The Northern Regional Police Command has launched investigations into the death of two women whose bodies were discovered in a room at Cab Hospitality Hotel in the Gbewa Residential Area of Tamale. In a statement signed by Mr. Wisdom Lavoe (DCOP), Northern Regional Commander, the Police said the incident occurred on Monday, August 3, 2026, after the hotel management alerted officers to the presence of the bodies. According to the statement, Police officers who responded to the report found the bodies of the two women, who are believed to be nationals of Benin. The bodies have since been conveyed to the Tamale Teaching Hospital Mortuary for preservation and post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. Mr. Lavoe said preliminary investigations are underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths, confirm the identities of the deceased, and liaise with the appropriate authorities to facilitate contact with their families. He further disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has deployed a special team comprising investigators, intelligence officers, and crime scene experts from the National Police Headquarters to support the Northern Regional Police Command in the ongoing investigations. The Northern Regional Commander appealed to members of the public with credible information that could assist the investigation to contact the Police through the emergency numbers 191 or 18555, or report to the nearest Police Station. Police say investigations remain ongoing. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu has disclosed that the proportion of Ghanaians who paid bribes increased to 18.0 percent during the second half of 2025, up from 14.3 percent in the first six months of the year, highlighting a deterioration in bribery experiences over the period. Speaking at the launch of the Governance Series Wave 3 Report in Accra, Dr. Iddrisu said the findings showed that requests for unofficial payments by public officials also surged significantly, with 69 percent of citizens who interacted with public officials between July and December 2025 reporting that they were asked to make extra payments for services they were already entitled to receive. "Over the last six months of 2025, the share who paid a bribe rose from 14.3 percent in the first half of the year to 18.0 percent in the second half" Requests for extra payment also jumped from 51 percent to 69 percent, indicating that the pressure now lies more with what officials demand than what citizens voluntarily offer," he stated. Dr. Iddrisu noted that while the second half of 2025 recorded a setback, the broader annual trend remained encouraging. Comparing the whole of 2025 with 2024, he said bribery incidence declined from 18.4 percent to 16.8 percent, even as more citizens accessed public services. According to him, interactions between citizens and public officials increased from 56 percent in 2024 to 72 percent in 2025, representing approximately 1.6 million additional contacts, yet fewer people ended up paying bribes over the full year. He further revealed that the proportion of citizens making repeated bribe payments—five or more times—fell sharply from 24 percent in Wave 2 to less than 4 percent in Wave 3, suggesting that bribery is becoming less of a routine occurrence. At the same time, the percentage of citizens who refused to pay bribes increased from 3.0 percent to 4.9 percent. The Government Statistician said corruption remained concentrated in a few high-contact public institutions, with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service continuing to record the highest bribery incidence. However, he noted that the situation improved, with reported bribery falling from 61.0 percent in 2024 to 53.6 percent in 2025. On citizen participation, Dr. Iddrisu said governance indicators also showed progress, as the proportion of Ghanaians who felt they had no influence over public decision-making declined from 42 percent in 2024 to 30 percent in 2025. Nevertheless, he observed that young people, the elderly and the unemployed continued to feel the least represented. He urged government agencies to deepen digitalisation of public services, publish official fees, strengthen complaint mechanisms and protect citizens who refuse to pay bribes. He also called on businesses to insist on official payment channels, while encouraging citizens to know official fees, reject illegal demands and report corrupt practices. Dr. Iddrisu stressed that the findings should serve as a basis for policy reforms, noting that evidence from previous Governance Series reports had already informed engagements with public institutions identified as high-risk for corruption. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, Esq, has described the partnership between the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment (MYDE) and the Design and Technology Institute (DTI) as “a strategic investment in Ghana’s future,” stressing that equipping young people with relevant skills and opportunities is critical to the country’s industrialisation and long-term economic transformation. Speaking at the signing of a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the President of DTI, Constance Elizabeth Swaniker, on Tuesday, August 4, Mr. Opare Addo said Ghana’s youthful population remains the nation’s greatest asset and that investing in their development would position the country for sustainable growth. He noted that many young Ghanaians continue to face limited employment opportunities, skills mismatch, inadequate access to information, weak technology and start-up support, and other socio-economic challenges. According to him, addressing these issues requires stronger collaboration between government and institutions with proven expertise in skills development and innovation. Under the agreement, MYDE will provide policy leadership and coordinate implementation through national youth development platforms, while DTI will leverage its expertise in competency-based training, curriculum innovation, workforce development and industry engagement. The partnership will expand access to technical and vocational education, structured internships, entrepreneurship programmes and digital skills training to better prepare young people for the demands of the modern labour market. A major component of the collaboration is the adoption of DTI’s Precision Quality™ framework, which promotes professionalism, productivity, workplace discipline, safety and quality consciousness. The initiative will also strengthen communication, leadership, teamwork, customer service, critical thinking, emotional intelligence and financial literacy, while providing mentorship, coaching and business incubation to encourage youth entrepreneurship. Mr. Opare Addo said the partnership would complement existing government youth initiatives rather than duplicate them, adding that both institutions would work together to mobilise support from government, the private sector, development partners and international organisations to expand youth-focused employment and skills programmes. President of the Design and Technology Institute, Constance Elizabeth Swaniker, underscored the importance of closer collaboration between industry and government to bridge the gap between education and the labour market. She said DTI remains committed to delivering competency-based training that produces graduates with both technical expertise and the professional attitudes required by employers, noting that the partnership would help build an industry-ready workforce capable of driving Ghana’s industrial growth. Also speaking at the ceremony, the General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, Rev. Dr. Cyril G. K. Fayose, described youth development as a shared national responsibility, saying the Church and the State must work together to build a generation that is skilled, patriotic, morally grounded and prepared for the digital age. He said Ghana’s growing youth population presents a significant demographic advantage that must be harnessed through deliberate investment in education, skills development, entrepreneurship and ethical leadership. While acknowledging the opportunities created by technology, Rev. Dr. Fayose cautioned that digital advancement must be accompanied by integrity, patriotism and responsible citizenship. Highlighting what he described as five priority areas for national youth development, Rev. Dr. Fayose called for the promotion of ethical digital leadership, deliberate investment in Ghana’s demographic dividend, expanded access to digital education, strengthened Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and increased youth participation in governance and constitutional reforms. He further pledged the Christian Council of Ghana’s commitment to supporting government through its nationwide network of churches, schools, health institutions and community structures to advance civic education, leadership development and skills training, expressing confidence that sustained collaboration would produce a generation of young people equipped to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s sustainable development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Priscilla Dodoo

The Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Divine Selase Agbeti, has underscored the critical role of community media in strengthening Ghana's cybersecurity landscape, describing journalists as frontline partners in the fight against cybercrime. Speaking at the launch of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project (NCMCCBP) in Accra on Monday, Mr. Agbeti said Ghana's rapid digital transformation has created immense opportunities for economic growth and innovation, but has also exposed citizens and institutions to increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Addressing participants under the theme, "Advancing Ghana's National Security and Cyber Defence Objectives Through Community Media Strengthening for Cybercrime Awareness and Digital Communication," he noted that cybercrime has evolved into a major national security concern affecting ordinary Ghanaians on a daily basis. According to him, crimes such as mobile money fraud, online investment scams, romance fraud, identity theft, sextortion, business email compromise and impersonation have become widespread, with many of these offences being orchestrated by organised criminal networks operating across international borders. Mr. Agbeti revealed that the CSA, working closely with the Ghana Police Service, National Security, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), the National Signals Bureau (NSB), the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) and international partners, has intensified coordinated operations against cybercriminal networks. He stressed that recent arrests and prosecutions demonstrate that cybercrime is organised crime, requiring equally coordinated national and international collaboration to combat effectively. The Director-General emphasised that while security agencies continue to disrupt criminal activities, public education remains one of the most effective preventive tools, making the media an indispensable partner in safeguarding Ghana's cyberspace. "The media does far more than report cyber incidents. The media prevents them," he said. He explained that a single radio discussion delivered in a local language could prevent thousands of citizens from falling victim to fraud, while a television interview exposing emerging scams could stop criminal schemes before they spread nationwide. Mr. Agbeti therefore called for the development of a media community that possesses a sound understanding of cybersecurity issues and is capable of communicating them accurately, responsibly and confidently to the public. Beyond financial crimes, he warned that cyber threats are increasingly intersecting with organised crime, violent extremism and terrorism, with criminal and extremist groups exploiting digital platforms to spread propaganda, recruit followers, raise funds and manipulate public opinion. He said this places an even greater responsibility on journalists to inform the public without creating unnecessary panic, expose harmful activities without amplifying criminal or extremist narratives, and educate citizens on how to recognise and resist online manipulation. According to him, the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project is designed not merely to teach cybersecurity concepts but to establish a nationwide network of journalists who will become trusted advocates for cybersecurity awareness across Ghana. He explained that these journalists would help translate complex technical information into practical advice that citizens in both urban centres and remote communities can easily understand and apply in their daily digital lives. "Our vision is simple: every Ghanaian should have the knowledge to stay safe online," he stated. Mr. Agbeti also described the planned establishment of a Cyber Security Press Corps as a landmark initiative that will strengthen responsible reporting on cyber issues across the country. He said the specialised network would comprise journalists who understand cyber threats, appreciate their implications for national security, and provide timely, accurate and responsible reporting whenever new cyber incidents emerge. According to him, members of the proposed press corps would play a vital role in educating the public on the significance of cybercrime investigations, helping citizens understand why arrests matter, and warning communities about emerging scams before more victims are affected. He encouraged participants to fully embrace the training programme by asking questions, building expertise and becoming credible sources of cybersecurity information within their respective communities. The CSA Director-General expressed appreciation to the Africa Center for Digital Transformation for partnering to implement the initiative, and thanked the Embassy of the Czech Republic for supporting efforts to strengthen Ghana's digital resilience and national security. He also commended the country's security agencies, law enforcement institutions and development partners for their continued collaboration in protecting Ghana's cyberspace. Mr. Agbeti stressed that cybersecurity is a shared national responsibility that extends beyond government institutions. He said stronger collaboration among government, law enforcement agencies, industry, civil society and the media would significantly reduce opportunities for cybercriminals while making Ghana's digital ecosystem safer and more resilient. "Together, let us build a cyber-aware, cyber-resilient and cyber-secure Ghana," he urged. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, has described cybersecurity as the cornerstone of Ghana's digital transformation agenda, saying the country's ambition to build a thriving digital econoy depends on citizens' confidence in the safety and reliability of digital systems. Speaking at the launch of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project in Accra, Mr Sukparu said digital transformation is not merely about deploying technology but about creating opportunities for every Ghanaian through improved public service delivery, stronger businesses, expanded financial inclusion and enhanced economic competitiveness. He said the government, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, is pursuing an ambitious digital transformation agenda that seeks to harness technology as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth, job creation, improved governance and national development. "Our objective is clear. We are building a digital economy that is secure, innovative, inclusive and globally competitive—one that empowers citizens and ensures that no Ghanaian is left behind in the digital age," he said. The Deputy Minister stressed, however, that no digital transformation programme can succeed without trust. According to him, citizens must be confident that their personal information is protected, businesses must have assurance that digital transactions are secure, investors must trust Ghana's digital environment, and public institutions must guarantee that the digital services increasingly relied upon by millions of Ghanaians remain reliable, resilient and accessible. "Trust is the currency of every successful digital economy, and that trust is built through effective cybersecurity," he stated. Mr Sukparu said cybersecurity has evolved beyond a technical issue to become an economic, governance, national security, business and development imperative. He warned that without a secure digital environment, innovation cannot flourish, digital inclusion cannot be sustained, and confidence in the country's digital economy will be undermined. To address these challenges, he said government is investing in a broad range of initiatives that extend beyond digital infrastructure to include digital skills development, innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), regulatory reforms and cybersecurity. He explained that these investments are designed to complement one another in creating a resilient and globally competitive digital economy. Highlighting Ghana's Artificial Intelligence Strategy, the Deputy Minister said government has deliberately adopted a balanced approach that gives equal priority to innovation, responsibility, transparency, accountability and security. According to him, the strategy aims to ensure that Ghana harnesses the transformative potential of AI to improve lives while safeguarding the rights, privacy and confidence of citizens. Mr Sukparu also pointed to the ongoing implementation of the Ghana Digitalization Project, describing it as one of government's flagship interventions to strengthen the country's digital ecosystem. He said the project is modernising public service delivery, expanding digital connectivity, improving access to digital services and strengthening national digital infrastructure, thereby creating greater opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs and citizens to participate meaningfully in the digital economy. The Deputy Minister further disclosed that the Ministry continues to engage stakeholders across the communications and broadcasting sectors to promote a media landscape that is professional, credible, sustainable and responsive to the changing demands of the digital age. He said a vibrant and responsible media remains indispensable to democratic governance, informed public discourse and national development. Despite the progress being made, Mr Sukparu cautioned that investments in digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, digital skills and innovation would not deliver their full benefits without robust cybersecurity measures. "Cybersecurity is the thread that binds together every aspect of Ghana's digital transformation journey," he said, reaffirming government's commitment to building a secure, resilient and trusted digital ecosystem capable of supporting long-term economic growth and national development. He urged journalists and media practitioners to play an active role in promoting cybersecurity awareness, describing the media as an essential partner in educating the public, countering misinformation and supporting the country's digital transformation agenda. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Africa Centre for Digital Transformation (ACDT), in partnership with the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), the Government of the Czech Republic, and the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, has launched the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project to equip journalists and media practitioners with the knowledge and skills to effectively report on cybersecurity issues. Speaking at the launch, Emmanuel Agyare, Board Chairman of Africa Centre for Digital Transformation (ACDT), noted that cyber incidents are increasingly driven by technology and are often accompanied by the rapid spread of inaccurate information during and after attacks. He stressed that harmful online activities frequently go undetected until significant damage has already occurred, making the media's role in cybersecurity awareness more critical than ever. According to Mr. Agyare, editors, journalists, bloggers, and digital content creators are key stakeholders in the fight against cybercrime, yet their contributions are often overlooked. The initiative therefore seeks to build a cyber-informed media capable of promoting national resilience against digital threats. The project will focus on four key objectives: Strengthening the technical, ethical, and operational capacity of community media practitioners to accurately report on cybercrime, digital threats, and national cybersecurity incidents. Enhancing public understanding of cyber threats, online safety, and digital risk mitigation, while promoting the use of local languages and community outreach to educate citizens. Deepening collaboration between the media, the Cyber Security Authority, National Security, and other law enforcement agencies to improve coordinated responses to cybercrime. Establishing a responsive Cybersecurity Press Corps made up of selected journalists from media organisations across Ghana to champion cybersecurity awareness nationwide. The training programme has been structured into four modules. Participants will receive instruction on cybersecurity fundamentals, critical information infrastructure, and responsible reporting practices. Additional modules will cover online fraud, cybercrime trends, reporting techniques, digital forensics for journalists, as well as media ethics, cybersecurity law, child online protection, sextortion, and incident reporting. As part of the programme, every participant will be required to produce and submit a journalistic piece, which may take the form of a news story, feature article, mini-documentary, or investigative report. Selected works will be published to support public education on cybersecurity issues. He explained that membership in the Cybersecurity Press Corps will be granted only to participants who attend all training sessions, successfully complete the required assignments, and actively participate throughout the programme. The project officially commenced with an information session held on July 27, followed by the official launch. Weekly training sessions will continue through the end of August, after which participants' submissions will be reviewed before the formal inauguration of the Cybersecurity Press Corps. The first phase of the initiative is being implemented in Accra, with organisers expressing optimism that the programme will contribute significantly to strengthening Ghana's national cybersecurity ecosystem through responsible and informed media reporting. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Red Cross Society (GRCS), with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), has officially launched a Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) operation worth approximately GH¢8.3 million to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to 30,000 people affected by the devastating June 2026 floods across Greater Accra, Central, Volta and Western North regions. The six-month emergency operation, unveiled during an official press briefing in Accra, aims to provide integrated support in shelter, health, water and sanitation, and livelihood recovery following one of Ghana's worst flooding disasters in recent years. According to the Ghana Red Cross Society, the floods began after successive heavy rains in early June before escalating dramatically on June 29, 2026, when more than 13 hours of torrential rainfall overwhelmed rivers, streams and drainage systems, triggering widespread flooding across southern Ghana. The disaster claimed 30 lives, left more than 70 people injured, while 30 others remain missing. Overall, 69,867 people were affected, with thousands displaced after floodwaters submerged homes and communities. Families were forced to seek refuge in schools, churches and other public facilities as their homes were destroyed. The humanitarian agency said the floods also caused extensive damage to roads, bridges and other public infrastructure, while more than 7,000 residents in the Central and Western regions alone were left homeless after their houses were washed away. Beyond the physical destruction, the Red Cross warned of heightened public health concerns, citing contaminated water sources and overcrowded shelters that increase the risk of outbreaks of cholera, acute diarrhoeal diseases and malaria. In response, the Ghana Red Cross immediately activated its emergency response mechanisms by deploying 10 staff members and 50 volunteers to assist government-led search and rescue operations, administer first aid, provide psychosocial support and conduct rapid needs assessments in affected communities. However, officials acknowledged that the magnitude of the disaster exceeded the Society's immediate response capacity, prompting the activation of the IFRC's Disaster Response Emergency Fund. Under the DREF operation, the Ghana Red Cross will provide emergency shelter support to 2,000 vulnerable households, including the distribution of 150 shelter kits, 2,000 blankets and 2,000 kitchen sets, while trained volunteers will assist beneficiaries with safe shelter construction and minor repairs. To help families recover economically, the Society will provide unconditional multipurpose cash assistance to 1,050 vulnerable households, representing about 5,250 people. Each household will receive GH¢1,200 through mobile money platforms, allowing families to prioritize essential needs such as food, healthcare, shelter repairs and other urgent expenses. Health interventions under the operation include the distribution of 2,000 insecticide-treated mosquito nets targeting children under five, pregnant women and the elderly, alongside the training of 200 volunteers in community health promotion, psychosocial support, first aid and disease surveillance. Additionally, 7,000 social and behaviour change communication materials, including posters, flyers and flipcharts, will be distributed to educate affected communities on disease prevention and healthy practices. Recognising the heightened risk of water-borne diseases, the Red Cross has prioritised Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) interventions. The programme includes the distribution of 1,700 hygiene and dignity kits to 850 households, 20,000 Aquatabs for safe drinking water treatment to 2,000 households, and the installation of 50 handwashing stations in schools, health facilities and markets. Another 200 volunteers will be trained in hygiene promotion, infection prevention and control, and community clean-up campaigns, while 500 sets of personal protective equipment (PPE) will be supplied to volunteers and staff supporting the operation. The Ghana Red Cross stressed that the intervention will fully integrate Protection, Gender and Inclusion (PGI) principles, ensuring priority support for women, children, older persons, persons with disabilities and female-headed households. The Society also reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding policies, including Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA), child protection and whistleblower mechanisms, with all staff and volunteers expected to adhere strictly to the organisation's Code of Conduct. Community Engagement and Accountability (CEA) will remain central to the operation through the establishment of feedback and complaint mechanisms to ensure affected communities actively participate in decision-making. The CEA programme is expected to reach 240,000 people directly and 300,000 indirectly. The Ghana Red Cross said it is implementing the operation in close collaboration with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), government agencies and humanitarian partners through the national Emergency Operations Centre and district-level coordination platforms to avoid duplication and maximise available resources. The organisation further acknowledged the technical and operational support of the IFRC Country Cluster Delegation and the Africa Regional Office in delivering the emergency intervention. Calling for sustained national support, the Ghana Red Cross described the June floods as a stark reminder of Ghana's increasing vulnerability to climate change and extreme weather events. It appealed to government institutions, development partners, United Nations agencies, civil society organisations, the private sector and the media to continue supporting humanitarian efforts to provide relief, prevent further suffering and strengthen community resilience against future disasters. The Society reaffirmed its commitment to standing with affected communities throughout the recovery process while continuing to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience across Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana has presented assorted food items, beverages and a cash donation to the Ga Traditional Council in support of the 2026 Homowo Festival, reaffirming its commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of the Ga people while promoting peace, unity and development. The presentation was made on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama by a delegation led by the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, during a courtesy visit to the Ga Traditional Council ahead of this year's annual Homowo celebration. The delegation included the Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey; the Member of Parliament for the Odododiodio Constituency, Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie; and the Municipal Chief Executive for Korle Klottey, Hon. Alfred Allotey-Gaisie. The donation, valued at GH¢100,000, comprised 119 sacks of maize, 119 gallons of palm oil, 81 cartons of Guinness, 130 cartons of beer, 83 cartons of malt and assorted soft drinks, which will be distributed among the various clans under the Ga State to support the successful organisation of the annual festival. Receiving the items and speaking on behalf of the Ga Traditional Council, Nii Adote Otintor, Sempe Mantse expressed appreciation to the government for its continued support towards the celebration of one of the Ga State's most significant cultural festivals. Addressing the gathering, Greater Accra Regional Minister Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo reiterated government's commitment to preserving the customs and traditions of the Ga people, describing the donation as a demonstration of the administration's dedication to strengthening its partnership with traditional authorities. She noted that the Homowo Festival remains an important symbol of unity, resilience and cultural identity, and expressed optimism that this year's celebration would be peaceful and successful. The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, called on residents to celebrate responsibly and maintain peace throughout the festivities. He also used the occasion to announce the strict enforcement of the upcoming National Sanitation Day exercise scheduled for Saturday, August 1, warning that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) would not tolerate any acts of non-compliance. "We will show no mercy to anyone who flouts the National Sanitation Day exercise directive," the Mayor declared. He urged residents, traders and business owners to suspend commercial activities between 6:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to participate fully in the clean-up exercise, stressing that environmental cleanliness is key to a successful Homowo celebration. Mr. Allotey warned that shops found operating during the sanitation exercise would be locked, while goods seized during enforcement operations would be donated to orphanages. The Mayor further appealed to the youth to celebrate responsibly by staying away from marijuana, tramadol and other harmful substances, while urging traditional leaders and sub-chiefs to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation for the continued progress of the Ga State. "I pray that through this Homowo Festival, peace will prevail in the Ga State. This celebration belongs to all of us, so let us celebrate in peace and unity," he stated. Also speaking at the event, the Member of Parliament for the Odododiodio Constituency, Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie, wished the chiefs and people of the Ga State a peaceful and successful Homowo Festival and encouraged Ghanaians and visitors from across the world to participate in the celebrations and experience the rich cultural heritage of the Ga people. He disclosed that the Ghana Police Service had put in place adequate security arrangements for the festivities, assuring residents that security personnel would be deployed before, during and after the celebrations to protect lives and property. Hon. Kotey Ashie cautioned that anyone who engaged in criminal or disorderly conduct during the festival would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. He also threw his support behind the National Sanitation Day exercise, stressing that the Ga people could not celebrate their most cherished festival in an unclean environment. According to him, maintaining clean homes, markets, streets and public spaces is a shared responsibility that will not only improve public health but also create a befitting atmosphere for the Homowo festivities. He expressed confidence that this year's festival would strengthen peace, unity and solidarity among the various Ga communities while promoting harmonious coexistence. The Homowo Festival, one of Ghana's most celebrated traditional festivals, commemorates the resilience of the Ga people following a historic period of famine. The annual celebration is marked by traditional rites, drumming, dancing, cultural performances and the sharing of the symbolic kpokpoi meal, attracting thousands of residents, tourists and dignitaries from across Ghana and beyond. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has issued a strong warning that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) will strictly enforce the upcoming National Sanitation Day exercise, declaring that authorities will show no leniency to individuals and businesses that fail to comply with the directive. Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Ga Traditional Council ahead of the 2026 Homowo Festival, the Mayor stressed that maintaining a clean city is crucial to the successful celebration of the Ga people's most important cultural festival. "We will show no mercy to anyone who flouts the National Sanitation Day exercise directive," Mr. Allotey stated. He announced that the nationwide sanitation exercise, scheduled for Saturday, August 1, will be observed from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., urging all residents, traders and business owners to suspend commercial activities and actively participate in cleaning their communities. The Mayor warned that traders who ignore the directive and keep their shops open risk severe sanctions, including the closure of their businesses. "Those who keep their shops open and refuse to participate in the exercise will have their shops locked. We expect everyone to support the exercise because a clean Accra is the responsibility of all of us," he said. Mr. Allotey further disclosed that goods confiscated during enforcement operations would be donated to orphanages instead of being returned to offenders. Addressing the youth, he appealed to them to celebrate this year's Homowo Festival responsibly by exercising patience and staying away from marijuana, tramadol and other harmful substances and deviant behaviours. "I pray that through this Homowo Festival, peace will prevail in the Ga State. This celebration belongs to all of us, so let us celebrate in peace and unity," he said. He also urged the sub-chiefs and traditional leaders within the Ga State to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation, stressing that unity among traditional authorities would contribute significantly to the development and revival of the Ga State. Earlier, the Mayor joined the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo; the Member of Parliament for the Odododiodio Constituency, Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie; and the Municipal Chief Executive for Korle Klottey, Hon. Alfred Allotey-Gaisie, on a courtesy visit to the Ga Traditional Council ahead of this year's Homowo Festival. The visit reaffirmed government's commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Ga people while promoting peace, unity and a successful celebration. On behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the delegation presented assorted food items, beverages and a cash donation to support the festival. The donation comprised 119 sacks of maize, 119 gallons of palm oil, 81 cartons of Guinness, 130 cartons of beer, 83 cartons of malt and assorted soft drinks, as well as a cash donation of GH¢100,000. The items were received by the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, on behalf of the Ga Traditional Council and are expected to be distributed among the various clans under the Ga State to support the successful organisation of the annual festival. The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, reaffirmed government's commitment to preserving Ga traditions and promoting peace, unity and development, noting that the presentation demonstrated government's continued partnership with the traditional authorities. The Member of Parliament for the Odododiodio Constituency, Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie, extended his warmest wishes to the chiefs and people of the Ga State, expressing confidence that this year's Homowo Festival would be peaceful, successful and memorable. He encouraged Ghanaians and visitors from across the country and beyond to participate in the festivities and experience the unique culture, hospitality and traditions of the Ga people. Touching on security arrangements, the MP disclosed that engagements had been held with the Ghana Police Service to ensure adequate security throughout the celebration. According to him, security personnel will be deployed before, during and after the festivities to protect lives and property and maintain law and order. He cautioned that anyone who breaches the law during the celebrations would be arrested and made to face the full rigours of the law, stressing that no individual would be allowed to disrupt the peace. Beyond the festival, Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie also threw his support behind the upcoming National Sanitation Day exercise, stressing that the Ga people could not celebrate their biggest cultural festival in an environment engulfed in filth. He described environmental cleanliness as a shared responsibility and urged residents within the constituency and across the Greater Accra Region to actively participate in the sanitation exercise by cleaning their homes, markets, streets and communities. According to him, collective participation would not only improve public health but also enhance the beauty of the national capital and provide a fitting atmosphere for the Homowo celebrations. The MP further expressed confidence that this year's Homowo Festival would strengthen peace, unity and solidarity among the various Ga communities while promoting harmonious coexistence. He reiterated that the food items, beverages and cash donation presented by government would be shared among the various clans under the Ga Traditional Council to support the successful celebration of the festival. The Homowo Festival, one of Ghana's most celebrated cultural festivals, commemorates the resilience and triumph of the Ga people over a historic period of famine. The annual celebration is characterised by traditional rites, drumming, dancing, cultural displays and the sharing of the symbolic kpokpoi meal, attracting thousands of residents, tourists and dignitaries from across Ghana and beyond. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Member of Parliament for the Odododiodio Constituency in the Greater Accra Region, Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie, has called on the youth to abstain from the use of illicit drugs. According to the MP, the abuse of illegal substances often leads young people into acts of indiscipline and criminal behaviours. Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie made the appeal on Thursday at the Ga Traditional Council after presenting assorted items together with Linda Ocloo, Greater Accra Regional Minister and Michael Kpakpo Allotey, Mayor of Accra on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama as his support for the upcoming Homowo celebrations to the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II. Addressing the gathering, the lawmaker urged the youth to conduct themselves responsibly before, during and after the festivities to ensure a peaceful, safe and successful celebration. He noted that Homowo is a significant cultural event that showcases the rich heritage, customs and traditions of the Ga people and should therefore be celebrated in an atmosphere of peace, unity and respect for the law. “I want to appeal especially to our young people to stay away from illicit drugs because these substances influence them to engage in unacceptable behaviour. Let us all celebrate responsibly and preserve the dignity of our cherished festival,” he said. Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie also extended his best wishes to the chiefs and people of the Ga State, expressing confidence that this year’s Homowo Festival would be peaceful and successful. He encouraged Ghanaians and visitors from across the country and beyond to participate in the festivities and experience the unique culture, hospitality and traditions of the Ga people. Touching on security arrangements, the MP disclosed that engagement with the Ghana Police Service have been made to ensure adequate security throughout the celebration. According to him, security personnel will be deployed before, during and after the festivities to protect lives and property and maintain law and order. He cautioned that anyone who breaches the law during the celebrations would be arrested and made to face the full rigours of the law, stressing that no one would be allowed to disrupt the peace. Beyond the festival, Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie also used the occasion to champion the upcoming National Sanitation Day exercise, scheduled for the first week of August. He stressed that the Ga people cannot celebrate their biggest cultural festival in an environment filled with filth, adding that maintaining clean surroundings is a shared responsibility. The MP therefore urged residents within the constituency and across the Greater Accra Region to actively participate in the sanitation exercise by cleaning their homes, markets, streets and communities to create a healthier and safer environment for everyone. He expressed optimism that collective participation in the exercise would enhance the beauty of the capital city and provide a fitting atmosphere for the Homowo celebrations. Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie further expressed confidence that this year’s Homowo Festival would strengthen peace, unity and solidarity among the various Ga communities and promote harmonious coexistence. He also disclosed that the items presented to the Ga Traditional Council would be distributed among the various clans under the Council to support the successful organisation of the annual festival. The Homowo Festival, one of the most celebrated cultural events in Ghana, commemorates the resilience of the Ga people following a historic period of famine. The celebration is marked by traditional rites, music, drumming, dancing and the sharing of the symbolic kpokpoi meal, attracting thousands of residents and visitors each year. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has firmly dismissed claims that the government has sold the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO), assuring workers and the public that no such decision has been taken. Addressing management and staff of the company during a visit to the smelter, Mr. Buah said the government's sole objective is to revive the struggling state-owned enterprise by attracting strategic investment to modernise its operations and restore profitability. He acknowledged that VALCO is currently facing serious operational and financial challenges, including obsolete equipment, ageing technology, frequent plant breakdowns and huge outstanding debts to power suppliers and other creditors. According to the minister, the company owes more than US$250 million to power companies, with about US$40 million owed to GRIDCo alone. He noted that the smelter, which has the capacity to operate 500 reduction cells, is currently running only about 90 cells, resulting in low production, high operating costs and underutilisation of electricity. Mr. Buah explained that the deteriorating state of the plant has prevented VALCO from operating at its full potential, denying thousands of Ghanaians employment opportunities while affecting businesses that depend on the aluminium industry. He disclosed that government estimates more than US$700 million is needed to rehabilitate and modernise the company but admitted that the current economic conditions make it impossible for the state to finance the investment alone. "The government has not sold VALCO," the minister stressed. "What government has done is to authorise the ministry to engage credible investors who are prepared to inject the capital needed to transform the company. There is absolutely no truth in reports suggesting that VALCO has been sold." Mr. Buah said government has instructed the company and the ministry to engage investors transparently while remaining open to better proposals that would safeguard the future of the aluminium smelter. He appealed to workers to support the restructuring process, stressing that resisting reforms would only deepen the company's difficulties and threaten its long-term sustainability. The minister rejected suggestions that government intends to abandon the legacy of Ghana's first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who envisioned VALCO as a cornerstone of the country's industrialisation agenda. He reaffirmed President John Dramani Mahama's commitment to preserving and strengthening the company, insisting that the administration is determined to restore VALCO into a viable and competitive enterprise capable of creating jobs, settling its debts and contributing significantly to Ghana's economic growth. "We have a responsibility to revive VALCO, make it profitable, make it self-sustaining and create opportunities for thousands of Ghanaians. There is no hidden agenda. Our focus is to ensure that VALCO survives and thrives for future generations," Mr. Buah stated. On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO), Dr. Robert Makila Sambian (Ph.D, FCCA, CA), has reaffirmed the company's support for government's efforts to secure strategic investment to revive the state-owned aluminium smelter, expressing confidence that the process will reposition VALCO for long-term growth. Dr. Sambian commended the minister for maintaining open communication with the company's management and staff throughout the process. He recalled that the minister initially delegated his deputy to communicate Cabinet's decision while he was away and later returned to personally engage workers and address their concerns. According to Dr. Sambian, the minister has consistently assured management that VALCO will remain at the centre of all negotiations with prospective strategic investors. He disclosed that the committee being established to oversee the negotiation process will include two representatives from VALCO, a move he said demonstrates government's commitment to transparency, inclusiveness and stakeholder participation. Dr. Sambian further indicated that Cabinet's approval for negotiations was granted with flexibility, allowing government to explore alternative investment options should discussions with any prospective investor fail to produce a mutually beneficial agreement. He appealed to workers and the public to remain calm and avoid being influenced by misinformation surrounding the ongoing process. "I believe much of what is happening stems from misunderstanding, miscommunication or disinformation. Let us all exercise patience and allow the process to unfold, bearing in mind that every step government is taking is intended to secure the future of VALCO and protect the interests of its workers," he said. The VALCO CEO assured the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources of the company's full cooperation throughout the negotiations, expressing optimism that the initiative would restore the company to full productivity and strengthen Ghana's industrial sector. "We have confidence in the process and will support the minister every step of the way. I believe that in the end, VALCO will emerge stronger, Ghana will benefit, and the efforts of the minister and President John Dramani Mahama to revive this strategic national asset will leave a lasting legacy," Dr. Sambian stated. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Priscilla Dodoo

The Public Relations Department of Ghana Water Ltd (GWL) has apologised to customers across the country for temporary interruptions in water supply following the nationwide power system disturbance that has affected the operations of several of the company's water treatment plants and pumping stations. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the PR Department explained that the challenges stem from the ongoing disruptions on the National Interconnected Transmission System managed by the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), which have resulted in unstable electricity supply to key water production facilities. According to the statement, the majority of GWL's water treatment plants and pumping stations depend on electricity from the national grid to operate. The power outages have therefore forced many of the facilities to suspend operations, affecting the production and distribution of potable water to customers in several parts of the country. The company expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to consumers, stressing that the situation is beyond its control. The PR Department assured customers that GWL's technical teams remain on standby and are prepared to resume full water production and distribution immediately after stable electricity supply is restored. It added that management is working closely with GRIDCo and other relevant power sector institutions while closely monitoring developments to ensure that normal water supply services are restored as quickly as possible. Ghana Water Ltd also appealed to customers to remain patient and understanding as efforts continue to resolve the situation, assuring the public that further updates will be provided as circumstances evolve. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith