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The Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, has underscored the importance of strictly adhering to approved development plans, describing it as fundamental to accountability and sound public financial management. Speaking at a strategic regional consultative engagement at the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, Dr. Smock stressed that development plans serve as binding frameworks guiding government spending and policy implementation across Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). “Strict adherence to approved development plans is essential,” she stated, explaining that both internal and external auditors assess public expenditure against these frameworks, making compliance critical to transparency and efficiency. She urged assemblies across the country to prioritise alignment with certified plans, warning that deviations could undermine development outcomes and fiscal discipline. Adding his voice, the Chairman of the NDPC, Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, commended the Greater Accra Region for becoming the first to achieve full certification of Medium-Term Development Plans for all its MMDAs for the 2026–2029 period. However, he cautioned that certification alone is not enough. “Certification is not the end of the process; it is the beginning of disciplined implementation,” Dr. Nii Moi Thompson stated. “The real measure of success is whether these plans improve service delivery, strengthen local economies, and enhance the living standards of our people.” He further called on assemblies to move beyond compliance and focus on measurable impact, institutional efficiency, and accountability in execution, while addressing persistent challenges such as weak institutional capacity, budget fragmentation, revenue mobilisation constraints, and poor spatial planning. The engagement highlighted Greater Accra’s milestone as a model for other regions, while reinforcing the need for disciplined implementation to translate plans into tangible development outcomes. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, has highlighted the critical role women play in Ghana’s open-space business ecosystem, describing them as the driving force behind one of the country’s most vibrant economic segments. According to findings from the Ghana Statistical Service’s Integrated Business Establishment Survey I (IBES I), women dominate the open-space economy, accounting for nearly 80 percent of the workforce and owning about 84 percent of such businesses nationwide. Dr. Iddrisu noted that open-space enterprises, which include roadside vendors, market traders, and informal food sellers, form a significant part of Ghana’s business landscape. Out of the 2.64 million businesses recorded in 2024, about 693,748 operate in open spaces, employing over 922,000 people. He emphasised that these businesses are not only widespread but essential to daily life, with nearly 68 percent engaged in retail food trade—ensuring the steady supply of food and beverages directly to households across the country. “Women are the backbone of Ghana’s open-space economy,” Dr. Iddrisu stated, underscoring their central role in sustaining livelihoods, supporting families, and driving grassroots economic activity. The Government Statistician further revealed that more than 99 percent of open-space businesses are Ghanaian-owned, making them a strong pillar of domestic enterprise and a key contributor to inclusive economic growth. He added that the inclusion of open-space and mobile businesses in official data for the first time marks a major step toward shaping policies that reflect the realities of Ghana’s largely informal economy. Story by: Hawa Abubakar

Media practitioners have been urged to prioritise accuracy, sensitivity and responsible storytelling in their coverage of disasters, as stakeholders emphasise the critical role of information in saving lives and supporting recovery efforts. This call was made during a Media Engagement Workshop held in Accra by the Ghana Red Cross Society as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration with the media and enhance public awareness of humanitarian interventions across the country. Programmes Coordinator of the Ghana Red Cross Society, Jeremiah Afako, underscored the power of information during emergencies, describing it as a key element of safety. “During a disaster, information is like safety. As journalists, we must ensure that whatever we put out is accurate and does not escalate situations, but rather helps to calm tensions and mitigate the impact on affected communities,” he stated. He explained that the initiative was designed to sensitise journalists to their dual role as both information disseminators and advocates, whose work can influence timely decisions by authorities and humanitarian actors. According to Mr. Afako, the narratives presented by the media can either deepen the distress of victims or serve as a pathway to hope and recovery. “Our storytelling must go beyond the destruction and pain. It should highlight resilience, inspire hope and support efforts to rebuild lives,” he added, while encouraging journalists to engage directly with affected communities to amplify their voices. On her part, Vice President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Rebecca Ekpe, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the nature of information shared during crises can either stabilise or worsen situations. “As journalists, we must be mindful that what we put out during disasters should be factual, measured and aimed at mitigating, not escalating, the situation,” she said. Madam Ekpe further noted that journalism in times of crisis must be both people-centred and solution-oriented, focusing on narratives that empower communities and support recovery. She urged media practitioners to move beyond official accounts and incorporate the lived experiences of affected persons into their reportage, while avoiding sensationalism and content that could incite fear or division. Highlighting the balance between press freedom and ethical responsibility, she stated that while journalists have a mandate to promote freedom of expression, it must be exercised with professionalism and a deep sense of accountability. The workshop also provided practical insights into humanitarian reporting, including first aid and CPR awareness, as well as updates on the Red Cross’ operations and future plans. The Ghana Red Cross Society continues to rely on strong partnerships with the media. It believes the media will amplify its mission of alleviating human suffering and building resilient communities across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana, through the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skill Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, has commenced a nationwide registration exercise targeting small-scale miners and artisanal mining groups. The initiative follows a successful pilot phase in the Western and Western North Regions and is aimed at formalising and regulating the small-scale mining sector, which remains a major source of livelihood for millions of Ghanaians. According to a statement issued by the National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, the programme seeks to transform informal artisanal mining groups into legally recognised cooperatives. This, she explained, will ensure compliance with existing mining regulations while promoting accountability and environmental sustainability. As part of the process, selected mining sites will undergo detailed geological assessments to determine their mineral potential and economic viability. This is expected to ensure that registered cooperatives operate on concessions capable of sustaining productive and responsible mining activities. The registration exercise will be conducted in four phases. Field teams will first capture detailed information of cooperative members, including national identification and contact details. This will be followed by technical evaluations involving geological validation, terrain stability checks, and environmental risk assessments, particularly in areas such as water usage, waste management, and ore processing. Qualified groups will then be issued a six-month Temporary Operating Permit to begin operations under strict supervision while working towards full licensing. Final approvals will be granted after a comprehensive review by rCOMSDEP and the Minerals Commission. The exercise will also involve key regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Authority and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, which will undertake field inspections necessary for environmental clearances and mining licences. Government says registered cooperatives will benefit from continuous technical support and monitoring to ensure adherence to best practices and environmental standards as outlined in the Cabinet-approved rCOMSDEP framework. Additionally, the initiative will provide the state with a verified database of miners, enabling gold purchases through the Ghana Gold Board to ensure traceability and legitimacy within the supply chain. The statement emphasised that the success of the programme will depend heavily on collaboration with Traditional Authorities and local government leaders, whose roles are considered critical in mobilising participation across mining communities. Small-scale miners and artisanal groups across the country have therefore been urged to cooperate fully with officials and present the required documentation during the registration process. Government believes the exercise presents a significant opportunity for miners to transition into the formal economy, gain legal recognition, and contribute to the sustainable development of Ghana’s mining sector. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has held a mission accomplishment parade in honour of the Army Engineer Reconstruction Team (ERT) Company 1 at the 48 Engineers Parade Square, Wajir Barracks in Teshie. The ceremony, held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, celebrated the successful return of the 54-member engineering contingent, which was deployed to Jamaica on December 16, 2025, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The team was officially welcomed back by the President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, John Dramani Mahama, who commended the soldiers for their professionalism, discipline, and dedication throughout the mission. In his address, President Mahama noted that the deployment formed part of Ghana’s commitment to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. He added that the mission had further strengthened bilateral relations between Ghana, Jamaica, and other Caribbean nations. During the parade, the President presented a citation to the contingent in recognition of their outstanding service and the successful execution of their mandate, which contributed significantly to recovery efforts and improved living conditions in affected communities. He also praised the Officer Commanding the unit, Colonel Emmanuel Asia, for his exemplary leadership, describing it as a reflection of the high standards of the Ghana Armed Forces. The 90-day mission focused on reconstruction efforts in Saint Elizabeth Parish, including communities such as Middle Quarters, Black River, and Thorton, where damaged homes were restored. Also present at the ceremony were the Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, service chiefs, senior military officers, families of the troops, and pupils from schools within the Wajir Barracks enclave. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Five selected schools from Antoa Township in the Kwabre East Municipality of the Ashanti Region have successfully completed a one-day familiarisation visit to Accra, following an invitation by the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong. The visit, which took place on Monday, March 16, 2026, brought together a 50-member delegation led by the Asunahene of Antoa, Nana Sarkodie Dartey. The delegation comprised 40 students, five staff members, and five community representatives. Participating schools included Antoa Municipal Assembly Primary and Junior High School, CB Mensah SDA Junior High School, Adesina M/A Basic School, and Antoa United Primary School. As part of the visit, the delegation witnessed the 47th ceremonial guard changing at the Jubilee House, the seat of government. They later proceeded to the General Headquarters of the Ghana Armed Forces, where they engaged in an interactive session with Lt Gen Agyapong. The session was aimed at inspiring the students while strengthening the relationship between young learners and the military. Lt Gen Agyapong shared insights from his professional journey, emphasising the importance of discipline, character development, and national pride. He encouraged the students to take their education seriously, noting that academic discipline remains the foundation for future success. He also urged them to anchor their aspirations in faith and respect for authority. The delegation further toured the 153 Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment, where they were introduced to its role in national defence. The visit offered students a rare firsthand experience of military operations, including exposure to armoured vehicles and a passenger ride in some of them. A highlight of the tour was a captivating silent drill display, showcasing the precision and professionalism of the military. Expressing his appreciation, Nana Sarkodie Dartey described the visit as a historic and memorable experience for the people of Antoa. He noted that it was the first time such an opportunity had been extended by an indigene of the town and said the experience would remain unforgettable, particularly for the students. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, has provided a detailed assessment of Ghana’s industrial sector, noting that although the sector recorded some improvement, it continues to face significant constraints that could limit its contribution to overall economic growth. Presenting the latest data, Dr. Iddrisu explained that the industry sector grew by 1.9% in the fourth quarter of 2025, a notable increase from the marginal 0.3% growth recorded in the same period in 2024. This, he said, reflects a gradual recovery within parts of the sector, particularly in manufacturing and energy. However, he was quick to caution that the gains remain fragile. According to him, the overall performance of the sector was heavily weighed down by a sharp contraction in oil and gas production, which declined by 16.8% during the period under review. This downturn significantly offset the positive contributions from other industrial sub-sectors. Dr. Iddrisu highlighted that manufacturing emerged as a key bright spot, expanding by 6.1%, driven by increased production activities and demand in certain segments of the economy. Similarly, the electricity sub-sector recorded a growth of 7.2%, reflecting improvements in power generation and supply stability. Despite these positive developments, he stressed that the industrial sector’s growth remains uneven and vulnerable to external and structural shocks, particularly those affecting extractive industries such as oil, gas, and mining. He further explained that the continued underperformance of the oil and gas sub-sector underscores the need for targeted policy interventions, investment in efficiency, and diversification within the industry space. Strengthening value addition, improving infrastructure, and enhancing productivity in manufacturing will be critical to reducing overreliance on volatile extractive resources. Dr. Iddrisu emphasized that a more resilient and balanced industrial sector is essential for sustaining Ghana’s broader economic growth, especially as the country increasingly relies on non-oil sectors to drive expansion. He concluded that while the recent figures point to a modest rebound, deliberate and sustained efforts will be required to address the structural bottlenecks hindering the sector and unlock its full potential. Story by: Hawa Abubakar

Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister for Health has inaugurated Advisory Boards for Nursing and Midwifery Training Colleges across Ghana, stressing the need for stronger governance, improved training quality, and strict adherence to regulatory standards within the country’s health education system. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, the Minister described the event as a significant step toward repositioning health training institutions to meet the growing and evolving demands of Ghana’s healthcare sector. “This ceremony is not merely an administrative exercise. It is a clear statement of our national commitment to strengthening the governance, quality, and strategic direction of health professional education in Ghana,” the Minister stated. He emphasised that while infrastructure and equipment remain important, the quality of healthcare ultimately depends on the competence of health professionals trained within these institutions. According to him, the government, under the Mahama administration, is prioritising reforms aimed at modernising health training institutions to respond to emerging health challenges, including the rise in non-communicable diseases, increased demand for emergency care, and the need for specialised services. As part of these reforms, the Minister announced the introduction of six specialised post-basic Bachelor of Science nursing programmes in collaboration with the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and the University of Cape Coast. The programmes include Cardiology, Critical Care, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Oncology, and Emergency Nursing, and are being rolled out in selected institutions nationwide. He further disclosed that government is working towards transitioning health training institutions into degree-awarding colleges to enhance academic standards and professional progression. Currently, about 42 institutions have completed the necessary assessments and are awaiting accreditation to begin degree programmes. To improve teaching quality, the Ministry has also secured scholarship opportunities for tutors to pursue PhD studies, with the first batch of beneficiaries expected to be announced soon. On student welfare, the Minister noted that nursing trainee allowances are now being paid regularly and monthly. He added that the government’s “No-Fee-Stress” policy, which covers first-year tertiary students, including nursing and midwifery trainees, is aimed at reducing financial barriers and expanding access to professional education. However, the Minister issued a strong warning to principals of training institutions, directing them to strictly adhere to approved admission quotas and only enrol students into accredited programmes. “Any Principal who disregards approved quotas or admits students into unaccredited programmes undermines quality assurance and the integrity of our health education system,” he cautioned. He stressed that disciplinary action would be taken against any institutional head who flouts directives from the Ministry, adding that no institution should introduce new programmes without prior authorisation. Turning to the newly inaugurated Advisory Board members, the Minister urged them to uphold transparency, accountability, and high academic standards while ensuring that institutions are managed in the national interest. “You are being entrusted with an important governance mandate at a critical time. Your role is to provide oversight and strategic direction to ensure these institutions deliver quality outcomes,” he said. He concluded by calling for collaboration, discipline, and a shared national vision in strengthening Ghana’s health training institutions to produce skilled, compassionate, and professional healthcare workers. The inauguration forms part of broader efforts by the Ministry of Health to reform the country’s healthcare training system and improve service delivery nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Coalition of Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities has issued a strong ultimatum to government, threatening a nationwide demonstration if its members are not offered employment opportunities by March 24. Addressing a press conference in Accra on Monday, March 16, the group expressed deep frustration over the continued exclusion of qualified persons with disabilities from the job market, despite possessing the requisite academic credentials. Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Princess Mensah noted that the situation persists in spite of the provisions of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2006 (Act 715), which guarantees equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. The coalition described the challenge as a systemic issue, citing entrenched barriers that continue to hinder access to employment across both public and private sectors. “We demand an immediate and clearly defined roadmap for unemployed graduates with disabilities in Ghana,” the Coalition of Unemployed Graduates with Disabilities stated, urging government to take decisive steps to address their concerns. The group further called for the full implementation and enforcement of employment quotas for persons with disabilities across all regions, warning that failure to act promptly could trigger widespread protests. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has directed a significant increase in recruitment across Ghana’s security agencies, raising the intake from 20,000 to 40,000 personnel over a four-year period. The directive was issued following a high-level meeting between the President and heads of the various security agencies, alongside the Minister for the Interior and the Acting Minister for Defence. The meeting focused on reviewing the ongoing recruitment process and strengthening the country’s security framework. After receiving a detailed briefing, President Mahama emphasized the need to scale up recruitment to enhance national security capacity while creating more employment opportunities for the youth. He further instructed the leadership of the security agencies to ensure strict transparency and fairness throughout the recruitment process, stressing that integrity must remain central to all engagements. The meeting was attended by key government and security officials, including the Chief of Staff, Secretary to the President, Senior Presidential Advisor on Governmental Affairs, National Security Coordinator, Inspector General of Police, Director-General of Prisons, Director-General of the Fire Service, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, and the Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission. The development was confirmed in a statement issued by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Member of Parliament and Spokesperson to the President, who also serves as Minister for Government Communications. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A Senior Delegation from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) traveled to Accra, Ghana, for a series of high-level engagements with the Ghana Police Service (GPS), reinforcing the growing partnership between the two police institutions and advancing discussions on operational cooperation, professional exchange, and modern policing practices. The delegation was formally received at Police Headquarters by Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, Inspector-General of Police of Ghana, together with members of the Police Management Board (POMAB). During the meeting, the NYPD delegation and the IGP held extensive discussions with POMAB focused on contemporary policing challenges and opportunities for cooperation between the two departments. The dialogue centered on several core themes relevant to modern law enforcement. Both sides exchanged perspectives on the employment of technology in policing, including data-driven policing models, digital investigative tools, and integrated intelligence platforms used to support operational decision-making. The delegations also discussed officer safety and welfare, emphasizing the importance of training, equipment, and institutional support systems that protect officers while enhancing operational effectiveness. Another significant component of the discussions addressed police accountability within a democratic dispensation. The NYPD delegation shared experiences and institutional practices regarding transparency, internal oversight, and community trust, while Ghana Police Service leadership highlighted reforms and accountability mechanisms within Ghana’s policing framework. A key topic during the meetings was the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the NYPD and the Ghana Police Service. Both sides reviewed the framework for strengthening institutional cooperation and facilitating sustained engagement between the two organizations. The discussions emphasized information sharing, training opportunities, and collaboration on transnational crime investigations. Beyond meetings with the Police Management Board, the NYPD delegation conducted working engagements with several operational units of the Ghana Police Service. The team met with senior officials from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the INTERPOL Accra National Central Bureau, and the Police Intelligence Directorate, where discussions focused on investigative cooperation, intelligence coordination, and the evolving threat landscape related to transnational criminal activity. The delegation also toured the Joint Operations Center (JOC) at Police Headquarters, receiving a briefing on Ghana’s integrated command and control capabilities used to coordinate nationwide policing operations, incident response, and intelligence monitoring. One of the most forward-looking outcomes of the visit was the discussion between the IGP and POMAB regarding officer exchange programs between the two institutions. The leadership discussed placement of a senior NYPD detective at Ghana Police Service Headquarters in Accra, as well as the embedding of a senior Ghana Police Service officer within the NYPD Intelligence Bureau in New York. The proposed exchanges are intended to deepen operational collaboration, strengthen investigative partnerships, and build institutional familiarity between the two departments. In addition to engagements within the Ghana Police Service, the NYPD delegation held courtesy meetings with the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, and leadership of the National Intelligence Bureau, led by Director-General Charles Alhassan Kipo, where discussions focused on national security coordination, intelligence sharing, and broader cooperation between Ghanaian and U.S. law enforcement and security partners. The delegation also paid a courtesy call on the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Accra, Rolf Olson. The visit represents a continuation of growing cooperation between the Ghana Police Service: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified following a major conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States, as earlier warnings by Ghanaian cleric Prophet Eric Boahen Uche about a possible global war resurface. The founder and leader of Reign House Chapel International, Prophet Uche, during his December 31, 2025 watchnight service, issued a series of prophecies concerning rising global tensions and increased military spending among powerful nations. According to the prophecy, the world should be concerned about the growing investments in weapons of mass destruction by several countries, warning that a single mistake could trigger a catastrophic global conflict. Speaking during the service, Prophet Uche said he had seen several nations increasing their spending on dangerous weapons and urged the world to pray to avert a potential third world war. He listed countries including India, Iran, Israel, Pakistan, Russia, the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, North Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, France and Germany as nations heavily investing in weapons capable of mass destruction. He warned that if any of these countries mistakenly launched such weapons against another nation, the consequences could be devastating. “We need to pray to avoid the third world war. Don't take my prophecy as a joke. “These countries are spending much to buy weapons. If any mistake one of these countries launched by one of these weapons to another country, get ready for third world war. I call for mercy and for God to redeem the world, “Prophet Uche cautioned. He further revealed that he had seen tensions among Arab nations escalating in 2026, potentially leading to conflicts within the region. The prophecy has gained renewed attention as the ongoing war involving Iran, Israel and the United States continues to escalate. The conflict, which began after joint US and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets nearly two weeks ago, has reportedly killed about 2,000 people, mostly in Iran and Lebanon. Despite heavy bombardments described by the Pentagon as some of the most intense strikes since the conflict began, Iran has continued to retaliate with missile and drone attacks across the Middle East. It may be recalled that, shortly after explosions were reported in the Iranian capital, US President Donald Trump took to social media to accuse Tehran of waging an "unending campaign of bloodshed and mass murder targeting the United States". Trump argued Iran had rejected every opportunity to renounce its nuclear programme and claimed it was developing long-range missiles that could threaten Europe, US troops overseas, and even "soon reach the American homeland". He further cited the violent takeover of the US embassy in Tehran in 1979, resulting in dozens of Americans being held hostage for 444 days, as well as Iran's proxies bombing a US Marine barracks in Beirut in 1983 that killed 241. The US president had also pledged in January to intervene when Iranian security forces crushed protests amid an economic crisis. In June last year, the US bombed three nuclear facilities in Iran. Trump said the US Operation Midnight Hammer had "obliterated" Iran's nuclear programme. Last summer's US attacks paved the way for a ceasefire in a 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel. Israel had launched air strikes on Iranian nuclear, military and infrastructure sites. Tehran had retaliated by firing hundreds of rockets and drones at Israel. Meanwhile, Iran warned that global oil prices could surge to $200 per barrel, particularly as tensions around the strategic Strait of Hormuz continue to escalate. Credit: Pastor Uche NB: Views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and not those of the publisher.