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The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has emerged victorious in the maiden edition of the Forestry Commission Debate Competition, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s growing reputation for academic excellence and public speaking. The competition, held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the Forestry Commission Auditorium in Accra, formed part of activities to commemorate the International Day of Forests 2026. It was organised by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in collaboration with the Forestry Commission under the global theme, “Forests and Economies.” UPSA faced off against the University of Ghana in a keenly contested debate on the motion: “The economic value of forests should be measured solely in terms of timber and non-timber forest products.” Arguing against the motion, the UPSA team delivered a compelling case that the value of forests extends beyond extractive resources to include environmental, social and economic benefits. The winning team comprised Mr. Richard Gamli Graham, a Level 400 Bachelor of Laws student and President of the UPSA Debate Club; Mr. Kelvin Kwami Ofosu, a Level 400 Information Technology student; and Miss Yomle Sika Padi-Narh, a Level 200 Bachelor of Laws student. Their performance earned them a score of 81 percent, narrowly defeating the University of Ghana Debate Club, which scored 78 percent. The judges unanimously endorsed UPSA as winners of the competition. For their achievement, the team received a prize package including GH¢20,000, a trophy, a plaque, a Samsung tablet, certificates and branded souvenirs from the Forestry Commission. The victory is particularly notable as it crowns UPSA as the inaugural champions of the debate competition, setting the pace for future editions. Following the win, the team presented the trophy to the Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor. He commended the students for their outstanding performance and urged them to build on their success, describing them as worthy ambassadors of the university. The debate also underscored the broader significance of the International Day of Forests, observed globally on March 21 following its proclamation by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of forests and promoting sustainable management practices. This year’s theme, “Forests and Economies,” highlights the critical role forests play in supporting livelihoods, generating employment, facilitating trade and sustaining food systems. Globally, forests contribute trillions of dollars to economies and support billions of people. In Ghana, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission continue to leverage the annual commemoration to intensify public education on forest conservation and promote tree planting initiatives aimed at safeguarding the country’s natural resources. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has launched a sharp critique of the administration of President John Dramani Mahama, arguing that the government has failed to build on what it describes as a recovering economy inherited in January 2025. At a press briefing on March 24, 2026, the NPP’s Director of Communications said the Mahama-led administration has instead reversed key gains made prior to the transition, leading to worsening living conditions for many Ghanaians. Framing the briefing around what he called a “critical national question,” the NPP asked what the current government inherited and how it has managed the economy since assuming office. According to the party, macroeconomic indicators at the end of 2024 pointed to recovery rather than collapse, citing a decline in inflation from over 54 percent in December 2022 to the mid-20 percent range, GDP growth exceeding 3 percent, and relative stability of the Ghana cedi. The NPP argued that these trends reflected fiscal discipline, improved reserves and policy interventions under the previous administration. However, the party contends that these gains have not translated into improved living standards under the current government. It pointed to rising fuel prices, increasing cost of living, and persistent youth unemployment as evidence of what it described as a disconnect between macroeconomic data and everyday realities. On the cocoa sector, the NPP accused the government of mismanaging a window of opportunity presented by high global prices in 2025. It alleged that the Ghana Cocoa Board failed to secure favourable forward sales and subsequently imposed a price reduction that has negatively impacted farmers’ incomes. The party said the move has had serious implications for rural livelihoods and export revenues, while also criticising government’s response to calls by stakeholders, including religious leaders, to reverse the decision. Youth employment was another major concern raised at the briefing. The NPP argued that the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy has yet to yield tangible results, despite campaign promises of large-scale job creation. It further questioned claims by President Mahama that over one million jobs were created in 2025, citing data it said suggests significantly lower figures. The party also linked recent increases in fuel prices to what it described as weak economic management, noting that while global geopolitical tensions may play a role, governments are expected to implement measures to cushion citizens from such shocks. On environmental governance, the NPP claimed illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, has worsened, with increased reports of water pollution and weak enforcement. I It said this falls short of expectations set by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) while in opposition. The briefing also highlighted tensions between government and organised labour, pointing to a series of industrial actions by various public sector unions as a sign of strained relations and declining confidence. Additionally, the NPP raised concerns about governance and ethics, citing allegations of conflicts of interest involving individuals close to the presidency. It argued that such perceptions, whether proven or not, risk undermining public trust and accountability. Despite the criticisms, the party commended the Minority in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, for what it described as efforts to advocate for cocoa farmers and hold the government accountable. The NPP concluded that while Ghana entered 2025 on a path of economic recovery, the current administration has failed to sustain the momentum, urging Ghanaians to closely assess the government’s performance and its impact on their daily lives. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to ending tuberculosis (TB) through sustained investments, stronger partnerships and expanded access to healthcare services, as the nation marked World TB Day 2026 under the global theme: “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by Countries, Powered by People.” Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Minister of Health, Deputy Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu Danquah described tuberculosis as “a major public health concern that continues to affect many Ghanaians,” stressing that gaps in case detection remain a significant challenge in the national response. She underscored the urgent need to identify undiagnosed cases and ensure prompt treatment to curb transmission, noting that government has stepped up efforts to strengthen diagnostic capacity across the country. According to her, the procurement of 15 GeneXpert machines and 10 AI-enabled digital X-ray systems, alongside other accessories valued at nearly GHS 30 million, forms part of measures to enhance early detection and treatment. Dr. Ayensu Danquah further highlighted the Free Primary Healthcare Programme as a game-changer that will expand access to TB services at the community level, improve early diagnosis and ultimately boost treatment outcomes. She also emphasized the critical role of community engagement and praised partnerships such as the Netherlands Government–Oreo collaboration, which has supported the installation of 50 TB screening machines nationwide. In his welcome address, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, reiterated that tuberculosis is both preventable and curable, calling for sustained collective action to eliminate the disease. He commended health workers and development partners for their dedication, which has contributed to increased TB case detection in recent years. Drawing inspiration from global icons such as Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, Dr. Akoriyea stressed the importance of early diagnosis and strict adherence to treatment, expressing optimism that ongoing health sector reforms will accelerate progress toward a TB-free Ghana. Chairing the event, Vice Chair of the Stop TB Partnership UNOPS in Geneva, Barrister Chief Austin Arinze Obiefuna, described tuberculosis as one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases but acknowledged Ghana’s steady progress over the past two decades. He commended the government and its partners for their strong commitment, while calling for intensified domestic resource mobilisation, stronger political leadership, deeper community involvement and increased investment in innovation to fast-track elimination efforts. Providing a technical overview, Programme Manager of the National TB Control Programme, Dr. Bernard Ziem, noted that although treatment success rates remain high, case detection continues to fall below expected targets. He cautioned that while ending TB is achievable, progress remains slow and requires more aggressive strategies, particularly in active case finding and expanding diagnostic services. Development partners, including the World Health Organization, The Aurum Institute, Stop TB Partnership and TB Voice Network, reaffirmed their continued support, highlighting Ghana’s progress, including a 21 percent reduction in TB incidence, while urging sustained investment and coordinated action to further reduce the burden of the disease. As part of the commemoration, the Deputy Minister officially handed over the newly procured diagnostic equipment to the National TB Control Programme, marking a significant step in Ghana’s renewed push to eliminate tuberculosis. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

Col. Dominic Buah, Director of Operations at the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), has issued a strong and uncompromising warning to illegal miners, declaring that the state will intensify its crackdown on galamsey activities across the country. Speaking to the media on Wednesday in Accra, Col. Buah praised the Blue Water Guards for their “exceptionally well” performance in safeguarding Ghana’s water bodies, revealing that the task force has been actively seizing and destroying equipment used in illegal mining operations, particularly along riverine areas. He explained that the Guards have demonstrated increasing capacity in enforcement, often acting decisively to halt illegal activities, confiscate machinery, and prevent further environmental degradation. According to him, their efforts are already yielding results, especially in curbing operations that threaten major water sources. Col. Buah disclosed that NAIMOS is currently working to further empower the Blue Water Guards through continuous training, improved coordination, and enhanced intelligence systems. He stressed the importance of information-sharing from local communities, noting that such collaboration is critical in tracking and dismantling illegal mining networks. Touching on the controversial destruction of “chamfas”—machines commonly used in illegal mining—he clarified that while such equipment may have alternative industrial uses, any found in proximity to water bodies or directly linked to galamsey activities will be destroyed. He added that the Environmental Protection Agency Ghana (EPA) has secured the necessary legal backing to also target and demolish fabrication centres producing such machinery. He further indicated that NAIMOS operations are heavily concentrated on water bodies and river systems, where illegal mining poses the greatest environmental risk. In such zones, he noted, the presence of equipment or fabrication activities is treated as clear intent to engage in galamsey, warranting swift enforcement action. Col. Buah emphasized that the ongoing operations remain a “work in progress,” but assured the public that authorities will continue to act decisively, including removing harmful chemicals, dismantling illegal setups, and addressing the involvement of foreign nationals in illicit mining activities. Delivering a stern caution, he warned that illegal miners—regardless of their role as financiers, operators, or facilitators—will be treated as enemies of the state if they persist. He urged families and communities to advise their relatives involved in galamsey to desist and instead embrace responsible and regulated mining practices. “Rest assured,” he stressed, “the waterways will be protected, and NAIMOS will deal ruthlessly with galamseyers.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Lincoln University  has withdrawn its decision to confer an honorary doctorate on Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama , just hours before his scheduled visit on Thursday, March 26, 2026. Ghana’s Embassy in the United States expressed deep disappointment over the last-minute decision, noting that it followed concerns raised by a group within the university regarding the president’s perceived stance on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely referred to as the anti-gay bill currently before Parliament. According to the embassy, the concerns were not raised during earlier vetting and due diligence processes, despite what it described as extensive engagement between both parties. Officials had already completed a full walkthrough and finalised all logistical arrangements ahead of the planned visit. “It is both surprising and regrettable that such concerns have surfaced at this late stage, particularly with the president already in the United States,” the embassy said in a statement. The mission emphasised that President Mahama accepted the honour in good faith, following an official invitation from the university, which shares historic ties with Ghana, including its association with Kwame Nkrumah . While acknowledging the university’s right to uphold its values and consult stakeholders, the embassy stressed that the issues raised relate to an ongoing legislative process in Ghana and do not represent the position of any single individual. Reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement, the embassy expressed hope that the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University would guide a fair and balanced resolution. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has recorded significant operational and institutional gains within one year under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI), Samuel Basintale Amadu, following his appointment in March 2025. According to the Deputy Commissioner of Immigration in charge of the Public Affairs Department, Maud Anima Quainoo, the Service’s transformation agenda has focused on strengthening border security, enhancing operational efficiency, and modernising systems to improve service delivery. She noted that the CGI’s mandate, following his vetting by the Public Services Commission, has been centred on safeguarding Ghana’s territorial integrity, promoting intelligence-led operations, deepening inter-agency collaboration, and dismantling transnational criminal networks, particularly those involved in smuggling and human trafficking. Maud Anima Quainoo disclosed that the GIS generated over GH¢546 million in revenue within the past year, driven largely by reforms in visa and permit processing systems. A total of 186,959 permits and visas were issued, representing a 32.5 percent increase compared to the previous year. She attributed the growth to ongoing investments in digital infrastructure and automation, which have reduced processing times and improved transparency. Additionally, the Service successfully managed over 2.8 million passenger movements across Ghana’s entry points without major incidents, contributing to the success of national initiatives such as the “December in Ghana” tourism campaign. On enforcement, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted major successes in combating smuggling and illegal activities through coordinated operations involving various GIS departments. She revealed that the Service intercepted significant quantities of contraband, including 1,401 bags and jerrycans of smuggled cocoa beans, 1,398 packs of Tramadol, 88 parcels of suspected Indian hemp, 725 rounds of ammunition, and other illicit goods. In addition, 909 individuals were intercepted at various entry points, while a nationwide enforcement exercise involving 7,204 facility inspections led to the arrest of 3,533 persons for immigration-related offences. Maud Anima Quainoo further stated that the GIS has enhanced its intelligence and legal operations, processing 666 intelligence requests in collaboration with partner agencies — a 3.9 percent increase from the previous year. The Service prosecuted 29 cases and secured 28 convictions, including offences related to illegal entry, fraud schemes such as QNET operations, and cybercrime. Meanwhile, the Document Fraud Expertise Centre examined 932 suspected cases, with 35.2 percent confirmed as fraudulent. The Deputy Commissioner emphasised the Service’s commitment to human capital development, noting that over 970 officers received specialised training both locally and internationally in areas such as counter-terrorism, crisis management, and border security. She added that the GIS, in collaboration with the Youth Employment Agency and the National Ambulance Service, trained Community-based Medical First Responders (CMFRs) in three cohorts during 2025. Further initiatives included a Trainer of Trainers programme in partnership with the European Union Security and Defence Initiative, as well as specialised unarmed combat (Krav Maga) training to enhance officer safety following recent attacks on personnel. Infrastructure Development and International Cooperation Maud Anima Quainoo indicated that the Service has embarked on infrastructure expansion projects in key locations, including Tema, Kumasi, Tamale, Sunyani, Cape Coast, Sekondi-Takoradi, and Damango, aimed at improving operational efficiency and decentralisation. On the international front, she said the GIS has strengthened partnerships with organisations such as the International Organization for Migration, and engaged with delegations from the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre, as well as immigration authorities from Rwanda, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. Looking ahead, the Deputy Commissioner disclosed that the Service is advancing reforms under “Project SECOBOR” (Secure Our Borders), a public-private partnership initiative designed to address gaps in logistics, surveillance, and infrastructure. Additional measures under consideration include the establishment of a private mutual health insurance scheme and a staff endowment fund to enhance welfare and institutional sustainability. She stressed that the progress made over the past year has repositioned the Ghana Immigration Service as a more responsive, technology-driven, and intelligence-led institution. “While challenges remain within the evolving global security landscape, the gains achieved under CGI Samuel Basintale Amadu provide a solid foundation for the future,” Maud Anima Quainoo stated. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Northern Regional Police Command has launched an investigation into an alleged assault involving renowned Ghanaian visual artist, Ibrahim Mahama, reportedly carried out by some police officers in Tamale. According to a statement issued by the Regional Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Luckman Niendow Alhassan, the Command has taken serious notice of the incident and has commenced a full-scale probe to establish the facts surrounding the matter. The Police assured the public that updates on the progress of the investigation will be communicated in due course, urging calm and cooperation as inquiries continue. Meanwhile, the Command has refuted claims circulating in sections of the media that the Special Operations Team, popularly known as the “Black Maria,” was involved in the alleged assault. It clarified that the unit had already been withdrawn from the Northern Region by the Inspector-General of Police on March 5, 2026, and could therefore not have played any role in the incident. The Police reiterated their commitment to professionalism and accountability, stressing that any officer found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has been adjudged the State-Owned Enterprise of the Year at the prestigious Public Enterprises League Table (PELT) Awards, emerging as the overall top performer among state institutions. The Board’s outstanding performance also earned it two additional honours—Most Profitable State-Owned Enterprise and Overall Best Specified Entity—cementing its position as one of Ghana’s leading public sector organisations. The PELT Awards, organised annually by the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), recognise excellence, efficiency and strong corporate governance among state-owned enterprises and specified entities across the country. Receiving the awards on behalf of GoldBod, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Richard Nunekpeku, Esq., expressed gratitude to SIGA for the recognition, describing it as a reflection of the Board’s consistent performance and dedication. “We are excited to receive this award and the third award of the night. On behalf of the Board, management and staff of the Ghana Gold Board, we wish to thank SIGA for recognising our performance over the years,” he stated. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining high standards and achieving even greater results, stressing that the recognition would serve as motivation to exceed set targets. “In as much as we have won this year’s award, we are not backing down; we remain committed to growing and ensuring that we achieve all the targets outlined in our performance contract with SIGA,” he added. Mr. Nunekpeku further assured that GoldBod will continue to build on its strong performance, focusing on delivering value and sustaining excellence. The recognition underscores GoldBod’s increasing influence in Ghana’s gold sector, particularly in promoting transparency, enhancing value retention, and ensuring sustainable resource management. The PELT Awards continue to serve as an important benchmark for evaluating the performance of public institutions, while encouraging accountability, operational efficiency and sound governance practices across the sector. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, has underscored the importance of strictly adhering to approved development plans, describing it as fundamental to accountability and sound public financial management. Speaking at a strategic regional consultative engagement at the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, Dr. Smock stressed that development plans serve as binding frameworks guiding government spending and policy implementation across Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). “Strict adherence to approved development plans is essential,” she stated, explaining that both internal and external auditors assess public expenditure against these frameworks, making compliance critical to transparency and efficiency. She urged assemblies across the country to prioritise alignment with certified plans, warning that deviations could undermine development outcomes and fiscal discipline. Adding his voice, the Chairman of the NDPC, Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, commended the Greater Accra Region for becoming the first to achieve full certification of Medium-Term Development Plans for all its MMDAs for the 2026–2029 period. However, he cautioned that certification alone is not enough. “Certification is not the end of the process; it is the beginning of disciplined implementation,” Dr. Nii Moi Thompson stated. “The real measure of success is whether these plans improve service delivery, strengthen local economies, and enhance the living standards of our people.” He further called on assemblies to move beyond compliance and focus on measurable impact, institutional efficiency, and accountability in execution, while addressing persistent challenges such as weak institutional capacity, budget fragmentation, revenue mobilisation constraints, and poor spatial planning. The engagement highlighted Greater Accra’s milestone as a model for other regions, while reinforcing the need for disciplined implementation to translate plans into tangible development outcomes. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, has highlighted the critical role women play in Ghana’s open-space business ecosystem, describing them as the driving force behind one of the country’s most vibrant economic segments. According to findings from the Ghana Statistical Service’s Integrated Business Establishment Survey I (IBES I), women dominate the open-space economy, accounting for nearly 80 percent of the workforce and owning about 84 percent of such businesses nationwide. Dr. Iddrisu noted that open-space enterprises, which include roadside vendors, market traders, and informal food sellers, form a significant part of Ghana’s business landscape. Out of the 2.64 million businesses recorded in 2024, about 693,748 operate in open spaces, employing over 922,000 people. He emphasised that these businesses are not only widespread but essential to daily life, with nearly 68 percent engaged in retail food trade—ensuring the steady supply of food and beverages directly to households across the country. “Women are the backbone of Ghana’s open-space economy,” Dr. Iddrisu stated, underscoring their central role in sustaining livelihoods, supporting families, and driving grassroots economic activity. The Government Statistician further revealed that more than 99 percent of open-space businesses are Ghanaian-owned, making them a strong pillar of domestic enterprise and a key contributor to inclusive economic growth. He added that the inclusion of open-space and mobile businesses in official data for the first time marks a major step toward shaping policies that reflect the realities of Ghana’s largely informal economy. Story by: Hawa Abubakar

Media practitioners have been urged to prioritise accuracy, sensitivity and responsible storytelling in their coverage of disasters, as stakeholders emphasise the critical role of information in saving lives and supporting recovery efforts. This call was made during a Media Engagement Workshop held in Accra by the Ghana Red Cross Society as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration with the media and enhance public awareness of humanitarian interventions across the country. Programmes Coordinator of the Ghana Red Cross Society, Jeremiah Afako, underscored the power of information during emergencies, describing it as a key element of safety. “During a disaster, information is like safety. As journalists, we must ensure that whatever we put out is accurate and does not escalate situations, but rather helps to calm tensions and mitigate the impact on affected communities,” he stated. He explained that the initiative was designed to sensitise journalists to their dual role as both information disseminators and advocates, whose work can influence timely decisions by authorities and humanitarian actors. According to Mr. Afako, the narratives presented by the media can either deepen the distress of victims or serve as a pathway to hope and recovery. “Our storytelling must go beyond the destruction and pain. It should highlight resilience, inspire hope and support efforts to rebuild lives,” he added, while encouraging journalists to engage directly with affected communities to amplify their voices. On her part, Vice President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Rebecca Ekpe, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the nature of information shared during crises can either stabilise or worsen situations. “As journalists, we must be mindful that what we put out during disasters should be factual, measured and aimed at mitigating, not escalating, the situation,” she said. Madam Ekpe further noted that journalism in times of crisis must be both people-centred and solution-oriented, focusing on narratives that empower communities and support recovery. She urged media practitioners to move beyond official accounts and incorporate the lived experiences of affected persons into their reportage, while avoiding sensationalism and content that could incite fear or division. Highlighting the balance between press freedom and ethical responsibility, she stated that while journalists have a mandate to promote freedom of expression, it must be exercised with professionalism and a deep sense of accountability. The workshop also provided practical insights into humanitarian reporting, including first aid and CPR awareness, as well as updates on the Red Cross’ operations and future plans. The Ghana Red Cross Society continues to rely on strong partnerships with the media. It believes the media will amplify its mission of alleviating human suffering and building resilient communities across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana, through the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skill Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, has commenced a nationwide registration exercise targeting small-scale miners and artisanal mining groups. The initiative follows a successful pilot phase in the Western and Western North Regions and is aimed at formalising and regulating the small-scale mining sector, which remains a major source of livelihood for millions of Ghanaians. According to a statement issued by the National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, the programme seeks to transform informal artisanal mining groups into legally recognised cooperatives. This, she explained, will ensure compliance with existing mining regulations while promoting accountability and environmental sustainability. As part of the process, selected mining sites will undergo detailed geological assessments to determine their mineral potential and economic viability. This is expected to ensure that registered cooperatives operate on concessions capable of sustaining productive and responsible mining activities. The registration exercise will be conducted in four phases. Field teams will first capture detailed information of cooperative members, including national identification and contact details. This will be followed by technical evaluations involving geological validation, terrain stability checks, and environmental risk assessments, particularly in areas such as water usage, waste management, and ore processing. Qualified groups will then be issued a six-month Temporary Operating Permit to begin operations under strict supervision while working towards full licensing. Final approvals will be granted after a comprehensive review by rCOMSDEP and the Minerals Commission. The exercise will also involve key regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Authority and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, which will undertake field inspections necessary for environmental clearances and mining licences. Government says registered cooperatives will benefit from continuous technical support and monitoring to ensure adherence to best practices and environmental standards as outlined in the Cabinet-approved rCOMSDEP framework. Additionally, the initiative will provide the state with a verified database of miners, enabling gold purchases through the Ghana Gold Board to ensure traceability and legitimacy within the supply chain. The statement emphasised that the success of the programme will depend heavily on collaboration with Traditional Authorities and local government leaders, whose roles are considered critical in mobilising participation across mining communities. Small-scale miners and artisanal groups across the country have therefore been urged to cooperate fully with officials and present the required documentation during the registration process. Government believes the exercise presents a significant opportunity for miners to transition into the formal economy, gain legal recognition, and contribute to the sustainable development of Ghana’s mining sector. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith