Ghanaian Business Mogul, Ibrahim Mahama, has revealed that his former aircraft has been donated to the nation to serve as an emergency air ambulance. He made these remarks following an acquisition of a new private jet valued at $70 million. Speaking at the Kotoka International Airport, Mr. Mahama said the gesture forms part of his commitment to supporting national development and improving emergency healthcare delivery across the country. “My old plane is now an Emergency Air Ambulance for every Ghanaian, and not for me alone" he declared. According to him, the converted aircraft will be equipped to handle medical emergencies, including rapid response evacuations and the transport of critically ill patients within and outside Ghana when necessary. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A Ghanaian Ga woman based in the Netherlands, Naa Dedei Solomon, has paid a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, at his residence in Accra. The visit, marked by emotion and cultural pride, highlighted the growing connection between the GaDangme diaspora and the Ga State. Naa Dedei Solomon expressed profound joy following her meeting with the King, describing his ascension as a source of renewed confidence for Ga people living abroad. “I walk with my shoulders high in Holland because we now have a legitimate Ga Mantse,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. Overcome with gratitude and pride during her remarks, she broke down in tears, underscoring the deep cultural bond she feels with her heritage. She praised King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II for his leadership style and his strong connection with the youth, noting that his reign has inspired unity and purpose among GaDangme communities both at home and abroad. Speaking on behalf of the Ga Mantse, Nuumo Akwaa Mensa III, Chief Priest of the Ga State, thanked the delegation for the visit and commended Naa Dedei Solomon for her unwavering commitment to her roots. “The King is happy for you. The tears you shed before us today show how deeply rooted you are as a Ga,” he said. He encouraged her to continue mobilising and organising the GaDangme community in the Netherlands, urging members of the diaspora to remain connected to their ancestral home. Nuumo Akwaa Mensa III further enlightened the delegation on the historical ties between the Ga State and the Dutch, referencing the existence of Dutch Accra and British Accra within the Ga State. He explained that many of the households that form the Ga State are situated in what was historically known as Dutch Accra. He therefore called on GaDangme people in Holland to strengthen their engagement with the homeland and take pride in their heritage. The visit symbolised not only a reaffirmation of loyalty to the Ga throne but also a renewed commitment by the diaspora to support development and unity within the Ga State. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Catholic Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, Bonaventure Kwofie, has paid a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, following the recent accident involving the traditional ruler in the Oti Region. The Archbishop was accompanied by the Auxiliary Bishops of Accra, John Kobina Louis and Anthony Narh Asare. The visit, held at the King’s residence in Accra, was to express solidarity and offer spiritual support after news of the accident. The clergy used the occasion to pray for the Ga Mantse’s full recovery and continued strength as he resumes his traditional duties. Speaking on behalf of the Ga Mantse, Nii Ahene Nunoo III, Paramount Chief of the Abola Traditional Area, expressed gratitude to the Archbishop and his delegation for the show of concern and prayers. He thanked the Catholic leadership for their timely visit and assured them that the public would soon be informed about arrangements for a thanksgiving service in appreciation of the King’s recovery. The visit underscores the strong relationship between traditional authorities and the Christian community in promoting unity and well-being within society. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Council of State has paid a courtesy call on the King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II to express solidarity and gratitude to God following the recent accident involving the Ga Mantse. Speaking during the visit, the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, said the delegation considered it necessary to stand with the Ga Mantse and his family in this period. “We have come to pause the sadness after the accident involving His Royal Majesty, the chief and his wife. We are here to express our support and solidarity with our brother and to thank the Almighty God for saving his life,” he stated. Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II disclosed that upon hearing news of the incident, he reached out to the Ga Mantse, recalling a previous accident during which the King had been hospitalized and confined. He noted that he also spoke with the Queen, whom he described as a strong and supportive leader, and together they offered prayers and thanksgiving for divine protection. According to him, the matter was formally communicated to members of the Council of State during their meeting earlier in the day, after which the delegation proceeded to the palace to convey their support in person. The visit, he emphasized, was not only to sympathize but also to give thanks to God for preserving the lives of the Ga Mantse and all those involved. The courtesy call highlighted the unity between state institutions and traditional authorities, as well as the collective commitment to supporting the Ga Mantse during his recovery. On his part, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse expressed profound gratitude to members of the Council of State for their visit, describing it as a gesture that has further strengthened the bonds of friendship and unity between them. The Ga Mantse said “In all things, we give thanks to God,” He appreciated the Almighty for preserving his life following the recent accident. The Ga Mantse, who is still recovering, is said to be particularly grateful for divine intervention and the outpouring of support from well-wishers across the country. His Royal Majesty further hinted of a possible thanksgiving ceremony in the near future, when circumstances permit, to publicly express gratitude to God for his life and the lives of all those involved in the incident. He has extended an invitation to members of the Council of State and other stakeholders to join him when the ceremony is held, so that they may collectively offer thanks. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, Emmanuel A. Cherry, has reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting the redevelopment and modernization of Greater Accra Region during a courtesy call on the King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II. Addressing the Ga Traditional Council through the Chief Linguist, Mr. Cherry explained that the visit was to formally pay homage and express appreciation to the Ga Mantse for honoring the Chamber’s invitation to its recent Annual General Conference, Awards and Dinner Night. “We were here a couple of weeks ago in connection with our Annual General Conference and Awards Dinner. His Royal Majesty graciously responded to our invitation and attended with his entourage,” Mr. Cherry said. He noted that beyond the courtesy visit, the Chamber was also seeking to follow up on issues raised by the Ga Mantse during the event, particularly concerning the construction sector and the broader redevelopment of Accra. “As key stakeholders within the construction industry, we are here to deepen our relationship and understand exactly what His Majesty expects of us,” he stated. “If necessary, we will escalate discussions by engaging other traditional rulers and key stakeholders to develop a comprehensive proposal with recommendations aimed at enhancing the beauty and development of Greater Accra.” Mr. Cherry added that the Chamber is prepared to present a formal paper outlining practical steps the industry can take to address identified concerns. Responding on behalf of the Ga Mantse, Head of Protocol at the Ga Mantse’s Office, Ambassador Sylvester Parker-Allotey, acknowledged the challenges confronting the construction industry and called for urgent reforms. He highlighted the high cost of construction and persistent project delays as major concerns. “Construction is too expensive, and many projects are not completed on time. This is a serious issue that affects budgets and development planning,” he noted. Ambassador Parker-Allotey further raised concerns about safety lapses, citing frequent accidents and avoidable loss of lives at construction sites. He stressed the need for stricter supervision, adherence to standards, and proper resource allocation to prevent such incidents. He also criticized the growing practice of “cutting corners” in project execution, warning that it compromises structural integrity and public safety. “In the past, retention funds were kept aside to address defects after project completion. Today, that system is no longer strictly adhered to, with some contractors demanding full payment before completing their work,” he observed. The Head of Protocol further called for better urban planning, including the designation of properly structured residential and industrial zones to ensure orderliness and improved quality of life for residents. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between traditional authorities and industry players in addressing infrastructural deficits and ensuring sustainable development across the capital. The Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry is expected to continue consultations and submit formal recommendations to the Ga Traditional Council in the coming weeks. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno , on Monday led a high-powered delegation of the Police Management Board (POMAB) on a courtesy call to the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II , at his residence in Accra. The visit, marked by warm exchanges and goodwill, followed a recent gory accident involving the revered traditional ruler. Addressing the Ga Mantse, Mr. Yohuno said news of the unfortunate incident deeply concerned the leadership of the Ghana Police Service, making it imperative for him and his team to personally call on the King to express their solidarity and wish him a speedy and full recovery. He expressed gratitude to God for sparing the life of the Ga Mantse and assured him of the continued prayers and support of the Police Service. “We deemed it appropriate to come in person to thank God for your life and to assure you of our unwavering support. We will continue to pray for your good health and strength,” the IGP stated. The Ga Mantse, in his response, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the IGP and members of POMAB for the thoughtful gesture. He particularly commended the Ghana Police Service for its swift and professional response at the scene of the accident, noting that their timely intervention played a crucial role in ensuring his survival. In an emotional moment, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II singled out an officer identified as Kennedy Frimpong for special praise, urging the IGP to consider promoting him in recognition of his prompt and lifesaving efforts. The King also used the occasion to commend the Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Lydia Yaako Donkor , for what he described as her exceptional leadership and outstanding service to the nation. He encouraged her to continue to excel in her role, emphasizing that her dedication and achievements serve as a powerful inspiration to female officers within the Service and beyond. The visit underscored the strong relationship between the Ghana Police Service and traditional authorities, highlighting a shared commitment to community safety, mutual respect, and national development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A high-powered delegation from the Kingdom of Dagbon has paid a courtesy call on the Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse to express solidarity and wish him a speedy recovery following his recent road accident in the Oti Region. The delegation, conveyed the warm regards and prayers of the King and people of Dagbon. They noted that the Ga Mantse had earlier visited Dagbon to strengthen the bonds of friendship and brotherhood between the two kingdoms, describing his outreach as a noble and unifying mission. According to the spokesperson, news of the accident was received with deep concern in Yendi, prompting continuous prayers for his recovery. The delegation explained that the visit was directed by the Yaa Naa himself to personally assess the Ga Mantse’s condition and reaffirm the longstanding ties between Dagbon and the Ga State. They expressed gratitude to God for preserving the life of the Ga Mantse and those with him during the incident, describing his survival as a sign that he remains destined to continue his mission of unity and cooperation among traditional authorities. In response, Ambassador Sylvester Parker-Allotey, speaking on behalf of the Ga Mantse, thanked the Yaa Naa and the people of Dagbon for their prayers and support. He confirmed that although the accident was unfortunate, all occupants were preserved, and the Ga Mantse has since received medical attention and is recovering steadily at home. He assured the Dagbon delegation that they had met the Ga Mantse in good health and conveyed appreciation for the enduring friendship between the two traditional kingdoms. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has held a homecoming presentation session in Accra for Ghanaian government officials who recently completed graduate studies in Japan under the Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS). The event formed part of activities marking over a decade of investment in Ghana’s human capital through the scholarship initiative, which is funded by the Government of Japan. Since its introduction in Ghana in 2012, the JDS programme has produced 143 fellows. Many alumni now serve in key positions across ministries and public agencies, contributing to policy reforms in sectors including Economics, Public Administration, Public Health and International Relations. Now in its 14th year, the programme remains one of Japan’s flagship human resource development initiatives in Ghana, aimed at equipping promising young civil servants with advanced academic knowledge and practical skills to drive institutional reforms and national development. During the homecoming session, recently returned scholars delivered presentations outlining the practical outcomes of their academic research in Japan. The alumni demonstrated how lessons drawn from Japan’s modernization experience and governance systems are being adapted to address Ghana’s development challenges and strengthen public administration. The session emphasized results-oriented knowledge transfer, with participants highlighting policy innovations and institutional improvements influenced by their studies abroad. As part of the programme, JICA also hosted a seminar titled “Japan’s Diplomacy toward Africa and the Current State of Japanese Corporate Investment.” The lecture was delivered by Shirato Keiichi of Ritsumeikan University. Prof. Shirato noted that global dynamics are shifting toward rapid multipolarity, with the relative economic dominance of traditional powers such as the United States, Europe and Japan gradually declining as emerging economies gain influence. He stressed that African nations are no longer passive aid recipients but active political and economic actors shaping the global system. According to him, Africa’s youthful population and rapid demographic growth are driving increasing interest from Japanese corporations and other global investors. Prof. Shirato called for a shift from the traditional donor–recipient model to a more equal, co-creative partnership between Japan and African countries. He added that fiscal constraints and growing “anti-aid” sentiment in developed nations further underscore the need for sustainable, mutually beneficial cooperation frameworks. In his concluding remarks, Prof. Shirato described JDS alumni as vital bridges between Japan and Africa, given their understanding of both contexts. JICA reaffirmed its commitment to its vision of “Leading the World with Trust,” pledging continued support for Ghanaian officials through the scholarship scheme. The agency said empowering public servants with Japanese expertise and local insight would help generate tangible development outcomes and strengthen economic ties between the two nations. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, paid a courtesy visit to the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, at his residence to wish him a speedy recovery following a recent accident. Dr. Bawumia expressed concern about the Ga Mantse’s health and conveyed his well wishes on behalf of the government and the people of Ghana. He also prayed for the King’s full and swift recovery so he can continue his leadership and traditional duties for the Ga State. The visit, which took place at the Ga Mantse’s residence in Accra, highlighted the strong relationship between government leadership and traditional authorities. It also demonstrated respect for the Ga Traditional Council and its important role in national unity and cultural preservation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has appealed to health professionals across the country to accept postings to deprived and underserved communities as part of a national effort to strengthen equitable healthcare delivery. Delivering his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on the floor of Parliament on Friday, President Mahama called on what he described as Ghana’s “gallant health workers” to respond positively to postings outside major urban centres. “Let me use this opportunity to appeal to our gallant health workers to accept postings to our underserved areas, seeing as it is a national call to duty, while we work to ensure that they have an enabling environment to do their work,” the President stated. Strengthening Health Infrastructure The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment not to abandon ongoing and unfinished health projects. He said government would continue retooling facilities, strengthening emergency and disease surveillance systems, and aligning infrastructure expansion with staffing, equipment and financing. In the 2026 Budget, provision will be made to commence the construction of regional hospitals in the Oti, Savannah and Western North Regions to expand access to quality healthcare. He also announced that government would implement Phase Two of the Regional Hospital Project to increase bed capacity at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, while continuing work on the Police Hospital and the La General Hospital. In the Ashanti Region, projects to be completed include the maternity and children’s block of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. President Mahama disclosed plans to scale up specialist and advanced nursing training to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare workforce. He further revealed that access to advanced cardiac care — including cardiac catheterization services — would be expanded at: Tamale Teaching Hospital, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital The move, he said, would reduce overseas referrals and position Ghana as a centre for specialized care within the sub-region, in line with medical tourism objectives. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

President John Dramani Mahama has declared that the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) alone cannot support Ghana’s ambition to become West Africa’s leading hub for creative arts, entertainment, and international conferences. Delivering his State of the Nation Address (SONA) before Parliament on Friday, President Mahama said while the AICC has served the country with distinction over the years, it is no longer sufficient for a nation seeking to significantly expand its creative economy and attract large-scale global events. “AICC is not enough for a country seeking to develop its creative sector and become West Africa’s destination for meetings, conferences, musical concerts and entertainment,” the President told lawmakers. President Mahama announced that renovation and refurbishment works on the AICC will commence in the coming weeks. He disclosed that a structural integrity assessment was conducted at the request of the Office of the Chief of Staff by the original contractors of the facility in collaboration with a Ghanaian firm. The assessment, he said, made detailed recommendations for restoring the Centre to its iconic status as Ghana’s premier national and international conference venue. The planned works are expected to address structural upgrades, modernization of conference technology, refurbishment of auditoriums and meeting spaces, enhancement of safety and accessibility standards and improved hospitality and auxiliary facilities The President emphasized that restoring the AICC is part of a broader national strategy to strengthen Ghana’s meetings and events infrastructure. Beyond the AICC rehabilitation, President Mahama revealed that government will, in partnership with the private sector, commence work this year on a new state-of-the-art convention and creative events centre. The proposed facility is intended to: Position Ghana as West Africa’s leading MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) destination Host large-scale musical concerts and entertainment productions Attract international conventions and trade expos Support film, theatre, fashion and digital creative industries Generate employment and foreign exchange According to the President, the expansion of events infrastructure is central to unlocking the economic potential of Ghana’s creative arts sector, which continues to gain international recognition. In addition, President Mahama announced that renovation of the State Banquet Hall — which has been closed for several years — will begin in 2026. The move is aimed at restoring its capacity to host high-profile state functions and international gatherings. He noted that upgrading national event facilities would enhance Ghana’s global image and strengthen its ability to compete for major continental and global events. President Mahama framed the infrastructure drive within a broader tourism and national branding agenda. He stressed that major international events — including global sporting tournaments and high-level conferences — present opportunities to promote Ghana’s image, culture, and investment potential. He underscored that a thriving creative sector can boost GDP growth, expand job opportunities for youth, increase tourism receipts, strengthen Ghana’s cultural diplomacy and enhance national brand equity. The President said Ghana must deliberately invest in infrastructure that matches its ambitions. “We must build the facilities that reflect our aspirations,” he stated, adding that creative industries are no longer peripheral but central to economic transformation. In concluding this segment of his address, President Mahama called for unity of purpose in advancing Ghana’s development agenda. He urged citizens to channel the same collective resolve often demonstrated during moments of national pride toward sustained economic and institutional progress. He reaffirmed his personal commitment to accountability, stating: “The buck stops with the President. I live by that statement every day.” However, he emphasized that nation-building requires the collective effort of all Ghanaians — from policymakers to entrepreneurs, workers, creatives and civil servants. The President concluded on an optimistic note, invoking an African proverb: 'However long the night is, the dawn will break'. He said the 'dawn is breaking for Ghana' but stressed that renewal must be built deliberately through institutional reform, economic discipline, and national cohesion. The Accra International Conference Centre, commissioned in 1991, has historically hosted major national and international events. However, increasing demand for larger and more technologically advanced venues has intensified calls for modernization and expansion of Ghana’s conference infrastructure. President Mahama’s 2026 SONA signals a renewed push to leverage the creative economy and events tourism as key pillars of Ghana’s development strategy. Story by: Hawa Abubakar

President John Dramani Mahama revealed that approximately 350,000 Ghanaians are currently living with HIV and AIDS. He made these remarks during his 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament on Friday. He noted that although Ghana’s national HIV prevalence rate is relatively low at 1.6%, certain regions and population groups experience significantly higher rates. President Mahama emphasized that the government is taking decisive steps to strengthen the healthcare system’s response to the epidemic. He hinted that the Ghana AIDS Commission has been tasked with ensuring nationwide availability of HIV testing services and antiretroviral treatments. Mr. Mahama also revealed that his government is fully rolling out a free primary healthcare program, removing cost barriers at the primary care level, which is where early detection and prevention are most critical. He further outlined measures to enhance the overall health system, including the expansion of advanced cardiac care, scaling up disease surveillance, and boosting local pharmaceutical and vaccine production. The President stressed that no patient must be turned away from health facilities, underscoring the government’s commitment to universal access to quality healthcare. “The government remains committed to building a stronger, more resilient, and self-reliant health system for all Ghanaians,” President Mahama said, adding that strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, personnel, and preventive programs will continue to safeguard the nation’s wellbeing. This disclosure forms part of a broader set of reforms under the Mahama Care initiative, which includes measures such as uncapping the National Health Insurance Levy, increasing provider tariffs, regularizing nursing trainee allowances, and recruiting thousands of health workers to underserved regions. President Mahama’s address highlighted the government’s multi-pronged approach to tackling both communicable and non-communicable diseases while improving healthcare access, infrastructure, and workforce capacity nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith