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.

President Mahama, former Presidents, dignitaries to attend Apostle Kwadwo Safo's funeral – Family confirms
africa|

President Mahama and Former Leaders to Honor Apostle Kwadwo Safo as Advocates Push for Human Rights and Resource Accountability

Ghana is preparing for a series of significant national transitions and memorials, highlighted by the upcoming state-level funeral for the renowned industrialist and innovator Apostle Kwadwo Safo. Scheduled for July 30-31, 2026, at the Kantanka Automobile Manufacturing Centre and Black Star Square, the ceremony is expected to be attended by President John Mahama, alongside former Presidents John Kufuor and Nana Akufo-Addo. The family has confirmed that a memorial edifice will be established to preserve the Apostle’s legacy of innovation for future generations. In a related bereavement, the family of the late Kwaku Banning, also known as "Boston Jnr," has announced his passing at age 69, with funeral services set for July 31, 2026, at the Lashibi Funeral Home in Accra. Beyond these national moments of mourning, prominent voices are calling for urgent reforms in human rights and the justice system across the continent. William Nyarko, Executive Director of the Africa Center for International Law and Accountability (ACILA), recently emphasized that Africa’s sophisticated early warning systems must be met with timely political action to prevent mass atrocities. Highlighting devastating death tolls in Sudan and Ethiopia, Nyarko argued that the gap between detection and prevention remains a critical failure of leadership. Locally, this call for social justice resonates with concerns raised by Prophet Kumchacha of Heaven’s Gate Ministries. Following the legal issues surrounding NPP Chairman Wontumi, the religious leader warned against the severe overcrowding in Ghana’s prisons, urging citizens to seek wisdom to avoid the harsh realities of the nation's correctional facilities. Parallel to these judicial concerns, the governance of Ghana’s natural resources has come under scrutiny with the launch of the Feminist Minerals Initiative (FMI). Addressing the Ewoyaa Lithium Project in the Central Region, civil society organizations including CEPIL, Wacam, and Oxfam are advocating for greater transparency and fair compensation for the Afrangua community. Residents have voiced significant concerns over the impact of lithium extraction on their livelihoods, particularly regarding inadequate compensation for informal farming activities and a lack of transparency in land assessments. The FMI seeks to empower marginalized groups, especially women and youth, ensuring their participation in decision-making processes and correcting the power imbalances often present in negotiations with multinational entities like Atlantic Lithium. On the grassroots level, efforts to bolster economic independence and food security continue through targeted agricultural support in northern Ghana. In the North East Gonja District, Member of Parliament Alhaji Alhassan Mumuni recently provided over GH¢24,000 in financial aid and essential farm inputs to 120 women farmers as part of the Salaga North Women Empowerment programme. This initiative, complemented by an EU-funded poultry project that trained and equipped 500 farmers with 50 birds each, aims to mitigate rising costs and promote self-sufficiency. Together, these developments—from high-level state ceremonies and regional human rights advocacy to local economic empowerment—illustrate a nation and region navigating the complexities of honoring the past while striving for a more equitable and secure future.

EOCO Rescues 39 Trafficking Victims in Hohoe as Banking Leaders Warn of Pervasive Cyber Fraud Risks
africa|

EOCO Rescues 39 Trafficking Victims in Hohoe as Banking Leaders Warn of Pervasive Cyber Fraud Risks

Ghanaian law enforcement and financial leaders have launched a multi-pronged approach to address pressing threats to public safety and economic integrity. The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), working alongside the Ghana Police Service, recently conducted a high-stakes operation in Hohoe, Volta Region, which led to the rescue of 39 individuals suspected to be victims of a human trafficking and travel fraud syndicate. The operation focused on two specific groups, known as "Model Q" and "Ignite," which allegedly exploited vulnerable individuals with false promises of overseas employment. Among those found at the scene, 14 individuals were detained as suspected members of the syndicate, while the rest—comprising citizens from several West African nations—are being assisted by EOCO and various embassies for safe repatriation. The urgency of maintaining vigilance was further underscored by John Awuah, the CEO of the Ghana Association of Banks, who shared a personal account of being targeted by scammers immediately following a televised discussion on cybercrime. Mr. Awuah used the incident to illustrate that no individual, regardless of their professional standing or level of education, is immune to the evolving tactics of digital fraudsters. Speaking during a dialogue on the digital economy, he cautioned Ghanaians against a "false sense of security" as the nation’s digital infrastructure expands. He emphasized that the rise in online payment platforms has created a larger surface area for criminal activity, necessitating a shift in public mindset toward constant alertness and skepticism of unsolicited financial requests. In a parallel effort to enhance urban security and public health, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has completed a significant enforcement exercise to dismantle the unauthorized "Bayakasua" settlement. Led by City Mayor Richard Kwasi Ofori Boadi Agyemang, the operation saw the removal of approximately 500 wooden structures located behind the COCOBOD building in Kumasi. The settlement had long been identified as a source of sanitation challenges and security concerns, including widespread illegal utility theft. During the clearance, the Electricity Company of Ghana and Ghana Water Limited disconnected hundreds of illegal meters and water lines. Mayor Agyemang noted that the operation was conducted without incident, signaling the Assembly’s resolve to enforce planning standards. Together, these developments highlight the complex security landscape facing the current administration under President John Mahama. While the state continues to crack down on physical criminal networks like trafficking syndicates and illegal settlements, the banking sector is calling for a more robust culture of digital awareness. Moving forward, authorities have urged the public to report suspicious recruitment schemes and unauthorized utility connections to the relevant agencies. As Ghana seeks to bolster its reputation as a safe hub for investment and a secure home for its citizens, the coordination between law enforcement, financial institutions, and local government remains a critical pillar of national stability.

africa|

CAF Increases WAFCON 2026 Prize Money to $2 Million as Ghana Coach Carlos Queiroz Joins Post-World Cup Review

Dr. Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has announced a landmark $2 million prize for the winners of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), doubling the previous reward. This financial boost coincides with a period of intense strategic review for African football, as the continental body prepares to host a technical evaluation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup performance. Among the key figures expected to contribute to this review is Ghana's national team coach, Carlos Queiroz, whose leadership during the global tournament has garnered significant praise, including from President John Mahama. The increase in WAFCON prize money represents the third major increment in three years, reflecting CAF's commitment to elevating the status of women’s football across the continent. The 2026 tournament, scheduled to run from July 26 to August 16, will also feature an expanded format, growing from 12 to 16 participating teams. For Ghana’s Black Queens, the stakes are high as they have been drawn into Group D alongside Cape Verde, Cameroon, and Mali. Beyond the continental trophy and the record-breaking prize pool, the tournament will serve as the official qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Parallel to the preparations for the women’s game, CAF is focusing on the lessons learned from the recent men’s World Cup. Despite a record-breaking showing by African nations, none succeeded in breaking the semi-final barrier. Ghana’s campaign, led by Carlos Queiroz, saw the Black Stars progress to the Round of 32 before being eliminated by Colombia. Meanwhile, Morocco achieved the deepest run for the continent, reaching the quarter-finals. Dr. Motsepe’s planned review meeting aims to gather insights from coaching experts like Queiroz to bridge the gap between African teams and the world's elite footballing nations. As the continent looks toward the future, the stability of Ghana’s technical team remains a priority. Following the World Cup success, Coach Carlos Queiroz is widely expected to continue in his role with the backing of both the players and President John Mahama’s administration. This synergy between political support and technical expertise, combined with CAF’s increased financial investment in competitions like WAFCON, signals a transformative era for African football. The focus now shifts to ensuring that these investments and reviews translate into consistent podium finishes on the global stage.

Fantefest UK launched
africa|

Ghana Strategizes Global Cultural Impact with Major 2026 Festivals and Heritage Events

Ghana is positioning 2026 as a landmark year for cultural diplomacy and tourism, with a series of high-profile festivals planned across Europe and within the country. These initiatives, spearheaded by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and various cultural foundations, aim to leverage music, heritage, and history to attract investment and strengthen ties with the global African diaspora. From major exhibitions in Italy and the United Kingdom to sacred commemorations at home, the 2026 cultural calendar reflects a strategic effort to enhance Ghana's international visibility and stimulate the creative economy. On the international stage, the Euro-Afric Festival 2026 is set to take place in Napoli, Italy, from October 30 to November 1. Organized to bridge the gap between Africa and Europe through music and creative arts, the festival will serve as a platform for cultural diplomacy and socio-economic cooperation. Dr. Yaw Stone, a key organizer, emphasized that the event will use music as a tool for international relations, with an official roadmap to be launched in Accra on August 8. Similarly, Fantefest 2026 will bring the Fante heritage to London City Hall from September 25 to 27. Launched by the GTA and the Obokese Foundation, this initiative aims to drive investment and promote Ghanaian cuisine, music, and arts to an international audience, further cementing the country’s ties with its diaspora. Domestic celebrations will also feature prominently, highlighted by the Donkese Afahye in the Breman Essiam Traditional Area. Scheduled for July 25-26, 2026, the festival marks the 20th anniversary of the enstoolment of Nana Efua Esiwaa II. Odeefuo Afankwa III, the Omanhene of the area, announced that the event will serve as a fundraiser for the Nana Efua Esiwaa II Cultural Centre. President John Mahama is expected to join other high-profile dignitaries at the grand durbar, which focuses on the theme of community progress and the importance of youth education. This event underscores the vital role traditional leadership plays in fostering local development through cultural preservation. Additionally, the 2026 Emancipation Day celebrations will run from July 18 to August 1, honoring the resilience of Africans and the historical significance of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. Under the theme "Reconnecting Roots, Celebrating Freedom, Experience Ghana," the GTA has organized a comprehensive itinerary including a fitness walk in Accra, durbars at the Pikworo Slave Camp and Assin Manso, and a Reverential Night at the Cape Coast Castle. These events collectively highlight Ghana’s commitment to preserving historical heritage and promoting cultural tourism as a pillar for national growth and the unification of the global African family.

Nesrea Official in Nigeria collects sample from foamy substance on Abuja-Kaduna highway
africa|

Ghana and Uganda Scale Up Humanitarian Relief as Nigeria Investigates Highway Chemical Mystery

Major humanitarian and environmental responses are currently underway across Africa as nations grapple with the aftermath of natural disasters and industrial accidents. In Ghana, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has stepped in to support nearly 90,000 people displaced by devastating floods, while Uganda has launched a massive emergency food operation to combat severe drought in the Karamoja region. Simultaneously, Nigerian environmental authorities are investigating a mysterious hazardous substance that has disrupted travel on a major national highway. In Ghana, ADRA presented relief items valued at $20,000 (approximately GHS 220,000) to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NaDMO) to assist victims of catastrophic flooding. The donation, which includes mattresses, blankets, and essential toiletries, follows heavy rains on June 28-29, 2026, which claimed 34 lives and impacted 77 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). Dr. Isaac Kankam-Boadu, Country Director for ADRA Ghana, described the aid as a "symbol of hope" for the 89,736 individuals displaced by the disaster. NaDMO official Alhaji Ahmed-Rufai Afarahim expressed gratitude for the timely assistance, pledging a transparent and prompt distribution process to the affected communities. To the east, the Ugandan government has initiated an emergency relief operation targeting the drought-stricken Karamoja region. Extensive crop failures in the area have led to a surge in hunger, prompting the government to distribute 9.4 million kilograms of maize flour and beans. The relief effort is designed to reach over 313,000 households across nine districts, providing a critical lifeline to families whose livelihoods have been decimated by the lack of rainfall and subsequent agricultural collapse. In Nigeria, environmental safety has become a primary concern following the appearance of a mysterious white, foamy substance on the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway. The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (Nesrea) has launched a formal investigation into the substance, which is suspected to have leaked from a lorry following a road accident. While the specific nature of the cargo remains unknown, Nesrea has collected samples for laboratory analysis and issued urgent warnings to motorists and the public to maintain a safe distance and avoid any contact with the foam until the area is declared safe. These concurrent events underscore the diverse environmental and humanitarian challenges facing the continent, ranging from climate-induced weather extremes to industrial safety risks. As Ghana and Uganda focus on immediate relief for displaced and hungry populations, the situation in Nigeria highlights the need for robust environmental monitoring and rapid response to industrial spills. Together, these efforts reflect the critical role of both governmental and non-governmental organizations in safeguarding lives and managing the complex logistics of regional disaster recovery.

Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah Reverses Achimota Forest Declassification as Ghana Strengthens Climate Governance
africa|

Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah Reverses Achimota Forest Declassification as Ghana Strengthens Climate Governance

The Ghanaian government has signaled a robust return to environmental conservation and climate resilience under the administration of President John Mahama. On July 16, 2026, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, announced the formal reversal of the declassification of the Achimota Forest, a move that restores protected status to 361.5 acres of the reserve. This decision nullifies a 2022 policy enacted by the former Akufo-Addo administration and has been hailed by the Ghana Institute of Foresters (GIF) as a bold and timely intervention. The Institute emphasized that the forest plays a critical role in urban flood mitigation and biodiversity conservation, urging the government to extend similar protections to other vital urban forests across the country. Complementing this policy shift, grassroots and private sector efforts are intensifying to safeguard the nation's green cover and educate the youth. On July 24, 2026, the Eco-Africa Network, in partnership with StarLife Assurance Ghana, will host a tree-planting initiative at Achimota Senior High School in Accra. The event aims to plant 300 tree seedlings to enhance environmental sustainability and raise climate awareness among students. This collaboration highlights the importance of partnerships between civil society and the private sector in addressing climate change, seeking to inspire students to serve as environmental ambassadors within their communities. The focus on environmental governance extends significantly into regional development strategies, particularly in the northern belt. In the Upper West Region, Regional Minister Charles Lwanga Puozuing recently identified climate change as one of the preeminent development challenges of the current generation. During a stakeholder engagement in Wa, he emphasized that climate considerations must be integrated into all aspects of regional planning, from infrastructure to agriculture. To support this, the administration is moving to establish dedicated Climate Change Units across Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to strengthen local government capabilities in managing climate impacts and securing necessary funding. To ensure these initiatives are sustainable, the Office of the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, led by Seidu Issifu, is working to bridge institutional gaps and coordinate climate finance effectively. Officials including Frank Aggrey and Nii Laryea Adjei have stressed the need for investment-ready proposals to access global climate funds. By embedding Climate Change and Sustainability Hubs within local assemblies, the Mahama administration aims to make climate resilience a core pillar of Ghana's national development agenda, ensuring that local authorities are equipped to build community resilience against the escalating threats of the climate crisis.

Ghana and Morocco Deepen Strategic Partnership Through 11 New Cooperation Accords and Maritime Security Alliance
africa|

Ghana and Morocco Deepen Strategic Partnership Through 11 New Cooperation Accords and Maritime Security Alliance

Ghana and Morocco have significantly bolstered their bilateral relations through the signing of 11 landmark cooperation agreements aimed at accelerating economic integration and regional development. Finalized during the Second Session of the Ghana-Morocco Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC) in Accra, the accords were signed by Ghana's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita. This diplomatic milestone underscores a shared commitment between the administration of President John Mahama and the Moroccan government to unlock new investment opportunities and foster stronger private-sector collaboration across the continent. The newly signed agreements span a diverse range of sectors including aviation, customs, education, scientific research, and trade facilitation. Beyond these immediate frameworks, the two nations have signaled intent to collaborate on high-impact initiatives such as pharmaceutical manufacturing, solar energy development, and the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project. Minister Ablakwa highlighted that these partnerships are designed to facilitate technology transfer and streamline institutional cooperation, while Minister Bourita emphasized that the focus must now shift toward the effective implementation of these frameworks to ensure tangible economic growth for both nations. Parallel to these diplomatic engagements, the Ghana Navy recently played a key role in the 2026 African Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS) held in Rabat, Morocco. Representing the Ghana Navy, Commodore Samuel Ayelazono joined maritime leaders and U.S. naval forces to address critical security challenges including piracy, terrorism, and illegal fishing. The summit, themed "Innovation and Partnership to Strengthen Maritime Security," focused on the integration of new technologies and intelligence-sharing protocols. Ghana’s participation in Rabat reinforces the security dimension of its relationship with Morocco, highlighting a unified front against maritime threats that jeopardize regional trade. These bilateral and security developments coincide with Accra’s upcoming role as the host for a major international conference on economic restructuring and political reform. Scheduled to be held at the GNAT Hall, the conference is organized by Harakati Za Muungano and is expected to draw over 200 delegates from across Africa. Discussions will focus on constitutional reforms, sustainable financing, and the reduction of trade barriers to enhance Africa's global competitiveness. Together, these initiatives reflect Ghana’s proactive foreign policy and its central position in driving the agenda for deeper continental integration and stability.

Nearly 150 Migrants Feared Dead or Missing Following Multiple Shipwrecks off Mauritania Coast
africa|

Nearly 150 Migrants Feared Dead or Missing Following Multiple Shipwrecks off Mauritania Coast

The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have reported a devastating series of maritime disasters off the coast of Mauritania, leaving nearly 150 migrants dead or missing. Between July 14 and July 18, 2025, at least 144 individuals were declared unaccounted for after several vessels attempted the perilous journey from West Africa to Europe. While rescue teams successfully saved approximately 387 others, the incident marks one of the deadliest periods on the West African Atlantic route this year, highlighting the extreme risks faced by those seeking better lives abroad. Specific details from the Mauritanian Coast Guard and humanitarian agencies reveal a harrowing ordeal for those on board. In one major incident, a vessel carrying approximately 160 passengers from The Gambia was stranded at sea for 25 days after running out of fuel. By the time it was located near Nouakchott, only a small fraction of the passengers had survived, with 122 people reported missing. A separate vessel originating from Senegal was also involved in a maritime emergency, though rescue operations there were more successful, with 179 individuals brought to safety. Despite these efforts, the IOM notes that only one body has been recovered so far from the Gambian vessel, leaving many families in a state of agonizing uncertainty. The West African route to the Canary Islands is increasingly recognized as one of the world's most dangerous migration paths. Often utilizing unseaworthy, overcrowded wooden pirogues, migrants are exposed to unpredictable Atlantic currents and long periods without adequate food or water. Humanitarian groups emphasize that the recent tragedies are a direct consequence of the lack of safe, legal migration alternatives and the deteriorating socio-economic conditions in sub-Saharan Africa that drive individuals to take such desperate risks. This year alone, the route has claimed over 168 lives, a figure that continues to rise as migration attempts persist despite the known dangers. In response to the tragedy, international organizations are calling for urgent governmental and global intervention to prevent further loss of life. The UNHCR and IOM have underscored the need for enhanced search-and-rescue capabilities along the West African coast and a more robust framework for regional cooperation. Beyond immediate maritime security, there is a growing consensus among civil society groups that addressing the root causes of migration—including economic instability and a lack of local opportunities—is the only sustainable way to deter such perilous journeys. For now, the focus remains on supporting the survivors and monitoring the waters for any further signs of the missing.

Ethiopia’s Deputy PM arrives in Ghana for AU Extraordinary Health Summit
africa|

President Mahama and African Leaders Convene in Accra for AU Extraordinary Summit on Health

President John Dramani Mahama has officially opened the African Union (AU) Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government on Health in Accra, calling for a radical shift toward African health sovereignty. The high-level gathering, which has drawn leaders from across the continent, serves as a critical platform for addressing systemic vulnerabilities in Africa's healthcare infrastructure. Among the prominent arrivals is Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Temesgen Tiruneh, who is representing his country to share successful health intervention models and strengthen bilateral ties with Ghana. In his keynote address, President Mahama urged African nations to commit to a renewed vision for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the total eradication of preventable diseases. He emphasized that the continent must move beyond external dependencies and instead prioritize bold, home-grown solutions that enhance local health systems. The President stressed that the ultimate success of the summit would be measured by tangible improvements in public health, particularly in the quality of care provided to mothers and children and the equipment standards of rural and urban medical facilities. The summit's agenda is broad and ambitious, targeting the elimination of HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis by 2030 through sustainable health financing and improved access to diagnostics. A significant portion of the deliberations is dedicated to boosting local pharmaceutical manufacturing to ensure Africa can produce its own vaccines and essential medicines. Delegates are also focusing on reducing maternal and child mortality rates, which remain a primary concern for the African Union’s long-term developmental goals under Agenda 2063. Beyond the multilateral discussions, the summit has facilitated key diplomatic engagements. Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Temesgen Tiruneh, is expected to hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines to enhance the historical and economic relations between Addis Ababa and Accra. As the summit progresses, the outcomes are expected to form a unified African roadmap for health resilience, ensuring that member states are better prepared for future pandemics while providing quality healthcare to all citizens today.

Lausanne Workplace Forum 2026 Launched in Accra to Bridge Faith and Professional Integrity Gap
africa|

Lausanne Workplace Forum 2026 Launched in Accra to Bridge Faith and Professional Integrity Gap

The Lausanne Workplace Forum (LWF) 2026 has been officially launched in Accra, marking the beginning of a concerted effort to integrate Christian principles into Ghana's professional and societal sectors. The launch event brought together a diverse group of Christian leaders, professionals, and influencers under a mandate to extend faith beyond the traditional boundaries of church services. Central to the forum's mission is the concept of bridging the "Sunday-to-Monday" gap, a term used to describe the disconnect between weekend religious devotion and the ethical conduct displayed in professional environments during the work week. Keynote speakers at the event, including Rev. Dr. Godwin Ahlijah and Dr. Yaw Perbi, addressed the paradox of Ghana’s high Christian population alongside persistent societal challenges such as corruption. Rev. Dr. Ahlijah emphasized that the moral decline in various sectors is often a result of inadequate discipleship, arguing that faith must manifest as tangible accountability and integrity. Dr. Perbi and Dr. Angela Dwanena-Aboagye further highlighted the personal costs and challenges associated with maintaining Christian values in competitive professional settings, urging professionals to remain steadfast as agents of change in governance, business, and education. The forum aims to equip believers with the tools necessary to act as transformative agents within their communities. By fostering a culture reflective of Christian values, the organizers hope to address systemic issues and promote a new standard of leadership in the workplace. The discussions underscored that for true national transformation to occur, the principles of integrity and service must be actively applied to solve complex professional and social problems rather than being reserved for personal piety. This launch serves as a precursor to the main Lausanne Workplace Forum conference, which is scheduled to take place from August 6 to August 9, 2026. This landmark event is expected to gather professionals from across the continent to develop practical solutions for faith-driven professional excellence. Interested participants and stakeholders have been encouraged to stay informed and register for updates through the official platform at lwfamghana.org as the movement builds momentum toward the 2026 summit.

The return of heavy construction equipment and workers to the road has renewed hope among residents
africa|

Bridging Africa's Infrastructure Execution Gap: From Continental Investment Challenges to Local Ghanaian Project Success

The African continent is currently facing a critical "execution gap" in its infrastructure development, where the ability to raise capital far outpaces the capacity to deliver tangible projects. While the African Development Bank estimates a staggering annual infrastructure need of $400 billion, experts from the Project Management Institute and academia highlight that financing alone is insufficient. McKinsey reports indicate a nearly 80% failure rate for projects during the initial planning and feasibility stages, with fewer than 10% actually reaching financial closure. This disparity is starkly illustrated in South Africa, where only about 42% of the $91 billion in secured investment pledges has successfully flowed into the economy, highlighting a systemic struggle to translate capital into operational infrastructure. Bridging this gap requires a fundamental paradigm shift toward strengthening upstream project preparation and management capabilities. The current lack of a well-prepared pipeline of "bankable" projects is compounded by a looming deficit of approximately 2.5 million project professionals across the continent by 2035. Without enhancing institutional capacity and developing specialized skills, ambitious infrastructure goals will remain unfulfilled. Authors George Asamani and Lavagnon Ika argue that the sophistication of capital-raising must be matched by equal rigor in project execution to ensure that investments lead to effective, long-term development outcomes. In Ghana, the practical realities of this execution challenge are evident in both the resumption of long-stalled projects and the pursuit of new international partnerships. After years of inactivity, construction has finally resumed on the 29.9-kilometer Bolgatanga-Sherigu-Naaga road. The contractor, ARACO Construction Limited, has completed 10 kilometers of prime seal work and commenced bituminous surfacing on another 15 kilometers. While the return of heavy equipment has brought relief to local farmers and traders who rely on the route for commerce, the project still faces hurdles typical of the execution gap, specifically historical delays related to payment certificates. Simultaneously, local authorities are seeking to circumvent these challenges through direct international cooperation. In the Atwima Kwanwoma District, District Chief Executive Mrs. Grace Agyemang Asamoah is actively pursuing partnerships with Italian water technology firms following a recent bilateral workshop in Accra. By focusing on technology transfer and sustainable infrastructure improvements, the district aims to address an increasing demand for potable water. Such initiatives reflect a growing recognition that closing the infrastructure gap requires not just funding, but the integration of modern technical expertise and reliable business partnerships. Ultimately, Africa’s path to economic growth is inextricably linked to its ability to move projects from the boardroom to the ground. Whether it is the completion of critical transport corridors in the Upper East Region or the expansion of water access in the Ashanti Region, the success of these endeavors hinges on resolving the systemic inefficiencies of the execution gap. As the continent looks toward 2035, the focus must remain on building a robust workforce of project professionals and refining institutional processes to ensure that every dollar pledged results in a better quality of life for its citizens.

President tasks ECOWAS to implement protocols on xenophobic attacks
africa|

President Mahama Urges Continental Action on South Africa Xenophobia Amid ICC Petition and Mass Repatriations

President John Dramani Mahama has called on the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take decisive action against the recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa. Speaking during a meeting with AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf in Accra, President Mahama emphasized that the attacks on foreign nationals, including Ghanaians and Nigerians, pose a significant threat to African integration. He disclosed that the Ghanaian government has incurred substantial financial costs chartering flights to evacuate its citizens, stressing the need for a coordinated continental response to address the trauma and economic strain inflicted on affected nations. In a parallel diplomatic move, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa dispatched a high-level delegation to Accra to engage with President Mahama regarding the unrest. During these discussions, President Mahama maintained that transparency and open dialogue are essential for resolving the crisis and fostering regional unity, rather than jeopardizing bilateral relations. He further addressed the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Sierra Leone, where he urged West African leaders to focus on the robust implementation of existing protocols and treaties to protect citizens across borders, rather than merely proposing new agreements. The crisis has also triggered legal and humanitarian responses at the international level. Two Ghanaian nationals, Palgrave Boakye-Danquah and Emmanuel Kotin, have filed a formal petition with the International Criminal Court (ICC), seeking a preliminary investigation into the violence as potential crimes against humanity. They allege that the South African government has failed in its duty to prevent the systemic targeting of African migrants. While South Africa's foreign affairs ministry has dismissed the petition as "opportunistic," the scale of the crisis is evidenced by the repatriation of over 100,000 Zimbabweans from South Africa amid the ongoing anti-immigration protests. Responding to the escalating tension, AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf has urged South African authorities to ensure that all immigration enforcement adheres strictly to the rule of law. He condemned the impunity of assailants and reiterated that while nations have the right to enforce domestic laws, they must protect the lives and dignity of all African nationals. As regional bodies face increasing pressure to intervene, the situation remains a critical test for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the broader vision of a borderless, integrated continent.