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The latest Ghana politics coverage in one place: government and parliament, elections, policy, and the people shaping national life. Stories are curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and refreshed through the day, newest first.

See the areas that will be affected by ECG's planned maintenance on Tuesday, March 24, 2026
politics|

Institutional Crisis and Governance Under Fire: From Korle Bu’s Emergency Strain to Public Financial Compliance Failures

Ghana’s public sector is facing a wave of scrutiny as a deepening crisis at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) and a critical report on Public Financial Management (PFM) highlight systemic failures across multiple state institutions. In late March 2026, the Korle Bu Doctors’ Association (KODA) and emergency medicine residents raised an alarm over 'dangerous' conditions at the Accident and Emergency Centre, where patients are frequently treated on floors and in chairs. While hospital management and the Ministry of Health recently showcased the procurement of 200 new beds, healthcare professionals have dismissed these measures as superficial. They argue that the root cause is a 'broken' national referral system that forces lower-level hospitals to overwhelm the nation's premier teaching facility, further exacerbated by allegations that a recent ministerial visit was 'staged' to mask the daily reality of the ward. Adding to the narrative of institutional underperformance, the Ministry of Finance’s inaugural PFM Compliance League Table has ranked several key entities, including the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and Korle Bu itself, among the 'Least Compliant' in managing public funds. The assessment of 101 state institutions revealed significant gaps in adherence to the PFM Act of 2016, specifically targeting the Ghana National Fire Service and NADMO for poor financial practices. In contrast, the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) were among the few rated as 'Compliant,' highlighting a stark disparity in administrative discipline across the security and social sectors. Simultaneously, the state is intensifying its regulatory enforcement and infrastructure demands. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), in collaboration with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), has announced a nationwide crackdown on vehicles using expired 2025 DV plates and DP stickers beginning March 24, 2026. This move toward stricter compliance is mirrored by the National Identification Authority’s (NIA) insistence that the Ghana Card remains a 'non-negotiable' requirement for SIM registration to ensure a secure identity infrastructure. However, as the government pushes for digital and regulatory order, it faces mounting pressure on the ground; in the Garu District, a 40% spike in pneumonia cases has been linked to dusty, incomplete road projects, prompting urgent calls for the government to settle arrears with contractors and prioritize public health. In the legislative sphere, there is a growing consensus on the need for modernization to address these multifaceted challenges. During the inaugural meeting of the Network of Parliamentary Training Institutes in Accra, Minority and Majority leaders called for a comprehensive overhaul of capacity-building programs for Members of Parliament, focusing on digital governance and climate policy. As the nation approaches a period of heightened social and political tension—marked by Supreme Court challenges over the renaming of Kotoka International Airport and public outcry regarding post-retirement appointments—the prevailing sentiment among stakeholders is a demand for genuine 'political will' to implement systemic reforms rather than relying on short-term fixes.

Ghana’s Political Landscape Shifts: NDC Surges in Polls as Economic Challenges and Internal NPP Dynamics Intensify
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Ghana’s Political Landscape Shifts: NDC Surges in Polls as Economic Challenges and Internal NPP Dynamics Intensify

Recent tracking polls from March 2026 indicate a significant shift in Ghana’s political landscape, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) gaining substantial ground over the New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to Global Info Analytics, the NDC’s support has climbed to 46%, while the NPP has seen a decline to 25%. This shift is particularly pronounced in critical swing regions like Greater Accra, where the NDC enjoys 58% support compared to the NPP’s 22%. Observers and academics, including Prof. Ezekiel Nortey of the University of Ghana, have described these findings as a wake-up call, urging the NPP to confront internal divisions, perceptions of corruption, and a growing loss of trust among the electorate. Linking the political shift to economic realities, former Finance Minister Seth Terkper has highlighted how debt distress and IMF program restrictions inherited by the current administration have hampered job creation. Terkper noted that the government was forced to prioritize economic stabilization over real-sector investments after being shut out of bond markets due to debt defaults. This economic strain is mirrored in the labor sector, where the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) reported that strikes cost the nation GHC 1.47 billion in 2024 and GHC 635 million in 2025. FWSC CEO Dr. George Smith Graham emphasized the need for an Independent Emoluments Commission to address pay disparities within the Single Spine Pay Structure that continue to trigger industrial actions. Internal NPP dynamics are also in flux as the party prepares for its chairmanship race. Yaw Acheampong Boafo, former President of the Ghana Bar Association, has publicly backed candidates like Boakye Agyarko and Paul Afoko, stressing the importance of balancing party leadership with the flagbearer to prevent internal weakening. Amidst this competition, local development remains a key talking point; the Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu II, recently commended the previous Akufo-Addo administration for projects like Agenda 111 while calling on President Mahama to ensure their completion. However, partisan friction remains high, exemplified by NPP communicator Ellen Ama Daaku’s recent public claims that government-led reductions in cocoa prices have directly impacted her personal financial stability. Broadening the narrative, veteran journalist and Pan-Africanist Kwesi Pratt Jnr has provided historical context to Ghana’s political evolution, revealing new details about the 1966 overthrow of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Pratt argued that the coup was motivated more by Nkrumah’s efforts to foster African political consciousness than by accusations of dictatorship. Reflecting on his own 18 imprisonments for his activism, Pratt’s insights serve as a reminder of the long-standing tensions between governance and civil liberties in Ghana. As the country moves toward the next electoral cycle, the combination of polling data, economic recovery efforts, and historical reflections underscores a pivotal moment for both major political parties.

Ghana’s Governance Landscape: Balancing Infrastructure Development, Institutional Accountability, and Social Cohesion
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Ghana’s Governance Landscape: Balancing Infrastructure Development, Institutional Accountability, and Social Cohesion

Ghana’s political and developmental landscape is currently defined by a dual focus on expanding physical infrastructure and addressing systemic irregularities within state institutions. In the Ketu North Municipality, Chief Executive Martin Amenaki has reported significant progress on road projects, with some reaching 80% completion, a move credited to initiatives by former President John Dramani Mahama. This stands in contrast to the Garu District, where residents are urgently petitioning the government to complete long-overdue road networks essential for agricultural transport. Meanwhile, Ransford Antwi, an independent candidate for Sunyani East, has criticized the relocation of a new airport from Sunyani to Nsoatre, urging the government to prioritize the Bono Regional capital’s development. These contemporary projects often draw comparisons to the vision of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, whose abandoned silos in Ho remain symbolic of the need for governance continuity and long-term accountability in national planning. Institutional transparency has emerged as a critical concern, particularly following revelations from the National Communications Authority (NCA). Director-General Rev. Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko recently exposed serious anomalies in the Ghana Card database, where identical PINs were found associated with different photographs, suggesting potential fraud. Parallel to these identity concerns, the Minority caucus in Parliament is demanding that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) release a report on the rapid depletion of prepaid units, alleging that citizens were overcharged by approximately 1.5 billion Ghana Cedis in late 2025. This focus on utility and data integrity coincides with international energy crises, such as the total collapse of Cuba’s national electrical grid, which has left over 10 million people in darkness and highlighted the global vulnerability of aging energy infrastructure. In the health and employment sectors, the government is taking steps to alleviate pressure on public services. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has announced the introduction of 24-hour Out-Patient Department (OPD) services at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital to end the "no bed syndrome" and improve patient flow. To support broader administrative needs, the Ministry of Finance is set to clear the recruitment of 450 new staff for the National Sports Authority (NSA), targeting vacancies in technical and coaching roles. In North Tongu, MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced the commissioning of new schools and mosques, further emphasizing the intersection of political leadership and community-specific infrastructure development. Social and religious milestones have also served as platforms for leaders to advocate for national discipline and youth empowerment. During Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Wa and other regions, leaders including Upper West Regional Minister Charles Luanga and ACP Kofi Sarpong called for a united front against youth drug abuse and reckless behavior. Educational reforms were also a central theme, with calls for better equity and the recruitment of Arabic teachers. This spirit of community development was echoed in Ketu North, where a new apprenticeship program was launched to provide vocational training and equipment to local youth. Collectively, these developments reflect a nation striving to reconcile its historical aspirations with the practical demands of modern governance, infrastructure, and social stability.

Regional Security and State Accountability: Ibrahim Mahama Probe and Ghana-Nigeria Rescue Operations
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Regional Security and State Accountability: Ibrahim Mahama Probe and Ghana-Nigeria Rescue Operations

Ghanaian authorities are currently navigating a series of high-profile security and human rights challenges, highlighted by a formal investigation into the alleged assault of celebrated visual artist Ibrahim Mahama and the successful rescue of forty-four citizens from a fraudulent recruitment syndicate in Nigeria. On March 21, 2026, the Ghana Police Service announced an inquiry into an encounter in Tamale where Mahama claims he was brutally assaulted by officers after attempting to record police traffic maneuvers during Eid festivities. While the artist asserts that members of the 'Black Maria' Special Operations Team were involved and caused him physical injuries, including a broken tooth, the Northern Regional Police Command has denied the involvement of that specific unit, stating it was not active in the region at the time. The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has stepped in to oversee the investigation, aiming to resolve the conflicting accounts between the artist's testimony and the police's claims of 'provocative traffic defiance.' Parallel to domestic policing concerns, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs successfully coordinated the repatriation of forty-four Ghanaians on March 20, 2026, following a joint operation with Nigerian security forces. These individuals had been lured to Nigeria by a fraudulent recruitment network using social media and informal channels, only to face harsh conditions and exploitation. This operation underscores the growing necessity for regional cooperation in dismantling human trafficking syndicates. The broader security climate in Nigeria remains volatile, as evidenced by recent reports of bandits abducting worshippers from a church in Kwara State and widespread outrage following the assault of women during the 'Alue-Do' festival in Ozoro, Delta State. These incidents have prompted Ghanaian and Nigerian authorities to emphasize the importance of community vigilance and cross-border intelligence sharing. Within Ghana, the tension between law enforcement and the public has also manifested in the transportation sector. On March 20, 2026, a group of motorcyclists in Kaneshie assaulted Sergeant Emmanuel Agbugbla Teye after he intercepted a rider traveling against traffic. This act of violence has been condemned by the police as a threat to national security, leading to a manhunt for the assailants. To address these systemic issues, the Commercial National Motor Riders Union (CNMRU) has begun partnering with the Motor Traffic and Transport Directorate (MTTD) in municipalities like Kpone Katamanso. This initiative follows the passage of the Road Traffic Amendment Bill 2025, which aimed to legitimize and regulate commercial motorcycle operations to reduce fatalities and build public trust in the sector. Collectively, these events represent a critical juncture for governance and the rule of law in West Africa. From the protection of high-profile cultural figures like Ibrahim Mahama to the rescue of vulnerable victims of trafficking and the regulation of the commercial transport sector, the state's ability to maintain order while respecting human rights is under intense scrutiny. Moving forward, the outcomes of the IGP’s investigation into the Tamale assault and the continued enforcement of road safety regulations will serve as benchmarks for accountability and the professionalization of law enforcement agencies in Ghana.

Mahama Leads Global Reparations Charge as New Polls Show Surge in NDC Support Amid NPP Struggles
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Mahama Leads Global Reparations Charge as New Polls Show Surge in NDC Support Amid NPP Struggles

President John Dramani Mahama is set to lead a high-level Ghanaian delegation to the United Nations for a landmark session on reparatory justice, a move that has gained significant international momentum. This diplomatic push, aimed at formally recognizing the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity, received a major boost following a public endorsement from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Speaking ahead of a scheduled UN General Assembly vote on March 25, 2026, President Lula aligned Brazil—home to the world’s largest population of African descent outside of Africa—with the initiative first proposed at the CELAC–Africa Summit. This coalition, which includes the African Union and CARICOM, seeks historical accountability and justice for the legacies of slavery rather than mere financial compensation. Back home, the political climate appears increasingly favorable for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the 2026 electoral cycle approaches. New data from Global InfoAnalytics, presented by pollster Mussa Dankwah, reveals a dramatic shift in voter sentiment. According to the March 2026 tracking polls, support for the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has plummeted to 25%, while the NDC has surged to 46% party identification. This decline is most pronounced in critical swing regions such as Greater Accra and Central, where NPP identification has dipped as low as 22% compared to the NDC's 58%. Dankwah described the environment as "hostile" for the NPP, attributing the trend to recent internal party challenges and broader economic concerns, urging the opposition to reflect on these data-driven insights to regain public trust. In tandem with the President’s international agenda, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has been strengthening bilateral ties with the United States. During recent high-level talks in Washington D.C., Ablakwa commended the U.S. State Department for implementing visa processing reforms that have significantly reduced wait times for Ghanaian applicants. Discussions also covered strategic collaborations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, trade under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) programs. However, the domestic front remains complex; while the government enjoys high polling, it faces internal pressure from grassroots supporters like the driver "Exdoe," who publicly criticized the NDC for post-election neglect, prompting National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah to call for patience regarding appointments. The President’s public image remains a focal point of national conversation, ranging from high-profile reconciliations to lighthearted public interactions. Evangelist Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Agradaa, recently made headlines by kneeling to publicly beg President Mahama for forgiveness regarding past derogatory remarks during a service at Prophet Opambour’s church. Furthermore, the President continues to face public pressure to extend his leadership; during a recent event, an elderly citizen humorously threatened legal action if Mahama did not contest for a third term. While the President acknowledged these sentiments with a smile, his immediate focus remains firmly on the upcoming March 25 UN vote, which stands as a potential turning point for Ghana’s global leadership on human rights and historical justice.

Ghana Overhauls Agricultural Strategy Amid Trade Disruptions and Growing Farmer Grievances
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Ghana Overhauls Agricultural Strategy Amid Trade Disruptions and Growing Farmer Grievances

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a significant shift in Ghana's agricultural policy, transitioning from subsidized to free fertilizer distribution for the upcoming farming season. This move, unveiled during the commissioning of a new Farmer Service Centre in Kwahu Afram Plains South, is intended to alleviate the financial burden on smallholder farmers following a period of food gluts and price volatility that resulted in substantial losses. The new centre is envisioned as a transformative hub, providing modern equipment, training, and market linkages to boost productivity and reduce post-harvest losses, an initiative that has received strong support from local youth groups looking for economic opportunities in the district. However, the agricultural sector faces immediate challenges from regional trade disruptions and historical policy shortcomings. Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness, recently attributed a severe tomato shortage to an over-reliance on imports, noting that Ghana typically imports 75% of its dry-season tomato supply from Burkina Faso. Following a recent export ban by Burkinabe authorities, the Ministry of Trade has begun diplomatic engagements to find a mutually beneficial solution. In tandem, the government is rolling out the 'Feed Ghana' and 'Feed the Industry' programs, which aim to cultivate 70,000 hectares through enhanced irrigation schemes to ensure domestic self-sufficiency and strengthen agro-processing. While these initiatives are being deployed, grassroots discontent remains high among cocoa producers. In Darso, located in Offinso North, cocoa farmers braved torrential rains to petition the Minority Caucus in Parliament regarding delayed payments and stagnant producer prices. Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh criticized the current management of the cocoa industry, calling for greater transparency from the Ghana Cocoa Board as farmers report they have not received payments since October. This pressure from the cocoa belt highlights a growing demand for accountability and immediate financial relief for rural workers who anchor the nation's economy. On a regional level, the push for sustainability is being met with calls for targeted infrastructure investment and environmental oversight. In Savelugu, MP Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz is rallying support for the restoration of the Libga Dam Cluster to empower over 5,000 women farmers facing water shortages. Simultaneously, the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) has warned that persistent poverty in the northern regions could lead to long-term national economic decline if not addressed through better district-level management. Furthermore, the National Association of Sand and Stone Workers and Tipper Truck Users (NASSWOTTU) is urging stricter compliance with the Minerals and Mining Act to prevent unregulated activities from further degrading essential farmlands. As Ghana navigates these complex agricultural and economic hurdles, the focus remains on balancing immediate relief measures with long-term structural changes. From securing regional trade agreements to investing in localized irrigation and ensuring fair compensation for cocoa farmers, the path forward requires a coordinated effort between the government and the private sector. The successful implementation of the '24-Hour Economy' strategy and agricultural value chain enhancements will be critical in stabilizing food prices and maintaining the country's economic trajectory in the face of external market shocks.

Trump Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum to Iran Amid Escalating US-Israeli Military Campaign
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Trump Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum to Iran Amid Escalating US-Israeli Military Campaign

Tensions in the Middle East have reached a critical juncture as President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran, threatening to "obliterate" the nation's power plants unless the Strait of Hormuz is reopened to international shipping. This escalation comes three weeks into a joint US-Israeli military campaign characterized by conflicting reports regarding its duration and objectives. While President Trump has publicly suggested the conflict is "winding down," the administration is simultaneously deploying additional ground forces, including a Marine expeditionary unit, and seeking $200 billion in emergency funding from Congress. The situation remains volatile following Iranian retaliatory threats against US energy infrastructure and reports of potential plans to seize Kharg Island, a vital hub for Iranian oil exports. The conflict has expanded beyond the immediate region, with Iran launching medium-range ballistic missiles at the joint UK-US military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. Although the missiles failed to hit their targets, the incident has strained diplomatic relations between Washington and London. President Trump criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for initially restricting the base's use for strikes against Iran, while UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper reaffirmed Britain's commitment to defensive support without entering a broader war. Simultaneously, Israel has conducted retaliatory strikes against targets in Iran and Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, reporting the elimination of several militants following rocket attacks on the Tel Aviv area. In the nuclear sector, Iran's Natanz facility was targeted in a fresh attack, though Iranian officials and the IAEA report no radioactive leaks. This follows previous efforts by US and Israeli forces to degrade Iran's nuclear capabilities. Amidst the military maneuvers, the US Treasury Department announced a temporary easing of sanctions on approximately 140 million barrels of Iranian oil currently stranded at sea. This measure, valid until April 19, aims to stabilize global energy prices which have surged due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized that while this allows for the offloading of existing transit supplies, it does not permit new production or purchases. As the 48-hour deadline approaches, the internal stability of the Iranian regime is also under scrutiny. The new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has urged national vigilance during the Nowruz festival following the death of the country's intelligence minister, though his own absence from public view has fueled speculation regarding his health. Meanwhile, security concerns have reached the UK mainland, where an Iranian man and a Romanian woman were charged after an attempted breach at HM Naval Base Clyde, the site of the UK's nuclear deterrent. With massive funding requests pending and military operations intensifying, the international community remains on high alert for a potential shift from targeted strikes to a prolonged regional conflict.

States sue the Trump administration to challenge policy requiring colleges to collect race data
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Ghana’s Political Landscape: Debates Over SIM Registration, National Identity Discrimination, and Resource Allocation Intensify

Ghana’s political discourse is currently dominated by a heated exchange between former Communications Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful and the current administration over the 2022–2023 SIM card registration exercise. Owusu-Ekuful has robustly defended the credibility of the initiative, which successfully linked nearly 30 million SIM cards to Ghana Cards, urging the government to build on prior achievements rather than engaging in "political erasure." This defense follows criticisms from President John Mahama and concerns raised by Charles Owiredu, Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Information and Communications Committee. Owiredu warned that despite government assurances, the financial burden of the new re-registration efforts might ultimately be passed on to consumers, particularly affecting those with basic mobile devices who may struggle with remote registration protocols. Simultaneously, concerns regarding national identity and inclusivity have taken center stage in Parliament. Alhaji Mohammed Baba Jamal, the NDC MP for Ayawaso East, has raised an alarm over the alleged systematic denial of national identification documents, such as Ghana Cards and passports, to residents of Zongo communities. Jamal argued that many citizens are being unfairly profiled as foreigners based on their names or ethnic backgrounds, a practice he warns could foster social division and violate fundamental rights. While he praised President Mahama for introducing an additional public holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr to promote interfaith harmony, he emphasized that true inclusivity must include the seamless recognition of citizenship for all diverse ethnic groups across the country. Institutional exclusion remains a critical point of contention, as the Ghana Youth Federation (GYF) and disability advocacy groups demand greater representation and funding. The GYF expressed alarm at the omission of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and the National Youth Authority (NYA) from the 2026 District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) allocation of GHS 8.7 billion, calling it a major policy oversight. Similarly, the Voices of Women and Children with Disabilities in Ghana (VOWACGhana) criticized the government for excluding women with disabilities from strategic leadership roles. Despite the government meeting the 30% female appointment threshold under the Affirmative Action Act, VOWACGhana pointed to the removal of a disabled female leader from the National Council on Persons with Disabilities as a significant setback for representation. On the security and administrative front, the government has completed the evacuation of Ghanaian citizens from Israel following the conflict there, a move confirmed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Domestically, the DVLA and Police are preparing to enforce a ban on outdated dealer plates starting March 24, while the Sɔfoase Yəfretete Royal Family of Wenchi has publicly refuted social media claims that their long-standing chieftaincy dispute has been resolved, asserting that the legal battle over the Wenchimanhene title remains active. These domestic developments occur against a backdrop of regional instability, highlighted by the Sultan of Sokoto's call for proactive military action against terrorism in Nigeria and continued concerns over foreign military dependence in C$te d’Ivoire.

Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Vice President. Photos: ESTHER ADJORKOR ADJEI
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Ghana Intensifies Governance Reforms with Performance-Linked Pay and Transparency Initiatives for State Institutions

The Ghanaian government has launched a series of aggressive transparency and performance-based reforms aimed at transforming state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public institutions into profitable, accountable entities. Leading this charge, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang announced at the 2026 SIGA Annual Stakeholders’ Conference that the government is considering a performance-linked remuneration framework. This policy would align the incomes of SOE managers with their actual performance, ending the controversial practice of paying bonuses to loss-making institutions. To support this shift, the Ministry of Finance has introduced a Public Financial Management (PFM) Compliance League Table. The initial findings reveal that only seven out of over 100 assessed institutions—including the Environmental Protection Authority and the Ministry of Energy—are highly compliant with the PFM Act, while the National Communications Authority was ranked as the least compliant. In tandem with financial reforms, the energy sector is undergoing a significant policy shift toward open governance. The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, announced that Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) will now be made public to end the culture of secrecy in power deals. This initiative includes a dedicated website for public access and proposed amendments to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission’s mandate. The move is designed to prevent the recurrence of opaque contracts, such as the agreement that previously resulted in a $140 million judgment debt against the state. This transparency drive is echoed at the regional level, where the Greater Accra Region has become the first to fully certify its district development plans for 2026–2029, and the Oti Regional Minister has vowed to personally inspect all construction projects before authorizing payments to ensure quality standards. Despite these internal efforts, governance experts and economic stakeholders warn that deeper structural issues remain. Professor Michael Kpessah-Whyte, Director-General of SIGA, and economist Professor Peter Quartey have called for urgent reforms in political financing, arguing that the reliance on private funding for elections often forces SOE leaders to reward political supporters rather than prioritize efficiency. Simultaneously, former Finance Minister Seth Terkper has critiqued the effectiveness of global financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank, arguing they were not originally designed to build resilience in African economies against external shocks. These concerns are underscored by local tensions, including protests by railway workers over 14 months of salary arrears and a leadership row at the Dambai College of Education. To ensure the longevity of these reforms, there is a growing call for a binding legal framework to align all political manifestos with Ghana’s 40-year national development plan. Advocacy from groups like the Global Africa Trade Advisory Chamber emphasizes the need for policy continuity across administrations to prevent project abandonment. Furthermore, the Catholic Relief Services recently held high-level dialogues in Tamale to strengthen civil-military cooperation, highlighting that sustainable development and transparency are inextricably linked to national security. As the government pushes for a whole-of-society approach to accountability, the success of these initiatives will depend on the strict enforcement of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and a collective shift toward long-term national goals over short-term political gains.

Ghana Navigates Burkina Faso Tomato Export Ban with Diplomatic Talks and Calls for National Emergency Strategy
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Ghana Navigates Burkina Faso Tomato Export Ban with Diplomatic Talks and Calls for National Emergency Strategy

The Government of Ghana is moving to resolve a significant trade disruption following a directive from Burkina Faso that suspended the export of fresh tomatoes, effective March 16, 2026. The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has initiated diplomatic engagements with Burkinabe authorities to understand the reasoning behind the ban and to find a mutually beneficial resolution. This suspension has raised immediate concerns among Ghanaian traders and consumers, as the country relies heavily on its neighbor for tomato supplies, particularly during the off-season. Government officials have urged stakeholders to remain calm while negotiations proceed to stabilize market prices and preserve long-standing trade relations. In response to the crisis, the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG) has called for the immediate activation of a National Tomato Emergency Strategy. CAG CEO Anthony Kofituo Morrison characterized the ban as a 'wake-up call' for Ghana to address its food security vulnerabilities. The Chamber is proposing a comprehensive seven-point plan, which includes the appointment of a National Strategy Director and the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee. Central to their proposal is a request for the government to allocate GH¢ 430 million in the 2026 Supplementary Budget to fund vital irrigation infrastructure, provide farmer support, and launch the 'Grow Ghana Agro-Corporate Partnership Framework' to attract private investment. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) has acknowledged the severity of the situation, with officials warning that the ban could lead to significant price hikes similar to past shortages. While the government is promoting initiatives such as 'Feed Ghana' and 'Feed the Industry' to boost local production, experts point out that the lack of consistent irrigation, adequate funding, and modern equipment remains a major hurdle. Plans are currently underway to establish farm service centers for improved seedlings and to fast-track the construction of a domestic tomato processing plant to reduce reliance on imports and stabilize the local value chain. Beyond the tomato trade, broader tensions have emerged in the agricultural sector, highlighted by recent demands from traders in the Dormaa Municipality. During a regional tour, Paramount Chief Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II appealed for an investigation into the destruction of over GH¢ 10 million worth of eggs exported to Burkina Faso. These combined events underscore the urgent need for a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural policy. As Ghana pushes for increased domestic yields and explores protective trade measures, the outcome of the current diplomatic talks with Burkina Faso will be critical in determining the immediate stability of the nation's food supply and the livelihoods of thousands of agribusiness workers.

Ghana’s Parliament Ratifies Landmark Lithium Mining Lease for Ewoyaa Project Amid Minority Opposition
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Ghana’s Parliament Ratifies Landmark Lithium Mining Lease for Ewoyaa Project Amid Minority Opposition

In a significant move to position Ghana within the global green energy supply chain, the Parliament of Ghana has officially ratified a 15-year mining lease agreement with Barari DV Ghana Limited. The deal authorizes large-scale lithium extraction at the Ewoyaa deposit in Mankessim, Central Region, covering an area of 42.63 square kilometers. The agreement comes after nearly three years of negotiations and is designed to capitalize on the surging global demand for lithium, a critical component in electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage systems. Under the terms of the lease, the Ghanaian government secured a 12% free carried interest in the project, alongside a sliding-scale royalty system starting at 12% linked to prevailing market prices. Additionally, the company is mandated to allocate 1% of its annual revenue to a community development fund and undertake feasibility studies for local infrastructure, including a mini-port and jetty. Despite the government's optimism regarding socio-economic benefits, the ratification faced stiff resistance from the Minority Caucus in Parliament. Critics of the deal have expressed concerns over the adequacy of revenue-sharing and environmental safeguards. Samuel Abu Jinapor, the former Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, emerged as a vocal advocate for domestic value addition, cautioning against the export of raw lithium. Jinapor emphasized that for Ghana to truly benefit from its mineral wealth, local refining is essential. He backed provisions requiring Barari DV to establish a local refinery, arguing that a failure to process the ore domestically would repeat the historical mistakes of the gold and cocoa sectors. The political debate has also been shadowed by broader allegations of 'state capture' in the mining industry, though these claims were recently challenged in a public rebuttal defending the integrity of the Minerals Commission and the involvement of local business figures like Ibrahim Mahama and Ben Nunoo Mensah, the latter of whom holds a 10% stake in the Barari concession. On the ground in the Central Region, the reaction from the Ewoyaa community is a mix of hope and urgency. While local leaders have welcomed the project for its potential to create jobs for the youth, residents have issued a two-month ultimatum for the payment of compensations to those displaced or affected by the mining operations. Community leader Frank Acquah stressed that timely settlements are crucial for maintaining social peace, while Member of Parliament Dr. Prince Arhin assured the public that administrative delays would be minimized. As the project moves toward execution, the focus shifts to regulatory clearances and ensuring that Barari DV complies with the environmental and value-addition mandates set by Parliament to ensure the 'white gold' boom benefits the citizens of Ghana.

Ho: Muslims pray for peace in Middle East, Ghana
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National Leaders Call for Peace, Moral Renewal, and Environmental Stewardship During Eid-ul-Fitr 2026

President John Dramani Mahama joined the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, and thousands of the Muslim faithful at Black Star Square in Accra to mark Eid-ul-Fitr 2026. This year’s celebration, which concluded the holy month of Ramadan, was defined by a strong call for national unity, moral renewal, and global peace. Against a backdrop of escalating international conflict, the President and Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that Ghana’s religious and cultural diversity remains its greatest strength. They urged citizens to reject extremism and embrace interfaith harmony, particularly noting the significance of Ramadan coinciding with the Christian season of Lent this year. The festivities were heavily overshadowed by the devastating war in the Middle East, which escalated significantly following its onset on February 28, 2026. President Mahama expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis and the loss of innocent lives in conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. He urged global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to prioritize dialogue over military confrontation. These calls for restraint were echoed by the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) and local religious leaders like Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Muhammad in Cape Coast, who warned that the geopolitical turmoil could lead to economic downturns and rising oil prices in Ghana. The conflict has reportedly seen the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, further complicating the prospects for regional stability. On the domestic front, the National Chief Imam and other regional leaders raised urgent alarms regarding social and environmental challenges. In a speech delivered by his spokesperson, Sheikh Aremiyaw Sha'ib, the Chief Imam condemned the destructive impact of illegal mining, deforestation, and sand winning, framing environmental protection as a spiritual duty. Simultaneously, leaders expressed grave concern over "moral decadence" among the youth, specifically citing rising rates of drug abuse, prostitution, and indiscipline. In Bolgatanga, Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Atanga Akamugri called for a coordinated effort between security agencies and the community to protect the youth, while traditional authorities in Denkyira Amoafo signaled strict community enforcement to curb social vices and promote responsible behavior. Closing the celebrations, President Mahama outlined his administration’s "Reset Agenda," which focuses on inclusive development through job creation, education, and healthcare. He challenged Ghanaians to carry the values of Ramadan—self-discipline, compassion, and integrity—beyond the festive season to aid in national building. The Vice President echoed these sentiments, noting that the period should serve as a catalyst for spiritual growth and collective responsibility. As the nation moves forward, the leadership's primary focus remains on maintaining Ghana's reputation for peace and stability while navigating the economic and social pressures exerted by a volatile global landscape.