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Ghanaian Swimmer Yamin Boamah Sets 10 Personal Bests in Canada

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Ghanaian Swimmer Yamin Boamah Sets 10 Personal Bests in Canada

Twelve year old Ghanaian swimmer Yamin Amankwah Boamah delivered an impressive performance at the Vancouver Island Regional (VIR) Championship held from January 30 to February 1, 2026, setting 10 new personal bests across multiple events at the three day competition.

The young swimming prodigy, who was the youngest swimmer at the Africa Aquatics Zone 2 Championships held in Ghana last year, continued his remarkable progress in the pool at the championship staged at Saanich Commonwealth Place in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. His performances across freestyle, medley, butterfly and backstroke events demonstrated significant improvement in technique, endurance and competitive readiness.

Yamin’s most notable achievement came in the 1500 metre freestyle, where he recorded a new personal best time of 19:53.83, representing a dramatic improvement of 40.42 seconds compared to his previous time. The substantial time drop in this grueling long distance event highlights his enhanced aerobic capacity and race management skills.

The Monterey Middle School student competed in nine other events during the championship, including the 100 metre freestyle, 200 metre individual medley, 200 metre medley, 400 metre medley, 400 metre freestyle, 200 metre freestyle, 200 metre butterfly and 100 metre backstroke. He achieved personal best times in each event, showcasing his versatility across different swimming disciplines and distances.

Yamin first gained international attention at the 2025 Africa Aquatics Zone 2 Swimming Championships, where he competed as the youngest participant in the continental competition. Despite his age, he clinched bronze in the 1500 metre freestyle and helped Ghana secure silver as part of the 4×200 metre freestyle relay team, demonstrating his ability to compete against older, more experienced swimmers.

The Vancouver Island Regional Championship attracts competitive swimmers from across British Columbia and serves as an important qualifying meet for provincial and national championships in Canada. Yamin’s participation in the highly competitive field provided valuable international exposure and experience against swimmers from well established Canadian swimming programs.

His consistent improvement across all 10 events suggests a comprehensive training regimen focused on developing all aspects of competitive swimming. The ability to set personal bests across such a wide range of distances and strokes, from the explosive 100 metre sprint events to the endurance demanding 1500 metre freestyle, indicates exceptional athletic development and coaching.

Yamin’s performances further cement his status as one of the most promising young swimmers representing Ghana and position him as a talent to watch on the international stage. His achievements at age 12 suggest significant potential for future success in continental and global youth swimming competitions.

The young swimmer’s success comes at a time when Ghana is working to develop its aquatic sports infrastructure and competitive swimming programs. His international achievements provide inspiration for young Ghanaian swimmers and highlight the importance of continued investment in training facilities, coaching expertise and competitive opportunities for the country’s aquatic athletes.

As Yamin continues his development, his performances will be closely monitored by Ghana Swimming Association officials and international swimming observers tracking emerging talent in African aquatic sports. His ability to compete successfully in North American swimming competitions while maintaining his connection to Ghanaian swimming provides a valuable model for developing elite athletes through international training and competition exposure.

Adom Otchere Condemns Airport Renaming as Political Score Settling

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Adom Otchere Condemns Airport Renaming as Political Score Settling

Veteran journalist Paul Adom Otchere has criticized the government’s proposal to rename Kotoka International Airport, describing the move as a politically motivated effort to settle historical scores rather than a genuine policy decision driven by national interest.

Speaking on Saturday, February 7, 2026, during Joy FM’s flagship Newsfile programme, the former Board Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) questioned the timing and purpose behind the proposal, insisting that it has little connection to addressing the country’s pressing challenges. Adom Otchere argued that the renaming initiative centers on settling political grievances rather than advancing national development objectives.

The journalist stated that the issue was never presented to voters during the election campaign, making its sudden emergence highly questionable. He emphasized that if the governing party truly believed in the importance of renaming the airport, it would have made its position clear before seeking public support during the campaign period.

According to Adom Otchere, the proposal represents an attempt to revise historical narratives and sanctify the legacy of Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, through post election acts of historical retribution. He warned that decisions driven by political rivalry rather than national consensus could deepen divisions and shift attention away from urgent economic and social challenges facing the country.

The Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, announced on February 3, 2026, that the government plans to change the name of Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport through legislation to be laid before Parliament by the Minister for Transport during the current session. Ayariga stated that the change would recognize the Ga people who provided land for the airport and correct a historical oversight.

Adom Otchere revealed during the Newsfile discussion that when he served on the GACL board, the idea of renaming the airport after former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan was considered. He explained that the board thought about the importance of global branding at international airports and how Ghana’s principal aviation gateway should project the country’s image to the world. However, the proposal was rejected by the former president, who questioned the rationale behind focusing on renaming rather than completing critical airport infrastructure projects across the country.

Defending the legacy of Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, the coup leader in whose honor the airport was renamed in 1969, Adom Otchere challenged the notion of purely good or bad historical figures. He insisted that Kotoka did good things and deserves recognition, just as Nkrumah had blemishes despite his contributions to Ghana’s independence and Pan African movement. He described Kotoka as a rescuer from what he characterized as Nkrumah’s despotism.

The proposed renaming has generated significant political disagreement and public debate across Ghana. Supporters frame the change as a necessary step to address historical injustices, arguing that naming the nation’s primary international gateway after a key figure in the 1966 coup that overthrew Nkrumah is inconsistent with Ghana’s democratic constitution. Critics warn that reopening such debates risks deepening political divisions and diverting resources from urgent development priorities.

The airport was originally opened in 1958 as Accra International Airport under President Nkrumah’s administration. In 1969, the name was changed to Kotoka International Airport under the General Kotoka Trust Act to honor Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka, who was killed on April 17, 1967, during an abortive counter coup attempt known as Operation Guitar Boy at a site that is now the airport’s forecourt.

Civil society groups including Democracy Hub and the Convention People’s Party (CPP) have previously sued at the Supreme Court to remove Kotoka from the airport’s name, arguing that honoring a military officer involved in a coup contradicts Ghana’s democratic values enshrined in the 1992 Constitution, which criminalizes unconstitutional changes of government.

Beyond the government’s proposal for Accra International Airport, other voices have suggested that if the airport is to be renamed, it should honor a prominent Ga traditional leader or personality, citing the indigenous custodianship of the land on which the airport is located. Renowned Kenyan lawyer and Pan Africanist Professor Patrick Loch Otieno Lumumba has also weighed in, suggesting the airport be named after Dr. Kwame Nkrumah instead.

Former Executive Director of the Advertising Association of Ghana, Frank Dadzie, has estimated that the proposed renaming and rebranding of Kotoka International Airport could cost between $2 million and $5 million, depending on the scope of the exercise. The cost estimate includes signage changes, branding updates, international aviation registrations, and marketing communications to inform global airlines and travel agencies.

The Minister of Transport is expected to lay the Accra International Airport Bill before Parliament during the current eight week session. Kotoka International Airport handled a record 3.1 million passengers in 2023 and remains Ghana’s only international airport, serving as a critical gateway for trade, tourism and diplomatic relations.

Activist Petitions Chief Justice for Mandatory Psychiatric Assessments of Judges

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Activist Petitions Chief Justice for Mandatory Psychiatric Assessments of Judges

A Ghanaian media practitioner and civil society activist has petitioned Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, calling for mandatory psychiatric assessments of all judges and magistrates as a measure to restore public confidence in the country’s judiciary.

In a petition dated February 4, 2026, and addressed to the Chief Justice, Ohenenana Kwaku Kyei urged the Judicial Service to institute comprehensive mental health evaluations for judges prior to appointment and at regular intervals during their tenure. The proposal seeks to introduce routine psychiatric screening as part of judicial qualification and continuing assessment processes.

Kyei cited growing public concern over judicial integrity, pointing to declining trust in the courts and perceptions of bias, corruption and inconsistent rulings in politically sensitive cases. He argued that persistent public skepticism can erode the legitimacy of the entire judicial system and weaken the social fabric that binds justice with trust.

The petition referenced World Health Organization (WHO) estimates suggesting that approximately 13 percent of Ghana’s population lives with some form of mental health disorder. Kyei argued that psychological fitness is critical in professions involving complex judgment and ethical decision making, particularly in the judiciary where decisions have far reaching consequences on individual rights and national stability.

While stressing that the proposal was not an indictment of individual judges, Kyei stated that routine psychiatric evaluations would affirm judicial competence, enable early identification of mental health challenges, and strengthen public confidence in the justice system. He emphasized that the initiative was driven by a sincere desire to strengthen Ghana’s judiciary, protect its reputation and uphold the rights of every citizen to fair and impartial adjudication.

Kyei offered to mobilize funding for the initiative, pledging to coordinate public, private and philanthropic resources to cover the cost of assessments without burdening the judiciary or state finances. The proposal includes a commitment to establish a sustainable funding mechanism that would support the implementation of the psychiatric evaluation program across all levels of the judicial hierarchy.

The office of the Chief Justice has acknowledged receipt of the petition. However, no official response has been issued regarding the proposal or whether the Judicial Service will consider implementing such assessments as part of its judicial appointment and performance evaluation processes.

Ghana’s judiciary, long regarded as a pillar of democratic stability, has in recent years faced increased scrutiny amid allegations of corruption, delays in adjudication and questions over judicial independence. Public confidence in the courts has been tested by high profile cases involving perceived bias, inconsistent rulings and concerns about external influence on judicial decision making.

Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, who was sworn in on November 17, 2025, has outlined ambitious plans to reform the judiciary and address court congestion. His initiatives include morning and afternoon court sessions, expansion of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services, and the establishment of specialized courts, including Galamsey courts dedicated to prosecuting illegal mining cases.

The Chief Justice has also emphasized the importance of judicial integrity, competence and independence in recent addresses to judges and magistrates. At the swearing in ceremony of 52 Circuit Court judges on January 30, 2026, he cautioned that public confidence in the judiciary is fragile, built over time but easily eroded, and advised judges to avoid conduct that could compromise their impartiality or create perceptions of impropriety.

The petition comes at a time when the judiciary is implementing various reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and public trust. The Judicial Service is currently revising the Rules of Court, which are expected to come into force by March 2026, and has introduced technological innovations to enhance justice delivery.

Legal experts and civil society organizations have expressed mixed reactions to the proposal for mandatory psychiatric assessments. Some argue that mental health evaluations could enhance judicial quality and protect both judges and litigants, while others raise concerns about potential stigmatization, privacy issues and the practical challenges of implementation.

The debate over judicial competence and fitness has gained attention in several jurisdictions globally, with some countries implementing psychological assessments as part of judicial selection processes. However, mandatory psychiatric evaluations for sitting judges remain controversial and raise questions about judicial independence and the separation of powers.

Western REGSEC Task Force Arrests Three in Dual Anti Illegal Mining Operations

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Western REGSEC Task Force Arrests Three in Dual Anti Illegal Mining Operations

The Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC) Task Force conducted coordinated anti illegal mining operations on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at two sites in the Mpohor District and Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality, resulting in three arrests and the seizure of multiple excavators and water pumping machines.

The operation began at approximately 8:00 am with an intelligence led raid on an illegal mining site at Adum Banso within the K9 concession area. The joint task force comprised personnel from the 2nd Infantry Battalion, the Western North Command, National Security, and the Minerals Commission. The operation was led by the Deputy Western Regional National Security Liaison Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police Charles Azalekor.

Site inspection confirmed that illegal miners had encroached on the I Am Gold concession, creating critical health and safety hazards including several deep excavated pits filled with stagnant water. Three suspects, identified as Danso Abora Gideon, Ibrahim Gideon, and Ganiru Kassim Ibrahim, were apprehended during the raid and subsequently handed over to the Mpohor Police Station for processing.

The task force confiscated one excavator and two water pumping machines at the Adum Banso site. A large makeshift structure used in the illegal mining operations was also destroyed on site to prevent further illegal activity. The Adum Banso operation concluded at approximately 12:00 pm.

Following the initial raid, the task force proceeded to a second identified illegal mining site located at Dompim in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality. After several hours of searching the location, the team seized one excavator and two water pumping machines, which were immobilized at the site to prevent their use in further illegal mining operations.

ASP Azalekor affirmed that the operations demonstrate the continued resolve of REGSEC to combat illegal mining activities, protect lawful mining concessions, and mitigate the associated environmental and public safety risks. The coordinated raids targeted sites where unauthorized mining has caused significant environmental degradation and posed threats to legitimate mining operations.

The Western Region remains a focal point for anti galamsey enforcement operations due to the concentration of illegal mining activities across multiple districts. The region’s rich mineral deposits have attracted both licensed operators and illegal miners, creating ongoing challenges for environmental protection and regulatory compliance.

Illegal mining operations in the Western Region have caused extensive damage to water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves. The practice, locally known as galamsey, has polluted major rivers including the Bonsa River and degraded vast tracts of agricultural land across communities in Mpohor, Tarkwa Nsuaem, Wassa Amenfi West, and Ahanta West districts.

The Western REGSEC has intensified enforcement operations in recent months as part of a broader national strategy to eliminate illegal mining activities that threaten environmental sustainability and community safety. Previous operations have resulted in significant arrests and the seizure of heavy machinery, including excavators, changfang equipment, and water pumping systems used for gold extraction.

The three suspects arrested at Adum Banso face charges related to illegal mining and encroachment on licensed concessions. They are expected to be screened by police investigators before being put before the court. Authorities have indicated that prosecutions will be pursued vigorously as part of efforts to ensure accountability and deter future illegal mining activities.

The operations on February 5 underscore the challenges facing security agencies in protecting Ghana’s mineral resources while ensuring that mining activities comply with environmental and safety regulations. The REGSEC task force combines military, police, national security, and regulatory personnel to conduct intelligence led operations targeting illegal mining syndicates operating across the region.

Pollster Explains Sharp Shift in Ayawaso East NDC Primary Race

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Pollster Explains Sharp Shift in Ayawaso East NDC Primary Race

Mussa Dankwah, Chief Executive Officer of Global Info Analytics, has explained the dramatic changes recorded between two separate opinion polls conducted in the Ayawaso East constituency ahead of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary held on Saturday.

Speaking after the release of polling data, Dankwah revealed that his organisation conducted two distinct surveys in the constituency. The first poll was carried out between January 6 and 10, 2026, but was not published. The final poll was conducted between February 4 and 5, 2026, and was subsequently released to the public.

The January poll showed Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed, leading Hajia Amina Adam, widow of the late Member of Parliament for Ayawaso East, Mahama Naser Toure. Among all voters, Baba Jamal commanded 47 percent support against Hajia Amina Adam’s 32 percent. Among NDC voters specifically, the figures stood at 46 percent for Baba Jamal and 36 percent for Hajia Amina Adam.

However, the February poll revealed a complete reversal of fortunes. Baba Jamal’s support fell to 32 percent among all voters, representing a 15 percentage point decline, and dropped to 34 percent among NDC voters, a fall of 12 points. Hajia Amina Adam surged to 58 percent among all voters and 61 percent among NDC voters, establishing a commanding lead ahead of the primary.

Dankwah attributed the shift to campaign messaging and voter perception surrounding Islamic widowhood practices. He stated that there was wrong messaging and a miscalculation regarding how Muslims in Ayawaso East would interpret the Iddah issue. Voters appeared to view the constant focus on Iddah, a four month period of seclusion required under Islamic tradition for widows, as an attempt to blackmail Hajia Amina Adam.

The pollster emphasized that the religious composition of the constituency had been misunderstood by campaign strategists. While the constituency is approximately 74 percent Muslim and about 72 percent Sunni, Dankwah noted that this does not translate to Islamic conservatism. He described Ayawaso East voters as largely liberal in their religious and political outlook.

Dankwah revealed that personal perception played a significant role in voter choice. According to polling data, nearly 43 percent of voters who supported Hajia Amina Adam did so because of how they felt she was being treated during the campaign. The sympathy factor appears to have driven substantial support toward her candidacy.

The pollster used the findings to underscore the importance of data driven political campaigns. He advised that campaign teams must constantly verify whether their messaging is resonating with voters and be prepared to adjust strategy when messages fail to connect. He questioned how campaigns can identify ineffective messaging without conducting regular polling throughout the campaign period.

According to Dankwah, the experience in Ayawaso East highlights a broader lesson about electoral strategy. He stated that winning elections requires both art and science, with data playing a crucial role in guiding campaign decisions. A fundamental misunderstanding of voter demography and the absence of data to inform strategy ultimately misguided the campaign efforts of some contestants.

The pollster concluded by noting that the electorate would have the final say when delegates cast their votes in the primary.

The Ayawaso East parliamentary seat became vacant following the death of Mahama Naser Toure on January 4, 2026, after a period of illness at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra. The Electoral Commission scheduled a by election for March 3, 2026, to fill the vacancy. The NDC primary on Saturday, February 7, was held to select the party’s candidate for the by election.

MTN Group Eyes Full Control of IHS Towers in US$2.76 Billion Deal

Roger A. Agana
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MTN Group Eyes Full Control of IHS Towers in US$2.76 Billion Deal

MTN Group, Africa’s largest mobile network operator, confirmed on Thursday it has entered advanced discussions to acquire the remaining 75 percent stake in IHS Holdings that it does not already own, in a transaction that could value the tower infrastructure company at approximately $2.76 billion.

The South African telecommunications giant issued a cautionary notice to investors following market speculation about its intentions regarding the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) listed company. MTN stated that any potential offer would be pitched near the last trading price of IHS shares on the NYSE as of Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

IHS Holdings shares closed at $8.23 on Wednesday, representing a 5 percent decline, according to market data. The company, which is dual listed on the NYSE and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, operates more than 37,000 telecommunications towers across seven countries in Africa, including Nigeria, South Africa, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and Zambia, as well as operations in Brazil and Colombia.

MTN emphasized that no final agreement has been reached and warned there is no certainty the transaction will be concluded. The company advised shareholders to exercise caution when trading its securities until further announcements are made, noting that the proposed transaction could have a material effect on MTN share prices.

IHS Towers confirmed the discussions are ongoing with MTN but stressed the approach is non-binding and has not been agreed, signaling early stage strategic dialogue that could reshape the company’s ownership structure.

The potential acquisition represents a significant strategic shift for MTN, which has pursued an asset light infrastructure strategy over the past decade. The telecommunications operator has sold thousands of passive network sites to IHS through sale and leaseback arrangements, including a major transaction in South Africa in 2022 involving more than 5,700 towers. These deals enabled MTN to monetize capital intensive infrastructure while retaining long term access to tower capacity under master lease agreements.

If completed, the buyout would reverse years of infrastructure outsourcing by bringing tower assets back under MTN’s direct control. Greater ownership of tower infrastructure could help MTN manage costs, improve network efficiency and reduce its reliance on third party providers over the long term.

MTN and IHS Towers maintain a longstanding commercial relationship across multiple African markets, with MTN serving as IHS’s largest customer and a major shareholder. MTN’s approximately 25 percent holding in IHS stems from its 2014 tower sale deal, when the operator sold most of its tower assets across several African markets to IHS as part of a landmark infrastructure transaction.

The company stated that if negotiations do not result in a deal, it would consider alternative options to unlock value from its existing shareholding in IHS while staying within its capital allocation framework. MTN has previously raised concerns about corporate governance at IHS, adding context to its cautious tone in the latest announcement.

IHS Towers, founded in Nigeria in 2001, has grown into one of the world’s largest independent tower companies. The London headquartered firm went public on the NYSE in 2021 and manages telecommunications infrastructure across emerging markets in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.

Premier League Matchday 25 Eyes Potential Upsets Following Leeds Victory

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Premier League Matchday 25 Eyes Potential Upsets Following Leeds Victory

Premier League Matchday 25 began with Leeds United securing a crucial 3-1 home victory over Nottingham Forest on Friday evening, setting the stage for a weekend packed with fixtures that could deliver unexpected results.

Goals from Jayden Bogle, Noah Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealed the win for Leeds, moving them nine points clear of the relegation zone. The victory marked the Whites’ fifth consecutive home night match triumph this season, with Calvert-Lewin reaching double figures in Premier League goals for the campaign.

The weekend’s headline fixture sees Liverpool hosting Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday evening, with the visitors currently holding second place in the table while Liverpool sit sixth. However, several Saturday encounters present opportunities for surprising outcomes.

Arsenal, who lead the Premier League table, welcome eighth-placed Sunderland to Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Arsenal hold a six-point advantage at the summit, and while they are clear favourites, the Black Cats earned a dramatic 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture last November through a late equalizer. Sunderland defeated Burnley 3-0 in their previous outing, demonstrating their capability to challenge established sides.

Wolverhampton Wanderers face Chelsea at Molineux on Saturday evening in what represents a critical match for the hosts. Wolves currently occupy bottom position in the league standings, while Chelsea sit fifth. The home side suffered a 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth in their last match and will be eager to avoid consecutive home losses. Chelsea claimed a 3-2 victory over West Ham United at Stamford Bridge in their most recent fixture.

Manchester United host Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon in another encounter that could produce an unexpected outcome. United, positioned fourth in the table, defeated Fulham in their previous league match, while Tottenham, currently 14th, drew 2-2 with Manchester City. The reverse fixture at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium finished 2-2 in November, suggesting the visitors possess the quality to secure a positive result.

The weekend’s fixtures carry significant implications for the title race, European qualification positions and the relegation battle as the season approaches its critical phase.

Ghanaian Midfielder David Anane Joins Kazakh Side FC Ulytau

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Ghanaian Midfielder David Anane Joins Kazakh Side FC Ulytau

FC Ulytau have completed the signing of Ghanaian attacking midfielder David Martin Anane as they prepare for the 2026 Kazakhstan Premier League season.

The 24-year-old joins the Kazakh top-flight club following a stint with Lithuanian side FC Džiugas Telšiai, where he spent the latter part of his recent campaign. Anane is expected to provide creative options and attacking impetus for Ulytau, who are preparing for their second consecutive season in the Kazakhstan Premier League following promotion in 2024.

Anane brings considerable European experience, having previously featured for clubs across several countries. His career has included stints with FK Kauno Žalgiris in Lithuania, FK Liepaja in Latvia, Fremad Amager in Denmark, and FC Vista in Russia. The versatile midfielder, who can operate across various attacking positions, is viewed as a valuable addition to strengthen Ulytau’s offensive capabilities.

FC Ulytau are currently competing in the Kazakhstan Premier League, which has expanded to 14 teams for the current campaign. The club secured promotion after a lengthy absence from the top division and have established themselves in the competitive landscape of Kazakh football.

The signing reflects Ulytau’s ambition to consolidate their position in the top tier and build a competitive squad capable of challenging established sides in the league. Anane joins a squad that features a mix of domestic and international players as the club continues its squad development ahead of the new season.

The Ghanaian midfielder’s experience across multiple European leagues is expected to add depth and quality to Ulytau’s midfield options as they navigate the challenges of Kazakhstan’s premier football competition.

Nestlé Ghana Strengthens Partnership with GES for 2026 Independence Awards

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Nestlé Ghana Strengthens Partnership with GES for 2026 Independence Awards

Nestlé Ghana Limited has reaffirmed its collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES) during a courtesy visit focused on preparations for the 2026 President’s Independence Day Awards, which recognize academic excellence in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

The 2026 ceremony will honour 52 outstanding students including the Overall Best Public School Students (male and female) across all 16 regions, Overall Best Private School Students in each region, and the Overall Best National Male and Female Students with additional educational needs, specifically those with visual or hearing impairments, all based on raw examination scores.

Cristina Macina, Vice President of Communications for Zone Asia, Oceania and Africa at Nestlé, visited Ghana for the first time as part of the delegation. She was received by Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, Director General of GES, alongside other senior officials. The discussions centered on strengthening collaboration in education, sports development, and youth empowerment nationwide.

Deborah Kwablah, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager for Nestlé Ghana, emphasized flagship initiatives including the President’s Independence Awards and the MILO U-13 football tournament during the meeting. She noted that these programmes continue playing a pivotal role in promoting academic excellence and nurturing young sporting talent across Ghana.

Nestlé Ghana Managing Director Salomé Azevedo reiterated the company’s commitment to inclusive sports development. She highlighted the MILO U-13 platform as a key avenue for ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has equal opportunity to discover and develop their potential.

Patricia Ekaba, Head of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs for Central and West Africa, expressed Nestlé’s continued enthusiasm for supporting young talents and contributing to national efforts in both education and sports. She emphasized that the company views these investments as essential to Ghana’s long term development.

Macina praised the cooperative spirit between Nestlé and GES, noting that investments in sports and education are essential to nurturing Ghana’s future leaders. Professor Davis acknowledged the company’s decades of partnership with GES and expressed readiness to sign a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that seeks to broaden collaboration to include nutrition education and sustainability initiatives such as waste segregation in schools.

As part of her familiarization visit, Macina engaged with two awardees from the 2023 cohort of the President’s Independence Day Awards to understand the long term impact of the recognition programme. Her visit included a stop at the University of Ghana’s Institute of Applied Science and Technology to explore ongoing areas of collaboration with Nestlé Ghana.

The President’s Independence Day Awards were established in 1993 to provide scholarships for deserving BECE graduates aged 14 to 19 from across Ghana. Nestlé’s beverage brand MILO has been the lead sponsor for 16 years, maintaining a strong commitment to education delivery and sports development at the basic level.

At the 32nd edition held on March 5, 2025, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang paid tribute to the late former President Jerry John Rawlings for initiating the awards scheme. She commended the awardees and stressed the importance of collective effort to transform Ghana’s educational system.

Award packages typically include laptops, plaques, Nestlé souvenirs, and a one year supply of Nestlé products, along with a certificate signed by the President of the Republic of Ghana. Students also participate in exciting activities including factory tours in Tema, visits to Parliament House and the Ministry of Education, tours of Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and air experiences at the Air Force Base in Burma Camp.

The awards ceremony traditionally coincides with Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations, with the climax falling on March 6. The event attracts Ministers of State, members of the Diplomatic Corps, traditional leaders, heads of departments and agencies, parents of awardees, teachers, and fellow students.

Beyond the President’s Independence Day Awards, Nestlé MILO champions other youth development initiatives in sports including the MILO U-13 Champions League and the MILO Sports Development Programme, which reach over 100,000 young people annually across Ghana.

The expanded MOU under discussion reflects both organizations’ recognition that addressing Ghana’s educational challenges requires partnerships that extend beyond academic recognition to include nutrition, sustainability, and holistic youth development approaches.

Heart of Lions Goalkeeper Defends United States Relocation Decision

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Heart of Lions Goalkeeper Defends United States Relocation Decision

Heart of Lions goalkeeper Lawrence Osei Baffour has responded to media reports regarding his relocation to the United States, denying claims that he traveled to work as an elderly caretaker and explaining that the move was a family decision made in pursuit of better opportunities.

The 30 year old shot stopper revealed during an interview on Kumasi based Angel FM that he only informed Heart of Lions about his relocation after arriving in the United States. Osei stated that his father had been working on visa arrangements and wanted him to leave Ghana, though he initially planned to complete the first round of the Ghana Premier League season before traveling.

Osei expressed frustration at media coverage he described as inaccurate, specifically mentioning reports that suggested he relocated to work as an elderly caretaker. The goalkeeper warned media personalities to verify information before publishing stories about his situation, stating that some outlets including Adom TV had spread claims that were not factual.

The goalkeeper’s father supported his position, insisting that the relocation decision was made in his son’s best interest. He urged media commentators to exercise responsibility when reporting on the matter and to avoid spreading unverified information.

Osei Baffour departed Ghana while still under contract with Heart of Lions, having signed an agreement last year that runs through 2027 according to Ghanasoccernet. The goalkeeper has been one of the standout performers in the Ghana Premier League since joining the Kpando based club in 2021, though his current season save percentage stands at 21.4 percent across 17 appearances.

The goalkeeper was voted Goalkeeper of the Month for November 2025, demonstrating his quality within the domestic league. He also earned selection to Ghana’s home based national team, the Black Galaxies, traveling with the squad to South Africa for a friendly against Bafana Bafana in December 2025 that ended in a 1 to 0 loss.

Osei missed Heart of Lions’ last two league matches against Bechem United and Asante Kotoko before his departure became public knowledge. Sources indicated he was serving a suspension due to accumulated yellow cards when he left the country, though the club has not issued an official statement regarding his absence.

The goalkeeper’s TikTok posts showing him on a plane to the United States and shoveling snow sparked speculation about his reasons for relocating. One video was captioned “Left home with a dream, now chasing it,” which some interpreted as indicating he had abandoned his football career.

Social media reports suggested Osei relocated to take up work that would earn approximately 3,000 dollars monthly compared with 246 dollars he earned playing professional football in Ghana. However, the goalkeeper has not confirmed specific employment details or salary figures in his public statements.

Heart of Lions currently occupy seventh position on the Ghana Premier League table. The club has not publicly commented on Osei’s absence or contractual status, leaving uncertainty about whether they will pursue legal action for breach of contract or reach an accommodation allowing him to terminate his agreement.

The situation reflects broader challenges facing Ghana Premier League clubs in retaining talent amid significant salary disparities between domestic football and opportunities abroad. Several players have departed Ghanaian clubs in recent seasons seeking better compensation overseas, though most transfers occur through official channels with proper documentation.

Player welfare advocates have raised concerns about contractual enforcement in Ghana football, noting that clubs sometimes struggle to pay salaries on time while simultaneously expecting players to honor multi year agreements. The Ghana Football Association has not addressed Osei’s specific case publicly.

Osei Baffour’s situation differs from most player departures as he relocated during the season while still under contract and without securing his club’s formal release. The goalkeeper’s explanation emphasizes family considerations and pursuit of better opportunities rather than dissatisfaction with his club or football career.

Expert Urges Government to Revive Stalled Mining Revenue Governance Bill

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Expert Urges Government to Revive Stalled Mining Revenue Governance Bill

Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI) Co-Chair Dr Steve Manteaw has called on government to resurrect a decade-old Natural Resource Governance Bill designed to impose discipline on mining revenues similar to safeguards currently governing petroleum income.

Speaking at a Strategic Policy Session on Ghana’s Gold Trade and Economic Recovery organized by the Economic Governance Platform (EGP), Dr Manteaw warned that the absence of a coherent governance structure for mining revenues threatens to convert the current gold windfall into short term consumption rather than long term national wealth.

The energy expert traced Ghana’s current challenge to contrasting approaches applied to petroleum and mineral resources. When Ghana discovered oil and began commercial production, policymakers created the Petroleum Revenue Management Act (PRMA) with built in protections against volatile commodity prices.

Under the PRMA enacted in 2011, Ghana established the Stabilisation Fund to cushion the budget during revenue downturns and the Heritage Fund to protect future generations. Clear investment rules were implemented, restricting petroleum revenues to low risk financial instruments while deliberately avoiding speculative or high risk investments.

The legislation also created the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC), a citizen led oversight body mandated to monitor petroleum revenue use and report directly to the public. This structure ensured that petroleum revenues were not only spent but scrutinized, with transparency embedded into the system.

Dr Manteaw noted that these safeguards were informed by lessons Ghana had already learned painfully from the mining sector. Despite decades of gold production, the country has never applied a similar governance framework to mining revenues, an omission that has become more glaring as gold prices surge on international markets.

Without such a framework, gold revenues risk being spent from hand to mouth, driven by short term political and fiscal pressures rather than long term development goals. Infrastructure, savings, industrialization, and intergenerational equity are often crowded out by immediate budget needs.

Dr Manteaw revealed that efforts to address this gap were once underway. About a decade ago, stakeholders including GHEITI began developing a Natural Resource Governance Bill designed to harmonize management of Ghana’s extractive resources, both petroleum and minerals, under a single coherent framework.

The proposed bill sought to replicate PRMA strengths in the mining sector, including stabilization mechanisms, long term savings, conservative investment rules, and citizen oversight. Dr Manteaw chaired the process and confirmed that the draft exists with the Ministry of Finance, though political transitions and shifting priorities stalled implementation.

With gold prices high and global demand strong, Dr Manteaw believes the timing is right and urgent for government to return to the stalled bill. Reviving it would allow Ghana to harmonize natural resource management, ensuring that gold revenues are treated with the same discipline, foresight, and transparency as oil revenues.

Such a framework would also institutionalize citizen oversight, ensuring that mining revenues are tracked, audited, and explained to the public rather than absorbed quietly into recurrent spending. For Dr Manteaw, the issue is not whether Ghana earns from gold but how those earnings are managed.

Ghana is Africa’s largest gold producer and the sixth largest worldwide. The country earned approximately 16.7 billion cedis from the extractive sector in 2023, representing roughly 7 percent of total government receipts, according to Ministry of Finance data disclosed during the 2023 GHEITI report launch.

GHEITI driven reforms have recovered over 700 million dollars in additional revenue that might otherwise have been lost, Dr Manteaw noted during the recent report launch, underscoring the initiative’s impact on both mining and petroleum policy.

Global gold prices continue climbing, with benchmark rates reaching approximately 2,800 dollars per troy ounce in recent weeks. This represents a significant increase from historical averages and provides Ghana with substantial foreign exchange earnings potential if managed strategically.

The mining sector generated net foreign exchange inflows of 3.9 billion dollars in 2023, helping stabilize Ghana’s balance of payments and exchange rate. Transfers from extractive activities to sub national authorities reached 1.8 billion cedis, supporting infrastructure and local development in mining and petroleum producing areas.

However, challenges persist in how these revenues translate into community development. Dr Manteaw previously highlighted that district assemblies in mining areas often misuse Mineral Development Fund (MDF) allocations on funeral donations, canopy hiring, painting office buildings, and garbage collection instead of investing in water systems, health facilities, feeder roads, or school infrastructure.

The expert has consistently advocated for treating mineral revenues as income for investment rather than income for consumption. He illustrated this principle using the Free Senior High School programme, noting that a third of the programme is financed from oil revenues while 30 million dollars from the same source was invested in Kotoka Terminal Three, which has generated returns of approximately 10 million dollars.

Dr Manteaw emphasized that gold is finite and warned that spending everything today to solve immediate problems denies future generations their fair share. As Ghana debates economic stability, debt sustainability, and long term development, the call to resurrect the Natural Resource Governance Bill places mining revenues squarely at the center of national conversation.

NPP Faces Delegate Education Questions as Party Rallies Behind Bawumia

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NPP Faces Delegate Education Questions as Party Rallies Behind Bawumia

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has raised concerns about the educational composition of political party delegates following revelations that 41 percent of New Patriotic Party (NPP) delegates hold Junior High School as their highest educational qualification, questioning whether this affects informed leadership choices in Ghana’s democracy.

Speaking on KeyPoints with Alfred Ocansey following the January 31, 2026 presidential primary, Kpebu argued that the educational profile of delegates poses challenges to effective decision making within internal party structures. The lawyer suggested that educational attainment levels among delegates merit consideration when evaluating the quality of political party democracy.

Data from Global InfoAnalytics revealed that Junior High School qualifications represented the highest educational level for a significant portion of NPP delegates who participated in selecting the party’s 2028 presidential flagbearer. The research firm’s Executive Director, Mussa Dankwah, disclosed these findings ahead of the primary.

The NPP primary on January 31 attracted over 211,000 delegates who cast ballots across more than 300 polling centres nationwide. Dr Mahamudu Bawumia emerged victorious with 110,645 votes representing 56.48 percent. Former Member of Parliament for Assin Central Kennedy Agyapong obtained 46,554 votes accounting for 23.76 percent, while Dr Bryan Acheampong secured 36,303 votes representing 18.53 percent.

Meanwhile, former Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North Andy Appiah Kubi has called on all NPP members to unite behind flagbearer Dr Bawumia ahead of the 2028 general elections. Appiah Kubi emphasized that the party now has a candidate who should receive support from every member irrespective of which aspirant they backed during the primary campaign.

The unity appeal reflects broader efforts within the NPP to consolidate support following a competitive five candidate race that exposed divergent views about the party’s direction. All four aspirants who contested Dr Bawumia have since pledged support, though questions remain about healing divisions within the party’s grassroots base.

Kpebu’s concerns about delegate education align with his broader advocacy for evidence based political decision making. He has consistently urged Ghanaians to prioritize data, research, and objective analysis over emotions, prophecies, or external political commentary when making electoral choices.

The lawyer previously argued that polling evidence overwhelmingly supported Bawumia as the NPP’s strongest candidate despite some party members favouring fresh leadership untainted by the Akufo Addo administration’s governance record. He maintained that strategic decisions must be grounded in electoral mathematics rather than wishful thinking.

Ghana’s political party structures rely on delegate systems where selected party members vote to choose flagbearers and parliamentary candidates. The NPP abolished its super delegates system in July 2025 as part of reforms aimed at strengthening internal democracy, expanding participation among ordinary party members.

Education levels among political party delegates have implications for how candidates campaign and the types of messages that resonate during internal contests. Aspirants must balance technical policy presentations with accessible communication that connects with delegates from diverse educational backgrounds.

Isaac Appiah Kubi, Chairman of NPP West London, separately congratulated Dr Bawumia and called for unity ahead of the 2028 contest. He stated that the tough campaigning period had concluded and party members must now work together toward recapturing power from the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Dr Bawumia, in his victory speech, pledged to engage all party levels including reaching out to aggrieved members and elders to rebuild trust and cohesion. He described the youth as the backbone of the opposition NPP, stating that every voice matters and every opinion is worth considering when building electoral strategy.

The flagbearer emphasized that his election communicated broad based appeal across the party and that he must draw on that capital to unite members as a crucial step toward winning power in 2028. He paid tribute to fellow aspirants for what he characterized as a competitive but respectful contest.

Security personnel maintained order throughout voting, with no reports of violence or disturbances despite large gatherings at party headquarters and polling centres nationwide. Party executives and independent observers described the exercise as one of the most credible and well organised flagbearer primaries in NPP history.

Bentil Urges NPP to Rely on Data Over Prophecies

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Bentil Urges NPP to Rely on Data Over Prophecies

IMANI Africa Vice President Kofi Bentil has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to base its 2028 electoral strategy on data, evidence, and strategic analysis rather than prophecies or external political advice following Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s victory in the party’s presidential primary on January 31, 2026.

Bentil emphasized that political opponents naturally prefer to face weaker challengers, making candidate advice from rival parties inherently suspect. He urged the NPP to reject what he described as self interested political commentary, stating that parties should not be swayed by voices that do not have their best interests at heart.

Speaking on KeyPoints with Alfred Ocansey, Bentil argued that while faith plays an important role in leadership, elections are ultimately won through data, electoral outcomes, and voter behaviour rather than prophecy or emotional attachment. He specifically cautioned Ghanaians to discard false prophecies regarding electoral outcomes, stating they represent noise in national discourse.

Bentil pointed to Bawumia’s performance in the December 7, 2024 presidential election as evidence of his electoral viability. The former Vice President garnered 41 percent of votes cast despite deep anger and disaffection from all sides, including NPP members who did not vote. Bawumia secured over 4.6 million votes in that election, losing to President John Dramani Mahama.

The IMANI executive maintained that polling evidence overwhelmingly supports Bawumia as the party’s strongest candidate for the 2028 contest. He emphasized that any decision the NPP makes must be grounded in objective analysis of electoral data and strategic considerations rather than emotions or external pressure.

Dr Bawumia won the January 31, 2026 primary with 110,645 votes representing 56.48 percent of ballots cast. His closest contender, former Member of Parliament for Assin Central Kennedy Agyapong, obtained 46,554 votes accounting for 23.76 percent. Dr Bryan Acheampong followed with 36,303 votes representing 18.53 percent, while Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum received 1,999 votes for 1.02 percent. Kwabena Agyapong secured 402 votes representing 0.21 percent.

The primary attracted over 211,000 delegates who cast ballots across more than 300 polling centres nationwide. Several prophets had staked their credibility on prophecies regarding the outcome, with Prophet Bernard ElBernard Nelson Eshun subsequently apologizing after his prediction that Kennedy Agyapong would win proved inaccurate.

Bentil has consistently advocated for science based decision making in national affairs. He previously urged Ghanaians to put aside emotions, superstition, and excessive religiosity while allowing science, evidence, and personal effort to guide electoral choices and other critical decisions.

The lawyer emphasized that research and polling often reveal uncomfortable truths but provide essential guidance for strategic planning. He argued that Ghana needs leaders who understand global trends and their implications for national development, particularly regarding digitalisation and technological advancement.

Addressing the 2028 election outlook, Bentil acknowledged that the contest represents a significant challenge compared with the 2024 race. He stated that the election of Dr Bawumia as flagbearer was a hill to climb, while the 2028 general elections will constitute a mountain requiring different strategic approaches.

Some NPP members, including flagbearer aspirant Dr Bryan Acheampong, had cautioned against fielding Dr Bawumia again, arguing that the party needs a fresh candidate who can distance the formation from the governance record of the previous administration. However, Bentil’s analysis suggests that such concerns may be misplaced given Bawumia’s demonstrated electoral strength.

Bawumia, addressing delegates during his campaign, argued that presenting a new candidate for 2028 would signal that the NPP is not serious about recapturing power. He emphasized that his experience, name recognition, and existing support base position him as the most viable option for the party.

The debate within the NPP reflects broader questions about political strategy following electoral defeat. While some argue for a fresh start with a new candidate, others contend that Bawumia’s experience, tested support base, and proven ability to withstand scrutiny make him the optimal choice for the 2028 contest.

Aahbibi Rebrands as Hallos Launching Over 5000 Learning Courses

Roger A. Agana
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Aahbibi Rebrands as Hallos Launching Over 5000 Learning Courses

Educational technology platform Aahbibi has officially rebranded as Hallos alongside the launch of more than 5,000 self paced courses designed to strengthen knowledge transfer, accelerate skill acquisition, and improve literacy among everyday learners across Africa and beyond.

The rebrand signals a strategic shift toward building a creator driven learning ecosystem focused on practical, job ready skills for the modern economy. Hallos positions itself as a creator economy engine that combines education, entertainment, and commerce within a single digital platform.

The platform integrates live creator led classes, podcast based learning, quiz driven gamification, and social commerce features. This blended approach aims to deepen understanding, boost engagement, and promote fast, practical learning experiences for users at every level.

Creators from Kenya, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Lagos, the United States, and Dubai are already active on the platform, cultivating a global community rooted in African creativity and innovation. The expanding international network delivers diverse perspectives, practical insights, and culturally relevant content that resonates with learners across different regions.

Beyond digital learning, Hallos plans to drive engagement through physical and hybrid experiences. Upcoming initiatives include the Learning247 Creator Summit at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC), and a major exhibition at the Enugu Technology Festival. These events are designed to connect creators, learners, and industry stakeholders while fostering collaboration and showcasing innovation within the creative and digital sectors.

At the heart of Hallos’ mission is a four pillar strategy focused on long term social and economic impact. The platform is dedicated to supporting women in technology, advancing massive open connected education, and positioning Africa as a global production hub through market ready skills development.

Hallos is also launching a social impact course designed to encourage collective participation in Africa’s transformation. The initiative invites individuals, creators, and organizations to contribute to reshaping narratives, expanding access to opportunity, and driving inclusive growth across the continent.

The African educational technology sector continues experiencing robust growth despite infrastructure and capital challenges. Industry projections estimate the market could expand from approximately 3.4 billion dollars in 2024 to between 7.7 billion and 20 billion dollars by 2033 to 2034, according to sector analysts.

Nigeria maintains the strongest position in African educational technology innovation, accounting for approximately 30 percent of promising startups, while South Africa contributes around 28 percent. Geographic diversity in educational technology ventures is expanding, with Rwanda, Ghana, and other markets producing innovative solutions addressing workforce development, digital literacy, and curriculum aligned learning.

Educational technology platforms face significant challenges across Africa, where an estimated 98 million children remain out of school and nearly 90 percent of learners cannot read and understand a simple text by age 10. The continent will require 15 to 17 million additional teachers by 2030 just to meet basic demand, according to education sector assessments.

Africa’s youth population aged 15 to 24 is expected to increase by around 42 percent by 2030, with the number of young people entering the African labour force projected to exceed the rest of the world combined by 2050. This demographic reality creates both significant economic opportunity and substantial risk if educational systems fail to deliver relevant skills.

The most impactful educational technology models treat teachers as active collaborators and innovation partners rather than passive recipients of technology. Sustainable solutions incorporate adequate ongoing support and involve educators in initial design processes to leverage classroom experience.

Barry Callebaut Leadership Crisis Collides with Cocoa Market Volatility

Roger A. Agana
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Barry Callebaut Leadership Crisis Collides with Cocoa Market Volatility

Barry Callebaut experienced a boardroom clash that led to the departure of Chief Executive Officer Peter Feld on January 21, 2026, after he pursued plans to separate the cocoa division without board approval, triggering a strategic dispute with chairman Patrick De Maeseneire.

Sources with knowledge of the matter revealed to Reuters that Feld’s position became untenable after he explored splitting the cocoa unit from the chocolate business and the proposal leaked to media before board deliberation. The board firmly rejected the plan during a meeting in Chicago, with De Maeseneire leading the opposition. The cocoa segment accounted for 31 percent of Barry Callebaut’s total sales revenue and 15.5 percent of operating profit in fiscal year 2024 to 2025.

The leadership upheaval extended beyond the chief executive position. Kai Hummel, former Global Head of Corporate Communication, also exited the company. While Barry Callebaut stated that Hummel resigned voluntarily in December to return to Germany, sources indicated his departure coincided with Feld’s exit, underscoring broader executive turnover.

Hein Schumacher assumed the chief executive role on January 26, 2026, bringing 25 years of food industry experience. Schumacher served as Unilever chief executive from 2023 to 2025, though the Financial Times reported that Unilever’s board replaced him with Chief Financial Officer Fernando Fernandez in February 2025 after losing patience with the pace of his turnaround efforts.

Separating the cocoa processing operation could have allowed Barry Callebaut to shield itself from commodity price swings, concentrate resources on higher margin chocolate production, and optimize financing structures. However, major shareholder Artisan Partners, which holds approximately 10 percent of Barry Callebaut, supported maintaining the integrated cocoa and chocolate model for vertical integration advantages.

Barry Callebaut faces significant operational challenges beyond leadership instability. The company reported volume sales declining 6.8 percent during fiscal year 2024 to 2025, with global chocolate witnessing a 5.3 percent fall and global cocoa dropping 12.8 percent. Management attributed the decline partly to prioritizing higher return segments and geographies while temporarily suspending production at its St. Hyacinthe facility in Canada.

Global cocoa markets demonstrated extreme volatility during early 2026. Benchmark cocoa prices recovered modestly to approximately 4,170 to 4,175 dollars per tonne on February 5 following a steep 30 percent decline since early January. Prices dropped almost 60 percent year on year, highlighting dramatic swings rather than confirmed trend reversals.

Short term supply disruptions from Côte d’Ivoire briefly tightened market sentiment, slowing deliveries and fueling speculative volatility. Physical supply indicators remained mixed, with seasonal harvest flows and port arrivals variable across West Africa. Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana together account for approximately 60 percent of global cocoa production.

Chocolate manufacturers continue grappling with margin pressure and subdued consumer appetite despite recent cocoa price moderation. Mondelez International reported fourth quarter 2025 revenue of approximately 10.5 billion dollars, supported by pricing execution despite ongoing volume declines. However, the company forecast organic revenue growth of just zero to 2 percent in 2026, below market expectations, as elevated cocoa costs and consumer trade downs continue constraining demand momentum.

High cocoa prices throughout 2024 and early 2025 suppressed processing volumes globally. Market analysts project continued weak demand until consumption recovers or sustained supply constraints emerge. Weather patterns in West Africa remain critical wildcards, with any deviation from normal rainfall potentially repricing risk rapidly.

Industry consultancy StoneX projected global surpluses of 287,000 tonnes for the 2025 to 2026 crop year and 267,000 tonnes for 2026 to 2027, signaling consistent reversal of tight market conditions observed in previous cycles. The International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) reported that 2024 to 2025 global cocoa stocks rose 4.2 percent year on year to 1.1 million tonnes.

Barry Callebaut’s BC Next Level transformation programme neared completion before the leadership transition. Feld joined as chief executive in April 2023 after predecessor Peter Boone’s abrupt departure, tasked with transforming the company into a simpler, leaner organization. The 500 million Swiss franc growth plan aimed to strengthen operational efficiency and customer focus.

Treasury Bills Lead Fixed Income Trading on Thursday

Roger A. Agana
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Treasury Bills Lead Fixed Income Trading on Thursday

The Ghana Fixed Income Market (GFIM) processed 1.70 billion cedis across 962 transactions on Thursday, February 6, 2026, with treasury bills capturing the dominant share of trading activity as institutional investors maintained their preference for short term government securities.

Treasury bills accounted for 608.52 million cedis through 855 separate deals, representing 36 percent of total market volume. New Government of Ghana (GoG) notes and bonds contributed 935.27 million cedis across 88 transactions, accounting for 55 percent of trading activity. Sell and buyback trades involving government notes and bonds added 144.30 million cedis through 14 transactions.

The session’s most actively traded treasury bill was a security maturing March 23, 2026, which recorded 311.51 million cedis in volume across 34 transactions at a closing price of 98.54 cedis per 100 cedis face value. The six week maturity reflects institutional demand for ultra short duration exposures offering competitive returns while preserving maximum liquidity.

Among government bonds, the highest volume transaction involved a security maturing August 15, 2028, carrying a 10.00 percent coupon, which saw 221.29 million cedis change hands across six deals. The bond traded at a yield of 13.43 percent with a closing price of 92.84 cedis per 100 cedis face value, indicating investors demand significant premiums for medium term exposures despite improved macroeconomic fundamentals.

The largest sell and buyback transaction involved a government bond maturing February 12, 2030, carrying an 8.80 percent coupon, which processed 90.33 million cedis across three deals. The security traded at a yield of 12.90 percent with a closing price of 87.42 cedis, reflecting institutional use of repurchase arrangements to access short term liquidity while maintaining longer dated bond positions.

Old government notes and bonds recorded minimal activity with only 81,836 cedis changing hands through three trades. The most active older security was a bond maturing January 17, 2028, carrying a 21.75 percent coupon, which processed 78,596 cedis across two transactions at a yield of 15.51 percent and a closing price of 110.11 cedis.

Corporate bonds showed limited participation with 10.03 million cedis in volume through two transactions. A CMB bond maturing August 30, 2027, carrying a 13.00 percent coupon, closed at 96.17 cedis, though no yield data was available for this transaction.

Thursday’s trading patterns demonstrate continued institutional preference for either highly liquid short dated treasury bills or attractively priced medium term government bonds over older securities or corporate instruments. The concentration of activity in these segments reflects strategic positioning by banks, pension funds, insurance companies, and asset managers navigating Ghana’s evolving fixed income landscape.

Market participants continue monitoring domestic economic indicators and monetary policy decisions from the Bank of Ghana (BoG). Inflation reached 6.3 percent in November 2025, falling within the central bank’s target range after years of elevated price pressures. Government bond yields remain elevated despite broader macroeconomic improvement, reflecting investor caution about medium term fiscal sustainability.

The GFIM operates under the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) and provides a platform for secondary trading of fixed income securities including treasury bills, government notes and bonds, BoG money market instruments, and corporate bonds. The market uses the Bloomberg E-Bond trading and market surveillance system.

Since its inception in August 2015, the GFIM has traded over one trillion cedis in securities, establishing itself as one of Sub-Saharan Africa’s most liquid fixed income platforms outside South Africa and Nigeria. The market experienced significant disruption in 2023 following implementation of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), when trading volumes dropped from 230 billion cedis in 2022 to 98 billion cedis in 2023 before recovering 76 percent in 2024 to reach 174 billion cedis.

Global Air Cargo Rates Rise Amid Regional Variations

Roger A. Agana
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Global Air Cargo Rates Rise Amid Regional Variations

Worldwide air cargo rates averaged 2.42 United States dollars per kilogram during the week ending February 1, 2026, representing a 1 percent increase compared with the preceding two weeks and reflecting steady demand ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday period.

According to WorldACD Market Data, global chargeable weight declined 2 percent year on year during the latest two week period, though capacity increased 13 percent compared with the same period in 2025. The data reflects more than 500,000 weekly transactions tracked by the Amsterdam based market intelligence provider.

Regional performance showed significant variation across major air cargo corridors. Africa recorded the strongest rate growth at 9 percent during the two week comparison period, followed by Europe at 7 percent and Middle East and South Asia at 10 percent. Asia Pacific rates climbed 3 percent while North America declined 2 percent during the same timeframe.

Chargeable weight from Africa origins increased 4 percent year on year, while Asia Pacific volumes fell 5 percent compared with the corresponding period last year. Central and South America recorded a 4 percent decline in volumes year on year, while Europe remained flat. Middle East and South Asia experienced a 13 percent volume decrease, while North America dropped 4 percent.

Capacity trends varied substantially by region. Africa capacity surged 7 percent during the two week period, while Asia Pacific jumped 23 percent. Europe capacity climbed 10 percent, and Middle East and South Asia added 11 percent. North America capacity edged up just 1 percent during the comparison period.

The five week trend ending February 1 showed worldwide rates advancing 1 percent, with chargeable weight also up 1 percent. Capacity increased 10 percent over the five week period as airlines added freighter services and expanded belly hold cargo operations on passenger flights.

Rates remained below year earlier levels across most regions despite recent improvements. The worldwide average rate of 2.42 dollars per kilogram compared with rates ranging from 2.38 to 2.48 dollars over the preceding five weeks. Prior year rates during the same week registered 2.47 dollars per kilogram.

Regional pricing patterns reflected underlying supply and demand dynamics. Strong capacity additions in Asia Pacific dampened rate growth despite stable volumes, while tight capacity in Africa supported stronger pricing. Middle East and South Asia faced downward volume pressure despite double digit rate increases.

The data covers the period immediately preceding Lunar New Year celebrations, which typically generate significant cargo movements as manufacturers rush shipments before extended factory closures across Asia. Valentine’s Day on February 14 also drives seasonal flower shipments from production regions including Central and South America and East Africa.

WorldACD provides comprehensive air cargo market intelligence to airlines, freight forwarders, shippers, airports, and general sales agents. The company processes confidential data from partners under strict neutrality and independence principles, converting raw transaction information into actionable market insights.

The air cargo industry continues navigating macroeconomic headwinds including trade tensions, shifting supply chains, and evolving e commerce patterns. Tonnage growth in 2026 follows strong performance in 2025, when global volumes advanced 4 percent despite economic uncertainties.

Preliminary data for January 2026 indicated 9 percent year on year volume growth, though direct comparisons remain complicated by the shifting Lunar New Year calendar. Full month average worldwide spot rates in January reached 2.65 dollars per kilogram, declining 8 percent from December levels but remaining 1 percent below prior year figures.

Market participants continue monitoring developments including United States tariff policies affecting Asian imports, European Union measures targeting low value e commerce shipments, and Red Sea shipping disruptions that have redirected ocean freight volumes to air cargo services since 2024.

Ghana Fixed Income Market Trading Surges 28 Percent

Roger A. Agana
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Ghana Fixed Income Market Trading Surges 28 Percent

The Ghana Fixed Income Market (GFIM) recorded total trading volume of 11.43 billion cedis for the week ending February 6, 2026, representing a 28.34 percent increase from the previous week’s 8.91 billion cedis as treasury bills and government bonds attracted strong institutional demand.

Treasury bills dominated weekly activity with 6.72 billion cedis in transactions, marking a 235.01 percent surge from the previous week’s 2.00 billion cedis. New Government of Ghana (GoG) bonds contributed 3.94 billion cedis to total volume, though this represented a 38.27 percent decline from the prior week’s 6.39 billion cedis. Corporate securities recorded 266.78 million cedis in trades, advancing 30.14 percent from 205.00 million cedis the previous week.

Sell and buyback transactions involving government bonds reached 504.73 million cedis, climbing 63.22 percent from 309.24 million cedis recorded the prior week. These repurchase arrangements allow institutional investors to access short term liquidity while maintaining exposure to government securities.

Old government bonds posted minimal activity with 342,752 cedis changing hands, down 44.05 percent from the previous week’s 612,570 cedis. The sharp decline in older securities reflects continued investor preference for newly issued instruments with clearer pricing and liquidity characteristics.

Yield movements across the government bond curve showed mixed patterns during the week. The seven year bond yield increased to 15.38 percent from 14.84 percent, while the ten year bond yield declined to 14.68 percent from 15.86 percent. Four year bonds yielded 13.29 percent compared with 13.01 percent the previous week, while fifteen year bonds offered 15.37 percent yields versus 16.15 percent previously.

Trading volumes across bond tenors displayed significant variation. Seven year bonds recorded the highest weekly volume at 603.43 million cedis, followed by eight year bonds at 657.41 million cedis. Four year bonds attracted 435.50 million cedis compared with 681.20 million cedis the previous week, representing a 36.08 percent decline.

The weekly data demonstrates sustained investor appetite for government securities despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges facing Ghana. Treasury bill dominance reflects institutional preference for shorter duration exposures that offer competitive returns while preserving liquidity.

Market participants continue monitoring domestic economic indicators and monetary policy decisions from the Bank of Ghana (BoG). Inflation reached 6.3 percent in November 2025, falling within the central bank’s target range after years of elevated price pressures. Government bond yields remain elevated despite broader improvement in Ghana’s fiscal position.

The GFIM operates under the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) and provides a platform for secondary trading of fixed income securities including treasury bills, government notes and bonds, BoG money market instruments, and corporate bonds. The market uses the Bloomberg E-Bond trading and market surveillance system.

Since its inception in August 2015, the GFIM has traded over one trillion cedis in securities, establishing itself as one of Sub-Saharan Africa’s most liquid fixed income platforms outside South Africa and Nigeria. The market experienced significant disruption in 2023 following implementation of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), when trading volumes dropped from 230 billion cedis in 2022 to 98 billion cedis in 2023. The market then recovered 76 percent in 2024 to reach 174 billion cedis under Ghana’s International Monetary Fund (IMF) supported economic programme.

January 2026 data showed robust market growth, with trading volumes reaching 36.91 billion cedis, representing a 118 percent increase from 16.90 billion cedis traded in January 2025. Government notes and bonds accounted for 61 percent of January volume, while treasury bills contributed 38 percent.

Corporate bond activity remains limited despite efforts to deepen this market segment. Only eight active corporate issuers currently participate in the GFIM following recent exits by several companies. Ghana Cocoa Board leads corporate trading, though participation from other issuers including Letshego Ghana, Bayport Savings and Loans, and Kasapreko remains minimal.

Ghana Stock Exchange Rallies on Friday Closing Week Strong

Roger A. Agana
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Ghana Stock Exchange Rallies on Friday Closing Week Strong

The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) concluded Friday, February 6, 2026, with robust gains across both benchmark indices as the GSE Composite Index surged 101.32 points to close at 9,152.65, marking the highest level of the week.

The GSE Composite Index (GSE-CI) advanced 1.12 percent from Thursday’s closing level of 9,051.33 points in the exchange’s 7,148th trading session. The GSE Financial Stocks Index (GSE-FSI) climbed 45.15 points to settle at 5,036.96, reflecting a 0.90 percent increase from the previous day’s 4,991.81 points.

Friday’s trading volume reached 2,908,434 shares valued at 8.45 million cedis. Market capitalization increased to 180.74 billion cedis at the close of trading, up from 180.58 billion cedis recorded Thursday.

The week recorded dramatic volatility in trading activity, with Wednesday and Thursday posting exceptional volumes before Friday’s moderate session. Monday opened with 1.38 million shares valued at 2.88 million cedis, followed by Tuesday’s 2.40 million shares worth 12.84 million cedis. Wednesday surged to 26.29 million shares valued at 111.55 million cedis, while Thursday peaked at 35.43 million shares worth 156.76 million cedis.

Year to date performance shows the GSE-CI gaining 4.36 percent since January 1, 2026, while the GSE-FSI has advanced 8.39 percent over the same period. The Financial Stocks Index continues outpacing the broader market composite, reflecting sustained investor interest in banking and insurance sector equities.

The strong weekly performance extends the exchange’s positive momentum into February following its remarkable 2025 showing, when it emerged as Africa’s best performing equity market with a 79.43 percent annual return. The GSE-CI closed 2025 at 8,770.25 points on January 2, having surged from 4,888.82 points at the start of that year.

Ghana’s improved macroeconomic fundamentals provide a supportive backdrop for equity market performance. Inflation reached 6.3 percent in November 2025, falling within the Bank of Ghana (BoG) target range after years of elevated price pressures. Public debt stabilized around 45 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) following comprehensive restructuring efforts that removed immediate default risks.

Market analysts attribute the sustained bullish sentiment to factors including inflation returning to central bank targets, the cedi’s relative stability against major currencies, and improved corporate earnings expectations for 2026. Foreign portfolio investment flows significantly influence GSE performance, with Ghana’s frontier market classification attracting specialized emerging market funds seeking higher returns despite elevated risks.

The GSE operates through an automated trading system with continuous trading from 10:00 to 15:00 Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) each working day. Settlement of trades, handled by Bank of Ghana’s Central Securities Depository, occurs on a T plus 3 basis. The exchange comprises several markets including the Main Market for large corporates, Ghana Alternative Market for small and medium sized enterprises, Ghana Fixed Income Market for trading treasury bills and bonds, Commercial Paper Market for short term corporate debt, Green and Sustainable Bond Market, and Over the Counter Market for trading public non-listed securities.

The Ghana Stock Exchange has 42 listed equities from 37 companies, with recent additions including First Atlantic Bank, which listed in December 2025. Recent corporate activity continues strengthening the exchange’s market depth and investor options.

However, maintaining investor confidence through 2026 requires sustained fiscal discipline and policy stability following last year’s exceptional returns. Market participants continue monitoring corporate earnings announcements, monetary policy decisions, and broader economic indicators that influence trading direction. Financial sector stocks dominate GSE market capitalization but face ongoing adjustments as lending rates decline while banks navigate asset quality pressures stemming from the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme impact on government securities portfolios.

Ghana Cycling Federation Honours Twellium for Tour du Ghana Support

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Ghana Cycling Federation Honours Twellium for Tour du Ghana Support

The Ghana Cycling Federation (GCF) and Africa Cycling Network recently visited Twellium Industrial Company at its Medie-Kotoku facility to recognize the manufacturer for its hydration sponsorship during the 2025 Tour du Ghana.

The delegation, led by GCF Secretary General Shaaban Mohammed, presented a citation to Twellium Industrial Company acknowledging the firm’s role as the sole hydration sponsor through its flagship brand, Verna Mineral Water. The company provided water to more than 200 participants throughout the 12-day championship, which ran from November 13 to 24, 2025.

The visit included a comprehensive tour of the Medie-Kotoku production facility, where federation officials observed the manufacturing processes and quality control systems employed by Twellium. The tour provided federation representatives with insight into the company’s adherence to international production standards.

Belinda Selase Kamasah and the Twellium team hosted the delegation during the courtesy visit. The GCF expressed appreciation for both the sponsorship support and the hospitality extended by the company.

The 2025 Tour du Ghana featured 172 cyclists from 12 international clubs representing eight countries across five continents. The championship traversed Greater Accra, Volta, Oti, and Eastern regions, showcasing Ghana’s terrain and tourism potential while promoting cycling development.

Twellium Industrial Company Limited entered the Ghanaian beverage market in 2013 and has grown into a major manufacturer of non-alcoholic beverages, mineral water, biscuits, and confectioneries. The company operates production facilities in Accra, Kumasi, and Burkina Faso.

Verna Mineral Water serves as Twellium’s flagship product and has secured multiple industry recognitions, including Water Brand of the Year at the 2025 National Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Awards. The brand maintains certifications under International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and Halal standards.

The company has supported various sporting and national events through its sponsorship initiatives. In 2025, Verna partnered with the government as the official water sponsor for Civil Service Week and provided hydration support for other major events across Ghana.

The GCF identified the Tour du Ghana as a key preparatory event for future international competitions, including the 2026 Commonwealth Games and 2028 Olympic Games. The federation aims to develop local talent capable of competing at the global level while positioning Ghana as a destination for international cycling events.

The Africa Cycling Network participated in the visit as part of its mandate to promote cycling development across the African continent. The network works with federations and organizations throughout Africa to advance the sport and create opportunities for cyclists at all levels.

GBF President Targets Olympic History for Female Boxers

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GBF President Targets Olympic History for Female Boxers

Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF) President Dauda Fuseni has revealed his commitment to leading the Black Hitters to the Olympic Games for the first time, describing female boxing as very dear to his heart.

Fuseni disclosed this ambition during an exclusive interview at the Ga Mashie Hall during the National Individual Amateur Boxing Championship. The GBF president emphasized his belief in gender balance and his desire to create history by qualifying female boxers for the Olympics, having previously taken them to the Commonwealth Games.

The boxing administrator stated that female boxers deserve equal opportunities with their male counterparts to showcase their abilities on the global stage. He expressed confidence that the Black Hitters, as the national female boxing team is known, possess the talent to put Ghana on the world map in boxing.

Fuseni announced plans for a special tournament dedicated exclusively to female boxers, which will serve as the selection platform for the Black Hitters to complement the national teams. He acknowledged that the Commonwealth Games scheduled for July and August presented a tight timeline, but assured that the federation would work diligently to assemble a competitive female boxing squad to represent the nation.

Notable female boxers in Ghana include Trudy Manteaw of the Ghana Armed Forces, Perpetual Okaidja, Janet Acquah, Faruza Osman who serves in the military, Sarah Apaw, Jill Whyte, Elizabeth Jeffrey, Nancy Bamfo, Faith Afreh, Elizabeth Boakye, and Lois Marie Asiedu.

The GBF president congratulated the 26 male boxers who advanced to the finals of the Individual Championship. The competition revealed promising talents including Samuel Plange, George Dowuona, Mathias Ashitey, Desmond Pappoe, and Ebenezer Ankrah. Northern region teams demonstrated strong potential while officials performed commendably throughout the tournament.

Fuseni explained that the championship finals were rescheduled to late February to allow finalists adequate preparation time. The postponement also enables the federation to secure additional sponsorships and extend invitations to prominent personalities and guests who will witness the young boxers compete.

Ghana secured its most recent Olympic boxing medal through Samuel Takyi, who won bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Games held in 2021. The achievement ended a 29-year medal drought for Ghana, with the previous boxing medal coming from Prince Amartey who won bronze at the Munich 1972 Olympics. Takyi remains the only African boxer to have won a medal at Tokyo 2020.

Several prominent sports officials have confirmed their attendance at the upcoming finals, demonstrating growing institutional support for amateur boxing development in Ghana.

Academic City Students Win WorldStar Global Packaging Award

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Academic City Students Win WorldStar Global Packaging Award

Students from Academic City University have secured top honors in the Sustainable Packaging category at the 2026 WorldStar Global Packaging Awards organized by the World Packaging Organisation (WPO).

The winning team, comprising Mohammed Yasin Abdul Wahab, Sarah Akpedze Amewu, and Jeremy Acquaah, earned recognition for their innovative project titled Eco Haven Waakye Packaging. The design showcased a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, practical functionality, and global market applicability.

The 2026 competition drew 246 entries from 90 educational institutions spanning 23 countries, underscoring the intense competition among emerging packaging design talents worldwide. The WPO, in a congratulatory message, described the awards as a platform that highlights exceptional talent from the next generation of packaging professionals. The organization noted that the Academic City team’s work demonstrated global excellence in sustainable packaging solutions.

This achievement builds on Academic City’s growing reputation in innovation competitions. Earlier, the university placed first runner-up at the Royal Crown Packaging Competition, organized by Royal Crown Packaging Limited in partnership with the Institute of Packaging Ghana. That competition challenges students to develop creative solutions addressing real-world packaging needs.

Dr. Lucy Agyepong, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Academic City University, praised the students for their dedication and innovative thinking. She emphasized that the achievement elevates the profile of Ghanaian youth on the global stage while reflecting the university’s commitment to sustainability and meaningful industry partnerships.

Dr. Agyepong stated that the recognition demonstrates what young Ghanaians can accomplish when provided with appropriate opportunities and support. She added that the success serves as inspiration for the next generation to think beyond traditional boundaries.

The WorldStar Student Awards, administered by the World Packaging Organisation, represents a prestigious global annual competition for undergraduate and graduate students engaged in packaging projects involving structural design, graphic design, or both. Winners receive professional recognition that serves as an introduction and encouragement to pursue careers as packaging professionals.

The 2026 WorldStar Awards winners were announced on January 9, 2026, by the World Packaging Organisation. The competition is recognized as one of the premier global awards in the packaging industry, setting standards for excellence in innovation and sustainability.

Ghana Rugby Launches Programme to Empower Kayayei Women Through Sport

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Ghana Rugby Launches Programme to Empower Kayayei Women Through Sport

The Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has launched the Empower Her Kayayei Programme, a flagship Sport for Development initiative aimed at empowering women aged 18 and above through rugby, with a special focus on head porters working in urban markets across the country.

The programme was officially launched on Saturday, February 1, 2026, at the Agbogbloshie Market Yam Market in Accra, where Ghana Rugby representatives engaged leaders of the Kayayei Association and introduced participants to the transformative potential of rugby.

Built on the pillars of dignity, opportunity and inclusion, the programme uses rugby not just as a sport, but as a platform for confidence building, life skills development, health education and social integration, particularly for women who are often excluded from structured sporting opportunities.

Kayayei are women and young adult females who migrate mainly from the northern regions to major urban centres like Accra in search of economic opportunities. They work as head porters in busy markets, carrying heavy loads for minimal income under challenging conditions. Although known for their resilience and determination, Kayayei women often lack access to education, healthcare and structured personal development opportunities.

The GRFU President, alongside programme directors Kalos and Samira, shared the vision of the Empower Her Programme during the launch. They highlighted that rugby offers pathways beyond playing, including opportunities to become match officials, coaches, volunteers and administrators.

An open dialogue followed, where it was clarified that while rugby welcomes everyone, Rugby Rising and Empower Her intentionally prioritize women to address long-standing underrepresentation and promote equitable access to sport.

Empower Her evolved from the success of Rugby Rising Play Ghana, the GRFU’s grassroots initiative focused on teenage girls in underserved communities and schools. That programme combines menstrual health education, life skills training and T1 Rugby, a non-contact version of the sport. Empower Her represents the natural next step in this pathway, extending support from adolescence into adulthood.

To introduce participants to the sport, rugby matches were screened on television, showcasing Ghana’s international participation and the excitement of the game. The screenings sparked curiosity and enthusiasm among the women.

As part of the programme’s holistic support approach, essential items such as washing powder and sanitary pads were distributed. In a gesture of appreciation, the Kayayei women presented tubers of yam to the GRFU team.

The outreach concluded with a hands-on T1 Rugby session where participants learned basic skills like passing and catching in a safe, non-contact environment. The session was filled with energy, teamwork, laughter and a visible boost in confidence among participants.

The Agbogbloshie launch represents the beginning of a broader rollout expected to reach Kayayei women in other major markets across Accra and potentially expand to other urban centres in Ghana. The programme aims to create sustainable pathways for women’s participation in rugby while addressing broader social development needs.

Through Rugby Rising Ghana and the Empower Her Kayayei Programme, the GRFU continues to broaden participation, strengthen inclusion and position rugby as a powerful tool for empowerment and social development across Ghana.

The initiative aligns with global efforts to use sport as a vehicle for social change and women’s empowerment, particularly in communities where traditional sporting structures have been inaccessible to marginalized groups.

Black Stars Appoint Five Technical Staff Ahead of 2026 World Cup

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Black Stars Appoint Five Technical Staff Ahead of 2026 World Cup

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has strengthened the Black Stars’ technical team with the appointment of five experienced professionals as Ghana prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States in June.

The appointments, announced on Thursday, February 6, 2026, bring a blend of international expertise, tactical innovation and specialized support to complement Head Coach Otto Addo’s existing setup as the four-time African champions seek to surpass their best World Cup performance.

French tactician Alain Ravera has been appointed Assistant Coach, bringing significant international experience to the Black Stars. Ravera previously served as assistant coach with the Guinea national team and worked with French Ligue 1 club AS Monaco, where he contributed to developing young talent and implementing tactical systems at the highest level of European football.

Kim Lars Björkegren, the current head coach of the Black Queens, has also been appointed Assistant Coach for the Black Stars while continuing to lead the women’s national team. The Swedish tactician guided the Black Queens to a bronze medal finish at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and successfully secured qualification for the 2026 WAFCON, which will be held in Morocco next month.

Spanish coach José Daniel Martínez Alfonso has been brought in to strengthen scouting, match preparation and performance analysis. Martínez Alfonso currently serves as assistant coach and video analyst with Major League Soccer (MLS) side Atlanta United, where he has worked on tactical analysis and opponent profiling at one of North America’s most progressive clubs.

The technical setup has also been reinforced with the appointment of Winfried Schäfer as Technical Advisor. The experienced German coach brings decades of coaching experience across multiple continents, including previous work with Cameroon and Jamaica at major tournaments. Schäfer will provide strategic guidance and tactical input to support the head coach’s decision making.

Belgian psychologist Kris Perquy has been added to support players’ mental preparation, focusing on performance psychology, stress management and team cohesion. Mental conditioning has become increasingly recognized as critical for tournament success at the highest level of international football.

Belgian analyst Gregory De Grauwe completes the appointments as Video Analyst, tasked with providing detailed tactical breakdowns of opponents, set piece analysis and individual player performance metrics to inform training and match strategy.

GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum confirmed that the Government of Ghana has agreed to cover the remuneration of the five additional technical team members, marking a significant policy shift from previous practice where only the head coach’s salary was funded by the state.

Speaking on Akoma 87.9 FM, Twum explained that the funding arrangement is temporary and applies only to the duration of the coaches’ engagement with the national team for the World Cup campaign. He defended the appointments against criticism, emphasizing that the expertise brought by the new technical members would enhance Ghana’s competitiveness at the global stage.

The appointments follow longstanding GFA practice of expanding the technical team whenever Ghana qualifies for major tournaments, allowing the association to bring in specialized expertise for specific competitions while maintaining a leaner structure for routine qualifiers and friendlies.

Ghana have been drawn in Group G alongside Panama, England and Croatia at the 2026 World Cup. The Black Stars are aiming to surpass their best World Cup finish, reaching the quarter-finals at the 2010 tournament in South Africa before narrowly losing to Uruguay on penalties in a match that remains etched in Ghana’s football history.

The national team is expected to regroup in March for international friendly matches against Austria and Germany as part of preparations for the June tournament. The friendlies will provide Head Coach Otto Addo and his expanded technical team an opportunity to implement new tactical systems and evaluate squad depth ahead of the World Cup opener.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first edition featuring 48 teams and will be co-hosted across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico and the United States. Ghana qualified for the tournament after successfully navigating the African qualifying series, securing their place among the continent’s representatives at football’s most prestigious competition.

Government to Pay Salaries of New Black Stars Technical Staff

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Government to Pay Salaries of New Black Stars Technical Staff

The Government of Ghana has agreed to pay the remuneration of five additional technical team members appointed to support the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a departure from previous practice where only the head coach’s salary was covered by the state.

Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director Henry Asante Twum confirmed the arrangement, explaining that it is temporary and applies only to the duration of the coaches’ engagement with the national team for the World Cup campaign.

The GFA announced on Thursday, February 6, 2026, that it had strengthened the Black Stars’ technical setup with the appointment of five highly experienced professionals as Ghana prepares for the global showpiece to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

French tactician Alain Ravera has been named Assistant Coach, bringing significant international experience from previous roles with the Guinea national team and AS Monaco. He will work alongside Kim Lars Björkegren, the current head coach of the Black Queens, who has also been appointed Assistant Coach while continuing to lead the women’s national team.

Björkegren guided the Black Queens to a bronze medal finish at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and successfully secured qualification for the 2026 WAFCON, which will be held in Morocco next month. The Swedish tactician will combine both roles during the World Cup period.

Spanish coach José Daniel Martínez Alfonso has been appointed to improve scouting, match preparation and performance analysis. He currently serves as assistant coach and video analyst with Major League Soccer (MLS) side Atlanta United.

The technical setup has also been strengthened with the appointment of Winfried Schäfer as Technical Advisor. The experienced German coach will provide strategic guidance to the team. Belgian psychologist Kris Perquy has been added to support players’ mental preparation, while Belgian analyst Gregory De Grauwe has joined as Video Analyst.

The appointments are strictly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign and follow longstanding GFA practice of expanding the technical team whenever Ghana qualifies for major tournaments. The five professionals will work alongside the existing staff led by Head Coach Otto Addo.

Speaking on Akoma 87.9 FM, Twum defended the decision against criticism that the appointments represent wasteful spending, emphasizing that the expertise brought by the new technical members would enhance Ghana’s competitiveness at the global stage.

The government’s decision to cover salaries for the additional technical staff represents a significant policy shift. In February 2025, Twum stated that apart from the head coach of the Black Stars, none of the coaches of the other national teams were remunerated by the state, with the GFA funding all other technical personnel.

Ghana have been drawn in a challenging group alongside Panama, England and Croatia at the 2026 World Cup. The Black Stars are aiming to surpass their best World Cup finish, the quarter-final appearance at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

The national team is expected to regroup in March for international friendly matches against Austria and Germany as part of preparations for the summer tournament. The appointments signal Ghana’s determination to assemble a comprehensive support structure capable of competing at the highest level.

Ghana and Zambia Sign 10 MoUs to Deepen Bilateral Relations

Roger A. Agana
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Ghana and Zambia Sign 10 MoUs to Deepen Bilateral Relations

Ghana and Zambia have signed 10 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and elevated their bilateral relationship to a comprehensive economic partnership, aiming to deepen trade, investment and productive cooperation following President John Dramani Mahama’s three-day state visit to Zambia.

The MoUs were signed on Thursday, February 5, 2026, following bilateral talks between Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and President Mahama at the Zambian State House in Lusaka. According to a communique released on Friday, the two leaders committed to enhancing private sector participation, facilitating the movement of goods and capital, and promoting joint ventures for value addition, industrial development and job creation.

The MoUs included an agreement on the Waiver of Visa Requirements for Holders of Diplomatic, Officials, Service and Ordinary Passports. Other agreements covered diaspora cooperation, disaster risk management, an MoU between the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) and the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), and an MoU between the Ghana Standards Authority and the Zambia Bureau of Standards focusing on standardisation, conformity assessment and training.

The rest included an addendum to the MoU on Military Defence between Ghana and Zambia, the signing of a Bilateral Air Service Agreement between Ghana and Zambia, an MoU on Cooperation in the field of Health, and an agreement between Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority.

Addressing the Zambian National Assembly, President Mahama said the MoU on Waiver of Visa Requirements was an important step towards the free movement of people on the African continent. The agreement paves the way for visa-free travel for all categories of passport holders between Ghana and Zambia.

Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Zambia’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Rodney Siumba, signed the agreements on behalf of their respective countries alongside other ministers.

The communique noted that the two leaders expressed satisfaction with the successful conclusion of business transactions valued at seven million United States dollars between Zambian and Ghanaian financial technology (fintech) companies during a joint business forum. They also noted ongoing business negotiations estimated at 65 million dollars, with the potential to generate about 8,000 jobs in both countries.

The two presidents identified priority areas of cooperation, including agriculture and food systems transformation with a focus on agro-processing and value addition, energy cooperation particularly renewable energy and power trade, trade and investment promotion, as well as financial technology and digital financial services.

President Mahama emphasized that Ghana and Zambia share similar economic characteristics, having both experienced economic downturns in recent years that necessitated debt restructuring. He noted that enhanced economic partnership would allow both countries to share lived experiences in real time.

President Mahama told the Zambian National Assembly that inflation in Ghana has declined sharply from over 23.4 percent at the end of 2024 to 3.8 percent in January 2026, and currency stability has been restored, with the Ghanaian cedi appreciating by 32 percent and ranking among the five best-performing currencies in 2025.

President Hichilema expressed confidence that the teams tasked to implement the agreements and MoUs would deliver results, stating that in Africa, we like to say things, but the two of us want to get things done. He commended President Mahama for leading Ghana’s economic turnaround.

The two presidents emphasized the importance of strengthening African-led partnerships amid uncertainty in the global environment and persistent economic challenges facing developing countries. They called for expanding intra-African trade, mobilising African capital and enhancing policy coordination.

During the visit, President Mahama also paid homage to Zambia’s founding leader, Dr Kenneth David Kaunda, by laying a wreath at his tomb in recognition of his role in Africa’s liberation struggle. The visit reinforced the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between Ghana and Zambia, bonds forged during the historic struggle for Africa’s political emancipation under the visionary leadership of Dr Kwame Nkrumah and Dr Kaunda.

President Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama departed Lusaka on Friday afternoon and were seen off at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport by President Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema, marking the end of what both sides described as a productive diplomatic engagement.

Ghana Launches One Humanity Beach Soccer Cup at Accra Stadium

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Ghana Launches One Humanity Beach Soccer Cup at Accra Stadium

The One Humanity Beach Soccer Cup Ghana 2026 was officially launched on Friday at the Accra Sports Stadium Press Centre, marking a significant step towards hosting an international beach soccer festival focused on unity, inclusion and shared human values.

The launch was formally declared by Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), who described the event as timely and strategic for Ghana’s sports development and tourism potential.

Laboma Beach in Accra will host the inaugural edition of the tournament from May 8 to 10, 2026, bringing together four men’s national teams in a round-robin format. Ghana and Nigeria have been confirmed as participating nations, with two additional teams to be announced in the coming weeks.

The event is organised under the umbrella of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) led One Humanity Campaign, which promotes unity, inclusion and shared human values through sport and cultural exchange.

Banasco Nuhu Seidu, Executive Director of NASCO Feeding Minds and Lead Organiser, said the tournament represents a long-term vision for sport in Ghana. He emphasized that the initiative goes beyond competitive football to create lasting opportunities for youth development and community engagement.

Yaw Gyamfi Kusi Awere, Chairman of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Beach Soccer Committee, said the competition would elevate the sport locally and provide vital international exposure for Ghanaian players while strengthening the country’s place within the global beach soccer ecosystem.

Alongside the tournament, a series of beach soccer clinics, youth activities and community engagement initiatives will be organised for children and young people from disadvantaged communities, using beach soccer as a tool to foster peace, inclusion, respect and mutual understanding.

The organisers highlighted that the event would activate Ghana’s coastline while showcasing the country’s readiness to host world-class international sporting events. The tournament is expected to attract regional and international attention, positioning Ghana as an emerging destination for beach soccer competitions in West Africa.

Beach soccer has grown significantly across Africa in recent years, with several countries investing in coastal sports infrastructure and national team development. The One Humanity Beach Soccer Cup represents Ghana’s entry into this expanding sporting landscape and provides a platform for local talent to compete against established beach soccer nations.

The May 8 to 10 dates position the tournament strategically within the international beach soccer calendar, allowing participating nations to prepare adequately while capitalising on favourable weather conditions along Ghana’s coastline.

Further details regarding ticketing, broadcast arrangements and the announcement of the remaining two participating nations are expected to be released by the organising committee in the coming weeks.

Ivory Coast Unveils US$206 Billion Development Plan Targeting Upper-Middle-Income Status

Roger A. Agana
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Ivory Coast Unveils US$206 Billion Development Plan Targeting Upper-Middle-Income Status

The Ivorian government unveiled its National Development Plan (PND) for 2026 to 2030 on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, projecting total investment of 114,838.5 billion CFA francs, equivalent to approximately 206.5 billion United States dollars, to accelerate the country’s economic and social transformation.

The new plan targets average economic growth of 7.2 percent over the 2026 to 2030 period, according to government spokesperson Amadou Coulibaly. The investment rate is expected to reach 25.4 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2026 before rising to 34.5 percent of GDP by 2030.

The private sector is expected to provide 70.2 percent of total investment, while the public sector will contribute 29.8 percent, with public financing needs estimated at 38,000 billion CFA francs. This participatory approach has helped clarify priorities in governance, structural transformation of the economy, strengthening human capital, innovation, technology and private sector development.

The overall investment volume represents an increase of about 95 percent compared with the PND 2021 to 2025, which has already achieved an execution rate of 77.1 percent with 45,500 billion CFA francs invested out of the planned 59,000 billion.

Through the implementation of the new plan, the government aims to build a stable, ambitious and united nation and to elevate Côte d’Ivoire to upper-middle-income country status by 2030, according to Coulibaly.

The 2026 to 2030 National Development Plan rests on six pillars, including security, agricultural modernization, promotion of private investment, development of human capital, development of strategic infrastructure and promotion of good governance.

On the operational level, the plan relies on a major reform matrix covering 22 priority areas and includes a portfolio of flagship projects spanning all sectors of the economy. The government has also strengthened a monitoring and evaluation framework to support implementation.

The 2030 vision aims to increase the average income per capita from 1,722 dollars in 2010 to 2020 to approximately 4,000 dollars by 2030, while making economic growth more inclusive. The plan also targets reducing the national poverty rate to less than 20 percent by 2030.

The Prime Minister highlighted the progress made since 2011, with a decrease in the poverty rate from 55 percent in 2011 to 37.5 percent in 2021, despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions.

The Council of Ministers highlighted social and generational objectives in its official statement, noting that the new 2026 to 2030 National Development Plan takes into account the legitimate aspirations of young people for a better future and the imperatives of inclusive and sustainable development.

Priority areas include improving productivity, particularly in the agricultural sector, promoting international trade, integrating into global value chains and strengthening the business environment to attract more foreign direct investment. The plan also emphasizes social protection, universal employment including for vulnerable and informal workers, and a strengthened partnership between the state and the private sector in developing human capital.

Public financing will be mobilized notably through the financial market and a future consultative group, according to government sources. Since 2012, Côte d’Ivoire has implemented three National Development Plans to support its economic transformation and has become one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, with average growth rates exceeding 7 percent in recent years.

The adoption of the 2026 to 2030 National Development Plan positions Côte d’Ivoire as a key player in economic development in West Africa and demonstrates the country’s commitment to achieving its long-term development objectives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Free Primary Healthcare Policy to Roll Out in Deprived Districts

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Free Primary Healthcare Policy to Roll Out in Deprived Districts

The Ministry of Health has concluded stakeholder consultations toward finalizing the Free Primary Healthcare policy, engaging media, civil society organizations in the health sector and development partners to gather input for effective implementation of the initiative expected to roll out in the first week of March 2026.

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh described the consultations as a listening exercise aimed at gathering technical input from frontline health professionals to refine the policy ahead of its submission to Cabinet and Parliament for approval.

The Director of Policy, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (PPME) at the Ministry of Health, Dr Belinda Afriyie Nimako, said the policy builds on existing primary healthcare structures, including Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, health centres, and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), while introducing reforms aimed at expanding access to essential health services.

The Free Primary Healthcare initiative is a major pledge outlined in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party’s 2024 manifesto and is anchored in the Health Sector Medium-Term Development Plan covering 2025 to 2029.

An amount of GH¢1.5 billion has been earmarked for the initiative, which will focus on enhanced promotive and preventive care to ensure early detection and effective management of diseases, according to government budget allocations announced in November 2025.

The policy is expected to initially target deprived and underserved districts across the country, where access to healthcare remains a significant challenge due to infrastructure deficits, staffing shortages and financial barriers preventing many citizens from accessing medical services.

Currently, only about 56 percent of the population is enrolled in the NHIS, with many Ghanaians, especially from certain parts of the country, not covered by health insurance, the minister noted during earlier stakeholder engagements.

Under the new initiative, citizens will gain access to promotive, preventive and basic curative services at no cost, with the shift expected to reduce the number of severe cases that reach hospitals, especially those related to non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and some cancers.

Primary healthcare currently accounts for nearly 80 percent of the country’s health needs, making it a critical area for investment, the Health Minister emphasized.

The 2026 national budget allocated GH¢34 billion to the health sector, representing a 9.4 percent increase over the 2023 budget and more than 11 percent of total government expenditure for 2026. The allocation includes GH¢11 billion for the NHIS and GH¢16.7 billion for personnel costs.

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCares, established to tackle non-communicable diseases such as cancer, hypertension and diabetes, is now fully operational with a board inaugurated and a secretariat functioning, with GH¢2.3 billion allocated to support patients.

The government also announced plans to construct three new regional hospitals in the Savannah, Oti and Western North regions beginning in 2026, with a funding allocation of GH¢600 million. Additionally, 700 medical doctors are expected to be distributed to various parts of the country to enhance healthcare delivery.

The Free Primary Healthcare policy represents a significant step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Ghana, with implementation expected to remove cost barriers that currently prevent many citizens, particularly in rural and deprived areas, from accessing essential healthcare services.

The Ministry of Health indicated that detailed implementation guidelines and operational frameworks will be finalized following Cabinet and Parliamentary approval of the policy document.

Ghana targets women, youth for AfCFTA-driven development, minister says

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Ghana targets women, youth for AfCFTA-driven development, minister says

Ghanaian Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare said on Thursday that the government is positioning women and youth to leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) for their development.

Speaking at the ongoing Africa Prosperity Dialogues, Ofosu-Adjare said the efforts form part of the country’s agenda to advance gender equity and inclusive growth by integrating women into trade, agribusiness, and industrial value chains, with a strong emphasis on agro-processing and export readiness.

 “This strategy recognizes women’s economic empowerment as a vital driver of industrialization and competitiveness under the AfCFTA,” the minister added.

 She said the ministry has so far sensitized more than 2,800 businesses on procedures and market access and provided specialized export-readiness support through partnerships with international organizations.

Ofosu-Adjare added that nationwide enterprise development programs have also equipped more than 155,000 entrepreneurs with skills, provided start-up capital to over 6,000, and improved access to finance, mainly for women- and youth-led micro, small and medium enterprises.

The Africa Prosperity Dialogues have been held annually since 2023 by the Africa Prosperity Network, a continent-wide independent think tank based in Ghana.

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