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Fire Destroys Kadjebi-Asato SHS Dorm, Students Collapse During Blaze

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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A fire destroyed a boys’ dormitory at Kadjebi-Asato Senior High School. The blaze started Tuesday morning in the Oti Region. It burned a dormitory room completely. The roof structure and all belongings inside are now lost.

Several students collapsed during the incident. They passed out from exhaustion and panic. The students tried to save their possessions. They also helped control the spreading fire. School officials and locals provided aid. All affected students have now received care.

The Ghana National Fire Service faced major challenges. Their fire tender in the Kadjebi district is not working. Responding personnel had no operational truck. They used limited methods to fight the flames. This constraint hampered their firefighting efforts significantly.

The cause of the morning fire remains unknown. The event highlights critical infrastructure problems. Reliable emergency equipment is essential for safety. The community hopes for swift investigations and upgrades. Such incidents risk student health and property.

Ghana Not Affected by New US Green Card Review – Ablakwa Confirms

By
Ivy Hollys
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Ghana is not included in the United States government’s latest Green Card review and temporary immigration suspension, according to a clarification issued by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The Minister revealed that he received a detailed briefing from the Acting US Ambassador to Ghana, Rolf Olson, who provided full clarity on Ghana’s status regarding the newly announced US immigration measures.

Mr Ablakwa, speaking after his meeting with Ambassador Olson on Monday, December 1, 2025, noted that their discussion covered recent developments in Ghana–US relations, including assurances that Ghana is not part of the countries affected by President Donald Trump’s revised immigration directives. He explained that this confirmation should calm public concerns, especially given the widespread misinformation circulating on social media about Ghana’s supposed involvement in the suspension.

The meeting also addressed the restoration of five-year visas for Ghanaian travellers—an issue that had raised significant public interest—and the removal of the 15 percent tariffs that were previously applied to cocoa, semi-processed cocoa, and other eligible agricultural exports. Mr Ablakwa emphasized that these developments reflect Ghana’s continued efforts to secure trade conditions that favor the country’s long-term economic stability.

He further highlighted cooperative engagements under the Defence Cooperation Agreement, noting that the arrangement will involve enhanced intelligence sharing and training activities conducted with US military aviation resources, all of which will be closely coordinated with Ghanaian authorities. Although public information from US sources indicates no formal list of exempted countries, Ghana does not appear among those affected, reinforcing the Minister’s assurances.

Mr Ablakwa stressed that Ghana’s national interest remains the guiding principle behind all diplomatic engagements with the United States.

Court Directs Nana Agradaa to File Plea Bargain Terms Ahead of Key Hearing

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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A High Court in Accra has issued a key instruction in the case against celebrity evangelist Nana Agradaa. The court ordered her lawyers to formally submit a proposed plea bargain agreement. This must be filed at least three days before their next hearing on December 16, 2025. The directive includes her co-accused in the ongoing legal matter.

During Tuesday’s court session, state prosecutors mentioned a potential bench warrant. This was for the second accused person who was absent. Defense counsel argued they never received a proper hearing notice. The judge then instructed the court registry to ensure correct service before the next date.

Nana Agradaa’s lawyer stated negotiations with the Attorney-General are advanced. They requested a short adjournment to finalize the plea deal. Prosecutors confirmed the complainant, Pastor Osofo Biblical, is involved in talks. He was also present in the courtroom for the proceedings.

The case involves serious allegations against Nana Agradaa. She is accused of sharing private images of the pastor without his consent. This happened on her TV station and social media during a live broadcast. Panelists on the show allegedly mocked the complainant. These actions potentially violate Ghana’s Cybersecurity Act.

Nana Agradaa is currently serving a separate 15-year sentence for fraud. She attended this week’s court hearing from custody. Her lawyers also raised concerns about recent media interviews. They said the complainant discussed her prison condition publicly. The trial judge advised prosecutors to caution him against public comments. The court stressed the need for a fair process without outside influence.

The case will resume on December 16 after the plea bargain terms are filed.

Stricter Supervision Cuts Cheating in 2025 WASSCE, Says Education Watchdog

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Wassce


The head of Africa Education Watch credits stricter oversight for reducing exam cheating. Kofi Asare says the 2025 WASSCE saw a marked drop in malpractice. He believes tighter monitoring by WAEC made the difference. This vigilance stopped students from getting unfairly high grades.

The official results support this observation. WAEC cancelled results for 6,295 candidates. They were caught with unauthorized materials in exam halls. Investigations into another 1,066 cases are still ongoing. Authorities also withheld 908 subject results and 158 full results.

Core Mathematics performance declined sharply this year. Pass rates in the A1 to C6 range fell significantly. The number dropped from over 305,000 in 2024 to about 209,000. This is a reduction of more than 96,000 passes. Only 48.73 percent of candidates achieved a passing grade.

Kofi Asare explained the situation on national television. He stated the enhanced supervision was very visible. Students could not obtain grades they did not genuinely earn. His organization, Eduwatch, actively monitored the exams. They deployed trained observers to 150 schools nationwide.

Many of these monitors were experienced teachers. Their report found that 61% of respondents rated invigilation positively. They described it as good, very good, or excellent. New policy threats also helped deter cheating. The Education Minister warned of harsh penalties for implicated teachers.

Teachers could face dismissal instead of just suspension. This stricter signal reinforced WAEC’s operational vigilance. Together, these measures strengthened exam credibility. The focus now shifts to sustaining this integrity in future exams. The goal is maintaining fair and trusted results for all students.

Asenso-Boakye Defends Letter on Accra-Kumasi Expressway, Cites Value for Money

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Former Roads Minister Francis Asenso-Boakye has clarified his position on a major highway project. He insists his concerns were always about responsible spending. He was not opposing the planned Accra-Kumasi Expressway. His statement responds to recent accusations from Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

The Finance Minister claimed Asenso-Boakye advised canceling the expressway. He allegedly called the project unnecessary and wasteful. Asenso-Boakye strongly dismissed this claim in a media address. He called the minister’s interpretation both inaccurate and unfair.

The Bantama MP explained his letter to former President Mahama. He wrote it to advocate for prudent financial management. His note highlighted key technical and practical concerns. He stressed the need to finish current projects first.

He specifically referred to the ongoing Accra-Kumasi dualisation project. This upgrade has reached sixty-four percent completion. Abandoning it now would waste a massive prior investment. Ghana’s limited budget makes this duplication unwise.

Asenso-Boakye noted the corridor’s long development history. Work began under former President Kufuor’s administration. Major sections were built during that time. Progress stalled under subsequent governments before revival.

President Akufo-Addo’s government later resumed the dualisation work. The former minister urged continuing this existing plan. His primary goal was protecting national resources. He wanted to ensure real value for public money.

He argued for completing the upgraded highway before starting a new expressway. This approach avoids inefficient spending. It also delivers finished roads to citizens faster. His position focuses on strategic infrastructure planning.

The debate highlights tensions over Ghana’s development priorities. Limited funds force difficult choices between projects. Asenso-Boakye’s clarification seeks to correct the record. He reaffirms his commitment to fiscal responsibility.

Eastern Regional Minister Denies Ordering Arrest of Kwahu Queen Mother

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey has firmly denied authorizing the arrest of Kwahu Queen mother Nana Adwoa Gyemtua III. She labeled recent media reports on the matter as completely false and misleading. Her statement follows a radio broadcast from Agoo 96.9 FM that featured a video interview. In that clip, a chief named Nana Nilm Sarpong claimed the Minister confirmed sanctioning the arrest.

The Minister issued her detailed rebuttal on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. She described the allegation as a severe misrepresentation of the actual facts. According to her, a delegation of Kwahu chiefs visited her office on December 1. Their purpose was to brief her on developments following the Queen Mother’s arrest. The visit also followed a formal referral from the Inspector General of Police, C.O.P. Christian Tetteh Yahuna.

During that meeting, the chiefs informed her that the IGP had already apologized for the incident. He acknowledged the arrest was executed by police personnel under his command. The IGP also stated he had ordered a full investigation into the officers’ conduct. Minister Awatey clarified that she also offered an apology to the visiting chiefs. However, she stressed this was not an admission of ordering the arrest.

She explained her apology was given in her capacity as Regional Minister and head of the Regional Security Council. She stated she never told the chiefs she ordered the arrest of the Obahemaa. Taking responsibility, she said, was about leadership rather than direct involvement. Her position mirrors the IGP’s own acceptance of responsibility for his personnel’s actions.

The Minister expressed deep concern over this distortion of the events. She emphasized that the Regional Security Council remains neutral and focused on regional peace. The council is not associated with any of the parties involved in the underlying dispute. She urged the public to disregard the damaging and inaccurate media report. Finally, she reaffirmed her commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders. Her goal is to peacefully resolve the dispute and ensure continued stability across the Eastern Region.

Ghana FA Veteran: On Rejected Past Black Stars Call-ups

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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A former Ghana Football Association Chairman has strong advice for the national team. Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe says the Black Stars should not invite certain players. He specifically means players who previously rejected call-ups to play for Ghana.

This statement follows Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Recent reports indicate some European-born stars now want to join the squad. Notable names include Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah. Dr. Tamakloe believes the technical team must make a principled stand.

He spoke to Graphic Sports on December 1, 2025. He is also a board member of Accra Hearts of Oak. His message to coach Otto Addo and his staff was very clear. The team should prioritize players receiving their first-ever invitation. Those who said no in the past should not get a second chance.

“Those who initially turned down invitations should not be invited at all,” he stated firmly. “But those who have never been invited must be allowed to come and play.” He emphasizes loyalty and commitment to the national shirt from the start.

The Black Stars will learn their World Cup group opponents soon. The draw is set for November 5. Ghana aims for a stronger performance in the 2026 tournament. They exited at the group stage in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The next edition will be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The team’s management now faces a significant selection dilemma. They must balance talent with the proven commitment of their players. This debate will likely continue as the World Cup approaches next summer.

Otumfuo Concludes Bawku Efforts, Presses for Lasting Calm

By
Ivy Hollys
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The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has formally concluded his extensive mediation efforts aimed at resolving the long-standing Bawku chieftaincy conflict, calling on both Mamprusi and Kusasi leaders to begin preparing their supporters for a permanent end to hostilities. He emphasised that the disputing groups are “one people” who must embrace peaceful coexistence.

This decisive appeal was delivered on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace during a landmark joint meeting between delegations from both factions. The engagement, held in the Jubilee Hall, represented the first time in months that the two groups had met face-to-face under the Asantehene’s facilitation.

In a statement issued by his Chief of Staff, Kofi Badu, the Asantehene expressed appreciation for the maturity demonstrated throughout the process, stressing that lasting peace is not only necessary but inevitable. Chief Tarana John Wuni Grunah led a 30-member delegation on behalf of the Naayiri, Overlord of Mamprugu, while Naba Tambis Baalug of Pusiga headed the delegation representing the Bawku Naaba and the Kusasi community. Former MP Cletus Avoka and Dr. Issah served as spokespersons for the Kusasi and Mamprusi sides, respectively.

Monday’s session followed several months of separate hearings during which the King listened to detailed submissions from both sides in an effort to address a conflict that has for years resulted in deaths, displacement, and persistent insecurity in the Bawku Traditional Area.

According to the palace, the meeting was cordial, with both delegations acknowledging their shared lineage and the needless destruction caused by the prolonged dispute.

The Asantehene will now compile his recommendations into a formal report to be presented to President John Dramani Mahama. The palace noted that the King hopes the President will act promptly by convening all parties to officially announce the outcome of the mediation.

Ghana Airports Ready for Holiday Surge as Diaspora Travel Rises

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Ghana Airports Company promises smooth holiday travel, this comes as more diaspora members return home. Managing Director Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare announced the news. She said the company is fully ready for the festive season arrivals.

December is now a peak travel period for Ghana’s airports, the popular “December in GH” events drive this increase. International visitors flock to the country for these activities. The airport company has prepared carefully for the surge.

They are working with airlines and security agencies. Tourism partners are also coordinating with the company, this teamwork will ensure smooth arrivals and departures. The goal is a hassle-free travel experience for everyone.

The company deployed extra staff to main terminals. This will improve passenger flow and shorten waiting times. They also upgraded sanitation and safety measures. Customer service desks received enhancements, too.

These improvements will help all travelers. Both first-time visitors and returning citizens will benefit. The Managing Director reaffirmed their commitment to service. They want everyone to travel with security and comfort.

She specifically welcomed all diasporans this season. The company also addressed known parking issues. They noted some congestion at their car parks. New arrangements will provide an overflow parking area.

This will prevent long queues for people picking up loved ones. The company stressed its commitment to world-class service. Ghana is growing as a top holiday tourism destination. It also hosts major cultural events year-round.

The airports aim to support this national growth. Their preparations will create a comfortable passenger experience. This effort ensures a positive first impression of Ghana. A smooth airport visit starts every journey right.

First Thriving Cocoa Farm in Northern Ghana Sparks Excitement

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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cocoa

A cocoa farm is thriving in Northern Ghana, this news has excited the Nanung area. It challenges old beliefs people thought cocoa could not grow in the north. Farmer Mohammed Nchala made this possible, he experimented against the odds and his success in Salnaayili is now famous. A viral video brought it national attention.


The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) took notice and sent a team to see the farm. Cocoa usually grows in the south, with wet forested conditions but Nanung has very fertile soil. This soil resembles southern regions. The land near the Oti River supports the crops.
Nchala started with four acres of land. Bushfires later destroyed many trees. He also cared for his sick father. He reduced the farm to two-and-a-half acres. “I have no support,” Nchala said. “This is my biggest challenge.” He first planted seeds from the Volta Region. That was back in 2012. Now, cocoa grows beside plantain crops. Some trees are already producing fruit.


COCOBOD officials are very impressed. Deputy CEO Dr. Francis Baah called the farm remarkable. “No one expected this in the North,” he said. He announced great news for Nchala. CEO Dr. Randy Abbey will personally build him a house. Abbey will also give him a motorbike. This will support his work.
The board sees big potential here. Experts will study the land for expansion. They want larger-scale cultivation. Dr. Kofi Owusu Domfeh is a research director. He said the trees look very healthy. They show no signs of disease. His team will research the soil next. They want to ensure lasting success.


This project means more than just farming. It can create many new jobs. It will help the local economy grow. The community has promised its full support. The local Regent has even offered free land for cocoa.
Nchala has already received some help. He got fertilizer, money, and medical care. COCOBOD will also give him a special award. He will receive it on Farmers’ Day.
This farm is a major milestone for the north. It could transform the local economy. It also opens new opportunities for the youth. The future of Northern cocoa looks bright.


























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