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.

President Mahama Pledges Intensified Galamsey Fight as Government Tables Mining Reforms to Boost Local Participation
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President Mahama Pledges Intensified Galamsey Fight as Government Tables Mining Reforms to Boost Local Participation

At the 2026 National Mining Dialogue in Accra, President John Mahama’s administration has underscored a renewed commitment to overhauling Ghana’s extractive sector through legislative reforms and a more strategic approach to illegal mining. President Mahama reported significant progress in the fight against 'galamsey,' crediting the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) with successfully reclaiming forest reserves and seizing illegal equipment. While acknowledging the challenges in preventing miners from returning to sensitive areas, the President affirmed that the government remains resolute in its duty to protect natural resources. This comes as the government officially laid new mining local-content reforms before Parliament, designed to ensure Ghanaian businesses and communities retain a larger share of the nation's mineral wealth. Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, detailed the proposed reforms, which stem from a cabinet-approved regulatory framework finalized in July 2026. The legislation aims to prioritize Ghanaian goods and services in the mining value chain, urging local communities to invest in education and technical skills to capitalize on these new opportunities. Adding to the call for structural change, former Deputy Minister George Mireku Duker proposed mandatory Community Development Agreements (CDAs). Duker argued that the current voluntary corporate social responsibility model is insufficient, suggesting that legal obligations similar to those in Sierra Leone would better define the responsibilities mining firms owe to their host communities. Traditional leaders at the dialogue expressed stern warnings regarding the 'social license' required for mining operations. The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, emphasized that this license is a recognition from traditional authorities and communities that can be withdrawn if companies fail to act responsibly. He argued that mine closures must not lead to the devastation of local livelihoods and that land reclamation should be a priority to ensure a legacy for future generations. Supporting this sentiment, Dr. Nana Kwao Adarkwa Bediako, the Gyasehene of the Apinto Divisional Stool, called on the government to empower indigenous landowners with greater control over their territories to curb irresponsible mining, citing inconsistencies in central government regulations driven by political leadership changes. Regarding the ongoing crisis of illegal mining, Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour urged the government to shift its focus from low-level miners to the more influential actors supporting the illegal gold economy. Dwumfour advocated for a 'follow the money' strategy to target financiers, equipment suppliers, and gold buyers. Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for Communications Mohammed Adams Sukparu cautioned that the galamsey fight is a long-term process that cannot be won within two years, dismissing 'shoot-to-kill' approaches as unconstitutional. The urgency of this battle was highlighted by recent law enforcement actions, including the arrest of two individuals in the Ahafo Region for illegal mining activities that damaged farmlands and polluted local water bodies. Concluding the dialogue, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim reaffirmed the government’s dedication to transparency and addressing the unresolved grievances of mining communities, such as displacement and land-use conflicts. She noted that while national economic figures often highlight the importance of mining to the GDP, these gains must translate into tangible improvements for local residents. As Ghana moves forward with formalizing small-scale mining and enhancing traceability through the Ghana Gold Board, the consensus among stakeholders remains clear: mining must be balanced against environmental sustainability and the well-being of the communities that host these vital resources.

Duncan-Williams on how 'powerful people with deep pockets’ who used to profit from Ghana's illegal gold approached him to link them to GoldBod
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Alexander Afenyo-Markin Challenges GoldBod over GH¢22 Billion Losses Amid Accusations of Political Persecution

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has intensified his scrutiny of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), announcing plans to file a parliamentary motion to investigate GH¢22 billion (approximately $1.7 billion) in financial losses linked to the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme. Citing findings from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Afenyo-Markin alleges that the program, established in 2025 under the administration of President John Mahama, has resulted in significant value leakage. He argues that the current governance structure allows GoldBod to collect transaction fees while the Bank of Ghana is forced to absorb massive financial risks and exchange-rate discrepancies. According to the Minority, these lost funds represent roughly 1.5% of Ghana’s GDP and could have been better utilized for national infrastructure, healthcare, and education. In response to these allegations, the Institute of Fiscal Policy Governance (IFPG) and GoldBod supporters have dismissed the claims as politically motivated rhetoric. The IFPG asserts that GoldBod’s 2025 audited financial statements actually demonstrate a surplus of GH5.44 billion, accusing the Minority of misleading the public by conflating the central bank's accounting with the Board's operational performance. Amidst this friction, GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi has pivoted the conversation toward long-term mining reform. Speaking at the National Mining Dialogue, Gyamfi advocated for an ‐Involve, Protect, and Expand‐ (IPE) model, emphasizing the need for greater indigenous ownership and local value retention to ensure mining communities are treated as shareholders rather than mere extraction sites. The confrontation has also taken a legalistic turn, with Afenyo-Markin warning current GoldBod executives of ‐post-regime accountability.‐ He suggested that current officials may face ‐scarier‐ bail conditions in the future, mirroring the treatment he claims is being meted out to members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). He specifically characterized the recent prosecution of NPP figures, such as former Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Bosiako (Chairman Wontumi), as a tactical distraction by the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) to mask institutional incompetence. Afenyo-Markin further credited the Minority Caucus with successfully pressuring GoldBod to reduce its transaction fees from an initial 15% down to 5%, portraying the opposition as a vital protector of the public purse. The debate over GoldBod’s effectiveness has also drawn input from civil society and religious leaders. Dr. Steve Manteaw and Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams have suggested the Board is facing fierce opposition because it has successfully blocked revenue loopholes previously exploited by illegal gold exporters. Duncan-Williams shared that foreign nationals who once profited from the illicit trade have even approached him to regain access to the sector. As Parliament prepares to resume, the Minority’s impending motion for a full inquiry into the program’s risk management and pricing structures is expected to be a major legislative flashpoint, testing the transparency of the gold sector under the current administration.

Odeneho Kwaku Appiah — Ashanti Regional Chairman, NPP, Dr Bernard Okoe Boye — Greater Accra Regional Chairman, NPP
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NPP Reorganizes for 2028 Election Bid as Okoe-Boye and COKA Secure Key Regional Chairmanships

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has successfully completed its regional executive elections across Ghana, marking a critical milestone in the party's strategic reorganization aimed at reclaiming power in the 2028 general elections. Following its defeat in 2024 to President John Mahama’s National Democratic Congress (NDC), the NPP leadership has emphasized that these internal polls are essential for revitalizing party structures and grassroots mobilization. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party's flagbearer and former Vice President, joined other party stalwarts in urging the newly elected executives to prioritize unity over individual ambitions, describing the elections as the foundation for a robust national campaign. Significant leadership shifts occurred in key regions during the August 15-16 polls. In the Greater Accra Region, former Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye secured a decisive victory over Alfred Boye, garnering 488 votes. In the Ashanti Region—a critical stronghold for the party—Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, was elected chairman after defeating Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu. Other notable victories included Ignatius Kwesi Afrifa in the Western Region and the retention of positions by incumbents like Kwame Baffoe in the Bono Region. The newly elected officers have been tasked with addressing the governance and accountability issues cited by party critics as the primary factors behind the 2024 electoral loss. A recurring theme among the new executives is the enforcement of party discipline to prevent internal friction. Ashanti Regional Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah has notably cautioned members against premature campaigning for parliamentary seats, specifically directing aspirants to stop using titles like "incoming MP" until official nominations open. This sentiment was echoed by national figures such as Boakye Agyarko, an aspiring National Chairman, who pledged to rebrand the NPP into a formidable electoral machine. Meanwhile, outgoing Greater Accra Chairman Divine Agorhom highlighted the need for better stakeholder support, admitting that a lack of collaboration with some appointees had hindered his tenure, a challenge he urged his successor to overcome through inclusive leadership. As the party prepares for its national executive elections scheduled for October 3, 2026, recent data suggests a competitive outlook for the opposition. A nationwide survey by Africa Policy Lens indicates that Dr. Bawumia holds a significant lead over potential NDC contenders in hypothetical matchups, with voter support ranging between 45.7% and 49.9%. The poll reveals that Ghanaian voters are primarily focused on personal character, job creation, and the cost of living—issues the NPP intends to center in its 2028 platform. By consolidating its internal leadership and focusing on these economic concerns, the NPP aims to present a united front to challenge the NDC’s governance in the next electoral cycle.

Sammi Awuku Denies EOCO Arrest Reports as COPEC Proposes Technical Oversight for State Contracts
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Sammi Awuku Denies EOCO Arrest Reports as COPEC Proposes Technical Oversight for State Contracts

Sammi Awuku, the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North and former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), has strongly refuted reports claiming he was arrested by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on August 15, 2026. Addressing the rumors through a video shared on August 16, Awuku clarified that he was actively participating in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) regional elections at the time of the alleged detention. His public appearance in Kumasi, alongside known NDC supporter Appiah Stadium, was intended to debunk claims that his arrest was linked to financial irregularities during his previous tenure at the NLA, which he dismissed as completely false. Amidst these discussions on accountability, Duncan Amoah, the Executive Director of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), has called for a major institutional reform of Ghana’s procurement processes. Amoah is advocating for the creation of a second parliamentary chamber composed of technical experts, academics, and professionals to scrutinize significant state contracts and public spending. This proposal follows the fallout from the AKSA Energy deal and the bribery conviction of former Tema Oil Refinery MD Asante Berko in the United States. Amoah emphasized that the current parliamentary oversight is often insufficient for complex international agreements and urged for a non-partisan investigation into procurement failures to prevent future systemic corruption. On the electoral front, political activities for the 2028 cycle are already gaining momentum. Kojo Asemanyi, a former NPP MP, has officially declared his intention to reclaim the Gomoa East parliamentary seat, which he lost to the NDC’s Desmond Degraft Paitoo in both 2020 and 2024. Asemanyi criticized the incumbent for a lack of development and stalled projects, expressing confidence that voters would return him to office. Simultaneously, Prophet Dr. Isaac Nyarko of the Grace Impartation Power Ministry International has stirred social media by issuing stern warnings to critics of President John Mahama’s administration, using a viral video to caution against negative intentions toward the current government and future voting patterns. In the broader West African region, political tensions remain high as neighboring countries navigate governance challenges. In Burkina Faso, the ruling military junta has imposed mandatory military-style 'patriotism' training on over 40 journalists, reflecting a tightening of state control amidst ongoing security threats. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, Afrobeats star Davido drew attention to the Osun State governorship elections, where early results showed his uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, leading the APC. However, the artist later deleted several politically charged tweets, including one suggesting his family would withdraw support for future presidential candidates, highlighting the complex intersection of celebrity influence and regional politics.

Ato Forson calls for technology-driven defense strategy as he hands over to Gilbert Adjei
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Mahama Administration Bolsters National Security and International Ties Through Defense Modernization and New Diplomatic Appointments

The government of President John Mahama is advancing a multi-faceted strategy to modernize Ghana's national security and strengthen its international standing. During the 50th Anniversary Thanksgiving and Graduation Service of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), military leaders were urged to shift focus toward emerging non-traditional threats, including cyber-attacks and natural disasters. Mr. Thomas Svanikier and senior clergy emphasized the need for intelligence-sharing and integrity-based leadership. This call for modernization was echoed by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who advocated for a transition from a manpower-dependent defense system to a technology-driven strategy. Speaking at a handover ceremony to Gilbert Adjei, Dr. Forson underscored that agility and intelligence are critical to addressing the evolving security landscape. On the diplomatic front, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has formally welcomed five newly designated envoys to Ghana, marking a significant step in deepening international cooperation. The new representatives include High Commissioners and Ambassadors from Nigeria (H.E. Shehu Ilu Barde), India (H.E. Surinder Bhagat), Lebanon (H.E. Fouad Khazzaka), and Australia (H.E. Keara Shaw), alongside the UNIDO Resident Representative, H.E. Emmanuel Kalenzi. Minister Ablakwa noted that these appointments provide a vital opportunity to advance mutual interests in trade, investment, and development, reflecting Ghana’s commitment to robust global partnerships. Simultaneously, the administration is focusing on internal governance and public service efficiency. Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, speaking at the 2025 Civil Service Awards, called for enhanced professionalism and innovation within the public sector. She stressed that civil servants must place citizens at the center of decision-making to ensure the effective execution of government policies. The ceremony, which named Mrs. Wilhelmina Asamoah as the Overall Best Performing Chief Director, highlighted ongoing reforms under the National Public Sector Reform Strategy intended to foster greater accountability and service delivery across all state institutions. In regional security and infrastructure developments, the Ashanti Regional Police Command has committed to increasing personnel in the Ahafo Ano South West District, pending the completion of new staff housing to ensure adequate living conditions for officers. Additionally, legal and health experts have launched a new coalition against human trafficking, advocating for a victim-centered approach that prioritizes protection over blame. Meanwhile, in the Greater Accra Region, GRIDCo has undertaken emergency repairs on a transmission tower in Ashaiman following a fuel tanker explosion. This maintenance work, which necessitated a temporary power outage, highlights the government's focus on protecting critical infrastructure and maintaining the structural integrity of national utility corridors.

President John Mahama Pledges GH¢1 Billion for Bawku Revival as Chieftaincy Leaders Assert Authority and Drive Development Goals
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President John Mahama Pledges GH¢1 Billion for Bawku Revival as Chieftaincy Leaders Assert Authority and Drive Development Goals

President John Mahama has announced a GH¢1 billion Revitalisation Fund aimed at restoring Bawku as a major commercial hub, contingent on the maintenance of peace in the region. Speaking during a citizen engagement in Bolgatanga, the President emphasized that the fund would focus on critical health and infrastructure investments, including the completion of local hospital projects. He commended traditional leaders for their role in fostering the stability necessary for displaced residents to return and for essential services to be restored, signaling a major push for economic revival in the northern conflict zones. In the Brong-Ahafo region, the traditional landscape saw a significant transition as Odeefour Ogyeamansan Boahen Korkor II was officially sworn in as the Paramount Chief of the Sunyani Traditional Area. During the ceremony at the Boahen Korkor Royal Palace, the new Sunyanimanhene issued a stern warning to divisional and sub-chiefs against the unauthorized sale and encroachment of public lands, particularly cemetery grounds. He pledged to increase monitoring efforts through the Sunyani Traditional Council to halt illegal developments and mining practices, urging local leaders to prioritize the integrity of their offices for future generations. Meanwhile, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has reaffirmed his supreme authority as the sole kingmaker within the Asante Kingdom. Addressing concerns regarding the Offinso paramountcy, the King clarified his power to enstool or remove chiefs based on his convictions, effectively quelling challenges to his leadership. His influence also extends to national environmental efforts, as the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), led by Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, recently sought his royal blessing for a nationwide sensitization campaign on the impending ban on styrofoam products to ensure compliance across the Ashanti Region. Furthering the drive for local development, the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly has launched a fundraising initiative to fast-track its 2026-2033 development plan, focusing on infrastructure and environmental sustainability. This is complemented by grassroots interventions in the Ejisu Constituency, where Member of Parliament Kwabena Boateng has donated solar-powered streetlights and sanitation equipment to Onwe and Essieninpong. Together, these national, traditional, and local initiatives reflect a multifaceted approach to governance and development as Ghana navigates its current political and social landscape.

Fair Wages pushes for Independent Public Emolument Commission to end wage disparities
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Ghana Navigates Major Institutional Reforms Spanning Cocoa Sector, Public Sector Pay, and Road Traffic Regulations

Ghana is entering a significant period of institutional restructuring as the government and various state agencies push forward landmark reforms in the cocoa sector, public sector compensation, and transport regulations. At the forefront of these changes is the COCOBOD Bill of 2026, which the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has described as the most impactful reform since 1984. According to COCOBOD CEO Dr. Randy Abbey, the new legal regime is designed to resolve long-standing financial challenges by ensuring cocoa farmers receive at least 70% of the gross Free on Board (FOB) prices. Crucially, the bill marks the end of a 32-year-old syndicated loan model, replacing it with a new financing mechanism intended to provide year-round liquidity and boost domestic value addition without the burden of crop collateralization. Parallel to these economic shifts, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has commenced intensive stakeholder engagements to establish the Independent Public Emoluments Commission (IPEC). This proposed commission will replace the existing Act 737 and seeks to create a fairer, more sustainable compensation framework to resolve persistent wage disparities across the public sector. During a two-day consultation involving over 50 labor organizations, including the Trades Union Congress (TUC), FWSC CEO Dr. George Smith-Graham emphasized that IPEC represents a fundamental overhaul of compensation management rather than a simple name change. TUC Secretary-General Joshua Ansah has voiced support for the initiative but maintains that Organised Labour must remain fully involved to ensure the reforms are holistic rather than piecemeal. In the transportation sector, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) are implementing a new road traffic regulatory framework that introduces a distinct licensing regime for commercial drivers. Kwame Koduah Atuahene, the NRSA’s Director of Regulations, Inspections, and Compliance, explained that the updated system moves away from a universal license, instead requiring specialized training for commercial drivers and motorcycle riders to enhance professionalism and safety. Furthermore, the NRSA has clarified that motorists have the legal right to record interactions with police during traffic stops, asserting that such documentation can serve as admissible evidence in court to ensure accountability and transparency. Collectively, these legislative and policy updates reflect a broader push by the administration to modernize key pillars of the Ghanaian economy and public service. While the COCOBOD reforms aim to secure the livelihoods of farmers and the stability of the cocoa industry, the IPEC and road traffic initiatives focus on industrial harmony and public safety. As these bills move through Parliament and implementation phases, the government and state agencies continue to stress the importance of stakeholder cooperation to ensure these reforms achieve their intended long-term impact on national development.

Global Political Volatility: Zambia Election Tensions, Cameroon's Governance Crisis, and Escalating Russia-Ukraine Warfare
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Global Political Volatility: Zambia Election Tensions, Cameroon's Governance Crisis, and Escalating Russia-Ukraine Warfare

The international political landscape is currently marked by significant instability, ranging from electoral disputes in Southern Africa to governance concerns in Central Africa and intensified aerial warfare in Eastern Europe. In Zambia, the presidential election involving over 8.7 million voters has been marred by reports of intimidation, abductions, and violence. International observer missions, including those from the European Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), have expressed deep concern over the credibility of the process. The electoral commission was forced to temporarily halt the vote count due to security threats but has since resumed, with President Hakainde Hichilema seeking a second term against challenger Brian Mundubile amidst calls for political parties to de-escalate inflammatory rhetoric. Simultaneously, Cameroon is facing a potential governance crisis as the world’s oldest head of state, 93-year-old President Paul Biya, remains in Europe following what was intended to be a brief stay. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, has not returned to the country in two months, sparking intense speculation regarding his health and the legality of his continued rule. While government officials insist that the President remains active in decision-making—noting a recent military reshuffle conducted from abroad—opposition figures like Samuel Hiram Iyodi have questioned whether a vacancy in the presidency exists. This prolonged absence follows a disputed eighth-term victory in 2023 that was already clouded by accusations of electoral fraud and civil unrest. On the global stage, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has reached a new peak of aerial intensity. Russian officials reported the largest-scale Ukrainian drone attack of the year, involving 822 drones, with approximately 600 targeting the capital, Moscow. The strikes hit a warehouse belonging to the online retailer Wildberries, resulting in multiple injuries. In a swift retaliation, Russian missile and drone strikes across 13 Ukrainian regions, including Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia, resulted in at least seven deaths and dozens of injuries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the severity of these attacks, noting that the conflict has transitioned into a predominantly aerial confrontation with significant impacts on civilian infrastructure on both sides. These developing stories underscore a period of heightened geopolitical and internal tension. In Zambia, the upcoming announcement of results will test the nation's democratic resilience and the rule of law. In Cameroon, the continued absence of President Biya raises long-term questions about succession and stability in a country that has known only one leader for over four decades. Meanwhile, the escalation in the Russia-Ukraine war suggests a shift in military tactics that continues to bypass traditional frontlines, placing civilian populations at the center of the ongoing struggle. The international community continues to monitor these situations closely as they impact regional security and democratic standards.

A map of southern Lebanon showing towns, rivers and borders near Israel and the Golan Heights. Major towns are marked with black dots, including Sidon on the coast in the north, Nabatieh inland, Hasbaya to the east, Marjayoun slightly southwest of it, Bint Jbeil near the southern border, and Tyre and Naqoura along the Mediterranean coast. The Litani River is labelled in blue, flowing down from north and then turning abruptly and heading west to the Mediterranean Sea. The southern border with Israel is shown, and the Golan Heights lies to the southeast. An inset map in the top left highlights Lebanon’s location within the wider region, showing Beirut and the border with Syria. A scale bar indicates distances of 5km and 2 miles. Source: OpenStreetMap.
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Middle East Tensions Escalate: Israeli Strikes in Lebanon, Hamas Peace Talks in Egypt, and Iran-Qatar Diplomatic Standoff

The Middle East is currently grappling with a sharp escalation in military hostilities and complex diplomatic maneuvering across several fronts. In Southern Lebanon, a deadly series of Israeli airstrikes has claimed eleven lives, significantly undermining a June ceasefire agreement intended to reduce regional violence. Simultaneously, high-level negotiations are underway in Egypt as a Hamas delegation discusses a U.S.-backed peace plan for Gaza, while a separate diplomatic row has erupted between Iran and Qatar over the alleged detention of Iranian fighter pilots. The Israeli strikes in Southern Lebanon, specifically targeting a residence in the town of Ansar where displaced families were living, resulted in the deaths of eleven people, including three children and two women. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) defended the operation, stating it targeted a Hezbollah commander in response to an attack that had previously injured Israeli soldiers. However, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the actions as a direct assault on civilians. Hezbollah has dismissed Israeli claims regarding the use of human shields, asserting that the strikes were a deliberate escalation. This incident marks one of the deadliest days since the ceasefire was established, casting a shadow over future negotiations originally slated for September. In Egypt, the political landscape is shifting as a Hamas delegation, led by Khalil al-Hayya, met with Egyptian intelligence chief Hassan Rashad in El-Alamein. The discussions centered on a 15-point roadmap introduced by U.S. President Trump, which includes provisions for Hamas's disarmament and a structured withdrawal of forces. While Hamas has expressed a commitment to the framework, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the plan in its current form, insisting on the full disarmament of Hamas before any military withdrawal. These talks are viewed as a critical step toward addressing ceasefire violations and preparing for upcoming diplomatic engagements with U.S. envoy Jared Kushner. Further complicating regional stability is a developing crisis between Iran and Qatar. Iranian Brigadier General Mohammad Bagherzadeh has formally requested the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to facilitate the release of three Iranian pilots allegedly held by Qatar for six months. The pilots were reportedly captured after their fighter jets were downed during the early stages of the U.S.-Iran war. While the remains of a fourth pilot have been returned to Iran, Qatar has firmly denied the capture of the surviving airmen. Qatari officials maintain that they acted in defense of their airspace and that the pilots failed to respond to contact attempts, leading to an ongoing diplomatic impasse as both nations present conflicting accounts of the event.

Lands Minister Reports Loss of 8,900 Hectares to Illegal Mining as Tano North Chiefs Petition President Mahama
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Lands Minister Reports Loss of 8,900 Hectares to Illegal Mining as Tano North Chiefs Petition President Mahama

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has revealed that Ghana has lost approximately 8,900 hectares of forest reserves to illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. This staggering loss, equivalent to about 12,500 football fields, was disclosed during a policy dialogue with the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education in Accra. The disclosure comes as the government acknowledges significant hurdles in its attempts to curb the menace, particularly regarding the successful prosecution of offenders who continue to exploit the nation's natural resources. The environmental crisis has sparked a direct appeal from traditional authorities in the Tano North Municipality of the Ahafo Region. The chiefs have formally petitioned President John Mahama to take immediate action against rampant galamsey operations that have devastated local forests and severely polluted the Tano River. The traditional leaders expressed deep disappointment over the ineffective response from state agencies, detailing instances where local residents and chiefs apprehended illegal miners only for the police to release them shortly after. Member of Parliament Dr. Gideon Boako has joined the chiefs in their call for accountability, praising their efforts to protect the community's ecological heritage. He emphasized the need for a united front against not only the miners on the ground but also the financial backers who sustain these illegal operations. As the scale of forest loss continues to rise, the petition to President Mahama highlights an urgent need for a more robust enforcement strategy that ensures perpetrators face the full rigors of the law to prevent further destruction of Ghana's water sources and forest reserves.

Archbishop Duncan-Williams Warns of 'Powerful Forces' Opposing Gold Sector Reforms; Calls for Prayers for GoldBod
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Archbishop Duncan-Williams Warns of 'Powerful Forces' Opposing Gold Sector Reforms; Calls for Prayers for GoldBod

Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the Founder and General Overseer of Action Chapel International, has issued a stark warning regarding the integrity of Ghana’s gold sector, calling for national prayer for the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod). During a recent church service, the Archbishop revealed that the institution is currently under siege by a "very powerful movement" of well-established individuals who are resistant to new regulatory measures. These interests, which have historically profited from the unregulated gold trade, are allegedly seeking ways to manipulate legal channels now that stricter controls on illegal purchases are being enforced. The Archbishop emphasized that the spiritual and physical well-being of GoldBod is essential to formalizing the sector and securing the nation's wealth. Developing his concerns, the Archbishop highlighted a disturbing discrepancy between official government data and the reality of the illegal gold trade. He recounted a conversation with an international figure that suggested illegal gold exports from Ghana could be as much as three times higher than what is captured in official records. This massive leakage of resources is attributed to sophisticated networks that bypass state regulatory systems. Duncan-Williams expressed deep alarm over the scale of these missing records, questioning the effectiveness of current oversight and the ability of state institutions to withstand the influence of those entrenched in the shadow economy. Central to the Archbishop's message was the devastating impact of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which he described as a direct threat to the future of Ghana's children. He criticized the persistent politicization of law enforcement, noting that political interests often paralyze the state's ability to act against environmental destruction. By prioritizing short-term political gains over environmental stewardship, the Archbishop warned that the country is risking its vital water bodies and farmlands. He lamented that the fear of political repercussions often hinders security agencies from enforcing mining laws against influential actors, leaving natural resources vulnerable to exploitation. In his concluding remarks, Archbishop Duncan-Williams urged the nation to move beyond rhetoric and engage in decisive action backed by intercession. He maintained that the protection of Ghana's natural resources is not just an economic or political issue, but a moral imperative for the survival of future generations. As the government continues its efforts to formalize the gold trade, the Archbishop called on Ghanaians to pray for the courage of regulators and for a national awakening regarding environmental protection. The message serves as a reminder that without a unified front against powerful vested interests, the country’s environmental heritage and economic stability remain in significant jeopardy.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Signs Ghana-Netherlands Pact to Combat Illicit Drug Trafficking
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Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Signs Ghana-Netherlands Pact to Combat Illicit Drug Trafficking

Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has signed a landmark Letter of Intent with the Dutch Minister of Justice and Security, D.M. Van Weel, to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the fight against illicit drugs and organized crime. The agreement, formalized during an official diplomatic visit to Ghana, establishes a comprehensive framework for both nations to collaborate on dismantling criminal networks and disrupting the global drug trade. This partnership is designed to provide global leadership in addressing the evolving threats posed by narcotic trafficking, which continues to challenge national security and social stability. The new agreement builds directly upon the principles established in the Accra Call to Action, a regional initiative aimed at fostering international synergy against transnational crime. By focusing on the disruption of cocaine and synthetic drug markets, the collaboration seeks to address the severe impacts of illicit trade on public health, the rule of law, and human rights. Both ministers emphasized that the illicit drug trade is not merely a domestic issue but a global crisis that requires integrated intelligence sharing and operational coordination between sovereign states. During the signing ceremony, Minister Ablakwa underscored the necessity of genuine international cooperation to eliminate the criminal syndicates that exploit both Ghanaian and Dutch territories. He highlighted that the protection of communities and the security of a safer future for the youth remain the primary drivers of this diplomatic effort. By targeting the financial and logistical infrastructure of drug traffickers, the two countries aim to create a hostile environment for criminal enterprises, thereby safeguarding the economic and social fabric of their respective populations. As Ghana continues to bolster its international security profile under the current administration, this pact marks a significant step in enhancing the country's law enforcement capabilities through Dutch expertise and resources. Moving forward, the Letter of Intent is expected to pave the way for increased joint operations, technical training, and information exchange between Ghana’s security agencies and their counterparts in the Netherlands. This strategic alignment reaffirms Ghana’s commitment to being a proactive partner in the global effort to secure maritime and land borders against the scourge of narcotics.