Minority Demands Full Documentary Evidence on South Africa Evacuation Expenditure
The Minority in Parliament has intensified its demand for the government to provide comprehensive documentation detailing the costs incurred during the voluntary evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa amid recent xenophobic attacks. The renewed call comes after a September 7 briefing by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who revealed that the government spent GH¢49.7 million to evacuate 1,964 Ghanaians from South Africa. While the Minority welcomed the disclosure, they insist that the minister’s statement must be substantiated with verifiable records that would allow Parliament and the public to independently confirm the expenditure. Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Nana Asafo Adjei Ayeh, had previously filed a Right to Information (RTI) request seeking details of the evacuation, including full expense records and information on the individuals and organisations that contributed to the exercise. Addressing the press on Thursday, September 10, Asafo Adjei Ayeh clarified that the Minority is not seeking any private information about evacuees but is calling for documents necessary to verify the government’s financial account. “Nobody is asking government to publish passport, medical diagnosis, bank account numbers or other unnecessary private information. We are asking for enough documentary information to verify the public account,” he explained. The Minority supports the government’s decision to assist citizens wishing to return home and acknowledged the Foreign Affairs Minister’s disclosure as a positive step. However, they argue that public figures announced at a press conference are not sufficient for proper verification. According to Asafo Adjei Ayeh, the government’s claims that the operation is complete, all liabilities settled, 1,964 people evacuated, and GH¢49,721,786 spent must be supported by relevant financial and operational records. “If the books are closed, then let’s open the books. Let the travel ledger reconcile with the payment ledger. Let the first phase manifest reconcile with the final first phase number. Let every commercial batch reconcile with the ticket and invoice,” he urged. He added, “We do not need accusations where documents can provide answers. We do not need speculation where accounts can be established.” The Minority is therefore calling on the government to make a full documentary account of the evacuation operation available, arguing that such transparency would boost public confidence and demonstrate responsible use of public funds. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Flags Low Compliance with Governance Standards Among Public Entities
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed serious concerns about the low level of compliance with key governance and accountability requirements among public entities in Ghana. Speaking at the SIGA Governing Boards and CEOs Conference 2026 on Thursday, September 10, the President revealed that only 72 out of the 148 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) expected to sign performance contracts had done so since his administration took office. While acknowledging improvements in the governance and management of public institutions, President Mahama warned that these positive changes should not be mistaken for the resolution of all governance issues. He pointed out that several entities were still falling short on crucial statutory and administrative obligations, particularly in the submission of audited financial statements, performance contracts, quarterly reports, annual general meetings, and employment data. “We must not confuse improvement with complete success. Only 61 entities submitted their audited financial statements by the statutory deadline of April 30. A significant number of entities either submitted after the deadline or still relied on management and draft accounts,” President Mahama noted. He further highlighted that, in addition to the low number of signed performance contracts, only 71 entities had submitted their quarterly reports, and just 37 out of 177 had held their required annual general or stakeholder meetings. Employment data submissions also declined, dropping from 142 entities in 2024 to 137 in 2025. “These compliance gaps are unacceptable,” President Mahama stressed, urging all public entities to meet their governance and reporting obligations to improve transparency and accountability in the management of state resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Three Companies Advance to Next Stage in Ghana’s 5G Spectrum Race
Ghana’s journey toward 5G connectivity took a major step forward as the National Communications Authority (NCA) announced that three companies have advanced to the next phase of the country’s 5G spectrum licensing process. The companies approved to proceed are Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana), and Goal Telecommunications Ltd. The NCA disclosed that it had received four applications for the highly anticipated 5G spectrum licences, covering the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 3 GHz frequency bands. The submission deadline was 5 PM on August 27, 2026. Of the four contenders, Infrava Ltd was the only applicant not to make the cut. The selection process involved a rigorous Eligibility Review and Technical Qualification Assessment, where applicants were evaluated based on technical and qualification submissions contained in what the NCA described as Envelope A. In a statement released on Wednesday, September 9, the NCA confirmed, “Of the four applications received by the submission deadline of 5 PM on August 27, 2026, three applicants have qualified to proceed to the next stage of the selection process.” All applicants have been notified of the results, and reasons for disqualification were provided where relevant. The three successful companies will now move on to Stage 3 of the selection process, which will determine their final ranking and allocation of spectrum. The NCA clarified that “only the Qualified Applicants will proceed to Stage 3 of the selection process. Accordingly, the Envelope B submitted by the Non-qualified Applicant will not be opened.” As the process moves forward, the NCA will separately inform the qualified companies about the date, time, and venue for the opening and ranking of their Best Price Offers. The competition for Ghana’s 5G future is heating up, with only the strongest contenders left in the race. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Demands Answers: 30-Day Ultimatum for Rural Telephony Report
In a move that has stirred Ghana’s tech and political circles, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has issued a 30-day ultimatum to the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations. The party wants the Ministry to publish a comprehensive status report on the Ghana Rural Telephony and Digital Inclusion Project, a flagship initiative meant to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. The demand, spearheaded by the NPP’s Policy Committee on Communications and Digitalization, was made public following a high-level briefing by Communication Minister Samuel Nartey George. The Minister had outlined the government’s plan to upgrade rural telephony sites to at least 4G, but the NPP insists that more transparency is needed on the current state of the project. According to a statement signed by Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Chairman of the NPP Policy Co-ordination Committee, the party is seeking detailed data: How many sites have been constructed, connected, and are fully operational? How many have been built but remain out of service? The NPP argues that these answers are critical to understanding the real progress made. Rejecting claims that rural connectivity had been neglected in the previous decade, the NPP stated that, contrary to the Minister’s characterization, “the records show significant investments were made under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration.” The Ghana Rural Telephony and Digital Inclusion Project, they pointed out, was launched in 2020 with a €155 million facility from the China EXIM Bank, aiming to build 2,016 sites and connect 3-4 million people. By the end of the last NPP administration in January 2025, the party claims, 1,961 sites had been constructed, with equipment procured for 400 more. But since the change in government, the NPP alleges, progress has stalled. “No new rural telephony site was constructed in 2025 despite the availability of equipment,” the statement read. Even more troubling, the NPP says that many previously operational sites are now offline. The party also pushed back against suggestions that 46 sites could not be connected because they are in hard-to-reach areas. “A satellite hub at the Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT had already been upgraded to provide backhaul services,” the NPP said. They argue that the issue is not technical, but a matter of administrative delays and commercial arrangements that have yet to be finalized. While the NPP welcomed government plans to upgrade rural infrastructure to 4G, they cautioned against leaving existing sites disconnected or allowing service to lapse. Their demands are clear: The Ministry and the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) must publish a deployment schedule for the remaining sites, report on the operational status of the satellite hub, and share a detailed plan, including costs and timelines, for the 4G upgrade. The party also wants Parliament’s Select Committee on Communications to be briefed with verifiable data, not just public statements or claims. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Robert Sampana Elected Upper East Regional President Of Association Of The Deaf
The Upper East Regional Association of the Deaf (UERAD), a regional branch of the Ghana National Association of the Deaf, has ushered in a new chapter of inclusive leadership following the election of Robert Sampana as its new Regional President. Sampana, a native of Talen Teng from Datoko, brings strong community ties and a firm commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of Deaf people in the Upper East Region. His election is expected to strengthen advocacy for greater inclusion and accessibility, particularly through the mainstreaming of Ghanaian Sign Language (GSL) interpretation at public programmes and engagements. A key priority of his administration will be to address communication barriers that often prevent Deaf persons from accessing vital information and participating fully in public life. Sampana also intends to build stronger partnerships with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), and healthcare institutions to promote the inclusion of Deaf people in development programmes and improve their access to essential healthcare services. Through these collaborations, his administration seeks to ensure that Deaf persons are not only represented but are also adequately informed, consulted and given equal opportunities to benefit from public services. The new leadership is therefore expected to position UERAD as a stronger voice for the Deaf community while championing a more inclusive and accessible Upper East Region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Sam George: Galamsey Accounts for 25% of Fibre Network Disruptions in Ghana
Illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, is fast becoming the unseen saboteur of Ghana’s digital lifelines. At a recent Government Accountability Series event, Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Minister Samuel Nartey George revealed a troubling statistic: about one in every four fibre-optic cable cuts recorded nationwide can be traced back to the activities of galamsey operators. Beneath Ghana’s bustling towns and quiet villages, a complex web of fibre-optic cables keeps people connected, to each other and to the world. But this vital infrastructure faces a growing threat from those digging for gold. “Twenty-five percent of fibre cuts are a result of galamsey,” Minister George stated. “The telecom industry is one of the worst hit by the activities of galamsey operators.” Unlike road construction crews, who typically alert authorities when their work could disrupt underground cables, illegal miners rarely provide any warning. As they excavate in search of precious minerals, they often damage fibre lines, leaving telecommunications companies scrambling to trace and repair the breaks, often without any idea where to begin. The result is widespread disruption, especially in areas where there are no alternative fibre routes. Voice and data traffic can grind to a halt, leaving entire communities isolated from modern communication. The repercussions ripple far beyond mere inconvenience. Each fibre cut forces telecom companies to deploy teams and equipment at significant cost, straining their resources and threatening the reliability of Ghana’s digital services. Minister George warned that if this trend continues, the backbone of the nation’s telecommunications could be fatally undermined, deepening network disruptions and jeopardizing the country’s digital future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Gbane Opinion Leader Raises Security Concerns Over Mining Suspension
An opinion leader in the Gbane community in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region, Alhaji Fahad Bagremertamme, has expressed concern over the potential security implications following the order by the Inspector of mines ordering Nanlamtaaba Enterprise and Earl International Mining Company to suspend its mining operations. According to Alhaji Fahad, the people of Gbane respect the rule of law and have no objection to the court’s decision if it is implemented according to due process. He, however, questioned the activities of individuals he identified as “Poloo and his associates,” arguing that their actions were creating tension within the community. “We respect the rule of law, and if the judge has said the company should come and work, we have no problem with that because we respect the jurisprudence,” he said. He added that the court’s directive by the Inspector of mines for the company to stop working for two weeks could have serious consequences for the community, particularly given the high level of unemployment and insecurity in the area. Alhaji Fahad said a significant proportion of residents depend directly or indirectly on mining-related activities for their livelihoods, and expressed concern that a sudden suspension of operations could leave many young people without work. “Almost 45 or 50 percent of the people here are working in the mining sector. So, if these guys are asked to stay at home for two weeks, it could bring a lot of disturbance,” he stated. He further raised concerns about the security situation in Gbane, noting that the community has experienced incidents of armed robbery and other security challenges. According to him, there are also concerns surrounding individuals allegedly providing protection for persons involved in the mining dispute. He alleged that some individuals had previously been arrested by the military with AK-47 rifles and sent to court, but said the community was uncertain about the outcome of the case. “These are the same people back there protecting Poloo. So, I don’t know,” he said. The situation, he explained, had heightened fear among residents, particularly those working around mining sites. He recounted concerns about armed individuals allegedly approaching people at mining locations and ordering them to leave, questioning the circumstances under which such actions were taking place. Alhaji Fahad therefore appealed to the government and relevant security authorities to intervene urgently to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the dispute. He warned that if the situation was not addressed, community members could be forced to consider protecting themselves, a development he said could further escalate tensions. He nevertheless stressed that the community’s leadership had been urging the youth to remain calm and avoid retaliation. “We have advised all our youth to calm down and not retaliate. If not for that, by now things could have been worse,” he said. The opinion leader maintained that preserving peace remained the priority, urging the government and security agencies to act swiftly to prevent the mining dispute from developing into a wider security crisis in Gbane. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minister Samuel Nartey George to Feature in Government’s Accountability Series on September 7, 2026
The stage is set for another edition of the government’s Accountability Series, with the spotlight this time on Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations. On Monday, September 7, 2026, at precisely 11 AM, Mr. George will engage the nation as part of the Presidency Communications team’s ongoing initiative to foster transparency and public dialogue. The Accountability Series, organized by the team at the Presidency, has become a cornerstone of the government’s efforts to keep citizens informed and involved. Through these sessions, ministers and high-level officials provide direct updates on policies, programmes, and achievements in their respective sectors. As anticipation builds, Mr. George is expected to address key issues and recent developments within the communications, digital technology, and innovation landscape. The session aims to shed light on the government’s progress, challenges, and future plans in these fast-evolving sectors. The Presidency Communications team emphasized the importance of the series as a vital platform, enabling government members to connect with the public, share information, and answer questions about their stewardship. Monday’s session promises to be an important opportunity for Ghanaians to gain insight into the work being undertaken to keep the nation at the forefront of digital innovation. All eyes will be on the Minister as he takes to the stage at 11 AM, continuing the tradition of open government and accountability that has become a hallmark of the current administration. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Concludes Evacuation of 1,900 Citizens from South Africa Amid Xenophobic Attacks
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stood at the airport, his face a portrait of relief and resolve, as he greeted the last group of weary, homebound Ghanaians. The day marked the conclusion of a massive national effort: the evacuation of approximately 1,900 Ghanaian citizens from South Africa, following a recent surge in xenophobic violence there. In a heartfelt Facebook post, accompanied by photos capturing the emotional reunions, Minister Ablakwa recounted the journey. “Today I warmly welcomed the final group of Ghanaians successfully evacuated from South Africa following the recent wave of xenophobic attacks,” he wrote, his words echoing the collective sigh of a nation relieved to see its people safe. The evacuation unfolded in two phases, with the second phase alone seeing 1,000 Ghanaians return. Each evacuee received support not just for their journey home, but for their new start: reintegration financial aid, transportation allowances, medical care, psychosocial support, free health insurance registration, and ongoing employment assistance. Minister Ablakwa was quick to emphasize that this was more than a government operation—it was a demonstration of national unity and compassion. “We achieved this together as Ghanaians. Our message is clear: we value the lives of Ghanaians everywhere in the world, and no Ghanaian will be abandoned in harm’s way,” he declared. He expressed deep gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for his inspirational leadership and extended thanks to all local partners whose efforts made the mission possible. Yet, amidst the relief, the Foreign Affairs Minister did not forget those lost: he acknowledged the four Ghanaians who tragically died during the period of unrest, offering prayers and heartfelt condolences to their grieving families. Looking ahead, Minister Ablakwa assured the public that the Foreign Ministry would provide a full and transparent account of the evacuation process. “Next week the Foreign Ministry shall present a comprehensive report and account fully and transparently to the great people of Ghana,” he promised. As the final plane touched down and families embraced, the story of Ghana’s response stood as a testament to unity and the unwavering commitment to protect its citizens, no matter how far from home they may be. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Gbane Youth Petition Mahama Over Mining Dispute, Insecurity and Alleged Assaults
The Alliance for Gban Development, a registered youth organisation, has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama over growing tensions, insecurity and a protracted mining dispute involving Nanlamtaaba Enterprise and Earl International Group Ghana Gold Limited at Gbane in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region. This was revealed on Saturday during press conference organized by a Gban group known as Alliance for Gban Development. The group Secretary Mr. John Kpal who read out the statement, says it represents the concerns of the youth, traditional leaders and residents of Gbane. He raised concerns about what it described as a growing culture of impunity and disregard for regulatory directives amid heightened tensions in the community. At a press briefing, the group also the reveal the situation had become particularly tense over the past eight weeks following the enforcement of a High Court order directing the Ghana Police Service to provide protection for Nanlamtaaba Enterprise to undertake mining activities in the area. The Alliance stressed that while it respected the authority of the courts, it believed the enforcement of judicial decisions must also take into account community safety, peace and stability. According to the group, a Minerals Commission investigative survey conducted in the Gbane area in 2015 established that gold deposits in the area were deep-seated and recommended that the area be reserved for large-scale mining operations. The group said the government subsequently approved the recommendation and blocked out the Gbane area for large-scale mining. Following the acquisition of its mining lease, Earl International reportedly engaged affected small-scale concession holders, with the process facilitated by the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Upper East Regional Security Council. The Alliance said that in July 2021, Earl International entered into an agreement with affected small-scale concession owners, including Nanlamtaaba, under which the concessionaires were to receive two per cent of Earl’s gross production twice annually. It further alleged that goodwill payments were also made to affected concession owners. The youth group claimed that Nanlamtaaba’s Managing Director had acknowledged receiving substantial payments from Earl International, although he subsequently indicated that he believed the payments were intended for transportation and related expenses. The group said a High Court in Bolgatanga subsequently issued an interim ruling allowing Nanlamtaaba to undertake mining activities in Gbane, with the Ghana Police Service ordered to provide security. While reiterating its respect for the judiciary, the Alliance questioned the basis for allowing Nanlamtaaba to operate, claiming that records from the Minerals Commission indicate that the company’s 25-acre mining licence expired on May 14, 2025. It further argued that possessing a mining licence alone was insufficient, as mining operators are also required to obtain the necessary operating and environmental permits. The group therefore questioned why Nanlamtaaba was allegedly allowed to continue mining despite what it described as regulatory concerns. A major concern raised at the press briefing was the security arrangements surrounding the enforcement of the court order. The Alliance questioned whether the police were still providing the protection directed by the court, claiming that armed individuals who were neither police officers nor personnel of a registered security company had instead been seen providing security for Nanlamtaaba’s operations. The group alleged that some of these individuals had been involved in confrontations with residents. According to the Alliance, armed personnel carrying pump-action firearms recently entered underground workings belonging to Earl International. During the incident, it said, one of Nanlamtaaba’s armed guards accidentally shot himself in the foot and had to be carried out of the mine by Earl International security personnel. The group said it had photographs and video footage relating to the incident. The Alliance also alleged that three young men from Gbane were recently assaulted by armed security guards allegedly associated with Nanlamtaaba after they were found sitting under a tree near an area claimed by the mining company. According to the group, the incident nearly escalated into a major confrontation before the intervention of military personnel and community elders. The youth organisation said such incidents were creating fear among residents and could potentially trigger wider conflict if not addressed urgently. The group also raised concerns over directives issued by the Chief Inspector of Mines ordering the cessation of mining operations by both Earl International and Nanlamtaaba. It said Nanlamtaaba allegedly continued its activities despite an earlier directive. The Alliance further referred to a September 2, 2026 directive ordering a two-week cessation of operations. While acknowledging the regulator’s authority to suspend mining activities where necessary, the group questioned why the latest directive allegedly affected areas far beyond the disputed concession. It expressed concern about the impact of the shutdown on the estimated 2,000 workers associated with Earl International and their families. The youth group argued that if the dispute concerns a specific area, regulatory restrictions should be limited to that area rather than affecting an entire mining operation. The Alliance said it was not asking President Mahama to overturn the High Court’s decision, stressing that such a decision falls within the jurisdiction of the judiciary. Instead, it called on the government to ensure that the court’s order for state security was properly implemented. Among its demands, the group called for: The provision of professional, uniformed security personnel to enforce the court order where necessary. The removal of what it described as untrained armed guards from the area. Enforcement of directives issued by the Minerals Commission and the Chief Inspector of Mines. Investigations into the alleged assault of the three Gbane youths. Investigations into alleged seizure of property and the reported underground shooting incident. Prosecution of persons found culpable of criminal offences. An explanation from the Ghana Police Service regarding its alleged acceptance of a motorbike reportedly seized by private actors. Immediate measures to prevent the mining dispute from escalating into an inter-community conflict. “We Are Restraining Our Youth” The Alliance warned that the continued tensions could have serious consequences if the state failed to intervene. It said community elders and residents had so far exercised restraint and worked to prevent