Journalists Gather to Strengthen Climate Resilience in Ghana’s WASH Sector
A group of passionate members of Ghana Watsan Journalists Network (GWJN) across the country gathered for a unique training session that would shape the future of climate reporting in the country. The meeting, organized by Bawku East Women’s Development Association (BEWDA) and WaterAid as part of the broader CEDAW-CLIMB partnership, with support from the Swedish government and WaterAid UK/Ghana, aimed to empower reporters with knowledge at the intersection of climate change and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene). The presenters painted a vivid picture of Ghana’s changing environment: groundwater sources dwindling, unpredictable weather patterns, coastal erosion, droughts, and floods. These changes, they explained, deeply affect health and livelihoods, but place especially heavy burdens on women and girls. Fetching household water, managing menstrual hygiene, and ensuring maternal care all become more difficult as climate impacts worsen. As the conversation unfolded, the group explored what it truly means to build climate resilience in WASH. Mr. Ibrahim Musah, one of the presenters, described resilience as the ability of social, economic, and environmental systems to cope, adapt, and transform in the face of challenges. He suggested two key measures for water systems: structural robustness and continued service delivery. To bring these ideas to life, he recounted stories from Bawku West and other Upper East communities, where flooded platforms, seasonal drops in borehole yields, and collapsed latrines exposed the fragility of local infrastructure. The room buzzed with debate as participants discussed how construction practices, regular monitoring, and strong evidence collection could help communities withstand climate shocks. The session also demystified the concepts of climate-resilient WASH and the financial mechanisms available to support it, including the Green Climate Fund and guidelines from the Sanitation and Water for All initiative. The presenters emphasized that winning funding requires more than good intentions: proposals must be grounded in scientific evidence, demonstrate a clear climate rationale, and show what additional benefits will be delivered. To equip journalists for this task, the training introduced modeling tools and long-term trend analyses, essential resources for crafting evidence-based climate proposals and advocating for community-centered climate justice. By the end of the day, the journalists left not just with new knowledge but with a shared sense of purpose, to tell the stories that will drive resilience and justice for all Ghanaians. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NorthLite Solar Limited Hosts Cocktail Engagement to Celebrate 16 Years of Impact in Upper East Region
On a vibrant Friday evening, the headquarters of NorthLite Solar Limited in Zuarungu, Bolgatanga East, Upper East Region, transformed into a lively venue as clients, partners, and stakeholders gathered for a special cocktail engagement. The event, designed to foster connection and showcase NorthLite’s journey, marked another milestone in the company’s 16-year commitment to renewable energy and community upliftment. Mr. Adabre Akasoba Frank, the Chief Executive Officer, spoke passionately to Apexewsgh about the purpose of the gathering. “This event is mainly to socialize with the public and further share some of the packages offered by NorthLite Solar Limited,” he said. “We have been present in Bolga for 16 years; this is our headquarters. Here, we handle both off-grid and on-grid solar projects, always striving to touch lives and provide the best renewable energy services.” But NorthLite’s reach extends far beyond Bolgatanga. With a business location in Accra’s Airport City and a global office in Maryland, USA, NorthLite has established a footprint that enables them to attract investments and drive impact on a larger scale. Their mission? To deliver clean energy solutions tailored for both residential and commercial clients, while easing financial barriers through flexible, custom financing options. Partnerships with leading banks such as EcoBank, Stanbic, and Fidelity, as well as international financiers, allow NorthLite to support customers at every level. Importantly, NorthLite is dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities. “We are especially proud to help female farmers in pro-poor areas and ensure peri-urban communities gain access to electricity,” Mr. Frank explained. “Our approach is holistic; we engage people, understand their unique energy needs, and design products or services to meet them. Where financing is a hurdle, we intervene with pre-financed projects or even provide solutions free of charge, thanks to grants from multinational entities.” The impact of NorthLite’s work is visible throughout the Upper East Region and beyond. “Ten years ago, we might have reached a community school or a small clinic. Today, our services touch thousands, even in urban areas like Bolga,” Mr. Frank said with pride. Besides expanding access to electricity, NorthLite’s projects contribute to reducing CO2 emissions and making electricity a right for all, irrespective of income or location. The cocktail event also served as a platform for partners to share their experiences. Representatives from Stanbic Bank and EcoBank highlighted their ongoing collaboration with NorthLite, while clients such as Prof. David Millar of the Millar Institute and Akayet Hotel testified to the durability, reliability, and quality of NorthLite’s services. They encouraged other institutions to patronize NorthLite for their energy needs. As the evening unfolded, invited guests exchanged contacts and ideas, strengthening bonds across the renewable energy ecosystem. The event underscored NorthLite Solar Limited’s unwavering dedication to sustainable development, community empowerment, and creating lasting impact, one solar project at a time. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Nigeria’s Ruling Party Climate Network Backs APC Chairmanship Candidate for Bwari in Abuja Elections
The APC Climate Change Network (ACCN), a support group aligned with Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has pledged its support to Hon. Haruna Shekwolo Ushafa, the party’s chairmanship candidate for the upcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Councils elections in Bwari. Members of the network paid a courtesy visit to Ushafa at his residence in Ushafa, Bwari, on Tuesday, underscoring their commitment to backing his campaign with grassroots mobilization and climate-focused advocacy. Speaking during the visit, ACCN National Coordinator, Citizen Greg Odogwu, said the group was “strongly behind” Ushafa and would support his campaign through the distribution of flyers and the promotion of environmental sustainability principles throughout and beyond the election period. Odogwu described the candidate as “Sustainable Shekwolo,” citing his experience, leadership style, and track record as indicators of his capacity to build climate resilience in Bwari Area Council if elected. “His pedigree, experience, and body language show that he understands the issues and has what it takes to make Bwari climate-resilient,” Odogwu said. In response, Ushafa acknowledged the growing impact of climate change and emphasized the need for urgent action at the grassroots level. He said his team recognizes climate change as a real and pressing challenge, particularly for rural communities whose livelihoods depend heavily on agriculture. “There are many things that must be done to make our Area Council resilient and to improve the lives of our people, especially rural farmers,” Ushafa said. “We can adopt climate-smart agriculture and upgrade agricultural facilities, which will automatically improve livelihoods.” He also highlighted the economic costs of climate change, pointing to erosion and infrastructure degradation as major challenges facing the area council. “When erosion caused by climate change is not controlled, it accelerates the deterioration of roads,” Ushafa noted. “As a result, we incur significant economic losses as an Area Council. We look forward to working closely with your network.” Also speaking at the event, the ACCN Coordinator for Bwari, Hon. Charles Nwokedi, reaffirmed the group’s support for Ushafa, noting that the network has a presence across all wards in Bwari Area Council. “We are solidly behind you,” Nwokedi said. “With our structures across the wards, we are on standby to support your campaign efforts.” The FCT Area Councils elections are expected to be closely watched, with climate resilience and sustainable development emerging as key themes in local governance debates. Background: APC Climate Change Network The APC Climate Change Network is an organized cadre of party members and climate advocates within the APC, formed to elevate environmental issues and climate action within the party’s agenda and outreach strategy. The network describes itself as a coalition of “climate champions” drawn from wards, local governments, and states across Nigeria, aiming to promote awareness of climate change, carbon literacy, and green transitions among party members and constituents. It supports the party’s alignment with national climate policies and the federal government’s climate action and energy transition goals. Since its convening in 2022, the ACCN has engaged in initiatives such as advocating for sector-specific climate action plans within the APC, organizing climate policy dialogues, and endorsing candidates whose platforms emphasize sustainable development. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The experiment of Biochar by the Millar Institute proves massive results
On the fertile fields of the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies, a quiet revolution is taking root, one that promises to transform the lives of farmers across Ghana and contribute to a greener planet. Last season, the Institute launched the Grass Biochar Experiment, an ambitious initiative to test the power of biochar as a sustainable organic fertilizer. The experiment began on a modest test farm, where researchers blended biochar into the soil and closely monitored its effects on crop growth and soil health. As the weeks unfolded, the results exceeded all expectations: crops grew stronger and healthier, soil fertility improved dramatically, and yields soared. The implications of these findings extend far beyond the test plots. Biochar, produced from plant material, offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional synthetic fertilizers. Its use not only boosts agricultural productivity and food security but also holds promise for mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil. “We are thrilled with the results of the Grass Biochar Experiment,” announced the President of the Millar Institute, reflecting the excitement spreading through the agricultural community. “Biochar has the potential to revolutionize agriculture in Ghana, and we look forward to working with farmers and stakeholders to promote its adoption.” Encouraged by these remarkable outcomes, the Millar Institute is preparing to expand the experiment. Plans are underway to collaborate with farmers throughout Ghana, tailoring biochar techniques to different environments and crop needs. This initiative is part of the Institute’s ongoing commitment to sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and innovative solutions for rural livelihoods. As the Grass Biochar Experiment continues to grow, so does the hope for a more productive, resilient, and environmentally conscious agricultural sector in Ghana. The Millar Institute stands at the forefront of this movement, empowering farmers with new tools and knowledge to nurture their land—and the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mediterranean’s Dark Catch: Climate Change and Lax Oversight Enable IUU Fishing
Illegal fishing continues to infiltrate European markets, driven by weak import controls, opaque ownership structures, and loopholes in port inspections. A recent study commissioned by Oceana reveals that the EU’s long-distance fleet is more than twice as large as officially reported when foreign-flagged vessels owned by EU companies are included. But experts warn that climate change is compounding the problem, creating new pressures on fish stocks and pushing illegal operators deeper into the shadows. Warming seas and shifting fish populations are making once-abundant species harder to find in traditional fishing grounds. This fuels competition, driving some operators to cut corners or deliberately bypass rules. “Climate change reduces availability in certain areas, and when demand stays high, illegal fishing fills the gap,” said one investigator. Weakened stocks also make it easier for fishers to launder catches. When species decline due to warming waters, it becomes harder for authorities to distinguish between legally caught and illegally sourced fish, especially when imports rely on paper-based catch certificates that are easy to forge. At major landing sites, like Palermo in Italy, investigators uncovered networks of intermediaries and “fishlanders” mixing illegal and legal catches. “It’s like a fish laundry, once mixed, you cannot tell which fish is legal and which is not,” one source explained. Transforming and processing plants add another layer of opacity, where forged certificates enable illegally caught fish to be exported to the EU undetected. Industrial vessels are supposed to carry AIS satellite trackers, but many disappear from platforms such as MarineTraffic or Global Fishing Watch. Climate-driven changes in fish distribution mean fleets travel further and stay at sea longer, sometimes transferring catches to container ships offshore to avoid scrutiny. Meanwhile, powerful artisanal vessels, such as those seen in Tunisia, remain invisible to tracking systems despite operating with industrial-scale engines. Ownership remains one of the weakest points of oversight. Many vessels are linked to shell companies in tax havens, making accountability nearly impossible. In Malta, authorities uncovered a “company” that turned out to be little more than a postbox, shielding Russian owners behind layers of intermediaries. A global review of 19,000 large vessels found that 62% had no ownership records in leading databases. Spain, France, China, and Taiwan, all major fleets, were among the worst performers. The EU’s footprint is even larger than reported: more than 344 EU-owned vessels are flagged in 43 non-EU countries, from Panama to Senegal. Spain, the Netherlands, and Italy dominate these offshore registrations. In some cases, one in four vessels is flagged to countries with poor fisheries governance, flagged as tax havens, or already warned by the EU. This undermines both EU rules and global fisheries agreements. As rising sea temperatures and acidification drive species into new waters, weak governance and opaque ownership will continue to enable illegal actors to profit. Without strong digital certification systems, transparent ownership registries, and stricter port inspections, climate change will only widen the gap between demand and legal supply. “If we don’t know who owns the vessels, where the fish really comes from, or how it gets to our plates, illegal fishing will continue to thrive, and climate change makes the problem even worse.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com Email: apexnewsgh@gmail.com
NRA and NCA Join Forces to Tackle Telecom Radiation Risks
Ghana’s telecommunications sector is set for tighter oversight as the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) and the National Communications Authority (NCA) embark on a groundbreaking partnership to ensure public safety and strict emission standards. The collaboration, announced by Professor Emmanuel Ampomah-Amoako, Director of Nuclear Installations at the NRA, during a nationwide training workshop for selected journalists on August 27, 2025, signals a major step forward in telecom regulation. “As we speak, the NRA is working with the NCA to regulate the telcos, and it’s work ongoing,” Professor Ampomah-Amoako revealed, stressing that this alliance goes beyond emissions to address the broader operations of telecom companies. With the NRA now taking over the responsibilities of the former Radiation Protection Board, its regulatory scope has expanded to cover vital telecom infrastructure, most notably, mobile phone masts that have sparked public concerns over potential radiation exposure. The NCA, meanwhile, will continue to manage licensing and operational compliance, making sure telecom operators meet rigorous technical and safety standards. Professor Ampomah-Amoako highlighted that the focus isn’t solely on enforcement: “It is also about the functioning of the telcos, which the NCA provides the final authorization,” he explained. The partnership seeks to guarantee that telecom companies operate safely and within internationally approved emission limits. The joint regulatory initiative is designed to protect public health and restore confidence in telecom services, especially as infrastructure rapidly expands into residential areas. By ensuring radiation levels remain within global safety guidelines, the NRA and NCA aim to reassure Ghanaians that their connectivity is not only fast, but also safe. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Environmental Group Sounds Alarm Over Tree Felling Along Atomic-Kwabenya Highway
A Rocha Ghana, an environmental advocacy organization, has raised significant concerns regarding the ongoing destruction of trees along the Atomic-Kwabenya Highway. Apexnewsgh reports The group is calling on the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) to take immediate action to stop this practice and to embrace more sustainable methods of urban development. In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 20, A Rocha Ghana characterized the tree removals as “indiscriminate” and highlighted the broader implications for the environment. They warned that the continued deforestation poses a severe threat to local biodiversity, exacerbates urban heat, and ultimately leads to long-term ecological damage. “The felling of trees along the Atomic-Kwabenya Highway must cease immediately. A clear, enforceable plan for replanting and maintaining green cover is essential,” the group asserted, emphasizing the need for responsible stewardship of green spaces in urban environments. A Rocha Ghana advocated for a policy where any tree that is cut down should be replaced with at least two native species in suitable locations, accompanied by strict monitoring protocols to ensure their growth and survival. The organization stressed that sustainable urban development should balance infrastructure advancement with ecological responsibility. The group referenced a specific instance from the previous year, where two trees were “hurriedly felled” with support from the GAEC to accommodate the establishment of a fuel station near the Maker’s House Chapel. A Rocha questioned how such approval was granted for a development within a sensitive wetland zone situated between the Atomic Police Station and the GAEC entrance. “This development is very unfortunate and needless. Urban Roads had to pause construction works after public outcry to redesign the road to protect the trees. Now that the plan is set, other agents are going in to deliberately destroy the trees gradually. This is environmental sabotage and shameful,” the statement read. Furthermore, A Rocha Ghana criticized what they described as a “lazy approach” to urban forestry, where trees are often removed at the slightest perceived risk without taking measures to preserve or manage them properly. “The health of city residents and the ecological resilience of our urban spaces depend on proactive and progressive forest management. We must act now to prevent further environmental harm,” the organization concluded, imploring stakeholders to prioritize the environment in urban planning. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Police Storm Forest Reserve, Arrest 26 in Major Illegal Mining Bust
Ghana Police have raided a forest reserve near Samreboi in the Western Region, leading to the arrest of 26 individuals involved in the unlawful extraction of gold. Apexnewsgh reports The operation, which revealed deep-rooted issues related to environmental degradation, saw six Chinese nationals, two Koreans, and eighteen Ghanaians apprehended as they worked within a protected area. The meticulously coordinated raid was executed by elite units of the Ghana Police, including the Intelligence Directorate, the Criminal Investigations Department, the National Operations Directorate, and the Formed Police Unit. The intelligence-driven operation emerged from the urgent need to combat illegal mining activities that have ravaged Ghana’s forests and polluted its waterways. What has sent shockwaves through the political landscape is the connection drawn between this illegal mining site and Akonta Mining Company, owned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako—better known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). While this isn’t the first time Wontumi has been linked to controversies surrounding gold mining, the scale and organization of this bust have cast new light on the magnitude of the problem and the political entanglements involved. Upon arrival, law enforcement officials uncovered a staggering amount of mining and security equipment, including eight excavators (with five left behind due to logistical complications), two Toyota Hilux pickups, a Toyota RAV4, four motorbikes, and a myriad of tools and firearms. The cache underscored the extent of illegal operations that have left the forest scarred—trees flattened, land gouged, and water bodies poisoned, impacting local communities that depend on these resources. Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, hailed the professionalism of the police in carrying out the operation and reiterated their commitment to fighting illegal mining. “This operation marks a significant step in our battle against environmental terrorism. We are determined to protect our nation’s natural resources for future generations,” he asserted. Currently, the suspects remain in custody, poised to face legal proceedings in the upcoming days. The political ramifications of this incident are already igniting public debate, especially as Ghana approaches an election season where issues of galamsey, corruption, and environmental governance are set to dominate the discourse. Environmental advocates are urging for an independent inquiry into the political protection that clandestine mining operations seem to enjoy, while opposition parties are calling for greater transparency and accountability from those in positions of power. The unfolding events not only expose a glaring environmental crisis but also highlight the complex interplay of politics and illegal mining in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Prof. Michael Ayamga-Adongo Commends MP Murtala Mohammed for Environmental Advocacy
A notable expression of admiration resonated across social media as Associate Professor Michael Ayamga-Adongo took to his Facebook wall to share his thoughts on a commendable government appointee. Apexnewsgh reports The focus of his praise was none other than Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the dedicated Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister of the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation. In a world where many merely pay lip service to the pressing issue of illegal mining, or “gallamsey,” Prof. Ayamga-Adongo highlighted Mohammed’s genuine enthusiasm and commitment to the cause of preserving Ghana’s environment. “Many just say fight gallamsey because it’s popular,” he noted. “However, one person who stands out as truly passionate about our environment and promoting sustainable extractivism is Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.” The professor emphasized that this dedication extends beyond public appearances, asserting that Mohammed’s commitment is as evident in private discussions as it is in his public endeavors. He believes that environmental preservation and the transition to sustainable extractivism must go hand in hand, reinforcing the need for a balanced approach to Ghana’s natural resources. With an inspiring sense of readiness, Prof. Ayamga-Adongo concluded, “His boots are laced and ready for the challenge.” His heartfelt endorsement underscores that while many may talk the talk, there are few who walk the walk with the same level of passion and integrity as Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
EPA CEO Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse Vows to Protect Ghana’s Environment
Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), has reaffirmed her commitment to protecting and preserving Ghana’s environment. Apexnewsgh reports In a statement on her X page, Prof. Klutse expressed her dedication to upholding the EPA’s mission, following a meeting with outgoing Executive Director Mr. John Kingsley Krugu on January 22. The meeting aimed to ensure a seamless transition of leadership, with Mr. Krugu providing Prof. Klutse with a comprehensive briefing on the current state of affairs at the EPA. A key highlight of the briefing was the institution’s elevation from an agency to an authority, granting it a broader mandate to protect Ghana’s environment. Prof. Klutse, a renowned climatologist and lecturer at the University of Ghana, has an impressive track record of research and publications focused on climate dynamics, variability, and impacts assessment. Her expertise will undoubtedly be invaluable in driving the EPA’s mission forward. With her commitment to serving the people of Ghana and protecting the environment, Prof. Klutse has set the tone for her tenure as CEO of the EPA. As she embarks on this new chapter, Ghanaians can expect a renewed focus on environmental protection and sustainability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com