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Sudan Envoy Urges Ghana’s Support for Peace Efforts

By
Ivy Hollys
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Peace

The Sudanese Ambassador to Ghana, Gariballa Khidir Ali, has appealed to Ghana to help restore peace and stability in Sudan as the conflict in his country continues.

He made the call during a courtesy visit to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. The ambassador praised Ghana for its strong democratic values and record of promoting peace across Africa.

According to him, Ghana has earned trust as a reliable ally in difficult times. “We are open to African-led initiatives and solutions, and we believe Ghana can play a key role,” he said. He added that with unity among African nations, Sudan could recover from its challenges and rebuild a stable society.

In response, Speaker Bagbin thanked the Sudanese delegation for their confidence in Ghana’s leadership. He reaffirmed Ghana’s solidarity with the people of Sudan and stressed the importance of regional peace.

“Sudan is a key partner in Africa’s growth, and instability there affects the whole continent,” he said. “Lasting peace will require a united African effort.”

Furthermore, he pledged Ghana’s continued support for Sudan through peacebuilding, technical cooperation, and parliamentary diplomacy. He said such efforts would help promote unity and lasting stability across the continent.

Asantehene Warns New Police Chief to Avoid Land and Chieftaincy Disputes

By
Ivy Hollys
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The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has cautioned the newly appointed Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Arthur Osei Akoto, to stay away from chieftaincy and land-related disputes in the region.

He said such matters are beyond the Police Service’s mandate and fall under his authority as the traditional ruler of Asanteman.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu advised that any chief who approaches the Police Commander with land issues should be referred to the Manhyia Palace for resolution. He also directed the commander to report any ongoing land dispute immediately to him for appropriate action.

The Asantehene urged DCOP Akoto to focus on improving security across the region by tackling theft, robbery, and other social vices. He said maintaining peace and order remains key to the region’s development.

Otumfuo gave the advice when the new Police Commander paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.

The outgoing Regional Police Commander, COP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, expressed gratitude to the Asantehene for his guidance and support during his tenure. He also introduced his successor, DCOP Arthur Osei Akoto, to the King.

The delegation accompanying the outgoing commander included CP Francis Kouame Somian, Deputy Regional Commander; Chief Superintendent Frederick Hammond, Manhyia Divisional Commander; and DSP Godwin Ahianyo, Ashanti Regional Police PRO.

Zohran Kwame Mamdani Makes History as New York City’s Youngest Mayor

By
Ivy Hollys
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new york
Zohran Mamdani, pictured by Yuki Iwamura

Zohran Kwame Mamdani has won New York City’s mayoral race, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in a landmark election that has reshaped the US political landscape. At 34, Mamdani becomes the youngest person in more than a century to lead America’s largest city and the first South Asian and Muslim mayor in New York’s history.

Running as a Democrat and self-described democratic socialist, Mamdani campaigned on affordability and social reform, promising expanded public housing, universal child care, and higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy. His victory over Cuomo, who ran as an independent, marks a dramatic generational and ideological shift within the Democratic Party.

In his victory speech, Mamdani declared, “We have toppled a political dynasty. The future is in our hands.” He pledged to create a government that works “for everyone” and to prioritize the needs of working-class New Yorkers.

According to projections from CBS News, Mamdani secured 50.3% of the vote, while Cuomo earned 41.6%. Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa trailed with just over 7% before conceding.

National attention on Mamdani’s campaign grew after President Donald Trump criticized his policies, labeling him a communist, a claim Mamdani rejected. Trump also threatened to withhold federal funds from New York if Mamdani won.

Beyond New York, Democrats celebrated major wins in Virginia, New Jersey, and California, signaling momentum ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Still, challenges await Mamdani as he faces questions about how he will fund his ambitious social agenda and navigate tensions with a Republican-led Congress.

For now, his victory stands as a defining moment for progressive politics and the next generation of leadership in New York City.

KNUST Dominate 28th GUSA Cross Country and Minor Games

By
Ivy Hollys
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Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has emerged as the overall winner of the 28th Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA) Cross Country and 2nd Minor Games held at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) in Somanya.

The week-long competition, which ran from October 27 to November 1, 2025, brought together 16 public universities under the theme “Harnessing the Lesser-Known Sports: The Key to Developing the 21st Century Sportsman.”

KNUST dominated across several disciplines, winning gold medals in Chess, Scrabble, and Tug of War, affirming their superiority in both physical and mental sports.

In the 10km Cross Country Mixed Relay, KNUST maintained a commanding lead from start to finish, ahead of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) and the University for Development Studies (UDS), who placed second and third respectively.

The University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) took gold in Ampe, followed by C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) with silver and host institution UESD with bronze.

KNUST also claimed gold in both men’s and women’s Chess, while University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) and University of Cape Coast (UCC) won silver in their respective divisions. GIMPA and GCTU earned bronze medals.

The Tug of War event saw KNUST clinch another gold, with University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) and UDS finishing second and third. In Scrabble, KNUST swept gold in both categories, ahead of UESD, GCTU, UCC, and GIMPA.

The results reaffirm KNUST’s dominance in university sports, reflecting a balanced pursuit of academic excellence and athletic distinction.

Mfantsipim, Opoku Ware, and St. Augustine’s Set for NSMQ 2025 Grand Finale

By
Ivy Hollys
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nsmq
PHOTO CREDIT: myjoyonline

The countdown is on for the 2025 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) Grand Finale, and anticipation is at an all-time high. Set for Thursday, November 6, at the SGS Auditorium, University of Cape Coast, this year’s final promises one of the fiercest academic battles in recent memory.

Mfantsipim School, Opoku Ware School, and St. Augustine’s College: three giants of Ghanaian secondary education with a combined seven national titles are all chasing glory. Each contender enters the competition with strong momentum, history, and a burning hunger to lift the prestigious NSMQ trophy.

Mfantsipim School, fondly known as BOTWE, are the defending champions after winning the 2024 edition. With three national titles to their name (1999, 2014, 2024), they are aiming for a rare back-to-back victory that would cement their place as NSMQ legends.

Representing the Ashanti Region, Opoku Ware School (OWASS) is seeking a third national crown after triumphs in 1997 and 2002. Their dominant semifinal performance and 2025 regional championship victory have reignited hopes of ending their two-decade wait for another national title.

From Cape Coast, St. Augustine’s College (AUGUSCO) enters the finale determined to reclaim the crown they last held in 2019. With two national titles (2007 and 2019), the Saints have shown consistency and strategy throughout this year’s competition.

As these three academic powerhouses prepare for the ultimate showdown, the question remains: Who will conquer the 2025 NSMQ? Will BOTWE defend their title, will OWASS reclaim their lost glory, or will AUGUSCO rise once more?

GAC Chair Calls for National Ownership of HIV Response

By
Ivy Hollys
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Ghana Must Lead Its HIV Fight

Chairman of the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) Governing Board, Kakra Essamuah, has urged Ghanaians to take charge of the country’s HIV response. He warned that global funding is declining, which threatens the sustainability of national programmes.

He said Ghana’s success depends on local resource mobilisation, strong partnerships, and continued political and community support.

Private Sector Must Step Up

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 World AIDS Day in Accra on Tuesday, Mr. Essamuah called for greater private sector involvement. He explained that HIV affects productivity and slows economic growth.

“The private sector must rise to the challenge by investing in workplace HIV programmes and supporting awareness and testing drives,” he said.

Strengthening Local Support

Meanwhile, Acting Director-General of the GAC, Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, said Ghana must act fast to respond to global economic pressures and reduced donor aid. He encouraged citizens to contribute to the National HIV and AIDS Fund to sustain ongoing programmes.

According to him, “Ghana must mobilise, innovate, and lead its own HIV response.”

Ending Stigma and Discrimination

Additionally, Dr. Akanbong condemned stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. He noted that HIV is now a manageable condition, and affected persons deserve respect and inclusion.

He said this year’s global theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” reflects Ghana’s current funding and health challenges.

Protecting Progress

Furthermore, Dr. Akanbong assured that the Commission will continue working with partners to maintain progress in prevention and treatment.

World AIDS Day, marked each year, renews Ghana’s commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Activities Across the Country

This year’s campaign will promote voluntary testing, treatment adherence, and care in line with the UN 95-95-95 targets. Throughout November, the GAC will lead education and condom distribution programmes with support from local assemblies.

Finally, the celebration will end on December 1, 2025, with a national address by President John Dramani Mahama on Ghana’s HIV response.

France Suspends Shein Over ‘Childlike’ Sex Doll Scandal

By
Ivy Hollys
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shein

The French government has suspended Shein’s access to the French market after finding “childlike” sex dolls listed on the fast-fashion giant’s platform.

The finance ministry said on Wednesday that Shein’s French website will remain blocked until the company proves all its products comply with French laws and consumer protection standards.

The suspension follows revelations by France’s anti-fraud agency that third-party sellers were promoting sex dolls resembling children on the site. The news sparked public outrage just as Shein opened its first-ever physical store in Paris’ BHV department store.

In response, Shein said it had halted all third-party sales in France to ensure full compliance with national laws.

Public Backlash and Protests

The launch of Shein’s Paris store triggered mass protests, with activists, union leaders, and local officials condemning the brand for promoting disposable, unsustainable fashion. Paris Deputy Mayor Nicolas Bonnet-Oulaldj urged the economy minister to permanently ban the platform, saying it was “contrary to the city’s values.”

Several top brands — including Disney, Figaret, and Armor Lux — have since pulled their products from BHV, distancing themselves from the controversy.

Legal and Ethical Fallout

France’s High Commissioner for Children, Sarah El-Haïry, condemned the dolls as “deliberate miniature copies of children,” calling buyers “potential predators.” Authorities have also opened criminal investigations into Shein, Temu, AliExpress, and Wish for allegedly distributing illegal or harmful content accessible to minors.

Despite the scandal, Shein maintains that it removed all offending listings and banned sex dolls from its site. The company pledged to cooperate fully with French regulators.

The scandal comes as France pushes to strengthen ethical fashion standards and protect its reputation as the global capital of haute couture.

Government Takes Steps to Resolve Rice Glut, Assures Farmers

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The National Coordinator of the Feed Ghana Programme, Bright Demordzi, has reassured rice farmers. He acknowledged that many farmers are struggling to sell their produce. This situation has emerged across several regions where rice production exceeded market demand. Consequently, the government is implementing measures to stabilise the rice market and support affected farmers.

Speaking earlier on Tuesday, November 4, Mr Demordzi explained that the current challenges stem from an unexpected bumper harvest. Small-scale interventions were initially planned, but production quickly surpassed expectations. Therefore, farmers now face difficulties in selling their rice, transporting produce, and accessing markets. Without proper planning along the value chain, such challenges are likely to occur.

To address the issue, the Feed Ghana Programme has initiated steps to purchase the excess rice from the system. This intervention aims to balance supply and demand while preventing losses for farmers. Mr Demordzi expressed confidence that the market glut will reduce in the coming weeks. He highlighted that coordination with local buyers and market actors is already underway to ensure smooth implementation.

The Coordinator emphasised the importance of long-term planning to prevent similar issues in future harvests. Strengthening market linkages, improving logistics, and supporting farmers with timely information are key priorities. The government also plans to expand interventions across other crops and regions to promote overall agricultural stability.

He stated, “We are now struggling to ensure that we buy the excess from the system, and we are on course. We are buying. I think that in the next two to three weeks, this issue of the glut of the rice paddy will come down.”

Meanwhile, farmers have welcomed the government’s proactive approach. They believe that buying excess rice will prevent post-harvest losses and provide financial relief. Analysts also note that improving planning along the agricultural value chain will increase efficiency and ensure sustainable growth in the sector.

Overall, the Feed Ghana Programme’s intervention reflects the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, stabilising the rice market, and strengthening Ghana’s agricultural economy for the future.

How Would You Feel If Your Partner Fought Over You In Public?

By
Ivy Hollys
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feel
Two school kids fight in a dark passageway of their school, almost silhouette.

On today’s episode of The Urban Mix with Adwoa Afranewaa Frimpong, the team tackled a fiery question that got everyone talking: Would you feel flattered or embarrassed if your partner fought over you in public?

The discussion was both hilarious and thought-provoking. Adwoa opened the floor by asking whether fighting for love in public is romantic or simply a sign of insecurity.

Guest Rhodalin Apenteng Aku said she would be completely embarrassed if her partner ever fought because of her.

“Love should never make someone lose control in public,” she explained. “That’s not a show of love, it’s a lack of self-control.”

Kofi Boamah admitted he might feel a little flattered at first but would mostly be embarrassed.

“Part of you might think, ‘Wow, this person really cares.’ But after that moment, you realise everyone’s staring at you and you feel embarrassed,” he said.

Nelly, another guest on the show, shared that she would also feel embarrassed. “It’s not something I’d want to witness or be part of,” she said. “I’d rather my partner walk away than start a fight.”

Listeners on Orange FM’s WhatsApp line added even more flavour to the conversation.

Portia wrote, “My partner shouldn’t be fighting over me in public. I wouldn’t create room for that.” Raymond said, “I’d be very embarrassed. It could even make me lose interest in my partner.”

Samuel said, “It’s a 60-40 thing, but I’ll be more embarrassed though.”

Afua, on the other hand, brought the humour, saying, “I’ll be like yeah daddy, give him blow in the jaw!”

No definite answer was given, but the conversation surely gave listeners something to think about.

GTEC Directs Public Universities to Stop Unapproved Fee Hikes for 2025/2026

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission has cautioned all public tertiary institutions against introducing or revising student fees. The warning specifically targets the 2025/2026 academic year. The Commission emphasized that no university should implement any fee changes without parliamentary approval. This directive follows reports that some universities increased fees despite government policies. Consequently, the Ministry of Education intervened to prevent further unauthorised adjustments.

On Monday, November 3, 2025, the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, directed GTEC to issue a firm instruction. The directive orders public universities to halt all unauthorised tuition fee hikes. According to the Ministry, arbitrary increases could undermine the government’s No Fees Stress Policy. This policy provides free tertiary education for first-year students and persons with disabilities. Therefore, ensuring compliance is critical to safeguarding student welfare.

Furthermore, GTEC noted that several institutions have historically adjusted fees without following proper procedures. Over the years, such practices have caused challenges in implementation and compliance. To prevent confusion and financial strain on students, the Commission insists that universities maintain current fees. Until Parliament reviews and approves any proposed changes, no institution should alter tuition charges.

In the statement sent to Vice Chancellors of traditional and technical universities, GTEC emphasized the legal requirement. It stated, “To ensure compliance with statutory requirements under the Fees and Charges Act and in line with its mandate to promote the effective and efficient operation of tertiary education institutions, GTEC reminds all universities that new fees for the 2025/2026 academic year cannot be charged without prior approval from Parliament, as mandated by law.”

Meanwhile, student advocacy groups have welcomed the Commission’s directive. They argue it protects families from unexpected financial burdens. At the same time, university administrators caution that rising operational costs remain a concern. Nevertheless, GTEC maintains that compliance with legal procedures ensures fairness, transparency, and accountability. The Commission will closely monitor universities to enforce adherence while Parliament considers fee proposals for the upcoming academic year.

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