Parliamentary Energy Committee Visits Accra Plains Depot for Oversight Engagement
The Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy has paid a working visit to the Accra Plains Depot (APD) of BOSTEnergies, reaffirming Parliament’s commitment to oversight within Ghana’s vital energy sector. The visit is part of the legislature’s ongoing efforts to assess the performance and operations of key institutions in the downstream petroleum and energy supply chain. During the engagement, BOSTEnergies’ Managing Director, Afetsi Awoonor, and Deputy Managing Director, Nat Salifu Acheampong, presented the company’s 2026 strategic work plan and provided the Committee with updates on current operational activities at the depot. Members of Parliament were then taken on a guided tour of the Accra Plains Depot, where they received briefings on storage operations and the infrastructure that underpins the country’s fuel distribution network. The visit emphasized BOSTEnergies’ dedication to transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency, reflecting its critical role in ensuring the long-term security and stability of Ghana’s energy supply chain. The Parliamentary Committee indicated that it will continue similar oversight visits to other key energy facilities across the country, fulfilling its mandate to safeguard Ghana’s energy interests. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
National Identification Authority Announces Temporary Suspension of Services for System Update
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has issued a public notice regarding a temporary halt to its services at all district offices nationwide. The disruption comes as the authority’s Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) team undertakes critical system updates designed to bolster the efficiency and security of the Ghana Card registration and identity services. According to the NIA, the suspension affects all district offices across the country and is part of a comprehensive upgrade to enhance the protection of citizens’ data and the overall reliability of the identification system. The update process is expected to be completed by May 10, 2026, after which normal operations will resume. In an official statement signed by Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, Head of the Corporate Affairs Directorate, the NIA extended its apologies for any inconvenience caused by the downtime. The authority assured the public that full services will be restored as soon as the system updates are finalized. Citizens and residents seeking registration or other identity services are advised to plan accordingly, as regular operations are scheduled to resume nationwide on May 10, 2026. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MP Ablakwa Applauds Progress on Key Eastern Corridor Road Project
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu and Minister for Foreign Affairs, has voiced his satisfaction with the ongoing construction work on the Dorfor Adidome–Asikuma and Juapong–Asikuma sections of the Eastern Corridor Road. His remarks come after a recent inspection of the project, which is set to transform connectivity across the Volta, Eastern, and Greater Accra Regions. The MP, whose North Tongu constituency encompasses about 70% of the road stretch, expressed excitement at the opportunity to supervise the progress firsthand. The road’s completion is expected to boost economic activity in the region by linking communities and facilitating the movement of goods and people. Ablakwa highlighted the strategic importance of the roads as approach routes for the upcoming construction of the Volivo Bridge across the Volta Lake, a project that will further enhance access and opportunities for the area. Timely completion of these sections will allow contractors to begin work on the bridge, opening up the region for agriculture, tourism, and other economic ventures. The project, valued at an estimated $90 million, includes modifications to raise the road’s elevation, ensuring its resilience against flooding during heavy rains. Funded in part by a loan facility from the African Development Bank and executed by a Chinese contractor, the Eastern Corridor Road project stands as a critical investment in Ghana’s infrastructure, promising to unlock new prospects for the communities it serves. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation Officially Welcomes Carlos Queiroz as Ghana’s New Head Coach
In a move aimed at bolstering Ghana’s football ambitions, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has officially welcomed renowned football tactician Carlos Queiroz. The country is looking to strengthen its technical direction as it prepares for upcoming international competitions. Coach Queiroz, known for his experience at the highest levels of world football, is expected to meet the media soon after his arrival. During the press conference, he will share his vision for Ghana’s national team and his approach to guiding the Black Stars to new heights. Ghana, celebrated for its passionate football culture, continues to hold high expectations for the Black Stars. Fans recall the team’s historic run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, where Ghana reached the quarter-final, a feat that set the bar for future aspirations. With a squad rich in talent, featuring both emerging stars and seasoned players, all eyes are now on Queiroz to see if he can build the right balance and instil the discipline needed for success at the international level. The appointment of Queiroz marks a renewed push for Ghana to make a strong impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As anticipation grows, fans and stakeholders alike are looking forward to a revitalised Black Stars squad capable of delivering global success. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Galamsey Jeopardizes Ghana’s Future, Warns Pentecost Media Director
Ghana is facing a crisis that threatens its very survival, according to Pastor Dr. Felix Klutse, Media Ministry Director of the Church of Pentecost. Speaking out against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, Pastor Dr. Klutse described the practice as an existential danger to the nation’s development, warning that its consequences reach far beyond environmental destruction. His warning follows renewed concern from Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, who highlighted the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s water bodies during the State of the Church Address at the 48th General Conference on Wednesday, April 22. Apostle Nyamekye lamented that the contamination of rivers and streams is already affecting core religious practices such as water baptism in mining communities. “The extensive pollution of water bodies due to illegal mining has hampered traditional water baptism in some mining communities, necessitating a shift to synthetic rubber pools in several districts to carry out the ordinance,” he explained. Pastor Dr. Klutse reinforced the Church’s stance, describing galamsey as economic sabotage against future generations. “Galamsey is not just an evil canker but it is also an economic sabotage against the future generation. Because a nation that destroys its water bodies is digging its own grave. We believe strongly that water is Ghana’s real gold and once lost, no policy can mine it back,” he said. Pastor Dr. Klutse emphasized that water is one of Ghana’s most vital natural resources, and once polluted, it cannot be restored. He further noted that the effects of galamsey are being felt within the Church itself, particularly in the administration of water baptism—a key ordinance among Pentecostal and charismatic churches. Due to concerns over health and safety, the Church has been forced to abandon the use of polluted rivers in favor of synthetic pools for baptisms. “Water baptism is one of the ordinances of the Church of Pentecost and other Pentecostal and charismatic churches not just in Ghana but other parts of the world, and we believe strongly that when you win a soul, the soul has to be baptized by immersion,” Pastor Dr. Klutse explained. “That doesn’t mean that what others do we are condemning it, but we believe strongly in baptism by immersion, and it is worthy to note that when baptizing these souls that we’ve won, their health is very paramount so they don’t end up contracting any disease.” He concluded that as long as Ghana’s rivers remain polluted by illegal mining, the Church must continue to adapt to protect the well-being of its members, even as it calls on authorities and communities to take decisive action against galamsey. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tensions Rise as Mthatha Residents Prepare for Protest Over Jobs for Locals
On the morning of Thursday, April 23, the streets of Mthatha, South Africa, are expected to fill with voices demanding change. Local residents are planning a protest, set to begin at 9:00 a.m. and conclude by 11:00 a.m., over a growing sentiment that foreign nationals are taking jobs meant for South Africans. The demonstration, led by local South Africans, aims to pressure authorities to prioritize employment opportunities for citizens. Many in the community feel that an influx of foreign workers, particularly from Ghana, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe, has reduced job prospects for locals. Dr. Yirenyi Gyekye Darko, Chairman of the Ghanaian Community in Mthatha, has been working behind the scenes to ensure that the protest remains peaceful. “I spoke to one of the station commanders, and he confirmed that there will be a peaceful demonstration. The police are taking precautionary measures to ensure everything remains under control,” Dr. Darko explained. Despite reassurances from the police, Dr. Darko has urged Ghanaians living in Mthatha to be cautious. “We have asked our people to stay indoors and not open their shops until about midday, when the situation is expected to normalise,” he said, emphasizing the importance of safety for the Ghanaian community. Dr. Darko further clarified that the root of the protest lies in demands for the South African government to give employment preference to locals. “The demonstrators are calling for priority to be given to South Africans. Their main concern is that foreigners have taken their jobs,” he said. As Mthatha prepares for the protest, residents and foreign nationals alike wait anxiously, hoping that the demonstration will remain peaceful and that a solution can be found to address the community’s concerns. Source: Apexnewsgh.com