Over 100 journalists demand ‘immediate and unsupervised’ foreign media access into Gaza
More than 100 journalists, photographers and war correspondents have signed a petition demanding “immediate and unsupervised foreign press access to the Gaza Strip”. The petition is signed by leading journalists working for global news organisations. It is part of the Freedom To Report initiative, which was started by award-winning photographer Andre Liohn. Signatories include Sky News’ special correspondent Alex Crawford, broadcaster Mehdi Hasan, CNN’s Christiane Amanpour and chief international correspondent Clarissa Ward, as well as iconic war photographer Don McCullin. Image:Palestinians wait to receive food from a charity kitchen. Pic: Reuters They are renewing calls for both Israel and Hamas to allow foreign journalists into Gaza to report independently on the war, something they have been barred from doing since the start of the latest conflict in 2023. The petition goes further to say if “belligerent parties” ignore the appeal, media professionals will be supported to enter Gaza without consent “by any legitimate means, independently, collectively, or in coordination with humanitarian or civil society actors”. It states: “Unrestricted, independent access for foreign journalists is urgently needed, not only to document the unfolding atrocities but to ensure that the truth of this war is not dictated by those who control the weapons and the narrative. “Gaza is the most urgent case, but it is not the only one. It reflects the gravest pattern of silencing journalists and restricting the press. If the democratic world truly intends to push back against this erosion of freedom, it must not turn a blind eye to Gaza. “Defending press access there is defending press freedom everywhere.” Source: news.sky.com
Outcry in Israel as Hamas releases video of emaciated hostage alongside starving Palestinian children
Outcry rang out in Israel over the weekend after Hamas released video appearing to show a visibly gaunt Israeli hostage alongside images of emaciated babies as international fury grows over the rising deaths of Palestinians from starvation under Israel’s offensive and crippling aid restrictions. The undated video, which NBC News was not able to independently verify, appears to show Evyatar David, who was one of around 250 people taken hostage during the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023, attacks. Standing in an apparent tunnel while shirtless, David — who is 24, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents hostage families — appears markedly frail, his ribs and shoulder blades visible through his skin. The footage was juxtaposed with images of small emaciated children, their bones poking out from beneath their skin, as the number of children dying from starvation in Gaza under Israel’s offensive and aid restrictions continues to rise. This screengrab from a video released on Aug. 1 by the armed wing of Palestinian militant group Hamas shows Israeli hostage Evyatar David, 24, looking weak and malnourished.Hostages and Missing Families Forum / NBC News Nearly 170 people in Gaza — more than 90 of them children — have died from malnutrition since the war began, according to the Palestinian health ministry in the enclave, with the death toll climbing swiftly in recent weeks. Speaking at a rally in in Tel Aviv on Saturday, David’s relatives expressed fear he could face the same fate, with his brother Ilay David calling on the Israeli and U.S. governments to “do everything in your power, by any means necessary” to secure his release, according to statements shared by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum The footage from Hamas came a day after the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group, which is also holding Israeli hostages, released its own video appearing to show a visibly withered Rom Braslavski, who was also taken captive on Oct. 7, 2023. President Donald Trump’s envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, met with hostage families on Saturday and emphasized the Trump administration’s commitment to returning the 50 hostages who remain in Gaza, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum said in a statement. Of the 50 who remain captive, just over 20 were believed to be alive as of late June, according to the prime minister’s office. The forum quoted Witkoff as saying: “We know who is alive, and someone will be to blame if they don’t come out alive.” NBC News was not able to independently confirm the comment. The meeting came a day after Witkoff made a short and extremely rare trip into Gaza alongside Mike Huckabee, the U.S. ambassador to Israel, in a visit condemned by some as a publicity stunt. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also spoke “at length” with the families of the two men on Saturday night, expressing “deep shock” at the recordings released by Hamas, according to his office. In a statement, Netanyahu accused Hamas of “deliberately starving” both hostages and Palestinian civilians in Gaza by “preventing them from receiving aid.” David’s brother similarly accused Hamas of “starving him deliberately” during Saturday’s rally. Israeli authorities have repeatedly accused Hamas of diverting aid from Palestinian civilians throughout the war. But multiple aid groups have said they saw no signs of aid diversion, while an internal U.S. government analysis found no evidence of systematic theft of aid supplies by Hamas, according to a report presented to State Department officials and later seen by NBC News. The Israeli military dismissed the report as “biased.” Israel’s deadly military offensive and crippling aid restrictions in recent months have caused the spiraling hunger crisis in Gaza, aid groups, including the United Nations, have repeatedly said. Israel launched a blockade in March that barred the entry of aid into the enclave in the midst of its ceasefire with Hamas. It lifting the blockade in May but has still allowed only a trickle of basic supplies into the territory. Nine-year-old Mariam Dawwas with her mother in Gaza City on Saturday.OMAR AL-QATTAA / AFP – Getty Images Last Sunday, the Israeli military said it would pause military activity in some areas to allow more aid into Gaza as it faced mounting international outrage over the spiraling hunger crisis. Humanitarian organizations have warned that while more aid has begun to trickle into the enclave, it is still not nearly enough to stave off famine. The world’s leading body on hunger, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, said on Tuesday that the “worst-case scenario of famine” was already unfolding in the Palestinian enclave under Israel’s deadly military offensive. It noted that its warning was an alert and not a formal “famine classification.” Netanyahu has denied there is starvation in Gaza, despite the IPC’s report and rising deaths from starvation reported by local health officials and aid groups. Israel launched its offensive in Gaza following the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023, attacks in which some 1,200 people were killed and around 250 taken hostage, marking a major escalation in a decadeslong conflict. Since then, more than 60,800 people have been killed in Gaza, including thousands of children, while thousands more have been injured, according to the local health ministry, and much of the enclave has been reduced to rubble. Israel continues to face allegations of genocide in its assault in Gaza in a case brought before the International Court of Justice, while a growing number of experts and advocates have also accused the country of genocidal acts, a charge both Israel and the U.S. have rejected. Source: nbcnews.com
Interior Minister Advocates for Enhanced Security Partnerships
The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, opened a two-day workshop aimed at fostering collaboration and strategic focus within the nation’s security sector. The workshop, hosted by the Ministry of the Interior, gathered key leaders, including newly appointed Ministerial Advisory Board Members, Board Chairs, and heads and deputy heads of various agencies under the Ministry. As participants gathered, the air was filled with anticipation and a shared commitment to enhancing coordination and reviewing existing programs. The goal of the workshop was clear: to build a collective understanding of the operational frameworks and performance of the Ministry and its agencies. In his opening remarks, Minister Muntaka underscored the critical role of the Ministry in safeguarding internal peace and public safety, highlighting the importance of effective law enforcement across the country. “As we face evolving security challenges, we must forge stronger partnerships and adopt a problem-solving mindset,” he asserted, knowing that the task ahead required a renewed sense of urgency, discipline, and foresight. Mr. Muntaka encouraged all participants to view the workshop as a strategic platform for reflection and planning. He expressed the necessity of developing implementable strategies that would enhance the effectiveness of the Ministry’s operations. “This is an opportunity to build shared clarity, foster renewed partnerships, and drive actionable progress,” he stated, motivating the attendees to engage fully in the discussions ahead. As the workshop unfolded, the importance of collaboration and unity in tackling security challenges became increasingly evident. With a shared vision, the leaders left revitalized and committed to maintaining a peaceful and safer Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Police Uncover Disturbing Details in GIS Officer’s Murder
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has shed light on the shocking murder of Stephen King Amoah, a Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) officer. Amoah’s charred body was discovered on July 9, 2025, sparking widespread outrage. According to CID Director-General COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, Amoah was last seen on July 3, after leaving his residence at Ashongman Estate to meet a suspect, Bright Aweh, who had promised to repay a debt. Aweh had sent Amoah photos of cash bundles, but when Amoah failed to return home, a missing person report was filed. The police arrested Aweh on July 6, and during interrogation, he claimed to have handed Amoah GHC500,000 in cash. However, inconsistencies in his account raised suspicions. The discovery of Amoah’s burnt body near the GBC Satellite area marked a turning point in the investigation. A thorough search of Aweh’s residence revealed alarming forensic evidence, including blood stains, signs of a hasty clean-up, and freshly sprayed walls. A second crime scene nearby yielded more incriminating evidence, such as a burnt woollen carpet, blood-stained fabric, and a fufu pestle soaked in blood. Aweh’s vehicle was also impounded, bearing traces of blood. All evidence has been sent for forensic analysis, and DNA samples from Amoah’s mother and son are being used to confirm the identity of the remains. Bright Aweh has been charged with murder and is currently on remand. The police are pursuing all leads to ensure justice is served, and a special operation is underway to identify and arrest any accomplices involved in the murder. The case will continue on August 8, 2025. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Secures GH₵110 Million for Adwumawura Programme to Empower Ghana’s Youth
The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, announced that the government has secured a substantial funding of GH₵110 million to operationalize the Adwumawura Programme this year. The funding, allocated by the Ministry of Finance under the directive of President John Dramani Mahama, reflects a strong commitment to creating job opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship among the nation’s young people. During the Government Accountability Series on Monday, August 4, Minister Opare Addo articulated the importance of this financial commitment, stating, “In further demonstration of the government’s unwavering support for youth empowerment, an amount of GH₵110 million has been allocated this year for the nationwide rollout of the Adwumawura Programme. This financial backing sends a strong message that we are not merely announcing intentions, we are investing in the future of young people and resetting the country.” The Adwumawura Programme, which was launched by President Mahama on April 28 at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi, is a flagship initiative designed specifically to combat youth unemployment while encouraging innovation. The programme aims to create, mentor, and support at least 10,000 businesses each year, with a focus on young Ghanaians aged 18 to 35. Under this initiative, beneficiaries will receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs, including entrepreneurship training, access to startup capital, essential equipment, and invaluable business mentorship. Mr. Opare Addo emphasized that the Adwumawura Programme is not just about creating jobs; it also aims to nurture sustainable enterprises that will play a crucial role in national development. By unlocking the potential of Ghana’s youthful population, the initiative aspires to contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth. As the roll-out of the Adwumawura Programme begins, the government’s proactive stance seeks to empower the youth and guide them towards becoming successful entrepreneurs, thus fostering a vibrant and dynamic economic environment that benefits all Ghanaians. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Ghana Police Uncover Elaborate Scheme to Smuggle Stolen Vehicles into Nation
The Ghana Police Service has unveiled a complex criminal operation responsible for smuggling stolen vehicles into the country. At a press conference held on Monday, August 4, the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, shed light on these illicit activities involving fake identities and deceptive shipping methods. The CID has established a dedicated task force to address vehicle-related crimes, which has gathered crucial intelligence on the operations of international criminal syndicates engaged in this nefarious trade. “These criminals rent vehicles using fake identities. While the rental agreement is still valid, they secretly arrange for the vehicles to be shipped out. Once they receive confirmation that the vehicle has been successfully exported, they stop paying the rental fees and cut off communication with the rental company,” COP Donkor revealed. The investigation has identified that the vehicles are frequently rented from car rental companies abroad, primarily in Canada, and are smuggled into Ghana under false pretenses. The task force has uncovered 43 luxury vehicles suspected to have been stolen from various countries, including the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Canada, the USA, Germany, Italy, and France. Notable examples among these seized vehicles are high-end brands like Rolls-Royce, Audi Q8, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Out of the total 43 vehicles, 18 have been ordered by the courts to be returned to their countries of origin. So far, eight vehicles have been successfully repatriated, while 10 others are currently undergoing repatriation processes. The fate of the remaining 25 vehicles is still being determined through ongoing legal proceedings. In addition to these findings, the special task force has also seized six additional vehicles believed to have been stolen, including four Toyota Tundras, one Toyota RAV4, and one Range Rover, all traced back to thefts in Canada. As investigations progress to identify and apprehend the masterminds behind this illegal importation network, COP Donkor stressed the importance of vigilance among key stakeholders at ports across the country. She urged clearing agents, port officials, and the general public to remain alert and report any suspicious vehicle transactions. “We urge the public to report suspicious vehicle dealings and cooperate with police investigations as the CID intensifies its fight against cross-border vehicle crimes,” she concluded, reinforcing the necessity for community involvement in curbing these criminal activities. With this ongoing investigation, the Ghana Police Service aims to dismantle this transnational smuggling network and reclaim stolen vehicles, signaling a significant step forward in the fight against vehicle-related crime in the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
President Mahama Urges Swift Rollout of E-Visa Services to Transform Travel in Ghana
President John Dramani Mahama has called upon the Ministers for Interior, Transport, and Foreign Affairs to join forces and expedite the implementation of e-visa services in Ghana. This directive was announced during the commissioning of the newly established Air Navigation Services (ANS) and the Multi-Agency Command Centre for Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems on Monday, August 4. During the event, President Mahama emphasized the importance of the API and PNR systems in efficiently managing passenger and travel document data. Recognizing the potential of these platforms, he charged the ministers to collaborate closely to extend their capabilities. “I’m directing the Hon. Ministers for Interior, Transport, and Foreign Affairs to collaborate to ensure that this platform is expanded to enable us to implement this long-awaited e-services for the country,” he stated confidently. The President emphasized the need to integrate these systems to cover both sea and land border posts, while also enhancing the functionality of e-gate systems. The President’s vision extends beyond the aviation sector; he highlighted the need to advance cargo information systems, which would enhance the effectiveness of customs operations. “These policy directives will ensure the country enjoys the full benefits of what we’re witnessing today,” he noted. The advent of the e-visa system is expected to streamline visa application processes, significantly cut down on paperwork and bureaucracy, and bolster the tourism industry. “The future of travel is digital, and Ghana must not be left behind,” President Mahama asserted, reflecting his commitment to making Ghana an increasingly attractive destination for both business and leisure travelers. With this forward-thinking approach, the government aims not only to modernize travel in Ghana but also to position the nation as a competitive player in the global tourism and travel landscape. The President’s directive is a significant step towards enhancing the overall travel experience and embracing digital transformation in the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Ghana’s Government Unveils Historic Cocoa Price Increase for 2025/2026 Season
The Government of Ghana has declared a substantial increase in the producer price of cocoa for the upcoming 2025/2026 season. The price will rise from US$3,100 to US$5,040 per tonne, marking an impressive 62.58% increase in dollar terms. This announcement was made by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who chaired the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) that made the decision. As the cocoa season prepares to kick off on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Minister Forson emphasized the significance of this price adjustment. “It is instructive to note that the Government has by this decision increased the producer price significantly by 62.58% in US$ terms,” he stated, sending a wave of optimism through the farming community. This newly established price now represents 70% of the gross Free-On-Board (FOB) value, which is set at US$7,200 per tonne. This commitment aligns with President John Mahama’s promise to ensure cocoa farmers receive a fair share of the market value. In historical context, the previous administration had pegged the FOB value at US$4,850 per tonne for the 2024/25 season, setting the producer price at US$3,100, a mere 63.9% of the FOB value. Remarkably, this was at a time of more favorable global market prices. The government ensured that the new gross FOB value was fairly calculated, taking into account outstanding contracts for 100,000 tonnes sold at US$2,600 per tonne in the 2023/2024 crop season and expectations for the forthcoming season. With the average exchange rate standing at GHS10.25 to US$1, the new producer price translates to GHS51,660 per tonne. This is an increase from GHS49,600, resulting in an adjusted price of GHS3,228.75 per 64kg bag, indicating a positive response to the strengthened Ghana Cedi and dropping inflation rates. To further safeguard farmers from potential income loss due to the Cedi’s strength, the government had previously stabilized the cedi equivalent of US$3,100 per tonne by maintaining an exchange rate of GHS16 to US$1 for several months. This move provided a significant GHS1,114 subsidy per bag sold since Q2 2025, raising the farmer share of the FOB from 63.9% to over 99%. In addition to the price increase, the PPRC has approved revised margins and fees for key players in the cocoa value chain, such as buyers, hauliers, warehouse operators, and quality control personnel. To ensure a smooth start to the season, COCOBOD, the industry regulator, has made arrangements for jute sacks and logistics. The government has also reintroduced the Free Cocoa Fertiliser Programme, providing farmers with free fertilisers, insecticides, spraying machines, fungicides, and flower inducers. Minister Forson expressed satisfaction with this initiative, highlighting it as a crucial support system aimed at enhancing yields and farmers’ income. Furthermore, the government has announced a Tertiary Education Scholarship Scheme for children of cocoa farmers, set to commence in the 2025/26 season and fully implemented by the 2026/27 academic year. Additionally, a Ghana Cocoa Traceability System will be launched, ensuring the traceability of cocoa from the farm to the port, in compliance with upcoming European Union Deforestation Regulations, which take effect on December 31, 2025. These ambitious reforms also entail amendments to the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, making it imperative for COCOBOD to focus exclusively on its core mission of improving cocoa yields and supporting farmers. The government has pledged its support to restore cocoa’s status as a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy, reaffirming faith in the new leadership at COCOBOD. As the new cocoa season approaches, the government’s efforts reflect a strong commitment to ensuring the welfare of cocoa farmers, with hopes of fostering growth and sustainability in the industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
NIA Cracks Down on Illegal Ghana Card Applications by Foreign Nationals
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has initiated a crackdown on foreign nationals attempting to illegally acquire the Ghana Card. This decisive action comes in response to numerous alarming reports from financial institutions and concerned citizens regarding suspicious activities among non-citizens eager to infiltrate the system. The NIA’s commitment to safeguarding the Ghana Card is underscored by the recent conviction of an individual who is now serving an eight-month prison sentence for attempting to secure the card unlawfully. Following this case, a total of 13 additional cases are currently under investigation. Among these are seven Nigerian nationals who recently faced charges in the Dansoman Circuit Court for their attempts to register as citizens. “We’ve received alarming reports from individuals, financial institutions, and conscientious Ghanaians about foreigners trying to exploit our registration centres,” explained Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, the Head of Corporate Affairs at the NIA. “Just last week, we were in court with the group of seven Nigerians, and on August 6, we are set to appear again. We are cautiously optimistic that we will secure further convictions. After serving their sentences, anyone convicted will be deported back to their home countries.” The Ghana Card is now a vital tool for accessing essential services, elevating the integrity of the registration system to a matter of national priority. In response to the rising concerns, the NIA has heightened its surveillance measures, strengthened security protocols at registration points, and is collaborating with other agencies to eliminate any further illegal attempts. Moreover, the Authority urges all citizens to remain vigilant and support these efforts by reporting any suspicious behavior at registration sites. As the NIA embarks on this essential mission, they emphasize that the security and trustworthiness of the Ghana Card system are of paramount importance to the nation’s wellbeing. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen