Seasoned Female Broadcast Journalist, Emefa Apawu, formerly of the Multimedia Group Limited, has opened up about the real reason she stepped away from the media after an illustrious 23-year career. Speaking in a candid conversation on the Talk No Dey Cook podcast, Emefa revealed that her decision to quit journalism — at a time many believed she was at her peak — was driven by one thing above all: her children. According to her, years of working six to seven days a week, constantly chasing deadlines, and juggling demanding newsroom expectations took a toll on her family life. She admitted that it became normal for her son to be surprised whenever he saw her at home during the day, a moment that made her question the kind of mother she was becoming. As a single mother of two, Emefa said she felt the weight of wanting to be fully present for her children, especially as her daughter approaches adulthood. She disclosed that the media industry, despite its glamour, is “not rewarding,” noting that journalists often work tirelessly without receiving the luxury or comfort the public assumes they enjoy. For female journalists, she added, the struggle is even tougher, requiring twice the effort to avoid being judged or stereotyped. Emefa also revealed that health challenges she experienced during her career forced her to pause and reflect deeply on her future. During this period, she sought clarity through prayer and realized it was time for a transition. She emphasized that contrary to public perception, her new role in the corporate world — now working with the Petroleum Hub — was not a political appointment. Rather, it was an opportunity that opened at the exact moment she felt ready to move on. “I needed to be present in the life of my children, my family, and even for myself,” she said, adding that while she has left the newsroom, her ambitions are far from over. Her story sheds light on the sacrifices, pressures, and personal battles often hidden behind the polished screens of television, offering a powerful reminder of the human side of journalism. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident at the El-Wak Sports Stadium that claimed the lives of six young Ghanaians and left several others injured during the Ghana Armed Forces recruitment exercise. In a statement issued by the Minister, George Opare Addo, Esq., the Ministry extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, friends, and communities of the deceased, and wished the injured a speedy recovery. “The Ministry acknowledges the courage and aspirations of these young people, who sought to serve their nation with honour and dedication. Their passing is not only a loss to their families but also to our country,” the statement read. Mr. Opare Addo emphasized that the recruitment drive was part of broader government efforts to address youth unemployment and empower young people across the country. He assured that the Ministry would collaborate with the Ghana Armed Forces and relevant authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the tragedy. He further noted that the Ministry expects the outcome of the investigation to include clear recommendations and safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future. Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment, Mr. Opare Addo stated that “the safety, dignity, and empowerment of Ghanaian youth remain at the heart of our mandate, and we will continue to support initiatives that promote their welfare and development.” He concluded by praying for the souls of the departed to rest in peace and for comfort for their grieving families and the entire nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Member of Parliament (MP) for Pusiga, Ayamba Ayii Laadi, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of six persons during the Ghana Armed Forces recruitment exercise at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra on Wednesday. Speaking on the floor of Parliament, the MP urged the nation to take solace in the will of the Almighty Allah, describing the incident as one that occurred by divine decree. “There is nothing that happens that doesn’t happen at the right time. This is what the Almighty Allah has ordained for them. Today is their day,” she said. Hon. Ayii Laadi added that no amount of human intervention could have prevented the deaths if they were destined to happen. “Even if we had all the presidents of the world sitting there, once today was ordained for them to die, they would. Unless one does not believe in the oneness of God,” she emphasized. The MP also stressed that no officer present at the exercise wished for the loss of any life, describing the tragedy as deeply unfortunate. The Ghana Armed Forces has since suspended the ongoing recruitment exercise in the Greater Accra Region to allow for further review of safety measures. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has temporarily suspended its ongoing 2025/2026 recruitment exercise in the Greater Accra Region following the tragic stampede that claimed six lives and injured several others at the El-Wak Sports Stadium on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. In a statement issued by the Acting Director General of Public Relations, Captain (Ghana Navy) Veronica Adzo Arhin, GAF expressed deep sorrow over the incident and said the suspension was necessary to allow for a thorough review of safety measures to prevent a recurrence. “The Ghana Armed Forces deeply regrets to inform the general public that due to the fatal incident that occurred at the El-Wak Sports Stadium this morning as part of the recruitment exercise, the exercise in Greater Accra has been temporarily suspended,” the statement read. "This is to allow for additional measures to ensure a seamless and safe process.” A Board of Inquiry has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic event, which occurred when a surge of applicants broke through security barriers, resulting in a deadly stampede. While the recruitment process in the Greater Accra Region has been halted, GAF confirmed that screening in the remaining 15 regions will continue as planned. “The Armed Forces deeply regrets any inconvenience this suspension may have caused the general public, particularly affected applicants,” the statement added. "Applicants will be informed of the new date for the resumption of the process in due course.” The tragedy has cast a shadow over what was expected to be a routine nationwide recruitment exercise, drawing thousands of hopeful young Ghanaians eager to serve their country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has announced the tragic death of six prospective recruits following a stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. According to a statement signed by Captain Veronica Arhin, Ag. Director-General, Public Relations, Ghana Armed Forces; the incident occurred around 6:20 a.m., moments before the start of the 2025/2026 recruitment exercise. Preliminary investigations indicate that the stampede was triggered by an unexpected surge of applicants who breached security protocols and rushed into the stadium ahead of the scheduled screening. The incident led to the deaths of six individuals, while several others sustained injuries. The injured are currently receiving emergency medical treatment at the 37 Military Hospital. Medical teams are working tirelessly to stabilize their conditions. “The Ghana Armed Forces deeply regrets to inform the public of this tragic incident,” the statement said. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and wish a swift recovery to those injured.” GAF further noted that arrangements are being made to officially notify the families of the deceased. The institution also assured the public that investigations are ongoing and further updates will be communicated in due course. The El-Wak Sports Stadium was one of the main centers designated for the nationwide recruitment exercise, which drew thousands of applicants eager to serve in the Armed Forces. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Mr. Reginald Laryea, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 2025 World English-Language Scrabble Players’ Championship (WESPAC), led a delegation from the Scrabble Association of Ghana (SCAG) to pay a courtesy call on His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse, and the Ga Traditional Council. The visit, held at the Ga Mantse Palace in Accra, was to formally introduce the association to the King, brief him on preparations for the upcoming championship, seek his royal blessings, and present the championship trophy to His Majesty. Among the delegation was Ghana’s top-ranked Scrabble player, Charles Tachie-Menson, who made history by placing 8th at the 2023 World Scrabble Championship, earning international recognition for Ghana. During the engagement, Mr. Laryea expressed appreciation to the Ga Mantse and the Council for their continuous support for sports and community development. He noted that hosting WESPAC 2025 in Accra marks a significant milestone for Ghana and Africa, as the event will attract elite Scrabble players and enthusiasts from across the world. “The World Scrabble Championship in Accra is not just a tournament — it’s an opportunity to showcase Ghana’s hospitality, intellect, and organizational excellence on the global stage,” Mr. Laryea stated. His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II warmly welcomed the SCAG delegation and commended their efforts in promoting intellectual sports in Ghana. He offered his royal blessings and encouraged the team to prepare diligently to ensure victory for Ghana when the world gathers in Accra. “I am proud that this global event will be hosted on Ga land,” the King said. “Go and make Ghana proud. Bring home the trophy.” The meeting underscored SCAG’s respect for traditional leadership and its commitment to engaging local communities as partners in hosting world-class events. The World English-Language Scrabble Players’ Championship (WESPAC) 2025, organized by SCAG, will take place in Accra, bringing together the world’s best Scrabble players. The event cements Ghana’s reputation as a rising force in international mind sports. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for stronger supervision, program support, and improved documentation across health facilities in Ghana, following findings that revealed significant disparities in the quality of care between public and private facilities and across health service areas. Speaking to journalists at a one-day media training in Accra ahead of the national launch and dissemination of Ghana’s first Quality of Care (QoC) Report, Dominic Kwabena Atweam, National Professional Officer for Strategic Health Information Systems at WHO Ghana, said while some health programs such as HIV and Tuberculosis (TB) have achieved commendable performance, other areas like antenatal, malaria, and child health services showed weaker documentation and inconsistent adherence to clinical protocols. “HIV and TB services recorded stronger documentation and adherence largely because they are well-programmed and benefit from consistent funding support from global partners such as the Global Fund,” he noted. “However, for other essential services, we observed gaps that point to the need for sustained program supervision and accountability.” According to Mr. Atweam, the findings highlighted systematic differences between public and private facilities as well as between higher-level hospitals and lower-level care settings. He explained that while larger hospitals and polyclinics generally performed better in documenting patient data and following care guidelines, community-based and smaller facilities lagged behind. Providing a snapshot of the data, he noted; Antenatal Care (ANC): Documentation of blood pressure measurement and iron-folate supplementation was strong, while early antenatal contact documentation remained low at 47%. Malaria: Core assessment documentation and temperature measurements were well captured, but 40% of malaria cases were treated without a documented positive test result — a clear breach of the “test and treat” policy. HIV and TB: High performance was recorded in HIV testing, ART initiation, and TB diagnosis, though gaps persisted in documenting pre-ART preparation and condom provision, which stood at only 4%. Postnatal Care (PNC): About 58% of client records were properly documented, with early infant diagnosis and ART initiation coverage showing room for improvement. Mr. Atweam emphasized that these gaps, particularly in documentation, directly affect the accuracy of national health data and the ability to monitor progress toward universal health coverage. “We must reflect on how sustained program supervision and consistent data use can improve service quality. Documentation isn’t just paperwork — it’s the backbone of accountability and health system improvement,” he said. Delivering a statement on behalf of Dr. Fiona Braka, WHO Representative in Ghana; Dr. Uzoma Ajegbo, Programme Management Officer at WHO Ghana, said the session followed the official launch of the National Quality of Care Report held on November 20, 2025. Dr. Ajegbo explained that the HHFA project evaluates how health providers adhere to established standards during service delivery, focusing on the actual processes of care across facilities nationwide. The findings, she noted, reflect a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health Service, and development partners, with WHO providing technical support to ensure robust and nationally representative evidence on the quality of clinical care. "As members of the media, your role is essential. You are the bridge between technical evidence and public understanding,” Dr. Ajegbo said. “How this evidence is reported and disclosed will influence how policy makers, professionals, and the public perceive and respond to the findings.” She added that the engagement was part of a broader effort to move from measurement to improvement — ensuring that data collected not only informs decisions but also drives collective action toward stronger health service delivery. Reaffirming WHO’s continued partnership with the Government of Ghana, Dr. Ajegbo underscored the organization’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote equity, quality, and accountability across the health system. “WHO remains fully committed to working with the government and partners to advance health outcomes for all Ghanaians,” she stated. The Communications Officer of the World Health Organization (WHO) Ghana, Abdul-Lahie Abdul-Rahim Naa, has cautioned journalists and media practitioners against the use of emotional and misleading language in their reportage, particularly when dealing with sensitive public health issues. He said while it is understandable that journalists often face pressure to make their stories appealing to editors and audiences, accuracy and context must always take precedence over sensationalism. Mr. Abdul-Rahim Naa made the call when he addressed participants at a one-day Media Training Workshop organized by WHO Ghana ahead of the national launch and dissemination of Ghana’s first Quality of Care (QoC) Report in Accra. He explained that journalists sometimes use emotionally charged or misleading expressions to gain editorial approval or to compete for attention in a crowded media environment. However, such practices, he cautioned, can distort facts and undermine the credibility of health communication. “Sometimes, in our attempt to get our health stories noticed by editors, we end up using emotional or misleading language to make them sound more dramatic,” he said. “Yes, your story might get published, but it doesn’t help us achieve the real goal of promoting truth and understanding in public health communication.” Mr. Abdul-Rahim Naa emphasized the importance of context in interpreting and reporting health data. He noted that data alone does not tell the full story unless journalists take the time to understand and explain the circumstances behind it. "Every piece of data has a context,” he stressed. “If you provide that context, your story becomes more meaningful and accurate. Without it, the data can be misinterpreted or even used to mislead the public.” Drawing on his own background in journalism, he acknowledged that newsroom competition and editorial priorities often influence story selection. However, he urged reporters to remain guided by ethical principles and responsible communication. “As journalists, we know that editors prioritize stories based on prominence, novelty, and oddity,” he said. “But even within those pressures, we must ensure that our reporting is factual, balanced, and not misleading. Public trust in the media depends on this.” The workshop, organized by the WHO Country Office in Ghana, seeks to build the capacity of journalists and communication professionals to interpret and communicate health evidence more accurately. It aims to ensure that media coverage of the upcoming Quality of Care (QoC) Report and other health-related issues is informative, factual, and impactful. Through the training, WHO Ghana hopes to strengthen collaboration with the media in promoting responsible health communication, supporting national efforts to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Gold Board (GGB), in collaboration with the National Security, has arrested 25 individuals, including several foreign nationals, for their alleged involvement in illegal gold trading, smuggling, and assaying activities across parts of Accra. The arrests, which took place between 5th and 6th November 2025, followed weeks of intelligence-led surveillance and coordinated enforcement operations aimed at curbing illicit gold activities and promoting accountability within Ghana’s gold value chain. Speaking at a press briefing at the Ghana Gold Board Head Office in Accra, officials revealed that the suspects were apprehended in two separate operations — one at Dome Pillar 2 and the other at Achimota-Akweteman. In the first operation, five suspects — four Indian nationals and one Ghanaian — were arrested for fabricating and trading gold without a valid license, contrary to Section 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and Section 26(3) and (5) of the Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140). The suspects have been identified as Bhaskar Jashu, Manog Mal, Susajit Senti, Sardar Prennath, and Victoria Minkah. According to the Ghana Gold Board’s Intelligence Unit, the suspects were caught refining gold illegally in a jewellery shop located at Dome Pillar 2. A joint team comprising GGB investigators and National Security SWAT operatives arrested four of the suspects at the scene around 4:19 p.m. Items retrieved included 26 pieces of GRA moissanite emerald stones, 19 gold rings, six yellowish metal pieces suspected to be gold, a CCTV decoder, and several mobile phones. A locked safe was also discovered on the premises. During interrogation, the suspects disclosed that they worked for Bhaskar Jashu, the owner of Mahalaxmi Ghana Limited. Mr. Jashu later turned himself in with the key to the safe, which, when opened, contained GHS 22,670, multiple gold ornaments, and three gold bars. An assay conducted on 7th November 2025 confirmed the gold bars’ authenticity, with an estimated market value of GHS 453,032.73. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities extending their probe to the company’s secondary business locations and financial transactions. In a related operation on 6th November 2025, the GGB Task Force and National Security operatives raided the premises of Legend Precious Metal, located at Achimota-Akweteman, following intelligence that the company was involved in illegal gold smelting, assaying, and cross-border trading. The joint team arrested 20 suspects, including both Ghanaian and foreign nationals. Recovered exhibits included eight metal bars suspected to be gold, purchase and sale agreements, assaying reports, receipts, and cash sums totaling $112,500 and GHS 64,014.00. Two suspects — Clement Agbaglo and Emmanuel McAddy — were found in possession of sidearms, which were confiscated. Preliminary investigations revealed that Legend Precious Metal was not licensed by the Ghana Gold Board to conduct gold assaying or smelting operations. Further checks uncovered evidence of illegal gold trading through Togo and a fraud scheme allegedly orchestrated by the company’s management, led by Gabriel Sewornu, to dupe unsuspecting investors. The arrested individuals include: Gabriel Sewornu (Ghanaian, CEO of Legend Precious Metal), Lucia Al Yaziji (Former Belarusian Diplomat and Lawyer), Duncan Finlay Macinnes (British Investment Banker), Erik Manuel Belloran (American Former Serviceman), Demian Perrone (Argentine), Domenic Vasiljkovic and Panagiotis Jordanidis (Swedish Nationals), Alex Ivanov (Russian National), and several Ghanaians including Emmanuel McAddy, Kwesi Opare, Gilbert Nordzro, Magdalene Etwude Yeboah, Charles Ohemeng, Francis Atta, Michael Narh, Steve Hanson, Clement Agbaglo, Haruna Adams, Jerry Nananu Gli, and Chris Atsitsogbe. All suspects are currently assisting law enforcement agencies with investigations, which have since been extended to their respective residences and business premises. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s Lands Minister and Acting Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has urged world leaders to form genuine partnerships with Africa in driving the global transition toward clean and sustainable energy. Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the COP30 Summit in Belém, Brazil, the Minister declared that Africa holds immense potential to power the world’s green future through its abundant solar, wind, and hydropower resources. "We are not asking for charity. We are asking for partnership in the truest sense,” he emphasized, calling on developed nations to match Africa’s ambition with concrete action. Mr. Buah underscored that Africa is well-positioned to become a global hub for green energy but requires collaboration and fair access to climate finance to realize this potential. He called for increased and predictable funding to support adaptation initiatives and climate-resilient growth across the continent. “The climate finance promised for so long must now flow — not just in words, but in predictable investments that reach the communities who need them most,” he said. Reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to climate action, the Minister stated that the country stands ready to lead Africa’s clean energy agenda through innovation, technology, and sustainable resource management. “From the Volta to the Western shores, Ghana stands ready to power Africa’s clean future,” he concluded. The COP30 Conference, currently underway in Belém, brings together global leaders to accelerate emission reduction efforts, enhance climate financing, and advance the goals of the Paris Agreement. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), in collaboration with the National African Peer Review Mechanism Governing Council (NAPRM-GC), has held a validation meeting in Accra to review Ghana’s First Biennial Report under the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan (STYIP) of the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The meeting brought together representatives from government agencies, development partners, and civil society organisations to validate data and finalise Ghana’s progress report ahead of its submission to the African Union Commission. In his welcome address, the Director for Research at NDPC, Mr. Richard Tweneboah Kodua, reaffirmed Ghana’s strong commitment to advancing the goals of AU Agenda 2063. He noted that Ghana has consistently produced progress reports on the implementation of the Agenda, highlighting notable achievements in access to electricity, clean water, internet connectivity, and women’s empowerment. However, he acknowledged persistent challenges in employment creation and sustainable economic growth. Mr. Tweneboah Kodua underscored the need for credible data in reporting, stressing that the final report must present an accurate picture of Ghana’s progress and ensure alignment between national priorities and continental aspirations. Delivering a presentation on the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan, Madam Patience Ampomah, Senior Planning Analyst at NDPC, explained that the framework builds on lessons from the first decade of implementation, which achieved a 39 percent success rate across Africa. She indicated that the new plan (2024–2033) shifts focus from convergence to acceleration, guided by ambitious targets or “moonshots.” These include ensuring that all African countries attain middle-income status by 2033 and achieving deeper continental integration through trade, infrastructure, and digital connectivity. “Agenda 2063 is not just a continental dream; it is a roadmap for Africa’s transformation,” she stated, emphasising that its success depends on collective ownership, effective coordination, and stronger data systems at national and subnational levels. She called for strengthened partnerships, resource mobilisation, and renewed political will to fast-track progress towards Agenda 2063. Delivering a solidarity message, Mrs. Winnifred Asare, Acting Executive Secretary of the National African Peer Review Mechanism – Governing Council (NAPRM-GC), commended NDPC for its leadership and reiterated the Council’s commitment to supporting good governance and citizen participation in national development planning. She urged all stakeholders to promote inclusive growth and transformative governance as Africa enters what she described as the “decade of acceleration,” adding that the validated report would reflect Ghana’s governance performance and commitment to continental goals. Representatives from the Ministry of Finance and the African Union Technical Working Group also delivered messages of solidarity, reaffirming their commitment to supporting Ghana in achieving the shared vision of "The Africa We Want.” Story by: Fafa Nyame

The Government of Ghana has announced that a state funeral will be held for the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Independence Square in Accra. According to a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, the funeral is to honour Nana Konadu for her great work in promoting the rights of women and children and her service to national development. Nana Konadu passed away on October 23, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital in Accra. She was 76 years old. Her death has been met with sorrow across the country, with many people paying tribute to her as a strong and inspiring woman who fought for equality and empowerment. After her passing, Parliament suspended its sitting to mourn her, while her family asked the public for privacy during their time of grief. Nana Konadu served as Ghana’s First Lady for over 20 years, alongside her late husband, former President Jerry John Rawlings. She helped turn the role of First Lady into one that made a real difference in people’s lives. In 1982, she started the 31st December Women’s Movement, which helped women across Ghana—especially in rural areas—gain access to education, business opportunities, and leadership roles. The group also set up many preschools and adult literacy programmes. Her efforts led to major changes in laws, including the Intestate Succession Law (PNDCL 111), which protected the inheritance rights of widows and children. Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings will be remembered as a pioneer for women’s rights and a champion of social change. She will be laid to rest with full state honours on November 28, 2025. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Right Honourable Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has been announced as the Chair of the 9th Ghana International Trade and Finance Conference (GITFiC 2025), scheduled to take place from 27th to 29th November 2025 in Accra, Ghana. The three-day event, organized by the Ghana International Trade and Finance Conference (GITFiC) in collaboration with the National Technical Working Committee of the GITFiC Agenda 2031, will feature high-level discussions on trade, finance, and Africa’s debt sustainability. This year’s conference, themed “Spurring GITFiC’s Global Debt Initiative; Consolidating Member States’ Gains for Synergistic Impact,” will also host the second meeting of the Global Debt Initiative and the inaugural GITFiC–AfCFTA Tertiary Students’ Congress, signaling a major expansion of GITFiC’s engagement framework under its Agenda 2031. The conference will bring together Ministers from Member States, Central Bank Governors, International Development Experts, Global Economists, Business Leaders, Academia, and Civil Society Organisations to deliberate on strategies for advancing regional integration and debt management under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The participation of the Rt. Hon. Speaker, according to organizers, reflects Ghana’s strong commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and promoting Africa-led solutions to global financial challenges. His role underscores the crucial function of parliaments in shaping economic policy that ensures transparency, accountability, and sustainable development across the continent. A key highlight of the 2025 edition will be the launch of the GITFiC–AfCFTA Students Congress, an initiative that complements GITFiC’s ongoing implementation of the AfCFTA Students Clubs and Curriculum across Africa. The Congress aims to empower young Africans to actively engage in policy dialogue and contribute to the realization of the AfCFTA’s objectives. Since its inception, GITFiC has served as a premier continental platform for dialogue on trade and finance, fostering collaboration among governments, financial institutions, and academia. The 2025 conference is expected to produce actionable policy outcomes and forge partnerships that will drive Africa toward a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economic future. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith