Roads Minister Calls for Innovative Funding and Private Sector Role to Bridge Ghana’s Transport Gap
Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has called for fresh approaches to financing and delivering Ghana’s transport infrastructure, urging a greater role for the private sector to help close the country’s widening infrastructure gap. Speaking at the 2026 Transport Sector Review Conference in Ho, Volta Region, Mr. Agbodza argued that traditional public financing was no longer sufficient to develop and maintain the roads, bridges, and other critical transport links Ghana needs. The conference, held under the theme “Financing and Delivery of Resilient Transport Infrastructure and Services: A Big Push for Sustainable Economic Transformation,” gathered policymakers, development partners, private-sector representatives, transport unions, academia, and industry experts to chart the sector’s future. According to the minister, Ghana must mobilise additional resources, improve spending efficiency, strengthen asset management, and build an environment that attracts private capital. “The government would explore innovative and predictable financing mechanisms to ensure sustainable funding for infrastructure development and maintenance,” he said. Mr. Agbodza stressed that transport infrastructure should be seen as vital economic connectors, not just physical assets—enabling people, businesses, farmers, and communities to play their part in national growth. “This is why the government has placed the Big Push infrastructure programme at the centre of its development agenda,” he said. Launched in September 2025, the Big Push programme represents a bold national investment drive aimed at plugging infrastructure gaps and supporting economic transformation. Achieving its goals, Mr. Agbodza noted, will require effective financing, efficient project execution, and responsible asset management. The Minister also urged engineers and technical professionals to devise simpler, more cost-effective designs that do not sacrifice quality, durability, or safety. “Engineering solutions should take into consideration Ghana’s financial realities while ensuring that infrastructure remained fit for purpose and capable of serving the needs of communities over the long term,” he emphasised. Mr. Agbodza further called for managers of major transport facilities to prioritise safety and accessibility. He advocated for clear emergency exit signage and proper lighting, especially to aid travellers with visual impairments, stating, “Improving accessibility and safety should form an integral part of infrastructure planning rather than being treated as an afterthought.” He concluded by highlighting the necessity of strong collaboration among government, technical institutions, private-sector actors, and other stakeholders to mobilise the resources and expertise needed to transform Ghana’s transport sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Education Minister Challenges Minority Leader on Claims of Crisis in School Placements
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has pushed back against claims by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin that Ghana’s education sector is facing a crisis over school placements. Speaking on TV3’s “New Day” morning programme, as monitored by Gordon Sackitey, Mr. Iddrisu acknowledged that the government is indeed under significant pressure to respond to the concerns of students and parents, particularly in relation to the placement process. However, he cautioned against labelling the situation as a crisis, arguing that similar challenges have persisted under previous administrations. “Inadequate, for example, I’m struggling with placements. I am. As Minister, I would accept that we have come under overwhelming pressure to respond and be responsive to the needs of Ghanaian students and parents. But it does not mean we should exaggerate it as a crisis,” Mr. Iddrisu stated. A former Minority Leader himself, Mr. Iddrisu also addressed the current Minority leadership, emphasizing that the office carries significant responsibility and requires careful communication and consultation. He commended Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s performance but urged him to consult more widely and work collaboratively with his team. “The Honourable Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin is doing well but on a few enterprises of the Minority leadership, he needs to be doing more consultation and work with a team,” he said. Mr. Iddrisu further questioned whether the challenges being described as a crisis were new to Ghana’s education system, asking, “So when the Honourable Afenyo says crisis, did the crisis start one and a half years ago or…? He should provide answers.” Defending Ghana’s democratic credentials, the Minister described the country as a beacon of hope in Africa and stressed the importance of protecting its democratic ethos. He reiterated that the Office of the Minority Leader should be guided by facts and truth, stating, “The Office of the Minority Leader is a very important office. So when you are not sure, don’t speak.” The exchange comes amid renewed political debate over ongoing challenges in the education sector, especially the placement of students into Senior High Schools. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Seven Dead, 21 Injured in Tragic Accident on Hwideim-Acherensua Highway
A devastating road crash on the Hwideim-Acherensua Highway in the Ahafo Region has claimed the lives of seven people and left 21 others injured. The accident occurred on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, involving a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bus (registration GT-9931-09) and a Kia Picanto (registration BA-731-20). According to a statement from the Ghana National Fire Service shared on Facebook, preliminary investigations revealed that the Sprinter bus suffered a tyre burst while traveling along the highway. The driver lost control, causing the vehicle to somersault and collide with the oncoming Kia Picanto. Firefighters from the Hwideim District Fire Station responded swiftly to the scene, rescuing the victims from the wreckage of both vehicles. The injured were immediately transported to the St Elizabeth Hospital in Hwideim for urgent medical attention. Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority Demands Full Documentary Evidence on South Africa Evacuation Expenditure
The Minority in Parliament has intensified its demand for the government to provide comprehensive documentation detailing the costs incurred during the voluntary evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa amid recent xenophobic attacks. The renewed call comes after a September 7 briefing by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who revealed that the government spent GH¢49.7 million to evacuate 1,964 Ghanaians from South Africa. While the Minority welcomed the disclosure, they insist that the minister’s statement must be substantiated with verifiable records that would allow Parliament and the public to independently confirm the expenditure. Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Nana Asafo Adjei Ayeh, had previously filed a Right to Information (RTI) request seeking details of the evacuation, including full expense records and information on the individuals and organisations that contributed to the exercise. Addressing the press on Thursday, September 10, Asafo Adjei Ayeh clarified that the Minority is not seeking any private information about evacuees but is calling for documents necessary to verify the government’s financial account. “Nobody is asking government to publish passport, medical diagnosis, bank account numbers or other unnecessary private information. We are asking for enough documentary information to verify the public account,” he explained. The Minority supports the government’s decision to assist citizens wishing to return home and acknowledged the Foreign Affairs Minister’s disclosure as a positive step. However, they argue that public figures announced at a press conference are not sufficient for proper verification. According to Asafo Adjei Ayeh, the government’s claims that the operation is complete, all liabilities settled, 1,964 people evacuated, and GH¢49,721,786 spent must be supported by relevant financial and operational records. “If the books are closed, then let’s open the books. Let the travel ledger reconcile with the payment ledger. Let the first phase manifest reconcile with the final first phase number. Let every commercial batch reconcile with the ticket and invoice,” he urged. He added, “We do not need accusations where documents can provide answers. We do not need speculation where accounts can be established.” The Minority is therefore calling on the government to make a full documentary account of the evacuation operation available, arguing that such transparency would boost public confidence and demonstrate responsible use of public funds. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Flags Low Compliance with Governance Standards Among Public Entities
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed serious concerns about the low level of compliance with key governance and accountability requirements among public entities in Ghana. Speaking at the SIGA Governing Boards and CEOs Conference 2026 on Thursday, September 10, the President revealed that only 72 out of the 148 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) expected to sign performance contracts had done so since his administration took office. While acknowledging improvements in the governance and management of public institutions, President Mahama warned that these positive changes should not be mistaken for the resolution of all governance issues. He pointed out that several entities were still falling short on crucial statutory and administrative obligations, particularly in the submission of audited financial statements, performance contracts, quarterly reports, annual general meetings, and employment data. “We must not confuse improvement with complete success. Only 61 entities submitted their audited financial statements by the statutory deadline of April 30. A significant number of entities either submitted after the deadline or still relied on management and draft accounts,” President Mahama noted. He further highlighted that, in addition to the low number of signed performance contracts, only 71 entities had submitted their quarterly reports, and just 37 out of 177 had held their required annual general or stakeholder meetings. Employment data submissions also declined, dropping from 142 entities in 2024 to 137 in 2025. “These compliance gaps are unacceptable,” President Mahama stressed, urging all public entities to meet their governance and reporting obligations to improve transparency and accountability in the management of state resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Three Companies Advance to Next Stage in Ghana’s 5G Spectrum Race
Ghana’s journey toward 5G connectivity took a major step forward as the National Communications Authority (NCA) announced that three companies have advanced to the next phase of the country’s 5G spectrum licensing process. The companies approved to proceed are Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana), and Goal Telecommunications Ltd. The NCA disclosed that it had received four applications for the highly anticipated 5G spectrum licences, covering the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 3 GHz frequency bands. The submission deadline was 5 PM on August 27, 2026. Of the four contenders, Infrava Ltd was the only applicant not to make the cut. The selection process involved a rigorous Eligibility Review and Technical Qualification Assessment, where applicants were evaluated based on technical and qualification submissions contained in what the NCA described as Envelope A. In a statement released on Wednesday, September 9, the NCA confirmed, “Of the four applications received by the submission deadline of 5 PM on August 27, 2026, three applicants have qualified to proceed to the next stage of the selection process.” All applicants have been notified of the results, and reasons for disqualification were provided where relevant. The three successful companies will now move on to Stage 3 of the selection process, which will determine their final ranking and allocation of spectrum. The NCA clarified that “only the Qualified Applicants will proceed to Stage 3 of the selection process. Accordingly, the Envelope B submitted by the Non-qualified Applicant will not be opened.” As the process moves forward, the NCA will separately inform the qualified companies about the date, time, and venue for the opening and ranking of their Best Price Offers. The competition for Ghana’s 5G future is heating up, with only the strongest contenders left in the race. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Demands Answers: 30-Day Ultimatum for Rural Telephony Report
In a move that has stirred Ghana’s tech and political circles, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has issued a 30-day ultimatum to the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations. The party wants the Ministry to publish a comprehensive status report on the Ghana Rural Telephony and Digital Inclusion Project, a flagship initiative meant to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. The demand, spearheaded by the NPP’s Policy Committee on Communications and Digitalization, was made public following a high-level briefing by Communication Minister Samuel Nartey George. The Minister had outlined the government’s plan to upgrade rural telephony sites to at least 4G, but the NPP insists that more transparency is needed on the current state of the project. According to a statement signed by Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Chairman of the NPP Policy Co-ordination Committee, the party is seeking detailed data: How many sites have been constructed, connected, and are fully operational? How many have been built but remain out of service? The NPP argues that these answers are critical to understanding the real progress made. Rejecting claims that rural connectivity had been neglected in the previous decade, the NPP stated that, contrary to the Minister’s characterization, “the records show significant investments were made under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration.” The Ghana Rural Telephony and Digital Inclusion Project, they pointed out, was launched in 2020 with a €155 million facility from the China EXIM Bank, aiming to build 2,016 sites and connect 3-4 million people. By the end of the last NPP administration in January 2025, the party claims, 1,961 sites had been constructed, with equipment procured for 400 more. But since the change in government, the NPP alleges, progress has stalled. “No new rural telephony site was constructed in 2025 despite the availability of equipment,” the statement read. Even more troubling, the NPP says that many previously operational sites are now offline. The party also pushed back against suggestions that 46 sites could not be connected because they are in hard-to-reach areas. “A satellite hub at the Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT had already been upgraded to provide backhaul services,” the NPP said. They argue that the issue is not technical, but a matter of administrative delays and commercial arrangements that have yet to be finalized. While the NPP welcomed government plans to upgrade rural infrastructure to 4G, they cautioned against leaving existing sites disconnected or allowing service to lapse. Their demands are clear: The Ministry and the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) must publish a deployment schedule for the remaining sites, report on the operational status of the satellite hub, and share a detailed plan, including costs and timelines, for the 4G upgrade. The party also wants Parliament’s Select Committee on Communications to be briefed with verifiable data, not just public statements or claims. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Robert Sampana Elected Upper East Regional President Of Association Of The Deaf
The Upper East Regional Association of the Deaf (UERAD), a regional branch of the Ghana National Association of the Deaf, has ushered in a new chapter of inclusive leadership following the election of Robert Sampana as its new Regional President. Sampana, a native of Talen Teng from Datoko, brings strong community ties and a firm commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of Deaf people in the Upper East Region. His election is expected to strengthen advocacy for greater inclusion and accessibility, particularly through the mainstreaming of Ghanaian Sign Language (GSL) interpretation at public programmes and engagements. A key priority of his administration will be to address communication barriers that often prevent Deaf persons from accessing vital information and participating fully in public life. Sampana also intends to build stronger partnerships with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), and healthcare institutions to promote the inclusion of Deaf people in development programmes and improve their access to essential healthcare services. Through these collaborations, his administration seeks to ensure that Deaf persons are not only represented but are also adequately informed, consulted and given equal opportunities to benefit from public services. The new leadership is therefore expected to position UERAD as a stronger voice for the Deaf community while championing a more inclusive and accessible Upper East Region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Sam George: Galamsey Accounts for 25% of Fibre Network Disruptions in Ghana
Illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, is fast becoming the unseen saboteur of Ghana’s digital lifelines. At a recent Government Accountability Series event, Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Minister Samuel Nartey George revealed a troubling statistic: about one in every four fibre-optic cable cuts recorded nationwide can be traced back to the activities of galamsey operators. Beneath Ghana’s bustling towns and quiet villages, a complex web of fibre-optic cables keeps people connected, to each other and to the world. But this vital infrastructure faces a growing threat from those digging for gold. “Twenty-five percent of fibre cuts are a result of galamsey,” Minister George stated. “The telecom industry is one of the worst hit by the activities of galamsey operators.” Unlike road construction crews, who typically alert authorities when their work could disrupt underground cables, illegal miners rarely provide any warning. As they excavate in search of precious minerals, they often damage fibre lines, leaving telecommunications companies scrambling to trace and repair the breaks, often without any idea where to begin. The result is widespread disruption, especially in areas where there are no alternative fibre routes. Voice and data traffic can grind to a halt, leaving entire communities isolated from modern communication. The repercussions ripple far beyond mere inconvenience. Each fibre cut forces telecom companies to deploy teams and equipment at significant cost, straining their resources and threatening the reliability of Ghana’s digital services. Minister George warned that if this trend continues, the backbone of the nation’s telecommunications could be fatally undermined, deepening network disruptions and jeopardizing the country’s digital future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Gbane Opinion Leader Raises Security Concerns Over Mining Suspension
An opinion leader in the Gbane community in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region, Alhaji Fahad Bagremertamme, has expressed concern over the potential security implications following the order by the Inspector of mines ordering Nanlamtaaba Enterprise and Earl International Mining Company to suspend its mining operations. According to Alhaji Fahad, the people of Gbane respect the rule of law and have no objection to the court’s decision if it is implemented according to due process. He, however, questioned the activities of individuals he identified as “Poloo and his associates,” arguing that their actions were creating tension within the community. “We respect the rule of law, and if the judge has said the company should come and work, we have no problem with that because we respect the jurisprudence,” he said. He added that the court’s directive by the Inspector of mines for the company to stop working for two weeks could have serious consequences for the community, particularly given the high level of unemployment and insecurity in the area. Alhaji Fahad said a significant proportion of residents depend directly or indirectly on mining-related activities for their livelihoods, and expressed concern that a sudden suspension of operations could leave many young people without work. “Almost 45 or 50 percent of the people here are working in the mining sector. So, if these guys are asked to stay at home for two weeks, it could bring a lot of disturbance,” he stated. He further raised concerns about the security situation in Gbane, noting that the community has experienced incidents of armed robbery and other security challenges. According to him, there are also concerns surrounding individuals allegedly providing protection for persons involved in the mining dispute. He alleged that some individuals had previously been arrested by the military with AK-47 rifles and sent to court, but said the community was uncertain about the outcome of the case. “These are the same people back there protecting Poloo. So, I don’t know,” he said. The situation, he explained, had heightened fear among residents, particularly those working around mining sites. He recounted concerns about armed individuals allegedly approaching people at mining locations and ordering them to leave, questioning the circumstances under which such actions were taking place. Alhaji Fahad therefore appealed to the government and relevant security authorities to intervene urgently to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the dispute. He warned that if the situation was not addressed, community members could be forced to consider protecting themselves, a development he said could further escalate tensions. He nevertheless stressed that the community’s leadership had been urging the youth to remain calm and avoid retaliation. “We have advised all our youth to calm down and not retaliate. If not for that, by now things could have been worse,” he said. The opinion leader maintained that preserving peace remained the priority, urging the government and security agencies to act swiftly to prevent the mining dispute from developing into a wider security crisis in Gbane. Source: Apexnewsgh.com