Ghana’s vital cocoa sector faces mounting frustration as many farmers remain unpaid despite a government-backed disbursement of around ₵3.62 billion (≈ $337 million) intended to clear longstanding arrears. The funds, released by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) and the Ministry of Finance to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), were expected to settle outstanding payments dating back to late 2025. However, cocoa farmers and purchasing clerks report they have yet to receive the funds, leading to widespread frustration in key producing regions. Licensed Cocoa Buyers Association officials have cited logistical challenges with distributing payments to nearly one million farmers, while sector debts and liquidity issues persist.
Ghana cocoa farmers await payment despite government disbursement pledge.
The stalled payments have sparked calls for immediate government intervention to stabilize the industry ahead of upcoming crop seasons, as cocoa remains one of Ghana’s most important export commodities.
For continuous updates on agricultural news in Ghana, visit GhanaMedia.net.
Ghanaian gospel powerhouse Esther Smith has officially unveiled her latest single titled “Yesu Meda Wase”, a deeply spiritual and uplifting thanksgiving anthem that is already resonating with worshippers across Ghana and the diaspora.
Esther Smith releases inspiring new gospel single “Yesu Meda Wase.”
A Powerful Anthem of Gratitude
Translated as “Jesus, I Thank You,” “Yesu Meda Wase” delivers a heartfelt message of appreciation, faith, and total dependence on God. The song blends rich contemporary gospel instrumentation with Esther Smith’s unmistakable vocal power, creating a moving worship experience that speaks to both personal and collective thanksgiving.
The production is polished and spirit-filled, combining strong lyrical depth with a melody that is both captivating and prayerful. Many early listeners have described the song as refreshing, electrifying, and spiritually uplifting.
Reaffirming Her Gospel Legacy
With a career spanning decades, Esther Smith remains one of Ghana’s most influential gospel ministers. Her consistency, vocal excellence, and deep spiritual message have cemented her place as a pillar in Ghana’s gospel music industry. “Yesu Meda Wase” is not just another release—it is a reaffirmation of her enduring ministry through music.
The new single is expected to become a favorite in churches, Christian gatherings, and gospel playlists nationwide.
Now Available on Streaming Platforms
“Yesu Meda Wase” is currently available on major digital streaming platforms, allowing fans worldwide to experience the powerful thanksgiving message. The release adds to what many describe as a strong year for Ghanaian gospel music.
For more updates on trending gospel and entertainment stories, visit GhanaMedia.net.
Three exceptional students from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) schools have been honoured with the Presidential Academic Award on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, for their outstanding performance in the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
“GAF students honoured with Presidential Academic Award for excellence in the 2025 BECE.”
Meet the Awardees
The students recognised for their academic excellence are:
Ms Abigail Agyeiwaa Asante – Michel Camp ‘2’ Junior High School, Greater Accra
Mr Blessing Nortey Dowuona – Garrison Primary and Junior High School, Burma Camp
Ms Angel Eyram Gbadegbenyo – Services Basic School, Takoradi
These three students were part of 52 exceptional scholars who received awards during the ceremony held at the Accra International Conference Centre. The awards were presented by the Vice President, Her Excellency Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, on behalf of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the GAF, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama.
Words of Encouragement from Leadership
The Vice President encouraged the awardees to become ambassadors of good conduct within their schools. She urged them to remain focused on their goals, uphold responsibility, respect others, and grow into citizens who appreciate the balance between freedom and responsibility.
The Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, praised the students for their diligence and determination, noting that their achievements reflect the consistent support from parents, teachers, and guardians. He encouraged the awardees to maintain their focus on their aspirations.
Inspiration from Nestle Ghana
The Managing Director of Nestle Ghana Limited, Madam Salome Azevedo, addressed the students, urging them to embrace learning with enthusiasm. She emphasised that education is key to the future and encouraged the students to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Award Package and Recognition
The award package for the students included laptops, Nestle souvenirs and products, scrolls, medals, and sashes, recognising their remarkable academic achievements and hard work.
Impact on Education in GAF Schools
This recognition highlights the dedication of students, educators, and families within the GAF school system. By celebrating excellence, such initiatives inspire other students to strive for similar achievements in their educational journeys.
Looking Ahead
As these students continue their studies, their journey serves as a model of perseverance, focus, and academic dedication, ensuring that the next generation of GAF students remains motivated to achieve excellence.
A tragic incident in Itumbiara, located in Brazil’s Goiás state, has left the country in mourning after a local politician fatally shot his two young sons before taking his own life.
The politician, identified in Brazilian media as Thales Machado, was serving as a municipal official at the time of the incident. Authorities say the shooting occurred inside the family home.
What Authorities Have Confirmed
According to reports from Brazilian outlets including CNN Brasil, police confirmed that:
The politician shot his 12-year-old son at the scene.His 8-year-old son was critically injured and later died in hospital.After the shootings, the father turned the weapon on himself.
Emergency response scene in Goiás following the tragic family shooting.
Emergency services responded quickly, but both children succumbed to their injuries.
Possible Motive Under Investigation
Investigators are examining reports suggesting the tragedy may have been linked to marital conflict. Some local media accounts indicate that suspicions of infidelity could have played a role, though authorities have not released an official motive.
Police in Goiás have stated that investigations are ongoing and that forensic and digital evidence is being reviewed.
Public Reaction and Aftermath
The case has sparked widespread shock across Brazil, with citizens expressing grief over the deaths of the children. Officials have urged the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues.
The tragedy has also reignited national conversations around mental health, domestic conflict, and access to firearms.
A Nation in Mourning
Community members in Itumbiara gathered to pay tribute to the two boys, whose deaths have deeply affected residents and public officials alike.
Authorities continue to gather information and have urged anyone with relevant details to cooperate with investigators.
Ghana’s gospel music industry has grown into a powerful economic force, with concerts, streaming, brand endorsements and international ministry shaping significant wealth for leading artists. While exact financial records are private, multiple industry estimates consistently place one name at the top.
Joe Mettle performing live at a major gospel concert in Ghana.
Joe Mettle – Ghana’s Wealthiest Gospel Star
Joe Mettle is widely regarded as the richest gospel artist in Ghana as of 2026, with estimated net worth figures often ranging around $2–3 million.
His wealth is built on:
Major hit songs and strong streaming numbersSold-out annual “Praiz Reloaded” concertsInternational tours across Europe and North AmericaBrand endorsements and ambassadorial dealsPrivate corporate and church bookings
Joe Mettle also made history as the first gospel musician to win Artiste of the Year at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards, significantly boosting his commercial value.
Close Contenders
Other highly successful gospel musicians in Ghana include:
Diana Hamilton – One of Ghana’s most celebrated female gospel artists, earning from global tours, album sales and fashion ventures.
Ohemaa Mercy – Known for the “Tehillah Experience” concert brand and consistent ministry income.
Sonnie Badu – With a strong international ministry presence and business investments.
How Gospel Artists Build Wealth in Ghana
Top gospel musicians generate income through multiple streams:
Concert ticket sales
Streaming royalties (YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music)
Church and international bookings
Brand partnerships
Music production and songwriting credits
Entrepreneurial ventures
Unlike secular artists who rely heavily on commercial endorsements, gospel musicians often combine ministry work with structured business investments.
Important Note on Net Worth Figures
It is important to note that net worth estimates are not officially confirmed financial disclosures. They are based on public earnings indicators, industry rankings, property visibility, business ventures and concert scale.
As of 2026, however, Joe Mettle consistently ranks as Ghana’s richest gospel musician.
In the whirlwind of medals and megaphones at the Ashanti Regional Super Zonal Championships, one performer keeps letting the stopwatch do the talking. Adelaide Fosuaah is the silent engine driving Team Real—no theatrics, no noise, just results delivered with clinical precision.
Double Silver, Total Control
Fosuaah stormed to silver in the 100m and silver in the 200m, executing her races with an icy composure that separates contenders from closers. She doesn’t panic. She calculates. Then she strikes—hitting top gear with sharp arm drive, elastic flexibility, and a smooth, relentless acceleration that turns lanes into poetry.
Adelaide Fosuaah in full flight—calm, calculated, and devastatingly fast.
Legacy Work in the Relays
Her impact extends beyond individual medals. Fosuaah is a core member of the quartet that shattered the 4x100m and 4x200m records—a defining contribution that stamps this Super Zonal campaign as legacy work for Team Real Amass.
A Star That Shines Quietly
The Ashanti Regional Super Zonal Diaries keep revealing gems, and this one glows without glare. Adelaide Fosuaah may not chase the spotlight, but when the gun goes and the curve opens, she glides past expectations. Unsung? Perhaps. Unstoppable when it matters? Absolutely.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Ghana Police Service has ordered an immediate investigation into allegations that some police officers unlawfully withdrew GH¢400,000 from a citizen’s mobile money (MoMo) account.
The directive follows widespread public concern over claims that officers were involved in an unauthorized withdrawal of funds via a mobile money platform. The alleged incident has sparked debate about police conduct, digital financial security, and accountability within law enforcement.
Ghana Police Service launches probe into alleged GH¢400,000 MoMo withdrawal case
IGP Directs Thorough Investigation
According to official sources, the IGP has instructed the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to conduct a full-scale probe into the matter. The police administration says it is committed to transparency and will ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full rigours of the law.
The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, stressing that professionalism and public trust remain at the core of its operations.
Public Outcry and Digital Security Concerns
The alleged GH¢400,000 withdrawal has triggered public outrage, particularly as mobile money transactions have become a major pillar of Ghana’s financial ecosystem. Platforms such as MTN MoMo are widely used across the country for business, savings, and daily transactions.
Financial experts argue that any breach involving law enforcement officers could significantly erode public confidence in both security agencies and digital payment systems. Analysts have therefore called for swift and transparent investigations to reassure the public.
Accountability and Rule of Law
Legal experts note that if the allegations are substantiated, the case could involve serious criminal offences, including fraud, abuse of office, and unlawful access to electronic financial systems.
The Ghana Police Service has assured the public that updates will be provided as investigations progress. Civil society groups have also urged authorities to ensure the probe remains independent and credible.
This development comes amid broader national conversations about police reforms and institutional accountability in Ghana.
Read these interesting comments made from one of Facebook‘s posts concerning the security authority in Ghana. 1 & 2
GhanaMedia.net will continue to monitor this story and provide verified updates as they become available.
Ghana Premier League footballer Hensen Amponsah has opened up about the heartbreaking moment he lost his entire house to a raging fire, describing the incident as one of the darkest days of his life. The talented defender, who plays for Aduana FC, revealed that he was unable to salvage any of his personal belongings as the flames rapidly consumed the property.
According to Amponsah, the fire spread so quickly that there was no opportunity to rescue valuables. “I couldn’t pick anything. My phones, boots and jerseys are all burnt,” he said emotionally. The blaze reportedly destroyed everything inside the house, leaving the footballer devastated and temporarily displaced.
Hensen Amponsah reacts after revealing his house was destroyed by fire.
Incidents like this have become a growing concern across parts of Ghana, with the Ghana National Fire Service repeatedly urging the public to prioritise fire safety measures in homes and residential areas.
Shock Across the Ghana Premier League
The news has sent shockwaves through the Ghana Premier League, with teammates, club officials and fans expressing sympathy and support. Aduana FC is yet to release an official statement, but several players have taken to social media to rally behind their teammate.
Amponsah has been a consistent performer for Aduana FC this season, earning praise for his discipline and defensive contributions. His resilience on the pitch has now been matched by a personal test off it.
Calls for Support
Supporters are already calling for assistance to help the player recover from the tragic loss. Many believe the football community will come together to help him rebuild.
For more Ghana news live updates and breaking sports stories, stay connected to GhanaMedia.net for verified and timely coverage. 50-word version: Ghana Premier League player Hensen Amponsah has lost his entire house to a devastating fire. The Aduana FC defender revealed he could not save anything as flames destroyed his phones, boots and jerseys. The incident has sparked sympathy across Ghana’s football community.
In an era where leadership is often defined by influence and visibility, Addo Emmanuel Adjei is emerging as a symbol of purpose-driven impact. His rise is not marked merely by ambition, but by a deep commitment to service, empowerment, and meaningful change. From humble beginnings to becoming a recognized voice among youth and community advocates, Emmanuel represents a new generation of leaders redefining success through social responsibility.
The Rise of Addo Emmanuel Adjei: A New Voice in Leadership and Social Impact
His journey reflects a powerful blend of vision, resilience, and compassion. Rather than pursuing personal advancement alone, Emmanuel chose a path that integrates leadership with community transformation—an approach that has earned him respect among peers, institutions, and emerging changemakers.
The Birth of a Movement: Emmanuel Foundation
Members of Emmanuel Foundation
Central to his growing influence is the creation of the Emmanuel Foundation, an initiative dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening communities. Founded on the principles of hope, opportunity, and transformation, the foundation focuses on addressing critical social challenges, particularly among young people and underserved populations.
The Emmanuel Foundation was established with a clear mission: to inspire lives, promote mental well-being, support education, and create pathways for sustainable development. Through awareness campaigns, mentorship programs, and community engagement initiatives, the foundation seeks to equip individuals with the tools they need to overcome limitations and realize their full potential.
What distinguishes the foundation is its emphasis on both immediate impact and long-term empowerment. Rather than temporary interventions, Emmanuel’s approach prioritizes building confidence, leadership capacity, and self-reliance.
Leadership Rooted in Authenticity
Emmanuel’s leadership style is defined by authenticity and humility. He believes that true leadership is measured not by authority, but by service. His growing influence has been driven not by personal promotion, but by consistent action and a clear commitment to uplifting others.
Observers and supporters describe him as a visionary who understands the power of empathy and connection. His ability to communicate purpose and inspire collective action has positioned him as a role model for young people seeking direction and meaning in an increasingly complex world.
His work also reflects a broader philosophy: that sustainable change begins with individual transformation. By encouraging self-belief and community responsibility, Emmanuel is contributing to a culture of empowerment that extends beyond immediate initiatives.
A Rising Global Presence
As his work continues to gain visibility, Emmanuel is steadily building a presence beyond local boundaries. Through digital platforms, public engagement, and strategic partnerships, his message of empowerment is reaching wider audiences. His growing recognition reflects the universal relevance of his mission—one rooted in dignity, opportunity, and hope.
His leadership journey demonstrates how individuals can shape meaningful change regardless of their starting point. In a time when many seek authentic voices and genuine impact, Emmanuel represents the emergence of a leader driven not by status, but by purpose.
A Legacy in the Making
The rise of Addo Emmanuel Adjei is more than a personal success story—it is the beginning of a movement centered on transformation and service. Through the Emmanuel Foundation, he is laying the foundation for lasting impact, inspiring individuals to believe in their potential and contribute to their communities.
As his influence continues to grow, one thing remains clear: Emmanuel’s legacy will not be defined solely by his achievements, but by the lives he empowers and the hope he inspires.
Unconfirmed reports circulating on social media suggest that Mahamudu Bawumia and his wife, Samira Bawumia, were evacuated from Qatar by Ghanaian diplomatic officials amid escalating tensions across the Middle East.
Mahamudu Bawumia and Samira Bawumia reportedly evacuated from Qatar amid escalating Middle East tensions.
No Official Confirmation Yet
As of publication, there has been no formal statement from Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration confirming an evacuation involving the former Vice President and his spouse. GhanaMedia.net has reached out to diplomatic sources for clarification.
Regional instability linked to the widening Iran-Israel conflict has prompted multiple governments to review security protocols for citizens and high-profile officials in the Gulf region. International outlets including Reuters and BBC News continue to report on heightened military and diplomatic tensions across the Middle East.
Heightened Security Measures Across the Gulf
Although Qatar has not declared a state of emergency, diplomatic missions in the region are understood to be operating under increased security alert levels. Several countries have activated contingency evacuation plans for nationals considered at potential risk.
Security analysts note that precautionary movements of senior political figures during volatile periods are not unusual, particularly when regional airspace or strategic installations face elevated threat levels.
Monitoring the Situation
Ghanaian authorities are believed to be closely monitoring developments in collaboration with international partners. Should an official confirmation or statement be issued, it is expected to be published via the Ministry’s official communication channels.
For now, the reported evacuation remains unverified. GhanaMedia.net will continue to follow developments and provide updates as soon as credible confirmation becomes available.
