02am28+00:00('Monday 2nd \2026f February 2026 02:24:57 AM')
7.1 C
London
Home Blog Page 37

Rome‑Jayden Owusu‑Oduro shines with clean sheet — but Otto Addo not calling him up yet

0

AZ Alkmaar goalkeeper Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro delivered a solid performance in the recent UEFA Europa Conference League match against Shelbourne, keeping a clean sheet and looking calm and confident as though returning from injury had never slowed him.  Many fans are now asking: if he can perform like this, what is preventing Ghana’s head coach Otto Addo from bringing him into the national team goal post?

img 0069
Rome‑Jayden Owusu‑Oduro shines with clean sheet — but Otto Addo not calling him up yet 2

Owusu-Oduro’s recent form

The 21-year-old shot-stopper remains first-choice at AZ Alkmaar, having recently signed a long-term contract extension through 2030.  His form has been promising: beyond this latest clean sheet, Owusu-Oduro has had strong outings in league and cup competitions, and even produced match-winning penalty saves to help his club reach the Dutch Cup final. 

Why Otto Addo may be holding off — for now

Despite being eligible to play for Ghana (his father is Ghanaian), Owusu-Oduro recently indicated that representing Ghana is not his immediate priority. He told reporters he was concentrating on helping the Netherlands U-21 side qualify for upcoming European youth tournaments.  This stance likely complicates any immediate call-up. For a player to be selected by Ghana, he must express willingness to commit — and currently, Owusu-Oduro seems focused elsewhere.

What the netizens are saying

Many fans have voiced frustration on social media: seeing a talented, in-form goalkeeper of Ghanaian descent excelling in Europe, they wonder why the senior national side doesn’t tap into that potential. Comments echo a common sentiment: “If he’s doing this in Europe, why not give him a chance with the Black Stars?”

Some argue that with the right encouragement from management — especially from the national goalkeeper coach — Ghana could benefit from integrating Owusu-Oduro early, building for future competitions like the 2026 World Cup. Others caution that forcing a national-team switch against a player’s expressed preference could backfire.

What needs to happen for a Ghana call-up

For Owusu-Oduro to realistically be considered for the senior squad under Otto Addo, the following need to align:

Owusu-Oduro must publicly declare interest in representing Ghana (i.e. reverse his previous stance). Ghana’s coaching and selection staff need to decide he fits the squad’s tactical and long-term plans — especially given existing options in goal. The decision must respect his dual-national eligibility and personal ambitions regarding the Netherlands youth system.

Given how well he’s playing, I believe it’s only a matter of time before the question resurfaces — but it ultimately depends on his willingness to switch allegiance and Ghana’s readiness to reach out.

Wrongfully Jailed: Taxi Driver Sentenced After Being Drugged and Car Later Recovered

0

A 37-year-old taxi driver, Kwadwo Owusu Appiah, is currently serving a four-year prison sentence for the alleged theft of the very taxi he was driving, a crime he has consistently denied.

According to a report by Crime Check Foundation, Kwadwo’s ordeal began during what appeared to be a routine trip. After picking up a passenger, he was offered a bottle of malt. Unbeknownst to him, the drink was allegedly laced with a substance that rendered him unconscious. When he eventually regained consciousness, both the passenger and the vehicle had disappeared.

img 0059
Wrongfully Jailed: Taxi Driver Sentenced After Being Drugged and Car Later Recovered 4

His wife, Ayarkwa Juliet, recounted the devastating event, explaining that her husband was simply working to provide for the family.

“He told me a passenger bought him malt, but after drinking it, he became dizzy and passed out. When he woke up, the car had vanished,” she said.

The vehicle, owned by Francis Attakora, was fitted with a tracker, but the device stopped functioning after the battery was reportedly disconnected by the thieves. In a troubling development, the police are said to have written Kwadwo’s statement for him, which unintentionally implicated him. Believing he had failed in his duty to protect the car, Kwadwo pleaded guilty in court, thinking it was the honourable thing to do.

Shockingly, on the same day he was sentenced, the tracking company informed the vehicle owner that the car had been sighted near Weija and was later located at a drinking spot in Madina. The owner has since retrieved the car and, upon realising Kwadwo’s innocence, expressed deep remorse.

The family is now appealing for urgent support to help secure Kwadwo’s release, stating that an innocent man remains behind bars for a crime he did not commit.

EVERY GHANAIAN NOW OWES GH¢ 19,560 — As Public Debt Hits GH¢ 684.6 BN

0

Ghana’s public debt has surged to GH¢ 684.6 billion as of September 2025. 

If one divides this debt equally among the country’s population, the result is that each Ghanaian “owes” about GH¢ 19,560. 

📈 Key Figures & Context

The rise to GH¢ 684.6 bn marks an increase of GH¢ 71.6 bn from the previous quarter.  In U.S. dollar terms, this debt is approximately US $55.1 billion.  As of September 2025, the debt represents about 48.9% of Ghana’s GDP. 

🔎 What the “Per-Citizen Debt” Means — And What It Doesn’t

The “GH¢ 19,560 per citizen” figure is a theoretical average, calculated by dividing total national debt by the total population.  This number does not reflect actual liability of every single Ghanaian (e.g. children, elderly, unemployed) — rather, it’s a statistical representation of burden per person if the debt were to be equally distributed. The per-person measure is often used to help the public visualise the scale of national debt — but it doesn’t imply that every citizen will be taxed individually for that exact amount.

img 0026
EVERY GHANAIAN NOW OWES GH¢ 19,560 — As Public Debt Hits GH¢ 684.6 BN 6

⚠️ Underlying Factors & Considerations

The increase has been driven largely by a spike in external debt during the third quarter of 2025.  The external debt component rose sharply, even though longer-term data shows significant reduction in external debt over longer periods.  Domestic debt has remained relatively stable, with only modest increases in the same period.  Despite the rise, authorities cite that headline debt remains lower than some previously reported peaks — but the per-capita framing underscores the widening debt burden on society.

📰 What It Means for Ghana — And the People

The headline per-citizen figure often resonates emotionally: it emphasises that each Ghanaian, in effect, carries part of the national debt burden. For the government, this serves as a pressure point: increasing public debt may raise public scrutiny, demand for accountability, and calls for fiscal prudence. For citizens — even if only symbolic — the number may influence perceptions of economic sustainability, inflation, public services, and future taxation or austerity measures. It could also affect investor confidence, currency valuation (the cedi), and future borrowing costs for Ghana.

Abena Little Shows Deep Sadness While Listening to “Nyame” by Daniel Jeddman — TikTok Moment Touches Thousands

0

Abena Little has captured the attention of social media after a TikTok video showed her visibly saddened while listening to “Nyame”, the powerful new inspirational song by Daniel Jeddman. In the video, she sits silently, eyes lowered, her expression heavy with emotion — the kind that speaks not through tears, but through stillness.

img 0002
Abena Little Shows Deep Sadness While Listening to “Nyame” by Daniel Jeddman — TikTok Moment Touches Thousands 8

With one hand gently placed over her chest, she takes a deep breath, appearing deeply moved by the music. Viewers say her reaction felt real, reflecting the quiet pain many people carry but rarely show.

🎵 “The song understands pain in a way people don’t,” Abena shared softly.

The word “Nyame”, meaning “God” in Twi, becomes more than just a song title. In that moment, it represents surrender, silent battles, and the inner prayer of those holding on to faith through hardship.

🌍 Why people worldwide connect with this moment

Ghanaians relate to her expression as many experience quiet struggles while relying on faith. Africans in the diaspora recognise the pain of distance and silent sacrifice. Global audiences see a universal human experience — one where music speaks when words fail.

📲 Social reactions

Social media users commented:

“You can feel her pain even without tears — her silence is loud.” “This is how most of us feel. Quiet sadness. Still trusting God.” “‘Nyame’ is not just a song; it’s the feeling we hide every day.”

Experts say that authentic emotional content is more likely to go viral, not because it is dramatic, but because it is relatable. Abena’s quiet moment felt human — and that’s why it resonated.

🎶 About the song “Nyame”

Daniel Jeddman’s “Nyame” delivers a calm yet impactful message about enduring life’s silent challenges through faith. The song’s gentle instrumentation and deep lyrical meaning make it less of a track and more of an emotional experience.

The impact going forward

“Nyame” is being shared in prayer videos, emotional reflections, and inspirational content. Abena’s reaction is being used as a symbol of unspoken struggles. Listeners are saying the song speaks directly to their soul — without needing words.

Abena Little didn’t cry. She simply felt. And sometimes, the most powerful expression is silence.

With “Nyame,” Daniel Jeddman has proven once again that music doesn’t need to be loud to be heard.

WATCH VIDEO on TikTok

Watch Official Music Video

Afua Asantewaa Secures Job in Canada, Focuses on Permanent Residency

0

Afua Asantewaa, the Ghanaian talent who once sought recognition from the Guinness World Records, has officially secured a job at Tim Hortons in Canada. She has decided not to return to Ghana, setting her sights on obtaining permanent residency and eventually Canadian citizenship.

img 9987
Afua Asantewaa Secures Job in Canada, Focuses on Permanent Residency 10

Despite earlier disappointments with Guinness World Records, Afua remains determined to build her future abroad. Her story serves as a lesson in resilience: when one door closes, advise yourself and keep moving forward. Success often comes to those willing to adapt and pursue opportunities beyond their comfort zone.

Viral Concert Attendee Declines Wendy Shay’s Support, Chooses Loyalty Instead

0

A young woman who recently went viral for her posture with male attendees during the Shay Concert has made headlines once again after appearing on a TikTok live session with award-winning artist Wendy Shay. During the live chat, Wendy Shay expressed admiration for her confidence and offered to support her, either by assisting with her career or providing capital to start a business.

img 9981
Viral Concert Attendee Declines Wendy Shay’s Support, Chooses Loyalty Instead 12

Surprisingly, the lady politely declined both offers. Instead, she stated that her greatest wish is simply to follow Wendy Shay wherever she goes, emphasizing her loyalty and admiration for the artist. The moment stirred mixed reactions online, with some praising her devotion and others urging her to accept the opportunity.

The interaction has sparked discussions across social media platforms, with fans applauding Wendy Shay’s willingness to uplift others and debating whether the young woman should reconsider the generous offer. The story continues to trend, highlighting the powerful influence of viral moments in shaping unexpected connections between celebrities and fans.

Breaking News: Coup in Guinea-Bissau — Military Seizes Power and Arrests President

0

Umaro Sissoco Embaló and his government have been deposed as the military declares “total control” of Guinea-Bissau in a sweeping takeover. 

⚠️ What Happened

On 26 November 2025, soldiers appeared on state television announcing they had taken “total control” over the country, citing political instability after a contested election.  They immediately suspended the electoral process, shut down all media outlets, closed land, air, and sea borders, and imposed an indefinite curfew.  Gunshots were reported earlier near key government locations — including the presidential palace, the election commission headquarters, and the interior ministry — as soldiers secured the premises.  The military formed a new governing body named the High Military Command for the Restoration of Order, which will run the country “until further notice.” 

Who Was Arrested

President Umaro Sissoco Embaló confirmed to media that he had been detained. He said the arrest occurred at his office inside the presidential palace.  Alongside Embaló, several top officials — including the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Biague Na Ntan, his deputy Mamadou Touré, and Interior Minister Botché Candé — were also reportedly detained.  The head of the electoral commission and other election-related officials were also reportedly arrested; their offices have been sealed off by the military. 

Context & What Led to the Coup

The takeover follows national elections held three days earlier (23 November 2025), in which both Embaló and his main rival claimed victory. The official provisional results were due to be announced imminently.  The military justified their intervention by alleging a plan to destabilize the country — including manipulation of election results, involvement of drug lords, and introduction of weapons intended to alter constitutional order.  Historically, Guinea-Bissau has seen a string of coups and attempted coups since its independence from Portugal in 1973; the 2025 takeover is the latest in that pattern. 

What’s Next / International Response

The newly self-appointed military command has declared control until further notice, suspending institutions and constitutional rule. With borders closed and media shut down, information remains limited. The international community is likely to respond — neighbouring countries and regional bodies may call for a return to constitutional order and democratic norms. The situation remains highly fluid.

img 9969
Breaking News: Coup in Guinea-Bissau — Military Seizes Power and Arrests President 14

From Classrooms to Crossroads: The Unemployment Challenge for Ghanaian Graduates

0

Ghana’s rising graduate unemployment has become a pressing national concern, as thousands of educated youths struggle to transition from academic achievement to meaningful employment. Despite education being seen as a secure gateway to financial stability, many Senior High School and university graduates face a harsh post-graduation reality—limited job opportunities and increasing frustration.

photo output 1 2
From Classrooms to Crossroads: The Unemployment Challenge for Ghanaian Graduates 17

Each year, students leave classrooms with high expectations, backed by years of sacrifice and heavy financial investment from their families. However, the formal job market fails to absorb the growing number of qualified graduates. Reports from the Ghana Statistical Service and the World Bank indicate that youth unemployment, particularly among fresh graduates, is significantly higher than the national average.

Experts cite multiple causes: a mismatch between academic curricula and industry needs, limited job creation in the formal sector, and an educational focus on theory over practical skills. Many institutions lack strong collaborations with industries, leaving students without hands-on experience during their studies. Furthermore, economic stagnation and public sector saturation contribute to the scarcity of job openings.

1b5ec3f5 6f73 4527 a73d cc3ab98694fc
From Classrooms to Crossroads: The Unemployment Challenge for Ghanaian Graduates 18

The consequences are far-reaching—graduates experience depression, delayed independence, and in many cases are forced to accept underpaid roles below their qualification level. Others migrate abroad, fuelling a persistent brain drain. The growing pool of unemployed educated youth also poses risks to social cohesion and national stability.

To reverse the trend, stakeholders must collaborate. Educational reforms are needed to prioritize practical skills, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship. Strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), expanding internships, and promoting innovation hubs are essential. Government policies should support SMEs, diversify the economy, and drive tech and manufacturing growth. Private sector involvement in apprenticeship programs and skills-based hiring is also key. Meanwhile, graduates must embrace continuous learning, adaptability, and the pursuit of entrepreneurship.

If tackled collectively, Ghana can turn its vast pool of educated youth from frustrated job-seekers into innovative drivers of economic transformation.

🖊️ Written by Emmanuel Addo Adjei • TikTok

Political Science Student, UEW

✓ @emmanueladdoadjei

Anthony Annan Still Active – Now Playing Amateur Football in Germany

0

Ghana-former international midfielder Anthony Annan remains active in football, now playing for the German amateur side DJK Arminia Lirich. The 37-year-old Ghanaian signed for the club in August 2023. 

img 9934
Anthony Annan Still Active – Now Playing Amateur Football in Germany 20

After a decorated professional career across Europe — including stints at Schalke 04 in the Bundesliga, Rosenborg in Norway, HJK Helsinki in Finland, and national team outings with the Black Stars — Annan has taken a surprising turn. Instead of retiring, he elected to join the Kreisliga A club Arminia Lirich, based in Oberhausen, Germany. 

Despite the downward move in league level, Annan says he is far from done with football. In a recent interview, he dismissed retirement rumours: “I have not retired yet … I just came to Germany, and I will see about that. If I get the chance to play again, I will.” 

At Arminia Lirich, his presence has brought more than just name recognition — teammates and coaches laud his work ethic and leadership. The club sees his signing as a boost for their ambition to climb to the Bezirksliga. 

For many Ghanaian football fans, it is inspiring: a former national star choosing to play for the love of the game, close to family and community, rather than hanging up his boots. Anthony Annan’s journey shows that passion for football doesn’t always end with the top leagues.

President Mahama Approves Re-engagement of Christian Yohuno as IGP for Two Years

0

President John Dramani Mahama has approved a two-year contract extension for Inspector-General of Police (IGP) COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, allowing him to continue leading the Ghana Police Service beyond his statutory retirement date. 

photo output 6
President Mahama Approves Re-engagement of Christian Yohuno as IGP for Two Years 22

The decision was announced on 25 November 2025, via an official letter signed by Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President.  The extension, which takes effect on 28 December 2025, follows a recommendation by the Police Council. 

In the letter, President Mahama stressed that IGP Yohuno’s continued leadership is vital at this “crucial period,” particularly as the Police Service implements major reforms, seeks to boost operational efficiency, and maintains institutional stability. 

IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno first rose to the top post in March 2025, when he was appointed to replace Dr. George Akuffo Dampare and sworn in at the Jubilee House.  Since then, he has been tasked with steering the Police Service through modernization, tackling crime, and building public trust. 

Yohuno has been asked to confirm his acceptance of the re-engagement in writing within three days of receiving the communication.