A tragic accident in Binduri, Upper East Region, has claimed the life of a soldier, with five others sustaining serious injuries. The incident occurred during a military operation, leaving the affected soldiers in critical condition. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident while the injured have been rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. More to follow soon. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Black Stars Captain, Mohammed Kudus has issued a heartfelt apology on behalf of the entire team to the people of Ghana, following their disappointing performances in the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Sudan in Accra and Libya. In a statement, Kudus acknowledged the frustration and disappointment felt by fans across the nation, emphasizing the team's shared sense of responsibility for the results. "On behalf of the entire team, I would like to extend our sincerest apologies to the people of Ghana for our recent performances against Sudan and Libya. Despite our utmost effort and dedication, the results did not reflect our aspirations or the pride we have in representing our beloved nation," Kudus said. The skipper went on to assure Ghanaians that the team is committed to learning from their mistakes, regrouping, and working tirelessly to restore the Black Stars' former glory. "We want to assure Ghanaians that we are committed to learning from our mistakes, regrouping, and working tirelessly to restore the Black Stars to our former glory," he added. Kudus called on fans to continue supporting the team during this difficult period, noting that their unwavering loyalty is crucial to the squad’s morale and determination. "We urge all fans to stand by us during this challenging period. Your encouragement and faith in us will fuel our determination to succeed. We will not give up," Kudus said. The Black Stars are now focused on redeeming themselves in the upcoming matches as they aim to make amends for the recent setbacks. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Sad news coming in indicates that police have arrested five (5) Mpraeso SHS students for gang raping a 16-year-old female student in the school . According to the police, three (3) other boys who also raped the girl are currently on the run. Narrating the sad incident, a female colleague disclosed that she was on her way with her friend to buy food at the canteen when a male student called her (victim). She added that while approaching him, seven other male students also walk towards them. Her friend on sensing danger, run and abandoned the victim leaving the 8 boys to forcibly had sex with her in turns. It is emerging that the unfortunate incident occurred on Sunday. The victim (Name withheld) said “I have been to the hospital for the necessary check up and I want the suspects to face the full rigorous of the law,” However, the Headmaster of the school, James Affadu has confirmed the incident. He noted that the disciplinary committee has dismissed all eight boys. He also disclosed that the school has handed over the case to the police for further investigation. The Nkwatia Divisional Police Command is, however, yet to process the suspects to court. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has thrown a public challenge to Former President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to face Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in a national debate ahead of the upcoming December elections. Speaking to chiefs in Tamale on Wednesday, October 16, President Akufo-Addo called on Mr. Mahama to stop avoiding what he described as a necessary confrontation with Dr. Bawumia, stressing the significance of public discourse in shaping Ghana’s democratic landscape. For some time, Dr. Bawumia and other leading figures of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have been requesting a debate with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, but their requests have been met with refusal. The NDC has repeatedly stated that its candidate, Mr. Mahama, would not participate in any debate with the Vice President. President Akufo-Addo, however, maintained that a debate between the two leaders is essential to clarify their positions on critical national issues, particularly on policies such as the Free Senior High School initiative. "We need someone who is reliable, whose work can be trusted, who is consistent and clear-minded," President Akufo-Addo said. "That is why we are saying, and indeed the majority of Ghanaians are saying, we want Mahama and Bawumia to debate the issues." He further questioned Mahama’s reluctance, asking, "Why is John Mahama running away from the debate? The people of Ghana deserve to see this debate so they can decide who is truly addressing the nation’s needs." President Akufo-Addo highlighted the uncertainty surrounding Mahama’s stance on key policies such as the Free SHS, pressing the former president to clarify his position. "What is your position on Free Senior High School? Will you continue it, review it, or cancel it?" he asked. "No one should be allowed to be president who cannot answer these questions clearly," he concluded, challenging Mahama to give Ghanaians straightforward answers. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako, the Founder and Leader of Alive Chapel International, has been granted bail alongside his wife and another individual, following their appearance in court. The three were each granted bail to the tune of GH¢50,000 with sureties by the Accra Circuit Court. The case, which has generated significant public interest, involves charges that are yet to be fully detailed by court officials. Lawyers for Bishop Salifu Amoako and his co-defendants successfully argued for bail, citing their willingness to cooperate with the investigation and their permanent residency in Ghana. The court accepted the argument, allowing them to remain free on bail while the legal process continues. Bishop Amoako and his wife have yet to make any public statement regarding the charges. The case has been adjourned, with further hearings scheduled in the coming weeks. The development has sparked discussions within both religious and legal circles, with many followers of the bishop expressing their support for him amid the ongoing legal proceedings. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Vice Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has extended an apology to bondholders whose investments were negatively affected by the government’s Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP). Speaking on an Accra-based radio station on Wednesday, Dr. Opoku Prempeh acknowledged the significant contributions of bondholders in stabilizing Ghana’s economy amidst the nation’s debt restructuring efforts. He expressed the government's gratitude, emphasizing the critical role bondholders played in the economic recovery. “We must recognize that without the 95% of bondholders who voluntarily participated in the DDEP, the current stability of our economy would not have been possible,” Dr. Opoku Prempeh remarked. He further explained that the overwhelming support from local bondholders was instrumental in the country’s engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which ultimately helped to steer the economy back on track. “If 95% of them hadn’t agreed to exchange their bonds, we couldn’t have gone through the restructuring process with the IMF. The cooperation of foreign bondholders also hinged on this,” he added. Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s apology comes at a time when the government is working to rebuild trust with investors, following the difficult but necessary measures taken to restructure the nation’s debt. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a bold move to environmental sustainability, the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), in partnership with the Government of Ghana, has officially commissioned a state-of-the-art Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP) in Nalerigu . This 400-ton-per-day facility will serve as a critical component in Northern Ghana's waste management infrastructure, processing mixed waste, recycling plastics, and producing organic compost to benefit the agricultural community. At the heart of the commissioning ceremony, a speech read on behalf of the Nayire, Naa Bohagu Mahami Sheriga, praised the initiative, calling it a lifeline for the people of the region. “If the plant is to produce organic compost and recycle waste, then the project has indeed come to save our people,” he said. Naa Sheriga commended the leadership of JGC and its staff, urging them to foster a culture of maintenance to ensure the long-term success of the project. He also emphasized the importance of preserving the land on which the plant is situated. The Deputy Minister of Sanitation and Member of Parliament for Sissala East Constituency, Hon. Amidu Chinnia Issahaku, representing the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, underscored the plant's role in advancing Ghana's sanitation goals. He highlighted that the facility aligns with the government’s vision of transforming the country’s waste management sector through public-private collaborations. "This facility, with its 400-ton daily capacity, represents a major step in the government's efforts to modernize the waste sector and foster partnerships with the private sector," Hon. Issahaku stated. He also lauded the contribution of Zoomlion workers for their hard work and commitment in making this vision a reality. In his address, Mr. Haidar Said, Executive Director of Environment and Sanitation at JGC, delivered remarks on behalf of Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, Executive Chairman of JGC. Mr. Said recounted the sod-cutting ceremony by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in 2020, celebrating the success of the project. "This facility, which will process 400 tons of waste per day, is the result of the President’s vision for a cleaner Ghana," he noted. He also revealed that a medical waste treatment plant, with an additional capacity of 400 tons, is part of the same complex. Together, these facilities will handle 99% of the waste generated in the Northern Region, ensuring comprehensive waste management. Mr. Said expressed his gratitude to the chiefs and elders of the North East Regions for their support and acknowledged the resilience of the JGC team and Zoomlion workers. He also noted the plant’s wider significance, dedicating it to the people of Nalerigu and positioning it as a research and learning center for educational institutions across the country. Additionally, the facility will serve as a tourist center, attracting visitors interested in sustainable waste management practices. The plant’s establishment has created some 600 direct and indirect jobs, contributing to the economic empowerment of the local community. It also offers carbon credit benefits, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and combating climate change. Hon. Zakaria Yidana, North East Regional Minister, expressed his satisfaction with the project's completion, acknowledging the leadership of President Akufo-Addo and the efforts of the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development (MLGDRD). He praised JGC for the successful execution of the project and commended the introduction of initiatives like the District Resilience Improvement Programme (DRIP) and other infrastructural improvements, including road development in the region. The Nalerigu IRECOP is a game-changer in the North East Region’s waste management sector, offering a sustainable and efficient solution to the region’s waste challenges. By transforming waste into useful resources such as compost and recyclable products, the plant is set to make a lasting impact on both the environment and the local economy. This initiative adds to the significant milestone in Ghana’s journey toward achieving sustainable development, showcasing the power of public-private partnerships in addressing critical national issues such as waste management. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In the wake of violent clashes between supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ayawaso North Constituency, Hon. Alhaj Manaf, a former parliamentary candidate for the area, has made a passionate appeal for calm and restraint. The clashes, which erupted in the early hours of Sunday, resulted in multiple injuries and significant property damage, including the vandalism of Hon. Manaf’s office. His office door was shattered during the altercation, which he described as a worrying indicator of rising political tensions in the constituency. In a press statement issued on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, Hon. Manaf expressed deep concern over the violence, calling it "a deeply disturbing reflection of the political environment." “As a victim of this violence and a concerned citizen, I appeal to all involved to exercise restraint and remain calm,” he urged. “These acts of violence have no place in our democratic process, and it is crucial that peace and stability are prioritized.” Hon. Manaf called on supporters of both political parties, as well as local residents, to avoid any further acts of violence or retaliation. He stressed the importance of fully cooperating with the Ghana Police Service as investigations into the incident continue, urging all parties to allow the authorities to bring those responsible to justice. “We must reaffirm our commitment to peaceful coexistence, democratic values, and the rule of law,” he emphasized. “Let us work together to prevent such incidents from happening again and ensure a safe and democratic environment for all.” The violence in Mamobi has sparked concerns about the rising political tensions as Ghana moves closer to another election season. While the situation in Ayawaso North remains tense, efforts are underway to restore calm, with parliamentary candidates from both the NDC and NPP, alongside local leaders and authorities, working together to de-escalate the conflict. Hon. Manaf remains hopeful that with collective action and a firm commitment to peace, such incidents can be resolved without further escalation. His call for calm comes at a critical time, as Ghana's political climate demands renewed focus on peace and stability in the lead-up to the elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a strong warning to appliance repair technicians, specifically those working on refrigerators, to obtain certification or risk being prohibited from practicing. This warning comes as part of the EPA’s efforts to mitigate the environmental dangers posed by improper handling of refrigerants. Joseph Amankwa Baffoe, the Director of Ozone Layer and Climate Change at the EPA, highlighted the risks posed by untrained technicians who may inadvertently release harmful gases such as Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) into the atmosphere, contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer. Speaking on the sidelines of an engagement with students in the Eastern Region, Mr. Baffoe stressed the importance of educating the youth on environmental stewardship. “We want school children to understand what the ozone layer is, what causes its depletion, and the consequences of this depletion. It is our collective responsibility to address this challenge,” he said. The engagement, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to raise awareness about the causes of ozone layer depletion and its long-term consequences. In reference to World Ozone Day, celebrated annually on September 16, Mr. Baffoe emphasized the focus on educating students in secondary schools. “This year, we are focusing on students. They will grow up to face these challenges, and they must be well-informed to help address them,” he added. He also encouraged early involvement of students in addressing environmental challenges, stressing the need for proactive measures from a young age. Additionally, Mr. Baffoe warned that technicians who fail to enroll in the EPA’s free refrigeration technician certification program would face legal consequences. "In Ghana, many emissions come from refrigerators and air conditioners. That’s why we are urging technicians to take advantage of our training program to acquire certification. This certificate serves as a license, proving that they have the necessary skills to work. If we catch anyone working without this certification, the law empowers us to issue fines or arrest them," he warned. Chlorofluorocarbon gases, commonly emitted from refrigerators and air conditioners, are significant contributors to ozone layer depletion. The resulting increase in harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation poses serious health risks to the population. As a signatory to the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty aimed at phasing out substances that deplete the ozone layer, Ghana reaffirms its commitment to addressing global environmental challenges. The EPA's efforts to regulate the appliance repair industry reflect this commitment and highlight the importance of proper training to protect the environment and public health. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Vice Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has called on the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to publicly disclose the number of senior high school (SHS) blocks they have constructed over the last eight years in office. Speaking at a campaign event in Nzezera, Dorma West Constituency in the Bono Region, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, who served as Minister of Education under the John Mahama administration, highlighted the NDC’s transparency in its record on education infrastructure. “We committed to building 200 senior high school blocks during our term, and while we did not complete all of them, the achievements are there for all to see,” she noted. “The NPP, on the other hand, promised to construct 350 new senior high schools. The people of Ghana deserve to know how many they’ve actually delivered.” The NDC has consistently maintained that the Mahama-led administration successfully completed 46 E-blocks out of the 200 planned, as documented in the Ministry of Education’s 2016 handing-over notes. This stands in contrast to the NPP’s criticisms of the previous government, accusing them of falling short on their infrastructure commitments. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang further argued that the NPP’s performance in education infrastructure remains unclear, urging voters in Dorma West to hold the government accountable for its promises. She urged the electorate to vote against the NPP in the upcoming elections, citing their unsatisfactory performance in delivering key infrastructure, particularly in the education sector. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former Minister for Youth and Sports, Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has expressed deep concern over the declining state of Ghana football, attributing the current challenges to poor leadership and a lack of strategic direction . Speaking on the issue, Mr. Vanderpuye lamented the deterioration of the country’s football sector, describing it as a shadow of its former glory. “Our sports have sunk so low that it will take a strong hand, tactical mind, and impeccable knowledge of the terrain to be able to salvage it,” he said. He highlighted that football, once a unifying force that transcended political divisions, has lost its way under the current government. "The monastery of football in Ghana was a peaceful sport that brought the country to the same table to have dinner, no matter the political party in power," Mr. Vanderpuye noted, adding that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) lacks the expertise and vision needed to revitalize the sector. According to the former Minister, only the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has the capacity to restore Ghanaian football to its past glory. "The NPP is bereft of such a human resource, and it's only the NDC that can deliver us from the depths we have sunk. I feel miserable, especially for our football, and pray Ghanaians would give us the opportunity to reset our sports in 2025." Mr. Vanderpuye’s comments have sparked further debate on the future of sports in the country, with many calling for a comprehensive overhaul of football administration and development in Ghana. As the country looks ahead to 2025, the question remains whether the leadership change he advocates for will be enough to reverse the current decline. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has emphasized that the commission does not have the power to make anyone a President. According to Jean Mensa, EC is solely responsible for declaring the results of the elections as determined by voters. Speaking at an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held in Accra, Jean Mensa underscored the need for accurate information regarding the role of the EC in the electoral process. She dismissed any claims suggesting that the commission has the ability to install a president, insisting that the mandate of the EC is to simply declare the outcome of votes cast by the electorate. "Let it be clear that the EC does not make anyone a president; we only declare the results based on the votes cast by the people" "It is important that we refrain from peddling misinformation and false news, especially in an election year," she said. Her comments come in response to claims circulating in the media, which have raised concerns about the integrity of the EC’s role. This clarification serves as a reminder that it is the decision of the voters that determines the outcome of elections. The remarks of Jean Mensa were highlighted by Dr. Hassan Ayariga, leader of the All People's Congress (APC), who reiterated the importance of promoting transparency and trust in the electoral process. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith