As Ghana advances its infrastructure expansion efforts under its national development agenda, the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), in collaboration with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), has begun a high-level engagement in Sekondi Takoradi to strengthen infrastructure stewardship and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) implementation at the local level. The four-day engagement, taking place from 27 to 30 January 2026, focuses on improving how public infrastructure is planned, financed, managed and maintained across Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). It forms part of broader efforts to reinforce linkages between national planning frameworks and sub-national implementation, while strengthening coherence between Ghana’s Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) and emerging Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs). A central feature of the collaboration is the introduction of UN DESA’s Infrastructure Asset Management (IAM) approach. The model seeks to institutionalise systematic planning and maintenance of public assets, ensuring that infrastructure investments deliver long-term value, efficiency and improved service delivery. Chairman of NDPC, Dr Nii Moi Thompson, emphasised that expanding infrastructure must be matched with strong institutional discipline and a national maintenance culture. He noted that while government continues to invest in infrastructure under initiatives such as the Big Push, sustainability depends on integrity, efficiency and responsible stewardship of public resources. Dr Thompson further underscored that public institutions must lead by example, demonstrating credibility and accountability in their own systems and practices. He linked the initiative to the Good Society Campaign under Ghana’s 40-Year National Development Plan, highlighting principles such as respect for law and order, resource stewardship, integrity and lifelong learning as foundational to sustaining infrastructure and improving human settlements. Welcoming participants, the Mayor of the Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, Hon. Fredrick F. Faidoo, reaffirmed the importance of translating the SDGs into practical investments and measurable outcomes at the local level. He stressed the need for stronger coordination between national and local reporting processes, improved data systems, and enhanced capacity of MMDAs to manage and maintain public assets effectively. Representing the Local Government Service, Chief Development Planning Officer Mr Collins Ohene Gyan noted that decentralisation places local authorities at the centre of SDG delivery. He emphasised that infrastructure provision alone is insufficient without effective asset management systems that protect public investment and ensure sustained service delivery, particularly in advancing resilient infrastructure, sustainable cities and responsible consumption and production. On behalf of the United Nations system, Mr Martino Miraglia of UN-Habitat highlighted the critical role of cities and local governments in driving SDG progress through effective multi-level governance. He commended Ghana’s progress in integrating the SDGs into planning and monitoring systems and reaffirmed the importance of partnership in translating global commitments into tangible local impact. He also acknowledged the support of the Governments of Italy and Norway in advancing SDG localisation efforts. The engagement underscores Ghana’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure governance, protecting public investments, and accelerating sustainable development outcomes through coordinated action at both national and local levels. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has called for urgent and collective action to finance Africa’s industrialisation, stressing that economic freedom on the continent cannot be achieved without deep economic transformation. Speaking at the Africa Trade Summit 2026 on Accra, President Mahama said Africa had reached a historic turning point, noting that the continent must break away from an economic model that limits it to exporting raw materials while importing finished goods. “That model is a new form of colonialism designed to trap Africa in perpetual poverty,” he stated. President Mahama emphasized that Africa’s industrialisation must be driven by its comparative advantages, particularly in manufacturing and agro-processing, which he said create jobs, raise incomes, build skills, and support inclusive growth. Despite its vast resources, Africa’s share of global manufacturing remains below two percent, a situation he described as unacceptable. According to him, many African economies remain stuck in low-productivity primary production, forcing millions of young people to migrate in search of opportunities. “The question before us is simple: how do we finance Africa’s industrialisation at the scale and speed required?” he asked. President Mahama identified limited access to long-term and affordable financing—especially for small and medium-sized enterprises—as a major obstacle, citing shallow financial markets, high interest rates, rising debt burdens, and extractive investment models. He proposed a multi-pronged approach, beginning with improved domestic resource mobilisation through better revenue collection, stronger public financial management, and decisive action against illicit financial flows. He also urged African countries to unlock institutional capital, noting that pension funds, insurance companies, and sovereign wealth funds across the continent manage hundreds of billions of dollars that could be channelled into industrial development through instruments such as industrial bonds, infrastructure funds, diaspora financing, and blended finance mechanisms. President Mahama further called for stronger roles for African financial institutions, including the African Development Bank, to mobilise private capital and support regional industrial networks. According to him, governments must actively attract private sector investment through public-private partnerships, risk-sharing mechanisms, and credit guarantees, while ensuring stable policies, transparent regulations, reliable infrastructure, and respect for the rule of law. He added that development partners and multilateral institutions also have a role to play by providing concessional financing, guarantees, and insurance instruments to de-risk industrial projects, while Africa continues to push for reforms to the global financial system. Touching on value addition and beneficiation, President Mahama lamented Africa’s long-standing practice of exporting raw cocoa, oil, cotton, timber, and minerals only to import finished products at much higher prices. Using cocoa as an example, he noted that although Africa produces the majority of the world’s cocoa, it captures only a small fraction of the value of the global chocolate market. In Ghana, he said deliberate steps are being taken to transition from a commodity-export economy to a value-added one, with a focus on agro-processing, manufacturing, and industrial clusters linked to the country’s natural resources. President Mahama also highlighted Ghana’s efforts to assert greater sovereignty over its natural resources, citing the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board as a major milestone. He revealed that before the Gold Board’s creation, only a fraction of foreign exchange from small-scale gold exports was repatriated. However, since its establishment in April 2025, exports from the small-scale mining sector have increased significantly, with substantially higher foreign exchange returns to the central bank. He added that local content laws now require foreign investors in the extractive sector to partner with Ghanaian companies. President Mahama concluded by stressing that Africa’s industrialisation cannot succeed within fragmented national markets, calling for stronger regional value chains and investment in transport corridors to support seamless movement of raw materials, intermediate goods, and finished products across the continent. On his part; Mr. Sam Jonah hinted that Africa stands at a historic crossroads and must urgently industrialize, deepen intra-African trade, and assert its economic self-interest or risk being sidelined in a rapidly fragmenting global order. Sir Sam Jonah said the global economy is entering a period of “rupture,” where trade, supply chains and economic power are increasingly being weaponised by major powers. Drawing on recent remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Sir Sam Jonah said the era of a predictable, rules-based global order was giving way to a “brutal reality” in which countries not actively shaping outcomes risk being exploited. “If we are not at the table, we are on the menu,” he cautioned, stressing that Africa can no longer rely on exporting raw materials while others reap the benefits of value addition. He noted that rising protectionism in the United States, China’s expanding economic influence, geopolitical tensions, and climate-related shocks were placing severe strain on African economies, disrupting exports, inflating costs, and deepening debt vulnerabilities. These pressures, he said, were already eroding investment and diminishing opportunities for Africa’s youth. According to Sir Sam Jonah, Africa’s long-standing growth model—anchored on commodity exports without industrial depth—has proven unsustainable. “Industrialisation is not a luxury; it is our shield and our sword,” he said, arguing that without local value addition, Africa would remain trapped in low-value global supply chains and exposed to external shocks. He pointed to the paradox of Africa exporting critical minerals, cocoa, oil and agricultural products while importing finished goods made from its own resources at far higher costs. This, he said, reflects a global system that rewards processing and manufacturing while penalising raw production. Sir Sam Jonah urged African leaders to adopt what he described as a “boldly selfish” approach—one that prioritises African interests by insisting on mineral beneficiation, agro-processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing and industrial value chains located on the continent. “Selfish does not mean exclusionary,” he explained. “It means creating jobs that dignify, wealth that circulates within our economies, and futures that inspire our people.” Central to this transformation, he said, is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which he described as Africa’s “lifeline” in a fractured world. However, he warned that the agreement risks remaining symbolic unless fully implemented. He called for urgent harmonisation of standards, streamlined customs systems, improved infrastructure and strict enforcement of trade rules to unlock Africa’s vast internal market of over 1.4 billion people. Sir Sam Jonah also highlighted priority sectors for industrialisation, including mining beneficiation, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure development and renewable energy, noting that Africa must move from being a supplier of raw materials to a producer of finished goods and innovation. “Position in the value chain determines power. Volume alone is vulnerability,” he said. He challenged African governments, financiers and private-sector leaders attending the summit to translate dialogue into action, commit to bankable projects, and ensure inclusive industrial growth that incorporates SMEs, women and young people. As the summit opened under the theme “Financing Africa’s Industrialisation: Developing Industrial Value Chains, Beneficiation and Market Integration,” Sir Sam Jonah called for principled pragmatism—upholding sovereignty and sustainability while decisively pursuing Africa’s economic interests. “The table is being reset,” he said. “Africa must claim its seat—not as a supplier of scraps, but as a shaper of the global economy.” Taking her turn; Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare noted that Africa must take deliberate, well-financed steps to industrialise or risk remaining trapped as a supplier of raw materials in an increasingly protectionist global economy, has said. She said the continent is at a defining moment, where strategic choices on financing industrialisation will determine whether Africa emerges as a global industrial powerhouse or continues to lag in value addition. Addressing the opening session of the summit in the presence of President John Dramani Mahama, other African Heads of State, ministers, business leaders and development partners, Ofosu-Adjare noted that global industrial policy has undergone a major shift since 2020. Citing data from the International Monetary Fund’s Industrial Policy Observatory, she said more than 34,000 industrial policy interventions were implemented globally between 2009 and 2023, largely driven by subsidies, as countries increasingly pursue supply-chain resilience, national security and strategic autonomy. “The message is clear: industrial policy is back, and it is being financed aggressively,” she said. According to the Minister, the key question for Africa is no longer whether to pursue industrial policy, but how to finance it effectively in the face of limited fiscal space and an increasingly fragmented global trading system. She outlined lessons Africa can adapt from advanced economies, including the use of blended finance, strategic sector targeting, value-chain-driven support, and localisation policies. She pointed to examples such as the United States’ Inflation Reduction Act, the European Union’s Green Deal, and China’s long-term state-backed industrial financing. Against this global backdrop, Ofosu-Adjare said Ghana has adopted sector-specific industrial policies supported by innovative financing models, moving away from broad, generic incentives. She identified textiles and garments, automotive components, and pharmaceuticals as priority sectors where Ghana has strong comparative advantages and the potential to develop full value chains. In the textiles and garments sector, she said Ghana is leveraging employment opportunities, regional market access under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), AGOA, and the EU Economic Partnership Agreement, as well as high-quality cotton produced in the sub-region. She highlighted the role of firms such as DTRT Apparel, UNIJAY, and other local manufacturers in building scalable garment manufacturing capacity, describing the sector as a strong foundation for job creation and regional leadership. On automotive components, the Minister noted that Ghana’s Automotive Development Policy has already attracted more than $100 million in foreign direct investment, but stressed that assembling imported kits alone is insufficient. “True industrialisation requires producing components, building upstream linkages, and developing skills and technological capabilities,” she said, adding that the global shift to electric vehicles presents new entry points for African countries. In the pharmaceutical sector, Ofosu-Adjare said Africa’s heavy reliance on imports—over 70% of pharmaceutical needs—represents both a vulnerability and a major opportunity. She noted that the African pharmaceutical market is projected to grow from $14 billion to $40 billion by 2030, creating scope for Ghana to serve regional demand through local production. She said Ghana’s medicinal plant resources and existing pharmaceutical firms provide a strong base, but investment in active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production and advanced manufacturing remains critical. The Minister underscored the importance of development finance institutions such as Afreximbank, the African Development Bank, and the Trade and Development Bank in financing industrial projects through de-risking and blended finance. She also called on governments to support industrialisation with stable macroeconomic policies, predictable regulation, efficient trade facilitation and targeted incentives. Addressing concerns about the affordability of subsidies, Ofosu-Adjare acknowledged Africa’s fiscal constraints but said this makes blended finance and regional coordination under AfCFTA even more essential to avoid duplication and subsidy races. “Africa has every right—and responsibility—to finance its own industrialisation,” she said, adding that success will depend on clear strategies, transparency, and the ability to mobilise private capital. She concluded by stressing that Ghana’s industrial support programmes are about more than individual sectors. “They are about proving that Africa can finance industrial transformation through intentional policy, strategic partnerships, and disciplined execution,” she said. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of robust and comprehensive security arrangements for its presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, warning that the Police Service will deal decisively with any attempt to disrupt the process. Speaking on Thursday at the signing of the NPP Presidential Peace Pact at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, the IGP said the Ghana Police Service is fully prepared to ensure a peaceful, orderly and credible election across the country. “The police are more ‘macho’ than your ‘macho men,’” Mr Yohuno declared, cautioning individuals or groups who may be contemplating intimidation or violence. "If anyone disregards the caution given and attempts to cause trouble, we will arrest them. The Police Service will act professionally and without fear or favour.” According to him, the Police Service began preparations immediately after receiving formal notification from the party and has since identified all locations where the primaries will be conducted. “We have identified all the areas where the elections will take place and established 256 police centres plus one,” the IGP said. “We have completed our operational plans and met all regional commanders responsible for these areas. They are fully ready to deploy.” He explained that a three-tier security arrangement—comprising inner, middle and outer deployments—has been put in place to protect delegates, party officials, electoral materials and voting centres. The outer layer, he noted, will focus on preventive safety measures to forestall any disturbances. Mr Yohuno disclosed that special attention has been given to areas considered sensitive, including parts of Bawku, where the Police Service has requested military support to complement its operations. He added that the security situation in all other areas remains calm. “Our officers have undergone extensive training and preparation,” he said, noting that several regional commanders had indicated their readiness to conduct the elections even immediately. Commending the NPP for engaging the Police Service early and prioritising peace, the IGP said the strong police presence at the event reflected the Service’s commitment to the peace pact and the democratic process. “All we want is peace so that, at the end of the day, the process will be successful and everyone will enjoy the fruits of this democratic exercise,” he said. The assurance comes as the NPP prepares to elect its presidential candidate, with party leaders and security agencies jointly emphasising discipline, unity and peaceful conduct before, during and after the January 31 primaries. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has cautioned New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirants that disunity after the party’s January 31 primaries could come at a heavy political cost, warning that internal fractures could weaken the party’s effectiveness in Parliament and jeopardise its chances in the 2028 general elections. Speaking on Thursday in Accra at the signing of a Peace Pact by five NPP presidential hopefuls, the Effutu MP described life in opposition as “painful and lonely,” stressing that only a united party can mount a formidable challenge both in Parliament and at the national level. “Peace does not happen by accident. It is the product of deliberate effort,” Mr Afenyo-Markin said, urging the aspirants to conduct issue-based, respectful campaigns and to commit themselves to rallying behind whoever emerges victorious. He emphasised that the real success of the primaries should not be measured by individual triumph, but by the extent to which the process strengthens party cohesion and empowers the Minority Caucus in Parliament. “A house divided at the grassroots and within the leadership cannot function as a formidable opposition,” he warned, adding that unity must be consciously built before, during and after the primaries. The Peace Pact, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is intended to reassure party members, delegates and the wider public of the NPP’s commitment to internal democracy, orderly competition and cohesion. It reflects the aspirants’ collective resolve to place party interest above personal ambition. The five aspirants who signed the pact were former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia; former Assin Central MP and businessman Kennedy Ohene Agyapong; former Minister for Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong; former Minister for Education Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum; and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong. Each received a signed copy of the MoU as a symbol of their pledge to uphold peace throughout the process. The ceremony was organised by the party’s Presidential Elections Committee, chaired by former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and ex-MP for Bekwai, Joseph Osei Owusu. It marks a significant step in the NPP’s preparations for a peaceful and credible primary as the party repositions itself for the 2028 general elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture (MoFA) has taken a major step toward transforming Ghana’s fisheries and aquaculture sector following high-level strategic discussions with the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (CAFS), China’s leading national fisheries research institution. The engagement, led by the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hon. Emelia Arthur (MP), forms part of the Government of Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme (24H+), which seeks to strengthen food security, create jobs, expand exports and enhance industrial competitiveness through strategic international partnerships. The meeting, held at the headquarters of CAFS in Beijing, brought together senior officials from the Ministry, the 24H+ Secretariat and key Ghanaian economic institutions, alongside the leadership and technical directors of CAFS. Fisheries and Aquaculture as a National Development Priority Addressing the meeting, Hon. Emelia Arthur reaffirmed that fisheries and aquaculture remain critical pillars of Ghana’s development agenda, contributing significantly to food and nutrition security, employment, export earnings and the sustainable development of the Blue Economy. She outlined Government’s vision to build a resilient, well-governed and science-driven fisheries and aquaculture sector, supported by strong institutions, modern technology and data-led decision-making. “The Ministry is deliberately pursuing research-led partnerships that will strengthen Ghana’s capacity across aquaculture expansion, fisheries resource management, disease control, value addition and human capital development,” the Minister stated. Deepening the 66-Year Ghana–China Partnership The engagement builds on the 66-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Ghana and China, with fisheries and aquaculture identified as a priority area for long-term cooperation. CAFS, which operates under China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, showcased its extensive technical and institutional capacity, including: 14 specialised fisheries and aquaculture research institutes Nearly 5,000 scientists and technical experts Advanced research vessels, laboratories and field stations Active cooperation programmes in more than 40 countries, including across Africa Key Areas of Cooperation Discussed 1. Aquaculture and Mariculture Development The Ministry expressed strong interest in collaboration to expand Ghana’s aquaculture production and close the national fish supply gap through: Marine fish farming (mariculture) systems Species diversification beyond tilapia Inland and coastal cage farming Scaled production for domestic and export markets 2. Capture Fisheries and Resource Management Discussions covered: Joint fish stock assessments and marine surveys Research vessel collaboration Strengthening fisheries data systems Combating Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing Addressing climate change impacts on marine ecosystems 3. Fish Disease Control and Biosecurity MoFA highlighted existing national gaps in biosecurity and disease surveillance. CAFS expressed readiness to support Ghana through: Development of national biosecurity frameworks Strengthening diagnostic and laboratory systems Capacity building for fisheries officers and researchers 4. Capacity Building and Human Capital Development Both sides explored structured cooperation including: Scholarships and postgraduate training programmes Technical exchanges and expert deployments Partnerships with Ghanaian universities and research institutions Strengthening national fisheries research infrastructure 5. Fisheries Infrastructure and Value Chain Development Priority areas identified included: Fish processing and cold-chain infrastructure Feed production systems Aquaculture demonstration parks Support for Phase II development of the Fisheries College Next Steps The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture will lead the next phase of engagement, which will include: Drafting a Framework Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CAFS Identifying priority joint research programmes Planning CAFS technical missions to Ghana Establishing structured training and scholarship pipelines Exploring infrastructure collaboration and investment models A joint working group involving MoFA, CAFS and the 24H+ Secretariat is expected to be established by February 2026, with pilot projects targeted for rollout by mid-2026. Strategic Impact The engagement positions fisheries and aquaculture as a strategic anchor of Ghana–China cooperation, aligned with: National food security goals Export expansion under the AfCFTA framework Research-driven policy and governance Sustainable Blue Economy growth Long-term skills and institutional development The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that international partnerships translate into tangible benefits for fishers, fish farmers, processors and coastal communities across Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government Statistician, Dr Alhassan Iddrisu, has called on households to maintain active National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) coverage and ensure that children remain in school consistently, as Ghana records notable improvements in living conditions. According to Ghana’s 2024 Q1–2025 Q3 Multidimensional Poverty Report, multidimensional poverty — a non-monetary measure that captures deprivations in health, education and living conditions — declined from 24.9 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2024 to 21.9 per cent by the third quarter of 2025. Dr Iddrisu explained that while the overall trend points to progress, gaps in health insurance coverage and education remain among the most persistent drivers of poverty, particularly in rural communities and some regions of the country. The report indicates that more than 360,000 people exited multidimensional poverty between the second and third quarters of 2025 alone, while nearly 950,000 people moved out of poverty between the third quarter of 2024 and the third quarter of 2025. Despite these gains, an estimated 7.2 million Ghanaians were still classified as multidimensionally poor in the third quarter of 2025. The Government Statistician noted that inactive or lapsed NHIS memberships continue to expose households to health-related shocks, while irregular school attendance and learning delays increase the risk of long-term deprivation among children. “These figures are not just statistics. They are signals for action,” Dr Iddrisu said, adding that households play a critical role in sustaining poverty reduction by renewing health insurance regularly, keeping children in school without interruption and ensuring that learning gaps are addressed early. The report further recommends that families improve household nutrition, especially for children, participate in skills development and livelihood programmes, and take steps to improve living conditions, particularly sanitation and overcrowding. Dr Iddrisu emphasised that protecting gains made in poverty reduction will require coordinated efforts by government, the private sector, civil society and households, with education and healthcare access remaining central to building resilient communities. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

One personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has been shot during an anti-galamsey operation in the Dormaa Central Municipality of the Bono Region. The incident occurred on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, along the Subinkurom–Kyeremasu stretch, when a NAIMOS task force team was conducting a routine operation to clamp down on illegal mining activities. According to NAIMOS, the task force came under attack after armed assailants hiding in nearby bushes opened fire upon sighting the team. This resulted in an exchange of gunfire between the operatives and the attackers. During the confrontation, one NAIMOS officer sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh. The injured officer was immediately rushed to the St. Matthew Catholic Hospital at Ampenkuro, where he is currently receiving treatment and responding positively, officials said. In the course of the exchange, one of the armed assailants was shot and later pronounced dead on arrival at the same hospital. The deceased has been identified as Abuu Ibrahim. In a statement signed by its Media Relations Officer, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, NAIMOS condemned the attack and reiterated its commitment to the fight against illegal mining, despite what it described as persistent attacks and disruptions to its operations. The Secretariat further called on the public and all stakeholders to continue supporting its efforts to address illegal mining, which it says poses serious threats to the environment, local communities, and national development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has signed a landmark gold refining agreement with Gold Coast Refinery, a move government says will significantly advance Ghana’s efforts to add value to its mineral resources and strengthen local participation in the mining value chain. The agreement was signed at a ceremony held on Tuesday at GoldBod’s conference room in Accra, bringing together officials from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, GoldBod, and representatives of Gold Coast Refinery. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, described the agreement as “a major milestone in Ghana’s efforts to add value to its mineral resources,” noting that it aligns with the government’s broader industrialisation and value-addition agenda. According to him, the partnership is expected to enable large-scale local gold refining to begin in 2026, reducing Ghana’s dependence on foreign refineries and ensuring that more value from the country’s gold production is retained within the local economy. He explained that local refining will not only improve Ghana’s earnings from gold exports but also create jobs, enhance skills development, and facilitate technology transfer within the mining and allied sectors. Alhaji Sulemana commended the leadership of GoldBod and Gold Coast Refinery for their commitment to the partnership, stressing that government will play its part to ensure the success and sustainability of the project. He further assured current and prospective investors of government’s support, emphasizing that Ghana remains a safe, stable, and attractive destination for investment in the natural resources sector. The agreement is expected to position Ghana more competitively in the global gold market while contributing to economic growth and long-term development through value-added mineral processing. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has signed a gold refining agreement with Gold Coast Refinery, paving the way for large-scale local gold refining to commence from February 1, 2026. The agreement marks a major milestone in Ghana’s efforts to add value to its gold resources locally and strengthen responsible sourcing and sustainability within the sector. Under the partnership, Gold Coast Refinery will refine gold to internationally accepted export standards, with the facility capable of producing gold at three nines, four nines, and up to five nines purity. The refinery meets a minimum purity threshold of 89.5%. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Sammy Gyamfi, described the initiative as leadership by example. He disclosed that GoldBod will begin by refining one metric ton of gold every week from February 1, 2026, with plans to scale up production. “We own, we control, and we want to expand,” Mr. Gyamfi stated. A key feature of the agreement is a new hallmarking system. Every ounce of gold refined and exported under the arrangement will carry a hallmark bearing the emblems of the Gold Coast Refinery, Ghana Gold Board, Ghana Standards Authority, and the Bank of Ghana, reinforcing traceability and quality assurance. The Republic of Ghana holds a 15 percent free-carried interest in the Gold Coast Refinery, which is managed by GoldBod, further deepening state participation in the value chain. Executive Director, Gold Coast Refinery Ltd, Ehab Deraz, described the partnership as a significant milestone for Ghana’s economic transformation. Quoting President John Dramani Mahama’s statement that “the wallet is changing, and Africa is rising,” Dr. Deraz said the agreement reflects Ghana’s steady progress toward economic independence. Guided by this vision and national initiatives such as the 24-hour economy framework, he noted that Ghana is positioning itself as a confident and competitive nation. “Our goal was to build a world-class gold refinery in Accra, and we are proud to say we have achieved that,” he said. Completed in 2016, Gold Coast Refinery meets international standards and has the capacity to process up to 100 metric tons of gold annually at high purity levels. The facility holds all required licenses, Responsible Gold Certification (RGC), and ISO certifications, and is currently pursuing accreditation from the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA). The refinery offers services including assaying, refining, casting, and ethical gold sourcing. Dr. Deraz also announced a strategic partnership with RAN Refinery of South Africa—the country’s only LBMA-accredited refinery—and welcomed their technical team as part of efforts to enhance operational excellence. The gold refining agreement between GoldBod and Gold Coast Refinery is expected to significantly boost Ghana’s gold value chain, reduce reliance on foreign refining, and enhance the country’s standing in the global precious metals market. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

The Chairman of the Governing Council of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Rev. Stephen Wengam, has described the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, as one of the best Interior Ministers Ghana has ever had, praising his leadership and commitment to strengthening migration governance and border security. Rev. Wengam made these remarks during a courtesy call by members of the GIS Governing Council on the Minister at his office in Accra. He commended Hon. Muntaka for his dedication to building resilience within the Service and for ensuring transparency and fairness in the ongoing recruitment process. According to the Council Chair, the Minister’s support has been evident in the provision of critical logistics, including 20 pickup vehicles to enhance the operational capacity of the Service, a move he said underscores government’s commitment to improving the effectiveness of GIS. Rev. Wengam also announced that, in response to the Minister’s call for innovative and creative approaches to supporting the Council’s work, plans are underway to roll out a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative known as the Secure Our Borders (SECOBOD) project. The initiative is aimed at mobilising private sector support to help address key operational and security challenges confronting the Ghana Immigration Service. The Council Chair further highlighted a number of critical issues requiring urgent attention. These include concerns over promotions, the need for stronger institutional support to combat indiscipline and corruption, improvements in infrastructure, shortages of operational vehicles, the modernisation of border security systems, and the enhancement of officer welfare. In his response, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak expressed appreciation to the Council for its dedication and constructive engagement, assuring members of his unwavering support. He urged officers of the Ghana Immigration Service to remain professional and patriotic, stressing the need to always put the interest of the nation first. The Interior Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to the vision of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama to reset, retool and reform the Ghana Immigration Service. He noted that the Council’s proposals and initiatives align with key government priorities, including plans to construct seven new regional offices as part of the President’s broader agenda to retool security services across the country. Highlighting the strategic importance of immigration officers, Hon. Muntaka described them as the first point of contact at Ghana’s borders. He revealed that while the country has 48 legitimate entry routes, there are over 200 illegitimate ones, underscoring the urgent need for a robust and comprehensive border monitoring system. He further emphasised President Mahama’s strong interest in strengthening border surveillance and security infrastructure to safeguard the country and facilitate orderly migration. The visit underscored ongoing efforts by government and the GIS Governing Council to modernise the Service, strengthen border security, and address longstanding operational and welfare challenges facing officers of the Ghana Immigration Service. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has issued a strong warning to members of the public who attempt to bribe police officers, stating that such acts will no longer be tolerated and offenders will be exposed. The IGP gave the warning at a special event where gospel musician Grace Ashly presented an appreciation song to the leadership and personnel of the Ghana Police Service. Addressing officers and invited guests, COP Yohuno emphasized that the culture within the Service is changing, with greater focus now placed on integrity, professionalism, and performance-based promotions. “Anybody who attempts to bribe the policemen will be exposed,” the IGP cautioned, adding that police officers are now committed to doing their work diligently rather than engaging in corrupt practices. He noted that the era where officers waited to be honoured or promoted only after death is over, stressing that deserving officers will now be promoted while they are alive, based on hard work and dedication to duty. He encouraged personnel of the Service to remain focused, disciplined, and professional, assuring them that their efforts would not go unnoticed. The IGP also praised officers for presenting themselves well and urged them to continue striving for excellence in the discharge of their responsibilities. On her part, gospel musician Grace Ashly explained that the song was inspired by a personal experience in which officers of the Ghana Police Service came to her aid during a frightening situation. She recounted how the police response brought her comfort, safety, and reassurance, describing the officers as not only authoritative but also humane and compassionate. She used the occasion to commend the Ghana Police Service for its recent successes in fighting crime across the country, citing operations against armed robbery, human trafficking, narcotics, cybercrime, and weapons trafficking. According to her, these achievements reflect the Service’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives, maintaining public safety, and preserving national peace. Grace Ashly described policing as a calling that demands vigilance, sacrifice, and courage, and said the song was meant to encourage officers and show appreciation for their dedication. She also praised the leadership of the IGP and the Police Management Board, calling for continued public support for the Ghana Police Service. The event ended on a note of unity and appreciation, as both speakers reaffirmed the importance of integrity, service, and collaboration in strengthening law enforcement and national security. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse has emphasized the urgent need for collaboration-driven development, warning that failure to act decisively today would deny future generations their voice and opportunities. “If we fail, we have failed generation upon generation and we cannot afford to do that,” the Ga Mantse stated. He made these remarks when the President and Founder of Grow, Unite and Build Africa (GUBA), Lady Dentaa, paid a courtesy call on him at his palace in Accra on Thursday. The meeting focused on diaspora engagement, cultural preservation, education, youth development, and sustainable economic growth, with a strong emphasis on partnership rather than charity. According to King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ghana’s development must be approached with a long-term vision that prioritizes human capital, especially children and young people. He cautioned that neglecting development today would slow Ghana’s progress and silence future generations across Africa. The Ga Mantse expressed interest in initiatives that strengthen education and creativity, including children’s festivals, school programmes, and the establishment of libraries within communities to promote literacy and learning. Speaking during the courtesy call , President or Founder of Grow, Unite and Build Africa (GUBA), Lady Dentaa outlined her outfit’s mission to reconnect the African diaspora with the continent through development-focused initiatives. She noted that many Africans leave Ghana for Europe and the United States and never return, resulting in a loss of talent and skills. She explained that GUBA has facilitated the relocation of more than 150 people to Ghana, including Ghanaians from diverse ethnic backgrounds—Ga, Ashanti, and Ewe—as well as African Americans and other members of the global African diaspora. Lady Dentaa also highlighted the work of the GUBA Foundation, which supports children living with autism and focuses on health advocacy, education, and youth empowerment. She cited community initiatives such as clean-up exercises in Jamestown carried out in collaboration with the British High Commission, as well as reading clubs for street children behind the Arts Centre in Accra. “I believe development is not about people coming back to help us. It is about collaboration, trade, and sustainable growth,” Lady Dentaa said, adding that GUBA’s current theme is diaspora development rather than volunteerism. Also contributing to the discussion, Naa Korkor Amarteifio, Programmes Director at the Office of the Ga Mantse Palace, welcomed GUBA’s approach to diaspora engagement, particularly in the creative arts sector. She stressed that the Ga State does not seek charity but meaningful collaboration that expands opportunities within local communities. According to her, partnerships with diaspora creatives—including musicians, filmmakers, and artists—can help tell Ghana’s stories authentically while creating economic value. Naa Korkor Amarteifio also proposed commemorative activities to mark 200 years of peaceful coexistence between the Ga and Ashanti people, referencing the historical reconciliation following the Katamanso War. She suggested cultural events, educational programmes, and creative productions as ways to honour the milestone and educate younger generations. Chief of Staff to the Ga Mantse, Naa Yaaley Amoah, commended Lady Dentaa for her long-standing commitment to community development and diaspora relations and expressed appreciation for the engagement. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to explore practical areas of collaboration, particularly in education, creative arts, diaspora investment, and youth empowerment, aimed at securing Ghana’s development and safeguarding opportunities for generations to come. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith