The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), Ing. Mark Awuah, on Wednesday led a delegation of Board members and Management to pay a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II. The visit was aimed at formally introducing the leadership of GRIDCo to the King, while also expressing gratitude to God for preserving his life following a recent accident. Addressing the Ga Mantse and his elders, Ing. Awuah expressed appreciation to the King for granting them audience and used the opportunity to outline GRIDCo’s role in Ghana’s power sector. “On behalf of the Board and Management, we want to thank the King for receiving us. I will briefly give a snapshot of who we are and what we do for Ghana,” he stated. He explained that GRIDCo, established in 2008, is one of the youngest institutions in Ghana’s energy sector, having been carved out of the Volta River Authority (VRA). Prior to this restructuring, VRA handled power generation, transmission, and distribution in some parts of the country. According to him, the separation became necessary following government’s decision in 1994 to introduce private sector participation in power generation. “To allow private sector participation, the transmission network could not remain in the hands of a competing entity. So government separated the transmission function to ensure a level playing field for all power producers,” he explained. Ing. Awuah noted that GRIDCo’s core mandate is to operate a fair and open transmission system that enables all power generators to access the national grid without discrimination. He further clarified the company’s role within the electricity value chain, describing GRIDCo as a “bulk transporter” of power. “The electricity you receive is generated by power producers and purchased by ECG. ECG then relies on us to transport it through our network to their substations for distribution to consumers,” he said. Touching on operations in the Greater Accra Region, the CEO revealed that GRIDCo operates about six major substations, including facilities at Dzorwulu near Achimota, Mallam, and Accra Central. He emphasized that Greater Accra alone accounts for nearly 40 percent of Ghana’s electricity consumption, underscoring the critical importance of GRIDCo’s work in the region. Ing. Awuah also highlighted the need for land and right-of-way corridors for transmission lines, stressing the importance of collaboration with traditional authorities and local communities. “At the end of the day, we work closely with chiefs and communities to ensure safety and reliability in power delivery,” he noted. He said the visit was necessary to deepen ties with the Ga Traditional Council and to help the King better appreciate the role GRIDCo plays in ensuring stable electricity supply. “We deemed it fit to pay homage to the King, to present ourselves, and to appreciate the cooperation we have enjoyed from chieftaincy and all stakeholders in helping us deliver power to the city,” he added. On his part, Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, underscored the critical need for leadership and institutions to prioritize the future of Ghana’s youth, warning that failure to deliver on national responsibilities would have far-reaching consequences for generations yet unborn. He made these remarks when the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Grid Company, Ing. Mark Awuah, led a delegation of Board members and Management to pay a courtesy call on him. Responding to the delegation, the Ga Mantse emphasized that the stakes of governance and national development go beyond the present generation. “If we fail as a government and as a people, then we have failed generations upon generations. The future of our youth and our children is paramount, and we must go out of our way to secure it,” he stated. The King called for deliberate efforts to build a prosperous and inclusive future that empowers young people and gives them a sense of purpose and relevance in society. According to him, creating opportunities for the youth to thrive and leave meaningful legacies should be a shared responsibility among institutions, government agencies, and development partners. “We must build a future of prosperity that changes the narrative and makes our young people relevant. They need opportunities and platforms that will enable them to leave a legacy,” he stressed. The Ga Mantse further urged GRIDCo and other stakeholders to deepen collaboration with traditional authorities, noting that national development requires collective effort across multiple sectors. He highlighted the importance of partnerships not only in the energy sector but also in areas such as healthcare, infrastructure, and social development programmes. “This is not limited to one sector. We need partnerships across the board—health, infrastructure, and all development programmes—to ensure we deliver meaningful impact,” he added. The visit formed part of efforts by GRIDCo’s leadership to strengthen ties with traditional authorities and enhance collaboration in the delivery of reliable electricity across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has expressed concerns over what he describes as inconsistencies in the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and President John Dramani Mahama’s handling of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Speaking at a press conference at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) headquarters in Asylum Down on Tuesday, Rev. Fordjour suggested that the NDC’s approach to the controversial legislation appears to have evolved since the party assumed office. “We have invited you to address a matter of national importance—one that raises questions about consistency and clarity in the handling of a sensitive national issue,” he told journalists. Rev. Fordjour, who identified himself as a sponsor of the 2021 private member’s bill, recalled that the legislation previously enjoyed support from lawmakers across the political divide, including members of the NDC. He noted that at the time, the bill was widely framed as reflecting the cultural and religious values of many Ghanaians. According to him, the NDC’s stance while in opposition was both strong and visible, with the party actively engaging various stakeholders and criticizing the then-government’s approach to the matter. He further indicated that during the 2024 election campaign, former President Mahama made public commitments regarding the bill, emphasizing Ghana’s sovereignty in determining its laws. However, Rev. Fordjour observed that the tone of engagement appears to have shifted since the NDC returned to power in 2025. He cited remarks attributed to President Mahama suggesting that, following the expiration of the previous Parliament, a new government-sponsored bill—developed through broader stakeholder consultation—might be more appropriate than the earlier private member’s initiative. Rev. Fordjour described this as a transition from a more assertive advocacy approach to a more consultative and measured one, possibly influenced by legal, constitutional, and international considerations. Despite subsequent indications that the President could assent to the bill if duly passed, the MP suggested that the urgency previously associated with the legislation appears to have reduced. He referenced comments attributed to President Mahama on March 31, 2026, indicating that the administration is currently prioritizing other pressing national needs, with the bill not seen as an immediate priority. Rev. Fordjour questioned whether this shift aligns with the earlier emphasis placed on the issue, calling for greater clarity on the government’s current position. He also raised concerns about perceived differences in messaging to domestic and international audiences, suggesting the need for a more consistent and transparent communication approach. On the education front, the MP pointed to earlier statements by the President highlighting the importance of curriculum in promoting societal values. He, however, referenced a recent issue involving the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), where certain content in a teacher’s manual was later described as an anomaly. Rev. Fordjour urged authorities to ensure that educational materials remain aligned with agreed national values and standards. Additionally, he noted that some public figures who had previously been vocal on the bill have been less prominent in recent discussions, calling for renewed engagement on the issue. The Assin South MP emphasized the need for clear communication from the Presidency regarding its intentions if the bill is reintroduced and passed by Parliament. “Clarity on this matter will help guide public understanding and ensure transparency in the legislative process,” he said. He also encouraged continued dialogue among stakeholders, including religious bodies, civil society groups, and lawmakers, as the national conversation on the bill evolves. Rev. Fordjour reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to holding the government accountable while advocating for what he described as the broader interests and values of the Ghanaian people. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has accused President John Dramani Mahama and the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of exhibiting “political inconsistency, hypocrisy, and double standards” in their handling of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Addressing a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, argued that the NDC misled Ghanaians while in opposition by strongly endorsing the controversial legislation, only to shift its stance after assuming power. “We have invited you here to address a matter of significant national concern—one that reveals a clear pattern of political inconsistency and double standards at the highest level,” Rev. Fordjour stated. Rev. Fordjour traced the origins of the bill to 2021, noting that it received bipartisan backing, including support from several NDC lawmakers. According to him, the NDC at the time took a firm and highly visible position in favor of the bill, actively engaging the public, media, religious leaders, and traditional authorities to portray the then-government as lacking commitment to Ghanaian values. He further recalled that during the 2024 election campaign, former President Mahama openly pledged to assent to the bill, presenting himself as a strong defender of family values. However, the NPP contends that the NDC’s position has changed since returning to power in 2025. Rev. Fordjour cited engagements between President Mahama and religious leaders, including the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, where the President suggested that a fresh, government-sponsored bill would be more appropriate following the expiration of the previous Parliament. In those discussions, Mr. Mahama reportedly indicated that the legislation would be better pursued as a government bill after broader stakeholder consultations, rather than as a private member’s initiative. Tensions heightened after President Mahama remarked on March 31 that his administration was focused on addressing more pressing national needs, suggesting that the bill was not an immediate priority. Rev. Fordjour questioned this position, asking whether those same national challenges did not exist between 2021 and 2024, when the issue was vigorously promoted by the NDC. “To strongly advocate for a policy in opposition and then downplay its urgency in government raises serious questions about credibility,” he said. The NPP also raised concerns about developments within the education sector, particularly regarding teaching materials. Although the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) acknowledged that certain disputed content in a teacher’s manual was an error, Rev. Fordjour argued that the situation contradicts earlier assurances from the President. He alleged that instead of safeguarding children, the curriculum is being used to subtly introduce controversial perspectives. The party further questioned the apparent silence of some NDC figures who had previously supported the bill in Parliament but are now serving in government. Rev. Fordjour suggested that their reduced public advocacy indicates that their earlier support may have been politically motivated rather than based on firm conviction. The NPP is calling on President Mahama to clearly state his position on the bill. “He must clearly indicate whether he intends to assent to the bill, without resorting to explanations about competing priorities or procedural considerations,” Rev. Fordjour insisted. The party also urged religious organizations and civil society groups to demand accountability, while calling on Parliament to fast-track the reintroduction and passage of the bill. The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill remains a highly contentious issue in Ghana, receiving strong backing from religious and cultural groups, while also drawing criticism over potential human rights concerns and possible international implications. As debate intensifies, the Mahama administration is expected to face sustained scrutiny over its approach to one of the country’s most sensitive legislative matters. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, Member of Parliament for Assin South Constituency, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to render an unqualified apology to religious leaders, traditional authorities, and the Ghanaian public over what he describes as a calculated “deception” regarding the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Addressing a press conference at the headquarters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Asylum Down on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the outspoken lawmaker accused President Mahama and the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of exhibiting “double standards and political hypocrisy” in their handling of LGBTQI+ issues. According to Rev. Fordjour, the NDC, while in opposition between 2021 and 2024, strongly backed the bill and leveraged it as a political tool to court support from the clergy, Muslim leaders, traditional rulers, and the wider Ghanaian electorate. He noted that several NDC MPs were co-sponsors of the private member’s bill, which sought to criminalize LGBTQI+ activities and their promotion. He argued that then-presidential candidate Mahama gave firm assurances during the 2024 election campaign that he would prioritize and assent to the bill if elected, positioning himself as a staunch defender of Ghanaian cultural and family values. However, Rev. Fordjour said the narrative changed significantly after the NDC assumed power in 2025. He pointed out that the President began adopting what he described as a “cautious and evasive posture,” suggesting the bill should be reintroduced as a government-sponsored legislation after broader stakeholder consultations. The Assin South MP further alleged that the Mahama administration has since relegated the bill to the background, citing the President’s recent remarks that the legislation is no longer a priority compared to other pressing national needs. “To aggressively campaign on a matter of such moral and cultural significance, only to downplay its urgency in government, is the height of political dishonesty,” he stated. Rev. Fordjour also accused the government of engaging in what he termed a “dangerous double game,” claiming that while the President reassures local stakeholders of his opposition to LGBTQI+ practices, he adopts a more neutral and procedural tone in international engagements. He further raised concerns about what he described as attempts to introduce LGBTQI+ concepts into the country’s educational curriculum. He referenced a controversial definition of gender reportedly found in a Senior High School teacher’s manual, which he claimed contradicted the President’s earlier assurances to uphold Ghanaian family values through education. Although authorities have since described the material as an error, Rev. Fordjour insisted that its approval and circulation point to deeper inconsistencies within the government’s approach. He therefore called on President Mahama to “realign his priorities with the moral expectations of Ghanaians” and fulfill his earlier promise to support the passage of the bill. The MP also urged the NDC to apologize to the Christian Council of Ghana, the Catholic Bishops Conference, the Office of the National Chief Imam, and traditional leaders for what he described as misleading them for political gain. In addition, he appealed to Parliament’s leadership to expedite the consideration and passage of the reintroduced Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, stressing that Ghanaians expect decisive action on the matter. Rev. Fordjour reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to upholding what he called the country’s core cultural and religious values, vowing that the party would continue to hold the government accountable. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Assistant Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, CDD-GHANA, Jacob Ahuno has stated that Ghana must urgently reset its local governance architecture through far-reaching reforms that go beyond the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to address deeper structural, fiscal and institutional challenges. Speaking at a National Stakeholder Workshop on Local Government Reforms in Accra, Mr. Ahuno underscored the need for a holistic approach to decentralisation, noting that while the call for the election of MMDCEs has gained significant public traction, it represents only one aspect of the broader reforms required to enhance effectiveness at the local level. According to him, “the increasing demand for the election of MMDCEs reflects citizens’ desire for accountability and participation, but elections alone cannot fix the systemic inefficiencies within our local governance system." Mr. Ahuno explained that Ghana’s decentralisation journey has seen several reform efforts over the years, yet many structural weaknesses persist. He argued that meaningful reform must incorporate inclusive governance mechanisms such as proportional representation at the district level to accommodate a wider range of stakeholders, including youth groups, community volunteers, and political actors. He also stressed the importance of gender inclusion, calling for deliberate affirmative action policies to increase women’s representation in District Assemblies. He proposed a target of between 20 and 50 percent female participation by 2030 to ensure balanced decision-making and equitable development. Additionally, he advocated for administrative restructuring, including the consolidation of smaller and less viable districts into larger, more sustainable units capable of delivering efficient public services. Highlighting CDD-Ghana’s contributions to improving governance, Mr. Ahuno pointed to several initiatives designed to promote transparency, accountability and citizen engagement. These include the Ghana District Monitor, which tracks urban governance performance; the District Accountability Index, which evaluates accountability practices; and the Marginal District Development Scorecard, which assesses how deprived districts utilise resources for development. He also cited the Kamawa programme, which enhances citizen participation and amplifies local voices, as well as the Evidence for Development initiative that bridges the gap between research and policymaking through data-driven governance. “These tools are critical in ensuring that governance at the local level is not only participatory but also evidence-based,” he noted. A significant portion of Mr. Ahuno’s presentation focused on fiscal decentralisation, which he described as one of the weakest links in Ghana’s local governance system. He observed that although the Constitution mandates that five percent of national revenue be allocated to District Assemblies, actual disbursements often range between three and four percent, limiting the capacity of local authorities to deliver on their mandates. Comparatively, he noted that Ghana lags behind several African countries, with nations such as Nigeria allocating about 10 percent, Rwanda 15 percent, and Mali between 12 and 13 percent of national revenue to local governments. “In terms of best practice, Ghana should be targeting at least 15 percent if we are serious about empowering local authorities,” he stated. Mr. Ahuno further recommended that at least 80 percent of allocated funds be transferred directly to District Assemblies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks. He also raised concerns about the sharing of the District Assemblies Common Fund with Members of Parliament, arguing that such allocations are not constitutionally grounded and undermine the financial autonomy of local government. Mr. Ahuno identified low internally generated funds (IGF) as another critical challenge facing local governments. He attributed this to factors such as weak economic activity at the district level, poor property rate collection systems, and inefficiencies in revenue mobilisation. He called for reforms to strengthen local economic development and improve revenue collection mechanisms to ensure that Assemblies are less dependent on central government transfers. Touching on the role of traditional authorities, Mr. Ahuno acknowledged their continued influence in local development but pointed to recurring tensions between chiefs and local government officials over authority and control. He noted that although the Constitution requires consultation with chiefs in the appointment of 30 percent of government nominees to District Assemblies, traditional leaders often feel sidelined in decision-making processes. To address this, he proposed the establishment of a Council for Local Development and Governance as a statutory advisory body that would provide chiefs with a defined and dignified role while avoiding institutional conflicts with District Assemblies. Mr. Ahuno concluded by stressing that Ghana’s local governance system requires a comprehensive reset that integrates political, administrative, and fiscal reforms. “Resetting the system is not just about electing leaders; it is about building institutions that are inclusive, accountable, adequately resourced, and responsive to the needs of citizens,” he said. He urged policymakers, civil society, and other stakeholders to work collaboratively to implement reforms that will strengthen decentralisation and drive sustainable development at the grassroots level. Story by:   Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

The President of Terraformation Inc., Jad Daley, has provided deeper insight into the vision driving the company’s landmark collaboration with Ghana’s Forestry Commission to restore degraded mangrove ecosystems in the Keta Lagoon. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Daley underscored that the partnership is deliberately structured to prioritise people, sustainability, and shared value. “This partnership is rooted in equity, community ownership, and long-term impact,” he emphasised. Mr. Daley explained that Terraformation’s model places local communities at the centre of restoration efforts, ensuring they are actively involved in decision-making, implementation, and long-term stewardship of the mangrove ecosystems. According to him, this inclusive approach not only strengthens accountability but also guarantees sustainability, as community members develop a direct stake in protecting and managing restored landscapes. Beyond ecological restoration, Mr. Daley highlighted the project’s strong economic focus, noting that it is already creating jobs across the value chain from seed collection and nursery development to planting and monitoring. He added that the initiative is also promoting alternative livelihoods such as aquaculture and other nature-based enterprises to improve incomes and reduce overdependence on fragile coastal resources. “It is not just about how much we do, but how we do it together,” he noted, stressing the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility. Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown, described the partnership as a critical step toward addressing Ghana’s forest degradation challenges while strengthening sustainable resource management. He noted that the Commission’s technical expertise, combined with Terraformation’s global experience, will significantly enhance restoration outcomes and ensure long-term impact. Chairman of the Forestry Commission Board, Isaac Essien, also welcomed the collaboration, describing it as timely and strategic. “One of the key challenges we face is the degradation of our forests. With an institution like Terraformation bringing its expertise on board, we are confident that together we can restore and sustainably manage our forest resources,” he stated. Mr. Daley further highlighted that the Keta Lagoon initiative ranks among the largest mangrove restoration projects globally, with far-reaching environmental and socio-economic benefits. He emphasised that restoring mangroves will help curb coastal erosion, reduce flooding, and enhance climate resilience for vulnerable communities, positioning the project as a key nature-based solution in the fight against climate change. Pathway to scale Mr. Daley expressed optimism that the partnership will serve as a model for expanding restoration efforts across other degraded landscapes in Ghana, reinforcing the country’s leadership in innovative climate solutions. The collaboration ultimately reflects a shared commitment between Terraformation and the Forestry Commission to deliver measurable environmental impact while improving livelihoods ensuring that restoration efforts are both sustainable and inclusive. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghanaian media personality and Singathon sensation, Afua Asantewaa Owusu Aduonum, has finally broken her silence on the long-standing rumours surrounding her marriage, confirming that she is currently separated from her husband, Kofi Owusu Aduonum. Speaking during a TikTok Live session on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, Afua addressed months of speculation with a calm but candid revelation. “I am not divorced. We are separated for a good cause, and I am gradually healing. It is not a big deal.” The announcement comes months after a viral social media video she shared in July 2025 stirred controversy, where she introduced a gym-toned young man as her “ideal man” a move that left many questioning the state of her relationship. While she refrained from delving into the specifics, Afua hinted that the separation followed her relocation to Canada, describing the phase as part of a broader journey of emotional healing and self-discovery. Known for capturing national attention during her Singathon attempt, Afua’s personal life has remained under intense public scrutiny making this revelation a significant moment for fans who have closely followed her journey. Despite the circumstances, she maintains that the situation is not one of conflict, but growth signaling a new chapter focused on peace, clarity, and personal well-being. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s inflation rate has dropped to 3.2% in March 2026, the lowest level recorded in the past 15 months, extending a steady downward trend that began in January 2025. This represents a slight decline from the 3.3% recorded in February and a significant reduction compared to the 22.4% reported in March last year, highlighting a continued easing of price pressures across the economy. Addressing a press briefing, Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, explained that prices remained largely stable over the period under review, with only a minimal increase on a month-on-month basis. “Overall prices increased marginally by 0.1% between February and March,” he noted. The moderation in inflation was largely driven by a sharp slowdown in goods inflation, which fell to 1.7% from 3.2% in February. Since goods make up a substantial portion of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), this decline is expected to ease the burden on households. Food inflation also recorded a slight decrease to 2.3%, with prices dropping by 0.3% compared to the previous month. Similarly, non-food inflation edged down marginally to 3.9% from 4.0%, even though prices in that category rose by 0.3%. However, the services sector presented a contrasting trend, with inflation surging to 7.2% from 3.7%, driven by a 0.4% increase in service costs. Dr. Iddrisu further disclosed that inflation for locally produced goods rose to 4.9% from 4.5%, while imported goods recorded deflation of -0.6%, reversing the 0.6% inflation seen in February. The report also highlighted notable regional differences in price movements. The North East Region posted the highest inflation rate at 8.6%, whereas the Savannah Region recorded deflation of -4.6%. He attributed these disparities to challenges such as supply chain disruptions, transportation costs, and limited market accessibility in certain areas. Economists believe that while the overall outlook is encouraging, focused policy measures will be necessary to address rising costs in the services sector and to tackle uneven inflation trends across regions. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

A major cultural collaboration between Ghana and Spain is set to take centre stage in Accra on April 24, as the Spanish Embassy rolls out Hola Accra—a groundbreaking musical exchange initiative that has already secured the full backing of the Ga State. The Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, H. E. Ángel Lossada Torres-Quevedo, announced the initiative during a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, describing it as a bold step in strengthening cultural diplomacy between the two nations. According to the Ambassador, Hola Accra—“Hola” meaning “Hello” in Spanish—will serve as a vibrant platform for musical fusion, collaboration, and artistic exchange between Ghanaian and Spanish musicians. “This is a very important cultural experience that will benefit both Ghana and Spain. It is about bringing people together through music and demonstrating how cultures can collaborate to create something meaningful,” he stated. The initiative, being organised in partnership with Música, will feature a series of concerts and capacity-building sessions involving three Ghanaian musical groups and a Spanish ensemble made up of four visiting musicians. Ambassador Torres-Quevedo explained that beyond individual performances, the highlight of the programme will be joint sessions where Ghanaian and Spanish artistes will merge their styles to create original fusion music. “They will perform separately, but most importantly, they will come together to make music. It is about exchange, cooperation, and showing how people from different backgrounds can create together,” he added. The programme will also include musical dialogues, discussions, and interactive engagements aimed at deepening cultural understanding and promoting artistic learning between the two countries. Responding to the presentation, the Ga Mantse welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the strong bilateral relations between Ghana and Spain, rooted in trade, business, and cultural cooperation. “It is a pleasure to strengthen the relationship we have built with Spain. Ghana and Spain continue to enjoy a solid partnership—we trade, we connect, and we do business together,” King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II noted. While endorsing the programme, the Ga Mantse stressed the need for cultural initiatives to reflect local context and identity to ensure meaningful impact and broad-based support. “Cultural exchange is important, but content is key. It must be tailored to suit the environment in which it is being implemented, so that we can ensure strong Ghanaian ownership behind it,” he emphasised. Satisfied with the structure and vision of Hola Accra, the Ga Mantse pledged the full support of the Ga State, declaring the initiative a priority on his agenda. “I support this venture and will commit all necessary resources to ensure its success. The Palace has its full weight behind this programme,” he assured. The Ambassador, in turn, expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting that Hola Accra, already being replicated in other parts of Africa, is being introduced in Ghana for the first time—marking a significant milestone in cultural relations between the two countries. With strong diplomatic backing and royal endorsement, Hola Accra is poised to become a landmark cultural event, showcasing the power of music to bridge cultures and unite people across borders. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has expressed profound gratitude to the Lebanese community in Ghana following a significant donation aimed at strengthening the operational capacity of the Ghana Police Service. The items were officially presented by H.E. Mohammed Baal Baki on behalf of the Lebanese community. Receiving the donation, IGP Yohuno described the gesture as timely and impactful, noting that it reflects the strong partnership between the Ghana Police Service and the Lebanese community. “This is welcome news for us. We are deeply grateful to the Lebanese community for this support. It shows their recognition of the efforts of the police in reducing crime and maintaining law and order in the country,” he stated. He particularly acknowledged the role of a prominent Lebanese businessman, Mohammed, whom he described as a long-time friend of the Police Service, for his continuous support and belief in the work of the police. The donation includes three Nissan Navara pick-up vehicles to support general policing duties, four saloon cars designated for the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), 20 motorbikes to enhance mobility, as well as 20 pieces of 43-inch television sets and 30 air conditioners to improve working conditions within police facilities. IGP Yohuno assured the donors that the items would be put to effective use to enhance policing operations across the country. “These resources will go a long way to support our work and improve our response to crime. We assure you that they will be used judiciously to help us discharge our duties effectively,” he added. The Ghana Police Service continues to rely on strategic partnerships and community support as it intensifies efforts to combat crime and ensure public safety. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for strict enforcement of building regulations following the recent structural collapse at Accra New Town. The traditional ruler made the remarks when he visited the site of the incident a few days ago, where he assessed the situation and interacted with affected victims and authorities. According to him, regulators and relevant state agencies must ensure that all construction projects adhere to approved building codes to prevent future tragedies. He stressed that any structure found to be unsafe after proper engineering assessment must be demolished without delay. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II further urged authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the collapse, noting that it is crucial to determine whether the defect is limited to a section of the building or affects the entire structure. He maintained that if the entire building is deemed unsafe, it must be pulled down and reconstructed to guarantee public safety. “We cannot live like this,” he stated, expressing concern over recurring incidents of structural failures and lapses in regulatory enforcement. On the condition of victims, the Ga Mantse offered prayers for those currently receiving treatment, while expressing gratitude that about 90 individuals have reportedly been discharged from hospital. He also called for continued prayers and support for those still on admission, wishing them a speedy recovery, and extended his condolences to families who lost their loved ones in the unfortunate incident. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Member of Parliament for Odododiodio, Alfred Nii Ashie Kotey, has underscored the need for Africans to embrace forgiveness, self-reflection, and unity as key pillars in ongoing discussions on reparatory justice and the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Speaking on the broader implications of the global push for reparations, the MP acknowledged that while the international community has begun to admit its role in the historical injustices of slavery, Africans must also confront their own past and take responsibility where necessary. According to him, genuine progress cannot be achieved solely through external recognition and compensation, but must also be driven by an internal process of healing—one that involves accepting past wrongs, forgiving one another, and working collectively towards rebuilding a strong and unified continent. Mr. Kotey stressed that the call for reparations is not merely about financial gain, but also about restoring dignity and correcting the deep psychological damage inflicted on Africans over centuries. He noted that slavery and colonialism entrenched a sense of inferiority among Black people, distorting identity and self-worth. However, he pointed out that evidence of African excellence across the world challenges that narrative, as Africans continue to compete and excel in education, innovation, and professional fields globally. He therefore urged a conscious effort to break free from what he described as “mental slavery,” encouraging Africans to redefine their identity, rebuild confidence, and reposition themselves as equals on the global stage. Drawing inspiration from the ideals of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the MP called for a renewed commitment to pan-African unity and identity, emphasizing that reclaiming and rebranding the African narrative is essential to securing respect, equality, and meaningful inclusion in global affairs. He concluded that unity, introspection, and a shared vision for the future will be critical in ensuring that the gains made in the global reparations discourse translate into tangible benefits for Africans and people of African descent worldwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith