In a thrilling encounter at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday, Asante Kotoko achieved a remarkable feat by completing the Ghana Premier League double over their arch-rivals Hearts of Oak for the first time since 1987. The star of the match was Steven Desse Mukwala, whose superb brace secured a 2-0 victory for the Porcupine Warriors, sending their fans into rapturous celebrations. Mukwala showcased his striking prowess early in the game, putting Kotoko ahead in the 9th minute with a deft strike that left Hearts’ goalkeeper Kwesi Nketiah helpless. The Ugandan forward continued to torment the Hearts defense, and his persistence paid off once more in stoppage time. Three minutes into injury time, Mukwala delivered a solo effort that doubled Kotoko's lead, sealing the victory and ensuring maximum points for his team. The significance of this win cannot be overstated. Earlier in the season, Kotoko had edged out Hearts with a 3-2 victory in December 2023. Sunday's win solidified coach Dr. Prosper Nartey Ogum's unbeaten record against the Phobians, as his side climbed to 9th place on the league table. The celebration in Kumasi was jubilant, with Kotoko fans reveling in their team's dominance over their historic rivals. Conversely, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow for Hearts of Oak, who are now precariously positioned just two points above the relegation zone in 14th place. With only three matches remaining in the 2023-24 Ghana Premier League season, the Phobians face an uphill battle to secure their top-flight status. Their campaign has been fraught with challenges, and this latest setback against Kotoko only compounds their woes. As Hearts of Oak made the long journey back to Accra, empty-handed and with their survival in the league hanging in the balance, Kotoko's faithful supporters continued their celebrations deep into the night, savoring a historic victory that will be remembered for years to come. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

News coming indicates that Ghanaian Actor and Movie Producer, Kwadwo Nkansah known by many in showbiz as Lil win has been involved in a severe car accident. The tragic incident occurred in the Amakrom area of Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region. In a distressing video obtained by Thinknewsonline.com, Lilwin is seen being carried out of his vehicle, unconscious. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and heartbreaking, with many fearing the worst for the actor. Although details remain sparse, the extent of Lilwin's injuries is currently unknown. The car, however, sustained significant damage, hinting at the severity of the collision. Lilwin, known for his vibrant personality and comedic talent, has brought joy to countless fans. The news of his accident has cast a somber cloud over the nation, with many taking to social media to express their shock and pray for his swift recovery. As we await further information, our thoughts are with Lilwin and his family during this incredibly difficult time. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

This Sunday afternoon, the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi will host a match that, under normal circumstances, would be the talk of the town: Asante Kotoko versus Hearts of Oak. However, this season's encounter carries a different kind of weight, with both teams struggling far below their usual dominance in the Ghana Premier League. Current Form and Standings Once towering over Ghanaian football, Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak find themselves in unfamiliar territory. Asante Kotoko, the record champions, have managed to collect only 40 points from 30 games, languishing in 10th place. Their rivals, Hearts of Oak, fare even worse, sitting in 12th with 38 points. Both teams are fighting to steer clear of the relegation zone, making every remaining game crucial. Battle Against Relegation The spectre of relegation haunts these giants. Hearts of Oak hover just five points above the danger zone, while Kotoko have a slightly more comfortable seven-point cushion. With the season nearing its end, every point matters in avoiding an unprecedented fall from grace. Recent Performance and H2H Record Historically, Hearts of Oak hold a slight edge in their head-to-head record over the last 31 matches, boasting 11 wins compared to Kotoko's 9, with 11 draws. However, Kotoko triumphed in their last clash, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory. Both teams know that past performances mean little in the face of current challenges. Tactical Insights and Key Statistics This matchup promises to be a tactical battle. Kotoko tend to strike late, scoring 28.6% of their goals between the 75th and 90th minutes—a period where Hearts of Oak are most vulnerable, having conceded 23.3% of their goals. Kotoko's average possession of 51.70% slightly edges Hearts of Oak's 50.95%, hinting at a potentially balanced midfield duel. In terms of set-pieces, Kotoko average 4.53 corners per match to Hearts of Oak's 3.53. Key Players to Watch Kotoko's hopes will hinge on their ability to capitalise late in the game, leveraging their knack for scoring in the dying minutes. For Hearts of Oak, a tightened defence during this critical period will be essential to stave off Kotoko's attacks. Final Thoughts Despite the low anticipation surrounding this fixture, the stakes have never been higher. Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak are battling not just for pride, but for their very survival in the league. A win could provide a much-needed boost in confidence and a step away from the relegation abyss. This clash at Baba Yara Stadium is more than just a game; it's a pivotal moment that could define the future trajectory of these storied clubs. Fans may be disillusioned, but the drama of football ensures that this encounter remains a must-watch for anyone who cherishes the beautiful game. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Fear and anxiety have gripped the community of Maame Krobo Nkwanta following the gruesome discovery of two beheaded male adults, identified as herdsmen. The horrific incident has left residents in a state of shock and has raised concerns about potential reprisal attacks. The mutilated bodies of the victims were discovered in a nearby bush by the brother of one of the deceased. Initial reports from the scene indicate that the victims had gunshot wounds on their backs, adding a chilling dimension to the already heinous crime. The motive behind these brutal murders remains shrouded in mystery. The violent nature of the deaths has led to widespread speculation and fear within the community. Residents, already on edge, are worried about the possibility of retaliatory violence, which could further destabilize the area. In response to the incident, law enforcement officers swiftly arrived at the scene to document evidence and initiate an investigation. Authorities have intensified their presence in the area, with active patrols aimed at maintaining peace and preventing any escalation of violence. Additional reinforcements have been requested to bolster security efforts and reassure the frightened populace. Local leaders and community elders are urging calm and are working with law enforcement to prevent further bloodshed. However, the palpable tension in the air underscores the urgent need for a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore a sense of security among the residents. As the investigation unfolds, the people of Maame Krobo Nkwanta are left to grapple with the aftermath of this shocking act of violence. The community, known for its peaceful coexistence, now finds itself at a crossroads, hoping for swift action from the authorities to resolve the situation and prevent further tragedy. The tragic deaths of these two herdsmen highlight the fragile nature of peace in rural communities and the devastating impact of violence. As the story develops, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, community solidarity, and the rule of law in maintaining order and protecting lives. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana has sanctioned a significant financial boost for the National Investment Bank (NIB), approving GH¢2.3 billion towards its restructuring and recapitalization. This initiative aims to revitalize the bank’s operations and ensure its long-term financial viability. Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam announced the approval during the Ministry of Finance’s monthly briefing. He disclosed that the first tranche of GH¢400 million is slated to be transferred to the bank before the end of May 2024. “Ladies and gentlemen, as part of the implementation of the PC-PEG, the Cabinet has approved the plan for restructuring and recapitalization of the National Investment Bank (NIB)" "This will involve a programmed equity injection of about GH¢2.3 billion over the next 12 months, with the first tranche of GH¢400 million expected to be transferred to NIB before the end of this month,” Dr. Amin Adam stated. The Finance Minister detailed the comprehensive plan for NIB, which includes strengthening its governance structure and operational efficiency. “The plan also includes measures to strengthen the governance structure and operational efficiency, enhance supervision, and improve risk management to improve and sustain the financial viability of NIB,” he elaborated. This move comes amidst previous allegations from the Minority Caucus in Parliament, who in September 2023 accused the government of attempting to sell NIB to its cronies under the guise of restructuring. The Caucus had raised concerns following announcements of potential plans to either merge NIB with the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) or dissolve it. “It is clear that this is not about the interest of NIB. This is the last step towards passing through the back door to acquire NIB and ADB for themselves in a state capture,” asserted Isaac Adongo, a prominent member of the Minority Caucus, during a press briefing. Despite these allegations, the government maintains that the restructuring and recapitalization efforts are in the best interest of NIB and the broader financial sector. The initiative is part of the broader Post-COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG), which seeks to stabilize and enhance the country’s economic landscape. The approval of the GH¢2.3 billion funding is a strategic move to restore confidence in NIB’s operations, ensuring it remains a key player in Ghana’s banking sector. The injection of capital and the accompanying reforms are expected to fortify NIB’s position, enabling it to better serve its customers and contribute to national economic growth. The restructuring plan signifies the government's commitment to bolstering financial institutions and underscores its broader efforts to promote economic stability and growth. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana's Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has urged the public to avoid panic-buying foreign exchange amidst recent volatility in the Cedi's value. Speaking at the Ministry of Finance’s Monthly Economic Update on Friday, Dr. Amin Adam attributed the current exchange rate pressures to a strengthening US Dollar, seasonal forex demand, and other temporary factors. He emphasized that the government is enacting robust measures to stabilize the currency. “There is no need to rush and buy forex,” Dr. Amin Adam stated, noting that Ghana anticipates significant inflows of foreign exchange by the end of the year, which will bolster the Cedi's stability. He detailed that a minimum of $2.32 billion is expected from various sources, including disbursements from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, the Gold-for-Oil Programme, the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) Gold for Reserves programme, and proceeds from the Cocoa Syndicated Funds. “We expect total disbursements of at least $2.32 billion before the end of the year to add to the significant foreign exchange reserves already built up by the BoG,” he affirmed. Despite acknowledging the recent pressures on the Cedi, Dr. Amin Adam expressed optimism about medium-term stability. He highlighted that the Cedi's cumulative depreciation stood at 14.2% as of May 20, 2024, an improvement from the 20.7% depreciation recorded in the same period in 2023. The Minister projected that the Cedi would remain largely stable and potentially improve as the government completes its debt restructuring, advances fiscal consolidation, and enhances the country's foreign reserves. Additionally, Dr. Amin Adam reviewed the progress made under the IMF-Supported Post-COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG). Following a successful second review by the IMF in April 2024, Ghana secured a Staff Level Agreement (SLA), positioning the country for the IMF Executive Board's approval of a third tranche disbursement of $360 million in June. This would bring total disbursements under the program to $1.56 billion. “The positive results of the first and second reviews of the implementation of the IMF-supported Programme testify that we are achieving the Programme’s objective of restoring macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability,” he remarked. Dr. Amin Adam also highlighted the resilience of Ghana’s economy, noting a 2.9% GDP growth in 2023, which exceeded the original projection of 1.5% and the revised projection of 2.3%. To address the perennial depreciation of the Cedi, the Ministry of Finance is collaborating closely with the BoG on several initiatives. These include fast-tracking fiscal consolidation, intensifying the Gold-for-Oil and Gold for Reserves programmes, and implementing strategic forex interventions. The Finance Minister’s reassurances aim to calm the markets and the public, promoting confidence in the government's economic management strategies amidst ongoing challenges. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a landmark move towards combating deforestation and forest degradation, Ghana's Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission have signed an Emissions Reductions Purchase Agreement (ERPA) with Tullow Oil. This agreement, heralded at a ceremony in Accra, represents a significant milestone in Ghana's commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, MP, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, praised the agreement as a "bold and ambitious" initiative that underscores Ghana's leadership in addressing the global challenge of climate change. He highlighted the importance of fair pricing for carbon credits, stating that this partnership sets a new benchmark for carbon pricing in the region. The ERPA forms a crucial part of Ghana's broader strategy to promote sustainable forest management and reduce deforestation and forest degradation. Notable progress has been made through initiatives like the Ghana Cocoa Forest REDD+ Program and the Ghana Shea Landscape Emission Reductions Project. This new partnership with Tullow is anticipated to generate significant revenue for local communities and bolster Ghana's climate change mitigation efforts. Madam Julia Ross, Tullow's Director for People & Sustainability, outlined the project's scope, which includes the use of over two million hectares of land for tree planting and other carbon credit innovations. She emphasized Tullow's commitment to zero carbon emissions, with over $40 million invested to date. Madam Ross also highlighted the socio-economic benefits of the project, pledging ongoing engagement with the Forestry Commission and other stakeholders to ensure its success. British High Commissioner, Her Excellency Harriet Thompson, expressed pride in Ghana's dedication to curtailing forest degradation and mitigating climate change. She noted the British Government's support and viewed this agreement as a precursor to further successes. Madam Thompson commended Tullow and the Forestry Commission, urging other organizations to follow their lead, stating, "Doing this is good for business, good for the climate, and good for the people." Forestry Commission CEO, John Allotey provided additional details, noting that the agreement will span a decade and position the Commission as a major source of approved and reliable carbon credits. He highlighted the extensive, dedicated engagements between the Commission and Tullow that culminated in this agreement. Mr. Allotey emphasized the Commission's commitment to producing high-integrity carbon credits appealing to the international market. Deputy Minister for Energy and MP for Mpohor Constituency, Hon. John Kwabena Abbam Aboah Sanie, on behalf of the Minister of Energy, commended the Forestry Commission and Tullow for their collaborative efforts. He expressed optimism that the Forestry Commission & Tullow REDD+ Project will achieve outstanding results. The ceremony also featured congratulatory statements from traditional authorities and civil society representatives, all applauding the Forestry Commission and Tullow for their dedication to this vital cause. This historic agreement not only showcases Ghana's proactive stance on environmental protection but also sets an inspiring example for other nations in the fight against climate change. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Actress and Entrepreneur, Precious Fella Makafui has been allegedly arrested, according to a statement released by iSpyGh. Her arrest was facilitated by investigative documentary filmmaking firm, ISPYGH 247, in collaboration with the Pharmacy Council Ghana. She was arrested on Wednesday, May 22,2024 for engaging in unlawful activities related to the sale of unregistered drugs. Her crime also includes false advertising, and the dissemination of unapproved adverts by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) After a six-month surveillance operation monitoring Fella’s social media posts on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, Akwasi Koranteng, the lead investigator and his team of undercover journalists from ISPYGH 247 gathered evidence of her illegal activities. Following her arrest, 16 different products including Fertility Tea (Fibroid And Womb Tea), Butt And Hips Enlargement Syrup, Butt And Hip Enlargement Oil, Booty Cream, Booty Scrub, Hip And Big Butt Tea, Breast Firming And Enlargement Cream were confiscated. Other products confiscated from her shop in Mempeasem were Vagina Detox Pearls, Male Sexual Vitality Tea, Spice Herbal Infection Mixture, Yoni Wash Gel, Orgasmic Gel, Weight Gain Syrup, Spice Coded Powder, Tiger Herbal Mixture and Sweet Dr In a statement issued, the investigators said Fella admitted that most of the drugs she sold were not registered with the FDA. She was subsequently granted bail pending further investigation. This joint operation aims to protect the public from harmful and unapproved products, ensuring adherence to pharmaceutical regulations and upholding standards of pharmaceutical care. Credit: Pulse GH

The High Court in Accra has sentenced Clara Yanyi-Ampah, a trained nurse and caregiver, to five years in prison for the manslaughter of an 11-month-old infant in May 2021. Madam Yanyi-Ampah, initially charged with murder, faced the lesser charge of manslaughter following the Attorney General's advice. This charge stemmed from an incident at a school in Agbogba, near Accra, where she force-fed the infant, leading to fatal asphyxiation. The case began in the Adentan District Court before being transferred to the High Court. During the trial, Yanyi-Ampah changed her plea to guilty after a plea-bargain agreement with the Attorney General's Office, which recommended a five-year sentence. Senior State Attorney Mercy Arthur led the prosecution, which revealed that the infant, in good health upon arrival at the school on May 8, 2021, became unresponsive while being fed by Yanyi-Ampah. CCTV footage showed Yanyi-Ampah forcefully feeding the baby and improperly handling her, contrary to school guidelines. A subsequent postmortem confirmed the baby’s death was due to asphyxiation caused by the forced feeding. Justice Marie-Louise Simmons, who presided over the case, took into account Yanyi-Ampah's time in detention since her arrest in May 2021, her lack of a prior criminal record, and her expression of remorse. However, the judge condemned her reckless disregard for human life. The court's decision marks a significant moment of justice for the grieving parents and highlights the critical importance of proper caregiving practices. Story by: #ThinkNewsOnline.com

In a recent development, the Dansoman Court has granted bail to Hopeson Adorye, a prominent member of the Movement for Change political party. Mr. Adorye, who has been at the center of significant media attention, was granted bail set at GHc20,000. The conditions of his bail require two sureties to guarantee his compliance with the court’s orders. The court proceedings attracted a considerable crowd, including supporters of Adorye and members of the public, reflecting the high-profile nature of the case. The specifics of the charges against Adorye were not disclosed in the bail hearing, but the case has evidently sparked widespread interest. Hopeson Adorye, known for his active role in the Movement for Change, has been vocal in the political arena, often engaging in robust debates and advocacy. His legal troubles have, therefore, been a subject of keen observation among political analysts and the general populace alike. In granting the bail, the presiding judge emphasized the importance of adhering to the conditions set forth, underscoring the legal obligations of the sureties. The bail arrangement aims to ensure that Adorye remains accessible to the court for the continuation of the legal process. As the case progresses, it is anticipated that further details will emerge, shedding light on the allegations against Adorye and the subsequent legal proceedings. For now, Hopeson Adorye remains free on bail, awaiting the next steps in the judicial process. This case continues to develop, and it remains a significant point of interest within Ghana’s political and legal spheres. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has updated the public on the safety of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, following renewed concerns. The vaccine, marketed as Covishield and Vaxzevria, was among the six COVID-19 vaccines granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA in February 2021. The EUA allows essential medical products to be available swiftly during public health emergencies, ensuring their safety, quality, and efficacy through a stringent, expedited process. Throughout the vaccine rollout, the FDA’s Joint COVID-19 Vaccine Safety Review Committee (JCVSRC) monitored adverse events both locally and globally. Reports of side effects, including thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS), were anticipated and managed according to national procedures. TTS, a rare condition linked to adenoviral COVID-19 vaccines such as AstraZeneca’s Vaxzevria and Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen, typically manifests between 4 and 42 days post-vaccination. The estimated risk of TTS after the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine is approximately 2 per 100,000 people, with higher rates in individuals under 60. This risk decreases significantly after the second dose. By the end of March 2024, 10,545,038 people in Ghana had received the AstraZeneca vaccine. The FDA investigated 4,149 reports of adverse events following immunization (AEFIs), with no cases of thrombosis with TTS reported. The EUA for AstraZeneca vaccines in Ghana expired in May 2023, coinciding with the de-escalation of COVID-19 as a global public health emergency. Globally, AstraZeneca’s manufacturers have ceased production of the vaccine due to the development of new vaccines targeting emerging COVID-19 strains. Despite the suspension of AstraZeneca vaccine production, the FDA continues to vigilantly monitor the safety of all vaccines used in Ghana. This is done through the FDA’s Safety Monitoring Department and its Technical Advisory Committee on Safety of Vaccines and Biological Products. During the pandemic, the JCVSRC collaborated with the Ghana Health Service’s Expanded Programme on Immunization to oversee vaccine safety. The JCVSRC suspended its regular meetings in 2023 as the number of adverse event reports declined alongside reduced vaccine uptake. The FDA reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of all regulated products. Should any product pose an unacceptable risk, the FDA pledges to take swift regulatory action to protect public health. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Independent Presidential Candidate and leader of the Alliance for Revolutionary Change, Alan Kyerematen, has visited Hopeson Adorye in custody. Hopeson Adorye was arrested and detained at the Ministries Police Station on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. He was arrested for allegedly confessing to detonating a dynamite in the Volta Region in the course of the 2016 general elections. The former Member of Parliament for Adentan, Yaw Buaben Asamoa, described the arrest as politically motivated. Alan Kyerematen was accompanied by Boniface Abubakari Saddique, Yaw Buabeng Asamoah, Kofi Kapito, Alhaji Haruna Tafsiru Warlord, Ken Kuranchie, and other members of the Movement for Change. Speaking after the visit, Buaben Asamoa said the allegations against Hopeson Adorye are false and unfair. “Hopeson Adorye is not about to run away from Ghana or from his home because the police intend to charge him with the publication of false information. So to go to the extent of keeping him all day in the police station and bringing him over to the Ministries to detain him, you point fingers backwards at yourself that there is something political at play and it is not fair,” he said. Hopeson Adorye’s arrest came after an interview he granted Accra FM on May 10 in which he claimed to be part of an orchestration that detonated a dynamite in the Volta Region to intimidate voters in the stronghold of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to pave the way for a New Patriotic Party (NPP) win. He is alleged to have said, “Prior to the elections, we blasted dynamite in parts of the Volta Region, and that scared a number of people. When I finished casting my ballot in Tema, I drove to the Volta Region, and when I asked for the number of people who had voted and the expected number of voters, it turned out people did not come out to vote.” Credit: Citinewsonline