Africa’s Richest Man Says He’d Rather Go to Prison Than Give Up His Phone
At a glittering event in Lagos, Nigeria, Aliko Dangote, the continent’s wealthiest man, stood before a crowd of business leaders and journalists. The air was thick with anticipation as he unveiled his ambitious Vision 2030 plan. But it wasn’t just Dangote’s plans for industrial expansion that fascinated the audience; it was a surprising confession about his most prized possession: his mobile phone. During a spirited question-and-answer session, Dangote was presented with a dilemma. If forced to choose, would he rather spend a week apart from his beloved mobile phone or give up access to his luxurious private jet? Without hesitation, the billionaire made his stance clear. “I think it’s easier you put me in prison than to take my phone away. So, you know, I mean taking my phone away is no-go area, okay?” Dangote declared, drawing laughter and applause from the audience. The remark revealed just how essential his phone is to his daily life, a tool he simply cannot live without. The audience’s curiosity turned to what made the device so indispensable. Dangote revealed that his mobile phone holds more than 13,000 contacts, a testament to the vast network he has cultivated over decades. “I have had that mobile number since 2000. I have more than 13,000 contacts on my phone,” he shared, explaining that he rarely blocks anyone and is always willing to answer calls, no matter who is on the other end. “I hardly…I don’t like blocking people, so a lot of people have my number. I answer my calls.” But who is the man behind this ever-buzzing phone? Aliko Dangote is the chairman of the Dangote Group—one of Africa’s largest industrial conglomerates, with interests ranging from cement and fertilizer production to oil refining. His empire has made him one of the continent’s most influential industrialists, shaping the future of manufacturing and energy from Nigeria to beyond. Dangote’s ambitions have recently extended to Kenya, where construction of his $16 billion oil refinery in Lamu County was officially launched. The massive facility, designed to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil daily, promises to reduce East Africa’s reliance on imported fuel and create thousands of new jobs. For Dangote, it seems, success is built on staying connected. His mobile phone, always within reach, is more than just a device; it’s a lifeline to the relationships and opportunities that continue to drive Africa’s richest man forward. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Attorney-General Challenges Court’s Decision in Hanan Abdul-Wahab Case
In a dramatic turn of events in the trial of former National Food and Buffer Stock Company CEO, Hanan Abdul-Wahab, and his wife, Faiza Sediu Wuni, the Attorney-General has stepped in to contest a recent ruling by the Court of Appeal. The case, which has captured public attention, took a new twist after the Court of Appeal, led by Justice Noble Nkrumah and supported by Justices Lydia Osei Marfo and George Boadi, ordered a stay of proceedings in the ongoing trial. This decision came after legal arguments presented by Godfred Dame on behalf of Hanan Abdul-Wahab. The panel agreed that Dame’s application raised exceptional circumstances, particularly highlighting the critical role of a charge sheet in criminal trials and the necessity of addressing any challenge to it swiftly and thoroughly. However, the Attorney-General found the ruling unsatisfactory and has filed an appeal to overturn it. In the appeal, the Attorney-General contends that the Court of Appeal made an error in granting the stay and in characterizing challenges to a charge sheet as exceptional circumstances. The prosecution is seeking several remedies, including an order to quash the Court of Appeal’s decision and a directive for the High Court to resume the trial without further delay. As the legal battle continues, the outcome of the Attorney-General’s appeal will determine the next chapter in this high-profile case. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Issues New Directives to Protect Workers in Contract Mining Transition
A new chapter is unfolding in Ghana’s mining sector as the government unveils a set of robust policy directives designed to protect workers’ rights and welfare during the nation’s transition from owner mining to contract mining. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, in a press release dated October 21, 2026, announced the measures as part of a wider effort to ensure the effective implementation of Ghana’s contract mining policy. The directives make it clear: indigenous Ghanaian companies will now take the lead on contract mining for surface operations, while underground mining contracts will require a partnership model in which Ghanaian-owned companies must hold at least a 50% stake. This provision has already found its way into the 6th Edition of the Local Procurement List, effective January 1, 2025, under the Minerals and Mining (Local Content and Local Participation) Regulations, 2020 (LI 2431). Most multinational mining companies, the ministry noted, have already brought their operations into compliance. Yet the transition has not been without concern. The Ghana Mineworkers’ Union, along with human resource experts and other stakeholders, raised important questions about how the policy shift might affect workers’ salaries, wages, and overall conditions of service. In response, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission engaged in consultations with union leaders, industry experts, and other relevant groups. Through these discussions, the regulatory and policy intent behind contract mining was clarified. Crucially, the government reaffirmed its commitment that no worker would be worse off because of these changes. According to the directive, every Ghanaian contract mining worker must receive salaries, wages, allowances, benefits, and incentives equivalent to what was paid to owner mining workers for comparable roles before the transition. To back this up, the government has instructed the Minerals Commission to ensure no worker engaged by a mining contractor or service provider suffers any reduction in pay, benefits, or working conditions as a result of the new arrangements. The Commission has also been tasked with harmonising salaries, wages, and service conditions across the mining industry value chain, and to categorise eligible contractors based on their capacity to provide mining-related services. These new safeguards complement existing regulatory requirements and do not restrict the Minerals Commission from taking further lawful steps to advance the objectives of the Minerals and Mining (Local Content and Local Participation) Regulations, 2020 (LI 2431). The Commission faces a deadline of November 30, 2026, to finalise the necessary processes and submit all required documentation for approval. The Ministry’s message is unequivocal: there will be zero tolerance for unfair labour practices, cartelisation, bid rigging, fronting, or any other behaviour that undermines local content objectives or harms Ghanaian workers. “The Government remains resolute in ensuring fairness, transparency, genuine Ghanaian participation and the protection of workers across the mining industry value chain,” the statement concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ministry of Health Rolls Out Robust Measures to Shield Ghana from Ebola Threat
The Ministry of Health, under the leadership of Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has moved quickly as news of Ebola outbreaks in Kenya, Nigeria, and other African countries sends ripples of concern across Ghana. With Nigeria just a border away, the threat feels especially close to home. To keep the deadly virus at bay, the Ministry has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to protect the nation. In a press release signed by Minister Akandoh, Ghanaians learned of a series of enhanced preventive measures. Working hand-in-hand with key authorities, the Ministry is ramping up surveillance at all points of entry, including the implementation of stronger screening protocols at airports. Travelers arriving in Ghana are now met with heightened health checks and clear instructions on what to do if symptoms arise. But the Ministry isn’t stopping at the borders. Minister Akandoh shared that simulation exercises are being carried out at the Accra International Airport and the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre. These drills, he explained, are designed to stress-test Ghana’s readiness to handle suspected Ebola cases. Health officials are also closely monitoring visitors from high-risk areas throughout their stay in the country, in strict adherence to public health protocols. The preparedness extends to Ghana’s laboratories as well. The Ministry is updating Standard Operating Procedures and ensuring that healthcare workers across the nation are sensitised and trained to spot, respond to, and manage potential Ebola cases swiftly and appropriately. Public education is taking center stage. Travellers at the Accra International Airport receive vital information about Ebola prevention, symptoms, and the steps to take if illness develops. The goal, as Minister Akandoh emphasized, is to strengthen the country’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond rapidly to any potential Ebola threat. The Minister also took the opportunity to educate the public about the disease itself. “Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person, or contaminated materials. It is not airborne,” he clarified. Symptoms of Ebola can appear anywhere from 2 to 21 days after exposure, with the average onset between 8 and 10 days. Early signs include high fever, severe headache, extreme fatigue, sore throat, and chills, followed by more severe symptoms such as unexplained bleeding and confusion. “Anyone who falls ill and experiences these symptoms after traveling to an affected area, or after contact with a suspected or confirmed case, should seek immediate medical attention and share their travel history with health workers,” the Minister advised. Travellers from affected countries will be monitored for 21 days to ensure their health and the safety of those around them. Finally, the Ministry urged everyone to practice good hand hygiene, avoid contact with anyone showing signs of unexplained illness, and not to spread unverified information. Instead, they encouraged citizens to rely on official channels for updates and guidance as Ghana stands united against the threat of Ebola. The Ministry of Heath led by Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has outlined measures to prevent any occurence of the deadly Ebola in Ghana. These measures are being implemented after reports of Ebola cases in Kenya, Nigeria and other African countries which, to the Ghanaian populace, comes close to Ghana especially when Nigeria remains one of the closest neighbouring countries. In a press release signed by the Minister, the Health Ministry in collaboration with the relevant authorities is ensuring an “enhanced surveillance at points of entry including strengthened airport screening measures”. Hon. Mintah Akandoh further disclosed the measures to include “simulation exercises at the Accra International Airport and the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre to assess and improve readiness to respond to suspected cases. Follow-up with travellers from high-risk areas throughout their stay in Ghana, in line with public health protocols. Strengthen laboratory preparedness, including updating Standard Operating Procedures” and sensitise healthcare workers to “enhance awareness, preparedness, and appropriate management of suspected cases”. Furthermore, public education and risk communication at the Accra International Airport is being provided to travellers with “relevant information on Ebola prevention and the actions to take if symptoms develop”. These measures, the Minister noted, are aimed at strengthening Ghana’s capacity to “prevent, detect, and respond to any potential Ebola case”. He also conscientised the general public to carefully note the signs and symptoms of this lethal disease, stating that “Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person, or with contaminated materials. It is not airborne”. “Ebola virus disease symptoms typically start 2 to 21 days (average 8 to 10 days) after exposure. These include high-grade fever, severe headache, extreme fatigue, sore throat, chills and later unexplained bleeding and confusion.” He cautioned “anyone who falls ill and has any of the above symptoms after travelling to an affected area, or after contact with a suspected or confirmed case, should seek prompt medical care and disclose their travel history to health workers”. Also, “travellers from affected areas would have their health monitored for 21 days”. The Health Ministry urged the public to “practise good hand hygiene and avoid contact with anyone showing unexplained fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or bleeding” and “do not spread unverified information. Follow official updates from health authorities”. Read full statement below: PRESS RELEASE Ebola Update- Enhanced Surveillance and Response Measures Following Ebola Outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya and Nigeria The Ministry of Health, with its relevant agencies and partners, wishes to update the public on measures Ghana is implementing in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the subsequent report of cases in Kenya and Nigeria. On 6 October 2026, Kenyan authorities reported an imported case of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus from the DRC. As of 17 October 2026, authorities reported six additional cases, all linked to the initial case, including among healthcare workers. On 20th October, Nigerian authorities also reported a confirmed case of Ebola in the Federal Capital Territory. Although Ghana has not reported any Ebola case, the Ministry of Health, through the Ghana Health Service and other agencies and partners, is
President Mahama Urges Africa to Harness Critical Minerals Boom for Industrial Transformation
At the opening of the 2026 Mining in Motion Conference at Destiny Arena, President John Dramani Mahama delivered a rallying call to African nations: seize the global surge in demand for critical minerals and use it as a springboard for industrial development. Addressing an audience of industry leaders, policymakers, and investors, President Mahama underscored the need for Africa to move beyond the traditional model of extracting and exporting raw materials. Instead, he advocated for local processing, the development of manufacturing capacity, and the creation of stronger links between the continent’s mineral resources and its domestic industries. “For minerals, this means owning our own resources, extracting them responsibly, and processing them domestically and competitively. It also means linking our mineral value chains to industries that our economies need,” President Mahama stated. He pointed out that the global shift toward cleaner energy is driving up demand for critical minerals—a trend that presents Africa with a unique opportunity to secure a stronger position in manufacturing, supported by investment in skills, technology, and robust supply networks. President Mahama highlighted Ghana’s proactive steps in this direction, referencing the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) and the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC). These initiatives aim to create integrated value chains that link mineral extraction to local processing and production, setting a blueprint for other African countries. “As global demand for critical minerals continues to grow, capturing more value at home will be vital,” President Mahama concluded. “Africa must take greater ownership of its resources and ensure that they contribute meaningfully to our industrial future.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Court of Appeal Grants Stay in Hanan Abdul Wahab Case, Halting NAFCO CEO’s Trial Pending Appeal
The Court of Appeal has granted a stay of proceedings in the criminal trial of former Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) Chief Executive Officer, Hanan Abdul Wahab, effectively pausing the High Court case until the determination of his appeal challenging the charges against him. The application for a stay was moved by Hanan’s legal team, led by former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame and Richard Gyambiby. They argued that the appeal raised fundamental issues regarding the accused’s right to a fair trial, particularly concerning the adequacy of information provided in the charge sheet. Dame pointed out that several counts, specifically counts 3, 13, and 18 related to stealing, and counts 1 and 14 concerning defrauding by false pretences, lacked sufficient details. For example, on count 3, the prosecution alleged Hanan stole approximately GH¢50 million over a period spanning 2017 to 2025, grouping multiple transactions into a single charge. Dame contended that the absence of specific transaction details made it difficult for the accused to mount a proper defence. He also highlighted that while the prosecution’s summary referenced 86 transactions, the charge sheet itself did not specify them. On charges of defrauding by false pretences, Dame argued that the prosecution had not detailed the alleged false representations, undermining the accused’s ability to respond adequately to the allegations. Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem-Sai, representing the Republic, strongly opposed the application. He contended that no exceptional circumstances had been shown to justify a stay and maintained that grouping similar offences over a prolonged period is permissible under the law. Dr Srem-Sai asserted that disagreement with the trial judge’s decision was not, on its own, a valid reason to halt proceedings and warned that granting a stay could unduly delay justice if the appeal did not succeed. After hearing both sides, the three-member panel of the Court of Appeal, presided over by Justice Noble Nkrumah and including Justices Lydia Osei Marfo and George Boadi, ruled in favour of the defence. The court emphasised the critical role of the charge sheet in criminal proceedings and found that the issues raised by Hanan’s lawyers amounted to exceptional circumstances justifying a pause in the trial. This decision puts on hold the High Court trial, which was set to begin on Tuesday, October 20, pending the outcome of Hanan Abdul Wahab’s appeal. The appeal itself challenges an earlier ruling by Justice Francis Achibonga, who had ordered amendments to two charges but refused to strike out the case entirely. The Court of Appeal’s ruling underscores the importance of due process and clarity in criminal charges, highlighting that the structure and content of the charge sheet are foundational to a fair trial. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
AU Commissioner Urges Africa to Prioritise Value Addition and Industrialisation for Mineral Wealth
African Union Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, Francisca Tatchououp Belobe, has urged African nations to place value addition and industrial development at the heart of their mineral resource strategies, in a push to fully harness the continent’s mineral wealth. Speaking at the Mining in Motion Conference on Monday, October 19, Ms Belobe emphasised the need for African countries to assert greater ownership over their mineral development priorities. She called on leaders to ensure that the exploitation of Africa’s abundant resources drives inclusive economic growth and strengthens regional value chains. “Africa must strengthen its agency to define its own mineral development agenda. In a time when major economies are developing critical mineral structures around their industrial priorities, Africa must define its own priorities,” Ms Belobe stated. She stressed that the continent must not only own its mineral resources, but also shape the narrative and partnerships that determine how these resources contribute to its development. Ms Belobe highlighted the African Union’s Green Minerals Strategy, adopted in 2025, as a central tool for achieving these goals. The strategy places African industrialisation, energy security, and regional value chains at the core of mineral policy across the continent. However, she cautioned that these ambitions must be matched by real investment and action. “Stronger continental leadership and a clear focus on value addition will be essential to ensuring that Africa’s mineral resources contribute more directly to its industrial growth and economic transformation,” she concluded.
Asantehene Endorses President Mahama’s Reset Agenda, Hails Push for Local Mineral Value Addition
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has thrown his weight behind President John Dramani Mahama’s reset agenda, describing the government’s emphasis on local value addition to Ghana’s mineral resources as a vital step toward true economic transformation. Delivering the endorsement on behalf of the Asantehene at the Mining in Motion conference on Monday, October 19, Nana Okyere Kusi Ntrama, Essumejahene, commended the administration’s determination to shift Ghana away from the export of raw minerals toward domestic processing and industrialisation. He argued that the approach to mineral governance championed by the reset agenda could help the country break free from the cycle of poverty by retaining more value from its natural resources. Nana Okyere Kusi Ntrama highlighted that, since assuming office, President Mahama’s reset agenda has prioritised greater national control over mineral wealth and the development of local processing capacity. “The focus on what Ghana produces from its mineral resources, rather than merely exporting them in their raw state, reflects a long-standing national aspiration to use our natural wealth to drive industrial development,” he stressed. Referencing the ongoing debates surrounding the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), he urged that such controversies should not distract from the core objectives of the agenda. “Regardless of the controversies surrounding the Gold Board, there should be no doubt that the nature of the President’s reset agenda takes us right back to the very foundation of our republic, when Dr. Kwame Nkrumah sought to harness our minerals and move to establish a gold refinery in Tarkwa,” he said. Nana Okyere Kusi Ntrama concluded that the current mineral policy direction presents Ghana with a renewed opportunity to build on its legacy by strengthening domestic value addition and ensuring the country secures greater economic benefits from its resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Unveils Plan to Ban Raw Mineral Exports by 2030, Boost Local Processing
President John Dramani Mahama has announced a transformative policy that will see Ghana gradually ban the export of unprocessed mineral ores by 2030, marking a decisive push toward local value addition and industrialisation. Speaking at the Mining in Motion Conference on Monday, October 19, 2026, President Mahama outlined the government’s intention to introduce a phased prohibition on raw mineral exports, targeting key resources including bauxite, manganese, iron, and lithium. This bold move, he explained, is part of a broader effort to ensure that Ghana’s mineral wealth directly supports domestic economic development. “I’ve set a clear goal that by 2030, raw mineral ores should no longer leave our shores. Our bauxite, manganese, iron, lithium, and other minerals must support processing and industrial development here at home,” President Mahama declared, drawing applause from stakeholders and industry leaders present. To realise this vision, the government plans to roll out a comprehensive framework of legal measures, mineral-specific requirements, and transparent implementation timelines. President Mahama also made it clear that investors interested in Ghana’s mineral sector would be required to adhere to strict processing obligations, ensuring that the benefits of the country’s resources remain within its borders. “We will pursue a phased prohibition on exports of unprocessed ores, supported by the necessary legal measures, mineral-specific requirements, and transparent implementation timetables. We have already imposed a ban on the export of iron scrap and non-ferrous metals. Investors must understand the processing obligations associated with access to our resources,” he said. President Mahama stressed that this policy shift is designed to build Ghana’s local processing capacity, fuel industrial growth, and secure a larger share of the economic benefits for the nation. With the 2030 deadline approaching, Ghana is poised to enter a new era in mineral resource management—one where value is created and retained at home. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
UHAS Vice Chancellor Hails Ghana Medical Trust Fund as Lifeline for Cancer Patients
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Professor Lydia Aziato, has praised the creation of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, describing it as a crucial step in relieving the heavy financial burdens faced by cancer and chronic disease patients in Ghana. Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement in Ho, Professor Aziato, herself an experienced oncology and chronic-care nurse, drew from her professional background and research to highlight the dire challenges patients endure. “The cost of cancer treatment remains a major challenge for many patients,” she noted, adding that these difficulties often lead individuals to delay medical care or seek spiritual interventions before turning to professional treatment. Recounting stories from her research, Prof. Aziato shared the harrowing experiences of cancer patients. She recalled one breast cancer patient who was left traumatized after a blunt diagnosis and the prospect of immediate surgery, a scenario she said is all too common. “Some of our women, when they realise they have an anomaly, first go to the church to pray for a miracle,” Prof. Aziato explained, emphasizing that while prayer has its place, it should not replace medical intervention. She stressed that the high costs of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and related treatments put lifesaving care out of reach for many. Prof. Aziato expressed hope that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund would support patients unable to afford essential treatments, making a tangible difference in their lives. Welcoming the government’s free primary healthcare initiative as well, she underscored its potential to drive early detection and treatment. “Early detection of cancer significantly improves patients’ chances of survival,” she said, citing her research in which some women diagnosed early survived more than twenty years after their diagnosis. Prof. Aziato urged Ghanaians not to ignore warning signs or assume immunity to cancer, encouraging prompt medical attention for unusual bodily changes. “I want us to detect early because we cannot say we will not get it,” she cautioned. Drawing on her years of research and firsthand encounters with patients, Prof. Aziato reiterated the urgent need for stronger support systems: “Some of the women suffer greatly. You see their breasts like cauliflower, with wounds that bleed.” She expressed deep appreciation to the government for establishing the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, believing it could provide critical support to ordinary Ghanaians struggling with the costs of specialised care. Source: Apexnewsgh.com