Ghana News
Top Ghana News Headlines Across Major News Outlets (Jan. 3, 2026)
Stay informed with the most relevant stories shaping Ghana today, January 3, 2026 — from economic policy to public safety, political developments, and regional news with global interest.
1. Local Resentment Over Diaspora-Driven Inflation
There’s growing local frustration in Ghana over the rising cost of living linked to increased diaspora spending and investment activity. Residents in Accra and other urban areas say property prices, rents, and services are being priced in foreign currency, which fuels inflation and makes everyday goods less affordable for locals. Critics argue that while diaspora inflows boost foreign exchange and tourism, they also heighten socioeconomic divides unless balanced by a broad-based economic policy.
2. Why Ghana’s Diaspora Return Dreams Are Shifting
A growing narrative suggests that the long-held ideal of returning to Ghana permanently may be fading for many in the diaspora. What began with the 2019 Year of Return has been succeeded by evolving reality checks over cost of living, infrastructure challenges, cultural adjustment, and economic opportunity. While government initiatives seek to deepen engagement and encourage investment, some returnees and potential returnees are reconsidering or slowing plans due to practical obstacles, including inflation and lifestyle differences.
3. Ghana Declares January 9 Public Holiday
The Ghanaian government has designated January 9 as a national public holiday in 2026. The move honors significant national observances and gives citizens a chance to commemorate Ghana’s history and civic milestones. Officials say the holiday will foster unity and reflection at the start of the new year, bolstering national pride amid ongoing development efforts.
4. Major Fire Destroys Shops at Kwame Nkrumah Circle
A fire broke out at the bustling Kwame Nkrumah Circle commercial hub, ravaging multiple retail shops and triggering a large-scale emergency response. Firefighters battled to contain the blaze as vendors and customers watched anxiously. No deaths have been confirmed, but losses in stock and business infrastructure are significant. Officials are investigating the cause as commerce resumes in the area.
5. Man Found Dead After Going Missing in Talensi
A missing man in Ghana’s Talensi District was found dead days after he disappeared. Community members and police initiated a search following his reported absence, and authorities have begun inquiries into the circumstances surrounding his death. This underscores safety and investigative challenges in remote districts.
6. 31 Persons Remanded Over Apamprama Forest Reserve Invasion
Thirty-one individuals have been remanded over their alleged involvement in the illegal invasion of the Apamprama Forest Reserve. The nationals appeared in court as part of broader efforts to protect forest reserves from encroachment, illegal logging, and environmental destruction. Prosecutors argue that safeguarding natural resources is critical for sustainability and community livelihoods.
7. Gold Prices Help Cedi Break 30-Year Losing Streak
Ghana’s cedi currency has shown historic strength, breaking a decades-long pattern of year-end depreciation thanks in part to gold price gains and increased foreign exchange inflows. Analysts say the rebound is tied to remittances and seasonal trade, providing rare relief for consumers and businesses. Economic watchers say this could signal broader improvement in Ghana’s financial stability.
8. Strong Cocoa Supply Lifts Prices, Boosting Farmers
Ghana’s cocoa sector recorded favorable crop conditions, tightening supply and lifting cocoa prices. The development boosts earnings for farmers and supports Ghana’s position as a leading cocoa producer globally. Agricultural stakeholders say this trend bodes well for rural incomes and export revenue in 2026.
9. NPP’s Ken Agyapong Calls for Unity Before Primaries
Veteran politician Kenneth Agyapong urged peace and unity within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ahead of internal primaries. In the call, Agyapong emphasized cohesive campaign conduct and internal dialogue to avoid fragmentation and strengthen the party’s readiness for upcoming national elections.
10. Fatal Bus Crash Leaves Two Dead, 21 Injured
A tragic bus accident involving members of the Second Chance Church has left two people dead and 21 injured. The crash occurred en route to a church program and has sparked concern about road safety standards. Emergency services continue to treat the injured while authorities investigate the cause.
11. Heavy Security at Ho Mosque After Closure
Heightened security measures were deployed around a central mosque in Ho following its temporary closure amid local tensions. Police and community leaders are working to ensure calm and order, citing the need to protect religious freedom while addressing public safety concerns.
12. Prophet Ebo Noah Remanded for Psychiatric Evaluation
A content creator who re-emerged as ‘Prophet Ebo Noah‘ was remanded by a court and ordered to undergo psychiatric evaluation amid charges related to previous actions. His case continues to draw public attention and legal scrutiny as his defense and prosecution prepare evidence.
13. Two Suspected Robbers Killed in Ashanti Gunfight
In the Ashanti Region, two suspected armed robbers were shot dead after a gunfight with police. The confrontation followed reports of criminal activity, and authorities say the incident highlights ongoing efforts to curb violent crime and protect communities.
14. Suspicious Aircraft Lands in Paga, Raising Security Alerts
A suspicious aircraft landing in Paga near the Burkina Faso border has triggered security concerns. Ghanaian authorities are investigating the unplanned arrival as part of heightened vigilance on cross-border airspace and illicit flights.
15. Renowned Lawyer Prof Kwaku Asare, aka Kwaku Azar Schools Police Over Charges Brought Against ‘Prophet Ebo Noah’
Prof Kwaku Azar has disagreed with the police over charges filed against ‘Prophet Ebo Noah’. The outspoken legal practitioner has raised legal errors, although the prosecution maintains the charges are valid. The case continues to unfold.
16. Ghana Arrests 17 Armed Burkinabé Soldiers
Security forces in Ghana arrested 17 heavily armed Burkinabé soldiers, raising questions about regional stability and cross-border security. Authorities say the suspects were detained without diplomatic clearance and are now under investigation for unlawful entry with weapons.
Welcome to our rolling news summary from Ghana. These stories reflect the nation’s landscape. Check back for more news updates as the day progresses and new information becomes available.
Ghanaian PhD Students in UK Begin Mass Withdrawals Over Unpaid Scholarships
Ghanaian PhD students in the UK are withdrawing from programs due to unpaid tuition and stipends for nearly two years, facing debt, evictions, and visa curtailments. The PhD Cohort-UK plans demonstrations at the Ghana High Commission in London and has petitioned UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for intervention. A student stated: “Our situation has reached a breaking point… If the fees aren’t paid by the end of this month, my Tier 4 visa will be curtailed, and I will be deported with nothing but debt.”
Prempeh College Students Caught in Violent Fistfight During School Competition
Prempeh College students engaged in a violent fistfight with Cadet Corps members during the 2026 Ashanti Regional Senior High Schools Boys’ Soccer Festival at Baba Yara Sports Stadium, as captured in a video shared on January 16, 2026, by SikaOfficial on and republished GhanaWeb. The incident has sparked public outrage over rising student indiscipline, with calls for arrests as a deterrent.
Ghana Navy Foils Illegal Fuel Bunkering Along Keta-Aflao Coast
The Ghana Navy conducted two raids dismantling illegal fuel bunkering operations in Volta Region, seizing 162 fuel-filled 25-litre gallons and 32 200-litre barrels on January 13, 2026, and intercepting seven modified canoes with 378 empty barrels on January 15, 2026. Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin reaffirmed commitment to maritime security, urging public cooperation to protect national security, marine biodiversity, and the blue economy.
Minister Calls for Inter-Ministerial Force to Fix Accra’s Rush-Hour Transit Crises
Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs Ahmed Ibrahim urged an inter-ministerial alliance with the Ministry of Roads to repair Accra’s intra-roads during a January 16, 2026, stakeholder meeting hosted by the Ministry of Transport. He warned private operators of government intervention if roads remain unmotorable, citing a €1 million grant for Ayalolo bus revival, and stated: “We need to bring my brother, the Road Minister, in so that the intra-roads that are not motorable are fixed.”
Ex-Manager Case: Black Sherif’s Contract Breach Deemed ‘Technical’ as Court Awards GH¢50k Instead of GH¢1.1m Demand
The High Court in Accra ruled Black Sherif’s contract breach with former manager Shadrach Owusu Agyei ‘technical’, awarding GH¢50k in nominal damages and GH¢15k in costs against the plaintiff, dismissing most claims due to lack of evidence, according to MyJoyOnline. Justice Afia Adu-Amankwa noted no proven substantial loss from the breach.
Esther Smith Refutes Claims Pastor Elvis Agyemang Charged for Prayers
Esther Smith’s management denied social media allegations that Pastor Elvis Agyemang of Alpha Hour charged for prayers, calling them false and explaining that no money was requested. They urged verification of facts and praised the pastor’s integrity: “At no point was any amount requested, demanded, or charged for prayers.”
Antoine Semenyo’s £65m Manchester City Switch Sparks Discussions in UK Parliament
Antoine Semenyo’s £65m transfer from AFC Bournemouth to Manchester City sparked UK Parliament discussions on January 15, 2026, with Labour MP Tom Hayes praising his farewell ad in the Bournemouth Echo, linking it to advocacy for raising social media age limits. Hayes called Semenyo “a superstar on the pitch and a gentleman off it.”
Ghana Eager to Change the Narrative at 2026 World Cup
After missing the 2025 AFCON, Ghana’s Black Stars qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, drawn in Group L with Croatia, England, and Panama. Coach Otto Addo aims for redemption with key players like Antoine Semenyo, Mohammed Kudus, and Thomas Partey.
GRA Launches AI-Powered System to Boost Revenue and Curb Customs Fraud
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) launched Publican AI on January 16, 2026, to enhance revenue and curb customs fraud using real-time analytics. Deputy Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem stated:
“The AI tool will help us achieve accurate duty determination,” while Commissioner-General Dr Anthony Sarpong added: “The Publican AI system will give us 100% coverage of assessment.”
Ken Ofori-Atta to Face Deportation – AG Discloses
Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine disclosed that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta faces high deportation risk from the US, with a January 20, 2026, immigration hearing. Ayine stated:
“The possibility is very high and he could either self-deport or face deportation by the immigration judge.”
Check back for more news updates as the day progresses and new information becomes available.
Ghana News
6-Year-Old U.S. Citizen Stuck in Nigeria Pleads with Trump to Let Adopted Sibling Come Home With Family
A heartfelt plea from 6-year-old Harriet Wilson is trending on social media as the young girl appeals directly to President Donald Trump to reverse a U.S. immigration policy that has left her family stranded in Nigeria with their adopted special-needs sibling, Ollie.
In a short video shared widely across social media, Harriet speaks on behalf of the Wilson family, explaining that they legally adopted Ollie nearly a year ago.
“Ollie is my baby. Ollie belongs to our family,” she says, her voice steady and sincere. “When we first came here, Ollie was really sick and small. We loved them and fed them and took care of them… and now they’re a happy toddler.”
The Wilsons have followed every legal step in the international adoption process and have been waiting patiently to bring Ollie home to the United States. However, Presidential Proclamation 10998, effective January 1, 2026, suspended or limited entry and visa issuance for nationals from 39 countries — including Nigeria — and removed previous categorical exemptions for adoption visas (IR-3, IR-4, IH-3, IH-4).
Harriet’s message is clear and deeply emotional:
“Some people say we could go back to America without Ollie, but that would mean leaving them at an orphanage, which we’re not going to do. My parents wouldn’t send me to an orphanage or any of my siblings. And we won’t leave Ollie at an orphanage either. So if Ollie can’t come to America, we can’t come to America. Our family stays together.”
Addressing President Trump directly, she adds:
“I know you make big decisions for our country, so I’m asking you with my whole heart, please change your mind. Please fix this mistake so that our baby can come home with us. Please, President Trump, help our family go home together.”
The Wilson family’s situation has become a focal point in discussions about the human impact of U.S. immigration restrictions on international adoptions, particularly from African nations. Hundreds of other adoptive families are reportedly facing similar barriers, with some children remaining in orphanages indefinitely.
The plea comes amid broader concerns among the African diaspora and global adoption communities about the effects of Proclamation 10998, which targets countries including Nigeria, Ghana, and several others in West and East Africa.
While non-immigrant visas (tourist, business, student) remain largely unaffected, the suspension of immigrant visa categories has created significant uncertainty for families pursuing permanent family reunification or adoption.
The Wilson family continues to call for public support — urging viewers to engage with the video, share their story, and contact U.S. senators and representatives to advocate for the reinstatement of adoption visa exemptions.
Watch Harriet’s full message here: Harriet Wilson’s Plea to President Trump
Ghana News
Ghana’s Former Finance Minister Ofori-Atta Declared ‘Illegal Alien’ in the U.S., Faces Possible Deportation
The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has officially confirmed that former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is classified as an “illegal alien” in the United States, having overstayed his visa following its revocation in mid-2025.
In a statement released on January 15, 2026, ICE detailed that Ofori-Atta, who remains in custody at the Caroline Detention Facility in Virginia, entered the U.S. on a temporary visa that expired, and he failed to depart or regularize his status.
The agency described him as an “illegal alien” under U.S. immigration law, a designation that significantly complicates his legal position amid Ghana’s ongoing extradition request, reports say.
Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister from 2017 to 2024 under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, faces 78 criminal charges in Ghana, including allegations of corruption, financial misconduct, and procurement irregularities tied to the Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) contract and payments for the National Cathedral project.
Ghana formally submitted its extradition request to the U.S. Department of Justice on December 10, 2025.
The ICE confirmation adds new pressure to the case, which has already sparked intense diplomatic engagement between Accra and Washington. Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa recently announced that U.S. authorities assured Ghana they would not block extradition proceedings for Ofori-Atta or fugitive former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe Attionu, signaling potential cooperation despite the immigration classification.
Legal experts note that the “illegal alien” status could accelerate removal proceedings, though Ofori-Atta’s defense team has filed a petition for adjustment of status and is challenging the detention.
A U.S. immigration court hearing is scheduled for January 20, 2026, where his case will be further reviewed.
The development continues to draw widespread attention in Ghana, fueling debates on accountability for public officials, the strength of bilateral relations, and the intersection of immigration enforcement with international justice.
Ofori-Atta’s case remains a major test of Ghana–U.S. diplomatic and law-enforcement ties under the Mahama administration’s anti-corruption and accountability drive.
African Diaspora Federal Credit Union Opens in Missouri: First U.S. Institution Dedicated to Empowering Global African Diaspora and Black Americans
Ghanaian PhD Students in UK Begin Mass Withdrawals Over Unpaid Scholarships, Facing Debt and Deportation
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