News News from Ghana

The latest news news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Sokoto Boat Tragedy Claims 48 Lives as Nsawam Female Inmates Showcase Vocational Skills
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Sokoto Boat Tragedy Claims 48 Lives as Nsawam Female Inmates Showcase Vocational Skills

A devastating maritime disaster has struck northwest Nigeria, where at least 48 people have been confirmed dead after an overloaded boat capsized on a river in Sokoto State. The incident occurred on a Thursday morning as several passengers were traveling to their respective rice farms. The local community remains in a state of shock and mourning as villagers began the somber task of burying their loved ones. Local resident Hussaini Shehu described the scene as devastating for the rural community, which relies heavily on the river for transport to agricultural lands. Preliminary reports suggest that the vessel was significantly overloaded, a recurring issue in regional river transport that continues to claim lives despite safety warnings. Search and recovery efforts have been ongoing since the capsize to account for all passengers. Meanwhile, in Ghana, efforts to rehabilitate and empower marginalized populations saw a positive turn at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison. Female inmates participated in a talent show organized by the Asare Bediako Foundation, focusing on vocational skill development. The event served as a platform for incarcerated women to demonstrate their proficiency in hairdressing, highlighting the creative potential that exists within the correctional system. Participants in the competition were tasked with completing complex hairstyles within a strict timeframe of one hour and thirty minutes. The foundation noted that the impressive quality of work showcased the inmates' readiness for reintegration into society through skilled labor. These initiatives are part of broader efforts to provide prisoners with sustainable livelihoods upon their release, reducing the likelihood of recidivism. These two distinct events highlight the diverse challenges and developments across West Africa—from the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols in rural transportation to the vital role of vocational training in social reform. As Sokoto state grapples with the aftermath of a massive loss of life, the activities at Nsawam Prisons underscore the ongoing importance of investment in human capital and rehabilitation infrastructure.

President Zelensky Condemns 'Despicable' Russian Double-Tap Strike on Kryvyi Rih Shopping Mall
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President Zelensky Condemns 'Despicable' Russian Double-Tap Strike on Kryvyi Rih Shopping Mall

Rescuers in the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih are working tirelessly through the wreckage of a shopping centre following a devastating Russian drone strike on Friday. The attack, which has claimed at least 16 lives and left 130 people injured, has drawn international condemnation for its perceived brutality. Local authorities confirmed that the strike employed a "double-tap" tactic—where a second projectile is fired shortly after the first to target emergency responders and survivors—resulting in widespread destruction and a high casualty count. Four individuals remain missing as recovery teams navigate the unstable ruins of the commercial complex. President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially condemned the assault, describing the strike as "despicable" and pointing specifically to the deliberate targeting of rescue workers. The search and recovery operation is expected to continue for at least another two days, hampered by the sheer volume of debris and the persistent threat of further aerial attacks. Emergency services have highlighted the complexity of the task, noting that the structural integrity of the mall was severely compromised by the successive explosions, making the search for the four missing persons particularly perilous. The strike on Kryvyi Rih is part of a broader escalation in hostilities, with overnight exchanges of fire reported across various fronts. These recent clashes have resulted in additional fatalities on both sides of the conflict, tragically including the deaths of two children. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the international community remains focused on the targeting of civilian infrastructure. The ongoing recovery efforts in Kryvyi Rih serve as a somber reminder of the conflict's heavy toll on non-combatants and the escalating nature of the military tactics being deployed.

Father Reprimanded After Abandoning Seven-Year-Old Son on Mount Fuji to Continue Hike
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Father Reprimanded After Abandoning Seven-Year-Old Son on Mount Fuji to Continue Hike

A father in Japan has faced a severe police reprimand after leaving his seven-year-old son alone on Mount Fuji for approximately eight hours to continue his ascent. The incident occurred on the mountain's Fujinomiya route, a popular path known for its accessibility but also for its unpredictable weather conditions. The child was reportedly left at an altitude of about 2,000 meters with only a soft drink and a snack to sustain him while his father proceeded toward the summit with another, older son. According to reports, the situation arose when the seven-year-old complained of being too tired to continue the climb. Instead of concluding the family trek or seeking proper shelter for the boy, the father instructed him to wait on a bench and continued the hike. The young child was eventually discovered by staff at a nearby mountain hut. At the time of his rescue, conditions on the mountain were described as foggy, and the boy was found to be in a state of significant distress after waiting nearly a full day for his family's return. Local authorities expressed strong disapproval of the father's actions, emphasizing the extreme risks associated with leaving a minor unattended in a mountain environment. Police highlighted that child safety must remain the primary concern for hikers, particularly on a mountain as high and potentially dangerous as Mount Fuji. The father was cautioned about the gravity of his decision, which put the young child at risk of exposure and other mountain-related hazards. This incident has renewed concerns regarding safety on Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage site that frequently sees climbing mishaps due to its high volume of visitors and varied weather patterns. Officials have noted a rise in accidents in recent years, often attributed to inadequate preparation or poor decision-making by hikers. This case serves as a stark reminder to the public about the importance of respecting the physical limits of all group members and the legal responsibilities of parents in high-risk environments.

NPA Deputy Chief Ecxecutive Dr Dramani Bukari laid to rest
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Dr Dramani Bukari and Dr Isaac Bampoe Addo Honoured Following Recent Losses in Ghana's Public Sector

The Ghanaian public service and organized labor communities are reflecting on the significant contributions of two prominent leaders following the recent burial of Dr. Dramani Bukari, Deputy Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), and the remembered passing of Dr. Isaac Bampoe Addo, the former Executive Secretary of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG). These figures played pivotal roles in their respective sectors, leaving behind legacies of dedication and leadership that have resonated across the nation’s administrative landscape. In Damongo, the final funeral rites for Dr. Dramani Bukari were held on August 20, 2026, marking the end of a distinguished career in the energy sector. Dr. Bukari, who passed away on August 11, 2026, after a brief illness, was laid to rest in accordance with Islamic traditions. The ceremony included a Janazah prayer and a sermon delivered by the Islamic clergy, attended by family members, NPA staff, and colleagues. Dr. Bukari was widely recognized for his leadership and commitment to the NPA, where his efforts were instrumental in shaping policies within the petroleum industry. This loss follows the earlier passing of another titan in Ghanaian public administration, Dr. Isaac Bampoe Addo. The labor community was thrown into a state of shock on October 6, 2023, when the Executive Secretary of CLOGSAG was pronounced dead after a short illness. Edmund Acquaye, the Public Relations Officer for CLOGSAG, confirmed the news at the time, sparking an outpouring of grief from workers across the country. Dr. Bampoe Addo was a fierce advocate for the rights of civil and local government employees, often serving as the primary voice for thousands of workers in negotiations with the government. The departures of both Dr. Bukari and Dr. Bampoe Addo represent significant transitions for their respective organizations. While Dr. Bukari's passing in 2026 occurred during the current administration of President John Mahama, his contributions to the petroleum sector remain a blueprint for his successors. Similarly, Dr. Bampoe Addo’s legacy continues to influence the strategies of organized labor. Together, these two leaders exemplify the high level of expertise and devotion that characterizes Ghana’s public service, and their impact on the nation’s development continues to be honored by colleagues and citizens alike.

Police gun down 3 robbery suspects over GH¢430,000 Buipe cattle market incident
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Ghana Police Neutralize Three Robbery Suspects in GH430,000 Buipe Heist as Court Jails Plantain Thief

In a series of significant law enforcement and judicial actions across Ghana, the Ghana Police Service neutralized three suspected armed robbers in the Savannah Region, while a circuit court in the Eastern Region handed down a prison sentence for theft. These incidents highlight the ongoing efforts of the nation's security agencies and the judiciary to maintain law and order under the current administration of President John Mahama. The most high-profile case involved a deadly shootout following a massive heist at the Buipe Cattle Market, whereas the second case addressed a local theft in Nuaso Newtown, illustrating the varying scales of criminal activity currently being addressed by the state. The Ghana Police Service reported that three members of a notorious robbery gang were killed during a fierce exchange of gunfire in the Savannah Region. The suspects were linked to a major robbery on June 29, 2026, at the Buipe Cattle Market, where approximately GH430,000 was stolen and two Mobile Money vendors were attacked. This breakthrough followed intensive surveillance and the previous arrest of Yacouba Oumar on July 23, who provided critical information that led the police to his accomplices. During the operation, several firearms believed to have been used in the initial robbery were recovered. Police are currently pursuing the final known member of the gang, identified as Alhaji Yacouba, and have urged the public to provide any information that could lead to his capture. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Region, the Odumase-Krobo Circuit Court has sentenced 35-year-old Anani Bakar to four weeks in prison. Bakar, an unemployed resident of Kpong Zongo, pleaded guilty to stealing a bundle of plantain in Nuaso Newtown. The court found him in violation of Section 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). While the scale of the crime differs vastly from the violent robbery in Buipe, the sentencing underscores the judiciary's role in enforcing the law at all levels of society. The swift resolution of the case reflects the court's commitment to addressing petty theft and maintaining community order through the strict application of the law. These developments come at a time when national security remains a top priority for the government. The successful police operation in the Savannah Region is seen as a major victory against organized crime in the northern corridor, while the judicial outcome in Odumase-Krobo serves as a reminder of the legal consequences for criminal behavior regardless of the value of the stolen goods. As investigations continue into the remaining suspects of the Buipe robbery, the Ghana Police Service maintains its heightened state of alert to ensure the safety of citizens and their properties across the country, reinforcing the message that no criminal act will go unpunished.

Algerian and South African Authorities Execute Major Narcotics Crackdown Amid Global Enforcement Operations
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Algerian and South African Authorities Execute Major Narcotics Crackdown Amid Global Enforcement Operations

Law enforcement agencies across the African continent and internationally have reported significant breakthroughs in the fight against narcotics trafficking and illegal drug manufacturing. From a massive seizure of psychotropic substances in Algeria to the dismantling of a multi-million-dollar meth laboratory in South Africa, authorities are intensifying efforts to curb the flow of illegal drugs. These operations underscore the growing challenge of both traditional narcotics like cocaine and the rising misuse of pharmaceutical drugs for recreational purposes, highlighting a coordinated push to disrupt illicit supply chains. In Algeria, national police recently publicized the results of a high-stakes operation that netted approximately 33 kilograms of cocaine. Perhaps more alarming was the discovery of over 10 million capsules of pregabalin, a psychotropic medication originally designed to treat epilepsy. While pregabalin is a legitimate pharmaceutical, its recreational use has surged globally due to its euphoric effects. Algerian authorities released video evidence of the bust to emphasize the scale of the pharmaceutical-grade drug threat currently facing the North African nation and its neighbors. Simultaneously, the South African Police Service achieved a major victory in Limpopo province, where they uncovered a sophisticated crystal methamphetamine manufacturing operation on a rural farm. Acting on intelligence, officers raided the facility and arrested five individuals linked to the illicit production line. The value of the seized drugs and specialized laboratory equipment is estimated at over $37 million, making it one of the most significant busts in recent South African history. An undisclosed amount of cash was also recovered during the raid, signaling the substantial financial scale of the operation. Beyond these large-scale African operations, drug-related law enforcement actions have also touched the entertainment industry in the United States. Dallas rapper BigXthaPlug, legally known as Xavier Landum, was arrested in Texas by the Allen County Police. The artist was taken into custody following a traffic stop and faces multiple charges, including driving while intoxicated, possession of marijuana, and illegal possession of a firearm. He is currently being held at the Collin County Jail as the legal process unfolds. These diverse cases illustrate the multi-faceted nature of the global drug trade, ranging from localized street-level offenses to industrial-scale manufacturing and international trafficking rings. As authorities in Algeria and South Africa continue to process suspects and evidence from their respective major busts, the focus remains on dismantling the financial networks that fuel addiction and crime. The scale of these recent seizures highlights the ongoing necessity for vigilant local policing and international cooperation in addressing the proliferation of both synthetic stimulants and diverted medical supplies.

Alhaji Ali Seidu (2nd from left), the Founder of Maripoma Enterprise Limited, taking Governs Kwame Agbodza (2nd from right), Minister of Roads and Highways, his deputy, Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini (left), and other dignitaries round to inspect the progress of work on the Accra-Tema Motorway project. Picture: Nana Konadu Agyeman
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Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza Highlights Progress on Accra-Tema Motorway as National Infrastructure Projects Advance

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has reported significant progress on Ghana's major road infrastructure projects, headlined by the Accra-Tema Motorway reconstruction reaching the 50 percent completion mark. This milestone is part of a broader national effort to modernize the country's transport network, facilitating smoother transit for goods and commuters. From the industrial hubs of Greater Accra to the agricultural corridors of the Oti Region, the government is prioritizing high-impact roadworks to stimulate socio-economic growth and improve national connectivity. The Accra-Tema Motorway project, a critical artery for national commerce, is being transformed into a 10-lane dual carriageway designed with a 25-year lifespan. According to Kwabena Bempong, CEO of Associated Consultant Ltd, the 19.5-kilometer stretch includes the replacement of aging steel bridges and the installation of 10 new footbridges. During a recent site inspection, Minister Agbodza emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum, urging contractors to adopt a 24-hour work policy and efficient resource management to ensure the project meets its deadlines while addressing long-standing drainage and flood management issues. Parallel to the motorway expansion, construction continues on the Winneba Junction Interchange, a key component of the government's "Big Push" Infrastructure Programme. While the project is designed to drastically improve traffic flow and road safety at one of the country's busiest intersections, it has presented temporary challenges for motorists and local businesses. Commuters have reported delays and dust-related issues due to necessary diversions and rough terrain. Despite these short-term inconveniences, road users and commercial drivers remain optimistic that the completed interchange will significantly reduce travel times and vehicle maintenance costs. Beyond the major highways, local connectivity is also receiving critical attention, particularly in the Oti Region. In the Nkwanta North District, the Kpassa–Merimeri road is undergoing intensive filling and leveling works to enhance accessibility. District Chief Executive Isaiah Kudjoe Dordoe, who recently inspected the site, noted that these improvements are vital for farmers and traders who have long struggled with impassable roads during the rainy season. By addressing potholes and improving drainage, the initiative aims to prevent vehicle breakdowns and better integrate rural communities into the national economy. These diverse projects reflect the administration's comprehensive approach to infrastructure development, balancing large-scale urban engineering with essential rural road improvements. As the Accra-Tema Motorway enters its final phases and regional interchanges take shape, the government remains focused on delivering durable, high-quality road networks. The Ministry of Roads and Highways continues to monitor these sites closely, ensuring that the transition from construction-related disruption to enhanced accessibility is managed effectively for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

Land Dispute in Achiase Turns Fatal as 24-Year-Old Suspect Arrested for Alleged Stabbing Death of Augustine Boah
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Land Dispute in Achiase Turns Fatal as 24-Year-Old Suspect Arrested for Alleged Stabbing Death of Augustine Boah

A violent land dispute in Achiase, located within the Prestea Huni Valley Municipality, resulted in the tragic death of a local resident, Augustine Boah, on August 20, 2026. The incident, which has shocked the community near Aboso, allegedly involved a fatal stabbing following an escalation of long-standing tensions between two families. Authorities have confirmed the arrest of the primary suspect, 24-year-old Kofi Yena, popularly known as "Pogba," as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing commence. The fatal encounter reportedly began over a disagreement regarding a pathway or tricycle route on contested land. According to reports, the conflict was not an isolated event but rather the culmination of historical friction between the victim's and the suspect's families. On the day of the incident, Yena is alleged to have confronted Boah following a prior warning related to the use of the route. The verbal altercation quickly turned physical, ending in the suspect allegedly using a pair of scissors to inflict fatal wounds on Boah. Following the attack, emergency measures were unable to save Boah, whose remains have since been transported to the Tarkwa Municipal Hospital morgue for preservation and an autopsy. The incident has reportedly sparked significant tension between the bereaved family and the suspect’s relatives in Achiase. Local police moved swiftly to apprehend Yena to prevent further retaliatory violence and have since processed him for further investigation. This tragic event highlights the volatile nature of land-related conflicts in Ghana’s rural and peri-urban areas, which frequently escalate into violence when mediation fails. As the Prestea Huni Valley police continue their inquiry, community leaders may need to intervene to de-escalate the rising family tensions caused by the killing. The suspect remains in custody and is expected to face charges once the police conclude their preliminary findings and prepare the case for court.

Navrongo Community Expresses Outrage After 45-Year-Old Man Assaults 90-Year-Old Aunt Over Witchcraft Allegations
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Navrongo Community Expresses Outrage After 45-Year-Old Man Assaults 90-Year-Old Aunt Over Witchcraft Allegations

A 45-year-old man, identified as Apana Awasiaku, has sparked national outrage after allegedly assaulting his 90-year-old aunt, Atima Alugu, in Navrongo, Upper East Region, following accusations of witchcraft. The brutal incident, which was captured on video, occurred late last month and has ignited a heated debate regarding the protection of vulnerable elderly citizens and the adequacy of legal penalties for such crimes in Ghana. According to reports from JoyNews and local sources, the suspect confronted Mrs. Alugu at her residence, where she lived alone. Mr. Awasiaku allegedly claimed he was acting under divine direction from God to confront her about her supposed witchcraft. Despite the victim's desperate screams for help, the assault continued until a neighbor intervened to stop the violence. The video evidence of the attack, which circulated within the community, underscored the severity of the physical abuse directed at the nonagenarian. Although the matter was reported to the police and subsequently processed through the court system, the legal resolution has been met with significant criticism from the family and the wider community. Mr. Awasiaku was ordered to pay GH¢2,000 in compensation, a sum the family argues is woefully insufficient given the traumatic nature of the assault. Relatives have accused the local police of mishandling the case, expressing deep frustration that the perpetrator remains free while the victim's life has been permanently disrupted. In the aftermath of the attack, Mrs. Alugu has been forced to relocate to live with her grandchildren due to ongoing safety concerns and the trauma of the event. This case highlights the persistent threat faced by elderly women in some regions of Ghana who are targeted by harmful witchcraft accusations. Human rights advocates and community leaders are calling for more stringent legal protections and a re-evaluation of how such cases are prosecuted to ensure meaningful justice for the vulnerable.

Rev. Wengam re-elected General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana
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Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam Re-elected General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana with Overwhelming Majority

Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam has been overwhelmingly re-elected as the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, during the church’s 32nd Biennial General Council Meeting in Gomoa Fetteh. Rev. Wengam secured a resounding mandate, garnering 3,727 votes, which represents approximately 89.61% of the total valid votes cast. His contender, Rev. Dr. Kwame B. Bansah, received 432 votes, or 10.39%. This decisive victory initiates a new four-year term for Rev. Wengam, signaling strong internal support for his ongoing leadership and the church's strategic direction. The election also solidified the church’s broader executive leadership team for the upcoming term. Key appointments include Rev. Dr. Kwadwo Bempah as the Assistant General Superintendent and Rev. Dr. Albert Anane as the General Secretary. The voting process involved 4,166 total votes with only seven ballots rejected, reflecting a peaceful and transparent electoral process. The newly formed leadership team is tasked with overseeing the spiritual and administrative functions of one of Ghana’s largest Pentecostal denominations. In his acceptance speech, Rev. Wengam called for renewed unity and cooperation among members, stressing that collective effort is vital for the church's 'transformation agenda.' He committed to serving the membership with diligence and transparency, urging the congregation to focus on church growth and community impact. Rev. Wengam emphasized that his second term would build upon the foundations laid during his first tenure, focusing on modernizing the church’s operations and expanding its reach. Strategic projects remain at the forefront of Rev. Wengam’s new term, most notably the Centenary City Project, which is intended to mark the 100th anniversary of the Assemblies of God in Ghana. Additionally, the church is gearing up to host the World Assemblies of God Fellowship Congress in October 2026. This global event will host delegates from around the world in Ghana, providing a platform for international collaboration and highlighting the growth of the Assemblies of God on the African continent.

VIDEO from Ejisu: How a suspected car thief tried to run away and ended up running over a crowd
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Suspected Robber Arrested After Crashing Stolen Taxi into Shops and Fleeing Mob at Ejisu

Police in the Ashanti Region have arrested a suspected armed robber following a dramatic and failed attempt to snatch a taxi at the Ejisu traffic junction on Saturday. The incident, which quickly escalated as a crowd gathered to intervene, resulted in the suspect crashing the stolen vehicle and attempting to flee on foot before being taken into custody. The chaotic scene was partially captured on video and has since circulated widely on social media, highlighting the volatile nature of the encounter and the swift response of both the public and law enforcement. According to eyewitness accounts and police reports, the suspect targeted a Toyota Corolla taxi with registration number GT 1557-16. After attacking the driver and seizing control of the vehicle, the suspect found himself surrounded by an alert mob of bystanders and traders who moved to block his escape. In a desperate attempt to maneuver the car out of the encroaching crowd, the suspect reversed at high speed, ultimately crashing into nearby shops and market stalls. While some initial accounts suggested that individuals in the crowd may have been run over during the frantic getaway attempt, other reports indicate that no serious injuries or casualties were recorded. Following the collision, the suspect abandoned the damaged vehicle and fled the scene on foot. Seeking refuge from the pursuing mob, he reportedly took cover inside a nearby mobile money container. Officers from the Ejisu Police Station arrived swiftly at the scene, managing to extract the suspect from the container and rescue him from the angry crowd that had gathered with the intent of administering mob justice. The police intervention was critical in preventing a potential lynching, and the suspect was subsequently moved to the station for questioning. Investigations into the robbery attempt are currently ongoing as authorities work to establish the full sequence of events and assess the extent of the property damage caused to the local shops. The incident has sparked renewed discussions regarding security at major traffic intersections and the risks associated with public interventions during criminal acts. Police officials have commended the public for their vigilance but continue to urge citizens to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing the importance of allowing the judicial system to take its course.

GRIDCo Schedules 15-Hour Power Outage Across Greater Accra for Critical Transmission Tower Repairs
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GRIDCo Schedules 15-Hour Power Outage Across Greater Accra for Critical Transmission Tower Repairs

The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) has announced a significant 15-hour power interruption scheduled for Sunday, August 23, 2026, affecting several major communities across the Greater Accra Region. The outage, which is expected to run from 3:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., is necessary to facilitate emergency repairs on a transmission tower located along the 161kV Tema-Achimota transmission line. The infrastructure was severely damaged at the Ashaiman section following a tanker explosion caused by a welding incident, necessitating a complete replacement of the affected tower to ensure the continued stability of the national grid. Residents and businesses in both the Accra East and Accra West operational areas of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) will be impacted by the exercise. Specific communities identified include James Town, Mamprobi, Nima Township, Kanda, Madina Township, and surrounding environs. GRIDCo has emphasized that the 15-hour window is critical for the safe completion of the technical works, and the company is collaborating closely with the ECG to manage the load and mitigate the impact on essential services during the repair period. In addition to the emergency works in Accra, the Electricity Company of Ghana has also scheduled a series of separate maintenance exercises in the Tema and Ashanti regions. These maintenance activities are slated for August 22, 25, and 26, with planned outages lasting between three and eight hours. Communities such as Sege, Koluador, and Abankeseso are among those expected to experience temporary disruptions. These routine maintenance works are part of a broader effort by the ECG to improve service delivery and upgrade aging infrastructure to prevent unplanned outages in the future. Both GRIDCo and ECG have expressed regret for the inconvenience these planned and emergency interruptions will cause to the public. Officials have urged residents in the affected areas to take the necessary precautions and plan their activities accordingly for the duration of the works. The power utility companies have requested the patience and cooperation of all stakeholders as they work to restore the integrity of the transmission system and enhance the reliability of the electricity supply across the country.