AKOSOMBO, Ghana – A heartbreaking video of a Ghanaian carpenter breaking down in tears while being driven away over an unpaid loan has resurfaced online, reigniting discussions about the dangers of high-interest digital loans and financial hardship.
Jonathan Mensah breaks down in tears after struggling to repay a reported GH₵10,000 loan in a viral Ghana video.
According to reports circulating on social media, the man, identified as Jonathan Mensah, allegedly borrowed GH₵10,000 from a lending company to finance his father’s funeral. Reports claim the loan later accumulated more than GH₵4,000 in interest, making repayment increasingly difficult.
The emotional footage shows the distressed man crying inside a vehicle as people around him question how he could refuse to repay the debt. The clip has attracted thousands of reactions, with many Ghanaians expressing sympathy while others stressed the importance of honouring loan agreements.
Although the video has recently gone viral again, reports indicate that the incident actually occurred in 2024. Its renewed circulation has prompted fresh conversations about responsible borrowing, rising interest costs and the financial pressures facing many households.
Financial experts frequently advise borrowers to carefully review loan terms, understand interest charges and ensure they have a realistic repayment plan before accepting any form of credit. They also encourage lenders to promote transparent lending practices and responsible debt recovery methods.
The resurfaced video has once again highlighted the emotional and financial consequences that can arise when borrowers struggle to meet repayment obligations, particularly in difficult economic circumstances.
The Attorney General has informed the court that the State is unable to provide any documents, files, or correspondence relating to the source, purpose, or national security records connected to the alleged GH¢49.1 million at the centre of the criminal case involving former National Signals Bureau Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene.
Attorney General addresses document disclosure in the GH¢49.1 million Adu-Boahene case.
The disclosure was made during ongoing court proceedings and has drawn significant attention because the defence has consistently sought access to documents it considers relevant to the allegations. The case revolves around claims that GH¢49.1 million intended for a cyber-defence procurement project was misappropriated.
The Attorney General’s position comes after earlier Court of Appeal rulings directing the prosecution to disclose specific documents and financial records requested by the defence while declining broader requests for historical national security account records.
The latest development is expected to fuel further legal arguments over disclosure obligations, access to evidence, and the extent to which national security considerations may affect criminal proceedings. The trial continues before the High Court.
Ghanaian rapper Awal has revealed that he has diversified his source of income by venturing into poultry farming as the music industry continues to present financial challenges.
Rapper Awal says he now earns income by rearing and selling day-old chicks.
Speaking during a recent radio interview, the rapper disclosed that life has become difficult and he now rears and sells day-old chicks to support himself financially. According to Awal, depending solely on music is no longer sustainable, prompting him to invest in agriculture.
His revelation has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Ghanaians praising him for embracing honest work instead of waiting for opportunities in the entertainment industry. Others described his decision as a strong example of entrepreneurship and resilience.
Awal explained that there is dignity in every legitimate business and encouraged young people to develop additional skills and income streams rather than relying on a single profession.
The rapper’s story also highlights the growing trend of Ghanaian entertainers exploring businesses outside music as they adapt to changing economic realities.
By Dr. Ernest Asimenu, Regional Lead, Business Origination – West Africa, Business and Commercial Banking Offshore, Stanbic Bank
For many years, international banking has been misunderstood. It has often been associated with secrecy, exclusivity or tax avoidance. The reality today could not be more different.
Dr. Ernest Asimenu, Regional Lead, Business Origination – West Africa, Business and Commercial Banking Offshore, Stanbic Bank.
In an increasingly interconnected world, offshore banking has evolved into a legitimate financial planning tool used by globally minded individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses seeking stability, efficiency and access to international opportunities. Across West Africa, where businesses are expanding beyond domestic markets and high-net-worth individuals are becoming increasingly global in their outlook, international wealth diversification is no longer a luxury. It is becoming a strategic necessity.
As economies across Ghana, Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire continue to integrate with international markets, the ability to bank beyond national borders is emerging as an important competitive advantage.
A Changing African Economy
West Africa is witnessing the rise of a new generation of entrepreneurs, investors and business owners. These are companies importing machinery from Europe, exporting commodities to Asia, investing in real estate across multiple jurisdictions and raising capital from international partners. Many have family members studying abroad, children attending universities overseas or investment interests spanning several countries.
Yet many continue to rely solely on domestic banking relationships that were designed primarily for local transactions. As businesses become increasingly international, financial solutions must evolve accordingly. The question is no longer whether African businesses will become global. Many already are. The question is whether their banking arrangements are keeping pace.
Why Internationally Diversified Banking Makes Business Sense
Maintaining banking relationships across multiple jurisdictions should never replace a strong domestic banking relationship. Rather, it complements it. For businesses, an international banking partner can provide greater flexibility when managing cross-border trade, foreign currency transactions and international supplier payments.
For internationally mobile individuals and families, diversified banking offers access to multicurrency accounts, global payment capabilities and internationally recognised financial centres operating under robust regulatory frameworks. Perhaps most importantly, it provides diversification.
Just as investors diversify portfolios, sophisticated clients increasingly diversify where they hold banking relationships. This diversification often extends across jurisdictions, with geographic diversification becoming an important element of prudent financial planning.
Supporting African Businesses as They Expand
Across my conversations with business leaders throughout West Africa, one common theme consistently emerges: businesses are expanding faster than their banking structures.
Manufacturers entering new export markets, technology companies serving international customers, mining service providers operating across several jurisdictions and professional firms supporting multinational clients all require banking solutions that are equally international.
A cross-border banking platform can help facilitate international collections, improve payment efficiency and support businesses as they establish operations in multiple jurisdictions. Rather than seeing international banking as something to consider “one day”, many businesses are recognising that it should form part of their growth strategy from the outset.
Protecting Wealth Across Generations
The conversation extends beyond business. Africa is experiencing unprecedented wealth creation. Alongside this comes an increasing focus on preserving wealth for future generations. Successful entrepreneurs are asking different questions.
How do I structure my wealth internationally?
How do I invest globally?
How do I provide for children studying abroad?
How do I ensure continuity if my family becomes increasingly international?
These questions require more than traditional banking. They require holistic wealth planning supported by trusted advisers who understand both local realities and global opportunities. This is where a broader wealth management conversation begins and thrives.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Partner
Not all international banking relationships are created equal. Clients today require more than simply opening an overseas account. They expect relationship-led banking, specialist expertise, robust compliance standards and access to a broader ecosystem of wealth, lending, fiduciary and investment solutions.
Equally important is having professionals who understand African markets while possessing the capability to connect clients with international financial centres. That local understanding, combined with global reach, is where true value is created.
A West African Perspective
Having worked with businesses and high-net-worth clients across West Africa, I have seen firsthand the increasing sophistication of our entrepreneurs. Our clients are no longer restricted by national boundaries. They are investing regionally. They are acquiring businesses internationally. They are educating children globally. They are building family wealth with a multi-generational perspective.
Shouldn’t their banking reflect that same ambition? The future belongs to businesses and families that think globally while remaining firmly rooted in Africa.
For more developments affecting businesses and investors, follow Ghana News, Ghana News Live and the latest Top Stories. Readers can also explore GhanaMedia.net’s Policy & Law Hub for coverage of financial and regulatory developments.
Looking Ahead
The next decade will likely see even greater integration between African economies and the rest of the world. Cross-border trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), increasing foreign investment and growing international mobility will continue to reshape how African businesses operate. Banking must evolve alongside these changes.
The opportunities to deepen a financial foothold across geographical boundaries are no longer simply about holding an account outside one’s country of residence. It is also about providing businesses and families with access to international financial infrastructure that supports growth, protects wealth and enables opportunity.
For forward-thinking entrepreneurs, investors and internationally connected families across Ghana, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire and Angola, banking beyond borders is no longer an aspiration. It is becoming a strategic financial decision.
As Africa’s influence in the global economy continues to grow, those who position themselves with internationally connected financial partners today will be better placed to seize tomorrow’s opportunities. The future of African wealth will not be defined by borders. It will be defined by vision.
Dr. Ernest Asimenu is Regional Lead, Business Origination – West Africa, Business and Commercial Banking Offshore, Stanbic Bank.
Stanbic Investment Management Services (SIMS) has reported strong performance across its Collective Investment Schemes for the 2025 financial year, with combined assets under management (AUM) surpassing GH¢2.5 billion.
Kwabena Boamah, Managing Director of Stanbic Investment Management Services (SIMS).
The milestone reflects significant growth across the company’s flagship funds amid renewed investor participation and improving market conditions. The performance was highlighted at the Annual General Meeting held on June 19, 2026, covering the Stanbic Cash Trust (SCT), Stanbic Income Fund Trust (SIFT) and Platinum Debt Income Fund PLC (PDIF).
Strong growth across SIMS funds
According to figures presented by SIMS, the Stanbic Cash Trust more than doubled in size, recording a 114% increase to approximately GH¢1.66 billion. The Stanbic Income Fund Trust grew by 35.6% to GH¢645.9 million, while the Platinum Debt Income Fund expanded by 199% to more than GH¢212 million.
The growth was attributed to renewed investor participation and an improving investment environment characterised by declining inflation, falling interest rates and a strengthening Ghana cedi.
For more developments from the financial sector and across the country, follow Ghana News and the latest updates on Ghana News Live.
Funds outperform key benchmarks
SIMS also reported strong investment returns during the period. The Stanbic Cash Trust main class recorded a return of 33.2%, compared with its benchmark of 19.8%, while the Stanbic Income Fund Trust delivered 35.3%, outperforming its benchmark return of 21.1%.
The performance was largely linked to falling yields and bond price appreciation, which supported valuation gains across fixed-income portfolios.
Fund managers attributed the results to disciplined investment strategies and proactive portfolio repositioning. The Stanbic Cash Trust maintained a conservative approach centred on capital preservation and liquidity, with investments primarily in treasury bills and fixed deposits.
The fund was rebalanced away from government bonds into money market instruments, a move aimed at restoring liquidity and reducing duration risk.
“The fund’s priority remains capital preservation, liquidity, and competitive risk-adjusted returns,” Portfolio Manager Santi Sackey said, noting that the repositioning restored the fund’s expected risk profile.
The Stanbic Income Fund Trust, meanwhile, continued to focus on medium- to long-term corporate and sovereign bonds, benefiting from declining benchmark interest rates and improved activity in the bond market.
The fund is expected to maintain significant exposure to 2027 and 2028 maturities, which are anticipated to serve as key anchors of portfolio returns. The main fund was also reopened to new deposits, enabling investors to take advantage of lower yields and reduced portfolio volatility.
Unlisted credit strategy supports growth
The Platinum Debt Income Fund PLC, which focuses on long-term debt investments, recorded strong asset growth and a weighted average yield of 15.3%.
According to Fund Manager Boaz Asare, the fund continues to pursue attractive return opportunities by strategically diversifying its unlisted debt portfolio across sectors including financial services, fintech, transport and mining.
SIMS reduces fees for investors
The fund manager and trustee also implemented fee reductions intended to cushion investors against new regulatory costs and statutory obligations introduced during the year.
Stanbic Cash Trust fund management fees were reduced from 2.25% to 2.00%, while trustee fees declined from 0.40% to 0.25%.
Outlook
Looking ahead, SIMS fund managers expect continued market volatility amid global developments and Ghana’s ongoing economic transition. However, they remain optimistic about emerging investment opportunities, particularly within the domestic bond market.
With its continued focus on disciplined portfolio management, liquidity and strategic investing, SIMS says it is positioned to sustain growth and pursue competitive returns for investors.
Readers can find more major developments under Top Stories and follow key economic, regulatory and policy developments through the Policy & Law Hub.
Ghana’s economy is facing a fresh test of its foreign exchange resilience as elevated global oil prices and rising shipping costs linked to tensions in the Middle East threaten to push up the country’s import bill.
Standard Bank has reportedly revised downward its projection for Ghana’s 2026 current account surplus by approximately $1 billion, with higher petroleum import costs emerging as a major source of pressure. Ghana remains particularly exposed to changes in global energy prices because the country imports significantly more petroleum than it exports.
According to Jibran Qureishi, Head of Africa Regions Economics Research at Standard Bank, the bank had initially projected that Ghana could record a current account surplus of about $5 billion in 2026. However, the outlook has now been revised downward by approximately $1 billion amid concerns over rising oil prices.
Despite the expected deterioration, Ghana is still projected to maintain a current account surplus rather than fall into deficit, offering some reassurance about the country’s external economic position.
Oil prices emerge as major risk to Ghana
Ghana’s dependence on imported petroleum remains one of its key vulnerabilities. At an oil price of around $65 per barrel, petroleum imports are estimated to represent approximately 29% of total goods imports, with the share potentially increasing significantly if global crude prices rise towards the $90 to $95 per barrel range.
The country, however, has relatively limited direct exposure to some Middle Eastern supply chains. According to the analysis, only about 6% of Ghana’s fertilizer imports originate from the United Arab Emirates, while much of the country’s fertilizer supply comes from Russia and Italy. Ghana’s cocoa exports are also considered to have limited direct exposure to the region.
For more developments affecting the economy, politics and national affairs, follow Ghana News and the latest updates on Ghana News Live.
Cedi and forex market under pressure
The foreign exchange market is also facing renewed pressure. Standard Bank estimates a dollar backlog of approximately $1 billion, while the cedi has been trading around GH¢11.65 to GH¢11.70 against the US dollar in the spot market, according to the report.
The research team expects the exchange rate could approach the GH¢12.00 level before potentially recovering as new measures designed to improve foreign exchange liquidity take effect.
The Bank of Ghana has been pursuing reforms to its foreign exchange operations as authorities seek to improve liquidity, reduce volatility and strengthen access to hard currency. The central bank’s broader monetary policy framework includes forward foreign exchange operations intended to improve price discovery and reduce pressure on the spot market.
The Bank of Ghana currently lists its Monetary Policy Rate at 14%, reflecting the significant easing in monetary conditions since 2025. However, the Standard Bank analysis suggests that renewed inflationary risks from higher fuel and food prices could encourage policymakers to maintain a more cautious stance for the remainder of the year.
Ghana faces rising external debt repayments
Another major challenge is Ghana’s external debt repayment schedule. External debt amortisation is projected to rise from approximately $960 million in 2025 to $2.3 billion in 2026 before climbing further to $3.2 billion in 2027.
These obligations could place additional pressure on Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves and limit the government’s fiscal flexibility, even as the country continues efforts to strengthen its macroeconomic position.
According to the Standard Bank analysis, Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves stood at approximately $13.9 billion as of April 2026. The report suggests that maintaining fiscal discipline will remain critical as debt repayments increase and external risks persist.
Qureishi argued that the coming years will be an important test of Ghana’s ability to demonstrate lasting economic credibility to international investors, particularly as the country moves towards the 2028 election cycle.
While Ghana has made progress in restoring macroeconomic stability, rising oil prices, pressure on the cedi, foreign exchange demand and growing external debt repayments show that significant risks remain. The ability of policymakers to preserve fiscal discipline and maintain investor confidence could ultimately determine how successfully the economy withstands the latest global shocks.
Also Read: Follow Top Stories for major national developments and visit the Policy & Law Hub for important updates affecting Ghana.
The story of Lamine Yamal’s journey to football superstardom contains a series of remarkable details that sound almost too perfect to be true. Long before he became one of the brightest talents of his generation, his name reportedly carried a powerful story of gratitude — and while he was still a baby, he found himself in the arms of a young Lionel Messi during an unforgettable charity photoshoot.
Lamine Yamal Nasraoui Ebana was born on July 13, 2007, in Spain. Contrary to what some football fans may assume, “Lamine Yamal” is his compound given name rather than simply his first name and surname. Reports about the origin of his name say his parents chose “Lamine” and “Yamal” in honour of two people who had helped the family financially during a difficult period before his birth.
The story adds another emotional dimension to the identity of a footballer whose rise has captivated millions. His family roots stretch to Morocco through his father and Equatorial Guinea through his mother, while Yamal was born and raised in Spain, eventually developing into an elite football talent through FC Barcelona’s famous youth system.
But perhaps the most extraordinary chapter of Yamal’s childhood happened when he was only a few months old. In late 2007, a young Lionel Messi took part in a charity calendar photoshoot connected to the newspaper Sport, the Barça Foundation and UNICEF. Families had entered their children for the initiative, and baby Lamine was reportedly among those selected.
During the photoshoot at Camp Nou, photographer Joan Monfort captured images that would become globally famous many years later. Messi, then a 20-year-old rising Barcelona star, was photographed interacting with baby Lamine — including the now-iconic scene of Messi helping bathe him in a small tub. Yamal’s mother was also present during the session.
The photographer later explained that the bathtub concept was created specifically for the photoshoot. Messi was reportedly shy and cautious around the baby at first, but the atmosphere became more relaxed during the session. At the time, nobody involved could possibly have known that the child in Messi’s arms would grow up to become one of world football’s biggest young stars.
The photographs were part of a charitable calendar project and largely disappeared from public attention for years. They exploded across social media after Yamal’s father shared the images as his son was becoming an international football sensation. Suddenly, an ordinary charity photoshoot from 2007 looked like an extraordinary meeting between two generations of football history.
The story has often been described online as Messi “blessing” Yamal with his football talent. That interpretation is, of course, only a playful piece of football folklore. The real story is already remarkable enough: the meeting was a coincidence created by a charity initiative, with neither Messi nor Yamal’s family knowing what the future would bring.
Years later, Yamal would follow an astonishingly similar football path, developing at Barcelona and emerging as a generational talent while inevitably drawing comparisons with Messi. Yet Yamal continues to build an identity and career of his own.
From a name reportedly given in gratitude to people who supported his family, to an accidental childhood encounter with one of football’s greatest players, Lamine Yamal’s early story has become part of modern football folklore. The photograph of Messi bathing baby Yamal was not a prophecy or a planned passing of the torch — but nearly two decades later, it remains one of football’s most extraordinary coincidences.
A disturbing criminal case in New Jersey has drawn widespread attention online after a 25-year-old woman identified in media reports as Victoria Anne Cranmer was accused of sexually assaulting a toddler she had allegedly been babysitting.
Victoria Anne Cranmer, the former babysitter accused in a disturbing New Jersey child sexual assault case.
According to recent reports, Cranmer appeared in Ocean County Superior Court and was ordered held without bail as the case proceeds. Authorities allege that video evidence connected to the abuse was discovered, leading to serious criminal accusations against her. The allegations have sparked outrage after details of the case circulated widely on social media.
Allegations Involving a Child
Reports allege that the case involves a young child who had been under Cranmer’s care as a babysitter. Investigators reportedly became involved after disturbing video evidence was discovered.
Because the matter involves allegations of sexual abuse against a minor, GhanaMedia.net is withholding graphic and unnecessarily explicit details about the alleged acts.
The case remains an allegation before the courts, and Cranmer is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until she is proven guilty.
Viral Video Raises Further Questions
A separate video circulating on X claims to show or discuss Cranmer and suggests that she had previously worked as a babysitter for another family. However, GhanaMedia.net has not independently verified all statements made in the viral clip, and those social-media claims should not be treated as established fact without confirmation from investigators or court records.
The case has nevertheless renewed public discussion about child safeguarding, background checks for caregivers and the importance of parents remaining vigilant when choosing individuals to look after young children.
As authorities continue their investigation and court proceedings move forward, further verified information may emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
For more breaking stories, follow Ghana News, Ghana News Live, Top Stories and the Policy & Law Hub.
Source: Recent US media reporting and the viral social-media video provided for review.
Gospel musician and worship leader Daniel Jeddman is set to headline an exciting Album Review Podcast, where he will share the story behind his music, ministry and the creative process that shaped his inspiring album, Wo’Ara.
The highly anticipated podcast promises an in-depth conversation about Daniel Jeddman’s musical journey, the inspiration behind his songs, collaborations, faith, and the impact of gospel music on audiences around the world.
Listeners can also expect exclusive insights into the production of the Wo’Ara album, the challenges of independent gospel music, and the vision driving Daniel Jeddman’s growing international ministry.
The upcoming interview is expected to resonate with gospel music lovers, worship leaders, creatives and supporters eager to learn more about the man behind the music. It also offers an opportunity for fans to discover the heart and testimony that continue to inspire Daniel Jeddman’s songwriting.
As anticipation builds, supporters are encouraged to stay tuned for the official release date of the podcast, which will be available on major streaming platforms.
The appearance forms part of Daniel Jeddman’s broader mission to use music as a tool to inspire hope, worship and faith while expanding his reach to audiences across Africa, Europe and beyond.
At least 12 people have been confirmed dead following a devastating three-vehicle road crash at Konongo-Odumase in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, leaving dozens of passengers injured and sending shockwaves across the country.
The fatal collision reportedly involved a Tata passenger bus, a DAF cargo truck loaded with tomatoes, and an empty fuel tanker. Preliminary reports indicate the cargo truck attempted to overtake another vehicle while descending a slope from Kumasi towards Accra before losing control and crashing head-on into the oncoming passenger bus.
Emergency personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Ghana Police Service, and the National Ambulance Service responded swiftly to rescue trapped victims from the wreckage. Authorities confirmed that 44 people sustained injuries, with about 30 reported to be in critical condition. The injured were transported to Asante Akyem Government Hospital and Steward Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over dangerous overtaking, speeding, and reckless driving on Ghana’s highways. Road safety advocates continue to call for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to reduce the increasing number of fatal crashes across the country.
Investigations into the exact cause of the accident remain ongoing as authorities work to determine all the circumstances that led to the deadly collision.
For more breaking stories from across the country, visit our Ghana News section, follow our Ghana News Live updates, and explore today’s Top Stories.
