Category: Daily Guide Network

Veteran Ghanaian diplomat, James Victor Gbeho, has died at the age of 91, having served as a diplomat for more than four decades.

James Victor Gbeho, who was born on January 12, 1935, in Keta, Volta Region, died on Saturday, June 13, 2026. He was the son of Philip Gbeho, the renowned Ghanaian composer credited with composing Ghana’s national anthem.

James Victor Gbeho served as diplomat to Ghana’s missions in China, India, Nigeria, Germany, the United Kingdom and Switzerland.

He later served as Ghana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York from 1980 to 1990, representing the country during a period of significant geopolitical change.

In 1994, he was appointed Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General to Somalia, a role that placed him at the centre of international efforts to restore stability in the Horn of Africa, and later served as ECOWAS Special Representative to Liberia following efforts to resolve the country’s civil conflict.

Under former President Jerry John Rawlings, Gbeho entered politics and served as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1997 to 2001, and also represented the Anlo Constituency in Parliament from 2001 to 2005.

Apart from serving as Foreign Affairs Minister, Victor Gbeho was later elected as President of the ECOWAS Commission in February 2010, where he worked to deepen regional integration and strengthen cooperation among member states.

Gbeho continued to serve as a foreign policy adviser to former President John Evans Atta Mills, offering guidance on regional and international affairs after serving his tenure at the ECOWAS Commission in 2012.

Health experts have urged the government to scale up and integrate newborn screening for sickle cell disease as the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention launches a new continental plan to tackle inherited blood disorders.

The coordinated regional framework on sickle cell disease was endorsed at a Technical Validation and Launch Workshop attended by health ministers, development partners, and international health agencies.

It builds on work by the American Society of Hematology’s Consortium on Newborn Screening in Africa. More than 300,000 babies are born with sickle cell disease annually in sub-Saharan Africa, with many undiagnosed or untreated.

The new strategy emphasises newborn screening, early intervention, workforce development, and sustainable financing.

Clinical Director of Hematology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dr. Maureen M. Achebe, called the launch a turning point for sickle cell care in Africa.

‘The Africa CDC has unveiled a continental plan for sickle cell disease and other inherited disorders, and this marks a turning point in the fight against one of Africa’s most severe health challenges,’ she said.

She noted it builds on a technical working group established in April 2025. Dr. Achebe pointed to lessons from CONSA, which has screened nearly 175,000 newborns across participating countries, showing that large-scale screening is feasible in African health systems.

‘They’ve all been models for different things. They haven’t necessarily done exactly the same thing but have been models in ways that sickle cell disease can successfully be addressed in different countries,’ she said.

Experts say Ghana must move from pilot and fragmented interventions to a fully integrated national programme embedded within existing healthcare structures.

Dr. Achebe said newborn screening can be incorporated into vaccination clinics and teaching hospitals rather than stand-alone programmes.

‘What there is to learn from CONSA is that it is to integrate newborn screening into healthcare systems that already exist,’ she stated. ‘Early intervention is critical, particularly in the first five years of life. Proven measures include penicillin prophylaxis, malaria prevention, routine vaccinations, and early hydroxyurea therapy.’

‘There is a stark difference between median life expectancy in high-income countries and under-5 mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. These preventative measures can prevent a significant amount of under-5 mortality,’ Dr. Achebe said.

Members of the Royal Anona family of Busua in the Western Region have warned that they will not tolerate any move that has the tendency to mar the relative peace in the Ahanta Traditional Area.

According to the family members, they are the legitimate owners of the Ahanta Paramount Stool and, therefore, want peace to prevail in the area.

They indicated that their attention has been drawn to the announcement of an alleged enstoolment of a new Ahantahene with the stool name Badu Bonsoe III.

‘We have to state categorically that the said enstoolment is null and void and has no legal effect,’ they asserted.

Addressing a press conference at the premises of the Ahanta Traditional Council at Busua, the spokesperson for the family, Daniel Kwame Blay, said the Royal Anona family of Busua has the exclusive mandate to nominate a member of the family for enstoolment as Ahantahene.

He told journalists that on Saturday, April 2, 2023, one Kwabena Antwi, a Royal from the Afamoah section of the Anona family was nominated, confirmed and outdoored as the new Ahantahene with the stool name Otumfuo Baidoo Bonsoe XVI

He succeeds the late Otumfuo Baidoo Bonsoe XV.

‘As our custom and tradition demand, both Omanpanyin and Oman Safohene, joined the enstoolment of Baidoo Bonsoe XVI.

‘A week after, he was shown to the entire Busuaman and the community center at Busua with pomp and pageantry,’ he indicated.

He revealed that all the necessary documents with regards to Otumfuo Baidoo Bonsoe XVI have already been forwarded to the Western Regional House of Chiefs for the necessary action to be taken and for onward submission to the National House of Chiefs in Kumasi.

Kwame Blay explained that whenever the Ahanta Paramount Stool becomes vacant, filling of the vacancy rotates among the Afamoah and Amanjaw sections of their great and revered stool.

He, however, stressed that the alleged Badu Bonsoe III is not a member of the Royal Anona family.

He stressed that none of the Ahanta Kings – from the first Baidoo Bonsoe to the 15th Baidoo Bonsoe came from the Akade family, from which the alleged Badu Bonsoe III belongs.

‘Why is it that the moment the alleged Badu Bonsoe III saw the police during his purported enstoolment, he had to run away and he is still hiding?’ he asked.

He said, ‘It was because he knew very well that his conduct breached the Public Order Act.’

The Paramount Queen Mother, Nana Sene Akuba IV, appealed to the security agencies to arrest anyone who would want to foment trouble in the area.

The KGL Foundation has given the Outpatient Department (OPD) of the Accra Psychiatric Hospital a massive renovation.

Following the completion of the upgrade, KGL Foundation has officially handed over the sleek, ultra-modern facility to the Accra Psychiatric Hospital-turning a once-dreary space into a sanctuary of dignity and healing.

?The extensive renovation completely overhauls the facility’s physical environment. The upgraded OPD features enhanced safety measures, modernised consulting rooms, and an inviting, patient-friendly layout designed to put visitors at ease the moment they walk through the door.

Speaking at the colourful commissioning ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of KGL Foundation, Mr. Elliot Dadey, emphasised that a hospital’s environment is just as critical as the medicine prescribed inside it.

?’The physical environment of a health facility plays a crucial role in the recovery process of patients,’ Mr. Dadey stated. He noted that the project was born out of an urgent need to spark lasting change and inspire private sector investment in mental health. ‘The upgraded facility will provide a more conducive atmosphere for treatment and care,’ he added.

?Receiving the keys to the renovated block, the Hospital Director of Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Dr. Kwadwo Marfo Obeng, lauded the KGL Foundation for honouring its commitment. He described the new OPD as a revolutionary transformation that goes far beyond brick and mortar.

?’The renovated facility has improved the hospital’s image, enhanced safety and comfort within consulting rooms, and made the institution more welcoming to patients and visitors,’ Dr. Obeng said.

?He further noted that the facelift serves as a powerful psychological tool to fight the deep-rooted societal bias against psychiatric institutions. ‘The facelift is helping to change public perceptions of mental health care and encouraging more people to seek professional support when needed,’ the Hospital Director observed.

?The commissioning ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, underscoring the national importance of the project. Among the high-profile dignitaries present were Dr. Eugene Dordoye, CEO of the Mental Health Authority; Dr. Susan Seffah, Clinical Coordinator; Dr. Peggy Asiedu Ekremet, Head of Public Relations and Deputy Clinical Coordinator; Mr. Victus Kpesese, Director of Administration at the Mental Health Authority; and Mr. Emmanuel Hanson Torde, Deputy Director of Accra Psychiatric Hospital.

?With the new facility now open, officials are optimistic that the improved ambiance will reduce patient anxiety, streamline healthcare delivery, and set a new benchmark for mental health infrastructure across Ghana.

SOUTH AFRICAN artistes, particularly musicians, are losing income as gigs across the continentget canceledamid backlash over xenophobia concerns, Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has revealed.

Kubayi said the impact on performers has come to her attention after one artist reached out to report that all her shows on the continent were canceled.

‘Many of them are seeing their gigs being canceled, so that’s another impact of the work, because they benefit quite a lot.They perform on-live performance events and everything, so they are receiving income. This is income loss for South African artistes, so the brand doesn’t get affected,’ she said.

The minister noted that her department has not been able to work closely with arts and culture stakeholders yet,but will do so to understand the full impact on artists.

She stressed that South Africa’s message to the continent is that South Africans are not xenophobic. ‘That’s part of what we are doing – to explain that South Africans are not xenophobic,South Africans are not calling for attacks. We are also saying to South Africans, let’sbe responsible.’

Kubayi added that the go focus is on illegal immigration, not on foreign nationals living legally in the country. ‘That’s why all the others are saying to us, South Africa, we understand what you are dealing with, with the basis that these are illegal people, therefore, enforce the law. And those that you have within the borders legally, please protect them like you protect south Africans.’

She concluded by calling on communities to reject vigilantism.’Hence, we are calling for vigi

lantism tobe rejected by communities for attacks on foreign nationals.’

The minister’sremarks come as diplomatic efforts continue to repair South Africa’s image abroad and protect the livelihoods of artistes who rely heavily on performances across Africa.

Football fans now have a premium viewing destination for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Kadosbee Limited and Polo Beach Club officially launched their Fan Park in Accra.

Speaking at the launch, Owner and CEO of Polo Beach Club, Kwaw Blay, said the venue’s doors will be open for all World Cup matches, with special focus on Ghana’s Black Stars fixtures.

‘As part of this experience, we have lined up a series of exciting activities and surprise packages to keep the energy high. One of such is our prediction promotion, details of which will be announced as the tournament progresses; so stay tuned,’ he said.

Kwamena Egyir Budu, Brands Manager for First National Bank Ghana, said the partnership aligns with the bank’s belief that ‘football has always been more than a sport, it is a language spoken across borders, uniting people through passion and shared moments. This partnership was built on a shared conviction: that great football deserves a great setting.’

Mr. Budu added that First National Bank customers who transact with their debit card during the tournament will earn cash-back rewards and stand a chance to win instant prizes through the bank’s ‘Get in the Game’ promotion.

On his part, Managing Director of Kadosbee Limited, Osborn Abunyah, described the launch as the start of a 39-day journey that will bring together football lovers, cultures, businesses, and communities.

‘The FIFA World Cup is more than just football. It is a celebration of passion, unity, diversity, and global connection. Through this Fan Park, we aim to create a secure and vibrant environment where expatriates, diplomats, corporate leaders, and football fans can come together to support their nations, build relationships, and celebrate culture through music, dance, food, entertainment, and shared experiences,’ he said.

Mr. Abunyah noted that Polo Beach Club will host world-class football viewing, luxury hospitality, cultural showcases, networking opportunities, and exciting activations throughout the tournament.

He thanked sponsors, partners, embassies, vendors, media, and the Kadosbee team for supporting the initiative, and welcomed guests to what he said will become ‘Accra’s Premier World Cup destination.’

Police have closed an investigation into allegations that businesswoman, Niharika Handa, and her son, Punarvasu Handa, obtained Ghanaian travel documents through false declarations, after finding no evidence of wrongdoing.

A report from the Documentation and Visa Fraud Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department, said the probe stemmed from a petition filed on September 29, 2025, by Amar Deep Sing Hari.

As part of the investigation, police requested records from the Passport Office, the National Identification Authority, the Ghana Immigration Service, the Registrar-General’s Department, and the Indian High Commission in Accra.

Investigators established that both are Indian nationals who later acquired Ghanaian citizenship through naturalisation. Police records show Niharika Handa became a Ghanaian citizen on July 8, 2022, and Punarvasu Handa on December 19, 2023.

The report stated that Niharika Handa obtained a Ghanaian passport on July 22, 2022, while Punarvasu Handa secured his on May 21, 2024. After examining the documents and records, investigators found no evidence to support the allegations and closed the case.

Reacting to the outcome, Mrs. Handa said she was grateful to investigators for their ‘thorough and impartial work’ and expressed confidence in Ghana’s justice system.

‘Out of respect for the legal process, and because related matters remain before the courts and the authorities, I do not intend to comment on those proceedings,’ she said. ‘I am content to let the proper legal channels take their course, confident that the facts will be assessed fairly and in accordance with the law.’

Mrs. Handa and her son said they will make no further public statement on any matter currently before a court or under consideration by authorities in Ghana.

Five persons sustained various degrees of injuries when three vehicles, including a fuel tanker carrying 54,000 litres of diesel, were involved in an accident at Konongo Lady Diana in the Ashanti Region last Saturday.

The vehicles involved were a MAN diesel tanker with registration number GN 4470-22, a DAF XF truck with registration number GN 1591-20, and a Toyota Matiz taxi with registration number SE 6425-14.

Personnel from the Konongo Fire Station of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), led by Leading Fireman (LFM) Siale Richard, responded swiftly to a distress call received at about 3:36 p.m.

The rescue team arrived at the scene 12 minutes later and immediately commenced rescue operations, which were completed at about 4:10 p.m.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the three vehicles collided under circumstances yet to be established. Fortunately, no deaths were recorded.

The accident left all three vehicles badly damaged. The front section of the diesel tanker was extensively damaged, while the DAF truck sustained damage on its offside. The Toyota Matiz taxi was completely wrecked.

According to the GNFS, the injured victims comprised three males and two females. Four of them had already been rescued and transported to Steward Hospital before the arrival of the fire crew.

The remaining victim was rescued by firefighters and conveyed to the same hospital in a police pickup vehicle with registration number GP 671.

In a major relief, firefighters successfully salvaged all 54,000 litres of diesel from the tanker and deployed foam concentrate to prevent a possible fire outbreak and environmental contamination.

The intervention averted what could have been a major disaster along the busy stretch.

The Ghana National Fire Service commended personnel of the Konongo Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) for assisting to secure the accident scene and ensure the smooth flow of traffic during the rescue operation.

The fire crew later returned to the station at about 6:01 p.m. after successfully bringing the situation under control.

The Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE) has announced that the 3rd Ghana International Horticulture Expo (HORTI EXPO) 2026, originally scheduled for June 11-13, 2026, has been postponed to September 3-5, 2026.

In a notice signed by the President of the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE) and Chairman of the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2026 Organising Committee, Davies Narh Korboe, the federation said the decision followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders, industry players, government institutions, development partners, exhibitors, sponsors and prospective international participants, among others.

According to the federation, it was compelled to postpone the event due to several major national programmes, international business engagements and global sporting activities scheduled during the original period, which were expected to affect stakeholder participation, media visibility and overall engagement with the event.

FAGE also noted that the revised dates would provide a more favourable window to maximise participation and ensure the success of the event.

‘The event will still be held at The Palms Convention Centre at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra,’ it stated.

The federation expressed regret for any inconvenience the postponement may cause, adding that the decision was taken in the best interest of all stakeholders and participants.

It further appealed to guests and partners to note the new dates of September 3-5, 2026, indicating that further details of the programme would be communicated to stakeholders in due course. The federation also thanked stakeholders for their continued support.

The first and second batches of this year’s Hajj have arrived at the Tamale International Airport to the waiting welcome of family members and well-wishers. The Tamale flights, seven in number, will end on June 24, 2026.

This will be followed by the nine Accra flights starting from June 18 and ending on June 24.