Ghana Secures $300 Million World Bank Support to Transform Secondary Education
In what looks like a major boost for Ghana’s educational reform agenda, the Ministry of Education has announced that the World Bank has approved a US$300 million financing package to support the implementation of the Transformative Secondary Education for Access, Results and Relevance for Jobs (STARR-J) Project. Unveiled in a statement on June 16, 2026, the ministry revealed that the STARR-J Project aims to strengthen the country’s secondary education system by widening access, enhancing quality and relevance, and tackling infrastructure challenges that have emerged with the expansion of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. A key focus of the new project is the government’s pledge to end the double-track system in senior high schools nationwide, a system introduced to accommodate increased enrolment under the Free SHS programme. Through targeted investments in school infrastructure, improved learning environments, and greater operational efficiency, the government expects that by 2027, no secondary school in Ghana will operate under the double-track arrangement. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu described the World Bank’s approval as a transformative investment in Ghana’s youth and future workforce. “This initiative will expand learning opportunities, improve school conditions, better align secondary education with the needs of the labour market, and address the infrastructure deficit linked to Free SHS,” he said. The Ministry of Education extended its gratitude to World Bank Country Director Robert Taliercio O’Brien, the World Bank education team, and the Ministry of Finance, led by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, for their instrumental support in securing the funding. According to the ministry, the STARR-J Project underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to providing equitable access to quality secondary education, and to preparing students with the knowledge and skills they need for a rapidly changing world. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire Join Forces to Harmonise Cocoa Pricing, Boost Farmers’ Incomes
Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, the world’s two leading cocoa producers, have taken a historic step to harmonise their cocoa producer pricing policies. This landmark agreement aims to improve the livelihoods of millions of cocoa farmers, strengthen market stability, and foster deeper cooperation between the two nations. The announcement came from Ghana’s Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, following the 7th Meeting of the Steering Committee of the Côte d’Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative (CIGCI), held in Abidjan on June 16, 2026. Presenting the committee’s conclusions, Dr. Forson revealed that both countries would adopt measures to align farm gate prices, ensuring that cocoa farmers on both sides of the border receive comparable incomes for their crops. Key elements of the agreement include enhanced collaboration between trading rooms, increased sharing of market data, and the harmonisation of cocoa crop calendars. By aligning the principles used to set cocoa prices, the two countries hope to reduce disparities in producer prices and eliminate cross-border price differentials that have historically contributed to smuggling and market instability. To turn this vision into reality, a technical task force made up of experts from both countries will be established. Their mission: to develop a coordinated pricing framework and periodically review producer prices to keep them fair and competitive. Another significant milestone is the agreement to harmonise cocoa crop calendars, with the cocoa year now set to run from September 1 to August 31, starting with the 2026/2027 season. This synchronisation is expected to streamline market operations and make price management more efficient. The steering committee, co-chaired by Dr. Forson and Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Agriculture, Bruno Nabagné Koné, reaffirmed its commitment to long-term coordination in cocoa price management and marketing. The meeting also explored avenues for scientific cooperation, sustainable cocoa production, and regional collaboration, all with the goal of building a more resilient and prosperous cocoa sector. Together, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire account for more than half of global cocoa output. By working hand in hand, they are not only improving the welfare of their farmers but also setting a new course for stability and sustainability in the world cocoa market. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East Region Sees Boom in Schools, Health Projects, and 24-Hour Markets—Jonathan Abdallah Salifu
A wave of transformative development is sweeping through the Upper East Region, as the government’s new approach to infrastructure and social services begins to take hold at the district level. Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, Upper East Regional Communication Officer for the NDC, recently shared an inside look at how hospitals, CHIPS compounds, schools, and market projects are being rolled out like never before. According to the Regional Communication Officer, the rules have changed for the better. District assemblies are now tasked with building two schools and two CHIPS compounds every year using the District Assembly Common Fund, and, crucially, they must now provide furniture for every new classroom. “We don’t want a situation where school blocks are put up and the issue of furniture becomes a problem,” he explained. Now, when a school or CHIPS compound is built, it’s also furnished, which explains the higher price tags on recent contracts. Efforts have also intensified to tackle water shortages, with additional boreholes and water systems being installed under the assemblies’ watch. The regional minister himself has crisscrossed all districts, cutting sod for landmark projects like the much-anticipated 24-hour markets. “The region has enjoyed over 115 projects, which is unprecedented,” Jonathan said. “It has never happened before.” Education, too, is getting a major boost. Almost every senior high school is receiving infrastructure upgrades. Schools like Navrongo Senior High (NAVASCO), which has long needed a proper fence wall, are finally seeing that dream materialize, with a brand-new 18-unit classroom block thrown in. Other schools, from Sandema to Bawku, are also enjoying facelifts, new blocks, and better facilities, thanks to support from GETFund and local government. Even entirely new schools are being built, complete with dormitories, teachers’ accommodation, dining and assembly halls, and modern WASH facilities. The new 24-hour markets are another feather in the region’s cap. Every district has received land for these markets, and contractors are already hard at work. Funding is transparent and reliable: 25% of each district’s common fund is set aside for these projects, a stark contrast to previous initiatives whose funding sources were often unclear by the NPP administration. Meanwhile, the University for Development Studies (UDS) is making strides toward a fully operational medical school. Key auxiliary departments are already running, and recruitment is on for more lecturers. For now, the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital will serve as a teaching facility, with future upgrades planned to meet the medical school’s requirements. Mr.Jonathan took pride in these achievements, noting that all this has happened within just a year and a half of the NDC’s administration. “If you ask any of our political opponents what they achieved in one and a half years, they cannot mention,” he said. He commended the president, the MPs, and all stakeholders pushing tirelessly for development, often working behind the scenes and facing criticism for the sake of their constituents. Mr. Jonathan also called for constructive criticism of MPs. “They should be criticized positively,” he urged, lamenting that some critics attack MPs simply for belonging to the opposite party. In contrast, he sees the region’s MPs as responsive and hardworking, always striving to bring more progress home. He believes, the Upper East Region is experiencing an era of record-breaking development: stronger schools, better healthcare, new markets, and a collaborative spirit between government and people. The future, it seems, is brighter than ever. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC’s Jonathan Abdallah Salifu Shares Real Update on Upper East Region Road Infrastructure
Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, the Upper East Regional Communication Officer of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), has given a candid account of the state of road infrastructure in the Upper East Region, painting a vivid picture of both the challenges and ongoing efforts to improve the situation. Jonathan began by acknowledging what everyone in the region knows: “When it comes to road infrastructure, the Upper East is lagging behind.” The region’s most important highway, the Bolga-Tamale Road, is in poor condition. Built over twenty years ago by President Rawlings, the road has outlived its lifespan, yet residents continue to make do with its deteriorating state. According to Jonathan, the previous government under President Akufo-Addo had made attempts to address the issue by awarding a dualization and bitumen resurfacing contract to an Indian contractor. However, after mobilizing with $25 million and bringing equipment near Savulgu, the contractor disappeared, leaving the equipment behind and the project abandoned. The road minister, upon visiting the region, promised to follow up on the contract and hinted at possibly including the project in the government’s ambitious “Big Push” agenda. This, at least, offered the region a glimmer of hope. Turning to the Bolga-Bawku Road, Jonathan recalled how funding for its construction was sourced from two London-based banks during President Akufo-Addo’s tenure. Unfortunately, work stalled around 2022-2023, largely due to Ghana’s debt restructuring program. Contractors, uncertain about payments, withdrew from the site. In response, Jonathan himself organized a press conference, laying out the facts and figures behind the stalling of the project. There was renewed hope when Hon. Isaac Adongo announced that the funding had been reinstated after meetings in London during an IMF program. The Finance Minister echoed this optimism, stating that the banks had agreed to continue funding not only the Bolga-Bawku Road but also other projects across the country. However, delays persisted as the banks sought to renegotiate terms, causing further setbacks. Jonathan recounted how construction resumed briefly, with contractors even working on a key bridge, but further legal and financial clarifications were needed. Meanwhile, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, while launching another project in Bawku, assured the public that negotiations with the banks were ongoing and that work was expected to resume soon. The conversation then shifted to the Kuala Bridge, a critical but dangerous crossing along the Bolga East route. Jonathan shared concerns from community members about the bridge’s hazardous condition, questioning why local leaders couldn’t implement a temporary fix. He explained the complexities of road contracts, once a project is awarded, making independent changes can be challenging. He pointed that the regional minister had attempted a temporary solution, but community resistance, fueled by demands for a permanent bitumen surface, halted progress. Jonathan noted that the Bolga East MP Dr. Dominic Ayine, who also serves as Attorney General, was quietly working behind the scenes to resolve the issue, expressing confidence in his capabilities. Jonathan also highlighted the efforts of other MPs in the region. The Nabdam MP Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, for example, has been pushing the road ministry to resume work on several abandoned roads, such as the Asonge-Zanlerigu-Damolgo-Pelingu Road (awarded in 2023 but quickly abandoned) and the Nangodi-Yankuti-Pelingu Road (awarded in 2018 and left incomplete). The MP is seeking new commitments from the ministry to either repackage these projects for different contractors or secure stronger assurances from the current ones. There was better news for the Tongo-Sheega-Pelingu Road, a 12.5-kilometer stretch that had recently seen a contractor move to site to begin mapping and preparation for full construction. Similarly, the Navrongo-Naga-Kolugu Road, a key route connecting major educational institutions, was set for a revival after the MP announced that the contractor’s payments had been settled, paving the way for work to resume soon. Within Bawku township, Hon. Mahama Ayariga announced a 30-million-cedi investment to improve three major areas, further signaling progress in the region. Hon. Isaac Adongo was also credited with securing funding for the Ojam Junction to Kalbeo stretch, with contractors actively working on site offices. Jonathan concluded by emphasizing the importance of keeping the public informed and maintaining optimism. “Even though we wish we had already completed many of these roads, we’re not disappointed,” he said. “A year and a half into office, these are our achievements.” He also highlighted the “Big Push” roads from Navrongo to Tumu and Wa, noting that significant portions were already usable, giving travelers hope and prompting widespread praise for the government’s efforts. While the Upper East Region continues to face significant challenges in road infrastructure, Jonathan Abdallah Salifu’s update reveals a region in transition, marked by setbacks, determined advocacy, and cautious optimism for the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Our Government’s Achievements in Upper East Are Very Remarkable” — Jonathan Abdallah Salifu
The Upper East Region is witnessing a new wave of optimism as Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, the Regional Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), shared encouraging updates on the government’s progress in the region. Speaking to Apexnewsgh on Speakout Upper East, , Salifu emphasized that, despite being only a year and a half into President Mahama’s administration, the region is already seeing tangible signs of development and hope for the future. Reflecting on the government’s tenure so far, Salifu stated, “We haven’t even reached half of our term, yet if you look at what has been accomplished, the results are remarkable. Our manifesto was designed for a four-year term, not just for one or two years, so benchmarking our progress now shows we are on the right track.” One of the flagship projects mentioned was the regional airport. According to Salifu, all the necessary documentation and arrangements have been finalized with the Ghana Airport Company. “Within just one and a half years, this is an excellent achievement. During the eight years under the previous NPP administration, we saw nothing but confusion regarding project allocation and land matters,” he noted. “Now, with everything in place, we are hopeful to see the president commission the project soon.” Salifu also highlighted efforts to revive two key local industries: the Pawlungu Tomatoes Factory, now known as Northern Star, and the Zuarungu Meat Factory. He pointed out that, apart from an attempt by President Kufour in the past, little had been done to bring these factories back to life until now. The communication officer revealed that the MCE had reached out to Testy Tom, a well-known tomato processing company, to assess the potential takeover of the tomatoes factory. The hope is that this move will empower farmers to resume large-scale tomato cultivation, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. Regarding the Zuarungu Meat Factory, Salifu recounted a recent conversation with the area’s Member of Parliament, Dr. Dominic Ayine, who personally financed a consultant to conduct a thorough assessment of the facility. The consultant’s report outlines the costs involved in reviving the factory and explores alternative options for its use. With this documentation in hand, Dr. Ayine is prepared to approach the president for further direction, a step Salifu described as bold and promising. “These achievements have all taken place within just one and a half years,” Salifu concluded, expressing confidence that the NDC government’s ongoing efforts would continue to bring meaningful development to the Upper East Region. The message was clear: the groundwork is being laid, and the region is poised for continued progress under President Mahama’s leadership. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Nabdam to Benefit from Free Primary Healthcare Kiosk—MP Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Announces
It was a day of hope and celebration in the Nabdam Constituency as Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the Member of Parliament, and unveiled exciting news during the commissioning of a new Maternity Block. Speaking to the gathered community members, Dr. Nawaane revealed that Nabdam would be among the 50- 60 constituencies nationwide selected to receive a Primary Healthcare Special Market Kiosk package. Dr. Nawaane explained the motivation behind this initiative. “Primary Health Care is mainly about preventive medicine, stopping sickness before it even starts,” he shared. He recounted how many women, especially those working in the bustling Pelingu market, often forego routine medical checkups due to busy schedules or lack of access. Tragically, this sometimes means that manageable conditions like hypertension go unnoticed until they escalate into severe complications such as strokes or kidney failure. “With the introduction of the health kiosk right at the market, our mothers and sisters won’t have to wait until they are seriously ill before seeking help,” Dr. Nawaane emphasized. The new kiosk will offer checkups and treatment for minor illnesses, including blood pressure screening, all at no cost. “By catching these issues early, we can prevent major health crises before they happen.” He stressed that the services would be entirely free. “You don’t need to pay anything. Whether or not you have national health insurance, you can walk in, get checked, and receive assistance at no charge,” Dr. Nawaane assured the community. However, he also encouraged everyone to maintain their national health insurance for broader health coverage. Nabdam is proud to be chosen in the first phase of this important project, which will see 50 to 60 such kiosks established across the country. Dr. Nawaane believes the initiative will be especially valuable in Pelingu, where market women stand to benefit the most by gaining easy access to essential primary healthcare. The new health kiosk promises to be a lifeline for many, bringing accessible, preventive care to the heart of Nabdam’s busy markets and helping ensure a healthier future for its people. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Special Police Team Deployed to Cape Coast Following Student’s Death
When the tragic news of a University of Cape Coast student’s death reached the authorities, Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno knew immediate action was crucial. Without delay, he assembled a special task force of seasoned investigators and intelligence officers, sending them straight to the Central Region. Their mission was clear: reinforce ongoing police operations and bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding the student’s untimely passing. This specialized team, handpicked for their expertise, quickly integrated with the regional police command. Together, they intensified fact-finding efforts, combining local knowledge with advanced investigative techniques. The deployment signaled not just a tactical move, but a broader commitment by the Ghana Police Service to ensure a thorough and coordinated response. Throughout the process, the police assured the bereaved family, the university community, and the public that the investigation would be conducted with the utmost professionalism, transparency, and diligence. Their promise was simple yet powerful: to uncover the truth behind the incident and provide answers to all those affected. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Diaspora Community Commends Interior Minister, Seeks Improved Passport Services In Poland
Nigerians living in Poland and across Central and Eastern Europe have called for enhanced passport and consular services in the region, while commending the Federal Government of Nigeria for its continued engagement with citizens in the diaspora. The appeal was made during a special engagement with the Honourable Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who led a high-level Nigerian delegation to Poland for some bilateralassignments. Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian community, Chairman of APC Poland, Mr. Adekunle Ayoola, welcomed the Minister, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, heads of Nigeria’s paramilitary agencies, diplomatic officials, and distinguished guests to the gathering of Nigerians resident in Poland. Ayoola described the Nigerian diaspora as a vital bridge between Nigeria and the international community, noting that Nigerians across Europe continue to make significant contributions in sectors including education, healthcare, technology, business, research, sports, and public service. He emphasized that while diaspora Nigerians remain committed to promoting Nigeria’s image abroad and contributing to national development, access to efficient passport and documentation services remains a critical concern for many citizens living overseas. According to him, the growing population of Nigerians in Poland and neighboring countries has placed increasing pressure on existing consular and passport services in Warsaw, making it necessary for government to strengthen service delivery mechanisms. “We respectfully appeal for continued investment in modernizing passport services in Warsaw through increased processing capacity, expanded appointment availability, enhanced digital solutions, and the provision of additional resources where necessary,” Ayoola stated. He observed that many Nigerians travel considerable distances from various parts of Central and Eastern Europe to access passport and biometric enrollment services in Poland, adding that improvements would significantly reduce the burden on applicants while deepening the relationship between Nigeria and its citizens abroad. The APC Poland Chairman also acknowledged the efforts of Nigerian Embassy officials, particularly the Immigration Attaché and relevant government agencies, for their dedication in serving the diaspora community despite operational challenges and growing demand. He reiterated the readiness of the Nigerian diaspora community to partner with government initiatives aimed at strengthening engagement with Nigerians abroad, promoting national unity, and creating opportunities that benefit both the homeland and overseas citizens. As part of the event, the diaspora community presented an Award of Excellence and Appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Interior in recognition of his support and commitment to Nigerians abroad. Similar recognition was also extended to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service for her contributions toward improving service delivery. Ayoola disclosed that additional honours for other agency heads would be presented during a planned diaspora engagement visit to Nigeria in July as part of activities marking Diaspora Week, where stakeholders intend to further assess and celebrate outstanding institutional performance. The event concluded with renewed calls for stronger collaboration between government and the diaspora community, as participants expressed optimism that ongoing reforms within the Ministry of Interior and its agencies would further improve service delivery and strengthen ties between Nigeria and its citizens around the world. The gathering formed part of activities surrounding the Minister’s official visit to Poland and underscored the growing importance of diaspora engagement in Nigeria’s diplomatic, economic, and national development agenda. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Thomas Partey Denied Entry to Canada, Misses World Cup Opener
The flight from Boston to Toronto was supposed to carry Ghana’s hopes. Instead, Thomas Partey stayed grounded, not by injury, not by form, but by a single stamp that never came. Just days before the Black Stars’ opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a quiet but crushing blow landed on Ghana’s camp. The former Arsenal midfielder, now plying his trade with Villarreal in Spain, was denied entry into Canada. His visa application had been refused by Canadian authorities, and the news arrived like a cold wind on the eve of battle. According to BBC Sport, FIFA confirmed the development on Friday. Partey had been training with his teammates in Boston, the team’s designated base before crossing the border. But Canadian immigration officials had other plans. No visa. No entry. No Panama clash in Toronto. In a brief statement, FIFA distanced itself from the decision. “FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas,” the governing body said. “The host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.” For four-time African champions Ghana, the timing could not be worse. Partey, 32, remains one of the most influential players in Otto Addo’s squad. His experience, his composure in midfield, his ability to break lines, all of it will be missing when the Black Stars face Panama. The visa refusal, however, does not exist in a vacuum. Partey is scheduled to stand trial next year, having pleaded not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault involving four women between 2020 and 2022. Canadian authorities have not publicly explained their decision, but the shadow of those legal proceedings now falls across the World Cup stage. Partey joins an unhappy club of football figures caught in immigration tangles at this expanded 48-team tournament, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Somali referee Omar Artan, selected by FIFA to officiate, was previously denied entry into the United States,vanother reminder that even FIFA’s stamp carries no weight at a sovereign border. For coach Otto Addo, the tactical board must be redrawn. For Ghanaian fans, the hope that Partey would orchestrate their midfield has turned to hollow resignation. And as the Black Stars prepare to step onto the pitch in Toronto, one of their brightest lights will be watching from somewhere else, locked out, literally, from the game he was born to play. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Champions Inclusion and Leadership in Talks with FES Ghana
Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has underscored the government’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusion, leadership development, and social progress during a productive meeting with Mr. Martin Guettler, Resident Director of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Ghana (FES Ghana). The high-level discussion centered on deepening collaboration between the government and FES Ghana in the areas of women’s empowerment, youth development, and inclusive governance. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang commended FES Ghana for its consistent efforts to improve livelihoods and expand opportunities for marginalized communities across Ghana. Highlighting FES Ghana’s achievements in promoting women’s leadership, the Vice President encouraged the organization to further broaden its training and mentorship programmes, equipping more women with the skills and confidence to participate fully in governance and public service. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang pointed to the passage of Ghana’s Affirmative Action legislation as a significant step forward, but emphasized that the focus must now shift to effective implementation to ensure tangible outcomes. The meeting also stressed the importance of investing in Ghana’s youth through leadership initiatives, practical skills training, and confidence-building. The Vice President noted that the country’s large youth population represents both great potential and unique challenges, making it crucial to empower young people for national development. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration aimed at driving inclusion, nurturing leadership, and advancing social progress. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang concluded by reiterating the government’s openness to partnerships that further these priorities and support Ghana’s broader development goals. Source: Apexnewsgh.com