Ghana News
Top Ghana Headlines: December 18, 2025 – Mahama Warns Ministers, IMF Commends Ghana, Sam Jonah Laments…Plus More
Ghana’s news cycle today, December 18, 2025, reflects a country balancing reform, recognition, and resistance.
From high-level political warnings and international economic assessments to grassroots concerns over natural resources, justice, and social welfare, the stories shaping the national conversation reveal both progress and areas of pressure. Stay informed!
1. Mahama Warns Ministers: “Deliver the First Scandal and You’re on Your Own”
NDC General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey has confirmed President John Mahama’s stern warning to cabinet ministers: any involvement in public scandal will not be covered up by the presidency or the party or government. The remark reflects the Mahama administration’s focus on integrity and accountability amid heightened scrutiny of governance performance.
2. Three GCTU Scholars Named Among World’s Top Scientists
Three academics from Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) have been ranked among the world’s top 2% of scientists in global research impact metrics. The recognition highlights Ghana’s growing presence in the international science and technology communities.
3. IMF Says Ghana’s Programme Performance ‘Broadly Satisfactory’
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has completed its review of Ghana’s economic programme under the Extended Credit Facility, concluding that performance has been “broadly satisfactory.” While this signals fiscal discipline and reform momentum, observers note that citizen confidence remains uneven.
4. Bank of Ghana Data Shows Recovery on Paper, Skepticism on the Ground
Despite macroeconomic improvements reflected in official statistics, Bank of Ghana data and public opinion suggest many Ghanaians remain doubtful that real living conditions have improved. This gap between data and lived experience is fueling calls for policies that translate growth into tangible daily benefits.
5. Mankessim Omanhen Declares Lithium Lands “Artificial Disaster Zones”
The Mankessim Omanhen has criticized government and corporate handling of lithium exploration agreements, calling designated lithium areas “artificial disaster zones.” He says poorly managed contracts risk social and environmental harm. The remarks echo community concerns about resource governance and local impact.
6. Sam Jonah Alleges Takeover of His Nigerian Businesses
Mining executive and business mogul Sam Jonah has cried foul over what he alleges is an attempted takeover of his Nigerian business interests by external parties. Jonah claims the actions undermine business autonomy and reflect deeper challenges facing Ghanaian investors operating regionally. His comments have drawn attention to cross-border corporate governance and investor protection.
7. Ghanaian Mother with 20 Children Draws National Attention
A 42-year-old Ghanaian mother with 20 children has become a national story, sparking public discourse on family planning, economic strain, social support structures, and health education. The human-interest piece has prompted calls for enhanced community services and awareness campaigns.
8. Debate Over Abu Trica Sparks Political and Legal Reactions
Comments from the Ashanti Regional NPP Communications Director defending social media figure Abu Trica have triggered debate after the young man’s recent arrest on charges alleged to involve online fraud. While one political figure framed his actions as lawful entrepreneurship, others argue for accountability and law enforcement cooperation. The situation has fueled broader discussion on digital crime, national reputation, and legal jurisdiction.
Still on Abu Trica, following his arrest by a team of local and foreign law enforcement authorities, segments of Ghana’s youth have criticized the government’s involvement or cooperation, questioning whether his detention was justified. Young commentators argue for balancing law enforcement with national dignity, underscoring generational divides on justice and governance.
9. Nayiri Rejects Otumfuo’s Bawku Mediation Report
The Overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area, the Nayiri, has formally rejected the final Bawku mediation report submitted by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to President John Dramani Mahama, describing it as procedurally flawed and legally unsustainable.
In a public statement, the Nayiri said the recommendations do not reflect the outcome of engagements held with his delegation during the mediation process and insisted that talks between the parties had ended in a deadlock, not consensus. He also rejected calls for the recall of the rival claimant to the Bawku skin, maintaining that the Mamprugu position on the chieftaincy dispute remains unchanged.
These are the front pages of some of Ghana’s top newspapers







Ghana News
541 Last-Minute Appointments by Akufo-Addo Revoked, Agradaa Released and Other Trending Topics in Ghana (March 3, 2026)
Welcome to our rolling news update from Ghana, delivering timely summaries of breaking news. Return often as we continue to add the latest stories.
541 Last-Minute Appointments Under Akufo-Addo Govt Revoked to Uphold Due Process – Kwakye Ofosu

The Ghanaian government has revoked 541 last-minute political and public-sector appointments made during the final weeks of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State at the Presidency, announced the decision on March 3, 2026, stating the move was necessary to “uphold due process, transparency, and the rule of law.” The affected positions spanned various ministries, agencies, boards, and state-owned enterprises. Kwakye Ofosu explained that the revocations were not politically motivated but aimed at ensuring appointments complied with established procedures and national interest. Affected individuals have been notified, and the government is now proceeding with fresh recruitment or reassignments where necessary.
Read the full story here
Prayer and Faith Sustained Me – Nana Agradaa Reflects After Leaving Prison
Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, has spoken publicly for the first time since her release from prison on March 3, 2026, crediting “prayer and faith” for sustaining her through her 12-month sentence. Speaking to journalists shortly after walking free, she described the period as a “time of deep reflection and spiritual growth,” thanking God, her family, supporters, and legal team for standing by her. Agradaa, convicted in July 2025 for charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretence over a money-doubling scheme, had her original 15-year term reduced by the Amasaman High Court in February 2026. She expressed gratitude for the remission granted for good conduct and vowed to focus on positive ministry work moving forward.
Read the full story here
Teacher, Farmer Die in Shocking Incidents in Assin Fosu
Two separate but tragic incidents in Assin Fosu, Central Region, claimed the lives of a teacher and a farmer over the weekend of March 1–2, 2026. A 38-year-old teacher at Assin Fosu Methodist Basic School died after a motorbike accident on the Assin Fosu–Breman Asikuma road. Witnesses say he lost control of his motorcycle and collided with a stationary vehicle. Separately, a 52-year-old farmer was electrocuted while attempting to repair a faulty electrical connection on his farm. Both bodies were conveyed to the morgue at Assin Fosu Government Hospital. Police have commenced investigations into both cases, urging caution on roads and around electrical installations.
Read the full story here
11 Foreigners Face Trial Over Counterfeit Dollar Operation in Ga South
Eleven foreign nationals have been arrested and are facing trial in the Ga South District Court for their alleged involvement in a large-scale counterfeit US dollar operation. Police in Accra, acting on intelligence, raided a hideout in Weija on March 2, 2026, recovering fake $100 bills with a street value of over GH¢2 million, printing equipment, and other paraphernalia. The suspects—nationals of Nigeria, Mali, and Niger—are charged with possession of counterfeit currency, conspiracy to commit crime, and money laundering. The case has been adjourned to March 10, 2026, for further hearing. Authorities say the operation targeted unsuspecting businesses and individuals in the Greater Accra Region.
Read the full story here
Nana Agradaa Released from Prison After Sentence Reduction

Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa or Mama Pat, was released from prison on March 3, 2026, after serving two-thirds of her revised 12-month sentence under Ghana’s standard remission rules for good conduct. Originally sentenced on July 3, 2025, to 15 years with hard labour for charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretence related to a money-doubling scheme promoted at her Heaven Way Champion International Ministry, the Amasaman High Court on February 5, 2026, upheld the conviction but reduced the term to 12 months plus a GH¢2,400 fine (200 penalty units). Her lawyer confirmed the remission applied uniformly. The controversial media personality and former traditional priestess turned evangelist attracted significant public attention throughout the case.
Read the full story here
Barker-Vormawor Shares Alleged Recording of Attempted Bribe by Kan Dapaah, Citing Ofori-Atta
Oliver Barker-Vormawor has released what he claims is an audio recording of a conversation involving former National Security Minister Albert Kan Dapaah, allegedly offering a GH¢1 million bribe to halt FixTheCountry activism, with references to former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. In a March 3, 2026, social media post, Barker-Vormawor said the recording was part of evidence he intended to present in his defamation case but was unable to due to procedural rulings. He stated the clip was made public “in the interest of transparency” and challenged Kan Dapaah to deny its authenticity. The release comes days after the High Court awarded Kan Dapaah GH¢5 million in damages plus costs for defamation. Police and authorities have not yet commented on the recording’s veracity or implications.
Read the full story here
March 6 Declared Statutory Public Holiday for Independence Day
The Ministry of Interior has officially declared Wednesday, March 6, 2026, a statutory public holiday to commemorate Ghana’s 69th Independence Day. In a notice issued March 2, 2026, the ministry reminded the public that all public offices, educational institutions, and selected private entities will be closed in observance of the day. President John Dramani Mahama is expected to lead national celebrations, with events including the national parade, wreath-laying at the Black Star Square, and addresses reflecting on Ghana’s journey since independence. Citizens are encouraged to observe the holiday with patriotism and unity.
Read the full story here
Build a War Chest: Theo Acheampong Makes Case for Leveraging Gold to Boost Reserves
Economist and policy analyst Dr. Theo Acheampong has advocated for Ghana to aggressively leverage its gold reserves to build a stronger economic “war chest” capable of cushioning against external shocks. In a March 2, 2026, opinion piece, he argued that the government should allocate a larger portion of gold production to strategic reserves rather than immediate export, drawing lessons from countries like Singapore and Norway that use commodity wealth for stabilization funds. He noted that Ghana’s current gold-backed reserves strategy is promising but underutilized, and scaling it could provide fiscal buffers against oil price volatility, currency depreciation, and global crises. The call aligns with ongoing discussions on Ghana’s gold-for-oil barter and reserve-building policies.
Read the full story here
Are We Tying Down Growth? Finance Professor Flags Concerns on Gold Reserve Policy
A finance professor has raised concerns that Ghana’s emerging policy of tying a portion of gold production to domestic reserves and local currency support could inadvertently constrain economic growth if not carefully calibrated. In a March 2, 2026, interview on JoyNews, the academic, Prof William Kwasi Preprah, warned that over-allocating gold to reserves instead of export earnings might reduce foreign exchange inflows, limit liquidity for private sector investment, and slow industrial expansion. While acknowledging the benefits of building buffers against currency volatility and external shocks, he urged a balanced approach with clear targets, transparency, and independent oversight to avoid stifling growth in manufacturing, infrastructure, and job creation.
Read the full story here
Government to Issue Long-Dated Domestic Bonds Following Expiration of DDEP Restrictions – Deputy Finance Minister
Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Stephen Amoah has confirmed that the government plans to issue long-dated domestic bonds in the coming months now that restrictions from the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) have expired. Speaking on March 2, 2026, he explained that the move will help lengthen the maturity profile of Ghana’s domestic debt, reduce rollover risks, and support fiscal consolidation. The issuance will target institutional investors, pension funds, and the public, with competitive yields expected. This follows successful completion of DDEP phases and aims to restore investor confidence while funding key development priorities.
Read the full story here
Ayawaso East Polls Open as Observer Koku Anyidoho Applauds Voting Arrangements
Voting has commenced smoothly in the Ayawaso East by-election today, March 3, 2026, with long queues reported at polling stations in the Greater Accra constituency. Domestic and international observers have commended the Electoral Commission for well-organized arrangements, including adequate security, timely opening of polls, and provision of materials. Anyidoho noted: “The process has been peaceful and transparent so far.” The by-election follows the death of the incumbent MP and is being contested by candidates from major parties. Results are expected later in the day or early next week.
Read the full story here
Koforidua High Court Convicts Woman for Manslaughter Over Acid Attack on Boyfriend
A Koforidua High Court has convicted a woman for manslaughter in connection with an acid attack on her boyfriend that led to his death. The incident occurred when the accused allegedly poured acid on the victim during a domestic dispute. The court, after trial, found her guilty of manslaughter rather than murder, citing lack of premeditation. Sentencing details were not immediately available, but the case highlights ongoing concerns about gender-based violence and acid attacks in Ghana. The victim suffered severe burns and complications leading to death.
Read the full story here
Ghana News
Newspaper Headlines Today: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Stay informed with today’s front pages of Ghanaian newspapers, all in one place.













Ghana News
UK Black Stars Launched to Honor Influential British-Ghanaians as Ghana Turns 69
London / Accra – March 2, 2026 – As Ghana marks its 69th Independence Day, the UK’s All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Ghana has launched the “UK Black Stars” initiative—a new recognition program honoring the most impactful and influential British-Ghanaians shaping life across Britain.
In a video message shared on social media and parliamentary channels, the APPG Chair, Bell Ribeiro-Addy, declared:
“Ghana turns 69 and here in the United Kingdom people of Ghanaian heritage aren’t just celebrating, we’re building.”
The campaign highlights the dual identity and excellence of the British-Ghanaian community, from boardrooms and courtrooms to classrooms, hospitals, labs, and creative industries.
The launch spotlights high-profile figures already making waves, including:
- Jason Arday (University of Cambridge academic)
- Afua Hirsch (journalist, author, broadcaster)
- June Sarpong (media executive)
- Adjoa Andoh (Bridgerton actress)
- Fuse ODG, Raye, and Stormzy (music artists)
- Lord Paul Boateng (one of the first Black MPs in Britain)
- Afua Kyei (Bank of England)
- Barbara Mills KC (Bar Council)
- Michelle Agyemang (footballer)
The APPG stated that these are just the beginning. “Excellence is everywhere,” the statement continued, calling for nominations of doctors, entrepreneurs, artists, young leaders, and community changemakers who embody British-Ghanaian pride and contribution.
Nominations are now open via ukblackstars.com. The initiative aims to amplify visibility, celebrate dual heritage, and demonstrate the positive impact of the diaspora on UK society while reinforcing ties with Ghana.
The launch coincides with Ghana’s 69th Independence Day celebrations worldwide and reflects growing recognition of diaspora contributions to both host nations and the homeland.
The APPG for Ghana continues to advocate for stronger bilateral ties, trade, education, and cultural exchange between the UK and Ghana.
-
News8 hours agoGhana Gears Up for Vibrant 69th Independence Day Celebrations: Parades, Plays, Poetry, and Heritage in Focus
-
Ghana News1 day agoCourt Slaps Barker-Vormawor with GH₵5m for Defaming Kan Dapaah and Other Trending Topics in Ghana (March 2, 2026)
-
Ghana News9 hours agoNewspaper Headlines Today: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
-
Tourism6 hours agoEmirates Resumes Limited Flights from Dubai as Middle East Airspace Slowly Reopens Amid Ongoing Conflict
-
From the Diaspora1 day agoGhanaians and Other Africans in UAE Flood Social Media with Videos as Iranian Missile Strikes Hit Dubai
-
Ghana News9 hours ago541 Last-Minute Appointments by Akufo-Addo Revoked, Agradaa Released and Other Trending Topics in Ghana (March 3, 2026)
-
Commentary6 hours agoAt a glance: US‑Israel attack on Iran
-
Ghana News1 day agoNewspaper Headlines Today: Monday, March 2, 2026
