GOLDBOD Boss Dares Minority to Pursue Parliamentary Probe Over $1.7bn Loss
A heated exchange is brewing between the leadership of Ghana’s Gold Board (GOLDBOD) and the Minority in Parliament, following allegations of massive financial losses at the state-owned agency. Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of GOLDBOD, has thrown down the gauntlet, calling on the Minority to set aside public rhetoric and instead use parliamentary channels to investigate the agency’s reported $1.7 billion loss in 2025. The Minority, spearheaded by Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has been vocal in its demands for a thorough probe, pushing for Mr. Gyamfi to appear before Parliament and answer questions about the agency’s finances. The issue has sparked press conferences and media debates, keeping the matter in the public eye. But Mr. Gyamfi, speaking boldly on Joy News’ News File program, dismissed suggestions that he was dodging scrutiny. “Do I, Sammy Gyamfi, look like somebody who will be afraid of a Parliamentary probe?” he quipped, urging his critics to channel their efforts through the appropriate committees. He emphasized that Parliament’s committee system provides the mechanisms for accountability, and challenged the Minority to make use of these structures, rather than relying on motions and press releases. “Parliament works in committees, haven’t you heard that phrase? You don’t even need any motion because GOLDBOD is under the oversight of the committee on economy with Kojo Oppong Nkrumah as a ranking member. Not too long ago, they came to GOLDBOD to engage us and ask me questions. They can order me to produce documents,” Gyamfi stated. As the public debate continues, all eyes are now on Parliament to see if the Minority will heed the call and formally initiate committee investigations into GOLDBOD’s operations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Nears Debt Restructuring Completion with Belgium Agreement
Ghana has taken a major step forward in its efforts to resolve the nation’s debt crisis, following the signing of an agreement with Belgium to restructure €163 million owed to the country’s export credit agency. Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson announced the milestone, describing it as a crucial move towards rebuilding trust in Ghana’s economy and ensuring a more secure financial future. “This agreement brings Ghana closer to completing its debt restructuring, restoring confidence and securing a more stable economic future for our people,” Dr. Ato Forson stated after the signing ceremony. Explaining the significance of the deal, the Finance Minister said it would relieve pressure on the national budget by lowering the government’s debt servicing costs. This, he noted, would free up resources to be invested in essential public services and infrastructure projects, directly benefiting citizens. “For every Ghanaian, it means more of our national resources can go towards improving lives rather than paying unsustainable debt,” Dr. Ato Forson emphasized. He highlighted how the agreement would make it possible for the government to allocate more funds to healthcare, education, roads, and other social infrastructure, rather than diverting vital resources to creditors. Beyond its immediate financial impact, the agreement represents a broader shift in Ghana’s fiscal management. Dr. Ato Forson stressed the need to prevent a repeat of past debt problems, revealing that the government is working to enshrine new fiscal rules in law. “Even if this government is not there, the next government will have to make sure that these fiscal rules are respected,” he said. The Finance Minister expressed gratitude to the Belgian government for its cooperation and for contributing to Ghana’s progress in tackling its debt challenges. The agreement with Belgium is the latest in a series of deals aimed at restructuring Ghana’s external debt and restoring fiscal stability after a period of economic turbulence. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Residents Warned as Spoiled Poultry Products Illegally Dumped in Ho Community
Residents of Tsawenu and Sokode Ando stumbled upon an unusual and troubling scene. Cartons filled with frozen chicken drumsticks, whole chickens, chicken feet, and other poultry parts were scattered along a path leading to the farmlands. The discovery soon sent shockwaves through Ho and its surrounding communities. Lawrence Senya, the Ho Municipal Environmental Health Officer, was quick to issue a public caution: residents should avoid purchasing or consuming poultry products, especially those found in the area, until further notice. Initial reports revealed that some of the chicken was still frozen and had no telltale odor, tempting some locals to collect, prepare, and eat the meat. But the absence of spoilage signs didn’t convince officials of its safety. “We cannot rule out the possibility of contamination, toxins, or other harmful substances,” Mr. Senya cautioned, explaining that unknown individuals may have deliberately disposed of the products for a reason. As word spread, a joint team from the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and environmental health officials launched an investigation to identify those responsible for the illegal dumping. In the meantime, community sensitization efforts began, urging anyone who had collected poultry from the site to voluntarily surrender it. Many residents had already cooked, smoked, or roasted the chicken before learning of the potential risks. To prevent further exposure, environmental health officials have been retrieving the surrendered products for safe disposal. Educational campaigns have intensified, warning residents to steer clear of suspicious poultry products until the authorities complete their investigation. Mr. Senya also reminded cold store operators, wholesalers, and retailers that food waste or expired products should only be disposed of through proper channels, with the supervision of health authorities. The incident has sparked serious conversations about food safety in the municipality. Authorities are appealing to the public to report any suspicious food dumping or unsafe handling to the FDA or local health offices, aiming to prevent a possible outbreak of foodborne illnesses. Wisdom Akorli, the Assemblyman for the area, condemned the act as evil. “This is an evil act for someone to dump spoiled frozen food in my area to destroy my people, but I pray we get the person,” he declared. He encouraged residents to surrender any questionable poultry to the authorities and assured them of his commitment to working with officials to bring the culprits to justice. “If you feel unwell after consuming any of these products, please report immediately to the nearest health facility,” he urged. As the investigation continues, the people of Ho are reminded to remain vigilant and prioritize their health above all else. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Technical Glitch Disrupts Tax Payments: GRA Moves Swiftly to Restore Normalcy
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has encountered an unexpected challenge. Taxpayers, importers, and clearing agents who logged onto the Ghana.gov payment platform found themselves facing delays in processing their payments. The disruption, traced to technical issues affecting the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS), and the Ghana Integrated Tax Management and Information System (GITMIS), was soon recognized as a widespread concern. The GRA quickly sprang into action. Working hand-in-hand with its technical partners, the Authority launched an all-hands-on-deck operation to diagnose and resolve the glitches. While the core issue was isolated to payment processing, the filing of tax returns remained unaffected. The platform itself stayed online, but many users noticed that their payments were taking longer than usual to be processed or weren’t immediately reflected on their accounts. Recognizing the potential impact on the nation’s taxpayers and business community, the GRA issued an urgent statement. They assured all stakeholders that technical teams were working around the clock and that resolving the problem was a top priority. The Authority emphasized that delayed transactions would eventually be processed and properly reflected in users’ portals once the system was fully restored. Importers, clearing agents, and taxpayers who depend on these systems for their daily activities were asked to remain patient. The GRA pledged to keep the public informed about progress and to minimize further disruptions as much as possible. In their concluding message, the Authority expressed sincere regret for the inconvenience caused, thanking everyone for their patience and understanding as the technical teams worked diligently to restore normal payment operations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Energy Minister Highlights Major Debt Clearance and Savings from Sector Reforms
Ghana’s Energy and Green Transition Minister, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has revealed that sweeping reforms in the country’s energy sector have led to the clearance of about $1.47 billion in legacy debt, alongside substantial cost savings for the nation. The announcement came during a press briefing on Thursday, August 20, where Dr. Jinapor detailed recent achievements and ongoing efforts to stabilize the sector. According to the Minister, one of the most impactful measures has been the government’s shift from expensive liquid fuels to natural gas, a move that has saved Ghana approximately $500 million. Dr. Jinapor also highlighted improvements to the cash waterfall mechanism, which have resulted in significantly better payment flows to Independent Power Producers (IPPs). “Before we came to office, just about 6 billion was declared monthly into the Cash Waterfall. IPPs were receiving just about 42%. Because of the work we did together and the policy reforms that we implemented, today we declare close to about 15 billion every month into the Cash Waterfall mechanism and almost all the IPPs receive about 100% of the invoice bills,” he explained. Further renegotiations with IPPs have delivered an additional $250 million in savings, Dr. Jinapor noted. He added that when the current administration took office, the outstanding bill for the energy sector was about GH¢80 billion, but significant progress has since been made in reducing arrears and enhancing financial sustainability. “These reforms are part of our broader efforts to stabilize Ghana’s energy sector, improve financial sustainability, and reduce the cost of power generation,” Dr. Jinapor concluded, underscoring the government’s commitment to long-term sectoral health and economic growth. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Petroleum Tanker Drivers Begin Three-Day Strike Over Poor Yard Conditions at Kumasi Depot
Members of the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union have launched a three-day sit-down strike, protesting what they describe as the worsening and hazardous state of the parking yard at the Kumasi Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation (BOST) Depot. The drivers accuse BOST officials of neglecting urgent calls to rehabilitate the yard, which has become increasingly unsafe, especially during rains. Union members say the situation not only endangers their safety but also hampers their ability to efficiently carry out their duties. Beyond the deplorable yard conditions, the drivers have also raised concerns about persistent fuel shortages during offloading at the depot. They attribute these shortages to faulty machinery and equipment used for offloading petroleum products, a problem they say has gone unaddressed despite repeated complaints. Union leaders report that multiple engagements with BOST management have yet to yield solutions. Now, with their grievances unresolved, the drivers have resorted to industrial action, sparking fears of fuel supply disruptions. Industry observers warn that if the strike is prolonged, it could trigger widespread fuel shortages across the country. Dominic Brenya, Chairman of the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union, affirmed that the strike will continue until their concerns are addressed. The union is demanding immediate intervention to rehabilitate the yard and repair faulty offloading equipment to ensure safety and operational efficiency. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Water Ltd Refutes Claims of Withholding River Pollution Data
Ghana Water Ltd (GWL) has firmly denied allegations that its staff were threatened or instructed to withhold data on river turbidity and pollution levels, responding to accusations that surfaced in a video circulating on social media involving a Joy News journalist. In a statement released on Monday, August 17, 2026, GWL described the allegations as inaccurate and misrepresentative of the company’s mandate and operations. The utility company clarified that it routinely conducts internal turbidity tests as part of its water treatment processes and shuts down treatment plants whenever turbidity levels surpass established safety thresholds. However, GWL emphasized that it does not hold official data on the quality of natural river bodies. “GWL does not hold official data on natural river bodies,” the statement read, noting that the responsibility for monitoring and maintaining turbidity data lies with the Water Resources Commission (WRC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Addressing additional claims made by the journalist, GWL stated that its records showed no evidence of the journalist visiting the Kwanyako treatment plant, contradicting assertions that access to information was denied. The company also rejected rumors that the Presidency had issued any directive instructing GWL to withhold river turbidity data. “It is therefore totally untrue that the Presidency has directed GWL to withhold river turbidity data,” the statement stressed. GWL encouraged the public to distinguish between the specific mandates of the water utility, the WRC, and the EPA when interpreting reports about river pollution and turbidity. The company urged viewers and readers to approach the claims presented in the viral video with caution. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Police Call for Timelier Information Sharing from MTN to Tackle Digital Crime
At the 2026 MTN Media Editors Forum in Tamale, the Northern Deputy Regional Crime Officer, ASP Richard Ackumey, addressed a growing concern for law enforcement: delays in accessing crucial information from telecommunications companies. Speaking candidly to the assembled media and MTN representatives, ASP Ackumey highlighted the evolving nature of crime in the digital age and the critical need for close collaboration between security agencies and telcos. “We rely so much on the telcos,” he explained. “Crime has evolved, and much of it now takes place within the digital space. To gather evidence and get to the root of these incidents, we need seamless cooperation with the telecommunications sector.” ASP Ackumey pointed out that legal frameworks such as the Data Protection Act and other regulations protecting citizens’ privacy can sometimes hinder timely information sharing, even when court orders are obtained. “While we understand these laws are vital for customer protection, they also constrain telcos in releasing information needed for ongoing investigations,” he said. “Our main challenge has been the timely release of information. Whenever we submit requests, especially court orders, we expect a swift response from the telcos.” Despite these challenges, ASP Ackumey acknowledged that the relationship between the police and MTN has generally been positive. He expressed optimism that continued dialogue and cooperation would lead to more efficient crime-fighting in the future. “We look forward to more fruitful discussions like this and to building a safer Ghana together,” he concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Ghana Celebrates Growth, Community Impact, and Commitment to Digital Equality at 2026 Editors Forum
At the 2026 Editors Forum in Tamale, Emmanuel Afutu, MTN Senior Manager for Network Implementation, highlighted MTN Ghana’s impressive growth and its dedication to national development and digital inclusion. Sharing the company’s first half 2026 results, Afutu reported that service revenue surged by 32.3 percent to 15.0 billion Ghana cedis, EBITDA rose by 47.1 percent to 9.3 billion, and profit after tax increased by 46.8 percent to 5.1 billion. “These numbers are not just a celebration of our performance, they symbolize our ability to invest in our network, create jobs, support communities, and contribute to Ghana’s progress,” Afutu said. In the first half of the year, MTN Ghana paid 5.6 billion cedis in direct and indirect taxes, plus 384.7 million in fees and levies, underlining the company’s role in national development. Beyond financial success, Afutu emphasized MTN’s ongoing investment in people through the MTN Ghana Foundation, which supports education, health, and economic empowerment. He cited the MTN Skills Academy and the Heroes of Change initiative, which rewards extraordinary community leaders and changemakers across the country. This year, the overall Heroes of Change winner will receive 400,000 cedis, with category winners earning 200,000 cedis each, and all finalists receiving 100,000 cedis. Afutu further spotlighted MTN’s community outreach, mentioning volunteer-driven WASH initiatives in schools across 16 regions and health screenings in hospitals such as Sola and Niga Zanga. “These interventions may seem simple, but they reflect our commitment to being present and supportive in every community we serve,” he said. Recognizing ongoing challenges around access, affordability, and digital literacy, Afutu called for continued collaboration among government, regulators, educational institutions, business, and communities. “Technology should be an equalizer,” he said, stressing MTN’s belief in digital equality so that every child, whether in Napanduri, Tamale, or Accra, has the opportunity to thrive. He also underscored MTN’s commitment to sustainability, detailing the company’s four-pillar ESG agenda and the recent launch of Sustainability Month under the theme ‘Small Actions, Big Impact.’ Afutu remarked, “Our success and Ghana’s progress are connected in a sustainable way. Sustainability is part of how we do business.” As MTN marks thirty years in Ghana, Afutu expressed gratitude to the media, government, regulators, customers, and communities: “Thirty years ago, our ambition was simply to connect people. Today, we connect people to opportunities, education, healthcare, and financial services. As Ghana grows, we will grow with Ghana.” He concluded by thanking all stakeholders for their support over the past three decades and inviting them to join MTN on the next stage of its journey, promising that the company’s story will remain deeply intertwined with Ghana’s future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Expands Network Across Northern Ghana, Pushing for Digital Inclusion and Opportunity
At the 2026 Editors Forum held in Tamale, Emmanuel Afutu, MTN Senior Manager for Network Implementation, unveiled ambitious plans to strengthen digital connectivity across northern Ghana. In his address, Afutu outlined MTN’s ongoing commitment to expanding its network, revealing that the company is currently constructing 38 new sites in the Northern Region, 17 in the Savannah Region, 14 in the Upper East Region, and 11 in the North East Region. Nationwide, MTN’s target is to complete 500 new sites, one of the largest expansions in the company’s recent history. But Afutu was quick to point out that MTN’s vision extends beyond simply increasing coverage. “Our measure of success is not just the number of sites we build, but the opportunities these sites create,” he told the gathered editors. “Connectivity means a farmer can reach new markets, a student can access online education, a digital business can receive payments anywhere, and families can stay connected no matter how far apart they are.” Afutu emphasized that MTN sees itself as an integral part of Ghana’s social and economic future. “Connectivity without opportunity is not enough. That’s why digital inclusion is so important to us. People must not only have access to technology, but also the skills and opportunities to use it to improve their lives.” Highlighting the impact of mobile money, Afutu shared that in the first half of 2026, mobile money transaction value grew by 44.4%, while active users increased by 3.1%, and transaction volumes and mobile revenue both rose by 23.3%. “For millions of Ghanaians, mobile is no longer just a payment service, it has become a tool for business, for saving, and for participating in the digital economy,” he noted. “Market women can now travel without carrying cash, knowing their funds are secure even if their phone is lost.” Afutu also acknowledged the growing importance of cybersecurity and data privacy as more Ghanaians embrace digital services. He reaffirmed MTN’s commitment to protecting customer information and strengthening the trust that underpins the company’s relationship with its users. “A stronger business supports a stronger Ghana,” Afutu concluded. “But none of these investments would be possible without a sustainable business model. We remain dedicated to building not just a bigger network, but a brighter digital future for all Ghanaians.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com