Ghanaian Returnee Alleges Zulu Role in South Africa’s Xenophobic Attacks
Victor Atsu Togo, a Ghanaian who recently returned from South Africa, has come forward with troubling claims about the wave of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in that country. Speaking to the media on June 2, Mr. Togo described his experiences and observations, painting a grim picture of life for immigrants in South Africa. According to Mr. Togo, members of the Zulu ethnic group, renowned for their rich warrior heritage and cultural traditions, have played a leading role in the recent attacks. “This ethnic group has killed a lot of people; their actions are heartless,” he stated, calling the violence both disturbing and inhumane. The Zulu, the largest ethnic group in South Africa and primarily based in KwaZulu-Natal province, are known for their vibrant culture and proud history. But Mr. Togo alleged that some factions within the group operate like organized mercenary gangs, feared by residents and local leaders alike. He singled out a group he called “The Hit,” accusing them of committing violent acts with little regard for human life. Mr. Togo further suggested that the reluctance of many political and community leaders to openly address the crisis has contributed to the ongoing attacks, leaving immigrants vulnerable. He expressed deep concern about what he sees as growing lawlessness and hostility towards foreigners living and working in South Africa. Offering his personal assessment, he claimed that many male nationals are uninterested in work, while about 30 percent of female nationals embrace employment. For now, Mr. Togo’s testimony adds a personal and urgent perspective to the conversation about xenophobia in South Africa, raising questions about ethnic tensions, leadership, and the safety of immigrants across the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Pre-Dawn Raid by NAiMOS Taskforce Halts Illegal Mining, Uncovers Dammed Dankai River
In the quiet, early hours of Sunday, May 24, 2026, the silence of Sanfo Adiam in Ashanti Region was shattered by the swift action of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS). Working in tandem with the Blue Water Guards, the Manso Adubia task force executed a carefully planned pre-dawn raid, striking at the heart of a notorious galamsey enclave along the Dankai River. The operation, which began under the cloak of darkness between 4:00 and 7:00 a.m., was fueled by credible intelligence of organized illegal mining in the area. As the task force approached, they spotted several miners at work, among them a Ghanaian wielding a pump-action firearm. Sensing the encroaching danger, most of the illegal operators, including the armed individual, vanished into the surrounding thickets. However, two Chinese nationals attempted to flee but were swiftly pursued and apprehended by the operatives. The arrested suspects, identified as Lu Honggeng (53) and Nong Zisun (41), were found at the very center of a sophisticated mining operation. The most alarming discovery was the deliberate engineering of the Dankai River: the illegal miners had blocked and redirected its natural flow into an artificial dam, channeling water to fuel their extraction activities. This manipulation of the river’s course was a stark assault on the environment and a threat to downstream communities that rely on its waters. Upon securing the site and the suspects, the joint team dismantled the illegal damming infrastructure. The two Chinese nationals were escorted to the NAiMOS Secretariat in Accra, pending further investigation and a handover to the Ghana Immigration Service. The presence of the firearm at the site underscored the escalating security risks facing anti-illegal mining operatives and highlighted the importance of continued vigilance. In a statement following the operation, NAiMOS assured the public that the disruption of the river and the illegal mining operation was complete, and pledged to sustain its crackdown in Amansie East and beyond until rivers like the Dankai are fully restored. The Secretariat also issued a stern warning to illegal miners, urging them to cease activities that devastate the nation’s water bodies and forests. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority Accuses NDC Government of Betrayal Over Changes to Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill
Tensions ran high in Parliament as the Minority caucus leveled serious accusations against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, claiming it had broken faith with Ghanaians by significantly altering the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, widely known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill. Speaking passionately at a press conference on Monday, June 1, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the Member of Parliament for Assin South and a co-sponsor of the bill, voiced the Minority’s frustration. While reaffirming the caucus’s support for the bill’s objectives, he condemned what he described as sweeping amendments that, in his view, had fundamentally changed the legislation that Parliament originally passed in 2024. Rev. Ntim Fordjour accused the ruling NDC of “mutilating” the bill through extensive deletions, redrafting, and new insertions. He charged that the government’s actions contradicted its earlier stance, reminding the public that the NDC had once demanded the bill be signed into law exactly as passed. “Was that the promise?” he asked, referencing the NDC’s campaign assurances. “Was the promise to come and dilute the bill before he signs? That is a breach of trust. That is hypocrisy, and that is deception.” The controversy arose after Parliament passed the revised bill on Friday, May 30, which introduced several key changes. Under the new provisions, legal professionals offering counsel or representation to LGBTQ+ individuals are now exempt from sanctions. Journalists and media houses reporting on LGBTQ+ matters in their professional capacity are also protected. Additionally, medical professionals, including surgeons, psychologists, and counselors, who provide care to LGBTQ+ persons are shielded from prosecution. Despite the amendments, the Minority insists the government has deviated from its original promise, framing the changes as a betrayal of public trust and a dilution of the bill’s intended impact. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Set to Launch Bold “New Economy” Blueprint in 2027 Budget
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson took to the podium with a vision for Ghana’s economic future. Addressing a diverse audience of investors and business leaders, Dr. Forson unveiled plans for a sweeping “new economy” framework, set to be the centerpiece of the 2027 Budget. This ambitious programme, he explained, is designed to attract investment into sectors with the power to transform Ghana’s economy for generations. “We want to channel resources into productive sectors that can expand the economy and create the capacity to repay investments over time,” Dr. Forson stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable, long-term growth. Central to this new agenda will be a focus on commercial agriculture, the value addition of minerals, energy, and critical transport infrastructure. The framework will pinpoint priority areas where investment can yield the greatest impact, driving industrial development and job creation. Notably, energy projects, particularly gas-to-power and gas-to-fertiliser initiatives, will play a starring role, strengthening Ghana’s energy security and supporting its industrial ambitions. Infrastructure is also in sharp focus. The Western Railway Line, alongside other strategic transport projects, will receive significant attention, with full details to be revealed at the official launch. While the final blueprint is still being fine-tuned, Dr. Forson assured stakeholders that preparations are well advanced. The formal unveiling will be led by President John Dramani Mahama once all elements are in place. To fuel this vision, the government plans to tap into international financing, ranging from UK export finance to hedge funds and private investors. “We want to attract the kind of UK export finance. We want to attract the kind of hedge funds and businesses that you have so that we can get financing to develop the country,” Dr. Forson affirmed, signaling Ghana’s readiness to welcome global partners in its quest for economic transformation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Declares War on Public Sector Financial Irregularities
President John Dramani Mahama has sent a clear message: the era of impunity for financial mismanagement in Ghana’s public sector is coming to an end. On Sunday, May 31, during a diaspora town hall meeting, President Mahama voiced his deep concern about the billions of cedis Ghana loses each year to financial irregularities—losses consistently detailed in the Auditor-General’s reports. “Every year, you hear the Auditor General’s report, Ghana loses 12 billion cedis from misappropriations and things,” he lamented, highlighting the persistent drain on the country’s resources and the longstanding weaknesses in public financial management. But this time, the president announced a historic shift. Thanks to the Chief Justice, Ghana now has specialised audit courts designed to handle cases of financial wrongdoing uncovered by the Auditor-General. No longer will those implicated merely appear before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee; they will stand trial in these new courts, facing real consequences. President Mahama was resolute: anyone found culpable in audit reports will be compelled to refund misappropriated funds or face imprisonment. He emphasized that the Attorney-General and the Auditor-General would collaborate closely to prosecute offenders and recover public money. “We’re putting them in front of those special courts to either refund our money or proceed to NSAWAM and go and catch some rest there,” he quipped, referencing Ghana’s most well-known prison. His vow comes at a time of renewed public scrutiny on financial accountability, following recent high-profile cases examined by Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee. Among them was a directive ordering officials of the Ho Municipal Assembly to refund GH¢138,000 within 60 days. With these new audit courts and a presidential commitment to enforcement, Ghana appears poised to turn a new page in its battle against public sector financial irregularities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana and South Korea Sign Historic Visa Waiver Agreement
Ghana and South Korea took a remarkable step forward. On the sidelines of the Africa-Korea Foreign Ministers Meeting, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and South Korea’s Foreign Minister, Cho Hyun, met with a shared vision: to strengthen the ties binding their nations. With signatures exchanged and hands shaken, the two countries sealed a historic Visa Waiver Agreement for holders of Diplomatic and Service Passports. For nearly half a century, Ghana and South Korea had maintained formal relations, but never before had such an agreement been reached. Minister Ablakwa, elated by the breakthrough, announced the news on social media, calling it a milestone in diplomatic relations between the two nations. But the story does not end there. As the ink dried on this agreement, discussions were already underway to extend these privileges to holders of Ordinary Passports. Such a move, Ablakwa hinted, would open new doors for travel, trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges between Ghana and South Korea. For now, the holders of Diplomatic and Service Passports in both countries can look forward to seamless journeys, free from visa barriers, a development expected to make official engagements more efficient and deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation. The world watched as Ghana and South Korea turned a new page in their shared story, with the promise of even closer ties on the horizon. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana and UK: A New Chapter of Economic Partnership
At the bustling Ghana-UK Investment Summit 2026, President John Dramani Mahama stood before a room of eager investors and dignitaries, his message clear: the economic partnership between Ghana and the United Kingdom is entering a new era. The President shared a milestone that brought pride to both nations: annual bilateral trade now surpasses £1.5 billion. Yet, he was quick to remind the audience that this achievement was just the beginning. “This only scratches the surface of what is possible,” Mahama asserted, his vision firmly fixed on the future. He painted a picture of a rapidly changing world, where global businesses are reevaluating their supply chains and searching for resilient, promising destinations for investment. In this landscape, Ghana, Mahama argued, stands out. Political stability, a strong democratic tradition, and a strategic location are just some of the qualities making the country an attractive choice for international investors. Ongoing reforms to strengthen macroeconomic fundamentals further sweeten the deal. “In that changing global landscape, Ghana offers something increasingly valuable: political stability, democratic maturity, strategic geographical access, improving macroeconomic fundamentals, and a government committed to creating a transparent and investor-friendly business environment,” the President told the summit. Mahama emphasized that the Ghana-UK partnership has grown far beyond its historical roots. Today, it is a multifaceted relationship spanning trade, innovation, education, and shared democratic values. Looking ahead, he called for collaboration in critical sectors such as manufacturing, technology, infrastructure, agribusiness, renewable energy, financial services, pharmaceuticals, tourism, education, and the digital economy. “This Summit is therefore not simply a networking event. It is a platform for building long-term partnerships capable of delivering jobs, innovation, industrial growth and shared prosperity,” he declared. With these words, President Mahama invited both countries to seize the opportunity and forge an even stronger economic future together. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ngamegbulam Takes Anti-Drug Campaign to Zorkor Tarongo Primary School
In a determined effort to combat youth drug and alcohol abuse, Mr. Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen, Editor-in-Chief of ApexNewsGH, has extended his advocacy to the Zorkor Tarongo Primary School in the Bongo District of Ghana’s Upper East Region. Mr. Ngamegbulam’s visit forms part of his broader mission to reach young people early and steer them away from the dangers of substance abuse. The award-winning journalist is no stranger to this cause. In 2025, he produced a powerful documentary titled “Swallowed by Drugs,” which highlighted the harsh realities and struggles faced by youths ensnared by addiction. Drawing from his research and experience, he addressed students, teachers, community leaders, and parents at Zorkor Tarongo Primary School, raising awareness about the escalating problem of drug and alcohol abuse among young people in the area. During the engagement, Mr. Ngamegbulam urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children, emphasizing the rising trend of youth involvement in substance abuse within the Bongo District. He warned that early exposure to drugs such as tramadol, cannabis, Red Red, and other substances could derail the ambitions of children, jeopardizing their dreams of becoming doctors, nurses, journalists, or teachers. He appealed to students to look up to successful role models within their community, pointing out that these individuals achieved their positions through hard work and discipline, not through substance abuse. “If they had indulged in drugs or alcohol, they wouldn’t be where they are today,” he asserted. The sensitization event was well received by both the school authority and the community leadership. Naba Abelizire Ayeta II, the Chief of the area, expressed gratitude for Mr. Ngamegbulam’s initiative, describing the campaign as essential for every parent in Tarongo. Hon. Akelinyana Peter, Assemblyman for Tarongo/Atiabiise Electoral Area, also lauded Mr. Ngamegbulam as a dedicated youth ambassador who is using his media platform to change lives. He urged parents to heed his advice to guide their children towards responsible adulthood. The Headmistress of Zorkor Tarongo Primary School, Madam Azeko Mary Ngoomah, echoed these sentiments, noting the importance of regular educational outreach on drug and alcohol abuse, which she said is becoming increasingly prevalent in schools. Mr. Ngamegbulam’s visit underscores the urgent need for collective community action to protect the dreams and futures of young people from the devastating impact of substance abuse. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Zorkor Tarongo D/A KG and Primary School—A Legacy in Need of Revival
Once upon a time, in the heart of the Bongo District, stood Zorkor Tarongo D/A KG and Primary School, a proud institution established in 1956. As the oldest school in the district, it has long served as the foundation for many prominent personalities, not just within the region, but across all of Ghana. Over the decades, its classrooms have nurtured future leaders, respected professionals, and notable figures such as regional ministers, MPs, and District Chief Executives, all of whom once walked its humble corridors. Yet, despite this rich legacy, the school’s current state tells a different story. The passage of time has not been kind. Years of neglect have left the buildings dilapidated. The infrastructure is crumbling, and the proud walls that once echoed with the laughter and dreams of children now bear the scars of time and relentless rainstorms. Roofs have been torn away, and doors and windows that were once broken have only recently been replaced. Furniture is scarce, and the needs remain many. During an exclusive engagement with Apexnewsgh, Hon. Akelinyana Peter Akugre, the Tarongo/Atiabiise Electoral Area assembly member, voiced his deep concern. He expressed his gratitude for the efforts of the Bongo MP and the Naidvar Trust NGO, whose support has helped replace some doors and windows. “I am aware that many dignitaries passed through this school. Today, they are successful members of society, including the Upper East Regional Minister. I appeal to Hon. Donatus Akamugri, Professor Atintono, Awinsira Wilbert Nam-katoti, and other notable alumni, including a former DCE, to come to the aid of Zorkor Tarongo Primary School.” He continued, emphasizing that as the oldest school in the Bongo District, much has broken down and urgently needs replacement. “Rainstorms have damaged the roof, but with the help of our MP and Naidvar Trust, we have made some progress. Korea Food for the Hungry International (KFHI) also contributed by providing a borehole for the school. Still, the school remains neglected by the very people it once shaped.” Hon. Akugre made a heartfelt plea to former students, including Gaaga Akayeri Azitariga, Bongo’s first MP under the Fourth Republic, and many others. “Please, visit your old school and see its current condition. If you can help us renovate it, I would be deeply grateful. I know you will listen, as you always have.” And so, the story of Zorkor Tarongo D/A KG and Primary School continues, a legacy waiting to be revived, calling on its sons and daughters to breathe new life into its aging walls. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
“Anapoka and Anaba in the Path of the Trees” Launches at Zorkor Tarongo Primary School
A dream takes root as a new book, written by Cristiane Tavares and illustrated by the school’s own children, promises to nurture both young minds and the environment. Under the shade of hope and the watchful eyes of chiefs, assembly members, and proud community elders, a quiet revolution began at the Zorkor Tarongo Primary School. The occasion was the launch of a very special book: “Anapoka and Anaba in the Path of the Trees.” But this was no ordinary book launch. The author, Cristiane Tavares, had penned the tale, yet the true magic came from the children themselves, for it was their bright, imaginative illustrations that brought the story to life. The book follows two local children, Anapoka and Anaba, on a mission to heal their world by planting trees, one seedling at a time. As the crowd gathered, the Executive Director of Naidvar Trust, Augustine Akugre, rose to speak. His voice carried a quiet determination. “My vision,” he said, “is to see Zorkor Tarongo Primary become the best school in the entire Bongo District.” He then revealed something extraordinary: the book is being sold across the world, and every bit of profit flows back directly to the school. The headmistress, Madam Azeko Mary Ngoomah, could barely contain her joy. For six years, Naidvar Trust had stood by her school like a faithful friend. But today, the gratitude spilled over. “If not because of Naidvar Trust,” she declared, her voice thick with emotion, “we would never have had the opportunity to sit on these dual desks.” She gestured to the furniture around her, a simple gift that had changed their daily reality. The event drew a constellation of dignitaries: the revered chief of Zorkor Tarongo, Naba Abelizire Ayeta II; the Tarongo Assembly member, Hon. Akelinyana Peter Akugre; an old student, Nyaaba Awine Ibrahim; and countless community members who filled the grounds. As the sun climbed higher over the primary school, “Anapoka and Anaba in the Path of the Trees” was officially launched, not just as a book, but as a promise. A promise that with every page turned and every tree planted, a little school in Zorkor Tarongo would grow stronger, greener, and full of possibility. Source: Apexnewsgh.com