The clarification follows public discussions over the Customs treatment of mobile phones brought into the country by passengers.

In a press release issued on September 3, 2026, the GRA said the key consideration is whether the phones are genuinely for personal use or are being imported for another person, sale, distribution or other commercial purposes.

The Authority explained that Customs officers assess each case based on its circumstances. Factors considered may include the quantity and nature of the devices, whether they are already in use, whether they are new and commercially packaged, the number of similar items being carried and indications that the goods may be intended for sale or distribution.

The GRA said the reference to a specific number of phones was only intended to illustrate situations where Customs officers may need to make further enquiries.

“The number of phones carried does not, on its own, determine whether duty is payable,” the Authority stated.

It said a traveller could legitimately carry more than one phone for personal reasons, including having a work device or a replacement handset, without the phones necessarily being classified as commercial imports.

However, where a passenger carries several new or similarly packaged devices, particularly on behalf of other people, Customs may assess whether the items qualify as personal effects or should be treated as imports.

The GRA noted that Ghana’s Customs laws distinguish between personal effects and goods imported for sale, supply or other commercial purposes.

Where goods are determined to be commercial imports and are subject to duty, the applicable taxes and duties will be assessed in accordance with Customs laws and procedures.

The Authority advised travellers carrying goods genuinely intended for personal use to use the green channel. Where the quantity or nature of the goods goes beyond personal effects, passengers are encouraged to use the red channel to declare the items and pay any applicable duties.

Travellers who are uncertain about the status of items they are carrying have also been advised to declare them and seek guidance from Customs officers at the point of entry.

The GRA said the purpose of Customs controls is not to inconvenience legitimate travellers, including Ghanaians returning home with personal belongings or reasonable gifts for family members.

It said the objective is to facilitate legitimate travel while ensuring that goods imported for commercial purposes are properly declared and treated in accordance with the law.

The Authority added that the approach is consistent with Ghana’s Customs framework and passenger concessions provided under the Exemptions Act, 2022 (Act 1083).

The GRA reaffirmed its commitment to applying Customs procedures fairly, consistently and professionally while providing clearer information to help travellers understand their rights and obligations.

Read the statement below:

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The historic feat came after a commanding performance in the semi-final, where Accra Academy finished top of a three-school contest with 54 points.

Bright SHS followed with 44 points, while Achimota School ended the contest on 43 points.

Accra Academy maintained its lead from the opening round through to the final round, holding off a strong challenge from the two schools to secure its place in the final.

The qualification ends years of disappointment for the school, which had repeatedly struggled to progress beyond the later stages of the competition.

In previous editions, Accra Academy suffered eliminations at the one-eighth and quarter-final stages, with the school unable to break into the final until this year.

The school’s recent struggles included notable semi-final disappointments, particularly in 2016 and 2023, when it was eliminated by long-time NSMQ powerhouse PRESEC-Legon, in fiercely contested contests.

This year’s breakthrough now gives Accra Academy its first opportunity to compete for the NSMQ trophy.

The school, however, faces a double threat in the grand finale; the most decorated 8-time champions PRESEC-Legon, and 2-time champions St Augustine’s College.

Accra Academy, meanwhile, will be seeking a maiden title in what promises to be a historic final for the school.

The 2026 NSMQ Grand Finale is scheduled for September 10 at the University of Ghana, where the three schools will battle for the coveted championship.

Mr Buah made the disclosure on Thursday after joining the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and Navy Special Forces on a 16-kilometre patrol of the river, from Dominase to Gwira Banso in the Western Region.

The patrol came almost exactly a year after his first inspection of the river in September 2025, when illegal mining was still visibly under way along its banks. This time, he said, the Changfan machines and operators once seen along the stretch were gone.

“It clearly shows that we are turning the corner. We are using more intelligence-led operations. We are being very intentional about these operations, and the results are showing,” he said.

Mr Buah addressed concerns that pollution of the Ankobra was worsening, saying what he observed on the patrol did not support that view. He added, however, that the operations needed to continue if the river was to fully recover and the gains made were to hold.

Director of Operations at NAIMOS, Colonel K.S. Appiah, said the Secretariat had stepped up activity across the Western Region in recent months.

“For the past two months, my 130-man team has conducted special operations across six districts of the Western Region, with 19 operations conducted in August alone. Eleven of these operations were on the Ankobra River. We successfully cleared galamsey operators, destroyed several pieces of mining equipment and arrested several operators,” he said.

The partnership will focus on research and the development of medicinal and industrial uses of low-THC cannabis, commonly known as hemp, while ensuring that cultivation remains within Ghana’s legal requirements.

Director-General of NACOC, Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, said the Commission would enforce the rules governing the cultivation and use of cannabis within the approved THC limit.

He said Ghana could benefit economically and industrially from the emerging sector if its development was supported by scientific evidence and strong oversight.

Major General Mantey made the remarks during a meeting between NACOC and CSIR to discuss areas of collaboration. He said NACOC would work with CSIR to strengthen testing and traceability along the cannabis value chain, from the selection of planting materials to processing and end use.

Director of the CSIR-Institute of Industrial Research, Dr Francis Boateng Agyenim, said the regulated hemp sector could create opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing and medicine.

He said CSIR’s research had shown potential for hemp cultivation in Ghana and that some varieties could produce high-quality fibre for industrial applications.

According to Dr Agyeinim, hemp fibre could be explored for products such as alternative plastic packaging materials and sanitary products.

The collaboration will include the establishment of model greenhouse farms to demonstrate suitable cultivation methods. NACOC and CSIR will also assess seedlings and conduct soil tests to identify areas best suited for growing low-THC cannabis.

The institutions will further undertake laboratory research into the properties and potential uses of hemp and provide technical support to farmers and other stakeholders entering the sector.

The partnership is expected to provide scientific and technical guidance for Ghana’s regulated cannabis industry while helping to prevent the diversion of legally cultivated cannabis into the illicit market.

The intelligence-led operation was conducted by the Upper East Regional Police Command in collaboration with the Military as part of efforts to identify and apprehend persons linked to recent firearm-related offences in the district.

One of the suspects, identified as 32-year-old Isaka Sabani, alias “Culture”, sustained gunshot wounds during the operation and later died.

According to the police, the security team retrieved an AK-47 assault rifle loaded with 28 rounds of ammunition from the suspect.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Sabani was wanted in connection with a case of attempted murder and unlawful discharge of firearms reported at the Bawku Police Station on August 28, 2026.

Police also suspect him of involvement in shooting incidents recorded at Agenda 111, Aniisi and Gumyoko in the Binduri District on August 29, 30 and 31 respectively.

The Upper East Regional Police Command said it would continue working with the Military and other security agencies to identify and apprehend other persons suspected to be involved in the incidents.

The Command has also assured residents of its commitment to maintaining security, law and order in the region.

The fire reportedly started at the family residence before spreading rapidly through the house, destroying household items, personal belongings, and other valuables.

Some of the affected residents have expressed concern about the circumstances surrounding the incident, attributing the fire to a power outage in the area.

One of the victims, Theresa Frimpomaa, a mother of four, sustained injuries in the incident and is currently receiving medical attention.

Personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service have since brought the fire under control.

Investigations are underway to determine the actual cause of the fire and assess the extent of damage.

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Residents are said to have been alerted by a strong stench from the area, prompting some of them to trace the source to the gutter where the body was discovered.

The body was reportedly in an advanced state of decomposition, suggesting that it may have been there for some time before it was found.

The discovery was subsequently reported to the police, who arrived at the scene to retrieve the body and begin investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death.

The area was also fumigated following the removal of the body.

Police have started investigations to establish the identity of the deceased and determine circumstances leading to her unfortunate demise.

Meanwhile, residents have appealed for streetlights to prevent further crimes.

Speaking to Adom News, the Director of Corporate Strategy at GRIDCo, Samuel Kwaw Acquah, said the exercise will be carried out across the country and is part of the company’s mandate to protect its transmission infrastructure and public safety.

“This is not an Accra exercise. It is a nationwide exercise, and it has nothing to do with government,” he said.

Mr Acquah explained that GRIDCo has been conducting public education campaigns to sensitise communities located around transmission pylons about the dangers associated with living or operating businesses within power transmission corridors.

He stressed that individuals are not permitted to reside, trade or construct structures beneath or too close to high-voltage transmission lines because of the potential risks to life and property.

According to him, the planned exercise is intended to remove encroachments and ensure the safety and reliability of Ghana’s national electricity transmission network.

He therefore urged residents occupying areas identified as unsafe to comply with the directives and relocate to safer locations.

However, some residents whose properties have been marked for demolition have expressed concern about the exercise.

The affected residents said they were particularly worried about the 30-day notice given to them, arguing that the period was too short for them to make alternative arrangements.

Some of the residents who spoke to Adom News appealed for more time and consideration before the demolition exercise is carried out.

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Green Communities Initiative launched at Godokpe

2026 GJA Awards: Female Journalist of the Year category removed

The initiative, organised under the theme “Building Resilient and Sustainable Communities Through Green Economy Development,” seeks to involve communities directly in environmental protection while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Speaking to Adom News, the National Director of the Department of Community Development, Stephen Blay, said Godokpe is the second community to host the initiative after its launch in Koforidua.

He explained that the community was selected because of its existing commitment to environmental conservation, particularly its tree-planting activities.

Mr Blay said the programme would focus on community-based tree planting, environmental education and sustainable livelihood development. It will also draw on the participation of traditional authorities, young people, local communities and decentralised governance structures.

He said the broader objective is to create climate-resilient and environmentally conscious communities while empowering residents economically.

According to him, one community in each district across Ghana will be selected to participate in the tree-planting component of the programme.

Mr Blay noted that communities across the country are increasingly experiencing the effects of climate change, including flooding, drought, soil erosion, declining agricultural productivity and loss of vegetation due to activities such as illegal logging and charcoal production.

He added that rural-urban migration and limited economic opportunities have further increased the vulnerability of some communities, making an integrated approach to environmental restoration and economic empowerment necessary.

The National Director urged residents of Godokpe to take ownership of the initiative and help protect the trees planted to ensure the programme achieves its long-term objectives.

He also disclosed that the department would continue to provide skills training and start-up support to young people as part of efforts to promote economic independence.

Speaking on behalf of the elders and people of Godokpe, Togbe William Ahotor expressed gratitude to the Department of Community Development for choosing the community for the launch.

He assured the department that the community would protect and nurture the trees planted under the initiative.

Togbe Ahotor, however, appealed for urgent attention to the poor condition of the road linking the community, saying it continues to create difficulties for residents.

He urged Mr Blay to engage the appropriate authorities to address the road challenge.

In response, Mr Blay assured the community that he would forward the concern to the relevant authorities for consideration and possible action.

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AMA announces Post-Homowo clean-up for September National Sanitation Day

Pharmacy technicians raise alarm over staff shortages, appeal for more recruitment

GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor announced the decision at a news conference on Thursday, September 3, 2026, as part of a review of the awards categories.

According to Mr Dwumfuor, the decision was influenced by the performance of female journalists in previous editions of the awards, with women emerging as winners of the overall Journalist of the Year award on several occasions.

He explained that, in the Association’s view, this had placed female journalists in an advantageous position compared with their male counterparts, prompting the decision to remove the separate category and allow journalists of both genders to compete on the same grounds.

The broader review of the GJA Media Awards has also seen the introduction of two new categories.

The new categories are the Bank of Ghana Governor’s Economic and Financial Story of the Year (GEFSY) and Best Digital and New Media Platform.

The GJA said the new categories were introduced to reflect developments in the media industry and recognise excellence in economic and financial reporting as well as innovation in digital and new media.

Mr Dwumfuor said the changes followed recommendations, suggestions and inputs from members of the Association after journalists were invited to contribute ideas towards improving the awards.

He said the GJA appreciated the contributions received and believes the revised categories would make the awards more relevant and responsive to the changing dynamics of the media industry.

The exercise is scheduled for Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and will focus on restoring cleanliness across major roads, markets, lorry parks, public spaces and communities within the metropolis.

According to the AMA, the exercise will involve the clearing and weeding of road medians, removal of refuse, sweeping of public spaces, clearing of curbs and general cleaning of major roads and business districts.

The Assembly said particular attention would be given to the Graphic Road and the section of the J.J. Rawlings Avenue from Kwame Nkrumah Circle through Avenor and Caprice to Abeka Junction, alongside other areas identified as requiring urgent sanitation attention.

To ensure effective participation, the AMA said all shops, stalls, tabletop businesses and other trading activities are expected to remain closed during the exercise.

The Assembly is urging residents, businesses and other stakeholders to participate fully in the clean-up, describing it as part of broader efforts to improve environmental sanitation, protect public health and enhance the appearance of the capital.

The exercise is also expected to support safer road corridors and strengthen collective responsibility among residents and businesses for maintaining a clean Accra.

President of the Pharmacy Technicians Association of Ghana (PTAG), Michael Gyamprah, said the country currently has only about 1,200 pharmacy technicians, a situation he described as inadequate to meet the growing demand for pharmaceutical care.

According to him, the shortage has resulted in some pharmacy departments operating with fewer personnel than required, forcing existing staff to work longer hours with limited opportunities for breaks.

He appealed to the government and relevant authorities to recruit additional pharmacy technicians to ease the pressure on existing personnel and improve patient care.

Mr Gyamprah also called for better working conditions and measures to retain experienced technicians within the health sector.

He made the appeal at the 2026 Annual General Conference of the Pharmacy Technicians Association of Ghana held in Sunyani in the Bono Region.

The conference was held under the theme: “The Role of Pharmacy Technicians in Advancing SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.”

Meanwhile, the Bono Regional Director of Health, Dr Abdulai Bukari, urged pharmacy technicians to intensify education for patients on the safe use of medicines.

He encouraged them to use the World Health Organisation’s Five Moments for Medication Safety as a guide when educating patients.

Dr Bukari also urged pharmacy technicians to accept postings to rural and underserved communities to help improve access to healthcare.

He further called on them to maintain high standards of professionalism, ethical conduct and discipline in the performance of their duties.

The thematic speaker, Etse Nkukpornu, on his part, urged managers of health facilities to embrace technology in the administration and management of healthcare institutions.

He said the use of technology could improve transparency and accountability while helping to minimise corruption.

Mr Nkukpornu also called for stronger systems to monitor the procurement and distribution of medicines and ensure that pharmaceutical products are obtained only from legitimate and approved suppliers.

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The Association is calling on the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to ensure a thorough and expeditious investigation into the incident and sanction anyone found culpable.

GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwomfour made the call at a press conference, where he stressed the need to protect journalists in the line of duty.

The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, July 11, when the journalist was covering developments following the New Patriotic Party (NPP) constituency executive elections in the area.

According to Mr Dwomfour, the GJA has photographic evidence that could help identify the individuals allegedly involved in the attack.

He said the Association is ready to make the images available to the appropriate authorities and the media to assist investigations.

However, the GJA has decided not to release the evidence immediately, allowing the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service to complete their respective investigations.

Mr Dwomfour emphasised that journalists must be able to perform their duties without fear, intimidation or physical assault, particularly when reporting matters of public interest.

He therefore urged security agencies to ensure that the rights and safety of journalists are respected while carrying out their professional responsibilities.

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GJA to conduct nationwide assessment of galamsey fight

In a joint statement dated September 3, 2026, the two transport organisations said the request was made in accordance with the Administrative Instrument governing the review of public transport fares.

According to the groups, the process forms part of the established consultative framework for determining and reviewing fares, taking into consideration the various costs associated with the operation of commercial road transport services.

The leadership said discussions with the Ministry of Transport are expected to commence soon, after which the outcome of the consultations will be communicated to the public.

The GPRTU and GRTCC urged drivers, station masters, transport owners and the general public to remain calm and await the conclusion of the process.

They stressed that any adjustment to public transport fares would be communicated after the necessary consultations with the Ministry of Transport.

Read the statement below:

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The incident occurred near Awutu Bosom-Abena in the Awutu Senya West District, where the deceased was reportedly killed before his body and motorbike were set ablaze.

A police source said the Awutu Bereku District Police Command arrested the two suspects following the incident.

The circumstances surrounding the alleged killing, including what may have triggered it, remain unclear.

The body has since been conveyed by the Awutu Bereku District Police Command to the Police Hospital Mortuary for preservation and further examination.

Police are expected to continue investigations to establish the circumstances of the death and the roles of the suspects in the incident.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday news, he argued that available data supports the view that some state institutions are performing better than they did under the previous administration.

According to him, the key question is whether the Chief Justice breached any law or stated anything untrue.

“Is it not the truth that some of these state institutions are performing better? Come on, just look at the data. What are you talking about? I mean, the data speaks for itself. It is a fact. Did he lie? I mean, did he lie?” he asked.

His comments follows criticisms of the Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, who during a visit to the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) on Wednesday, September 2, praised the performance of the MIIF and other public institutions under the current administration, saying some of the developments he has witnessed have left him wondering what Ghana was doing over the past eight years.

Mr Cudjoe said there was nothing inherently wrong with the Chief Justice commenting on public matters during an official engagement.

He explained that the Chief Justice was responding to a presentation on the performance of state institutions and was therefore naturally expected to offer his observations.

“Everybody has an opinion,” he said. “Nobody is suggesting to the Chief Justice that he can’t speak on any public matter.”

Mr Cudjoe maintained that the Chief Justice was presented with information comparing the performance of state institutions under previous and current administrations before making his comments.

He therefore disagreed with criticism that the remarks compromised the Judiciary’s neutrality.

“I don’t see anything wrong with it. I don’t see why people are thinking that it is political,” he said.

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• It was free speech; he spoke as a citizen – Eric Adjei defends CJ’s…

The victory means Augusco will make a third consecutive appearance in the NSMQ final since 2024, continuing an extraordinary run of consistency at the national level.

The contest at the Main Auditorium of the University of Cape Coast initially promised a tight three-way battle. After Round One, St. Augustine’s and Prempeh College were tied on 16 points, with Pope John just a point behind on 15.

But Round Two began to reshape the contest. St. Augustine’s edged ahead with 26 points, while Prempeh followed closely on 25. Pope John, however, failed to add to their Round One score and remained on 15 points.

Then came the Problem of the Day, and this was where Augusco began to pull away.

St. Augustine’s College produced an exceptional performance in the Problem of the Day, scoring nine points from the ten available. Prempeh managed 5/10, while Pope John could only muster 3/10.

That lifted St. Augustine’s to 35 points, five clear of Prempeh on 30 and well ahead of Pope John on 18.

Round Four (True or False) offered Prempeh a chance to claw their way back, but Augusco remained firmly in control. St. Augustine’s added 13 points to reach 48, while Prempeh moved to 37 and Pope John to 28.

By the final round, the outcome was increasingly clear. St. Augustine’s eventually finished on 52 points, with Prempeh College ending on 47 and Pope John on 28.

The five-point winning margin over Prempeh capped a performance in which Augusco gradually transformed a tightly contested opening into a contest they controlled.

For Prempeh, the defeat ends their campaign despite a strong challenge from the five-time champions, who stayed within touching distance of Augusco for much of the contest.

For Pope John, the semifinal proved much more difficult. After starting just one point behind the leaders in Round One, they struggled to maintain the pace and eventually finished 24 points behind the winners.

The 2026 National Science and Maths Quiz is produced by Primetime Limited and sponsored by the Ghana Education Service with support from GOIL PLC, Prudential Life Insurance Ghana, Pepsodent, Cowbell, Trustur AI and Jupay Money Transfer.

The Broadcast on JoyNews is sponsored by Vitamilk, Entrance University of Health Sciences, Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, and NASCO.

Broadcast Partners are Frutelli, Excellence Publications and Stationery, Didi Shito, Nataraj, Virtual Security Africa, Lef Signature Limited, Sintex Tank, Door Master, New Crystal Hospital, Palm University College, Ayuda, Prospectus Ghana Ltd, Family Health University, Myst Water.

In a notice to stakeholders dated September 3, 2026, the Secretariat said the industrial action had affected the distribution and supply of premix fuel.

The Secretariat said efforts were underway to resolve the situation and expressed optimism that the strike would be called off soon.

“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused,” the Secretariat said, while assuring stakeholders of its commitment to maintaining an adequate and reliable supply of premix fuel.

The disruption comes at a time when premix fuel remains essential to Ghana’s artisanal fishing sector, with shortages potentially affecting fishing activities and livelihoods in coastal communities.

The Secretariat urged stakeholders to remain patient as engagements to resolve the industrial action continue.

Read the statement below:

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According to a press release from the Ghana Police Service, the operation was carried out by the Regional Police Intelligence Directorate in collaboration with the national headquarters in Accra.

Acting on actionable intelligence, officers intercepted the vehicle, registered UE 819-26, at around 4:00 p.m. as it traveled from Nalerigu towards Kumasi.

The driver, identified as Fusini Danaa, and his mate were taken into custody after a search of the truck, which was ostensibly transporting maize. The search uncovered 321 boxes of foreign cigarettes, including 40 boxes of Royals, 175 boxes of Oris, and 106 boxes of Gold Seal, along with 23 bags of soya beans, 39 bags of groundnut husks, and 21 bags of millet. Significantly, officers also discovered 100 containers of a substance suspected to be sodium cyanide.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the consignment was handed to the driver by an individual at Bentri, near Nalerigu, for delivery to a customer in Kumasi.

The operation was supported by the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOB), the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (CEPS), and Defence Intelligence (DI).

Given that the suspected sodium cyanide was transported alongside food items, officials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) have taken samples for laboratory analysis due to potential public health risks.

The vehicle and all seized items have been secured, and police investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the consignment.

The Bono East Regional Command praised the cooperation among the agencies involved and reaffirmed its commitment to fighting crime and ensuring public safety.

Read the statement below:

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GNACOPS proposes 85 private SHSs to absorb 54,985 candidates without placement

The Coordinator of the CSSPS, Sherif Sulemana, disclosed that Aburi Girls’ received 8,225 applications for approximately 800 vacancies, highlighting the intense competition for admission to some of Ghana’s most sought-after senior high schools.

Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show (SMS) on Wednesday, September 2, Mr Sulemana said the situation was particularly competitive among candidates with strong academic results.

According to him, about 3,000 of the 8,225 applicants to Aburi Girls’ obtained aggregates between six and 12, all competing for a share of the approximately 800 available places.

“This year, for Aburi Girls’, the available space as declared is about 800. Now, the candidates who have chosen to be in selected Aburi Girls’ is about 8,225.

“And out of that selection, the available space is 800. Out of that, you have candidates getting aggregate from six to 12, being about 3,000, to be in Aburi Girls,” he said.

The figures mean thousands of candidates who selected the school as their preferred choice will have to compete for placement in other schools when the 2026 CSSPS results are released on Friday, September 4.

Mr Sulemana explained that placement under the CSSPS was not based solely on candidates’ aggregate scores.

He said candidates were first ranked nationally from the best aggregate to the weakest, while candidates competing for the same school, programme and residential status with identical aggregates were separated using their raw examination scores.

Programme choices and residential preferences are then matched against the vacancies available in the various schools.

Mr Sulemana explained that in some instances, a candidate with what may appear to be a weaker aggregate could secure placement ahead of another candidate based on higher raw scores used in breaking a tie.

He therefore urged candidates and parents not to base their placement expectations solely on aggregate scores.

“Those are the realities within which we operate, and we want the general public to understand,” he said.

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Agbodza orders contractor back to site to complete Wa-Bulenga Road

The inspection formed part of the Ministry’s efforts to ensure that all traffic management and operational measures are in place before the road closure, which will facilitate the construction of critical drainage infrastructure under the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) Project.

During the inspection tour, Mr. Ibrahim visited Pamprom Junction and other sections of the project corridor to assess the contractor’s readiness ahead of the implementation of the Traffic Management Plan (TMP).

Addressing the contractor and officials on site, the Minister directed that effective traffic management measures be put in place to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and minimise disruptions to motorists, residents and businesses within the project area throughout the construction period.

“The safety and convenience of the motoring public must remain a top priority throughout this exercise. We expect the contractor to put in place a robust Traffic Management Plan that will keep traffic moving while these critical drainage works are carried out,” he stated.

The Minister emphasised the need for clearly marked diversion routes, adequate directional signage, proper barricading, and the deployment of traffic management personnel at critical intersections to manage traffic efficiently.

Mr. Ibrahim also instructed the contractor to intensify the ongoing public sensitisation campaign on the Traffic Management Plan to ensure that residents, commuters and the general public are adequately informed about the road closure, the approved diversion routes, and the traffic arrangements before the closure takes effect.

“No one should wake up on Monday and be surprised by the road closure. We must intensify public education through television, radio, online platforms, and community engagement so that every commuter knows the alternative routes and can plan their journey in advance,” the Minister said.

He noted that sustained public education is essential to reducing confusion, easing congestion and ensuring compliance with the approved traffic diversions.

The Minister further urged the contractor to adhere strictly to the project timeline and complete the drainage improvement works within schedule in order to minimise inconvenience to the motoring public.

Recognising the critical role of local authorities in the successful implementation of the Traffic Management Plan, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim directed the Ablekuma Central Municipal Assembly and the Accra Metropolitan Assembly to clear all on-street parking along the designated diversion routes by the close of business on Saturday ahead of Monday’s road closure.

According to the Minister, removing vehicles and other obstructions from the diversion corridors will improve traffic flow and enable the alternative routes to accommodate the expected increase in vehicular movement during the construction period.

The drainage improvement works form part of the Government’s broader flood mitigation interventions under the GARID Project, which seeks to improve stormwater drainage infrastructure and enhance flood resilience within the Odaw Basin in the Greater Accra Region.

The first phase of the project is expected to be completed by the end of November 2026, while the remaining section is scheduled for completion by October 2027.

The Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources has assured the public that it is working closely with the Ghana Police Service, the Department of Urban Roads, the Ghana Highway Authority and the affected Metropolitan and Municipal Assemblies to ensure the effective implementation of the Traffic Management Plan.

Motorists have been advised to follow the approved diversion routes, obey traffic signs and directions from traffic officers, and plan their journeys ahead of the road closure on Monday.

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The streets were filled with excitement as residents, many dressed in the traditional Asante colours, waved flags and cheered to express their joy and pride in the return of the revered monarch.

Security personnel were deployed across the metropolis to manage traffic and ensure a smooth procession, allowing the Asantehene to move freely through the principal streets of Kumasi.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was received at the airport by members of the Kumasi Traditional Council, together with the Kumasi Mayor, Richard Kwasi Ofori Boadi Agyemang, before embarking on his tour through the city.

The Asantehene travelled to the United States for a series of high-profile engagements and important events, which culminated in his participation in the Akwasidae celebration.

The return of the Asantehene has generated excitement among residents, with many describing his return as a moment of pride for the Asante Kingdom.

Some residents who spoke to Adom News expressed their joy and pride at welcoming Otumfuo back home after his engagements in the United States.

The colourful reception has turned parts of Kumasi into a scene of celebration, with residents lining the streets to catch a glimpse of the Asantehene as he makes his way through the city.

Also read:

• Kumasi gears up for Otumfuo’s royal return on September 3

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The order follows growing concerns over the contractor’s prolonged absence from the project, which was awarded in 2024.

Mr Agbodza issued the directive during an inspection of the Wa-Bulenga-Yaala Road, where he expressed dissatisfaction with the progress of work and the condition of some completed sections.

He instructed the contractor to return to site without delay and correct portions of the road that have already developed defects.

The Minister warned that government would not tolerate delays or poor-quality work on projects that have been awarded and funded.

He stressed that the contractor must ensure the road meets the required standards and is completed within the agreed timeframe.

“Tell the contractor to come back to site immediately and remedy all those things. The thing is already failing. It is not rocket science, and you don’t have to be an engineer to know that what he has done will fail in no time, so call him back to site to address the issue immediately,” he said.

“We have no appetite for substandard work,” Mr Agbodza added.

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The training brought together officers from Ekuasi Camp Prison, Sekondi Central Prison and Sekondi Female Prison.

A teacher from the Sekondi School for the Deaf facilitated the programme, introducing participants to the fundamentals of Ghanaian Sign Language and basic conversational skills.

The officers took part in practical sessions, learning and demonstrating various signs and conversational expressions to strengthen their ability to communicate effectively with people with hearing impairments.

The facilitator highlighted the importance of sign language in fostering effective communication and inclusivity, and indicated that certificates would be presented to participants at the end of the programme.

Participants said the training had equipped them with practical skills that would help them better communicate with inmates and other persons with hearing impairments encountered in the course of their duties.

This is aimed at building a more inclusive and responsive correctional environment, where communication barriers do not prevent persons with disabilities from accessing appropriate services and support.

They had earlier been arrested and brought before the court on August 20, 2026, where the judge ordered that they be remanded in police custody for investigations.

The accused persons, Adams Nyaaba Iddrisu, 72, and Elvis Adongo, 38, appeared again before the Bolgatanga Circuit Court on Wednesday, September 2, on a charge contrary to Section 101 of the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) for allegedly having sexual intercourse with the 14-year-old girl.

The court, presided over by His Honour Sumaila Mbache Ahmadu, did not take their pleas.  

According to the prosecution’s brief facts, the complainant is Celestina Atuora, the Assistant Headmistress in charge of Domestic Affairs at BOGISS, while the alleged victim, name withheld, is a 14-year-old first-year student of the school and described as a special child.

The prosecution says the student lives with her mother in a suburb of Bolgatanga but was a boarding student at the school.

Investigations allegedly established that between June and July 2026, the student often charged her tablet after evening prep at the school security room.

The prosecution alleges that the two accused persons took advantage of the student’s vulnerability and began having sexual intercourse with her.

They allegedly provided her with financial support and food, while one of the accused reportedly bought an Itel keypad mobile phone for her.

In July 2026, the student was reportedly found using the phone at school. When questioned by the Dean of Discipline about where she obtained it, she allegedly disclosed that Adams Nyaaba Iddrisu had bought it for her.

According to the prosecution, further questioning led the student to disclose that the two accused persons had sexual intercourse with her at the security room, behind the dining hall, and at the Unity Block classroom after evening studies.

The matter was reported to the police by the complainant on July 23, 2026, after which the two suspects were arrested.

The prosecution stated that investigations were ongoing.

The two men have been granted bail of GH¢100,000 each by the Bolgatanga Circuit Court.

The court ordered each accused person to provide two sureties, with one of the sureties required to be a worker earning not less than GH¢3,000 a month.

As part of the bail conditions, the two accused are also required to report to the police once every two weeks.

The case has been adjourned to September 17, 2026.

Also read:

• Deputy Education Minister slams BOGISS authorities over handling of assault case

• Education Ministry condemns alleged sexual abuse of autistic student at BOGISS

The directive is contained in a letter dated August 28, 2026, signed on behalf of the President by the Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, following the continuing impasse between the two institutions.

The letter noted that the framework must set out mechanisms covering five key areas: development permitting, infrastructure coordination, revenue obligations, information sharing, and dispute resolution, alongside provision for periodic engagement between the TMA and TDC.

The document is expected to formally separate the functions of the two institutions.

The TMA will retain its municipal and regulatory mandate, while TDC will concentrate on commercial property development and related responsibilities, with neither institution allowed to assume or exercise functions legally assigned to the other.

Government gave the two ministers 14 days from the date of the letter to convene the leadership of both TMA and TDC, agree on the framework, and submit it to the President together with a report on the resolution of all outstanding matters.

According to GNACOPS, its 85 member private SHSs currently participating in the Free SHS programme have available vacancies and the capacity to admit the affected candidates.

In a press statement issued on September 3, 2026, the Council said the situation requires urgent intervention to prevent thousands of young people from being left without an immediate pathway to continue their education.

GNACOPS said rather than negotiating a new arrangement, the government should utilise the existing MoU between the government and the Council, which provides the framework for private SHSs to participate in the Free SHS programme.

The Council said its member schools are prepared to admit affected candidates into accredited private SHS programmes across the country and provide remedial and bridging support to address foundational gaps.

It added that the schools are also ready to provide quality instruction aimed at preparing students for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and guide them towards tertiary education and other opportunities.

“Rather than requiring a new negotiation, this calls for government to activate and expand utilisation of the existing MoU without delay,” GNACOPS said.

The Council noted that its 85 participating private schools have already demonstrated the infrastructure, academic capacity and experience needed to deliver education under the Free SHS policy.

GNACOPS therefore urged the Ministry of Education to work with the Ghana Education Service and the CSSPS to direct the affected candidates to available spaces in participating private schools.

It warned that delays in resolving the situation could result in lost academic time for the affected students.

The Council said it is ready to mobilise its member schools immediately upon receiving a directive from government and expressed its willingness to engage the Minister of Education and other relevant stakeholders to finalise arrangements for absorbing the candidates.

GNACOPS stressed that the immediate utilisation of existing vacancies in private SHSs could provide a practical solution to the placement challenge and ensure that the affected students are not left behind.

Read the statement below:

READ ALSO:

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About 565,000 BECE candidates qualify for SHS placement – CSSPS

Speaking to the media during the distribution exercise at Hwidiem, District Chief Executive (DCE), Benjamin Assabil Donkor, said the intervention reflects the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and strengthening food production.

He explained that the fertiliser is being provided free of charge to help farmers reduce production costs and increase yields.

Mr Donkor, however, cautioned beneficiaries against abusing the programme, saying the Assembly would closely monitor the distribution and use of the inputs.

He warned that beneficiaries who are found selling the fertiliser would face legal action.

The fertiliser is intended for maize and vegetable production.

Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the support, saying the intervention would help reduce their input costs and improve their farm output.

READ ALSO:

Enough is enough – GIF demands immediate justice for slain forest guards

Underage riders driving rise in motorcycle crashes – Motor Riders Union

The Institute’s concerns follow what it describes as a disturbing pattern of attacks, injuries, intimidation and violence against forestry officers, including the recent killing of a forest guard at the Kakum Forest Reserve in the Central Region.

On Saturday, August 22, 2026, a wildlife patrol team at Kakum was attacked by two men suspected of engaging in illegal hunting in the Assin Kruwa area of the conservation area.

A Senior Park Ranger, identified as Otwey, was reportedly shot in the chest and killed during the encounter.

The two suspects have been identified as Bukari Abudu and John Mensah, with the latter currently in custody at the Central Regional Police Command.

According to GIF, the recent incident is one of five cases recorded over the past two years, amid what it describes as an alarming escalation in violent attacks, armed confrontations, intimidation, invasions and destruction of property targeting Forestry Commission officers and facilities.

In a statement signed by the President of GIF, Dr Abukari Nantogmah Attah, the Institute noted that although persons implicated in some of the killings had been arraigned before the courts, prosecution had not progressed at a pace that would bring justice to bereaved families and the forestry community.

“While GIF recognises that criminal investigations must follow due process and that suspects are entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court, the Institute is concerned about the apparent lack of publicly visible progress in some cases involving serious attacks against Forestry Commission personnel,” the statement said.

Dr Attah said repeated attacks without visible progress in delivering justice could embolden others to engage in similar acts.

“When the officers are attacked repeatedly and the perpetrators are not visibly brought to justice, the silence can be interpreted by other offenders as permission. That perception is dangerous and must be addressed.

“The GIF is deeply concerned that these incidents appear to reflect an emerging culture of impunity,” portions of the statement read.

The Institute said the attacks were not merely assaults on individual officers performing their lawful duties but also an affront to the authority of the State, the rule of law and efforts to protect Ghana’s forests and wildlife.

GIF is therefore calling on the relevant security and prosecutorial authorities to ensure that investigations into attacks against Forestry Commission personnel and facilities are pursued with urgency.

It further called for persons against whom sufficient evidence exists to be prosecuted in accordance with due process.

“…and that persons against whom sufficient evidence exists are prosecuted in accordance with due process. No person, group, company or politically connected interest should be above the law,” it said.

I’m shocked by extent of damage; it runs into millions of cedis – Sammi Awuku on Okuapeman- Mount Sinai clashes

Three killed in robbery attacks in Northern Region; Police hunt for suspects

According to him, the union has observed a worrying rise in the number of people below the legally stipulated age operating motorcycles, making underage riding a major concern in the recent increase in motorcycle-related crashes.

Speaking to the media on September 3, Mr Quarshie said the situation could improve significantly if the law requiring motorcycle riders to meet the stipulated minimum age is strictly enforced.

“I believe very strongly that when everything is done, that law will be enforced and the accident rate on the road will be reduced,” he said.

While acknowledging that there are irresponsible riders within the sector, Mr Quarshie said the increasing involvement of underage riders had become a particularly significant concern.

Motorists urged to protect riders

The union PRO also called on motorists and other road users to recognise motorcyclists as legitimate road users and exercise greater caution when sharing the road with them.

He said motorcyclists were particularly vulnerable because they have limited protection compared with occupants of enclosed vehicles.

“Going forward, I think that we are all citizens of Ghana and we need to look at the way we also behave towards motor riders on the road,” he said.

“As road users, we expect that they should also identify that motor riders are also road users. They must also understand that motor riders are vulnerable and they also need to be on the road.”

Mr Quarshie said improving road safety should therefore be a shared responsibility involving motorcyclists, motorists and other road users.

Union intensifies road safety education

His comments come shortly after the launch of a road safety campaign involving the National Road Safety Authority and the Ministry of Transport, with the Commercial National Motor Riders Union participating in the initiative.

Mr Quarshie said the union would use the campaign to intensify education and sensitisation among its members on responsible riding and compliance with road safety regulations.

He said the union would continue organising sensitisation programmes to educate riders on safe riding practices and their responsibilities as road users.

Riders urged to join union

Mr Quarshie also encouraged commercial motor riders who are not members of the Commercial National Motor Riders Union to join the organisation.

He said membership would enable the union to better educate riders on road safety while providing representation and support when they encounter difficulties.

“We are telling those who are riding motorbikes to join the Commercial National Motor Riders Union so that the right thing will be done on the road,” he said.

“This will also enable us to defend them when issues come up.”

Mr Quarshie said the union would continue working with relevant authorities and other stakeholders to promote safer motorcycle use and reduce motorcycle-related crashes on Ghana’s roads.

Three killed in robbery attacks in Northern Region; Police hunt for suspects

GNFS reveals cause of accident that claimed 13 lives on Aflao Highway

The development marks significant progress in preparations for the major road project, with the military engineering team expected to clear the remaining stretch as it advances towards Sawua.

In a post on X on Thursday, September 3, the Ghana Armed Forces said the corridor-clearing exercise had entered its final stage and commended its engineers for their efforts in tackling the challenging terrain.

“The finish line is in sight. Out of 176 kilometres of challenging terrain, just 6 KM REMAIN!” the Ghana Armed Forces stated.

The latest update follows an earlier announcement in July that more than half of the expressway corridor had been cleared.

As of June 25, 2026, 89.5 kilometres, representing 50.9 per cent of the corridor, had been cleared. The entire exercise was initially scheduled to be completed within 20 weeks.

The corridor-clearing exercise is a key preparatory step for the Accra–Kumasi Expressway, as it will create the required right of way ahead of major construction works.

The proposed expressway is expected to improve connectivity between Accra and Kumasi, reduce travel time, ease congestion and facilitate the movement of people and goods.

The completion of the remaining six-kilometre stretch is therefore expected to pave the way for the next phase of the project.

THE RACE TO SAWUA

The finish line is in sight. Out of 176 kilometres of challenging terrain, just 6 KM REMAIN!
The elite Ghana Armed Forces Engineers have pushed through with absolute grit.

Watch the incredible journey of military discipline, precision, and unwavering service… pic.twitter.com/50ZZFNaKNs

— Ghana Armed Forces (@GhArmedForces) September 3, 2026

Three killed in robbery attacks in Northern Region; Police hunt for suspects

I’m shocked by extent of damage; it runs into millions of cedis – Sammi Awuku on Okuapeman- Mount Sinai clashes

In a strongly worded statement, the NPP said it was “profoundly shocked and disgusted” by a video circulating publicly in which the Chief Justice is alleged to have made comparative political commentary suggesting that the current NDC administration and its appointed Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) are performing better than the previous eight-year NPP government.

The party described the comments as inappropriate for the head of Ghana’s Judiciary, arguing that they amounted to partisan political commentary.

“This is not the language of a Chief Justice. It is the language of a party propagandist, of a kind exclusively reserved for NDC communicators and serial callers, and it has no place whatsoever in the mouth of the head of Ghana’s Judiciary,” the NPP stated.

The party further accused the Chief Justice of exhibiting a pattern of conduct that raises questions about his political neutrality.

According to the NPP, the Chief Justice’s participation in functions involving political appointees of the current government, coupled with his alleged comments, undermines public confidence in the independence of the Judiciary.

The party cited Articles 125 and 127 of the 1992 Constitution, which establish the Judiciary as an independent arm of government and require judicial officers to act without fear, favour, affection or ill will.

The NPP also took issue with the Chief Justice’s reported declaration that everything must be done to ensure the success of President John Mahama’s agenda.

The party questioned whether such a commitment was consistent with the Chief Justice’s constitutional responsibility, particularly in cases involving persons associated with the NPP.

“The President’s declared agenda includes Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), under which persons associated with the NPP are being arraigned before the very courts over which he presides,” the statement said.

“A Chief Justice swears a single oath, and it is to the Constitution: to no President, no party and no agenda.”

The NPP further alleged that the Judiciary has demonstrated “extraordinary alacrity” in handling what it described as politically sensitive cases involving members of the opposition.

It cited the incarceration of former NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, as an example.

The party alleged that justice was being administered at “two speeds,” with opposition figures facing accelerated proceedings while persons perceived to be aligned with the government enjoyed comparatively slower processes.

The NPP claimed the Chief Justice’s words and conduct have strengthened concerns about alleged coordination between the Judiciary and the Jubilee House.

It warned that any attempt to turn the Judiciary into an extension of the Executive would undermine one of the key pillars of Ghana’s constitutional democracy.

The party also criticised the Chief Justice over the state of court infrastructure and working conditions within the Judiciary.

It claimed that several courtrooms and registries remain in poor condition, with staff working under difficult circumstances that affect justice delivery.

According to the NPP, the Chief Justice has failed to give sufficient attention to these challenges while allegedly spending more time engaging with government agencies.

“With respect, My Lord, the leaking roofs are in your courts, not in the ministries,” the party said.

The NPP further accused the Chief Justice of failing to introduce meaningful reforms to address delays in the justice system, describing his visible activities as focused on targeting opposition voices.

“A Chief Justice whose legacy is persecution rather than reform has forfeited every claim to the confidence of the nation,” it stated.

The opposition party said it will soon organise a major press conference to present what it described as the “full record” of the Chief Justice’s conduct to the public.

It stressed that the Judiciary belongs to the people of Ghana and must remain independent of both the President and political parties.

The NPP is therefore demanding that the Chief Justice immediately retract his alleged partisan comments and his reported vow to support the President’s agenda.

Failure to do so, the party said, should compel him to resign and “formally join the NDC.”

The party also called on President Mahama to fill the vacant position on the Council of State and publicly disavow any arrangement concerning the Chief Justice’s post-retirement future.

“The courtroom is the last refuge of the ordinary Ghanaian, and the NPP will resist its conversion into an instrument of political persecution with every lawful means at our disposal,” the statement concluded.

The initiative forms part of the Service’s digital transformation agenda and is aimed at improving fire safety compliance, monitoring and service delivery across the country. 

In a statement issued and signed by Divisional Officer One (DO I), Emmanuel Bonney, Head of Public Relations, and copied to the Ghana News Agency, the Service said the AFCAS platform was now open to the public. 

It said the system was being implemented in accordance with the Fire Precaution (Premises) Regulations, 2003 (L.I. 1724), as amended by L.I. 2249. 

The GNFS said under Regulations 1 and 2 of L.I. 1724, all premises, whether commercial or residential, were required to obtain a fire permit before the commencement of building construction and a fire certificate upon completion of the works. 

It added that Regulations 11 and 12 also required fire alarms, fire equipment and fire extinguishers to be affixed with official GNFS tags for inspection. 

The Service, therefore, directed vehicle owners, residential and commercial property owners, building owners and occupiers nationwide to submit their applications through the AFCAS digital platform. 

It advised members of the public to purchase only fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment bearing official GNFS AFCAS tags obtained from licensed Fire Protection Contractors. 

The GNFS also directed procurement departments of property management companies, commercial property operators, institutions, businesses and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to engage only GNFS-AFCAS licensed Fire Protection Contractors for the installation of fire alarms, fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment. 

“All installed fire safety equipment must be tagged with an official GNFS-AFCAS QR code,” the statement said. 

The Service said newly imported fire equipment would be tagged at the point of entry, while owners of existing fire equipment would have six months from the date of the publication to arrange for GNFS-authorised fire safety inspectors to tag the equipment. 

The GNFS said the AFCAS platform was designed to strengthen enforcement, monitoring and the administration of fire safety, while fostering effective collaboration between the Service and the public. 

The portal, www.afcas.gnfs.gov.gh, is currently accessible to the public for service applications. 

The Service said an information brochure had also been published on the platform to provide detailed guidance on the application process, objectives, benefits and operational procedures. 

It urged all relevant stakeholders to review the guidelines before submitting their applications and called for their full cooperation in the implementation of the initiative. 

Also read:

• Ghana National Fire Service pays courtesy call on Asantehemaa

• A-Plus under fire after calling flood victim ‘stupid’ over drainage appeal

Speaking on the Joy FM Super Morning Show on Thursday, September 3, Press Secretary and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, Hashmin Mohammed, said the Ministry is now fully prepared to release the placement results.

When asked whether the placement process had been completed and whether the Ministry was ready to publish the results, Mr Mohammed assured that the process has been completed and the results would be released tomorrow.

“We are set to release the placement results tomorrow [Friday],” he said

Mr Mohammed said the initial plan was to release the placements last week, but the Ministry had to extend the deadline after discovering that a large number of candidates had not been able to upload their information onto the CSSPS platform.

He said the Ministry considered it necessary to give the affected candidates additional time because the placement process is based on ensuring that all qualified candidates have an opportunity to secure a place in a second-cycle institution.

“When we thought we could release it as of last week, unfortunately, we had some students who were unable to load their data into the CSSPS system. And then, looking at the number, the number was huge,” he explained.

According to Mr Mohammed, about 20,000 candidates had initially been unable to upload their data when the Ministry extended the deadline.

He said the decision to extend the process was guided by the need to ensure fairness and equity.

“If we are operating on an equity-based system, we needed to offer them the opportunity to extend the date so that they would be able to upload their data into the system for them to be placed into a school,” he said.

He stressed that being qualified for placement comes with an expectation that the candidate will be assigned a school.

“One of the requirements is that once you are qualified, you need to be placed into a school,” he said.

Mr Mohammed said the extension has allowed the vast majority of the affected candidates to complete the process.

“As I am speaking to you now, we’ve had about 18,000 who have inputted their data into the system,” he disclosed.

He said the remaining approximately 2,000 candidates are students from special needs schools.

According to him, these candidates do not have to go through the same school choice confirmation process as other candidates.

“The remaining 2,000, we know where they are. They are the special needs schools. And special needs schools, they don’t need to go through the choice confirmation,” he explained.

He said the placement of such candidates is handled differently because their schools have already been identified.

“Their schools only give us the list, and then we place them manually into the system because their schools are already defined,” he said.

Chief of Staff to the Effutu Omanhene, Ebo Ghartey, said unchecked comments by political leaders could inflame tensions and undermine efforts to restore calm following the recent violence at New Winneba.

The call follows an attack at New Winneba in the Central Region that left three people dead and 19 others injured.

Speaking at a press conference at New Winneba, Mr Ghartey warned that the situation could deteriorate if community and political leaders fail to exercise restraint in their public pronouncements.

The Chief of Effutu Ayipe, Nenyi Apraku, also urged politicians to use their positions to promote development and peaceful coexistence between the people of Effutu and Gomoa, rather than make statements that could provoke further conflict.

Meanwhile, the Abusuapanin of New Winneba, William De-Carthia, has rejected claims that the three people who died in the attack were killed by Effutu youth.

He described the allegation as untrue and called for the circumstances surrounding the deaths to be properly investigated before blame is assigned.

Also read:

• Afenyo-Markin calls for swift arrests over deadly New Winneba violence

• A-Plus narrowly escapes attack by angry New Winneba residents

According to him, the proper functioning of a hospital largely depends on the quality of leadership and management at the facility, rather than waiting for the sector Minister or central government to address basic operational issues.

Speaking on Adom TV’s Badwam, Dr Osei likened a hospital to a hotel, arguing that patients deserve a clean, serene and comfortable environment while receiving treatment.

“The hospital is like a hotel that you go to sleep in with your own money. So you ask yourself, what kind are you looking for? You want a serene and neat environment and a good bedsheet to sleep on but we always think the sick are vulnerable so they don’t have a choice,” he noted.

He said hospital administrators are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that patients receive not only effective treatment but also quality and seamless care in a conducive environment.

“In a properly functional hospital will depend on the leadership. You don’t expect the Minister to come and tell you how to manage your facility. You have been given a work, so you are responsible.

“Apart from treating the person for them to be healed, what are the other functions? That will make the hospital great? Because if the ward is not a place well kept for patients to be, if you admit someone there, it won’t be good,” he said.

Dr Osei stressed the need for hospital managers to prioritise cleanliness, organisation and the overall patient experience as part of efforts to ensure seamless care.

“So you have to ensure that you provide seamless care. It all depends on priority for you to,” he added.

He further argued that quality healthcare management does not always depend on having abundant resources, but rather on how effectively available resources are utilised.

“It doesn’t matter to have all the resources in this world, and that is what quality assurance is, making the best out of the minimum resources.

“Neatness doesn’t need money. It’s the approach, organisation, and how you carry people to see this is required from every living thing on this earth.”

Dr Osei questioned why basic maintenance issues, such as overgrown grass or damaged nets at health facilities, should automatically become the responsibility of central government.

“So I don’t think if somewhere is grown of grasses, a net is torn, it should be the responsibility of central government,” he said.

According to Mr Kwarteng, the Chief Justice’s remarks amounted to an inappropriate political comparison between two administrations and were inconsistent with the restraint expected of the head of the Judiciary.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Kwarteng said the issue should not be reduced to whether the Chief Justice’s comments were truthful, but whether they were appropriate given the stature of his office.

“What he said is not the matter of truth. Let’s not try to water it down to that level,” he said.

He argued that the Chief Justice’s reference to Ghana’s performance over the “past eight years” amounted to a comparison between two political administrations, which he considers inappropriate for the head of the Judiciary.

“What he did is a commentary of political comparison of two political parties, which is a no-go area,” Mr Kwarteng stated.

He explained that the controversy was primarily an issue of ethics and the moral standards expected of persons who occupy high public offices, rather than whether the comments could attract legal sanctions.

“Ethics is not something a person can be arraigned in court when frowned upon, but it is moral standards. Right is right and wrong is wrong,” he said.

Mr Kwarteng argued that the Chief Justice’s assessment should not be defended simply on the basis of whether his statements were accurate.

He said a proper assessment of Ghana’s progress should instead examine specific sectors and social challenges.

“Let’s go sector by sector. Tackling galamsey and other social issues, then you know you are now Afrobarometer,” he said.

He described the Chief Justice’s comments as inappropriate and urged supporters of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) to acknowledge that he may have erred.

“It is so low that nobody should defend it,” Mr Kwarteng said.

“He mispoke, and we should admit it. And at best, that is the defence the NDC can give,” he added.

Mr Kwarteng stressed that occupants of high constitutional offices are expected to exercise restraint in their public comments because their words carry the weight and prestige of the institutions they lead.

“There are certain things you don’t do given your position to protect the sanctity of your office,” he said.

Using the example of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, he argued that the expectations surrounding high office often go beyond written laws.

“When have we ever seen Otumfuo drinking even water in public?” he asked.

He maintained that the controversy was therefore not primarily about legality or factual accuracy, but about the standards of conduct expected from the head of the Judiciary.

“We are not talking about matters of legality and truth,” he said.

Mr Kwarteng also questioned the basis for the Chief Justice’s assessment, arguing that it appeared to have been informed by what he had heard rather than independently established evidence.

“Even the truth he referenced, it was on hearsay, so even on the prima facie, there is no truth. It was based on speculation. He couldn’t present any fact to support it,” he argued.

He further noted that the Judiciary derives much of its authority from the respect, prestige and sanctity attached to the judicial office, rather than from physical force.

“The Judiciary has no arms or ammunition, or do they have soldiers working there? But they thrive on orality and sanctity, and there is prestige and status that comes with the office and that is why they are respected,” Mr Kwarteng said.

Also read:

• Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie commends public institutions, questions Ghana’s performance over past eight years

• Judicial independence requires political restraint – Kwaku Azar cautions Chief Justice

Under the initiative, staff of participating organisations can purchase genuine gold jewellery through structured payment plans or outright payment.

The company also offers onsite product presentations, allowing employees to view and select jewellery pieces at their workplaces.

In a statement issued on September 3, 2026, GoldBod Jewellery said the programme is aimed at making authentic gold jewellery more accessible to workers while providing a flexible and convenient purchasing experience.

Corporate institutions interested in extending the opportunity to their employees have been encouraged to contact the company to discuss arrangements tailored to their organisations.

“Enquiries can be directed to +233 53 630 8888 or by visiting the Accra Main Showroom at Diamond House,” the statement added.

Also read:

• GoldBod Jewellery announces change of official e-commerce website

• GoldBod Jewellery invites sales agents, franchise owners and strategic partners for expansion drive

Read the full statement below:

His comments come amid criticism of the Chief Justice after he questioned what Ghana had been doing over the previous eight years while commending recent improvements recorded by some state institutions.

During a tour on Wednesday, the Chief Justice expressed satisfaction with work being done at the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) and said information gathered during an earlier visit to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) had strengthened his positive assessment of some state institutions.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Adjei said the Chief Justice was entitled to express his views as a Ghanaian citizen and should not be criticised simply for making an observation.

“I think where the NPP is offended is the fact that he said certain things didn’t go well in the last eight years,” he said.

Mr Adjei argued that if the Chief Justice’s comments were based on developments he had observed, there was nothing wrong with him acknowledging them.

“When we say someone has integrity, you should be able to see truth when you do. Maybe people are offended because of the comparison,” he stated.

He maintained that the Chief Justice’s remarks should be viewed within the context of his rights as a citizen rather than interpreted as a partisan political statement.

“The Chief Justice spoke in a just manner as a citizen of Ghana,” Mr Adjei said.

“It was free speech, and we are now criticising the free speech,” he added.

Mr Adjei further challenged critics to identify which part of the Chief Justice’s assessment was factually inaccurate.

“What the man said, which of them is not true?” he asked.

He also questioned the argument that Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, because of his position, should have refrained from commenting on the country’s affairs.

“The argument that given his personality, he shouldn’t have made those comments, is he not a citizen?” he asked.

According to Mr Adjei, developments in the country affect every Ghanaian, including members of the Judiciary.

“When the nation goes bad or well, it affects them too,” he said.

He clarified that his defence of the Chief Justice should not be interpreted as an assertion that the previous government deliberately undermined state-owned enterprises.

“I am not saying he ran down the SOEs under the previous government,” he said.

Mr Adjei maintained, however, that the Chief Justice had made his observation and that political actors were free to interpret it differently.

“He has spoken, and whether we want to hear it or not, he has spoken. He spoke in a just manner,” he said.

He added that political leaders may attach different meanings to the Chief Justice’s remarks, but that should not take away his right to speak his mind.

“Shouldn’t he say the truth when he sees it? We as politicians can have a lot of interpretations of the statement,” he said.

The debate follows recent discussions over the performance of Ghana’s SOEs, particularly after the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) reported improvements in the financial and operational performance of several state-owned enterprises.

Also read:

• Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie commends public institutions, questions Ghana’s performance over past eight years

• Judicial independence requires political restraint – Kwaku Azar cautions Chief Justice

According to her, the two schools share a common boundary, which makes it easy for students to move from one institution to the other.

She said the Regional Coordinating Council, in collaboration with the relevant authorities, is working on measures to address the situation before students return to school.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Madam Awatey said the government would provide the necessary resources to complete the project.

“Apart from the common boundary they share, we will build a wall between them to prevent walk-ins and other things. So, we are planning on how to do it before the school resumes,” she said.

“With the help of God and the government, we have the financial capacity to put up the structures before the students resume again,” she added.

The minister also disclosed that security agencies have made some arrests in connection with the clashes, although she could not confirm the exact number.

“We have made some arrests, but I’m not sure of the number of arrests the Regional Commander has made, and investigations are still ongoing,” she said.

Madam Awatey said the incident was unusual and that it was the first time she had heard of such a situation involving students since becoming Eastern Regional Minister.

“This is the first time I have heard something like that from the students since I became the minister,” she said.

She explained that the outcome of the ongoing investigations would help establish what triggered the confrontation and determine what exactly happened.

“So, after the investigations, we will see what really happened,” she added.

On security, the minister said she had instructed the police to maintain a presence at the schools even during the vacation period.

She said she visited the area on Wednesday with the divisional commanders, the Regional Commander and officials from the Ghana National Fire Service to assess the situation.

“Leaving there yesterday, Wednesday, I went there with the divisional commanders, Regional Commander and the Fire Service, and I gave orders that the police should take care of their security until the school is finally back,” she said.

She added that security personnel would remain at the schools throughout the vacation and continue monitoring the situation when students return.

The minister further said discussions would be held with the relevant assemblies on the rehabilitation of school facilities affected by the fire.

“We will speak to the assembly to see how the school buildings where the fire has affected can be repaired,” she said.

Okuapeman SHS and Mount Sinai SHS were affected by violent clashes between students, resulting in injuries and damage to school property.

Six Okuapeman SHS students were injured, while classrooms, offices, and a Visual Arts studio were among facilities affected during the disturbances.

The exact circumstances that triggered the confrontation remain unclear as security agencies continue investigations into the incident.

READ:

• They’re on break – Eastern Regional Minister clarifies closure of Okuapeman, Mount Sinai SHS

• Over 10 students arrested in connection with Okuapeman-Mount Sinai SHS clash

• Treat Okuapeman-Mount Sinai violent clash as criminal matter – Akuapem North MP

Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, said the proximity of the two schools makes it possible for students to easily move from one institution to the other, creating an environment where confrontations can quickly escalate.

According to her, the latest incident began on Sunday when students of Mount Sinai alerted their teacher on duty that students from Okuapeman were throwing stones.

“When you look at where Okuapeman and Mount Sinai are, they share a common boundary and you can even walk from Sinai to Okuapeman,” she said.

She explained that the teacher on duty intervened after being alerted and stopped the students from continuing with their activities.

“So that day, they seized them and told them no prep, so they could go back to their houses,” Madam Awatey said in an interview on Adom FMs morning show Dwaso Nsem.

The situation, however, escalated the following day when fires were reported at both schools.

According to the minister, some storerooms at Mount Sinai were affected, while the Visual Arts department office and two classrooms at Okuapeman were also burnt.

“Though the fire didn’t burn too much, the Fire Service and police there did well by getting rid of the fire,” she said.

The minister said authorities subsequently took steps to prevent further confrontation between students of the two institutions as they prepared for their scheduled vacation.

She stressed that the decision to release the students early should not be interpreted as a formal closure of the schools, explaining that the students were already due to vacate the campuses.

“Not that the school has closed down. It’s their normal holiday that they have to go on because of the situation,” she clarified.

Madam Awatey said buses would be used to transport students home, with assistance available for those who might require support with transportation.

ALSO;

• Okuapeman-Mount Sinai attacks: Anyone involved will face accountability – Dr Apaak

• They’re on break – Eastern Regional Minister clarifies closure of Okuapeman, Mount Sinai SHS

• Over 10 students arrested in connection with Okuapeman-Mount Sinai SHS clash

Mr Awuku said the destruction of school infrastructure was extensive and had created an unexpected financial burden for the schools, the Akuapem North Municipal Assembly and other stakeholders.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he said the destruction was particularly worrying because some of the affected facilities were dormitories where students sleep.

“Dormitories people sleep in were up in flames, meaning people could have been killed in the middle of the night,” he said.

The MP said the cost of rebuilding the damaged facilities would require contributions from multiple stakeholders, including the Municipal Assembly, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and his office.

However, he insisted that the financial responsibility should not be left entirely to the government or public institutions.

According to him, parents of students identified as having participated in the violence must also bear part of the cost of reconstruction.

“The debt that has accrued, as the MP, I have to use part of my Common Fund; the Assembly, the PTA are all supposed to contribute towards the rebuilding. The parents of the students involved in this crime must brace themselves that they are going to contribute because it just doesn’t make sense,” he stated.

Mr Awuku said the damage had placed an unexpected financial burden on the stakeholders, as the reconstruction was not part of the Assembly’s planned expenditure for the year or his Common Fund commitments.

“The situation is worrying. This is not part of the Assembly’s plans for the year or even as the MP’s Common Fund,” he said.

He also appealed to old students of both schools to support efforts to restore the damaged facilities before students return to campus.

“I will appeal to the old students of both schools to come on board and help show responsibility and commitment,” he said.

Mr Awuku noted that the students would eventually have to return to school, making the restoration of the damaged facilities an urgent priority.

“Because these students are coming back but we don’t even have facilities to house them. So we must do all that before they resume,” he added.

He described the extent of the destruction as difficult to comprehend, particularly given the potential danger posed to students during the overnight attacks.

“The scale of destruction to properties is unimaginable,” Mr Awuku said.

Also read:

• Okuapeman-Mount Sinai attacks: Anyone involved will face accountability – Dr Apaak

• They’re on break – Eastern Regional Minister clarifies closure of Okuapeman, Mount Sinai SHS

In a statement issued on Thursday, September 3, 2026, the Ministry commended The Fourth Estate for its investigative work, saying such efforts contribute to good governance, public accountability and operational efficiency.

The Ministry, however, reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on middlemen and third-party facilitators involved in the acquisition of attestation documents.

It said it remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency and ethical service delivery.

Management of the Ministry also condemned the activities of what it described as unscrupulous middlemen who have no official links to the Ministry but allegedly exploit vulnerable citizens seeking attestation services.

According to the Ministry, the individual implicated in the investigation is not a staff member of the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

It said after the investigation was brought to its attention, the individual was sanctioned by his respective institution and reported to law enforcement authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The Ministry added that the individual has also been barred from entering its premises.

The statement explained that the attestation process involves multiple institutions across different arms of government, adding that efforts to strengthen coordination and improve integrity and credibility across the process have been ongoing for several months.

The Ministry further disclosed that it had already begun comprehensive reforms of its consular and attestation services before The Fourth Estate’s investigation.

Among the measures being pursued are the introduction of cashless and digital payment systems, as well as the development of digital platforms to anchor the entire attestation process.

The reforms, the Ministry said, are intended to significantly reduce human interaction and opportunities for intermediaries to interfere in the process.

“We are confident that these reforms will produce desirable outcomes similar to what we have achieved with Passport Administration in Ghana,” the Ministry stated.

The Ministry also reminded the public that the Parliament-approved fee for attestation is GH¢200, which is collected by officials of the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department, who issue official receipts.

It warned the public against engaging middlemen, describing the practice as strictly illegal.

Citizens with information, enquiries or complaints concerning attestation services have been urged to contact the Ministry on 0240913284 or 0240793072, or email info@mfa.gov.gh.

According to Mr Awuku, the stones have become readily available “ammunition” for students whenever tensions between the two schools escalate.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he said the scale of the violence and the manner in which the stones were used pointed to a deeper problem requiring urgent attention.

“The students have a stockpile of stones, and when it comes to reprisal attacks, they go for them. They fly it like rockets,” he said.

Mr Awuku said the discovery was particularly disturbing because the stones were being deliberately used as weapons during confrontations between students of the two institutions.

“The stones are like ammunitions. It is an eye sore,” he stated.

He explained that tensions between the two schools had persisted over the years, particularly during football competitions, with occasional incidents triggering wider confrontations.

The latest escalation began on Monday when reports of students from both schools pelting each other with stones prompted the police to intervene.

Mr Awuku said some police officers were injured during the intervention, while security personnel remained in the area to prevent the situation from escalating further.

He said the police returned on Tuesday and stayed in the area until about 10pm or 11pm before leaving.

However, at about 1:20am, school authorities began receiving reports of attacks and the destruction of facilities on both campuses.

The violence left several students injured and caused extensive damage to school property.

Mr Awuku said about 25 students from Mount Sinai were injured, with some reportedly requiring surgery, while seven Okuapeman students also sustained injuries.

He said the scale of the destruction and the use of stones as weapons demonstrated the seriousness of the situation and warned against treating the incident as merely a disagreement between students.

The MP also pointed to the absence of a physical barrier between the two schools as a factor that makes it easier for confrontations to spill from one campus to the other.

He called for parents, school authorities and other stakeholders to take a more active role in addressing the behaviour of students and preventing further violence between the two institutions.

Also read:

• Six injured in violent clash between Okuapeman, Mount Sinai SHS students

• Over 10 students arrested in connection with Okuapeman-Mount Sinai SHS clash

She made the call after officially taking over the Ministry of Science and Environment from the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources at a handing-over ceremony.

Speaking after the ceremony, Dr Agyemang-Rawlings said protecting Ghana’s environment must be treated as a shared responsibility, with government playing a central role in driving meaningful and sustainable change.

She said the government must pursue positive transformation in environmental management while ensuring that Ghana’s efforts contribute to global initiatives aimed at tackling environmental degradation and climate-related challenges.

Dr Agyemang-Rawlings urged stakeholders to pool their expertise and ideas to develop sustainable solutions to the country’s environmental problems.

She stressed that collaboration and a sense of togetherness would be critical to achieving lasting progress.

The Minister also highlighted the need for discipline in the management of public resources, urging government officials to uphold transparency and accountability in the use of taxpayers’ money.

According to her, public resources must be managed responsibly and solely in the interest of Ghanaians.

“Accountability should remain a key principle in the work of government,” she said.

Dr Agyemang-Rawlings pledged to work closely with relevant institutions, communities and other stakeholders to advance Ghana’s environmental agenda.

She further encouraged individuals and organisations to contribute their knowledge, expertise and ideas towards building a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable environment.

The Minister noted that achieving meaningful environmental change would require sustained commitment from government, institutions, communities and individuals.

The handing-over ceremony formally marked the beginning of Dr Agyemang-Rawlings’ tenure as Minister of Science and Environment, as she assumes responsibility for advancing the government’s agenda on science and environmental protection.

Mr Awuku said the scale of the destruction became apparent when he visited the two schools following the clashes, describing what he saw as an “eye sore.”

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he said the two schools have a long history of co-existence despite a deep-rooted rivalry, particularly during sporting competitions.

“There is deep rivalry,” he said, explaining that the two institutions were established by two cousins and have consequently co-existed for years.

The MP said the absence of a physical barrier between the schools has also contributed to the tensions, with facilities belonging to both institutions located close to each other along the shared boundary.

He noted that some dormitories and classroom blocks belonging to Okuapeman SHS are situated along the border with Mount Sinai, while Mount Sinai also has washrooms, staff bungalows, dormitories and other facilities bordering Okuapeman.

According to Mr Awuku, tensions between the schools have been particularly evident during football competitions, although other incidents have also triggered confrontations over the years.

He said the situation became serious on Monday when there were reports of students from both schools pelting each other with stones, prompting the police to intervene.

Some police officers were reportedly injured while attempting to restore calm.

Mr Awuku said the police remained in the area for some time before leaving on Monday evening but returned on Tuesday as tensions persisted.

He said the situation eventually escalated into reprisal attacks in the early hours of Wednesday, resulting in extensive damage to facilities at both schools.

According to the MP, school authorities reported that about 25 Mount Sinai students were injured, with some requiring surgery, while seven Okuapeman students were also injured.

“Four of the injured Okuapeman students had been treated and discharged as of Wednesday,” he said.

Mr Awuku recalled that the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) had engaged the management of both schools about two years ago and encouraged them to strengthen their relationship and promote peaceful coexistence.

He said the latest incident, however, shows that more needs to be done, particularly by parents, to address the underlying rivalry among students.

“I was shocked by what I saw, and I think we have gotten to the point where parents must play a role in the shaping of our children,” he said.

Mr Awuku urged parents, school authorities and other stakeholders to work together to prevent the rivalry from escalating into further violence and destruction.

Also read:

• Over 10 students arrested in connection with Okuapeman-Mount Sinai SHS clash

• Treat Okuapeman-Mount Sinai violent clash as criminal matter – Akuapem North MP

Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, announced the plan during a visit to the site.

The proposed redevelopment will follow a military-led exercise to evacuate residents and clear the dumpsite, with the accumulated waste expected to be transported to the Adepa Waste Management Centre at Nsawam.

The project will also involve the dredging of the Korle Lagoon to improve its sanitary condition and address longstanding environmental challenges in the area.

Mr Ayariga said the government was determined to restore the area and create a cleaner and safer environment for residents.

He acknowledged that the clearing exercise could face resistance from some residents but expressed confidence that the initiative would receive broad public support.

“Those of us who want to clear it in Accra here, we are far more than those who want to resist clearing the mess,” he said.

The Minister said the redevelopment forms part of broader government efforts to improve sanitation, protect public health and transform heavily polluted areas within the capital.

He said the proposed housing project would provide an alternative use for the area while contributing to efforts to address the sanitation challenges associated with the current settlement.

The Minister made the declaration on Thursday during a monitoring visit to Kaneshie to inspect preparations by the contractor ahead of the commencement of the project.

After walking the stretch from the Kaneshie-Pamprom Junction to the Accra Academy area, Mr Adjei said the scope and potential impact of the project went far beyond a routine construction exercise.

According to him, the 1,500-metre stretch earmarked for the drainage works lies on one of Ghana’s critical highways, and any road closure without proper planning could create serious disruptions and pose a national security concern.

He expressed dissatisfaction with some of the previous work executed by the contractor expected to undertake the project and warned that potential challenges arising from the construction must be addressed before the work begins.

“This is not just about Works and Housing. The nature of this work is a national security issue,” Mr Adjei stated.

He insisted that the Ministries of Finance, Roads and Highways, and National Security must be consulted and involved in the planning process before construction commences.

The Minister stressed the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to managing the project to minimise traffic congestion, protect public safety and prevent disruptions along the Kaneshie-Winneba corridor during the construction period.

He said the government would therefore not allow the road closure to proceed without adequate preparations and coordination among the relevant institutions.

Also read:

• Transport operators threaten 20% fare increase over condition of Kasoa–Winneba road

• Mahama to inspect Kasoa–Winneba road works as Winneba–Mankessim dualisation hits 25%

The crash, which also left 18 people injured, occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, September 2, 2026, when the two vehicles, travelling in opposite directions, collided on a hill.

The Toyota Hiace, with registration number GX 3186-20, was travelling from Accra towards Aflao, while the Ford Transit, with registration number GW 5558-23, was heading from Aflao to Accra.

The Tema Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Divisional Officer Grade II (DO II), Ebenezer Yenzu, has explained that preliminary information indicates that the front of the Ford Transit crashed into the side of the Hiace as the Ford ascended the hill and the Hiace descended.

He said the collision caused extensive damage to both vehicles, adding that the front and doors of the Hiace were badly mangled, while the Ford Transit was left severely wrecked.

DO II Yenzu said the driver of the Hiace was among those injured.

He explained that firefighters from Sege received a distress call at 5:58 a.m. and arrived at the scene at 6:06 a.m. to commence rescue and extrication operations.

He added that the crew worked to remove victims trapped in the wreckage and transported all 18 injured persons to the Sege Polyclinic for medical attention.

Some of the injured victims were subsequently referred to the Ada East District Hospital at FaithKope for further treatment.

DO II Yenzu said that after the rescue operation, firefighters moved the wrecked vehicles to the side of the road, cleared debris from the highway and washed away blood spilled at the scene, following which traffic flow was restored on the affected stretch.

Also read:

• 13 reported dead, others injured in accident on Sege-Ada highway

• Firefighters rescue 68 after accident involving 2 buses on Kumasi-Accra Highway

This is in spite of the fact that nearly 620,000 sat for the exams.

Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show on Thursday, September 3, Mr Sherif said the Ghana Education Service’s analysis showed that a significant number of candidates had met the basic requirements for placement.

“Based on our analysis, we have about 565,000 qualified for placement this year,” he said.

He explained that qualification for placement is largely determined by a candidate’s performance in English Language and Mathematics.

“Those people have not failed in either English or Mathematics. So, you are disqualified from placement if you have failed in either English or Mathematics,” Mr Sherif explained.

His comments come as authorities prepare for the placement of candidates into Senior High Schools and Senior High Technical Schools across the country.

According to Mr Sherif, the examination results also revealed varying levels of performance among candidates, with a considerable number recording low scores in some of the core subjects.

“You find out somebody got one, somebody got ten over 100, somebody got, say, twelve, twenty over 100, and that qualifies as a failure,” he said.

He disclosed that approximately 55,000 candidates did not meet the requirements for placement.

“There are about 55,000,” he stated when asked about the number of candidates who did not qualify for placement.

On the overall performance of candidates, Mr Sherif said only about 17 per cent obtained aggregates ranging from 6 to 18.

“If you look at the data for the performance of the candidates, we only had about 17 per cent of the candidates getting aggregates from 6 to 18,” he said.

He noted that this represented approximately 107,000 candidates.

Mr Sherif further indicated that about 35 per cent of candidates, representing approximately 252,000 students, obtained aggregates ranging from 6 to 24.

“We only had about 252,000, or about 35 per cent of the candidates, getting from aggregate 6 to 24,” he added.

With approximately 620,000 candidates having sat for the BECE, the figures indicate that about 565,000 candidates are expected to be considered for placement, while roughly 55,000 may not secure placement under the stated qualification criteria.