The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim (MP), has described the re-introduced National Sanitation Day (NSD) as a “clarion call to all Ghanaians” to rise up and take collective responsibility for maintaining a clean and healthy environment. He spoke at the official relaunch of the NSD held at the Institute of Local Government Studies in Madina, Accra. The Minister emphasized the urgent need for renewed national commitment to tackle poor sanitation and restore dignity to communities across the country. “We are rekindling a national movement — one that restores cleanliness, discipline and pride to our cities and towns" "The National Sanitation Day is a clarion call to all Ghanaians, communities, public institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations and indeed everyone, to unite against unsanitary conditions,” he declared. Hon. Ibrahim announced that the NSD will now be observed nationwide on the first Saturday of every month, with intensified public education, local government accountability, and citizen involvement at its core. He expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for championing the initiative, both in its original form in 2014 and in its current relaunch. He added that government's renewed commitment will be backed by enforcement, key performance indicators (KPIs) for MMDCEs, and a dedicated sanitation hotline for public complaints. The relaunch brought together regional ministers, MMDCEs, traditional and religious leaders, civil society actors, youth groups and development partners, all pledging their support to make the National Sanitation Day a national success story. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has relaunched the National Sanitation Day initiative with a strong call on Ghanaians to embrace communal responsibility in maintaining clean environments. Speaking at the relaunch of National Sanitation Day at the Institute of Local Government Studies (ILGS) in Madina on Saturday, the President stressed that sanitation remains fundamental to public health, education, tourism, and socio-economic development, yet unsanitary conditions continue to undermine national progress. “It is incumbent upon us to prioritize and address these issues with untiring resolve, with a coordinated, sustained and collective effort to confront these challenges head-on to keep our cities and towns clean,” Mahama declared. The National Sanitation Day, first introduced under his administration in 2014, will now be observed nationwide on the first Saturday of every month. The programme forms part of government’s broader “Clean Up Ghana” agenda, which aims to instill environmental consciousness and foster a culture of routine cleaning. Mahama outlined the objectives of the initiative, including promoting community ownership, reducing disease outbreaks through proper waste management, and enhancing Ghana’s appeal as a tourist and investment destination. He further emphasized that the sanitation sector holds vast potential for youth entrepreneurship and job creation. “Our young people can transform the waste management sector into a viable economic venture, creating employment and sustaining the environment,” he said. The President also highlighted complementary government initiatives such as the Blue Water River Guards programme, designed to train 2,000 youth to protect river bodies from illegal mining, and the Tree for Life Restoration project, which engages communities in reforestation and climate resilience efforts. To ensure accountability, Mahama announced that Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) will be assessed on sanitation indicators under a new performance framework. Additionally, a “Cleanest City Award” will be instituted to reward assemblies that excel in maintaining clean environments. The President appealed to the media, traditional authorities, and religious leaders to play leading roles in promoting the initiative and mobilizing citizens. “We are not just cleaning our environment; we are securing the health of our people, protecting our environment and leaving a legacy for the generations to come,” he said. He concluded by urging Ghanaians to rekindle the spirit of communal labour and make the National Sanitation Day a true reflection of national pride and responsibility. “Together, we can build a nation where cleanliness and environmental responsibility are part of our everyday life,” Mahama affirmed. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service has announced a series of temporary road closures and diversions in parts of Accra on Saturday, September 6, 2025, to make way for the Millennium Marathon organized by Millennium Marathon Sports Limited (MMSL). The affected routes include major roads and intersections across the capital, with the closures expected to impact traffic flow for several hours during the day. Roads to be Temporarily Closed: Atta Mills High Street towards Osu Liberation Road, from 37 Military Hospital intersection to the Central Business District (CBD) Independence Avenue at the National Theatre Traffic Light La Beach Road Oxford Street (Osu) Cantonments Road Jawaharlal Nehru Road Alternative Routes and Diversions: Motorists travelling from Liberation Road are advised to divert through Kaokudi, join the Kanda Highway, and connect via Barnes Road to the CBD, or use Giffard Road to access Osu. Drivers on the Atta Mills Highway should use Liberia Road and Barnes Road to reach the 37 Military Hospital intersection, from where they can continue towards Osu or La. Those on Giffard Road are encouraged to use the 37 intersection, proceed through Kaokudi, and join Dr. Hilla Limann Highway en route to the CBD. The Police have cautioned motorists against parking on any of the listed routes during the closure period. Traffic officers will be stationed at key points to assist drivers and ensure smooth movement. The public is advised to plan ahead and use alternative routes to avoid inconvenience. The Millennium Marathon is one of Ghana’s biggest road races, attracting both local and international athletes. Authorities are calling for maximum cooperation from the public to ensure a successful and safe event. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Nihad Salifu, a pediatric oncologist at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge), has issued a compelling call for heightened community awareness and early detection in the fight against childhood cancer. “Childhood cancer is not a death sentence. Early detection is the difference between life and loss,” Dr. Salifu said during a courtesy call by Ridge Hospital to the Adabraka Atukpai Stool Authority on Wednesday to engage traditional leaders to champion childhood cancer awareness. The visit, led by top management, formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community engagement and raise awareness about the early signs of childhood cancer, particularly within traditional and local leadership structures. Dr. Salifu stressed the importance of public vigilance and knowledge of common warning signs. One such sign, she explained, is a whitish glow in a child’s eye — a possible indicator of retinoblastoma, a common eye cancer in children under six. Another red flag is a firm or unusual swelling in a child’s abdomen, which may signal Wilms’ tumor, a kidney cancer. “These signs often show up during everyday routines like bathing or dressing the child. But many families wait too long before seeking medical help,” she warned. She added that while childhood cancers are not typically caused by lifestyle or environmental factors and are often unpreventable, they are highly curable when identified and treated early. To expand access to timely care, the Ministry of Health has established nine specialized childhood cancer treatment centers across the country — including at Ridge, Korle Bu, and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospitals. These are complemented by CHPS compounds that serve as entry points for referrals. “A child can now move from the community level straight into treatment without delay,” Dr. Salifu said. “That seamless care pathway is saving lives.” As part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Ministry and its partners are also distributing short educational videos and materials through platforms like WhatsApp, aimed at empowering parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community members. “We need everyone — pastors, imams, market women, assemblymen — to be part of this campaign,” she said. “Recognizing symptoms early and acting fast can save a child’s life.” “Children who survive cancer can go on to live healthy, meaningful lives. But we must catch it early. That’s where all of us come in.” On her part, Naa Korkor Andzieoyi I, Queen Mother of the Adabraka Atukpai Stool Authority, stressed the urgent need for community-wide education on childhood cancer. She highlighted that a lack of understanding continues to hinder early detection and treatment in many households. "We are not taking cancer seriously because we don’t understand it,” she said. “If we knew the effects, we would act faster and seek help immediately.” Queen Mother Andzieoyi I emphasized the critical role of awareness, particularly among market women and other grassroots groups. She recalled previous advocacy efforts during the “Yellow Month” campaign, where many women initially arrived late and confused — but later grasped the message after a simple role-play demonstration. “Once we dramatized the symptoms, everyone understood. That’s how powerful education can be,” she noted. “So when you launch this cancer awareness initiative, let’s take it to the markets. Our women are leaders too. When they understand, they’ll spread the word.” She also underscored the unique vulnerability of children, explaining that unlike adults, children cannot clearly articulate pain or discomfort — making it even more important for parents and caregivers to be aware of silent symptoms such as eye changes or abdominal swelling. “A child cannot say what is hurting. We, the adults, must learn to see the signs,” she said. The Queen Mother praised Ridge Hospital for the progress made in eye care services within the community and welcomed the hospital’s ongoing efforts to offer treatment for childhood cancers. She pledged the support of the traditional authority in mobilizing the community. “In our community, awareness is still low. But now that Ridge Hospital is offering treatment, we will do our part. We will advocate and educate. The message must go out that medical care is now accessible and lives can be saved.” She revealed plans to engage all three major markets in the area as focal points for outreach, ensuring that vendors and customers alike understand the warning signs of childhood cancers — particularly those affecting the eyes and kidneys. “We will call the people. We will explain to them what childhood cancer is, and why it is different from adult sicknesses. The pain a child feels may be silent — but deadly if ignored.” The visit is part of Ridge Hospital’s ongoing collaboration with traditional authorities to enhance early detection and community support in the fight against childhood cancer. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a bold and visionary pitch to global investors, Ghana has firmly repositioned itself as Africa’s most attractive destination for ethical, value-driven mining, unveiling billions of dollars in investment-ready opportunities across both traditional and green minerals. Addressing the 23rd Africa Down Under Conference in Perth, Ghana’s Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), delivered a rousing keynote that underscored the country’s unique blend of mineral wealth, political stability, and forward-thinking policies. “Ghana is not just about extracting resources,” he told a packed hall of investors, policy leaders, and mining executives. “We are committed to a paradigm shift — one that moves beyond raw extraction to transformation, value addition, and shared prosperity.” Leveraging Ghana’s historic reputation as the "Gold Coast" and its current standing as Africa’s number one gold producer, Hon. Buah reaffirmed the country’s stature as a proven mining powerhouse, backed by over US$20 billion in accumulated mining investments and decades of uninterrupted democratic governance. “You can invest in Ghana with confidence,” he said. “Our stable political environment, rule of law, and digital transparency tools are unmatched. Ghana remains a beacon of democracy in Africa" Central to Ghana’s modern investment appeal is the Mineral Cadastre Administration System (MCAS) — a digital licensing platform designed to enhance transparency and reduce bureaucratic delays. According to the Minister, this innovation is already fast-tracking approvals and attracting serious international attention. While Ghana’s gold credentials are undisputed, the Minister used the global stage to spotlight a much broader opportunity. He revealed a diverse portfolio of critical minerals central to the world’s clean energy transition, including: Bauxite & Iron Ore: Through the Ghana Integrated Bauxite Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) and Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), the government is actively seeking private sector partners to develop integrated mining-to-manufacturing chains, with over 1.5 billion tonnes of iron ore reserves confirmed. Lithium & Base Metals: Confirming major exploration activities by Atlantic Lithium Ltd., Hon. Buah noted strong geological potential for cobalt, copper, nickel, and zinc — critical for electric vehicles, energy storage, and technology manufacturing. “Ghana is positioning itself as a strategic supplier for the global energy transition,” he declared. The Minister’s message was clear: Ghana’s new mining era is defined not by mere extraction, but by industrialisation, local processing, and long-term economic linkages. He outlined a vision where investors don’t just extract and export, but build factories, create jobs, and develop skills locally — making mining a driver of national transformation. “We want partners who understand that mining is not just about extraction, but about transformation and shared value,” he said to applause. Hon. Buah emphasized that investors entering Ghana’s mining sector will benefit from a fully developed ecosystem: Over 500 active exploration projects A network of more than 200 engineering and mining service companies A regulatory environment increasingly aligned with sustainability, ESG goals, and investor protection With global demand for critical minerals accelerating and the race for secure, ethical supply chains intensifying, Ghana’s pitch could not have come at a better time. In Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah’s words, “This is Ghana’s moment. And we invite the world to be part of our transformation story.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu has announced a sustained decline in Ghana’s inflation, describing the trend as a significant sign of economic recovery and price stabilization. “Inflation is falling steadily,” he told journalists during a media briefing in Accra on Wednesday, following the release of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for August 2025. According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), inflation for August stood at 11.5%, down from 12.1% in July, marking the lowest inflation rate since October 2021 and the eighth consecutive monthly decline. “This consistent decline—from 23.8% in December 2024 to 11.5% in August 2025—shows a real and sustained shift in prices. It signals that Ghana’s economic stabilization programme is delivering results,” Dr. Iddrisu emphasized. Beyond the annual rate, the Month-on-Month (MoM) inflation rate for August was -1.3%, indicating that overall prices fell between July and August. Dr. Iddrisu noted that this monthly deflation offers direct relief to households, particularly in food and goods prices. Food inflation fell to 14.8%, with food prices dropping by 2.5% within the month. Non-food inflation also declined to 8.7% from 9.5% in July, with a slight 0.1% decrease in prices. Goods inflation moderated to 13.9%, as goods prices fell by 1.6% between July and August. Dr. Iddrisu explained that imported inflation is easing faster than local inflation, driven by a stronger cedi and reduced global cost pressures. However, he cautioned that regional price variations remain significant, influenced by local supply chains, transportation costs, and market access. The GSS has also begun publishing enhanced analytical reports, including: Inflation decomposed into goods and services Annual average inflation analysis Contribution-based inflation insights Infographics to improve public understanding Policy recommendations for targeted responses “We are not just reporting inflation figures; we are breaking them down to inform action across government, business, and households,” Dr. Iddrisu said. Dr. Iddrisu acknowledged that while the numbers are encouraging, maintaining the momentum will require continued macroeconomic discipline and inclusive strategies to address regional disparities. “Inflation is declining across all major categories—food, non-food, goods, local, and imported. This is real progress, but we must stay vigilant to ensure no part of the country is left behind,” he concluded. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, has issued a stern reminder that cybercrime is now a national security threat that demands urgent, collective action. Speaking at the media launch of the 2025 National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) held at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Auditorium on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, COP Donkor stressed “The fight against cybercrime is not optional—it is essential for our survival as a modern nation.” She explained that Ghana's increasing reliance on digital infrastructure for commerce, education, healthcare, and governance has made the country more vulnerable to cyber threats including online fraud, misinformation, and identity theft. COP Donkor highlighted the evolving responsibilities of the Ghana Police Service in combating cybercrime. She said the CID, through its Cybercrime Unit, has strengthened collaborations with the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and other partners to detect and disrupt cybercriminal networks, build capacity among officers, and support public awareness campaigns. She revealed that the Police Service has invested in cyber intelligence platforms powered by artificial intelligence, enabling investigators to analyze large volumes of digital evidence and identify suspects more effectively. “These AI-powered systems are revolutionizing our ability to track online criminal networks and solve complex digital crimes,” she noted. One of the CID’s most notable recent successes, according to COP Donkor, is the launch of the Amber Alert Ghana system in partnership with Meta. The initiative leverages social media to push real-time alerts during missing children cases, turning every citizen into an active participant in the search effort. “This is not just a technological solution. It’s a community policing strategy powered by digital innovation,” she said. COP Donkor called for a whole-of-society approach to fighting cybercrime, stressing that government, private sector, academia, media, and ordinary citizens all have roles to play. She issued a series of specific calls: To government: Continue investing in cybersecurity infrastructure, legal reforms, and police capacity. To businesses: Report cyber incidents promptly and strengthen internal defenses. To academia: Train cyber analysts, forensic investigators, and ethical hackers. To the media: Protect facts and resist misinformation. To citizens: Safeguard your digital identity and report suspicious activity. “National resilience is not built by institutions alone but by the actions of every individual,” she emphasized. COP Donkor pledged the Ghana Police Service’s ongoing support for the national cybersecurity agenda, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration with stakeholders both locally and globally. “We are committed to protecting the digital well-being of our nation and ensuring that Ghana remains safe, secure, and ready for the future,” she said. The 2025 edition of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month will feature public education campaigns, school outreach programmes, and strategic dialogues across all regions to promote digital safety, combat cybercrime, and build trust in Ghana’s digital transformation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Mr. Simon Madjie, has called on stakeholders across government, industry, and civil society to prioritize cybersecurity as a cornerstone of national development and economic resilience. Delivering his welcome remarks at the official media launch of the 2025 National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM), Mr. Madjie stated: “Together, let us champion cybersecurity so that Ghana remains a secure and competitive investment destination and a continental leader in innovation.” The event, held at the GIPC Auditorium in Accra on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, brought together policymakers, security experts, academics, and media representatives under the theme “Building a Safe, Informed and Accountable Digital Space.” Mr. Madjie emphasized that as Ghana accelerates its digital transformation agenda, it must also confront increasingly sophisticated cyber threats that have the potential to derail progress. “Cybersecurity is no longer just a technical concern—it is a national economic priority,” he said. "It protects livelihoods, supports innovation, and preserves Ghana’s reputation as a safe and competitive investment destination.” Citing global data, Mr. Madjie pointed to a 2025 World Bank review, which projects the global cost of cybercrime to reach US$10.5 trillion annually—representing about 9.1% of global GDP. Closer to home, he noted the INTERPOL Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report, which estimates over US$3 billion in cyber-related losses across Africa from 2019 to 2025. He applauded recent international operations that led to the recovery of nearly US$100 million from cybercriminals in August 2025 but stressed that this figure barely scratches the surface of annual losses due to cybercrime. “Beyond the financial implications, these attacks disrupt markets, threaten critical national infrastructure, and erode public trust in the digital economy,” he warned. Despite the challenges, Mr. Madjie highlighted Ghana’s achievements in cybersecurity, referencing the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Ghana earned a Tier 1 ranking with a score of 99.27%, placing it among just 46 countries worldwide and only five in Africa recognized as global role models in cybersecurity development. He praised this progress but warned against complacency, stressing the need for continued investment in infrastructure, skills, innovation, and public–private collaboration to stay ahead of evolving threats “We must view cybersecurity not as a cost but as a strategic investment,” he stated. “One that protects our digital assets and unlocks new opportunities for economic growth.” Mr. Madjie reaffirmed the GIPC’s commitment to supporting the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and other stakeholders in building a secure and resilient digital ecosystem. “As the world embraces deeper digital transformation, cybersecurity must be at the heart of Ghana’s strategy,” he affirmed. “It is essential to sustaining investor confidence and ensuring resilient, inclusive economic growth.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti, has sounded the alarm over the rising tide of cyber threats facing Ghana, urging citizens, institutions, and stakeholders to step up vigilance and digital safety practices amid a sharp rise in online attacks and fraud. Speaking at the launch of the 2025 National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM), Mr. Agbeti provided a stark assessment of the country's current cybersecurity landscape. He revealed that the number of reported cyber incidents has seen a dramatic spike — climbing from 1,317 cases recorded in the first half of 2024 to 2,008 cases within the same period in 2025. The 52% year-on-year increase highlights the growing exposure of individuals and organisations to digital risks. “Online fraud alone accounted for a staggering 36% of all reported cases,” Mr. Agbeti stated. "This was followed by cyberbullying, which made up 25%, online blackmail at 14%, unauthorized access at 12%, and information disclosure incidents at 9%.” He stressed that these trends are not only threatening user privacy and mental wellbeing but also taking a significant toll on the economy. Financial losses linked to cybercrime reached GHS 14.9 million in the first half of 2025 — representing a 17% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, more than 94% of these losses were attributed to online fraud and impersonation. “These statistics underscore the urgency of our mission. The cyber threat landscape is rapidly evolving, and so must our approach to defending our digital space,” the CSA chief added. Mr. Agbeti’s remarks supported the call made earlier by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, who launched the awareness month with an emphatic appeal for shared responsibility in building a secure and accountable digital ecosystem. The NCSAM 2025 is themed "Empowering a Cyber-Ready Ghana: Safe Digital Practices for All" , and will feature a series of nationwide campaigns, stakeholder engagements, community outreaches, and training sessions aimed at equipping citizens with the knowledge and tools to stay safe online. The CSA Director-General urged all Ghanaians to actively participate in the awareness programs throughout October and to report any suspicious online activity through the Authority’s official channels. He reiterated that cybersecurity is a collective duty that requires proactive measures from individuals, businesses, and government alike. “Cybersecurity is no longer a technical issue reserved for experts. It’s a daily concern for everyone who uses a smartphone, an ATM, or even sends an email,” Mr. Agbeti emphasized. As the digital economy expands, experts warn that threats will continue to grow in sophistication and scale. Authorities are therefore pushing for stronger public-private collaboration, improved reporting systems, and enhanced cybersecurity education across all sectors of society. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana, Ing. Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, has underscored the critical role of academia in fortifying Ghana’s cybersecurity infrastructure, warning that the nation’s rapid digital transformation must be matched by proactive safety measures. Speaking at the launch of the 2025 National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) in Accra, Prof. Kaufmann said while digital technology is unlocking new opportunities across sectors—from mobile finance to telemedicine, online education to e-governance—the associated risks must not be underestimated. "Cyberspace is not inherently safe,” she stated. “The very technologies that connect us and drive progress can also be exploited to undermine trust, disrupt economies, and erode the rights and freedoms of citizens.” Prof. Kaufmann revealed she was recently a victim of online disinformation, after false news about her death began circulating on social media. :Just days ago, I was falsely reported dead online,” she shared, using the moment to highlight the real and personal dangers posed by misinformation in today’s digital age. Prof. Kaufmann called for stronger collaboration between government, industry, civil society, and academia to address emerging cyber threats. She highlighted three key areas where academic institutions are already making a significant impact: 1. Research – producing evidence-based insights to guide national cybersecurity policy and strategy. 2. Capacity Building – training the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, analysts, and digital forensics experts. 3. Innovation – developing local technological solutions to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. She noted that universities are not only hubs of knowledge but also incubators of innovation and critical thinking—resources that are essential in combating cybercrime, fake news, and technological abuse. “Ghana’s cybersecurity agenda must be grounded in science, shaped by data, and informed by local realities,” she said, urging policymakers to engage academic expertise in shaping regulations and response frameworks. The 2025 NCSAM, launched under the theme “Building a Safe, Informed, and Accountable Digital Space,” is focusing heavily on digital literacy, combating misinformation and deepfake content, and ensuring both institutions and individuals play their part in safeguarding the country’s cyberspace. Prof. Kaufmann concluded by encouraging young people, especially students, to consider careers in cybersecurity, describing it as a critical frontier for national security, economic stability, and democratic resilience. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George (MP), has issued a strong warning to cybercriminals exploiting foreign nationals for online fraud, vowing that law enforcement agencies are closing in on them. Speaking at the official launch of the 2025 National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Auditorium on Wednesday, the Minister declared: “Let me sound a warning to those exploiting foreign nationals to perpetrate cyber fraud: we are on your trail, and we will bring you to justice.” The Minister's remarks come amid rising concerns over Ghana’s growing exposure to cyber threats, despite the country’s increasing digital integration. Citing alarming statistics, Sam George revealed that Ghana recorded GHS 23.3 million in cybercrime-related financial losses in 2024, with an additional GHS 14.9 million lost in just the first half of 2025. The bulk of these cases, he said, involved online fraud, digital blackmail, and unauthorized access. He highlighted recent joint operations between the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, which resulted in a wave of arrests: 39 suspects apprehended in Tema last month, and 65 cybercrime-related arrests between May and July 2025, many of which were connected to sophisticated scams targeting foreigners. The 2025 NCSAM is being held under the theme “Building a Safe, Informed, and Accountable Digital Space”, with a focus on combating misinformation, disinformation, and deepfake technology, as well as enhancing individual and institutional responsibility in cyberspace. Hon. George referenced DataReportal’s 2025 Digital Report, which indicates that Ghana now has over 24.3 million internet users—representing 70% penetration—and ranks 15th globally in social media adoption, with 7.95 million active identities.  He stressed that while digital growth offers immense opportunity, it also provides a playground for criminal networks. To bolster digital safety frameworks, the Minister announced that his Ministry is working on amendments to the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) to ensure that Ghana’s regulatory environment keeps pace with evolving threats. He also praised the media for its role in raising awareness and called for greater collaboration in the fight against cybercrime: “This campaign cannot succeed without your active participation. The media must help educate the public about online exploitation, cyberbullying, and fraud,” he added. The month-long campaign is expected to feature public education drives, workshops, school outreach programmes, and collaborative initiatives with law enforcement, private sector partners, and civil society. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghanaian Musician and Ambassador for the 2025 National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Ayigbe Edem, has issued a passionate call to action, warning that cybercrime is on the rise and urging all citizens to remain vigilant and informed. Speaking at the official launch of the awareness month, Edem described the current cybersecurity landscape as “alarming,” stressing the urgent need for a concerted national effort to combat online threats. “Cybercrime is growing rapidly, and it’s important we understand that no one is immune,” Edem stated. “We must all equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools to protect our digital lives.” He revealed that a series of nationwide activities would run from October 1 to 31, including public education campaigns, regional awareness drives, and zonal competitions. Winners of previous editions of the competitions will also face off this year to reinforce public engagement. Edem emphasized that cyber safety is a shared responsibility, not one limited to tech experts or government authorities. “Let’s remember to always verify information before sharing it. Don’t misinform or disinform. Be careful online,” he advised. “Use the cybersecurity shortcode *292# to report any suspicious activity or incidents. The Cyber Security Authority has a 24/7 team ready to respond.” The ambassador also called on media outlets to actively support the campaign by disseminating accurate and timely information across all platforms, including in local dialects, to reach those who may not understand English. “We need to ensure that our brothers and sisters in the rural areas also understand why they must not share passwords, click suspicious links, or give out their WhatsApp verification codes.” Sharing a personal experience, Edem disclosed that he had been targeted in a cybercrime attempt, but avoided falling victim due to his awareness and understanding of such tactics. “I was once contacted by a strange number linked to a school platform asking for my WhatsApp code. I didn’t fall for it because I was informed. Recently, someone also tried to scam me under the guise of being from MTN,” he revealed. The 2025 National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, under the theme "Secure Ghana, Stay Safe Online", aims to empower citizens to protect themselves and others in an increasingly digital society. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith