Ghana News
Ghana News Live Blog: Catch up on Key Updates Throughout Thursday, January 29, 2026
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🛢️ OSP Seizes Fuel Stations, Luxury Apartments, Cash in ₵291M NPA Extortion Case

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has seized multiple assets linked to a major extortion case involving the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). The haul includes fuel stations, luxury apartments, and cash amounting to GHS291 million, part of efforts to recover proceeds from alleged corruption and extortion activities within the authority. The OSP stressed that the actions target illicit gains and reinforce accountability in Ghana’s energy sector.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/osp-seizes-fuel-stations-luxury-apartments-cash-in-gh%c2%a2291m-npa-extortion-case/
📅 NDC Sets December 19, 2026 for National Delegates Conference
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced December 19, 2026, as the date for its National Delegates Conference, where the party will elect new national leaders. The event marks a significant step in the NDC’s internal democratic process and will reshape the party’s hierarchy ahead of future elections.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ndc-sets-december-19-2026-for-national-delegates-conference-to-elect-new-leaders/
💹 OSP Shuts Down Critics: “Every Cedi Spent Returned 20 Times Over”
Responding to critics of its anti-corruption operations, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) says that funds spent in pursuing corruption cases have been returned multiple times over through recovered assets. The OSP defended its record, underscoring that recovered assets and returned funds outweigh operational costs, reinforcing public confidence in accountability efforts.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/every-cedi-spent-returned-20-times-over-osp-shuts-down-critics/
🗳️ NDC Sets November 14, 2026, for Regional Elections
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced November 14, 2026 as the date for its regional executive elections, which will elect leaders at the regional level. This move is part of the party’s broader internal democratic calendar, following the earlier announcement of the national delegates conference.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ndc-sets-november-14-2026-for-regional-elections/
🍫 Ghana’s Cocoa Farmers Say They Have Not Been Paid Since November
Cocoa farmers in Ghana report that they have not received payment for their produce since November of last year, raising concerns about delayed payments, financial hardship for farming communities, and potential disruptions in the cocoa value chain. Farmers are urging authorities and buyers to resolve the payment backlog urgently.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ghanas-cocoa-farmers-say-they-have-not-been-paid-since-november-last-year/
💸 Ato Forson Signs $12.8M AfDB Grant for BIG Push Projects
Finance Minister Dr. Ato Forson has signed a $12.8 million grant agreement with the African Development Bank (AfDB) to support key components of the Budget Implementation Growth and Opportunity (BIG Push) Programme. The funds are expected to accelerate economic activities and strengthen project implementation nationwide.
Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/ato-forson-signs-12-8m-afdb-grant-for-big-push-projects/
🏛️ NDC Bars Government Appointees from Contesting Party Executive Positions
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has barred current government appointees from contesting for executive positions within the party. The move is intended to strengthen internal party autonomy and ensure that leadership roles are contested by individuals fully focused on party affairs rather than governmental duties.
Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/ndc-bars-govt-appointees-from-contesting-party-executive-positions/
🚓 CID Details Arrest of 7 Linked to Highway Robbery Involving Council of State Member
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has provided updates on the arrest of seven suspects allegedly linked to a highway robbery in which a Council of State member was targeted. The CID says investigations are ongoing as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice and ensure security on national highways.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/CID-boss-details-arrest-of-7-linked-to-highway-robbery-involving-Council-of-State-member-2019412
🔥 Fire Destroys Nobisco Girls’ Dormitory, Nearly 900 Students Displaced

A devastating fire has gutted the girls’ dormitory at Nobisco Senior High School in the Volta Region, forcing nearly 900 students to flee their residences. The blaze occurred in the early hours, and while there were no reported fatalities, students and staff were left traumatised and displaced. Regional education officials are coordinating temporary shelter and support as investigations into the fire’s cause begin.
Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/fire-guts-nobisco-girls-dormitory-displaces-nearly-900-students/
🏛️ Kpandai MP Says He Has “Never Had Peace to Work” After Supreme Court Victory
Matthew Nyindam, Member of Parliament for Kpandai, says he has faced constant pressure and unrest over the past year despite winning a Supreme Court case that upheld his parliamentary election win. Nyindam described ongoing challenges in serving his constituents amid legal battles and political contestation, but insists he remains focused on development and legislative duties.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/for-one-year-ive-never-had-peace-to-work-kpandai-mp-after-supreme-court-victory/
📉 BoG Governor: Falling Interest Rates See Banks Aggressively Chasing Loan Customers
Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison says interest rates have eased, prompting commercial banks to aggressively pursue lending opportunities. The shift follows monetary policy adjustments aimed at stimulating credit growth in the economy. However, the governor cautioned about maintaining sound risk management as financial institutions expand loan portfolios.
Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/interest-rates-have-eased-banks-now-chasing-customers-with-loans-bog-governor/
🏦 Bank of Ghana Tightens Microfinance Rules, Raises Capital Requirements
The Bank of Ghana has announced new regulations for the microfinance sector, raising minimum capital requirements and setting a deadline of December 31, 2026, for compliance. The regulatory reset aims to strengthen financial stability, protect depositors and ensure that microfinance institutions are resilient and well-governed. The changes form part of broader efforts to modernise Ghana’s financial landscape.
Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/bog-resets-microfinance-rules-raises-capital-and-sets-2026-deadline/
🌍 Sam Jonah Says Africa Must Be “Unapologetically Selfish” Amid Global Fractures
Renowned Ghanaian mining leader Sam Jonah has called on African nations to adopt a more self-centred approach in global affairs as the international order fractures. Speaking at an event, Jonah stressed that Africa must leverage its resources and collective bargaining power to safeguard its interests rather than rely on external actors. His remarks reflect growing discourse around African agency and economic independence.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/africa-must-be-unapologetically-selfish-as-global-order-fractures-sam-jonah/
⚖️ Captain Smart Dragged to Court Over Claims Involving Rawlings’ Selma Al-Hassan
Ghanaian media personality Captain Smart has been summoned to court over alleged defamatory claims involving Selma Al-Hassan, daughter of late President Jerry John Rawlings. The case centres on statements made on air that are said to have damaged reputations, highlighting ongoing tensions between public figures and media accountability. Legal proceedings will determine the merits of the defamation suit.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Captain-Smart-dragged-to-court-over-claim-involving-Rawlings-Selma-Al-Hassan-2019299
📉 Bank of Ghana Cuts Gold Exposure by 50% on Concentration Risk Concerns
The Bank of Ghana has slashed its gold reserve exposure by 50%, citing concentration risk concerns. The adjustment aims to mitigate vulnerabilities from overreliance on gold holdings amid volatile global markets. Financial experts say the move aligns with prudent risk management and diversification strategies as central banks globally reassess reserve compositions.
Read more: https://thebftonline.com/2026/01/29/bog-cuts-gold-exposure-by-50-on-concentration-concerns/
Return often for more verified news summaries and developments shaping Ghana, Africa and the world.
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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