Vice Chancellor, University of Ghana, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo has led a global push for better representation of African languages in AI revolution. Delivering the Warwick Distinguished Africa Lecture in the UK, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, University of Ghana Vice Chancellor argued that Africa's diverse language basket is not a barrier to technological progress but an intellectual infrastructure the world cannot afford to ignore. Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo has warned that world is at a risk of missing out on Africa’s rich cultural representation without a clear and intentional inclusion of African languages in the global artificial intelligence revolution. She said this while delivering the Fifth Warwick Distinguished Africa Lecture at the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Her lecture, titled: “Whose Language Counts? African Voices, Knowledge Systems, and the Future of AI,” made the case that without embedding African languages in the design of Artificial Intelligence, the systems being built to serve the world will serve only part of it. Despite the continent’s over 2000 living languages spoken by its more than 1.4 billion people, a recent UNESCO report described African languages as a “blind spot in AI”. Professor Appiah Amfo, who is also the Chairperson of the Association of Commonwealth Universities, said this is not because they lack complexity, but because they remain dramatically underrepresented in the database on which large language models are trained. She argued that: “When a language is absent from the digital corpus, it is not merely a translation problem. It is a visibility problem. It is a knowledge problem. And ultimately, it becomes a question of justice.” According to her, the problem is deeper than linguistics. She insisted that when AI is trained mainly on English and other dominant languages, it creates an inequitable system where Western knowledge frameworks are passed on as universal while African philosophical traditions, oral knowledge systems, and indigenous nuances remain unseen. At the University of Ghana for instance, a group of students building the “Nana Aba AI”, an innovative voice assistant modelled on the Vice-Chancellor herself to help students and staff with verified information on different parts of university life. But after encountering it, she noted: “The system could reproduce 'me' in English with considerable success. The moment it encountered Ghanaian names, places, and phrases, the voice I was hearing no longer sounded like me" "My own name did not sound like mine. I have now been tasked to record my voice in a studio so the system could learn what I actually sound like when I speak Ghanaian languages or mention Ghanaian names" "That is a precise illustration of what is wrong. AI does not struggle with African languages because they are too complex. It struggles because we have not yet been seen. “So, the question is not whether Africa will participate in AI. Africa is already participating. The question is: will Africa participate merely as a consumer of externally developed systems, or will Africa help shape the languages, values, assumptions, and knowledge structures embedded within those systems?” The lecture follows the recent launch of Ghana's National AI Strategy which aims to position the country as a leader in continental efforts towards safeguarding Africa’s future. The 10-year strategy is backed by a $250m government commitment, which will among other things, fund the establishment of a world-class artificial intelligence computing centre, to develop and improve the natural language processing capabilities in Ghanaian languages. With the University of Ghana developing and adopting its own AI Policy earlier this year, Professor Appiah Amfo said the university will roll out a compulsory Digital Literacy and Applied AI course for all students from the next academic year, to prepare them to confidently use AI in the future. Warwick’s ViceChancellor and President, Professor Stuart Croft, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Professor Amfo to Warwick for this year’s Distinguished Africa Lecture" Her contribution highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping the future of research and innovation. "Our growing relationship with the University of Ghana reflects a shared commitment to collaboration that is thoughtful, mutually beneficial and grounded in areas of common interest.” Professor Nana Aba Appiah is the second Ghanaian to deliver the lecture since it started 5 years ago, following in the stead of former University of Ghana Vice Chancellor, Emeritus Professor Ernest Aryeetey. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that government will directly finance and complete 35 selected Agenda 111 hospital projects as part of a broader strategy to operationalize the stalled healthcare infrastructure initiative. Speaking on a Volta Region-based radio station on Friday, the Minister criticized the previous administration's implementation of the Agenda 111 programme, arguing that the project was launched without adequate financial planning. Mr. Akandoh said he had consistently raised concerns about the initiative while serving as Ranking Member in Parliament, warning that constructing 111 hospitals simultaneously without secured funding would create significant challenges. "I criticized this when I was in opposition, and I knew we would get to this point. No government can set out to build 111 hospitals without secured funding and proper planning. It is simply not possible," he stated. According to the Minister, approximately GH¢4.8 billion has already been spent on the Agenda 111 programme, yet none of the facilities has been fully completed and operationalized. "With proper planning, that amount could have been used to complete about 20 hospitals in phases, allowing government to identify challenges, resolve them and continue with the rollout," he said. Despite his criticisms, Mr. Akandoh emphasized that the Mahama administration remains committed to ensuring that all inherited projects are completed. He disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama has directed that no inherited project should be abandoned, including the Agenda 111 hospitals. "The President has instructed that no project inherited by this administration will be abandoned. We are determined to ensure that all the Agenda 111 hospitals are completed and made operational," he stressed. The Health Minister explained that government has selected 35 hospital projects for immediate intervention, with the selection based on the level of completion and regional balance to ensure equitable distribution across the country. "We looked at the completion levels and regional representation. Every region will benefit from the first phase. We did not want a situation where one region gets several hospitals because their projects are more advanced while other regions get none," he explained. Mr. Akandoh revealed that the Volta Region is expected to benefit significantly from the first phase, with at least three or four projects likely to be completed under the government's intervention programme. Beyond direct government funding, he outlined two additional strategies to accelerate completion of the remaining projects. The Minister disclosed that faith-based healthcare providers, particularly members of the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG), are being invited to take over some unfinished facilities, complete them, equip them and manage their operations. He noted that government already has a strong working relationship with CHAG institutions, including the payment of salaries for doctors, nurses and other health professionals working in their facilities. "We have told CHAG that if they identify any Agenda 111 facility and are interested, government can hand it over to them to complete, equip and operate," he said. Mr. Akandoh further announced plans to attract private sector participation through public-private partnership arrangements. Under the proposed model, private investors would be allowed to complete and operate selected facilities for an agreed period before ownership reverts to the state under a Build-Operate-Transfer arrangement. "So there are three broad approaches: direct government intervention, partnerships with faith-based health institutions, and private sector participation. Together, these strategies will help us complete the Agenda 111 programme and ensure that the hospitals begin serving Ghanaians," he stated. The Minister expressed confidence that the combined approach would accelerate the completion of the hospitals and strengthen healthcare delivery nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has disclosed that government is undertaking a massive nationwide drive to equip health facilities, including the procurement of at least GH¢1 billion worth of medical equipment for referral hospitals. According to the Minister, the initiative forms part of a deliberate strategy to strengthen healthcare delivery across all levels of the country's health system, from primary healthcare facilities to district, regional and teaching hospitals. Speaking on a Volta Region-based radio station on Friday, Mr. Akandoh stressed that quality healthcare goes beyond the construction of health infrastructure and must be supported by adequate equipment and skilled personnel. "Health facilities are not just about the brick and mortar. It is about the infrastructure, the equipment and the personnel. We are taking deliberate steps to equip all our health facilities across the country," he stated. The Minister revealed that government has already begun procuring equipment for primary healthcare facilities, with available stock currently capable of serving more than 70 percent of the 150 selected districts earmarked under the programme. "As we speak, equipment is arriving in the country almost every day. We are also procuring additional supplies to ensure that our primary healthcare facilities are fully equipped," he said. Mr. Akandoh noted that some of the equipment being distributed, including X-ray machines, incubators and patient monitors, will also benefit selected district hospitals. He explained that government has developed separate equipment procurement strategies for district hospitals, regional hospitals and teaching hospitals to ensure that each level of care receives the appropriate resources. "We are also procuring a minimum of one billion Ghana cedis worth of equipment for our referral hospitals. There is a deliberate effort to reach every level of the healthcare system," he emphasized. The Health Minister further indicated that significant progress is expected before the end of the year, citing the recent delivery of anaesthesia machines to some health facilities. He linked the equipment acquisition programme to government's broader healthcare agenda, particularly the Mahama Care initiative, which seeks to improve the management of non-communicable diseases. "If we say we are investing in Mahama Care and supporting patients with non-communicable diseases, then the health facilities must have the required equipment to diagnose and treat them. That is why we are investing heavily in equipment for our regional and teaching hospitals," he said. Mr. Akandoh expressed confidence that by the close of the year, substantial improvements would be seen in the availability of medical equipment across the country's healthcare facilities, enhancing access to quality healthcare services for Ghanaians. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has disclosed that government is distributing medical equipment worth approximately GH¢500 million across the country to support the implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme. Speaking on a Volta Region-based radio station on Friday, the Minister said the government has completed the policy design and launch stages and is now focused on full-scale implementation, which requires adequate logistics and equipment to enable health workers deliver quality services. According to Mr. Akandoh, the distribution forms part of the first phase of a nationwide effort to improve healthcare delivery, especially in underserved communities. "We have announced the policy and launched it. Now we are at the implementation stage. Once a policy is launched, you must provide the necessary tools for health workers to successfully implement it," he stated. The Health Minister explained that the equipment package includes essential healthcare tools such as glucometers, blood pressure monitoring devices, X-ray machines and other medical equipment needed at health facilities. He noted that the intervention has become necessary due to the inadequate state of medical equipment in many health facilities across the country. Beyond the medical equipment, Mr. Akandoh revealed that government is also distributing tricycles and motorbikes to support healthcare workers under the programme. He clarified that the tricycles are not intended to function as ambulances, contrary to claims circulating on social media. "These tricycles are meant to facilitate the movement of health workers from one community to another to perform their duties under the Free Primary Healthcare Programme. They are not ambulances," he emphasized. The Minister further disclosed that the programme is currently being rolled out in 150 districts nationwide, with priority given to the most deprived district in each region. He assured that although implementation is beginning with selected districts, government's long-term plan is to extend the benefits of the programme to every district in the country. Mr. Akandoh expressed confidence that the provision of the equipment and logistics will significantly strengthen primary healthcare services and improve access to quality healthcare for Ghanaians, particularly those living in rural and hard-to-reach communities. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana Water Ltd (GWL) has inaugurated the Governing Council of the Ghana Water Institute (GWI), charging members to position the institution as the leading centre for water-sector training, research, consultancy and professional development in West Africa. The inauguration marks a significant step in Ghana Water's efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, promote innovation and develop the human resources required to improve water service delivery in Ghana and across the sub-region. It forms part of Ghana Water's broader commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, promoting professional excellence and ensuring sustainable service delivery. GWI, a sub-subsidiary of Ghana Water Ltd, evolved from the Ghana Water Training Schools which started in 1965 to strengthen human resource development within the Company and the wider water sector. The Institute is expected to provide training, research, professional development and consultancy services while promoting innovation and knowledge-sharing. The Institute will support Ghana's efforts to build a highly skilled workforce capable of addressing emerging challenges in water resources management and utility operations. The members of the Governing Council are: Chairperson: Prof Afishata Mohammed Abujaja, Chairperson; Prof Jasper Ayelazuno, Prof Moro Adams, Dr Joseph Kojo Ansong, Executive Directors; Dr Nashiru Zulkarnein, Rector. Mr Eric J. Biliguo, Chairman of the Board of Directors of GWL, speaking at the ceremony in Accra on Wednesday, described the establishment of the Institute as a strategic intervention aimed at securing the future of Ghana's water sector while supporting the transformation of Ghana Water into a modern, diversified and financially sustainable utility. He said the Government's vision for the water sector extended beyond the production and distribution of potable water to include innovation, knowledge creation, human capital development and institutional excellence. "The establishment of the Ghana Water Institute is not accidental. It is a deliberate strategic intervention aimed at strengthening the future of the water sector and ensuring that Ghana Water Ltd evolves into a modern, diversified and financially sustainable enterprise," he said. Mr Biliguo said the Institute had been entrusted with the responsibility of developing a centre of excellence for training, research, innovation, consultancy and capacity building in areas such as water resources management, utility operations, engineering, technology, leadership and governance. According to him, the Institute must become the preferred destination for training not only for Ghana Water staff but also for professionals from Ghana, West Africa and beyond. He urged the Council to develop internationally recognised training programmes and certifications, establish strategic partnerships with universities and development partners, promote research that addresses operational challenges within the water sector and generate sustainable revenue through consultancy and knowledge services. The Board Chairman stressed that the success of the Institute would not be measured solely by the number of training programmes organised but by the quality of knowledge generated and its impact on improving water-sector performance. Mr Adam Mutawakilu, Managing Director of Ghana Water Limited, described the inauguration as another important milestone in the Company's transformation agenda. He said the Institute would serve as a strategic centre for excellence in water-sector training, research, innovation and professional development while positioning Ghana as a regional hub for technical expertise and leadership development. "The establishment and operationalisation of these subsidiaries reflect our deliberate efforts to strengthen institutional efficiency, diversify revenue streams, enhance capacity development and create long-term value for the people of Ghana," Mr Mutawakilu stated. He noted that the administration of the Oath of Office and Oath of Secrecy to members underscored the importance of integrity, professionalism and accountability in the discharge of their responsibilities. Prof. Afishata Mohammed Abujaja, Chairperson of the Governing Council of the Ghana Water Institute, expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in the Council and pledged to provide strategic direction, policy guidance and institutional oversight to support the growth of the Institute. She said the Council recognised the critical role of human resource development in achieving sustainable water service delivery and improving sector performance. "The water sector is central to public health, economic development and national progress. However, sustainable water service delivery requires more than infrastructure. It requires skilled professionals, strong institutions, sound systems, innovation, ethical leadership and continuous learning," she said. Prof. Abujaja said the Council would work to ensure that the Institute became a credible centre of excellence for training, research, knowledge-sharing and professional development. She pledged to pursue partnerships with universities, regulators, professional bodies, development partners and industry experts to ensure that the Institute remained relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the water and sanitation sector. The Council was challenged by the Ghana Water Ltd Board to position the Institute as the leading water-sector training, research and consultancy institution in West Africa within the next three years, a target officials believe is achievable through strong governance, innovation and strategic partnerships. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Vice President of Ghana, H.E. Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has announced government's plans to recruit 16,000 health professionals as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery, achieve universal health coverage, and advance the Accra Reset on Health Sovereignty agenda. Speaking at the 2026 Annual Health Summit in Accra, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang described the Accra Reset as a transformative framework aimed at reducing Africa's dependence on external support while promoting domestic investment, local capacity building, and sustainable healthcare systems. She noted that government is translating this vision into action through key interventions, including the Free Primary Health Care Initiative, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Care), and strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure and personnel. According to the Vice President, the planned recruitment will focus on frontline health workers such as community health nurses, midwives, physician assistants, and public health officers to improve access to quality healthcare, particularly in underserved communities across the country. She stressed that building a resilient health workforce remains critical to achieving universal health coverage, adding that government is committed not only to recruiting more health professionals but also creating conditions that will encourage them to remain and serve in deprived areas. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang therefore called for stronger collaboration among government agencies to improve housing, transportation, security, and other social amenities needed to attract and retain health workers, especially in rural communities. She also highlighted the need for ethical recruitment practices and bilateral labour agreements to effectively manage the growing migration of healthcare professionals while safeguarding Ghana's health system. On his part, Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, said Ghana's health sector continues to face significant challenges, including emerging diseases, climate-related health threats, non-communicable diseases, and changes in global health financing. He, however, noted that government has undertaken major reforms to strengthen the sector, including increasing the National Health Insurance Levy, implementing the Free Primary Health Care Initiative, and establishing the Ghana Medical Trust Fund to support persons living with chronic and life-threatening illnesses. Mr. Akandoh disclosed that outpatient attendance at health facilities increased from 29.9 million in 2021 to more than 39 million in 2025, while active National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) membership rose from 57 percent to 66 percent over the same period. He further revealed that out-of-pocket health expenditure has reduced significantly, providing greater financial protection for Ghanaians seeking healthcare services. Despite these gains, the Health Minister acknowledged persistent challenges in the distribution and retention of health workers, particularly in rural areas where staffing shortages remain a concern. "Our challenge today is not simply training more health workers. It is employing them, deploying them equitably, motivating them, supporting them and retaining them," he stated. Both leaders emphasized that achieving universal health coverage would require sustained investment in a skilled, motivated, and resilient healthcare workforce capable of delivering quality healthcare services to every Ghanaian, regardless of location. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse and President of the Ga Traditional Council, has launched the maiden 'Sacred Crown Awards', an initiative aimed at promoting African heritage, spirituality and wellness. The event on Friday, June 5, 2026 at La Palm Beach Hotel was held under the theme “Celebrating African Heritage, Spirituality and Wellness.” Speaking during the unveiling of the Logo of the Sacred Crown Awards 2026, the Ga Mantse noted that there is a need to preserve and celebrate Africa’s rich cultural heritage, spirituality, and wellness traditions. Emphasizing that, Africa is blessed with invaluable treasures, including its traditions, wisdom, spirituality, indigenous healing knowledge, royal institutions, festivals, music, dance, and cultural symbols, which have shaped generations and continue to inspire people around the world. He stressed that these sacred gifts, inherited from the continent’s ancestors, must be protected, honoured, and passed on to future generations rather than allowed to fade away. According to the Ga Mantse, the Sacred Crown Awards was established under his royal patronage to recognize individuals, institutions, communities, healers, cultural custodians, spiritual leaders, wellness practitioners, and changemakers who continue to promote African heritage and serve humanity. He explained that the awards are built on three core pillars—African Heritage, Spirituality, and Wellness—which he described as essential to building strong communities, peaceful societies, and a proud Africa. He further stated that African heritage connects people to their language, customs, traditions, values, and history, while spirituality promotes discipline, humility, service, and respect for the divine. Wellness, he added, focuses on the complete well-being of individuals, encompassing the body, mind, soul, and spirit. He expressed confidence that the Sacred Crown Awards would serve as an important platform for preserving Africa’s identity and celebrating those dedicated to safeguarding its cultural and spiritual legacy. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II also called on traditional leaders, spiritual leaders, wellness practitioners, sponsors and the general public to support the initiative and ensure it becomes a respected national platform that promotes cultural dignity, healing, and unity. The Chairperson of the Organizing Committee for the Sacred Crown Awards, Pilot Queen Princess Duncan, who doubles as the Deputy CEO of COA Research and Manufacturing Limited Company and board member of COA Global Peace Mission, described the award scheme as a sacred vision aimed at celebrating Africa’s identity, culture and spiritual heritage. Princess Duncan, known as Nana Akua Ahenesima I, the Nkosuahemaa of Fante Sekyredumasi Traditional Area, said the Sacred Crown Awards is more than an awards event, explaining that it is a platform created to restore pride in African values and recognize individuals and institutions preserving the continent’s rich heritage. According to her, the awards are built on three key pillars: African Heritage, Spirituality and Wellness. She noted that these pillars reflect Africa’s cultural traditions, spiritual consciousness, and indigenous healing practices. Princess Duncan also revealed that the vision for the initiative was inspired by a symbolic code, “ITNMFO,” which she said represents Inspiration, Tradition, Nations, Minds, Faith, and Oneness. She explained that the message serves as a reminder of Africa’s sacred wisdom, healing, and unity. A representative of Executive Senators International School, Enoch Dawuni Ninsaw, commended the scheme for promoting African cultural values and heritage among the younger generation. Ninsaw said the school’s invitation to the event was a reflection of its commitment to teaching Ghanaian culture, traditions, and values, which align closely with the vision of the Sacred Crown Awards. According to him, Executive Senators International School places a strong emphasis on preserving cultural identity and ensuring that students remain connected to their roots despite the growing influence of social media and foreign cultures. He indicated that upholding Ghanaian culture and instilling its values in the younger generation would go a long way in preserving the nation’s heritage and identity. The launch was well attended by the national chief imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, Bishop Francis Amoako Attah the Founder and General Overseer of the Parliament Chapel International (PCI), Bishop Elisha Salifu Amoako Founder and General Overseer of Alive Chapel, Prophet Fire Oja (born Henry Kore), leader of the Holiness of Christ Zion Ministry, traditional leaders, chiefs among others. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has urged Ghanaians to go beyond planting trees and commit to nurturing them to maturity, stressing that the long-term success of the country's reforestation efforts depends on the survival of every seedling planted. Speaking at the national commemoration of World Environment Day 2026 and the launch of the nationwide Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative at West Africa Senior High School in Accra, the Minister called on citizens, institutions, schools and communities to take ownership of trees planted under the programme. "Plant trees and care for them," Mr. Buah emphasized, noting that environmental restoration can only be achieved when planted seedlings are protected, watered and monitored until they mature. According to him, while Ghana recorded a significant milestone by planting more than 31 million trees under the 2025 Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, the focus of the 2026 exercise will be on ensuring higher survival rates through effective post-planting care and maintenance. "The true measure of success is not the number of seedlings planted but the number of trees that survive and mature," he stated. The Minister announced that government has set a target of planting an additional 30 million seedlings nationwide from June 5 until the end of the rainy season as part of efforts to restore degraded landscapes, increase forest cover and strengthen climate resilience. Mr. Buah said the initiative aligns with the global theme for World Environment Day 2026, "Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future," and this year's Tree for Life theme, "Forests and Economies," both of which underscore the vital role of forests in environmental protection and economic development. He warned that Ghana continues to face the growing impacts of climate change, including erratic rainfall patterns, flooding, droughts, coastal erosion and biodiversity loss, stressing that collective action is needed to safeguard the environment for future generations. Addressing students, the Minister encouraged them to become environmental ambassadors by planting trees, avoiding littering, conserving water and energy, and promoting environmental awareness in their communities. He also reiterated government's commitment to broader environmental protection measures, including marine conservation, climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy investments and efforts to address plastic pollution. Mr. Buah called on all stakeholders to actively participate in the nationwide tree planting exercise, describing environmental sustainability as a shared national responsibility. "Together, let us build a greener, more resilient and more prosperous Ghana," he said. On his part, Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Clement Hugh Brown, has emphasized the critical role forests play in sustaining livelihoods, supporting economic growth and protecting the environment. Addressing government officials, development partners, traditional leaders, students and environmental stakeholders, Dr. Brown said this year's campaign, themed "Forests and Economies," underscores the significant contribution of forests to Ghana's socio-economic development. According to him, Ghana's forest cover currently stands at approximately 6.4 million hectares, accounting for about 27 per cent of the country's land area. He noted that an estimated 20 per cent of the population depends directly or indirectly on forests for food, income and health needs. "Today's celebration is not merely to observe a date on the annual calendar, but to respond to a critical call to action for our planet and our nation," Dr. Brown stated. He highlighted the economic value of the forestry sector, revealing that in 2025 Ghana supplied about 952,000 cubic metres of timber and timber products to domestic and international markets, generating roughly $260 million in value. Dr. Brown also disclosed that visits to ecotourism sites within wildlife parks and forest reserves reached approximately 800,000 last year, representing a 20 per cent increase compared to the previous year. Despite these gains, he warned that deforestation and forest degradation continue to pose serious threats to biodiversity, water resources, climate resilience and the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. Reviewing the achievements of the maiden Tree for Life initiative in 2025, Dr. Brown said 23,600 hectares of degraded and deforested lands were restored nationwide. He added that 30.8 million tree seedlings were planted through collaborations involving the Forestry Commission, private sector actors and civil society organisations. Encouraged by the progress made, the Forestry Commission is aiming to plant 30 million seedlings this year and is calling on all Ghanaians to actively participate in the exercise by obtaining seedlings from Forestry Commission offices and nurturing them to maturity. To strengthen forest protection and sustainable management, Dr. Brown outlined several interventions being pursued by the Commission, including a review of the Forestry Commission Act, exploration of Payment for Ecosystem Services schemes, attraction of private investment into ecotourism, establishment of Forest Protection Camps in illegal mining hotspots, enhanced training for frontline personnel and intensified public education campaigns. He also announced the inauguration of a multi-stakeholder committee tasked with developing a comprehensive forest protection strategy to guide future conservation efforts. Dr. Brown stressed that protecting Ghana's forests requires sustained investment, strong legal frameworks and collective action from government, communities, civil society organisations, the media and the private sector. "We must act collectively and decisively to halt deforestation and forest degradation, restore degraded lands and promote sustainable forest management," he said. The Tree for Life initiative forms part of government's broader efforts to restore degraded ecosystems, mitigate the effects of climate change and secure a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Assin South Member of Parliament and Ranking Member on Parliament's Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has mounted a strong defence of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo over the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, questioning why the former President was widely blamed for delaying the legislation when it had allegedly not been presented to him for assent. Speaking at a Minority press conference in Accra on Monday, June 1, 2026, Rev. Fordjour said recent comments attributed to President John Dramani Mahama have cast fresh light on the circumstances surrounding the controversial Bill and the legal challenges that accompanied it. According to the Assin South lawmaker, President Mahama had publicly indicated that the Bill passed by Parliament in 2024 was not forwarded to former President Akufo-Addo for assent because court cases concerning the legislation were still pending at the time. Rev. Fordjour argued that if the Bill had indeed not reached the former President's desk due to ongoing legal proceedings, then the public criticism directed at Akufo-Addo was misplaced. “If the Bill had not been submitted because the matter was in court, why was he made the face of delay?” he asked. He maintained that for months, many Ghanaians were led to believe that the former President had deliberately refused to sign the Bill into law despite overwhelming public support for the legislation. According to him, the latest developments raise important questions about the narrative that was promoted regarding the Bill's journey through the legislative process. “The question that must be answered is why Ghanaians were encouraged to believe that former President Akufo-Addo was responsible for delaying the Bill when, by the admission of President Mahama, the Bill had not been submitted to him because of ongoing court proceedings,” Rev. Fordjour stated. The MP further contended that the matter has become even more significant following the reintroduction of the Bill to Parliament with several amendments. In his view, the extensive revisions challenge the argument that the 2024 version of the legislation was complete and only awaiting presidential assent. He questioned why Parliament did not simply reintroduce and pass the Bill in its original form if it was indeed ready to become law. “If the same Bill passed in 2024 was truly the Bill Ghanaians were told must be signed immediately, why was it not simply reintroduced and passed in the same form?” he queried. Rev. Fordjour stressed that his concerns were not merely about the substance of the Bill but also about fairness, accountability and public trust in the country's democratic institutions. He argued that public officials and advocates who strongly campaigned for the Bill have a responsibility to provide Ghanaians with a clear explanation of the legal and procedural circumstances that prevented the legislation from progressing at the time. The Assin South MP said transparency is essential in ensuring that citizens are accurately informed about matters of national importance and are not misled regarding the roles played by various state actors in the legislative process. He therefore called on the government and supporters of the legislation to offer a comprehensive account of the events surrounding the Bill, insisting that Ghanaians deserve clarity on what transpired before, during and after the legal challenges that affected its passage. Rev. Fordjour's remarks add a new dimension to the ongoing national debate over the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which continues to generate significant public interest and discussion across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Seven persons have been arrested by the Ghana Police Service in connection with the alleged theft of three unregistered Hyundai vehicles, including Elantra and Sonata models, in the Eastern Region. The arrests were carried out by the Inspector-General of Police's Special Cyber Vetting and Enforcement Team (CVET) following an intelligence-driven operation that uncovered what investigators believe to be a vehicle theft syndicate. Police sources disclosed that the operation was triggered after the owner of an unregistered Hyundai Elantra reported the vehicle missing at Nkawkaw on May 25, 2026. Using digital tracking and intelligence-gathering techniques, investigators traced the vehicle to a location at Roman Down in Asamankese. A joint operation involving officers from CVET and the Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) led to the arrest of seven suspects and the recovery of two additional vehicles suspected to have been stolen. The suspects have been identified as Acheampong Otuo Kofi, popularly known as "Levels," Kpachen Ebenezer, Fianko Isaac alias "Yaw," Besah Elizabeth, David Kudalor, Enoch Acheampong and Solomon Odei. The recovered vehicles have been secured by the police as investigations continue into the activities of the group. Authorities believe there could be more stolen vehicles linked to the suspects and say efforts are underway to locate and retrieve them. All seven suspects remain in custody and are assisting investigators with enquiries. The Police Service has meanwhile encouraged the public to provide information that could help dismantle vehicle theft and carjacking networks operating across the country. This version is substantially reworked, with a different structure, wording, and narrative flow while preserving the facts. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Chairman of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, has called for a fundamental shift in Ghana’s approach to measuring economic progress, advocating a “3D Growth” model that prioritises employment creation, wage growth, and overall improvements in living standards alongside traditional economic expansion. Speaking at the IYA Business Roundtable 2026 in Accra, Dr. Thompson argued that Ghana’s long-standing dependence on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as the primary indicator of economic performance no longer provides a complete picture of national development. According to him, economic growth should not be assessed solely by increases in output, but also by the extent to which it creates decent jobs and raises incomes for citizens. “Growth without jobs is meaningless. Growth without rising incomes is unsustainable,” he stated. Dr. Thompson explained that the proposed 3D Growth framework seeks to ensure that economic progress translates into tangible benefits for ordinary Ghanaians, particularly the thousands of young people entering the labour market each year. He warned that without a deliberate focus on jobs and incomes, economic growth risks becoming detached from the realities faced by many citizens. Highlighting structural challenges within the economy, he noted that approximately 92 percent of businesses in Ghana operate within the informal sector and account for nearly 80 percent of employment, yet contribute only about 27 percent of the country’s GDP. He stressed that achieving the objectives of the 3D Growth agenda would require sustained efforts to improve productivity, promote business formalisation, and enhance value addition across key sectors of the economy. Dr. Thompson further emphasised the need for a new approach to infrastructure development, insisting that investments should be evaluated not only by the number of projects completed but by their impact on job creation, efficiency, and long-term productivity. He identified electricity, water systems, transport and logistics, and digital infrastructure as critical enablers of economic transformation, while stressing the importance of strong institutions and consistent policy implementation. The NDPC Chairman also raised concerns about persistent weaknesses in policy execution, arguing that poor coordination between planning and implementation has slowed Ghana’s development efforts over the years. He called for stronger alignment between national development plans and budgetary allocations, as well as greater accountability within public institutions to ensure that development objectives are effectively delivered. Concluding his address, Dr. Thompson maintained that Ghana’s next stage of development must be anchored on the principles of 3D Growth, where success is measured not only by GDP expansion but also by the number of jobs created, wages improved, and living standards enhanced. Also addressing the gathering, Ishmael Yamson, Chief Executive Officer of Ishmael Yamson and Associates, challenged African leaders and businesses to move beyond discussions about the continent’s potential and focus on aggressive execution and wealth retention. He argued that Africa’s growth model remains largely extractive and cautioned against overreliance on GDP figures that often conceal underlying structural weaknesses. Mr. Yamson noted that while the extraction of natural resources may increase GDP, the benefits are often limited when profits are repatriated abroad rather than retained within African economies. He further urged businesses across the continent to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area by pursuing stronger cross-border partnerships and joint ventures capable of building globally competitive African enterprises. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for chiefs and other stakeholders involved in the sale of lands at flood-prone areas and designated green zones to be held accountable as flooding continues to threaten lives and properties. According to the Ga Mantse, strict enforcement of building regulations and local assembly bylaws remains critical in addressing the persistent destruction caused by flooding and dam spillages. Speaking during a visit on Thursday to Weija and other affected communities to assess the impact of the Weija Dam spillage on residents and businesses, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II stressed that no one should be allowed to build on waterways. The Ga Mantse was accompanied by the Greater Accra Regional Minister, the Mayor of Accra, and officials of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO). “Everything is on pause. What we are asking is that government agencies, the Regional Minister, and the MMDAs enforce the bylaws. Nobody should be allowed to build on the waterway. If it’s wrong, it’s wrong and we have to deal with it,” he stated. The Ga Mantse acknowledged that demolitions may be painful for affected residents but insisted that enforcement actions are necessary to prevent future disasters and loss of lives. “Demolitions are painful and I sympathize with affected persons, but we will have to enforce the law because these floods continue to cause loss of life. This is something we cannot control because it is nature at work,” he added. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II further urged government agencies and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to fully enforce existing bylaws, while cautioning chiefs against selling lands located in waterways and flood-prone zones. He noted that protecting waterways and preserving green areas are essential measures in reducing the devastating impact of flooding across communities. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith