Ghana Politics News

The latest Ghana politics coverage in one place: government and parliament, elections, policy, and the people shaping national life, from Accra to the regions. Stories are curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and refreshed through the day, newest first.

Global Political Volatility: Trump Navigates Iran Conflict and Legal Battles as West Africa Grapples with Security and Trade
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Global Political Volatility: Trump Navigates Iran Conflict and Legal Battles as West Africa Grapples with Security and Trade

The global political landscape is currently dominated by escalating tensions in the Middle East and significant policy shifts within the United States. U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced that military objectives against Iran are nearing completion after five weeks of conflict, citing significant damage to Iran’s naval and air forces. However, this optimism is met with international and domestic skepticism. UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves expressed sharp criticism of the U.S. decision to engage in war without a clear exit strategy, warning of severe impacts on global inflation and energy security. Within the U.S., the conflict has triggered a rise in gasoline prices and market instability, while the Trump administration simultaneously faces intense legal scrutiny over executive orders aimed at restricting birthright citizenship and tightening mail-in voting procedures. The dismissal of Attorney General Pam Bondi, amid criticisms of her handling of high-profile investigations, further underscores the administrative turbulence in Washington. In West Africa, the geopolitical focus is split between humanitarian crises and diplomatic milestones. A harrowing report from Human Rights Watch has revealed that over 1,800 civilians have been killed in Burkina Faso since Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s 2022 coup, with many deaths attributed to military actions and allied militias. This surge in violence has prompted calls for International Criminal Court intervention. Despite these security challenges, there are signs of stabilizing regional relations; the Government of Ghana has formally welcomed Burkina Faso’s decision to lift its suspension on tomato exports. This move, facilitated by bilateral talks led by Ghana’s Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, is expected to alleviate domestic shortages and stabilize market prices in Ghana. Meanwhile, former Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is set to lead an ECOWAS Election Observation Mission to Benin for their upcoming April 2026 presidential elections, signaling a continued commitment to democratic oversight in the sub-region. Legal and social developments across other territories further highlight a global trend of institutional reform and human rights advocacy. In Uganda, legal societies are moveing to block a controversial deportation deal with the United States, citing transparency concerns and potential human rights violations. Domestically in Ghana, the 8th National Women’s Summit emphasized the practical implementation of the Affirmative Action Act to ensure gender parity in leadership by 2034. Additionally, regional efforts to improve judicial and carceral systems were highlighted at an ECOWAS symposium, where prison officials called for collective action to enhance inmate welfare. These disparate events—from the 50th anniversary of Palestinian Land Day to Brazil’s new legislation on pet custody—collectively illustrate a world in flux, where traditional governance is being challenged by both conflict and evolving societal values.

Ongoing construction at the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange, which is part of the Accra–Tema Motorway expansion
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Ghana Navigates Landmark Legal Reforms and Fiscal Tension Amidst Governance Overhaul

Ghana’s political landscape is undergoing a period of significant legislative and structural transformation, marked most prominently by the passage of the Legal Education Bill 2025. This landmark legislation effectively ends the long-standing monopoly of the Ghana School of Law by permitting accredited universities to provide professional legal training under the regulation of a newly established Council for Legal Education and Training. While Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor has defended the reforms as a means to raise professional standards, the move has faced stiff opposition from the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). Former GBA President Sam Okudzeto criticized the government for sidelining legal practitioners during the drafting process, while former Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba emphasized that the reforms are necessary to modernize a system that has remained stagnant since 1968. Simultaneously, a new Private Members’ Bill introduced by MPs Ohene Kwame Frimpong and Ibrahimah Mohammed Zuwera seeks to amend Article 94 of the 1992 Constitution to impose a maximum age limit of 65 for parliamentary candidates, citing the need for legislative efficiency and a structured leadership transition. On the front of transparency and local governance, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) are intensifying efforts to combat systemic corruption. Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has called on civil society organizations to safeguard the OSP against political interference, noting that over half of such groups still trust the office despite mounting challenges. This call for independence is echoed by a recent Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) survey, which revealed that political interference continues to undermine the efficiency of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). Furthermore, the Public Accounts Committee, chaired by Abena Osei-Asare, has identified that over 70% of financial infractions in public sectors could be mitigated through improved documentation. This concern was underscored by Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza, who labeled the Ghana Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) as 'no longer fit for purpose' for managing complex road sector records. Economic policy and infrastructure development have also become flashpoints of political debate, particularly following the introduction of the Airport Infrastructure Development Charge (AIDC). Effective April 1, 2026, the levy—which charges intercontinental travelers $100 and domestic passengers 100 Ghana Cedis—is intended to fund major upgrades, including a new airport sewage system and expansion in Sunyani, Wa, and Bolgatanga. However, Deputy Ranking Member of the Roads and Transport Committee Hassan Tampuli criticized the levy as 'insensitive' given the prevailing economic pressures. This fiscal tension is compounded by concerns raised by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) regarding potential fare hikes driven by global fuel price volatility. Meanwhile, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has warned of a 'foreign takeover' of local markets, urging for a more stable fiscal framework to protect Ghanaian mining and oil palm industries from being outcompeted by foreign capital. Internal party dynamics and ideological shifts are further shaping the political discourse as the nation looks toward future electoral cycles. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is facing internal dissent, with groups like the National Youth Ambassadors for Change questioning General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua’s leadership following significant parliamentary losses. In contrast, prominent NPP member Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe has called for a unification of the Nkrumahist tradition to provide a credible alternative to the current two-party system. Additionally, the intersection of religion and politics remains a potent force, as religious leaders like Dr. Samuel Nii Noi Mensah urge President John Dramani Mahama to clarify his administration's stance on LGBTQ+ issues to ensure alignment with national cultural values. As these various legislative, economic, and social threads converge, the government faces the daunting task of balancing modernization with public accountability and economic stability.

Education Ministry Overhauls SHS Placement Policy and Announces Major Recruitment Drive
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Education Ministry Overhauls SHS Placement Policy and Announces Major Recruitment Drive

The Government of Ghana, through Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu, has announced a significant overhaul of the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS), marking a shift toward a merit-based and transparent admission process. Under the new policy, Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates will now select their preferred Senior High Schools only after their results are released, rather than before the exams. This reform provides a one-week window for students and parents to make informed choices based on actual academic performance. Additionally, the government is restoring the catchment area policy and reserving a dedicated percentage of placements for school alumni to ensure fairness and predictability in the placement cycle. While the reforms have been broadly welcomed by stakeholders like the Institute for Education Studies (IFEST) and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG) for addressing placement mismatches, others have expressed caution. The National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTA) raised concerns regarding the tight implementation timeline, warning that hasty execution could disrupt marking and results processing. Concurrently, the Ministry has received clearance to recruit 7,000 graduate teachers starting April 10, 2026, alongside 1,200 faculty members for public universities. However, PRETAG has characterized the recruitment of 7,000 teachers as inadequate to solve the systemic staffing shortages currently facing the education sector. Beyond secondary education, the government is intensifying its focus on tertiary reforms and industrial transformation. Plans are underway to establish a second campus for the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) at Kenyasi No. 2, which will specialize in mining, agribusiness, and entrepreneurship. This move aligns with a broader strategy to decentralize higher education and improve vocational training. Meanwhile, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a stern warning to institutions to strictly adhere to revised admission criteria for mature students. These regulations require applicants to be at least 25 years old with relevant work experience and passing entrance exam marks to maintain national educational standards. On the local level, Members of Parliament and municipal leaders are driving educational equity through infrastructure and direct support. In Tano North, Dr. Gideon Boako has empowered 2,200 BECE candidates by distributing mathematical sets and pledging full boarding kits for their transition to senior high school. In Lawra, MP Bede A. Ziedeng has broken ground for a new headmaster’s bungalow at Birifoh SHS to improve administrative stability. Furthermore, in Kwadaso, Municipal Chief Executive Eric Assibey has urged persons with disabilities to utilize the government’s no-fee education policy, distributing business and educational materials to alleviate financial burdens. Together, these initiatives reflect a multi-tiered approach to modernizing Ghana’s educational landscape from the grassroots to the tertiary level.

Ghana’s Healthcare Crisis: Systemic Failures, Political Accountability, and the 2026 Recruitment Drive
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Ghana’s Healthcare Crisis: Systemic Failures, Political Accountability, and the 2026 Recruitment Drive

Ghana’s healthcare sector is facing a critical juncture as government officials and medical experts confront a series of systemic failures, ranging from a deadly "no-bed syndrome" to significant infrastructure deficits. During a recent national dialogue, Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah labeled the country’s emergency healthcare failures as "unacceptable," warning that delays and refusals of care are costing lives. This sentiment was echoed by Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, President of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), who highlighted that major facilities like Korle Bu Teaching Hospital are overwhelmed by a growing population and insufficient bed capacity. The crisis was tragically illustrated by the death of Charles Henry Amissah, who was reportedly turned away by three hospitals following a hit-and-run accident, sparking public outrage and urgent calls for reform in emergency protocols. Medical specialists have warned that the healthcare system is on the verge of collapse, with some facilities operating at 300% of their intended capacity. Dr. Joseph Bonney, an Emergency Medicine Specialist, pointed out that hospitals designed for dozens of patients are regularly treating hundreds, leading to a dangerous gap between Ghana’s international health commitments and its domestic reality. This overcrowding is exacerbated by a lack of preventative care, according to Dr. Kwame Asiedu Sarpong of CDD-Ghana, who argued that expanding emergency room capacity is only a temporary fix. He emphasized that the "no-bed syndrome" is a symptom of broader systemic issues, including human negligence and a failure to prioritize public health interventions and early detection. In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Health has announced a massive nationwide recruitment exercise for health professionals, scheduled to commence on April 16, 2026. According to Ministry spokesperson Tony Goodman, this initiative is supported by a financial clearance valid until the end of 2026 and will be decentralized at the district level to ensure equitable distribution, particularly in underserved areas. The recruitment process aims to be transparent and competitive, utilizing a quota system to fill verified vacancies. While this move is seen as a necessary step to bolster the workforce, it comes amid ongoing labor unrest, such as the strike by casual workers at Tamale Central Hospital over five months of unpaid salary arrears, highlighting the persistent financial hurdles within the sector. Adding to the political complexity of the healthcare landscape are controversies surrounding major infrastructure projects and local resource gaps. Former Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye recently defended a GH₵20 million payment for the stalled Parliamentary Hospital project, asserting that significant preparatory work was completed despite the project's valuation at $46 million. Meanwhile, traditional leaders like the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, have expressed frustration over the state of local facilities, noting that the 100-year-old Kyebi Government Hospital still lacks essential laboratory equipment and scanners. These localized grievances, combined with the Gender Ministry’s efforts to strengthen social protection through visits to facilities like the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, underscore the multi-faceted nature of the crisis. Moving forward, the success of Ghana’s healthcare reform will likely depend on the government’s ability to move beyond reactive measures. While the 2026 recruitment drive offers hope for a more robust workforce, experts insist that a holistic approach—integrating preventative medicine, ensuring timely payment of workers, and fulfilling promises for regional emergency centers—is essential. As the Ministry of Health works to complete its hiring process by the December 31, 2026, deadline, the pressure remains on political leaders to bridge the gap between policy announcements and the lived reality of patients seeking life-saving care in Ghana’s emergency wards.

Ghana to Launch Free Visa Policy for Africans as President Mahama and Mnangagwa Sign Landmark Bilateral Agreements
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Ghana to Launch Free Visa Policy for Africans as President Mahama and Mnangagwa Sign Landmark Bilateral Agreements

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a groundbreaking free visa policy for all African nationals, set to take effect on May 25, 2026, to coincide with Africa Day. This historic declaration was made during a three-day state visit by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to Accra. The visit, characterized by full military honors and high-level diplomatic engagements, underscores a renewed commitment to Pan-Africanism and the strengthening of ties between the two nations. President Mahama emphasized that the initiative is designed to transform Ghana into a primary hub for tourism and investment by removing travel barriers for continental neighbors. The new visa regime will allow African travelers to obtain e-visas online at no cost. This move follows a broader strategy of regional integration; President Mahama revealed that Ghana has signed 23 visa waiver agreements since 2025 to facilitate easier movement for citizens. During the bilateral discussions, both leaders highlighted the importance of intra-African trade and the necessity of creating a seamless environment for the private sector. The policy is expected to position Ghana as a leader in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework by fostering a more open and accessible economy. In addition to the visa reforms, Ghana and Zimbabwe solidified their partnership by signing 10 landmark Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements span critical sectors including health, energy, tourism, trade, agriculture, and waste management. President Mnangagwa paid an emotional tribute to Ghana during a state banquet, acknowledging the country as a vital training ground for Zimbabwean freedom fighters during their liberation struggle. He emphasized that the bond between the two countries is rooted in a shared history of resistance against colonialism and a mutual desire for sustainable development. To ensure these agreements deliver tangible benefits, the leaders revitalized the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC), which will meet every two years to monitor progress. The visit also included symbolic and practical engagements, such as a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and tours of the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre and the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant. As both presidents called for increased global cooperation and the adherence to international law, the state visit concluded with a clear roadmap for a more integrated and prosperous future for both nations and the African continent at large.

Ghana Faces Pivotal Industrial Transitions and Economic Ultimatums Amid Sectoral Unrest
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Ghana Faces Pivotal Industrial Transitions and Economic Ultimatums Amid Sectoral Unrest

The Ghanaian government is navigating a complex landscape of industrial transitions and mounting economic demands, headlined by the upcoming state takeover of the Damang Gold Mine scheduled for April 18, 2026. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has issued firm assurances that all existing contracts will be honored and no job losses will occur as the current lease with Gold Fields expires. This transition comes at a time of heightened political friction regarding the nation's investment climate; Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin recently warned that Ghana’s mining sector faces one of the world’s highest tax burdens, which he argues is driving significant capital flight to more competitive jurisdictions and undermining long-term investor confidence. Concurrently, the executive branch is grappling with a 48-hour ultimatum from the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) to scrap fuel-related taxes or face nationwide fare hikes. This pressure is reinforced by the Minority in Parliament, with Energy Committee Deputy Ranking Member Collins Adomako-Mensah calling for the immediate removal of the GH₵1 fuel levy to alleviate the rising cost of living. While Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor has been engaging stakeholders to boost the upstream petroleum sector and address declining reserves, financial experts like Dalex Finance CEO Joe Jackson have urged the government to remain cautious, noting that a hasty removal of taxes could destabilize the economy further amidst global oil supply volatility. On the social and infrastructure front, the administration is being urged to fulfill long-standing promises to citizens affected by environmental crises and stalled development. In the Tongu enclave, traditional leaders have called for the urgent resettlement of victims displaced by the Akosombo Dam spillage nearly three years ago, while residents in the North East Region demand non-partisan action on the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam to mitigate recurring floods. These regional grievances are compounded by a surge in judicial and security concerns, including the arrest of an individual for threatening a High Court judge and the ongoing trial of former Narcotics Control Commission Director-General Kenneth Adu-Amanfoh on charges of stealing and assault. As these multi-sectoral challenges converge, the government’s ability to maintain stability hinges on transparent communication and effective policy execution. From the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority’s new vehicle inspection reforms to the Ghana Maritime Authority’s push for ILO convention ratification to boost seafaring jobs, the state is attempting to modernize regulatory frameworks. However, recurring strikes by casual health workers in Tamale over unpaid salaries and deadly land disputes in Kumasi underscore a pressing need for the government to address localized grievances and ensure that national policy shifts do not leave vulnerable populations behind.

Ghana’s 2026 Diplomatic and Domestic Push: Mnangagwa State Visit, EU Security Pact, and Healthcare Reforms Take Center Stage
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Ghana’s 2026 Diplomatic and Domestic Push: Mnangagwa State Visit, EU Security Pact, and Healthcare Reforms Take Center Stage

President John Dramani Mahama has spearheaded a significant week of diplomacy and security for Ghana, welcoming Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa for a three-day state visit while finalizing a landmark Security and Defence Partnership with the European Union. The visit by President Mnangagwa, spanning April 1 to April 3, 2026, aims to solidify bilateral cooperation in agriculture, trade, tourism, and healthcare through several Memoranda of Understanding. Simultaneously, Vice-President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and EU High Representative Kaja Kallas signed a pact to combat jihadism and piracy—the first of its kind between the EU and an African nation. While these moves signal Ghana's growing international influence, the EU partnership has drawn criticism from some pan-Africanist circles concerned about sovereignty and historical colonial dynamics, particularly following EU abstentions on a recent UN resolution regarding slavery. Domestically, the Mahama administration is preparing for the April 15 launch of a comprehensive Free Primary Healthcare programme. During a consultative meeting with civil society organizations (CSOs) at the Jubilee House, the President detailed plans to deploy community health volunteers for house-to-house checks and announced the establishment of an Independent Value for Money Office to oversee public procurement. This push for accountability comes as the government also faces calls for constitutional reforms based on previous review recommendations. Meanwhile, in the legislative sphere, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has challenged the government’s rollout of AI-powered customs assessment systems at the ports. He alleges that the lack of legal safeguards and stakeholder consultation has led to inflated and unjust charges for compliant businesses, prompting the Minority Caucus to seek parliamentary oversight and remedies for affected importers. Political accountability remains a sharp focal point as the Action Alliance Party (AAP) demands an independent probe into President Mahama’s use of his brother Ibrahim Mahama’s private jet for official travel. AAP Chairman Nazir Abdul-Rahaman Darlington cited the need for transparency, especially given the unfit status of the official presidential jet. This atmosphere of scrutiny extends to the legal arena, where former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame has threatened to sue Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu for defamation over allegations related to NPP Chairman Wontumi. Internal party dynamics are also shifting; the Convention People’s Party (CPP) is grappling with a leadership crisis as regional chairmen demand the dissolution of the National Working Committee, while within the NPP, Dr. Charles Dwamena’s campaign for General Secretary has reaffirmed a commitment to discipline and youth engagement ahead of the 2028 elections. Beyond Ghana's borders, regional and international developments continue to impact the political landscape. Nigeria’s parliament has approved a record 68.30 trillion naira ($49.4 billion) budget for 2026 to support President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, even as the country’s High Commission in South Africa warns citizens to exercise caution following violent anti-immigration protests. On the global stage, media freedoms remain under pressure, highlighted by a Tunisian court sentencing editor Ghassen Ben Khelifa to two years in prison, an act condemned by unions as a systemic attack on free speech. As Ghana navigates these complex domestic and international waters, the central challenge remains balancing ambitious social infrastructure projects with the rigorous demands of democratic transparency and regional security stability.

Participants in the International Women’s Day
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Mahama Shifts Focus to Social Relief Amid Rising Tensions Over Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation and Economic Reforms

The Ghanaian political landscape is currently defined by a strategic shift in government priorities as President John Dramani Mahama emphasizes "basic needs" over controversial legislative agendas. Central to this shift is the President's decision to deprioritize the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, asserting that immediate challenges like healthcare, education, and economic dignity must take precedence. This stance has sparked a nationwide debate, with supporters praising the focus on socio-economic stability while critics, including opposition figures and religious leaders, accuse the administration of neglecting core cultural values and backtracking on previous commitments to the electorate. The fallout from the President's comments has been swift and polarized. High-profile media figures such as Nana Aba Anamoah and activist Wanlov the Kubolor have lauded the administration for focusing on tangible resources like food and water. However, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), through Communications Director Richard Ahiagbah, has labeled the move as hypocritical, while Deputy Minister Mohammed Adams Sukparu has threatened to resign his seat if the bill is not eventually signed into law. This internal tension is further highlighted by the resurfacing of old videos featuring Minister Samuel Nartey George, which have placed him under intense social media scrutiny regarding his previous vocal advocacy for the bill. Regionally, the situation in Ghana contrasts sharply with Senegal, where President Bassirou Diomaye Faye recently signed a law doubling prison terms for same-sex acts, reflecting a broader, albeit varied, legislative crackdown across the continent. Beyond the legislative friction, the government is actively pursuing social protection reforms and economic empowerment initiatives. A nationwide review of the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme is currently underway to increase the beneficiary pool from 350,000 to 400,000 households, though the verification process has caused a temporary two-week delay in payments to ensure aid reaches those in genuine need. In the health sector, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has contributed GH¢1 million to the MahamaCares Fund to bolster treatment for non-communicable diseases, which account for 45% of the nation's mortality rate. Furthermore, the government has reaffirmed its support for women-owned businesses by earmarking GH¢400 million from the national budget for the establishment of a Women’s Development Bank, aimed at providing collateral-free loans to micro and small enterprises. On the international and judicial fronts, Ghana continues to navigate complex issues of justice and heritage. Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa recently challenged UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch over her stance on slavery reparations, urging a historical reckoning that favors victims over former slave owners. Domestically, the Supreme Court is set to hear the landmark Wesley Girls’ Senior High School case on April 21, addressing the constitutionality of religious mandates for Muslim students. Meanwhile, human rights advocates in the Upper East Region are calling for zero interference in sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) cases, as rising instances of defilement and community intervention continue to obstruct the legal process. Together, these developments reflect a government attempting to balance urgent economic relief with long-standing social, legal, and international disputes.

Ghana’s Education Ministry Announces Massive Teacher Recruitment and Major Policy Reforms for BECE Candidates
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Ghana’s Education Ministry Announces Massive Teacher Recruitment and Major Policy Reforms for BECE Candidates

The Government of Ghana has unveiled a series of sweeping reforms and recruitment initiatives aimed at strengthening the nation’s education sector. Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, announced that the Ministry has received clearance from the Ministry of Finance to recruit 7,000 new teachers to address staffing shortages, particularly in underserved and rural communities. The recruitment process, which begins on April 10, 2026, will target graduates from the 2023, 2024, and 2025 cohorts. In addition to basic education staffing, the government is set to hire 1,200 faculty members for public universities to bridge academic gaps in tertiary institutions, with successful candidates expected to be onboarded by July 1, 2026. Alongside the recruitment drive, the Ministry is introducing a significant policy change to the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). Under the new system, candidates will now select their preferred Senior High Schools only after their results are released. This reform provides a mandatory one-week window for students to make informed choices based on their actual academic performance, a move intended to eliminate the mismatch between student grades and school placements that previously plagued the admission process. However, the government's infrastructure plans have met with mixed reactions. While the Ministry moves forward with plans to establish a new College of Education in Ezinlibo, Jomoro, the move has been criticized by the think tank Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch). The group argues that the project lacks empirical justification, noting that existing institutions like the Enchi College of Education are operating 30% below capacity. Eduwatch further warned that with a national GH""16 billion education financing gap and a reported oversupply of trained teachers, the government should prioritize optimizing current facilities over building new ones. Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has also directed the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to release GH""5 million to complete the Ghana Awards House, emphasizing its role in youth development. In a broader effort to modernize educational infrastructure and curriculum, Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi and Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu recently inspected the construction of the National Defence University in Teshie, which aims to become a regional hub for strategic military studies. Additionally, the Ministry launched a revised Complementary Basic Education (CBE) curriculum designed to provide out-of-school children aged 8 to 16 with foundational literacy and numeracy skills in their mother tongues. These efforts, combined with a renewed focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and the inauguration of new governing councils for institutions like St John Bosco and Valley View University, signal a comprehensive push toward creating an inclusive, skill-based educational environment for Ghana's future workforce.

Participants in the event
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Accountability and Infrastructure in Focus: PAC Probes Financial Irregularities as Suame Interchange Resumes

Ghana’s governance and public financial management have come under intense scrutiny as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament investigates several high-profile cases of alleged fiscal mismanagement. At the forefront is the summons of former Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye regarding a GH₵20 million payment for a proposed Parliamentary Service Hospital that has yet to see any physical construction. This inquiry is part of a broader push for accountability that includes the GH₵8.2 million 'Toilet for All' project, where funds were disbursed without work being executed, and a GH₵21 million expenditure on Black Star Square renovations despite the relocation of the 67th Independence Day celebrations. These cases, alongside the interdiction of former Defence procurement official Frank Oliver Kpodo over missing surveillance vehicles, have prompted anti-corruption campaigners like Edem Senanu to warn of systemic failures in the nation’s public spending frameworks. On the infrastructure front, the Ministry of Roads and Highways has announced significant progress in resolving long-standing contractor debts. Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza and Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene confirmed that all outstanding payments for the Suame Interchange project have been cleared, with work set to resume immediately to alleviate traffic congestion in Kumasi. While the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to 'The Big Push' infrastructure agenda, he also raised sharp concerns regarding the Ghana Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS). Agbodza labeled the system 'not fit for purpose' due to its failure to maintain accurate records, which has led to persistent disputes between the state and contractors over certified works. Simultaneously, a debate over institutional integrity has emerged involving the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) and the policy think tank IMANI Africa. IMANI has alleged that SIGA issued directives to state-owned enterprises to monopolize insurance business with SIC Insurance PLC, a move they argue distorts market competition. SIGA’s Director General, Dr. Michael Kpessa-White, has denied these claims, asserting that the communication was intended only to ensure state insurers are included in competitive bidding processes. Amidst these tensions, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has called for civil society support to protect the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) from political interference, even as the office faces its own challenges, including a recent demand for compensation following a case of mistaken identity in a corruption probe. Looking forward, the government is intensifying its policy implementation with the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition setting an April 15 deadline for agencies to submit roadmaps for the 24-hour economy initiative. This policy aims to drive job creation and economic transformation through continuous operations in the petroleum and energy sectors. In Parliament, Speaker Alban Bagbin has urged Members of Parliament to demonstrate renewed commitment by curbing absenteeism and lateness as they handle pending legislation, including reforms to the Ghana Gold Board Act. These developments collectively highlight a pivotal moment in Ghanaian politics, where the drive for rapid infrastructure development must be balanced against the urgent need for transparent procurement and robust institutional oversight.

Wesley Girls' High School legal team
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Mahama Shifts Focus to 'Basic Needs' Amidst Infrastructure Push and Growing Calls for Governance Transparency

President John Dramani Mahama has called for a national refocus on education, healthcare, and job creation, urging restraint in the ongoing public discourse surrounding the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Speaking at a recent Presidential Dialogue, Mahama emphasized that while legislative decisions must align with the Constitution and human rights, the nation's most pressing concerns lie in providing essential services. This stance has drawn mixed reactions, with critics like Rev. John Ntim Fordjour accusing the administration of abandoning campaign promises, while others, such as Koku Anyidoho, invoked the firm stance of late President Atta Mills. To reinforce this social agenda, the President announced the launch of the Free Primary Health Care Programme on April 15, 2026, supported by the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and a GHS 1 million donation from the National Petroleum Authority toward the 'MahamaCares' initiative for non-communicable diseases. Parallel to these social initiatives, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, confirmed that the government's 'Big Push' infrastructure programme remains on track, with all verified contractors receiving full payments to maintain project momentum. A key highlight of this agenda is the Accra-Tema Motorway expansion, slated for completion in August 2027, alongside the 32-kilometre Akosombo-Gyakiti road project. Agbodza highlighted that the initiative is designed to build the technical capacity of local contractors, reducing reliance on foreign firms. However, this economic push faces friction at the ports, where the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders and New Juaben South MP Michael Okyere Baafi have issued ultimatums to the Ministry of Finance regarding the 'Publican AI' customs valuation system, citing inflated assessments and a lack of transparency in its implementation. In the legal and governance sphere, tensions have flared between the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and the Council of State. Dr. Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple has accused EOCO of power abuse and defying a High Court ruling that ordered the defreezing of his company's accounts, demanding a public apology from the agency's leadership. Meanwhile, the judiciary remains under the spotlight as the Ghana Police Service recently arrested a 49-year-old man for making viral threats against High Court Judge Justice Patricia Quansah. These developments coincide with the Supreme Court setting an April 21 hearing for a high-profile case involving religious rights at Wesley Girls' High School, a matter with significant implications for the autonomy of faith-based educational institutions and the rights of Muslim students. Educational reforms also remain a priority, with the government committing a GHS 25 million seed fund for the establishment of the Ghana Defence University and announcing a new College of Education in Jomoro for 2027. Despite these advancements, challenges persist as the Upper East Regional Childhood Development Committee raised alarms over the posting of untrained teachers to foundational schools. On the political front, the launch of the Action Alliance Party (AAP) signals a new challenge to the traditional NDC and NPP duopoly, focusing on youth empowerment and anti-corruption. As the 2028 election cycle approaches, advocacy for state funding of political parties is gaining traction, with organizations like CDD-Ghana arguing that public financing is essential to curbing the commercialization of politics and the influence of illegal funding sources.

Ghana Advances Global Justice with Landmark UN Resolution Amid Strategic Bilateral Engagements and Energy Negotiations
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Ghana Advances Global Justice with Landmark UN Resolution Amid Strategic Bilateral Engagements and Energy Negotiations

Ghana has secured a significant diplomatic victory at the United Nations with the adoption of Resolution A/RES/80/250, which formally recognizes the transatlantic slave trade and chattel enslavement as grave crimes against humanity. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa commended the 123 member states that supported the proposal, while vigorously refuting historical narratives that suggest Africa was an equal participant in the trade. Despite the broad international support, the United States opposed the resolution, with Ambassador Dan Negrea citing legal concerns regarding reparations and disputing the proposal's historical definitions. This diplomatic milestone underscores Ghana's leadership in seeking reparatory justice and establishing a unified African voice on the global stage. On the bilateral front, President John Dramani Mahama is set to host Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa for a high-profile three-day state visit beginning April 1, 2026. The visit, which will include full military honors and a state banquet, focuses on deepening cooperation in trade, tourism, and agriculture. This engagement follows a series of diplomatic successes at Jubilee House, where President Mahama recently received credentials from five new envoys representing China, France, Angola, Namibia, and South Sudan. Notably, Chinese Ambassador Cong Song highlighted a record $14.1 billion in bilateral trade, reaffirming Beijing's commitment to supporting Ghana's industrialization and debt restructuring efforts through grants and zero-tariff trade arrangements. To address domestic economic pressures, the government is intensifying negotiations for a strategic fuel supply partnership with Nigeria's Dangote Refinery. While Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu clarified that a definitive start date is yet to be finalized, the deal is a cornerstone of the administration's plan to stabilize volatile fuel prices and ensure supply security. This move comes amid global energy anxiety, with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi warning that oil prices could exceed $200 per barrel due to Middle Eastern conflicts. Domestically, the Ghanaian government is considering a review of fuel taxes and the gradual resumption of operations at the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) to shield consumers from international market shocks and geopolitical disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. These diplomatic and economic efforts are unfolding against a backdrop of regional instability and political shifts across the continent. In the Central African Republic, Faustin-Archange Touadera has been sworn in for a third term, pledging to prioritize national unity and security. Closer to home, the tragic killing of seven Ghanaian traders in Burkina Faso has sparked intense debate regarding state responsibility and the need for hybrid security governance. These multifaceted developments illustrate Ghana's proactive approach to navigating global justice, economic resilience, and regional security in an increasingly complex international environment.