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.

Reverend Stephen Wengam is pictured delivering a speech at the Assemblies of God (AG) World Congress. He is dressed in a grey suit and stands behind a transparent podium equipped with a tablet and microphone, with several people visible in the background on a brightly lit stage.
news|

Stephen Yenusom Wengam urges prayer to plant one million churches by 2033

Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, has called for a renewed commitment to prayer within the Christian community to support the ambitious target of planting one million churches globally by 2033. Speaking at a gospel revival rally, Wengam linked the success of the denomination’s expansion goals directly to the spiritual discipline of its members and leadership. He emphasized that the mission requires a level of divine backing that can only be sustained through consistent and fervent prayer. During his address, Wengam expressed significant concern regarding what he described as a declining culture of prayer among contemporary pastors and church leaders. He warned that a foundational element of ministry is being lost to administrative or superficial pursuits, asserting that preaching without a strong prayer life lacks the necessary spiritual impact to transform lives or sustain new congregations. According to the General Superintendent, a reliance on human intellect or oratorical skills over divine intervention is a hurdle that must be overcome if the church is to expand its reach effectively into unreached areas. The rally, which featured performances by gospel artists and was attended by numerous church leaders, served as a platform to refocus the church’s evangelism efforts. Wengam urged the clergy to return to prayer as a primary strategy for church growth and community impact, rather than viewing it as a secondary activity. By prioritizing this spiritual discipline, the leadership aims to ensure that the drive to establish one million new congregations by 2033 is grounded in spiritual depth and long-term sustainability.

Bawuah Akwasi Adjei promotes cooperative mining in Ellembelle
news|

Bawuah Akwasi Adjei promotes cooperative mining in Ellembelle

The Western Regional Director of Cooperatives, Bawuah Akwasi Adjei, has officially called on members of newly registered mining groups in Ellembelle to prioritize environmental protection. Addressing the Responsible Cooperative Mining Societies, Adjei emphasized that the transition to legal, structured mining is essential for the sustainability of the region's natural resources. The initiative is designed to curb the prevalence of illegal mining activities by providing a legitimate pathway for local miners to operate within a regulated framework. During the engagement, the director underscored the importance of legal practices as a direct alternative to the destructive "galamsey" activities that have historically caused significant ecological damage across the Western Region. By forming these cooperatives, miners are brought under a regulatory umbrella that demands accountability and strict adherence to environmental standards. Adjei noted that the success of these newly registered societies in Ellembelle would serve as a crucial benchmark for the effectiveness of the cooperative model in managing Ghana’s mineral wealth responsibly. The focus on the cooperative model aims to ensure that mining activities contribute positively to the local economy without the associated environmental degradation seen at unregulated sites. By promoting these legal alternatives, the Department of Cooperatives hopes to foster a culture of environmental stewardship among small-scale miners. The director concluded by urging the societies to remain committed to the protocols of their registration, reinforcing that responsible mining is the only viable path to ending the cycle of environmental destruction in the mining sector.

A photograph showing an older man in a grey suit jacket and a patterned shirt standing next to a man in a dark green uniform. The man in uniform appears to be escorting or detaining the man in the suit in front of a tan building.
news|

Ottu Acheampong arrested at Nsuta Circuit Court for posing as lawyer

Ottu Acheampong was apprehended on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Nsuta Circuit Court in the Ashanti Region for allegedly impersonating a legal practitioner. The suspect is accused of soliciting money from members of the public under the guise of providing professional legal representation. His arrest was executed by two state prosecutors who became suspicious of his activities while they were conducting business at the court. The suspect's activities were brought to a halt after he was observed attempting to handle cases within the courtroom. Witnesses indicated that Acheampong had been actively approaching individuals involved in legal disputes, offering his services as a lawyer in exchange for various sums of money. Officials at the Nsuta Circuit Court moved to intervene after his conduct raised questions regarding his credentials and professional standing within the Ghanaian legal fraternity. Following his apprehension by the state prosecutors, Acheampong is expected to face formal charges related to personation and fraud. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the judicial system in identifying and prosecuting individuals who exploit vulnerable litigants by posing as qualified attorneys. Authorities have previously advised the public to verify the status of legal representatives through the Ghana Bar Association to ensure they are receiving legitimate legal services.

A close-up photograph showing a person's hands restrained in silver metallic handcuffs. The individual is wearing dark blue clothing, which is often associated with law enforcement or detention contexts.
news|

Police re-arrest one fugitive following Konongo cells breakout

The Ghana Police Service has apprehended one of the six fugitives who escaped from the Konongo Police Cells in the Asante Akim Central Municipality. The individual was captured in Kumasi, marking the first significant breakthrough in the manhunt following a daring jailbreak that has raised serious questions about the security of local detention facilities. The escape occurred after the inmates managed to burrow a hole through the cell walls, creating an exit path that led directly to the police station’s washrooms. Five other suspects remain at large, and police units are currently intensifying their search across the Ashanti Region and beyond to bring them back into custody. The method of the escape—digging through the physical structure of the cells—has highlighted structural vulnerabilities at the station. In response to the breach, the Municipal Chief Executive for Asante Akim Central, Dr. Ebenezer Ekow Aidoo, has announced a series of emergency security measures. These interventions include the immediate reinforcement of existing cell walls to prevent similar digging attempts and the installation of upgraded lighting and surveillance systems. Dr. Aidoo also indicated that more police personnel would be deployed for night duties to ensure constant monitoring of the facility. Looking toward a long-term solution, the MCE revealed plans for the construction of a modern police station that meets contemporary security standards. These upgrades aim to restore public confidence in the local law enforcement’s ability to secure detainees. For now, the police have urged members of the public to provide any information that could lead to the arrest of the five fugitives still on the run.

Percy Amoh Yankey urges journalists to adopt AI tools
news|

Percy Amoh Yankey urges journalists to adopt AI tools

Consultant Percy Amoh Yankey has called on media practitioners in Ghana to view artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for professional enhancement rather than a threat to their careers. Speaking at a Ghana Gas media engagement session held in Accra, Yankey emphasized that staying relevant in the modern media landscape requires a proactive approach to technological integration and personal development. He noted that the evolving nature of information dissemination necessitates that reporters and editors master new digital resources to remain competitive. The session, organized by Ghana Gas, was primarily designed to deepen journalists' understanding of the company’s operations, specifically regarding health, safety, and environmental sustainability. However, Yankey used the platform to highlight the critical intersection of technology and human skill. He argued that while AI can automate technical aspects of news production, it should be paired with high levels of emotional intelligence (EQ) to ensure quality journalism. He urged practitioners to build trustworthy professional relationships and refine their interpersonal skills, which he identified as essential human advantages that machines cannot replicate. Yankey further advised journalists to prioritize continuous self-improvement to navigate the disruptions caused by emerging technologies. He explained that AI offers significant opportunities for efficiency if used correctly, allowing media workers to streamline their workflows and improve the accuracy and speed of their reporting. Instead of fearing job displacement, the consultant encouraged the media to embrace these tools as allies in the quest for impactful storytelling. Participants at the workshop described the engagement as both practical and insightful, expressing appreciation for the focus on soft skills like emotional intelligence alongside technical discussions. The initiative by Ghana Gas was praised for fostering stronger communication between the energy sector and the media. By providing journalists with the knowledge needed to cover the industry while simultaneously encouraging professional growth, the event aimed to ensure a more informed and capable press corps.

Kwame Afram Denkyira, Bono, Bono East and Ahafo Regional Programme Manager of ActionAid, addressing the meeting
news|

ActionAid Ghana urges stronger protection for mining communities

ActionAid Ghana has called on the government and mining companies to implement more robust measures to protect local communities from environmental degradation and human rights abuses. Speaking at a consultative meeting in Goaso, the international non-governmental organization emphasized that the economic benefits derived from Ghana’s mineral wealth must be accompanied by strict environmental protections and a fundamental respect for human rights. The NGO highlighted that while the mining sector remains a significant contributor to the national economy, the local populations often bear the brunt of the industry’s negative externalities. The advocacy is being driven through the VOICES Project, an initiative designed to empower mining-affected residents to participate directly in decisions concerning their natural resources. Kwame Afram Denkyira, representing ActionAid, stated that the project aims to bridge the gap between community expectations and corporate operations. By providing residents with the tools to engage in mineral governance, the project seeks to ensure that the voices of those living in mining hubs are heard at the policy level. This approach focuses on moving beyond mere corporate social responsibility toward a framework rooted in social justice and community rights. A major focus of the consultative meeting was the promotion of local procurement to foster better community integration and address economic disconnection. ActionAid argues that when mining companies prioritize local suppliers and services, it creates a more inclusive economic environment that benefits the immediate area. This strategy is intended to mitigate the challenges of water pollution and land degradation that frequently plague these regions, transforming the mining sector into a partner for local development rather than a source of environmental and social distress. The VOICES Project is currently being implemented across several regions in Ghana, targeting areas where the impact of mining is most acute. Through continued engagement with stakeholders in the government and private sector, ActionAid hopes to influence a shift in mineral governance that prioritizes long-term sustainability and the protection of vulnerable populations. The organization maintains that a truly successful mining industry is one that treats environmental stewardship and human rights as non-negotiable pillars of its operations.

Most Rev. Prof. J. Kwabena Asamoah-Gyedu (middle), the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, with the newly elected Executive and Diocesan Chairmen of the Association of Methodist Men’s Fellowships.
news|

Methodist Men’s Fellowship inducts Isaac Oscar Odoom as new chairman

The Association of Methodist Men’s Fellowships of the Methodist Church Ghana has formally inducted a new six-member national executive team to lead the organisation for a three-year term. The ceremony took place during the association’s 14th Biennial Conference and 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Sakumono in the Tema District. Isaac Oscar Odoom was sworn in as the new National Chairman, assuming leadership of the group dedicated to the spiritual and social development of men within the Methodist faith. The induction was officiated by the Most Reverend Professor J. Kwabena Asamoah-Gyedu, the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana. Alongside Chairman Odoom, Ebenezer Dotse Narobi was inducted as the Vice-Chairman, forming part of the core leadership that will steer the fellowship's affairs until the end of their mandate. The conference served as a pivotal gathering for members to reflect on the association's progress and to set a course for future initiatives aimed at strengthening the church's impact in local communities. During the event, Most Rev. Prof. Asamoah-Gyedu highlighted the essential contribution of the Men’s Fellowship to the overall growth of the Methodist Church. He noted that the fellowship is a key driver of church developments, both in terms of infrastructure and spiritual outreach. The Presiding Bishop encouraged the new executives to lead with integrity and dedication, ensuring that the fellowship remains a cornerstone of the church’s mission to transform lives through the Gospel. The transition in leadership comes as the association seeks to deepen its communal ties and expand its various ministries across the country. As they take office, Odoom and his team are expected to coordinate activities across various dioceses, fostering a sense of brotherhood and shared responsibility among members. The induction marks a continued commitment to the association's goals of mentorship, leadership development, and service within the Ghanaian religious landscape.

Francis K Oppong, President of the Holy Family Akankuo of the parish, presenting the items to Very Rev. Francis Arthur, former Rector of St. Paul's Seminary.
news|

Holy Family Akankuo donates GH₵10,000 items to St Paul’s Seminary

The Holy Family Akankuo of the St. John the Baptist Parish in Odorkor-Tipper, Accra, has presented a variety of food and essential supplies valued at GH₵10,000 to St. Paul’s Catholic Seminary. This charitable act was organized to mark the group’s Golden Jubilee, celebrating 50 years of active service and dedication to the Catholic faith and community development. The donation comprised a wide range of necessities, including bags of rice, cooking oil, crates of eggs, cartons of milk, bottled water, and toiletries intended to support the daily needs of the seminarians. Speaking during the presentation, Francis K. Oppong, the President of the Holy Family Akankuo, highlighted that the milestone anniversary was an ideal moment to extend a helping hand. He noted that the group remains dedicated to the spiritual and physical well-being of those within the church, particularly those undergoing formation for the priesthood. Rev. Francis Arthur and the SRC President, Silas Ntany, received the items on behalf of the seminary, expressing their sincere appreciation for the timely support. They acknowledged that such gestures significantly ease the financial and logistical burdens of managing the institution. The seminary leadership further encouraged other religious groups and corporate bodies to prioritize such interventions, which play a crucial role in ensuring the successful academic and spiritual development of the next generation of Catholic clergy in Ghana.

A side-by-side composite photograph of two prominent Ghanaian religious figures. On the left is Pastor Elvis Agyemang, founder of Grace Mountain Ministry and Alpha Hour, wearing an orange patterned shirt, while on the right is Rev. Abraham Lamptey of Believers House of Worship International, holding a microphone and gesturing during a talk.
news|

Pastor Elvis Agyemang alleges plot against him by senior clergy

Pastor Elvis Agyemang, founder of Grace Mountains Ministry, has accused senior clergy members of orchestrating a campaign to ruin his reputation. During a broadcast of his popular Alpha Hour prayer session, the pastor revealed that colleagues in the ministry have allegedly recruited members of his own congregation to sabotage his work. In an emotional video that has since circulated widely online, Agyemang appeared moved to tears as he detailed the internal struggles he faces within the religious community. Agyemang claimed that the plot involves established individuals within the ministry hierarchy who are actively seeking to undermine his influence. According to the pastor, at least one specific individual from his church was approached by these senior figures with the intent of gathering information or orchestrating a scandal to damage his public standing. The revelation has sparked significant reactions among his followers, many of whom participate in his daily prayer sessions. In response to these allegations, Rev. Abraham Lamptey, the leader of Believers House of Worship, has publicly defended Agyemang. In a social media video addressing the controversy, Lamptey criticized the senior pastors involved, describing those behind the alleged attacks as "murderers with Bibles." Lamptey’s vocal support highlights the friction between different factions of religious leadership in Ghana and brings a rare degree of visibility to the competitive nature of modern ministry. The incident underscores ongoing tensions within the country's religious landscape, where younger, influential pastors often find themselves at odds with the established clergy. While Agyemang did not name the specific senior pastors he believes are behind the plot, the public nature of this dispute has brought questions of ministerial ethics and church politics to the forefront of national conversation. As the story develops, it remains to be seen how the broader religious community will respond to these claims of internal sabotage.

Ghana Police Service arrests 41 suspects in Accra narcotics sweep
news|

Ghana Police Service arrests 41 suspects in Accra narcotics sweep

The Ghana Police Service conducted a targeted intelligence-led operation in the Lapaz and Chantan areas of the Greater Accra Region on October 15, 2026, resulting in the arrest of 41 suspects. The exercise, which took place at approximately noon, was specifically aimed at curbing criminal activities and the proliferation of illegal narcotics in these neighborhoods. The operation was executed by the Special Operations Team (SOT) of the police service. Among the 41 individuals taken into custody are 35 males and six females. During the sweep, officers successfully retrieved a significant quantity of dried leaves suspected to be narcotic drugs. These substances have been secured for forensic testing and will serve as evidence in the ongoing investigation. Police authorities have confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody as officials work to determine the origin and ownership of the seized substances. The investigation also seeks to uncover any broader distribution networks the suspects may be affiliated with. The police administration has assured the public that legal proceedings will be initiated against those found culpable in line with the laws of the country. This enforcement action is part of a wider strategy by the Ghana Police Service to dismantle criminal hideouts and improve safety for residents within the capital. Security officials have encouraged citizens to continue providing timely information to assist the service in maintaining law and order across the region.

Nana Ohene Tagoe I, new Amanonehene of Abotakyi
news|

Richard Tagoe enstooled as Amanonehene of Abotakyi

Rev. Richard Tagoe, a 44-year-old minister of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), has been enstooled as the Amanonehene of Abotakyi in the Eastern Region. The ceremony, which took place on October 12, marks the introduction of a traditional role specifically designed to oversee the welfare of indigenes living abroad and to coordinate their contributions to local community development. The new chief, who is based in Belgium, was formally presented to the community following the successful completion of traditional rites. During the celebrations, the Chief of Abotakyi commended Tagoe for his long-standing generosity and commitment to the town's progress. The creation of the Amanonehene title is intended to strengthen ties between the traditional authority and the diaspora, ensuring that those living outside Ghana remain connected to their roots and contribute meaningfully to the town's growth. The community welcomed the appointment as a strategic move to link the town with international resources and expertise. In his first address following the enstoolment, Nana Tagoe pledged to utilize his international network to attract investors to Abotakyi. He highlighted several pressing local challenges that his office would prioritize, including high rates of unemployment and teenage pregnancy. By leveraging his position within both the church and the diaspora, he aims to create sustainable employment opportunities and improve the general welfare of the youth in the area. Beyond social issues, the Amanonehene emphasized his commitment to infrastructure development within the community. He noted that mobilizing financial and material support from indigenes abroad would be crucial for upgrading local facilities. This dual leadership role—combining his ministerial calling with traditional responsibility—is seen as a vital step toward fostering a more inclusive and proactive approach to regional development and modernization.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings
news|

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings memorial mass set for October 23

The family of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has scheduled a memorial mass for October 23, 2026, to mark the first anniversary of her passing. The service will take place at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Adabraka, Accra, beginning at 10:00 AM and concluding by midday. Organized to commemorate her life and contributions to the nation, the family has invited the public to join the remembrance, requesting that attendees wear either white or black and white attire. Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings served as Ghana’s First Lady from 1981 to 2001, a tenure during which she significantly redefined the role and visibility of the office. She was a prominent advocate for women’s empowerment and grassroots development, most notably as the founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement. Her leadership was instrumental in the construction of numerous early childhood development centers across Ghana, which improved educational accessibility for children in impoverished communities. On the international stage, she played a vital role during the 1995 Beijing Conference, championing the rights of women and children and influencing legal frameworks to support gender equality in Ghana. Beyond her social advocacy, Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings was an influential figure in Ghana’s political evolution. She contributed to the founding of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and later established the National Democratic Party (NDP), leaving a lasting imprint on the country's multi-party democracy. Her legacy is remembered for its focus on increasing women's participation in politics and ensuring that gender issues remained at the forefront of national discourse. The upcoming memorial mass serves as a moment for the nation to reflect on her decades of service and the enduring impact of her initiatives on Ghanaian society.