Ghana’s Growing Reliance on Costly Liquid Fuels Threatens Energy Sector Stability, Says CEMSE Analysis
In 2025, the story of Ghana’s energy sector took a worrying turn. A new analysis by the Centre for Environmental Management and Sustainable Energy (CEMSE), led by Benjamin Nsiah, revealed mounting concerns over the country’s increasing dependence on expensive liquid fuels to keep the lights on. For years, Ghana’s power plants have relied on natural gas as their main source of fuel, with liquid fuels such as Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO), Diesel Fuel Oil (DFO), and Light Crude Oil (LCO) serving as backup during gas shortages. But as the supply of natural gas faltered between 2021 and 2025, backup fuels became the mainstay. The cost of this shift has proven staggering. The CEMSE report found that thermal generation continues to dominate Ghana’s electricity sector, making up about 70 percent of the nation’s dependable generation capacity by 2025. As gas supply disruptions became more frequent, power producers increasingly turned to liquid fuels, at a steep financial cost. The numbers tell a dramatic story. In 2025, the use of Heavy Fuel Oil for power generation surged to 133,237 metric tonnes, a jaw-dropping 947 percent increase from the previous year. The bill for this HFO alone was estimated at US$80.6 million. Diesel Fuel Oil, which had been used only sparingly in 2021 and 2022, saw a significant jump in consumption, with costs reaching US$32.39 million in 2025. Light Crude Oil imports for power plants also soared, from US$36.57 million in 2024 to about US$116.8 million in 2025, a 210 percent spike. Altogether, the combined cost of HFO, DFO, and LCO for the year hit an eye-watering US$229.89 million, translating to roughly US$19.16 million in monthly expenditure. CEMSE’s analysis warned that these escalating costs are not fully accounted for in Ghana’s electricity tariffs. This means the government is forced to rely heavily on petroleum levies to keep the sector afloat, further straining public finances. The report attributed the growing reliance on liquid fuels to persistent deficits in natural gas supply, a trend, it warned, that jeopardizes the financial sustainability of the entire energy sector. With the threat of mounting debt and instability looming, CEMSE called for urgent action. The Centre urged policymakers to address gas supply challenges, diversify the country’s energy sources, improve fuel procurement practices, and reduce Ghana’s exposure to expensive liquid fuels. Only through these steps, the report emphasized, can Ghana secure a more stable and affordable energy future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Strikes Decisively at Dawusaso
The usually quiet community of Dawusaso in the Amansie South District was jolted into action. The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), through its Manso Adubia task force, launched a decisive operation targeting illegal mining activities devastating the Offin River. The mission began shortly before noon, as credible intelligence reached the NAIMOS team about organized illegal mining in the area. With urgency and precision, the task force mobilized from their base in Manso Adubia, setting their sights on the banks of the Offin River where miners had reportedly diverted sections of the river into an artificial dam, a tactic threatening both the environment and the communities downstream. As the team arrived, they encountered a flurry of activity. Several individuals, including women, were found working frantically at the river, operating changfan machines that churned up the water and the riverbed. The sudden appearance of the task force sent the miners scattering into the surrounding bush, leaving their equipment behind. Despite most suspects fleeing, the task force apprehended one individual: Xiao Weixin, a 41-year-old Chinese national who had made Dawusaso his home. On him, the operatives found an Apsonic tricycle, two Gota radio sets, and a Huawei mobile phone, all secured as evidence. The destruction left behind by the illegal miners was evident. The Offin River, once a lifeline for the community, had been deliberately diverted, its flow manipulated to feed the miners’ artificial dam. This, authorities noted, posed a serious threat to the river’s ecological balance and the well-being of those who depend on its waters. Determined to put an end to the destruction, the task force set ablaze two changfan machines mounted directly on the river, rendering them inoperable. They also discovered three excavators, two Caterpillar and one Sany, abandoned at the site. The operators, in a bid to thwart seizure, had removed the machines’ monitors and keys, while the chassis numbers were so corroded they were unreadable. The story did not end there. On their way to the main site, the NAIMOS team intercepted another group of illegal miners near the Dawusaso road. Once again, the suspects fled into the bush, but the operatives managed to retrieve a drum of diesel left behind in the chaos. With Xiao Weixin in custody, the task force transported him to the NAIMOS Secretariat in Accra for further investigation. He will be handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for the next phase of action. The Dawusaso operation is a stark reminder of NAIMO’s relentless commitment to protecting the Offin River. The Secretariat has assured the public that it will not relent in its efforts to restore the river’s integrity, vowing to intensify actions against destructive mining activities, particularly those that alter the natural course of the river. Through coordinated enforcement and swift action, NAIMOS continues its fight to preserve Ghana’s precious water bodies for generations to come. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah Empowers Bolgatanga Dressmakers with Sewing Machines and Cash Donation
At the 2026 graduation ceremony of the Bolgatanga Central Zone One branch of the Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association (GNTDA), hope and opportunity took center stage. The guest of honor, Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah, Former Upper East Regional Women’s Organizer of the NDC and Deputy Director General of Warehouse of NADMO, made a generous donation of 30 sewing machines and GH₵5,000 cash to the association. Hajia Charity explained that her donation was aimed at supporting the association’s mission to train more young people, particularly young women, in the craft of dressmaking. “As a daughter of this region, I understand the challenges many young ladies face in their daily lives. For some, even having three square meals a day is a struggle. That is why seeing all of you, young graduates, standing before me today is deeply meaningful. I know it has not been easy to get here, and for that, I say a big congratulations to every one of you”. She told the gathering. She commended GNTDA for its steadfast commitment to equipping the youth with valuable, employable skills and encouraged the association to further expand its training programs. Addressing the apprentices, Hajia Charity urged the youth, especially young women, to take their handiwork seriously, emphasizing the potential for vocational training to pave the way for a brighter future. “I want to admonish the youth of this region, especially the ladies, to take their handiwork seriously and become better people in the future,” she advised. Pledging her ongoing support, Hajia Charity promised to assist the association whenever the need arises. The ceremony was also marked by the graduation of 73 apprentices from the Bolgatanga Central Zone One branch. Leaders of the association took the opportunity to call on government authorities to prioritize support for local dressmakers, encouraging efforts to help new graduates establish their own businesses locally rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alagumgube Association Rallies Behind “LA Buuri Yela” at Official Launch
In a colourful ceremony that blended academic excellence with community pride, the official launch of “LA Buuri Yela”, a new Ghanaian language book for Basic Schools approved by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), was held to honour the remarkable dedication of author Issaac Akariborga. The event was not just a book launch but a celebration of perseverance. Mr. Akariborga, a past student of the School of Languages and currently a university student, wears another vital uniform: that of an officer with the Ghana National Fire Service. His ability to juggle academic advancement, public service, and authorship drew enthusiastic praise from attendees, who hailed him as an inspiration for promoting Ghanaian language education under the newly approved curriculum. Strong community backing came from the Alagumgube Association, which demonstrated its commitment by donating GH₵10,000 plus an additional GH₵400 to ensure the launch’s success. Speaking on behalf of the association’s founder and members abroad, PRO Paulina Adabre reaffirmed the group’s unwavering support for education and community development. Presiding over the programme, chairman Naba Sadick Ayine commended the Alagumgube Association for its numerous community development projects. The climax of the event came when the Ghana Education Service Director officially accepted the book, applauding Mr. Akariborga for his hard work and significant contribution to education in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Nigerian Engineer Michael Amuzie Bags NJDOL Public Service Award in America
Nigerian-born engineer and public service professional, Chief Michael Amuzie, has been honoured with the prestigious NJDOL Public Service Award in Trenton, New Jersey, USA, in recognition of his contributions to engineering regulation, workplace safety advocacy, and public administration. The award, presented in the United States, has attracted commendation from members of the Nigerian diaspora community and professional bodies who described the recognition as another testament to the growing impact of Nigerians excelling in strategic sectors abroad. Amuzie, an accomplished engineering professional and title holder of Gburugburu 1 of Umuaka in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State, has built a reputation for excellence in mechanical engineering, regulatory compliance, and public sector service. Based in New Jersey, Chief Amuzie is the Chairman of the Governor’s Rules Board as well as the head of the New Jersey Mechanical Inspection Bureau of Boiler & Pressure Vessel Compliance (MIBB&PVC). He has over the years, been involved in initiatives relating to engineering inspections, safety standards, and institutional accountability within the American regulatory system. His professional accomplishments earned him appointments and responsibilities as he presently represents the State of New Jersey in both the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Conference Committee and the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI). The NJDOL Public Service Award is associated with the New Jersey Department of Labour and Workforce Development, one of the major state institutions responsible for labour administration, workforce development, worker protection, occupational safety compliance, and employment services in New Jersey. The NJDOL said in an official statement that the “Employee Spotlight Award” received by Engineer Amuzie recognized individuals who demonstrate exceptional performance, professionalism, and dedication to supporting their team and the organization’s mission. “Michael Amuzie is a positive role model and always the consummate professional when collaborating with his peers both internally and externally. He has distinguished himself through his leadership, knowledge, hard work, and integrity. He has supported the professional development of his staff, encouraging them to seek higher education and professional certifications and development to advance their careers, ” the statement reads in part. The department plays a critical role in enforcing labour laws, improving workplace standards, supporting workers’ welfare, and promoting economic opportunities through skills development and workforce initiatives across the state. Observers noted that recognition from an institution linked to such an important public agency underscores the level of trust and confidence reposed in Amuzie’s professional competence and dedication to service. Speaking after receiving the award, Amuzie expressed gratitude for the honour and dedicated it to Nigerians striving for excellence across the world. “This recognition is not just about me personally; it is about the values of hard work, integrity, professionalism, and service,” he said. “We must continue to show that Nigerians everywhere can contribute positively to society and help strengthen institutions through dedication and competence.” He further encouraged young Nigerians, especially those in the diaspora, to remain focused on professional development and ethical leadership. “Every opportunity to serve should be seen as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Young Nigerians must believe that excellence and integrity still matter,” he added. Members of the Nigerian community in the United States praised Chief Amuzie for what they described as his consistency, humility, and commitment to public service. Some community leaders noted that his recognition reflects positively on Nigeria at a time when many citizens abroad are distinguishing themselves in medicine, engineering, academia, technology, business, and public administration. Analysts also described the honour as symbolic of the increasing visibility of Nigerians in leadership and technical positions across global institutions. They argued that such recognitions help counter negative stereotypes about Nigeria by projecting stories of competence, innovation, and service. For many young professionals in the diaspora, Amuzie’s achievement is being viewed as an inspiration and proof that sustained dedication and professionalism can open doors to global recognition and leadership opportunities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana
Talensi Woman Alleges Soldier Brutality During Peaceful Protest at Cardinal Namdini Mine
The main road entrance of Cardinal Namdini Mining Limited stood unusually crowded on Friday morning, but not with workers reporting for duty. Instead, a heavy contingent of police officers lined the road, their presence a clear signal that something was brewing in this quiet corner of Talensi in the Upper East Region of Ghana. And then they came, dozens of residents marching with determined steps and raised voices. Their chants echoed off the dusty road as they gathered before the mining company’s entrance, holding aloft placards that painted a picture of deep-seated grievance. The protest was peaceful but charged with years of frustration. According to several residents who spoke on condition of anonymity, the company that had promised jobs and development had instead delivered marginalization. “They treat us like strangers in our own land,” one elderly man said, his voice trembling. “We see the trucks hauling wealth away every day, but our children still have no clean water. Our farms are damaged. And when we ask for help, they look the other way.” The placards carried blunt, bitter messages that left no room for interpretation. “Stop discrimination against the locals,” one read. Another declared: “Stop dividing communities.” A third, held high by a middle-aged farmer, stated simply: “Talensi land full of gold, yet the people are poor.” Other signs bore even more desperate pleas: “Poor houses, no food,” “Proper farmer compensation now,” and “No employment, no Cardinal Namdini.” For hours, the demonstration remained a war of words and wills. The police maintained a visible but restrained presence, neither engaging the crowd nor retreating. But then, witnesses say, the atmosphere changed. According to multiple demonstrators who spoke to this reporter, the soldiers did not attempt to negotiate or disperse the crowd verbally. Instead, they moved directly toward the front lines of the protest, swinging batons and pushing people back. In the ensuing chaos, a woman – later identified as one of the key voices among the marchers – says she was beaten. “I was not holding any weapon. I was not shouting insults. I only demonstrated for the mining company unfair treatment against us,” she recounted, wincing as she lifted her sleeve to reveal dark purple marks on her dark skin. “The soldier looked at me, and he beat me like I was a criminal. For what? For asking that our own gold benefits our own children?” The alleged beating lasted only seconds, but its impact rippled through the gathering. Several other protesters rushed to the woman’s aid, and the soldiers eventually withdrew to the perimeter. The protest did not turn violent – remarkably, the marchers continued to chant but stepped back, creating a ring of space around the injured woman. Some offered water. Others photographed her injuries on their phones, vowing to send the images to human rights groups. The police later issued a brief statement saying they were “aware of an incident” but admonished the demonstrators to reorganize themselves and come back since there was an injunction for they not to demonstrate. Meanwhile, Cardinal Namdini Mining Limited has not yet commented directly on the allegation of soldier brutality. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr Jinapor Urges NDC Supporters to Be Patient as Government Works to Improve Livelihoods
During a spirited gathering in the Savannah Region, the Member of Parliament for Yapei Kusawgu and Minister for Energy, Dr John Abdulai Jinapor, addressed enthusiastic supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) with a message of patience and unity. The occasion was NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah’s thank-you tour on Thursday, May 14, where expectations for jobs and economic support ran high among party faithful. Dr Jinapor, aware of the community’s hopes, acknowledged the pressing demands for employment and business opportunities. “I will plead with you to be patient with the government. We are barely two years in office. We know you need jobs, we know you need businesses,” he assured the crowd. Highlighting the government’s commitment, Dr Jinapor shared recent initiatives aimed at supporting local farmers, including his personal funding for 2,000 bags of fertiliser and 2,000 bags of weedicides this year. “So please exercise patience for the party,” he urged, emphasizing that these measures are just the beginning of broader efforts to uplift livelihoods in the region. But Dr Jinapor’s appeal wasn’t just for patience; it was also for peace and party unity. He cautioned against resorting to violence or divisive actions that could jeopardize the NDC’s political fortunes. “If we are sharing while in office, it is just a matter of time, everybody will get some, but when we use violence and it lands the party in opposition, it will be our loss,” he warned, underscoring the importance of solidarity. Looking ahead, the Energy Minister reassured residents that the government is making preparations to provide pipe-borne water and improve local roads as part of ongoing development projects. Dr Jinapor’s story is one of hope, urging supporters to stand together and trust that their patience will be rewarded as the government’s initiatives take root. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Ghana Chamber of Mines Warns: Could Ghana Lose Its Gold Crown?
Ing. Ken Ashigbey, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, delivered a message that echoed through Ghana’s mining sector. “The reason why we became the number one mining destination in Africa is because of some of the decisions we took. Let’s not reverse them,” he cautioned, his words carrying the weight of decades of mining history. Ghana, long celebrated in history books as Africa’s leading gold producer, now finds itself at a crossroads. The Chamber’s warning comes amid growing concerns that policy shifts could erode the investor confidence that has long fueled the nation’s mining industry. Ashigbey’s caution follows a recent proposal by the Institute of Economic Affairs, which urged the government not to approve a 20-year lease extension for Gold Fields’s Tarkwa Mine. The Institute argues for greater state control and increased local participation in the sector. But Ashigbey’s message was clear: while reform is necessary, Ghana must not lose sight of the stability and predictability that has made it an investment magnet. The threat is not just from within. In neighboring Côte d’Ivoire, officials are rolling out ambitious strategies to transform their country into Africa’s next gold giant within the next decade. “Côte d’Ivoire has developed a long-term strategy aimed at becoming Africa’s leading gold producer,” Ashigbey explained. Both Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire share similar geological riches, their gold deposits stretching across borders. But investors, he warned, can easily shift their attention, and their capital, to countries that offer more attractive and stable environments. Evidence of this shift is already visible. The Chamber has observed a movement of mining investments and Ghanaian entrepreneurs into Côte d’Ivoire, drawn by its evolving policies and investor-friendly climate. Ashigbey emphasized the need for Ghana to not just attract foreign investors but also retain its local talent and capital. “We need to make sure that we are attracting the investment capital but not only foreign, local investment capital as well. There are Ghanaians who now want to go and set up in Cote d’Ivoire,” he noted. As Ghana stands at this critical juncture, the story of its mining sector is being rewritten. The next chapters will depend on whether policymakers choose to safeguard the confidence of investors, both local and foreign, or risk losing the nation’s golden legacy to its ambitious neighbors. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bawumia Defies Arrest Threats, Says NPP Will Not Be Silenced
The flagbearer of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared that the party will not be cowed or intimidated by the recent arrests involving some of its members, insisting that the NPP remains determined to take its message and political ideas to the people of Ghana. His remarks come at a time of growing unease within the party following a series of arrests targeting prominent NPP figures by security agencies. Among those recently arrested are the Bono Regional Chairman of the NPP, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, as well as the Agona West NPP Organiser, David Essendoh. The developments have sparked concern among party supporters, with many questioning the motive behind the actions. Speaking during an engagement with student leaders at the University of Ghana on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, ahead of a three-day boot camp organised by the NPP, Dr. Bawumia struck a defiant tone, assuring party faithful that the arrests would not discourage the party from actively participating in national political discourse. According to him, the NPP’s response would not be driven by fear, but rather by sustained engagement with Ghanaians through debate and the presentation of ideas. “We will take the debate and ideas to the country, and we will make our case. We are, however, saying that we will not be intimidated,” Dr. Bawumia stated. He further stressed the party’s resolve by declaring that no amount of arrests would silence the NPP. “You can arrest all of us. We will come back and make our case to the people of Ghana,” he added. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Court battle brews over assets in Richard Nii Armah Quaye divorce casek
A fresh legal battle has emerged between businessman Richard Nii Armah Quaye and his former wife, Joana Quaye, as she seeks a court injunction to prevent the sale or transfer of several properties, luxury vehicles, and company shares allegedly acquired during their marriage. Mrs. Quaye has filed an application at the Divorce and Matrimonial Division of the Accra High Court, asking the court to restrain her ex-husband from disposing of selected assets while an appeal relating to their divorce settlement remains pending. According to court documents submitted by Dame & Partners on her behalf, the disputed assets include interests in multiple companies, residential properties, and high-end vehicles, which she argues were jointly acquired during the course of their marriage and should therefore be subject to equitable distribution. In an affidavit supporting the application, Mrs. Quaye recounted the history of their relationship, revealing that the couple first met in 2002 shortly after completing secondary school before officially marrying in 2010. She claimed she played a significant role in supporting Mr. Quaye financially and personally during the early stages of his academic and business journey. According to her, part of that support contributed to the establishment of Quick Credit Company Limited, now operating as Bills Micro Credit. Mrs. Quaye further stated that before their marriage, they operated a joint bank account and invested together, adding that proceeds from those investments were used to support Mr. Quaye’s studies in the United Kingdom. Upon his return to Ghana, she alleged that they jointly explored business opportunities and invested personal savings into setting up a microfinance business. The affidavit also stated that in 2011, the couple jointly incorporated Quick Micro Credit and Investment Limited, where both served as directors and shareholders. However, Mrs. Quaye alleged that her name was later removed from company records without her knowledge or consent, an issue she said surfaced during proceedings in the divorce case. Among the assets listed in the application are shareholding interests in companies such as Quick Credit, Quick Angels, Waterfall Engineering, Tigon Entertainment, Ridge Medical Centre, and CEQA Foods. The application also references residential properties located at Trasacco Estates, East Legon, Dansoman, and Mamprobi, in addition to several luxury vehicles believed to be part of the disputed marital assets. Mrs. Quaye is therefore urging the court to preserve the assets until the appeal is determined, arguing that any attempt to transfer or dispose of them could make it difficult to enforce a future judgment should the appeal succeed. The affidavit additionally raised concerns about aspects of the original divorce judgment delivered on January 20, 2026. Mrs. Quaye contended that delays in obtaining the full written judgment affected her ability to properly exercise her right of appeal.