Ghana News
Ghana News Live Blog: Catch up on Key Updates
Rolling News Update for February 2, 2026. Welcome to the Rolling News Update from Ghana News Global—your reliable source for breaking developments in Ghana. Refresh for fresh updates as events unfold.
Only 2 of 25 Doctors Posted to Oti Region Report for Duty
Health officials in Ghana’s Oti Region are sounding the alarm after just two out of 25 newly posted medical doctors reported for duty, leaving multiple facilities critically understaffed. The Health Minister described the low reporting rate as “worrying,” especially given that some clinics currently operate without a single doctor. Authorities are urging local leaders to improve accommodation and incentives to attract medical professionals to rural areas as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in underserved regions.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/only-2-of-25-doctors-posted-to-oti-region-report-for-duty-health-minister-raises-alarm/
President Mahama Ranked 5th Most Powerful Global Figure in Development and Changemaking
Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has been ranked fifth on the 2026 Devex Power 50 list, placing him among the world’s most influential figures shaping global development and social change. The annual list highlights leaders whose influence extends beyond funding — including policy innovation and coalition-building — and Mahama was recognised for his advocacy on issues such as debt relief, trade reform, and climate finance, particularly through his Accra Reset agenda.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/president-mahama-ranked-5th-most-powerful-global-figure-in-development-and-changemaking/
3. Foreign Affairs Minister Arrives in Latvia to Investigate Death of Ghanaian Student
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has arrived in Latvia with a delegation — including forensic experts — to investigate the unclear circumstances surrounding the death of Ghanaian student Nana Agyei Ahyia. The minister said he will meet with Latvian authorities, including the ministries handling the case, to seek clarity and justice for the student’s family after the tragic incident.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/foreign-affairs-minister-arrives-in-latvia-to-investigate-death-of-ghanaian-student/
Police Arrest 2 for Allegedly Impersonating Sharaf Mahama
The Ghana Police Service in Yendi has arrested a man and a woman accused of impersonating Sharaf Mahama — son of Ghana’s president — on the social media platform TikTok. The suspects reportedly created a fake account under the name “Sheriff Mahama,” which gained thousands of followers. The police say the arrests are part of wider efforts to target online impersonation and cyber-related offenses; investigations are ongoing and the suspects are assisting with inquiry before they are brought to court.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/police-arrest-2-for-allegedly-impersonating-sharaf-mahama/
“I did not operate illegally” – NAM1 Tells Accra High Court
Businessman Nana Appiah Mensah — widely known as NAM1 — has told the Accra High Court that he did not operate illegally in connection with the controversial Menzgold saga. Standing before the High Court, Mensah denied allegations related to his company’s financial practices. The case, which has drawn significant public attention, revolves around accusations of unlawful conduct linked to Menzgold’s operations, though NAM1 maintains his actions were within the bounds of the law.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/I-did-not-operate-illegally-NAM1-tells-Accra-High-Court-2019931
AMA Introduces “Red Line” Policy to Decongest Accra Metropolis
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has launched the Red Line Policy, a new traffic management initiative designed to reduce congestion in the central business district and major arteries of the capital. Under the policy, certain roads and zones are designated as “red lines” where unauthorized parking, hawking, and obstructive commercial activities are strictly prohibited during peak hours. Enforcement involves joint teams of AMA taskforce officers, police, and road safety personnel, with fines, towing of vehicles, and possible confiscation of goods for violations. The AMA says the measure aims to improve flow of traffic, enhance pedestrian safety, and restore order in high-density areas.
Read more: https://isd.gov.gh/ama-introduces-red-line-policy-to-decongest-the-metropolis/
Ablakwa Announces Permanent Framework for Regional Security and Intelligence Sharing
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced that West African leaders have agreed to establish a permanent framework for enhanced security cooperation and intelligence sharing to combat terrorism and violent extremism. The decision was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the High-Level Consultative Conference on Regional Cooperation and Security held in Accra (January 29–30, 2026). Key elements include shared programs to address common threats, a human security focus on food, healthcare, education, and climate change impacts, and a biannual consultative platform to track progress. A foundational memorandum of understanding is being expedited to provide a legal basis for multilateral action. Participating nations included Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, and Togo.
Read more: https://isd.gov.gh/ablakwa-announces-new-permanent-framework-for-regional-security-and-intelligence-sharing/
U.S. Army Delegation Pays Working Visit to Ghana Air Force Chief
A six-member delegation from the United States Army, led by Brigadier General Cederman, held discussions with Chief of the Air Staff Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frempong in Accra to strengthen bilateral defence and security cooperation. The talks focused on deepening military partnerships, joint training initiatives (particularly search and rescue exercises), and improving operational readiness, interoperability, and emergency response capabilities. Brig Gen Cederman appreciated the warm reception and encouraged a reciprocal visit to the United States. Air Vice Marshal Agyen-Frempong called for support in enhancing security and infrastructure at Ghana Air Force bases, including advanced aircraft communication and navigation equipment to boost efficiency and safety.
Read more: https://isd.gov.gh/u-s-army-delegation-pays-working-visit-to-ghana-air-force-chief/
President Mahama Arrives in Dubai for 2026 World Governments Summit
President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to participate in the 2026 World Governments Summit. The high-level event brings together heads of state, government officials, policymakers, and global leaders to discuss innovation in governance, technology, sustainable development, and future policy challenges. Ghana’s participation underscores its commitment to sharing experiences in digital transformation, economic recovery, and regional integration while exploring partnerships in areas such as AI, climate resilience, and youth employment. The President is expected to deliver remarks and hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines.
Read more: https://isd.gov.gh/president-mahama-arrives-in-dubai-for-2026-world-governments-summit/
Ghana Air Force Explores Training Collaboration with India
The Ghana Air Force is pursuing deeper training and capacity-building collaboration with the Indian Air Force following high-level discussions. The initiative aims to enhance pilot training, technical maintenance skills, air traffic management, and joint exercises to improve operational readiness and professionalism. Talks focused on exchange programs, instructor training, and potential equipment support. The partnership builds on existing Ghana–India defence ties and is expected to strengthen the Ghana Air Force’s capabilities in a rapidly evolving regional security environment.
Read more: https://isd.gov.gh/ghana-air-force-explores-training-collaboration-with-india/
Ghana Temporarily Suspends Citizenship Applications for Historical Diasporans
The Ministry of the Interior has suspended the processing of new citizenship and Right of Abode applications under the “Beyond the Return” programme for persons of African descent, effective February 1, 2026. The pause, which does not affect pending or approved cases, allows for a comprehensive review of administrative processes, eligibility criteria, verification procedures, and alignment with national priorities.
Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/02/ghana-suspends-citizenship-applications-for-historical-diasporans/
Ghana Police Declare Gang Leader Hoyeefi Wanted, Offer GH₵50,000 Bounty
The Ghana Police Service has declared Hoyeefi (full name withheld), alleged leader of an armed robbery gang that attacked Nkaseim in the Ahafo Region on December 2, 2025, as wanted. Hoyeefi is accused of masterminding the assault on the Nkaseim Police Station and several businesses, resulting in the theft of two AK-47 rifles and cash. A GH₵50,000 bounty has been placed on information leading to his arrest. Police continue to pursue three other suspects.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Ghana-Police-declare-gang-leader-Hoyeefi-wanted-offer-GH-50-000-bounty-2019788
Taxi Driver’s GH₵5,000 Bribe Fails as Police Seize Suspected Narcotics
A taxi driver attempting to bribe police officers with GH₵5,000 to release a vehicle suspected of carrying narcotics has been arrested. The incident occurred during a routine stop, where officers discovered substances believed to be narcotics concealed in the vehicle. The driver and vehicle occupants are in custody, and investigations are ongoing to determine the origin and destination of the consignment.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Taxi-driver-s-GH-5-000-bribe-fails-as-police-seize-suspected-narcotics-2019784
President Mahama to Embark on State Visit to Zambia
President John Dramani Mahama will pay a three-day State visit to Zambia from February 4 to 6, 2026, accompanied by First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama. The visit, at the invitation of President Hakainde Hichilema, aims to deepen bilateral cooperation, expand trade and investment, and advance AfCFTA opportunities. Key activities include addressing Zambia’s National Assembly, engaging the Ghanaian community in Lusaka, and participating in a Ghana–Zambia Business Dialogue.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Prez-Mahama-to-embark-on-State-visit-to-Zambia-2019785
How Ibrahim Came into Great Wealth – John Mahama Details
President John Dramani Mahama has shared details of how businessman Ibrahim (full name withheld in initial reports) amassed significant wealth, citing examples of rapid accumulation through strategic business dealings and investments. The remarks were made in the context of broader discussions on economic opportunity, youth entrepreneurship, and wealth creation in Ghana.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/How-Ibrahim-came-into-great-wealth-John-Mahama-details-2019751
Microfinance Operators Back BoG Reforms but Seek More Time
Microfinance institutions in Ghana have expressed support for recent Bank of Ghana reforms aimed at strengthening the sector but have appealed for extended timelines for full compliance. Operators cited challenges including high compliance costs, staff capacity constraints, and the need for transitional support, while affirming commitment to improved governance, risk management, and customer protection.
Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/02/microfinance-operators-back-bog-reforms-but-seek-more-time/
Running Mate Slot Not a Reward for Second Place – Miracles Aboagye
NPP Communications Director Miracles Aboagye has stated that the running mate position is not an automatic reward for finishing second in the presidential primary. Speaking after Dr. Bawumia’s victory, Aboagye stated that the choice of running mate will be strategic, based on national appeal, complementarity, and the ability to strengthen the ticket ahead of 2028.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/running-mate-slot-not-a-reward-for-second-place-miracles-aboagye/
Refresh for fresh updates as events unfold.
Ghana News
Russian Embassy Criticized for “Empty” Statement on Viral Exploitation Videos involving Citizen
The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Ghana has issued a brief statement in the wake of widespread public anger and social media uproar over allegations that Russian nationals are luring young Ghanaian women into filmed sexual encounters for online distribution without consent.
The release posted on X on February 16, 2026, fails to condemn the alleged exploitation, non-consensual recording, and distribution of intimate material by its nationals.
“The Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Ghana has taken note of the reports in the Ghanaian media on the alleged involvement of a supposedly Russian citizen engaged in sexual activities with some Ghanaian women and recorded those acts without consent,” the post read.
The response comes after days of viral outrage on X, TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp groups, where screenshots, testimonies, and alleged links to explicit content prompted hashtags such as #ProtectGhanaianWomen and #StopTheRussianScheme.
MP Sam George, chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Gender, Children and Social Protection, has announced Ghana’s intent to pursue extradition if the primary suspect.
Responses on X
Responses to the post have been stronly worded. One person posted:
“Never trust those Russian scum. They throw African men into their war as cannon fodder & treat African women like disposable sex toys. Pure racist evil. Predators, not partners. WAKE UP AFRICA.”
Another asked:
“Any action taken?”
Another asked:
“So after taking the note, what next?”
Ghanaian authorities have disclosed they will pursue extradition proceedings against the man, said to have left Ghana.
The decision was announced by Member of Parliament Sam George on February 13, 2026, following weeks of public outrage over the alleged scheme.
According to Sam George — who chairs the Parliamentary Committee on Gender, Children and Social Protection — the suspect is believed to be a Russian national who used dating apps and social media to target young Ghanaian women, particularly students and professionals in Accra and other urban centres.
Victims were reportedly lured with promises of money, gifts or relationships, only to discover later that explicit videos were uploaded to adult websites and shared in private groups, often leading to blackmail, humiliation and threats.
A now-viral video purports to show the Russian national who previously gained attention in Ghana for controversial secret videos being arrested in Tokyo.
The video captures the man often identified in online reports by the username “Yaytsesl” being handcuffed and his rights being read to him by a Japanese law enforcement officer.
Arrest captured in partially verified video
The partially blurred footage circulating online shows Japanese police officers informing the man of his rights to remain silent in English while placing him under arrest.
In the video, officers say they had reviewed his online content before taking action.
The man is heard responding that he had never been arrested before and asking what personal items he would be allowed to bring.
The authenticity of the footage has not been independently verified.
Background: online activity linked to Ghana controversy
The suspect had drawn international attention after posting videos involving escapes with women in Kenya and Ghana that sparked widespread backlash.
The content allegedly included exploitative online material tied to vulnerable individuals, which triggered outrage among social media users and prompted calls for investigation.
Ghanaian authorities later confirmed they were aware of the situation and had initiated inquiries into the man’s activities while he was in the country. Officials indicated they were cooperating with international partners as part of broader investigations.
Reports from African and Russian media described the man as a self-proclaimed “pick-up artist” and online blogger in his 30s who travelled to Ghana and other African countries, where he allegedly recorded interactions with women without their knowledge.
Media outlets in both regions also alleged that he used sunglasses equipped with a hidden camera to capture some of the encounters and later shared the footage on social media, although authorities have not officially confirmed these claims.
Cross-border legal implications
Japanese police have not publicly disclosed the exact charges, but the arrest, if confirmed, highlights how digital activity can lead to international law enforcement action. Authorities reportedly acted after reviewing evidence linked to his online conduct.
The case has also sparked debate in Ghana about online exploitation, digital regulation, and the protection of vulnerable populations in the age of social media.
In Ghana, under the Cybersecurity Act 2020, the law punishes those who share nude photos or videos online, especially of women and children, often for revenge or blackmail.
Several Ghanaian traders are feared dead after a truck carrying tomato merchants from Ghana was attacked by suspected terrorists in Titao, Burkina Faso, on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
In an official statement issued on February 14, 2026, Ghana’s Ministry of the Interior and National Security described the incident as “disturbing,” reflecting the gravity of the situation, but kept its lips tight about casualties.
The release, signed by Minister Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka (MP), stated that the vehicle transporting the traders was caught in the terrorist attack in the northern Burkinabè town of Titao, near the Ghana border.
“The Ghana Embassy in Burkina Faso is liaising with the officials of Burkina Faso to visit the attack site for details and identification of Ghanaians caught in the attack,” the statement read. “Further details would be communicated to the public.”
While no official casualty figures have been released by Ghanaian or Burkinabè authorities as of February 15, 2026, and the identities of those affected remain unconfirmed, reports on social media, where the news about the attack first broke, suggest at least seven of the traders hit have died.
The attack took place in a region of Burkina Faso that has seen frequent jihadist incursions by groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates operating in the Sahel.
Cross-border trade in agricultural goods, especially tomatoes, onions, and other perishables, is a major economic lifeline for communities on both sides of the Ghana-Burkina Faso frontier. However, escalating insecurity in northern Burkina Faso has increasingly disrupted commercial movements, raised insurance costs, and threatened livelihoods.
The Ministry’s prompt public communication reflects growing concern over the safety of Ghanaian nationals operating in volatile border areas. Ghanaian consular officials are expected to provide further updates as more information emerges from the joint site visit.
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