Federation of Ghana Traders Calls for Dialogue on Traffitech Rollout and Bus Stop Removals
The Federation of Ghana Traders has called on the government to open dialogue with commercial drivers and transport stakeholders amid rising concerns over the implementation of the Traffitech system and the removal of traders and hawkers from bus stops nationwide. In a statement signed by its founder, Takyi Addo, the federation urged authorities to ensure that any enforcement actions at bus stops remain the responsibility of local government officials. “It will be unlawful for commercial drivers to embark on vigilante acts of removing traders from the bus stops. This is the work of the local government authorities,” the federation warned, emphasizing that such enforcement should not fall to private operators. The statement further encouraged the government to engage with commercial drivers and their leadership to address their concerns, foster compliance, and ensure that the rollout of new policies proceeds in an orderly and inclusive manner. Acknowledging that traders and hawkers do not have the legal right to operate at bus stops, the federation nonetheless insisted that, “it’s equally not right for commercial drivers to remove them.” The group called for effective communication and coordination among all relevant authorities, transport operators, and the trading community to prevent disruptions that could impact businesses and consumers alike. On the subject of Traffitech, a technological intervention aimed at improving transport management and enforcement, the federation recognized its potential benefits but stressed that any such system must be introduced alongside broad stakeholder engagement, public education, and clear operational guidelines. The Federation of Ghana Traders closed its statement by appealing for a resolution of traders’ concerns and urging all parties to act responsibly in the national interest. “We remain committed to constructive engagement with the government and all relevant stakeholders to protect the interests of traders and promote a stable business environment,” the statement concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minister Assures Akoefe Gadza of Improved Telecommunications: Major Rural Network Site Nears Completion
Residents of Akoefe Gadza and its neighboring communities received a major boost of hope this week as the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, visited the area with a promise to resolve their long-standing telecommunications challenges. During his tour of the community, Mr. Nartey George inspected an almost-completed rural telephony site located just a few metres from Akoefe Gadza. Standing before the chiefs, elders, and enthusiastic residents, the Minister explained that the project was part of a national push, championed by President John Dramani Mahama, to ensure every Ghanaian community enjoys reliable network coverage. “Just a few metres from here, we have a rural telephony site that is almost complete. The structure has been put up and, as we speak, the engineers are wrapping up and doing the ECG connection. I am confident that before the end of the weekend, that site will be up and it will boost the network in the area,” the Minister announced, earning applause from those gathered. He acknowledged the persistent efforts of both the Volta Regional Minister and the Member of Parliament for Ho Central, Richmond Edem Kofi Kpotosu, in advocating for better telecommunications infrastructure. With a touch of humor, Mr. Nartey George praised the MP’s tenacity: “Your MP does not sleep. He is constantly on my neck. I know it is not just me. When we meet in Cabinet and we talk about the troublesome MPs, his name always comes up. He is chasing every minister to make sure that we bring development to the people.” Mr. Nartey George assured the community that government intervention would not stop at improving network connectivity. Plans are also underway to enhance access to water, roads, and other essential amenities. He highlighted ongoing collaborations with the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) and the National Communications Authority (NCA) as well as major telecom operators like MTN and Telecel to address broader network challenges nationwide. He further revealed that the scale of telecommunication infrastructure being rolled out in 2026 far surpasses previous years. While approximately 600 new cell sites were constructed across Ghana in the last five years, this year alone is witnessing an even more ambitious infrastructure expansion. The Minister concluded his visit by pledging the government’s commitment to close the digital divide and bring reliable communication services to all, especially underserved communities. Accompanied by officials from GIFEC and other stakeholders, Mr. Nartey George’s visit left residents optimistic that Akoefe Gadza and its neighbors would soon enjoy the benefits of modern connectivity. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
RISE-Ghana Exposes Weak Unit Committees, Dysfunctional Area Council in Bolgatanga East
A new evaluation by RISE-Ghana has exposed significant weaknesses in grassroots governance in the Bolgatanga East District of the Upper East Region, raising concerns about the functionality of Unit Committees, community participation and the ability of residents to hold local authorities accountable. The assessment revealed that although Unit Committees exist across the district, many are only semi-functional, with some meeting infrequently, operating with fewer than the expected five members and lacking adequate training to perform their responsibilities effectively. The evaluation also found that Bolgatanga East, which has approximately 60 electoral areas, has only one Area Council, located at Zuarungu. The council was reportedly not holding meetings, raising further questions about the effectiveness of the district’s grassroots governance arrangements. The findings were presented to selected journalists by the Executive Director of RISE-Ghana, Awal Ahmed Kariama, as part of an evaluation conducted under the Evidence for Development (E4D) project, supported by the Centre for Democratic Development Ghana (CDD-Ghana). The initiative seeks to strengthen local government accountability, promote evidence-informed policymaking and improve the responsiveness of public institutions to the needs of citizens. One of the key findings was the limited functionality of Unit Committees, which are expected to serve as important links between communities and local government authorities. According to the evaluation, respondents described five-member Unit Committees operating at the electoral-area level, but their meeting frequency varied considerably, ranging from monthly meetings to gatherings held only twice a year. The assessment also identified gaps in committee membership, with some electoral areas having fewer than the expected five members. These shortcomings raise concerns about whether the committees have the membership, organisational capacity and consistency required to perform their responsibilities effectively. Unit Committees play an important role in grassroots governance. They are expected to help identify community needs, mobilise residents for development activities, monitor local projects and communicate concerns to the appropriate authorities. However, when committees meet irregularly or lack the capacity to carry out these functions, communities risk losing an important avenue for participating in decisions that affect their lives. The evaluation further indicated that some committee members had not received adequate orientation or training from the district assembly to enable them to understand and perform their duties effectively. This gap in capacity development could undermine the ability of the committees to engage residents, monitor development initiatives and contribute meaningfully to local decision-making. RISE-Ghana also identified a possible misunderstanding of the statutory responsibilities of Unit Committees among some members and community stakeholders. According to the findings, several respondents described the primary responsibility of Unit Committees as supporting Assembly Members. However, Ghana’s Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), provides for specific functions for local government structures, including responsibilities that extend beyond assisting elected Assembly Members. The evaluation suggests that this perception could limit the independence and effectiveness of Unit Committees in carrying out their own responsibilities. When committee members see themselves mainly as assistants to Assembly Members, their potential contribution to community mobilisation, local monitoring and accountability may not be fully realised. The assessment also raised concerns about community involvement in committee activities. A chief in Yarigabisi reportedly stated that he was not invited to Unit Committee meetings. The reported exclusion highlights the importance of ensuring that traditional authorities and other relevant community stakeholders have appropriate opportunities to participate in grassroots governance. For Unit Committees to function effectively, their activities must be sufficiently inclusive, with residents able to raise concerns, discuss development priorities and receive information about decisions affecting their communities. Beyond the challenges facing Unit Committees, the evaluation found that Bolgatanga East has only one Area Council, situated at Zuarungu, despite having approximately 60 electoral areas. Kariama observed that the district should have at least two Area Councils to support effective local administration and improve coordination of grassroots development activities. According to the evaluation, the Secretary to the District Planning Coordinating Unit stated that the Area Council did not hold meetings, while an Assembly Member described it as “not functioning at all”. An ineffective Area Council could weaken coordination between communities and the district assembly, particularly where local concerns require collective attention or follow-up. The situation raises questions about how effectively the existing structure serves communities across the district and whether adequate mechanisms are in place to ensure that local development concerns receive attention. The evaluation therefore points to the need for the district assembly to examine both the functionality and adequacy of its grassroots governance arrangements. Another concern identified by RISE-Ghana was the absence of a reliable, consolidated record of the district’s local government sub-structures. The assessment found that two senior respondents provided different figures for the number of electoral areas and Assembly Members. Additionally, no respondent could state the total number of Unit Committee members across the district. The inability to establish consistent figures raises concerns about the quality of information available to support planning, supervision and resource allocation. Accurate records are essential for determining whether all electoral areas have functioning committees, identifying vacancies, organising training and monitoring the performance of grassroots structures. Without reliable information, the district assembly may struggle to identify gaps and determine where support is most urgently required. For an evaluation focused on evidence-informed policymaking, the absence of a clear record of the structures expected to support grassroots governance represents a significant institutional challenge. RISE-Ghana’s findings point to the need for a comprehensive review and documentation of Unit Committees and other local government structures in the district. The evaluation also uncovered weaknesses in communication between communities and the district assembly, particularly in the feedback provided after residents submit concerns. According to respondents, community concerns are generally channelled to the assembly through Assembly Members. However, information about the progress or resolution of those concerns often fails to return to the affected communities promptly. Some respondents described feedback as slow, delayed or entirely absent. Others said they were simply told that an issue was “on the way” without receiving a definite timeline for action. Focus group discussions highlighted examples of communities repeatedly requesting a maternity room without receiving a
Bolgatanga East Health Crisis: Only One of Four Motorcycle Ambulances Functional as 380 Patients Rely on Private Transport
The state of emergency healthcare delivery in the Bolgatanga East District of the Upper East Region has come under scrutiny following an evaluation by RISE-Ghana, which has uncovered significant gaps in emergency transportation, referral coordination and local governance structures. The findings paint a troubling picture of a district where patients requiring urgent medical attention may have to depend on private vehicles to reach higher-level health facilities, while the majority of the district’s available motorcycle ambulances remain out of service. Speaking to selected journalists in the Upper East Region, the Executive Director of RISE-Ghana, Awal Ahmed Kariama, disclosed that the evaluation identified serious weaknesses in the district’s health referral system, raising concerns about the ability of communities to access timely and effective emergency healthcare. The evaluation was conducted under the Evidence for Development (E4D) project, supported by the Centre for Democratic Development Ghana (CDD-Ghana), as part of efforts to strengthen local government accountability and improve public service delivery. One of the most concerning findings was the limited availability of emergency transportation across the district. According to Kariama, Bolgatanga East has only four motorcycle ambulances, commonly referred to as Motor Kings, although at least 16 are reportedly required to meet the district’s needs. More worrying is that only one of the four available units was operational at the time of the assessment in 2026, leaving the district with a severely limited emergency transport capacity. The implications for residents, particularly those in remote communities, could be significant. In emergencies where every minute matters, the absence of reliable transportation can complicate access to timely treatment and referrals to higher-level facilities. The evaluation also examined referral records for 2025 and found that approximately 380 out of 395 patients referred to higher-level health facilities travelled using private means of transport. The patients were referred from facilities within the district, including those in Zuarungu, to higher-level facilities such as the Bolgatanga Hospital. The findings suggest that the district’s formal emergency transportation arrangements are not adequately supporting patients who need to be transferred for further medical care. For families already struggling with the cost of healthcare, having to arrange private transportation during an emergency may create additional financial and logistical difficulties. The evaluation further revealed that some communities have resorted to local arrangements to bridge the gap. Of the 20 health respondents interviewed, 15 identified community-based support mechanisms, including volunteer escorts and community transport funds, as ways of assisting patients who need referrals. While these arrangements demonstrate community solidarity, they also highlight the extent to which residents are having to find their own solutions to gaps in the formal healthcare system. Beyond the shortage of operational emergency transport, RISE-Ghana identified weaknesses in communication between referring health facilities and the institutions receiving patients. According to Kariama, several health facilities lacked effective systems for ensuring that information about referred patients was communicated promptly and that feedback was received from the receiving facilities. An effective referral system requires more than transporting a patient from one facility to another. It also depends on clear communication between health workers, proper documentation, timely feedback and continuity of care. When these elements are missing, healthcare professionals may struggle to track patients’ progress, coordinate treatment and determine whether referrals have achieved their intended purpose. Kariama said RISE-Ghana had shared the findings with the district health directorate, which indicated that it would take immediate steps to address some of the challenges. Among the proposed measures is the development of standard operating procedures to guide referrals and improve communication between health facilities. The directorate also intends to convene discussions on activating community support mechanisms as an immediate response while longer-term efforts are made to mobilise resources for additional emergency transport systems. Such interventions could help reduce the burden on patients and families, although their effectiveness will depend on implementation, adequate resources and sustained monitoring. The findings also raise broader questions about the adequacy of relying on a single ambulance to serve an entire district. Even where a district has access to a conventional ambulance, the availability of smaller, community-based emergency transport systems can be important, particularly in areas where distance, road conditions and accessibility make it difficult to reach patients quickly. For Bolgatanga East, the limited number of operational motorcycle ambulances means that patients in different communities may face competing demands for the same resources. The situation highlights the need for a coordinated emergency transport system that links community-level health facilities with referral centres and provides reliable alternatives when conventional ambulance services are unavailable. Strengthening this system will require collaboration among the district assembly, health authorities, community leaders, development partners and other stakeholders. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/ Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Scandal Strikes as Visa Controversy Mars World Cup Arrangements
It was supposed to be a dream come true for nearly 90 Ghanaians, each of whom paid between $10,000 and $15,000 in hopes of attending the World Cup extravaganza in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. But for most, the dream ended in disappointment, only five out of the group ultimately received visas, leaving dozens frustrated and sparking a nationwide controversy that has shaken Ghana’s sporting and political circles. The fallout was immediate. National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah was suspended, and the Presidency announced plans to launch a formal probe into the arrangements that led to the debacle. Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament called for not just suspensions but also the prosecution of officials they allege were involved in facilitating the failed arrangements. Amidst the uproar, Minister Adams found himself at the center of swirling accusations. In a candid interview with Citi News, he firmly rejected calls for his removal and insisted that his ministry had no foreknowledge of the controversial arrangements. “Well, I don’t see the justification. Both the American Embassy and TRIBE Culture Fest, the NSA and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) were doing their thing behind the Ministry. The Ministry didn’t know,” Adams asserted. According to Adams, the sequence of events that brought the issue to his attention began with a letter dated May 19. The correspondence requested that the Ministry of Sports and Recreation forward the names of event coordinators and volunteers to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the US Embassy. “The first time I ever sat and had a conversation in relation to that matter was when the May 19 letter requested the forwarding of event coordinators and volunteers to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy. That’s when I got to know the details of what was happening,” he explained. Adams recounted that the letter was passed along to the ministry’s Chief Director, who sits on the technical committee overseeing such arrangements. The committee, he explained, had agreed that lists of people expected to perform specific duties at the World Cup should be submitted to the appropriate authorities to initiate the necessary processes. However, he maintained that the entire process was handled independently by the NSA, GTA, US Embassy, and TRIBE Culture Fest, without the Ministry’s involvement or notification. “If the organisations involved had formally presented their plans, copied the ministry in their correspondence, or otherwise informed us, we would have known,” Adams insisted. He also denied any knowledge of the alleged financial transactions, stating, “Government money has not been lost.” The controversy reached new heights following allegations by Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Ranking Member of Parliament’s Sports Committee. At a press conference, Assafuah claimed that some officials had helped outsiders, people who were not ministry employees, apply for visas, even preparing a cover letter to present them as staff. As calls for accountability grew louder, the Minority demanded the dismissal and prosecution of the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, citing alleged involvement in the arrangements. Minister Adams, however, maintained that his role had been limited to forwarding the May 19 letter through the proper channels, with no prior knowledge of the financial aspects or the deeper details of the arrangements. As the nation awaits the results of the official probe, questions linger over how so many could be left out in the cold, and who will ultimately be held responsible for the World Cup visa fiasco. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Gamal Gorkeh Nkrumah, Eldest Son of Ghana’s Founding President, Dies in Cairo
Gamal Gorkeh Nkrumah, the eldest son of Ghana’s founding President Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has passed away in Cairo, Egypt, after a prolonged illness. In a statement announcing his death, the Nkrumah family said Gamal died peacefully at a rehabilitation centre where he had been receiving care following a stroke. The family expressed deep sorrow over his loss, describing him as a distinguished journalist, writer, and intellectual who spent his life exploring the political, social, and cultural currents shaping Africa and the wider world. Throughout his life, Gamal Nkrumah was known for his unwavering commitment to justice, human dignity, African unity, and international solidarity, ideals strongly associated with his father’s legacy. The family praised his intellectual curiosity, independent thought, and quiet conviction, noting that he managed to uphold his father’s ideals while building his own reputation and principled path. “His passing represents a profound loss not only to our family and loved ones, but also to the wider community of friends, colleagues and readers who valued his insight, humanity and unwavering engagement with the great questions of our time,” the family’s statement read. The family remembered Gamal with love, gratitude, and pride, emphasizing that his wisdom, kindness, and dedication to his values would remain an enduring source of inspiration. They also expressed appreciation to the medical professionals and caregivers in Cairo, as well as the governments and people of Egypt and Ghana, for their support during his illness. The Nkrumah family has requested privacy as they mourn and indicated that details regarding memorial arrangements and tributes to Gamal’s life and legacy will be announced in due course. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Six Remand Prisoners Escape from Konongo Police Cells, Five Still at Large
Six remand prisoners have escaped from police custody at Konongo in the Asante Akyem Central Municipality of the Ashanti Region, with authorities confirming that five of the inmates remain at large. According to police sources, the prisoners managed to break out through a hole that had been dug, which led to the detached washrooms at the police station. After successfully moving out of the cell through the hole, the inmates jumped off and made their escape. A swift manhunt was launched, resulting in the re-arrest of one escapee in a Kumasi suburb. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining five. Asante Akyem Central Municipal Chief Executive, Dr. Ebenezer Ekow Aidoo, confirmed the incident to Citi News and revealed that the Municipal Security Council is moving quickly to strengthen the walls of the police cells to prevent similar occurrences. He also outlined additional long-term measures, including the construction of a new police station and increasing police presence, particularly during nighttime hours. Dr. Aidoo further announced plans to improve lighting and install surveillance cameras at the police station, aiming to enhance security and prevent future escapes. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Receives Report on $200 Million Cocaine Shipment Seized in France
President John Dramani Mahama has received a preliminary report on investigations into the recent shipment of cocaine from Ghana, after French authorities intercepted a consignment worth more than $200 million at the port of Dunkirk. The Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Sarpong, revealed the development when he appeared before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee. Sarpong explained that President Mahama had swiftly set up a multi-agency team to probe the incident and identify weaknesses in the systems monitoring goods leaving Ghana’s ports. According to Sarpong, the investigative team was initially given two weeks to conduct its review, with a preliminary report presented to the President last week. “The report was presented to the President in terms of what the state of the investigation is, and what the recommendations are to be able to close all the gaps substantially,” he told the committee. Sarpong expressed confidence that the findings would guide new policies and investments aimed at tightening security at Ghana’s entry and exit points, helping to close loopholes that allow illicit shipments to pass through undetected. The investigation follows the seizure by French customs officials on September 10, 2026, of nearly 3.9 tonnes of cocaine concealed in a container of plastic waste that had arrived from Ghana. The haul, with a street value of €225 million, was reportedly destined in part for Antwerp, Belgium. In response to the seizure, Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) announced the arrest of three suspects for their alleged involvement in the illicit shipment. The suspects are believed to have represented and facilitated the activities of Dutch fugitive Jos Leijdekkers, also known as “Bolle Jos,” in Ghana. Authorities say the ongoing investigation and its resulting recommendations will be critical to preventing similar incidents at Ghana’s ports in the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Economy Grows 7.4% in July 2026, Driven by Services and Industry Recovery
Ghana’s economic activity surged by 7.4% year-on-year in July 2026, marking a notable acceleration from the 4.9% growth recorded in the same period last year, according to the latest data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). The strong performance was underpinned by robust expansion in the services sector and a significant recovery in industry, which together offset a pronounced slowdown in agriculture. The Monthly Indicator of Economic Growth (MIEG) index climbed to 121.6 in July 2026, compared to 113.2 a year earlier, signalling increased economic momentum. Services led the charge, expanding by 12.2% year-on-year, almost double the 6.7% growth seen in July 2025. The sector accounted for 63.8% of the overall growth, solidifying its role at the heart of Ghana’s economic progress, with the information and communication sub-sector as the main driver. Industry also bounced back, growing by 5.4% after eking out just 0.4% growth a year earlier. Mining and quarrying provided much of the impetus behind the sector’s recovery. However, agriculture lagged behind the broader trend. The sector grew by only 3.7%, a sharp drop from the 8.2% expansion recorded in July 2025, with crops and livestock leading the modest gains. The data highlight Ghana’s increasing reliance on services for economic growth, a trend that could pose risks should momentum in the sector wane. The Ghana Statistical Service has urged policymakers to not only sustain the gains in services but also intensify efforts to strengthen agriculture and broaden the contributions of other productive sectors to ensure balanced and resilient economic growth. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
High Court Adjourns Ruling on Chairman Wontumi’s Bail Application Pending Appeal
Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay of the High Court has adjourned to November 4, 2026, the delivery of her ruling on a bail application filed by former Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, who is seeking temporary release pending the outcome of his appeal. The adjournment follows arguments presented by Chairman Wontumi’s legal team, led by Samuel Atta Akyea, and Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, who represented the state during the hearing. Chairman Wontumi is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence after being convicted for permitting mining activities on his Samreboi concession without the required approval from the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources. He is appealing the conviction and sentence and is requesting bail to prepare his appeal and participate in two other ongoing criminal cases. At Thursday’s hearing, Atta Akyea argued that Wontumi’s temporary release was necessary for his effective participation in the appeal process and other legal matters, stressing that Wontumi had previously complied with bail conditions and was not a flight risk. He further pointed to 19 grounds of appeal with a reasonable chance of success as justification for granting bail. In response, Dr. Srem-Sai opposed the application, asserting that the appeal grounds were not exceptional and that established case law required more than ordinary grounds to justify bail pending appeal. He also raised concerns that the possibility of additional consecutive prison terms might incentivize Wontumi to abscond if released. Dr. Srem-Sai referenced a video allegedly showing Wontumi’s former counsel discussing a plan to evade law enforcement, using it to support the state’s argument against bail. Justice Kocuvie-Tay, who had presided over Wontumi’s conviction and sentencing in July, questioned Atta Akyea about the progress of the appeal, to which he replied that steps were being taken to compile the records for the Court of Appeal. The court will deliver its ruling on the bail application on November 4, 2026. Source: Apexnewsgh.com