Transport Fares Hang in the Balance as Fuel Prices Threaten to Rise
Commuters in Ghana may soon feel the pinch at the lorry station. The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has sounded a cautious warning: if fuel prices go up, transport fares will likely follow. The alert came on March 15, when the union’s Industrial Relations Officer, Abass Imoro, sat down for an interview to address growing concerns about the cost of moving people across the country. He revealed that some drivers, already buckling under rising operating expenses, had taken matters into their own hands by quietly hiking fares without authorization. The union, however, was quick to intervene, rolling back those increases and restoring the officially approved rates. Drivers had held onto hope that the recent weakening of the dollar would bring some relief, particularly on the cost of lubricants and other essential inputs. That hope, Mr. Imoro admitted, has largely gone unfulfilled. Prices have remained stubbornly high, and the financial pressure on transport operators continues to mount. Still, Mr. Imoro was keen to reassure the public that the union would not act in haste. Should fuel prices rise and trigger a review of fares, he said, the leadership would first take time to study market trends before announcing any changes, a measured approach aimed at protecting commuters from sudden, unplanned increases. But the clouds on the horizon are darkening. Duncan Amoah, Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers, has issued a stark warning: petrol and diesel prices could surge to between 13 and 15 cedis per litre. He pointed to supply disruptions fuelled by escalating tensions in parts of the Middle East as the key driver behind the anticipated spike. For everyday Ghanaians who depend on commercial transport to get to work, school, and market, the coming weeks may demand closer attention, and perhaps a tighter grip on their wallets. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alleged Ant-Trafficking Kingpin Caught at Nairobi Airport with Over 2,000 Queen Ants
A Chinese national accused of being the mastermind behind a Kenya-based anti-trafficking ring has been arrested at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after attempting to smuggle more than 2,000 live queen garden ants out of the country, the BBC reports. Zhang Kequn was intercepted during a routine security check as he prepared to board a flight to China. What authorities found in his luggage was anything but routine: a carefully concealed consignment of live ants, packed with the kind of precision that suggested this was no amateur operation. According to state prosecutor Allen Mulama, who addressed the court on Wednesday, the ants had been distributed across two hiding spots within Zhang’s personal luggage. “Within his personal luggage, there was found 1,948 garden ants packed in specialised test tubes,” he told the court, adding that “a further 300 live ants were recovered concealed in three rolls of tissue paper within the luggage.” Zhang has yet to respond to the accusations. However, investigators told the court that he is linked to an anti-trafficking network that was dismantled in Kenya last year, and that he had apparently evaded arrest at the time by fleeing the country on a different passport. The ants in question, scientifically known as Messor cephalotes, are giant African harvester ants protected under international biodiversity treaties. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has previously warned of a surging demand for the species in Europe and Asia, where collectors prize them as exotic pets. Their removal from the wild, the KWS has cautioned, poses a real threat to soil health and broader ecosystem stability. This latest arrest follows a landmark case from last May, in which a Kenyan court sentenced four men, two Belgians, a Vietnamese national, and a Kenyan, to one year in prison or a fine of $7,700 (£5,800) for a similar smuggling attempt. The four had pleaded guilty after their arrest in what the KWS described as “a coordinated, intelligence-led operation.” The Belgians, notably, told the court they had been collecting the ants as a hobby and were unaware it was illegal. Investigators now believe Zhang was the driving force behind that same network. The court on Wednesday granted prosecutors permission to detain him for five days while detectives conduct further investigations, including a forensic examination of his phone and laptop. Senior KWS official Duncan Juma told the BBC that the probe is far from over, with more arrests expected as investigators extend their reach into other Kenyan towns where ant harvesting is suspected to be taking place. For the KWS, an agency more accustomed to protecting lions and elephants, the growing ant-trafficking trade represents an unexpected but increasingly serious frontier in wildlife crime. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Only 1,000 to Be Recruited Out of 180,000 Ghana Immigration Service Applicants, Says Interior Minister
The Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, has revealed that just 1,000 young people will be recruited into the Ghana Immigration Service, despite more than 180,000 applicants vying for positions during the recent recruitment exercise. Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, March 11, Mr. Muntaka addressed the overwhelming demand for jobs among Ghana’s youth and clarified the constraints facing the country’s security agencies. He explained that while thousands expressed interest in joining the Immigration Service, the organization’s current infrastructure and logistical capacity can only accommodate a fraction of the applicants. “The total of over 180,000 young men wanted to join the Ghana Immigration Service. But the interesting thing is that today, the Ghana Immigration Service, the strength, from the Comptroller General to the last officer, stands at 18,300. Less than 20,000, yet you have 180,000 opting to join,” the Minister noted. Mr. Muntaka added that, due to limitations in training and accommodation facilities, only 1,000 new recruits can be taken in during this recruitment cycle. “Unfortunately, because of the physical space, we could only have space for 1,000,” he said. He described the situation as a clear indication of the intense competition for positions within the security services and a reminder of the pressing need for job creation to address the aspirations of Ghana’s growing youth population. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
FDA Launches Nationwide Crackdown on Suspected Plastic Use in Plantain Chips
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has launched a sweeping nationwide market surveillance and laboratory testing initiative after alarming reports surfaced that some plantain chip vendors are using melted plastic to fry their products. This decisive action was triggered by viral videos and social media reports alleging that certain vendors are adding polythene materials to hot oil during the preparation of plantain chips. The practice, purportedly aimed at making the chips crispier and extending their shelf life, has raised urgent food safety concerns across the country. In an official statement, the FDA condemned the alleged use of melted plastic as extremely dangerous. The authority warned that melting plastic in frying oil results in direct chemical contamination, making the food unfit for human consumption. According to the FDA, heating plastics such as low-density polyethene in hot oil can cause harmful chemicals to migrate into the food. The process speeds up the release of plasticisers, phthalates, and antioxidants, all of which are potentially toxic to consumers. Citing scientific research, the authority highlighted that long-term exposure to such chemicals is linked to endocrine disruption, hormonal imbalances, and a higher risk of certain cancers. The FDA reminded the public that, under Section 100 of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), selling unwholesome or contaminated food is a criminal offence. The use of non-food-grade additives like plastics in food preparation could lead to prosecution and permanent closure of offending businesses. Consumers are urged to stay vigilant, especially if plantain chips have an odd chemical smell, a plastic-like aftertaste, or remain unusually crisp for extended periods. The FDA encouraged the public to report any suspicious food preparation practices they observe. The authority also assured the public that the results of ongoing laboratory tests on plantain chips will be released when investigations are complete, reinforcing its commitment to consumer safety and public health. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Forgotten Treasure of the Shea Fruit: Unlocking the Nutritional and Economic Potential of Shea Pulp
The fruit of the shea tree, scientifically known as Vitellaria paradoxa, has long been part of the natural diet of many communities across the savanna regions of West Africa. Although the shea nut is globally recognized for the butter extracted from it—an ingredient widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food industries—the fruit itself remains one of the most underutilized resources of the tree. Yet, the pulp surrounding the nut is both delicious and highly nutritious, and for generations it has provided seasonal nourishment for people across the Sahel and northern Ghana. The shea fruit resembles a large plum or a small avocado, with a soft, edible pulp covering the nut. This pulp has a distinctive sweet taste often described as slightly caramel-like, and its smooth texture is comparable to that of an avocado. In many rural communities, the fruit is commonly eaten fresh when it ripens during the shea harvesting season. Children and adults alike enjoy the fruit as a natural snack while collecting the nuts for processing into shea butter. Beyond its pleasant taste, the pulp of the shea fruit is exceptionally nutritious. Scientific studies have shown that it contains more than three times the amount of vitamin C found in oranges. This high vitamin content makes it a powerful natural antioxidant that supports the immune system and contributes to overall health. In addition to vitamin C, the pulp is rich in carbohydrates, providing an important source of energy for communities engaged in agricultural activities. It also contains proteins and essential minerals such as calcium and potassium, which play important roles in maintaining strong bones, supporting muscle function, and sustaining general well-being. The importance of the shea fruit becomes particularly evident during the early farming season, often referred to in many rural communities as the “hungry season.” This is the period when stored grains from the previous harvest begin to run low while farmers are preparing their land for planting. During this time, the shea fruit ripens and becomes a valuable natural source of nourishment. The sugars in the pulp provide quick energy for farmers carrying out the physically demanding work of clearing and preparing fields. Research conducted on dried samples of shea fruit pulp collected from countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, northern Cameroon, and Uganda has confirmed the fruit’s nutritional value. Analytical studies measuring total soluble solids, protein content, and mineral composition reveal that the pulp is rich in sugars, proteins, calcium, and potassium. These nutrients are particularly valuable in savanna environments where food diversity may be limited during certain seasons of the year. Traditionally, the pulp is eaten fresh, but its potential extends far beyond this simple form of consumption. With appropriate processing and innovation, the pulp can be transformed into a wide range of food products. For instance, the pulp can be processed into fruit juice, producing a refreshing beverage that is rich in carbohydrates, vitamin C, and essential minerals. Such juice could serve both as a nutritious local drink and as a commercial product for broader markets. The pulp can also be used to produce jams and jellies. When processed into spreads, the fruit retains its natural sweetness while providing valuable nutrients. These products could potentially become popular local delicacies and even attract international consumers interested in natural and indigenous foods. Another promising possibility is the production of shea fruit wine. Through fermentation, the natural sugars present in the pulp can be converted into alcoholic beverages with unique regional flavors. In addition, the pulp can be processed into fruit leather, a dried fruit product similar to natural fruit snacks. Drying the pulp allows it to be preserved for longer periods, making it available even after the harvesting season has ended. Shea pulp can also be incorporated into baked goods such as cakes, muffins, and pastries. Its smooth texture and natural sweetness make it a suitable ingredient for baking, much like banana or apple puree. Similarly, dried pulp can be used to produce snacks and confectionery, offering nutritious alternatives to many highly processed foods. Even beyond human consumption, the pulp has additional uses. It can be used as a supplement in poultry feed, helping to reduce waste while contributing to sustainable livestock production. Studies examining indigenous knowledge of the shea tree also reveal interesting perspectives within savanna communities. In many cases, men tend to emphasize the taste and quality of the fruit pulp, while women often focus more on the butter yield of the nut. This difference reflects the traditional roles played in shea harvesting and processing, where women are primarily responsible for transforming the nuts into shea butter, an important source of income and cooking oil for households. Despite the growing international interest in shea butter production, the nutritional importance of the fruit pulp itself often receives little attention in development programs. Recognizing the value of the pulp could open new opportunities for food innovation, rural entrepreneurship, and improved nutrition across shea-producing regions. One of the advocates calling attention to the untapped potential of the shea fruit is Chef Abiro. According to him, the shea fruit is one of the most underappreciated ingredients in Northern Ghanaian cuisine. While the shea nut has achieved global fame because of the butter extracted from it, the fruit itself remains largely overlooked in modern culinary practice. Chef Abiro believes that with creativity and innovation, the shea fruit could become a key ingredient in new indigenous dishes that celebrate the culinary heritage of northern Ghana. Chef Abiro, born Abiro Wisdom Seidu Napaana on May 23, 1998, in Zuarungu in the Upper East Region of Ghana, is a renowned chef, restaurateur, culinary advocate, television personality, and writer. Raised in Bawku, he developed a passion for cooking from an early age in a household that encouraged gender equality in domestic responsibilities. This environment allowed him to participate in cooking activities and gradually refine his culinary skills. His formal education in the culinary field began at Bolgatanga Senior High School, where he studied Home Economics. He later pursued a diploma in
Fuel Shortages Hit Service Stations as Technical Glitch Disrupts Petroleum Supply Chain
Several Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) in Ghana are grappling with fuel shortages at their service stations, citing operational challenges at the ports. Both state-owned GOIL PLC and private operator Star Oil Ghana have linked the disruptions to a technical outage of the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), a critical digital platform used to process tax payments and facilitate the lifting of petroleum products from depots. In separate statements, the companies reported that the ICUMS outage, which began on Thursday, has thrown the national petroleum supply chain into disarray. GOIL PLC announced that the technical difficulties have prevented the company from lifting products for distribution, causing some of its stations across the country to experience temporary shortages. Edward Abambire Bawa, Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of GOIL, expressed regret over the inconvenience and assured customers that management is working with relevant authorities to restore normal fuel supply as soon as possible. Star Oil Ghana echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that the shortages are not a result of hoarding in anticipation of a price hike. The company explained that the problem was exacerbated by a public holiday on Friday, which delayed planned petroleum lifting operations for Saturday. “Unfortunately, the GRA ICUMS system was down throughout the day, preventing all OMCs from processing the necessary documentation to load products,” Star Oil stated. As of Monday, March 9, 2026, the technical challenges persist, affecting the entire downstream petroleum industry. Star Oil noted that its service stations, which typically sell high volumes relative to tank capacity, have been particularly affected by the disruption. The company assured customers that it is monitoring the situation closely and will resume restocking as soon as the system is restored. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghanaian Man Pleads Guilty in $100 Million U.S. Online Fraud Scheme
In a dramatic courtroom moment in New York, 40-year-old Ghanaian national Derrick Van Yeboah admitted to his role in a sweeping online fraud operation that stole over $100 million from victims in the United States. The guilty plea, entered before Judge Arun Subramanian at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, marks a significant development in the fight against international cybercrime. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced Van Yeboah’s plea on Friday, March 6, revealing the extent of his involvement in a sophisticated network that orchestrated romance scams and business email compromise attacks. The announcement was made by Jay Clayton, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, who underscored the devastating impact on victims, many of whom were elderly men and women searching for companionship online. “Derrick Van Yeboah pled guilty today to a massive criminal scheme targeting elderly men and women in online romance scams,” Clayton stated. “Many New Yorkers search for companionship online, and no one deserves to have their vulnerability met with fraud and theft. Van Yeboah cruelly exploited those vulnerabilities for over $10 million in illicit profit.” According to court documents, Van Yeboah was part of a Ghana-based criminal organisation that preyed on individuals and companies across the United States. Victims were lured into fake romantic relationships online, with conspirators using fictitious identities to gain trust before persuading targets to send money or help launder illicit funds. The group also deceived businesses through business email compromise, tricking them into transferring funds to accounts controlled by the network. Authorities say the criminal enterprise stole and laundered more than $100 million, with much of the proceeds ending up in West Africa. Van Yeboah himself was responsible for over $10 million in losses, personally carrying out several romance scams by impersonating fake partners during online communications. Under U.S. law, conspiracy to commit wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Van Yeboah has agreed to pay restitution and forfeiture totaling $10,149,429.17. His sentencing is scheduled for June 3, 2026. Jay Clayton praised the efforts of the FBI and acknowledged the support of authorities in Ghana and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs in bringing the case to justice. As the legal process moves forward, the case stands as a stark warning against the dangers of online scams and the international reach of cybercriminal networks. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ibrahim Mahama Converts Private Jet into Free Emergency Air Ambulance for Ghanaians
Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama has taken a bold step in philanthropy, announcing that his former private jet will now operate as a free emergency air ambulance for Ghanaians facing urgent medical crises. “Any Ghanaian with a medical emergency who needs to be flown out for treatment can use the jet free of charge. I have dedicated it to the nation to support both local and international medical emergencies involving Ghanaians,” Mahama shared, highlighting his commitment to supporting critical healthcare needs. The newly repurposed jet is set to provide rapid transport for patients requiring specialized treatment, whether within Ghana or abroad. Health officials and community observers have applauded the initiative, pointing out that it could be a game-changer for patients in life-threatening situations, particularly those living in remote or underserved regions where timely access to advanced care can be a challenge. This act of generosity adds to Ibrahim Mahama’s growing legacy of championing projects aimed at improving the welfare and health outcomes of Ghanaians. As the air ambulance prepares for its first missions, many see it as a beacon of hope for families facing medical emergencies across the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ashanti Regional Fire Command Reports Slight Drop in Fire Outbreaks as New Safety Initiative Launched
Between January and February this year, the Ashanti Regional Fire Command recorded 208 fire outbreaks, a slight reduction from the 237 incidents reported during the same period in 2025. The update was shared by ACFO1 Peter Tetteh, Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service, at the launch of an inter-market fire safety quiz in Kumasi on Tuesday, March 3. Commander Tetteh explained to journalists that the first quarter of the year typically marks the peak season for fire incidents, especially in the region’s bustling markets. While the dip in reported cases offers a small measure of relief, he cautioned that the risk of market fires remains high and called for continued vigilance. The newly launched inter-market quiz aims to arm traders with practical knowledge on fire prevention and emergency response. “Market fires cause a lot of devastation. The aim is to get traders involved in fire prevention so that they can own the market, understand what causes fires, and prevent them,” Tetteh noted, expressing satisfaction with the enthusiastic response from participants. He also issued a stern warning to traders handling combustible and explosive materials, urging them to relocate these goods outside market premises to safeguard the public from potential disasters. Supporting the initiative, Chairman Ernest Afayam, Managing Director of Kejetia Market, stressed the importance of fire safety education given the market’s structure and history of fire outbreaks. He recalled a recent incident swiftly contained by fire officers, as well as the 2023 blaze ignited by hazardous chemicals, which led to displacement and losses for many traders. Chairman Afayam praised the fire safety quiz as a proactive measure, stating, “It is a positive programme. The arrangement is a form of creating awareness and prevention as far as fire safety is concerned. I believe it is something worth embarking on.” With fire risks still looming, the region’s fire authorities and market leaders are working hand-in-hand to reduce hazards and safeguard livelihoods through education and collective action. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN Group’s Ebenezer Asante Challenges African Graduates To Become Digital Innovators And Change-Makers For The Continent’s Growth
Mr. Ebenezer Asante, Senior Vice President of MTN Group, called for stronger alliances between academia, government, and industry to foster a generation of African innovators prepared to shape the continent’s technological future. He made this address at the 2025 graduation ceremony of Accra Technical University (ATU), themed “Emerging Technologies: How Prepared is the ATU Graduate?” During his speech, Mr. Asante urged young African graduates to take the initiative in shaping the continent’s technological destiny by becoming creators and innovators rather than mere consumers of digital technology. He stated, “The curious, tech-savvy graduate of the 21st century will not only use technology but will also shape it with foresight and a sense of shared human purpose.” Referring to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) 2023 Report, Mr. Asante noted that Africa’s share of global technology patent filings has decreased from 4.4% a decade ago to 3.2% in 2023, despite the continent accounting for over 18% of the world’s population. This statistic highlights the urgent need for improved collaboration among universities, private sector players, investors, and policymakers to boost research, invention, and the industrial application of technology on the continent. “If we are serious about using technology to address Africa’s complex developmental challenges, we must become part of the technology supply chain and the global ecosystem of invention,” he asserted. Drawing inspiration from futurists Alvin Toffler and Professor Akosua Ampofo, Mr. Asante highlighted that Africa’s competitiveness in the digital age will rely on its youth’s ability to keep learning, unlearning, and relearning. He explained that the most successful graduates will be those who combine technical skills with creativity, empathy, and teamwork, traits that foster innovation in the 21st century. He encouraged the ATU graduates to embrace a growth mindset, emphasizing that their success will rely more on their psychological and behavioural flexibility than on their academic qualifications. “Do not fear the unknown. Be clear about what you possess that can make a difference and keep applying yourself until you achieve a breakthrough,” he advised. “Stubborn perseverance is what the world is waiting for from you.” Mr. Asante also emphasized how technology can tackle Africa’s real-world challenges across various sectors, including sanitation, healthcare, agriculture, education, and energy. He highlighted the inspiring work of The Buz Stop Boys, a youth-led initiative addressing urban sanitation in Ghana, as an example of how civic-minded innovation can make a difference. He challenged graduates to use their technical training to develop IoT-enabled waste management systems, smart data-driven city solutions, and even robotics or drone technologies to optimize waste collection and improve urban hygiene. Reflecting on the changing nature of employment, Asante noted that technology has enabled young people to work globally without relocating. He encouraged graduates to seize opportunities in freelancing, digital entrepreneurship, and hybrid work, leveraging platforms powered by AI, cloud computing, and digital payment systems such as Mobile Money (MoMo). In closing, Mr. Asante called on the graduates to actively contribute to advancing Ghana’s national digitalization agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, both of which envision an integrated and prosperous Africa driven by innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com