AGP Executive Report

Mining Regulation Push: Former Lands Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor calls for an independent, law-backed body to enforce mining rules and curb galamsey, saying enforcement has been repeatedly weakened by politics. Football Transfers: Asante Kotoko re-signs left-back Umar Ali (to 2028) and midfielder Richard Boadu returns (to 2028), as the club ramps up for the Democracy Cup showdown. AI Governance & Cybersecurity: Dr. Samuel Boateng launches “Beyond Breach: Where AI Meets Governance,” urging practical AI governance models for Africa and beyond. Security & Preparedness: WAANSA Ghana praises IGP Yohuno’s policing reforms, while the Ghana Armed Forces begin a three-day joint tabletop exercise to improve coordination against emerging threats. Public Health & Environment: A Ghana study suggests foods like oranges, sardines and eggs may help street vendors cope with air-pollution damage; Zoomlion starts regional disinfection in Northern Ghana; and residents warn Ankobra Bridge could become a disaster if repairs are delayed. Immigration & Borders: A study links extortion at border posts and lack of documents to the use of unapproved routes, urging border management to address root causes. Energy & Investment: Government launches an independent review of the electricity grid; Ghana moves to fully operationalise the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act by 2027; and GIPA sets up a focal persons network to speed up investor concerns. Humanitarian Relief: DirectAid delivers flood relief to Alajo and plans support for about 1,500 families.

Galamsey & Minerals Governance: NPP organiser Henry Nana Boakye accused GoldBod of worsening illegal mining by failing to trace whether purchased gold comes from licensed sources, saying the crisis is now “worse” and linking the issue to government mismanagement. Mining Regulation Upgrade: Government commissioned a modern Minerals Commission office complex in Kumasi to bring regulatory services closer to Ashanti miners, while also moving to review the Minerals and Mining Act to strengthen oversight. Roads & Jobs: Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Frank Amoakohene met stakeholders to unblock the Konongo–Juaso Bypass Road after compensation disputes stalled the contractor; Roads Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza also inspected major projects across the region. Fisheries Sustainability: Fisheries Minister Emelia Arthur called for stronger collaboration among institutions, communities and traditional authorities to protect marine resources and improve compliance in small-scale fishing. Heritage & Tourism: Ghana explores deeper Ghana–Korea and Denmark support for UNESCO heritage restoration, including Osu Castle, with calls for people-to-people exchanges beyond funding. Democracy Cup & Security: Police received the Democracy Cup trophy ahead of the Kotoko–Hearts of Oak clash, with IGP Yohuno pledging security and peace. Workplace Safety: Labour introduced the National Workplace Compliance and Safety Management System to modernise inspections and reduce workplace accidents. Politics & Defamation: Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin sued GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi and others over “extortionist” claims, as calls grew for him to step aside while the case runs. Sports Transfers: Asante Kotoko signed left-back Umar Ali on a two-year deal; Ghana midfielder Kwasi Sibo returned to Accra after a $10m move to Libyan champions Al-Swehly.

Legal Showdown: MTN says Clydestone’s 20-year-old claim over alleged unauthorised mobile money intellectual property use is “frivolous,” adding it made no provisions and will defend the case in court. Health Regulation: President Mahama opened the 28th AMCOA conference, urging stronger, Africa-led medical regulation as AI expands online consultations and universal health coverage goals. Flood Response: Work has started to reclaim the Lafa water retention basin in Mallam, with the 48 Engineer Regiment clearing waste, dredging silt and demolishing illegal structures to curb repeat flooding. Road Safety Enforcement: From September 2026, routine MTTD roadside checks will end as digital cameras and devices detect and issue electronic notices for 47+ offences. Economy & Markets: Producer inflation rose to 4.0% in July; investors heavily favoured the 364-day Treasury Bill at the latest auction. Mining & Jobs: Mineworkers’ Union wants contract mining directives suspended over precarious employment, while government moves to review the Minerals and Mining Act to tighten regulation. Politics & Justice: The OSP will assess extortion allegations involving GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi and Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin, who says he will submit to any investigation and has filed defamation suits. Sports & Culture: Kotoko and Hearts face off in the Democracy Cup as new coaches get their first big test; Ghana’s Bisa Kdei ramps up ahead of his December “The Convention.”

Minority Leadership Row: Nhyiaeso MP Dr. Stephen Amoah “Sticka” urged NPP Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo‑Markin to stay put despite extortion allegations, saying removing him won’t help oversight and calling the attacks politically motivated. GoldBod/BoG Loss Debate: NPP communicator Kwasi Kwarteng said even if extortion claims are true, they should not distract from the core question of whether the reported $1.7bn Domestic Gold Purchase Programme losses happened; Minority MPs also renewed calls for GoldBod to reconcile IMF figures with its audited accounts. Flood Aftermath: Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak updated that June 29 floods affected 91,989 people across seven regions and killed 39, with Greater Accra hardest hit. Public Health Response: Zoomlion began disinfection and disinfestation across Greater Accra after the floods, targeting markets, schools, dumpsites and public latrines to curb post-flood disease risks. 24-Hour Economy Push: Government says Ghana will establish a pharmaceutical industrial park in Shai-Osudoku under the 24-hour economy drive, with land identified and pre-feasibility studies done. Security Focus: Defence Minister Kenneth Adjei called for stronger inter-agency and regional cooperation to tackle threats from cybercrime to illicit arms trafficking. Parliament Resumes: Speaker Bagbin recalled Parliament for an emergency sitting from Aug. 24–28 to handle urgent business. Aviation Safety Funding: GMet warned of funding challenges, alleging GCAA withholds statutory payments needed to maintain weather equipment. Sports & Culture: Ghana won the second Onga Jollof Battle in Accra; Asante Kotoko signed Congolese defender Aristote Ntangu Tamuzi; and Rev. Wengam was re-elected AG Ghana General Superintendent.

Nuclear Power Push: The Association of Ghana Industries says Ghana’s nuclear programme must be treated as a strategic national project, calling for faster movement from preparation to construction readiness and a coordinated financing plan. Public Health Preparedness: The Ghana Health Service has launched five PHEOC documents and a roadmap to strengthen emergency response nationwide. Roads & Infrastructure: The Offinso–Anomangye road widening in Ashanti is expected to be completed and handed over by October 31, 2027, though compensation delays and right-of-way obstructions are slowing progress. Power & Safety: GRIDCo has restored supply after replacing a damaged tower on the Tema–Achimota line and reiterated a September 12 deadline for anyone encroaching on transmission line right-of-way to vacate. Policing Upgrade: The Interior Minister says over 700 digital enrolment stations will be deployed nationwide by end-2026 to boost intelligence-led policing. Housing & Homeownership: The Republic Bank–JoyNews Habitat Fair Mini Clinic ends at Achimota, helping Ghanaians explore housing options, financing and home improvement. Sports & Youth: NSMQ 2026 continues with Accra High snatching a One-Eighth ticket from Sunyani SHS in a final-round twist, while Holy Child School returns to the championship stage after a strong win.

Power Supply Disruption: GRIDCo says a 15-hour outage is planned for Sunday, Aug. 23, from 3:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. to replace a transmission tower damaged by a tanker explosion at Ashaiman on the 161kV Tema–Achimota line, affecting parts of Accra West (James Town, Mamprobi, Chorkor, Kaneshie, Okaishie, Agbogbloshie, Adabraka, Ridge, Tesano, Alajo, Asylum Down and others) and Accra East (Nima, Kanda, Kokomlemle, Circle, Madina, Okponglo, Cantonments, Osu Oxford Street and adjoining areas). GoldBod Row: Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s GoldBod controversy continues, with an Akwatia MP questioning why other Minority MPs are not joining the debate as GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi rejects the alleged $1.7bn loss claims. 24-Hour Economy Push: Government plans a pharmaceutical industrial park in Shai-Osudoku (about 2,000 acres) to build an ecosystem for medicine, medical devices, herbal production, and R&D, with roads, power, water and effluent treatment. Utility Regulation Upgrade: PURC commissions a new head office in Accra to strengthen oversight and consumer protection across electricity, water and gas. Sports & Youth: Asante Kotoko wrap Accra training ahead of the new season; Ghana’s women’s teams learn FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 playoff opponents (Ghana vs Ecuador, South Africa vs Uzbekistan) and NSMQ continues with schools advancing to the one-eighth stage.

Energy Regulation & Power Sector: PURC has inaugurated a new Head Office complex in Accra, saying it will boost consumer services and deeper oversight, supported by improved cash flow under the Cash Waterfall Mechanism. Power Disruption in Accra: GRIDCo says a 15-hour outage is set for Sunday (3 a.m. to 6 p.m.) to replace a transmission tower damaged in a tanker explosion, affecting parts of Accra West and East. Industry & Jobs: VALCO is moving beyond primary aluminium with a continuous casting and rolling mill to supply aluminium rods for Ghana’s cable industry, cutting import dependence. Housing Push: The JoyNews-Republic Bank Habitat Fair 2026 reaches its final day today at Achimota, offering a last chance for homebuyers and investors to explore financing and construction options. Mining Revival: The Ghana Chamber of Mines backs a 12-month roadmap to revive Adamus Resources through a joint management team, calling it a positive signal for investor confidence. Roads Update: The Accra-Kumasi Expressway is nearing Kumasi, with less than 20km of clearing work remaining, Roads Minister says. Football Development: GFA and FIFA will host a two-day Amateur Football Environment Analysis programme in Accra starting Aug 25. Sports Abroad: Thomas Partey makes his Saudi Pro League debut for Al Shabab, while David Oduro joins Ligue 2 side Annecy on loan. Health & Research: PharmaVax Ghana has awarded €2m for eight vaccine and pharma innovation projects, including AI-linked malaria and Mpox work. Church Leadership: Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam is re-elected General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, with nearly 90% of votes.

Power & Energy: Energy Minister Dr John Abdulai Jinapor says Ghana’s recent nationwide outages stem from a fragile temporary Akosombo control setup after an April fire, adding that the original control system should be restored by September 2026; meanwhile GRIDCo warns of Sunday (Aug 23) power interruptions in parts of Greater Accra to replace a damaged Tema–Achimota 161kV transmission tower after a tanker explosion. Economy & Investment: Bank of Ghana Governor reports renewed investor confidence after Ghana recorded about US$2.61bn in new investment across 253 projects in 2025; separate coverage says Russia-Ghana economic ties have entered a new phase with trade now above US$800m. Cocoa & Jobs: Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) launches a 24-hour operational model—Offload 24, Load 24 and Export 24—to speed cocoa logistics under the 24-Hour Economy push. Governance & Rights: Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak orders police to crush vigilantism and illegal self-defence groups. Health & Social Support: Free Primary Healthcare rolls out in Northern Region, starting with underserved districts, while HRRG honours GAMA-SWP sanitation leader Ing. Dr George Asiedu with a Global RightsShield award. Sports & Youth: NSMQ 2026 continues with multiple schools booking one-eighth spots, and FC Annecy signs Ghana left-back David Oduro to Ligue 2. Business: SIC Insurance doubles dividend to GH¢20m; PharmaVax Ghana grants €2m to eight projects to boost local vaccine and medicine innovation.

Health Reset in the North: The Northern Regional Minister has launched Free Primary Healthcare in Tamale, promising free services at CHPS compounds, health centres and polyclinics from 2026, with full coverage expected by 2028. Utilities & Consumer Protection: Energy Minister Dr John Jinapor commissioned a new PURC head office in Accra, saying it will strengthen regulation of electricity, water and gas and speed up complaint resolution. Pensioners’ Talent Pool: A CREX study says 96% of Ghanaian pensioners are willing to work beyond retirement age, but most say they lack a platform to offer their skills. Cocoa Logistics Boost: CMC has rolled out a 24-hour cocoa operations model—Offload 24, Load 24 and Export 24—to cut delays and support the 24-hour economy. Flood Health Measures: Zoomlion is running fumigation and disinfection across 14 Western Region MMDAs after floods, targeting mosquito-breeding and disease risks. Labour Shock: Organised labour mourns the death of Dr Isaac Bampoe Addo, Executive Secretary of CLOGSAG. Data Protection Push: The Data Protection Commission has acquired vehicles to expand enforcement nationwide and set up regional offices. Sports & Youth: NSMQ 2026 continues with Tamale SHS, Labone SHS and Winneba Secondary School advancing to the one-eighth stage.

FDI Boost: Ghana pulled in US$2.62bn FDI in 2025, up from US$651.7m in 2024, with 254 projects expected to create 18,748 jobs—Bank of Ghana data shows 95.4% of inflows came from reinvested earnings. Road Integrity: Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Agbodza says government may refer two quantity surveyors to EOCO over alleged inflated compensation claims that could delay projects. Transport Upgrade: The Accra–Tema Motorway reconstruction is at 50% completion, with a planned 10-lane dual carriageway and new footbridges. Housing Push: President Mahama says the first 700 Saglemi units will be completed by March 2027, with 1,500 targeted by end-2027. Youth, Culture & Learning: The 23rd Ghana International Book Fair opens Aug 27–30, while KNUST secures a US$45,864 grant to strengthen AI education and research. Health & Safety: KATH and partners offer free eye screening and surgeries nationwide; FDA reports processing 24,446 product applications in 2025 and approving 20,205. Sports: Ghana’s badminton team wins gold, silver and two bronze medals—its best Olympic qualifying haul in 64 years.

Digital Inclusion: NCA boss Rev. Ing. Edmund Fianko urged Ghanaian journalists to help close the digital divide, saying the NCA is pushing new telecom sites and upgrades to improve coverage and speeds nationwide. Youth & Jobs: Youth Development Minister George Opare Addo chaired the maiden National Youth Forum 2026, calling on young people to share challenges and propose solutions on jobs, skills and entrepreneurship. Court Watch: Accra High Court ordered restrictions on Zeepay Ghana Limited’s management and assets pending a winding-up petition, protecting creditors and depositors. Public Safety & Morality: Youth Employment Agency CEO Malik Basintale warned young people against recording intimate moments, saying leaked videos can ruin lives. Energy Update: Energy Minister Dr John Abdulai Jinapor explained the latest nationwide outage as linked to the temporary control system at Akosombo, with a permanent control room expected in September. Governance & Corruption: GACC said corruption risks remain despite 2025 anti-corruption gains, warning governance systems are still vulnerable. Health & Tech: Internet Society Ghana called for disability-friendly design from the start of digital platform development. Sports: Asante Kotoko’s Eric Tinkler said the Democracy Cup clash is a key final test before the new season. Football Transfers: Prince Badu and Mohammed Camara both completed moves to Ethiopian clubs after leaving Kotoko.

Youth Football Pathway: Ghana FA president Kurt Okraku says the “Power to the Youth” plan will create a structured route for talented players from U-13 to U-19, including a planned U-19 league pilot with clubs and accredited academies. National Youth Forum: Youth Minister George Opare Addo told young Ghanaians government will act on issues raised at the National Youth Forum, urging honest feedback beyond speeches. GoldBod Row: Parliament’s Minority and GoldBod are locked in a fresh fight over claims of a GH¢22bn loss; GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi denies incomplete disclosure to the Auditor-General and says the 2025 accounts show a GH¢5.44bn surplus. Power Outage: GRIDCo says a major fault on the Akosombo–Volta transmission line triggered the nationwide outage, with restoration ongoing and some areas already back on. Media Ethics in Digital Age: NCA DG Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko urges journalists to protect public trust through accuracy and verification as digital media grows. Food Safety Alert: CSIR-WRI research warns microplastics are found in fish, urging caution as fish gills and guts may pose health risks. Mental Health Crackdown: The Mental Health Authority moves to shut a Kumasi spiritual centre housing over 2,000 patients after licence expiry and alleged harmful restraints. Blue Economy Bill: Government continues reviewing the Blue Economy Commission Bill ahead of wider consultation and submission to Parliament. GFA Investments: GFA pledges GHS 1.4m yearly for elite academies and more support for Colts football, plus additional buses for clubs.

Nuclear Power Push: Government says Ghana is ready to adopt nuclear power, stressing Phase Two readiness and the need to build human capacity alongside infrastructure, as officials call for stronger international nuclear cooperation. Energy & Economy: The 24-Hour Economy Secretariat says the proposed 24-hour markets are not under its control and will seek removal from lawsuits, while also warning the programme won’t deliver overnight industrialisation. Mining & Health: At the National Mining Dialogue, the GMTF administrator challenged mining firms to invest in healthcare in host communities—“money cannot buy time at 2AM”—as Ga Mantse urged mining to protect livelihoods and restore land beyond mine closure. Media Governance: The NMC reconstituted boards of state media organisations including GNA, GBC, GCGL and New Times, appointing new chairpersons. Road Safety: Six injured after a Toyota Corolla plunged into the Birim River on the Accra–Kumasi highway; investigations continue. Sports & Youth: Asante Kotoko continue squad strengthening with new signings and plans for more players, while youth leaders are set to shape policy through the National Youth Forum.

Sports Diplomacy & Development: The Ghana Olympic Committee has pledged support to the newly elected Ghana Taekwondo Federation leadership, urging closer collaboration to boost athlete performance ahead of major events. Grassroots Taekwondo Push: The Korean Embassy and GTF plan deeper cooperation, including awareness campaigns in five regions and introducing taekwondo in basic and second-cycle schools. Football Update: Hearts of Oak says FIFA has lifted its transfer ban after it fully settled former coach Rene Hiddink’s outstanding dues, clearing the way to register players. Economy & Debt: Government has paid GH¢10.816b to bondholders under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme, bringing total payments since 2025 to GH¢41.36b. Tax Drive: GRA targets GH¢310b in tax revenue by 2028, aiming to double 2024 collections without new tax rates. GoldBod Row: GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi rejects Minority claims of $1.7b losses, citing audited accounts showing a GH¢5.4b surplus; Minority demands probe. Road Safety: Police warn commercial drivers and operators against charging above approved fares and urge the public to familiarise themselves with the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026. Community & Disaster Readiness: PAHCCDEM trains Alajo residents on disaster risk reduction and management. Marathon Launch: Tampico Accra Inter-City Marathon officially launched for Oct 10, targeting 2,000+ runners with GH¢100 registration.

Mining Reforms & Local Benefits: Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah says new mining legislative reforms will overhaul Ghana’s mining laws, cut maximum lease terms from 30 to 20 years, and decentralise licensing through district mining committees, while officials and traditional leaders at the National Mining Dialogue push for mining to improve host communities’ lives beyond national figures. Galamsey Crackdown: The Ghana Journalists Association urges the fight against illegal mining to target financiers, equipment suppliers and gold buyers—not just miners—while calling for fact-based reporting. Public Safety—Bullion Vehicles: The Interior Ministry reaffirms tighter regulation of Armoured Bullion Vehicles to protect cash-in-transit operations after past armed attacks. Public Health Alarm: Experts warn that many women take antibiotics monthly after menstruation, fuelling antimicrobial resistance, with similar misinformation reported across West Africa. Youth Engagement: Government sets the National Youth Forum 2026 for Aug. 19 to hear young people on jobs, skills and entrepreneurship. Energy & Services: ECG reports GH¢710,965 spent on meter and infrastructure replacements in Greater Accra, with most complaints resolved. Politics: An APL voter survey says NPP’s Dr Mahamudu Bawumia leads seven NDC contenders in hypothetical 2028 match-ups, though many voters remain undecided. Accra Fire Incident: A fire at Spintex’s Frimpomaa Estate destroyed about 27 wooden structures.

Aviation & Tourism: Ibom Air is set for its third Airbus A220-300 delivery after a pre-delivery inspection in Quebec, with the new jet expected to enter service before year-end—boosting capacity and connectivity for Akwa Ibom’s “Destination Akwa Ibom” push. Public Safety: Ghana National Fire Service rescued a man trapped after a Suhum Niifio crash on the Accra–Kumasi highway and salvaged GH¢50,000 and valuables; officials blamed wrongful overtaking. Religious Tolerance: Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak reaffirmed government neutrality and urged calm after a pastor-imam altercation, saying crime will be treated as crime. Security & Borders: NACOC boss called for more investment in intelligence, forensics and technology to strengthen border security and fight organised crime. Finance & Cybersecurity: Bank of Ghana urged banks to use digital transaction data to close a $4.8bn SME credit gap and said it will strengthen cybersecurity support for smaller institutions. Health Milestone: Aisha Hospital in Tamale delivered the first IVF baby in Northern Ghana and commissioned a new dialysis unit. Politics: NPP’s Dr Bawumia says the party’s goal is winning power in 2028 as regional executives call on him. Sports: FIFA imposed a registration ban on Karela United over unpaid debt to player Sana Camara. Food Safety: FDA warned traders against using chemicals to force-ripen plantain and other fruits, saying misuse can leave harmful residues. Mining Governance: Lands Minister Armah-Kofi Buah says proposed mining law reforms will give communities a stronger say through district mining committees.