Ghana Minute.
Sunday, 21 June 2026
Ghana’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Sunday, 21 June 2026
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Archive Minute from Sunday, 21 June 2026

Politics

  1. Mahama jokes about Father's Day gifts versus First Lady's Mother's Day

    President John Dramani Mahama posted a light-hearted Father's Day comparison on Facebook showing fewer bouquets he received compared to the large number First Lady Lordina Mahama received on Mother's Day, with the caption "Fathers! Hmmm!!!" to humorously highlight that fathers often receive less recognition than mothers.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  2. NPP lawmaker urges Bawumia to persevere through political hardship

    Samuel Awuku, Member of Parliament for Akuapim North and former NPP National Organiser, has sent a message of solidarity to NPP flagbearer Mahamudu Bawumia, urging him to remain steadfast through current political challenges, invoking the examples of former Presidents Kufuor and Akufo-Addo who overcame similar adversities before achieving electoral success.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Asantehene declares loyalty to duly elected presidents, not parties

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, stated in Toronto that he works with whichever President Ghanaians elect and offers counsel to the current administration. He has advised every President since Jerry John Rawlings and continues to do so with President Mahama, maintaining that his loyalty lies with the sovereign will of the people rather than any political party.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  4. IGP deploys special operations team to Nkwanta after attacks

    The Inspector-General of Police has deployed a Special Operations Support Team to Nkwanta in the Oti Region following recent attacks that resulted in deaths and injuries. The deployment is part of intensified security measures to restore calm and ensure public safety while investigations continue.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Economist Dr. Stephen Lartey appointed Finance Ministry Technical Adviser

    Dr. Stephen Lartey, an economist with more than 15 years of experience in economic research, financial-sector leadership and policy analysis, has been appointed Technical Adviser to the Minister for Finance. He holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Sussex and is known for his evidence-based commentary on Ghana's economy, public finances and fiscal policy.

    21 June 2026 · Business & Financial Times

  6. Kristo Asafo lawyer claims Adwoa Safo fired first shot at church event

    The lawyer for Kristo Asafo Church alleges that former Dome Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo fired the first shot during a disrupted church event introducing a newly appointed leader, after attempting to force her vehicle through the gates; security personnel responded with warning shots. The lawyer stated he could not confirm whether Adwoa Safo was wounded.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  7. Mahama extends Father's Day wishes to Ghanaian men

    President John Dramani Mahama posted a Father's Day message urging men to continue building the next generation, acknowledging the important role fathers play in shaping families and society.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  8. Bibiani NPP members demand regional chair resignation over aspirant disqualifications

    Members of the NPP in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Constituency are calling for the resignation of the Western North Regional Chairman over the disqualification of 126 aspirants seeking Electoral Area Executive Committee Coordinator positions. The group has filed legal action and warned of a no-confidence vote if the regional chairman does not step down, accusing him and other party officials of mismanagement and using "mafia tactics" in internal elections.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  9. Kristo Asafo Church denies shooting claim involving Adwoa Safo

    The Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana has rejected social media claims that former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo was shot by her brother during an incident at the church's Kwabenya property, stating that no shooting occurred.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  10. Kristo Asafo Mission denies Sarah Adwoa Safo was shot at ceremony

    The Kristo Asafo Mission has accused former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo of misleading the public about sustaining gunshot wounds during an enstoolment ceremony on its Kwabenya property on June 21, 2026, saying she instead forcefully drove her vehicle into the entrance gates. The mission categorically rejected media and social media claims that Ms. Safo was shot by her brother, stating no such shooting occurred.

    21 June 2026 · The Ghanaian Times

Business

  1. Ghana ranked highest policy rate in Africa at 14.0%

    Ghana has the highest policy rate among 44 African countries at 14.0%, according to the AfDB 2026 African Economic Outlook, though it has dropped significantly in the past year. The country's average lending rate remains elevated at 16.33% in April 2026, down from 20.58% in January 2026.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  2. SMEs urged to embrace compliance, innovation, resilience

    At Zenith Bank Ghana's SME Business Empowerment Lab, experts called on small and medium-sized enterprises to strengthen regulatory compliance, build resilience, and embrace digital innovation to sustain growth in a changing economy. The Chief Operating Officer of Zenith Bank noted that business success now depends on adaptation to change, regulatory compliance, risk management, and scalable operational systems.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Government records 20% undersubscription on treasury bills

    The government received GH¢4.20 billion in treasury bill bids against a target of GH¢5.27 billion, representing a 20% undersubscription, though all bids were accepted. Interest rates on the yield curve continued to rise, with the 91-day bill yield increasing to 5.30%, the 182-day to 7.13%, and the 364-day to 11.36%.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  4. Emirates adds four weekly Dubai-Accra flights from July 2026

    Emirates Airlines is introducing four additional weekly services between Dubai and Accra starting July 12, 2026, operated by Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The expansion complements the airline's existing daily operation and aims to respond to growing travel demand and provide better connections to destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe and North America.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

Agriculture & Land

  1. CIKOD launches Ghana Universities Movement for Agro-Ecology

    The Centre for Indigenous Knowledge and Organisational Development (CIKOD) has officially launched the Ghana Universities Movement for Agro-Ecology (GUMA) at Dr Hilla Limann Technical University, aimed at reigniting youth interest in indigenous agriculture and local consumption. The launch event, held during the university's SRC week, included a debate on Ghanaians' preference for imported products over locally produced food.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

Society

  1. NCPTA backs ban on lavish school graduation ceremonies

    The National Council of Parent Teacher Associations has endorsed a Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service directive banning extravagant, profit-driven graduation ceremonies in pre-tertiary schools, arguing that such lavish events promote materialism and entitlement among children rather than discipline and moral values.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Central NADMO orders evacuation of unsafe buildings in 14 days

    The Central Regional Directorate of NADMO has issued a final evacuation order to residents and businesses in structurally weak and dilapidated buildings across the region, requiring them to vacate within 14 days as the rainy season intensifies. The agency warned that buildings still occupied after the grace period would be subject to enforced demolition by assemblies, with costs borne by property owners.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Assemblies of God chief urges pastors to shun negative attitudes

    Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, has advised pastors to avoid negative attitudes such as grumbling and over-anxiety, which he says undermine credibility and harm congregations. He urged spiritual discipline through prayer, Bible study, and meditation to guard against pessimism.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  4. World Cup fans should breathe, hydrate, choose healthy snacks

    During the FIFA World Cup, fans experience an emotional and physical workout that can lead to stress and unhealthy habits; the article advises fans to maintain three simple health practices: proper breathing, adequate water intake, and healthy snacking.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Ghana Young Academy backs new research fund, seeks dedicated support

    The Ghana Young Academy has endorsed the newly launched Ghana National Research Fund as an important investment in research and innovation, while calling for dedicated funding tracks specifically for early- and mid-career scientists.

    21 June 2026 · The Chronicle

  6. Pastor granted bail over careless driving that injured passengers

    A 55-year-old pastor, Francis Owusu, was granted GHS 100,000 bail by Nkawie Circuit Court after his vehicle collided head-on with a bus carrying 14 passengers on April 21, 2026, injuring seven of them. He pleaded guilty to careless driving but not guilty to causing harm, and is to reappear on July 27, 2026.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  7. Church leadership dispute over founder's successor goes to court

    Two senior members of the Kristo Asafo Mission have filed a High Court suit in Accra challenging the eligibility of Israel Kwadwo Safo to succeed the late founder Apostle Kwadwo Safo, arguing the proposed succession violates the church's constitution.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  8. Cape Coast mudslide kills toddler, injures three women

    A rain-triggered landslide in Tantri, Cape Coast, swept down a hillside on Friday evening and destroyed three homes, killing a 20-month-old toddler and injuring three women. The family head said residents had never experienced a mudslide of such magnitude in the area before.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  9. Technical universities urged to reform education for AI era

    Technical universities in Ghana have been urged to undertake extensive reforms in education, research, and industry engagement to remain relevant in an era dominated by Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies. The rector of a Dutch university told Ho Technical University that AI-driven transformation is an urgent necessity, and that higher education should shift focus from memorisation to critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  10. National Juniors Challenge to expand to 800 schools, add STEM Fair

    The founder of the National Juniors Challenge announced plans to introduce a STEM Fair from next year as the eighth edition of Ghana's junior high school quiz competition expands. This year's contest will introduce Information Technology as a competition component and offer cash prizes at semi-finals for the first time, made possible through Zincovit's headline sponsorship.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  11. National Juniors Challenge eighth edition launches with 46 schools

    The National Juniors Challenge, an academic quiz competition for Junior High School pupils organised by the UNIWIZ Foundation and recognised by the Ghana Education Service, held its eighth edition launch on June 19, 2026. Forty-six schools advanced to the national championship after regional qualifiers involving 286 schools, with new additions including cash prizes for semi-finalists and Information Technology as a competition subject.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  12. Eighth National Juniors Challenge launched with 46 schools competing

    The eighth edition of the National Juniors Challenge, a nationwide quiz competition for JHS and primary school pupils, has officially launched with 46 schools drawn to compete in the national championship following regional qualifying contests involving 286 schools. The competition, organised by the Uniwiz Foundation and recognised by the Ghana Education Service, is headlined by Zincovit, a nutritional supplement.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  13. Menstrual Dignity Project builds washroom facilities for schoolgirls

    Two newly constructed school washroom facilities have been commissioned in Amanase, Eastern Region, under the Menstrual Dignity Project, an initiative led by CEIBS GEMBA 2025 cohort and Fairafric Ghana Limited. The project addresses menstrual health through hygiene education, sanitary kit distribution, and dedicated facilities to reduce school absences and improve girls' wellbeing.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  14. Presidential staff donate ₵6.1m to Ghana Medical Trust Fund

    Senior presidential staff and advisers have donated GH¢6.1 million to the National Medical Trust Fund, comprising President John Mahama's six months' salary and one month's salary contributions from presidential appointees and staffers. The cheque was presented on June 15 by the Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration), Nana Oye Bampoe Addo.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  15. Four dead, two critical in Metro Mass bus accident on Peki stretch

    A Metro Mass Transit bus travelling from Accra to Dambai veered off the road and plunged into a ditch on the Peki stretch in Volta Region on Sunday, killing four of the 28 people on board and leaving two others in critical condition. Two pregnant women were among those affected in the crash, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  16. Police reinforce Kwabenya security after gunfire incident

    Ghana Police Service has significantly reinforced security at the Akofena Palace in Kwabenya following a reported gunfire incident on Sunday that injured former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo during activities connected to the installation of a successor to the late founder of the Kristo Asafo Mission.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  17. Kristo Asafo Church to probe gunfire at leadership ceremony

    The Kristo Asafo Church announced it will conduct its own investigation into a gunfire incident that disrupted a ceremony introducing the church's newly appointed leader, the successor to late founder Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka. The church's lawyer said authorities would cooperate with ongoing security agency investigations and pursue an internal probe to identify and prosecute any wrongdoing.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  18. Security fires warning shots at Kristo Asafo church leadership event

    Lawyer Nana Kofi Kantanka said security personnel at a Kristo Asafo church gathering fired warning shots after a vehicle attempted to breach the gates during a constitutional leadership selection process. The incident disrupted an event where the Council of Elders was formally introducing a newly appointed leader to the general council.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  19. Former Dome-Kwabenya MP sustains gunshot wound to ear

    Sarah Adwoa Safo, former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, sustained a gunshot injury to her left ear during an incident at her late father's residence in Kwabenya. Police have launched investigations and retained her vehicle for forensic examination, while a church lawyer has alleged she fired the first shot during a church event.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  20. Frimpong-Manso Institute urges fathers deeper involvement in families, communities

    The Frimpong-Manso Institute has commended fathers as essential pillars in homes and society while calling on them to deepen involvement in their children's and communities' lives to protect against social challenges including drugs, pornography, and gambling.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  21. Police investigate unidentified man's death at Tema assembly

    An unidentified man collapsed and died at the Tema Metropolitan Assembly forecourt on Friday morning; eyewitnesses reported a substance coming from his mouth before he lost consciousness. The body has been sent to the morgue, and authorities are investigating the incident.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  22. Former Dome-Kwabenya MP injured in alleged shooting incident

    Sarah Adwoa Safo, former Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament, is receiving medical treatment after gunmen allegedly opened fire on her vehicle near her brother's residence on Sunday during a gathering connected to succession efforts within the Kristo Asafo Mission. She was struck by a bullet near her neck but is reported to be in stable condition.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  23. Former Gender Minister Adwoa Safo shot by unidentified gunmen

    Sarah Adwoa Safo, ex-Dome-Kwabenya MP and former Gender Minister, was allegedly shot during a family gathering for the installation of a new Safo Kantanka family head following her father's death. She has been rushed to hospital.

    21 June 2026 · The Chronicle

  24. GMet forecasts cloudy skies and intermittent rains nationwide

    The Ghana Meteorological Agency has forecast continued cloudy conditions and intermittent rainfall across the country over the next 24 hours, with thunderstorms expected in some areas and moderate rainfall risks in coastal, forest and transition zones. Temperatures are expected to range between 26°C and 29°C for highs and 21°C to 24°C for lows.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  25. Ghanaian medicinal plant extract shows promise against prostate cancer

    Researchers at KNUST found that a hydroethanolic root extract of Croton membranaceus (Bokum), a plant traditionally used in Ghana for prostate disorders, significantly suppressed angiogenesis and reduced blood vessel density in prostate cancer tissue in laboratory models. The study, published in Cancer Cell International, suggests the extract may help slow prostate cancer growth by blocking the formation of blood vessels that feed tumours.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  26. Marigold Foundation distributes sanitary pads to 1,500 girls

    The Marigold Foundation distributed sanitary pads to 1,500 girls in Agona East District as part of its annual Menstrual Hygiene and Advocacy Drive. The Foundation also educated the girls on personal hygiene and responsible behaviour, with its founder emphasising the need for mentorship and support systems beyond pad distribution.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  27. Two killed in Cape Coast building collapse after heavy rain

    A single-room structure collapsed at Gyagyaano in Cape Coast on Sunday, June 21, following heavy rainfall that weakened the building. Four occupants were trapped and rescued, but two died: 12-year-old Anastasia Abakah and 40-year-old Adwoa Baduwa.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  28. Six security guards arrested over Kwabenya shooting incident

    Ghana Police Service arrested six private security guards following a shooting incident at a Kwabenya residence on 21 June 2026 involving former Gender, Children and Social Protection Minister Sarah Adwoa Safo. Police recovered five pump-action guns, one Taurus pistol with ammunition, and communication equipment from the scene; preliminary findings indicate armed security personnel discharged firearms during a confrontation when Safo was denied entry to the residence.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  29. Police arrest six guards in Sarah Adwoa Safo shooting incident

    Ghana Police Service has arrested six private security guards in connection with a shooting incident involving former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo at Kwabenya. A search retrieved five pump-action guns and a loaded Taurus pistol; investigations indicate armed security personnel at a residence allegedly discharged firearms when Ms. Safo requested entry but was denied access, injuring her and damaging her vehicle.

    21 June 2026 · The Ghanaian Times

  30. Police investigate shooting incident involving former MP Sarah Adwoa Safo

    Madina Divisional Police Command is investigating a shooting incident involving former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo that occurred on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at her late father's residence in Kwabenya. Ms. Safo sustained a gunshot wound to her left ear and her vehicle has been impounded for forensic examination.

    21 June 2026 · The Ghanaian Times

  31. Former MP Sarah Adwoa Sarfo shot at father's residence

    Former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya Sarah Adwoa Sarfo reported that upon arriving at her late father's residence in Kwabenya on Saturday morning, her brother Nana Kwadwo Sarfo Akofena ordered security personnel to open fire on her. She sustained gunshot injuries to her left ear and right hand and reported the incident to police.

    21 June 2026 · The Chronicle

Culture

  1. David Hockney's funeral held with only two mourners present

    British artist David Hockney, 88, died at his London home earlier this month. As per his wishes, only his partner Jean-Pierre Goncalves de Lima and his great-nephew Richard Hockney attended his funeral, with memorial services planned for 2025 in London, Los Angeles, Paris, and Yorkshire.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Ablakwa praises UG School of Performing Arts slave trade reenactment

    Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has praised the University of Ghana's School of Performing Arts for a reenactment of the transatlantic slave trade at Osu Castle, noting the performance has attracted international invitations from Barbados, Jamaica and the United States.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I installed as Kristo Asafo Mission leader

    The Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana has installed Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I, son of late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, as the new head of the church, announced on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The installation comes amid reports of a court injunction seeking to halt the process and unconfirmed reports of an alleged shooting incident.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

Sport

  1. Pegula beats Sabalenka in Berlin semis, reaches final

    Jessica Pegula defeated world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 6-7 (4-7), 6-0 in the Berlin Open semi-final, with Sabalenka losing the deciding set without winning a game. Pegula will face Czech player Linda Noskova in Sunday's final.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Messi, Mbappe, Kane poised to break World Cup goal records

    With the 2026 World Cup underway, Lionel Messi has matched Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup goal record of 16 after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina's opening match, while Kylian Mbappe (14 goals) and Harry Kane (10 goals) are also positioned to set new records in the tournament.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  3. England players free to decide on Partey handshake at World Cup

    England's FA will not direct players on whether to shake hands with Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey before their FIFA World Cup Group D match on Tuesday. Partey, who faces criminal charges in England but denies all allegations, is expected to feature after visa issues ruled him out of Ghana's opening win over Panama.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  4. VAR official cleared by FIFA returns to duty

    Video assistant referee Shaun Evans has been appointed to officiate New Zealand's match against Egypt on Sunday, his first appointment since a FIFA investigation cleared him of making an inappropriate hand gesture during Germany's match against Curacao.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Liverpool rejects €25m Inter Milan bid for Curtis Jones

    Liverpool have turned down a verbal offer of 25 million euros from Inter Milan for midfielder Curtis Jones, valuing him at £35m instead. It is the second time Inter have pursued Jones this year, having also proposed a loan deal in January.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  6. Belgium draws with Iran despite playing with ten men

    Belgium and Iran drew 0-0 in a World Cup Group G match in Los Angeles, with Belgium reduced to ten men when defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off for a professional foul on Mehdi Taremi. Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand made several key saves to secure the draw, which marks Iran's first time avoiding defeat in their opening two World Cup matches.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  7. 2026 World Cup reaches 100 goals in record 33 matches

    The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada, has reached 100 goals in its 33rd game — the fastest since 1958 — with an average of 3.09 goals per game. The tournament is on course to surpass 300 goals, with Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo scoring the century-mark goal in the Netherlands' 5-1 win over Sweden.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  8. Doku criticised for wanting to leave World Cup for child's birth

    Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku has faced criticism for saying he wants to leave Belgium's World Cup camp to be present when his wife gives birth to their first child in July. French sports presenter France Pierron claimed a father is "completely useless" at the time of birth and argued the World Cup opportunity should take priority.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  9. Netherlands beat Sweden 5–1 to lead Group F

    The Netherlands stormed to the top of Group F after securing a thrilling victory over Sweden with braces from Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo in Houston. Sweden scored one goal through Anthony Elanga, but fell to second place, one point behind the Dutch.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  10. Lamine Yamal impresses in Spain's 4-0 World Cup win

    The 18-year-old Lamine Yamal started Spain's match against Saudi Arabia after being limited to 19 minutes in their previous goalless draw with Cape Verde, and was central to Spain's dominant 4-0 performance. His impact lifted the atmosphere and transformed the first half with confident play that impressed former team-mate Cesar Azpilicueta.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  11. Serena Williams accepts Wimbledon singles wildcard entry

    Serena Williams will compete in singles at Wimbledon later this month after accepting a wildcard to the women's main draw. The 44-year-old has won seven Wimbledon singles titles and returns to singles competition for the first time in over four years.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  12. Brazil beats Haiti 3-0 but fails to impress at World Cup

    Brazil defeated Haiti 3-0 in their second 2026 World Cup group match, with goals from Matheus Cunha and Vinicius Jr before half-time, but registered no shots on target in the second half while Haiti had seven attempts, prompting questions about when the best version of Brazil will appear in the tournament.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  13. Tunisia eliminated from World Cup after heavy Japan defeat

    Tunisia's World Cup campaign ended with a loss to Japan, confirming their inability to progress from the group stage. Japan dominated the match with goals from Daichi Kamada, Ayase Ueda (twice), and Junya Ito, while Tunisia struggled to create meaningful chances.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  14. Jordan Ayew urges Black Stars focus ahead of England match

    Ghana captain Jordan Ayew has called on his teammates to remain focused and build on their 1-0 opening victory over Panama as they prepare for their FIFA World Cup Group L fixture against England. Ayew credited the team's improved second-half performance, substitutions, and collective effort for the win and said the character and resilience shown would be crucial against one of the tournament favourites.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  15. Queiroz backs teenage midfielder Yirenkyi for Ghana future

    Coach Carlos Queiroz has praised teenage sensation Caleb Yirenkyi as a future midfield cornerstone for Ghana following the Black Stars' 1-0 victory over Panama in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Queiroz clarified that Yirenkyi's best position is midfield, dismissing suggestions he should play at right-back.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

Tourism & Environment

  1. Joy Safari Escape Father's Day getaway launches in Ada

    The Joy Safari Escape, a two-day premium Father's Day getaway at Aqua Safari Resort in Ada, kicked off on Saturday, June 20, 2026, offering fathers and father figures relaxation, entertainment, and family bonding through river tours, eco-park activities, and wildlife encounters at the Volta River.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

World & Region

  1. UK PM Starmer resignation reports disputed; source says focused on job

    The Observer newspaper reported that Prime Minister Keir Starmer was expected to resign on Monday, but a government source said he remained focused on governing. Starmer's position has faced increased pressure since his rival Andy Burnham won a parliamentary seat that could enable a formal leadership challenge.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  2. Simons demands transparency on 320kg meth seizure from Ghana

    Australia's border police seized methamphetamines worth approximately $210 million in street value hidden in charcoal containers shipped from Ghana in April 2026. Bright Simons criticizes Ghanaian security agencies for providing no updates on the bust and notes that any charcoal export from Ghana requires permits from the Energy Commission, raising questions about how the shipment was cleared.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  3. Meloni rebuffs Trump over popularity amid escalating diplomatic row

    Italy's Giorgia Meloni responded to US President Donald Trump's criticism of her popularity on social media, telling him to focus on his own while denying his claims that she had repeatedly requested a photo with him. The exchange reflects a developing rift between the two countries over US military operations in Iran and Italian base usage.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  4. US-Iran nuclear talks resume in Switzerland amid regional tensions

    Direct talks between the US and Iran are set to begin in Switzerland despite Iran's military claiming it closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israeli strikes in Lebanon. US Vice-President JD Vance and Iranian officials arrived for negotiations expected to cover nuclear issues and Lebanon ceasefire efforts, with Pakistan mediating.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  5. Soyinka urges African leaders to pursue practical reparations strategies

    Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka addressed the Next Steps Consultative Conference on Reparatory Justice in Accra, challenging African leaders to move beyond rhetorical engagement and implement concrete strategies for reparatory justice for the transatlantic slave trade and colonial exploitation. He stressed that psychological liberation of continental Africans and the diaspora must be central to the campaign.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  6. Indian medical students resit exam under heightened security after leak

    Millions of Indian medical students resit the NEET-UG entrance exam under unprecedented security measures after the original May 3 exam was cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. The resit took place Sunday with biometric checks, metal detectors, armoured patrols, and deployment of the Indian Air Force and paramilitary officers at exam centres nationwide.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  7. Prince William celebrates 44th birthday and Father's Day

    The Prince of Wales marked his 44th birthday and Father's Day with a family photo shared by the Royal Family, showing him in Welsh Guards uniform with his daughter Princess Charlotte. The Princess of Wales and their three children captioned the image with birthday wishes, while the King also shared birthday greetings through the official Royal Family Instagram account.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  8. Crimea suspends public fuel sales as Ukraine attacks oil facilities

    Russian-backed authorities in occupied Crimea have suspended public fuel sales, restricting distribution to government agencies only, after Ukraine's continued attacks on the peninsula's supply routes and oil infrastructure. The conflict has caused shortages and logistical difficulties, with both sides reporting casualties from recent strikes.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  9. Ethiopia's Abiy Ahmed wins landslide amid conflict fears

    Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Prosperity Party won 438 of 501 contested parliamentary seats in the general election, securing his return to power despite the poll being overshadowed by conflict, accusations of repression, and limited opposition participation. Although supporters see economic gains continuing, security experts fear internal divisions and insurgencies in the Amhara and Oromia regions could worsen.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  10. France restricts alcohol at music festival amid severe heatwave

    France has banned alcohol at state-organized events during the annual Fête de la Musique festival on Sunday as a severe heatwave pushes temperatures towards 39-40°C across a third of the country, with authorities warning the restrictions aim to preserve emergency and healthcare services.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  11. US-Iran talks begin in Switzerland amid strait closure claims

    Direct talks between the US and Iran are set to begin in Switzerland, with delegations led by US Vice-President JD Vance and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arriving on Sunday. Iran's military said it closed the Strait of Hormuz over Israel's attacks on southern Lebanon, though the US military reports traffic continues to flow; Pakistan's Prime Minister is joining as mediator.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

  12. 15-year-old dies after being struck at Donegal rally

    Tadhg Callaghan Carter, 15, was killed after being struck by a participating vehicle at the Donegal International Rally near Kilmacrennan on Saturday. Two other spectators were injured, and organisers cancelled the remaining three-day event as a mark of respect.

    21 June 2026 · Joy Online

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