Ghana Minute.
Saturday, 16 May 2026
Ghana’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Saturday, 16 May 2026
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Archive Minute from Saturday, 16 May 2026
Politics

Wontumi campaign rejects presidential staffer's criticism of court cases

The News

The Communication Directorate of the Wontumi Campaign has criticised remarks allegedly made by presidential staffer Rosemond Obeng suggesting that no serious political party would allow someone with active court cases to contest for chairmanship. The campaign's response cited historical examples including Kwame Nkrumah and Jerry John Rawlings to argue that legal challenges do not disqualify leaders from public office.

16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

Politics

  1. Wontumi campaign rejects presidential staffer's criticism of court cases

    The Communication Directorate of the Wontumi Campaign has criticised remarks allegedly made by presidential staffer Rosemond Obeng suggesting that no serious political party would allow someone with active court cases to contest for chairmanship. The campaign's response cited historical examples including Kwame Nkrumah and Jerry John Rawlings to argue that legal challenges do not disqualify leaders from public office.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. DWM marks 44 years, calls for Affirmative Action acceleration

    The Developing Women for Mobilisation organisation observed its 44th anniversary on May 13, the first major milestone since the death of its founder and former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to women's advancement and demanded government acceleration of Affirmative Action Education and its implementation across communities.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Ghana must use fiscal gains to drive growth and jobs—IMF

    The IMF urged Ghana to leverage the significant fiscal space created by its economic stabilisation programme and policy reforms to drive strategic investments and create jobs. The briefing marked the end of Ghana's three-year US$3 billion IMF loan programme and the country's transition to a new 36-month Policy Coordination Instrument.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Former MP warns appointees against arrogance, wickedness in office

    Kojo Adu Asare, a former NDC Member of Parliament, has cautioned government appointees and chief executives against arrogance and disrespect to party seniors, warning that some younger officials who have risen to prominence have become inaccessible and forgotten their roots. He expressed concern that internal friction is brewing within the party due to the conduct of some officials he describes as "wicked" and untouchable.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. ECOWAS Court adjourns ruling on Torkornoo removal bid

    The ECOWAS Court of Justice has adjourned its ruling on former Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo's application for provisional measures to suspend domestic removal proceedings against her, while Ghana argued the court lacks jurisdiction over a constitutional matter being handled by domestic courts.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. TUC vows to resist ECG privatisation, opposes IMF pressure

    The Trades Union Congress (Ghana) has stated it will use every legitimate means to stop privatisation of the Electricity Company of Ghana, following IMF pressure on Ghana to fast-track private sector participation in ECG's operations during the sixth and final review of Ghana's Extended Credit Facility programme.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. Kofi Bentil calls for political tolerance to protect businesses

    IMANI Africa's Kofi Bentil has urged Ghana to move beyond partisan politics and protect businesses from being targeted based on perceived political affiliations, warning that national investments risk underperformance when viewed through political lenses rather than in the national interest.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. Ghana achieved IMF stability, but structural reform remains unfinished

    Kofi Bentil of IMANI Africa says Ghana should not celebrate the end of its three-year US$3 billion IMF programme, noting that while macroeconomic indicators such as international reserves, import cover, and the cedi's strength have improved since 2023, the country has stabilised rather than restructured its economy and underlying weaknesses persist.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Ghana remains dependent on IMF programmes that fail to support production

    Dr Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, Deputy Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress Ghana, has criticised Ghana's continued reliance on IMF programmes, arguing that the country operates an import-driven economy that leaves young people unemployed despite macroeconomic stability. He warned that government plans for private sector participation in the Electricity Company of Ghana reflect a policy direction that fails to address structural economic challenges.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Ghana completes IMF bailout programme ahead of schedule

    Ghana has officially completed its Extended Credit Facility programme with the International Monetary Fund, marking the end of its financial bailout relationship with the global lender. The government says the completion represents restoration of macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability achieved ahead of schedule.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Ghana's delayed IMF programme approach became nation's most costly

    Professor Godfred Bokpin argued that Ghana's previous government delayed seeking IMF support until economic conditions had severely deteriorated, resulting in one of the most expensive IMF programmes in the country's history. He said earlier intervention could have avoided domestic debt restructuring and other severe measures, noting Kenya took similar action sooner under comparable circumstances.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  12. Mahama pledges partnership with chiefs on governance and development

    President John Mahama reaffirmed his government's commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional authorities, saying chiefs should play a more active role in governance, project monitoring, and local development. As part of the government's Reset Agenda, he announced plans to formalise cooperation between traditional rulers and local assemblies through regular coordination meetings and joint monitoring of infrastructure projects.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  13. SIF CEO rebuts opposition claims about press freedom under Mahama

    The CEO of the Social Investment Fund dismissed assertions by former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia that free speech and democratic rights are under threat in Ghana, stating there is no evidence that freedom of expression is being criminalised and that opposition claims are not supported by international assessments on media freedom.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  14. NPP analyst says 2023 IMF programme performed better than 2015

    According to an analysis by the NPP Policy Committee spokesperson on Finance and Economy, IMF data show the 2015 Extended Credit Facility programme experienced more severe performance breakdown than the current 2023 programme, despite both programmes facing election-cycle spending pressures.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  15. NPP chairman hopeful urges competence-based leadership selection

    Paul Afoko, a National Chairman hopeful of the New Patriotic Party, has urged the party to elect its next national leaders based on competence rather than ethnic considerations, during consultative meetings in Ashanti Region. Afoko stressed the need for party unity and rebuilding following the NPP's 2024 electoral defeat.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  16. Civil Service Council visits Interior Ministry, praises punctuality

    The Chairman of the Civil Service Council praised the Ministry of Interior for its punctuality and commitment to work during a familiarisation visit. The Head of the Civil Service emphasised the Ministry's role in safeguarding public safety and encouraged maintenance of peace and security.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  17. Wontumi campaign rejects staffer's criticism of chairman's court cases

    The Wontumi Campaign has condemned remarks by presidential staffer Rosemond Obeng suggesting that no serious party would allow someone with active court cases to contest for chairmanship. The campaign argues that legal challenges do not disqualify leaders from public office, citing historical examples including Ghana's first President Kwame Nkrumah and Jerry John Rawlings.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  18. Ghana officially exits IMF bailout programme

    Ghana has officially exited the IMF bailout programme. The article reflects on the previous administration's public confidence that Ghana would not seek IMF support, contrasting their earlier assurances with the subsequent economic difficulties that led to the bailout.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  19. Africa must build systems, lead own transformation – VP

    Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang told the Oxford Africa Conference that Africa has the talent and resources to shape its future, calling for leadership focused on credible implementation, institutional resilience, and practical governance that improves citizens' lives. She cited Ghana's economic reforms, cocoa processing expansion, 24-Hour Economy policy, and Women's Development Bank as examples of efforts to reduce dependence on raw material exports and broaden economic participation.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  20. Vice President attends Oxford Africa Conference 2026

    Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang arrived at the University of Oxford to participate in the 16th Oxford Africa Conference 2026, where she will deliver the keynote address at an event themed "Anchoring Africa: Grounded Leadership in the Age of Disruption." The annual conference brings together African leaders, policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, and students to discuss governance, innovation, economic transformation, and sustainable development.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

Business

  1. Ecobank Ghana responds to court ruling on claims

    Ecobank Ghana PLC says it respects the judicial process following a recent court ruling on claims against the bank, and reassures customers that the bank's financial position remains strong and services continue without disruption.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Apostle Nyamekye urges Zoomlion Kenya staff to prioritise competence, integrity

    The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost addressed workers at Zoomlion Kenya's Nairobi facility, urging staff and management to prioritise competence, integrity, and faithfulness as the company deepens operations in East Africa, noting that sustainable development depends on sound governance, disciplined work ethics, and quality human capital.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. CPC staff deny GH¢4.3m shortfall; demand reinstatement

    Seven employees interdicted over a GH¢4,373,355.04 financial discrepancy flagged by the Ghana Audit Service deny responsibility and claim they were not given fair hearing before interdiction. The workers allege the audit team failed to consult them and that management misinterpreted figures without reconciling them with internal ledgers.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. ECG's forex volatility undermines planning, former MD says

    Former Electricity Company of Ghana Managing Director Samuel Dubik Mahama says the utility's biggest operational challenge is foreign exchange volatility, as it purchases power in foreign currency while earning revenues in local currency. He notes that recent improvements in exchange rate stability are helping the power sector's financial planning and long-term sustainability.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. Government commits to recapitalize Bank of Ghana by 2032

    The Government has affirmed its commitment to fully recapitalize the Bank of Ghana by 2032 following Parliament's passage of amended central bank legislation. Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson announced this while disclosing the end of Ghana's three-year US$3 billion IMF-supported programme, noting the recapitalization would be gradual and address the central bank's negative equity position, which worsened to GH₵96.28 billion by end of 2025.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. ECG schedules maintenance in Tema Region on May 17

    The Electricity Company of Ghana has scheduled planned maintenance in the Tema Region for Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, affecting communities including Teye Kwame, Asutsuare Junction and Township, Suncity, Manyajokpanya, and surrounding areas. The maintenance comes as engineers work to repair an underground cable fault in the Western Region that caused outages on Saturday.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. Ecobank Ghana reassures customers after court ruling on claims

    Ecobank Ghana PLC acknowledged a recent court ruling regarding claims against the bank and stated that it respects the judicial process and will uphold the rule of law. The bank said its financial position remains strong and resilient, and services continue without disruption.

    16 May 2026 · Business & Financial Times →

Mining & Energy

  1. 10 miners rescued alive from Konongo pit collapse

    Ten miners were rescued alive from a collapsed underground pit at a Northern Ashanti Mines Limited site in Konongo, Asante Akyem Central Municipality, following hours of rescue efforts by emergency responders. One victim is in critical condition at a local hospital; the cause of the collapse is under investigation.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. IMANI chief calls for comprehensive review of Ghana mining contracts

    Kofi Bentil, Senior Vice President of IMANI Africa, is calling for a comprehensive review and renegotiation of all mining contracts in Ghana, arguing that the country is now in a stronger negotiating position than when the original agreements were signed. He also cautioned against reliance on wishful thinking in resolving gold refining challenges, emphasizing the need for practical collaboration across the value chain.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Former ECG chief defends reforms as IMF urges private participation

    Former ECG Managing Director Samuel Dubik Mahama defended reforms he implemented during his tenure, citing progress in revenue generation, digitalisation and metering. The IMF has renewed pressure for Ghana to accelerate private sector participation in ECG operations to address persistent financial and operational challenges in the energy sector.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Ghana should expand local mining control cautiously

    Kenneth Ashigbey, Chief Executive of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, supports greater Ghanaian participation in mining but warns against abrupt policy shifts that could damage investor confidence and legal stability. He argues policy changes must be guided by data, history, and legal predictability rather than ideological calls, and notes Ghanaian involvement in the sector has already increased significantly.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. Prof Bokpin urges critical review of IEA mining nationalization proposal

    Professor Godfred Alufar Bokpin has urged policymakers not to dismiss proposals by the Institute of Economic Affairs calling for greater state control over mining assets, arguing that Ghana has not fully benefited from its natural resources and should reassess its fiscal regime and mining agreements as leases near expiration.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

Agriculture & Land

  1. Advocates urge Ghana to enforce laws against illegal donkey hide trade

    Animal welfare advocates and agricultural researchers are calling for stronger government intervention to stop the illegal donkey hide trade in Ghana, warning the country's donkey population could disappear. Roger Kanton of the Fight Against Donkey Extinction project says donkeys are critical to rural communities in northern Ghana for farming, transportation, and manure production, and urges the government to implement sustainable livestock protection policies and enforce existing regional laws passed by ECOWAS and the AU.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

Society

  1. Nadowli-Kaleo Assembly commissions school and health facilities

    The Nadowli-Kaleo District Assembly has commissioned a furnished kindergarten block, a modern CHPS compound, and a three-unit classroom block in Nadowli and Chaang in the Upper West Region. The District Chief Executive announced that more than 80 per cent of required funding has been released to District Assemblies for infrastructure projects, with additional CHPS compounds planned for other communities.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Former Adentan MP discloses six-year kidney failure battle

    Former MP for Adentan Kojo Adu Asare revealed his six-year struggle with end-stage renal disease and dialysis, disclosing that a single session costs GH₵650 and he requires three sessions weekly, totalling approximately GH₵1,950 per week, alongside expensive medications and medical tests.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. NSA disburses March 2026 allowances to national service personnel

    The National Service Authority has confirmed that March 2026 allowances were paid to eligible service personnel on Friday, May 15, 2026, covering General Enrolment, Nurses, and Trained Teachers. The NSA urged beneficiaries to verify receipt and announced that April 2026 allowances are expected to be released shortly.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Three men convicted in Akyem Oda cutlass fight case

    The Swedru Circuit Court sentenced three men—George Okyere, 43, Evans Adayele, 20, and Joseph Nyabaah, 26—for a cutlass fight at Akyem Oda's New Station Area. Adayele and Nyabaah received 12 months' imprisonment with hard labour, while Okyere was fined 500 penalty units (GH₵6,000) and ordered to sign a three-year bond of good behaviour.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. Ghana law school entrance exams decentralized under Legal Education Act

    Ghana's Legal Education Act 2026 established the Council for Legal Education and Training to regulate legal training standards, decoupling some functions from the General Legal Council. Under Section 45 of the Act, individual law institutions now set their own minimum admission standards through entrance examinations or other assessments, subject to council oversight.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. Disability advocate Anthony Osei honoured at JoyNews Impact Makers Awards

    Disability and social inclusion advocate Anthony Osei has expressed gratitude after being honoured at the 2026 JoyNews Impact Makers Awards, describing the recognition as life-changing. Osei, known for supporting persons living with disabilities through prosthetic assistance, praised fellow awardees and the overall Impact Maker of the Year, Valeria.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. JoyNews Impact Maker Award winner thanks organisers for recognition

    The winner of the ultimate Impact Maker Award at the JoyNews Impact Makers Awards expressed gratitude to organisers, saying the honour reflected the resilience and courage of amputees whose stories inspire Smiles of Hope. The recipient thanked JoyNews for creating a platform that recognises changemakers and pledged to continue advocating for inclusion and support for amputees and vulnerable groups.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. Government's Blue Water Guards combat illegal mining, 452 graduate

    The government's Blue Water Guards initiative is producing positive results in fighting illegal mining along Ghana's rivers and streams, with the Lands and Natural Resources Minister stating that almost every district where guards have been deployed has witnessed improvement in water systems. A total of 452 newly trained guards graduated at the Naval Base at Ezinlibo in the Western Region.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Gender Minister visits Makola Market traders protesting eviction plans

    The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection visited traders at 31st December Makola Market following their protest against forceful eviction from parts of the market for redevelopment. The traders, some of whom have operated there for 30 to 40 years, are demanding government reconsideration of demolition plans and express concerns about inadequate communication and uncertainty regarding relocation arrangements.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Four remanded over GH¢200K robbery in Wenchi district

    Four suspects have been remanded into police custody by Wenchi District Court following a robbery attack on a businessman near Nsawkaw in the Bono Region on May 7, 2026, in which GH¢200,000 in cash was stolen. The men, aged 25 to 36, were arrested after an intelligence-led operation by the Nsawkaw District Police Command; the first suspect allegedly confessed and named his accomplices.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Former MP thanks officials for support during kidney transplant journey

    Kojo Adu-Asare, former Adentan MP, has publicly thanked Kwadwo Twum Boafo (CEO of the Financial Intelligence Centre), Julius Debrah (Chief of Staff), Ato Forson and Mohammed Amin Adam (current and former Finance Ministers), and others for their support during his six-year battle with kidney failure and transplant.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  12. South Tongu MP funds school classroom rehabilitation with GH¢16,200

    Maxwell Kwame Lukutor, Member of Parliament for South Tongu, provided GH¢16,200 to repair a six-unit classroom block at Dorkploame D.A. Basic School that sustained roof damage during a 2023 windstorm. The re-roofing project began in May 2026 and is nearing completion.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  13. JoyNews celebrates twelve impact makers transforming Ghanaian communities

    The 2026 JoyNews Impact Makers Awards at Labadi Beach Hotel honoured 12 individuals and organisations driving change across Ghana in health, education, disability inclusion, women and girl child empowerment, water and sanitation, youth development, and community transformation. The ceremony brought together policymakers, corporate leaders, and development partners to celebrate ordinary Ghanaians making extraordinary impacts in underserved communities.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  14. Nine injured in head-on collision at Awaso

    Nine people sustained injuries when a Toyota Sienta attempting to overtake collided head-on with a Tata Xenon pickup near Appetite at Awaso in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality, Western North Region. All occupants were treated at Green Shield Hospital and the vehicles were impounded for investigation.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  15. FDA Director shares parenting values and survival story

    Maria Lovelace Johnson, Director of Regional Operations at the Food and Drugs Authority, says teaching children to prioritize truth over comfort and maintaining discipline are key to responsible parenting. She also recounted a near-death experience after the birth of her second child and encourages women not to let gender stereotypes limit their professional and personal ambitions.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  16. Ayoub Group donates five motorbikes to Nima Police Station

    The Ayoub Group of Companies has donated five motorbikes and assorted sanitary supplies to the Nima Police Station to improve security operations, mobility, and emergency response in the area. The donation is also intended to promote discipline and peaceful coexistence among youth in Zongo communities across Accra.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  17. 90 Upper West police officers complete community policing training

    Ninety police officers from across the Upper West Region have completed a three-week training programme on community policing, conflict prevention, and intelligence gathering organised by the Centre for Security Sector Management in partnership with the International Organization for Migration. The training aimed to equip officers with practical skills to strengthen trust between security agencies and the public and enhance community engagement and proactive crime prevention.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  18. Nadowli-Kaleo District commissions school and health facilities

    The Nadowli-Kaleo District Assembly has commissioned a model Kindergarten block, a Community-based Health Planning and Services compound, and a three-unit classroom block in Nadowli and Chaang, Upper West Region. The District Chief Executive said the government has released more than 80 per cent of required funding to District Assemblies for infrastructure projects, with more facilities planned for other communities.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  19. Tema Port Director organises health walk for workers

    The Director of Tema Port led staff, management, and stakeholders through a health walk aimed at promoting healthy living and workplace wellness amid Ghana's growing burden of non-communicable diseases, which account for between 42 and 45 percent of all deaths in the country.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  20. GhanaThink Junior Camp guides Wa SHS students on career paths

    About 400 Form 1 and Form 2 students at Wa Senior High School participated in the inaugural GhanaThink Junior Camp, where professionals from law, medicine, arts, tourism, entrepreneurship, higher education, and media provided mentorship and career guidance through group sessions and networking opportunities.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  21. Government suspends Makola Market demolition after traders protest

    Following traders' protests over concerns about livelihoods and inadequate consultation, the government has suspended its planned demolition of sections of Makola Market for redevelopment. The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection said consultations with affected traders will continue before any further action is taken.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  22. GNFS contains Suame Magazine fire; one dead, properties destroyed

    A major fire swept through Suame Magazine Zone 18 in Kumasi early on Saturday, May 16, 2026, killing a 70-year-old woman and destroying three wooden structures, three metal containers, four vehicles, and nine DAF vehicle engines. The Ghana National Fire Service brought the blaze under control by 3:59 a.m. and fully extinguished it by 4:51 a.m.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  23. 70-year-old woman dies in Suame Magazine Zone 18 fire

    A fire outbreak at Suame Magazine Zone 18 in Ashanti Region killed 70-year-old Bawama Naya early on Saturday, May 16. The blaze destroyed three wooden structures, three metal containers, four vehicles and nine DAF vehicle engines before firefighters brought it under control; the cause is yet to be established.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

Culture

  1. Afrotoons animation studio launches in Accra with African storytelling mission

    Afrotoons, an animation studio focused on bringing African stories to global audiences, officially launched in Accra with a premiere of its flagship animated series Selase's Adventures, attended by cultural leaders, diplomats, and development sector stakeholders across Africa.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Afrotoons launches animation studio in Accra with African stories

    Afrotoons, an animation studio focused on bringing African stories to global audiences, officially launched in Accra with a high-energy event attended by cultural leaders, diplomats, and stakeholders. The launch marks a milestone in the studio's mission to build a globally scalable platform for African children's content, starting with its flagship animated series Selase's Adventures.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Germany-based reggae musician plans Smile Festival in Ghana

    Ras Opoku, a Germany-based Ghanaian reggae musician who has built a following in Europe, is planning to host the "Smile Festival" in Ghana later this year to connect with audiences in the country and promote positivity through music. He has already initiated discussions with Ghanaian performers including Queen Asabia, Rocky Dawuni and Bongofari to participate in the event in Accra.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Nhyira FM hosts annual Fufu Party, feeds thousand Kumasi residents

    Nhyira FM, an Akan radio station in the Ashanti Region, held its annual Fufu Party in Kumasi on Saturday, feeding about 1,000 patrons with fufu from five local restaurants. The event brought community members together and exceeded the organizers' target for attendance.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

Sport

  1. Semenyo scores winning FA Cup goal for Manchester City

    Antoine Semenyo scored a 72nd-minute flicked finish to secure Manchester City's FA Cup victory against Chelsea. The 26-year-old, who was on loan at non-league Bath City eight years ago, said the goal "happened perfectly" and reflected on competing for trophies at the top level after a long journey.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Ghana's relay team claims bronze at African Senior Athletics Championships

    Ghana's men's 4x100m relay team won bronze at the 2026 African Senior Athletics Championships, clocking 38.74 seconds at the University of Ghana Stadium. Ivory Coast took gold (38.52 seconds) and Nigeria silver (38.70 seconds), as Ghana's medal tally reached four.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Black Queens forward donates supplies to lower-division women's club

    Ghana international Mary Amponsah donated water and bottled drinks to women's Division One League side Blacoe Soccer Queens during their competition in the Ghana Football Association's Regional Championship. The donation was intended to motivate the hometown club as they seek promotion to the 2026/27 Women's Premier League.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Ghana to send 40 athletes to Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

    Ghana's Olympic Committee will send a contingent of 40 athletes and support staff to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, a sharp decline from the 100 athletes sent to Birmingham 2022, partly due to the Games Federation cutting the sporting program from 19 sports to 10 as a cost-saving measure.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. Manchester United agrees Carrick as permanent manager

    Manchester United have reached an agreement with Michael Carrick to become permanent head coach on a two-year deal with a one-year option, following his interim success that led the club to Champions League qualification. An announcement is expected within 48 hours, though the formal process of exchanging contracts is still underway.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. Modern football sees shift in player-manager authority balance

    Football culture is changing as players increasingly resist full adaptation to managers' tactical systems, with declining belief in a manager's vision now linked to poor results and internal dressing-room dynamics at top clubs.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. Ghana's women's relay team wins bronze at African Championships

    Ghana's women's 4x100m relay team claimed bronze with a time of 44.85 seconds at the African Senior Athletics Championships at the University of Ghana Stadium, finishing behind Nigeria (gold, 42.94 seconds) and Liberia (silver, 43.05 seconds).

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. Ghana's Commonwealth Games participation threatened by funding delay

    The Ghana Olympic Committee president has appealed to government to release a Parliament-approved GH₵12 million budget for Commonwealth Games preparations, with just over two months until the event. Ghana will send 40 athletes to compete in athletics, boxing, judo, and para-sports categories, 60 fewer than its Birmingham contingent.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Xabi Alonso agrees four-year deal as Chelsea head coach

    Xabi Alonso has agreed to become Chelsea's next permanent head coach on a four-year contract, after the club sacked Liam Rosenior in April. The former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen manager will be involved in Chelsea's summer transfer plans.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. UCC wins 9th Mini GUSA Games; UPSA hosts universities

    The Ghana University Sports Association concluded the 9th Mini GUSA Games at UPSA from May 5–15, 2026, bringing together student-athletes from multiple universities to compete in football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, badminton, athletics and other disciplines. UCC emerged as overall champions with 50 medals, followed by UEW with 47 and KNUST with 39.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Antoine Semenyo scores winner in Man City's 2026 FA Cup victory

    Ghana international Antoine Semenyo scored in the 70th minute to give Manchester City a 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the 2026 FA Cup final at Wembley, securing City's eighth FA Cup crown.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

World & Region

  1. Canadian from hantavirus cruise ship tests positive

    A Canadian who sailed on the cruise ship MV Hondius, which was hit by a hantavirus outbreak in April, has tested positive for the disease with mild symptoms. The case brings the total number of infections to 11, all among cruise passengers, with three deaths.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. US and Nigeria kill senior Islamic State leader in joint operation

    Nigeria and the United States say they have killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described by US President Donald Trump as the "second in command of ISIS globally," in a joint operation in the Lake Chad Basin. Al-Minuki was killed along with several of his lieutenants during a strike on his compound in Metele, Borno state, with Nigerian and US forces reporting zero casualties.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Ebola outbreak kills 80 in DR Congo's Ituri province

    Africa's health agency has declared an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo's eastern Ituri province, with around 246 cases and 80 deaths reported mainly in gold-mining towns. Uganda confirmed one imported case, with a 59-year-old male who died testing positive.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Hamas commander Izz ad-Din al-Haddad killed in Gaza air strike

    Hamas has confirmed that Izz ad-Din al-Haddad, commander of its armed wing, was killed in an Israeli air strike in Gaza City on Friday. Israel said Haddad was responsible for the deaths and injuries of thousands of Israelis and was one of the architects of the October 7 massacre.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. Over 50 children kidnapped from northeastern Nigeria schools Friday

    Suspected Islamist militants abducted more than 50 schoolchildren, including toddlers as young as two years old, from three schools in Borno State's Askira-Uba Local Government Area on Friday morning. The coordinated assault targeted Government Day Secondary School, Mussa Central Primary School, and SUBEB Primary School, with gunmen striking around 9:00 a.m. local time while classes were in session.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. Trump warns Taiwan against declaring independence after China summit

    US President Donald Trump cautioned Taiwan against formally declaring independence from China following his two-day summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Trump stated he is not looking to have Taiwan go independent and said US policy on the matter has not changed.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. Ghana Navy rescues seven Ivorian stowaways off Tema

    The Ghana Navy rescued seven suspected Ivorian stowaways from the rudder trunk of a Belgium-registered crude oil tanker, MT Cap Felix, approximately 200 nautical miles south of Tema Harbour, after receiving a distress alert from the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Abidjan. Naval personnel from GNS Achimota extricated the male suspects and transported them safely to Tema Harbour.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. More than 50 schoolchildren kidnapped in Nigeria

    Gunmen have kidnapped more than 50 children from three schools in north-eastern Nigeria; most of those missing are aged between two and five years old. Eyewitnesses say the suspects used the children as human shields while fleeing on motorbikes, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Man dies after detention in Dublin shoplifting incident

    A man in his 30s died after being detained by security on Henry Street in Dublin in connection with an alleged shoplifting incident on Friday; an elderly man was injured as the suspect attempted to flee. The death has been referred to the Police Ombudsman and a post-mortem examination will be conducted.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Czech Republic donates digital forensic tools to Ghana Police

    The Czech Republic has donated specialised digital forensic equipment and software to Ghana's Police Cybercrime Unit to strengthen cybercrime investigation capacity. The handover, which took place in Accra on May 13, 2026, included MOBILedit Forensic software designed to extract and analyse data from mobile phones and smart devices, including deleted messages from messaging applications.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Man killed by 13ft great white shark in Western Australia

    A 38-year-old man was bitten and killed by a 13ft great white shark at Horseshoe Reef near Perth on Saturday, marking the first fatal shark attack in Western Australia since March last year.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  12. Lebanon reports six killed in Israeli strike; US extends ceasefire

    Lebanon's health ministry said an Israeli air strike on the southern town of Harouf killed six people, including three paramedics. The US announced that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to extend their ceasefire for 45 days following talks in Washington DC.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  13. Freight train hits bus in Bangkok; eight dead, dozens injured

    A freight train collided with a public bus near Makkasan train station in Bangkok on Saturday, killing at least eight people and injuring dozens. The crash triggered a fire that engulfed the bus; initial reports suggest the bus had stopped on the tracks amid heavy traffic, preventing crossing barriers from closing, and the train could not stop in time.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  14. Rescue diver dies during search for drowned Italian divers

    A rescue diver, Staff Sgt Mohamed Mahdhee, died while searching for the bodies of Italians who drowned in a scuba-diving accident in the Maldives caves at around 50m depth. The incident is believed to be the worst single diving accident in the Maldives, with one Italian body so far recovered at around 60m depth.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  15. Israeli air strike kills Hamas armed wing commander in Gaza

    Hamas confirmed that Izz ad-Din al-Haddad, commander of the group's armed wing, was killed in an Israeli air strike in Gaza City on Friday. Israeli officials described him as responsible for Israeli civilian and soldier casualties and an architect of the October 7 attack.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  16. US and Nigeria kill senior Islamic State leader in joint operation

    Nigeria and the United States say they have killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described by US President Donald Trump as the "second in command of ISIS globally," in a joint operation in the Lake Chad Basin. The strike on his compound in Metele, Borno state also killed several of his lieutenants, and the Nigerian military reported zero casualties among their forces.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  17. Tens of thousands protest in London amid heavy police presence

    Two rival marches took place in London—a Unite the Kingdom rally and a pro-Palestinian demonstration marking Nakba Day—with more than 4,000 police officers deployed to manage the protests, described as one of the most significant policing operations in years.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  18. Trump warns Taiwan against formal independence following Beijing summit

    US President Donald Trump cautioned Taiwan against formally declaring independence from China following his summit with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Beijing. Trump said he had "made no commitment either way" about Taiwan and reiterated that US policy on the matter had not changed.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  19. WHO escalates response to Ebola outbreak in DR Congo

    The World Health Organisation has increased emergency support to the Democratic Republic of the Congo following confirmation of an Ebola Bundibugyo outbreak in Ituri Province, where at least 67 suspected community deaths have been recorded and tests confirmed the virus in 13 of 20 samples collected from suspected cases.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  20. Man drives car into pedestrians in Italian city, injures eight

    A man drove his car into pedestrians in Modena, Italy, and attempted to stab them, injuring eight people including two seriously; passers-by detained him pending investigation.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  21. Taiwan asserts independence status after Trump cautions against declaration

    Taiwan's presidential spokesperson said it is "self-evident" that Taiwan is "a sovereign, independent democratic country," after US President Trump warned against formal independence and said he had made no commitment either way about the island following talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump also said he would soon decide on an $11bn weapons package for Taiwan's self-defence.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  22. Colorado governor criticized for commuting 2020 election denier's sentence

    Colorado Governor Jared Polis commuted the sentence of former county clerk Tina Peters, convicted of tampering with election equipment in 2024 and who promoted false claims of 2020 election fraud, prompting backlash from fellow Democrats including the state's Secretary of State, who called it "an affront to our democracy."

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  23. Humpback whale rescued in Germany found dead near Denmark

    A humpback whale that became stranded on a German sandbank in March and was rescued via water-filled barge in early May has been found dead near a Danish island. The Danish Environmental Protection Agency confirmed the whale's identity and retrieved its tracking device but said there are no concrete plans to remove the carcass or perform a necropsy.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  24. African Union concerned as Somalia talks end without agreement

    The African Union Commission expressed concern after high-level negotiations between Somalia's Federal Government and the Somali Future Council in Mogadishu (May 13–15) ended without consensus. The Commission commended both sides' willingness to engage in dialogue and urged all parties to recommit to inclusive political negotiation guided by mutual compromise.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

Opinion

  1. Pension funds proposed to address Ghana university hostel crisis

    An opinion piece argues that pension funds could help solve Ghana's university hostel accommodation crisis, where costs range from GHC7,000 to GHC24,000 and have become unaffordable for many students and families already struggling with tuition and living expenses.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Government policies, not IMF, drove Ghana's economic recovery

    Dr Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, Deputy Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress Ghana, argues that Ghana's recent economic recovery has been largely driven by domestic government policy decisions and favourable global conditions—particularly rising gold prices—rather than IMF influence. He notes that key indicators like inflation had already begun improving before the IMF programme fully took effect, dropping from 54% in 2020 to about 23% by the time the IMF engaged.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Mahama government achieves Ghana's fastest economic recovery

    An opinion piece by Franklin Cudjoe credits the current Mahama administration with delivering Ghana's fastest economic recovery, citing achievements including IMF programme exit, declining inflation, debt reduction from 65% to 45% of GDP in one year, and strengthened international reserves.

    16 May 2026 · Joy Online →

Ghana Minute