The body of Ghana national player and former Newcastle midfielder Christian Atsu has been discovered in Turkey beneath the wreckage of the residence where he lived, according to local media.

Footballer Christian Atsu found dead under building where he lived in Turkey

The United Kingdom’s Department for Education, has effected some changes in the priority subjects for nationals pursuing relocation to the country via its Teaching Regulation Agency from next month. WION’s Loiusa Olaniyi explains.

Nigeria, Ghana and others affected as UK review teachers’ immigration policy

Ghana receives around 15 million items of used clothing each week from western countries, offloaded in bulk. Much of it passes through Accra's Kanta-Manto, one of the largest garment markets on the continent, where bales of used clothes are sold based on the expected quality of the garments wrapped up inside. A group of vintage enthusiasts comb through rivers of imported clothes, searching for gems they can re-sell on Instagram pages with thousands of followers in Ghana and abroad.

World of Africa: Ghanaian group recycles secondhand garments

People in Ghana's Accra brought together a movement of young vintage enthusiasts creating their new fashion industry by secondhand clothes. Watch further to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Vintage enthusiasts transform new fashion from Western clothing waste

As Ghana fights its worst economic crisis in decades, the International Monetary Fund announced on Tuesday that the two parties had reached an agreement on a $3 billion loan line. The West African nation has experienced a dramatic decrease in its cedi currency since the beginning of the year, as well as inflation of more than 40% and rising debt.

According to the IMF statement, the government of Ghana has committed to "a wide-ranging economic reform programme" that would restore stability and debt sustainability.

The IMF's board will ratify the three-year financing arrangement.

The situation prompted President Nana Akufo-administration Addo's to change course early this year and request assistance from the IMF after experts warned the nation ran the risk of missing debt payments.

In order to relieve a payment pressure, the administration has already announced a domestic debt exchange.

Also watch |&nbsp;South African Parliament to decide whether to proceed with Ramaphosa's impeachment

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-african-parliament-to-decide-whether-to-proceed-with-ramaphosas-impeachment-542651/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ghana, a major producer of cocoa and gold, also has oil and gas deposits, but its debt service costs have skyrocketed, and like the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, it has been severely impacted by the effects of the Covid epidemic and the Ukraine conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

As Ghana fights its worst economic crisis in decades, the International Monetary Fund announced on Tuesday that the two parties had reached an agreement on a $3 billion loan line.

As Ghana fights its worst economic crisis in decades, the International Monetary Fund announced on Tuesday that the two parties had reached an agreement on a $3 billion loan line. The West African nation has experienced a dramatic decrease in its cedi currency since the beginning of the year, as well as inflation of more than 40% and rising debt. According to the IMF statement, the government of Ghana has committed to "a wide-ranging economic reform programme" that would restore stability and debt sustainability. The IMF's board will ratify the three-year financing arrangement. The situation prompted President Nana Akufo-administration Addo's to change course early this year and request assistance from the IMF after experts warned the nation ran the risk of missing debt payments. In order to relieve a payment pressure, the administration has already announced a domestic debt exchange. Also watch | South African Parliament to decide whether to proceed with Ramaphosa's impeachment Ghana, a major producer of cocoa and gold, also has oil and gas deposits, but its debt service costs have skyrocketed, and like the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, it has been severely impacted by the effects of the Covid epidemic and the Ukraine conflict. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ghana agrees on $3 bn deal with IMF as country fights its worst economic crisis in decades

Uruguay started with a poor show at the World Cup debut in Qatar 2022. While they were unable to score against South Korea and had to settle for a draw, they lost by 0-2 to Portugal. Ghana defeated South Korea 3-2. South Korean fans will be watching this match closely because it will determine their qualification, assuming they easily defeat Portugal.

<h2>Ghana form</h2>

Ghana has scored five goals in two matches, trying to demonstrate the type of attacking football they are playing at the FIFA World Cup 2022. They have, however, conceded five times, exposing flaws in their defence. Ghana is unlikely to be concerned with defensive strategies and will instead concentrate on what they do best: attack. A win here guarantees them a spot in the next round. They may qualify even if they draw or lose, but the Black Stars will almost certainly go for the kill in order to avenge 2002.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
👊🏾 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛𝗗𝗔𝗬 - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> 
 
🇬🇭 𝗚𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗔 🆚 𝗨𝗥𝗨𝗚𝗨𝗔𝗬 🇺🇾 
⏱️ 15:00 GMT 
🏟️ Al Janoub Stadium 
 
🤜🏾 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗘 𝗢𝗡 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackStars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackStars</a> 🤛🏾<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamGhana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamGhana</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a>| <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/jzzDZ1ipmm">pic.twitter.com/jzzDZ1ipmm</a>
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) <a href="https://twitter.com/GhanaBlackstars/status/1598592145723895808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Uruguay form</h2>

Uruguay would be delighted to move ahead again this time, denying Ghana the opportunity to become the first and only African country to reach the World Cup semifinals 12 years ago. If South Korea loses to Portugal, Uruguay would advance with three points. If both teams win, the second place in the group will be determined by goal differential. Japan (-1) is currently in a better position than Uruguay (-2). In addition, for the first time since 1974, Uruguay faces losing two group-stage games in a World Cup.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇺🇾 ¡𝙃𝙊𝙔 𝙅𝙐𝙀𝙂𝘼 𝙐𝙍𝙐𝙂𝙐𝘼𝙔!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaCeleste?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaCeleste</a> va por todo en la <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FIFAWorldCup</a>. 
 
🆚 Ghana 
🕜 18h (QAT) 12h (UY)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElEquipoQueNosUne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElEquipoQueNosUne</a> <a href="https://t.co/HUVxyqNRUz">pic.twitter.com/HUVxyqNRUz</a>
— Selección Uruguaya (@Uruguay) <a href="https://twitter.com/Uruguay/status/1598577105423540224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Ghana vs Uruguay head-to-head preview</h2>

Uruguay defeated Ghana 4-2 on penalties in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. That was the only match these two had ever played against each other.&nbsp;

<h2>Ghana vs Uruguay lineup</h2>

Ghana:&nbsp;Ati-Zigi, Lamptey, Amartey, Salisu, Mensah, Partey, Samed, Kudus, A Ayew, J Ayew, Williams

Uruguay:&nbsp;Rochet, Gimenez, Godin, Coates, Varela, Valverde, Bentancur, Vecino, Olivera, Nunez, Gomez

<h2>Ghana vs Uruguay kick-off time</h2>

The Ghana vs Uruguay match will be played on 2 December at 08:30 pm IST in the Al-Janoub Stadium, Al-Wakrah.

Uruguay started with a poor show at the World Cup debut in Qatar 2022. While they were unable to score against South Korea and had to settle for a draw, they lost by 0-2 to Portugal.

Uruguay started with a poor show at the World Cup debut in Qatar 2022. While they were unable to score against South Korea and had to settle for a draw, they lost by 0-2 to Portugal. Ghana defeated South Korea 3-2. South Korean fans will be watching this match closely because it will determine their qualification, assuming they easily defeat Portugal. Ghana form Ghana has scored five goals in two matches, trying to demonstrate the type of attacking football they are playing at the FIFA World Cup 2022. They have, however, conceded five times, exposing flaws in their defence. Ghana is unlikely to be concerned with defensive strategies and will instead concentrate on what they do best: attack. A win here guarantees them a spot in the next round. They may qualify even if they draw or lose, but the Black Stars will almost certainly go for the kill in order to avenge 2002. 👊🏾 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛𝗗𝗔𝗬 - #FIFAWorldCup 🇬🇭 𝗚𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗔 🆚 𝗨𝗥𝗨𝗚𝗨𝗔𝗬 🇺🇾 ⏱️ 15:00 GMT 🏟️ Al Janoub Stadium 🤜🏾 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗘 𝗢𝗡 #BlackStars 🤛🏾#TeamGhana | #FIFAWorldCup| #Qatar2022 pic.twitter.com/jzzDZ1ipmm — 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) December 2, 2022 × Uruguay form Uruguay would be delighted to move ahead again this time, denying Ghana the opportunity to become the first and only African country to reach the World Cup semifinals 12 years ago. If South Korea loses to Portugal, Uruguay would advance with three points. If both teams win, the second place in the group will be determined by goal differential. Japan (-1) is currently in a better position than Uruguay (-2). In addition, for the first time since 1974, Uruguay faces losing two group-stage games in a World Cup. 🇺🇾 ¡𝙃𝙊𝙔 𝙅𝙐𝙀𝙂𝘼 𝙐𝙍𝙐𝙂𝙐𝘼𝙔!#LaCeleste va por todo en la @FIFAWorldCup. 🆚 Ghana 🕜 18h (QAT) 12h (UY)#ElEquipoQueNosUne pic.twitter.com/HUVxyqNRUz — Selección Uruguaya (@Uruguay) December 2, 2022 × Ghana vs Uruguay head-to-head preview Uruguay defeated Ghana 4-2 on penalties in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. That was the only match these two had ever played against each other. Ghana vs Uruguay lineup Ghana: Ati-Zigi, Lamptey, Amartey, Salisu, Mensah, Partey, Samed, Kudus, A Ayew, J Ayew, Williams Uruguay: Rochet, Gimenez, Godin, Coates, Varela, Valverde, Bentancur, Vecino, Olivera, Nunez, Gomez Ghana vs Uruguay kick-off time The Ghana vs Uruguay match will be played on 2 December at 08:30 pm IST in the Al-Janoub Stadium, Al-Wakrah.

Ghana vs Uruguay at FIFA World Cup 2022: Match prediction, H2H preview, and lineups

The South Koreans are led by captain Son Heung-min, who plays for Tottenham of the Premier League. In 19 matches for Tottenham this season, the midfielder has five goals. Son registered 24 goals in 45 matches for his club in 2021-22. Since 2015, he has made 245 appearances for Tottenham, scoring 96 goals. The 30-year-old has scored 35 goals for South Korea in international play. In 42 appearances for the national team, Midfielder Kwon Chang-hoon, has registered 12 goals. Since 2021, he has played in the K League 1, and joined the Gimcheon Sangmu this season, making 36 appearances. He scored four goals in 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification matches, including the lone goal in a 1-0 victory over Lebanon.

Midfielder and team captain Andre Ayew is a strong player. In 111 appearances for the national team, Ayew has registered 24 goals. He plays winger for the Al Sadd club of the Qatar Stars League, and has been for the past two years. In six appearances this season for Al Sadd, he has two goals. He had 18 in 29 matches a year ago. Another scoring option is forward Jordan Ayew, who has 19 goals in 85 appearances for the national team. He also plays for Crystal Palace in the Premier League. Since playing full-time with the club in 2019-20, he has registered 15 goals in 149 appearances.&nbsp;

<h2>South Korea vs. Ghana Head to Head at FIFA World Cup 2022</h2>

The Teams South Korea and Ghana played 4 Games up to today. Among them, South Korea won 1 games, 1 at Home Stadium and 0 at Away Stadium away. Meanwhile, Ghana won 0 and drew 3 (3 at Home Stadium, 0 at Away Stadium). In the International Friendly, the two teams played a total of 1 games before, of which South Korea won 0, Ghana won 0 and the two teams drew 1. In the International Club Friendly, the two teams played a total of 3 games before, of which South Korea won 1, Ghana won 0 and the two teams drew 2.

<h2>South Korea vs. Ghana kickoff date, time and place&nbsp;</h2>

South Korea vs. Ghana World Cup clash will off kickoff at 6:30 PM IST at Education City Stadium in Ar Rayyan, Qatar

South Korea possible starting lineup: 
Seung-gyu; Min-jae, Moon-hwan, Young-gwon, Jin-su; In-beom, Jung ; Na, Lee, Son; Ui-jo

Ghana possible starting lineup: 
Ati Zigi; Djiku, Lamptey, Amartey, Baba; Partey, Abdul Samed; Kudus, Sulemana, A. Ayew; Williams

South Korea vs. Ghana: 2-2&nbsp;

The South Koreans are led by captain Son Heung-min, who plays for Tottenham of the Premier League. In 19 matches for Tottenham this season, the midfielder has five goals.

The South Koreans are led by captain Son Heung-min, who plays for Tottenham of the Premier League. In 19 matches for Tottenham this season, the midfielder has five goals. Son registered 24 goals in 45 matches for his club in 2021-22. Since 2015, he has made 245 appearances for Tottenham, scoring 96 goals. The 30-year-old has scored 35 goals for South Korea in international play. In 42 appearances for the national team, Midfielder Kwon Chang-hoon, has registered 12 goals. Since 2021, he has played in the K League 1, and joined the Gimcheon Sangmu this season, making 36 appearances. He scored four goals in 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification matches, including the lone goal in a 1-0 victory over Lebanon. Midfielder and team captain Andre Ayew is a strong player. In 111 appearances for the national team, Ayew has registered 24 goals. He plays winger for the Al Sadd club of the Qatar Stars League, and has been for the past two years. In six appearances this season for Al Sadd, he has two goals. He had 18 in 29 matches a year ago. Another scoring option is forward Jordan Ayew, who has 19 goals in 85 appearances for the national team. He also plays for Crystal Palace in the Premier League. Since playing full-time with the club in 2019-20, he has registered 15 goals in 149 appearances. South Korea vs. Ghana Head to Head at FIFA World Cup 2022 The Teams South Korea and Ghana played 4 Games up to today. Among them, South Korea won 1 games, 1 at Home Stadium and 0 at Away Stadium away. Meanwhile, Ghana won 0 and drew 3 (3 at Home Stadium, 0 at Away Stadium). In the International Friendly, the two teams played a total of 1 games before, of which South Korea won 0, Ghana won 0 and the two teams drew 1. In the International Club Friendly, the two teams played a total of 3 games before, of which South Korea won 1, Ghana won 0 and the two teams drew 2. South Korea vs. Ghana kickoff date, time and place South Korea vs. Ghana World Cup clash will off kickoff at 6:30 PM IST at Education City Stadium in Ar Rayyan, Qatar South Korea possible starting lineup: Seung-gyu; Min-jae, Moon-hwan, Young-gwon, Jin-su; In-beom, Jung ; Na, Lee, Son; Ui-jo Ghana possible starting lineup: Ati Zigi; Djiku, Lamptey, Amartey, Baba; Partey, Abdul Samed; Kudus, Sulemana, A. Ayew; Williams South Korea vs. Ghana: 2-2

FIFA World Cup 2022: South Korea vs. Ghana match time, predictions, preview, Head to Head and lineup

In a unique move Ghana is working on a new policy to buy oil products with gold rather than US dollar reserves. The move is meant to tackle dwindling foreign currency reserves in the country, it's coupled with demand for dollars by all importers.

World Business Watch: Ghana plans to buy oil with gold to tackle dwindling Forex reserves

Portugal v Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022 match preview: Portugal will face off against Ghana, an African superpower, on 24 November, in an effort to get their FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign off to a strong start. Cristiano Ronaldo and his team will be the centre of attention as they attempt to establish their dominance over the competition. Additionally, this will be Ronaldo's first game since his recent interview, which infuriated Manchester United's management. Here is match preview and predictions, squad and everything you need to know about the key matchup, with Ghana aiming for an upset.

<h2>Portugal Form at FIFA WC 2022&nbsp;</h2>

Ronaldo, the five-time winner of the Ballon d'Or after repeated World Cup setbacks will be anxious to help Portugal finally win the big one. Despite being a well-known footballing nation, Portugal has only been to the World Cup semifinals twice, in 1966 and 2006, and they haven't advanced past the round of 16 in four of their last five competitions. A Selecao lost to fellow Group H opponents Uruguay in the round of 16 at the World Cup finals in Russia in 2018, and they have only managed to win three of their past 11 games there. However, they did a great job of preparing for the competition by crushing Nigeria 4-0 earlier. Santos's team has struggled to win any of their last three opening games on the biggest international stage, so fast starts have not been a theme for Portugal at the World Cup. Ghana will need to put on their best shooting boots if they hope to get past a Portuguese defence that has only allowed two goals in their last seven games.

<h2>Ghana Form in QATAR&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Ghana has their sights set in Group H. Uruguay has been waiting patiently to keep the Black Stars from making it to the semifinals but Ghana is getting ready for its fourth World Cup appearance since 2006. &nbsp;The African nation has only been eliminated once at the group stage. On December 2, the two sides will resume hostilities. Earlier this year, before Ghana football manager Otto Addo took over, the Black Stars also lost all three of their games at the Africa Cup of Nations. Ghana entered the World Cup having won seven of their last eight games across all competitions, keeping clean sheets in all of those victories, and only losing to Brazil during that run. They also impressively defeated Switzerland 2-0 in a friendly last week.

<h2>Portugal vs. Ghana Head-to-Head</h2>

At this level of football, Portugal and Ghana are not complete strangers. At the 2014 World Cup, Ronaldo helped the A Selecao defeat the Black Stars 2-1, and a similar performance in Qatar would help him in his quest to once again make headlines for the right reasons.

<h2>When is the match?&nbsp;</h2>

The Portugal vs Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022 Match 15 will be played on Thursday (November 24) at 9:30 PM IST at the Stadium 974 in Doha. Portugal vs Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022 Match 15 will be broadcasted on Fox Sports, Telemundo in Qatar, Viacom 18 (Sports 18) in India, on BBC and ITV in England, Fox and Telemundo in USA and SBS in Australia.

<h2>Predicted lineup&nbsp;</h2>

Portugal possible predicted lineup: Costa; Cancelo, Pepe, Dias, Guerreiro; Neves, Carvalho, Fernandes; B. Silva, Ronaldo, Leao

Ghana possible starting lineup: Ati Zigi; Lamptey, Amartey, Djiku, Baba; Partey, Abdul Samed; Sulemana, Kudus, J. Ayew; Williams

<h2>Portugal vs Ghana Squad list</h2>

<h2>Portugal</h2>

Goalkeepers:&nbsp;Diogo Costa (Porto), Jose Sa (Wolves), Rui Patricio (Roma)

Defenders:&nbsp;Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Joao Cancelo (Manchester City), Danilo Pereira (PSG), Pepe (Porto), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Antonio Silva (Benfica), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund)

Midfielders:&nbsp;Joao Palhinha (Fulham), Ruben Neves (Wolves), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Joao Mario (Benfica), Matheus Nunes (Wolves), Otavio Monteiro (Porto), Vitinha (PSG), William Carvalho (Real Betis)

Forwards:&nbsp;Andre Silva (RB Leipzig), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Goncalo Ramos (Benfica), Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Ricardo Horta (Braga)

<h2>Ghana</h2>

Goalkeepers:&nbsp;Manaf Nurudeen (Eupen), Danlad Ibrahim (Asante Kotoko) Lawrence Ati Zigi (St Gallen)

Defenders:&nbsp;Denis Odoi (Fulham), Tariq Lamptey (Brighton), Alidu Seidu (Clermont), Daniel Amartey (Leicester), Joseph Aidoo (Celta Vigo), Alexander Djiku (Strasbourg), Mohammed Salisu (Southampton) Abdul-Rahman Baba (Reading) Gideon Mensah (Auxerre)

Midfielders:&nbsp;Andre Ayew (Al-Sadd) Thomas Partey (Arsenal) Elisha Owusu (Gent), Salis Abdul Samed (Lens), Mohammed Kudus (Ajax), Daniel Kofi Kyereh (Freiburg)

Forwards:&nbsp;Daniel Barnieh Afriyie (Hearts of Oak), Kamal Sowah (Club Brugge), Issahaku Abdul Fatawu (Sporting Lisbon), Osman Bukari (Red Star Belgrade), Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Antoine Semenyo (Bristol City), Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace) Kamaldeen Sulemana (Rennes)

&nbsp;

Portugal v Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022 match preview: Portugal will face off against Ghana, an African superpower, on 24 November, in an effort to get their FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign off to a strong start.

Portugal v Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022 match preview: Portugal will face off against Ghana, an African superpower, on 24 November, in an effort to get their FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign off to a strong start. Cristiano Ronaldo and his team will be the centre of attention as they attempt to establish their dominance over the competition. Additionally, this will be Ronaldo's first game since his recent interview, which infuriated Manchester United's management. Here is match preview and predictions, squad and everything you need to know about the key matchup, with Ghana aiming for an upset. Portugal Form at FIFA WC 2022 Ronaldo, the five-time winner of the Ballon d'Or after repeated World Cup setbacks will be anxious to help Portugal finally win the big one. Despite being a well-known footballing nation, Portugal has only been to the World Cup semifinals twice, in 1966 and 2006, and they haven't advanced past the round of 16 in four of their last five competitions. A Selecao lost to fellow Group H opponents Uruguay in the round of 16 at the World Cup finals in Russia in 2018, and they have only managed to win three of their past 11 games there. However, they did a great job of preparing for the competition by crushing Nigeria 4-0 earlier. Santos's team has struggled to win any of their last three opening games on the biggest international stage, so fast starts have not been a theme for Portugal at the World Cup. Ghana will need to put on their best shooting boots if they hope to get past a Portuguese defence that has only allowed two goals in their last seven games. Ghana Form in QATAR Ghana has their sights set in Group H. Uruguay has been waiting patiently to keep the Black Stars from making it to the semifinals but Ghana is getting ready for its fourth World Cup appearance since 2006. The African nation has only been eliminated once at the group stage. On December 2, the two sides will resume hostilities. Earlier this year, before Ghana football manager Otto Addo took over, the Black Stars also lost all three of their games at the Africa Cup of Nations. Ghana entered the World Cup having won seven of their last eight games across all competitions, keeping clean sheets in all of those victories, and only losing to Brazil during that run. They also impressively defeated Switzerland 2-0 in a friendly last week. Portugal vs. Ghana Head-to-Head At this level of football, Portugal and Ghana are not complete strangers. At the 2014 World Cup, Ronaldo helped the A Selecao defeat the Black Stars 2-1, and a similar performance in Qatar would help him in his quest to once again make headlines for the right reasons. When is the match? The Portugal vs Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022 Match 15 will be played on Thursday (November 24) at 9:30 PM IST at the Stadium 974 in Doha. Portugal vs Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022 Match 15 will be broadcasted on Fox Sports, Telemundo in Qatar, Viacom 18 (Sports 18) in India, on BBC and ITV in England, Fox and Telemundo in USA and SBS in Australia. Predicted lineup Portugal possible predicted lineup: Costa; Cancelo, Pepe, Dias, Guerreiro; Neves, Carvalho, Fernandes; B. Silva, Ronaldo, Leao Ghana possible starting lineup: Ati Zigi; Lamptey, Amartey, Djiku, Baba; Partey, Abdul Samed; Sulemana, Kudus, J. Ayew; Williams Portugal vs Ghana Squad list Portugal Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (Porto), Jose Sa (Wolves), Rui Patricio (Roma) Defenders: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Joao Cancelo (Manchester City), Danilo Pereira (PSG), Pepe (Porto), Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Antonio Silva (Benfica), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund) Midfielders: Joao Palhinha (Fulham), Ruben Neves (Wolves), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Joao Mario (Benfica), Matheus Nunes (Wolves), Otavio Monteiro (Porto), Vitinha (PSG), William Carvalho (Real Betis) Forwards: Andre Silva (RB Leipzig), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Goncalo Ramos (Benfica), Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Ricardo Horta (Braga) Ghana Goalkeepers: Manaf Nurudeen (Eupen), Danlad Ibrahim (Asante Kotoko) Lawrence Ati Zigi (St Gallen) Defenders: Denis Odoi (Fulham), Tariq Lamptey (Brighton), Alidu Seidu (Clermont), Daniel Amartey (Leicester), Joseph Aidoo (Celta Vigo), Alexander Djiku (Strasbourg), Mohammed Salisu (Southampton) Abdul-Rahman Baba (Reading) Gideon Mensah (Auxerre) Midfielders: Andre Ayew (Al-Sadd) Thomas Partey (Arsenal) Elisha Owusu (Gent), Salis Abdul Samed (Lens), Mohammed Kudus (Ajax), Daniel Kofi Kyereh (Freiburg) Forwards: Daniel Barnieh Afriyie (Hearts of Oak), Kamal Sowah (Club Brugge), Issahaku Abdul Fatawu (Sporting Lisbon), Osman Bukari (Red Star Belgrade), Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Antoine Semenyo (Bristol City), Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace) Kamaldeen Sulemana (Rennes)

Portugal v Ghana FIFA World Cup 2022 after Ronaldo’s BOMBSHELL interview, match predictions & preview inside

The action continues in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, as Cristiano Ronaldo will make his first-ever appearance in the ongoing edition on Thursday (November 24). Portugal will open their campaign in the showpiece event with a face-off versus Ghana, in Group H, and all eyes will be on captain Ronaldo. He is most likely playing his last World Cup and will hope to begin on a memorable note. So far, two big upsets have taken place with Saudi Arabia beating Argentina and Japan getting the better of Germany, hence, Portugal will not take their opposition lightly.

As Ronaldo will take the field, he will attain a new record up his sleeves.&nbsp;is all set to join his long-time rival Lionel Messi on an elite list of players to have appeared in as many as five different FIFA World Cups. The Portuguese star will become the eighth player in history to appear in five different editions of the World Cup. The 37-year-old made his first-ever appearance in 2006 and then appeared in every edition that followed suit. He will like to make the most of this edition, in Qatar, and help Portugal return with the mega title.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-beckham-up-for-talks-with-potential-bidders-as-man-united-owners-planning-to-sell-club-report-536975">David Beckham up for talks with potential bidders as Man United owners planning to sell club - Report</a>

Among all the players who have played in five different World Cups, only Antonio&nbsp;Carbajal, Matthäus, Rafael&nbsp;Márquez, and Messi have got a game, at least, in every edition. Ronaldo will join this elite list when he takes the field on Thursday evening in his side's clash versus Ghana.&nbsp;In the 2018 edition, in Russia, Ronaldo &amp; Co. bowed out with a defeat at the hands of Uruguay, who are placed in the same group as them this time around. Portugal will like to go the distance in Qatar 2022 and help Ronaldo end his illustrious career with the elite trophy.

The action continues in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, as Cristiano Ronaldo will make his first-ever appearance in the ongoing edition on Thursday (November 24).

The action continues in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, as Cristiano Ronaldo will make his first-ever appearance in the ongoing edition on Thursday (November 24). Portugal will open their campaign in the showpiece event with a face-off versus Ghana, in Group H, and all eyes will be on captain Ronaldo. He is most likely playing his last World Cup and will hope to begin on a memorable note. So far, two big upsets have taken place with Saudi Arabia beating Argentina and Japan getting the better of Germany, hence, Portugal will not take their opposition lightly. As Ronaldo will take the field, he will attain a new record up his sleeves. is all set to join his long-time rival Lionel Messi on an elite list of players to have appeared in as many as five different FIFA World Cups. The Portuguese star will become the eighth player in history to appear in five different editions of the World Cup. The 37-year-old made his first-ever appearance in 2006 and then appeared in every edition that followed suit. He will like to make the most of this edition, in Qatar, and help Portugal return with the mega title. Also read: David Beckham up for talks with potential bidders as Man United owners planning to sell club - Report Among all the players who have played in five different World Cups, only Antonio Carbajal, Matthäus, Rafael Márquez, and Messi have got a game, at least, in every edition. Ronaldo will join this elite list when he takes the field on Thursday evening in his side's clash versus Ghana. In the 2018 edition, in Russia, Ronaldo & Co. bowed out with a defeat at the hands of Uruguay, who are placed in the same group as them this time around. Portugal will like to go the distance in Qatar 2022 and help Ronaldo end his illustrious career with the elite trophy.

FIFA World Cup: Ronaldo to join Messi in illustrious list in Portugal's opening tie vs Ghana

On Monday, the Group of Seven leading economies launched an initiative called the “Global Shield” at the United Nations’ COP27 climate summit which will provide immediate funding to the countries when they are hit by the devastating impact of climate change.&nbsp;

Coordinated by the G7 president nation Germany, it will provide rapid access to funds for insurance and disaster protection after flooding, drought and hurricanes. The programme was developed in collaboration with ‘V20’ which is a group of 58 climate-vulnerable countries chaired by Ghana.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop27-summit-germany-warns-its-delegates-against-egyptian-security-agents-amid-spying-allegations-534087">Germany warns its delegates against Egyptian agents spying on them at COP27: Reports</a>

A statement was issued by Berlin, in which it named seven countries – Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Fiji, Ghana, Pakistan, the Philippines and Senegal, as the first recipients of packages, which would be developed in the upcoming months. So far, Germany has contributed $175.17 million in funding to Global Shield while other countries including Denmark and Ireland have contributed a little over $41 million.&nbsp;

The first draft released on Monday reportedly highlighted two major points – the divide between rich and poor nations, while the V20 countries proposed that this fund should not be “operationalised” by November 2024.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop27-summit-us-wants-china-back-on-negotiation-table-loss-and-damage-payments-to-dominate-531600">Cop27 Summit: US wants China back on negotiation table, ‘loss and damage payments’ to dominate</a>

While some countries have been wary that it risked efforts to secure a substantive deal on financial help for so-called “loss and damage”, Germany’s economic cooperation and development minister Svenja Schulze said that the aim with these funds is to add to but not replace the progress on loss and damage.&nbsp;

“It is not a kind of tactic to avoid formal negotiation on loss and damage funding arrangements here…Global Shield isn't the one and only solution for loss and damage. Certainly not. We need a broad range of solutions,” said Schulze. However, some vulnerable countries are not yet persuaded as there is reportedly not a lot of clarity on the “insurance elements” of the deal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-xi-meeting-no-fireworks-but-discussion-on-important-issues-takes-place-534085">Biden-Xi meeting: No fireworks, but discussion on important issues takes place</a>

“Using insurance is a method in which the victim pays, just in installments in the beginning,” said a special envoy on climate finance Avinash Persaud to the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, reported Reuters. He also said that the loss and damage finance should be grant-based.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

On Monday, the Group of Seven leading economies launched an initiative called the “Global Shield” at the United Nations’ COP27 climate summit which will provide immediate funding to the countries when they are hit by the devastating impact of climate change.

On Monday, the Group of Seven leading economies launched an initiative called the “Global Shield” at the United Nations’ COP27 climate summit which will provide immediate funding to the countries when they are hit by the devastating impact of climate change. Coordinated by the G7 president nation Germany, it will provide rapid access to funds for insurance and disaster protection after flooding, drought and hurricanes. The programme was developed in collaboration with ‘V20’ which is a group of 58 climate-vulnerable countries chaired by Ghana. ALSO READ: Germany warns its delegates against Egyptian agents spying on them at COP27: Reports A statement was issued by Berlin, in which it named seven countries – Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Fiji, Ghana, Pakistan, the Philippines and Senegal, as the first recipients of packages, which would be developed in the upcoming months. So far, Germany has contributed $175.17 million in funding to Global Shield while other countries including Denmark and Ireland have contributed a little over $41 million. The first draft released on Monday reportedly highlighted two major points – the divide between rich and poor nations, while the V20 countries proposed that this fund should not be “operationalised” by November 2024. ALSO WATCH: Cop27 Summit: US wants China back on negotiation table, ‘loss and damage payments’ to dominate While some countries have been wary that it risked efforts to secure a substantive deal on financial help for so-called “loss and damage”, Germany’s economic cooperation and development minister Svenja Schulze said that the aim with these funds is to add to but not replace the progress on loss and damage. “It is not a kind of tactic to avoid formal negotiation on loss and damage funding arrangements here…Global Shield isn't the one and only solution for loss and damage. Certainly not. We need a broad range of solutions,” said Schulze. However, some vulnerable countries are not yet persuaded as there is reportedly not a lot of clarity on the “insurance elements” of the deal. ALSO READ: Biden-Xi meeting: No fireworks, but discussion on important issues takes place “Using insurance is a method in which the victim pays, just in installments in the beginning,” said a special envoy on climate finance Avinash Persaud to the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, reported Reuters. He also said that the loss and damage finance should be grant-based. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan among the first seven countries to receive climate funding under ‘Global Shield’ initiative by G7

A generation before the gold coast became Ghana, a local photographer known as JK Bruce opened a small studio in the then-colonial capital Accra, where his family would become the De facto visual historians of a nation that had not yet been born. For 100 years, three generations of Bruce have painstakingly amassed the world's largest collection of 20th-century Ghanaian photographs under one roof. They believe their Deo Gratias photo studio is the oldest in West Africa.

World of Africa | Ghana's history in black & white

The Indian women’s hockey team defeated Ghana 5-0 to start its Commonwealth Games campaign on a winning note here on Friday.

The Savita Punia-led team was, however, far from impressive in its first Pool A game.

Gurjit Kaur (3rd, 39th minutes) scored a brace, while Neha Goyal (28th), Sangita Kumari (36th) and Salima Tete (56th) struck a field goal each for India.

Even though India dominated the match in all departments, it was a lacklustre performance from them in the first two quarters as Ghana’s defence produced a resolute show to frustrate their fancied opponents.

What was frustrating for India was the weak link-up between the midfield and the forwards.

Penalty corner conversion also continued to haunt India as they succeeded in scoring just once out of the 10 chances.

The Indians were expected to steamroll Ghana but goalkeeper Abigail Boye made some phenomenal saves to keep her side in the contest.&nbsp;She was ably supported by the defenders.

The Indians pressed on the accelerator from the onset and took the lead in the third minute when Gurjit converted her side’s first penalty corner with a fierce drag-flick to the right corner.

India soon earned a second penalty corner but Ghana defended bravely with Boye producing yet another fine save.

Just before the end of the first quarter, India were awarded a penalty stroke for a foul inside the 'D' but Ghana successfully challenged the decision.

The Indians came out attacking in the second quarter while Ghana were content on soaking up the pressure.

The Indians mounted attacks after attacks but all the attempts were thwarted by&nbsp;Ghana.

Ghana secured a penalty corner with three minutes from half-time but failed to get past India captain Savita.

Ghana secured another set piece before the breather but wasted the opportunity.

The Indians doubled their lead in the very next minute through Neha, whose push went inside the goal after getting a deflection from a Ghana defender.

Neha was once again in the thick of things but her fierce shot from point blank range was saved by Ghana goalkeeper Boye.

Three minutes after the change of ends, India secured two quick penalty corners but wasted both.

Sangita Kumari extended India's lead, finding the target from a goalmouth melee in the 36th minute.

India earned another penalty corner soon after but failed to increase the scoreline.

The Indians, however, scored the fourth goal in the 39th minute when Gurjit scored from a penalty stroke pushing the scoreline to 4-0.

India wasted another penalty corner in the 42nd minute. Three more penalty corners were also wasted after that.

Salima scored four minutes from the hooter after her shot went into the goal following a deflection from the stick of Ghana captain Nafisatu Umaru.

India will next take on Wales in their second pool match on Saturday.

The Indian women’s hockey team defeated Ghana 5-0 to start its Commonwealth Games campaign on a winning note here on Friday. The Savita Punia-led team was, however, far from impressive in its first Pool A game.

The Indian women’s hockey team defeated Ghana 5-0 to start its Commonwealth Games campaign on a winning note here on Friday. The Savita Punia-led team was, however, far from impressive in its first Pool A game. Gurjit Kaur (3rd, 39th minutes) scored a brace, while Neha Goyal (28th), Sangita Kumari (36th) and Salima Tete (56th) struck a field goal each for India. Even though India dominated the match in all departments, it was a lacklustre performance from them in the first two quarters as Ghana’s defence produced a resolute show to frustrate their fancied opponents. What was frustrating for India was the weak link-up between the midfield and the forwards. Penalty corner conversion also continued to haunt India as they succeeded in scoring just once out of the 10 chances. The Indians were expected to steamroll Ghana but goalkeeper Abigail Boye made some phenomenal saves to keep her side in the contest. She was ably supported by the defenders. The Indians pressed on the accelerator from the onset and took the lead in the third minute when Gurjit converted her side’s first penalty corner with a fierce drag-flick to the right corner. India soon earned a second penalty corner but Ghana defended bravely with Boye producing yet another fine save. Just before the end of the first quarter, India were awarded a penalty stroke for a foul inside the 'D' but Ghana successfully challenged the decision. The Indians came out attacking in the second quarter while Ghana were content on soaking up the pressure. The Indians mounted attacks after attacks but all the attempts were thwarted by Ghana. Ghana secured a penalty corner with three minutes from half-time but failed to get past India captain Savita. Ghana secured another set piece before the breather but wasted the opportunity. The Indians doubled their lead in the very next minute through Neha, whose push went inside the goal after getting a deflection from a Ghana defender. Neha was once again in the thick of things but her fierce shot from point blank range was saved by Ghana goalkeeper Boye. Three minutes after the change of ends, India secured two quick penalty corners but wasted both. Sangita Kumari extended India's lead, finding the target from a goalmouth melee in the 36th minute. India earned another penalty corner soon after but failed to increase the scoreline. The Indians, however, scored the fourth goal in the 39th minute when Gurjit scored from a penalty stroke pushing the scoreline to 4-0. India wasted another penalty corner in the 42nd minute. Three more penalty corners were also wasted after that. Salima scored four minutes from the hooter after her shot went into the goal following a deflection from the stick of Ghana captain Nafisatu Umaru. India will next take on Wales in their second pool match on Saturday.

Commonwealth Games: India beat Ghana 5-0 in women’s hockey opener

Education knows no boundaries, no limits. And spreading it across is a Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama. His community learning hub in a sparsely located landscape draws a stream of visitors for its unique way of imparting knowledge to them. To know further about it, take a look at our next story.

World Of Africa: Ghana's artistic educational hub

Two cases of the deadly Marburg virus have been identified in Ghana. As per health authorities, this is the first time that this Ebola-like disease has been found in a West African nation. Blood tests collected from two victims in the southern Ashanti area earlier this month revealed the Marburg virus. As per an AFP report, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) reported that the samples were submitted to the Pasteur Institute in Senegal, which confirmed the diagnosis. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda have seen previous outbreaks and isolated cases of Marburg.

According to the GHS statement, 98 individuals who have been identified as contact cases are presently quarantined. It also stated that no more Marburg cases have been found in Ghana.

Watch |&nbsp;More than 1.4 billion people at heightened risk of deadly disease: WHO report

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/more-than-14-billion-people-at-heightened-risk-of-deadly-disease-who-report-163735/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Let's take a look at the disease, its symptoms and treatments for Marburg:

What is the Marburg virus?

As per&nbsp;WHO,&nbsp;the Marburg virus is similar&nbsp;to the Ebola virus and causes Marburg virus disease (MVD). The disease&nbsp;kills around one out of every two afflicted people.

Following studies on imported African green monkeys, the virus&nbsp;was first identified in 1967 in Germany and the former Yugoslavia.

What are its symptoms?

The time from infection to the start of symptoms, or incubation period for Marburg, ranges from 2 to 21 days.

As per WHO, the Marburg virus causes sudden onset illness characterised by a high temperature, excruciating headaches, and severe fatigue. Another typical symptom is aches and pains in the muscles. On the third day, severe watery diarrhoea, cramps and discomfort in the abdomen, nausea, and vomiting can be there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/which-are-the-deadliest-viruses-of-21st-century-486963">Which are the deadliest viruses of 21st century?</a>

Many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms between 5 and 7 days, and fatal cases typically have some sort of bleeding, often from numerous sites. Bleeding from the nose, gums, and vagina frequently accompanies fresh blood in vomit&nbsp;and faeces.

Is it fatal?

The disease has a case fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent that, with proper patient care, can be significantly lower.

Depending on the virus strain and case treatment, fatality rates in confirmed cases have ranged from 24 to 88 per cent in past outbreaks, according to the WHO.

Death in fatal instances often occurs 8 to 9 days after the beginning of symptoms and is typically preceded by significant blood loss and shock.

Transmission

Prolonged exposure to mines or caves where Rousettus bat colonies are present was earlier the primary cause of human MVD infection.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-people-queue-up-in-long-lines-for-monkeypox-vaccine-498366" hreflang="en">New York: People queue up in long lines for monkeypox vaccine</a>

It can also be transmitted from person to person through direct contact with the blood, secretions or other body fluids of infected persons, as well as with surfaces and things contaminated with these fluids.

Healthcare professionals caring for infected people are also at risk. Direct contact with an infected person's corpse during funeral rites has also been linked to the spread of Marburg.

As long as the virus is present in a person's blood, they are contagious.

Treatment

There are currently no authorized vaccinations or antiviral medications for MVD. However, supportive care, such as rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids, and treatment of symptoms, increase the chances of&nbsp;survival.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Two cases of the deadly Marburg virus have been identified in Ghana. As per health authorities, this is the first time that this Ebola-like disease has been found in a West African nation.

Two cases of the deadly Marburg virus have been identified in Ghana. As per health authorities, this is the first time that this Ebola-like disease has been found in a West African nation. Blood tests collected from two victims in the southern Ashanti area earlier this month revealed the Marburg virus. As per an AFP report, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) reported that the samples were submitted to the Pasteur Institute in Senegal, which confirmed the diagnosis. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda have seen previous outbreaks and isolated cases of Marburg. According to the GHS statement, 98 individuals who have been identified as contact cases are presently quarantined. It also stated that no more Marburg cases have been found in Ghana. Watch | More than 1.4 billion people at heightened risk of deadly disease: WHO report Let's take a look at the disease, its symptoms and treatments for Marburg: What is the Marburg virus? As per WHO, the Marburg virus is similar to the Ebola virus and causes Marburg virus disease (MVD). The disease kills around one out of every two afflicted people. Following studies on imported African green monkeys, the virus was first identified in 1967 in Germany and the former Yugoslavia. What are its symptoms? The time from infection to the start of symptoms, or incubation period for Marburg, ranges from 2 to 21 days. As per WHO, the Marburg virus causes sudden onset illness characterised by a high temperature, excruciating headaches, and severe fatigue. Another typical symptom is aches and pains in the muscles. On the third day, severe watery diarrhoea, cramps and discomfort in the abdomen, nausea, and vomiting can be there. Also read | Which are the deadliest viruses of 21st century? Many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms between 5 and 7 days, and fatal cases typically have some sort of bleeding, often from numerous sites. Bleeding from the nose, gums, and vagina frequently accompanies fresh blood in vomit and faeces. Is it fatal? The disease has a case fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent that, with proper patient care, can be significantly lower. Depending on the virus strain and case treatment, fatality rates in confirmed cases have ranged from 24 to 88 per cent in past outbreaks, according to the WHO. Death in fatal instances often occurs 8 to 9 days after the beginning of symptoms and is typically preceded by significant blood loss and shock. Transmission Prolonged exposure to mines or caves where Rousettus bat colonies are present was earlier the primary cause of human MVD infection. Also read | New York: People queue up in long lines for monkeypox vaccine It can also be transmitted from person to person through direct contact with the blood, secretions or other body fluids of infected persons, as well as with surfaces and things contaminated with these fluids. Healthcare professionals caring for infected people are also at risk. Direct contact with an infected person's corpse during funeral rites has also been linked to the spread of Marburg. As long as the virus is present in a person's blood, they are contagious. Treatment There are currently no authorized vaccinations or antiviral medications for MVD. However, supportive care, such as rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids, and treatment of symptoms, increase the chances of survival. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ghana reports 2 deaths from Marburg, which has fatality rate of 88%. Here are its symptoms, treatment & more

Thomas Partey, Arsenal and Ghana midfielder, has recently&nbsp;announced that he would be converting to Islam, Hence,&nbsp;the footballer is&nbsp;also set to change his surname. The 28-year-old youngster revealed that he&nbsp;will now be using the surname Yakubu, for his wife Sara Bella. Nonetheless, Partey made it clear that he will continue to be known and addressed&nbsp;by his previous name in the football fraternity.

"I grew up with Muslims so at the end of the day it's the same thing. I'm already married and my Muslim name is Yakubu,” Parety said in a video posted by prominent Ghanaian journalist Nana Aba Anamoah. He further hilariously added, "I have a girl I love, I know my side chicks will leave me but it's no problem."

The&nbsp;midfielder was seen striking a pose&nbsp;with a Muslim cleric in March 2022. Thus, speculations were rife, since then, about his conversion before he himself came out in the open.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dutch-clubs-psv-feyenoord-and-pec-zwolleto-deploy-smart-technology-to-fight-fan-racism-486419">Dutch clubs PSV, Feyenoord and PEC Zwolleto deploy 'smart technology' to fight fan racism</a>

As mentioned, Partey will continue to use his first name Thomas on the back of his club and national team jerseys. The Ghana footballer has been a vital cog in Mikel Arteta's Arsenal club since his £45 million transfer&nbsp;from Atletico Madrid in 2020. Although he didn't live upto expectations in his maiden season with the Gunners, he made amends and came alive&nbsp;in his second season at the Emirates.

Thus, Partey has soon become a regular in the Gunners' line-up, riding on his passing efficiency and staggering completion rate (which stands at an impressive 86 percent).&nbsp;He, however,&nbsp;has been out of action in the Premier League after he&nbsp;suffered a hamstring injury against Crystal Palace on April 4, 2022.

Thomas Partey, Arsenal and Ghana midfielder, has recently announced that he would be converting to Islam, Hence, the footballer is also set to change his surname.

Thomas Partey, Arsenal and Ghana midfielder, has recently announced that he would be converting to Islam, Hence, the footballer is also set to change his surname. The 28-year-old youngster revealed that he will now be using the surname Yakubu, for his wife Sara Bella. Nonetheless, Partey made it clear that he will continue to be known and addressed by his previous name in the football fraternity. "I grew up with Muslims so at the end of the day it's the same thing. I'm already married and my Muslim name is Yakubu,” Parety said in a video posted by prominent Ghanaian journalist Nana Aba Anamoah. He further hilariously added, "I have a girl I love, I know my side chicks will leave me but it's no problem." The midfielder was seen striking a pose with a Muslim cleric in March 2022. Thus, speculations were rife, since then, about his conversion before he himself came out in the open. ALSO READ | Dutch clubs PSV, Feyenoord and PEC Zwolleto deploy 'smart technology' to fight fan racism As mentioned, Partey will continue to use his first name Thomas on the back of his club and national team jerseys. The Ghana footballer has been a vital cog in Mikel Arteta's Arsenal club since his £45 million transfer from Atletico Madrid in 2020. Although he didn't live upto expectations in his maiden season with the Gunners, he made amends and came alive in his second season at the Emirates. Thus, Partey has soon become a regular in the Gunners' line-up, riding on his passing efficiency and staggering completion rate (which stands at an impressive 86 percent). He, however, has been out of action in the Premier League after he suffered a hamstring injury against Crystal Palace on April 4, 2022.

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey converts to Islam, changes surname

Ghana is on the brink of an economic crisis. In 2021, the country recorded a total public debt of around 77% of its GDP, despite this Finance Minister said that Ghana was committed to managing its debt without taking assistance from the international Monetary Fund.

IMF not an option, Ghana FM confident to manage debt without help

India men's and women's hockey team will be facing Ghana in their opening match of the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham.

Both the men's and women's hockey competitions will kick start from July 29 with England and Ghana squaring off in the men's while New Zealand and Kenya facing each other in women's.

India will be facing England, Canada, Wales, in men's competition while in women's, India will be going up against Wales, England, and Canada following their clash with Ghana.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/for-next-generation-of-cricketers-india-pacer-s-sreesanth-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-460636">'For next generation of cricketers...'- India pacer S Sreesanth announces retirement from all forms of cricket</a>

Both semi-final clashes of men&nbsp;have been scheduled to take place on August 6 and in women's, the semi-final will be held on August 5.

The summit clash for both the competitions will be held on August 7.

India men's and women's hockey team will be facing Ghana in their opening match of the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham. Both the men's and women's hockey competitions will kick start from July 29 with England and Ghana squaring off in the men's while New Zealand and Kenya facing each other in women's.

India men's and women's hockey team will be facing Ghana in their opening match of the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham. Both the men's and women's hockey competitions will kick start from July 29 with England and Ghana squaring off in the men's while New Zealand and Kenya facing each other in women's. India will be facing England, Canada, Wales, in men's competition while in women's, India will be going up against Wales, England, and Canada following their clash with Ghana. ALSO READ: 'For next generation of cricketers...'- India pacer S Sreesanth announces retirement from all forms of cricket Both semi-final clashes of men have been scheduled to take place on August 6 and in women's, the semi-final will be held on August 5. The summit clash for both the competitions will be held on August 7.

Commonwealth Games 2022: India men's, women's hockey team to face Ghana in their openers in Birmingham

At least 17 people were killed and 59 injured Thursday in a devastating explosion in a western&nbsp;Ghana&nbsp;town after a truck carrying explosives intended for a mine collided with a motorcycle, the government said.

The blast left a huge crater and reduced dozens of buildings to dust-covered piles of wood and metal in Apiate, near the city of Bogoso some 300 kilometres (180 miles) west of the mineral-rich West African country's capital Accra.

Footage verified by AFP showed locals rushing towards a raging fire and rising plumes of black smoke to inspect the damage, while rescue workers waded through the rubble to find survivors caught in the devastation and retrieve lifeless bodies.&nbsp;

"A total of 17 people have unfortunately been confirmed dead, and 59 injured people have been rescued," Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah said in a statement released overnight.

The minister said initial signs point to "an accident involving a truck transporting explosive materials for a mining company, a motorcycle and a third vehicle" which took place near an electrical transformer.

Out of 59 people injured, 42 are receiving treatment in hospitals or health centres and "some are in critical condition", Nkrumah added.

Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo called it a "truly sad, unfortunate and tragic incident" and expressed "deep condolences to the families of the deceased".

'Ghost town'

Officials and eyewitnesses described a scene of desolation against the sea of buildings collapsed or impaired in the carnage.

"It's a black Thursday. So far 500 houses have been affected. Some have been razed down completely by the explosion while others have developed cracks," Sedzi Sadzi Amedonu, Deputy Coordinator of the National Disaster Management Organization, told AFP.

"It's almost like a ghost town now."

Abena Mintah, who witnessed the blast, told local media the driver of the truck dropped down from his hatch, shouting at those nearby to warn them away from the flaming vehicle.&nbsp;

"Within a few minutes we heard a loud bang. I felt dizzy and fell in the bush. I managed to get up and saw a few dismembered bodies on the street," Mintah said.

The government said those in critical condition would be moved to hospitals in Accra and police asked surrounding villages to open their schools and churches to accommodate any additional casualties.

A team of police and army explosion experts were deployed to "avoid a second explosion" and put in place security measures after the blast, the government said in a press release.

'Community gone'

Emergency services were to give a casualty update on Friday at 11:00 am (1100 GMT).

Dr Isaac Dasmani, chief executive of the Prestea Huni-Valley municipality where the explosion occurred, told local media "the whole community is gone" after the blast.

"All of the roofs have been ripped off, some of the buildings have collapsed. Some were in their rooms, and were trapped. Some of them, unfortunately, before we were able to rescue them, were already gone," he told&nbsp;Ghana's TV3 broadcaster.

Authorities have created an access route to the scene and were working to open roads on Friday to ease traffic around the blast site, he said.

Ghana&nbsp;has been rocked by several deadly explosions caused by fuel accidents in recent years.

In 2017, at least three people were killed and dozens injured after a tanker truck carrying natural gas caught fire in Accra, triggering explosions at two fuel stations and killing three people.

Ghana's capital was the scene of a similar fire and explosion in June 2015, when more than 150 people died as they sought shelter from seasonal rains and flooding at a petrol station. The blaze was believed to have spread by fuel on the floodwater.

Deadly accidents linked to the mining sector are also frequent in&nbsp;Ghana, Africa's second-largest gold producer after South Africa, but they are mostly caused by the collapse of mines, often illegal ones.

In June, at least nine people died in the collapse of an illegal mine in northern&nbsp;Ghana.

At least 17 people were killed and 59 injured Thursday in a devastating explosion in a western Ghana town after a truck carrying explosives intended for a mine collided with a motorcycle, the government said.

At least 17 people were killed and 59 injured Thursday in a devastating explosion in a western Ghana town after a truck carrying explosives intended for a mine collided with a motorcycle, the government said. The blast left a huge crater and reduced dozens of buildings to dust-covered piles of wood and metal in Apiate, near the city of Bogoso some 300 kilometres (180 miles) west of the mineral-rich West African country's capital Accra. Footage verified by AFP showed locals rushing towards a raging fire and rising plumes of black smoke to inspect the damage, while rescue workers waded through the rubble to find survivors caught in the devastation and retrieve lifeless bodies. "A total of 17 people have unfortunately been confirmed dead, and 59 injured people have been rescued," Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah said in a statement released overnight. The minister said initial signs point to "an accident involving a truck transporting explosive materials for a mining company, a motorcycle and a third vehicle" which took place near an electrical transformer. Out of 59 people injured, 42 are receiving treatment in hospitals or health centres and "some are in critical condition", Nkrumah added. Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo called it a "truly sad, unfortunate and tragic incident" and expressed "deep condolences to the families of the deceased". 'Ghost town' Officials and eyewitnesses described a scene of desolation against the sea of buildings collapsed or impaired in the carnage. "It's a black Thursday. So far 500 houses have been affected. Some have been razed down completely by the explosion while others have developed cracks," Sedzi Sadzi Amedonu, Deputy Coordinator of the National Disaster Management Organization, told AFP. "It's almost like a ghost town now." Abena Mintah, who witnessed the blast, told local media the driver of the truck dropped down from his hatch, shouting at those nearby to warn them away from the flaming vehicle. "Within a few minutes we heard a loud bang. I felt dizzy and fell in the bush. I managed to get up and saw a few dismembered bodies on the street," Mintah said. The government said those in critical condition would be moved to hospitals in Accra and police asked surrounding villages to open their schools and churches to accommodate any additional casualties. A team of police and army explosion experts were deployed to "avoid a second explosion" and put in place security measures after the blast, the government said in a press release. 'Community gone' Emergency services were to give a casualty update on Friday at 11:00 am (1100 GMT). Dr Isaac Dasmani, chief executive of the Prestea Huni-Valley municipality where the explosion occurred, told local media "the whole community is gone" after the blast. "All of the roofs have been ripped off, some of the buildings have collapsed. Some were in their rooms, and were trapped. Some of them, unfortunately, before we were able to rescue them, were already gone," he told Ghana's TV3 broadcaster. Authorities have created an access route to the scene and were working to open roads on Friday to ease traffic around the blast site, he said. Ghana has been rocked by several deadly explosions caused by fuel accidents in recent years. In 2017, at least three people were killed and dozens injured after a tanker truck carrying natural gas caught fire in Accra, triggering explosions at two fuel stations and killing three people. Ghana's capital was the scene of a similar fire and explosion in June 2015, when more than 150 people died as they sought shelter from seasonal rains and flooding at a petrol station. The blaze was believed to have spread by fuel on the floodwater. Deadly accidents linked to the mining sector are also frequent in Ghana, Africa's second-largest gold producer after South Africa, but they are mostly caused by the collapse of mines, often illegal ones. In June, at least nine people died in the collapse of an illegal mine in northern Ghana.

At least 17 killed, more than 50 injured by explosion in western Ghana

At least 17 people have been killed and 59 others have been injured in a devastating explosion in western Ghana. After a truck that reportedly was carrying explosives collided with a motorcycle the blast left a huge crater and also reduced dozens of buildings virtually to their cinders.

Ghana: Trucks carrying mining explosives blasted, killed 17 and injured 59

Several ministers in Ghana threw punches at each other during a parliamentary session over electronic tax payments.

The 'Electronic Communications Tax' also called e-levy, has divided the lower house of Ghana for weeks.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ghana-parliament-brawl-fight-breaks-out-on-the-parliament-floor-over-proposed-tax-on-e-transactions-439012/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei-Owusu suggested the tax be debated and voted upon under a hastened "urgency" procedure.

It has been fiercely challenged by the opposition and when the voting on Tuesday resulted in a tie, a brawl broke out.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lawmakers-throw-bottles-at-each-other-as-brawl-breaks-out-in-armenian-parliament-408352">Also read |&nbsp;Lawmakers throw bottles at each other, as brawl breaks out in Armenian parliament</a>

While some delivered blows in the parliament, others tried to restrain their colleagues.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ghana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ghana</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Parliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Parliament</a>'s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalRumble?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalRumble</a> over Electronic Tax Row🤼🤦🏻‍♂️😁😂 <a href="https://t.co/VV3YcVndQj">pic.twitter.com/VV3YcVndQj</a>
— Venkatesh Ragupathi (@venkatesh_Ragu) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkatesh_Ragu/status/1473613770823909376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
To your mind and in the silence of your heart, tell us - how would the e-levy budget fare if it were put to a referendum? This is probably the best way to know which side of <a href="https://twitter.com/GhanaParliament?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GhanaParliament</a> is truly representing the people.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SremPol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SremPol</a>
— Justice Srem-Sai (@JusticeSremSai) <a href="https://twitter.com/JusticeSremSai/status/1473215892989304836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Fighting inside the Ghanaian 🇬🇭 Parliament today and I didn’t see a single tweet from folks who like to rubbish Nigeria 🇳🇬 while praising Ghana 🇬🇭 every week. If that fight was from the Nigerian Parliament you’d have heard how that will never happen in Ghana 🇬🇭. Hypocrites.
— Dr. Dípò Awójídé (@OgbeniDipo) <a href="https://twitter.com/OgbeniDipo/status/1473384424943366148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The most chaotic place in Ghana now is unfortunately, our Parliament. 
 
I'm so ashamed!!
— Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaddickAdams/status/1473079654898622467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The truffff is only ☝🏾 
 
Ghana parliament | E-levy | Twene Jonas | Joe Wise | Haruna Iddrisu | Ghana politics | <a href="https://t.co/FLzsEOq3R4">pic.twitter.com/FLzsEOq3R4</a>
— Avit (@official_avit) <a href="https://twitter.com/official_avit/status/1473237393981464580?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ghana Boxing. 
NPP and NDC MPs in parliament throwing punches. Where was Kennedy Agyapong though?😂 <a href="https://t.co/g9w2k6Ooxd">pic.twitter.com/g9w2k6Ooxd</a>
— Phelyks Kwabena Agyemang (@phelyks_agyeman) <a href="https://twitter.com/phelyks_agyeman/status/1473409212223049731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to minority leader Haruna Iddrisu, "We need to demonstrate to the country that our democracy is growing, and will not suffer some of these unacceptable sins and spectacles we've witnessed on the floor."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fighting-erupts-in-taiwanese-parliament-after-opposition-occupies-chamber-309414">Also see |&nbsp;Fighting erupts in Taiwanese parliament after opposition occupies chamber</a>

Critics argue that the tax will disproportionately affect lower-income people but Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta believes the levy would widen the tax net.

Analysts say overall economic activity will be decreased if it is imposed on those who rely heavily rely on mobile money transfers.

A vote on whether to proceed with the urgency procedure was postponed to January 18.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Several ministers in Ghana threw punches at each other during a parliamentary session over electronic tax payments. The 'Electronic Communications Tax' also called e-levy, has divided the lower house of Ghana for weeks.

Several ministers in Ghana threw punches at each other during a parliamentary session over electronic tax payments. The 'Electronic Communications Tax' also called e-levy, has divided the lower house of Ghana for weeks. Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei-Owusu suggested the tax be debated and voted upon under a hastened "urgency" procedure. It has been fiercely challenged by the opposition and when the voting on Tuesday resulted in a tie, a brawl broke out. Also read | Lawmakers throw bottles at each other, as brawl breaks out in Armenian parliament While some delivered blows in the parliament, others tried to restrain their colleagues. #Ghana #Parliament's #RoyalRumble over Electronic Tax Row🤼🤦🏻‍♂️😁😂 pic.twitter.com/VV3YcVndQj — Venkatesh Ragupathi (@venkatesh_Ragu) December 22, 2021 × To your mind and in the silence of your heart, tell us - how would the e-levy budget fare if it were put to a referendum? This is probably the best way to know which side of @GhanaParliament is truly representing the people.#SremPol — Justice Srem-Sai (@JusticeSremSai) December 21, 2021 × Fighting inside the Ghanaian 🇬🇭 Parliament today and I didn’t see a single tweet from folks who like to rubbish Nigeria 🇳🇬 while praising Ghana 🇬🇭 every week. If that fight was from the Nigerian Parliament you’d have heard how that will never happen in Ghana 🇬🇭. Hypocrites. — Dr. Dípò Awójídé (@OgbeniDipo) December 21, 2021 × The most chaotic place in Ghana now is unfortunately, our Parliament. I'm so ashamed!! — Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) December 20, 2021 × The truffff is only ☝🏾 Ghana parliament | E-levy | Twene Jonas | Joe Wise | Haruna Iddrisu | Ghana politics | pic.twitter.com/FLzsEOq3R4 — Avit (@official_avit) December 21, 2021 × Ghana Boxing. NPP and NDC MPs in parliament throwing punches. Where was Kennedy Agyapong though?😂 pic.twitter.com/g9w2k6Ooxd — Phelyks Kwabena Agyemang (@phelyks_agyeman) December 21, 2021 × According to minority leader Haruna Iddrisu, "We need to demonstrate to the country that our democracy is growing, and will not suffer some of these unacceptable sins and spectacles we've witnessed on the floor." Also see | Fighting erupts in Taiwanese parliament after opposition occupies chamber Critics argue that the tax will disproportionately affect lower-income people but Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta believes the levy would widen the tax net. Analysts say overall economic activity will be decreased if it is imposed on those who rely heavily rely on mobile money transfers. A vote on whether to proceed with the urgency procedure was postponed to January 18. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Social media erupts after punches thrown during brawl in Ghana parliament

Amid a row over a proposed tax on electronic transactions, a rough fight breaks out between the lawmakers. The Finance Minister argues that the levy would widen the tax net.

Ghana Parliament Brawl: Fight breaks out on the Parliament floor over proposed tax on e-Transactions

It's not a new thing that nature has wonders and surprises waiting to be found. Something takes a dip in dark, we lose sight of it for years and years and it unexpectedly pops up making us drop our jaws.

A giant owl has been sighted for the first time in 150 years!.&nbsp;

Shelley's eagle owl, true to its name due to its similarities to an eagle, has been spotted by experts in jungles of Ghana in Africa. This is being hailed as fantastic and ecologists are over cloud nine.

A picture of the bird was taken by Dr Robert Williams, an ecologist from Somerset and Dr Joseph Tobias, of the Department of Life Sciences at Imperial College London.

Shelley's eagle owl was first described by Richard Bowdler Sharpe, curator of the bird collection at the Natural History Museum. The specimen was taken from a hunter in Ghana.

There hasn't been a single confirmed sighting of the owl after that.

Shelley's Eagle Owl is known for its distinct black eyes and eagle-like appearance. Even Dr Tobias, who spotted the owl with Dr Williams mistook it to be an eagle first, as reported by The Independent.

It's not a new thing that nature has wonders and surprises waiting to be found. Something takes a dip in dark, we lose sight of it for years and years and it unexpectedly pops up making us drop our jaws.

It's not a new thing that nature has wonders and surprises waiting to be found. Something takes a dip in dark, we lose sight of it for years and years and it unexpectedly pops up making us drop our jaws. A giant owl has been sighted for the first time in 150 years!. Shelley's eagle owl, true to its name due to its similarities to an eagle, has been spotted by experts in jungles of Ghana in Africa. This is being hailed as fantastic and ecologists are over cloud nine. A picture of the bird was taken by Dr Robert Williams, an ecologist from Somerset and Dr Joseph Tobias, of the Department of Life Sciences at Imperial College London. Shelley's eagle owl was first described by Richard Bowdler Sharpe, curator of the bird collection at the Natural History Museum. The specimen was taken from a hunter in Ghana. There hasn't been a single confirmed sighting of the owl after that. Shelley's Eagle Owl is known for its distinct black eyes and eagle-like appearance. Even Dr Tobias, who spotted the owl with Dr Williams mistook it to be an eagle first, as reported by The Independent.

Giant owl, unseen for 150 years, spotted in wild

Nana Akufo-Addo, Ghana President, has been criticised for promoting anti-LGBT law in the country that undermines the rights of the community.

Ghana is one of the countries where gay sex is illegal. However, now, a law proposal has been mentioned which not only discriminates against the LGBT community but also denounces anyone who tries to help the community.

The proposal includes criminalising LGBT advocacy, supports and justifies conversion therapy and imposes longer jail sentences. This proposal was introduced in the country’s parliament earlier this month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-tortures-lgbt-children-with-electric-shock-to-cure-them-un-report-363329" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-tortures-lgbt-children-with-electric-shock-to-cure-them-un-report-363329&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiI6r7-v6vyAhVM3jgGHa57BJsQFjAFegQIBRAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw1rQpYM8asJGdUuNz3cQFWb" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-tortures-lgbt-children-with-electric-shock-to-cure-them-un-report-363329" target="_blank">Iran tortures&nbsp;LGBT&nbsp;children with electric shock to 'cure' them: UN</a>

However, this proposal has caused waves of disappointment against taking away the rights of the LGBT community and their supporters. International organisations have joined forces to protest against the "promotion of proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values bill".

Once the proposal is passed by the parliament, the decision about adopting this text ultimately comes down to Nana Akufo-Addo. The leader who won his second term in the office in December, can either approve the proposal, upsetting the LGBT community and its supporters, or veto it to protect the rights of the community.

"Adopting the legislation in its current or any partial form would be tantamount to a violation of a number of human rights standards, including the absolute prohibition of torture,"&nbsp;a group of UN experts worded their statement. "It will not only criminalise LGBTI people, but anyone who supports their human rights shows sympathy to them or is even remotely associated with them."

Nana Akufo-Addo, Ghana President, has been criticised for promoting anti-LGBT law in the country that undermines the rights of the community. Ghana is one of the countries where gay sex is illegal.

Nana Akufo-Addo, Ghana President, has been criticised for promoting anti-LGBT law in the country that undermines the rights of the community. Ghana is one of the countries where gay sex is illegal. However, now, a law proposal has been mentioned which not only discriminates against the LGBT community but also denounces anyone who tries to help the community. The proposal includes criminalising LGBT advocacy, supports and justifies conversion therapy and imposes longer jail sentences. This proposal was introduced in the country’s parliament earlier this month. Also read | Iran tortures LGBT children with electric shock to 'cure' them: UN However, this proposal has caused waves of disappointment against taking away the rights of the LGBT community and their supporters. International organisations have joined forces to protest against the "promotion of proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values bill". Once the proposal is passed by the parliament, the decision about adopting this text ultimately comes down to Nana Akufo-Addo. The leader who won his second term in the office in December, can either approve the proposal, upsetting the LGBT community and its supporters, or veto it to protect the rights of the community. "Adopting the legislation in its current or any partial form would be tantamount to a violation of a number of human rights standards, including the absolute prohibition of torture," a group of UN experts worded their statement. "It will not only criminalise LGBTI people, but anyone who supports their human rights shows sympathy to them or is even remotely associated with them."

Ghana President set to make tough decision on anti-LGBT bill

Two protesters were shot dead and four were wounded in clashes with security forces in&nbsp;Ghana's southern Ashanti region, police and a health official said Wednesday.

The protesters were demonstrating against the death of a youth activist, Ibrahim "Kaaka" Mohammed, when they were confronted by police and soldiers on Tuesday in the town of Ejura.

"Two people died during the clashes," said police spokesman Godwin Ahianyo.

Police were investigating the incident and calm had been restored to the area, he said.&nbsp;

A health official confirmed that two people died and four were injured.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unstoppable-182-unmarked-graves-found-at-third-canadian-school-395019">Also Read |&nbsp;'Unstoppable': 182 unmarked graves found at third Canadian school</a>

"One died before arrival. We tried to resuscitate the other but he died later," said Manyee Mensah, medical superintendent at the Ejura Government Hospital.

"Currently, we have four injured persons... One is in a critical condition but the other three are stable," Mensah told AFP by phone.

Gunmen killed Mohammed, an outspoken critic of the government on social media, near his house in a suburb of Ejura on Sunday.

Police said they had arrested two suspects in connection with his death.&nbsp;

"We’re on top of issues and I want to assure the public everything is under control," Ahianyo said.

President Nana Akufo-Addo ordered a government report on the incident within 10 days.

The statement from his office said the president was "deeply saddened" by the deaths of Mohammed and two others, assumed to be the protesters.&nbsp;

Akufo-Addo won a second term last December, but with only a small majority in parliament, and has been under pressure from political opponents.

Faced with mounting public debt and severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic, the government introduced new taxes in a bid to boost the economy.

An increase in the price of fuel led to knock-on hikes to some essential goods and services.

Parts of&nbsp;Ghana&nbsp;have also suffered from power outages in recent months, and there has been in increase in daylight robberies in the capital Accra.&nbsp;

In response, a number of Ghanaians have taken to Twitter to demand change, using the hashtag #FixTheCountry.

Citing Covid-19 restrictions, police secured a court injunction&nbsp;and blocked a planned protest in May, but discontent has continued to simmer.&nbsp;

Two protesters were shot dead and four were wounded in clashes with security forces in Ghana's southern Ashanti region, police and a health official said Wednesday.

Two protesters were shot dead and four were wounded in clashes with security forces in Ghana's southern Ashanti region, police and a health official said Wednesday. The protesters were demonstrating against the death of a youth activist, Ibrahim "Kaaka" Mohammed, when they were confronted by police and soldiers on Tuesday in the town of Ejura. "Two people died during the clashes," said police spokesman Godwin Ahianyo. Police were investigating the incident and calm had been restored to the area, he said. A health official confirmed that two people died and four were injured. Also Read | 'Unstoppable': 182 unmarked graves found at third Canadian school "One died before arrival. We tried to resuscitate the other but he died later," said Manyee Mensah, medical superintendent at the Ejura Government Hospital. "Currently, we have four injured persons... One is in a critical condition but the other three are stable," Mensah told AFP by phone. Gunmen killed Mohammed, an outspoken critic of the government on social media, near his house in a suburb of Ejura on Sunday. Police said they had arrested two suspects in connection with his death. "We’re on top of issues and I want to assure the public everything is under control," Ahianyo said. President Nana Akufo-Addo ordered a government report on the incident within 10 days. The statement from his office said the president was "deeply saddened" by the deaths of Mohammed and two others, assumed to be the protesters. Akufo-Addo won a second term last December, but with only a small majority in parliament, and has been under pressure from political opponents. Faced with mounting public debt and severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic, the government introduced new taxes in a bid to boost the economy. An increase in the price of fuel led to knock-on hikes to some essential goods and services. Parts of Ghana have also suffered from power outages in recent months, and there has been in increase in daylight robberies in the capital Accra. In response, a number of Ghanaians have taken to Twitter to demand change, using the hashtag #FixTheCountry. Citing Covid-19 restrictions, police secured a court injunction and blocked a planned protest in May, but discontent has continued to simmer.

Two protesters shot dead in Ghana

The UN General Assembly elected Albania, Brazil, Gabon, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations Security Council on Friday for a two-year term starting on Jan. 1, 2022.

All five countries ran unopposed for a spot on the 15-member body, which is charged with maintaining international peace and security. They will replace Estonia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-first-indian-diplomat-nagaraj-naidu-to-be-unga-presidents-chef-de-cabinet-390683">In a first, Indian diplomat Nagaraj Naidu to be UNGA President's Chef de Cabinet</a>

To ensure geographical representation, seats are allocated to regional groups. But even if candidates are running unopposed in their group, they still need to win the support of more than two-thirds of the UN&nbsp;General Assembly.

Ghana received 185 votes, Gabon 183 votes, UAE 179 votes, Albania 175 votes and Brazil 181 votes.

The Security Council is the only UN body that can make legally binding decisions like imposing sanctions and authorizing use of force. It has five permanent veto-wielding members - the United States, Britain, France, China and Russia.

The UN General Assembly elected Albania, Brazil, Gabon, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations Security Council on Friday for a two-year term starting on Jan.

The UN General Assembly elected Albania, Brazil, Gabon, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations Security Council on Friday for a two-year term starting on Jan. 1, 2022. All five countries ran unopposed for a spot on the 15-member body, which is charged with maintaining international peace and security. They will replace Estonia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam. Also read | In a first, Indian diplomat Nagaraj Naidu to be UNGA President's Chef de Cabinet To ensure geographical representation, seats are allocated to regional groups. But even if candidates are running unopposed in their group, they still need to win the support of more than two-thirds of the UN General Assembly. Ghana received 185 votes, Gabon 183 votes, UAE 179 votes, Albania 175 votes and Brazil 181 votes. The Security Council is the only UN body that can make legally binding decisions like imposing sanctions and authorizing use of force. It has five permanent veto-wielding members - the United States, Britain, France, China and Russia.

Albania, Brazil, Gabon, Ghana, UAE elected to UN Security Council

On Saturday night at the Purple Pub in Ghana's capital Accra even the pandemic and an official shutdown of bars and clubs can't stop the music.

In the bustling Osu district, early revellers laze on plastic chairs emptying local beers as speakers cranked to full volume drown out their voices.&nbsp;

After midnight, the chairs empty, whether it is Sarkodie or Stonebwoy, the kings of Ghanaian Afrobeats soon have the whole street swinging.

In a music scene long ruled by giant neighbour Nigeria, Afrobeats from Ghana are now finding favour not only in Accra's clubs but in a thriving international market beyond West Africa.

"Not only is Afrobeats hyper-popular here in Ghana, it's now gaining real recognition on the international stage," says Stonebwoy in his Accra recording studio, which is lined with international accolades.

"We are seeing Afrobeats festivals appear in Europe, I am happy to see West African music go so far. I even have hardened fans in India and Bangladesh," says the singer who counts 3.6 million Instagram followers.

Afrobeats takes its name from the Afrobeat musical genre of the 1970s popularised by the music icon Fela Kuti and which exploded in Nigeria.&nbsp;

Western audiences were discovering the Afrobeats scene in 2016 thanks to the hit "One Dance", featuring Canadian superstar Drake and Nigerian Wizkid.

The tune soared in popularity to secure a place as the most played song of all time on Spotify, surpassing one billion streams.

- Nigeria's shadow -

Now, alongside Nigerian stars with millions of social media followers -- Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido -- Ghanian musicians are emerging to take their turn.

Gyakie and Joey B boast hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers while KiDi has 1.6 million, Sarkodie 4.4 million and Shatta Wale 3.2 million.&nbsp;

Shatta Wale's "Already" featuring Beyonce and Major Lazer was one of the hits of the summer of 2020, securing Ghana a place among the countries which now count on Africa's pop scene.&nbsp;

Jefferson Seneadza, co-founder of the Ghanaian music streaming platform Aftown, which aims to promote African music, has noted "a massive interest in Ghanaian music".&nbsp;

"Our music industry is finally being taken seriously," he says, saying the country can now take its talents to the international stage.

Stonebwoy's latest album, for example, has been listened to over a million times in a week on the platform.

"And a lot of those tapping came from abroad," Seneadza said.

Young singer Gyakie signed a contract with US giant Sony Music earlier this year, shortly after a delegation from the label travelled to Ghana to scout the local market.

"In Afrobeats, Ghana is now in a position to compete with Nigeria," said Jim Donnett, public relations manager of Sony Music West Africa.

"But it's healthy competition."&nbsp;

Musicians attribute this success to the mixture of genres.

"My music is Afro-dancehall influenced by Caribbean music," says Stonebwoy, a bright red cap resting on his braided hair.

"I borrow from Jamaican dancehall, reggae, and cook it all in the big pot of African music, adding the rhythms and melodies unique to the continent."

- The Highlife -

The result: contagious rhythms which, served by a powerful voice, form irresistibly catchy pieces.

But the Ghanaian Afrobeats stand out from their Nigerian big sister in one particular way: the legacy of "Highlife".&nbsp;

The genre appeared in colonised Ghana, then called Cote-de-l'Or, at the beginning of the 19th century, by adapting the traditional rhythms of the Ashanti people to Western instruments brought by the colonists.&nbsp;

It was thanks to Highlife that Ghana enjoyed its first success on the international music scene.

"By the 1970s, big Highlife groups like Osibisa were already filling entire stadiums," recalls Ghanaian-Romanian musician Wanlov the Kubolor, avant-garde cultural icon and author of an offbeat album called 'Afrobeats LOL'.

"But the recent popularity of Afrobeats is of a different nature."

Thanks to the internet, young Ghanaian artists can achieve viral success very quickly, he said.

But Ghana's scene now faces another challenge: the Covid-19 pandemic and the strict health restrictions put in place by the government since March 2020 that have been a blow to the music sector across the world.&nbsp;

The cancellations of festivals and concerts, which represent the bulk of income for African artists, have further weakened a sector where funding was already fragile.

"All eyes are on Africa right now, and we, the young Ghanaian creators, feel that it is the right time to emerge," says young talent Sofie on the sidelines of a shoot for a new video in a private villa in Accra.

"What we lack now is a real industry, structured and funded with the help of the state."

On Saturday night at the Purple Pub in Ghana's capital Accra even the pandemic and an official shutdown of bars and clubs can't stop the music. In the bustling Osu district, early revellers laze on plastic chairs emptying local beers as speakers cranked to full volume drown out their voices.

On Saturday night at the Purple Pub in Ghana's capital Accra even the pandemic and an official shutdown of bars and clubs can't stop the music. In the bustling Osu district, early revellers laze on plastic chairs emptying local beers as speakers cranked to full volume drown out their voices. After midnight, the chairs empty, whether it is Sarkodie or Stonebwoy, the kings of Ghanaian Afrobeats soon have the whole street swinging. In a music scene long ruled by giant neighbour Nigeria, Afrobeats from Ghana are now finding favour not only in Accra's clubs but in a thriving international market beyond West Africa. "Not only is Afrobeats hyper-popular here in Ghana, it's now gaining real recognition on the international stage," says Stonebwoy in his Accra recording studio, which is lined with international accolades. "We are seeing Afrobeats festivals appear in Europe, I am happy to see West African music go so far. I even have hardened fans in India and Bangladesh," says the singer who counts 3.6 million Instagram followers. Afrobeats takes its name from the Afrobeat musical genre of the 1970s popularised by the music icon Fela Kuti and which exploded in Nigeria. Western audiences were discovering the Afrobeats scene in 2016 thanks to the hit "One Dance", featuring Canadian superstar Drake and Nigerian Wizkid. The tune soared in popularity to secure a place as the most played song of all time on Spotify, surpassing one billion streams. - Nigeria's shadow - Now, alongside Nigerian stars with millions of social media followers -- Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido -- Ghanian musicians are emerging to take their turn. Gyakie and Joey B boast hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers while KiDi has 1.6 million, Sarkodie 4.4 million and Shatta Wale 3.2 million. Shatta Wale's "Already" featuring Beyonce and Major Lazer was one of the hits of the summer of 2020, securing Ghana a place among the countries which now count on Africa's pop scene. Jefferson Seneadza, co-founder of the Ghanaian music streaming platform Aftown, which aims to promote African music, has noted "a massive interest in Ghanaian music". "Our music industry is finally being taken seriously," he says, saying the country can now take its talents to the international stage. Stonebwoy's latest album, for example, has been listened to over a million times in a week on the platform. "And a lot of those tapping came from abroad," Seneadza said. Young singer Gyakie signed a contract with US giant Sony Music earlier this year, shortly after a delegation from the label travelled to Ghana to scout the local market. "In Afrobeats, Ghana is now in a position to compete with Nigeria," said Jim Donnett, public relations manager of Sony Music West Africa. "But it's healthy competition." Musicians attribute this success to the mixture of genres. "My music is Afro-dancehall influenced by Caribbean music," says Stonebwoy, a bright red cap resting on his braided hair. "I borrow from Jamaican dancehall, reggae, and cook it all in the big pot of African music, adding the rhythms and melodies unique to the continent." - The Highlife - The result: contagious rhythms which, served by a powerful voice, form irresistibly catchy pieces. But the Ghanaian Afrobeats stand out from their Nigerian big sister in one particular way: the legacy of "Highlife". The genre appeared in colonised Ghana, then called Cote-de-l'Or, at the beginning of the 19th century, by adapting the traditional rhythms of the Ashanti people to Western instruments brought by the colonists. It was thanks to Highlife that Ghana enjoyed its first success on the international music scene. "By the 1970s, big Highlife groups like Osibisa were already filling entire stadiums," recalls Ghanaian-Romanian musician Wanlov the Kubolor, avant-garde cultural icon and author of an offbeat album called 'Afrobeats LOL'. "But the recent popularity of Afrobeats is of a different nature." Thanks to the internet, young Ghanaian artists can achieve viral success very quickly, he said. But Ghana's scene now faces another challenge: the Covid-19 pandemic and the strict health restrictions put in place by the government since March 2020 that have been a blow to the music sector across the world. The cancellations of festivals and concerts, which represent the bulk of income for African artists, have further weakened a sector where funding was already fragile. "All eyes are on Africa right now, and we, the young Ghanaian creators, feel that it is the right time to emerge," says young talent Sofie on the sidelines of a shoot for a new video in a private villa in Accra. "What we lack now is a real industry, structured and funded with the help of the state."

Afrobeats put Ghana back on international music scene

Twitter&nbsp;Inc will open its first African office in Ghana, it said on Monday, as the social media company seeks to make inroads in some of the world's fastest-growing markets.

Africa is under-tapped terrain for technology firms, with internet use per population at around 39% against a world average of 59% according to web analytics firm StatCounter, but that number grows every year thanks to expanding mobile broadband networks and affordable phones.

"We must be more immersed in the rich and vibrant communities that drive the conversations taking place every day across the African continent,"&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;said in a statement.

Twitter&nbsp;trails its largest rival, Facebook Inc, which opened its first African office in Johannesburg in 2015 and plans to open a second in Lagos this year. The firm struck a deal with African telecom majors in 2020 to build one of the world's largest subsea cable networks.

Nearly 59% of African internet users had Facebook accounts as of March 2021, StatCounter figures show, compared with 11.75% who have&nbsp;Twitter.

Twitter's move was welcomed in Ghana, which has emerged as a hub for African startups alongside the continent's technology frontrunners, South Africa and Nigeria.

"This is the start of a beautiful partnership between&nbsp;Twitter&nbsp;and Ghana," Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo tweeted on Monday, saying its presence was crucial for the development of Ghana's tech sector.

Twitter Inc will open its first African office in Ghana, it said on Monday, as the social media company seeks to make inroads in some of the world's fastest-growing markets.

Twitter Inc will open its first African office in Ghana, it said on Monday, as the social media company seeks to make inroads in some of the world's fastest-growing markets. Africa is under-tapped terrain for technology firms, with internet use per population at around 39% against a world average of 59% according to web analytics firm StatCounter, but that number grows every year thanks to expanding mobile broadband networks and affordable phones. "We must be more immersed in the rich and vibrant communities that drive the conversations taking place every day across the African continent," Twitter said in a statement. Twitter trails its largest rival, Facebook Inc, which opened its first African office in Johannesburg in 2015 and plans to open a second in Lagos this year. The firm struck a deal with African telecom majors in 2020 to build one of the world's largest subsea cable networks. Nearly 59% of African internet users had Facebook accounts as of March 2021, StatCounter figures show, compared with 11.75% who have Twitter. Twitter's move was welcomed in Ghana, which has emerged as a hub for African startups alongside the continent's technology frontrunners, South Africa and Nigeria. "This is the start of a beautiful partnership between Twitter and Ghana," Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo tweeted on Monday, saying its presence was crucial for the development of Ghana's tech sector.

Twitter to open first Africa office to tap fast-growing market

The World Health Organisation's (WHO) global vaccine-sharing scheme COVAX delivered its first Covid-19 shots on Wednesday.

A flight carrying 600,000 doses of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine produced by the Serum Institute of India landed in Ghana's capital Accra on Wednesday.

The delivery comes eight months after the launch of the COVAX initiative, aimed at pooling funds from wealthier countries and non-profits to distribute vaccines equitably around the world.

The shots, part of an initial tranche for low and middle-income countries, will be used by Ghana to start a vaccination drive from March 2 that will prioritise frontline health workers and others at high risk.

Coronavirus infections have soared in Ghana to over 81,200, and 584 people have died, with nearly as many dying in the first two months of this year as in the whole of 2020.

The roll-out in Ghana is a milestone for COVAX, which is trying to narrow a politically sensitive gap between the millions being vaccinated in wealthier countries and the comparatively few who have received shots in less developed parts of the world.

It plans to deliver nearly 2 billion doses this year, including 1.8 billion to poorer countries at no cost to their governments, and to cover up to 20% of countries' populations. But it will not be sufficient for nations to reach herd immunity and effectively contain the spread of the virus.

The African Union (AU) has been trying to help its 55 member states buy more doses in a push to immunize 60% of the continent's 1.3 billion people over three years. Last week, its vaccine team said 270 million doses of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines secured for delivery this year had been taken up.

China has donated small batches of its Sinopharm vaccine to countries including Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea. And Russia has offered to supply 300 million doses of its Sputnik V vaccine to the AU scheme along with a financing package.

But many countries are largely reliant on COVAX.

On Tuesday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged wealthy nations to share vaccine doses with COVAX, saying the goal of equitable distribution was "in jeopardy".

"Today is a major first step towards realizing our shared vision of vaccine equity, but it's just the beginning," he said on Wednesday. 
He had earlier warned that so far 210 million doses of vaccine have been administered globally but half of those are in just two countries and more than 200 countries were yet to administer a single dose.

COVAX is co-led by the WHO, the GAVI vaccines alliance, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations and UNICEF.

Africa's reported COVID-19 death toll surpassed 100,000 last week, a fraction of those on other continents but rising fast amid a second wave of infections.

South Africa paused its roll-out of AstraZeneca's vaccine after preliminary trial data showed less efficacy against the 501Y.V2 coronavirus variant dominant there, but other African countries say they will use the shot.

Ghana is among six African countries that have confirmed cases of the variant.

The COVAX rollout is being considered as an inflexion point in Africa's pandemic response. But having said that, it should be noted that the West must take the blame for Africa's slow rollout.

They have stocked up on jabs -- leaving very little for the rest. Canada has bought enough doses to inoculate the population five times over.

The European Union has ordered enough for a double vaccination; so has the United States.

Such massive orders have strained the supply chain, and vaccine makers are unable to keep up.

In short, the pandemic exposed the fault lines in our world, and minorities were hit harder by the virus.

Rich countries handed out cheques, while livelihoods disappeared in poorer nations. This trend of inequity is continuing with the vaccine roll-out.

In Latin America, 1.6 doses are being given per 100 people; in the US, the number is 19; in Britain, it's 27.

Well, the virus may not discriminate -- but the vaccine does.

The World Health Organisation's (WHO) global vaccine-sharing scheme COVAX delivered its first Covid-19 shots on Wednesday. A flight carrying 600,000 doses of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine produced by the Serum Institute of India landed in Ghana's capital Accra on Wednesday.

The World Health Organisation's (WHO) global vaccine-sharing scheme COVAX delivered its first Covid-19 shots on Wednesday. A flight carrying 600,000 doses of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine produced by the Serum Institute of India landed in Ghana's capital Accra on Wednesday. The delivery comes eight months after the launch of the COVAX initiative, aimed at pooling funds from wealthier countries and non-profits to distribute vaccines equitably around the world. The shots, part of an initial tranche for low and middle-income countries, will be used by Ghana to start a vaccination drive from March 2 that will prioritise frontline health workers and others at high risk. Coronavirus infections have soared in Ghana to over 81,200, and 584 people have died, with nearly as many dying in the first two months of this year as in the whole of 2020. The roll-out in Ghana is a milestone for COVAX, which is trying to narrow a politically sensitive gap between the millions being vaccinated in wealthier countries and the comparatively few who have received shots in less developed parts of the world. It plans to deliver nearly 2 billion doses this year, including 1.8 billion to poorer countries at no cost to their governments, and to cover up to 20% of countries' populations. But it will not be sufficient for nations to reach herd immunity and effectively contain the spread of the virus. The African Union (AU) has been trying to help its 55 member states buy more doses in a push to immunize 60% of the continent's 1.3 billion people over three years. Last week, its vaccine team said 270 million doses of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines secured for delivery this year had been taken up. China has donated small batches of its Sinopharm vaccine to countries including Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea. And Russia has offered to supply 300 million doses of its Sputnik V vaccine to the AU scheme along with a financing package. But many countries are largely reliant on COVAX. On Tuesday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged wealthy nations to share vaccine doses with COVAX, saying the goal of equitable distribution was "in jeopardy". "Today is a major first step towards realizing our shared vision of vaccine equity, but it's just the beginning," he said on Wednesday. He had earlier warned that so far 210 million doses of vaccine have been administered globally but half of those are in just two countries and more than 200 countries were yet to administer a single dose. COVAX is co-led by the WHO, the GAVI vaccines alliance, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations and UNICEF. Africa's reported COVID-19 death toll surpassed 100,000 last week, a fraction of those on other continents but rising fast amid a second wave of infections. South Africa paused its roll-out of AstraZeneca's vaccine after preliminary trial data showed less efficacy against the 501Y.V2 coronavirus variant dominant there, but other African countries say they will use the shot. Ghana is among six African countries that have confirmed cases of the variant. The COVAX rollout is being considered as an inflexion point in Africa's pandemic response. But having said that, it should be noted that the West must take the blame for Africa's slow rollout. They have stocked up on jabs -- leaving very little for the rest. Canada has bought enough doses to inoculate the population five times over. The European Union has ordered enough for a double vaccination; so has the United States. Such massive orders have strained the supply chain, and vaccine makers are unable to keep up. In short, the pandemic exposed the fault lines in our world, and minorities were hit harder by the virus. Rich countries handed out cheques, while livelihoods disappeared in poorer nations. This trend of inequity is continuing with the vaccine roll-out. In Latin America, 1.6 doses are being given per 100 people; in the US, the number is 19; in Britain, it's 27. Well, the virus may not discriminate -- but the vaccine does.

COVAX delivers its first vaccine shots with shipment to Ghana

Ghana's capital Accra becomes the first to get official Made in India vaccine doses under the WHO program. Tedros Adhanom, director-general of the World Health Organization has also urged rich countries to not hoard vaccines.

WHO: Ghana becomes first country to get Made in India COVAX

Ghana is to receive Wednesday the first shipment of Covid-19 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a> from Covax, a global scheme to procure and distribute inoculations for free to poor countries, UNICEF and the World Health Organization said.

"We are pleased that Ghana has become the first country to receive the Covid-19 vaccines from the Covax facility," UNICEF, which organised the shipment from Mumbai, said in a joint statement with the WHO.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-orders-135-million-astrazeneca-doses-likely-to-drop-chinese-covid-19-vaccines-365799" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka orders 13.5 million AstraZeneca doses, likely to drop Chinese COVID-19 vaccines</a>

It said the 600,000 doses are part of an initial tranche of deliveries of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine licensed to the Serum Institute of India, "which represent part of the first wave of Covid vaccines headed to several low and middle-income countries."

The West African nation has recorded 80,759 Covid-19 cases and 582 deaths since the start of the pandemic. These figures are believed to fall short of the real toll as the number of tests is low.

Frontline workers in Ghana are meant to be the first to receive the vaccine.

Also read|&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-role-can-india-play-in-coronavirus-vaccine-inoculation-365760/amp" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-role-can-india-play-in-coronavirus-vaccine-inoculation-365760/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi_6dj3kYLvAhU38HMBHY8FCyoQFjABegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw14AEBn746UmFNlIqAquze6" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-role-can-india-play-in-coronavirus-vaccine-inoculation-365760/amp" target="_blank">What role can India play in coronavirus vaccine inoculation?</a>

"In the days ahead, frontline workers will begin to receive vaccines," UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore said.&nbsp;

"The next phase in the fight against this disease can begin – the ramping up of the largest immunization campaign in history."

Covax, led by Gavi the Vaccine Alliance, the WHO and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), said it would deliver two billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines to its members by the end of the year, including 2,412,000 doses to Ghana.

Schools in the country reopened in January after a 10-month closure, but large social gatherings are banned and land and sea borders have remained closed since March 2020.

Ghana's economic growth is expected to plummet this year to its lowest in three decades, to 0.9 percent according to the International Monetary Fund, from 6.5 percent in 2019.

Ghana is to receive Wednesday the first shipment of Covid-19 vaccines from Covax, a global scheme to procure and distribute inoculations for free to poor countries, UNICEF and the World Health Organization said.

Ghana is to receive Wednesday the first shipment of Covid-19 vaccines from Covax, a global scheme to procure and distribute inoculations for free to poor countries, UNICEF and the World Health Organization said. "We are pleased that Ghana has become the first country to receive the Covid-19 vaccines from the Covax facility," UNICEF, which organised the shipment from Mumbai, said in a joint statement with the WHO. Also read| Sri Lanka orders 13.5 million AstraZeneca doses, likely to drop Chinese COVID-19 vaccines It said the 600,000 doses are part of an initial tranche of deliveries of the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine licensed to the Serum Institute of India, "which represent part of the first wave of Covid vaccines headed to several low and middle-income countries." The West African nation has recorded 80,759 Covid-19 cases and 582 deaths since the start of the pandemic. These figures are believed to fall short of the real toll as the number of tests is low. Frontline workers in Ghana are meant to be the first to receive the vaccine. Also read| What role can India play in coronavirus vaccine inoculation? "In the days ahead, frontline workers will begin to receive vaccines," UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore said. "The next phase in the fight against this disease can begin – the ramping up of the largest immunization campaign in history." Covax, led by Gavi the Vaccine Alliance, the WHO and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), said it would deliver two billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines to its members by the end of the year, including 2,412,000 doses to Ghana. Schools in the country reopened in January after a 10-month closure, but large social gatherings are banned and land and sea borders have remained closed since March 2020. Ghana's economic growth is expected to plummet this year to its lowest in three decades, to 0.9 percent according to the International Monetary Fund, from 6.5 percent in 2019.

Ghana to receive world's first doses of free Covax vaccines

ghana

Ghana, News on Ghana, stories on Ghana, articles on Ghana, Ghana stories at Wion, Ghana news, Ghana latest news