Upper East Region Grapples with Layered Climate Threats as Journalists Spotlight WASH Crisis
Once celebrated for its resilient communities, Ghana’s Upper East Region now stands as a stark example of climate change’s mounting toll. At the center of this unfolding story, thirty journalists recently convened in Bolgatanga for an intensive three-day training designed not only to strengthen climate change reporting, but also to shine a spotlight on the critical intersections of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) justice. The training, spearheaded by the Belim Wusa Development Agency (BEWDA) in partnership with WaterAid Ghana and the SIDA CLIMB Better WASH Partnership, offered a sobering look at the obstacles facing the region. Project Lead Mr. Sebastian Mbabugri Agumah painted a detailed picture for the assembled journalists: over the past decade, the Upper East has suffered a 10 to 15 percent decline in rainfall. What was once a predictable five- to six-month wet season has shrunk to just three or four months in many areas, stretching the dry season to six months and leaving wells empty and fields barren. Yet drought is only part of the crisis. Rising temperatures have ushered in more frequent and intense heat waves, raising average temperatures by up to 1 degree Celsius, with the specter of a 2-degree increase by 2050 looming ever closer. These heat waves bring not only discomfort but also heightened health risks and disease, compounding the region’s daily hardships. Extreme weather is now an annual ordeal. The Bagre Dam’s controlled spillage and the recent overflow of the Tono Irrigation Dam have both caused devastating floods, sweeping away roads and farmland. In the district of Binduri, fierce windstorms have ripped roofs from homes and schools, including structures. Wildfires and violent rainstorms, too, have become regular threats, stoking fresh anxieties each season. Across the five hardest-hit districts, Bawku West, Nabdam, Bongo, Kassena Nankana West, and Kassena Nankana Municipal, communities face at least three of these climate hazards simultaneously. As drought, flood, heatwave, windstorm, and wildfire layer one upon the next, the result is a compounding crisis that imperils the region’s WASH infrastructure. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Water Is Not a Donation: Advocates Call for Climate-Resilient WASH Services
A group of thirty journalists have gathered for a transformative three-day training, focused not just on climate change reporting, but on the deeper issues of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) justice. Spearheaded by the Belim Wusa Development Agency (BEWDA) in partnership with WaterAid Ghana and under the SIDA CLIMB Better WASH Partnership, the event became a platform for frank conversations about the responsibilities of duty-bearers and the rights of community members. Richard Ntibrey, Program Manager for WASH and Climate Change at WaterAid Ghana, did not mince words. “Water is not a donation. It is the duty of duty-bearers to provide it,” he declared, challenging the common misconception that access to clean water is something to be gifted rather than guaranteed. Ntibrey’s message struck a chord among the journalists: “Most times, community members are not aware that it is the duty of the duty-bearers to provide good sources of water in our various communities. We don’t want to see duty-bearers providing water as a donation. It is the duty of the duty-bearers to provide water.” The training, held in Bolgatanga, was more than a lecture, it was a call to action. Ntibrey emphasized the power of advocacy, urging journalists to tell the stories of both duty-bearers and right-holders. “Advocacy and influencing will allow you to reach more people, to target those responsible for providing water, sanitation, and hygiene, and to ensure systemic change. The focus here is on climate justice.” The project, currently running in five climate-vulnerable districts, Bawku West, Nabdam, Bongo, Kassena Nankana West, and Kassena Nankana Municipal, was born out of a climate vulnerability and risk assessment. Data revealed declining rainfall by as much as 15%, decreased borehole yields, and excessive heat, particularly in Nabdam. These findings, coupled with high poverty rates, made the districts a priority for climate-resilient WASH interventions. Ntibrey explained the role of NGOs like WaterAid Ghana: “Our work is to support government in delivering its mandates. But ultimately, it is the government’s responsibility to ensure that communities have sustainable access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services, especially in the face of climate change.” He called for leadership and collaboration from local and national governments, journalists, development organizations, and the communities themselves. “Most importantly, we want governments to invest more in sustainable WASH services that consider the impact of climate change. Beyond climate events, these systems must endure.” The stories journalists uncover, about water scarcity, declining sanitation, and the daily struggles of communities, are key to understanding the true impact of climate change. “Change starts with water,” Ntibrey affirmed. “If you enter a community and see them struggling for water, you know that agriculture, household nutrition, and sanitation are all affected.” The advocacy, he concluded, is about more than infrastructure. It’s about justice. “Wherever you are, you are either a duty-bearer or a right-holder. Duty-bearers must provide; right-holders must demand. Even in the face of climate change, access to water, sanitation, and hygiene is a right, not a privilege.” He stressed Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Spillage of Bagré Dam Postponed: WRC Issues Fresh Update
Communities living downstream of Burkina Faso’s Bagré Dam have received a temporary reprieve as the Water Resources Commission (WRC) announced the postponement of a planned controlled spillage. The decision, shared in a press release on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, follows new data from SONABEL, the dam’s operator, showing that the reservoir level remains below the critical threshold for water release. According to the WRC, the Bagré Dam’s reservoir currently stands at 233.08 metres, accounting for 75.40 percent of its capacity. This measurement leaves the water level 1.92 metres shy of the dam’s normal level of 235.00 metres, and still 1.42 metres below the 234.50-metre mark required to trigger the controlled spillage. The news comes after the WRC’s earlier warning on August 4, which cautioned farmers and residents along vulnerable waterways, especially those near the Kubore River in northern Ghana, to prepare for possible flooding. With the latest update, those communities have gained extra time to brace for any eventuality, though the risk remains should water levels rise further due to rainfall or increased inflows. SONABEL, tasked with managing the dam, has opted to continue monitoring the situation, delaying the commencement of spillage until the required reservoir level is reached. The WRC has assured the public that it will relay any significant developments, including the exact date and time of water release, as soon as SONABEL confirms the need for action. The Commission emphasized the importance of continued vigilance among stakeholders and residents in potentially affected areas. While the postponement offers some relief, the WRC reiterated that the situation could change rapidly, urging everyone to stay alert for further updates and official advisories. For now, the threat of immediate flooding from the Bagré Dam has been postponed, but the WRC continues its close watch over the reservoir, promising timely communication should conditions warrant a controlled spillage. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
IGP Promotes 25 Police Officers for Exceptional Crime-Fighting Achievements
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has promoted 25 police personnel in recognition of their outstanding performance and significant contributions to the fight against crime in Ghana. The officers were honored for their roles in a series of successful operations across the Bono East, Tema, and Western Central Police Regions. Their actions included the arrest of high-profile robbery suspects and the interception of suspected cocaine at the Tema Harbour. Among their notable achievements was the arrest of six suspects linked to a major robbery, in which GH¢300,000 was allegedly stolen from a victim along the Portor-Kawempe stretch of the Kintampo-Buipe Highway on July 19, 2026. Several of the promoted officers were also recognised for apprehending four suspected members of a violent robbery syndicate at Wassa Akropong in the Tarkwa area, as well as for their involvement in the recent interception of 866 parcels of suspected cocaine at the Tema Harbour. The promoted personnel include Chief Inspectors Bede Nwinbomeh and Joe Tetteh; General Sergeants Elijah Ndaga Yinimi and Kaifan Sulemanna; General Corporals Owusu Ansah Evans and Tansang Jonathan; and General Lance Corporals Osei Christopher Bonny, Kyei Francis, Ofori Francis, Anim Dominic, and Asante Isaac. Others are General Constables Adam Bakari Alhassan and Bakai Mark; Detective Chief Inspector Frank Dzah; Detective Inspectors Edem Ametowoga, Abroso, and Vincent Dankwah; and Detective Sergeants Salifu Yakubu and Samuel Mordzifa. The IGP praised the officers for their bravery, diligence, and commitment to upholding law and order. He encouraged all personnel to emulate these exemplary standards as the police service intensifies efforts to combat crime and ensure public safety nationwide. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin Reflects on Ayariga’s Departure, Praises His Candid and Easygoing Nature
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has paid tribute to the outgoing Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, describing him as a candid and easygoing colleague he will miss following Ayariga’s appointment as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs. Reflecting on their years of working together across the political aisle, Mr Afenyo-Markin spoke warmly of Mr Ayariga’s straightforward approach and affable personality. “I miss him. He has his strengths. He has things that I like about him. You know, he’s an affable, easygoing character,” the Effutu MP said during an appearance on Metro TV on Monday, August 10, 2026. Mr Ayariga, having been nominated to his new ministerial role, left the Majority Leader position to be succeeded by James Agalga. Mr Afenyo-Markin noted that what set Mr Ayariga apart was his willingness to speak his mind and his aversion to holding grudges, even when political disagreements arose. “Ayariga will not hide his feelings. At least I could easily predict him on what he likes and what he doesn’t like. And he doesn’t hold grudges. That is one strength I would miss,” he remarked. The Minority Leader explained that Mr Ayariga preferred to address conflicts directly. “If he’s not happy with you, he will call as a leader. This one, I’m not happy with you,” he said, adding that this candour helped prevent tensions from festering. Mr Afenyo-Markin also recalled that, despite the occasional political surprise in Parliament, both men maintained a healthy respect for each other’s roles and responsibilities. “There were times that he would surprise me. There were times that I also spring surprises on him. No politician likes surprises. But in the end, you are leading a side. You have a party interest to defend,” he reflected. Despite their different political affiliations, Mr Afenyo-Markin stressed that their differences never stood in the way of effective collaboration. “But all in all, I think we’ve worked well, and I wish him well in his new portfolio,” he concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Directs Minerals Commission to Take Administrative Control of Adamus Mine
The government has ordered the Minerals Commission to assume immediate administrative control of the Adamus Mine at Salman in the Ellembelle District, following the upholding of a decision to revoke Adamus Resources’ mining lease. This decisive move follows a review by a Ministerial Review Committee, which considered an appeal from Adamus Resources after its lease had been revoked over regulatory breaches. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, communicated the government’s position during a working visit to the Adamus Mine, explaining that the committee had confirmed most of the violations identified during the initial assessment. This paved the way for the Minerals Commission to step in and take over management of the embattled mine. “Following the report of the Minerals Commission to the Chief Inspector of Mines, and with recommendations of the great violation of the Mining Act and mining regulations, a recommendation for revocation of some mining leases was made. The Ministry agreed with them; there was a petition, and we formed the ministerial review committee. That work has come to an end. As a Minister, I have concluded to uphold the revocation. What that means is that the Minerals Commission should, with immediate effect, take administrative control of this Mine,” Minister Armah-Kofi Buah stated. He emphasized that the review process was conducted to give Adamus Resources a fair opportunity to raise its concerns and to ensure that all allegations were thoroughly considered before the final decision. With the decision now made, the Minerals Commission is tasked with collaborating with stakeholders to address operational and safety issues at the site. Looking ahead, the government is exploring options to revitalise the Adamus Mine and restore its operations, with the aim of creating jobs and stimulating economic activity for the people of the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area and the broader economy. The development is part of a wider government effort to ensure Ghana’s mineral resources are managed in the national interest and deliver greater benefits to host communities. Minister Armah-Kofi Buah’s visit to the mine, accompanied by Minerals Commission officials and other stakeholders, was aimed at assessing the state of the facility and discussing the next steps for its future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Former Power Minister Dr Kwabena Donkor Denies Involvement in Berko Bribery Case
Former Power Minister, Dr Kwabena Donkor, has firmly rejected allegations linking him to the bribery scheme for which former Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Managing Director and Goldman Sachs banker, Asante Kwaku Berko, was convicted in the United States. In a statement issued through his lawyers, Dr Donkor expressed surprise at the allegations circulating on social media, categorically denying ever asking for, demanding, or receiving any money from Mr Berko or any other person. His legal team stated that Dr Donkor had no knowledge of any payment requests made in his name and insisted he had never authorised anyone to seek money or personal benefits on his behalf. Dr Donkor did, however, confirm that he was the Minister responsible for Power during the period covered by the US case, when Ghana was negotiating the development of a power plant with Turkish energy company Aksa Enerji Uretim A.S. , referred to in the statement as ASKA Energy. These negotiations, his lawyers explained, took place at the height of Ghana’s electricity crisis, commonly known as “dumsor.” As part of the project’s due diligence, a technical delegation from relevant power-sector institutions travelled to Istanbul, Turkey, to inspect equipment for the proposed power project. Dr Donkor’s lawyers described this trip as a standard pre-shipment inspection, emphasizing that Dr Donkor did not meet with Mr Berko during the negotiations, and, in fact, has never met Mr Berko at all. The statement further stressed that Dr Donkor never discussed any personal payment or benefit with Mr Berko or anyone else in relation to the project. He asserted that if anyone sought money in his name, they did so without his knowledge or authority, and for their own benefit. Dr Donkor’s legal team also challenged the interpretation that references during the US trial to funds allegedly being sought for a “Senior Ghana Official” constituted evidence against him. They maintained that, based on Dr Donkor’s understanding, no evidence was presented at trial to show that he personally requested, received, or benefited from any payment in any currency or form. This statement comes days after a federal jury in Brooklyn, New York, convicted Mr Berko on August 6, 2026, for conspiring to pay, and paying, more than US$1 million in bribes to Ghanaian government officials to secure a power plant deal. The case involved allegations of illicit payments routed through the US financial system. Cautioning the public and media, Dr Donkor’s lawyers warned against publishing any allegations they consider defamatory or damaging to his reputation, promising swift legal action against any publication or statement that, in their view, wrongly impugns his integrity. They concluded by reiterating that the circulating allegations against their client are not supported by evidence presented during the US proceedings, as far as Dr Donkor is aware. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
EOCO Intensifies Probe into Ghanaian Angle of Asante Berko Bribery Case
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has ramped up its investigation into the Ghanaian aspect of the high-profile bribery case involving former Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Managing Director and Goldman Sachs banker, Asante Kwaku Berko. This intensified probe follows Berko’s recent conviction by a US federal jury over his involvement in a scheme that saw more than US$1 million in bribes allegedly paid to Ghanaian officials to facilitate the development and financing of a power plant. According to a statement issued by EOCO on Monday, August 10, the agency is now actively working to identify and trace funds, assets, and other financial benefits that may be linked to the alleged bribery scheme. The tracing and potential recovery of such assets, EOCO stated, is a central pillar of its Ghana-focused investigation. As part of its efforts, EOCO investigators will examine financial transactions, scrutinize individuals who may have benefited, and seek out assets acquired from or linked to suspected criminal activity. The Office noted that should any assets be found to have originated from unlawful conduct, they could be preserved and recovered, so long as the evidence and Ghanaian law permit. EOCO’s involvement dates back to 2025, after receiving a request from US authorities for information on persons in Ghana considered relevant to the bribery probe. That request specifically mentioned a former Minister of State and other public officials, broadening the scope of the investigation. Since then, EOCO has worked closely with the Attorney-General and the Ministry of Justice, tracking developments in the US case while pursuing leads on the Ghanaian side. In the wake of Berko’s conviction, the Attorney-General has moved swiftly to engage US authorities for the exchange of evidence and documents to bolster the ongoing investigation back home. Additionally, the Attorney-General has instructed EOCO to intensify its investigative efforts as more information becomes available through formal channels of international cooperation. Despite the gravity of Berko’s conviction, EOCO cautioned against assuming that criminal wrongdoing by others in Ghana is a foregone conclusion. The agency emphasized that each individual named in the evidence would be independently assessed on the basis of available evidence and in accordance with Ghanaian law. While EOCO has pledged to diligently follow the financial trail, it underscored its commitment to protecting sensitive investigative details to avoid jeopardizing ongoing inquiries or potential prosecutions. US prosecutors alleged that Asante Berko orchestrated the payment of over US$1 million in bribes to Ghanaian officials in connection with the power plant project, a scheme whose reverberations are now being thoroughly examined by Ghanaian anti-corruption authorities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
A Forensic Audit Uncovers $19.37 Million in Irregular Proceeds at Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C.
A forensic audit by the Auditor-General has uncovered a startling $19.37 million in irregular proceeds from visa and passport-related charges at Ghana’s Embassy in Washington D.C. between 2019 and 2025. The audit, which spanned several years, revealed a sophisticated scheme where applicants seeking passports or visas were redirected from the embassy’s official website to privately controlled external platforms. These platforms, disguised with official symbols and presentation styles, led many to believe they were dealing with government-authorised services. Instead, applicants found themselves paying hefty additional fees for processing and for the return of their documents. One of the most striking discoveries centered on mailing charges. Applicants were forced to pay $29.75 for return mailing, even though the average actual postage cost was only about $10.10. Over the review period, applicants paid a total of $6.95 million in mailing and dispatch fees. After deducting the true postage cost of $2.36 million, the auditors found an excess of approximately $4.59 million—money that found its way into unauthorized hands. But the irregularities didn’t end there. The audit found that applicants were also billed $67 for passport application support services and $76.78 for visa application assistance—charges that were never officially sanctioned by the government. Using data from the embassy’s Electronic Consular Information Management System (eCIMS) and AppTrack, investigators traced $21.34 million in transactions linked to these activities. After accounting for legitimate costs, about $19.37 million remained classified as irregular proceeds. The investigation uncovered that the external platforms, including TravelGhana.Net and GhanaPV.org, were linked to the embassy’s own Information Technology Officer, Fred Kwarteng, and associated entities. These sites were connected to the embassy’s official systems, with applicants unknowingly redirected to make payments through them. The ramifications of these irregularities extended beyond financial loss. The audit documented significant delays in the delivery of passports and visas. Between June and August 2025 alone, the embassy faced a backlog of 12,721 applications, even though applicants had already paid for mailing services. Of these, only 4,507 applications were mailed; the remaining 8,214 were either collected personally or not delivered at all. The embassy later spent about $45,000 to post letters and address part of the backlog. The report also scrutinized the actions of senior officials, such as former Ambassador Alima Mahama, who served from 2021 to 2024. According to the audit, Mrs Mahama signed a contract to formalize the outsourcing of passport and visa dispatch services to Travel Ghana/Secure Data Center, a decision that played a pivotal role in the unfolding events. Ultimately, the Auditor-General attributed the irregularities to weak internal controls, lack of oversight, manipulation of the embassy website, and the use of unauthorized external platforms. The report recommended that all irregular monies be recovered from the key actors involved, and that the implicated officers face sanctions under the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038). Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Urges NDC to Focus on Delivering Mandate, Not Succession Politics
Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called on members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to set aside premature discussions about presidential ambitions and remain focused on fulfilling the party’s promises to Ghanaians. In a candid interview with comedian and television host KSM, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang reflected on the hard work and collective effort that led to the party’s victory in the 2024 elections. “We worked very, very hard,” the Vice President emphasized, recalling the years of extensive consultation that shaped the NDC’s manifesto under the leadership of then-presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama. She praised Mahama’s dedication, referencing his nationwide Speak Out Tour, and expressed gratitude to the many volunteers who contributed ideas and resources to the party’s vision. “People volunteered and I want to use this medium to thank them. People flew, drove into Accra just coming to share ideas on how we could reset our country. We didn’t have money. It was a very, very good experience but we all felt energised,” she said. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang noted that the party’s campaign was built on the draft manifesto, which became the foundation for securing a decisive mandate from the electorate. “The people of Ghana were merciful. They voted for us, for a reason. They voted massively and we remain grateful,” she stated. She stressed that the mandate was to address the nation’s challenges, not to engage in political succession debates. “They didn’t vote for us today to be talking about going or not going. They said we should come and solve the problems. We have an agenda. What we inherited was a very, very tough situation. We have work to do,” she explained. According to the Vice President, the future of the government depends on its performance and the support given to President Mahama. “Whether we are going or coming depends on the work we are doing. It depends on the support we are giving our president who is leading the charge. And it depends on the quality of support we are giving.” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang warned that engaging in early succession politics would be a distraction, and a betrayal of the people’s trust. “If we are already going left and right and centre and back and it’s not even time, I think it’s a betrayal of the cause of the people and I don’t think it is right.” She closed with a passionate plea for unity and focus: “So, please, help us to fulfill the dreams of the beautiful country that we know can do much better, even than it is doing now. Let us focus on getting the job done. Speaking for myself, that is what I want to do.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com