Ghana Minute.
Saturday, 2 May 2026
Ghana’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Saturday, 2 May 2026
Accra—:—London—:—New York—:—Beijing—:—
Archive Minute from Saturday, 2 May 2026
Politics

High Court strips EOCO lawyer from NAFCO case prosecution team

The News

A High Court judge removed EOCO lawyer Radiatu Abdulai from the prosecution team in the NAFCO/Buffer Stock case, ruling that no sufficient authorisation from the Attorney-General had been demonstrated for her to appear. The ruling follows an earlier High Court decision that stripped the Office of the Special Prosecutor of its prosecutorial powers, and reveals growing fragility in Ghana's anti-corruption institutions.

Why it matters

High Court's removal of EOCO lawyer from NAFCO prosecution reveals deepening fragility in Ghana's anti-corruption institutions at a critical moment.

2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Politics

  1. High Court strips EOCO lawyer from NAFCO case prosecution team

    A High Court judge removed EOCO lawyer Radiatu Abdulai from the prosecution team in the NAFCO/Buffer Stock case, ruling that no sufficient authorisation from the Attorney-General had been demonstrated for her to appear. The ruling follows an earlier High Court decision that stripped the Office of the Special Prosecutor of its prosecutorial powers, and reveals growing fragility in Ghana's anti-corruption institutions.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Prime Insight to examine Ghana's power crisis and BoG losses

    Prime Insight will air on Joy Prime Saturday, May 2, from 7:00–9:00 a.m. with a panel discussion on Ghana's persistent power outages despite Akosombo Dam stabilisation, and the Bank of Ghana's reported financial losses of GHS 15 billion in 2025. The programme will feature legal, political and economic perspectives from communicators and policy experts.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Ashanti minister's social media strategy offers lessons for 2026 politics

    An analysis of Dr Frank Amoakohene's youth-focused political communication strategy in the Ashanti Region—using TikTok, Facebook, and cultural events—as a model for how modern Ghanaian political parties can engage voters through preference over authority in the age of social media.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Yazori Chief threatens election boycott over lack of basic services

    The Chief of Yazori in North Gonja District, Savannah Region, has warned that his community may boycott future elections if the government does not address years of neglect affecting basic amenities including roads, electricity, healthcare, and telecommunications. The chief cited deaths caused by poor road access during medical emergencies as evidence of the community's suffering and called on government, the MP, and DCE to act.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Minority warns worsening hardship threatens worker morale

    The Minority caucus on Parliament's Employment, Labour Relations and Pensions Committee warned on International Workers' Day that worsening hardship is pushing workers to the brink and weakening morale across Ghana. The statement described workers as central to national development but said conditions facing them are becoming increasingly difficult under the Mahama administration.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  6. Akosombo repair alone won't solve Ghana's broader energy crisis

    Director of Communications for the Bawumia Campaign Dennis Miracles Aboagye has argued that fixing Akosombo hydro plant does not end Ghana's electricity challenges, contending that power outages existed before the recent disruption and citing ongoing outages in parts of the Ashanti Region despite official assurances.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  7. IMANI lawyer criticises insincere power outage communication

    Kofi Bentil, Senior Vice-President of IMANI Africa, has criticised authorities for insincere communication about Ghana's power outages, arguing that energy challenges stem not only from technical issues but also from poor public messaging and political interference in sector decision-making.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  8. Mahama grants amnesty to 300 police chief inspectors

    President Mahama on May 1, 2026, granted amnesty to 300 Chief Inspectors of Police who scored 50–52% on Police College entry exams, falling below the 53% cutoff mark set by the exam body. Of the 7,133 who sat the competitive examination, 700 scored 53% and above and were shortlisted for entry to the academy.

    2 May 2026 · The Chronicle

  9. Roads Minister: no projects cancelled under Mahama reset agenda

    Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza stated that no road project has been cancelled or suspended under President Mahama's administration, which has directed continuity across all ongoing projects and prioritises settling contractor payments to address longstanding delays.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  10. Mahama praises IGP Yohunu for intelligence-led policing shift

    President John Mahama commended Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohunu and the Police Management team for their performance and their shift towards intelligence-led policing at the commissioning of a Divisional Police Headquarters in Krobo-Odumase, Eastern Region. He stressed the need for continued investment in technology, data systems and capacity building for officers to address increasingly sophisticated crime.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  11. Mahama commissions Odumase Krobo police HQ, donates vehicles

    President John Mahama commissioned the Odumase Krobo Divisional Police Headquarters at Laasi in the Eastern Region and donated a pickup vehicle and two motorcycles to support patrol operations and improve policing capacity in the area.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  12. Roads Minister assures contractors of prioritised payments for work

    Minister for Roads and Highways Governs Kwame Agbodza has urged contractors to remain on government road projects, assuring them that outstanding payments will be prioritised. He disclosed that government inherited close to ₵40 billion in unpaid work and has so far paid over ₵12 billion to contractors, describing it as the largest single-period disbursement made by any administration to the road sector.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  13. NDC official credits Ameri plant with preventing Kumasi power outages

    An NDC Communications Team member argued that Kumasi would have experienced severe power outages in 2024 without the Ameri power plant and other infrastructure built under the previous NDC administration, saying the NPP has overstated its energy sector achievements while relying on investments made between 2014 and 2016.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  14. Tano North MP accuses officials of shielding illegal mining operators

    The Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr Gideon Boako, has expressed disappointment over escalating illegal mining and logging activities in his area, accusing government appointees of complicity and shielding perpetrators at the expense of the environment and public health. He noted that until 18 months ago the municipality was largely illegal mining-free, but has since seen a sudden influx of operations targeting forest reserves and the Tano River, a primary water source for thousands.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  15. Dr Boako questions Bank of Ghana's GH¢15.6bn loss

    Member of the Finance Committee of Parliament, Dr Gideon Boako, has questioned the scale of losses recorded by the Bank of Ghana, arguing that economic stability should not come at such a high financial cost. He cited 2017–2019 as a period when Ghana achieved growth, single-digit inflation, and fiscal improvement without significant central bank losses.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  16. Bank of Ghana losses not significant, says Gold Board CEO

    The CEO of the Ghana Gold Board downplayed concerns over the Bank of Ghana's 2025 losses of GH¢15.6 billion, saying they are not significant enough to warrant national alarm, while the opposition NPP described the losses as "a new low" and blamed policy missteps.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  17. Annoh-Dompreh elected PAP health committee chairman

    Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Minority Chief Whip and MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, has been elected Chairman of the Pan-African Parliament's Committee on Health, Social Work and Labour under the Western Caucus. He pledged to work with fellow parliamentarians to advance policies on healthcare, labour rights, and social protection across the continent.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Business

  1. Multimedia Group extends May Day Egg Market to Saturday

    The Multimedia Group's May Day Egg Market continues at the Joy FM Car Park on Saturday, May 2, with deeper discounts, giveaways, and increased supply following strong sales on opening day. The initiative aims to support local poultry farmers while easing household food costs and promoting eggs as a nutritious staple.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  2. President Mahama breaks ground for 24-hour market in Asesewa

    President John Dramani Mahama has officially broken ground for construction of a modern 24-hour market complex in Asesewa as part of a national plan to develop 261 ultramodern markets across the country. The facility will include lockable stores, open stalls, washrooms, a police post, fire station, daycare centre, pharmacy, clinic, Women's Bank, warehouses, cold stores, and a lorry terminal to support traders and create jobs.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Government considering Western Rail Line under Big Push programme

    President Mahama announced that the government is considering absorbing the comprehensive overhaul of the Western Rail Line into its 'Big Push' programme to revitalise trade in the Western Corridor and improve transfer of bauxite, manganese, and cocoa to ports.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Baker urges consumers not to store bread beyond four days

    Madam Florence Ofori-Agyeman, CEO of Baker's Relish, advises consumers to avoid keeping bread beyond four days, cautioning that extended shelf life may indicate excessive use of preservatives or unsafe baking practices. She notes that bread lasting more than a week or two should raise consumer concerns about preservative misuse in the industry.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Ghana-Korea bilateral trade reaches $380 million in 2025

    Trade between Ghana and South Korea reached $380 million in 2025, an increase over 2024, according to the Korean Ambassador. The rise reflects strengthening economic relations driven by growing business interest, expanding investment opportunities and deepening cooperation across key sectors including construction, electronics and manufacturing.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  6. Bank of Ghana neither profit nor loss-making body, Bentil says

    Lawyer Kofi Bentil argues that the Bank of Ghana should not be assessed as a profit or loss-making institution, but as a body mandated to stabilise the economy. His comments follow scrutiny of the Bank's projected GH¢15.7 billion loss for 2025, and he calls for clarity on its financial position while noting that any losses must produce tangible long-term benefits.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  7. Energy minister appeals for patience on transformer replacement

    The Minister for Energy and Green Transition says the government is replacing faulty and overloaded transformers to improve power stability, acknowledging that while overall stability has improved, some communities still experience intermittent outages due to localised technical faults within the distribution network rather than nationwide load-shedding.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  8. Ghana's power stability improves in 2025 versus 2024 – Minister

    Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor says Ghana's power supply has improved significantly since 2025 compared to 2024, with reduced outages and some months recording no load shedding in parts of the country, though he acknowledged challenges remain from ageing transformers and localised faults.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  9. Bank of Ghana reports GH¢15.3 billion loss in 2025

    The Bank of Ghana recorded a GH¢15.3 billion loss in 2025, up from GH¢9.4 billion the previous year, driven largely by open market operations costs of GH¢16.7 billion aimed at managing liquidity and controlling inflation. Despite the deepening losses and negative equity position, the central bank remains operationally stable, with losses attributed to policy interventions rather than inefficiency.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  10. Ghana cedi appreciated 40.7% against dollar in 2025

    The Bank of Ghana reports the cedi gained 40.7 per cent against the US dollar in 2025, causing accounting valuation losses of GH¢29.1 billion on its foreign-currency-denominated assets, though the central bank notes these are non-cash accounting entries that do not represent losses of underlying assets.

    2 May 2026 · The Chronicle

  11. MGL's May Day Egg Market attracts shoppers with affordable eggs

    Multimedia Group held a two-day May Day Egg Market at Joy FM Car Park in Accra (May 1–2), offering fresh eggs at prices of GH¢40–55 per crate to promote the local poultry industry. The event combined discounted eggs with nutritional education and direct support for local poultry farmers.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  12. Dr Boako questions BoG's GH¢15.6bn loss figure for 2025

    Bank of Ghana's 2025 Financial Statement revealed a loss of GH¢15.6 billion, the second-largest loss after 2022's GH¢60.9 billion. Dr Gideon Boako, MP for Tano North and Finance Committee member, has criticised the central bank's management, describing the loss as "a new low" due to "policy failure" and contending the actual loss exceeds the announced figure.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  13. Bank of Ghana's inflation fight since 2022 required economic costs

    Prof Ebo Turkson, External Member of the Monetary Policy Committee, says Ghana's central bank could not have succeeded in fighting inflation since 2022 without significant economic costs. He argues monetary policy should be assessed on whether it meets its inflation-control mandate rather than whether it avoids costs, noting inflation peaked at 54 per cent in December 2022.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Mining & Energy

  1. Government defended for leadership during Ghana power crisis

    Technical Advisor to the Ministry of Finance Dr Theo Acheampong defended the government's handling of recent power supply challenges, saying clear leadership was demonstrated through timely communication and coordinated interventions following an incident at Akosombo hydro facility. However, Kofi Bentil of IMANI Africa criticized authorities for what he describes as "insincere" communication regarding persistent power outages.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Weak accountability in energy sector causes infrastructure failures, says ACEP director

    The Executive Director of the African Centre for Energy Policy has argued that defective accountability in Ghana's power sector has led to repeated infrastructure failures and system vulnerabilities, citing a recent Ghana Grid Company Limited substation fire near Akosombo and recurring power challenges in Kumasi as examples of issues that could have been prevented with proper planning and modern safety systems.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Prof. Bokpin: power sector inefficiencies cost ordinary Ghanaians

    Finance professor Godfred Bokpin criticises ongoing inefficiencies in Ghana's power sector as a result of poor leadership and weak long-term planning, trapping consumers in reactive policymaking and rising costs. He calls for clarity and accountability from political leadership on when Ghana can expect lasting solutions and suggests the energy minister should resign if sustained improvements are not delivered.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Ghana's power system lacks robustness, outages will continue

    Ben Boakye, Executive Director of the African Centre for Energy Policy, warns that Ghana will continue to experience intermittent power outages because the electricity system is not robust enough to guarantee stable supply and reflects deep structural weaknesses in generation and distribution.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Chamber of Mines seeks full breakdown of mining export forex inflows

    The Ghana Chamber of Mines has called on the Bank of Ghana to publish a comprehensive account of foreign exchange inflows from the mining sector, arguing that current incomplete public data risks distorting the sector's contribution to the economy. The Chamber notes that large-scale mining companies repatriate proceeds through both direct sales to the Bank of Ghana and through commercial banks, and that a 20 per cent figure reflecting only central bank transactions presents an incomplete picture.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  6. Akosombo substation fire was preventable incident, says ACEP chief

    Ben Boakye, Executive Director of the African Centre for Energy Policy, has described the April 23 fire at Ghana Grid Company Limited's Akosombo substation as a preventable incident caused by long-standing negligence and weak accountability in Ghana's power sector. He blamed inadequate maintenance and safety upgrades to transmission infrastructure dating back to the 1960s, noting that generation assets received upgrades while critical switchyard systems did not.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  7. Domestic Gold Purchase Programme strengthens Ghana's foreign reserves

    The Bank of Ghana says its Domestic Gold Purchase Programme has strengthened foreign exchange reserves and stabilised the foreign exchange market by enabling domestic gold acquisition without recourse to the domestic foreign exchange market, easing pressure on the cedi and advancing reserve diversification.

    2 May 2026 · The Chronicle

  8. Energy expert urges private sector role in Ghana power distribution

    Energy expert Lom Nuku Ahlijah has called for increased private-sector participation in Ghana's power distribution system to address persistent electricity challenges (dumsor). He cited the failed Power Distribution Services (PDS) arrangement as an example of a model that could work, arguing private involvement is worth revisiting given the Electricity Company of Ghana's performance record over the past decade.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  9. Energy Minister assures Ghanaians supply is stable

    Energy Minister John Jinapor has assured Ghanaians that the country's energy supply is currently stable despite recent concerns, praising VRA and GRIDCo staff efforts. He noted government is installing over 2,500 new transformers nationwide to strengthen the power distribution network.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  10. Mahama announces 1,200MW gas power plant for electricity expansion

    President Mahama announced plans for a new 1,200-megawatt gas-fired power plant to expand Ghana's electricity generation capacity in response to rising demand, which has increased from 3,500 megawatts to about 4,300 megawatts. The government plans to cut sod for the project this year, with the additional capacity also intended to enable electricity exports to neighbouring countries.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  11. Energy Minister to publish list of transformer replacement areas

    Energy Minister John Jinapor announced that the government will this week release a comprehensive list of areas scheduled for transformer replacements to improve electricity distribution and enhance transparency. The minister said 140 new transformers have already been installed, with an additional 300 set to be deployed in the coming weeks.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Agriculture & Land

  1. J.A. Kufuor to address Africa Cocoa Vision 2050 forum

    Former President John Agyekum Kufuor will deliver a special address at the inaugural Africa Cocoa Finance & Investment Forum (ACFIF 2026) at the London Stock Exchange on May 6, 2026, discussing "Africa Cocoa Vision 2050 – Historical Reflections and Future Pathways" with global investors and policymakers.

    2 May 2026 · Business & Financial Times

  2. TCDA CEO urges investments in cashew apple value addition

    Ghana's Tree Crops Development Authority CEO called for urgent investment and partnerships to expand cashew apple processing, noting that an estimated 2 million metric tonnes of cashew apples are produced annually but mostly go to waste, despite potential for transformation into juices, wines, jams, ethanol, and other products.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Ghana Tuna Association reaffirms sustainability commitment

    The Ghana Tuna Association marked World Tuna Day by reaffirming its commitment to sustainable management of tuna resources, highlighting the sector's importance to employment, exports, and food security. The association noted Ghana's achievement of Marine Stewardship Council certification for Atlantic Ocean skipjack and yellowfin tuna fisheries and called for strengthened collaboration to maintain international environmental standards.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Society

  1. Twins born minutes apart discovered to have different fathers

    Michelle and Lavinia Osbourne, 49-year-old twins born within minutes of each other to the same mother, discovered via DNA test in 2022 that they have different fathers—a result of heteropaternal superfecundation, an incredibly rare biological process of which only around 20 cases have been identified worldwide and the only documented case in the UK.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Education minister pledges to increase teacher recruitment slots

    Ghana's Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has committed to reviewing the 7,000 teacher recruitment slots for the 2026 academic year, signalling a potential increase after unions criticized the allocation as insufficient given a backlog of over 10,000 trained graduates. The minister noted the figure is disproportionately low compared to 15,000 health sector slots and argued that more schools than hospitals necessitate larger education workforce numbers.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. First batch of 2026 Ghanaian pilgrims departs for Mecca

    The first batch of 430 Ghanaian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj departed from Tamale Airport on Friday for Saudi Arabia. In total, 6,000 pilgrims are expected to depart from Ghana in 18 flights between May 1 and 18, 2026.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Police dismantle robbery gang in Upper East region

    Ghana Police dismantled a robbery gang responsible for violent attacks in the Upper East region following an intelligence operation on 29 April 2026, arresting four suspects and resulting in two deaths during the operation. A G3 rifle, ammunition, and seven stolen motorbikes were recovered at the gang's hideout in Zuarungu, with the arrested suspects admitting involvement in attacks including a February assault on a bus driver and a March robbery at a mining site.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Ghanaian workers demand action beyond symbolic May Day recognition

    Workers marking International Workers' Day on May 1 say daily life remains a struggle for survival, with calls for tangible reforms over symbolic celebrations. Food vendors, petty traders, and informal-sector operators cite rising costs, inconsistent income, and lack of job security and social protection as ongoing challenges.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  6. M-CARE project launches steering committee for health integration in Ghana

    M-CARE, a five-year EU-funded initiative, held its inaugural Steering Committee meeting in Ghana to advance integrated care for people with multiple chronic conditions and mental health challenges across Sub-Saharan Africa, adapting WHO guidelines for delivery at the primary health level.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  7. NAIMOS arrests 49 suspected illegal miners after armed ambush

    A NAIMOS taskforce was ambushed by illegal miners at a GREL rubber plantation in Ahanta West on April 28, 2026, with gunfire directed at their vehicle; no casualties were reported. A subsequent dawn raid on Thursday arrested 49 suspected illegal miners, recovered one pump-action firearm, and seized more than GH₵226,000 in suspected proceeds from illegal mining.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  8. 49 illegal miners arrested after armed attack on NAIMOS team

    A NAIMOS taskforce team came under gunfire from suspected illegal miners operating in a rubber plantation in the Western Region's Nzema East on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Following an intelligence-led operation, 49 suspected illegal miners were arrested on Thursday in Adiewoso and surrounding communities, and operatives recovered a pump-action firearm and more than GH¢226,000 in cash believed to be proceeds from illegal mining.

    2 May 2026 · The Chronicle

  9. Accra-Kumasi highway congestion forces drivers to seek costly detours

    A columnist describes how severe congestion on the Nkawkaw–Jejeti stretch of the Accra-Kumasi highway is forcing commuters to use longer alternative routes via Kade and Anyanso, adding hours to journeys and highlighting the inadequacy of Ghana's main transport artery.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  10. NACOC disrupts drug network in Winneba before festival

    The Narcotics Control Commission conducted an intelligence-led anti-drug operation in Winneba on May 1, 2026, targeting hotspots linked to illicit drug activities ahead of the Aboakyiri Festival. The operation resulted in seizures of suspected narcotics and several arrests, with investigations ongoing to identify key figures in the alleged trafficking network.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  11. AMA reintroduces town councils to enforce sanitation rules

    The Accra Metropolitan Assembly will reintroduce town councils and strictly enforce sanitation by-laws, with fines for non-compliance beginning Monday. The mayor said while some shop owners have participated in clean-up efforts, sustained commitment from residents and business owners is needed.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  12. Museums board debunks Virgin Mary living in Volta Region claim

    The Ghana Museums and Monuments Board has officially refuted claims that the Virgin Mary lived in the Volta Region for 40 years after Jesus's resurrection, and apologized to Prof. Wazi Apoh for wrongly attributing the false statement to him. The claim originated from a tour guide at the Ho Regional Museum in a viral video.

    2 May 2026 · The Chronicle

  13. Kwamuhene warns joblessness threatens peace, urges action

    The Kwamuhene has appealed to the government to urgently address youth unemployment, arguing that educated young people lack opportunity rather than character, and cautioning that a nation unable to employ its youth cannot sustain peace.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  14. NADMO distributes relief to tidal wave victims in Anlo

    The National Disaster Management Organisation provided relief support to victims of tidal waves in Anlo District, where seawater intrusion into the River Volta has disrupted irrigation and reduced fish populations. NADMO distributed rice, maize, peas, cooking oil, soap and mosquito nets to affected households.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Culture

  1. Mensa Otabil launches book on church governance and leadership transition

    Pastor Mensa Otabil has launched his book 'Leading the Church', which provides a framework for pastors and church leaders to build governance systems and ensure leadership continuity. The book argues that "new and emerging churches" are defined by their lack of leadership transition beyond a dominant founder, and emphasizes the importance of structured succession planning for institutional stability.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Ghana Jazz Orchestra makes debut at International Jazz Day

    The Ghana Jazz Orchestra, made up of trumpets, trombones, saxophones and a rhythm section conducted by pianist Victor Dey Jr., performed a five-song set at +233 Jazz Bar & Grill in Accra on April 30, 2026, marking its first public appearance at the International Jazz Day concert. Coordinator Bernard Ayisa said the orchestra will be formally launched at a date to be announced soon, with plans to become a 30-member ensemble.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Tera Carissa Hodges to speak on cultural sovereignty at AfroCannes 2026

    Clinical hypnotherapist and media professional Tera Carissa Hodges will moderate discussions on "Narrative and Cultural Sovereignty" at AfroCannes 2026, a diversity and inclusion platform held alongside the Cannes Film Festival. She will co-moderate a masterclass on authenticity in cross-cultural collaborations, focusing on how Black creatives can produce globally resonant content while preserving cultural identity.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Effutu chiefs hold colourful durbar for Aboakyer Festival

    The Effutu traditional area held a durbar on Saturday, May 2, to climax the 2026 Aboakyer Festival, with Paramount Chief Neenyi Ghartey VII receiving homage and the Tuafo No.1 Company presenting a live bushbuck. The festival, held annually to commemorate Penkyi Otu for leading ancestors from the Western Sudan Empire to their present settlement, was attended by Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and other state officials.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Vice President celebrates Aboakyer festival, highlights economic potential

    Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang joined Effutu people at the Aboakyer 2026 festival, describing it as an important platform for preserving culture and promoting tourism and local economic development. She outlined government investments in infrastructure and initiatives including a Women's Development Bank and 24-hour economy policy.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Sport

  1. Prince Amoako Jnr scores as Nordsjaelland draws with Brøndby

    The 18-year-old Ghanaian winger Prince Amoako Jnr scored in FC Nordsjaelland's draw against Brøndby on Friday, bringing his tally to eight goals and five assists in all competitions this season.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Ghanaian winger Boakye-Yiadom draws interest from top European clubs

    Kingsford Boakye-Yiadom, a 21-year-old Ghanaian winger, has left Everton's academy and is being monitored by Manchester United, Brighton, Atlético Madrid, RB Leipzig, AS Monaco, Feyenoord and Genoa. The prospect, known for his pace and close control, made 16 appearances for Everton's youth side last season, scoring twice and providing one assist.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Black Princesses coach confident ahead Uganda World Cup qualifier

    Ghana's Black Princesses coach Charles Sampson expressed optimism that his team will beat Uganda and qualify for the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in a match to be hosted at the Accra Sports Stadium. Sampson said the team has prepared well since the end of March and brought in new players who have increased competition and quality within the squad.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Swedru All Blacks beat Vision FC 2-1 in dramatic Premier League contest

    Swedru All Blacks defeated Vision FC 2-1 with a late penalty from Zayat Bubakari in the 89th minute, with both teams now tied on 38 points in the relegation battle as the season nears its end.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Joseph Opoku scores late winner for Zulte Waregem

    Ghanaian forward Joseph Opoku, 20, has been directly involved in goals in each of his last five matches for Zulte Waregem, including a late 88th-minute winner against Cercle Brugge. Across all competitions this season, Opoku has recorded 10 goals and six assists.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  6. Kofi-Kyereh ranks Andre Ayew above Essien, Appiah in blind game

    Ghana midfielder Daniel Kofi-Kyereh ranked Andre Ayew ahead of Michael Essien and Stephen Appiah in a blind-ranking game of Black Stars midfielders, in an exclusive interview with Joy Sports that aired in May 2026. The ranking included ten former and current national team midfielders.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  7. Ghana's 4x100m relay team misses automatic World Championships qualification

    Ghana's men's 4x100m team finished fourth in Heat 3 of the World Relays in Botswana with a time of 38.18 seconds, narrowly missing automatic qualification for next year's World Athletics Championships in Beijing. The team will have another opportunity on Sunday to secure a fourth consecutive World Championships appearance.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  8. AFCON 2027 to begin June 19, final July 17

    CAF announced that the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, will start on Saturday, 19 June 2027 and conclude with the Final on Saturday, 17 July 2027. A total of 48 teams will participate in qualifiers, with the draw scheduled for 19 May 2026.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  9. Ghana faces Brazil, Spain in World Relays repechage race

    Ghana's relay quartet, which finished fourth in their heat on Saturday, will compete in Sunday's repechage race against Spain, Brazil, Colombia, Kenya, Italy and China, with a top-two finish needed to qualify for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  10. Ghana's key players dealing with injuries ahead of 2026 World Cup

    Ghana Football Association President Kurt Okraku has expressed concern about a growing list of injuries to key Black Stars players, including Mohammed Kudus, Mohammed Salisu, Francis Abu, and Inaki Williams, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite acknowledging the challenge, Okraku expressed confidence in the team's resilience and unity under coach Carlos Queiroz, who will assess the squad through two friendly matches before finalising his selection.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  11. Amusan, Samukonga confirmed for Accra 2026 Athletics Championship

    Nigerian 100m hurdles world record holder Tobi Amusan and Zambian 400m sprinter Muzala Samukonga have confirmed participation in the African Senior Athletics Championship opening in Accra on May 12, 2026, with the event spanning May 12-17 at Legon Sports Stadium.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Tourism & Environment

  1. Air Sports Federation, Heritage Africa launch scenic Accra flights

    The Ghana Air Sports Federation and Heritage Africa Foundation have launched scenic air tours over Accra using Cessna 172 Skyhawk aircraft, offering two packages: one combining flights with historical tours of key landmarks, and another targeting aviation enthusiasts with hands-on learning. The partnership aims to promote the city's history, culture, and tourism potential while deepening public interest in Ghana's cultural heritage and aviation.

    2 May 2026 · Daily Guide

World & Region

  1. Germany says US troop withdrawal decision was foreseeable

    Germany's defence minister Boris Pistorius said the US decision to withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany was "foreseeable," while Nato seeks clarification from Washington. President Trump indicated further cuts may follow, citing concerns about German criticism of US negotiations with Iran.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Somali pirates hijack oil tanker MT Eureka off Yemen coast

    Somali pirates have hijacked the oil tanker MT Eureka off the coast of Yemen in the Gulf of Aden and are taking it towards Somalia, marking the second hijacking of an oil tanker in the area in 10 days.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Germany backs Morocco's autonomy plan for Sahara dispute

    Germany has reaffirmed its support for autonomy under Morocco's sovereignty as the basis for resolving the Sahara dispute and pledged to reflect that position in its diplomatic and economic actions, according to a joint declaration from the Morocco-Germany Multidimensional Strategic Dialogue.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Accra hosts World Bank regional health strategy launch May 4

    The World Bank Group will launch its new regional health strategy "Fit to Prosper" in Accra on May 4, 2026, aimed at helping Western and Central African countries make strategic health investments despite constrained finances while addressing mounting pressure on health systems from population growth, disease outbreaks, and climate shocks.

    2 May 2026 · The Chronicle

  5. Thirteen killed in Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon

    The Lebanese health ministry said at least 13 people, including four women and a child, were killed in Israeli air strikes on southern Lebanon on Friday, with 32 people injured. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has continued despite an ongoing three-week ceasefire extension.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  6. Ghana's Foreign Affairs Ministry alerts travelers to Togo traffic penalties

    Togo has introduced fixed penalties for traffic offences ranging from 6,000 to 25,000 CFA francs, with violations including driving under the influence, improper parking, and missing documentation. Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has cautioned Ghanaian travellers to comply with Togo's traffic regulations to avoid fines.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Opinion

  1. Article challenges narrative of cognitive decline in youth

    Rather than intellectual weakness, young people are undergoing a transformation in how intelligence is expressed and developed in a technological environment, and current educational frameworks have not adapted to 21st-century cognitive demands.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Education must move beyond AI plagiarism detection focus

    An opinion piece argues that institutional obsession with AI plagiarism detection distracts from deeper issues: the collapse of traditional frameworks for defining intelligence and academic value. Rather than focusing on detection and control, education systems should shift toward a model of creation and productivity.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Professional access depends on capacity, not just competence

    A professional argues that gaining influence and access to high-stakes environments requires more than technical expertise—it demands developed skills in communication, presence, and reading context. Many professionals have strong substance but struggle to translate it effectively in influential spaces.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Political interference, not weak leadership, caused energy woes—Kofi Bentil

    Lawyer Kofi Bentil attributed Ghana's recurring energy challenges to political interference rather than technical leadership failure, arguing the sector would function effectively if insulated from politics and professionals allowed to operate without undue interference.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Technology's promises failing to close wealth and poverty gaps

    Despite widespread digital access in Africa, technology has not become the great equalizer it promises; the gap between digital wealth and persistent analog poverty remains unresolved because access to devices and internet alone does not translate into meaningful economic participation or creation.

    2 May 2026 · Joy Online

Ghana Minute