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The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has held a mission accomplishment parade in honour of the Army Engineer Reconstruction Team (ERT) Company 1 at the 48 Engineers Parade Square, Wajir Barracks in Teshie. The ceremony, held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, celebrated the successful return of the 54-member engineering contingent, which was deployed to Jamaica on December 16, 2025, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The team was officially welcomed back by the President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, John Dramani Mahama, who commended the soldiers for their professionalism, discipline, and dedication throughout the mission. In his address, President Mahama noted that the deployment formed part of Ghana’s commitment to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. He added that the mission had further strengthened bilateral relations between Ghana, Jamaica, and other Caribbean nations. During the parade, the President presented a citation to the contingent in recognition of their outstanding service and the successful execution of their mandate, which contributed significantly to recovery efforts and improved living conditions in affected communities. He also praised the Officer Commanding the unit, Colonel Emmanuel Asia, for his exemplary leadership, describing it as a reflection of the high standards of the Ghana Armed Forces. The 90-day mission focused on reconstruction efforts in Saint Elizabeth Parish, including communities such as Middle Quarters, Black River, and Thorton, where damaged homes were restored. Also present at the ceremony were the Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, service chiefs, senior military officers, families of the troops, and pupils from schools within the Wajir Barracks enclave. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Five selected schools from Antoa Township in the Kwabre East Municipality of the Ashanti Region have successfully completed a one-day familiarisation visit to Accra, following an invitation by the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong. The visit, which took place on Monday, March 16, 2026, brought together a 50-member delegation led by the Asunahene of Antoa, Nana Sarkodie Dartey. The delegation comprised 40 students, five staff members, and five community representatives. Participating schools included Antoa Municipal Assembly Primary and Junior High School, CB Mensah SDA Junior High School, Adesina M/A Basic School, and Antoa United Primary School. As part of the visit, the delegation witnessed the 47th ceremonial guard changing at the Jubilee House, the seat of government. They later proceeded to the General Headquarters of the Ghana Armed Forces, where they engaged in an interactive session with Lt Gen Agyapong. The session was aimed at inspiring the students while strengthening the relationship between young learners and the military. Lt Gen Agyapong shared insights from his professional journey, emphasising the importance of discipline, character development, and national pride. He encouraged the students to take their education seriously, noting that academic discipline remains the foundation for future success. He also urged them to anchor their aspirations in faith and respect for authority. The delegation further toured the 153 Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment, where they were introduced to its role in national defence. The visit offered students a rare firsthand experience of military operations, including exposure to armoured vehicles and a passenger ride in some of them. A highlight of the tour was a captivating silent drill display, showcasing the precision and professionalism of the military. Expressing his appreciation, Nana Sarkodie Dartey described the visit as a historic and memorable experience for the people of Antoa. He noted that it was the first time such an opportunity had been extended by an indigene of the town and said the experience would remain unforgettable, particularly for the students. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, has provided a detailed assessment of Ghana’s industrial sector, noting that although the sector recorded some improvement, it continues to face significant constraints that could limit its contribution to overall economic growth. Presenting the latest data, Dr. Iddrisu explained that the industry sector grew by 1.9% in the fourth quarter of 2025, a notable increase from the marginal 0.3% growth recorded in the same period in 2024. This, he said, reflects a gradual recovery within parts of the sector, particularly in manufacturing and energy. However, he was quick to caution that the gains remain fragile. According to him, the overall performance of the sector was heavily weighed down by a sharp contraction in oil and gas production, which declined by 16.8% during the period under review. This downturn significantly offset the positive contributions from other industrial sub-sectors. Dr. Iddrisu highlighted that manufacturing emerged as a key bright spot, expanding by 6.1%, driven by increased production activities and demand in certain segments of the economy. Similarly, the electricity sub-sector recorded a growth of 7.2%, reflecting improvements in power generation and supply stability. Despite these positive developments, he stressed that the industrial sector’s growth remains uneven and vulnerable to external and structural shocks, particularly those affecting extractive industries such as oil, gas, and mining. He further explained that the continued underperformance of the oil and gas sub-sector underscores the need for targeted policy interventions, investment in efficiency, and diversification within the industry space. Strengthening value addition, improving infrastructure, and enhancing productivity in manufacturing will be critical to reducing overreliance on volatile extractive resources. Dr. Iddrisu emphasized that a more resilient and balanced industrial sector is essential for sustaining Ghana’s broader economic growth, especially as the country increasingly relies on non-oil sectors to drive expansion. He concluded that while the recent figures point to a modest rebound, deliberate and sustained efforts will be required to address the structural bottlenecks hindering the sector and unlock its full potential. Story by: Hawa Abubakar

Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health has inaugurated Advisory Boards for Nursing and Midwifery Training Colleges across Ghana, stressing the need for stronger governance, improved training quality, and strict adherence to regulatory standards within the country’s health education system. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, the Minister described the event as a significant step toward repositioning health training institutions to meet the growing and evolving demands of Ghana’s healthcare sector. “This ceremony is not merely an administrative exercise. It is a clear statement of our national commitment to strengthening the governance, quality, and strategic direction of health professional education in Ghana,” the Minister stated. He emphasised that while infrastructure and equipment remain important, the quality of healthcare ultimately depends on the competence of health professionals trained within these institutions. According to him, the government, under the Mahama administration, is prioritising reforms aimed at modernising health training institutions to respond to emerging health challenges, including the rise in non-communicable diseases, increased demand for emergency care, and the need for specialised services. As part of these reforms, the Minister announced the introduction of six specialised post-basic Bachelor of Science nursing programmes in collaboration with the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and the University of Cape Coast. The programmes include Cardiology, Critical Care, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Oncology, and Emergency Nursing, and are being rolled out in selected institutions nationwide. He further disclosed that government is working towards transitioning health training institutions into degree-awarding colleges to enhance academic standards and professional progression. Currently, about 42 institutions have completed the necessary assessments and are awaiting accreditation to begin degree programmes. To improve teaching quality, the Ministry has also secured scholarship opportunities for tutors to pursue PhD studies, with the first batch of beneficiaries expected to be announced soon. On student welfare, the Minister noted that nursing trainee allowances are now being paid regularly and monthly. He added that the government’s “No-Fee-Stress” policy, which covers first-year tertiary students, including nursing and midwifery trainees, is aimed at reducing financial barriers and expanding access to professional education. However, the Minister issued a strong warning to principals of training institutions, directing them to strictly adhere to approved admission quotas and only enrol students into accredited programmes. “Any Principal who disregards approved quotas or admits students into unaccredited programmes undermines quality assurance and the integrity of our health education system,” he cautioned. He stressed that disciplinary action would be taken against any institutional head who flouts directives from the Ministry, adding that no institution should introduce new programmes without prior authorisation. Turning to the newly inaugurated Advisory Board members, the Minister urged them to uphold transparency, accountability, and high academic standards while ensuring that institutions are managed in the national interest. “You are being entrusted with an important governance mandate at a critical time. Your role is to provide oversight and strategic direction to ensure these institutions deliver quality outcomes,” he said. He concluded by calling for collaboration, discipline, and a shared national vision in strengthening Ghana’s health training institutions to produce skilled, compassionate, and professional healthcare workers. The inauguration forms part of broader efforts by the Ministry of Health to reform the country’s healthcare training system and improve service delivery nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Coalition of Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities has issued a strong ultimatum to government, threatening a nationwide demonstration if its members are not offered employment opportunities by March 24. Addressing a press conference in Accra on Monday, March 16, the group expressed deep frustration over the continued exclusion of qualified persons with disabilities from the job market, despite possessing the requisite academic credentials. Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Princess Mensah noted that the situation persists in spite of the provisions of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2006 (Act 715), which guarantees equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. The coalition described the challenge as a systemic issue, citing entrenched barriers that continue to hinder access to employment across both public and private sectors. “We demand an immediate and clearly defined roadmap for unemployed graduates with disabilities in Ghana,” the Coalition of Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities stated, urging government to take decisive steps to address their concerns. The group further called for the full implementation and enforcement of employment quotas for persons with disabilities across all regions, warning that failure to act promptly could trigger widespread protests. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has directed a significant increase in recruitment across Ghana’s security agencies, raising the intake from 20,000 to 40,000 personnel over a four-year period. The directive was issued following a high-level meeting between the President and heads of the various security agencies, alongside the Minister for the Interior and the Acting Minister for Defence. The meeting focused on reviewing the ongoing recruitment process and strengthening the country’s security framework. After receiving a detailed briefing, President Mahama emphasized the need to scale up recruitment to enhance national security capacity while creating more employment opportunities for the youth. He further instructed the leadership of the security agencies to ensure strict transparency and fairness throughout the recruitment process, stressing that integrity must remain central to all engagements. The meeting was attended by key government and security officials, including the Chief of Staff, Secretary to the President, Senior Presidential Advisor on Governmental Affairs, National Security Coordinator, Inspector General of Police, Director-General of Prisons, Director-General of the Fire Service, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, and the Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission. The development was confirmed in a statement issued by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Member of Parliament and Spokesperson to the President, who also serves as Minister for Government Communications. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A Senior Delegation from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) traveled to Accra, Ghana, for a series of high-level engagements with the Ghana Police Service (GPS), reinforcing the growing partnership between the two police institutions and advancing discussions on operational cooperation, professional exchange, and modern policing practices. The delegation was formally received at Police Headquarters by Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, Inspector-General of Police of Ghana, together with members of the Police Management Board (POMAB). During the meeting, the NYPD delegation and the IGP held extensive discussions with POMAB focused on contemporary policing challenges and opportunities for cooperation between the two departments. The dialogue centered on several core themes relevant to modern law enforcement. Both sides exchanged perspectives on the employment of technology in policing, including data-driven policing models, digital investigative tools, and integrated intelligence platforms used to support operational decision-making. The delegations also discussed officer safety and welfare, emphasizing the importance of training, equipment, and institutional support systems that protect officers while enhancing operational effectiveness. Another significant component of the discussions addressed police accountability within a democratic dispensation. The NYPD delegation shared experiences and institutional practices regarding transparency, internal oversight, and community trust, while Ghana Police Service leadership highlighted reforms and accountability mechanisms within Ghana’s policing framework. A key topic during the meetings was the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the NYPD and the Ghana Police Service. Both sides reviewed the framework for strengthening institutional cooperation and facilitating sustained engagement between the two organizations. The discussions emphasized information sharing, training opportunities, and collaboration on transnational crime investigations. Beyond meetings with the Police Management Board, the NYPD delegation conducted working engagements with several operational units of the Ghana Police Service. The team met with senior officials from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the INTERPOL Accra National Central Bureau, and the Police Intelligence Directorate, where discussions focused on investigative cooperation, intelligence coordination, and the evolving threat landscape related to transnational criminal activity. The delegation also toured the Joint Operations Center (JOC) at Police Headquarters, receiving a briefing on Ghana’s integrated command and control capabilities used to coordinate nationwide policing operations, incident response, and intelligence monitoring. One of the most forward-looking outcomes of the visit was the discussion between the IGP and POMAB regarding officer exchange programs between the two institutions. The leadership discussed placement of a senior NYPD detective at Ghana Police Service Headquarters in Accra, as well as the embedding of a senior Ghana Police Service officer within the NYPD Intelligence Bureau in New York. The proposed exchanges are intended to deepen operational collaboration, strengthen investigative partnerships, and build institutional familiarity between the two departments. In addition to engagements within the Ghana Police Service, the NYPD delegation held courtesy meetings with the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, and leadership of the National Intelligence Bureau, led by Director-General Charles Alhassan Kipo, where discussions focused on national security coordination, intelligence sharing, and broader cooperation between Ghanaian and U.S. law enforcement and security partners. The delegation also paid a courtesy call on the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Accra, Rolf Olson. The visit represents a continuation of growing cooperation between the Ghana Police Service: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified following a major conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States, as earlier warnings by Ghanaian cleric Prophet Eric Boahen Uche about a possible global war resurface. The founder and leader of Reign House Chapel International, Prophet Uche, during his December 31, 2025 watchnight service, issued a series of prophecies concerning rising global tensions and increased military spending among powerful nations. According to the prophecy, the world should be concerned about the growing investments in weapons of mass destruction by several countries, warning that a single mistake could trigger a catastrophic global conflict. Speaking during the service, Prophet Uche said he had seen several nations increasing their spending on dangerous weapons and urged the world to pray to avert a potential third world war. He listed countries including India, Iran, Israel, Pakistan, Russia, the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, North Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, France and Germany as nations heavily investing in weapons capable of mass destruction. He warned that if any of these countries mistakenly launched such weapons against another nation, the consequences could be devastating. “We need to pray to avoid the third world war. Don't take my prophecy as a joke. “These countries are spending much to buy weapons. If any mistake one of these countries launched by one of these weapons to another country, get ready for third world war. I call for mercy and for God to redeem the world, “Prophet Uche cautioned. He further revealed that he had seen tensions among Arab nations escalating in 2026, potentially leading to conflicts within the region. The prophecy has gained renewed attention as the ongoing war involving Iran, Israel and the United States continues to escalate. The conflict, which began after joint US and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets nearly two weeks ago, has reportedly killed about 2,000 people, mostly in Iran and Lebanon. Despite heavy bombardments described by the Pentagon as some of the most intense strikes since the conflict began, Iran has continued to retaliate with missile and drone attacks across the Middle East. It may be recalled that, shortly after explosions were reported in the Iranian capital, US President Donald Trump took to social media to accuse Tehran of waging an "unending campaign of bloodshed and mass murder targeting the United States". Trump argued Iran had rejected every opportunity to renounce its nuclear programme and claimed it was developing long-range missiles that could threaten Europe, US troops overseas, and even "soon reach the American homeland". He further cited the violent takeover of the US embassy in Tehran in 1979, resulting in dozens of Americans being held hostage for 444 days, as well as Iran's proxies bombing a US Marine barracks in Beirut in 1983 that killed 241. The US president had also pledged in January to intervene when Iranian security forces crushed protests amid an economic crisis. In June last year, the US bombed three nuclear facilities in Iran. Trump said the US Operation Midnight Hammer had "obliterated" Iran's nuclear programme. Last summer's US attacks paved the way for a ceasefire in a 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel. Israel had launched air strikes on Iranian nuclear, military and infrastructure sites. Tehran had retaliated by firing hundreds of rockets and drones at Israel. Meanwhile, Iran warned that global oil prices could surge to $200 per barrel, particularly as tensions around the strategic Strait of Hormuz continue to escalate. Credit: Pastor Uche NB: Views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and not those of the publisher.

The Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Julius Debrah, has emphasised the importance of reliable data in strengthening governance and supporting evidence-based decision-making across government institutions. Speaking at a joint signing ceremony of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the Ghana Statistical Service and 25 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Accra on Thursday, March 12, 2026, Mr. Debrah said accurate and coordinated data systems are essential for effective national planning and policy implementation. The ceremony, held at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, forms part of efforts to strengthen Ghana’s National Statistical System and improve collaboration among public institutions that generate administrative data. Mr. Debrah noted that every major government decision rests on the availability of reliable information. “Every major decision taken by government rests on one foundation — information. When that information is reliable, decisions are confident. When it is incomplete or inconsistent, decisions become uncertain,” he stated. According to him, government institutions generate large volumes of administrative data daily across sectors such as education, health, trade, immigration, environmental protection and social protection. He explained that this information forms the foundation for planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluating national development programmes. However, he acknowledged that a long-standing challenge within the public sector has been the fragmentation of data systems across institutions. “Different institutions often operate with different definitions, reporting timelines and data standards. As a result, government sometimes receives multiple versions of the same reality, which weakens the ability of policymakers to make timely and confident decisions,” he said. Mr. Debrah described the signing of the MoUs as a decisive step toward building a more coordinated and coherent national data ecosystem. He explained that the agreements will strengthen the mandate of the Ghana Statistical Service to coordinate the National Statistical System under the Statistical Service Act, 2019 while creating a practical framework for data sharing and collaboration across government institutions. Through harmonised data standards and structured information sharing, he said the initiative will help transform administrative data into a strategic national asset for development. Mr. Debrah further stressed that credible statistics play a crucial role in governance, influencing how governments allocate resources, measure progress and strengthen accountability to citizens. He noted that John Dramani Mahama has consistently emphasised the need to strengthen Ghana’s statistical and data systems as part of efforts to build a modern and efficient public sector. Quoting the President, he said: “Sound decisions must be rooted in sound data.” Mr. Debrah also disclosed that the 2026 national budget has made deliberate provisions to support priority statistical initiatives and strengthen the capacity of the Ghana Statistical Service to coordinate the National Statistical System. He described statistics as critical national infrastructure that connects government decisions to reality, similar to how roads and digital networks connect communities and economies. According to him, the agreements will also help address long-standing challenges such as fragmented information systems, inconsistent datasets, delays in reporting and duplication of effort across institutions. He added that improved coordination among institutions will enable government to access more reliable information for policymaking, while allowing public institutions to operate more efficiently through shared systems and common standards. Mr. Debrah, however, stressed that the real impact of the agreements will depend on effective implementation by all participating institutions. “The real work begins after the signatures are appended to these agreements. Institutions must ensure that administrative data is recorded accurately, updated regularly and managed professionally,” he stated. He therefore urged Chief Directors and heads of public institutions to prioritise data governance within their organisations by strengthening statistical units, respecting data standards and adhering to reporting timelines. Mr. Debrah assured that the Office of the President will continue to support the initiative and work closely with the Ghana Statistical Service to monitor progress. “When data improves, governance improves. When governance improves, development outcomes improve, and ultimately the lives of our citizens improve,” he said. He commended the Ghana Statistical Service and all participating institutions for their commitment to strengthening Ghana’s National Statistical System and promoting evidence-based policymaking in the country. On his part, Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, stressed the importance of strengthening data governance and collaboration across public institutions to support economic planning and evidence-based policymaking in Ghana. According to Dr. Iddrisu, government institutions generate large volumes of administrative data every day across sectors such as health, education, public safety, immigration, environmental management and economic activity. However, he noted that much of this information has historically remained fragmented across institutions, often stored in different systems and managed under varying standards. “For many years, much of this information has remained fragmented across institutions, stored in different systems, managed with different standards, and often not easily accessible for national planning and policymaking,” he stated. He explained that the MoUs signed between the Ghana Statistical Service and the 25 MDAs are designed to address these long-standing challenges by creating clear frameworks for data sharing, quality assurance and coordination across government institutions. Dr. Iddrisu noted that the agreements outline what data will be shared, how it will be shared and the timelines for sharing such information. They also designate focal persons within institutions and establish technical standards and review mechanisms to ensure effective implementation. He emphasised that the initiative represents a major cultural shift within the public sector—from fragmented data systems toward more connected and collaborative information management. “This represents a shift from institutional silos to institutional collaboration and from data that sits in isolated databases to data that actively informs national decisions,” he said. The Government Statistician noted that the 25 institutions involved in the agreements form a critical administrative data backbone for the country. They include key ministries and agencies responsible for governance, economic transformation, social protection, natural resources, infrastructure and technology. Among the agencies referenced were the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Environmental Protection Authority, National Communications Authority, National Disaster Management Organisation and the Births and Deaths Registry. Dr. Iddrisu explained that the initiative is anchored in the Statistical Service Act, 2019, which mandates the Ghana Statistical Service to coordinate the National Statistical System and establish standards for official statistics while ensuring responsible data sharing and confidentiality. Beyond the MoUs, he revealed that the Ghana Statistical Service is also rolling out three major national frameworks aimed at strengthening the production and use of official statistics. These include the Data Quality Assurance Framework (DQAF), which sets standards to ensure the accuracy and reliability of official statistics; the Code of Ethics and Practice for the National Statistical System, which promotes professionalism and confidentiality in statistical production; and the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS III), which provides the roadmap for modernising Ghana’s statistical system. Dr. Iddrisu disclosed that implementation of the agreements will begin immediately, with the Ghana Statistical Service working closely with partner institutions to finalise data-sharing policies, strengthen statistical units within MDAs and operationalise technical standards that will support interoperability across government data systems. He further revealed that 17 ministries, departments and agencies have already developed draft data-sharing policies, which are currently being refined before being made publicly accessible to enhance transparency and responsible data use. Dr. Iddrisu expressed optimism that the initiative will lead to a more coordinated National Statistical System, improved administrative datasets and faster, more informed decision-making across government. “When data is timely, harmonised and credible, policies become smarter, public resources are used more efficiently and accountability becomes stronger,” he said. He therefore urged public institutions to prioritise data governance and ensure that administrative data is properly recorded, managed and shared to support national statistical production and economic development. According to him, strengthening Ghana’s statistical infrastructure will ultimately enhance policy coordination, improve public service delivery and support sustainable development outcomes for citizens. Taking Deputy Minister for Finance and Member of Parliament for Asuogyaman, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has emphasised the importance of strong statistical systems in guiding national economic planning, budgeting and policy implementation. Mr. Ampem noted that reliable data remains the backbone of effective governance and sound economic management. According to the Deputy Finance Minister, the agreements between the Ghana Statistical Service and the participating MDAs represent more than administrative arrangements. “They represent a national commitment to institutional coordination, data integrity and informed policymaking,” he stated. Mr. Ampem explained that the Ministry of Finance places high value on strong and reliable data systems because national budgets, fiscal policies and development programmes depend heavily on accurate statistics. “For the Ministry of Finance, the value of strong data systems cannot be overstated. Every budget we prepare, every fiscal policy we design and every development programme we implement depends on accurate, strong and timely statistics,” he said. He noted that when government decisions are supported by credible data, policy implementation becomes more effective, public resources are allocated more efficiently and accountability to citizens is strengthened. The Deputy Finance Minister also recalled that discussions on improving Ghana’s statistical ecosystem began during the Annual Forum for Producers and Users of Data held in December last year. According to him, that forum brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on reforms needed to strengthen the country’s statistical systems and improve collaboration among public institutions. “One key message from that meeting was clear: Ghana’s development ambitions must be supported by stronger data collaboration across government institutions,” he said. Mr. Ampem stressed that policies must be guided by facts, budgets must be informed by evidence and national planning must rely on reliable statistics. He added that the MoUs being signed will help improve administrative data sharing across government institutions, strengthen coordination within the National Statistical System and enhance the quality and reliability of official statistics. The agreements, he said, will also support better monitoring of national development priorities and improve government’s ability to measure progress and evaluate the impact of policies. Mr. Ampem further noted that countries that invest in strong statistical systems tend to achieve better policy outcomes because data has become a strategic national asset in modern governance. He commended the ministries, departments and agencies participating in the agreements for demonstrating commitment to building a modern and responsive national data ecosystem. According to him, collaboration among institutions remains essential in strengthening Ghana’s data infrastructure and ensuring that government decisions are based on reliable information. Mr. Ampem, however, stressed that the success of the initiative will depend on effective implementation of the agreements after the signing ceremony. “These agreements must translate into practical institutional cooperation, stronger administrative data systems and continuous capacity building across our institutions,” he said. He expressed confidence that if successfully implemented, the initiative will position Ghana to better measure development progress, evaluate policy outcomes and deliver improved economic and social benefits to citizens. “Together, we must build a Ghana that plans with data, acts with evidence and delivers results for the people,” he added. Head of the Civil Service of Ghana, Evans Aggrey-Darkoh, underscored the importance of credible data systems in improving public administration and strengthening the delivery of government services. According to Dr. Aggrey-Darkoh, the Civil Service plays a critical role in implementing national policies and development programmes, making the availability of credible and well-managed information systems essential for effective governance. “Planning requires reliable data, monitoring requires reliable data, and evaluating the impact of policies also requires reliable data,” he said, adding that improving public service delivery equally depends on the availability of accurate information. He noted that the MoUs represent a practical step toward strengthening data governance within government institutions and improving the way administrative data is generated, managed and used in decision-making. Dr. Aggrey-Darkoh revealed that when the Ghana Statistical Service approached his office in 2024 to support the initiative, the Civil Service immediately recognised its significance and offered its full backing. He commended the Office of the President, particularly the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, for providing leadership and coordination in promoting data-driven governance across the public sector. He also praised the Government Statistician, Alhassan Iddrisu, the governing board of the Ghana Statistical Service and the technical teams from the participating ministries and agencies for their commitment to strengthening the country’s statistical ecosystem. Dr. Aggrey-Darkoh explained that the agreements will help ministries and agencies improve the way administrative data is collected, analysed and used to inform policy decisions and performance management within the public sector. He noted that the MoUs will also reinforce the implementation of two key national frameworks recently approved for the National Statistical System — the Code of Ethics and Practice for the National Statistical System and the Data Quality Assurance Framework. According to him, these frameworks promote professionalism, accountability and integrity in the production and use of official statistics, while ensuring that public institutions generate data that is accurate, consistent and reliable. Dr. Aggrey-Darkoh urged ministries, departments and agencies to ensure disciplined implementation of the agreements by strengthening internal data systems, supporting statistical and information management units, and adhering to agreed standards and timelines for data production. He also encouraged the Ghana Statistical Service to work closely with ministries and agencies to develop Sector Statistics Plans that will guide the improvement of data systems within individual sectors. The Head of the Civil Service assured that his office will continue to collaborate with relevant institutions to monitor the implementation of the agreements and ensure effective coordination across government. He added that strengthening data systems forms part of broader reforms within the Civil Service aimed at building a more responsive, results-oriented and accountable public sector. “When information systems improve, institutions perform better, and when institutions perform better, citizens receive better services,” he said. Dr. Aggrey-Darkoh expressed confidence that the collaboration between the Ghana Statistical Service and the participating ministries and agencies will significantly improve how government institutions generate and use data to drive national development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

The Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, has called on local authorities to place greater emphasis on community engagement and effective planning in driving development across the country’s districts. Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement in the Northern Region on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Dr. Amoah stressed that development planning must go beyond paperwork and reflect the real needs and priorities of local communities. “Preparing a development plan is not just desk work,” she stated. "It requires engagement with communities, adequate logistical support, and a strong commitment to implementation.” Dr. Amoah explained that development plans serve as the foundation for coordinated growth and effective resource allocation at the district level. According to her, when properly developed and implemented, such plans ensure that development interventions are systematic, responsive and sustainable. The NDPC Director-General also highlighted the importance of the District Performance Assessment Tool (DPAT), which she said plays a crucial role in promoting accountability and improving the performance of local authorities. She noted that the DPAT ranks districts based on key performance indicators, largely drawn from planning documents such as development plans and Annual Action Plans. “The DPAT ranks all districts, and no district would want to find itself in the last position,” Dr. Amoah remarked. Dr. Amoah further emphasised that the quality of planning documents is critical, particularly during monitoring exercises by development partners and oversight institutions, including internal audit teams, which often review such documents as part of their assessment. She cautioned that delays in reporting at the district level could disrupt the country’s broader monitoring and evaluation framework, as national development reporting depends heavily on data and progress reports submitted by local authorities. The NDPC Director-General therefore urged district officials to strengthen coordination within their planning structures, particularly the District Planning Coordinating Units, which are mandated to meet quarterly to review implementation progress and address emerging challenges. She concluded by highlighting the role of the Regional Integrated Development Plan, which brings together the development priorities of all districts within a region to ensure coordinated and sustainable development across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Alhaji Dr. Yusif Sulemana, has announced that no public land will be allocated in Ghana without the prior approval of the sector Minister, as part of new reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability in public land administration. Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Hon. Sulemana said the directive forms part of sweeping reforms introduced by government to restore integrity and improve efficiency in the management of public lands. According to him, the new measure will ensure stronger ministerial oversight and guarantee that all public land allocations align with national development priorities. He explained that the reforms, which are being implemented by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in collaboration with the Lands Commission following Cabinet directives, are intended to address longstanding challenges associated with the administration of public lands. “One of the key measures is that no public land will be allocated without the prior approval of the Minister. This is to ensure greater accountability and proper supervision in the allocation process,” the Deputy Minister stated. Hon. Sulemana further disclosed that the Ministry has undertaken a comprehensive review of the Lands Commission’s internal processes for allocating public lands, introducing clearly defined stages and stronger verification mechanisms to improve transparency and traceability in decision-making. He noted that government has also introduced a new premium framework for public land leases which requires applicants to pay at least 70 percent of the assigned market value upfront, while the remaining 30 percent will be spread over the tenure of the lease as ground rent. The Deputy Minister explained that the new payment structure is aimed at enhancing revenue generation for the state and eliminating disparities where individuals previously paid significantly different premiums for similar parcels of land. He also revealed that the Ministry has revised the Public Land Application Form, commonly known as Form 5, which will now serve as the single mandatory application instrument for all public land transactions across the country. The revised form will apply to both new applications and reapplications by individuals whose earlier applications were cancelled during the recent public land review exercise. As part of efforts to improve accessibility, the Lands Commission will publish the application form on its official website to enable applicants download, complete and submit their applications electronically. Hon. Sulemana further announced that the Ministry and the Lands Commission have compiled standardised market values for several estates across the country, including more than 30 estates in the Greater Accra Region. These values will be published online to guide the assessment of land premiums and eliminate discretionary pricing. In addition, a Public Land Protection Taskforce will soon be inaugurated to prevent encroachment on state lands, halt unauthorised developments and prosecute offenders. He added that the temporary suspension on public land transactions has now been lifted, with all services expected to operate strictly under the newly introduced reforms. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, has called for a more integrated and efficient approach in tackling tuberculosis (TB), HIV and malaria, stressing that the changing global funding landscape demands smarter use of available resources. Speaking at the Joint Annual Performance Review for the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), National Tuberculosis Programme (NTP) and National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) held at the Ghana Health Service Headquarters in Pantang, Dr. Akoriyea said integration of health programmes is no longer merely an administrative reform but a clinical and public health necessity. According to him, although the government has demonstrated strong commitment to the health sector through increased domestic investments, the reality remains that global donor support is gradually declining, making it imperative for Ghana to strengthen internal systems and maximise available resources. Dr. Akoriyea cited government initiatives such as the Free Primary Health Care programme, the National Health Insurance Scheme, and increased central budget allocations to the health sector as clear indications of the state’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery. However, he stressed that the future sustainability of key health programmes will depend largely on leadership, innovation and accountability at regional and district levels. “Sustainability will depend less on external support and more on leadership, innovation and accountability within our own governance systems,” he said. The Director-General urged regional and district health managers, medical superintendents and facility leaders to take full ownership of programme performance by closely monitoring data, supervising personnel effectively and ensuring the optimal use of medical equipment and commodities. He noted that while national programmes will continue to provide policy direction and strategic guidance, the real performance outcomes will be determined by leadership at the regional and district levels. Dr. Akoriyea also raised concerns about low TB case notification rates, calling for routine TB screening to become standard practice across all health facilities and community service points. He emphasized that every patient presenting with prolonged cough must be screened for tuberculosis to improve early detection and treatment outcomes. On HIV, the Director-General called for a shift away from treating the disease as a stand-alone programme, advocating for its full integration into routine health services. “HIV care must be fully integrated into routine health service delivery. HIV data is health system data, and leadership engagement with this information is essential for improving service delivery,” he stated. Touching on malaria, Dr. Akoriyea acknowledged Ghana’s significant progress in reducing malaria mortality, describing it as one of the country’s most notable public health achievements. Despite the gains, he cautioned that achieving malaria elimination will require stronger national commitment, improved coverage across communities and increased domestic resource mobilisation. He therefore urged regional and district health directors to actively collaborate with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) and regional coordinating councils to mobilise local resources to support malaria elimination efforts. Dr. Akoriyea further stressed the importance of accurate and transparent data, warning that misleading reports undermine effective decision-making. “I am not interested in reports that appear impressive but conceal the reality. I am interested in truthful data that enables action,” he emphasised. He also called for stronger collaboration among development partners, civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations and patient advocacy groups to design sustainable transition strategies as global health financing evolves. The Director-General acknowledged the critical role played by faith-based and private health service providers, particularly the Christian Health Association of Ghana, in delivering essential health services across the country. Dr. Akoriyea expressed optimism that with strong leadership, evidence-based planning and disciplined implementation, Ghana can achieve major public health goals including ending TB transmission, eliminating HIV infections among future generations and reducing malaria deaths to zero. He urged stakeholders to use the meeting to conduct honest assessments of health system gaps, develop clear regional action plans, and propose practical strategies for integrating TB, HIV and malaria programmes to strengthen the country’s overall health system. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar