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.

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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/

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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/

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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/

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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/

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“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

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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/

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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/

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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/

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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/

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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/

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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.