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.

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Ghana’s Deputy Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sanni Jajah Passes Away

Ghana’s diplomatic community is mourning the loss of Sanni Jajah, the nation’s Deputy Head of Mission and Deputy Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. His passing, reported in early October 2023, represents a significant loss for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ghanaian government. As a key diplomatic figure stationed in Riyadh, Jajah was central to maintaining the robust bilateral relationship between Ghana and Saudi Arabia, providing a vital link for both political dialogue and economic cooperation. During his tenure, Ambassador Jajah was particularly noted for his steadfast dedication to the welfare of the Ghanaian diaspora. He was deeply involved in facilitating the needs of Ghanaian citizens living and working in the Kingdom, ensuring they had access to necessary consular support and guidance. His leadership was especially prominent during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, where he took a lead role in coordinating the welfare and safety of thousands of Ghanaian pilgrims, earning him widespread respect for his organizational skills and commitment to his compatriots. Beyond his work with individual citizens, Jajah was instrumental in fostering high-level diplomatic engagements that strengthened ties in sectors such as trade and energy. He was known for representing Ghana’s interests with professional distinction, navigating the complex international landscape of the Middle East while maintaining a focus on national priorities. His colleagues within the diplomatic corps remember him as a bridge-builder who effectively balanced official duties with a deep sense of community service. While the specific details regarding his death have not been made public by official sources, the news of his passing has been met with significant sadness in both Accra and Riyadh. As the nation reflects on his career, Sanni Jajah’s contributions to Ghana’s diplomatic presence in the Middle East remain a testament to his legacy of public service. His efforts to elevate Ghana’s standing on the international stage and his devotion to the Ghanaian community abroad mark him as a distinguished servant of the state.

Global Media Alliance and Japan Motors Partner for 16th Corporate Run and Walk to Support Persons with Visual Impairment
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Global Media Alliance and Japan Motors Partner for 16th Corporate Run and Walk to Support Persons with Visual Impairment

Global Media Alliance (GMA), in collaboration with Japan Motors, has officially launched the 16th edition of its annual Corporate Run and Walk, a cornerstone event aimed at fostering workplace health and supporting vulnerable populations. Scheduled to take place on September 21, 2026, the initiative continues its long-standing tradition of combining physical fitness with corporate social responsibility. This year's edition is particularly significant as it reinforces a commitment to the Ghana Blind Union, with organizers pledging to donate 25% of all registration proceeds to support individuals living with visual impairment across the country. The event consists of a five-kilometre run and walk designed to be inclusive, taking place simultaneously across multiple regions in Ghana to maximize participation and impact. Organizers have set the registration fee at GH"100, providing accessible entry points for both corporate teams and individual participants. With the convenience of online registration now available, the 2026 edition aims to attract a diverse range of professionals who are looking to balance their demanding work lives with physical activity while contributing to a noble cause. Beyond the physical challenge, the leadership at Global Media Alliance emphasized that the event's core philosophy centers on social impact and personal achievement rather than high-stakes competition. By positioning the run as a community-building exercise, the organizers hope to cultivate a spirit of camaraderie among Ghana’s corporate sector. The partnership with Japan Motors highlights a shared vision of corporate wellness, suggesting that a healthy workforce is essential for national productivity and that corporate success should be leveraged to improve the lives of the less fortunate. As the 16th edition approaches, the Corporate Run and Walk stands as a testament to the enduring power of public-private partnerships in addressing social challenges. The scheduled donation to the Ghana Blind Union will provide much-needed resources for advocacy and support services for the visually impaired. Moving forward, the organizers invite all stakeholders and the general public to join the movement, ensuring that the event remains a vital platform for health advocacy and social inclusion in Ghana’s developmental landscape.

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Fire Razes Family Residence of Late Tamale Central Member of Parliament Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed

A devastating domestic fire has razed the family residence of the late Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed. The incident, which occurred in the Changli suburb of the Northern Regional capital on Wednesday afternoon, has left several occupants displaced and caused extensive property damage. The fire broke out at approximately 4:00 PM, causing significant panic among residents in the historic neighborhood as smoke billowed across the skyline. Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) were called to the scene to battle the inferno. Although the firefighters arrived and successfully prevented the flames from spreading to nearby residential structures in the densely populated Changli area, the late MP’s family home suffered significant structural damage. Eyewitnesses reported that the intensity of the heat and the rapid spread of the fire made it difficult for occupants to salvage most of their personal belongings before the roof and interior sections were compromised by the blaze. The cause of the outbreak remains a subject of investigation by the regional fire command. Officials have confirmed that while the physical destruction is substantial, no fatalities or serious injuries were reported at the time of the incident. The late Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed was a highly regarded political figure in Tamale, and the loss of his family home has sent shockwaves through the local community, where the house stood as a symbol of the family's deep roots and legacy within the constituency. As the investigation continues, the displaced family members are currently being supported by neighbors and well-wishers within the Changli community while seeking temporary housing solutions. Local leaders have emphasized the need for periodic checks of electrical installations and general domestic fire safety measures to mitigate the risk of such occurrences in the future. The GNFS is expected to release a preliminary report once the site assessment is completed, providing more clarity on what triggered the unfortunate blaze.

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26-Year-Old Suspect Appears in Athens Court Charged with Murder of Scottish Woman Elisabeth-Jane Ross

A 26-year-old man has appeared before a court in Athens, Greece, following his arrest in connection with the murder of Elisabeth-Jane Ross, a 38-year-old woman from Scotland. The court appearance marks a significant development in a case that has drawn international attention due to the unsettling circumstances surrounding the victim's death. As the judicial process begins, authorities are working to establish the full details of the incident that led to the discovery of the Scottish national in the Greek capital. The discovery of the victim's remains occurred on July 18 in the Kypseli area of the Greek capital. A homeless man, while searching through a derelict building in the neighborhood, found a suitcase that was later determined to contain the body of Ross. This grim find led to an immediate forensic sweep of the property and the surrounding Kypseli district, as investigators worked to identify the deceased and track down individuals who may have been involved in the crime. As the legal process continues, the court will review the evidence presented by the prosecution regarding the events that led to the victim being found in such a manner. While the initial court session focused on the appearance of the 26-year-old accused, subsequent hearings are expected to provide more details about the investigation and the timeline of the murder. The case remains under the jurisdiction of the Athens legal system as they seek to resolve the tragic death of Elisabeth-Jane Ross.

Somanya Residents Petition PURC Over Prolonged Water Crisis as Hohoe Barber Fined for Illegal Dumping
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Somanya Residents Petition PURC Over Prolonged Water Crisis as Hohoe Barber Fined for Illegal Dumping

Recent developments in the Eastern and Volta Regions have highlighted growing concerns over infrastructure management and environmental hygiene. In Somanya, hundreds of households are grappling with a severe water shortage after a contractor damaged a vital pipeline, leading to a formal petition to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC). Meanwhile, in Hohoe, the judicial system has taken a firm stance against environmental degradation by fining a local barber for dumping waste into public drainage systems, a move prompted by viral social media evidence. The situation in Somanya, particularly affecting Agavenya and the Mount Mary College of Education community, has reached a critical point. Following the destruction of a major water pipeline on the Adjikpo-Asitey section of the Somanya-Kpong road, residents have been without potable water for weeks. The delay in restoration is reportedly due to the contractor's failure to provide the necessary funds for repairs. Consequently, families are forced to choose between purchasing expensive borehole water—costing between GH"600 and GH"300—or relying on the untreated and polluted Onuma Stream, posing significant health risks to the community and impacting local businesses. In a separate incident addressing urban sanitation, the Hohoe Magistrate Court sentenced Ekpane Seyram, a barber, to a fine of GHS 600 or a two-month prison term for illegally dumping refuse into a public drain. The conviction followed an investigation by the Environmental Health Unit after video footage of the act was shared on Facebook. Prosecutor Daniel Dotse Eklo emphasized that such actions contribute to blocked drains, increasing the risk of flash floods and the spread of disease outbreaks. The use of social media as a tool for environmental policing in this case underscores a growing shift toward community-led accountability in local governance. These two cases underscore the diverse challenges facing Ghanaian communities in maintaining public services and environmental standards. While Somanya residents seek institutional intervention from the PURC to hold contractors accountable for infrastructure damage, the Hohoe case demonstrates the power of civic vigilance and legal enforcement in curbing detrimental sanitation practices. As repairs in Somanya remain stalled, the outcomes of these events will likely serve as a benchmark for how local authorities and regulatory bodies address public grievances and enforce environmental laws across the country.

Bekwai Circuit Court Sentences 26-Year-Old Cobbler to 15 Years for Armed Robbery
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Bekwai Circuit Court Sentences 26-Year-Old Cobbler to 15 Years for Armed Robbery

Thomas Opoku, a 26-year-old cobbler also known as Akwasi Dekye, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison by the Bekwai Circuit Court following his conviction for armed robbery. The ruling, delivered by His Honour Isaac Appiatu on August 6, 2026, concludes a legal process that began with an incident near the Kokofu Nursing Training School in June. The court found Opoku guilty of attacking a victim at gunpoint to steal personal belongings, a crime that has drawn attention to public safety concerns in the Bekwai municipality. The prosecution established that on June 12, 2026, Opoku and an accomplice, who remains at large, accosted Divine Adu Boaheng. During the confrontation, the duo used a firearm to intimidate the victim before making off with a mobile phone and an unspecified amount of cash. The victim's ability to identify the suspect proved crucial to the case; Opoku was spotted and apprehended by police six days after the robbery, on June 18. Following the arrest, law enforcement officials successfully recovered the stolen mobile device, which served as key evidence during the trial. While Opoku has now begun his lengthy prison sentence, the Ghana Police Service continues its search for the second suspect involved in the robbery. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to tracking down the remaining perpetrator and have encouraged members of the public with relevant information to come forward. The 15-year sentence reflects the judiciary's firm stance against violent crime and serves as a deterrent to others in the region. As the Bekwai community processes the outcome, the case highlights the importance of swift reporting and community vigilance in assisting law enforcement to secure convictions.

Wa Circuit Court Sentences Nasiru Muftawu and Eric Salia to Combined 22 Years for Theft and Burglary
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Wa Circuit Court Sentences Nasiru Muftawu and Eric Salia to Combined 22 Years for Theft and Burglary

The Wa Circuit Court, presided over by Judge Samuel Boafo Amewuho, has sentenced two men to a total of 22 years in prison with hard labour for separate theft-related offenses in the Upper West Region. The convictions, secured on August 5, 2026, follow successful prosecutions by the Upper West Regional Police Command as part of an intensified crackdown on criminal activities in the area. The two individuals, 20-year-old Nasiru Muftawu and 36-year-old Eric Salia, were tried and sentenced for crimes ranging from multiple motorbike thefts to the burglary of a public official's residence. Nasiru Muftawu received the heavier sentence of 12 years after being found guilty on multiple counts related to the theft of motorbikes, a recurring issue that has plagued the regional capital. In a separate proceeding held on the same day, Eric Salia was handed a 10-year prison term. Salia's conviction stemmed from an incident where he broke into the home of a public officer and made off with various valuables. The court emphasized the need for deterrent sentences to protect private property and the security of public servants within the community. Following the court's ruling, the Upper West Regional Police Command reiterated its unwavering commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents. Police officials expressed satisfaction with the judicial outcome, noting that such sentences serve as a warning to potential offenders. They also encouraged the public to maintain a high level of vigilance and to continue collaborating with law enforcement agencies by providing timely information to help curb the incidence of theft and burglary across the region.

Tragedy at Debsirin Nonthaburi School: Seven Dead and Fifteen Injured in Thailand School Shooting
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Tragedy at Debsirin Nonthaburi School: Seven Dead and Fifteen Injured in Thailand School Shooting

A horrific shooting incident at the Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Thailand on Friday has resulted in the deaths of at least seven people, including the suspected gunman. The attack, which left fifteen others injured, occurred during the school day, sending waves of terror through the campus as students and staff scrambled for safety. Emergency medical services and security personnel responded swiftly to the scene, managing a chaotic evacuation process while teachers provided comfort to traumatized students amidst the bloodshed. Witnesses within the school grounds described a scene of initial confusion, with many students reporting that they first mistook the sound of rapid gunfire for firecrackers. The reality of the situation became clear only as the violence escalated, leading to a desperate search for cover. According to official reports, the suspected shooter brought the rampage to a final end by turning the weapon on himself. The Education Minister has since confirmed the devastating news that both teachers and students are among the deceased, though the identities of all victims have not yet been publicly released. This tragic event marks the second school shooting in Thailand this year, highlighting a disturbing trend of increasing gun violence in a country where such mass casualty events were once considered rare. The frequency of deadly shootings has risen over recent years, prompting urgent calls from the public and advocacy groups for more stringent gun control measures and enhanced security protocols within educational institutions. As authorities launch a full investigation into the motive and how the perpetrator obtained the firearm, the nation remains in mourning for the lives lost in this latest act of senseless violence.

Two dead, five injured in Mankessim-Accra highway crash
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Tragic Mankessim Highway Fatality Highlights Ongoing Efforts in Road Infrastructure and Traffic Management Professionalism

A tragic road traffic accident at Abor Junction on the Mankessim-Accra section of the N1 highway has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left five others injured. The incident involved a Toyota Voxy, with the deceased—a man and a woman—succumbing to their injuries at the scene before they could be transported for medical care. Rescue teams from the Mankessim Fire Station and the National Ambulance Service responded promptly to the crash, ensuring the five survivors were rushed to the hospital. While the specific cause of the accident remains under investigation, the event underscores the persistent dangers on the nation's major transit corridors. In a strategic effort to address long-term road safety and chronic congestion, the Department of Urban Roads has provided updates on the Suame Interchange project. Director-General Ing. James Oduro Amoo-Gottfried announced that the local roads component of Phase Two is scheduled to open to traffic by the end of October 2026. This phase includes the construction of three overpasses and alternative routes designed to divert traffic during the main multi-tier interchange construction. The project aims to significantly improve traffic flow at the busy Abrepo Junction, where a grade-separated underpass is also planned to mitigate the bottlenecks that often contribute to driver fatigue and accidents. Parallel to these infrastructure developments, the human element of road safety was recently spotlighted through the recognition of Superintendent Comfort Millicent Forkah, the Tesano Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) Divisional Commander. Superintendent Forkah was honored with a Citation of Honour by a civilian motor rider, Mr. Godsway Kofi Gonyoh, for her exceptional integrity and professionalism. The citation praised her impactful leadership and dedication to justice, which Gonyoh noted had restored his faith in the Ghana Police Service. Such individual commitment to ethical law enforcement is seen as a critical pillar in enhancing public confidence and ensuring order on the roads. As the Suame Municipal Assembly works to relocate traders and structures to facilitate the Suame Interchange construction, these collective developments—ranging from emergency response at Mankessim to large-scale engineering and improved police accountability—illustrate the multi-faceted approach required to manage Ghana's transportation sector. The synergy between high-quality infrastructure and professional traffic enforcement remains vital for reducing the frequency of fatal accidents and ensuring the safety of all commuters across the country's highway network.

Tragedy at Tuba: Car Dealer Kwesi Rahman Shot Dead, Wife Critically Injured in Estate Attack
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Tragedy at Tuba: Car Dealer Kwesi Rahman Shot Dead, Wife Critically Injured in Estate Attack

Residents of Beach Drive Estate in the Ga South Municipality of the Greater Accra Region have been thrown into a state of shock following the fatal shooting of 50-year-old car dealer, Kwesi Rahman. The incident, which occurred on the evening of August 6, 2026, also left the victim's wife in critical condition after she sustained severe injuries during the assault. The couple was reportedly targeted outside their residence around 9:30 p.m. shortly after returning from a walk, marking a violent escalation of security concerns within the suburban community. Eyewitnesses at the scene reported hearing several rounds of gunfire, which prompted neighbors to rush out of their homes. Upon reaching the couple's residence, they found Mr. Rahman unresponsive; he was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. His wife was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment, where she remains in a critical state. The swift and brutal nature of the attack has left the local community reeling, as the motive for the shooting remains unclear and the perpetrators are still at large. In the wake of the tragedy, residents of the Beach Drive Estate have voiced significant frustrations regarding what they describe as inadequate security measures within the vicinity. Despite being a gated residential area, community members noted that the lack of consistent surveillance and patrolling has left them vulnerable. Relative calls have been made for a more robust security presence, with residents demanding that the Ghana Police Service increase patrols in the Tuba and Ga South areas to deter future criminal activities. The Ghana Police Service has since launched a thorough investigation into the killing to identify the shooters and establish a motive. While no arrests have been made yet, officials have assured the public that they are following all available leads to ensure justice for the Rahman family. This incident has reignited a broader conversation about suburban safety in the Greater Accra Region, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced community policing and more effective security infrastructure in residential estates.

Tema: Seized suspected cocaine in port enclave has street value of US$6.928 million - Police
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Police Seize $6.9 Million in Suspected Cocaine at Tema Port; Dutch National Among Three Arrested

The Tema Regional Police Command has dealt a significant blow to international drug trafficking networks following the seizure of 866 parcels of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of US$6.928 million. The operation, which took place on August 5, 2026, targeted a warehouse within the Tema Port enclave where the illicit substance was discovered. In an attempt to evade detection, the narcotics were meticulously concealed within sacks of gari—a local processed cassava staple—and were being loaded into a 40-foot container destined for export. Acting on precise intelligence, police intercepted the shipment and arrested three key suspects at the scene. Among those detained is 31-year-old Gilano Horwin, a Dutch national who reportedly claimed ownership of the seized substances during initial interrogations. The other two suspects have been identified as 41-year-old John Mensah Sabah and Alhaji Iddris Haruna. According to Detective Chief Officer (DCOP) Eric Asamoah Asiedu, the suspects were apprehended while supervising the final loading of the contaminated sacks into the shipping container. The Tema police operation was part of a broader, intensified crackdown on narcotics across the Greater Accra Region. On the same day, a separate intervention by the Prampram District Police led to the interception of a taxi at Tsopoli. This secondary operation resulted in the arrest of an additional individual and the confiscation of four large sacks containing dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. DCOP Asiedu confirmed during a press briefing that all suspects from both operations are currently in custody and are assisting with investigations intended to map out the wider criminal networks involved. Following the seizure, the 866 parcels have been forwarded for forensic analysis to confirm their chemical composition and purity. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its unwavering commitment to dismantling drug cartels that attempt to use the country's ports as transit points for illicit trade. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to law enforcement, as the investigation shifts toward identifying potential accomplices within the regional shipping and logistics sectors.

President Mahama leads first anniversary memorial for helicopter crash victims
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President John Mahama Leads National Memorial Service for Victims of 2025 Military Helicopter Crash

Ghana observed a solemn National Interfaith Memorial Service on August 6, 2026, to mark the first anniversary of the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives. President John Mahama and Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang joined bereaved families, religious leaders, and senior government officials at the UPSA Auditorium in Madina, Accra, to honor those lost in the line of duty. The crash, which occurred on August 6, 2025, involved a Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9 helicopter transporting officials, including then-Minister of Defence Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, on a mission related to national efforts against illegal mining. During the service, religious leaders and family representatives emphasized the values of selflessness and sacrifice. Brigadier General Benjamin Godson Kumi-Woode, delivering the Christian sermon, urged Ghanaians to prioritize integrity and service to the nation over the pursuit of material wealth. Charles Ohene Oti, representing the families, expressed profound gratitude for the enduring legacies left behind by the victims. He noted that while the past year has been one of deep grief, the families remain anchored in faith and appreciative of the national support they have received in the wake of the tragedy. Addressing the congregation, President Mahama underscored the government's commitment to the welfare and protection of public service personnel. To support the families of the fallen officials, the President announced a state support package, which includes the establishment of GH"1 million trust funds for each child of the deceased. Mahama highlighted that the ultimate sacrifice made by these officials—who died while addressing the critical issue of illegal mining—must serve as a catalyst for improved safety standards and better working conditions for those dedicated to national service. The commemorations are set to continue with the Ministry of Defence unveiling a memorial cenotaph to serve as a permanent tribute to the eight individuals. Furthermore, the first anniversary activities will conclude on August 8, 2026, with a nationwide blood donation exercise. These events aim to ensure that the dedication of the victims remains an integral part of Ghana’s national memory, encouraging a spirit of volunteerism and commitment to national development among all citizens.