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Ghana News Live Updates – January 10: Catch up all the major local news stories

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Here is a curated summary of the key stories in Ghana today. Check back regularly as we bring you verified reports as they happen.


Domestic Blaze in Tse Addo Destroys Wooden Structures

A domestic fire broke out on January 9, 2026, at Tse Addo near the God Super Church in the Greater Accra Region. Firefighters responded swiftly after the blaze was reported at 8:01 a.m., bringing it under control by 8:32 a.m. and fully extinguishing it by 10:36 a.m. No injuries or fatalities were recorded.

However, nine wooden structures and their contents were completely destroyed, and a metal container was partially damaged. Emergency responders managed to save nearby buildings, including a self-contained house and the church. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.


Nine Remanded Over Assault on Police at Obuasi SHS Park

Nine suspects have been remanded into police custody by the Obuasi Circuit Court for their alleged involvement in an assault on police officers at the Tweapease Senior High School Park in the Ashanti Region. The men were arraigned and charged with assault on public officers following a viral video of the incident. They remain in custody as investigations continue. The Ghana Police Service has warned the public against attacks on law enforcement personnel.


Legal Advocate Urges Akufo-Addo to Bring Ofori-Atta Home

Martin Kpebu (L) and Ken Ofori-Atta

Legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has urged former President Nana Akufo-Addo to encourage ex-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to return to Ghana and engage with ongoing legal and accountability processes. Kpebu said now is opportune for Ofori-Atta to face any formal proceedings at home, stressing the importance of physical presence in resolving matters tied to his tenure. The appeal comes amid broader public discourse about legal responsibility and the role of former officials in national accountability efforts. Ofori-Atta served under Akufo-Addo as finance minister.


AG Confirms GH¢22M in Tax Evasion on DRIP Transactions

The Attorney-General’s office has confirmed that GH¢22 million in taxes were evaded in connection with the District Roads Improvement Program (DRIP) transactions, following verification from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine announced on Newsfile, a renowned weekend news analysis show, that while the company involved admitted to erroneous tax-exempt clearances, this does not negate the legal determination that duty should have been paid upon importation. In addition to the evaded tax, an alleged overpayment of $2 million has also been flagged for further pursuit by the government. Dr. Ayine rejected suggestions that the issues stemmed from clerical errors, signaling the state’s firm stance on accountability and revenue protection.


Economists: Ghana’s Economy Improving, But Risks Still Loom

Economists and industry stakeholders have noted improvement in Ghana’s economic performance, yet remain cautious about persistent risks. The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) highlighted gains compared to past years as well as underlying vulnerabilities that demand continued fiscal discipline and policy focus. According to COPEC, while macroeconomic indicators show progress, structural challenges and external pressures necessitate careful management to ensure sustained growth and economic resilience for Ghana in the year ahead.


Ayine Clarifies Ken Ofori-Atta’s U.S. Visa Revocation

Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine has clarified that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s U.S. visa revocation was not due to an overstay, countering public speculation. The clarification on Saturday, January 10, 2026, on a wide-ranging interview on Newsfile, comes amid heightened scrutiny of Ofori-Atta’s legal exposure and international standing, as Ghana intensifies accountability measures involving former officials.


Ayine Assures Fair Trial for Ofori-Atta

Dr. Ayine also formally assured lawyers for Ken Ofori-Atta that Ghana’s justice system will guarantee a fair and impartial process, reinforcing the government’s stance that accountability efforts will adhere strictly to the rule of law rather than political retribution.


Ayine Criticizes Saglémi Prosecution

Still on Newsfile, the Attorney-General described the prosecution of the Saglemi housing case as poorly investigated and weakly constructed, raising broader concerns about prosecutorial standards and institutional competence in high-profile corruption cases. According to him, it was legally and logically impossible to charge former Minister Collins Dauda with causing a $200 million financial loss. Dr Ayine revealed that only $94 million had been spent by the time Dauda left office, and prosecutors failed to show how his actions could be directly linked to the entire alleged loss.


ORAL Initiative to Boost State Revenue

The Office of the Attorney-General has assured Ghanaians that funds will soon begin flowing into state coffers through the ORAL (Operation Recover All Loot) initiative, signaling a more aggressive approach to asset recovery and public financial accountability.


Parkinson’s Disease to Benefit from Mahama Cares

The Ministry of Health has announced that Parkinson’s disease will be integrated into the Mahama Cares social protection framework, marking a significant expansion of Ghana’s public health safety net for chronic neurological conditions.


Mahama Orders Review of NLA–KGL Contract

President John Dramani Mahama has ordered a comprehensive review of the National Lottery Authority–KGL contract. The move reflects renewed scrutiny of the controversial public-private partnership and the Mahama government’s broader transparency agenda.


Emirates A380 Diverts to Accra After Smoke Alert

An Emirates A380 aircraft en route from Dubai diverted safely to Kotoka International Airport after a smoke alert in its cargo hold, highlighting Ghana’s growing role as a regional aviation safety and emergency response hub.


Mobile Money Vendor’s Death Sparks Public Concern

A mobile money vendor in Hohoe has died in an incident authorities say involved suicide, prompting renewed conversations about economic stress, mental health, and informal sector vulnerabilities in Ghana.


Domelevo Calls for Transparency in ORAL

Former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo has urged authorities to keep the ORAL initiative active and transparent to maintain public confidence, stressing that credibility is essential for long-term institutional reform.


Special Needs Education to Be Free

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced that special needs education will be free from this academic year, a landmark policy shift aimed at improving inclusion and equal access to education nationwide.


Ofori-Atta Linked to U.S. Residency Application

Legal practitioner Martin Kpebu claims Ken Ofori-Atta has applied for U.S. permanent residency through his son, adding an international dimension to ongoing legal and political discussions surrounding the former finance minister.


NPP Campaign Boycott Threat Emerges

Claims have surfaced that Bryan Acheamong, a NPP presidential-candidate aspirant, threatened to boycott the NPP primaries following a dispute involving the Kwahu Traditional Council.


Family of Slain U.S.-Based Ghanaian Speaks Out

The family of George Ennin, the U.S.-based Ghanaian security guard who was fatally stabbed recently, has said they are heartbroken by the tragic incident. His sister has revealed that he could not survive because he was stabbed in the heart.


Ghana News

Ghana Leads African Central Banks in Gold Reserve Accumulation as Global Buying Wave Hits $2 Billion

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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.

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Ghana News

LGBTQ Debate Intensifies After Mahama Comments, Moody’s Upgrades Ghana Outlook and Other Big Stories Today

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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Catholic Bishops Reject Trivialization of LGBTQ+ Debate by Mahama Government: ‘Nations Do Not Live by Bread Alone’

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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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