In a statement signed by Samuel Abu Jinapor, Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Damongo Constituency on May 22, 2026 he described the development as “deeply troubling” and questioned government’s handling of the situation, involving the safety of Ghanaian nationals abroad.

According to the Minority, recent xenophobic incidents in South Africa have created fear and uncertainty among foreign nationals, including Ghanaians, prompting concerns about the safety and welfare of citizens residing there.

The statement noted that reports of intimidation and attacks had led government to announce plans for an evacuation exercise to support affected Ghanaians.

The caucus further revealed that hundreds of Ghanaians had reportedly registered with Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria in anticipation of being evacuated or assisted.

However, government later announced a postponement of the exercise, citing legal and logistical challenges. The Minority argued that such issues should have been addressed before any public commitments were made.

“Such matters should not become obstacles in the middle of a crisis response. They are issues that ought to have been considered and addressed before commitments were made publicly,” the statement stressed.

The Minority said it had consistently called for swift and coordinated action from the onset of the crisis, insisting that the protection of Ghanaians abroad remains a fundamental responsibility of government.

The caucus also warned that the postponement reinforces growing concerns about the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ approach to citizen protection and crisis management. It said the development highlights the need for government to ensure that public announcements are backed by adequate operational systems capable of delivering on promises made to citizens.

“Behind every statistic is a Ghanaian citizen, a family living in fear, and people looking to their country for protection and reassurance,” the statement added.

The Minority has, therefore, renewed its call on government to act with urgency, provide regular updates to affected citizens and the public, and ensure all necessary measures are taken to safeguard the dignity, welfare and safety of Ghanaians living abroad.

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Société des Mines de Kofi is being accused of failing to pay the required tax to the state of Mali and multiple violations of the country’s mining and financial regulations.

The latest development comes amid growing scrutiny surrounding operations of Nguvu Mining Group across West Africa, with the recent revocation of the licence of its Ghanaian subsidiary, Adamus Mines, by Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources over alleged regulatory

and operational breaches linked to its mining activities.

Adamus Mines suffered a revocation of its mining licence, recently following concerns raised by Ghanaian authorities, which centred on compliance failures and operational irregularities.

Similarly, the Malian authorities are accusing MIKO-SA of engaging in serious financial misconduct, including an alleged opening of unauthorised offshore accounts and the failure to repatriate foreign exchange earnings into Mali, in violation of the country’s foreign exchange control laws.

In a strongly worded notice, dated April 24, 2026 Mali’s Minister of Mines, Amadou Keïta warned the company that its exploitation permit could be withdrawn if the alleged breaches are not rectified within ninety days.

The notice, addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of MIKO-SA, in Bamako, and copied to Mali’s Minister of Economy and Finance, underscored the gravity of the accusations and the government’s determination to enforce compliance in the mining sector.

According to Mali’s Ministry of Mines, MIKO-SA and SEMICO-SA, both subsidiaries of Nguvu Mining Group, hold exploitation permits for the Kofi and Segala mining projects located in the Kéniéba Circle, in Western Mali.

Authorities say investigations and engagements with company officials uncovered several alleged violations, including the suspension of mining operations for more than two years

without authorisation from the mining administration.

The government further accused the company of failing to pay taxes, duties and royalties owed to the Malian State, describing the alleged conduct as a serious breach of the country’s mining code and financial laws.

The said formal notice alleged that MIKO-SA opened offshore accounts without approval and failed to transfer foreign currency proceeds back into Mali as required under Uniform Law No. 2016-007 governing exchange control regulations.

The government maintains that the alleged offences violate Article 18 of Mali’s Mining Code established under Ordinance No. 99-032/P-RM of August 19, 1999, which empowers the State to withdraw mining titles where companies suspend operations without authorization or fail to meet tax and royalty obligations.

The Ministry stressed that each of the alleged violations independently constitutes grounds for the withdrawal of the company’s exploitation permit.

Minister Keïta consequently directed MIKO-SA to regularise the situation within ninety days or risk losing its mining rights entirely.

“Failing this, the State reserves the right to proceed with the outright withdrawal of your permit,” the notice stated in part.

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The facility, established by indigenous Ghanaian company 7 Eleven, is expected to manufacture industrial bolts, nuts and advanced coated products for critical sectors including petroleum, mining, construction, energy and infrastructure.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of 7 Eleven, Isaac Anochie, described the investment as a strategic effort to reposition Ghana from an import-dependent economy to a competitive manufacturing hub capable of serving both local and regional markets.

“For years, industries in Ghana have depended heavily on imported fasteners and industrial coating solutions.

“Today, we are beginning to change that story with locally manufactured products that meet international standards,” he said.

Mr. Anochie noted that the facility would not only supply essential industrial components but also serve as a catalyst for job creation, skills development and technology transfer among Ghanaian youth.

According to him, the advanced surface coating plant would improve durability and corrosion resistance of industrial equipment while helping companies reduce maintenance costs and improve operational efficiency.

The Petroleum Commission described the project as evidence of the growing capacity of indigenous Ghanaian companies within the upstream petroleum sector.

In remarks delivered on behalf of the Director for Economics and Local Content, Kwaku Boateng, the Commission said investments of this nature were critical to Ghana’s local content agenda and would help retain more value within the national economy.

“This facility demonstrates the gradual success being made in local content development and the growing competitiveness of indigenous Ghanaian companies,” the statement noted.

The Commission further pledged continued support for local companies to meet international technical and safety standards required in the petroleum industry.

Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson, who commissioned the facility, commended 7 Eleven for choosing the Western Region for the investment and described the project as timely under government’s industrialization and 24-hour economy agenda.

He urged chiefs and traditional authorities to make litigation-free lands available to investors to encourage more industrial projects in the region.

The newly commissioned facility is also expected to operate as a repair and maintenance hub for extractive and industrial companies across Ghana and the West African sub-region.

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According to a statement issued by the Ghana Police Service, through the Tema Regional Police Command, the students were arrested after a video surfaced online showing a student brandishing a cutlass and allegedly threatening colleagues on campus.

The police identified the suspects as Raymond Gyamfi, 18, Oscar Amemoair, 18, Odartey Wilson, 18 and one juvenile. All four are currently in police custody assisting with investigations.

The incident reportedly came to the attention of the police around 12:10 a.m. on May 22, 2026 after officers intercepted the viral footage on social media. A night patrol team was immediately dispatched to the school to prevent any escalation.

With the assistance of school authorities, the suspects seen in the video were identified and arrested.

The disturbing footage has triggered public concern over student safety, peer intimidation and the increasing exposure of school violence through social media platforms.

Education and child welfare advocates have in recent years warned that unresolved conflicts, poor emotional regulation, social media influence and weak counselling systems in some schools are contributing to aggressive behaviour among adolescents.

Although no injuries were reported in the incident, the presence of a deadly weapon on a school campus has raised fresh questions about security screening and supervision in boarding and day schools.

The police, in their statement, advised students to resolve disagreements peacefully through established school disciplinary structures rather than resorting to threats or violence.

Parents and school authorities were also urged to strengthen guidance, counselling, supervision and discipline mechanisms to help maintain safety and order within educational institutions.

The Tema Regional Police Command assured the public that investigations into the incident are ongoing and that further developments would be communicated in due course.

The latest incident adds to growing national conversations about child protection, mental health support and violence prevention in Ghanaian schools, particularly at a time when social media continues to amplify student misconduct and risky behaviour.

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Testifying before the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra, presided over by Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, the accused, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, maintained under cross-examination that he had been unfairly singled out by the Republic.

According to him, weapons, gold, vehicles, and other items retrieved during operations were wrongfully attributed to him, despite others allegedly admitting ownership.“I have been brought to court, meanwhile those who claimed the items belong to them have been left and are now witnesses against me,” he told the court.

Wontumi further denied any involvement in illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, insisting he neither authorised nor participated in such operations on the concession belonging to Akonta Mining Company Ltd, where he serves as a director.
He stated that he was not present at the site at the time of the alleged activities and had no knowledge of the seized items.

During proceedings, Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem-Sai led the cross-examination, probing the operations and administrative compliance of the third accused company, Akonta Mining.

Under questioning, Wontumi admitted that the company had not filed annual returns with the Registrar of Companies and had never held board meetings, explaining that the company had not commenced operations due to lack of parliamentary ratification.

He, however, acknowledged that the company had previously been involved in litigation with Samartex Timber and Plywood Company Limited over land use rights. The court was told that although both entities held rights over the same land, Akonta Mining was restrained from operating until it completed its documentation. The prosecution tendered a May 19, 2023 judgment of the Sekondi High Court in that matter as evidence.

Wontumi also denied allegations that he granted permission to one Henry Okum to undertake mining activities on the concession or assisted him in acquiring heavy-duty equipment.
Instead, he claimed Okum had approached him to undertake land reclamation and coconut planting, with an understanding to share proceeds upon maturity. He admitted, however, that there was no written agreement to that effect.

The accused further rejected claims that he deliberately avoided visiting the concession to distance himself from illegal mining activities, insisting that only the sector minister has authority to assign mining rights.
“I cannot assign a concession to anyone. That power rests with the minister,” he told the court.
The prosecution put it to him that his business model involved acquiring mining leases and allowing others to engage in illegal mining for a share of the proceeds, a claim he described as “falsehood with no evidence.”

Meanwhile, defence counsel Andy Appiah-Kubi prayed the court for additional time to file witness statements for two defence witnesses said to be outside the jurisdiction.
However, the prosecution opposed the request, arguing that no such statements had been filed and urging the court to close the case.

Ruling on the matter, Justice Kocuvie-Tay granted the defence an extension until May 28, 2026, to present its witnesses, failing which the court would close the case and proceed to addresses. The case was accordingly adjourned to May 28, 2026.

Andy Appiah Kubi, defence counsel leads his client

Q. Mentioned your full name to the court?
A. My name is Bernard Antwi Boasiako
Q. Do you know the third accused?
A. Yes

Q. How are you related to the third accused company?
A. I know the third accused company that it has a lease to operate. I am a director of the company.
Q. Do you have the authority of the third accused company to give evidence on its behalf?

A. Yes, my Lady
Q. You have two documents discovered in this case? One filed on May 5, 2026 and the other filed on the 6th of May, 2026. What do you want to do with it?
A. I want to rely on this documents as my evidence-in-chief.

Mining lease from the government of Ghana, letter from Akonta Mining Company Ltd. to the regional security counsel, investigation cautioned statement of Henry dated 7, July 2025, police investigative caution statement of Alhassan Mohammed date 7 July, 2025, police investigative caution statement of Alex Obeng.

Cross-examination by Justice Srem-Sai – Deputy Attorney General

Q. Do you know anyone by name Kwame Antwi?
A. Yes, my Lady
Q. Where does he live?

A. He was then living at Tarkwa but between the years 2021 and 2022, he made his mind to travel and since then I’ve not heard from him.
Q. How are you related to this Kwame Antwi?
A. We are directors of Akonta Mining Ltd.
Q. Tell the court the last time that you, as directors of Akonta Mining, filed your annual returns with the registrar of companies?

A. I can’t remember.
Q. Have you ever filed an annual returns on behalf of A3?
A. The company is not operating.
Q. I’m suggesting to you that you have never filed your annual returns on behalf of A3 at the Registrar of Companies?
A. My Lady we have never operated.
Q. I am putting it to you that a company must file its returns regardless of whether they work or operate or not?

A. I don’t know.
Q. Have you ever held a board of directors meeting for A3?
A. No my Lady. We’ve never had or held a meeting.
Q. Has A3 ever been engaged in civil litigation with a company called Samartex Timber and Plywood Company limited?

A. Yes, my Lady
Q. The subject matter of that litigation was on the operations of A3. Do you know?
A. That is not so.
Q. Kindly take a look at this document. It is a copy of the court’s ruling in the case that A3 had with Samartex in the Sekondi High Court. Is that not so?

A. Yes my Lady. Samartex Company is a timber company and they are on the same land the government gave me as a lease. And so when we got our licence to work. We were supposed to know where we have to build structures and where we were to place our machines when they are brought.

They also told us that that is the same place they would also want to build their office. So, they took us to court. The court stated to us that we have a lease for mining and they also have a license for lumbering, but we do not have parliamentary ratification to work. So we should go and complete documentation before we could do anything. That is why I’m saying we have never worked.

Prosecution: We wish to tender the judgment of the High Court Sekondi delivered May 19, 2023.

Q. I am putting it to you that based on…you have said it is not true that A3 has not commenced business?
A. That is not true. We never worked.
Q. Do you know PW2, Mr. Henry Okum?
A. I got to know him when he went to Akonta. But before then I did not know him.
Q. Tell the court when PW2 went to Akonta.
A. I got to know that in 2024 Henry Okum said he had gone to Minerals Commission and had seen that Akonta Mining Company is located at site.

Q. Mr. Okum is a small scale miner. True or false.
A. I don’t know.
Q. On January 15, 2026, Mr. Okum told this court that you wrote a letter on behalf of A3 to Western REGSEC to clear illegal miners from A3’s concession. Did you write that letter?

A. I remember that since we started appearing before this court and up till now, there about 40 groups of illegal miners on the land currently as we speak. So, I write a letter to the Director of CID.

Q. On May 19, 2026, Mr. Mireku-Duker told this court that you wrote a letter to the Regional Security Council, Western Region to go and clear A3’s concession of illegal miners. Did you write any such letter?
A. Yes, my Lady
Q. You handed A3’s concession to Henry Okum to enter and work. True or false?

A. That is not true.
Q. You also assisted Henry Okum to purchase earth moving equipment including excavators so he could use them to work on A3’s concession. True or false?
A. My Lady, that is not so. What I know is that Mr. Okum went onto the site to cover dark holes on the land and I also did not assist him to purchase any earth moving equipment.

Q. You gave permission to Henry Okum to go onto A3’s concession. Did you ever go there to see what he was doing on the land after you allowed him to go to the land.
A. I’ve not been onto the land. But what I know is that he has reclaimed land and planted about 18,000 coconut trees on it per the videos he brought to me.
Q. Do you know is it is the duty of a minerals rights holder to ensure that the concessions given is used only in accordance with the terms of the licence he has been given?

A. Yes, my Lady
Q. I am putting it to you that by failing to go and see what exactly Henry Okum was doing on the land, you have it performed your duties?
A. That is not true.
Q. Do you have any record of what you told Henry Okum to go and do on A3’s concession?

A. I don’t have any documentary issues with PW2 apart from the fact that he should reclaim the land and plant coconut tree, which he has done that when it matures we share. That is why Mr. Ernest Obeng and Obeng Manu said they reclaimed the land and planted coconut.

Q. Apart from documents, which you have told this court that you didn’t have evidence of your instructions to PW2, do you have any other record, which evidences this alleged instruction to PW2 that he could only carry out reclamation on A3’s concession?
A. No. There’s none.

Q. I’m suggesting to you that you knew at the time that PW2 approached you that PW2 was a small scale miner.
A. I’m not aware. He told me he is a service support worker.
Q. I am putting it to you that it is because you knew that he is a small scale miner that you gave him permission to enter A3’s concession and to mine.

A. My lady that is not true. Akonta Mining, our interest is gold. And that you have to pay millions of Dollars before you acquire mining licence. And if the reason why we acquired the licence is gold, why would we give the profit that we will gain from mining to another person to mine while Akonta Mining will not gain anything from it.

So it is not true. He came that he wanted to reclaim the land and plant coconut so that when it matures we share. Akonta Mining never had any mining contact with him and he is also not part of Akonta Mining.

Q. I am putting it to you that because you knew the purpose of allowing him to enter A3’s concession was to mine, you helped him to purchase heavy duty earth moving equipment to use on the land for mining?

A. That is not true. From the beginning, when I was called to the police station they told me that Mr. Martin Kpebu says I have gone to do galamsey. And that they have arrested people with guns, cars and gold which they said was mine. When the time came for evidence to be taken, the one who reported me did not avail himself for me to question him. The guns, the ammunition, the gold, the cars are not mine.

Martin Kpebu and co. who made a report that they have arrested PW2 and PW1…to see gold, guns, ammunition and cars and they said they were not doing galamsey and I was not arrested at the scene where I have not given permission to anyone neither has A3 given permission to anyone to go and mine on the concession and all the items they confiscated at the scene and I do not know anything about them. I rather has been brought to court and the people who claimed the items belong to them have been left and brought to court as witnesses against me.

Q. I am putting it to you that you chose not to visit A3’s concession and to be seen there simply because you want to avoid any physical connection, which with what PW2 and his employees were doing for you?

A. My lady that is not true. Now that I have been brought here what they are charging with me is that a land that belongs to Akonta Mining I have assigned it to PW2. My Lady, I cannot do that. It is only the minister who has that power to do that.
Q. Finally I’m putting it to you that it is your business model to acquire mining lease, but to allow other people to engage in the actual illegal mining activities and to pass on the proceeds to you?

Q. My lady that is not true. It is falsehood that has no evidence and that is why Mr Kpebu and co who initially went to report could not come before this court with evidence that I have given any assignment to anyone or that I’m working on said land. I never worked there. Martin Kpebu does not know me.

Q. Finally, finally I’m putting it to you that the proceeds you get from your business model is within the illegal mining community, called ‘good will’ or ‘percentage.
A. That is not true. Nobody will go to Registrar of Companies and go for thieves to go and work on the land.

My lady for example in 2025 Anglogold Ashanti killed about 20 people who were illegally working on their land. And that no large scale mining company will allow any other person to mine on their concession. Where their interest is gold. No large scale mining company will allow any other person to mine on their concession.
As we speak now there are illegal miners on the concession. Also last week NAIMOS claimed they arrested about 275 illegal miners both locals and foreigners.

Kubi- Defence counsel: the challenge we have is that two of our witness are out of the jurisdiction. That they have been away before the CMC. I have information that they are all coming next week. The first person will be in the country on Tuesday. We still intend to rely on their evidence.

We pray that that your ladyship shows mercy and allow us to file the witness statements of our two witnesses in the early part of next week and possibly give evidence in the later part of the week.

DAG: we are opposed to the prayer. Just last week counsel informed that the alleged witnesses were going to arrive and he will file their witness statements this week. Today counsel is giving another day for their arrival.

What is clear however, is that there are no witness statements before my lady in respect of which my lady could take an adjournment.

Secondly, even if there were witness statements, the rule CI 87 and the practice direction and the evidence decree give this court the power to close the trial where the witness is unavailable to be cross-examined. We, therefore, pray that my lady will reject this prayer.

Judge: it is the considered view of this court that at all material times this court has exercised its discretion under article 296 and article 19(1) of the 1992 constitution. As far back as the month of March this court ordered the accused person to file his witness statement…

As of today he is praying for extension of time to file additional witness statements. I do not know how much time accused person wants this court to give him in terms of article 19(1) of the constitution.

I will further make reference to rule 4…

Having read the said rule, this court will extend time till the 28 of May, 2026 for the accused person to put their witness in the box in default of which the court will assume they do not have any other witnesses and close this matter for addresses to be filed.

This case is adjourned to 28 May, 2025 for the accused to call their next witness.

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The latest phase of the reconstruction exercise officially began on Friday, May 22, 2026, starting from the Somanya Roundabout and extending to the frontage of Nagisa Pharmacy in Somanya. The development marks a significant milestone in the reconstruction of one of the Eastern Region’s most economically strategic but heavily damaged roads.

Engineers supervising the project explained that the application of the primer seal forms a critical preparatory stage for the eventual laying of the first and second coats of asphalt surfacing. The process is expected to improve road durability while preparing the surface for final finishing works.

For residents of the Yilo Krobo and Lower Manya Krobo municipalities, the sight of heavy construction equipment actively spreading bitumen on the road has generated renewed optimism and excitement after years of disappointment and repeated appeals to successive governments.

The Somanya-Kpong road has for several years remained a major source of concern for commuters, commercial drivers, traders, and businesses operating within the Krobo enclave. Deep potholes, severe erosion, loose gravel, and thick clouds of dust turned daily travel into a nightmare for thousands of road users.

Commercial transport operators repeatedly complained about the rapid destruction of vehicle suspension systems, tyres and other spare parts due to the poor condition of the road, leading to transport fares also increased significantly over the years as drivers attempted to recover maintenance costs.

Traders and market women who depend on the road for transporting goods between Somanya, Kpong, Agomanya, Akosombo, and surrounding communities equally suffered delays and financial losses due to the deteriorating condition of the stretch.

Beyond the economic burden, residents living along the corridor faced serious health concerns caused by the persistent dust generated by heavy vehicular movement. Many residents, including schoolchildren and roadside traders, reportedly suffered respiratory infections, eye irritation, catarrh, and chronic coughs linked to the dusty environment.

The worsening condition of the road eventually triggered several public demonstrations and agitations by residents and pressure groups in the Krobo area demanding immediate government intervention.

One of the most notable demonstrations was organized by the Coalition of Krobo Groups from Somanya and Odumase-Krobo, who petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to urgently intervene and ensure the reconstruction of the road before the situation worsened further.

Through their respective Municipal Chief Executives (MCEs), the coalition appealed to the president to direct the Ministry of Roads and Highways as well as the Ghana Highways Authority to compel the contractor to resume work within sixty days.

The coalition further demanded that durable construction materials capable of withstanding the pressure from the heavy limestone-haulage trucks that frequently ply the route be used for the reconstruction works.

During the massive protest march from Somanya to Odumase-Krobo, demonstrators carried placards bearing inscriptions such as “Road maintenance is not optional.” “Our women are suffering in Agomanya Market,” “Krobo MPs wake up,” and “The president appointed ministers, but they are failing us.”

Speaking during the protest, Chairman of Kloma Hengme, Isaac Tamatey Otu, described the Somanya-Kpong road as a critical transportation corridor linking Somanya, Odumase-Krobo, Kpong, the Akosombo-Tema industrial enclave and parts of the Volta Region.

According to him, although the road was reconstructed in 2016 by First Sky Construction Limited, it began deteriorating only a few years after completion due largely to the constant movement of overloaded limestone-haulage trucks and the failure to use durable materials suitable for the traffic pressure on the route.

He explained that growing public dissatisfaction during the previous administration eventually led to the inclusion of the road as an addendum to the broader Nkurakan-Trom Road Project, which was awarded to General Construction Limited.

Construction activities reportedly commenced around July 2024 and progressed steadily until the change of government in January 2025, after which work slowed considerably, further intensifying public frustration and anger.

However, with contractors now visibly applying primer seal and bitumen surfacing on the road, confidence appears to be gradually returning among residents and road users.

Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, who inspected the project on Saturday, May 23, 2026, received a warm and enthusiastic reception from residents who thronged the area to express appreciation and renewed hope for the completion of the road.

During the inspection tour, the Regional Minister (RM) urged the contractor to ensure that high-quality and durable work is carried out to withstand the constant pressure from heavy-duty trucks that use the stretch daily.

She further assured residents that the government remains committed to addressing other deteriorated road networks within the area to improve transportation, stimulate economic activities, and enhance connectivity within the Eastern Region.

Residents who interacted with the minister expressed optimism that the completion of the Somanya-Kpong road would significantly reduce transportation costs, improve safety, ease traffic congestion, and boost commercial activities across the Krobo enclave and adjoining communities.

Many residents believe the project will restore public confidence in infrastructure delivery while opening up new economic opportunities for businesses and investors in the area.

Meanwhile, Chairman of Kloma Hengme, Isaac Tamatey Otu, has cautioned that while residents are excited about the visible progress on the road, concerns still remain about the overall quality and durability of the work being executed.

“As much as we are happy that the primer seal is finally being applied and the dust situation will reduce, we are equally concerned about the quality of work being done,” he stated.

“We do not want a situation where this road will be completed and within a few years deteriorate again as has happened with many roads constructed in the Krobo area over the years. I am, therefore, urging the contractor to focus on quality work and use the best materials for the project.”

He stressed that General Construction Limited must pay particular attention to the axle loads of the heavy limestone-haulage trucks that use the road daily.

Mr. Otu further called on residents and road users to remain vigilant and actively monitor the construction process to ensure accountability and quality assurance.

“As citizens, we have a responsibility to keep the contractor in check. If anyone notices any form of shoddy work, it is our duty to report it to the appropriate authorities for action to be taken,” he emphasized.

He advised residents to channel complaints or observations regarding the project through the Municipal Engineer’s office, the Municipal Chief Executive’s office, or other relevant authorities within the municipalities.

With construction activities now visibly progressing, residents across the Krobo enclave remain hopeful that the rehabilitation works will continue without interruption until the entire Somanya-Kpong stretch is fully completed and opened to smooth and safe vehicular movement.

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The buses represent the first batch of a planned 300-bus procurement programme intended to strengthen the operational capacity of Metro Mass Transit and provide more reliable transport services nationwide.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony at the MMTL headquarters on Friday, May 22, 2026, the Vice President said the initiative forms part of government’s RESET agenda aimed at improving infrastructure, creating jobs and stimulating economic activity.

She noted that the buses would support night transport operations, assist shift workers and improve mobility in urban centres where transport challenges remain severe.

According to her, passenger safety, comfort and fuel efficiency were central considerations in the acquisition process. She further explained that route planning would be informed by commuter demand data and public feedback to ensure greater efficiency and responsiveness.

The commissioning of the newly acquired buses by the Vice President marks a significant and commendable step toward addressing the country’s worsening public transport crisis. At a time when millions of commuters continue to endure overcrowded vehicles, endless queues, unreliable transport services and exploitative fare practices, the government’s decision to invest in high-capacity buses deserves recognition.

The Chronicle has consistently argued that our transport system is in urgent need of structural reform. In our previous editorials we highlighted the daily suffering of commuters and the economic damage caused by an inefficient transport network. We also welcomed government’s earlier promise to provide buses for public transport operators as part of broader reforms.

Today, with the arrival and commissioning of the first batch of 100 buses out of the planned 300, government has moved beyond promises to visible action. This deserves commendation. The emphasis on safety, comfort, fuel efficiency and support for night operations shows an understanding of the realities confronting urban commuters and shift workers.

However, while this investment is encouraging, history demands that Ghanaians remain cautiously optimistic. Ghana has witnessed several well-intentioned public transport interventions collapse due to poor maintenance culture, political interference, weak management systems and lack of operational discipline. The concern now is not merely about acquiring buses, but ensuring that these vehicles are used effectively, maintained properly and protected from the cycle of neglect that has crippled similar initiatives in the past.

Indeed, many state transport assets across the country tell a painful story of abandonment. Over the years, buses acquired under various administrations have either broken down prematurely, been parked indefinitely at depots or become unserviceable due to poor maintenance practices.

Metro Mass itself has previously struggled with operational inefficiencies and aging fleets caused largely by delayed servicing, inadequate spare parts management and weak supervision. The once-promising Bus Rapid Transit system, popularly known as Aayalolo, also suffered a sharp decline after years of inconsistent policy direction and neglect of dedicated infrastructure.

It is, therefore, refreshing that Vice President Opoku-Agyemang specifically stressed the importance of “strict maintenance routines” during the commissioning ceremony. That warning must not become another ceremonial statement forgotten after the cameras disappear. Maintenance must become a national priority within public transport administration.

Globally, successful public transport systems survive not because buses are purchased, but because they are maintained through disciplined operational systems. Countries with efficient bus services invest heavily in preventive maintenance schedules, professional fleet management systems, driver accountability mechanisms and dedicated funding for repairs and spare parts. Ghana must adopt the same seriousness.

The newly acquired buses must not be treated as political trophies or merely ceremonial additions to the roads. They were bought for a clear purpose: to improve mobility, reduce commuter suffering, support economic activity and restore dignity to public transportation. They must, therefore, be deployed strategically to the areas where transport pressure is most severe. Routes should indeed be guided by commuter demand data, as government has promised, rather than political considerations or union pressure.

Additionally, government must ensure that these buses operate consistently and reliably. One of the reasons commuters continue to rely heavily on overcrowded trotros is the unreliability of many public transport alternatives. If commuters are unable to trust the availability and punctuality of these new buses, the broader objective of reducing congestion and improving productivity will fail.

Equally important is the issue of discipline and accountability within the system. We have repeatedly raised concerns about the growing indiscipline in Ghana’s transport sector, from arbitrary fare increases to dangerous driving practices. The acquisition of modern buses alone will not solve these problems unless management insists on professionalism among drivers, inspectors and operational staff.

The Chronicle also believes government must avoid the temptation of allowing these buses to deteriorate under politicised appointments and poor administrative oversight. Public transport institutions should be managed professionally, with performance targets, transparent financial systems and independent operational monitoring. We cannot continue spending millions on transport interventions only for assets to collapse after a few years due to negligence.

Furthermore, this investment should form part of a broader national transport transformation agenda. The buses alone cannot solve Accra’s transport nightmare. Government must revisit dedicated bus lanes, revive and modernise the Bus Rapid Transit concept and accelerate plans for integrated transport systems supported by digital ticketing and proper urban planning.

Government has taken an important first step. Now comes the harder task: ensuring that these buses serve the purpose for which they were bought and do not become another symbol of wasted public investment.

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The report said the reforms were aimed at reducing risks and making the financial sector more stable and resilient.

The FSC, which includes key regulators such as the Bank of Ghana, Securities and Exchange Commission, National Insurance Commission, and National Pensions Regulatory Authority, has increased cooperation among its members to address weaknesses in the system.

As part of the reforms, the Council adopted recommendations from the World Bank to improve how it operates, make its work more visible, and strengthen coordination among its member institutions.

“The Council has increased cooperation among regulators to help maintain financial stability and support growth in the sector,” the report said.

The FSC has also focused on training its technical teams to better identify and respond to risks in the system.

One of the major steps taken is the creation of a system to monitor risks in the virtual assets sector, following the passage of the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act, 2025.

In addition, the Council is preparing for Ghana’s third Mutual Evaluation by GIABA, a regional body that assesses efforts to combat money laundering and terrorism financing.

“This is expected to strengthen the country’s financial security measures,” the report said.

“The FSC is also working with the Ghana Statistical Service to build a reliable real estate database to help track developments and risks in the property market.”

To promote growth in the capital market, the report said the Council was supporting the Bank Listing Project, which encouraged banks to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange.

“This is expected to help banks access more funding and improve transparency,” it said.

In the insurance sector, the FSC had backed policies that required the use of local insurance for imports.

“This move aimed to reduce foreign exchange outflows and strengthen local insurance companies,” the report added.

The Council, in collaborating with the National Identification Authority, was working to solve identity verification challenges that limit financial inclusion and effective regulation.

“The FSC is also supporting new laws and policies to protect financial consumers and promote fair competition within the sector,” it said.

The report emphasised that those coordinated efforts were important in maintaining stability in Ghana’s financial system, especially after recent economic challenges.

It added that the Council would continue to work together to identify risks early and implement policies that ensured long-term stability in the financial sector.

By Jibril Abdul Mumuni

GNA

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He pointed to a fundamental shift in the three key conditions that drove those losses, expressing confidence that the Bank remained fully solvent and capable of delivering on its mandate.

The Bank’s operating losses were driven by revenue loss from the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), revaluation losses from the Cedi’s sharp appreciation and high cost of extensive open market operations needed to curb elevated inflation.

Dr Asiama said this at a press briefing at the end of the 130th Monetary Policy Committee meeting, while responding to a question posed by the Ghana News Agency on measures the Central Bank was employing to address its losses.

“From where we are currently, our operating losses will be less costly, compared to last year. We don’t see the cedi appreciating by 41 or 42 per cent this year, so revaluation losses could actually become revaluation gains,” he said.

The Central Bank Governor noted that the conditions that gave rise to those losses had materially changed, with the same combination of pressures not expected to converge again this year to the same degree or effect.

He explained that open market operations would be considerably less costly in 2026, given that inflation was well below the lower limit of the medium-term target band of 8± 2 per cent, in addition to aggressive monetary tightening.

Regarding the Cedi, Governor Asiama explained that instead of revaluation losses, the current exchange rate trajectory could produce revaluation gains on the Bank’s balance sheet.

“Our financial statement on the 31st of December 2025, the selling rate of the dollar was GHS10.4.

“Today, the Cedi rate to the dollar is GHS11.5. Now, if I publish the same financials today, the picture will have changed completely,” he stated.

Governor Asiama said it was important for the losses to be understood in the context of what was achieved, describing the stability gains realised in 2025 as significant and as a “necessary cost,” and a “reset” that could not easily be put into monetary terms.

He said the Central Bank’s overriding priority was the maintenance of that stability, saying “what now matters most is the ability to hold the anchor going forward – to preserve the stability that was achieved at considerable cost, so that other growth outcomes can be built upon that foundation for the benefit of all Ghanaians.”

He urged Ghanaians not to have fears about the Central Bank’s viability and committed to delivering its price stability mandate as required to the people of Ghana, promising a turnaround in 2026.

Dr Asiama reaffirmed the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to transparency and public communication, expressing confidence that an informed public would understand the full picture of where the Bank stood and where it was headed.

By Francis Ntow

GNA

The post BoG losses will not recur at last year’s scale -Governor Asiama appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.

Elder Owusu, who is a proprietor of a local sawmill, the only source of employment for the youth, claims the Assembly member for Betinko Electoral area has called for the closure of the sawmill.

The Assemblyman is said to be backing one David Agyemang alias Obenefo Sarfo, who identifies himself as Odikro in illegal mining activities in the area.

Elder Owusu, who raised concerns at a press conference, conscientised the members of the community to resist illegal mining activities in the area, because it would severely degrade the livelihood of the residents of the community.

He warned the residents that illegal mining will contribute to the destruction of agricultural land and pollution of water bodies with toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide and, therefore, threaten food security, endanger public health through heavy metal poisoning, and drive social instability, including school dropouts and increased crime rates.

Elder Owusu also mentioned uncovered mining pits as dangerous death traps for livestock and humans, which become breeding grounds for mosquitoes as a danger of illegal mining.

He said Poor sanitation due to degradation of the environment will compromise drinking water sources and lead to outbreak of diseases of typhoid, cholera, and skin infections.

Elder Owusu has, therefore, called on the Ahafo Ano South East District Assembly to sanction the Assemblyman.

He also called on authorities that matter in the fight against galamsey to stop the self-acclaimed Odikro, the assemblyman and perpetrators of the menace in their tracks.

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