Ayawaso Central Mourns the Passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings

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The Ayawaso Central Constituency has joined the rest of the nation in mourning the passing of Her Excellency Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana and a towering figure in the nation’s political and social history.

In a heartfelt message, Hon. Harry Otu Hesse, Constituency Chairman for Ayawaso Central, extended the sympathies of the constituency to the Rawlings family, the National Democratic Party (NDP), and the people of Ghana.

“To the NDP and the good people of Ghana, we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of Her Excellency Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings (Mrs. Rawlings), a stalwart of Ghana’s history and a pillar of compassion, selflessness, and dedication,” the statement read.

Hon. Hesse described the late former First Lady as a beacon of empowerment, particularly for women and the vulnerable, whose tireless advocacy transformed lives and advanced gender equality in Ghana.

He further urged Ghanaians to draw inspiration from her courage and lifelong commitment to public service, saying, “May her legacy of empowerment live on and continue to shape the future of our nation.”

The message concluded with words of comfort to the bereaved family: “May the love and support of family and friends bring comfort and strength to the Rawlings family. May her soul rest in peace, and may we draw inspiration from her life to build a better Ghana for all.”

The passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings marks the end of an era for many Ghanaians who remember her as a symbol of strength, resilience, and patriotism. Her legacy, especially in championing women’s rights and social development, is expected to continue inspiring future generations.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

Profile: Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings — A Trailblazer for Women’s Empowerment

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Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was a bold and visionary leader who dedicated her life to empowering women, advancing social justice, and shaping Ghana’s political history.

  • Full Name: Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings
  • Date of Birth: November 17, 1948
  • Place of Birth: Cape Coast, Central Region, Ghana

Education:

  • Ghana International School
    • Achimota School – where she met Jerry John Rawlings
    • University of Science and Technology (now KNUST) – studied Art and Textiles
    • London College of Arts – Diploma in Interior Design
    • Additional studies at GIMPA, Johns Hopkins University, and the Institute for Policy Studies, USA

Public Life:

  • First Lady of Ghana: 1979 and 1981–2001
    • Founder and President of the 31st December Women’s Movement (1982)
    • Advocate for women’s empowerment, child development, and family welfare
    • Instrumental in promoting the Intestate Succession Law and women’s participation in governance

Political Career:

  • First woman to run for President of Ghana (2016) under the National Democratic Party (NDP)
    • Continued political engagement and advocacy for social change

Personal Life:

  • Married to former President Jerry John Rawlings (1977–2020)
    • Mother of four: Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina, and Kimathi

Legacy:

  • Remembered as a bold, visionary leader
  • A trailblazer for women’s rights and empowerment in Ghana
  • Her work continues to inspire generations of women leaders

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings Reportedly Dead

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Ghana’s former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, has reportedly passed away at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital.

Sources close to the family confirmed the development, though an official statement from the Rawlings family is yet to be released.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, 76, was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings. She served as First Lady from 1979 to 2001 and was well known for her tireless advocacy for women’s empowerment through the 31st December Women’s Movement, which she founded in 1982.

A pioneering figure in Ghanaian politics, she made history in 2016 as the first woman to run for President of Ghana on the ticket of the National Democratic Party (NDP).

Beyond politics, she was admired for her leadership, resilience, and dedication to improving the lives of women and children across the country.

More details on her passing and funeral arrangements are expected to be officially communicated by the family in due course.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

One Shot Dead as Police Round Up 34 After Ahwerease Festival Clash

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What began as a sacred ritual to lift the ban on noise making ahead of the Odwira Festival turned chaotic in Aburi on Wednesday, October 22.

A disagreement between two traditional authorities — the Abokomahene of the Asona family, Nana Semenyia Akrofa, and the Bemuhene of Ahwerease — over who should lead the ceremony, quickly spiralled into violence.

As tempers flared, some youth at the scene began firing gunshots, leaving four people injured. One was later pronounced dead. The others are being treated at the Aburi Hospital.

Police have since arrested 34 suspects and launched investigations into the deadly incident, Superintendent Ebenezer Tetteh of the Eastern Regional Police Command confirmed.

One Shot Dead as Police Round Up 34 After Ahwerease Festival Clash

Thanks to swift police intervention, peace has returned to the area after the violent confrontation. Thirty-four people are now in custody at the Aburi Police Station, helping with ongoing investigations. Two firearms — a pump-action gun and a pistol — were seized during the operation.

Superintendent Ebenezer Tetteh assured the public that the police will pursue justice fully once the investigation wraps up.

“This is to serve as a deterrent to others who may be bent on fomenting trouble and creating problems during this year’s Odwira Festival. The police will ensure that nobody takes the law into their own hands, and the security of the area will be maintained before, during, and after the festival.” Superintendent Tetteh cautioned.

“We are going to ensure that any miscreant who attempts to cause trouble is quickly arrested and dealt with according to the law. We want to assure everyone that peace will be maintained so that people can go about their activities without fear or hindrance.” He added.

Lack of clear guidelines raises the possibility of accidents and fatalities during these festivities. According to Ahwererase Osiahene Nana Owusu Anakwah Ntow, who confirmed the occurrence, traditional authorities have taken action to bring about enduring peace in the region.

“We are engaging all stakeholders to ensure calm is maintained and to prevent a recurrence of such incidents especially us we celebrate the Odwira festival,” He said.

While residents of the Ahwerease township continue to live in shock, an uneasy peace has returned. To prevent retaliatory attacks, Samuel Anoff Agyiri, the assemblyman for the Oware Ahwerase electoral area, has urged for a calm Odwira festival and increased police presence.

African Scholars Gather in Singapore for International Education Conference

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The Admission Experts International Multidisciplinary Journal for Research, Publications, and Conferences (AEIMJRPC), in partnership with the Philippine Christian University (PCU), has successfully hosted yet another highly impactful International Education Conference under the theme: “The Africa We Are Building: Emerging Scholars Advancing Knowledge, Driving Change for a Transformative and Resilient New Africa.”

Held from October 18–20, 2025, at PSB Academy in Singapore, the conference brought together a distinguished assembly of PhD graduates and candidates from across Botswana, Ghana, Namibia, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and the Philippines, creating a vibrant atmosphere of intellectual exchange and continental collaboration.

The Special Guest of Honour, Professor Dr. Anicia Peters, Chief Executive Officer of the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST) of Namibia, delivered an inspiring address emphasizing the importance of African scholars owning their narratives.

“Africa’s researchers must tell their own stories — not wait for others to interpret our experiences for us,” she urged, drawing resounding applause from participants.

Also in attendance was Mr. Saddick Adams, a renowned Ghanaian journalist and development advocate, who encouraged participants to remain steadfast in their belief in Africa’s potential.

“The transformation of Africa begins with believing in Africa,” he stated, challenging scholars to develop research-driven solutions that will shape the continent’s future.

Adding his voice, Dr. James Antwi, Adjunct Professor at the Philippine Christian University and Director of the Ghana Adventist Health Services, called for greater collaboration and funding opportunities among researchers.

“Research becomes meaningful only when it improves lives. Let us work together, share ideas, and seek partnerships that can bring our findings to life,” he noted.

Dr. Mohammed Sumaila, Chief Executive Officer of AEIMJRPC and host of the event, encouraged participants to humanize their research through storytelling and social relevance.

“Behind every research is a story — a story that connects to people, inspires change, and solves real problems. Let’s tell those stories boldly,” Dr. Sumaila said.

He also underscored the importance of networking and collaboration, highlighting that conferences like AEIMJRPC’s are not just academic gatherings but platforms for continental transformation.

In a major highlight of the event, Dr. Sumaila officially launched the Africa Alumni of Philippine Universities (AAPU) — an initiative with the mission to connect, support, and inspire African alumni of Philippine universities through professional networking, academic collaboration, mentorship, and community impact programs.

The three-day conference concluded with renewed energy and optimism among participants, who pledged to champion research that drives Africa’s progress and resilience in an ever-changing global landscape.

Atinkaonline.com

Oil Palm Association Urges Government to Tighten Border Control

The Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana (OPDAG) has called on authorities to intensify efforts t6o curb the smuggling of illegal vegetable oil into the country.

The association believes the illegal trade threatens local production, endangers public health and undermines Ghana’s economic growth.

At a media engagement held at the Ghana international press center in Accra on Wednesday 22nd October,2025, Mr. Kwame Paul Amaning, the President of the Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana, highlighted the increasing cases of unapproved vegetable oil products entering Ghana’s markets.

According to Mr. Amaning, these products often evade taxes, fail to meet national quality standards and sell at cheaper prices- putting local producers at a disadvantage.

Oil Palm Association

Mr. Amaning and all the members of OPDAG are urging government agencies, including Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and Custom Division of the Ghana’s Revenue Authority to strengthen border surveillance and enforce strict penalties against importers involved in such practices.

The association also appealed to the media to support in raising public awareness on the dangers of consuming unregulated vegetable oils.

OPDAG aim is to protect the local palm oil industry and ensure the safety of consumers across the country.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Asumaniwaa Jessica Afia

CGI Calls on North East Regional Minister

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The Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI), Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, has emphasized the need to strengthen collaboration particularly with neighboring countries and border communities to make the region less attractive to criminal elements.

He advocated for a multi-stakeholder approach in addressing the menace of illicit drug trafficking and other transnational crimes, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding national security.

Mr. Amadu made these remarks during a courtesy call on the North East Regional Minister, Hon. Abrahim Tia, in his office on the second day of his tour of the region.

As part of the engagement, the CGI appealed to the Minister to assist the Service in acquiring land for the construction of a functional Regional Headquarters to enhance operational efficiency.

On his part, Hon. Tia strongly condemned the recent attack on two immigration officers at Gbintri, describing the act as unacceptable and a threat to national peace and security. He urged law enforcement agencies to pursue the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Immigration officers on the ground to ensure the effective discharge of their duties. He assured them that they are not alone and that the Regional Coordinating Council stands firmly behind them.

Hon. Tia received the CGI in the company of all Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) within the region.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Vincent Kwofie

Bawumia’s Conduct Shows He’s Bound to Win — NPP’s Dormaa West Chairman

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Confidence in the leadership of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia continues to grow among members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), with Dormaa West Constituency Chairman, Kwame Owusu, declaring that the Former Vice President’s temperament and style of leadership are clear indications of a man destined to win.

During Dr. Bawumia’s visit to Dormaa West as part of his Bono Region tour, Mr. Owusu praised the NPP flagbearer for his patience and maturity in handling political attacks, saying his focus on unity rather than division sets him apart.

“Everything indicates that Dr. Bawumia is poised to win. This is evident in his conduct throughout the campaign—he does not respond to insults because he understands the greater responsibility of uniting everyone after the elections,” he stated.

Mr. Owusu further recalled that the party’s morale was low before Dr. Bawumia’s election as flagbearer ahead of the 2024 polls but credited him with reviving the NPP’s spirit and performance in the last election.

“If we are to be truthful, before Dr. Bawumia was elected as flagbearer ahead of the 2024 polls, the party was in disarray. I believe we would not have secured more than 20 percent of the votes had the elections been held at that time,” he said.

He applauded the national executives for holding an early congress, explaining that the decision will give the flagbearer enough time to mobilize support across the country.

“We also want to thank the party’s leadership for organizing an early congress. This will give him enough time to prepare and campaign effectively,” he added.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Vincent Kwofie

Education Ministry Probes Alleged Bribery in School Placement Process

The Ministry of Education has announced that it has begun urgent investigations into allegations of bribery in the ongoing school placement exercise, following reports that some individuals may have paid money to secure placements for students.

The move comes after media reports cited the Member of Parliament for Akrofuom, Hon. Joseph Azumah, who claimed that a parent approached him seeking help to gain admission for their child and later presented evidence suggesting that GH₵30,000 had been paid to secure a school placement.

In response, the Ministry said it views these allegations—and similar claims recently made by Mr. Richard Asamoah Mensah, Secretary of the Construction and Building Workers’ Union of the Ghana Trades Union Congress (TUC)—with the “utmost seriousness and concern.”

According to the statement signed by Dr. Clement Apaak, Deputy Minister for Education, the Minister for Education has convened a meeting with National Security and formally referred the allegations for urgent and thorough investigation.

“The Ministry is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and fairness in the school placement process,” the statement said. “Any individual found to have engaged in acts of bribery, extortion, or manipulation of the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) will face the full rigours of the law.”

The Ministry also called on Hon. Azumah, Mr. Mensah, and any other persons with credible information or evidence to cooperate with investigators to ensure accountability and transparency.

The statement reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the placement system and ensuring that access to secondary education remains free, fair, and merit-based for all Ghanaian children.

2026 World Cup: Ghana Engages US, Canada on Visa Access for Black Stars Supporters

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Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has disclosed that Ghana is engaging in diplomatic consultations with the United States and Canada to design streamlined visa arrangements for citizens attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Mr. Ablakwa noted that the discussions, held separately with both missions, form part of Ghana’s broader preparations to ensure smooth travel for fans and stakeholders supporting the Black Stars.

The engagements brought together senior officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Youth and Sports, the GFA President Mr. Kurt Okraku, and representatives from the two North American governments, led by Acting US Ambassador Rolf Olson and Acting Canadian High Commissioner Dennis Roussel.

For Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the meetings weren’t just about paperwork — they were about building bridges for fans eager to support the Black Stars on the global stage.

He explained that the discussions focused on creating a shared framework to simplify visa procedures, improve coordination, and ensure smooth travel for all involved.

Talks also centred on special visa arrangements for fans, team officials, and players — separate from the regular visa application channels.

One of the most welcome outcomes, Mr. Ablakwa revealed, was confirmation that the U.S. had lifted its single-entry visa restriction on Ghanaians, now allowing for multiple-entry permits. The change will enable fans to move freely across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico during the 2026 World Cup.

In a lighter moment, the minister shared his gratitude to GFA President Kurt Okraku for gifting embassy officials Black Stars jerseys. He added that a meeting with Mexican officials was scheduled for Friday to round off the diplomatic engagements.