Ghana News
Ghana News Live Updates: Catch up on all the Breaking News Today (Feb. 16, 2026)
Welcome to today’s real-time updates of developments in Ghana for Sunday, February 16, 2026. Return often for fresh summaries as stories break.
One Dead as Police Recover Five Assault Rifles After Shootout in Bono Region
One person has been killed and five assault rifles recovered following a shootout between police and suspected armed robbers in the Bono Region on February 13, 2026. The incident occurred during a police operation targeting criminal elements in the area. The suspects opened fire on officers, prompting a return of fire that resulted in one fatality. Police say the recovered weapons are linked to recent robberies in the region. Investigations are ongoing to identify the deceased and apprehend any fleeing suspects.
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CHRAJ Clears Mahama Appointee in Asset Declaration Saga
The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has cleared a presidential appointee of President John Dramani Mahama in an asset declaration probe. In a ruling issued February 17, 2026, CHRAJ found no evidence of wilful failure to declare assets as required under Article 286 of the 1992 Constitution. The decision ends speculation surrounding the appointee’s compliance and reaffirms the commission’s role in enforcing transparency among public officials.
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Cocoa Farmers Welcome COCOBOD Salary Cuts Amid Liquidity Challenges
Cocoa farmers have expressed support for the Ghana Cocoa Board’s (COCOBOD) decision to implement salary cuts for senior management and cost-control measures amid severe liquidity pressures. The move follows an emergency Cabinet directive to stabilise the sector and clear legacy arrears. Farmers described the salary reductions as a “necessary sacrifice” to protect frontline payments and sustain purchasing operations during the current crisis.
Read the full story here.
I’m a Cocoa Farmer Too – Mahama Speaks on Price Cuts and Farmer Pain Amid Crises
President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that he personally owns a cocoa farm and fully understands the pain farmers are enduring due to price adjustments and payment delays. Speaking at the maiden Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition on Tuesday, February 17, the President stated that he directly understands the economic pressures facing cocoa farmers, particularly amid recent volatility in global cocoa prices and recent developments within the sector.
Read the full story here.
Police Re-Arrest Abdul Aziz Iddrisu, Suspected Killer in Bawku Chieftaincy Violence
The Ghana Police Service has re-arrested Abdul Aziz Iddrisu, a key suspect in the murder of a traditional leader during chieftaincy violence in Bawku. The re-arrest took place on February 13, 2026, after he was initially granted bail but failed to meet court conditions. Police say Iddrisu is linked to the fatal shooting that escalated ethnic and chieftaincy tensions in the Upper East Region. He remains in custody pending further investigations and court proceedings.
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Association of Banks CEO Hails ‘Unpalatable’ Decision to Save COCOBOD from Collapse
The CEO of the Ghana Association of Banks, John Awuah, has commended the government’s decision to slash the cocoa producer price, calling it a necessary, though “unpalatable,” move to prevent COCOBOD’s insolvency. He praised President Mahama and Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson for prioritizing national survival. Awuah also called for urgent internal reforms at COCOBOD, including tackling overstaffing and procurement inefficiencies. Read the full story here.
‘Not One Warning Issued’ – Prof. Aning Criticises Gov’t Over Failure to Alert Tomato Traders on Burkina Faso Risk
Security expert Professor Kwesi Aning has strongly criticised Ghanaian authorities for failing to issue travel warnings to traders heading to Burkina Faso, following a deadly terrorist attack that killed several Ghanaian tomato traders. Speaking on JoyNews, Prof. Aning stated that no formal advisory was issued by any state institution or trade union, leaving citizens to travel into a conflict zone unaware. He has called for urgent safety protocols for Ghanaians trading in the Sahel region. Read the full story here.
GoldBod Suspends Selected Gold Buying Licence Applications Ahead of Regulatory Reforms
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has temporarily suspended the processing of new and selected pending applications for gold buying licences as part of ongoing regulatory reforms. The suspension, announced February 14, 2026, aims to allow time for the introduction of stricter compliance requirements, enhanced traceability systems, and anti-smuggling measures. Existing licensed buyers are unaffected and can continue operations. GoldBod reiterated its commitment to formalising the sector, curbing illegal trade, and ensuring fair pricing and accountability throughout the gold value chain.
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Five Arrested Over Tramadol Haul and Attempted GH¢50k Bribe
Five suspects have been arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) for attempting to smuggle a large consignment of tramadol and offering a GH¢50,000 bribe to officers during an operation in Accra on February 13, 2026. The suspects were intercepted with thousands of tramadol tablets concealed in vehicle compartments. NACOC officials confirmed the attempted bribe was rejected and recorded, and all five individuals are in custody assisting with investigations. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat pharmaceutical drug trafficking and corruption within enforcement operations.
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7 Ghanaian Traders Killed in Titao Terrorist Attack Buried in Burkina Faso
Seven Ghanaian tomato traders killed in a terrorist attack in Titao, Burkina Faso, on February 14, 2026, have been buried in Burkina Faso after coordination between Ghanaian and Burkinabè authorities. The Ministry of the Interior confirmed the deaths following a joint visit to the attack site by Ghana’s embassy officials and local security personnel. The victims were part of a convoy transporting goods across the border when the vehicle was ambushed by suspected jihadist elements in the volatile Sahel region. The government has pledged support to the bereaved families and called for enhanced cross-border security measures.
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Govt Approves Cabinet Directives Following Review of Over 8,000 Land Leases Nationwide
The government has approved a set of cabinet directives following a comprehensive review of more than 8,000 state land leases across Ghana. The measures, announced February 13, 2026, aim to address irregularities, revoke improperly acquired leases, recover encroached or underutilised public lands, and strengthen land administration to prevent future abuse. The review was part of President Mahama’s broader “Reset Ghana” agenda to enhance transparency, protect state assets, and promote equitable access to land for development.
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Alhaji of Radio Univers Dies Aged 63
Alhaji, a veteran broadcaster and longtime presenter on Radio Univers (University of Ghana’s campus station), has passed away at the age of 63. The popular media personality, known for his engaging style and contributions to campus and community broadcasting, died on February 13, 2026. Colleagues, alumni, and listeners have paid tribute to his dedication, humour, and mentorship of young broadcasters over more than three decades on air. Funeral arrangements are being finalised by the family and Radio Univers management.
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7 Ghanaians Reportedly Killed in Burkina Faso Terrorist Attack
Seven Ghanaian nationals are feared dead after a truck carrying tomato traders from Ghana was attacked by suspected terrorists in Titao, Burkina Faso, on Saturday, February 14, 2026. The Ministry of the Interior confirmed the incident, stating the Ghana Embassy in Ouagadougou is liaising with local authorities to visit the site, confirm identities, and provide support. The attack occurred in a volatile Sahel border region where terrorist groups have intensified cross-border operations.
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No More Excuses – NCA Rolls Out Stricter Mobile Service Standards
The National Communications Authority (NCA) has introduced tougher quality-of-service standards for mobile network operators, effective immediately. The new rules, announced February 13, 2026, set minimum benchmarks for call drop rates, data speeds, network availability, and customer complaint resolution times, with heavy fines for persistent violations. The NCA said the measures aim to end years of public complaints about poor service and force operators to invest in infrastructure upgrades.
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Ex-Sergeant Peter Tasiri, Main Brain Behind June 4 Uprising, Is Dead
Retired Sergeant Peter Tasiri, widely regarded as one of the key architects and ideologues of the June 4, 1979, Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) uprising in Ghana, has died. The former soldier, who played a central role in the revolutionary events that led to the execution of eight senior military officers, passed away on February 13, 2026. Tributes have poured in from veterans, historians, and political figures acknowledging his controversial yet pivotal place in Ghana’s post-independence history.
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Return to Lecture Halls Effective Feb 16 – CETAG Directs Members
The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has directed its members to resume in-person lectures starting Monday, February 16, 2026, following the suspension of an earlier strike. The directive, issued February 13, 2026, comes after negotiations with government representatives addressed outstanding concerns over conditions of service and allowances. CETAG urged full compliance to avoid disruptions to the academic calendar.
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Accra Gridlock Costs Ghana GH¢4.5bn a Year – Report
Traffic congestion in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area costs the Ghanaian economy an estimated GH¢4.5 billion annually in lost productivity, fuel waste, vehicle maintenance, and health impacts, according to a new study released February 13, 2026. The report, commissioned by the Ministry of Roads and Highways, highlights peak-hour delays averaging 2–3 hours daily and calls for urgent investment in mass transit, road expansion, smart traffic systems, and alternative transport corridors.
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NPA Raises Price Floor for Feb 16 Window: Petrol Up to GH¢10.24, Diesel Pegged at GH¢11.34
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has adjusted the price floors for the February 16 pricing window, increasing the maximum retail price for petrol to GH¢10.24 per litre and setting diesel at GH¢11.34 per litre. The February 13, 2026, announcement reflects movements in global crude prices, exchange rate fluctuations, and local taxes. The NPA assured consumers that margins remain regulated to prevent excessive profiteering by Oil Marketing Companies.
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AGI Demands Protection for Local Manufacturers Under 24-Hour Economy
The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has called for strong safeguards for local manufacturers as government pushes ahead with the 24-hour economy policy. In a February 13, 2026, statement, AGI President Dr. Humphrey Ayim Darku warned that unrestricted foreign competition could undermine domestic industries, job creation, and value addition. The group urged the government to prioritise local content, tax incentives, and import substitution in the policy rollout.
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GTYA Calls for Urgent Road Safety and Infrastructure Reforms After Nsawam Tanker Explosion
The Ghana Tyre and Automotive Association (GTYA) has renewed calls for comprehensive road safety and infrastructure reforms following the fatal fuel tanker explosion on the Nsawam-Accra highway that killed three people on February 14, 2026. GTYA President Dr. Kwame Agyemang highlighted the need for mandatory speed limiters, fire-suppression systems on tankers, better road design, and stricter enforcement to prevent recurrence of such tragedies.
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T-Bills Investors Ignore Low Yields to Tender GH¢22.66 Billion Bids in Appetite Surge
Investors submitted GH¢22.66 billion in bids for Treasury bills in the February 13, 2026, auction, far exceeding the target despite historically low yields. The surge in demand reflects continued strong confidence in government debt instruments amid macroeconomic stabilisation efforts and attractive risk-adjusted returns compared to alternative savings options.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has welcomed the commissioning of a new Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at the National Cardiothoracic Centre of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, describing the facility as a “significant investment” in the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and a critical step toward saving lives.
President John Dramani Mahama officially inaugurated the state-of-the-art laboratory on July 9, 2026—sixteen months after a devastating fire destroyed the country’s previous catheterization laboratory, which had provided specialized cardiac diagnostic and interventional services since January 2017.
The new facility was reconstructed through the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known as MahamaCares, a statutory fund established to finance specialized and high-cost treatment for chronic non-communicable diseases. The project aligns with the WHO’s strategy of strengthening countries’ capacity to prevent, detect, and manage NCDs, particularly cardiovascular diseases.
A Critical Gap Filled
The WHO noted that the recommissioning addresses a critical gap in Ghana’s healthcare system at a time when non-communicable diseases have become one of the country’s leading public health challenges.
“As Ghana faces a growing burden of NCDs, particularly cardiovascular diseases, this laboratory will improve timely diagnosis, expand cardiac care, and save lives,” the UN health agency stated.
Globally, NCDs account for 41 million deaths every year, representing nearly three-quarters of all deaths worldwide. More than 85% of premature NCD deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, according to the WHO.
The burden is similarly high in Ghana, where non-communicable diseases are estimated to account for about 45% of all deaths, driven largely by cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers, and chronic respiratory illnesses.
WHO’s Longstanding Support
The WHO has supported Ghana’s response through several initiatives, including the Ghana STEPS Survey 2023—a nationwide assessment of NCD risk factors co-funded by the governments of the United Kingdom and Norway—and the implementation of the WHO Package of Essential Noncommunicable Disease Interventions (PEN).
The PEN program seeks to strengthen primary healthcare by improving early diagnosis, standardizing treatment protocols, and enhancing referrals for patients with chronic diseases.
What the New Lab Means for Patients
The new catheterization laboratory is expected to significantly improve the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, addressing longstanding challenges including:
- Limited specialized equipment
- Delayed emergency cardiac care
- Inconsistent clinical management
- Inadequate monitoring of patients across different levels of the health system
For thousands of Ghanaians living with heart conditions, the facility represents more than just infrastructure—it offers a second chance at life, reducing the need for costly and often inaccessible overseas medical treatment.
A Broader Commitment
The commissioning marks a significant boost to Ghana’s capacity to deliver advanced cardiac care and reflects broader efforts to strengthen the country’s response to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases. As NCDs continue to rise across Africa, Ghana’s investment in specialized cardiac infrastructure offers a model for other nations grappling with the double burden of infectious and chronic diseases.
The new laboratory stands as a testament to what can be achieved when political will, international partnerships, and domestic health financing converge—a life-saving facility rebuilt from the ashes, ready to serve a nation determined to fight back against its deadliest silent killers.
President John Dramani Mahama on Friday joined thousands of Ghanaians in a nationwide clean-up exercise across the flood-ravaged Accra Metropolis, using the occasion to announce a new policy that would set aside one day every month for community cleaning—a move aimed at transforming crisis response into sustained civic routine.
The two-day National General Cleaning Exercise, which began at 6:00 am on Friday and resumes on Saturday, targets seven flood-affected regions, with Greater Accra alone hosting 104 identified flood-prone locations. At Tse Addo, President Mahama inspected a newly desilted drain, pointing to the volume of plastic waste removed as evidence of the cause behind Ghana’s recurring flooding disasters.
“Clearly, we can see the cause of some of the challenges we face. We have just desilted this drain, and the amount of plastic waste removed from it tells the story,” the President observed. He noted that the quantity of sand and silt accumulated over several years had drastically reduced the drain’s capacity to carry water effectively.
A Systemic Failure Exposed
The President acknowledged that previous clean-up efforts had been undermined by poor disposal practices—silt removed from drains was often left by the roadside, only to be washed back in when the rains returned.
“As part of this exercise, we must ensure that after removing the silt, we have the necessary capacity to transport it away and dispose of it at appropriate locations,” he said, adding that consistent effort over the next year or two would restore the drains’ capacity.
Monthly Clean-Up: From Crisis to Routine
In a significant policy announcement, President Mahama stressed that the cleanup should not be a one-time activity but a continuous national effort, with at least one day set aside every month for communities to clean their surroundings. The proposal signals a shift from reactive disaster response to proactive environmental governance—a model that development experts say could offer lessons for other rapidly urbanizing nations across the Global South.
Plastic Waste: The Hidden Culprit
At Alajo, where the desilted drain forms part of the Odaw stream, the President revealed two major challenges: the accumulation of silt and the presence of plastics and household waste, including discarded building materials, old furniture and dining tables.
“Drains are not dumping grounds,” Mahama stressed, urging residents to make use of skip containers placed across the city for proper collection by waste management companies. His remarks connect Ghana’s flooding crisis to a global environmental emergency—plastic waste clogging urban drainage systems—a problem that resonates from Jakarta to Lagos.
Military Deployment and Funding
The President disclosed that the Minister of Finance had released GH¢150 million to support dredging of streams and other flood interventions. He announced that the Armed Forces would continue the dredging exercise even after the two-day national cleanup program ended, with additional backhoes to be provided to help remove silt and transport it to approved disposal sites.
“Without proper disposal, the same silt and garbage will be washed back into the drains when the rains return,” he warned.
A Warning Against Complacency
In a striking metaphor, President Mahama cautioned against complacency, saying the country must not “behave like the vulture that plans to repair its roof only after the rains have stopped”.
“We must act now. That is why it is important that we clear our drains and waterways,” he stressed.
The President attributed some of the current sanitation challenges to the pressures of urbanization, noting that traditional values around keeping the environment clean had, in some cases, been abandoned as a result of the anonymity that comes with city life. He called for a restoration of that discipline and commended traditional leaders, including Nii Ga, for their support in mobilizing residents.
What Happens Next
The two-day exercise, which requires non-essential shops, markets, and commercial establishments within affected regions to remain closed from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm, is expected to mobilize millions of citizens. Saturday’s phase will shift focus toward community-level activities, with residents, volunteer groups, traditional authorities, and waste management companies taking the lead.
For many Ghanaians, however, the biggest question is whether the monthly clean-up proposal will be sustained—or whether it will fade after the current crisis subsides. The answer may ultimately determine whether Ghana’s latest flood response becomes remembered as a turning point in environmental governance, or yet another missed opportunity.
ACCRA, Ghana – July 10, 2026 – A two-day nationwide clean-up exercise across seven flood-ravaged regions began Friday morning sluggishly.
Authorities have been urging residents, businesses, and institutions to ramp up participation as teams work to clear refuse, desilt choked drains, and restore public spaces following recent devastating floods.
The exercise, which commenced at 6:00 am local time, will run until 1:00 pm and resume on Saturday, July 11, during the same hours. While early-morning activity in several metropolitan areas was initially subdued, officials report that momentum is gradually building as local assemblies, waste management contractors, security services, and volunteer groups deploy to designated hotspots.
According to the government’s outlined schedule, the first day focuses on Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), public and private institutions, educational bodies, and waste management firms.
Saturday’s phase will pivot toward community-led efforts, tapping into residents, traditional authorities, and volunteer networks to drive localized clean-up at the grassroots level.
In a bid to maximize turnout, non-essential shops, markets, and commercial establishments within the seven affected regions have been ordered to shut their doors from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm on both days, with exemptions granted only to essential and emergency service providers.
The Ministry has called on transport operators, religious groups, and corporate entities to actively back the initiative, framing it as a critical step toward restoring safe, hygienic communities after the flooding crisis.
Greater Accra, the epicenter of the recent deluge, hosts the bulk of the operation, with authorities identifying 104 flood-prone and affected locations across 17 assemblies. Key areas include, Ga South (Tetegu, STC, Mallam East, New Weija), Ga Central (Awoshie, Kolegu, Israel, A-Land), Ga North (Pokuase Footbridge, Ofankor Barrier), and Ga East (Dome Market, Abokobi Drain). In the capital’s core, heavy machinery and manual crews are converging on major drainage arteries such as Alajo, Kokomlemle, Pig Farm, Mamobi, Nima Highway, the Kanda stretch to Kawukudi, and the 37 Hospital corridor. Coastal communities like Teshie-Nungua, Prampram, Sege, and Tema West’s industrial and residential zones are also actively participating.
Despite the tepid start, authorities remain optimistic that participation will surge as the morning progresses, setting the stage for an even more robust community-driven effort on Saturday.
The exercise represents the government’s most visible response to the recent flooding emergency, mobilizing public administration and local governance structures to tackle the immediate environmental and health hazards facing affected populations.
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