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Deplorable condition of Pokuase–Nsawam road triggers ultimatum from transport union

By
Ivy Hollys
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deplorable state of nsawam road

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has threatened to strike if the government fails to address the deplorable condition of the Pokuase–Nsawam road. The union has given the government a one-week ultimatum, which expires on Wednesday, 20 August.

The Nsawam–Ofankor road project, awarded in July 2022, was expected to be completed by July 2024. Revised timelines shifted the completion date to May 2025, but work remains unfinished. Analysts estimate the project is 68% complete, leaving 32% outstanding.

The road is supposed to be about 33.4 kilometers with 10 lanes. Six of the 10 lanes are supposed to be for express, and then four for services and other connections. The road also includes four interchanges.

Completion requires $346.5 million, approximately GH¢34 billion. However, delays have compounded challenges for commuters, who continue to endure the deplorable condition of the stretch.

Budget shortfalls and compensation hurdles

According to the Ministry of Roads and Highways, only 47% of Ghana’s roads are in good condition. About 32% are fairly good, while 21% remain in a deplorable condition. Despite this, budget allocations to the sector are projected to drop by 30% this year.

A large share of funds is used for management and administration, leaving just GH¢1.2 billion for actual capital projects. By contrast, the Nsawam–Ofankor project alone requires more than GH¢34 billion.

The project has also stalled over compensation disputes. So far, the estimation is that compensation alone is expected to cover around 4.3 million Ghana cedis.

Ultimatum from transport operators

The deplorable condition of the Pokuase–Nsawam stretch poses both national and regional risks. The road serves as a critical link between Accra and Kumasi and provides a transit route for Burkina Faso and other Sahelian nations relying on Ghana’s ports. The GPRTU says it will only suspend its planned sit-down strike if the government resumes repair works immediately. The union insists the strike action is necessary to highlight the dangers created by the deplorable condition of the road.

For now, commuters, transport operators, and traders continue to struggle with the effects of the deplorable condition, awaiting clear government action before the ultimatum deadline.

WAEC outlines security measures for WASSCE in high-risk zones

By
Ivy Hollys
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WAEC on WASSCE

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has assured candidates of adequate security during the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The council says special arrangements have been made to ensure smooth conduct of the WASSCE in high-risk and conflict-prone zones.

Head of Public Affairs of WAEC, John Kapi, said the council has identified regions with recurring issues of examination malpractice and insecurity. “We have some hotspots across the country. Normally, we wouldn’t want to mention them before the examination for very good reasons,” he noted.

However, he revealed that Bono East, Central, and Ashanti regions have recorded high cases of malpractice in previous WASSCE sittings. According to him, WAEC has increased its presence in such areas to curb the activities of malpractice cartels involving teachers, invigilators, supervisors, and even townspeople.

He added that WAEC continues to collaborate with the Ghana Police Service and the National Intelligence Bureau to monitor rogue websites and clamp down on fraudulent activities linked to the WASSCE.

Security for conflict-prone zones

Speaking on areas affected by insecurity, Mr. Kapi cited Bawku as a major concern. He explained that during the previous BECE examination, earlier this year, WAEC operated a depot in Zebilla, where officials collected papers under police escort to Bawku.

“So from Zebilla the examination officials, that is, the district exam officials, would drive under police escort to Zebilla, pick up the questions, go back, have the candidates write, and then return the scripts to our depot keeper at Zebilla. That’s what we did, and that’s the same thing we wanted to replicate for the WASSCE,” he explained.

He also revealed that boarding arrangements have now been made for WASSCE candidates in Bawku to avoid commuting during the examinations.

Safety in other regions

Mr. Kapi added that WAEC has also taken steps in Zuarungu, Nalerigu, and Nkwanta to guarantee safe examinations. Local authorities in these areas, he said, have assured WAEC of adequate security support.

He added that they were in constant touch with other personnel in the region to address the security situation.

He said, “We are in constant touch with our personnel in the region so that they give us feedback as to what the security situation is and then what can be done about it. But for now, we believe that whatever measures have been put in place are going to work for the smooth conduct of the examination.”

WAEC affirms preparedness for 2025 WASSCE with over 461,000 candidates

By
Ivy Hollys
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WAEC

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) says it is fully prepared to conduct the 2025 WASSCE. According to WAEC, a total of 461,640 candidates are expected to sit for the WASSCE this year.

Head of Public Affairs of WAEC, John Kapi, explained that the council remains committed to conducting credible examinations. Mr. Kapi noted that WAEC works closely with the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education. He stressed that the GES is responsible for implementing policies while WAEC provides the technical expertise for structuring and administering the WASSCE.

“The collaboration is between us and the Ghana Education Service because they are supposed to be the policy implementers. And so examinations actually belong to them. The syllabuses would belong to them,” he stated.

He further explained that the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment also plays a role in shaping the syllabuses used for the WASSCE. WAEC then extracts examinable areas from the teaching syllabus to design the examination syllabus.

Question setting and security measures

On the question-setting process, Mr. Kapi emphasized strict confidentiality. “Every subject officer has a safe in his office. And you are supposed to have an office to yourself. You are not supposed to share your office with anybody,” he said.

According to him, subject officers compile papers individually and later typeset them under secure conditions before sending them to WAEC’s security printing department. The process, he said, ensures fairness, quality, and the integrity of the WASSCE.

This year, 207,381 males and 254,259 females will sit for the WASSCE. Mr. Kapi revealed that the total represents a 0.22% increase over last year’s candidature.

He assured the public that WAEC remains committed to upholding the validity of the WASSCE. 

“You gave me the experience of being loved and utterly understood.” – Widow of Ernest Addo

By
Ivy Hollys
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Sergeant Ernest Addo

The widow of Sergeant Ernest Addo, one of the eight victims of last Wednesday’s helicopter crash, has described him as her “biggest cheerleader” and the man who gave her “the experience of being deeply understood and utterly loved.”

In her emotional tribute, she recalled his constant encouragement and affection, often calling her countless times a day. She said Sergeant Ernest Addo’s kindness, humility, and dedication to service earned him the nickname “adwumawura” among those who knew him.

“The Z9 helicopter was like your first child, and in every conversation you would find a way to bring it up,” she said, remembering how he would spend long nights researching how to care for the aircraft.

She shared that they were married for only a month, yet the years they knew each other were “undoubtedly the best moments” of her life. She recounted suggesting they marry on his birthday, July 5, so he would never forget their anniversary.

According to her, Sergeant Ernest Addo’s love for God was unmatched, and she affectionately called him “my apostle.” His favourite Bible verse was Isaiah 54:10: “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken.”

According to her, on the morning of the accident, she called him feeling unusually sad, and his first response was to pray with her before telling her he had a flight to Obuasi and would be back.

“I’m still waiting. I do not know for how long I will continue waiting. But I will still wait,” she said.

Declaring that “death has not won,” she said Sergeant Ernest Addo died knowing Christ as his Lord and Saviour. 

“Meeting you has shown me that angels truly exist in human form. You’ll forever be my hero. Forever in my thoughts. Never to die. Continue to rest in the bosom of our Lord. Till we meet again. Goodbye, my love.”

GFA President Thanks MTN for Investing in Youth Football

By
Ivy Hollys
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GFA President Thanks MTN for Investing in Youth Football
GFA President Thanks MTN for Investing in Youth Football

GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon Okuraku has thanked MTN Ghana for empowering young footballers.
He expressed his gratitude to MTN Ghana’s CEO Stephen Blewett during the announcement of a major partnership.


The two-year sponsorship deal is valued at $2 million and supports national football teams.
It will benefit the Black Stars, Black Queens, Black Princesses, and Black Starlets.


Okuraku said the agreement reflects MTN’s belief in investing in the youth for a better future.
He added that Ghana and MTN have demonstrated leadership by committing to youth development.
The GFA leader thanked MTN for supporting the country’s long-term football ambitions.


He acknowledged that the partnership will provide critical operational support for young players preparing for tournaments.
Okuraku emphasised that the investment ensures that young athletes remain competitive for major championships.
He stated that a long-standing challenge facing the national teams has now been addressed by MTN.
The GFA president believes the deal shows confidence in Ghana’s talented youth.


He further noted the importance of this collaboration in developing football across the country.
Okuraku highlighted that the $2 million partnership will strengthen national teams’ preparations.


He expressed hope that the new support will lead to long-term football success.
The GFA views MTN’s commitment as a strong signal of support for Ghanaian youth and national pride.

“You were truly my best friend” – Widow’s tribute to Flying Officer Twum Ampadu

By
Ivy Hollys
-
Manaen Twum Ampadu

The widow of Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, one of the eight victims of last Wednesday’s helicopter crash, has paid a deeply emotional tribute to her late husband, describing him as her “best friend” and “everything.”

She recalled that on the evening she received news of Twum Ampadu’s death, she saw what she described as “a ridiculously beautiful sunset” and questioned how the world could continue when her life had come to a standstill.

The couple met in 2022 on his birthday and, according to her, had been inseparable ever since. 

Addressing him directly in her tribute, she said, “Mani, what is this grief? And what am I supposed to do with it? Mani, what do I do without you? And how do I carry on from here? You were truly your name to me. You were my best friend.”

She described the silence since the crash as “too loud” and admitted she has been checking her phone repeatedly for a message, picture, or call from Twum Ampadu. She said she still expects him to walk in with his smile, even though she has been waiting since Wednesday.

Her tribute highlighted his attentiveness, sense of humour, and care for her. She said she would ensure his story is told and his memory preserved. 

She thanked Twum Ampadu for blessing her life with “brilliance” and for the years they shared together. Referring to him as her “correct better half,” “lover,” and “best friend,” she said her love for him goes beyond what words can convey.

“I miss you. My forever and a day. Sleep well, my love. May the earth rest lightly on you. God be with you till we meet again,” she said.

Her tribute closed with the assurance that the bond she shared with Twum Ampadu will remain unbroken despite his absence.

“Baafemi, my love, journey well” – Widow’s tribute to Squadron Leader Peter Anala

By
Ivy Hollys
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Peter Baafemi

The widow of Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, one of the eight victims of last Wednesday’s helicopter crash, has delivered an emotional tribute to her late husband, recalling his love, selflessness, and dedication to his family and country.

She described Baafemi as her “answered prayer.” Known for his hard work, she said she had never seen anyone more committed to his duties. 

Baafemi had vowed never to let her struggle and, according to her, kept that promise by ensuring she never lacked anything.

Her tribute painted a picture of a man who cared deeply for his family and friends, often sacrificing his own comfort for others. She recalled how two months before the crash, Baafemi was in the delivery room as they welcomed their baby girl. 

In her words, those two weeks were filled with endless kisses for baby Wendler and the widest smiles she had ever seen from him. The widow reflected on the short, tender moments they shared before his final flight. She lamented the videos she will never receive, expressing the heartbreak of losing him so suddenly.

She vowed to cherish every moment they shared and expressed longing for a “glorious reunion” in the future. Her tribute ended with a farewell: “Baafemi, my love, journey well. I love you.”

Your last words to me were “take care babe, I love you.” – Widow of Samuel Aboagye shares tribute

By
Ivy Hollys
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samuel aboagye

The widow of Samuel Aboagye, one of the eight who died in the helicopter crash last Wednesday, has delivered a moving tribute to her late husband. Samuel Aboagye’s wife expressed her deep grief, recalling the love and bond they shared until his final moments.

She described Samuel Aboagye’s passing as leaving “an emptiness nothing in this world could ever fill.” Despite her sorrow, she lamented choosing to remember the incredible man he was and the love they shared.

She lamented that the loss was an irreplaceable void, yet chose to focus on the life and love they shared. Samuel Aboagye, she said, was a man of strength, purpose, and a good heart. His commitment to his career and the people around him left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

The couple’s bond, built on mutual choice and dedication, was strengthened through challenges, they overcame together. She remembered how he brought her joy, protection and pledged that their two daughters will carry his spirit forward.

In her reflection, she recalled his thoughtful birthday message earlier this year and said she had been eagerly counting down the days to reunite with Samuel Aboagye in Atlanta, Georgia, on the 18th of August. 

She recounted how on the morning of the crash, Samuel Aboagye’s last words to her were, “Take care babe, I love you.” She said those words will remain in her heart as both a farewell and an eternal promise.

She expressed gratitude for the years they spent together, for the family they built, and for the example of true partnership he demonstrated. She prayed for his eternal peace, believing he now rests in the grace and light of God.

Military Explains Use of Cocoa Sacks in Helicopter Crash Recovery

By
Ivy Hollys
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helicopter crash, cocoa sacks

The Ghana Armed Forces have defended their decision to use cocoa sacks to transport some bodies recovered from the recent helicopter crash. The incident sparked public concern after reports indicated that the remains of victims were not all carried in body bags.

The crash, which claimed the lives of two cabinet ministers, three senior government officials, and three aircrew members, left the security forces in a state of mourning. Recovery efforts took place in a remote, forested area over 800 feet above sea level, making access and retrieval challenging.

According to the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, body bags were available at the scene. However, the extreme heat of the remains made their immediate use unsafe. He explained that the team on the high ground had to decide between leaving the remains overnight or using cocoa sacks to bring them down to the medical teams waiting below.

“We had some body bags at the scene, but the remains were so heated that it was not conducive for the bags to be used,” he said.

Once the remains reached the foot of the hill, medical teams transferred them into body bags, some of which were supplied by Anglogold Ashanti. From there, they were transported to Kumasi in ambulances, placed in coffins, and draped in national colours before being moved to Accra for an official reception.

Recovery Effort Faced Terrain and Time Challenges

The crash site’s location and the urgency of the operation forced the military to adapt. The recovery team had to navigate difficult terrain while racing against nightfall. The Chief of Defence Staff noted that the search was one of the fastest recovery operations for a helicopter accident in Ghana.

Initial rescue efforts began about 30 minutes after the aircraft lost communication. Military teams moved in after receiving reports from locals near the crash site, but by the time they arrived, civilians had already begun interfering with the scene.

The use of cocoa sacks, he stressed, was not due to a lack of planning but a practical response to conditions on the ground. In his words, the soldiers “did the best with the resources they had at hand.”

Response to Public Concerns

Deputy Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kamaldeen Abdulai, criticised aspects of the emergency response, particularly the actions of some people at the scene. He pointed to Ghana’s tendency for untrained individuals to rush in to help during accidents, sometimes affecting professional response efforts.

Despite such criticisms, the Armed Forces insisted that every step of the recovery, from the crash site to the capital, was carried out with dignity. They emphasised that the use of cocoa sacks was a temporary measure, with all remains eventually placed in proper body bags before onward transport.

Galamsey Threat Endangers Health Across Ghana – Dr. Dennis Bortey Warns

By
Ivy Hollys
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galamsey threat

Private legal practitioner Dr. Dennis Bortey has described the galamsey threat as a serious public health danger. He expressed deep concern about the increasing presence of toxic heavy metals in food and water. He expressed dissatisfaction with the quantum of heavy metals that food is laced with. Dr. Bortey explained that beyond visible water pollution, dangerous substances have infiltrated the nation’s food supply.


Dr. Bortey explained that although the body requires some vitamins in this water, it does so in minimal amounts. “Even iron, which is supposed to help our blood in terms of increasing our blood level or hemoglobin, is needed in a certain amount. Beyond a certain amount, iron becomes poisonous.”

Dr. Bortey warned that excess heavy metals could lead to serious conditions such as hemochromatosis or hemociderosis. He warned that current contamination levels are alarming, with hospitals seeing more young people with strokes.

“This morning, I’ve seen a young man, 36. He was like, I don’t know why my blood pressure is 171,” he revealed. The galamsey threat, he said, is not confined to mining areas but affects the entire country.

Toxic Metals Pose Nationwide Risks

Dr. Bortey stressed that contaminated water reaches homes nationwide through taps despite treatment efforts.
“No matter how much our sewage system tries to eliminate all this from the water, the quantum of these toxic substances that come into the arena for it to be filtered means that some will still leak or seep into the water we drink,” he said.


According to him, no one is safe. He explained that heavy metals in food are invisible but have severe chemical effects on the body, noting that the brain’s protective barrier cannot stop all toxic metals such as mercury, arsenic, or lead.


“With time, it keeps accumulating in the brain substance. It will bring to the fore a neurological problem,” he warned.
This, he said, could lead to increased cases of cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s, and dementia among younger people.

Beyond the brain, Dr. Bortey warned that these substances can damage the lungs, heart, and even human genetic makeup.

“Future generations that will be born are likely to have a lot of genetic problems,” Dr. Bortey stated. He urged urgent action against the galamsey threat to prevent worsening health conditions.


“The earlier we do something about it, the better. Otherwise, we should brace ourselves for a huge, long haul of a fight against all kinds of disease conditions that we are likely to be plagued with into the future,” he remarked.

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