Ghana News
Ghana News Live Updates – January 9: Catch up on all the major local news
Stay informed with the latest news from Ghana as developments unfold across politics, education, public safety, and social affairs. Our rolling updates will provide timely coverage of major events and government actions. Check back regularly as we bring you verified reports as they happen.
Franklin Cudjoe Lauded for Parkinson’s Disclosure

Renowned policy analyst and founder of the influential think tank, IMANI Center for Policy and Education, Franklin Cudjoe is being widely praised for courageously sharing his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, with public figures and health advocates applauding his openness. Supporters say his disclosure is helping break stigma around the condition and encouraging others living with Parkinson’s to speak out and seek treatment. This moment captures the growing conversation about chronic illness and public awareness in Ghana.
24-Hour Reforms Driving Revenue Growth at Ghana Publishing
Moving from personal health revelation to economic news, the Ghana Publishing Company is reporting a boost in revenue following recent reforms under the new 24-hour economy initiative. The company’s Managing Director says extended operating hours are increasing sales and enhancing access to publications, signaling positive early impacts of the broader economic strategy aimed at stimulating business activity across sectors.
President Mahama Announces 24-Hour Authority Imminent
President John Mahama is confirming the imminent establishment of a new 24-Hour Authority, a body expected to regulate and implement Ghana’s ambitious 24-hour economy blueprint. The move is intended to institutionalize extended operations, streamline licensing, and support businesses operating around the clock—further strengthening the economic reforms that are now showing early results.
Ablakwa Commends Ukraine as Ghana Advocates for Captured Citizen
Foreign Affairs Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa is commending Ukraine for its resilience, while also pressing for the release of a Ghanaian citizen captured during the ongoing conflict there. The Ghanaian was captured as part of the prisoners of war captured while allegedly fighting for Russia. The statement reflects Ghana’s growing role on the global stage, balancing solidarity with international partners and the protection of its nationals abroad.
Ghana Pushing Structured Trade and Tariff Flexibility in US Talks
Ghana is advocating for a structured trade framework and greater tariff flexibility in ongoing discussions with the United States. Government officials are seeking trade arrangements that will enhance market access for Ghanaian goods, support value-added exports, and deepen economic ties with one of Africa’s key external partners. The move is seen as part of Ghana’s broader strategy to attract investment and expand its global trade footprint.
Effiduasehene Nana Adu Ameyaw II Passes On

Ghana is mourning the passing of Effiduasehene Nana Adu Ameyaw II, as reports are confirming the death of the respected traditional ruler. Residents in Effiduase and beyond are remembering him for his leadership, community development efforts, and role in preserving cultural heritage.
Tributes are continuing to pour in as arrangements for traditional rites are anticipated.
Mahama Is Rolling Out Foreign-Built Housing Plan for Security Services
Meanwhile, President John Mahama is unveiling an ambitious foreign-built housing program aimed at improving accommodation for police and military personnel. The initiative is being framed as a long-term investment in national security, welfare, and morale, with government officials describing it as a major upgrade to barracks infrastructure nationwide.
“No Hiding Place” — Mahama Issues Strong Warning to Criminals

In a firm security message, President Mahama is warning criminals who injure or kill police officers that there will be “no hiding place” for them. The president is reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting law enforcement officers, as security agencies intensify operations against violent crime.
Anidaso Foundation Condemns Parkinson’s Disease Stigma
On the social front, the Anidaso Foundation is pushing back against stigma surrounding Parkinson’s disease following a public disclosure by policy analyst Franklin Cudjoe. The foundation is stressing that Parkinson’s is not a weakness, urging empathy, understanding, and public education to combat discrimination against those living with the condition.
Atta Akyea Says Constituency Demands Are His Toughest Political Test
Former MP Atta Akyea is opening up about the pressures of public office, describing incessant demands on his personal resources as the most difficult hurdle he faced as a legislator. His comments are sparking wider conversation about the financial expectations placed on MPs by constituents.
Amasaman Residents Are Appealing Over Dangerous Roads
Turning to infrastructure, residents of Amasaman are raising alarm over deteriorating roads, describing them as dangerous and life-threatening. Community members are calling on the government to urgently intervene, warning that the poor road conditions are affecting transportation, safety, and local economic activity.
Minority Is Slamming Mahama’s First Year Despite Economic Gains
And in politics, the Minority in Parliament is sharply criticising President Mahama’s first year in office, arguing that progress has been underwhelming despite acknowledged economic improvements.
Ofori-Atta US Detention Update

Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s US detention is being actively addressed. His lawyer, Frank Davies, confirmed that efforts are ongoing to resolve the matter diplomatically and ensure swift outcomes. The lawyer also said the former minister is in constant consultation with his medical team, who may advise that he remains in the U.S. for further treatment or monitoring.
GTEC Restores Recognition for Accountancy Institute
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has reinstated recognition for the Institute of Chartered Accountants, ensuring its qualifications remain officially valid and strengthening professional standards in the sector.

The decision comes after months of review over regulatory compliance and academic standards. By reinstating recognition, GTEC ensures that ICA-certified professionals can continue to operate fully in both the public and private sectors, protecting the careers of thousands of Ghanaian accountants.
Restoring the institute’s recognition also underscores Ghana’s commitment to professional standards and global competitiveness. Chartered accountants play a vital role in auditing, financial management, and corporate governance, sectors critical to economic growth and foreign investment.
GTEC earlier withdrew recognition of ICAG after its newly appointed CEO reportedly continued using an academic “Dr” title despite a directive to stop. GTEC found discrepancies and unverifiable credentials related to the doctoral title claimed by CEO Eric Oduro Osae, leading to the derecognition of the professional body until corrective action was taken.
SSNIT Announces Pension Increase
The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) approved a 10% increase in pension payments for 2026, benefiting retirees across Ghana and supporting financial security for senior citizens.
Former Finance Minister Urges Bold Economic Decisions
Former Finance Minister Kwaku Kwarteng advised President John Mahama to take tough economic decisions without fear, stressing the importance of strong policy choices to stabilize the economy. His advice follows widespread praise for the president for improving Ghana’s economy significantly just one year after taking over from the previous administration that Mr Kwarteng himself served in.
Forestry Officer Killed in Volta Reserve
The Forestry Commission condemned the killing of an officer in the Volta Forest Reserve. The tragic incident highlights the continued risks faced by environmental and conservation staff amid illegal activities in protected areas.
Professor Nana Aba Amfo Appointed ACU Council Chair
On the higher education front, Prof. Nana Aba Amfo has been named Chair of the African Council for Universities (ACU), marking a significant milestone for Ghanaian leadership in continental academic governance.
Ghana Publishing Recognized for 24-Hour Operations
President John Mahama commended Ghana Publishing for adopting 24-hour operations early, praising the initiative for improving access to educational and informational resources nationwide.
Anti-Corruption Efforts Highlighted

Vice President Prof. Opoku Agyemang stated that fighting corruption remains a national priority under the current administration, stressing the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
She made the remarks while addressing the 93rd Jalsa Salana of the National Convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission on Wednesday, January 8, at Gomoa Pomadze in the Central Region.
“A nation is strengthened by moral courage and ethical consistency. As citizens, we serve our country when we stand for what is right, speak against injustice, and uphold values in both public and private lives,” she said.
Bawumia Leading in NPP Primaries
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, a key contender in the upcoming NPP presidential primaries, is projected to secure over 65% support at the polls, according to one of his campaign. The projection is meant to highlight the strong backing the former vice president enjoys in the party. The residential primaries will he held on January 31, 2026.
Suspected Arson in Assin Fosu Claims Life
Bizarre news, as authorities confirm a man was burnt to death in a suspected arson attack at Assin Fosu, intensifying calls for improved public safety measures and law enforcement vigilance.
Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings Honors Father’s Legacy
MP Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings stated that her father’s recently installed statue serves as an admonition to Ghanaians to live by his ideals of probity and accountability.
Kade SHS Tutor Assault Case
Five individuals have been remanded after pleading guilty to assaulting a tutor at Kade Senior High School. The incident heightens ongoing concerns around student and teacher safety in Ghanaian schools situated far away from the capital.
Check back regularly as we bring you verified reports as they happen.
Ghana News
Ghana to Open New Embassy in Singapore in Bid To Strengthen Trade Ties with Asia
Accra, Ghana – The Government of Ghana has formally initiated high-level diplomatic engagements with Singapore to establish a permanent embassy in the Asian financial and technology hub, marking a strategic expansion of its global diplomatic presence.
The announcement follows a working visit by a Ghanaian delegation led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs James Gyakye Quayson to Singapore from April 10 to 15, 2026.
During discussions with Singapore’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Social and Family Development, Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim, Ghana officially conveyed its intention to open a resident mission.
The proposed embassy aims to enhance consular services for Ghanaian nationals, facilitate trade and investment flows, and deepen institutional cooperation in technology, capacity building, and economic development.
This move forms part of a broader foreign policy drive by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to establish new diplomatic missions and permanent chanceries in strategic locations, while reducing heavy reliance on rented premises that currently cost the state around $15 million annually.
Earlier commitments outlined at the 2025 Conference of Heads of Mission include opening missions in Massachusetts (USA), Dublin (Ireland), Lisbon (Portugal), and Singapore by 2026. Recent developments under this agenda include the opening of a new chancery in Ethiopia in February and planned missions in Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Serbia, and Hungary.
Singaporean authorities welcomed the proposal and expressed strong commitment to expanding bilateral ties with Ghana. Officials from both sides see the new mission as a platform to boost South-South cooperation and tap into Asia’s dynamic economic opportunities.
The establishment of the embassy is expected to be completed within the government’s 2026 diplomatic expansion timeline.
Ghana News
Pope Leo XIV Strongly Criticises Foreign Exploitation of Africa During Visit to Conflict-Hit Cameroon
Bamenda, Cameroon – Pope Leo XIV has delivered a sharp rebuke against foreign entities exploiting Africa’s natural resources for profit, describing it as a major driver of instability and suffering during his visit to the conflict-ridden city of Bamenda in Cameroon.
Speaking to an estimated 20,000 worshippers at a Mass held at Bamenda Airport on Thursday, the pontiff said outsiders “in the name of profit, continue to lay their hands on the African continent to exploit and plunder it.”
He added that those who rob Africa of its resources often invest the profits in weapons, “thus perpetuating an endless cycle of destabilisation and death.”
The remarks form part of a series of unusually forthright statements made during his ongoing 11-day tour of Africa, which has also included pointed calls for the Cameroonian government to root out corruption to achieve lasting peace.
The Pope’s visit to Bamenda, a focal point of Cameroon’s nearly decade-long separatist rebellion in its English-speaking regions, comes as he seeks to promote peace and reconciliation. The conflict has claimed at least 6,000 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands.
At a peace meeting earlier in the day at Saint Joseph’s Cathedral, Leo described the world as being “ravaged by a handful of tyrants” and urged obedience to God over human authority. He commended local religious leaders and victims for their efforts to maintain interfaith harmony, noting that the crisis had not degenerated into a religious war.
The visit is the first by any pope to predominantly Muslim Algeria earlier in the week and continues to Angola and Equatorial Guinea.
Analysts say Leo’s strong focus on Africa early in his pontificate reflects the continent’s growing importance to the Catholic Church, where more than 20% of the world’s Catholics now reside and where the faith is expanding fastest.
Ghana News
Morocco Gifts 2,000 Metric Tons of Fertilizer to Ghana Amid Global Shortage
Accra, Ghana – The Kingdom of Morocco has donated 2,000 metric tons of fertilizer to Ghana in a significant gesture aimed at bolstering the country’s agricultural productivity and food security amid global supply chain challenges.
The donation comes amid a severe global fertiliser shortage, driven by the Iran conflict and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict has blocked approximately 30% of global urea and phosphate trade, causing prices to surge by up to 85%, threatening a 10–15% drop in crop yields.
The global fertilizer crisis is heavily affecting importers in East Africa, India, and beyond, raising severe food security risks.

The fertilizer consignment from Morocco was officially received on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, during a ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra. Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa welcomed the donation, describing it as timely and reflective of the deepening bilateral ties between Ghana and Morocco.
He noted that this marks the second such consignment from Morocco and revealed that discussions are ongoing for potential collaboration on local fertilizer production to ensure long-term self-reliance.
Morocco’s Ambassador to Ghana, Imane Ouaadil, described the donation as a continuation of Morocco’s commitment to supporting agricultural development across Africa. She emphasised that the fertilizer would help Ghanaian farmers improve productivity, build resilience against climate change and rising input costs, and contribute to national food security goals. The Chief Director at Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Khadijah Iddrisu, added that the support represents a practical outcome of sustained diplomatic engagement and would directly aid ongoing efforts to boost agricultural output.
The donation comes as Ghana intensifies efforts to reduce dependence on imported inputs and enhance domestic agricultural value chains.
Beyond agriculture, both countries are exploring expanded cooperation in areas such as visa facilitation and sports development to strengthen people-to-people relations further.
The move underscores Morocco’s growing role as a key partner in supporting African nations’ efforts to achieve food sovereignty and sustainable development.
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