National Ambulance Service Faces Fleet Crisis as Over 120 Ambulances Sit Idle
The National Ambulance Service is grappling with significant operational challenges, as 127 of its 318 ambulances are currently out of service, according to Martin Ewuah Amoah, Clinical Auditor for the Southern Zone. Mr. Amoah revealed that only 191 ambulances across the Service’s 318 stations are currently functional. He explained that the high number of out-of-commission vehicles is mainly due to the five-year lifespan of ambulances, making timely replacements essential to avoid escalating maintenance issues and ensure a reliable emergency response fleet. This disclosure comes in the wake of public outcry following the tragic death of 29-year-old Charles Amissah, an engineer with Promasidor Ghana Limited. Mr. Amissah was the victim of a hit-and-run accident at the Circle Overpass in Accra on February 6, 2026. Although Emergency Medical Technicians managed to stabilise him at the scene, he was reportedly turned away by three major hospitals, Ridge Hospital, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, and the Police Hospital, over a span of nearly three hours due to a lack of available beds. He later died from his injuries. The incident has renewed calls for urgent reforms and investments in Ghana’s emergency healthcare system, with many highlighting the critical need for regular ambulance fleet renewal and improved hospital capacity to prevent such tragedies in the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Cement Prices Under Threat as Port Congestion Delays Clinker Discharge
Ghana’s construction sector is bracing for a potential hike in cement prices as severe congestion at the nation’s ports continues to stall the discharge of clinker, a vital ingredient in cement production. Industry insiders warn that the prolonged delays, forcing vessels to wait up to 20 days to berth, are leading to spiraling demurrage costs that could soon be passed on to consumers. The urgent situation prompted an emergency meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026, convened by Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, alongside Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe. Cement manufacturers and key industry players gathered to address the operational gridlock that has left clinker shipments stranded for weeks, straining the sector’s finances. Bishop Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, CEO of the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers Ghana (COCMAG), painted a stark picture, describing the industry as financially “leaking” due to mounting demurrage charges. Manufacturers cautioned that unless immediate action is taken, the burden of these escalating costs will inevitably affect cement prices in the local market. While acknowledging ongoing dredging works at the port, industry players called for urgent interim solutions, such as temporary access to additional berths and the use of alternative berths for non-dust-producing raw materials like gypsum and slag. Minister Nikpe responded to these concerns by assuring stakeholders that the government is accelerating dredging activities to expand berth capacity. He explained that, with completion expected by the end of June, the port will soon be able to accommodate vessels over 20,000 tonnes—more than doubling current capacity and significantly reducing wait times. Partial relief is anticipated within the next two weeks as dredging progresses around Berth 14. Minister Ofosu-Adjare emphasized that port inefficiencies directly inflate production costs and, ultimately, market prices. “If we want good prices, we must also perform our part of the bargain to ensure that production costs remain efficient,” she urged, highlighting the broader need to address structural bottlenecks. AGI President, Pharm. Kofi Nsiah-Poku, praised the Ministers for their rapid intervention and collaborative stance, expressing hope that both immediate and long-term measures will restore efficiency and ease cost pressures for the industry. Still, until these improvements are fully in place, stakeholders warn that the ongoing port congestion and rising demurrage fees could drive cement prices higher, leaving consumers to bear the cost if the crisis is not resolved swiftly. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Special Prosecutor Probes Massive Palm Oil Diversion Scandal, Uncovers Wider Revenue Losses at Borders
A sweeping investigation has been launched by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) into a suspected multi-million cedi corruption scheme involving the diversion of fifty 20-foot containers of palm oil, valued at GH₵25.8 million, originally declared as transit goods to Burkina Faso. According to an OSP statement released on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the containers were unlawfully diverted into Ghana’s local market without payment of required duties, costing the state an estimated GH₵10.5 million in lost tax revenue. Preliminary findings point to the involvement of Customs officers, National Security operatives, and clearing agents in orchestrating the illicit operation. The OSP revealed that the probe stems from an intelligence-led operation in November 2025, which flagged serious irregularities in how the shipment was handled and cleared. As investigations continue, the Office has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public funds and ensuring accountability in the management of imports and transit goods. In a related operation, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) intercepted 18 articulated trucks, also declared for transit to Niger, at the Akanu Border. Post-inspection checks exposed discrepancies in declared values, tariff classifications, and weights, raising the estimated revenue risk from GH₵2.6 million to over GH₵85 million. Notably, the trucks were allegedly moving without the mandatory customs escort, a grave violation of transit procedures. The Special Prosecutor’s office has stressed its unwavering focus on safeguarding the public purse and upholding integrity in public administration as the investigation unfolds. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East NDC Executives Console Family of Late Bongo DCE
On the morning of Monday, February 23, 2026, a solemn delegation of regional and constituency executives of the Upper East National Democratic Congress (NDC), accompanied by Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), gathered at the home of the late Joseph Akasaka Abaa to offer their condolences. Led by the region’s two vice chairmen, the Bongo Constituency Chairman, and the Dean of MMDCEs, the group visited the grieving family to mourn the sudden loss of Hon. Akasaka Abaa, who was not only the District Chief Executive for Bongo but also served as the Bongo Constituency Secretary. During the visit, party leaders and government representatives assured the family of their unwavering support in arranging a dignified and honorable burial for the late DCE. The show of solidarity was highlighted in a heartfelt Facebook post by Jonathan Abdullah Salifu, the Upper East Regional Communication Officer, who emphasized the party’s commitment to standing by the bereaved family during this difficult time. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Furious Over Customs Truck Diversion Scandal, Vows Swift Action
A tense atmosphere gripped the corridors of power after President John Dramani Mahama was briefed on a high-profile customs enforcement operation that intercepted articulated trucks suspected of being part of a transit diversion and revenue evasion scheme at Ghana’s borders. The operation, led by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), targeted trucks declared as carrying transit goods from Akanu and bound for Niger via Kulungugu. The investigation uncovered troubling breaches, including the failure to provide the mandatory customs human escort, fuelling suspicions of internal complicity. Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, recounted on the Citi Breakfast Show how the President’s anger was palpable: “When we returned from the border, the President was waiting for us for feedback. He was so upset, and there is no way anybody involved in this is going to be treated with kid gloves.” Mr. Ampem stressed that the government would not tolerate any compromise by customs enforcement officers, who are entrusted with protecting Ghana’s borders and safeguarding national revenue. The message was clear: those found culpable would face sanctions, while officers who demonstrated integrity would be recognized and rewarded. “We want to send a very strong signal that our customs officers have the responsibility to ensure revenue and protect our borders. So, they should not be complicit in this,” Mr. Ampem stated. He further acknowledged that not all customs officers were involved in the alleged wrongdoing. Some, he noted, played a crucial role in uncovering the irregularities. “We want to reward good behaviours of customs officers and punish bad behaviours,” he added. As investigations continue, the government has pledged to intensify border enforcement and close revenue loopholes, ensuring that individual accountability is established and the integrity of Ghana’s customs operations is restored. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Social Protection Platform Raises Alarm Over Delayed Payments to Thousands of Vulnerable Ghanaians
A chorus of concern is rising as the Civil Society Platform for Social Protection calls urgent attention to the government’s prolonged delay in disbursing funds to nearly 100,000 beneficiaries of Ghana’s Labour-Intensive Public Works (LIPW) and Productive Inclusion (PI/CLASS) programmes. This warning comes at a time when, despite the country’s recent economic gains, highlighted by a drop in inflation to 3.8% in January 2026, thousands of vulnerable households remain in distress as they await overdue benefits. For many, these programmes are a vital lifeline, offering both immediate survival support and opportunities to escape poverty. The consequences of the delays are already being felt: disrupted livelihoods, collapsing small businesses, mounting debts, and a pervasive sense of frustration and hopelessness among beneficiaries. According to the Civil Society Platform, the numbers are stark: 51,000 Productive Inclusion beneficiaries have been waiting for their grants since February 2025. 43,000 LIPW participants have yet to receive wages for their manual labour. The government owes GHS 42.5 million to LIPW beneficiaries alone. The Platform is urging the government to act without delay by releasing the outstanding payments, prioritising funding for programmes targeting extreme poverty, and maintaining transparent public communication. They stress that prompt action is crucial to safeguarding the integrity of Ghana’s social protection system and restoring hope for those who need it most. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Deputy Energy Minister Addresses Parliament on Rural Electrification and Power Stability
On Friday, February 20, 2026, the floor of Ghana’s Parliament was abuzz with questions about the nation’s energy future. Deputy Minister for Energy, Richard Gyan-Mensah, stood before lawmakers to address pressing concerns over rural electrification, grid expansion, and the stability of power supply. Representing the Minister for Energy, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, Mr. Gyan-Mensah detailed the Ministry’s ongoing initiatives to bring electricity to underserved communities and to strengthen the country’s power infrastructure. Members of Parliament sought updates on how far the government had come in expanding electricity access, what measures were being introduced to make the grid more reliable, and what steps were underway to stabilize power supply for homes and businesses across Ghana. In response, the Deputy Minister reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to accelerating rural electrification projects. He highlighted efforts to expand transmission networks and reinforce distribution systems, critical steps aimed at reducing outages and improving service delivery nationwide. Mr. Gyan-Mensah emphasized that these efforts are not just about powering homes, but about ensuring equitable access to electricity for all, particularly those living in rural and peri-urban areas. These initiatives, he stressed, are vital to the government’s broader national development plans. The Ministry, he concluded, will continue to prioritize infrastructure investments and policy reforms to fortify Ghana’s energy sector and drive economic growth for years to come. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
CDM Warns of Generational Education Crisis Amid Teacher Shortages
Ghana’s education system stands at a crossroads as the Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) raises an urgent alarm about the nation’s deepening teacher shortage. In a statement released this week, the advocacy group cautioned that the situation, if left unchecked, could trigger a generational catastrophe for Ghana’s children. Drawing on independent assessments, CDM revealed the potential scale of the crisis: learning losses could soar to 64 percent in arithmetic and 18 percent in reading, putting more than 1.2 million children at risk of falling into learning poverty. “This is a looming generational tragedy that no responsible government should tolerate,” the conveners declared, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The group’s concern was further fuelled by the government’s silence on teacher recruitment timelines following the 2026 Budget presentation. CDM criticized the lack of transparency, noting that the absence of a clear plan has stirred anxiety among unemployed trained teachers and parents across the country. “What is most disturbing is the government’s persistent silence on teacher recruitment timelines,” the group emphasized. “Education is not a privilege; it is a constitutional right, and its continued denial to millions of Ghanaian children is unacceptable in a democratic society.” To address the crisis, CDM called for the Minister for Education to brief Parliament within 30 days and to provide quarterly progress reports, insisting that only urgent, transparent action can avert a national education disaster. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ministry of Education Vows Swift Action After Student Violence Videos Go Viral
It was a day of shock and concern as disturbing videos began to circulate on social media, allegedly showing violent acts involving students from two schools in Ghana’s Central Region. The scenes quickly drew the attention of the Ministry of Education, prompting a strong response. Deputy Minister for Education, Clement Abas Apaak, signed a statement denouncing the acts as completely unacceptable. The Ministry assured the nation that immediate steps would be taken to address the situation. “The culprits and perpetrators can expect the most severe sanctions,” the statement warned, leaving no doubt about the seriousness with which the Ministry viewed the incident. In response to the viral videos, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) was ordered to launch an urgent investigation. A crucial meeting was scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on February 23, 2026, at the GES headquarters in Accra, bringing together the Central Regional Director, district directors from the affected areas, and the heads of the implicated schools. As the investigation unfolds, the Ministry reaffirms its unwavering commitment to discipline, safety, and order in all of Ghana’s educational institutions. The public was assured that appropriate measures would be implemented once the facts were clear, demonstrating that student welfare remains a top priority. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NorthLite Solar Limited Hosts Cocktail Engagement to Celebrate 16 Years of Impact in Upper East Region
On a vibrant Friday evening, the headquarters of NorthLite Solar Limited in Zuarungu, Bolgatanga East, Upper East Region, transformed into a lively venue as clients, partners, and stakeholders gathered for a special cocktail engagement. The event, designed to foster connection and showcase NorthLite’s journey, marked another milestone in the company’s 16-year commitment to renewable energy and community upliftment. Mr. Adabre Akasoba Frank, the Chief Executive Officer, spoke passionately to Apexewsgh about the purpose of the gathering. “This event is mainly to socialize with the public and further share some of the packages offered by NorthLite Solar Limited,” he said. “We have been present in Bolga for 16 years; this is our headquarters. Here, we handle both off-grid and on-grid solar projects, always striving to touch lives and provide the best renewable energy services.” But NorthLite’s reach extends far beyond Bolgatanga. With a business location in Accra’s Airport City and a global office in Maryland, USA, NorthLite has established a footprint that enables them to attract investments and drive impact on a larger scale. Their mission? To deliver clean energy solutions tailored for both residential and commercial clients, while easing financial barriers through flexible, custom financing options. Partnerships with leading banks such as EcoBank, Stanbic, and Fidelity, as well as international financiers, allow NorthLite to support customers at every level. Importantly, NorthLite is dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities. “We are especially proud to help female farmers in pro-poor areas and ensure peri-urban communities gain access to electricity,” Mr. Frank explained. “Our approach is holistic; we engage people, understand their unique energy needs, and design products or services to meet them. Where financing is a hurdle, we intervene with pre-financed projects or even provide solutions free of charge, thanks to grants from multinational entities.” The impact of NorthLite’s work is visible throughout the Upper East Region and beyond. “Ten years ago, we might have reached a community school or a small clinic. Today, our services touch thousands, even in urban areas like Bolga,” Mr. Frank said with pride. Besides expanding access to electricity, NorthLite’s projects contribute to reducing CO2 emissions and making electricity a right for all, irrespective of income or location. The cocktail event also served as a platform for partners to share their experiences. Representatives from Stanbic Bank and EcoBank highlighted their ongoing collaboration with NorthLite, while clients such as Prof. David Millar of the Millar Institute and Akayet Hotel testified to the durability, reliability, and quality of NorthLite’s services. They encouraged other institutions to patronize NorthLite for their energy needs. As the evening unfolded, invited guests exchanged contacts and ideas, strengthening bonds across the renewable energy ecosystem. The event underscored NorthLite Solar Limited’s unwavering dedication to sustainable development, community empowerment, and creating lasting impact, one solar project at a time. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen