Ghana Ranked Second Safest Destination in Africa for 2025
Ghana has been ranked the second safest place to visit in Africa, according to a report by global tourism firm Altezza Travel. Apexnewsgh reports The report highlights Ghana’s very low crime rate, which is impressive compared to other countries. In fact, Ghana’s crime rate is lower than that of Canada, Greece, and Australia. The report also notes that Ghana excels in the Global Peace Index, surpassing countries like Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, France, China, and Jamaica. Additionally, Ghana has a zero score in the Terrorism Index, making it an attractive destination for tourists. While Ghana may not be on par with “first-world” countries in terms of the Global Safety Report and Human Development Index, it outperforms many African nations, including popular tourist destinations like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Madagascar. According to the Numbeo Crime Index 2025, Ghana is one of the top three countries with the lowest crime rate in Africa, alongside Rwanda and Tunisia. Altezza Travel’s analysis was based on various reports and indexes, including Global Peace, Global Terrorism, KOF Globalisation, Crime, Global Safety, and Human Development. The Ghana Police Service’s efforts to scale up community patrols have been praised by international organizations, contributing to the country’s reputation as a safe destination. With its rich culture, vibrant cities, and stunning natural beauty, Ghana is an exciting destination for tourists and travelers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Donald Trump appoints Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone, Jon Voight as ‘special envoys’ to Hollywood
President-elect Donald Trump has announced the appointment of actors Mel Gibson, Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone as ambassadors to help make Hollywood “bigger, better and stronger”. Mr Trump said on his social media platform Truth Social the actors, all supporters of the president-elect, had been appointed as his “special envoys” to the world-famous filmmaking hub, which he described as a “great but very troubled place”. The 78-year-old Republican, who will take over from President Joe Biden after he is sworn in on Monday, said it was “my honour” to announce the appointments of “these three very talented people”. He said: “They will serve as Special Envoys to me for the purpose of bringing Hollywood, which has lost much business over the last four years to Foreign Countries, BACK-BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE!” | Mel Gibson at a special screening of the film Monster Summer in Los Angeles in September. Pic: Reuters Mr Trump said the actors “will be my eyes and ears, and I will get done what they suggest”. He continued: “It will again be, like The United States of America itself, The Golden Age of Hollywood!” | Jon Voight attends a premiere for the film Reagan in Los Angeles in August. Pic: Reuters Gibson said in a statement he got the news “at the same time as all of you and was just as surprised” but “nevertheless, I heed the call”. “My duty as a citizen is to give any help and insight I can,” he added. Gibson – who lost his home in one of the multiple blazes making up the deadly wildfires which have been ripping through Los Angeles for more than a week – jokingly added: “Any chance the position comes with an Ambassador’s residence?” Representatives for Voight and Stallone did not immediately respond to a request for comment. US film and television production has been hampered in recent years, with setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hollywood guild strikes of 2023 and, in the past week, the LA wildfires. Overall production in the US was down 26% from 2021, according to data from ProdPro. In the greater Los Angeles area, productions were down 5.6% from 2023 according to FilmLA, the lowest since 2020. Source: news.sky.com
President Mahama to Visit Volta Region, Express Gratitude for Overwhelming Support
President John Dramani Mahama is set to visit the Volta Region on Friday, January 24, 2025, to express his heartfelt gratitude to the people for their overwhelming support in the 2024 presidential elections. Apexnewsgh reports The visit is a testament to the region’s significant contribution to the President’s victory, having secured an impressive 90.11% of total votes. The Thanksgiving event, scheduled to take place at Ho Jubilee Park at 12:00 pm, will be a grand celebration of the region’s loyalty and dedication to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The party’s sweeping victory in the region, where they won all 18 parliamentary seats, including the traditionally contested Hohoe Constituency, is a clear indication of the people’s trust and confidence in the NDC. The NDC in the Volta Region has extended an open invitation to all party members, supporters, and residents to join in welcoming the President. This visit is seen as an opportunity for the party to reinforce its bond with the people and show appreciation for their continued loyalty. The Volta Region has long been a stronghold of the NDC, and President Mahama’s visit is expected to further cement this relationship. As the President prepares to visit the region, the people of Volta are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to express their gratitude and loyalty to the NDC. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Takes Action: Special Cybersecurity Taskforce to Monitor and Combat Social Media-Driven Conflict
In a proactive move to address the escalating violence in Bawku and its surrounding regions, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana has established a Special Cybersecurity Taskforce. Apexnewsgh reports This taskforce will closely monitor, investigate, and take decisive action against individuals using social media to instigate conflict in the area. The CSA is urging the public to report any digital evidence of persons promoting violence or unrest, including audio, images, social media accounts, and other relevant materials. Citizens can submit their reports via WhatsApp to 050 160 3111, where the evidence will be thoroughly examined for further action. To ensure accountability, the task force will engage with ambassadors and high commissioners from countries where some instigators may reside, facilitating their extradition to Ghana. Those found guilty of promoting violence or unrest could face prosecution under anti-terrorism laws and international conventions on genocide, which carry severe penalties under international law. President John Dramani Mahama has directed the CSA to collaborate with National Security to curb the use of social media in escalating violent conflicts in Bawku (Upper East Region) and Walewale (North East Region). This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the root causes of violence and promoting peace and stability in the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Condemns Vandalism of Party Property in Savannah Region
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Savannah Regional Secretariat has strongly condemned the destruction of party property by a group of individuals allegedly linked to the party. Apexnewsgh reports In a letter addressed to the Regional Commander of the Ghana Police Service, Regional Secretary Salisu Be-Awuribe denounced the acts of vandalism in the township of Bole, which occurred on January 21, 2025. According to reports, certain party supporters, disgruntled over the non-appointment of their preferred individuals as ministers, went on a rampage, destroying NDC-branded signboards. The Regional Executive Committee of the NDC has distanced itself from these actions, labeling them “barbaric and anti-party.” The leadership emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable and warned that any party member found participating in such activities would face disciplinary measures. The party has also directed the police to investigate the matter thoroughly and prosecute all individuals responsible for the vandalism. Furthermore, the letter urged the police to pursue not just the perpetrators but also anyone remotely connected to the unlawful acts to serve as a deterrent. This stance is in line with the broader call for peaceful engagement and condemnation of violence, as echoed by organizations such as CODEO. In a statement, the NDC encouraged party faithfuls and the people of Ghana to remain calm and trust in President Mahama’s ability to select a team capable of helping him “reset the country.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Road Construction Debate: Asenso-Boakye Sets Record Straight
A heated debate has erupted in Parliament over the Akufo-Addo administration’s road construction record. Apexnewsgh reports Former Minister for Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has dismissed allegations by Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Minister-designate for Roads and Highways, that the administration constructed only 673 kilometres of new roads during its eight-year tenure. Asenso-Boakye presented a robust defense of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government’s achievements, citing a total of 13,624 kilometres of roads built between 2017 and 2025, as documented in the transition report. This figure, he emphasized, far surpasses the 4,630 kilometres constructed by the previous government in eight years. Asenso-Boakye criticized Agbodza for focusing solely on new road construction, arguing that this presents a skewed narrative of the NPP government’s achievements. He highlighted the significance of road infrastructure improvements, including: Asphalt Overlays: Major urban centers, such as Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani, and Takoradi, saw significant road quality improvements. Gravel Roads: Approximately 6,000 kilometres of gravel roads were completed, particularly benefiting rural areas. Reconstruction and Upgrades: 1,665 kilometres of roads were reconstructed or upgraded. Bridges: 35 bridges were constructed nationwide to improve connectivity. Asenso-Boakye urged Parliament and the public to acknowledge the broader scope of road infrastructure development under the NPP administration, stressing that maintenance, rehabilitation, and upgrades are essential for a sustainable and resilient road network. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Prioritizes Regional Balance in Cabinet Appointments
President John Dramani Mahama has made significant strides in forming a balanced government, with his latest ministerial appointments reflecting a strong commitment to regional representation. Apexnewsgh reports As of now, the Northern and Volta Regions boast the highest number of ministers, with four appointees each. This deliberate effort to ensure regional balance is a hallmark of President Mahama’s administration, demonstrating his dedication to inclusivity and diversity. The appointments come on the heels of his January 7, 2025, inauguration at the Black Star Square in Accra. Following closely behind the Northern and Volta Regions are the Ashanti, Central, and Greater Accra Regions, each with three ministerial nominees. The Bono East, Western, and Eastern Regions also have three appointees each, while the Upper East and West, North East, Savannah, Bono, Oti, Ahafo, and Western North Regions have two ministerial representatives each. As President Mahama continues to make key appointments, his commitment to regional balance is expected to remain a guiding principle. This approach is likely to foster a sense of unity and cooperation among the various regions, ultimately contributing to the country’s overall development and growth. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
ACEPA Raises Red Flag Over Ministerial Vetting Process
The African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA) has expressed deep concerns over the ongoing vetting process for ministerial nominees, describing it as “unsatisfactory”. Apexnewsgh reports According to ACEPA, the conduct of members from both sides of Parliament has hindered the process, preventing a thorough interrogation of nominees on critical national issues. Dr. Rasheed Draman, Executive Director of ACEPA, emphasized the need for a reassessment of the Appointments Committee’s approach to ensure the vetting process serves its intended purpose. “There is a need for some serious rethinking about how the Appointments Committee conducts its business,” he stated. ACEPA’s concerns are two-fold. Firstly, they argue that members of Parliament from the Minority are missing opportunities to hold nominees accountable, instead focusing on trivial issues. Secondly, they believe that members of the Majority are treating the vetting process like a “friendly match,” rather than taking it seriously. The current approach, ACEPA argues, does not allow for rigorous examination of nominees on pressing matters affecting the country. This has sparked public criticism, with many observers urging Parliament to prioritize substance over partisan interests during these crucial deliberations. ACEPA’s remarks serve as a call to action, emphasizing the need for a more effective and thorough vetting process to ensure that only the most competent and suitable individuals are appointed to ministerial positions. Source: Apexnewsgh.com