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GFA Reforms After World Cup Disappointment: A Fresh Start for Ghana Football

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GFA Reforms After World Cup Disappointment: A Fresh Start for Ghana Football

In the wake of Ghana’s faltering performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and struggles during World Cup qualification, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has embarked on sweeping reforms aimed at restoring confidence in the national game.

A Wake-Up Call

Following the Black Stars’ exit from AFCON 2025 and failure to qualify for its final tournament in over 20 years, the GFA took decisive action. In November 2024, they dissolved the Management Committee overseeing the Black Stars and acknowledged the need to rebuild trust and effectiveness by inviting stakeholder input at a national football retreat at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Miotso.

Clubs Demand Change

Leading local clubs—Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak—have demanded major reforms. Their joint submission to the GFA called for improved matchday safety, including police and military presence at high-risk fixtures, transparent licensing, and autonomy over league administration.

What Reforms Look Like

Transparency & Governance: The GFA has released a roadmap for increased transparency, including public reporting on offsides, refereeing, and financials. A “Referee Oversight Task Force” will monitor officiating integrity. Security Overhaul: Matchday protocols now align with FIFA recommendations—security personnel redeployed from other regions, surveillance cameras are mandatory, and police deployments are standardized for top-tier matches (). Structural Reset: Under Executive Council member Nana Oduro Sarfo, the GFA is developing long-term strategic plans focused on rebuilding support structures for national teams and academies  . Youth & Infrastructure: Upgrades at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre include floodlights, modern dormitories, and resumption of national youth and women’s programs, offering a modern training environment.

Voices from the Field

• Kurt Okraku, GFA President, said reforms are vital: “The clarion call… we have to react positively as a family” during security upgrades and commissioner training.

• Otto Addo, coach of the Black Stars, welcomed structural changes, particularly the development of youth pathways essential for future World Cup and AFCON success.

• Clubs expressed cautious optimism. A Kotoko official described security reforms as “encouraging,” but stressed continued monitoring to ensure lasting impact.

• Sports analysts noted that without cultural change, reforms risk tokenism. A research report cited by Citi Newsroom suggests persistent issues with conflicts of interest unless governance is also addressed.

Public & Fan Reaction

Fans have met the reforms with mixed responses. Some see a new, accountable direction; others, disappointed with past broken promises, are awaiting tangible results. Social media debates surged, with one Reddit user lamenting, “the whole GFA needs a complete overhaul, it’s just rotten to the core”.

The Road Ahead

Implementation Timeline: GFA aims to enforce security and transparency reforms before the November 2025 domestic season. Performance Metrics: Progress will be measured by improvements in youth team results (U‑17, U‑20), better Black Stars standings, and reduced matchday incidents. Continued Scrutiny: With Ghana re-entering classic AFCON and World Cup qualifying cycles, the GFA’s actions will face tight observation from government bodies, sponsors, and international football authorities.

Final Whistle

Ghanaian football stands at a pivotal fork. After years of mismanagement and disappointing results, the GFA’s current reforms could mark a transformative era—if they are implemented sincerely and transparently. For fans, the promise is clear: a game rebuilt from the grassroots, for the grassroots.

From Ghana to the World: Aníkúlápó Sequel Films on Ghanaian Soils

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From Ghana to the World: Aníkúlápó Sequel Films on Ghanaian Soils

Ghana’s film landscape is lighting up as acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan rolls out parts of the sequel to his Netflix hit, Aníkúlápó, on Ghanaian terrain. The announcement underscores Ghana’s growing role in Africa’s cross-border cinematic collaborations.

A Historic Collaboration Begins

At the June 2024 Nigeria International Film & TV Summit in Cannes, Afolayan revealed that Season 2 of Aníkúlápó will be filmed partly in Ghana. Afolayan emphasized that Ghana’s scenic landscapes and production infrastructure were key draws  . National Film Authority (NFA) CEO Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante spearheaded the deal, championing Ghana’s “Shoot in Ghana” initiative designed to attract international productions and foster Ghana–Nigeria industry ties.

On-Site in Ghana: Scouting & Pre-Production

In July 2024, Afolayan was spotted scouting diverse Ghanaian locales—ranging from lush forests to historic sites—to align with Aníkúlápó’s epic fantasy aesthetic (). He highlighted Ghana’s scenic diversity and local technical capabilities, praising the visual prospects and logistical readiness.

Why Ghana? Beyond Scenery

Beyond its visual appeal, Ghana offers real economic and creative benefits:

Local jobs & skills transfer: Afolayan’s team, including his KAP Academy, is set to engage Ghanaian production assistants, craftsmen, set builders, and location scouts  . Infrastructure readiness: Ghana’s NFA has invested in facilities and regulatory support to simplify shooting permissions and build local capacity.

The collaboration signals a deepening partnership between Ghana and Nollywood—fueling economic growth in both film and tourism sectors.

Cast & Crew: A Pan-African Production

Season 2 will feature returning Nigerian stars like Sola Sobowale, Bimbo Ademoye, and Lateef Adedimeji, alongside new talents including Ghanaian actors—a further nod to Ghana’s creative inclusion  . With an estimated crew exceeding 600, the project promises significant crew expansion beyond Nigeria, offering Ghanaian industry players international-level exposure.

Cultural Synergy & Industry Growth

This move reflects deeper cultural resonance between Ghana and Nigeria. Afolayan stated, “Ghana is partly Nigeria, and Nigeria is partly Ghana,” underscoring shared history and creative potential  . NFA has leveraged this sentiment: Aníkúlápó potentially joins other international projects, like the Super Bowl ad shot in Ghana, in showcasing the country’s versatility as a global location.

Economic Ripple Effects

Tourism boost: Scenic exposure across travel platforms can drive interest in real-world Ghanaian destinations. Local spending: Catering, transport, accommodation, and construction spend will flow into Ghana’s creative ecosystem. Skill legacy: Mentorship and on-the-job training will create a new wave of skilled local professionals.

What to Expect Next

Filming reportedly began in September 2024 and will stretch into late 2025. With the initial four-episode Season 1 premiering March 2024 and staying in Netflix’s Top 10 in Nigeria for 10 weeks, expectations are high.

Afolayan views Season 2 as both cultural storytelling and continental partnership:

“This collaboration is a great win for both countries and Africa at large.” 

Significance for Ghana

Creative branding: Ghana cements its place as an international film destination. Industry momentum: High-profile projects can prompt local investment in studios, effects, and talent pipelines. Catalyst effect: With Ghana showing its value, more directors may follow Afolayan’s lead.

As Aníkúlápó’s cameras roll in Ghana, locals and industry stakeholders will be watching closely. If successful, this collaboration could redefine Ghana’s role in global film production—and affirm the broader vision behind “Shoot in Ghana.”

OliveTheBoy’s Rise – Ghana’s New Afrobeats Vanguard

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OliveTheBoy’s Rise – Ghana’s New Afrobeats Vanguard

At just 22, Joel Ofori Bonsu—better known as OliveTheBoy—is sprinting ahead as Ghana’s next major Afrobeats phenomenon. His breakout single, Goodsin, has shattered records, firmly positioning him among West Africa’s hottest emerging talents.

OliverTheBoy

From Konongo to the Charts

Born October 19, 2002, in Konongo in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, OliveTheBoy comes from a musically inclined family. After graduating from Opoku Ware Senior High School and later enrolling at the University of Ghana and KNUST, he launched his music career around 2020.

The Goodsin Effect

Released in May 2023, Goodsin rocked the charts—becoming Ghana’s most streamed artist in the first half of 2023, according to Chartmetrics, topping platforms like Spotify, YouTube and TikTok  . The song hit 10 million streams in record time, and King Promise, Oxlade, and Reekado Banks later joined its deluxe remix.

Streaming Powerhouse

Beyond Goodsin, his EP Avana (2023), its deluxe version (2024), and his sophomore EP Out of the Blue (2025) have kept momentum high. He now boasts over 100 million streams on Audiomack and is a two-time TGMA Afrobeat Song of the Year winner  . Recognitions like Apple Music’s “Up Next” and “Africa Now” (2023–25), and a Columbia Records deal—through Bu Vision—cement his rising global profile.

Musical Style & Team

OliveTheBoy deftly blends highlife, Afropop, R&B, and hip‑hop. Producer Beatz Vampire, who has crafted hits for Shatta Wale and Mr. Drew, shaped Goodsin with a groove-driven, emotive sound  . Lyrically, his songs weave themes of love, ambition, and youth.

Cultural Impact

His TikTok challenges went viral, turning Goodsin into one of the platform’s longest-trending Ghanaian tracks  . This resonance with younger audiences has helped redefine Ghana’s Afrobeats image—from traditional highlife roots to a fresh, cosmopolitan vibe.

Regional & International Buzz

OliveTheBoy has earned recognition beyond Ghana. He was named one of Africa’s top creatives under 21 in 2023 and featured regularly on West African playlists  . His remix EP included features from Nigerian heavyweights, signaling interest across the Afrobeats circuit.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead to 2025, OliveTheBoy has hinted at a wider rollout of Out of the Blue, with collaborations still anticipated. His management team is preparing for a regional tour, aiming to reach diaspora audiences in Europe and North America. The artist himself shared optimism recently:

“I want my music to connect—across borders, languages, stories.”

Significance for Ghana

OliveTheBoy embodies a new wave of Ghanaian talents reshaping Afrobeats on a global stage. His success boosts local industry stakeholders—from producers to promoters—and generates meaningful international buzz. As platforms like Spotify and Columbia invest in him, Ghana’s music ecosystem stands to gain:

Increased export potential—more attention from global labels and sync opportunities. Inspiration for young talents—his journey shows that artists from small towns can go global. Cultural branding—he advances a modern yet authentically Ghanaian identity in global music.

If OliveTheBoy delivers on his growing promise, he’ll not only be a personal star—but a key player in Ghana’s musical rebrand.

Constitutional Crisis in Ghana: Suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo Sparks Fierce Debate

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Constitutional Crisis in Ghana: Suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo Sparks Fierce Debate

In an unprecedented constitutional move, President John Dramani Mahama has suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, igniting a storm of political backlash, legal scrutiny, and public unrest. The action, executed under Article 146 of Ghana’s 1992 constitution, marks the first-ever suspension of a Chief Justice and has sparked urgent discourse about the balance of power and judicial independence in Ghana.

Immediate Shockwaves

Mahama’s announcement, issued via a terse press statement, gave no details on the grounds—merely citing three undisclosed petitions that formed a “prima facie” case against the Chief Justice  . Within hours, the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) demanded immediate reversal, declaring the suspension unconstitutional under Articles 146 and 296 and decrying the lack of published regulations governing such a move.

Political Firestorm

Opposition leaders denounced the action as a blatant power play:

Justin Frimpong-Kodua (NPP) branded it “absurd, repugnant and unconstitutional,” warning it threatens Ghana’s democratic progress  . The New Patriotic Party (NPP) rallied supporters in red-and-black protests in Accra, decrying the action as a “judicial coup” and demanding Torkornoo’s reinstatement.

Meanwhile, President Mahama’s camp defended the move as informed by constitutional necessity, asserting the formation of a proper committee following counsel from the Council of State.

Investigative Committee Assembled

Under the constitution, Mahama constituted a five-member committee, led by Supreme Court Judge Gabriel Pwamang and comprising Justice Samuel Adibu-Asiedu, ex-Auditor General Daniel Domelevo, military officer Major Flora Dalugo, and academic Prof. James Sefah-Dzisah  . Their task: to examine the petitions and determine whether grounds exist for removal.

Legal and Public Concern

Chief Justice Torkornoo, in a May 21 Supreme Court motion, sought an interlocutory injunction halting the committee’s proceedings—and challenging the suspension warrant itself—as unconstitutional.

Civil society voices, including the Centre for Democratic Movement, warned that bypassing due procedures weakens democratic institutions and erodes public trust in the judiciary  . Legal observer Nana Karikari pointed out the deep constitutional dilemma and its implications for separation of powers.

Regional Fallout

Ghana’s reputation as a democratic model in West Africa is now under scrutiny. Analysts warn the episode could tarnish investor confidence and regional credibility if state interference in the judiciary becomes normalized.

What Lies Ahead

Key developments to monitor include:

Committee Hearings: Will the process respect transparency, due process, and constitutional safeguards? Judicial Review: The Supreme Court will rule on Torkornoo’s injunction against the committee’s work. ECOWAS Appeal: Torkornoo has escalated to the ECOWAS Court in Abuja, alleging human rights violations related to her suspension.

Stakes for Ghana’s Democracy

This crisis is more than a judicial test—it’s a referendum on Ghana’s democratic resilience. Following decades of institutional consolidation, the judiciary now stands at a crossroads. The outcome—whether procedures are respected and checks maintained—will shape Ghana’s democratic trajectory for years to come.

Electoral Flashpoint in Accra: Violence and Arrests Mar Ablekuma North Rerun

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Electoral Flashpoint in Accra: Violence and Arrests Mar Ablekuma North Rerun

Accra, July 11, 2025 — A parliamentary rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency descended into chaos on July 11, as violent skirmishes erupted across multiple polling stations, leaving journalists, candidates, and security personnel injured and raising urgent questions about Ghana’s electoral safeguards.

Tensions Explode at Polling Stations

At St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church, a group of unidentified “macho men” stormed the precinct, triggering panic. Former Fisheries Minister Hawa Koomson and NPP candidate Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie were assaulted amid scuffles. Channel One News reporter Jude Duncan described the scene as “absolute bonkers!” as assailants aggressively disrupted voting procedures.

Press Freedom Under Fire

Meanwhile, media personnel covering the rerun were targeted. A viral video captured a uniformed police officer assaulting GHOne TV journalist Kwabena Agyekum Banahene at Church of Pentecost North Odorkor Polling Station 2. One punch was enough to spark outrage. “He just came to approach me … and he slapped me in the face for no reason,” Banahene recounted.

Two other journalists were also attacked: multimedia reporter Salomey Martey was slapped and shoved by a masked man, while Vida Wiafe of Amansan TV was pepper-sprayed, losing consciousness  . The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) condemned the assaults and urged a transparent criminal investigation.

Swift Police Response

The Ghana Police Service moved quickly, interdicted the offending officer, and referred him to the Police Professional Standards Bureau for investigation  . The National Peace Council praised the swift action and called for calm, urging political stakeholders to exercise restraint.

Political Fallout

The Minority Caucus in Parliament blamed NDC operatives for inciting the violence, naming individuals allegedly coordinating disturbances—and accused police of complacency  . Meanwhile, government officials condemned the incidents as “regrettable and unacceptable,” and said they would pursue those disrupting electoral peace.

Undermining Democracy

Observers argue that such violence strikes at the heart of Ghana’s democratic integrity. The rerun, designed to resolve disputes from the December 2024 general election, was meant to reaffirm due process—but its eruption into disorder suggests deeper systemic fragilities.

Voices from the Ground

Journalist Banahene, visibly shaken, stated he feared for his safety and will file an official complaint. Ghanaian media watchdogs have called for enhanced protection of journalists in election periods. The GJA and Media Foundation for West Africa are pushing for clear legal repercussions to deter future abuses  .

What Comes Next

With reruns ongoing in 19 polling stations, authorities must now contend with pressing questions:

Will perpetrators, whether “macho men” or police, face swift justice? Can remaining voting proceed under safe, calm conditions? How will incidents affect overall public trust ahead of upcoming national elections?

The outcome of investigations—especially the GJA’s criminal probe request—and prosecution of offenders will be crucial in demonstrating Ghana’s commitment to free, fair, and peaceful democratic processes.

Tottenham’s £55 Million Gamble: Mohammed Kudus Arrives in London

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Tottenham’s £55 Million Gamble: Mohammed Kudus Arrives in London

London, July 11, 2025 — Tottenham Hotspur have completed the blockbuster signing of Ghanaian international Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United for a fee of around £55 million, reportedly spread over three years, with a six‑year contract through to 2031.

A Statement Move

This acquisition ends a 14‑year drought of direct transfers between the two London rivals — the last such move being Scott Parker’s move to Spurs in 2011  . It underscores Tottenham Manager Thomas Frank’s intent to elevate the club’s attacking potency.

Stats & Style: What Spurs Get

Over two Premier League seasons at West Ham (2023–25), Kudus recorded 13 goals and 12 assists  . His versatility—able to play as an attacking midfielder or right winger—combined with his electric pace and agility, makes him a perfect fit for Frank’s dynamic playstyle.

Clearing the Air

Fans may recall Kudus received a five-match ban following a red card in an ill-tempered clash with now-teammates Micky van de Ven and Pape Sarr in October 2024  . Tottenham have quickly defused any lingering tension: midfielder James Maddison posted a playful Instagram video, and the club released a lighthearted TikTok of Kudus and Van de Ven shaking hands over lunch.

London, July 11, 2025 — Tottenham Hotspur have completed the blockbuster signing of Ghanaian international Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United for a fee of around £55 million, reportedly spread over three years, with a six‑year contract through to 2031.

A Statement Move

This acquisition ends a 14‑year drought of direct transfers between the two London rivals — the last such move being Scott Parker’s move to Spurs in 2011  . It underscores Tottenham Manager Thomas Frank’s intent to elevate the club’s attacking potency.

Stats & Style: What Spurs Get

Over two Premier League seasons at West Ham (2023–25), Kudus recorded 13 goals and 12 assists. His versatility—able to play as an attacking midfielder or right winger—combined with his electric pace and agility, makes him a perfect fit for Frank’s dynamic playstyle.

Clearing the Air

Fans may recall Kudus received a five-match ban following a red card in an ill-tempered clash with now-teammates Micky van de Ven and Pape Sarr in October 2024  . Tottenham have quickly defused any lingering tension: midfielder James Maddison posted a playful Instagram video, and the club released a lighthearted TikTok of Kudus and Van de Ven shaking hands over lunch.

Player Perspective

Kudus, who turns 25 in August, emphasized Tottenham’s project and Frank’s reputation:

“I only wanted Spurs… With the history [Frank has with player development]… it’s why I wanted to work under him.” 

He acknowledges a dip in output last season—5 goals in 32 Prem games—yet is confident he’ll regain form in London.

Bigger Picture

The summer window has been fierce: Tottenham also secured Mathys Tel and defender Kota Takai. Meanwhile, Spurs are still pursuing Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs‑White, although Forest has lodged a complaint with the Premier League over Spurs’ approach.

Reaction & Expectations

Tottenham supporters are energized—believing Kudus can add flair, unpredictability, and Champions League quality to a squad already reshaped by six-year veterans. If the move pays off, Spurs may finally challenge on multiple fronts.

What’s Next?

Kudus will join pre-season training later this week and could debut in Spurs’ July 26 friendly vs. Paris Saint-Germain in Singapore. His impact this season may well define whether Tottenham’s £55 million splurge was a justified investment—or a costly gamble.

Vibrant Rath Yatra Celebrations in Accra Highlight Cultural Harmony

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Vibrant Rath Yatra Celebrations in Accra Highlight Cultural Harmony

Over 1,000 devotees gathered along the Accra–Kumasi Highway to participate in the 14th annual Rath Yatra, a Hindu chariot festival organised by the Utkal Ghana Association and Shree Jagannath Temple.

The colourful procession commenced at 8:45 am with traditional Pahandi and Chhera Pahanra rituals. Odissi dancers performed gracefully, offering praise through bhajans on the journey. Devotees received free Mahaprasad meals—aromatically rich and spiritually meaningful—for free.

Tapan Kumar Panda, UGA’s joint secretary, expressed gratitude and emphasised how the festival fosters unity and cultural understanding in Ghana’s multi-ethnic landscape  . The event was also a reminder of Ghana’s vibrant multicultural tapestry.

Ghana Strikes Gas Deal with Eni to Boost Energy Supply

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Ghana Strikes Gas Deal with Eni to Boost Energy Supply

In a move to shore up energy security, Ghana’s Ministry of Energy and Italian company Eni have agreed to increase the country’s natural gas supply by 30 million standard cubic feet per day, effective from July 13, 2025.

The additional gas will feed thermal plants and industrial facilities, easing recent power stress in industrial zones and addressing frequent load-shedding episodes. It’s the latest in Ghana’s broader energy diversification strategy that includes LNG, renewables, and infrastructure expansion.

Industry experts note that alongside the IMF-supported reforms—which aim to stabilise and attract investment—the gas deal marks a positive step for Ghana’s economic development. It demonstrates the country’s commitment to international partnerships in securing its energy future.

IMF Greenlights $367 M Disbursement to Ghana

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IMF Greenlights $367 M Disbursement to Ghana

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved a $367 million disbursement to Ghana, marking the completion of the fourth review under the country’s $3 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement from May 2023.

This tranche brings total disbursements to approximately $2.3 billion, supporting Ghana’s macroeconomic stabilisation efforts—an improved economic outlook, higher reserves, and a strengthened cedi.

Recent figures show Ghana’s GDP grew 5.3% year-on-year in Q1 2025, driven by agriculture and mining, outperforming the 4.9% from Q1 2024  . The IMF forecasts a current account surplus of 1.8% of GDP by year-end.

While public debt remains high, the IMF emphasises ongoing fiscal consolidation, primary balance surplus targets, and debt restructuring as key to sustainable finances  . The latest funds will also bolster infrastructure, social services, and give the BoG flexibility for monetary policy.

The IMF praised Ghana’s government for firm reform commitments following the December 2024 elections, contrasting past setbacks.

Cocoa Output in Ghana Faces Worrying Decline

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Cocoa Output in Ghana Faces Worrying Decline

A concerning forecast has emerged: West Africa, including Ghana, is anticipated to see a 10% drop in cocoa production during the 2025/26 season, due to climate variability, disease, ageing trees, and spillover impacts from gold smuggling and mining.

Ghana’s cocoa yield has nearly halved from over 1 million tonnes to potentially just 500,000 tonnes. Although regulators foresee a modest recovery to 600,000 tonnes, experts doubt this is feasible without aggressive interventions  . Cocoa farmers are grappling with flower mortality and pest infestations, especially in early summer.

The situation takes on national significance: Ghana is the world’s second-largest cocoa producer. A slump in output risks higher costs for local farmers, lower foreign exchange earnings, and threatens domestic processing plants. Global cocoa prices surged, prompting profit marginally despite lower harvests, but inflation in consumer markets could follow.

Stakeholders call for robust responses—government-backed programmes to renew old trees, disease-resilient seedlings, aggressive pest control funding, and vulnerable farmers’ economic support. Delay could undermine Ghana’s longstanding lead in the global cocoa industry.

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