Africa News from a Ghanaian Lens

Africa news covered from a Ghanaian lens: regional politics, economies, and the events shaping the continent. Curated from leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

Around 51 percent of Togos people practise Voodoo -- more than Christianity and Islam combined. By Emile KOUTON (AFP/File)
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West Africa Showcases Spiritual and Cultural Resilience Through Historic Festivals and Global Gatherings

West Africa is currently witnessing a powerful convergence of tradition and faith, as major cultural festivals and religious milestones take center stage in Ghana and Togo. In Cape Coast, the ancient city is pulsating with color and sound as it celebrates the 2026 Oguaa Fetu Afahye festival. Under the theme ‘Heritage, Resilience and Prosperity,’ the event has drawn thousands of revelers, artisans, and traders, creating a vibrant kaleidoscope of commerce and custom. The festival, which blends sacred traditional rites with modern entertainment, is highlighted by a grand durbar led by the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, signaling a period of deep cultural reflection and economic revitalization for the region. Parallel to these local traditions, Ghana is preparing to host a landmark religious event: the 10th Triennial Congress of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship. Scheduled for October 2026 in Accra, this marks the first time the global body will meet in Ghana since its formation 115 years ago. Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Ghana, has officially launched the preparations, expecting to welcome over 10,000 church leaders from around the world. Major activities are set to take place at Independence Square and the Accra Sports Stadium, featuring daytime sessions and evening revival rallies aimed at enhancing the global visibility and mission of the denomination. Across the border in Togo, the spiritual landscape is equally active with the 363rd Epe-Ekpe festival of the Guin people. A central feature of this ancestral celebration at Glidji-Kpodji Square is the unveiling of the sacred Voodoo stone. This year, the revelation of a white stone has been interpreted by Voodoo priests and priestesses as a divine omen of peace and prosperity for the coming year. These rituals, which date back to 1663, remain a cornerstone of Togolese identity, with more than half of the population participating in Voodoo traditions that celebrate the profound connection between nature and spirituality. Collectively, these events underscore the significant role that heritage and organized religion play in the socio-economic fabric of West Africa. From the fully booked hotels in Cape Coast to the trade fairs and global religious tourism in Accra, these gatherings do more than preserve identity; they stimulate local economies and foster international partnerships. As these festivals and congresses move forward, they continue to project a narrative of a region that is both deeply rooted in its ancestral past and actively shaping its future on the global stage.

Ghana evacuates 41 more citizens from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks
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Ghana Completes Evacuation of 1,600 Citizens from South Africa Following Xenophobic Attacks

The Ghanaian government has officially concluded its four-month emergency evacuation exercise for citizens fleeing xenophobic violence in South Africa. The operation reached its finale on September 4, 2026, with the arrival of the last batch of 41 returnees at Kotoka International Airport. Since the initiative began in May 2026, approximately 1,600 Ghanaians have been safely repatriated, though records indicate that nearly 1,900 individuals had initially registered for the government-sponsored return program. This large-scale effort was prompted by rising tensions and targeted attacks against foreign nationals in various South African provinces. While the mission successfully brought hundreds of citizens home, it was also marked by tragedy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the remains of two Ghanaians killed during the xenophobic attacks were repatriated alongside the living. Additionally, one returnee reportedly passed away shortly after arriving in Ghana, bringing the total death toll associated with the crisis and evacuation exercise to three. Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa expressed his gratitude to President John Mahama for his swift leadership and commitment to the safety of Ghanaians abroad throughout the duration of the emergency. As the formal evacuation ends, the government’s focus has shifted toward the reintegration of the returnees into Ghanaian society. Government officials have assured the arrivals of sustained support, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs actively collaborating with other agencies to identify employment opportunities suited to the skills the returnees acquired while living abroad. Returnees have been encouraged to view their return as a new chapter and to contribute their diverse expertise to national development efforts as they begin the process of rebuilding their lives. In the interest of transparency, Minister Ablakwa announced that the government would provide a comprehensive public accounting of the expenses incurred during the evacuation process. The conclusion of this operation marks a significant diplomatic and logistical milestone for the Mahama administration, highlighting the complexities of protecting citizens in volatile international environments. Moving forward, the government intends to monitor the situation in South Africa while prioritizing the long-term welfare and stability of those who have returned.

Minister Armah-Kofi Buah Signals Progress in Galamsey Crackdown Amid Armed Clashes and Spiritual Warnings
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Minister Armah-Kofi Buah Signals Progress in Galamsey Crackdown Amid Armed Clashes and Spiritual Warnings

Ghana’s intensified crackdown on illegal mining, known as "galamsey," has reached a critical juncture as government officials report significant operational milestones while security forces encounter violent resistance. Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, recently declared that the country is "turning the corner" in its efforts to protect vital water bodies. Citing a year of sustained operations along the Ankobra River, Buah highlighted a 16-kilometre patrol that successfully cleared thousands of illegal mining machines. This progress, supported by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and Navy Special Forces, marks a significant step in the administration's environmental restoration agenda. However, the fight on the ground remains volatile. In the Asenanyo Forest Reserve, a joint team of police and Forestry Commission officials recently arrested 16 armed suspects following a fierce confrontation. The suspects, who were reportedly equipped with pump-action guns, machetes, and talismans, had initially overpowered a smaller rapid response team to free detained colleagues. The subsequent operation on September 3 led to their capture, though one police officer sustained injuries. Forestry officials are currently investigating claims that the group was authorized to conduct reclamation activities, specifically questioning the role of an individual identified as Richmond Osei. Beyond the physical and legal battles, the galamsey crisis has drawn sharp warnings from Ghana’s traditional and spiritual leaders. Priest Nana Kwaku Bonsam has attributed recent fatalities at illegal mining sites to spiritual retribution for the pollution of sacred water bodies. During a television appearance, Bonsam emphasized that while miners may believe they have obtained spiritual permission for gold extraction, the act of poisoning rivers with chemicals invokes the wrath of traditional forces. He cautioned that the pursuit of gold at the expense of clean water is a self-defeating endeavor, warning that miners will ultimately find themselves wealthy but "thirsty" as their life-sustaining resources vanish. These developments underscore the multi-faceted challenge facing the government as it navigates the economic, environmental, and social dimensions of illegal mining. While Minister Buah stresses the need for continued enforcement and expanded patrols to protect river health, the armed resistance in forest reserves illustrates the lengths to which illegal operators will go to protect their interests. As the suspects from the Asenanyo clash face investigation at the Ashanti Regional Police Headquarters, the administration of President John Mahama continues to face pressure to sustain its momentum against galamsey while addressing the deep-seated cultural and economic drivers of the practice.

How Asantehene was welcomed back to Kumasi after a 10-day working visit to US and grand Akwasidae in Maryland
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Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Receives Grand Welcome in Kumasi Following 10-Day United States Working Visit

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, arrived at the Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi on October 5, 2023, to a rapturous welcome after completing a successful 10-day working visit to the United States. The monarch was received by a high-powered delegation of local leaders, traditional chiefs, and security agencies, marking the conclusion of a trip designed to strengthen cultural and economic ties between the Asante Kingdom, the Ghanaian diaspora, and international institutions. A formal guard of honour was present at the airport to salute the King upon his touch down, reflecting the significance of his diplomatic mission. During his stay in the United States, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II engaged in a series of high-profile events that highlighted the intersection of traditional leadership and modern governance. A primary highlight was his lecture at Howard University, where he addressed an audience on the critical roles of governance and cultural preservation in the 21st century. Furthermore, the Asantehene presided over a historic and grand Akwasidae Kɛse celebration in Maryland. This event served as a focal point for the Ghanaian diaspora, bringing together thousands to celebrate Asante heritage and reinforce cultural identity away from home. Beyond cultural diplomacy, the visit included strategic economic engagements, most notably with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. These discussions were aimed at fostering investment and enhancing bilateral cooperation between Ghana and American business interests. The Asantehene’s successful return to Kumasi underscores his multifaceted role as both a traditional custodian and a global ambassador for Ghanaian development. His arrival at the newly upgraded airport facility further highlighted the ongoing growth and prestige of the Asante capital as it welcomes its leader back to the Manhyia Palace.

Merchants sold hats with the image of the king, who died at age 34. By Badru KATUMBA (AFP)
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Uganda Mourns as Body of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, World's Youngest Monarch, Returns from United States

The body of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the world’s youngest reigning monarch, has arrived in Uganda following his untimely death at the age of 34. King Oyo, who ruled the Tooro Kingdom for over three decades, passed away in the United States while undergoing treatment for cancer. His return marks the beginning of a period of intense national and cultural mourning for a leader who gained international fame after being crowned as a toddler. President Yoweri Museveni joined a crowd of somber mourners and high-ranking officials at Entebbe International Airport to receive the King's remains. The arrival was marked by a full military parade, underscoring the King’s significant status within Uganda’s constitutional framework of traditional kingdoms. King Oyo’s reign was historic; he ascended to the throne at just three years old in 1995, following the death of his father, Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Olimi VII. Throughout his 31-year reign, he served as a symbol of cultural continuity and youth leadership in East Africa. As preparations for the royal burial proceed, the Ugandan government has announced significant logistical and security measures. The interment is scheduled for September 12. However, the period of mourning coincides with regional health concerns; authorities have indicated that the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will be closed during the burial proceedings as a precautionary measure against an ongoing Ebola epidemic in the neighboring country. These measures are intended to manage the safety of the thousands of mourners expected to attend the final rites. Amidst the grief, the Tooro Kingdom faces a period of transition that may be marked by internal tension. While the kingdom prepares for the King’s final journey, reports have emerged regarding a potential succession row, suggesting that the process of naming a replacement may face complexities. Despite these administrative concerns, the local population continues to pay tribute through various means, with merchants selling commemorative hats and memorabilia featuring the late King's image, reflecting his enduring popularity and the unique legacy of his lifelong reign.

Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Urges Preservation of Slave-Trade Sites to Advance Reparatory Justice
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Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Urges Preservation of Slave-Trade Sites to Advance Reparatory Justice

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called on Ghana to uphold its duty as a custodian of history by preserving and accurately interpreting sites linked to the transatlantic slave trade. Speaking at a ceremony in Cape Coast, the Vice President emphasized that maintaining the country's forts and castles is essential for educating future generations about the systemic injustices faced by Africans. This call to action follows the adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 82/50, which formally recognizes the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as a crime against humanity. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted that Ghana's responsibility extends beyond the physical maintenance of prominent structures like the Cape Coast Castle. She urged for a "faithful representation" of history that balances the narratives of immense suffering with the enduring spirit of African resistance. To this end, she pointed to the significance of lesser-known locations such as Assin Manso and Sankana, which commemorate the resilience of African communities. By telling the full story of these sites, the Vice President argued that the nation can provide a more comprehensive account of the era, ensuring that the legacy of resistance is not overshadowed by the tragedy of enslavement. The preservation of these historical landmarks is viewed as a cornerstone of a broader agenda for reparatory justice. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang noted that the UN's recognition of the historical atrocities creates a moral and historical responsibility for Ghana to move beyond recognition toward active engagement. She stressed the necessity of deepening historical, cultural, and economic connections with the African diaspora, framing these preservation efforts as a vital step in strengthening the ties between the continent and its descendants abroad. Ultimately, the Vice President’s remarks underscore a commitment to historical justice and reconciliation. By documenting the physical evidence of the slave trade and the stories of those who resisted it, Ghana aims to provide a platform for healing and collective progress. These efforts are intended to ensure that the memory of the transatlantic slave trade serves as a catalyst for unity and the continuous pursuit of justice for people of African descent worldwide.

Africa Tourism Leadership Forum 2026: Minister de Lille and Regional Leaders Push for Integrated Connectivity in Polokwane
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Africa Tourism Leadership Forum 2026: Minister de Lille and Regional Leaders Push for Integrated Connectivity in Polokwane

The 2026 Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) has officially commenced at the Meropa Hotel in Polokwane, Limpopo, marking a pivotal moment for the continent's travel and hospitality sector. Bringing together delegates and industry leaders from approximately 32 countries, the forum serves as a high-level platform for discussing investment, cultural heritage, and regional cooperation. The event opened with a vibrant cultural showcase, featuring performances by the Badira Mmogo Cultural Group and exhibitions that highlighted Africa's diverse tourism potential. A primary focus of the forum is the urgent need for improved connectivity and travel accessibility across the continent. South African Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille addressed the gathering, emphasizing that regional integration is essential for a thriving tourism economy. Minister de Lille called for a balanced approach to migration challenges, promoting lawful travel while simultaneously working to reduce the bureaucratic barriers that currently hinder movement between African nations. By fostering better connectivity, leaders argue that the continent can better leverage its collective assets to attract global investment and increase domestic travel. Local leadership also underscored the strategic importance of the host province in this broader economic vision. Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, the Premier of Limpopo, articulated a vision for the province to serve as a primary gateway for tourism and investment into the Southern African region. This sentiment was echoed by UNESCO's Khaled El Nany, who discussed the necessity of diversifying tourism offerings by tapping into cultural industries. By integrating local traditions and creative sectors into the tourism value chain, stakeholders aim to create a more sustainable and resilient economic model that provides direct benefits to local communities. As the forum continues, representatives from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other key organizations have stressed that the success of the ATLF will be measured by its actionable outcomes. There is a collective call for the forum to move beyond dialogue and toward the implementation of strategic partnerships that catalyze sustainable growth. The 2026 forum is positioned not just as a networking event, but as a critical catalyst for the long-term policy shifts required to define the future of African tourism in an increasingly competitive global market.

Deputy Minister John Dumelo Urges West Africa to Cut $3.5 Billion Rice Import Bill at Africa Food Systems Forum
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Deputy Minister John Dumelo Urges West Africa to Cut $3.5 Billion Rice Import Bill at Africa Food Systems Forum

Ghana’s Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has issued a clarion call for West African nations to establish regional self-sufficiency in rice production to offset a staggering $3.5 billion annual import bill. Speaking at the 2026 Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) in Kigali, Rwanda, Dumelo emphasized that the region possesses the agricultural potential to eliminate its reliance on foreign rice. He urged for deeper collaboration between governments, the private sector, and farmers to strengthen the entire rice value chain, citing existing partnerships between Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo as templates for broader regional success. The call for a regional rice industry was echoed by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, who advocated for treating rice production as a strategic regional business opportunity. Kpaka highlighted the competitive disadvantages African producers face against subsidized foreign imports and noted that initiatives like the ECOWAS Rice Offensive are crucial for mobilizing necessary development funds. The dialogue underscores a significant shift in the region's agricultural strategy, moving away from fragmented national efforts toward a unified West African market that prioritizes processing, technology, and market access. Beyond rice production, the AFSF, which drew over 5,000 stakeholders from 50 nations, addressed the broader transformation of African food systems. Former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn urged African governments to take greater ownership of their food systems and improve coordination mechanisms. Central to these discussions was the evolution of the farmer’s role; leaders and experts, including those from the Gates Foundation, emphasized the importance of viewing smallholder farmers as business entrepreneurs rather than aid recipients. This shift is seen as vital for attracting the private investment needed to modernize the sector and improve access to innovative agricultural technologies. Hosted under the theme "Investing in Africa’s Agri-Food Systems: Nourishing Nations, Growing Jobs, Building Resilience," the forum highlighted 20 years of progress while acknowledging the urgent need for decisive financial mobilization. Rwanda’s Prime Minister and other leaders concluded that increasing domestic production is the only sustainable path to reducing the continent's vulnerability to global supply shocks. The four-day event aims to serve as a catalyst for new investments that will transform recent gains in food security into a resilient, self-sustaining agrifood sector across the continent.

At Least 37 Dead in Nigeria's Rivers State After Toxic Fume Inhalation During Petrol Theft Operation
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At Least 37 Dead in Nigeria's Rivers State After Toxic Fume Inhalation During Petrol Theft Operation

At least 37 people have been confirmed dead in Nigeria’s Rivers State following a tragic incident where individuals inhaled toxic fumes during an illegal oil-siphoning operation. The disaster occurred at the Okari Jetty in the Okrika Local Government Area, where a large group of people—estimated between 100 and 200—had gathered under the cover of darkness to siphon refined fuel from a pipeline or commercial loading vessel. Local authorities and search-and-rescue teams are currently on-site, as many individuals remain unaccounted for and the death toll is feared to rise as investigations continue. According to eyewitnesses and the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC), the incident was triggered when simultaneous extraction efforts by a large group of youths led to a sudden gas leak, resulting in mass asphyxiation. Survivors who were rushed to nearby healthcare facilities are currently being treated for acute respiratory complications and chemical inhalation. While Nigerian security forces have recently intensified operations against pipeline vandalism and oil theft, this tragedy highlights the lethal risks associated with illegal extraction in the Niger Delta. The Nigerian police have confirmed the fatalities but noted that a final casualty count is still being determined while search operations persist along the riverbank. This deadly event underscores the deep-seated socioeconomic challenges within the Niger Delta, a region that remains plagued by poverty despite being the heart of Africa’s largest petroleum-exporting nation. Decades of environmental degradation and a lack of sustainable economic opportunities have driven many local residents to resort to dangerous "bunkering" practices as a desperate means of survival. Advocacy groups emphasize that while law enforcement is necessary to protect national infrastructure, the root causes—including systemic poverty and the lack of community development—must be addressed to prevent such catastrophic loss of life in the future. Moving forward, the Nigerian government faces increasing pressure to balance its security-focused approach with comprehensive environmental restoration and economic programs for oil-producing communities. The state is currently aiming to significantly boost oil production and attract new investments by 2030, a goal that remains threatened by the ongoing crisis of oil theft and infrastructure sabotage. As the community of Okrika mourns those lost in this latest disaster, the tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the human cost inherent in the region's complex and often volatile relationship with its most valuable natural resource.

UN approves resolution in support of map that shows Africa's true size as nearly 14 times larger than Greenland, and about three times larger than Canada or the United States
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UN Approves Resolution to Adopt Equal Earth Map Projection Reflecting Africa’s True Size

The United Nations General Assembly has passed a landmark resolution to shift away from the traditional 16th-century Mercator map projection in favor of the 'Equal Earth' projection. Led by Togo and supported by the African Union, the initiative seeks to correct long-standing geographical distortions that significantly underrepresent the true landmass of the African continent. The resolution passed with an overwhelming majority of 164 votes in favor, signaling a major shift in how the world is visually represented in official and educational contexts. The traditional Mercator map, while useful for navigation, has long been criticized for exaggerating the size of landmasses near the poles while shrinking those near the equator. Under the Mercator projection, Greenland appears roughly the same size as Africa, despite Africa being nearly 14 times larger in reality. The new Equal Earth projection provides a more accurate representation, showing that Africa is approximately three times the size of the United States or Canada, thereby challenging centuries of skewed global perceptions. Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey, a primary advocate for the change, characterized the resolution as a vital step in addressing colonial-era legacies. He argued that the continued use of distorted maps reinforces outdated power dynamics and minimizes the physical and geopolitical presence of the Global South. While the United States was the sole nation to vote against the resolution, calling it an 'ideological distraction,' six other nations abstained, and many Western powers, including France and the United Kingdom, joined the majority in support. Following the vote, Togo has announced plans to update its national geography curriculum and educational materials by the end of this year to reflect the Equal Earth projection. The United Nations is now encouraging other member states and international organizations to follow suit, ensuring that future generations are taught a more factually accurate view of the world. While the resolution does not impact current maritime or aerial navigation practices, its adoption marks a significant victory for African diplomacy and the global movement for accurate representation.

Seven illegal miners dead, one trapped after pit collapse at Manso Keniago
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Tragic Pit Collapse at Manso Keniago Claims Eight Lives in Ashanti Region

Eight illegal miners have been confirmed dead following the collapse of a mining pit at Manso Keniago in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region. The disaster occurred late Thursday night, around 10:00 p.m., as the miners were engaged in search of gold. Initial reports indicated a rescue operation was underway for a trapped individual, but local authorities have since confirmed that all eight miners who were trapped underground have perished. According to reports from the scene, there were approximately 12 miners working in the pit at the time of the incident. While four individuals managed to escape the falling earth and debris, the remaining eight were pinned beneath the rubble. The recovery operation was a collaborative effort involving the local police, ambulance services, disaster management teams, and community volunteers who worked throughout the night and into the following morning to retrieve the bodies. Of the eight deceased, five have been identified as residents of the Manso Keniago community, while the remaining three hailed from surrounding areas. The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Amansie South, Benjamin Marfo, led the official response at the site, coordinating with emergency services. The bodies of the victims have since been transported to the morgue for preservation and further processing as families begin the difficult task of identification. Investigations have been launched by local authorities to determine the specific cause of the collapse and to assess the safety conditions of the site. This incident marks another grim chapter in the ongoing struggle with illegal mining activities in the region, highlighting the high risks faced by those operating in unregulated and often unstable pits. As the community mourns the loss of life, officials are expected to intensify calls for stricter enforcement of mining regulations to prevent future tragedies.

Legacy of an 'Academic Lion': Ghana Mourns Renowned Mathematician Professor John Hyde
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Legacy of an 'Academic Lion': Ghana Mourns Renowned Mathematician Professor John Hyde

The academic community in Ghana is mourning the loss of Professor John Hyde, a distinguished mathematician and intellectual leader whose influence spanned decades of scholarly excellence and social advocacy. Often referred to as an "academic lion," Hyde was revered not only for his mastery of complex mathematical theories but also for his unwavering commitment to integrity and the development of the next generation of Ghanaian scholars. His passing marks the end of an era for a generation of students who saw him as the pinnacle of academic discipline and moral fortitude. While his reputation as a formidable mathematics professor often preceded him, those close to Professor Hyde recall a mentor who masterfully balanced intellectual rigor with a deep-seated desire for open dialogue. Despite an initially intimidating persona—typical of a scholar of his stature—he was celebrated for encouraging robust debate and fostering an environment where students and colleagues alike could challenge ideas. His approach to mentorship was transformative; he did not merely teach formulas but instilled a philosophy that academic success is inextricably linked to character and civic responsibility. Beyond the lecture hall, Professor Hyde was a vocal advocate for social justice, integrating his academic pursuits with a broader vision for a more equitable society. Colleagues and former students describe him as a man of exceptional integrity who refused to compromise his principles, even when facing significant institutional or social pressure. This rare synthesis of high-level scholarship and a sharp social conscience made him a unique figure in Ghana’s higher education landscape, influencing both national policy discussions and the personal values of the many leaders he helped shape. As Ghana reflects on the profound legacy of Professor John Hyde, his contributions are increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of the nation’s modern academic heritage. His life serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative impact a single educator can have on the trajectory of a country’s intellectual and moral life. While his physical presence is lost, his legacy remains embedded in the academic institutions he strengthened and the thousands of professionals he mentored, ensuring that his commitment to excellence, truth, and justice will continue to resonate for generations to come.