Ghana News

Catch up on What’s Happening Across Ghana: Live Update of Major Stories (Jan. 7, 2026)

Published

1 week ago

January 7, 2026

Happy Wednesday! Catch up on the major news headlines in Ghana today, January 7, 2026, with these live updates. Check back throughout the day as we’ll update this page with fresh stories as they break.

Ghana’s Inflation Dips Below Central Bank Target

Ghana’s inflation rate has fallen below the Bank of Ghana’s target range, prompting debate over whether slower price growth signals real economic stabilization or risks suppressed demand. Economists say the drop reflects tight monetary policy and improved supply conditions, but caution sustained progress depends on broader fiscal discipline.

Mahama Meets Chiefs, Firms up Galamsey Fight

President John Dramani Mahama has landed in mining communities, engaging traditional leaders and demonstrating resolve in the anti-galamsey campaign. His tour aims to build local support for sustained environmental protection and enforcement efforts against illegal mining.

Haruna Iddrisu Proposes Petroleum Royalties for Scholarships

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has proposed allocating 2.5% of petroleum royalties to fund a national scholarship authority. The initiative, aimed at expanding educational opportunities, is gaining traction amid calls for innovative use of energy revenues for human capital development.

11 Foreigners Arrested in Tuba Over Fake Dollar Printing and Cyber Fraud

Authorities in Tuba, Ghana have arrested 11 foreign nationals linked to fake U.S. dollar production and cyber fraud schemes. The suspects are facing investigations related to currency counterfeiting and digital financial crimes.

Ghana Police to Screen Shortlisted Recruits Starting January 12

The Ghana Police Service has announced that screening of shortlisted applicants for new recruit intake will begin on January 12. Prospective officers are being urged to prepare for the selection process, which includes medical and background evaluations.

BoG Governor Attributes Inflation Drop to Fiscal Discipline

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana says the recent decline in inflation is the result of sustained fiscal discipline and coordinated monetary policy. He emphasized the central bank’s commitment to price stability and economic resilience.

Ghana Ranks 6th in Africa in Global English Proficiency Index

Ghana has secured sixth place in Africa and 36th globally in the 2025 Education First (EF) English Proficiency Index, reflecting strong performance in adult English language skills across education, business and public life. The annual index, based on data from over 2.2 million test takers in 123 regions, ranks countries by proficiency from “Very High” to “Very Low,” highlighting Ghana’s continued role as a leading English-speaking nation on the continent. This ranking supports Ghana’s attractiveness for international business and education, building on its history of English as the official language and medium of instruction.

New Statue to Honour JJ Rawlings to Be Unveiled

Visit of Jerry John Rawlings, then-President of Ghana, to the European Commission. November 30, 1998. Author: EC/Mark Renders. Creative Commons.

Plans are underway to unveil a statue in memory of Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, Ghana’s longest-serving head of state, as a lasting tribute to his impact on the nation. The memorial will recognize Rawlings’ leadership and legacy, marking a significant moment for supporters and citizens reflecting on his role in Ghana’s political history. Family and organizers have announced the project as a way to honour his contributions and ensure his memory endures in national public space.

Mahama Vows Zero Tolerance for Corruption as He Marks One Year in Office

President John Dramani Mahama has marked one year in office with a heartfelt reaffirmation of his commitment to ethical leadership, national unity, and inclusive governance during a national thanksgiving service at Jubilee House in Accra. Speaking at the event attended by religious leaders, senior officials, and diplomats, Mahama said the past year’s progress isn’t measured solely by statistics but by the “restoration of hope, trust, and direction” for all Ghanaians. He reiterated his administration’s pledge to govern with integrity, competence, compassion and service above self, particularly for youth, the vulnerable, and those who feel left out of the development agenda.

Mahama also stressed that the year ahead will test the nation’s resolve, patience and discipline, while offering opportunities to deepen reforms, accelerate growth and ensure progress is felt across every part of Ghana. He urged public officials to lead with humility and empathy, and reminded citizens that leadership is a trust to be stewarded for the common good. The president’s reflection comes amid broader commentary on his first year in office, including acknowledgment of difficult decisions taken to lay sustainable foundations for the country’s future development.

President Mahama Holds Non-Denominational Thanksgiving Service to Mark One Year in Office

President John Dramani Mahama is marking one year in office with a non-denominational thanksgiving service at the forecourt of the Jubilee House.

Religious leaders, government officials, and members of the public are at the event to thank God for guidance and national stability over the past year.

The service is being held under the theme “Resetting. Rebuilding. Renewing.” The ceremony is aimed at expressing gratitude for the country’s stability over the past year while reaffirming the government’s pledge to national renewal and inclusive governance.

Protests Won’t Fix Pay Crisis, Gamey Urges Patience for Unpaid Nurses and Midwives

In Kumasi, labor consultant, Austin Gamey, has called for calm as nurses and midwives press for long-overdue salary arrears. While health workers continue to voice frustration over delayed pay, with some reportedly unpaid for up to a year, Gamey cautioned that protests alone are not a solution and urged stakeholders to pursue procedural remedies. His comments come amid mounting pressure on the Ministry of Health to resolve the backlog affecting frontline staff who say the arrears are impacting livelihoods and straining healthcare delivery nationwide.

GJA Calls for Immediate Dismissal of GNFS PRO Amid Assault Allegations

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) is demanding the dismissal of the Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Desmond Ackah, following the alleged assault of a Class FM journalist covering a fire outbreak in Kasoa.

The association described the alleged attack — disputed by GNFS leadership — as a threat to press freedom and urged police to arrest and prosecute personnel involved. The GJA has labelled the explanation offered by GNFS as “misleading and offensive,” and said internal disciplinary action alone would be insufficient without legal accountability.

Mahama Says Anti-Galamsey Fight Yielding Results as Polluted Rivers Improve

John Dramani Mahama. Image Credit: President Communications on Flickr

President John Dramani Mahama is touting early signs of success in Ghana’s long-running fight against illegal mining — known locally as galamsey.

Speaking at the New Year School conference in Accra, Mahama recounted his own observation of waterways, like the Ayensu River, shifting from a dark “coffee” color to a lighter hue, signaling reduced mining pollution. He urged continued enforcement and sustainability efforts, stressing that environmental gains must be consolidated. Government agencies such as NAIMOS and the EPA were commended for their frontline roles in restoring water bodies and promoting sustainable practices.

Oppong Nkrumah: Bawumia Outperformed Kufuor and Can Lead NPP to Victory

Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, MP for Ofoase-Ayirebi, has publicly backed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as a strong presidential contender for the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), arguing that Bawumia outperformed former President John Agyekum Kufuor, in his first election bid. Drawing historical parallels, Oppong Nkrumah said Bawumia’s 2024 performance — despite political headwinds — showed he remains a formidable candidate capable of securing victory in future polls, provided party unity and robust campaigning.

Cedi Starts 2026 on a Positive Note with Stronger Exchange Rates

The Ghana cedi began the year showing resilience at forex bureaux, with the dollar trading around GHS12.10, offering relief to traders, importers, and travel planners.

Analysts suggest the improved start reflects heightened investor confidence and may signal stabilizing macroeconomic conditions early in 2026. The performance comes on the heels of strong economic indicators and could have positive implications for diaspora remittances and international trade flows.

Bank of Ghana Ends 2025 with Record International Reserves

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) reported a record high of $13.8 billion in international reserves at the close of 2025 — a key buffer that can support monetary stability and foreign exchange liquidity. This milestone reflects efforts to strengthen the country’s external position amid global economic uncertainties, and could help cushion the cedi against volatility while reassuring foreign investors.

Bond Market Sees Mixed Start to 2026 with Lower Turnover

At the start of the year, Ghana’s bond market experienced eased liquidity as overall turnover declined by 42% to GHS1.59 billion. While reduced trading activity may reflect the typical slow start after the festive season, market watchers note that liquidity patterns will be critical to monitoring government debt dynamics and investor appetite in the coming months.

Fire Destroys Shops at Sefwi Juaboso Market

A major fire incident in Sefwi Juaboso Market has razed several shops, displacing traders and disrupting local commerce. Emergency teams responded to contain the blaze, while community leaders and victims are calling for swift support to rebuild livelihoods and address fire safety gaps in crowded market areas. The Sefwi Juaboso market fire follows similar incidents at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle and Kasoa.

Prophet Fire Oja’s Clarifies He Was Not Arrested

Social media buzz around the reported arrest of controversial religious figure Prophet Fire Oja was quashed as he stated he has been “chilling at home,” denying any arrest took place. The clarification emerged amid widespread speculation after a circulating video sparked confusion online.

Planned Power Outage in Cape Coast on January 8

Residents and businesses in Cape Coast are preparing for a scheduled power outage on January 8, as announced by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The outage is intended to facilitate maintenance and infrastructure upgrades, though it has prompted calls for clear communication to minimise disruption.

Ten Partners Agree Terms to Acquire FPSO by 2027

In a landmark energy sector development, TEN partners have agreed terms to acquire a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) unit by 2027, a strategic move expected to bolster Ghana’s offshore oil production capacity. The acquisition aligns with longer-term ambitions to expand domestic energy infrastructure and increase petroleum output.

Mahama Keeps First-Class Travel Ban for Government Appointees

Government appointees will continue to be barred from first-class travel under President Mahama’s directive — a policy aimed at cost-cutting and fiscal discipline. The travel restriction is part of ongoing efforts under the current Mahama administration to streamline public expenditure while setting an example in public sector accountability.

Asantehene Pays Historic Visit to Police Headquarters

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, paid a historic courtesy call to the Police Headquarters in Accra, reinforcing ties between traditional leadership and security agencies. The visit celebrated cooperation and shared goals for national safety and community partnership.

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Ghana News

Alpha Kappa Alpha Launches Accra Chapter in Historic First

Published

1 hour ago

January 17, 2026

GNG Staff

In a landmark moment for sisterhood, service, and the global African diaspora, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (AKA) has officially chartered its first-ever chapter in Ghana — Alpha Delta Psi Omega.

The new chapter was chartered during a private ceremony and public luncheon held in Accra on January 16, 2026.

The historic event marks Ghana as the home of AKA’s fourth graduate chapter on the African continent, joining established chapters in Liberia, South Africa, and Nigeria.

Organized in partnership with The Adinkra Group, the chartering reinforces AKA’s nearly 118-year legacy of leadership, advocacy, and community upliftment while deepening cultural and economic connections between the African diaspora and the continent.

Alpha Kappa Alpha, founded on January 15, 1908, at Howard University in Washington, D.C., is the oldest and largest historically Black sorority in the world. With more than 360,000 members and over 1,000 chapters globally, AKA has long championed education, health, economic empowerment, and social justice.

The establishment of Alpha Delta Psi Omega in Ghana expands the sorority’s footprint in Africa, creating new opportunities for service, mentorship, and collaboration with local communities, women’s organizations, and diaspora networks.

The chartering ceremony and luncheon brought together sorority leaders, local dignitaries, and members of the Ghanaian diaspora, celebrating the milestone with cultural performances, remarks on sisterhood, and commitments to impactful community initiatives.

The event underscores Ghana’s growing appeal as a hub for diaspora reconnection, following the success of the “Year of Return” (2019) and ongoing “Beyond the Return” campaigns.

“This chapter in Ghana is more than an expansion — it is a homecoming and a bridge for sisterhood across generations and continents,” AKA officials stated in a post shared by Blacvolta on Instagram.

The new chapter is expected to focus on education, health equity, economic empowerment, and youth mentorship, aligning with both AKA’s international service pillars and Ghana’s national development priorities.

For Ghanaians at home and in the diaspora — particularly those in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Europe — this development signals stronger cultural and professional ties. It also opens doors for collaborative projects, leadership exchanges, and community service initiatives that benefit both local and global African communities.

Ghana News

Ghana News Updates (Saturday, Jan 17, 2026): Catch up on the Major Stories

Published

8 hours ago

January 17, 2026

GNG Staff

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.

Minimal Power Disruption Expected During WAPCo Gas Pipeline Maintenance

The Government of Ghana has assured the public that electricity supply will experience minimal disruption on Sunday, January 18, as routine maintenance begins on the West African Gas Pipeline (WAPCo). The Ministry of Energy and GRIDCo say the exercise — scheduled from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. — is essential for safety and reliability of gas flows to thermal plants in Tema. Alternative fuel arrangements are in place to keep generation stable and prevent major outages during the maintenance window.

Government Reviewing Saglemi Housing Deal and Private Takeover
The government is reassessing the Saglemi Housing Project agreement signed under the previous administration, which saw a private consortium take over the stalled housing development at Prampram. Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu says the project was intended as affordable public housing, but the late-stage transfer to private hands may undermine that original purpose. The review aims to ensure that the development serves public interest and delivers on its original objectives after years of stalling.

Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta Detained in U.S.; Extradition Process Under Review
Former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta is currently being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) amid ongoing legal and immigration proceedings. U.S. authorities revoked his visa in 2025, prompting his detention in early January 2026 as Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor requests his extradition over alleged corruption and financial misconduct. Legal and political voices in Ghana have described the situation as a step toward accountability, while others warn that detention alone does not equate to justice. Ghanaian lawmakers have urged Ofori-Atta to return voluntarily and face the charges, and the extradition process — including dual criminality requirements — remains under review.

Comfort Antwi: Ghanaian Teen Dies in North Carolina Crash
A 16-year-old Ghanaian teenager, Comfort Antwi, has died following a head-on collision in Charlotte, North Carolina. The crash occurred on January 3, when the Toyota Yaris she was driving veered into oncoming traffic and struck a BMW, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Antwi was transported to hospital with critical injuries and succumbed on January 5. Loved ones have launched a GoFundMe appeal to support her family. She was a student leader and chorister with aspirations of becoming an ultrasound technician.

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

Published

1 day ago

January 16, 2026

GNG Staff

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