Ghana Signs Visa Waiver Agreement with Antigua and Barbuda to Boost Travel and Caribbean Ties
Ghana has entered into a historic visa waiver agreement with Antigua and Barbuda on the sidelines of the ongoing United Nations General Assembly, further expanding travel opportunities for its citizens. The agreement was formalized by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who expressed gratitude to his counterpart, H.E. E.P. Chet Greene, Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs, for helping to make the deal a reality. This latest arrangement marks the 10th visa waiver agreement secured for Ghanaians since the current Foreign Minister took office. Ablakwa highlighted that the Mahama-led administration is committed to enhancing the value of the Ghanaian passport, strengthening Ghana’s international image, and making travel easier for citizens. He emphasized that such agreements play a vital role in boosting trade, tourism, and cultural bonds—especially by deepening Ghana’s connections with the Caribbean. “The Mahama Administration is deliberate about adding more value to the Ghanaian Passport, projecting our image in the comity of nations and enhancing the travel experience of Ghanaians as we boost trade, tourism, and in this particular instance connect us to our brothers and sisters in the Caribbean,” Ablakwa said. The move is expected to open up new opportunities for collaboration and exchange between the two countries, while further positioning Ghana as a global partner. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Disburses Over GHS2 Billion for Community Development Through District Assemblies Fund
The government has released more than two billion Ghana cedis through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) to bolster development projects at the grassroots level. The announcement was made by Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang during the National Dialogue on Decentralisation and Responsive Governance. The two-day event, themed “Resetting Decentralization for Responsive Local Governance and Effective Service Delivery,” brought together key stakeholders and development partners to chart a course for reforming and strengthening Ghana’s local governance system. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted that the substantial allocation is aimed at improving service delivery and ensuring that resources are distributed equitably across all districts. “As government works to improve the disbursement of resources to our districts, we must also note that unprecedented amounts are being transferred directly to our local governments. You must be happy about that. So far, over 2 billion Ghana cedis have been disbursed through the District Assembly Common Fund to support development initiatives and improve essential service delivery at the community level. This is just one demonstration of our resolve to see to it that resources are used responsibly, and that the promise of decentralisation translates into tangible improvements,” she stated. The Vice President also stressed the importance of tailoring development interventions to the needs of citizens and grounding all strategies in robust data. “We must ensure that our development interventions respond to the needs and aspirations of our citizens. Our approach must be data and evidence-driven,” she added. The dialogue is expected to shape future policy and drive effective service delivery across Ghana’s local governments. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Tourism Sector Soars as Visitor Spending Hits GHS15.2 Billion
Ghana’s tourism sector is experiencing a remarkable upswing, with the latest figures from the Ghana Statistical Service revealing that inbound overnight visitors spent a record GHS15.2 billion between October 2022 and September 2023. According to the new report, 888,584 overnight visitors—representing nearly 99% of all international arrivals—powered a sharp rebound in both travel and spending. The tourism boom reached its peak in the third quarter of 2023, with arrivals surging by 61.6% compared to the final quarter of 2022. This growth was propelled by tourists from West Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Accommodation and food services emerged as the biggest winners, accounting for almost 63% of total spending. Hotels saw a notable rise in demand, recording 146,571 stays in Q3 2023 alone. Business and professional travellers led the way in expenditure, contributing GHS2.7 billion in a single quarter. Meanwhile, American tourists posted the highest per-capita spending, averaging GHS28,233 each. Top attractions such as Cape Coast Castle, Independence Square, and Kakum National Park drew the largest visitor numbers, with cultural tourism and heritage experiences at the forefront of the sector’s appeal. Despite these successes, officials caution that tourism remains heavily focused around Accra and the central corridor, highlighting untapped opportunities in other regions. Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu noted that the findings provide a roadmap for further growth, recommending the diversification of attractions beyond the capital, enhancement of visitor services, and greater integration of tourism revenues into local communities and small businesses. With an average stay of 12 nights and a growing appetite for cultural and leisure travel, Ghana is cementing its reputation as a leading African destination—not only for heritage tourism but also for business, festivals, and high-value leisure experiences. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NEIP Boss Decries Theft of Kayayei Training Equipment After 2024 Elections
The Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Mr. Eric Adjei, has revealed that vital equipment intended for training head porters, popularly known as Kayayei, was stolen from the agency’s premises following the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) loss in the 2024 general elections. Mr. Adjei lamented that the theft had severely undermined the continuity of training programs aimed at empowering vulnerable women and improving their livelihoods. Compounding the setback, Mr. Adjei reported that Green Hubs, established under the initiative to foster entrepreneurship, were transferred into the hands of private individuals rather than being managed for public benefit. He described the situation as a glaring example of gross mismanagement and called for urgent corrective action and accountability. Despite these challenges, the NEIP boss reassured stakeholders of his administration’s determination to restore the integrity of the programme. He pledged that all resources dedicated to youth and women’s empowerment would be protected and used effectively to achieve their intended purpose. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GTEC Orders UCC Vice-Chancellor to Vacate Office Over Retirement Age
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a directive for Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong to step down as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), citing his continued stay in office beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60. In a letter dated Friday, September 19, 2025, GTEC pointed to Article 199(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which requires public officers to retire at age 60 unless stated otherwise. “The Office of the Vice-Chancellor, being an office established under Section 7(1) of the University of Cape Coast Act, 1992 (PNDCL 278), is a public office under the meaning and intendment of Article 199(1). Hence, anyone acting in the office of the Vice-Chancellor is presumptively mandated to proceed on compulsory retirement upon attaining 60 years,” the letter emphasized. GTEC further referenced the University of Cape Coast Statutes (2016), which cap the Vice-Chancellor’s initial tenure at four years, renewable for an additional three years—provided the statutory retirement age is not exceeded. In response to the vacancy, GTEC has directed the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, to assume the role of Acting Vice-Chancellor. The Commission also acknowledged that the issue is currently before the Cape Coast High Court. As a result, GTEC has instructed the UCC Governing Council to suspend the appointment of a new substantive Vice-Chancellor until the legal proceedings are concluded. The directive has stirred discussions within the academic community about adherence to retirement statutes and the importance of following due process in leadership transitions. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Fire Ravages Parts of Madina Market, Leaving Traders Devastated
In the early hours of Friday, September 19, 2025, disaster struck the bustling Madina Market in Accra. As most of the city slept, flames erupted around 1:00 a.m., quickly consuming several shops and wooden structures, and casting a thick, smoky pall across the night sky. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and heartbreak. Traders and residents, drawn by the glow and commotion, watched helplessly as their livelihoods disappeared in the blaze, long before the arrival of emergency responders. By 1:36 a.m., the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) received an urgent call for help. Fire crews reached the market within two minutes, but the ferocity of the fire, coupled with a lack of nearby hydrants, meant reinforcements were needed. Four additional engines were dispatched to battle the inferno. According to a GNFS statement, “The fire affected wooden structures, two corn milling shops, and nine containers.” Firefighters worked tirelessly, confining the fire by 3:07 a.m., getting it under control by 3:19 a.m., and finally extinguishing it at 4:40 a.m. Though the flames left a trail of destruction, firefighters managed to save a nearby one-storey warehouse and neighboring buildings. Miraculously, there were no casualties. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but investigations are underway. Meanwhile, the GNFS has assured the public of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property, emphasizing the importance of swift action and public cooperation in emergencies. For many affected traders, the road to recovery will be long, but the community’s resilience remains unbroken in the face of loss. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Royal Nursing College Shut Down by GTEC Over Accreditation Issues
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has directed the Royal Nursing College in Kumasi to cease operations immediately after the institution’s accreditation was found to have expired nearly four years ago The Royal Nursing College in Kumasi faces an abrupt shutdown following a directive from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), which discovered that the college’s accreditation expired as far back as December 16, 2021. The order, outlined in a letter dated September 12, 2025 and signed by GTEC Director-General Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, mandates the college to halt all operations until it secures renewed accreditation from both GTEC and the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This decisive action comes after a meeting held on August 28, 2025, involving college officials, GTEC, the NMC, and the Ministry of Health’s Health Training Institutions Unit. The Commission’s letter made it clear that Royal Nursing College cannot continue functioning as a tertiary institution until full compliance with regulatory standards is achieved. According to the directive, the college must immediately cease operations and collaborate with its mentor institution, the University of Cape Coast (UCC), to craft a teach-out plan for students admitted between 2021 and 2024. Admissions are to be suspended, and no new students may be enrolled until the institution’s accreditation is fully restored. Additionally, the college is required to submit comprehensive documentation for its staff — including appointment letters, CVs, and evidence of regular remuneration, to verify employment status. The Commission also instructed Royal Nursing College to address all identified deficiencies and provide verifiable proof of corrective actions taken. Only after a joint verification visit by GTEC and the NMC will the prospect of accreditation renewal be considered. GTEC underscored the gravity of the situation, urging that the matter be handled with “the utmost urgency and seriousness it deserves.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Revamped Tema Shipyard Back in Business After Long Dormancy
The Minister for Transport has announced that the Tema Shipyard, originally established by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah to repair, maintain, and overhaul ships, has been restored to full operation after being non-functional for many years After years of inactivity, the historic Tema Shipyard has roared back to life, marking a significant milestone for Ghana’s maritime sector. The announcement came from the Minister for Transport, who revealed the restoration of the facility at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Wednesday, September 17. The revival of the shipyard, which was originally established by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah to repair, maintain, and overhaul ships, follows a directive from President John Dramani Mahama. This strategic intervention has transformed the once-dormant facility into a hub of renewed activity and innovation. As part of the comprehensive rehabilitation, the Shipyard has undergone several key upgrades: Dock 1’s main pump has been redesigned and reconstructed to improve docking times, Dock 2 has been reactivated for full operations, and the office facilities have been fully rehabilitated. These improvements have not only enhanced operational efficiency but have also created new employment opportunities for Ghanaians. In a move to further support the government’s 24-hour economy policy, the Shipyard has introduced a three-shift system, ensuring continuous operations and maximizing productivity. With these advancements, the Tema Shipyard is once again poised to play a vital role in Ghana’s economic development and maritime industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Ghana Hosts CSO Forum on Connectivity, Sustainability, and Digital Inclusion
On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, MTN Ghana hosted selected representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) at its Head Office in Accra for a forum focused on connectivity, sustainability, and digital inclusion. The CSO Forum is part of MTN’s ongoing stakeholder engagement initiatives aimed at fostering transparency, gathering feedback, and strengthening partnerships that support the company’s ambition to lead digital solutions for Africa’s progress. In her opening remarks, Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer (CCSSO) of MTN Ghana, underscored the critical role of CSOs as partners in shaping policy and public discourse. She emphasized that as the telecom and digital sector evolves into what she described as the “sector of sectors,” MTN must continue to balance business growth with responsibility. Ms. Wiafe reiterated that sustainability lies at the core of MTN’s strategy, highlighting initiatives such as the ban on plastic bottles in MTN offices to reduce waste and protect the environment. She also noted the company’s progress in renewable energy adoption, pointing out that half of MTN Ghana’s energy needs are now met through green sources. Reuben Opata, Chief Technical Officer of MTN Ghana, delivered a detailed presentation on the evolution of mobile technology and the state of MTN’s network. He stressed the centrality of investment in delivering reliable connectivity. “You cannot deliver quality service without significant investment. MTN has invested over $1 billion in Ghana’s network because that’s what it takes to expand coverage and improve quality,” he said. Mr. Opata further explained that despite these substantial investments, challenges such as frequent fiber cuts continue to disrupt service delivery. “This year alone, MTN has spent about $22 million repairing fiber cuts. Without these repairs, communication simply stops — that’s how critical fiber is to Ghana’s connectivity,” he added. Mrs. Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, Senior Manager for Corporate Communications, reaffirmed MTN’s commitment to engaging stakeholders in advancing Ghana’s digital agenda. She also pledged to sustain open and transparent communication between CSOs and MTN to deepen collaboration and build trust. The discussions at the forum also addressed issues such as accessibility for persons with disabilities, customer experience, and the role of digital technology in driving economic growth. Participants welcomed the open dialogue and raised concerns around Mobile Money fraud, affordability, accessibility, and inclusivity, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and highlighting areas where MTN could improve to better serve communities. Also present at the forum were Mr. Samuel Bartels, Senior Manager for Regulatory and Government Affairs, the Corporate Communications team, and other MTN Ghana staff. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Deal is done to keep TikTok in the US, says Trump
A deal has been made between the US and China to keep TikTok running in the US, according to President Donald Trump. “We have a deal on TikTok, I’ve reached a deal with China, I’m going to speak to President Xi on Friday to confirm everything up,” Trump told reporters as he left the White House for a state visit to the UK. The social media platform, which is run by Chinese company ByteDance, was told it had to sell its US operations or risk being shut down. However, Trump has repeatedly delayed the ban since it was first announced in January. Later on Tuesday, he ordered the deadline extended again, until 16 December. The US president said a buyer will be announced soon. The Wall Street Journal reported that under a deal being negotiated between the US and China, TikTok’s U.S. business would be controlled by an investor consortium that would include tech company Oracle, private equity firm Silver Lake, and venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz. In a new US entity created under the deal, US investors would hold a roughly 80% stake and Americans would dominate the board, with one member selected by the US government, according to the Journal, which cited people familiar with the matter. US users, meanwhile, would move to a new app, currently in the testing phase, that will have content-recommendation algorithms using technology licensed from ByteDance. TikTok’s algorithms are a top reason for the app’s success. Earlier, CNBC reported the deal would include a mix of current and new investors, and would be completed in the next 30 to 45 days. It also said Oracle would keep its existing agreement to host TikTok servers inside the US. That had been one of the main concerns of American lawmakers, over worries about data being shared with China. On Monday, a US trade delegation said it had reached a “framework” deal with China amid wider trade negotiations in Madrid. China confirmed a framework agreement but said no deal would be made at the expense of their firms’ interests. After the talks, Wang Jingtao, deputy head of China’s cyberspace administration, suggested in a press conference that the agreement included “licensing the algorithm and other intellectual property rights”. He added: “The Chinese government will, according to law, examine and approve relevant matters involving TikTok, such as the export of technology as well as the license use of intellectual property.” After initially calling for TikTok to be banned during his first term, Trump has reversed his stance on the popular video-sharing platform. In January, the US Supreme Court upheld a law, passed in April 2024, banning the app in the US unless its Chinese parent company ByteDance sold its US arm. The US Justice Department has said that because of its access to data on American users, TikTok poses “a national-security threat of immense depth and scale”. However, ByteDance has resisted a sale, maintaining its US operations are completely separate, and says no information is shared with the Chinese state. TikTok briefly went dark in January, but this lasted for less than a day before the initial ban was delayed. The deadline for a sale has since been extended four times, and the latest delay to the ban is due to end on 16 December. Source: BBC