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Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called on African countries to adopt bold and practical measures to bridge the gaps in the training and retention of health professionals, stressing that health remains central to productivity, economic resilience and national security. Speaking at the opening of the Second Africa Health Workforce Investment Forum in Accra on Wednesday, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang questioned why many African countries continued to lose trained health workers despite investing heavily in their education and development. “What makes it so easy for us to use scarce resources to train, and what makes it so difficult for us to retain the people we have trained?” she asked. The forum, organised by the World Health Organization in partnership with the Government of Ghana and other stakeholders, brought together heads of state, ministers, development partners, global health experts and private sector actors to advance implementation of the Africa Health Workforce Investment Charter. According to the WHO, nearly 500,000 health workers were trained across Africa between 2022 and 2024. However, one in every ten has already migrated from the continent, while four in ten are considering leaving in search of better opportunities abroad. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang noted that although progress had been made in life expectancy and healthcare delivery, access to universal healthcare remained a challenge for many due to high costs, long distances and inadequate services. She highlighted ongoing government interventions aimed at strengthening Ghana’s health sector, including the rollout of the Free Primary Health Care programme to improve access to essential healthcare services irrespective of insurance coverage. The Vice President also referenced the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, which supports persons battling chronic and high-cost illnesses through investment in specialist care, treatment facilities and medical equipment. She stressed that the success of such initiatives depended heavily on a strong and motivated health workforce, describing healthcare professionals as the backbone of national health sovereignty. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang disclosed that government had prioritised the training, recruitment and fair distribution of health personnel nationwide, with about 16,000 health workers expected to be employed this year, many of whom had already received clearance. Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh said despite improvements in the number of doctors, nurses and midwives across the continent, African countries still faced challenges relating to deployment, equitable distribution and staff retention. He revealed that Ghana had undertaken a comprehensive health labour market assessment to guide policy reforms and was implementing a national health workforce development strategy to align training, employment and service delivery. Mr Akandoh further announced plans to introduce structured workforce exchange programmes aimed at ensuring ethical and mutually beneficial labour mobility while safeguarding Ghana’s healthcare needs. “These programmes are intended to promote ethical, regular and mutually beneficial labour mobility, protect the needs of Ghana’s health system and create organised opportunities for young Ghanaian health professionals to gain international experience,” he said. WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Yakub Janabi, also called for stronger international collaboration and co-investment initiatives to support the training and retention of healthcare professionals across the continent. He urged African leaders and development partners to move beyond policy discussions and focus on practical implementation that would deliver measurable improvements in healthcare systems. “Documents have never saved lives. Actions have done,” Prof. Janabi stated. He further advocated structured government-to-government partnerships that would align international recruitment with investments in training institutions to sustain Africa’s health workforce and reduce migration pressures. Story by; Joshua Kwabena Smith

Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has called for urgent and coordinated investment in Africa’s health workforce, warning that the continent’s growing shortage of health professionals threatens efforts to improve healthcare delivery and achieve universal health coverage. Speaking at the opening of the first high-level roundtable discussion of the 2nd Africa Health Workforce Investment Forum in Accra, Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah stressed the need for African governments and development partners to move beyond policy commitments and focus on practical implementation. Addressing ministers, health experts, partners, and health worker representatives, she said the forum, themed “Turning Words into Action on Africa’s Health Workforce Investment: Plan, Train, Retain,” was intended to drive decisive action on strengthening Africa’s healthcare systems. “Vision alone is not enough. We must now translate evidence into costed, budgeted, and multisectoral investment plans that deliver jobs, skills, and retained health workers at scale,” she stated. According to her, the Africa Health Workforce Investment Charter adopted in Windhoek provided a shared framework for countries to prioritise, align, invest, and sustain workforce development efforts, but implementation remained critical. Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah revealed that Africa is projected to face a shortage of 6.1 million health workers by 2030, despite about 27 per cent of trained health professionals currently remaining unemployed. “This is not a policy gap — it is a coordination and financing challenge,” she emphasized, adding that without deliberate expansion of fiscal space, alignment between education and labour market demands, and stronger retention policies, many commitments would fail to produce the needed healthcare workforce. She explained that the roundtable discussion sought to review progress made since the Windhoek declaration through the Africa Health Workforce Investments Scorecard, identify challenges affecting workforce development, promote practical solutions for implementing workforce investment strategies, and secure commitments on financing, employment, education reforms, and retention. The Deputy Health Minister further underscored that investment in the health workforce should not be viewed solely as a health sector issue but as a broader national development priority involving finance, education, labour, and governance sectors. “This roundtable is a whole-of-government dialogue. Health workforce investment is simultaneously a health system priority, a fiscal decision, an education system output, and a labour market outcome,” she noted. Welcoming participants to Ghana, she expressed appreciation to the World Health Organization Africa Regional Office (WHO AFRO) for co-organising the meeting with the Government of Ghana. “Good morning, Akwaaba, and welcome to Accra on behalf of the Government of Ghana and WHO AFRO, who are co-organisers of this meeting. I am delighted to see a rich convergence of senior-level technical experts across all sectors,” she said. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, on Monday visited selected Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) centres across Accra to observe the start of the 2026 nationwide examinations and encourage candidates. He was accompanied by the Mayor of Accra, Michael Allotey, and the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, as part of efforts to ensure a smooth and incident-free exercise. During the tour, the delegation interacted with candidates, invigilators and school authorities, while also overseeing the distribution of examination materials. The Ga Mantse urged candidates to remain calm and focused, stressing the importance of integrity throughout the examination period. Officials expressed satisfaction with the general conduct at the centres visited, noting that security arrangements and supervision were largely effective. More than 620,000 candidates are sitting for this year’s BECE nationwide, which is expected to run until May 11. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) has commenced across Ghana today, Monday, May 4, with over 620,000 candidates sitting the nationwide assessment under intensified measures to prevent malpractice. The examination, administered by the West African Examinations Council, will run until May 11. In total, 620,141 candidates from 20,395 schools are expected to take part. WAEC has issued a firm directive urging candidates to strictly adhere to examination guidelines. The council warned that any individual caught engaging in malpractice—including the possession of unauthorized items like mobile phones—will face severe penalties. Candidates have also been cautioned to conduct themselves appropriately throughout the examination period, as any acts of misconduct toward supervisors or invigilators, such as disruptions or assaults, could result in serious disciplinary action. Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Ernest Kofi Davis has disclosed that officials previously implicated in examination malpractice have been barred from participating in this year’s exercise. He explained that all supervisors and invigilators currently under investigation for their alleged roles in past irregularities have been excluded, as part of efforts to uphold the integrity of the examination process. These measures highlight the commitment of authorities to protect the credibility of the BECE, a critical examination that determines students’ placement into senior high schools nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A dawn security operation by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NaIMOS) has led to the arrest of 49 suspected illegal miners following a violent ambush on its personnel earlier this week in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region. The coordinated swoop, carried out in the early hours of Thursday at Adiewoso within the concession of Ghana Rubber Estates Limited (GREL), also resulted in the recovery of a pump-action firearm and the seizure of over GH₵226,000 believed to be proceeds from illegal mining activities. According to NaIMOS, the operation was triggered by an attack on its operatives on Tuesday, April 28, when a group of armed illegal miners allegedly opened fire on a taskforce team stationed in Nzema East. The assailants reportedly targeted a NaIMOS patrol vehicle, firing multiple rounds in what authorities have described as a “reckless and brazen ambush.” No casualties were recorded, as the personnel tactically withdrew from the scene. However, the incident prompted an immediate intelligence-led response to identify and apprehend those responsible. Acting on credible intelligence, NaIMOS deployed a joint team for a cordon-and-search operation between 3:30 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. on Thursday, sweeping through Adiewoso and nearby communities. A total of 114 individuals were initially picked up and transported to the Adiewoso Community Centre for screening. After verification, 49 were identified as suspected illegal miners and handed over to the Agona Divisional Police Command for further investigations. Authorities clarified that eight individuals were confirmed as legitimate GREL workers, while 12 were senior high school students. Others screened were found to be artisans and residents with no links to illegal mining and were subsequently released. Among those arrested are three foreign nationals — Abdul Karim from Niger, and Nash Ishaku and Eliyasu Sie from Burkina Faso — who are believed to be involved in the illicit operations. The operation also uncovered significant items, including GH₵140,000 found in a Toyota Raize belonging to one Daniel Avoka, and GH₵86,710 discovered in a Toyota Hilux linked to suspect Ebenezer Cobbinah, who is currently assisting police investigations. Two containers of substances suspected to be gold, quantities of suspected Indian hemp, and cartons of cigarettes were also retrieved. NaIMOS officials say the operation underscores their resolve to clamp down on illegal mining, particularly in areas where such activities threaten legitimate businesses and the environment. “The Secretariat remains committed to protecting Ghana’s natural resources. Acts of intimidation or armed resistance will not deter us from enforcing the law,” a statement said. The suspects are expected to face prosecution as investigations continue. The Adiewoso raid marks one of the latest intensified efforts by authorities to curb illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, which continues to pose serious environmental and security challenges across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Zakari Mumuni, First Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, has revealed that Ghana’s inflation process in 2025 reflected a combination of both domestic and external influences, highlighting the complexity of price developments within the economy. Speaking at the official release of the 2025 Annual Inflation Report, Dr. Mumuni explained that key drivers of inflation during the year included exchange rate fluctuations, rising food prices, and movements in global commodity markets. According to him, these factors interacted in ways that significantly shaped overall inflation trends across the country. He further indicated that policy measures implemented by the central bank—particularly monetary tightening—played a decisive role in moderating inflationary pressures. While acknowledging that such measures often come with short-term economic costs, he stressed that they were necessary to anchor inflation expectations and restore stability within the macroeconomic environment. Dr. Mumuni emphasised that inflation should not be viewed merely as a headline figure, but rather as a multidimensional process that requires detailed analysis of its composition and underlying drivers. He noted that distinguishing between temporary shocks and persistent pressures is crucial for effective monetary policy formulation. The First Deputy Governor also underscored the importance of high-quality data and deeper analytical frameworks, pointing out that the Annual Inflation Report provides a more comprehensive assessment of inflation dynamics over time. He added that such reports strengthen transparency, enhance policy credibility, and support informed decision-making. He reaffirmed the central bank’s commitment to maintaining price stability, noting that sustained low inflation depends not only on sound policy decisions but also on strong institutional collaboration and reliable statistical data. Dr. Mumuni concluded by commending the Ghana Statistical Service for producing the report, describing it as a vital tool that will continue to shape macroeconomic analysis and policy direction in Ghana. On his part, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Ghana Statistical Service, Dr. Yaw Baah underscored the critical role of credible data in driving sound economic decisions and strengthening governance in the country. Dr. Baah described the publication as a significant milestone, marking a shift not only in the type of data produced but also in how the institution serves national development. According to him, “strong economies are built on strong decisions, and strong decisions depend on credible data,” stressing that the Statistical Service plays a vital role in ensuring policies are grounded in facts rather than assumptions. He explained that the newly compiled annual report moves Ghana’s statistical system from fragmented datasets to a more structured, transparent, and comprehensive source of information. This, he noted, will enhance policymaking, deepen public debate, and improve accountability. Dr. Baah highlighted three key pillars underpinning the report: depth, transparency, and accountability. He said the Service is no longer limited to tracking monthly price changes but is now providing broader annual analysis to better explain economic trends. He further emphasised that making data more accessible and understandable will empower stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses, researchers, and the general public, to make informed decisions. “This report is a strong beginning, but its true value will depend on how it is used,” he stated, urging policymakers to rely on it for decision-making, businesses to guide planning, researchers to deepen analysis, and citizens to better understand the economy. Dr. Baah also reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to maintaining the independence, credibility, and relevance of the Statistical Service, while strengthening its analytical capacity and public value. He commended statisticians, analysts, and supporting staff for their dedication, noting that their work—from data collection to verification and analysis—forms the backbone of evidence-based policymaking. “Without data, there is no evidence,” he said, while also acknowledging the contributions of institutions, development partners, businesses, and households that provide essential data. Reflecting on progress within the past year, Dr. Baah expressed pride in improvements in Ghana’s statistical system, particularly in data availability and quality, which he said have significantly advanced compared to previous years. Taking his turn, Deputy Finance Minister, Thomas Nyarko Ampem noted the critical importance of data-driven policymaking, stating that economic stability and progress cannot be assumed but must be deliberately achieved through informed decisions. Mr. Ampem noted that recent economic trends have demonstrated the profound impact of policy choices on market outcomes and livelihoods, stressing that government remains committed to working collaboratively with international partners, including Malaysian authorities, to ensure sound economic management. He emphasized that the introduction of the annual inflation report marks a significant step toward institutionalizing transparency and clarity in Ghana’s economic governance framework. “Today is not just about presenting figures,” he stated. “We are embedding a tool for economic clarity. One key lesson from recent years is that we cannot effectively manage what we do not fully understand.” Mr. Ampem explained that inflation goes beyond statistical measurements, describing it as a direct reflection of everyday realities such as the cost of food, transportation, and overall household stability. “Inflation is not abstract. It is the price of food on the table, the cost of getting to work, and ultimately the difference between stability and uncertainty for households and businesses,” he said. He further stressed that tackling inflation requires a coordinated national effort, calling for discipline and consistency across both fiscal and monetary policy institutions. According to him, the report highlights important regional disparities in inflation trends, making a strong case for targeted policy interventions. “Inflation is not uniform across the country. What drives price increases in one region may differ significantly from another. Only reliable data can guide us in implementing the right policies for each area,” he noted. Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu emphasized that inflation goes beyond statistics, noting that it directly affects household welfare, business confidence, and policy effectiveness. “Inflation is not just a number. It determines whether incomes can sustain families, whether businesses can plan, and whether policies are working to improve lives,” he stated. The 2025 report marks a departure from the traditional monthly inflation releases, offering a more comprehensive analysis of price trends over a full year. According to Dr. Iddrisu, the report provides deeper insights into the drivers of inflation and its real impact on Ghanaians. The report highlights a significant decline in inflation throughout 2025, with the rate dropping from 23.5 percent in January to 5.4 percent in December—representing twelve consecutive months of decline. The annual average inflation rate also fell to 14.6 percent, compared to 22.9 percent recorded in 2024. Despite the improvement, Dr. Iddrisu cautioned that lower inflation does not equate to lower prices. “Prices are still high. They are simply increasing at a slower pace,” he explained, noting that many households continue to grapple with the cost of living. The report identifies food as the single largest contributor to inflation, accounting for more than 50 percent of total price increases in 2025. It also reveals that approximately three-quarters of inflation was driven by domestic factors, with goods—particularly essentials such as food, fuel, and housing—making up nearly 80 percent of inflationary pressures. “This tells us that inflation in Ghana is largely home-grown and heavily tied to everyday essentials,” Dr. Iddrisu said. A key finding of the report is the significant variation in inflation across regions. While some areas recorded relatively moderate increases, others experienced much higher inflation rates. For instance, Upper West Region recorded an average inflation rate of about 24.9 percent, compared to 10.9 percent in Bono East. Dr. Iddrisu stressed that such disparities require tailored policy responses, noting that “a one-size-fits-all approach will not work.” Dr. Iddrisu also credited the progress to coordinated fiscal and monetary policies but warned that sustaining low inflation would require continued discipline. To maintain stability, the GSS outlined several priority actions, including strengthening food systems, boosting domestic production, addressing regional disparities, and enhancing data systems for timely decision-making. “Reducing inflation is difficult, but sustaining it at low levels is even more challenging,” Dr. Iddrisu noted. The Government Statistician underscored the importance of data in shaping national development, calling on policymakers, businesses, and researchers to actively use the report’s findings. “Data is not just for reporting—it is for decision-making. If we act on the evidence, we can build a more resilient economy,” he concluded. The Annual Inflation Report is expected to serve as a critical tool for economic planning, aligning with Ghana’s broader development agenda and key Sustainable Development Goals, including poverty reduction, food security, and inclusive economic growth. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has attributed its exceptional financial performance in 2025 to disciplined spending, strategic allocation of resources, and a deliberate focus on operational efficiency across all departments. This comes on the back of the Board’s audited financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2025, which show a significant surge in non-tax revenue from GH₵307.7 million in 2024 to GH₵970.8 million in 2025—more than tripling within its first full year of operation. Officials of GoldBod explained that the remarkable growth was not incidental but the result of conscious internal reforms aimed at tightening financial controls and eliminating waste across its operations. They noted that the institution adopted a lean but effective spending model, ensuring that every allocation directly supported its expanded mandate. In a notable development, total expenditure declined from GH₵129.7 million in 2024 to GH₵109.4 million in 2025, even as the organisation underwent significant structural expansion. This included an increase in staff strength from 114 under the defunct Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) to 450 employees in 2025. Despite the near 300 percent growth in workforce, GoldBod maintained cost discipline by streamlining administrative processes, leveraging technology, and prioritising high-impact operational areas such as gold aggregation, licensing, assay services, inspections, anti-smuggling enforcement, and export coordination. According to the Board, its strategy centred on directing resources to revenue-generating and regulatory strengthening activities, while minimising non-essential expenditure. This approach ensured that operational expansion did not translate into inefficiency or bloated costs. The Board further emphasised that its GH₵909.8 million operational surplus was generated purely from core business activities, underscoring the effectiveness of its internal systems. It clarified that the GH₵4.55 billion government subvention received during the year was ring-fenced as revolving capital for gold purchases and did not contribute to the reported surplus. Analysts say the performance reflects a strong foundation for the newly established institution, pointing to a governance model that prioritises accountability, efficiency, and value for money. GoldBod maintains that its results demonstrate how sound financial management, coupled with clear operational focus, can deliver tangible outcomes even within a short period. The Board believes that sustaining these principles will be key to strengthening oversight, boosting revenue mobilisation, and enhancing transparency within Ghana’s gold sector. The 2025 results are already being seen as an early validation of GoldBod’s reform agenda, positioning the institution as a critical player in formalising and optimising the country’s gold value chain while delivering measurable economic benefits. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) has intensified calls for district, municipal, and metropolitan assemblies, traditional authorities, and regional stakeholders to align local development priorities with Ghana’s broader Resetting Ghana Agenda, as part of efforts to craft a unified and inclusive national development framework. This directive follows extensive stakeholder consultations conducted across all 16 regions of the country, which brought together local government officials, opinion leaders, and development actors to identify pressing community needs and systemic gaps in planning and implementation. According to the Commission, the engagements revealed persistent infrastructure deficits, weak agricultural value chains, rising youth unemployment, and growing concerns over disparities in resource allocation. These challenges, stakeholders indicated, have contributed to a sense of marginalisation among some communities, reinforcing the need for a more coordinated and equitable development approach. The NDPC emphasised that aligning local priorities with national policy objectives is critical to eliminating duplication, addressing policy inconsistencies, and ensuring that development interventions are both targeted and impactful. It noted that the proposed Consolidated National Development Plan will serve as a binding framework to guide long-term national growth, anchored on broad-based consensus. The Commission further explained that district-level development plans will play a central role in shaping the national blueprint, with approval contingent on their ability to reflect identified gaps and align with the country’s strategic direction. To this end, it is reviewing its operational guidelines to make planning processes at the regional and district levels more practical, data-driven, and results-oriented. In addition, the NDPC underscored the importance of stronger collaboration between local assemblies and traditional authorities, noting that such partnerships are essential for effective implementation and community ownership of development initiatives. Beyond structural reforms, the Commission highlighted the need for a shift in governance attitudes, advocating closer collaboration with civic education institutions to promote discipline, accountability, and national values among citizens. It also called on the media to play a more proactive role in the development process by amplifying key messages, exposing inefficiencies, and showcasing best practices across the country. The NDPC maintained that aligning grassroots development priorities with the Resetting Ghana Agenda will not only enhance coordination and efficiency but also ensure that Ghana’s development trajectory reflects both national aspirations and the diverse needs of its regions, ultimately delivering inclusive and sustainable growth for all. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Most fraud does not happen because systems fail. It happens because someone trusted the wrong request. In today’s digital economy, accountants are no longer just custodians of numbers, they are custodians of trust. With direct access to financial systems, sensitive client data, and payment approvals, they sit at the centre of organisational risk. This reality makes them prime targets for cybercriminals, fraudsters, and even insider threats. As a result, security has moved beyond being merely part of IT; it is now a responsibility for all professionals. Effective Effective security starts with awareness. Accountants who identify risks and act carefully can prevent fraud. Dormant Accounts Access Bank As attacks grow more advanced, vigilance is crucial. Information security relies on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, which protect financial data from unauthorised access, maintain its accuracy, and ensure it is accessible when required. Threats are not always immediately obvious. Modern fraud is often subtle, meticulously orchestrated, and may be disguised within routine business communications. Communications, such as urgent emails purportedly from senior executives, requests from vendors to alter banking information, or links that seem legitimate, can serve as gateways to substantial financial loss. These attacks exploit behavioural factors, including urgency, trust, and lack of attention; rather than technical vulnerabilities. Discipline The importance of discipline in daily operations cannot be overstated. Strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and vigilant email management have become essential components of professional conduct. Additionally, internal controls, including dual authorisation, segregation of duties, and routine account reconciliation, establish systematic protections that mitigate risks related to error and fraud. In addition to implementing effective systems and controls, accountants are charged with the responsible management of data. Restricting access to confidential information, avoiding the use of unsecured networks, and ensuring appropriate storage and disposal of documents are critical measures for safeguarding both organisational and client interests. Furthermore, adopting practices such as maintaining an orderly workspace and securing physical records can substantially mitigate potential risks. Incidents Incidents are bound to happen from time to time, so it's essential to respond quickly and follow a clear plan. Reporting problems right away, protecting any evidence, and sticking to set procedures help reduce harm. Trying to fix things alone can sometimes make matters worse, which is why well-defined incident response steps are so important. Security transcends systems, policies, and technology; it is fundamentally an issue of mindset. It requires the consistent application of professional scepticism, adherence to ethical standards, and an understanding that every action, regardless of its routine nature, may yield significant consequences. Given that accountants are frequently considered high-value targets, their responsibilities are well-defined: verify all actions prior to execution, safeguard sensitive information, and incorporate security as a fundamental element of professional practice. In the current landscape, it is essential for accountants not only to demonstrate competence but also to exercise vigilance in their professional duties. Credit: COP Maame Tiwaah Addo-Danquah, Technical Advisor, Minister for Interior NB: Views expressed in this article are solely opinion of the author and thus, Thinknewsonline.com cannot be held liable for contempt or defamation

The Forestry Commission (FC) has laid to rest a gallant hero, Mr. Raphael Ganyo, a Resource Guard with the Wildlife Division of the Commission. His final funeral rites were held at Adorzekope near Mafi-Kumasi in the Volta Region, drawing family, colleagues, and dignitaries to honour his life and service. Mr. Ganyo tragically lost his life after being fatally shot by a poacher while on patrol at the Zitoe Camp within the Kalakpa Resource Reserve. His untimely death underscores the significant risks Forestry Commission personnel face daily in safeguarding Ghana’s natural heritage. In recognition of his bravery and sacrifice, the Commission posthumously promoted him to the rank of Chief Resource Guard and renamed the Zitoe Camp as Raphael Ganyo Camp in his honour. Additionally, the Commission extended support to the bereaved family by offering employment opportunities to two relatives. Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Joseph Boakye Esq., Executive Director of the Wildlife Division, announced these interventions and presented a donation of Fifty Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS 50,000) to the family as a gesture of solidarity and support. CEO, Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh C. A. Brown emphasized the urgent need for improved resourcing, training, and protective equipment for frontline staff, including bulletproof vests. He revealed that, beyond Mr. Ganyo’s death, the Forest Services Division (FSD) has also suffered the loss of two Resource Guards, with approximately 33 personnel sustaining injuries in the line of duty. Dr. Brown further appealed to the public to support the Commission’s mandate, noting that “the work we do is inherently risky, and we need collective support to succeed.” He highlighted persistent operational challenges, including inadequate personnel and limited logistics such as vehicles and motorbikes. He also disclosed that the Commission is currently engaged in legal consultations to review Act 571, with the aim of securing paramilitary status that would provide the legal backing for personnel to carry appropriate arms for their protection. Dignitaries present at the ceremony included Mr. Joseph Osiakwan, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources; Mr. Isaac Essien Esq., Chairman of the FC Board; Dr. Abukari Attah Esq., FC Board Member; Dr. Richard Gyimah, Executive Director of TIDD; Dr. Gordon Sarfo Adu, Executive Director of FSD; as well as managers and staff of the Forestry Commission. Credit: Forestry Commission

The Forestry Commission has paid its final respects to Raphael Ganyo, a young officer described as a gallant soldier who lost his life while protecting the nation’s natural resources. The Commission’s Board Chairman, Isaac Essien, led management and staff to mourn with the bereaved family during the final funeral rites of the late officer. Raphael Ganyo, a 28-year-old Resource Guard with the Wildlife Division, was shot and killed by a poacher at the Kalakpa Resource Reserve on January 6, 2026. He had served the Commission since November 2021 with dedication in the Law Enforcement Unit. His death highlights the growing dangers faced by forestry personnel who continue to battle illegal miners, chainsaw operators and poachers, often under difficult conditions and with limited logistics. Speaking at the funeral, the Chief Executive of the Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown, renewed calls for the institution to be granted paramilitary status to strengthen forest protection efforts and improve the safety of officers in the field. According to him, the Commission is pursuing legal processes to amend Act 571 so that officers can be legally empowered to carry firearms for self-defense during operations. He noted that many field staff currently face heavily armed criminals with inadequate protection. In honour of his service, the Commission posthumously promoted Raphael Ganyo to the rank of Chief Resource Guard, the highest level within the resource guard structure. It also announced that the Zitoe Camp, where he served, will be renamed the Raphael Ganyo Camp. As part of support for the grieving family, the Commission pledged to offer employment to two relatives in the Wildlife Division and donated GH¢50,000, in addition to other assistance provided since the tragic incident. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Chief Executive Officer of Minerals Commission, Isaac Tandoh, has stated that the revocation of the mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited was undertaken in accordance with the provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Monday, Mr. Tandoh explained that the decision taken by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, followed extensive investigations and recommendations from the Commission. According to him, the revoked leases cover the Akango, Salman and Nkroful concessions, where investigations uncovered what he described as repeated and serious breaches of Ghana’s mining laws. He stressed that the action was lawful, evidence-based and intended to protect the national interest. Mr. Tandoh disclosed that inspections by the Commission’s Inspectorate Division revealed several violations, including unauthorized transfer of mineral rights to third parties without ministerial approval, mining beyond approved concession boundaries, and operating without the required permits and approved plans. He further alleged that foreign nationals, particularly some Chinese operators, were engaged in illegal mining activities on the concessions, while heavy-duty equipment such as excavators and bulldozers were found operating at unauthorized sites. The CEO warned that the illegal activities had caused environmental destruction, including damage to land and threats to nearby water bodies, while also denying the state legitimate mining revenue. He noted that although the law often allows companies time to rectify breaches, the gravity and deliberate nature of the offences justified immediate revocation under Act 703. Mr. Tandoh added that the action does not rule out possible criminal prosecution of the company and its directors under the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995). He reiterated that the Minerals Commission remains committed to enforcing compliance across the sector and warned that companies that abuse mineral rights or use leases to support illegal mining will face severe sanctions, including license cancellation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith