WhatsApp is set to launch a major privacy-focused update that will allow users to connect and chat without revealing their phone numbers, using unique usernames instead.The new feature will be rolled out globally to the platform's more than three billion users over the coming months, according to the Meta-owned messaging service.Beginning Monday, users will be able to reserve their preferred usernames through the app, although adopting a username will remain optional. WhatsApp says users will also have the flexibility to change or remove their usernames at any time.Once fully implemented, the feature will enable people to connect and communicate simply by exchanging usernames, eliminating the need to share personal phone numbers. Users will still have access to existing safety tools, including the ability to block and report unwanted contacts.Usernames will be limited to 35 characters, with certain restrictions in place to prevent impersonation. Names associated with high-profile public figures, government officials, and celebrities will be protected and unavailable for general use.<h2>WhatsApp Says Feature Enhances User Privacy</h2>According to WhatsApp's Head of Product, Alice Newton-Rex, many users have expressed concerns about sharing their phone numbers, particularly in group chats and online communities.She explained that the new feature is designed to give users greater control over how they interact with others on the platform."We hope this feature gives users more control over how they choose to show up on WhatsApp," she said.The move brings WhatsApp in line with other messaging platforms such as Signal, which introduced a similar username-based system in 2024.<h2>Privacy Experts Raise Concerns</h2>Despite welcoming the added layer of privacy, some experts argue that the update does not fully address broader concerns about data collection.Professor Carissa Véliz of the University of Oxford, author of Privacy Is Power, described the feature as useful but cautioned users against assuming it makes WhatsApp a fully privacy-focused platform.She noted that while message content remains protected by end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp continues to collect metadata, including information about who users communicate with and when those interactions occur.WhatsApp maintains that private messages are not used for advertising purposes and that the company cannot read the contents of encrypted chats.<h2>No Public Username Directory</h2>The company has clarified that there will be no public directory of usernames. Users will still be required to register with a phone number to create a WhatsApp account, but once the feature is fully rolled out, phone numbers will no longer be visible to other users during interactions.The announcement comes as WhatsApp undergoes a leadership transition. The company recently revealed that fintech entrepreneur Kunal Shah will take over leadership of the platform, succeeding Will Cathcart, who is stepping down after seven years as head of WhatsApp.The new usernames feature is expected to significantly improve privacy and security for users worldwide while making it easier to connect without exposing personal contact details.

WhatsApp introduces usernames feature to let users chat without sharing phone numbers

A woman and two children have been confirmed dead after they were swept away by floodwaters in Dome following Monday's torrential rains that caused widespread flooding across parts of the Greater Accra Region.The bodies of the three victims were recovered after floodwaters overwhelmed sections of the community, further increasing the death toll from the devastating floods that have affected several areas of Accra.Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased as investigations and family notifications continue.The tragedy comes amid severe flooding in several parts of the capital, including Alajo, Kaneshie, Adabraka, Weija, and sections of the Mallam–Kasoa Highway. Hours of heavy rainfall left roads submerged, stranded motorists, disrupted transportation, and caused significant damage to homes, vehicles, and other properties.Emergency officials have urged residents in flood-prone communities to remain vigilant and relocate to safer areas whenever water levels begin to rise. They have also advised the public to avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters, which can be extremely dangerous.Meanwhile, the presidency has called on citizens to adhere to official safety directives and remain alert as emergency response teams continue to monitor affected areas. Members of the public requiring urgent assistance have been encouraged to contact the national emergency hotline, 112.The latest fatalities have once again highlighted the persistent threat of flooding in Accra and renewed calls for long-term measures to address the city's recurring drainage and flood management challenges.

Woman and 2 children found dead in Dome floodwaters after heavy Accra rains

The Member of Parliament for the Klottey Korle Constituency, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has visited several flood-affected communities in Accra following heavy rains that triggered severe flooding and fire outbreaks in parts of the capital.During her visit, Dr Zanetor provided ropes and life jackets to assist residents trapped by rising floodwaters. However, she noted that the available emergency equipment was insufficient to adequately respond to the scale of the disaster.Speaking in an interview, the MP described the difficult conditions faced by affected residents and highlighted the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness."There are people who are trapped, and we are limited with the equipment we have. We just brought some ropes and extra life jackets to help, but it is not enough," she said.Dr Zanetor stressed the importance of proactive planning and investment in disaster management, urging authorities to equip relevant agencies with the resources needed to respond effectively to emergencies."I think we need to get past the point of being reactive. The necessary resources must be provided to the relevant agencies so they can be adequately prepared before disasters occur," she stated.The legislator also expressed deep concern about the emotional and financial impact of the floods and fire on affected residents, particularly women who have lost their businesses and personal belongings."The fire is still burning in the plastics market, and we are essentially trapped in a situation where we are unable to do much about what is happening. The women are devastated because, when all of this is over, they have their lives to return to, but they have nothing left to go back to. This is terrible," she lamented.The flooding, caused by hours of torrential rainfall, has left many residents stranded in their homes, destroyed property, and disrupted movement across several parts of Accra.The disaster has also sparked concerns over the speed and effectiveness of the authorities' response. Many citizens continue to call on government agencies and local authorities to implement lasting solutions to Ghana's recurring flooding challenges and strengthen emergency response mechanisms to protect lives and property.By: Lucy Mawufemor Kpeglo

'This is terrible, they have nothing to go back to'  - Zanetor visits Accra flood victims

Choosing a university course is one of the most important decisions students make after completing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). Beyond selecting a university, students must carefully consider their academic strengths, career goals, workload expectations and long-term opportunities.While every degree programme presents its own challenges, some courses are widely regarded as more demanding because of their rigorous coursework, intensive practical training and high academic standards.According to KC Overseas Education, a leading global student placement platform, certain university programmes require exceptional dedication, analytical thinking, resilience and technical expertise to succeed.Here are seven of the most difficult courses to study at university.<h2>1. Medicine</h2>Medicine is consistently ranked among the most challenging degree programmes worldwide due to its extensive academic and clinical requirements.Students are expected to study complex subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology and surgery while undertaking demanding clinical rotations and practical training.In Ghana, medicine remains one of the most competitive courses for admission, often requiring excellent WASSCE grades and strong performance in science subjects. The lengthy training period and the responsibility of caring for patients make it one of the most rigorous academic and professional pathways.<h2>2. Engineering</h2>Engineering is a highly demanding field that combines advanced mathematics, physics and technical problem-solving skills.Students are required to design, analyse, test and improve systems while balancing theoretical coursework with practical laboratory sessions and engineering projects.Specialisations such as mechanical, electrical, chemical and aerospace engineering are particularly challenging because of their heavy analytical and technical content. Graduates are essential to industries including construction, manufacturing, energy, telecommunications and mining.<h2>3. Data Science</h2>Data science has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing and most intellectually demanding disciplines in higher education.The field integrates mathematics, statistics, computer science and artificial intelligence to extract valuable insights from large datasets. Students must learn programming languages, machine learning techniques, predictive modelling and data visualisation tools.Success in data science requires strong analytical abilities, problem-solving skills and the capacity to work with complex technologies in a rapidly evolving industry.<h2>4. Neuroscience</h2>Neuroscience focuses on understanding the structure, function and development of the brain and nervous system.The discipline combines biology, psychology and scientific research methods, requiring students to study intricate neurological processes and interpret complex research findings.Popular areas of specialisation include cognitive neuroscience, clinical neuroscience and behavioural neuroscience. Although standalone undergraduate neuroscience programmes are limited in Ghana, many students enter the field through medicine, biological sciences or psychology before pursuing advanced studies.<h2>5. Architecture</h2>Architecture is a unique discipline that blends creativity with technical precision.Students must develop expertise in architectural design, computer-aided modelling, structural systems, technical drawing and environmental planning. The programme is known for its demanding studio projects, extensive coursework and strict deadlines.Architecture students are constantly challenged to balance artistic innovation with engineering principles, making it one of the most intensive university programmes.<h2>6. Aeronautics</h2>Aeronautics is the science and engineering of aircraft design, development and operation.Students study complex topics such as aerodynamics, flight mechanics, propulsion systems and aircraft performance. The programme involves advanced calculations and technical problem-solving, where precision is critical.Although full aeronautics degree programmes are not widely available in Ghana, many students interested in the field pursue their studies abroad. The course remains one of the most demanding because of its strong reliance on mathematics, physics and engineering concepts.<h2>7. Astronomy</h2>Astronomy explores celestial objects and phenomena, including planets, stars, galaxies and the broader universe.The field requires a strong foundation in mathematics and physics, along with advanced research and analytical skills. Students often spend considerable time conducting observations, analysing scientific data and developing theories about the cosmos.Ghana has strengthened its presence in astronomy through the Ghana Radio Astronomy Observatory, which continues to promote research and innovation in space science. Despite these advancements, astronomy remains one of the most academically challenging disciplines.<h2>Why Are These Courses So Difficult?</h2>What sets these programmes apart is not only the volume of work involved but also the level of commitment required to succeed. Students must demonstrate critical thinking, discipline, resilience, time-management skills and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.While these courses are demanding, they also offer some of the most rewarding career opportunities. Ultimately, success depends on dedication, perseverance and a genuine passion for the field rather than talent alone.For students preparing to enter university after WASSCE, understanding the demands of each programme can help them make informed decisions about their academic and professional future.

7 most difficult university courses to study after WASSCE

The Chairman of the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability, Hon. Dr Clement Abas Apaak, has called for urgent enforcement of disability rights and the removal of barriers preventing persons with disabilities from fully participating in national development.Speaking in Parliament to commemorate the National Day of Persons with Disabilities, Dr Apaak said this year's theme, "From Act to Action: Finalising Reforms and Enforcing Disability Rights Now", should inspire concrete action rather than mere policy commitments.He noted that although Ghana has made progress through the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2006 (Act 715), and the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, many persons with disabilities still face challenges in accessing education, healthcare, employment, transportation and other essential services.Dr Apaak welcomed ongoing efforts to review Ghana's disability laws, stressing that effective implementation, stronger institutions and adequate resources are needed to guarantee equal rights and opportunities for persons with disabilities.He also urged government institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations and development partners to work together to improve accessibility, promote inclusive employment and ensure persons with disabilities are actively involved in decisions affecting their lives.He reaffirmed Parliament's commitment to advancing disability inclusion and called for a Ghana where no one is left behind because of disability.By: Ibrahim Abode

Parliament urged to enforce disability rights, remove barriers - Dr Apaak

Buying land in Ghana is a significant investment, but purchasing the property alone does not guarantee full legal protection. Until your interest in the land is officially registered with the Lands Commission, your ownership can still be challenged.Without proper registration, the land could be resold to another buyer, become the subject of ownership disputes, or even result in lengthy court battles. This is why land experts consistently emphasize that buying land is only the first step—registration is what secures your ownership rights.Here is a complete guide on how to register land in Ghana.<h2>1. Conduct an Official Land Search</h2>Before making any payment, visit the Lands Commission and carry out an official land search. This process helps you verify critical information about the property, including:<ul><li>The true owner of the land</li><li>Whether the land has already been sold</li><li>Existing court cases involving the property</li><li>Whether the land has been used as collateral</li><li>Any disputes, restrictions, or encumbrances</li></ul>Many land fraud cases occur because buyers rely solely on information provided by sellers. An official search provides independent verification and helps you avoid costly mistakes.<h2>2. Prepare the Land Transfer Documents</h2>Once you have confirmed that the land is genuine and available for sale, the next step is preparing the legal transfer documents.Depending on the transaction, these documents may include:<ul><li>Indenture</li><li>Deed of Assignment</li><li>Lease Agreement</li></ul>The document should clearly state:<ul><li>Seller's details</li><li>Buyer's details</li><li>Description of the land</li><li>Purchase terms and conditions</li><li>Lease duration, where applicable</li></ul>The agreement must be signed by both parties and witnesses. An approved site plan should also be attached to support the registration process.<h2>3. Obtain a Certified Site Plan</h2>A licensed surveyor must prepare a site plan for the property. The site plan serves as the official map of the land and contains:<ul><li>Exact location</li><li>Boundaries</li><li>Measurements</li><li>GPS coordinates</li></ul>Without an accurate site plan, it can be difficult to identify and register the property correctly. In some cases, the Survey and Mapping Division of the Lands Commission may need to certify the plan before registration proceeds.<h2>4. Pay Stamp Duty</h2>After the land documents have been signed, they must be submitted for valuation.Government authorities will assess the value of the property and determine the amount of stamp duty payable. Once assessed:<ul><li>Pay the required stamp duty</li><li>Keep the receipt as evidence of payment</li></ul>Stamp duty is mandatory. Under Ghanaian law, land documents that have not been stamped cannot be registered.<h2>5. Assemble All Required Documents</h2>Before submitting your application, ensure you have all necessary documentation, including:<ul><li>Indenture or land agreement</li><li>Certified site plan</li><li>Land search report</li><li>Valid national identification card</li><li>Passport-sized photographs</li><li>Proof of ownership documents</li><li>Completed application forms</li><li>Stamp duty receipt</li></ul>Additional requirements may apply depending on the nature of the land. Stool lands, family lands and state lands often require further approvals.<h2>6. Submit Your Application to the Lands Commission</h2>Submit all documents to the Land Registration Division of the Lands Commission.Officials will review:<ul><li>Ownership history</li><li>Survey information</li><li>Supporting documentation</li><li>Required approvals and consents</li></ul>This verification stage helps ensure that the transaction is legitimate and that there are no legal issues affecting the property.<h2>7. Public Notice and Investigation</h2>For first-time registrations, the Lands Commission may publish a public notice to invite objections from anyone claiming an interest in the land.This process allows disputes to be identified and resolved before registration is completed, reducing the likelihood of future ownership conflicts.<h2>8. Pay Registration Fees</h2>Once your application has been approved, you will be required to pay registration-related charges, which may include:<ul><li>Registration fees</li><li>Processing fees</li><li>Applicable administrative levies</li></ul>The amount payable varies depending on factors such as the land's location, value and type of transaction.<h2>9. Official Registration of Ownership</h2>This is the most important stage of the process.The Lands Commission officially records your interest in the land, providing legal recognition of your ownership.Registration offers several benefits, including:<ul><li>Public proof of ownership</li><li>Priority over future claims</li><li>Strong legal protection under Ghanaian law</li></ul>Under the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), registration of land instruments is mandatory and plays a crucial role in reducing land disputes across the country.<h2>10. Collect Your Land Certificate</h2>After successful registration, you will receive one of the following:<ul><li>A Land Certificate (for Title Registration Areas)</li><li>A Registered Instrument (for Deeds Registration Areas)</li></ul>A Land Certificate serves as strong legal evidence of ownership and is generally accepted unless it can be proven that it was obtained through fraud.Store this document securely, as it is one of the most important records relating to your property.<h2>How Long Does Land Registration Take in Ghana?</h2>According to the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), title registration applications should generally be processed within 90 days after all required documents have been accepted by the Lands Commission.However, delays may occur due to:<ul><li>Land disputes</li><li>Missing documentation</li><li>Public objections</li><li>Administrative backlogs</li></ul><h2></h2>

How to Register Land in Ghana: 10 steps to secure ownership

Former South Korean First Lady Kim Keon Hee has been sentenced to seven years in prison after a court found her guilty of accepting luxury gifts in exchange for using her influence to secure political appointments and business benefits.The Seoul Central District Court delivered its ruling on Friday, concluding that Kim received expensive gifts, including jewellery, a luxury designer handbag, and other high-value items both during and after her tenure as first lady.According to the court, Kim leveraged her position and influence to help individuals obtain government jobs and gain business advantages. Presiding Judge Cho Sun-pyo stated that she used her status as first lady to facilitate appointments and favours while willingly accepting valuable gifts in return.In addition to the seven-year prison sentence, the court imposed a fine of 64.8 million won (approximately $42,000) and ordered the confiscation of all luxury items linked to the case.Kim has denied the allegations, maintaining that the gifts were not bribes. Her legal representatives have confirmed that they intend to appeal the verdict.<h3>Court Details Luxury Gifts and Favours</h3>During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence showing that a construction company owner allegedly gifted Kim jewellery worth more than 100 million won (about $64,750) in exchange for assistance in securing a government position for his son-in-law.The court also determined that a pastor presented Kim with a Dior handbag and other luxury gifts while seeking favourable treatment related to public officials' duties.Judges further found that a former prosecutor gifted her a painting by renowned South Korean artist Lee Ufan to support his political ambitions. In another instance, a former head of the National Education Commission reportedly presented Kim with a gold turtle ornament in return for an appointment to the position.<h3>Legal Troubles Continue for Former First Lady</h3>The latest conviction adds to Kim's growing legal challenges. She is already serving a four-year prison sentence imposed in April after being convicted of stock manipulation and accepting bribes connected to South Korea's Unification Church.Her husband, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, is also currently imprisoned. He is serving a life sentence after being convicted of sending military drones into North Korea and leading an insurrection. Prosecutors argued that the drone operation was intended to create grounds for declaring martial law in December 2024.Yoon was removed from office in 2025 following impeachment proceedings.While serving as president, Yoon vetoed three opposition-backed bills seeking investigations into allegations against Kim. Public scrutiny intensified in 2023 after a video surfaced that appeared to show the former first lady accepting a luxury handbag, triggering widespread controversy and calls for accountability.The latest ruling marks another major development in one of South Korea's most high-profile political scandals in recent years.

Former South Korean First Lady Kim Keon Hee Jailed 7 years over luxury gift bribery scandal

Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama has pledged a special cash reward for the Black Stars following their impressive performances at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the team prepares for a crucial Group L encounter against Croatia national football team.Mahama made the announcement during a visit to Ghana's training camp in Rhode Island on Thursday, June 25, where he met with players and members of the technical team ahead of Saturday's decisive group-stage fixture.Addressing the squad, he commended the players for their commitment, discipline, and determination throughout the tournament, revealing that their performances had inspired him to offer additional financial support.<blockquote>"I have a much better bonus for you than the taxpayers because they have to go to Parliament. I don't have to go to Parliament. Please do us proud, and you will be rewarded," Mahama told the team.</blockquote>His promise comes at a time when optimism is growing among Ghanaian supporters, with the Black Stars producing strong displays at the World Cup. Ghana remains one of the African teams yet to concede a goal in the competition, earning praise for its defensive solidity, tactical discipline, and attacking efficiency.Mahama also lauded head coach Carlos Queiroz for the impact he has made since taking charge of the team shortly before the tournament.<blockquote>"With the coach, I am very, very proud because you came in at a shorter time. You have been able to put the boys together in your wonderful performance."</blockquote>The pledge adds to the growing support from corporate organisations and private individuals rallying behind Ghana's World Cup campaign. Earlier this year, Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to the national team when his company, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://www.engineersandplanners.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Engineers &amp; Planners</a>, contributed $5 million during a national fundraising drive to support the Black Stars' preparations for the World Cup.Financial incentives have often served as a source of motivation for players, and Mahama's latest gesture is expected to further boost morale as Ghana aims to secure qualification for the knockout stages with a positive result against Croatia.

Ibrahim Mahama promises special cash reward for Black Stars ahead of Croatia clash

Football-related podcast streams are rising across SSA markets, with Eswatini, Angola, Madagascar and Mozambique among the fastest-growing countries.Spotify listening data shows football podcast consumption is accelerating across Sub-Saharan Africa, with several markets posting strong increases in June compared with the January–May average.The data points to a broad rise in sports audio engagement across the region, as fans increasingly turn to podcasts for commentary, match analysis, player stories, club conversations, and fan-led discussion. Growth is not limited to one market or sub-region, with gains appearing across Southern, East, West, and Central Africa.Among the fastest-growing SSA markets for football-related podcast listening are Eswatini, up 160.2%; Angola, up 144.7%; Madagascar, up 137.2%; Mozambique, up 136.0%; Togo, up 121.0%; Benin, up 120.0%; Cabo Verde, up 113.6%; Côte d’Ivoire, up 110.4%; Namibia, up 103.3%; Rwanda, up 98.0%; Guinea, up 94.3%; Mauritius, up 88.6%; Cameroon, up 86.8%; Burundi, up 82.9%; Burkina Faso, up 81.3%; and South Africa, up 80.3%.The trend reflects the growing role of podcasts as a companion format for football fans across the region. Beyond live games and short-form clips, listeners are engaging with longer-form analysis, creator-led conversations, and local perspectives that deepen the way they follow the sport.The findings are based on Spotify podcast listening data from June 1 through June 20, 2026, comparing average daily football-related podcast streams from June 1–20 against the January–May average.<h2>Table: Spotify's Fastest-Growing Sub-Saharan African Markets for Football Podcast Listening</h2><table style="min-width: 75px;"><colgroup><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rank</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Country</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Growth (%)</th></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">1</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Eswatini</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">160.2%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">2</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Angola</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">144.7%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">3</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Madagascar</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">137.2%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mozambique</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">136.0%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">5</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Togo</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">121.0%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">6</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Benin</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">120.0%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">7</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Cabo Verde</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">113.6%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">8</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Côte d’Ivoire</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">110.4%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">9</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Namibia</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">103.3%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">10</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rwanda</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">98.0%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">11</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Guinea</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">94.3%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">12</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mauritius</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">88.6%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">13</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Cameroon</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">86.8%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">14</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Burundi</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">82.9%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">15</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Burkina Faso</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">81.3%</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">16</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">South Africa</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">80.3%</td></tr></tbody></table>About Spotify<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://open.spotify.com/genre/0JQ5DAqbMKFLhhtGqqgAsz">Spotify</a> transformed music listening forever when we launched in 2008. Our mission is to unlock the potential of human creativity by giving a million creative artists the opportunity to live off their art and billions of fans the opportunity to enjoy and be inspired by these creators.Everything we do is driven by our love for music and podcasts. Discover, manage, and share over 100 million tracks, including more than 6 million podcast titles, for free, or upgrade to Spotify Premium to access exclusive features for music, including improved sound quality and an on-demand, offline, and ad-free music listening experience.Today, we are the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service with a community of 626 million users, including 246 million Spotify Premium subscribers, in over 180 markets.Source: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://open.spotify.com/genre/0JQ5DAqbMKFLhhtGqqgAsz">Spotify</a>

Spotify data shows football podcast listening surging across Sub-Saharan Africa

One person has died and four others sustained gunshot wounds during the Fire Festival celebrations in Salaga on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.The deceased, identified as Shehu, a resident of Mallam, reportedly died after suffering severe cutlass wounds during a traditional display believed to test spiritual protection. According to eyewitnesses, he successfully endured two earlier attempts, during which two cutlasses were broken. However, the third attempt resulted in fatal injuries.In a separate incident, four people sustained gunshot wounds when a celebrant allegedly discharged a firearm, accidentally hitting passers-by near the Salaga Roundabout during the festivities.The injured persons were rushed to a nearby health facility for treatment. Their current conditions remain unknown.Police are yet to issue an official statement on the incidents, while investigations are expected to determine the circumstances surrounding both the fatality and the shooting.The annual Fire Festival, celebrated in parts of northern Ghana, attracts large crowds and features various traditional and cultural activities. However, concerns have often been raised about safety during some aspects of the celebrations.The death of Shehu adds two to the number of people who openly died displaying spiritual powers in Ghana this year after the youth chief of Ayanfuri also accidentally died in a gunshot.Story by Ibrahim Abode SALAGA FIRE FESTIVAL TURNS TRAGIC: ONE DEAD IN SELF-STABBING, FOUR INJURED BY GUNFIRE One person has died and four others sustained gunshot wounds during the Fire Festival celebrations in Salaga on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.The deceased, identified as Shehu, a resident of Mallam, reportedly died after suffering severe cutlass wounds during a traditional display believed to test spiritual protection. According to eyewitnesses, he successfully endured two earlier attempts, during which two cutlasses were broken. However, the third attempt resulted in fatal injuries.In a separate incident, four people sustained gunshot wounds when a celebrant allegedly discharged a firearm, accidentally hitting passers-by near the Salaga Roundabout during the festivities.The injured persons were rushed to a nearby health facility for treatment. Their current conditions remain unknown.Police are yet to issue an official statement on the incidents, while investigations are expected to determine the circumstances surrounding both the fatality and the shooting.The annual Fire Festival, celebrated in parts of northern Ghana, attracts large crowds and features various traditional and cultural activities. However, concerns have often been raised about safety during some aspects of the celebrations.The death of Shehu adds two to the number of people who openly died displaying spiritual powers in Ghana this year after the youth chief of Ayanfuri also accidentally died in a gunshot.Story by Ibrahim Abode

Salaga fire festival turns tragic: One dead in self-inflicted stabbing, 4 injured by gunfire

The founder of the International God's Way Church, Bishop Daniel Obinim, has firmly stated that he has no plans to return to his matrimonial home despite an emotional appeal from one of his sons to come back and help restore order within the family.Speaking to his congregation during a church service, the outspoken preacher disclosed that he recently received a voice note from his son, Gifted, shortly after moving out of the family residence amid his ongoing marital difficulties with his wife, Florence Obinim.According to Bishop Obinim, the message focused on concerns regarding the conduct of another son, Promise. He subsequently played the audio recording to members of the church.In the voice note, Gifted reportedly claimed that Promise had taken a Mercedes-Benz G-Waggon that had been left for the family's use and was later involved in an accident that damaged the vehicle.Gifted also pleaded with his father to return home, explaining that neither he nor his mother had been able to manage Promise's behaviour."Please come back home. You need to control Promise," Gifted reportedly said in the recording while expressing concern over the incident involving the vehicle.After playing the audio, Bishop Obinim asked members of the congregation whether they believed he should return to the family home. While some advocated reconciliation, others advised caution, citing concerns for his well-being.However, the controversial preacher made it clear that he has no intention of changing his decision."People have been saying that I've left home, and I can confirm that it is true. I have left. I will not go back, and not even my parents, whom I respect deeply, can ask me to return and expect me to obey. My life is important to me," he told the congregation.The comments come amid a widely publicised marital dispute between Bishop Obinim and Florence Obinim, which has attracted significant attention on social media and within Ghana's entertainment circles.The controversy began after the preacher publicly accused his wife of changing due to the influence of people around her. He later revealed that he had moved out of the family home and relocated to a luxury residence in Trasacco while addressing challenges in the marriage.Florence Obinim subsequently responded, stating that if her husband wished to end the marriage, he was free to do so.Despite his son's heartfelt appeal and growing public interest in the matter, Bishop Obinim appears resolute in his decision to remain away from the family residence as the family dispute continues to unfold.

Bishop Obinim rejects son's plea to return home amid ongoing marital dispute

Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak has dismissed claims that former Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) Chief Executive Officer Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu is being held in a private facility or receiving special treatment while serving her prison sentence.Speaking in an interview with Joy News on Wednesday, June 24, the minister clarified that the convicted former MASLOC CEO remains in the custody of the Ghana Prisons Service and is serving her sentence in accordance with the law.“From the day she came, she has been with us, and she’s with us, and she’s serving her term,” Mr Muntaka stated.His comments come amid growing calls from some opposition lawmakers seeking greater transparency regarding the exact location where Tamakloe-Attionu is being held following her conviction in the MASLOC fraud case.However, the interior minister maintained that the government is under no obligation to publicly disclose the specific detention location of high-profile inmates, citing security and safety concerns.“Maybe in Ghana, we take telling people where somebody is serving lightly, because in America and other countries, revealing the location of a high-profile person can even endanger that individual’s life. It is a matter of safety,” he explained.Mr Muntaka reiterated that there should be no doubt about Tamakloe-Attionu’s status, stressing that she is serving her sentence under the supervision of the Ghana Prisons Service.“Trust us, she’s serving her term. She’s not in any private residence. She is with us,” he said.He further noted that anyone seeking confirmation of her whereabouts or wishing to arrange a visit can do so through the established procedures of the Ghana Prisons Service.“Was she not sentenced? She was. If she has been sentenced, then she must be in prison custody,” the minister added.The clarification comes as public interest continues to grow around the incarceration of the former MASLOC boss following her conviction in the high-profile case.

Muntaka denies special treatment claims, says Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu is in prison custody

The Ministry for the Interior has announced that Friday, July 3, 2026, will be observed as a statutory public holiday in commemoration of Republic Day.In a statement issued to the public, the Ministry explained that although Republic Day falls on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama has, through an Executive Instrument (E.I.), designated Friday, July 3, 2026, as the official day for nationwide observance.According to the Ministry, the decision was made in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, 2001 (Act 601), as amended.The statement further urged the general public to take note of the change and observe Friday, July 3, 2026, as a public holiday across the country.The declaration forms part of the government's efforts to ensure the proper observance of national commemorative days and provide citizens with the opportunity to mark the occasion.

Gov't declares July 3 as public holiday

The Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Justice Srem-Sai, has announced that the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has dismissed all seven claims filed against the Republic of Ghana by former Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo.In a statement shared on social media on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, Justice Srem-Sai confirmed that the regional court ruled in favour of Ghana, rejecting all allegations that the former chief justice's rights were violated during the proceedings leading to her removal from office.“The ECOWAS Community Court has, a while ago, dismissed all of the seven claims which the former Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, brought against our beloved Republic,” he stated.According to him, the court also dismissed the claim for US$10 million in damages, which had been sought as compensation for alleged human rights violations.“In respect of Her Ladyship’s claim for US$10 million in damages, the Court held that in light of its conclusions that Ghana has not violated any of the Applicant’s rights under the African Charter, the Court makes no decision on reparations,” he added.Justice Srem-Sai commended Ghana’s legal team for their role in defending the state throughout the proceedings.The ruling marks a significant development in the legal dispute between the former Chief Justice and the Republic of Ghana. Justice Torkornoo had filed the case at the ECOWAS Court challenging the constitutional process that led to her removal, alleging violations of her rights under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.Her claims included allegations of invasive searches, restricted access to family members during hearings, and the seizure of personal electronic devices during investigative proceedings.Justice Torkornoo was suspended in March 2025 following a prima facie determination by a committee investigating petitions for her removal and was subsequently removed from office in May 2025 after parliamentary approval—making her the first Chief Justice in Ghana’s constitutional history to be removed from office.The ECOWAS Court’s dismissal of all claims effectively ends the regional legal challenge and represents a significant victory for the Republic of Ghana.

ECOWAS court dismisses all claims against Ghana in Gertrude Torkornoo case

The Ghana Education Service has announced that shortlisted candidates for its National Service Personnel (NSP) recruitment exercise will be published on July 20, 2026, as it continues the assessment of applications submitted from across the country.In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 24, the Service revealed that it is currently reviewing all applications to verify that applicants meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the recruitment advertisement.GES expressed gratitude to all applicants for their interest and assured them that the selection process is being conducted transparently and in accordance with established recruitment guidelines.According to the recruitment schedule released by the Service, the evaluation of applications is expected to be completed by June 30, 2026. Following the review process, the list of successful candidates will be made available on July 20.The Service further indicated that shortlisted applicants will undergo onboarding and orientation programmes at the regional and district levels between July 20 and August 31, 2026. The exercise is designed to prepare recruits for their deployment into various roles within the education sector.GES stated that all successful candidates are expected to officially assume duty on August 31, 2026, marking the final stage of the recruitment process."The Service appreciates your patience and understanding throughout the recruitment process and wishes all applicants the very best," the statement noted.

GES to release shortlisted National Service recruitment candidates by July 20

England and Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence appeared to be the only England player who did not shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before Tuesday's 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L encounter in Boston.There had been speculation ahead of the match about whether members of Thomas Tuchel's England squad would avoid the customary pre-match handshake with the former Arsenal midfielder, who is facing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom.Partey is due to stand trial at Southwark Crown Court next year after being charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault. The 33-year-old has denied all allegations against him, with his lawyer stating that he welcomes the opportunity to clear his name in court.Television coverage did not fully capture the pre-match exchange, but footage circulating on social media appeared to show Spence keeping his right hand inside his tracksuit pocket as Partey greeted England's players. The Ghana international seemed momentarily surprised and briefly looked back toward the Tottenham defender before continuing down the line.Partey, whose contract with Spanish club Villarreal is set to expire next week, was making his first appearance at the tournament after missing Ghana's opening group-stage match against Panama in Toronto. He was unable to feature in that game after Canadian immigration authorities denied him entry into the country, with a subsequent appeal reportedly unsuccessful.<h3>Ghana Hold England to Goalless Draw</h3>On the pitch, Ghana produced a disciplined defensive display to secure a valuable 0-0 draw against England in their Group L fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The Three Lions controlled possession for much of the first half and created the better opportunities, with captain Harry Kane going close early on. However, Ghana remained compact and organised, preventing England from finding a breakthrough.The Black Stars improved significantly after the interval and looked more threatening going forward. Jordan Ayew and substitute Prince Adu Kwabena both tested the England defence, while goalkeeper Benjamin Asare delivered another outstanding performance between the posts.Asare made two crucial saves, including an impressive stop to deny Bukayo Saka, helping Ghana preserve a clean sheet. England pushed relentlessly in the closing stages, striking the woodwork and missing several promising chances, but was unable to beat the Ghana shot-stopper.The draw leaves Ghana in a strong position in Group L as the race for a place in the knockout stages intensifies.

England star Djed Spence ignored Thomas Partey's handshake at the World Cup

The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has announced the immediate suspension of all registered firearm licences across Ghana as part of a comprehensive overhaul of the country's firearms ownership and regulatory framework.The directive took effect at 12 noon on Tuesday, June 23, and forms part of a broader effort to strengthen national security, enhance accountability, and improve oversight of firearm ownership nationwide.Speaking on Joy FM's Super Morning Show, the Interior Minister said the government had identified significant concerns within the current firearm licensing system, including compliance issues and the potential misuse of legally registered weapons.“Everybody in Ghana who currently holds a legitimate license to hold a gun, today (Tuesday, June 23), I am suspending all of it. All of it that everybody is holding,” he stated.According to Mr Mubarak, the suspension will enable authorities to undertake a thorough audit and restructuring of the country's firearm licensing regime.He explained that the decision was informed by what he described as a “new phenomenon” that poses a growing threat to public safety.“Because we have realised a new phenomenon which is threatening public safety,” he noted.The announcement comes in the wake of reports surrounding a shooting incident involving former Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo at a property linked to Israel Safo in the Greater Accra Region.The incident is tied to an ongoing succession dispute within the Kristo Asafo Mission following the death of its founder, Apostle Professor Kwadwo Safo, in September last year.The leadership dispute has resulted in competing claims over control of the church and its affiliated institutions, with several legal proceedings currently underway.In a statement, the Kwadwo Safo family alleged that Ms Adwoa Safo was at the property to serve a court injunction during an installation ceremony involving Israel Safo when the shooting occurred. The matter remains under investigation by the Ghana Police Service.Authorities say the nationwide suspension of firearm licences is a temporary measure aimed at stabilising the firearms regulatory system while investigations and reforms are carried out.The government is expected to provide further details on the review process and the requirements for firearm owners once the audit of the existing licensing framework is completed.

Interior Minister suspends all firearm licences in Ghana amid major security reforms

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) is an independent, non-partisan governance institution established under the 1992 Constitution to promote and sustain democracy through civic education on the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens.In November 2025, the Human Resource Department of the Commission, in collaboration with the Electronic Payment Voucher (EPV) Unit of the Controller and Accountant-General's Department, organised a training workshop for newly created management units across the country.The workshop was held in Kumasi from November 19 to November 22, 2025, and brought together representatives from about 88 newly created management units nationwide. The training took place at the Public Services Training Centre at Adiembra, Kumasi.According to the organisers, the objective of the workshop was to equip newly designated validators with the knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to improve the validation process within the Commission's operational framework.<h2>PARTICIPANTS RAISE CONCERNS OVER UNPAID ALLOWANCES</h2>Participation in the training involved representatives from 88 districts, with each district nominating two officers, bringing the total number of participants to approximately 176.According to several participants who spoke on condition of anonymity, they were informed at the end of the training that their transportation and travel (T&amp;T) allowances, as well as their per diems, would be paid electronically through mobile money.The participants stated that they were required to sign payment vouchers before leaving the workshop venue, with assurances that the funds would be transferred to their respective mobile money accounts.However, seven months after the workshop, the participants claim they are yet to receive the promised payments.The affected officers have questioned the prolonged delay and are demanding answers from management, with some alleging possible irregularities in the payment process after being made to sign vouchers despite not receiving the funds.Some participants described the situation as troubling and called for transparency regarding the status of the payments and the funds allocated for the workshop.When contacted for her response, Ms Peace Kondo, Human Resource Manager of the NCCE, confirmed that the workshop took place but reportedly stated that the issue was an internal matter that should be resolved within the institution.The development has sparked concerns among the affected participants, who are calling on the leadership of the NCCE to investigate the matter, address the concerns raised, and ensure the prompt payment of all outstanding transportation allowances and per diems.As of the time of filing this report, the affected participants say they are still awaiting payment and any official communication explaining the reason for the delay.Meanwhile, some regional and district directors of the commission have also bemoaned the recent lack of resourcing in running the activities of the commission.Story By: Ibrahim Abode

NCCE faces alleged payment irregularities as workshop participants remain unpaid

The Ghana Police Service has arrested Israel Kwadwo Safo, popularly known as Akofena, in connection with the shooting incident involving former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo.According to a statement issued by the police, Akofena voluntarily reported to the regional police headquarters on Monday, June 22, 2026. He was subsequently transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters to assist with investigations into the shooting incident that occurred on June 21, 2026.<h3>Police Recover Weapons and Ammunition</h3>The police revealed that a search conducted at the suspect’s residence in Kwabenya and his vehicle led to the discovery of a significant cache of firearms and ammunition.Items recovered included 120 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 50 rounds of .45 calibre ammunition, 25 rounds of .40 calibre ammunition, several loaded magazines, and two Glock pistols, one of which is legally registered in the suspect’s name.<h3>Two More Suspects Arrested</h3>As part of the ongoing investigation, police also arrested two additional suspects identified as Nana Kwaku Afriyie and Kwadwo Safo Koomson.The three suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting investigators as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the high-profile shooting case.<h3>Suspects to Appear in Court</h3>Police said all three suspects are expected to be arraigned before court on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, while investigations continue.The shooting incident involving Adwoa Safo has generated widespread public interest and prompted a series of police operations. Law enforcement authorities have reiterated their commitment to pursuing all leads and ensuring that anyone found culpable is brought before the law.

Kwadwo Safo, 2 others arrested over Adwoa Safo shooting

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has announced new increases in electricity and water tariffs, which will take effect nationwide from 1 July 2026.Under the revised rates, electricity tariffs will rise by 3.49%, while water tariffs will increase by 0.85%, according to a statement issued by the Commission on 22 June 2026.PURC explained that the adjustments form part of its quarterly tariff review mechanism, which is designed to account for changes in key economic and operational indicators that affect the cost of utility service delivery."These adjustments have been carried out in line with the Commission's mandate to review tariffs on a quarterly basis to reflect developments within the quarter," the Commission stated.<h3>Why PURC Increased Utility Tariffs</h3>The Commission noted that the quarterly review process considers factors beyond the control of utility providers but which significantly influence the cost of supplying electricity and water.Among the factors assessed were fluctuations in the Ghana cedi's exchange rate against the US dollar, inflation levels, the electricity generation mix, and fuel costs, particularly natural gas used in thermal power generation.For the third quarter of 2026, PURC applied a weighted average exchange rate of GH¢11.2228 to US$1, representing a 0.2% depreciation of the cedi compared to the previous quarter.The Commission also used an average inflation rate of 3.43% for the period between April and June 2026, down from 4.17% recorded in the second quarter.Additionally, the weighted average cost of natural gas was pegged at US$7.9708 per MMBtu, reflecting a 1.58% decline from the previous quarter.Meanwhile, Ghana's electricity generation mix remained unchanged, with hydropower contributing 20.9% and thermal generation accounting for 79.1% of total power production.<h3>PURC Aims to Sustain Utility Service Delivery</h3>PURC stressed that the tariff adjustments are intended to preserve the real value of utility tariffs and ensure the financial sustainability of service providers."These quarterly adjustments are undertaken by the Commission to maintain the real value of the existing tariffs, which would enable the utility service providers to remain financially viable and to deliver on their services to consumers, while bearing in mind the impact of these tariffs on the wellbeing of consumers in general," the statement noted.The regulator further expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their continued support in implementing the quarterly tariff review framework."The Commission is once more grateful to all its stakeholders for their support in implementing these Quarterly Tariff Reviews per its Rate Setting Guidelines to address changes in operational conditions of the service providers," PURC added.The Commission also assured consumers that it will continue to monitor the performance of utility companies and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.The revised electricity and water tariffs will officially take effect across Ghana on 1 July 2026.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1782168027015-0le9vgiopcpm.webp" alt="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" data-credit="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" title="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1782168045964-tqanlq9cdx.webp" alt="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" data-credit="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" title="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1782168085582-7916fhzbilf.webp" alt="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" data-credit="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" title="PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices" width="auto" height="auto"></div>

PURC increases electricity and water tariffs effective July 1 - See latest prices

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has predicted rain and thunderstorms across several parts of the country today, Monday, June 22, 2026, while warning residents to remain vigilant as weather conditions are expected to change throughout the day.According to GMet, patches of mist and fog are likely to form over forested and mountainous areas during the early hours of the morning, reducing visibility in some locations.Along the coast, mostly cloudy conditions are expected, with the possibility of light rainfall in some areas. However, parts of southern Ghana are forecast to experience brief sunny intervals from mid-morning through to the afternoon.Despite the sunshine, GMet says thunderstorms and rainfall are likely to develop later in the day across sections of the coastal, forest and transition zones.Major cities that could be affected include Accra, Kasoa, Winneba, Cape Coast, Takoradi, Ho, Koforidua, Kumasi and Sunyani, where residents may experience varying degrees of rainfall and thunderstorms.In northern Ghana, generally sunny conditions are expected to prevail for most of the day. Nonetheless, isolated thunderstorms or rain showers may occur in some communities from late afternoon into the evening.Temperature readings are forecast to range from a maximum of 31°C along the coast to as high as 35°C in parts of northern Ghana. Minimum temperatures across the country are expected to fall between 21°C and 25°C.GMet has advised the public, particularly those in areas prone to thunderstorms, to take the necessary precautions and stay updated on weather developments throughout the day.The agency also cautioned that sea conditions are expected to be rough, urging fishermen, coastal residents and other users of the sea to exercise extra care.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1782130186339-rht4afebfto.webp" alt="Ghana Weather Today: Rain and thunderstorms forecast for Accra, Kumasi and other Regions" data-credit="Ghana Weather Today: Rain and thunderstorms forecast for Accra, Kumasi and other Regions" title="Ghana Weather Today: Rain and thunderstorms forecast for Accra, Kumasi and other Regions" width="auto" height="auto"></div>

Ghana Weather Today: Rain and thunderstorms forecast for Accra, Kumasi and other Regions

The Black Stars of Ghana will face the Three Lions of England in a crucial Group L clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Tuesday evening.Ghana secured a dramatic late victory against Panama in their opening match thanks to a decisive goal from Caleb Yirenkyi, earning three important points ahead of the tough encounter with England.England, meanwhile, were not entirely convincing in their opening game against Croatia. Despite defensive lapses that saw them concede twice in the first half, the Three Lions still delivered one of the tournament’s most impressive attacking displays on Matchday One.With both sides aiming to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the knockout stages, Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to make a few tactical adjustments while maintaining the team’s balance and defensive solidity.<h2>Goalkeeper</h2><h3>Benjamin Asare</h3>Benjamin Asare is expected to start in goal for Ghana against England after first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi suffered an injury during the match against Panama and was unable to continue in the second half.Although Ati-Zigi has reportedly returned to training, Queiroz may decide not to risk him for such a high-intensity encounter, paving the way for Asare to retain his place between the posts.<h2>Defence</h2>Ghana’s four-man defensive system worked effectively against Panama, and the coaching staff are likely to stick with the same setup.Jonas Adjetey and Jerome Opoku are expected to continue their partnership in central defence, while Gideon Mensah should retain his role at left-back. Marvin Senaya is also likely to keep his position at right-back as Ghana aim to contain England’s dangerous attacking threats.<h2>Midfield</h2>Thomas Partey is expected to return to the starting lineup after missing the Panama game due to visa issues that prevented his entry into Canada.The experienced midfielder is likely to partner Caleb Yirenkyi, who impressed with his energetic and composed performance in the opening match. Elisha Owusu could complete the midfield trio in what is expected to be a three-man midfield system designed to provide defensive stability and control against England.<h2>Attack</h2>Antoine Semenyo was one of Ghana’s standout performers against Panama and was deservedly named Man of the Match. Semenyo is expected to keep his place on the left wing as he looks to continue his strong form.Ernest Nuamah is likely to operate on the right flank, using his pace and creativity to trouble England’s defence, while captain Jordan Ayew is expected to lead the attack in a 4-3-2-1 formation.<h2>Predicted Ghana XI vs England</h2>Benjamin Asare, Marvin Senaya, Jonas Adjetey, Jerome Opoku, Gideon Mensah, Thomas Partey, Caleb Yirenkyi, Elisha Owusu, Ernest Nuamah, Antoine Semenyo, and Jordan Ayew.

England vs Ghana: Predicted Black Stars Lineup

The Ghana Police Service has arrested six private security guards in connection with the shooting incident involving former Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo at Kwabenya on June 21, 2026.According to a statement issued by the police, a follow-up search operation led to the recovery of several weapons and ammunition, including five pump-action guns; a Taurus pistol loaded with seven rounds of 9mm ammunition; an additional magazine containing five rounds of 9mm ammunition; as well as communication equipment.Police said preliminary investigations revealed that personnel from the National Operations Directorate and the Intelligence Directorate, who were on a special assignment, responded to a distress call from a residence in Kwabenya and proceeded to the location.Upon arrival, officers established that a ceremony was underway at the residence of Mr. Tamakloe Safo Jehoshaphat, popularly known as Akofena, when Adwoa Safo reportedly arrived and sought entry to the premises but was allegedly denied access.Investigators further indicated that armed security personnel stationed at the residence allegedly discharged firearms during the incident, resulting in injuries to the former lawmaker.Police also discovered multiple gunshot marks on Adwoa Safo's vehicle, strengthening ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.The six suspects, together with the recovered weapons and other exhibits, have been transferred to the police headquarters to assist with further investigations.The Ghana Police Service stated that efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend all other individuals who may have been involved in the incident.<h3>Kristo Asafo Mission Rejects Shooting Claims</h3>Meanwhile, the Kristo Asafo Mission has disputed reports that Adwoa Safo sustained a gunshot wound during the confrontation.In a separate statement, the church acknowledged that an incident occurred at its Kwabenya premises but described claims that the former MP was shot as inaccurate and misleading.The church has urged the public to allow the official investigations to determine the facts surrounding the incident.The shooting incident occurred amid heightened tensions over the leadership succession of the Kristo Asafo Mission following the installation of Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena as the church's new leader.

6 security guards arrested over Adwoa Safo shooting 

<h3>Lawyer for the Kristo Asafo Mission, Nana Kofi Kantanka, has alleged that former Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo fired the first shot during an incident that disrupted the formal introduction of the church’s newly installed leader.</h3>Speaking on JoyNews on Sunday, June 21, Nana Kofi Kantanka said the gathering had been organised to officially present the church's new leader to members of the General Council, the body that represents the wider membership of the Kristo Asafo Mission.Responding to reports of gunfire at the event, the lawyer claimed that Adwoa Safo arrived at the venue and attempted to gain entry by driving her vehicle through the premises' gates.According to him, attendees initially heard loud noises which were later discovered to have come from a vehicle crashing into the southern gate of the property.He alleged that Adwoa Safo was inside the vehicle and, after failing to gain access through the southern entrance, proceeded to the northern gate, where a similar incident reportedly occurred.Nana Kofi Kantanka further claimed that private security personnel stationed at the venue became concerned about the safety of attendees, given the large crowd gathered for the event."The information I got was that she fired the first shot and then banged the gate with her car. The private security also knew that the lives of people were at risk, so they were giving warning shots," he said.The lawyer, however, stated that he could not independently confirm reports that Adwoa Safo sustained injuries during the incident."As to whether she was wounded, I can't confirm that," he added.He also dismissed claims that the former legislator had been denied entry to the ceremony, insisting that she would have been allowed access had she followed the normal entry procedures."No one prevented her from entering. If she had parked and indicated she wanted to enter, that would have been all," he stated.According to Nana Kofi Kantanka, the matter is currently under investigation, with both state security agencies and church authorities expected to establish the facts surrounding the confrontation."We [Church] will also conduct our private investigation, and anybody who has perpetrated any wrongdoing will be prosecuted," he said.His comments come after reports emerged that Adwoa Safo was receiving medical treatment following an alleged shooting incident near the residence of her brother, Israel Kwadwo Safo, popularly known as Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena, amid ongoing tensions over the leadership succession of the Kristo Asafo Mission.

What caused the shooting of Adwoa Safo? Kristo Asafo lawyer reveals

Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena has officially been installed as the new leader of the Kristo Asafo Mission, marking a significant transition in the leadership of one of Ghana’s most influential religious organisations.The installation ceremony was held on Sunday, June 21, at his residence, despite ongoing legal challenges and growing controversy surrounding the church's succession process following the death of its founder, Apostle Emeritus Kwadwo Safo.The development comes at a time of heightened tension within the Kristo Asafo family and the wider church community.Hours before the installation, former Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament, Sarah Adwoa Safo, reportedly came under attack when gunmen allegedly opened fire on her vehicle near the residence of her younger brother, Israel Kwadwo Safo, popularly known as Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena.Reports indicate that the former legislator sustained minor injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, although some reports have alleged that the attackers were linked to supporters of Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena. No official confirmation has been provided by the Ghana Police Service.The installation also proceeded despite an ongoing court case seeking to halt the succession process. Two senior members of the Kristo Asafo Mission recently filed a suit at the High Court in Accra, challenging the legitimacy of Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena’s appointment as leader of the church.The plaintiffs contend that amendments made to the church's constitution in 2024 altered the succession framework and disqualified him from assuming the position. They argue that although he had previously been designated as successor under an earlier arrangement, the revised constitution supersedes those provisions.As a result, they are seeking legal orders to prevent his installation and recognition as leader of the church.<h3>Legacy of Apostle Kwadwo Safo</h3>Apostle Emeritus Kwadwo Safo, founder of the Kristo Asafo Mission and the Kantanka Group, passed away in September 2025.Widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most accomplished inventors, industrialists and religious leaders, he was celebrated for championing indigenous technology, innovation and automobile manufacturing through the Kantanka brand.His passing marked the end of an era and set the stage for the ongoing succession battle over the future leadership of the Kristo Asafo Mission.

Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena installed as Kristo Asafo leader amid court dispute and family tensions

Former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo is reportedly receiving medical care after gunmen allegedly opened fire on her vehicle near the residence of her younger brother, Israel Kwadwo Safo, also known as Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena.The incident is said to have occurred on Sunday at the premises of Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena’s residence, where he was reportedly meeting supporters in relation to efforts to position him as successor to his late father, Apostle Emeritus Kwadwo Safo.According to reports, officers from the Dome District Police Command were swiftly deployed to the scene after being alerted as tensions escalated in the area.Witnesses allege that Adwoa Safo was present when armed men, reportedly acting on instructions linked to Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena, opened fire on her vehicle. The attackers are said to have discharged about 15 rounds of ammunition, with one bullet allegedly grazing her neck.She was immediately rushed to a medical facility and is currently undergoing treatment. Sources close to her indicate that she is in stable condition.The incident comes amid rising tensions within the Kristo Asafo family over the leadership succession following the death of Apostle Emeritus Kwadwo Safo. The matter has already sparked legal disputes involving attempts to install Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena as the next head of the church.As of now, the Ghana Police Service has not issued an official statement on the reported shooting.

Gunmen open fire on Sarah Adwoa Safo’s vehicle – Reports

A leadership succession battle has erupted within the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana, with two senior church members filing a lawsuit at the High Court in Accra to halt the installation and recognition of a successor to the late founder, Apostle Kwadwo Safo.The legal action, filed on June 19, challenges the eligibility of Israel Kwadwo Safo, also known as Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena, to assume leadership of the church following the death of the renowned inventor and industrialist in September 2025.The plaintiffs, Kweku Agyenim Boateng, a former deputy general secretary of the church, and Seth Appiah Richard Brown, a former executive assistant to the church leader, argue that the succession process being pursued is inconsistent with the church's constitution.Also named in the suit are Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana, Festus Owusu Badu, Dr Kwadwo Addo Oduro, and Robert Ntiful.<h3>Church Constitution at the Centre of Dispute</h3>According to court documents, the plaintiffs maintain that the Kristo Asafo Mission is governed by a constitution first adopted in 2017 and later amended in 2024. They insist that these constitutional provisions remain the highest authority regulating the church's affairs.Following Apostle Kwadwo Safo's death, questions reportedly emerged regarding who should legally succeed him as leader of the church.The plaintiffs cite Article 26(1)(a) of the church's constitution, which they say requires a successor to be appointed within three months of the leader's death and outlines clear qualifications and procedures for succession.Although they acknowledge that Israel Kwadwo Safo had previously been designated as successor under an earlier constitutional framework, they argue that amendments introduced in 2024 changed the succession structure and effectively removed him from eligibility.They further contend that the 2024 amendments reflected the final intentions of the late founder concerning the future leadership of the church.<h3>Planned Installation Faces Legal Challenge</h3>The lawsuit alleges that despite the constitutional changes, efforts are underway to install and publicly recognise Israel Kwadwo Safo as the new leader of Kristo Asafo Mission.The plaintiffs claim they became aware of plans for a formal public ceremony aimed at confirming his leadership.According to them, any installation or recognition conducted under the current circumstances would be unlawful and contrary to the church's governing constitution.They also argue that the ongoing succession controversy has created tension, uncertainty and divisions among members, potentially threatening the unity and stability of the religious organisation.<h3>Court Asked to Stop Installation</h3>The plaintiffs are seeking several declarations and injunctions from the court, including a ruling that the 2017 constitution and its 2024 amendments remain the valid governing documents of the church.They also want the court to declare that Israel Kwadwo Safo is not qualified to be appointed, installed or recognised as the leader of the Kristo Asafo Mission under the current constitutional framework.Additionally, they are requesting a perpetual injunction preventing any installation, presentation or recognition of him as church leader, as well as an order compelling strict adherence to the church's constitutional succession procedures.<h3>Case Draws National Attention</h3>Founded by Apostle Kwadwo Safo, Kristo Asafo Mission has grown into one of Ghana's most influential religious organisations, with significant interests in education, technology, manufacturing and religion.The late founder was widely respected for his contributions to indigenous technology and industrial innovation through the Kantanka Group.The case is expected to attract widespread public interest as it could determine the future leadership direction of one of Ghana's most prominent religious institutions.The High Court is yet to set a date for hearing the matter.

Two Kristo Asafo members drag church to court over Apostle Kwadwo Safo's successor

Goalkeeper Eloy Room delivered a sensational performance as Curaçao secured a historic first-ever FIFA World Cup point with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against the Ecuador national football team at Kansas City Stadium.The veteran shot-stopper produced an outstanding 15 saves to frustrate Ecuador throughout the contest, helping the World Cup debutants earn a memorable result. The draw also ensured that the German national football team finished top of Group E following their earlier victory over the Ivorian national football team.Ecuador nearly made the perfect start in the third minute when Moisés Caicedo released Enner Valencia with a superb pass from deep. After beating his marker, Valencia looked destined to score, but Room produced a brilliant save to tip the effort behind.Room continued to stand firm as Ecuador piled on the pressure. He comfortably dealt with John Yeboah's low drive before denying Valencia again from close range after the striker latched onto a dangerous delivery from Piero Hincapié.Yeboah tested the Curacao goalkeeper once more with a powerful effort shortly before half-time, but Room remained unbeatable. Ecuador's dominance continued after the break, with Caicedo forcing another save from distance as Curacao struggled to gain possession.Despite spending long periods on the defensive, Curacao nearly stunned their opponents on the counterattack. Ecuador goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez was called into action, producing two important saves to deny Leandro Bacuna and Livano Comenencia in quick succession.Room's heroics continued after the hour mark when he reacted sharply to push Valencia's header around the post. From the resulting corner, Curacao defender Sherel Floranus made a crucial block before Room denied Willian Pacho from close range.Both teams pushed for a late winner. Galíndez produced a superb reflex save to stop Juninho Bacuna, but Room once again stole the spotlight with a flying save to keep out Pedro Vite's powerful strike.Even when Room was finally beaten, luck remained on Curacao's side. In the 90th minute, Ángelo Preciado saw his cross strike the crossbar, allowing Curacao to survive and seal a famous draw that sparked jubilant celebrations among their travelling supporters.The result will be remembered as one of the greatest moments in Curacao's football history, with Room's remarkable goalkeeping display proving the difference on a landmark night for the Caribbean nation.

Curacao make World Cup history as Eloy Room's 15 saves earn draw against Ecuador

African and Caribbean countries have called for a formal apology and reparations from countries that benefited from the transatlantic slave trade.The demands come at the end of a three-day conference in Ghana which looked to advance the push for reparatory justice.It follows a landmark UN resolution earlier in March which recognised transatlantic slavery as the "gravest crime against humanity", urging UN member states to contribute to a reparations fund.Around 12-15 million African men, women and children were captured and trafficked to the Americas to work as slaves from the 15th to the 19th century.A 19-point reparations plan has been endorsed as part of the "Next Steps" conference in the Ghanaian capital of Accra.It calls for comprehensive debt relief, the restitution of looted cultural property, and the establishment of a global reparations fund, though no specific amount was stated. It also addresses the disproportionate impact of slavery on African women and girls.The conference leaders also called on countries formerly involved in the slave trade to offer their "full, formal and unconditional apologies".Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama told delegates: "History does not ask us to inherit guilt, but it asks us to inherit responsibility."French President Emmanuel Macron also gave a virtual note at the conference, where he recognised that enslaved people were "dehumanised and treated as goods".However, he cautioned against reducing reparations for slavery to financial compensation alone, saying they should not be seen as a "cheque written to bring the story to a close".The UN General Assembly vote took place in March, with 123 votes in favour and three votes – the United States, Israel and Argentina – against declaring the transatlantic slave trade a crime against humanity.52 countries, including the United Kingdom and European Union member states, abstained.Unlike UN Security Council resolutions, those from the General Assembly are not legally binding.The UK has long rejected calls to pay reparations, saying today's institutions cannot be held responsible for past wrongs."No single set of atrocities should be regarded as more or less significant than another," UK ambassador to the UN James Kariuki had then said.The US ambassador to the UN echoed this, saying his country did not "recognise a legal right to reparations for historical wrongs that were not illegal under international law at the time they occurred".He added that the UN resolution was unclear as to "whom the recipients of 'reparatory justice' would be".No country has ever paid reparations to the descendants of enslaved Africans or affected African, Caribbean and Latin American nations.Most of the reparations paid by governments came in the form of compensation to slave owners in the 19th century, rather than to those who had been enslaved.That includes the UK – in the 1830s, following the abolition of slavery, the country paid owners the equivalent of more than $21bn (£16bn) in today's money.Source:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2rl8z5x7no"> BBC</a>

Africa demands apology and reparations for Transatlantic Slavery

The Ministry of Education has announced the immediate suspension of all Senior High School (SHS) graduation ceremonies across Ghana amid growing concerns over extravagant displays of wealth during such events.The directive, issued by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, will remain in force pending a review of the guidelines governing graduation ceremonies in second-cycle institutions.<h2>The ministry cites growing public concerns.</h2>In a statement released on Saturday, June 20, the Ministry said it had observed increasing public criticism over the manner in which some SHS graduation ceremonies are being conducted.According to the Ministry, schools are institutions established to promote learning, discipline, character development, and responsible citizenship. As such, graduation ceremonies should reflect these core values rather than becoming platforms for ostentatious displays of wealth.The Ministry stressed that graduation events are intended to celebrate students' academic achievements and personal growth and should therefore be marked by modesty, dignity, and respect.<h2>Haruna Iddrisu orders nationwide suspension</h2>As part of efforts to address the issue, the Minister for Education directed the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) to suspend all SHS graduation ceremonies across the country with immediate effect.The Ministry explained that the suspension will allow authorities to review existing regulations and establish measures that ensure school ceremonies align with the objectives of Ghana's education system.Officials also condemned any actions by students, parents, guardians, or stakeholders that shift attention away from the educational purpose of such events."The Ministry strongly condemns any conduct that promotes extravagance and detracts from the true purpose of school ceremonies," the statement noted.<h2>GES bans lavish post-examination celebrations.</h2>The latest directive comes shortly after the Ghana Education Service announced a ban on extravagant post-examination celebrations on school campuses.Under the new policy, parents and guardians are prohibited from presenting expensive gifts such as motor vehicles, money bouquets, and other luxury items to students on school premises after completing their SHS education.GES said it had become increasingly concerned about a growing trend of flamboyant celebrations taking place in schools, warning that the practice undermines the values of equality and merit that educational institutions seek to promote.<h2>Schools should remain equal spaces for all students.</h2>According to GES, schools are designed to serve as social equalisers where academic performance, discipline, and personal effort take precedence over economic status.The Service warned that public displays of wealth on school grounds risk creating visible socio-economic divisions among students while placing unnecessary psychological pressure on those from less privileged backgrounds.GES argued that lavish celebrations could shift focus from academic achievement to financial privilege, potentially affecting the inclusive environment schools are expected to maintain.<h2>School heads face sanctions.</h2>The Ghana Education Service has further warned that heads of schools who permit such extravagant celebrations on their campuses will face sanctions.The service called on parents, guardians, and other stakeholders to cooperate with the directive and support efforts to preserve discipline, equality, and moral development within Ghana's educational institutions.The Ministry of Education reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all school-related activities uphold the highest standards of responsibility, discipline, and character formation as part of the broader goals of Ghana's education system.

GES bans the presentation of expensive gifts, including cars and money bouquets, on school campuses

Some of the deadliest creatures on Earth aren't lions or sharks — they're small, often beautiful, and built with toxins powerful enough to kill in minutes. From rainforest frogs to ocean dwellers, these five animals prove that size has nothing to do with how dangerous a creature can be.<h2>1. Golden Poison Dart Frog</h2>Widely considered the most poisonous animal on the planet, the golden poison dart frog is barely two inches long but carries enough toxin to kill 10 to 20 adult humans, or up to 10,000 mice. Found mainly in Colombia, its bright colouring is a warning sign in nature, alerting predators to stay away. For centuries, Indigenous communities in the region have used the frog's potent secretions to coat the tips of hunting darts, which is how it earned its name.<h2>2. Pufferfish</h2>The pufferfish may look comical, but it's regarded as the second most poisonous animal in the world. Its skin and internal organs, particularly the liver, contain a toxin called tetrodotoxin, which can cause numbness, paralysis, and death if ingested. Despite the danger, the pufferfish is considered a delicacy in Japan, where it's served as fugu – but only after rigorous preparation by specially licensed chefs trained to remove the toxic parts safely.<h2>3. Box Jellyfish</h2>Found in the coastal waters of Australia and parts of Southeast Asia, the box jellyfish is one of the most venomous marine animals known. Its venom can attack the heart, nervous system, and skin all at once, causing intense pain and, in severe cases, cardiac arrest within minutes. Thousands of deaths have been linked to box jellyfish stings worldwide, making it one of the ocean's most feared creatures despite its translucent, almost invisible appearance.<h2>4. Brazilian Wandering Spider</h2>Recognised by Guinness World Records as the most venomous spider on Earth, the Brazilian wandering spider delivers a bite that can cause severe pain, breathing difficulties, and loss of muscle control. Unlike many spiders that wait in webs, this species actively roams forest floors and sometimes urban areas at night, which is how it earned its name. Thousands of bites have been recorded, though prompt antivenom treatment has made fatalities rare in recent years.<h2>5. Inland Taipan</h2>Native to the remote outback of Australia, the inland taipan holds the title for the most toxic venom of any snake in the world. A single bite contains enough neurotoxin to kill a person in well under an hour if left untreated. Despite this fearsome reputation, the inland taipan is shy and rarely encountered by humans, and effective antivenom means there are no confirmed human deaths on record from this snake.

5 most poisonous animals in the world (Ranked)

A fourteen-year-old girl has died in Binaba in the Upper East Region after a young man reportedly broke into her room with a sharp object, cut off her underclothes and reportedly slept with her and killed her instantly.The deceased Suleimana Matan Baba was at home alone when her parents attended a funeral at Gambaga in the North East Region, leaving her behind at the residence.Narrating the incident, the victim's father who is a fisher folk indicated that his deceased daughter had already issued a complain to her mother indicating one young man had attempted to rape her in the house on a different day. The suspect whom she reportedly mentioned as Kay 2 later went to the Kusanaba senior high school to rape female students but was apprehended by the students.The family of the deceased indicated they are dissatisfied that the police in the area have since not taken any action in the matter. They are, however, calling on the Inspector General of Police, Tetteh Yahonu, to intervene for justice to prevail.Story By: Ibrahim Abode

Binaba: 14-year-old girl reportedly raped and killed; family demands justice 

Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho has signed an agreement with Italian Serie C club Ravenna FC at the age of 46, sparking excitement among football fans worldwide. However, uncertainty remains over whether the former World Cup winner will actually feature in a competitive match for the club.According to reports from Gazzetta dello Sport, the former Barcelona and AC Milan star will be officially presented by Ravenna during a special event in Miami on June 23.<h2>Ronaldinho Excited About New Chapter</h2>Speaking after the announcement, Ronaldinho expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Italian side."New colours, same smile," Ronaldinho said.The Brazilian legend added that football has always been a source of happiness in his life and that he hopes to bring that same energy and passion to Ravenna."I can't wait to dance on the ball again and write a new story together with Ignazio and the entire Cipriani family," he stated.<h2>Ravenna Owner Hails Ronaldinho Signing</h2>Ravenna owner Ignazio Cipriani described the signing as a historic moment for the club.Having spent much of his life in the United States, Cipriani said Ravenna remains close to his heart and revealed that Ronaldinho was one of his football idols growing up."Bringing Ronaldinho to the club is something extraordinary. His influence on football extends far beyond what he achieved on the pitch," Cipriani said.<h2>Will Ronaldinho play in Serie C?</h2>Despite the excitement surrounding the deal, questions remain over whether Ronaldinho will actually play for Ravenna during the 2026-27 Serie C season.The club's vice-president, Ariedo Braida, clarified that the Brazilian's involvement is primarily linked to promotional and marketing activities."Ronaldinho will participate in marketing events with us, but he will not play for Ravenna in Serie C next season," Braida told Italian media.He added that while he would love to see Ronaldinho back on the pitch, the football legend is now 46 years old and unlikely to return to competitive football.Braida previously played a key role in bringing Ronaldinho to AC Milan in 2008 and described him as one of the greatest talents he has ever worked with.<h2>A Career Filled With Glory</h2>Ronaldinho last played a competitive match in 2015 for Brazilian club Fluminense, bringing an end to one of football's most celebrated careers.The Brazilian enjoyed successful spells with top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, FC Barcelona and AC Milan.During his time at Milan between 2008 and 2011, Ronaldinho scored 26 goals in 95 appearances.His list of achievements includes winning the 2002 FIFA World Cup with the Brazil national football team and lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy with Barcelona.While fans may be dreaming of one final competitive appearance, current indications suggest Ronaldinho's role at Ravenna will be focused on promoting the club rather than making a return to professional football.

Ronaldinho comes out of retirement to sign for Italian club Ravenna at 46

Management of Central University has confirmed that it is working closely with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and other relevant authorities following the arrest of five students over their alleged involvement in the production and distribution of cannabis and cannabis-infused products on campus.In an official statement issued on June 19, 2026, the university said it had become aware of reports concerning the detention of five individuals by NACOC following an incident linked to activities organised during the Students' Representative Council (SRC) Week celebrations.According to the statement signed by the Registrar, the university is currently seeking verified information regarding the incident while allowing law enforcement agencies to complete their investigations."At this stage, the University is engaging with NACOC and other relevant authorities to establish the facts and obtain verified information regarding the circumstances surrounding the matter," the statement said.The university added that it would refrain from commenting further on the allegations until investigations are concluded, stressing the need to avoid speculation and allow due legal processes to take their course.<h2>Students Allegedly Produced and Sold Cannabis-Infused Products</h2>The five suspects, reportedly students in Levels 100, 300 and 400, were arrested following intelligence gathered by authorities regarding suspected drug-related activities within the university community.Preliminary investigations suggest that the students were allegedly involved in the production and sale of cannabis-infused products, including ice cream, sobolo, toffees, pepper and eggs. Authorities also suspect that they were dealing in raw cannabis.During the operation, NACOC officials reportedly recovered quantities of suspected narcotic substances, which have since been seized and submitted for forensic examination.<h2>SRC Week Activities Suspended</h2>As part of efforts to maintain safety and order on campus, Central University announced the immediate suspension of all remaining SRC Week activities pending a comprehensive review of the incident and existing event management procedures.The university reiterated its commitment to providing a secure and conducive environment for learning while upholding the highest standards of discipline, integrity and responsibility among students and staff.<h2>NACOC Intensifies Fight Against Drug Activities on Campuses</h2>NACOC has reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug trafficking and substance abuse within educational institutions across Ghana. The commission has repeatedly warned students against engaging in the production, sale or consumption of illegal narcotic substances.The arrested students are expected to assist investigators as authorities work to determine the full extent of the alleged operation and identify any other individuals who may be connected to the activities under investigation.<h2>University Assures Stakeholders of Full Cooperation</h2>Central University assured students, parents, staff, alumni and the general public that it is fully cooperating with NACOC and other state agencies in the ongoing investigations.Management stressed that the institution remains focused on its core mission of academic excellence, character development and the holistic growth of students while maintaining the highest standards of safety and institutional integrity.The university stated that further updates will be provided as more verified information becomes available from the relevant authorities.

Central University engages NACOC after arrest of 5 students over alleged cannabis operation

The United States government has announced plans to gradually end its funding for HIV and Aids programmes in South Africa, citing concerns over the country's policies and what it describes as a failure to address issues affecting the white Afrikaner minority.The decision marks another setback in relations between the two countries, which have deteriorated since the return of Donald Trump to the White House.South Africa is home to more than eight million people living with HIV, the highest number globally. For years, the country has benefited from significant financial support through the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which provided approximately $400 million annually until 2025.<h3>The US cites policy concerns.</h3>The move follows an executive order signed by President Trump shortly after taking office, in which he accused South Africa of implementing policies that undermine equal opportunities and contribute to discrimination against white landowners, particularly Afrikaners.The South African government has strongly rejected these claims, maintaining that its Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policies are designed to address long-standing economic inequalities created during apartheid.Washington has also expressed dissatisfaction with South Africa's foreign policy positions, including its legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and its diplomatic ties with Iran.According to a US State Department official, the phased withdrawal of PEPFAR funding is linked to South Africa's failure to make what the administration considers sufficient progress on key policy concerns.The official added that the move is intended to encourage greater self-reliance, arguing that South Africa, as a middle-income country, is capable of financing its own health programmes.<h3>South Africa responds</h3>South Africa's Department of Health said it had not received formal notification of the funding withdrawal but noted that it has been preparing for reduced donor support through a long-term self-sufficiency strategy.Officials also stressed that the country's life-saving antiretroviral treatment programme is largely funded by the government and would continue operating independently of US assistance.While PEPFAR contributes significantly to HIV prevention, testing and support services, the South African government maintains that treatment for millions of patients remains secure.<h3>Diplomatic tensions continue.</h3>Relations between Washington and Pretoria have remained strained over the past year. A high-profile meeting between President Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reportedly saw the US leader raise concerns about the treatment of Afrikaners and allegations of discrimination against white South Africans.The Trump administration has also repeatedly claimed that white South Africans face persecution, allegations that Pretoria has consistently denied.The diplomatic rift was further highlighted when the United States boycotted a G20 meeting hosted by South Africa last year.Despite the funding cuts, South African health authorities insist that the country's HIV response remains resilient and that plans are already in place to reduce dependence on foreign aid.<h3></h3>

US to end South Africa HIV funding over claims of Afrikaner persecution

The Government of Niger, through the Ministry of Defence, has issued an official statement regarding the attack on Diori Hamani International Airport and the adjacent military airbase in Niamey, the country's capital.According to the statement, the assault targeted the airport-airbase complex. Eyewitnesses reported hearing explosions and sustained gunfire in and around the facility before security forces regained control of the area.Reports indicate that some of the attackers arrived in a commercial taxi and opened fire on the military base. Security forces responded swiftly, resulting in the neutralisation of 22 attackers, while several others were arrested.The government confirmed that 11 members of the security forces and two civilians were killed during the exchange of fire.Guidi Abdourahaman, popularly known as Junior, a Nigerien journalist with Alternative Radio in Diffa, told Ghanaian journalist Ibrahim Abode that residents are currently living in fear following the attack. However, he noted that a strong military presence has been deployed across the area to maintain security.Niger, under the leadership of Captain Abdourahamane Tchiani, has been battling terrorist groups operating across the sub-region. Neighbouring countries, including Burkina Faso and Mali, are facing similar security challenges.Story By: Ibrahim Abode

Niger clarifies casualties after deadly attack on Niamey Airport and Military base

When people picture dangerous animals, lions, sharks, and snakes usually come to mind first. Birds rarely make the list — but they should. From bone-crushing kicks to a toxin found nowhere else in the bird world, these five species prove that danger in the animal kingdom doesn't always come with fangs or fur.<h2>1. Cassowary </h2><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1781908994659-95tm5r2uu9k.jpg" alt="Cassowaries in the forest. Image: © leahdrummomd (CC) BY-NC, via iNaturalist" data-credit="Cassowaries in the forest. Image: © leahdrummomd (CC) BY-NC, via iNaturalist" title="Cassowaries in the forest. Image: © leahdrummomd (CC) BY-NC, via iNaturalist" width="auto" height="auto"></div>The cassowary tops nearly every list of dangerous birds, and for good reason. Found in the rainforests of northeastern Australia and New Guinea, it's the only modern bird on record to have killed a human in the wild.Its weapon is a long, dagger-like claw on its middle toe. When threatened, the cassowary can leap and kick with enough force to slash open skin and muscle. Add powerful legs and surprising speed, and it's easy to see why this bird has such a fearsome reputation.Interestingly, experts say cassowaries are naturally shy and curious rather than aggressive. Most attacks happen when the bird is cornered or defending its chicks or eggs — not out of unprovoked hostility.<h2>2. Ostrich</h2>The ostrich is the largest bird alive today, with males standing close to nine feet tall and weighing over 330 pounds. That size comes with serious power.A single kick from an ostrich's leg can kill a predator outright. The bird can also sprint at speeds up to 70 km/h, making it one of the fastest land animals on the planet. During nesting season, males become especially territorial and won't hesitate to charge anything they see as a threat.<h2>3. Emu </h2>Closely related to the cassowary, the emu is Australia's largest native bird and another animal best admired from a distance. Emus can run at nearly 50 km/h, and when cornered, they strike with sharp-clawed, three-toed feet capable of causing serious injury.While emus generally avoid conflict, their speed and powerful legs make them a force to be reckoned with when threatened.<h2>4. Hooded Pitohui</h2>Not every dangerous bird relies on claws or kicks. The hooded pitohui, a brightly coloured songbird from New Guinea, is one of the only birds in the world known to be poisonous.Its skin and feathers contain batrachotoxin — the same deadly neurotoxin found on poison dart frogs. Scientists believe the bird absorbs this toxin from its diet rather than producing it. Even a tiny amount can cause paralysis or cardiac arrest, making this small, striking bird far more dangerous than it looks.<h2>5. Peregrine Falcon</h2>The peregrine falcon earns its place on this list through speed and precision. As the fastest animal on Earth, it can reach extraordinary diving speeds while hunting, snatching prey out of mid-air with razor-sharp talons.Found almost everywhere in the world, the peregrine falcon preys on a wide range of birds — from pigeons to birds as large as geese — making it one of the most efficient predators in the sky.<h2></h2>

5 most dangerous birds in the world you should know

Ireland has deported 42 South African nationals, including 15 children, on a government-chartered flight from Dublin to Johannesburg as part of its ongoing efforts to enforce immigration laws.The Irish Department of Justice confirmed that the operation was conducted on Thursday by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) under deportation orders issued by Ireland's Minister for Justice, Jim O'Callaghan.The deported group consisted of nine men, 18 women and 15 minors. Authorities clarified that all children were deported alongside their families and were not removed separately.The charter flight departed Dublin Airport at 3:30 p.m. local time and landed in Johannesburg at approximately 4:00 a.m. Irish time on Friday. The deportees were accompanied by members of the police service, medical personnel, an interpreter and an independent human rights observer.<h3>Two Deportees Had Criminal Convictions</h3>Irish officials revealed that two of the individuals removed from the country had been convicted of criminal offences in Ireland. Their deportation formed part of wider immigration enforcement operations being carried out nationwide.The Department of Justice disclosed that the charter flight cost €735,000, excluding VAT, for the return journey. It marked Ireland's fourth deportation charter operation of 2026.Official figures show that three previous charter flights this year resulted in the removal of 130 people, including 67 European Union citizens deported on criminality-related grounds.<h3>Ireland Defends Deportation Operation</h3>Defending the move, Minister O'Callaghan stressed that enforcing deportation orders is essential to maintaining confidence in Ireland's immigration system."Our immigration system must be rules-based and robust. The enforcement aspects of our laws, including deportation orders, are an essential requirement for the system to work effectively."However, he emphasised that the deportations should not be viewed as representative of the broader South African community living in Ireland.According to the minister, the overwhelming majority of South Africans residing in Ireland do so legally and make valuable contributions to the country's economy and society.<h3>More Deportation Flights Planned</h3>Ireland's Minister of State for Migration, Colm Brophy, also acknowledged the positive role migrants play in Ireland's development but stressed that migration must occur through lawful channels.The Department of Justice indicated that additional charter deportation flights are expected before the end of 2026 as part of the government's broader immigration enforcement strategy.

Ireland deports 42 South Africans, including 15 children, over immigration violations

Nigeria’s celebrated chef and culinary entrepreneur Hilda Baci has achieved another historic milestone after being officially named a Guinness World Records Icon, becoming the first Nigerian to receive the prestigious global recognition.The honour is reserved for individuals whose record-breaking achievements extend beyond statistics to create lasting global influence. According to Guinness World Records, Hilda Baci’s accomplishments have sparked a major cultural wave, inspiring more than 1,500 new record applications from Nigeria within just two months of her first attempt.In response to the announcement, Hilda shared a reflective video montage capturing key moments of her journey, including her initial cook-a-thon, her large-scale mass catering achievements, and emotional calls from the Guinness World Records team confirming her milestones.The chef also opened up about her struggles with imposter syndrome, revealing that despite her success, she often found it difficult to fully accept her achievements. She admitted that she sometimes referred to herself in the third person as a way of processing her rapid rise to global recognition.Hilda dedicated the award to everyone who supported her journey, including chefs, media professionals, production teams, and supporters across Nigeria and Africa, expressing pride in putting Nigeria on the global map.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1781874872709-5ytumk7mbub.jpg" alt="Hilda Baci wearing a face mask and an orange apron while tipping ingredients from a large metal pan into a massive cooking pot during her second successful record run. Photo Credit: Guinness World Records/Instagram" data-credit="Hilda Baci wearing a face mask and an orange apron while tipping ingredients from a large metal pan into a massive cooking pot during her second successful record run. Photo Credit: Guinness World Records/Instagram" title="Hilda Baci wearing a face mask and an orange apron while tipping ingredients from a large metal pan into a massive cooking pot during her second successful record run. Photo Credit: Guinness World Records/Instagram" width="auto" height="auto"></div><h3>Hilda Baci’s Guinness World Records Journey</h3><ul><li>May 2023: Cooked continuously for 93 hours and 11 minutes in Lagos, setting a record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.</li><li>September 2025: Led a mass cooking event producing 8,780kg of Nigerian Jollof rice, feeding over 16,600 people in Lagos.</li><li>January 2026: Officially confirmed as a triple record holder after her Jollof rice feat also set a record for the largest serving of rice globally.</li></ul>Her achievements have now cemented her status as one of Africa’s most influential culinary figures on the global stage.<h2></h2>

Hilda Baci named Guinness World Records icon after historic cooking achievements

Zimbabwe's lower house of parliament has approved a controversial constitutional amendment that could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030, extending his tenure beyond the current limit.The proposed legislation, passed on Thursday, received overwhelming support from lawmakers, with 216 members voting in favour and 42 opposing it. The vote comfortably exceeded the two-thirds majority required to amend the constitution.The bill proposes several significant changes to Zimbabwe's political system, including extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years and postponing the next general elections from 2028 to 2030.Another major provision would abolish direct presidential elections, allowing future heads of state to be elected by parliament instead of the general public.Mnangagwa, 83, came to power in 2017 after the military-backed removal of former president Robert Mugabe. He later secured victories in the 2018 and 2023 elections, both of which were disputed by opposition parties.If approved by the Senate and signed into law, the constitutional changes would allow Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030, despite his current and constitutionally final term being due to end in 2028.The amendment represents the culmination of a long-running campaign by the ruling Zanu-PF party, which has governed Zimbabwe since the country's independence in 1980. The government's cabinet endorsed the proposal earlier this year.The legislation now moves to the Senate, where it is widely expected to gain approval before being sent to President Mnangagwa for assent.Opposition parties, legal experts and civil society organisations have strongly criticised the proposed changes, arguing that such fundamental constitutional reforms should be decided through a national referendum rather than parliamentary approval alone.Critics also point to Zimbabwe's 2013 Constitution, which introduced a two-term presidential limit and stipulated that any extension of term limits should be approved by voters through a referendum. The constitution further states that a sitting president cannot personally benefit from such changes without public endorsement.Despite these concerns, Zimbabwe's Constitutional Court dismissed a legal challenge seeking to halt the bill on Wednesday, clearing the way for lawmakers to proceed with the vote.The proposed reforms have reignited debate about Zimbabwe's democratic future. Supporters argue that the changes will provide political stability and continuity, while opponents warn they could weaken democratic accountability and further concentrate power in the presidency.The bill's passage marks a significant moment in Zimbabwean politics and could reshape the country's governance structure for years to come.

Zimbabwean MPs pass bill to extend 83-year-old President Mnangagwa's time in power

Thirty-five people have been killed after gunmen struck Niger's largest airport on Thursday, officials say – the second attack in less than five months.Residents in the predominately Muslim country told the BBC they had just finished their morning prayers when explosions and gunshot sounds rang out from Diori Hamani International Airport, located in the capital, Niamey.In the evening, Niger's defence ministry said the fatalities comprised 22 assailants, 11 soldiers, and two civilians.Niger has been fighting an Islamist insurgency for a decade, and in January, an organisation linked to the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for an attack on the same airport.No group has said it was responsible for Thursday's attack.The violence had settled by mid-morning, and security forces have since launched a manhunt for the attackers.Lawalli Tsalha, who lives near the airport, which also hosts a military base, told the BBC: 'We finished our prayer at about 05:50 (04:50 GMT), and shortly afterwards we heard a loud bang – like something had exploded, perhaps a tyre.'"It was only a little later that we realised what was happening."Media reports and witnesses said multiple attackers were detained.Armed local residents joined the manhunt, though witnesses told the BBC that security personnel attempted to stop civilians getting involved.One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "The attackers mixed in with the local population, so finding them was not easy. Civilians picked up machetes and sticks to defend themselves and to strike anyone they did not recognise who came their way."The airport vicinity remained locked down on Thursday afternoon, with security forces searching vehicles entering and leaving the area.Diori Hamani International Airport is one of Niger's most sensitive security installations, serving as both a civilian aviation hub and a military base.It also hosts facilities linked to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which comprises Niger and its neighbours, Mali and Burkina Faso.All three countries are run by juntas which came to power in part because of a failure to deal with years of jihadist violence in the region.In January's attack on the airport, four military personnel were injured and 20 attackers were killed, Niger's defence ministry said.At the time, the head of Niger's military government, which has been in power for three years, thanked Russia for its help in foiling the attack. Abdourahamane Tiani also accused the presidents of France, Benin and Ivory Coast of backing those responsible.He did not give details of what help Russia had provided or provide any evidence to support his accusations against the other countries.In recent weeks, authorities in Niger have demolished neighbourhoods near the airport, citing "terrorist risks".They have also extended the airport's perimeter fence and installed more than 350 surveillance cameras, AFP reports.Source: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdx7krkdqeno">BBC</a>

35 killed as gunmen attack Niger's biggest airport

A 26-year-old Ghanaian lawyer has reportedly died after suffering a cardiac arrest while celebrating Ghana’s victory over Panama in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.The deceased, identified as Sara Araba Tettey, was a private legal practitioner and a recent graduate of the Faculty of Law at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). She had only recently been called to the Ghana Bar and was working with O &amp; A Legal Consult, where she was regarded as a promising young lawyer with a bright future.According to reports by MyJoyOnline, Ms Tettey collapsed shortly after celebrations erupted following the Black Stars’ 1-0 victory over Panama. She was reportedly watching the match with friends at Standard Hostel in Bomso, near the KNUST campus in Kumasi, when she suddenly became unresponsive during the post-match celebrations.Eyewitness accounts indicate that friends and bystanders immediately rushed her to the hospital in an attempt to save her life. Medical personnel reportedly administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for approximately 45 minutes, but she was later pronounced dead.Her sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the legal community, particularly among colleagues from KNUST; the Ghana School of Law; and members of the Bar who had recently celebrated her admission into the legal profession.Her body has since been deposited at the hospital mortuary, pending autopsy and funeral arrangements.The tragic incident has cast a shadow over what was otherwise a moment of national celebration, as Ghanaians rejoiced over the Black Stars’ strong start to their World Cup campaign.

Young Ghanaian lawyer dies after collapsing while celebrating Black Stars’ World Cup victory

The Ghana Police Service has issued a stern warning to final-year senior high school students across the country as they prepare to complete the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), cautioning them against engaging in violence, vandalism, or any form of unlawful conduct.The advisory comes ahead of the conclusion of the examinations on Friday, June 19, 2026, and follows recent incidents of student unrest in the Upper East Region that resulted in multiple arrests.According to the Police Service, two students from Zebilla Senior High Technical School were arrested for allegedly setting fire to a teacher's apartment, while four students from Bawku Senior High School were apprehended for their alleged involvement in rioting, assaulting school authorities, and damaging school and private property.In a statement issued on Thursday, June 18, the police urged students to celebrate responsibly after their examinations and to remain law-abiding at all times.The Service emphasised that criminal acts such as assault, vandalism, arson, rioting, and the destruction of property carry serious legal consequences and could have a lasting impact on the future prospects of those involved."The police will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute any student found engaging in such conduct," the statement warned.The police further called on students, parents, guardians, and school authorities to work together in promoting discipline, peace, and public order both within school environments and in surrounding communities.Authorities believe that responsible behaviour during and after the examination period will help ensure a safe and peaceful end to the academic year for all candidates across the country.

Ghana Police issue strong warning to WASSCE candidates ahead of final exams

Carlos Queiroz etched his name into FIFA World Cup history after leading Ghana's Black Stars to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming one of the few coaches to manage at five consecutive World Cup tournaments.The 73-year-old Portuguese tactician was on the touchline as Ghana secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their Group L opener at Toronto Stadium on June 17, 2026.The decisive moment came in stoppage time when Caleb Yirenkyi scored the only goal of the match, handing the Black Stars all three points and a dream start to their World Cup campaign.Queiroz's latest World Cup appearance places him alongside legendary Serbian coach Bora Milutinović, who managed at five consecutive World Cups between 1986 and 2002 with five different national teams. Only Brazilian manager Carlos Alberto Parreira has appeared at more World Cups, having coached in six editions, although not consecutively.Queiroz's remarkable World Cup journey began with Portugal at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. He then led Iran at three successive tournaments in 2014, 2018 and 2022 before taking charge of Ghana for the 2026 edition.The Ghana Football Association appointed Queiroz in April 2026 following the departure of Otto Addo after a string of disappointing friendly results.Before accepting the Ghana job, Queiroz had largely stayed away from the spotlight after his spell with Oman, leading many observers to believe his coaching career had reached its final chapter.However, the veteran manager remains one of football's most respected coaches. At club level, he previously managed Real Madrid and also served as assistant manager to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United during one of the club's most successful periods.Queiroz first gained worldwide recognition after guiding Portugal's Under-20 team to back-to-back FIFA U-20 World Cup titles in 1989 and 1991. Those triumphs helped develop a generation of stars that included Luís Figo, Paulo Sousa and João Pinto.Now, Queiroz has another opportunity to enhance his legacy with Ghana. The Black Stars are making their fifth FIFA World Cup appearance and have been drawn into a challenging Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.Following their victory over Panama, Ghana sit second in Group L and will now turn their attention to a much tougher test against England in their next World Cup fixture.

Carlos Queiroz makes World Cup history as Ghana beat Panama 

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has called for the establishment of an investigative committee to examine circumstances surrounding the recently organised Ghana Ministers of State Excellence Honours, following allegations that have cast a shadow over the credibility of the awards scheme.The call was made on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, June 11, by the Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Habib Iddrisu, who argued that a thorough and impartial investigation is necessary to establish the processes, standards, and criteria used in selecting recipients of the awards.The demand follows allegations by the Director-General of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), Professor Michael Kpessa-Whyte, who claimed that he was asked to pay GH¢50,000 in exchange for receiving an award under the scheme.The allegation sparked public debate and raised questions about the integrity of the awards programme, with calls from some quarters for greater transparency and accountability regarding how honourees are selected.Habib Iddrisu said the explanations offered so far were insufficient and that Parliament had a responsibility to ensure that the truth behind the controversy was established.“Listening to the issue and the response given by the Minister for Government Communication, Mr. Speaker, if you can kindly direct to set up a committee to investigate the matter.“A bipartisan committee should investigate this matter so that we know the criteria for the awards. We deserve the truth.”

Probe controversial Ministers of State Excellence awards - Minority urges parliament

Mexico opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over South Africa in a chaotic Group A clash on Thursday, as three red cards and an early own goal blunder set the tone for a dramatic night in Mexico City.Julian Quinones and veteran striker Raul Jimenez got on the scoresheet for the co-hosts, while South Africa were reduced to nine men through the dismissals of midfielder Yaya Sithole and substitute Themba Zwane – one of the most eventful opening matches in World Cup history.Early Goal, Early DramaThe game turned inside the opening ten minutes. A loose pass from South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams left Sithole exposed, and his heavy touch was immediately seized upon by Erik Lira. The layoff fell perfectly for Quinones, who composed himself and drove the ball through Williams' legs in the ninth minute – the earliest goal in a World Cup opener since 2006.Jimenez, making his first World Cup start despite appearing in the tournament for a fourth time, had already tested Williams with a shot just five minutes in, and continued to threaten as Mexico dominated proceedings. Quinones also came close with a low strike that clipped the post.South Africa created barely anything in response, registering just 0.06 expected goals in the opening 45 minutes.Sithole's Red Card Ends South Africa's HopesWhatever slim chance Bafana Bafana had of a comeback disappeared four minutes into the second half. Sithole, already on a knife's edge, caught Brian Gutierrez as the Mexican midfielder broke through on goal and was shown a straight red card—leaving South Africa with ten men and a mountain to climb.Mexico's momentum grew further when teenage substitute Gilberto Mora entered the pitch, becoming the youngest player to feature for a host nation at a World Cup at just 17 years and 240 days old, to a roaring reception from the home crowd.Jimenez Nets First World Cup GoalThe second goal, long overdue for Jimenez personally, finally came in the 67th minute. Roberto Alvarado delivered a teasing cross from the right, and the experienced striker met it with a precise header to put Mexico firmly in control – his first-ever goal at the FIFA World Cup.The night grew stranger still when VAR intervened to send off Zwane for violent conduct following a tussle with Alvarado — a decision that appeared harsh on the replays. Zwane became the second-oldest player to receive a red card in World Cup history.In stoppage time, Mexico's Cesar Montes was himself dismissed for a foul on Khuliso Mudau, but the three points were never in doubt.

3 red cards in the 2026 FIFA World Cup opener as South Africa fall to Mexico

The Upper East Region remains one of Ghana's least-endowed regions when it comes to sports infrastructure. Apart from a handful of AstroTurf pitches, many Division One and Division Two clubs continue to train and play on dusty, grassless fields popularly known as "sakora parks".Against this backdrop, hopes were high when government officials gathered in Navrongo on May 14, 2018, to cut the sod for the construction of a state-of-the-art Youth Resource Centre under the National Youth Authority's Youth Resource Centre initiative.The ceremony was attended by the then minister for youth and sports, Isaac Kwame Asiamah; the then Upper East regional minister, Rockson Ayine Bukari; the then chief executive officer of the National Youth Authority, Emmanuel Sin-nyet Asigri; project consultant Joe Hackman; and other dignitaries.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1781198943338-zfkq93y5bpb.jpeg" alt="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" data-credit="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" title="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" width="auto" height="auto"></div>The facility, estimated to cost about GHC7 million, was expected to be completed within nine months. However, nearly nine years later, the project remains unfinished, turning what was once a symbol of hope into a monument of neglect.<h2>A DREAM THAT NEVER MATERIALISED</h2>According to project details announced during the sod-cutting ceremony, the facility was expected to include the following:- A FIFA-standard 5,000-capacity football stadium- An eight-lane athletics track- ICT and entrepreneurship centres- Career development facilities- Tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts- A modern restaurant- Washroom facilities- Maintenance units- Floodlights and other supporting infrastructureThe project formed part of a nationwide initiative aimed at providing modern youth development and sports facilities across Ghana's sixteen regions.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1781199194580-or0rs3zutu.jpeg" alt="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" data-credit="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" title="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" width="auto" height="auto"></div><h2>CURRENT STATE OF THE FACILITY</h2>A recent visit by Ibrahim Abode on an investigative mission to the project site paints a worrying picture.Instead of a thriving sports and youth development hub, the facility is now characterised by deteriorating structures, broken chairs, burnt sections of the building, and several incomplete components. The abandoned project continues to deteriorate under harsh weather conditions, raising concerns about the value for money invested in the project.Speaking to this reporter, a young man identified as Gideon, who currently oversees the site, revealed that construction stalled following a contractual dispute between the contractor and government.According to him, the matter is currently before the courts.A phone call to the chief executive officer of Amecben Enterprise, Benjamin Ngoswini, confirmed the situation."I cannot speak much on the matter because we are currently in court over the project," he stated.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1781199247376-s23767e67d.jpeg" alt="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" data-credit="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" title="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" width="auto" height="auto"></div><h2>PROMISES AND DELAYS</h2>The failure to complete the project has become a source of frustration for residents and sports enthusiasts in the Upper East Region.What was initially promised as a nine-month project has remained incomplete for almost nine years, denying the youth of Navrongo and surrounding communities access to modern sporting and developmental facilities.During a campaign tour of Navrongo ahead of the 2024 general elections, then Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate Dr Mahamudu Bawumia assured chiefs and residents that the project would be completed before the elections.However, with the elections now behind the country and the facility still abandoned, many residents are questioning when the long-awaited youth resource centre will finally become a reality.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1781199299247-hr904q6niie.jpeg" alt="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" data-credit="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" title="How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East" width="auto" height="auto"></div><h2>CALLS FOR ACTION</h2>Sports stakeholders, youth groups, and residents continue to urge the government and all relevant parties to resolve the legal and contractual issues surrounding the project.For many young people in the Upper East Region, the completion of the Navrongo Youth Resource Centre is not just about sports. It represents opportunities for talent development, skills training, employment creation, and community growth.Until decisive action is taken, the multi-million-cedi facility will remain a stark reminder of unfulfilled promises and a missed opportunity for youth development in northern Ghana.By Ibrahim Abode

How GHC7 million sports project became a monument to broken promises in Upper East

Every day in Ghana, drivers with undetected cataracts, glaucoma, and failing eyesight share the road with everyone else, and most of them do not even know it.The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has confirmed that 4,896 applicants were turned away from obtaining or renewing their licences in 2024 after being found medically unfit to drive due to eye conditions, including refractive errors, glaucoma, and cataracts. Many of those affected had no idea anything was wrong until they sat down for the test.<h2>The Scale of the Screening</h2>A total of 251,117 commercial and private drivers underwent compulsory eye screening at accredited centres across the country. Of that number, 218,471 – approximately 87 per cent – passed without issue.However, 32,645 drivers initially failed the screening. Of those, 24,483 were later cleared after receiving treatment or corrective measures such as prescribed lenses. The remaining 4,896 could not meet the required medical standards and were ultimately denied licences.The DVLA says the strict enforcement of eye testing falls under Regulation 29 of L.I. 2180 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683) — part of wider efforts to reduce preventable road crashes linked to impaired vision.<h2>Hidden Conditions Discovered Behind the Wheel</h2>Speaking exclusively to The Ghanaian Times, DVLA Director for Driver Training, Testing and Licensing Kafui Semevo revealed that the screening exercise had uncovered far more than expected—exposing hidden health conditions among drivers that had gone undetected for years."Some drivers only discovered their conditions during the tests," Semevo said, noting that cases of cataracts and vision problems linked to hypertension were among the conditions identified through the process.Drivers whose vision impairments could not be corrected had their licences revoked in line with the law. Those with treatable conditions had their licences suspended until they were medically cleared — a firm but fair approach that puts public safety first.<h2>The Single Vision Question</h2>The DVLA has also identified cases of drivers with monocular vision — a condition where sight is limited to one eye — following a survey conducted by the Optometry Department of the University of Cape Coast. Around 10 such cases were recorded at the Greater Accra Regional Office during the early stages of the reform.Semevo disclosed that policy discussions are now underway that could allow drivers with single vision to operate private vehicles only while being barred from commercial driving under proposed regulatory changes. A formal decision on that policy is yet to be announced.<h2>A Warning From the Police</h2>Chief Superintendent of Police Dr Remi Ninkpe, who coordinates the DVLA-Ghana Optometric Association Eye Care Reforms Project and heads the Eye Unit of the Ghana Police Service, used the development to issue a direct warning to drivers across the country.He cautioned against self-medication and the use of unprescribed eye drops or glasses – practices he described as dangerous – and urged all drivers to make regular eye checks a core part of responsible driving habits.<h2>The Bigger Picture</h2>Poor eyesight remains one of the most underestimated factors in road accidents in Ghana — a silent hazard that often goes undetected until a routine medical check forces it into the open. The DVLA is currently working alongside the University of Cape Coast and the Ghana Optometric Association to assess the full impact of the reforms and strengthen enforcement going forward.With nearly 5,000 unsafe drivers removed from Ghana's roads in a single year, the data makes a compelling case: mandatory eye testing is not bureaucracy. It is a matter of life and death on Ghanaian roads.GH News Media will continue to follow developments on road safety in Ghana.

DVLA bars 4,896 drivers over failed eye tests in 2024

The United States has just dismantled a birth tourism network in West Africa involving more than 100 foreign nationals. But what exactly is birth tourism, how does it work, and why is the US treating it as a serious crime? Here is everything you need to know.<h2>What Is Birth Tourism?</h2>Birth tourism is the practice of travelling to another country specifically to give birth there — with the primary goal of securing citizenship for the child under that country's laws.In the United States, the practice is driven by one of the most powerful legal provisions in the American Constitution: birthright citizenship. Under the 14th Amendment, any child born on US soil is automatically entitled to full American citizenship, regardless of the nationality or immigration status of the parents.That single legal principle has made the United States one of the most targeted destinations for birth tourism in the world.<h2>How Does It Work?</h2>In most cases, birth tourism operates through an organised network of facilitators — commonly known as visa fixers — who help foreign nationals obtain US visitor visas under false pretences.The process typically works like this: a pregnant woman applies for a US visitor visa, either concealing her pregnancy or misrepresenting the purpose of her trip. A fixer assists with the paperwork, arranges accommodation in the United States, and coordinates medical appointments with hospitals or birth centres that cater to international clients. The woman travels to the US, gives birth on American soil, and returns home with a child who holds a US passport.That US passport carries enormous value — granting the child the right to live, work, and study in the United States, access American public services, and eventually sponsor family members for US residency.<h2>Is It Illegal?</h2>Birth tourism itself is not a crime under US law. However, obtaining a US visitor visa for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States is a direct violation of visa regulations — and that is where the legal line is crossed.A US visitor visa is issued for tourism, business, or medical treatment. If an applicant misrepresents the true purpose of their visit — concealing a pregnancy or lying about their intentions — they are committing visa fraud, which is a federal offence carrying serious consequences, including permanent visa revocation and a lifetime ban from the United States.The State Department has been unequivocal: "No foreigner is permitted to obtain a visitor visa for the primary purpose of acquiring US citizenship for a child by giving birth in the US."<h2>How Big Is the Problem?</h2>Larger than most people realise. The United States has identified birth tourism networks operating across multiple continents.In West Africa, a US embassy recently dismantled a network of more than 100 foreign nationals using fraudulent documents and visa fixers to exploit the system. In North Africa, more than 100 visas were revoked after parents were found to have travelled to the US primarily to give birth. In Europe, authorities uncovered more than 400 suspected birth tourism cases since 2024, linked to at least six companies that coached visa applicants, arranged accommodation, and coordinated the entire birth tourism process from start to finish.The individuals behind those European networks have been permanently barred from travelling to the United States.<h2>Why Is the US Cracking Down Now?</h2>The current crackdown sits within a broader tightening of US immigration policy under the Trump administration, which has taken a significantly harder line on visa fraud, birthright citizenship, and what it describes as abuse of the American immigration system.The State Department has made its position plain: a US visa is a privilege, not a right. The State Department is taking action around the world to stop this abuse, dismantle birth tourism networks, and hold accountable those who try to scam our system."Authorities say they are now using data analytics, law enforcement partnerships, and consular intelligence to identify birth tourism networks before they can operate — rather than simply reacting after the fact.<h2>What Are the Consequences of Getting Caught?</h2>The consequences are severe and permanent. Anyone found to have obtained a US visa through misrepresentation faces immediate visa revocation, a permanent ban from ever obtaining a US visa again, potential criminal prosecution for visa fraud, and referral to local authorities in their home country.For the fixers and facilitators who run these networks, the penalties are even heavier — including criminal charges, asset seizure, and international cooperation with law enforcement agencies.<h2>The Bottom Line</h2>Birth tourism is a practice built on a legal loophole and sustained by deliberate deception. While the child born through the process acquires genuine US citizenship, the method used to get there — visa fraud, forged documents, and organised criminal networks — carries consequences that can follow the parents for the rest of their lives.The United States has made clear it intends to pursue these networks wherever they operate. For anyone considering the practice, the message from Washington could not be more direct: the risk is not worth it.GH News Media will continue to follow developments on US immigration policy and its impact on West Africa.

What is birth tourism and why is the US cracking down on it?

The United States Department of State has confirmed that a US embassy in West Africa has dismantled a birth tourism network involving more than 100 foreign nationals who allegedly used fraudulent documents and visa facilitators to secure American citizenship for their children.The State Department disclosed the operation in a statement issued on Wednesday, June 10, describing it as part of a sweeping global crackdown on visa fraud and the abuse of America's birthright citizenship laws.<h2>How the Network Operated</h2>According to the State Department, the scheme was sophisticated and deliberate. Individuals allegedly worked with so-called visa "fixers" — middlemen who assisted applicants in obtaining US visitor visas under false pretences, with the specific goal of travelling to the United States to give birth on American soil.Under the United States Constitution, any child born on American soil is automatically entitled to US citizenship — a provision that authorities say has increasingly been exploited by organised birth tourism networks operating across multiple continents."A US embassy in West Africa uncovered a sophisticated birth tourism network of more than 100 foreign nationals using fraudulent documents and visa fixers to get themselves visas in order to get US citizenship for their children. We shut it down, revoked these foreign nationals' visas, and are coordinating with local authorities to systematically identify and cut off any similar operations," the State Department said.The department did not identify the specific West African country or countries involved but confirmed it is actively working with local authorities to prevent similar networks from re-emerging in the region.<h2>A Global Crackdown</h2>The West Africa operation is one of several cases the State Department says have been uncovered worldwide. In Europe, officials identified more than 400 suspected birth tourism cases since 2024, linked to at least six companies accused of coaching visa applicants, arranging accommodation, and coordinating childbirth-related travel plans to the United States. Visas connected to those cases were revoked, and several individuals involved in facilitating the schemes were permanently barred from entering the country.Separately, a US embassy in North Africa revoked more than 100 visas issued to parents who had travelled to the United States primarily to give birth — another indication of how widespread the practice has become across the African continent."Consular officers — working with law enforcement and using data analytics — identified several networks abusing the system and put a stop to it," the statement said.<h2>The Law Is Clear</h2>The State Department was unequivocal in its position on birth tourism, reiterating that obtaining a visitor visa for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States is a direct violation of visa regulations."No foreigner is permitted to obtain a visitor visa for the primary purpose of acquiring US citizenship for a child by giving birth in the US," the department stated.Authorities made clear that the crackdown will continue beyond West Africa, with the State Department describing a US visa as a privilege rather than an entitlement."A US visa is a privilege, not a right. The State Department is taking action around the world to stop this abuse, dismantle birth tourism networks, and hold accountable those who try to scam our system," it added.<h2>What It Means for West Africa</h2>While the State Department stopped short of naming the country involved, the disclosure will inevitably raise questions across West Africa — a region where the United States has seen a notable rise in visa applications in recent years.The confirmation that a dedicated network of more than 100 individuals was operating under the watch of a US embassy in the region and that local authorities are now being engaged to prevent further cases signals that Washington is prepared to take a harder line on immigration abuse in Africa than it has in the past.For genuine visa applicants across the region, the message from the State Department is straightforward: any attempt to misuse the US visitor visa system will result in permanent consequences.<div class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm border border-gray-200 my-4"><div class="relative w-full" style="padding-bottom: 50%;"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.facebook.com%2Fstatedept%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02zZ2NPRpX2uYYj3kdyew3iBbzZrgHSviGNXYrXEQt6pcA4ySvCZQFMMMA5QMP6ZxQl&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="250" title="Embedded content" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" class="absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full rounded-lg border border-gray-200 shadow-sm"></iframe></div><div class="mt-2 text-xs text-gray-500 text-center">Embedded content from: www.facebook.com</div></div>GH News Media will continue to follow developments on this story.

US shuts down West Africa birth tourism network involving over 100 foreign nationals

A former Air Canada pilot is facing criminal charges after allegedly captaining more than 900 domestic and international flights over nearly 17 years — without ever holding the proper licence required to do so.Canadian police announced on Tuesday that Geoffrey Wall was arrested on June 1 following a complex fraud investigation that uncovered one of the most audacious deceptions in aviation history.<h2>What He Did and How Long He Got Away With It</h2>Wall worked as a pilot at Air Canada for 27 years and held a commercial pilot licence throughout his career. However, investigators say that when he was promoted to captain in 2009, he never obtained the Airline Transport Pilot Licence for Aeroplanes — known as an ATPL-A — which is a mandatory requirement for anyone flying as pilot in command.Despite not holding the correct licence, Wall went on to captain over 900 flights between 2009 and 2025, piloting Boeing 767, 777, and 787 aircraft and carrying tens of thousands of passengers. During that period, he earned close to $3 million Canadian dollars – equivalent to more than $2 million US dollars.Peel Regional Police Deputy Chief Milinovich did not mince his words when describing the scale of what had allegedly taken place."This investigation and the details surrounding it read like a movie script," he said at a news conference in Ontario. "(Wall) rose to the position of pilot in command, where for almost 17 years they flew Boeing 767s, 777s, and 787s."To put the deception in context, Milinovich drew a sharp analogy: "This is very similar to a doctor that is licensed to practise family medicine but is doing brain surgery in their office. There are additional requirements and regulations to professional designations that exist for a reason."<h2>How He Was Caught</h2>Wall's deception unravelled in 2025 when a routine examination of his credentials revealed anomalies within his pilot licence documentation. Air Canada notified regulators, triggering both a regulatory and a criminal investigation — codenamed 'Project Icarus' — which was formally launched in January 2026.Wall had already retired from Air Canada in 2025, before the investigation got underway.<h2>Air Canada's Response</h2>Air Canada moved quickly to address public concern over passenger safety, insisting that its internal training processes had ensured flights remained safe throughout the period in question."Safety was not compromised by this incident because all pilots at Air Canada undergo mandatory recurrent training every six months to validate their flying competency, including a flight check with a certified Transport Canada check-pilot every 12 months," the airline said in a statement.However, the carrier was equally clear that the breach itself was unacceptable. "Appropriate licensing is an essential layer of the airline industry's multi-layered approach to safety, so Air Canada takes this matter with utmost seriousness," the statement added, as quoted by CNN.Police say Wall misrepresented his qualifications to both his employer and the aviation regulator throughout his time as captain.<h2>The Charges</h2>Wall now faces seven criminal charges, including fraud over $5,000, two counts of uttering forged documents, and three counts of possession of a counterfeit mark. He has also been fined by Transport Canada. He is due to appear in court on June 29, 2026.The case has drawn widespread comparisons to the 2002 film Catch Me If You Can, in which a teenager successfully impersonates an airline pilot – a story that was itself based on real events. In Wall's case, the alleged deception lasted far longer, involved real passengers on real intercontinental flights, and ended not with a Hollywood ending but with a court date.GHNewsMedia will continue to follow developments in this case.

Pilot arrested for flying over 900 flights for 17 years with fake licence

South African police have launched a manhunt after 12 people were killed and nine others injured in a mass shooting at an informal settlement in Johannesburg.According to police, at least 10 heavily armed suspects stormed the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, east of Johannesburg, late on Tuesday night and opened fire on residents before fleeing the scene in a white vehicle.Authorities described the attack as "heartless" and "barbaric" and have launched an intensive investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible.Police said officers responded to reports of an active shooting at approximately 11:10 p.m. local time. Upon arrival, they discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.Eight men and three women were pronounced dead at the scene, while another man later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. Nine additional victims were transported to various medical facilities for treatment.The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and investigators are exploring several possible leads.Members of the local community believe the shooting may be linked to ongoing turf wars involving illegal mining groups operating in the area. Illegal mining has become increasingly prevalent across South Africa, particularly around abandoned gold mines, where criminal networks extract minerals and sell them on the black market.The illegal mining trade has often been associated with violent clashes between rival groups competing for control of lucrative mining sites. Earlier this year, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa deployed military personnel to assist authorities in cracking down on illegal mining operations in affected communities.South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of violent crime, and shootings in informal settlements are not uncommon. Such incidents are frequently linked to gang activity, organised crime, and personal disputes.The latest tragedy comes less than a year after nine people were killed in a mass shooting at a tavern in Johannesburg, underscoring ongoing concerns over gun violence in the country.According to figures cited by South African Gunowners' Association spokesperson Gideon Joubert, South Africa has approximately three million legally owned firearms, with an estimated similar number of unlicensed weapons in circulation.Police have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward as efforts continue to track down the suspects.

12 killed, 9 injured in mass shooting in Johannesburg, South Africa

The presidency has submitted to Parliament its annual report on the staffing position at the Office of the President, revealing that a total of 808 personnel worked at the presidency as of December 31, 2025.The report, presented in accordance with Section 11 of the Presidential Office Act, 1993 (Act 463), indicates that the workforce comprises 233 political appointees and 585 civil servants and other public officers assigned to the Presidency.The report covers the period from January 1 to December 31, 2025, and provides details on the number of presidential staff employed during the year, their respective ranks and grades, as well as employees from other public services assigned to the Office of the President.The submission forms part of the statutory requirement for the Presidency to account annually to Parliament on its staffing composition.The full report, which contains the names, positions and grades of staff at the Presidency, has been laid before Parliament.The document shows that the total staff strength at the Presidency stands at 808 employees.This figure comprises 233 political appointees and 575 civil and public service workers.Here is the complete breakdown of the staffing positioning at the Office of the President as of December 31st, 2025.1. Political Appointees (Total: 233)The political administration of the presidency comprises three primary brackets, totalling 233 officials:Ministers of State at the Presidency: 4<ol><li>Felix Kwakye Ofosu (Government Communications)</li><li>Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum (Special Initiatives)</li><li>Seidu Issifu (Climate Change and Sustainability)</li><li>Lydia Lamisa Akanvariba (Public Sector Reform)</li></ol>Political Staffers: 39 (Including top-tier leadership such as Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, Executive Secretary Dr Calistus Mahama, and various presidential advisors and aides).Other Political Appointees: 190 (Comprising technical coordinators, legal advisors across various ministries, regional political coordinators, executive assistants, and political drivers).Civil Service Staff (Total: 390)A total of 390 personnel form the core civil service staff framework operating within the presidency, segmented across multiple specialised classes and secretariats:Core Civil Service Classes<ul><li>Acting Chief Director: 1</li><li>Administrative Class: 37</li><li>Executive Class: 12</li><li>Records Class: 10</li><li>Secretarial Class: 24</li><li>Budget Analysts Class: 4</li><li>Internal Audit Class: 9</li><li>Procurement &amp; Supply Chain Management Class: 20</li><li>Programme Class: 7</li><li>Planning Class: 2</li><li>Research Class: 4</li><li>Information Technology Class: 8 Sub-total: 138 Presidential Household Staff Total Household Personnel: 234</li><li>Protocol Unit: 4</li><li>Library Unit: 1</li><li>Dispatch Rider and Messengers: 2</li><li>Hospitality Management (30 Caterers, 23 Stewards): 53</li><li>Mechanics Workshop (State House): 16</li><li>Artisans (Estate Division – Architects, Engineers, Plumbers, etc.): 36</li><li>Transport Section (5 Managers, 38 Drivers): 43</li><li>Seamstresses (Castle-based): 3</li><li>Caretakers: 2</li><li>Washermen: 3</li><li>Watchmen: 6</li><li>Gardeners: 6</li><li>Sanitary Labourers: 13</li><li>Cleaners: 46</li><li>Specialised Secretariats</li><li>Zongo and Inner-City Development Secretariat: 7</li><li>Public Enterprises Secretariat: 11</li></ul>Other Public Service Staff on Attachment (Total: 185)To ensure smooth inter-agency operations, 185 professionals from various state institutions are attached directly to the Office of the President:<ul><li>Department of Parks and Gardens: 51 (Distributed across presidential residences, the castle, and state lodges).</li><li>Ghana Health Service: 48 (Medical professionals stationed at the Jubilee House Medical Centre, which serves staff and the general public).</li><li>Controller and Accountant-General’s Department: 14 (Assigned to the Accounts Division).</li><li>Ghana Audit Service: 15 (Based at the Castle, serving the government machinery sector).</li><li>Public Works Department (Prestige Division): 53 (responsible for maintaining prestige structures under the presidency).</li><li>Ghana Postal Company: 4 (Personnel managing postal services at the Castle).</li></ul>

Ghana presidency has 808 staff on payroll - Full breakdown

Brazil may hold the record for the most goals scored in FIFA World Cup history, but Germany are closing in fast. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup expanding to 48 teams and 104 matches, several long-standing records could soon be rewritten.For nearly a century, the FIFA World Cup has showcased football's greatest talents, iconic moments, and unforgettable goals. While lifting the trophy remains the ultimate objective, scoring goals has always been the heartbeat of the tournament.From Pelé's dazzling Brazil sides to Germany's relentless efficiency and Argentina's star-studded attacks, a select group of nations have dominated the World Cup scoring charts throughout history.As the 2026 FIFA World Cup unfolds across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, here's a look at the countries that have scored the most goals in tournament history.<h2>Countries with the Most Goals in FIFA World Cup History</h2>Rank Country Goals Scored 1 Brazil 237 2 Germany 232 3 Argentina 152 4 France: 136.5 Italy 128 6 Spain 108 7 England 104 8 Netherlands 96 9 Uruguay 89 10 Hungary 87<h2>1. Brazil – 237 Goals</h2>Brazil remains the highest-scoring nation in FIFA World Cup history with an incredible 237 goals. The South American giants have built their legacy on attacking football, producing legendary forwards across generations, including Pelé, Romário, Ronaldo Nazário, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Neymar, and Vinícius Júnior.The Seleção have won a record five World Cup titles and continue to set the benchmark for entertaining, attacking football on the global stage.<h2>2. Germany – 232 Goals</h2>Just five goals behind Brazil, Germany sit second with 232 World Cup goals. Known for their consistency and efficiency, the Germans have remained competitive across multiple eras and have won four World Cup titles.Germany's remarkable scoring record includes memorable performances such as their historic 7-1 victory over Brazil in the 2014 semi-finals. With the expanded 2026 tournament offering more matches, they could soon overtake Brazil at the summit.<h2>3. Argentina – 152 Goals</h2>Argentina occupies third place with 152 goals. Their tally has been boosted by several successful World Cup campaigns, including their triumph at Qatar 2022.The nation has produced some of football's greatest players, from Diego Maradona to Lionel Messi, and remains one of the most feared attacking teams in world football.<h2>4. France – 136 Goals</h2>France has consistently been among the world's most dangerous attacking sides. Les Bleus have scored 136 goals in World Cup history, thanks to stars such as Just Fontaine, Michel Platini, Thierry Henry, Zinedine Zidane, and Kylian Mbappé.Fontaine's record of 13 goals in a single World Cup tournament, achieved in 1958, remains unmatched to this day.<h2>5. Italy – 128 Goals</h2>Despite their reputation for defensive excellence, Italy have scored 128 World Cup goals. The four-time world champions have produced several prolific forwards throughout their history and remain one of the tournament's most successful nations.Their ability to combine tactical discipline with clinical finishing has made them a force on football's biggest stage.<h2>6. Spain – 108 Goals</h2>Spain's rise among football's elite is reflected in their 108 World Cup goals. The 2010 world champions revolutionised modern football with their possession-based style and enjoyed a golden era led by players such as Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, and David Villa.Their influence on the modern game continues to be felt worldwide.<h2>7. England – 104 Goals</h2>England became the seventh nation to surpass the 100-goal mark at the World Cup. The Three Lions have scored 104 goals in tournament history, highlighted by their 1966 triumph on home soil.Recent generations featuring Harry Kane and other Premier League stars have helped maintain England's place among the competition's most prolific teams.<h2>8. Netherlands – 96 Goals</h2>Although the Netherlands have never won the World Cup, they remain one of the most influential football nations ever. Their 96 goals reflect decades of attacking football inspired by the famous "Total Football" philosophy.The Dutch have reached three World Cup finals and consistently produced world-class attacking talent.<h2>9. Uruguay – 89 Goals</h2>Uruguay made history by winning the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930 and have scored 89 goals across their tournament appearances.Despite their relatively small population, La Celeste have consistently punched above their weight and remain one of the most respected nations in international football.<h2>10. Hungary – 87 Goals</h2>Hungary round out the top 10 with 87 World Cup goals. During the 1950s, the legendary "Mighty Magyars" were one of the most feared teams in football history.Led by Ferenc Puskás and Sándor Kocsis, Hungary's attacking prowess helped them achieve one of the highest goals-per-game averages ever recorded at the World Cup.<h2>How the 2026 FIFA World Cup Could Change the Rankings</h2>The expansion of the FIFA World Cup from 32 to 48 teams has increased the number of matches from 64 to 104, creating more opportunities for teams to score goals and climb the all-time rankings.Brazil and Germany, separated by only five goals, are likely to continue their battle for top spot throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, Argentina, France, and England also have opportunities to significantly improve their totals.With more games, more teams, and more attacking talent than ever before, the 2026 FIFA World Cup could usher in a new era for football's most prestigious scoring records.As history continues to be written, the race to become the highest-scoring nation in World Cup history remains one of the tournament's most fascinating storylines.

Which country has scored the most goals in FIFA World Cup history? Full Rankings

Comoros has announced itself on the African women's football stage in the most emphatic fashion imaginable — demolishing Sudan 30-0 on aggregate to book a second-round date with Nigeria's Super Falcons in the qualifiers for the 2028 Olympic Games.It is the kind of scoreline that makes you do a double take. But it is very real — and it sets up one of the most fascinating mismatches of the entire qualifying campaign.<h2>The Route to the Super Falcons</h2>The Coelacanths — as the Comoros are nicknamed — got the job done across two dominant performances. They won the first leg 17-0 on June 3, with nine different players finding the net in a display of breathtaking attacking depth. Five days later, they returned to finish the tie with a 13-0 victory in the second leg, scoring three times before the break and adding ten more after it.Thirty goals. Zero conceded. Job done.<h2>A Giant Awaits</h2>The reward for that extraordinary run of form is a second-round tie against the Super Falcons of Nigeria – the most decorated women's national team in African football history and an eleven-time Africa Cup of Nations champion.It is, to put it mildly, a significant step up in class.Nigeria head into the fixture in strong form themselves. Justine Madugu's side defeated Senegal 3-0 in a friendly at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Monday night, following a 2-1 win in the first meeting between the two sides last week. The Super Falcons are widely expected to enter the tie as heavy favourites.<h2>What Is at Stake</h2>The second-round qualifiers are scheduled to take place between October 5 and 13, 2026. Two African nations will ultimately earn spots at the women's football event of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles — making every tie from this point forward a high-stakes affair.For Comoros, simply reaching this stage is a statement. Beating Sudan by 30 goals without reply suggests this is a team with genuine ambition — even if the Super Falcons represent a completely different kind of test.Whether the Coelacanths can pull off one of African women's football's great upsets remains to be seen. But after what they did to Sudan, nobody will be taking them entirely for granted.

Comoros women beat Sudan 30-0 to set up Super Falcons of Nigeria clash

England’s 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations have been unexpectedly disrupted after an earthquake struck near their training base in West Palm Beach, Florida, just a day before their final warm-up match against Costa Rica.The seismic event, measuring 6.1 in magnitude, is reported to be the strongest in the region in around 150 years. It originated off the west coast of Cuba but was felt across parts of Florida, including Flagler County, Orlando, and Miami.<h3>Buildings Evacuated as Tremors Hit Florida Cities</h3>Several buildings across affected areas were evacuated after residents reported shaking caused by the earthquake. The sudden tremors prompted concern among locals, although authorities quickly moved to reassure the public.The National Weather Service confirmed that there is no tsunami risk to the United States following the quake. An official update stated there is no tsunami danger.A spokesperson from the US Geological Survey told Fox 35 that authorities are continuing to receive reports from people who felt the earthquake and warned that aftershocks are likely following a seismic event of this magnitude.<h3>England Camp Continues World Cup Preparations</h3>England have been based in Florida since arriving in the United States last week as part of their build-up to the tournament, with training sessions and friendly matches scheduled across the Sunshine State.Thomas Tuchel’s side recently secured a 1-0 victory over New Zealand in Tampa, with Harry Kane scoring the only goal of the match. The team is now preparing to face Costa Rica in Orlando in their final warm-up fixture.After the friendly, England will relocate to their main World Cup base in Kansas City, Missouri, as preparations intensify ahead of the tournament.<h3>World Cup Fixtures Ahead for the Three Lions</h3>England will begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Arlington, near Dallas, on June 17. They will then face Ghana in Boston on June 23 before concluding their group-stage matches against Panama in New Jersey on June 27.Depending on their progress, England could face additional travel across North America, with potential knockout fixtures including matches as far as Mexico City.Despite the unexpected natural disruption in Florida, England’s camp is expected to continue its preparations as planned ahead of the global tournament.

England World Cup camp hit by earthquake in Florida ahead of Costa Rica friendly

The Ashanti Regional Police Command has disclosed new details surrounding the arrest of a teacher at Nyinahin Catholic Senior High School following a viral video that allegedly showed him assaulting a female student.The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Eric Buernortey Apaflo, was arrested on June 8, 2026, by a patrol team from the Nyinahin District Police Command after reports emerged of an alleged assault on an 18-year-old student, Patience Chibu.<h3>Police Reveal What Triggered the Incident</h3>According to preliminary police investigations, the teacher, who also serves as a caretaker of one of the school's hostels, confronted the female student and several male students over alleged misconduct within the hostel premises.Police say the confrontation escalated into a misunderstanding between the parties, resulting in the alleged assault that has since attracted widespread public attention after a video of the incident circulated on social media.<h3>Students React After Incident</h3>The police further revealed that the incident sparked outrage among some students, who reportedly pelted the teacher with stones following the confrontation.Authorities also indicated that some students allegedly invited youth from the Nyinahin community to the school with the intention of attacking the suspect at the hostel.However, the situation was swiftly brought under control following the intervention of a police patrol team, preventing further escalation.<h3>Victim Undergoes Medical Examination</h3>The Ashanti Regional Police Command stated that a police medical report form has been issued to the victim to facilitate medical examination and treatment.Meanwhile, the suspect remains in police custody and is assisting investigators as enquiries into the matter continue.<h3>Police Call for Calm</h3>The police have appealed to the public, students, and members of the community to remain calm and allow due process to take its course.The command also encouraged citizens to resolve grievances and disputes through lawful and peaceful means rather than resorting to violence.The incident has generated significant public discussion, with many calling for a thorough investigation and appropriate action based on the findings of the ongoing police probe.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1781016425490-agxqh7bvvz9.webp" alt="What triggered viral Nyinahin SHS teacher assault on female student revealed" data-credit="What triggered viral Nyinahin SHS teacher assault on female student revealed" title="What triggered viral Nyinahin SHS teacher assault on female student revealed" width="auto" height="auto"></div>

What triggered viral Nyinahin SHS teacher assault on female student revealed

A 27-year-old man has been sentenced to four years in prison after stealing musical instruments from a church in Hohoe in the Volta Region, the Volta North Regional Police Command has announced.Mohammed Rafiu was convicted at the Hohoe Circuit Court on Monday, June 8, 2026, after pleading guilty to two counts of unlawful entry and stealing.<h2>How He Was Caught</h2>The incident dates to June 5, when Rafiu was spotted near the Faith International Ministry Church carrying a sack filled with items while attempting to board a vehicle. Witnesses grew suspicious and moved in to inspect the contents of the bag.Inside the sack, they found several items belonging to the church — including an amplifier, an equaliser, a mixer, and a crossover machine. Rafiu was promptly arrested and handed over to the Hohoe Police District, where he admitted to the offences during investigations.<h2>The Sentence</h2>Rafiu appeared before the Hohoe Circuit Court three days after his arrest. He pleaded guilty to both charges and was convicted on the same day.The court handed down three years for unlawful entry and four years for stealing. Both sentences are to run concurrently, meaning Rafiu will serve a maximum of four years behind bars.The Volta North Regional Police Command confirmed the conviction in a press release issued on June 9, 2026.

Man jailed 4 years for stealing musical equipment from Church

South Africa is moving to bill foreign governments for the cost of deporting their nationals who violate the country's immigration laws — a significant policy shift aimed at reducing the financial strain on the South African state.The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) announced the proposal as protests targeting undocumented foreign nationals continue across the country, with several nations having already evacuated their citizens in response to the unrest.<h2>The Financial Cost of Deportations</h2>South Africa has deported more than 100,000 undocumented migrants over the past two years, an exercise that has cost the state millions of rand. The government now says countries of origin must begin sharing that financial burden.DIRCO spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said recent voluntary repatriations by foreign governments have demonstrated that countries have the capacity to take responsibility for their own citizens — and that South Africa intends to formalise that expectation going forward."Moving forward, we will also be billing countries for their foreign nationals who have to be deported or who are in our criminal detention facilities and have to be deported back into their countries. At least now we can see that there's capacity for countries to extract the foreign nationals who have fallen foul of the law. That's something that through the department of home affairs we will pursue as a government," Phiri said.<h2>A New Approach to Migration Management</h2>The government says the policy is designed not only to recover costs but also to encourage stronger cooperation from countries of origin in managing undocumented migration into South Africa.The announcement comes at a sensitive moment, with anti-immigration protests intensifying in parts of the country and diplomatic tensions rising as foreign embassies move to protect their citizens on South African soil.South Africa's move mirrors approaches taken by several European nations in recent years, signalling a harder line on immigration enforcement and a push to make the process of deportation a shared international responsibility rather than a cost borne solely by the host country.

South Africa to charge foreign governments for deporting their nationals

Former Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) Chief Executive Officer Sedina Tamakloe Attionu has been extradited from the United States to Ghana to begin serving a 10-year prison sentence after being convicted on more than 70 corruption-related charges.The U.S. Embassy in Accra confirmed the extradition on June 9, describing it as a landmark moment in Ghana-U.S. law enforcement cooperation – and notably the first such transfer between the two countries since 2009, ending a 16-year gap.<h2>The Conviction</h2>Attionu, who served as MASLOC CEO under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, was found guilty by the Accra High Court in 2024 on multiple counts spanning stealing, conspiracy, financial loss to the state, and money laundering. The offences were committed between 2013 and 2016 and involved the embezzlement of over $6 million in Ghanaian taxpayer funds.The court sentenced her to 10 years' imprisonment with hard labour.Her convictions break down as follows:<ul><li>25 counts of stealing</li><li>9 counts of conspiracy to steal</li><li>20 counts of wilfully causing financial loss to the state</li><li>11 counts of conspiracy to cause financial loss to the state</li><li>3 counts of causing loss to public property</li><li>4 counts of money laundering</li></ul><h2>A Milestone in Ghana-US Cooperation</h2>The U.S. Embassy said the extradition underscores the strength of the bilateral law enforcement partnership between Ghana and the United States and signals that individuals convicted of corruption offences cannot simply evade justice by relocating abroad.Anti-corruption advocates have welcomed the development as a significant step toward entrenching accountability in Ghana's public service. Analysts say the case delivers a clear warning to public officials: conviction does not end at the border.<h2>What It Means</h2>Attionu's return is expected to reignite national debate on the recovery of stolen public funds and the effectiveness of Ghana's anti-corruption institutions. With the case now reaching its final chapter, pressure is likely to grow on authorities to pursue outstanding assets and ensure full restitution to the state.The Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu extradition stands as one of the most consequential corruption enforcement actions in Ghana's recent history – and a marker of how far international legal cooperation has come in holding public officials to account.

Former MASLOC CEO Sedina Tamakloe extradited from US to serve 10-year jail term in Ghana over $6M corruption

A collision between a fuel tanker and a tipper truck near the underbridge on the Accra-Tema Motorway has left one person dead and three others seriously injured after the crash triggered a massive fire.The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) deployed three fire tenders to the scene to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby vehicles and surrounding infrastructure. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control, though operations remain ongoing.One person perished in the inferno, burnt beyond recognition, while three others sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.Speaking on the incident, GNFS Public Relations Officer ADO Alex King Nartey confirmed the fire had been neutralised but warned that residual fuel in the tanker was complicating efforts to clear the scene."With the fuel tanker, it was well engulfed with fire, and we were able to neutralise the fire. Unfortunately, there is some petrol in the tanker. We are arranging for an empty tanker to offload the content of the tanker onto that one, and once it's done, we will be able to pull the tanker away from the road," ADO Nartey said.The cause of the collision has not yet been established. Emergency personnel remain on-site as authorities work to safely offload the remaining fuel before the tanker can be removed from the road.Motorists are advised to avoid the stretch of the Accra-Tema Motorway near the underbridge until the scene is fully cleared and to use alternative routes where possible.<div class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm border border-gray-200 my-4"><div class="relative w-full" style="padding-bottom: 56.0714%;"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2216405802494873%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=560&amp;t=0" width="560" height="314" title="Embedded content" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" class="absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full rounded-lg border border-gray-200 shadow-sm"></iframe></div><div class="mt-2 text-xs text-gray-500 text-center">Embedded content from: www.facebook.com</div></div>This is a developing story. GH News Media will provide updates as more information becomes available.

1 dead, 3 injured as fuel tanker fire engulfs vehicles on Accra-Tema motorway

FIFA has confirmed that Somali match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will not take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after he was denied entry into the United States — a development that has raised fresh concerns about the impact of Washington's travel restrictions on the tournament.The United States Department of Homeland Security confirmed on Monday that Artan was refused entry after arriving in South Florida on Saturday. The decision effectively ends his participation in the tournament before it properly begins.In a statement on Monday, a FIFA spokesperson said, as quoted by The Athletic:"FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States."FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan's status will not be changed at present."In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country."FIFA's statement makes clear that the governing body has no authority over the immigration decisions of host nations — effectively distancing itself from a situation that has drawn significant attention ahead of the tournament.Who Is Omar Artan?Omar Abdulkadir Artan is a seasoned football official who became a FIFA-accredited referee in 2018. He has served as an official in the Somali National Football League and has officiated at the Africa Cup of Nations – one of the continent's most prestigious international tournaments. His selection for the 2026 World Cup had represented a landmark moment for Somali football.Trump Travel Ban in the SpotlightSomalia is among the countries on President Donald Trump's travel ban list – a policy that critics argue is having tangible consequences beyond politics and into the world of sports. Trump has repeatedly made disparaging remarks about Somalia and its people. Artan's case now puts the intersection of US immigration policy and international football firmly in the spotlight, with questions growing about how Washington's restrictions could affect other officials, players and visitors connected to the tournament.The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico — making the US the primary entry point for the vast majority of participants and fans. Artan's case is unlikely to be the last time the host nation's immigration policies make headlines before the final whistle is blown.

Confirmed: Somali referee Omar Artan will not officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

More than 150 Malawian nationals are set to arrive home by road on Monday after being repatriated from South Africa, as a growing xenophobia crisis forces several African governments to evacuate their citizens from the country.The Malawian government confirmed the repatriation in a statement from Lilongwe, saying the group were among a number of foreign nationals who had sought refuge in temporary camps in Mossel Bay, a coastal town in South Africa's Western Cape Province. The move follows a wave of violence in the region, including door-to-door intimidation of foreign nationals and the deaths of two Mozambicans in Mossel Bay just over a week ago.Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe have all launched evacuation efforts of their own, with governments citing serious concerns about the safety of their citizens on South African soil.Ramaphosa Moves to Cool TensionsSouth African President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on Sunday, announcing a package of new measures to crack down on illegal migration — including speeding up the deportation of undocumented migrants. However, he also issued a firm warning to South Africans against vigilante action, saying there was "no space for xenophobia, racism, sexism, Afrophobia or any other forms of intolerance" in the country.Anti-migrant groups have been pressuring undocumented foreigners to leave, setting 30 June as a self-imposed deadline — a development that has alarmed governments across the continent and triggered the wave of organised evacuations now underway.Zimbabwe and Ghana Move FastA group of 74 Zimbabweans arrived home on Sunday after being transported from Mossel Bay in buses organised by the Zimbabwean government. Among them were families with young children who said they had fled the Western Cape fearing for their lives.Ghana moved even earlier. At the end of last month, Accra organised a repatriation flight from Johannesburg for nearly 300 Ghanaian nationals. A further group of approximately 680 Ghanaians arrived in Accra at the weekend, bringing the total number of returnees into the hundreds.Diplomatic Fallout Between Ghana and South AfricaThe crisis has sparked a sharp diplomatic exchange between Accra and Pretoria. On Saturday, South Africa's foreign minister Ronald Lamola publicly accused his Ghanaian counterpart of spreading misinformation about the situation, describing comments made by Ghana's foreign minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa in an interview with Joy News as "deeply disappointing".Ablakwa had told the Accra-based station that he was proud of the solidarity Ghanaians had shown toward their fellow nationals, raised concerns about reports of foreigners being killed in attacks, and called on the African Union to investigate the situation. He also said Ghana had formally requested that South Africa compensate repatriated Ghanaians for property left behind.Lamola pushed back on several of Ablakwa's claims. He disputed reports that two Nigerians and five Mozambicans had died in separate acts of violence and said his government had "no information of that nature whatsoever" regarding Ghanaians receiving hospital treatment following attacks.Nigeria Postpones Evacuation FlightNigeria, which has over 500 citizens already screened and cleared for return, postponed its first planned evacuation flight — initially scheduled for Monday — to Wednesday. Foreign affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa cited "unforeseen logistical considerations" for the delay.President Bola Tinubu has approved a total of five evacuation flights, with screening and registration of affected Nigerians extended to Wednesday as authorities continue processing applicants. The first flight was due to carry 270 citizens home.South Africa Looks to Receiving Countries to Cover Deportation CostsAs part of the wider government response, South Africa's Deputy Home Affairs Minister Njabulo Nzuza revealed on Radio 702 that Pretoria is now exploring asking receiving countries to contribute to the cost of deporting undocumented migrants — a move that is likely to add further strain to already tense diplomatic relations across the region.The crisis shows no sign of easing. With a self-imposed migrant deadline looming, evacuation flights still in progress, and a diplomatic spat between two of West Africa's biggest economies now in the open, the pressure on South Africa to demonstrate that it can protect foreign nationals on its soil is intensifying by the day.

Malawi, Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe repatriate citizens as South Africa xenophobia crisis deepens

Florentino Perez has been re-elected as Real Madrid president after defeating challenger Enrique Riquelme in the club's first contested presidential election in two decades.The vote marked a significant departure from recent tradition—Perez had been returned unopposed in each of Madrid's previous five electoral cycles, held in 2009, 2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025. Around 100,000 club members were eligible to cast their ballots, with Riquelme, a 37-year-old renewable energy entrepreneur, emerging as the sole challenger.Why Was the Election Called?The election was called by Perez himself despite holding an active mandate until 2029. In a rare press conference on May 12, the 79-year-old took aim at what he described as forces working against him "in the shadows," claiming there was an organized campaign to remove him from office. The move was widely seen as a bid to shore up his authority following back-to-back seasons without a major trophy—the club's worst such run in recent memory.Perez's Presidential HistoryPerez is the longest-serving president in Real Madrid's history. He first assumed the role in 2000 before stepping down in 2006, when Ramón Calderón took over. He returned to the presidency in 2009 following Calderón's resignation and has held the position continuously since, making Sunday's poll the first time members had actually voted in 20 years.Mourinho Return and Galáctico Signings PromisedAhead of the vote, Perez made a series of bold pledges contingent on his re-election. He announced the return of José Mourinho as head coach, confirmed the signings of Ibrahima Konaté and Denzel Dumfries, and promised to table a bid exceeding €150 million this Tuesday for an unnamed marquee attacking signing—billed as the next Galáctico arrival at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Florentino Perez re-elected Real Madrid president in first vote in 20 years

Nine people have been injured in a shooting near England's World Cup base in Kansas City, Missouri, raising security concerns ahead of the tournament.Police were called to reports of gunfire on Troost Avenue—less than five miles from England's training camp and a short distance from the team hotel they will use during the competition—at around 4:00am local time on Saturday.Kansas City Police Department captain Jake Becchina confirmed to The Athletic that officers were dispatched after shots were heard and arrived to find a large crowd dispersing. Three adult women sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital. It later emerged that a total of nine adults had made their way to various local hospitals, all with non-life-threatening injuries. No suspects are currently in custody, though officers continue to patrol the area.The incident comes just days after the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners accepted a $17 million federal security grant ahead of the World Cup, as reported by KCTV5. "We knew we needed the funding, so we kept moving forward with the planning," KCPD Deputy Chief Derek McCollum was quoted as saying. "We figured eventually that funding source would come through."England's squad and coaching staff are currently based in Palm Beach, Florida, where they are completing their pre-tournament preparations. On Saturday, they beat New Zealand 1-0 in their opening warm-up match in Tampa. They face Costa Rica at the Inter&amp;Co Stadium in Orlando on Wednesday before flying to Kansas City on Saturday, June 13, where they will remain for the duration of the tournament.The Three Lions will train at Swope Soccer Village, home of Sporting KC's reserve team and academy on the southeastern outskirts of the city.Kansas City is also serving as a base for Argentina and the Netherlands. The reigning World Cup holders will use Sporting KC's main training facility, while the Dutch will be based at the training ground of NWSL side Kansas City Current.The host city is expecting approximately 650,000 visitors during the tournament — an unusually large influx that presents considerable safety and logistical challenges for local authorities.

9 injured in shooting near England's World Cup base in Kansas City

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a series of planned power outages affecting communities in the Eastern, Volta, Ashanti, Accra West, Accra East, and Tema regions, running from Monday, June 8, to Sunday, June 14, 2025.In separate notices issued by the power distributor, ECG attributed the outages to emergency maintenance works, scheduled maintenance exercises, and ongoing technical challenges in a number of the affected communities.The company stated that the exercises form part of broader efforts to improve service delivery and strengthen the reliability of electricity supply across the affected areas.Depending on the location, outages are expected to run within various time windows—including 9:00am to 3:00pm, 10:00am to 4:00pm, and 9:00am to 5:00pm, among other designated time frames.ECG assured customers that engineers are already deployed and working to resolve the faults and restore supply as promptly as possible. The company added that electricity will be reinstated immediately after the maintenance works and technical issues are addressed.The latest round of outages comes as several parts of the country have continued to experience intermittent power interruptions in recent weeks, drawing concern from both residents and businesses.ECG apologized for the inconvenience caused to affected customers.<h2>ECG Announces Power Outages Across Ghana — June 8–14</h2><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780868568838-esy5m36wykh.webp" alt="ECG power outages schedules" data-credit="ECG power outages schedules" title="ECG power outages schedules" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780868661218-j8isvfzb6f.webp" alt="ECG power outages schedules" data-credit="ECG power outages schedules" title="ECG power outages schedules" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780868840020-kxyp4d1389r.webp" alt="ECG power outages schedules" data-credit="ECG power outages schedules" title="ECG power outages schedules" width="auto" height="auto"></div>

Power outages to hit parts of Accra and 4 other regions from June 8-14 - Check full ECG schedule

South Africa has issued a sharp diplomatic warning to Ghana over the manner in which the ongoing repatriation of Ghanaian nationals is being publicly handled, saying it will not tolerate what it described as undignified conduct surrounding the evacuation exercise.The warning comes as hundreds of Ghanaians are being flown home from South Africa following a surge in anti-immigrant protests and violence that have raised serious safety concerns among foreign communities living in the country.Background: Why Ghanaians Are LeavingGhana's government began organizing repatriation flights last month after growing fears over the safety of its citizens in South Africa. The latest evacuation flight drew attention after Ghana's embassy in Pretoria shared a video showing evacuees waving Ghanaian flags aboard the aircraft ahead of departure—a moment that appeared to irritate South African authorities.Lamola's WarningSouth Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, responded directly to comments made by Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressing clear dissatisfaction with the public framing of the evacuation.In a post on X, Lamola wrote:"Our initial hope was simply to assist the government of Ghana in repatriating its citizens in a humane and cordial manner.""However, we will not continue to tolerate... public spectacles characterized by incomplete information and outright misinformation devoid of any diplomatic decorum."A Country With a Xenophobia ProblemSouth Africa remains one of the continent's most sought-after destinations for migrant workers, drawing both documented and undocumented migrants from across Africa due to its relatively advanced economy. However, an unemployment rate exceeding 30 percent has repeatedly fuelled xenophobic sentiment and violence over the years.The latest wave of anti-immigrant unrest has been particularly alarming. A video allegedly showing the brutal assault of a Ghanaian man circulated widely on social media, intensifying public outrage and adding urgency to Ghana's evacuation efforts.Evacuations OngoingSeveral repatriation flights have already been completed, with additional evacuations expected as Ghana continues to respond to the deteriorating situation on the ground in South Africa.

South Africa warns Ghana over 'public spectacles' surrounding the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals

Accra's rainy season brings more than just relief from the heat—for thousands of residents, it signals weeks of anxiety, waterlogged roads, submerged homes, and genuine danger. With the Ghana Meteorological Service forecasting more heavy rainfall in the coming days following floods that have already claimed four lives and displaced families across the capital, knowing which areas carry the highest risk could save your life.Rapid urbanization, poor drainage infrastructure, and unregulated construction have made Accra increasingly vulnerable to flooding year after year. The rainy season typically runs from April to July, with a second peak in October—and parts of the city are already feeling the strain.Here are eight Accra communities particularly susceptible to flooding where residents and motorists should exercise extreme caution.1. OfankorSituated along the N1 Highway, Ofankor is among Accra's most flood-prone stretches. The Ofankor Barrier area becomes heavily inundated during sustained downpours, bringing traffic to a standstill and stranding pedestrians. In June 2023, flash floods submerged vehicles and caused widespread disruption along the corridor.2. WeijaWeija's location near the Weija Dam and the Densu River makes it uniquely vulnerable, particularly when dam spillages occur. The 2022 spillage submerged numerous homes and properties, displacing many residents. While dredging exercises have been carried out to ease the situation, the threat remains during peak rainfall periods.3. KasoaStraddling the boundary of Greater Accra and the Central Region, Kasoa floods quickly — even after relatively short spells of rain. Rapid urbanization and chronically poor drainage leave roads inundated and traffic gridlocked whenever heavy rain strikes, disrupting commerce and daily movement across the area.4. Kwame Nkrumah Circle (Circle)One of Accra's busiest transport hubs, Circle has a long and well-documented history of severe flooding. Its low-lying terrain and inadequate drainage cause water to accumulate rapidly, paralysing traffic and trade. The area gained tragic notoriety in June 2015, when floodwaters contributed to a fuel station explosion that claimed dozens of lives.5. East Legon HillsEast Legon Hills, one of Accra's fastest-growing residential areas, has seen a sharp rise in flooding incidents in recent years. Just two weeks ago, residents reported flooded homes and leaking roofs following heavy downpours. Unregulated development and insufficient drainage infrastructure continue to leave properties and roads exposed whenever rainfall is sustained.6. PantangLocated along the Accra-Aburi road, Pantang's low-lying terrain and rapid urban growth without matching infrastructure investment make it a recurring flooding hotspot. Heavy rains regularly leave roads waterlogged and transportation through the area severely disrupted.7. AkweteymanAkweteyman has emerged as one of Accra's increasingly vulnerable flood communities. Residents frequently contend with overflowing drains, waterlogged roads, and disrupted movement during periods of heavy or sustained rainfall.8. KaneshieKaneshie, one of Accra's major commercial and transport centers, is highly susceptible to flooding during the rainy season. The area's dense activity, aging drainage infrastructure, and low-lying sections along key roads mean that heavy rainfall quickly overwhelms the drainage network, leaving roads impassable and disrupting the busy market and transport operations that thousands of Accra residents depend on daily.

8 Accra flood-prone areas to avoid during heavy rains

Ghana Weather Report — Sunday, June 7, 2026Ghanaians across the south should brace for a misty, rain-touched morning as the Ghana Meteorological Agency forecasts a mixed but active weather day nationwide.What to Expect TodayThe day begins with misty and foggy conditions over coastal, mountainous and forest belt areas, with mostly cloudy skies dominating southern Ghana through the morning hours. Scattered rainfall is expected across coastal and inland areas from early morning into the early afternoon.As the day progresses, the south will see mostly cloudy conditions with occasional sunshine breaking through. The north will enjoy intervals of sun and cloud through the afternoon. However, from late afternoon into the evening, thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected to sweep through the middle, transition and northern sectors.Coastal waters are currently ROUGH, and seafarers and fisherfolk are advised to exercise caution.<hr>City-by-City ForecastSouthern Ghana — Coastal Belt<table style="min-width: 100px;"><colgroup><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">City</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Morning</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Afternoon</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Evening</th></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Accra</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rain (60%) 22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny breaks 33°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 27°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Kasoa</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rain (60%) 22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny breaks 33°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 27°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Cape Coast</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rain (60%) 22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny breaks 32°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 27°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Aflao</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rain (60%) 24°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny breaks 32°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 27°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Takoradi</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 23°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rain (40%) 31°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 26°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Axim</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 24°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rain (40%) 30°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 26°C</td></tr></tbody></table>Eastern &amp; Forest Belt<table style="min-width: 100px;"><colgroup><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">City</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Morning</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Afternoon</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Evening</th></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Ho</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 21°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 32°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 28°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Koforidua</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rain (40%) 22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 32°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 28°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Akim Oda</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rain (40%) 22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 31°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 28°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Kumasi</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mist (40%) 24°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 33°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 27°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Obuasi</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mist (40%) 24°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny intervals 32°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 27°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Tarkwa</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mist (40%) 23°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 32°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 27°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sefwi Bekwai</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mist (40%) 24°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 33°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 28°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Goaso</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mist (40%) 23°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (30%) 32°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 28°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunyani</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mist (40%) 23°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 32°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 28°C</td></tr></tbody></table>Middle &amp; Transition Belt<table style="min-width: 100px;"><colgroup><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">City</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Morning</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Afternoon</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Evening</th></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Kete Krachi</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Partly cloudy 22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (30%) 34°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 27°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Kintampo</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Partly cloudy 23°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny intervals 33°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 28°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Techiman</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mist (40%) 24°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny intervals 34°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (60%) 27°C</td></tr></tbody></table>Northern Ghana<table style="min-width: 100px;"><colgroup><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">City</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Morning</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Afternoon</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Evening</th></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Tamale</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Partly cloudy 23°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny periods 34°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Partly cloudy 30°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Yendi</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Partly cloudy 23°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (30%) 35°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Partly cloudy 30°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Bole</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 25°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny periods 34°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 29°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Damongo</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 25°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny periods 34°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 29°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Bolgatanga</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny periods 35°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Partly cloudy 32°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Nalerigu</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny periods 35°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Partly cloudy 32°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Wa</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Mostly cloudy 21°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Sunny periods 35°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thunderstorms (40%) 30°C</td></tr></tbody></table><hr>Temperature Range by Zone<table style="min-width: 75px;"><colgroup><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Zone</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Min</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Max</th></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Coast</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">33°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Forest</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">21°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">33°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Transition</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">22°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">34°C</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Northern</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">21°C</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">35°C</td></tr></tbody></table><hr><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780820023294-opkk7k6qgqi.jpeg" alt="Weather forecast" data-credit="Weather forecast" title="Weather forecast" width="auto" height="auto"></div>

Ghana Weather Forecast: Rain and thunderstorms expected - June 7

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced scheduled power outages for Sunday, June 7, 2026, affecting several communities across the Tema and Accra East regions as part of planned maintenance works aimed at improving network reliability and service delivery.Tema Region — 10:00am to 3:00pmResidents and businesses in the Tema Region will experience a power outage from 10:00am to 3:00pm. The following areas will be affected: Wildlife Gate, Army Recruits Training School, PV Quarries, Eastern Quarries, Twin Quarries, Recycling, Inzag, Mawu Be Ji Be, Able Academy, Mavis Industries, Polyster, Community 25 Mall, and surrounding areas.Accra East Region — 9:00am to 5:00pmCommunities in the Accra East Region face a longer outage window, running from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Areas affected include Doblo, Nsuma, Satellite, Sapeiman, Medie, Kotoku, Pobiman, Blue Skies, Hebron, Ahodwo, Fotobi, Pakrom, Obudan, Kwasikrom, and surrounding areas.ECG's Message to Affected CustomersECG has apologized for the inconvenience and urged affected customers to make alternative arrangements for power-dependent activities during the specified hours. The company has assured that electricity supply will be restored to all affected areas upon completion of the maintenance work.Customers are encouraged to follow ECG's official communication channels for further updates and announcements.

ECG announces planned power outages for Tema and Accra East on Sunday, June 7 - See areas

Ghana's Group L rivals England were far from impressive as they edged past New Zealand 1-0 in a pre-World Cup friendly in Florida, offering the Black Stars plenty of encouragement ahead of their June 23 showdown at Gillette Stadium.Harry Kane's 79th international goal, a first-half stoppage-time header from Djed Spence's delivery, was the only difference between the two sides, with Thomas Tuchel's men struggling to assert their quality against a determined New Zealand outfit ranked 85th in the world.Can the Difference in the Flat First HalfEngland dominated possession in the opening exchanges but lacked a clinical edge. Ollie Watkins dragged a low effort wide before Kane saw a long-range strike parried by goalkeeper Max Crocombe. New Zealand were not without their moments either, with Matthew Garbett forcing a smart save from Jordan Pickford as the All Whites refused to sit deep.The breakthrough eventually came in first-half stoppage time when Kane glanced a header into the bottom corner, his 79th goal for the Three Lions, to give England a slender lead they would not extend.Tuchel's Changes Fail to Spark EnglandTuchel made wholesale changes at the break, handing 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha his international debut and recalling Al-Ahli forward Ivan Toney for his first England cap in 12 months. The fresh legs made little difference. Dan Burn headed agonizingly against the post from eight yards, while Jude Bellingham fired over from a promising position late on as New Zealand's backline held firm.What It Means for GhanaEngland now prepares for a final warm-up against Costa Rica before their World Cup begins. For Carlos Queiroz and the Black Stars, this was a watching brief full of positives a ponderous England side that created little and conceded chances to a team ranked far below Ghana's Group L rivals. The June 23 clash just got a little more interesting.

Black Stars' opponents England beat New Zealand ahead of the World Cup

Patients seeking healthcare services at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) were left stranded on Saturday, June 6, following the commencement of an indefinite strike action by doctors at the facility.The industrial action, declared by the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA), disrupted healthcare delivery at one of Ghana’s largest referral hospitals, leaving many patients uncertain about where to seek treatment.The strike follows an emergency meeting held by KADA on June 5, during which members reviewed recent developments at the hospital, including persistent congestion at the Emergency Department and the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer.A visit to the facility by Citi News disclosed scenes of frustration and disappointment as patients who had arrived expecting to receive medical attention were informed that doctors had withdrawn their services.Several patients were seen leaving the hospital premises after being unable to access consultations and treatment.The impact of the strike was particularly evident among patients requiring specialist care and follow-up reviews.Many expressed concern about the implications of the industrial action on their health, especially those suffering from chronic medical conditions.Among those affected was asthmatic patient Baba Aliba Camara, who said he had already spent a day at the hospital undergoing medical assessments and had returned hoping to continue treatment.“I was here yesterday at 6am and the doctor asked me to go and run some tests and so I came today to see a doctor but there is no doctor to attend to me and so I am going home. I don’t know what will happen to me between today and tomorrow when I go home.”His situation reflects the difficulties being faced by many patients who depend on KATH for essential medical services.For some, the strike has interrupted ongoing treatment plans, while others requiring urgent consultations have been forced to seek alternatives elsewhere.

Patients stranded as KATH doctors strike

A tragic journey through the Sahara Desert has claimed the lives of at least 49 people after the truck transporting them broke down in a remote area of northern Niger, leaving passengers stranded without water for several days.According to local authorities, the victims were returning from neighbouring Mali, where they had participated in celebrations marking the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha. Their vehicle reportedly became immobilised more than 80 kilometres west of Assamaka, a key border crossing between Niger and Algeria.The governor of Agadez described the incident as a devastating reminder of the dangers associated with desert travel."The travellers found themselves trapped in the heart of a hostile environment where extreme temperatures and lack of supply points make survival extremely difficult," the governor said.Only two people survived the ordeal. After an arduous trek across the desert, they managed to reach Assamaka and alert authorities, prompting a rescue operation.Officials said the truck had departed from the Malian town of Telhandek but veered off its intended route before suffering a mechanical failure. Passengers and the driver reportedly spent several days attempting to repair the vehicle, but their efforts were unsuccessful.With water supplies exhausted and temperatures soaring, dozens succumbed to dehydration."Deprived of water and unable to repair the vehicle, most of the passengers could not survive," the governor's statement noted.Rescue teams later discovered dozens of bodies beneath and around the stranded truck. All the victims were Nigerien nationals and were buried in mass graves by emergency responders dispatched to the area.<h3>Another Stranded Truck Discovered</h3>While returning from the rescue mission, authorities encountered another broken-down truck carrying more than 60 passengers. The vehicle had reportedly been stranded for three days after suffering a battery failure.The second truck had departed from Harouba in Mali, located more than 300 kilometres from the Niger border. Rescue personnel, supported by Nigerien troops, provided water and assistance to the exhausted travellers before repairing the vehicle and helping them continue their journey safely.<h3>Sahara Route Remains Deadly for Migrants</h3>The Sahara Desert continues to serve as a major migration corridor for thousands of West Africans seeking opportunities in North Africa and Europe. Despite repeated warnings about the dangers of the route, many continue to undertake the perilous journey in search of better economic prospects.Humanitarian organisations say deaths from dehydration, vehicle breakdowns, and exposure to extreme weather remain common across the vast desert landscape.Chehuo Azizou, head of a local NGO working with migrants, said such tragedies are unfortunately frequent."We have been sensitising drivers, travellers, and those involved in migration activities about the dangers of crossing the desert. Sadly, incidents like this are not unusual," he said.The governor of Agadez added that the tragedy highlights the vulnerability of many young people engaged in migration and cross-border trade, often forced to travel through dangerous and unstable regions in pursuit of a better life.

About 50 returning from Eid celebrations die of thirst after truck breaks down in Sahara Desert

Bayern Munich teenager Lennart Kahl has been ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a thigh injury in Germany's final training session ahead of their warm-up fixture against World Cup co-hosts the United States.The 18-year-old, one of the most exciting young prospects in European football, had impressed in Germany's 4-0 friendly victory over Finland on Sunday, registering an assist before the injury struck at the worst possible time.RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouedraogo has been named as Kahl's replacement in the Germany squad.Nagelsmann Sends Message to KahlGermany head coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed his sympathy for the youngster while backing his replacement to step up."It's a huge shock for him and all of us that he's missing the World Cup," Nagelsmann said. "It's only a small consolation that he's young and has many tournaments ahead of him. We would have loved to have him on the team."On Ouedraogo, Nagelsmann added, "He's highly talented, and we expect him to play with courage and freedom."Germany's Group E Fixtures — 2026 FIFA World CupWith Kahl's absence confirmed, Germany now turn their full attention to their World Cup opener. Nagelsmann's side begins their Group E campaign against Curacao on 14 June, before facing Ivory Coast on 20 June and Ecuador on 25 June.

Lennart Kahl ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup; Assan Ouedraogo called up

Ghana is on track to produce its first locally manufactured vaccine by 2027, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to strengthen healthcare security, reduce reliance on imports, and build a sustainable pharmaceutical industry.The Chief Executive Officer of the National Vaccine Institute (NVI), Dr. Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey, revealed that the institute has signed a technology transfer agreement with Indonesian pharmaceutical giant PT Bio Farma to facilitate the local production of tetanus-diphtheria vaccines in Ghana.According to reports, the tetanus-diphtheria vaccine will become the first vaccine to be manufactured in Ghana under the country's ambitious vaccine production agenda, positioning the nation as a future player in Africa's growing pharmaceutical sector.<h2>Ghana's Drive Towards Vaccine Self-Sufficiency</h2>The initiative forms part of Ghana's broader strategy to establish a robust vaccine manufacturing industry ahead of the expiration of support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance in 2030.Dr. Sodzi-Tettey disclosed that the NVI is collaborating with local pharmaceutical firms, including Atlantic Life Sciences and DEK Vaccines Limited, to develop the country's vaccine production capabilities.He noted that establishing a fully functional vaccine manufacturing ecosystem requires substantial financial investment, with production infrastructure and facility development projected to exceed $100 million.<h2>Funding and Strategic Partnerships</h2>To support the ambitious project, the National Vaccine Institute is pursuing strategic partnerships with major financial institutions, including Ghana EXIM Bank, African Export-Import Bank, and International Finance Corporation.The vaccine manufacturing agenda recently received a major boost after John Dramani Mahama approved an additional $50 million in seed funding. The funding is expected to support vaccine production, research and development, infrastructure expansion, and compliance with international regulatory standards.<h2>Why Local Vaccine Production Matters</h2>Currently, Ghana relies heavily on imported vaccines and participates in co-financing arrangements with Gavi to meet its immunisation needs. However, the country is expected to fully finance its vaccine procurement by 2030.Local vaccine production is expected to:<ul><li>Improve Ghana's health security and emergency preparedness.</li><li>Reduce dependence on foreign vaccine supplies.</li><li>Create jobs and boost the pharmaceutical industry.</li><li>Strengthen research and innovation in healthcare.</li><li>Position Ghana as a regional hub for vaccine manufacturing in West Africa.</li></ul>If successful, the 2027 target will represent a historic achievement for Ghana's healthcare sector and a major step toward achieving long-term vaccine independence.

Ghana set to produce first locally manufactured vaccine by 2027

Ivory Coast's 2-1 victory over France in a World Cup warm-up match pulled in an average television audience of 5.2 million viewers in France on Thursday evening, making it the most-watched programme of the night.Broadcast live on TF1, the friendly attracted a 31.1 per cent audience share — figures consistent with typical viewership for Les Bleus fixtures and well ahead of all competing programmes on other French channels.The result itself was a notable one, with Ivory Coast handing Didier Deschamps' side a defeat as both nations stepped up their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.TF1 holds broadcast rights to France's pre-tournament friendlies through its partnership with the French Football Federation, while M6 will carry the World Cup itself free-to-air across France.France have one more warm-up fixture remaining — a friendly against Northern Ireland on Monday — before opening their World Cup campaign against Senegal on June 16.The strong ratings reflect the sustained appetite for international football in France ahead of a tournament that gets underway on June 11 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Ivory Coast's win over France draws 5.2 Million viewers on TF1

A nurse at the Tema Community 22 Polyclinic is alleged to have been physically attacked by a patient's relative on Thursday, June 4, 2026, after asking the individual to leave the ward at the end of visiting hours.According to available information, the nurse approached the visitor during routine enforcement of the facility's visiting regulations and requested that they vacate the ward. The situation reportedly escalated, culminating in an alleged physical assault on the healthcare worker.It remains unclear what triggered the confrontation, and it is not yet known whether any arrests have been made in connection with the incident.The alleged attack has reignited concerns about the safety of frontline healthcare workers in Ghana, who routinely navigate difficult working environments while delivering patient care.Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the matter. GhNewsMedia will provide updates as more information becomes available.<h2>Video</h2><div class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm border border-gray-200 my-4"><div class="relative w-full" style="padding-bottom: 146.462%;"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2091313911788175%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=325&amp;t=0" width="325" height="476" title="Embedded content" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" class="absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full rounded-lg border border-gray-200 shadow-sm"></iframe></div><div class="mt-2 text-xs text-gray-500 text-center">Embedded content from: www.facebook.com</div></div>

Nurse allegedly assaulted at Tema Polyclinic after enforcing visiting hours [Video]

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just days away, fans heading to matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico will need to leave a few things at home—starting with vuvuzelas.FIFA has officially banned the iconic plastic horns from all 16 tournament venues as part of its stadium code of conduct. The vuvuzela, a long plastic instrument synonymous with South African football culture, first captured global attention at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa but has since attracted widespread criticism for its relentless droning sound, frequently compared to a swarm of bees.What Else Is Banned?Vuvuzelas aren't the only items on FIFA's prohibited list. Whistles, air horns, and any other excessively loud noise-making devices are forbidden across all venues. Laser-emitting instruments and laser pointers are also banned.On the dress code front, FIFA has made clear that body paint and body tattoos do not count as clothing. Streaking, flashing, or exposing intimate body parts is strictly prohibited.In a widely discussed move, FIFA has also banned reusable water bottles from all venues, citing safety concerns.Fans who breach any of these rules risk being denied entry or ejected from the stadium.About the TournamentThe expanded 48-team World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19, with Mexico kicking off the tournament against South Africa on opening day.

FIFA bans vuvuzelas and other items at 2026 World Cup venues

Ivory Coast recorded a famous 2-1 comeback win over France in an international friendly on Thursday, claiming their first-ever victory against the two-time FIFA World Cup champions and sending a strong message ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The match, played in Nantes, served as one of France's final preparations before travelling to North America for the expanded 48-team tournament. Despite dominating much of the first half, Didier Deschamps' side failed to capitalise on several opportunities and were ultimately punished by a resilient Ivorian team.France captain Kylian Mbappé nearly opened the scoring early in the contest as he chased Olivier Giroud's all-time goalscoring record for Les Bleus. However, Ivory Coast goalkeeper Yahia Fofana produced an excellent save to deny the Real Madrid superstar.The hosts continued to control possession and create chances through Adrien Rabiot and Michael Olise, while Ivory Coast looked dangerous on the counterattack, with Simon Adingra forcing Mike Maignan into action.France eventually took the lead moments before halftime when Rayan Cherki produced a brilliant solo effort, weaving through defenders before calmly slotting the ball past Fofana.The Elephants responded superbly after the restart. Former Arsenal winger Nicolas Pépé made an instant impact from the bench, providing the assist for Guéla Doué to equalise in the 53rd minute.With momentum firmly on their side, Ivory Coast completed a stunning turnaround in the 84th minute. Doué turned provider again, setting up Manchester United star Amad Diallo, who fired home a clinical first-time finish to seal a memorable victory.The result is a major boost for coach Emerse Faé and his squad as they continue their preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, while France will seek an immediate response in their final warm-up match against Northern Ireland.

Ivory Coast defeat France to secure historic first-ever victory ahead of World Cup 2026

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, Nike has launched an ambitious new advertising campaign led by French superstar Kylian Mbappé and featuring a host of global sporting icons, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Vinicius Jr., Erling Haaland, and NBA legend LeBron James.The six-minute short film, titled "Rip The Script," was released on Thursday and serves as Nike's flagship World Cup campaign. The advertisement comes just weeks after rival sportswear giant Adidas unveiled its own star-studded commercial featuring actors and footballers such as Timothée Chalamet, Lamine Yamal, Jude Bellingham, Lionel Messi, and Ousmane Dembélé.In Nike's latest production, Mbappé takes center stage from the opening scene. Dressed in France's national team colors, the Real Madrid forward is shown disrupting a film set by refusing to follow a scripted sequence, setting the tone for a campaign that celebrates individuality and creativity.The advert then transitions through a series of interconnected scenes featuring some of football's biggest names. Erling Haaland appears on set alongside celebrities Kim Kardashian and Travis Scott, while Brazil star Vinicius Jr. showcases his trademark dribbling skills before being joined by Mexico striker Raúl Jiménez.<h3>Cristiano Ronaldo Takes on a Superhero Role</h3>One of the campaign's standout moments arrives with Cristiano Ronaldo's appearance alongside LeBron James during a production meeting. The Portuguese legend soon breaks away from the script, launching into an action-packed sequence that sees him challenged by Netherlands defender Virgil van Dijk.In a dramatic twist, Ronaldo is sent crashing into a burning house but emerges unharmed, reinforcing his larger-than-life image. The scene is accompanied by the iconic track "Still D.R.E." by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, adding to the cinematic feel of the advert.The campaign also features football legends and current stars, including Didier Drogba, Zlatan Ibrahimović, Eric Cantona, Federico Valverde, Nico Williams, Cole Palmer, and Bruno Fernandes, all contributing to Nike's celebration of football's biggest personalities ahead of the tournament.<div class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm border border-gray-200 my-4"><div class="relative w-full" style="padding-bottom: 56.0714%;"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2053587705266269%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=560&amp;t=0" width="560" height="314" title="Embedded content" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" class="absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full rounded-lg border border-gray-200 shadow-sm"></iframe></div><div class="mt-2 text-xs text-gray-500 text-center">Embedded content from: www.facebook.com</div></div><h3>Nike's World Cup Statement</h3>The advert concludes with all of Nike's football ambassadors coming together for one final sequence, delivering a powerful message about self-expression, confidence, and rewriting expectations on the world's biggest sporting stage.As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Nike's "Rip The Script" campaign is already generating significant buzz and reinforcing the brand's association with some of the game's most influential stars.

Nike's 'Rip The Script' Ad stars Mbappe, LeBron James, Ronaldo ahead of World Cup 2026

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released an online database identifying foreign nationals it describes as “the worst of the worst” criminal offenders facing deportation.The database, maintained by DHS and managed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), contains the names, photographs, and records of non-citizens convicted of various offences and currently undergoing immigration enforcement proceedings.Among those listed are 32 Ghanaians accused or convicted of crimes ranging from shoplifting and fraud to domestic violence, weapons-related offences, child cruelty, and credit card-related fraud.They are part of a wider group of at least 355 West African nationals, including individuals from Liberia and Cameroon, who have been flagged for removal from the United States.The publication comes amid intensified immigration enforcement under the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. DHS data indicates that 478 Ghanaians were arrested by ICE in 2025 alone.As of October 2025, approximately 2,470 Ghanaian nationals were being held in U.S. detention facilities pending deportation—one of the highest figures recorded for any African country.Official figures further show that 312 Ghanaians were deported to Accra between January and August 2025, marking a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2024.Authorities link the rise in arrests and removals to stricter immigration policies, including the Global Enforcement Initiative launched in April 2025, as well as an executive order issued in February 2025 prioritising the removal of individuals with criminal convictions or those deemed national security risks.However, U.S. immigration officials emphasise that an ICE arrest does not automatically lead to deportation, as each case is subject to legal and administrative review.<h2>List Below</h2><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" 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src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780581584941-v53ddu8zr08.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780581908582-e2n14w9vsy6.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780581972540-k6n76q9vnn.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582010254-s5c7budl66r.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582044080-vjcrqi5y0wd.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582085472-3er58efmcl5.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582122302-p1gzoae27zk.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582350403-gmnoycgv3c.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582388459-ea5gh58o92d.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582424289-edr8op29pbv.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582469019-td81ie1okm.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582497587-v2l75oi4ump.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582537350-12j86n86tyq.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780582568094-io2has63rx.webp" alt="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" data-credit="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" title="Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation" width="auto" height="auto"></div>

List of 32 Ghanaians on US 'worst of the worst' crime list facing deportation

<ul><li>A record 1,248 players representing 48 nations have been confirmed following the submission of final squad lists to FIFA</li><li>From global icons to debutants, the squads reflect unprecedented diversity and worldwide representation</li><li>Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa set for historic sixth FIFA World Cup™ campaigns</li></ul>The final squad lists for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ have been <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://extranets.fifa.com/Public/MailClickTrackingHandler.ashx?id=2332536_en&amp;name=TSFjWwNDkL%2bNa1atnLLXJGsDaiifPZOP&amp;target=f%2baONvpNyUfxc3hYJSDWiBFVttKrSOCMWsM%2bxKte%2fg5bLx%2bshC1Q7jvp3ur2Vfb%2bqSqdGH5zRipct%2bLFD8wc6hG75sKKPzvc">published by FIFA</a>, representing one of the tournament’s most exciting milestones with just nine days to go until kick-off. With 48 teams and 1,248 players made available to take to the pitch across 104 matches in Canada, Mexico and the United States, this edition represents a watershed moment for the global game, opening the door to more nations, players and their fans than ever before.The confirmed squad lists underline the scale and enduring appeal of the tournament with 357 players returning after at least one previous FIFA World Cup™ squad inclusion. Some 891 players are set to experience the competition for the first time, highlighting both continuity and renewal across the global game.The generational breadth is equally striking, with over 25 years separating the oldest player (Scotland’s Craig Gordon at 43 years and 162 days old) from the youngest (Mexico’s Gilberto Mora at 17 years and 240 days old). A total of 22 players under 20 years old and seven players aged 40 or above at the start of the tournament could feature, whilst 22 FIFA World Cup winners are returning to the global stage.Combined with the return of established stars to football’s premier competition, this tournament also brings a new wave of players and nations into the spotlight. Cabo Verde, Curaçao, Jordan and Uzbekistan are set to experience the FIFA World Cup for the first time, highlighting how the expanded format is making the competition more representative of the global game.One of the standout stories is Uzbekistan’s historic first appearance on the world stage, with rising stars such as Manchester City’s Abdukodir Khusanov making dreams come true back home. Other highlights of the next generation of players include France’s Warren Zaïre-Emery, New Zealand’s Finn Surman and Morocco’s Bilal El Khannouss, among many others. Meanwhile, Argentina’s Lionel Messi, Portuguese talisman Cristiano Ronaldo and Mexico’s goalkeeping icon Guillermo Ochoa are set for record-breaking sixth FIFA World Cup campaigns.The confirmed lists reflect the global nature of modern football, with 449 different clubs from 71 countries represented (14 from the AFC region, six from CAF, seven from Concacaf, eight from CONMEBOL, one from the OFC, and 35 from UEFA). The squad lists also highlight contrasting national profiles, ranging from Qatar and Saudi Arabia, whose teams are built almost entirely from domestically based players (25 out of 26 in both cases) to others, such as Cabo Verde, Congo DR, Côte d'Ivoire, Curaçao, Senegal and Uruguay, that draw their entire squads from overseas leagues.When it comes to those masterminding the squad lists, Ghana’s Portuguese tactician Carlos Queiroz is coaching at his fifth consecutive FIFA World Cup, having previously led Portugal in 2010 and IR Iran in 2014, 2018 and 2022. He is only the second coach to appear at five straight tournaments, after Bora Milutinović (1986–2002).The confirmed squad lists embody what makes the tournament truly unique — a celebration of excellence, diversity and global unity through football.The full squad lists submitted by the 48 Participating Member Associations on Monday, 1&nbsp;June, are available on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="http://FIFA.com">FIFA.com</a>. In line with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://extranets.fifa.com/Public/MailClickTrackingHandler.ashx?id=2332536_en&amp;name=yjIMFhjG6%2bJVUyq6jIrJNpRl6pwXC3OvTjpKOZAA%2fMLyRSaev5o04w%3d%3d&amp;target=f%2baONvpNyUe87uYRU66maQqUZSxw9saEKDDgG%2btXppi84MdchtgQNBMZpingdJzvabE%2b3vCxdCc1uZ1E%2fYFktxQat%2fXGRWVXdbuogPIKt%2fYRu%2bbCij873A%3d%3d">Regulations for the FIFA World Cup 26</a>, replacements are permitted only due to serious injury or illness up to 24 hours before the kick‑off of a team’s first match, unless otherwise approved by FIFA.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Squads Confirmed: 1,248 players across 48 nations revealed

Many travellers heading to the United States may be breaking the law without even knowing it.That souvenir, snack, or gift carefully packed in your suitcase could land you in trouble at the border, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The agency enforces some of the world’s strictest import regulations, acting on behalf of more than 40 federal agencies to safeguard public health, agriculture, wildlife, and national security.While most passengers are aware that drugs, weapons, and other obvious contraband are banned, fewer realise that everyday items such as fresh fruits, seeds, bush meat, animal products, medication, plants, and even cultural souvenirs can be confiscated on arrival. In some cases, travellers may face fines or criminal penalties for failing to comply with these rules.However, bush meat is just one item among many that are either prohibited or tightly regulated.Below is a comprehensive list of 25 categories of goods identified by CBP as restricted, controlled, or outright prohibited when entering the United States.If you want, I can also tighten the entire list into a more SEO-friendly feature article with headlines, meta descriptions, and subhead formatting for publication.<h2>1. Absinthe</h2>Not all absinthe is banned, but it must meet strict requirements. It must be thujone-free, containing less than 10 parts per million of thujone.The word "absinthe" cannot stand alone on the label, and the packaging must not suggest hallucinogenic or mind-altering effects. Products that fail to meet these standards may be seized.<h2>2. Alcoholic Beverages</h2>Alcohol imports are governed by both federal and state laws. The state where a traveler first enters the United States determines how much alcohol may be imported and whether a license is required.<h2>3. Automobiles</h2>Imported vehicles must comply with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emissions standards and Department of Transportation safety regulations. Most foreign-purchased vehicles require modifications before they can legally remain in the country.<h2>4. Biological Materials</h2>Biological specimens such as bacterial cultures, fungi, viruses, animal tissues, and research samples generally require permits from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and/or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).<h2>5. Ceramic Tableware</h2>Although not prohibited, ceramic tableware manufactured in some countries may contain dangerous levels of lead in the glaze. Although not prohibited, ceramic tableware manufactured in some countries may contain dangerous levels of lead in the glaze. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends testing imported tableware or using it for decorative purposes only.<h2>6. Cultural Artifacts and Cultural Property</h2>Buying an artifact abroad does not automatically grant the right to import it into the United States. Importers may need export permits, ownership documentation, and receipts. Various archaeological and cultural objects are protected under international agreements.<h2>7. Defense Articles or Items with Military Applications</h2>Military-related software, blueprints, technical information, and equipment often require licenses before importation or exportation. Certain dual-use items may also be regulated.<h2>8. Dog and Cat Fur</h2>The importation, manufacture, sale, transport, or distribution of products containing dog or cat fur is illegal. Violators can face civil penalties of up to $10,000 for each knowing and intentional violation, $5,000 for each gross negligent violation, or $3,000 for each negligent violation.<h2>9. Drug Paraphernalia</h2>Drug paraphernalia is prohibited unless specifically intended for legitimate medical purposes. Illegal items may be seized, and violations can result in fines or imprisonment.<h2>10. Firearms</h2>Travelers carrying firearms must comply with strict documentation and registration requirements. Travellers must complete CBP Form 4457 and present the firearm to a CBP officer before departure. The form and any unused ammunition must also be presented to CBP upon return.<h2>11. Fish and Wildlife</h2>Wildlife products, including ivory, skins, feathers, tusks, shells, reptiles, birds, and marine mammals, are heavily regulated. Many endangered species products are prohibited altogether.<h2>12. Food Products (Raw and Prepared)</h2>Bush meat is not permitted. Most products containing meat, including soup mixes and stock cubes, are also restricted. Some packaged foods such as spices, honey, tea, and coffee are generally allowed. Certain imported food products also require advance notification to the FDA before arriving in the United States.<h2>13. Fruits and Vegetables</h2>Fresh fruits and vegetables are among the most commonly confiscated items at U.S. borders because they may introduce harmful pests and diseases. CBP warns that travelers who fail to declare agricultural products can face fines of $300 for first-time offenders and $500 for a second violation.<h2>14. Game and Hunting Trophies</h2>Importing hunting trophies requires entry through designated ports and often involves permits and wildlife declarations.<h2>15. Gold</h2>Gold coins, medals, and bullion are generally admissible. However, gold originating from certain sanctioned countries is prohibited, and copies of gold coins must be properly marked by the country of issuance.<h2>16. Haitian Animal Hide Drums</h2>Animal hide drums from Haiti have been linked to cases of cutaneous anthrax and are subject to health restrictions unless properly treated and certified.<h2>17. Meats, Livestock, and Poultry</h2>Fresh, dried, canned, or processed meat products from most foreign countries are prohibited. Foods prepared with meat are also generally banned because of animal disease concerns. Bush meat falls within this prohibited category and may be confiscated by CBP officers.<h2>18. Medication</h2>Travelers should carry only medications prescribed to them and keep them in their original containers. Non-U.S. citizens should also carry a valid prescription or doctor's note in English. Counterfeit and unauthorized medicines are prohibited.<h2>19. Merchandise from Embargoed Countries</h2>Goods originating from countries subject to U.S. sanctions, including Cuba and Iran, are generally prohibited without specific government authorization.<h2>20. Pets</h2>The importation of pets is tightly regulated. Certain animals, including African rodents, civets, and nonhuman primates, are prohibited. Dogs must have valid rabies vaccination certificates, most species of snails are not admissible, and some birds are subject to quarantine requirements.<h2>21. Photographic Film</h2>Film is generally permitted, but it may be inspected if authorities suspect it contains illegal material. Duty rules vary depending on where the film was purchased and developed.<h2>22. Plants and Seeds</h2>Many plants, seeds, cuttings, and plant products require permits and inspection. Some species are prohibited entirely because they pose risks to agriculture and native ecosystems.<h2>23. Soil</h2>Soil is prohibited unless accompanied by an approved import permit. All soil must be declared upon arrival.<h2>24. Textiles and Clothing</h2>Personal clothing and textiles are generally allowed, although duties may apply. Commercial shipments from certain countries may be subject to quotas or additional documentation requirements.<h2>25. Trademark and Copyrighted Articles</h2>Counterfeit goods and piratical copies of protected copyrights are subject to detention and seizure. Travelers may be permitted to import one article of each type bearing a counterfeit trademark for personal use, but this exemption may be granted no more than once every 30 days.A similar personal use exemption applies to copyrighted articles, provided they are for personal, non-commercial use and are not intended for sale or distribution. If any such item is sold within one year of importation, it or its value is subject to forfeiture.

25 banned items you must not carry into the US

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has confirmed that one person has died while four others were rescued following the collapse of a two-story building at Adenta New Site in Accra on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.According to the GNFS, the incident trapped five members of the same family beneath the rubble, prompting an intensive rescue operation by emergency response teams.Speaking to the GNFS media team, Regional Fire Officer ACFO Rashid Kwame revealed that four victims were successfully pulled from the debris and rushed to the 37 Military Hospital for medical treatment.He explained that rescue efforts were particularly challenging due to the position of the final victim, a woman who had become trapped between two structural pillars. Emergency personnel used specialized rescue equipment and chiseling tools in an attempt to reach her.Sadly, the woman was later recovered from the wreckage but was pronounced dead. Her body was subsequently handed over to the police for transfer to the morgue."There were five people trapped in the building. We managed to rescue four, but the last victim, a female, was retrieved lifeless from beneath the rubble and handed over to the police," ACFO Rashid stated.<h3>Family of Five Trapped</h3>Officials disclosed that all five victims belonged to the same household, comprising three males and two females. The deceased has been identified as 38-year-old Margaret, who was also the mother of two of the rescued victims.<h3>Preliminary Investigations Point to Structural Concerns</h3>Initial assessments by the Ghana National Fire Service suggest that structural weaknesses may have contributed to the collapse.Investigators gathered accounts from residents who claimed the building had shown visible signs of instability prior to the incident, with some describing the structure as noticeably tilted.ACFO Rashid further disclosed that a manhole had reportedly been constructed close to some of the building's supporting pillars, raising concerns about the integrity of the foundation.Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the collapse.<h3>NADMO Officials Visit Survivors</h3>Meanwhile, officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), led by Deputy Director-General for Operations Teddy Safori Addi, visited the survivors at the 37 Military Hospital.The delegation assessed the condition of the victims and assured them of support as they continue receiving medical treatment.The tragic incident has renewed concerns over building safety standards and structural integrity in rapidly developing communities across Ghana.

4 rescued, 1 confirmed dead after 2-storey building collapses in Adenta

Today marks 11 years since one of the darkest days in Ghana's history—the June 3, 2015 flood and fire disaster at the GOIL filling station near Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra.What began as a heavy downpour quickly turned into a national catastrophe when floodwaters engulfed large parts of the capital. Hundreds of people sought refuge at a nearby fuel station, unaware that tragedy was moments away. A devastating explosion and fire ripped through the area, claiming more than 150 lives according to official records, while some reports placed the death toll above 200, making it one of the deadliest disasters in Ghana's history.The disaster exposed longstanding challenges facing Accra, including poor drainage systems, indiscriminate waste disposal, uncontrolled development, and construction on waterways. Investigations later found that fuel leaking into floodwaters ignited, triggering the inferno that turned a night of heavy rain into a national tragedy.Eleven years later, the pain remains fresh for survivors, families who lost loved ones, and a nation that watched helplessly as the tragedy unfolded. The June 3 disaster was not merely an accident; it became a painful reminder of the consequences of inadequate urban planning and environmental neglect.While governments over the years have implemented measures to improve drainage infrastructure and strengthen disaster preparedness, recent flooding incidents across Accra serve as a reminder that the challenge has not yet been fully addressed. The scenes witnessed during heavy rains in recent weeks show that Ghana must continue investing in resilient infrastructure, enforce building regulations, protect waterways from encroachment, and improve waste management systems.The responsibility, however, does not rest solely with authorities. Citizens also have a crucial role to play by disposing of waste responsibly, keeping drains clear, and supporting efforts to create cleaner and safer communities.As we commemorate the victims of June 3, 2015, we honor their memory by renewing our commitment to ensuring such a tragedy never happens again.Today, Ghana remembers. We mourn those we lost, stand with the survivors and bereaved families, and reflect on the lessons that must continue to guide our actions.May the souls of all those who perished rest in perfect peace, and may their memory inspire a safer and more resilient Ghana.

June 3 Disaster: 11 years on, Ghana remembers a tragedy that must never be forgotten

<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://www.ghnewsmedia.com/tech/whatsapp-launches-total-private-conversations-with-its-ai-chatbot">WhatsApp</a> is reportedly preparing a significant design overhaul for its iPad and Mac apps, as Meta expands its new “Liquid Glass” interface beyond iOS devices.The messaging platform, which recently introduced broader access to the Liquid Glass design on iPhones, is now shifting attention to desktop and tablet versions. According to a report by WABetaInfo, the development team is actively working on integrating the same visual style into the macOS version of WhatsApp.Because WhatsApp uses a shared codebase across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, the redesign is expected to focus mainly on properly adapting and implementing the new interface elements across all platforms.The upcoming update is also said to include wider design improvements aimed at modernizing the Mac app and making it more consistent with the iPhone experience.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780489043366-sldw2o3zefc.jpeg" alt="Liquid Glass " data-credit="Liquid Glass " title="Liquid Glass " width="auto" height="auto"></div><h3>New Sidebar, Cleaner Navigation and Privacy Upgrade</h3>One of the most notable changes expected is a redesigned sidebar featuring expanded options and text labels alongside icons, replacing the current icon-only layout. While the chat list is expected to remain unchanged, the Liquid Glass design language will extend to key areas such as the chat bar and attachment menu.The update may also introduce a dedicated section for locked chats within the sidebar. This improvement is designed to close what WABetaInfo describes as a “privacy gap” between the Mac and iPhone versions, as iOS currently keeps locked chats protected behind Face ID in a separate section.<h3>Rollout Still Unconfirmed</h3>Although the feature has reportedly been spotted in development, it is not yet available for beta testers, and Meta has not officially confirmed the rollout timeline. The redesign is therefore still in progress, with no clear release date announced.If rolled out, the update would mark one of the biggest visual changes to WhatsApp’s desktop experience in recent years, bringing it closer in design and functionality to the mobile app.

WhatsApp to bring liquid glass design to Mac and iPad apps

From stolen trophies and midnight bites to the most famous headbutt in human history, the World Cup has never failed to deliver the utterly unbelievable.The World Cup does something to people. It strips away reason, scrambles logic, and turns even the most composed footballers on the planet into headline-generating chaos machines. Maybe it's the pressure. Maybe it's the spotlight. Maybe it's the sheer weight of carrying an entire nation's hopes on your shoulders for 90 minutes. Whatever it is, the beautiful game's biggest stage has consistently produced moments so wild, so unthinkable, so delightfully unhinged that no scriptwriter would dare put them in a film.In 96 years of World Cup football, we have witnessed a goalkeeper put a man in a coma and walk away without so much as a free kick. We have watched a living legend headbutt a defender in the final game of his career, on the grandest stage in sports. We have seen a country's best player bite an opponent not for the first time and somehow still look surprised when he got banned. We have watched Brazil, at home, concede seven goals to Germany in a semi-final while a billion people looked on in stunned silence.And somehow, it keeps getting madder.These are the 10 craziest moments in World Cup history—ranked, revisited, and every bit as unbelievable as the day they happened.1. Zidane's Headbutt—2006 Final<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780480771331-rwniahmkvn.webp" alt="Zinedine Zidane headbutts Marco Materazzi in the 2006 FIFA World Cup Final — the most iconic moment of madness in football history." data-credit="Zinedine Zidane headbutts Marco Materazzi in the 2006 FIFA World Cup Final — the most iconic moment of madness in football history. [Getty Images]" title="Zinedine Zidane headbutts Marco Materazzi in the 2006 FIFA World Cup Final — the most iconic moment of madness in football history." width="auto" height="auto"></div>The greatest of them all. Final game of his career, a World Cup final, and Zinedine Zidane, one of the best to ever play, floors Marco Materazzi with a headbutt because Materazzi made a remark about his sister. Jaws dropped worldwide. Nothing will ever top it.2. Maradona's Hand of God — 1986He punched the ball into the net with his hand; the referee gave it, and England was out. Then just four minutes later the same man scored arguably the greatest goal ever. The nerve. The audacity. The genius.3. Brazil 1-7 Germany—2014At home. In a World Cup semi-final. Four goals in six first-half minutes. An estimated billion people watching. David Luiz crying during the anthem before a ball was even kicked. Absolutely stunning to witness in real time.4. Schumacher Puts Battiston in a Coma—1982German goalkeeper Toni Schumacher launched himself into French defender Patrick Battiston with such force that Battiston was knocked unconscious, lost teeth, damaged his vertebrae, and slipped into a coma. The referee didn't even give a foul.5. Suarez Bites Chiellini—2014Not the first time Suarez used an opponent as a snack. He sank his teeth into Giorgio Chiellini's shoulder in a group stage game and earned himself a four-month ban. The man had a biting habit so well known that Google autocompletes "Suarez bites…" with multiple incidents.6. Roy Keane Walks Out — 2002Ireland's captain flew home from the World Cup before it even started over a training camp dispute with manager Mick McCarthy. Photos of him walking his dog became front-page international news. It was so mad; they recently made a film about it.7. Rijkaard Spits on Voller—In 1990Frank Rijkaard spat into Rudi Völler's curly mullet mid-match. Both were sent off. Then Rijkaard spat on him again as they walked off the pitch together. Absolutely rank. They later appeared together in a butter commercial, which somehow makes it madder.8. France Players Go on Strike—2010Nicolas Anelka reportedly told the manager where to go at half-time and got expelled from the squad, and his teammates responded by boycotting training in protest. They crashed out of the group stage anyway, getting beaten by South Africa. A complete and utter meltdown.9. The Actual World Cup Trophy Was Stolen—1966Three months before the tournament, someone nicked the Jules Rimet trophy from a public display in London. It was eventually found wrapped in newspaper under a hedge by a dog named Pickles. The dog was later invited to the England team's celebration dinner. Pickles, unquestionably, was the real hero of 1966.10. Three Yellow Cards, One Player — 2006Croatian defender Josip Simunic was shown two yellow cards during a group game against Australia and was somehow not sent off—because the referee forgot to write down the first booking. He was shown a third yellow immediately after the final whistle, followed by a very belated red. Referee Graham Poll later philosophically remarked that "you have to deal with the cards you've been dealt." Mate.

10 craziest moments in World Cup history - Ranked

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially released the academic calendar for Senior High Schools (SHSs) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTSs) for the 2026/2027 academic year.In a statement issued on June 1, 2026, GES announced that the calendar applies to both single-track and transitional schools, providing a comprehensive guide for school administrators, teachers, students, parents, and guardians as they prepare for the upcoming academic year.According to the approved schedule, Form One and Form Two students in Single Track schools are expected to report to school on September 18, 2026. The first semester will run until January 29, 2027, after which students will proceed on vacation.The second semester is scheduled to begin on March 30, 2027, and conclude on July 30, 2027.For Form Three students, the first semester will run from September 18 to December 18, 2026. The second semester will commence on February 1, 2027, and end on June 18, 2027, ahead of their completion of the academic year.GES also outlined separate arrangements for transitional schools, including schedules for face-to-face learning, online instruction, breaks, and vacation periods for all year groups.As part of the academic calendar, the Christmas break has been scheduled from December 19, 2026, to January 4, 2027, while the Easter break will be observed from March 25 to March 30, 2027.Additionally, Form Two students in transitional schools will enjoy a mid-semester break from June 17 to June 20, 2027.The service further confirmed that the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is expected to take place between April 6 and June 18, 2027.GES has urged all stakeholders, particularly school heads, teachers, parents, and students, to take note of the approved calendar and make the necessary preparations to ensure a smooth and successful academic year.The full 2026/2027 academic calendar is available for reference and implementation by all schools nationwide.<div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780472442879-1lmo0r0ay2u.webp" alt="GES Academic Calender" data-credit="GES Academic Calender" title="GES Academic Calender" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780472486548-cu5u9c0th9t.webp" alt="GES Academic Calender" data-credit="GES Academic Calender" title="GES Academic Calender" width="auto" height="auto"></div><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780472504988-j0kxbc84gff.webp" alt="GES Academic Calender" data-credit="GES Academic Calender" title="GES Academic Calender" width="auto" height="auto"></div>

GES releases 2026/2027 academic calendar - Full details

The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://www.ghnewsmedia.com/sports/wales-deny-ghana-victory-with-late-equaliser-in-cardiff-friendly">Black Stars of Ghana</a> were denied a late victory as Wales struck in the 93rd minute to secure a 1-1 draw in a pre-World Cup international friendly in Cardiff.Midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi gave Ghana the lead in the second half, finishing off a rebound created by a strong run from Ernest Nuamah. However, substitute Charlie Koumas equalised deep into stoppage time to rescue a draw for the hosts.Wales started strongly, dominating possession and creating early chances, with Lawrence Ati-Zigi producing key saves while another effort struck the crossbar. Ghana also posed a threat through Jordan Ayew, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku in a competitive opening spell.After the break, Ghana grew into the game and eventually took the lead through Yirenkyi, capitalising on sustained pressure. The Black Stars appeared set to claim victory, but late Welsh pressure changed the outcome in stoppage time.Brandon Thomas-Asante missed a late counterattack opportunity before Wales found the equaliser in the 93rd minute to end the match 1-1.<h3>Black Stars Player Ratings (vs Wales)</h3><table style="min-width: 50px;"><colgroup><col style="min-width: 25px;"><col style="min-width: 25px;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Player</th><th colspan="1" rowspan="1">Rating</th></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Lawrence Ati-Zigi</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">7/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Caleb Yirenkyi</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">7.5/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Gideon Mensah</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">7/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Jonas Adjetey</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">7/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Marvin Senaya</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">7/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Jerome Opoku</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">5/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Fatawu Issahaku</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">5/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Jordan Ayew</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">5/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Benjamin Asare</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">5/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Kwasi Sibo</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">5/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Elisha Owusu</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">5/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Kamaldeen Sulemana</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thomas Partey</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Brandon Thomas-Asante</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Prince Kwabena Adu</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Christopher Bonsu Baah</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Abdul Mumin</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Alidu Seidu</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Inaki Williams</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">4/10</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Baba Rahman</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">3/10</td></tr></tbody></table>

Black Stars player ratings vs Wales: Baba Rahman 3/10, Jonas Adjetey 7, Yirenkyi 7.5

The Black Stars of Ghana were denied a famous victory as Wales struck deep into stoppage time to secure a 1-1 draw in a pre-World Cup international friendly in Cardiff on Tuesday night, as preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Ghana had looked on course for an impressive win after teenage midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi put the visitors ahead in the second half, but substitute Charlie Koumas struck in the 93rd minute to salvage a draw for the hosts.<h3>Wales dominate early; Ghana withstand pressure.</h3>Wales started on the brighter side, controlling possession and dictating the tempo in the opening stages. Ghana needed time to settle, though Abdul Fatawu Issahaku provided the first shot of the game in the fifth minute, which was comfortably blocked.The hosts came close on several occasions, forcing Lawrence Ati-Zigi into a sharp save, while another Welsh effort rattled the crossbar as Ghana survived sustained pressure.Despite Wales’ dominance, the Black Stars created their own chances. A long pass from Elisha Owusu released Issahaku, who set up Jordan Ayew, but the captain failed to keep his effort on target. Ayew was again presented with a clear opportunity in the 27th minute after a defensive lapse but could not convert.Kamaldeen Sulemana tested Karl Darlow with a powerful effort from distance, while Marvin Senaya nearly broke the deadlock with a deflected strike that forced another save from the Welsh goalkeeper.<h3>Ghana takes control after the break.</h3>The Black Stars returned from halftime with greater intensity, controlling possession and pushing Wales deeper into their own half. However, they were nearly punished in the 55th minute when a dangerous Welsh attack narrowly missed the target.Ghana continued to threaten, with Jonas Adjetey heading over from a Jordan Ayew delivery just after the hour mark.The breakthrough eventually arrived through Ernest Nuamah, who drove through midfield before unleashing a shot that rebounded into the path of Caleb Yirenkyi. The youngster reacted quickly to fire home and give Ghana a deserved lead.<h3>Late heartbreak in Cardiff</h3>Wales pushed for an equaliser as the clock ran down, with Ghana’s defence holding firm under pressure. Nico Williams came close with a header, while Brandon Thomas-Asante failed to convert a promising counterattack that could have sealed the game.However, just as victory seemed secured, Wales struck in the 93rd minute. Koumas found space inside the box and calmly finished to level the score at 1-1.<h3>Positive signs despite late setback</h3>While Ghana will be frustrated to concede so late, the performance offered encouraging signs ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Black Stars showed resilience, attacking intent, and growing cohesion under pressure as they continue their build-up to the tournament in North America.

Wales deny Ghana victory with late equaliser in Cardiff friendly

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has named his final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.The announcement comes with a notable absence — veteran forward Andre Ayew has been dropped from the final squad, marking a potential end to his World Cup journey with the Black Stars.The squad is as follows:Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Benjamin Asare, Joseph AnangDefenders: Gideon Mensah, Derrick Luckassen, Alidu Seidu, Marvin Senaya, Jonas Adjetey, Abdul Mumin, Baba Rahman, Jerome Opoku, Kojo Peprah OppongMidfielders: Caleb Yirenkyi, Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Elisha Owusu, Augustine Boakye, Fatawu IssahakuForwards: Brandon Thomas Asante, Prince Kwabena Adu, Christopher Bonsu Baah, Inaki Williams, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew, Ernest Nuamah

Ayew out as Carlos Queiroz names 26-man Ghana squad for World Cup

Fuel prices across Ghana have increased as major Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) including GOIL, Shell, Star Oil, and TotalEnergies implement new price adjustments for the first pricing window of June.The upward review has been driven by rising global crude oil prices and the continued depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi, which has increased the cost of importing petroleum products into the country.<h3>Star Oil Leads Price Adjustments</h3>Star Oil has revised its fuel prices, increasing petrol from GH¢14.60 per litre in late May to GH¢15.20 per litre, representing a 60-pesewa (4.1%) increase.Its Ron 95 petrol also rose from GH¢15.49 to GH¢15.77 per litre. However, diesel remains unchanged at GH¢15.81 per litre.<h3>GOIL Adjusts Petrol, Cuts Diesel Slightly</h3>At GOIL stations, petrol now sells at GH¢15.20 per litre, up from GH¢14.60, reflecting a similar 60-pesewa increase.Interestingly, GOIL reduced its Diesel XP price slightly from GH¢16.66 to GH¢16.50 per litre, marking a marginal decline.<h3>Shell and TotalEnergies Also Increase Prices</h3>Shell has raised petrol prices from GH¢14.99 to GH¢15.60 per litre, while diesel remains unchanged at GH¢16.99 per litre.TotalEnergies has also increased petrol prices to GH¢15.60 per litre from GH¢14.99, with diesel rising slightly from GH¢16.95 to GH¢16.99 per litre.<h3>Market Pressure and NPA Pricing Window</h3>The price adjustments reflect ongoing volatility in the global petroleum market, where refined product prices have climbed in recent weeks.The weakening cedi has further intensified import costs, forcing OMCs to adjust pump prices upward.For the first pricing window of June, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has set indicative benchmarks at GH¢15.20 per litre for petrol, GH¢15.49 for diesel, and GH¢13.48 per kilogram for LPG.More fuel price changes are expected in the coming days as additional OMCs review their pricing structures.

Fuel prices go up - See latest prices for the month of June

Ghana’s Black Stars have suffered a major setback ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after head coach Carlos Queiroz confirmed that experienced defender Alexander Djiku will miss the tournament due to injury.Djiku was initially named in Ghana’s 28-man provisional squad and was expected to play a key role in strengthening the team’s defence. However, concerns about his fitness emerged after he arrived in camp in Cardiff carrying an injury picked up during Spartak Moscow’s Russian Cup final against FC Krasnodar, where he was substituted before his team won on penalties.Since joining the Black Stars camp, the 28-year-old has been unable to take part in full training sessions, with medical assessments confirming he would not recover in time for the tournament.As a result, Ghana has decided to rule him out to avoid aggravating the injury. Pafos FC defender Derrick Luckassen has been called up as his replacement to reinforce the squad.Ghana is in Group L and will face Panama on June 17, England on June 23, and Croatia on June 27 in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Confirmed: Alexander Djiku ruled out of Ghana World Cup Squad

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has published a list of 70 tertiary institutions across the world whose certificates are not currently recognised in Ghana, citing concerns over accreditation and quality assurance standards.The Commission warned that qualifications obtained from these institutions may not be accepted for employment, professional licensing, or further academic studies in Ghana.In a notice issued on May 28, 2026, GTEC stated that the listed institutions remain unrecognised as of the latest review, urging the public to verify accreditation status before enrolling.The affected institutions are spread across the United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland, India, Ghana, Nigeria, France, Italy, Mexico, Liberia, Zambia, and other countries.<h2>Full List of the 70 Unrecognised Institutions</h2>Below is the complete list released by GTEC:<ol><li>Universidad Azteca (Mexico)</li><li>Indian School of Management and Studies (India)</li><li>Breyer State Theology University (USA)</li><li>Debest College of Science, Arts and Business (Ghana)</li><li>Osiri University (USA)</li><li>Atlantic International University (USA)</li><li>Faith University Seminary (Ghana)</li><li>Christian University College Monrovia (Liberia)</li><li>Rhema Bible Training College (USA)</li><li>Universidad Empresarial de Costa Rica (Costa Rica)</li><li>Selinus University of Sciences and Literature (Italy)</li><li>Crown University International Chartered (USA)</li><li>Monarch Business School (Switzerland)</li><li>City University (Cambodia)</li><li>Kesmond International University (USA)</li><li>Washington University of Barbados (Barbados)</li><li>London Academy of Technology and Management (UK)</li><li>IICSE University (USA)</li><li>Doxa Open University (Ghana)</li><li>Brandeis University (USA)</li><li>University of Haana (Germany)</li><li>Christian Leadership University (USA)</li><li>International Institute of Church Management Inc. (USA)</li><li>Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Training School (Ghana)</li><li>Louisiana Baptist University &amp; Seminary (USA)</li><li>Tech Global University (Andorra)</li><li>International Christian University (Nigeria)</li><li>LIGS University (USA)</li><li>Swiss Management Centre University (Switzerland)</li><li>Quest International University (Ghana)</li><li>Isles International University (Ireland)</li><li>Kingsnow University (USA)</li><li>New Life Bible College and Seminary (USA)</li><li>East Bridge University (France)</li><li>Texila American University (Guyana)</li><li>Vision International University (USA)</li><li>Keisie International University (USA)</li><li>Dublin Metropolitan University (UK/Cyprus)</li><li>Logos University (USA)</li><li>University of America (USA)</li><li>Kazian School of Management (India)</li><li>University of Northwest (USA)</li><li>Akamai University (USA)</li><li>Trinity Graduate School of Apologetics and Theology (India)</li><li>American Bible University (USA)</li><li>California Creek University (USA)</li><li>Delta International University (USA)</li><li>National Institute of Business Management (India)</li><li>Southern California International University (USA)</li><li>CASS European Institute of Management Studies (France)</li><li>Quetzalcoatl University of Veracruz (Mexico)</li><li>Swiss International Management Academy (Switzerland)</li><li>IIBM Institute of Management (India)</li><li>Dunster Business School (Switzerland)</li><li>World Academy for Research and Development (UK)</li><li>American Management University (USA)</li><li>All Nations Church International University (USA/Texas)</li><li>Freedom University and Theological Seminary (USA)</li><li>Global Theological University (USA)</li><li>Jorasome International University (Zambia)</li><li>Kingdom Living Bible Institute (Ghana)</li><li>Global Professional College (Ghana)</li><li>London School of Management and Technology (UK)</li><li>European Institute of Management and Technology (Switzerland)</li><li>Volta University College (Ghana/Nigeria)</li><li>United Nigeria University College (Nigeria)</li><li>Open International University (Nigeria)</li><li>Marquis Open University (Italy)</li><li>Alliance International University (Zambia)</li><li>All Saints American University (Liberia)</li></ol><div class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm border border-gray-200 my-4"><div class="relative w-full" style="padding-bottom: 50%;"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.facebook.com%2Fgtecofficial%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02vYHtyVAUmFA53XEUwqSAZbspAGjdSvTvi3dh2w6pTFNwTLjHm8H7psAQXbydcXKMl&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=500" width="500" height="250" title="Embedded content" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" class="absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full rounded-lg border border-gray-200 shadow-sm"></iframe></div><div class="mt-2 text-xs text-gray-500 text-center">Embedded content from: www.facebook.com</div></div>

Full list of 70 unrecognised universities released by GTEC

The Black Stars of Ghana will take on Wales on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, in an international friendly at the Cardiff City Stadium as part of their preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.The match will mark the first time newly appointed Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz takes charge of the national team since his appointment, providing him with an opportunity to assess his squad ahead of football's biggest tournament.Ghana will be making their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup, having previously featured in the 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022 editions. With the Mundial fast approaching, the friendly against Wales offers the Black Stars a valuable test against quality opposition.Ahead of the encounter, Pulse Ghana Sports takes a look at how the Black Stars could line up against Wales.<h2>Goalkeeper</h2>Five goalkeepers are currently in camp, but only three are expected to make Ghana's final FIFA World Cup squad. Benjamin Asare is likely to retain his place between the posts against Wales, with Queiroz expected to give the Hearts of Oak shot-stopper another opportunity to cement his position as Ghana's first-choice goalkeeper ahead of the tournament.<h2>Defense</h2>There are concerns over the fitness of experienced defender Alexander Djiku, who is reportedly not fully fit and could be rested for the game.In a four-man defensive setup, Marvin Senaya and Abdul Mumin are expected to form the central defensive partnership. On the flanks, Baba Rahman could start at left-back, while Alidu Seidu is tipped to occupy the right-back position.<h3>Predicted Defense:</h3>Baba Rahman – Abdul Mumin – Marvin Senaya – Alidu Seidu<h2>Midfield</h2>Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is expected to marshal the midfield for the Black Stars. He could be partnered by Kwesi Sibo in a double-pivot role, providing defensive stability and helping shield the backline.Out wide, exciting winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku is likely to start on one flank, with Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo operating on the opposite wing to provide pace, creativity, and attacking threat.<h3>Predicted Midfield:</h3>Abdul Fatawu Issahaku – Thomas Partey – Kwesi Sibo – Antoine Semenyo<h2>Attack</h2>Captain Jordan Ayew is expected to lead the attack alongside Prince Kwabena Adu in a 4-4-2 formation. The duo will be tasked with spearheading Ghana's offensive play as the Black Stars seek to build momentum heading into the World Cup.The Wales clash is expected to be a key assessment for Queiroz before Ghana's final preparatory fixture on June 10, after which the team will shift its full focus to the FIFA World Cup campaign.<h3>Predicted Attack:</h3>Jordan Ayew – Prince Kwabena Adu<h2>Ghana's Predicted Starting XI vs Wales (4-4-2)</h2>Benjamin Asare; Alidu Seidu, Marvin Senaya, Abdul Mumin, Baba Rahman; Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Thomas Partey, Kwesi Sibo, Antoine Semenyo; Jordan Ayew (C), Prince Kwabena Adu.The friendly against Wales will provide Carlos Queiroz with an early opportunity to implement his philosophy, assess player combinations, and fine-tune his squad before Ghana begins its quest for World Cup success.

How Black Stars could line up against Wales

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) will begin processing Ghana’s own crude oil in June 2026, marking a major step toward local value addition and reduced dependence on imported refined petroleum products.Speaking at a diaspora town hall meeting in London on Sunday, May 31, 2026, the President said the initiative is part of efforts to ensure Ghana derives maximum benefit from its natural resources by processing them domestically rather than exporting raw materials.He explained that a shipment of crude oil from Ghana’s offshore fields will be delivered to TOR in June for refining, describing the move as a revival of an earlier policy implemented during his previous administration.President Mahama noted that Ghana continues to export raw resources such as gold, bauxite, and manganese, only to import finished goods at higher cost, a practice he said limits job creation and economic growth within the country.In the energy sector, he revealed that the government inherited an estimated US$1.5 billion debt when it assumed office, alongside challenges linked to depleted financial guarantees for gas supply arrangements.He also mentioned that a US$500 million World Bank Partial Risk Guarantee, which helps pay ENI and its partners for gas from the Sankofa Field, has been fully restored thanks to the teamwork of the Ministries of Energy and Finance.According to him, this restoration has strengthened Ghana’s gas supply arrangements and improved power generation stability across the country.In addition, President Mahama announced new investment commitments in the upstream petroleum sector, including a US$2 billion investment by Jubilee Field partners for additional offshore drilling to boost oil and gas production.He also confirmed that ENI will invest a further US$1.5 billion in the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) project to expand output.Touching on the power sector, the president said the government has refinanced approximately US$1.5 billion in debts owed to independent power producers (IPPs) and established structured repayment plans to ensure stability in electricity supply.He added that consistent payments have helped stabilize the energy sector, improve investor confidence, and support reliable power generation nationwide.

Tema oil refinery to process Ghanaian crude in June 2026 - Mahama

Meta is doubling down on its subscription offerings. On Wednesday, the social networking giant announced it’s now rolling out its consumer subscription plans globally for its flagship apps, Instagram, Facebook, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://www.ghnewsmedia.com/tech/whatsapp-launches-total-private-conversations-with-its-ai-chatbot">WhatsApp</a>, and it's beginning tests of new subscriptions for businesses, creators, and Meta AI users.For a few dollars per month, consumers subscribing to Instagram Plus ($3.99/mo), Facebook Plus ($3.99/mo), or WhatsApp Plus ($2.99/mo) will gain access to extra features, like profile customization, super reactions, and story insights, among other things.In an announcement, Meta’s head of product, Naomi Gleit, noted that “more fun features” will be added in the future.Meanwhile, Meta will begin testing other offerings, including professional plans for creators and businesses and AI-focused plans for all users. These new tests will be branded as “Meta One,” which will serve as the company’s home for its subscription offerings going forward.<h2>Plus, plans don’t replace Meta Verified.</h2><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780269666665-xjiawic9yd9.webp" alt=" Image Credits:Jens Büttner/picture alliance (opens in a new window)/ Getty Images" data-credit=" Image Credits:Jens Büttner/picture alliance (opens in a new window)/ Getty Images" title=" Image Credits:Jens Büttner/picture alliance (opens in a new window)/ Getty Images" width="auto" height="auto"></div>Meta confirmed it was planning a subscription offering earlier this year, with its initial tests rolling out in the spring. The idea behind the plans aimed at consumers is to provide additional features for power users who want more from their social apps. It also allows Meta to diversify its revenue streams beyond advertising by extracting more value from its existing audience of billions, given the limited growth opportunities for these apps, which have already achieved global saturation.The new “Plus” plans are tailored to each individual app, with Facebook Plus and Instagram Plus focused more on social expression, while WhatsApp Plus focuses on personalization and messaging.However, the company tells us the new plans don’t replace its existing offering, Meta Verified, which is focused on verification, impersonation protection, and extra support. (This could change in time, but for now, Meta is not winding down the older plans.)For starters, the new Instagram Plus plan gives subscribers access to extra features, like the ability to see how many people have rewatched your Story in aggregate, as well as the ability to create unlimited audience lists for Stories, beyond the “Close Friends” option. Users will also be able to spotlight a story once a week for additional views, extend a story beyond 24 hours, preview a story without showing up as a viewer, search their story viewer list to see who is watching, and more. Users will also be able to post straight to their profile and highlight without showing up on their followers’ feeds.There are also other features like Super Heart animated reactions for Stories, custom app icons, customizable fonts for profile bios, and access to additional pins for your profile.These features are designed to better serve creators and those looking to grow their following and understand their audience, but they could also appeal to heavy users.Facebook Plus offers a similar set of features to Instagram Plus. WhatsApp Plus, however, offers other features, like app themes, custom ringtones, additional pinned chats, list customization, premium stickers, and more.<h2>AI plans and more, including those for creators and businesses</h2><div class="my-4"><img class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm" src="https://srmshbfmongacwhafkly.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/article-images/1780269787516-djnb3mn80vg.webp" alt="07 March 2026, Bavaria, Munich: The logo of the Meta AI app can be seen on the display of a smartphone on March 7, 2026, while a finger taps on the application's icon. Meta AI is an AI-supported virtual assistant (artificial intelligence, chatbot, large language model, LLM) developed by Meta Platforms Inc. and integrated into apps such as WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook to assist users with various tasks. (company, pointing finger, icon, symbol image, symbol photo, illustration, symbolic photo, illustrative photo, theme image, general image, theme photo) Photo: Matthias Balk/dpa (Photo by Matthias Balk/picture alliance via Getty Images) Image Credits:picture alliance / Contributor (opens in a new window)/ Getty Images" data-credit="07 March 2026, Bavaria, Munich: The logo of the Meta AI app can be seen on the display of a smartphone on March 7, 2026, while a finger taps on the application's icon. Meta AI is an AI-supported virtual assistant (artificial intelligence, chatbot, large language model, LLM) developed by Meta Platforms Inc. and integrated into apps such as WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook to assist users with various tasks. (company, pointing finger, icon, symbol image, symbol photo, illustration, symbolic photo, illustrative photo, theme image, general image, theme photo) Photo: Matthias Balk/dpa (Photo by Matthias Balk/picture alliance via Getty Images) Image Credits:picture alliance / Contributor (opens in a new window)/ Getty Images" title="07 March 2026, Bavaria, Munich: The logo of the Meta AI app can be seen on the display of a smartphone on March 7, 2026, while a finger taps on the application's icon. Meta AI is an AI-supported virtual assistant (artificial intelligence, chatbot, large language model, LLM) developed by Meta Platforms Inc. and integrated into apps such as WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook to assist users with various tasks. (company, pointing finger, icon, symbol image, symbol photo, illustration, symbolic photo, illustrative photo, theme image, general image, theme photo) Photo: Matthias Balk/dpa (Photo by Matthias Balk/picture alliance via Getty Images) Image Credits:picture alliance / Contributor (opens in a new window)/ Getty Images" width="auto" height="auto"></div>Alongside the launch, Meta says it will begin testing even more subscription plans, which is where things start to get confusing.For Meta AI users, it will test two plans—Meta One Plus ($7.99/mo) and Meta One Premium ($19.99/mo)—with the same features, but the Premium plan unlocks more capacity on higher compute queries. That means the Premium plan would offer deeper reasoning for complex tasks (i.e., more of “thinking mode” in the Meta AI app or on the web). It would also offer more video and image-generation capabilities across Meta’s apps.Meta AI will remain free for more casual users, but these plans follow the same path as those put forth by other AI model providers that charge for additional compute and heavier usage. The plans will later expand in the weeks to come with more benefits for those who use AI glasses, Meta says.The AI plans will start testing next month, initially in Singapore, Guatemala, and Bolivia.Two other plans for creators and businesses will begin tests later this week in markets including Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Thailand, and Bangladesh.The Meta One Essential plan ($14.99/mo) will offer the Verified badge, impersonation protection, and an enhanced linksheet where users can link out to their online presence across social channels and the web, similar to Meta Verified.The more expensive Meta One Advanced plan ($49.99/mo) will include the Essential plan benefits, as well as the ability to be featured in the Facebook feed, appear higher in Facebook and Instagram search results, gain attention with a bold “Follow” button on Reels, and automatically send “follow” invitations to people who engage with your content.It can also help creators and businesses drive people to their website or shop through links in Instagram posts and Instagram Reels and through enhanced Facebook and Instagram profiles with their expanded linksheets. These plans, not surprisingly, include better analytics, including deeper, competitive insights on Instagram and custom audience insights on Facebook.Advanced plan subscribers will have access to optimized scheduling tools, tools to share access with other account moderators (without sharing a password), and notifications that alert you when others on Facebook or Instagram reuse your content so you can request a label crediting your original reel.Gleit acknowledged that Meta is still experimenting with these AI and professional plans for the time being but aims to bring them all together under Meta One, where they will then continue to be updated and expanded.Source: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline" href="https://techcrunch.com/2026/05/27/meta-officially-launches-instagram-facebook-and-whatsapp-subscriptions-with-more-to-come-including-ai-plans/">Techcrunch</a>

Meta launches paid subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook & WhatsApp

The family of Ghanaian actress Beverly Afaglo has officially announced arrangements for her final funeral rites, confirming details for her burial ceremony scheduled for Friday, August 7, 2026, at the Lashibi Funeral Home.The announcement was made during her one-week observation ceremony held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Green Flavour Events Centre in Community 9, Tema. The solemn gathering attracted a large number of family members, friends, and colleagues from the Ghanaian entertainment industry who came to pay their respects.<h2>Emotional One-Week Observation Draws Industry Support</h2>The event was marked by deep emotion as mourners reflected on the life and legacy of the late actress. Many attendees were visibly moved as tributes were shared in her honour, highlighting her impact on Ghana’s film and entertainment space.<h2>Cause of Death and Health Battle</h2>News of Beverly Afaglo’s passing was first confirmed by her husband, Eugene Baah, popularly known as the choirmaster of the music group Praye, who announced her death in a heartfelt Instagram post on Sunday, May 24, 2026.Her manager, Abu Iddris, later revealed that the actress had been battling cancer for two years prior to her death. Additionally, an earlier video of Beverly Afaglo has resurfaced in which she spoke openly about a hereditary cancer condition within her family.<h2>Final Burial Details Confirmed</h2>The family has now set August 7, 2026, as the date for her final burial rites, which will take place at the Lashibi Funeral Home.Further details regarding the full funeral programme are expected to be communicated by the family in the coming days.

Beverly Afaglo funeral set for August 7, 2026

Nations FC have secured their first-ever MTN FA Cup title after edging Dreams FC 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in a tense final played at the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon on Sunday.The victory marks a historic milestone for Nations FC, who not only lift the trophy for the first time but also earn qualification to next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.The final began at a high tempo, with Nations FC breaking the deadlock in the 31st minute. Joseph Effah rose highest inside the penalty area to head home after a well-delivered long throw sparked a chaotic aerial battle in the box.Dreams FC responded quickly and restored parity through Abdul Razak Salifu, who finished clinically with a powerful header after a well-worked attacking move and precise delivery from the flank.Salifu’s goal took his tally to six in the competition, moving him to the top of the FA Cup scoring chart and strengthening his push for the Golden Boot award.After the equalizer, both sides created chances but failed to find a breakthrough in regulation time. Defenses held firm, and the match gradually became a tactical battle with limited clear-cut opportunities.With neither team able to break the deadlock, the final headed into a penalty shootout to determine the 2026 MTN FA Cup champion.In a tense shootout, Nations FC showed composure under pressure, converting five of their penalties to clinch a 5-4 victory.The win triggered jubilant celebrations as Nations FC players and supporters celebrated a landmark achievement in the club’s history.For Dreams FC, the defeat is a bitter disappointment as they miss out on a second FA Cup triumph, having previously won the competition in 2023.Despite a strong performance throughout the tournament, they fell just short at the final hurdle.<div class="max-w-full h-auto rounded-lg shadow-sm border border-gray-200 my-4"><div class="relative w-full" style="padding-bottom: 56.0714%;"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.facebook.com%2Freel%2F986119060562710%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=560&amp;t=0" width="560" height="314" title="Embedded content" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" class="absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full rounded-lg border border-gray-200 shadow-sm"></iframe></div><div class="mt-2 text-xs text-gray-500 text-center">Embedded content from: www.facebook.com</div></div><h2>Historic Boost After Difficult Season for Nations FC</h2>The FA Cup triumph provides a major lift for Nations FC following a difficult Ghana Premier League campaign that ended in relegation.The club will now shift focus to continental football in the CAF Confederation Cup while also targeting an immediate return to the top flight.<h3></h3>

Nations FC beat Dreams FC to win first-ever FA Cup

Ghana’s Sports and Recreation Minister, Kofi Adams, has confirmed that each member of the Black Stars squad selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will receive an appearance fee of $100,000.The minister made the announcement during an interview with TV3, putting to rest ongoing discussions about a possible revision of the payment structure ahead of the global tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.According to Adams, the government opted to maintain the existing fee despite debates triggered by the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against major foreign currencies."The appearance fee for the Black Stars players has been pegged at $100,000 per player," Adams said."Some said that because the cedi had become stronger, we should increase it, but we said no. Because if the cedi had become weaker, would you have said that we should reduce the dollar equivalent so it gives you the same cedi amount? You would not say so."World Cup appearance fees for Black Stars players have steadily increased over the years. The figure rose from $50,000 at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany to about $82,500 at the 2010 tournament in South Africa, before reaching $100,000 at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.The amount remained unchanged for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and has once again been maintained for the 2026 edition.The announcement comes as the Black Stars intensify preparations in a training camp in Cardiff, Wales, ahead of the tournament.A 28-man squad is currently in camp, but only 26 players will make the final team for the World Cup, meaning two players will be dropped before the official submission deadline on Monday, June 1.Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia.The Black Stars will open their World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17, before facing England and Croatia in their remaining group-stage matches.<h3></h3>

Woman and 2 children found dead in Dome floodwaters after heavy Accra rains

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