News News from Ghana

The latest news news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Accra-Tema Motorway Reconstruction Hits 48% Completion as Engineers Prioritize Flood-Resistant Infrastructure
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Accra-Tema Motorway Reconstruction Hits 48% Completion as Engineers Prioritize Flood-Resistant Infrastructure

The reconstruction of the Accra-Tema Motorway has achieved a significant milestone, reaching 48% completion. According to the project’s construction consultant, Ing. Kwabena Bempong, the current phase of the multi-million cedi project is heavily focused on critical drainage infrastructure designed to address the persistent flooding issues that plague the corridor. This development comes as a relief to motorists and residents who have long endured disruptions during the rainy season, with the project aiming to integrate robust stormwater management systems into the highway's core design to ensure long-term durability. A key feature of the ongoing work is the development of an urban highway which functions as a service road alongside the main motorway. Ing. Bempong highlighted that significant progress has been made on several structural components, including the installation of 20 culverts and the construction of three major interchanges. These interchanges are reported to be nearing completion, marking a vital step in easing the chronic traffic congestion at major intersections. The integration of these structures is expected to streamline the flow of vehicles between the capital and the industrial hub of Tema once the project is fully realized. Despite the scale of the engineering work, the project team has implemented rigorous safety measures to ensure the motorway remains passable for the thousands of daily commuters. The primary challenge currently facing the construction team involves managing complex traffic diversions around the active worksites. These diversions, while necessary for the safety of both workers and the public, require careful coordination to minimize delays. The consultant emphasized that maintaining road accessibility is a priority even as heavy machinery and structural installations continue across different segments of the route. The push to accelerate the motorway’s drainage and interchange systems aligns with a broader national effort to mitigate urban flooding. This reconstruction update follows a nationwide clean-up exercise led by President John Dramani Mahama, which was initiated in response to recent flooding crises across the country. By aligning the motorway’s engineering with these national sanitation and disaster-prevention goals, the project is positioned not just as a transport upgrade, but as a critical component of Ghana’s strategy to enhance urban resilience against environmental challenges.

At Least 14 Dead as Diarra Transport Bus Plunges into Bafing River in Côte d'Ivoire
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At Least 14 Dead as Diarra Transport Bus Plunges into Bafing River in Côte d'Ivoire

A devastating road accident in northwestern Côte d'Ivoire has claimed the lives of at least 14 people and left dozens more injured after an intercity bus plunged into the Bafing River. The tragic incident occurred on the Touba-Biankou road, a critical transport artery in the region, sending shockwaves through the local community and the nation. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene near Bafingdala village, where they encountered a chaotic scene of wreckage and a frantic search for survivors in the water. The ill-fated vehicle, operated by Diarra Transport, was carrying more than 50 passengers at the time of the crash. The bus was en route from Odienne, a major town in the northwest, to the nation’s political capital, Yamoussoukro. Preliminary reports indicate that the bus veered sharply off the road for reasons yet to be fully determined, before crashing into the depths of the Bafing River. The impact and the subsequent submersion of the vehicle made it difficult for many on board to escape, contributing to the high number of casualties reported in the immediate aftermath. As of the latest updates from rescue teams, 40 individuals have been confirmed injured, with many being treated for severe trauma and water-related injuries. However, the situation remains fluid as authorities admit that several passengers are still unaccounted for. Divers and rescue personnel are continuing their search operations in and around the river, battling currents and visibility issues to ensure every passenger is located. The injured have been transported to local clinics and hospitals, while the families of those missing gathered at the site, holding onto hope for more survivors. This catastrophe underscores the ongoing concerns regarding road safety and transport regulation across West Africa. While the exact cause of this specific accident remains under investigation, the incident has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of safety protocols for long-distance transport companies like Diarra Transport. As the search for the missing continues, the government is expected to provide more details on the victims and investigate whether mechanical failure, road conditions, or driver fatigue played a role in this heartbreaking loss of life.

Bole District Police Arrest 40-Year-Old Woman for Alleged Murder of Husband Following Domestic Dispute
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Bole District Police Arrest 40-Year-Old Woman for Alleged Murder of Husband Following Domestic Dispute

The Bole District Police in the Savannah Region have apprehended a 40-year-old woman, identified as Mmaa, for the alleged murder of her husband. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community, reportedly occurred following a heated domestic dispute within their home. The victim, a farmer and father of nine, was allegedly attacked by his wife while he was asleep, leading to his untimely death. This tragic event has left a large family in mourning and the suspect in police custody as investigations proceed. According to accounts from the couple’s children and neighbors, the tragedy began with a misunderstanding late at night. One of the daughters reported hearing her mother issue death threats against her father during their argument. It is alleged that after the father retired to bed, Mmaa followed through on her threats. Neighbors were called to the scene by the distressed children, only to find the man unconscious in a pool of blood. He was immediately rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival, leaving the community grappling with the violence of the act. The aftermath of the incident has placed a spotlight on the welfare of the couple’s nine children, the youngest of whom is only four years old. With their father deceased and their mother in police custody, the future of the children remains a point of concern for extended family and local authorities. Following initial forensic assessments, the body of the deceased has been released to the family for burial, while the police continue to interrogate the suspect to establish a clear motive for the alleged crime. This case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the urgent need for conflict resolution mechanisms within households. Local authorities and community leaders in the Savannah Region are using the occasion to urge couples to seek mediation or counseling when disputes arise, rather than allowing grievances to escalate into physical violence. As the Bole District Police finalize their report, Mmaa is expected to be processed for court to face formal charges related to the murder of her husband.

Togolese Mason David Kpandoyo Convicted for Abducting Four-Year-Old Boy from Kpedze to Accra
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Togolese Mason David Kpandoyo Convicted for Abducting Four-Year-Old Boy from Kpedze to Accra

The Adentan Circuit Court has convicted David Kpandoyo, a 25-year-old Togolese mason, for the abduction of a four-year-old boy from Kpedze in the Volta Region. Kpandoyo was apprehended after transporting the child nearly 200 kilometers to the capital city, Accra, where the boy was eventually discovered wandering alone. The conviction follows a legal process in which the accused admitted to the charges brought against him, highlighting critical concerns regarding child safety and the swift movement of victims across regional borders. The victim's mother, who was entirely unaware of Kpandoyo, was separated from her child under circumstances that have shocked the Kpedze community. According to court proceedings, the incident began when the young victim reportedly approached Kpandoyo while the latter was at a local drinking spot. Rather than seeking the child’s guardians or alerting local authorities, the mason took the boy to Accra. The situation came to light when the four-year-old was found wandering unattended in the New Legon area, leading to a police investigation that eventually linked Kpandoyo to the disappearance. Following his arrest, Kpandoyo provided a full confession to the police, admitting that he had abducted the child. Upon being arraigned, he pleaded guilty to the charge of child stealing. While the conviction has been secured, the Adentan Circuit Court has scheduled his sentencing for July 14, 2026. This case serves as a stark reminder to parents and guardians to remain vigilant in public spaces and underscores the importance of community alertness in identifying and reporting missing children to prevent such cross-regional crimes.

Ghana National Fire Service Rescues Trapped Victim Following Cargo Truck and Excavator Collision in Volta Region
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Ghana National Fire Service Rescues Trapped Victim Following Cargo Truck and Excavator Collision in Volta Region

Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully rescued a male occupant trapped within the wreckage of a cargo truck following a severe collision on the Kpetoe-Sarakope Road in the Volta Region. The incident, which occurred on a Sunday, involved a head-on impact between a MAN Diesel cargo truck and an excavator. Responding swiftly to a distress call, firefighters from the Kpetoe Fire Station arrived at the scene to find the victim pinned inside the mangled remains of the truck, necessitating an immediate and delicate extrication operation. The rescue team utilized specialized equipment to safely remove the trapped man from the wreckage. Following his successful extrication, he was promptly transferred to the Ho Teaching Hospital for urgent medical treatment. While the exact extent of his injuries has not been officially detailed, the intensity of the crash—which left the cargo truck significantly damaged—underscored the critical nature of the emergency response. Local authorities and the GNFS have since launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the collision, though preliminary reports focus on the challenging conditions of the road stretch. Residents living along the Kpetoe-Sarakope stretch have expressed growing alarm over the frequency of road accidents in the area, which they attribute to ongoing road construction activities. Community members argue that the current safety measures implemented by contractors are insufficient to protect motorists. Specific concerns raised by locals include inadequate warning signage, poor traffic management at construction sites, and environmental factors that impair visibility. These issues, residents claim, have turned the road into a significant hazard, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles navigating the active construction zones. In the wake of this latest incident, there are intensified calls for contractors and relevant road authorities to prioritize safety by enhancing visible signage and employing dedicated traffic marshals. The GNFS and local police continue to urge drivers to exercise extreme caution when traversing construction areas to prevent further injury or loss of life. As the investigation into this specific crash progresses, the focus remains on whether a lack of adherence to safety protocols contributed to the collision, highlighting the broader need for stricter enforcement of safety standards across Ghana's road network.

Christian Council of Ghana Donates 500 Environmental Education Booklets to GBC to Boost National Sanitation Campaign
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Christian Council of Ghana Donates 500 Environmental Education Booklets to GBC to Boost National Sanitation Campaign

The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) has significantly bolstered its national sanitation advocacy by donating 500 copies of its specialized environmental education booklet to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC). The donation, titled "A Clean Environment – Our Responsibility," marks a deepening of the partnership between the religious body and the state broadcaster, aimed at fostering a culture of cleanliness and civic duty across the country. The presentation was made during a formal visit to GBC's headquarters in Accra, underscoring the collaborative effort needed to address Ghana’s pressing sanitation challenges. Led by the General Secretary of the CCG, Rev. Dr. Cyril Fayose, the initiative is a core component of the Environmental Care and Cleanliness Programme. This program was originally launched on April 30, 2026, in a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Local Government. By distributing these educational materials, the CCG seeks to provide citizens with practical knowledge and moral motivation to maintain their surroundings. The booklets are designed to serve as educational tools that translate environmental stewardship into a shared national value, bridging the gap between faith-based teachings and civic action. Receiving the materials, the Director-General of GBC, Professor Amin Alhassan, lauded the Christian Council for its proactive stance on environmental issues. He emphasized that the media plays a critical role in driving behavioral change and assured the CCG that GBC’s various platforms—spanning television, radio, and digital media—would be utilized to amplify the campaign's message. This collaboration is viewed as a vital step in utilizing mass media to reach diverse demographics, ensuring that the principles of responsible citizenship and sanitation practices outlined in the booklets gain widespread traction. This partnership highlights an evolving trend where religious institutions and media organizations align their resources to tackle socio-economic issues beyond their traditional mandates. As the CCG continues its outreach, the integration of these educational resources into GBC’s programming is expected to enhance public awareness and drive community-led sanitation initiatives. The success of this collaboration may serve as a blueprint for other civil society organizations looking to leverage state media for national development agendas, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment for all Ghanaians.

Firefighters rescue trapped driver after tanker veers off Accra–Kumasi Highway
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Suhum Firefighters Rescue Driver Trapped in Tanker Crash on Accra–Kumasi Highway

Emergency responders from the Suhum Municipal Fire Station successfully rescued a driver trapped in a HOWO tanker following a serious road traffic accident at Amanase on the Accra–Kumasi Highway. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, July 12, 2026, involved the heavy-duty vehicle veering off the primary carriageway and plunging into the surrounding bush. The impact resulted in significant front-end damage to the tanker, pinning the operator within the mangled cabin and necessitating an urgent intervention by rescue personnel. Upon receiving the distress call, a specialized seven-member crew from the Suhum Municipal Fire Station was dispatched to the scene. The team utilized advanced rescue equipment to perform a delicate extrication of the trapped victim. Following the successful rescue, the driver was assessed for injuries by the emergency team and subsequently transported to the Suhum Government Hospital for further medical treatment. While the vehicle suffered extensive structural damage, officials confirmed that there were no fatalities associated with the accident. Preliminary investigations into the cause of the crash suggest the tanker, which was traveling from Kumasi toward Accra, may have left the road due to either a mechanical failure or human error. Authorities have emphasized the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and driver alertness, particularly for long-haul transport operators on major transit routes. This successful rescue highlights the critical role of the Ghana City Fire Service in managing highway emergencies and ensuring that accidents do not escalate into avoidable tragedies through swift and professional response.

U.S. Embassy in Accra to Suspend Most Routine Consular Services from July 20 for Facility Maintenance
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U.S. Embassy in Accra to Suspend Most Routine Consular Services from July 20 for Facility Maintenance

The United States Embassy in Accra has announced a temporary suspension of most routine consular services, scheduled to take place from Monday, July 20, to Friday, July 31, 2026. This two-week pause is necessary to facilitate essential maintenance work at the embassy facility. Regular operations and full services are expected to resume on Monday, August 3, 2026. This announcement affects a wide range of services for both Ghanaian applicants and U.S. citizens residing in or visiting the country, prompting officials to advise the public to plan their travel and documentation needs accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. During this maintenance period, several routine services will be completely unavailable, including walk-in notarial appointments and the processing of Consular Reports of Death Abroad. However, the embassy has clarified that certain functions will continue with specific modifications. Adult passport renewals submitted via the drop box system will still be processed. Additionally, individuals who have received official notifications that their passports or other documents are ready for collection may pick them up at the embassy, but these collections are restricted to Thursdays during the suspension window. For U.S. citizens facing urgent situations, the embassy has emphasized that emergency assistance remains available. A duty officer will be on hand to handle genuine emergencies during the maintenance period and can be reached via the embassy’s official emergency line at +233 (0) 30 274 1000. For all other non-emergency inquiries and routine updates, the public is encouraged to monitor the embassy’s official website and social media channels. This scheduled maintenance is part of the embassy's ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and long-term efficiency of its facilities for staff and visitors alike.

Ghana weather today: Rain, mist and rough seas expected across several regions
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GMET Forecasts Heavy Thunderstorms and Misty Conditions Across Ghana; Safety Warnings Issued for Coastal and Northern Regions

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMET) has issued a comprehensive weather update for mid-July, forecasting a mix of misty conditions, light rain, and intense thunderstorms across the country. On July 14, southern Ghana is expected to encounter heavy mist and fog, particularly in forested and mountainous areas. While early morning hours will be dominated by reduced visibility, coastal cities like Accra and Takoradi are slated for light showers, with intermittent sunny spells predicted before the return of late-afternoon precipitation in some localities. In the northern and transition zones, weather patterns are expected to be more severe. GMET predicts that heavy thunderstorms and rain will continue to impact these regions, with the northern sector remaining the hottest part of the country as temperatures reach peaks of 36°C. Inland areas, including Kumasi and Sunyani, are expected to follow a pattern of misty mornings clearing into sunny intervals, followed by potential isolated thunderstorms as the day progresses. These conditions are part of a broader weather system moving across the transition belt, bringing localized rain to parts of the Greater Accra and Eastern regions. The agency has emphasized public safety, issuing specific advisories for various sectors of the population. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution during the early morning hours due to fog-induced visibility issues, especially on major highways and within forested belts where mist is most dense. Additionally, a warning has been extended to the maritime community; fishers and operators of small vessels are advised to stay alert as rough sea conditions are anticipated along the Ghanaian coastline. Residents in areas prone to flash flooding are encouraged to remain vigilant as the rainy conditions persist through the week.

Road crash: 3 dead, 15 injured near Juaso on Kumasi-Accra highway
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Three Dead and 15 Injured in Fatal Collision Near Juaso on Kumasi-Accra Highway

A tragic road accident on the Kumasi-Accra highway has claimed three lives and left fifteen others with various degrees of injury. The collision occurred on Monday morning, July 13, 2026, at Juaso in the Ashanti Region. Emergency responders from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) arrived at the scene near the Next Bon Gas station, specifically the Juaso Three-Lane area, where they confirmed the deaths of two males and one female at the scene. The accident involved a heavy-duty truck and a passenger van. The truck, a clinker-loaded vehicle with registration number GN 9673-25, was being driven by Stephen Amankwah. It collided with a van, registered as GM 4002-26, which was under the control of Nyame Ebenezer. The impact of the crash was severe, causing significant damage to both vehicles and trapping several passengers within the wreckage. According to the GNFS, a total of 18 individuals were involved in the incident. While three individuals were pronounced dead upon arrival of the emergency teams, the remaining fifteen survivors sustained injuries ranging from minor to critical. First responders provided initial medical assistance on-site to stabilize the victims before they were transported to nearby medical facilities for further treatment. The prompt intervention of the fire service was crucial in managing the scene and preventing further casualties, especially given the presence of a gas station near the crash site. Local authorities have launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision to determine the exact cause of the crash. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns on the Kumasi-Accra highway, one of Ghana's busiest and most accident-prone transit corridors. Police and road safety officials are expected to release more details once the investigation is concluded and statements are taken from the drivers and surviving witnesses.

Naval Training Command and IPRA Excellence Awards Highlight Ghana's Professional Growth in Security and Communication
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Naval Training Command and IPRA Excellence Awards Highlight Ghana's Professional Growth in Security and Communication

The Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) has officially launched its maiden VIP Protection Course at the School of Maritime Operations (SMOPS) in a bid to modernize Ghana's security capacity. This landmark training initiative, which commenced on July 13, 2026, aims to equip personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces and other security agencies with specialized close-protection skills. The launch coincides with a major international achievement for the country's communication sector, as a Ghanaian storytelling campaign was named a winner at the 2026 IPRA Golden World Awards. These dual milestones reflect a broader trend of professional advancement within the nation’s security and public relations industries. Led by elite instructors from the Special Boat Squadron, the NAVTRAC course covers a comprehensive curriculum including threat assessment, convoy drills, and emergency response. During the opening ceremony, Commanding Officer Commander Seth Dzakpasu emphasized the critical importance of professionalism and teamwork in high-stakes security operations. Naval Captain David Dela Kpetigo further noted that the course is a strategic response to evolving modern security challenges. Simultaneously, the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) recognized 95 campaigns globally for excellence, with Ghana’s storytelling entry standing out among international competitors. The winners will be celebrated at a grand gala in Athens, Greece, on September 25, 2026, where the prestigious Grand Prix winner will be revealed. In the social sphere, legal and spiritual matters have converged following the extradition and arrest of popular socialite Abu Trica. Prophet Roja, the founder and leader of Roja Ministries, has issued a public appeal to the family of the socialite for a private meeting. Speaking on Ahenfie TV, the prophet expressed his desire to provide spiritual insight into the situation, noting that he had previously been unable to focus on the matter during a recent all-night service. This development adds a layer of community interest to the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the socialite’s return to Ghana. Amidst these headlines, the Ghanaian community is also reflecting on personal milestones and the legacies of its citizens. A recent personal account shared on GhanaWeb highlights the internal mental challenges and shifting dynamics in modern marriages, specifically focusing on the psychological impact of salary disparities between spouses. Additionally, the family of the late Mrs. Essie Nyamekye Quainoo (Nee Annan) has announced her transition, with a burial mass scheduled for July 31, 2026, at Christ the King Catholic Church in Accra. Friends and well-wishers are invited to celebrate her life and legacy in white or black-and-white attire, marking a moment of somber reflection in a week of national activity.

ECG Announces Nationwide Power Maintenance as NADMO Dispatches Relief to Volta Region Flood Victims
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ECG Announces Nationwide Power Maintenance as NADMO Dispatches Relief to Volta Region Flood Victims

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) have launched separate large-scale operations this week aimed at infrastructure stability and humanitarian relief across the country. While ECG has scheduled essential maintenance works to improve service delivery in several regions, NADMO is actively responding to a crisis in the Volta Region, where flooding has displaced thousands of residents. These simultaneous efforts highlight a period of intensive government intervention to address both long-term utility reliability and immediate disaster recovery needs. Beginning July 13 and 14, ECG is conducting a mix of emergency and planned maintenance that will result in temporary power outages in several key areas. In the Greater Accra Region, the Accra West district will see outages affecting Asofian White House and the Poultry Farm area on July 13, followed by maintenance in Ofankor on July 14. Meanwhile, Accra East residents in Alajo and near the New China Mall should also prepare for scheduled interruptions. The maintenance schedule further extends to the Ashanti and Central Regions, including significant work at the Cape Coast Bulk Supply Point. In the Volta Region, Tafi and its surrounding communities are slated for maintenance on July 14 between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. ECG has issued a formal apology to the public, urging customers to make necessary arrangements to mitigate the inconvenience. Parallel to these infrastructure updates, the Volta Region is currently the focus of a major humanitarian mission led by NADMO and the Volta Regional Minister. In response to recent devastating floods that have impacted approximately 54,000 individuals across 12 districts, authorities have begun the distribution of essential supplies. The relief package is extensive, comprising 2,000 mattresses, 6,000 mosquito nets, 2,000 bags of rice, and 400 bottles of oil, among other vital items. This intervention is designed to provide immediate support to the thousands of families whose lives and livelihoods were upended by the rising waters. The dual focus on utility maintenance and disaster relief underscores the ongoing challenges within Ghana’s regional infrastructure and environmental management. While the power outages are expected to be brief and result in a more resilient grid, the situation in the Volta Region requires sustained attention. NADMO officials have emphasized that beyond the current delivery of relief items, they are working on long-term mitigation measures to address the underlying causes of the flooding. As the maintenance period concludes, the government remains focused on stabilizing service delivery while continuing to monitor the recovery process in the flood-affected districts.