In a sweeping move to tighten regulations and bring sanity to Ghana’s mining sector, the government has announced a new directive requiring all machinery used for mining activities to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by August 1, 2025. The policy, which forms part of broader reforms aimed at sanitizing the mining industry, was disclosed in a statement signed by the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, and copied to all media houses on Tuesday. According to the statement, failure to register mining equipment by the stated deadline will result in confiscation by the State. The government has tasked the Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with the DVLA, to begin full-scale enforcement of the directive starting August 2, 2025. "The Ghana Police Service and the DVLA have been directed to rigorously enforce this directive from 2nd August 2025 onward," the statement read. The Ministry of the Interior emphasized that the new policy is aimed at streamlining operations in the mining sector, curbing illegal mining activities, and enhancing internal security. Targeting Illegal Mining and Unregulated Machinery The directive is widely seen as part of the government’s intensified fight against galamsey (illegal small-scale mining), which has led to widespread environmental degradation, water pollution, and loss of life in mining communities across the country. By mandating registration of all mining machinery, authorities hope to monitor the movement and usage of heavy-duty equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and tipper trucks—many of which are believed to be used in unlicensed mining operations. Call for Compliance The Ministry urged all stakeholders—especially mining companies, small-scale miners, and equipment owners—to comply with the directive within the stipulated time frame. > “The general public, especially those who use mining machinery, are advised to take note and comply with the directive,” the Minister stated. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to promoting internal security and maintaining law and order across the country. This latest directive comes amidst increased public pressure on the government to take decisive action to address illegal mining and its associated consequences. Background Ghana’s mining sector, while a key contributor to the economy, has been plagued by issues of illegal operations, lack of transparency, and inadequate enforcement of regulations. Past efforts, including the deployment of anti-galamsey task forces, have yielded mixed results. With this new directive, the government appears to be shifting towards a more systemic and traceable approach to monitoring mining machinery and operators across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Office of Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has strongly denied reports suggesting that the former president is attempting to interfere with the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) upcoming National Delegates Conference scheduled for July 19, 2025. In a press statement dated July 14, 2025, and signed by his office, Akufo-Addo described the claims, which were published by Otec FM Ghana and GhanaWeb, as “completely false.” The reports alleged that the former president had sought to overturn the party’s decision on early primaries and was lobbying for a postponement of the conference. However, the statement emphasized that Akufo-Addo, who is currently out of the country, “has not made any such requests on the party either by a petition or any other means.” The statement further suggested that the publications in question may have been motivated by ulterior motives, saying, “Clearly, those behind these publications have an agenda of their own, which has nothing to do with improving the fortunes of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).” The clarification comes at a crucial time for the governing party as it prepares for its national conference, where key decisions about leadership and the party's future direction will be made. The former president, who handed over power in January 2025, has largely kept a low profile since leaving office. His office’s swift response to the reports is seen as an effort to maintain party unity and prevent further speculation as the NPP heads toward the 2024 general elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has announced the appointment of Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni as its new Acting Chief Executive Officer, effective Monday, July 14, 2025. Prof. Opuni, who previously served as the Board Chairman of the FDA, takes over from Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, who has led the Authority since 2017. Dr. Darko was recently appointed as the Director General of the Africa Medicines Agency (AMA), marking a significant step forward for Ghana’s leadership in continental health regulation. A statement issued by the FDA congratulated Prof. Opuni on his new role and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the institution in fulfilling its core mandate of ensuring public health and safety. “The FDA extends its warmest congratulations to Prof. Opuni on his appointment and looks forward to his leadership in advancing the Authority’s mission,” the statement read. Prof. Opuni is widely respected in the medical and regulatory community and is expected to bring a wealth of experience and continuity to the Authority during this transition period. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Defence and Interior, James Agalga, has emphasized the Committee’s commitment to supporting the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) in its mandate to safeguard the country’s borders and national security. Speaking during the Committee’s visit to the GIS Headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, Mr. Agalga outlined the purpose of the visit as part of their oversight responsibility over the Ministry of the Interior, which includes the GIS. He highlighted the evolving dynamics within Parliament, where new members have joined following the last election, resulting in a fresh team for the Committee. “This is a friendly visit to interact with you and understand the progress you’ve made, the challenges you face, and how we can better support your mission,” Mr. Agalga said. He pointed out that the Committee’s role is not only to offer praise but to provide constructive criticism where necessary to ensure that the GIS continues to grow in its capacity to secure the nation’s borders. “Sometimes, criticism is necessary to push for better results. When we criticize, it’s always in a constructive manner. Our aim is to help you become better in fulfilling your responsibilities,” he emphasized. Mr. Agalga also acknowledged the successes of the GIS in recent times and noted that new challenges had arisen, necessitating ongoing collaboration and dialogue. He assured the GIS management that the Committee would continue to work hand-in-hand with the Service to enhance peace and security in Ghana. “The work you do is crucial, especially at our frontiers. We attach great importance to it, and that’s why we are here today,” Mr. Agalga said, expressing gratitude for the warm reception that the Committee had received from the GIS during previous visits. On his part, Deputy Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Select Committee on Defence and Interior, Kofi Amankwa-Manu called for a depoliticized approach to national security, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the safety and stability of Ghana over partisan interests. “Security should never be politicized,” Mr. Amankwa-Manu stressed. “When the house falls, it falls on all of us. That is why, as members of this Committee, we strive to minimize political interference and focus on the shared goal of protecting our country.” He acknowledged the pivotal role the GIS plays in Ghana’s security architecture, especially in safeguarding the nation’s porous borders amidst growing regional and global threats. “Immigration officers are often seen only through the lens of statistics—figures and data—but it’s important we come here to understand the people behind the numbers,” he said. "When we speak to the figures in Parliament, we must know the human stories, the sacrifices, and the challenges behind them.” Mr. Amankwa-Manu reaffirmed the Committee’s intention to listen, learn, and lend support. He echoed the sentiments of the Committee Chair, Hon. James Agalga, emphasizing the importance of constructive criticism in strengthening institutions like the GIS. “This visit is not just symbolic. We are here to hear your concerns and understand your needs. That’s the only way we can genuinely help you fulfill your mandate,” he added. Taking his turn, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, expressed deep appreciation to the Parliamentary Select Committee on Defence and Interior for its continued support to the Service over the years. "We are indeed happy to welcome you to our premises today. It’s a visit we’ve long anticipated, though we had to reschedule once due to other pressing engagements. We are grateful that you are here with us now," Mr. Amadu said in his welcome address. He acknowledged the strong working relationship that exists between the GIS and the Committee, noting that it has been instrumental in pushing legislative instruments, budgetary approvals, and policy decisions beneficial to national security and border control. "As someone who served on the Management team from 2017 to 2021, I’ve been part of several engagements with your Committee and can testify to the immense support you’ve offered—especially behind the scenes—during target hearings and when laying supplementary legislation before Parliament," he stated. According to Mr. Amadu, the GIS is currently undergoing key reforms aimed at strengthening its mandate to protect Ghana’s borders and enhance internal security. He hinted at efforts to “fully democratise all our processes and improve troop morale,” stressing the need for continued collaboration with Parliament to achieve strategic transformation. He also assured the Committee of a comprehensive presentation, which would offer insight into the Service’s current operations, major challenges, and opportunities for growth. The visit allowed the Committee members to engage directly with the GIS leadership and discuss its operations, future plans, and key priorities. It also provided an opportunity for the Committee to offer guidance and express their support for the GIS’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national security. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a development for paediatric health care in Ghana and across West Africa, the country has officially launched its first-ever Master of Science (MSc) program in Healthcare Play Therapy. The program, designed to train professionals in therapeutic support for children undergoing serious medical treatment, was unveiled at a ceremony held on Friday at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana, Legon. Speaking at the event, Augusta Asiedu-Lartey, Ghana’s first certified Child Life Specialist and a key player in paediatric oncology care at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, shared her personal journey and the significance of this milestone. Backed by World Child Cancer, Ms. Asiedu-Lartey underwent her first child life training in Kenya in 2019. Inspired by the progress she witnessed there, she returned to Ghana with a mission: to replicate and institutionalize child-focused therapeutic support in local hospitals. “Child life—sometimes called play therapy in the UK—is about using therapeutic play, preparation, and emotional support to help children cope with illness, injury, and hospitalisation,” she explained. "Play is not just recreation for a child. It is their natural language and one of the most powerful tools for processing trauma.” The MSc program is a critical response to the growing need for psychosocial support in paediatric care, especially among children facing cancer and other life-altering conditions. Currently, Ghana has only three qualified Child Life Specialists, a startling figure considering the number of children in need of such services. “Children are often pulled from their normal lives, taken away from school and friends, and placed into unfamiliar, frightening hospital environments,” Asiedu-Lartey said. "With smells of antiseptics, cries from other patients, and painful procedures, the hospital can become a very traumatic space for a child. That is where child life intervention becomes life-changing.” The specialist detailed how play therapy helps children understand their medical procedures through role play, medical simulations, and guided storytelling. This, she emphasized, reduces anxiety, improves cooperation during treatment, and builds emotional resilience—often determining the difference between compliance and resistance in long-term medical care. Ms. Asiedu-Lartey also shared heartwarming stories from her work. One child, initially terrified of surgery, overcame her fear through guided preparation involving storytelling and role play using a book titled “My Scar”, authored by Dr. Imanola Omako and Dr. Lee Otego. Another child, who once needed sedation for every procedure, was later able to go through treatment calmly—thanks to emotional mentoring from a fellow childhood cancer survivor. “These examples show how powerful therapeutic play can be. It provides hope, strength, and understanding, making the hospital less scary and more supportive,” she said. However, she acknowledged the challenges ahead: a shortage of trained specialists, limited awareness among medical staff about the role of child life, and the urgent need for institutional training structures—which the new MSc program aims to address. “This program will strengthen our ability to reach more children in more hospitals with consistent, high-quality psychosocial care,” she affirmed. Ms. Asiedu-Lartey thanked World Child Cancer and Amgen Biotechnology for their unwavering support in making the program a reality. She also praised Prof. Nana Aba Osei-Boansi and other medical partners for championing the inclusion of child life specialists in clinical settings. “Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury—it is a necessity for healing,” she concluded, echoing the words of Kay Redfield Jamison. With the MSc in Healthcare Play Therapy now in place, Ghana takes a bold step in redefining childhood cancer care—not just through medicine, but through the healing power of play. Global biotechnology leader Amgen has pledged its full support for the newly launched Master of Science in Play Therapy program, the first of its kind in Africa. The initiative, backed by Amgen and World Child Cancer, is designed to strengthen the emotional and psychological well-being of children living with cancer—underscoring the importance of holistic care in low-resource settings. “Medicines are essential, but they are only one component of a complex health system,” said Sean Lybrand, Executive Director of Access to Healthcare at Amgen. “Supporting systems that enable children to emotionally and psychologically navigate their journey through cancer treatment is just as critical.” Mr. Lybrand recounted the story of Gabriel, a Ghanaian high school student and childhood cancer survivor, who once spent weeks isolated in a hospital room, surrounded by silence and IV drips. His only human interaction came from doctors. "Gabriel’s biggest challenge wasn’t just the illness—it was the loneliness, the boredom, and the lack of emotional engagement,” Lybrand said. “What children like Gabriel need is not just treatment, but connection, care, and hope.” The MSc in Play Therapy program aims to train a new generation of professionals to provide such care. Based at the University of Ghana’s Psychology Department, the program will prepare specialists to use therapeutic play techniques to reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve treatment outcomes for pediatric patients. Amgen has committed to sponsoring the first cohort of students. “We are invested in the long-term,” Lybrand affirmed. "From supporting oncology nursing education in Sub-Saharan Africa to facilitating early exposure to science for students, our mission is to build resilient health systems from the ground up.” The launch comes at a time when Ghana is expanding its role in the global fight against childhood cancer. It was recently selected as one of six new countries to join the World Health Organization and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s global platform for access to pediatric oncology medicines. The platform will ensure uninterrupted access to essential medications for children battling cancer across the country. Lybrand praised the efforts of local champions like Professor Lorna Renner, who played a key role in Ghana’s inclusion on the WHO-St. Jude platform. “Thanks to advocates like Professor Renner, Ghana is now part of a global movement to ensure no child dies unnecessarily from cancer,” he said. Highlighting the broader significance of the new MSc program, Lybrand noted, “This is not just about play. It’s about survival, healing, and preparing children for life after cancer. It’s about telling every child in the ward—you matter, your future matters, and we’re here for you.” World Child Cancer representative, Adwoa Pinamang Boateng Desu, on her part, highlighted the stark contrast in childhood cancer survival rates between high-income countries—where survival exceeds 80%—and less than 50% in regions like Ghana. "Our vision is a world where every child with cancer, no matter where they live, has access to equitable treatment, survival, and quality of life," she said. Since 2010, the organization has expanded its footprint across Africa, Asia, and Central America. In Ghana, World Child Cancer currently supports 13 programs, including three major treatment centers and six shared care centers across the country. These facilities, located in Tamale, Kumasi, Accra, and other regional capitals, provide comprehensive care and act as referral hubs for childhood cancer patients. "Our work in Ghana is donor-driven, and we are especially grateful to our major partners including Amgen Biotechnology, the Swiss Alabama Children’s Foundation, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), SNF, and other valued sponsors,” she stated. Madam Desu outlined the organization’s four core strategic pillars: early and accurate diagnosis, treatment and care, child well-being and family support, and advocacy. She explained that World Child Cancer provides extensive training to healthcare professionals—doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and radiologists—to ensure timely and effective diagnosis and treatment of pediatric cancers. In partnership with institutions like the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons and international training partners such as the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh and Boston Children's Hospital, the organization continues to build capacity through on-the-job training and knowledge-sharing visits. She also emphasized the emotional toll of cancer on children and families, pointing out that the organization provides direct financial aid to cover diagnostic tests, treatment, transport, and nutrition. “We provide ready-to-use therapeutic foods, counseling services, play items, and educational materials. We ensure children continue to learn, heal, and grow even while undergoing treatment,” she noted. One of the mcollaboration with Lifeline for Child Cancer, World Child Cancer provides income-generating activities—such as weaving and hairdressing—for mothers and guardians who must stay with their children during long hospital stays. This helps families remain economically active and emotionally supported during treatment. Madam Desu also proudly announced a scholarship initiative for survivors of childhood cancer. “We offer educational and vocational scholarships to help survivors reintegrate into society. It's a holistic model—we treat, we support, and we empower,” she added. She concluded by acknowledging the pioneering MSc. Health Care Play Therapy program as a groundbreaking step toward integrating psychosocial care into pediatric cancer treatment and expressed gratitude to all partners for helping shape a future where every child with cancer gets a fighting chance. Taking his turn, Dr. Hafez Adam Taher, Director of Human Resources for Health at the Ministry, commended the University of Ghana, University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), World Child Cancer, and other key partners for pioneering the program. He noted that the initiative fills a critical gap in the country’s healthcare system by addressing the emotional and psychological needs of children, particularly those battling serious illnesses like cancer. “This programme enhances resilience, reduces anxiety and emotional distress, and fosters better communication between young patients, caregivers, and health professionals,” Dr. Taher said. He emphasized that the program aligns with the Ministry’s strategic goals, including integrating mental health at all levels of care, developing a child-sensitive health workforce, and promoting compassionate, people-centered services in line with the Universal Health Coverage agenda and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The Ministry has supported the initiative from its early stages—working with World Child Cancer on field assessments, facilitating accreditation, and coordinating with the Ghana Health Service and Psychology Council to ensure smooth integration of graduates into the health workforce. Dr. Taher also expressed appreciation to Amgen Biotechnology for its sponsorship, urging for an expansion in training opportunities for Ghanaian professionals. “The Minister of Health fully endorses this programme and is committed to scaling it up nationwide through policy, partnerships, and resource mobilization,” he added. "Together, we will transform child mental health care across Ghana.” The program will train professionals to provide therapeutic play interventions in pediatric wards, cancer clinics, rehabilitation centers, and community health facilities—ensuring that children receive not just medical treatment, but also dignity, empathy, and emotional support. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The parliamentary rerun election in the Ablekuma North Constituency on Friday, July 11, 2025, was marred by scenes of violence, including a brutal attack on former Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister, Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson. Shocking footage obtained by Puretvonline shows the former Awutu Senya East MP being physically assaulted by unidentified thugs. The video captures Koomson on the ground, struggling to rise as she is kicked and beaten by a group of men. The assault was eventually stopped after police officers intervened and rescued her from the attackers. The motive behind the violent act remains unknown, but it has triggered widespread condemnation from political observers, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens, many of whom are calling for justice and improved security measures at polling stations. The Ablekuma North rerun, which covers 19 polling stations, was necessitated by irregularities during the December 2024 general elections. The outcome is expected to play a key role in shaping the composition of Ghana’s next Parliament. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service has interdicted an officer caught in a viral video assaulting a GHOne TV journalist during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North Constituency. Sharing his ordeal, the reporter said he was performing his duties when a police inspector unexpectedly ordered him to vacate the premises, even though several other journalists were present. “I showed him my ID card to prove I was a journalist and explained why I couldn’t leave — but he slapped me,” the journalist narrated. In a press release dated July 11, 2025, the Police said the officer has been withdrawn from election duties and referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigations in line with internal disciplinary procedures. The Ghana Police Service assured the public of a thorough investigation and pledged to update the public as the case progresses. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Traditional Council has officially disassociated itself from all activities of Eze Dr. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, who has been presenting himself as the King of the Igbo community in Ghana. In a strongly worded press release issued on July 9, 2025, following an emergency meeting chaired by the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Council stated unequivocally that it does not recognize any individual as a “King of the Igbos” within the Ga State. The statement, signed by Evelyn Amewotse, Registrar for the President, outlined a series of resolutions reached by the Council: The Ga Traditional Council completely disassociates itself from all traditional and cultural activities being organized by Eze Dr. Ihenetu. The Council emphasized that no such recognition has ever been granted to Dr. Ihenetu or anyone else as a traditional Igbo ruler within Ga lands. The Council reiterated that official recognition of any traditional figure is contingent on their inclusion in the National Register of Chiefs, in accordance with statutory provisions. The Council directed Eze Dr. Ihenetu to cease and desist from parading himself as a king or performing any traditional functions within the Ga State. Paramount and divisional chiefs purportedly installed by Dr. Ihenetu have also been ordered to cease any traditional representations or claims to authority within Ga territory. All traditional and cultural festivals organized under the banner of promoting Igbo culture and led by Dr. Ihenetu have been ordered to stop with immediate effect. The Ga Traditional Council reaffirmed its commitment to peace and unity, stating that the Ga people welcome all ethnic groups and nationals into their communities — provided they respect Ga traditions and customs. The Council, however, cautioned that any attempt to disregard its directives or disrupt public order would be met with legal consequences. "Our goodwill and respect for other tribes and people of other nations should not be taken for granted," the statement concluded. This announcement comes amid growing public attention surrounding Dr. Ihenetu’s public appearances and events in Accra, which have reportedly included cultural pageantries and the installation of traditional titles. The Council's firm stance underscores its intent to preserve the sanctity of Ga traditions and maintain social harmony across the capital. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Electoral Commission (EC), Mrs. Jean Mensa, has extended her best wishes to the two parliamentary contestants ahead of the highly anticipated rerun of elections in Ablekuma North Constituency, scheduled for Friday, July 11, 2025. Speaking on behalf of the EC Chair, Jean Mensa, Deputy EC Chair, Bossman Asare assured the public of the Commission’s unwavering commitment to conducting a free, fair, and transparent process. “We wish the two contestants the best of luck at the polls tomorrow,” she stated, emphasizing the Commission's desire to bring a conclusive end to the protracted electoral process in the constituency. The Ablekuma North parliamentary results, still unresolved nearly seven months after the December 2024 general elections, have been a source of legal and political contention. Following a High Court ruling on January 4, 2025, instructing the EC to complete the collation of results in four constituencies — including Ablekuma North — the Commission successfully completed three. However, a series of delays, fire outbreaks, and security concerns hampered efforts in Ablekuma North. Out of 281 polling stations, collation was completed for 278. The remaining three, and a broader dispute over 37 scanned Pink Sheets — most of which were supplied by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) — led the Commission to engage with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and NPP in efforts to reach a consensus. Ultimately, the EC announced a rerun in 19 polling stations, based on the lack of verified confirmation from Presiding Officers for those locations. The other 18 polling station results — part of the 37 scanned Pink Sheets — had been verified and authenticated by Presiding Officers and were therefore retained. Mr. Asare expressed disappointment over the lack of consensus between the two major parties but reaffirmed the EC’s independence and its legal mandate to act in the interest of democracy. She further noted that the Ghana Police Service and the National Election Security Taskforce (NEST) have pledged full support to ensure the safety of voters, officials, and election materials throughout the rerun process. “The aftermath of the 7th December election and attempts to complete the collation in 12 constituencies created fear among our staff and voters. We trust that the NEST will provide the needed security so we can vote and work in peace,” she added. As constituents in Ablekuma North prepare to cast their ballots in the 19 polling stations, the EC Chairperson urged all stakeholders to cooperate to ensure a peaceful and credible outcome. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana has officially unveiled a 15-member committee for its maiden food sport club, “The Food Bowl”, marking the country's bold entry into the global food sport industry. The club will spearhead Ghana’s participation in international culinary competitions, notably the prestigious World Food Championships (WFC), scheduled to take place from October 16–19, 2025, in Indianapolis, USA. The move positions Ghana at the forefront of a burgeoning sector that merges gastronomy with competitive sport, offering chefs, home cooks, and culinary teams a passport to global recognition. The Food Bowl will serve as a national platform to scout, train, and promote culinary talent from across the country. Ghana will debut at WFC in three major categories: Dessert, Bacon, and Sandwich. This historic milestone signals a broader agenda to showcase Ghanaian cuisine on a global stage, deepen food diplomacy, and stimulate culinary tourism. Steering Ghana’s Culinary Mission The newly formed committee is chaired by Mr. Kenneth Annang, Chief Operating Officer of Kenmerdes Group and Head of Public Relations for the initiative. The committee features a diverse blend of industry leaders and stakeholders drawn from government agencies, food and hospitality sectors, media, and sports. Key members include: Mrs. Mercy Y.A.A. Odoi and Mr. James Odoi Wilson (Okaikoi South Sub-Metro and NSA) Mr. Francisco Cofie Apenu, Team Captain and CEO of Cake Elements Dr. Francis Asare Mrs. Fafali Azaglo (Selasi Farms & Groceries) Chef Maame Serwaa Appiahene Gyamfi George Addo Jnr, BBC Sports Journalist Daniel Neequaye Kotey (Klala), Entertainment Host/Musician Mr. Enoch Worlanyo (Prof. E.K. Wallace), Asempa FM Broadcaster and WFC Judge Ms. Joyce Aku Menns and Alex Kobina Stonne, Media Representatives This committee is tasked with not only organizing local qualifiers and events but also developing a sustainable framework for competitive cooking in Ghana. Strategic Partnerships and Global Recognition The High Frontier, a Ghana-based international sports and food tourism agency, is leading the initiative in collaboration with the World Food Championships, ranked as the third-best food festival globally. The organization’s president, Ms. Annie Hiamey, is currently Ghana’s sole WFC-certified judge alongside Mr. Worlanyo, and is actively working toward securing Ghana’s exclusive national partnership with WFC. This partnership would grant Ghana rights to host WFC-certified qualifiers, train judges, license culinary products, and build nationally-endorsed teams, further deepening the country’s participation in the global food sport ecosystem. “Taking our style of food sport into other countries is one of the key growth initiatives for our mission,” said Mike McCloud, President and CEO of WFC. “We are excited about Ghana’s commitment and look forward to the unique flavors it will bring to the global competition.” Economic and Cultural Impact The move is expected to significantly boost Ghana’s sports tourism and hospitality sectors. With the potential to generate revenue, create jobs, and spotlight Ghanaian culinary heritage, stakeholders believe the initiative will become a signature event on the country’s tourism calendar. The High Frontier’s strategy to position Ghana as a culinary destination is backed by years of experience in curating global cultural events. By connecting chefs, brands, and fans across borders, the initiative aligns with broader national goals of capacity-building, brand positioning, and youth empowerment through creative industries. Looking Ahead With preparations underway, all eyes are on Team Ghana’s debut at the World Food Championships. The participation not only marks a historic first but also sets the tone for what could become one of Ghana’s most exciting contributions to the global sporting and cultural landscape. As Ms. Hiamey notes, “We’re not just taking food to the world—we’re building a legacy for Ghana’s culinary excellence and creative economy.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana has announced a bold policy shift aimed at revamping the country’s shea industry, with a phased ban on the export of raw shea nuts set to take effect by 2026. The move, which forms part of the Mahama administration’s renewed industrialisation agenda, is targeted at boosting local processing, enhancing value addition, and increasing Ghana’s stake in the lucrative global shea market. The announcement was made by Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives on Agriculture and Agribusiness, during the official press launch of the 2025 World Shea Expo in Accra. “The Mahama-led administration is taking bold policy steps to correct structural imbalances in the sector,” Dr. Otokunor said. “By 2026, the government will implement a phased ban on the export of raw shea nuts. Ghana must move from being a raw material exporter to a nation of value-added exports.” According to him, the decades-long reliance on exporting raw shea nuts has deprived the country of enormous economic benefits tied to processed shea products such as butter, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical derivatives. The new policy, he explained, would open the door for domestic processors to scale operations and enter high-value markets. “This ban will allow local processors to expand, build capacity, and develop export-ready brands that capture higher earnings in the international market,” he emphasized. Rehabilitating Buipe Shea Factory to Anchor Industrial Growth As part of government’s wider strategy to create a thriving shea industry, Dr. Otokunor revealed that major rehabilitation works are currently ongoing at the Buipe Shea Processing Factory in the Savannah Region. Once a flagship industrial facility in northern Ghana, the factory had been neglected for years. “Today, rehabilitation efforts are underway to revamp its operations. When fully operational, it will have the capacity to process over 60 metric tonnes of shea nuts annually and scale up to 180,000 metric tonnes under a 24-hour cycle,” he stated. He added that the factory will become a crucial hub for value addition in the sector, while generating between 300 and 1,000 direct jobs and over 10,000 indirect jobs. The facility is expected to drive the growth of smallholder shea cooperatives across the northern regions, reinforcing inclusive economic participation. Sustaining a Strategic National Resource Dr. Otokunor also drew attention to the ecological and economic importance of the shea tree, calling for its sustainable management and protection. He cautioned against the indiscriminate felling of shea trees, especially for firewood. “The shea tree is not merely a source of income; it is an ecological and economic treasure. It must be preserved and invested in wisely,” he said. “It takes nearly 20 years for a shea tree to reach full maturity — it is not a resource we can afford to misuse.” Global Eyes on Ghana Ahead of World Shea Expo 2025 The policy announcement comes ahead of the World Shea Expo 2025, a major industry event scheduled to take place in Tamale. The Expo is expected to attract a wide range of local and international stakeholders, including agribusiness investors, development partners, researchers, and government policymakers. The event will serve as a platform to promote opportunities within Ghana’s shea value chain and showcase the government’s commitment to making the country a regional hub for shea processing and export. A Strategic Economic Shift With the phased export ban, Ghana is taking a decisive step to transform its raw shea nut trade into a globally competitive, value-added industry. The policy aligns with broader efforts to diversify the country’s export base, improve foreign exchange earnings, and create sustainable livelihoods, particularly in the northern regions. Industry experts believe that if properly executed, the move could reposition Ghana as a global leader in high-quality, processed shea products, rather than a mere supplier of raw materials. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Brazil head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has been sentenced to one year in prison by a Spanish court after being found guilty of tax fraud relating to the 2014 fiscal year. The court determined that Ancelotti failed to properly declare income — particularly earnings from image rights — during his tenure at Real Madrid, resulting in a tax shortfall of €386,361.93. He has also been fined the same amount. The Spanish Prosecutor’s Office had accused Ancelotti of defrauding a total of €1,062,079 over the 2014 and 2015 tax years, citing irregularities in how he reported his earnings. While the court convicted him for 2014, he was acquitted of a separate offence tied to his 2015 image rights. Despite the prison sentence, Ancelotti is unlikely to serve actual jail time. Under Spanish law, non-violent first-time offenders with sentences under two years often receive suspended sentences or alternative penalties. The ruling does not affect Ancelotti’s current position as Brazil’s national team coach, but it casts a legal cloud over his leadership ahead of major international competitions. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith