Ablakwa: US Deportees MoU Isn’t a Full Agreement

Najat Adamu
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Ablakwa: US Deportees MoU Isn’t a Full Agreement

The Cabinet has authorized Ghana’s involvement in a third-country deportation agreement with the United States, which entails accepting certain West African deportees, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

Mr. Ablakwa clarified that the existing agreement is merely a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and not a legally enforceable agreement during his remarks at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, September 15.

“Let me emphasise that under this understanding with the United States, Ghana must first independently vet the background of those the U.S. intends to deport, to satisfy ourselves that they do not pose any threat to the security of our country and that they cannot harm our citizens,” The minister stated.

“The Mahama administration would never compromise the safety and well-being of Ghanaians,” he said, emphasizing that stringent measures had been put in place to ensure that hardened criminals are not admitted into the nation. The Minister claims that the Attorney General reviewed the decision and Cabinet deliberated it carefully before approving it.

“By established convention, MoUs are not sent to Parliament for ratification. I have inherited hundreds of MoUs from the previous administration, which were not sent to Parliament for ratification”, he explained.

May I assure the nation that if this initial understanding is elevated into a full-blown agreement, we shall not hesitate to comply with Article 75 of the 1992 Constitution by proceeding to Parliament for ratification,” He added.

The Minority in Parliament expressed concerns over the weekend and called for the suspension of what it called an unconstitutional pact, which prompted his remarks.

With reference to humanitarian concerns and Ghana’s Pan-African ideals, President John Dramani Mahama had previously affirmed that his country had taken in a small number of West Africans who had been deported from the United States.

The initial group of 14 deportees, which included Gambians and Nigerians, had reached Accra, he disclosed, and were subsequently helped to return to their places of origin.

President Mahama’s earlier statement reads: “The government of Ghana took the principled and humanitarian decision to accept the limited number of West African nationals deported from the United States under exceptional circumstances, in line with Ghana’s long-standing Pan-African ideals and unwavering commitment to regional solidarity.”

Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that in exchange for its collaboration, Ghana had not received and would not pursue any material or financial gain.

He made it clear that the agreement does not imply support for President Donald Trump’s immigration policies in the United States.“Our decision is grounded purely on humanitarian principles and Pan-African solidarity to offer temporary refuge where needed, to prevent further human suffering, and to maintain our credibility as a responsible regional actor. Ghana’s decision must be understood as an act of Pan-African empathy. It is not transactional like Rwanda, Eswatini, Uganda, or South Sudan,”

“Since the days of our forebears, Ghana has hosted freedom fighters, welcomed Africans in the diaspora, offered them safe haven, resources, citizenship, and even passports. That is why we are seen as the maker of Pan-Africanism. We shall not depart from that inspiring track record.”

Regarding other topics, Mr. Ablakwa emphasized the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s Operation Retrieve and Account for Lands (ORAL) initiative’s advancements.

The strategy, he added, had canceled incorrectly granted contracts, including a $3.5 million repair agreement in Abidjan, restored public lands at the Airport Residential Area, and prevented the unlawful transfer of diplomatic buildings in Lagos and Lusaka.

Adding that in order to guarantee value for money and transparency, stringent procurement regulations are now in place, he stated; “Every single contract has gone through a competitive, credible process — from passport courier services to cleaning contracts. Competitive procurement is now the mainstay.”

Citing President Mahama’s recent visit to Singapore, where a bilateral framework was agreed to help improve Ghana’s anti-corruption agencies, including EOCO, CHRAJ, OSP, and the Police CID, Mr. Ablakwa noted that ORAL had garnered international support.

Madina MP Sosu Donates Motorcycles, Streetlights to Boost Community Security

Ebenezer Madugu
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Madina MP Sosu Donates Motorcycles, Streetlights to Boost Community Security

The Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening security in the constituency, with a donation of motorcycles and streetlights to support local law enforcement agencies.

As part of his ongoing Accounting to the People tour, Hon. Sosu presented 13 motorcycles and 40 streetlights to the security services operating within Madina, Oyarifa, and surrounding areas. The gesture, according to the MP, is aimed at enhancing mobility, increasing police visibility, and improving crime prevention efforts across the constituency.

Madina MP Sosu

Speaking during a visit to the Madina Fire Station,Hon. Sosu described the donation as a reflection of his leadership values—transparency, accountability, and consistency.

Madina MP Sosu

The MP emphasized that the intervention aligns with former President John Mahama’s vision for a 24-hour economy, adding that secure, well-lit communities are essential for sustained economic activity and national growth.

Madina MP Sosu

He further noted that since returning to Parliament earlier this year, he has been able to provide a total of 30 motorcycles to various agencies—an achievement he said was not feasible during his previous term in opposition.

Madina MP Sosu

Receiving the donation, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Precious Agbenorwu, the Second-in-Command at the Madina Divisional Command, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, and other senior officers.

“We are grateful to our affable and hardworking MP. Fighting crime is a shared responsibility, and with these motorbikes, we can now access the nooks and crannies of our jurisdiction more efficiently,” ASP Agbenorwu stated.

The donation is part of broader efforts by the MP to enhance infrastructure, support local institutions, and improve service delivery throughout the Madina constituency.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

A Silent War Drum: Provocative Distortion of Ashanti History

Ebenezer Madugu
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A Silent War Drum: Provocative Distortion of Ashanti History

Conflicts often begin quietly – what I term “undercurrent.” Those who have studied conflict management would recognize this as the “Latent” stage of conflict, the first of the five known stages.

At this point, the issues have not fully surfaced, but one can clearly sense the underlying tensions and triggers that could eventually lead to open conflict.

In my view, this is the most crucial stage. The early signs must be identified and addressed head-on, and dealt with proactively, to prevent escalation. I dare say it is the worst stage of conflict. Unfortunately, most conflict managers overlook this stage because the brewing or buried tensions often never make it to the open. But when they do, they tend to erupt suddenly, without warning or signal. Rwanda remains a chilling case study.

Currently in Ghana, conflict managers appear quiet, hypocritically silent, or perhaps waiting to make some financial gain out of one such latent conflict: that between the Ashantis and the Dormaahene. I deliberately restrict it to Dormaa because, interestingly, it seems not all Bonos are directly involved; many are only being dragged into the matter because of how it is being framed and propagated.

We can all agree that chieftaincy and ethnic conflicts can be likened to religious or belief-based conflicts. In Ghana, the Ashantis are arguably the most powerful and influential ethnic group, with authority and recognition extending beyond Ghana’s borders. We have all observed, in recent times, the depth of their influence in governance, diplomacy, and even international recognition.

We have also witnessed the deep love, loyalty, and trust the people of Ashanti place in their King and the Golden Stool. This reverence can be compared to the profound respect that Muslims and Christians have for their respective faiths and scriptures. An attack on the King of Ashanti or their sacred heritage, the Golden Stool, is perceived as a grave offense, much like how any affront to revered religious symbols or texts, such as the Holy Quran or the Bible, is regarded with seriousness and deep emotion. To attempt to discredit or disrespect the Golden Stool is to provoke the deepest sensitivities of the Ashanti people. Just imagine, for a moment, the potential consequences of such an act.

If the country, along with those tasked with peace and conflict management, turns a blind eye to what is happening, the risks could be severe. The persistent attacks, misinformation, and attempts by the Dormaahene to discredit and downplay the sacred Golden Stool of the Ashanti Kingdom should be condemned without reservation by all voices, including the Peace Council, publicly and decisively.

The cost of open condemnation and timely rebuke is nothing compared to the cost of future escalation, should the Ashantis one day rise in defence of their king, kingdom, and sacred heritage. Rwanda began with words broadcast on radio. We must not allow social media to spark another Rwanda anywhere else in the world.

Speaking truth to power is an integral part of conflict management. Ghana’s history cannot be told without acknowledging the rich legacy of the Ashanti Kingdom and the symbolism of the Golden Stool. Any attempt to discredit this heritage does not only diminish the Ashanti identity but also undermines Ghana’s collective national history. The two are deeply intertwined and inseparable.

It is, therefore, regrettable that the Dormaahene chose the wrong platform to advance such a claim. Instead of using the occasion to celebrate the culture, history, and people of the Bono Traditional Area, he diverted attention to a divisive narrative. This platform should have been a stage to highlight Bono’s unique heritage, showcase its tourism potential, and attract investment and global recognition.

By missing this opportunity, the chance to harness the cultural, economic, and developmental benefits that such visibility brings was lost. Ghana thrives when every traditional area projects its strengths in unity, not in attempts to erase or diminish the history of others.

By: Nana Yaw Sarpong

Partey Delighted by Atletico’s Comeback Effort Despite Loss

Najat Adamu
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Partey Delighted by Atletico’s Comeback Effort Despite Loss

Despite his team’s first loss of the season, Thomas Partey stated his happiness about rejoining Atletico Madrid with Villarreal.

“I feel good. I’m happy to be playing, and I’m happy with the team, with the coaches and everything. I’m happy to be back here playing again in Wanda, and I think it’s been a long time, and I’m happy”, he said.

Following Atletico Madrid’s 2-0 La Liga victory over Villarreal on September 13, 2025, at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium—fondly referred to as Wanda Metropolitano—Partey made these remarks.

Atletico Madrid moved up to ninth place in the rankings with their first La Liga victory of the season.

Nico Gonzalez doubled the lead with a strong header in the 52nd minute, his first goal for the team, while Pablo Barrios scored early in the 9th minute, taking advantage of a defensive blunder by Villarreal.

Alberto Moleiro’s near misses and Nicolas Pepe’s incredible free kick that hit the crossbar were two of Villarreal’s standout chances.

During his fruitful career with Atletico Madrid, which spanned from 2013 to 2020, Partey made 188 appearances under Diego Simeone.

He joined Arsenal in 2020 for £45 million, and he has been performing well ever since. When his contract with Atletico Madrid expires in June 2025, there are reports that he may return to the Spanish team.

BoG’s MPC Meets as Inflation Eases, Currency Sway

Najat Adamu
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BoG’s MPC Meets as Inflation Eases, Currency Sway

Later today [Monday, September 15, 2025], the Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee will begin its 126th regular meeting, concentrating on significant economic events.

Inflation has been steadily declining, and the cedi has recently somewhat declined on the foreign currency market.

In addition to reviewing the state of the economy, the meeting will establish the central bank’s policy stance.

The Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee lowered the policy rate by 300 basis points to 25% during its most recent meeting in July. It followed five months in a row in which inflation decreased.

Although the market anticipates another rate decrease this month, bolstered by favorable base effects, the Committee faces risks that could soften its policy stance, as consumer inflation continues to decline to 11.5 percent in August, already below the year-end objective of 11.9 percent.

Tensions in international trade and a possible increase in utility tariffs continue to be positive risks to the inflation outlook. The Committee may be careful with the rate in light of this.

Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama has brushed down the recent deterioration in the local currency. Instead of seeing a reversal of previous stability advances, he ascribes the blips to seasonal trade pressures.

“Illegal Mining Is Not A Livelihood Crisis, It is Criminality” – Awula Serwah

Najat Adamu
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“Illegal Mining Is Not A Livelihood Crisis, It is Criminality” – Awula Serwah

Environmental activist Awula Serwah has delivered a strong message on Bullet TV’s Morning Target Show, condemning the unchecked rise of illegal mining (galamsey) and its devastating impact on Ghana’s water bodies.

According to her, the surge in water bills is directly linked to the destruction of natural reserves, which she described as “clear criminal activity.”

“When laws are broken, law enforcement is supposed to deal with it. Why are we allowing illegal marauders to continue poisoning our water bodies while we sit idly by, talking about finding livelihoods for them?” she asked.

She likened the situation to armed robbery:

“When armed robbers come to your door, you don’t ask if they have a livelihood. You stop the robbery immediately. Ghana is burning. We are using buckets of water to deal with the fire. We need the fire service to come and deal with the burning country.”

Her remarks highlight the growing frustration among citizens and activists who say the government must act decisively to curb galamsey before it completely cripples the nation’s future.

By Kwaku Quansah

Greater Support Needed to Boost Ghana’s Comedy Industry – Hon. Ike

Ebenezer Madugu
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Greater Support Needed to Boost Ghana’s Comedy Industry – Hon. Ike

Ghana’s comedy scene is evolving as younger talents increasingly turn to digital platforms to reach broader audiences. One of these emerging talents is Isaac Kofi Dzokpo, known popularly as Hon Ike, who is establishing himself as a promising new face in digital comedy.

In a recent interview, Hon Ike called on corporate Ghana to play a more significant role in supporting the creative sector, particularly young comedians who face considerable challenges in accessing resources to develop their craft. “Comedy in Ghana has immense potential, but aspiring comedians need more than just passion; they require platforms, mentorship, and sponsorship,” he stated.

“If corporate bodies partner with us, they can help shape the industry and create opportunities that benefit not only comedians but also the country’s cultural landscape.” He suggested that investments in comedy festivals, digital content sponsorships, and training programs would significantly enhance the sector.

“We need structured avenues where comedians can showcase their talent locally and internationally. That’s how we can compete on the global stage,” he added. “At the end of the day, comedy is not just about laughter,” Hon Ike said. “It is also about reflecting society, raising conversations, and finding creative ways to make people think. With the right support, Ghanaian comedy can become a global force.”

Hon Ike’s skits, often inspired by everyday Ghanaian life, have gained recognition for their humor and relatability. His short videos, which portray family disputes, neighborhood interactions, and social issues with a comic twist, continue to resonate with audiences online. Industry observers note that the rise of creators like Hon Ike reflects a broader shift in the comedy industry, with audiences moving from traditional live performances and theater to digital-first storytelling. Mobile and social media platforms have become essential spaces for new talents to connect directly with their fans.

In addition to his digital content, Hon Ike has also participated in mainstream productions. He appeared in Netflix’s Beasts of No Nation and later starred in the Ghanaian comedy film Diamond Race. These roles highlighted his ability to transition smoothly between drama and comedy, establishing him as a versatile actor rather than just an internet personality.

Beyond entertainment, Hon Ike is also a journalist who covers politics, health, education, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His dual roles in journalism and comedy reflect a growing trend in Ghana’s creative industry, where artists increasingly engage in public discourse.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

FixTheCountry announces anti-galamsey vigil and march in Accra

Ebenezer Madugu
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FixTheCountry announces anti-galamsey vigil and march in Accra

The Convenor of FixTheCountry, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has announced that the movement will hold a vigil on Sunday, September 21, at Revolution Square in Accra, to protest the ongoing environmental destruction caused by illegal mining (galamsey).

He disclosed the plan in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, 15 September 2025, stressing the urgent need for collective action to protect Ghana’s environment.

In his post, Barker-Vormawor framed the fight against galamsey as a moral and spiritual obligation. “The responsibility to protect and preserve the environment is by divine assignment, ours as a people,” he wrote, adding that the issue transcends electoral politics.

“Our responsibility to end galamsey does not end at elections. Nor does it begin after our party loses one. This is bigger than petty politics,” he stated.

The Convenor also revealed that the vigil would be followed by a public march on Monday, 22 September, a national holiday, to further draw attention to what he described as an “environmental crisis of urgent proportions.”

He called on citizens from all walks of life to participate and demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding the nation’s natural resources.

FixTheCountry has long been a vocal critic of successive governments’ handling of illegal mining, often arguing that political interference undermines enforcement. Barker-Vormawor’s latest call seeks to channel public frustration into civic action.

“On Sunday 21st September, we will have a vigil at the Revolution Square, and on Monday 22nd (a holiday), there will be a march, calling attention to the urgency of our environmental crisis,” his post concluded.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

Celebrated Apostle and Industrialist, Safo Kantanka Dead

Ebenezer Madugu
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Celebrated Apostle and Industrialist, Safo Kantanka Dead

The Safo family and the Kristo Asafo Church confirmed that Apostle Dr Kwadwo Safo has died.


A statement said he passed on peacefully on Thursday, September 11, 2025.


He was widely celebrated as a man of God, innovator, philanthropist, and industrialist.


“With profound sorrow and deepest grief, the Safo family and the Kristo Asafo Church announce the peaceful passing of Ghana’s beloved man of God, the greatest technological icon, philanthropist, agriculturalist and industrialist,” the statement read.


Apostle Safo, revered as a trailblazer in Ghana’s industrial and technological space, was also known for his philanthropic works and his role in advancing indigenous innovation through his Kantanka brand.


The family described him as a “true genius, a beacon of hope for many, and a father to the fatherless.”


The statement, signed by his daughter and former MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo, added that funeral arrangements would be announced in due course and appealed to the public to respect the privacy of the family during this period of mourning.


Apostle Safo leaves behind a legacy of faith, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to technology, agriculture, and community development.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

Ghana Moves to Finalise Blue Economy Strategy After National Stakeholder Consultation

Najat Adamu
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Ghana Moves to Finalise Blue Economy Strategy After National Stakeholder Consultation

Source: Karen Antwi

Ghana has taken a significant step toward advancing its blue economy agenda with a national consultation on its draft Blue Economy Strategy, bringing together government officials, industry stakeholders, and civil society groups to shape a long-term policy framework.

The consultation forms part of efforts to finalise a comprehensive strategy aimed at unlocking economic opportunities from oceans, rivers, and coastal ecosystems, while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Speaking at the event, Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Emelia Arthur described the initiative as a “national vision” focused on balancing economic growth with environmental protection. She noted that the strategy is intended to open new economic frontiers while safeguarding ecosystems that support livelihoods.

Officials say the policy is designed to drive job creation, strengthen food security, and promote innovation across key sectors including fisheries, tourism, and maritime transport.

The draft strategy is backed by extensive technical work carried out by a multi-sectoral committee and expert groups, which have developed both an implementation plan and a communication framework. Authorities emphasise that the approach is grounded in scientific evidence and aligned with Ghana’s broader sustainable development objectives.

Key priorities outlined in the plan include fostering innovation, improving food systems, and ensuring the long-term health of marine and inland water resources. The consultation process is also expected to build consensus among stakeholders and ensure the final strategy reflects national priorities and local realities.

Ghana joins a growing number of African countries leveraging the blue economy—defined as the sustainable use of ocean and water resources for economic growth—as a pathway to development. If successfully implemented, the strategy could position the country as a regional leader in sustainable ocean governance while delivering both economic and environmental benefits for coastal communities.

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