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.

Musah Ahmed directs registrars to use digital tools for court adjournments
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Musah Ahmed directs registrars to use digital tools for court adjournments

The Judicial Secretary, Musah Ahmed, has issued a mandatory directive to all court registrars and clerks across the country to adopt digital communication channels for notifying lawyers and litigants of court adjournments. This move requires judicial staff to use WhatsApp, SMS, and email to provide immediate updates whenever a scheduled sitting is cancelled or postponed. The directive is aimed at modernising the communication protocols within the judicial system and ending the era where stakeholders only discover an adjournment upon arriving at the court premises. Under the new protocols, registrars are now tasked with the responsibility of maintaining accurate and updated contact information for all legal representatives appearing before their respective courts. This database will serve as the foundation for the rapid dissemination of information through efficient digital channels. The circular issued by the Judicial Secretary makes it clear that the Judicial Service will not tolerate negligence in this regard, warning that registrars who fail to comply with the directive or who cause unnecessary inconvenience to stakeholders through delayed communication may face disciplinary actions. The decision follows long-standing complaints from the legal community and the general public regarding the financial burden and frustration associated with unannounced adjournments. Many litigants travel long distances, often at significant personal and financial cost, only to find that their cases have been rescheduled without prior notice. By leveraging modern technology, the Judicial Service aims to mitigate these losses and improve the overall efficiency and accessibility of the justice delivery system, ensuring that the time and resources of all stakeholders are respected.

Qantas grounds Boeing 787 Dreamliner after bedbug outbreak
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Qantas grounds Boeing 787 Dreamliner after bedbug outbreak

Qantas has grounded a Boeing 787 Dreamliner for a deep cleaning following reports of a bedbug outbreak on a long-haul flight. The decision led to the cancellation of a return flight from Rome, Italy, to Australia after passengers on the preceding leg from Perth reported suffering from insect bites. The airline confirmed the aircraft would remain out of service until a specialized cleaning process could be completed to ensure the pests are entirely eliminated. During the initial flight from Perth to Rome, several passengers alerted the crew to the presence of bedbugs after being bitten. While flight attendants provided antihistamines to those affected, reports indicate that the medication supply quickly ran out due to the number of complaints. Upon landing in Italy, the aircraft was inspected, leading to the immediate grounding of the Dreamliner to prevent further spread or discomfort to subsequent passengers. The cancellation left many travelers stranded in Rome, waiting for alternative arrangements. Qantas issued a formal apology to the affected customers and provided hotel accommodations and meals during the delay. The airline worked to rebook passengers on replacement flights, with most travelers continuing their journeys within 48 hours of the scheduled departure. Bedbug infestations pose a unique logistical challenge for airlines because the insects can easily hide in seat upholstery, carpets, and cracks in the cabin interior. This incident mirrors recent pest control challenges faced by other international transport operators and highlights the rigorous protocols required to maintain hygiene standards on long-duration international flights.

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UKMTO reports tanker hit by unidentified projectile in Strait of Hormuz

A commercial oil tanker has been struck by an unidentified projectile while navigating the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). Despite the impact, early assessments indicate that the vessel sustained manageable damage and the entire crew has been reported safe. The incident occurred in one of the world's most critical maritime corridors, heightening fears over the safety of commercial shipping in the Middle East. The UKMTO, which serves as a primary point of contact for merchant ships and provides maritime security information, confirmed the strike but did not immediately identify the source or nature of the projectile. The agency has advised vessels transiting the area to exercise extreme caution and report any suspicious activity. This latest attack adds to a growing list of maritime security breaches in the region, where the narrow strait serves as a vital chokepoint for approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil consumption. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have escalated significantly since late February, coinciding with broader regional conflicts that have disrupted global trade routes. Iranian actions have increasingly led to disruptions in maritime activity, prompting the United States military to engage with Iranian vessels on several occasions in recent months. The waterway remains a primary flashpoint for geopolitical friction, as international naval forces struggle to maintain the free flow of commerce against a backdrop of unconventional warfare and missile strikes. This strike highlights the persistent vulnerability of global energy supply chains to regional instability. As shipping companies face rising insurance premiums and heightened security risks, the international community continues to monitor the situation for signs of further escalation. The incident underscores the fragility of the maritime environment in the Gulf region, where even targeted attacks can have profound impacts on global energy markets and international security protocols.

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Russian airstrikes kill at least 20 people in Zaporizhzhya

At least 20 people, including three children, have been confirmed dead following a series of intensive Russian airstrikes targeting the Zaporizhzhya region of Ukraine. The strikes hit multiple locations, causing widespread destruction to residential areas and critical infrastructure. Local emergency services reported that many other civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries during the bombardment, with medical facilities in the area working at full capacity to treat the victims. The attack marks one of the deadliest incidents in the region in recent weeks, drawing international attention to the mounting civilian toll of the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has vehemently condemned the attacks, characterizing the bombardment as a deliberate campaign of terror against innocent civilians. In a public address, the President confirmed that search and rescue operations are ongoing at the sites of the explosions, with specialized teams and volunteers working tirelessly to clear the rubble. Zelensky emphasized that the loss of life, particularly that of children, highlights the urgent need for enhanced air defense capabilities and international support to protect Ukrainian cities from such aerial assaults. The incident in Zaporizhzhya occurred as part of a wider escalation in the ongoing war, with both sides intensifying their military operations. Following the strikes, Ukrainian forces launched a series of retaliatory drone attacks against Russia’s Rostov region, where infrastructure and residential buildings were reportedly damaged. Additionally, Russian officials claimed to have intercepted 560 Ukrainian drones during an attempted offensive on Moscow. This cycle of heavy airstrikes and retaliatory drone missions continues to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, as both nations engage in high-stakes military exchanges that increasingly impact civilian zones.

Volodymyr Zelensky reports Russian strikes on six Ukrainian energy sites
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Volodymyr Zelensky reports Russian strikes on six Ukrainian energy sites

President Volodymyr Zelensky has reported that Russian forces launched strikes on six energy facilities across Ukraine, a move that directly contradicts recent claims of an immediate energy ceasefire. This development follows an announcement by United States President Donald Trump regarding a cessation of hostilities targeting energy infrastructure between the two nations. The attacks resulted in widespread blackouts and several reported injuries, which Zelensky characterized as a clear refusal by Moscow to comply with any halt in hostilities. The strikes specifically targeted critical infrastructure in various regions, leading to a new wave of power cuts that have strained the country's national grid. According to the Ukrainian presidency, the deliberate nature of the attacks demonstrates that Russia is not prepared to stop its campaign against civilian energy supplies, despite the diplomatic assertions coming from Washington. Zelensky noted that these actions undermine international efforts to stabilize the energy sector, which has been a primary target throughout the ongoing conflict. The geopolitical situation has been further complicated by the specific details surrounding the proposed ceasefire. US President Trump had suggested that Ukraine should halt its own strikes on Russian oil facilities as part of a broader deal that could potentially include diesel supplies. However, the continuation of Russian aerial campaigns against Ukrainian power plants suggests that any agreement reached in principle has not yet translated into a tangible reduction of hostilities on the ground. International reactions to the strikes have been mixed, with many leaders expressing skepticism regarding Russia's willingness to adhere to diplomatic agreements. While the prospect of an energy truce was initially seen as a possible step toward de-escalation, the destruction of the six facilities has reinforced calls for more robust defense measures for Ukraine. As local authorities work to repair the damaged infrastructure and restore power, the future of international mediation in the conflict remains under significant pressure.

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United Nations report warns gender equality will take 171 years

A new United Nations (UN) report, titled Gender Snapshot 2026, warns that the world is significantly off track to achieve gender parity, with the current pace of progress suggesting it will take an estimated 171 years to reach equality. The findings reveal that none of the indicators related to Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), which targets the empowerment of all women and girls, are currently on course to meet the 2030 deadline. This stagnation represents a major setback for global development and highlights the persistent nature of gender-based disparities across multiple sectors. The report emphasizes the systemic barriers that continue to exclude women from significant political and economic power. In the political sphere, power remains overwhelmingly concentrated in the hands of men, with women largely sidelined from the most influential decision-making roles. Critical ministerial portfolios, such as defense and finance, are highlighted as being predominantly male-dominated, which limits the diversity of perspectives in high-level policy formulation and reinforces traditional power structures. Beyond political representation, the UN document points to a worsening environment for women's safety and legal rights. Millions of women globally continue to face high levels of violence and discrimination, while legal frameworks intended to protect their rights remain insufficient or poorly enforced in many jurisdictions. Adding to these challenges is a sharp decline in financial resources; funding for gender equality initiatives has decreased drastically, further hampering the ability of organizations and governments to implement effective reforms. To rectify this trajectory, the United Nations stresses the urgent need for renewed institutional support and massive investment in gender equality programs. The report concludes that without a significant shift in policy and a dedicated increase in resources, the objectives of the 2030 Agenda will remain out of reach. The UN calls on member states to prioritize gender parity as a core component of their national development strategies to accelerate progress and reduce the 171-year wait for equality.

DVLA expands nationwide offices from 33 to 63 in two years
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DVLA expands nationwide network from 33 to 63 offices

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has significantly bolstered its operational footprint across Ghana, nearly doubling its number of offices from 33 to 63 within a two-year period. This strategic expansion is designed to decentralise service delivery and make driver and vehicle licensing more accessible to the public, particularly in underserved regions. Speaking at a press briefing, the Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, highlighted that this growth reflects the authority's commitment to modernising its reach and reducing the travel time citizens face when seeking essential documentation. Of the 30 newly established locations, 12 are fully owned and operated by the DVLA. The remaining 18 are "ultra-centres," which have been set up through strategic partnerships with the private sector. These ultra-centres are designed to provide high-end, efficient services, leveraging private investment to supplement the authority's capacity. This public-private partnership model has allowed the DVLA to scale its operations more rapidly than would have been possible through state funding alone, providing a blueprint for modernising public service delivery through collaboration. Beyond the current total of 63 offices, Mr. Kotey indicated that the expansion project remains a work in progress, with further construction work currently underway in various parts of the country. The ongoing infrastructure developments are expected to further streamline the acquisition of driver's licenses and vehicle registrations, ultimately reducing congestion and wait times at existing hubs. By bringing these services directly into local communities, the DVLA aims to enhance compliance with road traffic regulations and improve the overall transparency and efficiency of transport administration throughout Ghana.

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DVLA processes 444,000 license applications to clear 2023 backlog

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has successfully cleared its long-standing licensing backlog by processing over 444,000 applications. Chief Executive Officer Julius Neequaye Kotey announced on October 12, 2025, that the authority has resolved the accumulated requests dating back to 2023. This achievement was realized through a strategic 24-hour printing initiative designed to maximize technical capacity and eliminate delays that have historically inconvenienced motorists across Ghana. During a press briefing, Mr. Kotey explained that the continuous printing operation allowed the authority to catch up with the significant volume of outstanding cards within a shortened timeframe. The backlog had been a major concern for drivers who faced extended waiting periods for their physical licenses. By transitioning to a round-the-clock schedule, the DVLA ensured that nearly half a million applicants will now receive their official documentation, bringing the system up to date by the end of 2025. In addition to clearing the backlog, the DVLA has introduced an instant license printing machine specifically for replacement cards. This new technology is available for applicants whose licenses have expired after the standard six-year validity period. This measure aims to decentralize the issuance process, allowing for the immediate delivery of cards and reducing the administrative burden on centralized printing facilities. Mr. Kotey emphasized that these improvements would not come at the expense of safety or regulatory standards. New applicants are still required to follow all existing licensing protocols, including mandatory testing and verification. This modernization effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance service delivery and restore public confidence in the authority's ability to manage driver documentation efficiently.

DVLA registers 7,700 excavators to improve vehicle tracking
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DVLA registers 7,700 excavators to improve vehicle tracking

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has successfully registered more than 7,700 excavators across the country as part of a strategic initiative to enhance vehicle verification and monitoring. This exercise, conducted in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, is designed to track the movement of heavy machinery and ensure all such equipment is properly documented within the national database. The initiative reflects a broader effort to streamline the oversight of machinery used in the extractive and construction sectors. Chief Executive of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, explained that the registration drive aims to address long-standing challenges in monitoring heavy equipment, which has historically been difficult to track. By creating a comprehensive registry, the authority can now monitor excavator movements more effectively, helping to prevent the use of unregistered machinery in unauthorized activities. This collaborative framework ensures that both the DVLA and the Minerals Commission have real-time data on the deployment of these assets. Parallel to the excavator registration, the DVLA has intensified its enforcement against customs irregularities to protect national revenue. The authority recently impounded 357 vehicles suspected of having evaded customs duties or being involved in vehicle cloning schemes. To bolster these efforts, the DVLA has introduced on-board diagnostic (OBD) devices. These electronic tools allow officials to verify vehicle identification numbers (VINs) instantly, significantly reducing the possibility of registering improperly cleared or cloned vehicles. The 357 impounded vehicles have been handed over to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for further investigation and to ensure that all outstanding taxes and duties are recovered. Mr. Kotey emphasized that these measures are part of a continuous effort to improve the integrity of the national vehicle registry and enhance public safety. The ongoing cooperation between the DVLA, the Minerals Commission, and the GRA highlights a multi-agency approach to strengthening law enforcement and revenue collection within Ghana's transport sector.

DVLA will start 24-hour services in Kumasi and Takoradi by 2027
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DVLA will start 24-hour services in Kumasi and Takoradi by 2027

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is scheduled to extend its 24-hour service operations to Kumasi and Takoradi by January 2027. Chief Executive Officer Julius Neequaye Kotey confirmed the timeline for this expansion, noting that the move is designed to provide vehicle owners and drivers with more flexible options for accessing essential licensing services. This transition marks a significant step in the authority’s efforts to decentralize and modernize its operational framework across Ghana's major urban centers. The initiative builds upon the existing 24-hour service model already operational at the Adenta and Tema Port offices. Mr. Kotey explained that the DVLA is currently in the process of assessing 14 additional offices nationwide to evaluate their suitability for round-the-clock operations. Among these, the offices in Kumasi and Takoradi have been confirmed as the next locations to undergo this transition, following successful technical and logistical reviews. The authority is focused on ensuring that these branches are equipped to handle the increased operational demands of a continuous service cycle. This expansion is a strategic alignment with the government's broader vision of establishing a 24-hour economy under the administration of President John Mahama. By enabling services outside of traditional business hours, the DVLA aims to reduce wait times, decrease congestion at physical offices, and support the productivity of transport operators who rely on these services for their livelihoods. As the January 2027 deadline approaches, the authority intends to continue its review of other regional offices to determine where further extensions of the 24-hour model may be feasible.

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DVLA launches simulator testing for driver's licence applicants

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has officially introduced a virtual simulator testing system to modernize the driver's licence application process and improve overall road safety across Ghana. This new initiative allows prospective drivers to undergo rigorous virtual assessments, measuring their reactions and decision-making skills in a controlled environment before they are permitted to operate vehicles on public roads. The rollout is part of a comprehensive strategy to integrate technology into the licensing framework, ensuring that all new motorists meet high standards of competence. Speaking at a press briefing to announce the launch, the Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, emphasized that the simulator is designed to adapt to modern driving conditions and challenges. The system exposes applicants to a wide range of road scenarios, including hazardous weather and emergency traffic situations, which are difficult to replicate during standard on-road tests. By analyzing how applicants respond to these virtual challenges, the DVLA can provide more accurate and objective evaluations of their readiness to drive. This modernization effort is expected to significantly reduce road accidents caused by human error and poorly trained drivers. By identifying potential risks early in the licensing process, the DVLA aims to foster a new generation of more disciplined and safety-conscious motorists. The implementation of simulator testing marks a pivotal step in the authority's ongoing reforms to streamline operations and enhance the integrity of the licence issuance process in Ghana.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (left), Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Rev. Dr Stephen Wengam (right), General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, in a chat while their team members look on
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Assemblies of God World Fellowship opens 10th World Congress in Accra

The 10th Triennial Congress of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship has officially opened in Accra, marking the first time this prestigious global gathering has been held on the African continent. President John Mahama is scheduled to formally open the three-day event, which is being held under the theme "Commissioned-One Mandate, Every Nation." The congress has brought together over 1,000 delegates from across the globe to deliberate on the growth of the movement and its strategic mandate for global evangelization. The congress features a dual-location program designed to accommodate both leadership sessions and public worship. Pastors and church leaders are meeting for specialized sessions at the Black Star Square during the day, while the evenings feature revival rallies at the Accra Sports Stadium that are open to the general public. Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, noted that the gathering also coincides with the 115th anniversary of the global movement, adding historical significance to the event in Accra. Ghana’s selection as the host for this landmark congress was influenced by the country’s enduring peace, political stability, and the established strength of the local church. The Minister of Foreign Affairs has pledged the government’s full support for the proceedings, emphasizing that the event offers both spiritual benefits and economic opportunities for the nation. Rev. Wengam emphasized that hosting the world body reinforces Ghana’s role as a pivotal hub for the church’s activities in the West African sub-region and the wider continent. Beyond the immediate celebrations, the congress serves as a critical platform for the fellowship to refine its global mission of reaching every nation. By convening in Africa for the first time, the World Assemblies of God Fellowship acknowledges the vital importance and growth of the African church within the denomination’s international structure. The discussions and resolutions from this 10th Congress are expected to shape the movement’s evangelical strategies and international cooperation for the next triennium.