Ghana News
How Ghana Is Working With WHO and CDC to Stop Hantavirus Before It Arrives
No cases have been recorded on its soil, but Ghana is not waiting for Hantavirus to arrive.
Instead, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has activated a multi-layered response in close collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), following a deadly outbreak on a cruise ship docked in Cape Verde.
The outbreak, which as of May 7, 2026, has infected at least eight people, with five confirmed cases and three deaths, has triggered global concern. The affected vessel carried crew members primarily from the Philippines and passengers from the United States, Europe, South America, Australia, and parts of Asia.
Although the WHO and CDC have assessed the overall global public health risk as low, both agencies have advised nations to strengthen surveillance and preparedness. Ghana has responded by turning that advice into action.
A Coordinated International Response
At the heart of Ghana’s strategy is a three-part partnership: the WHO provides global epidemiological data and technical guidance; the CDC supplies risk assessment frameworks and laboratory protocols; and the Ghana Health Service executes on-the-ground measures tailored to the country’s ports, health facilities, and communities.
“The WHO and CDC, after risk assessment, have indicated that the overall global public health risk remains low. However, countries have been advised to strengthen surveillance and preparedness systems,” the GHS noted in its official press statement (published further down in this story).
Ghana has taken that advisory as a mandate for immediate action.
The Ministry of Health and the GHS are now collaborating with international partners, including the WHO and global disease surveillance networks, to ensure timely sharing of information. This real-time data exchange allows Ghana to adjust its protocols as the situation in Cape Verde evolves.
On the Ground: Enhanced Surveillance at All Ports of Entry
Ghana’s first line of defense is its Port Health Division. Enhanced surveillance has been deployed at all ports of entry, including the Kotoka International Airport in Accra, as well as the seaports at Tema and Takoradi. Health officials are screening travelers for symptoms consistent with Hantavirus, fever, headache, muscle pain, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing.
The GHS has also directed health facilities nationwide to intensify monitoring and reporting of unusual respiratory illnesses. Any patient presenting with fever and breathing difficulties, especially with a travel history to Cape Verde or potential rodent exposure, will trigger an alert protocol.
Strengthening Laboratory and Response Capacity
Recognizing that a threat is only as manageable as the ability to detect it, Ghana is strengthening its laboratory systems and rapid response capacity. The GHS is working with WHO and CDC reference labs to ensure that any suspected sample can be tested quickly and accurately. While Hantavirus is not yet in Ghana, the infrastructure being reinforced will also benefit responses to other emerging pathogens.
Rapid response teams have been placed on standby, equipped with protective gear and trained in safe isolation and transport procedures. The GHS has assured citizens that the country’s disease surveillance systems remain “active and capable” of responding to any potential threat.
Public Education: Rodent Control and Hygiene
Because Hantavirus is transmitted mainly through contact with infected rodents or exposure to their droppings, urine, saliva, or contaminated surfaces, Ghana’s prevention strategy extends beyond ports and hospitals. The GHS is stepping up public education on sanitation and rodent control.
Residents are being advised to maintain proper hygiene, keep their surroundings clean, store food safely, dispose of waste properly, and avoid direct contact with rodents and their droppings. For those cleaning potentially contaminated areas, the use of protective gearโgloves, masks, and disinfectantsโis strongly urged.
“Members of the public are advised to maintain proper hygiene, keep their surroundings clean, store food safely, dispose of waste properly, and avoid contact with rodents and their droppings,” the GHS statement stressed.
Why Ghana Is Not Waiting
Hantavirus is not new to science, but its appearance on a cruise ship in Cape Verde represents a novel pathway for regional spread. The virus does not transmit between humans easily; rather, it is typically acquired from rodent hosts. However, international travel and shipping can move infected rodents or contaminated materials across borders quickly.
Ghana’s proactive stance reflects lessons learned from past outbreaks, including Ebola and COVID-19. Waiting for a first case before activating full preparedness measures has proven costly elsewhere. By acting now, in partnership with the WHO and CDC, Ghana aims to ensure that “Hantavirus arrives” remains a hypothetical, not a headline.
Advice to the Public and Travelers
The GHS and Ministry of Health have urged the public to remain calm, avoid misinformation, and rely on official health updates. Travelers to Cape Verde or anyone returning from the region are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they develop fever or breathing difficulties, especially after possible rodent exposure.
For now, Ghana’s ports remain open, its health facilities are on alert, and its international partnerships are fully engaged. As the GHS put it: “No case of Hantavirus has been recorded in Ghana. Nonetheless, precautionary measures have been activated.”
That careful balance, vigilance without panic, action without alarm, defines Ghana’s approach to stopping Hantavirus before it arrives.

Ghana News
Black Stars Qualify for World Cup Round of 32, EU & Germany Inject โฌ415,000 into Ghanaโs Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, and Other Big Stories
These headlines have been carefully curated to give you a credible snapshot of the big issues in Ghana today.
Official: Ghana Qualify for FIFA World Cup Round of 32 Before Croatia Clash
Ghanaโs Black Stars have officially qualified for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of their final Group L match against Croatia. The qualification was confirmed after results elsewhere in the tournament ensured that four points would be sufficient to advance under the expanded 48-team format.
Carlos Queirozโs side sit on four points after a 1-0 win over Panama and a goalless draw against England. Ghana join Egypt, England, Portugal, and Paraguay among the first teams to book their knockout stage spots. A strong performance against Croatia could see them top the group. Read the full story here
EU, Germany Inject โฌ415,000 into Ghanaโs Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Drive
The European Union and the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development have provided a โฌ415,437.78 grant to launch the PharmaVax Programme, aimed at strengthening Ghanaโs pharmaceutical sector. The initiative focuses on regulatory governance, public-private partnerships, foreign direct investment, and digital transparency in licensing.
Officials say the programme will help reduce Ghanaโs reliance on imported medicines, create jobs, and position the country as a regional manufacturing hub by 2030. The Ministry of Trade and Agribusiness expressed gratitude for the support. Read the full story here
Ghana Deploys 47 Health Workers to Saint Kitts and Nevis
Ghana has deployed 47 health professionals to Saint Kitts and Nevis under its managed health workforce migration initiative. The move aims to provide safe employment opportunities abroad while protecting the local healthcare system through fixed-term contracts of two to three years.
Deputy Minister of Health Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah described the arrangement as a win-win, with workers expected to return with valuable experience. The professionals departed from the Accra International Airport. Read the full story here
Nduom Backs Indigenous Ownership if Standard Chartered Sells Retail Banking Business
Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom has called for any sale of Standard Chartered Bank Ghanaโs retail banking business to be reserved for indigenous Ghanaian companies. The Groupe Nduom chairman made the statement amid reports that the multinational bank may divest its retail operations in selected markets.
Nduom argued that Ghanaโs financial sector should prioritise local ownership to create greater opportunities for indigenous firms. The comment has rekindled debate on local participation in banking. Read the full story here
Croatia vs Ghana: Semenyo Insists Team is Focused on Finishing Off Right
Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo says the team is โready, excited and good to goโ for their final Group L match against Croatia, despite already qualifying for the Round of 32. He credited coach Carlos Queiroz for the teamโs defensive solidity and said they are determined to finish the group stage strongly.
Semenyo noted that external doubt has motivated the squad, adding that they know what they can achieve as a team. A win against Croatia could secure top spot in Group L. Read the full story here
โAll Attempts to Prevent Pregnancies Have Failedโ โ Mother of 23 Children Appeals for Help
A pregnant woman identified as Maame Atta, who is already a mother of 23 children, has made a public appeal for support. The woman, who has had 10 pregnancies including seven sets of twins and three sets of triplets, says she has tried various family planning methods without success.
She described the burden of feeding, clothing, educating, and providing healthcare for her large family as overwhelming and is seeking help from individuals and organisations. Read the full story here
โThey Bully Us Every Dayโ โ Ghanaian Children in South Africa Recount Xenophobic Abuse
Three Ghanaian children living in South Africa have shared harrowing accounts of daily bullying and discrimination at school due to their Ghanaian heritage. The children, aged 6, 7, and 11, described being insulted, excluded, and physically harassed by classmates and even teachers.
Their father, Isaac Owusu, said the family is prepared to return to Ghana amid rising xenophobic tensions and the reported June 30 deadline for foreigners to leave. Read the full story here
Gunmen Shoot Community Police Assistant in Central Region
Gunmen have shot a 27-year-old Community Police Assistant, Emmanuel Agyapong, in the thigh during an attack at Dwakessiem near Dunkwa-on-Offin in the Central Region. The incident occurred after an altercation involving the victim and occupants of a motorbike.
Agyapong is receiving treatment at the Okomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. Police have launched a manhunt for the suspects, who allegedly used a pump-action shotgun. Read the full story here
Ghana News
Todayโs Newspaper Headlines: Friday, June 26, 2026
Friday’s front pages across Ghana’s leading newspapers capture a nation focused on major economic reforms, legal battles, and political tensions.
1. GoldBod signs historic pact with large-scale miners to purchase 30% of gold production
Sources: Daily Graphic, Daily Guide, Newscanta, The Chronicle, The New Crusading Guide
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has signed a landmark agreement with the Ghana Chamber of Mines to purchase 30% of all gold produced by large-scale mining companies, effective 1 July 2026. The deal raises the previous uptake from 20% and is expected to significantly boost Ghana’s gold reserves and stabilise the cedi. GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi signed alongside Chamber President Frederick Attakumah and CEO Kenneth Ashigbey.
2. Herald managing editor Larry Dogbey jailed for contempt of court
Sources: The Daily Analyst, Newscanta, Daily Guide
Larry Alans Dogbey, Managing Editor of The Herald newspaper, has been jailed for contempt of court despite a service notice filed in his defence. The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has described the conviction as “unfortunate” and called for calm while standing with the jailed journalist.
3. Kantanka family demands attempted murder charges against Akofena
Sources: The New Crusading Guide, The Chronicle, The Daily Analyst, The National, The Source
The Kantanka family has formally called on police to press attempted murder charges against Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena in connection with the shooting of Sarah Adwoa Safo. The family’s appeal intensifies the ongoing Kristo Asafo succession crisis and legal battle.
4. Minority protests utility tariff hikes, calls for review
Sources: The Daily Analyst, The New Crusading Guide, The Chronicle, The Source
The Minority in Parliament has rejected recent electricity and water tariff hikes by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), describing the increases as contradictory to claims of fiscal gains. Minority leaders argued the hikes would cripple the government’s 24-hour economy agenda and burden consumers.
5. NPP refers Kennedy Agyapong to disciplinary committee
Sources: The Daily Analyst, Daily Guide
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has referred petitions against outspoken politician Kennedy Agyapong to its disciplinary committee. The move follows internal tensions and growing calls for the party to address perceived infractions ahead of the 2028 elections.
6. Amrahia demolition victims appeal to President Mahama for intervention
Sources: Newscanta, The New Crusading Guide
Residents of Amrahia, whose properties were demolished in a controversial exercise, have appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to intervene and probe the demolitions. The residents allege procedural violations and lack of adequate compensation.
7. Cabinet approves State Assets Protection Bill and Anti-Corruption Plan
Sources: The Daily Analyst, The Daily Statesman
The Cabinet has approved the State Assets Protection Bill and a comprehensive Anti-Corruption Plan. The legislation aims to safeguard state assets from misuse and strengthen accountability in public office, according to President Mahama.
8. Sedina Tamakloe imprisonment sparks controversy over 15-day delay
Sources: Daily Guide, The Daily Analyst, Daily Express
The Minority has raised allegations of a 15-day delay in jailing former MASLOC boss Sedina Tamakloe Attionu, sparking fresh political controversy. The Interior Minister clarified that Tamakloe is “chilling in a Ghana prison” but questions remain over the timeline of her incarceration.
9. Black Stars set for Croatia clash as World Cup campaign continues
Sources: The New Crusading Guide, Daily Express
The Black Stars are preparing for a crucial World Cup clash against Croatia that could place the team in a better position for the Round of 32. Former Black Stars midfielder Dr. Ofori-Sarpong has charged the team to “play for Ghana with courage and confidence” as they aim to advance.
10. Ghana’s public debt hits GHยข726.7 billion in 2024
Sources: The Daily Analyst
Ghana’s public debt has reached GHยข726.7 billion as of the end of 2024, according to official figures. The figure highlights the country’s fiscal challenges and the government’s ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy amid rising interest costs and currency pressures.
Ghana News
GoldBod Secures Major Gold Purchase Deal, Journalist Jailed for Contempt, and Other Big Stories in Ghana Today
These are today, Friday, June 26, 2026’s big stories across news platforms.
GoldBod Secures Landmark Deal to Purchase 30% of Large-Scale Minersโ Gold Output
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has signed a landmark agreement with the Ghana Chamber of Mines to purchase 30% of the gold output from all large-scale mining companies, effective July 1, 2026. Under the deal, miners will sell dorรฉ gold locally in cedis at a 0.55% discount using the Bank of Ghana reference rate.
The arrangement aims to support local refining, secure LBMA accreditation for a Ghanaian refinery by 2030, and advance President Mahamaโs vision of ending raw mineral exports. It forms part of the Ghana Accelerated National Reserve Accumulation Programme (GANRAP). Read the full story here
GJA Seeks Legal Guidance After Journalist Larry Dogbey Jailed for Contempt
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed deep concern over the conviction and seven-day jail sentence handed to Larry Alans Dogbey, Managing Editor of The Herald newspaper, for contempt of court. The Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Isaac Addo, sentenced Dogbey following a publication related to a legal dispute involving businessman Kevin Okyere and Petraco SA.
In a statement signed by General Secretary Dominic Hlordzi, the GJA described the development as unfortunate and announced it is seeking legal advice from its team to determine the next course of action. The association pledged solidarity with Dogbey, reiterated its commitment to press freedom and responsible journalism, and urged calm while legal processes continue. Read the full story here
NPP Refers Petitions Against Kennedy Agyapong to Disciplinary Committee
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has referred former presidential aspirant Kennedy Ohene Agyapong to its National Disciplinary Committee following multiple petitions over his recent public comments. The decision was taken by the partyโs National Executive Committee and National Council, with the committee given two weeks to investigate and submit recommendations.
The petitions stem from Agyapongโs criticism of certain decisions by the previous NPP administration, including the non-operationalisation of the Afari Military Hospital and his warning that he would โspill the beansโ if silenced. National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye confirmed the move as part of efforts to maintain party unity. Read the full story here
Police Bust Kumasi Drug Ring, Arrest Notorious Peddler โCon Papaโ
The Ghana Police Service has dismantled a major drug distribution ring in Kumasi, arresting several suspects including the notorious peddler Kwame Afriyie, alias โCon Papaโ or โAmerican Manโ. A raid on his residence and shop in Asawase yielded large quantities of compressed cannabis.
Other arrests included Kofi Acheampong (โMokobileyโ) in Asafo and a National Service personnel in Krofrom found with cannabis-laced drinks. Additional suspects were rounded up across multiple suburbs in a coordinated operation by the IGP Special Operations Team and Ashanti Regional Police. Read the full story here
Former Chief Justice Torkornoo Files New Motion at Supreme Court
Former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has filed a fresh application at the Supreme Court seeking a review of its May 28, 2026 ruling on cases challenging her removal from office. She argues the courtโs actions violated her right to a fair hearing, particularly after her lawyer withdrew and the Attorney-General was absent.
Torkornoo is asking the apex court to set aside the orders made on that day under Article 133 of the Constitution. Read the full story here
Sentuo Oil Refinery to Refine 100,000 Barrels Per Day โ Energy Minister
Energy and Green Transition Minister John Abdulai Jinapor has announced that the ongoing expansion of the Sentuo Oil Refinery will increase its capacity from 40,000 to 100,000 barrels per day upon completion. The project is expected to create about 1,500 jobs, up from the current 700โ800.
Jinapor described the development as a major boost to Ghanaโs energy security and local value addition. Read the full story here
Flooding in Ghana: Asantehene Calls for Engineering Solutions
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has challenged engineers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to develop lasting solutions to Ghanaโs perennial flooding crisis. Speaking at the launch of KNUSTโs 75th anniversary, he stressed the need for technical expertise in drainage design, urban planning, and waste management.
The Asantehene warned that without urgent engineering interventions, flooding would continue to overwhelm the country. Read the full story here
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