Ghana News
Ghana Rises to Africa’s 8th Largest Economy, Arrests Over Mahama Deepfakes, GES Declares No School Should Charge Fees, and Other Big Stories in Ghana Today
Welcome! We have curated the most relevant stories from across Ghana today, from a major milestone as Ghana becomes Africa’s 8th largest economy and a landmark ruling on school fees, to arrests over deepfake videos and threats against security personnel, a heartbreaking demolition scene, and a critical infrastructure rebuild at Akosombo. Stay informed with our concise, verified and trusted summaries.
Ghana Rises to Africa’s 8th Largest Economy as GDP Expands to $118bn
Ghana has achieved a significant economic milestone, rising to become Africa’s 8th largest economy as its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded to $118 billion. The new ranking reflects sustained growth across key sectors, including oil and gas, services, and agriculture, and positions Ghana ahead of several larger-population countries on the continent. The development is expected to boost investor confidence and attract further foreign direct investment, particularly in infrastructure and technology.
Despite the positive headline, economists caution that GDP size alone does not translate to improved living standards for all Ghanaians. Challenges remain in youth unemployment, inflation management, and income inequality. However, the new ranking reinforces Ghana’s standing as a stable and growing economy in West Africa, potentially strengthening its negotiating position within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Read the full story here
11 Arrested Over Deepfake Videos Impersonating President Mahama
Ghanaian authorities have arrested 11 individuals in connection with the creation and distribution of deepfake videos impersonating President John Dramani Mahama. The sophisticated manipulated videos, which circulated widely on social media, were designed to mislead the public by making it appear as though the President had made statements he never uttered. The Cyber Security Authority, working with police intelligence units, tracked the suspects across multiple regions.
The arrests mark one of the largest crackdowns on AI-generated disinformation in Ghana’s history. Officials warn that deepfake technology poses a growing threat to electoral integrity, national security, and public trust in institutions. The suspects face charges including identity theft, forgery, and spreading false information. The government has urged citizens to verify any suspicious content through official channels. Read the full story here
No School Should Charge Fees, GES Declares
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a definitive declaration that no public basic school should charge any fees, reaffirming the government’s commitment to free compulsory universal basic education (FCUBE). The directive, which applies to all public kindergartens, primary schools, and junior high schools, prohibits levies for parent-teacher association (PTA) activities, development funds, or any other miscellaneous charges. GES officials have warned that any headteacher or school management found violating the directive will face sanctions.
The declaration comes in response to persistent reports of illegal fee collection in some schools, which effectively bars children from low-income families from accessing education. Parent advocacy groups have welcomed the move but called for increased government funding to schools to prevent resource shortages that drive unofficial levies. Education watchdogs have urged parents to report any violations to the nearest GES district office or via the Ministry of Education’s hotline. Read the full story here
T-Bill Safety to Growth: Alternate Investments to Consider in 2026
With Treasury bill (T-bill) yields declining following the Bank of Ghana’s policy rate adjustments, financial analysts are urging investors to look beyond traditional risk-free instruments for growth opportunities in 2026. The article explores a range of alternative investment vehicles, including equities on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE), real estate investment trusts (REITs), corporate bonds, and mutual funds. Experts suggest that investors with longer time horizons may find better returns in productive sectors such as agribusiness, technology startups, and sustainable energy.
The piece advises a balanced approach, noting that while T-bills remain appropriate for capital preservation and emergency funds, growth-oriented portfolios should diversify. Key considerations highlighted include inflation hedging, liquidity needs, and risk tolerance. The Ghanaian investment landscape is maturing, with new platforms and instruments offering retail investors access to previously inaccessible asset classes. However, analysts caution against unregulated schemes promising unrealistic returns. Read the full story here
‘They will kill me before they leave’ โ Elderly Man Breaks Down After Losing Belongings in Demolition
A heartbreaking video has gone viral showing an elderly man, believed to be in his 70s, breaking down and raining curses on security personnel after his home was demolished during a three-day enforcement exercise at the Sakumono Ramsar site. The man, visibly distraught, was heard daring officers to kill him, shouting: “Leave me, they should kill me todayโฆ I want the soldiers to kill meโฆ You bunch of fools, it shall never be well with you.” The demolition, carried out by the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and the Tema West Municipal Assembly, targeted illegal structures within the Golf Course enclave of the protected wetland.
Authorities have defended the operation, stating that it is driven by a worsening drainage crisis, as illegal buildings along major waterways obstruct natural water flow and aggravate flooding in nearby communities. Officials noted that the rainy season makes the intervention a public safety necessity. Environmental advocates support the enforcement but have expressed concern over the human impact, calling for better compensation and resettlement planning for vulnerable residents who lose their homes. Read the full story here
Man Arrested Over Viral Threats Against Police and Military Personnel
The Ghana Police Service has arrested a suspect identified as Opoku Emmanuel, 27, over a viral video in which he allegedly threatened to kill police and military personnel while warning officers against attempting to arrest armed robbers. The suspect, who appeared masked in the video, was captured on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Jacobu in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region through a joint operation involving the Inspector-General of Police’s Cyber Vetting and Enforcement Team (CVET) and local police.
The video had sparked widespread concern over the safety of security personnel and the potential for incitement to violence. Police confirmed that Opoku Emmanuel is currently in custody assisting with investigations and is expected to be put before court in the coming days. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to dealing firmly with acts of violence, threats, and incitement against security personnel and the public, warning that such behavior will not be tolerated. Read the full story here
GRIDCo Commits to State-of-the-Art Akosombo Switchyard Rebuild After Devastating Fire
The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) has announced plans to build a state-of-the-art replacement for the Akosombo switchyard control room destroyed by fire on April 23, 2026. Board Chairlady Kuukua Maurice Ankrah, speaking at a historic staff durbarโthe first in GRIDCo’s 18-year historyโstated that the tragedy would serve as a catalyst for a long-overdue infrastructure overhaul. “What has happened here is unfortunate, but it also gives us a clear responsibility, not just to replace what we have lost, but to build something better,” she said.
The fire cut off the entire 1,020-megawatt capacity of the Akosombo Generating Station from the national grid, removing roughly 25 percent of Ghana’s average electricity demand. A joint VRA-GRIDCo engineering team restored all six units within seven days using an emergency bypass, but that solution is temporary. The permanent rebuild is expected to take at least six months. Ankrah, the only woman board chair among 17 energy sector entities, has won praise for her leadership during the crisis, with the acting CEO likening her to the biblical Deborah who guided her people through national crisis. Read the full story here
Ghana News
American Expats in Ghana Get a Helping Hand to Vote in 2026 U.S. Midterm Elections
With the 2026 U.S. midterm elections fast approaching, American citizens living in Ghana are receiving a timely boost to ensure their voices are heard from thousands of miles away.
The Vote from Abroad Team in Ghana is set to host a specialized voter registration and assistance event this weekend, designed to navigate the complexities of overseas voting.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, August 29, at 2:00 PM (Ghana time) at Theia’s Coffee House in the Airport Residential Area of Accra. Volunteers will be on the ground to provide trained assistance, guiding participants through the process of registering to vote and requesting their absentee ballots. The organizers have set a goal to register at least 50 new overseas voters in a single afternoon.
“This is a crucial opportunity,” said Lenny Baer, a volunteer with the Vote from Abroad Team in Ghana. “Many US citizens often don’t realize they can vote from overseas. We can, and our votes help determine the outcome of elections across the US.”
Why This Outreach Matters
This initiative is part of a broader effort by Democrats Abroad, the official arm of the Democratic Party representing Americans living outside the United States . The organization operates a volunteer-run network with chapters on six continents, working to protect the voting rights of the estimated 9 million Americans living abroad .
While the event is hosted by Democrats Abroad, the organizers emphasize that it is open to all U.S. citizens living in Ghana, irrespective of political party affiliation . This nonpartisan approach to voter assistance is a core tenant of the organization’s mission, reflecting their commitment to helping any American facing voting challenges . Through their platform, VoteFromAbroad.org, they provide a public service that helps citizens register and participate in elections regardless of their political leanings .
Midterm elections historically see lower voter turnout than presidential elections, particularly among overseas voters who often face bureaucratic hurdles or are simply unaware of their eligibility . With all 435 House seats and approximately 36 Senate seats up for grabs in 2026, every single voteโincluding those from Accraโholds the potential to tip the balance of power in Congress .
How to Participate
For those unable to attend the event in person, organizers have confirmed that a virtual session will be held simultaneously . Interested voters can RSVP through the VoteFromAbroad.org platform to receive the online meeting link and receive the same level of one-on-one assistance in completing their ballot request forms.
Trained voting assistants will also be available to answer questions, help participants complete their Federal Post Card Application (FPCA)โthe standard federal form needed to request a ballotโand ensure that their voting rights are protected .
For Americans in Ghana, this Saturday’s event is more than just a registration drive; it is a critical lifeline to the democratic process back home, ensuring that their geographic distance does not translate into political silence.
Ghana News
Top Headlines from Ghanaian Newspapers: Monday, August 24, 2026
Monday, August 24, 2026 โ Ghanaโs front pages are dominated by a fierce political standoff over GoldBod’s massive financial losses, a significant government U-turn granting a lifeline to Adamus Resources, and a highly competitive race for NPP national executive positions ahead of the 2028 elections.
1. The GoldBod $1.7bn Loss Saga: War of Words Escalates
The Minority in Parliament is refusing to back down on the GoldBod losses, while the state gold company’s CEO faces intense scrutiny.
- “No Distraction: Afenyo-Markin, Minority Sustain Heat โฆOn $1.7bn Gold Loss” (Day Break), with The Daily Statesman stating “PERSONAL ATTACKS WON’T DISTRACT US.”
- The Source reports “Sammy Gyamfi’s Extortion Claim False – Afenyo-Markin,” while The Inquisitor and The Daily Gist note the Minority Leader is “Threatening Legal Action” over the allegation.
- The Informer headlines “Minority Hauls GoldBod CEO Before Parliament” over the controversy.
- NewsCentra digs into the numbers, reporting “GHยข29.1bn Gold Losses In 4 Years – The role of GoldBod and BoG explained,” while The Custodian leads with “Minority Vows To Probe GHยข22bn Gold Trading Loss.”
2. Mahama Intervenes: The Adamus U-Turn
President John Dramani Mahama has stepped into the heated standoff between the Lands Ministry and Adamus Resources, granting the mining giant a 12-month reprieve.
- Daily Democrat and The Insight lead with “Mahama Rescues Adamus Resources” / “Gives Adamus Reprieve.”
- The Daily Banner and The Ghanaian Publisher frame this as a “Government Flip-Flop Questioned” or a “U-Turn.”
- The Informer reports the President “Gives Company Amnesty To Operate Under New Arrangement.”
3. NPP Internal Elections: 50 Battle for Top Posts
The race for the NPP’s national executive positions is officially underway, drawing a massive field of candidates.
- Daily Guide reports “50 Battle For NPP Top Posts,” while The Source and NewsCentra note “50 Aspirants Chase 11 Positions.”
- The Chronicle and The Daily Gist report “Afoko Files Chairmanship Papers Morrow” (Tuesday).
- In the Communications Director race, Daily Analyst and The Source report “Gordon Asare-Bediako withdraws from NPP Communications Race โฆEndorses Dennis Miracles Aboagye.”
- Republic Press highlights the upcoming internal vote with “50 Battle For NPP National Executive Posts.”
4. Galamsey, Security, and Public Health
- Daily Analyst leads with a tragic report: “Kakum Forest Reserve Wildlife Guard Shot Dead.”
- The Daily Statesman reports “Galamsey destroys over 100 acres of farmland,” while The Informer quotes the Interior Minister vowing to “Get Tough!” on illegal mining.
- On the health front, Daily Analyst and The Exclusive report Ghana’s plan to “Reverse 70% Medicine Imports Through 24-Hour Economy,” while Daily Democrat notes a “GMTF, Atlantic Lifesciences Partner to Cut Drug Costs.”
5. Economy, Banking, and Tax
- Graphic Business leads with a major fiscal milestone: “Ghana now spends less than 20% on servicing debt.” This is supported by The Custodian, which reports “Ghana Signs โฌ163m Debt Restructuring Deal With Belgium.”
- B&FT highlights “Gov’t weighs lifting grain export ban โฆamid 70,000mt rice glut.” The paper also reports “Robust investor confidence in economy returns โฆlocal investments hit US$816m, FDIs US$2.62bn.”
- Graphic Business also flags the “23 banks, one dollar, many prices” phenomenon, exposing varying FX costs across banks.
6. Judicial and Political Fallout
- Republic Press reports the “Supreme Court clears way for legal vacation criminal trials โฆDismisses Oppong Nkrumah’s injunction bid,” a ruling also confirmed by Daily Guide.
- The Daily Gist reports a tragic cross-border incident: “Man Drowns While Helping Travellers Cross Ghana-Togo River.”
Ghana News
Ghanaian Firms Inject โฌ425,000 of Own Funds to Ignite ‘Made in Ghana’ Health Innovation
In a powerful demonstration of local ownership, Ghanaian research institutions and pharmaceutical manufacturers are contributing an additional โฌ425,000 of their own money to implement innovative health projects, signaling a robust commitment to advancing homegrown medical solutions beyond relying on foreign aid alone.
The co-funding is part of a โฌ2 million grant package awarded under the PharmaVax Ghana program, backed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union (EU).
The initiative is designed to bridge the critical gap between scientific discovery and industrial-scale manufacturing within Ghana.
While the grants provide vital financial fuel, the local co-investmentโwhich ranges from โฌ10,000 to โฌ150,000 across the eight winning projectsโrepresents a crucial “skin in the game” approach.
It shows that local institutions are not merely passive recipients of aid, but active stakeholders willing to risk their own capital to bring products to the market. This practical commitment underscores the sustainability of the projects, ensuring they are not abandoned once international funding cycles end.

The projects span a wide range of medical priorities, including fast-dissolving oral tablets for child-friendly malaria treatment, AI-powered diagnostic tools for Mpox and malaria, standardized herbal treatments for hypertension and liver disease, and stability data for locally produced tetanus-diphtheria vaccines.

Highlighting the importance of this local participation, Dr. Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey, Chief Executive Officer of the National Vaccine Institute (NVI), emphasized that the funds are meant to catalyze local capabilities.
“Ghana has the scientific talent, the research institutions and an increasingly capable pharmaceutical industry to develop health solutions that respond to our own priorities,” he stated. “By bringing these strengths together, we are creating the foundation for medicines and vaccines that are developed in Ghana, manufactured in Ghana, and have the potential to benefit the wider region.”
Ghana’s Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, echoed this sentiment, noting that the initiative marks a journey where researchers and manufacturers collaborate to transform scientific discoveries into life-saving products.
The โฌ425,000 in local contributionsโcombined with the โฌ2 million in grants and technical assistance from the EU and Germanyโpositions Ghana as a rising hub for pharmaceutical industrialization in West Africa, moving the nation closer to health security and economic self-reliance.
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