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.

Assemblies of God Ghana Leads Gambia Mission as Kristo Asafo Navigates Leadership Transition
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Assemblies of God Ghana Leads Gambia Mission as Kristo Asafo Navigates Leadership Transition

The Assemblies of God, Ghana, under the leadership of General Superintendent Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, has successfully concluded a significant capacity-building mission in The Gambia. This initiative underscores the church's commitment to international missions, particularly as The Gambia serves as the denomination's first-ever mission field, established over three decades ago. The visit aimed to empower local clergy and foster stronger ties between the Ghanaian and Gambian wings of the church, reflecting the denomination's strategic focus on regional spiritual growth. During the visit, the Executive Presbytery organized two primary conferences that reached a wide range of religious leaders. The first session was tailored specifically for pastors within the Assemblies of God Mission, while the second was a broad, non-denominational event that attracted approximately 250 participants, including missionaries from the USA. These conferences centered on pivotal themes such as Servant Leadership, The Power of Unity, and The Role of Prayer in Transformational Leadership. To further cement the bond between the two nations, Rev. Wengam and his wife presented gifts to the participants, an act lauded by the host, Rev. Paul Ampofo Williams, for its motivational impact on the local ministry. While the Assemblies of God expanded their reach abroad, the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana remains focused on internal stability following the passing of its founder. During a recent thanksgiving ceremony held after the funeral of the late Apostle Emeritus Professor Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, prominent church member and fashionista Osebo addressed the congregation. His message served as a call for steadfastness amidst brewing concerns regarding the church’s future governance and leadership structure, emphasizing the need for unity during this period of transition. Addressing the ongoing leadership disputes within the mission, Osebo urged members to remain firm in their faith and dedicated to the legacy of the late Apostle Safo. By declaring that the congregation does not know anyone else aside from the late founder, he highlighted the deep-seated loyalty many members feel toward the founder’s original vision. This sentiment comes at a critical time for the mission as it navigates the complexities of transitioning leadership while attempting to prevent internal divisions from diminishing the spiritual focus of the church. These developments reflect the dual nature of current religious leadership in Ghana: a drive for international influence and the challenge of institutional continuity. Whether through the proactive international outreach of the Assemblies of God or the internal consolidation efforts of the Kristo Asafo Mission, Ghana's religious institutions continue to play a central role in both regional spiritual development and the preservation of domestic faith legacies. The successful Gambian mission and the resilience of the Kristo Asafo congregants both demonstrate the profound impact of Ghanaian spiritual leadership on the African continent.

Jomoro Municipal Assembly Demolishes Unauthorized Storey Building Along Elubo Highway
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Jomoro Municipal Assembly Demolishes Unauthorized Storey Building Along Elubo Highway

The Jomoro Municipal Assembly has carried out the demolition of a storey building in Elubo, located within the Western Region, citing significant regulatory infractions. According to municipal officials, the structure was built dangerously close to the main highway and lacked the mandatory building permit required for such developments. This enforcement action highlights the Assembly's commitment to ensuring all physical structures within its jurisdiction comply with national safety standards and urban planning regulations. The decision to demolish the building follows observations regarding the risks of unauthorized construction in the area. Structures situated too near international transit corridors, like the one passing through the border town of Elubo, can impede future road expansion projects and pose safety hazards to motorists. By taking this firm stance, the Jomoro Municipal Assembly is enforcing the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, which mandates that developers obtain formal approval and adhere to specified setbacks before any work begins. This move is intended to curb haphazard development across the region. Moving forward, the Assembly has urged all prospective developers and property owners to follow proper legal procedures to avoid similar financial losses. It is essential for individuals to consult with physical planning departments and secure all necessary documentation before commencing construction. Under the current administration of President John Mahama, there is a renewed emphasis on local government accountability and the strict enforcement of building codes to foster safe and orderly growth. This incident serves as a stern reminder that the law will be upheld to protect public interest and ensure sustainable urban development.

Presidential Special Envoy KKD Addresses Son’s Transgender Identity in Starr FM Interview
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Presidential Special Envoy KKD Addresses Son’s Transgender Identity in Starr FM Interview

Kwasi Kyei Darkwah (KKD), the Presidential Special Envoy to the Caribbean Region, has broken his silence on rumors surrounding his son, Kweku, by affirming his support for his son's gender identity. Speaking during a widely followed interview with Bola Ray on Starr FM, the seasoned broadcaster and diplomat directly addressed public speculation with a defiant "So what?", challenging the narrative that his son's personal life should be a matter of public debate or parental shame. This public acknowledgment marks a significant moment for the high-ranking official currently serving under President John Mahama’s administration. During the conversation, KKD emphasized that his son’s identity as a transgender man does not alter his fundamental duties or affection as a father. He made it clear that a person’s gender identity is a private aspect of their life that should not detract from their character or their family’s bond. By taking a firm stand on the issue, Darkwah aimed to protect his family from the invasive nature of social media rumors while simultaneously modeling a standard of parental acceptance. He stressed that his primary focus remains on his family's well-being and his professional service to Ghana, rather than the opinions of external critics. The interview has sparked significant conversation across Ghanaian media, highlighting the intersection between traditional societal expectations and the personal lives of high-profile public figures. As the Presidential Special Envoy to the Caribbean, KKD’s role involves representing the interests of the Republic abroad, a task he insists remains entirely separate from his private family dynamics. By addressing the situation head-on, he has moved to close a chapter of speculation, prioritizing his role as a supportive parent while continuing his diplomatic work on behalf of the state.

GACL Crackdown: Immigration and Port Health Officers Sanctioned for Extortion at Accra International Airport
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GACL Crackdown: Immigration and Port Health Officers Sanctioned for Extortion at Accra International Airport

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has announced decisive disciplinary actions against several airport personnel following allegations of extortion and unprofessional conduct at the Accra International Airport. In a statement released on August 6, 2026, the GACL confirmed the transfer of a Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) officer and the barring of two Port Health officials. These measures come as the airport authority intensifies its efforts to eliminate corruption and improve the experience of travelers passing through Ghana’s premier aviation hub. The GIS officer, a female staff member, was reassigned from her post after a video surfaced showing her soliciting a "token for breakfast" from a passenger. The recording, which circulated widely, prompted an immediate investigation into the breach of professional ethics. GACL emphasized that such behavior undermines the integrity of the service and the nation's reputation. While the officer has been transferred away from the airport environment, the move signals a low threshold for misconduct among frontline staff who interact with international visitors. In a separate but related development, two Port Health officers have been barred from working at the airport after they were caught extorting money from a foreign traveler on August 5, 2026. The officers reportedly charged the passenger $40 for a Yellow Fever Card, double the approved official fee of $20. Following a swift verification of the incident, their airport identification cards were deactivated, effectively ending their deployment at the facility. This action reinforces the GACL's commitment to ensuring that all statutory fees are transparently managed and that personnel do not exploit unsuspecting travelers. To prevent future occurrences, the GACL has introduced a dedicated hotline for travelers to report incidents of harassment or extortion in real-time. The company stated that all personnel at the airport are now under heightened surveillance to ensure compliance with professional standards. This anti-corruption drive aligns with the broader transparency goals of the current administration under President John Mahama. The GACL has urged the traveling public to remain vigilant and use the established channels to report any staff member who makes inappropriate demands, underscoring a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption.

Kano State Celebrates Mass Wedding of 1,500 Couples to Support Low-Income Families
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Kano State Celebrates Mass Wedding of 1,500 Couples to Support Low-Income Families

Kano State, Nigeria, has recently been the site of a monumental social event as the regional government officiated a mass wedding for 1,500 couples. This two-day initiative was specifically designed as a strategic intervention to assist low-income families who often struggle with the significant financial demands of traditional marriage ceremonies. By pooling resources and providing state sponsorship, officials aimed to alleviate the economic burden on young couples while fostering stronger communal bonds within the northern Nigerian state. The celebrations transformed the streets of Kano into a vibrant display of culture and joy, with the city coming alive for over a week of festivities. Bridal parties and families engaged in extensive preparations, filling the public squares with the energy of thousands of participants. The formal officiating process took place over a focused two-day period, during which government officials and local leaders oversaw the unions. This large-scale coordination required significant logistical planning to ensure that each of the 3,000 individuals entering into marriage was properly documented and supported throughout the organized events. Beyond the immediate joy of the unions, the Kano State government emphasized the initiative’s broader role in promoting social stability. By facilitating these marriages, the state seeks to provide a more structured family environment and reduce the social pressures that can lead to instability in the region. While the event has been largely hailed as a success, it has also sparked discussions regarding the importance of vetting participants to prevent exploitation by fraudsters or the occurrence of fake romances. Nevertheless, the mass wedding remains a significant gesture of social welfare, addressing the reality that economic pressures often delay or prevent formal marital commitments for many citizens.

Reuters Smoke rises from the Bald Range wildfire over a residential street in Summerland
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Massive Bald Range Wildfire Forces Thousands to Evacuate in British Columbia as Flames Double in Size

Thousands of residents in western Canada have been forced to flee their homes as the "out of control" Bald Range wildfire continues to spread rapidly across British Columbia. Since its detection on Friday, the blaze has doubled in size, now scorching over 36 square miles within the Summerland and Okanagan-Similkameen districts. Emergency officials have described the fire as one of the most aggressive and fast-moving incidents recorded in the region's history, prompting immediate evacuation orders for approximately 12,000 residents in the town of Summerland alone. The sudden escalation of the fire has created significant logistical challenges for both residents and emergency services. In addition to residential neighborhoods, several care facilities have been relocated to ensure the safety of vulnerable citizens. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the BC Wildfire Service are working around the clock to coordinate the movement of people while managing widespread power outages caused by the fire's progression. Beyond the immediate threat to human life, many displaced residents have expressed deep concern for pets and livestock that were forced to be left behind in the haste of the evacuation. This specific blaze is part of a much larger environmental crisis, with numerous wildfires burning across Canada this summer. The impact has transcended borders, as thick smoke from these fires continues to severely degrade air quality not only across various Canadian provinces but also in several parts of the United States. As the Bald Range fire remains uncontained, authorities are monitoring neighboring districts for potential further evacuations while firefighting crews focus on protecting critical infrastructure and establishing containment lines in the high-risk Okanagan territory.

ECG announces four-day power outage schedule for parts of Accra East
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Electricity Company of Ghana Announces Scheduled 4-Day Maintenance Outages Across Accra East Region

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has officially announced a scheduled four-day maintenance exercise across the Accra East Region, resulting in planned power outages from August 10 to August 13. These daily interruptions, which are slated to occur from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, are part of the utility company’s routine efforts to improve electricity service delivery and ensure long-term grid stability. The maintenance work is essential for upgrading infrastructure and enhancing the reliability of the power supply for thousands of residents and businesses in the affected areas. The outage schedule is divided by zones to minimize widespread disruption. On the first day, Saturday, August 10, power will be interrupted in Teiman, Oyarifa, the Mr. Smith area, and parts of Ogbodjo, as well as critical locations including the Tsmasiwaa Hospital and the Ability area. On Sunday, August 11, the maintenance will shift to Ashiyie, parts of Dodowa, Tobinco, Oasis Estate, and the Manet Junction vicinity. Customers in these locations are encouraged to plan accordingly for the eight-hour daily window of downtime. As the maintenance program moves into its second half, Monday, August 12, will see interruptions in parts of Labone, Agbogba Zongo, the Adenta SDA community, and the Tot-to-teen School, as well as significant portions of Madina. The exercise is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, August 13, with a final round of maintenance focusing on the Achimota School area. The ECG has expressed its commitment to adhering to the published timeline to ensure minimal inconvenience to the public. ECG management has advised customers in the Accra East Region to prepare for these temporary power interruptions by protecting sensitive electronic equipment and adjusting their schedules. While the company regrets the inconvenience caused by these outages, it maintains that these upgrades are vital for providing the high-quality electrical services expected by the Ghanaian public. Power is expected to be fully restored each evening by 5:00 pm upon the completion of the daily technical tasks.

NADMO Issues Urgent Flood Alert in North East Region Following Bagre Dam Spillage Notice
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NADMO Issues Urgent Flood Alert in North East Region Following Bagre Dam Spillage Notice

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has issued an urgent flood alert for the North East Region following an official notification from Burkina Faso regarding the spillage of the Bagre Dam. Scheduled to commence on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the spillage is expected to significantly increase water levels along the White Volta River and its various tributaries. This annual occurrence poses a direct threat to dozens of communities situated along the riverbanks, prompting national and regional disaster management teams to trigger emergency preparedness protocols to protect lives and property. In response to the impending surge of water, NADMO has directed residents in vulnerable, low-lying areas to relocate to safer, higher ground immediately. The warning specifically targets farmers, fishermen, and cattle herders who operate close to the riverbanks. Farmers have been strongly advised to harvest their crops prematurely where possible to minimize the economic impact of potential washouts. Furthermore, the organization has warned against any fishing activities or grazing near the floodplains during this period, as the volume of water from the Bagre Dam can cause rapid and unpredictable rises in local river levels. NADMO has intensified its public education campaigns across the affected districts to ensure that safety measures are understood and followed. Field officers are currently monitoring the situation on the ground and coordinating with local authorities to identify designated safe zones for displaced persons. The spillage of the Bagre Dam is a recurring cross-border water management issue that often leads to devastating floods in northern Ghana. By initiating these early warnings and community engagements, the government aims to mitigate the risk of displacement and the destruction of livelihoods that have characterized previous years. As the situation develops, NADMO has committed to providing regular updates and maintaining a high state of readiness to conduct rescue operations if necessary. While the spillage is a controlled exercise by authorities in Burkina Faso, the impact downstream in Ghana depends heavily on local rainfall patterns and the capacity of the White Volta to contain the additional flow. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety over the preservation of assets as the region enters this high-risk window.

Sanni Jajah
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Ghana’s Deputy Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Sanni Jajah, Passes Away

Ghana’s diplomatic community is in mourning following the death of Sanni Jajah, the nation’s Deputy Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. The news was confirmed by his nephew, Yussif Jajah, the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso North, who described the passing as a profound loss for both the family and the state. Sanni Jajah, who served as the Deputy Head of Mission at the Ghanaian embassy in Riyadh, reportedly passed away on Saturday, August 9, marking the end of a dedicated career in public and diplomatic service. Sanni Jajah was appointed to the high-profile diplomatic post on September 11, 2025, by President John Mahama. During his tenure, he was instrumental in strengthening the bilateral ties between Accra and Riyadh, fostering mutual respect and economic cooperation. His work was particularly notable for the administrative and consular support he provided to the Ghanaian diaspora within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He played a pivotal role in coordinating assistance for Ghanaian pilgrims during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, ensuring their welfare and safety during the intensive religious period. Beyond his official duties, Jajah was regarded as a dedicated public servant who bridged the gap between the diplomatic mission and the Ghanaian community in the Kingdom. His sudden departure has triggered a wave of tributes from colleagues and associates who highlighted his commitment to service and his ability to navigate complex diplomatic landscapes. MP Yussif Jajah, speaking on behalf of the bereaved family, expressed deep sorrow and formally requested that the public support them through prayers during this difficult time of mourning. While the specific circumstances surrounding his death have not been publicly disclosed, the Jajah family has indicated that further details regarding the funeral and burial arrangements will be shared in due course. As the nation awaits these arrangements, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration is expected to work closely with the mission in Riyadh to facilitate the necessary protocols for honoring the late Deputy Ambassador’s contributions to Ghana’s foreign policy and international relations.

Barber jailed for dumping refuse in public drain
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Hohoe Magistrate Court Fines Barber GHS 600 for Dumping Waste into Public Drain

A Hohoe Magistrate Court, presided over by Mr. Lambert Y. Keriba, has sentenced Ekpane Seyram, a local barber, to a fine of GHS 600 or a two-month prison sentence in default for dumping refuse into a public drain. Seyram pleaded guilty to the charge following a swift investigation by the Hohoe Municipal Environmental Health Unit and local authorities. The court's decision highlights the legal consequences for individuals who bypass established waste management protocols and endanger public infrastructure. The incident occurred on July 27 around 8:00 PM near the Konuvie Plaza area. Seyram was captured on video disposing of rubbish into a public drain, an act that was subsequently shared on Facebook and caught the attention of the Municipal Chief Executive and health officials. During the investigation, Seyram admitted to the offense, explaining that he had collected the waste from a nearby drinking bar before dumping it improperly, despite the availability of designated skip containers for refuse in the municipality. Prosecutor Daniel Dotse Eklo emphasized that such actions are significantly detrimental to the environment and public health. The court described the act as "barbaric," noting that dumping waste into drains is a primary contributor to urban flooding and the outbreak of diseases. Officials from the Environmental Health Unit reiterated that the municipality has provided adequate waste disposal facilities, making such illegal acts of environmental pollution entirely avoidable. This conviction serves as a stern warning to residents of Hohoe and beyond regarding the enforcement of sanitation laws. By penalizing this act of illegal dumping, the court aims to deter others from similar behavior that compromises the town's drainage systems and general hygiene. Local authorities have urged the public to utilize the provided skip containers and report any environmental violations to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the community.

Tuba: Two brothers arrested by police for suspected murder
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Accra Police Arrest Two Brothers for Murder of Tuba Car Dealer Mohammed Rahman and Shooting of His Wife

The Accra Regional Police Command has apprehended two brothers, Adams Adder Almeida and Bala Bilyon, in connection with the fatal shooting of 54-year-old car dealer Mohammed Rahman and the injury of his wife, Christiana Fosu. The violent incident occurred on the night of August 6, 2026, at the Beach Drive Estate in Tuba, located along the Kasoa road near Weija. While Mr. Rahman was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, his wife survived the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. According to police reports, officers responded to a distress call and discovered the couple with multiple gunshot wounds outside their apartment. Investigations revealed that the suspects, Almeida and Bilyon (also referred to in some reports as Bala Bayon), lived in the same residence as the victims. During a search of the premises, authorities recovered a pistol from Bilyon's room, which is believed to be the weapon used in the crime. During interrogation, Adams Adder Almeida reportedly confessed to the shooting. He allegedly claimed that his actions were motivated by derogatory remarks made by the deceased toward him, with some reports further citing mental distress as a factor. Almeida also informed investigators that the firearm used in the assault was provided by a friend identified only as Gideon. The police are currently conducting a manhunt to locate Gideon and bring him into custody for his alleged role in the incident. The case has sparked significant concern within the Tuba community, where Mohammed Rahman, also known as Kwasi Rahman, was a known local businessman. The Accra Regional Police Command has assured the public that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the attack. The two brothers remain in police custody pending further legal proceedings and formal charges as the community awaits justice for the deceased and his recovering wife.

Kristo Asafo Mission Names New Leader Akofena I as Ghana Observes One-Year Anniversary of Tragic Helicopter Crash
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Kristo Asafo Mission Names New Leader Akofena I as Ghana Observes One-Year Anniversary of Tragic Helicopter Crash

Ghana is currently observing a significant period of institutional transition and national reflection. In a major religious milestone, the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana has officially appointed Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I as its new leader. This succession follows the passing of the church’s renowned founder, Apostle Emeritus Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka. The decision, reached by the mission's council of elders, aligns with the late founder’s transition plan, which involved his three sons in the leadership lineage. The announcement was made during a National Joint Intercessory Prayer Service, where the church leadership emphasized the necessity of unity and cooperation during this pivotal shift in administration. During the service, Public Relations Officer Akwesi Ofori called upon the congregation to offer their full support to Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I, stressing that the mission must remain committed to the industrial and spiritual values established by the late Apostle Kantanka. This leadership change comes at a time when the mission seeks to preserve its legacy of innovation and self-reliance, which has become a hallmark of its contribution to Ghanaian society. The transition marks the beginning of a new era for one of the nation's most prominent indigenous religious organizations. Simultaneously, a somber atmosphere gripped the nation as citizens gathered at the Ohene Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), to mark the one-year anniversary of a fatal helicopter crash. The memorial service honored the victims of the tragedy, which claimed the lives of several high-ranking government officials, politicians, and three dedicated servicemen. The event was attended by senior government representatives, security service personnel, and the families of the deceased, who sat in silent tribute as Christian and Muslim prayers were offered for the fallen. These two events, though distinct in nature, highlight the resilience of the Ghanaian spirit in the face of both organizational change and national loss. As the Kristo Asafo Mission moves forward under the guidance of Akofena I, the government and the wider public continue to offer support to those affected by the helicopter crash, reinforcing a collective commitment to honoring those who have served the nation. The week's developments underscore the importance of legacy—both the visionary work of religious leaders and the ultimate sacrifice of public servants.