Unposted Health Officers Threaten May 12 Protest Over Recruitment Delays

Najat Adamu
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Unposted Health Officers Threaten May 12 Protest Over Recruitment Delays

Source: Nana Achiaa Aboagye

A group of unposted environmental health professionals in Ghana has announced plans to stage a protest on May 12 over delays in their recruitment, raising concerns about the impact on public health delivery.

The Unposted Environmental Health Officers and Assistants Association of Ghana says its members have been waiting for postings and financial clearance since 2021, with growing frustration over what they describe as prolonged inaction by authorities.

In a statement issued on May 4, 2026, the group disclosed that an earlier assurance from the Ministry of Local Government—given on December 15, 2025—to escalate their concerns to Cabinet has yet to produce any outcome.

“It has now been almost five months without any communication, and this silence is deeply concerning given the public health challenges Ghana faces,” the statement said.

The association also criticised what it sees as unequal treatment in public sector recruitment. While citing financial constraints from the Ministry of Finance as the reason for their delayed clearance, they pointed to recent approvals for the recruitment of thousands of teachers and nurses.

“This disparity is unacceptable and has angered our members,” the group stressed.

They argue that environmental health officers play a critical role in addressing sanitation, disease prevention, and overall public health—especially at a time when such challenges remain significant across the country.

The group has therefore warned that it will proceed with a demonstration at the Ministry of Local Government if no concrete steps are taken.

“We will hold a demonstration on May 12, 2026, to demand answers and accountability,” the statement added.

The planned protest highlights broader concerns about employment bottlenecks within Ghana’s public sector and the potential consequences for essential services if trained professionals remain unutilised.

CDD-Ghana Calls for Constitutional Backing of Special Prosecutor’s Office

Najat Adamu
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CDD-Ghana Calls for Constitutional Backing of Special Prosecutor’s Office

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) should be created as a part of the Constitution rather than only an Act of Parliament, according to the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana). The centre contends that this action is necessary to ensure the office has complete financial autonomy and independent prosecution authority.

The advice comes after a regional discussion that CDD-Ghana and the OSP arranged. The forum’s objectives were to identify current legislative gaps, increase stakeholder understanding of the OSP’s legal framework, and foster agreement on the necessary adjustments.

As part of a broader push to reinforce accountability institutions and deepen citizen engagement in anti-corruption efforts, the dialogue convened a diverse group of stakeholders.

It brought together a wide range of stakeholders, such as legislators and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs); traditional authorities and opinion leaders; media professionals; influencers; and youth/women organisations.

In order to guarantee that future policy suggestions are supported by evidence and take into account a variety of viewpoints, participants also examined and approved an eight-year assessment report of the OSP, which was completed by CDD-Ghana experts.

The research findings were presented by Dr. Zechariah Langnel, a lecturer and consultant at the University of Ghana. He pointed out that although Afrobarometer and Transparency International data show that corruption is still a significant issue in Ghana, the OSP is in a unique position to combat it.

“Our findings show that the OSP is the institution best placed to fight corruption effectively,” he stated.

He noted that public confidence in the attorney general’s office is often undermined by perceived political ties, making the independence of the OSP even more critical.

However, the report identified key weaknesses, particularly the OSP’s vulnerability due to its current legal status.

“If a new government feels they don’t need the office, they can simply scrap it. To be strategically positioned, its roots must be in the 1992 Constitution,” Dr Langnel explained.

He also highlighted that although the OSP has faced challenges over the years, its performance between 2023 and 2026 has been relatively stable and commendable, especially considering its limited budget.

The call to constitutionalise the OSP forms part of broader efforts to strengthen accountability institutions and deepen citizen participation in Ghana’s anti-corruption drive.

Ghana Climbs to 39th in 2026 Press Freedom Index, but Structural Challenges Persist

Najat Adamu
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Ghana Climbs to 39th in 2026 Press Freedom Index, but Structural Challenges Persist

Source: Dominic Hlordzi-General Secretary, Ghana Journalists Association

Ghana has climbed to 39th position out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders, achieving a score of 72.20—its strongest performance in five years.

The improvement marks a significant rise from 52nd place in 2025 and reinforces Ghana’s reputation as one of Africa’s more resilient media democracies. However, analysts caution that the progress reflects gradual recovery rather than a complete transformation.

Over the past five years, Ghana’s ranking has fluctuated—moving from 60th in 2022 to 62nd in 2023, then improving to 50th in 2024 before slipping again to 52nd in 2025. The jump to 39th in 2026 signals renewed confidence in the country’s media environment after a period of instability.

Within Africa, Ghana now ranks among stronger performers alongside countries such as South Africa, Seychelles, and Namibia, all of which are noted for relatively robust protections for media independence.

The gains have largely been attributed to improvements in the legal and political environment. Ghana’s constitutional guarantees for press freedom and the implementation of the Right to Information Act have strengthened access to public information. Nonetheless, bureaucratic delays and administrative bottlenecks continue to limit full transparency.

Despite reduced direct political interference, concerns remain about the influence of politically connected media ownership, which can subtly shape editorial independence.

Economic challenges also persist. Many media organisations continue to struggle with financial sustainability, uneven advertising revenue, and reliance on state advertising—factors that affect independence and long-term viability.

Socially, Ghana maintains a vibrant and diverse media landscape, with a wide range of radio, television, and digital platforms. However, increasing political polarisation is gradually eroding public trust, as sections of the media are perceived to be aligned with political interests.

Journalist safety remains another key concern. While indicators show improvement, incidents of harassment and attacks—particularly against reporters covering sensitive issues such as illegal mining and corruption—continue to be reported, with weak enforcement against perpetrators.

Media advocacy groups, including the Ghana Journalists Association, the Media Foundation for West Africa, and the National Media Commission, have played a vital role in promoting press freedom and pushing for reforms.

Experts say sustaining Ghana’s upward trajectory will require deeper structural changes, including stronger protections for journalists, improved prosecution of attacks, greater transparency in state advertising, and reforms to ensure the independence of regulatory bodies.

While the 2026 ranking represents a notable achievement, it also highlights the ongoing need to address underlying challenges in order to fully consolidate media freedom in Ghana.

BECE 2026: Okaikwei Central MP Tours Centres, Urges Candidates to Stay Focused

Najat Adamu
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BECE 2026: Okaikwei Central MP Tours Centres, Urges Candidates to Stay Focused

Source: Nana Achiaa Aboagye

The Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central, Patrick Yaw Boamah, has toured selected Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) centres within his constituency to encourage candidates and monitor the conduct of the exams.

His visit comes as more than 620,000 candidates nationwide sit for this year’s BECE under tightened supervision by the West African Examinations Council to curb examination malpractice.

During the tour, Mr. Boamah urged candidates to remain calm and confident. “Stay focused and do your best to make your families and Ghana proud,” he advised.

At St. Charles Lwanga Catholic School, he interacted with students and provided refreshments to boost their morale ahead of their papers.

The MP also endorsed the enhanced anti-cheating measures introduced by WAEC, describing them as necessary to protect the integrity of the examination process.

Centre supervisor Kofi Dodo confirmed a smooth start to the exams, noting that materials arrived on time and proceedings began without major challenges.

Some candidates expressed optimism about their performance, stating that the questions were fair, while a teacher from CAM’s Preparatory Junior High School affirmed that students were well-prepared.

At the Tesano Cluster of Schools, centre supervisor Issahaku Sualisu revealed that 161 candidates from four schools were participating in the exams at that location.

The nationwide examination, which began this week, will run until May 11, with candidates from over 20,000 schools taking part.

Mr. Boamah’s visit forms part of efforts to support candidates and ensure a smooth and credible examination process, as stricter supervision measures aim to uphold the credibility of one of Ghana’s most important national assessments.

Ashanti Fire Commander Advocates Body Cameras, Fast-Track Courts to Tackle Attacks on Firefighters

Najat Adamu
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Ashanti Fire Commander Advocates Body Cameras, Fast-Track Courts to Tackle Attacks on Firefighters

The Ashanti Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service, Peter Tetteh, has called for the adoption of modern technology and legal reforms to curb increasing attacks on firefighters.

Speaking during the International Firefighters’ Day celebration at the Ashanti Regional Fire Service Headquarters in Kumasi, he stressed that assaults on fire personnel remain a serious concern that must be urgently addressed.

He proposed the introduction of body cameras to help identify and prosecute individuals who harass or attack fire officers while they are on duty. According to him, such technology would not only provide critical evidence but also deter potential offenders.

The event, held under the theme “Attack on Firefighters and Equipment is Attack on Public Safety; End Assaults and Protect the Firefighter,” aimed to raise awareness about the need to safeguard fire service personnel and their equipment.

Providing statistics, ACFO II Tetteh disclosed that the Ashanti Region recorded 348 fire incidents in the first quarter of 2026, a 9.6% decrease from the 385 cases reported during the same period in 2025. He attributed the drop to intensified public education on fire safety.

Despite the improvement, he called for stronger legal backing, including the establishment of fast-track courts or dedicated legal teams to handle cases involving assaults on firefighters.

He concluded by emphasising that sustained public education, coupled with enhanced legal and technological measures, is essential to ensuring the safety of firefighters and improving emergency response efforts.

Kobby Kyei Invited to Cover Africa Forward Summit 2026 in Nairobi

Najat Adamu
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Kobby Kyei Invited to Cover Africa Forward Summit 2026 in Nairobi

Source: Asare-Bediako Addo

Ghanaian media personality Kobby Kyei has been invited by the French Embassy in Ghana to attend and cover the Africa Forward Summit 2026 scheduled for May 11–12 in Nairobi.

The summit, themed Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation & Growth, will bring together policymakers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and thought leaders from across Africa and France to explore collaborative strategies for sustainable development, technological advancement, and economic transformation.

As founder of Kobby Kyei Media, Kyei is expected to provide on-the-ground coverage, including exclusive interviews, real-time updates, and in-depth analysis from the event.

His participation highlights the growing role of independent African media in shaping conversations around continental progress and international partnerships.

“I am deeply honoured by the invitation from the French Embassy in Ghana,” Kyei said. “This summit represents a critical moment for Africa to define its future through strategic collaborations. I look forward to sharing the stories and ideas that will emerge from Nairobi.”

Organisers say the 2026 edition of the Africa Forward Summit will focus on practical solutions to Africa’s pressing challenges through strengthened Africa-France cooperation, positioning the event as a key platform for dialogue and action in East Africa.

Followers of Kobby Kyei Media are expected to receive continuous updates and exclusive content throughout the summit.

Ghana Advances Modern Music Production with Launch of Play House Studio in East Legon

Ebenezer Madugu
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Ghana Advances Modern Music Production with Launch of Play House Studio in East Legon

Ghana is steadily positioning itself as a hub for modern music production in West Africa, with growing investment in cutting-edge facilities designed to meet global standards.

This vision took a significant step forward with the launch of the Play House Music Studio in East Legon, a new creative space spearheaded by legendary Ghanaian DJ, DJ Mensah.

The studio, officially unveiled at a well-attended event, promises to bridge long-standing gaps in Ghana’s music production ecosystem—particularly in sound engineering quality. Addressing guests at the launch, DJ Mensah highlighted the motivation behind the project, pointing to years of concern about industry standards.

“Coming from a DJ, the sound that sometimes we hear is not what we expect. We are like 10 years behind when it comes to mixing and mastering,” he said. “These are some of the things we want to correct in the industry.”

The event was graced by Gurus in the music industry including Sarkodie, legendary music producer Kaywa, Trigmatic and Kobby Kyei.  

Play House Studio

Located in East Legon, the Play House Music Studio is equipped with modern recording, mixing, and mastering tools aimed at delivering world-class audio and visual production. Despite its modest physical size, the facility emphasizes efficiency and quality over scale.

“This is a place where you can come in with nothing,” DJ Mensah explained. “We have the best equipment for recording—from voice-overs to full music production. It’s not about having a big space; it’s about having the best tools and knowing how to use them.”

The studio offers a wide range of services, including live band recording, multitrack audio mixing, podcast production, and music video recording—all within a single integrated setup. Creatives can simultaneously produce audio and video content, reflecting the evolving demands of digital media and streaming platforms.

Play House Studio

Beyond production, the initiative also aims to nurture emerging talent. DJ Mensah emphasized the importance of giving back to the industry that shaped his career, recalling his own journey of learning through hands-on experience rather than formal training opportunities.

“There was nothing like this when I started. I learned on the streets—carrying equipment from small parties to big events. So we decided to create a space where young producers can come, learn, and work,” he noted.

The Play House Music Studio also includes opportunities for young producers to develop their craft, collaborate, and even market their beats, positioning it as both a creative and entrepreneurial hub.

Industry observers say the launch signals a broader shift within Ghana’s music sector, where stakeholders are increasingly investing in infrastructure to compete on the global stage. With facilities like Play House, artists and producers now have access to tools that meet international production standards without leaving the country.

As DJ Mensah concluded in his address, the opening marks not just the start of a business, but the realization of a long-held vision. “It’s been a long time coming, but we’re here today—and it’s official.”

Sarkodie congratulated DJ Mensah, saying PlayHouse Music Studio’s “mood and set up everything is incredible.” He urged  artists to use the studio for recording quality songs. 

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu

Otumfuo Honours Angela List for Trailblazing Leadership in Mining at 27th Enstoolment Anniversary

Najat Adamu
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Otumfuo Honours Angela List for Trailblazing Leadership in Mining at 27th Enstoolment Anniversary

Source: GBC News

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has honoured Angela List, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Nguvu Mining Limited, for her outstanding contributions to Africa’s mining sector.

The recognition came during a high-profile ceremony marking the 27th anniversary of the Asantehene’s enstoolment at the Manhyia Palace. The event, held under the theme “Advancing Peace and Sustainable Economic Development Through Royal Vision,” brought together key national and international figures.

Angela List was among several distinguished personalities honoured with a commemorative gold coin for their contributions to socio-economic development and national security. Other awardees included President John Dramani Mahama, former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, and Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno.

The ceremony was graced by Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who served as Special Guest of Honour.

In her remarks, Angela List dedicated the honour to the nearly 3,000 employees of Nguvu Mining Limited and its affiliated companies operating across Ghana and other African countries.

She acknowledged the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated mining industry, noting the need for resilience and determination. “Nobody gives you an inch, but I’m committed to paving the way for more women in Africa to become mining entrepreneurs,” she said.

Angela List also expressed optimism about the future of women in the sector, highlighting plans to support education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment through scholarships, infrastructure development, and financial assistance for traders.

She reaffirmed her commitment to transforming the mining industry by making a meaningful impact on communities and promoting inclusive growth across the continent.

16 Nigerian Teens Rescued from Trafficking Network in Ghana

Najat Adamu
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16 Nigerian Teens Rescued from Trafficking Network in Ghana

Sixteen Nigerian teenagers trafficked into Ghana under the guise of job opportunities have been rescued in a joint operation involving Engage Now Africa, the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, and the Department of Social Welfare.

The rescue operation was carried out following a tip-off from a Good Samaritan in Suhum, who alerted authorities to suspicious activities involving young girls believed to have been trafficked from Nigeria.

According to Lydia Ohenewa Sarah, a consultant with EMS and Programme Manager at Engage Now Africa, the victims had been lured with promises of lucrative employment opportunities but were instead subjected to exploitation in locations including Accra and Suhum.

Investigations revealed that while some of the girls were forced into labour, others were subjected to sexual exploitation, highlighting the severity of the trafficking operation.

Ms. Ohenewa attributed the rise in such cases to factors including poverty, unemployment, and the growing demand for cheap labour and commercial sex services.

She commended the collaborative efforts of the security agencies and social welfare officers in rescuing the victims and facilitating their rehabilitation. The girls have since received medical care and logistical support, with arrangements underway for their safe return to Nigeria.

In partnership with United Way Ghana, Engage Now Africa has signed a memorandum of understanding to support the reintegration of the victims into their communities.

Ms. Ohenewa also warned parents and guardians to remain vigilant, noting that traffickers often exploit trust within families and communities. She further cautioned young people, especially women, to be wary of online recruitment schemes that promise opportunities abroad but lead to exploitation.

As part of its prevention efforts, Engage Now Africa has developed educational materials aimed at raising awareness about the tactics used in human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Black Princesses Rally to Beat Uganda 2-1 in U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifier First Leg

Najat Adamu
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Black Princesses Rally to Beat Uganda 2-1 in U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifier First Leg

Source: Justice Adusi Poku

Ghana’s Ghana U-20 women’s national team staged an impressive comeback to defeat Uganda U-20 women’s national team 2-1 in the first leg of the final round of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Coach Charles Sampson’s side began strongly, dominating possession and creating early chances in front of their home supporters. However, it was Uganda who broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute, as captain Agnes Nabukenya capitalised on a defensive lapse to put the visitors ahead.

Ghana responded with increased urgency, with Margret Agyapomaa and Agnes Yeboah both going close, but Ugandan goalkeeper Lillian Nakiirya produced key saves to preserve the lead before halftime.

The hosts found their equaliser ten minutes into the second half when substitute Priscilla Mensah headed home from a well-delivered cross by Jessica Appiah Asamoah.

With momentum on their side, the Black Princesses pushed forward and were rewarded when another substitute, Latifa Abesik, struck the winning goal to seal a vital first-leg advantage.

“I’m happy that we came back from a goal down to secure a win at home,” Coach Sampson said after the match, adding that his team would regroup and prepare thoroughly for the return leg.

The decisive second leg is scheduled for May 9, 2026, at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru, near Kampala. The winner over two legs will move a step closer to securing one of Africa’s two slots at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland later this year.

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