The Future of Ghana Depends on Smarter Urban Development -KOANS CEO

Prosper Kay
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The Future of Ghana Depends on Smarter Urban Development -KOANS CEO

Story By: Felix Ernest Odamtten / Faisal Mustapha Muhammad

As Ghana continues to grapple with devastating floods that claim lives, destroy businesses, and displace families almost every rainy season, renewed attention is being directed toward the country’s urban planning and housing development policies. For Mr. Kofi Anokye, Chief Executive Officer of Koans Estate, the flooding crisis is not simply a consequence of heavy rainfall but the result of years of poor planning, weak enforcement, and unsustainable development.

In an exclusive interview with Felix Ernest Odamtten / Faisal Mustapha Muhammad, Mr. Anokye argued that recurring floods have become one of the greatest threats to Ghana’s urban growth, warning that unless decisive action is taken, the economic and social costs will continue to rise with every passing year.

According to him, inadequate drainage infrastructure remains one of the principal causes of flooding across the country. He noted that drains are often poorly designed, poorly maintained, or unable to accommodate the increasing volume of stormwater generated by rapid urban expansion.

He further identified indiscriminate disposal of refuse into drainage channels, uncontrolled construction activities, encroachment on waterways, and weak enforcement of planning regulations as major contributors to the persistent flooding that affects many communities.

“The floods we experience today are largely preventable,” Mr. Anokye said. “When cities expand without proper planning and environmental responsibility, nature eventually responds. Flooding is the price society pays for ignoring sound development principles.”

The Chief Executive explained that the real estate sector has suffered significantly from recurring floods. Residential properties are damaged, roads and essential infrastructure deteriorate rapidly, and investors become increasingly reluctant to commit resources to communities perceived as high risk locations.

He added that homeowners also bear enormous financial burdens through expensive repairs, rising maintenance costs, declining property values, and the emotional distress associated with repeated flood disasters.

Mr. Anokye believes estate developers have a critical responsibility in reversing this trend. Developers, he stressed, must go beyond constructing houses by integrating resilient drainage systems, preserving natural waterways, and complying fully with planning regulations throughout every stage of development.

While acknowledging that Ghana possesses reasonable building regulations, he maintained that the greatest challenge lies in enforcement. He called for stronger institutional oversight, greater accountability, and uncompromising compliance to ensure that existing laws achieve their intended purpose.

“Regulations without enforcement cannot protect lives,” he emphasized. “Every approved development must meet environmental standards, because one poorly planned project can expose an entire community to disaster.”

Discussing infrastructure, Mr. Anokye described efficient drainage systems as indispensable components of every housing development. Proper drainage, he noted, safeguards human lives, protects valuable investments, and enhances the long term sustainability of residential communities.

He urged government to immediately intensify nationwide desilting exercises, modernize drainage networks, remove illegal structures obstructing waterways, enforce planning laws consistently, and strengthen environmental sanitation education among citizens.

On construction within waterways and flood-prone zones, Mr. Anokye expressed an uncompromising position. He argued that such developments should be prohibited entirely because no economic gain can justify exposing lives and public infrastructure to avoidable danger.

Recognizing the scale of investment required, he advocated stronger public private partnerships capable of mobilizing finance, engineering expertise, innovative technologies, and long-term maintenance strategies for modern urban drainage systems across Ghana.

For prospective homebuyers, Mr. Anokye advised exercising due diligence before purchasing property. He encouraged buyers to verify land ownership documents, investigate the flood history of prospective locations, assess drainage infrastructure, and work only with reputable developers committed to responsible planning.

Looking ahead, he called for comprehensive urban planning supported by sustained investment in resilient infrastructure, environmental conservation, effective land-use management, and continuous public awareness campaigns that encourage responsible environmental practices.

“Our cities must be designed not only for today’s population but for future generations,” Mr. Anokye concluded. “Flood resilience is an investment in national development, economic stability, and the protection of human life.”

As climate change continues to intensify extreme weather events worldwide, Mr. Kofi Anokye’s message resonates far beyond Ghana’s real estate industry. His appeal underscores a growing consensus among development experts that sustainable planning, responsible construction, effective governance, and collective public action are indispensable if Ghana is to build safer, more resilient cities capable of withstanding the environmental challenges of the future.

Linda Ocloo Visits Flood Victims, Promises Hope and Recovery

Prosper Kay
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Linda Ocloo Visits Flood Victims, Promises Hope and Recovery

Story by: Felix Ernest Odamtten & Muhammad Faisal Mustapha….

The devastating floods that swept across southern Ghana have once again exposed the enormous human and economic cost of climate related disasters, leaving thousands of families displaced and entire communities struggling to rebuild their lives. Yet amid the widespread destruction, moments of compassionate leadership have emerged as powerful reminders that governance is measured not only by policy but by presence during a nation’s darkest hours.

At the centre of Greater Accra’s emergency response has been the Regional Minister and Member of Parliament for Shai-Osudoku, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, who joined officers of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) on the frontlines to distribute relief items directly to flood victims. Rather than observing events from a distance, she stood beside affected residents, sharing their grief while overseeing the delivery of urgently needed assistance.

The scenes witnessed across the region were heartbreaking. Families who only days earlier enjoyed the security of their homes suddenly found themselves without shelter, possessions or livelihoods. Children were forced into temporary accommodation while many parents faced the painful uncertainty of beginning life again from almost nothing.

For countless survivors, the floods represented more than a natural disaster. They marked the loss of treasured memories, years of hard work and, for some, the unimaginable grief of losing loved ones. Across affected communities, hope became as essential as food, shelter and medical care.

Speaking during relief operations, Hon. Linda Ocloo conveyed a message of solidarity that resonated deeply with victims. “Witnessing the pain, loss and uncertainty on the faces of our people is profoundly heartbreaking. To every family that has lost a loved one, a home, a livelihood or cherished possessions, please know that you are not alone. Government stands with you, and together we shall rebuild stronger communities.”

Her reassurance reflects the broader humanitarian response directed by the administration of John Dramani Mahama, which authorised the immediate release of emergency resources from the national Contingency Fund to accelerate relief operations and support vulnerable households across the affected regions.

According to the latest Situation Report issued by the National Disaster Management Organisation, flash floods and overflowing rivers inundated communities across seven regions following nearly thirteen hours of torrential rainfall between 29 June and 2 July 2026. The scale of the emergency quickly overwhelmed local response capacities, prompting coordinated rescue operations involving multiple state institutions.

NADMO’s Emergency Operations Centre received more than 1,200 distress calls as rescue teams issued shelter in place advisories, conducted evacuations and transported vulnerable residents to safer locations. The latest official assessment indicates that 89,736 people from 17,948 households have been displaced, while seven people remain missing and thirty-four lives have tragically been lost.

These statistics tell only part of the story. Behind every number lies a family coping with grief, uncertainty and the difficult task of rebuilding. The floods have once again highlighted the vulnerability of rapidly expanding urban settlements, inadequate drainage infrastructure and communities situated within flood prone zones.

Emergency experts increasingly warn that climate change is intensifying extreme weather events across West Africa, demanding a shift from reactive disaster management toward long term resilience planning. Investments in drainage systems, improved land use enforcement, early warning technologies and community preparedness are becoming indispensable components of sustainable urban governance.

For Hon. Linda Ocloo, the responsibility extends beyond emergency relief. She has reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with NADMO and all relevant government agencies to restore hope, rebuild damaged communities and strengthen preparedness measures capable of reducing future disaster risks across Greater Accra.

“Our responsibility does not end with emergency assistance,” she declared. “We remain fully committed to restoring hope, rebuilding lives and strengthening our collective preparedness so that Greater Accra becomes safer, stronger and more resilient for future generations.”

The response unfolding across Greater Accra demonstrates that effective disaster management depends upon coordinated leadership, responsive institutions and compassionate engagement with affected communities. While infrastructure can be reconstructed, rebuilding public confidence requires visible leadership that places people at the centre of national recovery efforts.

As Ghana confronts one of its most severe flooding emergencies in recent years, the determination displayed by rescue personnel, volunteers, local authorities and government officials offers a powerful reminder that resilience is ultimately built through unity. The road to recovery will undoubtedly be long, but with sustained commitment, accountable governance and national solidarity, the country can transform this tragedy into an opportunity to build safer communities and a more disaster resilient future.

The Leadership Driving Ghana’s National Security Transformation

Prosper Kay
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The Leadership Driving Ghana’s National Security Transformation

Story By: Felix Ernest Odamtten / Muhammad Faisal Mustapha

National security is increasingly recognised as one of the defining pillars of sustainable development, democratic governance and economic resilience. Across Africa and beyond, governments are reassessing how they protect citizens, critical infrastructure and national institutions amid rapidly evolving threats ranging from terrorism and organised crime to cyberattacks and economic sabotage. In Ghana, this transformation has elevated the importance of strategic coordination at the highest levels of the security architecture.

At the centre of this evolving landscape is COP Osman Abdul Razak, Ghana’s National Security Coordinator, whose role reflects a broader shift from conventional policing towards intelligence led, multi agency national security management. His responsibilities extend beyond law enforcement to integrating intelligence, coordinating institutions and strengthening national preparedness against emerging security challenges.

Security experts increasingly argue that modern national security is no longer measured solely by the ability to respond to crises after they occur. Instead, it is defined by anticipation, prevention, intelligence gathering and institutional coordination. These principles have become central to Ghana’s contemporary security approach as government agencies seek to improve operational efficiency and strategic decision making.

As National Security Coordinator, COP Osman Abdul Razak occupies a position that requires balancing operational effectiveness with constitutional governance, ensuring that security institutions function cohesively while respecting democratic principles, the rule of law and civil liberties. This delicate balance remains essential to maintaining public confidence in state institutions.

International investors consistently identify political stability and public security as major determinants of investment decisions. A secure operating environment lowers business risks, protects investments and enhances economic competitiveness. Ghana’s relatively stable security environment has therefore become an important component of its broader economic development agenda.

The connection between national security and economic growth continues to attract increasing attention from policymakers. Stable nations generally experience stronger investor confidence, increased tourism, expanding trade opportunities and more resilient financial markets. Security, therefore, is increasingly viewed not simply as a public service but as a strategic economic asset.

Protecting critical national infrastructure has become one of the defining priorities of twenty first century security planning. Energy installations, ports, airports, communication systems, transportation networks, financial institutions and digital infrastructure require sophisticated protection against both physical and cyber threats. Coordinated security planning has consequently become indispensable.

Cybersecurity represents one of the fastest growing dimensions of national security worldwide. As governments digitise public services and economies become increasingly interconnected, cyber resilience has emerged as a strategic necessity. Preparing institutions to confront cybercrime, digital espionage, misinformation campaigns and artificial intelligence driven threats requires continuous innovation and specialised expertise.

Intelligence sharing among domestic and international security agencies has similarly become indispensable in combating transnational organised crime, terrorism, human trafficking, narcotics smuggling and financial crimes. No nation can effectively address these threats in isolation, making regional cooperation increasingly vital.

Ghana continues to strengthen collaboration with regional and international partners through intelligence exchanges, joint security operations and multilateral engagements. Such cooperation contributes not only to Ghana’s national security but also to wider peace and stability across West Africa, where cross border security challenges demand collective responses.

Leadership within national security institutions requires calm judgement, strategic foresight and disciplined decision making, particularly during periods of uncertainty. Effective coordination often occurs away from public attention, yet it remains fundamental to crisis prevention, institutional resilience and national preparedness.

Professionals within the security sector increasingly emphasise that resilience begins long before emergencies arise. Building resilient institutions involves continuous training, technological investment, scenario planning, inter agency collaboration and effective risk assessment. These measures strengthen national capacity to withstand evolving threats.

COP Osman Abdul Razak’s career reflects the growing evolution of security leadership from traditional operational command to strategic national coordination. His progression illustrates how contemporary security professionals increasingly require expertise in intelligence management, institutional collaboration, public administration and strategic planning.

Observers note that Ghana’s security architecture continues to evolve alongside global developments in homeland security, digital governance and intelligence integration. This evolution positions the country to respond more effectively to increasingly complex security environments while preserving democratic accountability and institutional integrity.

Beyond conventional security threats, governments must now address climate related emergencies, cyber disruptions, public health crises, disinformation campaigns and economic vulnerabilities. These interconnected risks require comprehensive national strategies that integrate multiple sectors into coordinated preparedness frameworks.

Security analysts frequently observe that national resilience depends not only on the strength of security agencies but also on effective cooperation between government institutions, private sector organisations, civil society and local communities. Building trust across these sectors enhances national preparedness and crisis response capabilities.

As West Africa confronts increasingly complex geopolitical and security dynamics, Ghana’s emphasis on professional coordination, intelligence led operations and institutional collaboration offers valuable lessons for the region. Strengthening governance while safeguarding national stability remains essential to sustainable development and democratic consolidation.

For international audiences, Ghana’s experience demonstrates that effective national security extends far beyond military strength or policing. It encompasses economic confidence, technological preparedness, institutional integrity, regional cooperation and the protection of democratic values that underpin long term national prosperity.

Ultimately, the responsibilities entrusted to COP Osman Abdul Razak underscore the significance of strategic leadership in an era where security challenges transcend borders and traditional definitions. As Ghana continues to modernise its national security architecture, the emphasis on professionalism, coordination, intelligence and resilience will remain indispensable in protecting citizens, strengthening democratic institutions and supporting sustainable national development.

Zoomlion MD Reaffirms Commitment to Ashanti Anti-Flood Campaign

EDALL Chronicles
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Zoomlion MD Reaffirms Commitment to Ashanti Anti-Flood Campaign

The Managing Director of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Mrs. Doris Kwekwor Adjei, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Ghana’s sanitation agenda by deploying heavy equipment, personnel and logistics to support a large-scale flood prevention and environmental sanitation exercise across the Ashanti Region.

The exercise, held on Saturday, July 4, 2026, was undertaken in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Dredge Masters Limited, the National Disaster Management Organisation, (NADMO), the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and other Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) as part of activities marking the National Sanitation Day initiative.

Speaking during the exercise, Mrs. Adjei described Zoomlion’s participation as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at protecting lives and property while promoting a cleaner and healthier environment. She expressed gratitude to God for the successful launch of the campaign and commended the leadership of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for championing environmental sanitation in the region.

She noted that the recent floods, which claimed lives and caused extensive damage in parts of the country, highlight the urgent need for collective action to keep drains free from waste and improve sanitation practices.

She extended her condolences to families who lost loved ones and sympathised with residents whose homes and businesses were affected.

Beyond desilting drains and clearing refuse, she announced that Zoomlion would also undertake fumigation exercises in flood-affected communities to minimise the risk of disease outbreaks caused by stagnant water, accumulated waste and contaminated environments.

Mrs. Adjei said the company had mobilised the required machinery and workforce to ensure the success of the operation, adding that Zoomlion remains committed to supporting similar interventions whenever called upon by government or local authorities.

She stressed that maintaining a clean environment is a shared responsibility and cannot be left solely to government institutions or waste management companies. She therefore urged residents to adopt responsible waste disposal practices and keep their surroundings clean throughout the year rather than relying on periodic cleanup campaigns.

The exercise covered several flood-prone communities across the Ashanti Region, including Airport Roundabout, Krofrom, Kaase, Asokore Mampong, Atonsu, Breman UGC, Kronum-Aboahia and sections of the Tepre River. Excavators and sanitation workers removed large volumes of silt, plastics and other waste materials from drains to improve the free flow of stormwater.

Addressing participants, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, underscored that the exercise marked the beginning of a sustained regional campaign to mitigate flooding ahead of the peak rainy season. He said inspections had revealed that many drains were heavily clogged with plastics and household refuse, identifying indiscriminate waste disposal as one of the leading causes of flooding.

He disclosed that environmental sanitation enforcement had been strengthened through the deployment of sanitation inspectors, while the region’s whistleblower reward scheme for reporting illegal dumping remains operational. He added that a number of offenders have already been prosecuted and sentenced under the law.

The Mayor of Kumasi, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, said the exercise was in line with the President’s directive for the observance of National Sanitation Day on the first Saturday of every month. He noted that intensified sanitation enforcement would begin across the metropolis on Monday, with inspections targeting homes, drains and public spaces to ensure compliance with sanitation bye-laws.

Participants expressed confidence that the collaboration between government agencies, local assemblies and Zoomlion, Dredge Masters would help reduce flooding, improve public health and strengthen environmental responsibility across the region

Ghana Association of Banks Intensifies #ShineYourEye Anti-Fraud Campaign in Tamale

Isaac Kofi Dzokpo
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Ghana Association of Banks Intensifies #ShineYourEye Anti-Fraud Campaign in Tamale

 

The Ghana Association of Banks (GAB) has successfully held the first regional roadshow under its nationwide #ShineYourEye Anti-Fraud Campaign, taking public education on fraud prevention directly to communities in the Tamale Metropolis.

The roadshow forms part of GAB’s five-month nationwide public education initiative aimed at equipping Ghanaians with the knowledge and practical tools to identify, prevent, and report fraudulent activities within the banking industry as it intensifies efforts to combat the growing threat of financial fraud.

Commencing at the Tamale Jubilee Park, the three-hour float traversed major communities including Lamashegu, Tamale Central Market, Zorgbele and Abuabo Market before returning to the Jubilee Park.

Campaign

Along the route, campaign teams engaged residents, traders, transport operators and commuters through direct interactions, educating them on common social engineering fraud schemes like identity theft, phishing, ATM fraud, among others. They were also educated on how to recognise suspicious activities and the necessary steps to protect themselves from being victims of financial crime.

Representatives from GAB, Member Banks, and Key Community Stakeholders
The exercise brought together 16 branches of member banks of GAB operating within the Tamale Metropolis.

The roadshow also received support from key stakeholders, including the Tamale Metropolitan Coordinating Director, the Presiding Member of the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly, the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Ambulance Service.

Collins Boamah - Head Of Regulatory Ethics Forensics And Special Duties At The Ghana Association Of Banks
Collins Boamah – Head of Regulatory, Ethics, Forensics and Special Duties at the Ghana Association of Banks

Addressing the event, Collins Boamah, Head of Regulatory, Ethics, Forensics, and Special Duties at the Ghana Association of Banks, emphasised the importance of public education in addressing the growing threat of fraud.

“Fraud remains one of the greatest threats to the security of our financial system, and public awareness is one of our strongest tools in combating it.

Today’s roadshow demonstrates our collective commitment to taking this education directly to the people.

Campaign

By engaging residents in their communities, answering questions, and sharing practical ways to identify and prevent fraud, we are empowering every Ghanaian to become the first line of defense against fraud. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant because preventing fraud is a shared responsibility.”

The #ShineYourEye Anti-Fraud Campaign was launched in response to the increasing sophistication of fraud, particularly social engineering scams that manipulate victims into voluntarily disclosing sensitive banking information.

Through a coordinated multi-stakeholder approach, the campaign seeks to strengthen consumer awareness, reduce fraud incidence, restore confidence in digital financial services, and encourage prompt reporting of fraudulent activity.

Campaign

A central message of the campaign is that banks will never ask customers to disclose their PIN, password or One-Time Password (OTP).

Participants of the float engaging vendors on fraud and the importance of being vigilant
Following the successful Tamale activation, the campaign will continue its regional public education efforts with the next roadshow scheduled to take place in Kumasi on 25 July 2026, as GAB and its 24-member banks deepen engagement with communities across the country.

Campaign

About the Ghana Association of Banks
GAB is the official mouthpiece and lead advocate of the 24 commercial banks in Ghana, including the Development Bank of Ghana.

The Association promotes a sound, stable, innovative and inclusive banking sector while supporting economic growth, financial sector development, consumer education and industry collaboration.

Through initiatives such as the #ShineYourEye Anti-Fraud Campaign, GAB continues to work with stakeholders to strengthen financial security and protect consumers from evolving fraud threats.

Why abandon work done on 8 regional hospitals & start 6 new projects from scratch? Is this another procurement “chop chop” scheme? ~ Dr. Ekua Amoakoh

Prosper Kay
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Why abandon work done on 8 regional hospitals & start 6 new projects from scratch? Is this another procurement “chop chop” scheme? ~ Dr. Ekua Amoakoh

Spokesperson to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and the NPP Health Committee Spokesperson, Dr. Ekua Amoakoh, has criticised the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, over his announcement of plans to commence six new regional hospital projects, questioning why the government would pursue new projects while previously planned regional hospitals remain uncompleted.

In a Facebook post titled “PROPAGANDA VS. THE FACTS: Another Case of Procurement Chop Chop!”, Dr. Amoakoh accused the Minister of failing to acquaint himself with the official handing-over notes relating to the Ghana Priority Health Infrastructure Project, popularly known as Agenda 111.

“It is deeply embarrassing when a sitting Minister of Health makes grand public announcements without reviewing the official handing over notes of the very program he is supposed to steer,” she wrote, adding that “to announce a ‘new plan’ to build 6 regional hospitals while attempting to reduce the massive Agenda 111 initiative to mere propaganda is a gross display of administrative cluelessness.”

Agenda 111 regional hospital preparations

According to Dr. Amoakoh, documentation contained in the Agenda 111 handing-over notes shows that the regional hospital component of the project was initiated and substantially prepared under the previous Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia administration.

She stated that “the construction of these regional hospitals is entirely the initiative and blueprint of the Nana Addo/Bawumia NPP government.”

Providing details, she said five proposed 160-bed regional hospitals for Ahafo (Goaso), Bono East (Techiman), Western North (Sefwi Wiawso), North East (Nalerigu), and Savannah (Damongo) had already undergone “comprehensive architectural/engineering designs and tendering processes” before the change in government.

According to her, the procurement processes for those facilities were “only placed on hold due to IMF foreign borrowing restrictions, awaiting final Ministry of Finance funding arrangements.”

She further asserted that funding arrangements for two additional regional hospitals in the Oti Region and the Western Region (Takoradi) were already being supervised by the Ministry of Health before the transition.

Questions over procurement

Dr. Amoakoh questioned the rationale behind the Minister’s proposal to initiate six new regional hospitals instead of continuing with the projects already prepared.

She asked: “Why is the Minister so eager to abandon all the meticulous progress already made on these Agenda 111 hospitals?”

She further alleged that the move could be aimed at terminating existing arrangements in order to award fresh contracts.

“Is he setting the stage to cancel existing arrangements just to grant brand-new contracts for the sake of ‘procurement chop chop’?” she questioned.

References LHIMS cancellation

The NPP health spokesperson also referred to the cancellation of the Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS), arguing that it raises concerns over procurement decisions within the health sector.

She wrote: “The recent cancellation of the Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS) is fresh on our minds. Why cancel a functional system, only to turn around and award a new health management system for an extra $50 million? Who benefits from these costly, sudden shifts?”

Addressing the Minister directly, Dr. Amoakoh stated: “You are the steward of our health sector. You are not there to create overnight procurement millionaires or enrich yourself by canceling existing contracts just to re-award them for a cut!”

NDC healthcare promises

Beyond the regional hospital issue, Dr. Amoakoh also criticised the governing NDC over what she described as unfulfilled healthcare commitments.

She claimed the government’s promise to construct 620 Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds by the end of 2025 had not materialised.

According to her, “It vanished into thin air, exposing their complete inability to execute even a fraction of the lies they told to secure power.”

She also accused the government of failing to honour its promise of automatic postings for newly qualified nurses.

“Instead of the seamless deployment they weaponized on the campaign trail, our qualified nurses have been left stranded in a state of administrative limbo, dealing with a broken system that offers zero clarity on their future,” she stated.

Calls for competence

Dr. Amoakoh maintained that Ghanaians deserve competent leadership in the health sector and insisted that existing Agenda 111 preparations should not be discarded.

She argued that if the Minister “cannot tell the difference between starting a new project and simply inheriting a meticulously prepared, fully tendered NPP blueprint” and “cannot fulfill his party’s own basic promises,” then “he has no business running our health sector.”

She further urged the Minister to “Do the basic reading, or spare us the incompetence and step aside,” while attaching a video of the Trede District Hospital, which she claimed was completed in less than 24 months but remains non-operational “after 19 months of the mess that is the Akandoh led ministry of health.”

Captain Smart Says Critics Misinterpreted Apostle Amoako Attah’s Health Remarks

Prosper Kay
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Captain Smart Says Critics Misinterpreted Apostle Amoako Attah’s Health Remarks

Popular Ghanaian broadcaster Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, has broken his silence on attacks on Apostle Francis Amoako Attah regarding comments on his health, insisting that the clergyman’s remarks have been widely misunderstood.

Speaking on his television programme, Captain Smart recounted a private encounter with the founder of Parliament Chapel International, saying the Apostle personally visited him on January 1, 2026 and told him that someone had prophesied that he (Captain Smart) would die.

According to Captain Smart, Apostle Amoako Attah told him that someone had prophesied about his death but encouraged him to remain calm, assuring him that within three months, the person behind the prophecy would rather die before him.

“For Amoako Attah to move his car on the 1st of January to visit me, it means a lot,” Captain Smart said.

“He told me somebody gave a prophecy that I would die, but he said let’s give ourselves three months—the person would die and leave you.”

Captain Smart said he had always understood the Apostle’s message and questioned why many people had interpreted it differently.

“People kept asking me whether I had heard what Apostle Amoako Attah said. They didn’t understand what he meant. If you understand what he said, you will know exactly what he was talking about,” he stated.

The outspoken presenter also disclosed that after the visit, he travelled to see his grandfather, where he was warmly received and even enjoyed a meal of ampesi, an experience he said reflected that he was in good health.

Captain Smart has consistently rejected the attacks on Apostle Amoako Atta, maintaining that should people understood what the man of God was saying, they would appreciate his message and.

The clarification is expected to quell ongoing speculation surrounding his health and his long-standing relationship with Apostle Francis Amoako Attah, whom he described as someone who has shown him genuine concern over the years.

Information gathered later indicated that since 2024, Blessed Godsbrain Smart has not received a physical visit from Francis Amoako Attah at his residence, contrary to impressions created by people.

The clarification has since prompted Captain Smart to come out more firmly to address the growing speculation, insisting that critics were drawing conclusions that, in his view, do not reflect the full context of his interaction with the Apostle.

He maintained that the essence of his earlier remarks was being distorted and argued that attempts to frame the situation as evidence of inconsistency or contradiction were unfounded.

According to him, the renewed commentary circulating on social media and in public discourse has unfairly cast doubt on the credibility and intentions of Apostle Amoako Attah, something he strongly rejects.

Captain Smart reiterated that his decision to publicly explain the matter was aimed at correcting what he described as misinterpretations and defending the Apostle against what he considers unnecessary attacks linked to his health-related remarks.

He added that his relationship with the man of God remains intact, stressing that his comments were never intended to fuel controversy but to clarify the context in which the alleged prophecy was shared.

Italian Boy Lounge Closed Following FDA Raid Over Suspected Illicit Drugs

Attractive Mustapha
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Italian Boy Lounge Closed Following FDA Raid Over Suspected Illicit Drugs

Two staff members have been arrested after the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) reportedly raided Italian Boy Lounge, a popular nightclub at Nungua Kantamanto in Accra, over the alleged possession of illicit drugs.

According to a report by MyJoyOnline, the operation was carried out on the evening of Thursday, July 3, 2026, while the nightclub was being prepared to open for business.

During the exercise, authorities reportedly discovered and seized substances suspected to be illicit drugs. The exact nature and quantity of the substances have not yet been disclosed.

The two staff members were taken into custody to assist with ongoing investigations, while the nightclub has since been shut down by the authorities.

The FDA is yet to issue an official statement detailing the items retrieved or the circumstances surrounding the operation.

The raid forms part of ongoing efforts by the FDA, in collaboration with other state agencies, to curb the abuse and distribution of illicit substances in entertainment venues and other public spaces.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing, and further updates are expected as the FDA releases additional information.

Lauren Akosia Shines: BBC “Mr Loverman” Star Earns Ghana Music Awards USA Nod

Osafo Daniel
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Lauren Akosia Shines: BBC “Mr Loverman” Star Earns Ghana Music Awards USA Nod

Multitalented British-Ghanaian actress and musical artist Lauren Akosia is rapidly cementing her status as one of the UK’s most exciting cross-industry talents. Following her breakout television success, Akosia has officially been nominated for Best International Act of the Year at the upcoming Ghana Music Awards USA, solidifying her explosive rise in the global entertainment landscape.

The prestigious nomination follows the massive success of her latest track, “Let It Go”, an infectious Afro-house anthem that bridges her rich West African heritage with contemporary UK sounds. The track has earned widespread acclaim for its vibrant production, powerhouse vocals, and cross-cultural appeal, capturing the attention of international tastemakers and music critics alike.

Akosia’s musical triumph runs parallel to an equally stellar screen acting career. Audiences recently captivated by her performance as Carmelita in BBC One’s highly acclaimed drama Mr Loverman will also recognize her from her compelling role in Acorn TV’s hit crime drama Whitstable Pearl. An alumna of the prestigious Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts and the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain, Akosia seamlessly navigates the worlds of high-caliber dramatic acting, international voiceovers, and boundary-pushing music.

Lauren Akosia Gma Usa
Lauren Akosia Gma Usa

Her unique position as a cultural bridge-builder was further highlighted when she placed as a top-10 global finalist representing the UK and the diaspora in the Africa Monologue Challenge, an elite pan-African acting competition.

“I am incredibly honored by the recognition from the Ghana Music Awards USA,” says Akosia. “Whether through the characters I portray on screen or the rhythms of my music, my goal has always been to tell authentic stories that resonate globally. To see the international diaspora embrace ‘Let It Go’ is a beautiful validation of that vision.”

With a string of upcoming television projects, corporate voiceover campaigns, and highly anticipated new music in the pipeline, Lauren Akosia is undeniably an artist to watch as she expands her footprint across the UK, Africa, and the United States.

About Lauren Akosia

Lauren Akosia is a British-Ghanaian actress, singer-songwriter, and voiceover artist based in London. Celebrated for her versatile talent across television, theater, and music, she actively blends her dual-heritage background into compelling, world-class art.

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Phesten Captures Ghana’s Vibrant Street Culture on New Single ‘Abonten’

Osafo Daniel
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Phesten Captures Ghana’s Vibrant Street Culture on New Single ‘Abonten’

Rising Ghanaian singer Phesten is making a bold statement with his latest single, “Abonten,” a vibrant anthem that celebrates the energy, freedom, and community spirit found in Ghana’s streets.

Derived from the Akan word meaning “outside,” Abonten carries a meaning that extends far beyond its literal translation. In Ghanaian culture, it represents the spaces where friendships are built, music comes alive, unforgettable memories are made, and everyday life unfolds. Phesten channels this familiar experience into a record that reflects the heartbeat of contemporary Ghana.

Blending infectious rhythms with an uplifting atmosphere, “Abonten” arrives at a time when the country’s social scene is thriving. From lively beach parties and roadside gatherings to football celebrations and bustling nightlife, the song perfectly captures the excitement of choosing connection, celebration, and good company over staying indoors.

More than just a feel-good record, “Abonten” serves as an introduction to Phesten’s artistry. The emerging singer demonstrates an ability to create music that feels deeply rooted in Ghanaian identity while carrying a universal appeal capable of connecting with audiences far beyond the country’s borders.

With “Abonten,” Phesten invites listeners into his world—one where culture, music, and shared experiences come together in celebration. As he continues to carve out his place in Ghana’s music scene, the single marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for one of the country’s promising new voices.

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