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Ghana Politics News

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.

A woman wearing a green dress with the Ghana Revenue Authority logo speaks at a podium in a formal setting, possibly the Parliament of Ghana. She is gesturing while addressing an audience, with wooden furniture and official emblems visible in the background.
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Ghana's Agricultural Reforms: Balancing Economic Revitalization with Labour Rights and Political Accountability

Ghana’s agricultural landscape is navigating a complex period of structural transformation, marked by ambitious industrial reforms and significant labor disputes. Central to this shift are the recent 2026 reforms within the cocoa sector, where the government has introduced a new financing model aimed at boosting domestic processing. Under this initiative, local processors are slated to receive up to 50% of the national cocoa output, a move coupled with the transfer of the Ghana Cocoa Board’s (COCOBOD) legacy debts to alleviate financial pressure. While these measures have garnered support from major labor unions, they have also triggered a sharp backlash over proposed internal austerity measures, specifically a 10-20% salary reduction for senior staff. The Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU-Ghana) and the General Agricultural Workers’ Union (GAWU) have formally rejected these pay cuts, labeling them unlawful and demoralizing. The unions argue that the decision was reached without proper consultation or adherence to established labor laws, potentially undermining the morale of those tasked with implementing the industry's revitalization. Despite their opposition to the salary reductions, the unions remain aligned with the government’s broader goal of reducing COCOBOD's debt and insulating the sector from the global market volatility that has historically plagued Ghana’s primary export. They have called for immediate institutional safeguards to prevent political interference and ensure the sector's long-term sustainability. These modern reforms are unfolding against a backdrop of long-standing political friction regarding cocoa management. Historical tensions resurfaced as the Minority caucus in Parliament previously challenged the executive over sharp reductions in cocoa producer prices, which dropped from GH%3,625 to GH%2,587 per 64kg bag. Led by figures like Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, critics have argued that such price fluctuations reflect domestic mismanagement rather than external market factors. By contrasting Ghana’s pricing volatility with the relative stability maintained in neighbouring C$te d’Ivoire, political stakeholders continue to emphasize that the livelihoods of nearly one million Ghanaians depend on consistent and fair pricing strategies that prioritize the farmer over political interests. Beyond the cocoa sector, the government is also intensifying efforts to revive stagnant industrial assets, most notably the Komenda Sugar Factory. The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has announced plans to appoint a transactional advisor to secure a private-sector strategic investor for the facility, which has been largely idle since its 2016 inauguration. The revival strategy includes the development of a raw material supply model and an outgrower scheme for local sugarcane farmers. This initiative is part of a broader industrialization agenda that includes the development of an Automotive Component Manufacturing Policy and stricter controls on material exports to support domestic manufacturers. Together, these efforts represent a pivotal attempt to reduce Ghana’s import bills and create a more resilient, self-sufficient national economy.

A photograph showing a formal handshake between a foreign official and Ghanaian politician Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The meeting takes place in front of the Ghanaian flag and a green flag, suggesting a diplomatic engagement at a government office.
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Ghana Confronts Russia Over Alleged Digital Exploitation and Privacy Violations Against Ghanaian Women

The Government of Ghana has formally summoned the Russian Ambassador, Sergei Berdnikov, to express strong discontent following a national outcry over the non-consensual recording and distribution of sexually explicit images involving Ghanaian women. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs registered a formal protest against what it described as 'atrocious conduct' by an individual alleged to be a Russian national. The case, which has sparked a national crisis, involves the surreptitious filming of intimate encounters that were subsequently monetized and published on various online platforms. The Ghanaian government emphasized that these actions constitute a grave violation of national laws, cybercrime regulations, and the privacy rights of its citizens. During the diplomatic meeting, Ambassador Berdnikov acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and expressed Russia's willingness to assist in the investigation, despite the absence of a formal extradition treaty between the two nations. However, the Ambassador raised significant questions regarding the suspect's identity. He noted that the name circulating in the media and government reports—Vyacheslav Trahov, also known as 'Yaytseslav'—does not align with standard Russian naming conventions and may instead be a vulgar expression used as a false alias. While the Russian Embassy has not yet confirmed the suspect's nationality, it has committed to sharing intelligence and relevant information to help Ghanaian authorities track down the perpetrator. Domestic response to the scandal has been swift, with the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection condemning the acts and initiating support services for the victims. Member of Parliament Samuel Nartey George and other officials have called for decisive legal action to protect the digital privacy of Ghanaians and deter future infringements. The controversy has highlighted a disturbing trend referred to as 'African Casting,' where foreign nationals exploit local individuals to create content for global digital revenue. This case is being viewed as a turning point for Ghana's digital privacy framework, testing the strength of current legal measures against the impacts of digital predation and foreign exploitation. Beyond the immediate criminal investigation, the incident has provoked a broader societal debate regarding sexual responsibility and public health in Ghana. Some commentators argue that the outrage over the foreign fugitive should also prompt a reflection on internal systemic issues, including a culture of silence surrounding sexual health and the accountability of local actors. As the investigation continues, the Ghanaian government remains focused on leveraging diplomatic channels to achieve justice for the victims. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured the public of its commitment to pursuing the suspect through international cooperation, emphasizing that protecting the dignity of citizens in the digital space is a paramount national priority.

"Ghana First, NDC Second": Fifi Kwetey Urges Radical Shift in Party Culture and National Loyalty
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"Ghana First, NDC Second": Fifi Kwetey Urges Radical Shift in Party Culture and National Loyalty

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has issued a stern call for a fundamental transformation within his party, arguing that the NDC must uphold significantly higher moral and political standards to lead Ghana’s proposed "reset" agenda effectively. Speaking in a series of interviews on Joy News, Kwetey emphasized that the party cannot build public trust by simply criticizing the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) while mirroring its perceived flaws. He stressed that "business as usual" must end within the NDC first, demanding an end to internal hypocrisy and a return to the party’s core values to ensure the success of any national reform initiative. Central to Kwetey’s vision is a rigid hierarchy of loyalty: "Ghana first, NDC second, me last." He criticized a growing trend among political leaders who prioritize individual gain and personal ambition over collective progress. According to Kwetey, the strength of the nation lies in placing the national interest above party loyalty. He warned that the disconnect between leadership and the grassroots often stems from leaders pursuing selfish objectives, whereas the grassroots more clearly understand the need for collective action. This "hardline loyalty doctrine" is presented as a necessary corrective to resolve internal tensions and align the party with the genuine needs of the country. Kwetey further observed a significant shift in the Ghanaian electorate, asserting that voters are no longer "gullible" or easily swayed by empty, short-term promises. He noted that recent elections demonstrate a more discerning public that seeks sustainable, long-term solutions and accountability from its leaders. This evolution in voter mindset serves as a warning to politicians who underestimate the intelligence of the populace. By setting a tougher standard, Kwetey believes the NDC can provide a better example for Ghana’s youth, fostering a legacy of principled leadership rather than one of opportunism. While acknowledging that his advocacy for internal reform and strict adherence to values might be unpopular or even jeopardize his own political future, Kwetey expressed a readiness to sacrifice his personal ambitions. He insisted that while political leadership is temporary, the enduring values of the party must be preserved to achieve a true national transformation. For Kwetey, the ultimate goal is not merely to win power but to ensure that the party is internally prepared to exercise that power in a way that truly serves the Ghanaian people, regardless of the personal cost to its leaders.

AFP via Getty Images A photo of one of three suspects - seen here holding a knife - arrested in connection with a foiled attack on Taylor Swift's concert in Vienna. Photo: 8 August 2024
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Leadership Crisis in South Africa and Institutional Accountability in Ghana Headlines Political Landscape

The political and social landscape in Southern and West Africa is undergoing significant shifts as South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) faces a leadership crisis while Ghana intensifies its focus on institutional accountability. John Steenhuisen, leader of the DA, has announced his resignation following a series of scandals, including allegations of financial mismanagement and criticism over his handling of the foot-and-mouth disease crisis. This leadership vacuum comes at a critical time as the DA recently entered a coalition government with the African National Congress (ANC). Meanwhile, in diplomatic developments, Leo Brent Bozell III has arrived in South Africa as the newly appointed U.S. Ambassador, aiming to repair strained ties and address controversial issues such as the persecution of minorities and geopolitical tensions. In Ghana, the healthcare system is under intense scrutiny following the tragic death of 29-year-old engineer Charles Amissah. The Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) and Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh have launched investigations after Amissah was allegedly denied emergency care at three major Accra hospitals due to a lack of available beds. This incident has reignited public outrage over the persistent 'no-bed syndrome,' prompting the government to propose a real-time bed monitoring system. On the legal front, an Accra Circuit Court has set a significant precedent by awarding GH 200,000 in damages to Ernestina Torgbor after her partner of 11 years, businessman Vince Kontoh, breached a promise to marry, highlighting the legal weight of emotional and social commitments in modern Ghanaian law. International political discourse has also seen high-level friction, with Hillary Clinton accusing the Trump administration of a "cover-up" regarding files related to Jeffrey Epstein. In the United Kingdom, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, faces potential repercussions from the Football Association over controversial comments describing the UK as being "colonised by immigrants," a statement the club has moved to distance itself from to protect its commercial interests and inclusive values. Similarly, tennis star Coco Gauff has utilized her platform to speak out against U.S. immigration policies and social injustice, citing her activist grandmother as a primary influence for her engagement in political matters. Security concerns dominated the European sector as 21-year-old Beran A was charged with terrorism in Austria for plotting a shrapnel bomb attack on a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna. The plot, foiled by a CIA tip-off, led to the cancellation of three sold-out events. Additionally, in the entertainment sphere, legal tensions have escalated between Afrobeats star Davido and Sophia Momodu over a child custody dispute, with Momodu's lawyers warning against public intimidation. These diverse events collectively underscore a global period of heightened scrutiny for public figures, the enforcement of legal standards in personal relationships, and a rigorous demand for government transparency and safety.

Mahama Leads Global Reparations Charge as Ghana Champions Economic Sovereignty and Honors Revolutionary Hero Sgt. Peter Tasiri
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Mahama Leads Global Reparations Charge as Ghana Champions Economic Sovereignty and Honors Revolutionary Hero Sgt. Peter Tasiri

In a significant push for global justice and economic independence, President John Dramani Mahama is spearheading a landmark resolution to be presented to the United Nations General Assembly in March 2025. The resolution seeks formal global recognition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade as a grave crime against humanity. Acting in his capacity as the African Union (AU) Champion for Justice and Reparations, Mahama's initiative has already gained the formal adoption of the AU Assembly. This diplomatic move is part of a broader 'Year of Justice for Africans through Reparations' campaign, which aims to reshape the global narrative around historical injustices and establish national commissions across member states to engage historical perpetrator nations in formal dialogue. Parallel to this international advocacy, the Ghanaian presidency has introduced the 'Accra Reset' initiative, a bold framework designed to enhance the nation’s economic sovereignty and transform its trade relationships. Key reforms include a commitment to end foreign cocoa financing by 2030, with plans to raise domestic bonds in Cedis to purchase cocoa directly from farmers. President Mahama has also pledged to halt the export of raw mineral ores by the same deadline, emphasizing local value addition and job creation. These measures, discussed during the AU Summit in Addis Ababa, are framed as essential steps to align Africa’s finance, health, and technology sectors while addressing the migration pressures facing the continent’s youth. The drive for national identity and unity was further underscored by a recent cultural phenomenon dubbed the 'fugu fight.' After President Mahama wore a traditional Ghanaian smock (fugu) during a visit to Zambia, social media debates evolved into a nationwide celebration of Ghanaian heritage. This movement, supported by initiatives like 'Fugu Friday,' has not only fostered national pride but also created tangible economic opportunities for local weavers. Prominent voices, including Alhaji Seidu Agongo, have noted that this collective defense of cultural identity serves as a reminder of the power of unity in tackling broader national challenges such as poverty and educational reform. While looking toward the future, Ghana is also reflecting on its revolutionary past following the passing of Sergeant Peter Tasiri Azongo on February 15, 2026. Aged 95, Sgt. Tasiri was a pivotal figure in the June 4, 1979 uprising, famously instrumental in releasing Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings from detention. The JJ Rawlings Foundation has paid tribute to his role in laying the foundation for Ghana’s socio-political transformation. His family, supported by the Foundation, has requested privacy as they seek a state burial for the man whose actions fundamentally altered the course of the nation's political history. These converging developments—the pursuit of global reparations, the shift toward economic self-reliance, the celebration of cultural identity, and the honoring of historical icons—represent a multifaceted effort to redefine Ghana’s place in the world. As the nation prepares for the UN resolution in March and moves toward its 2030 economic targets, the synthesis of historical legacy and forward-looking policy suggests a strategic commitment to justice and sovereignty. The success of these initiatives will likely depend on maintaining the national unity recently displayed in the cultural arena to meet the ambitious goals of the 'Accra Reset' and the global reparations agenda.

NDC Outlines New Internal Rules as Government Scales Up Economic Initiatives and Youth Employment Schemes
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NDC Outlines New Internal Rules as Government Scales Up Economic Initiatives and Youth Employment Schemes

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Ghanaian government have launched a series of strategic reforms and socio-economic initiatives aimed at fostering internal party discipline and driving national development. Central to these efforts is a new directive from NDC General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, which requires government appointees to resign their positions at least six months before contesting internal party elections. This policy is designed to prevent the concentration of power and ensure a fair distribution of leadership opportunities among the party's vast membership. Simultaneously, the party has opened a nationwide membership drive to create a 'bigger tent,' specifically targeting young voters and previously inactive members ahead of upcoming branch-level elections. Kwetey emphasized that the party's growth is rooted in its commitment to fulfilling promises and maintaining strict internal accountability. On the national development front, the government is significantly expanding its youth empowerment programs through the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP). Patrick Opoku Fofie, the Ashanti Regional Coordinator for NAP, announced that 2,000 youth in the Ashanti Region are set to benefit from structured vocational training, financial support, and certification. Currently in its pilot phase, the program targets 400 master craft persons across districts like Atwima Kwanwoma. To ensure transparency and minimize the risk of misappropriation, the initiative utilizes a direct payment system through the Bank of Ghana, where training fees and support funds are transferred directly to the beneficiaries' accounts. Local officials have praised the program as a vital tool for achieving self-reliance and reducing regional unemployment. In the economic sector, the government is intensifying its push for a '24-Hour Economy' and enhanced agribusiness output. Deputy Health Minister and MP for Essikado-Ketan, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, recently engaged traders at Kojokrom Market to gather feedback on the initiative, which aims to extend trading hours, improve security, and create more income-generating opportunities. This aligns with broader efforts to bolster food security, highlighted by a new partnership with Spain. The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, welcomed a commitment from GB Foods to cultivate 6,000 acres of tomatoes in the Afram Plains. This project is expected to double local yields and reduce the nation’s dependence on imports, marking a significant step in Ghana's industrialization strategy. However, the cocoa sector remains a point of political contention. While NDC Assemblymember Japhet Festus Gbede defended the current administration’s management by claiming the opposition would have raised taxes during price slumps, the Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana has called for an end to the politicization of COCOBOD. Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu II, president of the association, warned that political interference has led to lack of accountability and significant debt. He urged for more transparency in procurement and more direct engagement with farmers. Amidst these debates, the government is also reforming educational access; the Ghana Scholarship Authority recently conducted merit-based examinations for over 3,800 applicants for the Hungarian Stipendium, a move aimed at restoring public trust in the scholarship system. These diverse initiatives—spanning from legal education reforms urged by Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie to innovative employment schemes—reflect a broader government effort to stabilize the economy and professionalize public service. As the NDC strengthens its internal structures, the success of the 24-Hour Economy and the National Apprenticeship Programme will likely serve as key benchmarks for the administration’s performance. Moving forward, the focus remains on ensuring that these policies translate into tangible improvements in the daily lives of Ghanaian citizens, particularly in rural and trading communities where economic pressures are most acute.

Ghana Bolsters International Security Ties and Domestic Vigilance Following Fatal Burkina Faso Terror Attack
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Ghana Bolsters International Security Ties and Domestic Vigilance Following Fatal Burkina Faso Terror Attack

Ghana is intensifying its national security measures and international law enforcement cooperation following a devastating terrorist attack in Titao, Burkina Faso, that claimed the lives of 18 Ghanaian traders. Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak has issued an urgent appeal to the public to cease the circulation of graphic images of the victims, emphasizing the profound trauma such content causes to the grieving families. The attack, attributed to the Islamist militant group JNIM, occurred during a violent confrontation between extremists and Burkinabe armed forces, highlighting the escalating security risks facing traders operating along the volatile Sahel corridor. The victims of the attack, which included 10 men and eight women, have been buried with DNA samples taken for identification, while survivors are being evacuated to Ouagadougou for intensive medical treatment. In the wake of this tragedy, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called for a significant strengthening of Ghana’s counter-extremism framework. He urged the government to enhance regional security cooperation and intelligence sharing with neighboring countries to better protect Ghanaian citizens and traders working abroad from emerging extremist threats. Parallel to these domestic responses, Ghana has moved to deepen its global security partnerships through high-level diplomatic engagements. In Accra, Minister Mubarak hosted a Lebanese delegation, including Consul General Ali Samih Jaafar and Deputy Director of State Security Morshed El Hajj Sleiman, to establish joint strategies against transnational crimes such as cyber fraud, drug trafficking, and money laundering. These discussions prioritized intelligence sharing and coordinated law enforcement responses to address cross-border criminal activities that threaten national stability. Further extending this international outreach, Minister Mubarak recently met with his Turkish counterpart, Mustafa Çiftçi, in Ankara to explore technical cooperation in migration management, disaster response, and counter-terrorism. These multi-country engagements underscore a strategic shift toward proactive security management as the West African region grapples with rising instability. While global powers like the United States continue to deploy personnel to assist regional neighbors like Nigeria against Islamist insurgents, Ghana is focusing on building robust institutional frameworks and international alliances to safeguard its territory and citizens.

Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin Critiques NDC's Performance and Reveals Deep Ties to Kennedy Agyapong Amid NPP Unity Drive
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Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin Critiques NDC's Performance and Reveals Deep Ties to Kennedy Agyapong Amid NPP Unity Drive

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has delivered a scathing assessment of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s first year in office, asserting that the administration has failed to make a "real impact" on the lives of Ghanaians. Speaking in a series of recent engagements, Afenyo-Markin questioned the absence of significant development projects and highlighted the plight of contractors who remain unpaid despite executing public works through bank loans. He dismissed the government's reliance on positive macroeconomic indicators, arguing that statistics are meaningless if they do not translate into tangible improvements for citizens, such as cocoa farmers and the urban poor. Furthermore, he characterized the proposed 24-hour economy policy as more of a campaign slogan than a viable policy, criticizing the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill as an unnecessary bureaucratic expansion that risks misusing public resources. Amidst these critiques, the Minority Leader has intensified calls for the resignation of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. Afenyo-Markin clarified that these demands are rooted in "policy failures"—specifically regarding inconsistencies in a controversial lithium mining agreement—rather than personal animosity. He emphasized that the Minority’s role is to ensure accountability and restore public trust in the management of Ghana's mineral resources. Within Parliament, Afenyo-Markin credited his leadership success to his "backbone" team of whips, praising Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh and deputies Habib Iddrisu and Jerry Ahmed Shaib for their organizational and advocacy strengths. He reiterated a commitment to a "balanced opposition" strategy that maintains rigorous government scrutiny without obstructing essential parliamentary business. On the internal front of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Afenyo-Markin expressed strong support for flagbearer Mahamudu Bawumia’s post-primary unity drive, urging members to move past internal grievances to focus on the 2028 elections. This call for cohesion was mirrored during strategic meetings between the Minority Caucus and TESCON executives, where student leaders were encouraged to uphold the party's centre-right values. Additionally, Afenyo-Markin made headlines by revealing a deep personal bond with former MP Kennedy Agyapong, disclosing that Agyapong had once provided him with $5 million to revive his business based solely on trust. He attributed Agyapong’s overwhelming success in the Effutu primaries to years of genuine community support in Winneba and announced plans to construct an ICT facility in Agyapong’s honor. As the political atmosphere intensifies, the government is also navigating sensitive security concerns following a terrorist attack in northern Burkina Faso that claimed the lives of 18 Ghanaian traders. Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak has appealed to the public to stop circulating graphic images of the victims to avoid causing further trauma to the grieving families. These converging issues of economic performance, parliamentary accountability, and internal party dynamics set the stage for a high-stakes political season as Ghana moves toward its next major electoral cycle, with the Minority signaling it will remain a vigilant watchdog over both the executive and the nation’s resources.

Political Restructuring and Leadership Transitions: NDC’s Strategic Reforms Amidst South African Turmoil and Global Diplomatic Shifts
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Political Restructuring and Leadership Transitions: NDC’s Strategic Reforms Amidst South African Turmoil and Global Diplomatic Shifts

The landscape of African and international politics is witnessing a significant period of restructuring and accountability. In Ghana, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has embarked on a rigorous internal reform process aimed at broadening its base and ensuring effective governance. General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey announced a strategic 'bigger tent' membership drive to attract youth and previously inactive voters ahead of branch elections. Central to this reform is a new policy requiring government appointees to resign their positions six months prior to contesting internal party elections. This mandate, according to Kwetey, is designed to prevent the concentration of power and ensure that high-level officials, such as Ministers and CEOs, do not neglect their state responsibilities for party politics. The party’s growth strategy emphasizes discipline and the fulfillment of promises as the primary drivers for its increasing public appeal. While Ghana focuses on internal party stability, South Africa’s political landscape is in a state of flux. The Democratic Alliance (DA), the nation's second-largest party, is facing a leadership crisis following the resignation of John Steenhuisen. Steenhuisen’s departure comes amidst a series of scandals, including allegations of personal financial mismanagement and intense criticism over his handling of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in the agricultural sector. As the DA navigates its new role in a coalition government with the African National Congress (ANC) following the 2024 elections, internal racial tensions have resurfaced. Analysts suggest that the upcoming leadership contest between candidates such as Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis will test the party's ability to maintain its identity while appealing to a diverse electorate. International relations are also shifting as the United States navigates internal and external political pressures. Leo Brent Bozell III, President Trump’s newly appointed ambassador to South Africa, has arrived in Pretoria with a mandate to address strained ties, specifically regarding South Africa’s genocide case against Israel and its refugee programs. Simultaneously, in the U.S., former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has accused the Trump administration of a 'cover-up' regarding files related to Jeffrey Epstein, demanding greater transparency through Congressional testimony. This climate of activism extends to the sporting world, where tennis star Coco Gauff has joined other athletes in condemning divisive immigration policies and police actions, citing the influence of her grandmother’s civil rights legacy in her decision to speak out on political matters. Back in Ghana, the intersection of politics and public welfare is under scrutiny following the tragic death of 29-year-old engineer Charles Amissah. His death, caused by the 'no-bed syndrome' after being denied emergency care at three major hospitals, has prompted an investigation by the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) and a separate probe by Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh. This incident has accelerated calls for a real-time bed monitoring system and broader healthcare reforms. Additionally, the nation mourns the passing of Sergeant Peter Tasiri Azongo, a pivotal figure in the June 4, 1979 uprising who was instrumental in the release of Jerry John Rawlings. His death marks the end of an era for a generation that shaped Ghana’s modern political history, with his family currently seeking a state burial to honor his contributions to the country's socio-political transformation.

Government Scales Up Economic Empowerment through National Apprenticeship Scheme and Strategic Agribusiness Partnerships
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Government Scales Up Economic Empowerment through National Apprenticeship Scheme and Strategic Agribusiness Partnerships

The Government of Ghana has launched a series of multi-sectoral initiatives aimed at tackling youth unemployment, enhancing food security, and modernizing the national economy. Central to these efforts is the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP), which is currently piloting in the Ashanti Region with the goal of benefiting approximately 2,000 youth. Ashanti Regional Coordinator Patrick Opoku Fofie announced that the program provides structured vocational training, financial support, and certification. Under the pilot phase, 400 master craft persons (MCPs) are being engaged to train five apprentices each, with modern tools provided to ensure high-quality skill acquisition. To ensure fiscal integrity, the government has established a transparent payment system where training fees and allowances are processed directly through the Bank of Ghana to beneficiaries' accounts, a move praised by local officials including Atwima Kwanwoma District Chief Executive, Mrs. Grace Agyemang Asamoah. Complementing the vocational training drive is a strategic focus on industrializing the agricultural sector through international cooperation. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, recently met with Spanish Ambassador Angel Lossada Torres-Quevedo and executives from GB Foods Africa to solidify a major tomato cultivation project. GB Foods has announced plans to cultivate 6,000 acres in the Afram Plains, a project expected to double local yields from 20 to 40 tonnes per acre. This initiative is designed to bolster food security, reduce the nation's reliance on imports, and serve as a cornerstone for Ghana’s broader industrialization strategy by ensuring a steady supply of local raw materials for processing. In tandem with industrial and vocational efforts, the government is intensifying its engagement on the '24-Hour Economy' initiative. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, Deputy Minister for Health and MP for Essikado-Ketan, recently held consultations with traders at the Kojokrom Market to integrate their feedback into the policy. The initiative, championed by President John Dramani Mahama, seeks to expand economic activity by extending trading hours, improving security, and enhancing utility access to create sustainable jobs. Furthermore, the Ghana Scholarship Authority is reforming educational access, recently conducting a merit-based competitive examination for 3,810 candidates vying for the Hungarian Stipendium scholarship. In collaboration with WAEC, this exercise aims to restore public confidence in government scholarships through transparency and meritocracy. Collectively, these programs represent a comprehensive approach to national development, ranging from grassroots trade empowerment to high-level agribusiness investment and institutional reform. By combining direct youth skills training with structural economic shifts like the 24-hour cycle and large-scale agricultural projects, the government aims to foster a self-reliant economy. The next steps involve the full-scale implementation of the NAP following the pilot phase and the commencement of cultivation in the Afram Plains, both of which are expected to provide immediate economic relief and long-term professional opportunities for thousands of Ghanaians.

Ghana Intensifies Regional Security and International Cooperation After Tragic Terror Attack on Traders
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Ghana Intensifies Regional Security and International Cooperation After Tragic Terror Attack on Traders

Ghana is mourning the loss of 18 citizens following a brutal terrorist attack in northern Burkina Faso, an incident that has prompted the government to ramp up international security collaborations. Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak has officially confirmed the deaths of the traders—comprising 10 men and eight women—who were caught in a confrontation between extremists and armed forces near Titao. As the nation grapples with this tragedy, officials are emphasizing a shift toward more robust counter-terrorism frameworks and enhanced intelligence-sharing with regional and international partners to prevent future incursions. In the immediate aftermath of the attack, attributed to the Islamist militant group JNIM, Minister Mubarak issued a passionate plea to the public to cease the circulation of graphic images and videos of the victims. Highlighting the severe trauma such footage inflicts on grieving families, the Minister noted that some victims were burnt beyond recognition, making identification a delicate process involving DNA sampling. Efforts are currently underway to evacuate survivors and provide medical treatment in Ouagadougou. Concurrently, Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called for a significant strengthening of Ghana’s counter-extremism framework, urging deeper regional intelligence cooperation to protect traders operating across the volatile Sahel corridor. Beyond immediate crisis management, the Ministry of the Interior has initiated a series of high-level diplomatic engagements to fortify national security against evolving transnational threats. In Accra, Minister Mubarak met with a senior Lebanese delegation, including Consul General Ali Samih Jaafar and Deputy Director Morshed El Hajj Sleiman, to develop joint strategies against cyber fraud, drug trafficking, and money laundering. Similarly, a visit to Ankara for talks with Turkish counterpart Mustafa wiftwi saw the expansion of cooperation to include emergency response systems, disaster management, and migration control. These engagements signal Ghana’s intent to build a multifaceted defense against organized crime and terrorism through international knowledge-sharing. The security challenges facing Ghana are mirrored across the West African sub-region, where international intervention continues to play a critical role. In neighboring Nigeria, the arrival of 100 U.S. military personnel—with 200 more expected—underscores the intensity of the fight against Islamist insurgents that threaten the stability of the entire region. These developments highlight the interconnected nature of security in West Africa. For Ghana, the tragic loss of its citizens in Burkina Faso serves as a catalyst for a more proactive security policy and a modernized apparatus aimed at safeguarding both domestic stability and the safety of its nationals working abroad.

President Mahama to Present Historic UN Resolution on Slave Trade Amidst Rallies for Economic Sovereignty
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President Mahama to Present Historic UN Resolution on Slave Trade Amidst Rallies for Economic Sovereignty

President John Dramani Mahama is set to present a landmark resolution to the United Nations General Assembly in March 2025, seeking global recognition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade as a grave crime against humanity. Speaking during the 39th Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), where he serves as the Champion for Justice and Reparations, the President emphasized the moral and legal imperatives of reparatory justice. The AU has already adopted the draft resolution, marking a significant step in Africa’s collective quest to address the long-standing legacies of slavery, colonialism, and apartheid. This diplomatic push is a central pillar of the AU's declaration of 2025 as the "Year of Justice for Africans through Reparations." To support this global agenda, President Mahama urged AU member states to establish national reparations commissions and engage in formal dialogues with historical perpetrator nations. He highlighted that the goal is to reshape global narratives, framing reparations not merely as financial transfers but as essential tools for justice and sustainable development. This effort builds on a year of intensive engagement and structural advancements within the AU, including the establishment of expert committees and the Sovereign Negotiators Certification Programme. The upcoming UN presentation is viewed as a pivotal moment for the continent to secure a Decade of Reparations and redress historical injustices on a global scale. Beyond historical justice, Mahama used the AU Summit to rally support for the "Accra Reset Initiative," a strategic framework designed to align Africa’s finance, health, trade, and technology sectors. In a bold move toward economic sovereignty, the President announced plans to end foreign cocoa financing by 2030, proposing that Ghana raise domestic bonds in Cedis to purchase cocoa directly from farmers. This reform aims to eliminate exploitative financing structures while boosting local processing and job creation. Additionally, Mahama pledged to halt the export of raw mineral ores by 2030, stressing the need for local value addition to meet the aspirations of Africa’s youth and mitigate migration pressures. The President’s advocacy on the global stage has been mirrored by a surge in national pride at home, recently epitomized by the "fugu fight." An instance of Mahama wearing the traditional Ghanaian smock during a visit to Zambia ignited a viral cultural celebration, transforming online misunderstandings into a powerful display of national unity. This movement has not only promoted Ghanaian heritage but has also yielded economic dividends for local weavers and the fashion industry. Mahama’s message remains consistent: whether through diplomatic resolutions at the UN or the promotion of cultural identity, unified collective action is the primary engine for overcoming poverty and achieving national progress.