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News coming in indicates that the Ghana Police Service has arrested two suspects, including an alleged gang leader, in connection with the robbery attack that led to the death of a player from Berekum Chelsea. According to a police update, one of the suspects sustained injuries during a shootout with a police intelligence team and has been taken to hospital for treatment. Investigations are ongoing, with police indicating that further details will be released in due course. The incident has raised concerns within the Ghana Premier League as authorities work to ensure justice is served. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strongly condemned what it describes as politically motivated arrests and judicial overreach following the detention and remand of party communicator, Baba Amando. Addressing a press conference on April 15, 2026, the NPP National Organizer, Henry Nana Boakye, alleged that the arrest and subsequent court proceedings against Amando reflect a growing pattern of intimidation and suppression of dissent under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration. According to him, Amando honoured a police invitation in Sunyani on April 13, 2026, in the company of his lawyer, Hon. Tuah Yeboah. However, he was reportedly transferred to Accra on the same day on what police described as “orders from above.” After being granted police bail, he was directed to report to the Police Headquarters the following day, a directive he complied with. Mr. Boakye stated that despite complying with all police instructions, Amando was arraigned before court without new evidence being presented. He further claimed that the prosecution neither opposed bail nor requested a remand, yet the presiding judge ordered a two-week remand. He criticised the decision, describing it as judicial overreach and an abuse of discretion, arguing that the court acted independently of the prosecution’s position. The NPP also questioned the basis of the charge against Amando, which relates to the alleged publication of false news involving an AI-generated image of some government officials. Legal counsel for the accused, led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and supported by MP for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour, argued in court that their client was not a flight risk and had consistently cooperated with law enforcement. Mr. Boakye further alleged double standards in the application of the law, claiming that members of the current administration had previously made controversial statements without facing similar legal action. He cited past remarks by President John Dramani Mahama and other government officials, arguing that such comments were not subjected to the same level of scrutiny or legal consequences. The NPP also referenced the arrest of its Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe Abronye, describing it as part of a broader pattern of targeting opposition figures. Beyond the specific case, the party raised concerns about the conduct of state institutions, including the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), which it accused of engaging in politically motivated actions, including an alleged raid on the residence of former public official Maxwell Kofi Jumah. The party is demanding an immediate review of the remand order, a halt to what it describes as the weaponization of state institutions, and a probe into the conduct of the presiding judge. “The growing trend of arrests and prosecutions of opposition voices raises serious concerns about free speech and civil liberties in the country,” Mr. Boakye stated. He urged the government to focus on addressing pressing national issues such as unemployment, rising cost of living, energy challenges, and illegal mining, rather than what he described as the persecution of political opponents. The NPP maintains that the developments represent a threat to democratic governance and has called for the immediate release of Baba Amando. Story by: Hawa Abubakar

The Ghana Immigration Service has intensified its fight against human trafficking and organized street begging, rescuing hundreds of vulnerable individuals in a major early morning operation across parts of the Greater Accra Region. The intelligence-led exercise, carried out on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, targeted criminal networks allegedly exploiting foreign nationals—particularly women and children—by forcing them into street begging. The operation covered several hotspots, including Abossey Okai, Zongo Junction, Nima, Madina, and Kaneshie. According to the GIS, a total of 305 West African nationals were encountered during the swoop. This figure includes 113 children, 66 adult women, and 126 adult men. Among the children, 36 are boys while 77 are girls, a statistic authorities say highlights the alarming vulnerability of minors in such exploitative systems. All rescued individuals are currently undergoing profiling and immigration processes at a designated holding centre, in accordance with established protocols. The Service noted that it is collaborating with relevant agencies to ensure victims—especially children—receive the necessary care, protection, and support. Officials say the latest operation builds on a previous exercise, incorporating improved coordination and more targeted strategies aimed at dismantling trafficking networks operating under the guise of street begging. Reaffirming its mandate, the Ghana Immigration Service emphasized its commitment to combating human trafficking, safeguarding vulnerable migrants, and promoting lawful migration practices. The Service has also called on the public to assist in the fight by reporting suspicious activities related to human trafficking and organized street begging to the nearest immigration office. The statement was signed by Deputy Commissioner of Immigration and Head of Public Affairs, Maud Anima Quainoo. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, paid a courtesy call on the Bono Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Addea Akwaboa, as part of his five-day official tour of the region. Mr. Amadu formally informed the Minister of his tour and expressed appreciation for the support extended to the Ghana Immigration Service in recent months. He emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration and hoped the partnership would continue throughout his tenure. Hon. Akwaboa, in his remarks, congratulated the Comptroller-General on his appointment and wished him a successful tour. He pledged his unwavering support to ensure the effective operations of the Service in the Bono Region, reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening security and administrative efficiency. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno , has revealed that a two-day train-the-trainer programme aimed at strengthening emergency response capabilities within the police service is equipping officers with practical lifesaving skills. The programme, organised by Global Life Savers Inc.  in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service , European Resuscitation Council , and the National Ambulance Service , is designed to prepare officers to administer emergency medical care in critical and combat situations. Speaking at the climax of the capacity-building programme held at the FPU Conference Hall at the Police Depot in Tesano, Mr Yohuno emphasised the importance of building the capacity of officers to respond effectively to emergencies, particularly in high-risk environments. Also addressing participants, the Head of Monitoring and Evaluation at the National Ambulance Service, Christiana Achena , highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in improving emergency response and saving lives nationwide. She noted that the training had significantly enhanced coordination between the National Ambulance Service and the Ghana Police Service, especially in handling emergency situations. Head of Research at the Mental Health Authority , Samuel Cudjoe Hanu , educated the Inspector General of Police, members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), organisers, and beneficiaries of the train-the-trainer workshop for the National Formed Police Unit on the importance of prioritising mental health. He urged officers to take their psychological well-being seriously as they carry out their demanding duties. The programme brought together key stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, enhance skills, and improve emergency response outcomes within the country’s security and health sectors. #Thinknewsonline

President John Dramani Mahama has called for mandatory annual health screening for all Ghanaians as part of a renewed push to strengthen preventive healthcare and ensure early detection of diseases. Speaking at the launch of the government’s Free Primary Healthcare Policy at Osudoku District Hospital, President Mahama emphasized that routine screenings will play a critical role in identifying conditions such as hypertension and diabetes at early stages, where they can be managed or reversed through lifestyle and dietary changes. He explained that the policy is structured to guarantee access to basic health checks at the community level, including blood pressure and blood sugar testing. Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, he noted, will be equipped to provide free essential services, including treatment for common illnesses such as malaria, cholera, and minor respiratory infections. According to the President, patients diagnosed with more complex conditions will be referred to higher-level facilities, including district hospitals, where care will be covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). He stressed that the Free Primary Healthcare Policy is designed to complement—not replace—the NHIS. “You still need your NHIS card,” President Mahama stated, clarifying that while primary care services at CHPS compounds and health centres will be free, advanced treatment at referral facilities will require NHIS coverage. He added that access to free services at the community level will only require proof of Ghanaian identity, such as the Ghana Card. The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, described the policy rollout as a transformative moment in Ghana’s healthcare delivery, highlighting a decisive shift from reactive treatment to preventive care. He revealed that trained health workers and community volunteers will be deployed to markets, schools, workplaces, and other public spaces to conduct screenings and intensify public health education nationwide. Hon. Akandoh disclosed that the initiative will begin in 150 underserved districts, with plans to expand coverage across the country by 2028. He added that mobile clinics and outreach teams will be central to extending healthcare services to hard-to-reach communities. “With mobile clinics and outreach teams extending care to hard-to-reach areas, the policy is poised to reduce preventable diseases, cut healthcare costs, and build a healthier population—one that prioritizes wellness over illness,” he stated. The Free Primary Healthcare Policy is expected to significantly strengthen Ghana’s preventive health system and reduce the growing burden of non-communicable diseases nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has lauded the Bank’s resilience and strong performance in 2025 despite a challenging global economic environment. Speaking at the 24th Ordinary Session of the EBID Board of Governors held in Accra on April 8, 2026, Dr. Forson noted that the global economy last year was shaped by widening disparities in growth, driven partly by heavy investments in artificial intelligence in advanced economies, as well as ongoing geopolitical tensions and trade uncertainties. According to him, these developments created what has been described as a “steady but narrow” global growth path, with uneven benefits across regions, posing significant challenges for West African economies and financial institutions like EBID. “Despite these headwinds, EBID did not just weather the storm—we rose above it,” he stated, attributing the Bank’s success to strong governance, effective oversight, and the dedication of its management and staff. Dr. Forson disclosed that EBID’s balance sheet expanded significantly from US$1.97 billion in 2024 to US$2.39 billion by the end of 2025, reflecting increased operational scale. Profitability also improved, rising by 13.3 percent from US$8.55 million to US$9.75 million within the same period. He further revealed that project approvals surged by 50 percent, while commitments jumped by over 83 percent to US$813.77 million, with a strong focus on critical sectors such as energy and transport infrastructure. The Finance Minister added that the Bank successfully mobilised over US$510 million and €310 million, which were fully deployed into priority projects, alongside an additional US$100 million in capital mobilisation. Highlighting key institutional milestones, Dr. Forson said EBID maintained its credibility on the international stage, with Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings reaffirming its ratings at B2-Stable and B-Stable, respectively. He also pointed to the Bank’s accreditation with the Green Climate Fund as a major achievement, opening new avenues for climate financing to support member states. Dr. Forson, however, expressed concern over delays in capital contributions by member states, revealing that only Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Togo have fully met their obligations under the agreed capital increase programme. He noted that although US$102.5 million was received in 2025, outstanding arrears still stand at approximately US$256 million. “Timely capital payments are critical. They strengthen EBID’s leverage and sustain its growth and impact across our region,” he stressed, urging member states to demonstrate renewed commitment in meeting their financial obligations. Dr. Forson concluded by calling for decisive and united action among stakeholders, emphasizing that the future of EBID and the region’s economic transformation depends on bold decisions and collective responsibility. He also expressed appreciation to the President of EBID, Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, and his team for their steadfast leadership and commitment to the Bank’s vision. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh , has reiterated government’s commitment to transforming Ghana’s healthcare system through a strong emphasis on primary healthcare, describing it as the most effective strategy to reduce avoidable hospital admissions and improve overall system efficiency. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday, Mr Akandoh said the introduction of free primary healthcare is a deliberate policy shift aimed at moving the country away from a reactive, emergency-driven model toward a preventive and people-centred approach. According to the Minister, the overreliance on emergency care has contributed significantly to the persistent congestion in major health facilities, often resulting in the widely reported “no bed syndrome.” He stressed that strengthening primary healthcare services across the country will ensure early detection and management of diseases before they escalate into critical conditions requiring hospitalisation. “Strengthening primary healthcare delivery will ultimately reduce avoidable hospital admissions and improve overall system efficiency,” Mr Akandoh stated. He explained that routine medical check-ups must become a cultural norm, noting that many life-threatening conditions can be prevented or effectively managed when detected early. By encouraging regular visits to health facilities, the policy aims to reduce the number of patients presenting with advanced illnesses at emergency units. Mr Akandoh further highlighted that the initiative is not only about accessibility but also about reducing the financial and operational burden on tertiary health institutions. He argued that expanding hospital infrastructure alone cannot resolve the systemic challenges if preventive care is not prioritised. As part of broader reforms, the Minister disclosed that government is investing in digital health systems to improve coordination and efficiency within the sector. This includes the development of a centralised command centre that will provide real-time data on bed availability across major hospitals, enabling faster decision-making and better patient management. He noted that facilities such as the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital  and the University of Ghana Medical Centre  will be integrated into the system, allowing health authorities to monitor capacity and respond promptly to emergencies. Additionally, plans are underway to establish an emergency coordination centre to further strengthen response mechanisms and ensure patients receive timely care at appropriate facilities. Mr Akandoh revealed that the government has completed the financial projections for the programme, estimating that approximately GH¢1.2 billion will be required annually to sustain the free primary healthcare policy. He emphasised that the initiative is well-structured and backed by thorough planning. “This is not an ad hoc programme. We have done our projections and we are confident in the direction we are taking,” he assured. The Health Minister maintained that the long-term vision is to build a resilient and integrated healthcare system that prioritises prevention, enhances service delivery at the community level, and significantly reduces pressure on hospitals. He concluded that by investing in primary healthcare, Ghana stands to achieve improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and a more efficient system capable of meeting the needs of its growing population. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Senior Director of the German Federal Police, Mr. Marco Zack, has underscored the critical role of mobility in enhancing border security operations, stating that improved transportation capacity will significantly strengthen patrol efficiency and response times. According to him, enhanced mobility—particularly through the provision of motorbikes—will support more effective border patrols, enable rapid incident response, and reinforce security presence in hard-to-reach areas. Mr. Zack made these remarks during a brief presentation ceremony at the National Headquarters of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), where the German Federal Police donated 21 motorbikes and riding accessories to the Service. He noted that the intervention forms part of ongoing efforts to build the operational capacity of the GIS, adding that stronger mobility systems are essential in tackling cross-border crime and maintaining stability within border communities. Mr. Zack further emphasised that security is a shared global responsibility, stressing that a safer Ghana contributes to broader international security, including that of Germany. He reaffirmed the German Government’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Ghanaian authorities in the area of border management and security. Meanwhile, the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Samuel Basintale Amadu, announced the immediate commencement of rider training for trainees at the Immigration Tactical Training School in Kyebi, following the donation. He indicated that some of the motorbikes would be deployed to the training school to equip officers with essential riding skills ahead of their postings, particularly in difficult terrains. Mr. Amadu noted that Ghana’s border landscape—often characterised by remote and inaccessible areas—makes motorbikes an indispensable tool for effective patrol operations. He expressed appreciation to the German Government and the German Federal Police for their continued support and partnership, assuring that the equipment would be properly maintained and efficiently utilised to enhance the Service’s operational readiness. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A high powered delegation from Ghana’s Ministry of Health has paid a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, to formally invite him to the launch of the government’s flagship Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) initiative. The delegation, led by the Ministry’s Chief Director, Desmond Boateng, used the engagement to brief the revered traditional ruler on the objectives of the programme. The FPHC initiative is designed to expand access to quality primary healthcare services across the country, with a strong focus on preventive care and early treatment at the community level. Beyond the official invitation, the team also conveyed their goodwill to the Ga Mantse following his recent accident, expressing gratitude for his recovery and commending his resilience and continued leadership. Responding to the delegation, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II expressed appreciation for the visit and described the Free Primary Healthcare initiative as a timely and critical intervention in strengthening Ghana’s healthcare delivery system. He further reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the successful rollout of the programme, pledging to use his influence to champion improved access to quality primary healthcare services within his jurisdiction. The visit underscores the Ministry’s strategy of engaging traditional authorities as key partners in advancing public health interventions and ensuring community-level impact. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana  has taken a major step toward advancing digital skills development with the distribution of laptops to institutions and training centres under the nationwide rollout of the One Million Coders Programme (OMCP). The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations , is aimed at equipping young Ghanaians with critical coding and digital competencies to compete in the global digital economy. Speaking at a presentation ceremony on Friday, the Minister emphasized that lessons from the pilot phase have helped shape the national rollout, ensuring that the programme delivers practical skills and real employment opportunities for participants. The OMCP, originally launched by John Dramani Mahama  at the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT , began with a pilot involving 500 trainees across four centres in Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani and Tamale. However, overwhelming demand—nearly 94,000 applications within 48 hours—prompted an expansion of the pilot to accommodate about 1,000 trainees. Under Phase One of the national rollout, the programme will operate in 130 learning centres across all 16 regions, each equipped with 50 customised laptops configured for coding training. The implementation is being carried out in collaboration with key institutions, including the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications , Ghana Digital Centres Limited , and the Kofi Annan ICT Centre. Twelve universities, including the University of Ghana , Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology , and University of Cape Coast , are participating in the first phase. The Minister also acknowledged support from the private sector, notably MTN Ghana , which contributed resources valued at approximately two million US dollars toward the procurement of additional laptops. The Ministry further announced that the application portal will soon be reopened to allow previous applicants to continue their registration, while new applicants will undergo a simplified verification process linked to the Ghana Card system. To ensure smooth implementation, 130 constituency-level coordinators have been recruited to manage the centres and provide technical support, with plans to expand coverage to all constituencies nationwide. The One Million Coders Programme is expected to play a critical role in Ghana’s digital transformation drive, preparing a workforce ready to tap into opportunities in artificial intelligence, software development, and remote digital employment. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A major step toward redefining Ghana’s sporting landscape has been taken as Genet Services and the Office of the Ga Mantse officially signed an agreement to roll out the Ga Mantse Tennis Cup—an initiative expected to blend sports, culture, and economic development. The tournament, which is set to be launched soon, has already garnered strong backing from key stakeholders, each highlighting its potential to transform lives and reposition tennis within Ghana’s sports ecosystem. Georgina Emmanuella Nettey, CEO of Genet Services, described the initiative as a unifying platform aimed at honouring the King while creating opportunities across communities. “This is more than a sporting event. It is about bringing people together and building opportunities—from infrastructure to youth development—while celebrating the custodian of the land,” she stated. She revealed plans to develop beach tennis facilities and expand access to the sport, while calling on corporate Ghana and the diplomatic community to support the vision. Project Lead and Partner, Joseph Narnor, reinforced the broader ambition of the tournament, positioning it as a catalyst for economic and cultural growth. “We are turning tennis into more than recreation. It is a platform that brings together tourism, culture, and business to drive national development,” he said. He added that the annual tournament will attract participants from across Ghana and serve as a key pathway for players seeking international exposure, while also nurturing grassroots talent through community tennis hubs. Adding a cultural and social perspective, Diana Hopeson applauded the initiative for its integration with tradition. “Linking this tournament to the Homowo Festival is powerful. It celebrates our heritage while giving young people a positive path through sport,” she noted. She encouraged nationwide support, emphasizing the need to diversify Ghana’s sporting success beyond football and boxing. From the Office of the Ga Mantse, Justice Julia Naa-Yarley Adjei-Amoah reaffirmed the King’s full endorsement, describing the initiative as a purposeful intervention for youth empowerment. “Tennis has been overlooked for far too long. This project is about giving it prominence while using it to guide young people toward positive development,” she said. She further disclosed that the tournament will form part of activities leading up to the Homowo Festival and will be staged annually as a flagship event. “Through this partnership with Genet Services, we are building something sustainable—an event that will inspire participation and national pride year after year.” She also called on corporate Ghana, creatives, and stakeholders to support the initiative in advancing the vision of Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II and elevating the Ga Paramount Stool. With anticipation building ahead of its official launch, the Ga Mantse Tennis Cup is being positioned as a landmark initiative—one that promises to reshape Ghana’s sporting identity, empower its youth, and attract global attention. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith