The President of Liberia, Joseph Boakai, has been confirmed as an esteemed speaker at the upcoming Next Steps Conference on Reparatory Justice in Accra, Ghana’s Foreign Minister announced, as the landmark event takes shape just months after a historic United Nations resolution declared the transatlantic slave trade a crime against humanity.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, made the confirmation in a social media post that has rapidly gained international attention.

“Delighted to confirm that the President of Liberia is one of our confirmed esteemed speakers at the Next Steps Conference on Reparatory Justice being hosted by President Mahama in Accra,” Ablakwa wrote.

The three-day conference, scheduled to run from June 17 to June 19, 2026, will be held under the auspices of Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, who also serves as the African Union Champion for Reparations.

The Liberian leader joins a growing roster of world leaders, foreign affairs ministers, academics, historians, jurists, activists, and international organizations set to convene in Ghana’s capital.

A Historic UN Backdrop

The Accra conference follows a watershed moment at the United Nations. On March 25, 2026, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/80/250 – the first resolution in the body’s 80-year history dedicated exclusively to slavery and the transatlantic slave trade. The measure passed with 123 votes in favor.

The resolution formally declares the trafficking of enslaved Africans and racialized chattel enslavement as “the gravest crime against humanity.” It calls for good-faith dialogue on reparatory justice and the prompt restitution of cultural properties. Coming 25 years after the Durban Declaration, the resolution marks a fundamental departure from purely commemorative gestures, replacing them with the pursuit of historical truth, reconciliation, and systemic justice.

From Declaration to Action

According to Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the June conference will focus on translating the UN resolution’s principles into practical global frameworks and policy approaches to advance reparatory justice.

The gathering is expected to produce concrete recommendations and action plans to guide future continental and international engagements on reparations.

A deeply symbolic moment will take place on the final day of the conference, June 19, when Ghana hosts what officials describe as the first-ever joint Juneteenth commemoration with African Americans at Christiansborg Castle – a site directly linked to the transatlantic slave trade. The event is intended to promote remembrance, healing, and justice.

Strengthening Africa’s Voice

The Ministry added that the conference would strengthen Africa’s collective voice on reparatory justice and deepen collaboration between African states, the diaspora, and international partners.

“President Mahama and the people of Ghana look forward to welcoming participants from around the world to Accra for what is a defining conference on reparatory justice,” the Ministry stated.

Further details on registration, participation, and accreditation are available on the official conference website.

We have carefully curated the most relevant stories from across Ghana, offering our global audience a clear snapshot of key developments in weather, sports, economy, security, health, and environment as they unfold. Stay tuned.

GMet Issues Alert for Moderate to Heavy Rains and Possible Flooding Across Ghana

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has warned of moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential localised flooding in several regions on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Affected areas include parts of the Western, Central, Greater Accra, and Volta regions between early morning and mid-morning, with the northern sector (Upper East, North East, Northern, Upper West, and Savannah) facing thunderstorms and heavy rains extending into the afternoon. Higher risks are noted in some Upper West and Savannah communities. Residents are urged to stay alert, avoid unnecessary travel during downpours, secure loose objects, and steer clear of flood-prone areas and storm drains.

GMet classified risks as “Be Prepared” and “Be Aware” in impacted zones, highlighting dangers such as damage to weak structures, uprooted trees, and transportation disruptions. This alert comes amid broader seasonal weather patterns affecting the country. Read the full story here

2. FIFA Issues Disclaimer After Canada Denies Thomas Partey Entry for World Cup Opener

Ghana’s Black Stars have suffered a significant setback as influential midfielder Thomas Partey has been denied entry into Canada by authorities, preventing him from participating in the team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Group H opener against Panama on June 17. FIFA confirmed the visa refusal in a statement, clarifying it has no role in host countries’ immigration decisions, which remain the sole jurisdiction of national governments. Partey was with the squad at their training base in Boston, USA.

The absence of the experienced midfielder, a key figure in Ghana’s midfield for leadership and tactical control, raises questions about team adjustments. The multi-nation hosting (USA, Canada, Mexico) has introduced complex travel and visa logistics. Read the full story here

3. Government Statistician Predicts Easing Inflation Thanks to Upcoming Harvest Season

Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu anticipates a decline in inflation later in 2026, driven by the main harvest season’s impact on food prices, which form a major part of the Consumer Price Index. Despite recent rises in food inflation (to 3.3% year-on-year in May), he noted mixed price movements and historical patterns where harvests bring relief. He emphasized that current high levels are not expected to persist indefinitely.

Additional positive factors include the recent recovery of the Ghana cedi, potentially lowering costs for imported inputs. Dr. Iddrisu called for sustained fiscal discipline, investments in storage, irrigation, transport, and addressing market inequalities to bolster food security and economic stability. He also highlighted moderate growth in most agricultural sub-sectors despite challenges in fishing. Read the full story here

4. Newborn Baby Disappears from Salaga Hospital After Nurse’s Alleged Joke

A newborn has gone missing at the Salaga Municipal Hospital, prompting concerns after an Assembly Member reported that a nurse jokingly asked the mother to “gift” her the beautiful baby shortly before the disappearance. Assemblyman Thomas Gyando of Kito Electoral Area described how the family was repeatedly denied access to the infant despite assurances of stability post-delivery, with the father being sent on errands. Hospital staff later informed the family the baby could not be found.

Police have been notified and investigations are ongoing. The family insists on thorough verification, including medical tests, for any child presented. The incident has raised serious questions about security and procedures at the facility. Read the full story here

5. Ex-Soldier Claims Dismissal from Ghana Armed Forces After Galamsey Arrest Operation

Former soldier Daniel Asiedu alleges he was unfairly dismissed from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) following his participation in a 2023 operation that led to the arrest of over 11 suspected Chinese galamsey operators in Obuasi, who were allegedly armed. The group handed the suspects to EOCO in Kumasi. Asiedu claims he and colleagues faced interrogation over bribery allegations (which he denies), prolonged detention in guardrooms, suspension, and eventual dismissal without trial, while others involved remained in service.

He links the outcome to possible political motivations, citing perceived NDC affiliations during the prior NPP administration. Asiedu is seeking justice after what he describes as pressure-filled proceedings. Read the full story here

6. Social Media Erupts Over Thomas Partey Canada Visa Denial, Calling It ‘Disgraceful’

News of Thomas Partey’s denial of entry into Canada has sparked intense social media reactions, with many Ghanaians and football fans labeling the decision “disgraceful” and questioning its impact on the Black Stars’ World Cup campaign. Discussions highlight issues of fairness, presumption of innocence, and inconsistent application of immigration rules to athletes, especially amid ongoing legal matters. Some compare it to treatment of other high-profile players.

While a minority supports host nations’ sovereign rights, the dominant sentiment calls for focus on the team’s performance despite the setback. The episode has fueled broader debates on sports, justice, and international relations. Read the full story here

7. Ghana Loses GH¢6.2 Billion Annually to Poor Waste Management – ISSER Study

A study by the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana reveals that poor waste management and sanitation cost the country over GH¢6.2 billion yearly through related diseases, healthcare costs, lost productivity, and premature deaths. The economic burden extends beyond visible issues like choked drains to broader impacts on public health and growth.

Researchers highlight massive returns on investment: GH¢180 per GH¢1 currently, potentially rising to GH¢556 with scaled-up efforts matching international standards. The report urges a national strategy involving increased funding, private sector participation, circular economy approaches, and public education to turn waste challenges into economic opportunities amid urbanization. Read the full story here

Ghana captain Jordan Ayew has issued a stirring pledge to deliver a performance that will make the nation proud as the Black Stars prepare for their fifth FIFA World Cup appearance, despite being drawn into a challenging Group L.

Speaking at a send-off event before the team departed Alexandria, Virginia, for their base camp in Rhode Island, the Leicester City forward acknowledged the magnitude of the task ahead but expressed unwavering confidence in his squad’s ability to compete.

Ghana will face Panama, England, and Croatia in the group stage — three opponents with strong international pedigrees.

“We have three massive games for us, and we want to make you guys proud; we want to make Ghana proud,” Ayew said. “Obviously, it’s not going to be easy, but with your prayers and support, hopefully, we’ll be successful.”

The Black Stars arrived in Providence, Rhode Island, on Thursday evening, June 11, 2026, for the final phase of their preparations.

According to the Ghana Football Association (GFA), head coach Carlos Queiroz and his squad are expected to resume training on Friday to fine-tune tactics and team cohesion ahead of their opening match.

Ghana is making its fifth appearance in the global showpiece, having previously qualified for the 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022 editions.

The country’s best performance came in 2010 when the Black Stars reached the quarterfinal stage in South Africa, narrowly missing out on a historic semifinal berth after a controversial penalty shootout loss to Uruguay.

The team will open its Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday, June 17, before facing England and Croatia in subsequent matches.

With Ayew at the helm, Ghanaians at home and in the diaspora are hoping the team can replicate — or surpass — the heroics of 2010.