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Scholarship Secretariat Scandal:Dr Kingsley Agyemang Under Fire Over £27,900-Per-Year UK High School Scholarship Deal

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Scholarship Secretariat Scandal:Dr Kingsley Agyemang Under Fire Over £27,900-Per-Year UK High School Scholarship Deal

Scholarship Secretariat Scandal:Dr Kingsley Agyemang Under Fire Over Alleged £27,900-Per-Year UK High School Scholarship Deal

The Ghana Scholarship Secretariat has come under scrutiny following leaked documents that have raised questions over a scholarship arrangement approved during the tenure of its immediate past Registrar, Dr Kingsley Agyemang, who is now the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South.

The documents, which have circulated widely, indicate that the Secretariat approved government sponsorship for a 16-year-old student to attend a private high school in the United Kingdom, a decision critics argue may have fallen outside the institution’s mandate.

According to the documents, the scholarship was granted in 2022 for a two-year period, with the government reportedly paying tuition fees of £27,900 annually for the beneficiary’s studies at the London-based high school.

The approval document, which bears the signature of Dr Agyemang, stated that the Government of Ghana was sponsoring the student’s education. Details contained in the documents also showed that the beneficiary was a female born on September 20, 2006.

The matter has triggered public debate, with questions being raised over the basis for awarding the scholarship and whether it aligned with the responsibilities of the Scholarship Secretariat.

The documents were reportedly shared by Ghana’s High Commission in the United Kingdom. Sabah Zita Benson, who disclosed the documents, expressed concern over the development and called for accountability over what she described as a questionable decision.

“This particular scholarship was given to a 16-year-old to attend a private school (high school level) that will prepare her for a good college, which is outside the mandate of the Scholarship Secretariat,” she said.

Ms Benson added that although efforts could be made to address the issue, those responsible should be held accountable.

“Eventually, we shall clear the mess, but I do hope someone is accountable soon,” she stated.

The controversy has placed renewed attention on the operations of the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat and the decisions taken during Dr Kingsley Agyemang’s leadership.

Dr Agyemang, who previously served as Registrar of Scholarships before entering Parliament as the representative for Abuakwa South, has not publicly responded to the concerns raised in relation to the leaked documents at the time of publication.

The development is expected to fuel further discussions about transparency, accountability, and the criteria used in awarding government-funded scholarships.

 

Stablecon Names Yellow Card CEO Chris Maurice to Its 2026 Stablecoins Most Influential List

Prosper Kay
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Stablecon Names Yellow Card CEO Chris Maurice to Its 2026 Stablecoins Most Influential List

Chris Maurice, CEO and Co-Founder of Yellow Card, has been named to the Stablecoins Most Influential 2026 list, this is Stablecon’s annual recognition of the individuals shaping the global stablecoin ecosystem.

Stablecon is a leading global event and media platform for the stablecoin ecosystem. The Stablecoins Most Influential list is a premier industry recognition spanning six regions and multiple categories, from issuers and builders to policymakers. The list uses a five-factor framework to evaluate influence, impact, innovation, momentum, and peer recognition, serving as a trusted marker of leadership.

Chris joins a distinguished 2026 cohort that includes Emilie Choi, Coinbase President and COO, Patrick Collison, Stripe Co-founder and CEO, Charles Cascarilla, Paxos CEO and Co-Founder, and Larry Fink, BlackRock Chairman and CEO, among other leaders shaping the future of digital finance.

Through his work, Chris has become a leading voice for Stablecoin adoption across the globe, delivering keynotes at conferences attended by heads of state, advising ministers and financial regulators, and earning recognition on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list (2023), a track record that has so far landed him on international outlets including CNBC, BBC, Bloomberg, Forbes, and Business Insider.

“Many years ago, we took a bet on Stablecoins when few people could see what the future of finance would look like,” said Chris Maurice, Co-Founder and CEO of Yellow Card. “Today, being celebrated among the leaders of this industry tells me that bet is paying off. Conviction is the only currency that matters before the world catches up to you.”

Under Chris’s leadership, Yellow Card has facilitated over $7.5 billion in the last 12 months, further expanding the business across Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and North America. The company has raised significant capital from investors including Polychain Capital, Blockchain Capital, and Coinbase Ventures, and forged strategic partnerships with global players including Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal.

The group’s numerous accolades include winning the Grand Prix in the Payments category at the Money20/20 USA Awards (2025); and recently being named to the inaugural Fortune Crypto Innovators list (2026).

Chris remains steadfast in his mission to lead the charge in connecting businesses across global markets through Yellow Card’s world-class stablecoin infrastructure.

Dr. Adelaide Araba Siaw Agyepong, CEO of African Agribusiness Consortium (AAC) and Executive Director of Jospong Group, Welcomes 118 AAC Scholars Home from Russia

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Dr. Adelaide Araba Siaw Agyepong, CEO of African Agribusiness Consortium (AAC) and Executive Director of Jospong Group, Welcomes 118 AAC Scholars Home from Russia

Dr. Mrs. Adelaide Araba Siaw Agyepong, CEO of the African Agribusiness Consortium (AAC) and Executive Director of the Jospong Group of Companies, on Thursday welcomed home
118 young Ghanaian scholars sponsored by the Jospong Group and AAC to pursue graduate studies in Russia.

The scholars arrived at the Accra International Airport after successfully completing two years of post-graduate studies at the People’s Friendship University in Russia (RUDN University)

The programme, a flagship initiative of the Jospong Group through AAC, focused on Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, Waste Management and Sustainable Development. It is designed to build a new generation of skilled professionals to drive Ghana’s agricultural modernization agenda.

“Investment In Human Capital For Ghana’s Future”
Addressing the media at the welcome ceremony, Dr. Mrs. Adelaide Siaw Agyepong said the decision to invest in agriculture education followed Jospong Group’s growing involvement in the sector.

“By the grace of God, after several years of contributing significantly to Ghana in sanitation and waste management transformation, the Jospong Group made another bold decision a few years ago to support the transformation of Ghana’s agricultural sector,” she said.

“As we became more involved in the agriculture sector, we realised that Ghana has enormous agricultural potential. Transforming the sector would require the active participation of a new generation of skilled and passionate young people. That is why, in partnership with RUDN University in Russia, we sponsored 118 young students to pursue graduate studies in agriculture and environmental sciences and technology.”

She expressed confidence that the scholars would impact the sector beyond their personal growth.

“I believe their investment will not only be to the benefit of the individuals, but will also contribute to the backbone of the agriculture sector and the development of our country. We are confident they will become change-agents in their respective fields.”

Partnerships Acknowledged

Dr. Mrs. Adelaide Siaw Agyepong thanked the Executive Chairman of Jospong Group of Companies Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong and RUDN University in Russia, Ghana’s mission in Moscow, Ghana’s Ministry of Agriculture and other individuals and institutions for their support during the scholars’ stay.

“I say thank you to the People’s Friendship University of Russia, RUDN University, for being a valued partner in this journey, and to the Embassy of Ghana in the Russian Federation for their unwavering support and commitment to the welfare of our students throughout their two years of studies. Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong and the Minister of Agriculture have been very supportive to the success of this initiative ”

Scholars Pledge To Apply Skills In Climate And Transport

The returning scholars said they are ready to apply their training to national challenges.

Mr. Saviour Kweku Dotsey, President of the Jospong Scholars RUDN Group, said he built skills in climate project management and will deploy them for the country.

“We have built skills in climate project management and we will use our skills to contribute to climate emissions initiatives for both the Jospong Group and the country,” Mr. Dotsey said.

Another beneficiary, Charlotte Opoku Gyamfua, who specialised in carbon reduction in the transport sector, said her expertise will target emissions in Ghana’s growing transport industry.

“I specialised in carbon reduction in the transport sector. I will use my skills to help manage the carbon emissions in the transport sector and help in climate related data collection and calculations in the transportation sector,” Ms. Gyamfua said.

Deploying Knowledge For National Development
Upon their return, the 118 beneficiaries are expected to deploy their expertise to address challenges in food security, rural development, waste management and climate-smart agriculture.

The Jospong Group, through AAC, says the scholarship programme forms part of its long-term commitment to education and sustainable development, and to positioning Ghanaian youth at the forefront of the nation’s economic transformation.

Clydestone Ghana Sues MTN Over Intellectual Property Theft

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Clydestone Ghana Sues MTN Over Intellectual Property Theft

Clydestone Ghana Plc has initiated legal proceedings against MTN Ghana, MTN Group Limited and MobileMoney Fintech Limited, alleging that the companies unlawfully used its proprietary intellectual property to develop and commercialise MTN’s mobile money platform without authorisation or compensation.

The company filed a writ of summons and statement of claim at the Commercial Division of the High Court in Accra on July 27, 2026, according to a regulatory filing submitted to the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE).

At the centre of the dispute is work Clydestone says it was commissioned to undertake by MTN in 2007 as part of plans to launch a mobile money business in Ghana. The company claims it developed a comprehensive commercial and operational framework for the proposed platform, including the commercial model, operational architecture, implementation methodology and supporting business case.

According to Clydestone, the work was personally authored by its founder and Group Chief Executive Officer, Paul Jacquaye.

The company alleges that the engagement was undertaken on the understanding that a non-disclosure agreement and memorandum of understanding would be executed. However, it contends that despite repeated requests, the agreements were never signed and MTN subsequently used its proprietary work, commercial methodology and operational intelligence without authorisation or payment.

Clydestone further claims that elements of the operational architecture and commercial model later implemented in MTN Mobile Money Ghana and subsequently deployed across several African markets were materially derived from the commissioned work.

The alleged unauthorised use, the company said, has continued since the launch of MTN Mobile Money Ghana in 2009. However, Clydestone said it only obtained independently verifiable evidence of the commercial scale of the platform after reviewing the GSMA State of the Industry Report on Mobile Money 2026 and MTN Ghana’s 2025 Annual Report, which disclosed approximately 19.3 million active Mobile Money users and annual revenue of about GH¢6.0 billion.

Following the publication of those reports, Clydestone said it reviewed its contemporaneous records relating to the 2007 engagement and concluded there were sufficient grounds to commence legal proceedings.

The company stated that it has not received any payment or acknowledgement from any of the defendants regarding the commissioned work since December 2007. It also noted that pre-action correspondence sent by its legal counsel in 2026 received no substantive response.

Clydestone is seeking declarations, damages, equitable remedies and any further relief the court considers appropriate.

The company’s Board of Directors said it unanimously authorised the commencement of the legal action and assured shareholders that the litigation will not affect its operations, customers or ongoing business activities.

MTN Group Limited had not commented on the allegations at the time of publication. The claims made by Clydestone have not been tested in court.

NPP labels Sedina Tamakloe acquittal a ‘travesty of justice’, alleges politicisation of justice system

Prosper Kay
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NPP labels Sedina Tamakloe acquittal a ‘travesty of justice’, alleges politicisation of justice system

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strongly criticised the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit and discharge former Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) Chief Executive Officer Sedina Christine Tamakloe Attionu, describing the ruling as a “travesty of justice” and alleging that it reflects a politicised justice system.

In a statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the NPP said it received the appellate court’s decision with “utter shock and dismay,” arguing that the acquittal was inconsistent with the evidence that led to Tamakloe Attionu’s conviction by the High Court in April 2024.

Tamakloe Attionu had been convicted on multiple counts, including stealing, causing financial loss to the state, money laundering and breaches of the Public Procurement Act, and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment.

The NPP stated that the former MASLOC CEO was tried over a five-year period and that the High Court found that her conduct between 2013 and 2016 had resulted in significant financial losses to the state. The party also noted that she was convicted in absentia after leaving Ghana during the trial and was later extradited from the United States before returning to Ghana in June 2026.

According to the party, the trial court’s judgment contained detailed findings on alleged fraudulent disbursements, unaccounted-for funds and the diversion of MASLOC resources, and it questioned how a conviction based on what it described as substantial evidence could be overturned.

The NPP further alleged that the acquittal was politically motivated and formed part of a broader pattern in which individuals associated with the governing party had benefited from prosecutorial decisions since January 2025. It argued that the decision undermined public confidence in the administration of justice and the fight against corruption.

In its statement, the party called on the Attorney-General to provide a public account of cases involving persons affiliated with the governing party that have been discontinued, withdrawn or otherwise terminated since January 2025, together with the reasons for those decisions.

The NPP also urged the Judicial Council and the leadership of the Judiciary to take steps to restore public confidence in the justice system, saying the Court of Appeal’s ruling had raised serious concerns about the consistency and fairness of judicial outcomes.

The party said it would pursue all lawful avenues, including seeking a review of the appellate court’s decision before the Supreme Court, where applicable, to ensure accountability in cases involving the alleged misuse of public funds.

Bishop Dr. Michael Newman-Godful Appointed Vice President of Christian Leadership Network

Prosper Kay
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Bishop Dr. Michael Newman-Godful Appointed Vice President of Christian Leadership Network

Christian Leadership Network has announced the appointment of Bishop Dr. Michael Newman-Godful, widely known as Dr. G., as its Vice President.

His appointment brings to the organization a distinguished combination of pastoral leadership, academic excellence, STEM education, public service, financial expertise, international teaching experience, and community development.

As Christian Leadership Network continues to develop its worldwide structure, the appointment of Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful reflects the organization’s commitment to building a leadership team grounded in Christian character, professional competence, global experience, and a genuine dedication to serving humanity.

The President and Founder of Christian Leadership Network, Apostle Collins Obeng-Agyare, described Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful as an accomplished Christian leader whose experience in ministry, education, technology, finance, and public service will strengthen the network’s mission to promote unity, integrity, accountability, and responsible Christian leadership worldwide.
A Strong Foundation in Education

Bishop Dr. Michael Newman-Godful began his educational journey in Ghana, West Africa.

He attended Obuasi Methodist School, where he completed his elementary and middle school education and demonstrated an early commitment to academic excellence.

After briefly attending Tweneboah Kodua Secondary School, he transferred to Kumasi High School, where he completed his secondary education in 1993.

Motivated by a passion for teaching and developing young minds, he proceeded to a teacher training college and earned a professional teaching certificate. This qualification enabled him to begin his career as a Mathematics and General Science teacher at the junior high school level.

For two years, he worked directly with young students, helping them develop confidence and interest in mathematics and science. His early classroom experience established the foundation for what would later become an extensive career spanning elementary, secondary, university, technical, and professional education.

Seeking deeper academic preparation, Dr. Newman-Godful enrolled at the University of Cape Coast, one of Ghana’s leading institutions for teacher education. He earned a Bachelor of Education degree, strengthening his understanding of instructional methods, educational theory, curriculum development, and classroom practice.
Immigration to the United States and Professional Advancement

Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful later immigrated to the United States, where he continued to pursue academic and professional advancement.

While adjusting to a new country and professional environment, he earned a master’s degree in finance. This field of study expanded his understanding of financial management, economic systems, risk assessment, investment principles, and organizational decision-making.

He subsequently gained extensive experience in the insurance industry, serving as an insurance adjuster and appraiser for major companies, including Farmers Insurance and Progressive Insurance.

In these positions, he developed valuable skills in:

Claims assessment
Investigation
Valuation
Customer service
Documentation
Negotiation
Regulatory compliance

His professional journey also included four years of service as a financial worker for the State of Washington. This role gave him practical exposure to public-sector operations, government financial procedures, accountability systems, and services affecting individuals and families.

His work experience in the United States has therefore extended beyond education and ministry. It has included significant involvement in insurance, finance, public service, technology, institutional management, and workforce development.

These varied experiences have equipped him with a broad understanding of the responsibilities involved in leading organizations and serving diverse populations.
Doctoral Achievement and University Teaching

In 2013, Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful achieved an important academic milestone by earning a Doctorate in Management, specializing in Information Systems and Technology, from Franklin University in Ohio.

His doctoral studies prepared him to examine the relationship between management, technology, employee behavior, organizational performance, and the modern workplace.

As part of his academic contribution, he completed and published a dissertation titled:

“Employee-Related Activities that Affect Productivity: The Role of the Internet.”

The dissertation examined how employee use of the internet and related workplace behaviors can influence productivity. His research contributed to discussions concerning technology management, employee performance, workplace policy, and organizational effectiveness.

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Newman-Godful transitioned into higher education and became an instructor at Western Governors University, where he taught courses in business informatics and financial management.

He later joined the business department at Grand Canyon University as an adjunct professor, further expanding his experience in university-level teaching.

His academic career has demonstrated his ability to connect theory with practice and to teach students from different educational and professional backgrounds.
International Teaching Experience

Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful’s teaching experience is not limited to Ghana and the United States.

In 2017, he had an enriching international teaching assignment at Jiangnan University in Wuxi, China, where he taught Principles of Finance.

This experience deepened his understanding of global education, intercultural communication, international business, and the importance of preparing students to function in an increasingly connected world.

His international exposure aligns closely with the global mission of Christian Leadership Network. As the organization develops representation in different countries, his experience working across cultures will be valuable in supporting international partnerships, educational initiatives, leadership development, and country-level coordination.
Leadership in STEM and Career and Technical Education

In 2015, Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful began another significant chapter of his career when he joined a Washington State school district as a Career and Technical Education (CTE) educator.

After obtaining the necessary teaching degree and state licensure, he focused on computer applications and STEM education.

He currently serves as a CTE educator in the Bethel School District in Washington State, where he teaches Empowering Your Future, a computer applications course designed to prepare students for academic, professional, and technological success.

Through this role, he helps students develop practical skills in:

Computer applications
Digital literacy
Career planning
Problem-solving
Communication
Workforce readiness

He has also helped build partnerships with major technology and industry organizations, including:

Boeing
Amazon
Google

These partnerships expose students to real-world career possibilities and connect academic learning with opportunities in engineering, aviation, computing, technology, business, and other STEM-related fields.
Author and Advocate for STEM Education

Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful is also an author whose work focuses on expanding access to STEM education.

His first book, Integrating STEM Education in Elementary Schools, reflects his belief that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics should be introduced to children at an early age.

His second book, Harnessing Local Resources for STEM Integration in African Communities, emphasizes developing STEM education within African communities by using locally available materials, knowledge, environments, and cultural resources.

Through his writing, teaching, and leadership, he advocates for an inclusive approach to STEM education that allows students from different economic and social backgrounds to participate meaningfully in scientific and technological development.
Founder of Margaret E. Gemstone STEM Academy

Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful is the founder and owner of the Margaret E. Gemstone STEM Academy in Ghana.

Through the academy, he is helping to develop future generations of African scientists, innovators, technology professionals, educators, engineers, and entrepreneurs.

The academy reflects his long-term commitment to investing in children and young people and his belief that quality STEM education can transform families, communities, and nations.
A Minister of the Gospel

Alongside his distinguished professional and academic career, Bishop Dr. Michael Newman-Godful is an ordained minister of the gospel with years of pastoral and ministry experience.

He received formal biblical and ministry training from the All Nations School of the Word in the Netherlands in 2010.

He currently serves as an Associate Pastor at International Christian Charity Missionary Chapel (ICCMC) in Tacoma, Washington State.

His pastoral journey has involved:

Preaching
Teaching
Counseling
Mentoring
Discipleship
Prayer
Leadership development
Caring for individuals and families

Combining Ministry and Professional Experience

One of Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful’s greatest strengths is his ability to combine pastoral leadership with professional experience.

His background includes:

Pastoral ministry and biblical teaching
STEM and Career and Technical Education
University-level instruction
Public-sector financial service
Insurance adjusting and appraisal
Information systems and technology
Financial management
Organizational management
International education
Academic research and publishing
Youth development
Community engagement

This combination of experiences makes him exceptionally qualified to serve as Vice President of an international Christian leadership organization.
His Role as Vice President

As Vice President of Christian Leadership Network, Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful is expected to work closely with President Apostle Collins Obeng-Agyare and other international leaders.

His responsibilities will include supporting the organization’s global mission, advising on leadership and educational programs, strengthening international partnerships, assisting with country-level development, and promoting the network’s standards of integrity and accountability.

He will also contribute to:

Leadership training and mentoring
Theological and professional education
Development of youth and emerging leaders
STEM and technology initiatives
International organizational growth
Policy and program development
Church and ministry partnerships
Ethical leadership advocacy
Global Christian unity
Community development projects
Academic and professional collaborations

A Commitment to Christian Unity and Responsible Leadership

Christian Leadership Network is developing as a global platform committed to unifying Christians across denominational, cultural, and national boundaries.

The organization seeks to promote responsible Christian leadership, sound teaching, accountability, education, ethical conduct, mentoring, and collaboration.

Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful’s appointment supports this mission because his life and career demonstrate the value of combining faith with knowledge, professionalism, discipline, service, and innovation.
A Strategic Appointment for a Growing Global Network

The appointment of Bishop Dr. Michael Newman-Godful comes at an important stage in the development of Christian Leadership Network.

The organization is building its global structures and currently has representatives in several countries. As interest in the network continues to grow, it is placing strong emphasis on due diligence, leadership standards, governance, education, and accountability.

Bishop Dr. Newman-Godful’s appointment strengthens the network’s leadership capacity and signals its intention to combine Christian ministry with professional excellence.

His life reflects a journey from the classrooms of Ghana to universities and public institutions in the United States, from ministry training in the Netherlands to international teaching in China, and from pastoral service to STEM leadership and global education.

Christian Leadership Network welcomes him into this important position and looks forward to the contribution he will make toward its vision of Christian unity, responsible leadership, education, integrity, and global transformation.

Through his service as Vice President, Bishop Dr. Michael Newman-Godful is expected to help equip a new generation of leaders who are spiritually mature, professionally prepared, technologically informed, ethically responsible, and committed to serving both the Church and society.

LG Launches Smart NeoChef Microwave Featuring African Recipes

Isaac Kofi Dzokpo
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LG Launches Smart NeoChef Microwave Featuring African Recipes


LG Electronics Introduces Enhanced NeoChef Microwave with African AutoCook Menus, Bringing African Flavoursto the Modern Kitchen

 LG Electronics (LG) has launched its enhanced NeoChef Microwave, introducing 20 African AutoCook Menus designed to help consumers prepare authentic local dishes with greater ease, consistency and convenience.

The latest addition to LG’s kitchen appliance portfolio reflects the company’s commitment to delivering localized innovations that cater to the unique cooking traditions and lifestyles of African households.

 Developed through extensive research into African culinary habits and consumer preferences, the upgraded NeoChefMicrowave transforms everyday cooking by combining advanced Smart Inverter technology with intelligent AutoCookprograms specifically optimized for African cuisine.

The result is a versatile appliance that goes beyond reheating to simplify meal preparation while preserving the authentic taste, texture and quality of traditional dishes.

The enhanced NeoChef Microwave features a spacious 42-litre capacity, powerful 1200W output, grilling functionality and LG’s Smart Inverter technology, which ensures faster, more even and energy-efficient cooking.

It also comes equipped with an EasyClean™ antibacterial interior coating, intuitive touch-and-dial controls, and multiple cooking functions including grilling, roasting, baking, reheating, defrosting and fermentation, offering greater flexibility for modern kitchens.

At the heart of the new model is its expanded Popular Menu, which now features 28 AutoCook programs, including 20 African-inspired recipes carefully developed to suit local tastes. Consumers can now prepare popular meals such as Jollof Rice, Moi Moi, Poundo Yam, Coconut Rice, Fish in Curry Sauce, Asun and Suya Roasted Fish using preset cooking modes that deliver reliable, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

 “African cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavours, diversity and cultural significance,” said Oktae Kim, Product Director, Home Appliances Solutions, LG Electronics West Africa. “With the enhanced NeoChef Microwave, LG combines advanced cooking technology with locally relevant innovation to help consumers prepare their favourite African meals more conveniently while maintaining the authentic taste and quality they expect. This launch reflects our continued commitment to developing products that truly meet the needs of African consumers.”

 Beyond its African AutoCook menus, the NeoChef Microwave also includes a variety of Arabic and European cooking programs, allowing users to explore a broader range of international cuisines. Additional functions such as roasting, grilling, warming, proofing, defrosting and specialty cooking further position the NeoChef as an all-in-one solution for today’s home kitchen.

The introduction of African AutoCook Menus underscores LG’s commitment to meaningful innovation by combining cutting-edge technology with locally inspired solutions that simplify everyday cooking.

More than just a microwave, the enhanced NeoChef serves as a reliable cooking companion that gives consumers greater confidence and convenience in preparing the meals they love.

 The LG AutoCook NeoChef Microwave is now available at LG Brand Shops and authorized retailers across Accra, Kumasi and other locations nationwide.

For more information, visit https://www.lg.com/africa/grill-microwaves to see what the LG recipe book looks like, see https://www.lg.com/africa/lgneochef/cookbook-list

 About LG Electronics

LG Electronics is a global innovator in consumer electronics and home appliances, committed to creating technologies that improve everyday life. Through customer-focused innovation and localized product development, LG continues to deliver smart, reliable solutions that enhance convenience, performance and sustainability for consumers around the world.

Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe Attionu’s Acquittal Is a Victory for Justice

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Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe Attionu’s Acquittal Is a Victory for Justice

The unanimous decision by Ghana’s Court of Appeal to overturn the conviction and 10-year custodial sentence imposed on former Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Sedina Tamakloe Attionu, is being hailed by many legal observers as a significant affirmation of the country’s justice system and the constitutional principle of the presumption of innocence.

In a landmark ruling delivered on Thursday, the three-member panel comprising Justice Emmanuel Ankamah, Justice Emmanuel Senyo Amedahe, and Justice Samuel Obeng-Diawuo acquitted and discharged Mrs. Tamakloe Attionu of all charges after finding that the prosecution had failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.

The appellate court did not merely overturn the High Court’s decision; it also delivered a strong reminder of the standards required in criminal prosecutions. The judges observed that the trial court had lost sight of the constitutional safeguard that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, while also expressing concerns about the prosecution’s handling of the case and the quality of evidence presented.

The decision marks a dramatic reversal of the April 2024 High Court judgment that sentenced the former MASLOC Chief Executive to 10 years’ imprisonment following a trial that began in January 2019.

Mrs. Tamakloe Attionu had faced 78 charges, including stealing, conspiracy to steal, wilfully causing financial loss to the state, causing loss to public property, improper payment of public funds, unauthorised commitment, and money laundering. The prosecution, led by then Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame and relying largely on investigations by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), alleged that she had misappropriated public funds through several MASLOC programmes.

Among the allegations were the alleged diversion of a GH¢500,000 loan intended for Obaatanpa Microfinance, the misappropriation of funds earmarked for MASLOC sensitisation programmes, the diversion of relief funds meant for victims of the Kantamanto Market fire, and inflated procurement of vehicles and mobile phones. During the trial, the prosecution called seven witnesses and relied heavily on a forensic audit report.

However, the Court of Appeal found that the evidence fell short of the legal threshold required to sustain the convictions. It consequently quashed the judgment of the High Court presided over by Justice Afia Serwaa Asare Botwe and ordered that Mrs. Tamakloe Attionu be acquitted and discharged.

The court indicated that its full reasoning, contained in a 94-page judgment, would be released before the close of business on Thursday.

For many legal analysts, the ruling demonstrates that Ghana’s judicial system possesses effective mechanisms for correcting errors through the appellate process. While the High Court reached one conclusion, the Court of Appeal exercised its constitutional mandate to review the evidence independently and concluded that the prosecution had not discharged its burden of proof.

The judgment also reinforces a fundamental principle of criminal justice—that convictions must be based on credible and sufficient evidence capable of establishing guilt beyond reasonable doubt. By overturning the conviction, the Court of Appeal has reaffirmed that the burden of proof remains firmly on the prosecution and that every accused person is entitled to a fair trial under the Constitution.

As the legal community awaits the publication of the court’s full 94-page judgment, the ruling is expected to shape future discussions on prosecutorial standards, judicial reasoning, and the protection of constitutional rights in criminal proceedings.

Ultimately, the acquittal of former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe Attionu is likely to be remembered not only for its political significance but also for its broader implications for justice, due process, and the rule of law in Ghana.

Has Justin Kodua Disqualified Hon. Kwasi Bonzoh?

Prosper Kay
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Has Justin Kodua Disqualified Hon. Kwasi Bonzoh?

Over the past week, tensions have been rising within the New Patriotic Party in the Western Region following allegations that the General Secretary, Mr. Justin Kodua Frimpong, may be behind the disqualification of Hon. Kwasi Bonzoh from contesting for the position of Regional Secretary.

These concerns have gained momentum because Hon. Bonzoh is widely regarded as a strong candidate with a realistic chance of defeating the incumbent Regional Secretary, who is perceived by some party members as the preferred candidate of the General Secretary.

For more than twenty years, Hon. Kwasi Bonzoh has served the New Patriotic Party with loyalty, dedication and sacrifice. He served as the NPP Parliamentary Candidate for Ellembelle for sixteen years and later served as District Chief Executive for Ellembelle for eight years under the Akufo-Addo administration. His commitment to the party and contribution to its development cannot reasonably be questioned.

Despite presenting his academic credentials and supporting documents to the Regional Appeals Committee, his disqualification was upheld. This has left many loyal party members asking an important question: why is Hon. Kwasi Bonzoh being denied the opportunity to contest?

Believing in the principles of fairness, justice and internal democracy that have always guided the New Patriotic Party, Hon. Bonzoh has appealed the decision to the National Steering Committee.

His appeal has been submitted to:

Mr. Smith Danquah, Acting National Chairman
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Presidential Candidate
Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, Majority Leader
Mr. Justin Kodua Frimpong, General Secretary

Hon. Kwasi Bonzoh remains confident that justice will prevail and that every qualified and committed party member will be given a fair opportunity to serve.

**Justice. Fairness. Service.**

Bolt Data: More Than 90% of Ghanaians Still Choose Affordable Ride Options as Premium Demand Grows

Prosper Kay
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Bolt Data: More Than 90% of Ghanaians Still Choose Affordable Ride Options as Premium Demand Grows

New Bolt data reveals that affordability continues to shape how Ghanaians use ride-hailing services, with more than 90% of all trips across Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi booked through the platform’s Standard and Economy categories.

The findings highlight the continued importance of affordable mobility for everyday travel, even as demand for more premium ride options continues to grow.

According to Bolt’s latest mobility insights, Comfort and Premium rides now account for approximately 5–7% of all trips across Ghana’s three largest cities. Since Bolt expanded driver availability within the Comfort category in March 2025, demand for Comfort rides has increased between three and five times, with Accra recording the highest adoption.

The trend suggests that while affordability remains the deciding factor for most daily journeys, more Ghanaians are choosing to upgrade for specific occasions where additional comfort is worth the higher fare. A Comfort trip typically costs around 1.5 times the price of a Standard ride.

Teddy Appa – Dankyi, Senior General Manager for Bolt Ghana, said the data reflects changing consumer behaviour rather than a shift away from affordability.

“Affordability remains at the heart of how most Ghanaians use ride-hailing. Whether it’s commuting to work, running errands or getting around the city, people are looking for transport that offers value for money. At the same time, we’re seeing more customers choose premium ride categories when the occasion calls for it, whether that’s travelling to the airport, attending an important meeting or simply wanting a little more comfort.“

He added that offering different ride categories allows customers to choose an option that best suits both their budget and their travel needs.

“No two journeys are the same. Some passengers will always prioritise affordability, while others are willing to spend a little more for extra comfort on certain trips. Our role is to provide that choice while continuing to make ride-hailing accessible to as many people as possible.“

The growing demand for Comfort rides has also created new earning opportunities for drivers operating higher-end vehicles. Bolt continues to expand the availability of its Comfort category, giving eligible vehicle owners another way to earn through the platform while offering passengers more choice.

As consumer preferences continue to evolve, Bolt says it will continue investing in products and services that balance affordability with convenience, ensuring passengers have access to transport options that suit different budgets, travel occasions and preferences.

WHO equips health facilities with refrigerators to strengthen access to safe blood

AMA
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WHO equips health facilities with refrigerators to strengthen access to safe blood

The World Health Organization (WHO) has delivered and installed 13 blood bank refrigerators, complete with solar power systems, in health facilities across all 10 States and the 3 Administrative Areas (AAs) South Sudan. This investment has enhanced blood storage capacity, ensured reliable power supply for blood banking services, and improved the availability of safe blood for patients requiring lifesaving transfusions.

The equipment was procured through funding from the Health Sector Transformation Project (HSTP), managed by the World Bank. The project is funded through Multi Donor Trust Fund, supported by key development partners including the World Bank group, UK international Development, GAVI, The global Fund, Canada, and European Union (EU). The investments form part of a broader effort to equip health facilities across the country with infrastructure, equipment, and systems needed to deliver quality healthcare services.

During the celebrations of the World blood donor day on 16th June 2026, Dr. Oromo Francis, Undersecretary of Health, noted that health facilities across the country continue to face shortages and lack of access to safe blood supplies. “The need for blood continues to rise and far outpaces supply,” said Dr. Oromo. “the refrigerators will enhance availability, safety, and quality of blood and blood products, particularly in facilities providing comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care. Reliable cold systems are essential to maintaining the integrity of blood, preventing wastage, and ensure timely access to safe transfusion services, and save lives.”

Dr. Humphrey Karamagi, WHO Representative for South Sudan, noted that safe blood is essential to survival. “Access to safe blood and blood products is a critical component of functioning health systems and progress towards universal health coverage. By delivering this equipment, we are sending a message of collective responsibility to ensure access to safe blood for all who need it.”

As part of a broader effort to strengthen the national blood system, WHO also supported the Ministry of Health and the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) in the development of the National Blood Transfusion Services Strategy 2026–2030, which provides a strategic framework for strengthening governance, improving blood collection and safety systems, enhancing quality management and ensuring equitable access to safe blood nationwide. To maximize the impact of these investments.

WHO developed standardized blood and blood donor management training materials, donor education materials, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to support harmonized implementation of blood transfusion services across the country. This was complemented by a Training of Trainers (ToT) for 14 NBTS staff, equipping them with the technical and facilitation skills required to lead capacity-building efforts at sub-national level. Following the ToT, an integrated training programme on blood and blood donor management was launched and is currently being cascaded to all 13 health facilities where the blood bank refrigerators were installed. The training covers key aspects of blood donor mobilization, recruitment and retention, donor eligibility assessment, blood collection, processing, storage, inventory management, and safe transfusion practices.

Together, these interventions represent a significant milestone in strengthening South Sudan’s blood transfusion services, building the capacity of health workers, and ensuring timely access to safe, quality-assured blood and blood products for patients across the country.

South Sudan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally, with post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) among the leading causes of maternal deaths. In such emergencies, access to safe blood is often the difference between life and death. Strengthening blood transfusion services therefore represents a vital investment in improving maternal and newborn health outcomes as well as emergency care services nationwide.
The 13 beneficiary health facilities include Al-Sabah Children’s Hospital in Juba, Aweil Hospital, Torit Hospital, Bentiu Hospital, Renk Hospital, Bor Hospital, Pariang Hospital, Kuajok Hospital, Yambio Hospital, Wau Hospital, Rumbek Hospital, Abyei Hospital, and Pibor Hospital.

WFP warns food assistance for Congolese refugees in Burundi risks ending without urgent funding

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WFP warns food assistance for Congolese refugees in Burundi risks ending without urgent funding

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today warned that food assistance for more than 130,000 refugees in Burundi – most of them fleeing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) – risks drawing down unless urgent funding is received.
Families who crossed the border in search of safety, food and shelter now face the prospect of losing the very assistance they depend on to survive. WFP urgently needs USD 35 million to sustain food and nutrition support for refugees through August 2027. Without new resources, lifesaving food distributions will end entirely from October 2026.

“Refugee families have already escaped from violence with little more than what they could carry. They came to Burundi looking for safety and something to eat, but now even that lifeline is at risk,” said Arduino Mangoni, WFP’s Acting Country Director in Burundi. “For people who cannot safely return home and have few ways to support themselves, WFP food assistance is not optional, it is what keeps families alive.”

Funding shortfalls have already forced WFP to reduce food rations, eroding refugees’ health and nutrition. If assistance stops, the impact would be immediate and severe. Families already living on reduced rations would face deeper hunger, worsening malnutrition and impossible choices between food, shelter, health care and protection. With no reliable income, limited opportunities to work and nowhere else to turn, many refugees could be pushed into negative coping strategies, while pressure on camps and surrounding host communities could rise.

As renewed violence flared in eastern DRC in late 2025, more than 100,000 people were forced to flee into neighbouring Burundi, adding to the existing refugee population in the country and more than doubling the number of refugees WFP supports. While some refugees have returned voluntarily to DRC, persistent conflict and regional instability continue to drive needs and could trigger further displacement if the situation deteriorates.

“We urgently appeal to donors and the international community to act now,” Mangoni said. “A break in food assistance would come at the worst possible moment for families who have already lost so much. Timely funding will allow WFP to keep food moving, protect the most vulnerable and help prevent a humanitarian emergency from deepening in a region already under strain.”

Letshego Ghana Delivers Strong H1 2026 Results, Driven by Profitable Growth and Resilient Asset Quality

EDALL Chronicles
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Letshego Ghana Delivers Strong H1 2026 Results, Driven by Profitable Growth and Resilient Asset Quality

Accra, 29 July 2026 – Letshego Ghana Savings and Loans PLC has announced a strong financial performance for the half year ended 30 June 2026 during its “Facts Behind the Figures” engagement with the Ghana Stock Exchange.

The results were underpinned by growth in lending, improved margins, disciplined cost management and resilient asset quality. Profit before tax increased to GHS 67 million, from GHS 24 million in the corresponding period, while return on equity improved to 33%, from 23%. Lending income grew by 35% to GHS 308 million, supported by higher disbursement volumes, while lower funding costs contributed to improved margins.

Speaking at the session, the Chief Finance Officer of Letshego Ghana, Daisy O. Adjei-Boadi, said, “Our H1 2026 results reflect the strength of our strategy, the resilience of our business model and our commitment to sustainable growth. We continue to deliver strong earnings while strengthening our balance sheet, diversifying our portfolio and deepening financial inclusion across Ghana.”

Key Highlights:

– Mobile lending remained the company’s primary growth engine, recording GHS 5.0 billion in disbursements during the first half of the year.
– The gross loan book closed at GHS 1.2 billion.
– Total assets increased to GHS 1.9 billion, while customer deposits rose to GHS 834 million.
– Capital adequacy ratio of 20.2%, comfortably above regulatory requirements.

Focus on Financial Inclusion and Sustainability

Letshego Ghana continued to advance its financial inclusion agenda by expanding access to credit for individuals, women entrepreneurs and micro and small enterprises. The company piloted group-lending initiatives focused on women and continued to support sustainable development through financing for clean energy and green mobility projects.

Outlook for 2026

For the remainder of 2026, Letshego Ghana will focus on accelerating digital lending, launching its QwikSave retail savings product, growing impact-led lending, strengthening collections and portfolio quality, and advancing preparations for a potential transition to a microfinance bank, subject to Bank of Ghana sector reforms and regulatory approvals.

The Chief Executive Officer of Letshego Ghana, Nii Amankra Tetteh, said, “We remain confident in our outlook and focused on delivering profitable and responsible growth. Our priority is to create long-term value for our customers, employees, shareholders and the communities we serve, while continuing to expand access to financial services across Ghana.”

About Letshego Ghana Savings and Loans PLC
Formerly AFB Ghana, Letshego Ghana Savings and Loans PLC (“Letshego Ghana”) is a licensed financial services provider in Ghana, offering credit and savings solutions to individuals across the public and private sectors and supporting micro and small enterprises.

Osokrono We Youth Warn Nungua Traditional Council President Over Alleged Unauthorized Use of Clan Emblem

Prosper Kay
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Osokrono We Youth Warn Nungua Traditional Council President Over Alleged Unauthorized Use of Clan Emblem

The Youth of the Osokrono We Clan of Nungua have issued a formal cautionary notice to the President of the Nungua Traditional Council, Prof. Odehe Kpakpa King Odaifio Welentsi III, over what they describe as the unauthorized use of the clan’s sacred emblem during a traditional procession.

In a letter dated July 25, 2026, and signed by Ehontoi Borte on behalf of the youth, the group alleged that during the President’s Ohenease procession through Nungua on Thursday, July 23, he was seen carrying an egg in his hand, a symbol they say is the exclusive emblem of the Osokrono We Clan.

According to the youth, the hand holding an egg is a sacred historical and symbolic representation of the Osokrono We Clan’s heritage, identity and spiritual authority, and should not be used by persons outside the clan without prior approval.

The group argued that since Prof. Welentsi III belongs to the Mantse We Clan and not the Osokrono We Clan, his use of the emblem was contrary to Ga customary law and traditional practice.

They further claimed the incident provoked anger among some youth in the community and nearly resulted in a confrontation, which they said was only prevented through the intervention of elders of the Osokrono We Clan.

Describing the matter as a serious breach of tradition, the youth served what they termed a “legal caution,” warning that any continued unauthorized use of the Osokrono We Clan’s emblem or paraphernalia could lead to legal and traditional action.

The group said it may seek redress through the Nungua Traditional Council, the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, and the courts of competent jurisdiction on grounds including alleged impersonation, infringement of traditional rights and breach of the peace.

The youth also called on all chiefs, sub-chiefs, clan heads and residents to refrain from using the symbols, emblems or paraphernalia of other clans without first obtaining written approval from the rightful custodians.

Copies of the letter were sent to several traditional authorities, security agencies and government institutions, including the Wor Konor, the Kpeshi District Police Commander, the Minister for the Interior, the Nungua Traditional Council Registrar, the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, and a number of clan heads and traditional leaders in Nungua.

As of the time of filing this report, Prof. Odehe Kpakpa King Odaifio Welentsi III and the Nungua Traditional Council had not publicly responded to the allegations.

Japan Earthquake Renews Interest in Apostle Amoako Attah’s Prophetic Messages

Prosper Kay
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Japan Earthquake Renews Interest in Apostle Amoako Attah’s Prophetic Messages

Congregants of Apostle Francis Amoako Attah are pointing to a series of prophetic declarations he made earlier this month after a powerful earthquake struck Japan’s Kyushu Island, killing at least 13 people and leaving rescue teams searching for survivors under collapsed buildings.

The Kingdom Speaker, during separate church services in July, made statements about earthquakes, volcanic activity and Japan that some followers now believe correspond with the disaster.

On July 5, 2026, Apostle Amoako Attah told his congregation:

“They can weaponise the earth for earthquake to occur. As I speak, the Chinese are planning some for Japan.”

Five days later, on July 10, he declared:

“Today as the rains set in, earthquakes have started, volcanoes have started.”

He also warned that nations worshipping “the serpent, goat and cow” should call on their gods to save them.

In another service on July 19, the preacher said he saw “the oceans rising” and “cold from Japan to part of America,” adding that “something big is about to explode, something big is about to happen.”

The remarks have resurfaced following Tuesday’s devastating earthquake in Japan.

According to Japanese authorities, the earthquake struck Kyushu Island at 4:27 p.m. local time, with the Japan Meteorological Agency initially measuring it at magnitude 7.1, while the U.S. Geological Survey later revised it to 6.8.

The quake caused widespread destruction in Kumamoto Prefecture, where buildings, including parts of an Aeon shopping mall and a paper factory, collapsed. At least 13 people have been confirmed dead, while rescuers continue searching for survivors trapped beneath the rubble.

More than 100 aftershocks have been recorded since the main quake, prompting authorities to warn residents to remain vigilant as hundreds of thousands were advised to evacuate to shelters.

The coincidence between Apostle Amoako Attah’s July messages and the earthquake has generated significant discussion among his followers on social media, with many describing the events as a fulfilment of his warnings.

However, there is no independent evidence linking the Apostle’s statements to the earthquake, and scientists explain that earthquakes are natural geological events caused by the movement of tectonic plates. Claims that earthquakes can be deliberately “weaponised” have not been substantiated by credible scientific evidence.

Gold Trade Row Puts Sesi-Edem and JG Resources Under Intense Scrutiny

Prosper Kay
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Gold Trade Row Puts Sesi-Edem and JG Resources Under Intense Scrutiny

A multimillion-dollar gold trade dispute involving Sesi-Edem Company Limited and JG Resources Limited is expanding beyond a commercial disagreement, with the matter now attracting legal, regulatory, and governance scrutiny over alleged assay discrepancies, contractual breaches, and unresolved financial obligations.

The controversy, which industry sources estimate involves exposure exceeding $20 million, has drawn attention to the directors of Sesi-Edem Company Limited, including Volta Regional Member of the Council of State Gabriel Adovoe Kwablaw Kwamigah (Tanko Kwamigah) and Patricia Awoonor, as questions continue to surround export documentation, assay records, and payment reconciliation.

At the centre of the dispute is a gold supply agreement under which JG Resources Limited reportedly paid GH¢57.7 million for 50 kilograms of gold between June and July 2025 through three payment tranches linked to export transactions.

According to documentation cited by parties familiar with the transaction, the key dispute concerns the quantity of gold ultimately confirmed by an accredited refinery in Dubai. While internal records attributed to Sesi-Edem reportedly indicate deliveries of about 30.8 kilograms, refinery assay results are said to have confirmed approximately 29.2 kilograms, leaving an unresolved delivery deficit of roughly 19.2 kilograms, with an estimated value of about $17 million.

Industry analysts say refinery assay results typically determine final settlement in international bullion transactions, making discrepancies between supplier-origin assays and destination refinery assays a significant contractual issue.

Sources indicate that attempts to reconcile the assay differences and outstanding delivery obligations have so far failed to produce a settlement.

The dispute has become more sensitive because of the involvement of a serving Council of State representative. Governance experts say transactions involving politically exposed persons often attract heightened transparency expectations, particularly where significant financial exposure and documentation inconsistencies are alleged.

Meanwhile, the matter has also become entangled in ongoing legal proceedings involving JG Resources Limited.

The company and three of its directors—Papa Yaw Owusu-Ankomah, Maame Akosua Asama Kuranchie, and Kwaku Appiah Yeboah—are facing contempt proceedings before the High Court in Accra over allegations that they failed to comply with a December 2025 order requiring the freezing of certain bank accounts and the payment of funds into court.

In a separate development, Sesi-Edem Company Limited has accused JG Resources of using its corporate name, logo, and the signature of its Managing Director without authorization in connection with a gold transaction involving Tayvest-FZCO.

The allegations have become part of broader investigations being conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) into the disputed gold deal and the quantity of gold allegedly delivered relative to payments made.

JG Resources has rejected allegations suggesting that documents relied upon in the dispute were forged, insisting that its recovery claims are based on contractual performance, refinery assay verification, and outstanding settlement obligations.

Sources familiar with the negotiations said the parties at one stage explored terminating the supply agreement after movements in international gold prices complicated further deliveries. Refund discussions were reportedly initiated but failed to produce an agreement.

Industry observers warn that unresolved disputes involving export commodities of this scale could affect confidence in Ghana’s gold trade, where transparency in assay verification, export documentation, and settlement procedures remains critical to maintaining investor confidence and the country’s international trading reputation.

With parallel civil proceedings and regulatory investigations ongoing, the dispute is expected to be determined largely by documentary evidence, accredited assay certification, and the outcome of judicial and regulatory processes rather than competing public claims.

 

Continuous public sector reform key to Ghana’s development – Head of Civil Service

Prosper Kay
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The Head of Civil Service, Dr. Evans Aggrey Darko, has called for sustained public sector reforms to strengthen state institutions, improve service delivery and support Ghana’s long-term economic and social development.

Speaking on the sidelines of the National Stakeholder Validation Workshop on the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II (NPSRS II), Dr. Darko said reform must remain a continuous process because institutions naturally deteriorate over time and must adapt to changing national and global demands.

He said governments face increasing pressure to deliver better services with limited resources, making institutional transformation essential.

“Institutions decay with time. We also live in a very complex, ambiguous and uncertain world. Therefore, we need to do things differently. Citizens’ expectations continue to change, and there is increasing pressure on government to deliver more with limited resources,” he said.

Dr. Darko explained that public sector reform extends beyond restructuring institutions and includes reviewing systems, improving business processes, strengthening human resource capacity and placing customer service at the centre of public service delivery.

He stressed that building the capacity of public servants is critical to improving the quality of government services.

“You cannot give what you do not have. We must continue to build the capacity of our personnel because, at the end of the day, the quality of the services we provide will determine our relevance and value to the people,” he said.

The Head of Civil Service noted that effective service delivery is essential for strengthening public trust and democratic accountability.

According to him, governments that deliver on citizens’ expectations build confidence in public institutions, encourage tax compliance and promote support for national development programmes.

Dr. Darko said the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II is designed to make public institutions more productive, efficient and responsive to citizens’ needs.

He identified key priorities of the strategy as deepening decentralisation, strengthening local governance, promoting inclusivity and mainstreaming gender equality across the public sector.

Referring to data from the 2021 Population and Housing Census, he said women constitute a larger share of Ghana’s population and must be fully integrated into national development efforts.

He said the Civil Service has established a Gender Task Force, introduced gender-mainstreaming initiatives and incorporated gender-disaggregated indicators into performance appraisal systems.

Dr. Darko also highlighted digital transformation as a major pillar of the reform agenda, saying technology can improve transparency, reduce corruption opportunities and make government services more accessible.

“We want to adopt modern methods of service delivery and reduce unnecessary human interaction because excessive human interface often creates opportunities for corruption. Through digitalisation, we can make government services faster, more transparent and more accessible,” he said.

He said the strategy also seeks to improve workplace conditions, strengthen occupational safety, enhance recruitment processes and introduce more effective talent management systems.

The Civil Service boss further underscored the importance of ethical leadership, integrity and accountability in managing public institutions and public resources.

He argued that performance management systems should be strengthened by linking rewards and compensation to measurable results in order to improve productivity.

“Compensation is important, but when compensation is linked to performance, it creates an incentive for people to deliver better results,” he said.

Dr. Darko said Ghana’s public sector reform agenda is ultimately aimed at building a developmental state capable of driving sustainable economic transformation.

He noted that the state’s role is not only to participate directly in economic activities but also to create an enabling environment for private sector growth through effective regulation and strong institutions.

He cited agencies such as the Food and Drugs Authority, Ghana Standards Authority, Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority and the Environmental Protection Authority as examples of institutions that play critical regulatory roles in national development.

He stressed that laws must be effectively enforced if they are to contribute meaningfully to development.

Dr. Darko called on the media and other stakeholders to support the implementation of the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II, saying national development requires both sound policies and effective execution.

“Implementation is the action phase of every policy. We must move beyond speeches and ensure that our good intentions result in tangible improvements in the lives of our people. That is how we will truly achieve national development,” he said.

Public Sector Reform Strategy II Set to Drive Better Service Delivery

Prosper Kay
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The Government of Ghana has taken a significant step toward reshaping the country’s public administration by convening a National Stakeholder Validation Workshop to review the final draft of the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II (NPSRS II), a comprehensive framework designed to transform public institutions into more efficient, accountable and citizen-focused organisations.

The workshop, organised by the Public Sector Reform Secretariat (PSRS) under the Office of the President, brought together senior government officials, development partners, representatives of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), civil society organisations, academia, organised labour, the private sector and the media at the AH Hotel in East Legon.

The validation exercise marks the final stage before the strategy’s formal adoption and implementation as the government’s overarching blueprint for public sector reforms.

According to the Secretariat, the strategy was developed through an extensive consultative process involving broad stakeholder participation to ensure that it reflects national priorities and responds to the evolving needs of Ghana’s governance landscape.

Building a Public Sector that Serves Citizens

Opening the workshop, the Minister of State for Public Sector Reforms, Hon. Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, said the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II represents a new vision for public administration centred on improving the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.

She noted that although Ghana has pursued several reform programmes over the past decades, changing socio-economic realities, rapid technological advancement, growing citizen expectations and fiscal challenges demand a more integrated and sustainable reform agenda.

“The objective of this Strategy is simple,” she said. “It is to build a public sector that places citizens at the centre of governance.”

According to the Minister, public institutions exist to serve citizens and businesses, and every reform initiative outlined in the strategy must ultimately translate into tangible improvements in public service delivery.

She explained that these improvements include reducing delays in accessing government services, enhancing transparency and accountability, strengthening professionalism and ethical conduct within the public service, leveraging digital technologies to improve efficiency and ensuring that public services are accessible to all Ghanaians regardless of their location, gender, age or physical ability.

Seven Strategic Pillars

Hon. Akanvariba disclosed that the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II has been structured around seven strategic pillars, which will be implemented through 27 programmes and 135 strategic activities.

The interventions are expected to strengthen service delivery to citizens and businesses, build a competent and disciplined public sector workforce, modernise public institutions, improve regulatory systems, strengthen local governance structures, accelerate digital transformation and establish sustainable financing mechanisms for public sector reforms.

She stressed that the true measure of success would not be the number of activities undertaken but the real-life impact experienced by citizens.

“The success of this Strategy will be measured by the tangible improvements citizens and businesses experience in their daily interactions with public institutions,” she stated.

She explained that success should mean a business owner completing regulatory processes in fewer days, a farmer in a rural community accessing government services without travelling long distances, taxpayers obtaining services through simple and transparent digital platforms, and every Ghanaian experiencing professionalism, courtesy and efficiency when engaging public institutions.

The Minister further urged all stakeholders to maintain strong collaboration throughout implementation.

“As we pivot from Strategy development to implementation, let us remain guided and committed to ensuring that no Ghanaian is left behind. Let us partner where resources are limited, collaborate across organisations, demonstrate effective leadership and uphold the highest standards of professionalism,” she said.

She also expressed appreciation to members of the National Oversight Committee, the Technical Committee, the Public Sector Reform Secretariat and all institutions that contributed to the preparation of the strategy.

Declaring the workshop officially open, she encouraged participants to actively contribute to discussions to ensure that the final document reflects broad national consensus.

Evidence-Based and Consultative Process

Delivering the welcome address, the Director of General Administration at the Public Sector Reform Secretariat, Mrs. Thelma Ohene-Asiamah, described the workshop as an important milestone in Ghana’s public sector transformation journey.

She said public sector reform remains one of the key drivers of Ghana’s socio-economic development because an efficient and capable public service underpins good governance, improves service delivery, strengthens public trust and creates an enabling environment for private sector growth.

According to her, the development of the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II followed a rigorous evidence-based and highly consultative process.

She explained that the process began with comprehensive reviews of previous reform programmes, evaluation reports and sector data before progressing to technical engagements involving subject matter experts from the Public Sector Reform Secretariat and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), with support from the World Bank through the Public Sector Reform for Results Project.

She added that the drafting process also included interviews, technical working sessions and nationwide stakeholder consultations involving Ministries, Departments and Agencies, local government institutions, academia, organised labour, civil society organisations, development partners and the private sector.

Mrs. Ohene-Asiamah noted that a multi-sectoral Technical Committee and a National Oversight Committee subsequently provided strategic direction throughout the drafting process, ensuring that the strategy reflects diverse perspectives and practical implementation considerations.

She emphasised that stakeholder ownership would be critical to the successful implementation of the strategy.

“The strength of this Strategy will ultimately depend not only on the quality of its design but also on the ownership and commitment of the organisations that will be responsible for its implementation,” she said.

She encouraged participants to critically examine the proposed priorities, strengthen the implementation framework and help position the strategy as a practical roadmap for transforming Ghana’s public sector.

Responding to Emerging National Challenges

Officials at the workshop observed that Ghana’s public sector reform agenda has evolved significantly since the Civil Service Reform Programme introduced in 1987.

While previous reforms have produced gains in institutional strengthening, digitalisation and improvements in service delivery, persistent structural challenges continue to affect efficiency across the public sector.

They noted that rising public expectations, demographic changes, fiscal pressures, technological advancement and increasing demands for transparency require a new generation of reforms that are integrated, sustainable and results-driven.

Consequently, the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II has been designed not simply as another reform initiative but as a comprehensive national framework for transforming public institutions into efficient, accountable and citizen-focused organisations capable of supporting Ghana’s long-term development agenda.

Key Strategic Priorities

The strategy is anchored on several priority areas considered essential for modern public administration.

These include accelerating digital transformation across government institutions, strengthening institutional coordination, enhancing performance management systems, improving regulatory frameworks, promoting citizen-centred service delivery, developing gender-responsive platforms, ensuring sustainable financing for reforms and strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems.

Officials noted that monitoring and evaluation would play a particularly critical role in ensuring accountability and measuring progress throughout implementation.

Among the priority interventions identified are the institutionalisation of a robust performance management framework that directly links organisational performance to national development outcomes while strengthening individual accountability across the public service.

The strategy also proposes accelerating end-to-end digital transformation by integrating government information systems, reducing duplication of processes and improving interoperability among Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

Other priorities include strengthening leadership and change management capacity through continuous executive development programmes for public sector managers, improving policy coordination by clarifying institutional mandates and reinforcing whole-of-government planning mechanisms, as well as investing significantly in workforce reskilling.

Particular emphasis will be placed on building competencies in digital technologies, data analytics, innovation management and customer service to prepare public servants for the demands of an increasingly modern and technology-driven public administration.

Blueprint for Public Sector Transformation

Once formally adopted, the National Public Sector Reform Strategy II is expected to become the government’s principal policy framework for driving reforms across Ghana’s public sector.

Government believes the strategy will help improve efficiency, accountability and transparency within public institutions while strengthening governance, enhancing service delivery and restoring public confidence in state institutions.

The validation workshop provided stakeholders with the opportunity to make final recommendations and ensure that the strategy enjoys broad national ownership before its official adoption, paving the way for a new phase of public sector reforms aimed at delivering better outcomes for citizens, businesses and national development.

 

Online Pastor Nana Yaw Bonsu Kwarteng Swindled Women with Fake Marriage Promises

Attractive Mustapha
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Online Pastor Nana Yaw Bonsu Kwarteng Swindled Women with Fake Marriage Promises

An Accra Circuit Court has remanded Nana Yaw Bonsu Kwarteng, a 35-year-old online pastor, into police custody over an alleged romance fraud and blackmail scheme involving seven complainants.

Kwarteng has been charged with six counts of conspiracy to commit crime, namely defrauding by false pretences, and six counts of defrauding by false pretences. He also faces a charge of non-consensual sharing of intimate images, which will be prosecuted before the High Court.

His wife, Sally Akosua Amoasah, has been jointly charged with six counts of conspiracy to commit crime, namely defrauding by false pretences.

The court adjourned proceedings to August 6, 2026, for the pleas of the accused persons to be taken.

Inspector Frank Morgan Dorvi, who led the prosecution, told the court that Kwarteng allegedly used an Instagram account, where he portrayed himself as a pastor, to establish relationships with women before inducing them to part with large sums of money.

According to the prosecution, the complainants include an ambassador and several businesswomen. Kwarteng allegedly proposed marriage to some of the women, visited their families, and claimed to operate a profitable car tyre business.

Police told the court that he allegedly convinced the complainants to provide money, claiming the funds were needed to clear consignments of tyres. The prosecution said the amounts allegedly obtained included US$33,000, GHS25,000, US$4,000, GHS22,000, and other foreign currencies, which were not repaid.

The prosecution further alleged that Kwarteng secretly recorded intimate images and videos of some of the complainants and later used the recordings to threaten or blackmail them when they demanded refunds. It also alleged that he shared intimate images of one complainant with his wife.

Police said the accused persons allegedly went into hiding after the complainants reported the matter, despite being invited for questioning.

According to the prosecution, the couple were arrested at their hideout on July 20, 2026, following intelligence-led operations. Kwarteng allegedly attempted to flee during the operation but was re-arrested.

While Kwarteng was remanded into police custody, Amoasah was granted bail in the sum of GHS100,000 with two sureties. She has also been ordered to report to the case investigator every Monday and Friday.

The prosecution informed the court that investigations are ongoing and that additional persons have since reported to the police claiming to have been victims of the alleged scheme.

The Ghana News Agency has also gathered that Kwarteng is wanted by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in connection with separate investigations.

AI and Ghana’s Future: Experts Outline Path to Jobs, Innovation and Growth

Isaac Kofi Dzokpo
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AI and Ghana’s Future: Experts Outline Path to Jobs, Innovation and Growth


Ghana’s artificial intelligence drive has received a major boost as the Ghana AI Summit and Awards 2026 opens in Accra, bringing together more than 300 experts and industry leaders to brainstorm over AI’s role in economic growth, innovation and job creation.

The two-day summit, organised by Knowledge Innovations in partnership with Deloitte Ghana and other key stakeholders, is being held at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons from July 29 to 30 under the theme, “Artificial Intelligence for Economic Growth and Job Creation: Innovation, Inclusion and Future Jobs.”

The event is examining how AI is transforming industries, boosting productivity and contributing to economic growth, while equipping organisations with the knowledge and skills needed to harness the technology for inclusive and sustainable development.

Government Positions AI as Pillar of Digital Transformation

Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, a representative of the ministry reaffirmed government’s commitment to positioning artificial intelligence as a key pillar of Ghana’s digital transformation agenda.

The minister highlighted government’s efforts to implement the National AI Strategy, launched in April 2026, and its collaboration with development partners to establish a National AI Delivery Framework with clear milestones over the next decade to ensure the strategy delivers measurable outcomes.

He also highlighted government’s plans to establish a US$250 million AI Compute Centre, strengthen digital infrastructure, improve data governance, modernise the National Data Centre and implement a Data Exchange Hub to support responsible AI development.

The minister further underscored the importance of developing digital talent through the One Million Coders Programme, which is equipping young Ghanaians with skills in artificial intelligence, software engineering, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics and digital entrepreneurship.

He noted that building a skilled workforce remains critical to ensuring that Ghana is able to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the global artificial intelligence ecosystem.

UNESCO Urges Ghana to Accelerate AI Preparedness Amid Global Competition

The UNESCO Representative in Ghana, Edmond Moukala N’Gouemo, said artificial intelligence presents significant opportunities for economic transformation but urged countries, particularly in Africa, to move quickly to develop systems that allow them to benefit from the technology.

He said global developments demonstrate that the AI revolution is moving rapidly, citing China’s restructuring of thousands of outdated university programmes between 2021 and 2025 and introduction of new programmes aligned with emerging technologies to prepare its workforce for an AI-driven future.

Mr. Moukala N’Gouemo also referenced the establishment of a global artificial intelligence cooperation organisation headquartered in Shanghai, noting that the initiative reflects growing international efforts to promote equitable AI governance, open-source development and capacity building, particularly for the Global South.

“If you are still debating whether AI is important, if you are still analysing whether Africa needs AI, things are already moving faster than you can imagine,” he said.

He applauded Ghana for developing its National AI Strategy, describing the country as one of the leading nations on the continent in artificial intelligence readiness.

However, he cautioned that a strategy without adequate funding and an implementation plan risks becoming only a policy document, stressing the need for practical action to achieve meaningful transformation.

According to him, Ghana must continue strengthening its AI ecosystem by investing in innovation, research, local capacity development and partnerships to ensure that artificial intelligence delivers real economic and social benefits.

The UNESCO Representative said AI has the potential to transform critical sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture, public administration and scientific research, while creating new opportunities for businesses and young entrepreneurs.

He stressed the importance of ensuring that AI development remains ethical, inclusive and centred on human rights, noting that UNESCO’s position is that artificial intelligence must be a force for good.

He explained that UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, adopted by member states in 2021, provides a global framework to ensure AI respects human rights, promotes peace and protects the environment.

Mr. Moukala N’Gouemo added that UNESCO is working with Ghanaian stakeholders to translate global AI standards into local actions through initiatives such as the AI Readiness Assessment Methodology, which helps countries evaluate their preparedness across legal, institutional, technological, economic and social dimensions.

He further highlighted the importance of preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage through technology, warning that undocumented traditions, knowledge and living heritage risk being lost without deliberate digital preservation efforts.

He said the theme of the summit goes beyond algorithms and technology, as it reflects discussions about the future of Ghanaian workers, the competitiveness of local industries and the resilience of the economy in a post-digital world.

The UNESCO Representative also stressed the need for greater digital inclusion, particularly among women and rural communities, noting that access gaps could leave some populations behind in the AI revolution.

He praised local AI startups using technology to address challenges in education and healthcare, adding that inclusion must ensure every Ghanaian, regardless of location or background, has a role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

Data Protection Commission Calls for Strong AI Ecosystem Beyond Innovation

The Executive Director of the Data Protection Commission (DPC), Dr. Arnold Kavaarpuo, said Ghana’s approach to artificial intelligence must focus not only on developing technology but also on building the ecosystem required to transform innovation into economic value.

Dr. Kavaarpuo, who chaired discussions at the summit, compared the evolution of artificial intelligence to the Industrial Revolution, using the history of the steam engine to explain how transformative technologies create impact when supported by strong ecosystems.

He explained that while the steam engine was a groundbreaking invention, it was the development of supporting systems such as factories, railways, universities, banking institutions, engineering capabilities and trade networks that allowed it to reshape economies.

“History teaches us something even more important: the steam engine was the invention; the Industrial Revolution was the innovation,” he said.

Dr. Kavaarpuo noted that artificial intelligence is expected to make a major contribution to the global economy, but warned that countries controlling critical parts of the AI value chain, including computing infrastructure, semiconductor technology, cloud systems, data centres and advanced models, are likely to benefit the most.

He said Ghana may not immediately compete in areas such as manufacturing advanced chips or developing the world’s most powerful AI models, but the country can identify areas where it has comparative advantage and build capabilities around them.

“The question is not simply what artificial intelligence can do, but what kind of economy it can help us build,” he said.

The Data Protection Commission Executive Director challenged stakeholders to focus on how AI can create jobs rather than only automate existing ones, while developing Ghanaian talent, strengthening local intellectual property and improving competitiveness.

He said Ghana must ensure that artificial intelligence protects national values, promotes innovation and contributes to shared prosperity.

Ghana AI Summit Chair Highlights Role of Innovation Ecosystem

Chair of the Ghana AI Summit and Awards, Dr. Kwami Ahiabenu, said artificial intelligence is reshaping every aspect of society and presents enormous opportunities for Ghana’s development.

“AI is transforming every aspect of society, and we are proud to contribute to Ghana’s AI journey through this landmark event. The Ghana AI Summit & Awards is a catalyst for national development and should strengthen Ghana’s emerging AI ecosystem while celebrating the remarkable achievements of individuals and organisations driving innovation in the country’s rapidly growing AI sector,” he said.

Dr. Ahiabenu noted that the summit has attracted over 300 innovators and thought leaders from Ghana, Nigeria, the United States and the United Kingdom to discuss AI’s impact across sectors and strengthen Ghana’s emerging AI ecosystem.

He said discussions throughout the summit will focus on how AI can contribute to GDP growth, improve productivity, enhance AI fluency for competitive advantage and build the capacity of Ghana’s next generation of AI startups through practical workshops.

Deloitte Ghana Highlights AI Opportunities and Responsible Adoption

Roland Baah Teye, Technology and Transformation Partner at Deloitte Ghana, said artificial intelligence is already reshaping economies, industries, governments and societies globally, making it necessary for Ghana to develop strategies that ensure AI delivers inclusive growth.

He said the global conversation has moved beyond whether AI will transform the future, stressing that the technology is already changing how decisions are made, how services are delivered and how value is created across sectors.

“The most important question is this: How can Ghana harness AI in a manner that accelerates economic growth, improves lives, strengthens institutions, and creates opportunities for all citizens, while ensuring that innovation remains responsible, trusted and inclusive?” he asked.

Mr. Baah Teye said Ghana is well positioned to become a leading AI-enabled economy following years of investments in digital infrastructure, financial inclusion, digital identity, connectivity and technology-based public services.

He said these foundations provide an important platform for the next phase of Ghana’s digital transformation journey through the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence.

He commended government’s National AI Strategy, which he said provides a framework for harnessing AI to promote inclusive growth, improve public services, encourage local innovation and support responsible AI adoption.

Mr. Baah Teye noted that the strategy focuses on talent development, ethical AI use, research capacity, adoption across priority sectors and the development of solutions that respond to Ghana’s realities, priorities and values.

He highlighted the growing importance of local language technology, including artificial intelligence and speech recognition tools developed around Ghanaian and African languages, describing such initiatives as critical to making AI more accessible and relevant to local communities.

He said AI must not only be powerful but also practical, inclusive and rooted in the realities of the people it is designed to serve.

On opportunities presented by AI, the Deloitte Ghana partner said the technology could significantly transform key sectors of the Ghanaian economy.

In agriculture, he said AI can support farmers through predictive weather analysis, pest detection, crop monitoring, market intelligence and improved supply chain management.

In healthcare, he noted that AI can strengthen diagnostics, support disease surveillance, improve patient management and expand access to quality healthcare services.

He added that in education, AI-powered learning tools can support personalised learning, assist teachers and improve educational outcomes.

Mr. Baah Teye also pointed to the financial sector, where AI is already playing an increasing role in improving services, enhancing efficiency and creating new opportunities.

He said the private sector will be instrumental in shaping Ghana’s AI future, with businesses across financial services, telecommunications, energy and other industries exploring how AI can improve productivity, develop new products and services, reduce operational costs and unlock new business models.

However, he cautioned that successful AI adoption requires more than acquiring technology tools, stressing the need for clear strategies, strong data foundations, effective leadership, workforce readiness, risk management and responsible governance.

“AI transformation is not only a technology initiative; it is an enterprise transformation initiative,” he said.

Mr. Baah Teye stressed that responsible AI must remain a national priority, arguing that trust is not a barrier to innovation but a foundation that allows technology to scale sustainably.

He said citizens, employees, investors and regulators are increasingly asking critical questions about whether AI systems can be trusted, whether decisions are fair and unbiased, whether personal data is protected and who remains accountable when AI systems fail.

He outlined key principles that must guide Ghana’s AI development, including ensuring that AI is human-centred, transparent, explainable, fair, inclusive, privacy-conscious, secure, reliable and accountable.

He further emphasised the need for continued investment in workforce readiness to ensure Ghanaians have the skills required to participate effectively in the emerging AI economy.

The summit features keynote addresses, panel discussions, hands-on workshops and networking sessions involving leading AI experts, including Dr. Gillian Hammah, Professor Isaac Wiafe and Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy for Africa, Middle East and Turkey.

Discussions are focusing on the application of artificial intelligence across key sectors, including government, finance, healthcare, education, agriculture, manufacturing, media and the creative economy.

The event will conclude on July 30 with the Ghana AI Challenge, showcasing innovative AI-powered solutions to real-world problems, and the Ghana AI Awards, which will honour outstanding individuals, organisations, startups and institutions advancing artificial intelligence, innovation and digital transformation in Ghana.

What the Supreme Court’s Delegate System Ruling Means for Ghana’s Political Parties

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What the Supreme Court’s Delegate System Ruling Means for Ghana’s Political Parties

The Supreme Court has, by a 5–2 majority decision, declared the delegate system used by political parties to elect their presidential and parliamentary candidates unconstitutional and ordered all political parties to replace it with a system that allows all members in good standing to vote in their internal primaries.

The landmark ruling requires political parties to put in place the necessary measures within one year of the judgment to ensure that every eligible party member can participate directly in the selection of presidential and parliamentary candidates.

The decision followed a suit filed by former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, together with Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe and Dr. Christine Amoako-Nuamah. The plaintiffs argued that the delegate system disenfranchises ordinary party members and violates the democratic principles guaranteed under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

In its judgment, the Court held that restricting the selection of candidates to a limited number of delegates creates a narrow electoral market that is susceptible to money politics and undue influence. According to the Court, expanding participation to all members in good standing would better promote constitutional democracy, strengthen political participation and improve accountability within political parties.

The Court also ruled that the Electoral Commission has a constitutional responsibility to ensure that political parties organize and conduct their internal affairs in accordance with constitutional requirements. It consequently granted all the reliefs sought by the plaintiffs.

As part of its orders, the Court restrained all political parties from continuing to select presidential and parliamentary candidates through the delegate system. Instead, it directed them to adopt new arrangements within one year that will enable all members in good standing to vote in their internal primaries.

However, the Court clarified that its decision would not invalidate actions taken under the previous delegate system before the judgment. It ruled that all decisions, appointments and other actions lawfully undertaken under the former arrangement would remain valid and would not be affected solely because of the new ruling.

The case was heard by a seven-member panel comprising Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Ernest Yao Gaewu and Justice George Kingsley Koomson.

The majority decision was supported by five justices, while Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu and Justice Ernest Yao Gaewu dissented.

The judgment is expected to significantly reshape the internal electoral processes of political parties in Ghana by replacing the long-standing delegate system with a broader, one-member-one-vote approach for selecting presidential and parliamentary candidates.

Chairman Is Mentally Tough And In Good Spirits”: Beatrice Owarewa Siaw After Visiting Wontumi At Nsawam Prisons

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Chairman Is Mentally Tough And In Good Spirits”: Beatrice Owarewa Siaw After Visiting Wontumi At Nsawam Prisons

Aspiring Asante Mampong MP candidate says incarceration is “not a good look” for NPP, calls for patience on appeal

NPP Council of Patrons member and aspiring Parliamentary Candidate for Asante Mampong, Madam Beatrice Owarewa Siaw, has visited the incarcerated Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, alias Chairman Wontumi, at Nsawam Prisons. She says he appeared “calm, level-headed and encouraged” despite his situation.

The visit comes less than two weeks after Chairman Wontumi was sentenced in connection with illegal mining charges.

“A Long Journey From Kumasi”
Speaking to the press after the visit on Tuesday, Madam Siaw said she made the trip from Kumasi specifically to check on the Chairman.

“Today I visited Chairman Wontumi. I’m coming all the way from Kumasi. It’s a long journey. You know the road is not the best,” she said.

“When I met him, he was doing well. He seemed encouraged, and he believes there will be another course of action that will be in his favor. He seems ready to fight. So I was grateful and delighted to see that he was doing well and was fine.”

She described their interaction as warm. “When he saw me, he was so enthusiastic and eager. He greeted me and told everybody, ‘This is my sister.’ So I was excited to see the Chairman come to me. He seemed calm and level-headed.”

Madam Siaw noted that Wontumi’s well-known mental strength means he does not easily show distress. “You know Chairman. If you know Chairman, he is mentally tough. So if something is bothering him, you wouldn’t be able to see it directly in his facial expression.”

“It’s Still Early”
The Asante Mampong parliamentary hopeful said it was still early days since the sentencing, and that may account for his demeanor.

“It’s also still in the early stages. He hasn’t been incarcerated for too long. It’s been less than two weeks, so his demeanor seemed okay.”

Raises Questions About The Trial And Witness Testimony
Madam Siaw commented on the circumstances of the conviction and compared aspects of Ghana’s judicial process to that of the United States, raising concerns about reliance on witness testimony.

“Ghana’s judicial system is a little different from the U.S. I’m not saying that thee judge didn’t do her job. I think she did an excellent job,” she said.

“But you have six witnesses, and out of the six, one person, the General Manager, made a comment. Maybe this is not the only reason for the judgment, but the one people are harping on is: why would one of the witnesses say that he was allowed to do illegal mining and then use the proceeds to reclaim the land, while Chairman said, ‘No, I went to do reclamation’?”

She questioned what may have influenced the testimony. “So you don’t know if, behind the scenes, the person was offered something or not. That’s why, to me, the constitution needs to be reviewed a bit, because then so many people will end up in prison just based on a comment.”

Madam Siaw acknowledged that state institutions likely did their due diligence. “I’m sure the Attorney General and the various security institutions all looked into it and investigated thoroughly. I’m sure they did their job. There are no loopholes.”

However, she added: “But one person’s comment — you never know what happened behind the scenes. Why did the person testify for the government? Was it under duress? Was it, ‘We need this conviction, or you will be the one to face judgment’?”

“This Was A Lesson Learned For All Of Ghana”
The Council of Patrons member said the case should serve as a lesson beyond the NPP.

“In some way, we in the public don’t get all the information privy to the lawyers and the judges involved. So this was a lesson learned not just for the NPP but for all of Ghana, and for what we say in the public domain as well.”

On the possibility of an appeal, she said the party would need solid grounds. “If you have someone as prominent as Chairman Wontumi, who has sacrificed relentlessly for the party, then by all means they should appeal for one of their own. However, you need a good reason to file an appeal. I’m not sure exactly what their reason will be, or what new evidence, or evidence contrary to what was presented in court, that they have. So let’s give it time and see what happens in the near future.”

“To Be Incarcerated Is Never A Good Thing”
Madam Siaw admitted the situation is difficult for the party, particularly in the Ashanti Region.

“To be incarcerated is never a good thing, even if you are unable to prove your innocence. It’s never a good thing. It becomes challenging. As citizens, we are only limited to the information that has been put out in the media, and that’s how we speculate and derive our own conclusions. So unfortunately, we don’t have all the information that came up during the trial.”

She said Wontumi’s absence will be felt. “It will impact us because Chairman Wontumi is, for lack of a better word, the face of the party. To have your entire Ashanti Regional Chairman incarcerated is not the best feeling, I’m sure, for the party, and it’s not a good look.”

“So some people may not vote because of that, and others are of the view that this is a political witch hunt, and that he wasn’t given the opportunity, or that the evidence presented wasn’t looked at thoroughly.”

Call For Unity Ahead of Elections

Despite the setback, Madam Siaw expressed optimism that the NPP will move forward and remain united.

“Whatever the case may be, I’m sure an appeal will come, but maybe not now. Maybe in the near future. For the NPP, I’m sure we will move forward with our campaigning for the regional and national elections. And let’s see if we can come together as a united front — as brothers and sisters and as family within the party.”

Chairman Wontumi is currently serving time at Nsawam Prisons following the recent judgment. Party officials are yet to announce the next steps regarding a potential appeal.

EOCO Launches Manhunt for Emmanuel Ababio in Gold Supply Fraud Case

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EOCO Launches Manhunt for Emmanuel Ababio in Gold Supply Fraud Case

The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has declared Emmanuel Ababio wanted as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of defrauding by false pretences linked to a multi-kilogram gold transaction.

According to information available to the media, the investigation was triggered by a petition submitted by JG Resources Limited. The complaint was initially lodged with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) before the matter was transferred to EOCO for further investigation.

The petition alleges that Goldline Mining Ghana Limited, with Emmanuel Ababio identified as its controlling person, received payment to supply 29 kilograms of gold to Dubai-based Unigold Trading LLC. However, the complainant claims that only 20 kilograms were delivered, leaving an alleged shortfall of nine kilograms.

The petitioner further alleges that a subsequent payment was made for an additional 10 kilograms of gold, with the earlier nine-kilogram deficit expected to be added to the new shipment. According to the complaint, only 7.8 kilograms were subsequently delivered, resulting in an alleged outstanding balance of 11.2 kilograms.

In addition to the disputed gold deliveries, the petition claims that GH¢330,000 was paid directly to Ababio to facilitate the transportation and shipment of the gold. The complainant alleges that the shipment never materialized and that repeated assurances of delivery were not fulfilled. It is further alleged that neither the outstanding gold nor a refund has been provided.

Sources familiar with the investigation indicate that EOCO made several attempts to secure Ababio’s cooperation before issuing the wanted notice after those efforts proved unsuccessful.

EOCO has not publicly disclosed additional details regarding the investigation, and no criminal charges or court findings have yet been announced against Ababio.

The declaration comes amid increased scrutiny of Ghana’s gold trading sector, where advance financing arrangements often depend on trust, timely delivery, and strict compliance with contractual obligations. Industry observers note that failures in the supply chain can quickly escalate from commercial disputes into criminal investigations when allegations of fraud arise.

The case also highlights the importance of due diligence and risk management within Ghana’s evolving gold marketing framework. The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has introduced stricter regulatory measures for licensed aggregators, including fit-and-proper assessments, capital requirements, bank guarantees, advance payment guarantees, and enhanced supply chain traceability to reduce the risk of financial losses arising from undelivered gold.

EOCO has urged anyone with information on Emmanuel Ababio’s whereabouts to contact the Office to assist with its ongoing investigations.

Editor’s Note: The allegations outlined above are contained in a petition that is under investigation by EOCO. Emmanuel Ababio has been declared wanted in connection with the investigation but has not been convicted of any offence. The allegations remain unproven unless and until determined by a court of competent jurisdiction.

‘Enterprise’ Chairman Derrick Van Yeboah Jailed 85 Months in U.S. Over $100m Romance Scam

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‘Enterprise’ Chairman Derrick Van Yeboah Jailed 85 Months in U.S. Over $100m Romance Scam

A United States court has sentenced Ghanaian national Derrick Van Yeboah, popularly known as “Van,” to 85 months (more than seven years) in prison for his leading role in an international criminal syndicate that defrauded victims of more than $100 million through romance scams and business email compromise schemes.

Van Yeboah, identified by U.S. authorities as one of the “Chairmen” of the notorious criminal organization known as “The Enterprise,” was sentenced on July 28, 2026, by U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, Van Yeboah and his co-conspirators targeted vulnerable individuals and businesses across the United States by exploiting trust, loneliness, and legitimate business relationships to steal and launder more than $100 million.

“Romance scammers do not simply steal money—they weaponize trust,” U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said in a statement.

“Van Yeboah and his co-conspirators exploited trust, loneliness, and legitimate business relationships to steal more than $100 million. Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of these calculated frauds and our commitment to pursuing international criminal organizations that target Americans,” he added.

Investigators said Van Yeboah personally orchestrated several romance scams by posing as fake romantic partners online to manipulate victims into sending money.

Court documents revealed that between 2019 and 2020, he deceived an Ohio woman and a Delaware woman into transferring approximately $4.2 million to accounts controlled by members of the criminal enterprise.

In another scheme in 2024, Van Yeboah allegedly assumed another fake identity to scam a North Carolina man into sending about $123,000 after falsely claiming he needed money to pay for a parent’s funeral and recover gold and diamonds from Italy.

U.S. prosecutors held Van Yeboah directly responsible for stealing more than $10 million through romance fraud.

In addition to the prison sentence, the 41-year-old Ghanaian was handed two years of supervised release and ordered to forfeit $10,149,429.17.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office praised the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for leading the investigation and acknowledged the support of Ghanaian authorities in securing Van Yeboah’s extradition to the United States on August 7, 2025.

Among the Ghanaian institutions commended for their assistance were the Office of the Attorney-General’s International Cooperation Unit, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), the Ghana Police Service-INTERPOL, the Cyber Security Authority, and the National Intelligence Bureau.

The case was prosecuted by the Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Mead and Mitzi Steiner leading the prosecution.

IEAG Demands Sanctions Against Shipping Lines Over ‘Illegal’ Container Charges

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IEAG Demands Sanctions Against Shipping Lines Over ‘Illegal’ Container Charges

The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has called on the Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA) to immediately sanction shipping lines that continue to impose container administrative charges above the approved regulatory cap, describing the practice as economic sabotage.

In a press statement issued on July 28, the Association accused some shipping lines of disregarding the Ghana Shippers’ Authority’s directive, which capped the Container Administrative Charge (CAC) at GH¢720 per Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU). IEAG noted that the directive remains legally binding following a High Court ruling on July 10, 2026, which dismissed an application seeking to halt its implementation.

According to the Association, invoices issued by some shipping companies indicate that excessive charges are still being imposed on importers. It cited instances where Pacific International Lines (PIL) allegedly charged GH¢4,000 as a Container Release Order fee for a single 40-foot container, while MSC Ghana Limited reportedly charged GH¢3,870.46 as an Administrative Import Fee for a 40HC container—amounts it said are more than five times the approved charge.

IEAG argued that the continued imposition of such charges increases the cost of doing business at Ghana’s ports, with the burden ultimately falling on importers, exporters and consumers. It further accused some shipping operators of acting with impunity due to years of weak regulatory enforcement.

The Association is urging the Ghana Shippers’ Authority to invoke its powers under the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1122) by initiating enforcement proceedings against all non-compliant shipping lines, applying to the High Court for enforcement of its directive, imposing the appropriate sanctions, ordering refunds of all excess charges collected, and publishing the names of offending companies.

IEAG warned that failure by the Authority to act decisively would undermine confidence in Ghana’s regulatory framework and send a signal that lawful directives can be ignored without consequences. The Association stressed that the issue has gone beyond regulatory non-compliance and has become a test of the Authority’s resolve to enforce the law.

It further cautioned that if urgent enforcement measures are not taken, it will consider pursuing all lawful options available, including organising industrial action and possibly suspending activities at the country’s ports to protect the interests of its members.

The statement, signed by Samson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of the IEAG, reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to working with stakeholders to promote a fair, transparent and competitive shipping environment while insisting that no company is above the laws of Ghana.

 

Gold Fields Defends Tarkwa Lease Renewal as Opposition Emerges

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Gold Fields Defends Tarkwa Lease Renewal as Opposition Emerges

Gold Fields Ghana has reiterated its confidence in its application to renew the Tarkwa mining lease, arguing that its continued operation of the mine offers the strongest guarantee for sustained economic growth, employment and community development, despite objections raised by sections of the Apinto Divisional Council.

In a statement issued on Monday, the company responded to reports suggesting opposition from some traditional leaders, saying such views do not represent the long-standing relationship it has built with host communities, traditional authorities and the Government of Ghana over the past three decades. It said it remains committed to open engagement through established consultation platforms.

The mining firm maintained that its operations at the Tarkwa Mine have delivered substantial economic benefits to Ghana, citing contributions through taxes, royalties, dividends, local procurement and investments in community development. According to Gold Fields, about 74 pesewas of every cedi generated by the mine is retained within the Ghanaian economy. The company also reported paying approximately GH¢5.8 billion in taxes and statutory obligations in 2025, while spending around GH¢8.8 billion on goods and services sourced locally.

Gold Fields further highlighted the impact of the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation, which it said has invested more than US$110 million in projects covering education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, water, sanitation and environmental conservation in its host communities.

On employment, the company stated that 99 per cent of its workforce is Ghanaian, with about 70 per cent of employees at the Tarkwa Mine coming from surrounding host communities.

Providing an update on the renewal process, Gold Fields said it formally applied to extend the Tarkwa mining lease in November 2025 before submitting a comprehensive renewal proposal to the Government in July 2026. The proposal, it explained, outlines measures to increase local participation, expand procurement opportunities for Ghanaian businesses and strengthen community benefits while supporting continued investment in the mine.

The company also maintained that its financial strength, technical expertise and operational track record position it to extend the mine’s lifespan while preserving jobs and delivering long-term value to both the State and host communities. It stressed that the lease renewal process is being conducted in accordance with Ghanaian law and acknowledged that the final decision rests with the Government.

Gold Fields concluded by reaffirming its commitment to responsible mining practices, environmental stewardship and ongoing dialogue with traditional leaders, community stakeholders and government as the lease renewal process continues.

Cybersecurity Veteran Leads Ghana Vehicle Inspection Overhaul

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Cybersecurity Veteran Leads Ghana Vehicle Inspection Overhaul

Jacqueline Oppong Mensah, a former cybersecurity programme manager at Volkswagen of America, is now applying that background to automating vehicle inspections at VITO S-Class Services Ltd., a Private Vehicle Testing Station (PVTS) authorised by Ghana’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).

The push toward automated, digitally logged inspections comes against a backdrop of regulatory concern over testing fraud. The DVLA closed six PVTS facilities earlier this year for issuing roadworthy certificates without properly inspecting vehicles, according to the authority’s chief executive, Julius Neequaye Kotey, who said inspectors would keep shutting down stations that compromised testing standards. NewsGhana previously reported that VITO S-Class launched its Vehicle Inspection Management System (VIMS) at the commissioning of a new DVLA Ultra Center at Dome, a platform the company says removes manual, paper-based steps from registration through certificate issuance and adds an AI assistant for staff and customers.

Oppong Mensah, who took over as chief executive after a career spanning cybersecurity and network engineering, said the goal is to base inspection outcomes on objective technical data rather than manual judgment calls. “By combining modern automated testing equipment with our Vehicle Inspection Management System, we are reducing human interference and ensuring that every inspection is driven by objective data and the highest standards of road safety,” she said.

According to the company, her earlier roles included serving as information security manager at industrial group Kadant Inc., where she oversaw cybersecurity and network infrastructure across operations in the Americas, Europe and Asia, and security engineering positions with Symetra Financial Services and Microsoft through HCL America. Her professional certifications include the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) designations, and she holds a master’s degree in cybersecurity and policy management from the University of Maryland, the company said.

VITO S-Class has also built an AI voice assistant to guide staff and answer customer questions during inspections, part of a wider push the company says is meant to make testing outcomes harder to manipulate and easier to trace.

Akrobeto Joins Push to Enforce New Road Safety Rules

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Akrobeto Joins Push to Enforce New Road Safety Rules

Ghanaian entertainer Akwasi Boadi, known as Akrobeto, has agreed to help publicise Ghana’s amended road traffic regulations after a meeting with Deputy Transport Minister Dorcas Affo-Toffey in Accra, as the country works to bring down a crash toll that killed nearly 2,000 people in eight months last year.

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) recorded 1,937 deaths and 10,957 injuries from road crashes between January and August 2025, with acting Director-General Abraham Amaliba attributing more than 80% of cases to speeding. The authority has also pointed to indiscriminate roadside hawking, poor road engineering and weak maintenance as contributing factors.

The regulations at the centre of the new campaign, an amendment to Legislative Instrument 2180, introduce digitised enforcement tools including camera-based speed detection and spot fines, changes Affo-Toffey has said are designed to reduce direct interactions between police officers and drivers over traffic violations. She told Parliament’s Appointments Committee last year that expanding public education, improving emergency response and installing clearer road signage would also form part of the ministry’s approach to cutting fatalities.

At the meeting with Akrobeto’s delegation, Affo-Toffey said reducing crashes requires “the collective efforts of government institutions, civil society, the media, and influential public figures,” and said personalities with wide public reach could help make road safety messages resonate more broadly. Akrobeto, for his part, pledged support for the campaign and said the entertainment industry has real power to shift public attitudes and behaviour.

The two sides agreed to develop a nationwide sensitisation campaign aimed at motorists, pedestrians and commercial drivers, though neither side detailed a timeline or budget for the planned activities.

MP Says Budget Review Hides Health Spending Gaps

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MP Says Budget Review Hides Health Spending Gaps

Dr Kingsley Agyemang, a Minority member of Parliament’s Health Committee, says Ghana’s 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review left major health allocations unaccounted for, with actual spending trailing far behind what government had approved.

Addressing a press conference, the Abuakwa South MP said government had allocated roughly GH¢34.1 billion to the health sector for 2026, split between GH¢22.8 billion in direct appropriations and GH¢11.2 billion for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. He argued the Public Financial Management Act requires a mid-year review to compare those allocations against actual expenditure on compensation, goods and services, and capital projects, and said Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson’s review did not provide that breakdown.

On the NHIS specifically, Agyemang said only about GH¢3.4 billion of the GH¢11.2 billion allocated to the scheme and the Medical Trust Fund had been spent by the middle of the year, roughly 30% of the annual figure, despite government having promoted the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Levy. “Simply uncapping the levy is insufficient if funds are not released to enable the National Health Insurance Authority to operate effectively,” he said.

He raised a similar concern about nursing training, saying only about 30% of the GH¢144 million allocated for the year had been spent by mid-year, with the review offering no explanation for the shortfall. Agyemang also renewed criticism of a recent nursing recruitment exercise, alleging that the application portal opened around midnight and closed before 6 a.m., leaving many qualified applicants without a realistic chance to apply.

Agyemang further said the review omitted progress updates on hospital projects government had committed to in the original 2026 Budget, including the completion of three regional hospitals, new hospitals at Bole and Sampa, 10 hospitals under the Agenda 111 programme, and continuing work on La General Hospital, Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital maternity block and the Ashanti Regional Hospital at Sewua, along with upgrades to seven hospitals for maternal and child healthcare.

Separately, Agyemang linked Ghana’s reported rise in HIV infections to what he described as underinvestment in preventive healthcare, arguing that testing, public education and uninterrupted antiretroviral treatment are among the services most exposed when health spending falls short of approved budgets.

The Finance Ministry and Ministry of Health had not responded to Agyemang’s specific claims as of publication.

MP Alleges Conflict of Interest in Finance Minister’s Constituency Projects

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MP Alleges Conflict of Interest in Finance Minister’s Constituency Projects

Opposition MP Patrick Yaw Boamah has accused Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson of undermining his own procurement reforms, citing contracts he alleges were awarded through single-source and restricted tendering in the minister’s home constituency.

Presenting the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review to Parliament, Ato Forson had announced measures to tighten public procurement, including cutting national competitive tendering time for goods from 25 weeks to 8 weeks, shortening international competitive tendering for works from 27 to 14 weeks, and limiting single-source and restricted tendering to exceptional cases such as emergencies, national security or when only one supplier can deliver a service.

Boamah, the New Patriotic Party MP for Okaikwei Central, told Parliament those commitments were inconsistent with procurement he attributed to projects around Ajumako, the Finance Minister’s home constituency. He alleged that the 111-kilometre, roughly $250 million Mankessim-Ajumako-Swedru road project and a GH¢200 million military barracks in Ajumako were awarded through single-source procurement, and that a GH¢850 million specialist hospital project in the area was procured through restricted tendering. “If the Minister comes to tell us that he is tightening procurement rules and regime, then I don’t believe in what he is talking about,” he said.

Boamah also alleged a conflict of interest in the oversight of procurement tied to the constituency, claiming that the Finance Minister’s constituency chairman serves as chairman of the Central Tender Review Committee, while another person from the same constituency serves as deputy chief executive officer of the Public Procurement Authority, a body that falls under the Finance Ministry. Neither the Finance Ministry nor Ato Forson had responded to the specific allegations as of publication.

Boamah separately questioned government’s prioritisation of the Ajumako projects while cocoa farmers in the area remained unpaid, and renewed criticism of the government’s record on job creation and public sector pay, including its campaign pledge to create 800,000 jobs and a promised “three-shift” employment programme for young people. He also referenced government’s stated plan to commit more than $500 million to reviving Ghana’s oil palm industry under the Tree Crops Development Authority Act, which Parliament passed to bring oil palm and other tree crops under a unified regulatory body.

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