She described their situation as a matter of life and called for urgent government attention.

Her concerns follow a recent visit to cocoa farming communities in the Ashanti Region, part of the Minority Caucus’s ongoing tour to engage farmers and better understand their challenges.

Speaking to Adom News on the sidelines of a cocoa farmers’ engagement event held at Kwakokrom in the Amansie West District, the legislator said the accounts shared by female farmers were deeply troubling and reflected severe hardship that can no longer be ignored.

“These women are not just farmers, they’re mothers, they’re breadwinners,” the MP said.

According to her, the farmers are struggling to provide basic necessities such as food, healthcare, and education for their children.

She expressed concern over the hardships endured by many farmers, stating that some have died while others are bedridden, largely due to cocoa price reductions and delayed payments.

She recounted the distressing case of a female cocoa farmer whose husband was hospitalized, but they could not afford his treatment because the purchasing clerk had taken their cocoa without making payment.

She questioned the President and those managing the cocoa sector on how many more farmers must suffer before appropriate measures are taken.

“We implore the President to understand that the reality on the ground is not what was promised. Some farmers cannot feed their children, pay their medical bills, or even afford their children’s school fees,” she stated.

“How many more cocoa farmers must die before the government understands the plight of the farmers and takes appropriate action?” Damata Ama Appianimaa Salam asked.

After engaging with the farmers, the MP noted that many are calling for cocoa prices to be restored to previous levels, particularly if government is unable to meet its commitments.

She emphasized that the challenges facing cocoa farmers should not be politicised, describing the situation as a humanitarian crisis.

“This is not about NPP or NDC,” she stressed. “What I witnessed should not be our usual political conversation. The reality on the ground is very sad, and it is escalating beyond the cocoa sector.”

She also urged the President and female Members of Parliament to treat the issue with the urgency it deserves.

Her remarks add to growing calls for government action to address concerns within the cocoa sector and protect the livelihoods of farmers.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he stated that persons with disabilities, while vulnerable, should also be considered within the broader context of fairness and equal treatment.

“Because we are special, that is why we are working on it,” he said, noting that efforts are underway to improve their situation.

He explained that in some instances, opportunities are limited, citing an example where only three people were selected out of 35 applicants.

He also referenced how persons with disabilities are recognised in education as students with special needs.

According to him, government has taken steps to support persons with disabilities, including increasing feeding grants from five cedis to fifteen cedis.

“Now our feeding grants have been increased… because we are special,” he added.

Mr. Assor stressed that while persons with disabilities deserve attention, they should also be treated fairly alongside other citizens.

“I urge my people that since we are special, we will make sure they are treated well and equally,” he said, calling for cooperation and patience.

His comments come in response to concerns raised by a coalition of unemployed graduates with disabilities, who have threatened a nationwide demonstration on March 24 if the government fails to provide a clear roadmap to address their long-standing unemployment challenges.

The group issued a one-month ultimatum on February 9, which has since expired without a concrete response.

Speaking at a press conference, the coalition expressed frustration that many qualified persons with disabilities remain unemployed despite years of education and sacrifice, insisting that urgent action is needed to address the issue.

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According to her, many of the students are prioritising such relationships over their education, often for as little as GH¢2 transport fares.

Speaking to Adom News during the Asanteman Nkosuo Honorary Awards 2026, she urged young women to focus on their academic and skills development rather than engaging in what she described as unnecessary relationships.

“I have consistently advised them to prioritise their education, which will secure a better future, rather than following men. Such behaviour can lead to teenage pregnancy and negatively affect their education,” she stated.

The Queen Mother further noted that she has taken it upon herself to help find employment opportunities for unemployed youth in Goaso in order to keep them engaged and productive.

The Asanteman Nkosuo Honorary Awards 2026 was held in Kumasi to celebrate excellence and recognise individuals contributing to development within Asanteman.

Speakers at the event used the platform not only to celebrate achievements but also to engage the youth on values that promote success and community development.

Chairman for the occasion and CEO of CAKEM Enterprise Ltd, Mr. J. A.Kuffour , who was also an award recipient, advised young job seekers to cultivate trustworthiness.

Some awardees of Asanteman Nkosuo honorary awards were CEO of Alexiboam Company Alex Boampong, Maxi Da Car Dealer CEO, Prince Kumi and Barimah Twereku Ampem lll, the Paramount Chief of Ntotroso Traditional Council.

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In a letter dated March 16, signed by both the Trades and Agriculture ministers of the Francophone country, it noted that a ban is necessary to feed the country’s national processing units.

Consequently, the issuance of Special Export Authorisations (ASE) has also been suspended.

The letter cautioned operators holding valid fresh tomato export permits that they have two (2) weeks from the date of signature of this communiqué to complete their export procedures.

Following this period, the permit will be considered invalid.

The Burkinabé government warned that any violator of the directive will be sanctioned in accordance with applicable regulations.

“Furthermore, any goods seized in violation of this measure will be returned, free of charge, to the fresh tomato processing plants established under the popular shareholding scheme,” the letter translated to English noted.

It continued that, “The Government is counting on the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders in the tomato sector, as well as all state technical services, particularly border control services and security forces, to ensure the proper implementation of the terms of this communiqué”.

Kumasi vendors are already feeling the heat

The impact of the ban is being felt well before any formal shortage sets in.

Some tomato vendors at the Racecourse Market in Kumasi are already expressing frustration over the development, warning that prices could spike if the situation is not quickly addressed.

The vendors are using the occasion to call on the government to prioritise the local tomato industry by revamping irrigation systems and investing in local processing facilities — longstanding concerns that have left Ghana’s tomato sector heavily dependent on imports from neighbouring countries, particularly Burkina Faso.

Ghana has historically relied on cross-border produce flows from Burkina Faso to supplement domestic tomato supply, especially during lean seasons when local harvests are insufficient to meet demand.

A sudden and indefinite halt to those exports is therefore expected to tighten supply significantly, with knock-on effects on prices at markets nationwide.

Northern Ghana, which serves as the main corridor for produce trade with Burkina Faso, is expected to feel the shortage most acutely in the short term.

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Suzana painted a painful picture of a marriage that, she says, collapsed over one unborn child.

According to her, the conflict began when she became pregnant with their last child.

“He said the children were too many and I should abort it,” she recounted.

She claims her husband did not just suggest it—he allegedly pressured her repeatedly and even gave her pills in an attempt to terminate the pregnancy.

“He gave me medicine to take so that the pregnancy would come out,” she alleged. But the attempt, she says, failed.

Suzana told the panel that when it became clear the pregnancy would continue, her husband made a drastic decision.

“He left the house,” she said.

According to her, he has since moved on and is now living with another woman, leaving her behind with all their children.

Perhaps the most controversial part of Suzana’s claim came when she described her attempts to seek support from him.

“When I go to him, he shows me money but refuses to give me,” she said. “He says he will not spend his money on me.”

Show host, Ohemaa Benewa, did not hide her concern: “Fifteen years of marriage, several children, and this is how it ends? Over a child that has already been born?”

Lady Gold condemned the alleged pressure to abort: “No woman should be forced into that decision. It must be her choice.”

Evangelist de Graft Addai added a moral perspective: “If you create life, you must take responsibility for it. Running away does not erase fatherhood.”

Meanwhile, Big Mama (Gifty Donkor) focused on the children caught in the middle: “This is no longer about the couple. It is about the children who now depend on one parent alone.”

A Mother Left Alone

Suzana says that since her husband left, she has been solely responsible for raising all their children—feeding them, caring for them, and meeting their daily needs without support.

“I am suffering with the children alone,” she said, her voice breaking, drawing sympathy from sections of the audience.

Interestingly, Suzana made it clear she is no longer fighting to save the marriage. Instead, she is demanding structure, accountability, and closure.

“He should come and settle things properly,” she stated.

Her demands are direct: that the marriage be formally dissolved, that accommodation be provided for the children, and that he takes full responsibility for their upkeep.

“After that, he is free to marry whoever he wants,” she added.

As the programme drew to a close, Ohemaa Benewa delivered a firm and thought-provoking message: “Marriage is not a place to run from responsibility. Children are not mistakes to be erased when they become inconvenient.”

She urged men and women alike to make responsible decisions, especially when it comes to family planning, communication, and conflict resolution.

The case remains unresolved, with the husband yet to respond to the allegations.

But one question continues to echo beyond the Obra studio: Can a man walk away from a family simply because he did not want one more child—or does responsibility outlive regret?

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During the engagement with the Minister, Hon. Eric Opoku, and officials of the Ministry, the Vice President commended the Ministry’s sustained efforts to transition agriculture from subsistence farming into a modern, competitive agribusiness sector.

Discussions highlighted key interventions aimed at addressing food security challenges, including the implementation of the Feed Ghana Programme, expansion of irrigation and vegetable production, strengthening of the National Food Buffer Stock system, and strategic investments in soil and crop testing.

Additional initiatives to revitalize the poultry industry, support vulnerable women, and establish Farmer Service Centres nationwide are expected to boost productivity, create jobs, and improve access to modern agricultural services.

The Vice President underscored food security as a central pillar of national development, reiterating the importance of achieving greater self-sufficiency in food production. She further emphasized the need to deepen collaboration with research institutions such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research to drive innovation, while promoting local participation in the assembly and maintenance of agricultural machinery.

The Government of Ghana remains resolute in its commitment to supporting the Ministry’s mandate and strengthening coordination across institutions to build a resilient, productive, and self-sufficient agricultural sector for the country.

The payments were made to key state institutions, including the Ghana Revenue Authority, Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Finance.

The company’s full-year contribution includes GH¢5.382 billion in corporate tax, GH¢1.628 billion in mineral royalties and GH¢1.832 billion in carried interest.

It also paid GH¢3.025 billion in capital gains tax following the sale of its Akyem Mine in April 2025, alongside GH¢514 million in PAYE tax and GH¢434 million in withholding tax.

Additional payments include a forestry levy of GH¢15 million and property rates of GH¢2 million.

Beyond statutory payments, Newmont says it continues to support Ghana’s socio-economic development through investments in infrastructure, environmental sustainability and community initiatives.

In 2025, the company partnered with the government through the Ministry of Roads and Highways to rehabilitate the 46-kilometre Sunyani–Ntotroso–Akyerensua road, a key corridor linking the Bono and Ahafo regions.

The project is expected to improve road safety, enhance connectivity and boost economic activity in communities along the route.

Newmont also contributed to Ghana’s Tree for Life initiative, a national programme aimed at restoring degraded lands and promoting environmental sustainability.

Commenting on the company’s contribution, Country Manager Danquah Addo-Yobo said the company remains committed to transparency and responsible operations.

“Over the years we have been playing a leading role in the mining industry, in terms of our fiscal contribution, as well as our environmental stewardship and the value we generate for local businesses and communities.

“The promptness, accuracy, and public disclosure of our statutory payments underscore our strong and transparent governance principles.”

Newmont remains one of Ghana’s leading gold producers, with a continued focus on responsible resource development that delivers value for both local communities and the national economy.

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Beyond her hospital duties, Dogoe runs a community outreach program, educating parents on proper feeding practices, early medical care, and malnutrition prevention.

The prevalence of malnutrition among children aged 1 to 5 in the municipality is alarmingly high. A 2019 health facility-based study indicated stunting at 12.5% and wasting at 27.5%, significantly higher than the national averages of 17.5% and 6.8%, respectively. Factors contributing to malnutrition include short birth intervals, incomplete vaccination, parental unemployment, non-exclusive breastfeeding, and recurrent diarrhea.

In January 2026, the Nkwanta South Municipal Hospital launched its community nutritional outreach program. Through home visits, counselling, and continuous monitoring, Dogoe helps families take practical steps to protect children from the long-term effects of poor nutrition, including stunted growth and weakened immunity.

Among the many success stories is Farouk, a 13-year-old boy who had deteriorated to a “skeletal” state. His mother, Christiana Adwoa Bronya, a single parent, had struggled to manage his condition and was told it was spiritual. Through Dogoe’s guidance—offering nutrition education, feeding advice, and support with supplements—Farouk gradually regained his strength. Today, he is recovering and dreams of becoming a military officer.

A similar story unfolded in Barabo, where Mborla Bindupun, 13, suffered severe malnutrition after a prolonged illness linked to typhoid perforation. Dogoe provided nutrition management during and after her hospital stay. Mborla is now recovering and aspires to become a nurse. Her father, Kofi Kpebu, praised the hospital, the Church of Pentecost, and contributors who supported her recovery, while cautioning parents against delaying medical care in favor of spiritual explanations.

Speaking to Adom News, Nancy Dogoe highlighted that rising malnutrition in Nkwanta South is partly linked to recent unrest, which disrupted livelihoods, food security, and access to healthcare. She stressed that education is a long-term solution, noting that parents who understand malnutrition’s signs and prevention are better equipped to act early.

Dr. Prince Yeboah, clinical coordinator for the hospital, commended Dogoe and her team for their dedication, urging the government and international organizations to support facilities with fortified foods and other resources to reduce malnutrition and stunting.

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Organised by the 24-Hour Economy Authority in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ghana and the Ghana Seed Partnership, the programme seeks to create a modern, coordinated pipeline to ensure farmers have reliable access to improved seed varieties.

Head of Sector Strategy and Integration at the 24-Hour Economy Authority, Dr. Charles T. Nornoo, emphasised that a reliable and efficient seed delivery system is crucial to Ghana achieving its ambitious plans to expand irrigated farming along the Volta Basin.

The government aims to cultivate up to two million hectares of farmland, particularly along the Volta Basin and its tributaries, as part of a strategic push to modernise the agricultural sector and strengthen national food security.

The initiative will leverage the Volta Economic Corridor to provide infrastructure, irrigation systems and multimodal transport networks to facilitate production and market access.

“In addition to what we already have, we are looking at what exists along the Volta Basin and its tributaries,” Dr. Nornoo said.

“To do two million hectares of cultivation requires a lot of enablers, which we recognised at the very beginning.”

He highlighted that seed availability is one of the most critical factors underpinning the success of large-scale irrigation and multiple cropping cycles.

“You cannot think about doing two million hectares of planting and irrigation, which means multiple crops in a year and different types of seeds, and not think about how you are going to get that seed,” he said.

While Ghana has strong research capacity and sufficient planting materials, Dr. Nornoo noted that the country’s key challenge lies in ensuring that improved seeds reach farmers effectively.

“We do not have a problem with research. We do not have a problem with material to plant,” he said. “The problem we have is how to ensure that our farmers get the seed to be able to plant.”

The programme seeks to build a robust delivery pipeline connecting research institutions, seed multipliers, certification bodies, government agencies and farmer organisations.

“All of us gathered here have a role to play,” Dr. Nornoo told participants, stressing that the discussions will culminate in the formation of a task team tasked with implementing decisions and ensuring effective rollout.

Dr. Nornoo acknowledged the support of development partners, including the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the Dutch Embassy and the J.E.T. Project, which have helped lay the groundwork for Ghana’s seed system reforms.

“It is just the beginning of what we have to do,” he said, calling for recognition of these partners’ contributions.

Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy initiative, Goosie Tanoh, described the programme as a central component of the government’s 24H+ vision, highlighting the potential of a modern seed system to serve as core economic infrastructure.

Participants toured WACCI’s laboratories, early-generation seed facilities, certification labs and the Horticulture Innovation Hub, observing first-hand the scientific and institutional foundations Ghana already possesses.

“What we experienced this afternoon is not a side event; it is the front door to how Ghana will deliver the 24H+ vision on the ground,” Mr Tanoh said.

He stressed that Ghana’s challenge is not a lack of technical capability but rather the need for stronger coordination, clear institutional architecture, and effective execution.

The programme featured exhibitions from several public and private organisations, including the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana, the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, the government’s Feed Ghana Programme, Legacy Crop Improvement Centre, Integrated Water & Agricultural Development (Ghana) Limited, the Beela Project in partnership with TRAX, and the Ghana–Netherlands Seed Partnership.

“Private and public capabilities are not our constraint; architecture, coordination and execution are,” Mr Tanoh noted.

The Presidential Advisor outlined key performance targets for 2026, including:

• Activation of 200,000 jobs across priority sectors
• Integration of 500 SMEs into structured finance and industrial park ecosystems
• Mobilisation of over GH¢10 billion in capital commitments
• Operationalisation of the Volta Economic Corridor, including at least five agro-ecological or aquaculture parks and three industrial parks
• Establishment of three cooperative-owned production and processing enterprises

He stressed that achieving these objectives depends on an organised and well-financed seed system.

“When we discuss activating parks, corridors, export platforms and cooperative enterprises, we are essentially talking about reliable access to quality seed combined with anchor demand, finance and logistics,” Mr Tanoh said.

Mr Tanoh emphasised the need to protect intellectual property to incentivise innovation. Plant breeders, research institutions and private seed companies must be assured that their work is safeguarded through enforceable licensing agreements and clear legal frameworks governing plant breeders’ rights.

“Our aim is not to create barriers for farmers, but to balance affordable access to quality seed with clear rules on ownership, revenue sharing and technology transfer,” he said.

The Development Director at the British High Commission in Ghana, Terri Sarch, highlighted Ghana’s agricultural progress over the past two decades, noting that yields for crops such as Maize have doubled due to adoption of improved seed varieties.

She stressed that the adoption of certified seeds must increase if Ghana is to sustain productivity growth and adapt to climate change challenges, citing the need for early-maturing and drought-resilient varieties.

“Events like this remind us that progress is not driven by any single actor alone but through the combined efforts of farmers, researchers, policymakers, innovators and development partners like the UK and the Netherlands,” Ms Sarch said.

Mr Tanoh urged participants to move from discussion to practical action. He highlighted the formation of a Seed Systems Task Team with a 60-day mandate to present a detailed implementation roadmap and stressed that early-generation seed plans, regulatory reforms and pilot delivery models for maize and rice should be in place within 90 days.

“As we close Day One, we must return tomorrow not to recount problems but to design the seed system that will feed our parks, our cooperatives, our exporters and our urban consumers in a 24-hour economy,” he said.

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Robert Klah, Head of Public Events and Communications at Charterhouse, explained that Dope Nation did not submit entries for nomination, even though their works were captured within the awards’ monitoring system. Efforts to reach the duo for feedback and potential participation were unsuccessful.

Klah noted that initial contact was made with representatives linked to the group, and assurances of follow-up communication were given, but no response was received after subsequent engagements. Charterhouse acknowledged Dope Nation’s significant contributions to the music scene, particularly their hit songs and dance anthems, and emphasized that the awards scheme remains open to continuous engagement with all artistes.

Regarding Shatta Wale, organisers highlighted the artiste’s long-standing public position of disinterest in the awards, which explains his absence from the nominations. However, they remain open to future reconciliation, as has been the case with other artistes in previous editions.

Charterhouse affirmed that it maintains open communication with all artistes and hopes that ongoing dialogue will encourage broader participation in future editions of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

Watch video below:

Speaking on DaybreakHitz, Klah said several factors determine an artiste’s eligibility for a category, including submission timelines, category requirements, and the level of competition.

According to him, missing out on a nomination does not necessarily mean an artiste did not perform well during the year.

“For any reason an artiste couldn’t make it into a specific category, it could be one of many things. Sometimes it means the person just couldn’t make the cut in comparison to others in that space because the process is inherently competitive,” he explained.

Klah added that the evaluation process goes beyond local performance, with organisers considering a broader range of data before making decisions.

“When we say global view, we are not only looking at what happens here. We also look at streams, feedback from other regions, and airplay, among other elements,” he said.

He noted that while some may believe certain artistes deserve nominations in particular categories, the final decisions are made after reviewing all available data and evaluation criteria.

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“Go and speak for the farmers — we are behind you,” the chief told the lawmakers when a delegation of Minority MPs paid a courtesy call on him and the Offinso Queenmother, Nana Adwoa Afranewaa III, during the Akwasidae celebration on Sunday.

Led by the Minority Chief Whip and MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the delegation sought the blessings of the chiefs ahead of a week-long engagement with cocoa farmers starting Monday.

The MPs said the tour aims to listen directly to farmers and gather firsthand information on the impact of recent producer price reductions, widely described as “cocoa price haircuts.” They also plan to brief the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on the outcomes of the tour.

In receiving the delegation, Nana Dwamena Akenten II urged the MPs to address farmers’ concerns fairly, emphasizing that cocoa is the backbone of Ghana’s economy and that issues affecting farmers should be treated as national rather than partisan matters.

The chief also called on Parliament to enact laws protecting traditional leaders from public insults and unfounded allegations, stressing that respect for chieftaincy is essential for preserving Ghanaian cultural values and social harmony.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh said the Minority caucus considers it important to seek the blessings of traditional authorities before engaging farmers, noting the critical role chiefs play in the governance and development of cocoa communities.

“We are here to listen to the voice of the cocoa farmer,” he said, adding that concerns raised during the tour will be carried to Parliament to find solutions that improve farmers’ livelihoods.

The Ashanti Region tour follows a similar engagement in the Eastern Region, where farmers raised issues of declining incomes, rising production costs, and reductions in producer prices from over GH¢3,500 per bag to about GH¢2,500.

The Minority delegation, including MPs serving on committees covering economic affairs, agriculture, and cocoa matters, says the nationwide engagement will gather evidence-based feedback to support calls for policy review in the cocoa sector. The Ashanti tour will continue throughout the week, with MPs visiting several cocoa-producing communities to interact with farmers and document their concerns.

As the Catholic priest marks his 80th birthday on Friday, March 27, he is appealing to institutions, philanthropists and well-meaning individuals to support his efforts to care for street children and lepers in Ghana.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 3rd Ghana Development Awards in Accra, Father Campbell disclosed that caring for the vulnerable, especially those at the Weija Leprosarium, has become increasingly challenging due to limited resources.

“For the past few months it’s been difficult at Weija. So if there is any institution or anyone looking for an NGO to support, please come to me,” he appealed. “It’s not easy taking care of street children and the lepers. I have to feed them, clothe them, provide three meals a day and look after them, so I really need assistance because I want to give these children a home to live in.”

The Ghana Development Awards, organised by The Business Executive Group, recognises and celebrates individuals and institutions whose work contributes significantly to Ghana’s socio-economic development.

Born in Dublin in 1946, Father Campbell was ordained a Catholic priest in December 1970 and arrived in Ghana the following year as a missionary.

Over the years, he has served in various pastoral and humanitarian roles within the Catholic Church, dedicating much of his life to advocacy and support for marginalised groups.

As Founder and Executive Director of the Ghana Lepers Aid Committee, Father Campbell has led initiatives that have transformed the lives of hundreds of vulnerable people across the country.

Reflecting on his lifelong commitment to the poor, he acknowledged that some people struggle to understand his mission.

“Some people think I’m crazy because I’ve given all my life to taking care of the lepers. Others say I’m crazy because I’m taking care of street children. But I’m crazy for Christ. It is a blessing to take care of the poor,” he said.

As he celebrates his 80th birthday, Father Campbell is urging his admirers and the broader public to support the humanitarian cause he has championed for decades.

“Do you give back to God for all the blessings He gives you?” he asked. “For your social responsibility, don’t forget God.”

Meanwhile, Executive Director of Associates for Change, Leslie Casely-Hayford, underscored the importance of modelling positive change within communities as a pathway to Africa’s development.

According to her, strengthening moral education among young people is essential for national progress.

“I’ve realised that it’s not only academic education we should strive for,” she said. “Moral education helps children understand the values that can lift them out of poverty and equip them with the skills and development steps they need.”

The 2026 Ghana Development Awards honoured several individuals and institutions for their contributions to health, education, finance, environmental sustainability, vocational development and human rights protection across the country.

The arrests were carried out by officers from the Central North Regional Police Command following intelligence-led surveillance in the area.

According to police sources, the first group was travelling in a Mitsubishi Pajero with registration number GR 9864-19. Four suspects were found in the vehicle together with 15 goats and one sheep.

Not long after, officers stopped another vehicle, a Toyota Highlander with registration number GR 1623-16, carrying two suspects and 11 goats.

In total, police recovered 27 goats and one sheep believed to have been stolen from several communities. Of the animals retrieved, 14 were already dead while 13 were found alive.

Investigators say preliminary information from one of the suspects, who identified himself as Taakum, indicates that the group allegedly used chemically treated feed to weaken the animals before stealing them.

“The maize is mixed with a chemical which makes the goats weak after eating it, making it easier for them to be captured,” the suspect reportedly told investigators.

Police believe the Pajero vehicle had travelled through several communities, including Breman Asikuma, Kokoso, Amanfopong and Akyim Achiase, before heading towards Assin Brofoyedru. Officers eventually intercepted the vehicle along the Assin Bankyease road.

During the attempted arrest, police say an exchange of gunfire occurred between officers and the suspects in the Pajero vehicle. Two suspects and a police officer sustained injuries during the confrontation.

All three are currently receiving medical treatment at St. Francis Xavier Hospital.

Meanwhile, the second group travelling in the Highlander was arrested after officers noticed suspicious movements along the Assin Maso–Ochiso road.

The suspects, together with the vehicles and the recovered animals, remain in police custody as investigations continue.

Police say the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to tackle livestock theft in parts of the Central Region, an issue that has increasingly affected farmers and residents in several communities.

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At a brief ceremony held to hand over the chicks, the MCE explained that the programme is intended to empower families to venture into small-scale poultry farming and create additional sources of income.

Each beneficiary household received a number of Nkoko Nkitinkiti chicks, a hardy indigenous breed known for its ability to adapt to the local environment and reproduce quickly.

The MCE urged beneficiaries to take proper care of the birds to ensure the success of the programme and help expand poultry production within the municipality. He noted that the initiative is expected to improve household incomes while also increasing the supply of poultry products in local markets.

He therefore encouraged residents of Nkawkaw and surrounding communities to take full advantage of the opportunity.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Director of Agriculture and the Veterinary Officer indicated that measures had been put in place to manage the mortality rate of the chicks. They also appealed to beneficiaries to provide adequate care, shelter and proper feed to help the birds grow and reproduce successfully.

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So what is the Strait of Hormuz and why has it received prominence in the wake of the war?

The Strait of Hormuz, is a 21‑mile‑wide chokepoint between Iran and Oman which sits at the heart of a global economic storm.

While it might be tiny on a map, this waterway carries about 20%–30% of the world’s seaborne oil and liquefied natural gas.

Its strategic importance was always clear; today, it’s painfully visible as conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran disrupts traffic through this critical corridor.

From strategic artery to flashpoint

Before the war, the Strait was one of the world’s busiest energy routes, handling tens of millions of barrels of crude and sizeable volumes of LNG daily.

When shipping flows fall, already down 70% as carriers avoid the risks, the economic impact ripples outward.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has warned commercial vessels, and ship movements have plummeted, as insurers hike premiums and carriers reroute around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope.

These longer paths add weeks to voyages and significantly increase freight costs, affecting everything from fuel delivery to container shipping.

What happens if the Strait is closed?

A complete or prolonged closure, whether through threats, mines, or sustained hostilities, would be catastrophic:

Analysts have warned prices could spike above $100–$120 per barrel or higher if Hormuz remains blocked due to reduced supply.

Higher energy costs quickly feed into inflation, hurting consumers and businesses worldwide, and reducing economic growth.

The International Monetary Fund has noted that even a 10% oil price rise can heighten inflation and slow GDP growth.

Disruptions in oil, natural gas, and fertilizers, which also transit Hormuz, increase production costs across sectors like transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, raising food and goods prices globally.

Routes bypassing the strait add time and cost, squeezing margins for global logistics and prompting carriers to avoid the region altogether.

The effects won’t be limited to energy markets.

Major Asian importers like China, India, Japan, and South Korea rely heavily on Middle Eastern energy supplies.

Rising oil and gas costs there echo through export prices, industrial output, and household budgets.

For economies in African countries like Ghana, Latin America, and beyond, higher freight and commodity costs can slow growth, increase inflation, and complicate monetary policy just as nations are trying to recover from post‑pandemic pressures.

Beyond the immediate crisis, global leaders are confronting a stark reality: the vulnerability of energy supply chains tied to conflict zones, calling for diversification through renewables, nuclear, and regional pipelines that don’t depend on chokepoints, are getting louder.

The Strait of Hormuz is more than a narrow waterway; it is an artery of global commerce.

Its disruption underscores how interconnected modern economies are and how quickly geopolitical tensions can turn a strategic passage into a significantly narrow path to global crisis.

In a petition dated March 10, 2026, and addressed to the Executive Secretary of the commission, the group said its concerns are based on feedback gathered during a public forum it organised to collect citizens’ views on the rising cost of electricity.

According to the group, participants from various sectors of the economy expressed strong frustration over what they described as the growing financial pressure caused by recent tariff adjustments.

The petition, signed by Team Lead Dennis Miracles Aboagye, stated that the increasing cost of electricity is affecting both households and businesses. It noted that some small enterprises have reportedly scaled down operations or shut down entirely due to rising energy bills and unreliable power supply.

The group further indicated that a trend analysis of electricity tariffs between 2009 and 2024 shows a pattern of significant increases that have disproportionately affected vulnerable consumers.

According to the analysis, cumulative tariff hikes between 2009 and 2016 reached 294.6 percent, representing an average annual increase of 36.8 percent. In contrast, tariffs rose by 84.6 percent between 2017 and 2024, averaging about 10.57 percent annually.

However, the petition argued that adjustments in 2025 and 2026 appear to depart from the earlier moderate trend, intensifying financial pressure on consumers despite improvements in some macroeconomic indicators.

The forum cited the case of broadcast journalist Kojo Akoto Boateng of Joy FM, whose weekly electricity expenditure reportedly increased from GH¢225 in 2024 to GH¢449 in 2026.

According to the petition, the rise in electricity costs appears inconsistent with broader economic developments, including declining fuel prices, an improving exchange rate, and lower inflation.

The group also challenged claims that tariff adjustments are driven by conditions under the International Monetary Fund programme, arguing that IMF documents do not mandate automatic quarterly electricity tariff increases.

The People’s Forum is therefore urging PURC to suspend any planned tariff hikes at the end of the first quarter of 2026 and instead consider reducing the current effective cost of electricity.

It also expressed readiness to engage the commission in discussions aimed at ensuring electricity tariffs remain fair, transparent and affordable for Ghanaians.

Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, Mr. Ampem Nyarko explained that the discrepancies were uncovered during the audit process after confirmation responses exposed inflated figures submitted by a number of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Details in the report show that the Department of Urban Roads recorded the highest overstatement, with claims amounting to GH¢57.01 million. The Ministry of Transport followed with GH¢39.92 million, while the Department of Feeder Roads overstated claims totalling GH¢22.46 million.

Other institutions cited include the Ministry of Food and Agriculture with GH¢20.08 million and the Ghana Highways Authority with GH¢17.50 million. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration was also mentioned in the report, with overstated claims of GH¢2.68 million.

Mr. Ampem Nyarko noted that the findings expose persistent weaknesses in financial controls within the public sector and highlight the need for stricter monitoring systems to safeguard public resources.

In response to growing public calls for accountability, the Ministry of Finance (Ghana) has referred the Auditor-General’s findings to the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice for further legal action.

The referral, according to the ministry, is intended to facilitate possible criminal prosecutions against individuals found to have engaged in the misuse or misrepresentation of public funds.

“The Mahama administration refuses to accept this rotten system; in fact, we refuse to normalise waste. And we refuse to ask the Ghanaian people to pay for fraud,” the Deputy Minister told Parliament.

He also issued a warning to public officials, stressing that status or position will no longer shield anyone from accountability.

According to him, whether senior officials or junior staff members, anyone found to have collaborated with contractors or manipulated financial records will face legal consequences.

Government officials say the move represents a turning point in the country’s approach to financial discipline and accountability. Under the leadership of John Dramani Mahama, the administration has pledged to pursue stronger oversight and ensure that those responsible for financial irregularities are held accountable.

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As of March 2026, Ghana’s economy is once again navigating turbulent waters as escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East disrupt global energy markets.

With the conflict between US-led forces and Iran threatening the strategic Strait of Hormuz, global oil prices are spiking. This issue poses a complex challenge to the nation’s financial and economic landscape.

Ghana could theoretically benefit from higher crude prices, but because it relies on imported refined petroleum products, the negative effects—currency depreciation, imported inflation, and fiscal strain are more immediate and severe.

This analysis unpacks how this global shock is transmitting to Ghana’s local economy, examining the fiscal, monetary, and social impacts against the backdrop of the government’s 2026 budget and energy strategies.

1. The great Ghanaian balancing act: The ‘double-edged sword’ of being a marginal producer

Ghana occupies a unique and challenging position in the global oil ecosystem. Unlike its neighbour, Nigeria, which is a major exporter, or a landlocked nation with no production, Ghana is both an oil producer and a significant importer of refined products.

This dual status means a price surge brings both potential benefits and severe drawbacks.

On the production side, higher global crude prices should, in theory, be a boon. Ghana’s petroleum receipts are projected at GH¢13.6 billion for 2026, based on assumptions of steady prices and improved field efficiency.

An upward price shock could increase inflows into the Petroleum Holding Fund (PHF). However, the current benefit appears muted.

Ghana’s oil production is in a “recovery phase” after years of decline. Production dropped from 71 million barrels in 2019 to 48 million barrels in recent years due to natural field depletion, arbitration disputes, and the exit of major international oil companies.

Encouragingly, the government is targeting an additional 10,000 barrels per day in 2026, with renewed investor confidence bringing players like Shell and ExxonMobil back to the table.

Kosmos Energy has already successfully drilled the J-74 well, a new producer in the Jubilee field, which is expected to contribute over 10,000 barrels per day and help lift gross Jubilee production to nearly 70,000 bpd in early 2026.

Furthermore, agreements for $2 billion in new investment at the Jubilee field and $1.5 billion in the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) block have been signed, with plans to drill up to 20 new wells.

Despite these positive developments, the country is still not in a position to fully capitalise on the price windfall immediately because it takes time to bring new production online.

The downside, however, is far more immediate and potent. Ghana imports more than 60% of its refined petroleum needs.

Its two small refineries lack the capacity to meet domestic demand, with the Tema Oil Refinery only recently resuming crude processing after years of inactivity.

This reliance means that rising global crude prices directly translate into more expensive imports of petrol, diesel, and LPG, placing immense strain on the economy.

2. The Cedi at the crosshairs: Currency and inflationary pressures

Perhaps the most immediate and damaging impact is the symbiotic relationship between oil prices and the Ghanaian Cedi. Historically, when global uncertainty rises, investors flock to the US dollar as a safe-haven asset.

This capital flight puts pressure on emerging market currencies. Simultaneously, importers require more dollars to purchase now more expensive fuel, increasing demand for the greenback and exacerbating the currency’s decline.

This cycle poses a clear and present threat. Before the recent geopolitical spike, the Cedi had shown remarkable strength, appreciating by over 35% in the 12 months leading to January 2026.

However, the current conflict threatens to reverse these gains. As the Cedi weakens, the cost of importing the same volume of fuel skyrockets, creating a vicious cycle of currency depreciation feeding into higher fuel prices, which in turn increases demand for dollars.

This pass-through effect is the primary mechanism by which global oil prices cause domestic imported inflation. The good news is that Ghana’s inflation rate fell sharply to 3.3% in February 2026, the lowest level since 1999.

However, this data predates the full impact of the current oil price spike. The Bank of Ghana, which has worked hard to stabilise the economy, may be forced to adopt a hawkish stance.

To combat imported inflation and prevent a speculative slide of the Cedi, the central bank may need to intervene in the forex market or consider hiking interest rates, which would make borrowing more expensive for businesses and stifle growth.

3. Fiscal dilemmas: Subsidies, sovereign funds, and stranded policy

The price shock severely complicates Ghana’s fiscal management, forcing the government into difficult trade-offs just months after presenting its 2026 “Resetting for Growth” budget.

The subsidy debate and energy sector levies

As pump prices climb, a cost-of-living crisis looms, reigniting the debate on fuel subsidies. While some analysts suggest leveraging the Ghana Petroleum Funds (GPFs) or providing temporary tax relief, this path is fraught with risk.

The government already provides a heavily subsidised premix fuel for fisherfolk to protect livelihoods, a programme that has recently faced scrutiny over the mismanagement of its community development fund. Expanding subsidies more broadly would be a significant fiscal risk.

The energy sector deficit and legacy debt

Ghana’s energy sector is already budgeted to receive a massive allocation in 2026, with GH¢15.2 billion earmarked for sector shortfall payments and an additional GH¢4.8 billion to clear legacy debts owed to Independent Power Producers.

The government has made strides in addressing the sector’s financial viability, recently repaying a $500 million guarantee to the World Bank for energy reforms and settling outstanding gas invoices of about $500 million.

However, higher fuel import costs will widen the current shortfall. If the government does not pass the full cost to consumers, it will have to increase subsidies, diverting funds from other critical areas such as education and healthcare, which could lead to further economic challenges.

If it does pass on the cost, it risks sparking public discontent, particularly among low-income households who may struggle to afford the increased prices for essential services.

4. Power generation and the ‘gas switch’ strategy

The government’s 2026 energy strategy hinges on a critical assumption: transitioning to domestic natural gas for the majority of power generation to insulate the country from volatile global prices.

The construction of a new state-owned 1,200-megawatt power plant is central to this “Gas-to-Power” transformation policy, which is expected to cut power generation costs by at least 75% and conserve foreign exchange.

The plan relies on increased domestic gas output, with gas supply from the Sankofa Field increasing by 30–40 million standard cubic feet and a second gas processing plant (GPP2) in the works.

The current crisis exposes the fragility of this strategy. If domestic gas production falls short, requiring “topping up” with imported fuel, the cost of electricity will soar.

Furthermore, the conflict in the Middle East raises concerns about the safety of global LNG supplies, which would further drive up the cost of any needed imports. A failure to achieve energy independence could transform a temporary fuel price shock into a prolonged electricity tariff hike.

5. The squeeze on households and businesses

Ultimately, the impact of rising oil prices filters down to the average Ghanaian. Ghana relies on road transportation for most of its goods.

· Transportation costs: Higher diesel prices directly increase fares for trotros and taxis, eating into disposable incomes.

· Cost of living: As transport costs rise, the price of food and manufactured goods follows. While food inflation eased to 2.4% in February 2026, this relief may be temporary if transport costs surge.

· Economic activity: To combat inflation, the Bank of Ghana may be forced to keep the monetary policy rate higher for longer. Although interest rates have fallen to between 18% and 20%, any reversal could stifle the private sector credit growth needed for job creation, which is crucial for economic recovery and stability in the face of ongoing inflationary pressures.

6. Looking ahead: Vulnerability and the path to resilience

The current crisis underscores a fundamental truth: Ghana’s economy remains acutely vulnerable to external shocks due to structural weaknesses.

While the government has made strides in macroeconomic stabilisation—cutting debt, overseeing a recent Cedi appreciation, and building reserves to $13.8 billion (covering 5.7 months of imports) —these gains are now under threat.

In the short term, Ghanaians should prepare for steeper fuel prices. In the medium to long term, this crisis serves as a concrete example of the urgent need for energy sovereignty. The solution is twofold:

1. Refining capacity and regional trade: The CEO of Ghana’s National Petroleum Authority noted that Ghana will continue relying on imports.

To that end, Ghana is committing to importing fuel from the Dangote Refinery in Nigeria. Given the proximity, this partnership could reduce the cost of fuel delivered to Ghana, provided there is macroeconomic stability and exchange rate alignment between the Cedi and the Naira.

2. Renewable investment: Diversifying the energy mix is a strategic economic imperative.

Installed solar capacity now stands at 250 megawatts (5% of generation), with a 200 MW solar project at the Dawa Industrial Zone and mini-grids under development, backed by a $100 million commitment from the African Development Bank.

Ghana is currently navigating a delicate situation. It must balance safeguarding its citizens from unaffordable fuel prices and mitigating the fiscal risk of unsustainable subsidies, all while facing threats to its foreign reserves and currency from forces thousands of miles away.

The path to resilience lies in accelerating the transition to energy independence through gas utilisation, regional partnerships, like with Dangote, and renewable energy investment.

Author: A student of finance and economics Tel: 0205203340 Email: kwasia433@gmail.com

Earlier reports suggested that Mr. Aidoo returned the vehicle to COCOBOD’s headquarters in Accra after being informed that the Bureau of National Investigations could be engaged to retrieve it.

However, Mr. Boafo explained that COCOBOD has an internal policy allowing senior officials to purchase official vehicles after using them for a specified period.

Speaking on Dwaso Nsem on Adom FM, he stated that after using a vehicle for at least two years, an official can apply to purchase it upon retirement, subject to board approval.

According to him, the vehicle in question was acquired in 2019, and by the time Mr. Aidoo left office in 2025, he had met the requirement to apply for its purchase under the policy.

“You can write to HR to submit to the board to sell the car to you after they value it,” he explained.

Mr. Boafo indicated that the former CEO had formally written to the Human Resources department requesting that the vehicle be valued for purchase and submitted to the board for approval.

However, he said there was no feedback from the board regarding the valuation or possible sale of the car.

“But I learnt that despite writing to HR, there was no response from the board regarding the price,” he stated.

He added that after waiting for some time without feedback, Mr. Aidoo eventually decided to return the vehicle.

“After waiting for a long time, he decided to return the car, probably because he felt they didn’t want to sell the car to him,” Mr. Boafo said.

Meanwhile, COCOBOD is undergoing a thorough review to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of the cocoa sector, following a directive by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson in February 2026.

The Office of the Attorney General has also been directed to carry out a concurrent forensic audit and criminal investigation into COCOBOD’s activities over the past eight years to uncover any financial irregularities and strengthen oversight within the sector.

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He said the figure represents an increase from the GH₵20.4 billion recorded at the end of 2024, reflecting improved performance of many SSNIT investments and ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability and strategies to improve underperforming assets.

Mr Biney disclosed this during a stakeholder forum organised by SSNIT in partnership with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) in Wa on Monday to educate and sensitise workers on the importance of pension contributions.

The forum also formed part of a nationwide campaign aimed at informing members of organised labour about SSNIT’s operations and obtaining feedback from them as key stakeholders of the scheme to guide future reforms.

Mr Biney noted: “A lot more of our investments are doing well, and that accounts for the growth from GH₵20.4 billion in 2024 to over GH₵25 billion at the end of 2025.”

He indicated, for instance, that Labadi Beach Hotel generated a profit of about GH₵77 million in 2025, while La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, which previously recorded losses, posted an audited profit of GH₵1.7 million in 2025.

Mr Biney said SSNIT was focusing on improving service delivery, accessibility, and convenience for contributors and pensioners through the revitalisation of its digital channels and the establishment of virtual branches.

Other initiatives, he mentioned, include the implementation of a “co-location” strategy, which allows SSNIT to operate within selected banking halls to extend its services to areas where it does not have physical offices.

“As part of the strategy to make our services more accessible and convenient, you can engage with us in a much easier way than in the past.

“Our digital channels and virtual branch provide you the opportunity to interact with us irrespective of time and location because we serve you 24/7,” Mr Biney explained.

He encouraged members of organised labour in both the public and private sectors to contribute actively to the scheme, describing SSNIT as a collective national asset designed to secure the future of Ghanaian workers.

Mr Joshua Ansah, Secretary-General of the TUC, said the forum served as an important platform for advocacy and education on the benefits of the SSNIT pension scheme and the need for every worker in Ghana to contribute.

He urged both formal and informal sector workers to enrol on the SSNIT scheme and contribute regularly to secure their future, emphasising that pension contributions were essential for ensuring financial security and dignity after retirement.

“Once you are working or earning an income, you must think about your future, and belonging to SSNIT is one of the ways to guarantee that future,” Mr Ansah said.

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He made the remarks during a panel discussion on Ghana at 69 and strategies to enhance national food self-sufficiency on JoyNews on Monday, March 9.

“We know our consumption; we only produce five to six per cent of what we consume when it comes to our poultry products, and that is why we launched the Nkoko Nkitinkiti project, where we are making sure that there are enough poultry products, hence the importation will stop,” he said.

“We know that once everything comes into full force, we are going to reduce the import of poultry products.”

The Deputy Minister revealed that the distribution of birds under the programme is currently underway across the country.

“Now, we have started distributing the birds. We have done about five or six regions. Eight regions are in the breeding stage, and hopefully, within three months, all the regions will have gotten it, and that is over three million birds we are distributing,” he stated.

According to recent government data, Ghana currently spends between US$300 million and US$400 million annually on imported poultry meat and related products, reflecting the country’s heavy reliance on frozen chicken and other poultry products from overseas suppliers.

The Nkoko Nkitinkiti programme is a flagship poultry development initiative introduced by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as part of its Feed Ghana agenda to transform the agricultural value chain and strengthen food security.

Launched in late 2025 by John Dramani Mahama, the project is designed to empower thousands of households and poultry farmers nationwide.

Under the initiative, the government plans to distribute millions of birds, support local hatcheries and feed production, and develop market linkages that will gradually shift production from informal backyard operations to a more organised and commercialised sector.

According to the Deputy Minister, the policy is expected to begin reducing poultry imports in the near future.

“When you look at some of these policies that we have introduced, hopefully by the end of this year, we should see some amount of decrease in the importation of some of these poultry products we have imported in the past years. We know and hope and pray that it will stop the importation of poultry products along the line,” he said on the show.

Speaking on Newsfile on JoyNews on Saturday, March 7, the minister said the decision was initiated by President John Dramani Mahama shortly after the administration assumed office, following concerns about the rising cost and the physical strain the traditional parade placed on participants.

According to Mr Kwakye Ofosu, as preparations for the annual celebration of Ghana’s independence from United Kingdom approached, the President questioned whether the elaborate national parade remained justified given the financial burden and health risks associated with the event.

“The feedback has been great,” he said. “When we first came to power and the independence celebrations were inching closer, the President just called us one day and said, ‘Is it really worth all this pageantry given the cost?’”

Beyond the financial implications, the minister explained that the government also considered the safety and welfare of participants, particularly schoolchildren and military personnel who typically spend long hours standing under the sun during rehearsals and the main parade.

“There was also the sheer stress that we put on schoolchildren and military officers,” he noted. “We have had instances where some of the military officers and schoolchildren have passed out because they had to stand in the sun for several hours.”

He acknowledged that even under the previous administration led by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), efforts had been made to reduce the strain on participants.

One such measure involved allowing parade contingents to arrive only when it was time for them to march, rather than remain standing throughout the entire ceremony.

Despite those adjustments, the government still faced concerns about the rising cost of the celebrations. Mr Kwakye Ofosu said President Mahama subsequently requested detailed figures on how much previous Independence Day events had cost the state.

According to him, the previous NPP administration rotated the national celebration among several regional capitals, including Tamale, Ho and Sunyani.

He disclosed that the most recent celebration under the previous government cost approximately GH¢15 million.

“When the President asked for what it would cost at the Independence Square, because it is a bigger venue and you would need more numbers, the estimated cost rose even further,” he explained.

The minister said a typical parade at the square would require about 60 contingents, each made up of men and women drawn from the security services and schools.

“Ordinarily, you will need 60 contingents of men and women each. That right away gives you about 3,600 people marching on the day, so you have to take care of their transportation, feeding and all the costs that come with it,” he said.

With those logistical demands, the projected cost of hosting the celebration at Independence Square was estimated at nearly GH¢20 million.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu said the President rejected the proposal, insisting that the government could not justify spending such an amount on the ceremony.

“So the President said he was not going to have any of this,” he noted.

Instead, the government opted to hold a scaled-down event at the forecourt of the presidency at Jubilee House.

He described the venue as “a vast, sprawling complex” with sufficient space to host a smaller but dignified ceremony.

Under the revised arrangement, the number of participants was drastically reduced to about 300, with attendance limited largely to invited guests.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged that this approach inevitably reduced public participation compared with the traditional celebrations held at Independence Square or in regional capitals, where large crowds typically gather.

“That is a regrettable effect of having to cut down,” he admitted. “At the Independence Square or regional capitals, people can come in their numbers and support the process.”

However, he maintained that the decision ultimately served the national interest, noting that the government had been able to reduce the cost of the celebration to about GH¢1.5 million.

“When everything was done and said, we cut down the budget by about 90 per cent,” he said.

According to the minister, the scaled-down celebration cost roughly GH¢1.5 million last year, and the same budgetary allocation has been maintained for this year’s event.

But here is the question no one wants to ask: Are you eating real food… or something dangerously altered?

Because what happens before that product reaches your hands may shock you.

Across parts of Africa, food adulteration has quietly become an open secret. For economic gain, some sellers mix cheaper substitutes into popular staples to increase volume and profit. Palm oil is sometimes mixed with dyes to deepen its red colour. Ground egusi may be blended with cheaper flours like cassava. Plantain flour can be diluted with lower-cost alternatives. Old stock may be re-dried, reground, and mixed with new batches.

The goal is simple: stretch the product, cut losses, maximise earnings. Now, here is where it becomes concerning for those of us abroad.

Many African stores in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom rely on bulk suppliers back home. These consolidators purchase goods from open markets or rural producers, repackage them, and ship them overseas. Once they arrive, some stores remove the original packaging, if any existed and repackage the products under their own brand names.

That is where traceability disappears. In countries like the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires imported food products to be traceable to a registered foreign facility. Proper labelling should include:

• Manufacturer name and address
• Production and expiry dates
• Batch numbers
• Nutritional information
• Airtight, tamper-evident packaging

Similarly, the Food Standards Agency in the UK enforces strict food safety standards. Canada follows comparable regulations through federal inspection systems.

But many rebranded products sold in some African stores do not meet these standards. Instead, what you may find are:

• Loose nylon pouches
• Non-airtight plastic bags
• No manufacturer listed
• No batch numbers
• No expiry dates
• No traceable origin

If a recall becomes necessary, there is no clear chain back to the original source. Accountability vanishes.

The Chemical Risk

Beyond mixing cheaper ingredients, improper chemical use raises deeper health concerns.

In agricultural storage, certain pesticides are legally approved when used correctly, typically applied outside sealed layers of packaging. However, reports and videos circulating online suggest misuse, including applying strong chemicals directly to food storage environments in unsafe ways.https://www.youtube.com/embed/19cnfKkAvHg

Improper pesticide exposure can pose serious health risks, particularly for children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses.

For people managing diabetes, adulterated plantain flour mixed with higher-glycemic substitutes can cause unexpected blood sugar spikes. Consumers believe they are eating one thing their bodies may be processing another.

The
Bigger Problem: Store Rebranding

An increasing trend is stores acting as unofficial manufacturers. Bulk items arrive in sacks. They are divided into smaller pouches. A store label is added. The original producer’s identity disappears.

Without original manufacturer information, consumers cannot verify:

• Whether the product was made in a certified facility
• Whether it passed quality inspection
• Whether it can be traced during contamination
• Whether it meets export compliance standards

This is not an attack on African stores. Many operate honestly and responsibly. But the system leaves room for abuse,e and consumers often assume trust where verification is absent.

How
to Protect Yourself

If you buy African staples abroad, consider these precautions:

1. Buy whole seeds when possible. Purchase whole egusi instead of pre-ground. Grind it yourself.
2. Check for original manufacturer packaging. Avoid store-branded repackaging when the source is unclear.
3. Look for proper labelling. Manufacturer address, batch number, expiry date, and nutritional panel.
4. Ensure airtight, tamper-evident seals.
5. Be cautious with unusually bright colours or altered textures.
6. Ask questions. A reputable store should be able to explain sourcing.

Consumers drive change. When people refuse poorly labelled products, stores are forced to improve standards.

This Is About Health — Not Fear

Food connects the diaspora to culture, family, and identity. But nostalgia should not override safety.

The uncomfortable truth is this: if you cannot trace where your food came from, you cannot fully trust what is inside it. And when it comes to what you feed your children, your spouse, or yourself,f uncertainty is not good enough.

Before your next purchase, pause and look closely. Because the question remains:

Can you say with certainty that what
you are eating is exactly what it claims to be?

The bill has been referred to the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Interior for consideration and subsequent passage.

If approved, the legislation will introduce a structured legal framework enabling courts to impose community-based penalties for minor offences, rather than custodial sentences.

The move is aimed at reducing prison overcrowding while ensuring that offenders contribute positively to society.

Presenting the bill on the floor of Parliament, the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, said the reform is intended to address congestion in the country’s prisons and ease the financial burden on the state.

“People who commit minor offences should rather be given non-custodial sentences instead of caging them when we do not even have the capacity to feed and maintain them,” he told the House.

According to the Minister, the proposed framework will allow offenders guilty of petty crimes to undertake community service that benefits society, rather than serving time behind bars.

“It is basically to help us set up a framework to ensure that we decongest our prisons. We should not simply sentence people for stealing bananas or plantains and put them in prison.

“Instead, we can get them to do community service that enhances community unity and prevents the repetition of minor offences,” he explained.

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Amoah described the development as an evolving trend, noting that pricing may vary depending on location and competitive strategies.

His comments follow the National Petroleum Authority’s (NPA) directive to scrap discounted fuel prices across the downstream petroleum sector, instructing all OMCs and LPG marketing companies to cease selective price reductions at designated retail outlets. The directive takes effect from March 16, 2026.

Mr. Amoah explained that while the Unified Petroleum Price Fund (UPPF) aims to ensure uniform fuel prices nationwide, market competition can sometimes benefit consumers.

He, however, cautioned that the core objective of the UPPF should not be undermined, even as competition shapes pricing dynamics.

“There is a new trend in price differentials due to ongoing competition in the market. Prices can vary depending on the location. Oil Marketing Companies are experiencing losses as consumers benefit from these price fluctuations. I believe the National Petroleum Authority is addressing this issue to enforce a uniform pricing system across Ghana. According to regulations, prices cannot be increased without approval during a set period,” he said.

“While I think the NPA should maintain the current system, the argument for the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund becomes problematic if OMCs sell fuel at different prices in various regions. However, the core objective of fair pricing shouldn’t be overlooked. Personally, I believe competition is beneficial, as it can lead to better prices for consumers,” he added.

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The demonstration took place at the premises of Newmont Ahafo South Mines, where some residents told Adom News that, although they have been resettled due to the company’s mining activities, they have not received their feeding allowances for some time.

According to the protesters, the company has offered only 9 cedis per household, which they described as an insult, insisting that they should receive 200 cedis per household for daily feeding. The residents warned that they would escalate their demonstrations if the company fails to address their concerns.

In response, Hafiz Dauda, the District Chief Executive for Asutifi North, together with DCOP James Annor, the Ahafo Regional Police Commander, engaged the protesters, who were dressed in red and black.

They announced that the Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council, led by the Regional Minister, will convene a meeting involving the company, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and representatives of the residents to resolve the issue.

The officials also urged the protesters to adhere to the guidelines for demonstrations to avoid any legal violations.

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Oppong Nkrumah, who serves as Ranking Member on Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, made the remarks during an interaction with farmers at Akyekrom, a cocoa-producing community in his constituency.

The meeting was part of a broader Minority Caucus tour of farming communities across the Eastern Region.

The engagement follows a recent reduction in cocoa producer prices — a decision that has sparked frustration among farmers in several growing areas.

While John Dramani Mahama and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) attributed the adjustment to falling global cocoa prices and financial strain within the sector, lawmakers from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) argue that the move places undue hardship on farmers already grappling with rising production costs and household expenses.

Speaking to farmers in Akyekrom, Oppong Nkrumah said he had earlier met some privately, where concerns were raised about pricing levels and delays in payment. The latest visit, he explained, was intended to formally gather feedback, observe conditions firsthand, and assure producers that their grievances would be forcefully pursued in Parliament.

Some farmers indicated that public announcements about the release of funds had not translated into actual payments at the farm gate, with several claiming they were yet to receive monies they had been informed were disbursed.

Beyond cocoa, others pointed to broader economic pressures, including unsold rice stockpiles, which they linked to increased rice imports affecting local demand.

In response, Oppong Nkrumah assured the gathering that the Minority Caucus would demand accountability from government and seek clarity on cocoa payments and related policy measures.

He emphasized that the effort transcends short-term politics and is aimed at protecting livelihoods within the cocoa value chain.

“Even if it takes years, we shall fight for what is due you,” he told the farmers, drawing applause.

The Minority delegation said it will sustain its outreach across cocoa-growing districts and escalate concerns to the national level, arguing that cocoa farmers remain pivotal to Ghana’s economic resilience and deserve stable pricing, prompt payments, and policies that protect their incomes.

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The Director of Programmes and Operations at the CDD-Ghana, Frederick Adu-Gyamfi, said the bill had been submitted to the Attorney-General for study and onward submission to Parliament with government support.

“The bill is designed to address gaps in the political system and help tackle the growing influences of monetisation and vote-buying, undermining the integrity of the nation’s electoral systems,” he said.

Mr Adu-Gyamfi told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview on the sidelines of a stakeholder forum on the bill in Sunyani that the bill promotes transparency and accountability in the financing of political party activities and campaigns.

The CDD-Ghana, in collaboration with the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), organised the forum to deepen public understanding and collect views and feedback to fine-tune the bill.

Key provisions in the bill include establishing an independent electoral financing and enforcement authority, introducing expenditure ceilings for political campaigns, and defining a clear campaign period for political activities.

Challenges

Mr Adu-Gyamfi said the bill was intended to address major challenges in the nation’s political financing system and called for public support for its passage into law.

The Bono Regional Director of the NCCE, Cynthia Anima Boadu, acknowledged the progress made under the Fourth Republic.

She, however, warned that “rising cost of political competition threatens democratic integrity.”

Ms Boadu said there was a need for a comprehensive legal framework to regulate political campaign activities and financing.

She expressed regret that political campaign activities had increasingly been characterised by excessive spending and limited transparency into funding sources.

Study

A 2018 study conducted by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) in partnership with CDD-Ghana showed that the cost of contesting a parliamentary election in Ghana rose by 59 percent between 2012 and 2016, with candidates spending on average US$85,000.

Ms Boadu also referenced a 2020 follow-up study by CDD-Ghana, supported by Adam Smith International (ASI), which reported a significant increase in campaign expenditure to about GH¢4 million, including funds used to “nurture” constituencies.

“The study reveals further that a substantial portion of political campaign financing comes from opaque and potentially illicit sources, some allegedly linked to organised crime,” she stated.

Ms Boadu expressed concern about the weak enforcement of the 1992 Constitution and the Political Parties Act, 2000 (Act 574), which provided a framework for regulating political financing.

“The absence of defined spending limits, donation caps, and strict disclosure requirements allows unreported and illicit funds to influence political campaign activities in the country,” she observed.

She, therefore, called for comprehensive campaign finance reforms to protect the nation’s electoral integrity, curb corruption, and enhance transparency in democratic processes.

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Speaking to Adom News while touring selected polling stations on Tuesday, Tanko Computer said feedback from the areas he had monitored suggested strong backing for the NDC candidate.

“We will hand the NPP a defeat they will never forget,” he declared, expressing confidence that the outcome would favour his party despite what he described as generally low voter turnout.

According to him, early observations indicate that the NDC maintains a comfortable edge. He also dismissed concerns about the independent candidate, Umaru Sanda Mohammed, a former NDC member, insisting that his participation poses no significant challenge to the party’s prospects.

Meanwhile, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary candidate, Baba Ali Yussif, attributed the slow turnout to the Ramadan period.

He noted that many Muslim voters may choose to cast their ballots later in the day and expressed strong optimism about his chances at the polls.

Both camps remain upbeat as voting continues across the constituency, with party officials closely monitoring developments at various polling stations.

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Speaking with Adom News while monitoring the elections, Tanko Computer noted that feedback from various areas he visited indicates a strong showing for the NDC.

Although voter turnout is currently low, he believes the odds are in their favor.

He also stated that the Independent Candidate, Umaru Sanda Mohammed, who previously defected from the NDC, poses no threat to their campaign.

On the other hand, the NPP parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso East by-election, Baba Ali Yussif, suggested that the low turnout is due to Ramadan and expressed his expectation that participation would increase later in the day.

He remains confident about his chances of winning the elections.

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• Bokpin warns Ghana faces major oil price shock from US–Israel strikes on Iran

Speaking on Tuesday on the Joy Super Morning Show, Prof. Bokpin said any major disruption to oil supplies in the Middle East would quickly affect Ghanaian consumers through higher fuel, transport, and commodity prices.

“If the world price of crude should go up, chances are that the oil marketing companies would adjust the price upwards,” he said.

“And once fuel prices go up, transportation costs will rise and feed into inflation.”

The professor, who teaches finance and economics at the University of Ghana, was reacting to escalating military action involving the United States and Israel against Iran, which has entered its fourth day.

The strikes, which began on February 28, reportedly targeted Iran’s military and nuclear facilities. In response, Iranian authorities have threatened large-scale retaliation and warned of possible attacks on shipping routes.

Of particular concern is the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway through which a significant portion of the world’s crude oil supply passes.

Iran has hinted at restricting access to the route, raising fears of supply shortages.

Prof. Bokpin said Ghana’s recent relative stability in the cedi would offer little protection if international oil prices jump sharply.

“The pass-through effect from crude prices to pump prices in Ghana is very strong,” he explained. “So even if the exchange rate is doing well, it may not be enough to cushion consumers.”

He added that uncertainty surrounding the conflict was already unsettling global markets.

“Nobody prefers uncertainty,” he said. “Businesses, planners, and governments need stability to function. What we are seeing now makes long-term planning difficult.”

Meanwhile, the OPEC group of oil-producing countries is expected to meet to consider increasing production in a bid to contain price pressures. However, analysts say any intervention may come too late to prevent short-term spikes if supply routes are disrupted.

For Ghana, the stakes are high. Fuel price increases have historically been among the most politically sensitive economic issues, often leading to transport fare hikes and higher food prices across the country.

With the economy still recovering under the ongoing support programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Prof. Bokpin warned that another external shock could slow down the fragile recovery.

“An oil price shock at this time will put pressure on households and businesses,” he noted. “It will also complicate the government’s efforts to stabilise the economy.”

He urged policymakers to closely monitor developments and prepare contingency measures to cushion vulnerable consumers if global prices rise sharply in the coming days.

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Speaking on The LTS Show on Joy News, the group shared how their journey began in Kumasi.

“We are based in Kumasi. Rashad and Champagne grew up together. I joined them during work orientation, and we quickly developed a connection. Whenever the three of us are together, the energy is contagious. You cannot help but laugh and have fun,” Ishfaq recounted.

The group’s first experiments with content started on YouTube.

“Rashad and I had talked about creating videos just for fun. So we started creating content on YouTube. But it didn’t blow up the way we imagined,” Champagne revealed.

The breakthrough came when the group shifted focus to TikTok and experimented with food content.

“Ishfaq brought the idea of a food challenge. We saw what other people were doing and thought we could join the trend too, but make ours unique. That’s how the 3-2-1 eating challenge started,” Rashad narrated.

Despite the chemistry, creating content as a group was far from easy. All three have full-time jobs, which made scheduling almost impossible.

“Sometimes we had to meet at midnight, or even past one in the morning,” Rashad recalled. “Everyone is tired, hungry, or not in the mood, but we had to push through to make something worth watching,” he continued.

Equipment and logistics added to the struggle. Their very first tripod had a broken leg, forcing them to improvise.

“Our first tripod had a broken leg. We had to balance it on a stone and hope it wouldn’t fall. Every shoot became a test of patience and creativity. It taught us that content creation is as much about problem-solving as it is about ideas,” Champagne disclosed.

After months of experimenting and pushing through obstacles, the effort paid off.

“I think on our first video, it was just a bottle flip. It did better than most of our other videos, but it didn’t really blow up until our third eating challenge which was the 3-2-1. That’s when everything changed. Under 24 hours we hit a million views on TikTok,” Ishfaq shared.

“As Ishfaq said, on our third eating challenge, we reached a million views, then the numbers just kept climbing. Followers started growing, people began noticing us, and many even went to check out our YouTube channel once they realized we were there too,” Champagne added.

Speaking on their success, the team attributed much of their growth to collaboration and shared responsibility.

“Being a group has made it possible for us to handle the workload and stay consistent. Rashad is great at planning, Ishfaq brings fresh ideas, and I focus on execution. When one of us is low on energy, the other two lift them up. That balance and support system has been key to keeping our content original, timely, and engaging,” Champagne explained.

Rashad also added that their success wasn’t just about the ideas, but how they brought them to life.

“Honestly, it’s not the food challenge itself that makes our content stand out. It’s the energy, the vibe, and the authenticity we put into it. Anyone can copy a trend, but they can’t replicate the way we make it feel real and fun.

“That’s what keeps people watching and coming back. There is nothing wrong with copying; what matters is how uniquely you execute yours. Anyone can copy a trend; we’re not against that. Copying is allowed, but it has to be done strategically,” Rashad expanded.

As a group, comparisons and criticism are inevitable, but the trio has learned to handle them with focus and maturity.

“One thing my pastor always preaches is to be intentional about everything. In any group or even individually, you’ll face ego, pride, jealousy, and selfishness. People will compare you to others, make comments, or even try to pull you down. You have to accept that as part of the journey and stay focused on your goals,” Rashad highlighted.

“When criticism or comparisons come, it doesn’t overwhelm one person. We support each other, weigh feedback, and stay on course. Being a group means no one carries the burden alone; it’s teamwork, understanding, and conviction that keep us moving forward,” Champagne further emphasized.

Today, the journey that began with a broken tripod and late-night shoots has transformed into a full-fledged creative enterprise.

Though TikTok itself doesn’t pay them directly, the trio now works with brands and runs sponsored content, turning their passion into a sustainable business while still managing their 9-to-5 jobs.

Their story proves that group content creation is not only possible but can thrive with dedication, creativity, and teamwork.

Delivering the 2026 State of the Nation Address in Parliament, the President said the initiative is a central pillar of the government’s broader agricultural transformation agenda.

He explained that Ghana’s long-standing reliance on rainfall has left farmers vulnerable to erratic weather patterns and climate shocks, making irrigation a strategic necessity.

“The Feed Ghana Programme is firmly anchored on irrigation for world-class agricultural production. Government is deliberately shifting our agriculture from rain-fed dependence to irrigation-based farming to support continuous production and strengthen climate resilience,” he stated.

According to President Mahama, the two proposed mega dams will play a decisive role in stabilising water supply in key farming zones.

“These mega dams will provide a reliable water supply to thousands of farming communities, enabling continuous cultivation throughout the year. They are central to our vision of modernising agriculture and making it more climate-resilient,” he said.

Alongside the new projects, eight existing irrigation dams are being rehabilitated to restore their efficiency and maximise output. The President emphasised that upgrading current infrastructure is just as important as constructing new systems.

“Rehabilitating these dams ensures that our current infrastructure works at its full potential. It is part of a broader effort to modernise irrigation and secure sustainable agricultural growth,” he noted, adding that the upgrades will improve storage capacity, streamline water distribution, and make better use of available resources.

The programme also includes drilling 250 solar-powered boreholes targeted at farming communities and schools across the Northern Belt and Brong Ahafo regions, as well as the rehabilitation of major irrigation schemes such as Kpong and Aveyime.

In addition, new inland valleys spanning more than 1,300 hectares are being developed to boost rice production.

President Mahama said the irrigation expansion is designed not only to strengthen food security but also to generate employment and protect farmers against the growing threats of climate variability, ultimately positioning agriculture as a year-round engine of growth.

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The initiative, which began last week, is ongoing across all 16 regions to ensure that cash transfers reach their intended beneficiaries.

Teams drawn from the Ministry and its partner institutions are visiting selected payment centres to supervise the disbursement process, interact directly with beneficiaries, and gather first-hand feedback on service delivery.

“We are engaging district authorities and community leaders to improve coordination and strengthen the overall implementation of the LEAP programme,” officials said.

In addition to monitoring payments, the teams are conducting educational sessions on social protection issues, child welfare, and the appropriate use of LEAP funds.

Beneficiaries are being advised to use the grants to meet essential household needs, including healthcare, education, and proper nutrition.

The LEAP programme remains a key pillar of Ghana’s social protection system, providing bi-monthly cash support to older persons without support, persons with severe disabilities, and orphaned and vulnerable children.

The initiative is designed to improve the well-being of extremely poor households and promote social inclusion nationwide.

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In a statement, the Authority noted the feedback and concerns raised by members of the public regarding the proposed initiative.

In response, DVLA management said it is reviewing the approach and exploring alternative options to ensure that its services remain accessible to all Ghanaians, including those residing outside the country.

The Authority assured the public of its unwavering commitment to serving the collective interest of Ghanaians.

It further emphasized that it continues to work diligently to improve service delivery and ensure equitable access for everyone.

This formed part of the annual monitoring mission under the District Assemblies Common Fund – Responsive Factor Grant (DACF-RFG).

The kindergarten facility, supported through the performance-based grant framework, now provides a safer and more conducive learning environment for early childhood education in the community.

The project includes access to electricity and running water, significantly improving teaching and learning conditions.

During the visit, the Deputy Minister engaged the District Education Officer and teachers to assess the impact of the intervention on enrolment and learning outcomes.

School authorities indicated that enrolment has increased since the completion of the classroom block.

Originally initiated by the community, the school has experienced stronger local ownership following the government-supported infrastructure expansion, encouraging more parents to enrol their children.

Teachers noted that the availability of the School Feeding Programme has further strengthened attendance, particularly for pupils who travel considerable distances to access education.

The combination of improved infrastructure and feeding support has enhanced consistency in attendance and classroom participation.

Instruction at the school follows the Ghana Education Service L1/L2 language pedagogy policy, ensuring structured early learning aligned with national standards.

Hon. Sowah interacted with pupils and teachers, reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening early childhood education through performance-linked financing mechanisms that support Assemblies to deliver responsive social infrastructure.

The Ve-Golokuati classroom block forms part of broader efforts under the DACF-RFG framework to translate improved Common Fund releases into measurable improvements in education access and quality at the local level.

Speaking at the Graphic Business and Stanbic Bank Ghana Breakfast Meeting, the Director of Policy Planning at the Ministry of Transport, Eric Tetteh-Addison, said tackling congestion and inefficiencies requires a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach.

“To solve congestion, it must be a multifaceted approach. The transport system is made up of infrastructure, vehicles and load. If the vehicles are available but the infrastructure is inadequate, demand will exceed supply. That is where you begin to see shortages and chaos within the system,” he explained.

Mr Tetteh-Addison stressed that while road expansion falls under another ministry, the Transport Ministry is working to improve service delivery within existing infrastructure constraints, particularly through mass transit solutions.

“What we have control over is how to provide services effectively and efficiently based on the infrastructure that currently exists, even if that infrastructure is inadequate. If you look at the roadside today, particularly private cars, you see one car carrying one or two people.

“Within 100 metres you may have 50 cars but only 50 people. If instead you have three high-occupancy buses in that same space carrying 80 to 100 people each, you are moving more than 300 people at a go and freeing up road space for others,” he stressed.

He disclosed that government is also collaborating with relevant institutions to expand alternative modes of transport.

A revised legislative instrument currently before Parliament will require vehicle owners to register with towing companies to ensure broken-down vehicles are cleared promptly.

“Road transport has dominated the space in Ghana for too long. Rail is not functioning as it should, and water transport is virtually absent. We are studying how to use coastal waters and improve movement on the Volta Lake so we are not relying only on roads.

“There will come a time when you will not see broken down vehicles sitting on our roads for hours. If you fail to act within the stipulated time, the National Road Safety Authority will tow the vehicle and charge you. We must bring discipline onto our roads,” he added.

Beyond infrastructure, stakeholders emphasised the need for stronger financial collaboration and discipline to sustain reforms.

Executive Head of Business and Marketing at Stanbic Bank Ghana, Mawuko Afadzinu, revealed that a 50 million dollar revolving transport financing scheme introduced in 2007 collapsed due to widespread loan defaults, undermining what could have been a transformative partnership between banks and transport operators.

“The vision was that beneficiaries would pay 10 percent upfront, complete payment within four years, and the money would revolve to finance more buses. Over time, Ghana would have had thousands of new vehicles financed through a self-sustaining scheme.

“There were huge defaults. Some people took vehicles on behalf of others. Some borrowed from places with unsustainable interest rates just to raise the 10 percent deposit. Once you burden yourself with expensive loans, it becomes difficult to service even a reasonably structured facility,” Mr Afadzinu said.

He maintained that restoring trust and integrity in financial agreements is critical to rebuilding such collaborative models.

“If we increase our sense of integrity and respect for process, if we take a loan, agree to the terms and do whatever it takes to repay, we can change this country. It is not just leadership, it is all of us. Without that systemic mindset shift, it is difficult to bring such a model back,” he emphasised.

From academia, Professor Enoch F. Sam, Director of Research, Innovation and Development at the University of Education, Winneba, underscored the importance of data driven collaboration in shaping reforms.

“The first thing is to understand how our people move, how they commute and for what reasons. With that understanding, we can determine the most efficient ways of moving them,” he said.

He also called for coordinated action across sectors to reduce overreliance on roads and address behavioural bottlenecks.

“We are overly focused on roads. Some bulk goods should move by rail or water. That will free space for daily commuting activities. Clear hawkers off the roads and provide them with appropriate spaces. Make public transport more efficient by moving people in mass numbers. Integrate trotros as feeder services to high capacity buses instead of pushing them out abruptly. We have beautiful policies and plans. The issue is implementation. We must move beyond talk and walk the talk,” he said.

Stakeholders concluded that addressing Ghana’s transport challenges will require stronger collaboration, disciplined implementation and shared responsibility.

While government is setting the tone, sustained partnership among regulators, financiers, operators and commuters will be crucial to easing congestion and improving economic efficiency.

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In a press statement issued on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the company said the incident occurred at around 10:58 p.m. on Monday, February 23, disrupting supply to a section of customers within the Tema enclave.

GRIDCo indicated that technical teams have begun investigations to determine the exact cause of the fault while restoration efforts continue.

“Our engineers are currently diagnosing the cause of the disturbance and working diligently to restore power supply to the affected areas as quickly as possible,” the statement said.

The company apologised to customers for the inconvenience and assured the public that steps are being taken to resolve the situation promptly and stabilise electricity supply in the affected areas.

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In a petition dated February 12, 2026, the group invoked Article 243(3) of the 1992 Constitution, which empowers the President to revoke the appointment of an MCE for stated misconduct or incompetence.

The petition outlines several allegations, including abuse of authority and disrespect for the General Assembly. The executives claim the MCE unilaterally locked the Assembly Hall to prevent a duly convened meeting summoned by the Presiding Member.

They further allege collusion in illegal mining activities, claiming confiscated excavators were released without accountability, and accusing the MCE of using security operatives to extort money from illegal miners. The petitioners say evidence, including videos and mobile money transaction records, has been submitted to support the claims.

Additional accusations include conflicts of interest in the award of contracts, such as the Busua-Dixcove Bridge project and a School Feeding Programme contract, as well as alleged interference in chieftaincy matters that reportedly contributed to unrest in parts of the municipality.

The executives also accuse the MCE of financial mismanagement, particularly for failing to deploy district road machinery for feeder road maintenance while allegedly authorizing the hiring of external equipment at extra cost.

They argue that the MCE’s continued stay in office threatens local governance, party unity, and development in the municipality, and are therefore calling on the President to take decisive action.

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The controversy began after Simi made a strong statement calling for rapists to be “burnt and castrated” amid the ongoing sexual assault case involving TikToker Mirabel, who later retracted her claims.

Her comments generated mixed reactions online, prompting social media users to dig through Simi’s personal feed and uncover tweets from 2012.

In some of the old posts, Simi wrote about a four-year-old having a crush on her and “acting like he wana loc lip,” and in another, she joked about the child “trying to put hand inside my shet (sic)”.

Reacting to this, Simi took to her X page to clarify the tweets.

She said, “I haven’t been on Twitter today, but someone brought a few of my old tweets to my attention, and I can’t not address it. 14 years ago, I was 23, so I was definitely not a child. I’m not here to make excuses because I don’t have anything to make excuses for. What I can’t let anyone do is twist my story to fit false narratives.”

She further explained, “In 2012, I lived and helped out at my mom’s daycare while hustling my music. I tweeted everything that happened in my life, as we all did at the time. Kids can be mischievous. If a child did something I found funny, I tweeted about it. Kids are cute and lovable. I want to hug, kiss, and cuddle them. I tweet about it. Nothing I tweeted was from perversion.”

Simi added, “I was not famous then, so maybe if I was, I would have understood that anything is open to interpretation, including being used falsely by a faceless mob. I’ve never been depraved in my life. You can retweet all the tweets in the world about me loudly crushing on people I admired or being a cheeky young woman. I wasn’t trying to hide it, because I have nothing to hide.”

She also noted that some of her old tweets have been deleted for the sake of her family, but reaffirmed her stance against sexual violence

“I have always spoken against rape and sexual assault, even before you knew I existed. It’s not a costume I’m wearing, it’s who I am. I’ve never claimed to be perfect. I’ve never claimed to know everything. I said stop raping women. I stand by it.”

The Executive Director of PFAG, Bismark Owusu Nortey, expressed concern that the country’s greenhouse projects have yet to translate into sustainable, year-round tomato production.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News on Monday, February 23, he said structural bottlenecks continue to limit farmers’ ability to produce consistently and at scale.

“It’s unfortunate that over the years of investment in greenhouse facilities for tomatoes, we are still not able to be self-sufficient in the production of that crop,” he said.

His comments come amid rising tomato prices across several markets in Accra following last week’s deadly attack on Ghanaian traders in neighbouring Burkina Faso. Market women say the disruption in cross-border supply has triggered shortages, pushing prices upward and leaving many consumers struggling to cope with the increasing cost.

Mr. Nortey identified the absence of industrial tomato processing factories as a major gap in the agricultural value chain. Without processing plants to absorb excess produce during peak seasons, farmers lack incentives to invest in continuous production.

“We do not have industrial tomato processing factories where we can create a system for farmers to produce all year round to feed those industries,” he explained.

He noted that the lack of processing capacity not only leads to waste during bumper harvests but also discourages farmers from expanding operations beyond seasonal farming.

According to him, achieving self-sufficiency requires more than greenhouse infrastructure. It demands coordinated investment in irrigation systems, storage facilities, seed development, and agro-processing industries.

He stressed that until these interconnected challenges are addressed, Ghana will continue to depend on imports during lean seasons — a situation that exposes the country to external market shocks and price volatility.

Mr. Nortey called for a comprehensive agricultural strategy that links production, storage, and processing to ensure sustainable growth and food security.

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The development follows a large-scale operation by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), which intercepted trucks declared as transit cargo from Akanu, reportedly destined for Niger through Kulungugu.

The operation uncovered several alleged breaches, including the movement of goods without the mandatory customs human escort — a violation that has raised concerns about possible internal collusion.

Speaking on Citi FM’s Breakfast Show, Mr. Ampem said the President demanded an immediate briefing upon their return from the border.

“When we returned from the border, the President was waiting for us for feedback. He was so upset, and there is no way anybody involved in this is going to be treated with kid gloves,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister stressed that the government is determined to send a strong message that customs officers are entrusted with safeguarding national revenue and protecting the country’s borders, and any breach of that responsibility will attract sanctions.

“We want to send a very strong signal that our customs officers have the responsibility to ensure revenue and protect our borders. So, they should not be complicit in this,” he said.

Mr. Ampem, however, clarified that not all officers were implicated. He acknowledged that some personnel played a crucial role in exposing the irregularities.

“There are good ones who assisted us in this exercise. We want to reward good behaviours of customs officers and punish bad behaviours,” he added.

The launch also marked the start of the distribution process for beneficiaries. Prior to receiving the birds, participants attended a three-day capacity-building workshop, gaining hands-on training and essential skills in poultry management to ensure their success in the programme.

Municipal Chief Executive Eric Assibey revealed that the municipality has been allocated 6,000 broiler birds, which will be distributed in phases. The first phase will see 3,000 birds given to 150 residents, with each receiving 20 birds to establish or expand their small-scale poultry businesses.

Mr. Assibey emphasised that the programme is non-partisan, clarifying that beneficiary selection was conducted without political considerations. “This is a government policy meant to benefit all citizens. The selection of beneficiaries was therefore done on a non-partisan basis,” he noted.

He urged participants to fully embrace the initiative and make the project a success, stressing that it would significantly improve the availability and affordability of poultry products in the municipality. “Do not disappoint the government. Make this project a success,” he added.

Mavis Agyeiwaah, the Municipal Agric Director, announced that Agricultural Extension Officers would be deployed across various zones to provide technical support and monitor the progress of the birds.

Dr. Amponsah Asare, a Veterinary Medical Scientist, highlighted the importance of pre-distribution training. He recommended that Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) organise workshops to equip recipients with skills in poultry management, disease prevention, and feeding practices to ensure the programme’s sustainability.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the government, specifically praising President John Dramani Mahama for launching the initiative, which they described as a “game-changer” for local farmers and a “step in the right direction” for Ghana’s agriculture sector.

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The training, organised by the School Feeding Secretariat in Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, was aimed at equipping caterers with the knowledge and skills required to prepare balanced diets using locally available ingredients.

Speaking to Adom News, Adansi Districts Zonal Coordinator for School Feeding, Irene Sena Agbleke, said the exercise was designed to promote professional catering standards within the programme.

She explained that the initiative would enable caterers to use simple and common food items to prepare nutritious meals that support the growth and development of children in schools across the six Adansi districts.

Agbleke stressed that improving the quality of meals under the School Feeding Programme remains a priority, noting that proper nutrition plays a critical role in enhancing learning outcomes and overall child development.

Some caterers who participated in the training welcomed the initiative but expressed concerns about the current feeding grant. They said although prices of some food items have reduced, the allocation of GH¢2 per child is inadequate to provide balanced and nutritious meals.

According to them, increasing the grant to GH¢3 per child would enable them to improve meal quality and, where possible, include desserts.

Despite the challenges, the caterers acknowledged that the programme has significantly boosted school enrolment, as many parents are encouraged to send their children to school because of the feeding support.

The training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the implementation of the School Feeding Programme and ensure beneficiaries receive nutritious meals to support their education.

The agreement was signed by the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, and the Executive Director of B5 Plus Limited, Mukesh Thakwani.

It sets out a collaborative framework for developing and managing the cashew processing facility under a Build-Operate (BO) model.

Ghana is one of the major producers of raw cashew nuts in Africa, yet a significant portion is exported without value addition.

The MoU recognises the urgent need to shift from raw exports to domestic processing to enhance farmer incomes, expand employment opportunities, and diversify exports.

Under the arrangement, B5 Plus Limited will finance, design, construct, equip, own, and operate the plant at its own cost and risk, subject to regulatory approvals.

The Ministry will facilitate policy coordination, land support, stakeholder engagement, and inter-agency approvals to ensure smooth implementation.

The initiative aligns with Ghana’s economic transformation agenda, including industrialisation, import substitution, and sustainable export growth.

The project places strong emphasis on sustainable sourcing arrangements with farmers and aggregators, including transparent grading systems, prompt payments, and farmer engagement programmes. It also promotes employment creation and skills transfer to build local technical and managerial capacity.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, stressed the project’s strategic importance within the Feed Ghana Programme.

He said, “Feed Ghana is not just about growing more crops; it is about building industries around what we grow.”

According to him, local processing is central to restoring value to farmers and rural communities, stressing that “When we process our cashew locally, we create jobs, strengthen farmers, and keep Ghanaian wealth within Ghana,” he said.

He stressed that by processing cashew locally, Ghana stands to capture greater value within its borders, from shelling and grading to packaging and export of finished products, rather than exporting raw nuts and re-importing processed goods at higher costs.

Industry analysts note that domestic processing will help stabilise farm-gate prices, reduce post-harvest losses, and deepen rural industrialisation, particularly in cashew-producing regions.

The MoU clearly states that the project will operate under a Build-Operate model, with ownership remaining with the investor.

Whilst the agreement is non-binding and subject to further definitive arrangements, it establishes a structured implementation pathway, including the formation of a Joint Technical Committee to oversee planning and milestones.

Reaffirming government’s determination, the Food and Agriculture Minister concluded that “The era of exporting raw potential is over. Under Feed Ghana, we are turning harvest into industry and agriculture into the engine of economic transformation.”

If successfully implemented, the MoFA -B5 partnership project could serve as a model for similar investments across other tree crops and agricultural value chains, accelerating Ghana’s transition from commodity dependence to industrial transformation.

Speaking at the National Forum on Microgrids and Minigrids for Off-Grid Electrification in Accra, in a speech delivered on his behalf, the Minister noted that high upfront costs and perceived investment risks continue to discourage private sector participation.

“Financing remains a hurdle — high costs and risks deter private players,” he stated.

Mr Jinapor explained that while Ghana is committed to achieving universal electricity access, limited funding for decentralised energy systems threatens to slow progress, especially in remote and hard-to-reach areas.

“Ghana is addressing this hurdle with stable policies, regulations, de-risking mechanisms, capacity building and market support, while prioritising affordability and inclusion,” he added.

The forum, chaired by former Power Minister Kwabena Donkor, brought together government officials, regulators, development partners, private companies, traditional leaders and civil society groups to discuss practical ways of accelerating off-grid electrification.

Participants examined policy, regulatory and financing frameworks needed to scale up microgrid and minigrid deployment as part of Ghana’s broader energy transition agenda.

According to the Energy Ministry, Ghana’s electricity access rate currently stands at 89.03 per cent. However, about 3.5 million people — mainly in island, lakeside and rural communities — still lack reliable power supply.

Mr Jinapor said extending the national grid to such areas is often slow and expensive, making decentralised systems a more viable option.

“This demands a rethink of how we plan, deliver and use energy,” he said, describing microgrids and minigrids as “vital pillars” of the country’s energy future.

He noted that systems powered by solar, biomass and battery storage can provide reliable electricity closer to communities, reduce carbon emissions and stimulate local economic activity.

“Electricity that ignores livelihoods, industry and services fails to transform,” he stressed, adding that energy parks must support agro-processing, cold storage, irrigation, healthcare, education and small-scale manufacturing.

The forum also reviewed progress under initiatives such as Africa Energy Parks and the Scaling-Up Renewable Energy Programme, which support solar mini-grids and home systems in off-grid areas.

Mr Donkor observed that despite steady expansion of the national grid, between 10 and 15 per cent of Ghanaians still lack access to modern energy services, particularly in rural communities.

Also speaking at the event, Paulina Różycka, Team Leader for Infrastructure and Sustainable Development at the Delegation of the European Union to Ghana, said microgrids and minigrids are no longer optional.

“They are a necessity for reaching remote communities,” she said.

She cited the Africa Energy Parks project in Jang in the Savannah Region, which provides electricity to more than 500 households while supporting productive activities and climate resilience.

The forum is expected to produce key recommendations, secure stakeholder backing for the Africa Energy Parks model and strengthen cooperation between government, industry and development partners.

Organisers say the outcomes will feed into Ghana’s long-term electrification strategy, as the country seeks to close the remaining access gap and support inclusive economic growth through renewable energy.

The young girls did not receive financial assistance from home to enable them to feed themselves. They therefore solicited prepared noodles — popularly known as Indomie in local circles — from the riders.

As the noodle pack became popular, it earned the nickname “laptop” among the village folks for how the pack flips open, the top covering reclining like the screen of a laptop.

What appeared to be a basic meal became the attraction and craving that lured young girls to the commercial motorbike riders.

With these “laptops”, the riders lured the girls into sexual relationships, which gradually led to a spike in teenage pregnancy cases in the village.

Today, awareness campaigns and youth empowerment initiatives introduced by Plan International Ghana’s Rooting for Change project are changing the narrative.

“Before the project was introduced into our community in 2024, we were having a major challenge with teenage pregnancy in the community.

It was very high. Almost every year, we were recording pregnant teenage candidates taking the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), and it was all because of the okada riders,” the Chief of Jato, Baffour Teitey Adjewi Narh III, said.

“The girls depended on the okada riders for food and other school needs.

Parents were not providing these essentials for their wards, and so the girls were seeking them from the riders, who ended up sleeping with them.

But because of the project they introduced in our community, we did not record any teenage pregnancy in the last BECE, that is 2025,” the elated chief disclosed.

Addressing officials from Plan International Ghana and journalists who had visited the community to assess the impact of the project, Baffour Narh said before the project, a lot of things were happening to the children in the village, especially among the girls, explaining that they were also not going to bed early.

However, after the introduction of the project, which came with sensitisation programmes, the children now went to bed early.

The journalists had earlier attended a three-day training workshop organised by Plan International Ghana to strengthen their skills in child-centred, gender-sensitive and safeguarding-compliant reporting, as well as to gain in-depth insight into their programmes and development priorities. 

The project

Implemented with funding from Tony’s Chocolonely, Plan International Ghana’s Rooting for Change project was introduced in cocoa growing communities in the Suhum Municipality to address unintended adolescent pregnancies.

Started in 2024 and expected to end in September 2026, the project is being piloted in Aponoapono and Jato under the Aboafa and Asentenapa Cocoa Cooperative unions.

With the establishment of the Community Child Protection and Labour Committee (CCPLC), the Chief said, parents had been educated on their responsibilities and how to take care of their children.

He said the children had also been sensitised to know exactly what to do and where to go should they face challenges, adding that the places included the CCPLC and the Department of Social Welfare, which were both stakeholders in children’s development.

“Now, the children are bold enough to talk to us about their problems.

They are also able to express themselves confidently in public.

They know their responsibilities as children, as well as their rights, something that was not there in the past,” he disclosed.

Other opinion leaders of the community, such as the Line Manager, Human Rights and Community Development of Asentenapa Cocoa Cooperative Union, Ivan Ayivor; the Municipal Head, Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, Ernest Evans Ewusi, and two members of the CCPLC, Michael Amoyaw and Vida Korlekie Djamgbah, all corroborated what the chief said about what pertained in the community before and after the introduction of the project.

Mr Ayivor, for instance, said recently, some of the okada riders approached him and asked what they had been telling the girls because they were now not having their way with them.

“They said formerly, when we bring them ‘laptops’, the girls would be following them up and down, but nowadays, they don’t,” he said about his encounter with the riders.

Reactivate

Mr Ewusi said the project had been able to reactivate its mandate, which was almost dormant in the past.

In interviews with some of the children, they also confirmed what the town elders said.

One of the girls, Janet (not her real name), said but for the project, she would have had multiple partners by now.

She said she used to have a boyfriend, who was not an okada rider, though.

She said she did not know the implications of her actions then that she could get pregnant, but now she did, and it was because of the education she had received.

“I have been advising the girls who are still into that behaviour to put a stop to it because it won’t help them in any way. Some listen, others do not. Some of those who listened had completed school and were now in senior high school,” she said.

George (not his real name) said that although he did not have a girlfriend in the past, he was encouraged by friends to be a go-between — a kind of relationship intermediary — for his friends and the girls.

“So, if somebody needed a girl, I would go and call them for the boys, who, after having sex with the girls, would give me money.

When the project was introduced, and they encouraged us to love ourselves, I changed, and so now when I see the boys doing that, it pains me, and I advise them against that,” he said.

The Project Manager of Rooting for Change, Bless Vieku, mentioned some of the things that had been done under the project, including the establishment of adolescent clubs, training of peer educators, establishment of girls’ football clubs, youth group partnerships and engagement with traditional and religious leaders.

Since making his senior national team debut in March 2025, the Hearts of Oak shot-stopper has cemented his position as Ghana’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Dauda, who himself once patrolled the Black Stars’ goal, revealed that he stays closely involved with Asare, providing advice and technical guidance to aid his development at both club and international levels.

“I’ve been in that position before. Because he’s in the team as a Black Stars player, and that’s my department, so anytime they play the game, I get in touch with him, with his goalkeeper coach. We share ideas, we give feedbacks for the way how he can improve as a goalkeeper and as an individual. So I keep advising him to stay focused because…

“The Fenerbahce team saw you playing in the Premier League, in the Luka League, and then you were selected. So need to stay focused and then keep doing what you know to do best.”

Dauda praised Asare’s leadership and composure, noting that handling criticism is part of the job for someone in his position.

“So I think he’s doing well for himself and for his club. Being a captain, a leader, and then a commander, you know, it’s not easy. For that position, definitely, you know, you need to be criticised if things are not going well. That’s how it should be. But for now, I think he’s staying focused because it’s someone who will listen. He talked to me, listening. So he’s a fast learner, he’s coachable. So I’m happy for him. He’s doing well for his club and for himself.”

Asare is expected to be included in the Black Stars squad for next month’s friendly matches against Austria and Germany, part of preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

According to him, speaking on Changes on Joy Prime, he addressed the Menzgold saga during a television interview, stating that the former president would not complete his term because of the pain caused to victims whose investments were locked up.

He said he was arrested immediately by a police convoy right after the interview and put behind bars, which he believes was done under Akufo-Addo’s instructions.

“I said he needed to pay the money before he finished his term if eno be so he no go finish his term; he go run away and boom they said I had threatened him. I went to one of the channels, I reach house and wanted to go buy some fufu. So, I was speaking to my PA and then I saw four wheel drives and boys are jumping out with bullet proofs with guns,” he told Roselyn Felli.

‘I spent three days at the BNI Cells and was moved because they cannot prosecute me and handed me over to the police. When I was done with my interrogation with the police. They made sure I was put in the hardest cells you can ever find in Accra. Like where they put armed robbers, rapists, killers, etc. I was put in the SWAT cells for two days,” he added.

Bullgod continued by saying that the BNI cells were very large and that he was the only one there. As a result, he was afraid to sleep because he believed his detention was politically motivated and that anything could happen at night, so he stayed awake for three days.

He also revealed that the police are not responsible for feeding prisoners, so if no one brings you food, you remain hungry. He added that whenever food was brought in, he and the others shared it among themselves.

Fortunately for Bullgod, he said he was spared the prison cell leader’s routine because of his popularity.