Author: Rebecca Eson

Former Ghana international Han Adu Sarpei has called on fans to avoid comparisons between the current Black Stars squad and the celebrated 2010 team that reached the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup. Following Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 tournament, expectations among supporters have risen sharply, with many hoping the team can surpass the historic milestone achieved in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. However, Adu Sarpei, who was part of that 2010 squad, believes such comparisons are misplaced, stressing that the two teams are fundamentally different in composition and context. He noted that the 2010 team benefited from a strong…

Nigeria’s parliament has approved a revised 2026 national budget of 68.30 trillion naira (approximately $49.4 billion), following a request by Bola Tinubu to adjust the original proposal submitted late last year. The initial budget, presented in December, stood at 58.47 trillion naira and was designed to consolidate ongoing economic reforms and accelerate growth. However, lawmakers endorsed a higher figure to accommodate additional fiscal priorities. According to parliamentary leaders, the increase is intended to cover outstanding capital projects carried over from previous budget cycles, ensuring that unresolved financial obligations do not weigh on the 2026 fiscal programme. The approval comes as…

Electricity consumers across Ghana are raising growing concerns over billing practices by the Electricity Company of Ghana, with many questioning the accuracy of charges that appear inconsistent with actual usage. One recent case highlights the depth of frustration among customers. Over a three-month period, a consumer significantly reduced electricity consumption in his household. With his family away and the home largely unoccupied, daily usage was kept to a minimum. Despite these efforts, he received identical bills each month. In a further attempt to eliminate reliance on grid power, the consumer installed a solar hybrid system. However, even after transitioning to…

The third edition of the Democracy Cup has been officially launched at Parliament House in Accra, marking the start of activities for this year’s event. In a significant development, the main ceremony will, for the first time, be held in Kumasi on August 30, with organisers introducing a broader range of activities to increase the competition’s impact and national appeal. The launch brought together parliamentarians, members of the diplomatic community, sponsors, supporters’ groups, and former footballers, reflecting the event’s growing importance. Speakers at the ceremony highlighted the role of the Democracy Cup in promoting inclusion, national unity, and youth engagement.…

Airline ticket prices for both domestic and international travel are set to increase as carriers begin implementing the government’s Airport Infrastructure Development Levy. The new charges are expected to drive up fares across all routes. Domestic passengers will pay an additional GH¢100 for flights within Ghana, while regional travellers will face an extra $30 for one-way tickets and $70 for return journeys. For international travel, passengers will incur a $50 surcharge on one-way tickets and $100 on return fares. Government officials say the levy is aimed at addressing critical infrastructure gaps within the aviation sector. Revenue generated will support key…

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has issued a strong warning to the government, calling for the removal of taxes on petroleum products within two days or risk a nationwide increase in transport fares. The union says the recent surge in fuel prices is placing significant pressure on transport operators, making current fare levels unsustainable. Deputy Public Relations Officer Samuel Amoah indicated that failure by the government to intervene could compel operators to adjust fares to reflect rising operational costs. “We have given the government a short window to address the situation. If nothing is done, we will have…

Some Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have begun increasing fuel prices ahead of the official April 1, 2026, pricing window, following the introduction of new minimum price thresholds by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). Leading industry player GOIL has already adjusted its pump prices, with petrol rising from GH¢12.24 to GH¢13.30 per litre, while diesel has increased from GH¢15.69 to GH¢17.10 per litre. The company attributed the changes to the newly announced price floor, despite the official pricing window running from April 1 to April 15. Similarly, Star Oil has revised its prices upward. Petrol now sells at GH¢13.49 per litre,…

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has announced plans by the government to sponsor approximately 800 supporters to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to the Minister, the estimated cost per supporter is $9,250, covering airfare, accommodation, and local transportation throughout the tournament. He noted that the high cost has informed the decision to limit the number of beneficiaries. “The cost is high, so we are considering a cap of about 800 supporters. The Supporters’ Union is large, and it would not be feasible to cater for everyone,” he explained. Mr. Adams added that while the government will…

The Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has commended the upcoming Gomoa Easter Carnival, describing it as a strategic initiative to promote tourism and stimulate economic activity within the Gomoa enclave. The event, spearheaded by the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng, aims to deliver a vibrant blend of arts, culture, and entertainment during the Easter festivities, while showcasing the heritage and economic potential of the area. Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Mr. Afenyo-Markin noted that the initiative would significantly benefit local businesses by attracting visitors and increasing commercial activity. He drew parallels with…

The President of the Ghana Institute of Architects, Tony Asare, has called for immediate and decisive action to safeguard lives following the recent building collapse in Accra Newtown, warning that Ghana is failing to prioritise public safety. He described the incident as a reflection of deep-rooted challenges within the construction sector, citing weak enforcement of regulations, inadequate oversight, and lapses in professional standards. “This country must take the safety of its people seriously,” he stressed, expressing frustration over recurring incidents and what he sees as a lack of meaningful change despite repeated warnings over the years. Mr. Asare questioned whether…