Motorists Face Fuel Price Hike from July 16 as Global Tensions Push Up Costs
Motorists across Ghana should prepare to pay more at the pump starting Thursday, July 16, as the prices of petrol, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are set to rise in the second pricing window of July. According to the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), petrol prices are projected to climb by between 3.79% and 5.31%, with the average price at the pump likely reaching around GHS14.52 per litre. Diesel is also expected to increase, selling at about GHS16.00 per litre after a rise of approximately seven pesewas per litre. LPG will see a more modest adjustment, with prices anticipated to rise by between 1.10% and 1.30% per kilogram. COMAC attributed the looming price hikes to renewed geopolitical tensions that have unsettled global oil markets. Concerns over potential disruptions to crude oil supplies and shipping, especially through the critical Strait of Hormuz, have driven up international prices for crude and refined petroleum products. The situation has been further compounded by a slight weakening of the Ghana cedi, which depreciated by 0.55% against the US dollar during the pricing period, adding upward pressure on local fuel costs. The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has responded by revising its price floors upwards for the period. The minimum price for petrol has increased from GHS12.79 to GHS13.28 per litre, while diesel’s minimum price has risen from GHS13.54 to GHS14.35 per litre. These developments mark an unexpected shift from earlier forecasts, which had suggested that fuel prices might fall during this window, based on previous trends in international oil prices and currency movements. Instead, motorists will have to brace for higher costs as global and local factors converge to push up prices. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Final Evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa Set for July 25, Says High Commissioner
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, has announced that the final evacuation of about 900 Ghanaian nationals will commence on July 25. This group, he revealed, consists of individuals who have voluntarily opted to return to Ghana following a wave of recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Speaking to members of the Ghanaian community in South Africa on Tuesday, July 14, Mr. Quashie described the upcoming operation as the concluding phase of the government’s comprehensive evacuation programme. Earlier phases have already seen the safe return of approximately 926 Ghanaians, with the forthcoming exercise set to complete the government’s response to the crisis. The high commissioner credited the successful organisation of the repatriation to the collaborative efforts of the Office of the President and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He emphasised that the initiative was a direct response to mounting concerns over the safety and welfare of Ghanaians targeted by the attacks. “We are going to do the final repatriation of close to 900 Ghanaians who have voluntarily given their names here in South Africa that they want to go,” Mr. Quashie stated. He explained that the evacuation would be conducted in phases, with flights scheduled daily until all registered individuals have been returned home. Mr. Quashie also expressed his appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for their leadership in facilitating the evacuations. He described the government’s intervention as a clear demonstration of its unwavering commitment to protecting the welfare of Ghanaians abroad, particularly in times of crisis. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Cabinet Reverses Course: Achimota Forest to Regain Full Protected Status
It was a decision that sent ripples through Ghana’s environmental and civic circles. On May 1, 2022, Executive Instrument 144 (E.I. 144) came into effect, carving out 361.5 acres, about 146 hectares of the cherished Achimota Forest from its protected status. Detailed survey maps outlined the precise areas to be removed, raising alarm among environmentalists and citizens alike. The move triggered immediate and widespread debate: many feared that lifting protection would open the door to commercial and residential projects, threatening one of Greater Accra’s last urban forests. Environmental advocates, civil society organisations, and concerned residents spoke out, warning of the consequences for the city’s ecological balance and the generations to come. Now, the tide has turned. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced a dramatic policy reversal: Cabinet has ordered the immediate repeal of Executive Instrument 144. This decision clears the path for Achimota Forest to be fully restored to its original status as a Forest Reserve. The revocation also covers subsequent amendments, such as E.I. 234, ensuring that every acre previously excised will once again be protected. Minister Armah-Kofi Buah emphasized that the government’s priority is to safeguard Achimota Forest, highlighting its critical role in protecting Accra’s environment. The forest, he noted, is not just a green space, it is a vital ecological buffer for the capital, supporting biodiversity, enhancing air quality, absorbing carbon, regulating temperatures, and serving as a beloved recreational haven for city dwellers. With this decision, Achimota Forest is set to remain a sanctuary for both nature and people, securing its place in the heart of Accra’s future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Inactiveness of BOST Bolgatanga Depot Sparks Concern Over Unemployment and Alleged Corruption
The Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST) once established its Bolgatanga depot as a strategic export hub, designed to serve landlocked Sahelian countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Beyond its international role, the facility has long provided a secure and localized fuel supply for northern Ghana, reducing the burden of heavy tanker traffic on the nation’s major roads and supporting the local economy. But today, the gates of the Bolgatanga depot remain partially inactive, and the community is feeling the consequences. In an interview with ApexNewsGH, Mr. Sumaila Abubakari, a local fuel dealer who says he worked at the BOST Bolgatanga depot, voiced his concerns about the ongoing closure. According to Mr. Sumaila, some filling station and tanker owners routinely travel to Accra, where, he claims, they bribe top officials to allow them to make their fuel runs from Accra instead of using the Bolgatanga depot for distribution to surrounding districts like Bawku and Navrongo. Mr. Suumaila described the situation with a heavy heart. “The inactivity here is creating a lot of unemployment among the youth in our region. Many families depend on the depot for their livelihoods, drivers, loaders, cleaners, and small businesses all rely on its operations. With the depot closed, people are struggling to make ends meet.” He expressed frustration at watching his community’s economic prospects dwindle while trucks bypass the depot, traveling long distances to Accra unnecessarily. “It’s painful to see. This depot was meant to serve us, create jobs, and make fuel distribution easier, but now it feels like we’ve been forgotten,” he lamented. Meanwhile, efforts by ApexNewsGH to get answers from the BOST regional manager in Bolgatanga were unsuccessful. The manager referred their reporter to the head office in Accra. When ApexNewsGH finally reached officials at the Accra office, they learned that the Bolgatanga depot is currently undergoing an upgrade. For now, the community waits, hoping that the upgrades will bring the Bolgatanga depot back to life, restore local jobs, and reaffirm its importance as both a regional asset and strategic export hub. But until then, frustration and uncertainty linger, as residents wonder when the depot’s gates will once again open for business. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Health Minister Announces NHIS Tariff Increase, Warns Against Illegal Charges
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that tariffs under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) will be increased effective August 2026. The adjustment is part of the government’s efforts to sustain the scheme and ensure healthcare providers receive adequate reimbursements for services rendered to NHIS subscribers. Addressing Parliament’s Assurance Committee, Mr. Akandoh highlighted that the Mahama administration is also facilitating the timely transfer of funds from the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) to support prompt payment of claims. “I’m happy to announce that very soon, we are going to increase the tariffs of the National Health Insurance. I think in August it’s going to start,” he confirmed. The Minister also expressed concern over illegal charges, known as “co-payment,” imposed on NHIS subscribers by some healthcare providers. He described these practices as fraudulent and warned that offenders would be prosecuted. “We have detected this kind of co-payment, which is an illegal payment. We are even prosecuting some of them. We have arrested some, they are under prosecution,” he said. Akandoh urged service providers to comply with NHIS regulations and stressed that authorities will continue monitoring health facilities to eliminate illegal charges. “I will plead with all service providers that let us do the right thing because we are on the ground, and we will come after you,” he cautioned. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GES Orders Temporary Closure of Yendi Schools to Honour Late Dagbon Overlord
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced the temporary closure of all public and private schools within the Yendi Municipality to allow students and staff to observe the funeral rites of the late Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II. In a statement released on Tuesday, July 14, the GES said the directive took effect from midday Monday, July 13, and will remain in force until Thursday, July 16. Full academic activities are expected to resume on Friday, July 17. The Service explained that the decision followed consultations with the Northern Regional Director of Education, the Director-General of GES, the Yendi Municipal Chief Executive, and the Gbewaa Palace. The closure aims to honour the late King and show respect for the cultural heritage and traditions of the Dagbon people during the mourning period. GES instructed all students and staff within the municipality to observe the mourning, expressing confidence that parents, school authorities, and stakeholders would cooperate with the directive. Yendi Municipal Chief Executive Muniru Sogri confirmed the decision to Citi News, explaining that the government approved the closure to enable residents, including the school community, to participate in activities marking the passing of the Dagbon Overlord. “Following the demise of the King of Dagbon, the Overlord, Yaa-Naa Abukari II, a decision was taken that to mourn the death of the King, public schools and also private schools have to close down,” he said. Meanwhile, the Dagbon Traditional Council has announced that the third-day Islamic prayers for the late Yaa-Naa Abukari II will be held at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi on Thursday, July 16, at 10:00 a.m. The Council has invited the public to attend and offer prayers for the late Dagbon Overlord. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Supreme Court Halts Reinstatement of GN Savings and Loans Licence Pending Appeal
The Supreme Court has suspended the enforcement of a Court of Appeal ruling that directed the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to restore the operating licence of GN Savings and Loans Limited. This decision means that the Court of Appeal’s order will not take effect until the Supreme Court hears and determines the appeal filed by the central bank. The Bank of Ghana had appealed the earlier ruling, which ordered it to reinstate the licence of GN Savings and Loans after it was revoked as part of the country’s financial sector clean-up exercise. With the stay of execution granted, the current status remains unchanged, and the central bank is not required to restore the company’s licence while the appeal is pending. The Supreme Court will now consider whether the Bank of Ghana acted lawfully in revoking the licence and whether the Court of Appeal was justified in ordering its reinstatement. The final decision will determine whether the Court of Appeal’s judgment is upheld or overturned. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Paul Afoko Forgives NPP Over Suspension, Urges Unity Amid Party Challenges
A national chairman aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Afoko, has declared that he has forgiven those involved in his suspension from the party, despite initially feeling anger and disappointment over the decision. Afoko was suspended as NPP National Chairman in October 2015, a year after his election, following a recommendation from the party’s Disciplinary Committee and subsequent approval by the National Executive Committee (NEC). During the formal launch of his chairmanship bid and vision for the NPP on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Afoko reflected on the emotional impact of his suspension. “I wouldn’t lie that I wasn’t angry at some point. I was. Because I was angry that a mandate given to me by the party was yanked away from me by a few people,” he admitted. However, Afoko emphasized that he had moved on, stating, “I have forgiven completely. God knows my heart. My heart is clean and clear.” Afoko stressed that the party’s current challenges require members to put aside personal grievances and focus on collective recovery. “The state of the party will not allow us to dwell on emotions. Emotions must give way to thinking, to strategic thinking, to how we can help our party to come out of this situation,” he said. He cautioned against negative factionalism, warning that internal divisions could undermine the NPP’s prospects. “Anybody who sits within this party and thinks that factionalism is good for the party, and I mean the negative aspects of factionalism, that person doesn’t love NPP,” Afoko noted. He urged for healthy debate within the party, arguing that respectful disagreements can generate stronger policies and strategies. Reflecting on the NPP’s declining parliamentary seats in recent elections, Afoko said the party must prioritise unity over personal differences. “We came from 169 seats to 137 to 87. Is this a wonderful place to be for the NPP? It cannot be,” he said, calling on members to work together to rebuild the party. “As a party, let’s be true to ourselves. Let’s be truthful and speak to each other with love and understanding that we want to bring ourselves out of this hole in which we are,” Afoko urged. “I’m ready to serve. There’s no more bitterness. There’s no more anger.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Nears Completion of Debt Restructuring with Successful Exchange of SADEREA Notes
Ghana has taken a major step toward completing its external debt restructuring programme after successfully exchanging the outstanding Savings and Development Economic Recovery Agreement (SADEREA) Notes, the Ministry of Finance announced. According to the Ministry, the transaction was settled on Monday, July 13, 2026, with a value date of July 10, 2026, marking the resolution of the last outstanding component of Ghana’s sovereign bonded debt restructuring. In a statement, the Ministry described the successful exchange as a significant milestone in the country’s economic recovery efforts. The SADEREA Notes, 12.5% Senior Secured Amortising Bonds, were originally issued to finance capital expenditure in Ghana’s health sector. The original issuance totaled US$253.2 million, with about US$117.8 million in principal remaining as of January 2026. The Ministry emphasized that completing the exchange demonstrates the government’s commitment to restoring debt sustainability, boosting investor confidence, and maintaining macroeconomic stability. This achievement comes as part of Ghana’s broader debt restructuring efforts, aimed at reducing debt burdens and restoring fiscal sustainability after a period of severe economic challenges, including high debt levels and constrained access to international capital markets. The Ministry of Finance reaffirmed its commitment to prudent debt and public financial management to safeguard Ghana’s long-term economic stability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
US-Iran Tensions Keep Ghana’s Fuel Market on Edge
Renewed tensions between the United States and Iran are putting Ghana’s fuel market on high alert, as uncertainty in the Middle East threatens the stability of petroleum prices, according to the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC). COMAC CEO Dr. Riverson Oppong told the media that ongoing developments in the region are fueling volatility in global crude oil markets. However, he expressed optimism that prices would not surge past $100 per barrel. “We’re just hoping, and fingers crossed that this does not escalate the price above $100, which I believe we’re not going to see,” Oppong told Citi News. Dr. Oppong explained that COMAC had earlier projected crude oil prices would stay in the $70-$80 range if geopolitical conditions remained stable. “I was optimistic with the forecasts… We came to $74, $75, and it is still within the forecast that was made because the concern was that if everything was equal, that’s what we were going to see in the market,” he said. He acknowledged that geopolitical decisions by world leaders make accurate forecasting challenging, noting, “In forecasting, nobody can predict the mindset of any leader who is geopolitically strong like Trump. That’s the only disadvantage we have during our forecasting.” Dr. Oppong added that, under normal conditions, crude prices could have dropped further, possibly to between $65 and $67 per barrel. He also revealed that renewed instability has triggered panic buying of fuel in Ghana, but assured consumers that the country currently has enough stocks. “We’ve observed panic buying, but it is not anything to worry about. We still have stocks in the country,” he said. He criticized some businesses for increasing fuel prices prematurely in anticipation of higher import costs, calling the move unjustified since the products were imported earlier at lower prices. He explained that while panic buying is unlikely to directly impact consumers, it may be intended to safeguard the revenues of oil marketing companies. Global oil markets remain volatile as investors closely watch US-Iran developments, with fears that any escalation could disrupt supplies and drive up energy prices worldwide. Source: Apexnewsgh.com