Hundreds of Homes Submerged in Weija as Dam Spillage Forces Mass Evacuation
Chaos and uncertainty gripped communities in Weija, Accra, after a controlled spillage from the Weija Dam left hundreds of homes underwater and thousands of residents stranded. The sudden flooding, which began after Ghana Water Limited (GWL) opened all spill gates, forced many families to flee for safety, abandoning homes and treasured belongings. The crisis unfolded after GWL announced on May 27, 2026, that water levels in the dam had surged above 48 feet, well beyond safe operating limits, due to persistent heavy rainfall. In an official statement, the utility company explained that the decision to release excess water was a necessary precaution to protect the dam’s structural integrity and prevent a catastrophic overflow. According to GWL, controlled spillage is a standard safety measure activated when intense inflows threaten to overwhelm the dam’s capacity. However, the move has come at a high cost for the surrounding communities, which have been inundated by floodwaters. Streets have turned into rivers, homes have been engulfed, and residents could be seen wading through chest-high water, clutching whatever items they could salvage. With the scale of devastation still unfolding, emergency response teams are mobilizing to assess the damage and bring relief to those affected. Authorities have pledged to intensify rescue and support operations in the coming days as Weija’s residents face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives after the flood. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tema Oil Refinery Welcomes One Million Barrels of Bonga Crude in Major Step Toward Revitalization
A new wave of optimism swept through Ghana’s energy sector this week as Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) announced the safe arrival of approximately one million barrels of Bonga Crude Oil aboard the MT Cap Felix. The delivery marks a significant milestone in the refinery’s ongoing campaign to rejuvenate its operations and fortify the nation’s petroleum supply chain. The management of TOR revealed that the high-quality crude cargo, purchased from global energy giant Shell, was supplied via TOR’s tolling partner, Triangle Commodities Trading. This strategic arrangement, officials explained, is part of a broader plan to restore TOR’s operational capacity and guarantee a secure, stable flow of petroleum products to consumers across Ghana. For TOR, the delivery of Bonga Crude represents more than just a shipment; it is a signal of renewed momentum in the refinery’s push to restore reliable refining activities, strengthen national energy security, and reduce the country’s reliance on imported fuels. Management highlighted that Bonga Crude is valued in the industry for its low-sulphur content and excellent refining yields, promising substantial output of premium products such as LPG, gasoline, diesel, kerosene, aviation turbine kerosene (ATK), and fuel oil. These products are expected to serve both domestic needs and regional markets. Expressing gratitude, TOR’s leadership thanked the Government of Ghana, regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and other partners for their steadfast support during the refinery’s resurgence. They emphasized that collaborative efforts have been crucial to reaching this new phase of operational recovery. Looking ahead, TOR reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship. The refinery reiterated its long-term vision to transform itself into a commercially sustainable energy hub, not just for Ghana, but for the entire West African sub-region. As the first barrels of Bonga Crude are prepared for processing, hopes are high that this latest development will pave the way for a new era of stability and growth in Ghana’s energy landscape. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Zoomlion Defends Integrity Amid Auditor-General’s Claims of Billing Irregularities at All-African Games
Tension simmered in Accra this week as Zoomlion Ghana Limited found itself thrust into the spotlight following an Auditor-General’s report that scrutinized the company’s billing practices during the 13th All-African Games. The report, released in late May, questioned possible duplication of labour charges in Zoomlion’s invoices for cleaning and vector control services provided throughout the high-profile sporting event. But Zoomlion was quick to push back. In a pointed statement issued on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the waste management giant dismissed the Auditor-General’s findings as “untrue,” insisting that the allegations stemmed from a fundamental misunderstanding of the nature and scope of its work. According to Zoomlion, the report failed to distinguish between two entirely separate service contracts, vector control and janitorial services, erroneously interpreting labour costs appearing on both sets of invoices as duplication. “The findings misinterpret operational reality, ignore the distinct scope of services provided under separate contracts and overlook the fact that all supporting documents were already available to the Auditor General at the material time,” the company’s statement read. Zoomlion detailed the breadth of its operations during the Games. Vector control, the company clarified, encompassed mosquito fogging and the management of reptiles, rodents, and cockroaches using specialist technology and teams. Janitorial services, meanwhile, included daily cleaning, waste evacuation, toilet maintenance, and mopping across key competition venues. Each service, they stressed, required its own personnel, schedules, and specialized equipment, justifying the separate labour charges. To underscore its transparency, Zoomlion revealed that all relevant documentation, ranging from invoices and contracts to daily supervision logs and equipment deployment records, had been submitted to the Ministry of Sports and other institutions overseeing the event. The company also highlighted the comprehensive scope of its work, which included over 30 different activities such as waste collection, vacuum cleaning, medical waste treatment, mobile toilet provision, water supply, and cesspit management. The logistical challenge was immense: Zoomlion deployed more than 350 specially trained personnel and a large fleet of equipment across four major venues, Accra Sports Stadium, Borteyman Sports Complex, Achimota Cricket Oval, and Bukom Trust Emporium. Staff underwent intensive training at the Army Peace Operations Training School in preparation for around-the-clock sanitation and vector control throughout the Games. In reflecting on its contribution, Zoomlion emphasized that its efforts helped ensure the Games proceeded smoothly, without a single sanitation incident or outbreak of disease. The company ended its statement with a firm rejection of the allegations: “Zoomlion unequivocally denies these allegations. The company is a responsible corporate entity that upholds the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability in all its dealings.” As the dust settles, Zoomlion maintains that its reputation and the successful, hygienic staging of the All-African Games, speak louder than any report. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana welcomes Pope’s apology over Catholic Church’s role in slavery
Ghana has welcomed Pope Leo XIV’s apology for the Catholic Church’s historic role in slavery, describing it as an “act of moral courage” that was important in the global pursuit of “truth, human dignity and justice”. The Pope issued the clearest apology yet for the Church’s involvement in legitimising slavery and its delay in condemning it for centuries. Between the 16th and 19th Centuries, 12-15 million Africans were shipped to the Caribbean, with about two million dying during the journey. Ghana has long been leading efforts for compensation and apologies from Western nations for the slave trade. The West African nation’s government said the Pope’s recognition of the painful past was an important step towards healing, reconciliation and a just society. ”[The apology] reinforces the growing global understanding that confronting historical injustices demands truth-telling and moral responsibility as essential foundations for justice and reconciliation,” its statement, released late on Tuesday, said. The Pope’s apology was delivered in what is known as a encyclical – technically a letter to Catholic bishops, but which over recent decades have been how a pontiff passes on messages to the world. In the papal letter – titled “Magnifica Humanitas” (“Magnificent Humanity”) – Pope Leo sincerely asked for a pardon in the name of the Church, adding that it was “impossible not to feel deep sorrow when contemplating the immense suffering and humiliation endured by so many”. Leo said Church authorities had at times responded to requests of rulers by “regulating and legitimising forms of subjugation, including the enslavement of of [non-Christians]”. He also acknowledged that earlier in the Middle Ages, ecclesiastical institutions had their own slaves. “This constitutes a wound in Christian memory,” he said of the Church’s record. In April, Pope Leo completed a 11-day, four-nation of Africa – his first visit to the continent as pontiff – and where he made several forthright remarks including lashing out at foreigners who exploit Africa’s wealth for profit. | AFP via Getty Images (Pic): Pope Leo visited Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea in April Ghana said the Pope’s acknowledgment of the “painful history” was significant, at a time the world was having a “deeper reflection” on the effects of slavery and colonialism. The country successfully pushed for a UN resolution in March, which recognised the enslavement of Africans as the “gravest crime against humanity”. Submitted by Ghana’s President John Mahama and backed by the African Union, it aims to provide a pathway to healing and the payment of reparations. It also seeks to address the enduring consequences of slavery like inequality and racial discrimination. Ghana, which still has some of the forts that were used for holding captives under inhuman conditions as they waited to be shipped to the Americas by European powers, is due to host a conference in June to discuss the next steps following the adoption of the UN resolution. On Tuesday, Human Rights Watch said the Pope’s apology marked an important step, but stressed apologies alone were not enough and that real reparative justice needed to go further. Religious institutions, along with states and corporations that benefited from slavery, should “reckon seriously” with their histories and take part in reparative efforts, the rights group added. Source: bbc
Ghana Police Intensify Crackdown on Drug Trafficking in Upper East; 74 Arrested in Major Operations
The Ghana Police Service has escalated its campaign against narcotics trafficking and violent crime in the Upper East Region, culminating in the arrest of 74 individuals during two recent operations in Paga and Navrongo. Acting on intelligence, the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team launched a targeted crackdown on known criminal hotspots and suspected drug distribution networks. These efforts aim to disrupt trans-border crime and curb the flow of narcotics in the region. The first major sweep took place on May 20, 2026, along the buffer zone at the Ghana-Burkina Faso border in Paga. Officers apprehended 40 suspects, 28 men and 12 women, comprising a mix of nationalities: 23 Ghanaians, 8 Nigerians, 6 Burkinabés, 1 Malian, and 1 Togolese. During the operation, police seized numerous parcels and sacks containing suspected narcotic substances as well as five motorbikes believed to be integral to the drug distribution network. Just two days later, on May 22, the Special Operations Team moved into action again, this time raiding criminal enclaves in Navrongo Municipality. The focus was on areas infamously known for illicit activities, such as the Condemned Road Corridor, “After Six” Spot, and “Lighter Inn” Spot. This second operation netted 34 more suspects, 32 men and two women. Authorities also confiscated 11 motorbikes, quantities of suspected drugs, and various foreign cigarettes suspected of being smuggled into Ghana. All 74 suspects were promptly brought before High Court Two under the jurisdiction of His Lordship Justice Ernest Pascal Gemadzie. Sixteen of them were remanded into police custody, with their next court appearance scheduled for June 4, 2026. The remaining 22 suspects are currently being profiled and screened for further legal proceedings. According to the Police, all those arrested remain in custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations. Security agencies have vowed to continue their efforts to identify and apprehend additional individuals connected to criminal activities in the affected communities. These latest operations underscore the Ghana Police Service’s nationwide commitment to dismantling the narcotics trade, fighting violent crime, and tackling cross-border criminal networks, particularly in vulnerable border communities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Cedi Faces Tough Times—A Story of Decline in 2026
Traders in Ghana count their cedis with worried expressions. The year is 2026, and Ghana’s currency has become the talk of West Africa, not for its strength, but for its steady fall against the US dollar. Early May saw the cedi drop to 11.36 against the dollar, marking a year-to-date decline of 10.28% according to Reuters, which relied on London Stock Exchange Group data for its analysis. The news rippled through the financial world, with predictions of further depreciation due to high demand for foreign exchange, especially from Ghana’s energy sector. “Ghana’s cedi is being dragged down by persistent corporate foreign-currency demand, particularly from the energy sector,” stated the Reuters report. The trend continued, and by the end of last week, the cedi closed at 11.61 to the dollar. Out of the nine currencies circulating in West Africa, including the CFA franc used by eight countries, the cedi stood out for all the wrong reasons. It was the worst-performing currency in the region in 2026, and its weak showing placed it alongside the Libyan dinar among Africa’s most fragile currencies. This downward spiral came even as inflation eased, a positive sign for Ghana’s economy. But for ordinary citizens and businesses, the weakening cedi brought challenges. Prices of goods and services climbed, as importers and traders sought dollars at rates higher than those officially quoted. Reuters attributed the cedi’s woes to relentless demand for foreign currency from importers and businesses. “The cedi is on a depreciating path due to persistent FX demand, with traders expecting the trend to continue,” the report concluded. As the cedi’s story unfolded, Ghanaians braced themselves for the uncertain months ahead, hoping for stability in a world where the value of their money seemed to slip further each day. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
A Vision for Africa: Dr Asiama’s Journey Toward Financial Integration
At the ACI Financial Markets World Congress, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, took the stage, his eyes set on a horizon of possibility for Africa’s economic future. With leaders, innovators, and investors gathered around, he painted a vivid picture of a continent on the cusp of transformation while also outlining the hurdles that still stood in the way. Dr Asiama began by recounting the strides Africa has made in regional trade. Yet, he lamented, the systems that move money across borders remain fragmented and inefficient. “It is cheaper,” he remarked with a touch of irony, “to send money across oceans than to send it to a neighbouring African country.” The cost and complexity of cross-border payments, he argued, threaten to stifle trade and limit opportunities for millions. The Governor’s vision was clear: Africa needed an integrated payment and settlement system—a digital backbone that would connect the continent, support trade, deepen financial inclusion, and fuel economic growth. Achieving this, he stressed, was essential to realizing the promise of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Dr Asiama shared how the Bank of Ghana, in partnership with AfCFTA and other stakeholders, is exploring digital innovations such as stablecoins to tackle cross-border payment challenges. These efforts, he explained, are being nurtured in regulatory sandboxes, safe spaces where new technologies can be tested and refined before being scaled up. But the journey was not Ghana’s alone. Across the continent, central banks are joining forces to harmonise regulations, enhance payment systems, and share knowledge on emerging technologies. Dr Asiama highlighted the 3i Africa Summit, a collaborative platform bringing together central bank governors, innovators, and investors to drive financial sector development. Still, the Governor cautioned, innovation must be carefully balanced with financial stability and consumer protection. “Do not regulate the technology, but regulate the risk,” he advised, urging regulators to work alongside innovators rather than standing in their way. As the fireside chat drew to a close, Dr Asiama’s optimism was infectious. With greater collaboration among regulators, innovators, and investors, he believed Africa could build a resilient and inclusive financial system, one capable of supporting sustainable growth and prosperity for all. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Over 6,000 Security Service Applicants Disqualified for Drug Use and Mental Health Issues, Says Interior Minister
More than 6,000 hopefuls seeking to join Ghana’s security services have been disqualified at the medical screening stage of the ongoing recruitment exercise after testing positive for drugs or being identified with mental health conditions, the Ministry of the Interior has revealed. Interior Minister Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak disclosed during a televised interview on Pan African TV on Saturday, May 23. According to the Minister, over 100,000 applicants underwent rigorous medical examinations as part of the recruitment process. He explained that, in response to growing concerns about the well-being of personnel within the security services, the screening process went beyond routine physical and laboratory tests to include comprehensive drug testing and mental health assessments. “We have over 100,000 people who have gone through the medicals. Because of the large numbers and because of what we have observed within the services, we introduced additional checks, including mental health assessments and drug tests. Interestingly, over 4,000 people failed the drug test, and we have over 2,000 who also failed due to mental health conditions,” he said. Minister Muntaka Mubarak emphasized that these results underscore the need to strengthen screening procedures to ensure that only qualified and fit candidates are recruited into the nation’s security services. He noted that the measures are part of ongoing efforts to improve the well-being and professionalism of personnel entrusted with national security. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah Urges TEIN Students: “Take Your Studies Seriously If You Want a Future in Politics”
Although Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah could not be physically present at the TEIN ceremony held at the Nursing Training College in Bolgatanga, her words carried immense weight, leaving a powerful impact on the students and igniting fresh hope in their political aspirations. The former Upper East Regional Women’s Organizer of the NDC and now Deputy Director General of Warehouse at NADMO shared a heartfelt and direct message with the eager audience. She reminded the students that while aspiring to be a politician is a noble ambition, it must be built on a solid educational foundation. “Aspiring to be a politician is a noble ambition, but without a solid educational foundation, that dream can quickly turn into frustration,” she cautioned. Drawing from her own life, Hajia Charity spoke candidly about the challenges faced by those who enter politics without proper qualifications. She likened the experience to being a football substitute who never gets the chance to play. “I know this from experience. I’ve worked hard for the party, given everything I had, even sacrificing my own comfort for others. But because I didn’t have the qualifications, I was left behind when it was time for appointments.” She urged the students to learn from the past and avoid repeating the mistakes of her generation. “If we had known earlier, we would have gone back to school and improved ourselves. Education gives you the leverage you need in today’s political landscape. Without it, you might work tirelessly for the party, but when victory comes, you’ll be forgotten while others reap the rewards.” Hajia Charity also warned against the negative trends in modern politics, insults, intimidation, and lies. “I don’t advise any youth to engage in such politics. It doesn’t end well. Lies may spread quickly, but the truth always catches up, even if it’s too late to fix the damage. Focus on your studies, build your career, and let your achievements speak for you,” she advised. Recalling her own struggles, she shared how false rumors had been spread about her loyalty, making her a victim of political machinations. “People lied that the president said not to vote for me, but after the elections, the same president called me back. It was all politics. That’s why I advise you: don’t let lies and pettiness distract you. Stay focused on your goals.” She further encouraged the students to be observant and discerning about whom they trust in politics. “There are people who will ignore the hard work of loyal members and instead reward only their family and friends. This is the reality, but you can rise above it by arming yourself with education.” Hajia Charity concluded with a passionate call to action: “If you want to succeed in politics, build your career first. Get your degree, your masters, your PhD, whatever you can. Then step into politics with confidence, knowing you can stand your ground and claim your rightful place. Don’t let anyone use you, and don’t let your lack of qualifications be an excuse for others to sideline you.” Though she was absent in person, Hajia Charity’s message left a lasting impression. Many students left the ceremony inspired, determined to prioritize their studies alongside their political ambitions. Her story stands as a powerful reminder that with education and integrity, the youth can shape not only their own destinies, but also the future of their communities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East NDC Youth Organizer Urges Appointees to Prioritize Service Over Self-Interest
On Saturday at the Bolgatanga Nursing Training College, the Upper East Regional Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abraham Lambon, addressed an enthusiastic gathering of TEIN students. The air buzzed with anticipation as students from eleven institutions and youth organizers across the region came together for a special mentoring event. Abraham Lambon began by highlighting the purpose of the gathering: “We are here to learn from those who have walked this path before us. The best way to grow is to listen to our experienced party members, understand their journey, and carry those lessons into our own communities.” The goal, he explained, was not just personal growth but the betterment of the region and Ghana as a whole. “The party’s current agenda is only starting,” he reminded them, “and it’s up to the youth to keep its momentum alive.” To drive home his message, Lambon shared a story: Once, a wealthy landlord decided to test the loyalty of his servant, who had served faithfully for over ten years. The landlord confided in his wife, saying, “If this man passes my test, I’ll set him up in business so he can uplift others in our community.” In this tale, Lambon drew a parallel to President John Dramani Mahama, who, recognizing the loyalty and hard work of party members, had appointed credible ministers as a test of trust and service. Lambon warned, however, that not all had lived up to this trust. He cited the example of Mr. Hanan from the region of the previous government, who he alleged had stolen government funds, a model he urged other appointees not to emulate. “My plea to the appointees of John Mahama is this: remember, you have been entrusted with your roles to help the ordinary people, especially those who sacrificed for the party’s victory. Do not repeat past mistakes. Let appointments pass through party structures so that the youth and loyal members benefit.” Recalling the sacrifices made during the party’s years in opposition, including the tragic loss of his colleague from Bono East, Lambon emphasized that now was the time to reward loyalty and hard work. “If we see those sacrifices ignored, we will not hesitate to mobilize and demand justice for our youth.” He also celebrated recent successes, announcing that through the efforts of the National Youth Organizer and the National Care Coordinator, every institution in the region had secured local scholarships for ten needy students each , a tangible fruit of the party’s governance. Lambon closed by urging students to network, learn, and identify mentors among the dignitaries present: “In politics, your biggest asset is your network. Seize this opportunity to connect and grow.” The event drew a remarkable array of party dignitaries and political figures from both within and beyond the region, marking it as a memorable and inspiring day for the youth of the Upper East. Source: Apexnewsgh.com