News

news|Yesterday

Dr. Sylvia Ama Adusu Elected as First African Woman ITLOS Judge Amidst National Legal and Security Developments

In a landmark achievement for Ghana’s legal profession and international standing, Dr. Sylvia Ama Adusu, a Chief State Attorney, has been elected as a judge of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). This historic appointment, announced by Ghana’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, distinguishes Dr. Adusu as the first African woman to serve on the tribunal. Her election is seen as a significant milestone for women in leadership and a testament to Ghana's influential role in international maritime law. This achievement highlights the growing influence of Ghanaian legal experts on the global stage. However, this moment of national pride is tempered by the tragic loss of another promising member of the legal fraternity. The family of 26-year-old lawyer Sara Araba Tettey has issued an appeal for privacy following her sudden death. Ms. Tettey, a recent graduate of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), reportedly suffered a fatal cardiac arrest while celebrating Ghana’s victory over Panama in the FIFA World Cup on June 17. Described by her family as vibrant and full of life, her sudden collapse has sparked social media speculation, which her relatives have urged the public to disregard, maintaining that she had no known prior health issues. Meanwhile, on the local security front, authorities and businesses in Accra are being alerted to a reported theft captured on surveillance. CCTV footage from a guest house in the capital recently revealed a woman allegedly stealing money from a reception area. The video shows the suspect engaging a staff member in conversation before taking advantage of a brief moment when the desk was left unattended. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing small businesses and the importance of vigilance in public spaces. Together, these events reflect a week of contrasting emotions for Ghana—ranging from the highest echelons of international judicial success to profound personal loss and community safety concerns. While Dr. Adusu prepares to take her seat on the world stage in Hamburg, the nation mourns a rising star in Ms. Tettey and remains alert to the everyday security issues that impact citizens across the country.

news|Yesterday

Severe Floods Paralyse Central Region as GMet Issues Urgent Thunderstorm Warnings for Southern Ghana

Torrential rainfall has triggered devastating floods across parts of Ghana's Central Region, submerging key communities and disrupting major transportation routes. The downpour has hit Cape Coast and surrounding areas particularly hard, with floodwaters affecting critical institutions such as the Ankaful Communicable Diseases Prison and the Doribabs School Complex. On the N1 Highway, a vital transit corridor, traffic ground to a halt, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded for hours as the infrastructure struggled to cope with the deluge. The human impact of the floods was nearly catastrophic in Moree, where a taxi was swept away by the rising currents. Fortunately, local residents acted swiftly to rescue the occupants from the vehicle before it was lost to the water. This incident has intensified growing concerns among residents regarding the region's vulnerability to seasonal weather. Many are now calling for immediate improvements to drainage systems and the implementation of long-term flood mitigation strategies to protect lives and property from recurring disasters. Compounding these challenges, the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a 24-hour weather forecast warning of continued thunderstorms and heavy rain across southern Ghana. The agency's impact-based forecasting system suggests that the risk of further flooding remains high as the ground remains saturated. In addition to the rain, GMet has warned of mist and fog patches developing in mountainous and forest areas, which are expected to significantly reduce visibility during the early morning hours, creating additional hazards for motorists. As the weather conditions persist, GMet predicts temperature ranges between 21°C and 26°C along the coastal belt, while the northern sector may see temperatures up to 29°C. Local authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant and heed weather alerts to ensure their safety. The current crisis highlights the urgent need for a coordinated response between meteorological services and urban planners to address the infrastructure deficits that leave Ghanaian communities exposed to extreme weather events.

news|Yesterday

Fatal Gunmen Attack at Niger’s Niamey Airport Leaves 35 Dead as Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi Headed for Trial

Tragedy struck Niamey, Niger, as an armed assault on the Diori Hamani International Airport resulted in the deaths of thirty-five people. The attack occurred in the early morning hours, shortly after local residents had concluded their morning prayers. This violent incident has sent shockwaves through the region, highlighting a deteriorating security situation in a nation already grappling with domestic instability and rising threats from armed groups. This latest bloodshed marks the second major attack in Niger within a span of just five months, raising urgent questions regarding the efficacy of security measures at the country's primary international gateway. As a predominantly Muslim nation, the timing of the attack—immediately following religious observances—has added a layer of profound distress for the local community. National authorities are now under intense pressure to bolster protection at critical infrastructure points and stabilize the security climate to prevent further loss of life. In a separate development on the international legal front, Morocco’s national football team captain, Achraf Hakimi, is set to stand trial following rape charges. French prosecutors have confirmed that the case against the Paris Saint-Germain defender will proceed, stemming from an incident reported in early 2023. The allegations were brought forward by a woman, then 24 years old, who accused the star player of assaulting her at his residence in Paris. Hakimi, a celebrated figure who led Morocco to a historic World Cup semi-final appearance, now faces a legal battle that could significantly impact his professional career and public standing. These dual developments—a fatal security failure in Niger and a high-profile criminal case involving one of the continent's most prominent athletes—underscore a period of significant tension and scrutiny across West Africa and the diaspora. While the people of Niamey begin the somber task of mourning the victims of the airport massacre, the sports and legal worlds await the outcomes of the proceedings in Paris. Both events reflect broader, ongoing challenges regarding safety, governance, and accountability within the African context.

news|Yesterday

Bishop Elijah Bazooka Fire Urges Ghanaian Men to Embrace Responsible Fatherhood and Spiritual Leadership

Bishop Elijah Dogli Bazooka Fire, the Founder and leader of Jesus Miracle Temple International, has issued a powerful call to Ghanaian men to prioritize responsible fatherhood. Speaking in observance of Father's Day, the Bishop emphasized that the role of a father is foundational to both family stability and the broader health of society. He urged men to move beyond traditional expectations of mere financial provision, calling instead for a deeper commitment characterized by sacrifice, emotional presence, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of their wives and children. In a series of reflections on the global significance of the celebration, Bishop Bazooka Fire highlighted the critical role fathers play in providing moral and spiritual guidance. He noted that fathers have a unique spiritual responsibility to lead their households in the ways of God and to serve as role models for their children. By prioritizing family welfare and offering consistent emotional support, fathers contribute to the creation of strong, resilient homes. The Bishop's message serves as a timely reminder of the dedication required to navigate the complexities of family life, especially as couples transition into parenthood and face the life-altering changes that come with building a home together. The call for responsibility resonates at a time when personal narratives often highlight the varied challenges of modern marriage. While many celebrate the joy of new life—such as the case of newly married couples welcoming their first children—the Bishop noted that the true test of fatherhood lies in maintaining commitment through all seasons of life. He emphasized that the sacrifices made by a dedicated father are essential for the growth and stability of the next generation, advocating for a culture that appreciates and upholds the vital contributions of men to the domestic sphere. Concluding his address, Bishop Bazooka Fire commended fathers who have remained steadfast and responsible in their duties despite economic and social pressures. He wished all fathers a fulfilling celebration and reiterated that the strength of the nation is intrinsically linked to the strength of its families. His admonition serves as both a challenge and an encouragement for men to embrace the fullness of their roles, ensuring that they leave a positive and lasting legacy for their families and the Ghanaian society at large.

news|Yesterday

Central East Police Arrest 19 for Siren Abuse as Fatal Crashes Highlight Ghana’s Road Safety Crisis

In a concerted effort to restore discipline on Ghana’s highways, the Central East Regional Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) has arrested 19 drivers for various traffic violations. This enforcement drive, which targeted the unauthorized use of sirens and unapproved vehicle modifications, coincides with a series of harrowing road incidents across the country. These include a fatal trailer crash in the North East Region and an LPG tanker accident in Tema, collectively highlighting the persistent challenges of driver indiscipline and deteriorating road infrastructure. During the Central East police operation, officials focused on motorists bypasssing traffic through illegal means. Of the 19 apprehended, three were cited specifically for the abuse of sirens and strip lights, while ten were found using unapproved vehicle lamps. An additional six drivers were arrested for driving on road shoulders. The police confiscated all unauthorized equipment and provided safety education to the offenders, emphasizing that the crackdown is part of an ongoing commitment to enhancing road discipline and preventing avoidable accidents caused by poor visibility or reckless maneuvering. However, the gravity of Ghana’s road safety situation was further underscored by a tragic accident at Kariminga in the North East Region on June 18. A trailer truck transporting Twyford tiles from Takoradi to Burkina Faso crashed after the driver reportedly swerved to avoid a tricycle. While the Ghana National Fire Service successfully rescued three male occupants from the mangled wreckage, a female passenger was found deceased. This incident occurred just hours before an LPG tanker from Côte d’Ivoire overturned on the Tema Harbour Road at 2:00 a.m. on June 19. Although firefighters prevented a potential explosion and no casualties were reported in Tema, the accident caused significant traffic disruptions. These recent events illustrate a dual crisis: the lack of motorist discipline and the hazardous state of national infrastructure. Preliminary investigations into the Tema accident suggest the driver lost control due to deep potholes, prompting local drivers to renew calls for urgent road repairs. As the MTTD continues its clampdown on "siren culture" and illegal lighting, authorities have urged motorists to remain vigilant and adhere strictly to traffic regulations to mitigate the high rate of road traffic accidents currently plaguing the nation.

news|Yesterday

Sekondi-Takoradi NADMO Completes Final Assessment of 88 Hazardous Buildings Slated for Demolition

The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has concluded a comprehensive final assessment of 88 dilapidated buildings within the metropolis. These structures, comprising both residential and commercial properties, have been earmarked for either major renovation or total demolition due to severe structural failures that pose a significant threat to public safety. The assessment marks a critical step in the assembly's efforts to prevent building collapses and protect lives and property in the region. This rigorous evaluation was conducted through a collaborative effort involving the Metro Works Department, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). The inter-agency team identified various degrees of structural decay, including deep-seated cracks, rotting supports, and other vulnerabilities that compromise the integrity of the buildings. According to NADMO officials, the technical findings from this exercise will form the basis for immediate enforcement actions to mitigate potential disasters. Alhaji Kamal Abubakar, the NADMO Metropolitan Director, emphasized that the exercise was strictly a safety intervention rather than a punitive measure. He noted that while official notices have already been served to the affected property owners, the directorate has encountered resistance from some individuals who are reluctant to comply with the safety directives. Abubakar urged all stakeholders and property owners to cooperate with the authorities, stressing that the risks posed by these weak structures outweigh the costs of renovation or relocation. Looking ahead, the Metropolitan Directorate plans to implement the expert recommendations derived from the assessment without delay. For structures deemed beyond repair, total demolition will be supervised to ensure the process does not endanger neighboring residents. This initiative is part of a broader urban safety strategy in Sekondi-Takoradi aimed at enforcing building regulations and ensuring that the city's infrastructure meets modern safety standards, particularly during the rainy season when the risk of structural failure often increases.

news|Yesterday

Ghana Police Arrest Notorious Suspects in Bolgatanga and Tema Robbery Operations

The Ghana Police Service has made significant strides in curbing criminal activity across the country following the arrest of several suspects linked to high-profile robberies in Bolgatanga and Tema. In separate intelligence-led operations conducted on June 16, 2026, law enforcement officers apprehended a notorious masked robber in the Upper East Region and a six-man syndicate responsible for large-scale warehouse thefts in the Greater Accra Region. These operations resulted in the recovery of stolen electronics and significant quantities of agricultural and food supplies, signaling a robust response to recent security concerns. In Bolgatanga, the Upper East Regional Police Command arrested 26-year-old Jeffrey Alentis and his accomplice, Moro Mohammed. The arrests followed a harrowing incident at 4:00 AM in the Zaare community, where Alentis reportedly scaled a fence and entered a woman's home. According to Chief Inspector Abdul-Rahman Sumaila, the suspect used pepper spray to incapacitate the victim before stealing a laptop and a Samsung mobile phone. Following a swift investigation, authorities tracked Alentis to a hideout in Zorbisi, where the stolen items were recovered from Mohammed. Both suspects are currently in custody assisting with further investigations. Simultaneously, the Tema Regional Police Command dismantled a criminal group linked to two major warehouse robberies that occurred over the past month. The first incident, on May 25 in Kpone, involved the theft of 751 bags of organic fertilizer valued at GH¢ 431,825. This was followed by a second raid on June 14 at Mummy’s Recipe Warehouse in Tema Community One, where approximately 2,000 bags of Aaba Rice and other food products were stolen. Following the arrest of six suspects, police successfully recovered 717 bags of rice and 600 bags of the stolen fertilizer. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and have urged business owners to bolster their internal security measures to deter future criminal activity. While the primary suspects in both the Bolgatanga and Tema cases are in custody, police are continuing their efforts to apprehend additional accomplices who remain at large. The success of these operations highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and the vital importance of community cooperation in the ongoing fight against crime.

news|Yesterday

Ashanti Police Neutralize Major Car-Snatching Syndicate as Accra Court Remands Tricycle Thief in Crackdown on Vehicle Crimes

The Ashanti South Regional Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious armed robbery syndicate linked to a wave of car-snatching incidents across the region. During a high-stakes two-day operation on June 16 and 17, 2026, police arrested the gang's suspected mastermind, William Opoku, widely known as "Father Blessing." The operation, which targeted hideouts in Ahwiaa near Kumasi, turned violent when accomplices engaged officers in a gun battle, resulting in the deaths of two unidentified suspects. This crackdown marks a significant victory for law enforcement in their ongoing efforts to secure the Ashanti Region against organized vehicle theft rings. Under interrogation, Opoku admitted to leading numerous robberies in areas including Anwiankwanta and Ahwia. He confessed to the theft of several vehicles, specifically targeting Toyota Corollas, and assisted investigators in recovering a stolen car from a local workshop. Beyond vehicle theft, the suspect has been linked to a violent attack on a police officer, during which weapons were allegedly stolen. The Ashanti South Regional Police have emphasized that this operation is part of a broader intelligence-led strategy to root out criminal elements, and they continue to pursue remaining members of the syndicate while working to recover additional stolen property. In a separate development in the Greater Accra Region, judicial authorities are addressing similar crimes involving smaller transport vehicles. An Accra Circuit Court has remanded Johnson Dickson Amasabga, a tricycle rider, for the alleged theft of a vehicle valued at GHC 33,000. The case involves a "work and pay" agreement with the complainant, Samuel Kennedy, where Amasabga was expected to pay a total of GHC 62,000 over two years. However, after an initial payment of GHC 7,878, Amasabga went into hiding and eventually admitted to selling the tricycle. Despite being granted initial bail, he failed to report to authorities as required and was later recaptured while operating a different tricycle. These dual enforcement actions highlight a nationwide push by Ghanaian police and the judiciary to protect property owners and dismantle the networks that facilitate the sale of stolen vehicles. While the Ashanti operation involved lethal force to counter armed resistance, the Accra court case underscores the legal consequences for those who violate hire-purchase or trust agreements. Police have issued a stern warning to criminal groups to cease their operations, reiterating that public safety remains the highest priority for the security services as they intensify patrols and investigations across the country.

news|Yesterday

Tamale Circuit Court Grants Bail to Two Nurses Over Disappearance of Newborn at Salaga Government Hospital

The Tamale Circuit Court has granted bail to two nurses linked to the mysterious disappearance of a newborn baby at the Salaga Government Hospital. The accused, who face charges of conspiracy and abduction, were each granted bail in the sum of GH¢150,000 with two sureties. The case has triggered significant public outcry and heightened concerns regarding the safety of infants within public health facilities in the Savannah Region. The disappearance of the infant has left the mother severely traumatized and the local community in Salaga demanding answers. According to hospital officials, the facility is fully cooperating with the Ghana Police Service as investigations continue into how the child could vanish from a government-run institution. While the hospital administrator has pledged transparency, no information regarding the baby's current whereabouts has been confirmed, leaving the family in a state of profound distress. Legal proceedings are set to continue as the court has scheduled the next appearance for July 9, 2026. This timeline suggests a protracted legal battle as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the alleged conspiracy. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the need for improved security protocols in maternity wards across the country, as residents and human rights advocates continue to call for justice for the affected family.

news|17th June

Ghana Secures €106m Water Grant as Public Services Address Safety and Infrastructure Challenges

The Government of Ghana has successfully secured a €106 million grant from the European Union to implement the Tamale and Damongo water supply projects. This significant infrastructure investment is designed to provide a long-term solution to the chronic water shortages that have impacted the Northern and Savannah Regions. According to project details, once the facilities are operational, they will supply approximately 135,000 cubic meters of potable water daily. Stakeholder consultations, environmental impact assessments, and compensation processes are currently underway to ensure the project progresses smoothly and addresses the needs of the affected communities. Alongside these infrastructure advancements, public utility and emergency services are issuing critical warnings to improve operational efficiency. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reported that while there was a 17.8% decline in prank calls during the first quarter of 2026, the service still handles a staggering 1,213 fraudulent calls every day. GNFS officials emphasized that such behavior jeopardizes lives by blocking communication lines for genuine emergencies. Simultaneously, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced planned maintenance power interruptions on June 18, affecting the Central and Accra East Regions, including Tseaddo and West Trassaco, as part of routine grid maintenance to improve service reliability. In the transport sector, the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) in the Ahafo Region is cracking down on the illegal use of tricycles, popularly known as 'pragia', on major highways. Superintendent Ekow Gaisie expressed grave concerns that these tricycles, which are frequently used for commercial purposes, pose a severe threat to road safety when operated on high-speed routes meant for larger vehicles. In response, local authorities led by Benjamin Assabil Donkor plan to engage with transport unions and increase police checkpoints to enforce traffic regulations and prevent avoidable accidents. Collectively, these updates highlight a period of significant transition in Ghana's public service and infrastructure landscape. As the nation invests millions in vital resources like water, the success of these initiatives relies on the public's adherence to safety and civic regulations. Whether it is following traffic laws on highways or ensuring emergency lines remain clear for those in need, the synergy between government investment and community responsibility remains essential for national development and the safety of all citizens.

news|17th June

Fatal Accidents at Ako Adjei Interchange and Millennium City Spark Urgent Calls for Enhanced Public Safety

Ghanaian authorities and local leaders are sounding the alarm on public safety following two separate fatal incidents in Accra and Millennium City. On June 17, 2026, a motorist died in a collision at the busy Ako Adjei Interchange, while a 35-year-old carpenter was electrocuted at a construction site. Both tragedies have highlighted the lethal consequences of inadequate safety precautions on the road and at the workplace, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of existing regulations to prevent avoidable loss of life. The accident at the Ako Adjei Interchange involved a collision between a Zedrive saloon car and a KIA Rhino truck. Preliminary reports indicate that the saloon car crashed into a faulty stationary truck that had been left on the road. The driver of the saloon car became trapped in the wreckage and was confirmed dead at the scene after being extricated by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). Following the incident, the GNFS extended condolences to the bereaved family and issued a stern warning to all motorists to use visible warning devices, such as reflective triangles, whenever a vehicle breaks down to alert oncoming traffic. In a similarly tragic event at the One Leg area of Millennium City, a carpenter named Michael lost his life while working on a multi-story building. The 35-year-old was reportedly receiving timber from colleagues on the ground when he inadvertently touched a high-voltage power cable running near the structure. The resulting electrocution caused him to fall onto a poly tank located below, leading to instant death. This incident has sparked significant concern among local leaders, who are now calling for more rigorous safety oversight regarding construction projects located in close proximity to high-voltage lines to protect workers. These two deaths underscore a persistent challenge in maintaining public safety standards across different sectors in Ghana. While the GNFS continues to emphasize road safety and the proper marking of broken-down vehicles, the tragedy in Millennium City points to a need for better coordination between utility providers and the construction industry. As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, these incidents serve as a critical reminder for individuals and businesses to prioritize safety protocols and for regulatory bodies to ensure that safety laws are actively enforced on the ground.

news|17th June

Vietnamese Authorities Rescue 400 Stolen Cats and Arrest Nine in Feline Theft Ring Crackdown

Police in Vietnam have successfully dismantled a major feline theft ring, rescuing more than 400 live cats intended for slaughter. The coordinated operation, which took place across Tay Ninh Province and Ho Chi Minh City, led to the arrest of nine individuals suspected of operating a criminal network that trapped and sold stolen pets for meat. During the raids, authorities also discovered 80 dead cats, highlighting the grim reality of an illegal trade that has sparked significant public outcry and renewed calls for stricter animal welfare protections in the country. The investigation was launched following a sharp rise in reports of pet thefts within the region. According to the suspects, who have since admitted to their involvement, the syndicate had been actively trapping and stealing cats for approximately three years. These animals were typically taken from residential areas and sold to traders who supplied the commercial cat meat market. While the consumption of dog and cat meat remains legal in Vietnam, vendors are strictly required by law to possess valid permits proving the animals' origins. This criminal group bypassed these regulations through systematic theft, causing immense distress to pet owners and violating existing animal health and safety protocols. Since the rescue, welfare groups including Humane World for Animals have been providing care for the survivors. Approximately 40 of the recovered cats have already been reunited with their original owners, though officials noted with regret that several animals succumbed to the poor conditions they were subjected to during their captivity. The scale of this operation reflects a broader national issue; estimates suggest that roughly one million cats and five million dogs are captured annually for the meat trade across Vietnam, often through illicit means that target domestic pets. This high-profile rescue comes at a time of shifting public perception regarding animal rights in Southeast Asia. While the meat trade is rooted in some traditional practices, there is a visible and growing movement—particularly among the younger Vietnamese generation—to ban the consumption of cat and dog meat entirely. As police continue their investigation and encourage residents to report missing pets, the case has become a focal point for advocates pushing for legislative reforms that would provide greater protection for domestic animals and impose harsher penalties for those involved in pet theft.

news|17th June

Tesano and Ashaiman Law Enforcement Secure Arraignments for Murder and Robbery Suspects Following Recent Crime Wave

In a significant week for law enforcement in the Greater Accra and Tema regions, several suspects have been brought before the courts to face charges ranging from murder to violent robbery and the possession of stolen goods. These developments, spanning from Tesano to Ashaiman, highlight a concerted effort by the Ghana Police Service and the judiciary to address criminal activities through both reactive arrests and proactive patrols. The cases involve at least six individuals whose alleged crimes have impacted local residents and business owners, drawing attention to the use of technology and community intervention in modern policing. At the Adabraka District Court, two men, Mawuli Wordy and William Quaye, have been remanded into custody following the alleged murder of an unidentified man in Tesano. The incident, which dates back to April 10, 2026, was brought to light through critical CCTV footage that captured the deceased entering the suspects' residence. According to investigators, the victim was allegedly assaulted within the property before his body was abandoned by the roadside. Following their arrest on June 10, 2026, the accused now face charges of conspiracy to commit murder and murder. They are scheduled to reappear in court on June 30, 2026, as police continue their efforts to identify the deceased and conclude the investigation. Simultaneously, the Ashaiman Circuit Court has arraigned 18-year-old Mohammed Saad and 19-year-old Aaron Tetteh for a violent robbery and assault that occurred at Pesewa Plaza on June 13, 2026. The duo allegedly targeted a 29-year-old trader, Annette Bless Mantebea, during which Saad reportedly assaulted the victim, causing injuries to her front teeth. While attempting to steal her handbag, Saad successfully made off with a Tecno Pop 8 mobile phone valued at GH‵1,000, while Tetteh stood by to facilitate a quick escape. The swift intervention of local citizens led to the suspects' apprehension, and the police have since secured confessions from both individuals, with the court retaining the stolen items as evidence. In a separate operational success, the Ashaiman District Police Command, led by Chief Inspector Prosper K. Amponsah, arrested John Atsu and Jonathan Puplampu during a night patrol at the Ashaiman Roundabout on June 16, 2026. At approximately 2:55 a.m., the suspects were found in possession of various suspected stolen vehicle components, including clutch boosters, fuel injectors, mounting top lights, and headlights. Unable to provide any documentation for the parts, the suspects were taken into custody. These arrests underscore the importance of specialized patrols in curbing the trade of stolen auto parts, as investigators work to uncover a potential network of accomplices linked to these thefts. Together, these cases represent a broad push for justice across the region's judicial districts.

news|17th June

Ghana Intensifies Flood Mitigation as NADMO and Zoomlion Partner for Nationwide Drainage Desilting

As the rainy season peaks across Ghana, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has joined forces with private partners and local assemblies to ramp up flood prevention operations nationwide. These coordinated efforts aim to mitigate the recurring threats to lives and economic stability caused by heavy seasonal downpours. From large-scale dredging in the capital to urgent community appeals for infrastructure in the Ashanti and Bono regions, authorities are facing mounting pressure to address the country's drainage vulnerabilities. In the Greater Accra Region, a major collaboration between Zoomlion Ghana Limited, NADMO, and Dredge Masters Gh. Ltd commenced on June 17, focusing on high-risk areas including Teshie-Nungua and Achimota. This initiative prioritizes the desilting of choked drains and the extensive dredging of the Dakobi River to significantly enhance its stormwater capacity. Project officials have emphasized that these engineering efforts must be matched by public cooperation, particularly regarding responsible waste disposal, to prevent the immediate re-clogging of vital water channels after they are cleared. The urgency for better infrastructure is echoed in the Ashanti Region, where residents and business owners along the Santasi-Ahenema Kokoben road are making a desperate appeal for a permanent storm drainage system. Following recent rains that caused significant property damage, Michael Adubofour, CEO of Midland Industries, highlighted the historical danger of the area, citing past fatalities and loss of livelihood. In response, District Chief Executive Mrs. Grace Agyemang Asamoah has committed to engaging national authorities for a lasting construction intervention while urging residents to exercise extreme caution during the current weather window. Simultaneously, in the Wenchi Municipality of the Bono Region, NADMO Zonal Officer Yahaya Baro has issued a stern warning to the Municipal Assembly and traditional authorities. Following an inspection of flood-prone zones, Mr. Baro identified the deteriorating state of local residences and the dangerous trend of building on waterways. He called for an immediate halt to land allocation in high-risk areas, stressing that improved drainage infrastructure and strict adherence to urban planning regulations are non-negotiable if the municipality is to avoid future disasters and protect the property of its citizens.

news|17th June

Minister Armah-Kofi Buah Commissions Upgraded Seismic Network as Ghana Enhances National Disaster Monitoring

Ghana has significantly bolstered its disaster detection and response framework following the launch of an upgraded National Seismic Monitoring Network and the issuance of critical weather alerts. On June 16, 2026, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, officially commissioned the enhanced network under the auspices of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA). This milestone initiative introduces cutting-edge technology for real-time seismic data transmission across the country, marking a pivotal shift in how Ghana identifies and manages earthquake risks. The upgrade involved the modernization of equipment at 20 of the nation's 21 seismic stations, ensuring a continuous stream of real-time data to central monitoring hubs. Minister Buah emphasized that the enhancement was necessitated by the proximity of critical national infrastructure to active fault systems. Dr. Prosper Akaba, the Director-General of the GGSA, noted that this technological leap allows for more accurate hazard assessments and faster response times. To complement these technical improvements, the government has announced stringent policy interventions, including mandatory seismic assessments for all new building permits and rigorous enforcement of the Ghana Building Code to safeguard lives and property from potential tremors. Alongside these seismic advancements, the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) continues to play a vital role in national safety through its real-time weather surveillance. In a recent urgent bulletin, GMet issued a thunderstorm alert for coastal and northern regions, warning of heavy rains and gusty winds. Using data from southeastern and northeastern borders, the agency predicted that rain-bearing clouds would sweep across the Volta, Greater Accra, and Eastern regions before moving toward the Upper East and Northeast. Residents were classified as facing moderate weather severity and were urged to avoid outdoor activities and seek updates via official channels. These combined efforts by the GGSA and GMet underscore a comprehensive national strategy to mitigate the impact of natural disasters. By integrating sophisticated earthquake monitoring with proactive meteorological warnings, the Ghanaian government aims to create a more resilient environment for both urban development and rural safety. Moving forward, the focus remains on the strict application of building regulations and the continuous improvement of data-driven early warning systems to ensure the public is well-protected against the unpredictable forces of nature.