MTN invests GH¢15.4m in Ho Teaching Hospital, Trains 1,000 girls in digital skills
MTN Ghana has invested GH¢15.4 million in an ultra-modern Accident and Emergency Centre at the Ho Teaching Hospital and trained 1,000 young girls and 100 teachers in digital skills as part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery and expand technology education in the Volta Region. David Gyimah Boadi, General Manager for Sales for Southern Ghana at MTN Ghana, disclosed this at a stakeholder engagement forum in the region where the telecommunications company outlined its contributions to healthcare, education, digital inclusion and socio-economic development. The Accident and Emergency Centre, constructed through the MTN Ghana Foundation, was commissioned and handed over to the hospital in March 2026. The facility represents a major investment in healthcare infrastructure aimed at strengthening emergency medical services and improving access to critical care in the region. Mr. Boadi said MTN remains committed to supporting Ghana’s development priorities through improved connectivity, digital and financial inclusion, support for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and initiatives to equip young people with skills relevant to the evolving digital economy. “MTN remain committed to supporting Ghana’s development priorities through improved connectivity, digital and financial inclusion, support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and initiatives to equip young people with skills relevant to the evolving digital economy,” he said. Mr. Boadi cited programmes such as “One Million Coders”, the “MTN Skills Academy” and “Girls-in-ICT” as key interventions designed to prepare young people for emerging opportunities in technology and innovation. According to him, the Girls-in-ICT programme was organised in the Volta Region last year in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications, training 1,000 girls and 100 teachers in basic Information and Communications Technology (ICT), digital competencies and work-readiness skills. He said the initiative sought to bridge the digital skills gap, encourage more young people, particularly girls, to pursue technology-related fields and improve their readiness for employment and entrepreneurship in the digital economy. “The initiative sought to bridge the digital skills gap, encourage more young people, particularly girls, to pursue technology-related fields and improve their readiness for employment and entrepreneurship in the digital economy”, he noted. On education, Mr. Boadi disclosed that 230 students in the Volta Region have benefited from the MTN Ghana Foundation’s Bright Scholarship Scheme which provides financial and educational support to deserving students. He said the foundation awarded 500 “Bright Scholarships” nationally in 2026, providing beneficiaries with assistance covering tuition, accommodation, stipends and laptops to ease the financial burden of education and improve access to learning opportunities. Mr. Boadi also disclosed that the MTN Skills Academy has equipped more than 100,000 young people with digital literacy, financial skills and career competencies to enhance their employability and participation in the digital economy. He said the company is further creating opportunities for young innovators, start-ups, SMEs and developers through initiatives such as DigiFest 2026, the Tɛkyerɛma Pa Hackathon and the MTN Game Developer Contest. These platforms provide opportunities for participants to develop practical skills, showcase innovative ideas and contribute to Ghana’s growing digital ecosystem. On her part, Sheila Sorinye, Media Relations Adviser of MTN-Ghana, pledged MTN Ghana’s commitment to providing quality and a smooth service to its customers . “MTN recognizes that,without our value customers we don’t have business for that matter we are investing a lot making sure that we give our customers experience to satisfy the needs of our customers. We make sure that we treat our customers fairly with empathy. “So the customer is the pillar of our business and MTN is doing everything possible to make sure we give that world class customer service to our clients.” The stakeholder engagement brought together media practitioners, regulators, customers and representatives of institutions including the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA). Participants discussed network investments, customer experience, digital inclusion, environmental sustainability, enterprise development and the future of Ghana’s digital transformation. They also used the engagement to share concerns, exchange ideas and provide feedback on MTN’s services and operations. The engagement underscored the importance of collaboration among telecommunications companies, regulators, the media and other institutions in improving service delivery and expanding access to digital opportunities. MTN Ghana noted that its investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education and digital skills development form part of its broader commitment to using technology and strategic partnerships to support national, individuals and business development. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Assures Ghanaians—No More Power Outages as Energy Sector Stabilizes
Sometime ago, in the heart of Ghana, the nation was gripped by the persistent problem of power outages, known locally as ‘dumsor’. Homes and businesses alike were plunged into darkness at unexpected moments, and the entire country yearned for a lasting solution. President John Dramani Mahama, determined to bring relief to his people, took on the challenge. When his administration assumed office, it faced a staggering debt of about $1.7 billion owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), along with unpaid bills for gas supplied from the Jubilee Field and by ENI. The situation was so dire that some power producers threatened to cut off supply altogether if the debts remained unsettled. Understanding the urgency, President Mahama and his government rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Through determined efforts, they cleared the outstanding debts owed to the IPPs and introduced a reliable payment arrangement. This new system ensured that power suppliers would now be paid on time for the electricity they provided, restoring their confidence in the country’s commitment. During a recent engagement with Ghanaians in Moscow, Russia, President Mahama shared the good news. “With regards to energy, I can report that there’s no dumsor in Ghana. Everybody has adequate power. And that’s one of the areas that has been quite dramatic in terms of its management. I’m happy to announce that we have cleared the IPP debt. That is, we are current. Any energy they supply today, we’re paying them,” he declared with pride. He went on to explain how the newly introduced payment plan had transformed relationships between the government and power producers. Initial payments were made, and subsequent amounts would now be settled as they fell due, ensuring that no debt would pile up again. The power producers, once wary, were now satisfied and confident in the government’s payment structure. President Mahama assured Ghanaians that the country had more than enough power to meet demand. Thanks to the interventions and diligent management, Ghana’s energy sector had been restored to stability and was now shining brighter than ever before. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
15-Year-Old Ghanaian Immigrant Fatally Shot in the Bronx
A tragic incident unfolded in the Bronx, New York City, as a 15-year-old Ghanaian immigrant, Javits Frimpong, lost his life after being shot on Thursday, October 29. Police confirmed that the shooting occurred near the intersection of Crotona Place and East 171st Street shortly before 9:30 a.m. Authorities reported that Javits was shot in the abdomen and was discovered drifting in and out of consciousness. He managed to run about a block after the shooting but ultimately collapsed and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The New York Police Department is currently searching for three suspects believed to be involved in the shooting. The suspects, all last seen dressed in black clothing, reportedly fled down Fulton Avenue. Surveillance footage captured one individual matching the police description: a person wearing a black hoodie, black sweatpants, and a mask. Two of the suspects were seen in surgical masks. In an emotional interview, the victim’s father, Thomas Frimpong, revealed that Javits had moved to the United States from Ghana just a year ago. He said his son had recently complained of being bullied at school, and that two students had been suspended for repeatedly targeting him. Police investigations are ongoing as authorities appeal to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible for Javits Frimpong’s death. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Two Ghanaian Nationals Plead Guilty in $100 Million International Fraud Scheme
Two Ghanaian nationals, Isaac Oduro Boateng, also known as “Kofi Boat”, and Inusah Ahmed, known as “Pascal”, have pleaded guilty in a US federal court for their roles in orchestrating a vast international criminal organisation responsible for defrauding victims of over US$100 million through romance scams and business email compromise schemes across the United States. According to the US Department of Justice, Boateng entered his guilty plea on Thursday, October 29, 2026, while Ahmed pleaded guilty two days earlier, on October 27, before US District Judge Arun Subramanian. Both men admitted to conspiring to commit wire fraud and to managing and supervising the Ghana-based network. Court documents reveal that Boateng and Ahmed served as chairmen of the criminal organisation, which preyed on vulnerable individuals, primarily older men and women, by creating fake online identities and establishing romantic relationships. After gaining the victims’ trust, the fraudsters convinced them to transfer money or help launder proceeds from other victims. The group also targeted businesses, manipulating them via business email compromise schemes into transferring funds to accounts controlled by the network. Investigators found that the proceeds of these fraudulent activities were laundered back to West Africa. Boateng was held responsible for approximately US$12.5 million in losses, while Ahmed was linked to around US$28.5 million. Both men agreed to pay restitution and forfeiture matching these sums as part of their guilty pleas. Boateng, 41, and Ahmed, 37, each face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Their sentencing dates have yet to be announced. Another member of the organisation, Derrick Van Yeboah (“Van”), has already been sentenced to 85 months in prison, while a fourth alleged member, Patrick Kwame Asare (“Borgar”), is still at large. US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced the guilty pleas, stating that the convictions show international borders are no barrier to justice for financial crimes against Americans. He credited the support of several Ghanaian agencies, including the Attorney General’s Office, Economic and Organised Crime Office, Ghana Police Service, and others—for their roles in the investigation and extradition of the two men, who were brought to the United States on August 7, 2025, following close collaboration between authorities in both countries. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Suspect Arrested After Fatal Shooting Following Marital Dispute
According to police accounts, a tragic incident unfolded after mounting tensions in a polygamous household. The suspect, reportedly troubled by ongoing disagreements between his wife and her co-wife, often accused his wife of infidelity. Matters escalated when the deceased threatened to leave the marriage during one of their disputes. On the day of the incident, sources say the deceased had yet another confrontation with the first wife and again expressed her intention to end the marriage. In the early hours of the following morning, according to police reports, the suspect allegedly shot his wife in the left side of her chest, resulting in her instant death. Bifam Janbebu Solomon, Assembly Member for the Sogon No. 2 Electoral Area, confirmed to the media that the matter was promptly reported, leading to the arrest of the suspect. Police have since confirmed the arrest and stated that the suspect has been remanded into custody. He is expected to reappear before the court on November 9, 2026. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority Caucus Slams Public Sector Salary Deal as “Insult” to Ghanaian Workers
The Minority Caucus on Employment, Labour Relations and Pensions had just emerged from a closed-door meeting, their faces set with resolve. News had broken of the government’s new Multi-Year Public Service Remuneration Agreement, which, after weeks of negotiations, had been finalized on October 28. The details were stark: public sector workers would receive an 8 percent increase in base pay and an additional 1 percent adjustment in conditions of service for 2027, a total of 9 percent. For 2028, the raise would be 10 percent. To the government, it was a modest step forward. But to the Minority Caucus, it was nothing short of an insult. Mavis Nkansah Boadu, Ranking Member of the Committee on Employment, Labour Relations and Pensions, signed a statement on October 30, expressing the Minority’s shock and disappointment. She recounted stories from constituents, teachers struggling with rent, nurses watching transport fares eat into their wages, and civil servants forced to choose between electricity and food. The caucus argued that the salary adjustments failed to keep pace with the relentless rise in the cost of living: electricity and water tariffs had climbed, transport and rent soared, and basic household expenses continued to mount. “The proposed increases do not reflect the realities faced by Ghanaian workers,” Boadu declared. The sentiment echoed through the statement: the 9 percent increment for 2027, in the face of economic hardship, was inadequate and would further erode the purchasing power of public sector employees. In response, the Minority Caucus called for an urgent overhaul of the remuneration framework. They demanded the immediate reconvening of the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee (PSJSNC) to establish a living wage, one that truly accounts for the cumulative toll of rising utility tariffs, commodity prices, and the broader economic climate. The caucus insisted that future wage negotiations must move beyond nominal figures and reflect the genuine cost of living endured by Ghanaian workers. For now, the Minority’s message rang loud and clear: the current agreement was not enough, and the fight for fair wages was far from over. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Embraces Criticism as a Tool for Better Leadership
During a vibrant engagement with members of the Ghanaian community in Moscow, Russia, President John Dramani Mahama shared a candid perspective on public criticism of his administration. Rather than taking offense, President Mahama explained that he values feedback, whether praise or disapproval, as essential for growth and effective governance. He told the gathering that he welcomes divergent opinions and is open to scrutiny from citizens. For Mahama, hearing people challenge the direction of his government is not an attack but an opportunity for reflection and improvement. “I don’t mind if people tell me I am leading the country in the wrong direction because I am trying to do my best. Criticism helps me to do better. So when people criticise me and say this is not right, I am not offended,” he said. President Mahama emphasized that his primary responsibility is to serve the country to the best of his ability. He assured Ghanaians that he pays close attention to suggestions and concerns, even if they come from those who disagree with his policies. He specifically referenced the lively discussions and commentary on social media, noting that he keeps track of videos and posts shared on platforms such as TikTok. “So all your TikToks and things, don’t think I don’t see them. I see them,” Mahama remarked, reinforcing his awareness of the ongoing conversations about his leadership. Through his remarks, President Mahama demonstrated a commitment to democratic values by encouraging open dialogue and reassuring Ghanaians that their voices truly matter. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Public sector workers are set to receive a 9% increase in total remuneration in 2027
Public sector workers are set to receive a 9% increase in total remuneration in 2027, effective January 1, following an agreement reached between the government and Organised Labour. The announcement came on Wednesday, after a crucial meeting of the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee. Joshua Ansah, Secretary-General of Organised Labour, revealed that the long-awaited pay adjustment will comprise an 8-percentage-point increase in base pay and a 1-percentage-point allocation for conditions of service. This significant development followed weeks of negotiations between government representatives and leaders of Organised Labour, who have been advocating for improved conditions for public sector employees. The new agreement aims to address rising living costs and boost worker morale across all public institutions. In addition to the 2027 adjustment, the two parties agreed on a further 10% across-the-board pay increase for 2028, also effective January 1. The 2028 increase will be calculated based on the applicable wage bill as of December 31, 2027. While the agreement marks an important milestone, it remains subject to the necessary legislative process before it can be fully implemented. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bui Power Authority Expands Solar Capacity, Reaches Beyond Operational Borders
Since 2020, the Bui Power Authority (BPA) has been on a mission to transform Ghana’s energy landscape, harnessing the sun’s power to diversify the nation’s electricity generation. Within just a few years, the Authority has developed about 200 megawatts-peak (MWp) of solar photovoltaic (PV) installations within its traditional operational area, marking a major leap in Ghana’s renewable energy drive. The story of BPA’s solar transformation took a significant turn when Parliament amended the Authority’s enabling Act. This fresh mandate empowered BPA to move beyond its hydropower roots and embrace green and clean energy resources. Under this expanded mission, BPA rolled out a phased approach to solar development. In 2021, BPA commissioned its first 50MWp solar plant, alongside a pioneering 1MWp floating solar installation on the Black Volta River. The floating system was a bold experiment: could solar panels on water reliably generate and deliver power? The answer was a resounding yes. The success of this pilot led to a further 4MWp being added to the floating project in 2023, bringing the total floating capacity to 5MWp. Additional ground-mounted solar capacity brought BPA’s operational area total to an impressive 200MWp by 2025. But BPA’s ambitions didn’t stop there. For the first time, the Authority ventured beyond its usual territory to deliver the 50MWp Galgu solar plant in the Yendi Municipality of the Northern Region. Costing around US$50 million and executed in partnership with Ghanaian company First Sky Limited under an EPC+F arrangement, the project marked a new chapter for BPA. First Sky not only financed the project but also handled planning, installation, and construction. The investment is set to be recouped through payments for the electricity generated over five to seven years. Senior External Relations Officer, Mawuli Fui Kwadzovia, highlighted the long-term benefits of the solar push during an appearance on the Citi Breakfast Show. He explained that, while solar installations require significant upfront investment, their operating costs are much lower than those of thermal plants, as they aren’t reliant on continuous fuel purchases. In the long run, solar and hydropower offer both economic and environmental advantages. The Galgu plant is expected to boost electricity supply in Yendi and communities along the Eastern Corridor, while also extending BPA’s renewable footprint further across Ghana. The newest capacity additions are set to be commissioned into the national grid soon, further strengthening Ghana’s energy resilience and supporting the country’s clean energy transition. BPA Solar Capacity at a Glance: Solar PV within operational area (since 2020): ≈ 200 MWp of which floating PV on the Black Volta: 5 MWp Galgu, Yendi Municipality (first project outside operational area): 50 MWp Combined BPA solar portfolio: ≈ 250 MWp Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Seeks to Deepen Energy Ties with Russia at Russia-Africa Summit
As the Russia-Africa Summit approached, President John Dramani Mahama found himself reflecting on Ghana’s longstanding relationship with Russia. With a bilateral meeting scheduled with President Vladimir Putin, Mahama was eager to explore new frontiers in cooperation, especially in the energy sector. Ghana, already a powerhouse in West Africa, supplies electricity to neighboring countries like Togo, Burkina Faso, and Benin, and maintains power exchanges with Côte d’Ivoire. But President Mahama knew that relying solely on traditional energy sources would not be enough for the future. He envisioned a more diverse energy landscape for Ghana, one that included solar power and, ambitiously, nuclear energy. “The solidarity between Ghana and Russia is one that is historic,” Mahama remarked as he prepared for the summit. “We believe that the time has come for us to bring it back to that level, and that’s why I personally agreed to come myself for the Russia-Africa Summit.” For Mahama, the upcoming conversation with President Putin was more than a diplomatic formality. It was an opportunity to tap into Russia’s advanced technological expertise and to invite Russian investment into Ghana’s burgeoning energy sector. “We’re looking forward to the bilateral meeting with President Putin because I think that that meeting will open up new areas of cooperation. For instance, in the area of energy, Ghana is one of the leading producers of power. And so we’re looking at alternative energy sources like solar, we’re even looking at nuclear, adding nuclear to our energy mix,” he explained. Confident that Russia’s support could help propel Ghana’s energy ambitions, President Mahama was optimistic about the summit’s outcomes. “I know that Russia has advanced technology in some of these things and so we’re looking forward to that meeting and I’m sure that after the meeting it will draw our relationship even closer in terms of investments and in terms of economic relations.” As the summit drew near, hopes were high that the historic ties between Ghana and Russia would be rekindled, this time, with the power to light up a brighter, more sustainable future for both nations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com