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UN Strongly Condemns Attack on Ghanaian Peacekeepers in Lebanon, Mpox Outbreak in Ghana and Other Trending Issues in Ghana Today (March 9, 2026)

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Stay informed with the latest developments from Ghana and beyond. This rolling update brings you key stories as they unfold. Check back regularly for fresh additions.


UN Chief Strongly Condemns Attack on Ghanaian Peacekeepers in Lebanon

Guterres, 71, assumed office in January 2017 for a five-year term that finishes at the end of this year [File: Cristina Quicler/AFP]


United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned an attack that injured three Ghanaian peacekeepers serving with UNIFIL in southern Lebanon on March 6, 2026. The soldiers came under heavy gunfire while at their outpost in Al Qawzah, with one seriously injured and evacuated to Beirut. Guterres demanded full accountability, describing attacks on peacekeepers as potential war crimes, and called for immediate de-escalation amid rising regional tensions linked to the broader Middle East conflict.
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Government Bans Land Transit of Rice, Sugar and Seven Other Essential Commodities


Ghana’s Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has imposed an immediate ban on the land transit of nine key commodities, including rice, sugar, flour, cooking oil, pasta, canned tomatoes, frozen products, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. Importers must now route these goods exclusively through Ghana’s seaports to curb revenue leakages and strengthen border security. The directive, issued after consultations with the Ghana Revenue Authority, is expected to significantly reshape import logistics and clearing processes in the country.
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Mobile Money Vendor and Customer Killed in Armed Robbery at Fufulso Junction
Two people — a mobile money (MoMo) vendor and his customer — were shot dead in a violent armed robbery at Fufulso Junction in Ghana’s Savannah Region on Sunday evening. Three other persons sustained gunshot injuries and are in critical condition at Buipe District Hospital. The attack triggered angry youth in the community to set fire to several homes, prompting the deployment of security personnel to restore calm.
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CID Reopens Investigations into Multiple High-Profile Murder and Disappearance Cases
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has reactivated its Cold Case Unit to reopen investigations into several unresolved high-profile cases, including the disappearance of NDC Women’s Organiser Paulina Lamisi Akambodipo, the murder of Stella Adjoa Potake Donkor in Tema, and the killing of Anthony Cudjoe Ahiama at Oyarifa. The move, announced by CID Director-General COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, aims to bring fresh intelligence and forensic resources to deliver justice for victims and their families.
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Former COCOBOD CEO Returns Official Vehicle Amid Ongoing Audit Probe
Former Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Chief Executive Joseph Boahen Aidoo has returned an official vehicle he retained for over 14 months after leaving office. The return comes amid heightened scrutiny and an ongoing audit investigation into COCOBOD’s finances, including major procurement irregularities inherited by the new administration. The case has been referred to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for further probe.
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Temporary Lane Closure at Tetteh Quarshie Interchange Starts March 9 for Bridge Expansion Works
The Ghana Highway Authority has announced a temporary closure of lanes on the N4 northbound carriageway of the Accra–Madina road at the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange, effective March 9, 2026, lasting approximately four months. The measure supports ongoing T-beam launching for the interchange bridge expansion under the Accra–Tema Motorway and Extension Projects, overseen by the Ministry of Roads and Highways. The southbound carriageway will be reconfigured into two lanes in each direction to maintain flow between Accra and Madina. Authorities emphasize safety for construction workers and road users, urging motorists to follow traffic signs, exercise caution, and cooperate with officials.
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Mpox Outbreak in Ghana: Eight Deaths and Over 1,000 Confirmed Cases Since May 2025


Ghana has recorded 1,038 confirmed mpox cases and eight deaths since the outbreak began in May 2025, according to the latest update as of March 3, 2026. Most fatalities involved individuals with underlying conditions, with one active case currently under admission and no critical cases reported. Cases span 124 districts across all regions (47.5% of the country), with Greater Accra and Western regions recording the highest numbers. The Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service have led a multi-sectoral response, supported by international partners, including enhanced surveillance, contact tracing with 21-day monitoring, laboratory testing at key facilities, and vaccination of 31,231 people (over 95% coverage) in 12 hotspot districts across Ashanti, Greater Accra, and Western regions using 33,600 doses from Africa CDC and WHO. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh noted a significant decline in cases following interventions, with sporadic occurrences in recent months. Medical costs are covered by the state, and officials urge accurate information dissemination to strengthen public health security.
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Poor Hygiene and Sanitation Practices Drive Rising Pediatric UTIs in Ghana, Expert Warns
Paediatrician Dr. Beatrice Nyann of the University of Ghana Medical Centre has highlighted poor hygiene and sanitation as the primary root causes behind the increasing cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among children in Ghana, affecting even those from affluent households. Girls face higher risk than boys, with pre-schoolers particularly vulnerable due to neglect. Contributing factors include delaying urination during play, prolonged use of diapers containing urine or faeces (allowing germs to enter the urinary tract), and poor school sanitation exposing pupils to germs from unclean facilities. Dr. Nyann warned that extended time in soiled diapers can lead to severe infections potentially impacting the kidneys. Prevention focuses on frequent diaper changes for infants and promoting strong hygiene and sanitation habits in schools for older children.
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CLOGSAG Starts Indefinite Nationwide Strike Today Over Delayed Conditions of Service
The Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) has commenced an indefinite nationwide strike effective March 9, 2026, citing prolonged delays in implementing agreed conditions of service. Despite previous engagements and a National Labour Commission directive to suspend action and negotiate, the union reports no formal government response since issuing their strike notice last week. The industrial action disrupts administrative operations across ministries, departments, agencies, and local government offices. CLOGSAG’s Public Relations Officer urged all members to stay away from work.
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MP Challenges President Mahama to Lead Salary Cuts Starting from Jubilee House Amid Cocoa Price Slump
Akim Oda MP Alexander Akwasi Acquah has dared President John Dramani Mahama to initiate salary reductions for himself and other appointees beginning at Jubilee House in solidarity with cocoa farmers hit hard by falling prices. Farmers, who met with the Minority Caucus in the Eastern Region, expressed frustration over unfair compensation despite their contributions to the sector, with some unable to celebrate Ghana’s Independence Day. The call references past salary trims under former President Akufo-Addo and urges the burden not fall solely on COCOBOD executives.
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Cabinet Greenlights Fresh Nationwide SIM Registration Exercise
Ghana’s Cabinet has approved a new round of mandatory SIM card registration, described as a complete reset rather than a continuation of prior efforts. Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George announced the move following reviews that highlighted issues like weak biometric enforcement, data inconsistencies, and fraud in the previous process. The National Communications Authority (NCA) will serve as the central data repository with mandatory biometric verification, and a Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) will enable cross-network blocking of stolen or fraud-linked devices. Telecom operators have welcomed the initiative but noted operational concerns; a revised Legislative Instrument is in preparation.
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Economist Urges Government to Convert Middle East War Oil Price Gains into Relief for the Poor
Amid escalating Middle East conflict driving up global crude oil prices, economist Dr Adu Owusu Sarkodie has called on the government to channel potential revenue windfalls—Ghana being an oil exporter—into targeted support for vulnerable groups. He suggested measures like fuel coupons for trotro, taxi, and ride-hailing drivers to cushion rising transport costs and stabilize fares. The expert highlighted risks from prolonged disruptions, drawing parallels to the Russia-Ukraine war’s effects on supply chains, fertilizer, and wheat imports, and stressed the need to boost local production in agriculture and industry to reduce import reliance.
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Import Dependency Poses Threat to Ghana’s Economy Amid Iran Conflict, Warns Economist
Economist Dr Adu Owusu Sarkodie has cautioned that Ghana’s heavy reliance on imported essentials—such as fertilizer and wheat—jeopardizes economic stability if the Israel-Iran conflict escalates and disrupts global supply chains. Referencing past shocks from the Russia-Ukraine war, he noted vulnerabilities in food security and input costs, while acknowledging potential oil revenue benefits from higher prices. Recommendations include using extra earnings for targeted relief (e.g., transport sector support) and accelerating domestic production of key goods like fertilizer, poultry, and sugar to build long-term resilience.
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Ghana’s Gold Export Reliance on Dubai Exposes Cedi to Risks from Iran Conflict Trade Disruptions
Ghana’s dependence on Dubai for over 72% of small-scale gold exports (with India taking most of the rest) has left the cedi vulnerable as the Israel-Iran conflict disrupts Middle East airspaces and slows shipments. In 2025, small-scale exports totaled over 103,000 kg via the Ghana Gold Board, but airspace issues could reduce foreign currency inflows critical for forex market stability. Experts note the lack of traceability limits access to premium markets, forcing reliance on Dubai and potential discounted sales, with broader implications for currency pressure despite Bank of Ghana reserves. Efforts to diversify routes and improve local refining continue.
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Self-Styled Marriage Counsellor Remanded for Alleged Child Sexual Abuse Material Offences
Rev Dr Ebenezer Conduah, a self-styled international radio marriage counsellor, has been arrested and remanded into custody for three weeks by a court to facilitate ongoing investigations. The charges relate to child sexual abuse material under sections 62 and 63 of Act 1038, stemming from allegations of abusing a 17-year-old minor over approximately four years, including recordings and postings on international porn websites. The arrest was executed by the Cyber Security Authority in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service following cyber investigations.
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Ghana News

GH₵6.1 Million and Counting: Mahama and His Appointees Donate Six Months’ Salary to Ghana’s Healthcare Fund

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President John Dramani Mahama has made good on a pledge to donate six months of his salary to Ghana’s flagship healthcare initiative, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCares.

Combined with contributions from political appointees and deductions from officials who missed an asset declaration deadline, the total sum of GH₵6,102,737.80 has been transferred to the Fund.

The formal presentation was made on Monday at Jubilee House, where Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration) Nana Oye Bampoe Addo handed over the proceeds on behalf of the Office of the President.

The Controller and Accountant-General has already transferred the full amount to the Trust.

A ‘Reset Agenda’ Made Concrete

President Mahama launched MahamaCares on 29 April 2025 to address critical gaps in Ghana’s healthcare financing system. The Fund covers treatment costs for non-communicable diseases not fully provided for under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), including cancers, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney failure requiring dialysis, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, and sickle cell disease.

The need is not abstract. According to the World Health Organisation, non-communicable diseases now account for 45 percent of all deaths in Ghana. One health facility alone recorded five thousand new diabetes referrals in the first half of 2025.

‘Real Sacrifices’ and a Call for Public Support

Nana Oye Bampoe Addo stated that the salary donations had not come without cost to those who made them.

“These salary donations came with real sacrifices. Bills that had to wait. Plans that had to be deferred. Commitments that had to be renegotiated. We knew the cost, and we paid it anyway,” she said.

She said the entire exercise is the Reset Agenda made concrete, arguing that public office carries an obligation to give.

“Leadership is not a title, it is a disposition,” she said.

She ended with a call to Ghanaians to support the fund: “This is a passionate appeal from political appointees to each and every Ghanaian. We know you will hear, you will dig deep in your pockets and contribute so that more lives will also be saved”.

How the Money Was Raised

The funds comprised:

  1. President Mahama’s pledge: Six months of his basic salary
  2. Appointee contributions: One month’s salary from government appointees
  3. Asset declaration penalties: Three months’ salary forfeited by officials who missed the initial deadline for asset declaration

Collections are not yet finished. Appointees who missed the asset declaration deadline remain subject to further deductions, and those proceeds will also go to the Fund.

“We will still be collecting more money,” Nana Oye Bampoe Addo said.

The Fund’s Ambition and Challenges

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund requires approximately three billion Ghana cedis annually over its first three years to achieve its goals. It is currently operating as a pilot phase to help the government assess its long-term financial sustainability.

The Fund currently receives 20% of the National Health Insurance Levy, with additional support coming from donor groups, corporate institutions, organisations, and private individuals. The Administrator of the Fund, Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, has stated that the Fund has decided to begin by focusing on cancer treatment, with plans to gradually expand coverage based on lessons learned from the pilot phase.

A Life Saved Already

The Deputy Chief of Staff said the fund had already changed at least one life, referring to a beneficiary she identified as Ms. Kobba. “President has turned tears of sadness into tears of joy and gratitude and has saved a life,” she said.

She added: “Every Cedi transferred will reach someone in desperate need. It will fund a cancer patient’s next round of chemotherapy. It will pay for a dialysis session for someone whose family has run out of options”.

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Ghana News

Police Arrest Suspect in UCC Student Murder, Mahama Accepts Sophia Akuffo’s Resignation, and Other Big Stories in Ghana Today

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Happy Tuesday! Check out the big stories dominating Ghana’s news cycle today. Stay informed.

Police Arrest 39-Year-Old Suspect in Murder of UCC Student Innocentia Avinu

The Ghana Police Service has arrested a 39-year-old man, Michael Mensah, in connection with the murder of University of Cape Coast (UCC) Level 200 student Innocentia Atsufui Avinu. The suspect, who claims to be a teacher but also works as a driver, was apprehended on June 15, 2026, at the Pedu Lorry Station in Cape Coast through intelligence-led operations by the Inspector-General of Police’s Cyber Vetting and Enforcement Team.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Mensah allegedly picked up the deceased from the Ayensu Plaza hostel area on June 11 around 6:48 p.m. and transported her to Hutchland Beach, where she was last seen alive before her body was discovered. Investigations are ongoing, and the police have assured the public of further updates. Read the full story here

COCOBOD Defends Unprecedented Cocoa Price Intervention to Save the Sector

COCOBOD has strongly defended the government’s decision to intervene in cocoa producer prices this season, describing it as a necessary measure to protect farmers and safeguard the industry’s contribution to Ghana’s GDP. Head of Public Affairs Jerome Sam explained that the mid-season price adjustment in February deviated from the usual practice due to challenging global market developments that began last year.

Sam emphasised that without intervention, prices would have fallen further in line with international trends, as seen in neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire. The decision prioritised farmers’ income and livelihoods while ensuring long-term sector sustainability. Read the full story here

President Mahama Accepts Sophia Akuffo’s Resignation from Council of State

President John Dramani Mahama has formally accepted the resignation of former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo from the Council of State. Akuffo submitted her resignation letter in September 2025, with the process delayed at the request of the Council to engage her on any underlying concerns.

Minister of State Felix Kwakye Ofosu confirmed that engagements did not change her decision, leading to acceptance of the resignation. The government has initiated the constitutional process to appoint a replacement. Read the full story here

IEA and Global Info Analytics Release Conflicting Reports on Mahama’s Performance

Two major polling organisations have released sharply contrasting assessments of President John Dramani Mahama’s performance 18 months into his term. The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) reported a decline in approval to 58.9% in its May 2026 survey (down from 68% previously), while Global Info Analytics recorded a rise to 71%.

The divergent findings have sparked intense debate on social media, with public opinion split amid concerns over the cost of living, power supply, and economic conditions. Read the full story here

Ghanaian Master’s Students in UK to Picket Over Unpaid Scholarship Fees

Six Ghanaian master’s students at Loughborough University plan to protest at the Ghana High Commission in London on June 16, 2026, over nearly two years of unpaid tuition fees and stipends by the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat. The students, who commenced studies in September 2024, say outstanding payments total GHC3.42 million, risking their ability to graduate on July 7.

Despite repeated assurances, no payments have been made for tuition or living stipends, leading to withheld graduation documents. The students say they have exhausted other avenues. Read the full story here

Ablakwa: Government Exploring All Channels to Secure Thomas Partey’s Canada Visa

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has stated that the government is using all diplomatic channels to resolve the visa denial for Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against Panama. Canada refused the visa due to ongoing rape charges in the UK, where Partey has pleaded not guilty.

Ablakwa described the decision as “high-handed” and unfair, arguing it violates the presumption of innocence. Discussions have been held with Canadian officials, and further administrative and legal options are being pursued. Read the full story here

Military Deployed to Bawku SHS After Student Riot Over Exam Malpractice Crackdown

Military personnel have been deployed to Bawku Senior High School in the Upper East Region following a violent student riot that caused extensive damage to school property and resulted in the assault of teachers. The disturbance erupted around 1:00 a.m. on June 15 after authorities prevented final-year students from engaging in examination malpractice.

One teacher was allegedly kidnapped and another injured and referred to Bolgatanga for treatment. The military was brought in to restore calm and prevent further escalation. Investigations are ongoing. Read the full story here

Bole SHS Teacher Under Investigation Over Alleged Sexual Misconduct with Final-Year Student

Authorities at Bole Senior High School (Bole SHS) in the Savannah Region have launched an internal investigation into a science tutor accused of engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with a final-year student. The probe was triggered after a video allegedly showing the two individuals in one of the school’s science laboratories surfaced and began circulating widely on social media, causing shock and widespread discussion within the school and the Bole community.

School authorities have initiated formal processes to establish the facts of the case, with a committee scheduled to meet the teacher on Monday, June 15, 2026. Neither the school nor relevant education officials had issued a public comment on the matter at the time of reporting. The incident adds to ongoing national concerns about teacher-student misconduct in Ghanaian schools. Read the full story here

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Ghana News

Today’s Newspaper Headlines: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

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Tuesday, June 16, 2026. Stay informed with today’s front pages of Ghanaian newspapers, all in one place.

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