U.S. Embassy in Accra Opens Over 1,000 Visa Appointment Slots
A wave of excitement swept through Ghana’s travel community on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as the U.S. Embassy in Accra made a major announcement: more than 1,000 non-immigrant visa appointment slots were now available for booking, offering prospective travellers the rare chance to secure interview dates within the next week. In a notice shared on Facebook, the embassy revealed that a significant number of B1/B2 visa appointments, designed for business and tourism, were open. Officials encouraged applicants to move quickly and take advantage of the newly available slots. The move, embassy representatives explained, was part of broader preparations by the United States to facilitate increased travel ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host alongside Mexico and Canada. “There are more than 1,000 B1/B2 visa appointment slots available in the next week – one of those could be yours,” the embassy’s notice read. Those who already had appointments scheduled for later in the year were advised to reschedule for an earlier date if it suited their plans. “Book a new appointment – or move up one scheduled for later in the year – we want to interview you now!” the statement urged. Prospective applicants were directed to the Embassy’s official visa page for comprehensive details on application requirements and the booking process. This swift move by the U.S. Embassy is expected to ease frustrations among would-be travellers who, in recent months, have endured long waits for interview appointments. For many, the sudden availability of slots represents a welcome opportunity to pursue business, tourism, and World Cup dreams in the United States. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
COCOBOD Leaders Slash Salaries Amid Cocoa Sector Liquidity Crunch
On Monday, February 16, 2026, a decisive announcement echoed through the corridors of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) headquarters. In a bold response to persistent liquidity challenges in the cocoa sector, the executive management and senior staff declared immediate salary cuts that would span the remainder of the 2025/26 crop year. According to a formal statement signed by Dr Randy Abbey, Chief Executive of COCOBOD, executive management would take a 20% reduction in their pay, while senior staff would see their salaries trimmed by 10%. The move, Dr. Abbey explained, was part of a comprehensive set of cost-saving measures designed to steer the organisation through current financial headwinds. These salary cuts are just one aspect of a wider strategy. COCOBOD is also tightening its belt in procurement and initiating a staff rationalisation exercise—each step aimed at slashing overall expenditure and ensuring that costs are better aligned with fluctuating revenues. Behind these tough choices lies a singular goal: safeguarding the sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry. COCOBOD’s leadership underscored the importance of maintaining operational efficiency and protecting the livelihoods of cocoa farmers, even as economic pressures mount. As the new measures take effect, the message from the top is clear—shared sacrifice and prudent management are essential for navigating the sector’s challenges and securing a stable future for Ghana’s cocoa industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Minister’s Call: Fugu and Kente as Symbols of Unity
On Wednesday morning, the vibrant energy at the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry was unmistakable. Journalists gathered in anticipation as Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, stepped forward with a message that resonated far beyond the walls of the conference room. Her voice carried conviction as she addressed the crowd, urging all Ghanaians to embrace fugu and kente, not as mere ethnic symbols, but as cherished national treasures. Both textiles, she reminded everyone, have been recognised by UNESCO as elements of cultural heritage, a source of pride not just for specific regions, but for the entire nation. The minister’s passionate appeal came at a pivotal moment. The government was ramping up efforts to popularise the wearing of fugu on Wednesdays, a campaign designed to boost local textile patronage and invigorate the domestic industry. The initiative had already begun to capture public imagination, especially after President John Dramani Mahama’s recent appearance in a fugu during his state visit to Zambia. Speaking on the sidelines of a meeting between the Smock Weavers’ Association and ministry officials, Ms. Gomashie explained the significance of “Fugu Wednesday.” She noted with satisfaction how Members of Parliament and other prominent figures had joined the movement, turning the traditional garment into a symbol of national pride. But her message was about more than clothing. “It is not about tribe. It is not about a language. It is about Ghana,” she declared. “For this fugu and kente that have been listed on UNESCO sites as a heritage product that we are offering the world, it should be a rallying round of the red, gold, green, and the black star.” She called on citizens to look beyond regional or ethnic lines and see fugu and kente as enduring expressions of Ghana’s collective identity. “It is not about any particular tribe. It is about what it is that identifies us as Ghanaians. I am using your platform to thank all the people who bought into the idea and wore fugu on Wednesday. Come Wednesday, let’s be even bigger,” she encouraged. With her words, the minister painted a vision of unity, one where every stitch of fugu and kente tells the story of a nation woven together by heritage, pride, and hope for the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Ghana Foundation Brings Valentine’s Day Blood Drive to Upper East Region Schools
In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, MTN Ghana Foundation extended a life-saving gesture to the Upper East Region by organizing a large-scale blood donation exercise aimed at replenishing the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital blood bank. The initiative, part of the Foundation’s annual Valentine activities, drew enthusiastic participation from students at Bolgatanga Senior High, Zamse Technical, and Bolgatanga Technical Senior High schools. Speaking to the media during the event, Martin Yaw Kumobah, Territory Sales Controller for the Upper East Region, explained the Foundation’s motivation. “The MTN Ghana Blood Donation Exercise isn’t new; we’ve been doing this for years across the country. This year, in the Upper East, we’re targeting about 400 pounds of blood to support the regional blood bank. The best love we can show humanity is by donating blood to save lives. You never know who might benefit; it could be you or someone close to you.” The blood drive was conducted simultaneously across the three schools, with students lining up to contribute and share in the cause. Kumobah emphasized that the campaign is a nationwide effort, with parallel exercises happening in all regional capitals. Students who participated echoed the importance of donating blood for the good of others, noting the unpredictability of emergencies and the need for a well-stocked blood bank to save lives in critical moments. MTN Ghana Foundation’s initiative not only celebrated the month of love but also fostered community spirit and social responsibility among the region’s youth, reinforcing the message that a single act of kindness, like donating blood, can make a difference in countless lives. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Multiple Vulnerabilities on the Rise Despite Decline in Severe Food Insecurity
While Ghana has recorded a slight national decrease in severe food insecurity, from 5.1% in the second quarter of 2025 to 4.6% in the third quarter, the latest data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reveals a troubling surge in the number of citizens facing compound vulnerabilities. According to the GSS, 227,519 Ghanaians were found to be simultaneously food insecure, multidimensionally poor, and unemployed in Q3 2025. This marks an increase of 19,455 people compared to the previous quarter, reflecting a 9.4% rise in just three months. The number of those classified as only food insecure also hit a high of over 4 million in Q2, underscoring the persistent challenge of ensuring consistent food access across the country. The report draws attention to enduring gender and geographic disparities. Among rural female-headed households, severe food insecurity peaked at 8.1%, highlighting the disproportionate impact on women living in rural communities. These trends come as Ghana intensifies its push towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the target to achieve Zero Hunger. Despite improvements in macroeconomic indicators, the benefits are being unevenly distributed, leaving many at risk of falling through the cracks. Analysts caution that unless targeted policy interventions are implemented, the rising number of households experiencing overlapping vulnerabilities could threaten national gains in food security, poverty alleviation, and decent work. At a press briefing in Accra, Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu urged policymakers to rethink one-size-fits-all approaches and prioritize tailored solutions for high-burden regions. “Target high-burden regions with tailored food security, agricultural, and market-access solutions instead of one-size-fits-all approaches,” he advised, emphasizing the urgent need for more focused and responsive interventions. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Modern Day Social Media Slavery: The Monetization Dilemma Facing African Content Creators
Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Email: apexnewsgh@gmail.com In the digital age, social media has become a global equalizer, bridging continents, cultures, and communities. Platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have revolutionized how we interact, share stories, and even build livelihoods. Yet, beneath this veneer of democratization, a troubling disparity persists, one that many African content creators and digital entrepreneurs are finding increasingly difficult to ignore. The question that lingers: Why are African creators still largely excluded from direct monetization opportunities offered by these very platforms? Recently, media personality Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen voiced his concerns about what he describes as “modern-day social media slavery,” a term that resonates deeply with many across the continent. His frustration and that of countless others stems from the ongoing marginalization of African voices in the digital economy, particularly when it comes to earning money from content creation. Africa’s social media landscape is nothing short of remarkable. TikTok, for example, boasts over 189 million users across the continent, an impressive 11.9% of its global audience. The surge is most notable among Gen Z, with Egypt and Nigeria leading in user numbers at 32.9 million and 27.4 million, respectively, closely followed by South Africa’s 17.5 million. Facebook’s dominance is even more pronounced, with between 290 and 377 million African users as of 2025-2026, representing a staggering 82% market share among all social platforms. Instagram and YouTube also enjoy robust growth, driven by widespread smartphone adoption and improving internet infrastructure. YouTube alone counts roughly 180 million African users, with Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa topping the charts. These statistics highlight Africa’s immense contribution to the global digital community. The continent’s youth, in particular, are not just passive consumers; they are active creators, trendsetters, and influencers. Yet, despite their numbers and creativity, a significant barrier remains: the inability to directly monetize their creativity on major platforms like TikTok. For millions of African content creators, the lack of direct monetization options is not just an inconvenience; it’s a structural disadvantage. TikTok, in particular, has come under scrutiny for not enabling direct monetization for African users, despite the platform’s rapid growth and deep penetration across the continent. While some African countries have recently gained access to Facebook’s monetization features, TikTok’s policies still leave many creators in the lurch. This exclusion means that, for now, the only way for an African TikTok creator to earn from their content is through complex workarounds. Typically, creators must rely on intermediaries based in the US or Europe, who register accounts, enable monetization, and then share the proceeds with their African partners. This not only complicates the process but also perpetuates a dependence on Western gatekeepers, a scenario that many, including Mr. Stephen, liken to a new form of digital servitude. The frustration is palpable, especially when considering the influence of African content creators on global trends. Figures like Mark Angel, Itsyaboymaina, Carter Efe, Ilyas El Maliki, Wode Maya, Mihlali Ndamase, Aisha Yesufu, and others have amassed millions of followers and generated content that resonates far beyond the continent’s borders. They are proof that African creativity is not only vibrant but also commercially viable. Yet, these same heroes are now being called upon to leverage their influence for change. As Mr. Ngamegbulam passionately argues, they have a responsibility, not just to themselves, but to the broader African creator community, to advocate for policy reforms that will allow direct monetization for all African users. Their collective voices could pressure tech giants to recognize Africa’s value not just as a market, but as an essential part of the global creative economy. Describing the situation as “modern-day slavery” is not mere hyperbole. The current dynamics effectively relegate African creators to second-class status in the digital world. While creators in the West enjoy seamless access to monetization features, sponsorships, and brand partnerships, their African counterparts are forced to navigate a maze of bureaucratic hurdles and rely on international connections just to earn a share of the same opportunities. This is particularly egregious when considering that Africa’s youth are among the most engaged and dynamic users of these platforms. The West reaps the benefits, both in terms of advertising revenue and cultural capital, while Africans are left scrambling for scraps. The exclusion is not only economically damaging, but it also sends a troubling message about whose voices and stories are considered valuable in the digital age. For many young Africans, social media represents more than just entertainment; it’s a lifeline to economic empowerment, self-expression, and global visibility. The inability to monetize content directly stifles entrepreneurship, discourages innovation, and perpetuates existing inequalities. It also means that Africa’s digital economy is not reaching its full potential, with billions of potential revenue lost to foreign intermediaries. Moreover, the absence of direct monetization deepens the digital divide between Africa and the rest of the world. It prevents local creators from reinvesting in their communities, building sustainable businesses, or even supporting themselves and their families. This is especially critical given the continent’s burgeoning youth population and high unemployment rates, conditions that make the promise of digital entrepreneurship all the more appealing. The reasons behind this exclusion are complex. Some platforms cite issues like payment infrastructure, regulatory challenges, or concerns about fraud. Others may simply be slow to adapt their policies to regions outside their primary markets. But whatever the rationale, the effect is the same: African creators are systematically denied the same opportunities afforded to their peers elsewhere in the world. This disparity is all the more galling given the relentless growth of social media usage in Africa. The continent is one of the fastest-growing markets for platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Its users are young, tech-savvy, and eager to engage. They create viral trends, generate massive view counts, and shape conversations on a global scale. The data is clear: Africa is not just a consumer market; it is a creative powerhouse. It is both ironic and troubling that, to monetize their creativity, African content creators must rely on Western infrastructure and intermediaries. This not
DVLA Reiterates Strict Guidelines for Use of DV Number Plates
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has issued a firm reminder on the correct use of DV number plates, emphasizing that these plates are strictly reserved for licensed car dealers and vehicle manufacturers and are not intended as a substitute for full vehicle registration. Stephen Attuh, Director of Communication at the DVLA, addressed the issue on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, February 5, in response to increasing public confusion and misuse of DV plates on roads nationwide. He clarified that DV plates are designed for limited, temporary use, such as moving vehicles from a dealer’s lot for repairs, defect fixing, or test drives before final sale. Attuh highlighted a widespread misconception among motorists who believe DV plates can be used indefinitely, even after purchasing a vehicle. He stressed, “You are not required to have a DV plate on your vehicle so long as it is not for purposes of fixing a defect on it or test driving. Once the vehicle is sold to you and you are off the dealer’s facility, you are required by law to register the vehicle to be duly identified before it can be on our roads.” He attributed the growing misuse of DV plates to some car dealers who flout regulations, allowing buyers to use the plates unlawfully. Citing Regulation 23 of Legislative Instrument (LI) 2180, Mr. Attuh underscored that the rules governing trade licences are clear, and any breach is a violation of the law. “The DV plate has many limitations, and its use for ordinary driving is not permitted,” he reiterated. The DVLA’s renewed advisory seeks to curb unlawful practices and ensure that vehicles on Ghana’s roads are properly registered and identifiable, in line with existing legal requirements. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Unveils Post-Harvest Initiative to Boost Efficiency and Cut Losses in Agriculture
Ghana’s agricultural sector marked a pivotal moment as the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, reiterated the government’s commitment to building a resilient and efficient food system, one that goes beyond increased production to protecting the hard-earned harvests of farmers. Speaking at the official launch and handover of locally fabricated post-harvest equipment, Minister Opoku described the event as a symbol of Ghana’s deliberate shift towards local innovation, value addition, and sustainability in agriculture. He acknowledged a long-standing challenge: despite investments in boosting output, the country has continued to lose a significant portion of its harvests due to poor post-harvest handling. “Inadequate storage and processing have not only wasted farmers’ effort and income, but have also weakened our national food systems,” the Minister noted. The new initiative seeks to change that narrative by engaging 2,231 youth artisans to fabricate around 300 threshers, 200 for maize and 100 for soybeans, across seven technology solution centres. More than 3,000 farming families nationwide are expected to benefit. Minister Opoku emphasized that the programme is about more than just numbers; it’s about building a skilled workforce to serve Ghana’s agriculture for years to come. The impact will be seen in reduced post-harvest losses, higher farmer incomes, improved produce quality, and stronger rural economies. Sustainability, the Minister stressed, is at the core of the initiative. “Equipment alone is not enough; skills and ongoing technical support are essential,” he said. The programme, therefore, includes comprehensive user training, a technical support system, and the involvement of trained agricultural and engineering graduates to guarantee safety, reliability, and continuity. He underscored that the future of Ghana’s agriculture lies in efficiency, value addition, and the dignity of labour. It also depends on empowering women farmers, equipping young people with relevant skills, and ensuring that every harvest contributes to national development. World Food Programme Country Director praised the initiative as a practical, homegrown solution to Ghana’s persistent post-harvest losses. She noted that significant quantities of maize and soybeans are lost after harvest, undermining incomes, nutrition, and national food security while driving up prices. The WFP supports the holistic approach, which addresses everything from production to processing, storage, and market access. By aligning with Ghana’s Feed Ghana programme and its broader mechanisation agenda, the new initiative promises to enhance food security and transform rural livelihoods for the better. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Calls Grow to Amend National Peace Council Act to Guarantee Youth Representation
A groundswell of advocacy is emerging from Ghana’s Upper East Region, where youth leaders are urging lawmakers to amend the National Peace Council Act to secure formal youth representation at the national level. The demand comes amid rising consensus that sustainable peacebuilding must reflect Ghana’s youthful demographic and empower young people as central actors in national security policy. The call gained momentum during a two-day consultation in Bolgatanga, where youth, community stakeholders, security agencies, and civil society organisations gathered to contribute to Ghana’s National Action Plan (NAP) on Youth, Peace, and Security. The event, organised by the National Youth Authority (NYA) with support from international and national partners, offered young people a platform to share their experiences, propose policy reforms, and advocate for a more inclusive peace governance structure. While youth are present on local peace committees, participants noted that the absence of a statutory guarantee for their representation at the national level leaves their influence subject to goodwill rather than law. They argued that codifying youth participation in the National Peace Council would elevate their role from symbolic presence to institutional accountability, ensuring their voices help shape crucial peace and security decisions. Discussions drew on United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, which recognises youth as vital agents in conflict prevention and peacebuilding. With one in four young people worldwide living in or affected by conflict, participants emphasized the urgency of embedding youth voices in peace structures at every level. Francis Takyi-Koranteng, Upper East Regional Director of the NYA, highlighted that young Ghanaians have long been marginalised or unfairly stereotyped as sources of instability. He stressed that, with Ghana’s large youthful population, inclusion is not optional but essential, and the quality of engagement at the consultation demonstrated young people’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to national peace frameworks. UNDP officials commended the consultative process for fostering genuine dialogue and co-creation, moving youth engagement from tokenistic to transformative. They noted that legal backing for youth representation would reinforce the legitimacy and resilience of Ghana’s peace architecture. The Upper East engagement is part of a nationwide effort to craft a National Action Plan that taps into youth creativity and leadership for peaceful, inclusive development. Stakeholders agreed that amending the National Peace Council Act to guarantee youth representation would build trust, accountability, and long-term stability. As Ghana advances its Youth, Peace, and Security agenda, the message from Bolgatanga is clear: young people are not just beneficiaries of peace, they are vital partners whose place at the national table must be protected by law. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minister of Energy and Green Transition Explores Stronger Ties with AFD for Ghana’s Energy Future
Dr. John Jinapor, Ghana’s Minister of Energy and Green Transition, recently sat down with representatives from the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) for a pivotal discussion on the future of Ghana’s energy sector. The atmosphere was one of collaboration and shared vision as both parties reflected on their partnership’s achievements and mapped out new horizons together. The meeting centered around ongoing and forthcoming projects, with a strong focus on advancing reforms and making investments that foster sustainable growth and transform the energy landscape in Ghana. Dr. Jinapor emphasized the importance of building on the momentum of current initiatives, particularly those designed to improve efficiency, broaden access to electricity, and quicken the shift towards greener, more sustainable energy solutions. Throughout the conversation, AFD was applauded for its steadfast commitment as a development partner. Over the years, AFD’s support has been instrumental in shaping Ghana’s energy infrastructure and informing critical policy decisions. Dr. Jinapor acknowledged the profound impact of this partnership, noting that AFD’s contributions have been vital in helping Ghana achieve key energy development objectives. He also highlighted the need for continued collaboration, especially as the government pursues new strategies to modernize the sector and ensure that every Ghanaian benefits from reliable, sustainable power. The meeting concluded on a hopeful note, with both Dr. Jinapor and the AFD team expressing optimism about deepening their partnership. United by a common goal, they reaffirmed their commitment to building a resilient and sustainable energy sector that aligns with Ghana’s broader development agenda. Source: Apexnewsgh.com