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.

Five Dead and Dozens Injured in Separate Road Crashes in Ashanti and Volta Regions
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Five Dead and Dozens Injured in Separate Road Crashes in Ashanti and Volta Regions

At least five people have lost their lives and over 40 others have sustained various degrees of injury following two separate major road accidents in the Ashanti and Volta regions. Both incidents, which occurred on June 21, involved passenger buses, highlighting the ongoing challenges of road safety on Ghana’s major highways. In the Volta Region, a Metro Mass Transit bus plunged into a ditch, while in the Ashanti Region, a collision between a bus and a heavy-duty truck resulted in significant casualties and extensive emergency response efforts. The accident in the Volta Region occurred on the Peki stretch and involved a Metro Mass Transit (MMT) bus traveling from Accra to Dambai. The bus, carrying 28 passengers including the driver, reportedly veered off the road and fell into a ditch. Tragically, four people were confirmed dead at the scene. Among the fatalities were two pregnant women, reported to be five and six months pregnant respectively. Emergency responders have since transported the survivors to medical facilities, where at least two victims remain in critical condition while others are receiving treatment for various injuries. Simultaneously, in the Ashanti Region, a fatal collision occurred near the SDA Hospital in Offinso Namong. This incident involved a KIA Grandbird bus and a HOWO articulator truck. According to reports from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), which led the rescue operations, the crash occurred at approximately 5:19 AM. The impact of the collision resulted in one confirmed death and left 31 other passengers with injuries of varying severity. The victims were quickly rushed to the Offinso SDA Hospital for emergency medical attention, while fire officers worked to clear the wreckage and restore the flow of traffic on the busy stretch. Authorities in both regions have launched formal investigations to determine the exact causes of these tragic events. While the specific triggers for the Peki plunge and the Offinso collision are yet to be finalized by the Motor Transport and Traffic Directorate (MTTD), these accidents underscore the critical need for enhanced vigilance and stricter adherence to road safety protocols. As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, including the expectant mothers in the Volta Region, the public is once again reminded of the devastating human toll of road traffic accidents and the urgent need for improved driver safety measures.

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John Dramani Mahama Honors Fatherhood, Urging Ghanaian Men to "Build Giants" for the Nation's Future

Former President John Dramani Mahama has extended a heartfelt tribute to fathers across Ghana and the global community on the occasion of Father’s Day. In a stirring message, the former leader called on men to embrace their pivotal roles in both the domestic and public spheres, emphasizing that the strength of the nation rests significantly on the foundation laid by dedicated fathers. His address centered on the theme of legacy, urging current generations of men to remain steadfast in their commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and responsible citizens. Shared primarily via his social media platforms, Mahama’s message featured the evocative call to "continue to build giants." He articulated that fatherhood extends beyond mere biological connection, encompassing the responsibility of molding innovators who can navigate the complexities of the modern world. By framing fatherhood as a cornerstone of nation-building, the former President highlighted the sacrifices and dedication required in family life, noting that the guidance provided by fathers is essential for the development of the youth and the overall progress of the state. Beyond the former President's message, the day was marked by a wide array of activities across Ghana as families and communities took the time to express gratitude for the guidance of father figures. From special church services dedicated to the men in the congregation to intimate family gatherings and a surge of tributes on social media, the national sentiment mirrored the call for appreciation and respect. These celebrations served as a reminder of the critical influence that fathers and male role models exert in shaping the moral and social fabric of Ghanaian society, reinforcing a collective commitment to supporting those who mentor the next generation.

IGP Deploys Special Operations Support Team to Nkwanta Following Violent Attacks and Three Deaths
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IGP Deploys Special Operations Support Team to Nkwanta Following Violent Attacks and Three Deaths

In response to a surge in violent incidents within the Nkwanta municipality of the Oti Region, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ordered the immediate deployment of a Special Operations Support Team. This decisive action, announced on June 20, 2026, follows a series of deadly attacks that have resulted in at least three confirmed fatalities and multiple injuries. The primary objective of the elite unit is to restore calm to the area, enhance public safety, and prevent further escalations of violence that have plagued the community in recent days. The deployment comes amid growing concerns over security in the region, where recent clashes have disrupted daily life and spread fear among residents. By sending specialized personnel, the Ghana Police Service aims to bolster the existing security framework and provide a more robust presence on the ground. The Inspector-General has assured the people of Nkwanta that the police are fully committed to protecting both lives and property, emphasizing that every necessary resource will be utilized to maintain law and order during this volatile period. Beyond the physical presence of the Special Operations Support Team, the police administration is calling for active community participation to bring the perpetrators to justice. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and have appealed for credible information that could aid ongoing investigations into the root causes of the attacks. As the security forces work to stabilize the situation, the focus remains on ensuring a long-term resolution to the conflicts and safeguarding the peace for all citizens in the Oti Region.

Police Probe Death of Kofi Obed Following Alleged Attempted Attack on Continuation Church in Sefwi Asafo
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Police Probe Death of Kofi Obed Following Alleged Attempted Attack on Continuation Church in Sefwi Asafo

Police in the Western North Region have launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a young man, identified as Kofi Obed, whose body was discovered by a roadside near Sefwi Asafo in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality. The incident, which occurred on June 20, 2023, has sparked concerns in the local community. Obed, a resident of Sefwi Afere in the Bodi District believed to be in his late 20s, was found motionless shortly after he was reportedly involved in a confrontation at a local place of worship. According to preliminary reports, the deceased was allegedly part of a group that attempted to attack members of the Continuation Church earlier that morning. Following the attempted assault, Obed was apprehended by individuals at the scene. While the intention was reportedly to hand him over to the police, he was later found unresponsive near the roadside. The sequence of events between his apprehension and the discovery of his body remains the subject of intense police scrutiny as investigators work to determine if foul play was involved. The body of the deceased has been transported to the St John of God Hospital Mortuary for preservation and a pending autopsy to establish the exact cause of death. Regional police are currently managing two distinct but related inquiries: one focusing on the reported attempted attack on the church congregation and the other on the circumstances surrounding Obed's death. Authorities have called for patience as they gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the events of that morning, ensuring that justice is served for all parties involved.

NADMO Issues 14-Day Evacuation Order for Dilapidated Buildings in Central Region Amid Rising Rain Risks
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NADMO Issues 14-Day Evacuation Order for Dilapidated Buildings in Central Region Amid Rising Rain Risks

The Central Regional Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued a final 14-day ultimatum to occupants and owners of structurally compromised buildings to evacuate. This directive comes in response to the heightening risks of building collapses as the rainy season intensifies across the region. NADMO warned that the order is a critical measure aimed at safeguarding lives and preventing further tragedies following recent structural failures in the area, including a deadly collapse in Cape Coast. The directive requires all residents and businesses within identified unsafe structures to vacate the premises before the deadline to avoid potential fatalities and property loss. According to the official directive, all business activities and residential occupancy in structures identified as unsafe must cease immediately. NADMO has emphasized that any building remaining occupied after the two-week deadline will face enforced demolition. Crucially, the costs associated with such demolitions will be borne by the property owners themselves. This initiative is being carried out as a collaborative effort involving local government authorities and security agencies to ensure strict compliance with safety standards and regional building regulations. The agency noted that these measures are necessary to prevent the repeat of recent disasters where structural integrity was compromised by heavy downpours. The urgency of this evacuation order is underscored by the imminent dangers posed by the approaching peak of the rainy season. The regional directorate noted that persistent rains have further weakened the foundations and walls of many older or poorly maintained structures, rendering them hazardous to the public. By proactively identifying and marking these hazards, NADMO seeks to mitigate the impact of disaster before more lives are lost. The organisation stressed that public safety is the primary driver behind these enforcement actions, as structural failures often occur without warning during heavy storms. Beyond the evacuation mandate, NADMO is calling on the general public to play an active role in community safety. Residents are encouraged to report visible signs of structural distress—such as large cracks, leaning walls, or crumbling foundations—to local authorities for immediate technical assessment and intervention. This move is part of a broader strategy to foster a culture of disaster prevention and structural integrity within the Central Region. As the deadline approaches, NADMO remains committed to monitoring the situation and ensuring that all hazardous buildings are either fortified or removed to protect the citizenry.

GMet Issues Nationwide Alert for Persistent Rainfall and Thunderstorms Over 24-Hour Period
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GMet Issues Nationwide Alert for Persistent Rainfall and Thunderstorms Over 24-Hour Period

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a comprehensive weather advisory predicting a 24-hour period of persistent cloudy conditions and intermittent rainfall across the country. According to the impact-based forecast released on June 21, 2023, these weather patterns are expected to be most intense in southern Ghana, where thunderstorms are highly likely to develop. The agency noted that rain-bearing clouds are currently forming, which will sustain the wet conditions through the evening and into the night.\n\nThe forecast identifies moderate rainfall risks specifically within the coastal, forest, and transition zones. Residents in these areas should prepare for potential intense downpours that could lead to localized flooding. Despite the widespread rain, the northern sector of Ghana is predicted to remain the warmest part of the country. Temperature projections for the period indicate maximums ranging from 26°C to 29°C, with minimum temperatures expected to hover between 21°C and 24°C.\n\nIn light of these conditions, GMet has issued critical safety warnings for the public. Residents living in flood-prone communities are strongly advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect life and property. Additionally, motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and reduce speeds when driving, as heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to significantly impair visibility on major roads and highways. These measures are essential as the nation navigates the peak of the current weather system.

Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I Installed as Kristo Asafo Leader Amidst Gunfire Incident and Arrests
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Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I Installed as Kristo Asafo Leader Amidst Gunfire Incident and Arrests

On June 21, 2026, the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana officially installed Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I as its new leader, succeeding his late father, Apostle Emeritus Kwadwo Safo Kantanka. The transition, intended to mark a new chapter for the mission, was shadowed by a violent confrontation at a residence in Kwabenya involving former Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo. The incident resulted in gunfire, injuries, and the subsequent arrest of six private security guards by the Ghana Police Service, highlighting significant internal friction within the organization. The installation of Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I was announced through the mission's official channels, featuring celebrations from church members who expressed hopes for divine guidance and the continuation of the founder's technological and spiritual legacy. However, the leadership transition appears to be legally contested, with reports indicating a court injunction was filed against the installation process. Despite these legal hurdles, the mission proceeded with the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the vision established by Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka. The confrontation involving Sarah Adwoa Safo occurred when the former MP was reportedly denied entry to a ceremony at the residence of Mr. Tamakloe Safo Jehoshaphat. According to police reports, security personnel discharged firearms during the ensuing altercation. Adwoa Safo's vehicle sustained multiple gunshot marks, and she was hospitalized in stable condition after receiving injuries, with witnesses claiming a bullet grazed her neck. In the aftermath, the Ghana Police Service conducted a search of the scene, recovering five pump-action guns, a Taurus pistol, and communication equipment used by the detained guards. In a conflicting account, the leadership of the Kristo Asafo Mission has refuted claims that Ms. Safo was shot, labeling such reports as false social media rumors. Church lawyer Nana Kofi Kantanka stated that the former MP forced her vehicle through the entrance gates, causing property damage and creating a safety risk for attendees. The church maintains that security intervention was a necessary response to the breach and has called for a full investigation, urging the public to rely on verified information rather than speculation regarding the motives of those involved. This convergence of a major leadership milestone and high-profile violence underscores deep-seated succession disputes following the death of the mission's founder. While Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I begins his tenure, the ongoing police investigation and the unresolved legal challenges suggest a period of instability for the Kristo Asafo Mission. Authorities are continuing their efforts to identify all individuals involved in the shooting as the church and the public await further clarity on the health of the former MP and the ultimate resolution of the leadership conflict.

Tragic Building Collapse in Cape Coast Claims Lives of Two Sisters Following Heavy Rainfall
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Tragic Building Collapse in Cape Coast Claims Lives of Two Sisters Following Heavy Rainfall

A tragic building collapse in the Gyagyaano community of Cape Coast has resulted in the deaths of two sisters, following a period of intense rainfall in the Central Region. The victims, identified as 12-year-old Anastasia Abakah and 40-year-old Adwoa Baduwa, were among four people trapped when their single-room structure gave way in the early hours of Sunday, June 21. While emergency responders managed to extricate all occupants from the rubble, the two sisters unfortunately succumbed to their injuries after being rushed to the hospital. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reported receiving a distress call at approximately 04:54 am. Personnel arrived promptly at the scene and launched a joint rescue operation with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO). Within about an hour, the teams successfully rescued a couple who were also trapped inside the building. While the couple sustained various degrees of injury and are receiving treatment at the Ewim Polyclinic, the rescue of the two sisters ended in heartbreak as they were later confirmed dead by medical authorities. Preliminary investigations by the GNFS suggest that the building's structural integrity had been severely compromised by the ongoing heavy rains, leading to its sudden collapse. The incident has sparked significant concern among local residents regarding the safety of older residential properties in the area. Authorities have noted that many structures in the Gyagyaano enclave are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions, highlighting an urgent need for structural assessments to prevent further loss of life during the current rainy season. In the wake of the disaster, the Ghana National Fire Service and NADMO have issued a stern advisory to the public, particularly those living in dilapidated or weakened buildings. Residents are being urged to proactively seek professional assessments of their homes and to evacuate immediately if any signs of structural failure are detected. As the rainy season continues, emergency services remain on high alert and have called on the community to report high-risk buildings to local authorities to facilitate timely interventions.

Cape Coast Tragedy: Toddler Killed and Three Injured as Heavy Rains Trigger Devastating Mudslide in Tantri
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Cape Coast Tragedy: Toddler Killed and Three Injured as Heavy Rains Trigger Devastating Mudslide in Tantri

A devastating mudslide in the Tantri area of Cape Coast has claimed the life of a 20-month-old toddler and left three women seriously injured. The incident occurred on a Friday afternoon following several hours of relentless rainfall that caused a nearby hillside to collapse. The resulting debris buried three residential structures, trapping the occupants beneath mud and rubble. Hanson Mensah, the young victim, was tragically pronounced dead upon arrival at the Ewim Polyclinic, while the surviving victims were rushed for emergency medical attention. Among the survivors are 43-year-old Elizabeth Kyerede, 25-year-old Maame Badua, and 17-year-old Ella, who sustained a critical head injury and was subsequently transferred to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for specialized care. According to Richard Joachim, a spokesperson and head of the affected family, the tragedy was unprecedented, noting that the victims had huddled together in a single room to seek shelter from the storm when the hillside gave way. Local residents were the first to respond to the collapse, digging through the debris to rescue the trapped individuals before personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service arrived to secure the scene. The mudslide was part of a broader weather crisis that gripped Cape Coast, with prolonged downpours leading to widespread flooding across the metropolitan area. Major transport routes were submerged, leaving commuters stranded and disrupting business activities. The flooding also significantly impacted the University of Cape Coast and surrounding residential communities, highlighting the city's ongoing struggle with urban flooding. In response to the weather conditions, authorities issued safety advisories urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel as the risk of further landslides and flooding persisted. Following the disaster, the Cape Coast Metropolitan Chief Executive and other local officials visited the bereaved family to offer condolences and assess the extent of the damage. The incident has reignited urgent calls from the community for government intervention to improve local infrastructure. Residents and community leaders are emphasizing the need for modernized drainage systems and more effective waste management practices to prevent similar disasters in the future. As the rainy season continues, this tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the critical need for resilient urban planning in flood-prone regions.

Tragic Multi-Vehicle Crash in Kumasi Leaves Motorcyclist in Coma and Several Others Injured
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Tragic Multi-Vehicle Crash in Kumasi Leaves Motorcyclist in Coma and Several Others Injured

A severe multi-vehicle accident in the Old Tafo Municipality of the Ashanti Region has left several people with various degrees of injury and one person in critical condition. The incident, which occurred in the Adabraka neighborhood of Kumasi, involved a high-powered V8 vehicle that reportedly lost control and collided with multiple other vehicles and road users. The sheer force of the collision caused significant damage to the vehicles involved, leading to immediate panic among commuters and residents in the busy municipality. Witnesses at the scene reported that the V8 vehicle struck several cars and a motorcycle during the sequence of events. The impact was so severe that a motorcyclist involved in the crash fell into a coma immediately following the collision. Emergency responders and bystanders worked quickly to assist the victims, many of whom sustained significant physical trauma as a result of the high-energy impact characteristic of heavy-vehicle collisions. The injured were rushed to nearby medical facilities for urgent stabilization and treatment. The Old Tafo Municipality is a bustling area within the Kumasi metropolis, and accidents of this nature highlight ongoing concerns regarding road safety and speed management in densely populated urban zones. While the exact cause of the crash is yet to be officially confirmed, local authorities are expected to launch a full investigation to determine if mechanical failure, speeding, or driver error played a role in the devastating event. Such incidents often bring traffic to a standstill, further complicating emergency response efforts in the region. As of the latest reports, the injured parties continue to receive medical attention, with the most critical victim remaining under intensive care. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of road users, particularly motorcyclists, in the face of high-speed vehicular accidents. Residents and commuters in the Ashanti Region continue to call for increased traffic enforcement and improved safety measures to prevent such occurrences on Kumasi's busy thoroughfares.

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Celestine Donkor Advocates for Active Fatherhood at Convergence of Mothers Event

Ghanaian gospel musician and author Celestine Donkor has issued a passionate call for fathers to take a more proactive role in the upbringing of their children. Speaking at the second edition of the 'Convergence of Mothers' event, hosted by prominent media personality MzGee, Donkor emphasized that parenting is a shared responsibility that requires the dedicated presence of both mother and father to ensure a child's well-being and success. Her remarks come at a time when societal expectations of gender roles in the home are being increasingly re-evaluated across the country. Sharing personal insights into her own family life, Donkor praised her husband for his significant contributions to the raising of their daughters. She attributed much of their children’s positive growth to his active involvement and hands-on approach, demonstrating how a supportive partner can alleviate the pressures often placed exclusively on mothers. By highlighting her own household's dynamic, she provided a tangible example of how collaborative parenting can lead to a more harmonious family environment. The 'Convergence of Mothers' platform, where these discussions took place, serves as a vital forum for Ghanaian women to share experiences and strategies for managing the complexities of modern motherhood. Donkor’s advocacy during the session underscored the belief that a father's influence is irreplaceable, offering a distinct form of emotional and social support. She encouraged women to foster environments where fathers feel empowered to participate fully in domestic life, moving away from traditional narratives that sideline men in the nursery and household. Ultimately, Donkor’s message highlights a broader shift toward egalitarian parenting in Ghana. By encouraging fathers to be more involved, she envisions a future where children benefit from a diverse range of parental guidance and affection. The event concluded with a call for more open dialogue within families to define roles that prioritize the child's development, reinforcing the idea that the strength of the Ghanaian community begins with the strength and unity of the home.

Nigeria Customs Service Seizes 1.8 Tonnes of Cannabis and Halts Distribution of Expired Pharmaceuticals
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Nigeria Customs Service Seizes 1.8 Tonnes of Cannabis and Halts Distribution of Expired Pharmaceuticals

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully intercepted a massive haul of illicit substances, including 1.8 tonnes of Cannabis sativa and a significant quantity of expired pharmaceutical products. This major enforcement operation, carried out in strategic coordination with other national security agencies, represents a significant victory for regional border security and public health. Chief Superintendent Isah Sulaiman announced the seizure, noting that the timely intervention prevented these dangerous goods from entering the local supply chain where they could have caused irreparable harm to citizens. The seizure of 1.8 tonnes of cannabis underscores the persistent challenges faced by West African nations in combating the trans-border trade of narcotics. Chief Superintendent Sulaiman emphasized that the operation was the result of high-level intelligence gathering and seamless collaboration between the Customs Service and its sister security agencies. By disrupting the distribution of such a large quantity of drugs, the NCS has dealt a blow to the financial networks of criminal syndicates that rely on the illegal drug trade to fund other illicit activities. The agency has reiterated its stance that the Nigerian borders will not be used as a transit or destination point for harmful substances. Beyond the narcotics bust, the interception of expired pharmaceutical products highlights a growing concern regarding substandard and falsified medicines in the region. Expired drugs, which lose their efficacy and can become toxic over time, represent a silent threat to public health. The Nigeria Customs Service's proactive approach in identifying and seizing these products before they could be rebranded or sold to unsuspecting patients is a critical step in sanitizing the country's drug markets. This aspect of the operation aligns with the broader mandate of protecting the economy and the lives of Nigerians from the hazards of unregulated trade. As the NCS prepares to hand over the confiscated items to the appropriate regulatory bodies for further action, the operation serves as a reminder of the importance of inter-agency cooperation. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) are expected to take custody of the cannabis and expired drugs, respectively, for formal investigation and destruction. This successful operation sets a precedent for continued vigilance at Nigeria's entry points, signaling to traffickers that the authorities remain committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring national security.