicles immediately to avoid the risk of vehicle impoundment or arrest. As the enforcement continues, the police have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a zero-tolerance policy toward traffic violations to enhance safety for all citizens.

Some of the suspects
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Ghana Police Dismantle Drug Distribution Network Targeting Kumasi University Students; 44 Suspects Arrested

The Ghana Police Service has successfully dismantled a sophisticated drug distribution network in the Kumasi Metropolis, arresting 44 suspects during a three-day intensive operation. Conducted between July 3 and July 5, 2026, the crackdown was led by the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) Special Operations Team in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command. The operation specifically targeted known drug hotspots and crime-prone areas, including Emena New Site and Ash Town, following intelligence that the syndicate was primarily focused on selling narcotics to university students in the region. Among the 41 men and three women apprehended, police identified several key figures allegedly responsible for manufacturing unique narcotic products. One suspect, Emmanuel Duah, is accused of producing cannabis-infused confectioneries, popularly known as “Wee Toffee,” while another, Richard Boateng, was arrested for allegedly manufacturing cannabis-infused alcoholic beverages. These specialized products are a significant concern for law enforcement, as their resemblance to everyday snacks and drinks makes them difficult to detect and particularly dangerous to the student population. During the raids, police recovered a substantial amount of evidence, including 200 sachets of various tramadol dosages, significant quantities of cannabis, and drug-infused edibles. Additionally, several illegal gambling machines were seized from the targeted locations. All recovered items are currently undergoing forensic examination to support the ongoing prosecution. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Godwin Ahianyo emphasized that the operation is part of a broader strategy to eliminate drug supply chains feeding educational institutions and to improve overall public safety in the Ashanti Region. The 44 suspects are currently in custody and are assisting the police with further investigations. While this operation has successfully disrupted a major supply line, authorities have stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend additional accomplices who remain at large. The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring illicit drug trafficking and has called for continued public cooperation and vigilance to help safeguard university communities from the rising threat of narcotic abuse.

Mary Barek Apprehended in 13kg Lagos Cocaine Bust as GTA Unveils National ‘Blue Ghana’ Beach Clean-Up Strategy
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Mary Barek Apprehended in 13kg Lagos Cocaine Bust as GTA Unveils National ‘Blue Ghana’ Beach Clean-Up Strategy

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended 67-year-old Nigerian-British national Mary Barek at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos for attempting to smuggle 13 kilograms of cocaine. The suspect was intercepted on June 28 while preparing to board a Virgin Atlantic flight to London. Authorities discovered the narcotics, packaged into 31 bundles, ingeniously concealed within fake plantain peels inside her luggage. Ms. Barek has reportedly admitted ownership of the drugs. This arrest coincides with a broader crackdown by the NDLEA, which includes the dismantling of a trafficking syndicate linked to cocaine exports to Malaysia and the arrest of a PhD student suspected of leading a drug ring. Closer to home, the Tema West Municipal Assembly (TWMA) has intensified its own anti-drug advocacy ahead of the Homowo Festival celebrations in Nungua. Municipal Chief Executive Ludwig Teye Totimeh urged the youth to refrain from drug abuse and maintain peace during the festivities, which celebrate the triumph over famine. While presenting food items to traditional authorities, Mr. Totimeh emphasized the role of the youth in Ghana’s future development, calling for exemplary behavior as they prepare for leadership. This local push for social order mirrors the regional efforts to curb illicit activities and preserve cultural integrity during major heritage events. On the international stage, maritime and royal developments have drawn significant attention. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an armed attack on a cargo freighter in the Red Sea, approximately 30 nautical miles southwest of al-Hodeidah, Yemen. The incident, currently under investigation, occurs amid heightened tensions involving the Iranian-backed Houthi militia, who have targeted several vessels in the region since 2023. Simultaneously, Prince Harry arrived in London for a five-day solo visit. His arrival has been marked by controversy as his wife, Meghan, and their children were reportedly denied police protection, leaving the status of a potential meeting with King Charles uncertain. Addressing environmental concerns, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has launched 'The Blue Ghana Initiative: Protecting Our Beaches, Preserving Our Future.' This nationwide campaign, spearheaded by CEO Maame Efua Houadjeto, aims to tackle the plastic pollution and waste management issues that have recently plagued Accra’s coastline following heavy flooding. The initiative seeks to foster collaboration between beverage manufacturers, community groups, and the public to ensure the sustainability of Ghana’s marine ecosystems and tourism assets. Through the newly established Blue Ghana Foundation, the GTA plans to provide ongoing support for coastal protection and environmental education, ensuring that the country’s natural beauty is preserved for future generations.