Africa News from a Ghanaian Lens

Africa news covered from a Ghanaian lens: regional politics, economies, and the events shaping the continent. Curated from leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

Egbert Bloemsma, CEO of HBD Hotels, says its important to preserve the culture while developing the old plantation buildings. By Daniel BELOUMOU OLOMO (AFP)
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Ghana and West African Partners Scale Up Heritage Conservation and Tourism Strategy

Ghana and its West African neighbors are intensifying efforts to preserve cultural heritage and expand their tourism sectors through significant international partnerships and strategic event planning. In a landmark move for regional conservation, Ghana and South Korea have launched a $4 million heritage initiative specifically designed to protect historic forts and castles from the escalating threats of climate change. The Korea-Ghana Heritage Project will focus on climate risk assessments and the reinforcement of preservation policies across six sites in the Greater Accra Region, including Fort Fredensborg and Christiansborg Castle. This initiative aims to establish a new international standard for cultural cooperation and climate resilience, integrating training for local professionals and sustainable management for host communities. While Ghana reinforces its coastal defenses, neighboring Sao Tome and Principe is celebrating the recent addition of its historic 'rocas' to the UNESCO World Heritage List. These former colonial plantations, once centers of forced labor for sugar, cocoa, and coffee cultivation, are being reimagined as pillars of 'living heritage.' Despite many structures remaining in disrepair, private investment is increasingly targeted at revitalizing these sites to marry historical preservation with economic development. This shift reflects a broader regional trend of repurposing colonial-era infrastructure into tourism assets that acknowledge a dark historical past while fostering modern economic growth. Domestically, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) is paving the way for future cultural celebrations by extending the proposal deadline for the 'December in GH 2026' festival to September 7, 2026. This extension allows event organizers and cultural innovators more time to develop concepts for the 'Black Star Experience,' which runs from December 1, 2026, to January 3, 2027. The festival remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s strategy to attract the global diaspora; however, experts warn that domestic participation remains hindered by high travel costs and inadequate infrastructure. Critics and cultural advocates emphasize that a mindset shift toward valuing local travel is essential to prevent the erosion of 'Ghanaianness' in the face of rapid globalization. As the sector evolves, some advocates are calling for a fundamental restructuring of how tourism is categorized and managed. Spoken word artist and arts advocate Oswald Okaitei has cautioned that focusing solely on the 'Culture' aspect of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts may limit economic potential. He argues that the government must look beyond traditional cultural displays to leverage social, educational, and health resources as tourism drivers. By diversifying the tourism portfolio and investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, Ghana and its neighbors aim to build a robust industry that preserves national identity while maximizing revenue from both international and domestic visitors.

Former President Nana Akufo-Addo Pays Final Respects to Late Ya-Naa Abukari II at Gbewaa Palace
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Former President Nana Akufo-Addo Pays Final Respects to Late Ya-Naa Abukari II at Gbewaa Palace

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo traveled to the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi to mourn the late Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Naa Abukari II. During the visit, the former President expressed his deep condolences to the Regent of Dagbon, Kampakuya-Naa, and the wider Dagbon community. This high-profile visit underscores the significant personal and political connection between the former leader and the late traditional ruler, whose reign was marked by a historic period of stability in the region. Accompanying the former President was Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the Member of Parliament for Karaga, who emphasized the profound nature of the tribute. Dr. Adam noted that the visit served as a symbol of the enduring bond that existed between Nana Akufo-Addo and the late Ya-Naa. The atmosphere at the Gbewaa Palace was one of solemn reflection, as local leaders and residents gathered to witness the former President paying his respects to a ruler who was instrumental in the modern history of the Dagbon Kingdom. The relationship between the two leaders was rooted in the restoration of peace within the Dagbon state. During his presidency, Nana Akufo-Addo played a central role in resolving the long-standing chieftaincy dispute, an effort that Ya-Naa Abukari II publicly acknowledged as early as 2020. The late Overlord had described the restoration of peace and unity as a source of immense pride for the Kingdom, crediting the former President’s administration for its commitment to ending the decades-old conflict. As Dagbon enters a period of transition under the leadership of the Regent, the former President's visit serves as a reminder of the fragility and importance of regional peace. The legacy of Ya-Naa Abukari II remains tied to the era of reconciliation that brought the Abudu and Andani royal gates together. For the people of Yendi and the broader Northern Region, the presence of Nana Akufo-Addo at the palace reaffirms a commitment to the continued stability and unity that the late Overlord championed throughout his tenure.

The conference
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Rev. Stephen Wengam and Rt Rev. Dr Hilliard Dogbe Challenge African Pastors to Shun Materialism and Embrace Social Stewardship

Leading figures in the African church have issued a clarion call for a fundamental shift in ministry, urging a move away from materialism toward deep spirituality and practical social engagement. Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, and Rt Rev. Dr Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church, separately emphasized that the modern church must evolve to meet both the spiritual and socio-economic needs of its congregations while remaining rooted in foundational truths. Together, these messages signal a pivot toward a more holistic form of leadership within the continent's religious institutions.\n\nSpeaking at the National Pastors Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Rev. Wengam addressed a gathering themed 'Fresh Revival to Pursue the Great Commission.' He challenged African pastors to resist the temptations of carnality, complacency, and the pursuit of material wealth. Drawing on the history of the Assemblies of God and its origins in the Azusa Street revival, Wengam argued that the future of evangelism on the continent depends on a return to intense prayer and aggressive church planting. During his visit, which included an exchange of Ghanaian souvenirs with Ethiopian church leadership, he was joined by Rev. Dominic Yeo in advocating for a ministry that prioritizes spiritual growth over personal gain.\n\nSimultaneously, in Cape Coast, the AME Zion Church outlined a vision for a 'new approach to ministry' during its biennial conference. Rt Rev. Dr Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe stressed that the church must remain relevant to contemporary society by addressing the specific challenges faced by different age groups, particularly young adults navigating the complexities of post-graduation life and unemployment. This vision extends beyond the pulpit to encompass broader stewardship, including environmental protection and public health. The conference also featured calls from regional government officials for the clergy to use their influence to address national issues like sanitation and social behavior.\n\nThese overlapping messages reflect a growing trend among West African religious leaders to redefine the church’s role in the 21st century. By balancing the deep spirituality championed by Rev. Wengam with the practical support and environmental stewardship advocated by Rt Rev. Dr Dogbe, the African church aims to present a model of leadership that is both divinely inspired and socially conscious. These developments suggest a concerted effort to ensure that religious institutions not only serve as spiritual sanctuaries but also as active participants in the social and economic transformation of the continent.

Officials and participants after the opening of the training programme
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President Mahama Joins African Union Leaders in Angola to Strengthen Continental Peace and Security Architecture

President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Luanda, Angola, to participate in the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU). Hosted by Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, the summit focuses on enhancing conflict prevention and resolution mechanisms across the continent. This high-level gathering comes at a critical time as African leaders seek to adopt a comprehensive Action Plan and Implementation Matrix to refine the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) in response to a surge in regional instability. The summit's agenda is dominated by the need for more effective strategies to manage ongoing security crises in several flashpoints, including the war in Sudan and the protracted conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Leaders are also assessing existing peace frameworks to address persistent threats in the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, and northern Mozambique. By evaluating the effectiveness of current governance and security structures, the AU aims to improve its proactive response capacity, moving beyond crisis management toward sustainable peacebuilding and regional stability. The urgency of these diplomatic efforts is underscored by the volatile security landscape across the continent. For example, recent reports of heavy gunfire and explosions near a military base at Niamey’s international airport in Niger highlight the ongoing challenges faced by military authorities in the Sahel as they struggle against jihadist insurgencies. Such incidents, which have previously resulted in significant casualties among both military personnel and civilians, serve as a stark reminder of the fragile security environment that the AU leaders in Luanda are working to stabilize through collective continental action. Complementing these high-level diplomatic efforts are grassroots initiatives aimed at building local resilience against the root causes of radicalization. In Ghana's northern regions, civil society organizations (CSOs) have been participating in intensive training programs in Bolgatanga to combat violent extremism. Organized by the National Peace Council, Catholic Relief Services, and the West Africa Centre for Counter Extremism, these initiatives target vulnerabilities such as youth unemployment and poverty. By strengthening community engagement and social cohesion, these local efforts provide a necessary foundation for the broader continental security goals currently being championed by President Mahama and his counterparts at the African Union.

The conference
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AME Zion Church Proposes Ministry Reforms in Ghana While Nigeria Overhauls National Football Governance

African institutions are facing a period of significant structural transition as both religious and sporting bodies move to modernize their operations. In Ghana, the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church, under the leadership of Rt Rev. Dr Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe, has called for a fundamental transformation in ministry approaches to better serve a contemporary audience. Speaking at the church's biennial conference in Cape Coast, Dr. Dogbe emphasized that the church must address the specific challenges of different age groups, particularly young adults struggling with employment after graduation. The church is also expanding its mission to include environmental stewardship and sanitation, with the Central Regional Minister urging religious leaders to use the pulpit to influence positive social behavior. This holistic approach reflects a growing trend of religious institutions taking an active role in national development and youth welfare. Simultaneously, in Nigeria, the national football landscape is undergoing a major governance overhaul following the resignation of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive leadership. President Bola Tinubu has called for comprehensive reforms after the departure of former NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi. The move comes as Nigeria’s national teams face intense scrutiny following poor performances and missed qualification for major tournaments, including the Women’s World Cup. An interim board led by Emmanuel Ikpeme and Ademola Olajire has been appointed to manage the federation's affairs while planned elections are postponed to allow for the implementation of these critical reforms. These developments in Ghana and Nigeria underscore a broader regional movement toward institutional accountability. Whether addressing the spiritual and socioeconomic needs of congregants in Cape Coast or the administrative failures of sports management in Abuja, leadership across the continent is being challenged to implement reforms that provide better outcomes for the public. The success of these transitions will depend on the sustained commitment of the new interim leaders and the ability of established organizations like the AME Zion Church to translate their calls for reform into tangible community impact.

The Shaolin Temple in Zambia is the first in Africa. By GIANLUIGI GUERCIA (AFP)
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World Bank Highlights Ghana’s Road Deficits as Libya Grapples with Energy Crises and Zambia Hosts Africa’s First Shaolin Temple

Across the African continent, a complex tapestry of infrastructure challenges and cultural shifts is unfolding, ranging from severe energy shortages in North Africa to logistical hurdles in West Africa and soft-power diplomacy in the south. In Libya, an oil-rich nation is paradoxically struggling with a deepening energy crisis that has left citizens facing peak summer temperatures without reliable electricity or fuel. Meanwhile, new data from the World Bank reveals significant infrastructure gaps in Ghana, where a vast majority of the road and rail networks remain underdeveloped or in decay. Amidst these structural difficulties, Zambia is witnessing a unique cultural transformation through the establishment of Africa’s first Shaolin Temple, blending Chinese traditions with local youth development. In Libya, the energy crisis has reached a critical point, with long power cuts and fuel shortages disrupting daily life and business operations. Experts attribute these failures to a combination of political deadlock, corruption, and the poor maintenance of existing power infrastructure. This crisis has become one of the worst in recent years, making it difficult for citizens to maintain basic functionality as temperatures soar. The situation underscores the fragile state of governance in the country, where despite vast natural resources, the basic needs of the population remain unmet due to ongoing conflict and systemic instability. To the south in Ghana, the World Bank has provided a sobering assessment of the nation’s transport infrastructure. Only 27% of Ghana’s 94,200 km road network is currently paved, with more than half of the total network classified as being in fair-to-poor condition. This lack of road quality is not merely a logistical inconvenience but a significant economic burden, with road accidents estimated to cost the country approximately US$4.55 billion annually. Furthermore, the rail sector has seen a dramatic decline, shrinking from 947 km of operational track in 1960 to just 160 km by 2020, which has drastically reduced public access to rail transport from 30% to less than 1%. Contrasting these developmental hurdles is the story of the Shaolin Temple near Lusaka, Zambia, which serves as a beacon of cultural exchange and youth empowerment. Spanning 20,000 square meters, the temple offers martial arts training to underprivileged youth, providing them with discipline and a sense of direction. The fusion of Chinese kung fu and Zambian culture has gained significant traction on social media platforms like TikTok, showcasing a 'softer' side of China’s presence in Africa. These diverse narratives from Libya, Ghana, and Zambia illustrate the dual nature of the continent’s current trajectory: the persistent struggle to maintain and modernize physical infrastructure, and the growing importance of international cultural partnerships in shaping the future of African youth.

Algeria Mourns Wildfire Victims as Eswatini and Ghana Confront Complex Migration and Security Challenges
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Algeria Mourns Wildfire Victims as Eswatini and Ghana Confront Complex Migration and Security Challenges

Africa is currently navigating a series of diverse national crises, ranging from environmental disasters in the north to shifting migration patterns in the south and west. In Algeria, a state of national mourning has been declared following deadly wildfires that have devastated local communities. Meanwhile, the Kingdom of Eswatini is proceeding with a controversial migrant resettlement agreement with the United States, and authorities in Ghana are intensifying efforts to protect citizens from the growing threat of human trafficking and fraudulent overseas employment schemes. In Algeria, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has declared three days of national mourning after forest fires claimed at least 12 lives and left 54 individuals hospitalized with severe burns. The Interior Ministry reports that multiple fires remain active, with firefighting efforts significantly hampered by extreme weather conditions, including record-breaking heat and high winds. These incidents have reignited concerns regarding the impact of climate change on the region, following a similarly destructive fire season in July 2023 that caused widespread loss of life and property. Further south, the Kingdom of Eswatini received two more migrants deported from the United States on Thursday. These individuals, originally from Latin America, are part of a group of 32 deportees accepted since July under a $5 million agreement intended to bolster the kingdom's migration management infrastructure. While the Eswatini government emphasizes that these deportees are only temporary guests—noting that some have already transitioned back to their home countries—the program remains under international scrutiny due to Eswatini’s human rights record and reports of confusion among the arriving migrants. In West Africa, the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has issued an urgent warning to young job seekers to be wary of fraudulent recruitment agencies. Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Mark Asamoah-Boakye highlighted the increasing danger of human trafficking linked to fake overseas job offers. To combat this, the GIS is advising the public to utilize a government-established portal to verify the authenticity of private employment agencies. This proactive measure follows frequent interceptions of suspicious border crossings where victims often face severe exploitation after being lured by deceptive promises of prosperity abroad. These developments underscore the multifaceted challenges facing African nations today. Whether managing the humanitarian fallout of extreme weather events or navigating the complexities of international migration and human security, regional governments are being forced to adapt. From Algeria's climate-driven emergencies to the GIS’s call for vigilance against criminal exploitation, the continent remains at a critical juncture requiring both robust national policy and enhanced regional cooperation.

A participant trying to put out a fire from the simulation exercise as part of the training
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Sanitopia Appoints Victoria Blackwood as Global Ambassador Amid Broader Public Health and Community Resilience Efforts

Sanitopia CIC has taken a significant step toward addressing Africa’s sanitation crisis with the appointment of Victoria A. Blackwood as its Global Ambassador. This strategic move is part of a broader momentum across Ghana and the continent to enhance public health, community safety, and local livelihoods. Richard Acheampong, the Founder and Executive Director of Sanitopia, emphasized that Ms. Blackwood’s extensive background in health, executive assistance, and brand management will be pivotal in driving the organization’s mission to build 10,000 modern sanitation facilities across Africa by 2035. In her new role, Ms. Blackwood will lead public education initiatives, engage regional stakeholders, and foster strategic partnerships to advocate for safe sanitation infrastructure. The organization recently demonstrated its commitment by partnering with the Ghana Library Authority to establish a 12-seater WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facility at the George Padmore Research Library in Accra. This project serves as a model for the thousands of communities Sanitopia aims to reach, highlighting the critical link between modern infrastructure and improved public health outcomes. Complementing these long-term health efforts are immediate initiatives aimed at improving the safety and economic resilience of local industries. In Sekondi and Essikado, Karpowership Ghana recently conducted a comprehensive capacity-building program for fishermen and fishmongers. Developed in collaboration with the Ghana National Fire Service and the Fisheries Commission, the training focused on environmental safety, fire prevention, and hygienic fish handling. By addressing recent fire incidents at the fishing harbor and providing financial management training, the program seeks to protect both the lives and the long-term economic stability of those in the coastal sector. However, the path to improved public health is often complicated by logistical and infrastructural hurdles. Ghana Water Ltd (GWL) recently announced a temporary disruption of water supply to Western Accra after a 500mm-diameter pipeline was damaged during excavation works for storm drains. The incident has affected residents in Mallam, Darkuman, and Kaneshie. Despite repair challenges exacerbated by local flooding, GWL is working to restore services. This disruption serves as a stark reminder of the fragile balance between urban development and the reliable delivery of essential utilities like clean water. These collective developments underscore the multifaceted nature of community development in Africa today. From Sanitopia’s ambitious 2035 vision to the practical safety training provided by Karpowership and the urgent repairs managed by GWL, sustainable progress depends on coordinated efforts between NGOs, private enterprises, and government agencies. As Ms. Blackwood begins her ambassadorship, the focus remains on building resilient systems that can withstand environmental challenges while meeting the growing demands of urbanization.

Officials and participants after the opening of the training programme
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African Security Outlook: Regional Leaders and CSOs Combat Rising Extremism and Conflict

Africa continues to grapple with complex and evolving security challenges, ranging from organized kidnapping syndicates in West Africa to targeted attacks on international peacekeepers in the East. A recent report from SBM Intelligence underscores the severity of the crisis in Nigeria, revealing that between July 2025 and June 2026, 7,825 individuals were abducted across 1,713 kidnapping incidents. During this period, at least 1,142 people were killed, and approximately N7.8 billion was paid in ransom. This surge in insecurity is mirrored by tragic events in South Sudan, where the African Union (AU) recently condemned a fatal attack on a UN patrol in Jonglei State. The assault, carried out by unidentified assailants, resulted in the deaths of two Ethiopian peacekeepers, highlighting the extreme risks faced by personnel operating in fragile environments. In response to these regional threats, civil society and religious organizations in Ghana are intensifying efforts to build community resilience and prevent the spillover of violent extremism. In Bolgatanga, more than 40 representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs) across the five northern regions recently participated in a five-day intensive training session. Organized by Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in collaboration with the National Peace Council (NPC) and the West Africa Centre for Counter Extremism (WACCE), the initiative specifically addresses socio-economic vulnerabilities. Experts identified youth unemployment and poverty as primary drivers that extremist groups exploit, emphasizing that building resilience requires a comprehensive approach beyond conventional military security measures. Complementing these community-level interventions is a growing call for moral leadership and responsible digital engagement. At the National Convention of Majlis Ansarullah Ghana in Wa, Ameer Maulvi Noor Mohammed Bin Salih and Upper West Regional Minister Charles Lwanga Puozuing urged citizens to guard against rising religious intolerance and misinformation. Under the theme "Upholding Moral Excellence in the Digital Age," leaders emphasized that technology must be used as a tool for peace rather than a medium for discord. They called on religious elders to actively mentor the youth, ensuring they can distinguish factual information from extremist propaganda to maintain national cohesion. The synthesis of these events illustrates a continental shift toward holistic security strategies that integrate state action with grassroots participation. While the African Union, through Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, continues to advocate for international investigations into attacks on peacekeepers, the local efforts in Ghana demonstrate that long-term stability hinges on addressing the root causes of radicalization. As West Africa navigates these turbulent times under the current administration, the synergy between socio-economic development, moral discipline, and proactive community engagement remains the most viable path toward sustainable peace.

Abla Dzifa Gomashie (2nd from right), Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts; Prof. Osman Damba Tahidu (right), Secretary-General, Ghana Commission for UNESCO; Dr Hyunik Hong’ (3rd from right), Secretary-General, Korean National Commission for UNESCO; Park Kyongsig (2nd from left), South Korean Ambassador to Ghana, and a representative of Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Education, launching the the Korea-Ghana Heritage Project.Picture: EDNA SALVO KOTEY
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Ghana Launches $4 Million Heritage Protection Project and Strategic Partnerships to Boost Domestic Tourism

Ghana is intensifying efforts to modernize its tourism sector through a combination of international heritage conservation and strategic domestic marketing. A landmark $4 million initiative, the Korea-Ghana Heritage Project, has been launched in partnership with South Korea to protect the nation’s historic forts and castles from the escalating threats of climate change. The project focuses on six key sites within the Greater Accra Region, including Fort Fredensborg and Christiansborg Castle. This collaboration aims to implement comprehensive climate risk assessments and reinforce national policies regarding heritage resilience, while also providing capacity building for local communities to ensure sustainable management and the preservation of national identity. Parallel to these conservation efforts, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts is seeking to transform the domestic travel experience through a new partnership with Africa World Airlines (AWA). Tourism Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie has urged the airline to incorporate information about lesser-known tourist attractions into its passenger services, such as the Boabeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary and Kintampo Waterfalls. Under this proposal, AWA would use recorded messages on flight routes and culturally inspired aircraft branding to act as "flying ambassadors" for Ghana. This strategy is designed to drive domestic tourism and economic growth by increasing awareness of the country's diverse geographical and cultural offerings among both local and international travelers. However, the government's approach has also drawn calls for a more expansive view of the sector. Arts advocate and spoken word artiste Oswald Okaitei has cautioned that the ministry’s focus must look beyond traditional cultural and creative arts. He argues that the inclusion of "Culture" in the ministry’s name should not limit the understanding of tourism's full potential, which also encompasses social, educational, health, and economic resources. By broadening the perspective to include these diverse sectors, Okaitei suggests that Ghana can maximize its revenue generation and attract a wider array of global visitors. These combined initiatives represent a significant push by the government to leverage Ghana's rich history and natural beauty for sustainable development. As Korean officials look to this heritage project as a potential standard for international cultural cooperation, the integration of private sector partners like AWA signifies a shift toward more modern, communicative tourism promotion. The success of these efforts will likely depend on the balance between preserving historical landmarks and aggressively marketing the wider spectrum of Ghanaian life to a global audience.

Participants in the launch of the Federation of Informal Sector Waste Workers Associations of Ghana
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Ghana Intensifies Environmental Stewardship through New Waste Worker Union, Accra Dredging, and Forest Protection Initiatives

Ghana has launched a series of multi-sectoral initiatives aimed at bolstering environmental sustainability, ranging from the formalization of the informal waste sector to aggressive flood mitigation and forest conservation. In a landmark move, the Ministry of Local Government and the Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO) have inaugurated the Federation of Informal Sector Waste Workers Associations of Ghana (FISWWAG). This first-of-its-kind union, themed "From Informality to Inclusion," represents the culmination of five years of organizing by GAYO. It provides a unified platform for informal waste pickers across all 16 regions to engage with government and industry leaders for better working conditions, social protection, and active participation in the nation’s circular economy policy decisions. Complementing these organizational efforts, regulatory and military interventions are being deployed to address urban sanitation and infrastructure challenges. Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), recently led an awareness campaign at the Kumasi City Market (Kejetia) to prepare traders for a planned 2027 ban on Styrofoam products. Meanwhile, in the Greater Accra Region, the Ghana Armed Forces' 15 Engineer Brigade has intensified dredging and lagoon restoration operations. Brigadier General Richard Kinney reported that the military is working around-the-clock with the Jospong Group and Zoomlion Ghana Limited to clear waste from critical water bodies like the Lafa Basin and Tessa Dam, aiming to mitigate chronic flooding caused by illegal dumping and urban encroachment. In the rural sector, environmental protection efforts have received a significant boost through private-sector support for forest conservation. Proforest has donated 22 motorbikes to the Ahafo Regional Forestry Commission to enhance surveillance in the Asunafo-Asutifi landscape. This contribution, supported by partners including Mondelēz International and Barry Callebaut, is part of a broader project to rehabilitate 450 hectares of degraded forest under the Ghana Cocoa Forest REDD+ Programme. The motorbikes will allow field officers to access remote areas more efficiently, providing a faster response to illegal logging and ensuring consistent monitoring of restoration sites. These combined efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy to strengthen Ghana's environmental resilience by involving diverse stakeholders—from grassroots waste pickers and market traders to the military and international conservation partners. As the government enforces stricter environmental regulations and expands infrastructure projects, the success of these initiatives will depend on sustained collaboration between state agencies and the private sector. Moving forward, the integration of informal workers into the formal economy and the continued restoration of vital ecological zones remain central to the nation's climate adaptation and sanitation goals.

Ghana’s Food Security Threatened by Rising Striga Infestation and Illegal Sand-Winning Activities
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Ghana’s Food Security Threatened by Rising Striga Infestation and Illegal Sand-Winning Activities

Ghana's agricultural landscape is currently grappling with a dual crisis that threatens the nation's food security: a devastating "witchweed" infestation in the north and unregulated sand-winning operations in the south. In Northern Ghana, the parasitic weed Striga is reportedly causing cereal crop losses of up to 60 per cent, while in Tsumkpo, within the Shai Osudoku District, illegal sand excavations have already decimated over 50 acres of prime farmland. Together, these biological and industrial threats are undermining the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers and jeopardizing the production of essential staples like maize, sorghum, and millet. Mr. Sumaila Seidu Saaka, the Executive Director of the Forum for Natural Regeneration (FONAR), has sounded a critical alarm regarding the Striga infestation. Speaking during a Control Awareness Campaign funded by the Awaken Trees Association of Austria, Mr. Saaka highlighted that the weed, which targets sorghum, millet, maize, and upland rice, is particularly difficult to eradicate because a single plant can produce 100,000 seeds that can remain dormant in the soil for 20 to 30 years. The campaign, part of the broader Trans-Sahara Project, is educating farmers in the Nabdam District on integrated soil management and agroforestry techniques to combat the weed's spread, which is increasingly linked to climate challenges. Simultaneously, farmers in Tsumkpo are facing a man-made catastrophe as sand-winning activities destroy fields of maize, groundnuts, pepper, and cassava. Local residents, including 92-year-old farmer Samuel Kateinor and pastor-farmer Godwin Adjaotor, have expressed desperation over the unannounced destruction of their crops. Investigations into these operations revealed a pattern of illegality; while some operators claimed to hold permits, local authorities and the District Chief Executive confirmed that such licenses were either expired or issued for entirely different locations. The deep excavations left behind have not only destroyed current yields but have rendered once-fertile soil unusable for future planting. These developments have sparked urgent calls for both community-led intervention and stricter government regulation. While FONAR continues to push for sustainable agroforestry and crop rotation to build resilience against biological threats like Striga, farmers in the Shai Osudoku District are demanding the immediate enforcement of land-use laws to halt further environmental degradation. As Ghana strives to maintain its agricultural output under the leadership of President John Mahama, the success of these efforts will depend on balancing industrial demand with the fundamental need to protect the nation's arable land and the livelihoods of those who till it.