Government Disburses GH¢9.7 Billion in Coupon Payments, Reaffirms Commitment to Debt Obligations
Ministry of Finance announced a significant milestone in Ghana’s ongoing Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), confirming the successful payment of GH¢9.7 billion in coupon payments. This latest disbursement brings the total payout under the programme this year to an impressive GH¢19.4 billion. The Ministry emphasized that the timely payments reflect the government’s dedication to honoring the terms outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding governing the DDEP. This move, officials say, is designed to reinforce investor confidence and strengthen Ghana’s fiscal credibility at a pivotal moment for the nation’s economy. In a further demonstration of fiscal prudence, the government has established two new sinking fund accounts—one denominated in Ghana cedis and the other in US dollars. Created by the 2025 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review and the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), these accounts are set to act as liquidity buffers, ensuring the smooth and timely redemption of bonds maturing over the next three years. The Ministry reassured investors and the public that all future debt obligations, including upcoming DDEP coupon payments, will be met fully and punctually. “The government assures investors and the public of its unwavering commitment to fiscal discipline and debt sustainability,” the Ministry stated. With these measures firmly in place, the government aims to maintain trust in Ghana’s financial system and chart a path toward long-term economic stability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Zelensky leaves White House unscathed as he buys more time
The optics could not have been more different this time. Unlike the shockingly ill-tempered previous meeting in February, US President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky seemed determined not to look confrontational – despite their remaining differences. Zelensky wore a collared suit (although not of the classical variety), and Trump complimented his attire. The Ukrainian president also repeatedly said “thank you”, which must have pleased his host, too. At his opening appearance in the Oval Office, Zelensky spoke little – or maybe he was not keen to, fearing that what he had to say was different from what Trump wanted to hear. Differences showed later, when the US and Ukrainian presidents appeared before journalists together with European leaders. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron both said a ceasefire in Ukraine should be the next step, even though Trump had argued that it was not necessary before a more permanent solution is found. Zelensky remained conspicuously quiet on the issue. What we heard from the leaders suggests that their discussions behind closed doors focused on security guarantees for Ukraine and prospects for a meeting between Zelensky and Putin. No details were revealed about what guarantees were discussed, or how being face-to-face in the same room with Putin will help end the war.But following the day of talks, Zelensky described security guarantees as a necessary “starting point for ending war”. At an earlier news conference outside the White House, he said security guarantees could include a $90bn (£67bn) deal between Kyiv and Washington to acquire US weapons, including aviation systems, anti-missile systems and other weapons he declined to disclose. Zelensky also said the US would purchase Ukrainian drones, which would help boost domestic production of the unmanned aircraft. Though no formal agreement has been reached, Zelensky said a deal could be worked out over the next 10 days. The Ukrainian leader, however, was more willing to talk about his possible meeting with Putin, telling reporters he was ready to meet directly with his Russian counterpart, and if Moscow agreed, Trump could join the negotiations. Putin has so far resisted a direct meeting with Zelensky. “Ukraine will never stop on the way to peace,” he told reporters, adding that no date had been set. One issue the leaders seemed reluctant to bring up before the media were possible territorial concessions by Ukraine. Zelensky also mentioned how he showed his US counterpart a map of Ukraine, stressing that Russia has managed to occupy less than 1% of the Ukrainian territory in the last 1,000 days. This was news to the White House, he said. And it helped swing Trump’s mood, apparently. “I have been fighting with what is on that map,” Zelensky told reporters, adding that he pushed back on what the Oval Office map showed as Russian-captured territories. “It isn’t possible to say this much territory has been taken over this time. These points are important.” The Ukrainian leader seemed mostly upbeat about his latest White House appearance, describing his meeting with Trump as “warm”. His optimism, however, appeared deliberate as he sought to avoid a repeat of his last Oval Office visit and convince his American hosts to embrace the European position on ending the war. But perhaps the key outcome of the trip was that it helped Ukraine to buy more time. The call that Trump had with Putin following his first meeting with the European leaders suggests that Russia has managed to do just the same. Despite widespread fears, no catastrophe has happened at the summits in Alaska and Washington – at least nothing from what has been made public. The status quo remains. Source: bbc
PRINPAG Holds Elections for New National Executives
The Private Newspaper and Online Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) heads to the polls today to elect new national executives who will steer the association’s affairs in the coming years. The elections have generated significant interest across the media industry, reflecting the vital role private newspaper publishers play in Ghana’s democratic and media landscape. Among the leading contenders for the presidency is David Tamakloe, widely regarded as the frontrunner. Tamakloe’s campaign has focused on strengthening press freedom, improving the welfare of members, and repositioning PRINPAG as a formidable voice within Ghana’s media sector. He faces competition from Awudu Mahama, who is also vying for the top position. Other key positions are being hotly contested. Michael Antwi-Agyei and Roger Agana are in the race for Vice President, while Prince Kawuunda Mayanbe and William Sarpong are among those competing for Organising Secretary. Naana Alerh Kubi and others are contesting for Treasurer and Financial Secretary, and Mr. Emmanuel Opare Djan is running for Public Affairs and External Relations. Outgoing executives have called on members to ensure a peaceful and transparent electoral process, emphasising the importance of unity within the Association to address the challenges facing private publishers. The results of the elections are expected later today and will set the course for PRINPAG’s future direction. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Sa-ad Iddrisu Declines Calls to Contest Tamale Central By-Election, Urges Repeal of Dual Citizenship Ban
Economist and policy analyst Dr. Sa-ad Iddrisu has formally declined appeals from sections of the public and party supporters urging him to contest the upcoming Tamale Central by-election, following the passing of sitting MP Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. In a statement issued on Monday, Dr. Iddrisu expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late MP and offered prayers, saying, “May Allah grant Hon. Murtala Paradise/Jannah. Ameen.” Dr. Iddrisu explained that after careful consultation with his lawyer, he concluded that stepping in to replace the late legislator was “not part of God’s divine plan, at least for now.” He used the occasion to urge President John Mahama and the NDC’s parliamentary majority to fulfil their pledge to repeal the constitutional provision barring dual citizens from contesting parliamentary elections, as outlined on page 162 of the party’s 2024 manifesto, “Resetting Ghana.” The economist also extended gratitude to Cassiel Ato Forson, the Finance Minister, for his continuous support and mentorship, and to Hon. Aduna Gangdu, whom he described as a “big brother” who has guided him since his youth. While acknowledging the encouragement and goodwill from grassroots supporters and party faithful, Dr. Iddrisu reiterated that this was not the “divine time” for him to enter Parliament. The Tamale Central seat became vacant earlier this month following the death of Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, setting the stage for a crucial by-election in the Northern Region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
SEC Moves to Regulate Forex Trading in Ghana with New Guidelines
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced plans to fast-track the development of regulatory guidelines for forex trading in Ghana, a sector contributing to the estimated $6.6 trillion traded globally each day. The initiative aims to enhance transparency, protect investors, and boost confidence in the country’s financial system. According to the SEC, these efforts are part of a broader strategy to deepen Ghana’s financial markets, align with international best practices, and safeguard economic stability. During a recent engagement with the Ghana Journalists Association, Mensah Thompson, Acting Deputy Director-General of the SEC, revealed that work on the regulatory framework is already underway. “We are currently developing the guidelines on forex trading and so very soon are going to regulate and license forex traders in this country,” Thompson disclosed. In addition, the Commission is streamlining the process of verifying licensed investment companies, introducing a short code system to help the public easily identify legitimate firms and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. “The purpose of the short code is for easy verification of licensed operators,” Thompson explained. Albert Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association, commended the SEC’s proactive steps and highlighted the importance of collaboration between regulators and the media to promote financial literacy and protect investors. “We acknowledge the critical work of the Securities and Exchange Commission especially we want to recognize SEC as a crucial pillar of our nation’s economic architecture,” he said. Analysts believe that once the regulatory regime is finalized, it will boost investor confidence, expand participation in forex trading as an asset class, and reduce the risks associated with unregulated operators who have targeted retail traders in recent years. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ex-Government Spokesperson Urges GTEC to Focus on Unaccredited Religious Titles, Not Deputy Health Minister
Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, a former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, has urged the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to redirect its scrutiny from Deputy Health Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah and instead investigate the widespread use of unaccredited titles by religious bodies and individuals. Speaking to a media platform, August 19, Dr. Boakye-Danquah argued that GTEC’s focus on Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s academic credentials was misplaced. He pointed out that many individuals, particularly within religious circles, use honorary and unaccredited titles without oversight. “GTEC should leave the Deputy Minister alone. I think that there are people who are using titles that they must pursue. From a religious background, I know that some people hold themselves with certain titles. GTEC is supposed to look at all institutions as they are,” he said. Dr. Boakye-Danquah highlighted the issue of some theological institutions in Ghana operating without proper accreditation, yet still issuing certificates and conferring titles. He urged GTEC to “turn their attention to the religious bodies—those that are using Reverend, Rev. Dr., etc., that are also not accredited,” suggesting that such action would help sanitise the system. His remarks come amid an ongoing dispute between GTEC and Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, who is also the Member of Parliament for Essikadu-Ketan. GTEC has challenged her claim to the academic rank of professor and has cautioned her against presenting herself with the title. In a letter to the Chief of Staff, GTEC requested that Dr. Ayensu-Danquah provide proof of her professorial appointment by August 11, 2025. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah’s legal team, led by David K. Ametefe, responded on August 8, asserting that she was appointed Assistant Professor of Surgery by the University of Utah in the United States. The lawyers argued that GTEC had no authority to demand proof of an appointment made outside Ghana and warned that if the Commission did not withdraw its correspondence within 14 days, they would seek legal remedies to protect their client’s reputation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Nigeria Begins Deportation of Convicted Cybercrime Syndicate Members
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has commenced the deportation of 42 Chinese and Philippine nationals convicted of cyber terrorism and Ponzi scheme offences, marking the first batch in a total of 192 convicts slated for removal. The initial group is scheduled to depart Nigeria on Sunday afternoon, following their conviction in connection to a major raid carried out on December 10, 2024, at Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. The December operation, which was one of the largest anti-cybercrime raids in the country, resulted in the arrest of 759 suspects. The syndicate, comprised mainly of Chinese and Philippine nationals, had been running a large-scale cyber fraud and Ponzi scheme, defrauding victims both in Nigeria and abroad. According to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which led the prosecution, a total of 192 foreigners were convicted on charges including the use of fake online identities, training employees of Genting International Co. Limited in fraudulent practices, and various offences under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2006. The NIS has confirmed that additional batches of deportees will be airlifted on Monday and Tuesday, bringing the repatriation process to completion. All convicts have already been transferred to the Immigration Service for onward deportation to their respective countries. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede hailed the convictions and deportations as a milestone in Nigeria’s fight against cybercrime and financial fraud, affirming the Commission’s commitment to intensifying investigations, recovering stolen funds, and restoring national dignity in line with President Bola Tinubu’s anti-corruption drive. The December raid, which resulted in dozens of convictions, is regarded as a turning point in Nigeria’s crackdown on transnational financial crimes. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Son of Boko Haram’s Late Founder Arrested in Chad, Sources Confirm
The son of Boko Haram’s late founder, Mohammed Yusuf, has been arrested in Chad, where he was reportedly heading a jihadist cell, multiple sources have confirmed. Identified as Muslim Mohammed Yusuf, the young man, estimated to be around 18 years old, was captured along with five others suspected to be members of the Islamist movement his father established in Nigeria before being killed in a 2009 military crackdown that claimed about 800 lives. According to AFP, the arrest was carried out by Chadian security forces, though police did not officially confirm the identity of the group’s founder’s son among those detained. A Nigerian intelligence officer stationed in the Lake Chad region told AFP that reports had reached them about the arrest of a jihadist cell in Chad, allegedly led by Muslim, the youngest son of the late Mohammed Yusuf. The officer added that the suspects were believed to be linked not to Boko Haram directly, but to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a splinter faction formed after an ideological split from Boko Haram. Photographs obtained by AFP reportedly show a slim, short young man in a blue tracksuit, resembling the late Yusuf, standing among older detainees. The arrested youth, said to use the alias Abdrahman Mahamat Abdoulaye, is also believed to be the younger brother of ISWAP leader Habib Yusuf, also known as Abu Mus’ab Al-Barnawi. A former lieutenant of Mohammed Yusuf, now an opponent of the group, confirmed the arrest: “He and the team were arrested by Chadian security. They are six in number.” Chadian police spokesman Paul Manga stated that “bandits who operate in the city… they are undocumented, they are members of Boko Haram” had been apprehended in N’djamena. The arrest comes just days after the Nigerian Government announced the capture of another notorious leader, Mahmud Mohammed Usman, popularly known as Abu Baraa, and his deputy, Mallam Mamuda. For nearly 15 years, Boko Haram and its offshoots have waged a brutal insurgency across the Lake Chad basin, with attacks becoming increasingly bold in recent months. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Police in Sirte Arrest Libyan Driver, Mother, and Six Nigerians for Alleged Human Smuggling
Authorities in Sirte, Libya, have apprehended six Nigerian nationals, a Libyan driver, and his mother in connection with an alleged human smuggling operation. According to a statement released by Migrant Rescue Watch, the Abu Najim Police Department intercepted a vehicle driven by the Libyan suspect, identified by his initials A.M.M., with his mother as a passenger. During the operation, police discovered six undocumented Nigerian migrants hidden in the vehicle. All eight individuals—the six migrants, the driver, and his mother—were taken into custody and subsequently referred to the competent legal authorities for prosecution. “Migrant Rescue Watch reports that the Abu Najim Police Dept. (Sirte) seized a vehicle and arrested a Libyan driver (‘A.M.M.’) accompanied by his mother for attempted human smuggling of six undocumented migrants of Nigerian nationality. All referred to competent authorities for legal action,” the organization stated. Libya continues to serve as a major transit point for migrants seeking to cross the Mediterranean Sea to Europe, despite the significant dangers and the risk of detention that such journeys entail. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Anti-Galamsey Convenor Demands Arrest of NDC Executives Over Illegal Mining Allegations
Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Convenor of the Anti-Galamsey Coalition, has called for the immediate arrest of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Organiser, Joseph Yamin, and the party’s National Vice Chairman, Yakubu Abanga, citing their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities. Dr. Ashigbey voiced his concerns on Accra-based Channel One TV on August 18, stressing the need for law enforcement agencies to act without political bias in the ongoing fight against galamsey. The call for action follows a directive from the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, dated July 15, 2025, instructing the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to conduct a full-scale investigation into Yamin and Abanga after recent reports linked them to unauthorized mining operations. Despite the Attorney-General’s order, Dr. Ashigbey expressed disappointment over EOCO’s lack of visible action, urging them to treat the case with the same urgency as previous investigations, such as that of Akonta Mining involving Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi. “The NDC’s National Organiser, National Vice Chairman, have been pointed out by the AG to investigate them. Unfortunately, EOCO, we have not heard anything from you. Just as they did to Akonta Mining [Chairman Wontumi], they should arrest these two gentlemen and conduct the investigations,” Dr. Ashigbey stated. He emphasized that consistent enforcement of the law, regardless of political affiliation, is essential to effectively combat illegal mining. Dr. Ashigbey also called for prosecution in the case involving Chairman Wontumi, expressing concern over the silence following his arrest by EOCO, and urged that the NDC Member of Parliament for Aowin, Oscar Ofori Larbi, be investigated after local chiefs linked him to illegal mining activities. His comments come in the wake of the tragic August 6 helicopter crash that claimed eight lives. The victims were reportedly en route to a galamsey-related event when the accident occurred. In response, the government has announced a renewed crackdown on illegal mining across the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com