A dramatic moment unfolded during President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's final State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Friday, January 3, 2025, when his aide-de-camp, Colonel Isaac Amponsah, suddenly collapsed while on duty. The incident occurred moments after the President began delivering his speech, which focused on his administration’s achievements and the vision for Ghana’s future. Col. Amponsah, a long-serving and highly regarded member of the President's security team, unexpectedly lost consciousness, drawing immediate concern from those present. Parliament’s medical team swiftly responded, providing first aid before transporting him to a nearby medical facility for further evaluation. The nature of the collapse remains unclear, though sources indicate he is receiving the necessary care. President Akufo-Addo, visibly perturbed, paused his address briefly to ensure his aide was attended to. The Address resumed shortly after, allowing the President to conclude his final speech to the nation as he approaches the end of his tenure. The Address highlighted milestones achieved under his leadership, including infrastructure development, economic growth, and ongoing efforts to strengthen Ghana’s democracy. Despite the interruption, the event was a pivotal moment, marking the conclusion of Akufo-Addo’s two-term presidency. Further updates on Col. Amponsah’s health are anticipated, with many Ghanaians expressing their prayers and well-wishes for his swift recovery. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In his final State of the Nation Address to Parliament on Friday, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo celebrated the achievements of his administration, highlighting the creation of six new regions as a landmark success. The regions—Western North, Ahafo, Bono East, Oti, North East, and Savannah—were established to decentralize governance and bring development closer to the people, fulfilling long-standing demands by local communities. “These regions stand as evidence of our commitment to equitable development, enhancing access to public services, infrastructure, and economic opportunities for millions of Ghanaians,” the President stated. President Akufo-Addo also reiterated his administration’s advocacy for the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). Although the reform process was halted, he expressed hope that the initiative, which aims to deepen democratic accountability, would materialize in the near future. On youth empowerment, the President pointed to investments in sports infrastructure, including the construction of 150 AstroTurf pitches nationwide and the rehabilitation of stadia. He credited these initiatives with bolstering Ghana's reputation as a sports hub, evidenced by the successful hosting of the 2023 All-Africa Games. He further emphasized the importance of creating an entrepreneurial climate for young Ghanaians, outlining programs by the National Youth Authority aimed at providing tools and opportunities for youth to thrive in various sectors. President Akufo-Addo’s address reflected his administration’s vision for equitable development, democratic reform, and youth empowerment as foundational pillars for Ghana’s progress. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed Ghana’s financial stability, dismissing claims that the country is broke. Addressing Parliament during his final State of the Nation Address on Friday, the President outlined significant economic achievements, including improved growth rates, rising private sector credit, and stronger external balances. “The economy has rebounded from a growth rate of 4.8% in the first quarter of 2024 to 7.2% in the third quarter, with an annual growth rate projected at 6.3%, far above the 3.4% we inherited in 2017,” he noted. President Akufo-Addo highlighted a 28.87% growth in private sector credit in October 2024, a sharp recovery from the negative 7.5% recorded in the same period of 2023. He also emphasized the improvement in the current account balance, which now stands at a surplus of 2.6% of GDP, compared to a deficit of 6.6% in 2016. Additionally, the President cited progress in curbing inflation, which dropped from 54% in December 2022 to 23% in November 2024. Food prices have also begun to decline, easing the cost of living for households. Akufo-Addo assured Ghanaians that the government remains committed to sustaining these economic gains and delivering further relief. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has lauded his administration’s transformational impact on Ghana’s education sector, emphasizing the success of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. Speaking at his final State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Friday, the President highlighted the substantial gains achieved under the policy, which has expanded access to secondary education for millions of Ghanaian children. “Some 5.7 million children have gained access to secondary education who would otherwise not have had the opportunity but for Free SHS and Free TVET,” he stated. “I am proud that we were brave enough to start a Free SHS policy at the beginning of my first term and resisted the calls for a gradual introduction.” President Akufo-Addo noted that the initiative has removed the entrenched belief that secondary education is reserved for only privileged households, significantly enhancing inclusivity in education. He further emphasized his administration’s focus on technical and vocational education and training (TVET), revealing that 34 new TVET institutions have been established, while 62 existing ones have been upgraded. "This investment equips our youth with 21st-century skills to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world,” he added. The President also highlighted the academic performance of students under the Free SHS policy, pointing to consistent improvements in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results. From 2020, when the first cohort of Free SHS candidates sat for the WASSCE, over 50% of candidates have consistently scored A1 to C6 in all four core subjects. “In 2016, only 51.6% of candidates achieved A1 to C6 in English. By 2024, this number had risen significantly to 69.52%. This marks a stark improvement compared to the years prior,” he stated. President Akufo-Addo commended the bold decisions his administration made to prioritize education, noting that these policies have left a lasting impact on Ghana’s future generations. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has assured the victims of the devastating Kantamanto market fire of the government’s unwavering support as they navigate the aftermath of the tragedy. Addressing the nation during his final State of the Nation Address in Accra on Friday, the President expressed profound sorrow over the incident, which has left countless traders without their livelihoods. "My thoughts and prayers are with those affected, and I extend heartfelt sympathies to the hard-working traders who have lost their goods and investments," he stated. The President reiterated the government’s commitment to working with relevant agencies to determine the causes of the fire and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. He also pledged to ensure that affected traders receive the necessary assistance to rebuild their lives and businesses. "As a nation, let us unite in compassion and solidarity to help those who have suffered losses. Together, we can extend a helping hand to our fellow Ghanaians in need during this challenging time," he added. The fire, which swept through the bustling market, has sparked widespread calls for enhanced fire safety measures in public trading areas. Meanwhile, government agencies are expected to release an official report on the incident in the coming weeks. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Outgoing Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West Constituency, Ursula Gifty Owusu-Ekuful, has emphasized that the government has laid the necessary groundwork for 5G technology in Ghana, placing the next phase of implementation squarely in the hands of telecom operators. Speaking about the country’s progress in adopting the next generation of mobile technology, Owusu-Ekuful stated, “The wholesale infrastructure, we built it. It’s now up to the telecom companies to buy capacity from it and deliver it to their subscribers.” She clarified that the government had fulfilled its part by ensuring the infrastructure was in place. Any delays in 5G accessibility, she added, were due to telecom operators not yet fully integrating the technology into their networks. Reflecting on a Parliamentary Career In a reflective moment, Owusu-Ekuful also addressed her departure from Parliament after a decade of service. When asked what led to her not securing another term, she responded, “I think you’ll have to ask the constituents, not me. I am confident that we did an excellent job, but it was their choice to go with someone else.” The former Communications Minister expressed pride in her contributions, citing tangible developmental projects as evidence of her impactful tenure. She remains optimistic about the legacy she leaves behind in her constituency and the telecommunications sector. As Ghana transitions into a 5G-enabled era, Owusu-Ekuful’s remarks highlight the collaborative role telecom companies must play in delivering the technology to subscribers nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In the wake of a devastating fire that ravaged the Kantamanto market in Accra on Thursday morning, individuals believed to be scrap dealers were seen salvaging metal items from the debris to sell for profit. The inferno, which broke out at dawn, destroyed over 100 shops, leaving traders in despair and facing monumental losses. While traders scrambled to rescue their wares, the rapid spread of the flames left many with little to salvage. Amidst the chaos, scrap dealers were observed scavenging through the charred remains, collecting hot metal without protective gear. It is emerging that these individuals seemed undeterred by the dangers, driven by the opportunity to capitalize on the tragedy. Some traders suspect foul play, speculating that the fire might have been deliberately set. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has commenced an investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze. Affected shop owners have made an urgent appeal to the government for assistance to rebuild their businesses. While recovery efforts are underway, traders are also calling for authorities to enhance market safety measures and expedite investigations to prevent similar incidents. The Kantamanto fire underscores the fragility of market infrastructure and the need for proactive steps to safeguard traders and their livelihoods. As investigations continue, traders are left with the daunting task of rebuilding their lives, hoping for timely interventions and reforms to prevent future tragedies. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has announced the indefinite closure of its Bonsa Headworks, which supplies 75% of potable water to the Tarkwa-Nsueam Municipality in the Western Region. This decision, contained in a statement dated January 2, 2025, and signed by Wisdom Doe Akoto, the Tarkwa District Manager of GWL, is a direct result of the severe pollution of the Bonsa River due to illegal mining activities, commonly known as "galamsey." “The impact of galamsey has rendered the river unsuitable for water extraction and treatment, making it impossible to continue operations,” the statement read. The company explained that despite repeated efforts to mitigate the pollution and sustain water treatment processes, the deteriorating quality of the river forced the shutdown. “We have tried all that we could but to no avail, hence the shutdown. The river is still being monitored for acceptable parameters to enable us to restart production, and until then, the plant remains closed,” Mr. Akoto emphasized. GWL has called on all stakeholders, including local authorities and security agencies, to take urgent and decisive measures to curb illegal mining and restore the river’s water quality. The closure of the Bonsa Headworks is expected to significantly disrupt water supply to residents and industries in the Tarkwa-Nsueam Municipality, underscoring the devastating effects of galamsey on essential public resources. GWL assured the public that it is monitoring the river and will provide updates on the situation. In the meantime, residents have been advised to conserve water and explore alternative sources as authorities work to address the crisis. This development serves as a wake-up call for intensified efforts to combat illegal mining and safeguard Ghana’s critical water resources for communities and future generations. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is set to deliver his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) today at Parliament House, Accra. The highly anticipated event will mark the President's last formal address to the nation, summarizing his administration's achievements, challenges, and the state of Ghana as he prepares to leave office. The address is expected to draw a host of high-profile dignitaries, including President-elect John Dramani Mahama, members of Parliament, heads of state institutions, and other key stakeholders. Ghanaians from all walks of life will be keenly following the address, which serves as an opportunity for the outgoing president to highlight his legacy while setting the tone for a smooth transition of power. The event will be broadcast live across multiple media platforms, ensuring nationwide coverage. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former Black Stars captain, Asamoah Gyan, has sparked widespread discussion after attributing Ghana’s prolonged trophy drought in football to the actions of unnamed “evil people.” Speaking during an emotional Instagram live session, Gyan reflected on his experiences with the national team and the factors he believes have hindered its success. “There are evil people in this country; that’s why we can’t win anything because of these people. They have tarnished Ghana’s reputation with dirt,” Gyan declared, visibly upset during the session. Ghana’s last African Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory was in 1982, marking 43 years of frustration for a country with a storied football history. This year, the Black Stars will also miss out on the AFCON tournament in Morocco, further deepening the nation’s football woes. Though Gyan did not name specific individuals, his remarks hinted at his dissatisfaction with how his popularity was used for political gains. He specifically mentioned his brief stint with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), where he served as chairman of the youth and sports subcommittee for the party’s manifesto committee. “They used my popularity as a political tactic to get my fans to vote for them,” Gyan stated, reflecting on his six months in the role before stepping down. His exit from politics coincided with a renewed commitment to youth development, a cause he has championed through the Asamoah Gyan Foundation. The former striker revealed plans to invest in youth development through sports academies, training centres, and mentorship programs. These initiatives aim to provide opportunities for young talents to develop their skills and reach their full potential. Asamoah Gyan remains Ghana’s all-time leading goal scorer and one of the nation’s most celebrated athletes. However, his latest revelations highlight the challenges beyond the pitch that may be affecting Ghana’s football legacy. Gyan’s comments have reignited discussions about the need for systemic reforms and unity within Ghana football as the nation continues its search for a return to glory. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Rosina Acheampong, the trailblazing first Ghanaian and non-missionary headmistress of Wesley Girls' High School, has passed away. The revered educator and disciplinarian reportedly died on January 1, 2025, though the cause of her death remains unknown. Fondly known as "Archie" by her students, Dr. Acheampong dedicated 30 years of her life to the prestigious institution, including 16 years as its headmistress from 1981 to 1997. She succeeded Mrs. Howarth (née Clarice Garnett), becoming the first Ghanaian head of the school after three years as its assistant headmistress. During her tenure, Dr. Acheampong upheld and further elevated the high academic and moral standards of Wesley Girls', cementing her legacy as a formidable force in Ghanaian education. Beyond her tenure at Wesley Girls', she achieved another first by becoming the Ghana Education Service's first female Deputy Director-General, a role that further underscored her commitment to advancing education, particularly for girls. Her death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from former students and admirers on social media. Many credit her with shaping their lives and laying the foundation for their success. Citizen Ogya Esi wrote: "Yesterday, I lost my 2nd mother. Archie - Mrs. Rosina Acheampong (legendary Wesley Girls' High School headmistress), who was also an AGE advisory board member. I lived with her for my first 3 years in WGHS, and I'm very close to her to this day. It's a tough one, given that I lost my Mom just about 6 months ago. May the Lord give her rest. She was one of my biggest cheerleaders ever, and allllways pushed me to do more and give everything my best, especially my calling to work with young people and with the elderly. I'll miss her sorely. Grace and strength! hmm..." Dr. Esi Ansah, a close former student, described her as a second mother. “Archie was one of my biggest cheerleaders, always pushing me to excel. Her legacy in shaping young minds and inspiring greatness is unmatched,” she wrote. Another alumna, Afua Kunadu-Awuah, highlighted her impact, saying, “Countless trailblazers across the world owe their success to her sacrifices for girl-child education. Rest well, Archie. You’ve fought a good fight, and your crown awaits you.” Lady-eileen Erskine said: "Awww Archie. She will sorely be missed." Selasie Adzo Akyianu wrote: "Indomitable Archie has gone on to be with the Lord? Naughty angels 😇 should align. May her soul rest in peace. Didn’t know her but I sure heard a lot about her." In her 2020 autobiography, Dr. Acheampong chronicled her journey at Wesley Girls' and her contributions to education. Her influence extended beyond those who directly encountered her; even students who attended the school after her tenure were inspired by stories of her achievements. The news of her passing marks the end of an era for many, as her contributions to education and mentorship have left an indelible mark. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and the standards she set for future generations. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) marked the close of 2024 with a thanksgiving service at its National Headquarters, bringing together officers from Tema, Kotoka International Airport (KIA), Weija, and Accra. During the event, the outgoing Comptroller General, Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi, formally announced his retirement after eight years of service. Reflecting on his tenure, he acknowledged the challenges his administration faced, including setbacks and criticism, but expressed pride in the strides made under his leadership and that of his predecessor. In his farewell address, Mr. Takyi issued a stern caution to officers, urging them to refrain from backbiting and tarnishing the reputation of superiors and colleagues in the pursuit of personal gain. "The service thrives on unity and professionalism. It is disheartening to see individuals undermining others for favours. Such acts erode trust and the integrity of our institution," he stated. Highlighting the legacy of his administration, he challenged the incoming Comptroller General to build upon the foundations laid, warning that it would be a "great disservice" to let the progress achieved go to waste. Mr. Takyi also announced the promotion of five Deputy Commissioners to the rank of Commissioners of Immigration, emphasizing the importance of leadership continuity. The newly promoted officers are: 1. Maud Anima Quianoo 2. Yaw Owusu Achiaw 3. Evelyn Lotsu 4. Samuel Ayer 5. Prudence Sosu He encouraged junior officers to uphold the values of respect and dedication to the service, describing GIS as one of Ghana's most prestigious state institutions. In closing, Mr. Takyi expressed gratitude to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for the confidence placed in him, which allowed him to lead the Service. The President , H.E. Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo on Monday bestowed a prestigious Presidential Honour for Distinguished Service on the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) at the 2024 Ghana National Honours and Awards ceremony in Accra. He also pledged his support to the incoming Comptroller General, stating, "My doors remain open to share ideas and provide guidance whenever necessary." The thanksgiving service was a moment of reflection, celebration, and hope for the future of the Ghana Immigration Service. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith