Category: Daily Guide Network

The rate of inflation rose for the second consecutive month in May 2026, climbing to 3.7 percent from 3.4 percent in April, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data released by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).

The year-on-year inflation rate increased by 0.3 percentage points, indicating a modest resurgence in price pressures after months of steady declines.

Addressing journalists at the release of the May CPI data, Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, explained that the latest figure means the average basket of goods and services purchased by households cost 3.7 percent more in May 2026 than in the same month last year.

The Consumer Price Index rose to 270.2 in May 2026 from 260.5 in May 2025, which reflects the increase in the general price level over the period.

Despite the recent uptick, Dr. Iddrisu described the broader inflation outlook as encouraging, noting that inflation has dropped significantly from 18.4 percent recorded in May 2025.

‘In the space of 12 months, the rate of price increases has fallen by a remarkable 14.7 percentage points. That is one of the most encouraging stories in these numbers we are releasing today,’ he said.

According to him, the sharp decline in inflation over the past year has considerably eased the burden on households that had been grappling with rising living costs.

‘The pressure that was squeezing household budgets so painfully a year ago has eased dramatically,’ he stated.

However, Dr. Iddrisu cautioned that the latest figures point to a slight return of inflationary pressures, with May recording the second monthly increase in inflation since December 2024.

‘Compared with April 2026, when inflation was 3.4 percent, the May figure of 3.7 percent represents a rise of 0.3 percentage points,’ he noted.

On a month-on-month basis, prices increased by 1.1 percent between April and May 2026, which suggested that consumers experienced moderate price increases during the period.

While acknowledging the recent rise, Dr. Iddrisu maintained that the overall trajectory of inflation remains favourable.

‘The long-term trend is firmly downward and reassuring, but in the most recent months, prices have ticked up a little. Both insights are true, and we report both because our duty is to give you the full and honest picture,’ he said.

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has condemned what he described as growing external pressure on African countries to alter their laws and cultural values as a condition for receiving development assistance and international cooperation.

Delivering the keynote address at the opening of the Fourth African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Sovereignty and Values at the Parliament House in Accra, Mr. Bagbin said the practice of tying aid, trade agreements and bilateral partnerships to the adoption of foreign legal and cultural paradigms undermines the sovereignty of African states.

He stressed that sovereignty must be understood as the inherent right of a people to determine their own social, economic and moral destiny without external coercion or ideological conditionalities.

‘In recent times, we have witnessed a troubling narrative where development assistance, trade agreements, natural resource agreements and bilateral cooperation have been made contingent upon the adoption of legal and cultural paradigms alien to our socio-cultural fabric,’ he stated.

Mr. Bagbin argued that conditioning aid on changes to domestic laws violates the principle of sovereign equality enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

‘We do not seek to dictate the internal legal frameworks of other continents, and we expect, in return, the same respect for our sovereignty,’ he said.

The Speaker maintained that African constitutions empower legislatures to preserve and promote indigenous cultural values while balancing them with modern development and fundamental human freedoms.

Citing Article 39 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, he said Parliament has a constitutional mandate to serve as a bridge between traditional heritage and modern statutory law, particularly on issues relating to the family and social values.

‘Our laws must look like the people they are written to protect. A law that does not resonate with the spirit, history and moral conscience of the citizenry is a dead law,’ he emphasised.

Mr. Bagbin further called on African legislators to remain accountable to the mandates of their electorates and ensure that national laws reflect the values and aspirations of their people.

Addressing delegates from across the continent, he urged African nations to work together to defend legislative sovereignty and resist ‘unfair external pressures.’

He noted that no African country could effectively safeguard its sovereignty in isolation and called for stronger collaboration through regional parliamentary bodies, including the Pan-African Parliament, the ECOWAS Parliament, the East African Legislative Assembly and the SADC Parliamentary Forum.

The Speaker also advocated the adoption of an African Family Values Charter to establish a common continental framework for protecting family structures and cultural values.

According to him, such a charter would help harmonise family protection laws across the continent, strengthen Africa’s collective voice and reinforce national sovereignty through an indigenous framework developed by Africans for Africans.

Mr. Bagbin said Africa’s quest for development should not come at the expense of its cultural identity, stressing that the continent could modernise and compete globally while remaining true to its traditions and values.

He urged participants to translate the resolutions of the conference into concrete legislation, budgetary commitments and effective oversight mechanisms aimed at protecting families, preserving cultural heritage and strengthening national sovereignty across Africa.

Chiefs and residents of communities hosting the Tarkwa Mine of Gold Fields Ghana Limited in the Western Region have thrown their support behind the company’s application for an extension of its mining lease, citing its significant contributions to local development and livelihoods.

The debate over the proposed 20-year extension of the Tarkwa Mine’s lease has generated considerable public discussion.

However, residents of the mine’s host communities insist that the lease should be renewed, arguing that the cessation of mining operations would pose a serious threat to local economic activity, employment and infrastructure development.

According to them, the mining company has undertaken numerous community development and infrastructure projects since commencing operations in the area, while creating both direct and indirect employment opportunities for thousands of residents and contractors.

‘We have witnessed the direct and indirect employment of thousands of local workers and contractors, which has gone a long way to improve the living standards of people in our communities and beyond,’ they stated.

The residents appealed to the government to renew Gold Fields’ Tarkwa mining lease before its expiry in April 2027.

At a joint press conference held at Huniso last Friday, the chiefs and residents unanimously endorsed the lease extension.

Speaking on behalf of the chiefs, Nana Nvida, Chief of Huniso, justified the call for the renewal, pointing to the company’s investments in critical infrastructure, including roads, schools and health facilities.

He noted that the Huniso main road, which had long been in a deplorable condition despite three previous rehabilitation attempts, is currently being reconstructed by Gold Fields.

Nana Nvida also cited the construction of an ultra-modern sports stadium in Tarkwa, major health facilities within the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality, scholarship schemes, potable water projects and support for local agribusiness and livelihood programmes.

‘We are pleading with President John Dramani Mahama and the government to listen to us and renew the lease, even up to 30 years. We are close to the company and are better placed to testify to what the Tarkwa Mine has done for our communities,’ he said.

The chief, however, urged the company to create more employment opportunities for young people to strengthen peaceful relations with host communities.

The Queenmother of Huniso, Obaahema Yaa Damoah, echoed the Chief’s sentiments and appealed to Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang to support efforts to secure the lease renewal.

The Assembly Member for the Huniso-Pepesa Electoral Area, Egya Philip, argued that many of the development projects in the host communities had been undertaken by Gold Fields rather than the Municipal Assembly.

‘Almost all the projects you find in the host communities were carried out by Gold Fields. If such a company has not breached any mining law in the country, why should it be denied a lease extension?’ he asked.

Similarly, the School Management Committee Chairman for Brahabobome, Albert Benuye, said his community had benefited immensely from the company’s operations.

‘We did not have a single school in Brahabobome until Gold Fields came and built classroom blocks, a teachers’ bungalow, an ICT laboratory and a community centre,’ he said.

He added that the company had also awarded scholarships to schoolchildren and supported community development initiatives.

‘Gold Fields has not breached any law. Let us allow them to continue their business. Government can renegotiate the terms if necessary, but it should not reject the company’s request for a lease extension,’ he added.

Meanwhile, the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation has rejected claims that it has failed to undertake meaningful corporate social responsibility projects in Tarkwa and its surrounding communities.

The Foundation maintained that its investments in roads, education, healthcare, livelihoods and social infrastructure have transformed lives across the mining enclave.

According to the Foundation, it has invested more than $110 million in development projects over the years and believes critics are overlooking visible evidence and the testimonies of beneficiaries.

‘It has come to us as quite a surprise that there are comments in the media suggesting that Gold Fields has done nothing in Tarkwa. That is not factual,’ the Foundation’s Executive Secretary, Abdel Razak Yakubu, stated.

He stressed that the company’s impact should not be assessed solely on physical infrastructure but also on the livelihoods, economic opportunities and social interventions it has created within host communities.

TikToker, Priscywan, has revealed that after years of uncensored trolling on social media for her facial features, she had to undergo facial surgery to correct the abnormalities.

Speaking on Emelia Brobbey’s ‘Okukuseku’ talk show, Priscywan stated that a beauty facial surgeon reached out to her on TikTok after observing the numerous hate coming from the comments section. ‘You see, with the contents that I produced, my face always show and there were a lot of bullying towards me, because I have a symmetrical face. So a lady DM me saying she is into facial profiling and she has witnessed the bullies and want to help. I gladly agreed provided if she will pay me and have the surgery for free, which she agreed (sic),’ she disclosed.

When asked whether she is done with surgery, Priscywan stated that she intends to have an extensive surgery in the coming days, saying, ‘What I want to achieve with my face I haven’t gotten it yet, so I have plans of undergoing surgery itself to appreciate my beauty.’

Priscywan (Priscilla Addae), known for her boldness and outspoken commentary, rose to fame by mimicking local personalities and has since expanded into hosting, acting, and discussing lifestyle, relationship, and social issues.

The 2026 Legacy Expo, formerly known as the Africa Makeup and Beauty (AMB) Fair, opened in Accra yesterday with hundreds of exhibitors and industry stakeholders participating in the event.

The three-day expo is being held at the UPSA Auditorium and will end on Friday, June 5, 2026. This year’s event is themed ’10 Years of Impact: The Legacy Era.’

More than 300 exhibitors are showcasing a wide range of products and services at the expo. Participating brands include Sora Cosmetics, Gabri, Flow 360, Makeup Kits Plus, Feel Natural, MLIT Fashion, NASPAP/AARAV, Colourbox and Frederic Patric Parfum, among others.

The opening ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including Prof. Edmund Nminyem Delle Chiir VIII, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Rabito Clinic Limited and Board Chairman of the Expo and Ghana Beauty Awards; Mohamed Hassan Kaisamba, High Commissioner of Sierra Leone to Ghana; actress Martha Ankomah; Madam Janet Sunkwa-Mills, Board Chair of the Beauty Business Chamber; Dr Mrs Juliana Akushika Andoh, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Marketing, UPSA; Sandy Osei-Agyeman, Chief Executive Officer of Slid Industries; and Engr. Dr Stephen Turkson, TVET Consultant and ASTI Council Chairman.

The expo marks 10 years of contributions to Africa’s beauty, cosmetics and wellness industry since its launch in 2016.

Organised by Makeup Ghana and Ace Group, the event has brought together leading brands, entrepreneurs, investors, creatives and policymakers from across Africa and other parts of the world. Industry professionals from countries including South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Turkey, Nigeria and India are participating.

Activities lined up for the expo include product exhibitions, business networking sessions, panel discussions, live demonstrations and startup pitch opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs.

Organisers say the event is aimed at promoting business-to-business partnerships while encouraging discussions on innovation, sustainability and growth within the beauty and wellness industry.

Senegalese-American singer and entrepreneur, Akon, has claimed that many musicians are not as wealthy as people often believe despite their fame and glamorous public image.

Speaking in an interview with Hip Hop Eye, Akon said artists are usually the last people to benefit financially in the music industry. At the same time, those working behind the scenes often earn more.

According to him, the luxurious lifestyles frequently displayed by musicians on social media and in music videos do not always reflect their financial reality.

‘In the music industry, the artist is the last to get paid. He is the broke one but he is the most famous. If you want to be broke and famous, be the artist,’ he said.

Akon explained that greater financial opportunities exist in other areas of the music business, including production, songwriting, artist management, talent representation and entertainment law.

‘But if you want to make real money, go to other sectors of the music business, like the producer, songwriter, manager, agent and attorney. There are so many areas in the entertainment field that you can really maximise,’ he added.

The singer’s comments have reignited discussions about how revenue is distributed within the music industry and the financial challenges many artists face despite achieving widespread recognition.

Hundreds of worshippers gathered at Bayview Village in Accra on Sunday, May 24, for Atarah Praise 2026. Held under the theme ‘Dalet,’ the event brought together believers for an evening of praise, worship and uplifting music.

The programme opened with an energetic performance by gospel minister, Siisi Baido, who got the audience singing and worshipping from the start.

Prophet Atarah later took the stage and introduced a new anthem for Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, ahead of the FIFA World Cup. The crowd warmly received the song. He also performed some of his popular songs, keeping the atmosphere lively and inspiring.

Award-winning gospel singer, Piesie Esther, followed with a powerful performance that blended traditional gospel music with worship. Worshippers sang and danced along throughout her set.

Veteran gospel musician, Obaapa Christy, brought the night to a memorable close. Many people remained on their feet, singing and lifting their hands in worship until the end of her performance.

As the event ended, many attendees expressed their desire for a longer programme in future editions. The success of Atarah Praise 2026 has left many worshippers looking forward to an even bigger event next year.

THE PEOPLE of Berekum last Monday thronged the Omanhene’s Palace and some principal streets of the town to welcome their new Paramount Chief, Odeafour Kyere Diabour Asante II, as he was enstooled and outdoored by the kingmakers of the traditional council.

Odeafour Kyere Diabour Asante II succeeds Daasebre Dr. Amankona Diawuo II, who passed away in 2023.

An overwhelming police presence was present both at the palace and on some of the town’s principal streets during the short and colourful ceremony. As soon as the queen mother, Nana Akosua Ameyaahene II, and council of elders (sub-chiefs) arrived, libation was poured to the ancestors.

Amidst drumming, singing and dancing, the people jubilated and hailed the new chief, saying it is the beginning of a new dawn.

A representative of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, identified only as Kyeame Bonsu, stated the reason for his presence at the Berekum Omanhene Palace. According to him, all necessary customary rites and tradition regarding choosing a rightful candidate to the Berekum throne have been performed and accepted by Manhyia.

He noted, ‘The queen mother was directed by Otumfuo to follow laid down traditions and customs of the people of Berekum to select the best candidate among the contenders to ascend the throne, saying the rightful person has been selected so today is the day to outdoor the person you have chosen for yourselves (sic).’

Holding a staff as a symbol of authority, Odeafour Kyere Diabour Asante II swore to the kingmakers and elders of the traditional council, and pledged to be of good behaviour as well as continue the good works of his predecessors. He pledged never to depart from tradition and customs of the people, emphasing that failure to abide by the rules should spell his doom (penalty).

Later in an interview with the media, Odeafour Kyere Diabour Asante II said his vision was to unite nananom for sustainable development, encourage a disciplined society, empower the youth through job creation, educational development, as well as ensure good sanitation and peaceful co-existence among all Berekum citizens.

The new Berekumhene is married with two children and is a businessman who prior to his enstoolment was domiciled in Germany.

Manchester United have taken a significant step in their summer rebuilding plans after agreeing a £35 million (pound 40.5 million) deal with Italian side Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson.

The 26-year-old is expected to undergo a medical in the coming weeks, with the transfer likely to be finalised in early July ahead of United’s return for pre-season training.

United’s move for Ederson highlights the club’s determination to strengthen their midfield options following the departure of veteran Brazilian, Casemiro. The Red Devils are expected to prioritise reinforcements in the centre of the park after focusing heavily on attacking additions during previous transfer windows.

Questions have also been raised over the future of Uruguay international, Manuel Ugarte, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 for around £50 million. His lack of involvement towards the end of last season fuelled speculation that he could leave Old Trafford before the transfer window closes in September.

Should Ugarte depart, Ederson’s arrival would leave United with a relatively youthful midfield group that includes Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and captain Bruno Fernandes, all of whom are generally deployed in more advanced roles. As a result, the club could still pursue additional midfield signings before the start of the new campaign.

United may also look within their academy ranks, with promising youngsters Tyler Fletcher and Jacob Devaney viewed as potential long-term options.

Ederson arrives with a strong reputation after impressing during his time at Atalanta. The Brazilian, who has earned three senior international caps, scored 16 goals in 180 appearances for the Serie A club and has demonstrated the versatility to operate in multiple midfield roles.

Meanwhile, United continue to monitor West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. However, no formal offer has been made, with the London club reportedly valuing the player at around £80 million.

The pursuit of Ederson signals the beginning of what could be a busy summer at Old Trafford as United seek to reshape their squad ahead of the new season.

Ghanaian media personality, Ohemaa Woyeje, has dismissed long-standing rumours of a feud with broadcaster Deloris Frimpong Manso, popularly known as Delay.

In a recent interview with Nana Romeo on Okay FM, Ohemaa Woyeje stated that ‘People claim I have a beef with Delay, but I do not have any problem with her.’ According to her, the public often tried to create the impression that they were not on good terms, but that story is not true.

Ohemaa Woyeje recalled her time working with Delay at Top Radio, describing a respectful and supportive relationship. She said they worked peacefully without any misunderstanding or bad blood during their time at the station. Ohemaa Woyeje disclosed what she believed sparked the beef rumours, saying when Delay decided to leave Top Radio, management had already been informed of her exit.

However, someone later informed management again, which prompted the station to begin preparations for a replacement. Woyeje said the station manager then approached her and asked her to take over Delay’s programme. She accepted the offer despite the pressure and expectations, settled in well, and connected with her listeners.

She noted that most listeners, except for Delay’s die-hard fans, stayed on the show after her exit.

The award-winning presenter added that after she took over the programme, some people in the entertainment industry advised her to be careful of Delay and claimed they did not know what her colleague had discussed with them. Despite those warnings, Ohemaa Woyeje insisted she never had personal issues with Delay and never saw her as an enemy.