YESLI ICE CEO Wins Big As MTN’s SMEGA Awards Celebrate Ghanaian Entrepreneurship
MTN Ghana reaffirmed its deep commitment to supporting Ghana’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), driving their growth through innovation, digital empowerment, and strategic partnerships at the 2025 SMEGA Awards ceremony in Accra. The MTN SMEGA Awards is a leading annual initiative that celebrates Ghanaian SMEs demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and resilience in driving socio-economic growth. As a platform, it has empowered hundreds of businesses by providing mentorship, crucial visibility, and access to essential digital and financial resources. As the headline sponsor, MTN joined a distinguished gathering of industry leaders, policymakers, diplomats, and entrepreneurs to celebrate the vital role SMEs play as Ghana’s economic engine and primary job creators. Speaking at the ceremony, Angela Mensah-Poku, Chief Enterprise Business Officer of MTN Ghana, commended Ghanaian entrepreneurs for their creativity and tenacity. “This evening is both a celebration of achievement and a tribute to the people who run Ghana’s economy. SMEs contribute over 70% of Ghana’s GDP and employ millions across every region. MTN is committed to providing MSMEs with the digital tools and commercial ecosystem needed to compete and grow beyond Ghana’s borders. We believe that when we empower SMEs, we empower Ghana’s future.” Ms. Mensah-Poku highlighted MTN’s ongoing, dedicated initiatives to accelerate SME growth, including MTN Adwumapa, MoMo for Business, the SME Accelerator Programme, and SME Business Clinics. According to her, these programmes are all designed to equip enterprises with robust digital tools, financial inclusion, and comprehensive business development support. Shri Manish Gupta, India’s High Commissioner to Ghana and the special guest of honour, praised Ghana’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening collaboration in trade, technology, and capacity development, announcing ambitious plans to double India-Ghana trade from USD 3 billion to USD 6 billion within five years. Kwesi Ofori Jnr, Head of SMEGA Ghana, expressed gratitude to MTN Ghana, sponsors, and partners for their consistent support. “Through this platform, many businesses have grown into regional and global brands. Together, we are building a stronger and more prosperous SME future.” He confirmed that more than 67 SMEs have benefited from digital and technical training through MTN’s partnership and announced new initiatives to expand Ghanaian SMEs’ presence in markets across India, China, and Europe. The highlight of the night was the recognition of Rita Aku-Shika Diabah, Chief Executive Officer of Yesli Ice, who was named Overall Best SME of the Year. Underscoring Yesli Ice’s excellence and innovation, Ms. Diabah also secured three additional awards: SME Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, Production Innovation, and Food and Beverage categories. In total, 21 other SMEs from across various industries were also recognized for their outstanding contributions to business innovation and growth at the 2025 SMEGA Awards. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Freddie Blay Laments Performance of Special Prosecutor, Praises Amidu’s Legacy
Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay, did not mince words as he expressed his disappointment with the current Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng. Instead, Blay reserved high praise for former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu, whom he described as a paragon of integrity and fairness. Reflecting on Amidu’s appointment, Blay recalled the initial skepticism that greeted the news, even within NPP ranks and at the cabinet level. “When Martin Amidu was appointed, there were some raised eyebrows—even within our own NPP circles and at the cabinet level, there were debates about the decision. But one thing was clear: many of us agreed that he was a man of integrity, fair-minded, and not vindictive,” he recounted. Blay went on to highlight Amidu’s impartiality and unwavering commitment to the law during his tenure as Special Prosecutor. “When he was convinced about a case, he would pursue it, but always within the bounds of the law. We all agreed it was good to have a neutral person, even someone with a political history on the other side,” Blay said, underscoring the importance of neutrality in the fight against corruption. The former NPP chairman attributed much of Amidu’s effectiveness to his independence and courage, noting, “As far as I could tell, he was performing admirably, even handling some very sensitive cases. He was not afraid to challenge the president when necessary. It was unfortunate when he resigned, and some of us regretted his departure. He could have made a significant impact in that role.” Turning his attention to the current Special Prosecutor, Blay did not hide his dissatisfaction with the results achieved thus far. He pointed out that, despite significant financial backing, the Office of the Special Prosecutor had yet to deliver tangible outcomes. “I am not entirely satisfied with the results of what is happening. I am not satisfied. A lot of money has been sent to that organisation. We have only heard quite a number of press conferences from him and chasing after schedules. A lot of smoke and no fire,” Blay remarked. Nevertheless, Blay reaffirmed his belief in the importance of the Office of the Special Prosecutor and urged the current administration to ensure that it fulfills its mandate with concrete achievements. His comments have reignited public discourse on the effectiveness of Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts and the need for strong, independent leadership in the fight against graft. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Security Forces Arrest 300 in Major Anti-Galamsey Swoop in Obuasi
In a sweeping crackdown on illegal mining, security forces made a decisive move in the Obuasi Municipality on Wednesday, arresting approximately 300 individuals suspected of engaging in galamsey operations. The joint operation, carried out by police and military personnel, targeted several communities notorious for their involvement in illegal mining activities, including Dadwen, Obuasi-Nhyiaeso, and Obuasi-Anwona. The large-scale raid was prompted by a recent attack on officials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and journalists, who had been carrying out anti-illegal mining duties in the area. Authorities acted swiftly, assembling a coordinated force to restore order and send a clear message about the government’s resolve to combat galamsey. Before the operation commenced, the Director-General in charge of Technical, COP Dr. Sayibu Pabi Gariba, addressed the assembled security team on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, outlining the mission’s objectives and emphasizing the importance of professionalism and restraint. After the successful operation, all 300 suspects were transported under heavy security to the Kumasi Police Depot, also known as the Police Training School in Patase. There, they will undergo screening and further investigation to determine their individual roles in the illegal mining activities. Authorities have indicated that those found culpable will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The swoop has been hailed as a significant step in the ongoing battle against illegal mining in Ghana, with many hoping it will deter future attacks on officials and signal a renewed commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tragedy at El-Wak: Military Recruitment Stampede Claims 6 Lives in Accra
What began as a day of hope ended in heartbreak at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. The stadium, usually abuzz with the excitement of sporting events, became the scene of tragedy during an ongoing military recruitment exercise, as a stampede claimed the lives of 6 young Ghanaians and left several others critically injured. Trouble began early in the day, as thousands of hopeful applicants surged toward the stadium’s gates, desperate for a chance to enlist in the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the crowd, far larger than anticipated, quickly overwhelmed security personnel. Jostling and shoving at narrow entry points soon erupted into chaos. Within minutes, the festive atmosphere gave way to panic, screams, and a frantic struggle for safety. By evening, the military confirmed that six people had died, but the death toll later rose to 6 as six more succumbed to their injuries. The bodies of the deceased were transported to the 37 Military Hospital morgue, while dozens of others, some in critical condition, were rushed to the emergency ward and Intensive Care Unit. Security forces moved swiftly to cordon off the stadium and block all major access roads, allowing rescue teams to work unimpeded. The tragic stampede occurred amidst an extended recruitment period for the Ghana Armed Forces. Originally set to close on October 31, 2025, the deadline had been extended by a week to accommodate applicants who had faced technical issues with the online portal. The extension, announced in a statement signed by Colonel Evelyn Ntiamoah Asamoah, Acting Director General of Public Relations, was intended to ensure fairness, but instead contributed to the overwhelming turnout that fateful morning. As news of the tragedy spread, questions mounted about crowd control and safety measures at large-scale recruitment events. Authorities have yet to issue a full statement on the incident, but preliminary reports suggest that inadequate crowd management and the sheer number of applicants played a significant role in the disaster. Investigations are expected to be launched to uncover the precise circumstances that led to the stampede and to prevent similar tragedies in future recruitment exercises. For now, the nation mourns the loss of twelve of its youth, victims of a system overwhelmed by demand, and of hopes that, for some, ended in heartbreak rather than a new beginning. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Dramatic Showdown at Aayalolo’s Kinbu Terminal
On Tuesday, November 11, 2025, a crisis loomed over Accra’s bustling Central Business District as tensions boiled over at the Kinbu terminal of the Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service. The day started like any other, but it soon spiraled into chaos, threatening to grind the city’s vital public transport system to a halt. It began as a standoff between Aayalolo workers and a group of individuals alleged to be party supporters and associates of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA). For two days, these groups had grappled for control over the terminal’s lucrative parking operations. On that fateful Tuesday, the situation escalated when the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, arrived at the terminal with his entourage, determined to assert the AMA’s authority. Eyewitnesses recalled a tense atmosphere that quickly gave way to violence. Members of the Mayor’s entourage, undeterred by the presence of police officers and GAPTE officials, allegedly assaulted several Aayalolo staff. One staffer’s only “offence,” witnesses told Classfmonline.com, was responding to the Mayor’s threat to tow parked buses by saying management would simply bring more buses. Another staff member was beaten, his shirt torn, and a driver was slapped for uttering the phrase “massa massa”, a remark considered disrespectful by the Mayor’s guard. The confrontation reached its peak when the Mayor reportedly ordered the arrest of an Aayalolo staff member, accusing him of obstructing operations. Amidst the chaos, witnesses claimed the Mayor made politically charged remarks, referencing the previous government and questioning the current management’s right to reclaim the terminal under the NDC administration. The assaults pushed Aayalolo drivers to the brink. Fearing for their safety, they threatened to park their buses and withdraw their services, a move that would have stranded thousands of commuters and paralyzed Accra’s transport system. Enter Awudu Dawuda Esq., the Acting Managing Director of the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE). Sensing the gravity of the situation, Dawuda intervened swiftly. He met with the aggrieved drivers, listened to their concerns, and assured them that management was committed to their safety and would seek justice for the assaulted staff. After some hesitation, the drivers, buoyed by management’s assurances, agreed to return to work, narrowly averting a citywide transport disruption. But the incident has left deep scars. Public outrage has grown, with calls for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the AMA officials and the alleged politicisation of public transport. Observers say the tumultuous events at Kinbu highlight the urgent need for clear policies governing the management and control of Aayalolo terminals. Only then can Accra’s commuters be assured of smooth, uninterrupted service—and workers of their safety and dignity