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The Director-General of the National Information Technology Authority (NITA), Dr. Mark-Oliver Kevor, has issued a stern warning to online business operators, stating that any e-commerce platform that refuses to be accredited under the upcoming regulatory framework will not be allowed to operate in Ghana. Speaking at the 2025 National ICT Week celebration in Accra, Dr. Kevor emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring trust and security in Ghana’s digital commerce space. Themed “Ghana as Africa’s Digital Trade Hub—Innovation, Policy, and Partnerships for the Future,” the event brought together key players in the tech ecosystem to deliberate on the country’s digital trade ambitions. “Many Ghanaians have lost hope in online businesses due to unlawful trading,” Dr. Kevor noted. "We want to create an enabling environment for online businesses to thrive and also build confidence in customers. Any online business that refuses to be accredited will not be allowed to trade.” The upcoming accreditation system, spearheaded by NITA, will serve as a digital trust mark, assuring consumers that certified businesses meet standards of security, transparency, and accountability. Dr. Kevor explained that the initiative is a critical part of Ghana’s broader digital transformation agenda, which includes flagship programs such as the ICT for Girls initiative, the One Million Coders project, and collaborations with tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Huawei. He stressed that the move to regulate e-commerce is not just about enforcement, but also about nurturing an ecosystem where innovation, safety, and consumer confidence drive digital growth. As part of the National ICT Week activities, stakeholders are also discussing key reforms needed to position Ghana as a leading digital trade hub in Africa. These include: Strengthening digital trust through the Digital Trust Framework Showcasing innovations in digital payments, logistics, and e-commerce Rolling out a national Data Exchange Hub and robust Data Governance Framework Attracting global investors and fostering public-private partnerships Dr. Kevor concluded by reiterating that the regulatory framework is intended to "consolidate Ghana’s role as a secure, innovative, and reliable digital trade hub for Africa." The new measures are expected to be rolled out in the coming months, with NITA leading the charge in vetting and certifying online businesses across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Retired Wing Commander, Patrick Nelson Sorgborjor has called for calm and restraint in the face of public speculation following the recent tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including Ghana's Ministers of Defense and Environment. In an interview monitored by Thinknewsonline.com , the respected retired pilot and former Ghana Air Force officer emphasized that investigations into such military air incidents are governed by strict technical procedures and classified protocols, not public commentary. “Let us be patient. We must wait for the findings of the black box. No one can determine the cause of the crash by mere speculation,” he stated, stressing that neither the pilot nor the aircraft crew would ever intentionally put themselves in harm’s way. According to Wing Commander Sorgborzojor, the public’s reaction—marked by conspiracy theories, misinformation, and technical assumptions—has been “unhelpful and uninformed.” He clarified that before any military flight, a thorough pre-flight check is conducted, not only by technicians but also by the pilots themselves. “No pilot takes off with an aircraft unless everything checks out,” he affirmed. “Even if there’s a minor fault, the mission is aborted. Especially for an all-weather certified pilot, there are standards and safety protocols that are rigorously followed before, during, and after a flight.” Addressing rumors that passengers made distress calls during the crash, the veteran aviator dismissed the claims as baseless, adding that communication in such aircraft is controlled and regulated. “Mobile phones do not work midair like that. And a civilian on board wouldn’t have the technical understanding to assess or report what’s going wrong in the cockpit,” he explained. "The only person capable of making decisions is the pilot, who at that moment, would be doing everything to save lives.” Touching on concerns regarding the Z-9 helicopter's reliability — the aircraft involved in the incident — Commander Sorgborjor noted that every aircraft model is configured differently and that flight performance often depends on maintenance and pilot handling, not just manufacturing origin. “Every aircraft type has limitations clearly stated in black and white,” he said. “What happened in other countries like Pakistan or Nigeria with Z-9s may not be the same here. Each incident is peculiar to its own circumstances.” He further stressed that Ghana operates several Z-9s and that the aircraft in question would have undergone routine checks before its assignment. The suggestion that the crash stemmed from negligence or a substandard aircraft is speculative at best, he said. Commander Sorgborjor also clarified why the public may never receive full details of the crash investigation. “Military aircraft crash reports are classified unless the authorities decide otherwise,” he said. “Since the Air Force’s inception in 1959, several incidents have occurred. How many times have you seen those reports in the media? That’s the nature of military operations.” He noted that while civilians may demand accountability and answers, investigations involving military assets are not subject to the same transparency as civil aviation. Reflecting on his 82 years of life and decades of experience in military aviation, Wing Commander Sorgborjor shared that Ghana has experienced many aviation tragedies before — some involving fellow airmen under his watch — but public reactions were never as politically charged or speculative as they are today. “I understand the grief and curiosity,” he said. "But I urge Ghanaians to allow the professionals to complete their investigations. No one wants to hide the truth, but some things are not for public consumption. Let’s respect that.” The retired commander concluded by honoring the fallen crew and officials, describing the incident as a heartbreaking loss for the nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to creating a more conducive environment for increased Japanese investment, as part of efforts to deepen bilateral relations between the two nations. He gave the assurance during a high-level bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru on Wednesday, August 20, on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9) in Japan. The two leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including strengthening diplomatic ties, economic cooperation, and support for international development initiatives. They emphasized the need to expand trade and investment opportunities and build on the longstanding Ghana–Japan partnership. Prime Minister Ishiba expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of Ghana following the tragic August 6 accident that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including Ghana’s Ministers of Defense and Environment. He praised Ghana’s resilience and pledged Japan’s continued solidarity during this period of national mourning. Highlighting Japan’s long-standing engagement with Ghana, Prime Minister Ishiba noted that President Mahama’s past experience at the Japanese Embassy in Accra offered a strong foundation for enhanced collaboration between the two countries. In response, President Mahama thanked Japan for its show of empathy and reiterated Ghana’s readiness to work with Japan across key development sectors, including agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He also lauded Japan’s support for African development through the TICAD platform and encouraged Japanese companies to take advantage of emerging opportunities in Ghana’s investment landscape. Prime Minister Ishiba, however, called for Ghana’s assistance in addressing challenges faced by Japanese businesses operating in the country. President Mahama assured him of Ghana’s commitment to tackling bottlenecks and providing an investor-friendly environment to attract more Japanese enterprises. The two leaders also touched on broader regional and global issues, reaffirming their joint commitment to promoting peace, stability, and inclusive growth. Looking ahead, they pledged to deepen bilateral ties in the lead-up to major anniversaries in 2027 — including the 100th anniversary of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi’s voyage to Ghana, the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ghana and Japan, and the 50th anniversary of Japan’s JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers program in Ghana. President Mahama was accompanied at the meeting by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, Minister for Roads and Highways Kwame Governs Agbodza, and Senior Presidential Adviser Joyce Bawa Mogtari. The two leaders are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on Thursday as part of the TICAD-9 framework, before President Mahama delivers his official address at the conference’s plenary session. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s Minister of Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has strongly condemned any form of violence or harassment against health professionals, calling for calm and clarity following the recent altercation involving a man identified as Ralph and a nurse at the Greater Accra Regional (Ridge) Hospital. Addressing the media on Thursday, Mr. Akandoh outlined the chronology of events leading up to and following the much-publicised incident, and reaffirmed government’s commitment to protecting healthcare workers across the country. “Let me make it clear: irrespective of the level of provocation at any health facility in this country, nobody — absolutely nobody — has the right to attack any health professional,” the Minister stressed. According to him, following initial reports of the incident, he dispatched a delegation to the Ridge Hospital to ascertain the facts. After being debriefed, he felt compelled to personally visit the facility, accompanied by the Deputy Director-General and other top officials from the Ministry of Health. During the visit, Mr. Akandoh toured the hospital, visited the affected nurse, and held a closed-door meeting with management to discuss security concerns and staff welfare. He stated that the conversation was focused on solutions and internal improvements, not public confrontations or blame games. "We discussed key issues including internal security and staffing,” he said. "After the meeting, I addressed the press to assure the public and the health community that we are taking the necessary steps to ensure such incidents do not repeat.” The Minister disclosed that he has constituted a committee to investigate the incident thoroughly and present actionable recommendations. Mr. Akandoh also addressed the controversial moment when he was seen shaking hands with Ralph, the man reportedly at the centre of the altercation. He clarified that the handshake was a matter of courtesy and public duty, and not a dismissal of the seriousness of the incident. “Even if someone is being prosecuted or serving a sentence, if they stretch their hand to greet me, as a public officer, I am obliged to respond. That doesn’t mean I condone wrongdoing, nor does it halt any measures we are putting in place to seek justice,” he explained. In a lighter moment during the press conference, the Minister addressed public jests about his background as a farmer. “Yes, I’m a poor farmer. In fact, I’m one of the biggest rice farmers in the country, and I’m proud of that. But these distractions will not derail the work we have to do,” he added. Mr. Akandoh urged the public and political actors to refrain from politicising the incident or attempting to incite health workers against the government. “Any attempt by individuals or groups to pretend they care more about health workers than the government is not helpful. We must avoid unnecessary tensions. It doesn’t help the sector,” he cautioned. The Minister reassured health professionals of the government’s unwavering support, and affirmed that investigations will be conducted with fairness, professionalism, and urgency. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Charles Nii Armah Mensah , popularly known as Shatta Wale , has failed to identify the individual from whom he claims to have purchased a luxury 2019 Lamborghini Urus, which United States authorities have linked to a $4 million fraud case, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has disclosed. The vehicle, which was seized by EOCO in May 2025, has been flagged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) as a substitute asset in a criminal case involving one Nana Kwabena Amuah — a Ghanaian national currently serving a prison sentence in the US for fraud and money laundering. According to the Head of Public Affairs for the Acting Executive Director of EOCO, Shatta Wale informed investigators that he bought the Lamborghini for $150,000 from an unidentified individual known only as “ZAK”, whom he allegedly met on the street. The artiste was unable to provide any valid documentation for the purchase, nor could he verify the seller’s full name, identity, or contact information. “He claims the person contacted him via WhatsApp but he has since discarded the number and has no further means of identifying the person,” the EOCO spokesperson stated. Shatta Wale also failed to present any purchase receipt, ownership transfer documents, or proof of payment. The only document in his possession is a customs declaration that bears the name of Nana Kwabena Amuah — the convicted fraudster whose assets are currently under US forfeiture orders. The probe forms part of a broader investigation by US authorities into possible co-conspirators in Ghana connected to a transnational fraud ring. Acting on a request from the FBI and DOJ, EOCO began local efforts to locate and recover the Lamborghini Urus in question. The vehicle was eventually traced to Shatta Wale’s possession. On August 15, 2025, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Central Division of Lexington, issued an official Order Forfeiting Substitute Asset, authorising the US Government to take possession of the Lamborghini in Ghana as restitution for the crime. In response to Shatta Wale’s public comments claiming ownership of the vehicle, EOCO issued a formal invitation to him on August 5, 2025, asking that he report for questioning. The initial appointment scheduled for August 13 was rescheduled at the request of his legal counsel to August 20 at 11 a.m.  However, Shatta Wale reported to EOCO's office around 3 p.m. and refused to cooperate until his counsel arrived. Despite the delay, EOCO investigators proceeded with a full interrogation session that concluded around 9 p.m., with some staff staying past working hours to ensure the interview was completed. Following the interrogation, Shatta Wale was granted bail in the sum of GHC10 million, with two sureties to be justified. EOCO stated that it would conduct a standard surety inspection upon presentation of the guarantors before releasing him from custody. “This is standard EOCO protocol. Once the sureties are verified, Mr. Mensah will be released as investigations continue,” the Head of Public Affairs clarified. Shatta Wale remains a person of interest in the ongoing investigations into the proceeds of crime and the suspected concealment of criminal property. EOCO emphasised that the matter is still under investigation, and further actions will be taken as more facts come to light. The agency has also reiterated its commitment to supporting international partners in dismantling cross-border financial crime networks. EOCO is working closely with the FBI and DOJ to trace and recover assets acquired through fraudulent schemes affecting US citizens and institutions. The collaboration is part of a wider transnational law enforcement initiative aimed at addressing money laundering and illicit financial flows between the US and Ghana. The agency has assured the public of its neutrality and professionalism in handling the matter, stressing that due process will be followed at all stages of the investigation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured journalists of their safety and protection ahead of the upcoming Akwatia by-election. The IGP also urged police officers nationwide to treat members of the media with respect and restraint. This reassurance comes on the heels of a recent incident in which a journalist was assaulted by a police officer during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun in July—a development that sparked concern among media professionals and civil society groups. Addressing the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) during a stakeholder meeting in Accra on Wednesday, August 20, the IGP acknowledged the indispensable role journalists play in promoting transparency and accountability during elections. "All we are telling police personnel countrywide is that the brothers and sisters who hold the camera and the phones to take whatever they want during the election time—I think there is a level to which they can go, but you have to be moderate in handling them,” the IGP said. He emphasized that journalists serve as the eyes and ears of the nation during election periods, providing critical updates to the public and shaping national discourse. “Without them, the rest of the people who are at home watching—they cannot see what is going on. Some of us, we have reached this stage, and without the media, nobody would have heard of our name,” he added. Reiterating the Police Service’s commitment to media freedom and safety, the IGP gave his personal assurance to members of the GJA and the broader press corps. “We will make sure that we will protect you,” he said firmly. The meeting formed part of ongoing engagements between the Police Administration and key stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and secure electoral process in Akwatia. It also underscored the Ghana Police Service’s intention to rebuild trust and strengthen collaboration with the media following past tensions. The Akwatia by-election is expected to draw national attention, and the role of journalists in covering events fairly and safely remains a key concern for both security agencies and the media fraternity.

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni, has announced a bold digital transformation agenda aimed at enhancing service delivery and stakeholder engagement. Speaking at the Authority’s 2024 Annual Stakeholder Meeting held on Wednesday, August 20, Prof. Frimpong-Manso emphasized that the FDA is leveraging cutting-edge digital platforms to achieve more timely and efficient responses to clients and stakeholders. “We are looking at cutting-edge digital platforms with the ultimate goal of responding to our clients and stakeholders in a timely manner,” he stated, stressing the importance of technology in driving regulatory excellence. This year’s meeting was held under the theme: “Improving Productivity and Efficiency Through Digitalisation and Staff Commitment.” Prof. Frimpong-Manso revealed that the newly deployed Governor FDA Integrated Regulatory Management System (GFM) now allows applicants to file and track regulatory submissions online, significantly reducing delays. He also highlighted ongoing collaborations with global partners—including the EU, Gates Foundation, WHO, and GIZ—to establish advanced laboratories, build a secure data center, and support regional capacity-building initiatives. Citing improved laboratory accreditations and expanded testing capabilities, he assured stakeholders of the FDA’s commitment to ensuring public health and regulatory integrity in Ghana and across the sub-region. “We are working hard to reset regulation in Ghana,” he said, “and to build the better regulatory regime we all want.” On her part Director for Public Enterprise Secretariat, Lovia Bamfo noted that the Food and Drugs Authority’s (FDA) critical role in safeguarding public health is not only a regulatory mandate but a cornerstone of Ghana’s national development. Ms. Bamfo commended the Authority for its unwavering dedication to protecting the health and well-being of Ghanaians, describing the institution as an “uncompromising guardian of public health.” “The prosperity we seek as a nation is directly linked to the health of our citizenry." "The FDA’s work touches every aspect of our lives—from the food on our tables to the medicines we take and even the cosmetics we use daily,” she noted. Ms. Bamfo praised the FDA’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, adding that its openness to feedback from regulatory partners, civil society, and the international community reflects a progressive approach to public service. “By shifting from a one-way command-and-control model to a two-way dialogue with stakeholders, the FDA is building trust—a far more effective tool than enforcement alone,” she said. She also highlighted the Authority’s recent achievement of World Health Organization Maturity Level 3 (WHO ML3) status as a significant milestone. "This achievement is not just a badge of honor for the FDA. It is a strategic national asset that signals to the world that Ghana’s regulatory system is robust, mature, and dependable,” she emphasized. Presenting some updates, Head of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation at the FDA, Afua Amoako-Mensah, said the Authority is intensifying efforts to ensure compliance with food hygiene standards under its Street Food Vending Permit Scheme. “In the year under review, we trained 3,510 food vendors and issued 1,094 permits" "However, many vendors failed to complete the process by securing health certificates despite follow-up reminders,” She stressed that the FDA is also collaborating with border security agencies to clamp down on non-compliant products entering the country The meeting, which brought together stakeholders from the Ministries of Finance and Health, exporters, importers, and community leaders, focused on strategies to strengthen productivity and safeguard public health. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, together with members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), has held a high-level engagement with key stakeholders to discuss security arrangements for the upcoming Akwatia By-Election. The meeting, which took place on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, focused on ensuring peace, law, and order before, during, and after the polls. Representatives of political parties were present and commended the Ghana Police Service for initiating the dialogue. They also underscored the importance of fairness and transparency in security deployment to build trust in the electoral process. The engagement provided an opportunity for the Police to outline their security strategy and receive feedback from the parties involved. This, the Police noted, forms part of a broader stakeholder collaboration aimed at fostering peaceful elections. Earlier, on August 12, the IGP and his team held talks with the Electoral Commission (EC) to discuss a coordinated roadmap for the by-election. The EC shared its operational plans and discussed how to align efforts with the Police to ensure a smooth electoral process. As part of ongoing stakeholder engagements, the Police also met with the Institute of Democratic Governance (IDEG) on August 13 at the National Police Headquarters. IDEG highlighted concerns related to electoral transparency, security, and the importance of collaborative stakeholder involvement in sustaining public confidence. The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to continuous engagement with all relevant stakeholders as it finalizes operational strategies for the Akwatia By-Election, with the overarching goal of safeguarding peace and ensuring a credible electoral process. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service has made a major breakthrough in its investigation into the recent Mpohor gold shop robbery, following the recovery of weapons, ammunition, and other critical exhibits believed to be linked to the crime. According to a police statement, the discovery was made during intensified anti-robbery patrols by officers from the Kuntanase District in the Ashanti Region. The patrol team intercepted a suspicious white Toyota Sienta vehicle parked along the Aputuoagya–Bekwai road. Two unidentified men standing near the vehicle reportedly fled into a nearby bush upon sighting the police. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the recovery of an AK-47 assault rifle, a locally manufactured firearm, two loaded AK-47 magazines (each containing 30 rounds), additional packets of ammunition, cowrie shells, a Huawei smartphone, identity cards, and several clothing items. Significantly, police say a comparison of the recovered clothing with CCTV footage from the Mpohor robbery scene revealed a clear resemblance. The hooded tops and wellington boots found in the car closely match those worn by the suspects during the armed attack. “This recovery is a major stride in the ongoing investigations,” the police said, adding that forensic examinations and intelligence analysis are currently underway. The police have assured the public that security operations have been ramped up nationwide to track down the fleeing suspects and ensure their swift arrest and prosecution. The robbery, which shocked residents of Mpohor in the Western Region, saw armed men storm a local gold shop, making away with valuables under the threat of gunfire. The latest development is expected to boost public confidence as the manhunt for the perpetrators continues. The Ghana Police Service has called on the public to provide any information that could aid in the arrest of the suspects. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

News coming in indicates that President John Dramani Mahama has named former Auditor-General and celebrated anti-corruption advocate, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, as the new Board Chairman of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). US-based Ghanaian legal scholar, Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare, also known as Kwaku Azar took to his social media platform to break the news. Mr. Domelevo’s return to public service follows his controversial exit in 2020 under the Akufo-Addo administration, which forced him to proceed on an extended leave. His new role places him at the helm of EOCO, currently headed by investigative journalist Raymond Archer, to help steer the agency's mandate of combating economic and organised crime. The Facebook post has sparked considerable public interest. Many believe the appointment if true marks a significant moment in Ghana’s anti-corruption drive. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Mandlakayise Hlophe, Deputy President of the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe Party, has declared that the unification and progress of the African continent lies solely in the hands of Africans. Speaking on behalf of Former South African President, Jacob Zuma during a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Dr. Hlophe emphasized that external forces, particularly from the West, have historically worked against a united Africa and have no genuine interest in its integration. “Africa was divided by the whites. The whites have no interest in having Africa united. It will take the Africans — and nobody else — to unite Africa and ensure we are respected,” Dr. Hlophe stated. He lamented the continued economic dependency of African countries on the West, especially through systems such as the global reliance on the US dollar, and called for the continent to harness its own resources for the benefit of its people. “Our minerals, gold, coffee, and other resources must first and foremost serve Africans,” he stressed. Dr. Hlophe further underscored the importance of preserving African culture, respecting traditional leadership, and revitalizing inter-African trade, integration, and cooperation. On his part, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse commended Ex. Pres. Jacob Zuma for his enduring legacy in the fight for African dignity and unity. The Ga Mantse described President Zuma’s visit as a symbol of renewed pan-African solidarity and a reminder of the continent’s shared destiny. “It is a true honor to receive you in Accra,” he said. “This meeting is not just between leaders, but it is Africa reminding itself of its strength and shared destiny.” Reflecting on their earlier meeting, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II emphasized the importance of African nations coming together socio-economically to define their own path. "Africa is the mother of the world,” he stated, adding that the continent must reclaim ownership of its narrative. “We must tell our story one more time because the narrative has changed,” the Ga Mantse said. “We now have more voices speaking of our history and aspirations. It is about time we told our own story.” Praising Jacob Zuma’s legacy, he noted, “You are known as a leader who stood firm for your people and for the dignity of our continent. That legacy resonates far beyond South Africa.” He also spoke on the vital role of culture in Africa’s development. “For us in the United States”—referring to the Ga State—“we believe that culture must walk side by side with economic independence. Our culture is our destiny, our dignity, and our wealth.” The Ga Mantse reminded President Zuma that he was not just a guest but part of the Ga family. "Among the Ga people, you are family. To me, you are a big brother. And forever, you will be so.” The visit ended on a light-hearted note as King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II invited Zuma to try a local staple, saying with a smile, “The last time, I don’t know, you tried something alone. But maybe today you must try something because that is our staple food… In Ghana, we say konnika kena—you should remember that.” The Ga Mantse expressed hope that Zuma’s visit would further deepen the bonds of friendship between Ghana and South Africa and serve as a reminder that true leadership is rooted in selflessness, courage, and vision. Former President Zuma is expected to deliver a public lecture on Africa’s economic future and the significance of the BRICS alliance. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The historic streets of Ga Mashie roared with cultural pride and communal spirit on Saturday, August 16, 2025, as the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, led the celebration of the 2025 Homowo Festival. The event, rich in tradition and symbolism, featured the ceremonial sprinkling of Kpokpoi—a sacred cornmeal dish—alongside vibrant displays of drumming, dancing, and musketry. Homowo, which translates to “hooting at hunger,” commemorates the Ga people’s victory over a devastating famine centuries ago. Over time, it has evolved into a profound expression of cultural resilience, unity, and thanksgiving. The festival commenced with the Gbese Mantse, Nii Ayi-Bonte II, performing the initial sprinkling rites from Usher Fort through the heart of Ga Mashie. He led a retinue of elders, warriors, and cultural enthusiasts, marking the start of the spiritual procession. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II later undertook ritual visitations to key Ga stool houses, performing additional Kpokpoi sprinklings. These acts, deeply symbolic, reinforced the ancestral bonds that unite the various clans of the Ga State and reaffirmed his leadership as the spiritual and cultural head of the Ga people. The streets teemed with residents and visitors clad in colourful traditional attire, participating in the jubilation. Energetic drumming, traditional songs, and musketry filled the atmosphere, creating a spectacle that drew not only indigenes but also tourists and members of the African diaspora eager to reconnect with their roots. While the Homowo Festival remains rooted in tradition, it continues to reflect the evolving aspirations of the Ga people. Beyond the cultural performances and rituals, the festival offered moments of family reunions, communal feasting, and peace-building practices—reinforcing the spirit of togetherness that Homowo embodies. This year’s celebration not only honoured the past but also reaffirmed a collective commitment to a united and progressive Ga Mashie. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith