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Sunday, 13 September 2026
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Sunday, 13 September 2026
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Archive Minute from Sunday, 13 September 2026
Politics

Minority alleges Ghana drug seizures exceed US$1bn in two years

The News

The Parliamentary Minority has raised alarm over Ghana's role as a transit hub for narcotics trafficking, with the Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee stating that high-profile drug seizures linked to Ghana under the NDC government now exceed US$1 billion in less than two years. He cited major seizures including a 3.3-tonne cocaine consignment at Cape Coast valued at over US$350 million and other incidents involving cocaine and methamphetamine traced to the country.

13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Politics

  1. Minority alleges Ghana drug seizures exceed US$1bn in two years

    The Parliamentary Minority has raised alarm over Ghana's role as a transit hub for narcotics trafficking, with the Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee stating that high-profile drug seizures linked to Ghana under the NDC government now exceed US$1 billion in less than two years. He cited major seizures including a 3.3-tonne cocaine consignment at Cape Coast valued at over US$350 million and other incidents involving cocaine and methamphetamine traced to the country.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Minority demands probe into Ghana's narcotics transit hub status

    Ghana's parliamentary Minority is calling for a full-scale independent inquiry into the country's emergence as a narcotics transit hub, citing high-profile drug seizures exceeding US$1 billion under the current NDC administration over the past 18 months, including a 3.3-tonne cocaine interception in Cape Coast and other major confiscations.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Mahama declines to continue Akufo-Addo's National Cathedral project

    President John Mahama says the National Cathedral was a personal pledge by former President Akufo-Addo to God, not government policy, and his administration will not continue it using taxpayers' money. Mahama said Christians in Ghana should mobilize resources themselves for the project.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Mahama lists three concerns about National Cathedral project

    President John Mahama outlined concerns over the National Cathedral project's financing using taxpayer money, its location amid major public facilities, and the demolition of public and private properties, while clarifying he is not opposed to the idea of a national cathedral.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. Mahama says Christians can self-fund National Cathedral project

    President John Mahama says the Christian community has the capacity to finance the National Cathedral without taxpayers' money, suggesting that if Christians each contributed GH¢1,000, sufficient resources could be raised. He also raised concerns about the project's location, citing proximity to Parliament, the International Conference Centre, Greater Accra Regional Hospital, and the National Theatre.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. 48 Engineer Regiment denies Laboma demolition lacked prior notice

    The Commanding Officer of the 48 Engineer Regiment has rejected claims that property owners at Laboma were not given adequate notice before the demolition exercise, stating they were notified several weeks in advance, with the notification process beginning as early as August 5 or 6, giving roughly a month's notice before the operation started on August 27.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. Minority demands inquiry into MV Sankofa release before drug arrest

    Ghana's parliamentary Minority is calling for an independent inquiry into the Ghana Maritime Authority's release of the MV Sankofa after it was found sailing under a forged flag in July 2025. The vessel was subsequently arrested in Senegal carrying narcotics, prompting questions about who authorized a reduced fine and the decision to allow it to sail without full cargo inspection.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. Ngleshie Alata Paramount Chief urges leaders toward peace and integrity

    The Paramount Chief of Ngleshie Alata, Obrempong Dr Wetse Kojo II, called on chiefs and traditional leaders to avoid abusing traditional power and serve as agents of peace. During the installation ceremony of the Nifahene of Ngleshie Alata, Daasebre Nii Ardey Agyemang, on September 9, he urged the new Nifahene to work with religious leaders, government institutions, and civil society while opposing corruption, division, and the misuse of traditional authority.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Mahama declines National Cathedral as not inherited policy

    President John Mahama said the National Cathedral was former President Akufo-Addo's personal religious pledge rather than a government policy his administration must continue, and that Christians should privately fund it rather than use taxpayer money.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Ahafo NDC official funds 168 executives' nomination fees

    The NDC's Ahafo Regional Vice Chairman paid nomination filing fees for 168 constituency executives across the region's six constituencies ahead of September 2026 constituency-level nominations. He described the move as recognising grassroots leaders who helped the NDC win the Ahafo Region in the 2024 general elections.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Upper West Region receives GH¢101.9m DACF allocation

    The Upper West Region has received GH¢101.9 million from its District Assemblies Common Fund allocation as of the end of the second quarter, representing about 25 per cent of its total annual allocation. The funds have been directed to development projects across the region's districts and municipalities, including healthcare, education, water and sanitation infrastructure.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  12. Mahama oversees right-of-way clearance handover for Accra-Kumasi Expressway

    President John Dramani Mahama will oversee the handover of right-of-way clearance for the Accra-Kumasi Expressway Project on Monday, September 14, at Kwaso near Ejisu, marking an important step towards the project's implementation and expected to improve connectivity between the two major cities.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  13. Wa airport construction to begin soon, President Mahama assures

    President Mahama inspected the site for a new airport in Wa, assuring residents it will commence soon. Funding has been secured by Ghana Airports Company, procurement completed, and contractors selected.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  14. GRA clarifies no statutory limit on duty-free phones for travellers

    The Ghana Revenue Authority has clarified that there is no law limiting travellers to two duty-free mobile phones. Customs officers instead assess whether phones and goods are genuinely for personal use or are commercial imports, considering factors like condition, packaging, and quantity rather than applying a fixed numerical limit.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Business

  1. JoyNews-Republic Bank Habitat Fair final day event at Marina Mall

    The second JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair enters its final day on September 13 at Marina Mall in Accra, bringing together businesses and professionals from Ghana's housing and property sector to offer prospective homeowners practical solutions for financing, building, buying, renovating, and securing homes.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Ghana can grow industries while protecting environment

    Presidential Advisor Goosie Tanoh says Ghana can expand industries, create jobs and grow exports without sacrificing the environment, and that building a competitive horticultural sector requires connecting production to aggregation, processing, logistics, markets, finance, standards, skills and technology.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. CIMA president visits Ghana to engage finance professionals

    Alfred Ramosedi, president of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, will visit Ghana from September 18 to 19, 2026, to meet with finance professionals, business leaders and stakeholders about the changing role of the profession. He will serve as chief guest at a CGMA Convocation Ceremony and discuss emerging trends with leading companies and media.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Expert proposes blueprint for Ghana's 24-hour economy expansion

    A development expert presents "Job Creation Through Policy: A Blueprint for Ghana's Entrepreneurial Development & Industrial Transformation," citing Ghana Statistical Service data showing national unemployment at 13.0% in 2023 and youth joblessness at 21.9%, while highlighting underemployment and low-wage work as critical issues.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. GRA proposes expanding Modified Taxation Scheme to small companies

    The Ghana Revenue Authority is proposing to extend the Modified Taxation Scheme to qualifying small limited liability companies with annual turnover of up to GH¢750,000, allowing eligible businesses to benefit from a simplified tax regime rather than standard corporate compliance requirements. The Commissioner-General announced the policy shift at an MTS stakeholder workshop in Accra, aimed at making the tax system more responsive to small businesses.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. TCL sues Samsung for falsely advertising Mini LED televisions

    Chinese electronics firm TCL has sued Samsung in Los Angeles federal court, alleging that Samsung falsely marketed its M Model televisions as featuring "Mini LED" technology. TCL claims Samsung took a non-Mini LED model and sold it as a "supreme" Mini LED model, misleading consumers and damaging TCL's sales.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. COPEC urges government to extend fuel price subsidies

    The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers is calling for a GH¢1 per litre relief on petrol and continuation of a GH¢2 per litre diesel subsidy as fuel prices are projected to rise to GH¢16.26 for petrol and GH¢19.07 for diesel from September 16, attributed to increases in global crude oil and refined petroleum product prices.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. Petrol, diesel prices rise sharply from Wednesday, COPEC says

    Petrol is projected to sell at GH¢16.26 per litre and diesel at GH¢19.07 per litre from Wednesday, September 16, representing increases of 4.24% and 10.23% respectively, driven by a rise in international crude oil and refined petroleum product prices, according to the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair concludes with strong visitor turnout

    The second JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair at Marina Mall in Accra concluded its three-day run on Sunday with massive crowds of prospective homeowners exploring mortgage options and seeking expert advice on property acquisition, construction, and homeownership. The fair brought together financial institutions, property developers, construction companies, and housing professionals across Ghana's property sector.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Ghana piloted 21st Century Gold Standard under Bawumia

    Tano North MP Gideon Boako says Ghana's Domestic Gold Purchase Programme and Gold-for-Oil initiative, led by former Vice President Bawumia, demonstrated gold could serve as a modern monetary and reserve-management tool. The model increased Ghana's gold reserves from about eight tonnes to more than 31 tonnes and gross international reserves to exceeding $9 billion by end of 2024.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Ghana should use gold reserves to reduce dollar dependence

    Tano North MP Gideon Boako says Ghana should strategically convert part of its domestically produced gold into a strategic reserve asset to reduce overdependence on the US dollar, strengthen economic sovereignty, protect against external shocks, and support cedi stability.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  12. PMI refreshes PMP certification to address evolving workplace demands

    The Project Management Institute introduced a refreshed Project Management Professional (PMP) certification exam in July 2026 to reflect how project professionals work and the changing skills organizations expect. The new exam places greater emphasis on business alignment, strategic decision-making, stakeholder engagement, leadership, sustainability, and delivery in AI-enabled environments.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  13. Republic Bank Habitat Fair concludes with strong attendance in Accra

    The second JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair ended on a high note at Marina Mall in Accra after three days, bringing together financial institutions, property developers, construction companies and exhibitors to help prospective homeowners access mortgage financing, property acquisition, construction and other housing-related services.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  14. Large crowds attend final day of housing and property fair

    Prospective homeowners, investors, and builders gathered at Marina Mall in Accra for the concluding day of the second JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair, a three-day event bringing together financial institutions, developers, and construction companies to address housing and property needs.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Mining & Energy

  1. Energy sector inefficiencies deepening Ghana's fiscal inequality

    ACEP's Ben Boakye warns that Ghana's energy sector inefficiencies are draining public finances and worsening inequality. He notes ECG records losses of more than GH¢20 billion annually, with government increasingly relying on borrowing to finance power obligations.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. ECG losses worsen despite over $700 million government investment

    ACEP Executive Director Ben Boakye says the Electricity Company of Ghana's losses have risen from about 21 per cent to nearly 30 per cent despite more than $700 million invested in projects, with ECG making losses exceeding GH¢20 billion annually that drain the national budget.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Ship attacked in Strait of Hormuz amid pipeline closure fears

    Maritime trackers reported a projectile hit a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, with the crew evacuated after a fire broke out. The incident follows Saudi Arabia's temporary closure of its East-West pipeline after a drone attack, raising concerns about global oil supply disruptions as Brent crude surges above $100 a barrel.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Ghana and China agree to strengthen fight against illegal mining

    Ghana and China have agreed to strengthen cooperation in the fight against illegal mining, geological exploration, and responsible investment, with discussions on how to ensure Chinese nationals and companies meet standards in Ghana's mining sector. The cooperation will also cover green mining, environmental protection, technology transfer, geological surveys and mapping.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Agriculture & Land

  1. Ghana's horticulture sector can create jobs and export opportunities

    Vice President Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang called for greater investment in Ghana's horticulture sector, saying it can create jobs, build sustainable businesses, and open export opportunities. She emphasized that developing the sector requires attention to the entire value chain, including reliable transport, storage, quality standards, finance, and market access.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Ghana develops cut-flower corridor to boost horticulture exports

    Ghana is positioning its horticulture sector for export growth through a cut-flower corridor aimed at connecting local producers to European, West African, and Gulf markets. The Presidential Advisor on the 24-hour Economy said building a full industry requires connecting production to aggregation, processing, logistics, markets, and supporting services, citing Ghana's $75 million mango exports to 42 markets in 2024 as evidence of competitive potential.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Society

  1. Free SHS expansion lacked matching infrastructure, education minister says

    Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu says the previous NPP administration's Free Senior High School policy expanded access to secondary education but failed to provide adequate infrastructure to accommodate the resulting increase in student numbers, creating pressure on senior high schools and contributing to the current SHS placement crisis.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Education Minister calls for shift in spending toward basic literacy

    Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has criticized excessive public spending on secondary education and called for Ghana to redirect greater resources toward foundational learning at the basic education level, arguing that strong literacy skills acquired early significantly improve students' prospects of later academic success.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Laboma Beach Resort demolition forces business owners out

    Authorities are demolishing structures at Laboma Beach Resort following a 21-day ultimatum from the Greater Accra Regional Security Council to clear the Kpeshie Lagoon's protected buffer zone. The exercise, intended to reclaim the lagoon and address flooding concerns, has left business owners and residents scrambling to salvage belongings, though some have protested the loss of livelihoods and employment.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Military engineers demolish Laboma Beach resort after flooding deadline

    The 48 Engineer Regiment is conducting a demolition exercise at Laboma Beach Resort following a 21-day deadline from the Greater Accra Regional Minister, as part of the government's Post-Flood Mitigating Task Force to clear structures obstructing waterways and reduce flooding in Accra after June floods.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. Laboma director urges halt to beach demolition over job losses

    The Director of Laboma, Daniel M. K. Okpoti, has appealed to the government to stop the ongoing demolition at Laboma Beach, citing concerns over the impact on businesses and workers. He claims the demolition threatens over 3,000 jobs and the livelihoods of people who have invested in businesses at the location.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. Minority questions lack of prosecutions in US$350m cocaine case

    Ghana's Parliamentary Minority is demanding action on the alleged financiers and principal traffickers behind a US$350 million cocaine shipment seized at Pedu Junction in Cape Coast over a year ago. The Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee noted that only the driver, a housemaid, and peripheral suspects have been arraigned, while the main figures remain unidentified and unpunished.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. Digital skills training graduates ready as Ghana's tech builders

    Communication Minister Samuel Nartey George said digital skills development is critical to Ghana's transformation agenda, highlighting that the country needs young innovators who build technology solutions rather than consume them. Twenty-six graduates—14 females and 12 males—completed a 12-week intensive training programme and capstone project organised by Plan International Ghana with Nokia support, each developing working projects to address real community problems.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. GNFS responds to fuel tanker and house fire in Eastern Region

    The Ghana National Fire Service responded to a fuel tanker carrying approximately 54,000 litres of petrol stranded on the Osubetor Bridge due to suspected mechanical failure, with no fuel leakage or fire threat detected, and a separate domestic fire at Larteh Akuapem where residents extinguished the blaze before firefighters arrived, destroying clothes and a blanket but causing no casualties.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Demolition begins at Laboma Beach after 21-day eviction ultimatum

    Authorities have begun demolishing structures at Laboma Beach in the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality following a 21-day eviction ultimatum issued by the Greater Accra Regional Security Council on August 7, targeting buildings occupying the protected buffer zone of the Kpeshie Lagoon. The exercise is part of efforts to address siltation and unauthorised developments contributing to flooding in Greater Accra.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Teachers demand government settle 2012–2015 unpaid arrears

    The Association of Aggrieved Teachers of Legacy Arrears is demanding payment of outstanding arrears owed for the period between 2012 and 2015, citing years of financial hardship and an unfulfilled NPP campaign promise. The group is appealing to President Mahama's administration to prioritize resolution of the matter.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Skipping breakfast: health effects and personal choice

    The article examines whether breakfast is truly essential for health, noting that the "most important meal" concept originated partly from 1950s marketing rather than science. Specialist dietitians suggest having a morning meal is beneficial, though the timing is a personal preference, and some use breakfast-skipping as a weight-loss method through intermittent fasting.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  12. Security guard remanded over murder of elderly couple at Asylum Down

    A 32-year-old security guard has been remanded into custody over the murder of Dr Jesse Amuah, 80, and his wife Elizabeth Esi Amuah, 64, at their Asylum Down residence in Accra on 23 March 2026, following a payment dispute over GH¢1,500. He allegedly concealed their bodies in a septic tank and fled to Dubai but was arrested and deported back to Ghana in August 2026 to face trial.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  13. Ex-convict and student jailed for theft and abetment

    A Tarkwa Circuit Court has sentenced a 21-year-old ex-convict, Kingsford Quarshie, to eight years' imprisonment in hard labour for causing unlawful damage, unlawful entry and stealing. His accomplice, 20-year-old Joshua Hammond, a student of Takoradi Technical University, received 12 months imprisonment for abetment.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  14. NaCCA trains basic school teachers on new Chinese curriculum

    The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment held a national training workshop to equip basic school teachers with knowledge and skills to implement a new Chinese language curriculum effectively, in partnership with the Confucius Institute at the University of Cape Coast.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  15. Two Indian-born women discover they are biological sisters

    Two women adopted from Mumbai orphanages as babies and raised in the Netherlands met as teenagers, became lifelong friends, and have now discovered through DNA testing that they are biological sisters.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  16. Driver convicted for concrete spill on Madina-Adenta Highway

    A Madina driver was convicted after his concrete mixer truck discharged concrete onto the Madina-Adenta Highway near Zongo Junction on September 5, creating a hazard and obstructing traffic. He was charged with placing construction materials on the road, causing danger to road users, and obstructing an intersection.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Culture

  1. Céline Dion opens Paris comeback residency after six-year health hiatus

    Céline Dion performed her first full show in over four years on Saturday in Paris, launching a 26-show residency at La Défense Arena following a six-year hiatus due to stiff person syndrome diagnosis. The emotional return marked her first full performance since 2020, though she appeared for one song at the 2024 Paris Olympics closing ceremony.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Ghana's Gen Z embrace second-hand fashion for sustainability

    Young Ghanaians at the November 15 Tidal Rave Festival in Accra wore second-hand clothing, customised denim, and thrift fashion as a visible expression of environmental consciousness, with attendees citing awareness of fast fashion's environmental damage as a key motivation for their style choices.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Ghanaian weaver Alice Banaaza showcases fugu weaving tradition

    Ghanaian weaver Alice Banaaza showcased traditional fugu weaving at the 2026 Chocolate Has a Name Festival in Halifax, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, with live demonstrations from 27th August through 6th September 2026, presenting the techniques and knowledge of this northern Ghanaian textile tradition.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Ghanaian poet Emma Ofosua performs in three UK cities

    Ghanaian poet Emma Ofosua, founder of Tuniq Africa and the All African Women Poetry Festival, will present and headline at literary events in Nottingham, London, and West Yorkshire in September, showcasing West African spoken word on international stages.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. AI will boost demand for hand-made art, pencil artist says

    Female pencil artist Aewura Arts argues that artificial intelligence will increase the value of traditional hand-created artwork rather than displace artists, as people will prize authentic pieces and the human effort behind them. She views AI as a complementary tool for the creative industry rather than a replacement.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. Ghanaian pencil artist recalls payment and supply challenges

    Aewura Adjoa, a female pencil artist, recounted that early in her career she faced difficulties with clients who did not pay for or return for completed artworks, as she did not initially require deposits. She also cited challenges in sourcing quality art supplies locally, forcing her to turn to international platforms.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. Artist calls for greater government support of visual arts sector

    Ghanaian pencil artist Aewura Adjoa has called on the government to increase support for the arts industry, saying government efforts do not compare to those given to film and football, and that lack of support influences parents to discourage children from pursuing creative careers.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. Ghanaian artist advises peers to pursue side ventures

    Pencil artist Aewura Adjoa has encouraged fellow artists to develop additional income streams alongside creative work, saying that while art can be lucrative, depending solely on artwork is not enough. She emphasizes the need for hard work and entrepreneurship, and shares her own experience of balancing art with other ventures including beads work and RNH Imports, an import business she runs with her husband.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Ghanaian pencil artist overcame parental resistance to pursue visual arts

    Ghanaian pencil artist Aewura Adjoa says her parents opposed her decision to pursue art as a career, questioning how she would make a living from it, but she chose Visual Arts at Mfantsiman Girls' Senior High School despite their concerns. Her childhood passion for drawing eventually led her to focus on picture-making and participate in school artistic projects.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Ghanaian artist's IShowSpeed portrait praised by streamer's manager

    Ghanaian artist Aewura Arts drew a detailed pencil portrait of American streamer IShowSpeed during his "Speed Does Africa" tour in January 2026, and IShowSpeed's manager described it as one of the best artworks received during the tour.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Ghanaian weaver Alice Bazaanaa showcases fugu at UK festival

    Ghanaian weaver Alice Bazaanaa presented live demonstrations of traditional fugu weaving at the 2026 Chocolate Has a Name Festival in Halifax, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, from 27th August through 6th September 2026, sharing the techniques and knowledge of this northern Ghanaian textile tradition with international audiences.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Sport

  1. Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy retires from international football

    Édouard Mendy, 34, has announced his retirement from international football after eight years and 59 appearances for Senegal. The Al Ahli goalkeeper was key to Senegal's 2021 Africa Cup of Nations victory and represented the country at two FIFA World Cups.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Lamine Yamal scores twice as Barcelona beat Levante

    Barcelona defeated Levante 4–2 to maintain their perfect La Liga start and move three points clear at the top. Yamal scored twice, including a penalty, as Barcelona survived a late comeback attempt.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Haaland's controversial goal wins derby for 10-man City

    Erling Haaland scored the winning goal in Manchester City's 1-0 victory over Manchester United despite City playing with 10 men for over 70 minutes after Phil Foden was sent off. The goal was contentious after a lengthy VAR check determined Haaland was onside while Enzo Fernandez, who was offside, was not deemed to be affecting play.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. Nations FC eliminated from CAF Confederation Cup

    MTN FA Cup winners Nations FC have been eliminated from the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup after drawing 1-1 with Malian side FC Diarra in the second leg of their preliminary-round tie at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, losing 2-1 on aggregate.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. Kenyans win 2026 KGL Millennium Marathon in Accra

    Alex Korio and Lucy Ndambuki, both from Kenya, won the men's and women's 21km elite races respectively at the 2026 KGL Foundation Millennium Marathon held at Independence Square in Accra. The event emphasised mental health awareness through the Foundation's Mental Health Index initiative and Corporate Wellness Forum.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. Zverev wins second major with US Open final victory

    Alexander Zverev defeated Ben Shelton 6-3 7-6 (7-2) 5-7 6-2 in the US Open final to claim his second Grand Slam singles title after winning the French Open earlier this year. The victory came against the American home favorite Shelton, who was seeking to become the first American man to win a major singles title since Andy Roddick in 2003.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. Zverev wins US Open six years after tearful loss

    Alexander Zverev defeated Ben Shelton 6-3 7-6 (7-2) 5-7 6-2 to win the US Open title, redeeming his devastating loss to Dominic Thiem in 2020 when he had served for the match. The German is now a two-time Grand Slam champion after winning the French Open in June.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. Rybakina wins US Open, becomes new world number one

    Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan defeated two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka 6-4 5-7 6-2 to win her first US Open title and claim the world number one ranking. This is Rybakina's third Grand Slam title, following victories at Wimbledon in 2022 and the Australian Open earlier this year.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Berekum Chelsea beats Dreams FC 3-1 in GPL comeback win

    Berekum Chelsea recorded their first win of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season with a 3-1 victory over Dreams FC at Golden City Park on Sunday, with goals from Abubakari Seidu, Jonah Attuquaye, and Marvin Owusu.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Kotoko beat Heart of Lions, end decade-long winless streak

    Asante Kotoko defeated Heart of Lions 2-1 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to secure their first win of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season and end a run of more than 10 years without a victory over the Kpando-based side.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Hearts of Oak beat GoldStars 2-1 in GPL comeback

    Hearts of Oak came from a goal down to defeat Bibiani GoldStars 2-1 in their second Ghana Premier League game of the 2026/27 season, moving to the top of the table with back-to-back wins. Kwame Poku put GoldStars ahead in the 11th minute before Yaw Amankwa Baafi and Henry Kwaku Boateng scored for Hearts in the second half.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Tourism & Environment

  1. Kpeshie Lagoon reclamation linked to Tse Addo flooding

    A risk assessment by the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council has linked reclamation and development of portions of Kpeshie Lagoon to first-time flooding in Tse Addo, finding that converting sections of the natural water retention basin into developed land reduced the lagoon's capacity to receive and retain excess water during heavy rainfall.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. Deputy Chief of Staff directs ecological restoration of Kpeshie Lagoon

    Deputy Chief of Staff Stan Xoese Dogbe has directed the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council to restore reclaimed sections of the Kpeshie Lagoon following removal of illegal structures, working with the Forestry Commission and EPA to plant trees and recover the ecosystem's flood-retention capacity.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

World & Region

  1. Moroccan teen selected for 2026 International Festival of Youth

    A 16-year-old Moroccan, Hssaine Akram, is among 1,000 teenagers selected from 99 countries for the Children's Programme at the 2026 International Festival of Youth in Ekaterinburg, Russia, chosen from nearly 16,500 applicants worldwide.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  2. ISS cooperation shows nations how to resolve conflicts peacefully

    Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko said astronauts of different nationalities aboard the International Space Station depend on one another and resolve disagreements through dialogue and mutual understanding, suggesting this model of cooperation could help countries resolve their differences on Earth.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  3. Young Africans among 10,000 delegates at Russia youth festival

    About 10,000 young people from 191 countries, including representatives from 19 African nations, gathered in Ekaterinburg, Russia for the week-long 2026 International Festival of Youth (September 11–17), which provides a platform for young leaders to participate in activities covering media, entrepreneurship, science, education, technology, public administration, culture, sport and civic engagement.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  4. 100 young journalists cover International Festival of Youth in Russia

    A team of 100 young journalists from countries including Russia, India, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan are covering the 2026 International Festival of Youth in Ekaterinburg, producing news reports, live broadcasts, podcasts and interviews through practical media laboratories established by the Movement of the First.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  5. US Rep. Tiffany sustains minor injuries in Wisconsin plane water landing

    Representative Tom Tiffany, the Republican nominee for Wisconsin governor, said he and his pilot swam to safety after their plane lost power and made an emergency water landing on Lake Wausau in central Wisconsin, with both sustaining only minor injuries.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  6. Ebola cases in DRC exceed 7,000, spread to seventh province

    Confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo have reached 7,022, and the outbreak has spread to a seventh province, South Ubangi in the country's northwest, according to government data.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  7. African delegates clean Russian lake, collect 22 cubic metres waste

    African participants from Cameroon, Congo and 23 other countries collected 22 cubic metres of waste from Lake Shartash in Ekaterinburg, Russia during a September 12, 2026 clean-up as part of the 2026 International Festival of Youth's "Waters of Russia" initiative.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  8. International Festival of Youth plants friendship garden in Russia

    Participants in the 2026 International Festival of Youth planted 25 blue spruce trees at Ural Federal University in Ekaterinburg on September 12, 2026, as part of the festival's environmental initiative and a symbol of international unity and climate solidarity.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  9. Over 40,000 apply for AI and anti-fake contests at IFY 2026

    More than 40,000 people applied to participate in two digital media competitions at the 2026 International Festival of Youth in Ekaterinburg, Russia: the First Neurocontent Cup, where teams created AI-generated videos, and the Anti-Fake Championship, where participants identified fabricated or manipulated digital material. About 200 finalists, including young Africans, competed at the festival's opening day.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  10. Trump visits Ireland, says united Ireland would be fantastic

    Donald Trump is on a two-day visit to the Republic of Ireland, where he met President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin; he told reporters he would love to see a united Ireland and that it would be a "fantastic thing," though acknowledged the UK would have something to say about it.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  11. Teen rescued after days adrift in Bering Sea

    A 15-year-old boy was rescued after spending days on an overturned 18-foot fishing vessel in Alaska's Bering Sea. He lost his older brother and cousin in the incident and showed signs of hypothermia when found by a Coast Guard aircrew on Monday morning.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  12. Afghan woman deported in first use of secretive terrorist court

    Nazira Haji Zada, an Afghan woman with US permanent residency living in Texas, was deported after choosing to leave rather than continue proceedings before the Alien Terrorist Removal Court—a secretive court created in 1996 but never used before July. Though she was never charged with a crime, prosecutors accused her of being the "matriarch" of a group and working to radicalize her family; her son and son-in-law were convicted of plotting a mass shooting inspired by the Islamic State.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  13. Indonesian ferry with 243 people goes missing in Java Sea

    Six people have died and 97 have been rescued from the Virgo Transport 8 passenger ferry, which went missing in the Java Sea after encountering bad weather while travelling from Surabaya to Banjarmasin. Indonesia's search and rescue agency has launched an ongoing operation to find the remaining passengers.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  14. Russians seek answers over hundreds missing after Ukraine's incursion

    Ukrainian forces breached Russia's Kursk region in August 2024, overrunning more than 777 sq km of territory and leaving more than 300 Russians missing according to the local governor, with some 2,000 people estimated to have remained in settlements captured by Ukraine's military.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  15. 2026 International Festival of Youth plants trees in Ekaterinburg

    Participants in the 2026 International Festival of Youth planted 50 trees near Ural Federal University in Ekaterinburg, Russia, in an initiative called the "Alley of the Cultural Code" designed as a lasting legacy of the event. The planting brought together young festival participants, government officials, and representatives of major companies and organisations, with Russian officials describing the trees as a multi-generational memorial to the young people who attended the festival.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  16. Uganda's King Oyo buried; succession dispute erupts

    Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who became Tooro's king at age three and once held the record for world's youngest reigning monarch, was buried on Saturday following his death from cancer. A succession row has emerged between clan elders who named his cousin Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the next monarch and Oyo's family, who say his 2022 will names his young son as heir.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  17. Sports writer fired after critical posts about deceased activist Kirk

    In September 2025, a professional basketball writer lost his job after posting critical comments about conservative activist Charlie Kirk hours after Kirk was fatally shot on a university campus in Utah. The writer described Kirk as an "evil man" and criticized his supporters; his posts went viral, leading to his firing, doxxing, and threatening messages, prompting him to flee the state with his family.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  18. US embassy staffer flown from UK without police interview

    A US embassy worker accused of possessing indecent images of children was detained at his south London flat and flown to the United States in August without first being questioned by British police. The US Embassy said it informed UK law enforcement and took swift action; investigations are ongoing in conjunction with UK authorities.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  19. Russia's youth festival offers pathways for Ghanaian partnerships

    Over 20 Ghanaian youth are participating in the 2026 International Festival of Youth in Ekaterinburg, Russia, where the CEO of the Ghana Russia Centre for Commerce and Relations says the event could unlock business partnerships, scholarships and joint ventures in entrepreneurship, technology, media, education and culture.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  20. BRICS summit in Delhi gathers leaders amid tensions

    Indian Prime Minister Modi hosted a BRICS summit in Delhi where leaders including Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Iran's president gathered to discuss becoming "rule-shapers" rather than "rule-takers" in global affairs. The meeting provided a platform to reassess relationships amid the Iran-Middle East conflict, though reaching agreement on a new global order proved difficult.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  21. Turkish police detain dozens in raids on LGBTQ+ venues and activists

    Police in Turkey have detained 47 people in raids on gay bars and the homes of LGBTQ+ activists across 12 provinces over the weekend, as part of a campaign called "My Family is Safe." Human rights groups accuse the government of using the operation to target the LGBTQ+ community, while authorities say they seized drugs, smuggled alcohol, and a firearm, and are investigating LGBTQ+ association Kaos GL for allegedly posting obscene content accessible to children.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  22. Trump reiterates support for unified Ireland during golf visit

    During his second day in Ireland at Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, President Trump told reporters he believes it would be "natural" to unite Ireland and Northern Ireland, describing the comment as routine. The Irish Taoiseach said the remarks did not surprise him.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

  23. Russia strikes Ukrainian train after Johnson and officials depart

    A Russian drone hit a train near the Ukraine-Poland border at Yahodyn station shortly after former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and top European security officials had passed through on a different train. Ukraine's state railway company said the diplomatic train had left earlier than scheduled due to threats of Russian strikes, and passengers on the struck train were evacuated 15 minutes before impact with no casualties reported.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

Opinion

  1. AI researcher warns of existential risks, Silicon Valley skeptical

    Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon resigned Tuesday, saying AI developers are "gambling with our lives" by building potentially superhuman systems. While other AI insiders have echoed safety concerns, some Silicon Valley executives and investors have reacted with skepticism, with Anthropic and OpenAI reportedly preparing major IPOs.

    13 September 2026 · Joy Online →

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