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The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has announced plans to hold a National Memorial Mass in honour of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. In a statement signed by the President of the GCBC and Bishop of Sunyani, Most Reverend Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, the Conference expressed deep sorrow at the passing of the 266th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. The statement invited all bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful in Ghana to join in prayer for the peaceful repose of the late Pope. Pope Francis, known for his humility, advocacy for the poor, and commitment to interfaith dialogue, died in the early hours of Monday after a prolonged period of ill health. He had recently spent 38 days in hospital between February and March 2025. To honour his memory, the GCBC announced a series of nationwide spiritual observances. These include a National Memorial Mass, the date of which will be communicated in due course. All members of the Church in Ghana will be encouraged to attend this solemn liturgy. In addition, dioceses, parishes, and Catholic institutions across the country are urged to organize local Requiem Masses, Holy Hours, and prayer services. The GCBC also encouraged schools, seminaries, and youth groups to host talks and discussions reflecting on Pope Francis' teachings and enduring legacy. "These should be moments of prayerful reflection on his teachings and witness,” the statement emphasized. The GCBC further called on all Catholics to pray for the global Church as it prepares to elect a new Pope. “May the Lord, whom he served so faithfully and joyfully, welcome him into the eternal joy of His heavenly kingdom,” the statement concluded. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, served as head of the Roman Catholic Church from 2013 until his death in 2025. His pontificate was defined by simplicity, compassion, and a strong commitment to social justice and environmental stewardship. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has revoked the lease of Akonta Mining Company Ltd following revelations of illegal mining operations within protected forest reserves in the Western North Region. At a press briefing in Accra on April 21, the Minister described the company’s actions as part of a “well-organized criminal syndicate” that had brazenly defied mining regulations. Though Akonta Mining was originally licensed to operate outside forest reserves, it is alleged to have illegally encroached on the Aboi Forest Reserve near Samreboi, selling access to concessions for GHC 300,000 and collecting 250 grams of gold weekly as royalties from illegal miners. The syndicate is believed to have enjoyed protection from compromised forestry officers and security personnel, who allegedly received bribes to turn a blind eye to the environmental destruction and unauthorized mining. A 12-hour intelligence-led operation carried out on Good Friday resulted in the arrest of 51 suspects, including eight Chinese nationals. Authorities also seized 30 excavators, weapons, vehicles, and other mining equipment. In response, the Minister announced the immediate revocation of Akonta’s lease, the interdiction of the implicated forestry officials, and the initiation of investigations by national security agencies and the Attorney-General’s Department. In a related crackdown, the Ghana Police Service has intensified its anti-galamsey campaign in the region. A separate raid in the Tano Nimri forest and along the Tano River led to the arrest of 21 additional individuals engaged in illegal mining. This brings the total number of arrests linked to operations in the Samreboi area to 47, comprising 39 Ghanaians, eight Chinese nationals, and four Ghanaian women. Seized equipment includes 17 excavators and a bulldozer, as law enforcement agencies continue their efforts to dismantle illegal mining networks in the area. The first group of 26 suspects has already been transported to Accra to face prosecution. The government’s decisive action against Akonta Mining and the broader galamsey network signals a renewed commitment to protecting Ghana’s forests and water bodies. Authorities hope these efforts will serve as a strong deterrent and a turning point in the fight against illegal mining. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Kumasi Asante Kotoko have officially parted ways with head coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum following a string of underwhelming performances that have seen the club slip from the top of the Ghana Premier League table to fourth place. The decision, announced on Monday, comes on the heels of heavy defeats to Accra Lions and Nations FC—results that intensified pressure on the technical bench. With just six matches left in the league and a crucial MTN FA Cup semi-final against Berekum Chelsea on the horizon, the club’s Interim Management Committee opted for a change in leadership to revive their season. Dr. Ogum, who guided Kotoko to a league title in the 2021/22 season during his first stint, returned to the club in 2024 amid high expectations. However, despite flashes of brilliance, consistency proved elusive. This season, the team recorded 13 wins, 8 draws, and 7 losses in 28 league games. In a statement, the club said the decision followed “constructive discussions” and was made “in the best interest of the club.” They thanked Ogum for his dedication and service, and wished him well in his future endeavors. The Porcupine Warriors have called for calm among fans as they navigate this transitional period, promising updates in the coming days as they set their sights on a strong finish to the season. Dr. Ogum’s exit marks the end of a significant chapter and the beginning of another as Kotoko aim to reignite their title ambitions and reclaim their dominant stature in Ghanaian football. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a revered global figure known for his humility and reformist vision, has died aged 88, the Vatican has announced. He passed away peacefully at 07:35 local time on Easter Monday, just a day after addressing thousands of worshippers in St Peter’s Square with an Easter message of hope. His death has sent waves of grief across the world, with mourners flooding St Peter’s Square in Rome and tributes pouring in from leaders worldwide. King Charles said the Pope "profoundly touched the lives of so many," while South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed his humility and commitment to a better world. Recently discharged from hospital following five weeks of treatment for an infection, Pope Francis’s passing sets in motion the ancient papal succession process to elect his successor. The Vatican is now the center of global attention, as Catholics and non-Catholics alike reflect on the legacy of a pope who sought to bring compassion, dialogue, and justice to the forefront of the modern Church. Story by: Think News Online Newsroom

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, has called for the introduction of levies on producers and manufacturers of single-use plastics, describing the growing plastic waste crisis as a national emergency with devastating environmental and health consequences. The Ga Mantse made this passionate appeal on Wednesday during a courtesy call by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, at the Ga Mantse Palace in Accra. The visit formed part of the Ministry’s broader sanitation sensitization tour ahead of the national reintroduction of the National Sanitation Day. Addressing the Minister and his delegation, the King expressed deep concern over the scale and impact of plastic pollution in the country. “Forty companies are producing single-use plastics in Ghana, yet only 20% of what is produced is recycled. So where does the other 80% go?” the King questioned. “Just one meal of kenkey can generate up to nine plastic bags. This culture is not sustainable.” King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II emphasized that plastic waste is choking Ghana’s land and waters, citing disturbing instances of plastic-filled seas, declining fish stock, and infertile farmlands due to non-biodegradable waste. He also referenced a recent news report highlighting how used clothing and fashion waste—locally known as Obroniwewu—were also ending up in the oceans, compounding the ecological damage. The King strongly advocated for policy reforms and legal enforcement. "We must levy the producers of single-use plastics. It is coming at a very high cost to our environment, our health, and our future,” he stated. He further condemned the current location of waste processing sites, especially Agbogbloshie, calling it “the most toxic spot on earth” due to the uncontrolled burning of electronic waste at the heart of the city. "Why should we recycle e-waste or compost in the center of Accra? This must stop,” he declared. The King reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Ministry’s sanitation initiatives, citing the success of last year’s Pre-Homowo Cleanup Exercise where traditional leaders led enforcement efforts on the streets. He proposed a formal framework that would empower Asafoatsemei (local warriors and leaders) to enforce sanitation bylaws in communities. Minister Ahmed Ibrahim welcomed the support of the Ga Mantse and assured him of the government’s determination to tackle sanitation holistically—combining policy, enforcement, and grassroots mobilization. As Ghana gears up for the full revival of the National Sanitation Day campaign, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II’s call to hold producers accountable is expected to spark national conversation around plastic pollution, responsibility, and sustainable environmental governance. On his part, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim announced a pivot toward outdoor initiatives — the most pressing of which is the reintroduction of National Sanitation Day, a flagship program promised by the President to commence within 120 days of taking office. Originally scheduled for April 4th, the launch was delayed on presidential advice. “His Excellency reminded us that sanitation is not just a manifesto promise. It’s a matter of national health, security, and survival,” Hon. Ibrahim revealed. Referring to recent cholera outbreaks in Ada, Kasoa, and Kikus, which have affected 58 districts, the Minister described the situation as an existential threat. “Poor sanitation is not just affecting our urban centers, it’s poisoning our waters, crippling agriculture, and killing marine life.” “Our fishermen now catch more plastic than fish. Our farmers’ yields are dropping because non-degradable plastic in the soil blocks plant roots from penetrating. We are doing much but reaping little,” he lamented. In response to these growing threats, the President directed the Ministry to begin a comprehensive national sensitization campaign by first seeking the support of traditional, religious, and spiritual leaders — those described by Hon. Ibrahim as “the movers and shakers of our society.” That directive brought the Minister and his team to the Ga Mantse Palace. He emphasized that national healing and transformation must begin with respect for the land and its custodians. "We came here because you are the pillar. You are the guardian of this land. Without your leadership, this mission cannot succeed.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The newly appointed Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (ESQ), has paid a courtesy call on His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse at his palace, seeking royal blessings and forging stronger ties with the Ga State. During the visit, Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie introduced herself formally to the Ga Mantse and expressed her deep appreciation for the rich history and support the Ga State continues to offer the Ghana Prisons Service. “I come before you today to submit myself to your kingdom and to ask for your blessings as I take up this new role,” she said. With over 37 years of service in the Ghana Prisons Service, Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie recalled her beginnings at the now-closed James Fort Prison in Accra. She used the occasion to propose a bold vision—transforming the historic James Fort into a heritage and educational centre that tells the story of the Ghana Prisons Service to the world. “James Fort and Ussher Fort have housed some of the most prominent individuals in our history. We have the records, the history, and the stories. My desire is to see James Fort developed into a historical edifice that preserves and shares that legacy for future generations,” she said. The Director-General also appealed to the Ga Mantse for assistance in securing land within the Ga State for the expansion of the Service’s infrastructure, particularly in Accra. She lamented the encroachment on lands originally allocated to the Service, attributing the issue to bureaucratic challenges at the Lands Commission. “As Accra is the administrative capital, we urgently need land to build a new headquarters and expand our operations. The Ghana Prisons Service headquarters itself sits on Ga land, and we continue to recruit many of our personnel from this community. One of your people even told me he has three children in our service—showing that the partnership is already alive,” she stated. Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie assured the Ga Mantse of her commitment to creating job opportunities for the youth within his jurisdiction and further pledged to deepen cooperation between the Ghana Prisons Service and the Ga State. She appealed for support in the area of ICT infrastructure and capacity building, promising to return with detailed proposals. “I am confident that when my time of service comes to an end, I can look back and say that this visit yielded tangible results that benefited both the Prisons Service and the Ga State.” King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II welcomed the Director-General warmly and commended her for her vision and dedication. He assured her of the Ga State’s support and expressed optimism about future collaborations aimed at preserving history, creating opportunities for the youth, and strengthening institutions of state. On his part, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II commended Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie on her historic elevation as the second female Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service. The King described her as a woman of wisdom and expressed confidence in her leadership. He encouraged her to ensure that prisons across the country are maintained in good shape and serve their purpose of rehabilitation and reform. The King further appealed to the Director-General to consider allocating a quota for the Ga State during recruitment into the Ghana Prisons Service to enable more Ga youth to serve their nation through the institution. “This is your home, and we would be glad if more of our youth from the Ga State are given the opportunity to serve,” he said. The delegation which paid the courtesy call on the Ga Mantse include; The Director General of Prisons, Mrs Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (Esq), Director of Prisons in charge of Services, Mr Benedict Bob-dery, Director of Prisons in charge of Technical, madam Gloria Essandoh, Director of Prisons in charge of Operations, Mr Francis Selorm Hagbe, Director of Prisons in charge of Welfare, madam Millicent Owusu, Deputy Director of Prisons, Charlse Ameyaw, the Chief Legal officer and Assistant Director of Prisons, Michael Osei Akoto. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has urged the Ghana Prisons Service to collaborate closely with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) to intensify public education on the dangers of illicit drug use among the youth, in order to prevent unnecessary incarcerations. According to the King, the increasing rate of drug abuse among young people—particularly the use of substances such as “red” and other harmful drugs—must be tackled through community sensitization and preventative measures, rather than waiting for arrests and imprisonment. He made the call when the newly appointed Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (ESQ), paid a courtesy call on him at his palace in Accra on Wednesday. “I want to appeal to you to partner with the Youth Employment Agency in their campaign against the use of illicit drugs. Let us intensify education so that our youth are not arrested and sent into prisons. Prevention is better than cure,” the Ga Mantse emphasized. Commending Mrs. Baffoe-Bonnie on her historic elevation as the second female Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, the King described her as a woman of wisdom and expressed confidence in her leadership. He encouraged her to ensure that prisons across the country are maintained in good shape and serve their purpose of rehabilitation and reform. The King further appealed to the Director-General to consider allocating a quota for the Ga State during recruitment into the Ghana Prisons Service to enable more Ga youth to serve their nation through the institution. “This is your home, and we would be glad if more of our youth from the Ga State are given the opportunity to serve,” he said. On her part, the newly appointed Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (ESQ) noted that they already have a campaign called stay behind the bars. She stressed that the Prisons Service frequently visit schools to educate the school children to stay away from deviant behaviours and use of illicit drugs. "We are however more than ready to partner with YEA. We have the content already created" The delegation which paid the courtesy call on the Ga Mantse include; The Director General of Prisons, Mrs Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (Esq), Director of Prisons in charge of Services, Mr Benedict Bob-dery, Director of Prisons in charge of Technical, madam Gloria Essandoh, Director of Prisons in charge of Operations, Mr Francis Selorm Hagbe, Director of Prisons in charge of Welfare, madam Millicent Owusu, Deputy Director of Prisons, Charlse Ameyaw, the Chief Legal officer and Assistant Director of Prisons, Michael Osei Akoto. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has announced new tariff adjustments for electricity and water, which will take effect from May 3, 2025. In a statement signed by the Executive Secretary, Dr. Shafic Suleman, the Commission disclosed that electricity tariffs will increase by 14.75%, while water tariffs will go up by 4.02%. This adjustment comes as part of PURC’s quarterly tariff review for the first and second quarters of 2025. The review, according to the Commission, aims to maintain financial stability for utility providers while cushioning consumers against steep increases. The key factors driving the new rates include the depreciation of the cedi against the US dollar, inflationary trends, fuel prices (especially natural gas), and the prevailing hydro-thermal energy mix. PURC also cited the need to recover 50% of an outstanding GH¢976 million owed to utility companies from previous quarters in 2024 as a major factor influencing the hike. The remaining half of the arrears will be recovered in later quarters. The Commission reiterated that the Quarterly Tariff Review Mechanism is intended to strike a balance between under- and over-recovery of utility revenues. It warned that under-recovery compromises service delivery, while over-recovery imposes an unnecessary burden on consumers. The regulatory body noted that a full recovery of the outstanding revenue would have resulted in significantly higher tariff increases, but opted for a staggered approach in light of ongoing economic challenges. “This reflects our continued effort to protect consumers while ensuring that utility companies are adequately resourced to deliver essential services,” the statement added. The revised tariffs will be published in the official gazette and made accessible to the public soon. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Alhaji D.S. Mahama Iddrisu, Economist, Environmentalist, and Human Security Expert, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to lead a bold economic revival anchored on sustainable production, environmental responsibility, and cultural heritage. He made this call during the Ghana @ 68 Culture, Heritage, Environmental, and Economic Growth Forum (CHEEGF), organized by Arise for Change for Economic Growth (ACEG). Addressing the nation’s economic decline in recent years, Alhaji Iddrisu criticized the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo for what he described as poor financial management, particularly under the leadership of Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. He said Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves were misused, causing significant economic hardship, despite accolades from the international community. “Despite our abundant natural resources, Ghana has failed to connect them to national development. Our resources are treated as raw exports instead of assets to be refined locally for economic transformation,” he stressed. ACEG, founded by a group of Ghanaian economists and now boasting over 500,000 members, advocates for a new economic direction rooted in environmental sustainability, cultural heritage, and productive investment. Four Pillars for Economic Growth Alhaji Iddrisu outlined four essential areas for building a resilient economy: Land, Environment, Water, and Capital  as foundations of growth. Labour, Trade, and Transportation  to power industrialization. Education and Healthcare  to develop human capital. Infrastructure  including roads and housing to support economic activity. He emphasized the need for strong environmental protection, especially around water bodies and irrigation, to support agriculture and mitigate climate change. He praised President Mahama’s administration for its attention to climate change and lamented the current environmental crisis under Akufo-Addo’s government. Strategies for Economic Transformation The ACEG Chairman proposed practical steps to reboot Ghana’s economy: Revive key industries  such as the Komenda Sugar Factory, Bonsa Tyre Factory, Ghana Textiles, and local rice production. Reintroduce Ghana Airways  under a Public-Private Partnership to stimulate tourism and foreign exchange. Export skilled professionals  trained in Ghanaian institutions to countries such as India, Germany, Brazil, and Kuwait for foreign income generation. Promote exports of high-demand goods  including honey, cashew, mangoes, salt, and bottled water. He argued that Ghana must break free from overdependence on imports and foreign currencies like the U.S. dollar. "We must reduce inflation by producing more locally and introducing fuel subsidies to stabilize prices,” he said. Global Economic Comparison and Local Lessons Alhaji Iddrisu presented a global view of how fuel pricing affects national economies and urged Ghana to adopt a model where local production shields citizens from global oil price volatility. He urged the Mahama-led administration to learn from countries that have stabilized their economies by prioritizing production and managing imports wisely. Call to President Mahama Calling President John Mahama “the second coming of Jesus,” Alhaji Iddrisu expressed confidence that Mahama could reset Ghana’s economic trajectory. He urged the reintroduction of Ghana Airways, revival of cotton production, and establishment of export markets for strategic commodities. He also reflected on the industrial collapses under former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s administration and noted how Presidents Mills and Mahama began restoring key factories before the Akufo-Addo government derailed those efforts. Environmental Crisis and Climate Impact Highlighting the link between black carbon emissions and worsening climate conditions, he warned that Ghana faces serious risks including food insecurity and premature deaths unless it urgently addresses environmental degradation. "We must stop deforestation, reduce burning, and protect our air and water,” he urged. ACEG’s Commitment ACEG pledged full support for the Mahama administration in restoring the foundation for sustainable economic growth. “We urge citizens and media to integrate cultural heritage with environmental consciousness to ensure long-term prosperity,” Alhaji Iddrisu concluded. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has urged newly commissioned recruits under the Blue Water Guards initiative to uphold integrity and professionalism as they take up frontline roles in protecting Ghana’s water bodies from the menace of illegal mining. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of 453 recruits at the Naval Operating Base in Ezinlibo, Jomoro Municipality, Western Region, the Minister emphasized the critical nature of their mission. “Your role is critical,” Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah stated. "You are the eyes, ears, and first point of contact, working with traditional leaders and the local communities to safeguard our water bodies from illegal mining. Your duty is to observe, report, and escalate threats to the Ghana Navy Riverine Command Unit promptly.” He reiterated that the Blue Water Guards, trained in surveillance, survival swimming, boat handling, and basic combat, will work in collaboration with the Ghana Navy but will not engage in direct confrontations. Instead, they are tasked with intelligence gathering and relaying real-time information for swift military response. To ensure effective operations, the Ministry has established Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs) along the Ankobra, Fia, Bonsa, and downstream Pra rivers. The initiative is set to be expanded to the Ashanti, Central, Eastern, Bono, and Savannah regions, aiming to create over 2,000 direct jobs while protecting Ghana’s natural ecosystems. Also present was the Deputy Minister of Defence, Hon. Brogya Genfi, who reaffirmed the Navy’s unwavering support for the initiative, describing illegal mining as one of the greatest threats to Ghana’s environment and national future. The commissioning of the Blue Water Guards signals a new era of strategic enforcement and community engagement in the fight against galamsey, with the government calling on all citizens to join as volunteers and play their part in preserving the nation’s water resources. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, together with members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), has held a Guard of Honour parade for the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Major General William Agyapong, at the National Police Headquarters, Accra. The guard of honour which was held on Monday marks his first visit as CDS to the Police Headquarters. The ceremony was to mark the maiden visit of Major General William Agyapong to the National Police Headquarters in his capacity as the CDS. In a meeting that followed, the two reaffirmed the commitment of the security services to strengthen inter-agency collaboration in addressing the security needs of the country including the security situation at Bawku. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Celebrated Ghanaian Rapper, Michael Owusu Addo, popularly known as Sarkodie, has filed a lawsuit against Ecobank Ghana, accusing the financial institution of unlawfully exploiting his image rights. The lawsuit, filed on March 25, 2025, alleges that Ecobank used the image of a lookalike in a promotional campaign, misleading the public into believing that Sarkodie had endorsed the bank’s products and services. The artist contends that this act amounts to a misrepresentation of his brand and a violation of his intellectual property rights. Sarkodie, who is the current brand ambassador for First Bank—one of Ecobank’s direct competitors—claims the campaign created significant “brand confusion” and potentially undermined his existing endorsement deals. In the suit, the award-winning rapper is seeking a perpetual injunction to prevent Ecobank from using any image or likeness that may be associated with him. He is also demanding damages for what he describes as unauthorized commercial use of his identity. “Using a lookalike of a public figure—especially one who represents a competing brand—crosses ethical and legal boundaries,” Sarkodie’s legal team stated. “This is not just misleading; it has the potential to harm our client’s professional credibility and contractual relationships.” As of the time of this report, Ecobank Ghana—Ghana’s largest bank by asset value—has yet to issue a formal response to the claims. The case has sparked public interest and could reignite discussions about personality rights, endorsement ethics, and the responsibilities of corporate entities in marketing campaigns. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith