The Ministry of Finance has firmly dismissed recent reports circulating in the media that claim the government is engaging in debt restructuring discussions with private banks and local contractors. According to the Ministry, these claims are entirely unfounded and misleading. In an official statement issued by the Public Relations Unit, the Ministry clarified that no such restructuring has been contemplated, either during or after the completion of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), which began in December 2022 and concluded in October 2023. The Ministry explained that during a Monthly Press Briefing on the Economy held on August 29, 2024, a question regarding external commercial debt restructuring was misconstrued to imply that local contractors’ payments were also subject to restructuring. However, the Ministry emphasized that debt restructuring pertains solely to Ghana's stock of debt, including loans and bonds, and does not apply to payment obligations to domestic contractors. “Domestic contractors' liabilities are payment claims, not loans or bonds, and are therefore not eligible for restructuring under any circumstances,” the statement read. The Ministry also highlighted that no discussions or engagements have taken place with contractors regarding debt restructuring, a fact corroborated by contractors themselves in a recent interview with JoyNews. The Ministry further noted that the completed DDEP covered only domestic bonds held by the Central Bank, Pension Funds, and retail debt investors, with no impact on contractors’ payments. Looking ahead, the Ministry detailed the progress made in restructuring external debt, including the successful completion of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Official Creditor Committee under the G20 Common Framework, the launch of the Consent and Exchange Solicitation process for Eurobond debt, and ongoing engagements with external commercial creditors. The Ministry urged the public to disregard the misleading reports and continue supporting the government's efforts to stabilize the economy through responsible debt management. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

LA Galaxy forward, Joseph Paintsil has been compelled to withdraw from Ghana’s squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Niger due to passport complications . The withdrawal, confirmed by the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has raised concerns about Ghana’s chances of securing vital points in the qualification campaign. Paintsil, who played briefly in Ghana’s 1-0 loss to Angola in Kumasi last Thursday, had rejoined the national team with high hopes. However, his plans were thwarted by unresolved passport issues, forcing him to remain in Accra while the rest of the squad traveled to Morocco for the crucial match. The GFA stated, "Twenty-three players made the trip after Joseph Paintsil pulled out due to passport issues." This setback is a blow to Ghana's hopes, as Paintsil’s absence could impact the team’s performance against Niger on Monday at the RS Berkane Stadium. The situation also underscores the recurring challenges African players face regarding travel documentation, with Paintsil having missed a World Cup qualifier in 2020 for similar reasons. As the Black Stars prepare to face Niger, coach Otto Addo will need to adjust his strategy to compensate for the loss of one of his most experienced players. Despite this obstacle, the team remains focused on securing a win to keep their AFCON qualification hopes alive. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Bernard Anbaayatela Mornah has been elected as the Flagbearer of the People’s National Convention (PNC) for the upcoming 2024 general elections. The election, which took place during the PNC Delegates Conference on Saturday, saw Mornah securing a decisive victory over his main rival, David Apesera. Mr. Mornah, a former Chairman of the PNC, garnered 1,354 votes, outstripping Apesera, who managed to secure 216 votes. This overwhelming support from the delegates marks a strong endorsement of Mornah's leadership and political acumen. In his victory speech, Mornah expressed his gratitude and called for unity within the party. He emphasized his commitment to working for the betterment of all Ghanaians, promising a revolutionary presidency that would focus on the needs of the people. He also highlighted his intention to ensure that local dialects gain recognition as national languages under his leadership. "I stand before you, humbled and grateful, as the newly elected Flagbearer of the great PNC," Mornah declared. "This victory is not mine alone, but a testament to the tireless efforts of our campaign team, volunteers, supporters, and you, the cherished delegates." Mr. Mornah vowed to kickstart the campaign immediately, acknowledging that the PNC may be behind in its campaign efforts but expressing confidence in his ability to make up for lost time. He underscored his vision for a Ghana where every citizen has access to quality education, affordable healthcare, and ample job opportunities. The PNC Congress faced a brief delay due to a reported injunction from Apesera's camp, but the party swiftly resolved the matter, allowing the election to proceed. Additionally, in the contest for the party's chairmanship, Samson Asaki Awingobit emerged victorious, defeating Hajia Hajara Ali, the acting Chair of the PNC. As the newly elected Flagbearer, Mr. Mornah is set to lead the PNC into the December 2024 elections, with a promise to listen to the concerns of Ghanaians, amplify their voices, and fight for their rights. His leadership, he asserts, will be "Ghanaian-centered" and focused on addressing the pressing challenges of the nation, including issues like galamsey, climate change, corruption, and inequality. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In the early hours of Saturday, tragedy struck at Spot M near Tantra Hill in Accra, as a fierce fire consumed 50 wooden structures and metal containers, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded to the emergency at 1:43 a.m., with fire crews from Anyaa, Legon, and Adjen Kotoku Stations battling tirelessly to bring the inferno under control. After hours of intense effort, the blaze was finally extinguished at 6:19 a.m., with no injuries reported. Despite the best efforts of the firefighters, the fire left behind a scene of utter desolation. The shops, once bustling with activity and providing livelihoods for many, were reduced to ashes along with their contents. The loss is profound, as traders and shop owners now face the harsh reality of having their sources of income wiped out in a single night. While nearby buildings, including homes, a church, and uncompleted structures, were miraculously spared from the flames, the emotional and economic toll on the affected traders is immense. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ernest Owusu-Bempah Bonsu, has emphasized that the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, transcends political affiliations and requires a collective national effort. Speaking on an Accra-based radio station, Owusu-Bempah underscored the complexities of tackling galamsey, stressing that the issue is not one that can be resolved by the Akufo-Addo administration alone, but demands the commitment and collaboration of every Ghanaian. Mr. Owusu-Bempah highlighted the origins of the galamsey crisis, pointing out that the use of chanfan machines, a key tool in illegal mining operations, first appeared in Ghana between 2013 and 2015 under the leadership of former President John Mahama. He also accused Mahama’s administration of allowing individuals like Aisha Heung to institutionalize galamsey, leading to its proliferation across the country. "To effectively combat galamsey, we need more than just political rhetoric; we need a bold leader with the initiative to act and citizens who are willing to support the cause," Owusu-Bempah stated. He added that while President Akufo-Addo has made significant efforts to address the galamsey menace, the success of these initiatives has been hindered by local resistance and the vested interests of some community leaders. He criticized the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for undermining the fight against galamsey for political gain, claiming that their actions during the 2020 elections led to the loss of critical mining areas for the NPP. According to Owusu-Bempah, NDC communicators, including their flagbearer, misled communities involved in illegal mining by portraying galamsey as beneficial, despite its detrimental impact on the environment and local livelihoods. "The fight against galamsey is a national issue that requires the cooperation of both the ruling party and the opposition. In civilized democracies, when it comes to national interest, all parties work together to achieve common goals. Unfortunately, this has not been the case in Ghana," he lamented. Mr. Owusu-Bempah urged Ghanaians to recognize the severity of the galamsey crisis and support the government’s efforts to eradicate it. He called on political leaders across the spectrum to prioritize national interest over political expediency, stressing that the protection of the country’s natural resources should be a unifying cause for all Ghanaians. Mr. Owusu-Bempah reiterated that while the Akufo-Addo administration has made strides in the fight against galamsey, the success of these efforts ultimately depends on the collective will of the people. "The willpower is there, and the President has done his part. Now it is up to all of us, as citizens, to do ours," he said. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a move aimed at streamlining regulatory processes and enhancing customer service, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has launched its much-anticipated Online Advertisement Application Portal. The launch, held at the T.C. Corquaye Conference Room within the FDA offices in Accra, marks a significant stride in the Authority's digital transformation journey, promising to redefine how advertisements for FDA-regulated products are submitted, reviewed, and approved across the nation. The FDA, operating under the mandate of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), has long been at the forefront of regulating product advertisements, ensuring that all promotional materials meet stringent standards before reaching the public. However, the traditional processes, often characterized by physical submissions and in-person visits, have sometimes posed challenges for businesses and stakeholders seeking timely approvals. With the introduction of the new online portal, businesses can now submit their advertisements, complete necessary payments, and receive approvals—all from the comfort of their homes or offices. This digital innovation not only eliminates the need for physical visits to FDA offices but also significantly reduces the time and resources spent on these processes. During the launch, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Dr. Delese Darko said "This platform is more than just a technological upgrade; it represents our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and placing our customers at the heart of our operations," "It’s a bold step towards making our regulatory processes more accessible, transparent, and efficient." The portal also offers a clear, traceable record of all transactions and communications, ensuring transparency and accountability on both sides of the regulatory process. Stakeholders can now track the status of their applications in real-time, making the approval process more predictable and reliable. The development of this portal was a collaborative effort, involving the expertise of Proper-Alliance, an affiliate of the AFCTA Network Hub, alongside other key stakeholders. Their combined efforts have resulted in a platform that not only meets the current needs of the industry but is also adaptable to future technological advancements. "This is just one of the many initiatives we are implementing to support and promote a safe, transparent, and efficient regulatory environment in Ghana," the CEO added, expressing optimism about the platform’s potential to drive positive change in the industry. As the FDA continues to embrace digital solutions, the new Online Advertisement Application Portal is expected to significantly impact how businesses operate, potentially setting a precedent for other regulatory bodies in the region. The launch concluded with a call to all stakeholders to embrace the new platform and join the FDA in its mission to ensure the highest standards of product quality and safety across Ghana. With this innovation, the FDA is not just keeping pace with the times but is poised to lead the charge in regulatory excellence in the digital age. This version highlights the significance of the portal's launch, the challenges it addresses, and its broader impact on the industry, making it more engaging for readers interested in health and regulatory developments. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

At just 24 years old, Rapper NBA YoungBoy, born Kentrell Gaulden, has become a father for the twelfth time. The Louisiana-born artist welcomed his newest addition with his tenth baby mama, continuing his trend of making headlines for his rapidly growing family. NBA YoungBoy's prolific music career has been paralleled by his equally notable personal life, where he has fathered a dozen children with multiple women. Despite his young age, the rapper has embraced fatherhood and frequently shares glimpses of his life with his children on social media. The identity of the latest mother remains private, reflecting a pattern in NBA YoungBoy's life where details about his relationships often emerge gradually. This news comes as the rapper continues to release music and maintain a significant presence in the rap industry. NBA YoungBoy’s personal life has been as turbulent as his music, with frequent legal battles and public scrutiny. Yet, he remains one of the most streamed artists in the genre, known for his raw and emotional lyrics that often reflect his complex life experiences. With his latest child, NBA YoungBoy's unique legacy as both a father and an artist continues to unfold. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a sharp rebuttal to recent remarks by Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, Vice Presidential Candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), that "even God takes a rest at night," Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam George, has responded, declaring that the God he serves neither sleeps nor slumbers. During a recent political gathering, Dr. Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, implied that taking breaks or resting, even in leadership roles, is not unusual by referencing that "even God rests at night." This remark, however, did not sit well with Sam George, who was quick to challenge Napo’s understanding of divine nature. In a social media post, the outspoken legislator questioned the basis of Napo’s statement, writing, “So at this time, was the god he was worshipping awake or asleep?” He further emphasized his belief in a God who "watches over His own at all times with jealousy" and never rests. "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks," George added, subtly hinting that Napo’s comments reflected his personal beliefs, rather than universal truth. He continued by remarking that "we all serve different things," suggesting that the interpretation of God’s characteristics might differ from person to person, especially when seen through political lenses. Sam George's response has since sparked widespread debate on social media, with many Ghanaians weighing in on the theological and political dimensions of the exchange. This latest clash adds to the growing political tensions between members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly as both parties gear up for the 2024 general elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Electoral Commission (EC) has turned down a request from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to broadcast live its presentation of observations on discrepancies found in the Provisional Voters Register (PVR). The NDC's request, outlined in a letter dated September 4, 2024, sought to publicly air the discussions regarding identified issues with the PVR. In a formal response, the EC acknowledged the party’s concerns but maintained that such discrepancies, including missing names, misplaced voters, and duplicate images, are part of the standard corrections addressed through the Voters Exhibition Exercise. The Commission emphasized that the exercise is designed to identify and resolve such issues ahead of the 2024 General Election, and that the NDC’s findings are not unusual in this context. While reiterating its commitment to free, fair, and transparent elections, the EC explained that it does not support the idea of a live broadcast for the meeting, which is meant to discuss the NDC's observations on the register. Instead, the EC has invited the NDC to meet at the agreed time, stating that the commission's team is ready to engage. The EC remains focused on ensuring a credible electoral roll and has assured the public that the necessary measures are being taken to address discrepancies before the general elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana, in collaboration with the Global Health Policy Program (GHPP), has recently concluded a month-long study visit aimed at enhancing pharmaceutical regulation across Africa. The initiative brought together regulators from The Gambia, Liberia, and Sierra Leone for hands-on training to strengthen public health systems in the region. Welcoming the participants, FDA Ghana’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to fostering regional collaboration. She emphasized the importance of strong regulatory frameworks to safeguard public health and urged continued partnerships to address Africa’s health challenges. The training, led by FDA Ghana’s experts, focused on practical, real-world applications to ensure that medicines in the region meet the highest standards. Participants praised the hands-on approach, with Musa from Sierra Leone highlighting the clarity and accessibility of the sessions. Mr. Tijan Jallow, Director of Operations at The Gambia’s Medicines Control Agency, commended the laboratory training as transformative, noting that FDA Ghana’s openness would enhance public health outcomes across the region. Throughout the visit, FDA Ghana’s leadership in regional public health was evident. The Authority’s expertise helped strengthen regulatory frameworks in the participating countries. Mr. Karikari-Boateng, Director of FDA’s Center for Laboratory Services and Research, encouraged trainees to maintain close ties with FDA Ghana as they implement their new skills. The study visit also laid the foundation for stronger collaborations in the future. Mrs. Andrea, the GHPP team lead, expressed gratitude for the partnership and emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation to achieve shared healthcare goals across Africa. Reflecting on the program, Mr. Jallow stressed the value of regional collaboration in minimizing the risks associated with substandard medicines, noting that no single country can combat public health challenges alone. The successful completion of the GHPP study visit at FDA Ghana marks a significant step in strengthening regulatory capacity across Africa. As participants return to their home countries, they bring with them the knowledge and partnerships needed to drive positive change, ensuring FDA Ghana’s impact extends far beyond its borders. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Aflao Sector Command of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has intercepted 45 gallons of petrol being smuggled into Togo. The successful operation occurred last Wednesday during routine patrols at Pillar 12, an unapproved route along the border. Acting on intelligence, a patrol team led by Assistant Superintendent of Immigration (ASI) Richmond Wuntah Awuni discovered the smuggled fuel hidden in an uncompleted building near the border. The operation comes in the wake of a recent directive from the Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI), Kwame Asuah Takyi (Esq), who instructed all border commanders to intensify patrols as part of efforts to secure Ghana’s borders in light of growing threats of terrorism and cross-border crimes. The seized fuel has been handed over to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) as investigations continue to identify and apprehend those involved in the smuggling operation. In a statement, the GIS cautioned residents along the border to avoid allowing their properties to be used for illegal activities that could jeopardize national security. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana suffered a last-minute defeat to Angola in their AFCON 2025 qualifying match held at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Thursday. Angola scored the only goal of the game in the 92nd minute, sealing a dramatic 1-0 victory over the Black Stars. The defeat places Ghana in third position in their qualifying group, a setback in their journey to secure a spot in the 2025 African Cup of Nations, which will be hosted by Morocco. Despite dominating possession for most of the match, Ghana was unable to convert its chances, while Angola took full advantage of a late opportunity to snatch all three points. The Black Stars will look to bounce back in their next match as they face Niger on Monday, in what is now a must-win game for Ghana to keep their qualification hopes alive. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith