The Speaker’s Disappointment: No Female Candidates in Ayawaso East By-Election
On a Wednesday filled with anticipation at the Political Inclusion and Consensus Building Forum, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, delivered a message tinged with both hope and disappointment. Organized by the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), the event was intended to spotlight the path toward greater political inclusion in Ghana. Yet, Bagbin’s remarks cast a shadow over the proceedings. As the Ayawaso East by-election approaches on March 3, Bagbin confessed he had been eagerly waiting for at least one political party to present a woman as its parliamentary candidate. “I was waiting for any party to have fielded a female candidate in the Ayawaso East by-election. I will personally support the candidate because we need more of our women in Parliament. Unfortunately, the parties have disappointed me,” he lamented. Bagbin emphasized that the journey to representation in Parliament begins at the party level. “Political parties are the gateways to representation. Parliament is the arena where representation becomes decision-making. Therefore, inclusion must begin in parties and mature in Parliament,” he said, urging parties to open their doors wider to women and other underrepresented groups. The by-election was called after the unfortunate passing of the sitting MP, Mahama Naser Toure, who died in January while receiving treatment at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Now, five men are vying for the seat: Baba Jamal of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) holds the first spot on the ballot, Ibrahim Iddrisu of the Liberal People’s Party (LPP) is second, and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Yussif Baba Ali, is third. Two independent candidates, Alhaji Mohammed Umar Sanda and David Kannor, fill the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. The competition has not been without controversy. The NDC has revoked the membership of Alhaji Mohammed Umar Sanda for contesting as an independent, citing a breach of party rules. As the by-election draws near, Bagbin’s call for greater female participation echoes in the halls of Parliament and beyond, a reminder that true representation starts with bold choices at the party level. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dawadawa Is More Than a Seasoning — It Is Heritage in Flavor
Dawadawa is more than a seasoning. It is memory, nutrition, economy, and sustainability woven together in flavor. In many West African kitchens, there is a defining moment when a pot of soup begins to deepen in character. Onions have softened, peppers have blended into the base, and palm oil or shea butter shimmers with heat. Then comes the quiet but transformative addition — a small ball or paste of fermented locust beans. The aroma shifts instantly, earthy and complex. That unmistakable scent signals something profound: dawadawa has entered the dish. Made from the fermented seeds of the African locust bean tree, scientifically known as Parkia biglobosa, dawadawa has nourished communities across West Africa for generations. Known by different names — iru among the Yoruba, soumbala in parts of the Sahel — it remains one of the region’s most treasured indigenous condiments. Its essence is simple yet powerful: carefully fermented seeds shaped by knowledge passed down through time. The African locust bean tree stands resilient across the savannah landscapes of Ghana, Burkina Faso, Mali, and northern Nigeria. It thrives in dry climates where other crops struggle, offering shade, soil enrichment, and food security. The tree’s long pods contain sweet yellow pulp enjoyed as a snack, but it is the hard brown seeds that become dawadawa. For many rural communities, this tree is not just vegetation; it is livelihood, nourishment, and ecological stability. The tree contributes quietly to sustainable agriculture. It enriches soils through nitrogen fixation, reduces erosion, and integrates naturally into traditional parkland farming systems. Farmers often preserve it within their fields rather than cutting it down, recognizing its value. Long before climate resilience and regenerative agriculture became global buzzwords, West African communities were practicing them through their relationship with this tree. Dawadawa is not simply harvested; it is crafted through labor and patience. The process begins during harvest season when ripe pods are collected. The pods are boiled to soften the pulp and release the seeds. After washing, the seeds undergo hours of cooking to soften their tough coats. Women — often working collectively — remove the seed coats by pounding and washing, a physically demanding task that requires strength and skill. Once cleaned, the seeds are boiled again and then wrapped in leaves or placed in covered containers to ferment naturally over several days. It is during fermentation that transformation occurs. Microorganisms break down complex compounds, producing the deep umami flavor that defines dawadawa. The seeds darken, soften, and develop their characteristic pungent aroma. No artificial additives are required. Time, heat, and microbial life do the work. This fermentation knowledge is rarely written down. It is carried in memory and practice, passed from mothers to daughters and elders to apprentices. Women know by touch, scent, and experience when fermentation is complete. The craft reflects an intimate understanding of natural processes, developed long before modern food science offered explanations. Beyond its distinctive flavor, dawadawa is nutritionally significant. It is rich in protein, making it an essential supplement in communities where access to animal protein may be limited. It contains beneficial fats, calcium, iron, and B vitamins. Fermentation enhances digestibility and increases the availability of nutrients. In households with constrained incomes, a small portion can transform a simple pot of soup into a nutrient-dense meal. In northern Ghana, dawadawa defines beloved soups such as ayoyo and groundnut soup. In Nigeria, iru enriches egusi and ogbono soups. Across the Sahel, soumbala flavors stews served with millet or couscous. Each region shapes and prepares it slightly differently, yet the shared cultural thread remains strong. For many in the diaspora, its aroma evokes childhood kitchens, communal meals, and the steady rhythm of family life. Unlike imported bouillon cubes that increasingly fill market shelves, dawadawa carries no anonymous industrial origin. It carries the story of harvest seasons, of women gathered under shade trees pounding seeds, of conversation and laughter during fermentation days. In this way, it anchors communities to ancestral foodways even as globalization reshapes consumption patterns. Women stand at the center of dawadawa production and trade. Across Ghana’s Upper East, Northern, and Upper West regions, they harvest, process, and sell the condiment in local markets. Income from sales supports households, pays school fees, and strengthens women’s financial independence. The work is demanding, but it is also empowering. On market days, woven baskets lined with leaves display carefully shaped balls of fermented seeds. Buyers inspect texture, inhale aroma, and negotiate prices. Knowledge of quality is shared openly — whether fermentation is adequate, whether moisture levels are right, whether the product will store well. Markets become spaces of both commerce and cultural exchange. Modern discussions about sustainable food systems often emphasize reducing carbon footprints, promoting biodiversity, and strengthening local supply chains. Dawadawa embodies these principles naturally. Its primary ingredient grows locally with minimal external inputs. Production requires no imported chemicals. Distribution typically happens within short distances between producers and consumers. The African locust bean tree supports biodiversity and integrates into agroforestry systems. By preserving the tree, farmers maintain ecological balance. In a world increasingly reliant on long and fragile global supply chains, dawadawa demonstrates the resilience of localized food systems grounded in community knowledge. Yet challenges persist. Urbanization and shifting dietary preferences have led some consumers to favor imported seasonings perceived as more convenient. Younger generations may see traditional processing methods as labor-intensive. Climate change threatens tree populations through prolonged droughts and land degradation. Limited access to improved equipment can also constrain production quality and scalability. Within these challenges lie opportunities. Cooperatives can strengthen bargaining power. Improved packaging and hygiene standards can expand markets while preserving authenticity. Agroforestry initiatives can promote tree conservation and planting. Culinary education can reintroduce youth to the value of indigenous foods. When tradition meets innovation respectfully, resilience grows. Dawadawa’s importance extends beyond nutrition and economics. Food is one of the most enduring carriers of culture. Even as languages evolve and clothing styles change, taste memories remain. Preparing dawadawa teaches patience and cooperation. It honors processes that cannot be rushed without
Decade-Long Delay on Critical Buluk Road Sparks Youth Protest in Fumbisi
Hundreds of youth from the Builsa South District took to the streets in Fumbisi today to pressure the government into completing the long-stalled Chuchuliga–Sandema–Fumbisi–Wiesi road project. The demonstrators argue that the interminable delay is endangering lives, crippling livelihoods, and jeopardizing the food basket of the Upper East Region. Speaking at a press conference during the protest, convener Amwaate Isaac Atiim detailed the severe impact of the project’s abandonment on the residents of Buluk and the surrounding areas. The group revealed that despite being awarded to Myturn Construction Company Limited back in 2016, the Navrongo–Chuchuliga–Sandema–Fumbisi–Wiesi road remains in a deplorable state nearly ten years later. They stressed that this is no mere feeder road, but a crucial artery linking farming hubs, markets, health centres, and schools across the Builsa North and South districts. “This road is essential for inter-district connectivity, and its neglect has inflicted immense suffering on our people,” the group’s statement read. The protesters highlighted the strategic importance of the area, noting that the Builsa South District hosts the largest rice valley in northern Ghana, producing thousands of tonnes of rice annually alongside maize, millet, sorghum, and legumes. They cautioned that the deteriorating road network is severely hampering the evacuation of produce, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and undermining national food security. The demonstrators issued a clear set of demands to the authorities, calling for: Contract Review: An immediate review of the contract with Myturn Construction Company Limited, with a view to termination if the firm is found incapable of completing the work. Re-awarding of Project: The prompt engagement of a competent contractor with the technical and financial muscle to finish the road and its associated networks swiftly. Policy Implementation: The immediate application of the government’s annual 10-kilometre asphalt road policy per district to ensure durable roads for Builsa North and South. Public Accountability: Transparent disclosure of the project’s status, funding, and completion timeline to the public. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chamber of Agribusiness CEO Calls for National Agriculture Database to Protect Local Farmers
A sense of urgency gripped the agricultural community after grim reports surfaced: Ghanaian tomato traders, in search of produce in Burkina Faso, had been attacked by insurgents. The incident cast a spotlight on the dangers local traders face when crossing borders to secure agricultural goods and reignited debate over Ghana’s dependence on imports. Amid the growing concerns, Anthony Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana, took to the airwaves on the Citi Breakfast Show, Tuesday, February 17, with a clarion call for government action. Morrison advocated for the establishment of a comprehensive national agriculture database, arguing that such a tool is critical to regulating imports and shielding local farmers from harmful market distortions. He pointed out that Ghana’s continued reliance on imported agricultural commodities, even when local production is available, highlights a significant policy gap. “The Chamber has proposed over the last 10 years that, as a country, we have come of age, and there is a need for us to build an agriculture information database where we know how many fields are under production for every commodity,” Morrison explained. According to him, a robust agricultural information system would empower authorities to better regulate imports, support local producers, and stabilise markets. Importantly, it could also help reduce the risks traders face when venturing outside the country for supplies. “If somebody comes to apply for a permit to import a certain quantity of a product, we use the database to tell the person that in the next month, these are the quantities that are going to be harvested locally so your 50,000 import permit cannot be approved,” he said. Morrison emphasised that the lack of such a system leads to market disruptions and post-harvest losses, as imported crops often arrive just as local harvests are coming in. The Chamber, he said, has long championed a data-driven approach to guide decisions on import permits and safeguard the livelihoods of Ghanaian farmers. His remarks served as a rallying cry to policymakers: the time has come for Ghana to harness the power of information to strengthen its agricultural sector and protect its people. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
FDA Warns Public Against Use of Cement in Bean Preservation
A wave of concern swept across Ghana after a viral video surfaced on social media, allegedly showing the use of a white powdery substance, suspected to be cement, to preserve beans. The footage quickly drew public attention, prompting the Food and Drug Authority (FDA) to issue a firm warning on February 16, 2026. In its press statement, the FDA categorically dismissed the preservation method depicted in the video, stating that it is neither approved nor practiced in Ghana. The authority clarified that the procedure, featuring beans treated with what appeared to be concrete cement, does not align with any food safety or agricultural standards endorsed by Ghana’s Plant Protection and Regulation Services Directorate (PPRSD) of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. Delving deeper, the FDA revealed that a review of the video suggested the language spoken was not Ghanaian. A translation of the narration exposed a series of unsafe and unhygienic handling practices, including the direct application of chemicals with bare hands and the absence of protective clothing. The video also showed an individual standing directly on a heap of beans without any protective gear, an image that alarmed food safety officials. The FDA stressed that using cement for food preservation is strictly prohibited under Ghana’s regulations. “The FDA, together with its stakeholder institutions, does not approve of food preservation practices that compromise food safety and public health,” the statement emphasized. The authority also condemned poor hygiene and the use of unapproved substances as violations of national food safety standards. Reassuring the public, the FDA made it clear that such hazardous practices are not encouraged or permitted in Ghana. The authority urged farm produce aggregators and retailers to avoid unsafe preservation methods and reminded consumers to remain vigilant. Anyone witnessing suspicious food handling or preservation practices was encouraged to report them to the FDA for swift investigation and possible sanctions. Through this decisive response, the FDA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and maintaining the highest standards of food safety across the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
U.S. Embassy in Accra Opens Over 1,000 Visa Appointment Slots
A wave of excitement swept through Ghana’s travel community on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as the U.S. Embassy in Accra made a major announcement: more than 1,000 non-immigrant visa appointment slots were now available for booking, offering prospective travellers the rare chance to secure interview dates within the next week. In a notice shared on Facebook, the embassy revealed that a significant number of B1/B2 visa appointments, designed for business and tourism, were open. Officials encouraged applicants to move quickly and take advantage of the newly available slots. The move, embassy representatives explained, was part of broader preparations by the United States to facilitate increased travel ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host alongside Mexico and Canada. “There are more than 1,000 B1/B2 visa appointment slots available in the next week – one of those could be yours,” the embassy’s notice read. Those who already had appointments scheduled for later in the year were advised to reschedule for an earlier date if it suited their plans. “Book a new appointment – or move up one scheduled for later in the year – we want to interview you now!” the statement urged. Prospective applicants were directed to the Embassy’s official visa page for comprehensive details on application requirements and the booking process. This swift move by the U.S. Embassy is expected to ease frustrations among would-be travellers who, in recent months, have endured long waits for interview appointments. For many, the sudden availability of slots represents a welcome opportunity to pursue business, tourism, and World Cup dreams in the United States. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
COCOBOD Leaders Slash Salaries Amid Cocoa Sector Liquidity Crunch
On Monday, February 16, 2026, a decisive announcement echoed through the corridors of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) headquarters. In a bold response to persistent liquidity challenges in the cocoa sector, the executive management and senior staff declared immediate salary cuts that would span the remainder of the 2025/26 crop year. According to a formal statement signed by Dr Randy Abbey, Chief Executive of COCOBOD, executive management would take a 20% reduction in their pay, while senior staff would see their salaries trimmed by 10%. The move, Dr. Abbey explained, was part of a comprehensive set of cost-saving measures designed to steer the organisation through current financial headwinds. These salary cuts are just one aspect of a wider strategy. COCOBOD is also tightening its belt in procurement and initiating a staff rationalisation exercise—each step aimed at slashing overall expenditure and ensuring that costs are better aligned with fluctuating revenues. Behind these tough choices lies a singular goal: safeguarding the sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry. COCOBOD’s leadership underscored the importance of maintaining operational efficiency and protecting the livelihoods of cocoa farmers, even as economic pressures mount. As the new measures take effect, the message from the top is clear—shared sacrifice and prudent management are essential for navigating the sector’s challenges and securing a stable future for Ghana’s cocoa industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana and Lebanon Forge Stronger Security Ties
On Monday, the office of Ghana’s Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, buzzed with diplomatic activity as he welcomed a high-level delegation of Lebanese security officials to Accra. The meeting marked a significant step towards enhanced cooperation between the two countries, focusing on the pressing challenges posed by transnational crime. The Lebanese delegation, led by Ali Samih Jaafar, Consul General of Ghana in Lebanon, included key figures such as Brigadier General Morshed El Hajj Sleiman, Deputy Director of State Security in Lebanon; Colonel Ayman Machmouchi, Head of the Drug Repression Bureau; and Lieutenant Colonel Salah El Hajj, Head of the Office of the Deputy State Security. Their arrival underscored the seriousness with which both nations viewed the growing threat posed by cross-border crime. Discussions during the meeting focused on the major security concerns shared by Ghana and Lebanon. Topics such as cyber fraud, drug trafficking, money laundering, and other emerging threats dominated the agenda. Both sides explored practical ways to foster closer collaboration, with special emphasis on intelligence sharing, capacity building, and joint security operations. Minister Muntaka stressed the importance of global partnerships in the fight against transnational crime, pointing out that sustained international cooperation is crucial for ensuring safety and security. He expressed Ghana’s determination to deepen ties with Lebanon, noting that such engagement is vital for tackling the complex challenges faced by both countries. By the end of the meeting, a renewed commitment was clear: Ghana and Lebanon would work hand-in-hand to address shared security threats and further strengthen diplomatic relations. The day’s engagement set a constructive tone for future collaboration, paving the way for a safer, more secure partnership between the two nations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Minister’s Call: Fugu and Kente as Symbols of Unity
On Wednesday morning, the vibrant energy at the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry was unmistakable. Journalists gathered in anticipation as Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, stepped forward with a message that resonated far beyond the walls of the conference room. Her voice carried conviction as she addressed the crowd, urging all Ghanaians to embrace fugu and kente, not as mere ethnic symbols, but as cherished national treasures. Both textiles, she reminded everyone, have been recognised by UNESCO as elements of cultural heritage, a source of pride not just for specific regions, but for the entire nation. The minister’s passionate appeal came at a pivotal moment. The government was ramping up efforts to popularise the wearing of fugu on Wednesdays, a campaign designed to boost local textile patronage and invigorate the domestic industry. The initiative had already begun to capture public imagination, especially after President John Dramani Mahama’s recent appearance in a fugu during his state visit to Zambia. Speaking on the sidelines of a meeting between the Smock Weavers’ Association and ministry officials, Ms. Gomashie explained the significance of “Fugu Wednesday.” She noted with satisfaction how Members of Parliament and other prominent figures had joined the movement, turning the traditional garment into a symbol of national pride. But her message was about more than clothing. “It is not about tribe. It is not about a language. It is about Ghana,” she declared. “For this fugu and kente that have been listed on UNESCO sites as a heritage product that we are offering the world, it should be a rallying round of the red, gold, green, and the black star.” She called on citizens to look beyond regional or ethnic lines and see fugu and kente as enduring expressions of Ghana’s collective identity. “It is not about any particular tribe. It is about what it is that identifies us as Ghanaians. I am using your platform to thank all the people who bought into the idea and wore fugu on Wednesday. Come Wednesday, let’s be even bigger,” she encouraged. With her words, the minister painted a vision of unity, one where every stitch of fugu and kente tells the story of a nation woven together by heritage, pride, and hope for the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Ghana Foundation Brings Valentine’s Day Blood Drive to Upper East Region Schools
In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, MTN Ghana Foundation extended a life-saving gesture to the Upper East Region by organizing a large-scale blood donation exercise aimed at replenishing the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital blood bank. The initiative, part of the Foundation’s annual Valentine activities, drew enthusiastic participation from students at Bolgatanga Senior High, Zamse Technical, and Bolgatanga Technical Senior High schools. Speaking to the media during the event, Martin Yaw Kumobah, Territory Sales Controller for the Upper East Region, explained the Foundation’s motivation. “The MTN Ghana Blood Donation Exercise isn’t new; we’ve been doing this for years across the country. This year, in the Upper East, we’re targeting about 400 pounds of blood to support the regional blood bank. The best love we can show humanity is by donating blood to save lives. You never know who might benefit; it could be you or someone close to you.” The blood drive was conducted simultaneously across the three schools, with students lining up to contribute and share in the cause. Kumobah emphasized that the campaign is a nationwide effort, with parallel exercises happening in all regional capitals. Students who participated echoed the importance of donating blood for the good of others, noting the unpredictability of emergencies and the need for a well-stocked blood bank to save lives in critical moments. MTN Ghana Foundation’s initiative not only celebrated the month of love but also fostered community spirit and social responsibility among the region’s youth, reinforcing the message that a single act of kindness, like donating blood, can make a difference in countless lives. Source: Apexnewsgh.com