Accra, Ghana
<meta content="uuidQIzxXG5snk9D" name="uuid"/>Ghana's Supreme Court on Wednesday paved the way for a contested bill severely curtailing LGBTQ rights to become law after rejecting two bids to overturn it.
Lawmakers approved the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill in February, drawing international condemnation despite gaining wide public support in the conservative West African country.
The proposed anti-LGBTQ legislation is considered among the most stringent in Africa, stipulating jail terms of up to three years for engaging in same-sex relations and up to five years for promoting or sponsoring LGBTQ activities.
The bill will only become law after being ratified by the outgoing president Nana Akufo-Addo or his successor, John Mahama.
Akufo-Addo, who officially stepped down on January 7 after two terms in office, has not yet announced his decision.
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He had said he would first await the Supreme Court's ruling on the bill's constitutionality. 
Opposition leader Mahama, who won the December 7 elections, voiced support for the anti-LGBTQ bill during the electoral campaign.
Gay sex is already illegal in the religious, mostly Christian nation, but while discrimination against LGBTQ people is common, no one has ever been prosecuted under the colonial-era law.
<h2>Fears for finances </h2>
"It will be premature for this court to exercise its interpretive and enforcement jurisdiction to intervene. Consequently, the action fails," Judge Avril Lovelace-Johnson, head of the court's seven-member panel said, reading its judgement.
"Until there is presidential assent to the bill, there is no act of which the Supreme Court will use its supervisory jurisdiction to overturn," she added.
The court's ruling followed cases filed by Ghanaian broadcaster Richard Dela-Sky, who challenged the constitutionality of the bill, and university researcher Amanda Odoi.
Odoi had sought to block the sending of the bill to the president for ratification.
The bill was initially introduced into parliament in 2021, but the vote faced delays.
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It sparked criticism from the United Nations and several countries, including the United States, as well as concern from Ghana's finance ministry, which warned of a risk of losing billions of dollars in World Bank funding.
Ghana fears it could face the same fate as Uganda, which last year passed one of the harshest anti-gay laws in the world.
The World Bank froze lending to Uganda in the wake of the law, which imposes penalties of up to life in prison for consensual same-sex relations and contains provisions that make "aggravated homosexuality" an offence punishable by death.
Ghana is emerging from its worst economic crisis in decades and is also under a $3 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund.
United Nations rights chief Volker Turk condemned the passing of the bill in February, saying that consensual same-sex conduct should never be criminalised.
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Around 60 countries in the world ban same-sex relations, about half of them are in Africa, according to the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA).
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lawmakers approved the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill in February, drawing international condemnation despite gaining wide public support in the conservative West African country.



Accra, Ghana Ghana's Supreme Court on Wednesday paved the way for a contested bill severely curtailing LGBTQ rights to become law after rejecting two bids to overturn it. Lawmakers approved the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill in February, drawing international condemnation despite gaining wide public support in the conservative West African country. The proposed anti-LGBTQ legislation is considered among the most stringent in Africa, stipulating jail terms of up to three years for engaging in same-sex relations and up to five years for promoting or sponsoring LGBTQ activities. The bill will only become law after being ratified by the outgoing president Nana Akufo-Addo or his successor, John Mahama. Akufo-Addo, who officially stepped down on January 7 after two terms in office, has not yet announced his decision. Watch | Oman Stops New Import Permits For Indian Chicken Eggs He had said he would first await the Supreme Court's ruling on the bill's constitutionality. Opposition leader Mahama, who won the December 7 elections, voiced support for the anti-LGBTQ bill during the electoral campaign. Gay sex is already illegal in the religious, mostly Christian nation, but while discrimination against LGBTQ people is common, no one has ever been prosecuted under the colonial-era law. Fears for finances "It will be premature for this court to exercise its interpretive and enforcement jurisdiction to intervene. Consequently, the action fails," Judge Avril Lovelace-Johnson, head of the court's seven-member panel said, reading its judgement. "Until there is presidential assent to the bill, there is no act of which the Supreme Court will use its supervisory jurisdiction to overturn," she added. The court's ruling followed cases filed by Ghanaian broadcaster Richard Dela-Sky, who challenged the constitutionality of the bill, and university researcher Amanda Odoi. Odoi had sought to block the sending of the bill to the president for ratification. The bill was initially introduced into parliament in 2021, but the vote faced delays. Also read | Trump says US subsidies to Canada make no sense, suggests Canada become 51st US state It sparked criticism from the United Nations and several countries, including the United States, as well as concern from Ghana's finance ministry, which warned of a risk of losing billions of dollars in World Bank funding. Ghana fears it could face the same fate as Uganda, which last year passed one of the harshest anti-gay laws in the world. The World Bank froze lending to Uganda in the wake of the law, which imposes penalties of up to life in prison for consensual same-sex relations and contains provisions that make "aggravated homosexuality" an offence punishable by death. Ghana is emerging from its worst economic crisis in decades and is also under a $3 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund. United Nations rights chief Volker Turk condemned the passing of the bill in February, saying that consensual same-sex conduct should never be criminalised. Also read | Virginia man dies after bear in tree shot by his partner falls on him Around 60 countries in the world ban same-sex relations, about half of them are in Africa, according to the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA). Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ghana's Supreme Court paves way for anti-LGBTQ law

Ghana's Supreme Court on Wednesday paved the way for a contested bill severely curtailing LGBTQ rights to become law after rejecting two bids to overturn it. Lawmakers approved the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill in February, drawing international condemnation despite gaining wide public support in the conservative West African country.

Ghana's Supreme Court on Wednesday paved the way for a contested bill severely curtailing LGBTQ rights to become law after rejecting two bids to overturn it. Lawmakers approved the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill in February, drawing international condemnation despite gaining wide public support in the conservative West African country. The proposed anti-LGBTQ legislation is considered among the most stringent in Africa, stipulating jail terms of up to three years for engaging in same-sex relations and up to five years for promoting or sponsoring LGBTQ activities. The bill will only become law after being ratified by the outgoing president Nana Akufo-Addo or his successor, John Mahama. Akufo-Addo, who officially stepped down on January 7 after two terms in office, has not yet announced his decision. Watch | Oman Stops New Import Permits For Indian Chicken Eggs He had said he would first await the Supreme Court's ruling on the bill's constitutionality. Opposition leader Mahama, who won the December 7 elections, voiced support for the anti-LGBTQ bill during the electoral campaign. Gay sex is already illegal in the religious, mostly Christian nation, but while discrimination against LGBTQ people is common, no one has ever been prosecuted under the colonial-era law. Fears for finances "It will be premature for this court to exercise its interpretive and enforcement jurisdiction to intervene. Consequently, the action fails," Judge Avril Lovelace-Johnson, head of the court's seven-member panel said, reading its judgement. "Until there is presidential assent to the bill, there is no act of which the Supreme Court will use its supervisory jurisdiction to overturn," she added. The court's ruling followed cases filed by Ghanaian broadcaster Richard Dela-Sky, who challenged the constitutionality of the bill, and university researcher Amanda Odoi. Odoi had sought to block the sending of the bill to the president for ratification. The bill was initially introduced into parliament in 2021, but the vote faced delays. Also read | Trump says US subsidies to Canada make no sense, suggests Canada become 51st US state It sparked criticism from the United Nations and several countries, including the United States, as well as concern from Ghana's finance ministry, which warned of a risk of losing billions of dollars in World Bank funding. Ghana fears it could face the same fate as Uganda, which last year passed one of the harshest anti-gay laws in the world. The World Bank froze lending to Uganda in the wake of the law, which imposes penalties of up to life in prison for consensual same-sex relations and contains provisions that make "aggravated homosexuality" an offence punishable by death. Ghana is emerging from its worst economic crisis in decades and is also under a $3 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund. United Nations rights chief Volker Turk condemned the passing of the bill in February, saying that consensual same-sex conduct should never be criminalised. Also read | Virginia man dies after bear in tree shot by his partner falls on him Around 60 countries in the world ban same-sex relations, about half of them are in Africa, according to the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA). Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

New Delhi
Ghana's newly elected president, John Mahama, said a funding arrangement with the International Monetary Fund will constrain his administration's capacity to implement quick substantial reforms. This follows a recent electoral victory that granted him a significant mandate to address the country's severe debt crisis and high inflation. 
Last year, the West African nation requested assistance from the IMF after defaulting on debt that had escalated to about 100 per cent of its gross domestic product by the end of 2022. The government is required to attain a primary budget surplus of 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product by the end of this year. 
This is as stipulated under the IMF program. Mahama said, "What it means is that the budgets must align with the IMF program, so there's not much leverage in there for making the kind of radical reforms that you might immediately need to make.” He added, "We already have requested some discussion with the IMF because we're not part of the negotiation of this program." 
Last week, the IMF indicated its willingness to renegotiate Ghana's $3 billion loan agreement with the next administration, contingent on the preservation of associated reforms. Mahama reaffirmed his previous stance of retaining the program. But he indicated potential adjustments to enhance economic stability, given that inflation reached 23 per cent at the end of November. 
Mahama said, "Bringing down inflation is the number one priority. Stabilizing the currency is number two. Bringing the deficit down, cutting expenditure, increasing revenues — i mean, those are the things that we need to be looking at."

Last year, the West African nation requested assistance from the IMF after defaulting on debt that had escalated to about 100 per cent of its gross domestic product by the end of 2022. The government is required to attain a primary budget surplus of 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product by the end of this year. 



New Delhi Ghana's newly elected president, John Mahama, said a funding arrangement with the International Monetary Fund will constrain his administration's capacity to implement quick substantial reforms. This follows a recent electoral victory that granted him a significant mandate to address the country's severe debt crisis and high inflation. Last year, the West African nation requested assistance from the IMF after defaulting on debt that had escalated to about 100 per cent of its gross domestic product by the end of 2022. The government is required to attain a primary budget surplus of 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product by the end of this year. This is as stipulated under the IMF program. Mahama said, "What it means is that the budgets must align with the IMF program, so there's not much leverage in there for making the kind of radical reforms that you might immediately need to make.” He added, "We already have requested some discussion with the IMF because we're not part of the negotiation of this program." Last week, the IMF indicated its willingness to renegotiate Ghana's $3 billion loan agreement with the next administration, contingent on the preservation of associated reforms. Mahama reaffirmed his previous stance of retaining the program. But he indicated potential adjustments to enhance economic stability, given that inflation reached 23 per cent at the end of November. Mahama said, "Bringing down inflation is the number one priority. Stabilizing the currency is number two. Bringing the deficit down, cutting expenditure, increasing revenues — i mean, those are the things that we need to be looking at."

Ghana's president-elect says IMF deal to cap radical reforms

Ghana's newly elected President, John Mahama, said a funding arrangement with the international monetary fund will constrain his administration's capacity to implement quick substantial reforms. This follows a recent electoral victory that granted him a significant mandate to address the country's severe debt crisis and high inflation.

Ghana's President-elect Says IMF Deal to Cap Radical Reforms

Ghana's newly elected President, John Mahama, said a funding arrangement with the international monetary fund will constrain his administration's capacity to implement quick substantial reforms. This follows a recent electoral victory that granted him a significant mandate to address the country's severe debt crisis and high inflation.



Ghana's newly elected president, John Mahama, said a funding arrangement with the International Monetary Fund will constrain his administration's capacity to implement quick substantial reforms. This follows a recent electoral victory that granted him a significant mandate to address the country's severe debt crisis and high inflation.&nbsp;

Last year, the West African nation requested assistance from the IMF after defaulting on debt that had escalated to about 100 per cent of its gross domestic product by the end of 2022. The government is required to attain a primary budget surplus of 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product by the end of this year.&nbsp;

This is as stipulated under the IMF program. Mahama said, "What it means is that the budgets must align with the IMF program, so there's not much leverage in there for making the kind of radical reforms that you might immediately need to make.” He added, "We already have requested some discussion with the IMF because we're not part of the negotiation of this program."&nbsp;

Last week, the IMF indicated its willingness to renegotiate Ghana's $3 billion loan agreement with the next administration, contingent on the preservation of associated reforms. Mahama reaffirmed his previous stance of retaining the program. But he indicated potential adjustments to enhance economic stability, given that inflation reached 23 per cent at the end of November.&nbsp;

Mahama said, "Bringing down inflation is the number one priority. Stabilizing the currency is number two. Bringing the deficit down, cutting expenditure, increasing revenues — i mean, those are the things that we need to be looking at."&nbsp;

Ghana's newly elected president, John Mahama, said a funding arrangement with the International Monetary Fund will constrain his administration's capacity to implement quick substantial reforms.

Ghana's newly elected president, John Mahama, said a funding arrangement with the International Monetary Fund will constrain his administration's capacity to implement quick substantial reforms. This follows a recent electoral victory that granted him a significant mandate to address the country's severe debt crisis and high inflation. Last year, the West African nation requested assistance from the IMF after defaulting on debt that had escalated to about 100 per cent of its gross domestic product by the end of 2022. The government is required to attain a primary budget surplus of 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product by the end of this year. This is as stipulated under the IMF program. Mahama said, "What it means is that the budgets must align with the IMF program, so there's not much leverage in there for making the kind of radical reforms that you might immediately need to make.” He added, "We already have requested some discussion with the IMF because we're not part of the negotiation of this program." Last week, the IMF indicated its willingness to renegotiate Ghana's $3 billion loan agreement with the next administration, contingent on the preservation of associated reforms. Mahama reaffirmed his previous stance of retaining the program. But he indicated potential adjustments to enhance economic stability, given that inflation reached 23 per cent at the end of November. Mahama said, "Bringing down inflation is the number one priority. Stabilizing the currency is number two. Bringing the deficit down, cutting expenditure, increasing revenues — i mean, those are the things that we need to be looking at."

Ghana’s former president, John Dramani Mahama, has achieved a historic comeback by securing victory in the presidential election. Voters appeared to express dissatisfaction with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its handling of the country’s economic challenges. The NPP candidate, Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat on Sunday following the weekend's election. The results underscore widespread frustration with soaring living costs and economic instability. Watch to know more!

Ghana: Former President John Dramani Mahama Wins Presidential Election

Ghana’s former president, John Dramani Mahama, has achieved a historic comeback by securing victory in the presidential election. Voters expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its handling of the country’s economic challenges. The NPP candidate, Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat on Sunday following the weekend's election. The results underscore widespread frustration with soaring living costs and economic instability. Watch to know more!

Ghana: Former President John Dramani Mahama Wins Presidential Election | World News | WION

Ghana: Ex-president John Mahama Set To Return After Rival Concedes Election | World News | WION

Polls opened in presidential and legislative elections in Ghana Saturday, poised to be a litmus test for democracy in a region shaken by extremist violence and coups. Watch for more details!

Polls Open in General Election in Ghana Amid Economic Crisis

Ghanaians voted in elections on Saturday with frontrunners Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP ruling party and opposition NDC party ex-president John Mahama facing off in a tight race for the country's top post.

Ghana's struggling economy dominated the election after the West African gold and cacao producer went through a debt default, high inflation and negotiations for a $3 billion IMF bailout.

Voters are choosing a successor to President Nana Akufo-Addo, who steps down after his allowed two, four-year terms, and they will also elect the country's new parliament.

Early morning turnout appeared fairly slow in parts of the capital Accra, but steady in other neighbourhoods with the streets of the capital calm. Muslim women in colourful headscarves waited on wooden benches in the Nima district while students and shop workers cast their ballots in middle-class Stayaways. &nbsp;

"We want to vote for change, the economic situation is very hard," retired policeman James Nsiah said, waiting to cast his ballot at a booth in the Jamestown area of Accra.

Watch |&nbsp;Ghana Votes: What's At Stake In The Dec. 7 Polls

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Polling closes at 1700 GMT and counting will start immediately. Early results are expected on Sunday with full presidential results scheduled by Tuesday.

With a history of political stability, Ghana's two main parties, the current ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC), have alternated in power almost equally since the return to multi-party democracy in 1992.

Touting a slogan "Break the 8" -- a reference to the usual two, four-year terms in power -- the NPP hopes Bawumia can lead them to an unprecedented third term in office. But he struggled to break away from criticism of Akufo-Addo's economic record.

Wearing a traditional white smock, Bawumia voted early on Saturday in his hometown of Walewale in the north of Ghana.

"I am very hopeful of winning this election," he told reporters. "I think we have done a lot of work with our message to the people and the message has been well received."

A UK-educated economist and former central banker, he points to an economy turning a corner and the government's continued plans for digitalisation to ease business as well as free education and health programs.

Ghana's government temporarily closed all land borders on Friday night through Sunday to "ensure the integrity" of the vote, an interior ministry statement said.

One man was arrested in possession of a weapon at an Accra polling station, Ghana Police said. &nbsp;

<h2>Economic frustrations&nbsp;</h2>

Inflation slowed from more than 50 per cent to around 23 per cent, and other macroeconomic indicators are stabilising after the debt restructuring and the IMF deal. But many Ghanaians still say they struggle with costs of living and scarce jobs and a depreciated cedi currency.

Frustration over the economy has opened the way for a comeback challenge from opposition candidate Mahama, who was president from 2012 to 2017 but who has since failed twice in presidential bids.

The NDC flag-bearer says he will "reset" Ghana and introduce a "24-hour economy", extending industrial hours to create jobs and more production and also renegotiate parts of the IMF deal.

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"Other elections have not been as obvious," Mahama said voting in his northern hometown. "With this one everybody can tell the direction because of the abysmal performance of the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government."

Some analysts gave him an edge because of voter dismay with NPP economics, but the former president faced criticism from those who remember financial woes and massive power cuts during his time in office.

First-time voter and visual arts student Abdullah Mohammed, 19, said he may have benefited from Akufo-Addo's free high school programme, but he saw the need for change with high costs weighing on families.

"I just want a good president who will bring changes. I don't really care if it is Bawumia or Mahama," he said in Accra's Nima district.

Shoe saleswoman Esther Adobea said the economic situation was on her mind, but she was willing to give Bawumia a chance to make things better.

"I can see he can handle the country for us. Our economy is not good but he can do better," she said in the Ayawaso area.

Both major candidates are from the north of the country -- traditionally an NDC stronghold, but now more fragmented -- making the region a key battleground.

While the economy was key, Ghana also faces an increasing risk of spillover in its northern regions from jihadist conflicts in Niger and Burkina Faso, where military juntas rule after coups.

The spread of illegal gold mining also became an election issue. Akufo-Addo promised to stop illegal mining, but it has expanded, poisoning riverways and impacting cacao farmlands -- a major source of export income.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Ghanaians voted in elections on Saturday with frontrunners Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP ruling party and opposition NDC party ex-president John Mahama facing off in a tight race for the country's top post.

Ghanaians voted in elections on Saturday with frontrunners Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP ruling party and opposition NDC party ex-president John Mahama facing off in a tight race for the country's top post. Ghana's struggling economy dominated the election after the West African gold and cacao producer went through a debt default, high inflation and negotiations for a $3 billion IMF bailout. Voters are choosing a successor to President Nana Akufo-Addo, who steps down after his allowed two, four-year terms, and they will also elect the country's new parliament. Early morning turnout appeared fairly slow in parts of the capital Accra, but steady in other neighbourhoods with the streets of the capital calm. Muslim women in colourful headscarves waited on wooden benches in the Nima district while students and shop workers cast their ballots in middle-class Stayaways. "We want to vote for change, the economic situation is very hard," retired policeman James Nsiah said, waiting to cast his ballot at a booth in the Jamestown area of Accra. Watch | Ghana Votes: What's At Stake In The Dec. 7 Polls × Polling closes at 1700 GMT and counting will start immediately. Early results are expected on Sunday with full presidential results scheduled by Tuesday. With a history of political stability, Ghana's two main parties, the current ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC), have alternated in power almost equally since the return to multi-party democracy in 1992. Touting a slogan "Break the 8" -- a reference to the usual two, four-year terms in power -- the NPP hopes Bawumia can lead them to an unprecedented third term in office. But he struggled to break away from criticism of Akufo-Addo's economic record. Wearing a traditional white smock, Bawumia voted early on Saturday in his hometown of Walewale in the north of Ghana. "I am very hopeful of winning this election," he told reporters. "I think we have done a lot of work with our message to the people and the message has been well received." A UK-educated economist and former central banker, he points to an economy turning a corner and the government's continued plans for digitalisation to ease business as well as free education and health programs. Ghana's government temporarily closed all land borders on Friday night through Sunday to "ensure the integrity" of the vote, an interior ministry statement said. One man was arrested in possession of a weapon at an Accra polling station, Ghana Police said. Economic frustrations Inflation slowed from more than 50 per cent to around 23 per cent, and other macroeconomic indicators are stabilising after the debt restructuring and the IMF deal. But many Ghanaians still say they struggle with costs of living and scarce jobs and a depreciated cedi currency. Frustration over the economy has opened the way for a comeback challenge from opposition candidate Mahama, who was president from 2012 to 2017 but who has since failed twice in presidential bids. The NDC flag-bearer says he will "reset" Ghana and introduce a "24-hour economy", extending industrial hours to create jobs and more production and also renegotiate parts of the IMF deal. Also Read | South Korean presidential impeachment motion fails, says National Assembly speaker "Other elections have not been as obvious," Mahama said voting in his northern hometown. "With this one everybody can tell the direction because of the abysmal performance of the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government." Some analysts gave him an edge because of voter dismay with NPP economics, but the former president faced criticism from those who remember financial woes and massive power cuts during his time in office. First-time voter and visual arts student Abdullah Mohammed, 19, said he may have benefited from Akufo-Addo's free high school programme, but he saw the need for change with high costs weighing on families. "I just want a good president who will bring changes. I don't really care if it is Bawumia or Mahama," he said in Accra's Nima district. Shoe saleswoman Esther Adobea said the economic situation was on her mind, but she was willing to give Bawumia a chance to make things better. "I can see he can handle the country for us. Our economy is not good but he can do better," she said in the Ayawaso area. Both major candidates are from the north of the country -- traditionally an NDC stronghold, but now more fragmented -- making the region a key battleground. While the economy was key, Ghana also faces an increasing risk of spillover in its northern regions from jihadist conflicts in Niger and Burkina Faso, where military juntas rule after coups. The spread of illegal gold mining also became an election issue. Akufo-Addo promised to stop illegal mining, but it has expanded, poisoning riverways and impacting cacao farmlands -- a major source of export income. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ghana goes to polls to choose new president amid struggling economy

Illegal small-scale gold mining known "Galamsey" in Ghana has picked up this year following an almost 30% rise in global gold prices. Hundreds of people marched through Accra in a peaceful protest against unlicensed gold mining

Ghana 'Galamsey' Accused Of Poisoning People, Nature

Ghana, one of Africa’s most stable democracies, is headed for general elections in December but the main opposition party was out on the streets protesting what they claim to be voter roll irregularities. So what is this election, all about, who are the candidates and the issues? This report explains. Watch in for more details!

Ghana Votes: What's At Stake In The Dec. 7 Polls

In the battle for presidency of Ghana the ruling NPP is seeking third consecutive term with Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia as its candidate and the opposition party NDC is planning a comeback after 8 years with former President John Mahama. Watch in for more details!

Ghana Presidential Elections: Ruling NPP releases election manifesto, voting to be held on Dec 6

Ghana's ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) launched its manifesto Sunday in a vibrant event in Takoradi, as the party gears up for a fierce battle in December's politically charged elections. Watch in for more details!

Ghana: VP Mahamudu Bawumia and John Mahama contest for Presidency

With secessionist tendencies in the alliance of Sahel states, double-digit inflation in Ghana and Nigeria, and public debt reaching record levels, the currency of the economic community of West African states doesn’t look likely to enter circulation in 2027 as planned...And now the bloc is seeking funds to establish a 5,000-strong security force to combat terrorism.

Ecowas facing a deep financial crunch

A toddler aged one year 152 days, named Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah, from Ghana has been named the world’s youngest male artist, by the Guinness World Records (GWR), as he has not only created over a dozen paintings but also sold nine of them.&nbsp;

<h2>About the record</h2>

Earlier this week, the toddler who is a little over one year old etched his name in the prestigious GWR after a five-month wait as the award-giving body ratified their attempt.&nbsp;

To qualify, Ace-Liam needed to be part of a professional exhibition which was open to the general public and sell his work.&nbsp;

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The work, according to the GWR also had to be of a professional standard and they also had to provide evidence that the paintings presented were done by Ace-Liam himself.&nbsp;

<h2>About Ace-Liam’s journey and process</h2>

His mother Chantelle, who is also an artist, told the GWR that she discovered her son’s passion for painting when he was just six months old.

“While learning to crawl, I spread out a piece of unstretched canvas on the floor and dropped some paint on it as a way to keep him busy while I worked on a commission painting,” she explained.&nbsp;

Subsequently, Ace-Liam ended up “spreading the paint all over the canvas” and created his first masterpiece titled ‘The crawl’ said his mother. She added, “It was clear that he found a lot of joy in it.”

Since then the toddler had&nbsp;garnered a lot of attention including that of the First Lady of the Republic of Ghana. “He has created a buzz and heightened the conversation about art appreciation,” said Chantelle.&nbsp;

Ace-Liam participated in his first group exhibition, The Soundout Premium Exhibition at the Museum of Science and Technology in Ghana with more than 20 of his paintings.&nbsp;

A total of 10 of his artworks were displayed and up for sale out of which nine were sold during the exhibition.

She also spoke about his process and how the one-year-old loves the feel of the paint on his hands and expressing himself through painting.&nbsp;

“It’s a fun and creative outlet for him, and he enjoys the freedom to explore and create without limitations,” Chantelle told the GWR.&nbsp;

Even after he started talking, his mother said he would ask if he could paint. She also explained that her son’s work is more about expression and exploration rather than conveying specific messages.

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Chantelle described Ace-Liam’s painting sessions as spontaneous and guided by his mood which can last anywhere from half an hour to a couple of days. “Once he’s done, he says ‘mama finish’.”

<h2>What’s next?</h2>

After he won the record, his family, according to the GWR, is now looking for opportunities to place him in an environment where his artistic talent could be nurtured through quality education.

“We are hoping to seek international scholarship opportunities as well as international opportunities for him to sell his artworks,” said Chantelle.&nbsp;

She also advised parents to encourage and support their child’s interests. “Every child is unique, and nurturing their passions can lead to amazing discoveries and achievements.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A toddler aged one year 152 days, named Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah, from Ghana has been named the world’s youngest male artist, by the Guinness World Records (GWR), as he has not only created over a dozen paintings but also sold nine of them.

A toddler aged one year 152 days, named Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah, from Ghana has been named the world’s youngest male artist, by the Guinness World Records (GWR), as he has not only created over a dozen paintings but also sold nine of them. About the record Earlier this week, the toddler who is a little over one year old etched his name in the prestigious GWR after a five-month wait as the award-giving body ratified their attempt. To qualify, Ace-Liam needed to be part of a professional exhibition which was open to the general public and sell his work. Also Read | Largest-ever planet-forming disk found. Here's what it tells us about Earth The work, according to the GWR also had to be of a professional standard and they also had to provide evidence that the paintings presented were done by Ace-Liam himself. About Ace-Liam’s journey and process His mother Chantelle, who is also an artist, told the GWR that she discovered her son’s passion for painting when he was just six months old. “While learning to crawl, I spread out a piece of unstretched canvas on the floor and dropped some paint on it as a way to keep him busy while I worked on a commission painting,” she explained. Subsequently, Ace-Liam ended up “spreading the paint all over the canvas” and created his first masterpiece titled ‘The crawl’ said his mother. She added, “It was clear that he found a lot of joy in it.” Since then the toddler had garnered a lot of attention including that of the First Lady of the Republic of Ghana. “He has created a buzz and heightened the conversation about art appreciation,” said Chantelle. Ace-Liam participated in his first group exhibition, The Soundout Premium Exhibition at the Museum of Science and Technology in Ghana with more than 20 of his paintings. A total of 10 of his artworks were displayed and up for sale out of which nine were sold during the exhibition. She also spoke about his process and how the one-year-old loves the feel of the paint on his hands and expressing himself through painting. “It’s a fun and creative outlet for him, and he enjoys the freedom to explore and create without limitations,” Chantelle told the GWR. Even after he started talking, his mother said he would ask if he could paint. She also explained that her son’s work is more about expression and exploration rather than conveying specific messages. Also Read | Tesla car Roadster is in space. But do you know WHERE it is right now? Chantelle described Ace-Liam’s painting sessions as spontaneous and guided by his mood which can last anywhere from half an hour to a couple of days. “Once he’s done, he says ‘mama finish’.” What’s next? After he won the record, his family, according to the GWR, is now looking for opportunities to place him in an environment where his artistic talent could be nurtured through quality education. “We are hoping to seek international scholarship opportunities as well as international opportunities for him to sell his artworks,” said Chantelle. She also advised parents to encourage and support their child’s interests. “Every child is unique, and nurturing their passions can lead to amazing discoveries and achievements.” (With inputs from agencies)

At one year and 152 days, this toddler from Ghana becomes world’s youngest artist

Ghana's Supreme Court said that lawyers battling over the legality of one of Africa's most restrictive anti-LGBTQ bill must amend their motions due to insulting language in their submissions and then postponed the case. Parliament unanimously passed the bill that would intensify a crackdown on LGBTQ rights in the West African nation in February, but President Nana Akufo-Addo has delayed signing it with his office citing pending challenges at the Supreme Court.

Ghana: Supreme Court postpones anti-LGBTQ case

Ghana’s Supreme Court said that lawyers battling over the legality of one of Africa’s most restrictive anti-LGBTQ bill must amend their motions due to insulting language in their submissions and then postponed the case. Watch in for more details!

Ghana's top court postpones hearing on anti-LGBTQ bill

India and Ghana have agreed to operationalize the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) with Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems within six months to enable fast financial transactions for users in both countries, according to the Commerce Ministry on Monday.

India, Ghana agree to operationalise UPI link within 6 months

Gold neck discs, a sword, a royal chair, and hundreds of other items plundered during British colonial control were displayed in Ghana for the first time this week, marking their historic homecoming.

Ghana unveils looted treasures at Kumasi museum for first time since their return

A 29-year-old environmental activist and forestry student from Ghana is making headlines after he set a new world record for hugging more than 1,100 trees in one hour.&nbsp;

The record-breaking feat took place in the Tuskegee National Forest, one of the four national forests in the state of Alabama, United States, the Guinness World Records (GWR) announced on Friday (Apr 26).&nbsp;

<h2>About the record</h2>

Abubakar Tahiru took his love for trees to the next level after he rushed through the forest hugging a total of 1,123 trees in one hour, which according to the record-keeping organisation is an average of 19 trees per minute.&nbsp;

For this record, a hug was defined as “both arms wrapped around a tree in a close embrace,” said the GWR.&nbsp;

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The criteria for the record also included rules like no tree should be hugged more than once and any damage to the trees can result in disqualification.&nbsp;

Tahiru, according to the GWR, hugged one three for around three seconds and easily surpassed the minimum requirement of 700 to become the first holder of this record.

<h2>‘Incredibly rewarding’</h2>

Speaking about the record-breaking feat, the 29-year-old said that the hardest part of the record attempt was to quickly move between the trees while ensuring that each hug met the criteria.&nbsp;

He also said that the “repetitive hugging motion” was “quite tiring.”

“Achieving this world record feels incredibly rewarding,” said Tahiru, as quoted by the GWR. He added, “It’s a meaningful gesture to highlight the crucial role of trees in our ecosystem and the urgency of environmental conservation.”

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Tahiru grew up in a farming community in Tepa, Ghana, where he also developed a keen interest in nature and its conservation.&nbsp;

Tahiru moved to Alabama, last year after finishing his undergraduate degree specialising in forestry at one of Ghana’s top universities and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in the subject at Auburn University.&nbsp;

After he set the new world record, the 29-year-old also spoke about how important it is for him to inspire the youth in Ghana “especially those from less privileged communities like the one I grew up in,” and show them “that it’s possible to rise above challenges and make a significant impact.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A 29-year-old environmental activist and forestry student from Ghana is making headlines after he set a new world record for hugging more than 1,100 trees in one hour.

A 29-year-old environmental activist and forestry student from Ghana is making headlines after he set a new world record for hugging more than 1,100 trees in one hour. The record-breaking feat took place in the Tuskegee National Forest, one of the four national forests in the state of Alabama, United States, the Guinness World Records (GWR) announced on Friday (Apr 26). About the record Abubakar Tahiru took his love for trees to the next level after he rushed through the forest hugging a total of 1,123 trees in one hour, which according to the record-keeping organisation is an average of 19 trees per minute. For this record, a hug was defined as “both arms wrapped around a tree in a close embrace,” said the GWR. Also Read | Hubble space telescope temporarily goes off duty as key device provides faulty reading The criteria for the record also included rules like no tree should be hugged more than once and any damage to the trees can result in disqualification. Tahiru, according to the GWR, hugged one three for around three seconds and easily surpassed the minimum requirement of 700 to become the first holder of this record. ‘Incredibly rewarding’ Speaking about the record-breaking feat, the 29-year-old said that the hardest part of the record attempt was to quickly move between the trees while ensuring that each hug met the criteria. He also said that the “repetitive hugging motion” was “quite tiring.” “Achieving this world record feels incredibly rewarding,” said Tahiru, as quoted by the GWR. He added, “It’s a meaningful gesture to highlight the crucial role of trees in our ecosystem and the urgency of environmental conservation.” Also Read | Cocaine and morphine trump food and water in brain’s reward hierarchy: Study Tahiru grew up in a farming community in Tepa, Ghana, where he also developed a keen interest in nature and its conservation. Tahiru moved to Alabama, last year after finishing his undergraduate degree specialising in forestry at one of Ghana’s top universities and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in the subject at Auburn University. After he set the new world record, the 29-year-old also spoke about how important it is for him to inspire the youth in Ghana “especially those from less privileged communities like the one I grew up in,” and show them “that it’s possible to rise above challenges and make a significant impact.” (With inputs from agencies)

Environmental activist from Ghana sets world record after hugging over 1,100 trees in an hour

Homophobia is not uncommon in ghana, where gay sex is already against the law and carries a three-year prison sentence, but now the LGBTQ+ community is feeling terrorised.

Ghana LGBTQ: We live in fear of 'snitches'

Members of Ghana's LGBTQ community and activists are waiting to see whether the West African country's president will sign into law a bill that would further restrict their rights and likely worsen the persecution many face.

LGBTQ+ Ghanaians await court ruling on restrictive new law

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