Energy Minister Pledges Action After Receiving Akosombo Substation Fire Report
Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has assured the public that the government will take decisive action following the submission of the final report on the recent fire at the Akosombo Substation. Addressing the media on Thursday, June 11, Dr. Jinapor confirmed that he had officially received the findings from the investigative committee tasked with looking into the cause and circumstances of the incident. He emphasized that the government would thoroughly review the committee’s conclusions and recommendations before determining the necessary steps to address the situation. “Accountability is a top priority,” Dr. Jinapor stated, assuring Ghanaians that any measures taken would be grounded in the evidence and recommendations provided by the committee. He explained that the investigation was launched to uncover the facts behind the fire and to lay the groundwork for preventing similar incidents in the future. The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting critical energy infrastructure and maintaining the reliability and stability of Ghana’s power transmission system. The Akosombo Substation fire had sparked concerns about the security of key installations, prompting the swift establishment of an investigative committee. The government is expected to announce its next steps once a comprehensive review of the report and its recommendations has been completed. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi Steps Down from Akonta Mining Case for Chairman Wontumi
Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi has announced his withdrawal as legal counsel for Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, in the ongoing criminal proceedings involving Akonta Mining Limited. In an interview with Citi News, Appiah-Kubi revealed that his decision to step down was prompted by concerns over how Criminal Court 4 has managed the case. He stated that he had officially filed a motion to withdraw, supported by an affidavit detailing his reasons for leaving the case. “My disappointment is in the attitude, record and the determination of the court so far in handling these matters before the court. I’m so totally disappointed, that’s why I am withdrawing,” Appiah-Kubi said, making clear that his withdrawal was motivated by dissatisfaction with the court’s conduct and approach. Addressing speculation, Appiah-Kubi dismissed any link between his withdrawal and ongoing plea bargaining negotiations involving Chairman Wontumi in the separate EXIM Bank fraud case. He emphasized that the Akonta Mining prosecution and the EXIM Bank matter are entirely distinct and unrelated. Appiah-Kubi further clarified that he remains a member of Chairman Wontumi’s legal team on all other issues, including the EXIM Bank case, and that his withdrawal applies exclusively to the Akonta Mining proceedings. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority Demands Probe Into Ministers of State Excellence Honours Over Bribery Allegations
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has called for the formation of an investigative committee to scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the recently held Ghana Ministers of State Excellence Honours, amid mounting concerns about the credibility of the awards scheme. The call was made on Thursday, June 11, by Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Habib Iddrisu, who argued on the floor of Parliament that a transparent and impartial inquiry is needed to clarify the selection processes, standards, and criteria for honourees. This demand comes after the Director-General of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), Professor Michael Kpessa-Whyte, alleged that he was asked to pay GH¢50,000 in exchange for receiving an award. The allegation has sparked widespread public debate and intensified calls for greater transparency and accountability in the administration of the honours. Iddrisu asserted that explanations provided so far have not addressed the core issues and stressed that Parliament has a duty to establish the facts behind the controversy. “Listening to the issue and the response given by the Minister for Government Communication, Mr. Speaker, if you can kindly direct to set up a committee to investigate the matter. A bipartisan committee should investigate this matter so that we know the criteria for the awards. We deserve the truth,” he said. The Minority’s call for a bipartisan probe reflects growing concerns in and outside Parliament over the integrity of the awards programme and aims to restore public confidence through a thorough investigation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Begins Repatriation of Citizens Stranded in Côte d’Ivoire After Demolition Exercise
The Government of Ghana has initiated the repatriation of 327 nationals left stranded in Côte d’Ivoire following a demolition exercise in the Port Bouët Municipality of Abidjan. The operation, which destroyed homes and livelihoods, compelled Ghanaian authorities to act swiftly in support of their displaced citizens. In a press release dated Thursday, June 12, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that 228 affected Ghanaians had already been safely returned to Ghana as of June 11, with arrangements finalized for the remaining 99 to arrive on June 12. The government’s intervention is aimed at providing immediate relief and facilitating the reintegration of those impacted by the demolition. The Ministry explained that all 327 Ghanaians had been living in the demolished communities and, after losing their homes and sources of income, found themselves without the means to secure alternative accommodation in Côte d’Ivoire. Looking beyond repatriation, Ghana is also advocating for compensation for the victims. According to the Ministry, Ivorian authorities have expressed a willingness to compensate those affected, and Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Abidjan is actively engaged to ensure the promised support is delivered. The Foreign Affairs Ministry assured that it will continue to work closely with its counterparts in Côte d’Ivoire to coordinate the compensation process and address any ongoing concerns about the welfare of the repatriated citizens. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah Proposes Five-Point Plan to Tackle Ghana’s Youth Unemployment Crisis
The Ranking Member on Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee and Member of Parliament for Ofoase-Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has sounded the alarm over Ghana’s escalating youth unemployment crisis and put forward a comprehensive five-point strategy to address the problem. Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, June 11, 2026, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah described youth unemployment as one of Ghana’s most urgent socio-economic challenges, cautioning that existing interventions are falling short of expectations. Quoting recent data from the Ghana Statistical Service, he noted that the unemployment rate among persons aged 15 to 24 rose from 32% in December 2024 to 32.5% by the third quarter of 2025, and that nearly two million young Ghanaians are neither in education, employment, nor training. “Mr. Speaker, we do not need more slogans or promises that results are in the pipeline. We need a more effective architecture to solve the worsening youth unemployment problem in our country. The time to act is now,” he declared. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the MP for Ofoase-Ayirebi stressed the need for bold and measurable reforms, arguing that Ghanaian youth demand practical, dignified, and well-paid job opportunities—not rhetoric. Oppong Nkrumah’s five-point proposal includes: Publishing delivery scorecards for all job creation programmes, using clear metrics such as beneficiaries, cost per job, time-to-placement, and employment retention rates; Distinguishing between skills training initiatives and actual job creation efforts, noting that training alone does not guarantee employment; Shifting from government-led financing to increased private sector participation, with government reducing investment risks, co-investing in strategic sectors, and creating a supportive regulatory environment; Making apprenticeship programmes the backbone of the youth employment strategy, anchored by national certification, employer incentives, and structured pathways to jobs or entrepreneurship; Establishing a credible Labour Market Information System to provide real-time data on vacancies, skills gaps, and labour demand. He concluded by urging policymakers to move beyond slogans and promises, and instead adopt practical, accountable solutions to reverse the trend and unlock opportunities for Ghana’s burgeoning youth population. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
DRIP National Coordinator Vanderpuye Signals Bid for NDC National Chairmanship
Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), has announced his readiness to step down from his current role to contest for the National Chairmanship of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), should incumbent chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia choose not to seek re-election. In an interview the media, June 11, 2026, Vanderpuye made clear his respect for Asiedu Nketia, describing him as a “senior brother” and stating he would not run against him. “We started together in Sunyani; he’s one of the people that I respect so much, and so I wouldn’t want to contest him if he decides to contest. But if he’s not contesting, I’m ready to offer myself,” Vanderpuye stated. Highlighting his extensive history with the NDC, Vanderpuye traced his political journey from youth organiser and foundation member of the party to serving as a ward secretary during the party’s formation in 1992, even while working at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation. “I was the youth organiser of the Democratic Youth League of Ghana, the Future Leaders Organisation. I’ve always been part of this. I’m also a foundation member of the party,” he recounted. Vanderpuye also pointed to his experience as a parliamentary aspirant, deputy minister, cabinet minister, and campaign official in past NDC administrations. “I was a parliamentary aspirant as far back as 1996. Former deputy minister for trade, former deputy local government minister, former minister for youth and sports, director of operations for President Mills’ campaign, and officer at the presidency in those days.” When asked if he would resign from his current post as DRIP National Coordinator to enter the chairmanship race, Vanderpuye confirmed his intent to step down, stating, “Yes, because I think this party has given me so much. I want to give back to the party.” Vanderpuye’s declaration sets the stage for a potential leadership contest within the NDC, pending the decision of the current national chairman. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chairman Wontumi Seeks Plea Bargain in EXIM Bank Fraud Case, Accra High Court Told
The Accra High Court has been formally informed that Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), is seeking a plea bargain in a high-profile criminal case involving alleged multi-million cedi fraud against the Ghana Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank). The update came to light on June 11, 2026, when the Office of the Attorney-General notified the court that Wontumi, the first accused, had initiated steps toward a plea negotiation process. His lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, made the request in a letter dated June 5, 2026, which was communicated to the Attorney-General in accordance with Section 162C(3) of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30). The case lists Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, his brother Thomas Antwi-Boasiako, currently at large, and Wontumi Farms Limited as accused parties. Prosecutors allege that between 2018 and 2022, the duo fraudulently obtained GH¢14,302,000 from EXIM Bank using false pretences and the business entity as a front. The charge sheet further accuses Chairman Wontumi of presenting a forged receipt to secure an additional GH¢4 million facility and knowingly benefiting from the alleged fraudulent funds, which forms the basis of a money laundering charge. According to the prosecution, the transactions in question resulted in a financial loss exceeding GH¢30 million to EXIM Bank. The notification of the plea bargain, signed by Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, was submitted to the court registry for the presiding judge’s attention. As the case progresses, the court is expected to consider the plea bargain notification and oversee further negotiations between the parties under the applicable legal framework. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chief Imam Raises Alarm Over Youth Drug Abuse in Ghana
The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, has voiced deep worry about the escalating problem of drug abuse among young people in Ghana, warning that the trend poses a grave threat to the nation’s future. Sheikh Sharubutu raised these concerns during a courtesy call by the Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, and members of the commission’s management team. The visit, which took place ahead of this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, formed part of NACOC’s preparations for World Drug Day, slated for June 26, 2026, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra. The Chief Imam lamented that the indiscriminate use of illicit substances is destroying the potential of many young Ghanaians and called for urgent, collective action from all stakeholders. He commended NACOC for its sustained efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, describing the commission’s work as critical to safeguarding the well-being of young people and society as a whole. For his part, Brigadier General Obuba Mantey thanked the Chief Imam for receiving the delegation and emphasized the pressing need for a united front to tackle the growing menace of drug abuse. He noted that the problem continues to shatter lives and undermine the future of the nation’s youth, stressing that NACOC cannot win the fight alone. The NACOC delegation included the Deputy Director-General in charge of Enforcement, Control and Elimination, Lawyer Alexander Twum-Barimah, along with other senior members of the management team. The visit also served to officially invite the Chief Imam to participate in the upcoming national event dedicated to intensifying advocacy against drug abuse. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Citizens Petition President Over Ashanti Regional Minister’s Alleged Misogynistic Remarks
A new controversy has erupted in Ghanaian politics as two citizens, Barbara Twum and Jennifer Owusu, have formally petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to take disciplinary action against the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, over allegations of making sexually offensive and misogynistic remarks towards a former government official. In a petition dated June 9, 2026, and submitted to the Executive Secretary at Jubilee House, the petitioners allege that Dr. Amoakohene posted a sexually explicit and gender-demeaning comment on Facebook directed at Akosua Manu, popularly known as Kozie, the former Deputy Chief Executive of the National Youth Authority. The petition quotes the offending post as: “Akosua Kumaa, wokon do anaa? You want to have a taste of it?” Twum and Owusu describe the comment as “sexually explicit, vulgar, and gender-demeaning,” arguing that it constitutes sexual harassment and a grave breach of ministerial standards. They further contend that such language is incompatible with the dignity required of public officials and creates an environment of fear and degradation for women. The petitioners invoke Section 6 of the Presidential Code of Conduct and Ethics (2025), calling on the President to investigate the incident and consider sanctions, including a formal written reprimand or outright dismissal of Dr. Amoakohene. They argue that the minister’s conduct violates not only ethical codes, such as requirements for civility, dignity, and professionalism, but also constitutional guarantees of gender equality and the state’s obligation to promote women’s participation in national development. “The sexual degradation and public humiliation of a woman by a Minister of State… is fundamentally incompatible with this constitutional guarantee,” the petition asserts. As the petition lands on the President’s desk, calls are growing for accountability and a renewed commitment to upholding standards of respect and equality in public office. The outcome of this petition could have significant implications for government ethics and the fight against sexual harassment in Ghana’s public sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Create convenience for customers and they will cover cost – Young Agripreneurs in Bolgatanga urged
Beneficiaries of the Youth in Agriculture and Employability Programme (YAEP) have received intensive training in agribusiness management strategies aimed at strengthening their knowledge and participation across the agricultural value chain. The training, held in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region, forms part of efforts to equip young people with practical skills and entrepreneurial competencies needed to succeed in modern agriculture and agribusiness. The participants were taken through various opportunities available to value chain actors and value chain enablers within the agribusiness sector. The sessions focused on helping young people identify profitable opportunities in production, processing, aggregation, marketing, and service provision within the agricultural ecosystem. The programme seeks to transform youth from job seekers into job creators by positioning them to take advantage of emerging opportunities in agriculture. Facilitating the training, the Executive Director of GrowAfrica For Me (GAFM), Mr. Albert Shiebila Mali, urged participants to take advantage of interventions and support systems being provided by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) and other agriculture-focused institutions. According to him, numerous government and development partner programmes exist to support young agripreneurs, but many young people fail to access these opportunities due to lack of information and preparedness. Mr. Mali advised participants interested in primary agricultural production to conduct thorough market assessments before investing in any commodity. He emphasized that successful agribusiness begins with understanding market demand, warning that production without a ready market often results in post-harvest losses and low returns on investment. He encouraged the youth to adopt a market-oriented approach that prioritizes consumer needs and profitability. For participants interested in agribusiness trading and agro-processing, Mr. Mali stressed the importance of creating convenience and value for customers. He explained that consumers are often willing to pay more for products that save them time, improve quality, or provide easier access. He therefore encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on innovation, quality packaging, and customer satisfaction as key drivers of business success. Addressing participants interested in aggregation, Mr. Mali highlighted the importance of quality control in agricultural commodities. He recommended that aggregators build strong relationships with smallholder farmers and invest in their capacity development. According to him, training farmers on good agronomic practices will help ensure consistency, quality, and reliability in the supply of agricultural products, thereby improving competitiveness and profitability. The training also emphasized the importance of organizing smallholder farmers into groups, cooperatives, and associations, particularly women-led groups. Participants were encouraged to facilitate the formation of Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) to improve access to financial services and strengthen the economic resilience of farming communities. Such structures, facilitators noted, can serve as effective platforms for knowledge sharing, collective marketing, and access to credit. The Youth in Agriculture and Employability Programme is a transformative initiative developed by GrowAfrica For Me to empower young people between the ages of 18 and 35 in Bolgatanga and surrounding communities. Through a one-month intensive training programme, participants receive practical exposure to modern agricultural practices as well as essential business development skills that prepare them for sustainable careers in agribusiness. The programme was designed in response to growing concerns about youth unemployment in Ghana. Statistics indicate that more than 1.9 million young people are classified as Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), highlighting the urgent need for interventions that can create sustainable livelihoods. While agriculture remains a key pillar of Ghana’s economy, many young people have traditionally viewed the sector as unattractive due to limited opportunities, inadequate support systems, and negative perceptions. Organizers noted that barriers such as limited access to practical skills, lack of entrepreneurial knowledge, poor market access, insufficient financing, and inadequate mentorship have prevented many young people from pursuing careers in agriculture. These challenges have contributed to rising unemployment, increased rural-urban migration, and underutilization of the country’s agricultural potential. YAEP seeks to reverse this trend by positioning agriculture as a viable and profitable career pathway. The programme’s training component covers a broad range of agribusiness topics designed to provide participants with a strong foundation for success. Areas covered include Foundations of Agribusiness, Agribusiness Model Canvas, Marketing Management, Production and Operations Management, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, and Risk Management in Agribusiness. These modules provide participants with practical tools to establish and manage successful enterprises. Beyond classroom training, the programme incorporates coaching and mentorship, enterprise matching, and start-up support. Through these components, participants are connected to experienced industry professionals, potential business opportunities, and networks that can help them launch and sustain agribusiness ventures. The holistic design ensures that participants receive continuous support even after completing the training phase. The overall objective of YAEP is to empower youth with practical agricultural and entrepreneurial skills that enhance employability and promote self-employment. Specific goals include building capacity in modern agricultural practices, developing entrepreneurial competencies, promoting agriculture as a profitable career option, and supporting participants to create sustainable agribusiness models capable of generating long-term income. Participants are expected to benefit from enhanced technical knowledge, increased confidence, business development support, and access to mentorship and industry insights. Communities, on the other hand, stand to gain from increased youth participation in agriculture, improved food production and security, job creation, and stronger local economies driven by agribusiness activities. In the medium and long term, the programme aims to contribute to sustainable youth employment, growth of local agribusiness ecosystems, and reduction in rural-urban migration. Source: Apexnewsgh/Prosper Adankai/Contributor