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Coca-Cola to Record $1 Billion Charge After Sale of African Bottling Stake

By
Ivy Hollys
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Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola has said it will take an impairment charge of about $1 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025 following the sale of part of its ownership in African bottling operations. The company made the announcement in a regulatory filing on Thursday.

Following the news, Coca-Cola’s shares fell about 1% during late-afternoon trading.

Earlier this week, Switzerland-based Coca-Cola HBC agreed to purchase a 75% stake in Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) for $2.6 billion. The deal includes Coca-Cola’s nearly 42% stake and the entire stake owned by Gutsche Family Investments, valuing CCBA at around $3.4 billion.

The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Once finalized, Coca-Cola HBC will become the world’s second-largest Coca-Cola bottler by volume, after Coca-Cola FEMSA. The deal will also expand its operations across 14 African markets.

Coca-Cola HBC said the acquisition will help it tap into the continent’s growing beverage demand, driven largely by younger consumers. The move is also expected to help the company manage rising costs and trade challenges, including potential U.S. tariffs.

As part of the agreement, Coca-Cola HBC plans to seek a secondary listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The company will also hold an option to buy Coca-Cola’s remaining 25% stake in CCBA within six years after the deal closes.

Meanwhile, Coca-Cola reported strong third-quarter earnings earlier this week, supported by higher demand for its zero-sugar drinks and Fairlife brand in the United States, as well as increased soda sales in international markets.

Love vs. Money: Orange Sunrise Listeners Weigh In

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Do you prioritize love or money in marriage?

This morning’s discussion on Orange Sunrise took a thought-provoking turn as guest host Rhodalin Apenteng Aku, sitting in for Alpha Ali, posed a question that stirred passionate responses: “Is money or age the deciding factor when choosing a life partner?”

Marriage, as a legally recognized union, means different things to different people. While some listeners emphasized love and character as the foundation of a lasting relationship, others argued that financial stability plays a crucial role in sustaining one.

Several callers shared that money eases the pressures of daily life, suggesting that financial struggles often strain even the strongest bonds. One listener remarked, “It’s better to cry in a Lamborghini,” a popular phrase that sparked laughter but also underscored the belief that wealth can cushion emotional hardships.

Others countered that good character and emotional compatibility outweigh material wealth. They cited examples of fulfilling relationships with partners who lacked financial means but offered respect, support, and happiness.

Still, many agreed that a balance of both character and financial readiness is ideal. One caller shared a personal experience of dating a man with potential but no money. Her hopes of building a future together were dashed when he became abusive, blaming his frustrations on his financial situation. She concluded firmly, “I’d rather be with someone who already has money than struggle and suffer.”

The conversation naturally shifted to the trending topic of Nigerian actress Regina Daniels’ marriage, which has sparked debate over age gaps and financial motives. Listeners questioned whether young women marrying older, wealthy men are driven by love or ulterior motives, reigniting the age-old debate on romance versus security.

As the show wrapped up, one thing was clear: the question of what truly matters in choosing a life partner, love, money, or age, remains deeply personal and complex. And on Orange Sunrise, it’s a conversation that’s far from over.

Parliament Pays Tribute to Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Parliament has expressed deep sadness over the death of former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. The House described her passing as a major loss to Ghana.

A statement issued on Thursday, October 23, and signed by the Director of Media Relations, David Sebastian Damoah, confirmed the Speaker and Members of Parliament were shocked by the news.

“Parliament extends its deepest condolences to the immediate family and the general citizenry. Her life of service and dedication to our nation will remain a guiding light for generations to come,”
the statement read.

The House praised her lifelong commitment to national development. It noted her work in championing the rights of women and children, promoting girl-child education, and supporting health and community projects.

“She was passionate in her support of women and children, especially girl education. She also made immense contributions in health and community development, and championed the rights and welfare of the vulnerable. Her warmth and commitment to national service will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude,”
it added.

Parliament adjourned Thursday’s sitting in her honour. The gesture reflects the nation’s respect and appreciation for her leadership and service.

Gov’t Revokes 278 Small-Scale Mining Licenses

By
Ivy Hollys
-
mining
Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources logo

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has revoked 278 small-scale mining licenses across the country for breaching mining regulations and operating with expired permits.

The announcement was made by the Ministry’s Spokesperson and Media Relations Officer, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, in a Facebook post on Thursday, October 23. He said the move is part of the government’s renewed effort to bring order and accountability to the small-scale mining sector.

According to Mr. Schandorf, the affected operators either failed to meet environmental and safety standards or continued mining after their licenses had expired.

The decision, led by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, is part of ongoing efforts to restore discipline in the sector. It also reflects the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, which has caused severe environmental damage and polluted water bodies across the country.

The ministry said the revocation of the licenses is a key step toward building a more sustainable and responsible mining industry. It also serves as a warning to operators who disregard environmental laws and licensing procedures.

This action forms part of a broader government strategy to reform Ghana’s small-scale mining sector and ensure that it contributes to national development while protecting the environment.

President Declares Three Days of National Mourning for Former First Lady

By
Ivy Hollys
-

President John Dramani Mahama has declared three days of national mourning to honour the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings.

The mourning period will begin on Friday, October 24, and end on Sunday, October 26, 2025.

A statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, announced the decision. It said all national flags will fly at half-mast during the period. The directive applies to public buildings, government offices, and Ghana’s diplomatic missions abroad.

According to the statement, the gesture is to honour Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings for her lifelong service to the nation. She was praised for her “dedication and commitment,” especially in advancing women’s rights, child welfare, and social progress.

“The Government extends its deepest condolences to the family, her children, and all who mourn this irreplaceable loss. May her soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement added.

Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings passed away on Thursday at the Ridge Hospital in Accra. She was 76 years old.

She was widely respected for her role in national development and women’s empowerment. As founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, she led several programmes to support women and children across Ghana.

Flags across the country have already been lowered in her honour. The nation has begun the mourning period as citizens reflect on her remarkable legacy.

Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings. Together, they shared a lifelong commitment to public service and national progress.

Suspect Breaks free From Ngleshie Amanfro Police Custody

By
Ivy Hollys
-
Ngleshie Amanfro Police Station
Ngleshie Amanfro Police Station

A suspected robbery gang leader has escaped from police custody at the Ngleshie Amanfro District Police Command in broad daylight. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, October 16, 2025, in full view of officers on duty.

The suspect, believed to be a Nigerian national, had been arrested earlier that morning alongside two others by a police patrol team. The suspects were handed over to Chief Inspector Dela Kumador and Constable Charles Tawiah at the station’s counter.

According to police sources, the gang leader was permitted to use the restroom without handcuffs or supervision. He reportedly used the opportunity to flee and remains at large.

The arrest followed a robbery operation led by Inspector Noble Essuman at Malam Junction around 4:00 a.m., after reports of traders being attacked enroute to the Volta Region. Officers arrived to find four men robbing the traders, with one wielding a pump-action gun while others searched through belongings. The robbers allegedly claimed the traders’ driver had damaged their Honda CR-V, prompting the confrontation.

During the operation, one suspect escaped with the firearm, but three others, including the gang leader, were apprehended. The suspects and the vehicle were transported to the police station, where the escape later occurred.

The remaining two suspects were arraigned before the Weija Circuit Court on Monday, October 20. Police have also arrested a car rental operator accused of leasing the Honda CR-V to the robbery suspects.

Investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to recapture the escaped suspect and identify other individuals linked to the crime.

Government to Build Six New Regional Hospitals – Health Minister

By
Ivy Hollys
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kwabena mintah akandoh
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that the government plans to build at least six new regional hospitals in areas that currently have none.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by leaders of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission, Mr. Akandoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery across the country. He said the government would continue all Agenda 111 projects started by the previous administration while also beginning construction of new regional hospitals within the next four years.

“If there’s a project that’s about 80 to 90 percent complete, it doesn’t make sense to abandon it,” he said. “We also have regions without regional hospitals, and that’s a separate project we’ll be taking on. Our goal is to build at least six regional hospitals in four years. It’s ambitious, but we are determined to do it.”

Mr. Akandoh also mentioned plans to work with mining companies to complete and manage hospitals in mining areas that are still under construction.

“We’re bringing in more partners, especially in mining communities. Some of the unfinished hospital projects in those areas will be handed over to mining companies to complete and operate, with government support,” he explained.

The minister said these efforts form part of the government’s broader goal to expand access to quality healthcare and strengthen the country’s health infrastructure.

Cabinet Orders Reversal of Renamed Public Universities

By
Ivy Hollys
-
Public universities

The Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has announced that Cabinet has directed all public universities in Ghana that were renamed under the Akufo-Addo administration to revert to their original names.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Bawku Central MP said a bill will soon be laid before the House to give legal backing to the decision.

“Mr Speaker, there has been a Cabinet directive to change the names of all the universities that were renamed after individuals back to their original names,” Mr Ayariga said. “A bill will be brought to this House to reverse all the name changes,” he added.

Several institutions were renamed during the Akufo-Addo administration to honour prominent national figures. These included the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Tarkwa, renamed the George Grant University of Mines and Technology; the Wa Campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS), renamed the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies; the Navrongo Campus of UDS, renamed the C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences; and the Ho Technical University, renamed the Ephraim Amu Technical University.

The renaming exercise faced strong criticism from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), which described it as politically motivated.

Once Parliament approves the new bill, the affected institutions will officially return to their original names. The move, according to government sources, aims to preserve the neutrality and historical identity of Ghana’s public universities

Mahama Swears In 37 New High Court Judges, Urges Integrity and Fairness

By
Ivy Hollys
-
President mahama launches Ghana e-visa portal today

President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in 37 new High Court judges, urging them to uphold justice, integrity, and fairness in their work.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Jubilee House in Accra on Thursday, October 23, 2025. In his address, President Mahama reminded the judges of their critical role in ensuring public confidence in the judicial system. He called on them to remain impartial, apply the law without fear or favour, and protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens.

“The effective administration of justice is central to Ghana’s democracy and economic stability,” President Mahama said. He emphasised that the judiciary’s independence and professionalism were vital for maintaining peace and promoting national development.

The President also commended Ghana’s judiciary for its strong commitment to gender balance and inclusion. He described it as a model of affirmative action that other arms of government should emulate.

“Even though I am the appointing authority, I want to commend the judiciary when it comes to affirmative action and gender. You are doing far better than the executive,” he stated.

President Mahama noted that recent judicial appointments, including those to the Court of Appeal, reflected significant female representation. “A short while ago, we swore in Appeal Court judges, and a good number almost the majority were women. Again, I see that women are well represented here in this batch of High Court judges,” he said.

He congratulated the new judges and encouraged them to serve with dedication and impartiality, stressing that their actions will shape public trust in the judiciary and strengthen the foundations of Ghana’s democracy.

Illegal Miners Invade Konkoma School Park, Endangering Pupils and Health Centre

By
Ivy Hollys
-
Miners threaten kokomba basic school

Illegal miners have taken over land meant for a school park at Konkoma in the Bosomtwe District of the Ashanti Region. The activity has left the area badly degraded and unsafe for residents.

The miners, in their search for gold, have dug dangerously close to the Konkoma D/A Basic School and the community health centre. These two public facilities serve as the main education and healthcare providers in the community.

Moreover, the land once used as a playground for pupils and a park for residents is now filled with open pits and loose soil. The mining site is located less than 100 meters from the school and health centre.

According to school authorities, the situation poses a major safety risk to pupils. The uncovered pits could cause serious accidents. In addition, stagnant water in the pits has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, worsening health conditions for patients at the nearby facility.

Assembly Member for the Konkoma Electoral Area, Stephen Abrokwah, described the situation as alarming. He therefore called for urgent action to protect lives and restore the affected land.

Meanwhile, officials from National Security have arrested some individuals believed to be involved in the illegal mining.

District Chief Executive for Bosomtwe, Engineer Abdullah Hamidu, has since begun a land reclamation exercise to restore the site. He assured residents that those responsible will face the full force of the law.

Furthermore, the Bosomtwe District Assembly is urging residents to support ongoing efforts to stop illegal mining. By doing so, the Assembly believes the community’s environment and public facilities can be protected for future generations.

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