Veteran Journalist and Former Council of State Member, Gifty Afenyi-Dadzie, has called for a more serious approach to managing Ghana's energy sector, warning that a return of the dreaded power outages, popularly known as dumsor, could lead to widespread job losses. She made the passionate appeal over the weekend at the May edition of Aglow International Ghana’s national prayer gathering, held at the Black Star Square in Accra. Leading a session of intercession, Mrs. Afenyi-Dadzie emphasized the urgent need for divine intervention and responsible leadership within the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the broader energy sector. “I want you to be serious because when the dumsor starts again, it will affect several jobs,” she cautioned, urging stakeholders to act swiftly to avert a national crisis. The prayer session formed part of Aglow Ghana’s ongoing spiritual campaign for national transformation, with a special focus this month on energy stability, good governance, and institutional accountability. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A major breakthrough in the fight against transnational crime has been recorded as the Ghana Police Service confirms the arrest and repatriation of one of the country’s most wanted armed robbery suspects, Adinda Akpo Abdou Moudjibou, from neighbouring Togo. Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Ghana Police Service, (DCOP) Lydia Yaako Donkor, addressing journalists in Accra on Saturday, revealed that the suspect—also known by aliases Rashid Bawa, Maxwell, Papa Rich, and Dawa—was arrested in Lomé on 30th January 2025 through close collaboration between INTERPOL Accra and INTERPOL Lomé. Moudjibou is believed to be the mastermind behind a string of high-profile armed robberies carried out between 2022 and 2024 in affluent Accra neighbourhoods including East Legon, Cantonments, Ridge, Tesano, Airport Residential Area, and Adjiriganor. According to DCOP Donkor, operations of Moudjibou were captured on various CCTV footages and widely shared on social media. His alleged accomplice, Alidu Marzouk, was arrested in September 2024 and remains in custody, assisting with investigations. Moudjibou, however, fled the country and was placed on INTERPOL’s Red Notice after it was discovered that he held both Ghanaian and Togolese identification documents. After months of intense intelligence work, a five-member delegation led by DCOP Donkor departed Accra aboard a military aircraft on Wednesday, 14th May 2025, to officially receive the suspect. The handover took place in Lomé in the presence of Ghanaian embassy officials and Togolese police authorities. The arrest and transfer were made possible under the Agreement on Cooperation in Criminal Matters between Police Services of West African States, signed in Accra in 2003, which allows for streamlined police-to-police extraditions. Moudjibou has since been flown back to Accra and is currently in custody, assisting the police with ongoing investigations. “The success of this operation is a testament to the power of regional cooperation in combating transnational crime,” DCOP Donkor stated. “To all suspects still at large, be warned—we are coming for you.” The Ghana Police Service expressed profound gratitude to the Togolese authorities, INTERPOL Lomé, and the Ghana Embassy in Togo for their support and collaboration in securing the arrest and transfer of the suspect. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana has been hit with sad news following reports of the death of celebrated Highlife musician, Nana Kwaku Duah, popularly known as Dada KD. The cause of his death is yet to be officially confirmed, but tributes have already begun pouring in from fellow musicians and fans across social media. Content Creator, Afia Schwarzenegger, in a post, wrote: “Ahh, Kwaku Duah, But Why.” Gospel musician Broda Sammy also mourned him with the words: “Rest in peace champion musician Dada KD.” Fellow Highlife singer Dada Hafco simply posted: “KD? Chaleee Ei.” Dada KD’s reported death comes just days ahead of a major concert in London on May 25, where he was scheduled to perform together with Obrafour, Slim Buster, and Kojo Blakk. Dada KD was revered for timeless Highlife classics including Tekyere Ma, Ene Menye, Wosuro a Wondi, and Honey Love. His death marks a significant loss to Ghana’s music industry and cultural heritage. More details will be provided as they emerge. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Mohammed A. Alhassan (Rtd.), has called on personnel of the Ghana Police Service to recommit themselves to professionalism, discipline, and public trust in the face of growing challenges in law enforcement. Speaking at the launch of his memoir titled “A Life of Service in Law Enforcement and Global Peacekeeping” , the retired IGP emphasized that the responsibility of rebuilding the Police Service's image rests on every officer, regardless of rank. “Every officer — whether a Constable, Sergeant, or Senior Commander — has a role to play in restoring the pride and professionalism of the Ghana Police Service,” Mr. Alhassan stated, drawing applause from the audience. His memoir traces his remarkable journey from growing up as a "Police Barracks Boy" to becoming Ghana's top police officer and a key figure in international peacekeeping missions. The book serves not only as a personal account but also as a leadership guide and institutional blueprint. Mr. Alhassan lamented the discontinuation of critical reform initiatives within the Service, which he believes has slowed progress in professionalism and accountability. He urged officers to view the police uniform not as a symbol of authority, but as a badge of service, integrity, and justice. The event also featured remarks from former Chief of Staff, Mr. Julius Debrah, who described the memoir as “a call to national action”. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening peacekeeping capacities, including the formation of an all-female Formed Police Unit. Current IGP Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who served under Mr. Alhassan’s leadership as Accra Regional Commander, praised his predecessor’s vision and reforms, including the establishment of key training institutions like the Police Command and Staff College. Mr. Alhassan’s memoir is already being hailed as a must-read for security professionals, policy makers, and young officers committed to restoring public confidence in law enforcement. Taking his turn, Togbuiga Sri III, Awoamefia of Anlo and retired Commissioner of Police, described the launch of An Aroma of Policing, the memoir of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Mohammed A. Alhassan, as a landmark moment in Ghana’s law enforcement history. The revered traditional leader and seasoned police veteran said the memoir represents not just a personal account but a national legacy. “It is a distinct honour and privilege to chair this historic event,” he began. "For the first time in our nation’s history, a former IGP has taken the bold step to document and share his lived experiences — from barracks life to international service and the apex of policing in Ghana. This is indeed a novelty worth celebrating.” Togbuiga Sri III offered a personal reflection on his decades-long association with Mr. Alhassan, recalling his early days as a National Service personnel at the Police Depot. “Even then, there was a spark,” he noted. “One could sense his dedication, discipline, and promise. I have had the privilege of mentoring him at critical stages and witnessing his steady rise with pride.” Describing the book as more than just a memoir, Togbuiga Sri III called it a “legacy project” — one that serves as a valuable resource for future generations of police officers, policymakers, and citizens seeking insight into the evolution of policing in Ghana. He urged all attendees to treat the event not merely as a book launch but as a moment of national reflection. “Let us be inspired. Let us support this work not just to honour the author, but to encourage others in documenting and contributing to our collective development.” The launch attracted high-profile dignitaries from the security sector, diplomatic corps, traditional leadership, and academia. Many hailed the memoir as a timely and necessary contribution to Ghana’s security discourse. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Sulemana Yusif, has emphasized that Ghana’s ambition to transform its economy and achieve sustainable development is heavily dependent on the establishment of a robust and efficient land administration system. Speaking at the inauguration of the Northern Regional Lands Commission at the Regional Coordinating Council, the Deputy Minister underscored that, “Our quest to transform our national economy, to bring about the much-needed development and prosperity, cannot be achieved if we fail to anchor an effective land administration." The ceremony saw the swearing-in of 21 newly appointed members to the Regional Lands Commission in accordance with the Lands Commission Act of 2008 (Act 767). Hon. Yusif, who administered the oath of office, charged the commission members to uphold patriotism, selflessness, and determination in the discharge of their duties. He urged them to prioritize the interest of the region and the nation above all other considerations and called for urgent efforts to accelerate land reforms. “This will not only boost public confidence in the Lands Commission but also drive the socioeconomic development agenda of our country,” he added. Reiterating the importance of collaboration, the Deputy Minister called on all institutions in the land administration chain to work closely together to ensure effective land governance. He also highlighted the crucial role land plays in national development and warned that mismanagement could lead to conflict and hinder progress. “Land, as we all know, is a very important natural resource. It is the catalyst for socio-economic development in every nation, but if not well managed, can lead to conflicts and disasters,” he said. Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, also addressed the gathering and linked the region’s development goals—particularly in agro-processing and agriculture—to effective land administration. He urged the new commission members to see their appointments as a call to action and commit themselves to the region’s transformation. “Without sound and appropriate land institutions, there can be no sustainable development. Our vision is to make the region the most preferred destination for agro-processing and agriculture. That vision is tied to land and its proper administration,” he stated. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Presidency has decided not to take further disciplinary action against the acting Chief Executive Officer of the Gold Bond, Mr. Sammy Gyamfi, following the emergence of a controversial video showing him handing over a cash gift to self-styled evangelist, Agradaa. In the immediate aftermath of the video's circulation, Mr. Gyamfi issued a public apology, expressing regret and taking responsibility for his actions. A day later, he was summoned to the Presidency by the Chief of Staff to provide clarification on the matter. Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced on Wednesday that Mr. Gyamfi honored the invitation and offered his side of the story during a closed-door meeting. President John Dramani Mahama, who was out of the country at the time, has since been fully briefed on the interaction. According to the Minister, the Presidency has acknowledged Mr. Gyamfi’s prompt apology and contrition, which aligns with the remedies outlined in the Code of Conduct launched by President Mahama. The code permits a public apology and an official caution as appropriate responses to breaches of conduct. "The Chief of Staff, after acknowledging the apology, issued a formal caution to Mr. Gyamfi and impressed upon him the need to take public sentiment seriously and act in ways that reflect the expectations of the Ghanaian people," Kwakye Ofosu stated. He further explained that the caution was consistent with earlier guidance issued by President Mahama to all appointees, urging them to be mindful of their behavior in both public and private settings. "There may be things that are commonplace in our private lives, but once you become a public official, you need to be sensitive to public expectation," he said. "The Presidency does not believe that any further action ought to be taken beyond the apology and the caution." The government reaffirmed its commitment to high standards of public service and emphasized the importance of feedback from Ghanaians, especially in the wake of growing demands for accountability and transparency. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana is inching closer to a historic milestone in forest governance as the country prepares to issue its first Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) license by June 30, 2025, marking the end of a 15-year journey under the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the European Union (EU). Dr. Hugh C. A. Brown, Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, made the announcement during a stakeholder engagement on the implementation of FLEGT licensing and the role of industry in ensuring a smooth transition, held in Accra on Wednesday. “This journey began with the signing of the VPA with the EU—an initiative aimed at bringing greater transparency and good governance to the timber industry, from the administration of timber rights to processing,” Dr. Brown stated. He explained that the agreement was a strategic move toward sustainable forest management and equitable benefit-sharing, especially for local communities whose livelihoods were previously threatened by widespread illegal logging. According to Dr. Brown, the country has made substantial progress over the years. "We’ve developed and implemented forest management plans, introduced an effective chain-of-custody system to track timber from source to market, and launched an electronic verification system that allows near real-time monitoring,” he noted. A major upgrade has also been the transformation of the Ghana Wood Tracking System (GWTS) into the GWTS Division Support System (GWTS-DSS), which enhances regulatory oversight through reliable data. "With a click of a button, we can now know how much volume of timber has been harvested, how close we are to the Annual Allowable Cut (AAC), and who is harvesting where,” Dr. Brown said. “This has significantly improved our ability to regulate the sector effectively.” The Forestry Commission boss emphasized that Ghana's multi-stakeholder approach has been key to resolving long-standing industry issues. "We’ve created platforms that allow civil society, industry players, and government to engage dispassionately and collaboratively. Civil society has become very active, and that has strengthened the process,” he said. Dr. Brown also highlighted the introduction of an independent monitor—an external entity that periodically assesses the system to ensure compliance with standards—as a key innovation that has earned the confidence of donors and international partners. Despite acknowledging a few outstanding issues, he expressed confidence that Ghana will meet the June 30 deadline. "We believe that this time, there will be no extension. We are hopeful and encouraged by the current momentum. We pray that you all help us make this a reality,” he urged participants. The issuance of the FLEGT license will make Ghana the first African country and second globally, after Indonesia, to reach this critical stage in forest governance—a significant boost for sustainable trade in legal timber with the EU and other international markets. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Forestry Commission (FC) has outlined the legal framework governing the suspension and cancellation of licences under the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) licensing regime, emphasizing due process and the importance of industry compliance. Speaking on the suspension and cancellation of licence during the implementation of Flegt licencing and role of industry in ensuring a smooth transition engagement in Accra on Wednesday, Mr. Dennis Osei-Hwere Esq., Director of Corporate Legal Affairs at the Forestry Commission, explained that the Commission retains the right to suspend or cancel any licence already granted if the licensee fails to comply with the terms and conditions attached to it. “If an alliance or licence is granted and the holder breaches its conditions or contravenes any provision of L.I. 2254 or relevant legal enactments, that serves as grounds for suspension or cancellation,” Mr. Osei-Hwere said. "However, the Commission does not immediately take such action. The licensee must first be given at least 14 days to rectify or remedy the breach.” He emphasized that any decision to suspend or cancel a licence becomes effective only after the licensee has been formally notified. “The cancellation or suspension only takes effect from the date the notice is served on the licensee,” he added. “Without that communication, the action is not valid.” Mr. Osei-Hwere also addressed the process for reviewing such decisions, warning that aggrieved applicants must follow internal procedures. “If you submit an application and a decision is made by the Commission, you cannot bypass the internal review process by petitioning the Chief Executive or going straight to court,” he cautioned. “A designated review committee is in place to handle such matters.” The legal director's remarks come as part of ongoing efforts to ensure a smooth implementation of the FLEGT licensing system, which aims to promote legal timber trade and improve forest governance in Ghana. The Forestry Commission encouraged industry stakeholders to uphold compliance and accountability to maintain the integrity of the FLEGT process and secure Ghana’s position in international timber markets. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Volta Regional Police Command has arrested four suspects in connection with the brutal murder of a mobile money vendor during a daylight robbery at Gbagblakope, near the Diamond Cement Factory in Aflao . The suspects—Michael Sewornu, 34; Korku Agboada, 43; Atsu Agbagla, 36; and Utsuku Onyeso, 22, a Nigerian national—were apprehended during a coordinated intelligence-led operation in the early hours of Saturday, May 10, 2025, between midnight and 2:00 a.m. The arrests followed a deadly attack on Monday, April 28, 2025, at around 2:15 p.m., when a group of armed men ambushed and fatally shot mobile money vendor Christopher Ahordo. The assailants fled the scene with a bag believed to have contained a significant amount of cash. The operation was a joint effort between the Police Intelligence Department, SWAT Unit, Operation Motherland Taskforce, and a local community watchdog group, ACTION NOW. The suspects are currently in police custody and assisting with ongoing investigations. In a statement, the Ghana Police Service commended the crucial role played by the community in aiding the arrest and emphasized the importance of citizen involvement in tackling crime. “We are grateful for the collaboration with the ACTION NOW community watch group, whose vigilance and support contributed significantly to this breakthrough. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. Timely and credible information remains vital in our collective fight against crime,” the statement read. The Police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and enhancing public safety across the country. Story by; Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service has intensified its nationwide operations against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey , resulting in the arrest of 208 suspects and the retrieval of 99 excavators and a host of other mining equipment between March and April 2025 . The clampdown, which targeted major illegal mining hotspots, saw significant operations conducted in the Western, Western Central, Eastern South, Eastern North, and Upper West Regions. In a major operation led by the Police Anti-Galamsey Taskforce at Samreboi along the Tano River, Wassa Dunkwa, Tigarikrom and nearby communities in the Western Region, 58 suspects were arrested, including 50 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals. Authorities also retrieved 85 excavators and 3 bulldozers during this raid. Other regional operations recorded the following: Western Region:  19 suspects were arrested and 3 excavators and 3 pump-action guns were retrieved. Upper West Region:  7 Ghanaian suspects were picked up, with the police recovering 11 changfangs and 3 motorbikes among other equipment. Eastern South Region:  24 suspects, including one Burkinabe, were apprehended. The operation also led to the seizure of 5 excavators, 3 single-barrel guns, and 1 pump-action gun. Western Central Region:  85 suspects were arrested, comprising 76 Ghanaians and 9 Chinese nationals. The team retrieved 11 excavators and various mining tools. Eastern North Region:  15 suspects, including one Chinese national, were taken into custody. Police recovered 4 excavator control boards, 9 monitors, and 1 pistol, along with other mining-related items. In total, police operations led to the confiscation of: 99 excavators 3 bulldozers 4 pump-action guns 3 single-barrel guns 1 pistol 11 changfangs Numerous other exhibits including vehicles, motorbikes, tricycles, generators, gold detectors, and pumping machines All suspects are currently undergoing due legal processes. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining and safeguarding the country’s natural resources. The Service further assured the public that such operations will be sustained in collaboration with other state agencies to protect the environment and uphold the rule of law. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Sulemana Yusif, has tasked the newly inaugurated Upper East Regional Lands Commission to take proactive steps to resolve all land-related disputes and conflicts in the region. Speaking during the inauguration of the 17-member board in Bolgatanga on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, Hon. Sulemana emphasized the need for the Commission to uphold its constitutional mandate and manage lands in a fair, transparent, and professional manner. “The days of disposing of land without recourse to the Regional Lands Commission should be a thing of the past. You must jealously guard the powers vested in you by the Constitution and exercise them in honesty and good faith to ensure coordinated development,” he stressed. He urged the Commission to work closely with traditional leaders and other stakeholders to address longstanding land disputes, which he noted, continue to threaten peace and development in the region. Hon. Sulemana added that government’s broader vision of transitioning into a 24-hour economy requires efficient land administration systems that promote investor confidence and improve the ease of doing business. He warned that failure to deliver on their mandate could lead to uncoordinated and haphazard development across the region. The Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Akamugri Donatus Atanga, also addressed the gathering and called on the Commission to improve land registration systems to attract more investors. He reminded the board that their role is critical to economic growth, stability, and peace. “You have been entrusted with a responsibility that directly affects livelihoods, investments, and the peace of the region. You are therefore required to exhibit a high sense of professionalism, integrity, and diligence in the discharge of your mandate,” he charged. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, has underscored the importance of cultural exchange and traditional governance in strengthening inter-African cooperation, particularly between Ghana and Namibia. He made these remarks on Monday during an engagement with a high-powered Namibian delegation of paramount chiefs and senior traditional leaders at the Ga Mantse Palace in Accra. The delegation from Namibia was led by His Majesty Chief Immanuel Gaseb, Chairperson of the 54 Traditional Authorities Council in Namibia He was accompanied by His Royal Highness King Fillemon Shuumbwa, King of Ondonga and Chairman of the Traditional Authority Trust in Namibia; His Majesty Chief Sam Kambazembi, Chairperson of the Chiefs Business Company; Retired Brigadier General David Mbandeka, Senior Traditional Councilor; Ms. Louise Penna Shixwameni, Chairperson of the Chief Investment Committee; and other senior government officials in charge of state enterprises. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II said "There is much we can learn from one another — from our cultures, our ancestry, and our heritage. You are most welcome to this table of men.” He highlighted Ghana’s efforts in harmonizing traditional authority with modern governance, with particular emphasis on the legal framework that safeguards the chieftaincy institution. “In Ghana, we have successfully institutionalized the National House of Chiefs, which serves as the apex court for judicial decisions relating to chieftaincy and certain land matters" "The regular courts do not have jurisdiction over chieftaincy disputes. Matters involving traditional contempt or succession must be resolved through the traditional structures — from the Traditional Council to the Regional House of Chiefs, and then the National House of Chiefs" "Only the Supreme Court may intervene under its supervisory jurisdiction,” the Ga Mantse explained. He noted that the judicial committees of the traditional courts are solely empowered to handle cases affecting traditional leaders, including chiefs and paramount rulers, and emphasized the uniqueness of this approach as a model worthy of study and adaptation by other nations King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II further mentioned that Ghana’s recently enacted Land Act — passed and enforced by Parliament — will be shared with the Namibian delegation for comparative study. “We would be happy to present you with the new Land Act for your review and to allow you to compare it with Namibia’s existing land laws,” he said. The Ga Mantse also commended the idea of mutual exchange programs between the two nations, where traditional leaders and council members could visit each other’s countries to learn best practices in traditional governance and cooperation with state authorities. “In every capital, traditional authorities tend to suffer marginalization due to the centralization of power. That is why we must always strive to find a compromise — one that ensures peace, cooperation, and national progress,” he added. Speaking through his translator, Chief Immanuel Gaseb, expressed his gratitude to King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II for the warm reception. He pledged to strengthen the bond between the Ga State and Namibia. He expressed optimism that this connection would create opportunities for citizens of both nations to visit one another, experience cultural diversity, and deepen their understanding of each other's traditions. The visit by the Namibian delegation marks a significant milestone in fostering African unity, promoting traditional diplomacy, and enhancing cultural and institutional cooperation between Ghana and Namibia. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith