For more than five decades, the people of Anou in the Offinso South Municipality lived with a massive refuse heap that posed serious health hazards — but that long-standing challenge has finally been resolved.
Grateful residents are commending their traditional leaders and the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for their collaborative effort in clearing the over-50-year-old waste site that had plagued the community for generations.
The bold sanitation intervention was made possible through the joint efforts of Nananom and the MCE, who pulled together resources and coordinated logistics to ensure the successful removal of the refuse.
Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanin Barimah Kese, the Nyankyerenease Nkosuohene and CEO of Shamor Herbal Center, played a key role in leading the cleanup exercise. He fueled the DRIP machines that carried out the work—equipment provided to the community by Hon. Owusu Amoako Frank, popularly known as “Aboadie”, the MCE of Offinso South.
In an interaction with the media, residents said the removal of the decades-old waste will go a long way to reduce disease outbreaks and boost public health in the area.
They also noted that the initiative has enhanced the environmental outlook of the community, making it cleaner and more habitable.
“We are thankful to our leaders for this important step, which we believe will uplift living standards in Anou,” a resident stated.
The business community in the Ashanti Region has expressed optimism following the presentation of the mid-year budget by Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, last Thursday.
The presentation, which outlined key economic relief measures, has sparked positive reactions among local businesses, especially with the government’s plan to reduce inflation to approximately 11.9 percent by the end of the year.
Among the initiatives announced were the abolishment of the COVID-19 levy, a reduction in the VAT rate, and a commitment to sustain the appreciation of the Ghana cedi—measures that many believe could ease the burden on businesses and stimulate growth.
Industry players say these steps are encouraging and could offer a renewed sense of stability for the private sector in the region.
Mid-Year Budget Measures Bring Relief to Ashanti Businesses
Stephen Acheampong, Immediate Past Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the removal of the COVID-19 levy, describing it as long overdue.
“The Covid -19 is no more, so why do we still have to tax the people, that is going to put pressure on businesses, so I think is a good idea to abolish the tax, because is not going to help anybody anymore,” he said.
He emphasized that reducing unnecessary taxes will lessen the pressure on entrepreneurs and help businesses recover from the economic challenges they have faced in recent years.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, is expressing concerns about the increasing incidents of drug abuse and prostitution among adolescents in the region.
He stated that the situation is alarming and emphasized the need for collaboration among stakeholders to address the issue.
Dr. Amoakohene noted that while street prostitution is a problem, there is a concerning shift toward online activities, with many young girls engaging in hookups.
He made these comments during the 48th Annual General and Scientific Meeting of the West African College of Physicians, Ghana Chapter, held in Kumasi.
He explained that he has noticed various forms of prostitutions in the region which include visible and invisible ones.
He said “the visible ones are those that we see on the streets at night around the Viena city among other areas of town. The invisible ones are the hookups, where they only engage themselves on social media platforms and exchange sex for goods.”
Tinker Island Identified as Major Drug Hub
The Minister also reassured the public that measures are being implemented to effectively tackle the situation on Tinker Island and that efforts will be made to ensure that the victims receive the necessary treatment and are reunited with their families.
“We have a community that has close to 5,000 population, and what they do there is drugs—that is Tinker Island,” he revealed.
Munashe Dube (center), 22, smokes a cigarette he dipped in adhesive thinners while his friends Tinashe Katewe, 15, and Thembinkosi Siziba, 23, wait their turn to smoke in Bulawayo’s City Centre. Dube has been homeless for 7 years. (Linda Chinobva, GPJ Zimbabwe)
“Just recent time, we had support from the Interior Minister to close the Tinker Island, and we realized that close to 500 of them were depending on drugs and needed support for rehabilitation,” he added.
He emphasized that they are still having challenges in relation to rehabilitation and are working diligently to resolve them, ensuring that after treatment, they can be handed over to their families.
A wave of anger and anxiety is sweeping through Manso Tontokrom in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, as residents accuse Asanko Gold Mines of deploying military personnel to a disputed mining concession—without legal backing or community consultation.
The development has reignited a long-running conflict between the mining company and the local community, with fears growing that the situation could spiral into another deadly confrontation.
Residents say they recently spotted uniformed soldiers guarding parts of the concession area, despite no official agreement allowing such action. The community views this as an act of intimidation and a violation of their rights.
The tensions are not new. In 2024, a violent clash between residents and private security personnel hired by the company left three people dead—one shot by security forces and two security men lynched in retaliation by angry youth.
Asanko’s Actions Could Spark Another Bloodbath” – Youth Warn Over Renewed Military Presence
A Youth Activist at the community, Noah Antwi, has described the military presence as both unnecessary and dangerous.
“Time and again, Asanko Gold Mines brings in soldiers to protect areas they have no rightful claim to. These actions stem from negligence and lack of respect for our people,” he told Fatawu Bayaga during an interview on the Orange Headline News.
“We’re pleading with government to step in now before things get out of hand. We don’t want another bloodbath like last year,” he added.
He also criticized the company for doing little to support the community despite its large-scale operations.
“They’ve done nothing meaningful for us—not even proper housing for their staff. Yet they try to claim ownership of lands that aren’t theirs. We will not sit quietly,” Antwi added.
Residents are calling on the government and regulatory bodies to intervene immediately and de-escalate the growing tension.
Striker reinforcements remain a priority for Manchester United as they weigh options during the transfer window.
Watkins and Sesko Lead United’s Striker Targets
Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko are leading candidates to fill United’s striker role. The club is actively exploring options to strengthen its attacking line before the transfer deadline.
United’s management acknowledges the need to offload surplus players to create financial room for a new striker. Such outgoings are not expected to be finalized until closer to the 1 September deadline.
Neither Watkins nor Sesko is likely to be an easy acquisition. Both players are under contract and currently valued highly by their clubs.
RB Leipzig’s Sesko, aged 22, is drawing interest from Newcastle United, who remain active in the market. The Slovenian international scored 13 goals in 33 Bundesliga matches last season, attracting widespread attention.
Newcastle’s pursuit of Sesko reflects uncertainty over their own striker, Alexander Isak, whose future remains unclear.
Man United Weigh Move as Villa Stand Firm on Watkins
Aston Villa has firmly stated it does not plan to sell England striker Ollie Watkins. His current contract runs until 2028, reinforcing their position ahead of any formal approach.
Despite Villa’s stance, Manchester United believes circumstances could shift closer to the transfer deadline.
There is skepticism at Old Trafford over the reported £60 million valuation for the 29-year-old forward. Club officials view the price as excessive, particularly given the player’s age and long-term contract.
United remains cautious in its negotiations, aware that either striker would require significant financial commitment. However, the club’s intent to strengthen its frontline remains firm as the window progresses.
Further developments are expected as player exits and budget availability become clearer in the coming weeks.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has stated that the commissioning of the Sewua Regional Hospital by the NPP government was motivated by political gains rather than a genuine effort to address the healthcare needs of residents.
Speaking to the media in Kumasi, the Minister pointed out that many aspects of the hospital, including essential medical installations, are still incomplete, making the commissioning unreasonable.
“The hospital is not completed, it lacks facilities and medical installations, and the area is still bush, so it was unreasonable to commission it,” the Regional Minister explained.
He revealed that the commissioning was done for political purposes, ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Streetlight Project to Boost Security Near Kumasi, Including Areas Around Hospital Zones
The Minister also disclosed that approximately 2,500 solar-powered streetlights are being procured to address poor lighting conditions and improve security in parts of the Ashanti Region, particularly Kumasi.
“Kumasi has been dark even doing the election time and before the election time. It’s a major concern because it raise concerns about road safety, security issues and the city beautification. This common fund did not make provision for street lighting and other things for the district assemblies, so every street lighting function is directly under ministry of energy,” Dr. Frank Amoakohene said.
He indicated that the necessary assessments have been completed for streets in need of urgent lighting.
According to him, the Ministry of Energy is directly handling the project and is taking steps to roll out the installations.
Dr. Amoakohene added that most assemblies have struggled to fix lighting issues due to limitations under the current disbursement structure of the Common Fund.
Nigeria pulled off a sensational second-half comeback to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 and claim their 10th CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations WAFCON title on Saturday night in Rabat.
Trailing 2-0 at the break, the Super Falcons showed their trademark resilience and quality, with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and a late winner from Joe Echegini turning the game on its head at the Stade Olympique.
Nigeria Pull Off Dramatic WAFCON Fightback to Silence Host Nation
Morocco had raced into an early lead through Ghizlane Chebbak’s fine strike in the 12th minute before Sanaâ Mssoudy doubled the advantage with a composed finish after a slick pass from Ibtissam Jraidi.
But Nigeria fought back after the hour mark when a VAR review handed them a penalty, converted by Okoronkwo. She then set up Ijamilusi for the equaliser in the 71st minute. With the game heading for extra time, Echegini struck in the 88th minute from a well-executed set-piece, sealing a memorable comeback.
Despite Morocco’s late push, Nigeria held on for a famous win, reaffirming their dominance in African women’s football and denying the Atlas Lionesses a first-ever title on home soil.
The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has rolled out a series of emergency security measures following the assassination of Alhaji Abdul-Malik Azenbge, Chief of the Kusaase community, who was fatally shot at his residence in Asewase on Tuesday, July 22.
In a press release issued on Friday, July 25, the Ashanti Regional Co-ordinating Council confirmed the convening of an emergency REGSEC meeting on Wednesday, July 24, to assess the security situation and take immediate action.
REGSEC has since imposed a curfew on motorbike operations after 7:00 p.m. daily and banned the use of unlicensed or unlit motorbikes. Riders have also been prohibited from wearing smocks—a traditional attire now believed to be used by suspects to conceal weapons.
In a controversial but strategic move, the council also ordered the suspension of the ongoing inter-tribal football competition in the area. The tournament, seen by many as a platform for peace-building and social cohesion among the region’s diverse communities, has been temporarily halted in light of recent tensions.
“These steps are necessary to restore calm, protect lives and ensure no further escalation,” said Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who signed the statement. “The government remains committed to maintaining law and order and will ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.”
REGSEC’s Mandate and Powers
The new regulations come as security forces step up their presence in identified hotspot communities, deploying both police and military personnel to patrol and deter further violence.
While many residents have welcomed the crackdown as a step toward restoring peace, some community leaders have expressed concern that banning cultural garments and suspending youth football may breed resentment or unintentionally disrupt peaceful interactions.
“We understand the need for security, but the smock is part of our heritage. Football has also been helping to bridge tribal divides. Taking that away could affect community relations,” one local elder commented under condition of anonymity.
REGSEC has urged the public to support the ongoing investigations by volunteering credible information and assured residents that the measures are temporary and aimed at preserving public safety.
“The doors of the Security Services are open to anyone with information that will help identify those behind this tragic incident,” the statement concluded.
Queen Scholastica Nsiah Tiwaa, founder of the Miss Manso Beauty Pageant, has called on parents to empower their children by teaching them both practical skills and their native language, especially Twi, to preserve Ghanaian culture and identity.
According to her, it is not enough for children to be fluent in English while neglecting their local tongue. “Some Akan children can’t even respond when you speak Twi to them. That is worrying. As parents, we must teach our children our language. It’s how we protect and promote our culture,” she said.
She also emphasized the need to give young women the opportunity to develop their talents and gain hands-on skills that will help them succeed in life. “This platform is not just about beauty. It is to build confidence, learn our culture, gain job-ready skills, and empower the youth,” she stated.
Queen Tiwaa made these remarks during the audition of Miss Manso 2025, which was held at the New York City Hotel in Manso Akwasiso in the Amansie South District. Seventeen contestants showed up in African print tops, black jeans, and heels. All passed the initial selection, and organizers are encouraging more young women to take part in the initiative.
Sharing her personal journey, Queen Tiwaa recounted how beauty pageants shaped her life. She was crowned Miss Kumasi in 2018 and placed first runner-up in Miss Golden Stool 2019. “What I learned from those pageants has helped me to give back to my community through this platform,” she said.
Addressing misconceptions surrounding pageantry, she urged the Ministry of Culture to support such programs and help change negative public perceptions.
“People assume that beauty pageants are corrupt, and leaders take advantage of contestants. I had the same perception until I joined. It’s not true, and it’s time we change that mindset,” she noted.
Queen Tiwaa ended her remarks by calling on Ghanaian leaders to invest in reality shows and pageants, stressing their broader social value. “It’s not just about beauty or entertainment. It’s about raising confident, skilled, and culturally aware young women,” she emphasized.
Direct Relief has applauded Breast Care International (BCI) and the Peace and Love Hospitals for being one of their trusted partners in medical distribution globally.
Over the years, Direct Relief has supplied medicines and medical equipment to hospitals in need across various regions of Ghana.
These donations, facilitated through a Memorandum of Understanding, aim to provide free medication to patients in need, particularly those suffering from breast cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and other non-communicable diseases.
Hospitals benefiting from this initiative include Tafo Government Hospital, Kokofu Hospital, Ankaase Government Hospital, Bunkurugu Yooyo Government Hospital, Trinity Hospital, Holy Family Hospital, and Ankaful CHPS Compound, among many others.
Direct Relief is a leading humanitarian organization that delivers medical aid to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty, disaster, and conflict in 92 countries worldwide.
On her first visit to Ghana, Amy Weaver, the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Direct Relief, led a delegation from the organization’s headquarters in the USA.
During her visit, she toured several beneficiary facilities, accompanied by Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, the CEO of the Peace and Love Hospitals who doubles as president of BCI, and her team.
After visiting Kokofu and Tafo Government Hospitals, Weaver expressed her satisfaction with the efforts of BCI and the Peace and Love Hospital in ensuring that medical supplies reach the right facilities.
She mentioned that she had heard a lot about Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai and the fantastic work that the BCI team has been doing. This inspired her decision to visit Ghana as her first country.
“I’m very satisfied with what I’ve seen. I took over as CEO just two months ago, and from my very first day, I started hearing about Breast Care International and Ghana. We work in 92 countries, and this is my first trip; I chose Ghana as the first country I was coming to, that’s because of what I’ve seen here on the ground with our partners, BCI,” she said.
She further noted that, Ghana is making significant strides in the fight against breast cancer, but she believes that early detection through regular screenings is crucial for addressing the disease among young girls, their mothers, and grandmothers.
Weaver also pointed out that, Direct Relief has been active in Ghana for decades, collaborating with facilities such as Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, and they intend to strengthen their partnership with the medical community in Ghana.
Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai expressed gratitude to the CEO of Direct Relief and her team for selecting Ghana as the first country to visit among over 90 others.
After supplying tens of thousands of medicines and medical equipment to Ghana since 2013, Dr. Addai remarked that it was crucial for the team to witness the essential work being done in the hospitals they support.
“Everywhere, we’ve been to, the people have shown their appreciation, and it means that whatever we’re getting from Direct Relief is so important and so much appreciated by all of us. This is a way to help our needy patients because these important medications are beyond the reach of a lot of our patients,” she stated.
Dr. Addai stressed the importance of building stronger ties with Direct Relief to secure additional support for expanding services to other facilities in critical need across the country.
Managers of some beneficiary hospitals lauded Direct Relief for their commitment to alleviating the challenges faced by health facilities and patients in Ghana.
The team also engaged with female students at Ejisuman Senior High School, the Chief of Kokofu, and some breast cancer survivors in the Ashanti Region.
