Ghana News
Ghana News Live Blog: Catch up on Key Updates
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Residents Lament Home Demolitions at Tse-Addo as Authorities Clear Kpeshie Lagoon Encroachment
Residents of Tse-Addo in Greater Accra expressed deep distress on January 26, 2026, after NADMO officials and military personnel demolished unauthorised structures encroaching on the Kpeshie Lagoon. The exercise aimed to facilitate lagoon reconstruction, improve water flow, and reduce flooding risks. Affected individuals, including shop owners and elderly residents, lamented sudden losses of homes and belongings, with some claiming no prior notice despite official warnings in certain cases. Debris and scattered possessions marked the scene, highlighting the human cost of urban environmental enforcement. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Watch-residents-lament-as-homes-are-demolished-at-Tse-Addo-2019534
Police Warn ‘Macho Men’ to ‘Stay in the Gym’ Ahead of NPP Presidential Primary
The Ghana Police Service issued a stern warning to potential troublemakers ahead of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary on January 31, 2026, urging “macho men” to avoid violence or intimidation at polling centres. A top police official stated that the election is a democratic process, not a contest of strength, stating:
“The election is not for macho people… Tomorrow is not a day for macho men.”
Authorities promised swift arrests for disruptions, protection for voters and materials, and appealed for calm to ensure a peaceful vote. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/NPP-Primary-Stay-in-the-gym-Police-issue-strong-warning-to-macho-men-2019538
Weapons and Equipment Seized in Major Galamsey Raid at Ahanta West
The NAIMOS taskforce conducted a large-scale raid on illegal mining (galamsey) sites in Ahanta West Municipality and adjoining areas, seizing weapons including 7 pump-action guns and 12 BB cartridges, plus excavators, water pumps, vehicles, and other mining tools. Sites along rivers like Hwin and Butre were targeted for destroying ecosystems and blocking water bodies. No arrests were reported, but operations will continue to protect water resources. Explosives were safely disposed of by experts. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/weapons-seized-in-massive-galamsey-sites-raid-at-ahanta-west/
NPP Releases Updated Voting Centres List Ahead of Saturday’s Presidential Primary
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has circulated an updated list of approved voting centres for its presidential primary scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026. The list covers all constituencies and 16 regions, mostly at public schools, community centres, and police facilities, complete with GPS coordinates for easy access. The update was shared with party executives and election organisers less than 24 hours before polling. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/npp-releases-updated-voting-centres-list-ahead-of-saturdays-presidential-primary/
Tony Aidoo: Kennedy Agyapong Should Step Aside – “Not Presidential Material”
Former Ghana Ambassador to the Netherlands Dr. Tony Aidoo called on Kennedy Ohene Agyapong to withdraw from the NPP presidential race, describing him as lacking the temperament and qualities needed for the presidency. Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on January 30, 2026, Aidoo labeled Agyapong a “braggart who lies about people” and unfit for leadership. The comment comes ahead of the January 31 primary featuring multiple aspirants. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/npp-primaries-kennedy-agyapong-should-step-aside-hes-not-presidential-material-tony-aidoo/
Petrol Prices Expected to Drop Marginally in February – COPEC
The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) predicts a slight decrease in petrol prices early in February 2026, while diesel prices remain stable. Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah attributed the marginal petrol adjustment to falling local inventory costs and stable global trends, despite a 5% rise in international diesel prices. The outlook remains fragile due to potential crude oil spikes. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/petrol-prices-to-drop-marginally-in-february-copec/
AMA Demolishes Illegal Structures at Awudome, Issues February Evacuation Warning to Traders
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) demolished unauthorised auto-mechanic workshops and other illegal structures behind Awudome Cemetery and nearby areas to protect public land. A weighing scale was seized from scrap dealers operating without permits. AMA Coordinating Director Douglas N. K. Annoful warned traders and roadside operators to vacate major roads and public spaces by February 1, 2026, ahead of a major decongestion exercise. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ama-demolishes-illegal-structures-at-awudome-warns-traders-ahead-of-february-evacuation/
President Mahama Vows Decisive, Fearless Confrontation of Galamsey
President John Dramani Mahama pledged to tackle illegal mining (galamsey) decisively and without fear or favour, declaring it a top priority. He promised strong enforcement, including security zones in forests and rivers, permanent military bases in affected areas, arrests, and prosecutions to protect rivers (Pra, Ankobra, Offin) and forests for future generations. The fight calls for national unity and collective responsibility. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/galamsey-will-be-confronted-decisively-without-fear-or-favour-mahama/
ECG to Deploy Franchise Officers Nationwide from February 2026 for Better Service and Revenue
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) will begin nationwide deployment of franchise officers starting in February 2026 to improve service delivery, billing accuracy, and revenue assurance. Officers will handle meter reading, bill distribution, digital payments, disconnections for arrears, and reporting illegal activities directly at customer doorsteps, aiming to curb power theft, enhance reliability, and strengthen community engagement.
Basic 5 Pupil Hospitalised After Alleged Assault by Teacher
A pupil in Basic 5 at Falahiyat E/A Primary School in the Savannah Region is receiving treatment at Damongo St Anne’s Catholic Hospital following an alleged assault by a class teacher. The child was reportedly beaten with a wire cane after scoring poorly on homework, prompting concerns from the family and calls for intervention by the Ghana Education Service, the Ghana Police Service’s Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU), and other authorities. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/basic-5-pupil-hospitalised-after-alleged-assault-by-teacher-in-savannah-region/
Chamber of Mines Urges Broad Sharing of Gold Windfall Gains
The Ghana Chamber of Mines says the current surge in global gold prices should benefit the nation widely rather than selectively. CEO Ken Ashigbey warned policymakers against making long-term decisions based solely on short-term price spikes, advocating for systems that balance royalty rates and support equitable community development. As mining communities now contribute significantly to production, stronger regulation and fair revenue sharing are key policy goals. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/gold-windfall-must-be-shared-broadly-not-selectively-ken-ashigbey/
Music Legend Fela Kuti Becomes First African to Receive Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti has made history as the first African musician to be posthumously honoured with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. The recognition celebrates his immense influence on global music through Afrobeat — a genre blending jazz, funk, traditional African rhythms, and politically charged lyricism — and his legacy as a cultural and social icon. Read more: https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/world/2026-01-30-fela-kuti-becomes-first-african-to-get-grammys-lifetime-achievement-award/
Ghana Orders Seizure of Properties in Major Extortion Case
Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has seized a series of fuel stations, luxury apartments, and cash totalling GH¢291 million in connection with a high-profile extortion investigation involving the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). The enforcement action marks a significant milestone in the government’s anti-corruption efforts, signalling increased scrutiny of public funds misuse. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/osp-seizes-fuel-stations-luxury-apartments-cash-in-gh%C2%A2291m-npa-extortion-case/
Chamber of Mines Proposes Sliding Royalty Regime Amid Price Boom
In related mining sector news, the Ghana Chamber of Mines has proposed a new sliding royalty structure ranging from 4% to 8% to better align mineral revenue with fluctuating global gold prices. The plan also suggests scrapping the Growth and Sustainability Levy and introducing a 1% community development contribution to ensure mining communities benefit more visibly during price surges. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/chamber-of-mines-proposes-sliding-royalty-of-4-8-removal-of-gsl-amid-high-gold-prices/
High Court Dismisses OSP’s Bid to Freeze Dr Sledge’s Properties in Corruption Probe
An Accra High Court has rejected an application by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to confirm the freezing of assets belonging to Ghanaian businessman Nana Yaw Duodu (known as Dr Sledge), Goldridge Refinery Ltd., Evelyn Duodu, and Ama Duodu. The OSP, led by Kissi Agyebeng, sought to maintain freezes on luxury vehicles—including an unregistered Rolls-Royce Maserati Phantom S/C, Mercedes-Benz models, bullion vans, a Lexus SUV, and Toyota Land Cruisers—as well as jewelry and personal effects amid an ongoing investigation. Presided over by Justice Samuel Daniel Kotey, the court dismissed the request after arguments from Dr Sledge’s counsel, Alex Kofi Osei-Owusu, and others, adjourning for written submissions by January 29, 2026.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Court-throws-out-the-OSP-s-application-to-freeze-Dr-Sledge-s-and-others-properties-2019479
Nana Aba Anamoah Denies Coercion in GHOne Journalist’s Apology to Foreign Minister Ablakwa
Prominent Ghanaian media personality Nana Aba Anamoah has refuted claims that GHOne TV journalist Lily Mohammed was forced to apologize to Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa following her criticism of the government’s decision to issue a Ghanaian passport to American streamer IShowSpeed. Mohammed had argued for greater valuation of the passport and later apologized, deeming parts of her comments unacceptable. Anamoah stated on social media that no coercion occurred, attributing the apology to Mohammed’s independent judgment and decrying politicization. The incident sparked an online feud with Louisa Laryea, wife of journalist Israel Laryea, who criticized Mohammed’s research standards, prompting a sharp retort from Mohammed dismissing Laryea’s input.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Nana-Aba-Anamoah-speaks-on-alleged-coercion-in-GHOne-journalist-s-apology-to-Ablakwa-2019478
Whistleblower Alleges Plot to Rig NPP Presidential Primaries with Fake Results and Disguised Operatives
A whistleblower from Sekondi Constituency, Ernest Conduah, has reported an alleged scheme to undermine the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries on January 31, 2026, under the Whistle Blower’s Act. The plot, purportedly tied to elements in Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign, involves fake polling agents using a mobile app to transmit fabricated vote counts—assigning disproportionate shares to Agyapong—and declaring premature victories to demoralize rivals. Conduah also claims National Security operatives may pose as police at polling stations. He urged NPP leadership to intervene to prevent chaos. In response, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye warned against unauthorized security, affirming only the Ghana Police Service is mandated and vowing to protect the process’s integrity.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/politics/Whistleblower-alleges-coordinated-plot-to-undermine-NPP-presidential-primaries-2019473
🔁 Check back later for more updates as we continue to follow these and other breaking stories.
Ghana News
Ghana Leads African Central Banks in Gold Reserve Accumulation as Global Buying Wave Hits $2 Billion
Accra, Ghana – Ghana has emerged as one of the most active African central banks in the global gold accumulation surge, joining a broader shift by emerging market nations seeking to diversify reserves and shield economies from currency volatility and geopolitical risks.
According to the latest data, central banks worldwide purchased 27 tonnes of gold in February 2026, valued at approximately $2 billion.
While the bulk of demand continues to come from major players such as China, Poland, Kazakhstan, and Turkey, African central banks are gradually increasing their participation. Ghana stood out last year for aggressively boosting its gold reserves to support the cedi and strengthen its balance sheet amid economic challenges.
The move reflects a deliberate strategy to reduce reliance on traditional foreign currencies and build a more resilient reserve base.
Other African nations are also showing strategic interest. Uganda has launched a domestic gold purchasing programme targeting at least 100 kilograms over four months, while Kenya — despite holding just 0.02 tonnes — has signalled plans for gradual accumulation. Zimbabwe continues experimenting with gold-backed instruments, and the Democratic Republic of Congo aims to formalize 15 tonnes of artisanal gold production in 2026.
These efforts, though still modest compared to global leaders, signal a growing continental recognition of gold’s role as a hedge in uncertain times.
Analysts say this African participation, led by Ghana, aligns with a wider global trend where central banks are treating gold as a strategic asset rather than a relic of the past.
For Ghana, continued accumulation could further stabilise the cedi, enhance macroeconomic credibility, and support the country’s ambition to capture more value from its rich gold resources through strategic reserve management.
Ghana News
LGBTQ Debate Intensifies After Mahama Comments, Moody’s Upgrades Ghana Outlook and Other Big Stories Today
We have curated the most relevant stories from Ghana for your enjoyment and awareness. From renewed calls on the controversial Anti-LGBTQ bill and a significant credit rating upgrade, to traditional leadership disputes and maritime security operations, these developments reflect the key political, economic, and social conversations shaping the country this morning.
It Remains a Priority – Sam George on Anti-LGBTQ Bill
Ningo-Prampram MP Sam George has reaffirmed that the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill remains a top priority for him and many Ghanaians. Speaking in a recent interview, the outspoken NDC legislator took a stance that challenges his boss’s (President Mahama), stating that the bill is not a distraction but a necessary piece of legislation to protect Ghanaian cultural and family values. He expressed confidence that the bill would eventually be passed, despite delays, and urged supporters to remain patient while the legislative process is followed. George stated that the bill enjoys broad public support and that he would continue to champion it until it becomes law.
Read the full story here
Rev. Ntim Fordjour Urges Mahama to Issue Directive to Fast-Track Anti-LGBTQ Bill
Deputy Minority Leader Rev. John Ntim Fordjour has called on President John Dramani Mahama to issue a directive to fast-track the passage of the Anti-LGBTQ bill. The NPP MP argued that the legislation reflects the will of the Ghanaian people and should not be allowed to drag on indefinitely. He urged the President to demonstrate leadership by ensuring the bill is prioritised in Parliament, warning that further delays could erode public trust in the government’s commitment to moral and cultural issues.
Read the full story here
President Mahama Nominates Pamela Graham as New Auditor-General
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Pamela Graham as the new Auditor-General of Ghana. The nomination, which has been forwarded to Parliament for approval, is expected to bring fresh leadership to the country’s supreme audit institution. Graham is widely regarded as a seasoned professional with extensive experience in public financial management and auditing. If confirmed, her appointment will be closely watched as the government continues efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability in public finances.
Read the full story here
Etweresohene Stripped of Title, Barred from Ofori Panin Fie Over Alleged Rebellion
The Etweresohene has been stripped of his title and barred from the Ofori Panin Fie (the palace of the Okyenhene) following allegations of rebellion and disloyalty. The traditional council took the decision after what it described as persistent acts of insubordination and attempts to undermine the authority of the Okyenhene. The development has generated significant interest in traditional circles and highlights ongoing tensions within some traditional structures in the Eastern Region.
Read the full story here
Moody’s Upgrades Ghana’s Outlook to Positive, Affirms Caa1 Rating
Global ratings agency Moody’s has upgraded Ghana’s outlook to positive while affirming the country’s long-term issuer rating at Caa1. The upgrade reflects improving fiscal performance, debt management efforts, and signs of economic stabilisation. However, Moody’s cautioned that risks remain, particularly from external shocks such as global fuel price volatility. The positive outlook signals growing confidence in Ghana’s reform trajectory and could improve the country’s access to international capital markets.
Read the full story here
Mahama to Headline The Africa Debate 2026
President John Dramani Mahama has been confirmed as the headline speaker at The Africa Debate 2026, a major continental platform for discussing Africa’s most pressing issues. The event is expected to bring together African leaders, policymakers, and thought leaders to engage on topics ranging from economic transformation to governance and regional integration. Mahama’s selection underscores his growing stature as a key voice on African affairs.
Read the full story here
Navy Seizes Eight Unregistered Boats at New Takoradi
The Ghana Navy has seized eight unregistered boats during a routine patrol at New Takoradi. The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal fishing and unregulated maritime activities along Ghana’s coastline. The vessels have been impounded, and investigations are underway to determine the owners and intended use of the boats. The Navy has reiterated its commitment to protecting Ghana’s marine resources and enforcing maritime laws.
Read the full story here
Ghana News
Catholic Bishops Reject Trivialization of LGBTQ+ Debate by Mahama Government: ‘Nations Do Not Live by Bread Alone’
ACCRA – Ghana’s Catholic Bishops have issued a forceful pastoral statement urging citizens and leaders alike to treat the ongoing LGBTQ+ debate with the seriousness it deserves.
In the statement, the Bishops warned against dismissing the issue as a minor national concern.
Released on April 10, 2026, the statement from the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) directly responds to recent remarks by President John Dramani Mahama and Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who, in separate public statements, suggested the matter is not a major national priority.
“No question that touches the structure of human identity, family life, and social continuity can be trivial,” the bishops declared.
Values as the Invisible Architecture of Nations
While acknowledging Ghana’s pressing economic challenges, the Conference rejected any attempt to separate moral questions from national development.
“Nations do not live by bread alone,” the statement reads. “They are sustained also by the invisible architecture of values.”
The bishops called for a balanced approach to the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, urging that it uphold both human dignity and the institution of the family.
Clear Condemnation of Discrimination
In a significant passage, the GCBC firmly condemned all forms of discrimination against individuals regardless of sexual orientation.
“No individual, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, may be subjected to violence, hatred, or unjust discrimination,” the bishops stated.
However, they simultaneously reaffirmed their position on traditional family values, describing the family as a nation’s most efficient social welfare system.
“To affirm dignity does not require the redefinition of marriage,” the bishops added. “To defend marriage does not require hostility.”
Reminder to President Mahama
The Conference reminded President Mahama of his earlier commitment to assent to the bill if duly passed by Parliament.
“Democratic integrity rests… on the fidelity of leaders to their publicly stated commitments,” the bishops noted.
They concluded with a call for calm and respectful engagement across all sectors of society, warning that words can either build a republic of trust or fracture it into suspicion.
The GCBC reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to a national conversation grounded in respect, moral clarity, and the common good.
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