MTN Global Graduate Programme Develops Over 500 Leaders Since Inception
MTN Ghana has successfully graduated 80 young professionals from its 2025 Graduate Development Program, an initiative designed by the telecommunications company to promote the inclusion of women in the business. The graduation ceremony, held on November 20, 2025 at the Marriott Hotel in Accra, brought together participants from across MTN’s African markets. Abdallah Ibrahim, the Acting Chief Human Resource Officer for MTN Ghana, emphasized MTN’s intentional strategy to increase the number of women in its workforce. “We have leveraged the Graduate Development Programme to drive female representation within the company. About 60% of the graduate delegates are women and a key initiative in our quest to reach 50% female representation by 2030,” he stated. Abdallah confirmed that this intentional approach is already transforming the organization, highlighting the notable increase in the overall representation of women in recent years. “Since we began this journey to increase female representation at MTN Ghana, we have added approximately 5% more females to the workforce since we started monitoring our progress in 2020. Today, we stand at about 43% representation of females within our organization,” he said. Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah, Chief Executive Officer of the Telecoms Chamber, commended MTN for its dedication to developing African talent, especially the large number of women in the graduating class, in her keynote speech. “It’s exciting to see that over 60% of today’s graduates are women,” she commented, urging the graduates to stay true to themselves in a competitive digital age. Kagiso Malepe, Manager of the MTN Global Graduate Programme, explained that one of the main challenges and opportunities is bringing together individuals from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds under a common identity. “Our biggest task is harmonizing diverse perspectives and helping participants immerse themselves in MTN’s organizational culture. With MTN operating across multiple markets, the message of one culture, one MTN is fundamental,” he said. The 80 graduates, representing 18 countries across Africa, received certificates and are expected to take roles within MTN that support MTN’s goal of developing future African leaders in technology, digital services, and business innovation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
ECOWAS Council of Ministers unanimously endorsed President John Dramani Mahama
The ECOWAS Council of Ministers has unanimously endorsed President John Dramani Mahama as the sole candidate from the region for the Chairpersonship of the African Union (AU) when the rotating chairmanship reaches West Africa in 2027. The Council’s recommendation, made during its ninety-fifth ordinary session in Abuja, will be forwarded to the Authority of Heads of State and Government for adoption on Sunday, December 14, 2025. In a statement issued on Friday, December 12, 2025, ECOWAS expressed gratitude to member states for supporting Ghana’s candidacy, highlighting the country’s contributions to the region and its international standing.Ghana travel guide “Determined to work in a concerted manner to support the candidates of ECOWAS Member States or their nationals in international organizations, including the African Union, to ensure that the interests of ECOWAS continue to be promoted and protected. “Desiring to adopt a common position for effective support and voting in favour of the election of the Republic of Ghana to the Chairmanship of the African Union in 2027,” part of the statement read. The Council noted that the endorsement aligns with ECOWAS’ commitment to promoting the interests of the region in international and continental organisations. It reaffirmed its determination to support candidates from member states to strengthen ECOWAS’ influence and presence in regional and global bodies, including the African Union. The recommendation urges the Authority of Heads of State and Government to formally adopt the declaration supporting Ghana’s candidacy for the AU chairmanship in 2027. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Considers Sending English Teachers to Colombia in Bid to Deepen Bilateral Ties
The government of Ghana has announced plans to explore a new partnership with the Republic of Colombia that could see Ghanaian English teachers sent to support language instruction in South America. The initiative was revealed by Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang during a courtesy call from Colombian Vice President Francia Elena Márquez Mina, who is visiting Ghana for three days to strengthen relations between the two nations. During the meeting, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the success of the current programme in which Colombian educators teach Spanish in Ghana. She suggested that this collaboration could be expanded so that Ghanaian teachers would have the opportunity to offer English lessons in Colombian schools. “Ghana particularly values Colombia’s enduring support for the teaching of the Spanish language in Ghana. It’s a programme that has significantly enhanced institutional capacity and deepened cross-cultural understanding,” the Vice President noted. She referenced the recent graduation ceremony for the programme’s 12th edition, held on December 11, as further evidence of its impact. “I was asking that we expand that path to send teachers of English from Ghana to Colombia, too,” she said. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang also spoke about a range of ongoing cooperation agreements between Ghana and Colombia, including joint projects in immigration, agriculture, education, political consultations, air services, technical cooperation, sports, and youth development. She called for greater efforts to build on these frameworks and deepen the partnership. “Our two countries have signed agreements and are undertaking joint projects in several areas,” she remarked, underscoring the breadth of collaboration already underway. Looking to the future, the Vice President emphasized the importance of exploring additional opportunities, particularly in trade, cultural exchange, and tourism, to boost economic growth for both countries. She noted Colombia’s expertise in biodiversity-driven innovation, creative industries, and agro-processing, while highlighting Ghana’s dynamic investment landscape and expanding markets in agriculture, energy, and services. As part of the visit, the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) hosted a business seminar for the Colombian delegation, further advancing efforts to promote investment and deepen cooperation between the two nations. With both governments expressing a commitment to broaden educational and economic ties, the proposed teacher exchange programme stands as a symbol of the growing partnership and mutual support between Ghana and Colombia. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
High Court Sets New Condition in Daddy Lumba Funeral Dispute: Family Ordered to Pay GH₵2 Million or Allow Burial to Proceed
The ongoing legal drama surrounding the burial of highlife legend Daddy Lumba took a dramatic turn today, as the Accra High Court issued a new directive to his maternal family amidst the heated dispute over funeral arrangements. With the clock ticking toward Daddy Lumba’s scheduled funeral on Saturday, December 13, the court has ordered the late musician’s maternal relatives, who are contesting the burial plans, to deposit GH₵2 million by 2:00 p.m. today. The amount, the court explained, is meant to cover funeral-related expenses already incurred, in case the burial is later halted by a final court decision. This latest order comes after an earlier injunction stopped family head Kofi Owusu from organizing the funeral and prevented Transitions Funeral Home from releasing Daddy Lumba’s body. Lawyers for the maternal family objected strongly to the new directive. They argued that the court lacked jurisdiction to change its earlier injunction without a formal motion on notice. The legal team pointed out that the injunction was granted at 10:00 a.m. today and that no application for variation had been served, making the sudden order for a massive deposit both procedurally and logistically impossible. Raising GH₵2 million in under two hours, they added, was an insurmountable challenge. The applicants asked that the original injunction remain in place, proposing instead to sign an undertaking to pay funeral costs if required after the final resolution of the case. Their lawyers also cautioned that the court’s swift change in orders could send a misleading message to the public about the case’s status. On the other side, legal counsel for the respondents insisted that the applicants should cover the significant costs already incurred for the funeral, including invitations to dignitaries and contractor payments. They argued that the GH₵2 million figure was not enough, suggesting that the amount should be raised above GH₵5 million. They further urged the court to shorten the payment window and to authorize the release of Daddy Lumba’s body if the payment was not made, provided that all outstanding funeral home fees were settled. The respondents also sought clarification regarding the Daddy Lumba LBG Foundation account, as an earlier court order had directed that funds for the funeral be kept separate from the foundation’s finances. Ruling on the matter, the court clarified that no order was currently being made regarding the foundation or the second respondent. However, it held firm on the GH₵2 million condition: if the applicants fail to pay by the 2:00 p.m. deadline, Transitions Funeral Home is to release the body and allow the funeral to proceed, as long as outstanding fees are paid. With the court’s orders now clear, the stage is set for either a dramatic last-minute payment or the continuation of Daddy Lumba’s funeral as originally planned—a conclusion watched closely by fans and family alike as the legacy of a music icon hangs in the balance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Outcry as BECE Fees Rise by 24%: Private Schools Lead Protest
The Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) has called on the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to immediately reverse its planned 24.24% increase in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) registration fee. The fee is set to rise from GHC282.35 in 2025 to GHC350.82 in 2026, a move GNAPS said threatens the educational progress of hundreds of candidates in private schools across the country. In a statement issued on Thursday, December 11, 2025, GNAPS urged WAEC to halt the hike and engage in broad consultations with stakeholders, including the association, to determine a fair and justifiable fee. The group also called on the Ministry of Education and the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education to intervene to protect economically disadvantaged children from being excluded from Basic 9 education. “Swift action is essential to maintain the trust and goodwill of parents, private schools, and the broader education community in the government’s commitment to affordable, accessible, and equitable education,” the statement said. GNAPS noted that while WAEC justified last year’s fee increases by citing inflation, exchange rates, port charges, and fuel costs, national economic indicators have recently stabilised. For instance, inflation fell from 8% in October 2025 to 6.3% in November 2025, while the Cedi has remained relatively stable. GNAPS described this year’s hike as “economically indefensible” and “punitive.” The Association also criticised WAEC for failing to consult the non-state education sector, whose candidates bear the brunt of the fee increases. According to GNAPS, such unilateral decisions undermine principles of transparency, collaboration, and sensitivity to the socioeconomic realities faced by parents and schools. Over the past five years, GNAPS has warned that rising BECE registration fees have increasingly hindered Junior High School completion rates, particularly in lower-income communities. The Association stressed that excessive fees risk forcing hardworking parents to withdraw their children from school. GNAPS affirmed its commitment to protecting the educational rights of disadvantaged children and expressed readiness to engage WAEC, the Ministry of Education, and other stakeholders to reverse the planned fee increase. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Driving Schools Chairman Warns: Lack of Formal Training Fuelling Road Crashes in Ghana
Emmanuel Danso, Chairman of the Ghana National Association of Driving Schools (GNADS), has sounded a stark warning about the dangers posed by Ghana’s informal approach to driver education. Speaking to the media December 12, Danso revealed a startling statistic: only 10% of drivers in Ghana have learned to drive through accredited driving schools. Describing the figure as “staggering,” Danso pointed to it as a major factor behind the rising number of preventable road accidents across the country. “Driving is like a profession, and there are certain dynamics you should understand,” he explained, stressing that the technical skills and discipline required to drive safely can only be gained through structured, formal training. According to Danso, the vast majority of Ghanaian drivers acquire their skills informally—often learning from friends or family, without the benefit of proper instruction. This, he said, leaves them unprepared for the complexities and responsibilities of being on the road, leading to countless avoidable crashes and fatalities. “Ghana’s road crashes remain predictable, preventable, and avoidable,” he lamented. “But the country continues to record high fatalities because many drivers lack the knowledge and discipline that proper training provides.” He warned that without a nationwide commitment to improving driver education, the crisis on Ghana’s roads would only persist. Danso commended the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) for establishing a roadmap toward responsible licensing, but emphasized that the onus is now on driving schools and drivers themselves to align with these standards. “DVLA is doing well, but it is left for us to align with them and do training holistically,” he said. He projected that with a national push for formal driver education, Ghana could see a dramatic drop in road crashes within just a few years. “If we do it in two to five years, we will reduce accidents from four digits to three digits,” he asserted. Calling the surge in road accidents a “canker,” Danso urged all stakeholders, including drivers, regulators, and the wider public, to unite in tackling the problem. “Let us all come together and fight this cancer. It is possible,” he assured, expressing hope that with the right commitment, Ghana’s roads can become safer for everyone. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Court Halts Daddy Lumba’s Burial Amid Family Dispute, Orders New Stakeholder Meeting
The Accra High Court has issued an injunction halting the burial of legendary musician Daddy Lumba, following a petition from his maternal family. The legal move comes amid a heated dispute over funeral arrangements and the management of funeral funds. In the ruling delivered this week, the court restrained Kofi Owusu, the family head (Abusuapanyin) and first respondent, from organizing the burial until the substantive issues are resolved. Additionally, Transitions Funeral Home, the third respondent, has been barred from releasing Daddy Lumba’s body for burial. The judge, after reviewing affidavits from both sides, acknowledged that the late musician’s immediate family had been sidelined in the funeral planning process. While recognizing that the family head traditionally leads burial preparations, the court emphasized that this authority must be exercised in close consultation with the immediate family. The court also noted that postponing the burial could result in higher costs, but stressed that upholding due process and respecting family dynamics took precedence. As part of its directives, the court ordered Kofi Owusu to convene a stakeholder meeting within three weeks to agree on a new burial date that satisfies all parties involved. Furthermore, the judge instructed that all funds raised for Daddy Lumba’s funeral be kept separate from the accounts of the Daddy Lumba Memorial Foundation, ensuring transparency and accountability. The applicants were required to file an affidavit with the court registrar documenting compliance. This legal battle follows the passing of Daddy Lumba on July 26, 2025, at the age of 60. The dispute between his maternal relatives and the family head has roots in longstanding Akan customs, which grant significant authority to the maternal lineage in burial matters. As both sides seek to honor the late icon, the court’s decision aims to ensure that tradition, transparency, and unity prevail in laying Daddy Lumba to rest. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Urges African Leaders to Pursue Economic Independence Through Value Addition and Regional Trade
At the vibrant Jamhuri Day celebrations in Kenya on Friday, December 12, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama delivered a powerful call to action to African leaders, urging them to prioritize economic independence and prosperity for the continent’s people. Standing before a gathering of dignitaries and citizens, President Mahama reminded the audience of Africa’s journey to political freedom. “Our forebearers won for us independence. It is the responsibility of our current African leadership to win economic independence and prosperity for our people,” he declared, his voice carrying both pride and urgency. Addressing the persistent challenges Africa faces in the global economic system, President Mahama lamented the continent’s longstanding role as a mere supplier of unprocessed raw materials while relying on imported finished goods. He stressed that this pattern must change if Africa is to achieve true prosperity. “The time has come for us to add value to our exports. The time has come to claim a fairer share of our natural resource endowment. The time has come to provide transparent and accountable leadership,” he stated, calling on African governments to embrace transformation and good governance. President Mahama also highlighted the continent’s greatest asset, its youth. He encouraged leaders to harness the creativity and energy of Africa’s young people, channeling their potential into productive industries and innovation. Central to his message was the importance of strengthening trade within Africa’s borders. “We must increase trade among ourselves, and we recommend a trade protocol within the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he urged, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration to boost economic growth. As the celebrations continued, President Mahama’s words resonated with hope and determination, a vision of an Africa that moves beyond dependence, builds wealth from within, and secures a brighter future for generations to come. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
2026 FIFA World Cup Chief Safety Officer Advises Fans: “Bring Your Passion, Leave the Pyro”
As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, GB Jones, the tournament’s Chief Safety and Security Officer, has issued a timely reminder to football fans across the globe: safety comes first. Speaking at a forum organised by the Africa Center of the Atlantic Council, Jones urged supporters to familiarize themselves with stadium safety regulations well ahead of next year’s event, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Jones highlighted that while the World Cup is renowned for its colourful celebrations and energetic crowds, certain popular fan items will not be allowed inside stadiums. “With respect to what to bring to the World Cup, we want you to bring your passion, but leave your pyro,” he emphasized, referencing the ban on fireworks, smoke devices, and other pyrotechnic items. “We don’t want the fireworks with the smoke or the pyrotechnicians in the stadium. But we want to embrace the passion.” He explained that these restrictions are not meant to diminish fan culture but to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone in attendance. “Please understand our prohibited items include those which will be listed on our website or on the ticket information. Know what you can and cannot bring to the stadium,” Jones advised, encouraging fans to check FIFA’s official website and ticketing platforms for a comprehensive list of banned items to avoid any last-minute disappointment. Despite the new safety measures, Jones was quick to reassure fans that FIFA remains committed to supporting vibrant, fan-driven energy. “We want to ensure that you can get all your items into all the stadiums. Fans should bring what will help them celebrate, but within the limits set for safety,” he concluded. As the world counts down to the kickoff of football’s biggest event, the message from the top is clear: let the passion flow, but always put safety first. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Sam George Applauds Cyber Security Authority for Successful Crackdown on Cyber Fraud
The fight against cybercrime in Ghana reached another milestone as the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mr. Sam George, publicly commended the Cyber Security Authority for yet another successful operation against cyber fraudsters. Yesterday’s operation, which was spearheaded by Director-General Divine Selase Agbeti and the Authority’s dedicated Law Enforcement Unit, saw a coordinated effort with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC). Together, these agencies joined forces to dismantle a network of cybercriminals, striking a significant blow against online fraud. In an official statement following the operation, Minister Sam George expressed his pride in the team’s commitment and effectiveness. He emphasized that such coordinated actions are essential, not only to protect ordinary Ghanaians from falling victim to online scams but also to preserve the nation’s international reputation in an increasingly digital world. “The message is loud and clear: we will come after anyone engaging in cyber-based crime, whether against Ghanaians or any other person,” Minister George declared. “For God and Country.” With operations like these, Ghana continues to strengthen its resolve in the digital age, sending a strong signal to cybercriminals that their actions will not go unchecked. Source: Apexnewsgh.com